Maurice de Prendergast
12th Century
Maurice de Prendergast is believed to be the
earliest progenitor of the Prendergast family in Ireland.
Maurice arrived in Ireland in 1169, one of the
first settlers in the train of the Earl of Strongbow. He had sailed with 200 soldiers from his family home in Pembroke,
Wales, where his family had settled after the Norman Conquest of 1066.
Maurice and his son Philip and grandson
Gerald acquired extensive lands in Wexford, Cork, Limerick and Mayo, most of which duly passed via Geralds
daughters to other men. On most of these lands, early branches of the family settled, who must have been relatives of the
above mentioned lords. These were the ancestors of the later Prendergasts of Mayo and Wexford, while those of West Limerick
exchanged their lands there for others in South Tipperary, and were the ancestors of the Prendergasts of that county.
For a complete breakdown of the life story of Maurice de Prendergast and his
Norman ancestors, visit Maurie Prendergast's Prendergast Origins page.
However, there is a bit of a gap between Maurice's sons and Calum's and Jamie's
earliest, more recent Prendergast ancestor!
Thomas Prendergast
1??? - 18??
Thomas Prendergast was Calum's and Jamie's great great great great
grandfather.
All that is known of Thomas is that in Griffith's Valuation of Ireland in 1851, he
is listed as a farmer at Killonerry in County Tipperary, just outside of Carrick-on-Suir. The annual valuation of the
land was £23 and 10 shillings, whilst the buildings were rented annually at £3 and 6d. The owner of the land was Robert Walsh,
Esq.
From Doreen Powers, a distant cousin of Calum's grandmother
Mary Pauline Prendergast, it has since been discovered that Thomas married a lady by the name of Brigid
O' Donnell, daughter of farmer Michael O' Donnell, and his wife, Mrs Mangan, who resided in nearby Whitechurch, County Kilkenny.
The next available record that we can learn about the Prendergasts in this small
hamlet is the 1901 census, where there are two branches of the family, headed by Thomas and Patrick
Prendergast, who are now known to have been brothers.
CHILDREN of THOMAS PRENDERGAST and BRIGID O' DONNELL:
Patrick Prendergast
b: 1858 d: after 1911
Patrick was born in about 1858 in County Kilkenny,
at the family farm of Killonerry. He married a lady called Annie Hogan, and had at least five
children - Thomas, Bridget, Michael, Ellen and
Patrick.
Patrick's wife Annie is not listed in the 1911 census,
having died shortly after the 1901 census. Patrick's age is given as 53 and he is noted as a farmer and widower, from County
Kilkenny. He was unable to speak in Irish. In addition to his family there were two servants, Johanna Flynn, aged 50, and
Martin Flynn, aged 22, both from County Waterford.
Patrick remarried, giving the stepmother control
of his children and of Killonerry House. The name of his second wife is as yet unknown. According to Patrick's granddaughter
Ann Vreeland (nee Prendergast), her father Michael never had much to say about his stepmother,
who was apparently not the warmest of people.
CHILDREN of PATRICK PRENDERGAST and ANNIE HOGAN:
Thomas Prendergast
b: 1894
Thomas was born at the family farm of Killonerry, in the parish of Whitechurch,
County Kilkenny, Ireland, in approximately 1894. In the 1911 census he was noted as a farmer's son, Roman Catholic, unmarried,
and unable to speak in Gaelic.
Thomas later joined the Third Tipperary Brigade of the Irish Republican Army
and fought during the War of Independence (see below).
Following on from this came Partition, and the Irish civil war, and again, Thomas
played his part. The following extraordinary article from July 20th 1934 relates Thomas involvement in what became known as
the Battle of Carrick, a three day battle between a couple of hundred republicans and the Free State Army:
FIGHT AT KILONERY RECALLED
Thomas Prendergast, Kilonery House, near Carrick-on-Suir,
was applicant in a claim for £107 17s 3d. for damage done to his house and property during a big engagement between the Free
State troops and the forces against them in July or August, 1922.
Mr. Budd B.L. (instructed by Mr. Power, solr., Carrick-on-Suir),
for the applicant.
Dr. Crotty said he understood that the case was not
being heard until the following day. He had an official of the Board of Works coming from Waterford to give evidence, and
he was not prepared to close his case that day.
Mr. Budd submitted a map of the scene of the occurrence
and said the Free State troops came out from Waterford and were operating on the slopes at the back of Carrick-on-Suir.
Applicant said that he was an active sympathiser with
the I.R.A. and then his sympathies went to those who opposed the Free State forces after the Treaty. He was actually out driving
for them. He was advised by his solicitors not to apply for compensation under the 1923 Act. He was not at home in July or
August. He was there some time previous to July and the damage for which he now claimed compensation was not then done. The
Irregular troops were encamped at a wood by a tributary of the Suir near his house. Col. Prout and the Free State troops came
up from Waterford and there was a three days battle during which the Free State troops occupied the house. Applicant was arrested
on the day they arrived and kept in an outhouse. He found all this damage when he came back. He was claiming for repairs to
the floor, joists, windows, skirting, plastering etc. Applicant had got an estimate for repairs from a Carrick-on-Suir firm.
he had deducted 60 per cent from the estimate for joinery because he admitted the woodwork in the house was old at the time.
In the case of the plastering he had deducted 50 per cent. There were also certain articles taken away by the troops - an
overcoat, suits of clothes and pairs of boots. He had paid £10 for the two suits of clothes and regarded them being worth
half price at the time they were taken. He was also claiming halfprice in respect of some shirts. He was claiming £3 for a
mahogany dining table, and he was also claiming for a mahogany washstand, four mahogany chairs, mattresses, covers, quilts.
Practically all the delph and china in the house was broken. He claimed £5 for this item, as well as £1 10s. for mechanic's
tools. Other articles taken included two razors and three pairs of lace curtains out of which the troops made stockings
(laughter).
Cross-examined by Dr. Crotty applicant said he had
no direct evidence that these things were taken away. They were there on a certain date and they were not there afterwards.
Dr. Crotty - What did the Free State troops want with
a mahogany table?
Applicant - As far as I know they were scarce of material.
They took it for burning? - Yes.
Thomas Prendergast, uncle of the applicant, said he
lived near Kilonery House, and saw the troops breaking out the windows in July or August, 1922. The various articles for which
applicant claimed compensation were in the house before the Free State troops occupied it. He saw the house afterwards and
it was a teetotal wreck. "In fact," said witness, "myself was worth it."
Mr. Budd - You were a total wreck too?
Witness - They killed all my cattle.
Did you get compensation? - I did.
Dr. Crotty - Did you know what was in your nephew's
house?
Witness - I did not exactly know. I knew there was
furniture in the house.
Continuing, witness said the house was not as good
as ever it was. There was still traces of the damage remaining. The floors in some of the rooms had not yet been repaired.
Thomas Brown, mason, said he did some repair work
in applicant's house prior to the damage in respect of which the claim was made. Having regard to its age, the house was then
in good condition.
Pierce Nolan (Messrs Nolan and Sons, building contractors,
Carrick-on-Suir), said he had made an estimate with regard to damage done to the house. The floors were in good repair
before the place was occupied by the troops. Dances had been held there previously. There was heavy rain at the time and he
understood the troops pulled up the boards to light a fire at which to dry their clothes.
Dr. Crotty - Your estimate for repairs is a speculative
one?
Witness - No: it is based on what I saw.
Dr. Crotty then asked that the remainder of the case
be held over until the following day for the attendance of his witness.
Arthur Walsh, Board of Works, Waterford, said he saw
applicant's house and went through it. It was a large substantial farmhouse. Nothing had been done to repair it. The
floors were broken and the ceilings blackened. He did not know how much of the present damage was attributable to what happened
in the troubled times. The house was practically empty and there was no furniture in it. His estimate for repairs was £56
17s 6d.
Mr. Budd said that was only £4 more than their estimate.
The house was a mansion with stone steps leading up to it, and not a farm-house.
The Judge said the applicant's estimate for the damage
done to the house and the goods destroyed was a reasonable one. he would report for £102. £3 expenses were allowed.
It should be noted that Pierce Nolan, the witness
building contractor, was in fact the uncle (by marriage) of Paddy Giles, Calum's and Jamie's grandfather.
It is likely that this Thomas is the Thomas recorded at Killonerry in the
1940 Electoral Register (as opposed to his cousin of the same name).
Bridget Prendergast
b: 1898
Bridget was born at the family farm at Killonerry, in the parish of Whitechurch,
County Kilkenny, Ireland, in approximately 1898. The 1911 census noted that she could read and write, but could not speak
in Gaelic.
Michael Francis Prendergast
b: 26/10/1898
Michael was born on October 26th 1898 at the family farm at Killonerry, in the
parish of Whitechurch, County Kilkenny, Ireland. On his birth certificate, his father, the informant to the registrar in Carrick-on-Suir
on November 4th, was noted as a farmer (1898/CARRICK-ON-SUIR/Q4//4/455).
Michael is noted as living at the farm in Killonerry in both the
1901 and 1911 censuses, and would no doubt have spent his youth preoccupied with school studies and day to day farm work. He could read and write, according to the 1911 census, where he was noted as
a scholar, but he had no Gaelic.
|
| Michael (middle) with the IRA Third Tipperary Brigade |
Michael's daughter Ann Vreeland contacted us in October 2005
to provide further details on her father, for which we are extremely grateful. During the War of Independence, also known
as the Anglo-Irish War, Michael joined the Third Tipperary Brigade of the rebel Irish Republican Army, fighting against the
British State for a free Ireland based on republican principles. From the book Carrick-on-Suir and its People by
Patrick C. Power (1975), it would seem most likely that Michael was a member of the 8th Battalion, which included
the following companies: Carrick, Faugheen, Grangemockler, Kilcash, Kilsheelan, Ballyneale, Windgap, Rathgormack, Clonea-Power,
Mothel, Killonerry and Piltown.
By 1920 there were about 100 members of the British army based in Carrick-on-Suir,
alongside 30 members of the RIC and members of the Black and Tans. As the IRA's guerilla campiagn for independence escalated,
many police stations and barracks were abandoned by the British, and their premises burned by the republicans to prevent reoccupation.
On November 20th, undercover agents were assassinated by the IRA in Dublin, prompting the British army to retaliate by shooting
unarmed civilians at a Gaelic football match at Croke Park. The result was a massive escalation of the IRA campaign - and
Killonerry was right in the middle of it. From Patrick Power's book:
The year 1921 began with an attack by the Killonerry
Company on a mixed force of police and military in Cregg - 20 men in all. The fifteen badly-armed attackers kept up the action
until nightfall when the government forces retired with four wounded. They left some weapons behind which were eagerly seized.
The same company attacked a much larger force next day near Tibroughney and a long fight ensued in which the attackers were
nearly surrounded. With nightfall the British retired byt next day they made a reconaissance in force which was halted by
a trenched roadway. here they once more attacked and one man killed.
It is not known whether Michael or his brothers were involved in this incident,
but it would seem that they were connected in some way. By 1921, a treaty was
proposed by the British that would divide the island of Ireland into two states, the northern six Protestant majority counties
of Antrim, Down, Armagh, Fermanagh, Tyrone and Londonderry forming Northern Ireland, and the 26 majority Catholic counties
of the south becoming the Irish Free State. The Treaty vote split the Irish Catholic voters into two camps, pro-Treaty and
against the Treaty, with the pro-Treaty faction winning. The British withdrew from the 26 southern counties, now the Irish
Free State, a country that had Dominion Status within the British Commonwealth. But many members of the IRA, who had
voted against partition, refused to accept the Treaty and saw the new Free Staters as traitors to the Republican cause. The
result was the declaration of civil war between the two opposing Treaty parties, with the Free Staters finally winning the
war against the 'Irregulars'.
Michael's daughter Ann knows very little of her father's activities as a
member of the IRA, mainly because he remained so secretive about his activities. It is believed that he may have been a member
of an IRA flying column known as the Galtee Mountain Boys, though this is as yet unconfirmed. At one stage Michael and other
volunteers are known to have buried some rifles in Tipperary, and to his dying day he refused to say where they were located.
It is also not known if he was involved in the Battle of Carrick-on-Suir, and the warfare at Killonerry (see above),
but it seems incredibly likely. Following the Irregulars' defeat, Michael went on the run in Ireland, and was eventually forced
to flee the country.
|
| Michael's wedding to Ellen Whelan in 1944 |
Michael travelled to Canada, and from there to the United States
of America, where he settled in New York. On June 15th 1944, he married Ellen Margaret Whelan in the
Church of St. Elizabeth, New York City. Ellen was a native of Cahir in Tipperary, and had previously been taken to the
States by her aunt, Nellie Sullivan. The witnesses to the wedding were Denis Whelan
and Marcella Kreson. The couple settled and had a family of three children.
In 1978, thirty years after the Irish Free State had finally thrown off
its dominion status to become a republic, Michael and Ellen decided to retire back to their native land, settling
back in Ellen's home town of Cahir.
Michael finally passed away on January 26th 1987, and was buried
in Cahir, outside the church across from Cahir Castle. Ellen was also buried in the same churchyard.
CHILDREN of MICHAEL PRENDERGAST and ELLEN WHELAN:
Michael Prendergast
b: 19??
Michael was born in the United States. He joined
the US Navy, and when he left the navy decided not to return to the States. He worked around the world, and took his
first visit to Ireland in 1978, where after meeting many family members and falling in love with the country, decided to buy a
piece of property up a mountain road near Clonmel, where he built a house which he named Killonery House II. He
still lives in Clonmel today.
Dennis Prendergast
b: 19?? d: 1989
Dennis had a history of heart problems. After his death in the United States,
his sister Ann took his body to the Republic of Ireland and buried him alongside their parents in Cahir, County Tipperary.
Ann Prendergast
b: 19??
Ann was born in the United States, and still lives in Rutland, Vermont.
A huge thanks to Ann for providing so much information on her branch of
the Prendergast family. Ann can be contacted at the following e-mail address: prende@myway.com
Ellen Prendergast
b: 1901
Ellen was born at the family farm at Killonerry, in the parish of Whitechurch,
County Kilkenny, Ireland, in approximately 1901. In the 1911 census she was a 10 year old scholar, could read and write, but
had no Irish.
Patrick Prendergast
b: 1906
Patrick was born at the family farm at Killonerry, in the parish of Whitechurch,
County Kilkenny, Ireland, in approximately 1906. In the 1911 census he was a 5 year old scholar, could read and write,
but had no Irish.
Thomas Prendergast
b: 1860
Calum's and Jamie's great great grandfather
- see below.
Thomas Prendergast
1860 - 23/5/1936
Thomas
Prendergast was Calum's and Jamie's great great grandfather.
|
| Killonerry farmhouse |
Thomas was born in approximately 1860 in Killonerry, County Kilkenny.
He married Mary O' Shea in approximately 1885-6, and the couple settled in the
Prendergast family farm at Killonerry, Co. Kilkenny, Ireland, where they raised their family.
In the 1901 census, the couple are recorded at Killonerry with their children,
Thomas, Daniel, Bridget, Paul, Alice
and Mary, as well as a lodger, called Bridget Houlahan.
In the 1911 census, the whole family are again located at Killonerry. Thomas
was 50, a farmer, and noted as able to read and write, and as a Roman Catholic, unable to speak in Gaelic. With him were six
children, but the record states that they had had a further two children no longer alive. Also in the farm was 30 year old
servant Margaret Hearn, from Kilkenny, able to speak in English and Gaelic.
Thomas died on Saturday 23rd May 1936, and it is believed that he was interred
in Piltown Cemetery. The Munster Express of May 29th carried a short notice
and tribute to him on his death (p.1):
DEATH OF MR. THOMAS PRENDERGAST, CARRICK-ON-SUIR
The death occurred on Saturday of Mr. Thomas Prendergast, Killonerry, Carrick-on-Suir.
Deceased was one of the best-known and most respected farmers in the district and was very popular. His home was the centre
of much activity during the Anglo-Irish war in which himself and his sons and daughters took an active part.
There was a very large attendance at the funeral to Piltown, where interment
took place after Requiem Mass. Deceased was brother of Mr. P. Prendergast, Kilonerry, and father of Messrs. Daniel, Thomas
and Paul Prendergast, and of Misses B. and M. Prendergast, and Mrs. Dee, Kilonerry.
Spoken to in August 2004, Thomas' granddaughter Winnifred
recalled that Thomas was "a fine man with a bit of a temper"!
CHILDREN of THOMAS PRENDERGAST and MARY
O' SHEA:
Unknown Prendergast
b: 18??
This unknown child was deceased by the time of the 1911 census, which clearly
shows that Thomas and Mary had had eight children, with only six still alive by then.
Unknown Prendergast
b: 18??
This unknown child was deceased by the time of the 1911 census, which clearly
shows that Thomas and Mary had had eight children, with only six still alive by then.
Thomas Prendergast
b: 1892 d: 19??
Thomas was Daniel's twin brother, and was born in Kilkenny in approximately 1891
or 1892. He is recorded with the family at Killonerry in both the the 1901 and 1911 censsues, but could not speak in Gaelic.
In 1911 he was a farmer's son by occupation.
Daniel Prendergast
b: before 1897 d: 25/12/1972
Daniel was Thomas' twin brother, and was born in Kilkenny in approximately 1891
or 1892. He is recorded with the family at Killonerry in both the the 1901 and 1911 censues, but could not speak in Gaelic.
In 1911 he was a farmer's son by occupation.
|
| Daniel's grave in Piltown |
Daniel married Ellen Angela O'
Dwyer, daughter of John O' Dwyer, and the couple settled at the farm in Killonerry. An article
from the Munster Express of February 11th 1949 (p.7) gives some more on Ellen's background, through the death notice of her
sister:
DIED IN AMERICA
The death occurred at Greenwich Hospital, Conn., U.S.A.,
of Miss Kathleen O' Dwyer, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John O' Dwyer, Cappahayden, Callan. She is survived by her sisters,
Mrs. John Corr, Bawnlusk, Cuffesgrange, Mrs. Prendergast, Killonerry, and Nurse O' Dwyer, Tipperary.
In the 1940 Electoral register for the area,
Daniel is recorded at the farm with his wife, his father, and another Thomas Prendergast, either his twin brother or his only
son. After the death of his father, Daniel took over the running of the farm altogether.
Daniel's wife Ellen died on September 3rd 1966 at the farm in Killonerry,
and Daniel himself eventually passed away on December 25th 1972.
Both Daniel and Ellen were buried in Piltown Cemetery, and in subsequent
years were later joined by both Thomas and Aquin Josephine.
CHILDREN of DANIEL PRENDERGAST and ELLEN DWYER:
Thomas Prendergast
b: 19?? d: 14/4/1986
Thomas is buried in Piltown Cemetery, Piltown, County Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland.
It is believed that he had no children.
The following death notice for Tommy appeared in the Irish Independent (Tuesday,
21st April, 1986, p.21):
PRENDERGAST (Killonerry, Carrick-on-Suir)
- April 14, 1986, at the County and City Infirmary, Waterford, Thomas, son of the late Dan and Ellen Prendergast, deeply
regretted by his sorrowing sisters, relatives and friends. R.I.P. Remains will be removed to Piltown Church this (Tuesday)
evening leaving hospital at 7.30 o'c. Requiem Mass to-morrow (Wednesday) at 11 o'c. Interment in adjoining cemetery immediately
afterwards.
Mary Prendergast
b: 19?? d: Nov 2004
Mary died in England just two days before her sister Ursula back in Ireland.
Acquin Josephine Prendergast
b: 19?? d: 20/7/1995
Acquin is buried in Piltown Cemetery, Piltown, County Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland.
It is believed that Acquin had no children.
The following burial notice appeared in the Irish Independent on the
following day (Friday, July 21st 1995, p.31):
PRENDERGAST (Killonerry, Carrick-on-Suir) - July 20,
1995, at her residence, Acquin J. (Josephine), daughter of the late Daniel and Ellen, and sister of the late Tommy: deeply
regretted by her loving sisters Mary, Ursula, Winifred, and Angela, brother-in-law Michael Murphy, relatives and friends.
R.I.P. Remains will be removed from Walsh's Funeral Home, today (Friday) at 8.30 o'c, to Piltown Church. Requiem Mass tomorrow (Saturday)
at 12 o'c. Burial in adjoining cemetery immediately afterwards.
Ursula Prendergast
b: 19?? d: Nov 2004
On September 15th 1961, Ursula was noted in the Munster Express as having come
second in a competition for the growth of crimson Bramley apples (p.2). She was noted as Miss Ursula Prendergast, Kilonerry.
Ursula married at some stage after this to Michael Murphy.
Ursula eventually passed away just two days after her sister, Mary,
having suffered severe arthritis for many years. She is believed to have had no children.
Winnifred Prendergast
b: 19??
Winnifred, or 'Winnie' as she is more colloquially known, was born and raised
at Killonerry Farm, County Kilkenny, and is the second youngest of Daniel's children.
On August 16th 1960, Winnie attended the wedding of her cousin Mary Pauline
Prendergast and Paddy Giles, Calum's and Jamie's grandparents, at Piltown Church of Assumption, and also attended the subsequent wedding breakfast
at Clonmel.
In October 2004, Calum's and Jamie's father had a brief phone conversation with
Winnie at Killonerry farm, who was able to confirm the Prendergast family history stated here, as well as clear up the story
of when the original Prendergast farm was divided. Many thanks to Winnie for her help.
Angela Prendergast
b: 19?? d: 7/7/2008
Angela was the youngest of Daniel's children. She never married and passed away on July 7th 2008.
The RIP.ie website lists Angela' passing as follows:
The death has occurred of Angela PRENDERGAST of Kilonerry,
Piltown, Kilkenny.
Removal from Walsh's funeral home, Carrick-on-Suir, tomorrow,
Tuesday, evening at 8pm to The Church of the Assumption, Piltown. Requiem Mass on Wednesday morning at 11am. Burial immediately
afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
Date published: Monday, July 07, 2008
Date of death: Monday, July 07, 2008
Bridget Prendergast
b: 1894 d: after 1911
Bridget's niece, Mary Pauline Prendergast, recalls that her
aunt was known more colloquially as "Sis".
Bridget was born in approximately 1894, but unusually in County Waterford. In
the 1911 census it was noted that she could speak in both Gaelic and English, and she was single. No occupation was noted
for her.
Bridget married a gentleman called Paddy Halley, but it is not
yet known if they had any children.
Paul Prendergast
b: 1895 d: 1947
Calum's and Jamie's great grandfather - see below.
Alice Prendergast
b: 1898 d: 3/6/1967
Alice was born in the third quarter of 1898 at the family farm at Killonerry,
with her birth subsequently registered in Carrick-on-Suir (1898/CARRICK-ON-SUIR/Q3/4/459).
In the 1911 census for Killonerry it was noted that she could speak in both
Gaelic and English, and that she was single.
|
| Alice Prendergast's grave in Piltown |
At some stage prior to 1932, Alice married Martin Dee,
who was seven years older than her, and the son of Thomas and Mary Dee, of Tinvane,
Carrick-on-Suir. In 1932, Alice and Martin had a son, whom they named Thomas Dee. It is not yet known
if they had any further children.
In the 1940 Electoral Register for Carrick-on-Suir, both Alice and Martin are
recorded as still living at Tinvane.
Martin eventually died on July 2nd 1952, whilst Alice continued on until June
3rd 1967. Both were buried in Piltown Cemetery.
CHILDREN of ALICE PRENDERGAST and MARTIN DEE:
Thomas Dee
b: 1932 d: 16/10/2000
Thomas died on October 16th 2000 and was subsequently buried in Piltown Cemetery
alongside his mother and father. As well as the gravestone shown above, two further memorials were added to the grave top:
Tom
|
| Thomas Dee |
A smile for us all
A heart of gold
One of the best
This world could hold
From Billy, Jillian,
Darren and Wayne
In
Loving Memory of
Tom
Loving and kind in all of
his ways, upright and just to
the end of his days, sincere
and true in heart and mind
a beautiful memory
left behind
Mary 'Mollie' Prendergast
b: 1900 d: after 1911
Mary was known to her niece, Mary Pauline Prendergast,
as Aunt Mollie, and was born in approximately 1900. As a youngster, she apparently used to make butter at the farm at Killonerry.
In later years, Mollie emigrated to the United States, where she married
a gentleman by the surname of English, and together they raised a family there. The Munster Express of June
25th 1954 recorded a visit of Mollie back to Ireland from the States (p.12):
HOME ON HOLIDAY
Mrs. English, formerly Miss Mollie Prendergast,
of Killonerry, is on a visit to her family, after an absence of many years in the United States. She is staying with her sister,
Mrs. Alice Dee, Tinvane. She is a sister of Mr. Dan Prendergast, and an aunt of Thomas Dee.
It is known that Mollie has at least one granddaughter called Patricia
MacLeod, but her whereabouts are currently unknown.
MYSTERY NEWSPAPER ARTICLE:
The following newspaper article from the Munster Express (Friday,
July 22nd 1949, p.8) mentions another members of the Prendergast family from Killonerry, still to be placed, who very
nearly drowned in 1949:
Narrow Escape From Drowning
Whilst swimming in the River Suir at a place
locally known as the "Coal Yard", Tybroughney, a youth named P. Prendergast, Killonerry, had a narrow escape from downing
(sic) when he got into difficulties. The tide was fast ebbing at the time, and he was being carried away by a strong
under-current. Two companions, R. Dowley, son of Mr Louis Dowley, Tybroughney Castle, and Larry Walsh, Three Bridges, immediately
went to his assistance, and, with much difficulty, succeeded in bringing young Prendergast to the river bank, where he remained
for some time in a semi-conscious condition. Great credit is due to the rescuers for their prompt action, which saved the
life of the drowning man, who had gone down for the second time.
Paul Prendergast
1897 - Sep 1949
Paul was Calum's and Jamie's great grandfather.
Like his sister Bridget, Paul was not born at the family far of Killonerry, but in County Waterford, though it
is not yet known where or why. His birth took place in approximately 1895.
Paul grew up on the Prendergast family farm at
Killonerry, County Tipperary, Ireland. In both the 1901 and 1911 censuses Paul is recorded as living there with his parents,
brothers and sisters. In 1911 it is noted that he could speak both English and Gaelic.
When Paul was growing up, his best friend was his distant
cousin John O' Donnell, who lived in the adjoining farm in Killonerry.
With his older brother Daniel helping their father
to run the family farm, Paul took up work as a ploughman at Purcell's Farm, Killonerry, just up the road from his own home.
From a Munster Express death notice of Paul's father Thomas in 1936, it appears that Paul, along with his father and
brothers, was heavily involved on the republican side in the Anglo-Irish War, and with Killonerry at the heart of the Battle
of Carrick-on-Suir in 1922, quite possibly on the side of the Irregulars in the Irish civil war also.
Paul married Mary Murray in 1931 in Owning Roman Catholic Church, County Kilkenny. At the time of his wedding, he was listed as
living in Killonerry. The witnesses to the wedding were John Moore and Bridget Duggan. The
registrar was Nuala Bolger.
There is no listing for Paul in the Carrick-on-Suir Electoral Register in 1940,
but he did live close to the town, possibly in Piltown in adjoining County Kilkenny.
In September 1949, Paul finally died, the cause as yet unknown. When he died, he
left his most expensive personal item, his plough, to his only daughter, Pauline. The Munster Express carried an item on his
death on September 30th 1949 (p.8):
LATE MR. P. PRENDERGAST
The death took place recently at Kilonerry, of Mr. Paul
Prendergast, youngest son of the late Mr. Thomas Prendergast. His death removed from the neighbourhood a member of one of
the oldest Co. Kilkenny families. Deceased was extremely popular, and the very large attendance at the funeral and interment
testified to the esteem in which he was held.
CHILD of PAUL PRENDERGAST and MARY MURRAY:
Mary Pauline Prendergast
b: 16/4/1932
Calum's and Jamie's grandmother - see below.
Mary Pauline Prendergast
16/4/1932 -
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| Pauline and her granny, Ellen Murray (nee Gorman), late 1930s |
Pauline was born at home at Three Bridges, on
the outskirts of Piltown, Co. Kilkenny, on April 16th 1932.
As a child, Pauline remembers having to fetch
water from the river that flowed past the house. She even cycled to the river and returned to the house with a bucket filled
with water on each handlebar!
Pauline's mother was a cleaner and she remembers accompanying her as she went to work.
She also remembers that during the Second World War the family had to endure rationing, despite Ireland's neutrality during
the conflict. Her father died when she was fifteen and she was left a horse and plough in his will.
Pauline attended
the Presentation Convent School in Carrick-on-Suir, and from a young age took to the stage, where she became a regular performer
in Carrick for the next decade. The following story from the Munster Express names Pauline as one of the cast members in a
production that became the talk of the town:
The Munster Express Friday, May 6th 1949
"THE MESSAGE OF FATIMA"
Recent Performances at Presentation Convent, Carrick-on-Suir
The magnificent pageant of "The Message of Fatima",
originally billed for four performances, had to be continued for the remainder of the week, in order to satisfy the demands
of hundreds who were unable, through lack of space, to obtain even standing room on the first four nights. From every surrounding
district, and even from places as far away as Waterford and Wexford, people came in cars and on bicycles, literally in droves;
and each night the doors were besieged an hour before the curtain rose. Indeed, it was distressing to witness the disappointment
with which so many had to go away each night, unable to find a seat in the spacious hall - from which to view an unforgettable
representation of the miraculous appearance of Our Lady at the now world-famed Portuguese village. For this, in truth, was
no ordinary "stage show", no ephemeral tinsel and glitter performance. Rather was it something with an inspiration; something
imbued with a spiritual meaning and a sense of reverence which pervaded the auditorium from the opening hymn to the find vocal
number "The Church". And in the living and moving episodes which marked the narration of how Our Lady appeared to the three
priviliged children, the story of Fatima was brought home to the thronged audiences with such power and feeling
that many were openly and unashamedly in tears each night - tears of compassion, tears of deep emotion, at so moving a story.
Therein, far more than in the success of the performance
- great as that success undoubtedly was - lay the reward of the Sisters of the Presentation Order for their selfless
work in the training of the choral numbers, and for the exquisite taste displayed in the costuming of principals, speakers,
tableaux and choirs.
Possibly, the dominant feature of the entire production
was the manner in which the Apparition was presented. Clever lighting effects made Our Lady's appearance most realistic, seeming
to bring the Vision from a cloud-dimmed distance into full brilliance to finally fade out gradually, until nothing was visible
but the hills of the Cova. The same artistci conception was excellently maintained in the three beautifully presented tableaux;
and the realism of the various scenes added to the perfection of the acting of the little principal characters.
The part of Our Lady was taken impressively by Bernie
Cooney; that of the child Jesus in breath-taking realism by Mary Morrissey; and that of St. Joseph in restrained dignity by
Anna Connolly. The finely sustained, natural acting of Betty Carroll, Helen Sheehan and Maureen McGrath in the parts of the
three children: Lucia, Jacinta and Francisco, respectively, could not be bettered. Breda Morrissey and Maureen Halloran shared
the honours in the part of the Angel of Peace - a striking and very beautfiul part. In the parts of the children's mothers,
Mary Lacey and Monica Garey were most effective; Joan McGrath gave a robust rendering of the part of the Sub-Prefect, as did
Pauline Prendergast as Don Almelda. Marie Doherty as a neighbour; and Ursula Driscoll, Honor Morrissey and Anne
Keeffe acted convincingly as the neighbours' children.
The choir, so beautifully trained by the
nuns, was skilfully handled by Mrs J. Jacques, the talented organist at The Friary, whose artistry
is so well-known that praise is hardly necessary; yet her rendering of the sacred music,
the effectiveness of her conducting, and the musical throughness of her organ accompaniments cannot be allowed to pass without
a sincere compliment. last, but by no means least, must be mentioned the speakers. It was as though a single voice spoke the
sentences with a purity of diction which was a pleasure to hear.
The lighting, which added so much to the very effective
representation, was in the capable hands of Messrs. T. Morrissey and Burke; the make-up was in the charge of Messrs. T. Tobin
and J. Walsh, whose skill and experience in this difficult art are so well-known. The scenery, which made the task of effective
representation of the Vision, a possibility, was excellently executed by Mr. Dick Casey, as were the stage settings by
Messrs. Nolan and sons.
To all who assisted, to Miss Hurley, who had charge
of the booking, and to the stewards and back-stage workers, all of whom gave their services so unstintingly, the community
desire to express sincere thanks; as also to Very Rev. N. Canon Dunphy, P.P., and to Rev. E. J. Ryan and Rev. J. Harty, who
all gave their eloquent testimony to their appreciation of what was a truly memorable and impressive representation.
After her studies at school, pauline went on to
the local technical school to continue her studies, sitting her exams in 1953. At the age of 22, Pauline was awarded
a medal the following year for the highest score in the whole of the Republic of Ireland for an economic geography exam. It
is also believed that she came second in the whole country for her Irish language exam. The following article within the Munster
Express explains her success and the reaction of the headmaster:
The Munster Express Friday, January 29th 1954
p.9
School Function at Carrick-on-Suir
HIGHLY CREDITABLE SUCCESS
A new and highly creditable innovation to school life
was initiated at the local technical Schools, Carrick-on-Suir, when Holy Mass was celebrated in the Institute on Thursday
of last week by Very Rev. Canon O'Byrne, P.P., V.F., Chairman of the local sub-committee of Vocational Education. The Mass
was attended by members of the local Sub-Committee, staff, and pupils.
At the subsequent distribution of certificates and prizes,
Very Rev. Canon O'Byrne paid tribute to the excellence of the instruction imparted by the teachers; he paid spcecial tribute
to the harmony and co-operation existing between teachers and pupils. The excellence of the results in themselves bore testimony
to that unity of purpose existing. He extended sincere congratulations to the many recipients of certificates in the various
grades. He was very pleased to observe the remarkable successes achieved in Home Building subjects, Woodwork, Cookery, Needlework,
and Domestic Science. He extended special congratulations to Pauline Prendergast for the signal
honour she had achieved in securing First Place in Eire and Department's Cash Prize in Economic Geography (Advanced Stage).
This was a unique distinction. Proficiency in these subjects of Home Craft, Woodwork, Commerce, Trades, and General Education
will give the opportunity to future parents of leisurely occupation and essential material benefits.
Mr. D. O' Suilliobhain, headmaster, formally proposed
the vote of thanks to Very Rev. Canon O' Brien, for his attendance and patronage. He expressed his personal satisfaction of
the general results achieved in 1953. The results in themselves indicate the keen progressive interest of the pupils in subjects
of technical education. These results were the results of hard work and intensive preparation. One hundred and twelve certificates
were awarded, bearing testimony to the keenness of study in the various departments of the curriculum. He made special reference
to the signal honour achieved for the school by Pauline Prendergast in securing first place in
Eire in Economic Geography (Advanced Stage). The general results were highly satisfactory, and many of our pupils are now
enjoying highly lucrative and promising appointments. He felt assured that, in virtue of the continued successes achieved
at our Technical Schools, our Institute will continue to maintain an honoured place in the schedule of the Department's records
of success.
Subsequent to the presentation of prizes, the following
films were shown through the courtesy of the American Embassy: "Apprentice Train", "Diesel - the Modern Power", Bridging the
Golden Gate", "Hurricane Circuits", "Sand and Flame", and "Tuberculosis".
Asfter doing a secretarial course, Pauline then worked as a secretary until 1960 at a place believed
to have been called Walsh's. A keen singer, Pauline also became a member of the operatic society in Carrick-on-Suir,
where she met the man who was to become her future husband, Patrick Joseph Giles, better known as Paddy.
Pauline appeared in many productions in the town's Ormonde Hall, including, and the following
articles outline the performances as reported in the Munster Express. The first is from 1958:
The Munster Express, Friday January
24th 1958, p.12
Pantomime
The local Operatic Society's pantomime,
"Sinbad the Sailor", concluded a six nights' runs at the Castle Cinema on Friday night last. It was a most successful production
and and attracted record attendances. The producer, Mr. J. Moran, and the musical director, Mrs J. Shelly, are to be
congratulated. The following filled principal parts with distinction: J. McGettigan (Alibad), Pat Power (Ali Worse), Anne
Gough (Jasmina), Mrs Peg Power (Sinbad), Joe Foley (Sinbad Catfish), Dick Meany (Captain Horatio Andy), Mrs Bridget Hannon
(Fortune-teller), Pauline Prendergast (Herald), Paddy Finucane (King Nabucko), Junior Nolan (Prince
Hassan), Mossy Casey (Chief Wolf Fang), Tom O' Keeffe (Headman), Pat Drohan (Witchdoctor), Christy Butler (Gorilla), Nicholas
Dalton (Black Abdulla), and Breda Shortiss (Princess Lotus Blossom).
In 1960, Pauline went on to appear in an epic production of HMS Pinafore in the town,
with Paddy in tow! Her photograph also appeared in the paper, as did paddy's (see Giles page):
The Munster Express January 15th 1960
CARRICK PINAFORE CAPTIVATED
Delightful Production By Local Operatic Society
GUEST ARTISTS AND HOME TALENT EXCELLED
The people of Carrick-on-Suir may well feel proud of the prominent and
progressivepart which is being played in the cultural life of the township by the local Amateur Operatic Society. To the long
chain of previous successes, andother golden link was added this week, when, as their eighteenth production, they selected
Gilbert and Sullivan's ever-green and always welcome "H.M.S.Pinafore". And, in every phase of its delightful presentation,
it has captivated all who have derived such unalloyed pleasure from its staging in the Ormonde Hall, from its opening performance
last Sunday night. Nor have we any hesitation in prediciting that it will continue to do so until the curtain is made to ring
down on its final offering next Sunday night.
(There will be no production to-morrow (Saturday) night).
A departure from the pantomime, which was favoured for several years past,
the society made a particularly happy choice on this occasion, for they gave us a "Pianoforce" that was well-nigh perfect.
For the first time, too, they introduced two guest artistes, in the selection of which they exercised a soundness of discrenment
that paid handsome dividends in the intense warmth of the enthusiasm with which they were received each night by the packed
audience.
FINISHED ARTISTRY
One of these was Minica Condron, who has filled a number of leading roles
with the Dublin Grand Opera Society. As Josephine (the Captain's daughter), she was playing a part for which her vocal gifts
and histrionic attributes so well equip her. There was a finished artistry about her singing and her acting which left behind
memories that will linger long with those who heard, saw and applauded her with such spontaneous fervour and sustained approval.
RADIO FAVOURITE
The other guest principal, Michael Murphy, as Ralph Rackstraw (Able Seaman)
did not come quite as a stranger from his native Cobh. For quite some time past, he was featured on the Mitchelstown Creamery's
sponsored programmes from Radio Eireann, and in that respect, the reputation which he has won for himself as an excpetionally
fine tenor, had preceded him. But, how different it was now hearing him at much closer "range" and being regaled by him with
such a flawless and all-satisfying interpretation of the haunting arias which he sand with such consumate ease and impressive
abaility, thus adding a major contribution to the scintillating progress of this most acceptable Gilbert and Sullivan work.
Apart from these two, the remainder of the cast was recruited entirley
from local talent. And what an abundance of it there must be in Carrick! In the supporting roles, and in the choral work,
all these amateurs, without exception, rose to the big occasion in a manner that won the golden opinions of all.
THE LOCALS
As Sir Joseph Porter, K.C.B., Pat Power, in addition to infusing into his
part the essential ingredient of humour, spoke his lines with a clarity that was good to hear - and enjoy. The part of Captain
Corcoran was very ably sustained by "Junior" Nolan, always a favourite; while that ominous character,
Dick Deadeye, was very effectively portrayed by Eugene Nolan. Dick Meany and John Dalton proved themselves true sons
of the Navy; and who can forget the part of the part of the Midshipmite as undertaken so successfully by John Walsh as Tom
Tucker (and hornpipe specialist).
THE LADIES
And what of the ladies (God bless' em!). B. Hannon's Little Buttercup was
a delicious offering, as pleasing and fascinating as one could wish for. And then we had two other accomplished stage
personalities in Margaret O' Donoghue and B. O'Brien, who found themselves happily at home when they doubled in the role of
Hebe (Sir Joseph's Cousin).
THE CHORUS
Those who comprised the chorus covered themselves with glory throughout.
Indeed, in this department, Carrick can boast a collection of male and female voices which blends delightfully. This results
in a most appealing tonal quality and a harmonious ensemble of voices that is really good to hear. One got the impression
that behind the merit of their work, lay careful and competent training.
CONDUCTOR-PRODUCER
Under the baton of Mr. J. Moran - who was also responsible for the production
- the high standard set by the orchestra was in keeping with the all-round excellence of a memorable performance. As musical
director and pianiste, Mrs. J. Shelly filled her dual role with impeccable success.
Greatly admired by the audiences were the ingenuity of the prodcuer in
the manner in which he adapted the rather small stage to mee the demands of such a presentation; the brilliant lighting, which
helped to show up the attractive setting to best advantage, and the beautiful costumes and stage make-up, all of which absolutley
defied criticism.
On this latest triumph of the Carrick Amateur Operatic Society, heartiest
congratulations are extended. By every member of the Society, and particularly by the indefatigable President Rev. J. harty,
CC., whose great work in the cause of music is so well known, they were never more richly deserved.
THE CHORUS
Chorus of the First Lords, Sisters, Cousins and Aunts: Mmes. Hurly and
Murphy; Misses A. Power, E. Murphy, A. Doherty, M. Doherty and M. Fahey, B. O'Sullivan, P. Rainsford, P.
Prendergast, P. McGarry, M. Thompson, A. Hannon, A. Carroll, D. Carroll, P. Danagher, M. O'Halloran, I. Crowley, M.
O'Brien, F. Torpey, M. Coady.
Chorus of Seamen and Marines: T. Power, R. Meany, J.
Nolan, P. Drohan, B. Mulvaney, M. Nolan, D. Carroll, J. Dalton, B. Kavanagh, P. Giles, E. Nolan, T. O'Keefe, P. Finucane,
C. O'Driscoll, H. O'Driscoll, J. Drohan, J. Hurley, N. Treacey. J. Aylward.
THE ORCHESTRA
Conductor, Mr. J. Moran; First Violins, Mrs T. Parle and Mr. D. O' Callaghan;
cello, Messrs J. Power and V. Cleary; Trumpet, Mr. J. carroll; Clarinet, Mr. P. Coady; Horn, Mr. R. Lyons; Trombone, Mr. M.
Coady; Organ. Mr. M. Inglesby; Piano, Mrs J. Shelly.
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| The ladies of HMS Pinafore (God Bless 'Em!) - Pauline is 2nd from the left |
On 16th
August 1960, Pauline married Paddy. The following article appeared in the Munster Express, describing
the wedding:
GILES-PRENDERGAST
The marriage took
place with Nuptial Mass and Papal Blessing at the Church of the Assumption, Piltown last week of Mr.Patrick Giles, William
Street, Carrick-on-Suir and Miss Pauline Prendergast, Three Bridges, Carrick-on-Suir. The ceremony was performed by Rev.Fr.Phelan,
C.C. Mr John OBrien, was best man and the bride was attended by Miss Ann Nolan (cousin of the groom) and Miss Nan Quinn.
A
reception took place at the Ormonde Hotel, Clonmel, where many friends and relatives of the newly married couple were entertained.
During the ceremony, the bride was attired in a white ballet length frock, with matching headdress, and carried a bouquet
of red carnations. The bridesmaids wore lavender brocade ballet length frocks.
Both the bride and groom are extremely
popular figures in Carrick-on-Suir. The honeymoon is being spent in Dublin.
After their honeymoon, in fact spent in both Dublin
and on the Isle of Man, the couple set up home in Three Bridges, along with Pauline's mother and grandmother. The first of
their eleven children, Rosella was born the following year. In 1969 the family moved to a council house in Hillcrest Avenue,
Piltown, which they bought seven years later.
Pauline's husband Paddy died on 19th April 2001, and is sorely missed.
Pauline continues to live in Piltown, keeping the village tidy and working at the Credit Union, where she has worked for years,
and being the best grandmother on this side of the Irish Sea!!!
CHILDREN of PAULINE PRENDERGAST
and PATRICK GILES:
Rosella Marie Giles
Patrick Gerard Giles
Anita Josephine Giles
Lucy Helen Giles
Cecelia Mary Giles
Majella Angela Giles
Paul Henry Giles
Gerard Martin Giles
Claire Patricia Giles
Claire is Calum's and Jamie's mother - see Giles page.
Desmond John Giles
Shane Thomas Patrick Giles
Connecting to Calum and Jamie
Mary Pauline Prendergast married Patrick Joseph
Giles in 1960.
Daughter, Claire Patricia Giles, married Christopher Mark Paton in 2000.
Sons, Calum Graham
Paton and Jamie Christopher Paton.
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