merrion street

Our Remembering 1916 series aims to record some of the oral history passed down through generations of families, which demonstrates the effects of the Rising both then and now. We spoke to members of the 1916 Relative's Association about their family members' involvement in the Rising, and what this year's commemoration will mean to them. 

You can watch the full playlist below. The episodes are, in order: 

1. Muriel McAuley: Muriel's grandfather was 1916 signatory Thomas Macdonagh, and her grandmother was Muriel Gifford. Her grand-aunt Grace Gifford was married to another 1916 signatory, James Mary Plunkett. 
2. Bróna Uí Loing: Bróna's grandfather Gerry Boland fought under Thomas MacDonagh in the Jacob's Factory garrison. His brother, Bróna's grand-uncle, Harry Boland was a member of the First Dáil and also took part in the Easter Rising, along with their younger brother Ned Boland.
3. Deirdre Nic Eanruig: Deirdre had a number of relatives who fought in the Rising, including both of her grandfathers. In our interview she told us about her grandfather John "Blimey" O'Connor, who fought in the GPO during the Rising. 
4. Ciarán Holohan: Ciarán's grandfather Patrick Hugh Holahan fought in the Four Courts garrison during the Rising, having taken part in the assault on the Magazine Fort in the Phoenix Park.