Independence

Transcription

Independence

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Auction Tuesday 19th April 2011 at 11.00am & 6.00pm
Independence
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Established 1934
&
M
EALY'S MEALY'S
Est 1887
26 St Stephens Green
Dublin 2
(T) 353+1+6760261
(F) 353+1+6624725
M
EALY'S
Est 1887
Est 1887
ADAM’S
&
&
Established 1934
Established 1934
Mealys Auctioneers
Castlecomer
Co Kilkenny
(T) 353+56+4441229
(F) 353+56+4441627
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AUCTION
Tuesday 19th April 2011. Session I Session II
11.0oam
6.oopm
VENUE
James Adam Salerooms
26 St Stephen’s Green , Dublin 2
Ireland
SALE CODE
This sale may be referred to as 7029 in all correspondence
CATALOGUE
€20.00 or at www.adams.ie & www.mealys.com
Specialists in charge for this sale
Fonsie Mealy MRICS
Kieran O’Boyle MIAVI
Stuart Cole MRICS
George F. Mealy
VIEWING
April 16th-18th
Viewing at 26 st stephen green, Dublin 2.
Saturday Sunday Monday Commission & Telephone Bids
16th April 2.00pm - 5pm
Abigail Bernon
Liz McDonald
Telephone and Fax Numbers during viewing
[email protected]
353+1+6760261
[email protected] 353+56+4441229
(T) 353+1+6760261
(F) 353+1+6624725
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INFORMATION FOR PURCHASERS
1.
Estimates
These are shown below each lot in this sale. All amounts shown are in Euro. The figures shown are
provided merely as a guide to prospective purchasers. They are approximate prices which are
expected, are not definitive and are subject to revision.
2.
Paddle Bidding
All intending purchasers must register for a paddle number before the auction. Please allow time for
registration. Potential purchasers are recommended to register on viewing days. Paddle deposit €1.00
refundable.
3.
Payment, Delivery and Purchasers Premium
Wednesday 20th April 2011, 10.00am - 1.00pm and 2.00pm -5.00pm. Under no circumstances will delivery of
purchases be given whilst the auction is in progress. All purchases must be paid for and removed from the premises
not later than 5pm on Wednesday 20th April 2011 Auctioneers commission on purchasers is charged at the
rate of 18% (exclusive of VAT). Terms: Strictly cash, bankers draft or cheque vouched to the satisfaction of the auctioneers, prior to sale. Purchasers wishing to pay by credit card (Visa & Mastercard) may do so, however, it should
be noted that such payments will be subject to an administrative fee of 2% on the invoice total. American Express
is subject to a charge of 3.65% on the invoice total. Please contact our accounts department prior to sale with your
payment queries.
4. VAT Regulations
All lots are sold within the auctioneers VAT margin scheme. Revenue Regulations require that the buyers premium
must be invoiced at a rate which is inclusive of VAT. This is not recoverable by any VAT registered buyer.
5. Please note that imperfections are not stated.
6.
Absentee Bids
We are happy to execute absentee or written bids for bidders who are unable to attend and can arrange for bidding
to be conducted by telephone. However, these services are subject to special conditions see end of catalogue. All
arrangements for absentee bidding must be made before 5pm on the day prior to sale.
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Lot 1
Lot 5
1
Lot3
Lot 2
Lot 6
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ILLUSTRATED LONDON NEWS.
€300 - 500
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THE NATION
[1840s and 1877]
NEWSPAPERS
A collection of items relating to the independence struggle, including copies of the Daily
Mirror 1916 (trial of Roger Casement), Nationality 1917-18, Freeman’s Journal 1921
(report of Custom House attack), An Phoblacht 1927, The Irishman 1927, The Sunday
Worker 1927, The Nation 1930 etc.
As a collection, w.a.f.
€100 - 200
2
Irish Citizen.
Dublin, July 1916, Francis Sheehy Skeffington Memorial Number, with portrait.
Skeffington was co-editor and founder of the newspaper. Rare
€100 - 150
3
“Execute Irish President”
An interesting copy of the Los Angeles Evening Herald with this full width headline,
dated Wednesday May 3rd, 1916, with front page article reporting on the execution of
Rebel Leaders.
€50 - 100
Lot 4
January-June 1916.
Bound volume, morocco backed boards, spine worn with some loss but holding. Includes a report on the Easter Rising with photographs, also reports from
France, ‘The heroism of Irish soldiers fighting for the Empire’, etc. etc.
A collection of four folio volumes, bound or partly disbound, containing
respectively
- issues from 1842-3, from Vol. 1 no. 2;
- issues from 1842-3 (another set), from Vol. 1 no. 9;
- issues from 1844 and 1848;
- issues from 1877.
We have not collated these volumes, which are sold as seen, and may contain
torn pages and/or missing issues. The bindings are distressed.
€200 - 400
6
EIRE / IRELAND and SCISSORS AND PASTE,
ed. Arthur Griffith.
A folio bound volume strongly bound in cloth, morocco-backed, titled
IRELAND, containing Eire / Ireland Vol. 1 no. 1, Oct. 26 1914 to Vol. 1 no. 30,
December 4 1914, complete to date; bound with Scissors and Paste, vol. 1 no. 1,
December 12 1914, to Vol. 1 no. 22, Feb. 27 1915 but lacking no. 17, otherwise
complete to date. A few small tears.
After Eire/Ireland was suppressed, Griffith launched Scissors And Paste, which
sought to evade the censors by including only material which had already
appeared in other newspapers, selected with a sharp eye to convey a message
without direct comment. Both periodicals are scarce; this run is in good condition in spite of the missing issue.
€200 - 300
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7
WOLFE TONE WEEKLY,
1937-39
A strongly bound folio volume
containing issues from Vol. 1 no. 14, Dec. 4 1937, to Vol. 2 no.
26, Feb. 21 1939, generally in good condition. We have not collated this volume and the run is not guaranteed to be unbroken. The content is of broadly Republican interest. Covers
with some damp damage but holding firmly.
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THE UNITED IRISHMAN,
ed. Arthur Griffith, 1905-6
A strongly bound atlas folio volume, morocco backed, containing issues from No. 310 Vol. 13, Feb. 4 1905, to No. 365
Vol. 16, Feb. 24 1906, spine worn at top but generally in good
condition, a few issues lightly soiled. We have not collated this
volume and the run is not guaranteed to be unbroken.
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€300 - 500
THE GAELIC AMERICAN:
extracts
An extensive compilation of typed extracts or summaries
apparently from the files of the Gaelic American [ed. John
Devoy], in three strongly bound quarto volumes, containing
material from 1916-23, 1923-24, 1924-26 respectively. With
old library stamps.
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€100 - 200
THE BIRMINGHAM TOWER PAPERS:
extracts
An extensive compilation of typed extracts or summaries
apparently from papers in Birmingham Tower [Dublin Castle]
dealing with the affairs of the Fenians in Britain, etc., in five
strongly bound quarto volumes, with a sixth volume, bound
en suite, titled The Broy Papers, containing apparently similar
material, with TLS laid in from State Paper Office (Dublin),
1954, granting permission to consult documents under certain conditions. With old library stamps.
It appears the material was compiled by Michael J. Lennon, a
Dublin district justice from 1937 to 1957, when he resigned at
the request of the Government after criticism of remarks he
made during a case involving political offences.
€200 - 300
Republican Newspapers:
A good group of Republican Newspapers,
including Daily Sketch, for Thursday 24 August
1922 with headline ‘The Martyrdom of Michael
Collins’; a copy of The Irish World and American
Industrial Liberator, for Feb. 10th 1923, with
banner headline ‘President de Valera’s Message,’
approx. 12 issues of ‘Eire - The Irish Nation,’ a
copy of ‘Poblacht na h’Eireann - The Republic of
Ireland, Jan. 5th, 1922; varied copies of ‘Evening
Herald,’ for 1916 etc. As a lot, w.a.f. (1)
€150 - 200
Republican Newspaper
The Daily Graphic,
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No. 9930 for Wed. October 12, 1921, reporting
in print and pictures of the “Sinn Fein Delegates
at Downing Street,’ folio, orig. ptd. wrappers as
issued. Good. (1)
€70 - 100
It appears the material was compiled by Michael J. Lennon, a
Dublin district justice from 1937 to 1957, when he resigned at
the request of the Government after criticism of remarks he
made during a case involving political offences.
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15
€100 - 200
By far the most influential Nationalist periodical of its time.
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extracts
An extensive compilation of typed extracts or
summaries apparently from the files of the
United Irishman [ed. Arthur Griffith], in five
strongly bound quarto volumes, four in brown
cloth and one in green. With old library stamps.
It appears the material was compiled by Michael
J. Lennon, a Dublin district justice from 1937
to 1957, when he resigned at the request of the
Government after criticism of remarks he made
during a case involving political offences.
€100 - 200
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THE UNITED IRISHMAN:
Irish Republican & other
Newspapers:
1798 - Three copies of The English Chronicle
and Universal Evening Post, for June, September
and November, 1798, reporting on various events
during ‘The Rebellion,’ including the death
of Wolfe Tone; three copies of The Illustrated
London News, for January & February, 1847,
reporting on The Great Famine in Ireland, etc;
three copies of The Penny Illustrated Paper, 1879
- 1891, reporting Chas. Stewart Parnell; two copies of Daily Graphic, and one copy of The Daily
Mail, 1916 - 1917, relating to Troubles in Ireland;
& 8 other items sim. Approx. 19 items in all. An
interesting lot. (1)
Irish Republican Newspapers:
Newman (A.) [Herbert Moore Pim], The
Irishman, Vol. I No. 1 - Vol. 3 No. 23, incomplete, Jan. 1916 - Oct. 19, 1918, 38 issues only, 4to
& folio; also Judge (M.J.)ed. The Irish Nation,
Vol. I No. 1 - Vol. I No. 34, incomplete, 29 issues
only, June 24th 1916 - Feb. 10, 1917, folio all
loose, as issued. As a periodical, w.a.f. (1)
€140 - 200
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Republican Newspaper:
Covering The Easter Rising 1916 and its
Aftermath. A group of contemporary newspapers including “The Irish Times, “The Weekly
Irish Times,” “The Irish Independent,” “The
Freemans Journal,” approx. 17 various issues
covering the period April 26 - June 1916, some
with illus., some items cut-out, and some other
loose pages related. As a coll. of newspapers,
w.a.f. (1)
€150 - 200
€160 - 220
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Newspaper:
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[Barry, (K.) Evening Herald, Dublin, Monday
November 1st, 1920, Kevin Barry makes the
Supreme Sacrifice this Morning....,” broadsheet,
illus, some wear and loss otherwise fine. Scarce.
* Possibly the first printed National Report on
the Martyrdom of Kevin Barry. (1)
Griffith (Arthur) ed. Nationality, New Series,
vol. I, No. 1 - 52 (lacking nos. 48,49, & 50); Vol.
2, No. 1 - 52 (lacking only No.3); Vol. 3, No. 1 32, complete to date, together 136 nos. Feb. 17th,
1917 - Sept. 20 1919, all loose as issued. Good. As
a periodical, w.a.f. (1)
€70 - 90
€200 - 300
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Lot 7
Lot 11
Lot 15
Lot 8
Lot 12
Lot 16
Lot 9
Lot 10
Lot 13
Lot 14
Lot 17
Lot 18
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Hegarty (P.S.)ed. An Saoghal Gaedhealach,
The Irish World and Industrial Advocate.
Vol. I No. 1 - Vol. III No. 2, New Series. Sept.
7, 1918 - Sept. 20th, 1919. Unbroken run, all
uniform 4to, loose as issued. good. As a periodical, w.a.f. (1)
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Rare Michael Collins Memorial Number Newspaper:
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An Saorstat - The Free State, Vol. I, No. 28 Tuesday
August 29th, 1922, ‘Michael Collins Memorial
Number.’ First Edn., 8pp lg. folio, with portrait of
Collins on front cover, and many other photo illus.
Artist, a pastel head and shoulders Drawing
of Mr. W.E. Gladstone, Prime Minister,
signed and dated 1898, framed and glazed.
Fine. (1)
€80 - 100
*Because of his iconic status, and his tragic end,
this newspaper was reprinted many times, but the
present issue is the original First Edn., and is in
good condition, with just a few stains and some
edges frayed. (1)
€200 - 300
Mc Gill (C.)
€250 - 350
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Irish Republican Newspaper:
[Gwynn (D.) & Little (P.S.)]editors. New
Ireland Vol. I No. 1 - Vol. VIII No. 20, together approx. 235 no’s. (incomplete lacks approx.
18 no’s.), lg. 4to D. May 15th, 1915 - May 3rd,
1919, some illus. all orig. ptd. wrappers, as
issued. As a periodical, w.a.f. (1)
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€220 - 320
25
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Periodical / Newspaper:
Beaslai (P.) & O’Dubhghusa (S.)eds. An
tOglach, 14 Coip, on caisc 1961 - Samradh
1971, 14 vols., Vol. I No. 1 to Vol. 2 No. 2,
broadsides, D. 1961 - 1971, illus. & adverts,
bound. Good. (1)
€180 - 220
The 1916 Casualties & Heroes
Griffith (Arthur)ed. Nationality, Vol. I No. 1 - No.
11, New Series, together 11 issues D. Feb. 17th April 28, 1917, bound as one, folio cloth, mor. label,
as a periodical, w.a.f. (1)
I.N.A.V.D.F. (Irish National Aid and
Volunteers Fund), In Memoriam, aIgcuimhne na hOglach na gchre, Your Prayers we
Earnestly Requested ...., Go ndeinidh dia
Trocaire ar a n-anamnaibh, a printed card,
approx. 30cms x 16cms D. (Gaelic Press) c.
1916, framed and glazed. Rare. (1)
€80 - 120
€80 - 120
Republican Newspaper:
Eire - Ireland, Vol. I No. 1 - Vol. I No. 30, together
30 issues [All Published] lg. folio D. Oct. 26 - Dec.
4th, 1914, each issue 4pp; also bound with - Griffith
(A.)ed. Scissors and Paste, Vol. I No. 1 - Vol. I No.
22 (ex. 27), together 22 issues (lacking 5 nos), lg.
folio D. Dec. 12, 1914 - Feb. 27, 1915, all orig. ptd.
wrappers, bound as one, cloth. As a periodical,
w.a.f. (1)
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€200 - 300
In Memoriam:
A framed Memorial for the Four Courts
Martyrs, O’Connor, Mellowes, Barrett and
Mc Kelvey, a single sided card with headshot photos of each man, centred with a
poem by Rev. Father Brown, culminating
in “Executed” at Mountjoy Jail, December
8th, 1922, Ar Dheis Laimh de go Raibh
a n’Anamnaibh,” approx. 20cms x 27cms,
framed. Good. (1)
€80 - 120
22
Figgis (Darrell)ed. The Republic - An
Phoblacht, Vol. I No. 1 - Vol. I No. 14, lg.
folio, together 14 no’s. (unbroken run) June
21, 1919 - Sept. 20, 1919. All loose, as issued,
as a periodical, w.a.f. Scarce. (14)
€150 - 220
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Newspaper: Griffith (Arthur) ed.
The United Irishman,
A National Weekly Review,
2 bound vols., folio D. 1902 - 1904, [Vol. 7, No.
149 - Vol. 8, No. 200] & Vol. 11, No 253 - Vol. 12,
No. 305], light wear & foxing, otherwise good, orig.
green cloth, & gilt lettering. Fine. (2)
*The paper was originally founded and published
by John Mitchel. Arthur Griffith & William Rooney
re-introduced the publication in 1898 and it ran
only til 1906, ultimately closing due to financial
strains.
€300 - 400
30
Broadsides:
Poblacht na h-Eireann, War News No. 16,
Sunday 16th July 1922, Shooting Prisoners
Heads Leads to Mutiny, etc; together with
War News, No. 27, Monday 31st July 1922,
Lawful and Unlawful, etc. both mounted
and framed. (2)
€180 - 200
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Lot 19
Lot 20
Lot 21
Lot 22
Lot 23
Lot 24
Lot 25
Lot 26
Lot 27
Lot 28
Lot 29
Lot 30
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31
1916 Rebellion:
A large enamel Advertising Sign - Eason &
Son Ltd - Circulating Library, approx. 70cms x
102cms (27 1/2” x 44”).
*This sign was removed from Easons building
40 Lower Sackville Street, Dublin, after the 1916
Sinn Fein Rising and displays clearly the damage it received by gunfire during the Rebellion.
Rare. (1)
35
Barry (Kevin) A small Ballad Sheet
entitled “The Prison Grave of Kevin Barry,” lg.
8vo, D. (The Gaelic Press) c. 1920’s, framed and
glazed. Good.
39
€80 - 120
€250 - 350
32 Two modern Republican mirror Pictures,
After F.W. Wheatley
Irish House of Commons:
A large mezzotint engraving, “The Irish House of
Commons, 1780,” published by Wilson, Hartnell
& Co., after the original by Francis Wheatley,
approx. 60cms x 70cms (24” x 27 1/2”), with gilt
mount, and stained oak frame, v.g.; also with a
printed “Key” to the above picture, damp stained
& some dam. (2)
€450 - 550
36
With Approx. 100 Signatures from Portlaoise
Republican Prisoners 1989:
one of “James Connolly,” the other of “The
Struggle for the Freedom of Ireland,” each with
Celtic decoration, & approx. 66cms x 54cms (26”
x 24 1/2”), in gilt frames.
* The back mounting board of each inscribed
“Irish P.O.W’s, Portlaoise Gaol, 1989. Tiocfaidh
ar La & each signed by approx. 50 prisoners, one
of which was Martin Ferris (Kerry). (2)
General Maxwells Command Broadside / Poster:
40
Public Notice, Arms & Ammunition, .. Any
Member of these Organisations ... after 6th May,
will be severely dealt with J.G. Maxwell, broadside approx. 35cms x 22cms, D. (Powell Press)
1916, some creasing, framed and glazed. Good.
(1)
€300 - 400
Republican Nationalist
Propaganda:
A large photogravure collage, with oval portraits
of Joseph Devlin, M.P. & John Redmond, M.P.
with Winston Churchill, captioned underneath
‘ Let Erin Remember, Days of Old Ere Her
Faithless Sons, Betrayed Her,’ approx. 40.5cms x
50cms (16” x 19 1/2”), c. 1914 - 18.
* Possibly for Churchhill in encouraging the
sending of Irish Troops into the British war
effort. Rare. (1)
€250 - 350
€250 - 350
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33
De Valera (Eamon)
A cast concrete Profile Portrait of Eamon de
Valera, 1882 - 1975, by Forde Crafts Ltd., Co.
Wicklow, approx. 52cms x 38cms (20 1/2” x 15”),
mounted in an inset wooden frame, with green
baize background. (1)
Allen, Larkin & O’Brien:
A very attractive colour printed large Subscription
Card, highlighted in gold, printed for the Allen
Larkin & O’Brien Memorial Committee, Kilrush,
Co. Clare in the 1890’s with three portraits, and
two vignette scenes of Ireland, and a shamrock
border. This copy is unissued, approx. 35cms x
43cms (13 1/2” x 17”), framed. Scarce. (1)
€150 - 200
Stop Press, Poblacht na hEireann a group of four,
including early numbers 3 and 5 (both damaged
with text loss), and numbers 28 & 40, all framed
and glazed, as a lot, w.a.f. (4)
* Relating to the Four Courts, Harry Boland, and
other events during 1922 and the Civil War.
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€250 - 350
€200 - 300
34
Irish Civil War:
38
The Emergency 1939 - 46:
An “Seirbhis Naisiunta,” [Na Forsai Cosanta]
Medal & Oglaigh na Eireann Certificate awarded
to Lieut. Phadraig O’Siodhachain, on the 30 April
1946, signed by Sean T. O’Ceallaigh (President),
Eamon de Valera (Taoiseach) & Oscar Traynor
(Minister of Defence) framed, and glazed, a nice
set. Good. (2)
€150 - 200
Published by Haais & Lubrecht, N. York
The sunburst of Ireland,
a large 19th Century coloured print, approx.
89cms x 70cms (35” x 27 1/2”) showing portraits of Irish Leaders and scenes from Irish
history around Hibernia holding the Standard of
Emerald, c. 1870, framed. (1)
€280 - 350
42
A. Ciesli
Michael Collins in the uniform of the Commander
in Chief, O.O.C., approx. 99cms x 50cms (39” x 19
3/4”), signed, in modern gilt frame. (1)
€300 - 400
11
Lot 31
Lot 35
Lot 39
Lot 32
Lot 36
Lot 33
Lot 34
Lot 38
Lot 37
Lot 40
Lot 41
Lot 42
12
43
After WA Faget
Easter Week, 1916, “Scene in the General
Post Office, Dublin, just before it’s evacuation”
Colour reproduction print, 28 x 47cm
€100 - 150
44
Irish School, 20th Century
Easter 1916, depicting the Leaders of
the 1916 Rising, inscribed with their
names, also inscribed are the names of
“Roger Casement” and “Thomas Kent”,
the only two people outside of Dublin to
be executed for their roles in the events
of Easter Week.
Colour reproduction print, 36.5 x 51cm
Faith & Art Publishing Co. Copyright,
47
The Illustrious Sons of Ireland
19th Century coloured engraving, 53 x 65cm
€150 - 250
48
THE UNITED IRISH PATRIOTS 1798
A coloured lithograph, circa 17 x 23 ins [43 x 58
cms], in an old frame, showing the ‘patriots of
1798’ seated and standing with Robert Emmet,
Wolfe Tone, Lord Edward FitzGerald etc., in
a colonnaded assembly room, unhistorical but
attractive, possibly an American production.
€80 - 120
A poster, 18 x 12 ins [45 x 30 cms],
no date [circa 1920] appealing to ‘selfrespecting Irishmen’ for help to put an
end to ‘murders and other outrages’ by
‘those who call themselves Members of
the Irish Republican Army’, and outlining a procedure for submitting confidential information through the post
without including personal details. A
scarce poster; the text was also circulated in postcard-size.
€150 - 200
46
The Eviction.
Published in 1871 by Robinson and
Mooney N.Y.A scene from life in Ireland
in fine original colour to illustrate verses
especially written by Mrs O’Donovan
Rossa.
€300 - 400
Colour reproduction print, 72cm x 49cm
€300 - 400
52
Poster: “Join us in an Irish
Regiment”
Colour reproduction print, 77cm x 50.5cm
€300 - 400
53
49
APPEAL FOR INFORMATION
Poster: “I’ll go too! - The Real Irsh Spirit”
€300 - 400
printed in Bavaria
45
51
FIANNA FAIL
A good collection of posters and publicity material, 1940s, including
- an attractive large poster showing a ship sailing through the ‘post-war storm’, with words
‘Skipper for this storm too, Eamon de Valera’;
- a poster informing ‘Workers’ that ‘Fianna Fail is
on your side always was and always will be’;
- a general election poster 1948 naming candidates, a poster for a Cumann ceili and dance,
- a brochure reprinting Sean Lemass’s Dail speech
on the Transport Bill 1944,
- a General Election manifesto 1948
and a lithographed copy of Sean O’Sullivan’s
portrait of De Valera.
As a collection.
€600 - 800
An illuminated address
to A.R. Devlin M.P. on behalf of the Ancient
Order of Hibernians, Montreal. 41.5 x 32cm
€50 - 100
54
MICHAEL COLLINS
A well framed colour reproduction of Leo
Whelan’s portrait of Collins, circa 24 x 18 ins
[60 x 45 cms], published by Walton’s of Dublin
in 1972 to commemorate the 50th anniversary
of Collins’ death at Beal na Blath. The edition is
said to have been about 500 copies.
€200 - 300
13
Lot 43
Lot 44
Lot 48
Lot 47
Lot 51
Lot 45
Lot 52
Lot 46
Lot 49
Lot 53
Lot 54
14
55
HANDBILLS & BROADSIDES
A small collection of framed items, various sizes,
including
- “Hands Off Russia”. Certainly! But why
not Hands Off Ireland. [Issued by] Irish SelfDetermination League of Great Britain, c. 1920;
- Poblacht na hEireann. War News no. 14, 12 July
1922, minor damage;
- Cumann na Saoirse. Points for Canvassers
[Dublin printed, pro-Treaty, mid-1922]
- Sinn Fein Reorganising Committee, 4 July 1923,
printed letter over name of Eoin P. O Caoimh,
Rún. Ón. [hon.sec.];
- Join Sinn Fein. Reorganise! Reorganise! [no
printer, no date, circa 1923]
60
61
A large framed print, Michael Collins in his uniform as Commander in Chief, approx. 30cms x
20cms (12” x 8”). (1)
62
In Memoriam:
[Percy Hayes] artist, Charles Stewart Parnell, an
attractive oil, depicting numerous Irish motifs,
the sunburst, Houses of Parliament, Round
Tower, Pikes, Flags, etc, commemorating Parnell,
the Celtic Cross with original Photograph insert,
and various text, signed by the Artist, approx.
32cms x 31cms, attractive, framed and glazed.
Good. (1)
[Mac Piarais (S.)] A large oil on canvas depicting
the I.C.A. troops in parade format lead by James
Connolly outside the Liberty Hall Building,
which is draped with the banner “We Serve
neither King Nor Kaiser, but Ireland” signed
“S. Mac P.” approx. 62cms x 91 cms, slight tear,
framed. (1)
€200 - 300
65
66
€200 - 300
Two 1922 hand coloured photographic portrait
prints of Michael Collins, in General’s uniform,
and Arthur Griffith. Both 3/4 length portraits
signed ‘C & L Walsh, Dublin’ and dated ‘1922’
The Irish Citizen Army
1798: Copy - “General Order”
Re: Courts Martial, and the conduct of troops,
issued from Adjutant Generals Office, Dublin,
February 26th 1798, and signed by G. Hewit,
Adj. General, & Lieut. General Craig of Eastern
District Barracks, Dublin fol. 2pp in manuscript,
lg. single sheet, folded, 35.5cms x 50cms, (14” x 19
1/2”) framed. (1)
The Rebel Lord Mayors of Cork Photographs:
Tomas Mac Curtain, and Terence Mc Swiney, two
portrait photographs of the two Republican Lord
Mayors of Cork. Attractively framed as one. (1)
€180 - 220
Michael Collins & Arthur Griffith
€400 - 600
59
Collins (Michael)
€150 - 200
€200 - 300
58
64
€200 - 300
ST. STEPHEN’S REVIEW.
A collection of three large presentation cartoons
by Tom Merry, unframed, viz.
- Clouds / Sunshine, April 27th 1889: drawings
depicting Ireland under the Gladstonians, [18]8085, versus Ireland under the Unionists 1890
- ‘Dished Them at Last!’ April 5th 1890, cartoon
of Balfour with his Irish Land Bill;
- The First Obstacle. Balfour and his Land Bill as
a circus pony going through the hoops, April 12
1890, coloured, minor damage;
also a United Ireland cartoon supplement,
‘Shooting the Irish Rapids’.
As a collection.
Griffith (Arthur) A large sepia Photograph of
Griffith seated and posing at his desk dressed in
a suit, approx. 45 x 38cms, framed and glazed.
Good. (1)
€120 - 150
€100 - 200
56
Photograph:
The Retreat of James II in 1690
Engravings: Vlugt von James de II. uyt Ireland
naar Vrankrijk den 12 July 1690, - Fuite de
Jacques II, hors d’Irlande et sa Retraite en France
le 12 Juillet 1690. An early engraved plate, approx.
19cms x 59cms (7 1/2” x 23”); and another similar
of the Battle of the Boyne, 1690, German text,
both framed. (2)
€200 - 300
Dromcollogher County Council Election, Fellow
Electors Why Vote for Evictors, Landlords or
Grabbers ... God Save Ireland from Men like
Ievers. A large broadside poster, approx. 90cms x
58cms (35 1/2” x 2 1/2”), printed on green paper,
one side only, some faults, framed. (1)
€250 - 350
67
63
County Council Elections
Co. Limerick:
The Anglo-Irish Treaty 1921:
A framed set of three Photographic Postcards,
depicting Michael Collins T.D., President de
Valera, and a group of the “The Irish Peace
Delegates,” framed and glazed. Good. (1)
€150 - 200
15
Lot 55
Lot 59
Lot 63
Lot 56
Lot 60
Lot 64
Lot 58
Lot 62
Lot 61
Lot 65
Lot 66
16
68
Parnell (Charles Stewart)
A framed and glazed collage with
various news-cuttings about C.S. Parnell, including a head shot portrait and an original signature
dated July 31st, ‘86, approx. 36cms x 27cms, an
attractive item. Good. (1)
72
€250 - 300
R.I.C. (Royal Irish Constabulary),
an official patent Whistle, inscribed “The
Metropolitan patent - Royal Irish Constabulary,”
by J. Hudson & Co., 131 Barr Street, Birmingham,
with uniform chain attachment; together with
Reed (Sir A.) The Irish Constable’s Guide,” 8vo
D. 1901, Fourth Edn., cloth, damaged, loose, as
a lot, w.a.f. (2)
76
Fenians Raid:
A commemorative Coin to Celebrate the “1866
Invasion of Canada, near Fort Erie, Quebec,” the
obverse depicting a battle scene, surrounded by
“Fenian Raids - Raids Des Fenians,” the bottom
with a maple leaf and inscribed 1866, the reverse
with text in English & French relating to the
event, cased, unusual.
73
R.I.C.: (Royal Irish
Constabulary),
77
an R.I.C. patent Whistle (inscribed) by J. Hudson
& Co., 131 Barr Street, Birmingham, together
with three crowned harp uniform badges for cap
and shoulder / collar display, as a lot. Good. (4)
74
Sinn Fein - A commemorative sterling silver Coin
Limited Edition (1000), assayed and stamped.
Minted to commemorate the 100th Anniversary
of Sinn Fein, cased. Good. (1)
1798: A commemorative
Centenary Badge,
the circular front with crossed pikes and “1798”,
the enamel shamrock inlay with text “Who Fears
to Speak,” and “Ireland Forever”, stamped/hallmarked Birmingham 1897, a good clean
example. (1)
€80 - 100
Irish Army:
A bronze Belt Buckle, the front depicting the
Army Emblem, “Oglaigh na hireann, F.F.,” surrounded by a sunburst and moulded onto a brass
buckle. Good and unusual. (1)
€80 - 120
€60 - 90
71
A brass shamrock shaped Brooch inscribed “Irish
Free State” mounted on a pin. Unusual & Scarce.
(1)
€70 - 90
78
Coin:
Republican Prison Craft:
€120 - 150
€70 - 90
70
Two sterling silver Medals, one carved and
engraved “Deanta in Eireann,” the other with
gold shield shaped central overlay. By Repute
to have been given as prizes to Frank Mc Grath
for Sports whilst imprisoned in Belfast Gaol.
Scarce. (2)
€100 - 120
€100 - 150
69
Belfast Gaol Prison Craft:
75
World War I, 1916:
Trench Craft: a star burst shaped Cap Badge with
a central shamrock overlay, inscribed “1916”, with
pin clasps on reverse, brass, unusual. (1)
€80 - 120
Co. Cork: Prison Craft, Civil War:
A small brass circular Coin, the front crudely
engraved “To The Memory of Cathal Brugha,”
with a Celtic Cross engraved “R.I.P., 1922,” the
reverse engraved “A Souvenir from Cork Jail,
D.L.,” an unusual memento from the Civil War
in Cork. Scarce. (1)
€100 - 150
17
Lot 67
Lot 71
Lot 75
Lot 69
Lot 68
Lot 72
Lot 76
Lot 73
Lot 77
Lot 70
Lot 74
Lot 78
18
79
1916 - 1966: Golden Jubilee of the Easter Rising,
83
A fine sterling silver Commemorative medal
(approx. 2 ozs), made by O’Connor, Jewellers,
Dublin, designed with G.P.O. on front & signatures of the Seven Signatories of The Proclamation
on reverse. In orig. box. (1)
€150 - 180
Irish & National Volunteers
87
I.V. & I.N.V., a set of two Uniform Badges for
(a)”National Volunteers,” with green enamel
inlay and central shamrock and harp, the reverse
stamped P. Quinn & Co., Belfast, Reg. 642743; (b)
“I.V. (Irish Volunteers) with green enamel inlay,
initials and central harp, the reverse stamped P.
Quinn & Co., Belfast, two good clean examples.
Scarce. (2)
€300 - 400
80
81
Dublin & Waterford Regiments: Two Cap Badges,
Military:
€250 - 350
€160 - 220
€280 - 320
82
84
A solid machine turned rectangular silver
Cigarette Case,
inscribed with “P.W.” on outside and further
inscribed on gilded interior ‘Presented to
Commandant Pierce Wall by the Officers of Vth
Field Artillery Regt. on his retirement 1944.’
* The recipient was Pierce Wall of Knocknaree,
Ballymacarbery, Co. Waterford. (1)
for 50th Anniversary and Commemorative
Events relating to the Easter Rising 1916, including three small “F.F.” Badges with green, white
and gold inlay and sunburst surround, together
with two tri-colour Lapel Pins, one with “1916
Eire 1966” inscribed all brass, an unusual and
scarce collection. Good. (5)
85
1916 / 1921 Cumann na mBan Badge:
88
89
€300 - 400
86
€80 - 120
€300 - 400
1919 - 1921 W.O.I., a fine example of the rare
miniature W.O.I. / Black & Tan Medal, with
black and amber ribbon, clasp and bar. Good
Scarce. (1)
Co. Cavan: 1919 - 1921
War of Independence:
an attractive set including the W.O.I. Service
medal, with black and amber ribbon and Celtic
design clasp, together with the 50th Anniversary
/ Jubilee Medal with Multi-colour ribbon & claso,
also his Ministry of Defense issued ‘Free travel
pass’ awarded to Mr. John Tate, Tullylurkin,
Beglieve, Bailieboro, Co. Cavan. A good clean
set. (3)
€350 - 500
R.I.C. (Royal Irish
Constabulary),
an impressive and unusual Celtic Cross design
Badge, with pierced centre and crowned harp
overlay profusely decorated in Celtic scrolls and
inscribed “royal Irish Constabulary,” stamped
“B. & P.” and hall marked, silver gilt with a badge
back pin, attractive and rare. (1)
Miniature War of Independence Medal,
€700 - 1000
Attractively carved depicting the interwoven
Rifle and the letters “C na mBan” the reverse
marked “Miller, Dublin,” sterling silver, with
lapel pin, attractive. Good. (1)
Group of 4 Curragh Internment Camp Coin
Tokens, in denominations, 2/-; 1/-; 6d & 1d, in
brass etc., all dated 1940, reverse sides blank.
Unusual to get the full set. As a lot. (1)
Curragh Camp, 1940:
An attractive solid silver Medallion, cast by
Worboys Company Limited and designed by Paul
Vincze F.R.B.S., the obverse with a side profile of
P.H. Pearse, dated 1879 - 1916, the reverse with
a quote from the Proclamation, and two figures
kneeling cased and numbered 692 Series C, hall
marked. Good clean example.
* Paul Vincze was born in Hungary and has been
regarded as one of the most original influential and artistic sculptor medallists of the 20th
Century. (1)
€300 - 400
(a) “Dublin Regiment,” a pierced and circular shaped Badge, with shamrocks surround
and City Coat of Arms, capitalised with “N.V.”
(National Volunteers), (b) “Waterford Reg.,” a circular shaped Badge with shamrock surround and
County Arms, capitalised “I.N.V.” (Irish National
Volunteers), both brass, unusual Scarce. (2)
1916 - 1966: A group of various Lapel Badges,
50th Jubilee Medallion:
90
Co. Kilkenny: A War of
Independence (Black & Tan) Medal,
awarded to Mr. Thomas Maher, Dublin Road,
Kilkenny, in original box, together with two
Military Service Pension Certs. A nice Collection.
Good. (1)
€250 - 320
19
Lot 79
Lot 80
Lot 81
Lot 83
Lot 84
Lot 85
Lot 87
Lot 88
Lot 89
Lot 82
Lot 86
Lot 90
20
91
Medals: Co. Kilkenny Interest, a set of War of Independence & Jubilee Medals,
95
awarded to Edward Brennan, Kilkenny Brigade,
in original boxes with compliments slips, some
wear, otherwise a good clean set, together with
his cut throat razor. Scarce. (1)
Fianna Eireann & Family Medal Set:
War of Independence Medal awarded to James
Mc Caffery, Fianna Eireann 1917-23, together
with his (Seirbhis Naisiunta) Emergency Medal;
also his brothers St. John Ambulance Brigade
of Ireland Medal awarded “For Service” to Pte.
John Mc Caffery, together with a group photograph of the “G.S.W. Railways Ambulance
Division, Kingsbridge Station, April 1927,” and
also a G.A.A. Medal for “Juvenile Hurling” won
by Dalcassians 1920, awarded to another family
member William Mc Caffrey, as a group, w.a.f.
Unusual & Rare. (5)
96
94
97
a set of Medals awarded to Gregory Murphy, “F”
Coy, 1st Battalion, Dublin Brigade, including
his black and tan Medal, and the 1971 Jubilee
Medal, both in original boxes with ribbons and
clasps, together with the compliments slips; also
a Celtic Art Design Certificate for “Long &
Fateful Service” signed by the Chiefs in the
Battalion; together with two black and white
Group Photographs relating to Gregory Murphy,
together with his miniature hand-gun, together
as a lot, w.a.f. A nice group relating to Dublin and
the War of Independence. (5)
1916-22: A collection of four miniature brass Figures,
depicting P.H. Pearse, Eamon de Valera, Michael
Collins and also the G.P.O. (General Post Office)
Dublin, as a lot, w.a.f. attractive and Scarce. (4)
€100 - 120
A collection of 10 Irish cap badges,
in wooden display case.
€200 - 300
A commemorative ceramic jug
depicting the head and shoulders of Arthur
Griffith, transfer printed after a Hogan, Dublin
photograph on white ground and bearing the
inscription “ARTHUR GRIFFITHS 1922”, 16cm
high
€80 - 120
Co. Dublin: War of
Independence,
€600 - 900
99
100
€600 - 800
93
An attractive Cumann na nBan silver gilt rifle
badge, finely engraved, length 2 ¼ in [55 mm], in
a pouch, rare.
Provenance: Williams collection presumably
belonging to Henry Williams’ wife Agnes or his
mother.
€300 - 500
€300 - 400
92
CUMANN NA mBAN
(3)
€600 - 800
98
A collection of copper printing plates
of Republican interest, etc. Including portraits of Michael Collins, Kevin Barry, Thomas
MacDonagh, Countess Markievicz, Roger
Casement, Thomas Ashe, Padraig Pearse, also a
small version of the 1916 Proclamation, etc. As a
collection, w.a.f.
€300 - 500
awarded for first prize in gymnastics (possibly to
A.J. Whitford of Swansea for individual prize).
An attractive heavy circular silver medal, the
obverse depicting head and shoulders of a young
queen and bearing the border inscription ‘An
Bainrioghan Tailte’ and the reverse with Celtic
patterned border and the four provincial arms
surrounding a plain centre inscribed ‘Aonach
Tailteann, Baile Atha Cliath, 1928’. In original
box.
€500 - 800
Golden Jubilee Medal
Fianna Eireann:
A rare Fianna Eireann Jubilee Medal 1909 - 1959,
awarded to J. Hoey, with blue and gold ribbon,
and bar, Very Scarce.
Together with a Member badge, dated 1945 bearing signature of “J. Hoey” and his registered
number ‘14’.
Also with a certificate declaring “This is to certify
Joseph Hoey served in the War of Independence
against the British forces”.
* These medals were issued to Fianna members
who participated in the 1916 Rising and War of
Independence.
1928 Tailteann Games Medal
101
AONACH TAILTEANN 1932
An attractive circular medal on a ring, 9 ct gold,
hallmarked .375 on rear, also marked ‘IJ’ and
‘CY’, circa 1 in. diameter, bearing a relief portrait of ‘An Bainrioghain Tailte’ [The Tailteann
Queen], engraved to rear ‘Irish Dancing’.
* The Tailteann Games, previously held in the
1920s, were revived in 1932 after Fianna Fail’s
entry to government.
€300 - 500
21
Lot 93
Lot 92
Lot 91
Lot 95
Lot 96
Lot 99
Lot 97
Lot 100
Lot 94
Lot 98
Lot 101
22
103
A Black and Tan, War of
Independence medal
awarded to Margaret Campbell, Swinford, Co.
Mayo
107
€300 - 400
Royal Irish Constabulary Station Plate
A rare and original heavy hand painted metal
Royal Irish Constabulary Sign or Plate, c. 1920,
approx. 37cms x 23.5cms, decorated with harp
and surrounded by shamrocks, surmounted by
Crown, in fine condition, rare.
111
A War of Independence
‘black and tan’ medal
with ‘Comhrac’ bar, awarded to Tom Maguire,
boxed and with photo of Maguire
€300 - 500
€1000 - 1500
104
Charles Stewart Parnell medal,
with green ribbon and inscription “Ireland a
Nation”
108
€100 - 150
Ulster Volunteer Force
Collection
Comprising of an Ulster Volunteer Force Medical
and Nursing Corps Proficiency medal, attained
for proficiency in medical care of casualities of
the First World War; an Ulster Volunteer Force
Medical and Nursing Corps badge, of similar
decoration to the medal; an Ulster Volunteer
Force Hospital medal, of shield shape design and
an Ulster Volunteer Force button.
As a collection (4)
105
A Royal Irish Constabulary,
Dublin Metropolitan Police hand painted wood
ceremonial baton, with harp and crown emblem
painted in gold, red, white and green on black
ground, bearing the letters D.M.P. and numbered
‘167’, with leather wrist strap, 39.5cm long
€1000 - 1500
109
€600 - 800
112
€200 - 300
113
A ‘Visiting Medal’
to commemorate King Edward VII’s Royal Visit
in 1903 awarded to Head Constable George Ross,
55973 R.I.C. the obverse with head of King
‘War Reserve Constable’ inscribed underneath
painted harp and crown emblem in gold, red,
white and yellow on black ground and a red hand
painted verso, with stitched leather wrist strap,
38.5cm long
€400 - 600
110
A set of three ‘Visiting Medals’
to commemorated the Royal Visits to Ireland,
1900, 1903 and 1911, awarded to A.J. Crighton
R.I.C.
- Queen Victoria’s Medal to commemorate the
Royal Visit, 1900;
- King Edward VII’s Medal to commemorate the
Royal Visit, 1903;
and King George V’s Medal to commemorate the
Royal Visit 1911(3)
€700 - 1000
Padraic mac Piarais, Poet, Author and Patriot.
A medal, apparently of Italian manufacture, circa
3 cm diam., obverse with a good quality portrait
head of ‘Padraig H. Pearse 1879-1916’, reverse
with the words ‘Ireland / Unfree shall / Never
be at Peace / (from an oration) by / Padraic mac
Piarais / Poet, Author and Patriot / Commander
In Chief / of Republican Army / Easter 1916’, and
beneath in tiny letters, ‘An Iodail tir a dheanta’
(i.e. ‘Made in Italy’), with a green ribbon.
€80 - 120
€300 - 400
A Royal Irish Constabulary hand painted wood baton,
leather with silver bullion facings of consecutive
shamrocks and oval metal buckle. Rare.
Edward VII, with green ribbon.
106
19th Century Irish Lord
Lieutenant Regalia,
114
An Irish Army E.P.N.S. oval
serving dish,
engraved with ‘FF’ insignia and initials of the
Army Comrades Association (A.C.A.), 35cm
wide. The Army Comrades Association was the
original name of the National Guard, it was
formed in February 1932 and changed its name
in July 1933, so presumably this item dates from
around this time.
€70 - 100
23
Lot 103
Lot 107
Lot 111
Lot 104
Lot 106
Lot 105
Lot 108
Lot 110
Lot 109
Lot 112
Lot 113
Lot 114
24
116
Prison Craft: Sean South &
Fergal Hanlon,
a carved wooden shield shaped Commemorative
Plaque from Portlaoise Jail 1975, painted with the
tri-colour, provincial arms, and scrolling shamrocks, the centre cut-out and a memorial card
of Sean South & Fergal O’Hanluin inserted, the
back with 26 inmates signatures. Good. (1)
119
A folding mahogany campaign table,
123
the top decorated with harp and shamrock,
painted in (faded) green, gold and orange, 73cm
high, 61cm wide
with engravings of foliage and text “We Will Not
Have Home Rule.” Good condition and clean
example. (1)
€300 - 500
€120 - 180
€100 - 150
124
120
An Irish Army cap
worn by Liam Neeson in the Film Michael
Collins
Provenance: Given to the present owner by Liam
Neeson after filming
€400 - 500
117
1920’s Irish Prison Craft:
A rectangular carved wooden frame, depicting
various Irish motifs, Celtic harp, pikes, flags etc.,
carved at base “Tintown”, with a central hollow
for a picture etc. Unusual & attractive. (1)
121
€80 - 120
1798 Centenary:
A circular small wall plaque inscribed and
depicting “Wolfe Tone” signed on reverse “Tivy,
Dublin,” some damage, otherwise unusual and
rare. (1)
€60 - 90
122
118
Redmond (W.A.)
A good old expanding leather Briefcase, inscribed
in pen in two places Capt. W.A. Redmond, M.P.
Irish Guards, the lock forced open but present,
some wear; also copy of an original Telegraph to
Capt. Redmond M.P., dated 8 Oct. [19]18, loosely
inserted. (2)
€150 - 200
Home Rule: A contemporary and commemorative glass Wine Goblet,
‘Its A Long Long Way to Tipperary’
A group of items, including the original music
sheet for the song “Its a Long Long Way to
Tipperary,” written and composed by Jack Judge
and Harry Williams, 6pp. folio with port. of
King; a sponge decorated porcelain Bowl with
sim. inscription, some damage; and a similar
square silk Handkerchief, faded. As a lot. (3)
* Made famous by the Connaught Rangers when
they marched out of Bologna at the start of the
First World War singing an unknown song,
‘Tipperary,’ which a newsman reported, and
which then went round the world as the song of
the war.
€150 - 200
125
Irish Songs of the Rebellion
The Rising of the Moon, Irish Songs of the
Rebellion. This L.P. recording by The Clancy’s &
Tommy Maken was made by Tradition Records
in New York City, c. 1959. The original sleeve
here present, & in fine condition, was designed
by Louis le Brocquy.
1916 Rising:
Jacobs Factory - an unusual electrical Detonator,
similar to those used by the rebel forces in the
1916 Rebellion, the glass front with brass surround, on a hinged opening, capitalised by a
support hook and wire connectors, opening to
reveal the resistance of each circuit on a worn slip
of paper, as is. Unusual and scarce.
* Taken from Jacobs Factory in the 1960’s from
the roof (the “Snipers” site) similar to the example in Collins Barracks, National Museum.
* Letter of Provenance Available. (1)
€250 - 350
€80 - 120
126
A late 19th Century pin-fire Rifle,
with steel ram rod, shaped wooden stock and
ivory escutcheons, barrel approx. 84cms (33”)
long. (1)
€100 - 150
25
Lot 116
Lot 119
Lot 123
Lot 118
Lot 117
Lot 120
Lot 124
Lot 121
Lot 125
Lot 122
Lot 126
26
127
1798 Centenary: A blackened “Shillelagh”
designed for the hundredth Anniversary
Celebrations, the club face with a carved motif of
a pike and “98”, an unusual memento. Good. (1)
131
€80 - 120
1798: Co. Kilkenny Interest, a military Cannon Ball
135
rusted and worn, recovered from a thatched
roof, in Crettyard, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny
in the 1960’s, reputed to have been used in the
1798 insurrection in Castlecomer. Unusual &
Scarce. (1)
€150 - 200
[Belfast Gaol] Prison Craft:
A rare and unusual Ball made from twine to
resemble a Sliothar or Handball, for use in the
prison yards during the period post the 1916
Rising, hand crafted by Frank Mc Grath. Rare.
(1)
Provenance: Mr. Frank Mc Grath, Nenagh, Co.
Tipperary. (O.C. North Tipperary Brigade, judge,
G.A.A. Player & Manager).
€80 - 120
128
1798, Co. Donegal: An attractive 1796 pattern Sword
, Militia issue, with steel scabbard and ring
hooks, the wooden handle with steel protector,
the hilt engraved “B” and the blade stamped “3”
with a crown capital, a good clean example of a
1798 Militia Sword. Scarce. (1)
132
W.W. 1 Artefacts:
Two hand Grenades, one cone shaped design “No.
5 Mk1, 7/15, Birmingham,” decommissioned with
original pin; together with a smaller acorn shaped
launch grenade, as a lot, w.a.f. Unusual. (2)
136
€100 - 150
€300 - 400
Co. Wexford Interest,
1916 Rebellion Artefact’s: An unusual set of
four mounted Bullet Cartridges each engraved
“Riverchapel” “J.T.R.”, “1916” and “I.R.A.”, and
nailed to a piece of wood. An unusual memento
from the 1916 Rising in Wexford. Good. (1)
€150 - 200
129
East Cork, 1798
A set of two original forge made Fighting
Implements from 1798, one a hook shaped / sickle
weapon, the other a pike with a small hook, both
reputed to have been used in Castlemartyr, East
cork during the ‘98 Insurrection, some rusting,
otherwise, two good examples. Scarce. (2)
133
R.I.C. (Royal Irish
Constabulary), a pair of steel hand cuffs
issued to R.I.C. Officers, (British made), stamped
“HIATT - 3”, with original numbered key “165”
some wear, otherwise good. (1)
137
€300 - 400
€180 - 220
World War I:
An attractive Presentation brass Bugle, inscribed
Presented by Parish & Heimbecher Ltd, 1916, by
Whaley Royce & Co. Limited, Makers Toronto,
1915, surmounted by a crest, some wear. Unusual
and Scarce. (1)
€120 - 180
130
Co. Wexford, 1798:
An original forge made hook fighting implement fro 1798, reputed to have been used at
Horetown, Foulkmills, Co. Wexford, during the
‘98 Insurrection the “L” shaped top with thin
base, some rusting, otherwise a good example.
Scarce. (1)
€120 - 150
134
Sinn Fein Courts:
Co. Tipperary, an Official “Sinn Fein Court,”
Judges Gavel, the wooden gavel with long handle
and cylindrical capital or hammer. Unusual &
Scarce. (1)
Provenance: Frank Mc Grath, Nenagh, Co.
Tipperary (O.C. North Tipperary Brigade, Judge,
G.A.A. Player and Manager).
€150 - 200
138
W.W.1 Artefact:
A large army issue “Machete” in original scabbard, with a snakeskin pattern handle, and belt
holder on scabbard, stamped “F.I.” some wear,
blade greased and protected. Good clean example. (1)
€180 - 220
27
Lot 127
Lot 128
Lot 129
Lot 130
Lot 131
Lot 132
Lot 133
Lot 134
Lot 135
Lot 136
Lot 137
Lot 138
28
140
W.O.I. (War of Independence),
145
two large Army Issue Bayonets, with wooden handle and rifle connectors,
(one in leather scabbard), both worn and rusted. Scarce. (2)
* Reputed to have been used in the War of Independence during 1919 - 1921
in the Kilkenny Area.
€200 - 300
Cavan Civil War Tri-colour
Co. Cavan: An Irish Civil War Tri-colour, stitched and made of poplin
material, designed and made by A. Rice & Son, stamped with the “F.F.”
logo and “Cavan” approx. 32 1/2” x 72”, some wear, otherwise good
example.
* Reputed to have flown at O’Neill Barracks during the Civil War 1922
- 23. (1)
€400 - 600
141
1798: A forged made Pike shaped Bayonet,
with a looped connection end and cylindrical attachment, rusted and worn.
Scarce.
Provenance: Ferns, Co. Wexford. (1)
146
€150 - 200
S.T. O’Kelly & W.T. Cosgrave’s Presidential Flags
Two attractive Car Pendants / Flags for both Presidents S.T. O’Kelly and
W.T. Cosgrave, each with the emblem of a harp, with Celtic design on
royal blue background, each hand sewn and approx. 9” x 17 1/2” (23cms
x 44cms), one in poplin material, the other cotton, some wear, otherwise
two scarce and unusual mementos.
* Both Flags are reputed to have been used by the Presidents on their State
Cars, given as gifts and hence by descent to the present owner. (2)
€400 - 500
142
Cumann na mBan Despatch Belt
A handmade broad leather Belt, with pouches, possibly for carrying despatches or ammunition. (1)
Provenance: Annie Seville, Talbot Street, Dublin.
147
€150 - 200
1798: An 1898 Commemorative silk Handkerchief,
each corner depicting the leaders Wolfe Tone, Mc Cracken, Fitzgerald
& Emmet, the centre with crossed pikes, inter locking shamrocks surmounted by a harp, and the slogan “Remember ‘98”. Good clean example.
(1)
€80 - 100
143
Irish Army (Oglaigh na
hEireann),
148
a good “Free State” leather Officer’s Sam Brown Belt, and leather Holster, all
with brass hooks and buckles and whistle. Good clean example. (1)
€200 - 300
144
Irish Army:
A collection of various leather accoutrements for an Irish Army Uniform
(mounted troop), including Sam Brown Belt, gun Holster, Belt Pouch, and
Leggans, belonging to Sgt. Patrick Dooling of Co. Kerry. As a lot. (1)
€140 - 200
1798: A pair of miniature Flags,
designed for the Centenary Celebrations, both green and depicting the
harp, flanked by a winged Maiden above interwoven shamrocks and the
slogan “Erin go Bragh,” on wooden sticks, an attractive pair, together
with a similar miniature. Good. (3)
€160 - 200
149
World War II & Curragh Camp:
A group of seven hand crafted Dolls, depicting a Jester, a Young Child,
and “Bavarian” / “German” Folk in national attire. Unusual & Scarce.
(7)
* Given to Mrs. Peg Harrington, who was an Irish Army Nurse based in
the Curragh during the Emergency. During the war Peg was presented
with the dolls by their makers, grateful German Kriegsmarine Prisoners
interned since 1943, and taken care by her. They were the crew of the
German Narvik Class destroyer Z27 which was sunk together with its
escort by the British Navy on the 29th December 1943.
€250 - 350
29
Lot 140
Lot 141
Lot 142
Lot 143
Lot 144
Lot 145
Lot 146
Lot 147
Lot 148
Lot 149
30
COLLECTION OF GERARD CROFTS [1888-1934]
Gerard Crofts was one of a small group of musicians and lyricists who made a huge contribution to the independence movement in the early years of the last century. Crofts was a poet
and a singer, described in his prime as ‘a blue-eyed fair-haired Orpheus’. He had a fine tenor
voice, and was a favourite performer in patriotic concerts. His brother Joseph was a composer,
pianist and arranger; their friends included Peadar Kearney, writer of ‘A Soldier’s Song’, the
composer Cathal Mac Dubhghaill and the publishers Martin Walton and Joe Stanley. They
wrote and sang the tunes and songs, gay, witty, poignant and patriotic, that carried the
message of independence and love of Ireland to concerts and get-togethers all around the
country.
Gerard Crofts came of a long-established Dublin family, with a shop in Capel St. His father
was reputedly a Fenian in 1867; he enrolled in the service of the Pope and fought at the siege
of Ancona. Gerard joined the Irish Volunteers in 1914; he and Peadar Kearney both served
in Dublin in Easter Week. His personal friends included Sean Mac Diarmada and Eamonn
Ceannt among the executed leaders, and also Countess Markiewicz.
Crofts had a painful skin disease which affected his hands and prevented him from carrying
arms, but he served in the GPO and the Imperial Hotel with Commdt. Brennan-Whitmore,
and in the final retreat to Moore St. He was court-martialled and sentenced to ten years
imprisonment, reduced to five. When Larry Ginnell MP raised his case in the House of
Commons, asking if he was convicted of anything more than singing patriotic songs, the
Secretary for War replied that ‘the evidence shows that Gerard Crofts .. was taken from the
cellar of a house with a number of armed men who had been firing at the troops.’
Crofts was sent to Dartmoor and Lewes. On his release in mid-1917 he needed prolonged
hospital treatment, and his health was delicate thereafter. He remained an active Republican
and was again imprisoned; material in this archive indicates some clandestine involvement
with Michael Collins in 1920. He continued to perform at concerts and functions of all kinds,
made a number of recordings and sang on radio in Ireland and in Germany. He died in 1934,
still in his forties.
The following lots are from the family collection, handed down by inheritance.
150
CONSTANCE COUNTESS MARKIEWICZ [1868-1927]
‘They did not see Thy Face’
A finely calligraphed poem by Dora Sigerson Shorter, four stanzas in red and black ink,
within an attractive watercolour border in the National colours, enclosing a drawing below
the poem showing Kathleen Ni Houlihan bending over a dead or wounded hero. 14 x 10 ins
[35 x 25 cms].
Mounted with an autograph inscription at foot ‘To Gerald Crofts / Poem by Dora Sigerson
Shorter / A rather late in the day wedding gift to one of Ireland’s brave soldiers / from
Constance de Markiewicz’, and with a manuscript note at head, ‘Painted by Countess
Markiewicz in Aylesbury Prison 1917’, signed Gerard Crofts.
A most attractive item. Countess Markiewicz’ ‘A Battle Hymn’ was often sung by Gerard
Crofts at Republican gatherings.
Lot 150
Provenance: Crofts Collection, By family descent
€3000 - 4000
151
HARRY AARON KERNOFF RHA [1900-1974]
Portrait of Gerard Crofts, half length
Coloured pastels on brown paper, signed KERNOFF ‘29
27 x 20 ins [68 x 51 cms]
Provenance: Crofts Collection, by family descent
€1000 - 1500
152
HARRY AARON KERNOFF RHA [1900-1974]
Portrait of Gerard Crofts, profile
Soft pencil, signed H.A. Kernoff ‘29
12 ½ ins x 9 ½ ins [32 x 24 cms]
€400 - 600
153
A collection of four autograph signed letters on prison
notepaper, one on a fragment, three dated April-May
1917, to his friend Margaret O’Callaghan [later his wife],
written from Lewes Jail, discussing various personal
matters, mutual friends etc., the letter dated 13 May
mentioning Tom Ashe and Liam Tobin, the letter dated
23 May announcing his imminent removal to a Dublin
hospital.
With a pencilled letter [incomplete], probably also from
Crofts, from Wandsworth Detention Barracks [1916],
thanking the recipient for ‘accompanying us to the
boat’, conditions here very bad compared to Richmond
[Barracks], hundreds of convicts here which include
German spies I believe, so many things to see on way
to boat that I couldn’t scrutinise to my satisfaction the
damage in the streets, etc.
[5]
€500 - 600
154
31
GERARD CROFTS
Lot 151
Lot 152
Lot 153
CONSTANCE COUNTESS MARKIEWICZ
[1868-1927]
An original photographic print, 5 ½ x 3 ¾ ins [14 x 10
cms] showing the Countess half length in her Citizen
Army uniform, boldly signed ‘Constance de Markiewicz’
and dated 7.10.21, mounted on brown board, by Poole of
Waterford.
An unfamiliar and most attractive photograph.
Provenance: Crofts collection, by family descent.
€500 - 600
155
CONSTANCE COUNTESS MARKIEWICZ
[1868-1927]
Autograph signed letter to Gerard Crofts, on official
Internment Camp notepaper, undated, from N.D.U.
[North Dublin Union], enclosing payment for ‘Brs [brochures?] I took for your brother’s concert’, enquiring
after his brother and wife, with good wishes for Xmas,
signed ‘Do chara i gCúis Phoblacht na hEireann /
Constance de Markiewicz’, signed again at foot. [Crofts’
brother Joseph was a composer and arranger].
With a printed sheet bearing the words and music of
Countess Markiewicz’ ‘Hymn on the Battlefield’, as
sung by Mr. Gerard Crofts; and a brochure appealing for funds for the Countess Markiewicz Memorial
Committee, no date (1930s?), Three Candles printed,
Committee includes Gerard Crofts.
Provenance: Crofts collection, by family descent
[3]
€400 - 600
Lot 154
Lot 155
32
156
GERARD CROFTS
A copy of ‘Le Chien du Capitaine’ by Louis Enault, 1914, with signature of Gerard Crofts, q.93, 19.4.17,
Lewes Prison, and inscription ‘To Margaret O’Callaghan [later his wife] as a little token of gratitude’; the
book containing signatures in the margins of many other Republican prisoners at Lewes Jail, including
Eoin MacNeill, Brian O Maoildhia (Co. Galway), Padraig Ua Fathaigh, William P. Partridge, Countess
Markiewicz (p. 12), Tommie Furey, Colm O Gaora, Diarmuid Ua Loingsigh, Aibhistin de Staic, Sean
Mac an tSaoi [McEntee], Deasmumhan Mac Gearailt [Desmond FitzGerald], Henri Ua Beollain [Harry
Boland], Eamon de Valera [p. 95], , Roibard O Breandain [Robert Brennan], ‘Patsy Patrick’ [Sean
Etchingham] with a poem, Piaras Beaslai, Peadar MacFhlannchadha [Clancy], Prionsias O Fathaigh
[Frank Fahy], Fionan O Loingsigh [Lynch], Seosamh Mac Aonghusa [Joe McGuinness], Liam Toibin,
Pilib Mac Cosgair, Liam T. Mac Cosgair [Cosgrave], Seoiorse O Pluingceid, Eoin O Pluinceid, and many
others, most with their prison numbers and details of sentences, many with a later inscription ‘R.I.P.’.
With an original poem on p. 130 by ‘q.90’ [Harry Boland], saluting Gerard Crofts as ‘a blue eyed fair
haired Orpheus’ sent by the God of Song, to sing the songs of Innisfail and ‘cheer the weary hours of
night ‘, and another on p. 175 signed R. O’B. [Robert Brennan], ending ‘Your silvery tongue shall hail
our Queen / The day we crown our Dark Rosaleen.’ Brennan had a cell just over Crofts’ in Lewes; in his
memoir ‘Allegiance’ he describes how ‘every night he would give us a few songs from his vast repertoire.
His voice was never very powerful but he was a real artist, and could make any and every old song sound
beautiful’.
A superb collection, one of the best we have seen, with well over 100 names including many rare signatures.
Provenance: Crofts collection, by descent.
Lot 157
Lot 156
€1000 - 1500
157
JOHN [SEAN] McENTEE
Autograph signed note to Gerard Crofts dated Easter 1917 including a short poem titled ‘For an
Anniversary’. ‘Please accept this as a little memento of our association together. It first began on the
Wednesday of glorious Easter Week. It is interrupted now by the happy circumstance of your release; to
be renewed I hope under even happier circumstances later.’ With a plain envelope.
Sean McEntee, from Belfast, took part in the Rising with Crofts under Brennan-Whitmore’s command,
was sentenced to death (commuted) and imprisoned in Lewes and elsewhere. Later he was a Fianna Fail
Minister for many years.
€200 - 300
158
GERARD CROFTS & MICHAEL COLLINS [1890-1922]
A pencilled note on an envelope dated 14.1.20, ‘A chara / Would it be advisable for me to attend to customers by day at 82 Camden St / from G. Crofts’, with the reply in ink in Collins’ hand, ‘Practically quite
safe. The operation was a military one and so far as I know the police have received no instructions to
arrest in these cases. / Mícheál’, and with Collins’ date-stamp 16 Feb 1920.
The Crofts family shop was at 82 Camden Street; presumably it was raided by the military. Perhaps it
had been used for meetings, or to store materials for Collins, who used many such safe-houses.
Lot 158
€600 - 800
159
EOIN UA DUBHTHAIGH [O’DUFFY], Chief of Staff [Free State Army].
Typed letter with stamped signature, from GHQ, Dublin, 10 July 1922, to Gerald B. Crofts, 82 Camden
Street. ‘I regret exceedingly that you should have been placed under the indignity of having your
premises raided .. I am having the matter investigated. I fully realise what you have suffered in the
interests of our country, and am convinced that what you say is true, namely, that soldiers both of the
Free State and Executive, if in want or wounded, would receive succour from you.’
€200 - 300
Lot 159
160
33
[GERARD CROFTS]
A good collection of letters and notes to or concerning Crofts, including
- H.M. Prison, Dartmoor, 3 July 1916. Official reply to J.M. Crofts of 82 Camden St., Dublin [Gerard’s brother], stating that
Gerard Crofts’ general health is excellent. ‘He remains in the hospital where efforts are being made to cure his hands - they
are already much improved’. Signed with initials by Medical Officer and Governor.
- William Partridge. Autograph note signed ‘Bill’, undated, ‘delighted if you could look me up .. I got things humming after
my release, they will all be out soon now please God. Glad to hear of your recovery. I am worth two dead yet.’
With a note signed by Crofts, ‘The above was sent to me shortly before his death.’
Partridge was a leading trade unionist and Citizen Army member, who fought at the College of Surgeons, and was imprisoned with Crofts after the Rising. He died in July 1917.
- Governor, H.M. Prison, Mountjoy, TLS on official paper, 21 April 1920, mentioning ‘watch and chain and boots left here’,
with a manuscript note at foot, ‘I was glad to get your letter of appreciation because we all try to carry out our duties in as
kindly a manner as possible, & are correspondingly pleased if our efforts are successful.’
- Frances ní Shúilleabháin, Donnybrook, ALS, 19 January 1925, ‘We were listening to your records last night at the V. Lodge,
and when we had heard ‘Sal Og Ruadh’ six or seven times, his Excellency said you had certainly earned a fee! He asked me to
give you enclosed with his good wishes.’ Presumably ‘V. Lodge’ is the Vice Regal Lodge, and ‘His Excellency’ the Governor
General, Tim Healy. An unusual testimonial.
- C. Despard, Roebuck House, Clonskeagh, 17 August 1929. Autograph signed note enclosing notice of ‘a little Garden Party
of our League’ [probably the Women Prisoners’ Defence League; Roebuck House was Maud Gonne’s residence].
- Maud Gonne MacBride. TL (carbon copy), undated, on notepaper of Womens Prisoners Defence League, asking for help
with concerts to raise funds for the League’s work.
- Prionnsias O Riain [Frank Ryan], ALS on notepaper of The Republican Press, 9.1.30, thanking Crofts for an article, ‘your
appreciation is by far the most complete and sincere of all that have appeared’ [an appreciation of the musician Arthur
Darley].- and various others, one from a Chinese lady (whose signature also appears in Crofts’ Lewes autograph-collection).
[a collection]
Lot 160
€500 - 600
161
MOUNTJOY HUNGER STRIKE
October 1919
A mounted photograph captioned as above, approx 6 x 8 ins [15 x 20 cms], by Keogh Bros. of Dublin, showing eleven men
seated and standing outside a building. The third man from left in middle row may be Gerard Crofts.
Dorothy MacArdle’s The Irish Republic does not record this hunger strike.
Provenance: Crofts collection, by descent
Lot 161
€200 - 300
162
POETRY BY GERARD CROFTS
A morocco notebook titled ‘Verse and the Reverse, by Gerard B. Crofts’, dedicated to ‘Sheela’ [probably Sheela Trench], containing carefully written fair copies of about 25 original poems and a few recitations, including some written ‘on my slate in
Dartmoor’ and others written in Lewes Jail, with some earlier work. Laid in is a photograph of a young boy, by Gromann
of Dublin, possibly Gerard as a boy.
With a sheaf of about 15 manuscript poems on loose leaves, titled ‘Poems / To the Leprecaun from the Sidhe’, in Crofts’
hand and including a final poem signed by Crofts.
Lot 162
€400 - 600
163
JOSEPH CROFTS
A manuscript music score to the poem ‘The Cross Against the Sky’ by Gerard Crofts, the music by Joseph Crofts, inscribed
‘To dear Gerard / from / his loving brother / Joe / 8.9.34 [two months before his death].
Music score (piano and voice), 10 pp quarto, with typescript text laid in.
With a long ALS from Joseph Crofts to Maighread [O’Callaghan], undated (before her marriage to Gerard).
(2)
Provenance: Crofts collection, by family descent.
€100 - 200
Lot 163
34
164
EAMON DE VALERA
A very good ALS to Mrs. Crofts, 26.xi.34, 2 pp, on notepaper of Department of the President
[of the Executive Council], conveying his sympathy her bereavement. ‘I had a very good
regard for Gerard whose nobility of character I discovered in the intimacy of our prison life
in Dartmoor and Lewes. I felt deeply for him in his suffering. I intended paying him another
visit on my return from Geneva and am very sorry I did not again see him before he left us.’
With a good signature.
168
€600 - 800
165
169
€500 - 600
166
170
€200 - 300
167
CROFTS FAMILY
A collection of documents and photographs including an old family photograph (fold
marks), a studio photograph probably of Gerard as a young man, Octova Studios, Dublin;
two TLS and a typed letter of appointment to Margaret Crofts concerning her employment
in the Civil Service, 1922 and 1924; TLS from Dept. of Defence to Gerard Crofts, January
1929, concerning his claim under the Army Pensions Act; a blank application form addressed
to him under the Military Service Pensions Act 1934 [the year of his death]; an invitation to
an Old IRA reunion, 1934; some snapshots; some manuscript poetry; some press cuttings of
family interest; some postcards; etc.
As a collection.
€200 - 250
THOMAS MacDONAGH
Literature in Ireland, Studies Irish & Anglo-Irish
Dublin 1916 [reprint], orig. cloth.
With signature of Leslie Praidheas [Price], a member of Cumann na mBan
who was a GPO courier during the rising, later the wife of Gen. Tom Barry.
and
TERESA BRAYTON
The Flame of Ireland. New York 1926.
Inscribed by author, ‘To my dear friend / Gerard Crofts’.
(2)
€100 - 200
CROFTS FAMILY
A good scrapbook probably compiled by Mrs. Crofts before her marriage, containing cuttings on Irish political and literary matters circa March 1917, including a cutting recording
Gerard Crofts’ release and removal to a Dublin hospital; and an autograph book containing
a small number of Republican autographs including John MacDonagh [brother of Thomas]
and Gerard Crofts.
(2)
Provenance: Crofts family, by descent.
An Open Letter to Thomas MacDonagh. Reprinted from the Irish Citizen,
22nd May 1915. 4 pp, no printer named. Fold marks, else a good copy of a
very scarce item.
* Skeffington, a socialist and pacifist, reproaches his friend MacDonagh for
the increasing militarism of the Volunteer movement;
The Bishop of Limerick Speaks. How the Irish Prisoners are Treated.
Leaflet, 1 pp, printing an open letter by Edward Thomas, Bishop of Limerick,
dated 30 April 1917. Folds repaired with tape.
(2)
€200 - 300
[GERARD CROFTS]
An album of newspaper cuttings on his death [November 1934], evidently compiled by his
wife, including a selection of obituary pieces, some with useful biographical information,
and with letters of condolence laid in, including letters from Maire Ni Shuibhne [sister of
Terence MacSwiney], Ellie Harbison MacSwiney, Bob Davitt [son of Michael Davitt], Ina
Kennedy and others, also his memorial card.
With a fine collection of nine mounted photographs [Irish Press copyright], each 6 x 8 ins
[15 x 20 cms] showing Gerard Crofts’ funeral leaving Whitefriar St. church and in Glasnevin
Cemetery, excellent photographs showing the large congregation.
FRANCIS SHEEHY SKEFFINGTON [1878-1916]
[1916 RISING]
Five photographic postcards relating to the 1916 Rebellion, unused, portraits of P.H. and William Pearse, W.T. Cosgrave, Sean Mac Diarmada
and Francis Sheehy Skeffintgon, with a later card showing John Devoy
with W.T. Cosgrave, De Valera, Countess Markiewicz and others; also the
Catholic Bulletin for July 1917, with short biographies of those jailed after
the Rebellion including Gerard Crofts; an Easter Week Commemoration
concert programme, 1929 (singers include Crofts), and a few copies of
Republican periodicals.
€100 - 200
171
PRINTED MUSIC
A large collection of printed music, including ‘Are You Right There,
Michael?’, words by Percy French, quarto, cover signed by Gerard Crofts
and Constance de Markiewicz, covers separated; several other Percy French
songs; other Irish songs by various hands, some by Joseph Crofts; and a
quantity of printed songs and music including some Scottish and classical
items.
As a collection, w.a.f..
€100 - 200
35
Lot 165
Lot 166
Lot 164
Lot 167
Lot 169
Lot 171
36
172
JOSEPH CROFTS
A quantity of manuscript music, quarto sheets, including arrangements and original works
by Crofts, some in parts, about 20 items, some possibly incomplete.
Joseph Mary Crofts, brother of Gerard, was a prolific composer and arranger, often working with his brother.
€100 - 200
173
CONCERT PROGRAMMES
A leather satchel containing a collection of programmes, mostly featuring Gerard Crofts
as singer, including ‘Erin Through the Ages: A Pageant of Irish History’ with designs by
Harry Kernoff, a recital with readings by Liam O’Flaherty, various Easter commemoration
and other Republican concerts, a testimonial concert to Gerard Crofts, a quantity of music
and record catalogues, some including work by Crofts, a few theatre programmes, a few
booklets, a typed playscript by ‘Scimitar’ dated 1918, some press cuttings, and a copy of the
programme for Sarah Bernhardt’s appearance at the Gaiety Theatre, Dublin 1905.
Lot 173
€100 - 200
174
[GERARD CROFTS]
A collection including a bronze Oglaigh na hEireann cap badge, 1916-21 period; a good
quality silver cigarette case with engraved initials ‘G.C.’; a Pearse commemorative silver
coin (1966) in case; a white metal ‘Sword of Life’ brooch, modern; and an embossed leather
badge inscribed rear ‘Gerard Crofts / 31.8.30 / 7 Runs’, probably sports-related.
The Oglaigh na hEireann cap-badge is scarce.
(5)
€300 - 500
175
GERARD CROFTS
A prison issue notebook, folio, buckram backed boards, dated 3.1.17, inscribed q-93 and
C2-4 [Crofts’ prison numbers], containing manuscript poems, recitations and notes written
in Dartmoor and Lewes prisons.
Includes a poem addressed to his fellow prisoner Sean Etchingham, q-106, ‘Friend of my
Heart’; another ‘To my mother (from my cell)’, written in Dartmoor; a poem ‘To Mrs. O’H.’
composed by Crofts for a fellow prisoner, Harry O’Hanrahan, brother of Micheal O hAnnrachain (executed), to send to his mother Mrs. O’Hanrahan; and various others; also some
poems by other hands including Crawford Neil, religious meditations, a few music scores,
some phrases and verses in Irish and French, and at end some lists of names headed ‘Plan
for Letters’ (prisoners were strictly limited in the letters they could receive or send, so that
planning was necessary).
Laid in is a manuscript page describing how Crofts was the first to hear Thomas Ashe’s
newly composed poem ‘Let me carry your Cross for Ireland, Lord’ sung by Ashe himself
in Dartmoor Prison.
A poignant item, evoking the isolation of a prisoner confined in his cell, cut off from his
family, sustained only by memories of home, the comradeship of his fellow-prisoners, his
religious faith and the healing powers of poetry and song.
€300 - 500
Lot 174
Lot 175
37
176
GERARD & MARGARET CROFTS
A studio photograph of Gerard and Margaret Crofts, full-length, circa 8 x 6 ins [20 x 15 cms], by Owl Studio of Henry
St. Dublin, probably 1920s, mounted in folder; with an earlier photograph signed ‘Love, Peg’, circa 5 x 3 ins [13 x 8 cms],
probably of Margaret [O’Callaghan] before her marriage, by Fox, Greenhaugh of Kilkenny & Carlow.
[2]
Provenance: Crofts collection.
€100 - 150
177
MABEL W. FITZGERALD
[mother of Garrett FitzGerald]
Christmas Hymn. Words and Music by Joseph M. Crofts.
Printed brochure, small quarto, fastened with blue silk ribbon, [8] pp, music and text on inner pages, cover with coloured illustration of Madonna and Child by Ua Fagain, published by Maire nic Shiubhlaigh, printed at Gaelic Press,
Dublin. Fold marks, covers a little soiled.
This copy inscribed on rear cover ‘From / Mabel W. FitzGerald / Bray’, with hand-drawn coloured illustration of Celtic
ruins inside front cover over manuscript verses headed La Feile Padraig / St. Patrick’s Toast 1917, further ms. verses
with Celtic borders on facing page and inside rear, apparently in Mabel FitzGerald’s hand.
Mabel W. FitzGerald was the wife of Desmond FitzGerald, and mother of Garrett FitzGerald, later Fine Gael leader and
Taoiseach. Mabel and Desmond both served in the GPO during the 1916 Rising. Desmond was imprisoned thereafter,
and was in Lewes Jail in March 1917. He was later Director of Publicity for the First Dail and a Free State Minister. A
fascinating association item.
with
ANNIE G. HIGGINS & ETHNA CARBERY.
There’s a Green Glen in Eirinn [verses] by Ethna Carbery. Music by Annie G. Higgins. Finished in Mountjoy Prison,
May, 1916. Printed at Gaelic Press, Dublin.
Printed brochure, small quarto, 8 pp, stitched. Upper cover printed in silver ink, with a hand coloured illustration
‘from a drawing by Lesle Praidheas’, inner pages with music and words printed from a ms. original. Inscribed top of p.
3, ‘From your sincere friend / Annie G. Higgins’.
Annie Higgins, a music teacher, served as a courier during Easter Week, and was arrested afterwards and held in
Mountjoy. Leslie Price [Praidheas] was a leading member of Cumann na mBan and an Easter Week courier. In 1921
she married Gen. Tom Barry; in later years she was Chairwoman of the Irish Red Cross.
Two very rare cards, no other copies recorded.
Provenance: Collection of the Republican singer Gerard Crofts (brother of Joseph)
Lot 176
Lot 177
€300 - 500
178
CAPT. J.R. WHITE [Citizen Army]
‘The downfall of the Beast’
ALS to Gerard Crofts on United Arts Club notepaper, May 31, no year (probably 1918), enclosing a manuscript poem in
5 stanzas entitled ‘The Harp that Soon -’, and indicating that a reference to revolution in Russia was written before that
event. ‘Both the reference to Russia and “the chasing of the mediocre crew” are prophetic and I think the whole poem
will be seen to be so in high degree ere long. It is the downfall of the Beast (capitalism) in Ireland and America that will
give the trouble.’ With a second manuscript poem in White’s hand beginning ‘Thou sword beside me gleaming ..’.
Capt. White was one of the strangest figures of the day. Born near Ballymena, a son of the distinguished Field Marshal
Sir George White VC (defender of Ladysmith), he was awarded a DSO for bravery in the South African war. In politics
he was a socialist and eventually an anarchist. He returned to Ireland during the Home Rule crisis of 1912, and was
one of the organisers of the pro-Home-Rule meeting at Ballymoney addressed by Sir Roger Casement. In 1913, during the Dublin lock-out, he offered to drill the locked-out workers to resist police attacks, and became a co-founder
of the Citizen Army. Later he fell out with them, and joined an ambulance brigade in France. In 1916 he was jailed
for three months for organising a strike of Welsh miners in protest at the execution of James Connolly. In the 1930s
he supported the Republican Congress, and it is thought he trained anarchist militias in the Spanish Civil War. His
signature is rare.
€200 - 250
Lot 178
38179
JOHN MacDONAGH
[brother of Thomas]
‘Child of the Slums’, narrative poem, typescript, probably unpublished, 5 pp, 22 stanzas, from a New York address, with a separate
list of ‘John MacDonagh’s Songs and Ballads’; and a collection of mainly original poetry and lyrics by various hands from the collection of Gerard Crofts, including
- F[rancis] A. Fahy. ‘Maureen of the Smiles’, poem, typescript, with ms. corrections, dated 24.7.1913.
- Hester Sigerson Piatt. ‘The Return (Terence MacSwiney, Oct. 30 1930)’ [recte 1920], typescript.
- Michael O’Mahony. Lament for Lord Wathe’ford. Printed sheet, n.d., with a covering letter to Gerard Crofts from a Liverpool
address dated 15.1.1922.
- G. Norman Reddin. ALS to Gerard Crofts dated 10.3.1923 with the words of his ballad ‘The Three Flowers’ (set to music by Crofts,
and one of his most successful pieces).
- H. Frederick Gould-Verschoyle. ALS to Gerard Crofts, 6.11.1932, enclosing score of ‘a little ballad, “Shane Machree”’.
- S. Ó Coindealbháin. ‘Tullynahane’, poem, typescript, with ms. corrections, with best wishes for the New Year.
- Desmond Colfer. ‘A Dublin Character of Today, Meelannah’, typescript, with ms. corrections.
- ‘W’en me Uncle Comes’, ms., by Louis A. Tierney.
- ‘St. Patrick’s Day 1926’, manuscript verses signed W.D., with a verse about Oliver Gogarty on rear.
- and others, including a recitation by F.P. Carey.
The range and variety of these poems and songs, sent or given to Gerard Crofts presumably in the hope that he might use them,
indicate that his popularity as a singer was by no means confined to Republican circles.
John MacDonagh, younger brother of Thomas, was a trained singer and an actor-manager with the Theatre of Ireland. In 1916 he
fought in the Jacob’s garrison under his brother’s command, and was imprisoned afterward. He later directed several films, including the well-known Willie Reilly and his Colleen Bawn.
As a collection.
Lot 179
€200 - 300
180
[EAMONN CEANNT 1881-1916]
The Ploughman.
Words and Music by Joseph Crofts. ‘Dedicated to my dear friend Eamonn Ceannt.’ Music manuscript on printed staves, in Crofts’
hand throughout, 5 pp quarto, stitched.
‘Son of my sons, does your heart beat true?
The poor old woman has work to do!
When she calls the roll, can she reckon on you,
Down at the fort by the river?’
With
‘BRAVE KEVIN BARRY’
Words by Daniel Colgan. Music by Joseph M. Crofts.
Music manuscript on printed staves, 3 pp, in Crofts’ hand.
Joseph Mary Crofts, from Camden St. in Dublin, was a musician, poet, composer and arranger, and a brother of the singer Gerard
Crofts. The two brothers were active in Republican circles, but Joseph did not take part in the Rising. Eamonn Ceannt, from Co.
Galway, was himself a musician. A member of the IRB Supreme Council, he signed the 1916 Proclamation and commanded the South
Dublin Union area during the Rising. He was executed on 8 May 1916. Kevin Barry was hanged in Mountjoy on 1 November 1920,
the first Volunteer to die by execution since the aftermath of the Rising.
(2)
Lot 180
€200 - 300
181
MAEVE CAVANAGH & CATHAL MAC DUBHGHAILL
‘Conscription. The Prayer of Ireland.’
Poem by Maeve Cavanagh, music by Cathal Mac Dubhghaill. Music manuscript on printed staves, 2 sheets quarto, separate parts for
tenor & bass, probably in Cathal Mac Dubhghaill’s hand. No date, probably 1918, probably unpublished, possibly unique surviving
copies.
Cathal Mac Dubhghaill [MacDowell], from Carlow, was active in Republican circles before the 1916 Rising. A talented musician and
composer; he arranged the music for Peadar O Cearnaigh’s A Soldier’s Song in its published form. He was involved in the Rising
and afterwards was interned at Frongoch, where he illustrated a number of sketchbooks. He married the poet Maeve Cavanagh in
1921, and died in Nice in 1926.
The campaign against conscription in 1918 was Sinn Fein’s finest hour, leading directly to its overwhelming victory in the general
election later that year.
(2)
€200 - 300
Lot 181
39
182
PEADAR O CEARNAIGH [1883-1942]
The Devil’s Crew (Dublin 1916).
Broadsheet poem printed in two columns, 7 verses of 12 lines each, an early version commencing ‘The poets have chaunted
their paeans of praise’, with manuscript corrections some of which are in O Cearnaigh’s hand, some insect damage with
significant loss to one verse. No printer, no date, probably 1916.
This version of the poem differs significantly from that in Ó Cearnaigh’s published collection, where only four verses are
included. There are corrections in two hands, one of which is O Cearnaigh’s (e.g. the word ‘first’ in right hand column).
With
Michael Dwyer. Irish Ballad. Words & Music by Peadar O Cearnaigh. Pianoforte accompaniment by J.M. Crofts. Music
manuscript on printed staves, 4 pp, in Joseph Crofts’ hand, with the words on a separate sheet in another hand (not O
Cearnaigh’s).
Peadar Ó Cearnaigh was the most popular Irish lyricist since Thomas Moore. As well as ‘A Soldier’s Song’ his work include
many songs that have passed into the tradition, such as ‘The Three-Coloured Ribbon’ and ‘Down by the Glenside’ [‘The
Bold Fenian Men’]. A member of the IRB from about 1901, he fought at Jacob’s Factory in the Rising and was later imprisoned at Ballykinlar. He took the Free State side after the Treaty.
(2)
Lot 182
€200 - 300
183
SONG BOOKS
A collection, all published by Nugent & Co. of Dublin, undated, probably circa 1915-1935, various sizes, including
- The Free and Easy Songbook
- Old And New Songbook
- Odds And Ends Songbook
- Irish Emerald Songster
- Irish Concert Songster
and several others. Printed on the thinnest newsprint and sold for a few pence, these collections are ephemeral and very
scarce. Only two are found in COPAC (both in TCD), and three in NLI. The contents include many old favourites, political,
romantic and humorous, by writers such as P.J. McCall, T.D. Sullivan, Percy French, Gerard Crofts, Louis Tierney, Norman
Reddin and others, popular in the days of the sing-song and the come-all-ye, now just a distant memory.
Lot 183
€200 - 250
184
SARA ALLGOOD [actress]
ALS to Gerard Crofts dated 4 Sept. ‘32. ‘I was only able to get the caoine taken down last night by that old darling Art
O’Murnaghan. I enclose it’, also mentioning Moiselle and the records’, Crofts’ throat, ‘wondering if you are “breathing”
right’, etc. Attached to the letter is a stave of music inscribed ‘Caoine - Riders to the Sea. Taken down from Miss Sara
Allgood by Art O’Murnaghan, Gate Theatre, Sept. 1932’, with the words under the music, ‘Tá sé imthigh uaim Go deo Go
deo Go deo / He is gone from me forever for ever for ever’.
With a second letter on her headed notepaper, 28.6.1931, mentioning a possible German engagement.
Sara Allgood, from Dublin, was a member of Inghinidhe na hEireann and a founder member of the National Theatre
Society, later the Abbey Theatre. In the first performance of Synge’s Aran tragedy Riders to the Sea, 1904, she played
Cathleen, the young woman who sees her brother brought in from the sea. The publisher George Roberts, who was also an
actor, wrote that ‘Synge was exceedingly anxious that the ‘caoine’ should be as close as possible to the peculiar chant that is
used in the islands, and after much searching I found a Galway woman living in Dublin who consented to show two of the
girls how the caoine was given .. She was a native Irish speaker, and the Irish cadences and rhythm of the words, in conjunction with the clapping of the hands and swaying of her body, made a scene very terrible and yet beautiful to look on.’
Sara Allgood played in many of the Abbey’s greatest successes, including the part of the Widow Quinn in Synge’s Playboy
and Bessie Burgess in O’Casey’s The Plough and the Stars. She later went to America and had minor parts in many
Hollywood films. Art O’Murnaghan, the artist and musician, worked as stage manager and designer at the Gate Theatre
from 1928.
An attractive association item, and a link to the great days of the Irish theatre.
(2)
€200 - 250
Lot 184
40
185
‘GENERAL O’DUFFY HOAXED!’
Leaflet, 2 pp (single sheet), Reprinted from the Irish
Worker’s Voice, Oct. 21 1933.
A most interesting document. In 1933 Gen. O’Duffy
launched a ‘Red Scare’, claiming he had evidence of
Communist plans for a takeover in Ireland through a
so-called Workers’ Revolutionary Army. This leaflet
claims that O’Duffy’s ‘evidence’ was based on fake
documents passed to him by an ex-Communist named
Frank Breen. It quotes a statement from Breen that
‘for the past month I have pulled the General’s leg
with false information and documents, all carefully
prepared. Although O’Duffy was Chief of Police for so
long, his phobia led him to swallow all the trash I planted indirectly on him .. The Workers’ Revolutionary
Army was my invention. I appointed its Council, its
Commanders, and drew up its Constitution ..’
A remarkable document, very scarce.
189
“He is Opposed to Conscription and Vaccination”
A typescript security circular concerning Sir
Arnold Luton, formerly an M.P., issued by an
R.I.C. office in Omagh, 24cms x 17cms, signed,
also with signatures of officers who read and
copied the notice. Sir Arnold is said to be in
sympathy with the Independent labour Party
and to be opposed to conscription and vaccination. ‘He is a friend of Benjamin Russman,
a Russian Jew and Pacifist, who has just started
an International Free trade League.. It is desirable to know what he is doing in Ireland.. a
discreet watch should be kept and all particulars reported to this office.” A fine example of
police paranoia. (1)
192
Republican Bond $10
A Republic of Ireland bond certificate for $10, 1920,
printed signatures of Eamon de Bhaileara, President
and Sean Ua Nunain, Registrar, issued to Nellie T.
Hersey, numbered in red 135868, printed in shades of
green with Celtic borders, circa 5 1/2 ins X 8 1/2 ins, a
few small edge tears, mounted, framed and glazed.
193
€200 - 300
190
€500 - 800
187
Fenian Bond 1865 - 67:
An Irish Republic Five Dollars Bond, decorated with
engraved cartouche, dated March 17th, 1866, signed
John O’Mahony, with an engraved profile of Wolfe
Tone, double sided, worn, with folds., as a bank note.
(1)
Co. Cork ‘Whigs’:
An interesting A.L.s., 6pp (two folded sheets),
from the writer and lawyer D.O. Madden,
7 August 1847, from a London address to
Sir Jephson Norreys, Whig (Liberal) M.P.
for Mallow,congratulating him on his recent
re-election, and mentioning other politicians including Mr. Keogh, the new M.P. for
Athlone, to whose talents he calls particular
attention. (This is William Keogh, who later
became solicitor General in apparent breach of
undertakings to his Irish Colleagues.)
* Daniel Madden from Mallow, was a friend
of Thomas Davis, and an opponent of Daniel
O’Connell and Repeal. As a m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
a manuscript Letter on House of Commons
Paper, dated 30 June 1868, to the Revern’d R.G.
Irving, accepting an invitation to a patron of
the Ellard Flower Show, together with his
carte-de-visite. A nice lot, scarce. (2)
€120 - 180
€100 - 150
186
Cavendish (Lord J.),
Nathan (Sir M.)
A manuscript 1 page Letter to the secretary at
the Dublin Office of Public Works, dated 10th
September 1916, on headed paper 37, Cornhall
Garden, S.W. relating to acknowledgement
of letter received about a “Picture” not found
at the “Under-Secretary’s” Lodge in Dublin.
Good clean Letter. (1)
€120 - 150
194
Dillon (John)
Irish Party M.P. A short A.L.s. to “My dear
Gill,” 30 Dec. 1904, regretting he has to
leave urgently, but will contact him on his
return, 2pp. single sheet, from No. 2 North
Gt. Georges Street, Dublin, with a very good
signature. As a m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
€100 - 150
€200 - 300
€180 - 220
188
Butt (Isaac)
Barrister & Political Economist. A printed cheque,
with manuscript additions made out for £15, dated
March 27th 1877, and drawn on National Bank Dublin,
signed with clear signature by Isaac Butt, stamped
paid on front, and with m/ss comments on reverse.
V. good.
* Isaac butt defended Wm. Smith O’Brien & others
members of the Young Irelanders in 1848, and members of the I.R.B. in 1865 - 67, when he gained a national
reputation. He was elected an M.P. for Limerick in
1871, and was leader of the Home Rule Confederation
of Great Britain until 1877 when he lost the leadership
to Chas. S. Parnell. (1)
€180 - 250
191
Healy (T.M.)
A collection of five letters, A.L.s. and T.L.s.,
two to Henry Holiday and family, thanking
them for ‘kind congratulations’ the second
(8 Dec. 1922) relating to his appointment as
Governor General of the Irish Free State; also
an acknowledgement to E. Matshall Esq. (1910),
and two A.L.s. (1930) to Fr. [Myles] Ronan
about matters of local history, the Coleraine
Fishery, his book ‘Stolen Waters’ etc. As a coll.
of m/ss letters, w.a.f. (5)
€300 - 400
195
Markievicz (Countess
Constance)
A short autograph note in Countess
Markievicz hand stating that the Count and
Countess have much pleasure in accepting Mr.
(T.P.) Gill’s kind invitation for Dec. 10th at
8.45. On United Arts Club, Dublin embossed
paper, changed in manuscript to 9 St. Edwards
Terrace, Garveill Ave. As a m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
€100 - 150
41
Lot 187
Lot 186
Lot 185
Lot 188
Lot 190
Lot 191
Lot 189
Lot 192
Lot 193
Lot 194
Lot 195
42
196
Redmond (William)
M.P. A short A.L.s. 2pp (single sheet) on House of
Commons paper, undated (circa 1883), signed with
initials W.R., mentions a paper and a (Parliamentary)
question; ‘with nothing to do here it is very dull & I
am longing for the time to go home to my mountains...
may be going out to Australia in September.’ With a
second typescript letter, no signature, probably a copy,
from Kilmainham but on House of Commons paper.
As a lot, w.a.f.
* William Redmond, brother of John, was briefly
imprisoned in 1881 as a ‘nationalist suspect. he became
an M.P. in 1883. In the First World War he fought
with the British Army in France and was killed there.
He was the author of “Trench Pictures from France,”
1917. (2)
200
201
“Good Old John Bull”
An attractive caricature drawing in gouache showing
soldiers of various countries in national costume with
verse - ‘Say what you like about Little Jap
After all said and done, he’s a brave little chap,
Bully Russian’s nose, he’ll give a good pull,
And he’ll be backed up, by good old John Bull.’
Signed W.R. (suggested as W. Redmond), and dated
1904. On grey paper, approx. 11.cms x 16.5cms (5” x 6
1/2”) mounted on card. As a drawing. (1)
€250 - 350
199
Stack (Austin)
A short manuscript note from Austin Stack, dated 29
December 1922, and signed A. de S. D/F, single page;
also a copy of issue No. 13, New Series of ‘Saoirse na
hEireann Irish Freedom,’ for May 1929, with an obituary article on Austin Stack, 8pp, orig. ptd. wrappers.
(2)
€120 - 180
‘To Protect the Old
Constitution”
Carson (Edward) An interesting A.L.s. 4pp. from the Carlton
Club, London, dated Oct. 9th [19]12, to a Mr. Morrison
recalling ‘the Fight over the Ponsonby site,’ saying the current battle is an expensive one,’ suggesting arrangements to
forward a contribution ‘to me or Capt. Craig M.P.,’... ‘We are
in perilous times and I really hope that the example of Ulster,
may do something to stir up a feeling of determination in
England to protect the old Constitution.’ etc. As a m/ss., with
a very good clear signature. (1)
The Lord Kilwarden & ‘The Hanging Judge’
Documents: A 2pp (single sheet) manuscript
document, dated 31st July 1801, concerning the
statement of Michael Byrne, prisoner, and signed
in a clear hand by Kilwarden; also two m/ss documents, dated April 1802 and signed by Norbury,
all as m/ss., w.a.f. Scarce.
* Lord Kilwarden (Arthur Wolfe, of Forenaughts,
Naas) was Lord Chief Justice of Ireland. In 1798,
he made representations to have Theobald Wolfe
Tone’s life spared. It was hinted at the time that
Wolfe Tone was his illegitimate son. However in
July 1803, while travelling with his daughter to
his nephew by carriage, he was surrounded by a
group of Robert Emmets followers, and he and
his nephew were piked to death. His daughter was
rescued by one of the attackers.
* Lord Norbury (John Toler, a native of Tipperary,
was infamously known as ‘The Hanging Judge,’
His most famous trial was when he acted as
judge at the trial of Robert Emmet in 1803. He
continually abused Emmet throughout the trial
before sentencing him to be hanged, drawn &
quartered.)
€200 - 300
202
Prison Letters:
A small collection, including A.L.s.on prison notepaper form Edward Reilly, Mountjoy, 8 August 1923, to
his mother, telling her he was sentenced to 15 years,
but don’t worry, its better than been shot, he’s asking
about his friends & relations, in Carrick-on-Suir and
for some clothes etc; also a letter from S. O’Dalaigh
on Sinn Fein paper to J. Babington, Carrick-on-Suir,
31.10.23, ‘We have failed to secure any definite information regarding Ed. O’Reilly. His name does no
appear on our list of hunger strikers,’ also pencilled
A.L.s., on prison notepaper from Thomas Lawrence,
Hut 22, Hare Park (Curragh), 13.5.24, to his sister,
asking about lambs, tell father not to be worried, etc;
and two autograph notes from Mary Lawrence to
unnamed friends, asking for books and / or other help
for her brother Tom, complaining he has got no help
from Sinn Fein; and an unrelated letter. As a coll. of
m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
204
€200 - 300
€150 - 220
198
M.P.A. T.L.S. from Stormont Castle, 16 May 1924, to Rear
Admiral F.L. Field, discussing ‘your progress round the
world,’ and the establishment of an Ulster R.N.V.R. Division
by Hartland - Mahon. ‘He has done splendidly ... Success will
now certainly ensue if the organisation is continued along
the lines he had laid down,’ etc. A few words crossed out in
later biro. One leaf, w.a.f. (1)
€100 - 150
€200 - 300
197
Craig (James)
Concerning Political Influence
Cosgrave (Liam), Mac Eoin (Gen. Sean) An interesting collection of 18 various A.L.s. & T.L.s many from T.D.’s and
on Dail notepaper, mostly 1950’s - 1960’s, to Messrs. J.R.
Stewart & Sons (Solc.), asking considerations on behalf of
constituents in relation to housing tenancies, etc. Includes
8 letters from Liam Cosgrave (later Taoiseach), one from
(Gen.) Sean Mac Eoin, two from Lionel Booth, etc. As m/ss
a lot, w.a.f. Good. (1)
205
€150 - 200
203
€500 - 700
reporting on an incident in Borris, Co. Carlow
in September 1848, where men Young Irelanders
were marching and drilling and confronting
the local Constabulary, the names of the men
involved are given, and it is signed and sealed
by the sub-constables, 2pp., 1 folio page. As a m/
ss., w.a.f. (1)
€150 - 220
The Custom House ‘Fire-Brigade’
Costello (Michael) “Kilmainham Jail Autograph Book, 1921”
A very good Autograph Book containing signatures of
prisoners mostly in Kilmainham Jail, Aug. - Sept. 1921,
and also some later Civil War signatures from the Curragh
(Rath Camp) 1923, compiled by Michael Costello, Section F.
Cell 3, The Kilmainham signatures include members of the
I.R.A.’s Dublin Brigade arrested after the Custom House fire
(Two signed as ‘Fire Brigade’)., including Noel D. Lemass,
Cell 22, Sect. J., brother of the late Taoiseach Sean Lemass,
who was murdered in the Dublin Mountains during the
Civil War. His signature is v. rare. Other signatures include
Seoirse Og O’Pluinceid, Dick Cooney, Michael A. Doyle,
Charlie Weston etc., about 50 names in all. There are also
two attractive watercolour drawings of the Curragh Camp
by A. Woods. In a small black oblong cloth bound autograph
book, a few pages taped, but generally in good condition. As
a m/ss., w.a.f.
* A rare and interesting album. (1)
Co. Carlow: Interesting
manuscript Court Document,
206
Cromwellian Land Settlement:
During the First Protectorate 1653 - 1659. A
single page manuscript document, concerning Ralph Eames selling his share of the partitioned soldiers lands granted by Cromwell in
August 1649, under the Adventures Act of 1642.
Dated 14th January 1655 & signed by Ralph
Eames, Witnesses present at signing, Timothy
Thompson and John Broadway ... ‘Know all men
by these Presents that I Ralph Eames late of soldier in Col Henry Pritties troop have nominated
in Consideration & do ... Enter into and take
possession of all lands, houses and entenments,
hereditaments with appurtances...’ as a manuscript, w.a.f. Scarce. (1)
€250 - 350
43
207
Lot 196
Lot 197
Lot 200
Lot 201
Lot 199
Lot 198
Lot 202
Lot 203
AOIFE TAAFFE’S AUTOGRAPH BOOK
An interesting Republican autograph book compiled by Aoife [Effie] Taaffe, ‘Political
Prisoner, Four Courts / Mountjoy / N.D.U. / Kilmainham 1922/1923’, containing signatures of many other female prisoners including Mollie Hyland, Lily O’Brien, May
Maloney (Tipperary), Alice McGrath, Maighread Bean Ui Bhuachalla, Josephine Evers,
Sighle ni Eachrain, Lil McLean, Cait ni Bhriain (Kate M. Breen), Gretta Coffey, Una
Bean an Gardunaigh, Annie Browne, Cecilia Gallagher, Eibhlin Nic Ghairbhith, Fiona
ni Phluinghceid, Brighid ni Mhaolain, Sighle Nic Amhlaoimh, Tessie Doyle, Eileen
McGrane, Maire ni Chathail, Fanny O’Neill, Nora Malone, May Gibney, Mary Heffernan,
Kid Bulfin [later wife of Sean McBride], Maighread Ni Scineadoir [Margaret Skinnider]
and many more, some of them during the 1923 hunger strike. In a well preserved autograph book, one page loose but generally in excellent condition.
Collections of women prisoners’ signatures are scarce. Aoife Taaffe was one of the most
active Kilmainham prisoners. In 1923, on the seventh anniversary of the Easter Rising
and during the prison hunger strike, she organised a performance of Pearse’s ‘The Singer’
by female prisoners. A month later she was one of three women who escaped from the
N.D.U. by scaling a wall. In August, back in Kilmainham, she took part in a performance
of Yeats’ ‘Cathleen Ni Houlihan’. See Sinead McCoole, No Ordinary Women.
Lot 204
Lot 206
€500 - 800
Lot 207
Lot 205
44
208
CHARLES STEWART PARNELL
A short ALS on paper of Morrisson’s Hotel,
Dublin, Tuesday Evening, to ‘My dear Clancy’,
arranging to meet him about a letter, with a
good signature, the entire letter (unusually) in
Parnell’s own hand, somewhat faded. Mounted
and framed with the original envelope (postmarked SP 12 91), addressed in Parnell’s hand
and with his seal, a portrait, a coloured print of
Hibernia and other items, in an old frame.
Parnell died suddenly in Brighton on 6 October
1891 - about three weeks after the date of this
letter.
212
€600 - 800
209
213
‘domiciled’ here anyway - naturalised!’
€150 - 250
211
CANON P.A. SHEEHAN
of Doneraile, Co. Cork
An interesting ALS dated Sept. 29, 1903, 4
pp (single folded sheet), to ‘My dear William’
[O’Brien, the Cork Home Rule politician], agreeing ‘to help you in your noble task of building up
a new Ireland’ by contributing an article, but
asking for time, and giving details of his current
commitments. ‘I thought you were bringing out
a canvas chair, and looking out at the Atlantic,
and getting over your exhaustion. And here you
are in a dusty Dublin office, using up all your
little strength for Ireland. I have often been
tempted to despair of Ireland; but if it ever forgets your priceless services, I shall yield to the
temptation.’ With a good signature.
With a second signed letter, incomplete, lacking
opening pages, approving the programme of
O’Brien’s ‘All-For-Ireland League’, asking after
Mrs. O’Brien, and with an intriguing P.S. ‘I have
some idea that you ought to get in touch with
Redmond. He has a difficult position; but he
seems anxious to act in a gentlemanly manner.’
William O’Brien [1852-1928], from Mallow, Co.
Cork, was a leading Irish Party MP and organiser of a Tenants’ Defence League in 1889. He
broke with Parnell, and founded the United
Irish League, which led to the reunification of
the Irish Party under John Redmond in 1900.
He left the Party in 1903 over disagreements
about land policy, and later launched his ‘AllFor-Ireland League’.
Canon Sheehan was a leading novelist of Catholic
rural life. His works include Glenanaar, My
New Curate and many others. (2)
€300 - 400
A good signature on a sheet of notepaper with
embossed address of Roinn an Uachtarain
[Presidency of the Free State Executive Council].
With an official envelope dated in another hand 14
August 1929.
William Cosgrave [1880-1965] was a member of the
Irish Volunteers from 1913 and fought in the Easter
Rising. He succeeded Arthur Griffith as President
of the Second Dail, and succeeded Michael Collins
as Chairman of the Provisional Government. He
was joint founder of Cumann na nGaedheal in 1922
and President of the Executive Council until 1932.
His son Liam Cosgrave was later Taoiseach
215
216
‘TINTOWN’ AUTOGRAPH BOOK 1923
An interesting Republican autograph book containing mainly signatures from the Curragh internment camp, October 1923, some during the hunger strike, many pages headed ‘Tintown’ or ‘Baile
an Stáin’, most with patriotic verses or phrases.
Signatures include Sean O Dugain, Louis Byrne,
Padraig O Floinn, Pierse Lalor of Bray, P. Buttner,
Neil Blaney of Rossnakill, Letterkenny, Wm Ryan,
Co. Tipp, Liam O’Neachtain, Labhras O Dunlaing
with a poem ‘in memory of Dick, Liam, Rory & Joe’,
James Elliott, 4th Batt., Tipperary Brigade, Eamon
McQuaid, III Batt., Dublin Brigade, Tomas Mac
Uileagoid, Domhnall O Dubhda, P. O Cathain, P.
O Conchubhair, Leitir Moir, Gaillimh, Padraig Mac
Mathghamhna, Liam Tannam, Liam O Neachtain
again, 25.10.23, Seventh Day of Strike, etc., etc.,
with some printed last messages pasted in at back
from prisoners condemned to die. The signatures
apparently compiled by or for Maire ni Ruairc, who
presumably was visiting the camp.
With a small photograph album, mainly containing
what appear to be family snapshots. (2)
CHARLES STEWART PARNELL
[1846-1891]
An interesting manuscript signed letter to E. O’Neill
Griffin, on House of Commons mourning paper,
May 28th 1883, 1 pp, folds worn and reinforced
at rear, the text probably in a secretarial hand but
with Parnell’s autograph signature, approving of
a project involving promotion of ‘genuine Irish
manufacture’.
With an ALS from Griffin to J.H. Davies, 10 Feb.
1912, making him a present of Parnell’s letter. ‘His
letters are extremely rare as he was not fond of writing, and I noted some time ago that one realised
11/- at a sale in London.’
Also with a second ALS to J.H. Davies, 10.11.17,
illegibly signed, thanking him for assistance in
securing a position. [3]
€300 - 500
A brief A.L.s. on Sinn Fein headed paper, 26.8.24, 1pp.
to C.S. [Chief of Staff?], acknowledging a sum of cash
for repairs of a Ford Car, signed ‘Do chara Sean T.’
inscribed in another hand, ‘Return Please.’
* Sean T. O’Ceallaigh [O’Kelly] was staff captain
to Pearse in the G.P.O. in 1916. He evaded arrest at
that time, and was afterwards a Sinn Fein T.D. and a
Republican envoy in Paris. He was a founder member
of Fianna Fail in 1926, later a Minister and in 1945
succeeded Douglas Hyde as President of Ireland. (1)
[Stack (Austin)]
Stephenson (R.L.) St. Ives, 12mo L. 1919, cloth
- Inscribed on front fly-leaf ‘A. de Staic’ - ‘Cill
Maighnean, 19 Samain 1923.’ Austin Stack’s copy,
also a colourful Brian O’Higgins Christmas card with
a manuscript note from ‘Una Bean A. de Staic’, to
‘Caitlin,’ from Seaband the Stack family home, dated
19 Dec. 1944, with an original envelope to Mrs. Stack;
and a framed portrait print of Austin Stack. As a lot,
w.a.f. (3)
* Caitlin in the letter was Kay Buckley, formerly
known as Caitlin Ni Bhuachalla.
€200 - 300
217
€400 - 600
214
O’Ceallaigh (Sean T.)
€200 - 300
€200 - 300
Erskine Childers
A short ALS from 13 Bushy Park Road, Terenure,
Dublin with indistinct date, 13 of ?. to ‘Dear
Maitland’ commenting that ‘We are desperately
MAC COSGAIR, LIAM T.
[WILLIAM T. COSGRAVE]
Ballykinlar Internment Camp 1921:
A cyclostyled typescript Order issued by C. Delamain,
Lieut. & Adjutant, approving appointment of Joe Mc
Grath to be Commandant of No. 1 Camp, and other
prisoners to be hut leaders (presumably those chosen
by the prisoners), with regulations concerning letters,
boots etc., and some other similar documents, some
damaged by damp and some with loss of text, also a
separate document, apparently a list of IRA Units in
Co. Tipperary. As a coll., w.a.f. (1)
€125 - 200
218
In Memoriam:
Breen (Dan) A good clean Memorial Card for Dan
Breen, “Jesus, Have Mercy on the Soul of Daniel
Breen, died 27th Dec., 1969... etc.,” double sided with
original photograph mounted. Good & Scarce. (1)
€120 - 150
219
Third Tipperary Brigade:
Memorial Card, In Loving Memory of Denis (Dinny)
Lacy, I.R.A., killed in Action In Aherlow, 18th
February 1923, fold-over in Memoriam, with original
photograph. Good Scarce. (1)
€100 - 150
45
Lot 208
Lot 211
Lot 209
Lot 212
Lot 216
Lot 213
Lot 217
Lot 214
Lot 218
Lot 215
Lot 219
46
220
221
In Memoriam:
223
[WILLIAM SMITH O’BRIEN]
[Kevin Barry] A memorial card, “In
ainm Naomhtha Iosa `Guidh ar anam
Chaoimhghin Ghearoid de Barra (Kevin
Barry) Saighduir I n-Arm Saorstait na
hEireann ... La Samhna 1920, i n-aois a
ocht mbliadhna deag (18 years of age)
R.I.P.” double sided text, black border,
head and shoulders photograph of Barry
in Fianna Eireann attire, some wear, otherwise good. V. Scarce. (1)
A Great Southern and Western Railway message form
marked ‘Special Express’, dated 9 October 1848, with a
manuscript message stating that ‘The Agent to the .. Railway
Company at Monasterevin has announced to the gallant
officers of the 4th Dragoons at Harringtons Hotel that the
Traitor William Smith O’Brien is to be hanged by the neck
till he be dead .. and then drawn and quartered.’
The report proved to be much exaggerated. O’Brien was
arrested and tried after the abortive 1848 Rising, but his
sentence was commuted to transportation, and he was later
allowed to return first to France and finally to Ireland.
€280 - 350
Together with A copy of Robert Sloan’s book ‘William Smith
O’Brien and the Young Ireland Rebellion of 1848’
A Memorial Card for “Cathal Brugha, 1st
Minister of Defense Irish Republic, shot
in action in Dublin, July 6th, 1922, died
... July 7th, R.I.P.,” one sided card, with
black border and head and shoulders
photograph, some wear, otherwise good
example. Scarce. (1)
225
€300 - 500
226
Frank (Francis Xavier) Flood
€120 - 180
€100 - 200
Mac Suibhne (Toirdhealbhach) Battle Cries, sm. 8vo [Cork?] n.place, 1918. Sole
Edn., Signed presentation inscription
from the authors daughter (wife of R.
Brugha), Feb. 1955, orig. wrappers, also
orig. Memorial Card of Thoirdhealbhach
Mac Suibhne, with real photograph of
Terence Mac Sweeney; and de Roiste
(Liam) The Road to Hell, a Realistic
Drama of Irish City Life. sm. 8vo Cork
(Shandon Publishing Co.) 1908. Sole
Edn., orig. wrappers frayed. A scarce
lot. (3)
€220 - 320
(2)
€300 - 500
228A
Harry Kernoff RHA (1900-1974)
A memorial card, 3.5 x 21/3 ins, with printed oval head and
shoulders portrait, within black border, ‘In Memoriam,
Michael Collins T.D., killed in Action near Bandon, Co.
Cork, August 22nd, 1922, Aged 30 years, R.I.P.’
An interesting card in good condition, rare thus.
A rare memorial postcard, 13.25 x 8cm, with large printed
portrait photo taken in Mountjoy before his execution, ‘Who
died for Ireland, March 14th 1921’
Francis Xavier Flood (June 1901[1] - March 14, 1921), known
as Frank, was a 1st Lieutenant in the Dublin Active Service
Brigade during the Irish War of Independence. He was executed by the British authorities in Mountjoy Jail and was one
of the men commonly referred to as ‘The Forgotten Ten’.
Cork Republicans:
Arthur Griffith & Michael Collins
Michael Collins T.D.
A scarce triple memorial card, In
Memory of John Daly, Fenian, Thomas
J. Clarke, Fenian, and John Edward Daly,
.. Commandant of the Irish Republican
Army, May - June 1916, 4pp. fold. card,
with black borders. Good, scarce. (1)
I.R.A. Memorial Card:
228
€300 - 400
In Memoriam:
€70 - 90
222
224
227
€400 - 600
‘Roger Casement in Dock’ Print, 31cms x 23.5cms,
signed;
‘James Connolly and The Citizen Army’, Print,
14.5cms x 10.5cms, signed; & ‘Nelson’s Pillar &
The G.P.O.’ with printed signature. All unframed.
(3)
€500 - 800
229
Postcards:
a group of four postcards of The Rebel Leaders,
including Thomas Ashe, James Mallin, Michael
O’Hanrahan, Kevin Barry (Real Photograph),
another card of Sergeant O’Leary V.C. (1st
Battalion Irish Guards) as a lot, w.a.f. (5)
€80 - 120
230
ARTHUR GRIFFITH 1871-1922,
President of Dail Eireann
His memorial card with photo, 12 August 1922, pasteboard,
black border, 3 ½ x 2 3/8 in [9 x 6 mm] in a plastic sleeve; and
an autograph note on a slip of plain paper, signed initials AG
dated 15.8.21, ‘Rec’d from Frank Ahern / The Sum of £4.13.5
/ (To be lodged with Finance Dept.)’ - typical of Griffith’s
meticulous approach to business. The paper is of course
Irish (Swiftbrook watermark).
The memorial card is scarce. After a lifetime working long
hours for little pay for the causes he believed in, Griffith
found the strain and bitterness of the Treaty split and civil
war too much to bear. He was only 50 when he died, just ten
days before Collins was shot.
[2]
Two memorial cards with printed photographic
portraits, heads and shoulders, Collins in civilian
dress, reads ‘Killed in action at Bealnablath, near
Bandon, Co. Cork, on 22nd August 1922, aged 30
years’. Both Pasteboard, 3 ½ x 2 ½ ins [9 cms x 6
cms] with black borders, w.a.f.
Postcards:
A collection of five postcards, including one
depicting De Valera throwing in a ball at a match,
another entitled ‘Keep Your Colours Flying’, and
three more, as a collection, w.a.f.
(5)
€70 - 100
231
Pictorial Postcards:
Twelve postcards from the Valentine series, ‘The
Sinn Fein Rebellion in Ireland, 1916’ in original
envelope, together with three other cards pertaining to the ‘Sinn Fein Revolt’. As a collection,
w.a.f.
(15)
€70 - 100
47
Lot 220
Lot 224
Lot 225
Lot 228
Lot 223
Lot 222
Lot 221
Lot 227
Lot 226
Lot 229
Lot 230
Lot 228A
Lot 231
48
232
Portrait Postcards:
A collection of eight postcards including Thomas
MacDonagh, Sean McDermott, Kevin Barry,
Thomas Ashe, Cornelius Colbert, Thomas
Clarke, etc. All unused.
236
233
A collection of portrait postcards of Eamon De
Valera, Arthur Griffith, Eamonn Ceannt, Thomas
Clarke, Edward Daly, Padraig Pearse, Sean Mac
Diarmada and Commandant McKeown. As a
€70 - 100
234
237
Postcards: Republican Leaders
collection, w.a.f. (7)
238 Republican Postcards:
Rebel Leaders. The O’Rahilly, three varied
portrait cards including one real photo; Con
Colbert, two portrait cards, including one of him dressed in an Irish Pipers Outfit; Eamon de Valera & two portrait cards of Francis Sheehy Skeffington, together 8 cards, all unused. (8)
€150 - 250
The Commander and Chief
Collins (Michael)
An attractive and striking black and white
Photograph of General Michael Collins
in uniform sporting a smile and in full
military attire, approx. 25cms x 20cms.
Good. (1)
€150 - 200
A rare portrait postcard depicting Sheehy
Skeffington, head and shoulders, c. 1910 by
Roe Mac Mahon, 11 Harcourt Street.
242
First World War Recruitment Poster:
A very attractive large coloured printed
Broadside Poster, “Be Honest With Yourself.
Be Certain that Your So-Called Reason is
not a Selfish Excuse” , [Lord Kitchener}
“Enlist Today”, published by the Parlimentary
Recruiting Committee (Poster No. 127), printed by Benrose & Sons Ltd., London, approx. 30
x 20” (76cms x 51cms), good scarce. (1)
A collection of nine glass
lantern slides,
approx. 8 x 8cm, depicting Charles Stewart
Parnell (1846-1891), his grave, John
Redmond (1856-1918), the Henry Grattan
statue at College Green, William Gladstone
(1809-1898) (3), his funeral procession, and
one slide depicting cartoons of ‘The Irish
as some Englishmen image them’. In a
wood and brass bound box.
€80 - 120
€250 - 300
239
€80 - 120
235
241
[Francis Sheehy Skeffington]
€200 - 300
PARNELL MEMORIAL 1911
A souvenir postcard of the unveiling of the
Parnell Memorial by John Redmond MP, 1 Oct.
1911, with portrait of Parnell, addressed to Mrs.
Anne Daly of Kilcullen, Co. Kildare, with an
enthusiastic message from someone who was
‘delighted I was here to see it’, postmarked same
day. With a solicitor’s letter to the same Mrs.
Daly, 1923, concerning rents she had been paying to Mr. Parnell and later to another landlord,
enquiring about receipts etc.
[2]
depicting ‘Friends Visiting Sinn Fein Prisoners’
after the Rising, printed by Valentine, Dublin
€50 - 80
(8)
€70 - 100
A rare postcard
Photograph:
Markievicz (Countess) an original black and
white Press Photograph of Markievicz attending the “Irish Congress,” depicting her climbing steps with briefcase, and Gentlemen in
background; together with an “Illustrated War
News,” cut-out of the Countess in prison, as a
lot, w.a.f. (2)
€80 - 100
240
Photograph:
Collins (M.) An original black and white Press
Photograph, depicting the Generals Funeral
Procession, dated Sept. 7, 1922, and stamped
New York Herald syndicate. Good clear picture indicating the vast crowds who attended
the funeral procession, approx. 16.5cms x
22cms. As a photograph. (1)
€120 - 160
243
A collection of five press
photographs
depicting the aftermath of the 1916 Rising,
including ‘Irish Prisoners being marched
along a Dublin Quay under British Guard’,
‘The Ruins of Liberty Hall’ and ‘Ruins of
Metropole Hotel’, all with press markings
on reverse.
(5)
€200 - 300
49
Lot 232
Lot 236
Lot 240
Lot 233
Lot 237
Lot 241
Lot 234
Lot 238
Lot 242
Lot 235
Lot 239
Lot 243
50
244
A collection of three press photographs
248
depicting scenes from the early 1920’s, including ‘The Funeral of the late Major of Cork
[Terence MacSwiney], 1920’, ‘British troops
arresting a citizen in Ireland in 1920’ and ‘A
Dublin Hunger Striker’, all with press markings. Also a photograph depicting ‘The Irish
Parliament’.
(4)
€200 - 300
245
A collection of six press
photographs
depicting Ulster Unionist Anti -Home Rule,
including ‘Determined Unionists and One of
Their New Colt Machine Guns’, ‘Ulstermen
Drilling with Contraband Arms’, ‘Ulster Anti
Home Rule Demonstrations’(2) and two others,
all with press markings on reverse.
(6)
€200 - 300
246
249
250
253
A photograph of Michael Collins
in uniform at Newcastle West, Co. Limerick on the
Original Pass for Four Courts Garrison
Lemass (Sean F.) Capt. An original stamped Pass
issued as Barracks adjutant at the Four Courts,
Oglaigh na hÉireann, G.H.Q., 6.6.1922, to G. Little,
M.O. (Medical Officer) of Batt. III, allowing him
to enter and leave barrack at all times. With a hurried signature, on a piece of card bearing on reverse
the seal of the High Court of Justice in Southern
Ireland.
Sean Lemass is said to have been one of the youngest Volunteers in the G.P.O. Garrison in 1916. He
was later an influential Minister for Industry and
Commerce in successive Fianna Fail Governments,
and a ground-breaking Taoiseach (1959 - 1966), the
highlight being his visit to Belfast to meet Terence
O’Neill.
* Lemass’s signature in an I.R.A. context is very rare.
G. Little, the recipient of the pass,was the late Dr.
George A. Little, historian and author. (1)
€250 - 300
A collection of five photos
251
Fianna Fail:
Presentation Dinner Dance in honour of Sean F.
Lemass T.D. to mark his retirement as Taoiseach,
2nd March 1967, Souvenir Programme,” 8vo,
Three Candles Press, 1967, 8pps, illus., signed by
Sean Lemass, Jack Lynch, Charles Haughey and
Jack Brennan, some foxing, otherwise an unusual
memento. (1)
€180 - 220
Signed by Dan Breen
Irish Politics: Houses of the Oireachtas,
Joint Sitting, Visit of President Kennedy,”
8vo D. 1963, 30pps., Signed by “Dan
Breen 2.10.1963”, some staining, otherwise fine. Scarce. (1)
€200 - 300
Signed by Eamon de Valera
Irish Politics: Bunreacht na hEireann,
[Constitution of Ireland] 8vo, D. 1937,
First Edn., signed on card (tipped in)
on front end paper by Eamon de Valera,
cloth, with gilt lettering. good clean
copy. (1)
€280 - 450
€600 - 800
Eamon De Valera & Roger Casement
“Irish President welcomes US clipper skipper.
Foynes, Ireland’. De Valera shown welcoming Captain Harold E Gray, Commander of
Pan-American Airways Clipper III, on the
arrival of the big flying boat at Foynes after a
survey flight across the Atlantic from Botwood
Harbor, NF, 1937.
(Survey flights were conducted to explore the
possibility of a regular transatlantic service.)
Together with ‘Sir Roger Casement, the Irish
plotter’, stamped ‘May - 8 1916’ on reverse and
later stamped in large red letters: DECEASED.
€50 - 80
252
8th August 1922, 14.5 x 9.5cm
Two press photographs;
depicting the aftermath of the Rising and
later. Including ‘O’Connell Street and Bridge
after 1916 rebellion’, ‘the ruined Dublin Bread
Company (DBC)’, ‘the ruined GPO’, ‘Collins
exiting a car’, and one other.
(5)
[Proclamation Signatory]
A very rare photograph, 3 ¾ x 2 ¾ ins [9 ½ x 7 cms],
showing Ceannt in Volunteer uniform in a parade in
a Dublin street, 17 March 1916, probably on the same
occasion as the photograph reproduced in William
Henry’s biography of Ceannt, p. 36.
Ceannt, from Co. Galway, was a member of the
IRB Supreme Council and a signatory of the 1916
Proclamation. He was executed on 8 May, after saying he bore no ill-will towards those against whom
he had fought.
€200 - 300
€100 - 200
247
EAMONN CEANNT
254
Signed by E. de Valera
Connradh na Gaeilge: A leaflet for Feile
Ordha na hArd - Chraoibhe 1894 1944,” tall 8vo, D. 1943, fold. out, signed
on the front in pen by Eamon de Valera
and his wife, Sinead Bean de Valera.
Good. Scarce. (1)
€100 - 150
255
Rare First Edition
of Griffith’s Famous Work
[Griffith (Arthur)] The Resurrection of
Hungary: A Parallel for Ireland, 8vo D.
(Duffy, Gill, Sealy, Bryers & Walker)
1904. FIRST EDN., 99 numbered pps.,
orig. ptd. wrappers. with advert for
‘The United Irishmen on back cover.
An excellent copy of an extremely rare
pamphlet. Carthy 63. (1)
€180 - 220
51
Lot 244
Lot 248
Lot 252
Lot 245
Lot 246
Lot 249
Lot 250
Lot 253
Lot 254
Lot 247
Lot 251
Lot 255
52
256
“Reward for “The Fenian”
Stephens (James) Fenian... A Proclamation ...
Whereas, James Stephens has been an active
Member of a Treasonable Conspiracy against the
Queen’s authority in Ireland, and escaped from
Richmond Prison... Now we, being determined
to bring the said James Stephens to Justice, Do
hereby offer a Reward of ONE THOUSAND
POUNDS to... the Arrest of the said James
Stephens. A copy of the Police Gazette or Hueand-Cry, for Tuesday, September 25, 1866. Folio
4pp. orig. ptd. wrappers. Rare. (1)
€170 - 230
257
258
261
Fianna Fail 1930’s:
€100 - 150
€100 - 150
Aiken (Gen. Frank) Chief of Staff.
€140 - 160
€120 - 180
Devlin (Joseph)
A group of three items including a skit illustrated
broadside Poster for ‘The Northern Star Variety
Company,’ in which the Stage Manager was
Joe Devlin; also a programme and menu for a
Complimentary Banquet for Joseph Devlin on
his election for West Belfast, at Ulster Hall, 26th
Feb. 1906., decor. covers etc; and a ptd. souvenir
of his death, 18th Jan. 1934. As a coll., w.a.f. All
Scarce items. (3)
Peace Negotiations:
Dail Eireann, Official Correspondence relating
to the Peace Negotiations June - September 1921,
2 parts in one, signed by E. de Valera on t.p., front
cover loose and torn, otherwise good. Rare. (1)
€180 - 220
262
Ephemera:
A bundle of various leaflets and flyers relating to
1916, Civil War, etc., including “In Memory of the
1st Battalion, Old Dublin Brigade, No. 1, O.N.E.
1916 - 23,”; “A Manifesto to the Irish People;
together with some other related material, as a
lot, w.a.f. (1)
a cyclostyled Magazine, produced by Na Fianna
Eireann, Liam Mellowes, Last Message to Fianna,
7.30a.m. Friday December 8th 1922... Suffer and
Endure for Ireland’s Sake, 4to D. 1922, 12pps.,
illus. cover, some wear, otherwise fine. Scarce.
Fianna Eireann & Liam
Mellowes:
264
A group of three documents relating to the early
stages of the Fianna Fail Party - (a) Instructions
to Personating Agents; (b) Republican Aims, ...
Stop Emigration, End Unemployment, (c) Dail
Eireann’s Message, all c. 1930’s, D. (Fodhla Press),
an unusual and scarce lot. (3)
The Mountjoy Strike. The Call to the Army,
broadside printed one side only. Rare.
* Small but important item, a rallying cry to the
Army and the people of Ireland. ‘Whether the
Hunger-Strikers Achieve Freedom or the Grave,’
the now practical certainty - seeing the brutality
of the enemy, - of long drawn out death pangs will
rank them at least equal to any martyrs, who suffered in our land - including our own - for truth,
justice and national freedom.’
€120 - 180
259
260
Fianna Fail: A collection of leaflets and flyers
265
“The Big Fellow”
[Collins (Michael)] O’Connor (Frank) The Big
Fellow. Michael Collins and the Irish Revolution,
Folio D. (Clonmore & Reynolds) n.d. [1936 37] Unrevised & Uncorrected Proof Copy. Not
for Public Circulation 70 galley pages, stapled,
printed card covers; also scarce commemorative
brochure issued on the occasion of the official opening of ‘The Michael Collins Memorial
Centre,’ on the 14th October 1990 by President
Patrick J. Hillery. Rare with interesting information on Collins and his family; (1)
€200 - 300
266
including Taoiseach’s Broadcast to the Nation,
reprinted from “Irish Press,” Thursday 17th May,
1945, and a flyer for “Fianna Fail, To the Electors
of Carlow - Kilkenny,” an other items, as a lot,
w.a.f. (3)
€50 - 60
“The Irish Treaty”
Collins (Michael)] H.M.S.O. - George (R. Lloyd)
& de Valera (E.) Correspondence relating to the
Proposals of His Majesty’s Government for an
Irish Settlement, folio L. 1921, 8pp; together with
‘Articles of Agreement for a Treaty between Great
Britain and Ireland,’ L. December 1921, 8pp; and
Letter from General Smuts to Mr. E. de Valera,
4th August 1921, 2pp. folio. All in v. good condition & v. scarce. (3)
€200 - 300
263
Sheehy Skeffington (Hanna)
Interview with Mrs. Hanna Sheehy-Skeffington.
Irish Republican Cause in America, 8vo n.p. n.d.
(c. 1918). Pamphlet 4pp. single folded sheet. Good
& Rare. (1
€80 - 120
267
1916 Rebellion:
A booklet of prints, pictures and scenes of the
various leaders, events and artefact’s for the
Easter rising, oblong 4to, D. [c. 1916] Eason &
Sons, 17 plates mounted in, original ptd. wrappers, some folds, otherwise good clean copy. (1)
€100 - 120
53
Lot 256
Lot 257
Lot 260
Lot 261
Lot 264
Lot 265
Lot 258
Lot 262
Lot 266
Lot 259
Lot 263
Lot 267
54
268
Sinn Fein Rebellion
Publications:
272
a group of three Booklets each depicting events,
group leaders, and the destruction of the various land marks in Dublin, including (a) “The
Rebellion in Dublin, April, 1916,” (Eason &
Son Ltd.); “Dublin and the Sinn Fein Rising”
(Wilson Hartnell & Co. Dublin); and “The
Sinn Fein Revolt Illustrated,” (Hely’s Limited),
all oblong, 8vo, illus. & adverts, ptd. wrappers.
Good. (3)
1921 Political Documents
H.M.S.O.: George (D. Lloyd) Correspondence
Relating to the Proposals of his Majesty’s
Government for an Irish Settlement, with
Eamon De Valera’s reply’s, folio L. July 20th
- Aug. 24th, 1921, 8pp, disbound & another
copy of same, (6pp); Documents relative to
the Sinn Fein Movement, 8vo L. 1921, 60pp;
Arrangements concerning the Cessation of
Active Operations in Ireland which came into
Force on July 11th, 1921, folio L. 1921; Outrages
(Ireland), Return showing the number of serious outrages in Ireland reported by Royal Irish
Constabulary ... during ... October, November
& December 1920. Folio D. 1921; and Army
Correspondence Relating to Recent Events in
the Irish Command, folio L. 1914, all disbound,
orig. ptd. wrappers. As a lot. (6)
273
274
Police Gazette:
Three copies of Hue and Cry or the Police
Gazette, the first for July 31st, 1845, the first
year of the Great Irish Famine, and concerns the murder of the notorious landlord
and tyrant, George Bell Booth; the second for
August 14th, 1868, concerns Thos. Q. Kelly &
Timothy Deasy, Fenians, who were apprehended in Manchester; & the third dated August 8,
1879, concerns the murder of Lord Leitrim &
others in Co. Donegal, known as ‘The Cartlagh
Wood Murders,’ as a coll., w.a.f. Interesting
lot. (1)
€120 - 180
271
Northern Ireland interest:
Nineteen varied pamphlets, brochures, booklets of Northern Ireland interest, Troubles etc.
As a lot, w.a.f. (1)
€70 - 120
276
Broadside:
Police Notice - £5 Reward, a broadside poster printed
one side only, by M’Mullen, Printer, Bishop Street,
Dublin, approx. 28cms x 22cms (11” x 8 3/4”), some dam.
but no text loss. Police Reward for malicious damage to
a pair of gates in Sackville Garden, Summer Hill, signed
and dated by David Henry Sherrard, 88 Upr. Dorset St.,
18 Aug., 1854. (1)
275
ROBERT HAYDON or HAYDEN,
sometime President of Land League
A manuscript commonplace book containing drawings and poems, some dated
1868/9, some probably original, including a
drawing of a Manchester Martyrs memorial
and other Celtic drawings, extracts from
Mangan, a poem headed ‘Hope for Ireland’
signed ‘By Acting Volunteer Robert Hayden,
Feb 29 / 68’; etc.
With a cuttings book apparently kept by a
member of the family of Henry Williams
mainly containing death notices, including
notice headed ‘Late Mr. Robert Haydon’
which records that he was a former President
of the Land League; also notice of death of
Henry Williams and other members of the
Williams and Haydon families, with many
others. Presumably there was a connection
between the two families.
Provenance: Williams collection
(2)
€200 - 300
€100 - 150
€250 - 350
270
Shaw (James J.) Mr. Gladstones Two Irish Policies 1868
& 1886. A Letter to an Ulster Liberal Elector. 8vo L.
(Marcus Ward) 1888; Mac Veagh (Jeremiah) Religious
Intolerance Under Home Rule, L. [1911]; Gwynn (S.) The
Case for Home Rule, D. n.d.; Kensit (J.A.) Rome behind
Sinn Fein, L. n.d., [1921]; The Gladstone Almanack,
1885, oblong 8vo L. 1885, illus.; broadside - Belfast and
British Boycott, lg. broadside, printed one side only,
1921; also Belfast ‘Riots’ 1935; an album of press cuttings; & 3 other items sim. As a coll., w.a.f. (1)
100 - 150
€180 - 220
269
Ulster interest, etc:
278
Republican Bond
A typed letter from Darrell Figgis at Cumann Sinn Fein,
Dublin, dated 17th November 1917, to Francis Phillips,
Sec. Cashel Sinn Fein Club, concerning a lecture to
be held as part of Manchester Martyrs celebrations,
signed by Figgis, 1pp; a printed circular from Sinn
Fein, Hartcourt St., Dublin concerning a forthcoming
Census & Reports on the status and availability of good
supplies in Ireland, dated Nov. 19th, 1917; and two other
printed propaganda hand-bills, one dated 28.8.18. As a
lot, w.a.f. (1)
$10
An engraved Bond Certificate issued by
the Republic of Ireland, denomination 10
dollars, printed in green and black, with
(printed) signatures of Eamon de Bhailéara,
President, and Seán ua Núnáin, Registrar,
January 21st 1920, exchangeable one month
after the international recognition of the
said Republic, issued to Mrs. Goode, with
printed number 183969, circa 5 ¾ x 8 ¾
ins., some slight tears and discolouration,
otherwise VG.
€100 - 150
€500 - 800
Sinn Fein interest:
JAMES KEARNEY
(Kilpatrick, Bandon, Co. Cork)
A collection of documents relating to his membership of
the IRA, 1920-23, and later of Fianna Fail, including a
Military Service Pension submission with details of service, an adjudication certificate 1934, a notice of appointment (worn) as a Personation Agent signed by Thomas
Hales (Fianna Fail, formerly a leading IRA member),
1948 election; ALS on Dail notepaper (torn), 19.10.32,
from Sean Moylan, later Minister for Education; ALS
on Dail notepaper from Sean Buckley TD confirming
Kearney’s IRA and Irish Army service and recommending him for a post; Kearney’s signed manuscript Report
to a Fianna Fail cumann meeting 1932, written on the
back of an ArdFheis notice; and other documents relating to rent for a labourer’s cottage, rate receipts, vaccination certificates and so on. Condition varies.
€400 - 600
279
Sheehy Skeffington (Hanna) Interview
with Mrs. Sheehy - Skeffington. - Irish
Republican Cause in America, 8vo 4pp.
(single folded sheet) n.p. n.d. (c. 1918), 24pp.
v. good condition & very scarce. It outlines
the circumstances of her husband’s death
& castigates the British for his murder; also
British Militarism As I have Known it, 8vo
Tralee (Kerryman) 1946. Fifth Printing.
Port. frontis. orig. ptd. wrappers. Rare.
* Principally the text of a lecture delivered
in the United States during a stay there from
Dec. 1916 to 1918. The text was banned in
England & Ireland. (2)
€250 - 350
55
Lot 268
Lot 272
Lot 276
Lot 269
Lot 273
Lot 278
Lot 270
Lot 271
Lot 274
Lot 275
Lot 279
56
280
Republican Music Sheet:
Stanley (Joseph)
The Flag of Freedom
Words & Music by J.Stanley, folio D. (Gaelic Press) c.
1918. large single sheet folded, with text both sides, the
front cover printed in colour. Scarce
284
€150 - 250
281
285
€80 - 120
282
[James II] Manuscript Document.
Contemporary clerical copy of statement by James II
after his second unsuccessful attempt to seat William
of Orange, issued the day before his departure for
France in 1688. It is headed “King James’ reasons
for withdrawing himself from Rochester, said to be
written with his own hand, or by him ordered to be
published and they were published accordingly”; “The
World cannot wonder at my withdrawing myself…….
I might have expected somewhat better usage ….. I
write to ye Prince of Orange ….. the sending to me at
one of ye clock at midnight when I was in bed a kind
of order …. To be gone out of my palace before 12 the
same morning ….. what had I then to expect from
one, who by all Arts has taken such pains to make
me appear as black as hell …… I hope it will please
God ….. they will agree to liberty of conscience to all
Protestant Dissenters, or that those of my own persuasion …. May live peacibly and quietly ……. Rochester
December 22 1 688 JR” 3 pages 4to
€150 - 250
283
Republican Documents:
A small collection of pamphlets etc., including Ua
Fhloinn (R.) [Rob. Lynd}. ‘The Ethics of Sinn Fein’,
Published by Authority of the Executive, Limerick
n.d. partly unopened, wrappers; ‘Irish Press Ltd.
Prospectus’, 1928, worn; ‘Defence Force Regulations,
Musketry Booklet, 1925; ‘Constitution of Sinn Fein’,
8pp. disbound; Mac Neill (E.) ‘Daniel O’Connell and
Sinn Fein’, Tracts of the Times, No. 6, 8vo D. n.d.,
23pp; & some other items. As a lot, w.a.f.
€100 - 150
288
Two printed circular letters to landowners,
one signed Maj. Gen. H. Bunbury, seeking
permission for troops to hold manoeuvres over
their lands in Co. Carlow, 1907 & 1911. One
trimmed, without loss. Unusual
(2)
€150 - 250
Republican Pamphlets:
‘On the Proper Shoulders’, roy 8vo Manchester n.d.
[c.1922]. An 8pp. document, outlining Churchills
demand for the Four Courts to be attacked, extracted
from Hansards Journals of the Proceeding of The
House of Commons
together with ‘The Most Rev. Dr. Mannix on the
Position’, January 1922 - March 1923. Roy 8vo
Manchester n.d. [c.1923], 8pp. orig. ptd. wrappers.
Good. Both V. Scarce.
Military Manoeuvres in Co.
Carlow
Pamplets:
Sheffield (Lord) ‘Substance of the Speech
...upon the Subject of the Union’, 8vo L n.d.
[1799], title, 62pp. advert leaf at end;
Pitt (Wm.) ‘Speech ... Basis of an Union
between Great Britain and Ireland, 8vo L.1799,
Sixth Edition, title, [96]pp;
‘A Report of the Debate in the house of
Commons of Ireland on the Subject of A
Union, D. 1800, 142pp;
and two other similar, all disbound, w.a.f.
289
1916 REBELLION
A small collection including a good copy of
‘The Rebellion in Dublin, April 1916’ (Easons)
with images of the destruction; An Triomhadh
Cath Sean-Bhriogoid Atha Cliath [3rd Battn.
Old IRA], programme for Ceilidhe Mor, 3
May 1935, signed on front cover by Eamon de
Valera (then Taoiseach) beside his portrait;
and a postcard showing the signatories of the
Proclamation.
As a collection.
290
€300 - 500
Mitchelburne Club - membership cert, August 1916.
Illustrated and coloured A3 size certificate, printed by
W&G Baird Ltd, Belfast.
Certifying that ‘James McCauley was enrolled a Member
of this Club, on the 12 day of August 1916’. Dated
6th November 1916 and signed by Robt McCorker
(President), SA Hutchinson (Secretary), David Wilton
(Treasurer).
MAUD GONNE MacBRIDE
‘Creating Lunatics’. Printed leaflet, A-4, dated 30
April 1924, as Secretary of Women Prisoners’ Defence
League, with some manuscript corrections.. ‘There is
a thing worse than death - madness. The penalty the
rulers of the Free State are inflicting on large numbers
of their political opponents who will not forswear their
allegiance to the Republic’, with details of some cases,
and quoting a Doctor who forecasts ‘hundreds of cases
of mental collapse’ unless the prisoners are released
very shortly. Rare.
€200 - 300
CORK JAIL MEMORIAL
Souvenir of Unveiling, 11 July 1948, Lee Press,
Cork, printed wrappers. Booklet with details
of eighteen men who died in Cork jail in the
service of the Irish Republic, fourteen executed
while prisoners of war, two died on hunger
strike, one of wounds received in action and
one shot by a sentry, with photographs of fifteen of the men and of the Memorial designed
by Somhairle MacCana, executed by Seamus
Murphy and erected by public subscription.
With an introduction in Irish and English,
explaining that the section of the Jail yard
where the men were interred was transferred
by the Government to University College,
Cork, and redesigned as a memorial plot.
Very scarce.
Apprentice Boys of Derry:
€50 - 100
€150 - 250
287
Dublin and the “Sinn Féin Rising”, 1916
Published by Wilson Hartnell & Co, Dublin. As
with most surviving copies, the covers are detached.
However, this copy still retains its stapled-in facsimile
of The Irish War News. Very many copies of Dublin
and the “Sinn Féin Rising” have lost this facsimile,
but because the booklet’s pages aren’t numbered, its
absence is usually unnoticed.
Together with;
The Times History and Encyclopaedia of the War - Irish
Rebellion of April 1916
Parts I and II - August 1 and August 8, 1916. Two special
issues dedicated to the Irish Rebellion of April 1916. 80
densely packed and detailed pages, full of fascinating
content, and profusely illustrated with many uncommon images of the Rising. (2)
€100 - 150
€100 - 150
286
Souvenir booklet:
291
BATTLE OF MOUNT STREET BRIDGE
A cyclostyled typescript account by Simon Donnelly,
O/C “C” Company, stapled in wrappers, contents mostly loose, 13 pp plus two maps, some pages in manuscript
laid in, some manuscript notes on blank facing pages,
probably Donnelly’s own copy. Some pages torn, but
no significant loss.
The engagement at Mount Street Bridge on Wednesday
of Easter Week was one of the most successful Volunteer
operations. A small Volunteer force, well placed in
buildings commanding the bridge, held up an entire
British column for most of the day, causing casualties
of some 200 killed and wounded, and giving way only
when the buildings they occupied were well ablaze. A
significant document.
€300 - 500
57
Lot 285
Lot 280
Lot 288
Lot 287
Lot 286
Lot 289
Lot 290
Lot 291
58
292
BARNES & McCORMACK APPEAL COMMITTEE
1940
A collection of letters and documents relating to
a Committee set up ‘to ensure that the sentence of
death passed on two of their fellow-countrymen,
Richard McCormack (otherwise Richards) and
Peter Barnes, be not carried out’.
The two men were tried, convicted and sentenced
for complicity in the IRA’s Coventry bombing
of 1939, in which five people died and seventy
were injured when a bomb placed on the carrier
of a bicycle exploded in a crowded street. The
incident led to emergency legislation both in the
UK and in Ireland. McCormack acknowledged
that he was involved, but Barnes denied knowing anything about the matter. A campaign
for clemency was organised by this Committee,
headed by Maud Gonne MacBride. Although
De Valera himself made representations to the
British Government, the campaign was unsuccessful and the two were hanged.
The present file includes circulars issued by the
Committee, some lists of names possibly in Maud
Gonne MacBride’s hand, and letters from Roddy
Connolly (in thorough agreement), Patrick J.
Gorry TD (favourable), Patrick Boland (favourable), Art O Briain (favourable), Dan Breen (fullest support) and others.
An interesting collection.
294
295
€200 - 300
PAMPHLETS.
€100 - 200
300
Irish Rebel Leaders:
€100 - 200
300A
EAMON DE VALERA
EAMON DE VALERA
Presidential Statement of Policy. Delivered at
the Public Session of Dail Eireann, April 10
1919. 3 pp (single folded sheet). Scarce.
€100 - 200
296
SINN FEIN HANDBILLS
A collection of seven, 1917-18 and later, various sizes, including Economic Conscription
[1917], Ireland a Nation [1918], Can Ireland
Stand Alone? [1918] and four later items, one
an election leaflet from the ‘Pact’ election of
1922. All scarce.
As a collection
301
297
SINN FEIN PAMPHLETS
A collection of six, 1918 and later, various
sizes, including Robbery Under Arms [1918],
The Voice of Ireland [1918], Ulster Betrayed
[1923] and three others, all scarce.
As a collection.
€100 - 200
298
1923 HUNGER STRIKE
Sinn Fein Daily Sheet, No. 1. 25th October
1923. Folio, single sheet, printed one side
only, the first of a series chronicling the continuing hunger strike of Republican porisoners in Mountjoy and elsewhere. A very good
clean copy.
€100 - 200
A collection including Speech of Charles Stewart
Parnell, Chicago, February 23 1880; Why The
National Group Resigned, reprinted from ‘The
Nation’ [1924]; and about seven various Republican
and similar items, 1920s and later.
Mac Swiney (T.) Principles of Freedom, N.Y. 1921,
d.w.; Colum (P.) Arthur Griffith, D. 1959, d.w.;
Ryan (D.) Unique Dictator - A Study of Eamon de
Valera, L. 1936; Norstedt (Johann A.) Thomas Mac
Donagh A Critical Biography, 1980, d.w.; Murphy
(Brian P.) Patrick Pearse and the Lost Republican
Ideal, D. 1991, d.w.;Henry (Rob. M.) The Evolution
of Sinn Fein, D. & L. 1920, All first Edns. (6)
A state warrant appointing the Right Hon. Cecil
Bisshopp, Baron Harmsworth, to be one of the
Visitors of Trinity College, Dublin, March 1943,
typed within a green printed Celtic border, blind
stamp of the Irish Republic, signed by De Valera as
Taoiseach. 550 x 380 mm, rolled. A rare item.
Cecil Harmsworth was a noted book collector and
a friend of the Yeats family. The appointment as
Visitor is a ceremonial one.
€300 - 500
€100 - 200
FIRST DAIL PROCEEDINGS
Iris Dail Eireann. An Cheud Tionol. 21 Ianuar,
1919. Ar n-a chur fa chlo le hughdaras Dail
Eireann [printed with the authority of Dail
Eireann]. 32 pp, orig. light blue printed wrappers, the wrappers torn with minor loss, staples
rusted, else a good copy in later glassine wrapper.
The full proceedings of the opening day in Irish
and English, with some sections in French also,
and including the roll-call, constitution, declaration of independence, message to the free nations
of the world, and the democratic programme.
The errata section on final page records that
Micheal O Coileain [Collins] and Enri O Beolain
[Boland] were not present (in fact they had gone
to England to make preliminary arrangements
for De Valera’s escape from Lincoln Jail).
Very scarce.
Declaration of Independence. Faisneis
Neamhspleadhchuis. Sceal on Dail chum
soar-naisiuin an domhain. Message to the
Free Nations and Democratic Programme
adopted by Dail Eireann in the Mansion
House, Dublin, Tuesday 21st January 1919.
12 pp, stapled, no printer, in English and
Irish throughout. A fine copy of a rare and
important document, containing the founding declarations of Irish nationhood.
299
€300 - 500
€500 - 800
293
FIRST DAIL DECLARATIONS
[Collins (Michael)]
Beaslai (Piaras) Michael Collins Soldier and
Statesman, D. 1937. First; Coogan (Tim Pat)
Michael Collins, A Biography, L. 1990. First, d.w.;
Forster (Margery) Michael Collins - The Lost
Leader, L. 1971, First, d.w.; Taylor (Rex) Michael
Collins, L. 1958, First, & d.w.; Hart (P.D.) Mick The Real Michael Collins, L. 2005. Uncorrected
Proof. (5)
€150 - 200
302
The Troubles:
Barry (Tom) Guerilla Days in Ireland, D. 1955;
Butler (Ewan) Barry’s Flying Column, L. 1971;
both First Edns., & d.w.; Hogan (David) Four
Glorious Years, D. 1954, d.w.; White (G.) & O’Shea
(B.) The Burning of Cork, Cork 2006; Cronin
(Sean) Frank Ryan - The Search for The Republic,
D. 1980; & 1 other. (6)
€80 - 120
59
Lot 292
Lot 293
Lot 296
Lot 297
Lot 300
Lot 300A
Lot 294
Lot 295
Lot 298
Lot 299
Lot 301
Lot 302
60
303
Morgan (J.H.)
307
ed. The New Irish Constitution, An Exposition
and Some Arguments. L. [1912]. cloth; Hogan
(James) Election and Representation, Cork Uni.
Press 1945, First, d.w.; Mc Dunphy (M.) The
President of Ireland, His Powers, Functions and
Duties. D. 1945. First Edn.,; Mc Cabe (Ian) A
Diplomatic History of Ireland 1948 - 49, D. 1991,
First., d.w. (4)
Wolfe Tone Annual
O’Higgins (Brian)ed. The Wolfe Tone Annual,
1932 - 1962, together 28 No’s, lacking only Vols.
for 1937 & 1957, all 8vo, illus., & orig. illustrated
printed wrappers. As a periodical, w.a.f. (28)
History of the Irish Rebellion in 1798, 8vo L.
1864, engd. plts. & ports., cloth; Byrne (Myles)
Notes of an Irish Exile of 1798, 8vo D. n.d., cloth;
Hayes (Richard) The Last Invasion of Ireland,
D. 1939, illus., d.w.; also Knox (Oliver) Rebels
& Informers, Stirrings of Irish Independence L.
1997. First Edn., d.w. (4)
311
€100 - 150
€80 - 120
304
1798: Maxwell (W.H.)
308
€180 - 250
312
€60 - 90
305
Irish Rebel Leaders:
Martin (F.X.) & Byrne (F.J.)eds. The Scholar
Revolutionary. Eoin Mc Neill 1867 - 1945 and
the Making of a New Ireland, roy 8vo Shannon
1973; Norman (Diana) Terrible Beauty - A Life
of Constance Markievicz, L. 1987; Memoirs of
Desmond Fitzgerald 1913 - 1916, L. 1968; de
Blaghd (Earman) Briseadh na Teorann, D. 1955,
All First Edn, & all d.w.; O’Malley (E.) On
Another Man’s Wound, D. 1979, d.w.; & O’Luing
(S.) Art O’Griofa, roy 8vo D. 1953. First, & d.w.
(6)
309
Rare Republican Histories:
Kerry Fighting Story, 1916 - 1921, and Dublin’s
Fighting Story, 1916 - 1921, told by The Men
Who Made it; also With the I.R.A. in the Fight
for Freedom, 1919 to the Truce, The Red Path
to glory, and Rebel Cork’s Fighting Story; and
Antrim’s Patriot Dead 1797 - 1953, with Heuston
(John M.) Headquarters Battalion - army of
the Irish Republic, Easter Week, 1916, all 8vo,
& illus., all in very good condition. a Scarce
Collection. (6)
€300 - 400
310
313
[Casement (Sir Roger)]
Mackey (Herbert O.) The Life and Times of
Roger Casement, D. 1954; also The Crime against
Europe, Writings and Poems of Roger Casement.
D. 1958; Montgomery Hyde (H.)ed. Trial of Sir
Roger Casement, L. 1960; Gwynn (D.) Life and
Death of Roger Casement, L. n.d., all d.w.’s;
& Noyes (A.) The Accusing Ghost of Roger
Casement, N.Y. 1957. First American Edn. (5)
€100 - 150
Young Irelanders etc:
Touhill (Blanche M.) William Smith O’Brien and
His Irish Revolutionary Companions in Penal
Exile, Columbia 1981; Moody (T.W.) Davitt and
the Irish Revolution 1846 - 82, Oxford 1981; Mac
Call (S.) Irish Mitchel - A Biography, L. 1938 All
First Edns. & d.w.’s; O’Sullivan (T.F.) The Young
Irelanders, Tralee 1945; Doheny (M.) The Felon’s
Track, D. 1951, both d.w.’s. (5)
€100 - 150
€100 - 150
€90 - 140
306
Partition & Ulster:
Gallagher (Frank) The Indivisible Island, The
Story of Partition of Ireland, 8vo L. 1957. First
Edn., with an orig. letter from W. Warnock concerning the above vol.; Roebuck (P.)ed. Plantation
to Partition, Belfast 1981; Hastings (Max) Ulster
1969, L. 1970; Gibbon (P.) The Origins of Ulster
Unionism, Manchester 1975; Beckett (J.C.) The
Making of Modern Ireland 1603-1923, L. 1966;
& 2 others. (7)
Casement (Roger) Singleton - Gates (P.) &
Girodias (M.) The Black Diaries, roy 8vo Paris
1959. Limited Edn. No. 1450 (1500), illus., d.w.;
Maloney (Wm. J.) The Forged Casement Diaries,
8vo D. 1936, First Edn.; Curry (Dr. Chas. E.)ed.
Sir Roger Casement’s Diaries, ‘His Mission to
Germany and the Findlay Affair’ 8vo Munich
1922; and Noyes (A.) The Accusing Ghost or
Justice for Casement, L. 1957. First Edn., d.w. All
Scarce. (4)
€120 - 180
Co. Leitrim: War of
Independence,
Doherty (P.) Paddy Doherty Looks Back, An
Autobiography of a Leitrim Freedom Fighter, 8vo
Cavan (Abbey Printers) 1977, First Edn., illus.,
ptd. wrappers. Scarce. (1)
The Casement Diaries
[Casement (Roger)]
Spindler (Capt. Karl) The Mystery of the
Casement Ship, With Authentic documents
Berlin 1931. First Edn., also Gun running for
Casement, in the Easter Rebellion 1916, L. 1921.
First Edn.,; & Monteith (Capt. R.) Casements
Last Adventure, Chicago 1932. Privately Printed,
profusely illustrated; and the Dublin Edition
of same, 8vo D. 1953, both d.w.’s. A scarce lot.
Good. (4)
€120 - 180
314
Scouts, Guides & Brownies:
First Aid Book compiled especially for Boy Scouts;
Evans (R.) More Hobbies and Handcrafts for Girl
Guides; Plays for Guides and Brownies; and Hints
on Girl Guide Tests, all 8vo, L. & Glasgow 1938 49, illus., ptd. wrappers, as a lot, w.a.f. (4)
€80 - 120
61
Lot 303
Lot 304
Lot 305
Lot 307
Lot 308
Lot 309
Lot 311
Lot 312
Lot 313
Lot 306
Lot 310
Lot 314
62
315
Parnell (Chas. S.)]
319
Lyons (F.S.L.) Charles Stewart Parnell, L.
1977, d.w.; O’Brien (Conor Cruise) Parnell &
His Party 1880 - 90, Oxford 1957, d.w.; Haslip
(J.) Parnell - A Biography, L. 1936; Larkin
(Emmett) The Roman Catholic Church in
Ireland and the Fall of Parnell 1888 - 1891,
Liverpool 1979, d.w. (4)
The Anglo-Irish Treaty:
317
320
Pakenham (Frank) Peace by Ordeal, L. 1935;
Younger (Carlton) Ireland’s Civil War, L.
1968; Gallagher (F.) The Anglo-Irish Treaty,
L. 1965; O’Connor (Ulick) The Troubles
Ireland 1912 - 1922; O’Farrell (Padraic)
Who’s Who in the Irish War of Independence
1916 - 1921, D. & Cork 1980; Boyce (D.G.)
Englishmen and Irish Troubles, L. 1972, illus.
All First Edns., & d.w.’s. Good. (6)
€120 - 180
Sinn Fein Rebellion Handbook, Easter 1916, 8vo
D. 1916. Second Edn., illus. orig. ptd. wrappers,
stained and spine dam.; also 1917 Issue, of same
work, an exceptionally good copy with the large
fold. colour printed map of Dublin, & other,
orig. ptd. wrappers. v. good. A scarce pair. (2)
Republican Ireland:
321
Coogan (Tim Pat) The I.R.A., N.Y. 1970; Bell
(J. Bowyer) The I.R.a. - The Secret Army, D.
1979; Dillon (M.) The Enemy Within - The
IRA’s War Against the British, L. 1994; Taylor
(P.) Provos - The IRA and Sinn Fein, L. 1997;
Le Bailly (Jacques) Heroique et Tenebreuse
IRA, Paris 1972, all d.w.s. (5)
€200 - 300
324
Reprint - Whitton (Fred. Ernest)
The History of the Prince of Wales Leinster
Regiment (Royal Canadians), 2 vols. & folder of
maps, 3 vols. 4to D. 1998. Lim. Edn. 74 (200),
illus. cloth, & cloth slip case. Mint. (3)
€100 - 150
The Pigott Letters Libel Case
325
Pakenham - Law (T.)ed. Report of the Trials
of Alexander M. Sullivan and Richard Pigott
for seditious Libels on the Government at the
County of Dublin Commission ... February
10, 1868,... 8vo D. (A. Thom) 1868, orig. cloth
backed boards, foxed, otherwise good. Scarce.
(1)
Military - Doyle (Arthur
Conan)
The British Campaign in France and Flanders
1914 - 1918, vols. I - VI, 6 vols. 8vo L. 1916 [1919]., fold. maps etc., d.w.’s dam; also The Great
Boer War, L. 1900, second Impression, cloth. (7)
€80 - 120
€120 - 180
326
322
Michael Collins and The Making of a New
Ireland, 2 vols. sm. thick 4to D. 1926. First
Edn., 2 cold. frontis & 16 bl. & white illus.,
some loose, needs rebinding. (2)
Provenance: Maurice Stephen Geary, formerly a volunteer with Kilmeedy Flying Column,
Co. Limerick, by descent through the family.
The Campaigns and History of the Royal Irish
Regiment, 2 vols. 4to & Folder of maps, D. 1997.
Lim. Edn. 25 (200), illus. cloth, & in cloth slip
case. Mint. (3)
€120 - 180
I.R.A.:
Beaslai (Piaras)
Reprint - (Gretton Lt. Col.
G. le M.)
€100 - 150
Copies of The Capuchin Annual, for 1966 &
1968, containing large detailed sections, profusely illustrated on the 1916 Easter Rebellion
and the period 1916 - 1917 - 1918. Orig. ptd.
wrappers. V. good copies. Rare. (2)
€90 - 140
318
323
€280 - 350
€100 - 150
316
Sinn Fein Rebellion:
Fitzgerald (Wm. G.)
The Voice of Ireland - Glor na h’Eireann, A
Survey of the Race Nation from All Angles. By
the Foremost Leaders at Home and Abroad. Lg.
4to D. n.d. Sole Edn. cold. front ‘Blessing the
Colours’ after J. Lavery, profusely illustrated,
orig. cloth, gilt. Good.
* Chapters on “Sinn Fein Movement;” “Towards
Physical Force;” “The Reign of Terror,” “The
Women’s Part,” “Internal Strife” & “The
Problem of the North East.” (1)
€120 - 180
Box: Irish Republican interest:
Dickson (C.) Revolt in the North Antrim and
Down in 1798, D. 1960; O’Broin (L.) Fenian Fever
- An Anglo - American Dilemma, L. 1971; Bew
(Paul) Land and the National question in Ireland
1858 - 82, D. 1978; Martin (F.X.)ed. Leaders and
Men of the Easter Rising: Dublin 1916, L. 1967;
Lyons (F.S.L.) The Fall of Parnell, L. 1962; & 18
others, some paperbacks. As a box lot. (1)
€140 - 200
63
Lot 317
Lot 316
Lot 315
Lot 319
Lot 321
Lot 320
Lot 322
Lot 318
Lot 326
64
327
Irish Republican interest:
Box Lot: Ryan (D.) Sean Treacy and the
3rd Tipperary Brigade, 1945; Mac Swiney
(T.) Principles of Freedom, D. 1921; Fox
(R.M.) The History of the Irish Citizen
Army, D. 1943; Ryan (W.P.) The Irish Labour
Movement, D. 1919; Shiel (K.R.) The Making
of a Republic, D. n.d.; O’Callaghan (Séan)
The Easter Lily - The Story of the I.R.A., L.
1956; Coogan (Tim Pat) Michael Collins, L.
1990. Signed Copy; Forester (M.) Michael
Collins - The Lost Leader, L. 1971; Griffith
(A.) Resurrection of Hungary, D. 1918;
Kavanagh (P.F.) Insurrections of 1798, D.
1920; Gwynn (D.) the History of Partition,
D. 1950; Plunkett (Jos. Mary) Poems, D.
1919; Macardle (D.) the Irish Republic, d.
1951; and approx. 37 others sim., (approx.
50 items in all), some First Edns., and many
with orig. d.w.’s. As a coll., w.a.f. (1)
330
National Association of Old I.R.A.: Iris Drong Atha Cliath
331
332
333
“The Blacksmith of Ballinalee” - Sean Mac Eoin
Longford interest:
* Includes a printer’s proof of the published
biography; corrected galley proofs; instructions for illustrations; related news cuttings
and newspapers; a collection of letters from
Dr. Garrett Fitzgerald and others consulted
by the author; address of Breandan Mac
Giolla Choille at the launch; and the typescript first draft with the author’s manuscript notes, 1993. As a coll., w.a.f.
€300 - 400
map at rear (pocket torn); and two others.
A collection of 3 booklets of poetry,
1. Sheaves of Revolt, D. 1914, dedicated to the president and the
Boys of Fianna Eireann;
2. A Voice of Insurgency, printed for the Author 1916.
3. A Flame from the Whins by Meadhbh Caomhanach,
Enniscorthy printed, n.d. The first item signed by author on hf.
title, & also inscribed in another hand. All orig. printed wrappers,
good. Scarce item. (3)
Signed Presentation Copy
[O’Caoimh (Padraig, or Paudie)] Figgis (Darrell) A Vision of Life
[Poems] 8vo L. 1909. FIRST EDN., Signed Pres. Copy, inscribed
‘To P. O’Keefe with kind regards 25/11/13’, orig. cloth, gilt, but
with traces of label.
* P. O’Keefe is almost certainly Padraig (Paudie) O’Caoimh,
a close friend of Arthur Griffith and Sec. of Sinn Fein 1918.
Both O’Caoimh & Figgis were active in Sinn Fein and the
Irish Volunteers; both took part in the arms landings in 1914.
O’Caoimh, from Cork, was joint Treasurer of Sinn Fein from 1910.
he was involved in Eoin Mc Neill’s efforts to call off the Rising, but
took part himself in one of the O’Connell St. garrisons. After the
rising he was jailed in Lewes; later he supported the Treaty and
became a Seanad Eireann Official. Figgis born in Rathmines, was
elected joint Hon. Sec. of Sinn Fein in 1917. He was later a ProTreaty T.D. & acting chairman of the committee which drafted
the Constitution of The Irish Free State. (1)
337
338
339
De Burca (S.)
The Soldier’s Song - The Story of Peadar Kearney, 8vo D. 1957.
FIRST EDN., thus., signed by Author, illus., d.w. Good.
Shooting of Francis Sheehy Skeffington
Edelstein (Jos.) American Writer. Publisher. Echo of Irish
Rebellion 1916, Verbatim Report of the Proceedings before the
Royal Commission. Vindication of Mr. Joseph Edelstein. 8vo D.
(J.T. Drought) n.d. [c. 1933]. FIRST EDN., 64pp. with illustrated
frontis., orig. ptd. wrappers, foxed & loose. Ex. Rare.
* Edelstein, an American writer became implicated by accident
with the arrest and subsequent execution of Francis Sheehy
Skeffington. This document reprints the entire evidence taken
by the Royal Commission of Inquiry, and exonerated Edelstein of
any wrong doing. (1)
€300 - 400
With Illustrations by Maud Gonne Young (Ella)
The Rose of Heaven, Poems. 4to D. (The
Candle Press) 1920. LIM. EDN. 81 (350). with
illustrations by Maud Gonne, uncut, original
decorated boards.
* The was the last book issued by The Candle
Press before it changed its name. V. Scarce.
Caricatures:
O’Connor (V.L.) A Book of Caricatures, 4to
Dundalk n.d. (1916), 18 port. plts., orig. cloth
backed decor. ptd. boards.
* Includes portraits of Eoin Mac Neill, Douglas
Hyde, Count Plunkett, Dick Fitzgerald etc.
(1)
€200 - 300
Sean O’Casey’s History of the Citizen Army
O’Cathasaigh (P.) [Sean O’Casey]. The Story of
the Irish Citizen Army, sm. 8vo D. (Maunsel &
Co.) 1919. FIRST EDN., hf. title, 72pp., orig.
ptd. wrappers with adverts. A very desirable
copy of this rare history.
€300 - 400
€100 - 150
335
The Miser’s Gold and other Stories, 8vo D.
1970. FIRST EDN., illus. cloth, & d.w. Signed
by Eamon de Valera & Sinead de Valera on
front loose blank; •also Mac Manus (M.J.)
Eamon de Valera. A Biography, D. 1944.
FIRST EDN., port. frontis. orig. cloth. From
the Library of President Sean T. O’Ceallaigh,
with his bookplate. Good. (2)
€600 - 800
€300 - 400
334
[De Valera] de Valera (Sinead)
€250 - 350
Cavanagh (Maeve)
€300 - 400
- Dublin Brigade Review, 4to D. 1939. sole
Edition, illus., orig. cold. printed wrappers.
An important record, profusely illustrated
with rare photographs etc., and with detailed
accounts of the different Dublin Battalions
active during Ireland’s troubled period of
rebellion and Civil War. (10
A collection of material assembled by Padraic
O’Farrell in preparing his published biography of the legendary Republican leader, Gen.
Sean Mac Eoin, saved from execution in
1921 by Michael Collins as a specific condition of the ‘Truce’ with Britain.
Saorstat Eireann Official Handbook 1932
€150 - 200
€150 - 250
329
336
€150 - 200
€180 - 250
328
BOOKS OF REPUBLICAN INTEREST
A small collection in a box, including Rebel Cork’s Fighting Story
1916-21, first edition 1947; David Hogan [i.e. Frank Gallagher],
The Four Glorious Years, first edition 1953, worn wrapper. (2)
340
[Erskine Childers]
Coffey (Diarmuid) ‘O’Neill & Ormond, A
Chapter in Irish History’ 8vo D. & L. 1914.
First Edition., cloth
Inscribed presentation copy from the author
‘to Erskine Childers from his friend and
admirer the author.’ The book is also dedicated to Childers, who was a neighbour of the
author, living in Co. Wicklow.
€120 - 150
65
Lot 331
Lot 335
Lot 330
Lot 328
Lot 327
Lot 332
Lot 336
Lot 333
Lot 337
Lot 334
Lot 340
66
341
Parnell:
O’Brien (R. Barry) ‘The Life of Charles Stewart
Parnell’ 2 vols. L. 1889; Harrison (H.) ‘Parnell
Vindicated’, L. 1931, port. frontis; Kettle (L.J)
‘Material for Victory - The Memoirs of Andrew
J. Kettle, right-hand man to Charles S. Parnell’;
O’Broin (L.) ‘Parnell’, D.1937
(5)
345
Oglaigh na h’Eireann:
‘Engineering Handbook No. 1’
Irish Army Official Publications. 12mo D. 1921.
Marked ‘Private and Confidential’. Illus. & folding diagram, orig. green cloth. Scarce
349
printed by Martin Lester, Dublin, n.d. c.1922;
together with ‘A Record of the Irish Rebellion
of 1916’ printed by the Office of Irish Life,
Dublin, n.d. c. 1917, each profusely illustrated
and recently rebound in green cloth.
€100 - 200
€100 - 150
342
‘Arthur Griffith Michael Collins’
346
€200 - 300
Irish Military:
Le Gratton (Lieut.-Col. G.) The Campaigns
and History of the Royal Irish Regiment
From 1684 to 1902, roy 8vo Edin. & L. 1911.
FIRST EDN., Frontis. fac-simile, 3 plts., &
8 fold. maps, t.e.g., orig. cloth, gilt decor.
Good.
350
347
Military:
Mac Donagh (Michael) ‘The Irish at the
Front’, Intro. by John Redmond, M.P. 8vo L.
1916. FIRST EDN., orig. cloth. A good copy.
351
€150 - 250
[O’Connell (Daniel)]
‘Shaw’s Authenticated Report of the Irish State
Trials, 1844’ 8vo D. 1844, 678pp., lacks front
cover; O’ Connell (D.) ‘A Memoir of Ireland
Native and Saxon, Vol. 1 [All Published], D. 1843,
cont. hf. calf, top of spine lacking; O’Flanagan
(J. Rod.) ‘The Bar Life of O’Connell, sm. 8vo D.
1869. First Edition. boards; MacIntyre (A.) ‘The
Liberator’, L. 1965, d.w.; & 1 other.
(5)
€150 - 250
Published by authority of the O’Connell
Centenary Committee, printed by Joseph
Dollard, Dublin, 1878. portrait frontis,
attractively illustrated, orig. decor. cloth,
gilt.
Curtis (Robert), ‘The History of the Royal Irish
Constabulary’,
published by Moffat & Company, Dublin,
1869.
€250 - 350
344
‘O’Connell, Centenary Record 1875’,
€150 - 250
Republican Interest:
Figgis (Darrell) ‘A Chronicle of Jails, D. 1917;
‘The Gaelic State in the Past & Future’ D. 1917;
‘The Historic Case for Irish Independence’, D.
1918; ‘The Sinn Fein Leaders of 1916’, 8vo D. 1917,
with photos., & lists; MacArdle (D.) ‘Tragedies
of Kerry 1922 - 1923’, D [1924]; A.E. [George
Russell], ‘National Being - Some Thoughts of An
Irish Polity, 8vo D. [1918] inscribed by Robert
Barton on front cover; & 1 other, all original
wrappers. As one lot. Good. (7)
‘The Liberator, His Life & Times Political,
Social & Religious’, thick 4to Kenmare
Publications 1872. FIRST EDN., portrait
frontis, engraved plate, text illustrations
& text within decorated border thro-out,
a.e.g., orig. decor. cloth, gilt, with portraits. Good & Rare.
€300 - 500
€150 - 250
343
Cusack (M.F.)
€200 - 300
348
Irish Military:
Cooper (Bryan) The Tenth (Irish) Division
in Gallipoli, With Appreciations by Mr.
Asquith, Balfour, Sir Edward Carson and Mr.
John Redmond. 8vo
L. 1918. FIRST EDN., hf. title, frontis, fold.
map & 17 illus. on 15 plts., cont. green cloth.
Scarce. (1)
€150 - 250
352
Tales of the R.I.C.
published by William Blackwood and
Sons, Edinburgh and London, 1922,
314pp, green cloth covers.
€100 - 200
67
Lot 341
Lot 342
Lot 344
Lot 343
Lot 345
Lot 346
Lot 349
Lot 350
Lot 347
Lot 351
Lot 348
Lot 352
68
353
A Soldier’s Church of England Prayerbook,
356
stamped ‘Royal Army Chaplain’s Dept.
Palace Barracks, Holywood, 1916
Together with a contemporary St. Patrick’s
day card.
€30 - 50
Das geheimnisvolle Schiff,
by Captain Karl Spindler - autographed copy
Published Berlin 1921. (Published in English as
The Mystery of the Casement Ship, Berlin 1931.)
Spindler captained the Aud, which attempted
to land arms for the Volunteers in Kerry in
1916. This copy is signed by Spindler, and dated
Koblenz (?) 20.4.1930.
360
€80 - 120
354
Eamon De Valera
A copy of his biography by The Earl of
Longford and Thomas P.O’Neill, Published
Gill and Macmillan, Dublin, Second
impression 1970.
Together with a collection of ten caricatures from ‘Punch’, dating from 1932-40,
featuring De Valera.
357
The Anti-Jacobin or Weekly Examiner Vol II, 1799.
€100 - 200
361
THE BELFAST POGROM 1920-1922
A very rare printed volume entitled ‘Facts and
Figures of the Belfast Pogrom 1920-1922’, by
‘G.B. Kenna’ [actually Fr. John Hassan], Dublin:
O’Connell Publishing Co., 1922, orig. printed
wrappers with folding map.
This work was reportedly commissioned by
the Free State government, possibly at Michael
Collins’ instigation, to document the notorious
Belfast pogroms in which hundreds of Catholics
(and also some Protestants) were driven from
their homes and workplaces, and hundreds were
killed. The work was set up in type, but publication was cancelled, apparently because the
authorities feared its publication would further
inflame sectarian tensions. It is believed that
only eighteen copies were bound up, of which this
must be one. An exceptionally rare item.
€500 - 800
SINN FEIN LECTURES.
Maire nic Shuibhne [MacSwiney], Where we
Stand Now: The Truth about the Republic.
Printed wrappers, Sinn Fein Ardchomhairle,
Dublin 1924.
With
Irish Citizenship, by Dr. Conn MacMurchadha
ME. Printed wrappers, Sinn Fein Ardchomhairle
n.d. [1924?].
(2)
€100 - 200
‘FOR NEITHER KING NOT
KAISER’
A typescript history by Diarmuid Breathnach
of the 1916 Rising and its historical roots,
dated Dublin 1975, some 600 pages and
appendices, quarto, strongly bound in buckram, apparently unpublished, top copy with
amendments, probably a unique copy.
The writer is presumably the former RTE
Librarian who has compiled extensive biographical dictionaries of the Gaelic League.
€300 - 500
362
Irish Political Carachiture, 1918
Portrait of Royal Irish Rifles Armament
Officer, standing smoking a pipe whilst grasping a hare and shotgun.
Mixed media, 60 x 45cm
Signed indistinctly
200-300
363
359
The Significance of Sinn Fein - Psychological,
Political and Economic. Dublin, Martin
Lester, n.d., wrappers, circa 1920. The author
was one of the founders of the Citizen Army.
With an issue of The Socialist Review (AugSept. 1916) containing an article on The Sinn
Fein Rebellion by Eva Gore Booth (sister of
Countess Markiewicz); and an issue of Labour
Monthly (April 1936) including an article by
Pat Devine on Easter Week 1916.
(3)
€150 - 250
€100 - 200
358
Single volume, from March 19, 1798, to July
9, 1798, disbound but text complete, with
no loose pages.
Much material covering rebellion in
Ireland. For example, May 28th, page 375:
“It appears … that a general rising of the
Disaffected was to have taken place in
Dublin.” More content on pages 403, 439,
441, 473, 510, etc.
Mentions alleged lies concerning General
Dundas “forbearing to cut to pieces 4,000
deluded beings who offered to surrender”
(p512). Also has comment on allegations
surrounding the apprehension of Lord
Edward Fitzgerald (p601).
* The Anti-Jacobin consisted of 36 issues
printed from November 20, 1797 until July
9, 1798. These 36 issues amounted to only
288 pages; however, the Anti-Jacobin is
considered to be one of the most influential
and effective periodicals published for both
literature and politics. There are two significant stylistic features of the Anti-Jacobin
that contribute to these positive remarks:
the mass amount of factual material and
the straightforward, brief nature that the
material was presented in.
1809 Reprint by the Hibernia Press, Temple Lane,
Dublin.w.a.f.
€60 - 100
355
Spencer (Edmund), ‘A view of the State of Ireland’
J.R. WHITE [Capt.]
Irish School,
Two potraits, early 1920s, one of a Irish Free State Officer
Both, Oil on canvas laid on board, 38 x 28cm
(unframed)
Inscribed indistinctly in pencil verso;
(2)
€400-600
69
Lot 355
Lot 354
Lot 353
Lot 358
Lot 357
Lot 362
Lot 356
Lot 361
Lot 359
Lot 363
70
71
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Independence
Part II
Commences at 6.00pm
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72
Lots 401, 400(2), 401
400
Irish Commemorative Figures:
A scarce pair of Victorian Staffordshire porcelain
Figures, “The Irish Piper,” and “the Irish Colleen,” each
approx. 34cms (13 1/4”)h. (2)
Lots 403, 402, 404, 405, 407, 406
404
€200 - 300
1798: A rare Victorian
commemorative Staffordshire Figure
402
Irish Commemorative
Staffordshire:
405
A large and important Victorian porcelain
commemorative figure of “Daniel O’Connell,”
approx.
42cms (18 1/2”)high. (1)
€200 - 300
€220 - 350
406
of “Lord Edward Who Fears to Speak of ‘98” 1798 1898, approx.
37cms (14 1/2”) high. (1)
of “Henry Joy Mc Cracken, Who Fears to Speak of ‘98”,
1798 - 1898, approx.
36cms (14”)h.
Rare. (1)
€200 - 300
Parnell (C.S.)
A good 19th Century porcelain Commemorative
Jug, “Charles S. Parnell, M.P.,”
20cms (8”)h. (1)
€175 - 225
409
1798: A 19th Century porcelain Commemorative Jug,
“1798 - The Death of Father Michael Murphy,”
21cms (8 1/2”)h. (1)
€125 - 175
410
Sexton (T.) M.P.
Limerick. A very rare commemorative porcelain
Figure of ‘T. Sexton, M.P.’, approx.
38cms (15”)high. (1)
Commemorative Jug.
A rare Irish Nationalist Commemorative porcelain Jug, decorated with harps and shamrocks,
22cms (8 3/4”)h. (1)
€150 - 200
€200 - 300
€200 - 300
403
O’Connell (Daniel)
A rare pair of commemorative Victorian Figures “Irish
National Foresters,” two figures in ceremonial attire on
horseback, approx.
38cms (15”)h. (2)
408
of “Theobald Wolfe Tone, who Fears to Speak of
‘98,” 1798 - 1898, approx.
36cms (14”)h. (1)
€200 - 300
401
Lots 409, 410, 408
411
407
Parnell (Chas. S.)
A rare Victorian commemorative Staffordshire
Figure of Charles Stewart Parnell dressed as
an ancient Irish Warrior with large shillelagh,
standing in an orange and white cloak and holding a green flag with gold harp, and a St. George
Cross, approx..
36cms (14”)h. (1)
€200 - 300
Commemorative Plaque:
Mc Donagh (Dan) designer. An oval commemorative Arklow Pottery Wall Plaque, the obverse
depicting side profile of P.H. Pearse, and a painted
quote in Irish and English surrounding “On the
Road before Me I set my Face,” the reverse with
the last sentence from the 1916 Proclamation and
the signatories. An attractive Commemorative
Piece, slight crack, as is. Rare. (1)
€120 - 160
73
412
Important Printed Broadside
Co. Wexford Rebellion: To the People of the County of Wexford...
Signed by Order, J. Johnston, Pro. Sec., At a Meeting of the County
of Wexford Association of the Friends of the Constitution, Liberty
and Peace, on the 26th Jan. 1793, the following Address was agreed
upon, Cornelius Grogan, Esq. in the Chair. An original broadside,
approx. printed one side only, in two columns, with decor. wd.-cut
border, inscribed on reverse “Ld. Loftus”. V. Good. Ex. Rare. (1)
€600 - 800
413
The Prophetic thoughts of “Meagher of The Sword”
Lot
Lot
Meagher (Thomas Francis) An original manuscript verse of eight
lines in pen and ink, and signed in the hand of Thomas Francis
Meagher, as ‘President of the Grattan Confederate Club of Dublin’
at Richmond Bridewell, Dec. 18th, 1848.
‘In my boyhood I had a strange feeling
that I would die in the noon of my day Not quietly with the silent grave stealing
But torn, like a blasted oak, sudden away.
With this feeling upon me, all feverish and glowing,
I rushed up the rugged path, panting, to Fame I snatched at my laurels while yet they were growing
And won for my portion the half of a name.’
On a single sheet, one side only, torn at folds. Together with a copy
of Thomas Davis’ “Literary and Historical Essays,” 1846, signed
in preliminaries with another verse by Thomas Francis Meagher,
member of the Irish Confederation, and also Kevin Izod O’Doherty,
Richmond Prison, and with further inscriptions by Meagher within.
In need of rebinding, upr. cover detached, lower cover lacking,
Lot
w.a.f. Lot
* A most interesting lot, with Meaghers original prophetic verse.
Ex.
Rare. (2)
Lot
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€700 - 1000
414
Irish Political Leaders
Photographs: A rare collection of 17 Victorian carte-de-visite portrait Photographs of Fenian & other Irish Political leaders, including John O’Leary (3), Thos. Clarke Luby, and his cousin Edward
Mulrany, Ed. Duffy, James Stephens, Stephen J. Meaney, Fenian
Convict, Thomas Francis Train, etc., also Michael Davitt, & Charles
Stewart Parnell (4), all good. As a coll. of photographs, w.a.f. Rare.
(1)
Lot
€500 - 700
Lot
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Lot
74
415
Special Edition
1916 - Dolmen Press:
1916 The Easter Proclamation of the Irish Republic, 8vo D. (Dolmen
Press) 1975. Special Limited Edn. No. 125 (125), printed in colour, with
illustration, full morocco, in orig. slip case. Scarce. (1)
€200 - 300
416
Republican Post & Propaganda Labels
A good collection of original Republican Postage Stamps, including a
fine mint block of ‘Erie Puist’ 8 different designs which was issued by N.
American sympathisers immediately after the execution of the Leaders
of the Rising; the 6d Stamp issued by the I.R.A. in cork; 3 blocks of 4,
& one single ‘Celtic Cross’ Sinn Fein propaganda Labels; 2 blocks of 4,
Wolfhound issues, a large collection of overprinted Irish stamps, some
‘Home Rule’ and Manchester Martyrs propaganda labels, good selection of Commemorative Republican Portrait Issues, & similar First Day
Covers, etc., etc. a good lot, as a coll., w.a.f. (1)
€400 - 600
417
[Citizen Army] Easter Week Rising, 1916.
Stephen’s Green Garrison - Deceased Members. Names Inscribed by
Senior Surviving Officers of Garrison. A broadside poster / placard
printed one side only, as above, approx. 18” x 12 1/2” wide, with manuscript names of nine members executed (including Michael Mallin),
killed in actin or died from wounds, followed by a further twenty
names of those who died in after years, headed by Madam Markievicz,
and signed at bottom of poster by Richard Mac Cormick, Capt. I.C.A.
Most of those listed are members of the Citizen Army, with a few
members of the Irish Volunteers, and one of Fianna, Undated, possibly
1930’s, possibly prepared for a reunion, stained.
*A Scarce and unusual document. (1)
€450 - 650
75
418
1916 PRISON DIARY
An important manuscript Diary describing a Volunteer’s arrest and detention in Dublin after the Easter Rising of
1916, including a last conversation with Sean Mac Diarmada at Richmond Barracks, written in pencil on both sides of
a single long sheet of flimsy paper, probably toilet or cleaning paper from the barracks.
The manuscript is unsigned, and the Volunteer is identified only as ‘Seamus’; he may have been a post office worker.
He describes how he was arrested at his home in Kingstown on the evening of Sunday April 30th (a day after the
Rising ended), when detectives arrived to search the house. They found copies of ‘The Spark’ and ‘Irish Freedom’, a
letter from Cumann na mBan, and an empty cartridge case, and claimed he had been seen by neighbours with a rifle
on Mellifont Avenue. He was taken to Kingstown Police Station where he spent the night. He expected to be tried, or
perhaps shot without trial, as someone had said there was to be no quarter.
The following day (1 May) his wife was allowed to bring him food; later he and other prisoners were marched under
armed escort to the quay, put on a boat and brought to the Kish lightship where they spent the night. On Tuesday 2
May they were brought in a motor van to Richmond Barracks, and put in a crowded room with about forty
suspects, including looters, some of them wounded; one of those in the room was ‘poor Sean Mac Diarmada’, whom
he evidently knew.
Early on 3 May, there were some reports of shots - ‘I suppose they were the death knell of Pearse etc., RIP.’ They were
given bully beef, some biscuits and tea. On a visit to the lavatory, ‘I had my last chat with Sean [Mac Diarmada]. ‘O
Seamus, said he. Dia a’s Muire agat Sean, said I. Then he said, How are you feeling, said Sean. I replied, Well, and
hoped he was the same. He said he was, and I was marched by never to see poor Sean again.’
On May 4th, several men were sick, the room was very dirty, an officer came in who had heard someone curse. He
had two revolvers, and threatened to ‘plug’ the first man he heard, called us a lot of ‘dirty skunks’. No water supplied
during day, ‘men ill during night, room very dirty’.
On 5 May the room was becoming unhealthy, some buckets and mops were supplied and the room was cleaned out.
Later they were taken out and marched through town in heavy rain, past Four Courts, O’Connell St., Eden Quay,
Liberty Hall, ‘passing which the soldier recommended us to ‘cast our 2 F- eyes on F- Liberty Hall for the last F-g time
and see what they F-g well done to it.’ An officer ordered the men if any signalling was attempted, ‘to bayonet him’.
They were embarked on a steamer and placed in the foreport, used for cattle. The smell was dreadful, due to the effects
of the bully beef, but ‘we left Dublin singing and then we said the Rosary’.
On May 6th they arrived at Holyhead and were taken by train to Wakefield Prison, where Seamus was placed in Cell
B2-37, which perhaps may assist in identifying him. They were given bread and butter and a bed to sleep on. ‘Thank
God for the bed - this was the first time I had my clothes off since night [of] April 29-30’.
The account breaks off there; presumably it was smuggled out of Wakefield. It is a unique and remarkable document, a convincing and unemotional account of what must have been a frightening experience. It is probably the best
account of the dreadful conditions faced by those held in Richmond Barracks. The handwriting is faded and difficult
to follow in places, but with patience it can be worked out. The paper is very fragile, and should not be removed from
the plastic sleeve.
Sean Mac Diarmada was detained after the Republican surrender at Moore St., but was not recognised as one of the
leaders, and was taken to Richmond Barracks with many others. He was in line for transport to the docks when a
detective named Hoey picked him out and sent him back, to face court martial and execution with James Connolly on
May 12, the last of the leaders to face the firing squad.
As a m/ss., w.a.f. Full transcript available with this lot. (1)
€700 - 900
419
Signed by the Contributors
Gilligan (O.)ed.
The Birmingham Six, An Appalling Vista, 8vo D. (Litereire Publishers) 1990,
Limited Edn., No. 79 (100), signed by L. le Brocquy (illus.), S. Deane, P. Durcan,
P. Galvin, S. Heaney, T. Kinsella, & F. Stuart, [Contributors], cloth & d.j.
Good clean copy. Scarce. (1)
€700 - 900
76
420
Kilmainham Female Hunger Strike
April 1923
Autographs: A copy of The Christ, The Son of God, by Abbe Fouard, 1921, with signature of Una Bean an Ghordunaigh, and autographed inside front cover by female
participants in the Kilmainham hunger strike of March-April 1923, including ‘Cait
bean Mhichil Ui Cheallachain [widow of the murdered former Lord Mayor, Michael
O’Callaghan] T.D. Luimneach, 16.4.1923;’ Maire nic Suibhne [sister of Terence Mac
Sweeney] T.D. Corcaigh, same date; ‘Eibhlin Ni Riain [Nell Ryan, sister of Dr. Jim
Ryan], same date, 25th day of Hunger Strike’; Kitty M. Costello, 28.4.23, 32nd day of
Hunger Strike, with reference to an olive oil stain on the book; Annie O’Neill 20.4.23,
28th day of Hunger Strike, and two later signatures including Cris Stafford, 31.7.23.
Over 90 women went on hunger strike in Kilmainham March 1923 over withdrawal
of postal facilities. This protest ended successfully on 22 March, but by then Eibhlin
ni Riain had started another strike for release, and was joined by others [see Mc Coole
‘No Ordinary Women’]. Surprisingly Macardle [“The Irish Republic”] does not mention this second hunger strike. Some of the hunger-strikers were released towards the
end of April, after concerns about their health, and after De Valera had signed his
‘dump arms’ order ending the Civil War. Later, in Oct. / Nov. 1923, there was a mass
hunger strike by remaining Republican prisoners in all the jails to seek release. An
important item as an association, w.a.f. (1)
€500 - 700
421
Mac Manus (M.J.)
Eamon de Valera, A Biography, 8vo D. (Talbot Press) 1944, First Edn. signed by Eamon
de Valera and the author, orig. cloth and d.j., some wear, otherwise a good copy. (1)
€220 - 280
422
Cumann na mBan Autograph Book 1922 - 23
Female Prisons: A very important Autograph Book containing the
signatures of female prisoners in Kilmainham, North Dublin Union and other prisons
c. 1922 - 23, assembled by Caitlin Ni Bhriain.
Signatures include, Sighle Bowen; Mollie Hyland, Agnes Sheehy (‘better known in
N.D.U. as “Buffalo Bill”), Sighle Nic Amhlaoibh (Humphries), Kit Bulfin (later wife
of Sean Mc Bride), Julia Hassett, Eibhlin de Barra (Kevin Barry’s sister), Connie Nic
Mhurchadha (Murphy), C. in C. of Sisterhood, N.D.U., June 1923, Anna Kelly, Lili Ni
Bhronain (Lily Brennan), Maighread Ni Scinadoir (Margaret Skinnider, author), Nora
Connolly O’Brien, Grania Bean Sheosaimh Ui Pluingceid (Grace Plunkett) Nil Bean
Mhic Amhlaoibh (Mrs. Humphries), Aine Ui Rathghaille, Annie Timoney, etc., etc.,
approx. 48 names in all; also with a separate list of signatures (towards the end of book)
of eight women who were on hunger strike from Wed. 24.10.23 for 31 days, including
Eibhlin de Barra (Kevin Barry’s sister) Sighle Nic Amhlaoibh (The O’Rahilly’s niece),
Aine Ni Rathghaille (The O’Rahilly’s sister), and the compiler Caithlin Ni Bhriain.
In a small black notebook, in excellent condition. As a manuscript, w.a.f. Extremely
Rare.
* A most unusual compilation, including as it does many very rare signatures; for
some reason autograph books of this nature were very uncommon among the female
prisoners. (1)
€700 - 900
77
423
Sean Lemass’s Signed Copy of The Constitution
“Bunreacht na hEireann.
Constitution of Ireland (1937)”
A fine copy of the special signed edition limited for Cabinet Members of
De Valera’s new Constitution. Roy 8vo a.e.g., on heavy paper and specially
bound in green morocco, and signed on a preliminary page by De Valera
himself and also by Sean T. O’Ceallaigh, Oscar Traynor, P. Ruttledge, Sean
F. Lemass, Gearoid O’Beolain (Boland), Frank Aiken, Seamus O’Riain (Dr.
James Ryan), Tomas O’Deirg (Derrig), and Sean Mac Entee. V. good.
Copies of this special edition are very rare, and were distributed only to
members of the Cabinet and some members of the Diplomatic Corps. This
present copy belonged to Sean Lemass, then Minister for Industry and
Commerce. A highly desirable item.
Provenance: From Sean Lemass, T.D., to the present owner.
€3000 - 5000
78
424
Signed by Padraig Pearse
Signatory of the 1916 Proclamation
Mac Piarais (Padraic) Iosagan agus Scealta Eile, 8vo, D. (Connradh na
Gaeilge) 1907, First Edn. Signed by the Author, on f.e.p., illus. by Beatrice
Elvery, some m/ss notes, ptd. wrappers. Good clean copy. Scarce. (1)
€1400 - 1800
425
Photograph:
An original black and white Press Photograph of a group of marching
women in “Cumann na mBan” attire, the reverse stamped 29 October 1920
and entitled Dublin Sinn Fein Women Volunteers to “Carry On” Against
England approx. 14cms x 19.5cms. Good and Scarce. (1)
€150 - 200
426
The Four Courts Garrison
Reunion
Civil War, 1922: An Official Dinner Menu for the commemorative dinner
to mark the 28th Anniversary of the siege of the Four Courts on the 1st
July 1950, the cover design by C. Mc Carthy, the back signed by members
of the Garrison and also guests at the re-union, including Sean Lemass,
Joe Cotton, Dessy O’Reilly, Dick Grogan, Seamus O’Riain, Domhnall
O’Raghallaigh and others; together with an original Press Photograph of
the Four Courts on Fire. An unusual and rare lot. Good. (2)
€350 - 450
426A
Mac Swiney (T.)
A reproduction Photograph of Mac Swiney in graduate attire, together with
a signed cheque for £20, dated 10.IV.1920, for the Munster & Leinster Bank,
counter signed on reverse, Fred J. Cronin, a nice lot. Good. (2)
€280 - 350
79
MICHAEL COLLINS [1890-1922]
The following collection of Michael Collins letters and documents comes from a family source, initially from his elder sister
Johanna (Hannie), to whom almost all of the letters were written. Collins was the youngest of eight children. Hannie, the
third-born, was already living and working in London when Michael joined her in 1906 as a young man of fifteen, to work
as a junior post office clerk. He lived in her flat (she was unmarried) for the next nine years, and she remained a close confidant thereafter. A co-worker in London, John McCaffrey, ‘was convinced that Michael Collins owed his success in London
to the influence and cheerful companionship of his sister Hannah . This exceptionally clever girl passed the open competitive examination for lady clerkships in the British Civil Service and was appointed to the permanent staff of the Post Office
Savings Bank [in] 1899. This was a great achievement for an Irish girl in her teens.’ Collins told an acquaintance that Hannie
was ‘the only member of the family who was any good’. She herself said she and Michael thought alike about many things,
though not about politics [all quoted in Peter Hart: Mick, the Real Michael Collins].
Collins wrote a great many letters, but most of them
have to do with business of one sort or another. He had
few intimate friends, and a personal correspondence
such as this is rare. There are many interesting things
in the letters, not least a strong vein of pro-German
comments during the later stages of the First World
War. Although Hannie was not one of Collins’ ‘agents’,
she evidently helped him on occasion, and there are
some cryptic instructions which further research may
elucidate.
There is much family news. Mary and Katie are his
sisters, also Celestine who is a nun; ‘Kathy’ or ‘Katty’ is
the wife of his brother Johnny. It is notable that even at
the height of his commitments in 1918-19 he still found
time regularly to visit his Aunt Hannah, and was able to
do so without attracting attention.
Unusually, Collins signs as ‘Michael’ (not the Irish form
‘Mícheál’ which he generally used after 1916). With
only two exceptions the letters are all handwritten; evidently Collins did not wish to involve his typists in his
correspondence with Hannie.
The letters have been inherited by direct family descent,
and have never been on the market. They were seen by
the historian Margery Forester, who quotes from them
sparingly in her book on Collins, but apparently were
not seen by later biographers.
80
427 MICHAEL COLLINS
A short ALS from D. Brennan to ‘Dear Mr. Collins’, dated 12 May 1911,
apologising for ‘the informal way we have asked you to act as linesman for
us tomorrow’, with details of referee, starting time etc. With related envelope addressed to Mr. M. Collins headed ‘On His Majesty’s Service’.
During his years in London, Collins was an active member of the
Geraldines and other GAA clubs. The tone of the letter suggests that Collins
was annoyed at not receiving appropriate notice.
Provenance: Collins family, by descent.
€800 - 1200
428
MICHAEL COLLINS
A short autograph note signed ‘M.’ [to his sister Johanna], on a card, January
17th [1916], ‘I have arrived safely and am looking round here [Dublin] for
the present. Am seriously thinking of running down to see [his sister] Kate
for a few days. Will call on some of the relations tomorrow. Had a good
crossing & palled with 2 of the fellows in that carriage. Travelled saloon no
extra .. Will write at length very soon. Not feeling at all happy, lonely you
know. Fondest love, M.’
With a blank envelope inscribed presumably by Johanna ‘1st. after leaving London 1916’. Kate was the youngest of his sisters, next to him in the
family.
€1500 - 2500
81
429
MICHAEL COLLINS
A good ALS to his sister Hannie, c/o his Aunt Hannah in Dublin, 27.1.16,
4 pp. He is working three days a week 10 to 4 as financial adviser to Count
Plunkett ‘for which I get lunch each day and £1 a week. There are a few
other part time jobs I have in view & something may come of them’. He
discusses his plans for a visit to the south, asks is the flat lonely without
him, enquires about a box which has not been delivered by the Railway
Co., explains he is writing this letter under trying disadvantages. ‘Aunt
H[annah] is talking rubbish about my forefathers earning bread & butter
honestly, & who are the English but the Germans, why don’t I join the army
to earn a decent honest living, you never heard the like!’
He asks her to forward anything delivered for him in London to Dublin ‘as
I suppose I shall be in touch with this place at any rate unless something
expected turns up’ (underlined in original).
Count Plunkett, father of Joseph Mary Plunkett, had a large farm at
Kimmage where a number of young IRB men were accommodated early in
1916; it is said grenades were also made there. Collins left his accountancy
job in London late in 1915 apparently because he had word that something
was to happen soon in Dublin - perhaps the ‘something expected’ to which
he makes a significant reference. Three months later he was in the GPO
with the rank of staff captain, as aide-de-camp to Joseph Mary Plunkett.
With an unaddressed envelope from Hotel Metropole, Cork.
€2000 - 3000
430
MICHAEL COLLINS
Two ALS to his sister Hannie dated 3.2.16 and 29.2.16 (each 2 pp, single
sheet), one with related envelope, the first acknowledging a letter probably
from a former employer, he has had a frightful cold, ‘nearly pegged out in
fact, was told by my medical adviser to go to a sanatorium’, still has a ‘coff’,
still here [at his aunt Hanna’s] but doesn’t intend staying, asks about any
washing that came for him.
The second letter thanks her for sending on the washing; yes, he had heard
about Lily Lynam [she married a soldier] - ‘in fact I was very near of making a fine old mess of things - that is to say I almost called there on the eve
of her wedding - wouldn’t I have been up the pole, what?’ He asks her to
send a few of his books including Dineen’s Irish Dictionary; says he was
interested to hear about the children. ‘I ‘d like to see them just once again - I
do be often thinking of you so I do, but perhaps we may meet again’, still
looking for digs, nothing doing yet. [The children are not Johanna’s, for
she never married].
(2)
€1500 - 2000
82
431
MICHAEL COLLINS
A good ALS to his sister Hannie, 12.3.16, 2 pp (single sheet), with related envelope. Collins seems to be covering
his tracks; presumably by this time he was fully aware of the IRB’s plans for Easter. He says the address he gave
in his last letter [17 Upr Ormond Quay] will at all times be suitable, as he is well known there. ‘If there are any
enquiries you can tell them anything - for instance that I have gone home being only temply resident in London
and that you don ‘t know my whereabouts as I shall no longer be here when this reaches you .. as far as business
goes I have no cause to grumble - nice hours &c. and the work is suitable enough too - accountancy - and with
a little overtime in the “financial advising” line’; also mentioning some London acquaintances who ‘haven’t yet
realised that I’m not going back there after my holiday .. It would make you die to hear Aunt H talking about
the things she assumes you did for me - you know what I mean - a million years old idea that anything feminine
should take care of anything masc[uline]. I’ve been making every effort to get out but it’s no good fighting with
them as they mean well ..’’.
€2000 - 3000
432
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘The heart-scalding eternal brooding ..’
A fine and important ALS to his sister Johanna from Stafford Jail, 16.5.16 [some two weeks after the end of the
Easter Rising], 3 pp (single folded sheet, on official paper with embossed coat of arms), closely written in pencil,
the first letter he was allowed to write during his detention after the Rising. He says he is ‘fairly well in health
& not more low-spirited than the circumstances compel .. You have no idea of what it’s like - the dreadful
monotony, the heart-scalding eternal brooding on all sorts of things, thoughts of friends dead & living, especially
those recently dead - but above all the time - the horror of the way in which it refuses to pass. However, I suppose
things could be a great deal worse ..’
He asks about his aunt Hannah, who was unwell when he last saw her in Dublin, gives details of moneys taken
from him which may be delivered to his digs, asks for a few good (& long) novels in cheap editions, and if still
at the flat, Heath’s Practical French Grammar; also a large copy book, a pencil or two pointed at both ends, a
piece of India rubber, a couple of magazines, a few dark coloured handkerchiefs, comb, tooth brush, hairbrush,
needle & thread and a few buttons. He may be able to get some clothes from Dublin ‘but they’re not urgent. The
reading matter is.’
He asks her to contact various friends, including Miss Killeen [Susan, apparently a girl-friend], and gives details
of what can and can not be sent to him - breaking off to say that a parcel of chocolate has just arrived from Pat
O’Driscoll. ‘All letters will be censored, so it won’t be any good to say anything interesting in the way of political
news. You, at any rate, won’t have any difficulty in avoiding that pitfall.’
He says he finds it difficult to concentrate. ‘I seem to have lost acquaintance with myself and with the people I
knew. Wilde’s “Reading Jail” keeps on coming up - you remember, “All that we know who lie in jail ..’ [the poem
continues: ‘Is that the walls are strong ..’]
A fine letter, conveying an acute sense of Collins’ pent-up energy and frustration, signed ‘With fondest love /
Michael’. First page a little browned, slightly rubbed at folds. With the official envelope with censor’s stamp and
his prison number F48, also a plain white envelope, both inscribed by Johanna ‘1st letter after 1916 Rising’.
€5000 - 7000
83
433
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘See there are nails in them’
A short ALS to his sister Hannie, 2 pp (single sheet), from Hut 7, Upper Internment Camp,
Frongoch, no censor’s marks, undated, written the day after his arrival [late June 1916], with
an envelope addressed to Hannie, stamp and postmark missing.Although it should have been
high summer, Frongoch was evidently cold and muddy. ‘Arrived here yesterday after a journey thro’ a most engaging country which was the only pleasant part of the proceeding. It is
not nearly so good as Stafford and you know what I thought of that. What I need urgently is
a pair of very heavy strong boots, and a woollen vest. Would you please send me the latter and
ask [his brother] Johnny to send the former .. something like he uses himself, Size 9 and tell
him to see there are nails in them. Do it at once won’t you please .. We are housed in huts each
containing 30 prisoners.’ He also asks her to notify various friends of his address.
€1500 - 2500
435
MICHAEL COLLINS
Trouble at Frongoch
A very good ALS to his sister Hannie, from Bala [i.e. Frongoch], 25.8.16, 2 pp (single sheet),
no censor’s marks. He says most of his correspondence has been returned [by the censor].
‘It’s a great pity I can’t do something to please the censor’s department, but I’m not going to
even at the risk of being cut off altogether, especially when things are as they are at present.
It’s hard to imagine anything in the shape of a man being more like a tyrannical old woman
than the commandant in charge of this place.’ Some time ago, he says, the prisoners refused
an offer of quarrying work at a poor rate of pay, ‘and I think the authorities here considered it
a rebuff - as it was, and took it very badly. Soon afterwards a man of our number was wanted
and it is alleged he refused to answer his name when called. As a result the whole camp had
their letters, visits, and newspapers stopped for a week .. On the same day another man was
sentenced to cells (with bread and water) for forgetting to say ‘Sir’ to an officer .. It is a custom
here to appoint a fatigue of 8 men every day for general scavenging & removing ashes, inside
the wire. About 8 or 10 days ago the particular party that was on for the day was ordered
outside the wires to do scavenging &c. for the soldiers. Of course they refused. They were
immediately sent to cells and since then have been interned in the northern portion of this
camp, being deprived of their letters, newspapers, smoking materials. Every day since 8 men
have been given the same treatment, & the affair still goes on.’
As for the sleeping arrangements, ‘we live in large dormitories the size of which I have told
you. To these we are absolutely confined from 7.30 in the evening until 6.15 in the morning. When one wakes the oppressive atmosphere is really quite terrible .. Mind you I’m not
grumbling in the strict sense, only attempting to point out what a damned pack of hypocrites
these English are ..’
‘Very sorry to see that 2 Zeps [Zeppelins] have been brought down .. I hope the damage was
considerable. It’s a pity you’re in London now ..’
With a small plain envelope marked by Hannie ‘from Frongoch 1916’.
€3000 - 4000
84
436
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘Love your enemies? I don’t!’
A fine ALS to his sister Hannie, 2 pp (single sheet of flimsy paper), evidently from
Frongoch internment camp, undated, apparently not censored, with related envelope postmarked Kensington 26 Oct. 1916.He mentions various family members,
confirms he has received her parcels, describes the ‘huts’ in which the men live,
better than Stafford, the rain gets in but there’s a fire, gives details of the books
available - ‘Service, Swinburne, Shaw, Kipling, Conrad, Chesterton, lots of Irish
Broadsheet stuff, etc.’, mentions the rising cost of living, asks ‘What will it be like
when 300 submarines blockade England as they are going to do from the 1st June
according to the American papers’, says the accusations in the H. of C. about [ill-]
treatment are absolutely true, of course all the MPs are only on for trying to make
capital out of us. ‘Kathleen S. has just sent me a very pleasant pair of socks, if I
could only get puttees! Don’t forget the chocolate occasionally .. Had a long letter
from Celestine [his sister Helena, a nun] a while ago .. God help her, it was full of
prayers about love your enemies which “as you may understand” I don’t a little bit.
It would be well worth doing an eternity in hell to know they were down & out [and]
that we had contributed towards that pleasant result’ [all this in tiny writing down
the upper margin].
A splendid and characteristically combative letter, which certainly would not have
passed censorship. Evidently Collins had already found a way of getting his letters
out unseen.
€3000 - 4000
85
437
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘Material prosperity has ruined them’
A good ALS to his sister Hannie, from Woodfield (the family home in Cork), Friday, late December 1916, 4 pp
(single folded sheet). Grandma is gone, she was dead the day he came, of course it was to be expected that she
couldn’t live much longer, ‘but somehow one had the idea that she was immortal’. Neither Kathy nor Johnny
is well; Kathy took a bad turn after birth of her baby, while Johnny ‘has the most dreadful cough imaginable
and can’t get up at all today.’ ‘From the National point of view I’m not too impressed with the people here. Too
damn careful & cautious. A few old men aren’t too bad - but most of the young ones are the limit. The little
bit of material prosperity has ruined them.’
He asks about peace chances in England; ‘The huns have won easily, & the J.B’s [John Bulls] are slowly realising
that world important fact .. [If there is no armistice] Conscription is certain for this country.’
With related envelope addressed to Miss Joanna Collins, postmarked 28 De[cember] [19]16, marked (presumably by her) ‘lst after release’. Collins was released from Frongoch with other rank-and-file Volunteers at
Christmas 1916; some of the surviving leaders were held for a further six months, which meant that Collins
and his associates had a head-start in reorganising the IRB.
Johnny was Collins’ elder brother, who took over the family’s small farm; Kathy was his wife, sister of Collins’
friend Jack Hurley . She was delicate, and died in 1921 leaving a young family.
€3000 - 4000
438
MICHAEL COLLINS
A good ALS to his sister Johanna, from 44 Mountjoy St., Dublin, marked in her hand ‘Jan. 1917’, with a related
envelope postmarked 23 Jan., 4 pp (single folded sheet), congratulating her on a promotion. ‘What with overtime & the promotion you’ll shortly be a bloated aristocrat out & out.
‘It is now a week since I came up here [Mountjoy St.] .. It’s still a bit of a spectacle although most of the debris
has been cleared away & hoardings have been put up everywhere .. It is only since being released that I’m feeling
to the full all that we have lost in the way of men and workers.’
He has heard that [his sister-in-law] Kathy is going on well, ‘and she wants it. The whole place was in a great
deal of confusion around Christmas - it was pitiful to see Kathy’s solicitude for myself, as if I wasn’t fully well
able to look after myself.’
€2000 - 3000
86
439
MICHAEL COLLINS
A good ALS to his sister Hannie, 24 Feb. 1917, from 44 Mountjoy St. Dublin, 4 pp
(single folded sheet), mentions that ‘a lot of my friends have been taken up - for what
reason I don’t know. No charge is made against them, but they’re being forced to banish themselves from Ireland to some part of England which will be chosen for them
& there they’ll have to support themselves, though how some of them will do it God
knows ..
‘Had a great time down at the North Roscommon by-election. The crowds were splendid. It was really pleasing to see so many old lads coming out in the snow and voting
for Plunkett with the greatest enthusiasm. Practically all the very old people were solid
for us, and on the other end the young ones.’
Count Plunkett [father of the executed Joseph Mary Plunkett] won the North
Roscommon by-election against an Irish Party candidate. The banishments to
England were under the wartime Defence Of the Realm Act [DORA].
With a related envelope.
€2000 - 3000
440
MICHAEL COLLINS
A good ALS to his sister Hannie, 10.3.17, 2 pp, after his release from Frongoch (at
Christmas 1916) and return to Dublin. He apologises for not writing. ‘You’ve simply
no idea of how I’m kept going from morning till night, usually into the next morning.
The actual job entails a very large amount of work and then there are so many other
things .. Very sorry to hear that you personally can’t get potatoes or cheese. Otherwise
though you can imagine what joy it gives me to contemplate the position of the “proud
mistress of the sea”. At the same time the food situation is becoming critical here also,
and it’s difficult to see what is to be done. More trouble I suppose.’
He mentions his sister Katie, who seems to be a bit depressed as usual, may run down
for a few days shortly but difficult to get away. ‘It’s very late now & the fire has gone out
long since so I’m very cold & sleepy too .. Have been writing away - mostly to convicts
- since I came in a couple of hours ago, & now I’m going to dry up.’
After his return to Dublin, Collins was appointed by Tom Clarke’s widow Kathleen to
be a full-time organiser for the Irish Volunteers’ Dependants Fund, a position which
suited him very well, as it put him in touch with the families of the men who had taken
part in the Rising. He was soon well on his way to reorganising the Volunteers and the
IRB, while other more senior leaders remained in detention in Britain until summer.
€2500 - 3500
87
441
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘All my letters are opened’
A very interesting ALS to his sister Hannie, 31 March 1917, from 44 Mountjoy St.,
Dublin, 3 pp. ‘It is sad! sad!! sad!!! that you didn’t like the QH concert. It is likely
though that I might have thought the same thing myself .. I haven’t the prevailing
belief in many conversions to our cause ..’
He mentions meeting a sister of Madge O’Regan. ‘I simply took her off her feet by
going up to her as if I had known her all my life & asking impudently, How’s Madge?
I couldn’t resist it, we’ve seen a lot of each other since as I discovered she was a member of the same Gaelic League Branches as myself.’
On rumours of food shortages in England, ‘I feel about it like I did about the
Zeppelins - simply sorry that there are so many of our Irish people over there.’
He discusses plans to erect temporary Celtic crosses in Glasnevin ‘at the grave of each
of our men .. Later on we will do something of a worthy permanent nature - such as
an arch over the entrance or a big memorial tower.’
He is sorry to hear about her difficulties over coal. ‘It is frightfully dear here also
and distress is spreading. There are still some hundreds of our men unemployed .. Of
course the National Aid is helping them but the monies available for ordinary weekly
cases are rapidly diminishing. Here’s a glorious point. Ireland itself has subscribed
as much as all the rest of the world put together. It would surprise you though the
places we’ve had money from. Barcelona, Madrid, China, Japan! But the small
remote parishes in Ireland with their £50-£80 - great.’ Finally he warns her that ‘All
my letters are opened & I’m being looked after a good deal so be careful about the
things you say.’ With a related envelope.
[Presumably the ‘QH concert’ (Queen’s Hall?) was an attempt to generate support for
the Irish cause among Londoners and London-Irish].
€2000 - 3000
442
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘Tom Ashe has been arrested’
A short ALS to his sister Hannie, 20th Aug 1917, 1 pp, making arrangements for a trip
to Cork with her. ‘The Mail in the morning will suit me very well and as you say we
can have breakfast on the train. I want to call at Cork jail in the morning. I’ll very
likely be able to spend most of the week at home, but I’m afraid it will be necessary for
me to come back for at least two days, but I shall be returning for the Bantry meeting
on the 2nd Sept. .. Tom Ashe has been arrested so that fixes him.’
[Ashe won the major military success of the 1916 Rising, defeating a column of
armed RIC men at Ashbourne. Sentenced to life imprisonment, he was released
in June 1917, but was rearrested a few weeks later for incitement. Back in jail, he
organised a hunger strike for better conditions, but died in September when prison
staff attempted to force-feed him. His death was a great loss to the Volunteers and to
Collins personally.]
€3000 - 4000
88
443
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘Pity the Huns didn’t hit the House of Commons’
An interesting ALS to his sister Hannie, 8th Oct. 1917, 3 pp, from 10 Exchequer St.,
Dublin [office of the Volunteers Dependants Fund], replying to two letters from her.
‘You have no idea of how busy I’ve been. For about a fortnight I’ve been up almost
alternate nights, but hope to get some rest during the coming week. Yesterday I
was speaking down at Ballinalee - in the place where Tom Ashe made the speech
for which they arrested & finally killed him. In the circumstances I came out on
the strong side .. However all well so far although at the meeting there was a bit of
unpleasantness with a policeman who was taking notes. Eventually though he gave
up his notebook quietly.
‘I believe that nerves reign supreme in the capital of the enemy now [a reference
to the German Zeppelin raids]. What has become of the stolid Englishman? .. It
was an awful pity that the Huns didn’t hit the House of Commons .. Off to Bantry
again this week-end. Will try to call at Woodfield [the family home] - perhaps stay
Saturday night. Great week-end in Granard - You know “herself ” lives there now.’
‘Herself’ is of course Kitty Kiernan, later his fiancée, making her first appearance in
this correspondence. Evidently Hannie already knew about her.
With a plain white envelope inscribed by Hannie, ‘From Dublin 1917’.
€2000 - 3000
444
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘A sensational turn at the Inquest’
An interesting ALS to his sister Johanna, 18th Oct. 1917, 3 pp, from 10 Exchequer
Street in Dublin, planning to cross to London on Nov. 1st, ‘of course that is subject
to certain things’. He mentions a short visit home, and sympathises with her housekeeping difficulties. ‘There is still very little perceptible scarcity of sugar in the
country places here but it’s becoming acute in Dublin .. In fact I’m looking forward
to the probable situation in this city with not a little dread.
‘There was a somewhat sensational turn in the Inquest proceedings today. The jury
handed in a sort of ultimatum to the effect that they objected very strongly to the
way that the authorities sheltered themselves behind privilege to keep back the full
facts. Enquiry adjourned until Monday week, when there’ll be wigs on the Green.’
[The reference is to the inquest on Collins’ friend Thomas Ashe, a 1916 Volunteer,
who died due to force-feeding during a hunger strike in Mountjoy Jail. The jury
censured the Dublin Castle authorities, condemned forcible feeding as an inhuman and dangerous operation, censured the Deputy Governor of the prison, and
recorded the refusal of the Prisons Board to give evidence and documents for which
they had asked].
€3000 - 4000
89
445
MICHAEL COLLINS
From Sligo jail
An interesting ALS to his sister Hannie, 10 April ‘18, 4 pp (single folded sheet),
from Sligo Jail.
‘In again - but I suppose you’ll have heard something about it ere this. They
arrested me in Dublin yesterday week after coming back from the south. Sad!
Sad!! Sad!!! I was brought up at Longford this day week, formally charged and
remanded to the Assizes which will be in July I understand. Before me therefore is
the prospect of prolonged holiday and of course July will only be the commencement of it. Can’t be helped.
‘Katie [his sister] was to see me here last Saturday morning. She didn’t recognise
me - imagine that. She has it seemed to me, changed a good deal herself. Her place
is not too far away and she says she intends coming to see me every Saturday.’ He
asks for ‘a few of the better class novels’ to pass the time - ‘in very cheap editions.
You know the kind I mean, the readable things that suit yourself for instance. Up
to the time of writing I haven’t seen today’s papers but I’m very anxious to know
what Lloyd George has done about conscription for this country. If he goes for
it - well, he’s ended.’
[In fact Lloyd George did decide to go for conscription, although the war was over
before the decision could come into effect. Several other leading Volunteers were
arrested or rearrested around the same time as Collins [see Coogan’s biography],
and the Volunteer executive decided that the policy of refusing to recognise the
court should be suspended. Collins was instructed to give bail, he did so, and he
was released. The ‘German Plot’ arrests began a month later, but this time Collins
evaded arrest. It was the last time the British had him in their hands; a year or two
later, they would have given a good deal for the chance.]
Unusually for Collins, the letter bears censor’s initials. Presumably he had not
been in Sligo long enough to develop his usual channels of secure communication.
€2500 - 3500
446
MICHAEL COLLINS
An interesting ALS to his sister Hannie, 20th Apl 1918, from Sligo jail, with censor’s mark, 3 pp (single folded sheet), advising her that ‘I’m probably leaving this
abode of peace and quietness - going out on bail actually - as I am directed to do
by the competent advisory authorities outside’ - hence no need to send the books
he had asked for. The daily papers are ‘of the most engrossing interest just now ..
even the Conscription proposals are to my liking as I think they will end well for
Ireland.’
His sister Katie is coming to see him; unfortunately she has had to wait all morning as ‘some one else is coming also, and only one visit per day is allowed, so they
have to see me together.’
[The ‘competent authorities outside’ were the Volunteer executive, which decided
that too many men were being locked up, and instructed them to recognise the
court and apply for bail.]
With a plain white envelope, marked by Hannie ‘from Sligo jail 1918’
€2000 - 3000
90
447
MICHAEL COLLINS
An ALS to his sister Hannie, 6.7.19, from Dublin, 1 page, signed with initial ‘M’, with a reference to her ‘travelling with the popular idols’ - apparently she was on a boat to or from Ireland with
someone well-known (not Collins, who was avoiding publicity at this stage). He gives news of his sister-in-law Katty (otherwise Kathy), who ‘seems to be somewhat better’; her brother Pat
is attending an ordination in Maynooth. ‘These ceremonies seem to be of the most imposing character and are attended by every one belonging to the ‘ordinated’. He asks about [his sisters]
Katie and Mary, and says ‘it is just on the cards that I’ll risk a visit south if I’m allowed.’
€1000 - 1500
448
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘It is the day of the workers’
An ALS to his sister Johanna, from Dublin, 10.11.18 [day before the end of the war in France], 2 pp, an enigmatic letter.
‘Sean McG sent me a note in which he intimated that you were rather upset at the vagaries of our young friend - you ought to know what might be expected at this time of your life, & after
all the experience you have had of all kinds of erratic persons. However he has returned safely. By the way it is now unlikely that the other man will call on you.
‘I’m really writing this to find out how you are? I do hope that this strange malady has not come your way. Ever so many of my friends have died of it here and thro’ the country. All sorts of
great strong chaps & girls too. It seems thank goodness to be somewhat on the decline tho’ still very serious. You may of course write to the usual address put the name M.W. O’Reilly.
‘Well, things are moving fast. New Republics every day - Russia gone, the Balkans, Austria-Hungary and now Germany. As the “Manchester Guardian” said in a thoughtful leading article last
week - “the Generals may make an armistice but who can make peace?” Who indeed? .. The situation is most interesting and it wouldn’t surprise me one little bit to see Bolshevism rearing its
head in France “at no far distant date”. It is the day of the workers and even England itself, sedate & careful as its population are, is hardly likely to be left untouched.’
[‘Sean McG’ is probably Sean McGarry, a close associate of Collins and a member of the IRB Supreme Council. We have not identified ‘our young friend’. The ‘strange malady’ is of course the
Europe-wide epidemic of influenza, then new and lethal. Michael O’Reilly was a close friend of Collins from Frongoch days, later head of the New Ireland Assurance Co.]
With a printed Appeal from the Irish Republican Prisoners’ Dependents Fund, 1 pp, listing the officers and committee, with Collins named last among the committee members.
€2500 - 3500
449
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘The Party is disintegrating’
A very interesting ALS from Dublin, 1.12.18, 2 pp, on the eve of the 1918
general election in which Sinn Fein virtually wiped the board.
‘Things here are in such a rush that literally one hasn’t a moment to give to a calm thought nor a calm word. At Central HQ here in Dublin we
are positively in a state of siege - morning noon and night, callers callers callers all clamouring for speakers and assistance. Will do very well in
the elections - the [Irish] Party is disintegrating and every day brings its fresh batch of seceders .. In all probability I’ll go to Cork [where he was
a candidate] for the Nominations but am not certain, for the few of us (who have had practically the whole responsibiloity for the past 6 months)
can’t very well afford to get landed [i.e. arrested] at this stage.’
He mentions several letters from the South, says Aunt Hannah is very very poorly, will try to see her again today; and concludes with an intriguing
passage. ‘You should try that stunt again that you were not successful on just recently. Conditions may have altered for the best. In that direction
all my thoughts are and in spite of election excitement I still manage to give more time to that end of it than to the Political end, the turmoil of
which as you may imagine leaves me almost unmoved.’
[Munitions? Some intelligence opportunity? Anyway, something he did not want to spell out directly.]
With an envelope addressed to Hannie, but postmarked 29 March 1918.
€2500 - 3500
450
MICHAEL COLLINS
An interesting ALS to his sister Hannie, 18.12.18, from Dublin, responding to some contact between Hannie and
Mrs. Despard [Charlotte, nee French, elder sister of the British commander Sir John French], and asking ‘What
kind is she? I wonder if she has any communication at all with Lord French? The Labour Elections in England do
not interest me much .. It seems to me that with a score [of] exceptions much cannot be expected of them ..’
He mentions various British newspapers, pointing out that the Daily Chronicle ‘has been purchased by a Lloyd
George group & is run in his interests. Among the daily papers the “Manchester Guardian” is not unreadable
but of course its influence, although widely read, is not very great.’ He also mentions the death of Lily Lynam, a
friend of Hannie.
Charlotte Despard [1844-1939] was a member of the British Labour Party and the Women’s Freedom League.
She lived in Ireland for some years, and had an interest in Irish affairs, particularly the wellbeing of the underprivileged. She was a friend of Maud Gonne, and was first President of the Women’s Prisoners’ Defence League;
she was one of a delegation that tried to avert civil war at the time of the Four Courts confrontation. She was
estranged from her brother Lord French, who refused to speak to her on his deathbed. Lord French was Lord
Lieutenant of Ireland from May 1918, and was the instigator of the ‘German Plot’ arrests and a leading proponent
of conscription and military repression in Ireland.
€2000 - 3000
451
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘A great display of bristling bayonets’
A very good ALS to his sister Hannie, 11.5.19, from Dublin, 2 pp, mentions meeting Jack O’Brien, a son of Uncle
Jim’s. He is in the American Army and is here for a few days only, before going to London by the day boat; perhaps
she could arrange to meet him.
‘Since last I wrote you things have been very exciting here. The Americans are a good turn, but their presence
didn’t constitute the excitement for us. What did was a great display of bristling bayonets, machine guns,
armoured car etc. to hold up the Mansion House where we were. They searched the whole place - almost every
crevice but they got nothing. We regard it as being quite an achievement on our part.
‘Saw Aunt Hannah .. Aunts Nell & Nan turned up also and we had quite a family party. Domestic in its unpleasantness. I insisted on laying down the law & talked them into a corner - or at least Aunt Nan. God help her, she’s
an old maid ..’
He asks again for ‘those copies of the Irish Review’ - for the third or fourth time. Hannie had sent them to another
address, see letter dated 20.9.19.
‘The Americans’ were a three-man delegation from the Irish Race Convention, greeted at a special meeting of
Dail Eireann where Collins made a powerful speech (see Coogan p. 113). Suddenly the Mansion House was surrounded by armed soldiers, who searched the building looking for Collins; but as he explains above, they did not
find him.
€3000 - 4000
91
92
452
MICHAEL COLLINS
An interesting ALS to his sister Hannie, 23.8.19, from 32 Bachelors Walk, Dublin, 2
pp.
‘You may have seen from the papers, or you may not, that I’ve been down home - also
I got safely back. Found them all very well down there - Katty being much improved.
Had no excitement - of course my visit was a private one, and it went off very successfully. It was the first meeting to launch the Loan of the Irish Republic here at home.
We are issuing 250,000 £1-£100 certificates. Prospectus enclosed. You might as well
give away £10 or £20.’ In a note at top of letter, ‘Don’t show the Prospectus round for
the moment’. [The Prospectus is not present].
‘It looks as if peace conditions were going to be no less thrilling than those prevailing in wartime. For the moment (apart from American Exchange) things are settled
enough but I am looking forward to the winter for significant happenings - perhaps
not in England but certainly in many places, and as far as we are concerned, in
America I think.’
With a plain white envelope marked by Hannie, ‘From Dublin 1919’.
€2000 - 3000
453
MICHAEL COLLINS
Two short TLS to his sister Hannie, on Dail Eireann notepaper, Meadhon Foghmhair
[September] 16 and 20, 1919, with a typist’s initials, signed ‘Michael’ as usual, the first
enquiring about a parcel of Irish Reviews he had asked for, with some family news, the
second acknowledging that they were at no. 32 [Bachelors Walk] all right, and
apologising for ‘the trouble my “Assistants” have caused you.’
[2]
€1000 - 1500
93
454
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘Katie has been talking about my movements’
An interesting and hastily written ALS to his sister Hannie, 2 pp, undated (most unusually), with an envelope postmarked 3 Dec. 1919. He is not sure if he has written to her since he returned - it is in his mind
that he did, but ‘it is not entered anywhere that I can find .. You’ll understand that I have been living in
such a turmoil ever since that it’s not at all easy to be clear on all matters at all times.’
The letter breaks off there and restarts, as ‘impending raids made my situation precarious and I left my
last. The amount of attention they are trying to pay me is really extraordinary but however I manage to
keep clear and as active as ever.’
His sister Mary is not well, he had hoped to see her before this time but ‘my enemies have not allowed an
opportunity - no doubt the local agents would be expecting me in that area. However, I’ll try again at
Xmas time - perhaps one could steal a visit then.
‘My occasional landlady has received a letter from [his sister] Katie also. Katie seems to have been talking
a good deal about my movements here in town, the damned talk got to the local police. That is the way
people get unmasked in Ireland.’
The opening lines indicate that Collins kept a record listing all the letters he wrote; if Hannie’s letter
is not entered there, he accepts that he cannot have written it. Has there ever been a better organised
revolutionary?
€2500 - 3500
455
MICHAEL COLLINS
A short ALS to his sister Hannie, stamped 22 Dec. 1920, wishing her a very happy Xmas. ‘Things get worse
and worse here, or better and better according to one’s way of thinking.’
With a second short letter, signed M., undated, giving directions for a journey to Castlereagh; and with
a copy of Collins’ personal Christmas card for 1920, printed entirely in Irish in gold ink. With a related
envelope.
(3)
€800 - 1200
94
456
MICHAEL COLLINS: HIS LAST LETTER TO HANNIE
A short autograph letter to his sister Hannie, signed with initial ‘M’, dated
Sunday 28th May 1921 but marked by Hannie ‘?1922’.
‘Called but only to find you were not in. We are staying at the Metropole
this time .. Returning to Ireland tomorrow’, also giving news of several
family members.
With a white envelope addressed by Collins to Hannie, not postally used,
marked by Hannie ‘May 1922 / Last I got from him.’
Collins certainly was not in London in late May 1921, six weeks before the
Truce. In May 1922 he was engaged in crucial negotiations with De Valera
and the British, seeking to reconcile the Treaty with the projected Free State
Constitution and the electoral ‘Pact’ with De Valera (see Coogan pp. 325-6).
Collins was trying to square the circle by finding a formula (or a fudge) that
would keep both De Valera and the British on-side, an attempt that eventually failed. On this occasion he agreed to go to London only after receiving
a handwritten appeal from Churchill.
The Civil War began a month later; ten weeks later Collins was dead.
€2500 - 3500
457
MICHAEL COLLINS
‘Tons of Rastles’
A collection of four postcards addressed to Collins at his sister Hannie’s
London address, 1911-13, two from D. O’Regan in Roscarbery thanking
him for papers, one from ‘Jim O’B--’ in Clonakilty, ‘Here I am at the old
Cross once again, & having a terrific time. All the boys are in great form &
the girls too. Tons of ‘Rastles’ [wrestles?] every day.’
The fourth card, from ‘Jim’ (same handwriting as last), postmarked
Blackrock, probably Co. Cork, August 1913, says ‘Have met O’Brien and
alarmed considerably’.
As a collection.
€400 - 600
95
458
MICHAEL COLLINS AND
SOCIALISM
A most interesting short autograph passage, probably part of the draft of a speech, unsigned but almost
certainly in Collins’ early handwriting, beginning ‘To many of you it will be difficult to see the connection between Sinn Fein and Socialism. To some it will be apparent. To me it is not so marked as it ought
to be. I am one of those who believe that Sinn Fein will never succeed unless it inscribe Socialism on
its banner. I shall endeavour then to show a connection - and at the same time cheerfully admit that the
founders & early supporters of Sinn Fein were bitterly antagonistic to Socialism. I believe they are still.
Our official organ - “Sinn Fein” - has suppressed all discussion of Socialism ..’, ending with a reference
to Griffith,
Written in ink on a loose sheet of lined paper, already bearing some pencilled accounting notes, and with
notes of towns on the Rhine on reverse. The handwriting suggests a date of about 1905-7, soon before
or after Collins arrived in London, when he was aged 15-17. See for comparison the school essay sold
at our 2006 Independence sale (lot 435, illus. in catalogue). The lined paper seems to be from a similar
notebook as the next two items.
It may be unwise to assume these are Collins’ considered views, even at an early age. It may have been
intended as a draft for debating purposes, or as an exercise, and there is no signature. Nevertheless it
is an interesting document, and it is interesting also that Collins or Hannie evidently thought it worth
preserving.
Provenance: Collins family, from his sister Hannie’s collection, by descent.
€800 - 1200
459
MICHAEL COLLINS AND GEORGE BERNARD SHAW
A manuscript extract from Shaw’s ‘The Man of Destiny’, copied in Collins’ early hand, possibly circa
1905, 3 pp (two sheets of lined paper from a notebook), commencing ‘The English are a race apart ..’
€500 - 800
460
MICHAEL COLLINS AND SINN FEIN
A short manuscript text, one page, on lined paper from a notebook, headed ‘Objects of Sinn Fein’, dated
28 Nov. 1905 (when Collins was about 15, some six months before he left for London), giving a competent summary of Sinn Fein’s proposals for Irish government and politics, ending ‘Non enrolment in the
British Army, and finally refuses to acknowledge the authority of England to make laws for Ireland.’
With a second sheet, probably unrelated, concerning the futility of Irish parliamentary tactics, quoting
Barry O’Brien’s Life of Parnell.
It is recorded that Collins began reading Arthur Griffith’s United Irishman when he was about 12, long
before he left Cork (see Coogan’s biography).
€500 - 800
96
461
MICHAEL COLLINS
A small pocket notebook, clothbound, circa 6 ½ x 3 ½ ins [150 x 90 mm], inscribed on free endpaper
‘M. Collins’ in Michael’s hand, evidently dating from his time in London, containing a wide variety
of notes, mostly in pencil, including references to G.A.A. affairs, some lists of names, lines and
quatrains of poetry, a page of notes about William Shakespeare, notes on financial provisions of the
Act of Union, titles of books (e.g. ‘Songs of the Field, Francis Ledwidge’), an interesting list of about
40 book titles by the Co. Down-born adventure novelist Mayne Reid, e.g. ‘The Rifle Rangers’, ‘The
Scalp-Hunters’, ‘The White Chief’ etc., about 20 marked R (for ‘Read’?), etc. etc.
A fascinating compilation showing the range of knowledge and influence to which Collins’ active
mind was open during his London years, likely to repay detailed study.
Shaken, some pages loose or partly removed, a few loose sheets laid in, with a leather wallet in which
it may have been contained, sold as seen.
€2500 - 3500
462
MICHAEL COLLINS
A small morocco-bound address book, circa 5 ½ x 3 ½ ins [140 x 90 mm], containing names and
addresses of members of the Geraldine G[aelic] A[thletic] C[lub] in London, of which Michael
Collins was Secretary circa 1909-15, alphabetically arranged, the names and addresses entirely in
Collins’ neatly written hand, mostly in ink, with various deletions and amendments, changes of
address etc., and with some addresses of secretaries of other GAA clubs (entered under ‘S’ - Collins
was methodical as always). There are well over 100 names, a fruitful field for further research, as
many young men became involved in politics through an initial interest in sport - including perhaps Collins himself. The listing includes four members of the Geraldines mentioned by Hart as
being Collins’ ‘particular chums’, Jack Hurley, Jack Gallagher, Dan Murphy and Mick Donoghue
(all with multiple changes of address).
€3000 - 5000
463
MICHAEL COLLINS
A collection including a printed commercial brochure for ‘The Sinn Fein Printing and Publishing
Company, Limited’ [1908], directors including Arthur Griffith, 2 pp (single sheet), cognate application form not present; a visiting card with handwritten name and address of Collins’ friend J.
Hurley; a postcard showing a Clonakilty farmer with his prize thoroughbred yearling colt, Dublin
Horse Show 1907; and a bundle of press cuttings on various subjects, some dated circa 1908-9, many
related to political or commercial matters, a few with manuscript notes in Collins’ hand, indicating
issues that caught Collins’ interest at the time.
The Sinn Fein brochure was issued when Griffith was seeking extra funds to publish a daily
paper.
€200 - 300
97
464
MICHAEL COLLINS AND THE G.A.A.
The manuscript minute books of the Geraldines Gaelic Athletic Club, London, 1904-09 and 1909-15,
two black rexine-bound volumes, small 8vo and 8vo, containing the usual details of monthly committee meetings and half-yearly plenary meetings - attendances, resolutions, proposers and seconders, voting, finances, reports, elections, team selections, match results, arrangements for club dances,
appointment of delegates, letters, rows and so on, each set of minutes signed as usual by the relevant
chairman, the second volume with some 70 pages in the hand of Michael Collins as club secretary.
The volumes are generally in good condition, covers a little worn and marked. The spine of 2nd
volume is torn for an inch on one side near foot, but holding firmly, and one page in 2nd volume,
glued-in at some stage, is now again loose.
The first volume (1904-09) contains about 150 pp of reports neatly written in a variety of hands,
countersigned mostly by P. Belton (chairman); from about 1907 the name of M.J. [Michael] Collins
appears with increasing frequency in the minutes. On l July 1909, near the head of the second volume, the minutes of the half-yearly meeting record that M.J. Collins was elected Secretary, and the
remaining 70 completed pages of this volume (1909-15) are in Collins’ hand. There are occasional
pencilled changes, particularly at first, where his minutes presumably were challenged and amended.
The volume ends with the report of a general meeting on 30 Jan. 1915, countersigned 30 April 1915;
the remaining pages are blank. Collins was re-elected as Secretary, and he did not return to Ireland
until much later in 1915, but for whatever reason he wrote no more minutes in this book. The remaining 100-odd pages are blank.
Collins’ minutes are terse, to the point and anything but bland. In his first minutes, he records
that the attendance on 1 July ‘09 ‘was fairly good, but might easily have been better’. On 2 October,
a motion proposed by Collins and seconded by Belton refers to ‘the ungentlemanly conduct’ of a
former Treasurer, who apparently left an unpaid balance of some 15/-, and proposes expelling him as
‘undesirable and untrustworthy’ (this matter recurs in later meetings). On 8 Jan. 1910, the half-yearly
meeting, ‘the attendance was most disheartening, only 14 members being present when the President
opened’. Later he mentions ‘a long rambling discussion’ about cash outstanding from a dance. In July
1910, ‘the secretary read his report. It was not flattering to the members, & advocated disbanding
as the club had been unable to field a team for more than 6 months. This suggestion was of course
repudiated’ - but the report was adopted. In Jan. 1914 the secretary’s report ‘was very gloomy, but
it was carried.’ The handwriting is sometimes hasty as the volume continues - presumably he was
getting busier - but it is never less than readable.
From a sporting point of view, the Geraldines has never been one of the GAA’s leading clubs, though
it won an occasional trophy. From a political point of view, it is probably the most important club
in the history of the Association. Not alone is it the club where Michael Collins played and attended
regularly through most of his nine years in London - the years in which he grew from a boy to a man
- it was also the venue where he met Patrick Belton, probably the man who introduced him to the
IRB, as well as lifelong friends like Jack Hurley, Jack Gallagher, Dan Murphy and Mick Donoghue,
whose future lives were intertwined with his own. The matches with other Irish clubs in London
kept him in regular touch with men like Sam Maguire and P.S. O’Hegarty, who played their part in
his general education and political development. Many other young men from the club played their
own part in the Irish history of the coming decade.
It is no exaggeration to say that the Geraldines Club was the nursery in which Michael Collins grew
to be a man; and these minute books, with the related reports in the London-Irish press, record his
growth as a player, as an organiser and as an Irishman. A superb memento of a great man, a great
Club and a great Association.
Provenance: Until recently on loan to the G.A.A. Museum, Dublin.
€15000 - 20000
98
465
MICHAEL COLLINS
Warm Sympathy Note from
“The Big Fellow”
A poignant ALS 2pp dated 20th July 1916, no address but evidently
written from Prison (probably Frongoch) to ‘My dear Miss (Caithlin) O’Brian,’ commiserating with her on the death of Sean (Hurley), to whom she had been engaged. ‘Poor Shawn
- I was indeed the last friend he ever saw in this world and in circumstances which cannot
be fully explained until I leave places like this behind me.’.. ‘I cannot say how much I feel
for you, as in my case I’m not good at expressing such things,.. I can only say that I do feel
and feel very deeply.’
Sean Hurley was a cousin and close friend of Collins. He died while trying to escape the
British cordon around the G.P.O. with a group led by Collins and Sean Mac Diarmada.
* The letter appears to be written on part of an envelope. There are no censor’s marks. It is
worn, with some tears and minor loss, and has been repaired with tape but remains a most
moving document. As m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
Provenance: The family of Caithlin O’Briain.
€1750 - 2500
465A
Second Dail Photographs
A group of three original and important press photographs of the second Dail and its
cabinet (December 1921), as follows;
(A) depicting a group Photograph of the entire Cabinet, the reverse stamped and dated
Dec. 15, 1921, together with a listing of the “Men who Started Ireland’s successful Fight
for Freedom”;
(B) depicting the Full Cabinet (Panoramic view) in procession;
(C) depicting a birds-eye view of the Cabinet in sitting showing Cosgrave, O’Higgins,
Figgis, Blythe, Mulcahy etc., as photographs, w.a.f. A nice group. Scarce & Unusual. (3)
€400 - 600
466
The General In Uniform
Photograph: Collins (Michael) An original black and white Photograph by W.J. Hogan,
dated 28 August 1922 on reverse, it depicts Collins in a close up pose in full Army Attire,
the background blurred and some distortion, a most handsome photograph, approx. 19cms
x 15cms, a slight tear, otherwise good and scarce. (1)
€700 - 1000
467
De Valera’s First Cabinet:
A very good original Photograph of President de Valera and his Cabinet, 1932, approx.
21.5cms x 30cms, mounted on card, with printed key underneath. As a photograph, w.a.f.
(1)
€180 - 250
99
468
Sean Oglaigh na hEireann,
Constitution
Draft Constitution: Sean Oglaigh na hEireann, [Old IRA Association], Draft Constitution,
aims of the Association, 8vo Tipperary (Fitzpatrick Bros.) c. 1919 / 1920, 4pps., some fold.,
otherwise good. V. Scarce. (1)
€150 - 200
469
The Four Courts Diary, 1922
Poster / Flyer: Civil War 1922, “Stop Press, Poblacht na hEireann, A Diary from the Four
Courts, June 28th, 1922,” approx. 24.5cms x 19cms, slight tear, otherwise good. Scarce.
* Produced by Anti-Treaty Forces, within the Four Courts, giving an account of the events
from the first day of the bombardment. (1)
€400 - 500
470
Dev’s Statement of Policy
Dail Eireann: de Valera (E.) Presidential Statement of Policy at Session of Dail Eireann, April
10th, 1919, 8vo pamphlet, 4pps., some wear, otherwise good. Scarce.
* The entire statement by E. de Valera (Priomh Aireach) in the passage was suppressed by the
English Censor.
€150 - 200
471
Rare Broadside: “Publacht na hEireann.”
The Provisional Government of the Irish Republic - To the People of Ireland. A small and
unusual printed copy of the text of the 1916 Proclamation, handbill size 22cms x 16cms (8 1/22
x 6 1/4”) approx, first line spelled as above, with extra line added in bold at bottom The Irish
Republic Still Lives, printed one side only, no printer, no date, probably 1918. Scarce. (1)
€250 - 350
100
472
Monteith (Robert)
“Keep your silence about everything”
A short but important A.L.s. signed ‘Bob’, from Wilhelmshaven (German
naval base), 12.4.16, to (his wife) Mollie, to let her know he is leaving at
once. ‘I know well what may be facing us - a long and dangerous journey,
S.R.C. and I know of the problem, but I (am) of good heart (and) will succeed. I will contact you through the office of J.D. N.Y. / Keep your silence
about everything.’
Capt. Robert Monteith, from Co. Wicklow, served in the British Army and
later worked in the Ordnance Survey in Ireland. He lost his position when
he joined the Irish Volunteers, where he was appointed a military instructor. He was sent to Germany to help Roger Casement in recruiting an Irish
Brigade and securing German support for Irish independence. He returned
to Ireland with casement on a German submarine in April 1916, apparently hoping to have the Rising called off as they considered the promised
German support was insufficient. They were put ashore at Banna Strand in
Kerry, and Casement was captured. Monteith escaped, and after a time ‘on
the run’ in Cork he escaped to the United States, where he lived until 1956.
‘S.R.C.’ in the above letter is ‘Sir Roger Casement’; ‘J.D.’ is John Devoy in
New York. The generally conspiratorial tone of the letter suggests that
Mollie was aware of the nature of his mission. There has been some speculation about a British ‘spy’ in the Casement group, and it has been suggested
the Mollie’s daughter was kidnapped by the R.I.C. to bring pressure on her.
Whatever about the speculation, this is a very important and interesting
letters. As a m/ss., w.a.f.
Together with, A First Edn. Presentation Copy of “The Mystery Man of
Banna Strand,” by Robert Monteith’s daughter Florence Monteith Lynch,
published in N. York, 1959. Inscribed on front loose flyleaf ‘To Aunt Kate &
Conn with love and best wishes Florence Monteight Lynch, Feb. 1961.’
€1200 - 1600
473
Redmond (John)M.P. Irish Party Leader:
‘.. Denounce the entire system of Government ...
... Home Rule alone is the Remedy...’
An interesting collection of 4 A.L.s. to ‘T.P.’ [Gill] his Irish Party colleague
1903 - 05, from his home in Leeson Park, Dublin. The first letter (Dec.
1903) declares his intention in a forthcoming speech ‘to denounce the entire
system of Government and administration in Ireland, winding up by the
declaration that Home Rule alone is the remedy’ and asking for help and
advice. The third letter, January 1905, asks T.P. to calculate the cost of various desirable Irish projects including ‘a satisfactory scheme for housing the
working classes in towns, a great scheme of arterial drainage, the necessary
pier and harbour works, the foundation of a National University,’ etc., and
asks ‘could all this be done by the amount we are over-taxed every year.’ The
other two letters are brief acknowledgements, all with very good signatures.
As m/ss., w.a.f. A scarce and interesting lot.
* T.P. Gill was Secretary of the Irish Department of Agriculture and
Technical Instruction 1900 - 23. He was formerly an Irish Party M.P. (1)
€700 - 900
101
474
“On the Beastliness of the Irish”
Casement (Roger) An interesting A.L.s., 7pp (2 single folded sheets) dated 29.3.05 from Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, to (T.P.) Gill,
Secretary of the Dept. of Agriculture and Technical Instruction, hoping to see him next week, when he comes round these parts
with (F.J.) Biggar. He mentions an article he has written on Irish in the Middle Ages for ‘Uladh,’ planning a much more exhaustive
article ‘which I think of terming On the Beastliness of the Irish....,’ and he mentions Mrs (Alice Stopford) Green. ‘.. I have begun
sea bathing here and find it delightful,’ suggests people he should meet including R.V. Woodhouse, ‘a good kind of man (a Unionist
of course) with many undeveloped but latent Irish sympathies,’ etc. With a good signature. As a m/ss., w.a.f.
Roger Casement from a Protestant background in Co. Antrim, became famous through his exposure of atrocities committed by
European employers of the natives in the Belgian Congo. On leaving the British Foreign Service, he became interested in Irish
Affairs and the Irish language, and during the First World War he went to Germany to seek to raise an Irish Regiment among
prisoners there. He was executed for treason, 1916, after clandestine circulation of homosexual extracts from his diaries.
F.J. Biggar was a solicitor and antiquarian. T.P. Gill was formerly an Irish Party M.P. (1)
€800 - 1200
475
“.. That damnable fraud the British Empire.”
Casement (Roger)
A very important A.L.s to (T.P.) Gill, 7pp (2 folded single sheets) dated 31.3.05 from Ballycastle. ‘since writing I have seen
Woodside again, he is anxious’ (Gill) should have time to see aspects of the fishing industry here, a small fishing - farming community at Ballintoy which suffers from poor facilities, etc., ‘Like everything else in this unfortunate country it paid the toll to
that damnable fraud the British Empire. Absentees who cared more for rents that they might have “a good time” elsewhere - and
a system of education which has brought up Irishmen and woman to know more and care more for every land in the world that
their own - a system of benevolence which rests on the same basis as burglary and which, not content with abstracting everything
a saleable value in Ireland has also abstracted the soul and intelligence of her people - that is the British Empire as it has revealed
itself to this country,’ with a very good signature.
T.P. Gill as secretary of the (All-Ireland) Dept. of Agriculture, would have influence in relation to grants for fishing improvements
and so on.
* A most important interesting and hard hitting statement of Casement’s political creed. (1)
€1000 - 1500
476
Casement (Roger)
A short A.L.s. on notepaper of Ballycastle Club, Saturday, no date, 2pp. (single sheet) to (T.P.) Gill, about arrangements to meet in
Dublin. In a clear hand with a good signature. As a m/ss. (1)
€300 - 400
477
Casement (Roger).
Executed for Treason, 1916. A very good autograph signed letter, 4pp. (single folded sheet), dated 27 June 1904, from Ballycastle,
but on notepaper of British consulate, Congo Independent State, to Mrs. Fennell (wife of Belfast Architect and naturalist W.J.
Fennell), concerning a paper on primary education by Mrs. Fennell (not present).
Í agree with every line of it - and I think your readers will be greatly indebted to you for putting so clearly and so eloquently and
so powerfully, before them all the plain duty of the people of this country.’ Mentions he is leaving on Thursday morning, taking
in the Feis on his way, with a good signature. With a copy of a paper on “Where the Masters Wrote,” by Wm. J. Fennell, and a few
other relating items. As a m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
€1000 - 1500
102
478
“... What can be done with Ireland?”
Butler (General Sir Wm.) Soldier, Traveller, Writer. A most interesting A.L.s. from his home Bansha, Co. Tipperary, 9 Jan. 1910 to (T.P.)
Gill, 4pp (single folded sheet)... ‘I have often asked myself the question in the last few years. What can be done for Ireland? & I must
confess that I am no nearer an answer than I was four years ago - I can see no prospect of awakening our people to any adequate sense
of serious conception of their responsibilities as Irishmen to Ireland - The personal factor seems to be too dominant with them in all
the aims and actions of their lives ... This may be largely the result of our Catholic teaching, which I think tends to absorb into the
Church all that part of the young community who are gifted with the purely vocationary instinct....’ ... I write this because it is from
the young that I look for the bettering of things...’ With a good signature.
* Also with a telegraph from Gill to Butler, asking if he can be in London to meet Roosevelt, ‘who has expressed strong desire to meet
author of ‘Great Lone Land.’ (2)
Gen. Sir William Butler fought in various Imperial wars; he made his main contribution to Irish Affairs as a young British Officer
in Canada, when he opened fire on a Fenian invasion and routed them. His book “The Great Lone Land” (1872) which ran to several
editions is about an expedition through the wilder parts of Canada. Roosevelt (Theodore) U.S. President, big game hunter, & ‘rough
rider’ later wrote books about the same area of Canada.
Sir William Butler’s wife was Lady Elizabeth Butler, Traveller and Painter. One of her most famous paintings was “The Charge of the
Light Brigade & “The Roll Call”.
€500 - 700
479
Parnell (Charles Stewart)
A brief T.L.s. to Mrs. Gill on House of Commons paper, March 1890 ‘... It is not proposed to fill up the vacancy of whip caused by the
death of Mr. Biggar. If it had been, it would have given me, great pleasure to have considered Mr. (T.P.) Gill’s claims.’ With a very good
signature, and with the original envelope (not in Parnell’s hand). As a m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
* T.P. Gill was for a time a Parnellite M.P. (1)
€280 - 350
480
O’Connor (T.P.)
M.P. A short T.L.s. on his addressed paper, 27th August 1919, to Tom (Gill),... have not seen Baldwin since, have not yet spoken to
Austin Chamberlain, wonders ‘wether this is the best moment to raise the question, when there is a perfect panicky feeling in all
departments in consequence of the outcry against expenditure.’ Single page with a v. good signature. As a m/ss., w.a.f. The context of
the matter is unclear; Gill was at this time Secretary of the British Dept. of Agriculture in Dublin. (1)
€150 - 200
481
Government of Ireland Bill 1920:
A cyclostyled Memorandum and accompanying T.L.s. from Joseph Johnston, 38 Trinity College, Dublin, on behalf of a small group
of named persons, marked ‘Confidential,’ proposing changes in the Government of Ireland bill (1920) to avoid ‘the seclusion of the
whole or of part of Ulster, as a means of avoiding civil strife, thereby perpetuating the worst evils from which this country suffers.’ The
memorandum suggests various safeguards for Unionists with an an independent Ireland, including a local administrative council for
Ulster with local control of the R.I.C., financial and taxation provision etc. very Rare.
* Joseph Johnston was a distinguished economist of this time. (1)
€300 - 400
103
482
William of Orange.
A manuscript document dated 9 December, 1674, appointing (James) Douglas to be a Captain in Col. (Hugh) Mac Cay.
Mackay’s Brigade. Signed with a bold autograph ‘Prince D’Orange’ and countersigned Huygens. One page, 12” c 8”, with the
Prince’s wafer seal attached, v. good condition. As a m//s., w.a.f.
* William of Orange, later William III of Great Britain & Ireland, became captain - general of Dutch forces in 1672. In 1688
he landed in England and drove out James 11, and was crowned King in 1689. Hugh Mackay (1640 - 1692) first served with
Turenne against the United Provinces, then changed sides and fought for the Dutch in the Scots Dutch brigade, and distinguished himself at the Battle of Sineff and the Siege of Grave in 1674.
* A rare document, and v. fine signature. (1)
€700 - 1000
483
Charles II King of Great Britain & Ireland, 1630 - 1685
Co. Armagh: A manuscript document in a scrivener’s hand, with the King’s bold signature at the head, dated 1672, giving
instructions to appoint Edward Lord Viscount Conway of Kilulta to be ‘Constable and Governor, of our Fort of Charlemont
in the County of Armagh in our Realm of Ireland, etc. 2pp with cognate blank, countersigned J. Trevor, dated 10 April, 24th
year of reign, mounted on a backing sheet, generally in v. good condition.
* The Conway family was of Welsh origin, with an Irish branch from 1602. They acquired large tracts of Con O’Neill’s land
in co. Down, and founded the town Lisburn. Edward Conway brought the distinguished theologian Jeremy Taylor to be his
chaplain in 1658. As a m/ss., w.a.f. V. Rare, & good signature, particularly with an Irish relevance. (1)
€800 - 1200
484
The Famine in County Cork
Mr. W.R. Fitzmaurice, Agent to George Lysaght,
Lord Lisle, Landlord
Kanturk, Nov. 1846: A long A.L.s., 12pp. to Lord Lisle, landlord, from his agent W.R. Fitzmaurice describing in great detail
the distressed state of the people, with a printed appeal (referred to in the letter) asking for subscriptions to the Kilmean Relief
Committee, ‘The scenes which are of hourly occurrence are calculated to appeal the stoutest heart. The Farmers who witness
them have almost to a man subscribed beyond their means and in some instances thrown open to the starving poor, their
potato Gardens, such as they are.’ the letter describes the destitution in great detail and asks Lord Lisle to sanction an outlay
of £100 for seed and other purposes, as unless something is done ‘the situation of this Country will be indescribably awful
next year, particularly in the Province.’ With a full typed transcript. As a m/ss, w.a.f.
* Rare & important account of Famine in Cork. (1)
€400 - 600
485
Suspected Rising in Dublin in 1807
Lennox, Charles, 4th Duke of Richmond, Lord Lieutenant, A very interesting A.L.s. to ‘Arthur’ (Wellesley, later Duke of
Wellington), from Phoenix Park, July 26, 1807, concerning rumours of a rising, military dispositions, etc., & mentions ‘Rising
which took place last July 23rd, 1803’ [Emmet’s Rebellion], 4pp. with a typed partial transcript. As a m/ss., w.a.f. V. good.
* Wellesley was Chief Secretary of Ireland 1807 - 09. (1)
€300 - 400
104
487
Wm. O’Brien, John Dillon & John Redmond on Tenants Rights
Land Legislation: An interesting collection of letters and notes to Alban Ryan of
Murroe, Co. Limerick, concerning tenants’ rights, including four A.L.s. (1905 - 1908)
from William O’Brien, a card from William Redmond, undated, an A.L.s. from John
Dillon (July 1900), and T.L.s. from John Redmond, Oct. 1906, with some associated
envelopes. The letters from Wm. O’Brien going into various matters in some detail, the
others mainly assuring the recipient of ‘my most anxious and careful considerations,’
etc. As a coll. of m/ss., w.a.f. V. interesting collection. (1)
€300 - 400
488
“Tories” and Rebels, 1685
Manuscript: A very interesting contemporary copy of an A.L.s.from John Percival of
Mallow, 5 Jan. 1685, to John Keating, Lord Chief Justice, 2pp. folio with cognate blank,
and with wax seal on reverse, discussing the terms on which a certain John Carroll
might be granted protection and pardon for past offences provided he undertook to
‘clear this & two neighbouring countries’ of Tories (i.e. rebels), some names; the suggestion being that he would only receive pardon if he brought them to justice, preferably
alive , etc. Also mentions Captain Odle of Limerick with whom Carroll was also dealing etc. With a full transcript. As a m/ss., w.a.f.
* Document of this period are now very rare. A most interest item. (1)
€350 - 450
489
Italian Involvement in World War 2
Breen (Dan) A.L.s., 2pp. on Dail Eireann notepaper, 11.9.43, to his friend and
Republican Colleague Jim Babington, discussing the progress of the World War after
Italy’s attempt to change sides. ‘The Popes and Italians have failed in their treachery
Rommel will beat Hell out of the damn lot. The leakage is now stopped and I hope no
stone will be left stand there. I know you will not like me to be anti-Pope but I want to
be quite candid, no orange men can be more bitter against him... . If anything happens
to me, you will know why. The gov. is very weak...’ As a m/ss., w.a.f.
* A typically forthright effort. (1)
€250 - 350
490
Dan Breen Penniless
Breen (Dan) T.D. An interesting 3pp A.L.s., marked “Personal,” on Dail Eireann
notepaper, to Frank (Mc Grath), dated 26.6.44 ‘I need and badly need £250. The main
reason for all my troubles is I am on the black list of both the U.S. and British gove’s.
and my money is tied up for 3 years. They even stopped my overdraft in the Bank and
I was without a penny for several days, I had to sell my home in Sutton to clear my
overdraft...’ Signed Dan. As a m/ss. A T.D.’s salary even in the 1940’s was not negligible,
but for some reason Dan Breen was always short of money.
* Frank Mc Greath was a 1916 Veteran, and All Ireland Winner with Tipperary. (1)
€300 - 400
105
491
“The Frongoch Roll Call”
Manuscript: The Rebels of 1916 at Wakefield and Frongoch, A copy book
of approx. 40pp. containing the signatures of about 170 Republican prisoners at Wakefield and Frongoch internment camps. The names listed by
prison numbers, including Sean Mac Craith, James Kavanagh, Seaghan
Ua Mathghamhna, Padraic O’Maille, Thos. Mc Ellistrom, Dick Fitzgerald
(Kerry Footballer), Donnchadh Mac Con Uladh, J.M. Stanley (Republican
printer), W.J. Brennan - Whitmore (Author), Toirdhealbhach Mac Suibhne
(Terence Mac Swiney), Capt. M.F. Lynch, Seamas O’Maoil Eoin, Tomas
O’Maoil Eoin, M.J. Brennan (Post Master General, Frongoch), Michael
Joe Ring, Westport, & others with many names from Cork, Kerry, Clare,
Tipperary, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Wexford, Dublin, Louth, etc. etc.
This listing was compiled by Con Deere, reportedly at the request of his
friend Michael Collins, and is said to be one of only three such lists where
signatures are listed in “roll call” order; the other two are in the National
Library of Ireland. As a m/ss.
* An intriguing relic from what was termed “Colaiste na Réabhlóide, or
Rebels University. (1)
Provenance: Con Deere; by inheritance
€2500 - 3500
492
Reading Jail, Irish Prisoners, 1916
Autograph Book: Deere (Con.) A Rebels Diary, Reading Jail, An important
autograph book compiled at Reading Jail by Con Deere, mostly in July
1916, containing signatures (many with poems and comments) including
Toirdhealbhach Mac Suibhne (Terence Mac Swiney), with an original poem
concluding:
‘Because I have endured the pain,
Of Waiting while my comrades died,
Let me be swept in war’s red rain,
And friends and foes be justified.’
Cathal O’Seanainn (O’Shannon), also with ‘an original new song; Seaghan
T. O’Ceallaigh; Capt. Wm. O’Brien, (Dublin Trades Council, friend of
James Connolly); Earnan de Blaghd (Blythe); Padhraic O’Maille; Art
O’Griobhthaigh (Griffith), with the comment ‘Reading makes a full man Lord Bacon,’; Joseph Mac Bride; Donnchada Mac Con Uladh; Piaras Mac
Cana (Pierce Mc Can, Tipperary), Peadar O’hAnnrachain with a verse in
Irish; Tomas Mac Curtain (Cork); Michael S. O’Braonain (Brennan); J.J.
O’Connell; Darrell Figgis; Seosamh O’Conghaile (Belfast); Sean Milroy;
and others. Written from the other end are several pages, of Con Deere’s
own diary describing his arrest and transport to Reading Jail. In a leather
bound album, a bit shaken, a few pages repaired with tape. As a m/ss.,
w.a.f.
* A highly important Album, as the men thought by the British Authorities
to be the leaders of the Irish Rebellion were mostly imprisoned in Reading
Jail. (1)
Provenance: Con Deere; by inheritance
€2000 - 3000
106
493
BATTLE OF THE BOYNE 1690
A most interesting letter in French, apparently recovered from a French officer taken prisoner at or after the Battle of the Boyne, 1690,
marked ‘Coppy of ye Duke of Savoys letter to the French King - found among ye Frenchmens papers in Ireland’. The letter, dated 20
May [1690] and addressed to ‘Monseigneur’ [My Lord, i.e. Louis XIV of France], is from ‘V. Amedee’ [Victor Amadeus, Duke of Savoy
and King of Sicily] and refers to a demand from the King that Savoy should give up some of his Italian possessions, including Turin,
apparently because of doubts about his loyalty. Savoy responds that he remains the King’s loyal subject, but asks to be allowed to surrender some other possession instead of his ‘citadel of Turin, in order to leave me in my capital with the dignity of a Sovereign’. With
a transcript of the French text and an approximate translation. The letter itself has been expertly restored.
A very rare relic of one of the most significant events in Irish history, which ended the last serious challenge to English supremacy in
Ireland for more than a hundred years.
€1000 - 1500
494
FAMINE LETTERS
1847
A collection of three autograph signed letters addressed to members of the Society of Friends, as follows:
a. ALS to Jonathan Pim from Will Malcolmson, Mayfield Factory, Portlaw [Co. Waterford], postmarked Carrick-on-Suir March 19
1847, 2 pp, with postage stamp and postal markings, apparently in response to an enquiry, he can not say how well the farmers in
Co. Tipperary are doing with their tillage, doubts if the landlords generally will assist their tenants with seed, ‘the great competition
for ground .. induces the landlord to look to the probability of the tenant .. being obliged to give up his ground, in which case the
expectation of letting it at an increased rent so much divides their interests .. that the tenants I fear can look to their landlords for little
assistance ..’, etc.
b. ALS to the Relief Committee of the Society of Friends, Friend Bewley & Co., Dublin, from Ruth Robinson, Ballynavin, Borrisokane,
1 pp, postmarked May 22 1847, with postage stamp and postal markings, seeking charity for ‘a most wretched lot of poor people around
me - I am a widow paying high rent, and I am now heavily taxed, which leaves me unable to relieve the great distress in this locality,
although there is outdoor relief established, yet it is not sufficient for their support. The smallest donation of rice (for dysentery prevails) or clothing will be most thankfully received’, endorsed in another hand, ‘Send an order for five cwt. of rice to be distributed by
applicant in a cooked state to the sick and destitute’.
c. ALS to Joseph Bewley and Jonathan Pim in Dublin from Willm. Davis, Clonmel, 7month [July] 24th 1847, with stamp and postal
markings, R. Davis and B. Grubb have left to attend Limerick Quarterly Meeting, asks for ‘a draft of our account to examine before
it be posted’.
Also with a cover sheet addressed to Central Relief Committee of the Society of Friends, contents not present.
As a collection. 1847 was the worst year or the Great Famine; in many areas the voluntary charity of the Society of Friends, administered without religious tests, provided the most effective relief for the destitute.
€600 - 800
495
AUSTIN STACK [1880-1929]
An interesting ALS from Lewes Jail on prison notepaper, 5.1.[19]17, 3 pp (folded sheet), marked ‘Special’, to a Dr. O’Connell, evidently
a solicitor and formerly his employer, thanking him for his very great kindness and consideration ‘during the years in which we had
business associations’, apparently replying to an offer to keep his post open pending his release. ‘If my successor shall be giving you
entire satisfaction whenever I may obtain my release, you should stick on to him and not trouble about me. I dare say I shall be able to
get something to do, though of course I should prefer to be with you than in any other Solicitors office that I know of’. He comments
on a recent legal action won by the firm, discusses other legal matters at some length, naming some of those involved, says the climate
at Lewes is much milder than Dartmoor, he is getting on well with his Gaelic studies, ‘my friend Tom Ashe gives me a lesson twice or
three times per week’, etc; and asks his brother for ‘Aids to Pronunciation’ and a cheap fountain pen, as his monthly letter is not due
for another fortnight.
Stack was born in Tralee and was a tax inspector for the Dingle region before the Rising. He was a Commandant during the Rising and
was held in Lewes and Frongoch until June 1917. Later he was a member of the First Dail and Minister for Home Affairs; it is unlikely
that he ever returned to work for Dr. O’Connell.
Tearing at fold, no loss but please handle with care.
€800 - 1200
107
JAMES CONNOLLY [1868-1916]
496 JAMES CONNOLLY [1868-1916]
The following lots are consigned by a descendant of James Connolly, leader of the Citizen Army and signatory of the Proclamation of Independence 1916. These items are
from the collection of James Connolly, his wife Lillie and their children Nora, Ina and Roddy; most of them probably belonged to James Connolly himself.
Born in Edinburgh of Irish parents, Connolly went to work aged 11 and spent some years in the British Army. Influenced by the Scottish socialist John Leslie, he became a
committed socialist and trades unionist at an early age, and was secretary of the Independent Labour Party in Edinburgh. In 1896 he moved to Dublin, where he founded the
Irish Republican Socialist Party and the Workers’ Republic newspaper. He moved to New York in 1903, returning to Belfast in 1910 as an organiser for the Irish Transport and
General Workers’ Union, and publishing his ground-breaking work Labour In Irish History. In 1912 he was joint founder with Jim Larkin of the Irish Labour Party.
He returned to Dublin, and during the great Dublin Lock-out of 1913 he jointly founded the Irish Citizen Army, to protect the striking workers and their families from attacks
by police and agents of the employers. He revived the Workers’ Republic in 1914, and was one of the very few European socialist leaders to oppose the Great War.
Early in 1916 Connolly reached an agreement with the insurrectionary group within the Irish Volunteers to join them in a Rising for Irish independence, and on Easter Monday
he led the Citizen Army into the GPO. The wording of the Proclamation is believed to reflect his influence in some of its passages. On Thursday of Easter Week Connolly’s
ankle was shattered by a bullet; thereafter he was confined to a stretcher. He was court-martialled in hospital, and was tied in a chair for his execution on 12 May 1916. ‘Hasn’t
it been a full life, Lillie, and isn’t this a good end?’, he said to his wife at their last meeting.
A small collection of manuscript notes in his hand, with some letters addressed to him, as follows:
- four sheets of paper with notes in Connolly’s hand, apparently relating to a political discussion, one headed ‘Answer’, the notes mentioning ‘Transvaal Letter’, ‘Connolly
Resolution, circumstances explained’, a dispute about minutes, ‘Sub-Committee’s Position before joining’, ‘Chase and I.W.W.’ [Industrial Workers of the World], Bohn [Frank
Bohn, secretary of the Socialist Labour Party], De Leon [leading American socialist with whom Connolly had a dispute about syndicalism], a reference to Butte, Montana [a
mining town with a large Irish population], ‘Change of position. De Leon says new constitution was adopted because the old one centering power in New York, was a danger
to the party. New York was the anchor of the party’s hopes’, etc.
The handwriting is hurried and the details are obscure, but clearly these papers relate to Connolly’s time in the United States, to his dispute with De Leon and possibly to
committee discussions around the time of the foundation of the I.W.W. circa 1905.
- Munster and Leinster Bank, Dame St., Dublin, 8 June 1911. ALS on headed paper to Jas. Connolly Esq., Braemor St., Belfast, acknowledging a payment of £5.11s. by Mr.
Hoskin on account of reduction and interest on [the J.M.?] account of £45, and enclosing a renewal bill for £40 ‘which kindly return to us when signed.’
Connolly was appointed Ulster Organiser of the I.T.G.W.U. in June 1911; his wages were paid by the Socialist Party of Ireland, whose organising fund was administered by
Richard Hoskin, but Connolly had difficulty getting money from him and Mrs. Connolly was left penniless in Belfast for three days while Connolly was in Scotland [see
‘Between Comrades’, ed. Donal Nevin, p. 46-7]. This letter is not printed in Nevin’s collection, though he has Connolly’s reply of 14 June.
- Geo. Brennan, Sydney, Australia. ALS dated 8.11.13 congratulating Connolly on the success of his ‘Hunger Strike’, and the Union on ‘the splendid fight it is putting up in
‘Dear Dirty’ Dublin. I am with you in the spirit - I have just started to work here today having got a job scaffolding on a large building .. about to join the Builders Labourers
Union here .. have found out where the Socialist Labour Party meets’, etc.
Connolly was jailed in late August 1913 after addressing a banned meeting during the Dublin Lockout; he went on hunger strike on September 7 and was released a week later,
weak and feverish, on the Lord Lieutenant’s order. Evidently Brennan was an old comrade; see Nevin p. 500-501.
- G[eorge] Roberts, Maunsel & Co., Publishers. TLS to Connolly at 122 Corporation St., Belfast, 30 January 1914, concerning terms for a cheap reissue of his ‘Labour in Irish
History’ in paper covers. (Roberts wanted a guaranteed order of 1500 copies at 6d. net per copy, cash with order).
As a collection. Documents in Connolly’s hand or addressed to him are rare; due to his frequent relocations, not many of his papers have survived. Much of his surviving
correspondence is in the National Library of Ireland.
Provenance: Family of James Connolly, by descent.
€3000 - 4000
497
IRISH WAR NEWS. THE IRISH REPUBLIC.
Vol. 1 no. 1, Dublin, Tuesday April 25, 1916. 4 pp small quarto newsprint (single folded sheet). Fold marks, a little rubbing where possibly carried in a pocket, a little foxing
and marginal fraying, but a good copy of this fragile item, published in central Dublin on the second day of the Rising, printed by Joseph Stanley in a printworks controlled
by the rebels in Halston Street. With Pearse’s bulletin on back page giving the latest news, including a reference to Commandant General James Connolly commanding the
Dublin districts. Pearse’s bulletin clearly was composed on the day of publication; the other material had been prepared for another publication.
Provenance: From the collection of the Connolly family, probably given personally to James Connolly by the printer Joseph Stanley.
€1000 - 1500
108
498
[JAMES CONNOLLY]
Trades’ Unionism: Its Principles, Its History and Its Uses. A Lecture Delivered at the Rotunda, Dublin, under the Auspices of the Dublin
Trades Council, April 29th 1889. By Robert Donovan, B.A. Dublin, Printed and Published at ‘The Nation’ Office, 90 Middle Abbey St., 1889.
24 pp, cover foxed.
A ‘brief sketch of the history of the rise and progress of Trades’ Unionism’, written from a broadly favourable but non-partisan point of view.
A rare pamphlet, probably an early purchase by the young James Connolly. In April 1889 he was not quite 21, contemplating marriage, having recently ended his British Army service. At this time he was already collecting books and pamphlets on socialism and Irish history (see
Greaves’ biography).
Provenance: Connolly family, collection of James Connolly, by descent.
€300 - 500
499
[ARTHUR GRIFFITH]
The Resurrection of Hungary: A Parallel for Ireland.
Dublin, Duffy etc., price One Penny, 1904. Light yellow wrappers, staple perished but in excellent condition, first edition of this celebrated
pamphlet, probably the most influential Irish publication of the century. Later editions include the author’s name.
Connolly disagreed with Griffith about many things, and it is interesting that his collection includes an early issue of this pamphlet (though
it shows few signs of careful study).
€300 - 500
500
[JAMES CONNOLLY]
Prepare for Action. By Tom Mann. The Industrial Syndicalist Monthly. Vol. l no. l. London, July 1910. Slim narrow pamphlet, 24mo coloured
wrappers. ‘There is on foot a great world Movement, aiming definitely and determinedly at the economic emancipation of the workers.’
Tom Mann [1856-1941] was a pioneering English socialist, leader of a London dock strike in 1889 and a co-founder of the Independent Labour
Party in 1893. He met Connolly in Edinburgh, probably in the early 1890s, and corresponded with him later from New Zealand, when
Connolly in America. Connolly sent him a copy of his pamphlet ‘Socialism Made Easy’, which Mann said expressed views identical to his own.
In 1914, however, Mann supported recruitment for the war, and Connolly denounced him as formerly the greatest of internationalists, now ‘a
raving jingo’. Ironically the rear cover of Mann’s pamphlet carries an advertisement for Hervé’s celebrated anti-militarist and anti-patriotic
work ‘My Country; Right or Wrong’.
€300 - 400
501
DUBLIN DISPUTE: THE CASE OF MILNER
34 Bayview Avenue, North Srtand [sic], Dublin, 9th January 1914. [Open Letter] To the Members of the U.K.S. of Coachmakers. Published by
Thomas Milner, and Printed by Trade Union Labour. Wrappers, 16 pp, staples removed. Rare.
With
United Kingdom Society of Coachmakers. 261st Quarterly Report & Journal, January 1914. Report, Financial Statement, Correspondence
etc. Wrappers, 74 pp, staples removed. Pages 5-17 of the Report highlighted in blue pencil, dealing with the Dublin dispute and the removal
of Thomas Milner as President of the Dublin branch.
Thomas Milner was Dublin representative of the British-based coachmakers’ union, whose Dublin members were involved in the 1913 Lockout.
Milner fell out with his own union over accounting for strike-pay and other issues, and was removed. Both sides of the story are set out in the
two documents. The report of a London investigating committee states that Milner’s accounts were in chaos, and that he should not again be
given any position of financial responsibility. Milner naturally tells a different story. An interesting sidelight on the Great Lock-Out. Milner
is not mentioned in Yeates’ book on the Lockout.
(2)
€400 - 600
109
502
EASTER WEEK: THE ‘SECOND WAR BULLETIN
‘The Provisional Government to the Citizens of Dublin.
‘The Provisional Government of the Irish Republic salutes the
Citizens of Dublin on the momentous occasion of the proclamation of a Sovereign Independent Irish State now in course of
being established by Irishmen in Arms.
‘The Republican forces hold the lines taken up at Twelve noon
on Easter Monday, and nowhere, despite fierce and almost continuous attacks of the British troops, have the lines been broken
through. The country is rising in answer to Dublin’s call, and
the final achievement of Ireland’s freedom is now, with God’s
help, only a matter of days ..
‘We have lived to see an Irish Republic proclaimed. May we live
to establish it firmly, and may our children and our children’s
children enjoy the happiness and prosperity which freedom
will bring.
‘Signed on behalf of the Provisional Government,
P.H. Pearse, Commanding in Chief the Forces of the Irish
Republic, and President of the Provisional Government.’
Handbill, single sheet, newsprint, printed one side only, a few
minor flaws in the type, the sheet 8 ¾ x 5 ½ ins [22.2 x 14 cms],
printed surface 8 x 4 ¾ ins [20.2 x 11.7 cms].
This is the ‘Second Bulletin’ printed by Joseph Stanley in
Halston Street, on Tuesday night of Easter Week, after Pearse
and Connolly had decided not to print a second full issue of
‘Irish War News’ as originally intended. According to Stanley’s
biography by Tom O’Reilly, a supply of printed copies was taken
to the GPO by Stanley himself on Wednesday, when he met
James Connolly. This is probably one of these copies. Later on
Wednesday Connolly sent his son Roddy away from the GPO
with important papers, probably including those listed here. It
may be significant that the Connolly collection does not include
the ‘third bulletin’, issued on Thursday.
This ‘Second Bulletin’ is the scarcest printed document of
Easter Week. It is reproduced in Stanley’s biography, p. 43,
from a negative proof copy (presumably there was no positive
copy available in the Stanley archive). The manuscript text, in
Pearse’s hand throughout and much-amended, is in the Stanley
archive (now in the National Museum)
Provenance: From the collection of the Connolly family, probably given personally to James Connolly by the printer Joseph
Stanley.
€5000 - 8000
110
503
JAMES LARKIN [1876-1947].
Larkin’s Scathing Indictment of Dublin Sweaters. Lives Sacrificed to Profits.
National Labour Press, Manchester & London [1913]. Illus. wrappers, 16 pp, staples
removed.
Verbatim report of Larkin’s speech to the Commission of Inquiry into Labour conditions in connection with the transport workers’ dispute at Dublin, Saturday October
4th 1913. ‘The employers have failed everywhere. They claim .. the right to control
production. But we deny that. We say they are not fitted to carry on industry.’
€300 - 400
504
[JAMES CONNOLLY]
Diarmuid O Donnabhain Rosa. 1831-1915. Souvenir of Public Funeral to Glasnevin
Cemetery, Dublin, August 1st, 1915. Presented by the Committee to Mrs. Eileen
O’Donovan Rossa. Quarto, illustrated with photographs, covers stained.
James Connolly is listed as a member of the Funeral Committee, as Officer
Commanding the Citizen Army; and the brochure includes his article ‘Why
the Citizen Army Honours Rossa’ at p. 18. Other contributors include Pearse,
MacDonagh and Griffith.
O’Donovan Rossa’s funeral marked the first occasion when Connolly and the Citizen
Army appeared in a formal alliance with the Volunteers. An important historical
document, and a splendid association item.
€400 - 600
505
[JAMES CONNOLLY]
When the Government Preaches Sedition. By Arthur Griffith. Tracts for the Times
No. 4. Dublin, Whelan & Son [1915], wrappers, 12 pp, staple removed.
With
How Ireland Is Plundered. Issued by the Financial Relations Committee, Dublin
1916. Wrappers, 4 pp, with stamp of United Trades Council Dublin.
(2)
€200 - 300
111
506
1916 PROCLAMATION: THE VERY RARE HANDBILL ISSUE - ‘POBLACHT NA H EIREANN’.
The Provisional Government of the Irish Republic to the People of
Ireland. Irishmen and Irishwomen ..’
Handbill, page size 8 5/8 x 5 ½ ins [22 x 14 cms], printed surface 7 ¾ x
4 5/8 ins [19.7 x 11.6 cms], on similar paper and in closely similar typographical style to lot 502, reproducing the full text of the Proclamation
without the original type-anomalies. No printer, no date, same provenance as previous items.
Only two other copies of this handbill are recorded. One is in the British
National Archives at Kew, among the papers of William Wylie, prosecuting barrister at the court martial proceedings against the leaders of the
Rising. The other known copy is in the National Library of Ireland, in
the Joseph Holloway collection, marked by Holloway ‘1916’. We have not
seen any other copy in some 20 years of handling such material. It is not
mentioned in Bouch’s booklet, which deals only with the broadsheet
issue.
In view of its typography and the provenance of the three known copies,
it is very likely that the handbill was printed by Joseph Stanley during
Easter Week, on the same presses as the Second and Third Bulletins
(see Tom Reilly’s biography of Stanley). It is thus the second issue of the
Proclamation. It makes sense that the rebels would have wished to issue
a more portable version of the text than the 30-inch original, which is
not reproduced in ‘Irish War News’. It might have been issued later that
year, but in that case there would be no reason for Wylie to have a copy;
and besides Joseph Stanley was imprisoned from early May to Christmas
Eve 1916. If issued in peacetime conditions, one would expect that plenty
of copies would survive, which is not the case; whereas by the middle
of Easter Week, central Dublin was a theatre of artillery, gun-battles
and uncontrolled fires, and a document such as this could easily vanish
almost without trace - as apparently it did.
A true rarity, and an important addition to the bibliography of 1916.
Provenance: From the collection of the Connolly family, probably handled by James Connolly himself.
€3000 - 5000
112
507
Devoy (John): Death of his brother Michael in America
A collection including his memorial card (1928), a photograph taken in Dublin 1924, a snapshot showing him with relations (also 1924), and
a long A.L.s. (12 pages) to ‘My dear Nephew,’ on notepaper of Doherty Mercantile Co. of Folsom, New Mexico, 8th Sept. 1914, concerning the
death and funeral of his brother Michael Devoy, a cattle farmer from near Folsom, giving personal details of Michael’s harsh life, his care for his
cattle, poor living conditions, etc., also details of his will and inheritance. ‘Mr. Dougherty asked me would I like to live on the ranch and bring
my neighbours out. I told him I wouldn’t; that neither they nor I would like the life or were fitted for it. I did not say what I really thought, that
the life would not be worth living. I told him, I wanted everything sold and disposed of ....’ A most interesting document, relating in detail the
harsh life endured by his brother in New Mexico in the early part of the 20th Century. Also with a later letter from a Devoy relation. As a coll.,
m/ss., etc., w.a.f. (1)
€600 - 800
508
“A Romance and a Tragedy”
John Devoy’s Love Story
Devoy (John) A most interesting collection of Photographs and documents, telling the poignant story of the Fenian leader’s lost love, including:
- a very good original Photograph of Ms. Eliza Kenny as a young girl, when she was engaged to marry John Devoy.
- a photo of the same lady in late middle age, now Mrs. Elizabeth Kilmurray (2 copies), and another of Mrs. Kilmurray with her niece Mary
Curley.
- a copy of The Gaelic American, 19 March 1927, worn, including an obituary account of Mrs. Kilmurray and of the circumstances which
prevented her marriage to Devoy. After his arrest and imprisonment, the young lady said she would wait for him, and did so although he had
released her from her promise. However, he was mistakenly told she had married, and subsequently that she had died, due to confusion with her
sister, and so did not send for her. In due course she married someone else. Devoy remained unmarried, and was amazed to find her still alive
when he returned to Ireland in 1924;
- a contemporary photograph of ‘The Cuba Five,’ the released Fenian prisoners including Devoy and Rossa deported to the United States on the
steamship Cuba, in 1871, inscribed at rear by Devoy circa 1924, ‘To Mrs. E. Kilmurray, nee Eliza Kenny, in loving memory of our engagement
when she was a fine girl of 20 (1866) and with deep regret at the misfortunes which separated us. From John Devoy, New York, July 21;’
- a 1924 snapshot of John Devoy in Dublin with his Irish niece & nephew;
- two reproduced photos of Devoy during his Irish visit, one with President Cosgrave;
- a mounted photograph of Devoy’s coffin with tricolour, and guard of honour.
* John Devoy, 1842 - 1928, from Johnstown, Co. Kildare, was a Fenian organiser in 1865-6. Sentenced to 15 years in jail, he was released in
1871 on condition he did not re-enter the United Kingdom and went to the United States where he became leader of Clan na-Gael, the IRB’s
American counterpart. He supported successive Irish leaders including Davitt, Parnell and Tom Clarke, and was still actively involved in Irish
Revolutionary affairs in 1916. He supported the Treaty as a necessary step to full Irish Independence, and returned to Ireland briefly in 1924. On
his death the London “Times” said he was the most persistent and dangerous enemy of England which Ireland had produced since Wolfe Tone;
a verdict which no doubt would have pleased him greatly. As a collection. rare. (1)
€600 - 800
509
“Tintown” Autograph Book
Manuscript: An interesting Autograph Book mainly compiled at the Curragh (‘Baile Stain’, “Tintown”) circa 1923, apparently partly
during the great hunger strike for the release of Republican prisoners. The volume compiled by ‘Muirbhthean O’Mairtin, 3642 Bothan
8’ (Mervyn Martin), contains approx. 40 signatures and addresses, including Brian O’hUiginn (‘Brian na Banban’), with a verse:
“There are hints of ‘heaves’
There are battle eves And Tintown is unnervin,
But cool as snow
Blow high, blow low
Is our curly typist - (Mervyn)
others Seosamh Mac Daibheid, Seamas O’Riain, with a wry comment “We must eat to live,” ‘If we eat, we remain here, and so we only
exist, Therefore if we eat we don’t live; and if we don’t eat we may live.’ Also Leo Leonard (on hunger strike), Sean Goulding, Josie
Dempsey, F. Morrissey, Jim Moran (‘Release with honour / or Death’); C. O’Reilly - ‘Courage! Courage” & will soon be gone / This
Darkest Hour before the Dawn’; and many others. In a small oblong paper covered album. As a m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
€400 - 600
113
510
Third Tipperary Brigade, I.R.A.
[Babington (Jim)] A large and highly important Archive of
letters, orders, engineering notes, diagrams, maps, notebooks
and other material compiled by Seamus (Jim) Babington, engineering officer of the 3rd Tipperary Brigade, I.R.A.
The Third Tipperary Brigade was one of the most active and
effective units of the I.R.A. Its core membership included the
‘Big Four,’ Sean Treacy, Dan Breen, Seamus Robinson & Sean
Hogan. Their operations included the Soloheadbeg Ambush of
21st January, 1919, generally regarded as the opening engagement of the War of Independence, and taking place as it did
on the day of assembly of the First Dail in Dublin. Martial law
was declared in South Tipperary as a result, but the Brigade
continued with a series of major operations which have all
been well chronicled. The majority of Brigade members took
the anti-Treaty side in the Civil War.
Jim Babington was the Brigade’s engineering officer from 1919
through to the early / mid - twenties, responsible for engineering supplies and arrangements for all of the major operations - blocking of roads, destruction of railways, bridges,
etc., ambushes and so on. Thus, his archive includes some
hundreds of documents, including maps of country areas,
lists of roads and bridges with details of vulnerable points,
places suitable for ambush etc. During the Truce period (July
- Dec. 1921) there is what amounts to a detailed survey of the
Brigade’s entire area of operations.
The bulk of the documents relate to this period when the IRA
emerged from the shadows to some extent, but there are also
some earlier and later documents.
Items of particular interest include several cryptic notes from
“F” in London 1921, about parcels containing, ‘clients,’ presumably code for engineering supplies of some description;
detailed instructions for manufacture and use of explosives;
lists of bridges, roads, ambush and sniping positions, vacant
houses, etc., details of bridges and gullies on the G.S. & W.
Railway, trees for felling and so on; an interesting note on
‘Irish cheddar’ (explosives) and ‘war flour,’ a list of Brigade
casualties 1920 - 23; instructions to Babington to go to Paul
Shanahan’s shop in Dublin and explain his needs there, etc.
There is also a circular summoning a Republican Convention
on 28th May 1922, to select election candidates for the constituency of Waterford and East Tipperary, in accordance with
the terms of the ‘enclosed agreement’ (the Collins - De Valera
Pact); also lists of members evidently prepared for I.R.A.
Pension purposes. There are also some documents from the
early 1940’s, relating to Local Defence Force activities.
* The Archive is in need of extensive research, and it contains
a multiplicity of material too numerous to mention, including a great deal of information not available anywhere else
and which should be of immense interest to historians and
scholars of the struggle for Independence in Tipperary. As an
Archive.
Provenance: Babington family, by descent. (1)
€3000 - 4000
Photograph not included
114
511
Tragic Irish Naval Disaster
Sinking of M.V. Leinster, 1918: A manuscript transcript of evidence at the inquest in Dublin on persons drowned in October 1918, shortly after H.V
Leinster left leaving Dun Laoghaire Harbour bound
for Holyhead.
The ‘Leinster’ was used (though not exclusively) as
troop transport, and the 771 persons on board when
it sank included 489 British and Allied Military personnel. About 270 passengers and crew were rescued
by a flotilla of small boats; the remaining 501 died
in the explosion or drowned thereafter. The inquest
jury found no blame attached to the shipping company, but censured the Admiralty for not providing
a military escort.
The transcript includes about 320pp in pencilled
longhand on reporter’s copy paper, in two alternating hands, carefully numbered 1 - 41 (final day) and
1 - 278, with a few pages in typescript. it includes
opening statements, evidence to the jury, coroner’s
summing up, and an exchange with members of
the jury on the final day as to whether they wished
to ‘censure’ or ‘blame’ the Admiralty. A few pages
towards rear are frayed with some loss. Probably this
is a transcript of the original shorthand record.?
* An intriguing and valuable historical record of a
significant and tragic wartime event. (1)
512B
Proclamation from The Four Courts
Stop Press: Poblacht na h’Eireann. War News No. 6. Sunday July 2, [1922].
Approx. 49cms x 33cms (19 1/4” x 13”) printed one side only on light brown
paper, framed & glazed. V. Rare.
* Important: “THE FIGHT GOES ON - LATEST INTELLIGENCE OFFICIAL. I.R.A. PRISONERS TREATED AS CRIMINALS - DISPATCH
FROM COMDTS-GEN. LIAM MELLOWS. MOUNTJOY,” etc. etc. (1)
€350 - 500
513
The Liberator in Richmond Bridewell, 1844
O’Connell (Daniel) A very attractive embossed Card with hand coloured
flower and leaf decorated border, and with central panel inscribed by ‘Daniel
O’Connell M.P. for the County of Cork, Richmond Bridewell, 6th September,
1844, below a verse in O’Connell’s hand which reads:
“Still shall man be my waking theme,
Thy Glories shall my midnight dream
And every thought and wish of mine
Unconquered Erin shall be thine.”
* A very attractive item. (1)
€700 - 900
€700 - 1000
512
Loyal National Repeal
Association:
A large printed Membership Card, appointing John
Branigan of Clontarf in June 1843, as a Repeal
Warden, and signed by J. M. Ray. An attractive decorated item, with four circular vignette views, and
the young Queen Victoria on top, designed by W.H.
Holbrook, Dublin, and printed on stone, approx.
36cms x 28cms (14” x 11”), framed. (1)
€150 - 200
514
Fine Illuminated Address, 1876
“Nation Newspaper:” Hutchinson (John) Artist. A fine large illuminated
Address to Mr. P.J. Fogarty from The Staff of The Nation, October 7th 1876.
attractive item with two vignette scenes, one of The Nation Office, the entire
highlighted in gilt, approx. 56cms x 42cms (22” x 16 1/2”). In a fine hand
carved oak frame with the Irish motifs, harp, wolfhound, round tower, Celtic
Cross, and covered all over in carved shamrock. a very good example of 19th
Century Irish Nationalist arts and craft style.
* John Hutchinson was a pupil of C.B. Schools, Nth. Richmond St., Dublin.
(1)
€600 - 800
512A
O’Connell (Daniel)
Attractive litho portrait print of Daniel O’Connell,
mounted with an original contemporary envelope
front, dated March 20, 1836, Signed by Daniel
O’Connell, and marked FREE, as a Member of the
House of Commons, framed. (1)
€250 - 350
115
515
Tipperary’s Lost Leader
PIERCE McCAN [1882-1919]
An interesting collection of autograph signed letters, 1915-19, from and concerning this major Republican figure from Co. Tipperary, who died in Gloucester Prison in
England during the influenza epidemic of 1918-19, after a doctor had possibly dosed him too strongly with strychnine.
The letters are mostly addressed to McCan’s friend Joan Jennings (Siubhan Nic Seain), of Eccles St. in Dublin, who shared his religious devotion and his interests in
Republican politics and the Irish language, and helped him with various projects. These letters, which have recently come to light, are evidently related to a similar collection sold at Adams/Mealys Independence sale 2008, lot 671.
There are 17 letters in all, some with associated envelopes: nine ALS from Pierce McCan to Joan Jennings, three of them from detention (one a short note on a slip); six
ALS from Jane McCan (Pierce’s mother) to Joan mostly after Pierce’s death; one from his brother Francis; and a TLS from George Roberts of Maunsel to Pierce McCan,
October 1916, concerning a work in Irish by Padraic O Conaire which MacCan was seeking to have published; presumably Pierce sent this letter to Joan for her comments. There is also a telegram from Pierce to Joan, 1915, arranging a meeting, and three incomplete letters (lacking opening pages) from Pierce to Joan. Joan’s letters
to Pierce and his mother are not present.
Pierce McCan’s letters show his sunny disposition, his deep religious faith, his interest in the Irish language and the Gaeltacht, and in the prison letters, his frustration
as his detention continued with no end in sight; in prison his principal consolation appears to be submission to the will of God. In his last letter, 3 November 1918, he
mentions the influenza outbreak that killed him only a few weeks later. There is of course no political discussion in these prison letters. Four of Pierce’s letters are in very
competent Irish, one of them written from the Kerry Gaeltacht.
Mrs. McCan’s letters give the impression that she was herself a significant personality. In September 1918, after Pierce’s second arrest, she writes, ‘As for me I have no
reason to love Sinn Fein. It has brought me only sorrow, anxiety and disappointment, & poor Pierce - he has lost position, means & liberty. You may see I am not a true
patriot - as I don’t think any country is worth all this suffering.’ The later letters show that even her deep religious faith is not enough to soften her bitter grief at Pierce’s
early death. ‘Pray for me when you pray for him’, she asks Joan on 27 Sept. 1919. ‘Eternity is very close now, and I have a long account to settle. I would not be sorry for
life, but I fear death.’
There are various references to Padraic O Conaire’s book of stories for children, Tir na nIongantas, which Pierce wished to have published. He subscribed £50 to that end,
but the matter was left unsettled at his death and Mrs. McCan apparently relied on Joan Jennings to sort it out.
Pierce McCan came of a well-to-do and respected farming family near Cashel, Co. Tipperary. He was head of the local Irish Volunteer unit, but MacNeill’s countermanding order prevented him from joining the Rising. He was nevertheless arrested afterwards and detained for some time, and was again arrested in 1918. He died
suddenly of influenza in Gloucester Prison early in 1919, possibly aggravated by incorrect treatment (see Mrs. McCan’s letter dated 24 June 1919). His funeral was one
of the largest ever seen in Tipperary.
As a collection, w.a.f. (1)
€1500 - 2500
116
516
Thomas Ryan, R.H.A
[Mac Curtain (Thos.)] Pastel, Portrait of Tomas Mac Curtain, signed, approx. 18cms x
10cms (7 1/4” x 4”), and inscribed ‘for Sean Coughlan from the artist, February 1978’,
gilt frame. (1)
€350 - 500
517
South of Ireland Imperial
Yeomanry Military:
A most attractive Shooting Trophy, the large shield shaped cooper centre overlaid with
silver decorations of rifles, shamrock and a scene with soldiers in camp at shooting
practice, and inscribed at top, South of Ireland Imperial Yeomanry, Inter Squadron
Shooting Shield, the entire laid on a shield shaped wooden block overlaid with
inscribed silver medallions identifying the winners from 1905 - 1912, approx. 51cms
(20”)h, made by goldsmiths & Silversmiths, Regent St., London. V. Rare.
* The Regiment was raised in 1902. Its headquarters was at Artillery Barracks,
Limerick, and was distributed in four Squadrons, A.B.,C. & D., at Dublin (2), Limerick
& Cork. The first commending officer was Lt. Col. The Marquis of Waterford, who was
appointed 10th February, 1902. In common with all other regiments from the South of
Ireland the Regiment was disbanded in July, 1922. (1)
€400 - 600
518
Collins (Michael)
An interesting typed note, (carbon copy) from Collins concerning instructions for the
rationalising of government departments, ‘It will be obvious that under the altered circumstances certain of the Departments included in the above list (not present) will be
no longer required and the present activities of these Departments will be concluded
as soon as possible... Communications for the Provisional Government and members
of the Provisional Government should continue to be addressed to the Mansion House
until further notice.’ Signed ‘Michéal’ no date but c. 1921, and framed with portrait
postcard of Collins. Together with two other documents, one to J.J. Walsh re G.P.O.
Dublin, and the other listing two Departments or Offices to be taken over, both carbon
copies and signed ‘M.O.’C.’ as a lot, w.a.f. (3)
€280 - 350
519
Signed by Michael Collins and Arthur Griffith
Lavery (Sir John) Two rare portrait Prints of Arthur Griffith and Michael Collins,
Artists proofs, both signed by the artist and each signed by the sitter, published by
Wilson Hartnell & Co., Dublin, 1922, approx. 58cms x 49cms (22 1/2” x 19”), in attractive hogarth type frames. A rare pair of a very limited issue.
* During the Treaty negotiations in London, Collins and Griffith became friendly with
John Lavery and his wife Hazel. The Laverys used their position and social connection
to assist all the Irish delegation. (2)
€2000 - 3000
117
520
Irish Volunteers: Oglaigh na hEireann.
Constitution of The Irish Volunteers, a rare printed item 4pp (single sheet) divided into four sections:
I. Objects
II. Enrolment Form to be signed by all Irish Volunteers
III. Scope and System of the Organisation
IV. Government of the Irish Volunteers.
& with General Summary of Scheme of Military Organisation, printed on end leaf. No date but circa 1913/14, some fold marks and some
pen and pencil annotations. V. Rare.
* The Irish Volunteers was initiated by Eoin Mac Neill in an article in ‘An Claidheamh Soluis,’ on the 1st November 1913, and was established after a Public Meeting in the Rotunda rooms organised by Bulmer Hobson on 25 November, 1913. (1)
€300 - 400
521
Plunkett (Grace)
Wife of Joseph Mary Plunkett. A very good ink and watercolour cartoon drawing on the flyleaf of a book, titled ‘Nazimova Enters
Heaven,’ and signed ‘Grace Plunket / N.D.U. (Nth. Dublin Union) August 1923’ approx. 6 1/2” x 4 1/2” showing Nazimova pulling at St.
Peter’s habit, captioned ‘Pether, is that a bit of a sheet yo’ve got?’ Nazimova was a Russian born actress, who presumably was in the news
at the time; the precise relevance of the drawing is not clear (possibly to do with prisoners refusing to wear prison clothes). Also with a
tracing of another drawing by Plunkett, ‘How Cassidy won the V.C.,’ stained and worn to one side. As orig. drawings, w.a.f.
* Grace Gifford married Joseph Mary Plunkett in his condemned cell the night before his execution.
Provenance: Kathleen Daly (formerly Caitlin Ni Bhriain, who was imprisoned with Plunkett in 1923. (1)
€250 - 400
521A
[Fr. Albert Bibby]
Autograph signed letter from Fr. Bonaventure of the Capuchin Franciscan College at Rochestown, Co. Cork, on their headed notepaper, 11 June 1924, to ‘my dear Kathleen’ (O’Brien), asking if she could come to see Fr. Albert before he leaves for the United States.
As a m/ss.,w.a.f.
* Fr. Albert was one of the Capuchin priests who assisted the 1916 rebels, during and after the Rising. he was transferred to the United
States by his order in 1924, probably as a result of political pressure, and never was able to return home.
Provenance: by descent from the family of Caithlin Ni Bhriain (Kathleen O’Brien) who was active with Grace Plunkett and others for
the Republican cause. (1)
€150 - 250
522
‘... Knowing it is for Ireland, for justice, truth and honour’
Mac Swiney (Mary) sister of Terence, Lord Mayor of Cork. A very good autograph signed letter 2pp (single sheet) dated 14.11.23, to
Caithlin (O’Brien), during the course of the Mountjoy hunger strike in which Caitlin took part (see autograph book also in this sale).
A very warm letter between two good friends, in which she refers to other colleagues from the Republican movement ‘Sighle,’ ‘Annie’,
‘Dotie,’ and Miss Rahilly. she mentions her own ill-health, and recuperation ‘I cracked up immediately after the Ard Fheis.. and was laid
up to a fortnight,’ She praises their courage and encourages them,.. ‘No one who knows what a hunger strike is will ever have a hard
word to say for those who give up. I feel I should be happy if I could only take all their suffering on myself. It is heartbreaking.... and
yet knowing it is for Ireland and for justice and truth and honour, ... God give you all the strength and a speedy release.’ Very good. As
a m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
€300 - 500
118
523
The Hotshot Republican
Countess
Markievicz (Countess Constance) A printed target card signed ‘Constance
de Markievicz,’ with seven perforations of which two are in the bulls-eye
section and two more very near it, issued by W. Kavanagh & Son, gun
Makers, 12 Dame St., Dublin, gun Fitting Ranges, Larkfield Harold’s Cross.
Inscribed at to in pen ‘Given to K. Healy 1922’ The target card was used at
25 years distance, and it certainly bears witness to the Countess’s proficiency as a marksman. She was second-in-command at the Citizen Army post
in St. Stephen’s Green during the Easter Rising, and it is said that she shot at
least one British Officer advancing down Harcourt St. Rare & Unusual. (1)
* The shooting range was in the grounds of Joseph Plunkett’s house in
Larkfield, Kimmage, Dublin, where some of the volunteers gathered before
the Rising and practised their shooting skills.
€400 - 600
524
Rebel Leader’s Handgun
Markievicz (Countess) A small .32 Calibre S. & W. (Smith & Weston) CTGE
Hand Gun, formerly the property of Countess Markievicz, with a letter of
provenance. (deactivated)
* The above gun was given by Countess Markievicz to Seamus Babington
of the 3rd Tipperary Brigade, I.R.A. See also the Target Record in this sale,
which shows the Countess was a crack shot.
Provenance: The Babington Family, by descent to present owner
€800 - 1400
119
525
The Rebel Countess in
Carrick-on-Suir
‘I gCuis na hEireann’
Na Fianna Eireann. Markievicz (Constance Countess). A contemporary
manuscript copy of an Address presented to Countess Markievicz by the
members of the Con Colbert Branch of Na Fianna Eireann during her visit
to Carrick-on-Suir, November 4th, 1917, 2pp (single folio sheet); with an
original A.L.s. from the Countess confirming the arrangements for her
visit, 1pp., undated, from her Leinster Rd. address in Dublin, clearly signed
‘I gCuis na hEireann [in the cause of Ireland], Constance de Markievicz
I.R.A.,’ a bold signature.
The address is a splendid document, recalling how ‘in your young days you
cut yourself adrift from your ascendant family and threw off the robes of
English bureaucracy and wrapped yourself in the flag of Irish patriotism ...
and ultimately when Ireland was becoming more English than the English
themselves, you went and set aside all the pleasure of your civil life and
joined tenaciously with your comrades that were murdered in the fray, handled your sword, your rifle, your men and brought them face to face with
the English troops....,’ over the names of Sean O’Keeffe, President; Sean
Loughman, Captain; Seamus Usal Babington Hon. Sec.
The address with some fold marks, and frayed edges, and one small perforation (possibly from a cigarette), with insignificant loss. Together with a few
press cuttings relating to the visit and presentation. As m/ss., w.a.f.
Provenance: Seamus Babington, by descent to the present owner
€800 - 1200
526
Na Fianna Eireann Carrick-on-Suir
Printed Poster: A rare broadside poster, Advance on the Irish Front. Irish
Recruits Wanted... ‘.. the competent Authority of the Na Fianna Eireann, we
command all boys who love their country an who are willing to assist in the
regeneration of Ireland, to attend at The Town Hall Carrick-on-Suir.... 9th
May.. to Enroll and Fill up the Ranks of The Irish National Boy Scouts. (Con
Colbert Branch). Printed one side only, by Lynch, Printer, Carrick-on-Suir,
c. 1915, approx. 55cms x 44.5cms (21 1/2” x 17 1/2”), framed. Ex. Rare. (1)
Provenance: Seamus Babington, by descent to the present owner
€400 - 600
120
527
Poblacht na hEireann
The Proclamation of Independence of the Irish Republic
Printed in Dublin, 23rd April 1916 by Christopher Brady,
Michael Molloy and Liam O’Brien for the Provisional
Government of the Irish Republic, 75.6 x 51cm, text size 74
x 46.2cm
€100000 - 150000
Original Proclamation, “Poblacht na hEireann / The Provisional Government of the Irish Republic to the People of Ireland,Printed at Liberty Hall, Dublin, under the
protection of soldiers of the Irish Citizen Army, on Easter Sunday, 1916, and read from the steps of the General Post Office, O’Connell St., Dublin on Easter Monday
morning by P.H. Pearse, in the presence of the other signatories of the document, thereby heralding the Rising, and Ireland’s advance towards self-determination. Single
broadsheet, overall size 30 2/16” x 20 2/16”, width of printed lines, 18 1⁄4”, printed text 29 1/16”, on poor paper with smudging and uneven inking, some minor tears,
and creases. As ephemera, w.a.f. The most important document in Irish History, one of an amazingly small number of known surviving copies, most of which are in
Public Institutions.
The Proclamation, the corner-stone of modern Irish history, the Irish Declaration of Independence, was probably theliterary composition of P.H. Pearse, with some
changes and amendments by James Connolly and Thomas MacDonagh. It was printed in Liberty Hall, Dublin, on an old “Wharfdale Double-Crown,” printing machine.
The work commenced about mid-day on Sunday 23rd April and was completed approx. 1.00 on Easter Monday morning. James Connolly organised all arrangements.
The printer was Christopher Brady and the compositors Michael Molloy, and Liam O’Brien all of whom had previously been employed in the work of printing “The
Worker’s Republic,” for Connolly. Mr. Brady who worked the machine throughout described his task as one of great difficulty. He found it hard to ink the type evenly
and the rollers refused to maintain an even pressure, with the result that nearly all copies show much smudging in parts and faint printing in other parts. In the beginning an attempt was made to set the entire document at the one time, but it was found this was not viable as there was not enough type available, and it had to be set in
two stages. Firstly, top half, from “Poblacht” down to and including the words... “among the nations.” Secondly, the bottom half, from “The Irish Republic,” .. to “Joseph
Plunkett”. The paper used was of the poorest quality, a cheap line which was purchased from Saggart Mills, and similar to that used on the “Workers Republic.” A print
run of 2500 copies was planned, with the intention of supplying the country as well as the city. It seems unlikely however, because of the difficulties encountered in the
work, dilapidated machinery, scarcity of paper etc., that any more than 1000 copies were in fact printed. Finally the work of distribution was then handed over to Mrs.
Helen Moloney, as ordered by Connolly. The type for the second section or bottom half was still in the press, when the British soldiers entered Liberty Hall, on Thursday
27th April 1916. Mr. Michael J. Molloy told the story of how he came to be one of the three men who printed the 1916 Proclamation, in an article entitled “My Easter
Week,” published in the Evening Herald, on April 4th, 1966. In 1925, Mr. Joseph J. Bouch published a booklet, for the Biographical Society of Ireland which was a short
history and a bibliography of The Proclamation. He examined the few available copies of the original from libraries etc., and this paper is now the definitive tool for
ascertaining the true copies. A photocopy of the booklet accompanies this lot. He defined six main points from which the first issue can be identified:
Size of paper: approx. 30” x 20”.
Quality and colour paper
Style of typography including wrong fonts and spaces
Measurements of form or type face, or length of line
Differences in spelling notably in the names of the signatories
Other typographical inexactitudes
The above copy conforms in size, type of paper, etc., and contains all the typographical inexactitudes and irregularities called for by Bouch. It contains the 23 wrong font
“e” as called for. It also contains the reversed “e” in the third “the” on the first line of the last paragraph. Also according to Bouch the spacing matter or bars between
the lines frequently caught the ink and showed a line of varying lengths. This copy has one such line. In addition, this document contains further typographical errors
which were missed by Bouch & other bibliographers, historians alike, & which on examination, are to be found in all other true copies of the original. These are three
lower case “t”s. This copy also displays clearly that the original Proclamation was in fact printed in two parts, as the distance between the last two paragraphs, etc., and
the top half again varies in size.
121
122
528
W.T. Cosgrave and the Free State Constitution
L.T. Mac Cosgair [W.T. Cosgrave] An Autograph signed Letter or Draft Letter to Aodh Uasal na
Cinneide [Hugh Kennedy], Ali - Oifigeach [Law Officer], 3pp undated [early 1922], on Rialtas
Sealadach na hEireann [Irish Provisional Government] headed paper.
A very important letter, concerning contacts with the British about the Free State Constitution. He
has seen Curtis, Cope thought things were bad but actually things are rather good, a baby has been
born to Mrs. & Mr. Churchill, and the latter is in very good humour. He [Cosgrave] told Curtis
about their difficulties over the Oath and its place in the Constitution. ‘I said for example in the
Treaty it is not mandatory that the Oath should be taken - and it had been so interpreted - but here
it is in the constitution ... ‘ Curtis then asked what about Churchill coming along in a destroyer
and having a discussion with me and you on the high seas. It was also suggested that we’d go to
Holyhead, and further to Lord Colwyn’s place...’
* Negotiations about the Free State Constitution were primarily handled by Michael Collins as
Chairman of the Provisional Government, but evidently Cosgrave, then Minister for Local government, thought he had a contribution to make. Lionel Curtis and Alfred Cope were British civil
servants involved in the talks. Hugh Kennedy was legal advisor to the Provisional Government
and later Chief Justice.
This may be a draft intended for typing or revision, as there is no date or reference number and the
handwriting is rapid and careless in places. Whether it is an actual letter or draft thee is no reason
to doubt the contents. W.T. Cosgrave became President of the Executive Council after the death of
Griffith and Collins. As a m/ss., w.a.f. a very important document. (1)
€700 - 900
529
Fianna Fail Victory Party, 1933
Mac Bride (Maud Gonne) A very interesting A.L.s. on notepaper of Women’s Prisoner’s Defence
League, 1 Feb. (19)33, asking the recipient to see to it that the League members ‘who worked so
hard for your election and for Fianna Fail in Dublin during the election get tickets for the Victory
Party which we hear is going to be given in the Mansion House shortly,’ and naming several of
those involved. Evidently the recipient was a senior elected member of Fianna Fail. One page only,
with a good clear signature. As a m/ss., w.a.f.
* Important and interesting as confirmation that Republicans from outside the party worked for
Fianna Fail in the 1933 election - the first in which the party won an overall Dail majority. Maud
Gonne was not a Fianna Fail member, so far as is known, and her son Sean Mac Bride was at this
time active in the IRA and its political offshoots. (1)
€500 - 700
530
Mac Swiney (Terance)
Lord Mayor of Cork. An autograph signed letter on his headed mourning notepaper as a Lord
Mayor of Cork, dated 15 July 1920, to Miss (Kathleen) O’Brien at Henry Ford & Co., Cork,
regretting that he and the Lady Mayoress cannot attend a concert that evening. With a very good
signature in Irish, Toirhealbhach Mac Suibhne, and with receipt stamp of Henry Ford. As a m/
ss., w.a.f.
* The paper has black borders due to the murder of the previous Lord Mayor, Thomas Mac
Curtain.
Provenance: Family of Caithlin O’Briain. (1)
€400 - 600
123
531
Kathleen Clarke’s Dail Ticket
Dail Eireann: A signed official printed delegate’s ticket for the session of Dail Eireann held on 25th April 1922 in Irish, issued to
‘Bean an Chleirigh’ (Mrs. Kathleen Clarke), the manuscript details signed with initials MÓC at end. Ex. Scarce. (1)
€1000 - 1500
532
O’Sullivan (Joseph), executed 1922.
A contemporary typescript copy of his last letter to his father from Wandsworth Prison, August 9th, 1922, 2pp. folio carbon copy,
concluding ‘from your own loving and affectionate son, Joseph.’
Joseph O’Sullivan and Reginald Dunne were IRA members and former British soldiers who had served in France, where
O’Sullivan lost a leg at Ypres. They accosted General Sir Henry Wilson outside his London home on 22 June 1922, and shot him
dead, evidently on I.R.A. orders. It was strongly rumoured that the order was approved by Michael Collins, possibly before the
‘Truce’, because of Wilson’s alleged role in the Belfast ‘pograms’. The incident led to heavy British pressure on the Provisional
Government and may have accelerated the outbreak of open Civil War in Dublin. O’Sullivan’s family was from Bantry, Co. Cork,
so he would have been one of Collins trusted Corkmen.
In his letter, Joseph O’Sullivan says, ‘I don’t think I have ever known what true happiness was before now, dear Dad, & I want
to share it with you and all my loving brothers and sisters... You know Dad that death is only a parting, sometimes it is harder
than others. But it is an end we must all come to sooner or later and I can never thank God enough, for giving so unworthy as I,
such a happy death.’ Probably a contemporary copy made for publicity purposes by Sinn Fein / I.R.A. Apparently unpublished.
V. Rare.
Provenance: From Joseph O’Sullivan’s father to General Liam Tobin, by descent.
€400 - 600
533
Mac Bride (Major John) 1865 - 1916.
A very good A.L.s. to Dear Tom [almost certainly Tom Clarke], 15th June, no year, from his New York address, 3pp (single folded
sheet), with a good signature. An interesting letter mentioning ‘Miss G’ [Maud Gonne], who got a bad cold on her return to Paris,
her sister who is rather ill, the ‘Knights of Tara men’ [American-Irish], the Red Branch Knights who are giving him a banquet,
asks is there any news from Bute [Butte, Montana, An Irish and I.R.B. stronghold], sees by the paper that Davitt is going to start
a new campaign, his old friend Miss Johnston is engaged to be married to Mac Manus - “I feel so sorry as we were great friends,”
and asks about news from Limerick (home place of Clarke’s wife Kathleen). With small pieces of adhesive tape on upper corners,
and a portrait of Mac Bride affixed to blank rear page. As a m/ss., w.a.f.
Major John Mac Bride and his I.R.B. colleague Tom Clarke were in close touch around 1901, when both were based in New York.
Mac Bride went to Paris in 1903 & married Maud Gonne. ‘Miss Johnston’ is Anna, whose pen-name was Ethna Carbery. She
married the prolific Donegal writer Seamus Mac Manus, who also lived in New York at this time.
Major Mac Bride, from Westport, Co. Mayo, was a member of the I.R.B. Supreme Council, and fought in Jacobs factory during
Easter week, but was not a commandant or signatory. His execution after the Rising may have been due to his previous role in
organising a brigade to fight against the British in the Boer War. For another letter from Mac Bride to Tom Clarke, see MealysAdams Independence Sale 2006, lot 306 (illus.). (1)
€600 - 800
534
“The Sinn Feiners” Original Manuscript Poem
[Dunne (M. or W.)] An interesting manuscript poem headed The Sinn Feiners, beginning “Oh! we’re the Sinn Feiners, the pride
of ould Ireland...” 4pp (2 sheets), on paper with embossed address “Ballymanus, Stradbally, Queen’s Co.,” unsigned, but dated
at end 3.3.18.
Evidently written from an anti-Sinn Fein point of view. Lines 4-7 of the first verse read,
“Let other chaps fight for our sweethearts and mothers all Australian, Canadian and Yankee, like brothers all, But we are the
boys that will keep a whole skin on us! And its eakal (equal) to us if the inimy win on us! Unusual. As a manuscript, w.a.f.
* Ballymanus, Stradbally, was at this time the home of Mr. Michael Dunne, M.P. (1)
€300 - 400
124
535
COUNT PLUNKETT’S ASSEMBLY 1917
A small green pasteboard invitation to an ‘Irish Assembly’ at the Mansion
House, Dublin, April 19, 1917, with motto ‘Go Saorai Dia Eire’, numbered
297, stamped with an image of a Bishop’s bell, issued to Miss Jennings [Joan
Jennings, friend of Pierce McCan], initialled ‘MC’ probably in Michael
Collins’ hand.
After Count Plunkett’s victory in the North Roscommon by-election, the
Count (father of the executed Joseph Mary Plunkett) thought he had a
mandate to take over leadership of the independence struggle, and convened a conference in the Mansion House to discuss his plans. Sinn Fein
took a different view, and the conference was packed with its supporters
and ended without making any significant decisions (see Coogan, Michael
Collins p. 66). This ticket appears to have been issued by Collins to a reliable friend (a close associate of Pierce McCan of Co. Tipperary). Scarce
and interesting. (1)
€400 - 600
536
The Irish Republic - Irish War News
Irish Rebellion: Vol. I No. 1 Irish War News, Dublin, Tuesday April 25, 1916.
[Second day of the Easter Rising.] Sm. 4to single folded sheet, browned as
usual, a few straight folding tears, edges somewhat frayed, but generally a
good copy of a very frail and very scarce item.
* This was the only publication known to have been printed in the area
controlled by the Rebels during the Rising, in a commandeered print works
in Halston Street. The material in pages 1-3 may have been prepared in
advance, but the ‘Stop Press’ column on page 4, headed ‘The Irish Republic,
could not have been written before Tuesday morning as stated. Written
by Pearse while under fire in the GPO, it names the members of the
Provisional Government, and gives some details (mainly accurate) of the
fighting to date. ‘At the moment of writing this report (9.30 a.m., Tuesday)
the Republican forces hold all their positions and the British forces have
nowhere broken through. There has been heavy and continuous fighting
for nearly 24 hours, the casualties of the enemy being much more numerous
than those on the Republican side. The Republican forces everywhere are
fighting with splendid gallantry ..’ It is printed on the lightest of newsprint,
and surviving copies are often in poor condition. The example here is a
very good copy of this extremely scarce item. This copy, with a letter of
authentication from Mr. G.A. Hayes-Mc Coy of the Historical Section of
the National Museum of Ireland, dated 1957. (2)
€1000 - 1500
125
537
Rare Collection of Irish Republican Postcards
Postcards: An extensive and rare collection of approx. 280 original picture postcards, mostly of 1916 - 1923 period, with approx. 80 portrait
cards of the rebel leaders, including the signatories of the Proclamation together with many other rare cards including K. Barry, Peter Clancy,
H. O’Hanrahan, Patrick Doyle, Tadhg Barry, Michael D de Lacy, Thos. Hunter, Capt. Rich. Coleman, Sean Connolly etc., there are 8 cards
on M. Collins (8), T. Ashe (5), etc., also various sets of The Destruction of Dublin, after the Rebellion by Hely’s, Eason’s, Powell’s, Valentine
& Daily Sketch; cards of Military Operations at Four Courts, 1922, cards of Frongoch & Lewes Jails; also other cards, Royal Visit, 1903, (16);
Ulster with Carson (20), and cartoons on Home Rule, Sinn Fein, & First World War, and many other portrait cards of 1798 Leaders, and
addition portraits of M. Davitt, C.S. Parnell, W. Redmond, John Dillon etc., the entire in fine clean condition, with many real photographs
included. As a collection, w.a.f. (1)
€2000 - 3000
126
538
TERENCE MACSWINEY & MICHAEL COLLINS
A paid cheque for 17/6d. payable to Micheal O Coileain [Collins], dated 30.vii.1920,
drawn on Banc na Mumhan & Laighean Teo. [Munster & Leinster Bank, Cork], signed
by Toirdhealbhach Mac Suibhne [Terence MacSwiney], the cheque and details in Irish,
crossed, with PAID stamp of Hibernian Bank, countersigned rear by Collins and by D.
O Donnchadha, Dail Eireann, with stamp of Comhar-Bannc Sinn Fein Teoranta [Sinn
Fein Cooperative Bank Ltd.] dated 5 August, and twice stamped by Hibernian Bank [5
and 6 August].
Terence MacSwiney, Lord Mayor of Cork, was one of the principal collectors for the Dail
Loan in Munster; presumably this payment relates to that account. MacSwiney was
arrested on 12 August 1920 (two weeks after writing this cheque) while presiding at a Sinn
Fein court in Cork, and immediately went on hunger strike. His death after a 74 day fast
was covered in the world’s press, and was a major setback for British interests in Ireland.
A most attractive association item, linking two great Corkmen.
€1500 - 2000
539
ISAAC BUTT
A paid cheque for £30 payable to Wm. D. Barnett, dated August 3rd 1877, drawn on The
National Bank, Dublin, crossed, stamped PAID, with filing perforation, signed by Butt,
countersigned by recipient at rear (which is soiled).
Isaac Butt [1813-79], born in Co. Donegal, was a scholar and barrister, one of the founders of the Dublin University Magazine, an MP, and founder of the Home Rule movement
in 1870. He defended William Smith O’Brien after the 1848 Rising, and later defended
many Fenian prisoners in the 1860s, consequently losing the opportunity of lucrative
State briefs. His signature is scarce.
€400 - 600
540
FREE STATE CHEQUES
A very good collection of 38 paid cheques and two others, issued mainly by prominent
members of the Free State Army, 1922 and later, including Gen. Sean Mac Eoin ( 5
cheques), Owen O’Duffy ( 4), Col. Felix Cronin (6), Lieut. Joseph Williams (Bantry, 4),
Capt. D. Lehane (2), E. O Nuanain (2), Donnchadh O hAnnagain and various others,
with one blank unwritten cheque. One cheque (fully filled out) is stamped CANCELLED.
One cheque has a Rialtas Sealadach na hEireann overprinted postage stamp. Most of the
cheques are countersigned to rear.
Many of the cheques are for large amounts - two from Gen. Mac Eoin are for £500 and
£2,000, and many others are in the hundreds. Presumably some were for supply payments. They give an interesting impression of the sums of money which apparently were
readily available to Free State officers.
The payees are generally other Army officers, including Col. Cmdt. Alex McCabe,
Seamus O’Farrelly Cmdt. Gen., C’dant P.A. Mulcahy, Brigadier Gen. Hannigan, etc.
Some are payable to ‘Self’ or to the signatory using his name and rank. One of Gen.
MacEoin’s cheques is payable to Imperial Hotel Claremorris (for £7.5.9d).
General Sean MacEoin, the ‘Blacksmith of Ballinalee’, was one of the most significant
personalities of the independence struggle. He was a close friend of Collins, who delayed
implementation of the ‘Truce’ in 1921 until the British agreed not to execute the death
sentence outstanding against MacEoin. He took the Free State side in the Civil War, as
head of Western Command. Owen O’Duffy, also an associate of Collins, was assistant
chief of staff of the Free State Army from January 1922; he became head of the Garda in
September. Col. Felix Cronin is best known as the later husband of Collins’ sweetheart
Kitty Kiernan.
As a collection.
€4500 - 5500
127
541
Republican Bond Certificate:
With Rare Advertising Flyer De Valera (Eamon) Republic of Ireland - Bond Certificate Ten Dollars, issued January
21st 1920 by De Valera, President of the Elected Government of the Republic of Ireland,
to Edmund Burke, No. 151564 (manuscript No. B 9960), with Dev’s engraved signature
in Irish, engraved green Celtic designed border, approx. 6” x 9”, very good condition;
together with the original American colour printed advertising leaflet, Subscribe to the
First Loan of the Republic of Ireland, 9” x 6”. A very rare pair. (2)
€500 - 700
542
Very Rare Republican Bond
[De Valera (E.)] An extremely fine example of the rare Republic of Ireland Bond
Certificate for £25, printed in blue and black, and with printed signatures of Eamon
de Bhaileara, President, and Sean Ua Nunain, Registrar. Dated January 21st 1920,
and issued to (in manuscript) G.H. Brickweade, and with Serial No. 34816, printed in
red. Approximately 15 x 22.5cm, with m/ss no. CC29383, in extremely fine condition,
except for a small nip in one corner. (1)
€700 - 900
543
Dev and The Irish Press
[De Valera (Eamon)] An important ledger containing manuscript application and allotment details for shares in the Irish Press newspaper, circa early 1928 - 1935, including
applications numbered 5001 - 10,468, on oblong folio sheets, numbered 201 - 450, some
sheets reinforced at edges, stoutly bound in a heavy quarter Morocco ledger.
The entries contain full details of applicants names and addresses, including those
from the whole of Ireland and Northern Ireland, England, U.S.A., Australia and New
Zealand, also details of occupation which includes applicants from every walk of life,
including teachers and university professors, doctors, dentists, nurses, farmers, merchants and shopkeepers, priests and nuns, students and spinsters, engine drivers, coopers, firemen, boiler makers, spade finishers, barbers, quarrymen, labourers, carriage
painters, barbers, author (Miss Dorothy Macardle), civil servants, taxmen, pensioners
etc., etc. The document also records the numbers of shares applied for, and granted, the
amount of deposit and other remarks. A large number of sheets are signed at bottom
corner (over 100 times) ‘E. deV’ or as ‘Eamon de Valera’ with date (about 30 times),
indicating that ‘Dev’ kept a very close eye on the progress of the issue. The applications
are partly listed in alphabetical order, in groups. Several sheets are signed by Edmund
Williams with a note indicating Board approval of the allotments. Entries towards the
end indicate a large number of allotments to members of the De Valera family, also
Robert C. Barton (‘farmer’) etc. As a m/ss ledger, w.a.f.
* The Irish Press was incorporated by Eamon de Valera in 1928 as a vehicle for challenging the anti-Republican bias in the existing Irish newspapers; the first issue was
published in 1931. It was partly funded by moneys entrusted to De Valera by American
subscribers to an earlier fund for the Irish Republic, an arrangement which gave the De
Valera family effective control of the paper and its policy. The present ledger is valuable
both as evidence of Fianna Fail’s support base in its early years and as possible evidence
as to the De Valera share holding and how it originated.
* A Unique and important historical document. (1)
€2500 - 3500
128
544
Exceedingly Rare Republican Uniform
Citizen Army: An original Citizen Army Uniform Tunic, dark greenish
black cloth, with dark green leather buttons and brass officer rank shoulder
badges, in excellent condition, formerly the property of John Kelly, Citizen
Army member in 1916, with a sheet of paper with his signature, and a reproduction photograph of The Citizen Army on parade.
The Irish Citizen Army was the smallest of the armed bodies involved
in the Rising of 1916, and it is believed that no more than 200 men took
part under James Connolly’s leadership, fighting mainly in the G.P.O. The
Citizen Army was founded as a worker’s militia during the Dublin LockOut of 1913.
* Exceedingly Rare. (1)
€2500 - 3500
545
Free State Medical Corps Uniform
A very good Irish Free State Officer’s Dress Uniform, for the Medical
Corps, belonging to Capt. Nolan. Included are his Shako, his Cape of black
felt with velvet collar and purple lining with cloak chain and large gilded
buttons bearing harp in centre and flanked with “I” and “Vi”, his tunic of
navy felt with red facing on cuffs, with seven gilded buttons with harp and
“I.V.” and gold thread epaulettes, matching Trousers, with wine felt trim,,
and with leather backed belt with gilt webbed front and gilt buckle, the crest
inscribed ‘Oglaigh na h’Eireann Cumann Leighis.’ A very rare uniform. As
a costume, w.a.f. (1)
€1000 - 1500
546
Irish Flag from American Civil War Period
A painted and stencilled green linen Flag, with legend “Erin Go Bragh” over
a United Irish Harp with female profile and sprays of shamrock (probably
originally gilt), approx. 56cms x 87cms (22” x 34”), worn and frayed at one
end, also stained, now mounted and framed, probably mid-19th Century
and reputed to be associated with an Irish Regiment in the period of the
American Civil War. As a flag, w.a.f.
* Hayes Mc Coy (“Irish Flag” 1979) states that ‘all the American -Irish
military organisations .. in the 1950’s and throughout the period of the
Civil War, adapted the green flag as the basis of their unit colours.’ (p.
159). Thomas Francis Meagher’s celebrated Irish Brigade had a least three
regimental flags, which were carried at the crucial Civil War Battles;
a Confederate Officer at Malvern Hill is said to have cried ‘Here’s that
damned green flag again’ V. Rare. (1)
€1000 - 1500
129
547
Rare Home Rule Flag
An attractive Home Rule Parade Flag, possibly 1890’s, green linen with
the words ‘Home Rule’ over a harp hand embroidered in yellow silk thread
edges machine stitched, sleeved for a carrying pole at left, approx. 17” x 35”
(44cms x 89cms), a little faded in parts, but generally in very good condition. Rare. (1)
€400 - 600
548
Funeral of O’Donovan Rossa, 1915
An extremely rare Black and purple silk Funeral Sash with leather backing
which was worn by Daniel Tynan, B. Company, First Dublin Battalion, Irish
Republican Army, who served as Volunteer at the funeral of O’Donovan
Rossa in 1915. a few small rips, otherwise a very good example of this
rare item. Together with a soiled copy of Diarmuid O’Donnabhain Rossa
1831 - 1915, Souvenir of the Public Funeral to Glasnevin Cemetery, Dublin,
August 1st, 1915. As a lot. (2)
€200 - 300
549
The Waterford Irish Party Flag
Irish Party Flag: A very large and impressive Irish Party processional flag,
poplin, approx. 153cms x 253cms (60” x 100”), stitched in sections, a central
panel with a stringed harp in gold. inset on a green background with flagstaff mountings to one side, outer edge frayed somewhat, otherwise v. good
for such a large example.
Provenance: Mr. Bernie Colclough, Waterford, Author, Historian &
Collector. (1)
€800 - 1200
550
The Waterford Brigade Tri-Colour
Tricolour Flag: A large linen tricolour Flag, machine stitched in panels,
approx. 86cms x 224cms (34” x 88”), some stains, but generally in excellent
order.
An exceptional example of a rare relic from very troubled times in Ireland’s
history. (1)
Provenance: Formerly the property of a Senior Officer in the Waterford
Brigade, and hence by descent to the present owner.
* Thomas Francis Meagher (Waterford man), “Meagher of the Sword” having visited France on a political juncture envisaged a tricolour of green/
white/gold having seen the influence that the French tricolour had on its
own nation. He purchased while in France silk material and stitched the
first prototype of the Irish tricolour.
€700 - 900
130
551
The Soloheadbeg Hand Gun
The War of Independence: a heavy Hand-Gun with revolving chamber, the
wooden handle worn, the chamber roof inscribed but worn. Reputed to have
been removed from the ambush at Soloheadbeg on the 21st January 1919,
an event which marked the start of the War of Independence, in which two
R.I.C. Constables were shot in an ambush by the Third Tipperary Brigade,
lead by Breen, Treacy, Robinson, Lacy, Babington and others for arms and
gelignite. A truly rare and scarce memento from a historic event. (1)
Provenance: Jim Babington, Third Tipperary Brigade, to the present
owner.
€600 - 800
552
A Royal Irish Constabulary officer’s dress sword,
made by Phillips, Dame street, Dublin, having pierced metal hand guard
decorated with crowned harp emblem, wire bound shagreen grip and original metal scabbard, in leather case. Very fine condition.
Provenance: This sword was owned by Sgt. Robert Maxwell, R.I.C. who
joined in 1902 and served until it’s change to the R.U.C. in 1922, he then
continued his service with the R.U.C. until his retirement.
€1200 - 1500
553
An early Irish Army Officer’s
sword
with pierced brass guard, wire bound shagreen grip and original brown
leather scabbard c. 1925. Stamped ‘Germany’ on the blade and numbered
‘4’ underneath pommel. The blade is typically decorated with etched celtic
design and FF insignia. A good example in generally good condition.
These swords first came into use in 1925 and the early examples were
manufactured in Germany. The guard features the FF device which was
first adopted in 1913 by the Irish Volunteers and is still used today as the
cap badge of the Irish Defence Forces.
€3000 - 5000
131
554
An Irish Army Officer’s sword,
having pierced brass guard with ‘FF’ insignia, wire bound shagreen grip
and black leather scabbard. A later example of the lot above.
€600 - 800
555
A Royal Irish Constabulary sword,
with pierced metal semi basket hand guard decorated with crowned
harp emblem and wire bound shagreen grip. Without scabbard.
€500 - 800
556
A Dundalk Rifles sword
made by Clowes & Woodward, Dublin & London. The blade attractively
decorated and bearing the maker’s name, ‘Dundalk Rifles’, the bugle
emblem of the Rifle Corps and crown, the pierced metal hand guard
also bearing the bugle emblem, with wire bound shagreen grip and
metal scabbard with the address ‘6 Derry Lane, Dundalk’.
€1000 - 1500
556A An Ancient Order of Hibernians sword,
Early 20th Century. The ivory handle and helmet shaped pommel form
part of the attractive hilt above plain double edged blade. With original
metal scabbard mounted with A.O.H. motifs.
€400 - 600
132
557
A British Rifles Volunteer sword
made by Dolan & Co., St Martin’s Lane, London. The blade attractively
decorated and bearing the maker’s name, ‘Volunteer Rifles’, bugle emblem
of the Rifle Corps and crown, the pierced metal hand guard also bearing
the bugle emblem, with wire bound shagreen grip and metal and leather
scabbard.
€400 - 600
558
A 19th Century naval officer’s sword,
with decorative gilt metal hand guard and pommel in the form of a lion’s
head together with a gilt metal and leather scabbard.
€600 - 800
559
A Royal Irish Rifle Officer’s sword
made by J. Reilly & Son, College Green, Dublin. The blade attractively decorated and bearing the maker’s name, ‘Royal Irish Rifles’, bugle emblem of
the Rifle Corps and crown, the pierced metal hand guard also bearing the
bugle emblem, with wire bound shagreen grip and metal scabbard.
€1000 - 1500
560
An important and very early 18th Century Dublin Castle Plug Bayonet,
with 45.5cms (18”) steel blade & brass hilt engraved ‘L. Dublin (6) Castle’. A
very good example of very rare early Irish bayonet. (1)
€1000 - 2000
133
561
“The Majors Sam Brown”
Mac Bride (Major John), his Sam Brown Belt with brass hooks, pins and
buckles, with shoulder strap and link. good.
Provenance: This Sam Brown was left along with his pistol, which was being
repaired at Lamberts, Hatch Street, Dublin prior to Easter Week 1916, by
Major Mac Bride, due to his subsequent arrested and death penalty, these
items were not returned, hence by descent to the present owner.
N.B. See lot 529, April 20th, 2010 (Independence)
€300 - 400
561A
Courtiers Sword:
An attractive Courtiers Sword, the inner guard with a wire bound grip,
the hilt depicting a jeweled crown, together with a handsome gilt decorated crimson silk train. The tapering blade surmounted by a gilt profusely
decorated guard inscribed “V.R.” (Victoria Regina), the blade with floral
design, housed in a leather scabbard, with gilt metal guards and a scallop
shell motif. Made by Lambert & Brown Co., London & Dublin, some wear
and scuffs. Scarce. (1)
€250 - 350
562
An Irish Army Officer’s sword
with pierced brass guard, wire bound shagreen grip and brown leather
scabbard, the blade decorated with etched celtic design and FF insignia.
€1200 - 1500
134
563
Irish Army Cap Badges & Pins
Oglaigh na hEireann 1915 - 1970: An important collection of various army issue Cap
Badges,of varying size, and mostly depicting the star / sunburst, with pierced centre,
surrounded by “Oglaigh na hEireann,” and the “F.F.” emblem, to include pattern from
(A) 1915 Dublin Brigade; (B) 1920 Issue; (C) 1930 Issue; (D) 1940 Issue (E) 1st Pattern
1939 Officer; (F) Naval Issue, 1950; (G) 1960’s Pattern Issue; (H) Officer (Bronze on
Red) (I) Nurses Pattern Issue; (J) 1970 Pattern Issue; (K) L.D.F. (Forsa cosanta Aitiula)
Lapel Badge; (L) Coiste (Target / Rifle) Badge, together with three other Army Issue
Cap Badges, mostly brass, as a collection, w.a.f. Scarce and unusual (15)
€600 - 800
564
The 1916 Golden Jubilee Medal
A 1916 - 1966 Survivors Medal, silver gilt with ribbon and bar, the obverse depicting
the fallen Cuchulainn, the reverse inscribed “1916 Caisc 1966” recipient unknown, by
J.M. (John Miller) Dublin. Good clean example. (1)
€2500 - 3000
565
Rare Pair of Miniature 1916 - 1921 Medals
1916-1921, a pair of Medals (recipient unknown), including 1916 combatants Medal,
a very fine example of this rare miniature medal of 1916, issued only to Officers,
with original decorated clasp and green and gold ribbon, together with a War of
Independence. “Comhrac” miniature Medal, with black and amber ribbon “Comhrac”
bar and clasp. A rare pair. Scarce. (1)
€2000 - 3000
566
Civil War Emigrant
Co. Limerick: War of Independence, a black and tan Medal with “Comhrac” bar,
inscribed on reverse for recipient Daniel Conway, together with a group photograph,
immigration Identification Card dated 24.1.1926, all housed in a leather wallet. A nice
clean Medal, good. (3)
* Daniel Conway was a Captain in the Irish Volunteers and Irish Republican Army in
Limerick in 1921. Many I.R.A. men, including Conway escaped post the Civil War to
America via Nova Scotia, Canada.
€700 - 900
567
Co. Clare Cumann na mBan
Co. Clare War of Independence, a set of Cumann na mBan Medals including the black
and tan and 1971 Jubilee, together with Cumann na mBan silver Badge designed by
Countess Markievicz awarded to Brigid Glenny of of Miltown Malbay, a good clean
set. Rare. (3)
€600 - 800
135
568
The Frongoch “Roll-Callers” Medals
Deere (Conor) His 1916 Combatants Medal, the star-burst with central relief depicting a fallen
Cuchulainn, the reverse inscribed “Seachtain na Casca 1916, Con Deere,” with a green and orange
ribbon, supported by a Celtic design pin; together with his “Comhrac,” War of Independence
Medal, the obverse with a soldier, surrounded by provincial arms and inscribed “Eire” the reverse
inscribed “Con Deere, 1922,” with a black and amber ribbon, and Celtic design support; together
with paper work and original photograph. A very important collection.
* Con Deere of Gooldcross was imprisoned in Reading Gaol in 1916. The Thirty or so Prisoners in
Reading had been selected by the British as the most prominent and active of the 2,000 volunteers
at that time, interned in England. They included Griffith, Mac Swiney, Mc Curtain, O’Kelly,
Milroy and other well known men.
€3000 - 4000
569
1916 “F” Company, 4th Battalion I.R.A. Medal Set 1916 - 22:
Kerr (Michael). An attractive set of 1916 Rising Medal and a Comhrac Medal, (a) the bronze
sunbrust shaped Medal, the obverse depicting The Fallen Cuchulainn, the reverse inscribed
Seachtainn na Casca, 1916, suspended on a green and orange ribbon and Celtic design bar, in
original box; (b) the bronze circular shaped Medal, the obverse depicting a soldier and flanked
by the provincial arms, suspended on a black and amber ribbon, with Comhrac bar and Celtic
design clasp, in original box, both in good condition. (2)
* Michael Kerr attended his sister’s Kathleen’s wedding at 8.30 a.m. in Terenure Church on Easter
Monday 24th, April 1916, skipped the wedding breakfast and left to muster at Emerald Square,
Dolphin’s Barn at 11 am, with “F” Company 4th, Battalion I.R.A. Because of confusion about the
cancellation of the Rising only 100 men of 500 turned up, who then marched to South Dublin
Union where he fought under Cathal Brugha, Eamonn Ceannt and William T. Cosgrave until
they surrendered by order of Patrick Pearse on Saturday 29th. Taken to Wellington Barracks (now
Griffith Barracks) and lined up against a wall, thought they were going to be shot! 30th April or
1st May 200 men, May 2nd 308 men, and May 5th, 360 men marched from Wellington Barracks to
North Wall to cattle ship to Liverpool; train to Manchester and into Knutsford Cheshire, thence
to Frongoch. Best man at wedding was Charlie Donnelly from Donnelly’s shop near the Yellow
House, Rathfarnham who also left to go and fight in the GPO with Pearse.
Kerr was interned in Knutsford Jail near Manchester where conditions were very harsh, and then
moved to Frongoch in Wales. He, with most of the prisoners, was released on 23rd December
1916, sailed back to Ireland and docked at Carlisle Pier in Dun Laoghaire, thence by train to
triumphant welcome in Dublin. Kathleen and husband Victor Cummings moved to Manchester
after their wedding and Kathleen visited him at Knutsford and Frongoch and brought letters to
and from him concealed in her clothing.
During the Civil War he was a Captain in IRA 5th Battalion, Dublin Brigade IRA. He took part in
burning of Custom House, and siege of Moran’s Hotel, Arrested at his sister’s house in November
1922, at 11 Armstrong Street, Harold’s Cross by Free State soldiers. He spent time as a prisoner of
the Free State in Wellington Barracks and then in Curragh Camp.
€3000 - 4000
570
Irish Citizen Army 1916, Medal Set
Medals: 1916 Rising & War of Independence Medals, awarded to Mr. Thomas Shiel, 8 Emerald
Street, off Seville Place, Dublin. I.C.A. (Irish Citizen Army), included are his 1916 Medal and
ribbon with complimentary card and original box; his W.O.I. (War of Independence) “Comhrac”
Medal and ribbon; and also his “1916” armband by “Bergins” a most attractive and clean group.
Scarce. (1)
€4000 - 5000
136
571
HENRY JOSEPH WILLIAMS [2nd Batt. Old IRA], 1889-1961
His original Easter Week bronze medal on ribbon, engraved rear ‘Seachtmhain na
Casca 1916’, in original box (a little worn) with addressed packing, with associated
items including a ribbon strip, compliments slip, fringed 1916-49 badge, Tricolour pin
and Fainne, with a framed portrait of Mr. Williams in later years and a selection of
personal documents including confirmation of his military service, birth certificates
etc.
€3000 - 5000
572
HENRY JOSEPH WILLIAMS [2nd Batt. Old IRA]
A collection of medals and badges in a tin box including white metal Parnell medal on
chain, 1891; Irish Volunteers tricolour enamelled badge with crossed swords; National
Volunteers badge; gilt locket containing a photograph of a young man; shamrock
badge; several Eucharistic Congress badges and a few others.
€300 - 500
573
HENRY JOSEPH WILLIAMS [2nd Batt. Old IRA]
A good autograph album, leatherbound, signatures include Art O Griobhthaigh /
Arthur Griffith 7.4.1919; Geo. A. Lyons, I.R.A., B Coy., Batt. III; Sean O Cuilinn, D
Co. III Battn Dublin Brigade; Sean Mac Mathghamhna, Batt. III Dublin Brigade; B.
Mellows (brother of Liam), 26.4.19, opposite a drawing of Ferrycarrig which may
be his work; an attractive flower drawing signed N. Brady 14.8.19; S. O Donghaile,
Adjutant, Batt. III Dublin Brigade IRA; and others, including some religious, in very
good condition.
€300 - 500
574
Important Set of Irish Service Medals and Certificates
Fallon (Robert) A very good set of Irish Service Medals awarded to Robert Fallon,
including:
* 1917 - 1921 service Medal, with Presidential presentation slip;
* 1939 - 1946 “Seirbhis Naisuinta” Medal with two bars;
* Original named ‘Seirbhis Naisuinta,’ Certificate;
* Fianna Eireann Jubilee Medal 1909 - 1959. These were issued to Fianna members
who participated in the War of Independence.
* Original Fianna Eireann named Certificate, dam., but extremely scarce.
* An Oglaigh na hEireann Cap Badge;
* An original Photograph of Robert Fallon, name on reverse.
A rare and attractive collection, as a lot, w.a.f. (1)
€1800 - 2200
137
575
Thomas Reynolds [1771 – 1836] The 1798 Informer
A 18ct Gold shaped oval medal, presented on the 15th of October 1798 to Tho. Reynolds, by the
Master Wardens & Brethren of the Guild of Merchants of Dublin.
Engraved on one side with the crest of the guild, and the obverse with the above dedication
which continues, “together with the freedom of that Guild, and an address expression of their
high sense of the truly Honorable and Important services that he had rendered to his country.
W. Linday Senr Master
P.Powell Junr Master
J.Dickenson Warden
W.Walsh Warden
8cm x 4.5cm
Thomas Reynolds was born in Lincoln Place in 1771, son of a wealthy poplin manufacturer.
The young Reynolds was educated abroad by the Jesuits at their seminary in Liege. On his
return to Ireland he married and settled down to life as a silk merchant. Upon the death of his
father he inherited considerable wealth, however poor management and a profligate lifestyle led
Reynolds to virtual bankruptcy. The family had rented Kilkea castle from the Duke of Leinster,
arranged by Lord Edward Fitzgerald, the very man he was later to denounce. Thomas Reynolds
became a member of the United Irishmen in 1798, but he became nervous about their plans,
and with the inducement of promised riches from William Cope, who was an agent for Dublin
Castle, Reynolds became an informer for the Government. It is worth noting as evidence of the
seriousness with which the British Government viewed the prospect of Rebellion in Ireland ,
that William Cope had £100,000 at his disposal to secure information to break up any intended
plot for insurrection. The Army, unaware of his role for the Castle, arrested Reynolds with the
intent of coercing him into spying for them, however a timely letter to William Cope secured
his release, returning him to his spying activities
On March 17th Reynolds betrayed the meeting of the Leinster Directory of the United Irishmen.
The meeting, held at the house of Oliver Bond was broken up and the conspirators arrested,
Oliver Bond was later murdered in prison. Lord Edward Fitzgerald, warned of the raid, was
absent at the time, but forced to become a fugitive. He was arrested by Major Henry Sirr in a
house in Thomas Street on the 19th of May, dying later of wounds suffered during his arrest,
and left without treatment by the authorities.
For his role in the arrests and the subsequent quelling of the rebellion Reynolds was paid the
princely sum of £5000 together with a pension of £1000 per year for life, and a government posting. In addition he was presented by the city merchants with this gold medal and a gold freedom
box, the whereabouts of which is unknown.
Reynolds and his wife Henrietta – whose sister Maltilda had married Theobald Wolfe Tone –
left the country after the trials of the United Irishmen. He obtained various diplomatic posts
becoming Consul at Copenhagen in 1819.
The British Government stated subsequently that the information supplied by Reynolds was
critical to the suppression of the rebellion. Once the leaders had been arrested, it was merely a
matter of mopping up their followers. This splendid and valuable medal indicates the significance which the Guild of Merchants - an independant body - attached to the information he
gave, a deed which they characterised as ;the truely Honorable & Important Services he had
rendered to his Country’.
€10000 - 15000
138
576
Colonel Sir Thomas Myles Knt. CB. MD. FRCSI (1857 -1937)
The orders, decorations and medals awarded to Colonel Sir Thomas
Myles, President of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland 1900 1902, prominent Irish nationalist, gun runner and surgeon to the
King in Ireland.
- Badge of a Knight Bachelor, in silver gilt, London 1926
- Companion of the Most Honourable Order of Bath (CB), breast
badge converted for neck wear, in silver gilt and enamel (c. 1917).
This order was awarded for his distinguished medical services during the Easter Rising.
- 1914 - 1920 War medal with oak leaf emblem representing
‘Mention-in-Despatches’
- 1902 Coronation medal in silver
- 1911 Coronation medal in silver
- 1935 Silver Jubilee Medal
Thomas Myles, a House Surgeon in Dr. Steeven’s Hospital attended,
without avail, the victims of the Pheonix Park murders. He became
a noted surgeon in Edwardian Dublin and was knighted in 1902. He
published tracts on the advancement of surgery and was known as a
“good rectum man”.
However, Myles was also of a strong Nationalist disposition and
became a friend of Erskine Childers and both were keen yachtsmen. Myles yacht “the Chotah” was used with the “Asgard” to take
part in the famous gun-running on 1st August 1914. He did not
approve of the Easter Rising and spent the week on medical duties
at the Richmond Hospital for which he was made a Companion of
the Order of Bath. This was a fraught period with possesion of the
Hospital changing sides. Myles insisted on treating all in need of
medical help regardless of which side they were on. He used his rank
as a Colonel in the British Army to get Eamon Martin to safety and
subsequently to USA.
He rose by merit to the top of his profession and was besides a boxer,
sportsman, raconteur, energetic and fearless. This lot commemorates
a very special Irishman.
€4000 - 6000
139
577
The Man Who was Sinn Fein’
O’Caoimh (Padraig or Paudie) 1881-1973. A superb and important display
of his 1916 and War of Independence Medals, attractively mounted and
framed with his Irish Volunteer uniform buttons and cap badge, and his 1916
Survivor’s Armband (worn at commemorative parade 1935), and with a good
original photograph. The Collection here offered include:
a. His 1916 bronze Medal with ribbon and pin;
b. His War of Independence bronze Medal (1917-1921), with scarce ‘Comrac’
bar;
c. His 1916-1966 silver gilt Survivors Medal, bar and ribbon;
d. His 1921-1971 bronze Jubilee Medal with clasp and ribbon. With three
Volunteer buttons, his Volunteer Cap Badge, and his rare 1916 - 1935 Survivors
Armband (worn by 1916 veterans only, before the issue of the medals).
Paudie O’Keeffe was a close friend and associate of Arthur Griffith from the
early days of Sinn Fein, and also a very good friend of his fellow Corkman
Michael Collins. Born in Co. Cork, he worked as a post office sorter and
joined the I.R.B. there. About 1901 he was transferred to the G.P.O. in Dublin,
& in 1908 he became joint-honorary Treasurer of Sinn Fein. He married Cait
de Paor, one of the Wyse Power family in 1910, her brother John Wyse Power
was a founder member of the G.A.A. Paudie was also in the Banba Rifle Club
(1912-13), whose members practiced shooting in the Greenmount Oil Works
in Harold’s Cross (owned by the Le Brocquy family); others members included
Cathal Brugha, Sean Mac Diarmada, and Eamonn Ceant; Brugha was the best
shot according to Paudie. In 1914 Paudie had a major part in the Kilcoole arms
landings for the Volunteers. In April 1916 he was closely involved with Griffith
and Eoin Mac Neill in the exchanges over plans for Easter Sunday. At one stage
Mac Neill sent him to ask at the Sunday Independent office what was the latest
time a notice (of cancellation) could be accepted. Nevertheless when the Rising went ahead on Easter Monday, Paudie showed up with his rifle, leaving
his wife and three children, and served in one of the O’Connell Street garrisons, opposite the G.P.O. holding out until the building collapsed around
him. He was imprisoned after the Rising, and on his release was appointed full-time General Secretary of Sinn Fein. He played a major part in building
up the party organisation; it has been said that ‘Paudie O’Keefe was Sinn Fein.’ British Army raids on his office made no difference, because Paudie
kept every detail in his head. He had a notable turn of phrase; around this time a visiting British journalist (Sir Arthur Gibbs), asked him what was the
meaning of these strange words ‘Sinn Fein’; the answer he gave was ‘Vengeance, bejasus, vengeance.’ Paudie was elected a member of the First Dail and
was imprisoned again for a seditious speech; he supported the Treaty, and after Independence was appointed deputy governor of Mountjoy Jail. It is said
that he found the job distasteful, and in the 1920’s he moved to the Seanad as assistant Clerk. Many years later as one of the four surviving members
of the First Dail, he was asked for his memories of the Civil War. ‘Ah,’ he said ‘when they shot Liam Mellows that broke my heart,’ (cf. Seamus O’Neill,
‘The Man who was Sinn Fein,’ Irish Press 27.9.1973).
A superb collection, attractively mounted and preserved, commemorating one of the central and best-loved figures of the Independent Movement,
before and after 1916. (1)
(Ex Lot 670 , Independence 2008)
€10000 - 15000
140
578
‘Rosie’ Hackett I.C.A.
The medals of a remarkable Irish woman. comprising of
- 1916 Rising Medal, named on reverse
- War of Independence Medal, with ‘Comhrac’ bar, named on reverse
- 1939 - 1946 “Seirbhis Naisuinta” Medal
- 1916 - 1966 Survivors Medal.
- 1921 - 1971 Commemorative Jubilee Medal
Born in 1892, Rosie Hackett was the young trade unionist, deeply influenced by Delia Larkin, James
Larkin and James Connolly, who organized the 3,000 women in Jacob’s factory during the great lockout
strike of 1913, when she was still only 18. She trained as a printer after being dismissed from Jacob’s and
was in Liberty Hall while the Proclamation was printed. It is claimed that she brought the first copy,
still damp, to James Connolly. She was a member of the Irish Citizen Army and served with Countess
Markievicz in the Royal College of Surgeons during Easter Week and was sent to Kilmainham Jail. On
her release she re-founded the Irish Women Workers’ Union with Louie Bennett and Helen Chenevix.
Later she took charge of the ITGWU’s newspaper shop near Liberty Hall and in 1970 was awarded a
gold medal in recognition of her 60 years service to the Irish trade union movement.
€5000 - 8000
579
One of the Rarest Irish Service Medals: Merchant Marine Medal,
1939 - 1946. A very good Irish Emergency Service Medal, issued to the Merchant Marine Service, An
tSeirbhis Mhuir-Thrachttala, with clasp & 2 bars on blue and white ribbon. The obverse with female
figure holding Irish wolfhound, the reverse a large steamship at sea with a sailing vessel just visible. The
obverse was designed by Lawrence Campbell & the reverse by Donal Murphy. In very good condition.
* Extremely Rare. This is one of only 37 of these medals issued with two bars. It is also very unusual in
that it has different designers for obverse and reverse of the same medal.
€1800 - 2200
580
PRISON SHIP ‘ARGENTA’ 1922
An unusual autograph book from the prison ship ‘Argenta’, with a large number of signatures of prisoners, almost all with Northern Ireland addresses, mostly late 1922, many with humorous or patriotic
quatrains, compiled by Ted [Edward] Brady, late of Cloghan, Belturbet, Co. Cavan, also with an address
at Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh. See Denise Kleinrichert, Republican Internment and the Prison Ship
Argenta 1922 [included with lot], where he is listed at p. 338.
Signatures include Mícheál mac Eochaidh, W. Quillan, Packie Murphy, J.P. Kearns, Michael Carraher,
Charlie Magee, Peter Rafferty, Mick McIlhatton, Frankie Corr, Owen Montague, John Grimes, John
Bell, Joseph McKenny, Michael O’Neill, Liam Ua Donngaile, Art Mac Partolon (quoting Shakespeare),
F.G.Duffy, Jim Rooney, Seosamh O Cianain, Patrick Gormley, etc. etc.
On the night of 22-23 May 1922 about 300 men and women were arrested and detained under emergency powers in Northern Ireland. Almost all were Nationalists and Catholics, but not all were Sinn
Feiners or IRA members. Most of the men were interned on the Argenta, securely moored in Larne
harbour, where conditions were very tough and escape almost impossible. There were several hunger
strikes, including a major strike involving upwards of 150 men in the winter of 1923.
‘When you are on some lonely road,
Waiting some friends to see,
Let your thoughts turn towards the Argenta,
And sometimes think of me ..’ [Frankie Corr]
With a War of Independence bronze medal on black-and-tan ribbon with ‘Comhrac’ clasp, in original
presentation box (worn) and remains of registered delivery package (address probably Enniskillen),
and with a 1921-1971 commemorative medal on ribbon with lapel strip in original presentation box. It
is believed these medals may also have been awarded to Edward Brady.
€1500 - 2000
141
581
1882 Irish Athletic Champion medal
awarded to Pat Davin.
The silver medal in the form of a cross, won for the 120 yds. Hurdle in a time
of 16 3/5 sec. Slightly scuffed, showing signs of wear, but good condition
overall. An excessively rare item.
Pat Davin, was the youngest of four brothers from Deerpark, Carrickon-Suir, Co. Tipperary, born to John and Bridget Davin. Their eldest son
Maurice was a world renowned athlete and later went on to become the
First President of the G.A.A. Pat Davin achieved remarkable success in all
sports from an early age. In 1878 he won his first championship in the 120
yard hurdles, he again won the event in 1879, 1880, 1882 and 1883 and in
1881 he won the English High Jump Championship, The Long Jump and
The Hammer (Old Style) on his way to becoming one of the World’s best all
round athletic champions.
€2000 - 3000
582
A very rare pair of early G.A.A. medals,
both awarded to J. Hennessy in 1885 & 1886.
Two attractive silver circular medals in fine condition, the 1885 medal
awarded for The Three Mile Walk and the 1886 medal for The Seven Mile
Walk. The obverse finely decorated with Irish motifs of harp, round tower,
celtic cross and crossed hurley & hammer and bearing the initials W.T.P.,
the reverse decorated with a centred shamrock, engraved with the names
‘Parnell’, ‘Davitt’ and ‘Dr. Croke’ on each leaf and surrounding border
engraved with details of event and winner.
These medals were issued in the first and second years after the G.A.A was
founded and therefore are exceptionally rare and fine examples.
€4000 - 6000
583
A very rare ‘1920 Irish Troubles’ Constabulary Medal
awarded to Constable William Dunphy, Royal Irish Constabulary. The
Contabulary Medal, 2nd type, the obverse depicting harp surmounted by
crown and surrounded by shamrock, with border inscription, ‘Reward of
Merit Royal Irish Constabulary’, the reverse inscribed ‘Constable William
Dunphy, 64671, 1920’ and border decorated with leaves and shamrock, with
straight bar swivel suspension and silver brooch bar on green ribbon. In
very fine condition.
* Constable William Dunphy was awarded the Constabulary Medal, Ireland
for his part in the defence of the police barracks at Camp, Co. Kerry, when it
was under attack by elements of the Irish Republican Army, 19th February
1920. A total of 280 Constabulary Medals were awarded for the ‘troubles’
between 1916 and 1922; of these, 180 medals were awarded for occurrences
during 1920.
€10000 - 15000
142
584
SINN FEIN FLAG, EASTER 1916
A Sinn Fein tricolour flag, home-made, assembled from panels of
green, white and orange-brown cloth, with the words ‘Sinn Fein
go Deo’ [Sinn Fein Forever] painted freehand on the white central
section over a horizontal sprig of shamrocks, circa 30 x 56 ins [760
x 1420 mm], some of the original stitching perished but generally in
good condition, preserved in a rigid transparent plastic mount.
This flag was retrieved with other items by a Dublin Castle employee, Mr. James Hayes, in the yard of Dublin Castle in the immediate
aftermath of the Easter Rising, where they had been dumped by
British soldiers and RIC. There appears to be no reasonable doubt
that they have a Volunteer provenance, and were recovered from
some building occupied during the Rising. Flags and similar items
which can be reliably associated with the Rising are now very rare.
Provenance: Whytes, 1999, with letter of provenance; Adams/
Mealys Independence sale 2007, lot 510A, illus. in catalogue.
€10000 - 15000
585
GARDA SIOCHANA
PRESENTATION FLAG
A large fringed tricolour flag, pole mounting and braided cable
to one side, approx. 31 ½ in x 44 in [800 x 1120 mm], elaborately
embroidered with the words ‘Garda Siochana [Gaelic lettering]
/ Presented to The Hon. Richard E. Enright, Commissioner of
Police, New York City, from the Irish Police as a Token of Esteem.
International Police Conference 1925’.
Preserved behind a rigid transparent plastic cover (cracked at one
corner) on heavy cardboard backing, the cloth worn and fraying in
places, some staining.
Gen. Eoin O’Duffy, Garda Commissioner, headed the Irish delegation to this Conference; presumably the flag was made to his order.
An attractive and unique item.
€2000 - 4000
143
586
Rare Memento of Rebel Leader
Ashe (Thomas) 1916 Commandant
A small and unusual collection relating to the 1916 Leader, including a lock of Ashe’s hair, and a
pencilled note of authentication, signed by A. Stack, also a copy of Ashe’s memorial card with oval
photograph, and a circular locket containing an original photograph of Ashe, the entire displayed in
a glazed box.
* Thomas Ashe was the most successful of the 1916 commandants. He led a small force of Co. Meath
and North Dublin Volunteers which defeated a much larger force of armed R.I.C. at the ‘Battle of
Ashbourne’ during Easter Week. Born near Lispole in Co. Kerry in 1885, Thomas Ashe trained as a
national teacher and was principal of a school at Rush, Co. Dublin from 1908. He was active in the
Gaelic League and the Irish Volunteers, and was a friend of Sean O’Casey and a supporter of Jim
Larkin during the Dublin Lock-Out. After the Rising, he was sentenced to life imprisonment, but
released in June 1917. He was re-arrested on charge of incitement and jailed for two years. In Mountjoy
Jail he led a campaign for political status for Republican prisoners, and died following forcible feeding during a hunger strike. Some 30,000 people attended his funeral, at which Michael Collins was
the speaker.
N.B. We believe these items to be authentic, but are not in a position to offer a guarantee.
Provenance: From the collection of Mrs. Kathleen Napoli Mc Kenna, purchased some years ago by
present owner.
€800 - 1200
587
An 18th Century Irish carved fruitwood ‘Penal Cross’,
of traditional form under suspension loop, with narrow cross arm, carved with figure of the crucified
Christ in high relief flanked by incised ladder and spear, the reverse decorated with ‘IHS’ across transom with cross rising from the bar of ‘H’, dated 1749 and with symbols depicting the Passion - hammer and pincers, nails, loaves and fishes, and ‘cock over pot’ - all traditional iconography.
21.6 cm long, 6.4 cm wide
Provenance : Edward O’Cullen, one time Editor of The Wexford People and Ireland’s Own. Thence by
family descent to the current owner.
Literature : Ireland’s Own, April 1906, ‘In Grandmother’s Parlour - Forty Years Ago’ , Edward
O’Cullen wrote :
“In one of (Grandmother’s) bedrooms hung a quaint old wooden crucifix of rude workmanship, on
the back of which were carved the emblems of the Passion, the loaves and fishes, and other Scriptural
devices. It bears date of 1749 - (I still retain it, with other old family relics)- and belonged to grandmother’s grandmother who, by the way, was an O’Rourke of Breffni - the same old family that afterwards gave us Edmund O’Rourke, the dramatist and poet, and author of one of our country’s most
popular songs, “Killarney”.
“…..Grandmother’s old wooden crucifix was a relic of one of the worst periods of the penal times. The
family was, I need hardly add, intensely Catholic as well as intensely Irish.”
Penal crosses take their name from a series of laws passed to suppress the Catholic population in
Ireland and which were put into force in the late 16th Century onwards. The intended effect of the
Penal laws was to diminish the power and influence of the Irish Catholics and to reduce dramatically
their property holdings. According to the National Museum of Ireland, many of these crosses originated in the vicinity of St. Patrick’s Purgatory in Lough Derg, Co. Donegal and are likely to have been
produced as devotional souvenirs for pilgrims. It is thought that they were produced by local people
and dated the year they were made as in the present case, 1749.
€600 - 800
144
588
With Important Documents Tipped-In
“The Book of Trinity College Dublin 1591 - 1891,” 4 Belfast (Marcus Ward)
1892 First Edn.
A remarkable copy formerly the property of [Prof.] Francis Dixon, containing tipped in documents relating to the troops stationed in T.C.D. during
the 1916 Rising, including cyclostyled orders date 3 May 1916, congratulating the troops on their ‘gallantry and good behaviour during the past week
under trying conditions,’ inscribed ‘posted during occupation by military
in Dissecting Room T.C.D.,’; a pencilled list of men with their duties, similarly posted; a Dublin Metropolitan Police Pass issued to Prof. A.F. Dixon; a
similar pass from Military Authorities allowing him to pass anywhere until
7.30 p.m daily; a manuscript copy of a board minute congratulating the
O.T.C. and the graduates and other friends for the vigour and ability with
which they secured the safety of the College at the out break of the Sinn Fein
Rebellion; also a detailed two page manuscript list of the members of the
Garrison under Capt. E.H. Alton, O.T.C., including Prof. John Joly, compiled
by Lieut G. Waterhouse, 19.5.16. Tipped in at end is an unrelated note from
E.H. Alton to Dixon 1921. As an association copy, w.a.f. Rare. (1)
€600 - 800
589
Rare Presentation Trophy
Defence of Trinity College, Dublin, 1916
Silver Cup: A rare and attractive small silver Trophy Cup with twin looped
handles and beaded edge, approx. 8cms (3 1/8”)high, with Irish hall marks,
issued by West & Son, Dublin. Engraved inscription “DEFENCE OF T.C.D. /
SINN FEIN REBELLION / EASTER 1916,” to one side and name of recipient
Cadet Corpl. J.A. French to the other, on a fitted ebonised wooden base, in
excellent condition.
Shortly after the firing began in central Dublin on Monday 24 April 1916,
the gates of Trinity College were closed, and armed members of its Officer
Training Corps deployed themselves on the roof, with orders to shoot
any armed men not wearing uniforms and so presumed to be rebels (see
Caulfield “The Easter Rising,” p. 117 et seq.). They continued to ‘defend’
the College through the week although there is no indication that the rebels
had any plans to occupy it. It was however useful as a mustering station in
central Dublin for British Cavalry. After the Rising ended, the Board passed
resolution of thanks to those who had assisted in its defence (see Dixon’s
copy of “The Book of Trinity College” in this sale), and it was decided to issue
Souvenir silver Cups to those who had participated.
* It is reputed that approximately one hundred and twenty of these cups were
distributed, but very few are now known. Extremely Rare. (1)
€1500 - 2500
145
590
Manuscript: Organizing The Irish Volunteers
Terence MacSwiney’s Volunteer Diary 1915
A highly important manuscript diary or notebook recording MacSwiney’s daily activities as a Volunteer organiser in
Co. Cork, September-December 1915, in a small Eason’s card-covered pocket-book circa 6 1/2 ins x 4 ins [165 x 102 mm],
72 pp, stitched, contained in a specially made folding cloth case. There is no signature, but the handwriting is undoubtedly MacSwiney’s. The writing is rapid and not always easy to make out, but it can be followed with patience.
MacSwiney was a joint founder of the Irish Volunteers in Cork, and became a full-time organiser in 1915. The notebook begins with a page headed ‘Report week ending Oct. 2nd 1915’, endorsed ‘My own notes - not the official report’.
Presumably these personal notes provided the basis for his official reports to the Volunteer executive.
The diary begins on Sunday Sept. 26 [1915]. ‘By arrangement a few of us cycled to Crookstown and Bealnablath to meet
men of district. I had got a letter from J. Murphy of Lissarda [to] tell us of a gathering at Bealnablath, suggesting some
of us should go out to give friendly advice on the quiet in preparation for larger meeting later on. I got Jennings, Barrett,
Collery & Neilson I think is his name, a northern - to come along .. We [had] an informal chat with some of the local
men, who all seemed interested .. they will let us know how things progress. We may hold a rally there on 24th - date
not fixed yet ..
On Monday Sep. 27, ‘I stayed over for battalion branch meeting. We made some arrangements for future work. T.macC.
[Tomas MacCurtain] is putting on some pressure all round - as things were getting slack & it may make for good results
..
On Tuesday 28th, ‘I cycled to Ballinadee en route to Dunmanway. I called to Stokes’, Tom away. I spoke to Wm. They
are going on well. I hope for good things in this quarter. I spoke to Wm. of the Coy. coming up to Bealnablath for a big
concentration & he was eager about it. If this comes off it will be a great event.’
On Saturday Oct. 2, ‘I went to see Tomas Mac C[urtain] - had a considerable talk about many things - my projected
withdrawal from Cork to another county. He was writing to B.H. [Hobson?] very strongly about matter to press my
staying here for the present. I explained to him the need for organising other places - while agreeing with him that it
was too soon to withdraw me from Cork .. I spent a great part of the evening putting my own papers in order in view
of any possible trouble. For I’ve had a renewal of police intrusion .. There was a policeman at crossroads when I was
on way off to B’geary. I had a couple of them on the road at Ballingeary when I arrived. The morning - Friday - when
I was preparing to leave a policeman came in with a cock-and-bull story about a lost coat! - after me, of course. Well,
I’ll put my house in order ..’.
The diary continues with daily entries through October, November and December, detailing journeys, discussions,
meetings, parades, police encounters and other developments, naming many of those he met and outlining their views,
giving a superbly detailed account of the progress of the Volunteers through Cork city and county in the crucial period
when they were in direct competition with British Army and Redmondite recruiting for the allegiance of the people.
See also entry for December 3rd where he describes a conversation with the old Fenian John Daly, Tom Clarke’s former
prison colleague, and also Sean MacDiarmada. As a manuscript, w.a.f.
Terence MacSwiney [1879-1920] was one of a small group of Cork nationalists who formed a Celtic Literary Society
in 1899. He did not approve of secret societies and refused to join the IRB, but in December 1913 he joined the Irish
Volunteers. After the outbreak of the European war he set up his own weekly paper to oppose British Army recruitment and to promote the Volunteers, selling his library of books to finance it. In 1915 he became a full-time Volunteer
organiser in the Munster area.
In 1916 the confusion over MacNeill’s countermanding order frustrated MacSwiney’s plans for a rising in Cork. He was
elected to the First Dail and was several times imprisoned. He was one of the most active collectors for the Dail Loan
in Munster, working closely with his fellow Corkman Michael Collins. He became Lord Mayor of Cork in March 1920,
succeeding the murdered Thomas MacCurtain. In August he was arrested in City Hall, and went on hunger strike when
convicted of having a secret document and sentenced to two years imprisonment. ‘I will set a term to any sentence you
may impose’, he told the judge. His death after 74 days without food attracted huge international publicity. ‘The shame
of Easter Week is wiped out at last’, he is said to have told a colleague shortly before his death.
Exceedingly important manuscript diary. It is hard to imagine a more useful document for anyone studying the growth
of the Volunteer movement in Cork and the South of Ireland.
€6000 - 8000
146
KATHLEEN NAPOLI McKENNA
Kathleen McKenna was a member of an old Nationalist family, from Oldcastle, Co. Meath. She was an expert typist, and
an intelligent girl with a telling turn of phrase. Her father William McKenna was an old friend of Arthur Griffith, and
through this connection she was employed as confidential typist for the Irish Bulletin, the daily summary of information
edited for the First Dail by Frank Gallagher for distribution to journalists in Dublin and abroad, 1919-21. The foreign press
soon found they could rely on the Bulletin’s accuracy, and it became an important publicity weapon for the First Dail and its
cabinet - so much so that the British thought it worth their while both to counterfeit it, and to imitate it, with little success
on either count.
In the autumn of 1921, McKenna was one of the ‘Dail girls’ who went to London for the Treaty negotiations, where she was
Arthur Griffith’s personal secretary. As the Free State was established, she was a typist and confidential secretary for senior
ministers including Michael Collins, Desmond FitzGerald, Kevin O’Higgins and W.T. Cosgrave. She was a private secretary
at the Boundary Commission in 1924, and accompanied the Irish delegation at the Imperial Conference in 1926. Many of
the significant documents of the Irish history of this period passed through her hands and her typewriter.
She left the Civil Service in 1931, married an Italian military man, General Napoli, and went to live with him in Libya, Rome
and elsewhere. She remained in touch with her family in Ireland, but never returned to live here permanently. She left a
memoir of her days which has not yet been published. She is not to be found in the principal works of reference, though she
was perhaps as significant a person as some of those included.
The following items are from her personal collection, inherited by direct descent.
591 IRISH TREATY DELEGATION 1921
A handwritten menu for a meal in London attended by many of the Irish
delegates and advisors to the Treaty talks, 10 November 1921, signed at rear
by Micheál Ó Coileáin [Collins], Art Ó Gríofa [Griffith) and E.S. Ó Dúgáin
[Duggan] (delegates), Lionel Smith-Gordon, J.L. Fawsitt and Eamonn Broy
(advisors), Collins’ ‘minders’ Liam Tobin, Joe Dolan and Joe Guilfoyle;
Fionán Ó Loingsigh [Lynch], assistant secretary; Alice Lyons (typist);
Caoimhghin O hUiginn [Kevin O’Higgins], Sean Milroy, and several others
whose function is not clear.
The menu included a choice of soups: Peace (thick) or Publicity (clear); the
fish course was ‘Hans Plaice’ or ‘Caddugan Steaks’ [the Irish delegates were
staying at Hans Place and Cadogan Gardens]; entrees included ‘Economic
Cutlets (Reparation Gravy)’ and ‘Minced Ulster (North East Sauce)’; the
Joint was Roast Beef of Old England, with Aide Memoire of Potatoes; and
so on.
The talks in London opened on 11 October; presumably the dinner marked
the end of the first month. It seems the delegates had not yet realised that
‘minced Ulster’ was off the menu.
Kathleen McKenna’s copy [personal secretary to Arthur Griffith], with her
initials to front. A rare and delightful item.
Provenance: Collection of Kathleen Napoli McKenna, by descent.
€1500 - 2500
147
592
IRISH TREATY DELEGATION 1921
A menu for a lunch at an Oxford Street restaurant in London, 19 November 1921, with signatures to rear including Treaty delegates Art O Griofa [Griffith] and Eadhmonn O Dugain
[Duggan], T.A. Smiddy (economic advisor), Kathleen McKenna and others, tearing at fold;
a dinner menu, 6 November, with a few signatures to rear; a Souvenir Programme for a
Reception to the Irish Republican Delegation by the Irish-Ireland Societies in London, 26
October 1921, signed at rear by some of the female secretaries to the delegation including Lilí
ní Bhraonáin [Lily Brennan] and the two Lyons sisters; and a railway menu signed by four of
the female secretaries.[4]
€200 - 300
593
JOHN DEVOY IN DUBLIN 1924
An inscribed menu for a dinner to honour the veteran Fenian leader John Devoy at the
Metropole Restaurant in Dublin, 18.8.24, with many signatures front and back including John
Devoy / Sean O’Dubhaigh himself, L.T. Mac Cosgair [W.T. Cosgrave], Hugh MacNeill, Aodh
Ua Cinnéidigh [Hugh Kennedy], Frank Cremins, J.J. [Ginger] O’Connell, Eoin Ó Dubhthaigh
[O’Duffy], Felix Cronin, Diarmuid O hÉigeartaigh, Seán Mac Eoin, M. Brennan, Risteard
Ua Maolcatha [Mulcahy], Cathaoir Mac Dáibhid [Davitt, son of Michael], MacSuibhne
MaghSeanaGhlass [Marquis MacSwiney of Mashonaglass], a German Count and Countess,
Kathleen McKenna, Brigid Ni Liathain [Lyons] and many others, evidently a most convivial
evening. Some of the names with faint pencilled notes in Kathleen McKenna’s hand.
Devoy’s visit of 1924 was an occasion of some significance, implying his endorsement of the
Treaty and the Free State as a necessary step towards full freedom. Evidently there was a full
muster of Free State notables.
€600 - 800
594
THE IRISH BULLETIN 1919: “The very first of the Bulletin”
Issues 1 and 2 of this important cyclostyled news-sheet, 11 and 13 November 1919, compiled
by Frank Gallagher under the direction of Robert Brennan, then Director of Publicity for Sinn
Fein [see Gallagher, ‘Literature of the Conflict’ in Irish Book Lover May-June 1930]. Kathleen
McKenna’s pencilled note indicates it was ‘The very first of the Bulletin, Original, typed and
rolled-off in 6 Harcourt St. by me in the presence of P.G. Desmond & Bob Brennan ‘, making
approx. 50 copies of the first few issues. These copies are from her personal collection, with
her pencilled annotations. Also with and a cyclostyled illustration by Frank Gallager headed
‘Makers of the Republic’, humorously featuring a ‘Dail Girl’ and ‘the Mere President’ (2 copies),
apparently part of the last ever Bulletin.
The Irish Bulletin was a significant innovation in its day. It was established to convey reliable
information about Irish affairs to the foreign press and to journalists working in Dublin, with
a view to breaking through Dublin Castle’s monopoly on publicity and propaganda. Under
Frank Gallagher’s editorship, great care was taken to include only reliable information that had
been fully checked and was not exaggerated or sensationalised. Given the conduct of Crown
forces around this time, there was no need for exaggeration, and journalists soon learned
that they could trust what was said in the Bulletin. It became an important part of the Dail
ministry’s publicity operations, and the British Government made repeated efforts to suppress
it, which were never successful for long. At one time they even printed a counterfeit version,
which was soon exposed.
Early issues are very scarce.
€500 - 600
148
595
KEVIN BARRY [1902-1920]
An original copy of the familiar photograph showing Barry in a sports jersey, oval,
circa 5 ½ x 3 ¾ ins [140 x 95 mm], sepia, mounted on card, by Keogh Bros. of Dublin
with their reservation of copyright, inscribed rear in Kathleen McKenna’s hand.
One of the most common photographs of the period, but rare in Keogh’s original
print. Barry, an 18-year-old medical student and IRA Volunteer, was arrested after
an ambush in which a young British soldier died. He was sentenced to hang, the first
Volunteer to die by execution since 1916, and was ill-treated before his death. His
execution on All Saints’ Day came the day after Terence MacSwiney’s funeral, and
the two tragedies had a huge effect on public opinion both in Ireland and around
the world.
€500 - 600
596
KATHLEEN McKENNA
A collection of papers and credentials including an admission ticket to Dail Eireann
for sitting of 16 Lughnasa [August] 1921; a Dail Eireann annual pass, 1925; a similar
pass, 1927; a Free Travel card for Veterans of the War of Independence, 1972, signed
by McKenna with addresses in Rome and Dublin, with a used Irish travel ticket
issued 1981; and some sheets of blotting paper used by Kevin O’Higgins on the day
before his assassination, faintly inscribed in pencil by McKenna. As a collection.
€100 - 200
597
PRISON PHOTOGRAPHS
A selection of interesting photos and prints of Republican interest, including
-
an original photograph showing Thomas Whelan in a prison yard with
a soldier and a warder, walking towards his execution, March 1921, with enlarged
reprints of this and other photos showing Whelan and his companion Patrick Moran
before their execution;
-
an original photograph showing Edward Foley and Patrick Maher shaking
hands with their jailors, before their execution on charges arising from the rescue of
Sean Hogan at Knocklong, with a related press cutting and reproductions of other
photos showing the two men;
-
A sheet containing short strips of newsreel photographs including ‘Irish
Peace Congress’ [i.e. the Treaty talks 1921], Centenary of Catholic Emancipation
[1929], etc., and a few other items.
The first two items may have come from the Sinn Fein publicity office.
€300 - 500
149
598
THE WEEKLY SUMMARY 1921
A selection of copies of this British-inspired printed digest of Irish reports, issues of 1
April, 15 April, 22 April and 13 May 1921, each 4 pp, multiple copies of some of these.
No publisher identified, but evidently issued by the British authorities, probably to compete with the Irish Bulletin, these copies possibly from the Bulletin office.
As a collection, scarce.
€100 - 200
599
TREATY DELEGATION AND ASSISTANTS 1921
A collection of original photographs, London 1921, various sizes, one showing Arthur
Griffith with Kathleen McKenna (on right) and the Lyons sisters on board ship; another
(damaged) showing members of the Irish Treaty delegation and assistants in an elegant
interior, Kathleen McKenna seated in front row on right wearing a white shirt; and a
selection of others showing Kathleen and the Lyons sisters in London, McKenna wearing
a pleated dress with embroidered device and a coat with fur cuffs; and a few press cuttings
reproducing some of the photographs with names.
As a collection.
€200 - 300
600
KATHLEEN McKENNA
A selection of memorabilia including a copy of Tom Clarke’s Glimpses of an Irish Felon’s
Prison Life, first edition (1922), inscribed in Irish to McKenna, 1949; the memorial volume
for Arthur Griffith and Michael Collins 1922 (cover worn); two issues of An tOglach (one
incomplete) including No. 1 Vol. 1; a copy of the lithographed Sean O’Sullivan portrait of
De Valera 1939, signed in plate and with De Valera’s original signature dated 22.8.57, also
a damaged photograph of De Valera circa 1918; and a file of press cuttings including items
about Michael Collins, Louise Gavan Duffy, the actor Fred Johnson and his mother, the
shooting of Kevin O’Higgins, ‘an unknown heroine who worked for Michael Collins’ (Lily
Mernin), the funeral of Michael Collins, etc., some with annotations by McKenna.
As a collection.
€200 - 300
150
601
The Uncrowned King and his Tailor
Parnell (Charles Stewart) Four A.L.s. from Charles Stewart Parnell, dated between January and November 1883, to his tailor,
Phillips and Healy, Dame Street, Dublin, one on House of Commons headed notepaper, and the other from Palace Chambers, 9
Bridge St., London, all with orig. envelopes, and each with black borders, and postally used, H. & K. Packet c.d.s. They contain
mostly requests for samples, ordering and arranging times for fitting. One letter contains two cloth samples one for a suit and
the other for a trousers. They display an unusual side of Parnell, in that he attended in such detail to his personal appearance
at this time, and had preference for the Dublin rather than the London tailors.
The black trimmed notepaper and envelopes was in respect and sympathy for Lord Frederick Cavendish, whose wife was a
niece of Prime Minister Gladstone, and Thomas Henry Burke who were murdered in the Phoenix Park by The Invincibles, the
previous year. As a m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
€350 - 500
602
Exceptional Irish Autograph Album
A good quality leather bound Autograph Album, sm. 4to, containing some excellent watercolour and other drawings, a wide
variety of distinguished signatures, some Republican, some ecclesiastical and others, and including a finely coloured watercolour initial in the style of the Book of Kells signed G. Burke, Gormanstown Cap 1923; signatures of Michael Cardinal Logue;
Francis Cardinal Browne, Archbishop of Westminster, with an inscribed photograph date 1918; Joseph Mac Rory, Bishop of
Down & Connor; John Dillon, May 1920; Roibeard Bartún [Barton] 18.8.21; Padraig O’Domhnaill, Easbog Rathbloth [Bishop
of Raphoe]; an attractive caricature portrait of an Eastern boy, title ‘Harem’s ain’t everything!’ by J. Mc Cauley of Derry
City, Gormanstown Camp; Bishop Michael Fogarty [of Killaloe], with message ‘May St. Michael guard our people,’ ; Liam
O’Maoiliosa [Mellows], 30.9.21, with a small Photograph, a rare signature; an old Irish verse with signature of the scholar
George Sigerson, 10 Dec. 1918; G.N. Noble Count Plunkett [father of Joseph Mary Plunkett] August 15th, 1921; Sean Ua
Ceallaigh [probably Sean T.] 18.8.1921, on a loose slip evidently cut for some reason from this page; Sean Etchingham, 18.8.21;
a Latin quotation with signature of J.B.M. Herzog, Capetown, 4 April 1921, possibly a relation of Isaac Herzog later Chief Rabbi
in Dublin; an attractive portrait of a ‘flapper’ 1920’s style, with a witty verse, by J. Mc Cauley, Gormanstown 1923; signatures of
Eamon de Valera, 18.8.21; Brain O’hUiginn 18.8.21; Michael O’Coileain [Collins], 19.8.21; a well drawn caricature of an ‘Auxi’
by Frank Murphy, Gormanstown 1923; and a few others. Laid in at front is a photographic postcard of Kevin Barry. In excellent
condition apart from the loose O’Ceallaigh signature, one of the most varied and interesting autograph books of the period that
we have seen. The compiler, who is not identified, must have been very well connected. As a m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
€700 - 900
603
“The Days of Freedom and Action have Begun”
Ward (William), Earl of Dudley, Lord Lieutenant. A very good collection of eleven original letters and notes - ten autographed
signed letters and notes and one T.L.s., with a typed copy of another letter, all to T.P. Gill, Secretary of the Irish Dept. of
Agriculture and Technical Instruction, mostly 1904 - 07, with one from 1920, some from the Earl’s seat at Crom Castle,
Newtownbutler, Co. Fermanagh, others from the Vice-Regal Lodge and other addresses; with typed copies of two of Gill’s
replies.
An interesting correspondence, touching on many subjects, including Irish Land Policy, redistribution of Parliamentary seats,
whether Irish industries were crushed by English policies, and the Congested Commission which he headed. Ward’s letter
of 14 Dec. 1905, is a farewell on his leaving office, after a disagreement about proposals for devolution of powers. ‘The days
of humiliation, of rebuff, of weary waiting and bitter disappointment are over - and the days of freedom and of action have
begun... . Did you ever reach such absolute ‘rot’ as Long’s speech at Bristol... . It is very easy to talk about the ‘rights’ and ‘privileges’ of minorities in Ireland - but it never seems to strike these people that the majority in Ireland also has rights, which are
always consistently denied by men of the Long type.’ In March 1907 writing from London, he expresses concerns about the
progress of the Irish Bill. ‘Birrell seems to view things in the right light and is full of courage and enthusiasm, but the influence of Asquith, Haldane and Tweedmouth & Co. appears to be very strong in the Cabinet and as far as I can judge from what
various people have told me, there is great fear in the Cabinet of making the Bill in any sense a Home Rule Bill... . the general
spirit at present appears to be one of fear and distrust, and unless a new spirit enters into them before it makes its appearance,
I very much doubt whether it will be one which the Nationalist would be willing to accept.’
* William Ward, second Earl of Dudley was Lord Lieutenant of Ireland 1902 - 05 and later Governor General of Australia. T.P.
Gill an Irish Party M.P. was an active and influential civil servant, and head of the Irish Dept. of Agriculture 1900 - 1923. As
a coll. of m/ss letters, w.a.f. (1)
€800 - 1200
151
604
I.R.A. Western Divisions, 1922 - 23
“The Spies are continually keeping the enemy informed of our movements”
Important Military Archive containing many hundreds of documents in two - two ring binders. The first covering the First Western Division, the other binder, the Second and
Third (possibly with some overlap).
These are mainly documents concerning detailed operations, reports of fighting and other activities by the Western Divisions, attacks on the enemy etc., with replies and queries
from the Chief of Staff in Dublin. From July 1922 there are regular reports of significant reverses, enemy sweeps, in overwhelming force, a capture of a column, arrest of officers,
orders for a full investigation etc. On 26 July O/C 1st Western Reports ‘Our columns are experiencing considerable difficultly owing to the hostile attitudes of great numbers
of the Civil population. Spies are continually keeping the enemy informed of our movements.’ On 30th July, a report that Asst. Comdr. E. Corbett has been captured near
Craughwell, detailed reports of engagements near Athenry; sweeps by the enemy; heavy loss of senior officers (10 Aug. 1922); Activities of Galway and Clare units, September,
also November (by then mainly limited to mail raids), reorganisation etc.
On 5.2.23 O/C 1st Western Div. writes to C/S opposing the burning of houses as reprisals. ‘The people who supported and kept us during the Anglo-Irish War at such terrible
risks, and those who support and keep us now, will all be left homeless, not a just recompense for all they have endured.’ On 19th Feb. O/C 1st Western gives his men’s response
to the Liam Deasy document (advising Republicans to surrender.) ‘The publication of these documents coupled with the action of the Limerick & Clonmel prisoners had produced a very demoralizing effect on all ranks.. . As a result of what appeared in Saturday’s I.T. from de Valera re Document No. 2 and from Miss Mc Swiney I feel a bit at sea
regarding what the Government stands for ... You know that it is not for Document No. 2 or compromise between political parties that men are in the field. If the Republic is to
be compromised in any way I will immediately surrender unconditionally and order all ranks in the area to do likewise.’ The Chief of Staff reply is not present, but on 1 March
Frank Barrett reports, ‘The ill effects produced by the publication of the Deasy Documents ... have now been almost completely combated.. . The publication of the President’s
interview (concerning Document No. 2), together with Miss Mc Swiney’s letter was doing our cause more harm than any of the other events. however it is, the people have
a frightful contempt for Document No. 2.....’
By this time the War was all but lost, and a cease fire was ordered in May after the Death of Liam Lynch. On 29 June 1923, Sean Casey, Divnl. Adjutant, 1st Western Div., reports
in relation to the ‘Cease fire - Dump Arms Order,’ ‘All Arms have been securely dumped ... No arms have been captured in this area by enemy since above Order came into
force... . The discipline of the men is indeed very good.... . Several of the men have gone back to their own areas and are now engaged in work of re-organisation of their respective units.... . The morale of the Civil population is good and we certainly have the support and active sympathy of 70% of the Civil Population....’ (a figure which C/S describes
on August 3rd as ‘certainly surprising’). A staff report on 20 July 1923 gives numbers of the various brigades, likely recruits, numbers in jail, executed or killed, etc., with details
of next of kin and their circumstances. On 17.8.23 a report to the C/S outlines the President’s visit to Clare. An interesting letter from Joe Barrett, O/C 1st Western Division to
C/S dated 22 Sept. 1923 mentions a failed attempt to meet him in Dublin, a long conversation with ‘people on the other side (the Actg. P. knows whom I mean) re the situation
generally.’ ‘There were a few matters which I had intended to discuss with you if we had met, and which I could not very well put on paper.’
On 21 Sept. ‘23 O/C reports that 15 CID men from Oriel House are stationed in Ballinasloe, raiding houses and searching people. ‘On the night of 1st / 2nd September a party
of 6 or 7 CID men visited Mrs. Keogh’s house (mother of Vol. Keogh).... They smashed every article of furniture in the house ... the following night ... the CID men arrived again
about 12 midnight.... . They broke the door, smashed the beds, tore all the bed clothes and destroyed all the girls clothing. They broke a donkey’s cart and trap, kicked the eyes
out of a pig and killed all the fowl. One duck was hung outside the house with a label attached stating that Jack Keogh would receive similar treatment when captures.....’
On 30.12.24, a letter to Frank Barrett (formerly O/C, 1st Western Div.) informs him of a court martial decision to dismiss him forthwith from the Army, because he signed a
document promising to keep the peace in order to secure release from custody, and rejected an order that
he should repudiate his signature.
In March 1925 an inspection report states that ‘with the exception of 2 Brigades the Organisation in the Division is very poor, and the number of officers having a proper military
outlook is very small.’ In May 1925 a statement on ‘Reorganisation of Clare,’ reports that the situation in Mid-Clare is very difficult. ‘In and around Ennis the vast majority of
the Officers were dissatisfied with the decision regarding Frank B., and that it would be next to impossible to secure new officers who would be outside the ‘Barrett influence.’
The second file covers broadly similar ground with regard to the 2nd and 3rd Western Division, mostly 1923 - 25 with a few earlier documents.
Overall these two files are almost entirely concerned with the fighting on the ground, and the views of Volunteers and Civilians in the Western Area; as such they provide an
invaluable counterpart to the Chief-of-Staff and Finance files which mainly give the view from Republican head office in Dublin.
* Material of the first importance.
€4000 - 6000
Frank Barrett
152
605
Clann-na-Gael and the I.R.A: Secret Files
An important collection of upwards of 150 messages exchanged between the IRA Army Council and the Clan-na-Gael Organisation in the United States (the American equivalent
of the I.R.B., and the chief source of financial support for the I.R.A.’s activities in Ireland).
The messages cover a period of circa 2 1/2 years, between February 1929 and July 1931 - the crucial period before and immediately after Fianna Fail’s entry into Government in
Ireland, and also the time of the Wall Street crash and depression in the United States, which naturally hampered efforts there.
There are three interlinked strands:
a. Official messages from the Executive of Clan-na-Gael and the IRA Army Council, generally formal in tone;
b. Messages exchanged between the IRA in Ireland its representatives, of ‘Timthire,’ in the United States, whose main function was to keep in touch with Clan-na-Gael and to ensure
smooth relations so far as possible.
These are more frequent than the formal messages - sometimes as many as three or four a week - and they are much more informative and less formal in tone. The ‘Timthire’ was
also the main channel for transmission of funds, to Ireland, and these are meticulously receipted as received, thus allowing for the first time a reasonably accurate estimate of the
IRA’s receipts from the United States;
c. Occasional ‘personal’ messages between Dublin and New York, generally to explain or stress some ticklish subject which was causing problems or misunderstandings.
There are also some letters from or concerning people moving to the United States or returning to Ireland, or who might be of use in the movement in either country. Many of
the messages contain passages in a cipher or code, probably when dealing with military matters (eg. arms purchases) or when discussing individuals. Some of these have helpful
annotations in margin (eg. Despatch No. 77 from ‘An Timthire’ in New York, dated 4 Dec. 1929); there is also at least one message (from ‘An Timthire’, Despatch No. 13, 12 June
1931) with an accompanying slip on which two coded segments have apparently been entirely decoded; presumably this could make it possible for a skilled person to decode the
entire cipher.
All despatches and most enclosures are meticulously dated; and most are numbered (the numbering apparently restoring at the beginning of each year). There are references from
time to time to missing despatches, but missing material is usually repeated.
This is material of the first importance for any historian of the I.R.A. it is plain that the IRA was almost entirely dependent on large and regular supplies of cash from the United
States - a note of desperation enters the correspondence in late 1929 / early 1930 when the flow of cash was interrupted - and so it was necessary for Dublin to keep in close touch
with its ‘Timthire’ in New York, explaining in detail any developments or any policy changes which might lead to difficulties with the Clan. Similarly the ‘Timthire’s’ messages
give very detailed news of opinion in the States.
Apart from regular information about political / or military developments, the following matters are particular interest.
A. ‘Comhairle na Poblachta’ and its envoy to the United States. ‘Comhairle’ was set up by the IRA as an open political organisation in the late 20’s, mainly with a view to involving
former Republicans in the United States who had fallen out with the movement. Evidently the idea was viewed with suspicion by the Clan, which was nervous about anything smelling of ‘politics.’ There were inconclusive discussions before an Envoy was sent, and apparently the Clan did not clearly state its opposition, but when the Envoy arrived, he found
himself to be persona non grata, and had to be withdrawn, with great embarrassment; see letters dated 1 August 1929, 16 Sept. 1929, 1 Nov. 1929, 21 Nov. 1929, 5.12.29 & 27.1.30
(explaining Army relations with the ‘2nd Dail.’). See also letter from Dublin dated 12.11.29; ‘It may sound as heresay, but we are of opinion that in the present conditions here, speakers, or if you like ‘spouters’ are as necessary as soldiers.’
B. Finance. This theme runs right through the correspondence, but see especially letters dated 16 Oct. ‘29; 7 Nov. ‘29; 8 Dec. ‘29; 27.1.30, summary (undated) after letter dated 9 July
‘30; 28.5.31.
C. Irish Hospitals Sweepstake. See letter dated 2 Jan. 1931 for an intriguing suggestion that the IRA and Clan-na-Gael could combine to market Sweeps Tickets on a large scale in
U.S.A.
D. Interesting Messages: One re ‘Irwin’ dated 29 Jan. 1930. ‘ This is very bad ... . does it mean everything is off; and that nothing further is to be sent?’ There are other cryptic references to ‘I’ from which it may be inferred that the matter relates to an arms purchase, which may have been of the wrong calibre.
There are very many other interesting references, including regular discussion of Anglo-American relations (which the IRA wished to sabotage), visit to USA by Irish Minister,
Desmond Fitzgerald, suggested visit by Karl Spindle (of the ‘Aud’), etc. etc. In addition there is also some American material in the Army Council / Chief of Staff file.
While we have done our best to sort and separate these files in the time available, we give here just a flavour of the contents. In our opinion this collection is of the utmost historical
importance covering as it does a period and events not found readily in any institution. As an Archive, w.a.f.
€4000 - 6000
153
606
“The Republic Still Lives”
Sean T. O’Kelly’s 1918 Proclamation
Broadside - Poblacht na h-Eireann - The Provisional
Government of the Irish Republic to The People of Ireland.
‘Irishmen and Irish Women .... ‘ An early reprint of the 1916
Proclamation (probably the third printing) reset in similar
style to the original, with an extra line in capitals at end after
the signatures: ‘The Irish Republic Still Lives.’ There is no
printer or date mentioned, approx. 76cms x 51cms (30” x 20”),
some small tears, with some loss of text, fold marks and some
fraying at edges now laid on card & framed.
The first edition of the Proclamation was printed in Liberty
Hall on the Sunday before the Eater Rising in 1916, in an
edition of about 1000 copies, of which about 50 at most have
survived. On the anniversary of the Rising, at Easter 1917, an
almost exact type facsimile was printed and distributed in
Dublin, which can be distinguished from the original mainly
by the mis-spelling of Eamonn Ceannt’s name. The second
edition is known only from one or two surviving copies. The
present document is neither the 1916 or the 1917 edition. A
similar copy is described by Bouch, who concludes that it
probably was printed around the time of an election, probably the General Election of December 1918 (at which Sinn
Fein swept the country). This seems a reasonable conclusion,
since if issued later than January 1919 one would expect the
final line to include some reference to the Firs (or Second) Dail
then siting. it is in any case an excessively rare document. A
part from the copy examined by Bouch, we are aware of only
one other copy of this printing, sold in Dublin some ten years
ago and now believe to be in America. to our knowledge it is
the last full size edition of Proclamation published during the
1916 - 1921 period.
Literature: Bouch - “Bibliographical Society of Ireland,” Vol.
5, No. 2, page 51.
Provenance: From the family of Sean T. O’Kelly to the present
owner.
* Sean T. O’Kelly, Sinn Fein and Fianna Fail was born in
Dublin, in 1882. In 1898 he joined the Gaelic League and
became manager of An Claidheamh Soluis, and general secretary in 1915. He was a founder member of Sinn Fein and of The
Irish Volunteers and was a staff captain in the G.P.O. during
the Rebellion in 1916. He was Ceann Comhairle in the First
Dail. He became the second President of the Irish Republic
and died in 1966.
€5000 - 7000
154
607
The Emergency 1939-1945
This Year, 2011, marks the Seventieth Anniversary of the Blitzes of Belfast and Dublin during the Spring of 1941.
A very interesting Collection of material, clothing, head-wear and other items from this period, and also including a “Beresford - Stork Light Trailer Pump
(with Austin 8hp engine).
These trailer pumps (so called because they could be pulled, or ‘trailed’, behind a small car or van), were extremely versatile. They could be manoeuvred into
position amidst the rubble of bombed cities, and could be brought right up to the bank of a river or some other open source of water where a conventional
fire engine might not be able to go. The light trailer pump had a pumping capacity (i.e. could deliver) of some 180 gallons per minute. They were to prove
their worth over and over again during the Blitz on Britain.
The Irish Government instituted the Auxiliary Fire Service (An Fo-Roinn Muchta Toiteain) under the Civil Defence Art, 1939. The Auxiliary Fire Service
(AFS) was under the control of the Air Raid Precautions (ARP) section of the Department of Defence, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin and the Chief Fire Officer
of the local authority.
Trailer Pumps were in action during the bombing of the North Strand area in Dublin on 31st May, 1941, and during the Blitzes on Belfast (15th April and
5th May 1941) when units of the Fire Service (including the AFS) from Dublin, Dun Laoghaire, Dundalk and Drogheda sped north to the assistance of their
overwhelmed northern countrymen in flagrant breach of our stated policy of neutrality.
These were the only occasions during World War Two when uniformed personnel of the Irish State saw active service in a belligerent country, as, of course,
Northern Ireland was as part of the United Kingdom. The Taoiseach’s (Eamon de Valera) greatest concern was that one of the Irish fire-fighters would be
killed in Belfast: such a happening could have provoked a vitriolic response from Nazi Germany and brought us into the war. One fireman, indeed, was
very seriously burned and was spirited back to Dublin without any publicity. And one respected researcher claims that he has unearthed evidence in the
Bundesarchiv in Koblenz, Germany, that the bombing of Dublin was in direct retaliation for the Irish fire services going north.
The other equipment included in this lot consists of,
•Dublin Fire Brigade Helmet and Tunic, 1940
•Cork Fire Brigade Helmet and Tunic, 1940
•Auxiliary Fire Service Helmet and Tunic, 1941
•A lot of Gas Masks
•Garda Motor-cyclists Helmet
•R.U.C. Riot Squad Helmet
•ARP Badge
•ARP Lot, including: 1. Bicycle Lamp / 2. Red Cross Bag /
3. Warden’s Book / 4. Drinking Mug
•Two ARP Items: 1. Stirrup Pump / 2. Armband
•Two ARP steel Helmets, 1. Rescue / 2. Wardens
•A.F.S. Rank Markings
•A Portfolio of ARP Posters 1939-1945
‘ The trailer in this lot, complete with six lengths of delivery hose, two lengths of suction hose, and ancillary gear ‘.
A unique collection, all now very scarce. As a lot, w.a.f.
N.B.
The Trailer-Pump to be collected and removed at the purchasers risk and expense.
€800 - 1200
155
609
“Proud to Die for Ireland”
Thomas Whelan & Patrick Moran, executed 1921
A copy of the Manual of Catholic Piety, Duffy, Dublin, n.d., the leather
cover stamped ‘Official Copy,’ stamped on f.e.p. ‘Prisoners’ Library,
Mountjoy Prison,’ inscribed in ink on f.e.p. ‘Thomas Whelan / March
13th 1921 / Sentenced to Death / Mountjoy Prison / Dublin.’
A most poignant item. Thomas Whelan, from Co. Galway, and Patrick
Moran, from Co. Roscommon, were both members of the Irish
Volunteers. Patrick Moran fought in the Jacob’s Factory garrison during the Easter Rising and was imprisoned; later he became a Captain in
the Dublin Brigade. Both men were arrested after ‘Bloody Sunday,’ 21
November 1920, when fourteen British intelligence officers were shot
dead by members of Michael Collins’ squad.’ Whelan and Moran were
separately charged with the murder of British officers in the course of
this operation. Both were convicted and sentenced to death, although
there was credible evidence that both were at Mass, miles away, at the
time of the attacks. Patrick Moran was so convinced that his innocence
would be recognised, that he declined an opportunity to escape from
Mountjoy with another prisoner (who got away successfully).
The Manual is inscribed the two condemned men for the prison
chaplain, Canon John Waters, who would have heard their confessions
and administered Mass before the executions. Canon Waters was not
known for his sympathy for Republicans, but presumably he was sufficiently impressed by their character and demeanor to ask for their
signatures.
Patrick Moran, Patrick Whelan and their comrade Kevin Barry were
among ten Republican prisoners hanged at Mountjoy in 1920 - 21,
whose bodies were reinterred in Glasnevin Cemetery after a full State
funeral in 2001.
Provenance: Bailey family of Dublin, a gift from Canon John Waters,
chaplain at Mountjoy Prison. (1)
€2000 - 3000
608
The Enniscorthy Rebels
An Illustrated Album
O’Neill (Maolmhuire) Compiler. A very interesting Album compiled by
Maolmhire O’Neill [Myles O’Neill] of An tSraid Eireannach, Inis Corthaigh
[Irish Street, Enniscorthy], prisoner at Stafford and Frongoch, containing
several fine poster-like ink and watercolour portraits by O’Neill of Sean Mac
Diarmada, J.J. Heuston, Arthur Griffith, P.H. Pearse, J. Connolly, De Valera,
Tom Clarke, R. Casement, Jos. Mary Plunkett, O’Donovan Rossa, and other
Republican heroes, a double page view of his cell at Stafford Prison May-June
1916, various fine patriotic watercolour drawings, a poem (possibly original)
entitled The Romance of Grace Gifford, another titled To the Memory of
The O’Rahilly, manuscript copies of the 1916 Proclamation and other texts,
and signatures and messages fro some of his co-prisoners including Sean
Etchingham, Donal O’Connor, M.J. Shiel, Sean O’Neill, A. O’Brien, Thomas F.
Meagher, Bernard Murray, W. Gallagher, Aiden Allan, R.F. King & others from
Enniscorthy. In all about 39 full page portraits and drawings including the
arms of Enniscorthy, and other illus., in a small quarto leather bound Album,
binding shaken and partly broken, spine repaired with adhesive tape needs
rebinding. An unique record. As a m/ss., w.a.f. (1)
€500 - 700
156
610
Kilworth (Co. Cork) Republican Courts
Republican Courts: A small 4to notebook containing 13 manuscript
pages of notes and reports, concerning the proceedings of Kilworth
Parish court, Sept. - Dec. 1921, with details of more than 36 cases,
minor assaults, non-payment of bills, slanderous and threatening
language, etc., with names of plaintiffs and defendants and usually an
indication of judgement given, also a few printed forms with manuscript details laid in (summons of defendant / witness, process for civil
claim). As a m/ss. album, w.a.f.
* A very interesting document. Original documents concerning the
operation of the Republican courts are rare. (1)
€600 - 800
611
Fine Republican Autograph Book
Collins (M.) & others: an attractive and important small Autograph
Book in embossed leather, with a fine selection of Republican Leaders,
including signatures of Harry Boland, Risteard O’hAodha, Eamon
Duggan, Michael Collins, Seamas O’Riain, T.D. (Dr. James Ryan),
Sean French, Domhnall O’Ceallachain, Piaras Beaslai, Hanna Sheehy
Skeffington, Eamon de Valera and about 8 others all circa 1921 - 22,
together with Seoirse Mac Giolla Mhuire (George Gilmore, a very rare
signature), the actor Barry Fitzgerald and some others. The Album also
contains two small contemporary photographs of the ruined Gresham
Hotel in Sackville Street after the Free State attack of 1922; and some
snap shots of a large meeting in New Ross, 1923, with speakers possibly
including Maud Gonne Mac bride, all loosely laid in. As an album,
w.a.f. V.G. (1)
€500 - 700
612
The 1916 Cork Brigade
Certificate
Co. Cork: The 1916 Rising In Cork, an original Certificate issued to
the various members of the Cork Coy during 1916 Easter Week, “This
is to Certify that [Daniel Foley] was a member of the Irish Volunteers,
D. Company, cork City Battalion... signed by (the Sole surviving Batt.
Officer) [Sean Murphy] 5 May 1948, Celtic design surmounted with the
“F.F.” emblem, flanked by printed listing of the different Companies,
cork (Lee Press) 1948, approx. 40cms x 50cms. good clean example.
Scarce. (1)
€400 - 600
157
613
Rory Breslin (b.1963)
Michael Davitt
Bronze, 41 cm high
Signed and dated ‘02, numbered 4/6
€2500 - 3500
614
Jarlath Daly (b.1956)
Decorated Veteran
Bronze, 56 cm high
Unique and signed
€1500 - 1800
615
Jarlath Daly (b.1956)
lot 613
lot 614
Seán Lemass
Bronze mounted on black granite, 48 cm high
Signed, artists copy
€2500 - 3000
616
Eamonn O’Doherty (b.1939)
James Connolly
Bronze, 64cm high
Signed and dated ‘96
Edition 2/9
€3000 - 5000
617
Jerome Conor (1874-1943)
lot 615
lot 616
Seated Soldier
Plaster, 67cm high (incl. base)
Signed and base inscribed “They Fought Bravely, Died Nobely,
Citizen of a Republic, Soldiers All”
€800 - 1000
618
Brendan Byrne
Irish Volunteer 1916
Resin, 30cm high
Signed
€300 - 500
lot 617
lot 618
158
619
GERMAN MILITARY MAPS OF IRELAND 1940
Militargeographische Angaben uber Irland. Abgeschlossen am 30. September 1940. Generalstab des
Heeres. Abteilung fur Kriegskarten und Vermessungswesen (IV. Mil.-Geo.). Berlin 1940. Nur fur den
Dienstgebrauch!
A printed green card wallet containing a series of folding military maps of the island of Ireland, showing coalfields, industries, roads, railways, ports, power lines, telephone connections etc., with detailed
street-plans of Dublin and Belfast and smaller plans of other towns, with accompanying text sections,
evidently prepared with a view to German troop landings in Ireland, whether by agreement or as an
invasion force. A most interesting document, prepared with impressive thoroughness. The wallet
somewhat worn, otherwise in excellent condition, rare.
€1500 - 2000
620
JAMES STEPHENS [1880-1950]
A superb collection of his works, many first or limited editions, many signed or inscribed copies, two
with autograph signed poems inserted, also two short ALS to Mrs. Katharine [Tynan] Hinkson, mostly
in very good to fine condition, including
- a set of four slim volumes finely presented in folding sleeves and leather backed slipcases, viz.
Insurrections [1909, first edition of his first book]; Hunger [1918, as James Esse, signed as Esse]; Little
Things [1924, privately printed, autograph poem inserted]; The Outcast [1929], signed;
- another set of three in cloth boxes, viz. Songs from the Clay, ALS to Mrs Hinkson on Irish Review
notepaper 1912 inserted; Reincarnations [1918, with ALS to Mrs Hinkson dated Nov. 1916 on National
Gallery of Ireland notepaper]; The Demi-Gods [1914], all publisher’s presentation copies, first editions
in d.w., fine;
- Julia Elizabeth, 1909, Crosby Gaige, lim. ed., signed;
- The Crock of Gold, 1912, first, in a morocco box; another copy in a folding sleeve;
- The Insurrection In Dublin, 1916, first, cover dull;
- Arthur Griffith, Journalist and Statesman, Dublin [1922], signed, folding sleeve;
- The Crock of Gold, 1926, first illustrated edition, d.w., signed; and another edition, Limited Editions
Club 1942, signed by illustrator, in slipcase;
- Collected Poems 1926, first, large paper, vellum spine, lim. ed., signed;
- Collected Poems 1926, first, ordinary edition, an autograph poem laid in;
- The Outcast, 1929, large paper, lim. ed., signed;
- The Optimist, 1929, Slide Mountain Press, signed, lim. ed. (out of series);
- Strict Joy, 1931, first, signed;
and about 22 other items, some first editions, some limited or signed, some reprints, a few duplicates,
mostly in good to very good condition.
James Stephens was born in Dublin about 1880. His father died when he was two, and on his mother’s
remarriage he was sent to an orphanage. He ran away, and after many troubles found work as a solicitor’s clerk in Dublin. He published his first poems in 1909, and made his name with The Crock of Gold
[1912], a story for children of all ages, creating ‘a world of rich fantasy’. He went to Paris in 1912, and
in1915 became Registrar of the National Gallery in Dublin; in 1924 he moved to London. He was a
friend of Arthur Griffith, and wrote a short pamphlet in his memory.
As a collection.
€1500 - 2500
621
With Caricature Sketches of Daniel O’Connell
Doyle (John) artist, Mc Lean (Tho.) Publisher, Political Sketches, 4 vols. lg. atlas folio London c. 1830
- 40., 4 litho titles, 4 frontis plates, & 340 litho plates mostly signed HB (John Doyle), each attractively
mounted on a full cut out brown page mount, in uniform contemporary strongly bound hf. morroco,
with mor. labels on front covers. Bookplate of Charles William Packe. As a coll. of plts., w.a.f. Scarce.
(4)
€850 - 1250
159
622
Rare First Edition of Irish
National Anthem
[Kearney (Peadar)] The Soldier’s Song, Words by Peadar
O’Cearnaigh. Music by Padraig O’hAoinaigh. Arranged by
Cathal Mac Dubhgahill. Lg. 4to Published by Whelan & Son, 17
Upper Ormond Quay, Dublin (December 1916). FIRST EDITION.
4pp. orig. decor. title with rifle within a Celtic design border. In
extremely fine condition. Excessively Rare.
Together with a copy of Seamus de Burca’s book The Soldier’s
Song, second edition, which explains the publishing history of
Ireland’s National Anthem. (2)
€1000 - 1500
623
Political and Theatrical
Autograph Album
A very good collection of signatures from both the political and theatrical worlds including Eamon De Valera, Tomas
O’Deirg, Gearoid O’Beolain, Sean McEntee, Patrick Little, Frank
Aiken, Seamus O’Riain, Maud Gonne McBride, F.J. McCormick,
Michael MacLiammoir, Shelah Richards, Maureen Delaney, May
Craig, G.A.V. Tyson (Test Pilot, with a photo), other Abbey actors
and more. Inscribed at the front ‘Pegeen Thomas 1933’. Clean
condition throughout, w.a.f.
€1000 - 2000
624
MICHAEL COLLINS &
EAMON DE VALERA
A Dail Eireann admission card for the public session of 16 August
1921, issued to Doris Stevens, autograph signature of Eamon de
Valera; and a second card for the same sitting, no name inserted,
autograph signature of Micheal O Coileain [Collins], dated
15.8.1921, both framed. As a pair.
[2]
€1000 - 1500
160
625
‘Across the Continent with
Mrs Margaret Pearse 1924’
A manuscript notebook compiled by Anna W. Smith, describing a fundraising American tour by Mrs. Margaret Pearse (mother of Padraic and
William), June-September 1924, with detailed accounts and photographs of
their meetings and conversations with American supporters of Irish independence. With a map showing their travels from Boston and New York to
Buffalo, Detroit and Chicago, across the continent to Seattle, San Francisco
and Los Angeles and back again. 150 numbered pages, with short accounts
of their various meetings and contacts, well illustrated with postcards,
invitation cards and original photographs mostly showing Mrs. Pearse with
American friends.
It appears the party also included Mrs. Ginnell. Their American contacts
included Dr. Tynan, Miss Gertrude Hynes and Mr. Hughes (Boston), Capt.
Monteith (Detroit), Capt. Mallory (Chicago), Fr. Hannan (Butte), etc. The
descriptions by Ms. Smith are agreeably acerbic. She describes various misunderstandings, cancelled meetings etc.; being driven around Detroit ‘on
one wheel’, Mrs. Pearse praying all the way; meeting a Mrs. Hickey for dinner, ‘Mrs. H. has money, also tears (too many). She is going to do wonders. I
don’t believe it. People who shed tears so profusely generally do nothing else.
We’ll see’; also a graphic description of a copper mine in Butte, the intense
heat underground, ‘shocking working conditions. No union. Bosses hired
men to join union & then break it up’ (p. 69). She describes Mrs. Pearse as
‘the most cheerful traveller in the world’.
A most attractive item, which gives a vivid impression both of the goodwill
towards Irish causes in America, and of the disorganisation of their supporters.
€1000 - 1500
626
U.S.A. Stars & Stripes Flag:
A monumental red, white and blue American linen Flag, approx. 183cms x
300cms (72” x 118”), with machine sewn sections displaying 50 Stars and
with rope socket to one side. Unusual & Scarce. (1)
€200 - 300
161
627
PATRICK MURPHY [PADRAIG UA MURCHADHA],
PRISONER, BELFAST JAIL 1918-19
A very good archive of letters and documents relating to this Gaelic League and Sinn Fein member and
Irish Volunteer from Bray/Shankill, Co. Wicklow, who was a prisoner in Mountjoy and Belfast Jails
1918-19, including the period of the 'siege' of Belfast Jail, December 1918, including
- ALS from Eamon de Valera, 17.x.17, 1 pp, from Sraid Fearchair [Harcourt Street - then Sinn Fein HQ]
to Hon. Sec. Bray S.F. Club, stating he wishes 'to become a member of your branch of Sinn Fein', and
asking for his name to be put forward for election, etc. Stained, a few small holes, no loss.
The date is significant, as Dev was elected President of Sinn Fein at the Ardfheis about a week later,
replacing Arthur Griffith. De Valera was already a Sinn Fein TD, but presumably had not previously
joined a local Cumann.
- ALS from Cathal Brugha on Dail Dept. of Defence notepaper, to Padraig Ua Murchadha, 15.9.21, in
Irish, acknowledging a report which he has forwarded to O/C Dublin Brigade for his comments, etc.
- Typescript Charge Sheet in respect of the Accused Patrick Murphy of Bray, Co. Wicklow, alleging that
he spoke certain word [mentioning English Military Despotism, etc.], dated 23 August 1918.
- Dail Nominating Paper nominating Robert Barton to stand for the Dail constituency of Wicklow,
signed by Padraig Ua Murchadha and others, no date (1922?), separated at fold, complete;
- a selection of original photographs showing burial of Fr. Albert Bibby (one of the 'Volunteer Priests')
in the United States, where he was sent by his order, 1920s, inscribed rear by Murphy's friend Liam de
Burca and with ALS mentioning Fr. Bibby;
- an attractive handmade birthday card sent by Murphy to his wife Maire from Belfast prison, 3.8.1919,
and sketches of his cell and the prison sent to his son Sean Diarmuid, 31 July 1919;
- a folder containing letters about an internal dispute about the affairs of the Irish Republican Prisoners'
Dependants Fund, October 1921, including two short TLS from Austin Stack as Dail Minister for
Home Affairs (Cathal Brugha's letter above may relate to the same matter);
- a folder containing letters mostly from Patrick Murphy in later years concerning his military service,
military pension claim, etc., with details of his service;
- a folder containing various other letters to Patrick Murphy and his wife, mostly post-1921;
- a folder containing circa 20 prison letters from Padraig Murphy in Mountjoy and Belfast, 1918-19,
to his wife, with censor's marks, a few of these letters (remarkably) on Sinn Fein headed paper; and a
second folder containing circa 50 letters to Murphy in jail from his wife and various friends, some of
them also in jail, many of these letters with censor's marks, mostly with original envelopes, some of
them incomplete or with pages separated.
We have not investigated these letters in detail, and they may contain further interesting material.
Also a group of prison-made reproduction Tara brooches, apparenty made from prison pipework.
The condition of the archive is mixed. Some of the letters are damp-stained or marked; some have
pages separated or are incomplete. They have not been organised by date. Nevertheless it is a significant
archive containing a number of elements which may be of interest to scholars.
€1000 - 1500
162
628
AUSTIN STACK [1880-1929]: The Siege of Belfast Jail
Austin Stack's autograph book compiled 'i gcarcar i mBeul Feirsde' [in
prison in Belfast] dated 31.12.1918, during the 'siege' when Sinn Fein
prisoners took over a section of the jail for several days, a small red clothbound autograph book containing signatures of Seumas O Muineachain,
inscribed 'oidhche an bhuaidh' [the night of victory], 31.12.18, Joseph
Devine 10.1.19, Joseph McAree, James Hoey, Micheal O Duineachdha,
Charles J. O'Brien, James Walsh, Patrick Waldron, Robard Mac Coisdeala,
'4 months for kissing Dora, Up the Rebels', Sean P. Mac Treinfir, Sweet Vale
of Avoca, Capt, B. Co. Wicklow Batt., Michael Stapleton, Wm. Hoolan,
John Curley, 31.12.18, 'Fourth Day of the Siege of Belfast Gaol', Seamus P.
O Casaide, with a list of jails he has seen, Aodh Polloch, Sean O Dorain,
Timothy Leahy, Lt. Dan McCarthy, and several others inscribed 'Siege of
Belfast Jail' or similar; and including an attractve coloured drawing of a
cell by Padraig Ua Murchadha. In excellent condition.
The 'siege of Belfast Jail' began in Crumlin Road jail on 22 December
1918, when Austin Stack, the prisoners' commander, ordered that a newly
arrested Volunteer, James or John Doran, should be brought by his colleagues to the Republican wing, and not to the criminal section where the
authorities wanted to place him. Stack had prepared his ground by storing
food, and the prisoners held out in their quarters until an unofficial agreement was reached, seen as a victory for them. During the protest Orange
crowds gathered outside the jail, and there was a danger of serious conflict
for a time.
Austin Stack, from Tralee, was a founder member of the Irish Volunteers
and a commandant in the Easter Rising, when he was arrested while trying to make contact with Roger Casement. Later he was Dail Minister for
Home Affairs. He disagreed with Collins about some issues, and opposed
the Treaty. In jail again in 1923, he led a hunger strike which seriously
injured his health.
€700 - 1000
629
BELFAST JAIL AUTOGRAPH BOOKS
Two very good Republican autograph books compiled at Belfast Jail
around the time of the prison protest led by Austin Stack there, December
1918-January 1919. The larger book, small quarto, morocco-bound,
compiled by Padraig Ua Murchadha of Shankill, Co. Dublin, including
signatures of Austin Stack, Fionan Lynch, Earnan de Blaghd [Blythe],
Paul Galligan, Sean MacEanna, Micheal O Braonain [Brennan] of Co.
Clare,John Doran, ‘on the run somewhere in Belfast Jail’, Mairtin O
Droighneain, An Spideal, etc. etc. The second smaller book, in a dark green
cloth cover, compiled by Dan McCarthy mostly around 8-9.1.19, includes
many of the same names,in particular Aoibhistin de Staic [Stack], Earnan
de Blaghd [Blythe], Sean Ua Dorain [Doran], Fionan O Loingsigh [Lynch],
and some others.
(2)
€600 - 800
163
630
MICHAEL COLLINS 1890-1922
A framed photograph circa 5 x 3 3/8 ins [130 x 85 mm] showing Collins in
the back of a military limousine leaving Lee’s Hotel, Bandon, on the evening
of 22 August 1922, about half an hour before the ambush at Beal na Blath at
which he was shot. Collins is on the left, beside Gen. Emmet Dalton who is
studying a map. See Osborne: Michael Collins, A Life in Pictures, where an
almost identical photo is reproduced at p. 157.
This appears to be the last photograph taken of Collins in life. His party
was on its way back to Cork after a sweep through the countryside, and had
stopped at Lee’s Hotel (now the Munster Arms) for refreshments. Crowds
had greeted him at earlier stops, but only a few people saw him leave Lee’s
in the dusk of early evening.
[Possibly rephotographed from a newsreel film.]
€800 - 1200
631
KEVIN BARRY [1902-1920]
An unfamiliar photograph, probably enlarged, showing Barry (on right)
with three of his medical student friends, including Michael Joe Kelly (at
back) circa 1920, circa 14 x 18 ins [360 x 460 mm], framed, a little cracking
to photograph surface. Rare; we have not previously seen a copy.
Kevin Barry was the first Volunteer executed since the shootings after the
1916 Rising. He was arrested at the scene of an ambush in Dublin where
a young British soldier (about the same age) was killed. He was sentenced
to hang, and the sentence was executed in spite of a widespread campaign
for clemency. It appears he was ill-treated before his death. His youth and
exemplary bearing made a considerable impact on public opinion.
Provenance: By inheritance in the family of Michael Joe Kelly
€600 - 800
164
630
Collins (Michael)
An attractive original group photograph showing Collins posing
with Diarmuid Fawsitt, Comdt. Cooney, P. O’Keeffe T.D., Fathers
Leo & Edmond O.F.M., and Comdt. Sean Mc Keown. Approx.
14cms x 20cms, (5 1/2” x 8”), framed & glazed with caption. Rare.
* Photo was taken after the group attended 10.15 Mass at St. Francis
Church, Broad Lane, Cork, March 12th, 1922.
Provenance: Given to the vendor by late Miss Peg Duggan, a leading
member of Cumann na mBan during the Troubles. It was Peg who
called the priest for Cork’s Lord Mayor Tomas Mac Curtain on the
night he was shot dead by Crown Forces in March 1922. She was a
personal friend of Michael Collins.
Ex lot 675 Independence sale 2008
€2000 - 3000
631
MICHAEL COLLINS 1890-1922
A collection of photographs in a small oblong quarto album including two fine press agency photos of Collins, one showing him in
determined mood striding from a doorway in London during
the Treaty talks, in a three piece suit, wearing a hat and carrying
his coat, the other showing him seated in the back of an open car
smiling broadly, wearing a hat; both circa 5 5/8 x 7 ¾ ins [140 x 190
mm]. The album also includes a good photo of Ernest Blythe at his
desk, 1920s, and several photos showing the compiler (Alderman
Peadar Doyle TD) with others including T.F. O’Higgins, one of
these signed by Doyle.
As a collection
€1500 - 2000
165
631
WEDDING OF
PADRAIC O MAILLE TD 1921
A very good original photograph, framed, 7 x 11 ½ ins (17 x 28
cms), showing guests at the wedding of Padraic O Maille TD and his
bride Eileen at Vaughan’s Hotel, Parnell Square, Dublin, July 1921
(after the Truce). Guests include Michael Collins, Arthur Griffith,
Gearoid O’Sullivan, Dermot Hegarty, Mrs. Whelan (mother of the
executed Thomas Whelan), Dr. Browne (later Bishop of Galway), various O’Malleys, Joyces, etc., with a full key to those appearing at rear. An
unfamiliar and attractive photograph, one of very few where Michael
Collins thought it safe to show his face at this time.
Padraic O Maille TD, from Co. Galway, later endorsed the Treaty, and
in December 1922, while on his way across Dublin to the Dail with Sean
Hayes TD, the two were attacked by Republicans; O Maille was wounded
and Hales was shot dead. The incident led to the reprisal shooting of
Liam Mellows and his three comrades by the Free State Government.
€600 - 800
632
ROGER CASEMENT IN
GERMANY
A very rare photograph, 4 x 6 ¼ ins [10 x 16 cms], showing Casement
on board the German U-boat which was to return him to Ireland,
April 1916. Casement is shown on deck, with a moustache but without
his usual beard, with five men (mostly German officers), identified in
manuscript on back. The figure on left is Capt. Robert Monteith, others
include Capt. Weissbach and Sgt. Daniel Bailey.
[Possibly rephotographed.]
€500 - 700
166
Est 1887
&
MEALY'S
Established 1934
General Terms and Conditions of Business
The Auctioneer carries on business on the following terms and conditions and on such other terms or conditions as may be expressly agreed with the Auctioneer or set out in any relevant Catalogue. Conditions 12-21 relate mainly to buyers and
conditions 22-32 relate mainly to sellers. Words and phrases with special meanings are defined in condition 1. Buyers and sellers are requested to read carefully the Cataloguing Practice and Catalogue Explanation contained in condition 2.
DEFINITIONS AND GENERAL CONDITIONS
Definitions
1. In these conditions the following words and expressions shall have the following meanings:
‘Auctioneer’ – James Adam & Sons and Mealy’s
‘Auctioneer’s Commission’ – The commission payable to the Auctioneer by the buyer and seller as specified in conditions 13
and 25.
‘Catalogue’ – Any advertisement, brochure, estimate, price list or other publication.
‘Forgery’ – A Lot which was made with the intention of deceiving with regard to authorship, culture, source, origin, date, age or
period and which is not shown to be such in the description therefore in the Catalogue and the market value for which at the date
of the auction was substantially less than it would have been had the Lot been in accordance with the Catalogue description.
‘Hammer Price’ – The price at which a Lot is knocked down by the Auctioneer to the buyer.
‘Lot’ – Any item which is deposited with the Auctioneer with a view to its sale at auction and, in particular, the item or items
described against any Lot number in any Catalogue.
‘Proceeds of Sale’ – The net amount due to the seller being the Hammer Price of the Lot after deducting the Auctioneer’s
Commission thereon under condition 25 the seller’s contribution towards insurance under condition 26, such VAT as is chargeable and any other amounts due by the seller to the Auctioneer in whatever capacity howsoever arising.
‘Registration Form or Register’ – The registration form (or, in the case of persons who have previously attended at auctions
held by the Auctioneer and completed registration forms, the register maintained by the Auctioneer which is compiled from such
registration forms) to be completed and signed by each prospective buyer or, where the Auctioneer has acknowledged pursuant
to condition 12 that a bidder is acting as agent on behalf of a named principal, each such bidder prior to the commencement
of an auction.
‘Sale Order Form’ – The sale order form to be completed and signed by each seller prior to the commencement of an auction.
‘Total Amount Due’ – The Hammer Price of the Lot sold, the Auctioneer’s Commission due thereon under condition 13, such
VAT as is chargeable and any additional interest, expenses or charges due hereunder.
‘V.A.T.’ – Value Added Tax.
Cataloguing Practice and Catalogue Explanations
2. Terms used in Catalogues have the following meanings and the Cataloguing Practice is as follows:
The first name or names and surname of the artist;
In the opinion of the Auctioneer a work by the artist.
The initials of the first name(s) and the surname of the artist;
In the opinion of the Auctioneer a work of the period of the artist and which may be in whole or in part the work of the artist.
The surname only of the artist;
In the opinion of the Auctioneer a work of the school or by one of the followers of the artist or in his style.
The surname of the artist preceded by ‘after’;
In the opinion of the Auctioneer a copy of the work of the artist.
‘Signed’/’Dated’/’lnscribed’;
In the opinion of the Auctioneer the work has been signed/dated/inscribed by the artist.
‘With Signature’/’with date’/’with inscription’;
In the opinion of the Auctioneer the work has been signed/dated/inscribed by a person other than the artist.
‘Attributed to’;
In the opinion of the Auctioneer probably a work of the artist.
‘Studio of/Workshop of ’
In the opinion of the Auctioneer a work executed in the studio of the artist and possibly under his supervision.
‘Circle of ’;
In the opinion of the Auctioneer a work of the period of the artist and showing his influence.
‘Follower of ’;
In the opinion of the Auctioneer a work executed in the artist’s style yet not necessarily by a pupil.
‘Manner of ’;
In the opinion of the Auctioneer a work executed in artist’s style but of a later date.
‘*’;
None of the terms above are appropriate but in the Auctioneer’s opinion the work is a work by the artist named.
GENERAL CONDITIONS
Auctioneer Acting as Agent
3. The Auctioneer is selling as agent for the seller unless it is specifically stated to the contrary. The Auctioneer as agent for the
seller is not responsible for any default by the seller or the buyer.
Auctioneer Bidding on behalf of Buyer
4. It is suggested that the interests of prospective buyers are best protected and served by the buyers attending at an auction.
However, the Auctioneer will, if instructed, execute bids on behalf of a prospective buyer. Neither the Auctioneer nor its
employees, servants or agents shall be responsible for any neglect or default in executing bids or failing to execute bids.
Admission to Auctions
5. The Auctioneer shall have the right exercisable in its absolute discretion to refuse admission to its premises or attendance at
its auctions by any person.
Acceptance of Bids
6. The Auctioneer shall have the right exercisable in its absolute discretion to refuse any bids, advance the bidding in any manner
it may decide, withdraw or divide any Lot, combine any two or more Lots and, in the case of a dispute, to put any Lot up for
auction again.
Indemnities
7. Any indemnity given under these conditions shall extend to all actions, proceedings, claims, demands, costs and expenses
whatever and howsoever incurred or suffered by the person entitled to the benefit of the indemnity and the Auctioneer declares
itself to be a trustee of the benefit of every such indemnity for its employees, servants or agents to the extent that such indemnity
is expressed to be for their benefit.
Representations in Catalogues
8. Representations or statements made by the Auctioneer in any Catalogue as to contribution, authorship, genuineness, source,
origin, date, age, provenance, condition or estimated selling price or value is a statement of opinion only. Neither the Auctioneer
nor its employees, servants or agents shall be responsible for the accuracy of any such opinions. Every person interested in a Lot
must exercise and rely on their own judgment and opinion as to such matters.
9. The headings of the conditions herein contained are inserted for convenience of reference only and are not intended to be part
of, or to effect, the meaning or interpretation thereof.
167
CONDITIONS WHICH MAINLY CONCERN THE BUYER
The Buyer
12. The buyer shall be the highest bidder acceptable to the Auctioneer who buys at the Hammer Price. Any dispute which may
arise with regard to bidding or the acceptance of bids shall be settled by the Auctioneer. Every bidder shall be deemed to act as
principal unless the Auctioneer has prior to the auction, acknowledged in writing that a bidder is acting as agent on behalf of
a named principal.
Commission
13. The buyer shall pay the Auctioneer a commission at the rate of 18%, exclusive of vat, of the Hammer Price payable in
respect of any Lot.
Payment
14. Unless credit terms have been agreed with the Auctioneer before the auction the buyer of a Lot shall pay to the Auctioneer
within one (1) day from the date of the auction the Total Amount Due. Notwithstanding this, the Auctioneer may, in its sole
discretion, require a buyer to pay a deposit of 25% of the Total Amount Due at the conclusion of the auction.
The Auctioneer may apply any payments received by a buyer towards any sums owing from that buyer to the Auctioneer on any
account whatever regardless of any directions of the buyer or his agent in that regard whether express or implied.
The Auctioneer shall only accept payment from successful bidders in cash or by the bidder’s own cheque. Cheques drawn by
third parties, whether in the Auctioneer’s favour or requiring endorsement, shall not be accepted.
Reservation of Title
15. Notwithstanding delivery or passing of risk to the buyer the ownership of a Lot shall not pass to the buyer until he has paid
to the Auctioneer the Total Amount Due.
Collection of Purchases
16. The buyer shall at his own expense collect the Lot purchased not later than (2) days after the sale etc (2) days after the date
of the auction but (unless credit terms have been agreed with the Auctioneer pursuant to condition 14) not before payment to
the Auctioneer of the Total Amount Due.
The buyer shall be responsible for any removal, storage and insurance charges in respect of any Lot which is not taken away
within seven (2) days after the date of the auction.
The purchased Lot shall be at the buyer’s risk in all respects from the earlier of the time of collection or the expiry of one (1) day
from the date of the auction. Neither the Auctioneer nor its employees, servants or agents shall thereafter be liable for any loss or
damage of any kind howsoever caused while a purchased Lot remains in its custody or control after such time.
Packaging and Handling of Purchased Lots
17. Purchased Lots may be packed and handled by the Auctioneer, its employees, servants or agents. Where this is done it is
undertaken solely as a courtesy to buyers and at the discretion of the Auctioneer. Under no circumstances shall the Auctioneer,
its employees, servants or agents be liable for damage of any kind and howsoever caused to glass or frames nor shall the
Auctioneer be liable for the errors or omissions of, or for any damage caused by, any packers or shippers which the Auctioneer
has recommended.
(f ) To retain that Lot or any other Lot purchased by the buyer whether at the same or any other auction and release
same to the buyer only after payment to the Auctioneer of the Total Amount Due.
(g) To apply any sums which the Auctioneer received in respect of Lots being sold by the buyer towards settlement of
the Total Amount Due.
To exercise a lien on any property of the buyer in the possession of the Auctioneer or whatever reason.
(h) Liability of Auctioneer and Seller
19. Prior to auction ample opportunity is given for the inspection of the Lots on sale and each buyer by making a bid acknowledges that he has, by exercising and relying on his own judgment, satisfied himself as to the physical condition, age and Catalogue
description of each Lot (including but not restricted to whether the Lot is damaged or has been repaired or restored). All Lots
are sold with all faults and imperfections and errors of description. None of the seller, the Auctioneer nor any of their employees,
servants or agents shall be responsible for any error of description or for the condition or authenticity of any Lot. No warranty
whatsoever is given by the seller or Auctioneer or by any of their employees, servants or agents in respect of any Lot and any
condition or warranty express or implied by statute or otherwise is hereby specifically excluded.
Forgeries
20. Any amount paid by a buyer in respect of a Lot which, if it is proved within three (3) years of the date of the auction at which
it was purchased, to have been a Forgery shall be refunded to the seller subject to the provisions hereof, provided that:
(a) The Lot has been returned by the buyer to the Auctioneer within three (3) years of the date of the
auction in the same condition in which it was at the time of the auction together with evidence proving that it is a
Forgery, the number of the Lot and the date of the auction at which it was purchased;
(b) The Auctioneer is satisfied that the Lot is a Forgery and that the buyer has and is able to transfer good and marketable title to the Lot free from any third party claims;
FURTHER PROVIDED THAT the buyer shall have no rights hereunder if:
(i) The description of the Lot in the Catalogue at the time of the auction was in accordance with the then generally
accepted opinion of scholars or experts or fairly indicated that there was a conflict of such opinion;
(ii) The buyer’s sole entitlement under this condition is to a refund of the actual amount paid by him in respect of the Lot. Under no
circumstances shall the Auctioneer be liable for any damage, loss (including consequential, indirect or economic loss) or expense
suffered or incurred by the buyer by reason of the Lot being a Forgery.
The benefit of this condition shall be solely and exclusively for the buyer and shall not be assignable. The buyer shall for the
purpose of this condition be the person to whom the original invoice in respect of the sale of the Lot is made.
Photographs
21. The buyer authorises the Auctioneer at any time to make use of any photographs or illustrations of the Lot purchased by the
buyer for such purposes as the Auctioneer may require.
Non-Payment or Failure to Collect Purchased Lots
18. If a buyer fails to pay for and/or collect any purchased Lot by the dates herein specified for payment and collection the
Auctioneer shall, in its absolute discretion and without prejudice to any other rights or remedies it may have, be entitled to
exercise one or more of the following rights or remedies without further notice to the buyer:
(a) To issue court proceedings for damages for breach of contract;
(b) To rescind the sale of that Lot or any other Lots sold to the buyer whether at that or at any other auction;
(c) To resell the Lot or cause it to be resold whether by public auction or private sale. In the event that there is a
deficiency between the Total Amount Due by the buyer and the amount received by the Auctioneer on such resale
after deduction of any necessary expenses the difference shall be paid to the Auctioneer by the buyer. Any surplus
arising shall belong to the seller.
(d) To store (whether at the Auctioneer’s premises or elsewhere) and insure the
purchased Lot at the expense of the buyer.
(e) To charge interest on the Total Amount Due at the rate of 2% over and above the base rate from time to time of
Bank of Ireland or if there be no such rate, the nearest equivalent thereto as determined by the Auctioneer in its
absolute discretion from the date on which payment is due hereunder to the date of actual payment.
The only method of establishing at the time of the auction in question that the Lot was a Forgery would have been
by means of scientific processes which were not generally accepted for use until after the date of the auction or which
were unreasonably expensive or impractical.
CONDITIONS WHICH MAINLY CONCERN THE SELLER
Auctioneer’s Discretion
22. With regard to the sale of any Lot the Auctioneer shall have the following powers exercisable solely in the discretion of the
Auctioneer:
(i) To decide whether to offer any Lot for sale or not;
(ii) To decide whether a particular Lot is suitable for sale by the Auctioneer and, if so, to determine which auction, the
place and date of sale, the conditions of sale and the manner in which such sale should be conducted;
(iii) To determine the description of any Lot in a Catalogue.
(iv) To decide whether the views of any expert shall be obtained and to submit Lots for examination by any such
experts.
(v) To determine what illustration of a Lot (if any) is to be included in the Catalogue.
168
23. The seller warrants to the Auctioneer and to the buyer that he is the true owner of the Lot or is legally authorised to sell the
Lot on behalf of the true owner and can transfer good and marketable title to the Lot free from any third party claims. As regards
Lots not held by the Auctioneer on its premises or under its control the seller warrants and undertakes to the Auctioneer and the
buyer that the Lot will be available and in a deliverable state on demand by the Auctioneer or buyer. The seller shall indemnify
the Auctioneer and the buyer or any of their respective employees, servants or agents against any loss or damage suffered by any of
them in consequence of any breach of the above warranties or undertakings by the seller.
Reserves
24. Subject to the Auctioneer’s discretion, the seller shall be entitled prior to the auction to place a reserve on any Lot. All reserves
must be agreed in advance by the Auctioneer and entered on the Sale Order Form or subsequently be confirmed in writing to the
Auctioneer prior to auction. This also applies to changes in reserves. A reserve may not be placed upon any Lots under IR£100 in
value. The reserve shall be the minimum Hammer Price at which the Lot may be sold by the Auctioneer. A reserve once in place
may only be changed with the consent of the Auctioneer. A commission shall be charged on the ‘knock-down’ bid for Lots which
fail to reach the reserve price. Such commission shall be 5% of the ‘knock-down’ bid. This commission and any VAT payable
thereon must be paid before removal of the Lot after the auction. The minimum commission hereunder shall be IR £25. The
Auctioneer may in its sole discretion sell a Lot at a Hammer Price below the reserve therefore but in such case the Proceeds of Sale
to which the seller shall be entitled shall be the same as they would have been had the sale been at the reverse.
Unless a reserve has been placed on a Lot in accordance with the provisions set out above such Lot shall be put up for sale without
reserve.
In the event that any reserve price is not reached at auction then for so long as the Lot remains with the Auctioneer and to the
extent that the Lot has not been re-entered in another auction pursuant to condition 31 the seller authorises the Auctioneer to sell
the Lot by private treaty at not less than the reserve price. The Auctioneer shall ensure that in such a case those conditions herein
which concern mainly the buyer shall, with any necessary modification, apply to such sale.
Commission
25. The seller shall pay the Auctioneer commission at the rate of 10% on the Hammer Price of all Lots sold on behalf of the seller
at Irish Art Sales and 12.5% on the Hammer Price of all Lots sold on behalf of the seller at Fine Art, Wine and Militaria Sales
together with V.A.T. thereon at the applicable rate. The seller authorises the Auctioneer to deduct from the Hammer Price paid by
the buyer the Auctioneer’s Commission under this condition; VAT payable at the applicable rates and any other amounts due by the
seller to the Auctioneer in whatever capacity howsoever arising. The seller agrees that the Auctioneer may also receive commission
from the buyer pursuant to condition 13.
Insurance
26. Unless otherwise instructed by the seller, all Lots (with the exception of motor vehicles) deposited with the Auctioneer or put
under its control for sale shall automatically be insured by the Auctioneer under the Auctioneer’s own fine arts policy for such sum
as the Auctioneer shall from time to time in its absolute discretion determine. The seller shall pay the Auctioneer a contribution
towards such insurance at the rate of 1% of the Hammer Price plus VAT. If the seller instructs the Auctioneer not to insure a Lot
then the Lot shall at all times remain at the risk of the seller who undertakes to indemnify the Auctioneer and hold the Auctioneer
harmless against any and all claims made or proceedings brought against the Auctioneer of whatever nature and howsoever and
wheresoever occurring for loss or damage to the Lot. The sum for which a Lot is covered for insurance under this condition shall
not constitute and shall not be relied upon by the seller as a representation, warranty or guarantee as to the value of the Lot or that
the Lot will, if sold by the Auctioneer, be sold for such amount. Such insurance shall subsist until such time as the Lot is paid for
and collected by the buyer or, in the case of Lots sold which are not paid for or collected by the buyer by the due date hereunder
for payment or collection such due date or, in the case of Lots which are not sold, on the expiry of seven (7) days from the date on
which the Auctioneer has notified the seller to collect the Lots.
Recision of Sale
27. If before the Auctioneer has paid the Proceeds of Sale to the seller the buyer proves to the satisfaction of the Auctioneer that
the Lot sold is a Forgery and the requirements of condition 20 are satisfied the Auctioneer shall rescind the sale and refund to the
buyer any amount paid to the Auctioneer by the buyer in respect of the Lot.
Payment of Proceeds of Sale
28. The Auctioneer shall remit the Proceeds of Sale to the seller not later than thirty (30) days after the date of the auction, provided
however that, if by that date, the Auctioneer has not received the Total Amount Due from the buyer then the Auctioneer shall remit
the Proceeds of Sale within seven (7) working days after the date on which the Total Amount Due is received from the buyer. If
credit terms have been agreed between the Auctioneer and the buyer the Auctioneer shall remit to the seller the Proceeds of Sale
not later than thirty (30) days after the date of the auction unless otherwise agreed by the seller.
If before the Total Amount Due is paid by the buyer the Auctioneer pays the seller an amount equal to the Proceeds of Sale then
title to the Lot shall pass to the Auctioneer.
If the buyer fails to pay the Auctioneer the Total Amount Due within fourteen (14) days after the date of the auction, the
Auctioneer shall endeavour to notify the seller and take the seller’s instructions on the course of action to be taken and, to the extent
that it is in the sole opinion of the Auctioneer feasible, shall endeavour to assist the seller to recover the Total Amount Due from the
buyer provided that nothing herein shall oblige the Auctioneer to issue proceedings against the buyer in the Auctioneer’s own name.
If circumstances do not permit the Auctioneer to take instructions from the seller or, if after notifying the seller, it does not receive
instructions within seven (7) days, the Auctioneer reserves the right, and is hereby authorised by the seller at the seller’s expense,
to agree special terms for payments of the Total Amount Due, to remove, store and insure the Lot sold, to settle claims made by
or against the buyer on such terms as the Auctioneer shall in its absolute discretion think fit, to take such steps as are necessary to
collect monies due by the buyer to the seller and, if necessary, to rescind the sale and refund money to the buyer.
Payment of Proceeds to Overseas Sellers
29. If the seller resides outside Ireland the Proceeds of Sale shall be paid to such seller in Irish Punts unless it was agreed with the
seller prior to the auction that the Proceeds of Sale would be paid in a currency (other than Irish Punts) specified by the seller in
which case the Proceeds of Sale shall be paid by the Auctioneer to the seller in such specified currency (provided that that currency
is legally available to the Auctioneer in the amount required) calculated at the rate of exchange quoted to the Auctioneer by its
bankers on the date of payment.
Charges for Withdrawn Lots
30. Once catalogued, Lots withdrawn from sale before proofing/publication of Catalogue will be subject to commission of 5% of
the Auctioneer’s latest estimate of the auction price of the Lot withdrawn together with VAT thereon and any expenses incurred
by the Auctioneer in relation to the Lot. If Lots are withdrawn after proofing or publication of Catalogue they will be subject to a
commission of 10% of the Auctioneer’s latest estimate of the auction price of the Lot withdrawn together with VAT thereon and
any expenses incurred by the Auctioneer in relation to the Lot. All commission hereunder must be paid for before Lots withdrawn
may be removed.
Unsold Lots
31. Where any Lot fails to sell at auction the Auctioneer shall notify the seller accordingly and (in the absence of agreement between
the seller and the Auctioneer to the contrary) such Lot may, in the absolute discretion of the Auctioneer, be re-entered in the next
suitable auction unless instructions are received from the seller to the contrary, otherwise such Lots must be collected at the seller’s
expense within the period of thirty (30) days of such notification from the Auctioneer.
Upon the expiry of such period the Auctioneer shall have the right to sell such Lots by public auction or private sale and on such
terms as the Auctioneer in its sole discretion may think fit. The Auctioneer shall be entitled to deduct from the price received for
such Lots any sums owing to the Auctioneer in respect of such Lots including without limitation removal, storage and insurance
expenses, any commission and expenses due in respect of the prior auction and commission and expenses in respect of the
subsequent auction together with all reasonable expenses before remitting the balance to the seller. If the seller cannot be traced
the balance shall be placed in a bank account in the name of the Auctioneer for the seller. Any deficit arising shall be due from the
seller to the Auctioneer. Any Lots returned at the seller’s request shall be returned at the seller’s risk and expense and will not be
insured in transit unless the Auctioneer is so instructed by the seller.
Auctioneer’s Right to Photographs and Illustrations
32. The seller authorises the Auctioneer to photograph and illustrate any Lot placed with if for sale and further authorises the
Auctioneer to use such photographs and illustrations and any photographs and illustrations provided by the seller at any time in
its absolute discretion (whether or not in connection with the auction).

Independence

Transcription

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