William James Murtagh was born on the 27th November 1898 in Ballymote, Co, Sligo to Thomas Murtagh, 46944, a Constable in the Royal Irish Constabulary, and his wife Ellenor Brennan1, who were married on the 3rd November1890 in the catholic church at Knockcroghery, Co, Roscommon2. The 1911 census for house # 3 in Ballysadare Town, Co. Sligo, records that he was the second youngest, having an older sister and 3 brothers. William J. Murtagh, a 21 year old R.I.C. Constable died accidentally on the morning of 26th December 1919, as a result of a gunshot
wound to the head, at the police hut at Clonoulty, Co. Tipperary
1SR District/Reg Area – Sligo Birth of William James Murtagh on 27 November 1898
2Entry # 58 of Superintendent Registrar’s District of Roscommon for 1890.