Donegal Pioneers by Gerard Lovett
Siocháin (Official Magazine of the Garda Siochana Retired Members Association)
Vol 35, Spring 2006 ISSN 1649 - 5896

Three interesting photos have come to us through our Branch Secretary in Longford, Joe Reynolds. The photographs are of founder members of the Force - Hugh Beatty and the brothers Tom and Hugh McGonagle all from the townland of Carrowmenagh, Co Donegal.

Hugh Beatty Reg. No. 1455 was born on 9th May 1896 and joined the Force on 30th May 1922. He saw service with the old IRA in the 1st Northern Division. Jim Beattie, Hugh's cousin, was the first Garda to occupy the old RIC barracks in Moville, Co. Donegal on behalf of the Volunteers. Hugh displayed the characteristic dedication of the early Gardai by his devotion to duty. It was said that during his time at Moville in the spring of 1922, he was on standby round the clock taking only a week off to help cut turf. He retired from the Force on 30th May 1953 after 31 years service in a total of 15 stations in 6 divisions. Hugh died on the 14th July 1970.

Tom McGonagle, Reg. No. 2104 joined the Force on 28th October 1922 and resigned on the 20th September 1926. Prior to joining he saw service with old IRA in the 1st Northern Division. He emigrated to the USA where he died five years later in 1931. In his short service with the Force he saw service in Sligo/Leitrim, Garda Headquarters and Clare Divisions.

Hugh McGonagle, (brother of Tom) Reg. No. 2672 joined the Force on 29th November 1922 and served in Cork ER Division. He resigned on the same day as his brother Tom and emigrated with him to USA where he died on 2nd April 1974. Hugh served as a Sergeant in the Free State Army during the civil war prior to joining the Gardai.

As was the custom of the time all three men were in addition to being recommended by their local parish priest were also recommended by their Volunteer officer. In the case of Hugh Beatty his recommendation came from his Company OC, P. McLoughlin (Captain 'D' Company). and in the case of the McGonagle brothers their Battalion Commandant P.H. Doherty of the 2nd Batt. No. 2 Brig., 1st Northern Division.

Email received 17th April 2007
I would like to point out to you that Tom McGonagle and Hugh McGonagle were not brothers, but neighbours.
Tom actually used the McGonigle spelling of the surname,
Brigid McGonagle, (Daughter-in-law of the late Hugh)

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