The Execution of Jeremiah Grant. (part of ) (Portlaoise Labrary records)
1 o clock on the 13th August 1816 was the time appointed for Jeremiah Grant's execution.
The sheriff, hoping for a respite, humanly waited as long as the mandate for death would allow him. At 3 o clock, Grant sent for Thomas Parnell esq to talk and prepare for death.
Crowds poured into Maryborough, every window that had a view of the gallows was occupied and every roop-top also.
Grant stood before them with manly firmness and calm countenance, he bowed and smiled.
He called out " my friends, be silent" "Mr sheriff, such is the noise that people make, they cannot hear what I intend to say"
( a speech followed)
The board did not fall suddenly from under the feet of the convicts, but kept a standing position, so they slopped down, but though there was no shock, Grant died without struggle, seemingly without pain.
They hung for three quarters of an hour and his body was encased in a coffin and delivered to friends for interment.
Jeremiah Grant is buried in Hackets lane in Maryborough, now called Railway st. His grave is on the left hand side, inside the gate and is covered with stones.
The 'Robbers Well' (Tobar A Ghadaighe) called after Captain Grant, the robber, who was finally hanged in Maryborough in 1816, is on the New rd in Portlaoise. It is said to have curative properities in it's water.