Matthew Keogh facts for kids

Matthew Keogh (around 1744 – June 25, 1798) was an important leader during the Irish rebellion of 1798. He was in charge of the town of Wexford for the United Irishmen. After the town was taken back by British forces, he was held responsible for some violent events and was hanged.

Matthew Keogh's Early Life

Matthew Keogh was born in Ireland around 1744. When he was older, he joined the British Army as a regular soldier. He worked his way up and became an officer. In 1763, he was made an Ensign in the King's 60th Regiment of Foot. He then became a Lieutenant in the King's 45th Regiment of Foot in 1765. Later, he moved to the 27th (Inniskilling) Regiment of Foot in 1772. He left the army in 1774 as a captain-lieutenant. He even fought in North America during his time in the military.

Life in Wexford and the Rebellion

Before the Wexford Rebellion started in 1798, Matthew Keogh lived in Wexford. He was a freeman of the town, which meant he had special rights. He might have worked in shipping. He had been given a job as a justice of the peace for County Wexford. This meant he helped with local law and order. However, in 1796, he lost this job. People thought he had ideas that supported a revolution.

Keogh Becomes Governor

On May 31, 1798, the rebel forces of the United Irishmen took control of Wexford town. They set up a new group called the Council of the People. This council was created to manage the town and the county. Matthew Keogh was chosen as the main leader of this council. This made him the military governor of the county.

Challenges During the Rebellion

Even though Matthew Keogh had good intentions, he faced a very difficult situation. He was not able to stop a large group of people from harming nearly 100 local people who supported the British. This tragic event happened on Wexford bridge on June 20.

The End of the Rebellion

A few days later, British forces took back control of Wexford town. Matthew Keogh was put on trial along with other local leaders. He was found guilty and sentenced to death. On June 25, 1798, he and the other leaders were hanged on Wexford bridge. Their bodies were then put into the River Slaney.

See also

• Wexford Rebellion of 1798
• Bagenal Harvey, John Henry Colclough, Cornelius Grogan, Philip Roche, John Kelly of Killanne – Rebel leaders hanged on Wexford bridge, 25/28 June 1798