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Ireland (Historical Counties) => Ireland => Cork => Topic started by: dickydoremouse on Sunday 01 September 13 16:31 BST (UK)

Title: Irish War of Independence or Civil War Records
Post by: dickydoremouse on Sunday 01 September 13 16:31 BST (UK)
I have a bronze service medal (with bar) issued to the father of my now deceased godfather and bequeathed to me on his death. Both men were born and raised in Cork city and the medal as I understand it was given to persons who took an active part in military operations against the British between 1st April 1920 and 11th July 1921. The reverse of the medal shows a name and a number.
I am trying to discover more about my godfather's father's involvement in the Civil War. I have a vague idea that he was a driver or mechanic, although his profession was that of a jeweller and watch-maker.
Is there any resource (particularly online) where I can discover more about his activities and whether he was pro- or anti- treaty after 1921?
I shall be most obliged for any assistance.
Title: Re: Irish War of Independence or Civil War Records
Post by: ainmchleite on Sunday 01 September 13 21:07 BST (UK)
You should check to see if they are named in the files of the Bureau of Military History, especially the witness statements at

http://www.bureauofmilitaryhistory.ie/bmhsearch/browse.jsp

There are some fascinating stories in there,

Happy searching,

Ainmchleite
Title: Re: Irish War of Independence or Civil War Records
Post by: conahy calling on Monday 02 September 13 08:24 BST (UK)
 May be of interest to you      www.irishwarmemorials.ie
Title: Re: Irish War of Independence or Civil War Records
Post by: dickydoremouse on Monday 02 September 13 13:41 BST (UK)
My thanks to you both for your information. I have looked at these links but have drawn a blank regarding my subject. However, both links are very informative and most interesting. To have, for example, witnesses from the time actually recording facts of the moment is marvellous. 
Title: Re: Irish War of Independence or Civil War Records
Post by: dathai on Monday 02 September 13 15:56 BST (UK)
have you tried searching his name on the military census of 1922.

 Census.Militaryarchives.ie 1922
Title: Re: Irish War of Independence or Civil War Records
Post by: Sonas on Monday 02 September 13 19:57 BST (UK)
The Military Archives has pensions files so there should be a file there for him. I don't think any of these are online yet. You may have two problems: the first is that there is usually a lengthy waiting period for access and the second is that as far as I understand it, the Military Archives will usually only deal with a direct descendant. I've never dealt with them so someone else will have better advice on this. A number of local history books have been written about this period in Cork as well.