The Bold Fenian Men of Drogheda

Boyne Valley Trails

Who were the Fenians of Drogheda? Who were the American Federal Officers lying low in Drogheda in preparation for the Rising of 1867?

St. Peter's Catholic Church, Drogheda

Boyne Valley Trails September Festival 2025

Welcome to the Boyne Valley Trails September Festival. Join us for an 8-day long event and immerse yourself in the nature, beauty, history and heritage of the Boyne Valley. We have a  walking tour to suit all levels and interests.

Welcome to the Boyne Valley Trails September Festival; immerse yourself in our guided walks, hikes and trails and discover the beauty, history and nature of the stunning Boyne Valley regionThe Bold Fenian men of Drogheda:A Presentation Walk n Talk by Community Historian Brendan Matthews. Who were the Fenians of Drogheda? Who were the American Federal Officers frequently visiting, recruiting and lying low in Drogheda in preparation for the Rising of 1867? Who were the gallant women of Drogheda who played significant roles within the Fenian Movement? What was the significance of this Fenian Conspiracy and its implications in the Drogheda area?Brendan Matthews will tell the extraordinary tale of the formation of the Fenian Conspiracy and the birth of the Irish Republican Brotherhood in Drogheda in 1862. How the ending of the American Civil War in 1865 saw many Irish American Federal Officers arriving in Drogheda to take part in the planned Fenian Rising of March in 1867. How the Rising ultimately failed, yet it sparked the `fire` which was to ultimately lead to the Easter Rising of 1916 and Ireland`s fight for Independence.This particular Walk n Talk will focus on key sites &amp; locations within the town-centre area of Drogheda. Starting point is outside Saint Peter`s Catholic Church in West Street at 11am and will finish in the centre of town at around 12.30pm.Things to note: Lasting around 1½ hours, the walk is laid-back and easy under-foot. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and light layers. Photos and video footage may be captured during this walking tour/event. There are several paid parking options in Drogheda town centre, including on-street parking, Domincs Car Park, Town Centre Car Park, Bolton Square car park and more-all within a 5 minute walk to the starting point at St Peters Church, West Street, Drogheda.