The Aftermath is a feature documentary film produced and directed by John Foley about the 1916-1924 period of Irish History.
The film explores what happened in Waterford city and county and during the War Of Independence and the Civil War. Descendants of those involved and local historians describe what happened not just during the immediate aftermath, but also in the 100 years since then. The contributors come from different sides of the conflict and share their knowledge, their memories and in some cases the emotions passed down from their ancestors.
The Aftermath looks at different parts of our 100 year post Civil War history such as the impact on the big houses, the escape by anti-treaty men to Canada and their subsequent return to Ireland in the 1930s when deValera gets into power. Descendants explain the life long impact on their ancestors and why very few people every talked about the period. There is an interesting insight as to why it is now more acceptable to talk about that difficult period of history and the pride that many now take in the actions of their ancestors.
Some of the interviews are very evocative and poignant. Pat Ormond describes how his father was shot near the end of the Civil War and the lifelong consequences he carried for the rest of his life. His father was on the way to Melleary to go to confession as he had decided to go home and give up the fight when he was shot and seriously injured. Anne Higgins describes how her uncle John Ivory was shot in controversial circumstances at the end of the Civil War and and Anne goes on to explain how her ancestors did not talk about it.
The interviews are supported by some simples visual re-enactments to augment and illustrate the stories being told. The stories are further illustrated thanks to the extensive collection of old photographs in Waterford County Museum and photos from the National Library of Ireland.
While very few new stories emerge, it is probably the first time that stories from different sides of the conflict are presented in one place. The various stories include incidents involving the Black and Tans, the IRA Cumann na mBan and Free State forces. They cover incidents across the county from the War of Independence such as Piltown Ambush, Pickardstown Ambush and the Burgery Ambush. The siege of Waterford City is described by local historians James Doherty and Dermot Power and then the story is taken up by Tommy Mooney, Ivan Lennon and Garvan Cummins as the anti-treaty fighters retreat westwards.
Historical photographs from the period, simple artistic imagery such as hiding guns, passing dispatches and shadows of men crossing remote areas, evocative scenic imagery of Waterford to help the viewer to interpret a very difficult part of our history which for most of us was not taught in school.
This project is supported by The Decade Of Centenaries via Waterford City & County Council. It is a difficult and sensitive subject for many and we are very grateful for all those who contributed in a very open and forthcoming manner. The content and balance of the film reflects the views of those who came forward to take part. Hopefully we have created a film that gives and insight to a period of our history that not been spoken about in a fair, balanced and respectful manner.
