Limerick, Saturday – The city of Limerick experienced a generally quiet Bank Holiday today, with the streets adorned in Union Jacks displayed from windows, flagstaffs, and even temporarily improvised poles. The day saw the closure of banks, solicitors, and land agency offices in honour of the occasion, while the white ensign fluttered proudly atop the tower of St. Mary’s Cathedral. Harbour vessels joined in the festive spirit, decked out in colourful bunting.
The Protestant Young Men’s Association took the opportunity to tastefully decorate their premises, featuring a prominent red-grounded inscription of “God Save the King” in eye-catching letters. The visit of the King was also acknowledged in Coleraine, where flags adorned the Town Hall and other residences in celebration.
However, the tranquillity of the Bank Holiday was marred by a disturbance in Mungret Street last night, as tensions escalated over the display of a flag at the lodging house owned by a man named Long. Five individuals entered the premises in an attempt to persuade Long to remove the flag, one of several displayed across the city throughout the day. Long, however, refused, leading to a physical altercation where he was allegedly knocked down, kicked, and the flag forcibly removed.
A crowd quickly gathered, and in the heat of the moment, stones were reportedly thrown at the police who intervened. Reacting to the escalating situation, some police officers drew their batons. Fortunately, an additional contingent of Constabulary swiftly arrived, restoring order and dispersing the crowd, which reportedly leaned in favour of Long.
Despite the intensity of the situation, no arrests were made immediately. The incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding the display of flags in the city and the potential for such symbols to ignite local tensions. As Limerick navigates through these contentious moments, the city’s residents await further developments in the aftermath of this unexpected clash on what was intended to be a peaceful Bank Holiday celebration.
Dublin Daily Express – Monday 10 July 1911
