New book by Kildare historian explores Na Fianna Éireann
Na Fianna Éireann was established by nationalist activists Bulmer Hobson and Countess Constance Markievicz
The story of Kildare’s young members of Na Fianna Éireann during Ireland’s revolutionary period is explored in a new book by local historian James Durney.
Boyhood’s Fire: Na Fianna Éireann at War 1916-1986, published by Newbridge-based Merrion Press, charts the history of the youth movement from its formation in 1909 through the 1916 Rising, War of Independence and Civil War, and later conflicts in Belfast and Derry.
Na Fianna Éireann was established by nationalist activists Bulmer Hobson and Countess Constance Markievicz as an alternative to the Boy Scout movement. Membership was initially open to boys aged from eight to 18, with members receiving military training alongside outdoor and Irish cultural activities.
A sluagh, or troop, was formed in Athy in August 1914, while Naas and Newbridge soon established their own units.
Among the Kildare figures featured in the book is Alphonsus ‘Alfie’ Sweeney, who lived with his maternal relatives, the O’Kelly family, in Naas.
Although only 16, Sweeney mobilised with Naas Company for the 1916 Rising and delivered despatches around the town before Easter Week. He was arrested with his uncle, Michael O’Kelly, editor of the Leinster Leader, on April 29, 1916, but was released because of his young age.
Another prominent Naas member was Laurence ‘Larry’ McGarr of Craddockstown, who joined the Kildare Brigade of Na Fianna Éireann at the age of 12 in 1918.
McGarr became the troop’s bugler and played at Fianna parades and functions throughout Kildare. He sounded the ‘General Salute’ when Kildare Barracks was taken over by the National Army in 1922.
He also sounded the ‘Last Post’ at the funeral of his Fianna comrade James Whelan, who died aged 18 from tuberculosis in June 1922.
The book recounts how McGarr later sounded the ‘General Salute’ during Michael Collins’ visit to Naas in August 1922, shortly before Collins was killed.
Durney’s book draws on first-hand testimony and original research to examine the experiences of the young scouts, couriers and fighters who became involved in Ireland’s struggle for independence.
Boyhood’s Fire will be launched by former national organiser of Na Fianna Éireann, Des Dalton of Athy, at 7pm on September 10 at Barker & Jones, Naas.
All are welcome.