Sean Robbins.

Clara event to explore life and legacy of Sean Robbins

An event in Clara today (Friday, January 27) will explore the life and legacy of Sean Robbins and the Volunteers of Clara, Ballycumber and Rahan.

As part of the Decade of Centenaries (2012-2023) Mel Doyle, Ivan Bracken and Pat McLoughlin, relatives of local Volunteers, teamed up with local historian Aidan Doyle, along with Clara GAA, Offaly GAA, Clara Heritage and Offaly History to remember the contribution of local Volunteers to the War of Independence (1919-1921).

On Friday, January 27 at 8pm in Clara GAA Social Centre, a presentation will be given recounting the life and legacy of the great Gael Sean Robbins, followed by a presentation about the Volunteers in Clara, Ballycumber and Rahan.

Sean Robbins, who was born in Clara in 1892 took an active role in the fight for independence and was eventually O/C No. 2 Offaly Brigade of the IRA until the end of the Civil War, participating in many activities and engagements both in Offaly and elsewhere.

Later settling in Birr, he made a name for himself as a hurler and footballer at both club and county level. While still an active player he was elected Chairman of the Offaly County Board, and in 1935 became the first Offaly man to be elected as Chairman of the Leinster Council. He was also an All Ireland referee, taking charge of several high profile games in Croke Park.

Sean Robbins passed away on the 11 August 1960 and in his memory, a new Offaly Senior Hurling trophy was awarded in his honour, with Drumcullen becoming the first Senior Hurling team to have their name inscribed on it in October 1960.

An informative evening waits those with an interest in the local input into the War of Independence and the history of Offaly GAA.

Admission to the event is free, and all are welcome to attend, light refreshments will be served. afterwards.