1938: Wexford's stirring of interest in 1798?

[kclinch]

In my search of the family's Irish roots, I have noticed that 1938's 140 year anniversary of '98 in Co. Wexford was different in scale from other years. What social, cultural movements came together to make 1938 special? 125 or 150 years seems like a more likely choice for a big anniversary event. Living in the USA and born in 1955 I am not able to grasp the dynamic. The books I have read do not comment on the subject. 

[Wexflyer]

Ireland had become truly independent in the years since 1921. The present constitution came into force in December 1937, so 1938 was the first year of the present system of government. No previous anniversaries could have been celebrated in the same way, for various reasons, particularly the existence of British rule pre-1921.

[locksmith]

The book Who Fears to Speak of '98'? by Peter Collins (a copy can be found if you search google books) has an explanation on page 57. It was a result of a priest, Fr Patrick Murphy (Parish of Glyn Co Wexford) thinking that he would not be alive by the 150th anniversary and so bought the celebrations forward.

Simon

[kclinch]

Thank you to Locksmith and Wexflyer for your response. I will search for the book mentioned.
kevin