Shannonbridge remembers: Local history board goes on display

Shannonbridge’s important role in 19th century land agitation was the subject of a commemorative event held in the village hall on Saturday, August 29.

The event was organised to mark the 150th anniversary of a monster meeting organised by the Ballinasloe Tenants Defence Association (BTDA) in 1876.

Declan Ryan chaired the occasion and opened proceedings by explaining that the BTDA was established to represent small tenant farmers and campaign for the 3 Fs; Fair Rent Fixity of Tenure and Free Sale.

He also recounted the roles of Matt Harris, a Ballinasloe Fenian and prominent nationalists like William Kilroe and Michael Reddy of Shannonbridge, Peter Kelly of Blackwater Lodge, John Millar of Ballydangan, James Kilmartin of Shralea and Malachy O’Sullivan of Ballinasloe in getting the organisation off the ground.

In May 1876, local Parish Priest Fr O’Reilly, James Kilmartin and other speakers addressed 2,000 people at the Association'S first large rally at Shannonbridge. In 1879 the Land League was established, and the BTDA was merged into the League.

Local historian Aidan Doyle gave a short speech on the ability of commemorations to allow local communities to raise awareness of lesser-known aspects of their own history and the importance of acknowledging the role of ordinary people in larger historical events.

Jack Darcy recited ‘The Eviction Fight’ about the ‘Battle of Clonfinlough’ when attempts to serve eviction writs were thwarted.

The night concluded with the unveiling of an information board which was produced by Brosna Press.

The board will be on public display until the end of 2026.