A flag in the possession of Roger Casement at the time of his arrest at Banna Strand is among the many artefacts in an exhibition in Limerick.
Bearing the coat of arms of Limerick, a flag that was among Robert Casement's possessions is one of the items on display at City Hall to mark the centenary of the 1916 Rising.
The Limerick City Hall exhibition showcases a range of uniforms, weaponry, photographs and historical documents, highlighting the significant role played by people from Limerick in the events of 1916.
Among its unique exhibits is a flag bearing the coat of arms of the city found among Roger Casement's personal possessions when he was arrested in Kerry in 1916.
Jacqui Hayes, Limerick city archivist, explains that the flag was recovered by the RIC at the time of Roger Casement's arrest, along with two Mauser pistols, a map of Ireland and a map of Limerick. For the past century, it had been held at the Imperial War Museum in London, but it has now been returned to Limerick.
Brian Hodkinson, curator of Limerick City Museum, outlines how the flag had been presented to Roger Casement in Germany by John St John Gaffney.
It was supposed to fly from the walls of King John's Castle, but it never did.
The exhibition also explores the story of the Daly family. Former Mayor of Limerick, John Daly, had taken part in the Fenian uprising of 1867. His nephew, Ned (Edward) Daly, later emerged as one of the leaders of the 1916 Rising. At just 25 years of age, Ned Daly was executed at Kilmainham Gaol on 4 May 1916. His sisters, among them Kathleen Clarke, were founding members of Cumann na mBan.
Dr Matthew Potter, historian at Limerick City Archives, describes the Dalys as one of the most prominent nationalist families in Ireland.
The exhibition also highlights a unique publication by the diocese of Limerick, 'The End of all Things Earthly - Faith Profiles of the 1916 Leaders', which features personal letters and testimonials. Bishop of Limerick, Brendan Leahy says the book offers valuable insight into the leaders’ strong ideals and deep faith.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 18 March 2016. The reporter is Cathy Halloran.
