Cumann na mBan, Aghada’s Unsung Heroine

In a comprehensive document detailing the successful pension application of Ellen Walsh, who sought recognition for her service with Cumann na mBan during various intervals between April 1, 1920, and March 31, 1923, we delve into the intricate facets of her remarkable journey. Ellen Walsh's remarkable contribution to the cause earned her 1 and 29/36 years of active service, officially acknowledged in November 1941. Despite her undeniable qualifications for the pension, logistical challenges, compounded by her age and declining health, prevented her from appearing in person for the referee hearing, as she corresponded with the Pensions Board. Ellen Walsh's involvement in the struggle for Irish independence is notable for her unwavering commitment and selfless dedication. Her residence, which doubled as a shop, played a pivotal role in supporting the activities of the IRA, and it frequently fell prey to raids orchestrated by the notorious Black and Tans. Throughout her service, she held the rank of Quartermaster for the Aghada Branch from 1919 to 1923. Her dual role encompassed routine responsibilities with Cumann na mBan and providing invaluable assistance to the IRA, offering her house and shop for the Brigade's use.

Cumann na mBan, which translates to "The Women's Council" in Irish, was an Irish republican women's organization founded in 1914. It played a significant role in the struggle for Irish independence during the early 20th century. Here's a brief history of Cumann na mBan:

Formation: Cumann na mBan was founded on April 2, 1914, as a response to the growing nationalist and republican movements in Ireland. Its primary goal was to support the Irish Volunteers, a paramilitary organization dedicated to achieving Irish independence from British rule. Agnes O'Farrelly served as its inaugural president, and Mary Colum played a crucial role as one of its earliest organizers. The initial provisional committee was composed of O'Farrelly, Agnes MacNeill, Nancy O'Rahilly, Mary Colum, Jennie Wyse-Power, Louise Gavan-Duffy, Maire Tuohy, and Maureen MacDonagh O'Mahoney. Its primary target audience initially aimed at women who could dedicate their time to support the organization without employment commitments. However, it soon saw an influx of working women who were influenced by suffrage and labour-related concerns.

Early Activities: Cumann na mBan's early activities included fundraising, training in first aid, and providing support to the Irish Volunteers. They also played a crucial role in distributing propaganda and mobilizing public opinion in favour of Irish independence.

Easter Rising: The most significant event in Cumann na mBan's history was their involvement in the Easter Rising of 1916. Many of its members participated in the uprising alongside the Irish Volunteers. Women played key roles as couriers, nurses, and combatants during the rebellion, and some were arrested and imprisoned by British forces following the uprising's suppression.

Post-Rising Activities: After the Easter Rising, Cumann na mBan continued to be active in various forms of resistance against British rule. They provided support for political prisoners, engaged in protests, and continued to be a vital part of the republican movement.

Civil War: Cumann na mBan was divided during the Irish Civil War (1922-1923). Some members supported the anti-Treaty side, which opposed the Anglo-Irish Treaty that led to the establishment of the Irish Free State, while others aligned with the pro-Treaty side. This division created tension within the organization.

Later Years: In the years following the Irish Civil War, Cumann na mBan's role evolved. It became less focused on armed struggle and more involved in political activism and social issues. Over time, the organization's influence waned, and it became less prominent in Irish political life.

Cumann na mBan played a vital role in the early stages of Ireland's struggle for independence, and many of its members made significant sacrifices in the pursuit of that goal. While the organization eventually faded away, its legacy as an important part of Irish history remains. The Aghada Branch of Cumann na mBan fell under the authority of the Midleton District Council, part of the 4th battalion in the Cork No. 1 Brigade Area. Alongside Aghada, there were affiliated branches in Midleton, Cobh, Carrigtwohill, Churchtown, and Cloyne operating within this framework. Anna O'Keeffe from Ardra held the position of President for the Midleton District Council in both 1921 and 1922 but had passed away before the pension period in the 1930s. Serving as the Adjutant/Secretary for the District Council during the same years was Peg Harty from Churchtown, who later emigrated to the United States.

During the tumultuous period of the War of Independence, Ellen's responsibilities included procuring and distributing supplies to the local ASU (Active Service Unit) and the Battalion Flying Column. Her duties extended to carrying and receiving dispatches, safeguarding arms and ammunition, and managing financial resources for the IRA. Her shop functioned as a critical storage facility for equipment confiscated by the IRA, emphasizing the pivotal role she played in the cause. Even during the Truce, Ellen's dedication did not waver. She supplied food to training camps at Maryland, catering to around 80 men who were diligently preparing for the challenges ahead. Her commitment extended into the Civil War, where she continued to handle dispatches, store arms, and contribute to the collection of funds vital for the cause. Her unwavering dedication and service were evident in her actions.

However, Ellen's path was not without peril. On October 1, 1922, while in her own house, she fell victim to an attack when Free State troops opened fire on IRA members. This incident left her wounded and underscored the dangers she faced in her unwavering support for the independence movement. Subsequently, her house became the target of constant raids, forcing her sister's residence to be transformed into a makeshift headquarters. During the period from June 1922 to August 1922, Ellen was responsible for the welfare of 25 men stationed at Aghada Hall, further exemplifying her dedication and the extent of her involvement in the cause. Her service record speaks volumes about her commitment to the struggle for Irish independence.

AGHADA AMBUSH

COMMANDANT SERIOUSLY WOUNDED

A party of National troops from Midleton under Commandant P Whelan and Captain T. Riordan, operating in Upper Aghada about 11 o'clock last night, were ambushed in the village, Comdt. Whelan sustaining serious injuries, a bullet entering through his right side, and passing through to the left side, where it remained under the region of the heart. Driver Maurice Heaphy was also wounded in the fingers.

The following facts were forthcoming on inquiry at the military headquarters this morning.

When the troops had reached the outskirts of the village, Comdt. Whelan, Capt. Riordan and Driver Heaphy, proceeding towards the Parochial Hall, which is situated near the parish priest's house, a man was observed standing near a shop occupied by a Miss Walsh on the corner of the road opposite. Captain Riordan having approached him shots immediately rang out, the civilian escaping over the wall nearby. Immediately several volleys were discharged, one bullet entering Comdt. Whelan's right side and a second grazing the fingers of Driver Heaphy. The latter noticing the flash from the assailants' revolvers, who were apparently under cover of a wall in the garden in front of Miss Walsh's shop opened fire with his revolver with what effect is not known, but fire from the attackers ceased immediately.

The party then entered Miss Walsh's establishment and a thorough search of the house gone through. Commandant Whelan, although badly wounded, did not complain of having been hit until a complete search of the locality had taken place, but the irregulars had by this time apparently escaped in a pony trap through the Churchyard. Commandant Whelan was conveyed to Midleton where he was medically attended to by Dr JF Walsh and removed to the Cork Mercy Hospital this morning where it is to be sincerely hoped a successful operation for extraction of the bullet will take place. Commandant "Paddy" Whelan, as he is locally known, has had a brilliant record of service with the army of the country, which dates years, and although not a native of Midleton, his popularity in the town has been well established prior to the coming of the National troops.

The news of the night's affair is being eagerly discussed locally, and the universal hope expressed that that Comdt. Whelan will successfully undergo any medical ordeal which will bring him back to health and vigour. Later - The public will be glad to learn that, although in a rather serious condition, the Commandant is making very satisfactory progress.

Irish Examiner, 3 October, 1922.

Within the file documenting Ellen Walsh's pension application and subsequent award, a wealth of information is encapsulated. This trove of historical records includes a plethora of correspondence, meticulously filled application forms, the official award certificate, and a life certificate. Moreover, it is enriched by references provided by key figures such as T. O'Higgins, E.P. McCarthy, and Patrick V. O'Keeffe. It also comprises comprehensive details of Ellen Walsh's service, duly authenticated by Madge Lucey (Maighread Bean Uí Luasa), Nita Murphy, M. Leahy, and Michael Burke.

Above and below documents from militaryarchives.ie, MSP34REF19410

In essence, Ellen Walsh's remarkable journey, as illustrated through her pension file, paints a vivid portrait of her unwavering dedication to the Irish independence movement. Her sacrifices, resilience, and vital contributions serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who played an instrumental role in shaping Ireland's history during a pivotal period.

Ellen Walsh passed away at the age of seventy-two in the Midleton district home on November 6, 1952, and she was laid to rest in the Aghada old cemetery.

“WALSH (Aghada)-On November 6.1952 at the Cottage Hospital. Midleton. Ellen (Ellie) Walsh. Very deeply regretted. R.I.P. Removal from Midleton Cottage Hospital to Aghada Catholic Church on this (Friday) evening at 4 o'clock. Funeral on Sunday at 3 o'clock to local cemetery”.

 Irish Examiner, 7 November, 1952.

They stand for the honour of Ireland,
As their sisters in days that are gone,
And they'll march with their brothers to freedom —
The soldiers of Cumann na mBan! 

Brian O'Higgins