 The anti - treaty forces largely held four military barracks and most of the town while the Free state forces in the city held Cruises Hotel on O'Connell Street (along with Customs House, the Jail, the Courthouse, William Street RIC Barracks which were all located nearby).During this time Limerick saw much street fighting between the opposing forces which lasted three days.The fighting resulted in 15 deaths, seven of whom were civilians and eight Free State soldiers.