James Connolly Heron (b. 1949)

Track 1: James Connolly Heron is a great-grandson of James Connolly. His grandmother was Ina Connolly, James Connolly’s daughter, who married Archie Heron. He describes the importance to him of his family history, his great-grandfather’s initial involvement in republicanism and his grandmother’s regret at not being allowed to visit her father while he was awaiting execution in Kilmainham Jail after the 1916 Rising. Track 2: The relationship between James Connolly and P. H. Pearse is discussed, as is the coming together of all the individual groups involved in the Rising. Connolly’s input in the writing of the 1916 Proclamation, and the handing over of his command to a young Volunteer, Seán McLoughlin, towards the end of Easter Week, are also discussed. Track 3: Contains a description of the sacrifices endured by the Connolly family following the Rising, and the support offered by their friends and neighbours. Track 4: James Connolly Heron discusses the refusal of a State pension by his grandfather Archie Heron, who was a bodyguard to Michael Collins during the War of Independence. Track 5: Contains a description of James Connolly the man – his moods, his demeanour and mannerisms. Track 6: The women in the Connolly family down through the generations are recalled, and the family memorabilia is discussed. Track 7: Nora Connolly, James Connolly Heron’s grandaunt, is recalled. She remained a staunch republican throughout her life. She was imprisoned in Kilmainham during the Civil War in 1923 and she was later involved in the restoration of the Jail. James Connolly Heron shares his memories of his grandmother, Ina, and he stresses his belief that her silence regarding her father’s fate is evidence of the huge hurt still felt within the Connolly family.