An Important Collection of Irish Historical Documents

In order to prevent further slaughter of the civil population and in the hope of saving the lives of our followers, the members of the Provisional Government present at headquarters have decided on an unconditional surrender, and commandants or officers commanding districts will order their commands to lay down arms. P.H.Pearse, Dublin, 30th April 1916

Padraig Pearse (1879 - 1916)

Final order of surrender, Easter 1916.
Written in ink on paper, 35 x 20.5cm (13 x 8’’)

The single page having several drawing pin holes and crease marks Signed and dated 30th April, 1916.


Provenance : Fr. Columbus O.F.M. Cap.; Fr. Conrad, O.F.M. Cap. As Provincial (Superior) of the Capuchin Order. Thence by descent
Adam’s auction May 2005


Literature: Seamus O’Buachalla (Ed) The Collected Letters of Patrick Pearse. Peader O’ Donabhain, Doicimead Stairiuil O 1916, Comhar, Samhain, 1975. Piaras Mac Lochloainn, Last Words, Letters and Statements of the Leaders Executed after the Rising at Easter, 1916.

Currently on view in the GPO's Witness History Exhibition, for more detail please see www.gpowitnesshistory.ie