At this time the 2nd World War or 'Emergency' as it was called in Ireland also had some repercussions on our village. The LDF (Local Defence Force) removed several of the large stones from the second aisle of the bridge opposite the Chapel in preparation for blowing up the bridge, in the event of a German or English invasion. There was a widespread belief that Hitler was about to invade Ireland and use our country as a base in his war with Britain. A concrete billet or lookout post was built and still survives at the entrance to Boylan's farm in Derrygarra. From it there is a clear view of the bridge and the old road leading into the village from Cavan. The local platoon learned how to march and present arms and trained once per week in winter time and every second week in summertime. James Scanlon Snr., who along with Jimmy Mc Entee also from Cavan, organized the local platoon. Platoon members were initially issued with Winchester rifles (American manufacture) which in time were replaced by an older rifle which had been used in the Boer War (approx 1900). Shooting and target practice was carried out in the townland of Ballymacenroe firing into the nearby Farnham hills.
Each member was supplied with heavy, green overcoat, green uniform and brown boots. Anyone who can supply names of local members, please contact us. The L.D.F. later became the F.C.A. which of course is in existence to the present day. Petrol and food were rationed, with a system of ration cards in use. The government introduced compulsory tillage and all farmers had to grow their share of oats, potatoes, etc. There were few if any luxuries available. As a result a black market developed even for ordinary everyday items, like flour, sugar, tea, butter and also whiskey and cigarettes. Smuggling became a feature of life especially along the border, and many profited greatly from it.
Each member was supplied with heavy, green overcoat, green uniform and brown boots. Anyone who can supply names of local members, please contact us. The L.D.F. later became the F.C.A. which of course is in existence to the present day. Petrol and food were rationed, with a system of ration cards in use. The government introduced compulsory tillage and all farmers had to grow their share of oats, potatoes, etc. There were few if any luxuries available. As a result a black market developed even for ordinary everyday items, like flour, sugar, tea, butter and also whiskey and cigarettes. Smuggling became a feature of life especially along the border, and many profited greatly from it.
The Butlersbridge news item here details the obituary of an Uncle of Norby Fitzpatrick from Kilnalack. Colonel Fitzpatrick was a fellow old IRA member with the father of the late Taoiseach Charles J. Haughey and acted as his godfather. (Anglo-Celt Friday, February 23, 1973 page 5)
