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May 1
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The world in 1917 was immersed in war.
The "War to end all wars", that was expected to be over by Christmas 1914, was in its fourth year.
Within the past 12 months, a Summertime Act had introduced the idea of putting clocks forward, an idea that was not particularly popular.
The Battle of the Somme had dragged on for four months and claimed a million lives.
Lloyd George was Prime Minister of Britain, a country that was on the verge of starvation due to submarine warfare decimating its merchant fleet.
America had entered the war.
Russia was in the throes of revolution.
Ireland had witnessed an Insurrection, the execution of its leaders, and was suffering the consequences.
Home Rule was an idea on everyone's lips.
Wexford, still a busy port, was living with all of these, and getting on with things.The Corporation met, sports were played, entertainment continued, families learned of deaths on the battlefields of Europe, trade went on and the working classes organised.
In May 1917, a Trades and Labour Council was established, "WEXFORD May 1917", is the story of the month of that historic happening........
Wexford Town in 1917
The Wexford that existed in 1917 was both similar to and very much different to the present town.
It was part of the British Empire, regardless of the Easter Rising or nationalist feelings. The laws of Great Britain applied here.
Indeed, Wexford Corporation had officially condemned the Rising of 1916 and the Mayor was among a group of special constables appointed to quell any such rebellion in the town. (The resolution would be voted to be removed from the minutes some years later).
The war in Europe was taking its toll in death and injury to its sons. Trade was affected by the conflict and many foodstuffs were restricted. But other matters also shaped the town and its people in 1917.
THE TOWN
Another thing to bear in mind is that physically, Wexford was different. Open fields or scattered houses were situated on the sites of John's Road and its avenues, Davitt Road, Maudlintown, St. Aidan's Crescent, Wolfe Tone Villas, White Rock View and all points further from the quays.
At this time, the quay was not a public road.
Street lighting was by gas. A man went about evening and morning lighting and extinguishing the lights.
TRANSPORT
Motorcars were relatively new and so were not common. There was however, a speed limit of 6 miles per hour in the built up areas.
The lack of motorized transport meant that animal drawn vehicles were still abundant, with the resulting smell and manuring of the largely unpaved streets.
FIRE SERVICE
In 1917 our fire service would still have consisted of a fire engine pushed along the streets by the firemen. This would have entailed about eight men running on either side propelling the vehicle. In any case, one wonders how a horse drawn engine would have gone into many of the narrow streets and courts of the era.
Canvas hoses would also have been still in use at the time. Such equipment had to be left to dry after each use.
POPULATION AND OCCUPATION
The nearest census to 1917 was that taken up 6 years previously, but one can assume that most of the data remained accurate.
The urban population of Wexford in 1911 was 11,531, of whom almost 5,000 were aged less than 20 years.
Among the occupations recorded were 8 doctors, 9 writers, 2 painters and 3 sculptors. There were 81 railway employees, 49 printers and 8 watchmakers. Twenty-one men were involved in coach building and 15 shore based ships carpenters were recorded. The town had 12 maltsters or distillers and 55 bakers. Sweeps and soot merchants numbered 4. There were 2 female brokers and one lady accountant. Two ladies were engaged in upholstery or cabinetmaking and one was a brewer, while there was also a lady forge-keeper or blacksmith. Another 3 ladies were employed as quill or feather dressers.
Among the nationalities recorded in that census were French, Greek, Italian, Russian, Spanish, Swiss, Arabian, Chinese, American, Polish and Swedish. While a number of these may have been sailors on leave, it indicates the cosmopolitan flavour of Wexford.
Everyday Life
CRASH
As a jennet and cart, the property of Godkin and Co. was being driven up Rowe Street the animal became restive. Despite the best efforts of the driver, the cart backed into the window of Mr. Breen's drapery establishment. The window was smashed to atoms.
FLAG DAY
In accordance with a scheme formulated by Lady McDonnell and the Irish Women's Association in London to aid Irish prisoners of war in Germany, a Wexford committee was set up. With the mayor as chairman and Mrs. French of Newbay as honorary secretary, they organised a "flag day".
In this, a large number of local ladies were engaged in the sale of miniature flags. The venture raised almost £50, including £2-10-0 from a skating competition held last March.
IN MEMORIAM
Due to restrictions on paper supplies, full lists of priests at Office and High Mass for the Dead were no longer printed.
BRIDGE REPAIR
Mr. John Brown of Henrietta Street was contracted to carry out repairs to Wexford Bridge to the amount of £26.
*This would be the bridge at Carcur.
SUMMER EXCURSIONS
The Great Southern and Western Railway Company announced that it would not be offering cheap fares to Rosslare for the summer of 1917.
This brought a flood of protest with the mayor pointing out the need of healthy air and sea bathing for munitions workers and the children of the town.
COLLARS GO SOFT
It is believed that the government order against the making of starch led to the increased popularity of soft shirt collars as starch stocks ran down.
FOR SALE
The Wexford Urban Technical Committee offered its premises at North Main Street for sale. It was formerly the home of Dr. Creane.*This premises was purchased by The National Foresters
Randal McDonald put his licensed premises at South Main Street, opposite The Free Press on the market as he was retiring from business.
WORKHOUSE LIGHTS
It was learned that an English firm had offered to install a lighting system in the Workhouse that would save money on the present arrangement.
ORDER YOUR PAPER
Due to Government Order, newsagents were forbidden to return unsold newspapers. Thus, casual purchase of papers was stopped and reading matter could be had only by regular order.
THANKS
The committee of the Wexford Branch of Queen Mary's Needlework Guild thanked all who contributed to their Jumble Sale.
OUTING
The students of divinity and others from St. Peter's College had an outing by wagonettes to Cullenstown.
NO BEER
The licensed trade was suffering badly. This was caused by price increases and the decrease in beer production due to the war. Of 70 publicans, many complained of having days without any beer or stout to sell. Many were closing an hour early each night to conserve supplies.
Six pubs had closed altogether and when they were put up for sale they attracted no bidding.
The situation led to a number of assistants, carriers and bottlers losing their jobs.
FARMERS
Wexford Meat Supply and Bacon Factory Limited advised people with fat sows for sale to apply to the local police authorities for permits to slaughter.
WORKHOUSE
The Wexford Union Workhouse asked for tenders for the supply of 300 gallons per week of Pure New Milk. They also required tenders for:
Dungaree - 100 yards
White Flannel - 100 yards
Brown Habit Cloth - 200 yards
Linen Apron - 100 yards
Linen Stripe - 100 yards
TENDER
The County Council requested tenders for the supply of a "living van" for men with the County Council engine.
FOOD REGULATIONS
Meatless Days –
London: Tuesday Elsewhere: Wednesday
Public Meals:
Hotels, restaurants, clubs, boarding houses etc. are rationed by bulk on the average of weekly meals provided.
Potatoes are to be served only on meatless days and Fridays.
All teashops are rationed on bread and cakes.
These regulations apply to meals costing over 1/3.
Banned: fancy pastries, muffins and crumpets.
Regulated:cakes, buns, scones and biscuits (under strict conditions)
No ornamental cakes or buns are allowed.
No one may buy more than their needs.
The Food Controller may inspect premises suspected of hoarding.
Wheat, rye, tapioca, sago, manjoe and arrowroot are to be used only for human consumption.
No bread is to be wasted.
The use of sugar in manufacture is reduced to 40%
Tea and coffee prices are set at Tea 2/4 per lb; coffee 1/6 per lb.
National output of beer is limited to 10 million pints (previously 36 million) per annum.
Malt may be used solely in brewing
Penalty for breach of such regulations was 6 months with or without hard labour.
The War and Wexford
FOREIGN SEAMEN
The Board of Trade issued a warning against the crewmen of the pilot boat taking letters to post from foreign seamen. It was a worry that such sailors, who were not permitted to come ashore, were sending uncensored letters.
KILLED
Mrs. Hatchell of Dodds-lane was informed that her husband, Private Nicholas Hatchell of the Leinster Regiment had been killed in action. Pte. Hatchell had been on active service from the start of the war.
COMMENDATIONS
Pte. A. O'Brien from Cornmarket, serving with the 6th. Royal Irish Regiment received a commendation. His brother fell at Mons.
A commendation for gallant conduct was bestowed on Lance Corporal Michael O'Connor aged 18 years. O'Connor, from Allen Street served in the 16th Division of the Irish Brigade.
BACK IN TOWN
Sergeant John Gibson of the 6th. Royal Irish Regiment paid a return visit to Wexford. This former chauffeur to Mr. M.J. O'Connor, was struck by an aerial torpedo at Loos and was hit twice by shells at Armentierres, but survived. He received a Distinguished Conduct Medal for his war service. Gibson announced his intention to marry a local girl - Miss Powell.
MAGNIFICENT CEREMONY
On May 12th a huge crowd of people along with troops of the Munster Fusiliers and of the Royal Irish Constabulary assembled at Redmond Square.
The occasion was the conferring of the D.C.M. and the Russian 4th Class Order of St. George on Battery Sergeant Major Pounden of Enniscorthy. Pounden, who attended the ceremony on sticks was a member of the Royal field Artillery who
"..took over the battery when the officer was knocked out.... maintained the position and eventually withdrew under heavy fire."
In bestowing the decorations, General Doran of the South Irish Command said he was,
"Proud as an Irishman and a Wexfordman to bestow this honour on an Enniscorthy man".
LOST
Stoker Michael Cullen of High Street was feared dead after a disaster at sea.
Lieutenant W.H. O'Keeffe of Faythe House was reported killed in action at the age of 21.
GOVERNMENT ORDER
A Government order stated that death notices of military personnel in the press, must not give details of the theatre of war where the casualty occurred or the battalion to which he belonged.
NO PETROL
The sale of petrol was restricted. None could be sold to cars which were for hire, unless on military or ambulance work or specially authorised by the Board of Trade.
NOT DEAD
The Rev. R. Barry Doyle who was reported killed in the battle of Wadi Ghuzze during the attack on Gaza was alive and well. He continued his work with troops somewhere in Palestine.
HOME ON LEAVE
Second Lieutenant A.E. Buttle of the Royal Irish Rifles was home on leave from the Western Front.
Another Second Lieutenant, L.M. Kelly who has been home, left for London to be fitted with artificial limbs prior to returning to active service.
DARKNESS
To reduce the consumption of gas and electricity, all illuminated advertising as well as lights at the entrances to shops, cinemas and theatres were prohibited, except where police considered them essential for public safety. The prohibition applied at all hours, light and dark.
The practice of lighting the interiors of empty premises was also banned.
WILLIE REDMOND
One of the best-known local figures on active service in World War One was Major Willie Redmond. Although he could have stayed home or else worked at military headquarters, he insisted on leading his men of the Royal Irish Regiment in battle.
This leadership would lead to his death later in 1917 in an attack at Wytschaete Wood in Belgium after being injured by a shell.
Ironically for this brother of John Redmond, he was taken injured, from the battlefield by an ambulance to the Ulster Division Field Hospital. His burial at a convent in Loecre included services and volleys from the Irish and the Ulster Divisions.
Unusual as it was in times of war, Willie Redmond was buried in a coffin.
WEXFORD AMBULANCE
According to all reports, the ambulance bought with funds raised at local fairs by the Wexford branch of the United Irishwomen's Association, is running well on the Western Front.
SHIPPING LOSSES
Reports of the loss of shipping sent shivers through Wexford bodies as so many of the townspeople served in the merchant service.
In one week in May 1917, submarines sank 46 merchant vessels and 16 fishing boats. It is not known if Wexford sailors were among the dead.
PARCELS
By order, food parcels containing cereal products such as cakes and biscuits could no longer be sent to members of the army.
CHOCOLATES
The sales of luxury chocolates were banned. It was made illegal to sell chocolates costing over 3d. per ounce or sweetmeats over 2d. per ounce.
EAT LESS BREAD
Economy with food had a decisive part to play in the war. Unless bread consumption was reduced it was feared that supplies could not last until the next harvest.
People who could afford to eat something else for dinner or lunch were advised to leave the bread for the less well off.
BREAD ORDER
Fresh Loaves Forbidden.
Bread For Sale By Weight Only
1. No bread less than 12 hours old is to be offered for sale.
2. All bread must be in the shape of a one-piece oven bottom loaf or a tin loaf.
3. No carrot bread, sultana bread or milk bread is to be sold.
4. No sugar is to be used in baking.
5. There is to be no exchange of bread.
6. Bread must be sold by weight only, unless for consumption on the premises.
7. Bread must weigh 1 pound or an even number of pounds.
8. Only rolls weighing 2 ounces to be sold.
9. The bread must be weighed within 30 hours of baking.
10. Offences are against the Defence of the realm.
Social and Religious Life
MILITARY SHOW
One of the regular entertainments specially organised for military personnel stationed in Wexford, took place at the Town Hall.
Among the artistes taking part were locals as well as soldiers. Miss McCartney, Mrs. Browne, Mr. J.S. Carty, Cpl. Claydon and Pte. Pender of the Munster Fusiliers, Mrs. E.A. Whelan, John Kirwan, Misses Creane and Hamilton and Reverend Mr. Clayton all sang. Miss Doyle of Grogan's Road put on an exhibition of dancing, while Mr. Anderson of the Royal Engineers did a recitation. There was a monologue by Miss Verney. The musical accompaniment for the evening was provided by Miss Sheehan, Lieut. Whitby, Frank Breen and H.M. Brentnall.
A whist drive alternated with the concerts on successive weeks.
DANCE CLASS
The members of the Wexford Commercial Dance Class had a most enjoyable outing to the ever-popular Edenvale.
The day was rounded off with a dance at Mrs. Lennon's residence, in which 50 couples participated.
THE PICTURES
Two cinemas operated in Wexford in May 1917. The Palace in Harpurs Lane had opened in 1914 and offered two showings per night, at 7 and 9 p.m. with 3 changes of programme each week.
Meanwhile in High Street, the Theatre Royal Picturedrome packed them in with advertisements that promised,
"Nothing in the cinema world can excel 'CASTE', the evergreen comedy in 5 acts in which the principal part is taken by the famous actor Sir John Hare...... the other features this week in drama and comedy are full of interest and humour. Principal amongst the latter is a fine 2 part Keystone entitled 'A CUP OF WOE', exclusive to this house."
THE CIRCUS
Duffy's Circus arrived in town in May 1917. It promised a noble stud of horses and coloured ponies along with a troupe of lady and gentlemen acrobats. Also to be looked forward to was
"Mademoiselle. Petresque, the female human serpent - a mystery to all the medical experts of America".
Add to these, Texas Jack, the famous rough rider, a merry gathering of men in motley, 10 clowns and several rare attractions and you had an excellent entertainment.
To add to the excitement Duffy's promised a gorgeous street procession.
FEIS CARMAN
Traditional Irish entertainment was also on offer in the shape of Feis Carman.
Ø Irish language events were held in the Convent of Mercy, George Street.
Ø Irish History at the Christian Brothers School, George Street.
Ø The Town Hall was the venue for 'Speeches and Story-telling in Irish and Irish Scholarship'.
Ø The Instrumental Music and Irish Costume sections were held at the St. Iberius Hall.
Ø At the Theatre Royal there were Singing, Whistling and Jigging.
Admission to the various events cost 1/6 and 1/=.
NEW BAND
In May of 1917 the local branch of the Irish National Foresters were making arrangements for the establishment of a pipe band.
MAY PROCESSIONS
The annual May Procession held in the grounds of the Friary included a cross bearer, acolytes and Children of Mary. There were also schoolgirls dressed in white, carrying lilies and the male members of the Third Order wearing their habits.
The procession began at half past six o'clock.
Other processions were held during the month at the Presentation and St. John of God convents.
RETREAT
One of the most successful retreats in the history of the Men's Confraternity was conducted in may 1917 by the Redemptorists. Upwards of 2,000 men attended the closing ceremonies.
NO PARTITION
The bishops of Ireland signed an open letter, published in all newspapers opposing partition. They urged all people to write to government and newspapers, in order that Ireland should not become a divided country like Poland.
CHAPLAIN
Father William Fortune of Ballycanew, volunteered for and was accepted as a chaplain in the army.
SACRAMENTO CELEBRATION
The Bishop of Sacramento, Thomas Grace D.D. celebrated his golden jubilee in 1917. He was born in The Cloth Hall, Wexford, later occupied by John J. Kehoe and undertook his preliminary studies in St. Peter's College.
GAELIC RESULTS
Junior Football at Enniscorthy
Trinity Stars (Taghmon) 1-0 Brideswell 0-2
First round of district championships under N.A.G.A.C. rules.
At Wexford
Young Irelands 3-2 Castlebridge 2-1
At Taghmon
Castlebridge Emmetts 2-2 St. Anns 1-0
At Enniscorthy
Raparees 2-1 Crossabeg 4-0
THE BAN
An objection was lodged to the win by Castlebridge Emmetts in their recent match. One of the reasons for the objection was that a Castlebridge player, Matty Hayes, had attended a rugby match in Wexford Park on New Years Day 1914.
BOXING
At a boxing tournament in Waterford, Lar Roche of Killurin defeated T. Johnstone of Dublin with a third round knockout. Lar was a first cousin of champion fighter Jem Roche.
HANDBALL
Top county handballers Pat Hayes of Wexford and Dan Farrell were to meet in an important match.
The play to be the best 6 games of 11 and "a rare treat of scientific and exciting play" was promised at the Wexford Alley.
A side bet of £5 each was wagered on the match.
Later reports stated that extra seating was installed in the alley at Wexford Park for the bout.
Due to a family bereavement the match was postponed.
*This match eventually started on June 10th but in the 3rd game Hayes was hit in the nose by the ball and bleeding profusely had to have medical treatment. The game was postponed with over £114 in bets riding on the outcome.
In August the game was finally completed with Farrell winning.
RACING
A government notice states that all racing in Ireland was to be discontinued after the Curragh Meeting on May 8th to 10th.
Despite this, a race meeting was advertised and took place at Wexford Park on June 21st.
HORSE JUMPING
A major horse-jumping contest organised by a committee including members of the Killinick Hunt Club took place in Wexford Park.
The band of The Royal Lancers provided music for patrons.
The first competition of the day was won by Miss Joie O'Connor of Westlands on 'My Destiny', second was Miss Geraldine Pierce on 'Tango', James Boggan on 'Lily' was third.
In the ladies event, Miss Hanton of Ballyfane won the silver cup presented by Philip B. Pierce of Park House.
Through the Courts.
DEFENCE OF THE REALM
At Wexford Petty sessions, Michael Hore, a foundryman was charged with making statements
"Likely to cause dissatisfaction to his Majesty".
In evidence, Constable Merrigan stated that upon leaving the North Station at about 10.15 p.m., he heard a group of about 20 coming along the New Road (Redmond Road). He waited outside Doyles Foundry to observe them.
The group in question was shouting "Up the Sinn Feiners" at a number of National Volunteers who were marching along the road.
The constable said that this road was a popular place for local people to stroll and that these respectable citizens were disturbed by the shouting.
As one group shouted "Up Redmond", the other responded "Up Plunkett".
The Justice decided that the charge was proved but as it was not a serious offence he only imposed a fine of 21/= (£1.05) and not the £100 or 6 months hard labour allowed by law.
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE
A mother from Wheterald Court was fined 6d. and 4/6 costs because her child had only attended school for 3 days in the previous 4 months.
DRUNK IN CHARGE
The Harbour Constable prosecuted a local farmer for being drunk in charge of a horse and cart. In evidence it was said that the man regularly came to town to sell produce. He then spent the income on drink leaving him in a stupor for days.
BLANKET
A lady from Stonebridge-lane was in court charged with possession of a blanket, the property of the army. Evidence was given that while military police were arresting her husband for desertion, they noticed an army blanket on the bed and so the woman was charged. She maintained that the man had brought it home from France with him. It was decided to adjourn the case until the husband had been dealt with by the military.
BAKERS IN COURT
Two Wexford bakers appeared in court charged with selling bread that was less than 12 hours old.
Messrs Kelly stated that the offence occurred because the Co-Operative Society at Rosslare had come to the shop on that day and purchased a large quantity of bread for naval purposes. They had then replenished the shelves with 4-hour-old bread and thus were charged.
A nominal fine of 1/= (5p.) was imposed.
A similar fine was imposed on Nicholas Lambert after it was pointed out that 3 fresh loaves had been put on the shelves by mistake.
STEALING COAL
A woman was in court for stealing coal from the quayside. This was the property of the Wexford Gas Consumers Company and was picked up from around carts as they were being loaded. The constable said that she had a half stone of coal in her bag, although she had been warned not to take it. It was stated in defence that such scavenging was a long-standing practice on the quays and there had not been prosecutions.
Th
e justice decided to be lenient in dealing with the case but warned that such a tradition should be ended.
STREET GAMES
Walter Carter of Charlotte Street was fined 6d. for playing football on the street. He said that on returning from the chapel some children had kicked the ball to him and he kicked it back. The constable stated that Carter had picked up the ball, a football case filled with hay, and kicked it from Charlotte Street into Main Street. This caused inconvenience to people using the street for business or pleasure.
Handball playing on the streets was another hazard. Plain clothes constables were used to apprehend the culprits, among them Michael Grace and Laurence Kehoe at Johnsgate Street, who were playing against the churchyard wall. Despite complaints that there was nowhere else to play, they were fined 6d.
Peter Boyle of Johns Gate Street and Charles Delaney of Francis Street were charged with playing pitch and toss.
THE PLEDGE SAVES
A man charged with drunkenness and bad language had his case adjourned when he showed that he had taken the pledge.
Health
VACCINATION
The system of compulsory vaccination was not proving a complete success. In this month there were 1613 known defaulters in the town. In fact, during the previous half year only 17 people had been vaccinated.
Doctors were paid 2/= (10p.) per patient vaccinated and charged one guinea (£1.05) to appear in court when an offender was tried.
* The system of compulsory vaccination was to combat the many diseases rampant at the time, but for many years people were afraid of a treatment that gave an infection of something like cowpox to healthy patients.
SWEETS
Mackintoshes advertised their 'Toffee De Luxe' as beneficial for sore throats.
* Patent medicines were a great source of revenue to newspapers and brochures.
TOBACCO
The Board of Guardians was asked to reduce the tobacco order for the Workhouse because of the reduced supply during the war. This brought the reply that the institution "could scarcely do with less than at present".
INFANT DEATHS
A medical survey by the Carnegie United Kingdom Trust was carried out throughout the British Isles, into infant mortality. In Wexford they found that between 70 and 80 per thousand of the population died in infancy. The best figure recorded in the survey was 60 per 1,000. The worst was 160. From this, it appears that Wexford was one of the healthier urban areas in 1917.
THE INFIRMARY
The County Infirmary was situated at Hill Street in 1917 and was the principal in-patient centre for medical treatment outside the Workhouse.
However, this institution was in financial difficulties. A deputation met the County Council to ask that the annual grant be increased from the present £1,100 as it was not in keeping with the price rises experienced since the beginning of the war.
Since 1913 provisions were up £154; gas £58; coal £50; clothing £ 50 and medicines £ 5.
Also, prior to Dr. Hadden volunteering for military service, he administered anesthetics at £15 per year but it now costs £ 50.
In the previous year 48 operations had been carried out in the Infirmary. If these patients had been sent to Dublin, the costs would have been much greater.
The average number of patients in the Infirmary at any date was 22.
The deputation reported that a bazaar had been held to clear a previous debt, but such a method of paying for health care was not the ideal.
The Council complained about the Wexford District being expected to pay more while the Infirmary had patients from not only the town, but New Ross, Enniscorthy, Ferns and Gorey.
Extra funds were also requested for the County Asylum and the Union Workhouse.
TUBERCULOSIS
It was reported that 43 people had died of consumption in the area in the first 3 months of the year.
DOCTOR FURLONG
It was announced that Dr. S.A. Furlong, surgeon to the County Infirmary had volunteered for the Royal Army Medical Corps.
RATIONS
The new weekly rations set for officers of the Fever Hospital were:
Bread 4 lbs; potatoes 10 lbs; meat (all kinds) 2 1/2 lbs; sugar 1/2 lbs; milk 10 1/2 pints; tea 4 oz.; margarine 1 lb (or 1/2 lb of butter); cheese 1/2 lb; oatmeal, maize, meal, rice, sago or peas 3 lbs, eggs 7; fish 1 lb and jam 1/2 lb.
Local Politics
IRISH PARTY
To aid the Irish Party candidate in the South Longford election, up to 20 motorcars from the county were requisitioned. From Wexford Town, the vehicles of John Barker, William Underwood, Pat O'Brien, James Sinnott, James Murphy (Gibson Street), Thompson Brothers (2), Duff Brothers (2) and of the Imperial Hotel were used.
POLITICAL PRISONERS
Wexford Corporation passed a motion calling for an amnesty for all Irish political prisoners. It also supported a motion from Cumann na mBan for better treatment for Countess Markowitz.
SUPPORT FORD
A letter from the Industrial Development Association asked the corporations support for the locating of the Ford Traction Factory in Cork. It was said that English interests were opposed to such a location. Wexford agreed to support the Cork case.
FILM CENSORSHIP
There was heated discussion on the censorship of films at a corporation meeting. The government wanted censorship on a local level, but the members wondered who was to do it. It was suggested that the fire officer withhold licenses from cinemas whose programmes offended. Members said that Mr. Bolger was not paid enough for his present job. A decision was deferred.
SINN FEIN SUPPORT
Among the list of subscriptions to the Sinn Fein candidate in the South Longford election was £6 from the students at St. Peter's College.
Following the win by that candidate, republican flags appeared at a number of locations in Wexford. One flew from the crane on the Ballast Bank for a number of days until the police removed it. Others were hoisted at the South Railway Station and on the Christian Brothers School at Mount St. Joseph.
GOD'S TIME
A proposal of the Wexford Board of Guardians, to change the time of meetings from noon to 1.00 p.m. in New Time was opposed by Ald. Corish.
He said they should,
"Go by God Almighty's time not Lloyd George's time".
TENDERS INVITED
In May 1917, tenders were invited for work at Trimmers Lane and for the 'Colouring and Lime washing of the Fever Hospital'.
A tender for the grass of the Fever Hospital field was entered by Mr. Kirwan, but had to be denied. The grass, it was decided, was needed for the Workhouse horse.
REPUBLICAN FLAGS
When a republican flag was flown from a house in High Street, it drew large crowds and a protest from the wife of a soldier. Other members of soldier's families also assembled and were very vocal in their protests. The daughter of the house refused police requests for the removal of the flag, so her father was brought home from his work in a local foundry to take it down.
The following day a large number of houses in Keyser's Lane where families of army and navy personnel lived, displayed union jacks.
THE TECH
The Corporation met a delegation from the Wexford Urban Technical Instruction Committee that included Howard Rowe, Venerable Archdeacon Latham D.D., J.S. Thompson and Mr. Lousley (Principal).
The purpose of the meeting was to get approval for the use of the new premises at Spawell Road. These premises, originally two houses and some land previously occupied by Dr. O'Connor, Mr. Elgee and the Lawn Tennis Club, would replace the old school building at North Main Street. It was said that the Main Street building was now too small for the 240 students and a reduction in classes would mean the loss of grants.
It was agreed that the new premises were a bargain at £750, but some members were worried about the location. They wondered how students from the far end of town would manage. The delegation reported that they had tried to purchase Rossiter's Hardware and Brien and Keatings on the Main Street, but to no avail. In the end it was decided that the "walk from Maudlintown would do no harm".
The Unions
MASONS ORGANISE
A meeting to organise local masons and bricklayers was addressed by Mr. Owen Hynes, Secretary of the Ancient Guild of Incorporated Brick and Stonelayers. He explained the benefits and objectives of organisation. Surprise was expressed at the low wages paid in Wexford compared to other towns.
With a Wexford branch agreed, M. Lacy was appointed president and John Keelan as secretary.
NEW LABOUR LEAGUE
Under the auspices of Ballymore Trade and Labour Benefit Society a meeting was called to organise a branch of the Trade and Labour League. The importance of such a branch, thoroughly organised, was referred to. A branch was established and a weekly subscription was agreed.
RURAL ORGANISATIONS
In the preceding years, farm labourers had continued to organise and had been in a position in 1911 to give financial assistance to Wexford workers locked out from the foundries.
By 1917 farm labourers were organised in Rathnure and Killane; Screen; Killurin; Cleariestown; Camolin; Kiltealy; Forth District; Castlebridge; Bunclody; Blackwater; Ramsgrange; Ballymore; Kilmuckridge; Shelburne; Rower and Davidstown.
In Ballymore farm labourers wages were increased to 8/= per week with board and it was expected that a rate of £1 a week without board would be granted.
Work
WAR BONUSES
The employees of the Great Southern Railway at Rosslare Pier were being paid a war bonus of 15/=. This meant that many of them were earning almost £3 per week with overtime.
Employees of the Great Southern and Western Railway doing similar work on the same pier were paid less because they had no war bonus scheme.
EMIGRATION
Labourers were still emigrating to work in the munitions factories of England. Employment was found for them through the Labour Exchange. Recently, 20 had left for Barnsley and 18 for Avonmouth.
THE HARBOUR
At a meeting of Wexford Harbour Board attended by Ald. Joseph Kelly, Mayor Byrne T.C., John J. Kehoe J.P., James Browne T.C., P. Donovan and R. Houston, the annual report was presented.
Following representations in Parliament, the tug was to stay in Wexford and would not be requisitioned for the war effort.
An application from J. Lett of Batt Street, to be allowed to use the foreshore near Star Engineering to dry his nets was rejected. It was pointed out that the space is free to all, no rent is paid for it, and therefore there is no exclusive right.
It was reported that the port tonnage was decreasing badly. In the year 1913/14 it was 30,615 tons but for 1916/17 it had fallen to 5,910 tons.
An amount of traffic was diverting from Wexford to Ballygeary where the freight charge was 13/6 compared to Wexford's 17/=, but it was pointed out that the cost of transport from there was £1-10-0 per ton.
The report stated that there was no ballast on the Ballast Bank.
The board had saved £161-17-4 by not lighting the quays and employing less people - there was only one harbour constable employed in 1917.
The dredger 'Slaney' had been sold during the year.
MUNITIONS
About fifty young girls were employed in connection with munitions work at Mill Road Iron Works.
Prior to the introduction of female labour in this establishment, a number of young women had emigrated to similar work in Herefordshire.
SLANEY KNITTING
The Slaney Knitting Factory established by the late William Murphy was flourishing. Large numbers of girls were regularly employed in the premises at 81 South Main Street and many outworkers also earned from the business.
In 1917 the factory produced hosiery; golf jerseys; knitted coats; underskirts; rinkers (caps); bonnets; undervests; camisoles; corsets; hose; gloves; cardigan jackets; jerseys; football jerseys; cycling, fishing, shooting and sailors hose and half hose (socks). They also made silk gloves.
THE WEXFORD TRADES AND LABOUR COUNCIL
In the early months of 1917, the various labour organizations in Wexford Town realised that the interests of the working class could best be served by a council representing the various trades unions.
The idea was not new. Trades councils had existed in major cities and towns since the late 1800s.Belfast Trades Council dated from 1881 and Dublin from 1886. In rural areas too, the working classes were organised and by speaking with a single voice, they had strength, cohesion and authority.
Perhaps the bitter legacy of the Lockout in 1911 would now be turned to strength. The solidarity of the people in that struggle showed what a united grouping could do.
From canvassing of trade and labour organisations it became evident that a council was desirable in Wexford and on Sunday May 6th. 1917 a meeting took place in Monck Street to formally establish such a body.
From the Amalgamated Society of House and Ship Painters came P. Furlong, J. Goodison and P. Roberts.
John Sinnott and Thomas Walsh represented the Carpenters and Joiners, while the Amalgamated Society of Engineers sent J. Kearns, W. White and D. Costelloe. Alderman Richard Corish and R. Crosbie attended for the Sailors and Firemen's Union, with P. Rossiter and D. McDonald speaking for the Transport Workers Union. From the Typographical Association came M. Martin, W. Curtis and P. White, from the Plasterer's Society, E. Redmond and J. Doyle.The Incorporated Guild of Stone and Bricklayers sent M. Lacy and J. Keelan and the National Union of Railwaymen's delegates were D. O'Byrne and Thomas Doyle.
On that day, The Wexford Trades and Labour Council was born. It's objective was to "promote the moral and social elevation of the operative classes, to give increased efficiency to labour organisations, the consideration of all questions affecting the interests of labour and to encourage local and Irish industries". The council was to be strictly non-political and non-sectarian.
The officers elected on Sunday, May 6th. 1917 were:-
President: John Sinnott.
Vice-President: E. Redmond.
Treasurer: M. Martin.T.C.
Auditors: P. Furlong and T. Walsh.
Secretary: Patrick White, King Street.
Assistant Secretary: Ald. Richard Corish.
JUNE
At their June meetings the Trades and Labour Council addressed the high price of milk in the town.
They protested at the practice of sending patients from the Infirmary to Dublin for operations. The council urged the employment of a surgeon locally to replace Dr. Furlong who had joined the military.
There were vociferous protests at work being sent out of Wexford which could be completed equally well in the town.
A motion was also passed, against the new restrictions on brewing.
A vote of sympathy was passed with the Redmond family on the death in action of Major Willie Redmond.
JULY
A deputation from the council attended the Brewery Trade Restrictions protest at Enniscorthy.
The Wexford Trades and Labour Council affiliated to the Irish Trade Union Congress.
Further protests were made about work leaving the town, particularly printing and tailoring.
A vote of sympathy was passed on the death of Bishop Browne of Ferns.
In July, the Trades and Labour Council gave their support to a call for an increased grant from the County Council to the Wexford Infirmary. They also felt that the workers of the town should be represented on the board of the Infirmary.
The council called on Wexford people to support the Infirmary.
Concern was voiced that a new 'Representation of the People Bill' would not apply to Ireland.
AUGUST
Sympathy was expressed on the death of William Partridge, " a great loss to the Irish Labour Movement".
SEPTEMBER
The National Union of Life Insurance Agents applied to affiliate to the council.
It was proposed that the I.T.U.C. be invited to hold their next meeting at Wexford.
The Foresters were thanked for the use of their hall.
The prices of coal and potatoes came in for discussion.
A survey of foodstuffs on which prices were supposedly fixed, showed that in Wexford the costs were higher than elsewhere.
The council agreed to assist tenants whose rent was increased as such rises were illegal.
The Insurance Agents sought a war bonus such as other workers had received.
OCTOBER
The Postmen's Federation joined the Wexford Trades and Labour Council.
The battle against illegal rent increases continued.
NOVEMBER
Another group affiliated, the Ballymore Trade and Labour League. This brought the number of affiliated groups and societies to 12 and the combined membership to over 800.
A motion calling for the supply of milk and food to mothers and children under 5 years old was discussed.
The council agreed to support and assist wherever possible, the Irish Labour Party.
It was agreed to form a Town Tenants League.
HUGE MEETING
In mid-December a large meeting was held in the Town Hall, under the auspices of the Wexford Trades and Labour Council.
The principal speaker was Mr. Thomas Lawlor from Dublin and members of 15 affiliated groups as well as members of the general public attended.
Speaker after speaker referred to the pressures on workers that had been building over the past few years. It was stated that Wexford workers in the building trade were the lowest paid in Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland. The meeting learned that living costs had increased by 106% since the start of the war, but wages had not kept pace.
They spoke of "the great work to be established close by". (Presumably this was the new American airbase to be constructed at Ferrybank.) Alderman Corish said that an Irishman was worth as much as a man of any other nationality and that if they stood together they would be paid as much. The employers depended on workers being willing to step into the jobs of those dismissed for seeking better wages and conditions. If all men were properly organised, all men would benefit.And the union to join he said was the one that the employers 'ran down'.
Mr. Lawlor was delighted to be the historic town of Wexford and he called on all people, but especially the unskilled labourers to join the union. They were not fighting "for a couple of bob", but for a better life and a better country whether as part of a Commonwealth or as a Republic. He said that trades councils could fight profiteering and the wholesale export of foodstuffs from Ireland. To be effective he said that a trades council should be the 'black sheep' of a town as that showed that it was working for the people. He said that if they heard employers praising a trade union official they should "get shut of him".
After the meeting, which was very well attended, a large number of those present handed in their names to join the unions.
DECEMBER
The Crossabeg Trade and Labour League affiliated, as did the Sawyers Union.
The council protested strongly against all forms of profiteering.
A call was made for additional plots to be made available for cultivation by labourers. The Board of Guardians were to be asked to assist.
CONCLUSION
The Wexford Trades and Labour Council continued to support and speak out for the working classes over the decades as it drew more and more groups to its cause.
Wexford Council of Trade Unions or more commonly the Trades Council continues the work.
This page is based on a booklet -People of Steel - which was a commemorative publication to mark the 75th Anniversary of the foundation of Wexford Trades Council.
It was published in a limited edition of 500 copies, made possible by the generous sponsorship of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, S.I.P.T.U. and Wexford Social History Project (funded by FAS).
Other publications by Wexford Council of Trade Unions dealing with Wexford's social and economic history are:
MEN OF IRON by Michael Enright.
WEXFORD PORT - A HISTORY by Nicholas Rossiter.