Smashing of a Mayo home by the Black and Tans

by Auld Stock

TOM Ketterick, Barrack Bridge, Castlebar, spent the final years of his life living with his daughter, Gay Hendry, Ballina.

He came to Castlebar each Thursday afternoon to visit my family. Tom had a wonderful memory and a lifetime association with Castlebar Celtic both as a player and official.

Our conversation mainly centred on soccer and the ups and downs of Castlebar Celtic.

The Kettericks were genuine nationalists and several of Tom’s family played important roles in the fight for freedom.

Tom could vividly recall his family’s little home in Lucan Street being ‘smashed to smithereens’ by the Black and Tans.

His family had good neighbours but they were warned by the Tans their houses would also be wrecked if they came to their assistance.

A neighbour of the Kettericks was Paddy Rainsford, a native of Newport, County Tipperary, who came to Castlebar working on the building of the Church of the Holy Rosary.

Paddy was a noted Irish dancer and promoter of the Irish language and culture. He was trainer of the famous Ballyheane hurling team in the 1930s, winners of several major titles.

Paddy was grandfather of Danno Rainsford, an outstanding player with Castlebar Celtic who has lived for many years in London.