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Irish Constabulary/Royal Irish Constabulary
Ballycastle
County Antrim
​1833-1922
by Ross Olphert
 ​This piece of research sets out a potted history of policing in Ballycastle from 1830’s until partition. 
Its is generally a record of the men who served in the town, those who retired in the town and those 
identified who came from the town. It is not intended to chart all events pertaining to these men 
through their career but rather shows their connections to Ballycastle and to other residents.
I have also included the connections to the 1913-1923 revolutionary period concerning
Nationalism/Republicanism in the town. In a number of examples there are connections with men 
serving or retiring in the town that may be of interests to those who have studied the period.
This work is not definitive and where there are errors or available alternative information I am happy 
to hear from you. Research was based on RIC records and newspaper archives on Findmypast.com, 
PRONI Will and Valuation Revision records, 1901 and 1911 census returns and Jim Herlihy’s book 
‘Royal Irish Constabulary Officers.’ Some general research was carried out through internet searches.
Feel free to share 
Picture
​According to the property Valuation Revision records in 1864 the barracks were sited at 15 Anne 
Street Ballycastle, the building was to be taken over in 1877 by grocer and draper Nehemiah 
McCaughan and ultimately became McLister’s shop.

​The barracks then moved to 32 Castle Street from 1877 until 1893. This site no longer exists and the 
position is now the occupied by the Maxol petrol station. The site of barracks appears to then to 
have been 18 Market Street from 1893 which were later the RUC barracks.

Picture



​1833
Ordnance Survey memoirs from 1833 records that there were 6 constabulary based at Ballycastle. It 
is not apparent which ranks this was made up but certainly as Ballycastle was the headquarters of a 
district there would have been a Sub Inspector, Head Constable, Constable and a number of Sub 
Constables.
The contemporary press records in 1833 a Serjeant William McCormick of the Ballycastle 
constabulary. Online information posted by relatives researching the family show that he was 
married to Martha McClelland and came from Longford or Westmeath. His son James was born 
around 1830, and was married in 1866 to Mary Lowe at Moate.
1852
Sub Inspector Christopher Joseph De Gernon 
1852-9th July 1854

Christopher De Gernon was born in Middlesex 1816, although elsewhere it was mentioned that he 
was born in France of Irish parents. He joined the constabulary 2nd April 1839 and was posted to 
County Sligo. He then served Galway, back to Sligo, Cork, Dublin, the Reserve and then County 
Antrim around 1851/1852.
He remained in Ballycastle until 9th July 1854 when he joined the commissariat for war in Turkey. He 
then returned to the police 8th December 1855 and was stationed in Limerick. 1st May 1856 he was 
posted to Cork City where he stayed only a short time and was sent to King’s County 1st October 
1856. He finally served in County Kildare from 1st September 1857 and was commandant of Curragh 
Camp.
On 19th August 1860 Charles was made a Resident Magistrate. He died 25th January 1875 at Glenogra 
County Limerick. Christopher drowned in the Camogue River while riding home from a day’s hunting. 
It was noted that he was never married.

1858
Sub Inspector Thomas Rodwell
1st February 1858 – 1st July 1865 

Thomas Rodwell was born 1831 in Norfolk and may have been from Brancaster. He was the son of 
gentleman George Given. He joined the Irish Revenue Police in 1851 however transferred to the 
Constabulary on the disbandment of the Revenue in October 1857. 
17th May 1865 Thomas married Margaret Marion Given at St Patrick’s Church Coleraine. Margaret 
was the daughter of gentleman Daniel Given of Coleraine. He was then transferred to Bandon 
County Cork 1st July 1865, however prior to this on 15th April 1867 a daughter Isabella was born at 
North Main Street Bandon County Cork. 
Thomas was posted to Wexford 1st March 1885 and then Kilkenny 1st November 1887.
Thomas was pensioned 24th November 1891. He died 5th June 1913 at 8 Kenilworth Road, Rathgar, 
Dublin. His son George D’Urban Rodwell was to become a County Inspector in the RIC who served 
during WW1 as a senior officer.

1859

Head Constable Abraham Eakins 2499

Abraham Eakins was born County Cavan 1816. He joined the constabulary 22nd July 1837 on the 
recommendation of the Rev D Adams and was posted to County Donegal.
In November 1845 he was promoted to Constable. He was married 1847. From 1850 until 1856 
Abraham worked in the Burnfoot and Clonmany areas of Donegal. In 1856 he was moved to 
Ballintra.
Abraham was promoted to Head Constable 4th July 1859 and was posted to County Antrim from 1st
November.
He was pensioned 1st April 1868 and was presented with an inscribed watch and chain as well as an 
address from the people of Ballycastle. It was revealed that he was bound for Ramelton County 
Donegal. Abraham then found employment as the master of Milford Union Workhouse in Donegal. It 
is not clear when he took up the position, however the vacancy had been advertised from Octobe6 
1867.
In April 1892 it was recorded that Abraham was selling by auction licensed premises at the 
“Stewart’s Arms” hotel Ramelton. His address at the time was Bogwell Cottage, Ramelton. It is not 
clear what or where these licensed premises were.
On 9th November 1897 Abraham’s wife Sarah died at Ramelton aged 81.
At the time of the 1901 census Abraham was living at Church Street Ramelton. He was widowed and 
was living with his two daughters Martha and Jane and his son James. James and Jane were 
employed as shop asistants.
Abraham died 5th September 1906 at Ramelton County Donegal aged 89.

Constable Michael Brown 8009

Michael Brown was born 1824 County Cork and was the son of labourer John Brown. He joined the 
constabulary 9th May 1846 on the recommendation of the Reverend W Jackson. Michael had been 
employed as a shoemaker.
He was posted to County Limerick, the Reserve, then County Longford from 18th July 1848 where he 
became a mounted officer. He was married 8th February 1853 (although his service record states 27th
January 1853) to Mary Anne McKinly. Mary was the daughter of farmer George McKinly. Both 
Michael and Mary were resident in Killashee.
Michael was promoted to Constable 1st August 1857 and was transferred to the Depot 1st August 
1859. Michael was only at the Depot for a short time as he was moved to Ballycastle 25th September 
1859. He was still there in 1868 but transferred to Ballymoney. He was dismounted 20th November 
1874.
He was pensioned 1st November 1878 with his pension being claimed at Antrim. Michael then went 
to live at Randalstown and later worked as a water bailiff.
On 29th October 1891 Michael married widow Ellen Fletcher of Cairngranny just outside Antrim. 
Ellen was the daughter of carter James McFetridge.
Michael died 5th February 1898 at Ballymena. On that date he had travelled to Ballymena by train 
and arrived around 9.30 a.m. He then took another train to Kells where he had some business to
attend to. While in Connor he took a “weak turn” but regained enough strength to return to 
Ballymena. On arriving at the station he again felt unwell and called on Constable James Smith of 
High Street barracks in Ballymena, who was on the platform. Smith helped Michael to the other 
platform where he vomited. He again seemed to regain strength but fell on his back. He was lifted to 
the first calls gentleman’s waiting room but it was discovered that he was dead. His wife named as 
Ellen appeared at the inquest and stated that he was a sober man and had not tasted drink for thirty 
years.

April 1863 

Constable William McMullin 11,1768

William McMullin was born County Tyrone 1828 son of Charles McMullin. He joined the 
constabulary 9th December 1848 on the recommendation of E Sprosel J.P.
His father Charles appears to be Charles McMullin service number 676. Charles was a native of 
Tyrone and at the time of joining on 1st May 1829 was a widower with at least one son. He served in 
County Tyrone and was pensioned 1st October 1851. He may have died in the Omagh area in 1865.
Initially he was sent to the Reserve but was then posted to County Antrim. 1
st May 1856 William was 
promoted to Acting Constable. Then 1st March 1858 he was promoted to Constable.
On 29th October 1865 William McMullin married at Ballycastle Chapel Margaret McHenry daughter 
of Robert McHenry, publican, of Ballycastle. His service record stated that he was married 26th
September 1865. On 1st September 1866 son John McMullin was born at Anne Street Ballycastle.
William was transferred to County Londonderry 1st May 1868. He was then promoted to Head 
Constable 1st February 1872 and was in stationed at Maghera. On 7th August 1874 son Robert 
McMullin was born at Maghera. A few weeks later on 10th September 1874 William was fined 50 
shillings and warned.
William’s troubles did not end there. He was reduced in rank to Constable 25th September 1875. This 
was followed by a 40 shilling fine on 1st November 1875, and he was again reduced this time to Sub 
Constable 17th November 1877.
On 18th September 1878 daughter Mary McMullin was born at Castledawson where William was 
stationed. Another daughter Margaret was born 8th September 1883 at the townland of Tamniaran
at Castledawson. A further daughter Agnes Josephine McMullin was born 23rd March 1886 at 
Mullaghboy.
William was pensioned 1st August 1879. He initially claimed at Magherafelt.
At the time of the 1901 census William was living with his children and grandson William John at 
Garden Street Magherafelt. Son John McMullin was living at Vere Street in the Belfast docks where 
he operated a bar.
William John McMullin born 83 Templemore Street Belfast 11th November 1897. He was the son of 
John McMullin and Annie Hunter. John was a spirit grocer. John had married Annie 15th November 
1896 at St Matthew’s Chapel on the Lower Newtownards Road Belfast. Their wedding certificate 
stated that Annie was the daughter of James Hunter and implied that he was a former RIC man. Both 
Annie and John were living at 83 Templemore Street which was licensed premises in East Belfast.
On 24th October 1899 Annie McMullan died aged 25 of consumption. They were then living at 
another bar 1-3 Vere Street in the docks area of Belfast. Annie died at the Mater Hospital. On 3rd July 
1900 John remarried. On this occasion he married Mary McArdle daughter of farmer Bernard 
McArdle of Magherafelt. John and Mary were noted at Vere Street in the 1901 census but were gone 
by 1911. The Valuation records indicate they left prior to 1906. The property at Vere Street was 
owned by bewery McArdle, Moore & Co which may have been connected to Mary.
In 1904 William moved to Belfast. At the time of the 1911 census daughters Mary, Agnes and Maggie 
were living with him along with grandson William at Pim Street.
William died 19th April 1914 at 16 Pim Street Belfast. His daughter Maggie was present at the death. 
Oddly his death certificate records him as being an ex-Head Constable which was incorrect. The 
remainder of his pension was paid to his daughter Mary.
Charles McMullin 15,288 also a native of Tyrone, born 1832, and may have been a relative. He joined 
13th September 1851 and was also posted to County Antrim. Charles volunteered to serve in the 
Crimean war in the Lifeguards on 27th September 1852 according to his service record. There are no 
further records for him.
A record for military service for Charles McMullin, former Irish Constabulary man, indicates that he 
served for 21 years finishing as a sergeant in the 100 Regiment of Foot. The record states that he 
initially was a member of the Grenadier Guards and had pension worth four years and twelve days 
from the Constabulary. He was promoted to sergeant in 1862 but was reduced again to private after 
getting in trouble. He later was promoted to corporal but changed regiment in 1867 to 110 Regt of 
Foot where he remained until October 1872. He went then to live in Reading, England. In 1891 he 
was noted as living at 65 Waterloo Road, Reading, was married and had three children. In 1901 he 
was living at 21 Abbey Square, Reading.

1865 
Sub Inspector Arthur Pratt Winter Morton

1865-1st April 1867

Arthur Morton was born Le Havre France 2nd August 1844. His father Pierce was in the military. His 
mother was Louisa Somerville. He joined the constabulary as an officer cadet 27th January 1863 and 
was posted to County Cavan 26th October 1863.
He was then posted to County Antrim and was noted in local press in Ballycastle by the beginning of 
November 1865. On 19th December 1866 he married Eliza Rebecca McNeale daughter of solicitor 
Stephen Wilson McNeale of Ballycastle.
Arthur was then posted to Castleblayney County Monaghan 1st April 1867 followed shortly after by a 
move to Donegal 31st July 1867 on his own request. On 18th September 1867 son Pierce Somerville 
was born at The Quay Ballycastle. Arthur was stationed at Ramelton at this time.
On 1st May 1869 he was posted to Arklow County Wicklow. On 1st December 1870 Arthur was sent 
to County Clare. He died 31st August 1871 aged 28 at Kilrush County Clare.

1867
Sub Inspector Charles Andrews Carr

1st April 1867- July 1868

Charles Carr was born County Roscommon 1840. He was the son of Frederick Carr who had been a 
Chief Constable in the Baronial Police 1st October 1821 to 1st April 1824 and who had then went on 
to be ultimately a County Inspector retiring in 1866. Charles joined as a cadet 16th May 1859. He was 
first posted to County Meath 16th November 1859. He then served County Down from 1st July 1861, 
then County Roscommon 1st March 1863. He was then posted to the Reserve 1st September 1865.
1st April 1867 he was posted to Ballycastle as replacement for Arthur Morton. In August 1867 while 
walking at Giants Causeway Charles’ hat blew off. On going to retrieve it near the edge of the cliff 
the ground gave way causing him to fall 351 feet. He struck earth and rocks on the way down 
however was able to stand up immediately after. He then attended a pic-nic. He was found to have 
24 separate cuts and was able to walk a mile to the Causeway Hotel. He then rested for two or three 
days in bed.
Charles the returned to County Roscommon by at least July 1868 and was stationed at Frenchpark. 
He then served County Down (1869-1871), Donegal (1871-1875), Cork (1875-1889), Meath (1889), 
Dublin (1889-1896) and finished at Moville County Donegal (1896-1899).
18th March 1872 he married Margaret Henrietta McDermott daughter of Edward McDermott Esq. 
Both were resident at 23 Palmerston Place, Dublin however Margaret was from County Longford. 
He was pensioned 1st July 1899 and in 1901 was living at St Patrick’s Place, Cork with their three 
children 
Angustin born 1872/1873 Donegal
Florence born 1875/1876 Donegal
Charles Alfred Carr born 27th June 1877 Ballincollig Cork
Another daughter Margaret Henrietta Carr was born 23rd December 1876 Ballincollig Cork and died 
aged 17 5th April 1893 at Lucan County Dublin. Charles died 8th February 1917 and was buried with 
his daughter at Lucan.

1868

Head Constable George Lalor

1st April 1868-25th November 1869
​
George Lalor was born County Tipperary north 1830. He was the son of constabulary man Richard 
Lalor (according to his later wedding certificate). He joined the constabulary 16th September 1851 on 
the recommendation of Sub Inspector Mullin. George had been a tailor prior to joining.
He was posted to the Reserve 5th February 1852 and then County Antrim 9th May 1852. While there 
he was reduced in rank to 2nd sub constable 12th May 1852 but was promoted back up on 1st October 
1852. On 1st April 1859 he was promoted to acting constable and on 1st November 1859 he was 
promoted to constable.
On 21st December 1861 at St Anne’s Belfast he married Eliza Sweeney daughter of business man 
Michael Sweeney. Both George and Eliza were living in Belfast.
By 26th October 1865 George was living and working in Ballymena. He was based at the High Street 
barracks where his son George was born. By 23rd April 1867 son Richard was born at Henry Street, 
which suggests that George was then stationed at Harryville barracks.
George was promoted to Head Constable 7th October 1867 and was sent to Coleraine County 
Londonderry 26th October 1867. On 1st April 1868 George was transferred to Ballycastle. 
A year later on 23rd April 1869 daughter Elizabeth was born at the barracks at Anne Street. Sadly a 
few months later George died 25th November 1869 aged 39.

Sub Inspector EJ McDermott/Edward Joseph MacDermott

July 1868 – January 1869

Edward MacDermot was born around 22nd March 1846 in County Galway. He was the son of Sub 
Inspector Henry MacDermot and brother of County Inspector Henry Roderick MacDermot.
He transferred from Depot to Ballycastle July/August 1868. In January 1869 he was transferred to 
Ballinamore County Leitrim.
5th May 1873 while stationed at Clifden County Galway married Frances MacDermot daughter of JP 
Charles MacDermot of Coolavin. They appear to have been cousins. They were married at Craggah 
County Mayo. He later became a Resident Magistrate

1869

Sub Inspector Thomas Murphy

15th January 1869- Nov 1872

Thomas Murphy was born County Wexford 1843. He joined as a cadet 8th December 1866. He 
Initially was sent to Arva County Cavan 3rd June 1867. He was transferred to Ballycastle 15th January 
1869.
While at Ballycastle he received a favourable record for quelling a disturbance 26th October 1870. 
This appears to have related to an attack on a band from Coleraine who had been playing at the 
Ballycastle regatta. It was reported as a “party disturbance” and that Sub Inspector had been 
escorting the band to McDonnell’s hotel with a detail of police when they were attacked by a mob 
armed with sticks and stones. Several people were wounded. It was stated that further trouble was 
stopped due to the intervention of Mr William Woodside of Coleraine (a native of Ballycastle), local 
priest Rev Mr McAlister and the proprietors of the principal hotels, Mr McDonnell and Mr Lavery. 
Due to the incident anti-catholic feeling in Coleraine was high which resulted in the windows of a 
number of homes being broken.
In November 1872 Thomas was moved to County Mayo. He was then posted to the following 
Roscommon 1874-1876, Clare 1876-1877, Mayo 1877-1878, Kerry 1878-1879, Kildare 1879-1880, 
Limerick 1880-1881, Monaghan 1881-1883 and finally Tipperary north February 1884 until he was 
discharged on his services not being required any further in October 1884.
Between 1875 and 1881 Thomas found himself in varying forms of trouble with his authorities as 
outlined on his record:
1. 5th October 1875 – reduced twelve steps on the seniority list for making a false return of 
duty.
2. Caution of the Inspector general of dates 19-11-75, 12-12-76, 13-2-77, 5-3-78, 28/-9-78, 
27/12/78, 14-1-79, 10-9-80 and 3-1-81. All related to “persistent disrespectful writing.”
3. 10th June 1881 – reduced ten steps in the seniority list for insubordination.
His departure from the force was due to drunkenness and insubordination.

John Jones 2909

John Jones was born County Monaghan around 1811. He joined the constabulary 24th April 1838 on 
recommendation of the Inspector General.
John served only in County Antrim and was promoted to Constable 1st December 1841. In June 1858 
he was awarded ½ chevron He was pensioned 1st November 1859. By 1864 John was living at Mazes, 
Drumtullagh Ballycastle.
20th September 1869 daughter Annie Jones married widowed butcher Archibald Coils (Coyles) at St 
James Church of Ireland. Both parties were from Ballycastle. John Jones was listed as being a farmer.
He died 5
th May 1886 at Mazes, Ballycastle. John was a widower at the time of his death. Pension
record stated that he had three unmarried daughters at the time of his death. One of his daughters 
Elizabeth received the remainder of his pension. Elizabeth was named on the Valuation Revision 
records as taking over control of the property at Mazes.Present at his death was his grandson John 
Coyles.

1871

On 3rd May 1871 the death of Constable David Reid at Ballycastle was announced in local press and 
confirmed in death records. A will record stated that he was a bachelor and that his next of kin was 
Samuel Reid of Meganety (Loughgall) County Armagh. The death record states that he was 54. There 
is no satisfactory service record available for David.

1872
Moses Brannigan 7208

Moses Brannigan was born County Monaghan around 1827. He joined the constabulary 9th May 
1846 having been recommended by Sub Inspector Flinter. Flinter at this time was stationed at 
Ballymena indicating that Moses joined from this area. He had been a clerk prior to joining.
He served only in County Antrim. On 1st August 1848 he was promoted to Acting Constable but was 
reduced to Sub Constable 1st September 1851. He was then promoted to Constable 1st August 1855. 
Moses appears to have married Charlotte Douglas in the Ballymena area in 1853. On 14th April 1855 
at Ahoghill a daughter was born.
23rd October 1872 the family were living at Castle Street Ballycastle when son James Douglas was 
born. Sadly on 12th March 1874 son James died aged 15 months. Moses was then pensioned 16th July 
1875. He then took on employment as a publican. According to the Valuation Revision records in 
1876 Moses occupied a property on North Street. This appears to have been number 25 North 
Street.
On 4th April 1887 daughter Martha married farmer James McGregor at St James’ Church. Margaret E 
Brannigan was a witness. McGregor was from Moyarget.
Moses died 6th April 1889 at The Quay Ballycastle of cirrhosis of the liver. His daughter M.G. 
Brannigan was present at his death. The final pension was paid to Charlotte. In June 1889 Charlotte 
applied for transfer of spirit licence from her deceased husband to her. Charlotte died 6th April 1898.
Son Charles then took over the licensed premises after her death.
On 15th December 1897 daughter Annie Brannigan married Detective Constable William Eakins 
(49,176) of 14 Queen Street Belfast at St James’ Church Ballycastle. Eakins was native of County 
Sligo and was the son of land steward William Eakins. He had joined the RIC 8th May 1882 and 
initially served in Galway before moving to Belfast 1st June 1887. He was promoted Acting Sergeant 
1st January 1904 and Sergeant 1st September 1906. He was pensioned 23rd April 1912. During his 
service he received seven favourable records.
20th March 1901 daughter Charlotte JD Brannigan married Thomas Moles at St James’ Church. 
Thomas was the editor of the Ulster Gazette and was from 7 Woodford Terrace, Armagh. His father 
had been Edward Moles a fishery inspector. Moles became a Privy Councillor in 1923. Moles was a 
member of the Secretariat of the Irish Convention 1917-1918. Moles went to the Belfast Telegraph 
after the Ulster Gazette. He took part in the Larne gun running with the UVF. 1922 he was appointed 
the managing editor of the Belfast Telegraph. He was involved with Irish Football Association, 
Amateur Athletic Association, National Cycling Union patron of Belfast Sports Club. Father lived at 
Ardmore Ballymena. Thomas died 1937.
Daughter Sarah Branigan in 1901 was a boarding house keeper at Ann Street Ballycastle. At that time 
her sister Annie and her two children Charles Robert (born 10th October 1898 119 Upper Canning 
Street Belfast) and Phillis Maude (born at the same address 5th February 1900). By 1911 the Eakins 
were living at 119 Alexandra Park Avenue Belfast, William was a Detective Sergeant and a further 
son William Douglas (born 21st February 1906 at Alexandra Park Ave) was present.
Son Charles Douglas Branigan was a hotel keeper/publican at North Street. He had married Jane 
Charlotte McLees 7th November 1900 at St James’ Church. Jane was the daughter of land agent 
William McLees. They had a daughter born 5th September 1901 at North Street. On 28th April 1903 a
daughter Doris was born. On 17th December 1904 Doris died. 4th January 1906 daughter Mildred was
born. The Valuation Revision records show Charles taking control of a property at 17 North Street in 
1905. The records also show Charles taking control of the salmon fishery building in 1907 at the old 
pier. Charles died 21st December 1924. Charles had been a member of Ballycastle Rifle Club. The pub 
was taken over by William Machett.
Jane was killed in a motor accident at Ballyrashane in August 1937. The car was driven by her son-in
law George Scarlett. Mildred Kathleen had married George Scarlett MB B.Ch son of Mr and Mrs WJ 
Scarlett Ulsterville Avenue Belfast in September 1929 (see George Scarlett below). Mildred noted as 
being the niece of Deputy Speaker of House of Commons (Thomas Moles). Her parents had lived at 
Lisvarna in Ballycastle. 

Sub Inspector William Barry 

1st December 1872 – 1st March 1877
William Barry was born County Galway 1828 son of farmer William Barry. He joined the constabulary 
5th August 1845 and worked his way through the ranks. He served in Counties Monaghan, Mayo and 
Waterford. His registered number was 6852. On 1st November 1872 he became an officer at the age 
of 47 years.
On 28th November 1872 William married Mary Theresa Tierney of Peter Street Waterford. Mary was 
the daughter of shop keeper John Tierney. He was then posted to County Donegal but within a 
month was sent to Ballycastle arriving 1st December 1872. The Valuation Revision records places 
William Barry at North Street at reference number 41 between ruins and the Coastguard station.
On 6th September 1874 son John Alphonsus was born at The Quay Ballycastle. Two years later on 
24th September 1876 daughter Kate Ursula was also born at The Quay Ballycastle.
On 1st March 1877 William was moved to County Leitrim. He was the last Sub Inspector in Ballycastle
as the district was dissolved with the Sub Inspector in Ballymoney having remit over both areas. The 
barracks at this time then moved from Anne Street to Castle Street.
On 13th December 1878 son James Ignatius was born at Aughadark. On 19th April 1881 daughter 
Mary Beatrice was also born at Aughadark.
William was then transferred to County Fermanagh 10th June 1881. He died 27th October 1883 at 
Drumnary (Derrygonnelly) County Fermanagh aged 54 of bronchitis.

1874

John Kelly 39,889

John Kelly was born County Tyrone in 1855 and was the son of farmer Terence Kelly. He joined the 
Royal Irish Constabulary 6th December 1873 on the recommendation of Sub Inspector William 
Francis Purcell who was based at Omagh. John was a draper prior to joining.
He was sent to County Antrim 30th June 1874 and was then transferred to Belfast 16th November 
1875. On 1st January 1878 John was transferred to County Donegal.
On 1st September 1881 John married Sarah Kelly at Ballycastle. Sarah was a servant from Broughinlea 
and John was stationed at Buncrana at the time. Sarah was the daughter of land steward John Kelly. 
Witnesses were Patrick Verdon and Annie Darragh. Patrick appears to have been a publican of Anne 
Street and Annie may have been the daughter of Archibald Darragh of Ballyloughran.
John returned to Belfast 10th December 1883 and was promoted to Acting Sergeant 1st July 1885 and 
then to Sergeant 1st November 1887.
On 27th August 1889 son John Terence Kelly was born at Broughinlea Ballycastle. At the time John 
was stationed at Antrim Road Belfast. John was still in Antrim Road in April 1892
He was pensioned 1st February 1901 and at the time of the census was living at Cavendish Street 
Belfast. He then moved to Omagh where he claimed his pension from 27th April 1901. His pension 
record shows he moved to Ballycastle (claiming at Ballymoney) from 26th August 1910.
By the time of the 1911 census John was living at Broughanlea Fair Head Ballycastle with Sarah. The 
census record shows that they only had the one child.
A later pension record places John at Anne Street Ballycastle. The Valuation records puts him on 
Anne Street from 1913 a few doors away from fellow RIC pensioner Hugh Clarke (see below).

1876
Patrick Foley 13,299

Patrick Foley was born in County Cork around 1826 or 1829 the son of farmer Patrick Foley. He 
joined the constabulary 18th September 1849 having been recommended by AF Roche JP.
He was sent to serve in County Antrim from 1st January 1850. He was reduced to 2nd Sub Constable 
1st October 1853, promoted back to Sub Constable 1st March 1854, back again for six months from 
15th October 1864, promoted to Acting Constable 1st April 1869 and finally to Constable 1stNovember 1872.
Patrick was pensioned 16th April 1875. He appears to have claimed at Lisburn until 7th January 1876 
when he claimed at Ballycastle.
He married Susan McGill 18th November 1875 at Ballycastle chapel. Susan was the daughter of 
shopkeeper John McGill.
He died at Anne Street Ballycastle 12th January 1895 aged 66. Mary McGill was present at his death. 
Mary was his sister-in-law and was a cloth shop keeper. The remainder of his pension was paid to 
Susan. His pension record was annotated “imbecile” indicating that Patrick had some mental health 
difficulties towards the end of his life.
In 1901 Susan was living with her sisters and brothers at Anne Street. A brother Hugh was a Union 
Clerk. On 27th September 1913 Susan died at Antrim asylum aged 77. She was noted in 1911 at Holy 
Well asylum (Antrim).

George Scarlett 8515

George Scarlett was born County Fermanagh around 1828. He joined the constabulary 16th February 
1847 on the recommendation of Sub Inspector Edward Dunsterville who was stationed at Arney 
near Bellanaleck at the time.
He served initially in County Cavan. On 12th September 1862 George married Mary Anne Henry. He 
was promoted to Acting Constable November 1862 and Constable 1st May 1864. George was 
pensioned 1st July 1876 from County Monaghan. It is not clear when he moved there, however son 
William James was born in Monaghan around 1864/1865 which would indicate that George moved 
there on promotion. A daughter Jane was born 1874/1875 also in Monaghan.
Son John Sharpe Scarlett was born in Castle St 19th August 1876. The property Valuation Revision 
books place George Scarlett at Castle Street from 1876 and a further property beside it in 1877 
(references 61 and 63 respectively). 7th March 1879 birth of Hugh Samuel Scarlett at Castle Street.
Valuation Revision records show that George Scarlett also had control of property in Townparks 
reference 16b 1898. This was taken over by his son John in 1916. In 1899 George Scarlett appears to 
have purchased 42 Castle Street and control was given to his son John. He still retained control of 40 
Castle Street (previously referred to as references 61 and 63). John took control of both properties in 
1910 where he had his boot merchants.
On 6th November 1894 William J Scarlett, son and publican, married Agnes Saunders of Belfast at 
Argyle Place Presbyterian Church Belfast. William’s son George married Kathleen Branigan as above.
They remained in Belfast and at the time of the 1901 census were living on Sandy Row and William 
was a publican with his sister Jane living with them and at the time of the 1911 census William’s 
brother Hugh was living with them. The bar was at 172-174 Sandy Row and was named “Scarlett’s.”
As outlined previously they went on to live at Ulsterville Avenue not far from Sandy Row. William 
became a JP and was a one time member of the Water Board and President of St George’s Unionist 
Association.
On 14th September 1905 Janie Scarlett, daughter, married George Bryans, clerk of 26 Sandhurst 
Gardens, Stranmillis at St James’ Ballycastle. George was son of farmer John Bryans. Witness was 
John S Scarlett and Annie E Maybin. 
At the time of the 1901 census the Scarlett family were living at Castle Street Ballycastle. In the 
household were George, his wife and son John and daughter Mary Elizabeth. On 17th June 1901 
Mary Elizabeth Scarlett married coachman Richard Caulfield son of labourer Adam Caulfield. They 
married at St James’ church. Witnesses were S McCormick and A Scarlett.
George was a Select vestry man for Ramoan Parish Church. He died 20th July 1901 at Castle Street 
Ballycastle. The remainder of pension was paid to his widow. He was noted to have been a staunch 
Conservative and was buried at Ramoan Parish. 
Son George Henry Scarlett went on to be post master and was a JP. He was also a Captain in the local 
Boys Brigade. George married Hester (Hessy) Jane Black who was the postmistress at 12 Anne Street. 
They married 29th April 1898 at All Saint’s Church of Ireland Belfast. George was a telegraphist and 
was living in Belfast. Hessy was the daughter of merchant Dennis Black. Daughter of George Henry 
Scarlett, Phylis Hester was born 28th February 1899 at Anne Street. The Vaulation Revision records 
show George H Scarlett taking control of 63 Anne Street in 1909 as the Post Office.
On 19th February 1920 widow Mary Anne died aged 84. L.W. Scarlett was present at death.
A grandson George White, son of John Sharpe Scarlett went on to run a footwear and printing 
business. His mother was Elizabeth Hayes White. They married 17th September 1913 at Ballycastle 
Presbyterian. George White died November 1976. He had been a secretary at Ballycastle Golf Club in 
the 1950’s.

Denis Black 35,841 (not in receipt of pension)

Denis was born Ballycastle County Antrim around 1851. He joined the Royal Irish Constabulary 23rd
July 1869 aged 18 having been recommended by Head Constable George Lalor who was stationed at 
Ballycastle. He appears to have joined from County Londonderry.
He initially served in County Down from 4th December 1869. On 16th October 1870 he became a 
Mounted Constable and went to serve with the Reserve. On 20th October 1871 Denis was 
transferred to County Londonderry and in September 1872 was noted in Coleraine.
Denis was admonished due to being drunk 22nd December 1873, and fined 15 shillings 4th June 1874. 
On 7th April 1875 he was dismounted. He was again fined 80 shillings 14th October 1875. Denis was 
dismissed 1st November 1876.
In 1901 living at Tamlaght, Ardclinis with brother John Black. Died 11th March 1911.
Denis had joined when he was 18 which would indicate that his father was or had been a member of 
the constabulary. There is no suitable match.


1st March 1877

1st March 1877 the Ballycastle policing district was dissolved and the post of Sub Inspector for 
Ballycastle was removed with the Sub Inspector at Ballymoney taking charge. The post of Head 
Constable was also centred in Ballymoney.

1880

Thomas Dugdale 37,179

Thomas Dugdale was born in County Leitrim in 1853 son of farmer Henry Dugdale. He joined the RIC 
6th December 1879 on the recommendation of Sub Inspector Francis Blake Lopdell. Thomas was only 
18 when he joined however it is not apparent that his father was a serving or former RIC member.
Thomas was sent to King’s County 29th April 1871. He was transferred to County Antrim 16th
September 1877. Dugdale married Jane Cobbe 30th May 1878 a St Paul’s Church Portarlington 
Queen’s County. Jane was the daughter of boot and shoe maker William Cobbe. Thomas was 
stationed at Portglenone at the time.
In April 1879 son Henry Crawford was born in Mountmellick area. Thomas was still stationed at 
Portglenone. Thomas was “removed” 8th March 1880 and may have been sent to Ballycastle at this 
time. On 23rd May 1880 daughter Jane was born at Portarlington, Thomas was stationed at 
Ballycastle.
On 31st January 1882 daughter Rebecca Cobbe was born at Ballycastle barracks. The following year 
on 22nd July 1883 son William John Croaghan Dugdale was born Chapel Lane Ballycastle. Sadly on 
12th October 1883 William John Croaghan Dugdale died of enteritis at Chapel Lane Ballycastle.
By December 1883 Thomas was stationed at Ballymoney. On 13th October 1884 son Thomas Walter 
Mullen was born at Church Street Lisburn were Thomas was then stationed. On 26th March 1886 
daughter Susan Croghan was born at Smithfield Lisburn where Thomas was stationed.
On 1st June 1886 he was promoted to Acting Sergeant and was stationed in Ballymoney. Then on 1st
October 1886 he was promoted to Sergeant. In September 1887he was transferred from Ballymoney 
to Ahoghill. On 29th September 1887 daughter Maud Mary Jane was born at Toome where Thomas 
was Sergeant. On 14th December 1888 daughter Louisa Seabrook was born at Dervock where 
Thomas was then Sergeant. 
Thomas was admonished 2nd September 1889 and on 16th October 1889 Thomas received an 
unfavourable record and was warned. He was warned again 16th April 1890 and reduced to the rank 
of Constable on 19th April. In November 1889 daughter Harriett Anne was born at Portarlington, 
Thomas was still at Dervock.
Thomas was then transferred to County Donegal 10th May 1890 and was pensioned 4th October 
1890. On 28th September 1891 son George William was born at Broomstreet Mohill. Thomas had 
claimed his pension at Mohill but then Belfast West by September 1891. His pension was payable to 
his wife Jane from 7th January 1893 under power of attorney.
His pension address and status changed a number of times over the next couple of years:
15th June 1894 Longford
3rd August 1895 Trim – pension record marked as “emigrant.” It is thought Thomas went to USA at 
this time.
19th August 1895 Longford
26th August 1895 power of attorney cancelled (it is likely that Thomas returned from USA).
15th October 1895 Longford
27th April 1896 daughter Eva was born at Newtownforbes County Longford
11th July 1896 Belfast West
Longford 15th March 1897
1901 census Craane, Moydow, County Longford.
1st August 1901 pension again paid to power of attorney as Thomas was again in America. This was 
revoked in 1913. At the time of the 1911 census the family were at Craane, Moydow, County 
Longford. It was noted that they had 11 children born 7 of which were alive.
On 26th June 1922 it was noted that his address was Glenbank Connecticut USA. This was later to be 
734 Main Street Clark’s Hill, Stamford, Connecticut.

1881

William Chadwick 27,477

William Chadwick was born County Cavan around 1844 and was the son of Henry Chadwick. He 
joined the constabulary 13th February 1862 on the recommendation of Rev A Nicholls. William was 
18 at the time of joining which would indicate that his father was in the police, however the only 
Henry Chadwick was 31,063 and appears to be William’s brother. Henry’s marriage certificate in 
1874 states his father’s name to be Henry William Chadwick. Henry also joined aged 18.
He first served in County Donegal from 8th June 1862. In 1872 he appears to have been serving in the 
Letterkenny area. On 1st May 1874 he was promoted to Acting Constable and on 1st June 1875 to the 
rank of Constable.
While there he married Rebecca Stevenson 5th December 1879 at Donegal town. Rebecca was the 
daughter of farmer William Stevenson and was from the townland of Drummenny Lower just east of 
Donegal town where Chadwick was stationed.
William was then transferred to County Antrim 1st April 1880. On 29th September 1880 daughter 
Margaret Anne was born at Drumgorman County Donegal near to Mountcharles. At that time 
William was stationed at Aghalee County Antrim.
By 12th November 1881 William was at Ballycastle where daughter Mary Jane was born at the
barracks. On 4th January 1883 son William Henry was born at the barracks. A further daughter 
Rebecca Stevenson was born at Ballycastle barracks 18th May 1884.
On 1st July 1886 William was promoted to Head Constable . A fortnight later on 15th July 1886 son 
Robert George was born at the barracks.
William was then transferred to County Meath on 15th October 1886 and appears to have gone to 
serve in Slane. He was pensioned 20th October 1892 and claimed his pension at Londonderry.
On 21st December 1892 son Samuel was born at 3 Laburnum Terrace Londonderry. By 1896 William 
was appointed superintendent of the municipal slaughterhouse in Londonderry. 
In 1901 the family were living at 21 Little Diamond Londonderry. Son William was working as a stock 
broker’s clerk and daughter Rebecca was a solicitor’s general clerk.
William resigned his position at the abattoir in September 1906 due to failing health. At the time he 
asked if he could remain in the house tied to the job for some time to allow for gaining a new 
dwelling place.
William died 20th November 1907 at 23 Westland Avenue Londonderry aged 63. He was buried in 
the City Cemetery
At the time of the 1911 census the family were still at Westland Avenue. Margaret and Mary were 
National School teachers and Rebecca was a typist. Robert was an architect and civil engineer living 
in Castlebar County Mayo. William was now a stock broker’s assistant and was married to Sarah 
Mary Robinson and living at Meadowbank Avenue Londonderry. They had married 13th December 
1910 at Donemana Presbyterian Church. William went on to run a stock broking business on 
Shipquay Street Londonderry along with Robert Chadwick under the name Messrs James Stewart & 
Co. Prior to his employment Robert had been a captain with the 15th Loyal North Lancashire 
Regiment in WW1. In 1919 he was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the Belgian monarch. He had 
previously been a 2nd Lieutenant in the 11th King’s Liverpool Regiment.
William emigrated to Canada at the end of the 1920’s and died in 1958. Robert also emigrated to 
Canada around the same time and died in Toronto 19th September 1955.
9th April 1912 Margaret (known as Madge) married teacher Robert McIlroy B.A. of ‘Auburn’ Strand 
Road Londonderry at Christ Church in the city.
3rd September 1918 Mary Jane married James Stanley Nevin of Eden Terrace Londonderry. James 
was a mercantile clerk, however his father was Francis Nevin who had been the headmaster at the 
Model School where Mary had been working. The wedding took place at 23 Westland Avenue and 
Mary’s brother Samuel officiated as he was by then a minister in the Church of Ireland.
William’s wife Rebecca died 9th September 1939 at 4 Crawford Square Londonderry. Their daughter 
Rebecca died 3rd October 1956 also at 4 Crawford Square.
Samuel died 7th November 1959. It was noted that he was The Rev Canon Samuel Chadwick M.A. of 
Earlsgift Rectory Donemana. His sister Mary lived with him. Samuel died in his vestry shortly after a 
baptism. His coffin was carried by members of the RUC in Donemana.

1885

William Henry Belford 49,749

William Belford was born County Cavan in 1864. He was the son of Sergeant Richard Belford 6139. 
He joined the RIC 2nd August 1882 having been recommended by Sub Inspector Brown.
He was posted to County Clare 29th October 1882 then Roscommon 1st April 1883. William was 
transferred to County Antrim 4th October 1885.
On 15th August 1890 William married teacher Margaret Livingstone Ruske of Ballycastle. Margaret 
was the daughter of farmer Robert Ruske. Robert Ruske may have been from Drumlom, Shercock 
County Cavan, as per 1901 census return.
The Valuation Revision records places William at Anne Street from at least 1892. This was later 
‘Fleurville’ from 1907. He therefore appears to have control of two properties. This address was 
changed in the early 1920’s to Quay Road and appears to have been number 18.
On 10th May 1894 son Albert Richard was born at Anne Street Ballycastle. A daughter Evaline Jennie 
was born at the same address 31st July 1895.
William was pensioned 11th February 1898. A further daughter Martha Letitia was born 6th March 
1899 at Ann Street.
1901 living at Anne Street Ballycastle and listed as being a colliery clerk. Son William Henry was born 
26th July 1901 at Athelford Ballycastle. By October William sr was listed as working in the estate 
office. 10th June 1904 son Alfred James was born at Anne Street, which presumably was Athelford. 
William was still working as a clerk.
1911 still living at Anne Street, William’s occupation was listed as hotel gas works, golf club and lawn 
tennis club secretary. Margaret was a teacher under the national board.
June 1920 secretary Ballycastle Marine Hotel Co. In court applying for transfer of a spirit licence for 
the Marine as it had been sold as part of a hotel syndicate which also acquired the Golf Hotel 
Portush (later named Castle Erin).
William was noted as being a member of North Antrim Constitutional Association (treasurer), 
Ballycastle Rifle Club, secretary of Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, North Antrim Horticultural and 
Orchard Assoc (1921). Member of Ballycastle Urban Council, appointed JP in 1922. Board of 
Ballycastle High School. First secretary of both golf and tennis clubs
He died 2nd March 1942 at Fleurville Anne Street/Quay Road Ballycastle. Probate was paid to William 
Henry Belford medical doctor and Alfred James Belford barrister-at-law. Margaret died 25th October 
1947 also at Fleurville. Son Albert became a bank manager. William was a doctor based at 
Ballymoney.
1886
James McNally 29,566

James McNally was born in County Monaghan around 1841. He joined the constabulary 17th June 
1864 on the recommendation of Edward Atthill JP of Advarney House, Ederney County Fermanagh. 
He appears to have joined from County Fermanagh.
Initially James was posted to County Galway from 7th January 1865, then Donegal on an unrecorded 
date. 
On 27th September 1871 James was married to Cecilia Hellen daughter of mechanic Edmund Hellen
of Londonderry. James was stationed at Ramelton at the time, however the marriage was in 
Londonderry.
On 1st May 1872 he was sent to County Sligo where he was promoted to Acting Constable 1st
October 1881 and Constable 1st June 1882.
On 1st February 1886 James was transferred to County Antrim. By December he was serving in 
Ballycastle where he remained until the end of 1891 when he was moved to Armoy.
In September 1893 James was noted as being in Ahoghill. James was pensioned 15th July 1894. He 
decided to settle in Ballycastle and rented a house on North Street known as Dunanie House.
At the time of the 1901 census he was living at Anne Street Ballycastle. He died at Quay Road 
Ballycastle 25th February 1907.

1888
James Black 23,714
​

James Black was born in Ballycastle County Antrim around 1838. He joined the constabulary 21st July 
1858 having been recommended by Sub Inspector Burdon. His previous occupation was as a sailor.
He was posted to County Down 12th November 1858. On 1st March 1860 James was sent to the 
Reserve where he stayed until possibly 1st July when he was moved to County Londonderry. It was 
possibly at this stage he became a mounted officer.
James was admonished 15th November 1869, fined 20 shillings 21st November 1876, 50 shillings 17th
December 1877, 20 shillings 29th January 1881 and 60 shillings 13th July 1882.
In June 1870 James was noted as working in Coleraine. By September 1871 James was transferred to 
Limavady according to the press. However it was noted that on 1
st June 1872 while stationed in 
Coleraine James was promoted to Mounted Acting Constable on the recommendation of Sub 
Inspector George Wray. There may have been some inaccuracy in the report of the move to 
Limavady. It was noted in the Coleraine Chronicle that James had skill, quickness and courage in 
apprehending criminals.
James was then dismounted on 11th July 1872. In September 1872 James was transferred from 
Coleraine to Londonderry. It was noted that he was to be replaced by his brother Denis Black
(possibly as previously mentioned).
On 24th April 1875 he was wounded in the head. The following may refer to the injury.
On Saturday evening while a number of the Mounted Constabulary were in patrol in the 
Strand, Mounted Constable Black, owing to some mishap to his saddle fell to the ground and 
was trampled om the breast by his horse. He was immediately removed to James Street 
barrack where he was attended by Dr Dareus. On making enquiries last night it was 
ascertained the injured Constable was progressing favourably.
He was then reduced in rank to Sub Constable again 29th January 1876. On 1st January 1878 James 
was transferred to County Tyrone. In June 1879 James was noted as working in Strabane.
He was pensioned 1st November 1888 and his departure from Strabane was universally regretted.
James died 4th March 1900 at Mill Street Ballycastle where he lived with his sisters Lizzie and 
Catherine. A Sally Spence of Cloughcorr was present at his death. The sisters were noted at the 
address in 1901 and 1911. His brother Archibald was also in RIC (see below). In his will James left 
£200 10s to his sisters. James’ final pension payment was paid to the Rev Thomas Cox who was the 
administrator.
Sally Spence was from Cloughcorr, Ballintoy and was married to farmer Arthur Spence. They married 
in 1859 at Ramoan Presbyterian Church. Arthur was a widower at that time.

1889

Robert Halligan 46,788


Robert Halligan was born County Armagh in 1862 son of Christopher Halligan (possibly of 
Ballymagerny near Loughgall). He joined the RIC 16th March 1881 having been recommended by Sub 
Inspector Jones.
He was first posted to Belfast 30th August 1881. Robert was then transferred to King’s County 27th
November 1885. He was fined 10 shillings 16th December 1885 which may be linked to his transfer.
On 23rd March 1888 Robert was moved to County Monaghan. 
He was transferred to County Antrim 10th May 1889 and was posted to Ballycastle. On 22nd October 
1889 Robert married Elizabeth Mary Smythe at St Mark’s Church Ballysillan. At that time Robert was 
still stationed at Ballycastle and Elizabeth was living at 36 Meadow Street Ligoniel, Belfast. Her father 
was engineer John Smythe. Elizabeth was also from County Armagh. Witnesses were Constable 
Thomas Livingston 45,144 and Mary Ann West.
1891 a daughter Florence was born in Belfast. However by 25th December 1891 a further daughter 
Elizabeth Mary was born at Ballycastle. On 24th July 1893 daughter Edith Annie was born at Anne 
Street Ballycastle.
According to the Valuation Revision records Robert occupied at property next to, or near, the new 
barracks at Market Street from 1892.
Robert received two awards, 10th March 1893 and 6th September 1894.
11th August 1895 son Robert John born at Anne Street. 29th September 1898 son Henry Norman born 
at Ballycastle. On 1st February 1901 Robert was promoted to Acting Sergeant in Ballycastle.
At the time of the 1901 census Robert was a lodger in a house on Rathlin Island in the Demense
townland. The property was run by Annie McKinley. Also resident in the property were three 
coastguards. His family however were living at New Market Street Ballycastle.
On 1st May 1903 Robert was promoted to Sergeant and was posted to Kells/Connor. Robert was 
cautioned 26th April 1906. On 20th April 1907 daughter Florence died of TB at Kells. The Nominal 
Returns for 1910 and 1911 places Robert in Kells. He was pensioned 12th December 1911.
In April 1914 applied for transfer of licence from Martha Mallon for 36 Vernon Street Belfast. On 16th
May 1914 Robert was prosecuted for opening licenced premises outside permitted hours.
Robert died 26th April 1937 at Vernon Street. Probate was paid to his son Norman who then applied 
for transfer of the licence.

1893
Sergeant Thomas Doohan 41,915

Thomas Doohan was born County Mayo in 1855 son of John Doohan a farmer. He joined the RIC 7th
February 1876 on the recommendation of Sub Inspector Frederick Augustus White. White died of 
typhoid fever aged 48 as a County Inspector.
He was first posted to County Tyrone 31st August 1876 and appears to have been sent to Cookstown. 
He was promoted to Acting Constable 1
st September 1883.
On 4th October 1883 he married Margaret Jane Morgan at Cookstown chapel. Margaret was the 
daughter of sailor William Morgan and lived at Cookstown at the time. He was then transferred to 
Belfast 15th December 1883. 16th March 1885 son William Patrick was born at 83 Cupar Street Belfast
In Belfast Thomas was promoted to Sergeant 1st July 1885. On 21st December 1886 he was 
transferred to County Antrim and appears to have been stationed at Rasharkin. 
Despite his moves two daughters were born at the maternal home. On 15th June 1887 daughter May 
Margaret was born at Loy, Cookstown and 6th January 1889 daughter Honoria (Nora) was born at 
Cookstown.
In 1891 he was posted to Ballycastle. On 30th August 1891 son John Joseph was born at Ballycastle.
On 12th December 1892 daughter Alice born at Ballycastle. On 10th May 1895 daughter Helena May 
born at Ballycastle. She died 5 days later of tetanus. 11th December 1896 daughter Helena Louisa 
was born at Ballycastle
On 10th February 1899 Thomas was promoted to Head Constable and was transferred to County 
Leitrim and was stationed at Manorhamilton.
Thomas was transferred back to Belfast 20th October 1900. At the time of the 1901 census the family 
were living at the barracks at Henry Street. In July 1905 he was transferred from Henry Street to be 
the officer in charge of records at Belfast Police Courts.
In February 1906 he was noted as presiding over the annual meeting of Belfast RIC Cycling Club at 
Glenravel Street barracks. At the meeting he was elected as captain for the year and was elected as a 
delegate to the Irish Amateur Athletics Association. 
O 9th May 1910 at “Doreen” Cliftonville Road Belfast daughter Nora died of heart disease aged 21.
She was buried at Milltown Cemetery.
In 1915 and 1916 he was noted as working from Belfast Police Office in the city centre. However the 
Nominal Returns places him at Henry Street 1910, 1911, 1916, 1917, and 1918. This suggests that 
although he worked at the Police Courts he was based at Henry Street.
He was pensioned 1st June 1918. Thomas died 18th April 1921 aged 66 at St John’s Private Hospital, 
Crumlin Road Belfast. His address was “Dorene” 66 Cliftonville Road, Belfast.

October 1893 
RIC barracks on Rathlin disbanded and brought back under remit of Ballycastle station.

1894
Constable Patrick Brannigan 56,093
​

Patrick Brannigan was born County Tyrone 1870/1871 and was the son of Thomas Brannigan. He 
joined 16th October 1893 on the recommendation of District Inspector Smith.
Patrick was first sent to County Antrim 1st July 1894 and appears to have been posted to Ballycastle. 
While there he came 18th on the “P” list in a competition for 30 vacancies in December 1901. On 1st
August 1902 Patrick was promoted to Acting Sergeant.
He was transferred to Holywood County Down 26th August 1902, however from contemporary 
newspaper reports he appears to have been moved earlier.
Patrick married Eliza Hannigan 11th February 1903 at Holywood chapel County Down. Eliza was the 
daughter of former police officer Thomas Hannigan 24,977 originally from County Cavan but served 
in counties Down and Armagh. Thomas was a spirit merchant in Holywood. Witnesses were Teresa 
Hannigan, Eliza’s sister, and Constable Farrell Blaney 59,261.
Patrick was then sent back to County Antrim 1st May 1903 and was stationed at Dervock. On 25th
November 1903 daughter Eileen was born at Dervock. She was followed on 30th January 1905 by son 
Thomas.
On 1st October 1905 Patrick was promoted to Sergeant and was posted to Cushendall where by 
January he was noted as being an Inspector under the Food and Drugs Act. On 27th May 1906 son 
Vincent Alphonsus was born at Cushendall. Patrick received a favourable record 23rd January 1907.
Patrick was then moved to Glengormley by July 1908. 5th August 1909 son Joseph Patrick born at 
Glengormley. He died 10 hours later. On 17th August 1910 another son Brendan was born at 
Glengormley. He died two days later.
In September 1912 Patrick was transferred to Ballycastle in place of Hugh Loughran who had been 
promoted to Head Constable. On 13th February 1913 daughter Laurann Bridget was born at 
Ballycastle. On 24th March 1914 son Nial was born at Ballycastle, followed on 4th July 1916 by 
daughter Mary.
The Nominal Return records show that in 1918 Patrick was stationed at Ballycastle I which was the 
main station. However there was also a special station named Ballycastle II. Patrick remained in the 
town and on 2nd April 1918 daughter Emelda was born.
On 1st September 1919 Patrick was promoted to Head Constable. He was then transferred to 
Carrickmacross County Monaghan 21st September. He was presented with a cheque for a substantial 
amount at the Dalriada Hall. The presentation was made by former RIC man W.H. Belford who said 
that Patrick was never known to shrink “going into a row.”
In the Nominal Returns for January 1920 and 1921 Patrick was recorded at Carrickmacross. He 
received a favourable record 12th January 1921. He was disbanded 3rd April 1922. His pension record 
gave an address at Ann Street Dungannon in December 1922.
20th August 1939 Patrick Brannigan, merchant of Ann Street Dungannon died. Administration to 
Thomas Brannigan merchant. On retirement he came to Dungannon and conducted business in a 
spirit and grocery store. He was also a member of the Urban District Council.
Archibald Black 29,797
Archibald Black was born Ballycastle County Antrim around 1844 and joined the constabulary 7th
October 1864 having been recommended by JS Moore JP. He appears to have joined from County 
Londonderry.
Initially Archibald was posted to County Down 8th June 1865. He became a mounted man 20th May 
1866 on transfer to the Reserve. On 1st July 18687 he was posted to County Tyrone.
15th September 1871 Archibald was transferred to County Londonderry, but was moved back to 
Tyrone 1st December 1873.
His pension record states that he was promoted to Acting Constable 1st July 1875 however this was 
cancelled. He was however promoted to Mounted Constable 1st November 1880 and was moved to 
the Depot 25th January 1881 where he remained until 5th March when he was posted to the Reserve.
5th November 1883 Archibald was posted to Louth. He was then moved to County Fermanagh 4th
September 1887 and was reduced to Acting Sergeant in September 1888. He had received an 
unfavourable record 11th April 1888. On 12th October 1888 Archibald was transferred again to Derry.
On 1st October 1892 Black was promoted to Sergeant and transferred to County Cork on 21st. He 
remained there until he was pensioned 26th October 1894.
Archibald appears to have been involved in sea rowing races at Ballycastle.
Died 7th January 1898 pension paid to brother James Black. James was present at his death. Estate 
paid to sister Elizabeth Black.

1898
Constable John Kelly 52,207

John Kelly was born 1862 County Armagh. He joined 15th October 1884 having been recommended by 
Head Constable Michael Macgee (22,739) who appears to have been stationed in Louth at the time.
Macgee was around the time of recommendation promoted to District Inspector
John initially served in County Londonderry from 27th March 1887. He then was transferred to County 
Louth 21st December 1889.
John was married 29th September 1899 to Catherine (Cassie) Carragher at Greenore County Louth 
where John was stationed and Catherine lived. Catherine was the daughter of farmer Stephen 
Carragher. He was then transferred to County Antrim 26th October 1898.
On 3rd April 1900 son Francis was born at Greenore County Louth. By 1901 the family were living at 
New Market Street Ballycastle near to the barracks. On 17th June 1901 daughter Rose was born at 
Ballycastle. On 30th March 1903 daughter Kathleen was born at Greenore while John was still at 
Ballycastle. Cassie’s surname was recorded as McCarragher.
John was transferred to County Tyrone 1st January 1904. On 18th May 1905 son Peter was born at 
Skerry, Tynan, County Armagh. A further son John was born around 1909. The Nominal Returns place 
John at Ballygawley in 1910 and 1910 however his family were living with Cassie’s father Stephen at 
Skerries County Armagh. On 16th January 1911 daughter Margaret Mary was born at Skerry.
John was pensioned 23rd November 1911. On 15th December 1912 daughter Teresa Winifred wasborn 
at Skerry. This was followed on 3rd October 1914 by the birth of son James at Skerry, then on 11th May 
1916 daughter Mary Loretta and 10th May 1918 daughter Josephine. John’s occupation was listed as 
a farmer.
Skerry is the townland of Skerries in south Armagh on border with Monaghan.
​
1900


Sergeant Hugh Loughran 49,581

Hugh Loughran was born in County Tyrone in June 1864 and was the son of Patrick Loughran. He 
joined aged 18, on 11th July 1882 having been recommended by Sub Inspector McGovern. In 1882 
McGovern was based at Dungannon indicating the approximate area from where Hugh came.
He served in Tipperary NR from 26th November 1882, County Clare from 16th September 1884 and 
then County Down from 20th February 1889. On 24th October 1891 Hugh was transferred to County 
Monaghan where he was there promoted to Acting Sergeant on 1st July 1893.
On 12th September 1893 Hugh married Catherine Elizabeth Darby of Saintfield Co Down, daughter of 
merchant James Darby. Hugh was stationed at Tonysillogagh County Monaghan at the time. James 
Darby had died in 1888, he was a timber merchant and lived at Hillview House Saintfield. Catherine 
was originally from Scotland. It was probable that Hugh was stationed at Saintfield while he was in 
County Down. A son Daniel Joseph Loughran was born at Saintfield County Down on 2nd July 1894.
From 24th March 1895 Hugh was transferred to County Antrim where he was promoted to Sergeant 
on 1st November 1895. Hugh was mentioned in the press as being a contemporary of John Miller, as 
mentioned, from 1896. Indeed on 18th July 1896 a further son James Patrick Loughran was born at 
Saintfield and Hugh was noted as being a sergeant at Ballymoney. In 1898 he was noted as being 
Inspector of Weights and measures. In the same year Mary Rosaleen Loughran was born at Charlotte 
Street, Ballymoney on 18th March. In Ballymoney Hugh, Catherine and family lived according to the 
valuation records at 58 Charlotte Street until around 1901.
By 1900 Hugh had transferred to Ballycastle with daughter Kathleen Loughran born there on 11th
August 1900. By 1901 the family were living at North Street Ballycastle.
26th September 1902 daughter Norah Frances was born at Ballycastle. 8th September 1905 son Hugh 
Patrick was born at Ballycastle. 18th October 1907 so William Alphonsus was born at Ballycastle.
At the time of the 1911 census the family were living at the barracks at Market Street.
Hugh was promoted to Head Constable on 19th July 1912 and was moved to Ballymena. He remained 
there until the end of his service. In 1932 he was recorded as living at 19 Suffolk Street Ballymena.

1901 census
Barracks
Sergeant Hugh Loughran 49,581 (as above)
Constable Andrew Blackburne 55,108
Andrew Blackburne was born 18th April 1869 at Kittyfergal, Stranorlar, County Donegal son of famer 
John Blackburne and Mary Ferguson.
He joined the RIC 16th July 1891 on the recommendation of District Inspector William Stephens of 
Raphoe. He was initially sent to serve in County Cavan 18th June 1892. Stephens had been promoted 
through the ranks and held registered number 17,313. He had retired by the time Andrew had 
joined.
On 1st February 1898 he was transferred to County Antrim. By 1901 he was stationed at Ballycastle.
Andrew was transferred to Londonderry 14th March 1903 and was noted in April 1905 as being
stationed at Bishop Street. On 6th May 1905 Andrew received an injury to his head. This may relate 
to an assault which occurred a month previous at 22 Fulton Street and caused by James Duffy. It was 
stated that Duffy had hit Andrew around the head with something like the buckle of a belt and 
knocked him to his knees and caused a wound. Andrew was later reported to have been in a weak 
state.
15th April 1909 Andrew married Sarah Ann Ferguson of Killycor at Banagher Presbyterian Church. 
Andrew was stationed in Londonderry at the time. Witnesses were Minnie J Ferguson and Constable 
Benjamin Whyte Hunter 58,676.
On 31st December 1910 son John Crooks was born at 8 Harding Street Londonderry. At the time of 
the 1911 census the family were still at 8 Harding Street. During this period Andrew was still 
stationed at Bishop Street. 
He was promoted to Acting Sergeant 1st September 1913 and appears to have been sent to 
Castledawson. On 15th June 1915 son Samuel James Blackburne was born at Castledawson.
Andrew was promoted to Sergeant 1st February 1916 but remained in Castledawson. On 4
th March 
1917 son Alfred was born at Castledawson.
In April 1919 Andrew and Constable John Brady were investigated for neglect of duty at 
Castledawson. It was in relation to the death of a woman named Ellen McPeake who had died of 
exposure at the roadside at Annaghmore 11th February 1919. Andrew conducted his own defence. 
Witnesses stated that they had informed Brady of the presence of the woman in the area and he 
had failed to follow it up. Andrew stated that Brady had not told him anything about the woman. He 
too was accused of failing to follow up a report made about the woman. Both were honourably 
acquitted.
However Andrew was then transferred to County Antrim 22nd May 1919. On 2nd June 1919 daughter 
Janetta Elizabeth was born at Tamniaran which is just on the edge of Castldawson towards Bellaghy.
This suggests at that either the move was delayed or the movement of his family was subsequent to 
his transfer.
Andrew was noted the Nominal Returns at Larne January 1920 and 1921. He was pensioned 19th
August 1921 from Larne. 
An advertisement in the Larne Times 13th August 1921 stated that Mrs Andrew Blackburne of 43 
Newington Avenue Larne was opening a wholesale and retail drapery warehouse.
7th January 1951 Andrew died at 43 Newington Avenue. A note in the Larne Times stated that the 
Committee and Players of Newington Rangers Football Club regretted the death of the father of 
their esteemed member Alfred Blackburne.
Constable William Smith Dunn 56,011
William Dunn was born Grattan Street, Youghal County Cork 26th November 1874. He was the son of 
policeman Thomas Dunne (possibly 17,897) and Elizabeth Smith.
He joined the RIC aged 18 1st September 1893 having been recommended by District Inspector 
Ewart. He was formerly a teacher.
Despite being from east Cork he was sent there 21st April 1894.
He was transferred to Belfast 11th April 1897. He was moved to County Down 8th September 1898. 
William was transferred to the Reserve 22nd July 1899 until he returned to County Down 12th
December 1900.
On 6th March 1901 William was sent to Ballycastle County Antrim. William resigned 18th March 1902 
to go to South Africa.
Constable Patrick Brannigan 56,093 (as above)
Constable John McNeill 59,258
John McNeill was born 22nd April 1878 at Dunmullan, Omagh County Tyrone and was the son of 
William McNeill and Eliza Beatty.
John joined the RIC 2nd January 1900 recommended by Head Constable Eakins. He was posted to 
County Antrim 11th May 1900 and was noted in Ballycastle by July, he may have been in Loughguile 
in May 1902. 
John was in Randalstown by 1907 and remained there until promoted to Acting Sergeant 1st March 
1911 and put in charge of Templepatrick. 
On 13th June 1911 he married Elizabeth McFadden at Antrim. His brother Samuel McNeill was a 
witness. Transferred to County Armagh 1st October 1912 and promoted to Sergeant 1st December 
1912. 
Noted between 1916 and 1919 at Edenderry and then Portadown by 1920. Disbanded 31st May 1922 
serving at Edward St Portadown, he then joined RUC. In 1924 transferred to Coleraine on promotion 
to Head Constable in place of John M Culkin. 1925 3rd class favourable record for duty in Portadown. 
Retired and worked for John Kelly Ltd coal merchants Coleraine. Son William H McNeill Constable in 
RUC – known in amateur boxing circles. Killed in RTC September 1938 at Islandtasserty. Lived on 
Portstewart Road.
​

​
Picture
​Brothers:
District Inspector Samuel McNeill 61,715
Samuel McNeill was born 20th December 1885 Dunmullan Omagh County Tyrone (between 
Omagh and Gortin) son of William McNeill and Eliza Beatty. He joined 23rd February 1906 
having been recommended by District Inspector Michael Wall who was serving in Omagh at 
the time. Of note both men made their way through the ranks to District Inspector.
McNeill’s first posting was to County Sligo 1st September 1906. He was moved to County 
Antrim after eight months on 1st May 1907. Samuel appears to have been sent to Ballymena 
and was noted in the High Street barracks in the 1911 census and in January 1913 where he 
was mentioned as passing a promotion exam.
On 1st November 1913 Samuel was promoted to Acting Sergeant and transferred to County 
Armagh. By December 1915 Samuel was working in Lurgan where he was promoted to 
Sergeant 22nd September 1916. Prior to his promotion he had been Inspector of Weights and 
Measures in Lurgan. Samuel remained in Lurgan where he was promoted to Head Constable 
1st November 1919 and was subsequently was transferred to Cork ER 20th November 1919.
Samuel then returned to County Armagh 19th August 1920 and was promoted to District 
Inspector 16th October 1920. He initially went to Newtownards from 21st November but was 
moved to Castlebar County Mayo on 1st December 1920. Samuel’s service record states that 
he came to Ballymoney from Castlebar Co Mayo 16th November 1921. The Ballymena 
Observer stated that Samuel was destined for Ballymena District rather than Ballymoney. He 
was to replace District Inspector George Archie Morant who had been promoted to County 
Inspector for Louth and Meath. The Belfast News-Letter also carried the same information. 
However it seems that District Inspector Samuel Richard Wynne was in post during this 
period (Ballymena from 1st January 1921 until disbandment).
On 1st June 1922 Samuel transferred to RUC and remained in Ballymoney. In June 1923 he 
was promoted from 3rd to 2nd class District Inspector at Ballymoney. On 4th June 1924 
Samuel married Norah Evelyn Johnston at Omagh Methodist Church. Norah was daughter of 
farmer Thomas J Johnston and was noted at Freughmore, Loughmuck in the 1911 census.
Samuel remained in Ballymoney until 1932 before he was transferred to Armagh. He had 
dealt with three murders in his time at Ballymoney. He was transferred to Enniskillen by 
1934. In 1941 he was transferred to Newtownards. Samuel died 24th May 1946 at 15 
Willoughby Place Enniskillen. He was buried at Cappagh Churchyard Omagh. 
Robert McNeill 63,677
- born 26th May 1883 at Drumullan. Worked as Grocer’s assistant 
before joining. Joined 24th March 1908 recommended by District Inspector Conlin. Posted to 
County Armagh 15th September 1908 then County Antrim 1st November 1908. Serving in the 
county at the same time as his two brothers. Noted at Martinstown 1910 and 1911 in 
Nominal Returns, then Antrim Town 1916 and 1917 then Cloughmills 1918 and 19189. On 
22nd May 1919 married Sara McCullough from Drumadoon near Cloughmills. Transferred to 
County Down 9th August 1919 and noted in January at 1920 Hidemarket then in January 
1921 Newry Joint Station. Disbanded 31st May 1922 then joined RUC. Retired from Limavady 
County Londonderry 1940.
Robert Halligan 46,788 (as above)
New Market Street
Constable John Kelly 52,207 (as above)

1903
Constable Thomas Montgomery 58,323

Thomas Montgomery was born 21st February 1874 at Carrinakielt near Magherafelt County 
Londonderry and was the son of farmer John Montgomery and Susanna McCracken. He joined 15th
July 1898 on the recommendation of District Inspector Irwin.
17th January 1899 he was posted to County Tipperary. On 18th September 1903 he was transferred to 
County Antrim
On 26th February 1914 he married Sarah Wilkinson of Drumshanny County Monaghan. Sarah was the 
daughter of farmer Thomas Wilkinson. At time Thomas was stationed in Ballycastle. Best man was 
Constable Henry Neill of High Street barracks Ballymena.* Thomas was then transferred to
Bushmills.
On 19th December 1914 son Thomas John was born at Bushmills where Thomas was stationed. In 
January 1916 Thomas was still at Bushmills however on 18th November 1916 daughter Sarah 
Margaret was born at Dunmurry where Thomas was then stationed.
Thomas was promoted to Sergeant 1st May 1918 and was moved to Portglenone.
He was disbanded 21st May 1922. His pension address was given as Upper Main Street Bushmills. 
Thomas then became a boot merchant in Bushmills and died 4th December 1951 at the Braid 
Hospital Ballymena.
*Harry Neill was born Largymore, Blaris, County Down on 20th July 1885 and was the son of 
carpenter Harry Neill. He joined from County Antrim, most likely from Lisburn and recommended by 
District Inspector George William Patrick Knox of Lisburn and was given the number 62,225. Harry 
initially joined 15th November 1906 but was classed as unfit by the surgeon and was subsequently reappointed 2nd February 1907.
Initially Harry served in County Antrim from 27th July 1907 and is noted in Ballymoney from 
November 1907. In May 1909 in the town he charged a one armed street vocalist” from Lisburn 
called James Mooney with public drunkenness. A Special court held in the office of Clerk of Petty 
Sessions J Stuart Cochrane and Mooney was imprisoned for a week.
At the time of the 1911 census Harry was living in the barracks in Ballymoney. However by 26th
February 1914 he had moved to High Street barracks in Ballymena. He remained in Ballymena until 
6th January 1918 when he was transferred to the Reserve. On 4th October 1918 he married Sarah 
Gibson daughter of merchant JB Gibson of Ballymena. Harry’s occupation was given as a clerk which 
may suggest that he was working in Dublin Castle or similar or he was apprehensive about stating his 
actual occupation. His father was described as a “dead policeman RIC.” There is no evidence to 
support this entry as his father was a carpenter as far back as 1877. Harry’s residence at time of 
marriage was Dublin. They married at Kirkinriola Presbyterian. A witness was fellow RIC man William 
J Patton 62,159.
On 1st December 1921 Harry was transferred to Belfast. He was disbanded 31st May 1922

1906
Constable James Farrell O’Brien 61,430

James O’Brien was born at Breenagh, Churchill County Donegal 5th March 1887. He was the son of 
RIC Sergeant Peter O’Brien and Mary Guirke and one of eleven children. At the time of the 1901 
census they were living at Seacor Donegal.
He joined the RIC 16th October 1905 having been recommended by District Inspector MacDonald. 
James had formerly been a shop assistant.
He was sent to County Antrim 4th April 1906 and was posted to Ballycastle. James was transferred to 
Belfast 16th January 1913. He resigned 18th February 1914 to emigrate.
William Robert Meabank 45,117
William Meabank was born Old Ross County Wexford in 1861 youngest son of at that time Sub 
Constable George Meabank. He joined the RIC 6th January 1880 aged 18 ½ having been 
recommended by Sub Inspector Wilson. He was a shoemaker prior to joining.
His father George was also a native of County Wexford and had joined the police 10th October 1848. 
He served Tipperary north from 1st February 1849 and then Kilkenny. According to his service record 
George married 30th December 1856 and his wife was from what was King’s County. Interestingly his
marriage certificate states that he was married 7th February 1853 to Eliza Jessop daughter of 
Humphrey Jessop bootmaker of Portland, Lorrha. George too was the son of a bootmaker James 
Meabank. The marriage was in County Tipperary and it was after this he may have been transferred 
to Kilkenny. He was promoted to Acting Constable 1st April 1870 and then to Constable 1st May 1872. 
George was pensioned 1st May 1879. George appears to have died aged 55 29th May 1882.
On 17th September 1880 William was sent to County Limerick. He was transferred to the Reserve 
23rd March 1887 where he remained until 5th May of the same year when he was sent to County 
Kerry.
On 1st November 1888 William was posted to County Fermanagh. 1st June 1889 he was moved to
County Monaghan where he stayed for just over a year when he was sent to County Londonderry on 
6th August 1890. On 3rd December 1891 he was fined 20 shillings.
19th April 1894 William married Martha Torrens McMaster at Aghadowey Presbyterian Church. 
William was stationed at Eglinton at the time. Martha was the daughter of farmer Samuel McMaster 
of Inchaleen, Garvagh. Due to the marriage William was transferred to County Tyrone on 16th
September 1894.
William and Martha’s first child Mary Catherine was born at Gortgonis just outside Coalisland 29th
January 1895. William would likely have been stationed at Coalisland. On 11th December 1896 son 
George Samuel was born at Ballygawley where William was then stationed. While in Tyrone he 
served 12 years in Aughnacloy where he finished his service.
On 29th April 1897 William was fined 10 shillings and on 16th July 1897 he was fined twice for 30 
shillings and 20 shillings.
At the time of the 1901 census the family were living at Caledon Street Aughnacloy. At that time 
Martha’s sister Mary was staying with them.
In February 1905 it was noted that William had taken a month’s leave from Aughnacloy. William was 
pensioned 1st September 1905 and initially claimed at Coleraine. He found employment as clerk of 
the markets in Ballycastle around the start of May 1906. At the time of his employment he and his 
family were living at Enfield Terrace, Portstewart. He then claimed his pension from Ballymoney 12th
June 1906. The Valuation Revision records show William taking control of a property at Market 
Street from 1907 which formerly had been lived in by John and Margaret Jennings. John was the 
keeper of the markets according to the 1901 census.
William died of stomach cancer 2nd August 1907 at Marketplace Ballycastle aged 46. He was buried 
at Ramoan Church burying grounds Ballycastle.
1911 Martha and her two children were living at New Market Street Ballycastle. Martha was working 
as clerk of the markets.
In October 1913 it was announced that Mary Kathleen had won a place at Kildare Street teacher 
training college in Dublin to train as a National School teacher. She had prepared for the exam at 
Moneycarrie National School near Garvagh. The involvement with Moneycarrie was likely to be due 
to Mary’s maternal family who were from the Garvagh area.
In February 1917 it was noted that Miss Meabank of Market Yard Ballycastle had received a letter of 
thanks from the Military Hospital in Belfast for the eggs which were sent each week for the Red 
Cross collection.
11th November 1922 daughter Mary married William Moreland Collins son of draper John Collins 
“Ben-Eden” Ballymena (possibly on the Broughshane Road). The marriage was at Agherton Church 
Portstewart. At the time of the marriage Mary was a teacher at Canning National School Garvagh. 
She had taken up the post in mid-1918. It was noted that Martha was then living in Garvagh. Martha 
died at Gettican Bridge Garvagh 8th March 1955. A will record for William Collins for 1962 gives his 
address as Islandview Causeway Street Portrush
George Samuel Meabank, William’s son, joined the RIC 8th March 1920 having been a soldier. George 
was a sergeant in the 12th Battalion The Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) during WW1. He was 
recommended by District Inspector Irwin, joined from County Londonderry and was given the
registered number 70,625. He initially served in County Limerick but was transferred to County 
Londonderry and was promoted to Sergeant 1st February 1921. He was disbanded 31st May 1922. His 
pension record shows that he was stationed at Ballyronan at this time and he transferred to the 
RUC. 1924 still Ballyronan, 1927 transferred to Gulladuff, 1935 Ballymoney inspector under 
Explosives Act (1943 made inspector for Northern Ireland), 1944 Carrickfergus, transferred to 
Pomeroy 1948. Died 8 Castle Street Carrickfergus 28th December 1956. An announcement of death 
stated that he had been stationed in Derry, Armagh, Belfast and Carrickfergus which does not seem 
accurate and it also stated that he was sent to Carrickfergus in 1941 which was also wrong. Sadly it 
also stated that at the time of his death his wife Elizabeth was in New Zealand, had been notified of 
his severe illness and was making her way home when he died. Rather callously the paper noted that 
she would not be aware of his death. The funeral was delayed pending her arrival. They had no 
children.
A man who appears to have been William’ brother, John George Meabank, joined 14th July 1882 and 
had the registered number 49,620. He too was recommended by Sub Inspector Wilson. He served in 
counties Westmeath and Wicklow and was resigned 11th February 1888 with a view to entering the 
Civil Service. It is not apparent if he did this as there is no entry for him in the 1901 census. In 1907 
he emigrated to USA and lived in Pennsylvania. He died in 1934.

1907
Constable Patrick James McEnteer 61,374

Patrick McEnteer was born 9th March 1885 Ramelton County Donegal. He was the son of Constable 
Michael McEnteer 39,781 and Ellen McClure. Michael was from Kingscourt County Cavan, had joined 
8th October 1873 and served initially in Carrickfergus and then County Donegal from 10th February 
1883. Ellen was from Ballyclare and they married 1878. At the time of the 1901 census the family 
were living at Bridge Street Ramelton. A sister Mary was born 1889. He was pensioned 17th January 
1908. In 1911 he and Ellen were living in Regent Street Belfast. Ellen died 30th July 1918 at 42 Regent
Street Belfast.
Patrick joined 1st May 1905 having been recommended by District Inspector William Sherlock 
Lennon. He has been a shop assistant prior to joining. On 1st November 1905 he was sent to County 
Mayo. He was transferred to County Armagh 1st July 1906.
Patrick was moved to County Antrim 7th February 1907 and was stationed at Ballycastle. He was 
posted to Belfast 1st January 1911 and was stationed at Musgrave Street. 
17th October 1917 Patrick married teacher Mary Cullen of Ann Street Ballycastle. They married at the 
chapel in Ballycastle. Patrick was a constable at Glenravel Street Belfast at the time. Mary was the 
daughter of National School teacher John Henry Cullen. John was originally from Belfast, however in
1879 when he was a teacher in Ballymoney he married Margaret McHenry of Ballyvoy, Ballycastle. In 
1901 John and family were living at Fair Head, by 1911 they were at Ann Street.
By 1919 he was still stationed at Glenravel Street where he remained. Patrick was disbanded 15th
May 1922. In June 1922 Patrick was one of three applicants for the post of Town Constable and Shop 
Act Inspector at Ballycastle. Patrick was nominated by former RIC man William Belford and seconded 
by a Mr Humphreys and was subsequently successful.
His address on his pension record was Northland Villa, Ballycastle Co Antrim for October voucher in 
1922. By July 1923 Patrick had resigned from the post.
In November 1942 Patrick was mentioned as being a member of Ballycastle School attendance 
committee. His daughter Miss Mary Patricia McEnteer aged 16 died at this time. She was a pupil at 
Cross and Passion School. They lived at Ann Street
In June 1947 part of Ballycastle Labour Group and reported on receiving a letter from the Prime 
Minister of Northern Ireland in respect of the two bags of coal which had been sent from Ballycastle 
to Stormont to test. It was revealed that the coal had eventually been passed on to the Geological 
Survey Office for testing.
Hugh Clarke 48,507
Hugh Clarke was born in County Antrim around 1857 and was the son of farmer Daniel Clarke and 
Ann O’Neill of Murlough. He was baptised 21st June 1857. He joined the RIC 10th February 1882 
having been recommended by Sub Inspector Owen Wynne who was stationed at Ballymoney at the 
time.
Initially he was sent to Galway. He was transferred to County Londonderry 22nd May 1889.
Hugh married Martha McFarland of Dungiven 23rd June 1897 at St Patrick’s chapel Dungiven. Hugh 
was stationed at Victoria barracks City of Derry at the time of marriage. He had previously been 
stationed at Garvagh and Portstewart.
He was then transferred to Glenties County Donegal 1st September 1897. At the time of the 1901 
census Martha and Hugh were still living at Glenties in Donegal. He was pensioned 16th April 1907 
and appears to have spent the majority of his time in Donegal in the Glenties area.
At the time of the 1911 census Martha and Hugh were living at Anne Street Ballycastle. They had no 
children and had taken in three boarders. Hugh was employed as a General Man. They also 
employed one domestic servant.
The boarders were -
James Keegan 1893/1894 Coleraine scholar – son of publican John Keegan of Killowen Street 
Coleraine.
John Dunbar 1891/1892 Co Antrim carver and toy maker – born Ballycastle 5
th November 1891 son 
of Margaret Dunbar. No record of father on birth certificate.
Eithne Nic Lochlainn 1888/1889 Belfast, National School teacher.
Given the location of where Hugh was living, the occupation of John Dunbar and the Irish language 
links, it is highly likely that Hugh was connected to the Irish Peasant Home Industries Shop (An 
Tuirne Beag – The Little Spinning Wheel) which was located on Anne Street. Indeed he may have 
been living at or near it.
The shop was founded in 1904 by Belfast philanthropist Mrs Frances Riddell who aimed to give 
employment to the poor boys at their homes in the winter evenings and in the workshop and to 
impart technical education.” An instructor at the shop was Stephen Clarke (born 11th March 1873 
Torglass, Murlough). Stephen was Hugh’s brother. Stephen went on to become the manager and 
convinced Mrs Riddell to bring expert carver Anton Lang from Bavaria to Ballycastle to work as an 
instructor for two years. Stephen remodelled the shop in the form of a traditional cottage kitchen to 
display the items made by the boys. The shop is located where Wysner’s butcher is sited.
Stephen was also involved in political activity. On 30th May 1905 he was arrested on a charge of 
circulating literature of a treasonable nature in the shape of posters warning anyone against joining 
the army, navy or police. It was established that the leaflets had been distributed on the last fair day. 
The content of the leaflets were reported to have been
Any man joining England’s army, navy or police force is a traitor to his country and the 
enemy of his people. Let England fight her own battles. We have done it long enough.
At his trial in July 1905 the jury found him guilty of publishing and distributing but without seditious 
intent and so was acquitted on the second part. It is rumoured that Roger Casement paid his fine.
The connection with Casement was that Stephen was involved in the Gaelic League and was a close 
friend of Francis J Biggar and both Biggar and Casement had paid visits to the toy factory in
Ballycastle. According to the account of local IRA volunteer Liam McMullan the factory was a rallying 
ground for nationalists, most of who held extreme views. Bulmer Hobson was also known to have 
visited Ballycastle. Hobson founded the Dungannon Clubs along with Belfast man Denis “Dinny” 
McCullough who was to become President of the Irish Republican Brotherhood 1915/1916 and was 
involved in the organisation of the Irish Volunteers in Belfast. On 23rd April 1913 Denis stood as best 
man for Stephen at his marriage to Sarah Ann Flanagan in Dublin. 
Stephen also was involved with the Irish Volunteers and pictured at a meeting on Rathlin in June 
1914. At that meeting, held at the parochial hall, Rev A McKinley appealed to the men of the island 
to join the Volunteers and strengthen the hand of those who struggled so long to obtain self
government for Ireland. FJ Biggar also addressed the meeting and spoke in support of John 
Redmond the leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party. Clarke also spoke along with a Mr J Connolly. It 
was noted that after the meeting practically all the men on the island were enrolled.
Stephen Clarke and FJ Biggar also helped found the Ballycastle annual feis. The first was held in 1909 
and Denis McCullough was a judge. Clarke was also involved in the organisation of Ballycastle Irish 
Historical Association which saw lectures on Irish History and culture.
He later became a member of Ballycastle Council and died in 1931. The contents of the factory were 
passed on to Ballycastle museum.
Hugh Clarke died 18th January 1928 at Anne Street Ballycastle after a lengthy illness. He was buried 
at the cemetery attached to St Patrick and St Brigid’s church. 

1908

Samuel Edward Jenkins 50,320

Samuel Jenkins was born in Ardglass County Down 4th July 1864. He was the son of Thomas Jenkins 
who was a chief officer of the Coast Guard. He spent his youth however around the quay at 
Ballycastle. There is a reference to his father Thomas being at Portrush in 1872. By 1884 Thomas was 
Chief Officer at Greencastle County Donegal.
Samuel joined the RIC 19th September 1882 aged 18 on the recommendation of Sub Inspector Smith.
He served first in Belfast from 18th November 1883. On 27th February 1888 he received a 20 shilling 
fine. He then went to County Leitrim 1st March 1888 which may have been connected to the fine.
On 1st February 1890 Samuel married Annie Rutledge daughter of farmer George Rutledge at Dowra 
County Cavan. Dowra is on the border between Cavan and Leitrim.
He was transferred to County Sligo 10th April 1891. On 18th February 1892 Samuel received a 10 
shilling fines and on 7th April he received an unfavourable record. Samuel was then posted to County 
Longford from 15th April 1892.
On 22nd August 1893 son Thomas George was born at Lanesboro County Longford where Samuel was 
stationed.
Samuel received a number of unfavourable records, 28th September 1894, 10th December 1894 and 
15th November 1897. He received a further fine of 40 shillings and a warning 9th December 1898 and 
another for 50 shillings 31st July 1900.
At the time of the 1901 census Samuel, Annie and son Thomas were living at Barrack Street Granad. 
On 16th March 1903 at Main Street Granard daughter Margaret Jane was born.
Samuel was pensioned 21st November 1908 and found employment as a water bailiff In Ballycastle. 
It was mentioned later that he held the post for upwards of 16 years. He was well known to local 
fisherman as “Sam” and as having an extensive knowledge of fish and their habits. His son Thomas G 
Jenkins succeeded him in the role. 
December 1910 a man named William Ross appeared at a special court in Ballycastle charged with 
assaulting Samuel on the night of the recent election. It was stated that on Quay Road around 100 
people surrounded Samuel and he was knocked down by Ross. Ross denied the charge. The case was 
later dismissed, however during the evidence it became clear that this was a “party” case and that 
Jenkins had been drunk at the time and had acted in a disorderly manner. Ross later took Samuel to 
court for alleged false imprisonment and malicious prosecution. The matter was dismissed.
At the time of the 1911 census the family were living at Townparks Ballycastle. In September 1912 
Samuel signed the Ulster Solemn League and Covenant at Ballycastle Orange Hall.
In April 1918 it was announced in the local press that Private Thomas G Jenkins of the Irish Guards 
had been admitted to hospital having been wounded for the fourth time. In October 1917 the 
announcement of his third wounding had only been made.
12th August 1925 Thomas married Annie Matthews at Ramoan Presbyterian Church. Address from 
Vaulation records was Clare Road.
26th November 1928 Annie died at Ballycastle. The funeral was to Culfeightrin Church and included
all the former RIC men in the district.
Samuel died 4th February 1933 at Careymill just outside Ballycastle. He also was buried at 
Clufeightrin. A number of ex-RIC members acted as pall bearers. Daughter Margaret was then living 
in New York having married Harry Cochrane and son Thomas was living at Clare Road in Ballycastle 
and was still a water bailiff. In 1950 Thomas was at the same address.
Margaret was noted in the 1940 US Census as living on 2nd Avenue Manhattan. She worked as a 
receiving clerk at a dress shop and her husband was a labourer. They had a daughter Genevieve who 
had been born in Northern Ireland 1926.

1909

Constable John Martin 64,169 

John Martin was born Kilrea County Donegal 8th June 1882. He was the son of grocer John Martin 
and Anna Cannon. He joined the police 13th July 1908 on the recommendation of District Inspector 
Frederick Campbell Wallace who was stationed at Raphoe.
He was sent to County Antrim 26th January 1909 and likely straight to Ballycastle. In June 1915 he
was transferred to Portrush.
John was married 16th January 1917 to Margaret Fegan of Upper Knockbarragh Rostrevor and 
daughter of farmer Bernard Fegan. At the time of the marriage John was still stationed at Portrush. It 
is not apparent how their paths crossed, however Margaret had left the family home prior to the 
1911 census.
John was transferred to Belfast 14th April 1917 and was noted the following January at College 
Square. On 21st July 1919 son John was born at 14 Annadale Street. 
By January 1920 John was stationed at Glenravel Street. He was disbanded 26th May 1922. The 
address on his pension was 14 Annadale Street Belfast. In 1931 son John was noted as attending St 
Mary’s Christian Brothers’ School Belfast.
January 1910 Nominal Return
One sergeant five constables
Sergeant Hugh Loughran (as above)
Constable Patrick James McEnteer 61,374 (as above)
Constable John Martin 64,169 (as above)
Constable Thomas Montgomery 58,323 (as above)
Constable James Farrell O’Brien 61,430 (as above)
Constable David Smyth 58,653
David Smyth was born 1877 Ballyrory, Claudy, County Londonderry. He was the son of farmer John 
Smyth and Margaret Guy. He joined 3rd January 1899 having been recommended by District 
Inspector Samuel Hanna.
He served in County Antrim from 4th July 1899. In 1901 he was in Armoy. By 1905 he was stationed 
at Ballintoy. By January 1910 he was in Ballycastle.
He then moved to Whiteabbey by at least June 1913. He remained there until 1920. On 8th
September 1920 David was promoted to Sergeant and posted to Ballinagh County Cavan. He was 
discharged 4th April 1922.
January 1911 Nominal Return
One sergeant and four constables
Sergeant Hugh Loughran (as above)
Constable John Martin 64,169 (as above)
Constable Thomas Montgomery 58,323 (as above)
Constable David Smyth 58,653 (as above)
Constable James Patrick Slowey 65,325
James Slowey was born 24th November 1891 at College Street, Cavan, County Cavan. He was the son 
of mounted constable Thomas Slowey 47,822 and Elizabeth Cassidy. Thomas was dismounted in 
1900, promoted to Acting Sergeant 1902 and Sergeant in 1904. He died in service on 5th May 1911 of 
TB contracted while on duty
He joined the police 1st June 1910 having been recommended by Head Constable Johnstone. His first 
posting was to Ballycastle on 1st January 1911, shortly before the Nominal Return was completed.
On 23rd June 1914 he was transferred to Belfast. By January 1916 he was stationed at Springfield 
Road
He married Mary McAuley a nurse from the Diamond Ballycastle on 22nd August 1917 at Ballycastle 
Chapel. Mary was the daughter of flesher (butcher) Daniel McAuley. At the time James was 
stationed at Springfield Road Belfast. In 1901 the McAuley’s were living at Castle Street.
On 10th April 1918 daughter Margaret Elizabeth was born at 33 Kashmir Road Belfast and on 17th
November 1919 son Thomas was born.
By January 1920 James was stationed at Anderstownstown barracks. On 1st April 1920 James was 
promoted to the rank and pay of sergeant and was posted to Mountpottinger in the east of the city. 
He received a favourable record 5th December 1921.
In June 1921 his wife Mary died at her mother’s home in Ballycastle. Mary was aged 31 and died of 
TB.
He was disbanded 31st May 1922. His initial address on his pension record was 207 Mountpottinger 
Road Belfast but was then Stonebridge, Clones County Monaghan.
1911 census
Barracks
Sergeant Hugh Loughran (as above)
Constable David Smyth 58,653 (as above)
Constable James Farrell O’Brien 61,430 (as above)
Constable James Patrick Slowey 65,325 (as above)
Constable John Martin 64,169 (as above)
Hospital
Constable Thomas Montgomery 58,323 (as above)
Influenza
Townparks 
Samuel Edward Jenkins (as above)

1912

Constable Hugh Sweeney 62,204
​

Hugh Sweeney was born 27th December 1886 Letterkenny County Donegal. He was the son of grocer 
and publican John Sweeney and Sarah Martin. At the time of the 1901 census the family were living 
at Main Street Letterkenny. He joined the RIC 1st November 1906 on the recommendation of District 
Inspector William Sherlock Lennon as previously mentioned.
On 1st May 1907 he was posted to County Antrim and was noted in Bushmills in the Nominal Returns 
for 1910 and 1911 but had moved to Ballycastle by at least March 1912.
In August 1917 Hugh was transferred from Ballycastle at the same time as Constable McDyre (see 
below). It was perceived locally that the move was as result of a disciplinary matter however District 
Inspector Oates of Ballymoney stated in court that it was not as a punishment and their superiors 
had come to conclusion due to a certain set of circumstances they ought to be transferred.
Hugh was then posted to Aghalee where he appears to have finished his service. He was disbanded 
23rd May 1922. The address on his pension record was Doaghbeg, Letterkenny, County Donegal by 
October 1922
Constable Edward Molloy 63,991 (as above)
Edward Molloy was born 31st October 1884 Urney County Tyrone. He was the son of labourer James 
Molloy and Catherine Harvey. At the time of the 1901 census the family were living in Stranorlar 
County Donegal and James was working as a coachman. 
Molloy joined the RIC 1st July 1908 from County Donegal on the recommendation of District 
Inspector John Shankey. Edward had previously been employed as an asylum attendant.
He was posted to County Antrim 12th January 1909. At the time of the 1910 Nominal Return he was 
stationed at Dunmurry. By July 1912 he was stationed at Ballycastle
On 1st October 1913 Edward’s father James died at Stranorlar County Donegal. He was well known 
in the area and was the Vice President of the No 149 AOH Ballybofey. The funeral was attended by 
Edward’s brothers John, James, Bernard and Michael.
Edward received a fracture to a finger bone on his right hand 23rd June 1915.
On 16th February 1916 he married Margaret McKillop, shop keeper of Ballycastle at the chapel in 
Ballycastle. Margaret was the daughter of John J McKillop, car driver. Constable Hugh Sweeney 
62,204 was a witness.
Edward was then transferred to Dromore County Down 17th March 1916. On 29th October 1917 
daughter Mary Kathleen (Molly) was born in Ballycastle. On 18th June 1919 son John James was born 
at Gallows Street Dromore where Edward was serving.
By January 1921 Edward was stationed at Church Street, Newry.
He received a favourable record 14th April 1922 and was disbanded 26th May 1922. His pension
address was listed as The Diamond Ballycastle. In October 1923 Edward applied for the transfer of 
alcohol license from Henry McClements to himself at the Diamond in Ballycastle. Edward then ran a 
bar located at number 6 The Diamond, at the top of Fairhill Street opposite the Antrim Arms. The bar 
is now called The Diamond Bar. Two years later he applied for and was granted permission to 
structurally alter the premises.
Picture
Picture
Edward was to reasonably frequently run foul of the Licensing Act in his new venture and come 
under notice of his old colleagues. Particularly David Smith (see below) who had become a Sergeant 
after joining the RUC. All the cases were prosecuted by District Inspector McNeill (as previously 
mentioned above).
May 1924 – fined for breach of Act – his wife had given a man Tobias McCambridge two bottles of 
stout after hours to help him get over his ‘flu. It was noted in the article that he was Ex-RIC.
7th April 1926 – charged for breach of Act – Six men were found on the premises but it could not be 
proved that alcohol has been served. It was mentioned at that time that Edward had an attached 
restaurant business.
26th June 1927 – charged for breach of Act – Next door neighbour, and former licensee of the same 
premises, gave evidence (presumably after being caught out) that he had had a large number of day 
trippers from Belfast in his adjoining refreshment rooms who, after their meal, wished to have 
alcohol. McKinley saw one of Edward’s sons aged 10 or 12 and called him over to let him know that 
drink was required. It was stated that Edward then by use of a bucket and rope lowered down drink 
to McKinley who served it to the daytrippers in a cow shed at the rear of his premises. Everytime 
more drink was required he would tap on the zinc roof to let Edward know. McKinley’s credibility 
was called into question when it was mentioned that he was currently suspended from his 
employment due to an allegation of fraud. The case was dismissed.
11th February 1930 – it was alleged that Sergeant Smyth had spotted Constable William Ascough 
entering Molloy’s premises while on duty. This led to a RUC inquiry led by County Inspector 
Atteridge where District Inspector McNeill prosecuted. Smyth stated that he had followed Ascough 
in and found him drinking tea. Ascough denied any impropriety. Molloy gave evidence to the inquiry 
that he had asked Ascough to come to the bar in respect of a complaint he had made about 
somebody stealing from his premises. Mrs Molloy had asked Ascough about his sick child and the 
had fetched him a cup of tea when Smyth arrived. The matter was closed. The constable in question 
may be William W Ascough 73,654. He was originally from London, was a former soldier and had 
joined 1st October 1920. He was sent to County Antrim two weeks later indicating that he was one of 
the “black and tan” contingent. He was noted in the Nominal Return January 1921 (for further 
information see William Ascough below).
July 1930 – it was alleged by Smyth that Molloy had been operating an illegal taxi service and that he 
had taken 6 men from Ballycastle to a football match for 6s. The men involved stated that it hadn’t 
been a fare and they had done a collection for Edward after he had given them a lift. The magistrate, 
Mr Hume Riversdale Jones found Molloy guilty and it was recorded that due to some remark made 
by Molloy in the court had ordered Molloy to immediately leave the court.
8th August 1930 – Sergeant Smyth saw six footballers enter the bar at 1010pm and had heard bottles 
rattling. Smyth knocked the door and Mrs Molloy answered informing him there were 6 footabllaers 
getting tea. In court it was established that there was no evidence of drinking and Smyth was asked 
by the defence solicitor if he had been aware that the Moss side footballers had the habit of dressing 
and undressing at Molloys to which he conceded he was not. The case was dismissed.
21st June 1931 – Sergeant Smyth alleged a further breach of the licensing laws. He observed barber 
James Keegan of nearby Fairhill going into the bar at 1215am. He stated that at 1240am he had, 
somehow, heard drink being poured into a glass by a woman humming. He further alleged that at 
110am he had heard the sound of corks being popped and the sound of money going into the till. 
Keegan and Edward had then come out of the bar. Molloy had stated that he had asked Keegan to 
come and cut his wife’s hair as they were going to Donegal the next day and she had bought a new 
hat. He had gone to Keegan’s around midnight to get him. He argued that he was the only one 
drinking. The money Smyth had heard was payment for the haircut. Despite producing witnesses 
confirming his meeting with Keegan, Molloy was fined 40s and 11s costs and his conviction was 
recorded on his license.
5th January 1931 – accused of permitting drunkenness on premises. Smyth observed a very drunk 
woman coming out of the bar and then going back in again. He followed her in and spoke to Molloy. 
Molloy stated that the woman was not local and had come in drunk. He had been trying to establish 
her details to get her back to her accommodation. The woman followed Smyth out but failed to give
him her name or address and was arrested. It was established that the woman was staying at a local 
hotel. The case was dismissed.
While all this had been going on Edward had become a member of the local council for the South 
Ward. He had ran unopposed as one of five representatives, all nationalist in January 1929. It was 
noted at the time that he was not an “old nationalist.” He appears to have held onto his position for 
at least the next ten years. By May 1939 the council was nationalist controlled. In May 1958 his son 
John James was a member for the South Ward and another son Edward James was a member for the 
North Ward.
Outside of work and politics there were a couple of other incidents recorded in the local press. In 
August 1933 his 15 year old daughter was rescued from the rocks at Ballycastle by two university 
students. In October 1935 due to a heavy storm a tree had fallen down infront of Edward while he 
was driving along Mary Street. On going for help a further tree fell at the rear of the car causing 
damage. In July 1952 it was noted that daughter Theresa (their fourth daughter) had obtained a 
teaching qualification in Belfast.
In August 1959 Margaret Molloy died it was noted that she had ran the business after Edward died. 
Oddly there is no clear mention of Edward’s demise.
1914

Constable Isaiah Fulton McConnell 59,532
Isaiah McConnell was born Tulyvallen County Armagh 1875. He was the son of farmer John 
McConnell and Anneliza. He joined the RIC 16th May 1900 on the recommendation of District 
Inspector Walsh. 
He resigned 18th July 1900 stating that the Depot did not agree with him. He then returned to live 
with his family at Tullyvallen where he was recorded at the 1901 census.
He was reappointed with loss of service 16th April 1902 and was sent to County Donegal 17th
February 1903.
15th May 1907 he was sent to the Reserve and then he resigned again 29th July 1907 to go to South 
Africa.
He was reappointed again 14th February 1908 with the benefit of his previous service and was sent 
to County Down 3rd April 1908. On 1st March 1909 he went back to the Reserve. 
Isaiah was transferred to County Antrim 15th June 1912. In March 1913 he was noted at Loughguile. 
By April 1914 he was at Ballycastle. In December 1917 he was noted at Dervock.
He was transferred to County Londonderry 3rd August 1918. On 21st August 1918 he married 
Catherine McAlister of Ballycastle. Catherine was the daughter of farmer Daniel McAlister of the 
Bonamargy. They married at Culfeightrim Parish Church Ballycastle. He was stationed at Swatragh at 
the time.
On 21st November 1918 he received an injury to his left hand.
Isaiah was transferred to County Tyrone 20th February 1919 and was stationed at Moy. By January 
1921 he was in Coalisland. He was pensioned 9th January 1921 and claimed his pension at 
Ballymoney.
In September 1922 Isaiah was appointed as temporary Rate Collector in Ballycastle in place of Mr 
J.A. Byrne who had failed to collect the rates. The following June he was made permanent. In 1926 
Isaiah was found guilty of altering demand notes for rates in order to receive more money that was 
owed to a total of £23. He was sentenced to three months without hard labour. It appears however 
that his pension was not affected.
Isaiah died 27th July 1959 at ‘Ardavon’ Glenshesk Road Ballycastle. Probate was paid to farmer Daniel 
McAlister. He appears to have moved to this address around 1924.


A Second Station
Between at least June 1915 and no later than December 1917 there were two barracks in Ballycastle. 
In that period the main barracks at Market Street (Ballycastle I) was manned by men normally 
stationed in County Antrim. The other barracks (Ballycastle II) was mostly manned by men usually 
stationed in County Leitrim. All the men from Leitrim came from different barracks and were single. 
There were two men who returned to their home barracks in November 1916 and were each 
replaced by a man from their own home barracks.
The second barracks was established by the War Department to protect the wireless station near the 
top of North Street. The barracks were at 2 Victoria Terrace (known later as “Oceanview”) as 
pictured below (house to the right). The property was handed back in 1920. A later occupant was 
Rev Dr Samuel Carlyle Hughes who had been the chaplain to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland from 
1889 to 1906. He died in 1926. The station was manned by one or two sergeants and seven 
constables.

Picture
From the Nominal Returns
January 1916

Ballycastle I – Market Street
One Sergeant and five constables
Sergeant Patrick Brannigan 56,093 (as above)
Constable George Browne 65,534
George Browne was born 17th February 1888 at Corgar County Leitrim son of Samuel Browne and 
Elizabeth. By the time of the 1901 census Samuel had died and Elizabeth was head of the family and 
a farmer. The family were living at Gortinure, Mohill.
He joined the RIC 4th October 1910 having been recommended by District Inspector Lionel Yates wbo 
was based at Ballinarobe. He was posted to County Antrim 1st May 1911.
By 1916 George was in Ballycastle. In February 1919 he was noted as sending a wreath to the funeral 
of Mary J McNeill sister of the McNeill brothers as previously mentioned. On 21st June 1919 he was 
sent to County Tyrone and was posted to Drumquin.
On 19th October 1921 he married Elizabeth McIvor of Drumnakilly. Elizabeth was the daughter of 
farmer John McIvor. At the time George was stationed at Mountfield.
George was then transferred to County Down 1
st November 1921.
He was disbanded 31st May 1922. He then transferred to the RUC and was based at Scarva barracks.
George was promoted to sergeant and in 1929 when Scarva barracks were closed he was transferred 
to Loughbrickland. Scarva had previously been closed between 1901 and 1907.
George died 17th January 1967. His address was The Bungalow, Huntley Road, Banbridge.
Constable Michael Kettle 68,180
Michael Kettle was born 16th April 1891 Killyrue County Cavan. He was the son of farmer Patrick 
Kettle and Bridget Brady. His mother died October 1908 of chronic rheumatism. He joined the police 
12th October 1914 on the recommendation of District Inspector Isaac Hodge leaving his father and 
brother on the farm.
He was sent to Ballycastle County Antrim 1st May 1915. In July 1916 he was transferred from 
Ballycastle to Armoy. He subsequently was stationed at Bushmills where he served until 1920. In 
November 1920 he was stationed at Cloughmills.
Michael was disbanded 18th May 1922. His pension address was care of Mr Luke Brady 330 9th
Avenue, New York. Brady was likely a relation on his mother’s side.
Constable Edward Molloy 63,991 (as above)
Constable Isaiah Fulton McConnell 59,532 (as above)
Constable Hugh Sweeney 62,204 (as above)
Ballycastle II – Wireless station North Street
(Normal station to which the Leitrim men were attached is in brackets beside their names where 
applicable)
Two Sergeants and seven constables
Sergeant Patrick Brady 56,470 
Patrick Brady was born County Cavan 1874. He appears to have been the son of Michael and Annie 
Brady of Lisatoo, Stradone. He joined 8th June 1894 on the recommendation of Head Constable 
Duffy.
He was posted initially on 16th December 1894 to County Cork, then on 8
th January 1896 he was 
moved to the Reserve in Cork. A few months later on 13th July 1896 he returned from the Reserve to
Cork. The following year he was posted to County Louth on 1
st November 1897 and at the time of 
the 1901 census was at Gilbertstown. He received an unfavourable record 1st October 1902.
On 6
th November 1908 he was transferred to County Longford where he received a favourable 
record on 8
th June 1909. In January 1910 he was noted at Lismore Protection Post. While there he 
was promoted to Acting Sergeant 1
st November 1910. On 15th January 1911 he was transferred to 
the Reserve at the Depot where he was promoted to Sergeant 1st September 1912.
Patrick was posted to Smithfield Lisburn County Antrim 16th February 1915 but was then moved to 
Ballycastle II probably on establishment.
By September 1917 Patrick was posted to Ballymena. He was then transferred on 1
st June 1920 to 
County Cork. However his stay there was short as he was moved to Westmeath 25th September 1920
In January 1921 he was noted at Kilbeggan.
Patrick was disbanded 4th April 1922. His pension address was care of Mrs M Brady, Lisatoo, 
Stradone, County Cavan.
Sergeant Edward Martin 56,133 (Gubalaun)
Edward Martin was born Cornashannel, Maguiresbridge County Fermanagh 6th September 1871 son 
of farmer John Martin and Ann McCannon. He joined the RIC 1st November 1893 having been 
recommended by District Inspector George Amyralde de Montmorency Edwin Dagg. Dagg was based 
at Lisnaskea. In the same year Dagg was the author of the reference volume Devia Hibernia: The 
Road and Route Guide for Ireland of the Royal Irish Constabulary.
He was posted to Lisburn County Antrim 1st July 1894. He was then sent to County Roscommon 1st
July 1897 and then Westmeath 1st July 1900. At the time of the 1901 census he was stationed at 
Athlone.
He was married 17th November 1913 without leave to Mary McKnight of Ballymore where he was 
stationed. Mary was the daughter of labourer Joseph McKnight. On 1st January 1914 he was 
promoted to Acting Sergeant.
Edward was transferred to County Leitrim 4th February 1915. By January 1916 he was stationed at 
Gubalaun and was promoted to sergeant 1st December 1916. He remained there until 1919 when he 
was transferred to Kilylogford joint station.
The marriage was registered with effect from 1st January 1918 however he had received an 
unfavourable record 30th November 1914 which probably related to this breach of the Code.
Edward was pensioned 7th November 1920 and he claimed at Lisnaskea.
Constable Joseph Duignan 62,975 (Drumkeeran)
Joseph Duignan was born 3rd January 1888 County Roscommon. He was the son of farmer John
Duignan and Lizzie. In 1901 the family were living at Mantuar. He worked as a drapers assistant 
before joining the RIC 23rd September 1907. Joseph was recommended by District Inspector 
McClelland and joined from County Leitrim.
He was posted to County Meath 11th February 1908. He received an unfavourable record 23rd
November 1908 and was transferred to County Leitrim 1st December 1909. In January 1910 was 
recorded at Killarga, the following year he was at Gubalaun and was recorded on the census return. 
He received a favourable record 14th December 1912.
Between January 1916 and 1921 he was recorded as being stationed at Drumkeeran. By January 
1921 he had moved to Dromahair. Joseph was disbanded 4th April 1922. His pension address was 8 
Crocus Street Belfast.
Constable Laurence Fleming 59,952 (Farnaght)
Laurence Fleming was born Dunleckney County Carlow 21st December 1877 and was the son of 
farmer Laurence Fleming and Mary Landrickan. He joined the RIC 2nd January 1901 on the 
recommendation of District Inspector Shoveller having worked as a grocer’s assistant. He was 
discharged two days later as unfit but was reappointed 2nd April 1901.
He was initially posted to County Kerry 5th October 1901. Laurence was sent to County Waterford 1st
January 1905 but had moved on to Wexford by 1st August 1905. He was then posted to County 
Kilkenny 1st May 1906. On 1st December 1907 Laurence was sent to Belfast. By January 1911 he was 
stationed at Springfield Road.
He was moved to County Leitrim 24th August 1913 after receiving an unfavourable record on 11th
August. In the Nominal Returns between 1916 and 1918 he was stationed at Farnaght. However 
Laurence returned to serve in County Antrim 18th May 1918. By January 1919 he was stationed at
Dervock.
He was pensioned 19th September 1919 and claimed at Ballymoney. His pension address was Anne
Street Ballycastle. The Valuation Revision records place him at reference number 53 from 1925.
On 16th February 1920 Laurence married Elizabeth Boyle at Ballycastle chapel. Both were living at 
Quay Road (formerly part of Anne Street) in Ballycastle. Elizabeth was a housekeeper and was the 
daughter of shop draper Bernard Boyle. Bernard had premises at Anne Street.
In August 1930 as the result of a motor cycle accident Laurence was taken to Dalriada Hospital 
Ballycastle with severe head injuries. The accident occurred at Coolnagobagh, Ballycastle.
Constable Patrick Keaveny 66,588 (Drumshambo)
Patrick Keaveny was born 10th December 1892 County Galway. He was the son of farmer Martin 
Keaveny and Ellen. At the time of the 1901 and 1911 census he was living at Cloonminda. He joined 
the police 15th May 1912 on the recommendation of Head Constable Thomas Cheasty (43,958).
He was posted to County Leitrim 20th November 1912. At the time of the 1916 abd 1917 Nominal 
Returns Patrick was stationed at Drumshambo (although was in Ballycastle). After returning from 
Ballycastle Patrick was stationed at Ballinamore, however on 23rd March 1918 he came to County 
Antrim and by January 1919 was stationed at Armoy
Patrick was transferred to Newry County Down 1st June 1919. On 25th June 1919 he married 
Marianne McClements, housekeeper, at Ballycastle chapel. Marianne was from Anne Street and was 
the daughter of publican Henry McClements (see Edward Molloy above). A witness was Constable 
John J Kelly 59,628 (see below). 
In January 1920 Patrick was stationed at Kilkeel and the following year was at Warrenpoint. On 14th
January 1921 he was to be transferred to County Roscommon, however this was cancelled.
He was disbanded 15th May 1922. His pension address was given as 3 Ormonde Terrace, Dalkey 
which is in South Dublin.
March 1918
Constable Joseph Lyster 68,053 from Antrim (Armoy) to Leitrim (in place of Patrick 
Keaveny)
Joseph Lyster was born 10th December 1893 Corracreigh County Roscommon. He was the son of 
farmer James Lyster and Maria Brislane. At the time of the 1901 census the family were still at 
Corracreigh. He joined the RIC 10th September 1914 from County Sligo on the recommendation of 
Head Constable Murphy.
He was first sent to County Donegal 16th January 1915. The following year he was recorded at 
Anagry. Joseph was to be transferred to County Antrim on 1st September 1917 however this was 
delayed until 6th October. In January 1918 he was at Armoy. On 23rd March 1918 he was transferred 
to County Leitrim in place of Patrick Keaveny 66,588 as mentioned.
In January 1919 he was stationed at Garradice, however by the following year he was at Dromod. 
Joseph was transferred to the Dublin Castle Clerical Company on 1st April 1922 and was disbanded 
21st July 1922.
His brother Michael J Lyster also was a member (62,490). He was born 23rd October 1884. He joined 
25th March 1907 and was posted initially to the Reserve. On 17th September 1907 he was posted to 
Galway. He was selected for service with the Irish Guards and enlisted 6th August 1915. 
While serving during WW1 Michael married Ellen Connolly in Dublin 22nd January 1918. Ellen was 
from County Galway and was the daughter of farmer Martin Connolly. A witness at the wedding was 
brother Thomas Lyster.
He was re-appointed 10th February 1919 and was posted to Longford 7th May 1919. On 1st October 
1920 he was promoted to Sergeant. On 20th July 1921 he received a 3rd class favourable record. He 
was disbanded 4th April 1922. His pension address was 33 Gresham Road, Brentwood, Essex.
Another brother Patrick also joined the police (62,865). Patrick was also born at Corracreigh, on 2nd
May 1886. He joined 2
nd September 1907 and served in Cork and Galway. He resigned 9th July 1913 
to join the police in London.
Constable Daniel McDyre 66,406 
Daniel McDyre was born 12th January 1891 Derries County Donegal. He was the son of tailor John 
McDyre and Anne Cassidy. He joined the RIC 5th February 1912 on the recommendation of District 
Inspector MacDonald.
He was sent to County Antrim 21st August 1912. Daniel was stationed in Ballintoy until beginning of 
June 1915 when it was announced in the paper that he was being transferred for service at 
Ballycastle Wireless Telegraph Station. He was transferred to Ballycastle I in July 1916.
In August 1917 transferred from Ballycastle at the same time as Hugh Sweeney. It was perceived
locally that the move was as result of a disciplinary matter however District Inspector Oates of 
Ballymoney stated in court that it was not as a punishment and their superiors had come to 
conclusion due to a certain set of circumstances they ought to be transferred.
By January 1918 he was stationed at Randalstown and by January 1920 was at Crumlin. On 5th June 
1920 he was supposed to transfer to Tipperary north but this was cancelled. Instead he was 
transferred to County Londonderry 1stJune 1921.
Prior to his transfer on 11th May 1921 he married Elizabeth Ingram of Kells. Elizabeth was the 
daughter of the then deceased publican Samuel Ingram. Daniel was stationed at Kells at the time.
Daniel was disbanded 31st May 1922 and joined the RUC at Victoria Barracks, Strand Road, 
Londonderry. In 1924 he was Detective Constable McDyre and in November 1929 on promotion to 
Sergeant he was transferred from Derry to Belfast. He became a Detective Sergeant. He had scored 
79.5% in his promotion exam.
May 1936 stationed at Springfield Road Belfast and was sworn in as a Head Constable. On 13th April 
1937 he was appointed as a Detective Head Constable.
Died 24th October 1960. His address was given as 26 Baltic Avenue Belfast
Constable Terence O’Brien 65,699 (Fenagh)
Terence O’Brien was born 5th April 1889 Upper Sunville County Limerick. He was the son of farmer 
Thomas O’Brien and Bridget Connors. He joined the police 24th January 1911 on the 
recommendation of District Inspector James Reid.
He was sent to County Leitrim 1st August 1911 and was admonished 14th November 1911. By January 
1916 he was based at Fenagh but was serving in Ballycastle. On return to Leitrim he was stationed at
Gorvagh. Terence was transferred to County Waterford 10th October 1918.
By January 1919 he was at Tallow joint station. The following year he was at Ladylane. He received a 
favourable record 14th April 1921.
He died 11th January 1922 of “bronchitis and nervous debility.”
Constable Patrick Reilly 64,116 (Glenade)
Patrick Reilly was born 29th July 1884 County Mayo son of farmer Anthony O’Reilly/Reilly. He joined 
the RIC 9th July 1908 having been recommended by District Inspector Hugh Shier. In 1911 Shier was 
stationed at Arndaree. Shier had been promoted through the ranks.
Reilly was sent to County Leitrim 23rd February 1909. In January 1910 he was at Corrateriff. He was
transferred to County Roscommon 14th November 1910, however he returned to County Leitrim 10th
August 1911. By January 1917 he was at Glenade.
14th June 1917 he married Bridget Kelly of Glenade. Bridget was the daughter of farmer Patrick Kelly.
Patrick was apparently to move to County Westmeath 24th August 1917 however this was changed 
to County Sligo on 12th September 1917. By January 1919 he was stationed at Easkey where he 
appears to have remained. He was disbanded 4th April 1922
First pension address was Proughlish, Largydonnell, County Leitrim, then Keelogues, Largydonnell, 
Manorhamilton, County Leitrim from 6th December 1922.
Constable Michael Walsh 67,235 (Dromod)
Michael Walsh was born 6th September 1893 The Quay County Sligo. He was the son of pilot James 
Walsh and Ellen Hannah He joined the police on the recommendation of District Inspector Hugh 
Shier 16th April 1913.
He was sent to serve County Leitrim from 12th November 1913. By Jaunary 1916 he was stationed at
Dromod. He had moved to Gorvogh by January 1919 and by January 1921 he was at Mohill.
Michael was disbanded 4th April 1922. The address on his pension record was Quignalecka, Ballina 
County Mayo.
April 1916 there was a case in Ballycastle where a man named Thomas Courtney who was employed 
at the wireless station had allegedly been attacked by a dog belonging to Daniel McKinley of the 
Diamond. He gave evidence that when he was cycling across the Diamond the dog had flew out and 
tore his trousers. He stated that this was the second time this had happened and McKinley knew 
about it and had done nothing. The magistrates directed that the dog be kept under control and 
Courtney could proceed against McKinley for the cost of the clothing at the next court.
July 1916 County Inspector Morrison visited No. 1 and No. 2 barracks Ballycastle. Men under 
Sergeant Brannigan and Brady were inspected.
October 1916 County Inspector Morrison visited No. 1 barracks and put the men through drill and 
police duties. He complimented Sergeant Brannigan, Sergeant Brady and Acting Sergeant Martin o 
the efficiency of their men.
November 1916 Constable Deignan (Duignan) and O’Reilly return to County Leitrim after temporary 
duty in Ballycastle at No. 2 barracks. Replaced by Constables O’Shea and McCoy of Leitrim force.
January 1917
Ballycastle I – Market Street
One Sergeant and seven constables
Sergeant Patrick Brannigan 56,093 (as above)
Constable George Browne 65,534 (as above)
Constable Isaiah F McConnell 59,532 (as above)
Constable Daniel McDyre 66,406 (as above)
Constable Hugh Sweeney 62,204 (as above)
Constable Terence O’Brien 65,699 (as above)
Constable Thomas O’Shea 67,083 (Glenade)
Constable Michael Walsh 67,235 (as above)

Ballycastle II – North Street Wireless Station
Two Sergeants and five constables
Sergeant Patrick Brady 56,470 (as above)
Sergeant Edward Martin 56,133 (as above)
Constable Peter Black 61,597

Peter Black was born 19th June 1882 Mounneill County Monaghan. He was the son of farmer Patrick 
Black and Ellen Donnelly. He joined the RIC 21st December 1905 having been recommended by Head 
Constable McKeon.
He was posted to County Antrim 21st June 1906 and was noted at Dervock in May 1908. On 10th
January 1914 he received an unfavourable record. The following month on 14th February he was 
fined £1.
By January 1916 he was stationed at Aghalee. The following year he was at Ballycastle II. Following 
that he was stationed at High Street Ballymena by January 1918.
Peter was married 29th October 1918 to Mary Hever at St Mary’s chapel Portglenone. Mary was a 
dressmaker from Portglenone and was the daughter of Dominic Hever. She was a native of 
Carrowcushcly County Sligo. In 1911 Mary was a boarder in the home of draper Sarah O’Kane in 
Portglenone.
He was noted as being at Portglenone in January 1920 and 1921. He was disbanded 31st May 1922.
His pension address was Cullybackey County Antrim.
Constable Laurence Fleming 59,952 (as above)
Constable Patrick Keaveny 66,588 (as above)
Constable Edward McCoy 68,635
(Drumkeeran)
Edward McCoy was born 28th January 1894 Moybane County Armagh. He was the son of farmer 
Philip McCoy and Mary McArdle. He joined the RIC 15th April 1915 on the recommendation of Head 
Constable Gilfillan.
He was posted to County Leitrim 1st November 1915 and by January 1916 was stationed at 
Drumkeeran. He served temporarily at Ballycastle returning to Drumkeeran by January 1918.
Edward was transferred to County Westmeath 22nd November 1921. The following day he was 
married to Kate Anne Bird daughter of farmer James Bird of Moneyduff. Edward was stationed at 
Manorhamilton at the time. A witness was Constable Joseph Duignan as previously mentioned who 
had been stationed at Drumkeeran with him.
He was disbanded 10th April 1922 County Westmeath
May 1917 inspection by County Inspector Morrison No. 1 and No. 2 barracks under Sergeants 
Brannigan, Brady and Martin 
August 1917 seizure of arms from McAlister Memorial Hall belonging to Ballycastle National 
Volunteers. 

November 1917 
Constable Robert Turkington No. 1 barracks transferred to No. 2 barracks and Constable Smyth from 
Armoy to No. 1. This shows that as late as November 1917 the second barracks were operating, 
however by January 1918 they were no longer.
Constable Robert Turkington 66,334
Robert Turkington was born Derryloiste County Armagh 22nd May 1888. He was the son of farmer 
John Turkington and Mary Jane Cordner.
He joined the RIC 24th January 1912 having been recommended by District Inspector Joseph Ryan
who was stationed at Lurgan.
Robert was sent to County Antrim 1st August 1912 and appears to have been posted to Martinstown. 
By January 1914 he was stationed in Ballymena and probably at the Harryville barracks. In March 
1915 he was transferred from Harryville to Lisburn and was noted there in the Smithfield barracks in 
the Nominal Returns for 1916 and 1917.
His time in Ballycastle must have been quite short as he was not mentioned in the 1917 Nominal 
Return for Ballycastle was by January 1918 at Crumlin.
He was transferred to Belfast 15th August 1918 and was noted at Springfield Road in January 1919
and 1920. By January 1921 he was stationed at Lisburn Road barracks.
According to his service record Robert was married 27th February 1921. However his wedding 
certificate states it was 8th February. He married Sarah Matchett of 9 Symons Street Belfast. Sarah 
was the daughter of Thomas Matchett was from Derrykeevan County Armagh.
Robert was disbanded 20th May 1922. The address on his pension record was Derryloiste, Esky,
Lurgan County Armagh.
Constable David Smith 67,363
David Smith was born Poles County Cavan 11th September 1893. He was the son of farmer Robert 
Smith and Mary Anne Martin He joined the RIC 1st July 1913 on the recommendation of District 
Inspector White.
He was posted to County Antrim 20th January 1914. By January 1916 he was stationed Cloughmills
and by December 1917 Ballycastle. He then remained in Ballycastle until early 1921 when he was 
posted to Loughguile which was not long after burned by the IRA. He made a claim for damages of 
£24.
David then appears to have been moved not far off to Corkey where he was noted in April 1922. The 
following month he was disbanded on 31st May 1922. He was promoted to Sergeant by July 1922 at 
Corkey on transferring to the RUC. On his pension record his address was Corkey County Antrim. 
Corkey barracks were vacated by RUC at the end of September 1922.
David then served in Ballycastle by at least August 1923. In the newspapers he was recorded often as 
Smyth (see Edward Molloy above).
In October 1929 David married Matilda Mary Cooper daughter of the late Sergeant George N Cooper 
and Margaret Cooper RIC of Glengariff County Cork. The wedding took place at St Mary Magdalen 
Church Donegall Pass Belfast. George Nolan Cooper 44,770 was born County Wexford, son of Head 
Constable George Cooper 2880. He joined 8th September 1879 serving mostly in County Cork. 
George died 24th January 1919 of heart disease aged 50.
July 1943 David Smith was transferred to Richhill County Armagh. He retired in October 1950 after 
37 years.
Following the disestablishment of the North Street barracks the staffing levels returned to normal.

January 1918
One sergeant four constables
Sergeant Patrick Brannigan 56,093 (as above)
Constable George Browne 65,534 (as above)
Constable John James Kelly 66,075

John Kelly was born 5th June 1890 Lisgorman County Leitrim. He was the son of farmer and relieving 
officer Hugh Kelly and Maria McHugh. He joined the RIC 21st August 1911 on the recommendation of 
District Inspector Francis Ignatius Whyte.
He was posted to County Antrim 27
th February 1912 and appears to have been posted to Ahoghill 
and then Harryville barracks Ballymena. By March 1915 he was at the High Street barracks where he 
remained into 1917.
By January 1918 he was posted to Ballycastle.
March 1920 Sergeant McElhill of Ballymoney and Dermott, Ballymoney, Maguire, Bushmills and Kelly 
of Ballycastle are at present on temporary duty in County Tipperary.
John resigned 31st October 1920 “to better his position.”
In May 1924 there is mention of a Constable John J Kelly of the Detective Branch of the Dublin 
Metropolitan Police being transferred to S Division. It is not apparent if this was the same man as 
there are no DMP records which match.
Constable Richard Magee 59,305
Richard Magee was born 6th January 1874 Portnaquin County Cavan. He was the son of farmer John 
Magee and Margaret Brady. He joined the police 23rd January 1900 on the recommendation of 
District Inspector Miller. He was employed as a secretary prior to joining.
He was posted to County Antrim 9
th June 1900. At the time of the 1901 census he was stationed at 
Ballintoy. By December 1905 he was stationed at Carnlough.
At the time of the 1911 census Richard had moved to Dervock where remained until around 
December 1917 when he was transferred to Ballycastle. Richard’s stay in Ballycastle was short as by 
March 1918 he was in Armoy.
On 1st October 1920 he was promoted to Sergeant and was sent to Smithfield joint station in 
Lisburn. Richard appears by February 1921 to have been stationed at Loughguile at the time when 
the IRA burned the barracks. Other men at the barracks at the time who subsequently put in claims 
or damage were Constable Nathaniel Dale (64,968 who was moved to Cloughmills and whose 
pension record placed him in the Dunloy area*), Constable David Smith (67,363 as below) and 
Special Constable Norman Jefferson (possibly originally from Antrim Road Lisburn according to 1901 
census).
By May 1921 Richard was back in the Ballymoney area and by September 1921 he was stationed in 
Portrush. Richard was disbanded 30th May 1922. The address on his pension record was Portnaquin, 
Killeshandra, County Cavan.
*Nathaniel Dale died 23rd April 1954 at Portrush however he was living at 25 Charlotte Street 
Ballymoney. In 1924 he was living at Killane Ahoghill, in 1935 he was selling by auction at bungalow 
at Brocklamont Ballymena,1936 he was living at Fairview Cullybackey, in 1940 he was letting land at 
Ballyclose Cullybackey. 
Constable David Smith 67,363 (as above)

January 1919
One sergeant four constables
Sergeant Patrick Brannigan 56,093 (as above)
Constable George Browne 65,534 (as above)
Constable John Carter 57,261

John Carter was born in County Leitrim 1867/1868. He joined the RIC 25th October 1895 on the 
recommendation of District Inspector Harold Edmund Henderson.
He was posted to County Cavan 3rd April 1896. By 1901 he was stationed at Killeshandra. In January 
1910 he was serving at Crossdoney Cavan
In July 1910 transferred to County Antrim however his service record does not reflect this. It was 
mentioned in the press. By March 1911 he was stationed at Loughguile. His service record states 
that on 26th June 1912 he was married however there is no satisfactory record.
By August 1912 he transferred to Armoy where he remained until March 1918 when he transferred 
to Ballycastle in a swap with Constable Richard Magee 59,305 as previously mentioned.
John then remained in January Ballycastle. John was pensioned 1st February 1921. John may have 
become the foreman of the Ballycastle Waterworks having previously been overseer of the water 
extension works in 1925. If this was John then he had an address at Castle Street Ballycastle.
Constable John J Kelly 66,075 (as above)
Constable David Smith 67,363 (as above)
Sergeant Michael Carr O’Boyce 59,163

Michael O’Boyce was born Drumany County Donegal 28th April 1877 and was the son of National 
School teacher John Clinton O’Boyce. He joined the RIC 2nd October 1899 on the recommendation of 
District Inspector Quinn. He had been a teacher before joining.
His father John went on to find fame as a Gaelic poet and scholar and was a pioneer of the Gaelic 
League in Donegal. John had been the principal of Fanad National School for nearly 50 years and had 
studied the Irish language for over forty. It was noted in his obituary in 1935 that during the years of 
the “Irish struggle he was in constant communication with all the leaders of the party and was 
visited in his home by Roger Casement.” The family home was noted as being ‘Ardnagreine’ 
Portsalon. Casement had visited John between and 1904 and 1906. Of note Casement had family
from near Ballycastle and had been a regular visitor. Amongst the mourners at his funeral were 
noted two ex-RIC, John Kenny former sergeant of Letterkenny, and James Hogan (57,283) of 
Killyconnell Glebe, Kilmacrenan. 
Michael was posted to County Fermanagh 1st May 1900. On 15th October 1901 he was transferred to 
County Londonderry. 
He resigned 10th April 1902 to enter other employment, however was reappointed 17th April 1906 
and may have been sent to County Mayo, however his record is unclear. The other employment is 
also unclear, however it is possible that Michael was involved in the setting up of Gaelic schools in 
Donegal along with his father. There is a mention of Michael operating as a poll clerk for the 
Ramelton area in the local government elections in May 1905 with his address being Drumany.
On 20th June 1907 he was moved to Carrickmore County Tyrone. He was married to Sara O’Hara on 
23rd October 1913 at Massmount Chapel Donegal. Sara was the daughter of farmer James O’Hara 
and was from Strokestown County Roscommon. Michael was still stationed at Carrickmore.
Michael was then transferred to County Antrim 18th December 1913. In November 1914 he was 
stationed at Glenarm. On 1st May 1917 Michael was promoted to Acting Sergeant and by January 
1918 was in charge of Ballintoy.
He was promoted to Sergeant 1st March 1919 and by September/October 1919 was transferred from 
Ballintoy to Ballycastle in place of Sergeant Brannigan who had been promoted to Head Constable. 
Hugh Sweeney then took over from Michael.
At the end of August 1920 Michael was the only officer on duty when the IRA raided the Ballycastle 
barracks for arms (see below for further details).
On 28th October 1920 Michael was reduced to Constable and was transferred to County Fermanagh 
on 17th December 1920. It is not recorded as to why he was reduced in rank. He resigned the 
following day as he was “dissatisfied with service.”
In 1923 Michael was appointed Court Clerk for Portsalon County Donegal. The following year he was 
appointed as Court Clerk at Letterkenny. He held a similar position at Ramelton and 
Newtowncunningham also. 
In March 1939 it was reported in the Derry Journal that a German named Walter Mosbauer who was 
touring Donegal was staying with Michael at Port Road Letterkenny. Mosbauer had previously been 
in Belfast, Dublin and Derry. Alderman James McCourt of Derry had written a letter of introduction 
which was presented to Michael. Mosbauer regaled Michael with stories of Hitler’s “triumphial 
entry” in the Sudatenland where he was from. He is reported to have been a member of the Hitler 
Youth and compared “the situation in the Six Counties” as an “almost exact parallel of the Sudaten 
territory prior to Hitler’s coming.”
He retired at the end of April 1947. It was noted that his son Germain had carried out the duties at 
Letterkenny recently before the retirement.
At the time of his original appointment it was noted in the Derry Journal that 
at the time of the Black and Tan terror he was sergeant of the RIC at Ballycastle, County 
Antrim; but rather than act as his fellow countrymen’s oppressor he left the Force without a 
pension, though at the time he had dependant on him a wife and a family of small children. 
His appointment to the present post will, therefore, gives satisfaction to every one who 
appreciates courage and disinterested patriotism, and who considers that the nation owes a 
debt to those who risked everything in her service.
It is therefore possible given Michael’s connections to Casement and the Gaelic revival etc his 
sympathies had lain with the Lynn’s and the operations of the IRA in Ballycastle. Therefore he may 
have facilitated the raid on the barracks in 1920 which may have led to the reduction in rank and 
pushed him towards his departure from the force. An account of what occurred is below.
Constable William Lancelot Marshall Barry 63,885
William Barry was born 12 Lawnbrook Avenue Belfast 29th December 1887. He was the son of RIC 
Sergeant David John Barry, 38,174, and Eliza Jane Hume. David was the son of another RIC man 
David Barry 2758. In 1901 the Barry family were living on the Springfield Road Belfast. David Barry 
was retired from the RIC and was working as an Inspector for the NSPCC. His father David was also 
living in Belfast. In 1901 he was living at Dover Street and in 1911 at Glanworth Street with his son 
Marshall and family and daughter Elizabeth.
William joined the police 15th June 1908 having been recommended by District Inspector John 
Charles Milling. Milling was later made a Resident Magistrate and murdered at home at Westport
30th March 1919.
William was posted to County Antrim 12th January 1909 and appears to have been stationed at 
Loughguile where was noted in 1911. By September 1912 William had been moved to Carnlough and 
was then sent to Lisburn.
He was stationed at Smithfield, Lisburn until the end of 1919 when he was moved to Ballycastle. A 
Constable Barry was noted in Ballycastle in November 1919. 
At that time it was mentioned that a number of young men had been for the previous three years 
using a wall and ground beside the police barracks for playing handball. Due to objections a meeting 
was held in the courthouse on Castle Street. It was agreed to form a club to be called Ballycastle 
Recreation Club (Hand-Ball Section). Rules were drawn up and the following committee were 
appointed:
Rev JM Lynch CC, Dr D Boylan, Messrs HA McAlister, JA McMichael, R McDonnell, MF Quinn, Arthur 
Hunter, Constable Barry. Mr AJ Tumelty of the Belfast Bank was appointed as treasurer and 
secretary. 
It was decided to approach Captain SJ Lyle with a view to getting permission to use one of the walls 
in the market yard and erect a ball alley there. Plans and specifications were made out and the alley 
was built, the wall having been refaced with cement and raised and the floor levelled. It was noted 
that the members of the RIC deserve special notice for their labour in helping to carry out the work.
In September 1920 William was moved to Antrim town.
On 16th July 1921 William was back in Ballycastle on leave. He called to the barracks at 6.10pm and 
spoken to a Constable Tully and arranged to call back at 12.15am. En route to the barracks he met
Mr Patrick McCarry JP of Ballyligg, Ballycastle. Patrick accompanied him as far as the barracks. On 
arriving at the station on Market Street William knocked the window and was challenged by the 
guard who asked who was there. The door was partially opened on a chain and William stepped 
forward believing that his identity had been confirmed. William was practically up against the door 
when an arm appeared from behind the door with a revolver and a shot rang out. William heard Mr 
McCarry shouting “I am shot,” and he ran over and caught him in his arms. Sergeant Henderson 
came from the barracks and helped him carry Patrick into the barrack day-room. William was unable 
to say who fired the shot but confirmed that it was from inside the barracks.
After the shooting present at the barracks were Sergeant Fay and W.C. Henderson, Constable Tully 
and a few more. William recalled a Special Constable who was the guard and at the inquest Samuel 
Steele gave his evidence. He stated that he had only been stationed at Ballycastle from July 1921 and 
was unfamiliar with William. He stated that when the two men had come to the door and has asked 
for Constable Tully he feared that the barracks were under attack and had put his revolver around 
the door and had fired a shot. He stated that he knew Ballycastle barracks had previously been 
attacked in August of 1920. He denied that William had identified himself as a policeman.
The inquest jury found that Steele had intentionally fired at Patrick McCarry without provocation. 
Steele was arrested and a statement was issued by IRA HQ in Dublin “we understand that Special 
Constable Steele has been placed under arrest by the RIC in connection with the shooting of Patrick 
McCarry one of the Republican candidates for Antrim in the general election of 1918.” One of 
Patrick’s brother was local IRA man Frank McCarry. Patrick too was believed to have been an active 
republican having previously joined the Irish Volunteers in 1914 and then the IRA during the War of 
Independence. It is not apparent if Steele was every prosecuted for the shooting. He had previously 
been a soldier and had recently served as a special in Rasharkin County Antrim until being
transferred to Ballycastle three days before the shooting. He had served 20 years in the army and 
had been discharged in 1919 as medically unfit. He may have been from the Bushmills area.
William was disbanded 31st May 1922 and transferred to the RUC. He was promoted to Sergeant and 
in 1926 was serving in Rasharkin. In September of that year he transferred to Ballymoney 
(confusingly in place of another Sergeant Barry who went to Cushendall). In August 1927 he was 
transferred temporarily to Toomebridge, however he was back by November when he was noted as 
taking part in hare coursing locally with his dog “Goat.” In March 1928 he was transferred to Lisburn. 
In January 1931 he may have been transferred into Belfast to the Court Street barracks.

January 1920

One sergeant seven constables
Sergeant Michael Carr O’Boyce 59,163 (as above)
Constable John Bird Aiken 54,993
John Aiken was born Parkhill County Fermanagh 10th March 1870. He was the son of farmer Thomas 
Aiken and Susan McGregor. He joined the RIC 16th April 1891 from County Tyrone and was 
recommended by District Inspector Kelly.
He was posted to County Antrim from 11th May 1892. On 1st April 1895 he sprained his foot. By 1899
he was linked to Portrush. In 1903 he was moved from Portrush to Carnlough and in February 1906 
transferred from Carnlough to Armoy.
By September 1909 he was stationed at Ballintoy. In 1911 he was stationed at Whitehouse outside 
Belfast but was on the opposite side of the county by January 1916 at Millquarter. He had return to 
Ballintoy by the following January and was therefore working with Michael O’Boyce. He then 
followed O’Boyce to Ballycastle by the start of 1920.
At the start of January 1921 John was at Aghalee barracks. John was pensioned 1st November 1921. 
He claimed his pension at Omagh
Constable William Lancelot Marshall Barry 63,885 (as above)
Constable Joseph Boyle 65,755

Joseph Boyle was born County Donegal 9th December 1890. He joined 15th February 1911 and was 
recommended by District Inspector August LeClerc MacDonald who was stationed at Ardara at the 
time.
He initially went to County Antrim 15th September 1911. It is not apparent where Joseph was 
stationed first however he was mentioned in the local press at Carrickfergus from at least May 1913. 
He had received recognition for some unrecorded act on 12rh December 1912, however there is no 
record in the press of anything which could be linked.
The Nominal Returns show that Joseph remained in Carrickfergus until around 1917/1918 when he 
was moved to Millquarter near Toome. He stayed there for a couple of years before being moved to 
Ballycastle by January 1920. By the following year he was in Ballymoney.
On 26th February 1921 Joseph was fined 5 shillings. On 9th May he received a gratuity and left the 
police. His pension record states an address of Middle Dore, Bunbeg, County Donegal dated 2nd
November 1922. A newspaper report from 1950 states a man named Joseph Boyle from Dore was 
charged with an assault, it is not clear if this was the same man.
Constable John Carter 57,261 (as above)
Constable Thomas Doherty 66,645

Thomas Doherty was born Convoy County Donegal 15th April 1889. He was the son of farmer John 
Doherty and Rebecca Coyle. In 1901 the family were living at Convoy and John was employed as a 
baker. By 1911 John was unemployed, Thomas was a wool warper and another son John had 
returned home after service in the Highland Light Infantry. He joined the RIC initially 18th June 1912 
but was discharged by the surgeon two days later as unfit. He was reappointed 3rd February 1913 on 
the recommendation of District Inspector Smyth.
He was sent to County Antrim 12th August 1913. In January 1916 and 1917 he was stationed at 
Dunmurry and by January 1918 at Bushmills. Thomas was moved to Ballycastle by January 1920 but 
by the following year was at Ballyclare
Thomas was disbanded 25th May 1922. The address on his pension record was Convoy, Donegal.
Constable John James Kelly 66,075 (as above)
Constable David Smith 67,363 (as above)
In March 1920 Constables John Aiken and Thomas Doherty were noted as having been on salvage 
duty on Rathlin. 
Constable Mathew Tully 55,874
Mathew Tully was born County Roscommon 1871. He joined the police 16th June 1893 having been 
recommended by District Inspector John Bedford Russell Cameron. Cameron was based at 
Strokestown at the time of recommendation but had moved onto Adare County Limerick 1st June 
1893.
He was posted initially to County Donegal 23rd February 1894. He was then transferred to Belfast 
26th February 1898 and at the time of the 1901 census was at Duncairn Street Barracks Belfast.
Matthew was transferred to County Tyrone 6th August 1907 and may have been stationed at 
Stewartstown. He received an unfavourable record 4th September 1907. He was then sent to County 
Antrim 7th April 1908 and by July 1909 was noted in Ballymena. By January 1910 Matthew was 
recorded in the Nominal Returns at High Street Ballymena.
In February 1914 transferred to Whitehead on his own request. In court In Ballymena it was 
mentioned that he could not have been transferred to a better station as it was the “pet station of 
County Antrim,” and that there was “not very much business associated with it except in the 
summer months.”
Matthew remained at Whitehead until some point 1919 as he was noted as being at Glenarm by 
January 1920. However by April 1920 he was in Ballycastle. At that time he was noted as working 
with Sergeant O’Boyce and Constables Cross, Smith and Carter.
Disbanded 18th May 1922. The address on his pension record was 3 Eglinton Street, Belfast.
The Constable Cross referred to was Francis Cross 58,525. 
Francis was born County Wicklow 1878 son of farmer Francis Cross. He joined the RIC 15th November 
1898 having been recommended by District Inspector Supple. He posted to County Louth 16th May 
1899.
He was transferred to Belfast 24th June 1905. He was then transferred to County Antrim 6th August 
1907 and was awarded an unfavourable record 5th September 1907.
Francis married Martha Caulfield daughter of former sergeant John Caulfield of Broughshane on 7
th
July 1909. Francis was stationed at Ballymena at the time. A witness was William J McKinney.
By January 1910 he was stationed at Rasharkin. By 26th August 1910 she was stationed at 
Broughshane were son Francis Ernest was born. Francis remained in Broughshane until around 1918.
In the meantime a number of further children were born there, 18th December 1911 daughter Anna 
Martha Caulfield; 28th February 1914 son John Caulfield and 22nd May 1918 daughter Mary Eveline.
He was promoted to Sergeant 1st April 1920 after being in charge of Armoy for around three years. 
He appears to have remained in Armoy. He was disbanded 1st June 1922, registered for the RUC and 
withdrew again the same day. The address on his pension record was Armoy.
Francis’ father-in-law John Caulfield was originally from the Ballymena area and was probably a 
native of Broughshane born around 1835. He was the son of farmer James Caulfield. He joined the 
police 13th November 1855 having been recommended by County Inspector Williams who was based 
in Ballymena. John had the registered number 20,298. He married Anne O’Neill at Jonesboro County 
Armagh 13th December 1881. Anne was from County Louth. They had the following children, Sarah 
Jane Caulfield born 27th September 1884 at Dunsany County Meath, Martha Caulfield 30th
January 1887 born at Broughshane and John Charles Caulfield 8th July 1890 also born at Broughshane.
On 21st December 1885 John retired and claimed his pension at Ballymena. John was living in 
Broughshane in 1901. He died 19th February 1908 and his daughter Martha was present at his death. 
IRA raid on Ballycastle Barracks August 1920
According to the account of IRA Captain Liam McMullen, as previously referenced, the organisation 
for the emergence of physical force republicanism began in Ballycastle at the time in the split in the 
Volunteers. This saw the formation of a Sinn Fein club involving men like Stephen Clarke and solicitor 
Louis J Walsh. A newspaper report from June 1917 reported on the club’s second meeting where 
Stephen Clarke took the chair with Walsh and William Scally present. McMullen stated that there 
were about twenty men “with extreme views.” In August 1918 a newspaper report of another
meeting of the Ballycastle Sinn Fein club noted Louis J Walsh as chairman and Frank McCarry and 
Alexander Butler in attendance.
During the First World War their activities were mainly making preparations for local government 
elections. In addition the war allowed organisation against the “conscription menace”. In 1918 Louis 
J Walsh organised a rally where 2-3,000 people were reported to have gathered in the Diamond. 
What was notable was that the Independent Orange Lodge from Moyarget took a leading part. The 
master of the lodge, John Smyth of Cloughanmurry, acted as chairman for the meeting. The 
Moyarget band had joined up with the republican pipe band and paraded together through the 
town. McMullen stated that due to this the Orangemen were never bitter towards the Republicans 
after this, although he went on to say that at the local elections a group of young Orangemen had 
attacked Louis J Walsh.
In 1919 a Volunteer company was formed by Belfast man Paddy MacLogan. Twenty five men in 
Ballycastle signed up. Two other companies were formed in Glenravel and Loughguile. After the 
initial organisation was completed the headquarters were moved to the townland of Carey outside 
of Ballycastle town. In the Ballycastle company McMullen was made a captain, mechanic William J 
Lynn was officer commanding and Frank McCarry was an officer. Frank was the brother of JP Patrick 
McCarry who was to be shot the following year outside the barracks (see William Barry above).
18th August 1920 was regatta day at Ballintoy which saw the influx of a large number of people to 
the small village. A row broke out at the regatta, possibly orchestrated deliberately, which caused all 
the available local police to be drawn in. This would have left only one man, the barrack orderly, in 
the station on Market Street. According to McMullen six men went to the barracks however there 
was no answer to the door.
McMullen recalled that it was then decided that another attempt was to be made by other means
and so a large scale sports meeting was arranged outside the town. It is possible that this had 
already been arranged given the short available timeframe, however McMullen does not allude to 
this. The sports field was about three quarters of a mile from the barracks. 
The Volunteers from Loughguile and Glenravel were brought in specially as they were unknown in 
the town. The police had also drafted in extra men according to McMullen which suggests that the 
sports meeting was known about well before the aborted attempt the previous day. McMullen 
stated that the RIC’s reason for bringing in the extra men was that the police viewed those involved 
as being “extreme in politics and dangerous.”
While the RIC men were away to the sports field the barracks would again by only staffed by the 
orderly who was there to permit access and deal with the public. Usually this would have been a 
constable, however on 19th August 1920 it was Sergeant Michael O’Boyce (as above). There is no 
explanation as to why O’Boyce was performing this role. One suggestion as outlined previously was
that O’Boyce had Republican sympathies and was complicit in the planning of the raid.
McMullen states that William Lynn, who lived and worked on Market Street not far from the 
barracks, called to the station which was opened by the orderly (O’Boyce) with whom he spoke for 
ten minutes. Two men from Loughguile then held up Lynn and the RIC man to deflect suspicion from 
Lynn.
Contemporary newspaper reports state that Sergeant O’Boyce was confronted by around 20 armed 
men and placed against a wall. Two constables inside covered by revolvers while all rifles and 
ammunition were seized. McMullen did not mention any other police being present. Rooms in the 
barracks were saturated in petrol and the building was set on fire. Other reports state that rifles, 
ammunition, hand grenades, and Verey lights were taken and that four men initially arrived in motor 
car followed by around fifteen. The reports also stated that the IRA were unable to access some of 
the rooms and the men forced O’Boyce at gunpoint to give them access.
As stated all reports agree that an attempt was made to set the barracks on fire and that papers and 
uniforms were piled up in the middle of the floor and set alight. It was also noted that the IRA had 
employed delaying tactics be holding up traffic to frustrate the police who were trying to the return 
to the barracks. McMullen recalled that two men armed with rifles went to the sports field and sent 
a young boy to tell the police the barracks were being raided. When the police and others came 
down the road the two men held them up causing the delay. Later however police were able to
re-enter the barracks and brought the flames under control.
Unfortunately for a number of the police a lot of the uniforms burned belonged to the men who 
were from various barracks brought in for duty at the sports event. It was a tactic for the police to 
send in men in plain clothes to mix with the crowds. The result was many men lost their uniforms 
and according to McMullen were unable to leave their barracks for some time.
The stolen property was spirited away in cars and taken to a temporary dump on a mountain. They 
were later taken to an arms dump in a cave on the point of Fairhead.
Subsequent searches in Belfast in September at Carrick Hill found items believed to from the raid.
In June 1921 the Inspector General put in a claim with Antrim County Council for £217 6s 11d for 
damages connected to the raid. The application was rejected as it had not been served within 7 days 
of the raid and the application had not given sufficient notice.
In March 1922 William James Lynn and Patrick Lynn motor mechanics of Market Street were charged 
with possession of 4 rounds of revolver ammunition, 2 sporting cartridges, 2lb gelignite, 22 small 
rolls of gelignite and 8 detonators. Also 2 sword bayonets and scabbards and 1 foresight protector. It 
was stated that one of the sword bayonets was identified as being one stolen from Ballycastle 
barracks and belonged to Sergeant Michael O’Boyce. William received 6 months with hard labour 
and Patrick was fined £10 or three months. The Resident Magistrates at the case was former RIC 
officer Hume Riversdale Jones.
A number of local IRA Volunteers later gave their accounts as McMullen had of their activities and 
confirmed their part in the raid. They were, James McCaughan as a look out, Frank McCarry stated 
he had organised a sporting event as a distraction, Neal McKernan of Turnaroan, Henry McKiernan 
of Turnaroan, John Lynn, John McNeill of Ballyvoy as look out and Patrick Butler.
​
Picture
Lynn’s garage Market Street
The attacks on Torr Head Coastguard Station
Picture
Liam McMullen recalled that it was learned that Torr Head Coastguard station was to be closed and 
the men occupying it were to be sent back to England. The station had been a war signal station and 
was one of the most important in Ireland. It was decided that the station was to be attacked for 
arms and the date set was 13th September 1920.
The entirety of the Ballycastle Volunteers went. The station was made up of five terraced houses. 
Each house was separate on the ground floor but up the stairs there were connecting doors. Prior to 
the attack the IRA cut the telegraph wires so contact could not be made with the barracks in 
Ballycastle or elsewhere.
McMullen reports that when they rapped the doors no resistance was offered by the occupants. The 
IRA were shown where the arms were and a number of Webley revolvers, ammunition and Verey 
lights were seized. The station had been manned by an officer and five men. 
A contemporary newspaper report for 16th September 1920 stated that on the previous day three 
military lorries with about forty soldiers arrived in Ballycastle. They carried out raids at the houses 
of Alexander Butler – Sinn Fein Headquarters (Butler was arrested and charged in January 1921 for a 
raid on the mail at Killagan. He was noted as living on Anne Street. In March he was sentenced to 18 
months at a court martial in Belfast for having in his home ballot papers in aid of Casement Sinn Fen 
club and a membership card for the Irish Volunteers).
Henry McClements (publican of Anne Street whose daughter married Patrick Keaveney)
Stephen Clarke – Irish Toy Industry
William Scally
Lynn Bros., motor garage
No arms were found during the raids - however at Lynn’s three cars were dismantled and permits 
were taken.
In November 1920 following a rumour that the RIC Auxiliary Division were to take possession of the 
abandoned station a decision was made to destroy the building. A dance was organised at Carey 
which again drew in the RIC and as stated by McMullen provided an alibi for a number of the 
Volunteers. The station was set on fire and destroyed on 6th November 1920. The remains are as in 
the above picture.
Constable William Charles Thorpe 73,664
William Thorpe was born 19th January 1891 Ventnor Isle of Wight, Hampshire England. He was the 
son of hotel porter William Chapman Thorpe and lived at 213 South Grove Road Ventnor. He joined 
after demobilisation from the army at the recruiting office at Ventnor. His starting date was 1st
October 1920. William had either been in the Coldstream Guards or the Army Cyclist Corps
He was posted to County Antrim 16th October 1920 and was noted in the Nominal Return for 
Ballycastle in January 1921. It is likely he was sent straight to Ballycastle.
William was disbanded 31st May 1922 and he then joined the RUC and was noted at Railway Street 
Lisburn on his pension record.
In 1927 William married Dorothy Catherine Vernon at Swadlincote, Derbyshire.
In June 1929 William was working at the County Inspector’s office at Railway Street Lisburn as the 
assistant clerk. It was noted that he resigned to take up a position with the White Start shipping line.
In 1939 William was back living on the Isle of Wight at Rosecliffe Court, Sandown-Shanklin and was a 
general labourer. His wife Dorothy was working as a chambermaid.
Sergeant William Campbell Henderson 56,315
William Henderson was born 5th September 1872 Lisnaragh/Lisnarrow between Donemana and 
Plumbridge. He was the son of farmer David Henderson and Fanny Jack. David and Fanny had 
married at Donemana Presbyterian Church 26th December 1867.
William joined 1st February 1894 on the recommendation of District Inspector Henry Donati Tyacke
who was based at Strabane. Tyacke was later to become an Assistant Inspector General.
He was posted to County Kilkenny 15th September 1894. William was transferred to County Donegal 
1st April 1895. On 21st May 1897 he married Matilda “Tillie” Jane Tees daughter of farmer William 
Tees of Ballinafad. At the time William was stationed at Churchill. Of note his service record does not 
record his marriage until 14th February 1901.
On 13th November 1898 William Tease Morrison Henderson was born Garrowearry County Donegal. 
William was stationed at Tullybeg. On 28th November 1899 son David was born at Killylastin. William 
was stationed at Tullybeg. David died 9th June 1900 at Killylastin of diarrhoea. 
William was moved to Londonderry 19th April 1900. At the time of the 1901 census he was living at 
De Burgh Square Londonderry with his wife, brother Andrew and sister in law Carolina Annette Tees.
Their child William was living with William’s parents at Loughash near Plumbridge.
A daughter Rita Henderson was born 1901 County Tyrone. On 12th October 1902 son Robert 
Alexander Henderson born at 1 De Burgh Square Londonderry. He was followed on 24th April 1904 
by Herbert Leo Henderson born 1 De Burgh Square Londonderry.
The family moved two doors up and on 12th June 1905 daughter Lilian Caroline Anetta Henderson 
was born at 5 De Burgh Square Londonderry. On 24th August 1906 another daughter Annie Peoples 
Tees Henderson was born at the same address.
The family moved again, this time to 17 Argyle Terrace where on 27th June 1909 daughter Annie died 
of enteritis just short of her third birthday. They were noted there at the time of the 1911 census.
The Nominal Returns have William stationed at Victoria barracks Londonderry from 1910 until he 
was posted to County Antrim 1st November 1917. He appears to have been sent to Broughshane. By 
January 1920 he was stationed at Aghalee.
On 1st May 1920 he was promoted to Sergeant. By at least November 1920 he was stationed at 
Ballycastle (he may have been a replacement for Sergeant O’Boyce). In July 1921 William was on 
duty when Patrick McCarry was shot by Special Constable Steele as previously described.
He was disbanded 31st May 1922 and then joined the RUC. IRA Liam McMullen recalled that after he 
was arrested by members of the Ulster Special Constabulary he was bundled into a truck and taken 
to their base at Ballycastle Workhouse. He recalled that the men were drunk and had threatened to 
throw him out of the truck and shoot him. McMullen states that Sergeant Henderson heard about 
this and intervened and “forbade the shooting.”
William remained in Ballycastle until around June 1923 when he was transferred back to 
Londonderry. On 13th October 1923 at the Antrim Arms in Ballycastle he was received by a 
committee consisting of some of the members of the Urban District Council and J.P’s. He was 
presented with a case of Treasury notes and a list of the subscribers and was thanked for his service 
in Ballycastle.
William retired from the RUC at the end of July 1925 at Londonderry due to ill health.
15th April 1939 the death of Caroline A.M. Henderson wife of R.A. Henderson, Northern Bank, 
Ballybay was noted in the newspaper. She died at Lawrence Hill Nursing Home in Londonderry. The 
funeral was from 52 Marlborough Street where William was living. Robert and Caroline had only 
married on 16th March 1931 and at the time both were bank clerks. Caroline was under age at the 
time. She appears to have been some form of relative given her full name was Caroline Annetta May 
Tees which was similar to that of Robert’s aunt who had been living with his parents in 1901. 
Caroline’s father was Alexander Tees on the wedding certificate which appears to have been 
Robert’s mother’s brother.
William died 2nd January 1952 at 52 Marlborough Street Londonderry. Probate was paid to William S 
Henderson clerk of petty sessions and William T.M. Henderson railway clerk.
Sergeant Patrick Michael Fay 58,108
Patrick Fay was born 31st August 1878 at Killorglin County Kerry. He was the son of Sub Constable
(later Sergeant) Thomas Fay 32,334 and Hanora O’Neill. Thomas had two other sons in the police 
John Francis Fay 56,732 and William Francis Fay 60,520. Thomas may also have been the son of John 
Fay 7925.
Patrick joined the police 1st March 1898 on the recommendation of District Inspector Patrick 
Markham.
He first served County Clare from 15th July 1898. He was transferred to the Reserve 20th December 
1899, followed by a move to the Reserve in Kildare 15th July 1901 and then the Reserve at the Depot 
26th April 1902.
On 10th September 1903 Patrick was fined 20 shillings, warned and transferred. He was sent to 
County Cork 16th September. This related to an alleged breach of discipline at Ballyshannon 
Crossroads on the night of the Gordon Bennett Motor Race. Four others were dismissed, Constables 
Martin Corbett; Edward Roche; George H Robinson and John H Godfrey. A Constable Richard 
Godfrey was also involved. It appears that they were absent from their barracks and went drinking.
While in Cork he was fined 10 shillings 4th January 1905, 
On 4th November 1905 Patrick married Bridget Foley daughter of farmer Morgan Foley from 
Ballynamona. Patrick was stationed at Adrigole. A witness was Jeremiah Griffin who may have been 
47,893 who was dismissed in 1902.
He was fined 20 shillings 13th May 1908 and cautioned 30th April 1912. In this period Patrick was 
stationed at Dunmanway. In the 1911 census Patrick and Bridget were living at Main Street 
Dunmanway.
The Nominal Returns places Patrick in January 1916 and 1917 at Rosscarbery and then in January 
1918 and 1920 Timoleague. According to his record Patrick was awarded the Constabulary Medal 
16th March 1919 although there is little available information for what it was awarded.
He was transferred to County Antrim 29th May 1920 and was posted to Dunmurry. Patrick was 
promoted to Sergeant 1st December 1920 and appears to have gone shortly after this to Ballycastle.
By August 1921 Patrick was stationed at Portglenone. In October 1921 it was noted in the 
newspaper that Patrick was the recipient of the King’s Medal from the Lord Lieutenant for gallantry 
and devotion to duty. This may refer to the entry on his service record from March 1919.
He was disbanded 18th May 1922. The address on his pension return was Market Street, Ballycastle. 
There is no mention on the Valuation Revision records for Patrick on Market Street in this period, so 
it is difficult to say where he was living.

January 1921
Two sergeants ten constables – staffing levels raised likely due to the attack on the barracks and 
the attacks on Torr Head. 1921 also saw the stationing of Ulster Special Constabulary men in 
Ballycastle who operated from the Workhouse and from the Market Street barracks.
Sergeant Patrick Michael Fay 58,108 (as above)
Sergeant William Campbell Henderson 56,315 (as above)
Constable Thomas Anderson 64,845

Thomas Anderson was born 10th February 1890 at Edenreagh, Glendermott, County Londonderry. He 
was the son of labourer Thomas Anderson and Annie Ritchie. He joined the RIC 1st July 1909 on the 
recommendation of District Inspector Michael Horgan. He had been employed as a quarryman 
before joining. Michael Horgan was stationed at Limavady at the time Thomas Joined, however he 
had only been posted to Limavady from February 1909.
On 3rd February 1910 Thomas was posted to County Antrim and was noted at Kells in January 1911
and at the time of the census that year.
Thomas appears to have remained in Kells until 1915 when he moved to Ballyclare. That year
Thomas was selected for service in the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and enlisted on 23rd November 
1915. It was noted that he was an all-round athlete and great sportsman as well as being a crack 
shot.
On 29th August 1918 Thomas married Edith Halligan daughter of spirit merchant Robert Halligan. 
Robert however was a former RIC man (46,788 as previously mentioned) and had been stationed in 
Kells County Antrim at the same time as Thomas. They were married at St Mary Magdaline Church of 
Ireland, Belfast. Of note both gave the same address of 36 Vernon Street Belfast even though 
Thomas was still serving in the military. His father at this stage was a road contractor. 36 Vernon 
Street was the address of Robert Halligan’s pub which he had taken over in 1914.
Thomas was reappointed after demobilisation on 13th March 1919 and was sent back to County 
Antrim 7th June 1919 and was noted in Ballyclare again in January 1920. Contemporary newspaper 
reports places Constable Anderson in Ballyclare in June 1920. By January 1921 he was stationed at
Ballycastle.
On 1st March 1921 Thomas Anderson was promoted to Sergeant. He was disbanded 31st May 1922
and transferred to the RUC. He possibly went to Dunmurry then to Armoy by July 1923.
Constable William Walter Marwood Ascough 73,654
William Ascough was born 1st November 1886 in Kilburn London. He as the son of Thomas Ascough
and Catherine Dobson. In 1901 his mother was the head of the household and was a charwoman.
He served in the Middlesex Regiment during WW1, however in 1911 he was a Private. He was
married 1st December 1912 to Olive Mills in London. In 1911 Olive was living with her mother and 
siblings at 26 Warden Road London. Of note her brother Henry was a carman which was the same 
occupation William had.
After demobilisation William joined the RIC 1st October 1920 and was posted to County Antrim 16th
October 1920 and was sent to Ballycastle.
William was disbanded 31st May 1922 and joined the RUC and continued serving in Ballycastle.
In 1926 William is recorded in the Valuation Revision records at new properties on the Coleraine 
Road which had been built by the Ministry of Home Affairs Northern Ireland. These are located near 
to the Gospel Hall.
It is unclear from the Valuation records which of the two houses Ascough lived in.
Picture
Picture
In 1929 William came 6th in the ex-servicemen’s class of the Beautiful Antrim Cottages competiton. 
In that particular class he was required to have not only a good looking house, but also a selection of 
fruit and vegetables in good quality.
In 1930 William was investigated in Ballycastle for being on licensed premises while on duty (see 
Edward Molloy). The following year he was in Rasharkin 1931 and was linked to Loughguile in 1934. 
It is not apparent when he retired.
On 4th December 1940 his son Guardsman William Ascough was accidentally shot while writing a 
letter to his parents. A fellow Irish Guard had picked up a Bren gun which he thought was not loaded 
and had went off. Three rounds had been fired all of which had struck William in the skull. It was 
noted that his parents, William and Olive, lived at Main Street Bushmills. He was aged 19 when he 
died and a member of the 2nd Battalion Irish Guards.
William died 1966.
Constable John Carter 57,261 (as above)
Constable James Doherty 64,355

James Doherty was born 22nd November 1886 Straid, County Donegal. He was the son of farmer 
Philip Doherty and Catherine Duffy. He joined the police 16th September 1908 on the 
recommendation of District Inspector William Henry Yeates.
He was posted to County Antrim 23rd March 1909 and was stationed at Cloughmills. He was
recorded there at the time of the 1911 census and was noted in the press as being there until at 
least March 1913.
By 1916 James was stationed at Larne and the following year was at Cullybackey. Prior January 1920 
James was moved to Portglenone and then before January 1921 to Ballycastle.
James was disbanded 18th May 1922. His pension address was Straid, Clonmany, County Donegal.
Constable Luke Donohue 68,735
Luke Donohoe was born 31st October 1896 Mullyone County Monaghan. He was the son of farmer 
James Donohue and Mary Hanratty. The family were at the same address at the time of the 1901 
and 1911 census returns. He joined the RIC 3rd October 1916 recommended by District Inspector 
Roe.
He was posted to County Kilkenny 6th April 1917 and was noted in January 1918 at Goresbridge. Luke 
was transferred to County Antrim 1st June 1918 and was stationed at Aghalee by January 1919.
Prior to January 1921 he was posted to Ballycastle. In August 1921 Luke was mentioned as 
competing in a friendly competition between Ballycastle Handball Club and the Ballycastle Club 
(established 1919 near the RIC barracks see William Barry above). It was reported in the press that 
the Ballymoney team had been the victors by 3 matches to 1. The details were:
James McLaughlin and James O’Doherty (Ballymoney) beat Constable Donohoe RIC and Jack 
Donnelly (Ballycastle) 21-14, 21-5
J Carter and MF Quinn (Ballycastle) beat Dan O’Connor and James Quigg (Ballymoney) 21-13, 
21-20
John Fines and Robert J Casey (Ballymoney) beat Dr Boylan and Patrick McCambridge 
(Ballycastle) 21-13, 21-13
Robert McLean and James McArthur (Ballymoney) beat Arthur Hunter and Patrick Duffin 
(Ballycastle) 21-5, 21-1
The J Carter referred to is likely to have been Luke’s colleague John Carter. Luke’s playing partner 
may have been blacksmith Jack Donnelly of Ballycastle. Dr Boylan was Daniel Boylan of Market 
Street. Handball was still going in 1922 but there was a hiatus until 1924.
Luke was moved to County Clare 26th November 1921. He was disbanded 31st May 1922 and may 
have been transferred to RUC although his pension record does not fully reflect this.
Constable William McKeon 64,562
William McKeon was born Edgesworthtown County Longford 10th July 1890. He was the son of police 
pensioner Michael McKeon 23,792 and Rose Sharkey. In 1901 the family were living at Aghafin, 
Edgeworthstown. He joined the RIC 14th January 1909 on the recommendation of Head Constable 
Nash who was stationed at Ballymahon.
He was posted to County Galway 20th July 1909. In 1911 he was noted in the census at the barracks 
Rahally, his occupation is noted as “policeman’s son.
He received a favourable record 18th January 1915. He was transferred to County Dublin 1st July 1915
and noted at Finglas prior to January 1916.
William was posted to County Antrim 14th June 1919.
He was married 24th March 1920 to Ellen Costello at Lisvernane. Ellen was the daughter of policeman 
Thomas Costello 39,169. At the time of marriage William was stationed at Glenarm. A witness was 
Patrick Molloy.
By January 1921 William was stationed at Ballycastle. He was sent to the Depot 1st March 1921.
William was disbanded 3rd May 1922 at Gormanstown Camp. The address on his pension was 2 
Mount Pleasant Terrace, Rathmines, Dublin.
Constable David Smith 67,363 (as above)
Constable William Charles Thorpe 73,664 (as above)
Constable Mathew Tully 55,874 (as above)
Constable John H Williams 70,710
John William was born Perry, USA (state unknown), 5th January 1896. He was the son of John Henry 
Williams and Mary. In 1901 they are living in North Monmouthshire Wales. John senior is in a coal 
mine. He served as a soldier in WW1 but also had been employed as a clerk. He was married 13th
September 1915.
John joined the RIC 16th March 1920 and was posted to County Antrim 7th April. He may have been in 
Randalstown around July 1920. He was in Ballycastle by January 1921. He was transferred to Belfast 
1st January 1921 and was posted to Musgrave Street barracks. John was disbanded 31st May 1922.

1922
Henry McAlister 59,015
Henry McAlister was born Bonamargy, Ballycastle, County Antrim 15th July 1879. He was the son of 
farmer Daniel McAlister and Barbara Humphreys. He joined the RIC 15th July 1899 on the 
recommendation of District Inspector Ireland who was based at Ballymoney.
He was posted to Galway 17th January 1900. Henry was transferred to Belfast 27th March 1902. On 
12th August 1904 he was given a 2nd class award and then on 9th November 1904 he received a 2nd class award.
On 20th December 1911 Henry married Annie Margaret Rankin of Aughnaskeagh, Dromara, County 
Down. They married at the Reformed Presbyterian Church Dromara. Annie was the daughter of 
farmer John Rankin. Henry was stationed at College Square Belfast at the time. Notably this marriage 
was not recorded on Henry’s service record.
He received a 3rd class favourable record on 26th October 1914
1915 Henry’s father Daniel died at his home ‘The Warren’ Ballycastle. In the announcement of his 
death in the press it was noted that there were two other sons, Daniel and Patrick.
In January 1916 Henry was stationed at Henry Street Belfast. By the following year he was at College 
Square barracks where he remained. He received a 1st class favourable record and a grant 14th July 

​1917
Henry was promoted to Temporary Sergeant 8th January 1921. On 9
th November 1921 he received a,3rd class favourable record.
He was disbanded 30th April 1922. The address on his pension record was Market Street Ballycastle.
His sister Catherine married Constable Isaiah Fulton McConnell 59,532, as previously mentioned in 
1918.
His brother Patrick died 21st September 1938 at The Warren. Henry was the executor.
The following may be a relative:
Joseph Alexander McAlister 68,673
Joseph McAlister was born 24th April 1893 at Carnsampson near Ballycastle. He was the son of 
farmer Alexander McAlister and Mary Coll. He joined the RIC 1st June 1915.
He was posted to County Armagh 6th November 1915. On 5th December 1919 he was fined £1.
Joseph resigned to better his position on 28th May 1920.

Second IRA attack on Ballycastle Barracks – May 1922
In May 1922 an attempt was made to blow up Ballycastle barracks with a 40lb bomb which was 
foiled by police from Ballymoney. A detail of police came from Ballymoney in a Crossley tender. They 
passed through with no sign of trouble but on their return found that the road was blocked so they 
feared an ambush. At the barracks they found a ladder up to the roof two doors along from the 
barracks. The police saw a man run off and fired after him. A subsequent search located a 40lb bomb 
with a fuse attached at the foot of the ladder.
A few minutes later an attack was made on the police and two bombs were thrown and about 30 
shots fired. During the attack police seized two boxes of grenades, several tins of petrol, two pairs of 
boots, one pair of canvas shoes and a basket full of petrol bombs.
There was a lull for about an hour. Sergeant Andrew Jackson 69,194 who was usually based at 
Mountpottinger Belfast, saw some men and ordered them to stop. They fired two volleys of shots at 
him which struck him in the hand and leg.
Local IRA man James McCaughan later stated that he had been injured in the attack and had been 
taken to Belfast for treatment. He had also taken part in the 1920 raid as a look out. Frank McCarry, 
William Lynn, Neal McKernan, Henry McKiernan, John Lynn, John McNeill Ballyvoy and Patrick Butler 
all later acknowledged their part in the attacks.
On the same night the railway bridge between Killagan and Dunloy was blown up, telegraph wires 
cut and fifty yards of the railway line destroyed.

1935
Joseph Winlock 61,884
Joseph Winlock was born 2
nd September 1886 at Carnbore near Dervock County Antrim. His father 
was farmer David Winlock and mother was Nancy McCallister.
Joseph joined the RIC from Belfast on 1st June 1906 on the recommendation of Head Constable 
Peate. 
He was sent to County Meath 4th December 1906. Joseph was transferred to Belfast 23rd August 
1907. For the majority of his service he was stationed at Musgrave Street. Joseph received two 
favourable records, 8th September 1911 (for courageous conduct) and 17th May 1919.
On 5th October 1915 Joseph married Mary Mollan at Belfast Registrar’s Office. Joseph was stationed 
at Musgrave Street Barracks at the time and Mary was resident at Victoria Homes, Ballysillan Belfast. 
Victoria Homes were children’s homes established for “young girls from homes made miserable by 
poverty, unemployment and abuse of alcohol and to prevent the possibility of them becoming 
prostitutes or involved in other kinds of crime." It is not apparent if Mary was a resident there or 
working there, however no occupation was listed on her marriage certificate. Her father was farmer 
Andrew Mollan and they were from County Monaghan. Witnesses were Constable John Hall 58,119 
who was also stationed at Musgrave Street and Mary Louisa Thompson (possibly a nurse). Joseph’s 
father David died a few weeks later 26th October 1915 at Carnbore.
On 30th January 1918 son Joseph Winlock was born at 21 Toronto Street, Belfast (off the Ravenhill 
Road).
Joseph was disbanded 27th May 1922 in Belfast. His pension record gave his address as 21 Grampian 
Avenue, Strandtown, Belfast (between the Holywood and Upper Newtownards Roads).
Joseph died 24th September 1935 at Dalriada Hospital Ballycastle. His will stated that he was a 
retired RUC Constable. His pension record did not state that he had transferred to the RUC which 
suggests that he joined later. 
His home address at the time of his death was given as Curramoney which is a townland south west 
of Ballycastle town on the Ballinlea Road.

​1940’s

Hume Riversdale Jones
Hume Jones was born 21st June 1866 son of Archdeacon Richard Jones. Between 1887 and 1891 he 
was a tutor of pupils at Trinity College Dublin, having qualified as a barrister. He then joined as a 
cadet officer 17th April 1891 become a District Inspector 3rd June 1891. His first posting outside of the 
Depot was to Killorglin County Kerry 1st December 1891.
10th January 1895 he was posted to Woodford County Galway where he remained until 1st June 
when he was moved again to Killarney County Kerry. On 14th February 1902 Hume was posted to 
Chaffpool County Sligo where he remained until 1st June 1903 when he was moved to Athenry 
County Galway. He was again moved 15th August 1903 to Ardee County Louth.
On 9th September 1903 Hume married Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Phibbs daughter of gentleman, land 
owner and JP, Charles Phibbs of Chaffpool. The wedding appears to have been carried out by Hume’s 
father.
A son Hume Riversdale Jones was born 6th September 1904 at Irish Street Ardee. 15th November 
1905 Hume was moved to Kenmare County Kerry. A second son, Charles Phibbs Jones was born at 
Reemore, Kenmare. Hume remained there until 1st February 1908. He was then moved to Ennis 
County Clare.
Hume was finally posted to Headquarters in Dublin 1
st October 1908 where he was appointed to the 
Crime Special Department. At the time of the 1911 census the family were at Hadden Road, Clontarf, 
Dublin. A third son Edward Warburton Jones, was born 3rd July 1912 at Glenmara, Hadden Road, 
Clontarf, Dublin.
On 19th September 1914 Hume was made a Resident Magistrate. A daughter Elizabeth Maude Jones 
was born at Ardshanbally County Limerick 16th April 1918. In May 1920 Hume was made a RM for 
Dublin and was placed on special duty at Dublin Castle. 
In 1920 Hume was noted as performing duties at special Crimes Courts at Lisburn and Moneymore. 
Over the next 16 years Hume worked in Ballymena, Coleraine, Cookstown, Londonderry, Omagh, 
Antrim and Ballycastle. He retired in 1936.
In December 1936 son Hume Jones married Ruth Babington daughter of (Attorney General) Lord 
Justice A.B. Babington and Lady Babington of Somerton Road Belfast. He as at that time a Captain in 
the 6th Royal Battalion (Scinde) 13th Frontier Force Rifles in India. He was killed in action in 19th
December 1943 in Italy at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. The inscription on his grave reads “killed 
leading the 6 RFF Rifles to the attack on the banks of the Arielli.” At the time of his death it was 
noted that his brothers were Lieutenant Colonel CP Jones M.C. and Captain EW Jones member of the 
Northern Ireland bar. Their sister was serving in the A.T.S.
Picture
Hume jr on the left and his brother Edward to the right
During 1930’s and early 1940’s Hume and Betty were living at Glenwillan Portrush but subsequently 
moved to a house in Ballycastle they also called Glenwillan. He died aged 82 on 5th February 1949, at 
Glenwillan, Rathlin Road, Ballycastle.
Edward Jones went on to be a member of the Northern Ireland parliament, was later knighted, 
became a High Court judge and then Lord Chief Justice for the Appeal Court in Northern Ireland. H 
died in 1993.
Charles Phibbs Jones had a distinguished military career and during WW2 intially served as a brigade 
major for the 127th Infantry Brigade which was part of the British Expeditionary Force sent to France 
and Belgium in 1940. In 1941 he became a general staff officer at GHQ Home Forces. In 1943 he was 
appointed Commander of the Royal Engineers for the Guards Armoured Division. In 1945 he became 
Chief of Staff Malaya Command and the brigadier on the general staff of 30 Corps in North West 
Europe.
After the war, Jones was appointed brigadier on the general staff at Western Command in 1946. He 
then went to the Imperial Defence College in 1947 before being appointed commander 2nd Infantry 
Brigade in 1948. In 1950 he became director of plans at the War Office and in 1951 he went on to 
be general officer commanding 7th Armoured Division, part of British Army of the Rhine. 
He was commandant at the Staff College, Camberley from 1954 to 1956 and then vice attorney 
general at the War Office from 1957 to 1958. He then became director of the Combined Military 
Planning Staff at the Central Treaty Organisation in 1959 and general officer commanding 1 British 
Corps in 1960. He was general officer commanding-in-chief Northern Command from 1962 to 1963, 
when he became Master-General of the Ordnance; he retired in 1967. He was also colonel 
commandant of the Royal Engineers from 1961 to 1972

1949
Henry Ralph Stanley 52,304
Henry Stanley was born Queen’s County (Laois) 1868. He was the son of Inland Revenue officer 
Robert Pattison Stanley. He joined RIC 19th October 1886 from Galway on the recommendation of 
District Inspector Lemon. He was a teacher before he joined although he was only 18 ¾ when he did 
join.
He served Cork from 27th February 1887. Promoted to Acting Sergeant 1st November 1894, then 
Sergeant 1st February 1897.
At the time of the 1901 census Henry was stationed at Grattan Street, Youghgal County Cork.
On 18th December 1909 Henry married school mistress Lucy Jane Corr of North Main Street Youghal. 
Lucy was the daughter of former RIC Sergeant John Benjamin Corr 16,265. Corr died March 1898. In 
1901 Lucy was listed in the census as being a servant at North Main Street. Witnesses to the 
wedding were brother and sister Thomas and Violet Field also of North Main Street. Thomas worked 
as a printer compositor along with his father.
At the time of the 1911 census Henry was still at Grattan Street. Lucy however was living with her 
mother Rebecca at North Main Street.
On 1st September 1913 Henry became a Head Constable and was transferred to County Clare 1st
October.
Henry was pensioned 8th February 1920 and initially claimed his pension at Ballymena.
Lucy Stanley died 22nd March 1949 at The Bungalow, Townparks Ballycastle (this address maybe 17 
Cedar Avenue, Ballycastle). Lucy was buried at Ballycastle Presbyterian Church.
Henry died 18th November 1957 at The Dalriada Hospital Ballycastle. His home address was given at 
The Bungalow Ballycastle.
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