The Museum has recently acquired by donation from Mr. John Stafford, original documents relating to the Court Martial in Dungarvan, of a Private Thomas Ward of the Royal Irish Hussars who was slaughtered in the town “in aid of the Civil Power” in October 1846.This was the period during the Great Famine in which Food riots occurred resulting in death and injury among the rioters.
Private Ward, however, was not court-martialled for any conduct during the riots, but for being drunk on duty, along with three other troopers.
A more detailed account of the riots is contained in the Waterford County Museum Society publication “Desperate Haven” an account of theoperator of the Work House in Dungarvan.
John also donated a lace neck choker and a skirt clip.
We are very grateful to him for these donations, which were presented to Mr.Jim Shine of Waterford County Museum.