As the fighting in Dublin became more intense in July 1922 the city centre became a burned out ruin again, as it did like in the wake of the Easter Rising. One man, who fought on the side of Partrick Pearse, during the Rising told reporters; “I do not know what you think…bit I think that the action of the men responsible for this ruin has been a crime against the nation. It has no parallel with Easter Week.” He was not the only one dismayed with the destruction, the Archbishop of Dublin, the Lord Mayor and Douglas Hyde all made a tour of O’Connell Street when the fighting died down.

Many people also came out to view the ruins, some from the safer location of the platform erected around Nelson’s pillar for the funerals of the fallen. A big crowd turned out to line O’Connell Street for the military funerals, which made their way to Glasnevin Cemetery. “The dirge of pipers’ band announced their approach, and as the gun-carriage and five hearses moved past, the head were uncovered and the people stood in silent tribute to the heroic dead.”

Sources

15 July 1922 – Freeman’s Journal – Dublin, Dublin, Republic of Ireland

15 July 1922 – Freeman’s Journal – Dublin, Dublin, Republic of Ireland