Elliott sisters facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Elliott Sisters
Cumann na mBan: Emily Ledwith (née Elliott) with her sister Eilis Ní Briain (née Elliott)
Place of origin	County Westmeath, Ireland
Members	Emily, Eilís

The Elliott sisters, Emily (born 1893, died 1983) and Eilís (born 1896, died 1966), were two brave Irish sisters. They are famous for their part in a big event in Irish history called the Easter Rising in 1916. They were also among the first members of an important women's group called Cumann na mBan.

Who Were the Elliott Sisters?

Early Life and Family

Emily and Eilís were born in a place called Tonagh, near Glasson in County Westmeath, Ireland. Their parents were Peter Elliott, a farmer, and Margaret Berry.

They came from a large family! They had four sisters: Ethel, Theresa, Rebecca, and another Ethel (who became a nun named Sr. Imelda). They also had five brothers: J.J. (John Joseph), Andrew, Charles, Edward, and Arthur.

When the Easter Rising happened, Eilís was living in Dublin. She was also sometimes known by the name Lizzie.

Joining the Nationalist Movement

Both Emily and Eilís were very involved in the nationalist movement in Ireland. This movement was about Irish people wanting to rule themselves and be independent from British rule.

The sisters were active members of Cumann na mBan. This was a women's organization formed in 1914. Its goal was to help achieve an independent Ireland. Emily was part of a specific group within Cumann na mBan called the Keating branch.

Their Role in the Easter Rising

Helping at the GPO

During the Easter Rising in 1916, Emily wanted to help at the General Post Office (GPO) in Dublin. This building was a main spot for the rebels. She went into the city with another woman named Eilís Ryan.

However, they were not allowed into the GPO. Instead, they were sent to Reis's Chambers. This building was across O'Connell Street from the GPO.

At Reis's Chambers, there was a special school for wireless communication. The volunteers there were trying to send out messages about the rising. The Elliott sisters had a very important job: they made sure the men had enough food and supplies. This meant they had to cross O'Connell Street many times, even while it was being shot at!

On the second day of the Rising, Eilís Elliott joined her sister Emily and Eilís Ryan at Reis's Chambers.

Support in Other Locations

Later, the sisters also helped out at the Four Courts building and in Fr Matthew Hall. In both places, they continued to provide food and supplies. They also gave first aid to anyone who was hurt.

On the last night of the Rising, the sisters managed to avoid being arrested. With the help of some priests, they mixed in with people leaving a church service. This way, they were able to get away safely.

Remembering the Elliott Sisters

Music and Bridges

The Elliott sisters are still remembered in Ireland today. A musician from Westmeath named Enda Seery wrote a collection of traditional Irish music in their honor. It is called A New Ireland in the Orchard Air.

Also, a new bridge over the River Shannon was named the Cumann na mBan bridge. This was done to honor both the sisters and the important organization they belonged to.

Elliott Road in Athlone

On April 7, 2018, the Westmeath County Council decided to name a road in Athlone "Elliott Road." This was to celebrate the sisters' important contributions to the Easter Rising.

The Mayor of Athlone, Aengus O’Rourke, officially revealed the new road sign. Eilís Elliott's grandson, John McCann, gave a speech for the Elliott family. Her oldest grandson, Kevin Griffin, proudly wore her medals at the event. About a hundred members of the Elliott family came to this special occasion.