Chronology of the Irish Civil War
Encyclopedia
This is a timeline of the Irish Civil War
, which took place between June 1922 and May 1923. It followed the Irish War of Independence
(1919–1921), and accompanied the establishment of the Irish Free State
as an entity independent from the United Kingdom
.
The conflict was waged between two opposing groups of Irish nationalists
: the forces of the new Irish Free State, who supported the Anglo-Irish Treaty
under which the state was established, and the Republican
opposition, for whom the Treaty represented a betrayal of the Irish Republic
.
The Government of the Irish Free State (established as a Provisional Government in January 1922 and as a full government in December 1922) was ultimately victorious. The anti-Treaty forces called a ceasefire in April 1923 and ordered their men to "dump arms" in May 1923.
The war involved both conventional warfare
(late June–August 1922) when the Free State forces took the major towns and cities, and then a longer period of guerrilla warfare
(September 1922–April 1923) as the anti-Treaty forces were gradually brought to a standstill.
See also IRA and the Anglo-Irish Treaty
Total for 1922 and 1923: 639-795.
With additional statistics – fatalities by county available for: Cork 180, Kerry 185, Sligo 54, Offaly 21.
Anti Treaty combatants killed in Clare: 28 (no reliable statistics for pro Treaty/Civilians).
Pro/Anti Treaty combatants killed between January–June 1922, 9, - 2 in Clare. Casualties in County Kildare, 45 killed. (17 National Army)
Additions,: Kerry + 78, Cork + 120, Sligo + 39, Offaly + 19, Clare + 27, January–June clashes + 7 = 290
Revised total: 929-1085*
A range is given where casualties are reported but not confirmed.
* this is not a definitive total, but rather what could be found in this article.
* Civilian casualties, may be far higher, casualties for the Dublin fighting are given as 250, but it is not clear how many of these were killed and how many wounded.
Irish Civil War
The Irish Civil War was a conflict that accompanied the establishment of the Irish Free State as an entity independent from the United Kingdom within the British Empire....
, which took place between June 1922 and May 1923. It followed the Irish War of Independence
Irish War of Independence
The Irish War of Independence , Anglo-Irish War, Black and Tan War, or Tan War was a guerrilla war mounted by the Irish Republican Army against the British government and its forces in Ireland. It began in January 1919, following the Irish Republic's declaration of independence. Both sides agreed...
(1919–1921), and accompanied the establishment of the Irish Free State
Irish Free State
The Irish Free State was the state established as a Dominion on 6 December 1922 under the Anglo-Irish Treaty, signed by the British government and Irish representatives exactly twelve months beforehand...
as an entity independent from the United Kingdom
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland was the formal name of the United Kingdom during the period when what is now the Republic of Ireland formed a part of it....
.
The conflict was waged between two opposing groups of Irish nationalists
Irish nationalism
Irish nationalism manifests itself in political and social movements and in sentiment inspired by a love for Irish culture, language and history, and as a sense of pride in Ireland and in the Irish people...
: the forces of the new Irish Free State, who supported the Anglo-Irish Treaty
Anglo-Irish Treaty
The Anglo-Irish Treaty , officially called the Articles of Agreement for a Treaty Between Great Britain and Ireland, was a treaty between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and representatives of the secessionist Irish Republic that concluded the Irish War of...
under which the state was established, and the Republican
Irish Republicanism
Irish republicanism is an ideology based on the belief that all of Ireland should be an independent republic.In 1801, under the Act of Union, the Kingdom of Great Britain and the Kingdom of Ireland merged to form the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland...
opposition, for whom the Treaty represented a betrayal of the Irish Republic
Irish Republic
The Irish Republic was a revolutionary state that declared its independence from Great Britain in January 1919. It established a legislature , a government , a court system and a police force...
.
The Government of the Irish Free State (established as a Provisional Government in January 1922 and as a full government in December 1922) was ultimately victorious. The anti-Treaty forces called a ceasefire in April 1923 and ordered their men to "dump arms" in May 1923.
The war involved both conventional warfare
Conventional warfare
Conventional warfare is a form of warfare conducted byusing conventional military weapons and battlefield tactics between two or more states in open confrontation. The forces on each side are well-defined, and fight using weapons that primarily target the opposing army...
(late June–August 1922) when the Free State forces took the major towns and cities, and then a longer period of guerrilla warfare
Guerrilla warfare
Guerrilla warfare is a form of irregular warfare and refers to conflicts in which a small group of combatants including, but not limited to, armed civilians use military tactics, such as ambushes, sabotage, raids, the element of surprise, and extraordinary mobility to harass a larger and...
(September 1922–April 1923) as the anti-Treaty forces were gradually brought to a standstill.
January
- 7 January – The Anglo-Irish TreatyAnglo-Irish TreatyThe Anglo-Irish Treaty , officially called the Articles of Agreement for a Treaty Between Great Britain and Ireland, was a treaty between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and representatives of the secessionist Irish Republic that concluded the Irish War of...
is passed in the DáilSecond DáilThe Second Dáil was Dáil Éireann as it convened from 16 August 1921 until 8 June 1922. From 1919–1922 Dáil Éireann was the revolutionary parliament of the self-proclaimed Irish Republic. The Second Dáil consisted of members elected in 1921...
(Parliament of the Irish RepublicIrish RepublicThe Irish Republic was a revolutionary state that declared its independence from Great Britain in January 1919. It established a legislature , a government , a court system and a police force...
) by 64 votes to 57. - 14 January – A Provisional Government is set up to administer the handover from British rule to the new Irish Free StateIrish Free StateThe Irish Free State was the state established as a Dominion on 6 December 1922 under the Anglo-Irish Treaty, signed by the British government and Irish representatives exactly twelve months beforehand...
. The Cabinet is almost the same as that of the Irish Republic, with the exception of Éamon de ValeraÉamon de ValeraÉamon de Valera was one of the dominant political figures in twentieth century Ireland, serving as head of government of the Irish Free State and head of government and head of state of Ireland...
, Cathal BrughaCathal BrughaCathal Brugha was an Irish revolutionary and politician, active in the Easter Rising, Irish War of Independence, and the Irish Civil War and was the first Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann.-Background:...
and Austin StackAustin StackAustin Stack was an Irish revolutionary and politician.-Early life:Stack was born in Ballymullen, Tralee, County Kerry. He was educated at the Christian Brothers School in Tralee. At the age of fourteen he left school and became a clerk in a solicitor's office. A gifted Gaelic footballer, he...
, who resign over the acceptance of the Treaty.
February
- 18 February – An Anti-Treaty IRA unit under Ernie O'MalleyErnie O'MalleyErnie O'Malley was an Irish Republican Army officer during the Irish War of Independence and a commander of the anti-treaty IRA during the Irish Civil War. O'Malley wrote three books, On Another Man's Wound, The Singing Flame, and Raids and Rallies. The first describes his early life and role in...
seizes an RICRoyal Irish ConstabularyThe armed Royal Irish Constabulary was Ireland's major police force for most of the nineteenth and the early twentieth centuries. A separate civic police force, the unarmed Dublin Metropolitan Police controlled the capital, and the cities of Derry and Belfast, originally with their own police...
barracks in ClonmelClonmelClonmel is the county town of South Tipperary in Ireland. It is the largest town in the county. While the borough had a population of 15,482 in 2006, another 17,008 people were in the rural hinterland. The town is noted in Irish history for its resistance to the Cromwellian army which sacked both...
, taking 40 policemen prisoner and capturing 600 rifles and thousands of rounds of ammunition. - Anti-Treaty IRA leader Séamus Robinson closes down the Clonmel Nationalist newspaper over its support for the Treaty. Rory O'Connor has the Freeman's JournalFreeman's JournalThe Freeman's Journal was the oldest nationalist newspaper in Ireland. It was founded in 1763 by Charles Lucas and was identified with radical 18th century Protestant patriot politicians Henry Grattan and Henry Flood...
closed down for the same reason.
March
- A stand-off occurs in LimerickLimerickLimerick is the third largest city in the Republic of Ireland, and the principal city of County Limerick and Ireland's Mid-West Region. It is the fifth most populous city in all of Ireland. When taking the extra-municipal suburbs into account, Limerick is the third largest conurbation in the...
between 700 pro-treaty IRA men under Michael BrennanMichael BrennanMichael Brennan may refer to:* Michael Brennan , film and television actor* Michael Brennan , former Australian rules footballer...
and 800 Anti-Treaty IRA fighters under Ernie O'MalleyErnie O'MalleyErnie O'Malley was an Irish Republican Army officer during the Irish War of Independence and a commander of the anti-treaty IRA during the Irish Civil War. O'Malley wrote three books, On Another Man's Wound, The Singing Flame, and Raids and Rallies. The first describes his early life and role in...
over who will take over the military barracks, which were being abandoned by British troops. After negotiations between the Mayor of Limerick, Stephen M. O'MaraStephen M. O'MaraStephen Mary O'Mara was a businessman and Irish republican politician in Limerick....
, Anti-Treaty leader Liam Lynch and Pro-Treaty leader Richard MulcahyRichard MulcahyRichard James Mulcahy was an Irish politician, army general and commander in chief, leader of Fine Gael and Cabinet Minister...
, fighting is averted. It is decided that troops from outside Limerick will return to their own areas and that Limerick IRA men would divide the two military garrisons there between pro and Anti-Treaty units. Limerick Corporation will oversee the maintenance of the RIC barracks. - More confrontations result over the occupation of former British garrisons at BirrBirrBirr is a town in County Offaly, Ireland. Once called Parsonstown, after the Parsons family who were local landowners and hereditary Earls of Rosse. It is also a parish in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Killaloe....
, RenmoreRenmoreRenmore is a suburb of Galway City, Ireland, situated approximately 2 km to the east of the city. St Oliver Plunkett Church is located beside the primary school. Lough Atalia lies between Renmore and the city, which can be crossed using the public path beside the railway line...
and TemplemoreTemplemoreTemplemore is a town in North Tipperary, Ireland. It is a civil parish in the historical barony of Eliogarty. It is part of the Roman Catholic parish of Templemore, Clonmore and Killea....
. - 26 March – IRA leaders meet in an "Army Convention" and vote to repudiate the Treaty. They also reject the authority of the Dáil to accept the Treaty and set up their own 16 man "Army Executive", led by Liam MellowsLiam MellowsLiam Mellows was an Irish Republican and Sinn Féin politician. Born in England, Mellows grew up in County Wexford in Ireland. He was active with the Irish Republican Brotherhood and Irish Volunteers, and participated in the Easter Rising in County Galway, and the War of Independence...
and Rory O'ConnorRory O'Connor (Irish republican)Rory O'Connor was an Irish republican activist. He is best remembered for his role in the Irish Civil War 1922-1923, which led to his execution.-Background:...
.
See also IRA and the Anglo-Irish Treaty
IRA and the Anglo-Irish Treaty
The Irish Republican Army was a guerrilla army that fought the Irish War of Independence against Britain from 1919–1921. It saw itself as the legitimate army of the Irish Republic declared in 1919. The Anglo-Irish Treaty, which ended this conflict, was a compromise which abolished the Irish...
- 29 March – Anti-Treaty IRA units in Cork under Sean Hegarty raid the British warship Upnor at sea. They take between 400 and 1,500 rifles, 60 machine guns, 700 handguns and over 25,000 rounds of ammunition, which they then distribute to Anti-Treaty IRA units.
- The Provisional Government's newly formed National ArmyIrish ArmyThe Irish Army, officially named simply the Army is the main branch of the Defence Forces of Ireland. Approximately 8,500 men and women serve in the Irish Army, divided into three infantry Brigades...
takes over the British barracks at Beggar's Bush in Dublin.
April
- 14 April – Rory O'Connor, Mellows and others lead 200 Anti-Treaty IRA men in taking over the Four CourtsFour CourtsThe Four Courts in Dublin is the Republic of Ireland's main courts building. The Four Courts are the location of the Supreme Court, the High Court and the Dublin Circuit Court. The building until 2010 also formerly was the location for the Central Criminal Court.-Gandon's Building:Work based on...
and several other public buildings around Dublin in a show of defiance calculated to provoke a response by the British troops still stationed in Dublin. - 20 April – There is 'intense firing' for two hours, starting at midnight, by Anti-Treaty fighters on the Pro-Treaty troops in Dublin stationed at the Provsional Government headquarters in Merrion SquareMerrion SquareMerrion Square is a Georgian square on the southside of Dublin city centre. It was laid out after 1762 and was largely complete by the beginning of the 19th century. It is considered one of the city's finest surviving squares...
, the Bank of IrelandBank of IrelandThe Bank of Ireland is a commercial bank operation in Ireland, which is one of the 'Big Four' in both parts of the island.Historically the premier banking organisation in Ireland, the Bank occupies a unique position in Irish banking history...
on College GreenCollege GreenCollege Green is a three-sided "square" in the centre of Dublin. On its northern side is a building known today as the Bank of Ireland which until 1800 was Ireland's Parliament House. To its east stands Trinity College Dublin, the only constituent college of the University of Dublin. To its south...
, the telephone exchange and City Hall, DublinCity Hall, DublinThe City Hall, Dublin , originally the Royal Exchange, is a civic building in Dublin, Ireland. It was built between 1769 and 1779 to the designs of architect Thomas Cooley and is a notable example of 18th-century architecture in the city.-Overview:...
. Three people are wounded. The Four Courts Anti-Treaty garrison denies knowledge of the attack. - Pro-Treaty Brigadier General Adamson is shot dead by Republicans in Athlone in a dispute over who would occupy the military barracks there.
May
- 2 May – Republicans take over the centre of KilkennyKilkennyKilkenny is a city and is the county town of the eponymous County Kilkenny in Ireland. It is situated on both banks of the River Nore in the province of Leinster, in the south-east of Ireland...
, including the city hall and Kilkenny CastleKilkenny CastleKilkenny Castle is a castle in Kilkenny, Ireland built in 1195 by William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke to control a fording-point of the River Nore and the junction of several routeways...
. The Provisional government sends 200 troops by train from Dublin to dislodge them. Fighting breaks out when the troops from Dublin arrive and there are up to 18 casualties. A truce is then brokered whereby both sides garrison different posts in the town. - 3 May – Pro and Anti-Treaty leaders announce a "truce" in the Dáil to try to prevent civil war.
- 4 May - Pro and Anti Treaty IRA forces clash in Donegal. There is firefight at Buncrana in which two republicans and two civilians are wounded, one fatally.
- At NewtowncunninghamNewtowncunninghamNewtown Cunningham , sometimes spelled Newtowncunningham or abbreviated to Newton , is a village in The Laggan district in the east of County Donegal, Ireland. Located on the N13 road 18 km east of Letterkenny and 16 km west of Derry, it is ideally located as a commuter village for both...
, Donegal, a Free State motor convoy is ambushed by republicans, one Pro treaty soldier is killed ouright and four fatally wounded. - 20 May – Michael Collins and Éamon de Valera sign a Pact, in which the pro and Anti-Treaty wings of Sinn Féin would jointly contest the upcoming first election of the new state.
- There is a fire fight at GormanstonGormanston, County MeathGormanston or Gormanstown is a village in County Meath, Ireland. It is near the mouth of the River Delvin and the northern border of County Dublin.-Access:Gormanston is near the M1 Dublin-Belfast road...
railway station, Meath, between RIC men and Anti-Treaty fighters. One Anti-Treaty officer and one RIC man are killed.
June
- Éamon de Valera repudiates the election pact with Collins.
- 18 June – Irish general election, 1922Irish general election, 1922The Irish general election of 1922 took place in Southern Ireland on 16 June 1922, under the provisions of the 1921 Anglo-Irish Treaty to elect a constituent assembly paving the way for the formal establishment of the Irish Free State...
– The Pro-Treaty Sinn FéinSinn FéinSinn Féin is a left wing, Irish republican political party in Ireland. The name is Irish for "ourselves" or "we ourselves", although it is frequently mistranslated as "ourselves alone". Originating in the Sinn Féin organisation founded in 1905 by Arthur Griffith, it took its current form in 1970...
party wins the election with 239,193 votes to 133,864 for Anti-Treaty Sinn Féin. A further 247,226 people voted for other parties, all of whom supported the Treaty (except Unionist Party) - 22 June – Assassination in LondonLondonLondon is the capital city of :England and the :United Kingdom, the largest metropolitan area in the United Kingdom, and the largest urban zone in the European Union by most measures. Located on the River Thames, London has been a major settlement for two millennia, its history going back to its...
of Henry Hughes Wilson by IRA men in retaliation for attacks on Catholics in Northern IrelandNorthern IrelandNorthern Ireland is one of the four countries of the United Kingdom. Situated in the north-east of the island of Ireland, it shares a border with the Republic of Ireland to the south and west...
. Research will eventually come to suggest that it was Pro-Treaty leader Michael CollinsMichael Collins (Irish leader)Michael "Mick" Collins was an Irish revolutionary leader, Minister for Finance and Teachta Dála for Cork South in the First Dáil of 1919, Director of Intelligence for the IRA, and member of the Irish delegation during the Anglo-Irish Treaty negotiations. Subsequently, he was both Chairman of the...
who ordered the killing, but at the time, Winston ChurchillWinston ChurchillSir Winston Leonard Spencer-Churchill, was a predominantly Conservative British politician and statesman known for his leadership of the United Kingdom during the Second World War. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest wartime leaders of the century and served as Prime Minister twice...
assumes that the Anti-Treaty Four Courts garrison is responsible and warns Collins that if he does not act, British troops will be used to re-take Dublin. The assassins are hanged by the British on 10 August. - 27 June – The Four Courts garrison kidnaps Free State General J.J. O'Connell. Collins gives a final ultimatum to the Four Courts garrison to surrender before they are attacked.
- 28 June – 5 July – Battle of DublinBattle of DublinThe Battle of Dublin, a week of street fighting in Dublin from 28 June to 5 July 1922, marked the beginning of the Irish Civil War. The fighting began with an assault by the Provisional Government of the proposed Irish Free State on the Four Courts building which had been occupied by a hard-line...
- 28 June – Michael Collins borrows two British 18-pounder field guns to bombard the Four Courts, marking the definitive start of the Civil War.
- Fighting breaks out in DroghedaDroghedaDrogheda is an industrial and port town in County Louth on the east coast of Ireland, 56 km north of Dublin. It is the last bridging point on the River Boyne before it enters the Irish Sea....
between pro and Anti-Treaty units. One man on either side and a woman civilian are killed in a gun battle in the town. Many other civilians including the town's mayor are wounded. The Republicans are left in control of the town. The Anti-Treaty fighters blow up the railway bridge to the south of Drogheda, isolating it from Dublin. - An Anti-Treaty fighter is killed in fighting Tipperary town.
- 29 June – British give Collins two more 18 pounders to increase the bombardment of the Four Courts. Free State troops storm the eastern buildings of the complex, losing 3 dead and 14 wounded.
- Oscar TraynorOscar TraynorOscar Traynor was an Irish Fianna Fáil politician and revolutionary. He served in a number of Cabinet positions, most notably as the country's longest-serving Minister for Defence....
leads Anti-Treaty members of the IRA's 1st Dublin Brigade to occupy O'Connell StreetO'Connell StreetO'Connell Street is Dublin's main thoroughfare. It measures 49 m in width at its southern end, 46 m at the north, and is 500 m in length...
in order to help the Four Courts garrison. His men also take up positions in York Street, South Circular Road, Capel Street, Parnell Square and Dolphin's BarnDolphin's BarnDolphin's Barn is an inner city suburb of Dublin, Ireland, situated on the Southside of the city in the Dublin 8, and partially in the Dublin 12, postal district. Its name derives from a family named Dolphyn who once owned a storehouse there. Surrounding areas include The Liberties, Inchicore,...
. - Skirmish in Listowel County KerryCounty KerryKerry means the "people of Ciar" which was the name of the pre-Gaelic tribe who lived in part of the present county. The legendary founder of the tribe was Ciar, son of Fergus mac Róich. In Old Irish "Ciar" meant black or dark brown, and the word continues in use in modern Irish as an adjective...
, Free State troops surrender their arms to Republicans. - 30 June – Anti-Treaty commander in the Four Courts, Paddy O'BrienPaddy O'BrienPaddy O'Brien may refer to:* Paddy O'Brien , retired inter-county Irish Gaelic footballer* Paddy O'Brien...
is wounded by shrapnel. Ernie O'MalleyErnie O'MalleyErnie O'Malley was an Irish Republican Army officer during the Irish War of Independence and a commander of the anti-treaty IRA during the Irish Civil War. O'Malley wrote three books, On Another Man's Wound, The Singing Flame, and Raids and Rallies. The first describes his early life and role in...
assumes command. In the morning there is a truce to remove the wounded. Shortly afterward, a massive explosion destroys the western wing of the Four Courts and the Irish Public Records Office along with it. It is thought to have been caused when fires from the artillery bombardment set off munitions stored there, although Free State troops claim that the building was mined. 20 Free State soldiers are maimed in the blast. O'Malley surrenders the Four Courts when Oscar Traynor sends word that he cannot break through to help them. Members of the IRA Army Executive Liam Mellows, Rory O'Connor, Joe McKelvey and Dick Barret are among the prisoners, but O'Malley himself escapes. - A Free State column under Commandant General Sweeney breaks up Anti-Treaty units in County Donegal. There are fire fights at LetterkennyLetterkennyLetterkenny , with a population of 17,568, is the largest town in County Donegal, part of the Province of Ulster in Ireland. The town is located on the River Swilly...
, Buncrana and BundoranBundoranBundoran is a town in County Donegal, part of the Province of Ulster in the north of Ireland. The town is located on the N15 road near Ballyshannon, 3 hours drive from Dublin and around two and a quarter hours drive from Belfast...
. Casualties are reported, including at least one irregular killed and 200 taken prisoner. - Anti-Treaty IRA fighters fire on National Army billets in Tralee, killing one soldier.
July
- 1 July – Free State troops take Republican outposts in the south of Dublin city and throw a cordon around their concentration on O'Connell street.Republican outposts at the Swan Hotel on Aungier street and at Harcourt Road and Adelaide Road are cleared by National Army troops equipped with armoured cars and artillery. About 400 Anti-Treaty prisoners are taken in the operation.
- Anti-Treaty IRA in County Sligo ambush National Army troops at Carrigarat.
- 2 July – In Dublin, the Republican garrison of thirty men in Moran's hotel on the corner of Gardiner street and Talbot street surrender after being shelled at close range by artillery.
- Fighting breaks out in Boyle, County RoscommonBoyle, County RoscommonBoyle is a town in County Roscommon, Ireland. It is located at the foot of the Curlew Mountains near Lough Key in the north of the county. Carrowkeel Megalithic Cemetery, the Drumanone Dolmen and the popular fishing lakes of Lough Arrow and Lough Gara are also close by...
, when Republicans attack Free State held buildings. Casualties include National Army officer Michael Dockery. Fighting continues in Boyle for three more days. - 3 July – Free State soldiers take the side streets around O'Connell street in Dublin, isolating the Republican held buildings there. They also detonate a bomb under the YMCA building held by Republicans, leaving just Oscar Traynor and a little over 100 men holding out in a "Block" of buildings at the northeastern corner of O'Connell street. Traynor evacuates most of his men, leaving just 15 in the "block" under Cathal Brugha. Casualties so far in Dublin are reported as 49 killed and 178 wounded, including combatants, civilians and one British soldier. 400 Republicans are reported taken prisoner
- A National Army officer is shot dead in NenaghNenaghNenagh is the county town of North Tipperary in Ireland. It is the administrative centre of North Tipperary and in 2011 it had a recorded population of 7,995. It is a civil parish in the historical barony of Ormond Lower...
, County TipperaryCounty TipperaryCounty Tipperary is a county of Ireland. It is located in the province of Munster and is named after the town of Tipperary. The area of the county does not have a single local authority; local government is split between two authorities. In North Tipperary, part of the Mid-West Region, local...
, causing the Free State troops to attack Republican held positions in the town. The Republicans retreat, burning the barracks they were holding. - 4 July – Frank AikenFrank AikenFrank Aiken was a commander of the Irish Republican Army and later an Irish politician. A founding-member of Fianna Fáil, Aiken was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1923 and at each subsequent election until 1973...
, writes to Richard MulcahyRichard MulcahyRichard James Mulcahy was an Irish politician, army general and commander in chief, leader of Fine Gael and Cabinet Minister...
stating the Fourth Northern Division of the IRA would stay neutral, called for an end to the fighting and for the removal of the Oath of Allegiance (Ireland)Oath of Allegiance (Ireland)The Irish Oath of Allegiance was a controversial provision in the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, which Irish TDs and Senators were required to take, in order to take their seats in Dáil Éireann and Seanad Éireann .-Text of the Oath:The Oath was included in Article 17 of the Irish Free State's 1922...
from the Free State Constitution. - In Dublin, Free State troops bring up a field gun to Henry street, within 100 metres of the remaining republican held positions to fire on them at point blank range. Incendiary bombs are also thrown into the "block", which is set ablaze.
- Ernie O'Malley and 250 Anti-Treaty fighters take EnniscorthyEnniscorthyEnniscorthy is the second largest town in County Wexford, Ireland. The population of the town and environs is 9538. The Placenames Database of Ireland sheds no light on the origins of the town's name. It may refer either to the "Island of Corthaidh" or the "Island of Rocks". With a history going...
in County Wexford after some fighting. They take the Free State garrison there captive but release them on condition that they do not fight again against Republicans. Seán MoylanSeán MoylanSeán Moylan was a Commandant of the Irish Republican Army and later a Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil politician...
and 230 republican troops occupy New RossNew RossNew Ross is a town located in southwest County Wexford, in the southeast of Ireland. In 2006 it had a population of 7,709 people, making it the third largest town in the county after Wexford and Enniscorthy.-History:...
.
- A large Free State force takes Drogheda, County LouthCounty LouthCounty Louth is a county of Ireland. It is part of the Border Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Louth. Louth County Council is the local authority for the county...
. The republicans are based in Millmount FortMillmount FortMillmount Fort, is a large 19th century Martello tower located in Drogheda in County Louth, Ireland. Built in 1808, it is one of a series of Martello towers erected by the British in expectation of a possible invasion of Ireland by Napoleon. Built upon a huge mound, it is visible from most parts...
, which overlooks the town and also hold the railway station. National Army troops bring up mortars and 18 pounder guns to shell them. After several hours of bombardment, the Anti-Treaty fighters surrender. There is also some fighting at the railway station in the town, which again ends in the surrender of the republicans. - Free State troops from the Curragh attack the Republican post at Ballymore EustaceBallymore EustaceBallymore Eustace is a small town situated in County Kildare in Ireland, although until 1836 it lay within a "pocket" of County Dublin...
, County Kildare but are beaten off with 3 killed and 8 wounded. - 5 July – End of the fighting in Dublin The remainder of Oscar Traynor's Anti-Treaty force in O'Connell street either slips away or surrenders. Republican leader Cathal BrughaCathal BrughaCathal Brugha was an Irish revolutionary and politician, active in the Easter Rising, Irish War of Independence, and the Irish Civil War and was the first Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann.-Background:...
is killed outside the Hamman hotel. Anti-Treaty Dublin forces re-group in BlessingtonBlessingtonBlessington, historically known as Ballycomeen , is a town in County Wicklow, Ireland. It is located on the N81 road, which connects Dublin to Tullow.- History :...
. - The fighting In Dublin has cost sixty-five combatants killed, of whom 16 are government troops and 49 are Anti-Treaty IRA men, and 280 wounded of whom 122 are Free State soldiers and 158 are Republicans. The civilian casualties are thought to comprise over 250 killed and injured.
- Republicans abandon Boyle in Roscommon when Seán Mac EoinSeán Mac EoinSeán Mac Eoin was an Irish Fine Gael politician and soldier. He was commonly referred to as the "Blacksmith of Ballinalee".-Early life:...
arrives with Free State troops and an 18 pounder gun. - A battle takes place in AbbeyleixAbbeyleixAbbeyleix is a town in County Laois, Ireland about from Portlaoise and located on the N77 national secondary route. Formerly the N8 National Primary Route ran through the centre of the town, making Abbeyleix an infamous bottleneck on the Dublin-Cork corridor with up to 15,000 vehicles passing...
, County LaoisCounty LaoisCounty Laois is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Midlands Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It was formerly known as Queen's County until the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922. The county's name was formerly spelt as Laoighis and Leix. Laois County Council...
. Vol. Christopher McGlynn of the Free State army is killed by a snipers bullet. - A firefight takes place between 200 Free State troops and 30 Anti-Treaty fighters at Curraghtown, County Meath. One man on either side is killed before a priest arranges a truce and the republicans surrender. They are held in Trim and Dundalk gaols.
- 6 July – A Free State expeditionary force is sent to County Wexford to re-take the towns there. It comprises 230 men under Colonel Commandant Keogh, with one field gun and four armoured vehicles.
- 6 July – Two Anti-Treaty fighters are killed in a skirmish outside a pub in UrlingfordUrlingfordUrlingford is a town in the barony of Galmoy, County Kilkenny, Ireland.The town lies on the R639. The M8 motorway runs just west of the town, from which both Urlingford and nearby Johnstown are accessed via junction four. Urlingford is a bus hub, with major operator JJ Kavanagh and Sons based there...
. - 7 July – Free State troops move south from Dublin and break up the Anti-Treaty concentration at BlessingtonBlessingtonBlessington, historically known as Ballycomeen , is a town in County Wicklow, Ireland. It is located on the N81 road, which connects Dublin to Tullow.- History :...
. They take 60 republican prisoners at BrittasBrittas, DublinBrittas is a village in South County Dublin just north of the border with County Wicklow on the N81 road. It is in the foothills of the Dublin Mountains and lies just 15 minutes drive from the remote outskirts of Dublin City....
and 13 more at Ballymore EustaceBallymore EustaceBallymore Eustace is a small town situated in County Kildare in Ireland, although until 1836 it lay within a "pocket" of County Dublin...
. Oscar Traynor and the main Anti-Treaty force from Dublin abandons Blessington. In exchanges of fire, one man on either side is killed and two Free State troops are wounded. - Pro-Treaty forces take GalwayGalwayGalway or City of Galway is a city in County Galway, Republic of Ireland. It is the sixth largest and the fastest-growing city in Ireland. It is also the third largest city within the Republic and the only city in the Province of Connacht. Located on the west coast of Ireland, it sits on the...
, with minimal resistance. One Anti-Treaty IRA captain, Donnellan is killed, five of his men are wounded and 12 captured before Free State troops secure the area. The remaining republican fighters set fire to a number of public buildings before fleeing the city. The National Army takes two killed and more wounded in the operation. - 8 July – The Republicans in Wexford abandon Enniscorthy and New Ross.
- 11 July – Fighting breaks out in LimerickLimerickLimerick is the third largest city in the Republic of Ireland, and the principal city of County Limerick and Ireland's Mid-West Region. It is the fifth most populous city in all of Ireland. When taking the extra-municipal suburbs into account, Limerick is the third largest conurbation in the...
between Pro and Anti-Treaty factions. National Army troops open fire on the Republicans holding the Ordnance Barracks. - A Free State soldier is killed in an ambush at Drumkeen, County Donegal.
- 12 July – 13 Republicans are taken prisoner in fighting in Limerick city.
- Anti-Treaty forces capture 47 Free State troops in east County LimerickCounty LimerickIt is thought that humans had established themselves in the Lough Gur area of the county as early as 3000 BC, while megalithic remains found at Duntryleague date back further to 3500 BC...
. - Free State troops secure Maryborough after a four hour gun battle. Three Anti-Treatyites are killed and two Free State soldiers wounded.
- 13 July – Republicans take the Free State outpost, the Munster Tavern, in Limerick, but are driven back by armoured cars.
- Anti-Treaty IRA Mayo unit ambushes Pro-Treaty men at Rockwood, County Sligo, killing five, wounding four and capturing two armoured cars. They then occupy CollooneyCollooney-Transport:Collooney is located just off the N4 and N17 roads, having been bypassed twice, by the N4 in 1998, and the N17 in 1992, and is the meeting point of both roads. The town was a significant railway centre, with no less than three railway stations...
. - One Free State soldier is killed and one fatally wounded in an ambush in Stranarlor, Donegal.
- A Free State column of 16 is ambushed, taken prisoner and disarmed in County Clare.
- 14 July – Seán Mac Eoin and 400 Free State troops re-take Collooney, after an artillery bombardment and protracted fire-fight, taking 74 Republican prisoners. Only one man is killed, however, an Anti-Treaty IRA fighter.
- 15 July – National Army troops assault republican-held Strand BarracksStrand BarracksThe Strand Barracks is the former army barracks on Clancy's Strand in Limerick City, Ireland.-1774 to 1800s:The barracks dates from the 18th century, founded in 1774, and lies on the banks of the River Shannon...
and King John's Castle in Limerick, with armoured cars, grenades, machine gun and mortarMortar (weapon)A mortar is an indirect fire weapon that fires explosive projectiles known as bombs at low velocities, short ranges, and high-arcing ballistic trajectories. It is typically muzzle-loading and has a barrel length less than 15 times its caliber....
fire, but fail to take them. Six Free State troops are killed and five wounded. One Republican is killed and five wounded.
- A skirmish takes place in KiltimaghKiltimagh' is a town in County Mayo, Ireland. It was referred to in the popular Irish song 'Horse it into ya Cynthia' by Conal Gallen.-Transport:The rail link is closed, but is pending re-opening as part of the Western Railway Corridor. Kiltimagh railway station opened on 1 October 1895 and finally closed...
, County Mayo. Anti-Treaty fighters attempt to kidnap T. Ruane, Chairman of the SwinfordSwinfordSwinford, historically called Swineford , is a town in County Mayo, Ireland. It is surrounded by the settlements of Midfield, Meelick, Culmore, Cloonaghboy, Killasser and other villages. It is on the N5 road, located 18 km from Ireland West Airport Knock...
District Council, but a fire-fight breaks out in which Ruane, an Anti-Treaty officer and Free State officer are fatally wounded. - National Army troops surround and take Cappard House, County Laois where the local Anti-Treaty forces were billeted. Five Republicans are reported killed.
- A Free State soldier is killed in an ambush at GortGortGort is a town in south County Galway in the west of Ireland. An Gort is the official Irish name for the town, as defined by the Placenames Commission. In spoken Irish, however, the town is known by its traditional name Gort Inse Guaire. It lies just north of the border with County Clare on the...
, County Galway. - 16 July – Free State troops take Frank AikenFrank AikenFrank Aiken was a commander of the Irish Republican Army and later an Irish politician. A founding-member of Fianna Fáil, Aiken was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1923 and at each subsequent election until 1973...
, who was previously neutral, along with 3-400 of his men from the Fourth Northern Division of the Irish Republican ArmyFourth Northern Division of the Irish Republican ArmyThe Fourth Northern Division of the Irish Republican Army operated in an area covering parts of counties Louth, Armagh, Monaghan, and Down. Frank Aiken was commander and Padraig Quinn was the quartermaster general. John McCoy was Adjutant General for the division; after he was shot and captured by...
, prisoner in DundalkDundalkDundalk is the county town of County Louth in Ireland. It is situated where the Castletown River flows into Dundalk Bay. The town is close to the border with Northern Ireland and equi-distant from Dublin and Belfast. The town's name, which was historically written as Dundalgan, has associations...
. Two of Aiken's men are killed. - 17 July – Free State general Eoin O'DuffyEoin O'DuffyEoin O'Duffy was in succession a Teachta Dála , the Chief of Staff of the Irish Republican Army , the second Commissioner of the Garda Síochána, leader of the Army Comrades Association and then the first leader of Fine Gael , before leading the Irish Brigade to fight for Francisco Franco during...
arrives in Limerick with 1,500 National Army troops, 4 armoured cars and one 18 pounder field gun. - Two Anti-Treaty fighters are killed in two separate ambushes in County Kildare.
- In Galway, the funeral of a soldier killed on the 15th is fired on by republicans, a battalion commandant, Rooney, is killed.
- 18 July – Free State general John T. ProutJohn T. ProutJohn T. Prout was an Irish American soldier. He held one of the senior commands in the Irish Army during the Irish Civil War...
arrives in WaterfordWaterfordWaterford is a city in the South-East Region of Ireland. It is the oldest city in the country and fifth largest by population. Waterford City Council is the local government authority for the city and its immediate hinterland...
with 700 troops, one artillery piece and four armoured cars to take the city. His second in command is deposed East Waterford Brigade Commandant Paddy Paul.The Anti-Treaty IRA garrison consists of 2-300 men under George LennonGeorge LennonGeorge Lennon was an Irish Republican Army leader during the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War. In later years he became a dedicated pacifist.IRA career=...
, Flying Column Leader. The combined Waterford Brigade is under the overall command of Pax Whelan. Prout sets up his gun on Mount Misery (Mercy) and bombards Republican held positions along the River Suir in the city, forcing them to eventually evacuate the military barracks and the post office. - 19 July – Fall of Limerick. Free State forces capture the Ordnance Barracks and Castle Barracks in Limerick. The Republicans burn the remaining two barracks they are holding and retreat southwards. Fighting in Limerick has cost the lives of six Free State soldiers and 12 civilians, with a further 87 wounded. The press reports about thirty Anti-Treaty IRA men killed but a recent studies puts their fatalities at just five.
- An 8-man Free State foot patrol is ambushed at Ballinasloe, Galway, one soldier is killed.
- 20 July – Fall of Waterford Captain Ned O'Brien leads 100 National Army troops in boats in an attack on the quays in Waterford, taking 12 prisoners. Free State troops then cross the river Suir into the city. General Prout brings their field gun down to the Suir Ferry bank to fire at close range into the Anti-Treaty held Post Office, which then surrenders. The Republicans abandon Ballybricken Prison on Friday afternoon the 21st of July escaping to Mt. Congreve in Kilmeadan, the Comeraghs and eventually, Dungarvan where many men of the Flying Column give up the struggle. Lennon resigns 1 August in a letter to First Division O/C Liam DeasyLiam DeasyLiam Deasy was an Irish Republican Army officer in the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War of the 1920s.Deasy was born in Bandon in County Cork in 1898....
citing disagreements over "tactics employed by our side". Two Free State soldiers have been killed in the fighting in Waterford and 19 wounded. At least one Anti-Treaty fighter is fatally wounded. Five civilians are also killed. - 23 July – Free State troops under General W.R.E. MurphyW.R.E. MurphyWilliam Richard English Murphy known as W.R.E. Murphy was an Irish soldier and policeman. He served as an officer with the British Army in the First World War and later in the Irish Army in the Irish Civil War. In the Civil War he was second in overall command of the National Army from January to...
take BruffBruffBruff is a town in east County Limerick, in the midwest of Ireland, located on the old Limerick–Cork road . The town lies on the Morning Star river, with two bridges in the town itself...
and KilmallockKilmallockKilmallock or Kilmalloc is a town in south County Limerick, Ireland, near the border with County Cork. There is a Dominican Priory in the town and King's Castle . The remains of medieval walls which encircled the settlement are still visible. The Dublin–Cork railway line passes by the town,...
in County LimerickCounty LimerickIt is thought that humans had established themselves in the Lough Gur area of the county as early as 3000 BC, while megalithic remains found at Duntryleague date back further to 3500 BC...
. See Battle of KilmallockBattle of KilmallockThe Battle of Kilmallock took place between 25 July and 5 August 1922 in County Limerick. It was one of the largest engagements of the Irish Civil War.... - 24 July – Republican fighters under Liam DeasyLiam DeasyLiam Deasy was an Irish Republican Army officer in the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War of the 1920s.Deasy was born in Bandon in County Cork in 1898....
re-take Bruff and take 76 Free State prisoners. - Naval landing of 400 Free State troops at Clew BayClew BayClew Bay is a natural ocean bay in County Mayo, Ireland. It contains Ireland's best example of sunken drumlins. According to tradition, there is an island in the bay for every day of the year. The bay is overlooked by Croagh Patrick, Ireland's holy mountain, and the mountains of North Mayo. Clare...
, County MayoCounty MayoCounty Mayo is a county in Ireland. It is located in the West Region and is also part of the province of Connacht. It is named after the village of Mayo, which is now generally known as Mayo Abbey. Mayo County Council is the local authority for the county. The population of the county is 130,552...
. They link up with National Army troops advancing from CastlebarCastlebarCastlebar is the county town of, and at the centre of, County Mayo in Ireland. It is Mayo's largest town by population. The town's population exploded in the late 1990s, increasing by one-third in just six years, though this massive growth has slowed down greatly in recent years...
under Seán Mac EoinSeán Mac EoinSeán Mac Eoin was an Irish Fine Gael politician and soldier. He was commonly referred to as the "Blacksmith of Ballinalee".-Early life:...
and take WestportWestport, County MayoWestport is a town in County Mayo, Ireland. It is situated on the west coast at the south-east corner of Clew Bay, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean....
from the Anti-Treaty forces there. - Anti-Treaty IRA fighters ambush a prison train KillurinKillurinKillurin is a village in County Wexford, Ireland on the R730 regional road. Sited along the banks of the River Slaney, it is approximately 7 miles north-west of Wexford town.-Castle:...
, County WexfordCounty WexfordCounty Wexford is a county in Ireland. It is part of the South-East Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Wexford. In pre-Norman times it was part of the Kingdom of Uí Cheinnselaig, whose capital was at Ferns. Wexford County Council is the local...
, freeing its prisoners, 2 Free State soldiers are killed and 7 wounded. - Two civilians are shot dead in Dublin when Republican fighters rob a public house.
- Two girl civilians are shot dead another man critically wounded by Northern Ireland forces along the border with the Free State, near NewryNewryNewry is a city in Northern Ireland. The River Clanrye, which runs through the city, formed the historic border between County Armagh and County Down. It is from Belfast and from Dublin. Newry had a population of 27,433 at the 2001 Census, while Newry and Mourne Council Area had a population...
. They had failed to stop when challenged. - Two Free State soldiers are killed in Galway, when the car they were driving crashes into a tree laid across the road.
- 25 July – Republican fighters attack a lorry full of Free State troops at York Street, central Dublin with small arms and grenades. Six civilians are wounded and two men are arrested.
- 26 July – Free State troops, 350 men under Jerry Ryan, take GoldenGolden, County TipperaryGolden is a village in South Tipperary in Ireland. The village is situated on the River Suir. It is located between the towns of Cashel and Tipperary on the N74 road. In older times the village was known as Goldenbridge...
, County TipperaryCounty TipperaryCounty Tipperary is a county of Ireland. It is located in the province of Munster and is named after the town of Tipperary. The area of the county does not have a single local authority; local government is split between two authorities. In North Tipperary, part of the Mid-West Region, local...
. - 27 July – Anti-Treaty IRA under Padraig QuinnPadraig QuinnPádraig Ó Cuinn was an Irish Republican Army Quartermaster General in the Fourth Northern Division in the Irish War of Independence....
attack DundalkDundalkDundalk is the county town of County Louth in Ireland. It is situated where the Castletown River flows into Dundalk Bay. The town is close to the border with Northern Ireland and equi-distant from Dublin and Belfast. The town's name, which was historically written as Dundalgan, has associations...
, dynamiteDynamiteDynamite is an explosive material based on nitroglycerin, initially using diatomaceous earth , or another absorbent substance such as powdered shells, clay, sawdust, or wood pulp. Dynamites using organic materials such as sawdust are less stable and such use has been generally discontinued...
the prison wall and in fifteen minutes the well-timed operation results in the freeing of republican prisoners, including Frank Aiken. In an ambush at nearby CCastletown Cross, two Free State soldiers are wounded, one fatally. - 2 Free State soldiers were killed in ambushes in Galway and 2 more in another ambush in GlentiesGlentiesGlenties is a village in the northwest of Ireland in central County Donegal. It is situated where two glens meet, northwest of the Blue Stack Mountains, near the confluence of two rivers. Glenties is the largest centre of population in the parish of Iniskeel...
in Donegal. - Oscar Traynor, commander of the Anti-Treaty IRA's Dublin Brigade, is arrested by Free State troops in Dublin.
- Three National Army soldiers were killed in fighting near Kilmallock. Republican casualties were not reported.
- 28 July – Ambush of National Army troops by Anti-Treaty IRA at Tonduff, AbbeyleixAbbeyleixAbbeyleix is a town in County Laois, Ireland about from Portlaoise and located on the N77 national secondary route. Formerly the N8 National Primary Route ran through the centre of the town, making Abbeyleix an infamous bottleneck on the Dublin-Cork corridor with up to 15,000 vehicles passing...
, on the main road to Maryborough, County LaoisCounty LaoisCounty Laois is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Midlands Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It was formerly known as Queen's County until the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922. The county's name was formerly spelt as Laoighis and Leix. Laois County Council...
. A mine is exploded and fire is exchanged, Vol. Grace from Mountrath is killed while retrieving his rifle from the road. Brigadier Mick Gray is wounded. In the rounding up operation, 21 Republicans are taken prisoner but two Free State officers, Comdt. General Austin McCurtin and Comdt. Seán (Jack) Collison are killed. - Two Free State soldiers are killed in an ambush on the road from Killorglin to Tralee in Kerry.
- 29 July – About 400 Republicans attack Golden, Tipperary, but fail to take it and two of their men are killed. Their armoured car is knocked out by artillery and the National Army takes 26 prisoners.
- 30 July – Free State troops take BrureeBrureeBruree is a village in south-eastern County Limerick, Ireland, on the River Maigue. It takes its name from the nearby ancient royal fortress, the alternative name of which from the earliest times into the High Middle Ages was Dún Eochair Maigue or the Fortress on the Brink of the Maigue.- History...
, County Limerick. The Dublin GuardDublin GuardThe Dublin Guard was a unit of the Irish Republican Army, in the Irish War of Independence and then of the Irish National Army during the Irish Civil War 1922-23.-Foundation:...
supported by artillery, attacks the village for five hours before the Anti-Treaty IRA retreats. At least 13 Free State soldiers and 9 Anti-Treaty fighters are killed in the action and more are wounded. - Two Free State soldiers are killed in a skirmish in Mayo.
- 31 July – Anti-Treaty activist Harry BolandHarry BolandHarry Boland was an Irish Republican politician and member of the First Dáil.-Early life:Boland was born in Phibsboro, Dublin on 27 April 1887. He was active in GAA circles in early life, and ultimately joined the Irish Republican Brotherhood...
is shot by Free State troops as he is being arrested in SkerriesSkerries, Dublin-The 20th century and today:Historically, Skerries has been a thriving fishing port and a major center of hand embroidery. In the late 20th century, it became a resort town , and another suburb for commuters to the city of Dublin....
, near Dublin. He dies on August 2. - Free State troops under Paddy O'ConnorPaddy O'ConnorPatrick Francis O'Connor , was a Major League Baseball player who played catcher from -. He would play for the Pittsburgh Pirates, St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees, and Pittsburgh Rebels.-External links:...
attack Republican held TipperaryTipperaryTipperary is a town and a civil parish in South Tipperary in Ireland. Its population was 4,415 at the 2006 census. It is also an ecclesiastical parish in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly, and is in the historical barony of Clanwilliam....
town. Fighting continues for two days in which four Free State troops are killed and three wounded. Forty Four Republican prisoners are taken. - Free State general Seán Mac Eoin reports to Michael Collins, “In the Midlands Divisions all posts and positions of military value are in our hands.”
- Late July – Anti-Treaty IRA in Dublin ambushes and destroys an armoured train in InchicoreInchicore-Location and access:Located five kilometres due west of the city centre, Inchicore lies south of the River Liffey, west of Kilmainham, north of Drimnagh and east of Ballyfermot. The majority of Inchicore is in the Dublin 8 postal district...
. - Anti-Treaty IRA in Raheen, County Limerick ambushes Free State troops – 2 Colonels killed; 2nd Lt Michael Joe CostelloMichael Joe CostelloMichael Joseph Costello was an Irish military leader.-Biography:Costello was born on 4 July 1904 in Cloughjordan, County Tipperary. His godfather was Thomas MacDonagh, who signed the Proclamation of the Irish Republic in 1916...
and another officer turn ambush which results in capture of 30 of ambushers. Costello is promoted by Michael Collins to Colonel-Commandant at the age of 18. - Two Free State troops are killed in an ambush at Sugnagillow, Donegal. Another two are killed near NewportNewportNewport is a city and unitary authority area in Wales. Standing on the banks of the River Usk, it is located about east of Cardiff and is the largest urban area within the historic county boundaries of Monmouthshire and the preserved county of Gwent...
, County Mayo.
August
- 2 August – Naval Landing of Free State troops in County KerryCounty KerryKerry means the "people of Ciar" which was the name of the pre-Gaelic tribe who lived in part of the present county. The legendary founder of the tribe was Ciar, son of Fergus mac Róich. In Old Irish "Ciar" meant black or dark brown, and the word continues in use in modern Irish as an adjective...
. Paddy Daly and the Dublin Guard, as well as others, a total of about 800, land at FenitFenitFenit is a small village in County Kerry, Ireland, located on north side of Tralee Bay about west of Tralee town, just south of the Shannon Estuary. The bay is enclosed from the Atlantic by the Maharee spit which extends northwards from the Dingle peninsula...
. They fight their way to Tralee at a cost of 9 killed and 35 wounded. Two Republican fighters are killed in the fighting and more are wounded. The remainder retreat. - Republican forces under Liam Deasy attack Bruree, County Limerick with three armoured cars, trying to re-take it from the Free State troops but their attack is beaten off.
- Republicans abandon Tipperary town and retreat to ClonmelClonmelClonmel is the county town of South Tipperary in Ireland. It is the largest town in the county. While the borough had a population of 15,482 in 2006, another 17,008 people were in the rural hinterland. The town is noted in Irish history for its resistance to the Cromwellian army which sacked both...
; it is then occupied by National Army troops under Paddy O'Connor. - Fighting around Carrick on Suir between 600 National Army troops under General Prout and 400 Republicans under Dan BreenDan BreenDaniel "Dan" Breen was a volunteer in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War. In later years, he was a Fianna Fáil politician.-Background:...
. - 3 August – The Free State forces under General Prout take Carrick on Suir with one man killed and three wounded. Breen's men retreat southwards.
- National Army commandant Scally is killed in an ambush by Anti-Treaty IRA men between SwinfordSwinfordSwinford, historically called Swineford , is a town in County Mayo, Ireland. It is surrounded by the settlements of Midfield, Meelick, Culmore, Cloonaghboy, Killasser and other villages. It is on the N5 road, located 18 km from Ireland West Airport Knock...
and BallinaBallina, County MayoBallina is a large town in north County Mayo in Ireland. It lies at the mouth of the River Moy near Killala Bay, in the Moy valley and Parish of Kilmoremoy, with the Ox Mountain range to the east and the Nephin Beg mountains to the west...
in Mayo. - Around 250 pro-treaty IRA men from County ClareCounty Clare-History:There was a Neolithic civilisation in the Clare area — the name of the peoples is unknown, but the Prehistoric peoples left evidence behind in the form of ancient dolmen; single-chamber megalithic tombs, usually consisting of three or more upright stones...
are embarked from KilrushKilrushKilrush is a coastal town in County Clare, Ireland. It is located near the mouth of the River Shannon in the south-west of the county. Kilrush is a town of great historical significance, being one of the listed Heritage Towns of Ireland.-History:...
to Tarbert in fishing boats and take BallylongfordBallylongfordBallylongford is a village near Listowel in north County Kerry, Ireland.-Geography:The village is situated at the top of a creek of Ballylongford Bay on the tidal estuary of the River Shannon, close to Carrigafoyle Island and on the coast road between Tarbert and the seaside town of...
and Listowel. - 4 August – Republican troops abandon Cashel, County TipperaryCashel, County TipperaryCashel is a town in South Tipperary in Ireland. Its population was 2936 at the 2006 census. The town gives its name to the ecclesiastical province of Cashel. Additionally, the cathedra of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly was originally in the town prior to the English Reformation....
. - 4 August – 150 Free State troops under Paddy DalyPaddy DalyPaddy Daly sometimes referred to as Paddy O'Daly, served in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence and subsequently held the rank of Major-General in the Irish National Army in the period 1922 to 1924.-Easter Rising:...
take CastleislandCastleislandCastleisland is a town and commercial centre in County Kerry in south west Ireland. The town is renowned for the width of its main street. Castleisland has a population of 2,170....
, County Kerry. The Republicans abandon their positions after six shrapnel shells are fired at them from an 18-pounder field gun. - Three Free State soldiers, including two commandants, Collison and McCurtain, are killed in a mine and gun attack on a troop lorry.
- 5 August – About 2,000 Free State troops under Eoin O'Duffy take KilmallockKilmallockKilmallock or Kilmalloc is a town in south County Limerick, Ireland, near the border with County Cork. There is a Dominican Priory in the town and King's Castle . The remains of medieval walls which encircled the settlement are still visible. The Dublin–Cork railway line passes by the town,...
, County Limerick. The Republicans retreat towards CharlevilleCharleville, County CorkCharleville or Ráth Luirc is a town in north County Cork, Ireland, situated in Ireland's Golden Vale, near the border with County Limerick. It is located on the "Glen" tributary river, which flows into the Maigue River in Co. Limerick...
. - Free State Intelligence officers discover from captured the Anti-Treaty officer Liam Clarke that Republicans have planned to destroy all the bridges leading into Dublin. As a result, they capture 104 Anti-Treaty fighters in the act in north County DublinCounty DublinCounty Dublin is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Dublin Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the city of Dublin which is the capital of Ireland. County Dublin was one of the first of the parts of Ireland to be shired by King John of England following the...
, including their officer Pat Sweeney, crippling the remnants of the Anti-Treaty IRA in Dublin. - A National Army soldier is killed by sniper at Tralee, Kerry.
- 6 August – Anti-Treaty IRA fighters ambush a Free State provisions column at Knockeen crossroads in Kerry. One National Army officer is killed and several privates are wounded.
- 7 August – Heavy fighting takes place at Newcastlewest, County Limerick. Free State troops, advancing from RathkealeRathkealeRathkeale is a town in west County Limerick, Ireland. It is located 30 km southwest of Limerick city on the N21 road to Tralee, and lies on the River Deel. Rathkeale has a significant Irish Traveller population....
, take the town with armoured cars and infantry supported by artillery. During the 12 hour battle, a party of republicans is caught in machine gun fire from one of the Free State armoured cars, taking many casualties. The Republican headquarters is shelled by field guns and they eventually retreat along the Cork road. Press reports say that 12 Anti-Treaty fighters are killed in the action. National Army casualties are reported as, 'less than those of the irregulars.' - 7 August – Joe Hudson, Glasthule, Dun Laoire is shot dead in his Garden at the same address by Free State Army officer.
- 8 August – Free State seaborne landings take place in County CorkCounty CorkCounty Cork is a county in Ireland. It is located in the South-West Region and is also part of the province of Munster. It is named after the city of Cork . Cork County Council is the local authority for the county...
. Emmet DaltonEmmet DaltonEmmet Dalton was an Irish soldier and film producer. He served in the British Army in the First World War, reaching the rank of Major. However, on his return to Ireland he became one of the senior figures in the Dublin Brigade of the guerrilla Irish Republican Army which fought against British...
and 800 troops, with two artillery pieces and armoured cars, land at Passage WestPassage WestPassage West is a port town in County Cork, Ireland, situated on the west bank of Cork Harbour. It is some 10 km from Cork city, separated by the green belt from the urban sprawl of Douglas and Rochestown. The town has many services, amenities and social outlets...
. A further 200 men are put ashore at YoughalYoughalYoughal is a town in County Cork, Ireland. Sitting on the estuary of the River Blackwater, in the past it was militarily and economically important. Being built on the edge of a steep riverbank, the town has a distinctive long and narrow layout...
and 180 troops land at GlandoreGlandoreGlandore |Cork]] city.The village has several pubs, with traditional music. It is a very popular holiday destination for Irish holiday makers in particular. Famous homeowners include Margaret Jay, former leader of the House of Lords, and Tony O'Reilly. The village yacht club's official headquarters...
. Heavy fighting takes place at RochestownRochestownRochestown is situated between Passage West and Douglas in County Cork, Ireland.Rochestown consists of Mount Oval, Foxwood, Jamesmont and many other housing estates. There is also a catholic church , two schools st Patricks and Rochestown college and a junior c gaa team...
in Cork, as 200 Anti-Treaty troops try to block the Free State advance on Cork City. Nine National Army and seven Republicans are killed before the Free State troops secure the area. - 9 August – There is fighting at DouglasDouglas, CorkDouglas or Duglas is an area of Cork city, Ireland. As its borders are ill-defined and it straddles the boundary between Cork City and County Cork, it is difficult to ascertain the exact population. The CSO gives a figure of 18,192 for the parts of Douglas that lie within Cork County...
County Cork. The Free State troops take 36 republican prisoners. - A National Army soldier is killed in ambush at Ferrycarrig, Wexford.
- General Prout's Free State column takes Redmondstown, County Kilkenny, with the aid of artillery.
- 10 August – The Republicans abandon Cork city and burn the barracks they had been holding, including Charles FortCharles Fort (Ireland)Charles Fort is a star fort located on the water's edge, at the southern end of the village of Summer Cove, on Kinsale harbour, County Cork, Ireland. James' Fort is located on the other side of the harbour....
. The National Army takes the city unopposed. - General Prout's Free State troops take ClonmelClonmelClonmel is the county town of South Tipperary in Ireland. It is the largest town in the county. While the borough had a population of 15,482 in 2006, another 17,008 people were in the rural hinterland. The town is noted in Irish history for its resistance to the Cromwellian army which sacked both...
. - 11 August – Liam Lynch, the Anti-Treaty IRA's Chief of Staff, abandons FermoyFermoyFermoy is a town in County Cork, Ireland. It is situated on the River Blackwater in the south of Ireland. Its population is some 5,800 inhabitants, environs included ....
, the last major republican held town. Lynch issues orders that Republican forces are to abandon the policy of holding towns, and orders them to form flying columns and pursue guerrilla warfare. End of the war's conventional phase. - A Free State Naval landing takes place at KenmareKenmareKenmare is a small town in the south of County Kerry, Ireland. The name Kenmare is the anglicised form of Ceann Mara meaning "head of the sea", referring to the head of Kenmare Bay.-Location:...
. Commandant Tom "Scarteen" O'Connor (formerly local IRA commander) lands unopposed with 200 pro-treaty men and occupies Rathmore and MillstreetMillstreetMillstreet is a town in north County Cork, Ireland with a population of approximately 1,500. It is located at the foot of Clara Mountain. The town's Catholic church is dedicated to St. Patrick. Since October 1985, the town has been twinned with Pommerit-le-Vicomte in Brittany, France...
. Kerry operations in August have cost the National Army a total of 11 killed and 114 wounded. - 12 August – Free State President Arthur GriffithArthur GriffithArthur Griffith was the founder and third leader of Sinn Féin. He served as President of Dáil Éireann from January to August 1922, and was head of the Irish delegation at the negotiations in London that produced the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921.-Early life:...
dies of a stroke. He is replaced by William T. Cosgrave. - 14 August – 300 men of the Anti-Treaty IRA 4th Northern Division under Frank AikenFrank AikenFrank Aiken was a commander of the Irish Republican Army and later an Irish politician. A founding-member of Fianna Fáil, Aiken was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1923 and at each subsequent election until 1973...
attack DundalkDundalkDundalk is the county town of County Louth in Ireland. It is situated where the Castletown River flows into Dundalk Bay. The town is close to the border with Northern Ireland and equi-distant from Dublin and Belfast. The town's name, which was historically written as Dundalgan, has associations...
. They use two mines to breach the walls of the barracks and temporarily take over the town. Four Free State soldiers are killed and fifteen wounded, with two dead and thirty wounded on the Republican side. About 240 Republican prisoners are freed from the prison and 400 rifles are taken. However, Aiken does not try to hold the town and, while in possession of it, calls for a truce in a meeting in the town square. - 15 August – Free State troops take ClifdenClifdenClifden is a town on the coast of County Galway, Ireland and being Connemara's largest town, it is often referred to as "the Capital of Connemara". It is located on the Owenglen River where it flows into Clifden Bay...
in County GalwayCounty GalwayCounty Galway is a county in Ireland. It is located in the West Region and is also part of the province of Connacht. It is named after the city of Galway. Galway County Council is the local authority for the county. There are several strongly Irish-speaking areas in the west of the county...
without resistance. The Republicans abandon the town and burn the local radio transmitter station. - 17 August – Free State troops under Dan Hogan re-occupy Dundalk unopposed. One civilian is killed in the operation.
- Two unarmed National Army medics are shot dead bya sniper at Inisfallen, Kerry.
- 18 August – A lorry of Free State soldiers is ambushed between ClonmelClonmelClonmel is the county town of South Tipperary in Ireland. It is the largest town in the county. While the borough had a population of 15,482 in 2006, another 17,008 people were in the rural hinterland. The town is noted in Irish history for its resistance to the Cromwellian army which sacked both...
and CahirCahirCahir is a town in South Tipperary in Ireland. The town is best known for its castle and the Swiss Cottage. It is in the barony of Iffa and Offa West.-Location and access:...
, County Tipperary. Three National Army troops are killed and seven wounded. - 18 August – Anti-Treaty fighters attack the Free State barracks in MonaghanMonaghanMonaghan is the county town of County Monaghan in Ireland. Its population at the 2006 census stood at 7,811 . The town is located on the main road, the N2 road, from Dublin north to both Derry and Letterkenny.-Toponym:...
town. They are driven off after a half hour gun battle. One National Army lieutenant is killed and three Republicans are wounded. The Republicans also raid the post office in the town, and shoot dead a postman. They get away with £900. - Anti-Treaty IRA men attack a Free State patrol on Longford Street, Dublin, one civilian is killed and three more wounded.
- 19 August – There is a four hour gun battle on the border near Dundalk between pro and Anti-Treaty fighters. The republicans eventually retreat across the border into Northern Ireland where they cannot be followed. Elsewhere, there are renewed attacks on Free State troops in Dublin and the railway bridge at Carrick on Shannon is blown up and destroyed by Republicans.
- In Kerry, a Free State column is ambushed near Listowell, one soldier is shot dead.
- In Tipperary, a National Army soldier is shot dead when visiting his family.
- 20 August – A party of seven Free State troops is ambushed in a car heading from Liscarrol to KanturkKanturk-Transport:*Kanturk railway station opened on 1 April 1889, closed for passenger traffic on 27 January 1947 and finally closed altogether on 4 February 1963. Kanturk is however served by the nearby Banteer railway station.-People:...
, Cork. One National Army officer is killed, two others wounded and the remainder surrendered with their arms. - A lorry of Fre State soldiers is ambush at Blessington, Wicklow. One soldier is killed and five are wounded.
- 21 August – One Free State soldier is killed in an ambush at BlessingtonBlessingtonBlessington, historically known as Ballycomeen , is a town in County Wicklow, Ireland. It is located on the N81 road, which connects Dublin to Tullow.- History :...
, County WicklowCounty WicklowCounty Wicklow is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Mid-East Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Wicklow, which derives from the Old Norse name Víkingalág or Wykynlo. Wicklow County Council is the local authority for the county...
. Four more are wounded in an ambush near Enniscorthy, County Wexford. Free State troops occupy BandonBandon, County CorkBandon is a town in County Cork, Ireland. With a population of 5,822 as of census 2006, Bandon lies on the River Bandon between two hills. The name in Irish means "Bridge of the Bandon", a reference to the origin of the town as a crossing-point on the river. In 2004 Bandon celebrated its...
and DunmanwayDunmanwayDunmanway is a town in County Cork, in the southwest of Ireland. It is the geographical centre of the region known as West Cork. It is probably best known as the birthplace of Sam Maguire, an Irish Protestant republican, for whom the trophy of the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship is...
, County Cork without resistance. - 22 August – Two National Army soldiers are killed and three wounded in an ambush at Redmondstown, County Kilkenny on the road between Clonmel and Kilkenny. Free State commandant Frank ThorntonFrank ThorntonFrank Thornton is an English actor who is best known for playing Captain Peacock in Are You Being Served? and its sequel Grace & Favour and as Truly in Last of the Summer Wine.-Early life:...
is also badly wounded in the incident. Three other National Army officers had been captured by the irregulars in the same spot the previous night. - A Free State soldier is killed in an ambush of a convoy near Tralee.
- 22 August – National Army Commander-in-Chief Michael Collins is killed in an ambush by Anti-Treaty republicans at Béal na mBláthBéal na mBláthBéal na mBláth, officially Béal Átha na Bláiche , is a small village in County Cork, Ireland. Both Bláth or Bláiche are variations of the word bláthach, meaning literally "flowery" or "floral", or in this case "buttermilk"....
, near his family home in County Cork, he is the only fatality of the 45 minute fire fight. Richard MulcahyRichard MulcahyRichard James Mulcahy was an Irish politician, army general and commander in chief, leader of Fine Gael and Cabinet Minister...
takes over as National Army commander in chief. Collins had been pursuing talks with Anti-Treaty leaders Dan Breen, Liam Deasy and others in order to try to stop the fighting. His killing greatly embittered the war and probably prolonged it by several months. - The Criminal Investigation DepartmentCriminal Investigation Department (Ireland)The Criminal Investigation Department in the Irish Free State was an armed, plain-clothed counter-insurgency police unit that operated during the Irish Civil War. It was organised separately from the unarmed Civic Guard police force...
(CID), a police intelligence unit, is formed to 'be distinct from existing police forces with separate headquarters under direct control of the Minister for Home Affairs.' It was formed from members of the National Army and the Irish Republican PoliceIrish Republican PoliceThe Irish Republican Police was the police force of the 1919-1922 Irish Republic and was administered by the Department for Home Affairs of that government.-Foundation:...
and is based at Oriel HouseOriel House, Westland RowOriel House, Westland Row is a building at the intersection of Westland Row and Fenian Street in Dublin.It was the headquarters of Dunlop Rubber, and the address at which the original pneumatic tyre patent was draughted in 1893 'for the wheels of Velocipedes and other Vehicles'.During the Irish...
, Westland Row, Dublin. They consist initially of over 100 heavily armed men and later are 350 strong. Also thirty members of the Squad (a former IRA assassination unit) are established as the Protective Corps, also based at Oriel House, to afford protection to members of the Provisional Government. The Oriel House unit is effectively a counter-insurgency corps and is accused of the assassination of many republicans during the conflict. - A Free State soldier is killed in a raid on house at Kilcommin, Kerry.
- 25 August – A Free State CID Motor Driver is fatally wounded in an attack at Dean's Grange, Dublin.
- A Free State soldier is shot dead and a barracks burned at Shortcourse, Waterford.
- 26 August – A Free State convoy of 100 troops is ambushed between Tralee and KillorglinKillorglinKillorglin is a town in County Kerry, Ireland. It is located on the river Laune, which has a rowing club and a new boathouse. The population of Killorglin is 4,150 although this expands considerably during Puck Fair due to visitors and returning emigrants.Killorglin is a major activity centre...
, County Kerry. One officer is killed. The National Army troops are caught in several more ambushes along their line of retreat, taking more casualties. - Anti-Treaty fighters ambush Free State troops at Glasson, near Athlone. National Army officer Lieutenant McCormack is killed and several more soldiers are wounded.
- Fianna ÉireannFianna ÉireannThe name Fianna Éireann , also written Fianna na hÉireann and Na Fianna Éireann , has been used by various Irish republican youth movements throughout the 20th and 21st centuries...
members Seán Cole and Alf Colley and Anti-Treaty IRA member Bernard Daly, are abducted and killed in Dublin by the Criminal Investigation DepartmentCriminal Investigation Department (Ireland)The Criminal Investigation Department in the Irish Free State was an armed, plain-clothed counter-insurgency police unit that operated during the Irish Civil War. It was organised separately from the unarmed Civic Guard police force...
CID, police unit based in Oriel House allegedly in revenge for Michael Collins killing, although possibly in retaliation for the death of a CID man the previous day. - Two National Army soldiers are killed in an ambush on the road between Nenagh and Limerick.
- A civilian is killed in an exchange of fire at Whitefriars, Dublin city.
- 27 August – Three National Army soldiers are killed in ambush near NenaghNenaghNenagh is the county town of North Tipperary in Ireland. It is the administrative centre of North Tipperary and in 2011 it had a recorded population of 7,995. It is a civil parish in the historical barony of Ormond Lower...
, County Tipperary, when a mine is exploded under their lorry and they are fired on by Anti-Treaty fighters. Several more men are injured in the shooting. Another two are killed in a separate mine attack near Bushfield, Tipperary. - Anti-Treaty IRA units mount an ambush of Free State troops at Glenflesk, near KillarneyKillarneyKillarney is a town in County Kerry, southwestern Ireland. The town is located north of the MacGillicuddy Reeks, on the northeastern shore of the Lough Lein/Leane which are part of Killarney National Park. The town and its surrounding region are home to St...
, County Kerry. The Free State troops bring up an 18 pounder artillery piece and eventually drive off their attackers. Press reports say that the bodies of 20 Anti-Treaty fighters are found at the scene. - A soldier is shot dead in an ambush near Macroom, Cork.
- Two Anti-Treaty IRA men are captured in Tralee, Kerry and shot by Free State troops. One of them, James Healy, survives and escapes.
- Free State troops assault an Anti-Treaty IRA position at Convent hill, near Newport, County Mayo. They are repulsed with seven men wounded.
- 29 August – Six Free State soldiers are killed in three separate ambushes. Two in TullamoreTullamoreTullamore is a town in County Offaly, in the midlands of Ireland. It is Offaly's county town and the centre of the district.Tullamore is an important commercial and industrial centre in the region. Major international employers in the town include 'Tyco Healthcare' and 'Boston Scientific'. In...
, and one in MacroomMacroomMacroom is a market town in Ireland located in a valley on the River Sullane, a tributary of the River Lee, between Cork and Killarney. It is one of the key gateways to the tourist region of West Cork. The town recorded a population on 3,553 in the 2006 national census...
, and two in an ambush and firefight between Kilrglin and Tralee in County Kerry. An attack is also made on ClonakiltyClonakiltyClonakilty , often referred to by locals simply as Clon, is a small town on the N71 national secondary road in West County Cork, Ireland, approximately 45 minutes away by road to the west of Cork City. The town is on the southern coast of the island, and is surrounded by hilly country devoted...
in which one Free State officer is killed. Three Republican fighters are reported killed in fighting in Cork. - In Marybourogh Jail, where 600 Anti-Treaty prisoners are being held, the republicans riot and set fire to their cells.
- 30 August – Anti-Treaty IRA attack BantryBantryBantry is a town on the coast of County Cork, Ireland. It lies on the N71 national secondary road at the head of Bantry Bay, a deep-water gulf extending for 30 km to the west...
in western County Cork for several hours. They withdraw after losing four officers and more men killed. Four National Army soldiers are also killed and two wounded in the attack. - In north Cork, near Millstreet, two lorries of Free State troops are ambushed by IRA Cork 1 Brigade members. Two Anti-Treaty fighters are kiled andtwo wounded. Five Free State troops are wounded.
- 31 August – The Anti-Treaty IRA mounts gun and grenade attacks on National Army soldiers at Stephen's Green, Dublin. In Cork, there is an exchange of fire between Free State troops and Anti-Treaty snipers. One Republican is killed by machine gun fire.
- August – republicans blow up the railway bridge over the river Blackwater at Mallow, County CorkMallow, County CorkMallow is the "Crossroads of Munster" and the administrative capital of north County Cork, in Ireland. The Northern Divisional Offices of Cork County Council are located in the town....
, disabling the rail line between Cork and Dublin. - August – Two Republicans are taken from a car in DrumcondraDrumcondra, DublinDrumcondra is a residential area and inner suburb on the Northside of Dublin, Ireland. It is administered by Dublin City Council.The River Tolka and the Royal Canal flow through the area.-History:...
in Dublin and shot dead. Their bodies are left on the street. A British soldier on the scene reported that the car contained three men in "Provisional Government uniform" and three more in trench coats – presumed to be from the CID intelligence unit. - Three unarmed Free State soldiers are shot at GlassonGlassanGlassan is a small village of 216 inhabitants in rural County Westmeath, Ireland. It is north of Athlone, on the N55 national secondary road, not far from the shores of Lough Ree...
, near Athlone. One is killed.
September
- 2 September – Republicans attack MacroomMacroomMacroom is a market town in Ireland located in a valley on the River Sullane, a tributary of the River Lee, between Cork and Killarney. It is one of the key gateways to the tourist region of West Cork. The town recorded a population on 3,553 in the 2006 national census...
, County Cork with men and a captured armoured car. They withdraw after a seven-hour fire fight. - 2 September – Republicans attack National Army troops while they are drilling in front of the City Club in Cork city. They drive up in a lorry and open machine-gun fire on the Free State troops, killing two and injuring six.
- 2 September – Two National Army soldiers are killed in an ambush at Watergrass Hill, County Cork.
- There are also attacks by Anti-Treaty fighters on Free State troops in Dublin city centre and Tallaght and RathfarnhamRathfarnhamRathfarnham or Rathfarnam is a Southside suburb of Dublin, Ireland. It is south of Terenure, east of Templeogue, and is in the postal districts of Dublin 14 and 16. It is within the administrative areas of both Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown and South Dublin County Councils.The area of Rathfarnham...
in County Dublin. In the city centre ambush, one civilian is killed, and a Free State soldier and a civilian are wounded. Two Free State soldiers are wounded in the attack in Rathfranham and the RIC barracks there is destroyed. - Three CID police are shot in an ambush at Dean Grange, Dublin, one later dies.
- Anti-Treaty IRA members Leo Murray and Rodney Murphy, Deans Grange are shot in their beds at lodge house of Newpark Lodge, Stillorgan, Dublin. Another, John Joe Stephens, Bellek, Fermanagh is taken from his lodgings at 7 Gardiner Place and shot at Naas Road, Dublin, the following day. National Army or CID personnel are assumed to be responsible.
- 4 September – Anti-Treaty IRA unit under Liam PilkingtonLiam PilkingtonLiam Pilkington , also known as William Pilkington and Billy Pilkington, served in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence. Pilkington served the IRA as General Officer Commanding of the 3rd Western Division IRA from 1921 to 1923...
takes Dromhaire barracks, County Sligo. Free State garrison there surrenders. - 5 September – A secret meeting takes place between Richard Mulcahy and Éamon de Valera, political leader of the Republicans, to try to arrange a truce. However, according to de Valera, they, "couldn't find a basis" of agreement.
- A large party of Republican fighters attack CarrickmacrossCarrickmacrossCarrickmacross or Carrickmacros is a town in County Monaghan, Ireland. The town and environs had a population of 4,387 according to the 2006 census, making it the second largest town in the county. The town won the prestigious European Entente Florale Silver Medal Award. It is a market town which...
barracks, Monaghan. The attack is unsuccessful but one Free State soldier is killed. - A Free State soldier is assassinated at Barrack Street, Cork, while visiting his family.
- 6 September – A Free State column is ambushed outside Kilkelly, County Mayo by Anti-Treaty fighters. The Free State troops have five wounded and claim to have killed seven irregulars.
- A skirmish takes place in MitchelstownMitchelstownMitchelstown is a town in County Cork, Ireland with a population of approximately 3300. Mitchelstown is situated in the valley to the south of the Galtee Mountains close to the Mitchelstown Caves and is 28 km from Cahir, 50 km from Cork and 59 km from Limerick...
, Cork. One Anti-Treaty officer is killed and 12 of his men are captured. - 8 September – Anti-Treaty fighters attack National Army posts protecting the railway line around Limerick Junction, County Tipperary. One Free State soldier and one republican are killed and several others wounded in the fighting.
- 9 September – Republicans attack and take KenmareKenmareKenmare is a small town in the south of County Kerry, Ireland. The name Kenmare is the anglicised form of Ceann Mara meaning "head of the sea", referring to the head of Kenmare Bay.-Location:...
in County Kerry. A total of 84 Anti-Treaty fighters take over the town and shoot dead local pro-treaty officer Tom "Scarteen" O'Connor" and his brother after taking them prisoner. They take 120 National Army troops in the town prisoner, but later release them. They capture 110 rifles and 20,000 rounds of ammunition. This action allowed the Kerry Anti-Treaty units to pursue a fairly effective guerrilla campaign for the remainder of the war. - A British intelligence report states that the Free State intelligence unit, the Crime Investigation Department or CID has, "murdered a number of prominent republicans" in Dublin.
- Anti-Treaty fighters attack the barracks at CarrickmacrossCarrickmacrossCarrickmacross or Carrickmacros is a town in County Monaghan, Ireland. The town and environs had a population of 4,387 according to the 2006 census, making it the second largest town in the county. The town won the prestigious European Entente Florale Silver Medal Award. It is a market town which...
. One Free State soldier is killed and two wounded in the firing. - 10 September – Anti-Treaty ambush of Free State troops near Rathmore, County Kerry. Seven National Army soldiers are killed. The Republicans retire after an artillery piece is brought up to fire seven shells at them.
- Republicans take Tarbert, County Kerry, temporarily, capturing 40 rifles.
- 11 September – A Free State column travelling from MacroomMacroomMacroom is a market town in Ireland located in a valley on the River Sullane, a tributary of the River Lee, between Cork and Killarney. It is one of the key gateways to the tourist region of West Cork. The town recorded a population on 3,553 in the 2006 national census...
, Cork, towards towards Kerry, is attacked with a mine on a bridge at Carrigphooka, west Cork. National Army commandant Tom Keogh and eight other soldiers are killed in the blast. A Republican prisoner is shot dead in reprisal by Dublin GuardDublin GuardThe Dublin Guard was a unit of the Irish Republican Army, in the Irish War of Independence and then of the Irish National Army during the Irish Civil War 1922-23.-Foundation:...
troops. - 12 September – Republicans under Michael KilroyMichael KilroyMichael Kilroy was an Irish politician and guerrilla leader. He was an Irish Republican Army officer in his native County Mayo, during the Irish War of Independence and Irish Civil War...
take Ballina, County MayoBallina, County MayoBallina is a large town in north County Mayo in Ireland. It lies at the mouth of the River Moy near Killala Bay, in the Moy valley and Parish of Kilmoremoy, with the Ox Mountain range to the east and the Nephin Beg mountains to the west...
, in a surprise attack while the National Army troops there are at a Mass service for a comrade killed in the fighting. Kilroy's men capture 100 rifles, 20,000 rounds of ammunition and are reported by Free State authorities to have looted £25,000 worth of goods from local shops. Kilroy later admits to drunkenness and indiscipline on behalf of his men. Two civilians are shot dead in the fire-fight between the combatants. The Republicans leave the town when Free State reinforcements arrive. The Republican's armoured car breaks down in the retreat and has to be abandoned. - Anti-Treaty IRA attack a lorry of Free State troops in Dublin on the South Circular Road. A grenade misses the lorry and explodes in an adjacent newsagents, killing two civilians, one a 7 year old girl. The Free State soldiers chase the ambushers through the streets man and catch two of them. Both are shot on Bishops Street, allegedly after trying to escape. One, Sean McEvoy, dies.
- 13 September – The Anti-Treaty IRA in Dublin mounts three separate ambushes of Free State troops at Stephen's Green, Mountjoy Square and O'Connell Bridge in the city centre. The ambushes, consisting of gun and grenade attacks, result in the death of one republican, the injury of another and the serious wounding of three National Army soldiers and three civilians.
- 14 September – Republicans under Michael Kilroy ambush a Free State convoy near Belderg, County Mayo, killing 4 National Army soldiers and taking 16 prisoners. Another ambush in the Ox MountainsOx MountainsThe Ox Mountains are a mountain range in County Sligo on the west coast of Ireland. They are also known as 'St Patrick's Mountain after St. Patrick, as he laboured much on it, raised churches on its slopes, and left his name to some of its wells, as for instance that of Dromard' . The highest peak...
kills up to 15 National Army soldiers, including Brigadier Joe Ring. Republican losses are reported in the press as 10 killed and more wounded, but this may be an overstatement. - Drumshambo barracks in County LeitrimCounty LeitrimCounty Leitrim is a county in Ireland. It is located in the West Region and is also part of the province of Connacht. It is named after the village of Leitrim. Leitrim County Council is the local authority for the county...
is seized by Republicans after successful ambush of National Army troops. - A skirmish takes place at DonoughmoreDonoughmoreDonoughmore is a parish in County Cork which lies 25 km west north west of Cork city in Ireland.-Amenities:Donoughmore has two primary schools. Scoil Iósaif and St. Lachteen's...
, County Cork. Two Anti-Treaty IRA men are killed. - Press reports say that a total of six Anti-Treaty and six pro-treaty troops are killed in an ambushes at BlarneyBlarneyBlarney is a town and townland in County Cork, Ireland. It lies north-west of Cork and is famed as the site of Blarney Castle, home of the legendary Blarney Stone.-Tourism:Blarney town is a major tourist attraction in County Cork...
. - Republican fighters open fire on Free State troops landing by sea at CourtmacSherryCourtmacsherryCourtmacsherry is a picturesque seaside village in County Cork, Province of Munster, Ireland, on the southwest coast. It is about 30 miles southwest of Cork, and 30 minutes drive east from the town of Clonakilty. The village consists of a single long street on the south shore of Courtmacsherry...
in Cork. Three Anti-Treaty fighters and one Free State soldier are killed. - Republican activist Timothy Kenefick is abducted from his home in Cork city by Free State troops. He is shot dead and his body is dumped near Macroom. In Killarney, Free State troops break into the houses of six women republicans and paint their bodies green.
- 15 September – Anti-Treaty fighters attempt to take over the Telephone exchange and Kingsbridge Railway Station in Dublin. They also attack the Wellington and Portobello military barracks. The attacks were driven off by Free State troops after several hours of firing.
- In Dundalk, the Anti-Treaty IRA made several attacks on Free State troops and took over the power station, cutting off the town's electricity supply. One National Army soldier is killed by a hand grenade in the clashes.
- The Free State's Lord Chief Justice rules that the country is in a state of war and Habeas CorpusHabeas corpusis a writ, or legal action, through which a prisoner can be released from unlawful detention. The remedy can be sought by the prisoner or by another person coming to his aid. Habeas corpus originated in the English legal system, but it is now available in many nations...
no longer applies. He rejects an application to free two of the 5,000 prisoners taken by National forces since the outbreak of the civil war. - 16 September – Michael Kilroy's Anti-Treaty IRA men attack NewportNewport, County MayoNewport, historically known as Ballyveaghan , is a small picturesque town in the Barony of Burrishoole County Mayo, Ireland with a population of 590 in 2006. It is located on the west coast of Ireland, along the shore of Clew Bay, north of Westport. The N59 road passes through the town. The...
, County Mayo, but fail to take it and withdraw after a day of fighting. - 17 September CID Headquarters – Oriel House in Dublin – is stormed and a CID officer is shot dead by Anti-Treaty IRA. There is a fire fight on Mount street bridge as the IRA party makes its getaway. Republican fighter Patrick Mannion is shot in the head by Free State troops as he lies wounded.
- An ambush is mounted on Stephens Green in central Dublin. One civilian is killed in the crossfire.
- 18 September, three National Army troops are killed in an ambush near NenaghNenaghNenagh is the county town of North Tipperary in Ireland. It is the administrative centre of North Tipperary and in 2011 it had a recorded population of 7,995. It is a civil parish in the historical barony of Ormond Lower...
, Tipperary as they were about to enter a Church for Mass. - 19 September – Republican fighter Bertie Murphy is shot dead in Kilarney, County Kerry, by National Army troops in reprisal for ambushes in the area.
- 19 September – Seán Mac Eoin begins a Free State sweep of northern County Sligo to clear it of Anti-Treaty guerrillas. The operation is largely successful. By the end of the operation, Free State forces are in control of all the towns in County Sligo and the conflict there becomes a low level guerrilla affair. 54 people are killed in the county during the entire civil war, 22 Free State troops, 21 Republicans and 11 civilians. Of these, all but 8 have been killed by the end of September 1922. During MacEoin's operation, a Republican column, including an armoured car, is cornered north of SligoSligoSligo is the county town of County Sligo in Ireland. The town is a borough and has a charter and a town mayor. It is sometimes referred to as a city, and sometimes as a town, and is the second largest urban area in Connacht...
town. The car is put out of action and six republicans flee up the slopes of Ben BulbenBen BulbenBen Bulben, sometimes spelt Benbulben or Benbulbin , is a large rock formation in County Sligo, Ireland. It is part of the Dartry Mountains, an area sometimes called "Yeats Country".Ben Bulben is listed as a protected structure....
mountain. All six are killed by the pursuing Free State troops, four of them, it is alleged, are killed after surrendering. Among those killed is Brian MacNeill, (son of Eoin MacNeillEoin MacNeillEoin MacNeill was an Irish scholar, nationalist, revolutionary and politician. MacNeill is regarded as the father of the modern study of early Irish medieval history. He was a co-founder of the Gaelic League, to preserve Irish language and culture, going on to establish the Irish Volunteers...
, founder of the Irish VolunteersIrish VolunteersThe Irish Volunteers was a military organisation established in 1913 by Irish nationalists. It was ostensibly formed in response to the formation of the Ulster Volunteers in 1912, and its declared primary aim was "to secure and maintain the rights and liberties common to the whole people of Ireland"...
), who is shot at close range in the forehead. One National Army sergeant is killed in the operation and 30 Irregulars are taken prisoner. - 21 September, Six National Army soldiers are killed in a prolonged engagement with Republican fighters near BallinaBallina, County MayoBallina is a large town in north County Mayo in Ireland. It lies at the mouth of the River Moy near Killala Bay, in the Moy valley and Parish of Kilmoremoy, with the Ox Mountain range to the east and the Nephin Beg mountains to the west...
in Mayo. - 22 September – One National Army soldier is killed and several soldiers and three civilians are injured in a gun and grenade attack by Republicans on Free State troops at noon on Eden Quay, central Dublin.
- 23 September – Anti-Treaty fighter Michael Neville, is taken from work in Dublin and found shot dead at Killester Cemetery by Pro-Treaty forces.
- Two Free State soldiers are killed in two separate ambushes in Kerry.
- The Anti-Treaty IRA mounts three attacks in Dublin. In Drumcondra, 10 civilians are wounded by a grenade thrown at an Army lorry. On Eden Quay, one soldier is killed and three wounded along with four civilians wounded in a gun and grenade attack. On Merchant's Quay, a civilian is killed in another grenade attack.
- 24 September – the Free State evacuates its garrison at Newport, County Mayo due to the intense guerrilla activity in the area.
- 27 September – The Free State's Provisional Government puts the "Public Safety Bill" before the Dáil, setting up military courts which allow for the execution of men captured bearing arms against the state and aiding and abetting attacks on state forces. It passes by 48 votes to 18. The Irish Labour Party oppose it.
- 27 September – About 500 Anti-Treaty IRA men attack Killorglin, County Kerry, led by Seán Hyde. However, they fail to dislodge a pro-treaty garrison of 60 men from Clare who hold the barracks in the town. British Intelligence reports that 23 Republicans are killed in the action and 30 wounded. Anti-Treaty soldier David RobinsonDavid Robinson-Sports personalities:*David Robinson , American player*David Robinson , cricketer*David Robinson , English professional player; striker from 1988 to 1998...
admits to 2 killed, 15 wounded and 14 captured. The republicans disperse after 24 hours of fighting, when Free State troops arrive from Tralee. - Two Free State soldiers are killed in an ambush at Brennan's Glen, Kerry.
- 28 September – John Galvin, a republican captured in the Killorglin raid is shot by Free State troops in Tralee and his body dumped in nearby Ballyseedy wood. Galvin had admitted under interrogation to the killing of a National Army officer at CastlemaineCastlemaine, County KerryCastlemaine is a small town in County Kerry, southwest Ireland. It lies on the N70 national secondary road between Killorglin and Tralee.-History:...
. A Free State soldier is also shot dead while on sentry duty at Rathmore courthouse, Kerry. - Anti-Treaty forces mount an ambush at KilfenoraKilfenoraKilfenora is a small village in County Clare in Ireland, just south of The Burren. The village is noted for being the home to the Kilfenora Ceili Band and the location for much of the filming of the sitcom Father Ted.-Places of interest:...
, County Clare. One Free State captain, Consadine is killed. - The Republican leader Tom BarryTom BarryThomas Barry was one of the most prominent guerrilla leaders in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence.-Early life:...
, who was captured in the Dublin fighting, escapes from an internmentInternmentInternment is the imprisonment or confinement of people, commonly in large groups, without trial. The Oxford English Dictionary gives the meaning as: "The action of 'interning'; confinement within the limits of a country or place." Most modern usage is about individuals, and there is a distinction...
camp in GormanstonGormanstonGormanstown could refer to:* Gormanston, Tasmania, town in Tasmania, Australia* Gormanston, County Meath, a village in County Meath, Republic of Ireland* Gormanston railway station, also in County Meath* Gormanston Aerodrome, County Meath...
, County DublinCounty DublinCounty Dublin is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Dublin Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the city of Dublin which is the capital of Ireland. County Dublin was one of the first of the parts of Ireland to be shired by King John of England following the...
. - A National Army medical orderly named Lydon is shot dead by a republican sniperSniperA sniper is a marksman who shoots targets from concealed positions or distances exceeding the capabilities of regular personnel. Snipers typically have specialized training and distinct high-precision rifles....
as he cyclesBicycleA bicycle, also known as a bike, pushbike or cycle, is a human-powered, pedal-driven, single-track vehicle, having two wheels attached to a frame, one behind the other. A person who rides a bicycle is called a cyclist, or bicyclist....
out of Tralee, Kerry, despite the fact that he is unarmed and wearing a Red Cross armband. - September – A Free State garrison at OldcastleOldcastle, County MeathOldcastle is a town in County Meath, Ireland. It is located in the north-west of the county near the border with Cavan, approximately 21 km from Kells. The R154 and R195 regional roads cross in the town's market square...
, County Meath is attacked and forced to surrender its weapons. A mine is detonated against their barracks and fire is opened with machine guns. A civilian is killed in the crossfire. - September 30, A lorry of Free State troops is attacked with grenades and guns at O'Connell Bridge, central Dublin. One soldier is killed and three wounded. Four civilians are also wounded.
October
- 3 October – The Free State offers an amnestyAmnestyAmnesty is a legislative or executive act by which a state restores those who may have been guilty of an offense against it to the positions of innocent people, without changing the laws defining the offense. It includes more than pardon, in as much as it obliterates all legal remembrance of the...
to Anti-Treaty fighters who surrender their arms and recognise the government. - There are attacks on Free State troops at Cahir, Tipperary and OmeathOmeathOmeath is a village on the R173 regional road in County Louth, Ireland, close to the border with Northern Ireland. It is roughly mid way between Dublin and Belfast, very near the County Louth and County Armagh / County Down border. Omeath has a population of 439, and is approximately from...
, Louth. One officer, Clarke is killed and others wounded. Another soldier is killed near Cashel, Tipperary. The telephone link between Dublin and Dundalk is cut. - 4 October – Four Anti-Treaty IRA fighters and one Free State soldier are killed in an action at Upton, County Cork. National Army troops mount a sweep to try and occupy the Republican stronghold around Ballyvourney but meet with "stiff resistance".
- Two civilian Free State supporters are abducted and killed at Whitescross, County Cork.
- 6 October – National Army officer Tony Lawlor shoots dead republican prisoner, Patrick Mulrennan during a riot in the prison in Athlone.
- Anti-Treaty fighters in Tullycrine, County Clare ambush a National Army column. A number of Free State troops and one Anti-Treaty IRA man are killed in the firefight.
- A number of gun and grenade attacks are carried out by Republican fighters in Dublin. Three people are wounded. In Limerick, Republicans raid the hospital and free six of their prisoners who were being treated there.
- One Anti-Treaty fighter is killed in action at White's Cross, Cork.
- 7 October – Charlie Dalton, a National Army intelligence officer, captures three youths (Hughes, Holihan, Rogers) in Dublin putting up republican posters. The next morning they are found shot dead in a ditch in the quarries, ClondalkinClondalkin-Today:Modern Clondalkin is a busy satellite town of Dublin, with a population of 43,929 in 2006. Retail facilities include Tesco Ireland- and Dunnes Stores-led shopping centres, and Aldi and Lidl stores on the Fonthill Road and New Nangor Road respectively, and the village centre is a base for...
. - A National Army Lieutenant is found shot in the head on the road near Newtownbarry, Wexford.
- President Cosgarve's uncle is shot dead as his public house is robbed.
- 10 October – The Roman Catholic Bishops of Ireland issue a formal statement, supporting the Free State as the lawful and democratic government, denouncing the Anti-Treaty campaign as an unlawful rebellion and denying their fighters access to Holy Communion or ConfessionConfessionThis article is for the religious practice of confessing one's sins.Confession is the acknowledgment of sin or wrongs...
. - A Free State officer is killed in an ambush between Clonmel and Cahir.
- Peadar Breslin, a Republican captured after the fall of the Four Courts, is shot dead during an attempt to escape from Mountjoy PrisonMountjoy PrisonMountjoy Prison , founded as Mountjoy Gaol, nicknamed The Joy, is a medium security prison located in Phibsboro in the centre of Dublin, Ireland. It has the largest prison population in Ireland.The current prison governor is Mr...
in Dublin. Three Free State soldiers are also killed in the fire fights during the escape attempts. - A senior Free State army officer, Commandant Peter Doyle, of Ballinakill, Marshalstown, is shot in the grounds of St. Aidan’s Cathedral, EnniscorthyEnniscorthyEnniscorthy is the second largest town in County Wexford, Ireland. The population of the town and environs is 9538. The Placenames Database of Ireland sheds no light on the origins of the town's name. It may refer either to the "Island of Corthaidh" or the "Island of Rocks". With a history going...
, Wexford, by Anti-Treaty I.R.A. after mass. Five girls are injured in the process, two of them seriously. - 11 October, Two Free State soldiers are killed in anmbush in Cork, between Dunmanway and Clonakilty.
- 13 October, A Free State soldier is killed in an ambush of a troop lorry at Ulverton Road, DalkeyDalkeyDalkey is suburb of Dublin and seaside resort in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County, Ireland. It was founded as a Viking settlement and became an important port during the Middle Ages. According to John Clyn, it was one of the ports through which the plague entered Ireland in the mid-14th century...
, County Dublin. - Two Free State soldiers are killed in kerry, one in Rathmore, the other in Abbeydorney.
- 14 October – An ambush in the Cornmarket area of Dublin leaves three civilians and four Free State soldiers wounded. In a separate ambush near Tralee, one National Army soldier is killed and another wounded.
- 15 October – The Public Safety Bill comes into effect. The bill called for people to hand over their weapons in a brief amnesty, after which time the possession of arms could be punishable by execution. This led to the summary executions of captured Anti-Treaty fighters.
- Directives are sent to the press by Free State director of communications, Piaras BeaslaiPiaras BéaslaíPiaras Béaslaí was a member of the Irish Republican Brotherhood, a member of Dáil Éireann and also an Irish author, playwright, biographer and translator....
to the effect that; Free State troops are to be referred to as the "National Army", the "Irish Army", or just "troops". The Anti-Treaty side are to called "Irregulars" and are not to be referred to as "Republicans", "IRA", "forces", or "troops", nor are the ranks of their officers allowed to be given. No letters about the treatment of Anti-Treaty prisoners are to be published. The words "attacked, commandeered and arrested" as used to describe their actions are to be replaced by, "fired at, seized and kidnapped". - 17 October – An Anti-Treaty force attacks the National Army posts in CharlevilleCharleville, County CorkCharleville or Ráth Luirc is a town in north County Cork, Ireland, situated in Ireland's Golden Vale, near the border with County Limerick. It is located on the "Glen" tributary river, which flows into the Maigue River in Co. Limerick...
, Cork. They claim Two soldiers are killed and one mortally wounded, National Army reports three wounded - 19 October - A Free State soldier is killed by sniper near Naas, County Kildare. Another dies in an accidental shooting at Corporation Street, central Dublin.
- 20 October - A Free State soldier is shot dead while trying to clear a blocked road at Duagh, Kerry. Another is killed the following day at Lawlor's Cross, Kerry.
- National Army troops raid and capture a bomb making factory at Gerdiner Street, Dublin. A Free State captain, Nicholas Toibin, brother of Liam Toibin is accidentally shot dead by his own troops.
- 22 October - Two National Army soldiers are killed at Woodhouse County Waterford.
- 24 October – Three Free State soldiers are killed in an ambush at Graney, County Kildare.
- Four National Army troops are killed by a land-mine explosion in an ambush by Anti-Treaty forces at Ferrycarrig, County Wexford.
- A Free State soldier is also killed in Limerick.
- 25 October – Éamon de Valera, at the request of the IRA Army Executive, sets up a "Republican Cabinet", formed from Anti-Treaty TDs to: "be temporarily the Supreme Executive of the Republic and the State, until such time as the elected Parliament of the Republic can freely assemble, or the people being rid of external aggression are at liberty to decide freely how they are to be governed".
- Two Free State soldiers are killed, one in a firefight near Abbeydorney, Kerry, the other by a sniper in Dundalk.
- 29 October – An Anti-Treaty IRA column under Michael Kilroy attacks and takes ClifdenClifdenClifden is a town on the coast of County Galway, Ireland and being Connemara's largest town, it is often referred to as "the Capital of Connemara". It is located on the Owenglen River where it flows into Clifden Bay...
, County GalwayCounty GalwayCounty Galway is a county in Ireland. It is located in the West Region and is also part of the province of Connacht. It is named after the city of Galway. Galway County Council is the local authority for the county. There are several strongly Irish-speaking areas in the west of the county...
, capturing 80 Free State soldiers, after a ten hour gun battle. The Irregulars burn the barracks there and take the Free State soldiers rifles before retreating. In a separate incident, a Free State soldier is killed by a landmine. - 30 October – National Army troops raid BallyheigueBallyheigueBallyheigue, officially Ballyheige , is a coastal village in County Kerry, Ireland. It is approximately north of Tralee on the R551. Its name is pronounced ....
County Kerry. One Anti-Treaty fighter is killed, allegedly after he had been taken prisoner. - Late October - The bodies of four Anti-Treaty IRA men are found in hay stack at Rockview, Delvin, Westmeath. They were killed by their own bomb while trying to blow up a bridge.
November
- 1 November – A 20 strong Anti-Treaty IRA column encounters 250 Free State troops at Brockagh Fahy, County Mayo. Six Republicans are captured, one is wounded and another is killed.
- 2 November – Skirmish near Headford, County Kerry, one Anti-Treaty IRA man and a Free State soldier are killed.
- 3 November – Tom Powell and his East Mayo Anti-Treaty IRA unit are captured in BallinrobeBallinrobe-Early history:Dating back to 1390, Ballinrobe is said to be the oldest town in South Mayo. The registry of the Dominican friary of Athenry mentions the monastery de Roba, an Augustinian friary whose recently restored ruins are one of the historical landmarks of the town today...
, County Mayo. - Republicans attack Free State General Richard MulcahyRichard MulcahyRichard James Mulcahy was an Irish politician, army general and commander in chief, leader of Fine Gael and Cabinet Minister...
's official residence adjoining a military barracks in Portobello, Dublin. A grenade is thrown into the house and fire is opened with revolvers before troops from the barracks are mobilised. and One Anti-Treaty fighter is shot dead. - 4 November – Ernie O'MalleyErnie O'MalleyErnie O'Malley was an Irish Republican Army officer during the Irish War of Independence and a commander of the anti-treaty IRA during the Irish Civil War. O'Malley wrote three books, On Another Man's Wound, The Singing Flame, and Raids and Rallies. The first describes his early life and role in...
, Anti-Treaty IRA commander in Dublin, is captured following a shoot out with Free State soldiers on Ailesbury road in DonnybrookDonnybrook, DublinDonnybrook is a district of Dublin, Ireland. It is situated on the southside of the city, in the Dublin 4 postal district, and is home to the Irish state broadcaster RTÉ. It was once part of the Pembroke Township...
. O'Malley is hit over 20 times, but survives. He kills a National Army soldier in the gun fight. - Two Free State soldiers are killed by a land mine near Dundalk. Another two are killed in Kerry.
- Skirmish between National Army and Republican troops under Seán MoylanSeán MoylanSeán Moylan was a Commandant of the Irish Republican Army and later a Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil politician...
near MacroomMacroomMacroom is a market town in Ireland located in a valley on the River Sullane, a tributary of the River Lee, between Cork and Killarney. It is one of the key gateways to the tourist region of West Cork. The town recorded a population on 3,553 in the 2006 national census...
. One Free State soldier is injured. Republican losses are two dead; a section commander Tadhg O'Leary and a volunteer, both IRA West Cork Brigade. - 6 November – Republicans attack the National Army barracks at GlanmireGlanmireGlanmire literally meaning ‘The valley of the small fish; The valley of the ploughed land:' The Still Vale: The Valley of the Young Fish) is a town in County Cork, Ireland with a population of 15,498....
, Cork. One civilian is wounded in the crossfire. - 8 November – Five people are killed in an attack in Dublin. Anti-Treaty IRA fighters attack Wellington BarracksGriffith BarracksGriffith Barracks is a former military barracks located on the South Circular Road, Dublin, Ireland.-History:The site of Griffith Barracks was originally known as Grimswoods Nurseries. The first buildings on the site were those of a Remand Prison or Bridewell. Begun in 1813 by the architect Francis...
in Dublin. They open fire with machine guns and rifles from across the Grand Canal on National Army troops drilling on the parade square. In the ensuing firefight, one Free Soldier is killed and fourteen wounded, seven of whom require surgery. Two republicans are killed and six captured, along with a machine gun, by Free State reinforcements rushed from Portobello. Two civilians are killed in the crossfire and many wounded. One of the IRA dead, James Spain, is allegedly executed while unarmed after capture. - One Civil GuardCivil GuardThe Civil Guard , often abbreviated in Hebrew to Mash'az is a volunteer organization of Israeli citizens which assists in daily police work. It is a subdivision of the Israel Police.-Organization:...
is mortally wounded. - Anti-Treaty fighters mount an ambush of a Free State cycling patrol near Milltown, Kerry. Two civilians (30 year old Jeremiah McKenna and his mother) are killed in the firing.
- 9 November – Anti-Treaty fighters in Dublin attack Portobello barracks. One Anti-Treaty fighter is killed.
- William Ahearne shot as an alleged spy by the Anti-Treaty IRA and dumped in BishopstownBishopstownBishopstown is a southwestern suburb of Cork, Ireland with a population of 24,136 people. Baile an Easpaig, anglicised Bishopstown, consists of two townlands which are Ballineaspigmore and Ballineaspigbeg...
, Cork. - A Free State sergeant is accidentally shot by a sentry in Cahersiveen, Kerry.
- There are simultaneous night attacks on Wellington and Portobello barracks in Dubin by Anti-Treaty fighters. In 20 minutes of firing, one Free State soldier is hit in the head. Two civilians are found shot dead in Rathmines, near Portobello - it ispresumed killed in the crossfire.
- 11 November – Republican head of propaganda Robert Erskine ChildersRobert Erskine ChildersRobert Erskine Childers DSC , universally known as Erskine Childers, was the author of the influential novel Riddle of the Sands and an Irish nationalist who smuggled guns to Ireland in his sailing yacht Asgard. He was executed by the authorities of the nascent Irish Free State during the Irish...
is captured by the Free State at the house of Robert BartonRobert BartonRobert Childers Barton was an Irish lawyer, soldier, statesman and farmer who participated in the negotiations leading up to the signature of the Anglo-Irish Treaty. His father was Charles William Barton and his mother was Agnes Childers. His wife was Rachel Warren of Boston, daughter of Fiske...
in AnnamoeAnnamoeAnnamoe is small picturesque village in County Wicklow, Ireland about from Dublin located on the Avonmore river. It is on the R755 between Roundwood and Laragh on the road to Glendalough....
, County WicklowCounty WicklowCounty Wicklow is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Mid-East Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Wicklow, which derives from the Old Norse name Víkingalág or Wykynlo. Wicklow County Council is the local authority for the county...
. - A civilian is shot dead by Free State patrol on Queen Street, Dublin.
- 13 November – Free State troops raid Newtownshandrum, County Cork at night, looking for Anti-Treaty fighters. Two are arrested with arms but the troops also fire on a pony and trap, killing civilian Molly Egan
- 15 November – A seven-man Free State Army patrol, escorting a prisoner is ambushed at Ulverton road, DalkeyDalkeyDalkey is suburb of Dublin and seaside resort in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County, Ireland. It was founded as a Viking settlement and became an important port during the Middle Ages. According to John Clyn, it was one of the ports through which the plague entered Ireland in the mid-14th century...
, County Dublin. A Free State soldier and a civilian are killed in the action, in which shots are exchanged and two grenades are thrown by the Anti-Treaty fighters. - 17 November – Four Anti-Treaty IRA men from Dublin, who were captured with weapons in County WicklowCounty WicklowCounty Wicklow is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Mid-East Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Wicklow, which derives from the Old Norse name Víkingalág or Wykynlo. Wicklow County Council is the local authority for the county...
, are shot by firing squad. - 18 November – Four Anti-Treaty IRA fighters are killed when a land mine they are preparing on the NaasNaasNaas is the county town of County Kildare in Ireland. With a population of just over twenty thousand, it is also the largest town in the county. Naas is a major commuter suburb, with many people residing there and working in Dublin...
road near Dublin explodes prematurely. - 19 November – Three more Republican prisoners are executed in Dublin by the Free State.
- Free State troops fire on a republican rally on O'Connell Street, Dubin that was protesting against the mistreatment of prisoners. One civilian is killed and seven wounded.
- 21 November - A Free State soldier is killed in an ambush between Tallaght and Clondalkin, Dublin.
- 23 November – A National Army force surprises Michael Kilroy and the leader of the Mayo Anti-Treaty IRA at Carrowbeg house. In the ensuing fight, 4 Free State soldiers are killed and more are wounded but Kilroy and several of his officers are captured.
- Free State troops re-take Newport, Mayo, after some resistance by republicans. The Free State troops reportedly took 35 casualties between killed and wounded before the republicans abandoned their positions and the National Army took possession of the town.
- In the rest of the month of November – Free State troops under Tony Lawlor sweep south and west County Mayo and ConnemaraConnemaraConnemara is a district in the west of Ireland consisting of a broad peninsula between Killary Harbour and Kilkieran Bay in the west of County Galway.-Overview:...
for Republican guerrillas. Lawlor reports that 5 of his men were killed in the operation and 9 wounded. He reports the Republican losses as 9 killed, 19 wounded and 23 taken prisoner. Thirty National Army soldiers are also hospitalised as a result of influenzaInfluenzaInfluenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is an infectious disease caused by RNA viruses of the family Orthomyxoviridae , that affects birds and mammals...
. - One Free State soldiers is killed and another badly injured when their truck crashes in Dalkey, Dublin, while driving too fast close to the scene of an ambush on November 15.
- A Free State soldier is killed by a shotgun blast at Lixnaw, Kerry.
- 24 November – Former Treaty negotiator Robert Erskine ChildersRobert Erskine ChildersRobert Erskine Childers DSC , universally known as Erskine Childers, was the author of the influential novel Riddle of the Sands and an Irish nationalist who smuggled guns to Ireland in his sailing yacht Asgard. He was executed by the authorities of the nascent Irish Free State during the Irish...
is executed by the Free State, having been captured in possession of a pistol-which, ironically, had been given to Childers by Michael Collins (Irish leader)Michael Collins (Irish leader)Michael "Mick" Collins was an Irish revolutionary leader, Minister for Finance and Teachta Dála for Cork South in the First Dáil of 1919, Director of Intelligence for the IRA, and member of the Irish delegation during the Anglo-Irish Treaty negotiations. Subsequently, he was both Chairman of the...
. - 25 November – The Anti-Treaty IRA mount an attack at Harcourt Street Dublin. One Anti-Treaty fighter is killed.
- 29 NOvember - A Free State soldier is killed in an ambush at Rearcross, Limeick.
- 30 November – In reprisal for the executions, Liam LynchLiam Lynch (general)Liam Lynch was an officer in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence and the commanding general of the anti-Treaty Irish Republican Army during the Irish Civil War.-Early life:...
, Anti-Treaty IRA Commander, issues a general order to his forces to kill members of the Dáil (T.D.s) and senators who had voted for the Emergency Powers legislation. He also orders the killing of hostile judges and newspaper editors. - Three Anti-Treaty IRA prisoners are executed by firing squad in Dublin for possession of arms.
- Anti-Treaty IRA officer Patrick Lynch is killed in a Free State raid on his home in Moyrisk, County Kerry.
- Two National Army soldiers are killed in an action at Ballinamult, WoodhouseWoodhouse- Places :*Annesley Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire, England*Dronfield Woodhouse, Derbyshire, England*Holbeck Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire, England*Horsley Woodhouse, Derbyshire, England*Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire, England*Over Woodhouse, Derbyshire, England...
, County WaterfordCounty Waterford*Abbeyside, Affane, Aglish, Annestown, An Rinn, Ardmore*Ballinacourty, Ballinameela, Ballinamult, Ballinroad, Ballybeg, Ballybricken, Ballyduff Lower, Ballyduff Upper, Ballydurn, Ballygunner, Ballylaneen, Ballymacarbry, Ballymacart, Ballynaneashagh, Ballysaggart, Ballytruckle, Bilberry, Bunmahon,...
. - Anti-Treaty fighters ambush Free State troops near TubbercurryTubbercurryTubbercurry or Tobercurry is a town in County Sligo, Ireland. It lies at the foot of the Ox Mountains, on the N17 national primary road.Tubbercurry has a very active Tidy Towns Project which is setting out to transform the town's visual appearance...
, County Sligo. Two National Army soldiers are killed. - November – members of the South Wexford Brigade I.R.A. (Anti-Treaty) ambush a Lorry near Begerin, Old Ross, carrying Free State soldiers, killing one and wounding seven others.
- November – In several 'sweep' operations, National Army troops capture over 200 Anti-Treaty fighters (including 8 women) in County Kerry in this month, along with a substantial quantity of arms and explosives.
December
- 1 December – After a skirmish on the border of County KildareCounty KildareCounty Kildare is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Mid-East Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Kildare. Kildare County Council is the local authority for the county...
and County MeathCounty MeathCounty Meath is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Mid-East Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the ancient Kingdom of Mide . Meath County Council is the local authority for the county...
, the Meath Anti-Treaty IRA column, consisting of 22 men under Paddy Mullally is captured. The Republicans attack a Free State supply column near Leixlip. One Republican and one Free State soldier are killed in the action and three Republicans are wounded. Five of the Anti-Treaty men, who had previously deserted from the National Army, are executed in Dublin on 8 January 1923 for 'treachery'. - Several hundred National Army troops mount a major operation in Dublin, setting up checkpoints at all major roads in an effort to halt the daily small scale ambushes in the city. They stop and search all in-coming traffic and male civilians for arms. Three men are found carrying weapons and detained. The military barracks at TallaghtTallaghtTallaght is the largest town, and county town, of South Dublin County, Ireland. The village area, dating from at least the 17th century, held one of the earliest settlements known in the southern part of the island, and one of medieval Ireland's more important monastic centres.Up to the 1960s...
, County Dublin is attacked that night. Four Free State soldiers are wounded by gunfire. - Dublin GuardDublin GuardThe Dublin Guard was a unit of the Irish Republican Army, in the Irish War of Independence and then of the Irish National Army during the Irish Civil War 1922-23.-Foundation:...
troops end a week of sweeps in Kerry, having raided Rathmore, Killcummin and Barraduff, capturing 39 Anti-Treaty IRA men as well as arms and equipment. A separate sweep in the Currow/Scartaglen area takes another 15 prisoners and 4 more are captured elsewhere in the county. - 4 December – A party of 60 Republican fighters ambushes a Free State convoy of two lorries on Drimoleague Road, near DunmanwayDunmanwayDunmanway is a town in County Cork, in the southwest of Ireland. It is the geographical centre of the region known as West Cork. It is probably best known as the birthplace of Sam Maguire, an Irish Protestant republican, for whom the trophy of the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship is...
in West Cork. One National Army sergeant is killed. The National Army troops call for air support and an aeroplane bombs and machine guns the Anti-Treaty fighters before they disperse. Press reports say they suffered, 'many casualties'. - Early December – Kenmare, County Kerry (captured by Republicans on September 9) is re-taken by Free State troops under General Murphy.
- 6 December – the Irish Free State is formally established by the British House of Commons.
- National Army troops encounter 80 republicans at Kilcash, County Tipperary occupying a hill top position. A fire fight breaks out that lasts for three hours. Two Republicans are killed, four wounded and eleven captured. The remainder of their column gets way by burning the furze bushes to cover their retreat. Free State troops have three men wounded.
- 7 December – Former IRA men in the War of Independence and pro-Treaty TD, Seán HalesSean HalesSean Hales was an Irish political activist in the early 20th century. Hales was born in Ballinadee, County Cork, where he and his brothers Tom, Donal and Robert were involved in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence.At the 1921 elections Hales was elected to the Second...
is shot dead by Anti-Treaty gunmen on Ormonde Quay as he set out for Leinster HouseLeinster HouseLeinster House is the name of the building housing the Oireachtas, the national parliament of Ireland.Leinster House was originally the ducal palace of the Dukes of Leinster. Since 1922, it is a complex of buildings, of which the former ducal palace is the core, which house Oireachtas Éireann, its...
. Another TD, Padraic O MaillePádraic Ó MáillePádraic Ó Máille was an Irish politician. He was born in County Galway and was a farmer. He was a founder member of Sinn Féin and of the Gaelic League in Galway. He was a member of the Irish Volunteers from 1917–1921....
is also shot and wounded in the incident. - One Anti-Treaty fighter is killed in a skirmish in Ballintubber, Kilfinane, in County Limerick.
- A Free State patrol is ambushed on Harcourt Street, Dublin, one civilian, a waitress in a hotel, is shot dead in the crossfire.
- 8 December – Anti-Treaty leaders captured in the Four Courts in July, Rory O'ConnorRory O'Connor (Irish republican)Rory O'Connor was an Irish republican activist. He is best remembered for his role in the Irish Civil War 1922-1923, which led to his execution.-Background:...
, Liam MellowsLiam MellowsLiam Mellows was an Irish Republican and Sinn Féin politician. Born in England, Mellows grew up in County Wexford in Ireland. He was active with the Irish Republican Brotherhood and Irish Volunteers, and participated in the Easter Rising in County Galway, and the War of Independence...
, Dick BarrettRichard Barrett (Irish Republican)Richard Barrett was a prominent Irish Republican Army volunteer who was executed during the Irish Civil War in 1922.-War of Independence:...
and Joe McKelveyJoe McKelveyJoe McKelvey was an Irish Republican Army officer who was executed during the Irish Civil War. He participated in the anti-Treaty IRA's repudiation of the authority of the Dáil in March 1922 and was elected to the IRA Army Executive...
are executed by the Free State in revenge for the killing of Seán Hales. This is an illegal act, as the four were captured before the Dáil passed its emergency legislation. - 8 December – Two Anti-Treaty fighters are killed in an action at Kealkil, Cork.
- 9 December – Republican raid on the barracks in SligoSligoSligo is the county town of County Sligo in Ireland. The town is a borough and has a charter and a town mayor. It is sometimes referred to as a city, and sometimes as a town, and is the second largest urban area in Connacht...
town. One Free State soldier is killed. - 10 December – Anti-Treaty IRA members burn down the house of TD Sean McGarrySean McGarrySeán McGarry was a 20th century Irish nationalist and politician. A longtime senior member of the Irish Republican Brotherhood , he served as its president from May 1917 until November 1918 when he was one of a number of nationalist leaders arrested for his alleged involvement in the so-called...
, his seven-year-old son dies in the blaze. - 13 December – 100 Republican fighters under Tom BarryTom BarryThomas Barry was one of the most prominent guerrilla leaders in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence.-Early life:...
take Carrick on Suir in a surprise attack, capturing 107 rifles, two Lewis gunLewis GunThe Lewis Gun is a World War I–era light machine gun of American design that was perfected and widely used by the British Empire. It was first used in combat in World War I, and continued in service with a number of armed forces through to the end of the Korean War...
s and two armoured cars. They do not attempt to hold the town however. - An Anti-Treaty column of ten men at Moore's Bridge, County KildareCounty KildareCounty Kildare is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Mid-East Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Kildare. Kildare County Council is the local authority for the county...
is surprised by a National Army raid and captured. One of the Anti-Treaty men is killed, allegedly due to a beating with rifle butts, though the troops claim he was shot trying to escape. Seven of the others are executed in Dublin on 19 December. They had ambushed a Free State patrol on 25 November and derailed two trains on 11 December. - 14 December – Free State garrisons at ThomastownThomastown-Landmarks:Kilfane Glen is a restored historic 1790s garden of romantic era with waterfall, woodland walks and cottage orne. The garden is listed as an Irish Heritage garden and was awarded assistance in 1993 by the European Union Cultural Commission...
and MullinavatMullinavatMullinavat is a town in south County Kilkenny, Ireland. Its main industries are tourism and agriculture. It has a renowned sporting history, particularly in hurling.-Location and access:...
in County Kilkenny surrender to the Republican column under Tom Barry, which took two other towns the day before. The Free State troops hand over their arms and in some cases join the Republicans. - 15 December – 70 Anti-Treaty IRA fighters ambush a Free State patrol between Rathmore and Barraduff. There is a gun battle of several hours, in which one National Army soldier is fatally wounded. The Army claims that the Republicans took "heavy casualties" in the action. The local priest tries to prevent the ambush and mobilises local people to remove a roadblock. The IRA in response seize his 4 of his cattle.
- 17 December – the last British troops leave the Free State. They are the remnants of a 5,000 strong garrison maintained up to that point in Dublin, commanded by Nevil MacreadyNevil MacreadyGeneral Sir Cecil Frederick Nevil Macready, 1st Baronet, GCMG, KCB, PC , known as Sir Nevil Macready and affectionately as Make-Ready , was a British Army officer...
. - 19 December – Seven Republican fighters, all from County KildareCounty KildareCounty Kildare is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Mid-East Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Kildare. Kildare County Council is the local authority for the county...
, are executed in Dublin. They had been captured on 13 December. - 20 December, Pro-Treaty politician Seamus DwyerSéamus DwyerSéamus Dwyer was an Irish politician. He was elected unopposed at the 1921 elections for the Dublin County constituency as a Sinn Féin Teachta Dála in the 2nd Dáil. He voted in favour of the Anglo-Irish Treaty...
is shot dead at his shop in RathminesRathminesRathmines is a suburb on the southside of Dublin, about 3 kilometres south of the city centre. It effectively begins at the south side of the Grand Canal and stretches along the Rathmines Road as far as Rathgar to the south, Ranelagh to the east and Harold's Cross to the west.Rathmines has...
, Dublin by Anti-Treaty fighters. - 22 December – A CID Assistant Inspector is wounded in an attak at Ellis Quay, Dublin and dies of his wounds on 29 December.
- 23 December – There are gun and grenade attacks on National Army troops in Dublin, one Free State soldier is killed.
- The Free State releases 300 republican prisoners who are no longer considered a threat to national security.
- 24 December – A priest in Curragheen, County Kerry, alerts the local Free State garrison to the presence of the local Anti-Treaty guerrilla column at Midnight MassMidnight MassMidnight Mass is a Christmas Eve liturgical tradition in the Roman Catholic church.Midnight Mass may also refer to:* Midnight, Mass., a Vertigo comics series* Midnight Mass, a 2004 novel by F...
. 22 of them are captured when National Army troops raid the church. - 28 December – Republican Francis Lawlor is abducted by Free State forces in Dublin, killed and his body dumped at Orwell Road, RathgarRathgarRathgar is a suburb of Dublin, Ireland, lying about 3 kilometres south of the city centre.-Amenities:Rathgar is largely a quiet suburb with good amenities, including primary and secondary schools, nursing homes, child-care and sports facilities, and good public transport to the city centre...
. - 29 December – Two Anti-Treaty men are executed by the Free State in KilkennyKilkennyKilkenny is a city and is the county town of the eponymous County Kilkenny in Ireland. It is situated on both banks of the River Nore in the province of Leinster, in the south-east of Ireland...
. - A Free State foot patrol is ambushed by an IRA column near CastlegregoryCastlegregoryCastlegregory is a village in County Kerry, Ireland. It is situated on the north side of the Dingle Peninsula, halfway between Tralee and Dingle. Castlegregory has a population of 205 ....
, County Kerry. Two soldiers are killed and two wounded. Their post in the village is burned. The National Army in Tralee threaten to execute four republican prisoners in reprisal but after a legal appeal their sentence is commuted to penal servitude - There is a bomb planted at CID headquarters at Oriel House, Dublin. One Free State soldier is killed and two wounded in the explosion. Two civilians are also wounded.
January
- 4 January – A column of 65 Anti-Treaty fighters from Cork and Kerry IRA units, under Tom Barry, attacks MillstreetMillstreetMillstreet is a town in north County Cork, Ireland with a population of approximately 1,500. It is located at the foot of Clara Mountain. The town's Catholic church is dedicated to St. Patrick. Since October 1985, the town has been twinned with Pommerit-le-Vicomte in Brittany, France...
, Cork, under cover of darkness. They use 12 machine guns and take three National Army posts in the town, taking 39 prisoners and capturing one Lewis gun and 35 rifles. However they fail to take the main post in the Town Hall, held by 23 Free State soldiers. They withdraw after several hours – one party to Ballyvourney in Cork and the other to the Pap mountains in Kerry. Two Free State soldiers are killed and several more wounded. The National Army reports six Anti-Treaty fatalities and 19 wounded but the Republicans admit to only three wounded. - 6 January – Skirmish at BallyconnellBallyconnellBallyconnell is a town in County Cavan, Ireland. It is situated on the N87 national secondary road at the junction of four townlands Annagh, Cullyleenan, Doon and Derryginny in the parish of Tomregan, Barony of Tullyhaw. The town has an altitude of 55 metres above sea level...
on the Leitrim-Fermanagh border, Anti-Treaty IRA captain Michael Cull killed. - 9 January – Anti-Treaty IRA men burn the home of Free State Senator John Philip BagwellJohn Philip BagwellJohn Philip Bagwell DL was the son of Richard Bagwell and Harriette Philippa Jocelyn Newton. The Bagwells of Marlfield could trace their arrival in Ireland to John Bagwell , a Captain in Cromwell's New Model Army.- Business :John Bagwell was general manager of Ireland's Great Northern Railways ...
at Marfield, ClonmelClonmelClonmel is the county town of South Tipperary in Ireland. It is the largest town in the county. While the borough had a population of 15,482 in 2006, another 17,008 people were in the rural hinterland. The town is noted in Irish history for its resistance to the Cromwellian army which sacked both...
, County TipperaryCounty TipperaryCounty Tipperary is a county of Ireland. It is located in the province of Munster and is named after the town of Tipperary. The area of the county does not have a single local authority; local government is split between two authorities. In North Tipperary, part of the Mid-West Region, local...
, including the extensive library built up by his father, historian Richard BagwellRichard BagwellRichard Bagwell was a noted historian of the Stuart and Tudor periods in Ireland, and a political commentator with strong Unionist convictions.He was the eldest son of John Bagwell, M.P. for Clonmel from 1857 to 1874...
. - 8 January – Four Republican prisoners are executed in Dublin. One National Army soldier is also shot for "treachery" for complicity in an Anti-Treaty ambush of Free State troops at LeixlipLeixlip-Politics:Since 1988 Leixlip has had a nine member Town Council , headed by a Cathaoirleach , which has control over many local matters, although it is limited in that it is not also a planning authority...
. - 10 January – Two Anti-Treaty IRA officers are killed in a skirmish with Free State troops near Spelsherstown, County Wexford.
- 11 January – 40 Republicans burn the railway station in Sligo town, destroying it and badly damaging seven engines and forty carriages. The Great Southern and Western Railway Company releases a report detailing the damage Anti-Treaty forces have caused to their property over the previous six months; 375 lines damaged, 42 engines derailed, 51 over-bridges and 207 under-bridges destroyed, 83 signal cabins and 13 other buildings destroyed. In the same month, Republicans destroy the railway stations at Ballybunnion and Listowel.
- 13 January – Three Republican prisoners are executed in DundalkDundalkDundalk is the county town of County Louth in Ireland. It is situated where the Castletown River flows into Dundalk Bay. The town is close to the border with Northern Ireland and equi-distant from Dublin and Belfast. The town's name, which was historically written as Dundalgan, has associations...
. - 15 January – Five Anti-Treaty IRA men are executed by the Free State. Four are shot in RoscreaRoscreaRoscrea is a small heritage town in North Tipperary, Ireland. The town has a population of 4,910. Its main industries include meat processing and pharmaceuticals. It is a civil parish in the historical barony of Ikerrin...
in Tipperary, one in CarlowCarlowCarlow is the county town of County Carlow in Ireland. It is situated in the south-east of Ireland, 84 km from Dublin. County Carlow is the second smallest county in Ireland by area, however Carlow Town is the 14th largest urban area in Ireland by population according to the 2006 census. The...
. - 16 January – Two republican fighters are killed in a skirmish in Tipperary.
- 18 January – Republican leader Liam DeasyLiam DeasyLiam Deasy was an Irish Republican Army officer in the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War of the 1920s.Deasy was born in Bandon in County Cork in 1898....
is captured by Free State troops in the Galtee MountainsGaltee MountainsThe Galtee Mountains or Galty Mountains are a mountain range in Munster, located in Ireland's Golden Vale across parts of counties Limerick, South Tipperary and Cork. The name "Galtee" is thought to be a corruption of the Irish "Sléibhte na gCoillte" - "Mountains of the Forests" in English,...
. He is not executed after he signs an order calling for men under his command to surrender. - 19 January – Republican fighters derail the railway line on the bridge near ArdfertArdfertArdfert is a village in County Kerry, Ireland. Historically a religious centre, the economy of the locality is driven by agriculture and its position as a dormitory town, being only 8 km from Tralee.-Origin:...
, County Kerry. The train crashes, killing its two drivers. - 20 January – Eleven Republican prisoners are executed by the Free State – two in Limerick, four in Tralee and five in Athlone.
- 22 January – Three Anti-Treaty IRA men are executed in Dundalk, having been captured on January 7.
- 23 January – Two Republican prisoners are executed in Waterford.
- 23 January – Two civilian railway drivers are shot in Tralee railway station. One is killed, another is wounded. Republicans are blamed but do not claim the attack. The Railway drivers issue a statement that "neither murder nor intimidation would prevent them from carrying out their duties". Free State soldier Niall Harrington later alleges the culprits were National Army officers.
- An Anti-Treaty IRA column under Tom McEllistrim and John Joe SheehyJohn Joe SheehyJohn Joe Sheehy was an Irish political/military activist and sportsperson. He participated in the Irish War of Independence and Irish Civil War in the Irish Republican Army, where he was a senior figure in County Kerry...
attacks the National Army barracks, containing 60 troops, in Castlemaine, County Kerry. They use an improvised mortar, one of whose rounds makes a direct hit on the barracks. In a subsequent two hour gun battle, one Free State soldier is killed, the town's railway station is burned and the bridge over the river Maine blown up by the Republicans. The National Army reports 4 Anti-Treaty fighters killed. - 25 January – One Free State soldier and one Anti-Treaty fighter are killed in two separate skirmishes in Kerry.
- 26 January – Three men are executed by the Free State in BirrBirrBirr is a town in County Offaly, Ireland. Once called Parsonstown, after the Parsons family who were local landowners and hereditary Earls of Rosse. It is also a parish in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Killaloe....
, County OffalyCounty OffalyCounty Offaly is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Midlands Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the ancient Kingdom of Uí Failghe and was formerly known as King's County until the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922. Offaly County Council is...
for armed robbery. Although not actually IRA members, having been denied entry on the grounds that they were too young, the three had republican connections and claimed as 'republican soldiers' in an Anti-Treaty communique. - 27 January – Two Republican prisoners are executed in Portlaoise. The two are Joseph Byrne and Ptrick Geraghty, commanders of the IRA Offally Brigade. The executions, 'terrorised' the Offaly Anti-Treatyites, who had killed 5 Free State troops up to that point, but killed only 2 after. A total of 22 people are killed in Offaly during the conflict. 8 Free State troops, 11 republicans and 3 civilians.
- The Free State executes a total of 34 Republican prisoners during this month, bringing the total number executed so far up to 53.
- 27 January – Anti-Treaty IRA ambush a party of five National Army soldiers at AbbeyfealeAbbeyfealeAbbeyfeale is a historical market town in County Limerick, Ireland near the boundary with County Kerry. The town is in the midwest of Ireland, some from Newcastle West on the N21 – the main road from Limerick to Tralee.-Geography:...
, County Kerry. A Captain Coyle is killed and three soldiers wounded. Free State troops pursue the IRA column, killing one of them and wounding another two. - 29 January – The Earl of MayoEarl of MayoEarl of the County of Mayo, usually known simply as Earl of Mayo, is a title in the Peerage of Ireland. It was created in 1785 for John Bourke, 1st Viscount Mayo, for many years First Commissioner of Revenue in Ireland...
's house is destroyed and burned by Republicans. - 30 January – Free State Senator John Bagwell is kidnapped in Dublin by Anti-Treaty fighters. Senator O'Sullivan's house is also burned in Killarney, Kerry.
February
- 1 February – Moore HallMoore Hall, County MayoMoore Hall, or Moorehall, the house and estate of George Henry Moore and family, is situated in the barony of Carra, County Mayo in a karst limestone landscape. The Moores were an aristocratic Irish family who built Moore Hall between 1792 and 1795. The first Moore of Moore Hall was George Moore,...
in County Mayo is burned down by Republican guerrillas, because its owner, Maurice Moore is a senator in the Dáil. - 4 February – In Shorne, Rathmore, County Kerry, Anti-Treaty IRA fighter Micheal McSweeney is shot dead by Free State troops.
- 5 February - A party of 50 Anti-Treaty IRA fighters, operating from the Arigna mountains, raid the town of BallyconnellBallyconnellBallyconnell is a town in County Cavan, Ireland. It is situated on the N87 national secondary road at the junction of four townlands Annagh, Cullyleenan, Doon and Derryginny in the parish of Tomregan, Barony of Tullyhaw. The town has an altitude of 55 metres above sea level...
in County Cavan. They shoot dead two Free State supporters and wounded another man. The Post Office was robbed and car dealership blown up. The raid was inrepresial for the shooting of a Republican named Cull the month before in the town. - 8 February – The Free State suspends executions until February 18, offering an amnesty to anyone who surrendered before that day.
- 9 February – Two Anti-Treaty fighters are killed in a skirmish at Poleberry, County Waterford.
- 10 February – Republican officer Tom Barry, after contacts with some former IRA comrades on the Free State side, proposes that the Anti-Treaty IRA call a truce. Liam Lynch turns down the idea.
- 11 February – The Father of Government minister Kevin O'HigginsKevin O'HigginsKevin Christopher O'Higgins was an Irish politician who served as Vice-President of the Executive Council and Minister for Justice. He was part of early nationalist Sinn Féin, before going on to become a prominent member of Cumann na nGaedheal. O'Higgins initiated the An Garda Síochána police force...
is shot dead by Republicans at the family home in Stradbally County LaoisCounty LaoisCounty Laois is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Midlands Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It was formerly known as Queen's County until the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922. The county's name was formerly spelt as Laoighis and Leix. Laois County Council...
. The house is also burnt down. - 13 February – Two Anti-Treaty men are killed in a raid on their dug out at Currahane Strands, County Kerry.
- 15 February – Mansion of senator Brian Mahon in Ballymore EustaceBallymore EustaceBallymore Eustace is a small town situated in County Kildare in Ireland, although until 1836 it lay within a "pocket" of County Dublin...
, County KildareCounty KildareCounty Kildare is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Mid-East Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Kildare. Kildare County Council is the local authority for the county...
is burned down by Anti-Treaty forces. In the remainder of the month, a total of 37 houses of senators are destroyed by the Anti-Treaty IRA. Their owners are mainly big landowners, descendants of the Protestant AscendancyProtestant AscendancyThe Protestant Ascendancy, usually known in Ireland simply as the Ascendancy, is a phrase used when referring to the political, economic, and social domination of Ireland by a minority of great landowners, Protestant clergy, and professionals, all members of the Established Church during the 17th...
and many of them were unionists before Irish independence. Oliver St John Gogarty is another prominent victim of house burnings. He also survives an assassination attempt in Dublin. - 18 February – Up to 1,000 Free-State troops drawn from Cahir, Cashel, Clonmel and Tipperary town encircle the area around the Glen of AherlowGlen of AherlowThe Glen of Aherlow is a picturesque valley nestling between Slievenamuck and the Galtee Mountains in the western part of South Tipperary in Ireland. The principal village is Lisvarrinane or more commonly spelt Lisvernane with a hamlet at Rossadrehid where Aherlow creamery was located before its...
and move in from all sides simultaneously in pursuit of Republican leader Dinny LaceyDinny LaceyDennis Lacey, better known as 'Dinny', was an Irish Republican Army officer during the Irish War of Independence and anti-Treaty IRA officer during the Irish Civil War. Lacey was born in 1890 in a village called Attybrack, near Annacarty, county Tipperary.He joined the Irish Volunteers in 1913 and...
and his IRA column, which is billetted in the Glen. Lacey and one of his men are killed and many of his column are captured, having been surprised in two different safe-houses. Three of the Free-State troops are mortally wounded during the attack on the house. Lacey was the head of the IRA's 2nd Southern Division and his death crippled the Republican's cause in the Tipperary/Waterford area. - 19 February – Anti-Treaty officer Thomas O'Sullivan, head of the local IRA battalion, is shot dead by Free State troops near DingleDingleDingle is a town in County Kerry, Ireland. The only town on the Dingle Peninsula, it sits on the Atlantic coast, about 49 kilometres southwest of Tralee and 71 kilometres northwest of Killarney....
. - 21 February – Anti-Treaty IRA attacks income taxIncome taxAn income tax is a tax levied on the income of individuals or businesses . Various income tax systems exist, with varying degrees of tax incidence. Income taxation can be progressive, proportional, or regressive. When the tax is levied on the income of companies, it is often called a corporate...
offices in Dublin. Attempts are also made to burn Jury's Hotel, but without success. There are also abortive attacks on Merrion Square, Dawson Street, and Lower O'Connell Street. However tax offices are destroyed at Nassau st, Gardiner st and Beresford Place. A total of 75 Republicans are involved in the action, of whom five are captured. - 23 February – Free State troops ambushed by Anti-Treaty fighters at Shramore, County Mayo. One National Army soldier and a medical orderly are killed.
- An Anti-Treaty column is surprised by National Army troops near Cluid, County Galway. One republican is killed and eighteen are captured and sentenced to death. Five of the prisoners are later executed.
- 26 February – Meeting of Anti-Treaty IRA officers assembles at Ballinageary in County Tipperary. Officers from the First Southern Division report that, "in a short time we would not have a man left owing to the great number of arrests and casualties". Tom Crofts reports that the Cork Brigades have suffered 29 killed and an unknown number captured in recent actions, "if five men are arrested in each area, we are finished". Nevertheless, Liam Lynch takes the opportunity to issue a statement rejecting the possibility of a truce.
- A National Army soldier is executed in Portlaoise for treachery, having defected to and handed over weapons to the Anti-Treaty IRA.
- 27 February – National Army troops surprise an Anti-Treaty column in their dug out at ArignaArignaArigna is a village in County Roscommon, Ireland. It is near Lough Allen , on a designated "scenic route" between Keadue and Sliabh an Iarainn .-Arigna coal mine:...
, County RoscommonCounty RoscommonCounty Roscommon is a county in Ireland. It is located in the West Region and is also part of the province of Connacht. It is named after the town of Roscommon. Roscommon County Council is the local authority for the county...
. Two Anti-Treaty fighters are killed. - February – Republicans attack Kenmare, County Kerry, but are driven off.
- February – Free State troops sweep County LeitrimCounty LeitrimCounty Leitrim is a county in Ireland. It is located in the West Region and is also part of the province of Connacht. It is named after the village of Leitrim. Leitrim County Council is the local authority for the county...
, searching for a Republican column under Ned Bofin.
March
- 2 March – Anti-Treaty IRA officers in North Tipperary, Paddy Ryan Lacken and Seán Gaynor are captured by the Free State.
- 5 March – A Free state patrol comes upon a 36-man strong Anti-Treaty column about to attack Cahersiveen, County Kerry. The IRA retreat, fighting a rearguard action against pursuing National Army troops through the Garrane mountains. In the running fights, 3 Free State soldiers killed. Two republicans, including one Anti-Treaty engineer (Dan Clifford) are killed, allegedly after being wounded and then falling into the hands of the pro-Treaty troops. Another later died of wounds. The National Army claims that three more Anti-Treaty fighters were killed in the action and carried away by their comrades. Six Anti-Treaty men are captured, five of whom are executed on March 28.
- 6 March – Five Free State soldiers, including three officers are killed by a booby trap mine while clearing a road in KnocknagoshelKnocknagoshelKnocknagoshel, officially Knocknagashel , is a village in County Kerry, Ireland. According to the 2006 census, the population of the village was 760.-History:...
, County Kerry. Another soldier is badly wounded. National Army commander Paddy Daly issues a memorandum that Republican prisoners are to be used to clear mined roads from now on. - 7 March – Nine Republican prisoners are taken from Ballymullen barracks in Tralee to BallyseedyBallyseedyBallyseedy is a townland in County Kerry, Ireland. It was historically situated in the parish of Ballyseedy, within the barony of Trughanacmy. The townland contains a number of notable landmarks, including Ballyseedy Wood, a bridge over the Ballycarty River and a ruined Protestant church...
Cross, ostensibly to clear a mined road. They are then tied together around the landmine, which is then detonated by National army troops. One man, Stephen Fuller, is blown clear by the blast and survives. The eight other prisoners are killed. All of the dead are from IRA Kerry no 1 Brigade. A riot breaks out in Tralee when the troops bring nine coffins back to the town. - A Free State sentry is killed by a sniper outside a barracks in Tralee, Kerry.
- Con Moloney, Adjutant General of the Anti-Treaty IRA, is captured by Free State troops at the Glen of Aherlow, County Tipperary, in Moore's Wood, Rossadrehid.
- An Anti-Treaty IRA column is surrounded and captured by Free State troops at Buckagh, Mayo. One IRA man is killed. The remainder are taken to prison in Galway and sentenced to death, but this sentence is not carried out.
- 8 March – Four more Anti-Treaty IRA prisoners are killed in Kerry by National Army troop from Dublin. They are, as at Ballyseedy the day before, blown up by a mine, ostensibly while clearing a mined road, at Countess Bridge in KillarneyKillarneyKillarney is a town in County Kerry, southwestern Ireland. The town is located north of the MacGillicuddy Reeks, on the northeastern shore of the Lough Lein/Leane which are part of Killarney National Park. The town and its surrounding region are home to St...
. The dead are from IRA Kerry 2 Brigade. One man, Tadhg Coffey, escapes the massacre. - 11 March A civilian suspected of republican sympathies is shot dead on Donore Avenue Dublin by Free State Intelligence officers.
- Kerry, Another Republican prisoner, Seamus Taylor is taken from Kenmare jail to Ballyseedy woods by National Army troops and shot dead.
- 12 March – Five Republican prisoners (this time from IRA Kerry no. 3 Brigade) are killed at Cahersiveen, Kerry. They are taken from a National Army post in the town at gunpoint by Dublin Guard officers, under protest from the garrison. The prisoners are then shot in the legs to prevent escape and then blown up by a landmine by National Army troops.
- 13 March – Three Republican prisoners from Wexford IRA units are executed in WexfordWexfordWexford is the county town of County Wexford, Ireland. It is situated near the southeastern corner of Ireland, close to Rosslare Europort. The town is connected to Dublin via the M11/N11 National Primary Route, and the national rail network...
town. Two other Republicans are executed, one in Cork and the other in Dublin. The Republican 'government' issues a statement announcing a period of mourning and forbidding all public entertainments such as sporting events while executions of their men continue. - 14 March – Two Republicans are executed for their part in a bank robbery in MullingarMullingarMullingar is the county town of County Westmeath in Ireland. The Counties of Meath and Westmeath Act of 1542, proclaimed Westmeath a county, separating it from Meath. Mullingar became the administrative centre for County Westmeath...
. - Two National Army soldiers are shot and killed in Dublin. One is seized when unarmed and off duty in PortobelloPortobello, DublinIn Dublin, Portobello is an area stretching westwards from South Richmond Street as far as Upper Clanbrassil Street bordered on the north by the South Circular Road and on the south by the Grand Canal....
and shot in the head. The other is killed in an exchange of fire when he tries to search two republican fighters near Mountjoy PrisonMountjoy PrisonMountjoy Prison , founded as Mountjoy Gaol, nicknamed The Joy, is a medium security prison located in Phibsboro in the centre of Dublin, Ireland. It has the largest prison population in Ireland.The current prison governor is Mr...
. - Anti-Treaty IRA officer Charlie DalyCharlie Daly (Irish republican)Charlie Daly was born 10th August 1896, was the second son of Con. W. Daly, of Knockanescoulten, Firies, County Kerry.He went to school, first to Balyfinane National School, and later to the Christian Brothers at Tralee....
and three other Republican fighters are executed by Free State troops at Drumboe CastleDrumboe CastleDrumboe Castle is located in County Donegal, Ireland. It is infamous for being the location of the Drumboe massacre during the Irish Civil War....
, near StranorlarStranorlarStranorlar is a small town in the Finn Valley of County Donegal, in Ireland. Stranorlar and Ballybofey form the Twin Towns.-Transport:...
in County DonegalCounty DonegalCounty Donegal is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Border Region and is also located in the province of Ulster. It is named after the town of Donegal. Donegal County Council is the local authority for the county...
where they had been held since January. They are executed in reprisal for the death of a Free State soldier in a nearby ambush the day before. - 15 March – Anti-Treaty officer John Kevins killed in BeaufortBeaufort, County Kerry- See also :* List of towns and villages in Ireland...
, County Kerry. - A Free State soldier is shot dead near Wellington Barracks, Dublin.
- 16 March – National Army troops sweep the vicinity of Newport in County Mayo, resulting in some arrests.
- Anti-Treaty fighters explode a bomb at the Customs and Excise Offices in Dublin. One CID man is killed and another wounded.
- 17 March – A major boxingBoxingBoxing, also called pugilism, is a combat sport in which two people fight each other using their fists. Boxing is supervised by a referee over a series of between one to three minute intervals called rounds...
match between Mike McTigueMike McTigue"Bold" Mike McTigue was the light heavyweight boxing champion of the world from 1923-1925....
and Battling SikiBattling SikiBattling Siki , aka Louis Mbarick Fall, was a French light heavyweight boxer born in Senegal who fought from 1912–1925, and briefly reigned as the lineal light heavyweight champion after knocking out Georges Carpentier...
takes place in Dublin city centre, despite the Anti-Treaty prohibition of public entertainments. A battalion of Free State troops guards the fight on Princes street. Anti-Treaty fighters detonate a mine beside the theatre and fire on the spectators after the fight. - 23 March – A detachment of National Army troops surrounds a house on Albert Road, DalkeyDalkeyDalkey is suburb of Dublin and seaside resort in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County, Ireland. It was founded as a Viking settlement and became an important port during the Middle Ages. According to John Clyn, it was one of the ports through which the plague entered Ireland in the mid-14th century...
, County Dublin, which contains six Anti-Treaty fighters. One Free State soldier is killed and two wounded when the house is stormed, one Republican is also killed and another is wounded in the fire fight. The remaining four and a woman civilian are arrested. Some arms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition are seized by the Free State troops. In a separate incident, another Anti-Treaty fighter is killed in RathminesRathminesRathmines is a suburb on the southside of Dublin, about 3 kilometres south of the city centre. It effectively begins at the south side of the Grand Canal and stretches along the Rathmines Road as far as Rathgar to the south, Ranelagh to the east and Harold's Cross to the west.Rathmines has...
. - March – In retaliation for the execution of three Wexford Republicans on 13 March, Bob LambertBob LambertRobert James Hamilton "Bob" Lambert was an Irish cricketer. A right-handed batsman and a right-arm off spin bowler, he played 51 times for the Ireland cricket team between 1893 and 1930, including 23 first-class matches, captaining them on thirteen occasions...
, the local Republican officer, orders the killing of three National Army soldiers captured while drinking at a pub in the county. The soldiers were taken by Anti-Treaty IRA from a Public House at Ballagh, parish of Adamstown. They were taken to the village of Adamstown where they were shot dead later that night or early next morning, on 24 March 1923. A fourth Free State soldier, John Croke, was badly wounded when he was shot in the leg when he resisted the Anti-Treaty IRA as they initially entered the Pub. - 24 March – Anti-Treaty IRA executive meets in County Tipperary to discuss the war's future. Tom BarryTom BarryThomas Barry was one of the most prominent guerrilla leaders in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence.-Early life:...
proposes a motion to end the war, but it is defeated by 6 votes to 5. Éamon de Valera is allowed to attend, after some debate, but is given no voting rights. - 25 March – Republican leader in Leitrim, Ned Bofin and many of his men are captured in the Arigna Mountains.
- Free State soldiers in Wexford shot dead Michael Furlong (of Ballagh) at Oldcourt, in revenge for the previous days killing of three Free State troops as they suspected that he was an Anti-Treaty IRA member (he had fought in the recent Irish War of Independence in the IRA).
- 27 March – William Johnson of IFS Citizens' Defence ForceCitizens' Defence ForceThe Citizens' Defence Force was a unit of former British Army soldiers and Irish Volunteers organised by Ireland as a semi-secret group of about 100 operatives. It was financed from the Secret Service budget to mount foot patrols and gather intelligence, and was eventually absorbed into the CID ....
killed by IFS Lt. Frank TeelingFrank TeelingFrancis 'Frank' Teeling was a member of the Irish Republican Army and one of Michael Collins' Squad who took part in the assassinations of members of the Cairo Gang on Bloody Sunday.-Background:...
; Teeling found guilty of manslaughter and serves 18 months. - 28 March – Five Republicans who were captured in the Anti-Treaty IRA's 5 March attack on Cahersiveen, Kerry are executed by firing squad.
- 29 March – Anti-Treaty fighter Bobby Bondfield is arrested on St. Stephen's GreenSt. Stephen's GreenSt Stephen's Green is a city centre public park in Dublin, Ireland. The park is adjacent to one of Dublin's main shopping streets, Grafton Street, and to a shopping centre named for it, while on its surrounding streets are the offices of a number of public bodies and the city terminus of one of...
in Dublin by W. T. Cosgrave's CID bodyguards. He is shot dead and dumped in Clondalkin. - Republicans attempt to burn and lay a land mine in Burton HallBurton HallBurton Hall is in the small village of Burton to the southeast of the larger village of Tarvin, Cheshire, England. It has been designated by English Heritage as a Grade II* listed building....
, the home of the Guinness familyGuinness familyThe Guinness family is an extensive aristocratic Irish Protestant family noted for their accomplishments in brewing, banking, politics and religious ministry...
, one of whom is a senator. The fire fails to ignite and the mine is defused by Free State troops. - Press reports that Free State troops have arrested 16 republican fighters around the country.
- An Anti-Treaty fighter named Murphy is captured near Tralee, Kerry, and then shot dead by Free State troops, his body is found in Knocknagoshel.
- 30 March, four Anti-Treaty IRA fighters are killed in an in an action in County Wexford, between WexfordWexfordWexford is the county town of County Wexford, Ireland. It is situated near the southeastern corner of Ireland, close to Rosslare Europort. The town is connected to Dublin via the M11/N11 National Primary Route, and the national rail network...
town and EnniscorthyEnniscorthyEnniscorthy is the second largest town in County Wexford, Ireland. The population of the town and environs is 9538. The Placenames Database of Ireland sheds no light on the origins of the town's name. It may refer either to the "Island of Corthaidh" or the "Island of Rocks". With a history going...
. A party of National Army troops was travelling from Wexford to Enniscorthy, heavy machine-gun fire was opened on them, when reinforcements arrived from Wexford Military barracks the fighting had ceased but the reinforcements pursued the attackers, it was during this pursuit that the four men were killed
April
- 1 April – Anti-Treaty IRA men ambush a National Army bicycleBicycleA bicycle, also known as a bike, pushbike or cycle, is a human-powered, pedal-driven, single-track vehicle, having two wheels attached to a frame, one behind the other. A person who rides a bicycle is called a cyclist, or bicyclist....
patrol on Larkin's Road, in County LouthCounty LouthCounty Louth is a county of Ireland. It is part of the Border Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Louth. Louth County Council is the local authority for the county...
. One man is killed on either side in the engagement. - April – National Army troops under General ProutJohn T. ProutJohn T. Prout was an Irish American soldier. He held one of the senior commands in the Irish Army during the Irish Civil War...
conduct large sweeps of the Knockmealdown MountainsKnockmealdown MountainsThe Knockmealdown Mountains are a mountain range located on the border of counties South Tipperary and Waterford in Ireland, running east and west between the two counties. The highest peak of the range is Knockmealdown, situated in County Waterford...
in south Tipperary and Waterford. They have extracted information from Republican prisoners in Dublin that the IRA Executive is in the area. Prominent Anti-Treaty IRA officers captured in the operation include Dan BreenDan BreenDaniel "Dan" Breen was a volunteer in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War. In later years, he was a Fianna Fáil politician.-Background:...
, Todd AndrewsTodd AndrewsChristopher Stephen "Todd" Andrews was an Irish political activist and public servant. He participated in the Irish War of Independence and Civil War as a political and military activist in the Irish Republican movement. Todd Andrews never ran for election and was never a government minister...
, Seán Gaynor and Frank Barrett. Many other rank and file Republicans are also taken prisoner. - The Anti-Treaty IRA in Kerry shoot an informer and dump his body near Killorglin. Another civilian informer, a railway worker Cornelius Hannafin, is kidnapped and taken to a remote spot for interrogation.
- 3 April – Anti-Treaty IRA members Christy Breslin and Joseph Kiernan, are arrested by Free State forces at Georges Street, Dublin and killed at CabraCabra, DublinCabra is a suburb on the northside of Dublin city in Ireland. It is approximately northwest of the city centre, in the administrative area of Dublin City Council. It was commonly known as Cabragh until the early 20th century.- Transport and access:...
. Another, James Tierney, is killed later. - Two National Army Intelligence officers are abducted while in plainclothes and unarmed near Barne, Tipperary and killed by Anti-Treaty forces. Their bodies are dumped in nearby cemetery.
- Anti-Treaty Volunteer Jerome Lyons is shot dead whilst under interrogation in Kickham Barracks, Clonmel.
- 5 April – Senior Republican leaders Tom Derrig and Moss Twomey are captured by Free State troops on Raglan Road, in BallsbridgeBallsbridgeBallsbridge is a suburb of Dublin, Ireland, named for the bridge spanning the River Dodder on the south side of the city. The sign on the bridge still proclaims it as "Ball's Bridge" in recognition of the fact that the original bridge in this location was built and owned by a Mr...
, in Dublin. - 6 April – In Kerry, Free State troops mount an operation aimed at rescuing Hannafin, an informer held by the Anti-Treaty IRA. They raid a village at Derrynafeana near Carrauntoohil , where he is being held. Two Anti-Treaty fighters are killed in a resulting skirmish and two more captured. The National Army claims a total of nine Anti-Treaty fighters were killed. Most of the IRA column gets away into the mountains. Hannifin is freed. He had previously been made to dig his own grave prior to his imminent execution.
- 9 April – Anti-Treaty fighters cross the CorribCorribCorrib has multiple meanings. Among the possible ones are:*Lough Corrib, a lake in the west of Ireland, north of Galway.*River Corrib, a river connecting Lough Corrib to Galway Bay through the city of Galway....
in boats from OughterardOughterardOughterard is a small town on the banks of the Owenriff River close to the western shore of Lough Corrib in County Galway, Ireland. The population of the town in 2006 was 1,305...
and attack the Free State Army barracks at HeadfordHeadfordHeadford is a town in County Galway, located 26 km north of Galway city in the west of Ireland. The N84 national secondary route from Galway to Castlebar passes through the town. The R333 road travels from Headford to Tuam. There are many other 'boreens' and third-class roads on the...
, County GalwayCounty GalwayCounty Galway is a county in Ireland. It is located in the West Region and is also part of the province of Connacht. It is named after the city of Galway. Galway County Council is the local authority for the county. There are several strongly Irish-speaking areas in the west of the county...
. They detonate a mine against the wall of the barracks and then open fire. The gun battle continues until Free State reinforcements arrive and the irregulars withdraw. The Free State troops lose two soldiers killed and five wounded. Two republicans are killed and more wounded. More Anti-Treaty men are captured in the aftermath of the attack. - 10 April – Liam LynchLiam Lynch (general)Liam Lynch was an officer in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence and the commanding general of the anti-Treaty Irish Republican Army during the Irish Civil War.-Early life:...
, Republican Commander in Chief, is killed in a skirmish with Free State troops in the Knockmealdown mountains in County Tipperary. He and a group of republicans are caught on a hillside armed only with side-arms and Lynch is shot while attempting to flee. Four more senior Republican officers are captured in the incident. This is part of the same sweep that had captured several other senior republicans a few days earlier. Lynch's death is often cited as the effective end of the war. - 11 April – Six Republican prisoners are executed by firing squad in TuamTuamTuam is a town in County Galway, Ireland. The name is pronounced choo-um . It is situated west of the midlands of Ireland, and north of Galway city.-History:...
, County Galway. - Waterford Anti-Treaty IRA Flying Column Leader Tom KeatingTom KeatingFor the football player of the same name see Tom Keating .For the priest and author of the same name see Thomas Keating....
is mortally wounded. He is transported in a horse and dray and is denied medical attention. The Dungarvan parish priest permits only one mass to be offered for him. - A National Army report states, "Events of the past few days point to the beginning of the end as a far as the irregular campaign is concerned".
- 13 April – Three republican fighters are surprised and captured in a dug out near Gortaglanna, Kerry. One is shot dead, the other two are taken prisoner.
- 14 April – Austin StackAustin StackAustin Stack was an Irish revolutionary and politician.-Early life:Stack was born in Ballymullen, Tralee, County Kerry. He was educated at the Christian Brothers School in Tralee. At the age of fourteen he left school and became a clerk in a solicitor's office. A gifted Gaelic footballer, he...
, Deputy IRA Chief of Staff, is captured by Free State troops near BallymacarbryBallymacarbryBallymacarbry is a village in County Waterford, Ireland with an approximate population of 200 people.-Location:It is situated on the R672 regional road, approximately 17 km. from Clonmel and 24 km. from Dungarvan...
. He is carrying a document accepting a proposal by the Catholic Bishop of Cashel to end the war by calling a ceasefire and dumping arms. - 14 April – Free-State forces converge on a ruined castle at Castleblake, County Kilkenny after receiving information that it was being used as a dugout by the Republicans. Free State Lieutenant Kennedy calls on the occupants to surrender and fires three shots through the door. A grenade is thrown from inside the shelter, mortally wounding Lieutenant Kennedy. Free-State troops then rush the building. Two republican fighters(Ned Somers and Theo English) are killed in the firefight and several others captured.
- 15 April – A fire-fight between an Anti-Treaty IRA column and Free State troops takes place at Glenvar, Kerry. The Free State claims that nine Republicans were killed in the action.
- 18 April – Anti-Treaty IRA column under Timothy Lyons (known as "Aeroplane") is surrounded by Free State troops near Kerry HeadKerry HeadKerry Head is a headland located in County Kerry, Ireland that stretches into the Atlantic Ocean just north of Banna Strand. On the southern edge of the headland sits Ballyheigue....
. They take refuges in caves on the coast. Two Free State soldiers are killed when they try to storm the cave. After three days siege, landmines are lowered over the cave mouths and exploded, killing three Republicans. Lyons is also drowned in the incident. The remaining IRA men surrender. This is the last significant engagement of the civil war in Kerry. Roughly 180 people have been killed in the county, of whom 85 are Free State troops, 72 are Anti-Treaty fighters and 12 are civilians. - 18 April, Six Anti-Treaty fighters are executed in TuamTuamTuam is a town in County Galway, Ireland. The name is pronounced choo-um . It is situated west of the midlands of Ireland, and north of Galway city.-History:...
County Galway. - 19 April - Two Anti-Treaty fighters are killed in action at Kealkil, West Cork.
- 20 April – Frank AikenFrank AikenFrank Aiken was a commander of the Irish Republican Army and later an Irish politician. A founding-member of Fianna Fáil, Aiken was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1923 and at each subsequent election until 1973...
is elected IRA Chief of Staff. - 21 April – An Anti-Treaty IRA captain, Martin Hogan, is abducted and killed in Dublin, his body is found in Drumcondra.
- 22 April – Free State troops surround Frank Aiken, Paidrag Quinn and Sean Quinn, the leaders of the Anti-Treaty forces in the Dundalk area, in a safe house in CastlebellinghamCastlebellinghamCastlebellingham is a village and townland in County Louth, Ireland. The village has got a lot quieter since the construction of the new M1 motorway which bypasses the village...
. A firefight breaks out in which the two Quinns are wounded, Sean mortally and subsequently captured. In the confusion, Aiken manages to slip away. - 24 April – Free State troops take a republican prisoner, Daniel Murphy, to Knocknagoshel, where 5 National Army troops had been killed on March 6 and shoot him dead.
- 25 April – Three Anti-Treaty prisoners are executed in Tralee.
- 26 April – One Anti-Treaty fighter is executed in EnnisEnnisEnnis is the county town of Clare in Ireland. Situated on the River Fergus, it lies north of Limerick and south of Galway. Its name is a shortening of the original ....
. - 30 April – Frank Aiken, new Anti-Treaty IRA Commander, calls a ceasefireCeasefireA ceasefire is a temporary stoppage of a war in which each side agrees with the other to suspend aggressive actions. Ceasefires may be declared as part of a formal treaty, but they have also been called as part of an informal understanding between opposing forces...
.
May
- Early May – 12,000 Republicans have been interned by Free State up to this point.
- First week of May – A major Free State sweep in County Cork takes the last rural areas held by the republicans in the county at BallyvourneyBallyvourneyBaile Bhuirne , anglicised as Ballyvourney is a Gaeltacht village in south-west County Cork, Ireland. It is a civil parish in the barony of Muskerry West and is also one half of the Ecclesiastical parish of Baile Bhuirne agus Cúil Aodha in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cloyne-Location and...
and BallymakeeraBallymakeeraBaile Mhic Íre is a small Gaeltacht village in the valley of the River Sullane in County Cork, Ireland. It is on the N22 national primary road and forms part of the twin villages of Ballymakeery and Ballyvourney...
. Historian Peter Hart puts the casualties for the civil war in the county at 180 killed and 295 wounded. Of the dead, 70 are National Army, 51 are Anti-Treaty IRA, 28 are civilians and the status of 30 is undetermined. - 2 May – Two Republican prisoners are executed in Ennis, County Clare.
- 14 May – Joint meeting of the Republican Government and IRA Army Executive instructs Aiken to end the war.
- 15 May – Anti-Treaty IRA column surrounded at ValleymountValleymountValleymount is a small village in western County Wicklow, Ireland. Neighbouring villages are Hollywood, Ballymore Eustace, Blessington, Ballyknockan and Lacken.-Location and transport:...
, County WicklowCounty WicklowCounty Wicklow is a county in Ireland. It is part of the Mid-East Region and is also located in the province of Leinster. It is named after the town of Wicklow, which derives from the Old Norse name Víkingalág or Wykynlo. Wicklow County Council is the local authority for the county...
. Its leader, Ned Plunkett, is killed and the rest surrender. - 24 May – Frank Aiken orders the Anti-Treaty fighters to "dump their arms" and return home. Éamon de ValeraÉamon de ValeraÉamon de Valera was one of the dominant political figures in twentieth century Ireland, serving as head of government of the Irish Free State and head of government and head of state of Ireland...
supports the order, issuing a statement to Anti-Treaty fighters; "Further sacrifice on your part would now be in vain and the continuance of the struggle in arms unwise in the national interest. Military victory must be allowed to rest for the moment with those who have destroyed the Republic". End of the war. - 30 May – Two Republicans are executed in Tuam, County Galway.
June
- 22 June – Michael Radford of the South Wexford Brigade I.R.A. (Anti-Treaty) is shot dead by Free State soldiers at Ballybuick, Tomhaggard, Wexford.
July
- 3 July – Noel Lemass, Anti-Treaty IRA officer in Dublin, brother of Seán LemassSeán LemassSeán Francis Lemass was one of the most prominent Irish politicians of the 20th century. He served as Taoiseach from 1959 until 1966....
is abducted by Free State troops and killed. His body is later found in the Wicklow Mountains on October 12.
August
- 15 August – Éamon de Valera arrested in Ennis, when he tried to make an election speech. He is imprisoned for over a year at Arbour Hill PrisonArbour Hill PrisonArbour Hill Prison is a prison and military cemetery located in the Arbour Hill area near Heuston Station in the centre of Dublin, Ireland. The prison is the national centre for male sex offenders.-Architecture:...
in Dublin. - 17 August – Voting in Irish general election, 1923Irish general election, 1923The Irish general election of 1923 was held on 27 August 1923. The newly elected members of the 4th Dáil assembled at Leinster House on 19 September when the new President of the Executive Council and Executive Council of the Irish Free State were appointed. The election was held just after the end...
takes place. Cumann na nGaedheal win 63 seats; Sinn FéinSinn FéinSinn Féin is a left wing, Irish republican political party in Ireland. The name is Irish for "ourselves" or "we ourselves", although it is frequently mistranslated as "ourselves alone". Originating in the Sinn Féin organisation founded in 1905 by Arthur Griffith, it took its current form in 1970...
44; Independents 16; Farmers 15; Labour 14; and Independent Labour 1. About 415,00 first preference votes were given to Pro-Treatyites and 286,000 to Anti-Treatyites. (64% of the electorate voted.) Some of the Anti-Treaty members elected are still imprisoned.
October
- 13 October – A mass Hunger StrikeHunger strikeA hunger strike is a method of non-violent resistance or pressure in which participants fast as an act of political protest, or to provoke feelings of guilt in others, usually with the objective to achieve a specific goal, such as a policy change. Most hunger strikers will take liquids but not...
is launched by 424 Republican prisoners in Mountjoy PrisonMountjoy PrisonMountjoy Prison , founded as Mountjoy Gaol, nicknamed The Joy, is a medium security prison located in Phibsboro in the centre of Dublin, Ireland. It has the largest prison population in Ireland.The current prison governor is Mr...
in Dublin in protest at their continued detention after the war's end. The strike is joined by up to 8,000 Republican prisoners in prisons and camps around the country. - 29 October – the Oriel House CID is disbanded and its members transferred to the Dublin Metropolitan PoliceDublin Metropolitan PoliceThe Dublin Metropolitan Police was the police force of Dublin, Ireland, from 1836 to 1925, when it amalgamated into the new Garda Síochána.-19th century:...
. In April 1925 the DMP was amalgamated with the Garda SíochánaGarda Síochána, more commonly referred to as the Gardaí , is the police force of Ireland. The service is headed by the Commissioner who is appointed by the Irish Government. Its headquarters are located in the Phoenix Park in Dublin.- Terminology :...
. CID was responsible for a number of killings of republicans during the war.
November
- 20 November – Republican prisoner Denny BarryDenny BarryDenis "Denny" Barry was an Irish Republican who died during a hunger strike, shortly after the Irish Civil War.- Early life :...
dies on hunger strike in NewbridgeNewbridge, County KildareThe earliest known mention of Newbridge was by traveller and bookseller John Dunton in 1698, though he does not refer to any settlement other than at Ballymany....
camp. - Two republican prisoners are executed, one each in Athlone and Tralee.
- 22 November – IRA prisoner Andrew Sullivan dies on hunger strike in Mountjoy prison in Dublin.
- 23 November – The republican hunger strike is called off. The women prisoners are released but most of the men are detained until the following year.
December
- 3 December – One gardaGarda Síochána, more commonly referred to as the Gardaí , is the police force of Ireland. The service is headed by the Commissioner who is appointed by the Irish Government. Its headquarters are located in the Phoenix Park in Dublin.- Terminology :...
is killed. - 29 December – Two republicans are executed in KilkennyKilkennyKilkenny is a city and is the county town of the eponymous County Kilkenny in Ireland. It is situated on both banks of the River Nore in the province of Leinster, in the south-east of Ireland...
.
March
- 18 March – Army Mutineers assembled in Dublin. The army council resigned affirming the subservience of the military to the civilian government.
- 21 March – An attack on British Soldiers/Sailors and civilians at Queenstown CobhCobhCobh is a seaport town on the south coast of County Cork, Ireland. Cobh is on the south side of Great Island in Cork Harbour. Facing the town are Spike Island and Haulbowline Island...
} is mounted by Irregulars with Armored car and firing on HMS Scythe; 1 killed and 23 wounded. See
November
- Shots are exchanged between Republicans and Free State troops at the cemetery in Dundalk at the interment of the bodies of six Anti-Treaty fighters executed in January 1923. Several people are hit and one man dies of his wounds.
- 8 November – A general amnesty is declared for acts committed during the civil war.
Appendix
Statistics are incomplete, Free State government sources stated that between 540 and 800 National Army soldiers were killed in the war. Historian Michael Hopkinson, in Green against Green, p272-3, states "There are no means by which to arrive at even approximate figures for the dead and wounded. Mulcahy stated that around 540 pro-Treaty troops were killed between the Treaty's signing and the war's end; the government referred to 800 army deaths between January 1922 and April 1924. There was no record of overall Republican deaths, which appear to have been very much higher. No figure exists for total civilian deaths."Deaths by date
| Year | No. |
|---|---|
| June/July 1922 | 188-218 |
| August 1922 | 93-123 |
| September 1922 | 80–123 |
| October 1922 | 23-25 |
| November 1922 | 60 |
| December 1922 | 31 |
| 1922 | 475-561 |
| January 1923 | 49-59 |
| February 1923 | 47 |
| March 1923 | 60-63 |
| April 1923 | 35-51 |
| May 1923 | 5 |
| June–December | 9 |
| 1923 | 164-234 |
Total for 1922 and 1923: 639-795.
With additional statistics – fatalities by county available for: Cork 180, Kerry 185, Sligo 54, Offaly 21.
Anti Treaty combatants killed in Clare: 28 (no reliable statistics for pro Treaty/Civilians).
Pro/Anti Treaty combatants killed between January–June 1922, 9, - 2 in Clare. Casualties in County Kildare, 45 killed. (17 National Army)
Additions,: Kerry + 78, Cork + 120, Sligo + 39, Offaly + 19, Clare + 27, January–June clashes + 7 = 290
Revised total: 929-1085*
A range is given where casualties are reported but not confirmed.
Status of those killed
| Deaths by status of victim | |
|---|---|
| Status | No. |
| Civilian* | 86 |
| Pro-Treaty | 346 |
| Anti-Treaty | 596 |
| unknown status | 30 |
| Total | 1,058 |
See also
- Timeline of the Irish War of Independence
- Irish Free State offensiveIrish Free State offensiveThe Irish Free State offensive of July–September 1922 was the decisive military stroke of the Irish Civil War. It was carried out by the National Army of the newly created Irish Free State against anti-treaty strongholds in the south and southwest of Ireland....
- Executions during the Irish Civil WarExecutions during the Irish Civil WarThe executions during the Irish Civil War took place during the guerrilla phase of the Irish Civil War . This phase of the war was bitter, and both sides, the government forces of the Irish Free State and the anti-Treaty Irish Republican Army insurgents, used executions and terror in what...
Sources
- M.E. Collins, Ireland 1868-1966, Educational Company, Dublin 1993.
- Tim Pat Coogan, De Valera, Long Fellow, Long Shadow, Random House, London 1993.
- Michael Hopkinson, Green against Green, The Irish Civil War, Gill & MacMillan, Dublin 2004.
- Toby Harnden, Bandit Country, the IRA and South Armagh
- Niall C Hartigan, Kerry Landing, August 1922
- Willie Salmon. The War of Independence and Civil War in Newport http://www.webcitation.org/query?url=http://www.geocities.com/heartland/park/7461/war.html&date=2009-10-25+23:48:18
- Paul V Walsh, The Irish Civil War 1922-23 -A Study of the Conventional Phase http://libraryautomation.com/nymas/irishcivilwar.html
- Chonology of Irish History 1919-1923 http://webpages.dcu.ie/~foxs/irhist/index.htm
- The State and Civil War, 1921-23 http://www.oup.co.uk/pdf/0-19-820426-4.pdf#search=%22Irish%20Civil%20War%20Oriel%20House%22
- Irish War memorials War
- New York Times Archive, http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive-free/pdf?res=9F05EEDD153AEE32A25750C0A96F9C946395D6CF