This letter was written by my mother Eileen McCarthy (née Scott) to her own mother Rose Scott in Putney, London. She was born in London in 1900 to Irish parents (Angelo Scott and Rose O’Neill), but had a passionate interest in Ireland. I don’t know if this was her first visit to Dublin, but she apparently stayed for some time, as she refers to going to work, and being stopped by soldiers who told her to go back. She was staying at No. 6 Weaver Sq. (still standing), the house of her grandfather O’Neill. I note that she knew the Irish form of the square!
It is a fascinating letter, describing tumultuous times, and encountering both Free State and Republican forces.
She returned to London at some stage, where she worked as a milliner, and later met her future husband Daniel McCarthy, who came to live in Putney, and they may have met through the church. After they were married, they returned to Dublin, where they set up home in Cremore, Glasnevin.
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It is absolutely fantastic to have this eyewitness account of the Battle for Dublin in the Civil War. Amazing also to read how people went on with their everyday affairs as best they could, and where possible.
Hi Donal,
I was wondering if you are a relative of Dan Mc Carthy TD, who attended the Treaty negotiations, was chief whip for in Cosgrave government & later GAA president?
Can you please email me- I am researching Dan in relation to an important artefact from 1922.
Thank you so much!
Donal this is excellent history you have…thanks for sharing.
What a wonderful legacy to have in family archives.
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