IRL-CAVAN-L Archives

From: "dorothy done" <>
Subject: The Times, May 22, 1794.
Date: Wed, 1 Feb 2006 18:28:11 -0000

The Times, London, May 22, 1794.

DUBLIN, MAY 17.

On Tuesday the 13th instant, a most desperate affray happened at the fair of Kilnaleck, near Cavan. A number of persons, calling themselves Defenders, having come to the fair, declared they would destroy every Scotchman or Presbyterian they should find. They met a Mr. BIGGERS, and having cut and abused him in a shocking manner, some humane people got him from the crowd and concealed him from their fury. Word was immediately sent to Ballyjamesduff and the neighbourhood, when a Mr. BLAKELEY assembled about forty of his neighbours (Protestants and Dissenters) and proceeded on their way to Kilnaleck. They were met by the banditti within one mile of the town, who made a shew of opposition. Mr. BLAKELY, accompanied by some others, went to them, and stated, that they did not come with any hostile intent, but hearing of the treatment Mr. BIGGERS had received, they were determined to bring him home dead or alive, upon which one of the leaders of the party made a stro!
ke with a sword at Mr. BLAKELY'S head, which he defended with a blunderbuss, and had one of his fingers cut off, whereupon the fellow was instantly shot dead; the insurgents immediately called to each other to surround Mr. BLAKELEY'S party, which they attempted to do, but received so smart a reception, that, after a short engagement, they fled, leaving 32 of their companions dead on the spot.


County Cavan Newspaper Transcription Project.

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• The Times, May 22, 1794. by "dorothy done" <>