Recalling the War of Independence

PLANS are at an advanced stage to mark the 90th anniversary of the Glenwood ambush, which took place in Belvoir, Kilkishen on January 20, 1921. The site is one of the entrances to the Glenwood estate and work is progressing well on restoring the stone walls and piers at this entrance.

A sandstone plaque, designed by sculptor Michael McTigue and mounted on one of the wing walls, will be unveiled following mass at the site on Sunday, January 23.
From IRA records of that time, 37 volunteers are named as having participated in the ambush, which was a significant event in the War of Independence in County Clare. It was originally planned to include all names on the plaque but after a lot of debate, it was decided not to include names in the interest of harmony in the community. However, the names will be included in a 16-page programme, which is planned for launch day.
Relatives of the volunteers should contact the committee secretary, Michael McNamara, Jamaica Inn, Sixmilebridge to have some data on them included in the programme. The volunteers were members of the IRA Active Service Unit at that time.
The British Crossley tender, which was the IRA target, was occupied by eight RIC/Black and Tans, six of whom lost their lives while two escaped. There were no injuries on the IRA side.
To finance the project, the Glenwood Ambush Fund has been set up at Bank of Ireland Tulla where supporters of the project can make donations. Donations can also me made by ringing 087 9691415.
A part of the fundraising, a traditional music session will be held at Donnellan’s Bar on Saturday, December 18 and tickets are now on sale. On the night evening, between 9pm and 10pm, details of the project will be outlined and a replica of the proposed plaque will be on display. Those who may have any war replicas of the War of Independence era are invited to bring them along. There will also be a 45 drive in the Pumphouse, Kilmurry on this Sunday evening beginning at 6pm.