[In 1898, a committee was established to commemorate the centenary of the 1798 United Irishmen Rebellion. Owing to the fractious nature of Irish nationalism at the time (Parnellites vs. Anti-Parnellites), these committees were seen as a way of mending past differences and led to a surge in nationalist feeling across the country.]

THE '98 CENTENARY IN BALLINASLOE

The usual meeting of the above branch was held on Sunday night, 27th March, at the Working Men's Hall at 8.30 p.m.

Mr Thos Byrne, TC, PLG (President) occupied the chair, and there were also present: Messrs D. Tierney, TC, T. F. Meagher, TC, J. Donovan, (President Working Men's Club); T. J. Manning, P. Tierney, E. J. Kelly, J. J. Finegan, J. Kilmarton, J. Dolan, P. Bannerton (Treas); and J. Shine (Joint Hon. Sec.).

Two seperate communications were read from Paul Creegan, Secretary, '98 Committee, City Hall, Dublin.

The following new members were elected: Mr L. Conroy, chairman Town Commissioners; D. Glynn, Kilconnell, E. J. Duffey, Kidlawn, D. Downey, TC, Ballinasloe; P. Tierney, do; P. McDOnnell.

The following were added to the list of names to the executive committee:— Messrs Dr Duffey, E. J. Kelly, J. Glynn, T. Hibbets, E. J. Duffey, T. F. Meagher, TC, N. O'Carroll, L. Conroy, CTC.

On the motion of Mr. Donovan the consideration of the band was left over for next meeting, 3rd April.

Mr Kelly proposed that the meetings in future be at ? o'clock so as to suit the members from the outside districts, and that the Secretaries get posters printed to the effect. Mr Meagher seconded.

The Treasurer taking over the usual fees or subscriptions, the meeting terminated.

Source: 2 April 1898