Yesterday, the burial ceremony was held in Limerick for Mrs. Kelly of Lower Gerald Griffin Street, who reached the remarkable age of 107 years. Mrs. Kelly maintained her mental faculties until her passing three days ago. Her longevity was a testament to her well-being and vitality throughout her life.
Mrs. Kelly, who lived from 1797 to 1904 in Limerick, Ireland, would have witnessed significant historical events and societal changes during her lifetime. Here are some notable events and developments that she may have experienced; Irish Rebellion of 1798: Mrs. Kelly would have been just a year old when the Irish Rebellion against British rule took place. While she may not have any direct memories of the rebellion, its aftermath and the prevailing political climate would have influenced her early years.
Act of Union 1800: In 1800, the Act of Union was passed, merging the Kingdom of Great Britain and the Kingdom of Ireland to form the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. This political change would have shaped the social and economic landscape of Ireland during her early childhood. The Great Famine (1845-1852): Mrs. Kelly would have experienced the devastating impact of the Great Famine, also known as the Irish Potato Famine. This period of widespread crop failure and starvation had a profound effect on Irish society and led to mass emigration, including the infamous “Coffin Ships” carrying Irish immigrants to North America.
She would have witnessed the Land League Movement: Mrs. Kelly would have witnessed the emergence of the Irish Land League in the late 19th century. This movement aimed to secure land reforms and protect the rights of tenant farmers, playing a significant role in the struggle for Irish independence and agrarian reform. Home Rule Movement: During Mrs. Kelly’s lifetime, the Home Rule movement gained momentum in Ireland. Home Rule advocates sought to establish a self-governing Irish parliament within the United Kingdom. While the Home Rule Bill was eventually passed in 1914, it was suspended due to the outbreak of World War I.
Industrialization and Urbanization: Limerick, like many other cities in Ireland, underwent significant industrial and urban development during the 19th century. Mrs. Kelly would have witnessed the growth of factories, the expansion of transportation networks, and the changing dynamics of urban life. Women’s Suffrage: Towards the end of Mrs. Kelly’s life, the women’s suffrage movement gained traction in Ireland. Women were fighting for the right to vote and actively participating in political and social causes. Although women’s suffrage was not achieved in Ireland until 1918, Mrs. Kelly may have witnessed the beginnings of this movement.
These are just a few highlights of the historical events and changes that Mrs. Kelly had lived through during her remarkable 107-year lifespan in Limerick, Ireland.
Manchester Courier – Tuesday 02 February 1904
