Wexford Rebellion - First Phase

First Phase

The County Wexford United Irishmen organisation had remained relatively intact during the pre-rebellion repression that saw much of the organisation in other counties severely weakened. However, in May 1798, just as the rebellion broke out in County Kildare, the authorities began to move against suspected rebels and arrested Anthony Perry of Inch, an ex-military officer and senior United Irishman. Breaking down in tears, Perry named a number United Irish leaders, including Bagenal Harvey, who were quickly rounded up. In the rising tension news of the rebellion and of a massacre in Dunlavin swept through Wexford and on the night of 26 May, rebels mobilised throughout north county Wexford attacking military and loyalist targets for arms. Next morning they gathered at Oulart Hill and Ballyminaun Hill. At Ballyminaun the rebels were easily crushed but won a significant victory at Oulart Hill led by Father John Murphy and others, annihilating a company of militia sent to destroy them. Next, the rebels moved to Enniscorthy and increased their numbers to about 6,000 men along the way. The rebels achieved victory in Enniscorthy on 28 May and two days later, the rebels were able to take Wexford Town after Colonel Maxwell fled with his militia. The seizure of the county on 30 May closed the first phase of the Wexford Rebellion and increased the rebels numbers to 10,000 men.

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