1825, Charges Brought Against Baronial Constables P. Caulfield, John McDonald of Ballydehob, West Cork over their Sectarian Taunting of Thomas Swanton For He Having Changed Religon.
At one stage Ballydehob was known as Swantonstown.
The piece is interesting as it confirms the low regard of the pre RIC policing system, the low states and calibre of he personnel. It is interesting that the aggrieved party had enough confidence in the Petty Session to bring a charge. Note the reported comments of the Magistrates over aggravating Religious animosity.
Shorty after the RIC came into being and apart from their role as Protector of the British Interest in Ireland they gave impartial service to the community.
West Cork History 
A moment in history captured – a casual reader of this piece might not realise that Caholics formed the vast majority of the population.
LikeLike