Ballyshannon Its History & Antiquities

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. English soldiers drowned retreating across Casan-na-gCumha ford

   Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1597

   The retreating English army attempted to cross a little-used and dangerous ford called Casan-na-gCumha, immediately above the waterfall at Ballyshannon. Many soldiers were swept down the fall and drowned. The ford got its name from this engagement, meaning 'the path of the champions.'

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   plan was to descend the hill in companies, if possible unperceived by O'Dcmnell's soldiers, and to cross that little used and dangerous ford called CmrM-na-g-Cumhlh, immediately above the waterfall. In endeavouring to carry ont this project, many of their numbers were swept down the fall and drowned ; but the commander, officers, and all who were able, crossed over to the south bank of the river, from thence retreating by the Mby. Whenever O'Donnell's soldiers became aware of their movements, they opened fire upon them, and O'Donnell (though not himself within the castle during the siege), who had come to the rescue with additional soldiers from other parts of Tirconnell, at once put his men in fighting trim, and crossing the river* alter the enemy, followed them for a considerable distance, as they retreated to Sligo. The English losses were not less than GOO killed, besides the loss of the greater part of their baggage and stores, which, in their hurried flight they had left behind them. O'Donnell, as we have already remarked, was on friendly terms with the Court of Spain, and had received a couple of months before the siege, a cargo of storos from thence, which were called into requisition in this emergency. This memorable siege shows what can be accomplished by bravery and determination, for the odds against O'Donnell were tremendous. The invading army consisted of not less than four thousand men, woll armed and provisioned ; whereas the garrison within the castle numbered only eighty men, who were commanded by a Scoteli captain, named Owen Crawford; six of his men were Spaniards, the test Irish.

   After tilings had settled down in Bally shannon to their acenstomed quiet, Cormac O'Clery, one of the monks of Assaroe, recovered, after careful search, the body of the Baron of Inchiquin: his remains were interred with all due solemnity in tho Monastery burial-ground. However, the friars of Donegal Abbey hearing of this, contended that the body should be buried

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

   As the companion tells it

   Coming through Ballyshannon now. In 1597 an English army, four thousand strong, was retreating down the hill in companies, trying to cross a little-used and dangerous ford called Casan-na-gCumha, right above the waterfall. Many soldiers were swept down the fall and drowned. The ford got its name from this, meaning the path of the champions. The commander and officers managed to cross to the south bank of the river and retreat toward Sligo. O'Donnell, who had come to the rescue with soldiers from other parts of Tirconnell, crossed the river after them and pursued them for a considerable distance. English losses were not less than 600 killed, and they lost the greater part of their baggage and stores in their hurried flight. The odds against O'Donnell had been tremendous. The invading army was four thousand men, well armed and provisioned, while the castle garrison numbered only 80, commanded by a Scottish captain named Owen Crawford, six of whom were Spaniards and the rest Irish. O'Donnell had received a cargo of stores from Spain a couple of months before the siege, which he drew on for this emergency. After things settled, Cormac O'Clery, one of the monks of Assaroe, searched carefully and recovered the body of the Baron of Inchiquin, and his remains were buried with solemnity in the Monastery burial-ground. The friars of Donegal Abbey, hearing of this, contended that the body should be buried elsewhere.

2. Three-day cannonade of Ballyshannon castle fails

   Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1597

   The English army placed cannon before O'Donnell's castle at Ballyshannon and bombarded it without intermission from Monday to Wednesday. The Four Masters describe thick fire and red shot from roaring guns, but the fortress held firm against all battering.

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   and military stores, crossed the Bar and came up to the island of Inis-saraer, where they landed their stipplies lor the use of the invaders. On the following day — Monday — the camion were brought off to the mainland, and placed in position before O'Donnell's castle ; the troops then marched from the Abbey, anil toiik tip their quarters on the summit oiSiiA Aodha (Mullagknashee). Having then marched down to the neighbourhood of the castle, they commenced their cannonade, which they kept up withont intermission till Wednesday. The good old fortress was proof however, against all their battering, and after a three day's siege it hold out as impregnable as over. The attack is thus graphically described by the "Four Masters'' — "They continued firing at the castle with thick flashes of tire and rod shot, from loud-roaring guns, and immensely large and heavy ordnance, which (hey planted before the fortress, so that their resounding and echoing reports were heard in the vaults of tho air, far and distant from them ; having their bodies clad with thick, strong iron armour, fine polished helmets on their heads, and completely guarded with bright round broad-bucklers aud shields of hard iron to protect them against tho shots of their enemies. O'Donnell's soldiers on their part, gallantly defeuded the castle, pouring down thick showers of shot upon the enemy, while from the battlements of the castle, they threw down heavy stones, beams, and other missiles upon any of their foes who came under tho castle walls." At length the besiegers, notwithstanding their great numerical strength aud extensive stores, perceiving that all then- efforts to take the castle were in vain, turned their backs upon its walls and retired to their campinggroond, on Mullaghnashce, receiving us they went, a parting salute of shot from the castle garrison. During the engagement, the besiegers lost great numbers, and many more wore badly wounded. Upon Mullaghnasheo a council of war was held by the commander and officers, their deliberations lasting all through the night, till break of day on Thursday, when they came to the deciaiun of making a precipitate retreat. Their

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   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

   As the companion tells it

   The town of Ballyshannon lies ahead, where O'Donnell's castle once stood against an English assault in 1597. The army crossed the bar and landed supplies on the island of Inis-saraer. On Monday they brought cannon to the mainland and placed them before the castle. The troops marched from the abbey and took quarters on the summit of Mullaghnashee. Then they came down to the neighbourhood of the castle and commenced their cannonade, keeping it up without intermission until Wednesday. The Four Masters described it in their own words: thick flashes of fire and red shot from loud-roaring guns, and immensely large and heavy ordnance planted before the fortress, so that their resounding and echoing reports were heard in the vaults of the air, far and distant. The besiegers wore thick iron armour, polished helmets, and round broad-bucklers and shields of hard iron to protect against enemy shots. O'Donnell's soldiers gallantly defended the castle, pouring thick showers of shot down upon the enemy, and from the battlements throwing heavy stones, beams, and other missiles upon any foe who came under the walls. The good old fortress was proof against all their battering. After three days it stood as impregnable as ever. The besiegers, with great numerical strength and extensive stores, saw that all efforts were in vain. They turned their backs on the walls and retired to their camping ground on Mullaghnashee, receiving a parting salute of shot from the garrison as they went. They lost great numbers, and many more were badly wounded. A council of war was held on Mullaghnashee through the night, until break of day on Thursday, when they decided on a precipitate retreat.

3. Custodians of the Cathach at Ballymagroarty

   near Ballymagrorty · population centre · Derry

   The Magroarty family were hereditary custodians of the Cathach, the battle-book of the O'Donnells, and held the townland of Ballymagroarty near Ballyshannon in virtue of their office. The Cathach was carried before the army of Tirconnell as a talisman to victory.

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   and the towuland of Ballymagroarty, near Ballyshannon, was held by them in virtue of their office. The Cathach was carried on the breast of the custodian, before the array of Tirconnell, and three times before a battle did the keeper carry it round the soldiers of O'Donnell as a talisman to victory. It did not however always ensure success, for in ] 497 Con O'Donnell was defeated in a battle with MaeDennott, in the Curliew mountains, and the Cathach was taken by the enemy, and MacRoarty, its keeper, slain, Subsequently it was recovered, and remained in the charge of the MacRoarty family til! the close of the 17th century. In 1724 it was in the possession of Col. David O'Donnell, from whom it passed to Sir Neal O'Donnell, thence to Sir Richard O'Donnell, Bart., by whom it was deposited in the museum of the Royal Dish Academy, and can now be seen by any one who will visit that depositary of Irish antiquities.

   In times of peace, within the walls of the castle of Ballyshannon, the OTJonnells exercised that lavish hospitality which was characteristic of Irish chiefs, and became them as the princes of Tkconnell. A glimpse of their way of living is afforded by an account contained in the " Four Masters," of a visit paid by a neighbouring chief of Fermanagh. Gioltnise Maguire, having a grievance, determined to go and consult O'Donnell Accompanied by a troop of cavalry, whom he commanded to carry with them a supply of the choicest liquors for the journey, he at length arrived at the cattle of Ballyshannon. When O'Donnell heard that his friend Maguire, attended by his horsemen, was in the eastle lawn, he went out to meet him, and having affectionately ki&sed Giollaise, and given orders for the proper entertainment of his men. he bronght the Fermanagh chief into the banqueting hall, where the sweetest meats and best flavoured liquors were served up, and there they spent their time till the usual hour of dinner. They enjoyed their evening together, and their ears were delighted with the sweet sound of harp and voice. When sleeping time came, ODomiell escorted his friend to the "gncn chamber," followed by attendants carrying "sweet and delicious

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

4. Baron of Inchiquin killed crossing the Erne at Ath-cull-uain

   Belleek · townland · Galway · 1597

   During the 1597 campaign against Ballyshannon, the English army crossed the Erne at an intricate ford called Ath-cull-uain, about half a mile west of Belleek. A soldier shot the Baron of Inchiquin off his horse; the ball penetrated his mail armour and he fell into the river and drowned.

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   rendered its conquest of great moment, and no expense or pains were considered too great to accomplish so desirable an object. ft was then little more tlian tUirty years after the signing of the treaty between Callogh O'Donnell and the Lord Deputy, that the first determined effort was made by the English to get possession of Ballyshannon, In A.d. 1507 Sir Conyers Clifford was sent over from England as governor of Conn aught. He had at his command a plentiful supply of arras, and a largo military force, which was supplemented by Dunougb, the son of Connor, and Murragh, baron of Inchiipiin, together with several other of the Irish nobles who had joined the English ranks, [hiving mustered all their forces, which consisted of twenty-two standards of foot, and ten of cavalry, they marched to the banks of the " Samaoir of blue streams " (the ancient name of our river), where they pitched their camp, Ou the south bank they passed the night, and early on the following morning prepared to cross the river, thinking their overwhelming numbers would strike terror into the hearts of O'Dounell's garrison, and that they would carry the place by storm. O'Donnell, however, had all the fords well guarded by his soldiers, so that the- invading host tried in vain to effect a crossing near the town. They at length made their way to an intricate ford called Ath-cutl-uain, about half a mile west of Belleek, and near Teetwmg burial ground, where they succeeded in crossing the river, the time being July and the river at its snmmcr level. Here also they were opposed by O'Dounell's soldiers, one of whom taking aim at the Baron of Inchiqnin (who was crossing on horseback, and encouraging his men to advance), shot him off his horse; the ball penetrating his mail armour, he fell into tho river and was drowned. The soldiers did not take time to recover the body of their fallen captain, but having made good their passage to the north bank of the river, they pressed forward, not halting till they reached the monastery of Assnroe, where they encamped from Saturday till Mi >ui lay. Ob Sum lay, whilst the besieging army was encamped at the Abbey, a number of vessels from Galway, laden with ordnance

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   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

5. Gold treasure discovered near Ballyshannon from harper's song

   Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1700–1799

   Near the end of the eighteenth century, two pieces of gold were dug up near Ballyshannon after an Irish harper sang a song at the bishop of Derry's dinner, describing a spot where a man of gigantic stature was buried with plates of pure gold over his head and back and large gold rings on his fingers. Two persons dug at the described spot and found the gold.

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   in the adjacent sand-bank. While speaking of the frequency of ;ro trove, we may mention a curious and interesting discovery of gold in the neighbourhood of Ballyshannon, at tin ; 61 the eighteenth century. It is thus recorded in "Camden's Britiania," published in 1722: — "[Near Beliishannou, were, not many 3'ears ago, dug up two pieees of gold, discovered by a method very remarkable. The bishop of Derry happening i" be at dinner, there came in an Irish harper, and sung an old ■--■■ harp, BBs lordship, not understanding Irish, was at a loss to know the meaning of the song; but upon enquiry be found the subject of it to bo this, that in such a place, naming the very spot, a man of gigantic stature was buried, and that over his

   ■ I and back were pkite-i <>/ pure rjuhl, and on his fingers rin.L'> of gold, so large, that an ordinary man might creep through them. The place was so exactly described that two persons there present were tempted to go in quest of the golden prize, which the harper's song had pointed out to them. After they had dug for some time, they found two pieces of gold (one of

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Ballyshannon, there is a story from Camden's Britannia, published in 1722, about gold found in this neighbourhood. Not many years before that, two pieces of gold were dug up here, discovered by a remarkable method. The bishop of Derry was at dinner when an Irish harper came in and sang an old song. His lordship did not understand Irish, so he asked what the song was about. The subject was this: in a named spot, a man of gigantic stature was buried, and over his head and back were plates of pure gold, and on his fingers rings of gold so large that an ordinary man might creep through them. The place was so exactly described that two persons present at the dinner were tempted to go in search of the golden prize the harper's song had pointed out. After digging for some time, they found two pieces of gold.

6. The Green Lady haunting at Ballyshannon barracks

   Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1780–1790

   An officer's wife known as the 'Green Lady,' from the colour of her dress, was said to have been killed by her husband in the old barrack at Ballyshannon bridge. Strange stories of hauntings were whispered about the house, and Lord Castlereagh, stationed there, later recounted eerie circumstances at a Paris dinner attended by Sir Walter Scott.

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   " Willi his pipes and songs And chanter longs, Hi.' sits in high decorum. And at Lis ase* he snuffs and plays, And pushes about the jorum. Amongst the officers quartered in the old barrack at the bridge, in the hist century, was the Hon, Robert Stewart, afterwards Lord Castlereagh. An officer's wife, known as the " Green Lady" (from the colour of her dress), was said to have fallen by the hand of her husband, while in this barrack, and many strange stories were whispered abont the house being haunted. Whether or not Lord Castlereagh bad his imagination excited by these rumours, we know not, but it is certain he related several strange circumstances many years after, at a dinner party in Paris, one of those present being Sir Walter Scott, who afterwards referred to it in his writings.

   The circumstance is graphically described in a poem entitled the "Goblin Child of Ballyshannon," by William Allingnam:— " A Kegiment, filing row by row, One evening ninety years ago, As wintry dusk was drawing late. Through Bally shannon's old bridge.gate. Changed pass-words with the pacing guard, Li:[!-k1u'.Ji.'i1 into the barrack-yard, And halted willingly— for tired The men wore, drooping, soaked, and mirad ; And ev'e the highest in command, With trembling knee and fevered haDd, Felt on his horse almost as jaded And glad to end the march aa they did.

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 37

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Ballyshannon, you are in a town with a dark old tale. The old barrack stood at the bridge here, and in the last century an officer's wife known as the Green Lady, from the colour of her dress, was said to have fallen by the hand of her husband while in that barrack. Many strange stories were whispered about the house being haunted. Among the officers quartered there was the Hon. Robert Stewart, afterwards Lord Castlereagh. Whether his imagination was excited by these rumours, we do not know, but he related several strange circumstances many years later at a dinner party in Paris. Sir Walter Scott was present, and afterwards referred to it in his writings. The circumstance is described in a poem entitled the Goblin Child of Ballyshannon by William Allingham, who wrote of a regiment filing row by row, one evening ninety years ago, as wintry dusk was drawing late, through Ballyshannon's old bridge gate. The men were tired, drooping, soaked, and miry, and even the highest in command, with trembling knee and fevered hand, felt his horse almost as jaded and was glad to end the march as they did.

7. Donegal Abbey burned by the English, 1601

   Donegal · town · Donegal · 1601

   The monastery of Donegal was burned to the ground by the English in 1601. An attempt was made to rebuild the abbey but it was never completed. The friars eventually returned from hiding and built a few cottages among the ruins.

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   renewed vigour to the service of literature. It was in the same year that they were deprived of the last of their lauds, that the great work known as the "Annals of the Four Masters," and sometimes styled the "Donegal Annals* was begun. The compilers were— Teige of the Mountain, O'Clery (who afterwards adopted the name of Michael), Maurice O'Mulconary, Fergus 0 Mulconary, Cueogry O'Duigen, Cucogry O'Clery (also called Peregrine mentioned above), and Couary O'Clery, It tbaa appears that there were actually six persons engaged in the compilation of the annals, though the work is popularly known as the "Annals" of the Four Masters— three of the Masters being of the O'Clery family. The work was not strictly speaking, written in the monastery of Donegal^ as it had been burned to the ground by the English, in 1C01. An attempt was made to rebuild the abbey, but it was never carried out. The friars of the abbey having fled after the destruction of their edifice, when :i!T:iii'5 settled clown, came out of their hiding places, and with the materials at their hand, built a, few cottages amongst the ruins / 1 heir former abmk. In these cottages the O'CIerys and iheir fellow labourers found a temporary home, and it was in them the annals were compiled, The work was begun on 22nd January, 1632, and finished 10th August, 1636. They commence with the year 2242, and end with tiie year of our Lord 1G16. To an Irish chief unconnected with Tirconnell* Fearghal O'Garikra, belongs the honour of having originated the idea of thus collecting tiie Records of Irish History, and defraying the expenses of the O'CIerys during the progress of the work. A striking proof of attachment to learning in the midst of adversity, is given by Peregrine O'Clery in his will. He thus bequeaths his most valued possessions : — " I bequeath the property most dear to me that I ever possessed in this world, namely my books, to my two sons, Dermot and John, Let them extract from them without injuring them, whatever may be necessary to their purpose, and lot them be equally seen and used by the children of my brother Cairbre as by themselves ;

   52 BAIiTSHASSOK AB A OOBFOEATE TnWX.

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8. Drumholm Monastery and St. Ernan's Vision

   Drumhome · townland · Donegal · 563–597

   St. Ernan, a disciple and relative of St. Columba, was abbot of a celebrated monastery at Drumholm. He had a vision of angels bearing Columba's soul to heaven as the saint died at Iona. The remains of many noted chiefs and abbots of Tirconnell were buried within the monastery precincts, but nothing now marks the site.

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   the ridge ot long hill of Tomina {a pagan woman's name), it was dedicated to St. Adamuan, the biographer of St. Columba. Here was also the celebrated monastery of which St. Ernan was abbot. This monk was a disciple of St. Columba, to whom also ha was related; and we are told that when Columba had finished his great work of spreading Christianity in Scotland, and was peacefully breathing his latest breath in Iona, that St. Ernan, otherwise called Ferreolus, in his secluded monastery at Drumholm, had a vision in which he saw angels gliding down from heaven, filling the air with heavenly music, and bearing off the pure soul of the saint, after it had left its earthly tenement, into the clouds of heaven. The monastery of Drumholm was one of great mark in its day, and within its precincts were deposited the remains of many of the most noted chiefs and abbots of Tirconnell. Nothing however now remains to mark the site of this once illustrious foundation, and even the name of its abbot would be forgotten, were it not perpetuated in the name of Mr. Hamilton's picturesque residence near the town of Donegal, which he has called St. Ernan's.

   We have already spoken of Tory Island as having been the head-quarters of the warlike tribe of Fomorians, but there are other and more pleasing associations connected with the island, for even to this wild secluded spot St. Columba found his way, and there founded a church and monastery. The monastery, according to the M Monasticon Eibernmtm" was founded in the year 650, and St. Ernan, son of Colman, was first abbot. This monastery continued to flourish through many ages down to the time of Queen Elizabeth, when Bingham, governor of Connaught, made a raid upon the island, destroying and pillaging all before him. It seems, however, that the Tory islanders did not even then submit to English rule, for in the "treasury papers" (time of James I.) we find the following entry : "To Sir Henry Follyot, Knt., for money by him disbursed for the hire of one boat, two mariners, and ten sailors, that were employed by the fpace of five weeks at the surprising of Torrey — ,£29 Gs. 8d."

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 9

   As the companion tells it

   Close to Drumhome, somewhere around here, once stood a celebrated monastery. Its abbot was St. Ernan, a disciple and relative of St. Columba. He was also called Ferreolus. Columba had finished his great work of spreading Christianity in Scotland, and was peacefully breathing his last at Iona. There, far from this quiet place, the saint lay dying. But here at Drumholm, in his secluded monastery, St. Ernan had a vision. He saw angels gliding down from heaven, filling the air with heavenly music, and bearing off the pure soul of the saint after it had left its earthly body, up into the clouds of heaven. The monastery of Drumholm was one of great mark in its day. Within its precincts were deposited the remains of many of the most noted chiefs and abbots of Tirconnell. Nothing now remains to mark the site of this once illustrious foundation. Even the name of its abbot would be forgotten, were it not perpetuated in the name of Mr. Hamilton's picturesque residence near the town of Donegal, which he has called St. Ernan's. So the place you are passing holds no trace of what was here. The monastery is gone, the graves are gone, and only the name carries the memory forward.

9. Emigration from Ballyshannon aboard the brig Mayflower, 1831

   Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1831

   In 1831 the brig Mayflower, owned by Ballyshannon merchant James McGowan, made two voyages to America carrying emigrants, completing one run in eighteen days. The vessel was part of a thriving direct trade between Ballyshannon and America that facilitated emigration from the district.

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   In the first half of the present century Bally shannon was in direct and frequent communication with America and Norway, as well as other foreign countries, and many of the vessels which plied this trade were owned by Ballyshannon merchants. The brisk demand for building materials which then existed, gave a. great impetus to local enterprise, and large consignments of timber from Russia, Norway, and Canada, were frequently being received. Ballyshaimon, it should be remembered, was at that time the chief emporium for Fermanagh and the neighbouring counties. One important result of this direct communication with America was the facilities it offered for emigration; and many were the persons who left their native place, and sought a home in the new world. In 1831 the brig "Mayflower," belonging to Mr. James MeGowan, an enterprising merchant of Ballyshannon, made two trips to America, conveying a number of passengers. On one of these occasions she accomplished the run in eighteen days. The " Josephine " also brought away a large number of emigrants in 1S34.

   In the spring of 1836, the brig "Jane" left our port for Quebec, with 100 passengers, all of whom were industrious farmers and mechauics. She was comfortably berthed and provided. The brigs " Hope " and " Charlotte " (the latter 400 tons), both bound for St. John's, N. B. also left our shores the

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Ballyshannon, you are passing through a town that once sent ships straight to America. In the first half of the century, Ballyshannon was in direct and frequent communication with America and Norway, and many of the vessels plying this trade were owned by Ballyshannon merchants. There was a brisk demand for building materials, which gave impetus to local enterprise, and large consignments of timber from Russia, Norway, and Canada were frequently received. Ballyshannon was at that time the chief emporium for Fermanagh and the neighbouring counties. One important result of this direct communication with America was the facilities it offered for emigration. Many were the persons who left their native place and sought a home in the new world. In 1831 the brig Mayflower, belonging to Mr. James McGowan, an enterprising merchant of Ballyshannon, made two trips to America, conveying a number of passengers. On one of these occasions she accomplished the run in eighteen days. The ships left from this port, from the quays of a town that was then a gateway out of Ireland for the people of the district around it.

10. King Aedh Ruadh drowned and buried at Mullaghnashee

    Mullaghnashee · townland · Roscommon

    King Aedh Ruadh was drowned attempting to cross the river Erne at a ford near Ballyshannon. His body was swept down the cataract, recovered, and buried on the summit of the overlooking hill, where a large mound was raised over his grave. The waterfall and hill were named after him: Assaroe and Mullaghnashee.

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    his turn to reign for seven yeai s. Eed Hugh's turn was first, Mid fame round twice again, and towards the end of his third period he was drowned while attempting to cross the river Erne at one of the fords. The old king's body having been swept down the cataract, was recovered and buried on the summit of the hill overlooking the scene of the disaster, and over the grave was heaped up a mound sufficiently large to indicate the resting place of a king of Ireland. To the death and burial of Aedh Ruadfi, the waterfall and hill above, owe their name. The former being henceforth called Eos Ruadk, (now Assaroe) the latter Sidh . I Rw.idh (now Mullaghnashee).

    From the untimely end of the old king arose a series of events which culminated in the foundation of the celebrated palace of Eman i:i, which was the resort of tho Red Branch Knights, and kings of Ulster, for more than eight hundred years. King Bltadh left no son to succeed him on the throne of Ireland, bathe had a daughter — Macha of the golden-hair; a young lady who was as great a stickler for " women's rights " as any of the strong-minded sisterhood of tho nineteenth century ; Macha claimed her father's right to the seven years' i when her father's turn came round, but the other sovereigns refused to recognize a woman's claim to the crown, The stronghearted Macha was not to be put down ; she raised an army, and, after a fierce contest, made good her right by force of arms, Dibthorba was slain, and his fivo sons banished to the wilds of Connaught; bat the new queen, fearing danger might be brought about by the outlaws, followed them herself to their retreat and made them all prisoners. She spared their lives, on condition that they should become her vassal.-;, and by her command they f'uslructed the palace of Emana. The site of this celebrated resort is still to be seen in a field about two miles west of Armagh, Thus did our Waterfall become associated with some of the most important events in early Irish history.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 5

11. Quern destruction ordered at Kesh mills, Fermanagh, 1794

    near Kesh · village · Fermanagh · 1794

    In 1794 the proprietor of Kesh mills in County Fermanagh ordered his miller to break all the querns he could find, reflecting the conflict between water-mill owners and users of traditional hand-mills. One surviving pair was secretly lent about and concealed.

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    A remembrance of the industries of our ancestors is preserved in the names Garrickrtaronfa and Lugalustran, both names referring to the preparation and manufacture of corn into meat. On the shore below Wardtown are a series of sandstono rocks, their name, Carrie k-na-mbrointe, i.e. ih? rock of. the milt stones, shows that it was here the querns or ancient Irish hond-mirls of the district were obtained. Not long ago the Upper stone of a quern was found in the vicinity of these rocks, and as it is only partially shaped, it is evident that it must have been cnt whore it was quarried, and left by its maker in an unfinished state. In former times it was customary for families to grind their own corn in these primitive mills, which were similar to the Eastern onea, and the practice has only recently died out in some hackward parts of the country. The owners of water mills regarded; querns with great aversion, and in (heir interest the nse of querns was prohibited by law, In 1794, the proprietor of Kesh mills, in the neighbouring county of Fermanagh, gave orders to hiB miller to break all the querns he could find ; and the only pair left untouched used to be secretly lent about and concealed from the miller, with as much care as if it were a "still." Lii<jahi-itran t > i.e. the hollow of the burnt corn, is a place not far from the 41 Rock." It was here that corn used to be burned in the ear to, prepare it for the querns. This process of removing the hu^ka, continued in operation in sonic parts of the country a century ago, and was prohibited by parliament.

    In former chapters rofereneo has been made to the castles which belonged to our district, and to the interesting associate ns connected with their history. It is only necessary here to ei - nmeratc those remains of former strongholds which have not been already described. ___^__ :

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 41

12. Red Hugh's burial mound on Mullaghnashee obliterated for star fort

    Mullaghnashee · townland · Roscommon · 1798

    King Red Hugh (Aedh Ruadh) met his death in the rapid stream of Assaroe and was buried in a mound on Mullaghnashee. The last vestige of the mound was obliterated in 1798 when a star fort was constructed on the hilltop, hence the spot is now called Fort-kill.

    Read the passage

    Rations and kingdoms have arisen, flourished, and been overthrown, centuries upon centuries have passei 1 by since Red Hugh met his death in the rapid stream, and yet "the music of thu waterfall" sounds in onr ears as of old, and still rolls down, its ceaseless murmur mingling with the rougher hut more distant rumble of the Atlantic breakers. But of the regal grave, nothing now remains to mark the spot where the old king sleeps, the last vestige of the mound on Mullaghnashee having been, it is said, obliterated in 1798, when a star fort was constructed on the hill top, hence the spot is now called Fort-kilL It should be borne in mind that in early times, there were no dividing walls between the present churchyard, the paupers' burial ground, and the field adjoining, but that these collectively constituted Sidh Aedh Ruadh. The termination skee (sidh or sith) in the modern name. is of mythological, not historical, origin. The popular belief in fairies assigned to them as dwelling plucr-stlie ititeriur of "pli ■ hills," and from time immemorial, Mullaghnashee was regarded as a gentle spot. Another celebrated fairy resort was Shegus or Sheegy's hills (fairy hills), and close to the shore beneath, is Uaghnashet frog (the hill of the fairy dwellings). Besides these local habitations of the "gentle folk," tradition has handed down many marvellous accounts of their exploits, more especially among the sandhills, and in the 'Wardtown district; but the present is a dull matter-of-fact age, and the folk-lore of the good

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 6

13. Balor and the Fomorian tower on Tory Island

    Tory Island · townland · Donegal

    Tory Island, nine miles off the Donegal mainland in the barony of Kilmacrenagh, was the stronghold of the Fomorians under their chief Conning. A tower on a cliff at its eastern extremity is celebrated in old annals, and local traditions preserve tales of Balor of the mighty blows, a chief with a mortiferous eye.

    Read the passage

    colony of Scythians, called Nemedians, arrived ami occupied it, until they in their turn had to succumb to a stronger and moro warlike race named Fomorians, natives of Africa, who, under the command of Conning, their chief, established their bead-quarters on Tory Island. This island lies some nine miles from the mainland, and ia a part of the barony of Kilnmeremm, in the County Donegal. On a cliff, at its eastern extremity, was the tower celebrated in the old annals as

    " The tower of the island, the island of the tower, The citadel of Codnaing, the son of Todaiv' The exploits of "Babr of the mighty blows" are still preserved in the local traditions of the islanders. This Balor is represented as having one eye in the middle of his forehead, and another directly opposite, in the back of his head. This hinder eye was kept constantly closed, as it had a mortiferous power, and he only used it when ho wished to destroy an enemy. The accounts which tradition has handed down of this mighty chief, " bear a strong resemblance to some of the strange beings which Baron Munchausen mot with in hia voyages to the Dog Star ; possibly the writer of this satire on travellers' tales, who was said to have lived for some timo in Ireland, may have had this description of ''Balor of the hlows" in his mind's eye when he wrote his book.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 4

14. Castle of Rossclogher on island in Lough Melvin

    near Lough Melvin · lake or lakes · Fermanagh · 1421

    The castle of Rossclogher, chief residence of the MacClanchy chiefs, has picturesque remains still standing on an island in Lough Melvin. The Four Masters record that in 1421 Cathal O'Rourke made a nocturnal attack on MacClanchy on this island, took young MacClanchy prisoner, and seized the castle.

    Read the passage

    The castle of Bundroos" which proved such a thorn in the flesh to the O'Donnells, must not be confounded with the ruin which still exists in that neighbourhood. The tottering walls which wo see standing on an elevated mound near the roadside at Tollaghan, are the remains of the castle of Dun-cairbry (the fort or dan of Cairbre). It was erected in the 16th century by the MacClanehys, a clan who possessed the ancient district of Dartree or Dartry. The chief residence of these chiefs was the castle of Rossclogher, the picturesque reinaiDs of which are still standing on an island in Lough Melvin. The "Four Masters" thus refer to this island in the year 1421: — "Cathal O'Rourke and his sons made a nocturnal attack on MacClanchy on Inis&eeit, an island of Lough Melvin, and the guards of the lake delivered up the boats of the lake to them. They took young MacClanchy prisoner, and possessed themselves of Lough Melvin and its castle." The property of the MacClanchys was confiscated after the rebellion of 1641, but their name is still very common in the district.

    The princes of Tirconnell, like other great Irish chiefs, maintained a largo retinue of followers — historians, bards, and household officials, upon all of whom certain duties devolved, and to whom certain grants and privileges were accorded. Foremost among these were the Ollave*, or chief historians, whose residence was the castle of Eilbarron, Here, for many years lived the O'Sgingin family. One of them, Matthew O'Sgingin, was ollave, when Niall Garbh O'Donnell was Lord of Tirconnell. This O'Sgingin had no son to succeed him as hereditary historian, but he had an only and beautiful daughter, and at this time there arrived at the monastery of Assaroe a young man comely in appearance, and a proficient in both canon and civil laws; his name was Comiac O'CUry. He did not belong to the race of

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 15

15. Formal capture of Ballyshannon on New Year's Day 1603

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1603

    Docwra sent cannon which arrived on 20 March, and on 25 March (first day of 1603 in the old calendar) Captain Digges took the castle with far less effort than expected, bringing further advantages to the general service.

    Read the passage

    castle; promised as soon as I came homo to send him the Berry cannon, which before I had taken Aiuogh withall, gave iny ii]iiniriii howe he should proceeds in the use of it; tooke oath and pledges of the chief of the inhabitants thereabouts, and so returned. ... I sent away the cannon as soon as I canie home, and on the 20th March it arrived there, and on the 25th (being the first day of the year I G03),* was that fang desire*! ■ taken by the said Captain Digges, with lessc than a tenth park' of that charge which would have willinglie (been) bestowed upon it, and the consequence thereof brought many fnrtherana the genera] service."

    With the unexpected death of Red Hugh O'Donnell in Spain, and the capture of Bally shannon castle, both happening in the same year, the independence of Tirconnell came practically to an end. For though Bory O'DonneU. on his submission to James I.. got the title of Earl of Tirconnell, it proved but an empty luiii'Hir and faint reflection of the former greatness of this rein:! ftable family. Though not yet deprived of all his principality, Bory O'Donnell had henceforth no control over the castle of liiitly? Iniiiiu'ii. which was occupied by an English garrison, fn 1G07, the Earl of Tirconnell and the Earl of Tyrone were suspected by the English government of being in conspiracy to overthrow their rule in the North, and hearing of the feeling whiidi existed in Dublin Castle towards them, ODoiuicll and O'Neill, with many of their friends and followers, having regard to their personal freedom and safety, resolved to quit their native shores and seek an asylum in a foreign land. They embarked from Longh Swilly. The circumstance is thus referred to in the "Annals:" "They embarked on the festival of the Holy Cross, in Autumn. This was a distinguished company; and it is certain that the sea has not borne, and the wind has not wafted in modern times, a number of persons in one ship more eminent, illustrious, or noble, in poii fd°gy, heroic deeds, vnlonr, feats of arm-,

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 17

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon, you are in a town whose castle was taken on the 25th of March, the first day of the year 1603 in the old calendar. Docwra had promised to send cannon. He took oaths and pledges from the chief of the inhabitants thereabouts, then returned home and sent the cannon away. On the 20th of March it arrived. Five days later, Captain Digges took the castle, with, in Docwra's words,

16. Military burial of Lieutenant McGovern in Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1802

    The body of Lieutenant McGovern, killed in a duel at Laputa, was brought to Ballyshannon and buried with military honours. His brother officers placed a tombstone with a curious epitaph over his grave.

    Read the passage

    The body of the fallen man was bronght to Ballyshannon, and buried with military honours in AinUagtinashee. He was a favourite in his regiment and great sorrow was felt amongst his <i unrades for his untimely end. The anger of the soldiers against Henderson waxed so hot that they attacked his honso in Castle Street, and lie had to escape from his dwelling to avoid summary vengeance being wreaked upon him,

    A tombstone, with a curious epitaph,* was placed over the grave of McGoveru by his brother officers.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon, near where Lieutenant McGovern was buried in 1802 after being killed in a duel. His body was brought and buried with military honours in AinUagtinashee. He was a favourite in his regiment and great sorrow was felt among his comrades for his untimely end. The soldiers' anger against Henderson ran so hot they attacked his house in Castle Street and he had to flee his dwelling to escape their vengeance. His brother officers placed a tombstone over his grave with a curious epitaph.

17. Bingham's Raid on Tory Island

    Tory Island · townland · Donegal · 1585–1625

    During Queen Elizabeth's reign, Bingham, governor of Connaught, raided Tory Island, destroying and pillaging the monastery. The islanders did not submit, and under James I, Sir Henry Folliot was reimbursed for hiring a boat and crew for a five-week expedition to surprise Tory.

    Read the passage

    We have already spoken of Tory Island as having been the head-quarters of the warlike tribe of Fomorians, but there are other and more pleasing associations connected with the island, for even to this wild secluded spot St. Columba found his way, and there founded a church and monastery. The monastery, according to the M Monasticon Eibernmtm" was founded in the year 650, and St. Ernan, son of Colman, was first abbot. This monastery continued to flourish through many ages down to the time of Queen Elizabeth, when Bingham, governor of Connaught, made a raid upon the island, destroying and pillaging all before him. It seems, however, that the Tory islanders did not even then submit to English rule, for in the "treasury papers" (time of James I.) we find the following entry : "To Sir Henry Follyot, Knt., for money by him disbursed for the hire of one boat, two mariners, and ten sailors, that were employed by the fpace of five weeks at the surprising of Torrey — ,£29 Gs. 8d."

    3

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 9

18. Castle of Ballyshannon built by O'Donnell

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1423

    The castle of Ballyshannon was built in 1423 by Neal Garv O'Donnell. Its site was chosen to command the principal ford of the river, and it was regarded as an important military post and the chief gateway of Tirconnell. Only a portion of one of the walls now remains.

    Read the passage

    It was at the latter date that the castle of Ballyshannon was built by Neal Garv O'Donnell. From its close proximity to the rival kingdom of Connaught, and from the fact of its being a seaport, the place was regarded as an important military post — in short, as the chief gateway of Tirconnell.

    The site of the castle was chosen that it might command the principal ford of the river — the ford of Athseattaigh. Bridges, it should be remembered, are of comparatively modern introduction

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Ballyshannon, in Donegal. In 1423 Neal Garv O'Donnell built a castle here. He chose the site to command the principal ford of the river, the ford of Athseattaigh. The place sat close to the rival kingdom of Connaught and served as a seaport, so it was seen as an important military post, the chief gateway of Tirconnell. Only a portion of one wall remains today.

19. Fomorian tribute at Magh Geidne (the Moy)

    Moy · townland · Donegal

    The plain of Magh Geidne, situated between the Drowse river and Lough Erne, was the scene of cruel exactions where the Fomorians of Tory compelled the Nemedians to pay annual tribute on 1st November. The tribute consisted of two parts of their children, cattle, milk, butter, and wheat.

    Read the passage

    According to the old chronicles, Magh Gceidne* (the Moy), situate between Drobhaois (the ancient name for the Drowas liver) and Eirno (Lough Erne) was the scene of great oppression and cruel exactions, for it was here that the Fomorians of Tory compelled the Nemedians to pay over their annual tribute on the 1st November, This tribute consisted of "tivo parts of their children, cattle, milk, butter, and wheat." A woman it is said, was employed as "cess collector," and this amazon, no doubt supported by an armed force, compelled each family to contribute their portion.

    Respecting these notices of the primitive history of Ireland

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 4

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Magh Geidne, the plain between the Drowse river and Lough Erne. The old chronicles say it was a place of great oppression. Each year on the 1st of November the Fomorians of Tory forced the Nemedians to pay tribute here, two parts of their children, cattle, milk, butter, and wheat. A woman served as what the chronicles call a cess collector, and she, no doubt backed by armed force, made each family give up their portion.

20. Forest rocks at the Bar where trees once met the tide

    The Bar · sand bank · Donegal

    Near the Bar, where the Erne meets the Atlantic, rugged rocks known as the 'forest rocks' once marked the limit of trees whose roots were washed by tidal waves. The removal of extensive forests likely brought significant climatic changes to the district.

    Read the passage

    The Moy at one time was an extensive forest, and trees grew even to the water's edge, on that now treeless wind-swept region of Ballymaeward and Kildoney. Near to the Bar those rugged rocks known as the "forest rocks" once marked the limit of treea whose roots must have been washed by the tidal waves. The climatic changes brought about by the removal of such extensive planting must have been considerable; among these an increased temperature and a diminished rainfall were probably the most important. Ballyshannon now enjoys a comparatively warm temperature, which is owing in a great measure to the heating influence of the Gulf Stream.* The isothermal line (or line of mean annual temperature) which passes .Vienna, London, &c., reaches its highest latitude about 80 miles north-west of Bundoran.

    The average yearly rainfall at Ballyshannon, of which a daily register has being kept since 1st January, 1874. is 41-64 inches.? Our district, though wetter than some places on the east coast, is much dryer than the southern and more western portions of Ireland. ^ Moreover it is in a great measure free from the cold easterly winds. Westerly and south- wester 1 v e urrents prevailing during the greater part of the year.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about The Bar, those rugged rocks known as the forest rocks once marked the limit of trees whose roots were washed by the tidal waves. The Moy was an extensive forest, and trees grew even to the water's edge across the now treeless, wind-swept region of Ballymaeward and Kildoney. The removal of such extensive planting must have brought considerable climatic changes. An increased temperature and a diminished rainfall were probably the most important among these. Ballyshannon now enjoys a comparatively warm temperature, owing in great measure to the heating influence of the Gulf Stream. The isothermal line that passes Vienna and London reaches its highest latitude about 80 miles north-west of Bundoran. The average yearly rainfall at Ballyshannon, where a daily register has been kept since 1st January 1874, is 41.64 inches. The district is wetter than some places on the east coast but much drier than the southern and more western portions of Ireland, and is largely free from cold easterly winds. Westerly and southwesterly currents prevail during the greater part of the year.

21. Patrick Conolly's inn in Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1640–1660

    About the middle of the 17th century, Patrick Conolly kept a small inn in Ballyshannon, located on or near the ground now occupied by the new bank building. His son William was taken to Dublin by gentlemen sent to secure members for the Irish parliament, and eventually became Speaker of the Irish House of Commons.

    Read the passage

    About the middle of the 17th century there lived in Ballyshannon a man named Patrick Cmoll'f, He kept a small inn, which stood on or near to the ground now occupied by the new bank building. He had a sou named William who lived with hint, ami it happened that there came to Ballyshannon two gentlemen who were sen I to secure the return of members to the Drish parliament. They lodged at Conolly's inn, and perceiving that William was ;IM unusually Mustrt, i lligcut hoy, thej induced him i<> follow

    • The Whitlow Tuv iiu* first Imposed l>y William III. in lr;.-,!l, f,.r Hi..- purpose of nrnkinggood the deficiency m the coinage, ceased by the practice of eliuuiim luunev,- Harris'* * History ot the tjte M d Reign o[ Williiun III."

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon, about the middle of the 17th century there lived here a man named Patrick Conolly. He kept a small inn, which stood on or near the ground now occupied by the new bank building. He had a son named William who lived with him. It happened that two gentlemen came to Ballyshannon, sent to secure the return of members to the Irish parliament. They lodged at Conolly's inn, and perceiving that William was an unusually intelligent boy, they induced him to follow them to Dublin. William Conolly went on to become Speaker of the Irish House of Commons.

22. Ford of Athseattaigh — ancient river crossing

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    The ford of Athseattaigh lay a little above the present bridge and was an artificially constructed ford. Its remains can still be seen as stones in the riverbed when the water is low in dry summer. It was the principal ford of the river at Ballyshannon.

    Read the passage

    into thia country; even two and a half centuries ago they wire far from general in Ireland; for we find a writer of that period saying concerning the fords: "It is to be observed that not everywhere, where the highways meet with great brooks, or small rivers, bridges are found for to pass them, but in very many places one is constrained to ride through the water itself."* The ford of Athseanaigh lay a little above the present bridge, it was one of the class of artificially constructed fords, as its remains still testify, though it is only when the river is low of a dry summer that the stones now remaining, can be seen. It has been suggested to the writer by a gentleman of great antiquarian knowledge, that the large "standing stone" in the "big meadow," in College Lane, may have been used in former times in conjunction with another large stone now prostrate, near "Tom Pye's bridge," as a landmark of this ford; and it is worthy of notice, that a line drawn across the river from one stone to the other would exactly indicate the course of the ford. Although however, the "standing stone" in the big meadow might have been nsed as a landmark, it is not to be supposed that it was erected for that purpose. From its name, Ctoughnamme (CJochna-nogham), i.e. the stone of the ogums, or ogham-inscription, thia stone doubtless belongs to the class of "standing," or pillar stones, which were erected in ancient times to mark the spot on which some important event occurred. Upon these stones are frequently fonnd ogham characters (a species of rock inscriptions used in times of remoto antiquity), in the example of which we are speaking, no traces of rock writing are now observable ; perhaps they have been obliterated by time, or by the vandalism of some past generation ; or it may be that tie inscription was cut on the end placed m the ground. That such was sometimes done the following extract shows. In an account of the battle of Ollarba, fonght in a.d. 285, it is stated, "there is a pillar stone at the cairn of Fothadh, and an ognm is on the end of the pillarstone which is in the earth."f W hile speaking of these cnrions

    ■ Boate's Natural History of Ireland. t Treatise on the Kound Towers ot Ireland, by Dr. Petrle.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon in Donegal, you are crossing a river that for centuries was forded rather than bridged. A writer two and a half centuries ago noted that in Ireland, not everywhere that a highway met a river did you find a bridge. In very many places, he said, one was constrained to ride through the water itself. The ford of Athseattaigh lay a little above the present bridge. It was an artificially constructed ford, and its remains still testify to that, though only when the river is low in a dry summer can the stones now remaining be seen in the riverbed. It was the principal ford of the river here at Ballyshannon. A gentleman of great antiquarian knowledge suggested to the author that the large standing stone in the big meadow in College Lane may have been used in former times, together with another large stone now prostrate near Tom Pye's bridge, as a landmark for this ford. A line drawn across the river from one stone to the other would exactly indicate the course of the ford. That standing stone, however, was not likely erected for that purpose. From its name, Cloch-na-nogham, meaning the stone of the ogams, or ogham inscriptions, it doubtless belongs to the class of pillar stones erected in ancient times to mark the spot where some important event occurred. No traces of ogham writing are now observable on it. Perhaps they were obliterated by time or by vandalism, or the inscription may have been cut on the end placed in the ground. That was sometimes done. In an account of the battle of Ollarba, fought in 285, it is stated that there is a pillar stone at the cairn of Fothadh, and an ogham is on the end of the pillar stone which is in the earth.

23. Baron of Inchiquin buried at Assaroe monastery

    Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal · 1597

    After the 1597 siege, Cormac O'Clery, a monk of Assaroe, recovered the body of the Baron of Inchiquin from the river and interred his remains with solemnity in the monastery burial-ground. The friars of Donegal Abbey later contested that the body should have been buried with them.

    Read the passage

    After tilings had settled down in Bally shannon to their acenstomed quiet, Cormac O'Clery, one of the monks of Assaroe, recovered, after careful search, the body of the Baron of Inchiquin: his remains were interred with all due solemnity in tho Monastery burial-ground. However, the friars of Donegal Abbey hearing of this, contended that the body should be buried

    * From thin memorable engagement ihe ford gut its nunc Casan-na-Cumiilh, i.e. the p«h of the ehunplom.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at Assaroe. After the 1597 siege, Cormac O'Clery, one of the monks of Assaroe, recovered the body of the Baron of Inchiquin and interred his remains with due solemnity in the monastery burial-ground. The friars of Donegal Abbey, hearing of this, contended the body should be buried with them.

24. Cholera plague of 1832 at Bundoran and Ballyshannon

    Bundoran · town · Donegal · 1832

    In the summer of 1832 a terrible cholera plague broke out, first appearing at Bundoran, supposedly carried by a smack from Liverpool. Ballyshannon suffered 93 deaths and 152 recoveries, and the panic gave a serious check to the town's trade.

    Read the passage

    In the summer of 1832, the terrible plague of cholera broke out in this town and neighbourhood. It first appeared at Bnndoran, and it was supposed the disease was carried there by a smack from Liverpool which called to take in salmon. The mortality of BallyshannoD during that dreadful visitation was small, compared with many neighbouring towns, bnt the panic which prevailed at that time, gave a serious check to the trade of the town. The total number of deaths from cholera itr Ballyslmnnon was 93; recoveries, 1.V2.

    In 1835, the exports were 10,704 quarters of oats, value, XI 1,1 30, and the imports amounted to .£9,524.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bundoran, this is where the cholera plague of 1832 first broke out. It was summer. The disease was supposed to have been carried here by a smack from Liverpool, which had called to take in salmon. From Bundoran it spread through Ballyshannon and the neighbourhood. Ballyshannon lost 93 people, with 152 recoveries. The mortality was small compared with many neighbouring towns, but the panic that prevailed gave a serious check to the trade of the town. By 1835 the exports were 10,704 quarters of oats, valued at 11,130, and imports amounted to 9,524.

25. Elizabeth Dixon of Main Street, Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1700–1759

    A lady named Elizabeth Dixon lived on Main Street in Ballyshannon, where her relatives were engaged in the wine trade. She left the town for England around the mid-18th century and became the mother of writer Mary Wollstonecraft.

    Read the passage

    Early in the last century, there lived in Ballyshannon a lady named Elizabeth Dixon, some of whose relatives are supposed to have been engaged in the wine trade, and to have resided in the

    84 mOGJiAl'IIICAL ANli liti.i;ai;t notices.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 32

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon, there lived here early in the last century a lady named Elizabeth Dixon. Some of her relatives are supposed to have been engaged in the wine trade, and to have resided in the town.

26. Sarsfield camps at Tullaghan to threaten Ballyshannon

    Tullaghan · town · Leitrim · 1689

    In July 1689, Sarsfield and his Jacobite forces took up a position at Tullaghan with the aim of capturing Ballyshannon. The town was too well defended, and after news of the defeat at Newtownbutler reached him, Sarsfield abandoned the plan and withdrew to Sligo.

    Read the passage

    At that disturbed period there were no high-roads in tho district, and the Jacobites held the only "pass" which existed. This was bounded on the mn' sUe I v t he lake, awl on the other by a bog. Nothwltlistniidiiig all this, Lloyd, being better acquainted with the country, siu-reeded in Hanking the enemy, who turned anil Bed without firing a shot. The Jacobite losses were 19 0 horse, slain in pursuit. Most of the foot soldiers escaped through a bog in the May, and made good their retreat to Sligo. Some, however, of Sarsfield's men fled to Ballyshannon, where they took refuge on the inland of Inis-samor, Thaie refugees, to the number of sixty, were soon made prisoners, und thus ended the engagement, the Inniskillmexs baring only one man wounded. The siege was then raised, but in July, Sarsfield and his men once more took up their position at Tullagluui, with the view of gaining possession of Ballyshanuon. Tho town was, however, too well prepared to afford them an opportunity for attack, and the sharp repulse they had received a couple of months hi- fore, taught. them that "discretion was the better part of valour.'' On the ' ■veiling of the day (28th July, 1689) on which Derry was relieved, a message was sent to Ballyshanuon, asking for help at Crom, which was besieged by Lord Monnteashel. The gallant officers in command at Baliyshannon, remembering how receutly they had received valuable aid from the Imiiskilliners, at once complied with tho request, and notwithstanding the presence of the enemy v miles off, between 400 and 500 men were despatched. Having arrived at Enniskilleu, after their loug march from i'allyshaimon, I hey declared themselves ready to go on without resting that same night,* The battle of Netvtoimibutler on the 31st July, which resulted in the total rout of the Jacobites, having reached the ears of Sarsfield as he lay at TnUaghan, induced him to give np Ins design of attacking Ballyshanuon, and he consequently withdrew his men to Sligo.

    * A few days before a vessel had arrived at EaUrxhannou from Derry with arms and Ammunition for Ronlski I l./n, which \v<:rir lamled here, and lit once transmitted by Lough Krne to their il^l'inti.: n. Tho friKTito *' Biiiuld Ventura " also called At UallyghUDnoil to H-Ttiiin tho »t*te of the garrison here aiwl at Elinisklihm.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 22

27. O'Donnell Castle at Ballyshannon and discovered bones

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    The O'Donnell castle at Ballyshannon occupied ground now used for market purposes, extending along the river bank. Human bones were discovered in a garden close to the castle walls, and further bones were found on the south bank of the river during gas pipe laying, believed to belong to warriors who fell in battles of the ford.

    Read the passage

    part of which is incorporated with a grain store, and part with a butter shed on the north side of the market yard. The castle buildings doubtless occupied the whole or greater part of the ground now used for market purposes, and probably extended some way furl her up the river bank, and from its "well battle- ■d" towers were poured many a volley of bullets and other missiles on the luckless enemies without. The eaetle park (;i still preserved in some old leases of adjacent premises) extended almost, if not entirely to the summit of the hill northward oi the castle ; and long after the building was demolished, a quantity of human bones was discovered in a garden close to astJe walls; and within the past few years a further discovery oi bones was made upon the south hank of the river, whili road was being opened for the laying down of gas pipes. These remains doubtless belong to the period of the O'Donuells, when many a warrior fell in the battles of the ford. Besides tbc ford of Athseauaigh, there were other fords on the river which were occasionally used. One of these was about half a mile we Uelleek, the ford of Aih-cul-nni/i. There was another iVdown, under Laputa ; this ford was commanded by a small fortress, the walls of which are still standing on the south bank of the river, at Cherrytnount. This "keep" was built on the summit of an artificially constructed mound, so that the soldiers in charge might have better command of the river below.* Yet another ford, but only seldom used, owing to the difficulties and dangers attached to it, was Citsan-na-g-curaidk (the path of the champi i mined lately above the waterfall, where the old king was drowned. The regular military force of Tireonnell, under the command of O'Donncll, consisted of 1,500 foot, and 800 horse; of these, 200 foot soldiers and 40 horsemen were usually kept in the castle of Ballyshannon, but their number was further augmented in times of need by additional detachments. The western limit of

    • This fortress seems to have fallen Into disuse before the time of Out-en Elia as In oil old map of that period, preserved la the Public Hecord Oflfce, Luntton, Ttua buJMJjw l» marked m " mi olde cartel! " mid is represented is a ruin, while itallysh

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 14

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead, the road brings you into Ballyshannon, in Donegal. The O'Donnell castle once stood on ground now used for market purposes, its buildings occupying the greater part of that ground and probably extending some way up the river bank. Part of what remains is incorporated with a grain store, and part with a butter shed on the north side of the market yard. From its well-battlemented towers, many a volley of bullets and other missiles were poured on enemies without. The castle park, still preserved in some old leases of adjacent premises, extended almost to the summit of the hill northward of the castle. Long after the building was demolished, a quantity of human bones was discovered in a garden close to the castle walls. Within the past few years, a further discovery of bones was made on the south bank of the river, while a road was being opened for the laying down of gas pipes. These remains doubtless belong to the period of the O'Donnells, when many a warrior fell in the battles of the ford. The regular military force of Tyrconnell, under the command of O'Donnell, consisted of 1,500 foot and 800 horse. Of these, 200 foot soldiers and 40 horsemen were usually kept in the castle of Ballyshannon, and their number was further augmented in times of need by additional detachments. There were other fords on the river occasionally used besides the ford of Athseanaigh. One was about half a mile west at Belleek, the ford of Ath-cul-nuir. Another lay downstream, under Laputa, commanded by a small fortress whose walls still stand on the south bank at Cherryfield, built on the summit of an artificially constructed mound. Yet another ford, seldom used owing to the dangers attached to it, was Cissan-na-g-curaidh, the path of the champions, examined lately above the waterfall where the old king was drowned.

28. Donegal Bay whale fishery scheme 1736

    near Donegal Bay · bay · Donegal · 1736–1763

    In 1736 a scheme was set on foot to establish a whale fishery in Donegal Bay, with boats built on the Greenland model and a £500 grant from the Irish parliament. The enterprise was abandoned after expending £3,000, as rough seas made capture nearly impossible.

    Read the passage

    The Aquatic Mammalia are represented by the pliocklee, (seal family) which often visit the estuary, coming up close to the Fall in search of fish. The seals frequent the numerous caves along the coast of Donegal Bay, from whence they make excursions to the neighbouring rivers. Porpoises aro often seen airing themselves in Hi" vicinity of Kilbarrou Castle and Coolmore, and whales are frequently seen in Donegal Bay. Iu the summer of lC91,a sperm whale (cehts dcntalus% which measured seveuty-oue feet in length, was captured close to Ballyshannon Bar. Iu the last century, whales were so numerous in the bay that a scheme was set on foot in 173C for establishing a whale fishery. Boats were built upon the Greenland model, and furnished with harpoons, and other instruments, and a grant of £."jOO was made by the Irish parliament. The enterprise was, however, unsuccessful, as it was found that the general roughness of the sea, compa rei 1 w iili the smooth water at Greenland, rendered the capture of the whales (though many were seen) next to impossible. The company who carried on these operations ex-

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 44

29. King Brian Boru visited the Cataract of Eas Ruadh

    Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal

    King Brian Boru, in one of his annual progresses through Ireland, visited the Cataract of Eas Ruadh (Assaroe). The waterfall was styled a Royal Cataract in an old tale entitled 'The Banquet of Dunagay and the Battle of Moira.'

    Read the passage

    leaving the north side to be blessed by his successor, CoUwii CiU< , whose advent he foretold. At a later period. King Brian Bvru, in one of his annual progresses through Ireland, visited the Cataract. It has therefore not been inappropriately styled a Royal Cataract, in an old tale entitled "The Banquet of Dunagay and the Battle of Moira." "The clear- watered, snowy-foamed, ever-roaring, in-salmon- abounding, beautiful old torrent, whose celebrated well known name is the lofty, great, clear-landed, contentions, precipitate, load-roaring, headstrong, rapid, salmonfnll, sea-monster-full, varying, in-large-Qsh-abounding, royal ami prosperous Cataract of Eas Ruadh" ! 1

    Rations and kingdoms have arisen, flourished, and been overthrown, centuries upon centuries have passei 1 by since Red Hugh met his death in the rapid stream, and yet "the music of thu waterfall" sounds in onr ears as of old, and still rolls down, its ceaseless murmur mingling with the rougher hut more distant rumble of the Atlantic breakers. But of the regal grave, nothing now remains to mark the spot where the old king sleeps, the last vestige of the mound on Mullaghnashee having been, it is said, obliterated in 1798, when a star fort was constructed on the hill top, hence the spot is now called Fort-kilL It should be borne in mind that in early times, there were no dividing walls between the present churchyard, the paupers' burial ground, and the field adjoining, but that these collectively constituted Sidh Aedh Ruadh. The termination skee (sidh or sith) in the modern name. is of mythological, not historical, origin. The popular belief in fairies assigned to them as dwelling plucr-stlie ititeriur of "pli ■ hills," and from time immemorial, Mullaghnashee was regarded as a gentle spot. Another celebrated fairy resort was Shegus or Sheegy's hills (fairy hills), and close to the shore beneath, is Uaghnashet frog (the hill of the fairy dwellings). Besides these local habitations of the "gentle folk," tradition has handed down many marvellous accounts of their exploits, more especially among the sandhills, and in the 'Wardtown district; but the present is a dull matter-of-fact age, and the folk-lore of the good

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 6

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at Assaroe is the Cataract of Eas Ruadh. King Brian Boru, in one of his annual progresses through Ireland, visited this waterfall. Because of that visit, it was not inappropriately styled a Royal Cataract, in an old tale entitled The Banquet of Dunagay and the Battle of Moira. The old description of the place calls it, in its own words, the clear watered, snowy-foamed, ever-roaring, salmon abounding, beautiful old torrent, and goes on with a long roll of names for it: lofty, great, precipitate, headstrong, rapid, salmon-full, sea-monster-full, royal and prosperous Cataract of Eas Ruadh. Nations and kingdoms have arisen, flourished, and been overthrown, and centuries upon centuries have passed since Red Hugh met his death in the rapid stream. Yet the music of the waterfall still sounds in our ears as of old, rolling down its ceaseless murmur, mingling with the rougher but more distant rumble of the Atlantic breakers. Of the regal grave, nothing now remains to mark the spot where the old king sleeps. The last vestige of the mound on Mullaghnashee was, it is said, obliterated in 1798, when a star fort was constructed on the hilltop, and the spot is now called Fort-kil. In early times there were no dividing walls between the present churchyard, the paupers burial ground, and the field adjoining. These collectively constituted Sidh Aedh Ruadh. The termination skee is of mythological, not historical, origin. From time immemorial, Mullaghnashee was regarded as a gentle spot, a fairy dwelling.

30. Murdering kote tradition at Kilbarron Castle

    Kilbarron · townland · Donegal

    Popular tradition at Kilbarron Castle pointed out a 'murdering kote' through which the bodies of hapless victims were said to have been hurled into the sea. The author dismisses this as entirely without foundation, noting the castle was wrongly supposed to have belonged to freebooters.

    Read the passage

    Tirconnell, bis family being of the county Gatway. nnvcrth> the monks perceiving that the young stranger was of good morals, wisdom, and intellect, invited him to stay for a time at the monastery. It was during O'Clery's stay there that he bee acquainted with the old ollave of Kilbarron, and became the fortunate possessor of CSgingin'a handsome daughter. It was customary in Ireland, as well as in some other countries, that the husband should make a present to his wife's father. In this the only dower the ollave demanded, was that in the event son being born to them, he should be trained up in ! be knowledge of literature and history, so as to become a worthy successor to the now almost extinct race of the O'Sgiugins. In due time ;i sou was born to Connac and O'Sgingin's daughter, and the parents did not forget to carry out the wishes of the ollave. Thus, the family of theO'Clerys became regularly installed hi the office of historians of Tirconnell, and in the quiet and seclusion <>i'i heir rock-bound dwelling at Kilbarron, they laid the found:, of a literary fame, destined to survive the wreck of their castle and their worldly fortunes. The castle of Kilbarron has ui-njigly supposed by some to have belonged to a tribe of lawless freebooters, who chose its isolated position as being best suited to their plundering designs; and popular tradition still points out the "murdering kote," through which the bodies of hapless victims used to be hurled into the sea, Such a supposit ion is, however, entirely without foundation. As to the precise date of its erection, historical records do not inform us, but it. is probable that it was originally built by some of the O'Sgingin family in the thirteenth or fourteenth century. The "Annals" state that the castle of Kilbarron was rased to the ground by Dounell, sou of Mortogh O'Connor,* in 1300. It was probably afterwards re-edified by Cormac CClery, but the "stouo houses," the remains of which are now standing, were built at a subsequent period by the thrw sons of Teige Cam (or, the stooped) O'Clery, whose names were

    • It w»s this family of O'Connor who subsequently built Bundmos Castle already refercd to.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 15

31. Salmon fishing heritage on the Erne at Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    Ballyshannon has been a favoured destination for anglers since time immemorial, with the Erne praised by Sir Humphrey Davy as the premier salmon river in the British dominions for bank fishing. Local fly-tiers and expert guides were essential to the sport, knowing every pool and curve of the river.

    Read the passage

    This shows the average annual weight of fish taken, for the seven years enumerated, to be about sixty tons, As many as 2,000 fish have been taken in one day, and 400 in a single haul. The average weight is about 9 lbs> \>ul many much heavier fish are often caught. From time immemorial Ballyshannon has been a favourite resort of gentlemen fond of the "gentle art" of Isaac Walton, and no inconsiderable sum is circulated in the town through their annual visits. Sir Humphrey Davy, who more than once enjoyed the pleasure of angling on our river, thus mentions it in \\\-i Salnumia — L 'I should place the Erne, at Bnllyshannon, as now tho first river for salmon fishing from the banks with a rod, in the British dominions; and the excellent proprietor of it, Dr. SheiJy id liberal and courteous to all gentlemen fly fishers. ... I have taken in the Erne two or three large salmon in the morning." In another part of his book, Sir Humphrey describes the peculiarities of tho Gillaroo trout, and mentions having caught them at Longh Melvin. Tho I rede of fly-tying has always been profitably followed in Ballyshannon, and thetown has always possessed persons well skilled iu the mysteries of the art ; indeed without the assistance of sach experts, who know every curve and pool in the river, and who watch the atmospheric changes with as much assiduity as the staff of the Meteorological office, it would be impossible for strangers to obtain good sport,

    8

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ballyshannon, you are passing through a town that has drawn anglers since time immemorial. The Erne here was a salmon river of remarkable yield. Over seven enumerated years, the average annual weight of fish taken ran to about sixty tons. As many as 2,000 fish were taken in one day, and 400 in a single haul. The average fish weighed about 9 lbs, with many heavier ones often caught. No inconsiderable sum circulated in the town through the gentlemen's annual visits. Sir Humphrey Davy angled on the river more than once and wrote in his Salmonia: "I should place the Erne, at Ballyshannon, as now the first river for salmon fishing from the banks with a rod, in the British dominions." He credited the proprietor, Dr. Sheil, as liberal and courteous to all gentlemen fly fishers, and noted he had taken in the Erne two or three large salmon in the morning. Elsewhere in his book Davy described the Gillaroo trout and mentioned catching them at Lough Melvin. Fly-tying was always profitably followed in Ballyshannon, and the town always had people well skilled in the mysteries of the art. Without such experts, who knew every curve and pool in the river and watched the atmospheric changes with as much assiduity as the staff of the Meteorological Office, it would have been impossible for strangers to obtain good sport.

32. The Hawk of Ballyshannon — Carolan's song

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    Carolan, the great Irish musician, wrote and composed a song titled 'The Hawk of Ballyshannon' or 'O'More's Fair Daughter,' celebrating a woman associated with Ballyshannon. The song was translated into English by Thomas Furlong.

    Read the passage

    Another feminine name associated with our river, but of a very different class, is that of "O'More's Fair Daughter," or "The Hawk of Ballyshannon." This is the title of a song written and composed by Carol an. the great Irish musician. It was finely translated into English by Thomas Furlong; tho ode, which contains seventy-one lines, is too long for insertion here, but as a specimen, we may quote the following: — "Kejolee ! rejoice ! with harp aud voice,

    For the Hawk of Erne is near us ;

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Ballyshannon, in Donegal. Carolan, the great Irish musician, wrote and composed a song called "The Hawk of Ballyshannon," also known as "O'More's Fair Daughter." It celebrates a woman associated with this place. Thomas Furlong translated it into English. The ode runs to 71 lines. The song opens with the words, "Kejolee, rejoice, with harp and voice, For the Hawk of Erne is near us."

33. Underground chamber discovered in churchyard, 1831

    Mullaghnashee · townland · Roscommon · 1831

    In autumn 1831, while digging a grave in the centre of the churchyard on Mullaghnashee, the sexton discovered a subterranean chamber roofed with flat stones, running in a north-westerly direction. The heart-shaped chamber, about 9 feet by 6 feet, was closed up without proper examination.

    Read the passage

    Iti the autumn of 1831 a curious discovery was made in Hie churchyard. As the sexton and grave-digger were opening a grave in Die centre of the churchyard, they were arrested in their work by coming on some large flat stones, which on examination proved to be the roofing Bags of a anbtereaaeaa chamberrunrung in a north- wo U-Hy directions this unexpected "find" was thus described by an eye witness: "By the time the corpse (foMlie reception of which the grave was being made) waa brought into the burial ground, attended by its sorrowing friends, and while the- procession was slowly proceeding to the grave, it was interrupted by a voice saying "don't go there, the place is not safe;" the procession immediately stopped, and the affrighted sexton drew near to explain the cause. He said that when lie had removed the clay, to the depth of about time feet, the crowbar ho was using to loosen the earth, suddenly disappeared all but about four inches, and that in endeavouring to pull up his bar he perceived a hole, on looking into which he saw a vault of considerable size. Here there was a general ejaculation '"Heaven preserve us." The corpse was then interred in another part of the yard, and a few of the bystanders cautiously approached the dreaded spot, and one who ventured to look in said he thought he smelt sulphur !! The chamber which is said to be heart-shaped —9 feet long by G feet wide — was subsequently closed, and it is to be regretted that it was not examined by some one of antiquarian knowledge, as it probably formed part of that system o' &ouU rrains or artificial caves and passages, whose ramifications began in theliooley Bawnand extended up the hill of Duugravnen, to the summit of Mullaglmashee. This kind of cave-construction is believed by antiquarians to bo the oldest existing example of the builders' art in Ireland.

    In the churchyard of Mullaghnashee are some tombstones which from their age or qnaintness of inscription, possess con. sidcrable interest for the curious. At the period of the removal of the old church in 1S41, several tombstones had to be removed for the puqiose of clearing ths ground for the foundation of the

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 24

34. Coolmore cromlech treasure legend and supernatural punishment

    Coolmore · townland · Cork

    A cromlech at Coolmore, known as a giant's grave, was reputed to contain treasure. Two men who attempted to dig into the sacred enclosure reportedly found their feet miraculously fastened to their spade shafts upon striking the ground.

    Read the passage

    only just enough remains to mark their position, and prevent their name from being altogether blotted out. The owner of the land on which the largest of these cromlechs stood, is said to have broken up the flags (which were limestone) and filled a limekiln with the fragments, bat tradition says that " no power on earth could burn one of them," This giant's grave as well as the Coolmore one, was supposed to contain treasure, and it is related that two men who went to search the enclosure had hardly struck their spades iuto the sacred ground when they fount! their feet miraculously fastened to their spade shafts ! In the cromlech which stood at the back of Eowantreehill was found, a good many years ago, a cinerary uru containing ashes and several hones of largo size. Nearer Ballyshannon, and close to Fortwillio.nl, are the remains of a cromlech which preserves in its Irish name Leaba-an-laeich, (pronounced Labbinleo) a remembrance of the object for which it was erected — the word signifying the bed, or grave of the hero.

    In Fiuner Warren are three examples, one of which was unroofed some years ago and found to contain an urn full of burnt human bones. In the same locality is also a stone circle, and a chambered caim, which was discovered by some labourers while engaged in building a wall in the warren. In this sepulchral cave which is artificially constructed, were found portions of several human skeletons, the teeth in somo of the skulls being in good preservation. Iu this case there was no evidence of cremation having been used. This form of cairn burial is supposed to be of great antiquity.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 40

35. Allingham's 'Goblin Child of Ballyshannon' and the old bridge gate

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1780–1870

    William Allingham's poem 'The Goblin Child of Ballyshannon' graphically describes a regiment marching through Ballyshannon's old bridge gate on a wintry evening ninety years before the poem's writing. The poem connects the old barrack and bridge to local supernatural lore.

    Read the passage

    The circumstance is graphically described in a poem entitled the "Goblin Child of Ballyshannon," by William Allingnam:— " A Kegiment, filing row by row, One evening ninety years ago, As wintry dusk was drawing late. Through Bally shannon's old bridge.gate. Changed pass-words with the pacing guard, Li:[!-k1u'.Ji.'i1 into the barrack-yard, And halted willingly— for tired The men wore, drooping, soaked, and mirad ; And ev'e the highest in command, With trembling knee and fevered haDd, Felt on his horse almost as jaded And glad to end the march aa they did.

    No wonder then that he withdrew Betimes to bed ; and though 'twas true, His quarters here proved strange enough ; Suntched as they seemed, with trimming rough, From long disuse ; yet in a pile Heaped on the hearth in good old style,

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 37

    As the companion tells it

    Ballyshannon, ahead on the road. William Allingham wrote a poem called the Goblin Child of Ballyshannon about a regiment marching through the town's old bridge gate one wintry evening ninety years before the poem was written. The soldiers filed row by row as dusk drew late, changed passwords with the pacing guard, and marched into the barrack yard. They halted willingly. The men were tired, drooping, soaked, and mired. Even the highest in command, with trembling knee and fevered hand, felt his horse almost as jaded and was glad to end the march. He withdrew betimes to bed. His quarters proved strange enough, rough trimmed from long disuse, but a pile was heaped on the hearth in good old style. The poem ties the old barrack and bridge gate to the town's supernatural lore.

36. Battle at Ballyshannon between O'Donnell and Carbury men

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    The men of Carbury in Sligo, enraged by O'Donnell's interference at Bundroos, marched to Ballyshannon where the rival armies fought. The Carbury men were defeated and routed, with many officers killed and soldiers escaping only by hurried flight.

    Read the passage

    Tireonnell was Drobkaoit, the ancient name of the river Drowas — « name often mentioned in Irish history as a scene of many a desperate conflict. It was here the " Kingdom of Connaught '' began, and on somo spot near the river bank (not now recognizable) stood the Casth of Btuidroos, which was built by the O'Conors about the same time as O'Donn ell's castle was erected at Ballyshannon. O'Donnell, hearing of the building of the former, and thinking it might be dangerous to his territory, at once marched his forces to the spot for the purpose of putting a stop to his rival's project. He was, however, unable to turn them from their design, and had to return to Ballyshanuon without success. The Carbarians (people of Carbury, in Sligo) being enraged by O'Donnell's interference at Bundroos, collected their forces, and marched to Ballyshannon, where the rival armies confronted each other. A battle was fought, which resulted in the defeat and rout of the men of Carbury, many of their officers being killed, and the soldiers only escaping by a hurried flight. Five days after this engagement, the irrepressible Connaught men made another raid on Ballyshannon ; this tune by stealth. A body of cavalry came through the Moy, and having crossed the river unobserved (not by the ford of Athseanaigh, but at the waterfall) late on a summer evening, and finding O'Donnell's sons,Donal and Xi;d, with their horsemen, enjoying themselves " after their wine " on Port-na-long (the bank of the ships), they rushed on the unsuspecting Tirconnellians; Donal was slain, and Nial only escaped by leaping from the bank and swimming out to a merchant vessel then at anchor in the harbour. This act of revenge (for legitimate warfare it could not be called) took place at what is known as the Fall Park, or Pool bank; and it should here be remarked that in former times Ballyshannon did not rejoice in the possession of that fashionable place of resort— the Mall. Onr forefathers were satisfied with the homely bnt appropriate name of Fisk Lane, and where it ended (at the passage up to the back Mall) the Fall Park began.* At its entrance was a sty le, and as there was no

    /J™ "S S^ 1 " 1 !?*- 0 ' ^opr^n* century, tho imm<s Fiih Lane, n cluuiired to Parle Lam. It Is Cilia desijnatorf In Pigut's Hibereiwi Diiectoiy, published fa IS84.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 14

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Ballyshannon now, in Donegal, and this town was a place of desperate conflict. The river here was called Drobkaoit in ancient times, and the Kingdom of Connaught began somewhere near its banks. O'Conor built a castle at Bundroos, around the same time O'Donnell raised his own castle at Ballyshannon. O'Donnell heard about the building and thought it a danger to his territory, so he marched his forces to Bundroos to put a stop to it. He could not turn them from their design and had to come back to Ballyshannon empty-handed. The men of Carbury in Sligo were enraged by O'Donnell's interference at Bundroos. They gathered their forces and marched on Ballyshannon, where the rival armies faced each other. A battle was fought. The Carbury men were defeated and routed. Many of their officers were killed, and the soldiers escaped only by hurried flight. Five days later, the Connaught men came back, this time by stealth. A body of cavalry came through the Moy and crossed the river unobserved at the waterfall, not by the ford of Athseanaigh. It was late on a summer evening. They found O'Donnell's sons, Donal and Nial, with their horsemen, enjoying themselves, in the source's words, after their wine, on Port-na-long, the bank of the ships. The cavalry rushed on the unsuspecting men of Tirconnell. Donal was slain. Nial only escaped by leaping from the bank and swimming out to a merchant vessel at anchor in the harbour. That act of revenge took place at what is known as the Fall Park, or Pool Bank.

37. O'Donnell remains moved to Donegal Abbey

    Donegal · town · Donegal

    A dispute arose between two orders of monks over where the Baron's ancestors should be interred. O'Donnell and the Bishops of Raphoe and Derry decided in favour of the Donegal Franciscans, so the remains were exhumed and finally deposited in the abbey at Donegal.

    Read the passage

    in iheir abbey, because it was in a monastery of their order (Franciscans) that the ancestors of the Baron were interred. The dispute between the two orders of monks was referred to O'Donneil and the Bishops of Raphoa and Derry, who decided in favour of the claims of the Donegal monks. The remains •were therefore exhumed, and being taken to Donegal were finally deposited in the abbey there. O'Donneil, not long after the siege that wo have described,

    r received intelligence from the Earl of Tyrone, that the Lord

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Donegal, you are near the abbey where the Baron's ancestors came to rest. A dispute arose between two orders of monks over where they should be interred, because it was in a monastery of the Franciscans that the ancestors of the Baron had been buried. The dispute was referred to O'Donnell and the Bishops of Raphoe and Derry, who decided in favour of the Donegal monks. The remains were exhumed, taken to Donegal, and finally deposited in the abbey there.

38. Rossinver abbey church of St. Moedoc

    Rossinver · parish · Leitrim · 500–600

    Within a mile of Garrison on Lough Macnean stand the ivy-covered remains of the sixth-century abbey church of Rossinver, patroned by St. Moedoc. A local tradition says the church was built by angels in one night but left unfinished after a curious woman peeped out despite warnings.

    Read the passage

    Within a mile of the village of Garrison, and close to the shores of Loiitrh Alclvin, are the remains of the abbey church of Bosinbkir (now Rossinver, i.e. the peninsula of the river's month). Its foundation dates from the sixth century, and its patron was St. Moedoc, or St, Hogue, whose memory is still kept in the district. A good deal of the walls still remain, which are gradually being undermined by the thick growth of ivy. The architectural features still rciuiiining, show that the pile was rebuiltduring the middle ages. A local tradition exists that the church was built by angels in one night.

    " In smiling vale of silver streams (the ruins still respeeted), St. Moeg's holy abbey gleams, by angel hands erected."

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 43

39. Salt manufacture at Portnason and Milltown

    Portnason · townland · Donegal

    Salt was formerly manufactured at Portnason and Milltown using seawater brought from the Erne in large boats. The boats were towed to Portnason by a horse walking along the sands, and the local industry continued until the importation of English salt ended it.

    Read the passage

    In former times, the m annr act flW of salt was carried on hem, both at Portnason ant! Milltown. The nit water used in the process, was brought from the Hnriu large boats constructed for the purpose, and it was no uncommon thing to see one of these lumbering crafts towed canal-fash i<m toPortnasom by a horse, who walked or waded on the edge of the sands. The imp- >rtul ion of English salt, long ago put an end to this local industry.

    The weaver's loom and the housewife's spinning wheel, once so common in our n ei gh bo urh ood, have become scarce, and in a fi<w years more, the spinning wheel, once regarded as a necessary pi of furniture in the country house, will be regarded as an antiquarian relic. In the early part of the present century a linen market was in existence here, and the weavers bronchi I webs to the market which was presided over by an inspector and stamper, both of whom were appointed by the "Hoard of Trustees of the linen and hempen manufacturers." These officials were for the purpose of preventing frauds, such as "fine laps," "short lengths," "thick selvages," and "uneven cloth," and the market stamp was impressed on perfect pieces only, as the stampers !t:id to allow compensation whenever their seal was found on the defective pieces. In 1828 this Board was dissolved, and the. trade appears to have dwindled away afterwards. More than twenty years ago a scheme was set on foot for the establishment of a spinning mill on a large scale at Laputu, and a considerable sum was expended in the erection of a suitable building, which however was never completed, and the building has since b tenanted by a body of rooks, who alone disturb the silence of this gloomy-looking structure. It is much to be regretted that some one of capital and enterprise has not taken this building, and ntdised the vast water power, second to none in the country, which has so long been allowed to ran waste. The building would be leased for ever, we understand, for little or nothing to anyone undertaking to establish a factory iu it; and considering the small outlay which would be requisite to complete the edifice and water course, and its close proximity to both railway and

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, salt was once manufactured, both at Portnason and at Milltown. The salt water used in the process was brought from the Erne in large boats built for the purpose. It was no uncommon sight to see one of these lumbering craft towed, canal-fashion, to Portnason by a horse that walked or waded on the edge of the sands. The importation of English salt put an end to this local industry long ago. The weaver's loom and the housewife's spinning wheel, once so common in the neighbourhood, have become scarce. In a few years more, the spinning wheel, once regarded as a necessary piece of furniture in the country house, will be regarded as an antiquarian relic. In the early part of the present century a linen market existed here, and the weavers brought their webs to the market, which was presided over by an inspector and a stamper, both appointed by the Board of Trustees of the linen and hempen manufacturers. These officials were there to prevent frauds such as "fine laps," "short lengths," "thick selvages," and "uneven cloth." The market stamp was impressed on perfect pieces only, as the stampers had to allow compensation whenever their seal was found on defective pieces. In 1828 this Board was dissolved, and the trade appears to have dwindled away afterwards. More than twenty years ago a scheme was set on foot for the establishment of a spinning mill on a large scale at Laputu. A considerable sum was spent on the erection of a suitable building, but it was never completed, and the building has since been tenanted by rooks, who alone disturb the silence of this gloomy-looking structure.

40. Ballyshannon Union Hunt and its Chinese punch jug

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    The Ballyshannon Union Hunt flourished in the last century, with Francis Gillespie as master of the hounds, living at Dauby. An elegant punch jug depicting hunting scenes, specially made in China, survives as a memento of the hunt's existence.

    Read the passage

    In the last century flourished the "Ballyshaimou Union Hunt," and an interesting memento of its existence is still preserved in a large punch jug of elegant shape, upon which are portrayed scenes from the hunting field, and the initials F. G. (Francis Gillespie, who was master of the hounds, and lived at Dauby). This jug was specially made in China, and was brought over from that rounir-y at a time when the Chinese ports were closed to European commerce. While speaking of hunts, mention should be made of the exploit of a gentleman formerly well-known here — Kit Allingham. One day in the winter time, while hunting a fox tn the Knather district, reynard bent his course towards the river, a little below Laputa; the hounds and riders followed for

    • Sue Chapter gn Parochial Ekturj .

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ballyshannon, you are passing the ground of the old Ballyshannon Union Hunt. It flourished in the last century, and a large punch jug still survives as a memento of it. The jug is an elegant thing, made specially in China, with hunting scenes painted on it and the initials F.G. — Francis Gillespie, who was master of the hounds and lived at Dauby. It was brought over from China at a time when the Chinese ports were closed to European commerce. The book also tells of Kit Allingham, a gentleman well-known here. One winter day, hunting a fox in the Knather district, the fox bent his course towards the river, a little below Laputa, and the hounds and riders followed.

41. Council of war on Mullaghnashee before retreat

    Mullaghnashee · townland · Roscommon · 1597

    After failing to take Ballyshannon castle, the English army withdrew to their camping ground on Mullaghnashee hill. A council of war lasting through the night concluded with a decision to make a precipitate retreat on Thursday morning.

    Read the passage

    and military stores, crossed the Bar and came up to the island of Inis-saraer, where they landed their stipplies lor the use of the invaders. On the following day — Monday — the camion were brought off to the mainland, and placed in position before O'Donnell's castle ; the troops then marched from the Abbey, anil toiik tip their quarters on the summit oiSiiA Aodha (Mullagknashee). Having then marched down to the neighbourhood of the castle, they commenced their cannonade, which they kept up withont intermission till Wednesday. The good old fortress was proof however, against all their battering, and after a three day's siege it hold out as impregnable as over. The attack is thus graphically described by the "Four Masters'' — "They continued firing at the castle with thick flashes of tire and rod shot, from loud-roaring guns, and immensely large and heavy ordnance, which (hey planted before the fortress, so that their resounding and echoing reports were heard in the vaults of tho air, far and distant from them ; having their bodies clad with thick, strong iron armour, fine polished helmets on their heads, and completely guarded with bright round broad-bucklers aud shields of hard iron to protect them against tho shots of their enemies. O'Donnell's soldiers on their part, gallantly defeuded the castle, pouring down thick showers of shot upon the enemy, while from the battlements of the castle, they threw down heavy stones, beams, and other missiles upon any of their foes who came under tho castle walls." At length the besiegers, notwithstanding their great numerical strength aud extensive stores, perceiving that all then- efforts to take the castle were in vain, turned their backs upon its walls and retired to their campinggroond, on Mullaghnashce, receiving us they went, a parting salute of shot from the castle garrison. During the engagement, the besiegers lost great numbers, and many more wore badly wounded. Upon Mullaghnasheo a council of war was held by the commander and officers, their deliberations lasting all through the night, till break of day on Thursday, when they came to the deciaiun of making a precipitate retreat. Their

    ~~

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

42. Destruction of Kilbarron parish records at Raphoe

    Raphoe · town · Donegal · 1689

    The oldest historical documents of the parish of Kilbarron were deposited in the episcopal library at Raphoe. Jacobite soldiers destroyed these records while passing through the town on their way to the siege of Derry.

    Read the passage

    The preservation of the parochial records in the Established Church of Ireland, was not in former times a matter of much consideration, and as a consequence, the earliest and probably most interesting chronicles of the parish of Kilbarron, in common with others, are irretrievably lost. The oldest documents which would throw light on our parish wore deposited in the episcopal library at Kaphoe, but these were destroyed by the Jacobite soldiers, when passing through that town to the siege of Derry. It has been asserted that the old church of Kilbarron which gave its name to the parish, was one of the first in Ireland in which the English service was used after the reformation ; we cannot however discover any record or evideuco to support this statement, and having submitted the matter to a high authority* on all points of ecclesiastical antiquities, his opinion will doubtless be allowed to settle the question. lie thus refers to the subject — "I am not aware, nor do I think it likely, that Kilbarron old chorea bad any priority over the principal churches throughout Ireland in the use of our reformed prayer hook. Indeed I would a priori say that so wild and primitive a district as Tirconneil would be long hehind the churches of the "pale" in the employment of our English service book." The old church of Kilbarron may possibly have been used for protestant worship during the

    • Or, Rcovc!.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 23

43. Earl of Belmore compensated for Ballyshannon disfranchisement

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1800

    The Earl of Belmore received £15,000 as compensation for the disfranchisement of the Ballyshannon borough at the time of the Union. He held the 'commanding interest' over the borough, though how he acquired such influence over Ballyshannon does not appear.

    Read the passage

    the sum of £15,000 as a compensation for disfranchisement. The following as tract from "Memoirs and Correspondence of Viscount Castlereagli " will tlirow some light on the position of a. borough, such as Ballyshannon was: "With respect to what tire 1 "close boroughs" it is conceived this compensation (for of parliamentary franchise) may he given to the individuals possessed of the commanding interests, without regard to any clam from actual electors," The Earl of Belmore, having in this case, the " commanding interest," received this large sum, but it does not appear how he came to exercise such an influence over Ballyshannon.

    At the time of the "Union" there were in Ballyshannon 108 houses paying that oppressive tax— the Hearth and Window Jhity* The total amount received per annum was £307. In addition to the charter granted to Ballyshannon in 1GI3, there was a subsequent one granted to Lord Folliott, dated !ltli April, 1G22. Under this charter a Seneschal's court was established in this town, which was presided over by Lord Folliott as Lord of the manor, who now became owner of the town as well as tho surrounding lands on both sides of the river. Thomas, second Baron Folliott of Ballyshannon, was born in 1G13, and his son and heir, Henry, third baron died in 171o", when the title became extinct. The Fofliotts oi Holybrook house, of whom Col. John Folliott is the present representative, are descended from a common ancestor with Lord Folliott of Ballyshannon.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Ballyshannon, the town the road is passing through. At the time of the Union, the Earl of Belmore held what was called the commanding interest over the borough of Ballyshannon, and for the disfranchisement of that borough he received £15,000 in compensation. A passage from the Memoirs and Correspondence of Viscount Castlereagh sheds light on how this worked. It says the compensation for the loss of parliamentary franchise may be given to the individuals possessed of the commanding interests, without regard to any claim from actual electors. So the Earl of Belmore, having that commanding interest, received the sum. But how he came to exercise such influence over Ballyshannon does not appear. At the time of the Union there were in Ballyshannon 108 houses paying the Hearth and Window tax. The total amount received per annum was £307. A charter had been granted to Ballyshannon, and a subsequent one was granted to Lord Folliott, dated the 9th of April. Under this charter a Seneschal's court was established in the town, presided over by Lord Folliott as Lord of the manor. He became owner of the town as well as the surrounding lands on both sides of the river. Thomas, second Baron Folliott of Ballyshannon, had a son and heir, Henry, third baron, who died when the title became extinct. The Folliotts of Holybrook house, of whom Col. John Folliott is the present representative, are descended from a common ancestor with Lord Folliott of Ballyshannon.

44. Ford of Casan-na-g-curaidh and drowning of old king

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    A seldom-used ford called Casan-na-g-curaidh (the path of the champions) was located above the waterfall near Ballyshannon, where an old king was drowned. It was considered dangerous and difficult to cross.

    Read the passage

    part of which is incorporated with a grain store, and part with a butter shed on the north side of the market yard. The castle buildings doubtless occupied the whole or greater part of the ground now used for market purposes, and probably extended some way furl her up the river bank, and from its "well battle- ■d" towers were poured many a volley of bullets and other missiles on the luckless enemies without. The eaetle park (;i still preserved in some old leases of adjacent premises) extended almost, if not entirely to the summit of the hill northward oi the castle ; and long after the building was demolished, a quantity of human bones was discovered in a garden close to astJe walls; and within the past few years a further discovery oi bones was made upon the south hank of the river, whili road was being opened for the laying down of gas pipes. These remains doubtless belong to the period of the O'Donuells, when many a warrior fell in the battles of the ford. Besides tbc ford of Athseauaigh, there were other fords on the river which were occasionally used. One of these was about half a mile we Uelleek, the ford of Aih-cul-nni/i. There was another iVdown, under Laputa ; this ford was commanded by a small fortress, the walls of which are still standing on the south bank of the river, at Cherrytnount. This "keep" was built on the summit of an artificially constructed mound, so that the soldiers in charge might have better command of the river below.* Yet another ford, but only seldom used, owing to the difficulties and dangers attached to it, was Citsan-na-g-curaidk (the path of the champi i mined lately above the waterfall, where the old king was drowned. The regular military force of Tireonnell, under the command of O'Donncll, consisted of 1,500 foot, and 800 horse; of these, 200 foot soldiers and 40 horsemen were usually kept in the castle of Ballyshannon, but their number was further augmented in times of need by additional detachments. The western limit of

    • This fortress seems to have fallen Into disuse before the time of Out-en Elia as In oil old map of that period, preserved la the Public Hecord Oflfce, Luntton, Ttua buJMJjw l» marked m " mi olde cartel! " mid is represented is a ruin, while itallysh

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 14

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ballyshannon, there is a ford above the waterfall that carries an old story. It was called Casan-na-g-curaidh, the path of the champions. It was seldom used, because of the difficulties and dangers attached to crossing it. Here the old king was drowned. The place fits into a larger history of fighting. Ballyshannon had its castle, with well-battled towers from which many a volley of bullets and other missiles were poured on luckless enemies without. Human bones were found in a garden close to the castle walls, long after the building was demolished. More bones turned up on the south bank of the river when a road was being opened for the laying down of gas pipes. These remains belong to the period of the O'Donnells, when many a warrior fell in the battles of the ford. Besides this ford, there were others on the river. The ford of Athseauaigh was one. Another lay about half a mile west of Belleek, the ford of Ath-cul-nuig. Yet another ford lay down under Laputa, commanded by a small fortress whose walls still stand on the south bank of the river at Cherrymount. That keep was built on the summit of an artificially constructed mound, so soldiers might have better command of the river below. It fell into disuse before the time of Queen Elizabeth, marked on an old map as an old castle and a ruin. The regular military force of Tyrconnell under O'Donnell consisted of 1,500 foot and 800 horse. Of these, 200 foot soldiers and 40 horsemen were usually kept in the castle of Ballyshannon, their numbers augmented in times of need by additional detachments.

45. Kilbarron Castle: cliff-top fortress of the O'Clerys

    Kilbarron · townland · Donegal

    Kilbarron Castle stands on a circular cliff above the Atlantic, its sea-facing wall built on the precipice edge. It was the stronghold of the O'Clerys of Tirconnell and features a blocked-up subterranean passage once used for distilling purposes. Some walls appear older, likely dating to the castle's original foundation.

    Read the passage

    The most interesting rain of its class in our district is that of KHharron Caslle, whose shattered and weather worn walls still remain as silent memorials of the old Olla ves of Tirconnell:— " Broad, blue, and deep the Bay of Donegal Spreads north and south, and far a-west before The beetling cliffs, sublime and shattered wall Where the O'Clerys' name 13 heard no more."* The cliff on which the castle stood, is circular in shape, and tho wall facing the sea was butlt upon the extreme edge of the precipice; below, at a distance of nearly a hundred feet, roil the Atlantic breakers. Besides its romantic and beautiful situation, the spot was eminently fitted for tho erection of a fortified dwelling, as from the sea below, DO enemy could efTed a landing, and the land side was easily secured from incursions by the outer castle wall, which was of great, thickness, and extended from edge to edge of tho narrow isthmus which connects tbe cliff on which "the castle stood, with the mainland. Iu tha centre of the building, was a small open space or court-yard. Within the "£«/»" or northern wing, are traces of a gu&ten&MOR passage, which is now stopped up with stones. Nothing is known of its extent or design, but it was open and used for di»tilter>f purposes within the past century. The portion of the building which comprises the two chambers next the cliff-edge, seems to be older than the other walls, and is probably co-cval with the first foundation of the castle. The walls of this portion are of

    •T. Dwej- Mtfjee,

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here stand the shattered, weather-worn walls of Kilbarron Castle, silent memorials of the O'Clerys of Tirconnell. The poet T. D'Arcy McGee wrote of this place: "Broad, blue, and deep the Bay of Donegal spreads north and south, and far west before the beetling cliffs, sublime and shattered wall where the O'Clerys' name is heard no more." The castle stood on a cliff shaped in a circle, and the wall facing the sea was built on the extreme edge of the precipice. Below, nearly a hundred feet down, the Atlantic breakers roll. The spot was eminently fitted for a fortified dwelling. From the sea, no enemy could effect a landing, and the land side was secured by an outer castle wall of great thickness, extending from edge to edge of the narrow isthmus that connects the cliff with the mainland. In the centre of the building was a small open court-yard. Within the northern wing are traces of a subterranean passage, now stopped up with stones. Nothing is known of its extent or design, but it was open and used for distilling purposes within the past century. The portion of the building comprising the two chambers next the cliff-edge seems older than the other walls, and is probably coeval with the first foundation of the castle.

46. Loyal Ballyshannon Volunteers formed in 1779

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1779

    On 1 August 1779, residents of Ballyshannon formed an independent volunteer company called the 'Loyal Ballyshannon Volunteers' in response to the threat of French and Spanish invasion. They drilled daily and marched to Mullaghnashee Church on Sundays.

    Read the passage

    This occurrence, coupled with various political agitations, created a great feeling of insecurity in Ireland, and was the •cause of the enrolment of volunteer corps throughout the country. On the 1st August, 1779, the following resolutions wore passed in Mullaghnashee Church: "We, the underneath inhabitants of the town and neighbourhood of Ballyshannon, having at this critical time, when our country is threatened with an invasion of the natural enemies of the present constitution (the French and Spaniards), formed ourselves into an independent company, by the style and title of the " Loyal Ballyshannon Volunteers," in which we are further encouraged by the countenance and protection of the Right Honourable Thomas Conolly, who has done us the honour of accepting the command, have come to the f. .(lowing resolutions :_ Regaumtab— each man to furnish himself with a scarlet cloak faced with green, white waistcoat and breeches, A good firelock and bayonet; cartridge box and belt. Resolved, that whenever the company are called upon, they shall pay strict obedience to their officers. Resolved, that the company shall attend every day at parade, until such time as they are expert and perfect. Any one absent from parade without leave, to pay a fine of sixpence. Resolved, that the drum and fife be paid by the treasurer the sum of three shillings and three pence each per week, and that thoy do regularly perform their duty of beating the drum, and playing the fife, at the proper hours each day. Resolved, the commanding ■r present each parade day, be desired and empowered if any volunteer appear on parade, not being cleanly and properly dressed (his hair well powdered, himself completety accoutred with his arms in proper order), instantly to fine such volunteer any sum he shall think proper under one shilling, or in default of payment, to be instantly turned ont of the ranks for that day with disgrace." The corps used to march to church on Sundays, and afterwards to go on parade in an adjoining field. Henry Major who was agent on the Couolly estate, and at that time provost of Ballyshannon, was appointed captain of the volunteers.

    74

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 26

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Ballyshannon now. Back in 1779, this was a town that felt the chill of invasion. France and Spain threatened Ireland, and across the country men were forming volunteer corps to defend their own. On the first of August that year, in Mullaghnashee Church, the inhabitants of Ballyshannon and its neighbourhood passed a set of resolutions. They called themselves the Loyal Ballyshannon Volunteers, an independent company. The Right Honourable Thomas Conolly accepted the command and gave them his protection. Each man had to furnish himself with a scarlet cloak faced with green, a white waistcoat and breeches, a good firelock and bayonet, and a cartridge box and belt. They were to attend parade every day until they were expert and perfect. Miss a parade without leave and you paid a fine of sixpence. The drum and fife were paid three shillings and three pence each per week to perform their duty at the proper hours each day. If a volunteer turned up on parade not cleanly dressed, his hair not well powdered, his arms not in proper order, the commanding officer could fine him any sum under one shilling, or turn him out of the ranks for that day with disgrace. On Sundays the corps marched to church and afterwards went on parade in an adjoining field. Henry Major, agent on the Conolly estate and at that time provost of Ballyshannon, was appointed captain of the volunteers.

47. Medieval two-arch bridge at Assaroe

    Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal

    A little rustic bridge of two arches crosses the abbey river at Assaroe and is believed to have been built by the monks, making it one of the oldest surviving bridges in the country. It was later crossed by an invading army to invest the abbey buildings.

    Read the passage

    In the ecclesiastical edifices of this period, the gothic style of architecture was adopted in Ireland, and our abbey, aa well as other monasteries of the Cistercian order, was doubtless adoraei i with the richly decorated door-ways, arches and windows, which were characteristic of this style. The little rustic bridge of two arches which crosses the abbey river was doubtless built by the monks, and may therefore be regarded aa one of the ol bridges still existing in the conn try. It appears that no bri of any importance were built in Ireland before the twelfth century, and many of them were wooden. The little bridge at the abbey seems to have been partially rebuilt, as an examination of one of its arches will show, and at a later period it was across Its narrow limits that an invading army passed to invest the abbey buildings.

    The following are a few of the events connected with the history of the monastery, as recorded in the "Annals" a.d. 1 241:

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    Right beside the road here at Assaroe in Donegal, a little rustic bridge of two arches crosses the abbey river. It was doubtless built by the monks, and may be regarded as one of the oldest bridges still existing in the country. No bridges of any importance were built in Ireland before the twelfth century, and many of them were wooden. The bridge at the abbey seems to have been partially rebuilt, as an examination of one of its arches will show. At a later period it was across its narrow limits that an invading army passed to invest the abbey buildings. The ecclesiastical edifices of this period adopted the gothic style of architecture in Ireland, and the abbey, like other monasteries of the Cistercian order, was doubtless adorned with the richly decorated doorways, arches, and windows characteristic of that style.

48. Old church bell stolen and thrown into the pool

    Mullaghnashee · townland · Roscommon · 1698–1800

    The old church bell, originally put up in 1698, was stolen from the belfry by some young men and thrown into the pool. It was later recovered and used in the school house to summon scholars, but eventually disappeared again without trace.

    Read the passage

    At the beginning of the present century, the old church bell which was put up in 1098, was stolen from the belfry by some young men and thrown into the pool, out of which it was subsequently fished up, and was, after the purchase of the new bell, put up in the school house, where it remained for many years and was used to summon the reluctant scholars to their task: eventually this ill-fated bell once more disappeared and no trace of its whereabouts has since been found. The present bell was a sweet and sufficiently powerful one till it was broken by a careless ringer.*

    Owing to the imperfect state of the church records, it is impossible to give a complete and accurate list of the beneficed clergy of this parish. The following we have compiled from the existing vestry books, and the dates attached show the period at which they held office — 1691, Rev. John Forbes— 1718, Rev. James Forbes— 1734, Rev. George Knox — 1745, Rev. James OTTeil— 1809, Rev. Henry Major— 1820, Eev. Robert Ball — 1823, Rev. Robert rakenham— 1827, Rev. George Griffithf— 1830, Rev. George X. Tredennick (the last vicar previous to the disestablishment). The gift of the living was vested in the Cnimlly family from the time of their obtaining the property, till the disestablishment.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 24

49. 1775 Tour: picturesque cascade and salmon leap at Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1775

    A 1775 travel book describes Ballyshannon's beautiful situation near the sea, its bridge of fourteen arches, and the river falling down rocks to form a picturesque cascade at low water, noted as the principal salmon leap in Ireland. The author stayed four days.

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    In a book entitled "A Toar in Ireland in 1775, with a map, and a view of the Salmon Leap at Bnllyslmnnon," the following description of the town is given:— "The next day I arrived at Ballyskaunon, and was so pleased with its beautiful situation that I remained (here four days. It is a small town, situated near the sea, with a bridge of fourteen arches over a river, which a little lower falls down a ridge of rocks, about twelve feet, and at low water forms one of the most picturesque cascades I ever saw- It is rendered still more singular and interesting by being the principal Balmon Leap in Ireland." The writer ..f this "Tour" seems to have paid special attention to the salmon fishery, during his stay in Ihdlysliniinon. After describing at length the various habits of salmon, he goes on to say that "every morning during the fishery, they are taken out by means of a staff, with a strong

    barbed iron hook, which is stuck into them They

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 29

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Ballyshannon, a town in Donegal that a traveller in 1775 wrote about in a book called A Tour in Ireland. He arrived and was so pleased with its beautiful situation that he stayed four days. He called it a small town situated near the sea, with a bridge of fourteen arches over a river. A little lower down, the river falls over a ridge of rocks about 12 feet, and at low water forms what he called one of the most picturesque cascades he ever saw. He said it is rendered still more singular and interesting by being the principal salmon leap in Ireland. During his stay he paid special attention to the salmon fishery. He wrote that every morning during the fishery, the salmon are taken out by means of a staff with a strong barbed iron hook, which is stuck into them.

50. Ard Fothadh: Domhnall's royal residence and death

    Glasbolie · townland · Donegal · 625–639

    Ard Fothadh in the townland of Glasbolie was the residence of Domhnall, son of Aedh, son of Ainmire, king of all Ireland, in the seventh century. He died there in AD 639 after a year of mortal sickness, receiving communion every Sunday, as recorded in the Annals of the Four Masters.

    Read the passage

    In the townland of Glasbolie (only an hour's drive from Ballyshannon), is a spot of extreme interest and antiquity— the fort Ard Fothndh. Here it was that Domhnall, son of Aedh.t son of Aiiiuiiiv, king of all Ireland, had his residence in the seventh century. His death is thus noted in the Foter Masters: — a.]>. 639— "After Domhnall, son of Aedli, son of Aiuraire, had been 1G years in the sovereignty of Ireland, he died at Ard Pothadh, in Tir Aedha (Tir Hugh), after the victory of penance,, for he was a year in his mortal sickness; and he used to receive the body of Christ every Sunday." In the Tripartite Life of

    •The term Rath, Lis, ana Dud, are applied to these earthen torts. Rath it is sup- F«*d relet.- to the cnclownff raui|iarl, lit u, tho place enclosed, and Dun to the central moond within the Rath. All three tortus occur as profljte. in names ot places iu our district. , ,

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Glasbolie is the fort of Ard Fothadh. Domhnall, son of Aedh, son of Ainmire, king of all Ireland, had his residence here in the seventh century. His death is noted in the Annals of the Four Masters. The entry for AD 639 reads: "After Domhnall, son of Aedh, son of Ainmire, had been 16 years in the sovereignty of Ireland, he died at Ard Fothadh, in Tir Aedha, or Tir Hugh, after the victory of penance, for he was a year in his mortal sickness; and he used to receive the body of Christ every Sunday." The fort itself belongs to a class of earthen forts whose names carry the terms Rath, Lis, and Dun. Rath is thought to refer to the enclosing rampart, Lis to the place enclosed, and Dun to the central mound within the Rath.

51. Assaroe First Attacked by English Invading Army

    Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal

    When the English directed their energies to the conquest of Tirconnell, the monastery of Assaroe was the first place in the neighbourhood which the invading army surrounded and attacked. Its fortunes fell with those of its patrons, the O'Donnells.

    Read the passage

    Prom the foregoing extracts from the "Four Masters " it will bo seou that the monastery did not, during its existence, enjoy uninterrupted prosperity, but like everything else in Ireland at that period, suffered from the ravages of an unsettled and warlike age. In the earlier period of its existence it was stormed and plundered by O'Neill's soldiers, and in later times, when the English had directed their energies to the conquest of Tirconnell, the monastery of Assaroe was the first place in our neighbourhood which the invading army surrounded and attacked. When and how these later attacks were made, shall bo related in their proper place. Its fortunes were so closely interwoven with those of its patrons and supporters, the G'Donnells, that when they fell, the monastery met with the same fate — ruin and confiscation.

    Of all the massive building which was the pride of Tirconnell — the treasure-honse of letters, in an unlettered age, and tie quiet retreat of men of peace, from the turbulence and bloodshed of the outside world — nothing now remains but a few shapeless

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 12

52. Bailemegrabhartach monastery in Ballymagroarty

    near Ballymagrorty · population centre · Derry

    In Ballymagroarty-Irish stood the monastery or church of Bailemegrabhartach, founded by St. Columba, where the Cathach reliquary was kept by the MacGroaty family. Half a century ago enough remained to indicate its shape, but now only foundation traces, loose stones, and quoins built into a field wall survive.

    Read the passage

    In Ballymagroarty-Irish, is the site of the monastery or church of Bnilemegrabhartazch,* which was founded by St. Ooltunba, and in which the celebrated reliqne of that saint called the Qaihach^ was deposited by the keepers of the " Battle Book " — the Mac- Eoarlij family. Half a century ago, there were sufficient remains of the building to indicate its shape and position (the building was east and west); now there is literally nothing but traces of the foundations. A heap of stones lying in a hay Geld, and a number of massive blocks and quoins, now incorporated with the wall enclosing the field, are all that remain of the venerable pile. It is worthy of note that the stones used ifi Its <•< instruction were not of the kind found in the locality, but must have been brought from a distance, and that these are of audi a size as to show that the building was of an exceedingly massive character; the mortar used (a good deal of which is still attached to the stones) is a coarse shelly kind, as hard as the stones it held together.

    Within a mile of the village of Garrison, and close to the shores of Loiitrh Alclvin, are the remains of the abbey church of Bosinbkir (now Rossinver, i.e. the peninsula of the river's month). Its foundation dates from the sixth century, and its patron was St. Moedoc, or St, Hogue, whose memory is still kept in the district. A good deal of the walls still remain, which are gradually being undermined by the thick growth of ivy. The architectural features still rciuiiining, show that the pile was rebuiltduring the middle ages. A local tradition exists that the church was built by angels in one night.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 43

53. Ballyshannon created a borough by Royal Charter of James I, 1613

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1613

    In 1613 King James I granted Ballyshannon a Royal Charter making it a corporate borough in County Donegal, with a provost, twelve free burgesses, and commonalty. The charter conferred parliamentary representation, market and fair rights, and the power to hold a weekly court.

    Read the passage

    Ballyshanri'iu was one of the (.owns thus favoured; it was created a borough by Royal Charter, dated 28rd March, 1G13. The charter which is a very lengthy document, too much so for repetition here, begins thus: — "James, by the grace of God, of England, Scotland, France, ami Ireland, king, defender of the faith, to all to whom these our present letters shall come, greeting.

    BAIXTSHANSOX AS A COKPOEATE TnH'V 53

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 19

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Ballyshannon, in Donegal. In 1613 King James I granted the town a Royal Charter, making it a corporate borough. The charter gave Ballyshannon a provost, twelve free burgesses, and a commonalty. It brought parliamentary representation, market and fair rights, and the power to hold a weekly court. The charter opens: "James, by the grace of God, of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, king, defender of the faith."

54. Ballyshannon persons attainted by Jacobite parliament

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1689

    By the Act of Attainder passed by James II's parliament in 1689, numerous persons connected with Ballyshannon were deprived of their lands for favouring King William. These included Sir James Caldwell of Belleek, Patrick Conolly, Thomas Folliott, the Atkinsons, and Lord Folliott of Ballyshannon, among others.

    Read the passage

    accordingly held in the King's Dins, Henrietta Street, and there passed the Act entitled, '-An Act for the Attainder of Divers i for Preserving the interests of Loyal Subjects." By tins Act the following persons connected with Bully shannon were, amongst many others, deprived of their lands and possessions for favouring the cause of King William— Sir James Caldwell of Belleek, bart.. Patrick Conolly of Belashannon, gent.,* Thomas Folliott of Belaslmimou, gent., Francis Earles, Belashannon, gent.) Francis Jennings of Belashaimon, gent., John Folliott, Esquire, Belashannon, Charles Caldwell of Belleek (son and heir of Sir James Caldwell), John Montgomery of Carriekboy, gent., Thomas Atkinson, senr., Belashannon, gent., Thomas Atkinson^ junr, Belashannon, gent., Michael llueson of Coolebegge, gent., John llueson of Coolebegge, gent., Robert Delapp of Belftshannon, gent., Lord Folliott of Belashannon." In the same month in which this Act of Attainder was passed, Ballyshannon ivus besieged li.v u Jucjbite army. The Connaughf contingent, under the command of General Sarsfield, pitched their camp at Bundrowse, waiting their opportunity to seize Ballyshannon. The town was, however, strongly garrisoned, and the troops were under the command of Henry (afterwards third Baron Folliott). The Jacobite army, on the other hand, though numerically strong, were, ill-disciplined and hut poorly equipped. f The Castle of Balli/sftttmitm was still used as a military head-quarters, and contained a large number of soldiers. Folliott, however, finding himself beset by such a formidable army, sent to Euniskilleu for re-in forcemeats, and on Cth May, Col. Lloyd, in command of the afterwards relebrated regiment, the 27th I nniskilliners, started for Ballyshannon, The Jacobites, having hoard of their approach, marched to Belleek for the purpose of preventing them from reaching Ballyshannon, and having placed themselves in the most advantag ras position they could select, awaited the advent of the enemy.

    • Father of Speaker Conolly. t 41 1 be ifegeoiCrnmj tbetr only ordnance were two fin cannon, covered with buckram f

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ballyshannon in Donegal, you are in a town that was stripped of its people by a parliamentary act in 1689. James the Second's parliament passed an Act for the Attainder of Divers Persons for Preserving the Interests of Loyal Subjects. By this act, people connected with Ballyshannon were deprived of their lands and possessions for favouring the cause of King William. They included Sir James Caldwell of Belleek, a baronet, and his son and heir Charles Caldwell of Belleek. Patrick Conolly of Ballyshannon, gentleman, father of Speaker Conolly. Thomas Folliott of Ballyshannon. John Folliott of Ballyshannon, esquire. Francis Earles of Ballyshannon. Francis Jennings of Ballyshannon. John Montgomery of Carrickboy. Thomas Atkinson senior of Ballyshannon and Thomas Atkinson junior of Ballyshannon. Michael Hueson of Coolebeg and John Hueson of Coolebeg. Robert Delapp of Ballyshannon. And Lord Folliott of Ballyshannon. In the same month the act was passed, Ballyshannon was besieged by a Jacobite army. The Connaught contingent under General Sarsfield pitched their camp at Bundrowse, waiting for their chance to seize the town. Ballyshannon was strongly garrisoned, and the troops were under the command of Henry, afterwards third Baron Folliott. The Jacobite army was numerically strong but ill-disciplined and poorly equipped. Their only ordnance, as one account put it, were

55. Baptismal font rescued from duck trough, 1700

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1700–1879

    In 1700, a baptismal font of polished stone was purchased for the west end of the first church. It was later found in a yard in the town being used as a trough for feeding ducks, and was rescued by the present incumbent and placed in the church porch.

    Read the passage

    In the year 1700, the sum of one pound fifteen shillings, was paid for a baptismal font of "beweu stone" which was set in the west end of the first church. It now lies in the church porch, having been rescued by the present incumbent from a yard in the town, where the top portion was used a sa trough for feeding ducks! In 1718, a school house "for the instruction of poor children" was built by Archdeacon Michael Hewetson. This primitive structure stood upon the site of the present sexton's house, and was liko the church, roofed with shingles. In 1735, the church had fallen into such a rubious condition that it was deemed unsafe to use it any longer for public worship, and it was resolved by the parishioners that a new church should be built "with all convenient speed" on the lerd ground lying between the west wall of the church and the so<lfort,\ The new church which was crnciform, was of the foltowing dimensions — length of nave and choir, 85 feet, width 28 feet — length of transept, 58 feet, width, 23 feet. During the erection of this church, public worship was conducted in the old school house.

    Kanjr words were at this time spelt w pronounced: the word f.uMjrisstill commonly ■ -1 > r . iittti-r. Many m. r> ■ dimples could be given of this phonetic, method of spelling words iu old MSS. and of theil survival in local pronunciation t .An old term Tor Cliititcel, from the suite root, cuaeelli, rail J Ihij «u the Sttt Audha ttuttidh, thores&l mound having been then in ciWcuce.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 24

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Ballyshannon now. Back in 1700, the sum of one pound and fifteen shillings was paid for a baptismal font of polished stone, set in the west end of the first church here. That font had a strange later life. It was found in a yard in the town, the top portion being used as a trough for feeding ducks. The present incumbent rescued it and placed it in the church porch, where it now lies. The first church itself did not last long. By 1735 it had fallen into such a ruinous condition that it was deemed unsafe to use any longer for public worship. The parishioners resolved that a new church should be built with all convenient speed on the higher ground lying between the west wall of the old church and the old fort. The new church was cruciform. The nave and choir measured 85 feet in length and 28 feet in width. The transept was 58 feet long and 23 feet wide. Before that, in 1718, a school house for the instruction of poor children had been built by Archdeacon Michael Hewetson. That primitive structure stood on the site of the present sexton's house, and like the old church was roofed with shingles. During the erection of the new church, public worship was conducted in that old school house.

56. Cloghnamme — ogham pillar stone in College Lane meadow

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    A large standing stone in the 'big meadow' in College Lane, named Cloghnamme (Cloch-na-nogham), meaning 'the stone of the ogams' or ogham inscriptions, likely belongs to the class of pillar stones erected to mark important events. It may have been used as a landmark for the ford of Athseattaigh.

    Read the passage

    into thia country; even two and a half centuries ago they wire far from general in Ireland; for we find a writer of that period saying concerning the fords: "It is to be observed that not everywhere, where the highways meet with great brooks, or small rivers, bridges are found for to pass them, but in very many places one is constrained to ride through the water itself."* The ford of Athseanaigh lay a little above the present bridge, it was one of the class of artificially constructed fords, as its remains still testify, though it is only when the river is low of a dry summer that the stones now remaining, can be seen. It has been suggested to the writer by a gentleman of great antiquarian knowledge, that the large "standing stone" in the "big meadow," in College Lane, may have been used in former times in conjunction with another large stone now prostrate, near "Tom Pye's bridge," as a landmark of this ford; and it is worthy of notice, that a line drawn across the river from one stone to the other would exactly indicate the course of the ford. Although however, the "standing stone" in the big meadow might have been nsed as a landmark, it is not to be supposed that it was erected for that purpose. From its name, Ctoughnamme (CJochna-nogham), i.e. the stone of the ogums, or ogham-inscription, thia stone doubtless belongs to the class of "standing," or pillar stones, which were erected in ancient times to mark the spot on which some important event occurred. Upon these stones are frequently fonnd ogham characters (a species of rock inscriptions used in times of remoto antiquity), in the example of which we are speaking, no traces of rock writing are now observable ; perhaps they have been obliterated by time, or by the vandalism of some past generation ; or it may be that tie inscription was cut on the end placed m the ground. That such was sometimes done the following extract shows. In an account of the battle of Ollarba, fonght in a.d. 285, it is stated, "there is a pillar stone at the cairn of Fothadh, and an ognm is on the end of the pillarstone which is in the earth."f W hile speaking of these cnrions

    ■ Boate's Natural History of Ireland. t Treatise on the Kound Towers ot Ireland, by Dr. Petrle.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ballyshannon, there is a standing stone in the big meadow in College Lane, called Cloghnamme, from Cloch-na-nogham, meaning the stone of the ogams, or ogham inscriptions. A gentleman of great antiquarian knowledge suggested it may have been used as a landmark for the ford of Athseanaigh, which lay a little above the present bridge. That ford was artificially constructed, and when the river runs low in a dry summer, the stones remaining from it can still be seen. A line drawn across the river from the standing stone to another large stone, now prostrate near Tom Pye's bridge, would exactly mark the course of the ford. But the stone was not likely erected for that purpose. From its name it belongs to the class of pillar stones raised in ancient times to mark the spot where some important event occurred. Ogham characters, a species of rock inscription used in remote antiquity, are frequently found on such stones. On this one, no traces of writing are now observable. They may have been obliterated by time, or by the vandalism of some past generation, or the inscription may have been cut on the end placed in the ground. That this was sometimes done is shown by an account of the battle of Ollarba, fought in 285, which states, "there is a pillar stone at the cairn of Fothadh, and an ogham is on the end of the pillar stone which is in the earth." Two and a half centuries ago, bridges were far from general in Ireland. A writer of that period observed concerning the fords, "It is to be observed that not everywhere, where the highways meet with great brooks, or small rivers, bridges are found for to pass them, but in very many places one is constrained to ride through the water itself."

57. Cromlech at Corker near Coolfarron old Church

    Corker · townland · Galway

    A fine and unusually large cromlech at Corker, not far from Coolfarron old Church, retains its covering stone intact. It is identified as a sepulchral monument of great antiquity, locally called a 'Giant's Grave.'

    Read the passage

    A line und perfect example of the cromlech jrae, We regret to Bay, deprived of its roof a few years ago bJ 0 - bum. The owner of the field in which it wns standing, became possessed of the idea that treasure was concealed within it, and rested not till he bad removed the gigantic routing-flag, and began bis search within. He was, it is said, interrupted in the work by the crowing of a cock on Li; housetop, which was believed to be a warning not to be slighted; the march was therefore relinquished, and the stones replaced in the centre of the enclosure; the roofing-flag however, being too heavy to restore to its original position, remains prostrate. Another fine example will be found in Corker, not far from EuJbarron old Church, Here ii an nnnsually large cromlech which retains its roof entire. About half-a-mile north of the O'Cler/s Castle, is another giant's grave of colossal proportions. The visitor to these memorials of a by-gone age may well be struck with wonder at the labour which must have been expended on these cyclopoau works, some of the stones of which are several tous weight. In the townfand of Ballymagrarly Irish is also a scries of these grave stones 1enough to contain many human remains. Two cromleobj stood on the high ground near RouaniriehiS and Rockficld; th.it nearest Bolleek, was of very large proportions, hut of these relics,

    -

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 40

58. Francis Jennings and the Ballyshannon Iron Trade

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1558–1625

    Francis Jennings settled in Ballyshannon during the latter part of Elizabeth I's reign. His son became extensively engaged in the iron export trade, a major business in Ballyshannon during the reign of James I.

    Read the passage

    of Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough, came from Somersetshire and settled in Baltyshannon in the latter part, of the reign of Elizabeth. His family became connected by marriage with the Forbes, Major, Scanlan, and Babington families. His son, who bore the same christian name, was extensively engaged in the iron export trade, which in the reign of James I. was an important branch of business in Ballyshannon. In a former chapter reference was made to the Iron Works ol Lough Erne, which were at the period of which we are speaking in full operation. The supply of iron in England did not, at that time equal the demand, and consequently all the ore which could be supplied by this country, Found a ready and profitable sale in the English market. Most of the iron produced by Donegal, Tyrone, and Fermanagh, found its way to Ballyshannon, where it was bought at about £11 per ton; from tlieuce it was shipped to London, where it realized £1 7 per ton . Francis Jennings, jun r. (son of this iron merchant), left Ballyshannon and settled in Stockholm, where he became an aflluentman,andanatnralizedSwedislniobIeiuan. His son Johnreceivedm that country the title of "Knight of the Polar Star," and in company with his wife, visited Ballyshannon, his father's birthplace.

    Up to this very day the name continues in Sweden, the present representative of the family being John Gus. Ad. Mac- Jennings, who is connected with one of the most extensive iron mines of Sweden, mid is great-grandson of the Francis Jennings who left this town for Stockholm.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 33

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up along Ballyshannon now. A family called Jennings came from Somersetshire and settled here in the latter part of the reign of Elizabeth 1. They married into the Forbes, Major, Scanlan, and Babington families. The founder's son, also called Francis, was extensively engaged in the iron export trade, which during the reign of James 1 was an important branch of business in Ballyshannon. The Iron Works of Lough Erne were in full operation at that time. The supply of iron in England did not meet the demand, and all the ore this country could supply found a ready and profitable sale in the English market. Most of the iron produced by Donegal, Tyrone, and Fermanagh found its way to Ballyshannon, where it was bought at about £11 per ton. From there it was shipped to London, where it realized £17 per ton. Francis Jennings the younger, son of this iron merchant, left Ballyshannon and settled in Stockholm. He became an affluent man and a naturalized Swedish nobleman. His son John received in that country the title of Knight of the Polar Star, and visited Ballyshannon with his wife, his father's birthplace. The name continues in Sweden to this day. The present representative of the family is John Gus Ad Mac-Jennings, connected with one of the most extensive iron mines of Sweden, and great-grandson of the Francis Jennings who left this town for Stockholm.

59. Helen and Maguire's evening walk to Belleek

    Belleek · townland · Galway

    Helen O'Donnell and her betrothed Reginald Maguire walked from the castle along the river banks to a verdant slope near Belleek at sunset, where she sang a song of liberty accompanied by her harp.

    Read the passage

    Spanish court was famous. Helen's father encourged his snit, but the course of true love was unfortunately destined to be rudely and cruelly cut short. The celebrated Shane O'Neill, Karl of Tyrone, came on a visit to O'Donnell, for the purpose of arranging an attack an the English border. All the chieftains of Donegal belonging to the sept of O'Donnell, as well as Maguire of Fermanagh, assembled at Ballyshannon. The entertainments given on this occasion wero in keeping with that profuse hospitality which was characteristic of the times. The outdoor amusements wero divided between hunting the red deer, then common in the country, and shooting excursions on Lough Erne, and the nights were passed within the castle walls, amid songs and merriment; but all these diversions wero lost upon O'Neill, he had seen Helen O'Donuell, and had fallen madly in love with her. He Bpoke to her father, who informed him that Helen was betrothed to the chieftain of Fermanagh. O'Neill appeared satisfied, but in his inmost heart was kindled a deadly jealousy of his rival. One evening after the banquet, Maguire left the hall, and went to seek his intended bride in the castle garden. Helen came forward to meet her lover, attired in a little Spanish hat and feather, and a crimson scarf. "Reginald," she said with maidenly playfulness, "why did yon delay so long 1 ! come let us walk near the lake — 'twill be long ere the evening closes. — let us enjoy the scene." '• Let me bear your harp, Helen," said Reginald, as he bowed acquiescence. They walked a considerable distance from the castle along the river banks, and between music and conversation the hours stole away. At length they came to a verdant slope near to Belleek. The view was enchanting — 'twas sweet summer time, nature was decked in her gayest apparel, the sun had just set behind the distant hills, and his last rays still resting on the valley beneath them, threw a splendid radiance on the scene around. "Reginald,'' said Helen, "shall I sing yon a wild scrap I composed lately?" He gladly assented, and as she softly touched the strings of her harp, she sang: —

    T!IE O'DOSNELLS IS BAIATSIIASrXQN. 39

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

60. Iron Works at Garrison Destroyed by Fire

    Garrison · townland · Cavan

    Iron works at Garrison employed over 100 men, mostly English, before being burned down by neighboring clans in the autumn. A portion of one of the iron hammers is still preserved.

    Read the passage

    ■ Bootes 1 [Tattoo*] Btot 13 "i (rdaud. ♦There word also Iron works at Garrison, in which more than 100 men (mostly Entfli^li), were employed. Then were burnod down In the Autumn of tots by some of the neighbouring cUns, A portion of one of the Iron hammers is stiJl preserved.

    ■80 BAI.LTSHAXXOX IN THE EIGHTEENTH CEXTUKT.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 30