Brian Molloy

Brian Molloy, born in 1888, was an Irish nationalist and revolutionary figure who played a significant role in the struggle for Irish independence during the early 20th century. He was an active member of the Irish Republican Brotherhood and later served as an officer in both the Irish Volunteers and the Irish Republican Army, fl. 1916-1921. Molloy held the rank of Battalion Commandant in the No. 1 Galway Brigade of the Irish Volunteers during the Irish War of Independence (1919–1921).

Membership in the Castlegar Circle alt=Brian Molloy's side profile whilst wearing a prison hat. Brian Molloy photographed wearing a prison hat following the Easter Rising.The Castlegar Circle of the IRB was formed in the early 1900s, with Molloy becoming a sworn member in 1907 at nineteen years old. This training spanned areas from Oranmore to Lough Corrib. In preparation for the Rising, Molloy followed orders from Liam Mellows and Captain Monahan, discussing the potential actions to be taken. Between 5:00 and 5:30 AM on Wednesday, April 26, 1916, the second day of the Easter Rising in County Galway, an exchange of fire took place at Carnmore Crossroads between the Claregalway and Castlegar Volunteers and British forces. The Volunteer Companies were led by Nicholas Kyne and Brian Molloy respectively. Between 1919 and 1921, during the Irish War of Independence, Molloy played a critical role in orchestrating guerrilla warfare against British forces. His work involved planning ambushes, gathering intelligence, and maintaining morale among volunteers in Galway. He commanded the Merlin Park Ambush on August 21, 1920.

His family home was looted and burned to the ground by the Black and Tans.

In July 1922, he joined the anti-treaty side during the Civil War and fought against the National Army in Galway city.

Brian Molloy's revolver and holster were donated by the family to the Galway City Museum.