The recent passing of Mr John Cullinane, a resident of Drumtrasna, Abbeyfeale, has prompted reflection on one of the most notable episodes of the land war in West Limerick. Mr Cullinane’s life intersected with a period of intense social upheaval, marked by resistance against eviction and the assertion of tenant rights.

In 1882, Mr Cullinane found himself embroiled in a pivotal moment of this struggle when he was sentenced to five years’ penal servitude for his involvement in an incident that reverberated throughout the region. The event in question centred around an attempt by police and bailiffs to execute writs of ejectment on the Guillamore tenantry. Mr Cullinane, along with others, confronted these authorities, leading to a confrontation that resulted in his imprisonment.

However, the trial itself was not devoid of drama. During the preliminary proceedings, a daring attempt at a rescue was thwarted by the intervention of the late Father Casey. Recognizing the futility and potential danger of engaging in conflict with the well-armed forces of law and order, Father Casey implored the assembled crowd to refrain from further escalation. His wise counsel averted a potentially disastrous clash between the people and the authorities.

The episode encapsulates the complex dynamics of power, resistance, and leadership that characterized the land war era in Ireland. Mr Cullinane’s defiance in the face of eviction orders symbolizes the determination of tenants to protect their homes and livelihoods against unjust land practices. Conversely, Father Casey’s intervention highlights the role of community leaders in tempering passions and advocating for non-violent means of protest.

The legacy of John Cullinane and the events of the land war era continue to resonate in the collective memory of West Limerick. They serve as reminders of the sacrifices made by individuals like Mr Cullinane in the pursuit of justice and dignity for Ireland’s rural populace. As the region mourns the passing of one of its own, it also pays homage to a chapter in its history that exemplifies the resilience and spirit of its people in the face of adversity.

Constabulary Gazette (Dublin) – Saturday 02 December 1916