As a reminder of the kindness and support that came from the US in the past, here we have an American committee in Balbriggan looking at the destruction there! This Mary has been spending a lot of time in Balbriggan recently and this is the first time that she became aware of this event. She will be looking forward to reading all about it!

And there has been plenty to read and learn! This is very likely the remains of the Deeds and Templar Hosiery company near Convent Lane in Balbriggan. Along with nearly 50 houses and several pubs, this factory was completely destroyed in September 1920. During the Sack of Balbriggan. Similar to the better known Burning of Cork, this event was a 'reprisal' by British forces (likey 100+ Black and Tans) for an IRA attack earlier in the day. Several people were killed and many hundreds put out of their homes and out of work. By all accounts those affected were assisted by their neighbours and local businessmen alike. And, clearly, by welcome assistance from much further afield! Compensation was also later paid by the state - covered by the taxpayer of course.....

Photographer: W. D. Hogan

Collection: Hogan Wilson Collection

Date: c. 1921.

NLI Ref.: HOGW 51

You can also view this image, and many thousands of others, on the NLI’s catalogue at catalogue.nli.ie