Key Takeaways

• Clare earned its “Banner County” nickname through historical political movements and battle standards
• The county’s tradition of banner-carrying dates back to the early 19th century
• The nickname remains a source of pride and cultural identity for Clare residents today

The “Banner County” Nickname Through History

County Clare earned its distinctive moniker through centuries of proud military and cultural heritage, with its soldiers carrying banners into historic battles across Europe and its people standing tall for Irish independence.

Origin of ‘The Banner County’ Moniker

The nickname dates back to the early 18th century when Clare soldiers distinguished themselves at the Battle of Ramillies in 1706. The Clare Dragoons, a renowned cavalry regiment, carried their banners with particular pride during this engagement.

The tradition of banner-bearing stretched back even further to medieval times, when Brian Boru’s forces marched under their own distinctive standards. The Norman invasion saw Thomas de Clare bringing his own heraldic banners to the region in the 13th century.

During Daniel O’Connell’s Catholic Emancipation campaign in the 1820s, Clare folk would march with elaborately decorated banners, strengthening the county’s association with these proud symbols.

Who Was Behind the “Banner County” Nickname?

The GAA’s founding father Michael Cusack, a Clare native, helped cement the nickname in sporting circles during the late 19th century. His influence meant the ‘Banner County’ became firmly attached to Clare’s sporting identity.

Local newspapers began using the term regularly in the 1880s during Charles Stewart Parnell’s Land League movement, when Clare people would gather under banners demanding fair treatment for tenant farmers.

The nickname gained further prominence during the War of Independence, with De Valera’s strong connections to Clare adding political weight to the banner-bearing tradition.

The “Banner County” in Culture and Geography

County Clare’s distinctive identity stems from its rich sporting traditions and spectacular natural landscapes, both of which have helped shape its nickname as the Banner County.

Sporting Heritage and the GAA

The GAA in Clare has forged an unbreakable bond with the county’s identity. Clare’s hurling teams have carried the banner with tremendous pride, particularly during their brilliant All-Ireland victories in 1995 and 2013.

The roar of crowds at Cusack Park in Ennis has become legendary, with passionate supporters waving their saffron and blue banners at Munster Championship matches.

Local clubs dot every parish from Loop Head to Lough Derg, nurturing young talent and preserving Clare’s sporting heritage with fierce dedication.

Natural Wonders and Heritage Sites

The Burren’s limestone pavements create an otherworldly landscape unique in Ireland, with rare Arctic and Mediterranean plants growing side by side.

The mighty Cliffs of Moher stand sentinel over the Atlantic Ocean, drawing visitors from across the globe to marvel at their 214-metre heights.

Ancient history echoes through sites like the Poulnabrone Dolmen, a 5,000-year-old portal tomb that speaks to Clare’s megalithic past.

The Shannon Estuary wraps around the county’s southern border, while Galway Bay’s waters lap its northern shores. Scattery Island’s round tower and monastic ruins tell tales of saints and scholars.

Frequently Asked Questions

County Clare earned its famous nickname through centuries of proud military tradition and its warriors carrying distinctive banners into battle.

What does ‘up the banner’ mean in Ireland?

‘Up the banner’ is a rallying cry used to show support for County Clare, especially during sporting matches. The phrase dates back to when Clare’s soldiers would raise their battle standards high.

The saying remains a beloved expression of Clare pride, with supporters often shouting it at hurling and football matches whilst waving the county’s saffron and blue colours.

Where did County Clare get its name?

The county takes its name from the town of Clare which was an important Norman settlement. The town itself was named after Thomas de Clare, a Norman lord who controlled the area in the 13th century.

The de Clare family built a castle and established their power base in the region, leaving a lasting legacy in the county’s name.

What is the most common surname in Clare?

O’Brien tops the list as Clare’s most prevalent surname, stemming from the powerful Dál gCais dynasty that ruled the region.

McMahon, McNamara, and Collins follow as other widespread Clare family names, each with deep roots in the county’s history.

What does ‘clare’ mean in Irish?

In Irish, Clare is written as ‘An Clár’, meaning ‘the board’ or ‘the plain’. This name refers to the wooden bridge or plank crossing that once spanned the River Fergus near Ennis.

The Irish name perfectly describes the county’s landscape, with its limestone plains stretching across much of the territory.