Patriot, Thomas Kent, remembered in Castlelyons
Outside of those who signed the Proclamation and who were executed in the aftermath of the 1916 Rising, Castlelyons native, Thomas Kent, remains one of the most important figures associated with this turbulent period.
A man who dedicated his life to helping the oppressed, mainly tenant farmers, Thomas Kent was a political activist, who remained steadfast in his belief that Ireland’s union with Britain had to be broken. It was his commitment to this struggle that led to his death by firing squad in 1916. Determined to banish his memory, British authorities dumped his body in an unmarked grave, where it lay in the grounds of Cork Gaol for almost 100 years.
Thankfully, Thomas was eventually brought home to Castlelyons and it was at his final resting place that a solemn ceremony took place last Sunday.
MC for the event was Tom McCarthy (Post 25 UN Veterans, Fermoy). Special guests included Margaret O’Brien from Tallow, a grandniece of Thomas Kent. Wreaths were laid by Cllr. Frank O’Flynn, Dave Heaphy (4th Infantry Batallion) and James Ronan (Post 25). While poems of reflection were read by Eddie Foley and P.J. O’Leary. A blessing was performed by Fr. Gerard Coleman and the Last Post was sounded by Philip Dunphy Sr., with musical accompaniment from fellow members of
Fermoy Concert Band, Sam Roche and Ryan Fitzgerald. Public representatives in attendance included Cllr Sheila O’Callaghan, Cllr. William O’Leary, Cllr Deirdre O’Brien and Cllr. Frank O’Flynn.
Tom McCarthy provided a detailed account of Thomas Kent’s eventful life and tragic death. The commemoration, which followed Mass in St. Nicholas’ Church, drew a sizeable attendance - all of whom wished to pay tribute to an ordinary man, whose extraordinary bravery has ensured his memory will live on forever.