This rare and possibly unique photograph of an RIC Constable employed on Census duty was originally taken as a practical joke.
The photo shows my grandfather, Constable Peter McGoldrick, somewhere in the Ballybay district. It was taken surreptiously by one of his colleagues and the photo then sent as a postcard to his fiancee; who was the Station Master's daughter in Ballybay at that time. Employed as a Census Enumerator, it can be clearly seen that he is holding a clipboard of forms and a blackthorn walking stick. There was no need to wear a revolver at that time and the only other accoutrements carried were the handcuffs, baton and whistle.
The couple were married in September 1911 in Ballybay. His wife treasured this photograph, and Peter himself considered his Ballybay posting as one of the happiest periods of his life.
A relic of bygone times indeed.
The photo shows my grandfather, Constable Peter McGoldrick, somewhere in the Ballybay district. It was taken surreptiously by one of his colleagues and the photo then sent as a postcard to his fiancee; who was the Station Master's daughter in Ballybay at that time. Employed as a Census Enumerator, it can be clearly seen that he is holding a clipboard of forms and a blackthorn walking stick. There was no need to wear a revolver at that time and the only other accoutrements carried were the handcuffs, baton and whistle.
The couple were married in September 1911 in Ballybay. His wife treasured this photograph, and Peter himself considered his Ballybay posting as one of the happiest periods of his life.
A relic of bygone times indeed.
