On the 7th of March 1848, Thomas Francis Meagher flew a Tricolour flag at the Wolf Tone Club 33 The Mall, Waterford City, where it flew continuously for eight days and nights before being removed by the authorities.
The Tricolour was presented as a gift in 1848 to Thomas Francis Meagher from a small group of French women sympathetic to the Irish cause was intended to symbolise the inclusion and hoped-for union between Roman Catholics (symbolised by the green colour) and Protestants (symbolised by the orange colour).
The Thomas Francis Meagher 177th Anniversary Tricolour Celebration is a historic event taking place in the city of Waterford, Ireland from March 7th to March 10th, 2025. This commemoration marks the life and legacy of Thomas Francis Meagher, an Irish American Patriot who played a pivotal role in Ireland’s struggle for independence.
Thomas Francis Meagher Walking Tour, Granville Hotel – 6PM
Visit sites associated with the life and career of Thomas Francis Meagher in Waterford starting with his birthplace at the Granville Hotel and concluding at the Sabai Restaurant at 7PM, his home where he was arrested in July 1848.
Join Us for an Exquisite Evening at Sabai!
Treat yourself to a memorable Friday night on March 7th at 7:30 PM with a specially curated two-course meal at Sabai. Savor bold flavors and vibrant dishes in a cozy, inviting atmosphere—all for just €30 per person. Secure your spot now for an unforgettable dining experience!
Spaces are limited—reserve your tickets today! 🍽️✨
10:00AM – Welcome and introductory remarks
Mr Eamonn McEneaney, Chair, Thomas Francis Meagher Tricolour Celebration Committee
Chaired by Ms Eileen Whelan, RTÉ broadcaster and journalist
10.15AM – ‘Meagher: a portrait of the general as a young man.’ - Donnchadh Ó Ceallacháin, Waterford Museum of Treasures
10.45AM – ‘Changing times in the United States: an Irish-American perspective.’ - Larry Donnelly, Lecturer and Director of Clinical Legal Education, School of Law, University of Galway
11.15AM – Tea/coffee break
12.00PM – ‘From economic cycles to bi-cycles: Ireland’s curious relationship with American multinationals.’ - Dr Ray Griffin, Senior Lecturer, School of Business, South East Technological University
12.30PM – ‘Ireland and America in a changing world.’ - Martin Cullen, former government minister, in conversation with Eileen Whelan, RTÉ.
Military Parade, Wreath Laying & Flag Raising Ceremony, Waterford Crystal Plaza – 12PM
Following the Thomas Francis Meagher Fife & Drum Band at the Granville Hotel (11am):
Parade of Veterans led by The De La Salle Scout Pipe Band
Barrack Street Concert Band
Wreath Laying Ceremony
Thomas Francis Meagher Oration
Tricolour Flag Raising Celebration
I trust that the old country will not refuse this symbol of a new life from one of her youngest children. I need not explain its meaning. The quick and passionate intellect of the generation now springing into arms will catch it at a glance. The white in the centre signifies a lasting truce between the “orange” and the “green” and I trust that beneath its folds, the hands of the Irish Protestant and the Irish Catholic may be clasped in generous and heroic brotherhood
Thomas Francis Meagher
