O’Gorman-Mahon Gun
Charles James Patrick Mahon (1800-1891) was born in Parnell Street, Ennis, and educated at Trinity College Dublin.
Known as the O’Gorman-Mahon, he was a member of the Catholic Association, an organisation that sought Catholic Emancipation by peaceful means. Indeed, he was the driving-force behind O’Connell’s 1828 election victory.
In 1830, he was elected MP for Clare, but lost his seat in 1831 in controversial circumstances, falling out with O’Connell, a rift that was never healed.
By 1835, he had married. He spent a number of years touring most of Europe, before returning in 1852 for the general election where he was again defeated.
He began a career as a soldier and served in the armies of Russia, France, Uruguay and the United States, before returning again to Ireland in 1871.
This side-by-side pistol was once owned by The O’Gorman-Mahon and used by him in 13 duels.
He once confided in William Gladstone that he was the aggressor each time.
Ref: 2000.27
