Bogtrotters at 1798 mountain camp

The Bogtrotters, that hardy band of republican hill walkers, descended out of the driving rain and lashing winds to the Whelp Rock area high above the Poulaphouca reservoir on their most recent outing.

This rugged place hosted the last major base for the United Irishmen in the summer and autumn of 1798.

The Wexford army, having inflicted a major defeat on General Duff's Cavalry, but in order to avoid encirclement by General Needham, now headed into the Wicklow Mountains. This army reached the rugged Whelp Rock area about the 6 July, where Holt and his men had arrived a few days earlier. This camp was already well established by the north Wicklow and Dublin United men under Colonel McMahon and nearby Blessington village and surrounding big houses had been destroyed.

Within a short time, a meeting took place among the leaders to decide upon what direction this United force should take.

Some of those reported taking part in the debate were Esmond Kane, Edward Fitzgerald, Thomas Dixon, Garrett Byrne, Anthony Perry, Fr Mogue Kerns and Joseph Holt. A further 18 also took part in the council but their names are untraceable.

The final vote was to advance into Kildare and join up with other rebels there, then cross the Boyne River and head for Athlone.

At eleven o'clock on the night of Monday 9 July, this army moved off from Whelp Rock and into the last major battles of the 1798 Rising.

In spite of the bad weather on the day, our Bogtrotters enjoyed themselves and are looking forward to the next walk this Saturday 8 May.

Those interested in participating should meet up in Roundwood Village at 11am outside the Roundwood Inn. Proper walking gear is a must. The Bogtrotters are still open to new members.