The Irish Citizen Army (ICA) was formed in October and November 1913 during the period of the Lockout.  The ICA was set up by the Irish Transport and General Workers Union (ITGWU) with the purpose of protecting demonstrating workers and pickets from the police force.  It was also a means of providing activity and purpose for the locked out workers.  This citizen militia never exceeded more than about 350 members, most of whom were also Union members. The formation of the ICA came only weeks before the establishment of the Irish Volunteers on 25th November 1913.   Based at the ITGWU HQ, Liberty Hall, the ICA went on to play a crucial role in the events of Easter 1916.

If you are looking for a family member who served in the Irish Citizen Army, Dr. Ann Matthews has created a list of members of the ICA, which can be viewed online.