The Killing of The O'Rahilly

The O’Rahilly (Michael Joseph O’Rahilly), was a leader of the Irish Volunteers and took part in the 1916 Easter Rising.

O'Rahilly fought in the General Post Office with the volunteers until it was no longer possible. With the GPO on fire and surrounded he volunteered to lead a small party of men in search of an escape route. He led a charge along Moore Street but was machine-gunned. The O’Rahilly slumped into a doorway on Moore Street, wounded and bleeding badly he dashed across the road to find shelter in Sackville Lane.

It was reported a British Army ambulance crew found the injured O’Rahilly but were ordered to leave him by the British Officers. The ambulance crew asked about the injured man and were told, ‘he must be someone of importance and the bastards are leaving him there to die of his wounds.'

The O‘Rahilly did die of his wounds but not before he left an incredible message to his wife.

The O'Rahilly letter to his wife Nancy is etched on a relief on Mooore Street today

“Darling Nancy I was shot leading a rush up Moore Street and took refuge in a doorway. While I was there I heard the men pointing out where I was and made a bolt for the laneway I am in now. I got more [than] one bullet I think. Tons and tons of love dearie to you and the boys and to Nell and Anna. It was a good fight anyhow. Please deliver this to Nannie O’ Rahilly, 40 Herbert Park, Dublin. Goodbye Darling.’

The O’Rahilly died on 29th April 1916.