New book tells of the Scot who died for the Republic

HISTORIAN and regular contributor to The Irish Voice, Stephen Coyle, is looking forward to the publication of his latest book next month.

The Last Gallowglass: The Story of Ian MacKenzie Kennedy who died for the Irish Republic, is about a Scottish Gael who was born into a distinguished Scottish family in 1899.

MacKenzie Kennedy (above) came from a long family tradition of service in the British Army, and his father was a major in the Norfolk Regiment. He wore the kilt, played the bagpipes and spoke Gaelic proficiently.

A quest for Celtic studies brought him to the West Cork Gaeltacht, where he joined the Cork No 1 Brigade of the Irish Republican Army and took part in the War of Independence.

Known affectionately among his comrades as ‘Scottie,’ he was admired for his intelligence, courage, and idealism. He was killed in action, aged 23, while defending the Republic at the Battle of Douglas in August 1922.

Stephen has been on the trail of Scottie for 34 years and this is his story.

There will be a book launch in Grace’s Irish Centre, on Wednesday March 10 from 7-9pm, jointly hosted by the 1916 Rising Centenary Committee (Scotland) and Glasgow St Patrick’s Festival Committee. Admission is free and all are welcome. Tickets can be booked on Eventbrite.