Maud Gonne, Ireland's Joan of Arc, Speaks in Multiple American Cities on Behalf of Irish Prisoners through December 1897

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Maud Gonne, referred to in the media as Ireland's Joan of Arc, was criss-crossing the United States in November and December 1897 to raise funds and awareness of the plight of Irish prisoners in English prisons. Proceeds of funds raised on the speaking tour were given to Irish Political Prisoners.

In December alone, Gonne spoke in Colorado, Elizabeth, NJ, Brooklyn, Buffalo, Boston, Lynn and Fall River, Massachusetts.

On December 23, Gonne spoke at Anawan Hall in Fall River, where a large audience received her and cheered her on. She was accompanied by James F. Eagan, an ex-prisoner, and delegate from the Amnesty Association of Ireland and Great Britain.

She said in her speech, "America will hold its place as a refuge for all of the oppressed, the great ideal republic, the lamp of liberty, lighting the fires of freedom throughout the world."





Illustration in the Fall River Globe

The Fall River Herald described her as "a striking-looking young woman, being of unusual bright and with graceful carriage, having a fine face, which gives the impression of power, and large and expressive eyes. 

"She says she is delighted with the. reception which has been accorded to her in every American city which she has visited, and is pleased to find everywhere enthusiasm for Ireland at the highest pitch."

In Fall River, she was accorded a parade, followed by a night filled with live music and fiery speeches from local Irish leaders, according to the Fall River Globe. 

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