HISTORY COMES TO LIFE ON STREETS OF ENNISCORTHY
GUNSHOTS rang out in the centre of Enniscorthy last week, just as they did 103 years previously during the 1916 Rising. As is tradition, the brave actions of those who fought in the 1916 Rising and the vital role that Enniscorthy played in this pivotal moment of our history were recalled as special commemorations took over the town on Easter Monday, which included a recreation of the type of pitched battle that saw the town taken by rebels back in 1916.
The day’s events got under way at the Cathedral where Fr Odhran Furlong celebrated Mass and this was followed by a parade to Market Square where the first wreath was laid to mark the contribution of those who fought for independence. Among those taking part were an FCA Colour Party from 1st Battalion, Enniscorthy, the Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society, the UN Veterans, pikemen and St Colman’s Pipe Band from Ballindaggin, the home-place of patriot Seamus Rafter.
Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cllr Willie Kavanagh recounted the wellknown tale of how Enniscorthy was held for four days by the rebels, who flew the tricolour above the Athenaeum and would only give up their fight when they received direct confirmation from Pádraig Pearse himself.
‘Easter 1916 marked a crucial turning point in the history of our country,’ he said, before speaking of the role of local hero Seamus Rafter. ‘While Seamus didn’t live to see an end to the fight for Irish independence, his legacy lives on in the many landmarks in Enniscorthy named in his honour, including Rafter Street, Rafter Bridge, and the imposing limestone and granite statue at Abbey Square, unveiled in September 1958.’
From Market Square the parade proceeded to the Patriot monument in Abbey Square, pausing along the way for a moment’s silence outside of the historic Athenaeum. The proclamation was read aloud by Judy Heffernan, while Anthony Nolan provided a poignant backdrop on trumpet.
However, perhaps capturing the eyes and imaginations of families from the town most of all was the pitched battle that took place in Market Square, under the leadership of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society with help from re-enactors from Monasterevin and Kilkenny. There were also plenty of activities for the little ones with arts, crafts, face-painting and Easter eggs at the Athenaeum over the course of the morning. With the sun shining, there was a wonderful atmosphere around town for the event and it once again confirmed that the contribution of the men and women of Enniscorthy to Irish independence will never be forgotten.