The diocese of Limerick, ancient and medieval

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. The Rental of Connello (1452) and Shanid estates

   Shanid · electoral division · Limerick · 1452

   A document called the Rental of Connello, Co. Limerick, dated 1452, survives and gives the extent of estates and services within that district. It lists the free tenants and farmers of Shanid, including townlands such as Ballyroe, Granagh, Ballyane, Kilcosgrave, and Glencorbry in the parish of Glin.

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   There is extant a document called the Rental of Connello, Co. Limerick, and dated 1452, giving the extent

   1 See Gilbert’s Viceroys of Ireland .

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick

2. Boen settles near St. Ita's monastery

   Killeedy · parish · Limerick

   Fleeing political disturbances in Connaught, Boen sought refuge in Munster and found a home in the tuath of Corcoide near St. Ita's monastery at Killeedy. He worked there as an artificer and married St. Ita's sister, Nessa.

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   in the tuath of Corcoide, near the monastery of St. Ita. where he was employed as an artificer in wood and stone* Here he became acquainted with St. Ita’s sister, Nessa, whom he married with St. Ita’s approval. About a.d. 550, a son was bom to them, and at baptism received the name of Coemghin (Kevin, beautiful offspring), which was changed into Mochoemog (My Kevin) by St. Ita. He is now known as Pulcherius, the Latin equivalent. In his infancy he was nursed at the monastery like St. Brendan, where he was trained up in the practice of every virtue until he reached his twentieth year. Then he left Killeedy to perfect himself in ecclesiastical science at the great school of Bangor, under St. Comgal.

   Here Pulcherius distinguished himself so much by his learning and piety that Comgal advised him to found a monastery wherever the Lord should direct him. After completing his studies at this famous seat of learning, he returned to Munster, where he was introduced to the chieftain of Ely O’Carrol, who gave him \ site for a monastery in his territory.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 48

3. Cummian Foda's burial at Clonfert

   Clonfert (Butson) · townland · Galway · 661

   Abbot-Bishop Cummian Foda died in 661 in his native Kerry at the age of seventy-two. His body was transported up the River Shannon in a boat to be interred at Clonfert.

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   In after years he become Abbot-Bishop of Clonfert, which was founded by his distinguished countryman, :St. Brendan. He died a.d. 661, 2 at the age of seventytwo years, in his native Kerry, and was taken up the Shannon in a boat to be interred at Clonfert, as the following poem testifies : —

   The Luimneach did not bear on its bosom of the race of

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 49

4. Danes plunder Killeedy in North Kerry, 845

   Killeedy · parish · Limerick · 845

   In 845 a Danish fleet landed an army in North Kerry which plundered the country as far as Kill Ita, now Killeedy. The raid was part of a wider pattern of Danish attacks across the Shannon region.

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   845. A fleet landed an army in North Kerry, who plundered the country as far as Kill Ita (Killeedy). In the meantime the party on the Shannon were actively engaged in the east of the county, where they captured Farannan Comharba of Armagh, who was at Cluain Comairdi (Colman’s Well), and took him to the fleet. Farannan was forced to fly from his see by Turgesius, who usurped the primacy, and held it till his death, which took place this year. Farannan was then liberated, and allowed to return to Armagh.

   857. Another fleet landed a host of Danes in North Kerry, who plundered Kill Ita for the second time, and extended their depredations as far as the Shannon, and eastward as far as Cashel. Then came a cessation of invasions for a period of forty years, but the foreigners were not idle all this time, as history informs us that they were seeking fresh fields along the coast of southern Europe.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 60

5. Danes plunder Kilpeacon and Mungret, enter Shannon

   Kilpeacon · townland · Limerick · 825–835

   A Danish fleet entered the Luimnech (the Shannon) and plundered the churches of Kilpeacon and Mungret before turning attention to the treasures of Hy Conaill Gabhra. This was among the earliest Danish raids into County Limerick.

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   Kilpeacon and Mungret. A fleet entered the Luimnech, as the Shannon was then called, from the city to the sea, and devoted their attention to the treasures of Hy Conaill Gabhra. This tribe, under the command of their chieftain Donnchadh, head of the Hy Fidhgente, assisted by Niall Son Cennfaeladh (Kenealy), encountered and#defeated them at Shanid, near Shanagolden, in the year 834.

   845. A fleet landed an army in North Kerry, who plundered the country as far as Kill Ita (Killeedy). In the meantime the party on the Shannon were actively engaged in the east of the county, where they captured Farannan Comharba of Armagh, who was at Cluain Comairdi (Colman’s Well), and took him to the fleet. Farannan was forced to fly from his see by Turgesius, who usurped the primacy, and held it till his death, which took place this year. Farannan was then liberated, and allowed to return to Armagh.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 60

6. Death of St. Molua near Clonfert Molua

   Clonfert Molua · ecclesiastical site · Laois · 608

   While travelling home from Sean Ross, Molua grew weary and rested on the eastern side of the bog extending from Roscrea to Clonfert Molua. His last sickness came upon him there, and after receiving the last sacraments from his companion Stellan, he died in the year 608.

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   When Molua felt that his end was near at hand, he paid a visit to St. Dagan, who informed our Saint that his successor would be Latan. Soon after he went to see St. Cronan, who lived near Roscrea, at Sean Ross, near the lake now known in its dried-up form as Mona Hincha, where he received Holy Communion. Immediately he left for his own monastery, but growing weary on the journey he rested somewhere on the eastern side of the bog extending from Roscrea to Clonfert Molua. Here his last sickness came upon him, and Stellan, his companion, at once administered to him the last Sacraments after which Molua’s pure spirit passed out of this world to join the “ family of Heaven.” His death took place in the year 608.

   When the corpse was taken to a neighbouring cell,

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 53

7. Hy Fidhgente defeat Danes at Shanid, 834

   Shanid · electoral division · Limerick · 834

   The tribe of Hy Conaill Gabhra under their chieftain Donnchadh, head of the Hy Fidhgente, assisted by Niall Son Cennfaeladh, encountered and defeated a Danish force at Shanid near Shanagolden in 834.

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   Kilpeacon and Mungret. A fleet entered the Luimnech, as the Shannon was then called, from the city to the sea, and devoted their attention to the treasures of Hy Conaill Gabhra. This tribe, under the command of their chieftain Donnchadh, head of the Hy Fidhgente, assisted by Niall Son Cennfaeladh (Kenealy), encountered and#defeated them at Shanid, near Shanagolden, in the year 834.

   845. A fleet landed an army in North Kerry, who plundered the country as far as Kill Ita (Killeedy). In the meantime the party on the Shannon were actively engaged in the east of the county, where they captured Farannan Comharba of Armagh, who was at Cluain Comairdi (Colman’s Well), and took him to the fleet. Farannan was forced to fly from his see by Turgesius, who usurped the primacy, and held it till his death, which took place this year. Farannan was then liberated, and allowed to return to Armagh.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 60

8. St. Ita's shrine at Killeedy and pilgrim devotions

   Killeedy · parish · Limerick

   The shrine of St. Ita at Killeedy is strewn with votive flowers left by pious pilgrims. Married women in particular frequent the church, cultivating a special devotion to the saint and performing a peculiar ceremony before leaving.

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   the place is strewn with flowers — votive-offerings of the pious pilgrims at the shrine of their beloved Patroness. It is much frequented by married women, who cultivate a special devotion to the Saint, and before leaving the church, perform a peculiar ceremony.

   About four miles south-west of Killeedy, on the northern slope of a hill called Seeconglass, there is an ovalshaped enclosure, containing about an acre of land. It was originally surrounded by a dry wall of the cyclopean style of architecture the dkbris of which are still there, and just inside the entrance the foundation of a small building is visible. Boolaveeda or Ita’s dairy, is the name it is called by the inhabitants of the locality. Tradition says that the milk that was used in the convent was brought every day from this dairy by a donkey. One day, as the poor beast was passing through the townland of Tournafulla with his accustomed burden, a cruelhearted native attacked him with dogs. The donkey, flying from his pursuers, jumped across the river that flows by the townland, leaving the impress of his hoofs on a ledge of rock which is still pointed out. When St. It a saw the donkey on his arrival, all torn and bleeding, in her anger she cursed the place where the outrage was committed.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 50

9. Second Danish plundering of Killeedy, 857

   Killeedy · parish · Limerick · 857

   In 857 another Danish fleet landed in North Kerry and plundered Killeedy for the second time. Their depredations extended as far as the Shannon and eastward to Cashel, after which a forty-year cessation of invions followed.

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   857. Another fleet landed a host of Danes in North Kerry, who plundered Kill Ita for the second time, and extended their depredations as far as the Shannon, and eastward as far as Cashel. Then came a cessation of invasions for a period of forty years, but the foreigners were not idle all this time, as history informs us that they were seeking fresh fields along the coast of southern Europe.

   916. They again returned to our shores, and divided themselves into three parties and ravaged all the south of Ireland. It was by them fell Gebennach, King of Ui Conaill ; after killing him they took away his head.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 60

10. St. Molua's monastery at Kyle near Borris-in-Ossory

    Kyle · townland · Laois

    St. Molua founded a monastery at Kyle on Mount Bladhma (Slieve Bloom) near his maternal relations, after being advised not to remain in his own territory. The ruins command a beautiful prospect over the valleys of the Nore and Suir.

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    Accordingly, he returned to his native territory with the intention of founding a monastery, but Feolan, the dynast of the place, advised him not to remain in his own country. Acting on this suggestion, he went to Mount Bladhma (Slieve Bloom) where] his maternal relations resided. Here he founded a monastery which is now called Kyle, the ruins of which are not far from Borris-in-Ossory, in the parish of Offerlin, Queen’s County. The situation, like all the old monastic sites, commands a beautiful prospect over the rich valleys of the Nore and Suir.

    After putting this foundation on a permanent basis, Molua returned with many disciples to Hy Fidhgente, where he founded many monasteries, and where his name still lives as Patron of two holy wells — one at Ardagh, near Newcastle West, the other at Emlygrenan, in the east of the county.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 52

11. St. Patrick's Well (Pennywell) near Limerick city

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1904

    St. Patrick's Well, also known as Pennywell, is situated near Limerick city and was much frequented by citizens, with remarkable cures reported in recent years. A beautiful grotto was erected over the well in 1904 through the efforts of Rev. Cornelius Conway, P.P., and Rev. David O'Carroll.

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    St. Patrick’s, or Pennywell, is situated near the city, and much frequented by the citizens. Some remarkable cures have taken place at this well in recent years. Its water is brought to invalids who rarely drink any other beverage during their illness, such is their simple faith in the intercession of its Patron, St. Patrick. A. beautiful grotto was erected over this well in the year 1904, by the exertions of the Rev. Cornelius Conway, P.P., St. Patrick’s, his curate, Rev. David O’Carroll, and some pious laymen.

    Lickadoon, a holy well.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 57

12. Glengort name evolution from Gortawrehanyth

    Glengort · electoral division · Limerick

    The townland originally called Gortawrehanyth, with a wood named Glangortwrohanna, gradually lost the 'rohanna' element and became known as Glengort in the Tournafulla district.

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    Gortawrehanyth (in Peyton it is written Gorteawrohanna. The wood in it is called Glangortwrohanna, and as such it is written in the Courtney grant of 1639. course of time the rohanna was dropped and Glengort became the name by which that townland is now known in the Tournafulla district) .. .. 6 8

    Kannecully ? . . . . . . . . 20 o

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 258

13. O'Donovan's observation of Killeedy nave

    Killeedy · parish · Limerick

    The ancient nave at Killeedy is built in the primitive Irish style with thick walls. O'Donovan recorded that locals remembered the west gable standing and described its doorway as being constructed of concentric arches.

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    The choir was modernized and fitted up as a Protestant church and used as such, until about the beginning of the last century, when it was burned down by the Whiteboys. The nave is in the primitive Irish style, and in all probability a part of the ancient church of St. Ita. The west gable is levelled with the ground. O’Donovan states that when he visited the place he met some people who saw part of it standing, and who described the doorway as having been constructed of concentric arches. The side walls of the nave are 3 feet thick, and built of large stones well cemented with mortar.

    The choir arch is in a good state of preservation, but contains no feature of the ancient work. The grave of St. Ita is pointed out at the Epistle side of the churck where the nave and choir-arch walls meet. In summer

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 49

14. Perpetual vicarage of Glenogra in Limerick diocese

    Glenogra · townland · Limerick · 1428

    In 1428 a bull for Tatheo Otigeraid for the perpetual vicarage of the church of Glenogra, valued at 5 marcs, was restored without obligation. The record confirms the existence of a medieval church at Glenogra.

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    1428. A Bull for the Tatheo Otigeraid for the per-

    Digitized by CjOOQie

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick

15. Monasteranenagh Abbey and the fair green of Clochair

    Monasteranenagh · parish · Limerick · 1200

    Some antiquarians supposed Monasteranenagh Abbey was built on the old fair green of Clochair. A grant of land made to the monastery in 1200 refers to the place name Kenelmegan, and a townland called Clughur (now Clogher) in the parish of Dromin, not far from Lough Gur, is identified as the actual site of the celebrated fair.

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    people, and would not think of building their monastery on a spot so dear to the inhabitants, where from time immemorial they were accustomed to meet in goodfellowship. The grant of land made to the monastery1 in the year 1200 favours this opinion, as it is distinctly stated that Kenelmegan was the name of the place where the abbey was situated. In the list of townlands in the same grant, there is one called Clughur, now Cloghei; in the parish of Dromin, and not very far distant from Lough Gur and the monastery — evidently the place where this fair was held. Monasteranenagh, may have got its name from having this celebrated fair as part of its possessions.

    In an ancient tract, called the History of the Cemeteries of Ireland , it is stated that the men of Munster were in olden times interred at jEnach Chuli. There is a townland of that name mentioned in the grant above referred to, as Enach Chuli in Corballi. In an old document Corballi is given as lying near Knockainey, but both names have now disappeared from the topography of the locality.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 21

16. St. Mary's Well at Rathcahill, August pilgrimage

    Rathcahill · townland · Offaly

    St. Mary's Well at Rathcahill, County Limerick, is located on the roadside surrounded by a high wall. The feast of its patronage is still kept on August 15, when people from the countryside visit the well after last Mass at the parochial church.

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    St. Mary’s Well at Rathcahill, the feast of whose patronage is still kept on the 15th of August, when all the country-side visit the well after last Mass at the parochial church. The well is on the roadside surrounded by a high wall.

    St. Brigid’s, Shangarry.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 58

17. St. Molua's holy wells at Ardagh and Emlygrenan

    Ardagh · town · Limerick

    St. Molua's name lives on as patron of two holy wells in Hy Fidhgente territory. One is at Ardagh near Newcastle West and the other at Emlygrenan in the east of the county.

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    After putting this foundation on a permanent basis, Molua returned with many disciples to Hy Fidhgente, where he founded many monasteries, and where his name still lives as Patron of two holy wells — one at Ardagh, near Newcastle West, the other at Emlygrenan, in the east of the county.

    Many instances are given of his dealings with those placed under him, which show that his rule and manner, though severe, were tempered with gentleness and mercy.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 52

18. Clogher in Dromin parish identified as fair site

    Clogher · townland · Limerick · 1200

    In the list of townlands in the 1200 grant, a place called Clughur, now Clogher in the parish of Dromin, lies not far from Lough Gur and the monastery, and is identified as the place where the celebrated Aenach Clochair fair was held.

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    people, and would not think of building their monastery on a spot so dear to the inhabitants, where from time immemorial they were accustomed to meet in goodfellowship. The grant of land made to the monastery1 in the year 1200 favours this opinion, as it is distinctly stated that Kenelmegan was the name of the place where the abbey was situated. In the list of townlands in the same grant, there is one called Clughur, now Cloghei; in the parish of Dromin, and not very far distant from Lough Gur and the monastery — evidently the place where this fair was held. Monasteranenagh, may have got its name from having this celebrated fair as part of its possessions.

    In an ancient tract, called the History of the Cemeteries of Ireland , it is stated that the men of Munster were in olden times interred at jEnach Chuli. There is a townland of that name mentioned in the grant above referred to, as Enach Chuli in Corballi. In an old document Corballi is given as lying near Knockainey, but both names have now disappeared from the topography of the locality.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 21

19. Kill Bruaine church and Bruaine's Well at Athlacca

    Athlacca · parish · Limerick

    In the south-west of Tullerboy in the parish of Athlacca, County Limerick, there is a little church called Kill Bruaine and a holy well called Bruaine's Well. The site preserves the memory of a saint otherwise largely unknown.

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    Athlacca. In the south-west of Tullerboy there is a little church called Kill Bruaine, and a well called Bruaine’s Well.

    Rathkeale, at Ballyallinan Castle, a holy well dedicated to St. Bernard.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 58

20. Saint Aitche, patron of Cill Aitche in Kenry

    Killeedy · parish · Limerick

    Aitche was venerated as patron of Cill Aitche in the barony of Kenry, County Limerick, where a holiday and station were held on January 15. The site is one of several saintly dedications in the diocese of Limerick recorded in the Martyrology of Donegal.

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    January 15. — Aitche, Patron of Cill Aitche, in the diocese and county of Limerick, barony of Kenry. A holiday and station there.1

    Ju!y 20. — Cuirbin the^Pious, in Ui Fidhgente, in Munster.2

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 54

21. Statue of St. Ita in St. Michael's Church, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    St. Ita has been especially venerated in Limerick city in recent years, and a beautiful statue has been erected in St. Michael's Church to perpetuate her memory. A special Office and Mass in her honour was granted by the Holy See at Bishop Butler's petition.

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    She has been specially venerated in the city of late years, and a beautiful statue has been erected in St. Michael’s Church to perpetuate her memory.

    As a child of the plain, may I say with St. Brendan : —

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 51

22. St. Bernard's holy well at Ballyallinan Castle, Rathkeale

    Rathkeale · town · Limerick

    A holy well dedicated to St. Bernard is located at Ballyallinan Castle near Rathkeale, County Limerick. The well is one of many in the diocese that perpetuate the memory of saints venerated in the area.

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    Rathkeale, at Ballyallinan Castle, a holy well dedicated to St. Bernard.

    Nantenan, St. James’s Well, in Ardgoul.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 58

23. Benefices of Kilscoly, Kilgoban and Kilscalbeg in Adare parish granted

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1223–1250

    Bishop Hubert granted the ecclesiastical benefices of the lands of Kilscoly, Kilgoban, and Kilscalbeg, all in the parish of Adare, to the common fund of the cathedral. Master Tyrell, Vicar of Adare, was one of the witnesses to this grant.

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    Influenced by the petition and presentation of Richard of London, lord of the soil or fee, he granted to the common fund of the canons and vicars of St. Mary’s all the ecclesiastical benefices of Glyncorby3 (parish of Glin), also the ecclesiastical benefices of the whole land of Kilscoly, Kilgoban, and Kilscalbeg, which were in the parish of Adare. One of the witnesses to this grant was Master Tyrell, Vicar of Adare. He granted to Thomas de Wodeford, Dean of St. Mary’s.

    1 p. 59 ; Kilethem in B.B.L.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 108

24. Bishop Gerald recovers lands at Lisredy near Loughill

    Loughill · townland · Kilkenny · 1297

    In 1297, Bishop Gerald recovered from Robert Meigah one messuage, one plowland, and 400 acres of wood in the lands of Lisredy near Loughill, which had been given to Meigah by the late Bishop Robert without the consent of the chapter.

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    In a.d. 1297 Gerald recovered from Robert Meigah (May), one messuage, one plowland, and 400 acres of wood, in the lands of Lisredy (near Loughill), which had been given to him by Robert, late bishop, without the consent of the chapter.1

    He died in the year 1301, after ruling the see for twenty years. Myles, Bishop of Limerick, grandson of the earl whose death is recorded by the Annals of the Four Masters at the year 1302, must be the same as Gerald le Marescall.2 The person called the earl by the Irish annalists was evidently Earl William Marshall.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 120

25. Caherass lands and Maigue fishery agreement

    Caherass · townland · Limerick · 1251–1272

    An agreement exists between Bishop Robert and Reginald St. James concerning certain lands in Caherasse, together with a fishery in the Maigue. This links the diocese's temporal administration to specific landed and riparian resources.

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    There is also an agreement extant between the bishop and Reginald St. James, concerning certain lands in Caherasse, together with a fishery in the Maigue.1

    1267. The monastery of Molanfide, or Darnis Island, in the Blackwater, near Youghal, and in the diocese of Lismore, had possession of Dermoho (now Darragh), and granted to Robert and his successors free power of conferring half of all the fruits and oblations of this church on the vicar, reserving, however, the other half for the use and benefit of the monastery.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 116

26. Chapter declaration of rights at St. Nicholas Church

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1273

    After the death of Bishop Robert in 1273, the cathedral chapter met at St. Nicholas Church in Limerick and drew up a declaration of the rights and liberties of the chapter before proceeding to elect a new bishop. The declaration covered visitation rights, deanery elections, prebend appointments, and land alienation.

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    After the death of Robert, the chapter of the diocese consisting of Thomas, dean ; Thomas,2 precentor ; Guydo, chancellor ; Richard Brice, treasurer ; Gerald, arch* deacon ; David Cornubiens, Henry Russel, Richard of Limerick, Nicholas De Wodeford, and John Fitzhugh, met at St. Nicholas Church, where they drew up a declaration of the rights and liberties of the chapter, before proceeding to elect a bishop. They were as follows : —

    (1.) When the bishop visited the diocese in person, or his officers, they should not receive any procurations, or extort anything by exactions in the places they visited, as they had houses of their own in every part of the diocese to which they could conveniently resort.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick

27. Court sittings at the great church of Kilmallock

    Kilmallock · townland · Limerick · 1251–1272

    Ecclesiastical judges held multiple sittings at the great church of Kilmallock as part of proceedings between the Bishop of Limerick and the Prior of Athassel over disputed churches. The judges ultimately ordered churches including Croagh, Donaghmore, and Rathurd returned to the diocese.

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    They cited both parties to meet at the church of Ballycahane, where the matters in dispute would be investigated. After many sittings at the church of Ballycahane and the great church of Kilmallock, the ecclesiastical judges decided that the churches of Mayncro, Donaghmore, the benefices of Crewomayl, the churches of Carnarthy and Rathsyward should be given up to the Bishop of Limerick, and the monastery was allowed to retain for its use and benefit the churches of Kilbrathran, Kilmuchorog, and Kilcoleman. Then Robert granted Thomas dp Wodeford, the dean, to augment his living, the churches of Cornarthy and Rathsyward.

    He was equally zealous in looking after the lands of the diocese, as there are many documents in the Black

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 115

28. Ecclesiastical court at Ballycahane church

    Ballycahane · townland · Limerick · 1251–1272

    Papal delegates cited both the Bishop of Limerick and the Prior of Athassel to meet at the church of Ballycahane to resolve a dispute over churches that had passed out of the diocese. After many sittings at Ballycahane and at the great church of Kilmallock, the judges ordered several churches restored to the Bishop of Limerick while the monastery retained others.

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    They cited both parties to meet at the church of Ballycahane, where the matters in dispute would be investigated. After many sittings at the church of Ballycahane and the great church of Kilmallock, the ecclesiastical judges decided that the churches of Mayncro, Donaghmore, the benefices of Crewomayl, the churches of Carnarthy and Rathsyward should be given up to the Bishop of Limerick, and the monastery was allowed to retain for its use and benefit the churches of Kilbrathran, Kilmuchorog, and Kilcoleman. Then Robert granted Thomas dp Wodeford, the dean, to augment his living, the churches of Cornarthy and Rathsyward.

    He was equally zealous in looking after the lands of the diocese, as there are many documents in the Black

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 115

29. Geoffrey's damages to the Church of Limerick

    Kilmallock · townland · Limerick · 1226–1235

    A papal inquiry by Griffin, Bishop of Lismore, found that Geoffrey had injured 3,300 head of cattle, unjustly held the ville of Kilmallock for over twenty years, and damaged tenants of Mungret, Donaghmore and other lands. He also violated the sanctuary of the church of Singland by forcibly ejecting those who had taken refuge there.

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    The enquiry having been made, it was found by Griffin, on the authority of reliable witnesses, that Geoffrey in the first place injured as much as 3,300 head of cattle ; in the second place, Geoffrey, in the name of the church of Limerick had received 100 marks by quit claiming the ville of Kilmallock ; the annual income of said ville was 32 lbs. of silver and half a mark, and that for twenty years and more he detained said ville. He injured the tenants of Mungret, Donaghmore and other lands to the value of 100 lbs. of silver. The imprisonment and other injuries which he inflicted on clergy and laity, and for which he contemptuously refused to compensate, was estimated at 800 marks. He, moreover, violated the sanctuary of the church of Singland, by ejecting with force those that had taken refuge in it. The damage from this act was valued at 100 lbs. of silver.

    Griffin having found according to his instructions, that the sentence of excommunication formulated by Hubert was just, confirmed it. He also wrote to the king, beseeching him to avoid Geoffrey, as excommunicated. At the same time Hubert 2 wrote to the king praying that he would mercifully regard the oppressions and injuries brought upon the Church of Limerick by Geoffrey and his accomplices, for which he had to visit them with the severest punishments of the Church.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 112

30. Geoffrey's damage to tenants of Mungret and Donaghmore

    Mungret · town · Limerick · 1226–1235

    Geoffrey inflicted injuries on the tenants of Mungret, Donaghmore and other lands to the value of 100 lbs. of silver. He also imprisoned and inflicted other injuries on clergy and laity, estimated at 800 marks, for which he contemptuously refused compensation.

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    The enquiry having been made, it was found by Griffin, on the authority of reliable witnesses, that Geoffrey in the first place injured as much as 3,300 head of cattle ; in the second place, Geoffrey, in the name of the church of Limerick had received 100 marks by quit claiming the ville of Kilmallock ; the annual income of said ville was 32 lbs. of silver and half a mark, and that for twenty years and more he detained said ville. He injured the tenants of Mungret, Donaghmore and other lands to the value of 100 lbs. of silver. The imprisonment and other injuries which he inflicted on clergy and laity, and for which he contemptuously refused to compensate, was estimated at 800 marks. He, moreover, violated the sanctuary of the church of Singland, by ejecting with force those that had taken refuge in it. The damage from this act was valued at 100 lbs. of silver.

    Griffin having found according to his instructions, that the sentence of excommunication formulated by Hubert was just, confirmed it. He also wrote to the king, beseeching him to avoid Geoffrey, as excommunicated. At the same time Hubert 2 wrote to the king praying that he would mercifully regard the oppressions and injuries brought upon the Church of Limerick by Geoffrey and his accomplices, for which he had to visit them with the severest punishments of the Church.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 112

31. Geoffrey's homage and rents for Kilmallock lands

    Kilmallock · townland · Limerick · 1215–1221

    Geoffrey paid homage to Bishop Hubert for the lands of Kilmallock, Drehidtarsna, Kilcurly, Killonehan, Kylcoban, Kilkelbeg, and Kilcremail, agreeing to pay an annual rent of 33s. 4d., with 20s. for Kilmallock and 13s. for the other lands, plus three pounds of wax to St. Mary's Cathedral on the Feast of the Assumption.

    Read the passage

    1215. The viceroyalty was first committed to him in the absence of the Archbishop, which he held until 1221 a.d. when he was superseded, as he was unable to furnish a satisfactory account of the revenue of the country, and also as he failed to carry out other agreements entered into between him and the king. After Hubert became bishop, Geoffrey 1 paid homage to him for the lands of Kilmallock, Drethenetarse (Drehidtarsna), Kilcurly, Killonehan, Kylcoban, Kilkelbeg, and Kilcremail, with their appurtenances, and promised to pay as yearly reqt 33s. 4 d. ; paying 20s. for Kilmallock, and 13s. for the other lands together with three pounds of wax to St. Mary’s Cathedral, on the feast of the Assumption.

    1226, Geoffrey 2 also had the manors of Adare and Knockainey, as he procured a patent for holding a yearly fair at his manor of Adare for eight days, from July 25th to August 1st, and at Knockainey, from 8th to the 15th of September.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 111

32. Geoffrey's manors of Adare and Knockainey

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1226

    Geoffrey secured a patent for holding a yearly fair at his manor of Adare from July 25th to August 1st, and at Knockainey from September 8th to the 15th. A dispute arose between him and Bishop Hubert, leading to Geoffrey inflicting grievous injury on diocesan property and episcopal tenants.

    Read the passage

    1226, Geoffrey 2 also had the manors of Adare and Knockainey, as he procured a patent for holding a yearly fair at his manor of Adare for eight days, from July 25th to August 1st, and at Knockainey, from 8th to the 15th of September.

    A dispute arose between him and the bishop, the exact nature of which is not disclosed, but Geoffrey inflicted grevious injury on the property of the diocese and tenants of the bishop. For this he and his son William, with their accomplices, were excommunicated by Hubert, who applied to Rome to have the sentence confirmed. About the same time reports reached the Holy See that Hubert obtained the diocese of Limerick by unjust means, that he was a minus habens, and so wanting in knowledge that he was unable to discharge the duties of his office.3 Taking into account the foregoing quarrel the report would seem to be sent by

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 111

33. Geoffrey's violation of Singland sanctuary

    Singland · townland · Limerick · 1226–1235

    Geoffrey violated the sanctuary of the church of Singland by forcibly ejecting those who had taken refuge in it. The damage from this act was valued at 100 lbs. of silver, as confirmed by the papal inquiry of Griffin, Bishop of Lismore.

    Read the passage

    The enquiry having been made, it was found by Griffin, on the authority of reliable witnesses, that Geoffrey in the first place injured as much as 3,300 head of cattle ; in the second place, Geoffrey, in the name of the church of Limerick had received 100 marks by quit claiming the ville of Kilmallock ; the annual income of said ville was 32 lbs. of silver and half a mark, and that for twenty years and more he detained said ville. He injured the tenants of Mungret, Donaghmore and other lands to the value of 100 lbs. of silver. The imprisonment and other injuries which he inflicted on clergy and laity, and for which he contemptuously refused to compensate, was estimated at 800 marks. He, moreover, violated the sanctuary of the church of Singland, by ejecting with force those that had taken refuge in it. The damage from this act was valued at 100 lbs. of silver.

    Griffin having found according to his instructions, that the sentence of excommunication formulated by Hubert was just, confirmed it. He also wrote to the king, beseeching him to avoid Geoffrey, as excommunicated. At the same time Hubert 2 wrote to the king praying that he would mercifully regard the oppressions and injuries brought upon the Church of Limerick by Geoffrey and his accomplices, for which he had to visit them with the severest punishments of the Church.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 112

34. Hubert bestows Askeaton church on Keynsham convent

    Askeaton · townland · Limerick

    Hubert, maintaining friendly relations with the convent of Keynsham, bestowed the church of Askeaton upon it with the consent of the chapter, while reserving one-third of the vicarage for the maintenance of a resident vicar.

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    Hubert seems to have maintained friendly relations with Keynsham, as he bestowed upon it, with the consent of the chapter, the church of Askeaton,2 reserving one-third of the vicarage for the maintenance of a resident vicar. Having large land possessions in the diocese, Hubert was of necessity mixed up with secular affairs. In maintaining the rights of the Church he was brought into conflict at least with one remarkable nobleman of the time, named Geoffrey De Marisco.3 Geoffrey was nephew and heir of Montmorris, one of the first batch of invaders, and owned extensive territories in England, Leinster, and Munster.

    1208. He led an army of the Irish and colonists against the Viceroy, for which he was pardoned, and his brother Richard, Bishop of Durham, and Chancellor

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 110

35. Hubert's burial in the Dominican Convent

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1250

    Bishop Hubert, who had a long and eventful reign over the diocese of Limerick, died in 1250 and was interred in the Dominican Convent in Limerick.

    Read the passage

    Hubert had a long and eventful reign over the diocese and ably defended the rights of his church in very trying times. From references made to him while bishop, he seemed to be appreciated by his successors in office. He was many times reported to Rome and commissions appointed to investigate the charges. How far they were true we have now no means of judging, as there is no record surviving. He died in the year 1250, and was interred in the Dominican Convent.

    1 See S.C.D.I., year 1225.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 114

36. Hubert's weekly market at Mungret manor

    Mungret · town · Limerick · 1225

    Bishop Hubert received royal permission to hold a weekly market every Tuesday at his manor of Mungret, along with letters of protection from the king for two years.

    Read the passage

    1225. Hubert got permission from the king to have a weekly market every Tuesday, at his manor of Mungret, and also received letters of protection at this time from the king for two years.

    There is also a record extant that shows that he gave, with consent of the chapter, to John of Cornwall,2 all the lands of Cloncourtha (Coleman’s Well), Gortnetrossi, Kilcurnan, and Garron M‘Rogeri to hold on the same terms as the preceding tenant. He received from Henry de Mynet the lands of Balinmaked,3 Balindonelan, and other lands adjoining the manor of Drumdel (Toomdeely).

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 114

37. Land agreement concerning Mungret, 1257

    Mungret · town · Limerick · 1257

    In 1257 a final agreement was reached before the itinerant judges in the king's court at Limerick between Bishop Robert and John de Inteberge concerning twenty acres of land in Mungret.

    Read the passage

    1257. A final agreement before the itinerant judges in the king’s court, Limerick, between Robert and John de Inteberge, concerning twenty acres of land in Mungret.

    An agreement between Henry Mayting and Robert, concerning the presentation of Nantenan, before the itinerant judges in the king’s court, Limerick.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 116

38. Land dispute at Knocknabooly identified

    Knocknabooly · townland · Cork · 1251–1272

    A final agreement at the king's court at Waterford concerned the land of Clonbalitarsne, which the author identifies with various aliases including Knocknabualy, now known as Knocknabooly, a townland in the parish of Loughill. The dispute was between Ceth le Greys and his wife.

    Read the passage

    A final agreement,1 at the court of the king at Waterford, before the judges itinerant, between Ceth le Greys and his wife, concerning the land of Clonbalitarsne> which is evidently the same as Knockbalytornse, alias Knocknabualy, now known as Knocknabooly, a townland in the parish of Loughill.

    A final agreement made at the court ot the king, before the itinerant judges, between Robert and Andrew Fitzwalter, concerning thirty acres of land at Clonagh.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 116

39. Limerick Castle erected in King John's reign

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1199–1216

    Limerick was represented from its first appearance in history as a strongly fortified town. During King John's reign a strong castle was erected and constables were regularly appointed to guard it.

    Read the passage

    It has been represented from its first appearance in history as a strongly fortified town, and in King John’s reign a strong castle was erected and constables regularly appointed to guard it.

    During the vice-royalty of John de Gray (1210-1213)^ Bishop of Norwich, the citizens received a grant of forty carucatei of land lying round the city. The exact position of t^hese lands can now be accurately determined from an inquisition 2 which was held into the property of the corporation in the year 1615. From it we learn that sixteen carucates were situated at the Clare side of the Shannon, and the names of the townlands are much the same as at present. The following were the sixteen carucates at the Clare side, viz. : —

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 121

40. Limerick receives municipal charter from King John

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1197

    After the Normans took the city in 1194, citizens were governed by provosts. In 1197, King John granted a charter conferring the same rights and privileges as the citizens of Dublin and Bristol, empowering them to form a corporation and elect a mayor and bailiffs.

    Read the passage

    When the Normans (1194) became masters of the city they introduced the English form of government. For the first few years the citizens were governed by provosts, but after receiving a charter from King John in the year 1197, conferring on them the same rights and privileges as the citizens of Dublin and Bristol ; they were empowered to form a corporation, and elect a mayor and bailiffs — a form of government that has prevailed to our own time.

    It has been represented from its first appearance in history as a strongly fortified town, and in King John’s reign a strong castle was erected and constables regularly appointed to guard it.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 121

41. Monastery of Molanfide grants Darragh church rights, 1267

    Darragh · parish · Limerick · 1267

    In 1267 the monastery of Molanfide, or Darnis Island, in the Blackwater near Youghal, which held possession of Dermoho (now Darragh), granted Bishop Robert and his successors the power to confer half of the fruits and oblations of this church on the vicar, reserving the other half for the monastery.

    Read the passage

    1267. The monastery of Molanfide, or Darnis Island, in the Blackwater, near Youghal, and in the diocese of Lismore, had possession of Dermoho (now Darragh), and granted to Robert and his successors free power of conferring half of all the fruits and oblations of this church on the vicar, reserving, however, the other half for the use and benefit of the monastery.

    From these records it would appear that Robert was a careful and successful administrator of the temporalities of the see. He died in October, 1272.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 116

42. Patronage of Kiltanna church conferred on St. Mary's

    Knockaderry · townland · Limerick · 1272–1301

    Richard Flander conferred the jus patronatus of the tenement of Magrany, identified as Kiltanna near Knockaderry, on the church of St. Mary. Adae Flander simultaneously quit-claimed his rights in the tenement of Clonylte to Bishop Gerald.

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    Adae Flander 5 quit claimed to Gerald whatever rights he possessed in the tenement of Clonylte, and Richard Flander conferred on the church of St. Mary the jus patronatus of the tenement of Magrany (Kiltanna, near Knockaderry).

    John Fitzgerald 6 quit claimed to the bishop, one and a-half carucates of land in the tenement of Tullachbracy.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 119