As National Archives release over 3500 files relating to Civil War claims for compensation, explore some Kilkenny claims

Click '>' ARROW above to see the wide variety of items people sought payment for in the aftermath of the Civil War

The Irish Civil War which lasted a mere 11 months from June 28 1922 – May 24 1923 may have been relatively short, but it was extremely divisive.  Families and friendships were sundered as people took opposing sides in the conflict. Damage and destruction by the Anti Treaty or Irregulars led to a flurry of claims for compensation for losses and these were largely dealt with early in 1924 as applications for compensation were submitted to the local county authorities. 

The judge at local sessions assessed all claims and then made a decree which was subsequently considered by the state solicitor, who in Kilkenny was M.J. Crotty. He would then make a report to the Minister of Finance who paid the decreed award with adjustments and conditions if necessary. 

A list of the compensation paid to victims of the conflict by the new Free State Government which was compiled by Michael O’Dwyer for The Old Kilkenny Review regarding Kilkenny City and County, offers a fascinating insight into the type of disruption that the war created in the daily lives of local people. There were claims for items ranging from chocolate  to cows to motor cars with the sums ranging from £5 to £2500. The largest claim was for an entire family who were 'driven from home' and 'evicted' during the conflict and who received £2,500 in compensation. 

Click '>' ARROW above to see the wide variety of items people sought payment for in the aftermath of the Civil War