On 2nd July, Limerick Museum welcomed the opening of the exhibition A Fine Type of Irishman: The Life and Death of Tom Blake, alongside the official unveiling of Éamon de Valera, a painting by Seán Keating, PRHA.
Thomas (Tom) Blake (1892–1921) worked as a chemist’s assistant at Laird’s Medical Hall, 118 O’Connell Street. He joined the Irish Volunteers, later the IRA, in 1917 and was involved in republican activities during the War of Independence. Blake was shot and killed by Crown forces on 28 January 1921. His contribution to the republican movement was later acknowledged by prominent Limerick republican, Madge Daly, who wrote that the death of this ‘fine type of Irishman’ represented ‘a great loss to the IRA.’
This wonderful exhibition also examines Tom Blake the private individual. During his short life, Tom managed to maintain an active social life. He was a member of the Limerick Operatic Society and he and his friends enjoyed frequent trips to the coast.
Tom met his girlfriend Lily Lenihan (1894-1981) during a visit to Ballybunion. His five surviving letters to Lily, all written in the weeks immediately prior to his death, convey a loving and deeply caring relationship. He evidently took her fully into his confidence regarding his IRA activities and she was very concerned for his safety. Both looked forward to a ‘very happy’ future together beyond the ‘separation & suffering’ they were enduring at the present time. Lily was left distraught by Tom’s death. She never married and died in Dublin in October 1981.
The second part of the evening’s event was the official unveiling of the painting Éamon de Valera by Seán Keating, PRHA. To mark the opening of the A Fine Type of Irishman exhibition, Maire Lanaghan and her husband Iain kindly donated this magnificent painting to Limerick Museum, dedicating it to the memory of Tom Blake and his beloved Lily Lenihan. Full of character and vigour, the portrait depicts President de Valera in his late seventies and can therefore be dated to circa 1960, not long after he won the 1959 presidential election. The painting was placed on permanent display at Limerick Museum.
Mayor of Limerick John Moran opening the exhibition, commented:
“This exhibition gives us a deeper understanding of Tom Blake, not only as a key figure in Ireland’s struggle for independence, but as a young Limerick man whose hopes, friendships and ambitions were cut tragically short. It was a particular pleasure to meet Maire Lanaghan who did so much great research on her [granduncle] to keep his memory alive and her family.
I want to especially thank Maire and her husband Iain for their generous gift so that future generations will be able to engage with an important piece of Ireland’s artistic and political heritage. How fitting that Limerick born Seán Keating’s magnificent portrait of Éamon de Valera who himself spent so much of his youth in Limerick has found a permanent home in Limerick Museum.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Tom Ruddle said:
“This exhibition tells an important Limerick story, bringing to life the experiences of Tom Blake and Lily Lenihan during a pivotal period in our history. Through their story, visitors can connect with both the national significance and personal impact of the struggle for independence.”
Director General, Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly added:
“Limerick Museum plays a vital role in preserving and sharing the stories that have shaped our city and county. This exhibition brings together historical research, personal testimony and artefacts to tell a compelling story of courage, loss and resilience.”
Dr Matthew Potter said:
“I am particularly grateful to Maire Lanaghan, grandniece of Tom Blake, who was the instigator and curator of this exhibition, and to both Maire and Dr Seán Gannon, Limerick Local Studies who wrote the exhibition text. I also want to thank the staff of Limerick Museum, Dr Zara Power, Assistant Curator, and my other colleagues for their role in the planning and development of this exhibition.
“We are overwhelmed by the donation of the Keating portrait of President de Valera to our Museum. It is fitting that a portrait of one of Limerick’s greatest statemen, painted by one of Limerick’s greatest artists should find its home in Limerick Museum. Thank you, Maire and Iain for your extraordinary generosity.”
A Fine Type of Irishman. The Life and Death of Tom Blake will be on display in Limerick Museum until 31 July 2026.
Limerick Museum is situated in the Old Franciscan Friary on Henry Street, next door to Dunnes Stores. The Museum is open to the public Monday to Friday 10.00am to 5.00pm; Saturday 10.00am-1.00pm and 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Admission is FREE.
