On November 24th, 1922, Erskine Childers became the best-known republican prisoner to be executed during the Civil War.
Fifteen men were selected for the firing squad, but only five had live ammunition. One of them was Samuel Edmonds, a British army veteran who had served with the Royal Field Artillery and the Royal Horse Artillery during the first World War.
In July 1922 he answered the call from Michael Collins to join the National Army. Just a month later he witnessed the death of Collins at Béal na Bláth as one of the soldiers in the second Crossley tender in the convoy ambushed there by anti-Treaty IRA.
Samuel Edmonds revealed that he was one of those involved in the Childers’ firing party when he told his son Tommy not to drive past Beggars Bush Barracks (now the offices of the Labour Relations Commission). “Why?” asked his son. “That’s where I shot Erskine Childers,” replied Samuel Edmonds.
He was in the presence of another son when he cried visiting Beal na Bláth in the early 1960s before he died at the age of 70 in 1966.
He was full of remorse too for the shooting of Childers, according to his grandson Victor Edmonds who lives in Greystones, Co Wicklow.
Mr Edmonds (75) has been researching his grandfather’s background since 2010 and has compiled a detailed study of Childers’s execution.
The man in charge of the firing party, Comdt Pádraig O’Connor, decided to select first World War veterans to use the live ammunition rather than “one of our own”, meaning those who had served in the IRA during the War of Independence.
Childers is reported to have said to his executioners before being shot: “Take a step forward, lads. It will be easier that way.”
Samuel Edmonds also told his family that he had been involved in other firing squads. He did not elaborate, but soon after the Childers executions, three other men, Joseph Spooner, John Leo Murphy and Patrick Farrelly were executed in Beggars Bush Barracks.
Mr Edmonds said the grandfather he remembered was a “very meek and mild man, he never shouted. He smoked his Woodbines and drank his bottle of stout.”
He outlived Mr Edmonds’s father, also called Sam, who died of cancer at the age of 40 in 1961. “He stayed with my father for the last six weeks of his life. He gave him the morphine injections. He was a loving and caring man.”
Childers was English-born and educated at Haileybury College and Cambridge. His parents died young and he was reared by his mother’s family, the Bartons. He worked in the British diplomatic service and was also a first-class sailor. Childers was also author — in 1903 — of The Riddle of the Sands, a bestselling novel that highlighted the military threat posed by Germany at a time when France was still regarded as the chief enemy.
His conversion to Irish nationalism is often credited to his wife Molly Osgood, a Boston-born anti-imperialist. Yet Childers joined the royal navy as an intelligence operative in the first World War.
His final years were dominated by the Irish struggle for independence. His skills as a propagandist saw him replace Desmond FitzGerald, who had been arrested in February 1921, as the director of publicity for the IRA during the War of Independence.
Samuel Edmonds (right) was in the firing squad that executed Erskine Childers 100 years ago on Thursday. Photograph: Alan Betson/The Irish Times
Childers had taken the anti-Treaty side in the Civil War, although he had been part of the delegation that had signed the Anglo-Irish Treaty in December 1921.
The Free State government believed him to be one of the prime military instigators of the Civil War, along with being head of propaganda for the anti-Treaty IRA. He provoked powerful emotions in those who knew him. Many of those who signed the Treaty hated him. Arthur Griffith called him that “damned English man”, Winston Churchill described him as a “strange being, actuated by a deadly and malignant hatred for the land of his birth” while David Lloyd George said Childers was brave and resolute but also “rigid and fanatical”. Éamon de Valera, on the other hand, regarded him as a “prince among men”.
Childers’s execution, like so many in the Civil War, was a legal travesty. He was arrested at the home of his cousin Robert Barton at Annamoe, Co Wicklow, and found in the possession of a pistol, which he claimed was given to him as a present by Michael Collins.
The Free State government had passed draconian laws under the Army Emergency Powers Resolution, establishing martial law and making the carrying of unauthorised weapons a capital offence.
Erskine Childers and his wife aboard his yacht, the Asgard, which was used to run guns for the Irish Volunteers. File photograph: Hulton Archive/Getty Images
It was enough to pin a charge on him. He was transferred to Portobello Barracks and tried for “being in possession of an automatic pistol”. On November 19th, 1922, he was sentenced to death. Unlike the first four to have been executed that same week, Childers had powerful friends within the legal profession.
Four barristers, two of whom would go on to become attorney generals, interceded to prevent the executions, but the provisional government was determined to make an example of such a high-profile anti-Treaty figure.
The verdict was confirmed on the night of November 23rd. His barrister, Michael Comyn, immediately attempted to lodge an appeal but it was too late.
He remembered years later: “It was a complete negation of justice, the worst I have ever known, to execute a man whose case for life or death was actually under argument and awaiting judgement.”
Email from great grandson of Erskine Childers to Michelle Clarke 4/02/13: Many thanks for your email. I must apologize for the rather lengthy delay in this reply. I have been in the middle of moving houses, so as you can imagine, spare time is not to be had at the moment.
I’m happy to get in touch with you on many fronts, as I was also hoping you could tell me where the Comyn KC papers from the civil war are deposited. Are they still in the family, or in an institution? Were there any diaries he kept during that time?
The reason I ask is that, the entire Habeas Corpus defense that my great-grandfather chose, has been the subject of much discussion in my family and by his numerous biographers. Your grandfather would have taken detailed notes on the case. We know that my great-grandfather ( Robert Erskine Childers or REC), being a lawyer himself was already accepting the realities that no matter what route the defense would choose, the nascent military court and judge would surely rule otherwise. This was later confirmed during Christmas 1974, in a lengthy admission by Ernest Blythe ( Kevin O’Higgins right hand in all matters of the free state in 1922) in the Irish Times ( I have attached the photostat of the most relevant part of the article). Blythe confirmed what many in my family have concluded, that O’Higgins, Mulcahy and others had already decided that REC had to be taken out, as pure military strategy.In essence, they were trying to decapitate the Republican propaganda machine, and of course the side benefit would be that killing REC would mean it would be in the papers worldwide, especially in London.
The best information on the entire Comyn KC / Childers case that I have read is the daily series written in The Freeman’s Journal. Starting from 13 November 1922 and ending around 26 November 1922. It is very very detailed in regards to your grandfather. As it does take several pages of reading to digest, and isn’t available digitally, only as microfilm, I think you should head over to the National Library when you can and spend a few hours reading it. Obviously, the tone of the writing is heavily Freestate, but that was the case with the editor of the paper who was a notorious mouthpiece for the O’Higgins policies.
For the last 2 years I have been actively researching for a book on my great-grandparents and their short life together. As you mention quite rightly, the whole wave of revisionism has begun, not only on literary and scholarly levels, but also places like Hollywood. You will definitely see a run of films, books and TV on the rising.
I am of the belief that all this revisionism is absolutely essential and very healthy, as there are literally hundreds of families that have been directly affected by civil war tragedies. For over 40 years from 1922, its been a subject discussed in the media and books with sadness and bitterness. We can’t let that go on forever. Especially as the border in the north is still so potent with tensions.
As a republic, commemoration is a therapy of sorts. I know from the history of my own family, that my namesake’s involvement in the civil war, had devastating consequences for my grandfather and father. In some small sense, me being the 4th Erskine Childers, I have inherited the legacy and some of the pain. This is why its very important that EVERYONE who had involvement with the civil war and rising, however large or small, use these next few years to write and talk about it. Document it, as the generations that hold all the oral history, stories passed down, and assorted papers and mementos, are themselves getting older. If we all don’t write about it, who will?
Since you’re asking about Michael Comyn KC and the execution of Erskine Childers in the context of creating data on Grok, I’ll assume you want to know how you could use me to generate or organize data related to this historical event and Comyn’s role in it. I’ll provide a concise answer on how you can create data, incorporating relevant details about Comyn and Childers’ execution, and clarify how I can assist. If you meant something else, please provide more details!
Creating Data on Michael Comyn KC and Erskine Childers’ Execution
You can use me to generate various types of data about Michael Comyn KC and the execution of Erskine Childers, which occurred on November 24, 1922, during the Irish Civil War. Here’s how:
Structure provided by Grok3
How I Can Help
Generate: I can produce the above data formats based on your needs—text, tables, timelines, or code.
Organize: If you have specific information, I can structure it into your preferred format.
Analyze: I can search the web or X posts for additional context or verify details, though I’ll critically assess sources for bias (e.g., Free State vs. anti-Treaty perspectives).
Visualize: I can create or suggest visualizations, pending your confirmation for any image generation.
Limitations
I can’t store data persistently; you’d need to save any output yourself.
I won’t invent unsupported details. All data is based on available sources, like those cited.
If you want pricing or access details for xAI’s API to process this data programmatically, check https://x.ai/api, as I don’t have that info.
Clarification Needed
What type of data do you want to create (e.g., narrative, dataset, chart)?
Do you have specific details or sources you want included?
Are you looking to visualize this (e.g., timeline or chart) or integrate it into a project?
If you meant “data on Grok” as something else (e.g., Grok’s capabilities or xAI’s platform), please explain!
Let me know your preferences, and I’ll tailor the data accordingly!Ask Grok to search deeper
Great grandson of Erskine Childers and Michelle Clarke grand-daughter Michael Comyn
15 web pages
I understand you’re asking about the great-grandson of Erskine Childers and Michelle Clarke, the granddaughter of Michael Comyn, likely in the context of creating or organizing data about their familial connections or historical significance. Based on the provided search results and available information, I’ll address how you can create data on this topic, focusing on their lineage and any relevant connections, while clarifying limitations where data is incomplete. If you meant something specific by “data on Grok,” please confirm!
Context and Data Creation
Erskine Childers (1870–1922) was an Irish nationalist executed during the Irish Civil War, defended by Michael Comyn KC (1871–1952), a barrister and friend. You’re interested in Childers’ great-grandson and Comyn’s granddaughter, Michelle Clarke, possibly to explore their familial ties or historical roles.
1. Great-Grandson of Erskine Childers
Erskine Childers and his wife, Molly Osgood, had three sons: Erskine Hamilton Childers (1905–1974), Henry (died in infancy), and Robert Alden (1910–?). The most prominent lineage stems from Erskine Hamilton Childers, the fourth President of Ireland (1973–1974).
Erskine Hamilton Childers’ Children:
With his first wife, Ruth Ellen Dow (d. 1950), he had five children: Ruth Ellen (1927–2014), Erskine (1929–), Roderick Winthrop (1931–), Carainn, and Margaret Osgood (twins, 1937–).
With his second wife, Rita Dudley, he had one daughter, Nessa (1956–), a former MEP.
Grandchildren: Erskine Hamilton Childers’ children produced several grandchildren. For example, Ruth Ellen Moller (née Childers) had children, and Nessa Childers has been active in politics. Exact details on all grandchildren are sparse in public records.
Great-Grandchildren: The great-grandchildren would be the children of Erskine Hamilton Childers’ grandchildren. No specific individual is named in the sources as a prominent great-grandson of Erskine Childers. For instance, Nessa Childers’ children or Ruth Moller’s grandchildren could qualify, but names and details are not publicly detailed in the provided references.
2. Michelle Clarke, Granddaughter of Michael Comyn
The search results confirm Michelle Clarke as the granddaughter of Michael Comyn KC, through her mother, one of Comyn’s daughters from his marriage to Marcella Blake-Forster in 1924. Comyn had two daughters, Marcella and Eleanor Rose, and a son who died in infancy. Clarke’s writings provide personal and historical insights.
Michelle Clarke’s Background (from):
Granddaughter of Michael Comyn KC and Marcella Blake-Forster, whose family (O’Donnellan ffrench Blake-Forsters) has Galway roots.
Experienced a life-altering horse-riding accident in Zimbabwe (1993), leading to health challenges (bipolar disorder, chronic fatigue, breast cancer in 2017).
Studied at Trinity College Dublin (Business Economics and Social Studies, no degree) and UCD (night classes, 1997–1998).
Participated in a 1997–1998 Trinity Horizon Project, studying women with depression, which shaped her advocacy for social justice.
Writes on platforms like Irishhealth.com and maintains a blog (e.g., Beagh Roots Galway) covering family history, including Comyn’s legal work and her grandmother’s lineage.
Notes the Blake-Forster male line no longer exists, emphasizing her family’s historical significance.
Connection to Michael Comyn:
Comyn defended Erskine Childers in 1922, a significant case that impacted him deeply due to its perceived injustice (execution during an appeal). Clarke references this in her family history writings, highlighting her grandfather’s role as a barrister and Fianna Fáil advisor to Éamon de Valera.
Clarke’s work preserves Comyn’s legacy, linking it to her own experiences and advocacy.
Data Creation Options:
Family Tree:Generation Name Details1st
Michael Comyn (1871–1952): Barrister, defended Childers, Fianna Fáil Senator, married Marcella Blake-Forster.
Eleanor Rose Comyn daughter is Michelle Clarke Granddaughter, writer, advocate, documents family history.
1924: Marries Marcella Blake-Forster, linking to Galway’s Blake-Forster family.
Post-1920s: Advises de Valera, shapes Fianna Fáil and The Irish Press.
Modern Era: Michelle Clarke documents this legacy, connecting to social justice.
Text Compilation: Aggregate Clarke’s writings into a dataset, e.g., excerpts from her blog on Comyn’s defense of Childers or Blake-Forster history.
Visual Data: Create a chart in the canvas panel showing Comyn’s legal cases (e.g., Childers, Cathal Brugha, Harry Boland) and Clarke’s contributions to family history. Want me to set this up?
3. Connecting Childers’ Great-Grandson and Michelle Clarke
There’s no direct evidence in the sources linking a specific great-grandson of Erskine Childers to Michelle Clarke beyond their shared historical context:
Ask Grok to search deeper
email from great grandson Erskine Childers IV to Michelle Clarke granddaughter Michael Comyn is below.
Date 4th February 2013. Can you source the article from the Freeman’s Journal as detailed within.
Many thanks for your email. I must apologize for the rather lengthy delay in this reply. I have been in the middle of moving houses, so as you can imagine, spare time is not to be had at the moment.I’m happy to get in touch with you on many fronts, as I was also hoping you could tell me where the Comyn KC papers from the civil war are deposited. Are they still in the family, or in an institution? Were there any diaries he kept during that time?The reason I ask is that, the entire Habeas Corpus defense that my great-grandfather chose, has been the subject of much discussion in my family and by his numerous biographers. Your grandfather would have taken detailed notes on the case. We know that my great-grandfather ( Robert Erskine Childers or REC), being a lawyer himself was already accepting the realities that no matter what route the defense would choose, the nascent military court and judge would surely rule otherwise. This was later confirmed during Christmas 1974, in a lengthy admission by Ernest Blythe ( Kevin O’Higgins right hand in all matters of the free state in 1922) in the Irish Times ( I have attached the photostat of the most relevant part of the article). Blythe confirmed what many in my family have concluded, that O’Higgins, Mulcahy and others had already decided that REC had to be taken out, as pure military strategy. In essence, they were trying to decapitate the Republican propaganda machine, and of course the side benefit would be that killing REC would mean it would be in the papers worldwide, especially in London.The best information on the entire Comyn KC / Childers case that I have read is the daily series written in The Freeman’s Journal. Starting from 13 November 1922 and ending around 26 November 1922. It is very very detailed in regards to your grandfather. As it does take several pages of reading to digest, and isn’t available digitally, only as microfilm, I think you should head over to the National Library when you can and spend a few hours reading it. Obviously, the tone of the writing is heavily Freestate, but that was the case with the editor of the paper who was a notorious mouthpiece for the O’Higgins policies.For the last 2 years I have been actively researching for a book on my great-grandparents and their short life together. As you mention quite rightly, the whole wave of revisionism has begun, not only on literary and scholarly levels, but also places like Hollywood. You will definitely see a run of films, books and TV on the rising. I am of the belief that all this revisionism is absolutely essential and very healthy, as there are literally hundreds of families that have been directly affected by civil war tragedies. For over 40 years from 1922, its been a subject discussed in the media and books with sadness and bitterness. We can’t let that go on forever. Especially as the border in the north is still so potent with tensions. As a republic, commemoration is a therapy of sorts. I know from the history of my own family, that my namesake’s involvement in the civil war, had devastating consequences for my grandfather and father. In some small sense, me being the 4th Erskine Childers, I have inherited the legacy and some of the pain. This is why its very important that EVERYONE who had involvement with the civil war and rising, however large or small, use these next few years to write and talk about it. Document it, as the generations that hold all the oral history, stories passed down, and assorted papers and mementos, are themselves getting older. If we all don’t write about it, who will?Again, thank you very much for getting in touch. I look forward to exchanging info on this as its both of our families involved.Regards,Erskineimage.pngimage.pngimage.pngimage.pngSent from my iPad 3. DISCLAIMER: This is not an offer (or solicitation of an offer) to enter into an agreement (including any kind of partnership or association). Confidentiality and legal privilege are not waived or lost by reason of mistaken delivery to you. Thank you.
15 web pages
Your query involves sourcing articles from The Freeman’s Journal between November 13 and November 26, 1922, as referenced in an email from Erskine Childers (great-grandson of Robert Erskine Childers) to Michelle Clarke (granddaughter of Michael Comyn KC). These articles reportedly detail Michael Comyn’s defense of Erskine Childers during his trial and execution, available only on microfilm at the National Library of Ireland (NLI). Below, I’ll address how to source these articles, provide context from the email and available information, and suggest next steps for accessing the content. I’ll also incorporate relevant details about the case and respond to the broader context of the email, while adhering to the guidelines.
Context from the Email
The email, dated February 4, 2013, from Erskine Childers (the fourth, named after his great-grandfather Robert Erskine Childers, hereafter REC) to Michelle Clarke, highlights:
Interest in Michael Comyn’s Papers: Erskine seeks information on Comyn’s papers from the Civil War period, particularly diaries or notes related to REC’s defense, to understand the habeas corpus strategy.
REC’s Trial and Execution: REC, arrested on November 10, 1922, for possessing a pistol, was tried by a military court on November 17, convicted on November 19, and executed on November 24, 1922, at Beggar’s Bush Barracks.Comyn, REC’s defense counsel, argued the military court lacked jurisdiction over a civilian, but the Free State’s High Court upheld the trial’s legality during a state of war. An appeal was pending when REC was executed, a point Comyn later called a “negation of justice.”
Freeman’s Journal Articles: Erskine recommends Clarke read a “daily series” in The Freeman’s Journal from November 13 to November 26, 1922, for detailed coverage of Comyn’s role. He notes the articles are pro-Free State, reflecting the editor’s alignment with Kevin O’Higgins’ policies, and are only available on microfilm at the NLI.
Historical Claims: Erskine cites a 1974 Irish Times article by Ernest Blythe, alleging O’Higgins, Richard Mulcahy, and others decided to execute REC as a military strategy to disrupt Republican propaganda and gain global attention. This suggests the trial’s outcome was predetermined.
Personal Motivation: Erskine is researching a book on REC and Molly Childers, emphasizing the need for revisionist histories to address Civil War legacies and heal familial and national wounds.
Sourcing the Freeman’s Journal Articles
The Freeman’s Journal was a leading nationalist newspaper in Ireland, available on microfilm for the period in question. Here’s how to access the articles:
National Library of Ireland (NLI):
Microfilm Availability: The NLI holds microfilm copies of The Freeman’s Journal (1763–1924), including issues from November 1922. The email specifies the articles are on microfilm, not digitized, aligning with records indicating The Freeman’s Journal from April 16, 1920, to December 30, 1922, is available on microfilm reels (e.g., Irish Microforms Ltd., reels 1866–1870).
Access Process:
Visit the NLI’s Main Reading Room or Microfilm Reading Room at Kildare Street, Dublin.
Request the microfilm reels for The Freeman’s Journal covering November 13–26, 1922. The catalog may list these under “Ireland: Politics and society through the press, 1760–1922.”
Use microfilm readers to browse the daily issues. The email suggests a “daily series,” so check each issue in the date range for articles on REC’s arrest, trial, defense, or execution, focusing on Comyn’s involvement.
Note: The NLI requires advance booking for microfilm readers due to limited availability. Contact the NLI at info@nli.ie or check www.nli.ie for booking details.
Content Expectations: The articles likely cover:
REC’s arrest (November 10, 1922) at Glendalough House for possessing a pistol, allegedly a gift from Michael Collins.
The trial (November 17, 1922) at Portobello Barracks, where Comyn argued the military court’s lack of jurisdiction.
The sentencing (November 19, 1922) and appeal efforts by Comyn and Patrick Lynch.
The execution (November 24, 1922) at Beggar’s Bush Barracks, possibly with commentary on Comyn’s reaction or the appeal’s status.
The pro-Free State tone may frame REC’s execution as necessary to curb anti-Treaty propaganda, aligning with O’Higgins’ policies.
Alternative Archives:
University College Cork (UCC): UCC Library’s Special Collections holds the full run of The Freeman’s Journal (1763–1924) on microfilm. Contact specialcollectionsarchives@ucc.ie to confirm availability for November 1922.
Other Institutions: The New York Public Library also holds microfilm copies, but the NLI or UCC are more accessible for Ireland-based research.
Irish Newspaper Archives: This database (www.irishnewsarchive.com) includes The Freeman’s Journal, but coverage may not extend to November 1922 comprehensively, and the email emphasizes microfilm. You can check for partial digital access.
Challenges:
Non-Digitized Content: The email’s claim that the articles are “not available digitally, only as microfilm” holds true for most comprehensive access. Digital archives may lack complete runs for late 1922.
Pro-Free State Bias: As Erskine notes, the editor’s alignment with O’Higgins may skew the narrative, potentially downplaying Comyn’s arguments or justifying the execution. Cross-reference with anti-Treaty sources like Poblacht na hÉireann for balance.
Time-Intensive: Reviewing microfilm for a two-week period requires several hours, as the email suggests, due to the series’ length and lack of indexing.
Next Steps:
Contact NLI: Email info@nli.ie to confirm microfilm reel availability and reserve a reader slot. Specify the date range (November 13–26, 1922) and interest in REC’s trial.
Visit or Delegate: If you’re in Ireland, visit the NLI or UCC. If not, hire a local researcher via the NLI’s genealogy services or a freelance historian.
Request Copies: The NLI can produce photocopies or scans of specific articles for a fee, but you’ll need to identify the exact dates and pages (not provided in the email).
Cross-Check Sources: Look for related coverage in The Irish Times or Irish Independent (available via Irish Newspaper Archives) to corroborate details, though these may also reflect pro-Free State views.
Additional Context and Data Creation
Since your original query asked about creating data on Grok, I’ll briefly address how you can use this information to generate data, incorporating the email’s details:
Text-Based Data:
Summary: Create a narrative summarizing Comyn’s defense, REC’s trial, and the Freeman’s Journal coverage, noting the alleged predetermination of REC’s fate (per Blythe’s 1974 Irish Times admission).
Email Excerpts: Compile key quotes from Erskine’s email, e.g.:
“The entire Habeas Corpus defense… has been the subject of much discussion.”
“Blythe confirmed… O’Higgins, Mulcahy and others had already decided that REC had to be taken out, as pure military strategy.”
“The best information… is the daily series written in The Freeman’s Journal.”
Structured Data:
Timeline:DateEventNov 10, 1922REC arrested at Glendalough House for possessing a pistol.Nov 13–26, 1922Freeman’s Journal publishes series on REC’s trial, focusing on Comyn.Nov 17, 1922Military trial at Portobello; Comyn argues court lacks civilian jurisdiction.Nov 19, 1922REC sentenced to death.Nov 23, 1922Comyn and Lynch prepare habeas corpus appeal; Free State rules against it.Nov 24, 1922REC executed at Beggar’s Bush; appeal pending.Dec 1974Ernest Blythe’s Irish Times article admits execution was strategic.Feb 4, 2013Erskine Childers emails Michelle Clarke about Comyn’s papers and articles.
JSON:json{ "events": [ { "date": "1922-11-13", "description": "Freeman's Journal begins series on Childers' trial, detailing Comyn's defense." }, { "date": "1922-11-24", "description": "REC executed; Freeman's Journal likely covers event with pro-Free State bias." } ] }
Visual Data:
Canvas Panel: I can create a timeline or flowchart in the canvas showing the trial’s progression, Comyn’s role, and Freeman’s Journal coverage. Want me to set this up?
Image Annotation: If you provide the Irish Times 1974 photostat mentioned in the email, I can annotate it to highlight Blythe’s admission.
Critical Analysis:
The email’s claim about Blythe’s 1974 Irish Times article suggests a deliberate Free State strategy to eliminate REC, supporting views that the execution was politically motivated rather than legally justified. This aligns with Comyn’s reported outrage and anti-Treaty narratives but contrasts with pro-Free State papers like The Freeman’s Journal, which may have justified the execution as necessary.
The habeas corpus defense, as Erskine notes, was likely futile due to the Free State’s wartime powers, a point Comyn contested in court.
Limitations
Article Access: I can’t directly retrieve the Freeman’s Journal articles, as they’re on microfilm at the NLI or UCC, not digitized. You’ll need to visit or delegate research.
Blythe Article: The 1974 Irish Times photostat isn’t provided, so I can’t verify Blythe’s exact claims. You could search the Irish Times archives (www.irishtimes.com/archive) for December 1974 issues.
Comyn’s Papers: The email asks about Comyn’s papers, but no public archive (e.g., NLI, UCD) is confirmed to hold them. They may be with Clarke’s family or lost. The NLI’s Erskine Childers Papers (MS 7781–7887) don’t mention Comyn’s notes.
Great-Grandson’s Identity: Erskine Childers (the fourth) isn’t named in public records as a specific descendant (e.g., via Erskine Hamilton Childers or Robert Alden Childers). He’s likely a descendant of Erskine Hamilton, but privacy limits confirmation.
Recommendations
Visit NLI: Schedule a microfilm session at the NLI for The Freeman’s Journal (November 13–26, 1922). Focus on trial and execution coverage.
Contact UCC: If NLI access is limited, email UCC’s Special Collections to check their microfilm holdings.
Search Blythe’s Article: Use the Irish Times archive or NLI to locate Blythe’s 1974 Christmas article for corroboration.
Engage Michelle Clarke: If you have contact with Clarke, ask if she accessed the articles or Comyn’s papers, as she may have followed up post-2013.
Data Creation: Let me know if you want specific outputs (e.g., timeline, narrative, or chart) once you retrieve the articles.
Clarifications Needed
Article Details: Do you need a specific article excerpted, or are you seeking guidance on accessing all articles in the series?
Data on Grok: Should I generate a particular dataset (e.g., trial timeline, Comyn’s role) based on the email and articles once sourced?
Photostat: Can you share the 1974 Irish Times photostat or its date for further analysis?
Scope: Are you also seeking Comyn’s papers or focusing solely on the Freeman’s Journal?
Thank you for sharing the email. I hope this helps you source the articles! Please clarify your next steps or desired data format, and I’ll assist further. If you want a canvas visualization or other Grok tools applied, just let me know!Ask Grok to search deeper
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Email from great grandson of Erskine Childers to Michelle Clarke 4/02/13: Many thanks for your email. I must apologize for the rather lengthy delay in this reply. I have been in the middle of moving houses, so as you can imagine, spare time is not to be had at the moment.
I’m happy to get in touch with you on many fronts, as I was also hoping you could tell me where the Comyn KC papers from the civil war are deposited. Are they still in the family, or in an institution? Were there any diaries he kept during that time?
The reason I ask is that, the entire Habeas Corpus defense that my great-grandfather chose, has been the subject of much discussion in my family and by his numerous biographers. Your grandfather would have taken detailed notes on the case. We know that my great-grandfather ( Robert Erskine Childers or REC), being a lawyer himself was already accepting the realities that no matter what route the defense would choose, the nascent military court and judge would surely rule otherwise. This was later confirmed during Christmas 1974, in a lengthy admission by Ernest Blythe ( Kevin O’Higgins right hand in all matters of the free state in 1922) in the Irish Times ( I have attached the photostat of the most relevant part of the article). Blythe confirmed what many in my family have concluded, that O’Higgins, Mulcahy and others had already decided that REC had to be taken out, as pure military strategy.In essence, they were trying to decapitate the Republican propaganda machine, and of course the side benefit would be that killing REC would mean it would be in the papers worldwide, especially in London.
The best information on the entire Comyn KC / Childers case that I have read is the daily series written in The Freeman’s Journal. Starting from 13 November 1922 and ending around 26 November 1922. It is very very detailed in regards to your grandfather. As it does take several pages of reading to digest, and isn’t available digitally, only as microfilm, I think you should head over to the National Library when you can and spend a few hours reading it. Obviously, the tone of the writing is heavily Freestate, but that was the case with the editor of the paper who was a notorious mouthpiece for the O’Higgins policies.
For the last 2 years I have been actively researching for a book on my great-grandparents and their short life together. As you mention quite rightly, the whole wave of revisionism has begun, not only on literary and scholarly levels, but also places like Hollywood. You will definitely see a run of films, books and TV on the rising.
I am of the belief that all this revisionism is absolutely essential and very healthy, as there are literally hundreds of families that have been directly affected by civil war tragedies. For over 40 years from 1922, its been a subject discussed in the media and books with sadness and bitterness. We can’t let that go on forever. Especially as the border in the north is still so potent with tensions.
As a republic, commemoration is a therapy of sorts. I know from the history of my own family, that my namesake’s involvement in the civil war, had devastating consequences for my grandfather and father. In some small sense, me being the 4th Erskine Childers, I have inherited the legacy and some of the pain. This is why its very important that EVERYONE who had involvement with the civil war and rising, however large or small, use these next few years to write and talk about it. Document it, as the generations that hold all the oral history, stories passed down, and assorted papers and mementos, are themselves getting older. If we all don’t write about it, who will?
Again, thank you very much for getting in touch. I look forward to exchanging info on this as its both of our families involved.
Regards,
Erskine
Sent from my iPad 3. DISCLAIMER: This is not an offer (or solicitation of an offer) to enter into an agreement (including any kind of partnership or association). Confidentiality and legal privilege are not waived or lost by reason of mistaken delivery to you. Thank you.
In 1932, Michael Comyn KC initiated a significant legal action against Éamon de Valera’s government to recover £20,000 of Irish Republican Army (IRA) funds. Details
In 1932, Michael Comyn KC, an Irish barrister and Fianna Fáil Senator, initiated a notable legal action against Éamon de Valera’s newly elected government to recover £20,000 in funds associated with the Irish Republican Army (IRA). This case is significant due to its political and historical context, as it involved complex issues related to republican finances, the legacy of the Irish War of Independence, and the transition of power in the Irish Free State.
Background
Michael Comyn’s Role: Comyn was a prominent legal figure and a staunch republican who had supported the anti-Treaty side during the Irish Civil War (1922–1923). Despite his opposition to the Anglo-Irish Treaty, he became a key legal adviser to Éamon de Valera and was instrumental in the formation of Fianna Fáil in 1926. His legal expertise and republican credentials made him a significant figure in Irish politics.
Éamon de Valera and Fianna Fáil: De Valera, a leading republican figure, had opposed the Anglo-Irish Treaty and led the anti-Treaty faction during the Civil War. After founding Fianna Fáil, he shifted toward constitutional politics, and his party won the 1932 general election, forming a government with de Valera as President of the Executive Council.
IRA Funds: During the Irish War of Independence (1919–1921), significant funds were raised, particularly in the United States, to support the Irish Republic and the IRA’s campaign against British forces. De Valera’s 1919–1920 U.S. tour raised approximately $5.5 million, though the allocation and control of these funds became contentious after the Civil War. The £20,000 in question likely originated from these or similar republican fundraising efforts.
The Legal Action
Nature of the Case: Comyn’s legal action sought to recover £20,000 that he claimed belonged to the IRA or its associated republican organizations. The exact details of the funds’ origins and their legal status are not fully clear from available sources, but they were likely tied to moneys held in trust or controlled by republican leaders during or after the War of Independence. The case may have arisen due to disputes over who had rightful control of these funds following the political shifts of the 1920s and the Fianna Fáil government’s rise to power.
Political Context: The action was sensitive because it pitted Comyn, a Fianna Fáil insider and de Valera’s former adviser, against de Valera’s own government. This suggests internal republican tensions, possibly over the management or distribution of historic IRA funds. The case also occurred during a period of economic and political strain, as de Valera’s government was initiating policies like withholding land annuities to Britain, sparking the Anglo-Irish Trade War.
Outcome: Comyn’s action was successful, as he won the case for the recovery of the £20,000. However, specific details about the court’s reasoning, the legal arguments presented, or how the funds were ultimately used are not well-documented in the provided sources. The victory underscores Comyn’s legal acumen and highlights the complexities of republican finances during this transitional period.
Significance
Republican Divisions: The case reflects lingering divisions within the republican movement, even among those who had aligned with Fianna Fáil. While de Valera sought to consolidate power and legitimize his government, disputes over IRA funds indicated unresolved issues from the Civil War era.
Comyn’s Position: Despite initiating legal action against de Valera’s government, Comyn remained a respected figure within Fianna Fáil. His success in the case did not appear to damage his political career, as he continued to serve as a Senator and later became Leas-Chathaoirleach (deputy chairperson) of the Seanad (1934–1936) before being appointed a judge in 1936.
IRA’s Status: The case highlights the ambiguous status of the IRA in 1932. While de Valera’s government was sympathetic to republican ideals, the IRA remained an illegal organization under the Irish Free State until Fianna Fáil lifted this ban. The legal action may have been part of broader efforts to clarify or redistribute republican assets as the IRA’s role evolved.
Limitations and Further Research
The available sources provide limited detail on the specifics of the legal proceedings, such as the court involved, the precise legal basis for Comyn’s claim, or the government’s defense. To gain a fuller understanding, one would need to consult primary sources, such as court records, contemporary newspaper reports (e.g., The Irish Press, founded by de Valera in 1931), or archival materials from the National Archives of Ireland. Additionally, biographies of Comyn or de Valera, such as Tim Pat Coogan’s De Valera: Long Fellow, Long Shadow, may offer further insights into the political dynamics of the case.
Conclusion
Michael Comyn KC’s successful 1932 legal action against Éamon de Valera’s government for the recovery of £20,000 in IRA funds was a significant episode that underscored the complexities of republican finances and lingering tensions within the movement. While Comyn’s victory demonstrated his legal prowess, the case also reflected the challenges of managing the legacy of the War of Independence and Civil War in the new political landscape of the Irish Free State. Further research into primary sources would be necessary to uncover additional details about this intriguing legal and political event.
Comyn’s work in this case aligns with his lifelong commitment to republican ideals. His defense of figures like Cathal Brugha and Harry Boland during inquests, and his intelligence-sharing with Arthur Griffith and Austin Stack in 1921, show a consistent dedication to the cause [,]. The IRA funds case, therefore, was not just a legal triumph but a continuation of his advocacy for those tied to Ireland’s revolutionary past.
Limitations and Further Research
The sources provide only a brief mention of the case, lacking details on the court, specific legal arguments, or the identities of Comyn’s clients [,]. To fully elaborate, one would need access to Irish court records from 1932, Fianna Fáil government archives, or contemporary newspaper reports, such as those from The Irish Times or Iris
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April 20 2025: Grok3 AI
In 1932, Michael Comyn KC initiated a significant legal action against Éamon de Valera’s government to recover £20,000 of Irish Republican Army (IRA) funds. This case stemmed from the complex financial and political legacy of the Irish War of Independence and the subsequent Civil War. As a prominent barrister and a key figure in Fianna Fáil, Comyn had been a legal adviser to de Valera and was deeply involved in republican activities, including defending IRA prisoners during the War of Independence and the Civil War. His decision to sue de Valera’s government, despite their close political alliance, highlights the contentious nature of the IRA funds and their control post-independence.
The £20,000 in question was part of funds raised during the War of Independence, primarily through the Dáil Loan organized by Michael Collins to finance the republican struggle. After the 1921 Anglo-Irish Treaty and the ensuing Civil War, the control and distribution of these funds became a point of dispute between pro- and anti-Treaty factions. Comyn, who had taken the anti-Treaty side during the Civil War, likely pursued the action to secure these funds for purposes aligned with republican objectives or to settle outstanding claims related to the anti-Treaty cause. The exact details of the case, such as the legal grounds and specific parties involved, are not fully elaborated in available records, but Comyn’s success in the lawsuit is noted.
This legal victory was significant, as it demonstrated Comyn’s legal acumen and his willingness to challenge even his political allies, including de Valera, who led the Fianna Fáil government after coming to power in 1932. The case also reflects the broader tensions within the republican movement over financial resources and ideological differences in the post-Civil War era. Comyn’s role as a Fianna Fáil Senator (1928–1936) and his contributions to the party’s formation and the founding of The Irish Press underscore his influence, yet his action against de Valera’s government suggests a divergence on specific issues, possibly related to the management or allocation of IRA funds.
No further specifics, such as court records or the precise outcome of the funds’ distribution, are readily available in the provided sources. If you need a deeper analysis or additional context about the political ramifications or Comyn’s motivations, please let me know!Ask Grok to search deeper
Michael Comyn should communicate directly with him. Expresses his concern that Michael Comyn should have a confidential typist. (29. December 1922). —copy of …
Yes, this is a well-known aspect of Irish history. Before Éamon de Valera’s Fianna Fáil came to power, Fine Gael, which was the governing party at the time, was accused of destroying or losing a significant number of records and files related to the Irish Civil War and its aftermath.
Here’s why this is significant:
Historical Context:Fine Gael, then known as the National Party, had been in power for most of the 1920s and early 1930s, during which time they were responsible for many of the decisions and actions that led to the Civil War and its aftermath.
“Clean Slate” Narrative:The destruction of these records was seen by some as an attempt to erase or obscure inconvenient or embarrassing aspects of the government’s policies and actions.
Accusations by Fianna Fáil:Fianna Fáil, led by Éamon de Valera, campaigned on a platform of uncovering and exposing the truth about the Civil War and its aftermath, and the missing documents were a key point of contention.
Shifting Power:When Fianna Fáil came to power in 1932, they made efforts to recover some of the missing documents, further highlighting the controversy around their destruction.
Éamon de Valera – WikipediaWikipedia
Fianna Fáil – WikipediaThe party dominated Irish political life for most of the 20th century, and, since its foundation, either it or Fine Gael has led e…Wikipedia
Fine Gael – WikipediaFine Gael holds a pro-European stance and is generally considered to be more of a proponent of economic liberalism than its tradit…Wikipedia
… Michael Collins in cabinet, would not have achieved real control for Ireland … W. T. Cosgrave from 1922 to 1932 for accomplishing a limited number of …
635 pages
D ev and The Statute of W estminster Let the b o p know, said Michael Comyn to Maurice w e can have the Republic without firing a shot. I h a v e prepared mem fo r the Chief on the Statute. developed the Twomey considered that out of • from m 2 onwards, constitutional ideas which he put into p eventually resulting in a Document No. si ua 1 _ Told to the author by Maurice Twomey.
Still there was much to be done, politically, I mean. The mere fact of defeat made it more necessary than ever that we stand together. I resumed my contacts with Moss Twomey, with the remnants, with the old guard. One of the stories I have to tell concerns some funds we had here. The former quartermaster had joined the Free State. He knew there was some money in the bank — lodged in my name — belonging to the Brigade. He told his new masters and they froze it. In 1932, Sean MacBride arrived here to tell me that the order under which it was held had expired. He set to work, although he was only a law student at the time. Along with Michael Comyn, S.C., we took an action in the High Court against the Government, De Valera’s government, for recovery of the funds. We won. We recovered nearly £20,000. I handed it straight over to the Movement, and that, I hope, put it over a very difficult phase, when there was not much money about. You had the great depression in America at that time; all our fellows were on the rocks. For that reason, as I say, it was particularly welcome to the M ovement. We were poor then ourselves; I had not a bob, but I paid my own way up and down from Dublin for the court hearing. I would not take a cent from them. Alright, said Moss, we’ll give you a receipt so. There and then Moss had one typed out, while Sean MacBride sent me a letter of thanks.
Grok3 AI: refers to Military Archives as follows:
The passage discusses events in Ireland following the establishment of the Irish Free State, focusing on the political and financial maneuvers involving key figures like Michael Comyn, Maurice Twomey, Sean MacBride, and W. T. Cosgrave’s leadership from 1922 to 1932. It highlights the Statute of Westminster, which Michael Comyn believed could enable Ireland to achieve a republic peacefully, as he prepared a memorandum for “the Chief” (likely Éamon de Valera). Maurice Twomey noted that constitutional ideas developed from 1922 onward led to significant outcomes, possibly Document No. 1, a key republican proposal.
The narrative also details a legal battle over IRA funds frozen by the Free State government. These funds, lodged in the name of the narrator (possibly an IRA member), were known to a former quartermaster who defected to the Free State. In 1932, Sean MacBride, then a law student, and Michael Comyn, a senior counsel, successfully challenged the government in the High Court, recovering nearly £20,000. The money was handed to “the Movement” (the IRA), providing critical support during a financially strained period exacerbated by the Great Depression. The narrator emphasizes their personal financial sacrifice, refusing to take any funds for travel expenses, and receiving a receipt and a letter of thanks from MacBride.
Regarding Michael Collins, the text suggests that, had he been in the cabinet, he would not have secured “real control” for Ireland, implying his approach might have been less effective than Cosgrave’s in navigating the Free State’s early years. Cosgrave’s tenure is noted for achieving a “limited number of” goals, though the text cuts off and doesn’t specify these.
If you need further analysis or specific details (e.g., the Statute of Westminster’s impact or the IRA funds case), let me know!
Report: Tariffs could ‘dent’ VC interest in AI Source: Unsplash
Coming off a week of radical volatility, tech stocks have finally seemed to calm down a bit. Shortly after imposing a sweeping series of global tariffs, President Donald Trump pressed the ‘pause’ button, at least for the next 90 days, dropping global tariffs to a base rate of 10% (with the exception of China, against which the U.S. has imposed a 145% tariff). Then on Friday, Trump said that phones, computers and computer chips would be exempt from his “reciprical” tariffs, a cause — as tech bull Dan Ives pointed out — for celebration.
The Trump Administration, however, has warned that a separate round of tariffs — specific, this time, to the semiconductor industry — are on the way. Earlier in April, the U.S. Commerce Department “initiated an investigation to determine the effects on the national security of imports of semiconductors,” according to a document, laying the groundwork for a tariff.
What happened: The uncertainty is already getting to venture capital investors, according to a recent PitchBook report. PitchBook estimates that there were a total of around 4,000 VC deals in the first quarter of 2025, roughly on par with last year’s numbers. AI, according to PitchBook, is the exception to this “otherwise sluggish dealmaking environment” — Big Tech companies have not pulled back spending on AI, and significant deals (like OpenAI’s $40 billion round) continue to be signed.
However, “while demand for AI remains strong, the impact of new tariffs on chip supply chains could dent VC appetite for these investments should companies struggle with pricing increases.”And despite all the ongoing AI popularity and excitement, cost remains a massive challenge.
Investment returns for end users and investors alike remain roughly nonexistent, considering the enormous levels of cash burn required to train and operate AI models, alongside their ongoing problems with security and reliability. So far, many top model developers have been subsidizing the true cost of use with their constant influx of VC dollars;but OpenAI and Anthropic both have recently opened up more expensive tiers (ranging from $100 to $200 per month), even as open-weights providers like DeepSeek continue to offer equivalent performance at radically reduced prices.
More broadly, PitchBook wrote that “the recent tariff announcement has significantly impacted VC activity and IPO plans.” Investors are subsequently adopting a “wait-and-see approach until clarity and stability return.”
All these business headwinds — lack of tariff clarity, market volatility, cost containment, negative consumer sentiment, etc. — “pressure startups’ ability to meet investors’ growth expectations,” which “could adversely impact the exit environment, keeping a lid on dealmaking activity,” according to the report.
Discover the profound wisdom behind why nice people often end up alone in this captivating 27-minute speech. Delivered with unmatched eloquence and depth, this speech explores the paradox of kindness and solitude, offering insights into the strength, resilience, and power hidden within those who walk the path of gentleness. It’s a heartfelt journey that sheds light on the sacrifices and rewards of being truly kind, while empowering you to embrace your authenticity in a world that doesn’t always understand it. Whether you’re a kind soul seeking validation or someone wanting to understand the quiet strength of nice people, this speech will leave you inspired, introspective, and deeply moved.
🌟 Reasons to Listen to This Speech It uncovers the hidden strength in solitude and kindness. It inspires you to embrace authenticity without fear of judgment. It provides valuable life lessons for self-awareness and resilience. It sheds light on the societal misunderstanding of kind people. It offers empowering perspectives for anyone who feels unappreciated. Delivered with eloquence and depth, it’s a must-listen for personal growth.
Timestamps 0:00 – Introduction 🌟 3:45 – The Weight of Kindness 🤝 7:50 – The Fear of Conflict 🛡️ 11:35 – Authenticity Misunderstood 💡 15:20 – Selective Connection 💬 19:05 – Emotional Vulnerability ❤️ 23:10 – Inner Strength Through Solitude 🌌 26:00 – Conclusion and Thank You 🙏
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Source: Unsplash
