By Dan Walsh at Ballyellis
The 225th anniversary of the Rebellion of 1798 and the 105th anniversary of the War of Independence and those who fought for freedom were jointly remembered with dignity at a large commemoration ceremony held today (Sunday) in the shadow of the 1798 Memorial at Ballyellis Cross.
Proceedings commenced at a packed Askamore Church where Mass was celebrated by Very Rev. Joseph Power, P.P., Kilrush, Askamore.
Immediately afterwards, piper John Cullen lead a pike march to the Ballyellis site and included were pike groups from Askamore-Ballyellis, Monageer, Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society and the County Carlow Flying Column.
A wreath was laid at the memorial by Charlie and Finn Kavanagh and Fr. Power prayed for the souls of all. Also present was Very Rev. Martin Casey, P.P., Carnew, Tomacork, Coolafancy and Shillelagh.
Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin, Leas-Cathaoirleach of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council thanked Thomas Kenny and his organising committee for the preparations and commended the large attendance that included groups from many parts of the county.
The presence of Minister James Browne and local Cllrs Barbara-Anne Murphy and Donal Kenny were also acknowledged.
Folklorist Michael Fortune gave a flavour of the stories and songs of ’98 with many examples relating to the North Wexford site extracted from the priceless Schools Folklore Collection of 1938 compiled by children and related by their parents and grandparents.
Historian Barry Lacey also made an informed contribution relating to some events of 1798, but he also covered aspects of the War of Independence and the impact it had on life in the community at the time.
Marcella Byrne read a poem that she composed for the bicentenary of 1798 – 25 years ago – and there was another fine poem from Marie Hennessy.
Aileen Lambert contributed two lovely songs; At Monaseed on a Summer’s Morning and The Galty Mountain Boy. Padraig Kenny recited Boolavogue and the ceremony came to a conclusion when piper John Cullen played Amhrán na bFiann.
Refreshments were provided afterwards at Kenny’s Pint Depot in Carnew.
The impressive Celtic cross on the R725 Carnew-Gorey road carries the following inscription, as Gaeilge agus as Beala; “This cross was erected to preserve and perpetuate the memory of the men of Wexford and Wicklow who defeated the Ancient Britons and other British Forces at Ballyellis June 29th 1798. Grant them, eternal rest, O Lord. Erected by the Askamore and Ballyellis ’98 Association. June 29th 1941.”
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