Ardfert unveils Casement plaque

THERE is no place more devoted to conserving Casement’s memory today than Ardfert.

On Saturday morning a plaque was unveiled at the former RIC barracks where Casement was held prior to his removal to Tralee. The Ardfert Development Association project is a fitting contribution to the timeline of Casement’s final days in Ireland and it was a proud moment for those in attendance.

Local man Justin Horgan explains how a relative on his mother’s side, Martin Collins, was summoned to London in 1916 for the trial as a witness to Casement’s arrest.

“Unfortunately, as a result, Ardfert was unfairly treated after that case,” said Justin.

“No one in Ardfert knew who Casement was at the time and I suppose there was a bit of a stigma surrounding Casement and Ardfert after his death. But this was well and truly put to bed by President Michael D Higgins’ unveiling of a Casement bust in 2016 and by Saturday’s event,” he added.

Today, the historic building functions as a takeaway but patrons and visitors will now know of the building’s significance. Justin also added that the plaque is another chapter in the locality’s efforts to honour Casement whose great-grandniece recently visited the village. Luckily, Justin had the plaque in the bar and they were able to take some precious photos.

To show them the plaque was lovely and they were delighted. There’s always been a strong link with Roger’s relatives and the village, including those of Robert Monteith. We like to keep in touch and events like Sunday’s are important to the history of our village.

“We’re very proud of Casement’s association with Ardfert and it’s important for us to talk about it and remember it,” Justin concluded.

Unveiling the new Roger Casement plaque marking the site of the RIC barracks where he was held were Tina Wallace, Donal Stack, Justin Horgan, Susan Healy, Linda Baker and Jim O’Gorman.