Events for April 21

April 21, 1871

John Fitzpatrick, Labor leader and Irish nationalist is born in Athlone, Co. Westmeath

John Fitzpatrick (1871–1946) was an Irish-born American trade union leader. He is best remembered as the longtime head of the powerful Chicago Federation of Labor, from 1906 until his death in 1946.

April 21, 1907

The nationalist groups, Cumman na nGaedheal and Dungannon Clubs, combine to form the Sinn Féin (Ourselves) League

In April 1907, Cumann na nGaedheal and the Dungannon Clubs merged as the ‘Sinn Féin League’.

April 21, 1703

Edinburgh Fire Brigade, one of the first in Scotland, formed.

In the early 18th century, urban fire was a constant and devastating threat due to the construction materials used (primarily wood) and the close proximity of buildings. Edinburgh’s “Company of Quenching of Fire” was formed against this backdrop as a necessary institution to protect the city and its inhabitants from frequent and destructive fires. This company functioned as an early fire brigade, likely composed of local volunteers who were organized to act in case of fires.

April 21, 1912

The Aud arrives at Banna Strand, Co. Kerry, from Germany with 20,000 rifles for use of the Volunteers in the Easter Uprising

Banna Strand is associated with Roger Casement who was captured on April 21, 1916, while attempting to land arms for Irish Republicans from the German vessel the Aud. Banana Strand is an Atlanic ocean beach extending from Ballyheigue in the North to Barrow Harbour at its southern edge, located in County Kerry.