1798 monument refurbished

The Old Kilcullen Area Community Association recently organised the cleaning of the local 1798 Rebellion commemorative cross, and added English and French translations of the original Irish language inscription.

The cross was originally erected by the Kildare Branch of the National Graves Association (NGA) in 1948, which was the 150th anniversary of the rebellion. The cross commemorates the Kildare United Irishmen who died in the battle of Old Kilcullen in May 1798

In 1998, the bicentenary of the 1798 rebellion, the cross was restored and a wreath laying ceremony took place. A large crowd then followed the Ballymore Brass and Reed Band to the cemetery at Old Kilcullen where a monument was unveiled. A moving ecumenical service was then held to commemorate all those who were killed or injured in the fighting.

During road widening and re-alignment work by Kildare County Council vigilant locals ensured the area around the cross was landscaped and steps were constructed to provide access from the roadside.

All work on the monument and associated costs were undertaken and borne by the NGA itself.

In particular the provision of the adjacent memorial, with inscription in Irish, English and French, is acknowledged and appreciated.

The input of Maurice O'Mahony with the inscription translations and drafting this memorial note is appreciated.

(Story and photos supplied by OKACA.)

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