1923 – Deadly attack

A desperate conflict took place between Irregulars and National troops stationed at Headford on Sunday morning when an attack was opened by about thirty Irregulars at 5.10 o’clock, a.m., in broad daylight.

The dead are John Higgins, Ballytrasna, Tuam, who was killed during the fight; Company Sergt.-Major M. McCarthy and Volunteer Lyons of National forces died as the result of serious wounds received; four or five volunteers, including Harry Burke of Tuam, received slight wounds.

The number of Irregulars wounded cannot be exactly accounted for as it is stated they were carried away by their comrades, and streaks of blood are visible in many places along the line of retreat. At least one wounded man was seen to be taken away by his comrades.

The plan of attack seemed to be the blowing in of the front of the barrack, which is the building formerly known as the National Bank. A position was taken up by six Irregulars in the shop of Mr. Thady McHugh opposite the barracks across the road.

The garrison was called on to surrender or come out and fight, and evidently the Irregulars thought there would be immediate surrender.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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