1736 – The Irish House of Commons Condemns the Tithe of Agistment
The Irish House of Commons took a stand against the tithe of agistment, which was a tax imposed on landowners for pasturing dry cattle. This was a significant moment in Ireland’s agricultural and economic history, as it reflected growing discontent with the heavy burden of tithes placed upon Irish farmers.
1800 – Birth of Harriet Smithson
Harriet Smithson, an Irish actress from Ennis, County Clare, was born on this day. She gained fame in France as the muse and later wife of composer Hector Berlioz, who wrote the Symphonie Fantastique, inspired by his obsession with her. Smithson’s performances of Shakespearean plays in Paris helped popularize Shakespeare in France.
1801 – Death of Ambrose O’Higgins
Ambrose O’Higgins, originally from County Sligo, rose from humble origins to become the Viceroy of Peru under Spanish rule. His policies contributed to infrastructure improvements in South America, and he was the father of Bernardo O’Higgins, a leader in Chile’s fight for independence. He died in Lima on this day.
1846 – Birth of Michael Davitt
Michael Davitt, a key figure in the Irish Land League movement, was born in Straide, County Mayo. He played a crucial role in the fight for tenant rights and land reform, advocating for the end of landlordism in Ireland. Davitt’s work led to significant changes in Irish land policies, including the introduction of tenant protection laws.
1886 – Irish Chess Association Organizes Match Against Belfast Chess Club
The Irish Chess Association advertised a match challenge to the Belfast Chess Club in local newspapers, showing the growing popularity of chess in Ireland during the 19th century. This was an early example of the development of organized chess competitions in the country.
1886 – Formation of Linfield F.C.
Linfield Football Club was founded in Belfast, becoming one of the most successful football teams in Irish history. Originally formed by workers from the Ulster Spinning Company, the club has since won multiple league titles and continues to be a dominant force in Irish football.
1976 – Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave Visits the White House
Irish Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave and his wife visited the White House, where they were received by U.S. President Gerald Ford and First Lady Betty Ford. This visit reinforced the strong diplomatic ties between Ireland and the United States, particularly in the context of Irish-American relations and economic partnerships.
1977 – Disappearance of Mary Boyle
On March 18, 1977, six-year-old Mary Boyle disappeared from her grandparents’ farm near Ballyshannon, County Donegal. Despite extensive investigations, she remains Ireland’s longest-running missing child case. Her disappearance continues to be the subject of speculation and calls for further inquiries.
| Sheelah’s Day Sheelah’s Day, celebrated on March 18, was historically linked to Saint Patrick’s wife or mother, though no definitive evidence confirms her identity. It was widely observed in Ireland and among Irish diaspora communities in Newfoundland and Australia. The festivities included drinking, wearing green, and extending St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. |  |