web_johnston_41

A wedding group, 1918
Johnston // County Louth :: A wedding group, 1918
<
>

What is happening in the photo?

A group portrait from the wedding of Ms. Errol Bell and Mr. Patrick Johnston, in Drogheda in 1918. Errol was from a Protestant background, and was obliged to convert in order to marry Patrick, after which she became an ardent Catholic. After hearing of the engagement, Errol’s father wrote her a letter instructing her to collect her belongings from his solicitor’s office, and never spoke to her again.

 

1918 was the year that The Military Service Bill was passed, which included conscription in Ireland. This was vehemently opposed by nationalist parties, and an anti-conscription meeting held in Roscommon attracted 15,000 attendees.  

 
Album: Johnston // County Louth
Click here to see all thumbnails in larger format