Formerly the National Bank building, the Headford Army Barracks housing Free State forces was attacked by Anti-treaty troops who had crossed Lough Corrib in boats from Oughterard and planted mines against the walls. A gun fight ensued, lasting until Free State reinforcements arrived and forced the withdrawal of the Anti-treaty forces. Two Free State soldiers, Sergeant Major M. McCarthy and Volunteer Lyons, were killed and five others injured. Two Anti-treaty soldiers also lost their lives, John Higgins of Ballytrasna there during the battle, and Daniel McCormack of Laskeevy, Tuam, would die later of his wounds.
Although damaged in the attack, the building survived and today houses offices.
Comments about this page
Do you know the names of the 5 injured Free State soldiers?
There’s mention of a Harry Burke of Tuam in the reporting in the Connacht Tribune, but his is the only name given there among the Free State soldiers injured.
Add a comment about this page