Kilbehenny and the adjoining community of Anglesboro are rich in history with both locations featuring prominently during the War of Independence period.
The springboard for this military campaign against British rule in Ireland was the General Election of 1918 which saw Sinn Fein sweep the boards. Instead of travelling to Westminster to take their seats, the 73 Sinn Fein public representatives remained in Dublin and formed Ireland’s first Dáil.
This act of self-determination was rejected by the British Government who set about undermining the fledgling regime by arresting as many of new deputies (TDs) as they could.
This in turn prompted a reaction from the Irish Volunteers, who declared their allegiance to the new Dáil and promptly set about militarily engaging British soldiers whenever an opportunity arose.
Kilbehenny native Tom McGrath, is well versed in these matters and to mark the seismic events of 1918, he organised a concert in The Three Counties Lounge, Kilbehenny last Friday night.
While there wasn’t a huge crowd in attendance, the event did however, help draw attention to the aforementioned events which are among the most important in Irish history.
Those who didn’t attend missed a wonderful performance by the Donal Ring Ceili Band who are sounding as good as ever.
Tom thanked the band for their contribution, the management of The Three Counties for hosting the event and individuals who assisted him with the concert.
