By Dan Walsh at Wexford Library
An exciting exhibition recalling the War of Independence and Civil War in County Wexford was officially launched by the Leas-Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Ger Carthy, in Wexford Library tonight (Thursday).
Cllr Carthy said; “I’m delighted to launch this exhibition,The War of Independence and Civil War in County Wexford here at the County Library. This local knowledge and family held records provides new evidence to add to the historical record of County Wexford. And as important, it also given us the opportunity to put on record the contribution made by families whose ancestors were directly involved in events which led to the formation of our state.”
Hazel Percival, Senior Executive Librarian, County Librarian Eileen Morrissey, who acted as master of ceremonies, addressed the large invited attendance and Barry Lacey, historian-in-charge at County Wexford Public Libraries services outlined some historical details.
This exhibition commissioned by Wexford County Council Library Service and scripted by Celestine Murphy, historian, traces the progression to this War of Independence and Civil War in County Wexford.
This exhibition charts the breakdowns that ultimately led to the outbreak of hostilities in County Wexford following the declaration of the War of Independence from January 21st, 1919, to January 11th 1921. During the truce period from July 11th, 1921, to July 28th 1922 and in the Civil War from June 28th 1922 to May 24th 1923.
In this exhibition for the first time, locally held records, medals, memorabilia, photographs and documents held by families of several of the Wexford people involved are used to tell the history of County Wexford in this period. This data was collected at community archive days held in Wexford and Gorey libraries in 2021 and 2022 where people were invited to bring in their family treasures and tell their stories.
The exhibition can be viewed daily at Wexford Library during library opening hours until Friday, March 15th. All are welcome to attend.
For further information, visit the exhibition at Wexford library or contact the Local Studies Librarian at 053 919 6330 or libraryhq@wexfordcoco.ie
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