Lost photograph of Irish hero Michael Collins discovered in Dublin attic

90 years after his death unique photo may be valued in hundreds of thousands

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A rare new photograph of Michael Collins found in an attic just in time for the 90th anniversary of his death

Photo by Google Images

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The bride, Violet Gore, signed the photograph to Mr Kenny's grandmother, 'Gypsy' and her sister Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh. The Independent reports that the sisters were co-founders of The Abbey Theatre and ardent nationalists who saw action in 1916, with Maire leading Cumann na mBan under Thomas McDonagh and Gypsy carrying dispatches for Cathal Brugha.

"After the war, Maire married Collins's close friend and comrade Major General Bob Price. Bob had been director of organisation on the GHQ staff of the IRA. My great-grandfather -- who published the Irish War News for Pearse in 1916 -- was also friendly with Collins. They were both members of the IRB," said Kenny who is currently writing a book about his family.

The picture stayed in the possession of Mr Kenny's family throughout the War of Independence.

"It could have been discovered at any stage as the family home and printing business were constantly raided by the police. I like to imagine the Black and Tans ransacking their house in Glasthule, with Collins staring down at them from the wall."

Kenny decided to share the picture for the 90th anniversary of Beal na mBlath this week.

"It's a rare shot of our greatest national hero taking a day off from scrapping with the British Empire.

"I felt people should see it. I still haven't decided what to do with it though. I contacted the National Photographic Archive and they don't have a copy. I also brought it to Adams Auctioneers.

"They gave me a valuation which made my eyes water as it is, in effect, just an old wedding photograph.

"I wouldn't like to sell it, but if the right offer came in ... Either way, it was a lovely thing to find in the attic."

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