Patrick Sheehy : Short Biography

Fr. Patrick Sheehy was the parish priest in Tulla from 1837-1856.  He was born in Whitegate, County Clare and was from a farming family.  He was educated at Park College in Limerick and was ordained to the priesthood in 1822 in Limerick.  Initially he served in Clonrush (Whitegate and Mountshannon), but was moved to Killadysart in 1828.  He was known for his strong opinions on Irish nationalism, Gaelic culture, tenant right and Catholic equality.  Fr. Sheehy was instrumental in the construction of several churches in the Killadysart area and is still remembered for his work during his time there. 

In 1837, he began his ministry at Tulla.  He remained there until his death in 1856.  Fr. Sheehy fought tirelessly for tenant rights and was a witness to the Devon Commission hearings that were held in the 1840s to address the problems with the land leases.  During the Famine in Tulla, Fr. Sheehy worked tirelessly to try to alleviate the distress and suffering of his parishioners.  He and Rev. Richard Brew, the local Minister formed the local Famine Relief committee and raised much needed funds to try to feed the residents.  It was during this time that his curate, Charles Killeen died from cholera ministering to those who were sick.  Fr. Sheehy was also a national supporter for the Tenant Right League and spoke at a number of large meetings.  Fr. Sheehy died in January 1856.