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. John Wesley preaches in Ballyshannon 1771

   Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1771

   Methodism founder John Wesley visited Ballyshannon on more than one occasion and preached there in 1771. He noted in his journal that the chief persons of the town were ashamed to own him, sending only their compliments.

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   Of the two Methodist chapels, that in the Main Street is much the oldest, having been, according to the tablet inserted in the wall, built in 1701. The Rer. John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, visited Ballyshannon on more than one occasion; and in 1771 preached hero. At that time, he seemed to have but few supporters in the town, as the following entry in his journal shows:— "I rode to Ballyshannon, and preached, in the Assemblyroom. I was acquainted with some of the chief persons in the town; but they were ashamed to own me. Only some of them sent their compliments to me, properly so called." In subsequent years, the cause of Methodism grew and flourished in Hal ly shannon, and at one time there was a large number of members, which *

   however, have dwindled away with the decreased population. The Methodist Chapel on the Mall is a more modern structure, and being roomy and commodiously situated, will soon supersede the Main Street Chapel.

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 27

2. Kilbarron Castle razed in 1300

   Kilbarron · townland · Donegal · 1300

   The Annals record that the castle of Kilbarron was razed to the ground by Donell, son of Mortogh O'Connor, in 1300. It was probably re-edified by Cormac O'Clery, with the stone houses whose remains still stand built later by the three sons of Teige Cam O'Clery.

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   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

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here stood Kilbarron Castle. The Annals record that the castle was razed to the ground by Donell, son of Mortogh O'Connor, in 1300. This same family of O'Connor later built Bundrowes Castle. Historical records do not tell us precisely when Kilbarron was first built, but it was probably originally built by some of the O'Sgiuning family in the thirteenth or fourteenth century. After the destruction of 1300, the castle was probably re-edified by Cormac O'Clery. Cormac had become acquainted with the old ollave of Kilbarron while staying at a monastery, and married the ollave's daughter. The ollave's only demand was that if a son was born to them, he should be trained in literature and history, to become a worthy successor to the now almost extinct race of the O'Sgiunings. In due time a son was born, and the parents kept their word. Thus the O'Clerys became the historians of Tirconnell. In the quiet of their rock-bound dwelling at Kilbarron, they laid the foundations of a literary fame that would outlast the wreck of their castle and their worldly fortunes. The stone houses whose remains now stand were built at a later period by the three sons of Teige Cam O'Clery. Popular tradition has it that the castle belonged to lawless freebooters who chose its isolated position for plundering, and still points out the murdering kote through which hapless victims were hurled into the sea. That supposition is without foundation.

3. Lough Erne Navigation Company canal remnants at Belleek

   Belleek · townland · Galway · 1789–1798

   In 1789 a company was formed to build a canal between Ballyshannon harbour and Lough Erne, with government funding. The 1798 rebellion ended the project, leaving only a solitary lock and rough cuttings at Belleek as evidence of the enterprise.

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   For more than a hundred years past, various schemes have been proposed for deepening and otherwise improving the Bar., In (lie spring of 1785, a survey and report of the Bar was made by Richard Evans, an engineer of eminence in his day. His proposal was to direct the course of the river to the south side of the rocks, by which plan he expected to have from eight to ten feet at low water, on the Bar. The entire cost of his specification, including the necessary breakwater, was £2,080. He also proposed the construction of a canal between the harbour and Lough Erne, and this part of his proposal was attempted, for in 1789, a company was formed under the style of the " Lough Erne and Ballyghannon Navigation Company," aud a sum of money was granted by government for the purpose, but the rebellion of 1798 put as end to the project, and a solitary lock and some rongh cuttings at Belleek are all that remain of the enterprise.

   In 1832, Robert Stevenson and Son, the eminent engineers were employed to make a survey of our Bar and Harbour, with a view to tha improvement of the port, and the construction of a tramway to Belleek. Their plan was simply the deepening of the Bar aud "Patch," to the extent of three feet, and the removal of a portion of the Black Rock. The estimated cost of this work was £5,5 Gl 2s. The cost of extension of the quay was estimated at £397 2s. The tramway by which they proposed to connect the harbour with Lough Erne, was to commence with a deep cutting upon leaving the harbour. It was then, by means of a small bridge or tunnel of GO feet in length, to pass under the Main Street, immediately above the Barracks, and follow the north side of the river, crossing it at the Mullans by a bridge of four arches, and terminating at the quay of Belleek. The estimated coat of this work was £18,133 4s. 9d. Following up Messrs , Stephenson's proposals, an effort wa8 made by those

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

4. Lugalustran and Garrickrtaronfa preserve memory of corn industry

   Lugalustran · townland · Leitrim

   The place-names Lugalustran ('the hollow of the burnt corn') and Garrickrtaronfa preserve the memory of ancient corn preparation and milling industries. At Lugalustran, near the Rock, corn was burned in the ear to prepare it for grinding with querns, a practice later prohibited by parliament.

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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

5. Round Tower on Tory Island

   Tory Island · townland · Donegal

   A fine round tower, known as Clog-theach (Bell house), still stands on Tory Island, contemporaneous with St. Columba's monastery. Its doorway features a semicircular arch formed of a single row of small stones, regarded as one of the earliest instances of the use of the arch in Ireland.

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   A fine round tower, known as Clog-teadi (i.e. Bell house) is still standing on the island. It was contemporaneous with the monastery founded there by St. Columb Cille. Its doorway presents a fine example of the semicircular arch fofinod of a nnj of small stones, and is regarded as one of the earliest instances of the use of the arch in Ireland,*

   Besides the round tower, are pointed out by the inhabitants the foundations of seven little churches or cells, and a curious ronml stone is preserved, which, when struck, emits a sharp metallic sound. This is said to have been used before the introduction of bells, to summon the islanders to worship. The name of St, Columb Cille is also preserved in our neighbourhood by a well and a lake. The well is near the ono-mile-stone on the road to Donegal, and "stations" were formerly held there , the lake which boars the saint's name, lies about two miles north of Belleek, and is a good example of the numerous class of mountain tarns which are dotted here and there over our district.

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 9

6. Foundation and endowment of Assaroe Abbey

   Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal · 1173

   Assaroe Abbey, a Cistercian monastery, was founded in the late 12th century by Flaherty O'Muldurry, Lord of Tirconnell. By the time of Queen Elizabeth, the abbot possessed extensive lands, Abbey Island with a cemetery and church, and fishing rights on the River Erne.

   Read the passage

   The abbey of Ashroe. Easroe, Easruaidh, or Assaroe, v. according to some chronicles, founded by Roderick O'Caim prince of Tireonnell, in a.d. 1173. Following, however, "The Annals of Boyle," which account has been adopted by "The Four Masters," its foundation ia attributed to Flaherty O'Mulluny, Lord of Kicol Connell, in a.d. 1184. It was this prince who died on Inis-Samcr thirteen years later. The monastery of Assaroe was dedicated to God and St. Bernard,* and wa?, aa ■vlII as the older abbey, "De Samario," for monks of the Cistercian order. O'Muklorry, the benefactor of Assaroe, who was in his day a great warrior, and had roigned over Tireonnell for thirty years, was not buried there, bnt in the older monastery of Drumlml: i. of which mention has been already made.

   The abbey of Assaroe was richly endowed by the successive princes of Tireonnell. By an "inquisition" taken in the 31st year of Queen Elizabeth, the abbot of Assaroe was found to lie in possession of the ground on which the abbey was built ; alsi village known as "Abbey Island," in which was a cemetery, a church and steeple, partly roofed with shingles (thin boards), and partly with thatch, the ruins of a dormitory, three other stone buildings, and four small cottages. There were also attach, m I to the monastery, fifty-three quarters of landt and the fourth "f half a quarter (it being near tho abbey demesne). These

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 10

   As the companion tells it

   Right beside the road here is where Assaroe Abbey stood, a Cistercian monastery dedicated to God and St. Bernard. Some chronicles say it was founded by Roderick O'Cairn, prince of Tirconnell, in 1173. But the Annals of Boyle, adopted by the Four Masters, give the founding to Flaherty O'Muldurry, Lord of Tirconnell, in 1184. He was a great warrior who had reigned over Tirconnell for thirty years. He died on Inis-Samer thirteen years after the founding, but he was not buried here. He was laid to rest in the older monastery of Drumhome. The abbey was richly endowed by the successive princes of Tirconnell. By an inquisition taken in the 31st year of Queen Elizabeth, the abbot was found to possess the ground on which the abbey was built, and a village known as Abbey Island. On that island were a cemetery, a church and steeple partly roofed with shingles and partly with thatch, the ruins of a dormitory, three stone buildings, and four small cottages. There were also attached to the monastery fifty-three quarters of land and the fourth of half a quarter, it being near the abbey demesne.

7. O'Donnell castle hospitality and Maguire's visit

   Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

   The O'Donnells exercised lavish hospitality at the castle of Ballyshannon. Giollaise Maguire, a neighbouring chief of Fermanagh, visited O'Donnell with cavalry and was entertained with sweet meats, fine liquors, harp music, and lodged in a guest chamber.

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   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

   TBS O'DONWELLK IX BALLVsn.WXOX. 37

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Ballyshannon, the town was once the site of a castle where the O'Donnells exercised the lavish hospitality that suited the princes of Tyrconnell. The Four Masters give a glimpse of it through a visit from a neighbouring chief of Fermanagh. Giollaise Maguire had a grievance and decided to consult O'Donnell. He set out with a troop of cavalry, ordering his men to carry a supply of the choicest liquors for the journey. When they arrived at the castle of Ballyshannon and O'Donnell heard his friend was on the castle lawn with his horsemen, he went out to meet him. He kissed Giollaise affectionately and gave orders for the proper entertainment of his men. Then he brought the Fermanagh chief into the banqueting hall, where the sweetest meats and best flavoured liquors were served. They spent their time together till the usual hour of dinner and enjoyed their evening, their ears delighted with the sweet sound of harp and voice. When sleeping time came, O'Donnell escorted his friend to the guest chamber, followed by attendants carrying sweet and delicious provisions.

8. Ballyshannon parliamentary election of 1701

   Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1701

   In April 1701 the provost and burgesses of Ballyshannon elected Thomas Conolly of Castletown, County Kildare, and Michael Clarke of Dublin to represent the borough in the Irish parliament, illustrating the close-borough system where inhabitants had no voice in selecting members.

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   borough, by Richard Bateson, Esquire, high sheriff of the county <jf Donegal, bearing date tie 10th day of April, instant, requiring i lie said Henry Major to cause to be elected according to the form of the statute En that ca.se made and provided, two bun/esses to attend and serve in p ;l rlianwn1 in the city of Dublin, on the 1'jrh day of May next ensuing, do, with mutual assent and cement of I'aWs of us, makeehoiceand elect Thomas Conolly, of Castletown, ia the connty of KiWare, Esquire, and JEchael Clarke, of the city of Dublin, Esquire, to lie burgesses of our said borough, and to represent us hi the said parliament."— (here follows the signatures).

   The following is a complete list of the gentlemen who represented Ballysbannon, from the time it was created a borough till its disfranchisement in 1800: —

   Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 19

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Ballyshannon, you are in a town that once returned members to the Irish parliament. In April 1701, the high sheriff of County Donegal, Richard Bateson, issued a writ requiring the election of two burgesses to serve in parliament in Dublin. The provost and burgesses chose Thomas Conolly of Castletown, County Kildare, and Michael Clarke of Dublin. The ordinary inhabitants of the town had no say in the matter. Ballyshannon was a close borough, controlled by those who held the right to elect, and it continued returning members until it was disfranchised in 1800.

9. Fortress at Cherrymount commanding river ford

   Cherrymount · townland · Donegal

   A small fortress at Cherrymount, its walls still standing on the south bank of the river, was built on an artificially constructed mound to command a ford downstream from Ballyshannon. The fortress had fallen into disuse before Queen Elizabeth's time, as shown on an old map marking it as 'an olde castell' and a ruin.

   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

10. Guthrie's Gazetteer c. 1750: fourteen-arch bridge and salmon leap

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1750

    Guthrie's New General Gazetteer, published around 1750, describes Ballyshannon as a borough and market town in Donegal with a good harbour, a bridge of fourteen arches over the River Erne, and a twelve-foot cascade forming the principal salmon leap in Ireland.

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    Often as it has been said of our town that it is at a stand dill, "the same old place as ever," yet, were some Rip Yan Winkle, who had lived in Ballyshannon a century ago, to awaken from his slumbers, and once more revisit his old hannts, he would mUs many of the old landmarks ; would see many of the buildings which in his early days were the scene of bustle and animation now in ruins, and inquire in vain for the descendants of his former friends and acquaintances. The names as well as the faces of the new inhabitants would appear strange to him, and be at least would be slow to admit that it was " the same old place as ever," The following notice of Ballyshannon 13 from a manuscript written in 1789, from which wo have already quoted : — "The most southerly town iu the County (Donegal) is Ballyshannon, a borough and seaport, lying on the northern shore of the River Erne. The situation is beautiful, being washed by so great a river, from which the town, rising in a pretty steep ascent, appears to advantage ; over the river is a largo stone bridge, in the midst of which rises a tower with a gate, and a guard-room at the end of the bridge ; along the shore of the 1 i ver stands beautifully two very fine barracks, that on the west side of the street for two companies of foot, the other on the east for two troops of horse ; on the top of the hill over tho town stands a neat church; and a qnarter of a mile on the north side of the harbour an old abbey. Except about Ballyshannon there is no large flock of sheep (in Donegal) nor are there many herds of black cattle but what gni.se- there, and at Horn Head." From Guthrie's New General Ga:ettcer (published about 1750), we take the following : — "Ballyshannon, aborough, market andpost town, in the County Donegal, province of Ulster, 101 miles from Dublin, having a good harbour, east of Donegal Bay. It has a bridge of fourteen arches over a river, which runs ont of Lough Erne, which river falls down a ridge of rocks about twelve feet, and at low water forms a most beautiful and picturesque cascade;

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 28

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming into Ballyshannon, the most southerly town in Donegal, lying on the northern shore of the River Erne. A writer in 1789 called its situation beautiful, washed by so great a river, with the town rising in a pretty steep ascent so that it appears to advantage. Over the river stood a large stone bridge, and in the midst of it rose a tower with a gate and a guard-room at the end. Along the shore stood two very fine barracks: the one on the west side of the street for two companies of foot, the other on the east for two troops of horse. On the top of the hill over the town stood a neat church, and a quarter of a mile on the north side of the harbour, an old abbey. The writer noted that except about Ballyshannon there was no large flock of sheep in Donegal, nor many herds of black cattle but what grazed there and at Horn Head. Guthrie's New General Gazetteer, published about 1750, describes Ballyshannon as a borough, market and post town in County Donegal, province of Ulster, 101 miles from Dublin, with a good harbour east of Donegal Bay. It has a bridge of fourteen arches over a river that runs out of Lough Erne. That river falls down a ridge of rocks about twelve feet, and at low water forms what Guthrie calls a most beautiful and picturesque cascade. This is the principal salmon leap in Ireland. A later writer said that were some Rip Van Winkle who had lived in Ballyshannon a century ago to awaken and revisit his old haunts, he would miss many of the old landmarks, see many buildings once full of bustle now in ruins, and inquire in vain for the descendants of his former friends.

11. Romance of Helen O'Donnell at Ballyshannon castle

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    Helen O'Donnell, the most beautiful girl of her time, lived in the castle of Ballyshannon. She was betrothed to the chieftain of Fermanagh, but Shane O'Neill fell madly in love with her during a visit, kindling deadly jealousy.

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    Besides the historical associations which have rendered the castle of Ballyshannon famous, the halo of romance has also been thrown around its walls. Within them once lived Helen O'Donnell, the most beautiful and accomplished young girl of her time; a gracoful mien, a lovely face, and a benignity of disposition like hers, did not fail to attract the nobles of Ireland. There was one fortunate suitor — the young chieftain of Fermanagh, who was favoured with her regard. He had spent his early years in Spain, and added to a gentlemanly deportment a good education, and those habits of gallantry for which the

    1 Piiikertcii'a History ol Irish Commerce.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon, the old castle here carries a romance. Helen O'Donnell lived within these walls, called the most beautiful and accomplished young girl of her time. Her graceful mien and lovely face drew the nobles of Ireland. One fortunate suitor won her regard: the young chieftain of Fermanagh, who had spent his early years in Spain, carrying a gentlemanly deportment, a good education, and habits of gallantry. But Shane O'Neill fell madly in love with her during a visit, and that kindled a deadly jealousy.

12. Vestry at Mullaghnashee church petitions Colonel Tiffin

    Mullaghnashee · townland · Roscommon · 1691

    On Easter Monday, 13th April 1691, a vestry was held within the church of Mullaghnashee at Ballyshannon while the 27th regiment of Inniskilleners under Colonel Tiffin was stationed there. The vestry enacted that a petition be drawn asking the colonel for a contribution from his regiment and reparations to the church.

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    Iii (lie "Calendar of Treasury Papers," under date 1G92, we find the following reference to Henry Caldwell, merchant of Ballyshannon — "Sir Joseph Horn, Knight, petitioned Government, which was certified by several of the officers who held out at Ballyshannon, and other adjacent garrisons in the county, for the Kin;i against King James, ami that there were used by the garrison several goods which belonged to Henry Caldwell, Esq., and that he was never compensated for them." From a record preserved in the church books, in the year 1691, it appears that the 27th regiment of InnisMlliners, under the command of their first* colonel, Zecharah Tiffin, W6S stationed at Ballyshannon in the beginning of that year. The following is a copy of the minute: — "A vestry held within ye church of Mullaghnashee vpon Easter Monday, 13th April (1691), bath chosen John Jones audi Arch. Harvy, church-wardens. Mr. Robert Delap and Mr. Lewis first overseers of high ways. Enacted that a petition be drawn and presented to Colonel Tijjin for a contribution of his regiment and re pur at ion of ye church." After King "William had established his authority in Ireland on a firm basis, the parliament passed an Act "declaring all Attainders, and all other Acts made in a late pretended parliament" held under King James at Dublin, about 7th May, 1689, to be void. All the rolls, etc.* of that parliament were cancelled and publicly burned, ami the persons whom we enumerated at the heginiug of this chapter, as. having had their property confiscated, were reinstated in their titles and possessions.

    The prolonged wars which England and Holland waged with France, from 1GS0 to 1697, after the termination of the Jacobite struggle in this country, engrossed the attention of King William's government. In the Calendar of Treasury Papers, at the year 1691, wo find the following strange entry in which our town is mentioned : "the government bought 8,000 bushels of oats at Whitehaven, at a cost of £726 16s. 8d, to be sent to Ballyshannon, for the purpose of the army being brought into

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 22

13. Ballyshannon Castle during the Jacobite Siege

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1689

    During the Jacobite siege, the church at Mullaghnashee was used for military purposes and bombs were drawn from it to Ballyshannon Castle. This confirms the castle existed at that date as a military fortress.

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    At the time of the Jacobite siege, the church appears to have been used for military purposes, as was frequently the case in troublous times. From its commanding situation, the churchyard was well suited for heavy ordnance, and that they were placed there, the following extract from the vestry book in 1G92-3 shows — "To carrying Bombs out of yo church, one shilling. To John Horeoy drawing tlieso to ye castle two shillings." This ]ast item is of historical interest, as it shows the castle of Ballyshannou existed at that date as a military fortress. At the year 1694 there is a curious entry oifoar sMOinga unci sixpence, being the hire of three horse3 to convey the parish representatives to

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    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon in Donegal, the castle here stood as a military fortress during the Jacobite siege of 1689. The church at Mullaghnashee was used for military purposes, as was common in troubled times. Its churchyard, in a commanding position, was well suited for heavy ordnance. The vestry book records the cost of carrying bombs out of the church, one shilling, and John Horeoy drawing those bombs to the castle, two shillings. That entry shows the castle of Ballyshannon existed at that date as a military fortress.

14. Custom House and bonding yards on the Mall, Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1600–1831

    Ballyshannon possessed a large Custom House staff headquartered in a house built by Sir H. Caldwell in the 17th century. Bonding yards and stores on the Mall testify to the shipping enterprises of bygone days, when sugar and other commodities were bonded below the gas works at the Boat House hole.

    Read the passage

    Formerly Baliyshannon possessed a large Custom House staff, whose head quarters were in the house built by Sir IT. Caldwell, in the 17th century. In those days of timber and sngar duties the customs tariff was so extensive that the shipping trade of the town n-ave abundant employment to these officials. A I muse stood below the gas works, in the "Boat House hole," in which sugar and other commodities were bonded, and the approach to thfs was formerly called the "Dirty Causeway." The " bonding yards" and stores on the Mall all testify to the shipping enterprises of by-gone days. In 1831, 61 coasting, and 12 foreign vessels entered the port, in all 5,G00 tons.

    The following, amongst other articles, were then imported:— Now York, pot ashes; Barilla, oak bark; coals— Liverpool,

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Ballyshannon now. In the 17th century, Sir H. Caldwell built a house here that became the headquarters of a large Custom House staff. In those days of timber and sugar duties the customs tariff was so extensive that the shipping trade of the town gave abundant employment to these officials. A warehouse stood below the gas works, in the Boat House hole, in which sugar and other commodities were bonded, and the approach to it was formerly called the Dirty Causeway. The bonding yards and stores on the Mall all testify to the shipping enterprises of bygone days. In 1831, 61 coasting and 12 foreign vessels entered the port, in all 5,600 tons. Among the articles then imported were New York pot ashes, Barilla oak bark, and Liverpool coals.

15. Learned men endowed with lands at Kilbarron and Moy Erne

    Kilbarron · townland · Donegal

    O'Donnell bestowed lands including Kildonoy, Coolromur, and Drumnacrin in Moy Erne upon the learned men Tuthal, Gillareagh, and Dermot, attached to Kilbarron. The ruins of Kilbarron are described as weather-beaten and lichen-covered, once the home of men of learning and piety.

    Read the passage

    upon its weather-beaten and linchen-covered ruins, now the haunt of chough and rock-pigeon, remember that it was once the home of men uf learning and piety, who honestly and patiently laboured for their country's good, and who have left behind them in their literary works, a memorial more etidurmg than stone and lime.

    The Macwaras, the hereditary bards of the O'Donuells, dwelt in the neighbouring town land of Balhjmacward (the town of Macward), now called Wardtown. la those literary compositl m of these laureates of Tircounell which are still preserved, there is abundant evidence that they were not wanting m poetical spirit and skill in versification. Even Spenser, the English poet and no friend to the Irish, had to acknowledge that the verses of the Irish bards "savour of sweet wit and good invention." Further on we shall have an opportunity of quoting one of Macward's poems.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Kilbarron stands in weather-beaten, lichen-covered ruins. They are now the haunt of chough and rock-pigeon. It was once the home of men of learning and piety, who honestly and patiently laboured for their country's good, and who left behind them in their literary works a memorial more enduring than stone and lime. The Macwaras, the hereditary bards of the O'Donnells, dwelt in the neighbouring place of Ballimacward, the town of Macward, now called Wardtown. In their literary compositions, which are still preserved, there is abundant evidence that they were not wanting in poetical spirit and skill in versification. Even Spenser, the English poet and no friend to the Irish, had to acknowledge that the verses of the Irish bards "savour of sweet wit and good invention."

16. Riot at Ballyshannon Fair, 1839

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1839

    The large crowds at Ballyshannon's harvest fair often made it difficult to preserve the peace, and soldiers were sometimes called in to quell riotous mobs. At the 1839 fair, police were attacked by a mob who disarmed them of their bayonets and beat them.

    Read the passage

    which used to congregate at the harvest fair, often made it difficult to preserve the peace of the town, for it should be remembered that Bally shannon was nut, even half a century ago, the peaceable lair-abiding place it now is. ( )n more than one occasion a detachment of soldiers had to be called into requisition to quell the, riotous mob fit the fair; and in the 1939 fair, the police were attacked by a ''mob of idlers" who took their bayonets from them and beat them desperately.

    Education ami enlightenment have done much during the past fifty years, to smooth down what was rugged and uncouth, and as they become more widely diffused in our midst, a further improvement will lie sure to follow,

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Ballyshannon in Donegal. The harvest fair here used to draw large crowds, and keeping the peace was hard. Half a century before this account was written, Ballyshannon was not the quiet place it later became. More than once soldiers had to be called in to quell a riotous mob at the fair. At the 1839 fair the police were attacked by what the book calls a mob of idlers, who took their bayonets from them and beat them desperately. The writer credits education and enlightenment with smoothing down what was rugged and uncouth in the town over the following fifty years.

17. Rival Abbots of Assaroe Die Same Day, 1502

    Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal · 1502

    In 1502 Art O'Gallagher and John O'Loiste, two abbots who had contended for the abbacy of Assaroe, both died on the same day.

    Read the passage

    A.D, 1502— Art O'Gallagher and John O'Loiste, two abbots, who contended for the abbacy of Assaroe, died in one day.

    <\.li. 1319— Edmond Duv O'Dwyer, abbot of Assaroe, died.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 12

18. Belleek Porcelain Works — First in Ireland

    near Belleek · parish · Fermanagh

    The porcelain works of Messrs. D. McBirney and Co. at Belleek were the first and only establishment of their kind in Ireland. The works turned out ware acknowledged in England, France, and America, with raw material imported through a quay and depot at Ballyshannon.

    Read the passage

    grinding, flax scutching, brick making, limo burning, &c, &c. The only mill ; >t BaUyshflOlMH] which is worked by the vast water power of the Brae, is that of Mr. Neely, who supplies the town and surrsBndrag Bsighbonrhood with flour and meal, and has ■bo, on the same premises, improved machinery for sawing all kinds of timber. There are also some small mills at the abbey which are kept busily going; and though not belonging to the town, the porcelain works of Messrs. D, McBirney and Co. of Be I leek, deserve special mention, as the first and only establishment of the, kind in Ireland.

    works have been erected at an ennrmous outlay, and have turned out work second to none in the kingdom. The-

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

19. 1778 survey of Ballyshannon ship channel and Murray's Quay

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1778

    Archibald Murray, a Ballyshannon wine merchant, commissioned a survey and soundings of the ship channel from the Bar of Ballyshannon to Murray's Quay in September 1778. The survey proposed building a stone wall from the Black Rock to the South Rock to confine the current and deepen the harbour channel, estimating the cost at £2,000.

    Read the passage

    Notwithstanding the extent of the trade by sea to Ballyshannoa in the last century, the bar was in those days, as it still is, a subject of anxiety to the merchant. There is, we believe, still hi existence a map and survey, bearing the following title : "The survey and soundings of the Ship Channel from the Bar of Ballyshannon to Murray's Quay — taken at low water September 23rd, 1778j by order of Archibald Murray, merchant of Ballyshanuon." The following note is added as explanatory of this survey: "The present course of the river at the bar, spreads nvcr a crooked stony bottom, by which the current there loses its force, and runs on the stony shore to the north side. It i3 therefore humbly proposed, that a wall or battery of stones (which are very convenient) should be made on the dotted line, A. C, viz.— from the Black Rock to the South Rock, being only CO perches, by which the current would leave all the stones to the north side, run in a direct confined course through a channel where there ib nothing but sand for eight feet deep (proved), so that the water would then be as deep at the entrance of the

    -82 BA1LTSHAJJ5TON IN THE EIGHTEENTH CENTT/KT.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Ballyshannon now, in County Donegal. Back in 1778, the bar at the river here was a source of anxiety to merchants trading by sea, as it still was in later times. On September 23rd of that year, a survey and soundings were taken at low water, by order of Archibald Murray, a wine merchant of Ballyshannon. The survey covered the ship channel from the Bar of Ballyshannon to Murray's Quay. The survey noted that the river at the bar spread over a crooked, stony bottom, which caused the current to lose its force and run onto the stony shore to the north side. It proposed building a wall of stones from the Black Rock to the South Rock, a distance of only 60 perches, to confine the current. The stones were said to be very convenient nearby. With the current confined, it would leave the stones to the north and run in a direct course through a channel of nothing but sand, proved to be eight feet deep. The estimated cost of the work was £2,000. The survey and its map were believed to still exist in later years.

20. 1789 description: bridge tower, barracks, and old abbey

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1789

    A 1789 manuscript describes Ballyshannon as a borough and seaport on the River Erne, featuring a large stone bridge with a tower and gate in its centre, two fine barracks along the shore, a church on the hill, and an old abbey near the harbour.

    Read the passage

    Often as it has been said of our town that it is at a stand dill, "the same old place as ever," yet, were some Rip Yan Winkle, who had lived in Ballyshannon a century ago, to awaken from his slumbers, and once more revisit his old hannts, he would mUs many of the old landmarks ; would see many of the buildings which in his early days were the scene of bustle and animation now in ruins, and inquire in vain for the descendants of his former friends and acquaintances. The names as well as the faces of the new inhabitants would appear strange to him, and be at least would be slow to admit that it was " the same old place as ever," The following notice of Ballyshannon 13 from a manuscript written in 1789, from which wo have already quoted : — "The most southerly town iu the County (Donegal) is Ballyshannon, a borough and seaport, lying on the northern shore of the River Erne. The situation is beautiful, being washed by so great a river, from which the town, rising in a pretty steep ascent, appears to advantage ; over the river is a largo stone bridge, in the midst of which rises a tower with a gate, and a guard-room at the end of the bridge ; along the shore of the 1 i ver stands beautifully two very fine barracks, that on the west side of the street for two companies of foot, the other on the east for two troops of horse ; on the top of the hill over tho town stands a neat church; and a qnarter of a mile on the north side of the harbour an old abbey. Except about Ballyshannon there is no large flock of sheep (in Donegal) nor are there many herds of black cattle but what gni.se- there, and at Horn Head." From Guthrie's New General Ga:ettcer (published about 1750), we take the following : — "Ballyshannon, aborough, market andpost town, in the County Donegal, province of Ulster, 101 miles from Dublin, having a good harbour, east of Donegal Bay. It has a bridge of fourteen arches over a river, which runs ont of Lough Erne, which river falls down a ridge of rocks about twelve feet, and at low water forms a most beautiful and picturesque cascade;

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 28

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ballyshannon, you are passing through the most southerly town in County Donegal, a borough and seaport on the northern shore of the River Erne. A manuscript written in 1789 described the situation as beautiful, washed by so great a river, with the town rising in a steep ascent so that it appeared to advantage. Over the river stood a large stone bridge, and in the midst of it rose a tower with a gate and a guard-room at the end of the bridge. Along the shore of the river stood two very fine barracks. The one on the west side of the street was for two companies of foot, and the other on the east was for two troops of horse. On the top of the hill over the town stood a neat church, and a quarter of a mile on the north side of the harbour, an old abbey. An earlier account, from Guthrie's General Gazetteer published about 1750, called Ballyshannon a borough, market and post town, 101 miles from Dublin, with a good harbour east of Donegal Bay. It noted a bridge of fourteen arches over a river running out of Lough Erne. That river fell down a ridge of rocks about twelve feet, and at low water formed what the writer called a most beautiful and picturesque cascade. The 1789 manuscript also noted that except about Ballyshannon, there was no large flock of sheep in Donegal, nor many herds of black cattle, but what grazed there and at Horn Head.

21. Ballyshannon nursery grounds in the Knather

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1750–1800

    In the latter part of the eighteenth century, Ballyshannon possessed a large nursery—the only one in County Donegal—located in the Knather, then styled 'Nadir.' It supplied plants and shrubs to the neighbourhood and the counties of Fermanagh, Leitrim, and Sligo, but the enterprise did not survive long into the nineteenth century.

    Read the passage

    In the latter part of the last century, Ballyshannon possessed a large and well-assorted nursery — the only one in the Connty Donegal. The grounds were in the Kmther, or as it was then styled " Nadir/' and an extensive trade was done in supplying plants and shrubs to this neighbourhood, as well as the counties of Fermanagh, Lcitrim, and Sligo. "Unfortunately, the enterprise did not esiBt long into the present century, and the town is now deprived of the benefit of a local nursery.*

    In the year 1 800, "The Tyrhugh Farming Society'' wasfounded. The first meeting was held in the house of Mrs. Pye, in Ballyshannon, on the first Monday of November. A committee of gentlemen was appointed to promote the following laudable objects : — A linen market iuBallyshannon ; to encourage good enclosures, and qnickset hedges ; draining laud and growing wheat; the improvement and watering of meadow land; reclamation of bog lands j the cleanest and neatest farm houses, and best enclosed kitchen gardens ; best sallow gardens, &c. How long this society continued to exert its beneficial influence upon

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Ballyshannon, this was a place that once had something rare for Donegal. In the latter part of the eighteenth century, a large and well-assorted nursery stood here, the only one in the county. The grounds lay in the Knather, then styled "Nadir." An extensive trade was done supplying plants and shrubs to the neighbourhood and to the counties of Fermanagh, Leitrim, and Sligo. But the enterprise did not survive long into the nineteenth century, and the town lost its local nursery. In the year 1800, the Tyrhugh Farming Society was founded. The first meeting was held in the house of Mrs. Pye in town on the first Monday of November. A committee of gentlemen was appointed to promote a linen market, to encourage good enclosures and quickset hedges, draining land and growing wheat, the improvement and watering of meadow land, reclamation of bog lands, the cleanest and neatest farm houses, best enclosed kitchen gardens, and best sallow gardens.

22. Belleek Castle and Back Lane on the River Erne

    Belleek · townland · Galway · 1589–1625

    Remains of Belleek Castle stood on the north bank of the River Erne. The land was called Castellane in James I's time and is now known as Back Lane. An inquisition in the 31st year of Queen Elizabeth I noted it as property of the Abbot of Assaroe.

    Read the passage

    The castk of Belivk, some remains of which still exist, was •situated on the north bank of the river Erne. In the time of .James I. the land upon which this castle stood was called CasteUane; the locality is now called Back Lane. The name of the founder of Belleek Castle is unknown, but it seems to have teen in the possession of the abbot of Assaroe in Queen Elizabeth's time : — la an inquisition taken in the 31st year of her reign, " The castle of Bellyke " is mentioned as a part of the abbot's property.

    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

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 41

23. Castle of Ballyshannon as military headquarters during siege

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1689

    During the 1689 Jacobite siege, the Castle of Ballyshannon was still used as a military headquarters and contained a large number of soldiers. Folliott, finding himself beset by a formidable army, sent to Enniskillen for reinforcements, and Col. Lloyd with the 27th Inniskilliners marched to relieve the town.

    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 the road brings you through Ballyshannon, this is a town that in 1689 was besieged by a Jacobite army. That same month, the Irish parliament, meeting in the King's Dins in Henrietta Street, passed an Act of Attainder depriving people connected with this place of their lands for favouring King William's cause. Among those attainted were Sir James Caldwell of Belleek, Patrick Conolly, Thomas Folliott, Francis Earles, Francis Jennings, John Folliott, Charles Caldwell, John Montgomery of Carriekboy, Thomas Atkinson senior and junior, Michael Hueson of Coolebegge, John Hueson of Coolebegge, Robert Delapp, and Lord Folliott. The Connacht contingent, under General Sarsfield, pitched their camp at Bundrowse and waited for their chance to seize the town. It was strongly garrisoned, with troops under the command of Henry, afterwards third Baron Folliott. The Castle was still used as military headquarters and contained a large number of soldiers. The Jacobite army was numerically strong but ill-disciplined and poorly equipped. Their only ordnance was two cannon covered with buckram. Folliott, finding himself beset by such a formidable army, sent to Enniskillen for reinforcements. On the 6th of May, Col. Lloyd, in command of the afterwards celebrated 27th Inniskilliners, started for the town. The Jacobites, hearing of their approach, marched to Belleek to prevent them from getting through. They placed themselves in the most advantageous position they could select and awaited the enemy.

24. Erne salmon fisheries from O'Donnells to modern sale

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    The salmon and eel fisheries of the Erne were of great local importance from the time of the O'Donnells. After Speaker Conolly purchased the property from the Folliot family, the fisheries remained with the Conollys until sold in the Landed Estates Court to Messrs. Moore and Alexander.

    Read the passage

    The salmon and eel fisheries have been from the time of the ODonnells down to the present, of great local importance. From the time "Speaker" Conolly purchased the property from the Folliot family, the Erne fisheries remained in the possession of tlic OonoHys ■■<* landlords till their recent sale, Amongst those who worked them were Mr. Major (Provost of Batlyehannon): Mr. Daniel; The Bight Hon. Thomas Conolly; Messrs, Richardson and Little; Lady Louisa Conolly; Mr. Edmonds; Dr. P. Shcil; and lastly S. Sheil, Esq., M.D., who held them till the fisheries were sold in the Landed Estates Court to the present owners Messrs. Moore and Alexander.

    Before the days of railways and steamers, most of the salmonwere salted and enred before being exported to England am] the Mediterranean ; in later times when the ice-pacling system was introduced, they were shipped in smacks for England, some of which made the run from Ballysliannon to Liverpool in two cloys and the eels were transmitted thence in well boats, a kind of lighter containing large tanks or wells, for the preservation of the eels, and when railway communication reached Enniskillen^

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ballyshannon, you are passing by the Erne salmon and eel fisheries, which have been of great local importance from the time of the O'Donnells right down to the present. Speaker Conolly bought the property from the Folliot family, and after that the Erne fisheries stayed in the hands of the Conollys as landlords until their recent sale. Among those who worked the fisheries were Mr. Major, who was Provost of Ballyshannon, Mr. Daniel, the Right Hon. Thomas Conolly, Messrs. Richardson and Little, Lady Louisa Conolly, Mr. Edmonds, Dr. P. Sheil, and lastly S. Sheil, who held them until the fisheries were sold in the Landed Estates Court to the present owners, Messrs. Moore and Alexander. Before the days of railways and steamers, most of the salmon were salted and cured before being exported to England and the Mediterranean. In later times, when the ice-packing system came in, they were shipped in smacks for England, some of which made the run from Ballyshannon to Liverpool in two days. The eels were sent off in well boats, a kind of lighter containing large tanks or wells for keeping the eels alive, and when railway communication reached Enniskillen.

25. Folliott acquires abbey lands at Assaroe

    Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal · 1610

    Sir Henry Folliott acquired the abbey lands at Assaroe around 1610, not by crown grant but by purchase from the original patentees.

    Read the passage

    Ballyshannon was garrisoned by a strong body of English soldiers, under the command of Sift* Henry Fol/iotf, "Captain of foot at Ballishanan," who was destined from, henceforth to occupy a prominent position in this town and neighbourhood, and to become this principal landowner of the district. lie was styled "governor of Baliishanan," and received the order of Knighthood from Robert, earl of Essex, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, on 6th September, 1599; he was subsequently raised to the peerage of Ireland, under the title of Baron FoUiatt of Balliehanan, on --lid January, 1Q19. The first lands which lie seems to have been possessed of, were the abbey lands at Assaroe and lands at Belleek, both of which ho obtained, not by grant from the crown, but by purchase from the original patentees, about tlio year 1G 10.* In this year also an agreement was made between the English government and Sir Henry, that on condition of his keeping the castle of Ballyshannnti and that of Bundrowes in repair, and without charge to the ling; holding them always in a fit and defensible state; if trouble and rebellion should arise, ho should obtain a fee farm grant, as "undertaker" of the lands lying between the tiro castles. In addition to the lands thus acquired, the salmon and eel fisheries fell into his hands.

    The defences of the harbour and Lough Erne were also provided for, and for this purpose a special corps was organized, as the following extract from the calendar of state papers, 1G06-8 shows: — " 1G07, May 15th. The king to Sir Arthur Chichester: Captain William Cole to be continued by patent, in the place he has for many years held, of Captain of the king's long boats and targes at Ballisharmon, and Lovgh Erne, with an allowance of 3s. 4d. for himself by the day, and 8d. a piece for ten men, &c." Ou tho summit of a hill overlooking the Bar, are the remains of a circular fort, evidently intended for the purpose of defending tho entrance to the harbour; this fort probably belongs to the English period, and may have been constructed in the time of James tho First.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 18

    As the companion tells it

    The abbey lands here at Assaroe came into the hands of Sir Henry Folliott about 1610. He did not get them by grant from the crown. He bought them from the original patentees. He took the lands at Belleek the same way. Folliott was already a power in this district. Ballyshannon was garrisoned by a strong body of English soldiers under his command, and he was styled governor of Ballyshannon. He had received the order of knighthood from Robert, earl of Essex, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, on 6th September 1599. He was Captain of foot at Ballyshannon, and he was destined to become the principal landowner of the district. In the same year he acquired the abbey lands, 1610, an agreement was made between the English government and Sir Henry. On condition of his keeping the castle of Ballyshannon and the castle of Bundrowes in repair, and without charge to the king, holding them always in a fit and defensible state, he should, if trouble and rebellion should arise, obtain a fee farm grant as "undertaker" of the lands lying between the two castles. In addition to the lands thus acquired, the salmon and eel fisheries fell into his hands. The defences of the harbour and Lough Erne were also provided for, and a special corps was organized for that purpose. On the summit of a hill overlooking the Bar are the remains of a circular fort, evidently intended to defend the entrance to the harbour. This fort probably belongs to the English period and may have been constructed in the time of James the First.

26. Henry Caldwell's goods seized by Ballyshannon garrison

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1692

    Henry Caldwell, a merchant of Ballyshannon, had several of his goods used by the garrison holding out for King William against King James. A petition certified by officers at Ballyshannon noted that Caldwell was never compensated for the goods taken.

    Read the passage

    Iii (lie "Calendar of Treasury Papers," under date 1G92, we find the following reference to Henry Caldwell, merchant of Ballyshannon — "Sir Joseph Horn, Knight, petitioned Government, which was certified by several of the officers who held out at Ballyshannon, and other adjacent garrisons in the county, for the Kin;i against King James, ami that there were used by the garrison several goods which belonged to Henry Caldwell, Esq., and that he was never compensated for them." From a record preserved in the church books, in the year 1691, it appears that the 27th regiment of InnisMlliners, under the command of their first* colonel, Zecharah Tiffin, W6S stationed at Ballyshannon in the beginning of that year. The following is a copy of the minute: — "A vestry held within ye church of Mullaghnashee vpon Easter Monday, 13th April (1691), bath chosen John Jones audi Arch. Harvy, church-wardens. Mr. Robert Delap and Mr. Lewis first overseers of high ways. Enacted that a petition be drawn and presented to Colonel Tijjin for a contribution of his regiment and re pur at ion of ye church." After King "William had established his authority in Ireland on a firm basis, the parliament passed an Act "declaring all Attainders, and all other Acts made in a late pretended parliament" held under King James at Dublin, about 7th May, 1689, to be void. All the rolls, etc.* of that parliament were cancelled and publicly burned, ami the persons whom we enumerated at the heginiug of this chapter, as. having had their property confiscated, were reinstated in their titles and possessions.

    The prolonged wars which England and Holland waged with France, from 1GS0 to 1697, after the termination of the Jacobite struggle in this country, engrossed the attention of King William's government. In the Calendar of Treasury Papers, at the year 1691, wo find the following strange entry in which our town is mentioned : "the government bought 8,000 bushels of oats at Whitehaven, at a cost of £726 16s. 8d, to be sent to Ballyshannon, for the purpose of the army being brought into

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Ballyshannon, in Donegal. In 1692, the Calendar of Treasury Papers records a petition to Government from Sir Joseph Horn, a knight. It was certified by several officers who held out at Ballyshannon and other garrisons nearby, for King William against King James. The garrison used several goods belonging to Henry Caldwell, a merchant of the town, and he was never compensated for them. A year earlier, in 1691, the 27th regiment of Inniskilliners under their first colonel, Zecharah Tiffin, was stationed at Ballyshannon. A vestry held within the church of Mullaghnashee on Easter Monday, the 13th of April 1691, chose John Jones and Arch. Harvy as church-wardens, and Mr. Robert Delap and Mr. Lewis as overseers of highways. That vestry enacted that a petition be drawn and presented to Colonel Tiffin, asking for a contribution from his regiment and reparation of the church. After King William established his authority in Ireland, parliament passed an Act declaring all attainders and all other acts made in a late pretended parliament, held under King James at Dublin about the 7th of May 1689, to be void. All the rolls of that parliament were cancelled and publicly burned. The persons whose property had been confiscated were reinstated in their titles and possessions.

27. Mullaghnashee Church: military defence and volunteer birthplace

    Mullaghnashee · townland · Roscommon · 1779

    Mullaghnashee Church served as a place of military defence during the Jacobite disturbances. In 1779, within its walls, the 'Loyal Ballyshannon Volunteers' corps was formed in response to invasion fears from a combined French and Spanish fleet.

    Read the passage

    Wo lure already spoken of Mullaghnashee Church, as having been used as a place of military defence at the period of the Jacobite disturbances. In less than a century from that time was originated within its walls a heal corps, which was called "The Loyal Ballyshannon Volunteers." In the year 1779 the coabt defences of England were in such a weak and unsatisfactory state tiiat a combined fleet of French and Spanish ships entered the English Channel in overwhelming force, and the "Serapis" man -of- war, a frigate, and several smaller vessels belonging to England, were captured.

    paro cheat, msTOET. 73

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 26

28. O'Donnell's fish trade at Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    The O'Donnells at Ballyshannon carried on extensive trade with French and Spanish merchants, exchanging fish for wine and other products. Sir George Carew noted that O'Donnell was called 'the king of fish' in other countries.

    Read the passage

    nun-ill" (;i beverage then much used in Ireland). Here it may be remarked that hi O'Dounell's castle was always a plentiful supply of the choicest wines. Irish chieftains living on the sea coast carried on a considerable traffic with French and Spanish traders, who brought them wine and other products of their countries, and took fish and farm produce in return. This exchange of commodities was carried on extensively by the O'Uonuells at Ballyshannou, and in a manuscript pedigree of the family, which was written by Sir George Carew, he observes : — ''O'Donnell is the best lorde of fishe in Ireland, and exchange th fishe allwayes with foreign merchants for wyne, by which his call in other countryes the kinge of fishe."*

    Amongst the officials attached to an Irish chieftain's household, not the least curious was the "keeper of the bees," or purveyor of honey, an article mnch iu request for making midoil and medaib (mead and metheglim); also the astronomer, who was none other than the family doctor, who generally combined the science of the stars with an knowledge of the healing art. These lastnamed officials, with many others, were doubtless attached to O'Donnell's establishment, but being of inferior importance to the ollaves and bards, no particulars have been handed down concerning them.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Ballyshannon in Donegal. The O'Donnells here carried on an extensive trade with French and Spanish merchants. The foreign traders brought wine and other products of their countries, and took fish and farm produce in return. O'Donnell's castle always had a plentiful supply of the choicest wines. Sir George Carew wrote a manuscript pedigree of the family in which he observed that O'Donnell was the best lord of fish in Ireland, and always exchanged the fish with foreign merchants for wine. Carew noted that by this trade he was called in other countries the king of fish. Among the officials attached to an Irish chieftain's household was the keeper of the bees, the purveyor of honey, which was much in request for making mead and metheglin. There was also the astronomer, who was the family doctor, generally combining the science of the stars with a knowledge of the healing art. These officials and many others were doubtless attached to O'Donnell's establishment, but being of inferior importance to the ollaves and bards, no particulars have been handed down concerning them.

29. Plundering of Assaroe by O'Neill Forces, 1398

    Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal · 1398

    In 1398 Niall Oge O'Neill, king of Cinel-Owen, and the sons of Henry O'Neill led a great array against O'Donnell, arrived at Assaroe, and plundered the monastery of all its riches.

    Read the passage

    v.M. 1398— A great array was led by Niall Oge O'Neill, king of Kiuel-Owen, and the sons of Henry O'Neitl, against O'Donnell ; they arrived at Assaroe, and there plundered the monastery of nil its riches,

    a.d. 1422— Turlough, the son of Niall Garv O'Donnell, Lord of Tirconnell, took the habit of a monk in the monastery of Assaroe, after gaining victory over the present world.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 12

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at Assaroe, in 1398, Niall Oge O'Neill, king of Cinel-Owen, and the sons of Henry O'Neill led a great array against O'Donnell. They arrived at this place and plundered the monastery of all its riches.

30. Seven Churches and Bell Stone on Tory Island

    Tory Island · townland · Donegal

    Besides the round tower, the inhabitants of Tory Island point out the foundations of seven little churches or cells. A curious round stone is preserved on the island which, when struck, emits a sharp metallic sound, said to have been used before the introduction of bells to summon islanders to worship.

    Read the passage

    Besides the round tower, are pointed out by the inhabitants the foundations of seven little churches or cells, and a curious ronml stone is preserved, which, when struck, emits a sharp metallic sound. This is said to have been used before the introduction of bells, to summon the islanders to worship. The name of St, Columb Cille is also preserved in our neighbourhood by a well and a lake. The well is near the ono-mile-stone on the road to Donegal, and "stations" were formerly held there , the lake which boars the saint's name, lies about two miles north of Belleek, and is a good example of the numerous class of mountain tarns which are dotted here and there over our district.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 9

31. Tyrhugh Farming Society founded in Ballyshannon, 1800

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1800

    The Tyrhugh Farming Society was founded on the first Monday of November 1800, with its first meeting held in the house of Mrs. Pye in Ballyshannon. A committee of gentlemen was appointed to promote a linen market, good enclosures, wheat growing, bog reclamation, and other agricultural improvements.

    Read the passage

    In the year 1 800, "The Tyrhugh Farming Society'' wasfounded. The first meeting was held in the house of Mrs. Pye, in Ballyshannon, on the first Monday of November. A committee of gentlemen was appointed to promote the following laudable objects : — A linen market iuBallyshannon ; to encourage good enclosures, and qnickset hedges ; draining laud and growing wheat; the improvement and watering of meadow land; reclamation of bog lands j the cleanest and neatest farm houses, and best enclosed kitchen gardens ; best sallow gardens, &c. How long this society continued to exert its beneficial influence upon

    ■In 1S35 there was .1 nonet; In Cv-IilJ, wliUvh wu furnished with » g>ood collscUon ot trees and flowering shrub.-- ; it seems, howevur, tluit the detuaud for tlido wwuet fiuffleieut to encourage the continuance o£ the enterprise.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 31

32. Chambered cairn with human skeletons discovered in Finner Warren

    Finner · townland · Donegal

    Labourers building a wall in Finner Warren discovered a chambered cairn containing portions of several human skeletons, with teeth in some skulls still well preserved. No evidence of cremation was found, suggesting great antiquity for this form of burial.

    Read the passage

    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.

    The earliest form of human habitation, examples of which are to be found in our district, arc artificial caves or gouierrains. As the inhabitants increased in numbers, the woods could not ;i them the necessary shelter; and the construction of artificial cs partly for hiding treasure in, and partly as dwelling places, naturally suggested itself. The best example we possess of I rude dwellings is at the "Bully Bawn," where the sides of these

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here in Finner Warren, labourers building a wall came upon a chambered cairn, an artificially constructed sepulchral cave. Inside were portions of several human skeletons. The teeth in some of the skulls were in good preservation. There was no evidence of cremation having been used, and this form of cairn burial is supposed to be of great antiquity. There are three such examples in Finner Warren. One was unroofed some years ago and found to contain an urn full of burnt human bones. A stone circle stands in the same locality as well. The earliest form of human habitation found in the district takes the form of artificial caves. As inhabitants increased in numbers, the woods could not give them the necessary shelter, and the construction of artificial caves, partly for hiding treasure in and partly as dwelling places, naturally suggested itself.

33. Assaroe Falls on the River Erne at Ballyshannon

    Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal

    The River Erne takes its final plunge over the rocks at Assaroe, a fall of about 16 feet, after passing over numerous falls and rapids from Belleek. The river descends through cavernous limestones in its short four-mile course from Lough Erne.

    Read the passage

    thence into Upper Lough Ernefl")1 feet above sea level) ami then into Lower Lough Erno (1-i'J feet 9 inches above sea level),* and in the short distance of four miles from its exit, from the lake proper at Belleek, it passes over numerous falls and rapids, descending in many places tlio cavernous limestones through which it flows, till it takes its final plunge over the rocks at Assaroe (about 16 feet high). In its course, the river Erne (for such it may hi- n-L'itnlc.] from its source to ita cxii ) receives the following tributaries — ThvAmalee from the neighbourhood of Cootehillj the II near BaltyconnalJ ; tho ■ at Maguire's

    Bridge; the Claddagh at Swanlinbar; the Arney from Lough Macnean; and the SiQeea from Derrygonneliy.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 3

34. Ballyshannon Distillery Company building, a roofless ruin

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1827–1855

    On the site of the Old Manor Mill on the south side of the fall, the Ballyshannon Distillery Company erected a large building that operated from 1827 to 1855, producing upwards of 100,000 gallons of whiskey annually. It now stands as a roofless ruin.

    Read the passage

    The Old Manor Mill stood on the south side of the fall, and it was here that tenants were obliged by their leases, according to ancient usage, to bring their corn to be ground. Upon the site of this mill, was erected by the "Baliyshannon Distillery Company " a large bnihliug, now a rootless ruin, and in it was carried on an extensive trade. The distillery began to work in 1827, and ceased in 1852. While in full operation, upwards of 100,000 gallon* of whiskey were manufactured annually.

    Formerly Baliyshannon possessed a large Custom House staff, whose head quarters were in the house built by Sir IT. Caldwell, in the 17th century. In those days of timber and sngar duties the customs tariff was so extensive that the shipping trade of the town n-ave abundant employment to these officials. A I muse stood below the gas works, in the "Boat House hole," in which sugar and other commodities were bonded, and the approach to thfs was formerly called the "Dirty Causeway." The " bonding yards" and stores on the Mall all testify to the shipping enterprises of by-gone days. In 1831, 61 coasting, and 12 foreign vessels entered the port, in all 5,G00 tons.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon in Donegal, a roofless ruin stands where the Ballyshannon Distillery Company once operated. Before the distillery, this was the site of the Old Manor Mill, on the south side of the fall. Tenants were obliged by their leases, according to ancient usage, to bring their corn there to be ground. On the site of that mill, the company erected a large building, and in it was carried on an extensive trade. The distillery began to work in 1827 and ceased in 1852. While in full operation, upwards of 100,000 gallons of whiskey were manufactured annually. Today the building is a roofless ruin. Ballyshannon once had a large Custom House staff, headquartered in a house built by Sir H. Caldwell in the 17th century. In those days of timber and sugar duties, the customs tariff was so extensive that the shipping trade gave abundant employment to officials. A house below the gas works, in the "Boat House hole," bonded sugar and other commodities. Its approach was formerly called the "Dirty Causeway." In 1831, 61 coasting and 12 foreign vessels entered the port, in all 5,600 tons.

35. Ballyshannon port used to ship oats and troops to Holland

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1691

    In 1691 the government purchased 8,000 bushels of oats at Whitehaven to be sent to Ballyshannon for the purpose of transporting the army to Holland. The port of Ballyshannon, with its large garrison, was used as an embarkation point for troops and stores heading to the continental war.

    Read the passage

    The prolonged wars which England and Holland waged with France, from 1GS0 to 1697, after the termination of the Jacobite struggle in this country, engrossed the attention of King William's government. In the Calendar of Treasury Papers, at the year 1691, wo find the following strange entry in which our town is mentioned : "the government bought 8,000 bushels of oats at Whitehaven, at a cost of £726 16s. 8d, to be sent to Ballyshannon, for the purpose of the army being brought into

    I'AlHJt . rilAl. IIISTOKT. G3

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Ballyshannon now. In 1691, this town had a part to play in a wider European conflict. England and Holland were at war with France, and King William's government needed to move troops to the continent. The Treasury Papers for that year record a strange entry. The government bought 8,000 bushels of oats at Whitehaven, at a cost of £726 16s. 8d., to be sent here, to Ballyshannon, for the purpose of the army being brought into Holland. The port, with its garrison, served as an embarkation point for those troops and stores.

36. Burning of Assaroe Monastery, 1377

    Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal · 1377

    In 1377 the monastery of Assaroe near Ballyshannon was burned. This was one of several calamities to befall the foundation during the unsettled and warlike age in which it existed.

    Read the passage

    A.d. 1377— The monastery of Assaroe (near Ballyshannon) w as burned,

    v.M. 1398— A great array was led by Niall Oge O'Neill, king of Kiuel-Owen, and the sons of Henry O'Neitl, against O'Donnell ; they arrived at Assaroe, and there plundered the monastery of nil its riches,

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 12

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at the waterfall at Assaroe in Donegal, a monastery stood that was burned in 1377. Twenty-one years later, in 1398, Niall Oge O'Neill, king of Kinel-Owen, and the sons of Henry O'Neill led a great array against O'Donnell. They came to Assaroe and plundered the monastery of all its riches.

37. Drowning of Private David Mcintosh near Ballyshannon, 1832

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1832

    Private David Mcintosh of the 91st Argyleshire Regiment was drowned near Ballyshannon on 28 June 1832, aged 38 years. He had served in the regiment for 21 years at home and abroad, and his comrades erected a tomb in his memory.

    Read the passage

    "This tomb was erected by the officers, non-commissioned officers and privates of the light company of the 91 Argylesbire- Regiment, as a mark of their esteem and respect, in memory of Private David Mcintosh, who was drowned near Ballyshanaon, 28 June, 1832, aged 38 years, after having served in the regiment at home and abroad, during a period of 21 years."

    " Here lies the body of William Bean, late private in the 79th T 1st Company, who departed this life January 7th, 1801, aged 22 years. As a token of regard for their deceased comrade, this stone was erected by the non-commissioned officers and prii

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 26

38. Hearth and Window Tax on 108 Ballyshannon houses

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1800

    At the time of the Union, 108 houses in Ballyshannon paid the Hearth and Window Tax, yielding £307 per annum. The tax was described as oppressive.

    Read the passage

    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.

    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

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Ballyshannon, this is a town that once had 108 houses paying the Hearth and Window Tax, a tax described as oppressive. The total taken each year was £307. That was at the time of the Union. A charter was granted to the town, and a subsequent one to Lord Folliott. Under it a Seneschal's court was established there, presided over by Lord Folliott as Lord of the manor, who became owner of the town and the surrounding lands on both sides of the river. Thomas, second Baron Folliott, had a son and heir, Henry, third baron. When Henry died the title became extinct. The Folliotts of Holybrook house, whose present representative is Colonel John Folliott, descend from a common ancestor with Lord Folliott. About the middle of the 17th century a man named Patrick Conolly lived in the town. 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 living with him. Two gentlemen came to the town, sent to secure the return of members to the Irish parliament. They lodged at Conolly's inn, and perceiving that William was an unusually lusty, ingenuous boy, they induced him to follow.

39. Ruined and Depopulated Streets of Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    By the late 1870s, Ballyshannon's general aspect had improved with increased shipping and larger markets, but ruined houses unfit for habitation still marred the appearance of the streets, reflecting the town's depopulation.

    Read the passage

    The general aspect of the town has of late years decidedly improved; the shipping has increased;* the markets are larger than formerly; more money is being circulated throughout the country. With these indications, we may fairiy indulge the hope that the ebb-tide of our prosperity has turned ; that coming years may bring fresh capital and enterprise to our depopulated town ; and that the ruined houses (unfit for human habitation), which now mar the appearance of the streets, may be superseded by respectable, and substantial huuse-s, the existence of which would induce new comers to take np their permanent abode in our midst.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

40. Bundrowes Castle kept in repair by Folliott

    Bundrowes Castle · castle · Donegal · 1610

    An agreement was made in 1610 that Sir Henry Folliott would keep Ballyshannon Castle and Bundrowes Castle in repair and defensible state, in exchange for a fee farm grant of the lands between the two castles.

    Read the passage

    Ballyshannon was garrisoned by a strong body of English soldiers, under the command of Sift* Henry Fol/iotf, "Captain of foot at Ballishanan," who was destined from, henceforth to occupy a prominent position in this town and neighbourhood, and to become this principal landowner of the district. lie was styled "governor of Baliishanan," and received the order of Knighthood from Robert, earl of Essex, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, on 6th September, 1599; he was subsequently raised to the peerage of Ireland, under the title of Baron FoUiatt of Balliehanan, on --lid January, 1Q19. The first lands which lie seems to have been possessed of, were the abbey lands at Assaroe and lands at Belleek, both of which ho obtained, not by grant from the crown, but by purchase from the original patentees, about tlio year 1G 10.* In this year also an agreement was made between the English government and Sir Henry, that on condition of his keeping the castle of Ballyshannnti and that of Bundrowes in repair, and without charge to the ling; holding them always in a fit and defensible state; if trouble and rebellion should arise, ho should obtain a fee farm grant, as "undertaker" of the lands lying between the tiro castles. In addition to the lands thus acquired, the salmon and eel fisheries fell into his hands.

    The defences of the harbour and Lough Erne were also provided for, and for this purpose a special corps was organized, as the following extract from the calendar of state papers, 1G06-8 shows: — " 1G07, May 15th. The king to Sir Arthur Chichester: Captain William Cole to be continued by patent, in the place he has for many years held, of Captain of the king's long boats and targes at Ballisharmon, and Lovgh Erne, with an allowance of 3s. 4d. for himself by the day, and 8d. a piece for ten men, &c." Ou tho summit of a hill overlooking the Bar, are the remains of a circular fort, evidently intended for the purpose of defending tho entrance to the harbour; this fort probably belongs to the English period, and may have been constructed in the time of James tho First.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 18

    As the companion tells it

    Right here beside the road is Bundrowes Castle, in Donegal. Sir Henry Folliott commanded a strong body of English soldiers at Ballyshannon, and he was styled governor of Ballyshannon. He received the order of knighthood from Robert, earl of Essex, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, in September 1599, and was later raised to the peerage of Ireland as Baron Folliott of Ballyshannon. His first lands seem to have been the abbey lands at Assaroe and lands at Belleek, both obtained not by grant from the crown but by purchase from the original patentees, about 1610. In that same year an agreement was made between the English government and Sir Henry. On condition of his keeping the castle of Ballyshannon and that of Bundrowes in repair, and without charge to the king, holding them always in a fit and defensible state, he should obtain a fee farm grant as undertaker of the lands lying between the two castles, if trouble and rebellion should arise. In addition to the lands thus acquired, the salmon and eel fisheries fell into his hands. The defences of the harbour and Lough Erne were also provided for. The king wrote to Sir Arthur Chichester that Captain William Cole should be continued by patent in the place he had held for many years, as captain of the king's long boats and targes at Ballyshannon and Lough Erne, with an allowance for himself and for ten men. On the summit of a hill overlooking the Bar are the remains of a circular fort, evidently intended for defending the entrance to the harbour. This fort probably belongs to the English period and may have been constructed in the time of James the First.

41. Glacial erratics at Skegus and Doon Hill

    Dunmuckrum · townland · Donegal

    Skegus on the north side of Ballyshannon and Doon Hill in the townland of Dunmuckrum on the south side are classic examples of saddleback hills formed by glacial action. These hills are accumulated masses of limestone boulders and drift transported by ice moving from east to west.

    Read the passage

    Tho geological period known as tho "glacial period," or ice age of this country, is remarkably well exemplified in the neighbourhood of Ballyshannon. Not only have wo the erratics^ or block-;, carried from a distance, but where the rocks are newly exposed from their capping of boulder clay (the term used for the drift as transported), we find the polished and striated surface produced by the passage of glaciers over them. From this testimony of the rocks we have ample and satisfactory proof that glaciers did pass over our district, and wo have further evidence of the exact direction in which they travelled, nntil they finally passed into the sea whore they assumed the form of bergs, or floating ice. For good examples of transported blocks and boulder clay, we may point to Skegus on the north side of tho town, and the Doon Hill on the south side (in the townland of Dunmuckrum) both of which are typical examples of the hundreds of similar saddleback hills oi Ireland, which owe their existence

    * Summer water In the lute U 1SS feet above high B-ater at 10 fett spring tides at

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 3

42. Jacobites march to Belleek to block Enniskillen relief

    near Belleek · parish · Fermanagh · 1689

    Having heard of Col. Lloyd's approach from Enniskillen to relieve Ballyshannon, the Jacobite army marched to Belleek to prevent them from reaching the town. They placed themselves in the most advantageous position they could select and awaited the enemy.

    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

43. Megaceros Horns Found at Ballymacward

    Ballymacward · townland · Galway · 1691

    In 1691, while digging for marl near Ballymacward, a pair of Megaceros horns was found buried ten feet under solid ground. Major Polliott kept the horns in his possession.

    Read the passage

    distress succeeded, and it was at that time that General Folliolt, the owner of Ward town, decided to hnild Wardtown Castle, thereby giving employment to the distressed classes of the neighbourhood. The remuneration they received daring the progress of the work was sixpence pat day, ami their food. Considering the value of money in those days, this was a liberal allowance, and fully equivalent to 2s. per day at the present time. Before the erection of Wardtown Castle, the Folliott family had a residence on their property there. In a "Collection of Papers communicated to the Royal Society" by Thomas M"lynenx, M.D., F.R.S.E., the following passage occurs:— "In the year 1 G91, Major Polliott told mo, that digging for marl near the town Ballymacward, where he lives, not far from Ballyshamion, ho found buried ten foot under plain solid ground, a pair of these sort of horns (Megaceros), which he keeps still in his possession." General Folliott, the builder of Wardtown Castle, was an ancestor of the present Colonel John Polliott, of Holybrook House, Co. Sligo, who still holds a portion of the lauds of the old barons of Ballyshmmon, and is descended from the same stock. Ballyshannon was in the last century an important military depot. Besides the infantry barracks on the left hand side of the bridge, and the cavalry barracks on the opposite side of the road, the Rock barracks seem to have been built prior to the year 1800, when all three were in occupation together. A detachment of soldiers was also stationed for a time at Fortnason. The cavalry barracks (which stood within the present market yard enclosure), was probably built with stones from O'Donn ell's castle, but no vestige of it now remains, the ruins having been removed previous to the building of the railed wall which now separates the market yard from the street.

    The introduction of the military element into this town upon

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 30

44. Mullaghnashee as a fairy hill of the gentle folk

    Mullaghnashee · townland · Roscommon

    Mullaghnashee was regarded from time immemorial as a 'gentle spot,' a fairy dwelling place. The termination 'skee' (sidh or sith) in the name is of mythological origin, referencing the fairy folk who were believed to inhabit the interior of hills.

    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

45. O'Clery Buried at Assaroe Monastery

    Assaroe · waterfall · Donegal

    Cosnakmach O'Clery was buried under the asylum of God and St. Bernard in the monastery of Assaroe. The monastery served as a burial ground for notable figures connected to the O'Donnell patronage.

    Read the passage

    A.d. — Cosnakmaeh. O'Clery was buried under the asylum of God and St. Bernard, in the monastery of Assaroe.

    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.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 12

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at Assaroe, the monastery once stood. Cosnakmach O'Clery was buried under the asylum of God and St. Bernard in this monastery. The monastery did not enjoy uninterrupted prosperity during its existence. Like everything else in Ireland at that period, it 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. In later times, when the English directed their energies to the conquest of Tirconnell, Assaroe was the first place in the neighbourhood which the invading army surrounded and attacked. Its fortunes were closely interwoven with those of its patrons and supporters, the O'Donnells. When they fell, the monastery met with the same fate, ruin and confiscation.

46. Ballyshannon held against Cromwell's republicans

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1649–1653

    In the wars between Cromwell and the Royalists, Ballyshannon was for a time held against the republicans, and the way was kept open for the passage of royalist troops between it and Connaught. Sir Charles Coote eventually reduced the whole of Ulster into subjection.

    Read the passage

    struggle, history furnishes few details of local interest. In the wars between Cromwell and the Royalists, Bullyshannon for a time was held against the republicans, and the way was kepi open for the passage of the royalist troops between it and Cuunanght. Oliver Cromwell, however, never himself visited this part of Ireland, his military operations having been carried out by Sir Charles Coote, who eventually reduced the wnule of Ulsttr into subjection,

    From the year 1641 to 1CC1 a gap occurs in the parliamentary representation of our borough (see list of members) dining which time the Irish parliament never

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    Ballyshannon, here in Donegal. In the Cromwell wars, from 1649 to 1653, this town held out against the republicans. The way stayed open for royalist troops passing between Ballyshannon and Connaught. Oliver Cromwell himself never came to this part of Ireland. His operations were carried out by Sir Charles Coote, who eventually brought all of Ulster into subjection. History furnishes few details of local interest for the struggle here, so there is little more to tell.

47. Ballyshannon's Great September Fair

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    Ballyshannon held four fairs annually, with the September 18th fair being the greatest event of the year. It began with cattle sales on the first day, followed by lighter merchandise, drawing pedlars and hawkers from all parts of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    Iu olden times there were not so many fairs held in the town; four only in the year, viz., on April 4th; the Tuesday before JunelHh; September 18th; and Tuesday before November 11th. The fair held on September 18 th was, as it still remains, the great event of the year, and in former times was much larger than it now is . It began on the 1 8th, and was continued for the following days. The first day was principally devoted to cattle sales, and the following ones to lighter merchandise; pedlars and hawkers used to bring their goods from all parts of Ireland, and considerable sales were made at this gala time. The great crowda

    im

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Ballyshannon in Donegal, you are passing through a town that once held only four fairs a year. The dates were April 4th, the Tuesday before June 11th, September 18th, and the Tuesday before November 11th. The September 18th fair was the great event of the year, and in olden times it was much larger than it later became. It began on the 18th and ran for the following days. The first day was given over principally to cattle sales. The days after were for lighter merchandise. Pedlars and hawkers brought their goods from all parts of Ireland, and considerable sales were made at this gala time.

48. Fall Park and Fish Lane at Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    The site of the night raid was known as Fall Park or Pool bank. In former times the area from the water to the summit of Mullaghnashee was an unbroken green sward, and the street was called Fish Lane before being renamed Park Lane in the early nineteenth century.

    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

49. Geological fault at the Pool, Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    At the Pool in Ballyshannon, a large fault separating carboniferous limestone from metamorphic rocks is visible for a considerable distance to the west. The road from Ballyshannon to Pettigo marks the boundary between these two great geological series.

    Read the passage

    The town of Ballyshannon etands on the north-west margin of the earbamjbrous Um<:sto7ie which forms the extensive plain known as the "Great Central Plain of Ireland;" but that the lowest rocks of the lower carboniferous period are to be found in Ballyshannon is not to be inferred from this statement, as a large fault, or series of faults (the technical term for a fracture iu a rock), separate the limestone from the metamorphic rocks which are to be found immediately north of the town. The observer has only to go down to the Pool, where he will see these "faults" well marked for a considerable distance to the west. Along the road leading from Ballyshannon to Pettigo is the boundary line which divides the two great series— the limestone and the inetamorphic*

    The rocks of our district may be divided into two classes. I. The Carboniferous Limestones and their Associated Sandstones. II. The Metaraorphic Series.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 2

50. Hangman's Rock, Ballyshannon's gallows hill

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    Near the fair-green of Ballyshannon stood the Tyburn or gallowshill, on the summit of a steep rock still called Carrick-na-croghery, the hangman's rock. The gallows once stood there and criminals were executed by hanging and decapitation in former times.

    Read the passage

    Near the fair-green was the Tyburn, or gallowshill of Baltyshannon; upon the snmmit of a steep rock which still retains its distinctive name, Carriek-na*crogherif, i.e. the hangman's rock, once stood the gallows, where doubtless many a culprit was executed in the "good old times." Prom various passages in Irish antiquities it appears that criminals were executed both by hanging and decapitation, and various names of places in Ireland still preserve the remembrance of such modes of punishment. In our district are several names which owe their origin to the introduction of the English element. For example the well called Tdbertuma&sormgh, i.e. the well of the Saxon, on the north side of the town, derived its name from being dug or used by the English settlers. The word "Camp" which is the name Of a email townland near the town, owe3 its origin to its having been the site of an English encampment, probably during the period of the O'Donnells. "Park," a name which occurs more than once, is another of these "borrowed" words,* The village of Gairismi on the shores of Longh Melvin, owes its name to its selection as a military station in the disturbances which took place towards the middle of the 17th century, and not only is this circumstance preserved in the name of the village, but by vestiges of the old military barrack, and by the name "bairack street" where the building stood. At "the Garrison" (as it was styled in a letter printed in 1G43), were iron works,f carried on by English settlers, and it was regarded, from its close proximity to the " kingdom of Connanght," as a pass worthy of being gu;i

    Many of the local names in common use two centuries back

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 54

51. Mullaghnashee Church's Oak Shingle Roof

    Mullaghnashee · townland · Roscommon · 1692

    The first church at Mullaghnashee in Ballyshannon was not built substantially and was roofed with oak shingles. In 1692, a fresh roof of shingles was put on the church, having been brought from Enniskillen by Lough Erne.

    Read the passage

    The oldest existing book goes back to Easter, 1691. At that date the church seems to have been a good while built, and in want of considerable repair, as the following extract from the vestry hook of 1G92 shows — li it was ordered that the sum of twenty-one pounds, should be apploded and levied off ye parish of Kilbarron, for the reparation of ye church and other pious uses." It should however be remembered that the first church on Mullaghnashee was not built in the substantial manner of more modern buildings: it was roofed with shingles. These were thin boards, generally of oak, and a fresh roof composed of them was pnt on the church in 1692, the shingles having been brought from Enniskillen by Louirh Erne. This method of roofing churches existed in Ireland from the earliest Christian period.*

    At the time of which wo are speaking, slates as well as shingles seem to have been simultaneously used, as the following item at the year 1G92-3 shows — "To 15 hundred of slates drawn from yo church to ye castle." The old church did not stand upon the same ground as the present one, but farther down and nearer to Hie iron gate. The west wall of the churchyard stood near to the

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 23

52. American water thistle abundant in the Erne

    near River Erne · river · Cavan · 1836

    The American water thistle, introduced into County Down about 1836, rapidly spread throughout Ireland and has become abundant in the Erne. It has proved very injurious to salmon fisheries and river navigation.

    Read the passage

    about 1836, from wbimce it rapidly spread throughout Ireland; it has proved very injurious to salmon fisheries, and to riTer j iav i Ration; it is abundant in the Erne.

    Filictfi.— The fmnily of ferns are welt represented iu our neurlibourhuod. The following species, besides many others well known, occur:— Scaly spleeuwort (cn-tmwh effi polypody ( p. mdgarm), Alpine holly fern (iapiditm toncftttw), prickly shield fern {<t. rrcW^f™). angular leaved s. (a. angnlarc) male fern (a.jtlt'x miis) broad prickly s. (a. eMUUattim). Brittle bladder fern (cij*(opre>ixjhi ; iili.<\ wall rue (a.<ptem'nm rntii-mnraria\ common spleenwort fa. trkhsmtaMt), green do. (a. virkle) sea do.

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 51

53. Ballyshannon Bar improvements and surveys from 1785

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1785–1852

    From 1785 onwards various schemes were proposed for deepening the Bar at Ballyshannon. Engineers Richard Evans, Robert Stevenson and Son, and William Forsyth surveyed the Bar at different times, but funds were never sufficient for full completion, though Colonel Connolly spent over £3,000 from private resources on rock removal.

    Read the passage

    For more than a hundred years past, various schemes have been proposed for deepening and otherwise improving the Bar., In (lie spring of 1785, a survey and report of the Bar was made by Richard Evans, an engineer of eminence in his day. His proposal was to direct the course of the river to the south side of the rocks, by which plan he expected to have from eight to ten feet at low water, on the Bar. The entire cost of his specification, including the necessary breakwater, was £2,080. He also proposed the construction of a canal between the harbour and Lough Erne, and this part of his proposal was attempted, for in 1789, a company was formed under the style of the " Lough Erne and Ballyghannon Navigation Company," aud a sum of money was granted by government for the purpose, but the rebellion of 1798 put as end to the project, and a solitary lock and some rongh cuttings at Belleek are all that remain of the enterprise.

    In 1832, Robert Stevenson and Son, the eminent engineers were employed to make a survey of our Bar and Harbour, with a view to tha improvement of the port, and the construction of a tramway to Belleek. Their plan was simply the deepening of the Bar aud "Patch," to the extent of three feet, and the removal of a portion of the Black Rock. The estimated cost of this work was £5,5 Gl 2s. The cost of extension of the quay was estimated at £397 2s. The tramway by which they proposed to connect the harbour with Lough Erne, was to commence with a deep cutting upon leaving the harbour. It was then, by means of a small bridge or tunnel of GO feet in length, to pass under the Main Street, immediately above the Barracks, and follow the north side of the river, crossing it at the Mullans by a bridge of four arches, and terminating at the quay of Belleek. The estimated coat of this work was £18,133 4s. 9d. Following up Messrs , Stephenson's proposals, an effort wa8 made by those

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39

54. Battle at Avonmore ford against the English

    Avonmore · street · Dublin

    O'Donnell, joined by O'Neill, marched against the English and defeated them at a ford on the Avonmore. He then returned to Tirconnell in triumph.

    Read the passage

    Justice was on the march with a powerful army to attack him. He immediately mustered his forces, and being joined by O'Neill, marched against the English, A battle was fought at a ford on the Avonmore, where the English were defeated. O'Donneil then returned to Tirconnell in triumph. After a succession of victories aud defeatSj this Red Hugh O'Donneil, the most illustrious man of his name, and one of the most extraordinary men that Ireland ever produced, went to the Spanisli court in the beginning of the year 1602, for the purpose of inducing that King to send an army into Ireland. There he was seized with sudden illness and died on the 10th of September, in the same year. His body was removed to Valladolid, and interred iu tho monastery of St. Francis, with all the state and honour the Spanish court could confer. The friendly intercouree between the Spaniards and the O'Donneil family was destined to survive the wreck of their supremacy in Tirconnell ; for even to the present day there are direct descendants of that illustrious family, who occupy a distinguished position in the Spanish court.

    45

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    Along here, a ford on the Avonmore saw a battle that is worth knowing about. Justice was on the march with a powerful army to attack O'Donnell. O'Donnell immediately mustered his forces, and being joined by O'Neill, marched against the English. A battle was fought at a ford on the Avonmore, where the English were defeated. O'Donnell then returned to Tirconnell in triumph. This was Red Hugh O'Donnell, described as the most illustrious man of his name, and one of the most extraordinary men that Ireland ever produced. After a succession of victories and defeats, he went to the Spanish court in the beginning of the year 1602, to induce that king to send an army into Ireland. There he was seized with sudden illness and died on the 10th of September in the same year. His body was removed to Valladolid and interred in the monastery of St. Francis, with all the state and honour the Spanish court could confer. Direct descendants of that family still occupy a distinguished position in the Spanish court.

55. Carricknadanty rock linked to O'Donnell bards

    Ballymacward · townland · Galway

    In the townland of Ballymacward, a shore rock called Carricknadanty means 'the rock of the dam or poems.' The name may originate from the MacWard family, hereditary bards of the O'Donnells, who held the townland.

    Read the passage

    In the townlnnd of Ballymactmrd is a roek at the shore called Catrkknadaiiti/, i.e. the rock of the dam or poems. This name may owe its origin to having been owned by the Macwarcta, who were the hereditary bards of the O'Donnells, and held the townland in which the rock is situated.

    The following names occnr inour district — Ardeelan, the height of the sea-gulls. BuUintru, the town of the strand, Baifyiiaciurwk, the town of the rock. Bdllynamuddagh, the town of the bodat&s, or churls. Behy, btrehland,. BeUeek (Bel-leice), the ford mouth of the flagstone. Bmidoran, the mouth of the Doran or Dobliar (Utile water), supposed to be the ancient name of the Bradoge. Camlin^ crooked line (referring to the course of the river). Ckmghbolie, stony booley or dairy place. CatfeUackm, stouey cashei. Carricknahorna, tko rock of the barley. Clontyt the meadow of tho carpenter. -ray round hill. Oroc

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 53

56. Cavalry Barracks Built from O'Donnell's Castle Stones

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    The cavalry barracks in Ballyshannon's market yard was likely built using stones from O'Donnell's castle. All vestiges of the barracks were removed before the railed wall separating the market yard from the street was built.

    Read the passage

    distress succeeded, and it was at that time that General Folliolt, the owner of Ward town, decided to hnild Wardtown Castle, thereby giving employment to the distressed classes of the neighbourhood. The remuneration they received daring the progress of the work was sixpence pat day, ami their food. Considering the value of money in those days, this was a liberal allowance, and fully equivalent to 2s. per day at the present time. Before the erection of Wardtown Castle, the Folliott family had a residence on their property there. In a "Collection of Papers communicated to the Royal Society" by Thomas M"lynenx, M.D., F.R.S.E., the following passage occurs:— "In the year 1 G91, Major Polliott told mo, that digging for marl near the town Ballymacward, where he lives, not far from Ballyshamion, ho found buried ten foot under plain solid ground, a pair of these sort of horns (Megaceros), which he keeps still in his possession." General Folliott, the builder of Wardtown Castle, was an ancestor of the present Colonel John Polliott, of Holybrook House, Co. Sligo, who still holds a portion of the lauds of the old barons of Ballyshmmon, and is descended from the same stock. Ballyshannon was in the last century an important military depot. Besides the infantry barracks on the left hand side of the bridge, and the cavalry barracks on the opposite side of the road, the Rock barracks seem to have been built prior to the year 1800, when all three were in occupation together. A detachment of soldiers was also stationed for a time at Fortnason. The cavalry barracks (which stood within the present market yard enclosure), was probably built with stones from O'Donn ell's castle, but no vestige of it now remains, the ruins having been removed previous to the building of the railed wall which now separates the market yard from the street.

    The introduction of the military element into this town upon

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 30

57. Charters granted to Ballyshannon and Lord Folliott

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1613–1622

    Ballyshannon received a charter in 1613, followed by a subsequent charter granted to Lord Folliott dated 9th April 1622. Under the latter, a Seneschal's court was established, with Lord Folliott presiding as Lord of the manor and owner of the town and surrounding lands on both sides of the river.

    Read the passage

    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.

    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

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon, you are in a town that received its charter in 1613. A second charter followed, granted to Lord Folliott and dated the 9th of April 1622. Under that later charter, a Seneschal's court was established in the town, with Lord Folliott presiding as Lord of the manor. He became owner of the town itself and the surrounding lands on both sides of the river. Thomas, second Baron Folliott of Ballyshannon, was born in 1613. His son and heir, Henry, third baron, died and the title became extinct. The Folliotts of Holybrook house, of whom Colonel John Folliott is the present representative, are descended from a common ancestor with Lord Folliott. About the middle of the 17th century, a man named Patrick Conolly lived in the town. 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 living with him. Two gentlemen came to secure the return of members to the Irish parliament. They lodged at Conolly's inn, and seeing that William was an unusually intelligent boy, they induced him to follow.

58. Cromlech with urn of burnt bones in Finner Warren

    Finner · townland · Donegal

    Finner Warren contains three cromlechs, one of which was unroofed some years before the book's writing and found to contain an urn filled with burnt human bones.

    Read the passage

    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.

    The earliest form of human habitation, examples of which are to be found in our district, arc artificial caves or gouierrains. As the inhabitants increased in numbers, the woods could not ;i them the necessary shelter; and the construction of artificial cs partly for hiding treasure in, and partly as dwelling places, naturally suggested itself. The best example we possess of I rude dwellings is at the "Bully Bawn," where the sides of these

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here in Finner Warren there are three cromlechs. One of them was unroofed some years ago and found to contain an urn full of burnt human bones. So someone was cremated and their remains placed there in a vessel, long before anyone thought to open the stone. In the same locality there is a stone circle and a chambered cairn. That cairn was discovered by labourers while they were building a wall in the warren. Inside this artificially constructed sepulchral cave were portions of several human skeletons. The teeth in some of the skulls were in good preservation. In this case there was no evidence of cremation having been used. This form of cairn burial is supposed to be of great antiquity. The earliest form of human habitation found in the district is the artificial cave or souterrain. As inhabitants increased in numbers, the woods could not give them the necessary shelter, and the construction of artificial caves, partly for hiding treasure and partly as dwelling places, naturally suggested itself.

59. Danish settlement remembered in Donegal's name

    Donegal · town · Donegal

    The text explains that the Danes had a settlement near Ballyshannon, evidenced by the county name Donegal, derived from 'Dun-na-nGall' meaning 'the fortress of the foreigners.' While raths existed across Ireland long before the Danes, the Danes confined their settlements to coastal areas.

    Read the passage

    period of t lie Dmiish invasion, and litis impression still lingers hi onr local traditions. It is, however, now well known dint these raths existed in Ireland long prior to the arrival of the Danes ; moreover these antique dwelling-places are found distributed all over the country, inland us well as seaboard, though it is known that the Danes confined their settlements to places bordering on the coast. That the Danes had a settlement in our neighbourhood, there can be no doubt ; the very name of our county — Donegal, Dtm-tui-n Gall. i.e. >!<>■ fortress of the foreigner* — preserves a remembrance of this. There is, however, more direct

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 40

60. Emigration from Ballyshannon aboard the brig Jane to Quebec, 1836

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1836

    In the spring of 1836 the brig Jane departed Ballyshannon for Quebec carrying 100 passengers, described as industrious farmers and mechanics. The same year saw the brigs Hope and Charlotte also depart for St. John's with many passengers, part of a sustained wave of emigration from the port.

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    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

    J

    Internet Archive BallyshannonItsHistoryAntiquitiesOpt, Chapter 39