From the collections of Cork City and County Archives Service.
Cork City and County Archives Descriptive List
Identity Statement Reference Code: Title: Dates:
IE 627 /PR4 Lord Mayor Terence MacSwiney 1920 Files (1919) March – July 1920
Level of description: Series / Item Extent: 362 items
Context Creator(s):
MacSwiney, Terence (b1879-d1920), Lord Mayor of Cork. Archival History
The papers were donated to the Archives by Father Nessan Shaw, Gurranabraher, for Sister Rossario Hall, North Presentation Convent, and Mrs. Marie Collins, nieces of Father Dominic, Chaplain to MacSwiney.
Administrative & Biographical History Terence MacSwiney, republican politician and Lord Mayor of Cork, also Commanding Officer of Cork No.1 Brigade, Irish Volunteers / Irish Republican Army. Elected Lord Mayor of Cork following the murder of Lord Mayor Tomás MacCurtain in March 1920. Died on hunger strike at Brixton Prison, London in Oct. 1920. Elected to the First Dáil as TD for the Mid-Cork area. Content & Structure
Scope & Content The collection itself is relatively small yet surprisingly wealthy in information. It consists of 362 documents separated into six individual correspondence files containing incoming
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and copy outgoing letters in English, Irish and French. Although the collection covers the period from 1919 to 1920 most of the documents concentrate on the period of March to July 1920 and are primarily administrative. There are however two distinct themes, MacSwiney as Lord Mayor of Cork, and as the Commanding Officer of Cork No.1 Brigade, Irish Volunteers. The original order has been maintained and the collection divided into six sections each representing an individual file. Within each file the documents have been rearranged to reflect chronological order as this had become disordered. The only file originally named was File 2 labelled 'Finance' which includes correspondence concerning the establishment of an Irish taxation department, the accumulation of revenue from the renewal of licences and the collection of money for the Dáil Éireann Loan in Cork. However these themes are not exclusive to this particular file and neither do they dominate it. This is a common trait in all six files for although they appear to have been kept as separate administrative files by MacSwiney the subject matter throughout the collection continuously overlaps. The principle correspondents are Diarmuid O'Hegarty, Secretary Dáil Éireann, Austin Stack, Substitute Minister for Home Affairs, Michael Collins, Minister for Finance and Kevin O'Higgins, Substitute Minister for Local Government. To a lesser extent there are also letters from Liam de Róiste, T.D., Desmond Fitzgerald, Director of Propaganda, Arthur Griffith, Acting President Dáil Éireann and Daniel Corkery. In terms of the Irish Volunteer movement Gearóid O'Sullivan, Adjutant General and Richard Mulcahy, Chief of Staff are the main correspondents. Letters are also exchanged with the Commanding Officers of Cork No.3 Brigade, Tom Hales and the 6th Battalion Commandant, T.S. O'Gorbidhe. The main themes overlapping in the files are the establishment and early workings of the National Arbitration Courts, the separation from English Local Government to Irish Local Government, the foundation of an Irish taxation system and the collection of funds in Mid Cork and Cork City for the Dáil Éireann Loan Fund. The foundation of a nation-wide regional judicial system is particularly emphasised in MacSwiney's correspondence with Austin Stack, Substitute Minister for Home Affairs. There are a number of requests and reports commenting on the progress of MacSwiney's constituency in setting up Republican Courts (PR4/2/1) and a continuous eagerness to show these courts to American journalists (PR4/4/63). One of the earliest working tests and frequent subject in the papers is the case of R. Power, Tramore, County Waterford whose action highlights the starting difficulties and resolutions of this new system. (PR4/2/3, PR4/6/15). This eagerness on the part of MacSwiney and his contemporaries is equally apparent in the weight of correspondence regarding the establishment of a financially independent country. MacSwiney, Michael Collins, Minister for Finance and to a lesser extent Liam de Róiste, T.D., converse over the amount of money or gold collected for the Dáil
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Éireann Loan Fund (PR4/2/2, PR4/5/34). There are also numerous letters between MacSwiney and Collins concerning proposed new methods of taxation, the possibilities of collecting revenue directly from the Irish people and the problems of indemnifying Ireland against liability to the British Government. Another dominant theme explored in the files are the many difficulties arising out of the break with English Local Authorities. There are a number of reports concerning inquiries into the state of Local Government in Ireland and the financial and legal problems that separation from England would entail (PR4/4/16). To protect the continued existence of County Councils, Sinn Féin members were asked to sign resignation forms in advance and much of MacSwiney's correspondence with Kevin O'Higgins, Substitute Minister for Local Government, is concerned with this procedure and MacSwiney's own efforts to have the Government appoint a 'locum tenens' to take the place of the "resigned" councillor. (PR4/3/14, PR4/6/76). The final principle correspondent is Diarmuid O'Hegarty, who in his capacity as Dáil Éireann Secretary, frequently wrote to MacSwiney regarding arrangements for meetings, safe addresses for correspondence and MacSwiney's inspection of Limerick Technical School. Other general correspondence with MacSwiney concerns letters of sympathy with Volunteers who had been imprisoned (PR4/6/82), requests for employment (PR4/6/45) and sponsorship (PR4/6/70) and Cork Corporation's support for both the Resolution of Allegiance to Dáil Éireann (PR4/5/1)and the resolution supporting the beatification of Oliver Plunkett (PR4/6/12). Another matter which generates a significant amount of material is the death and murder of Tomás MacCurtain, Lord Mayor of Cork. This includes MacSwiney's own acceptance speech as Lord Mayor of Cork (PR4/1/1), Cork Corporation's resolution condemning the murder of MacCurtain (PR4/5/18) and the very many letters from MacSwiney regarding subscriptions to the MacCurtain Memorial Fund (PR4/5/95, PR4/6/89). Material on the Irish Volunteers centres on General Orders, reports of raids, Royal Irish Constabulary membership, and inquiries into breaches of discipline. The General Orders concern Volunteer conduct, seizure of arms, rules of correspondence and the establishment of a voluntary police force. There are several reports of successful attacks to Richard Mulcahy, Chief of Staff (PR4/4/50) and a number of letters from MacSwiney dealing with complaints of ill-treatment and unauthorised action particularly the looting of Ballyvourney Woods (PR4/2/18, PR4/4/48). Another strong theme is the enforcement of the R.I.C. boycott and the problems associated with the precise nature of this boycott and its effects on trade (PR4/4/92, PR4/5/43). There are also a limited number of editions of An Toglach, An Saorstat and Misneach. The file contents are in a good state of preservation and very legible. The size of the collection allows for an individual description of each item and those written in Irish or French have been translated.
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Arrangement The original order has been maintained. The collection is divided into six sections each representing an individual file. Within each file the documents have been rearranged to reflect chronological order as this had become disordered.
PR4/1/ PR4/2/ PR4/3/ PR4/4/ PR4/5/ PR4/6/
Note: Mr.Diarmuid O'Murchadha assisted with the translation of the Irish language documents. Conditions of Access & Use
Access: Open by appointment to those holding a current readers ticket. Language: English, Irish, French Finding Aids: Descriptive List
Allied Materials:
Related Material CCCA: SM645 Funeral poster / handbill for funeral of Lord Mayor Terence McSwiney U207 Copy of correspondence between Terence McSwiney and Pauline Henley, 1916-22 U71 Terence MacSwiney (Diary and Memorial Card) Elsewhere: 2 boxes dating from 1916 to 1921, Cork Public Museum (L 1945; 342 - 450, L 1955; 3 - 253); 11 boxes dating from 1872-1942 (P48b and P48c) plus 13 boxes dating from 1895-1962 (P48a) of Mary MacSwiney, UCD Archives.
Archivists Note: Deirdre Heaphy, Contract Archivist,
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1995 Revised Sept. 2010 Brian McGee, Archivist, CCCA
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Contents
LIST OF ITEMS .......................................................................................................................................... 7 PR4/1/ (FILE 1) ............................................................................................................................................ 7 PR4/2/ (FILE 2) .......................................................................................................................................... 11 PR4/3/ (FILE 3) .......................................................................................................................................... 17 PR4/4/ (FILE 4) .......................................................................................................................................... 22 PR4/5/ (FILE 5) .......................................................................................................................................... 37 PR4/6/ (FILE 6) .......................................................................................................................................... 51
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PR4/1/ (FILE 1 )
List of Items PR4/1/ (FILE 1)
1 Draft acceptance speech of Terence MacSwiney on his appointment as Lord Mayor of Cork. Details his great admiration and respect for his predecessor the late Tomás MacCurtain and strongly emphasises the need for a continued effort on behalf of the Irish people to press for independence and a strong and efficient republic. [20-30 March 1920] 5pp 2 Anonymous MS letter to MacSwiney urging him to put a stop to any plot to assassinate District Inspector Swansea (Oswald R. Swanzy) or injure any other member of the police force. Warns that otherwise MacSwiney and then three others will be murdered in retaliation. [March 1920] 2pp 3 Annotated copy letter from MacSwiney to Art Ó’Gríobhtha (Arthur Griffith), Acting President Dáil Éireann, regarding MacSwiney's possible absence from the forthcoming Conference on Local Administration due to an outstanding warrant for his arrest and the difficulty this creates when travelling. Notes that he will forward a statement about the effects of the British Local Government Boards on Irish civic administration and acknowledges Griffith's agreement with Cork Corporation's resolution relating to the inquest of the late Lord Mayor (Tomás
MacCurtain). 30 April 1920
2pp
4 Circular General Order number 3 1920 (New series) issued by the Adjutant General (Gearóid O'Sullivan) of the Irish Volunteers commanding Volunteers not to make any statements regarding their whereabouts or actions to the police or other English officials unless held at a routine checkpoint and then only in the simplest possible manner. Notes that the alert Volunteer will cleverly avoid even this action. 21 May 1920 1p 5 Circular General Order number 4 1920 (New series) issued by the Adjutant General (Gearóid O'Sullivan) of the Irish Volunteers regarding the conduct of Volunteers in military and civil matters. Notes that the Volunteer movement is essentially a military force with the right to intervene in civil matters but that in both cases Volunteers should act only under official direction and that all such action should be fully supported by an officer in command.
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PR4/1/ (FILE 1 )
26 May 1920
2pp
6 Circular General Order number 5 1920 (New series) issued by the Adjutant General (Gearóid O'Sullivan) of the Irish Volunteers regarding correspondence with Headquarters and the exact specifications to be used when communicating by letter. 29 May 1920 1p 7 Circular General Order number 6 1920 (New series) issued by the Adjutant General Irish Volunteers (Gearóid O'Sullivan) regarding the boycott of the Royal Irish Constabulary. Notes that all Volunteers will comply with the Dail decision to boycott the constabulary under threat of being subjected to the same treatment themselves in a very obvious and public manner. 4 June 1920 1p 8 Circular General Order number 7 1920 (New series) issued by the Adjutant General (Gearóid O'Sullivan) of the Irish Volunteers regarding the treatment of wounded men. Details that all Volunteers should be treated by a discreet and nationally minded doctor so that they are not put in unnecessary danger, that if hospitalised in Dublin the patient should enter under an assumed name and that full details be sent to Headquarters. 8 June 1920 1p 9 Circular General Order number 9 1920 (New series) issued by the Adjutant General (Gearóid O’Sullivan) of the Irish Volunteers regardibg the establishment of a voluntary police force. Details the proposed appointment within each company of a brigade, battalion and company police officer plus three or four ordinary ploicemen with individual powers to arrest, try and publicly humiliate but not punish guilty offenders. Also notes that each new appointment and each trial must be fully reported to the Adjutant General. 10 June 1920 3pp 10 Copy scheme for the administration of National Arbitration Courts in parishes and districts. Details the number of arbitrators to be appointed, the jurisdiction of each court, the daily fees, the terms of appeal and the necessity of all parties signing an undertaking to comply to the orders and decisions of the court. Also includes an amendment allowing for the appointment of temporary arbitrators and the instigation of an oath of allegiance to be taken by all arbitrators. [June 1920] 2pp See also PR4/5/42
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PR4/1/ (FILE 1 )
11 Copy of previous scheme for the administration of National Arbitration Courts without amendments. [June 1920] 2pp 12 Circular to MacSwiney from Diarmuid Ó’hEigceartuigh (Diarmuid O'Hegarty), Secretary Dáil Éireann, enclosing a report on milk production which was presented to the Acting President Dáil Éireann (Arthur Griffith) by the Commission of Inquiry into the Resources and Industries of Ireland. (No enclosure) 13 July 1920 1p 13 Circular from MacSwiney to the Registrars of all Parish Courts Mid Cork, requesting details about the workings of the courts for the benefit of the Department of Home Affairs. Requests a list of Justices in each ParishCourt, the name and address of each Registrar, whether the press attends and whether lists of cases and penalties are published in individual parishes. 13 July 1920 1p 14 Copy letter from MacSwiney to John Torpey, Cloughjourdan, County Tipperary, in reply to his letter forwarded by Alderman (Joseph) MacDonagh concerning the correct procedures for making a claim against a Cork firm in the Dail Courts. MacSwiney promises to deliver the particulars of Torpy's claim to the Registrar of the Cork City District Court (Seán O'Leary). 23 July 1920 1p 15 Copy letter from MacSwiney to O/C 6th Battalion Cork No.1 Brigade, Irish Volunteers, requesting a report on raids carried out on Messrs Buckworth, Hennessy (John Hennessy, Saint Anne's Hill) and Kelleher (William L. Kelleher, Inniscarra), on the outcome of a charge against Buckworth for lending assistance to the enemy and an immediate answer on whether guns were returned to Messrs. Hennessy and Kelleher. 24 July 1920 1p 16 Circular to MacSwiney from Pádraig O'Caoimh, Secretary, Sinn Féin, regarding the employment policies to be adopted towards resigning members of the Royal Irish Constabulary. Details that 'every effort should be made' to find employment for these men by directing that a supportive letter be read out to all relatives, by citing the good example of Irish organisations in the United States of America and by stressing that Sinn Féin are in favour of the government commending the actions of these men. Also includes a similar letter to be read to the Sinn Féin
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PR4/1/ (FILE 1 )
clubs acknowledging the 'honest intentions' of the men and recommending that a central fund be set up for hardship cases. uly 1920 2pp 17 List of District Court officials naming Seán Mac Eoinin, Domhnall Óg Ua Ceallacháin, Terence MacSwiney, Liam de Róiste, J.J Walsh, Pat Harrington, Seán O'Sullivan, Tomás O'Donovan, Reverend Father O'Brien, Father Breen, Father Cahalane, Father O'Leary, Father Peter and Father Dominic as Justices and both Seán Ó Laoghaoire and Michael O'Cuill as Registrars of the Court. [July 1920] 1p
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PR4/2/ (FILE 2 )
PR4/2/ (FILE 2)
1 Letter to MacSwiney from A. de Staic (Austin Stack Substitute Minister for Home Affairs), concerning the speedy establishment of National Arbitration Courts throughout the country following the Dáil Éireann decree. Asks that each constituency follow the successful example of County Clare and County Galway and fix dates for the election of Parish and District arbitrators and notes that in his opinion it would be desirable but not necessary to appoint a clergyman to each court. 15 May 1920 1p 2 MS letter to MacSwiney from Liam de Róiste, T.D., concerning the outstanding sums of money to be collected for the Dáil Éireann Loan in Cork. Notes that he is awaiting accounts from Mr. Moynihan and Liam Mac Iomhair and that when all the receipts and forms are to hand he will ensure that nothing is amiss and will forward the money to Dublin if necessary. Written in Irish. 20 May 1920 1p 3 Letter to MacSwiney from A. de Staic (Austin Stack Substitute Minister for Home Affairs), regarding the proposal to use Cork City Arbitration Court as a venue for the case of R. Power (Tramore County Waterford). Details that the form 'Submission to Arbitration' must firstly be submitted to confirm a venue and suggests that in this case the arbitrators should be qualified accountants. Also recommends that the new register of Cork court officials be limited in its circulation and asks if Seán O'Leary is currently a Registrar of the courts. 27 May 1920 1p 4 Letter to MacSwiney from Michael Collins, Minister for Finance, acknowledging receipt of money and gold for the Mid Cork Dáil Éireann Loan collection and quoting the current totals for Mid Cork, Cork City and for West Limerick as the best constituency. Also notes that there should be no argument between MacSwiney and Liam de Róiste, but that de Róiste had received a copy of MacSwiney's letter and therefore he (Collins) is now much happier with affairs in Cork City. Written in Irish. 29 May 1920 2pp 5 Letter to MacSwiney from Aibirein de Staic (Austin Stack, Substitute Minister for Home Affairs) advising him to contact Kenny (James D. Kenny, Barrister) and arrange a date for the proposed Conference of City and County members, acknowledging his remarks about the Power case (R. Power, Tramore, County Waterford) and noting that O'Leary (Seán O'Leary) is a Registrar of the Cork City
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PR4/2/ (FILE 2 )
Courts. 4 June 1920
1p
6 Letter to MacSwiney from Aibirein de Staic (Austin Stack, Substitute Minister for Home Affairs), noting that he may communicate with Kenny (James. D. Kenny, Barrister) under cover of Rev. Father J. Breen, President, St. Brendan's Seminary, Killarney, County Kerry. 7 June 1920 1p 7 Letter to MacSwiney from Aibirein de Staic (Austin Stack, Substitute Minister for Home Affairs), noting that a special Court of Appeal will soon be established but that the punishment of guilty criminals is more difficult and will be discussed before the Dail at its next meeting. Recommends that Kenny (James D. Kenny, Barrister) be present at the preliminary discussions on this Appeals Court. 8 June 1920 1p 8 Memorandum to MacSwiney from M.C. (Michael Collins, Minister for Finance), regarding the proposed new methods of computing and collecting taxes by the Dail Government. Encloses a copy of the proposal detailing the establishment of a taxation department and advises on the best method to be used by individuals to indemnify them against any liability to the British Exchequer. Also firmly stresses that these taxation plans must remain strictly confidential. 15-17 June 1920 2pp 9 Letter to MacSwiney from Michael Collins, Minister for Finance, clarifying the many questions arising over the price and acceptance of gold for the Dail Eireann Loan. Details his correspondence with Liam de Róiste, concerning the settling of a price for gold, his determination not to pay more than the usual price and the total amount of gold received noting that only sovereigns which cost more than twenty shillings are not wanted. Also notes that the Comhairle Ceanntair should be fully informed of this outcome and again confirms the special receipt for £707- 12-6 issued by him (for the Dáil Éireann Mid Cork Loan collection). Written in Irish. 17 June 1920 2pp 10 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid Ó’hEigceartuigh (Diarmuid O'Hegarty), Secretary Dáil Éireann, detailing his belief that the action of Professor Stockley against the Daily Mail is not simply a matter of claiming damages but highlights English propagandist methods and that withdrawal from action would now be liable to great mis-representation. Also notes that he is still trying to get a copy of the Daily Mail dated March 30th 1920 to help with the case.
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PR4/2/ (FILE 2 )
19 June 1920
1p
11 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid O'Hegarty, Secretary Dáil Éireann, thanking him for his letters and promising to pass them to the relevant people. Written in Irish. 19 June 192 1p 12 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid O'Hegarty, Secretary Dáil Éireann, thanking him for his report on the Limerick Technical Institute and noting that Art O'Brien managed to purchase two copies of the Daily Mail in London that will be helpful to Professor Stockley's work. Written in Irish. 3 July 1920 1p 13 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid Ó’hEigceartuigh (Diarmuid O'Hegarty), Secretary Dáil Éireann, asking him to pass on three copies of the Daily Mail to Professor Stockley purchased at WH Smith's, King's Way Depot, by Art O'Brien and to ask Stockley whether this is sufficient. 5 July 1920 1p 14 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid O'Hegarty, Secretary Dáil Éireann, asking him to delay sending his report to Limerick and promising to forward a letter on the Profiteering Committee". Written in Irish. 5 July 1920 1p 15 Letter to MacSwiney from Aibirein de Staic (Austin Stack, Substitute Minister of Home Affairs), requesting that a report on the establishment of Republican Courts in MacSwiney's constituency be sent to him as quickly as possible 6 July 1920 1p 16 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid O'Hegarty, Secretary Dáil Éireann, acknowledging receipt of the Dáil Éireann Resolution and noting that he sent a letter to Art Ó’Conchubhair (Art O'Connor), Agricultural Department, relating to the cutting down of woods. Written in Irish. 8 July 1920 1p 17 Letter to MacSwiney from Desmond Fitzgerald, Director of Propaganda, asking him to assist Mr. Flurot, representative of The New York World while he is staying in Cork.
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PR4/2/ (FILE 2 )
8 July 1920
1p
18 Letter to MacSwiney from Art Ó’Conchubhair (Art O'Connor), Agricultural Department, regarding the destruction of woods with particular reference to the timber contractors in Ballyvourney woods. Notes that cutting timber in non-tourist areas is commercially viable but cutting wood without re-planting is the main problem. Urges MacSwiney to encourage members of the Cork County Committee of Agriculture to use their full powers to acquire and preserve existing woods. 9 July 1920 1p 19 Letter to MacSwiney from Michael Collins, Minister for Finance, requesting a copy of the order sent by the Comhairle Ceanntair of Sinn Féin in Cork City to all business people to the effect that no information should be given to English tax- collectors and asking whether any further action is to be taken in this matter. Notes that in his opinion it is possible the Irish government may take over the renewal of dog licenses but not pub or drivers' licences and questions MacSwiney's opinion on the feasibility of licensing poteen-making. Also notes £300,000 has been collected to date (for the Dáil Éireann Loan collection). Written in Irish. 12 July 1920 2pp 20 Letter to MacSwiney from Aibirein de Staic (Austin Stack, Substitute Minister for Home Affairs), acknowledging that Parish Courts have been established in Mid Cork and that there are further plans for District Courts but questioning whether anything has yet been done in Cork City. 12 July 1920 1p 21 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid Ó’hEigceartuigh (Diarmuid O'Hegarty), Secretary Dáil Éireann, acknowledging receipt of his letters regarding a proposed meeting with Professor Stockley and his hope of arranging the meeting that evening. 14 July 1920 1p 22 Letter to MacSwiney from Aibirein de Staic (Austin Stack, Substitute Minister for Home Affairs), thanking him for his progress reports on Mid Cork and Cork City and requesting any further information when it becomes available. 15 July 1920 1p 23 Letter to MacSwiney from Michael Collins, Minister for Finance, asking him to come to Dublin to discuss confidential tax plans and noting that it may be possible
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PR4/2/ (FILE 2 )
to start collecting revenue from auctioneers' licences as these come under the Department of Excise. Also encloses a letter from Paris for Professor Stockley and notes that there is now £305,000 in the Dáil Éireann Loan. Written in Irish. (No enclosure) 20 July 1920 2pp 24 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid Ó’hEigceartuigh (Diarmuid O'Hegarty), Secretary Dáil Éireann, enclosing a circular issued by the Secretary of Sinn Féin (P. O'Caoimh) regarding the policies to be adopted towards ex-members of the Royal Irish Constabulary. 20 July 1920 3pp See also PR4/1/16 25 Letter to MacSwiney from Michael Collins, Minister for Finance, acknowledging receipt of money from the Mid Cork constituency for the Dail Eireann Loan Fund, promising to forward receipts for loan subscribers from Ballyvourney and praising Mid Cork and West Limerick for showing the way to promote the loan. Also includes list of subscribers from Ballyvourney and Kilnamartery County Cork. Written in Irish. 21 July 1920 2pp 26 Covering letter to MacSwiney from [R. Ó’Siocháin] on behalf of the Minister for Home Affairs (Austin Stack), enclosing a copy of the official proclamation issued by Dáil Éireann on the 29 June 1920. (No enclosure) 23 July 1920 1p 27 Letter to MacSwiney from Michael Collins, Minister for Finance, acknowledging receipt of payments made to the Dáil Éireann Loan from the Mid Cork constituencies. Written in Irish. 23 July 1920 1p 28 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid Ó’hEigceartuigh (Diarmuid O'Hegarty), Secretary Dáil Éireann, thanking him for copies of his report on the Limerick Technical Institute and assuring him that his letter on the subject of National Health Insurance was passed to the Home Secretary. Comments that the Irish Technical Instruction Association are now working for a return to the British
Department. 23 July 1920
1p
29 Letter to MacSwiney from R.P. Ó’Conchubhair (R.P. O'Connor), Secretary, Local
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PR4/2/ (FILE 2 )
Government Department, requesting that a statement on the financial and administrative workings of Cork be sent to him care of Miss K. Doyle, 12 Grace Park Gardens, Drumcondra, Dublin, for the purpose of the newly established Commission of Inquiry on Local Governing Bodies in Ireland. 29 July 1920 1p 30 Letter to MacSwiney from Michael Collins, Minister for Finance noting that the Dáil Éireann Loan receipts for Ballyvourney and Kilmartery County Cork are being forwarded. Also questions whether Seán Ó'Nunain is familiar with the income tax system or whether MacSwiney can recommend someone else. Written in Irish. 7 August 1920 1p
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PR4/3/ (FILE 3 )
PR4/3/ (FILE 3)
1 Letter to MacSwiney from Micheál Ó’Coileáin (Michael Collins), Minister of Finance confirming and praising MacSwiney and his Mid Cork constituency for raising £4035 for the Dáil Éireann Loan and asking him for the Forms of Application and the official receipts for the sake of recording the amount and creating a good impression. 19 December 1919 1p 2 Printed pamphlet entitled An Introduction to Volunteer Training Handbook No. 1. Details the need and best possible method for a high standard of training in smartness, discipline, drill, field work, bayonet and pike fighting, first aid and engineering. Also stresses the value of good example in order to build up 'the military genius that will save our country, not only militarily but intellectually'. January 1920 23pp 3 Newspaper cuttings detailing the United States Senate's recognition of Ireland's right to self-determination and the ratification of the Peace Treaty. Details results of voting, Eamon de Valera's, President Dáil Éireann, cable to Arthur Griffith, Acting President, praising a successful mission and a report of the first American court case where the Irish Republic was recognised as an official government. 18-19 March 1920 5 items 4 Letter to MacSwiney from [D.Mc] on behalf of the Minister for Local Government (William T. Cosgrave) urging MacSwiney in the light of recent arrests to get signed forms of resignation from all the Sinn Féin members, to be used on the recommendation of the local Sinn Féin Club if and when the republican party is in danger. Advises that all newly elected members be informed of these precautionary steps, that they fully understand their positions are only temporary in the absence of late members and that they themselves fill in forms of resignation. 30 March 1920 1p 5 Cautious letter to MacSwiney from Micheál Ó’Coileáin (Michael Collins), Minister for Finance, thanking him for his notes delivered by 'F', expressing his delight at MacSwiney's intention to carry on and advising him to have the proposed interview with his Lordship (Dr. Cohalan, Bishop of Cork) in order to help reinforce moral values. 30 March 1920 1p
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PR4/3/ (FILE 3 )
6 Letter to MacSwiney from Micheál Ó’Coileáin (Michael Collins), Minister for Finance, congratulating him on his election as Mayor of Cork City and asking him to deliver an unpleasant anonymous letter to Eilís MacCurtain, widow of Tomás MacCurtain, late Lord Mayor of Cork, but hoping that they now have sufficient information to discover who wrote it. 31 March 1920 1p 7 Newspaper cutting from the Daily Mail detailing the murder of the late Tomás MacCurtain, Lord Mayor of Cork, as an act of vengeance on behalf of his own party Sinn Féin. 26 April 1920 2pp 8 Letter to MacSwiney from Micheál Ó’Coileáin (Michael Collins, Minister for Finance) enclosing his contribution to the late Lord Mayor's Memorial Fund (Tomás MacCurtain) and noting the national significance and great importance of the fund. Asks MacSwiney to look into the possibility of Mr. and Mrs. H. Lynch and Joseph Brien, all Macroom County Cork, having gold stored which they might swop for cash as outlined in an enclosed MS letter sent to the Department of Finance by D.[T]. O'D. Also urges him to meet with his Lordship (Dr. Cohalan, Bishop of Cork) as soon as possible as Erskine Childers has already interviewed him in relation to the land bank. 7-9 April 1920 2pp 9 Letter to MacSwiney from Micheál Ó’Coileáin (Michael Collins, Minister of Finance), agreeing with his actions in dealing with the Mid Cork Dáil Éireann Loan, expressing his surprise at not receiving any money and enclosing two addresses which MacSwiney and F.O'D may use to communicate with him. 26 April 1920 2pp 10 Letter to MacSwiney from [Art Ó’Gríobhtha (Arthur Griffith)], Department of Local Government, asking him to join the forthcoming Dublin Conference on Local Government policy exploring in particular the relationship between Local Authorities and the English Local Government Boards. Notes that the time and place of the meeting are to be found by contracting Leo Lawless, Dublin Corporation, and all travel expenses will be paid by the Department. 27 April 1920 1p 11 Letter to MacSwiney from C. Ó’hUigín (Kevin O'Higgins), Substitute Minister for Local Government, questioning whether his council has complied with instructions in passing a resolution of allegiance to Dáil Éireann and obtaining the undated resignations of all republican members. Also recommends that all new
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PR4/3/ (FILE 3 )
council members be discreetly employed for their loyalty to the Irish Republic as well as their merit and asks for a safe covering address for MacSwiney. 28 April 1920 3pp 12 Annotated copy letter from MacSwiney to C. Ó’hUigín (Kevin O'Higgins), Substitute Minister for Local Government assuring him that all his instructions have been carried out and that he is nominating a 'locum tenens' to ensure continuity of the Lord Mayor's office in republican hands. Asks for J.J. Walsh's undated letter of resignation. 30 April 1920 2pp 13 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid Ó’hEigceartuigh (Diarmuid O'Hegarty), Secretary Dáil Éireann, advising MacSwiney to have copies of Cork Corporation's resolution on the result of the late Lord Mayor's (Tomás MacCurtain) inquest authenticated by seal and enclosing a letter from Arthur Griffith, Acting President Dáil Éireann, confirming that he will bring the attention of the 'Governments of the civilised world' to this resolution. 30 April 1920 2pp 14 Letter to MacSwiney from C.Ó’hUigín (Kevin O'Higgins), Substitute Minister for Local Government, noting that his suggestion of appointing a 'locum tenens' has been adopted and that J.J. Walsh has been asked to send in his resignation. Also includes his hope that MacSwiney will attend the forthcoming Local Government
Conference. 5 May 1920
1p
15 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid Ó’hEigceartuigh (Diarmuid O'Hegarty), Secretary Dáil Éireann, refunding expenses of £2 to him in connection with the Local Government Conference. 29 May 1920 1p 16 Circular to MacSwiney from C.Ó’hUigín (Kevin O'Higgins), Substitute Minister for Local Government, requesting that a copy of instructions (not enclosed) be delivered to a leading republican member of each County Council, Rural District Council and Board of Guardians in MacSwiney's constituency, that a meeting be called to discuss these instructions and that a report be sent to the Local Government Department. 1 June 1920 1p 17 Letter to MacSwiney from Michael Collins, Minister for Finance, noting a
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possible increase in the amount collected for the Dáil Éireann Loan. Written in Irish. 4 June 1920 1p 18 Manifesto issued by the Minister of Defence (Cathal Brugha) strongly encouraging young men to remain in Ireland and fight for the Government of the Irish Republic. Condemns those who have emigrated as 'deserters' and 'degenerates' and urges the young Irishman to have patience, think of his country and not to fall for the enemy tactic of encouraging emigration for the sake of
employment. 5 June 1920
1p
19 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid O'Hegarty, Secretary Dáil Éireann, asking him to replace Liam de Róiste, T.D., as inspector for Limerick Technical School. Details that a report on the school's financial and educational aspects has to be presented to the next sitting of the Dail in order to continue the school's funding over the following year. Also notes that de Róiste has copies of the Commissioners' minutes if needed. Written in Irish. 12 June 1920 2pp 20 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid O'Hegarty, Secretary Dáil Éireann, requesting that he act as an inspector to the Limerick Technical School. Written in Irish. 17 June 1920 1p 21 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid Ó’hEigceartuigh (Diarmuid O'Hegarty), Secretary Dáil Éireann acknowledging receipt of his concerning the election of substitute Dail members to replace the absentees and promising to put this important matter before the ministry as promptly as possible. Written in Irish. 17 June 1920 1p 22 Letter to MacSwiney from C. Ó’hUigín (Kevin O'Higgins), Substitute Minister for Local Government, thanking him for his letter and report from Kinsale Council. 18 June 1920 1p 23 Printed proclamation issued by the Department of Home Affairs in connection with property claims being made on dairy, agricultural and residential holdings. Strongly notes that although claimants may register with the relevant District Court, cases will not be heard until international recognition of the Irish Republic
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PR4/3/ (FILE 3 )
is determined and that any claimant persisting in this action will be breaching the law and treated as so. 29 June 1920 1p 24 Letter to MacSwiney from Diarmuid Ó’hEigceartuigh (Diarmuid O'Hegarty), Secretary Dáil Éireann, urgently requesting both a report on the financing of Limerick Technical Institute and the school registers in order that Mr. Delacy (Principal Limerick Technical Institute) be given an opportunity of explaining his position at the next Dail meeting. 14 July 1920 1p
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PR4/4/ (FILE 4 )
PR4/4/ (FILE 4)
1 Envelope containing a typed copy of MacSwiney's inaugural address as Lord Mayor of Cork for the intention of Reverend Father Dominic, O.S.F. Cap. (Chaplain to the Lord Mayor. No enclosure) [March 1920] 1p 2 General letter of resignation from a Member of the Council to F.W. Mc Carthy, Town Clerk, City Hall, Cork. [March 1920] 1p 3 Circular General Order number 1 1920 (new series) issued by the Adjutant General of the Irish Volunteers (Gearóid O'Sullivan) noting that all future orders will be issued numerically and will be the responsibility of Brigade and Battalion Commandants. 19 May 1920 1p 4 19 May 1920 See copy PR4/4/3 5 Circular General Order number 2 1920 (new series) commanding that no Volunteer should issue a proclamation in the name of the Irish Volunteers or the Irish Republic without formal authority of the Headquarters staff. 19 May 1920 1p 6 Initialled copy letter from MacSwiney to C.S. (Chief of Staff, Richard Mulcahy) concerning an inquiry on discipline among the Irish Volunteers. Records that although the great majority of City Volunteers are well disciplined and obedient the true idea of a soldier's discipline is only found in a limited number and that this is particularly emphasised in the countryside where Volunteers take a much more civilian standpoint. Notes that some officers have issued unauthorised orders or shown a want of judgement and he is therefore in full agreement with a classification scheme for offenses and punishment and would be willing to contribute to any publication on discipline or moral training. 21 May 1920 3pp 7 21 May 1920 See copy PR4/1/4 8 26 May 1920 See copy PR4/1/5 9 Copy letter to MacSwiney from Adjutant General Irish Volunteers (Gearóid
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PR4/4/ (FILE 4 )
O'Sullivan), giving the dates of his correspondence with MacSwiney and asking him to reply. 31 May 1920 1p 10 Copy letter from MacSwiney to O/C 6th Battalion Cork Brigade No.1, asking him to inform Captain Murray, Courtbrack, that the incident in connection with civilians Messrs O'Donoghue and Punch is firmly closed and that in future such ases will be properly heard in accredited Courts of the Republic and not as olunteer Court-martials. 31 May 1920 1p 11 Copy letter from MacSwiney to O/C Battalion Cork No.1 Brigade commenting on enclosed copies of General Orders issued by the Irish Volunteer Headquarters (not enclosed). Details that all proclamations apply to both individual Volunteers and to each Company, that any Volunteer soldier held by the police should inform his superiors immediately, that all Volunteers should clearly distinguish between military and civil matters and that all Company despatches go immediately to Head-quarters for approval. 31 May 1920 1p 12 List and copy list of facts questions and answers regarding the authority and power of Local Authorities over the existing Local Government Boards. Includes questions on conflict between the two bodies, employee loyalty, tax payments and responsibility for surcharges, auditing inspection and sanitation. [May 1920] 5pp 13 Copy of the proposed Dáil Éireann Scheme to prevent County Council funds being used to settle claims under British Law. Details the establishment of Ratepayers' Protection Associations to collect rates, the payment of Council funds to these associations through the County Surveyor, the full co-operation of the Irish banks and the publication of the Associations' accounts. [May 1920] 2pp 14 Circular to MacSwiney from Seán Mc [F], Honorary Secretary Irish Volunteer Headquarters, requesting his written vote in favour of the proposed oath of allegiance to the Irish Republican Army. 2 June 1920 1p 15 Letter to MacSwiney from Adjutant General Irish Volunteers (Gearóid O'Sullivan), requesting more details on the 'Blarney matter' including whether any
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PR4/4/ (FILE 4 )
arms were taken from the barracks, whether the enemy were military or police and the numbers involved on either side. 7 June 1920 1p 16 Copy letter from MacSwiney concerning the financial problems and the legal advice offered in regard to the final break with English Local Government Boards. Problems include a rise in corporate rates, the possibility of Dublin Castle withdrawing aid and the heavy burden of malicious injury claims on the Irish Government. Advises that although each Corporation is legally liable for all claims on property and corporate funds it will be very difficult for the British Government to realise any of this. [8 June 1920] 3pp 17 Letter to MacSwiney from Adjutant General Irish Volunteers (Gearóid O'Sullivan), requesting information on behalf of Brigade Commandant Cork No.2 Brigade, about Seán Moylan, ex-Battalion Commandant, who has just joined the No.2 Brigade having been released from Cork Jail and Cork Asylum. 9 June 1920 1p 18 Copy letter from MacSwiney to Adjutant General Irish Volunteers (Gearóid O'Sullivan), confirming that he received despatches on outstanding schedules and special operations and will forward a reply. 9 June 1920 1p 19 Copy letter from MacSwiney to Adjutant General Irish Volunteers (Gearóid O'Sullivan), questioning the precise meaning of General Order number 6 1920 (new series) regarding the boycott of the Royal Irish Constabulary. Records that although this Order refers to a social boycott, several queries have arisen over the directions for a trade boycott of R.I.C. members. 9 June 1920 1p See also PR4/1/7 20 MS letter to MacSwiney from O/C 6th Battalion Cork No.1 Brigade detailing the destruction of Dipsey House and Drongownagh House by the combined actions of C, D and E Companies on the night of the ninth of June 1920. 13 June 1920 1p 21 Circular issued by the General Executive of the Irish Volunteers regarding the boycotting of policemen from trade and medical services. Details that no trader is bound to supply goods unless legally or otherwise forced to but that although
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PR4/4/ (FILE 4 )
casual workers in police households are included in the boycott the wives and families of policemen should not be boycotted. [13 June 1920] 1p 22 Circular General Order number 8 1920 (new series) noting that all seizures of arms and military stores by the enemy must be reported in full to Irish Volunteer
Headquarters. 14 June 1920
1p
23 MS letter by MacSwiney concerning his disagreement with the present choice of men and his belief in employing suitable and discreet men. 15 June 1920 1p 24 Letter to MacSwiney from Adjutant General Irish Volunteers (Gearóid O'Sullivan) acknowledging MacSwiney's dispatches. 17 June 1920 1p 25 Copy letter from the Minister for Finance (Michael Collins) to Liam de Róiste, T.D., sternly noting that only one type of gold is needed for the Dáil Éireann Loan collection in Cork and that the collection of gold is not customary as he has already pointed out. Written in Irish. 17 June 1920 1p 26 Letter to MacSwiney from Adjutant General (Gearóid O'Sullivan) referring to the success of the trade boycott against members of the Royal Irish Constabulary indicated by the present 'commandeering of goods by the enemy'. Requests that good care be taken of any merchant who joins in the boycott and warns that goods must only be supplied 'at the point of the bayonet or revolver'. 18 June 1920 1p See also PR4/4/19 27 Letter to MacSwiney from Adjutant General Irish Volunteers (Gearóid O'Sullivan), regarding transfers of Irish Volunteer officers to new posts. Acknowledges receipt of MacSwiney's letter with regard to Volunteer Keating and promises to transfer Keating to Liverpool as a member of the 2nd City Battalion. 18 June 1920 1p 28 Copy statement by Eamon de Valera, President Dáil Éireann, setting out the aim
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PR4/4/ (FILE 4 )
of his mission in the United States of America and strongly defending his criticism of the Chicago Convention. Records that he is attempting to put right the American recognition of the British Government in Ireland but notes that the previous understatement of Ireland's claim was very harmful, that the friends of Irish Freedom should have taken more action, that the charges against him of misusing Irish funds are malicious and that no doubt the people of Ireland like himself are very disappointed. 19 June 1920 2pp 29 Copy letter from MacSwiney to the Minister of Defence (Cathal Brugha) acknowledging receipt of his manifesto in regard to emigration and promising to immediately circulate it and impress on everyone that emigration is desertion. 22 June 1920 1p Headquarters without the permission of Brigade Headquarters and requesting that General Order number 2 1920 specifically relates to 'General Headquarters Staff' and not just 'Headquarters Staff'. Also acknowledges receipt of the General Order on police boycotting (number 6 1920). 22 June 1920 1p See also PR4/4/5 31 30 Copy letter from MacSwiney to C.S. (Chief of Staff, Richard Mulcahy) looking for confirmation that boycotting notices can not be issued by Battalion Copy letter from MacSwiney to C.S. (Chief of Staff, Richard Mulcahy) requesting a General Order forbidding the destruction of private property unless absolutely necessary on account of the accidental destruction of a motor car belonging to a 'friendly man' by the 2nd Brigade. 22 June 1920 1p 32 MS letter to MacSwiney from M.L. Murphy, Vice-Commandant 2nd Battalion Cork No.1 Brigade, detailing the attack on Farran Police Barracks on the night of 19 June 1920. 22 June 1920 2pp 33 Circular issued by C. O’hUigín (Kevin O'Higgins), Substitute Minister for Local Government, to all County and Borough Councils, warning that any successful criminal injury claims must first be approved by the Council Chairman and then paid out of a specific injury fund and not from general council funds. 24 June 1920 1p
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PR4/4/ (FILE 4 )
34 Copy financial statement issued by Micheál O’Coileáin (Michael Collins), Minister for Finance, detailing total income, payments made to the Treasury from Government Departments, proposed estimates from the Department of Agriculture and Forestry and statements of loans or amounts received from Irish constituencies, Great Britain and the United States of America. 25 June 1920-5 August 1920 4pp 35 MS letter of recommendation to MacSwiney from Frank Barrett, Battalion Commandant, Mid Clare Brigade, supporting Thomas Kelleher's unauthorised visit to the United States of America and vouching for his return. 29 June 1920 2pp 36 MS letter to MacSwiney from Commandant T.H. (Tom Hales) Cork No.3 Brigade regarding the successful negotiations for the purchase of Kilbrittain Castle and its lands by the local Sinn Féin Club. Requests MacSwiney's help in settling this matter and asks about the possibility of a loan from Dail Headquarters. 30 June 1920 1p 37 MacSwiney's copy preliminary report on the Limerick Technical Institute examined under the headings of Educational Ideal, Organisation of classes, Keeping of registers, Teaching methods and Administration. Strongly criticises the school's administration under the present principal and recommends an increase in staff salaries, class re-organisation, improved teaching methods and the continued support of the Dail. Also notes that the classes were unfortunately closed at the time of inspection and that he was the only inspector appointed. [June-July 1920] 4pp 38 Copy report by MacSwiney on the Limerick Technical Institute. Criticises the poor working of administration particularly the principal's position and recommends improvement through an increase in staff salaries, class re- organisation, better record-keeping, specialist teachers and regular inspections. [June-July 1920] 4pp 39 [June-July 1920] See copy PR4/4/38 40 Circular issued by MacSwiney to all Battalion Commandants strongly condemning raids on private individuals, requesting immediate inquiries and special readings of the General Order and threatening that any Irish Volunteer found guilty will be expelled permanently from all branches of the Irish Republican Army.
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