Kilmainham Gaol

A few weeks ago we went to Kilmainham Gaol (pronounced "jail") in Dublin to learn more about the Easter Uprising of 1916. If you don't know much about Irish history, the country has only been an independent republic since 1922 when it separated from the United Kingdom/Great Britain. A big reason for this split was the work of the Irish Republic Army and Fenian Brotherhood who planned an uprising in 1916 at the General Post Office (GPO) in Dublin to revolt against the control of England. Men like Patrick Pearse, James Connolly, Joseph Plunkett, Thomas MacDonagh, and Eamon DeValera were all involved in the uprising and later held as prisoners at Kilmainham Gaol. Other important people who have been kept at the prison include Charles Parnell and Constance Markievicz. It was humbling to see the place that the executions of 14 of the rebel leaders took place as well as see the conditions that they were held in. We also visited Arbour Hill Cemetery and Glasnevin Cemetery that day which were burial sites for others involved in the uprising.

Outside the jail

Inside the jail

In the Victorian wing that was added in restoration. Used in a lot of films involving jails.

The yard where the men were executed for their involvement in the Easter Uprising. 

Other part of the execution yard.

Dates of executions and who were killed.

Arbour Hill Cemetery.

At Glasnevin.

Until next time,

Max