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. Black Abbey of Adare: ruins and conversion to Protestant church

   Adare · townland · Limerick · 1807

   The Augustinian house known as the Black Abbey lies near the bridge of Adare on the south bank of the Maigue. A considerable portion of its medieval buildings survived, including nave, choir, bell tower, side chapel, convent gateway and pigeonry, and in 1807 the buildings were fitted up as a Protestant church for the parish of Adare.

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   This house was also known as the Black Abbey, and . lies near the bridge of Adare, on the south bank of the Maigue. A considerable portion of the old buildings still remains, such as the nave and choir of the church, an inserted bell tower, side chapel, convent gateway and out-buildings, with a pigeonry, a detailed description of which will be found in the Memorials of Adare. In 1807 the buildings were fitted up as a Protestant church for the parish of Adare.

   The Augustinian House , Rathkeale.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 286

2. Agreement at Kilmallock regarding church advowsons, 1240

   Kilmallock · townland · Limerick · 1240

   In 1240 an agreement was made between Gerard de Prendergast and Hubert, Bishop of Limerick, at Kilmallock regarding the advowson of the churches of Kilbegly, Kilquane, and Effin. This revealed that the manor of Tobbernea was at least co-extensive with the present parish of Effin and that the old tuath of Desibeg extended to the confines of County Cork.

   Read the passage

   •who was afterwards married to De Cogan. His second wife was daughter of Richard de Burgh, with whom he had received as dower the manor of Tobbernea- He was in possession of this dower before the year 1240, as it is stated in the Black Book that an agreement was entered between Gerard and Hubert, Bishop of Limerick, at Kilmallock in 1240, regarding the advowson of the churches of Kilbegly, Kilconegan (Kilquane), and Effin, which incidently discloses that the manor was at least co-extensive with the present parish of Effin> and that the old tuath of Desibeg extended to the confines of the County Cork.

   Gerard died in the year 1251, and his heirs being minors, an inquisition was held into his property, the bulk of which lay in Cork county and is outside the scope of this enquiry.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 143

3. Benefactors of Adare Franciscan Convent buildings

   Adare · townland · Limerick · 1464–1500

   Multiple pious laymen contributed to building parts of the Franciscan Convent of Adare. Cornelius O'Sullivan erected the bell tower, Margaret Fitzgibbon the great chapel, Donough O'Brien of Ara and his wife the dormitory, and Edmond Thomas, Knight of Glin, with Hanora Gibbon, erected the infirmary.

   Read the passage

   This convent 1 was founded in the year 1464 by Thomas Earl of Kildare, and his wife Johanna, daughter of James Earl of Desmond, who built the church and fourth part of the cloister at their own expense. They also furnished the windows of the church with glass and presented the bell and two silver chalices. The friars took possession of the convent on the feast of All Saints the same year. The church was dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel, and consecrated on his feast in the year 1466. The other parts of the building were built by pious laymen. The bell tower was erected by Cornelius O’Sullivan, a pious and devout stranger who settled among them ; he also presented the friars with a beautiful chalice gilt with gold. Margaret Fitzgibbon, wife of Cunlaid O’Dea, erected the great chapel ; a small one by John son of the Earl of Desmond and another of the same dimensions by Leogh de Tulcostyn and Margaret wife of Thomas Fitzmaurice. The other parts of the buildings were completed by the generosity and zeal of pious donors, viz., Donough O’Brien of Ara and his wife built the dormitory ; Rory O’Dea a fourth part of the cloister and presented a useful silver chalice ; Marianus O’Hickey erected the refectory and wooden panellings at the north side, of the choir, and later on entered the Order and died in this convent ; Edmond Thomas, Knight of Glin and his Hanora Gibbon, erected the infirmary. Johanna O’Loughlin,

   •

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 279

4. Bishop Edmund's annuity from Limerick mill and fishery

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1215

   In 1215, Bishop Edmund received a grant of a ten-pound silver annuity from the Exchequer in Dublin, drawn from the rent and assize of the city of Limerick, for the site of the mill and the fishery of Limerick which he had challenged against the king.

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   When exactly this Bishop was appointed is not recorded, but he is mentioned in 1215 a.d. as receiving a grant of an annuity of ten pounds of silver, receivable at the Exchequer, Dublin, out of the rent and assize of the city of Limerick, for the site of the mill and the fishery of Limerick, which he challenged against the king. *

   The bishop also quit claims to the king the land of

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 106

5. Bishop John Whelan repairs Limerick Cathedral, c.1490

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1489–1521

   John Whelan or Folan, canon of Ferns, was promoted to the See of Limerick on 13 May 1489. He was in Limerick about 1490 and, with the aid of the citizens, repaired and beautified the cathedral. He died on 13 January 1521.

   Read the passage

   John Whelan or Folan, canon of Ferns, rector of Clonmore, and procurator for Octavian de Palato, Archbishop of Armagh, at the court of Rome was promoted to the See of Limerick on the 13th of May, 1489. He was in Limerick about the year 1490, and with the aid of the citizens he repaired and beautified the cathedral. He died on the 13th January, 1521. The following appointments to benefices took place during his reign as bishop

   1492. William O’Muloeni ? cleric of the diocese of Limerick, principal, bound himself to the Apostolic Chamber for the first fruits of the perpetual vicarages of the parochial churches of Garth (Ballingarry) and Kyllscanyll (Kilscannell), vacant for such a length of time as their collation lapsed to the Holy See, value 24 marcs.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 245

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, the city holds a story from around 1490. John Whelan, also called Folan, was a canon of Ferns and rector of Clonmore. He had served as procurator for Octavian de Palato, Archbishop of Armagh, at the court of Rome. On the 13th of May 1489 he was promoted to the See of Limerick. He was in Limerick about the year 1490, and with the aid of the citizens he repaired and beautified the cathedral. He died on the 13th of January 1521. During his reign as bishop, in 1492, William O'Muloeni, a cleric of the diocese of Limerick, bound himself to the Apostolic Chamber for the first fruits of the perpetual vicarages of the parochial churches of Garth, now Ballingarry, and Kyllscanyll, now Kilscannell. Their value was 24 marks.

6. Bishop Patrick's profession of obedience to Canterbury

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1145–1152

   Bishop Patrick, successor to Gillebert, went to Canterbury for consecration and made a profession of obedience to Archbishop Theobald. This document, still extant in a Cotton Library MS, reveals the confusion of the times following Gillebert's death in 1145.

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   I, Patrick, elected to the government of the Church oi Limerick, and now by the grace of God about to be consecrated bishop, by you, Father Theobald, Archbishop of Canterbury and Primate, of Britain, do promise in all things to pay my bounden subjection and canonical obedience to you, and all your successors canonically succeeding you.

   The bishop lived only for a short time, and the year of his death is not known. Iniscathy again recovered some of its ancient prestige, as it was recognized as a see at the Synod of Kells, which was held in 1152, not many years after Gillebert’s death.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 72

   As the companion tells it

   Limerick was the seat of a bishop named Patrick, who succeeded Gillebert after his death in 1145. Patrick travelled to Canterbury for his consecration and there made a written profession of obedience to Archbishop Theobald. The document still survives in a Cotton Library manuscript. In it Patrick pledges, in his own words, to pay his bounden subjection and canonical obedience to Theobald and all his successors. He did not live long as bishop, and the year of his death is not known. After him, Iniscathy regained some of its old standing when it was recognized as a see at the Synod of Kells in 1152.

7. Cathedral nave repairs and chapel additions under Bishop Folan

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1489–1521

   During the episcopate of Bishop John Folan (1489–1521), the citizens of Limerick repaired the nave of the cathedral and added several chapels, including a large chapel parallel to the transept, a smaller chapel beside it, and two side chapels on the south side. In 1501 and 1505, mayors collected funds and levied taxes for cathedral repairs.

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   During the episcopate of John Folan (1489-1521), the nave of the church was repaired by the citizens. Several additions were also made ; the large chapel that runs parallel to the transept and the smaller chapel beside it ; on the south side two side chapels.

   At this time it was customary to apply the fines enforced by the Mayor to the repairs of the cathedral. In 1501 the Mayor made collections to put the church in proper repair, and again in 1505 William Harold, Mayor, levied several taxes for the same purpose. In the northern transept there is a triple arched recess containing the epitaph of Geoffrey Arthur, the reading of which puzzled some of our historians. The correct reading was first given by Mr. Maurice Lenihan,1 and is as follows : —

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 303

8. Chieftain welcomes Ita at Killeedy and offers land

   Killeedy · parish · Limerick

   When the chieftain of the territory heard that a great saint had come to live in the locality, he went with a multitude of subjects to welcome her and presented a large tract of land adjoining the monastery. Ita refused more than a few acres for a garden.

   Read the passage

   When the chieftain of the territory heard that such a great saint had come to live in the locality, he went with a multitude of his subjects to welcome the holy virgin. As a mark of esteem, he presented her with a large tract of land adjoining the monastery. Not wishing to be too much engrossed with worldly affairs, she refused to accept more than a few acres, which would serve as a garden to supply the wants of her community.

   A number of maidens from the surrounding district immediately placed themselves under her spiritual guidance, and became members of her convent.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 42

9. Church of Kildimo and St. Dima

   Kildimo · townland · Limerick

   Kildimo, the church of St. Dima, commemorates a saint whose feast is on 12th of May in the Martyrology of Donegal. Dima, son of Cas, was master of Declan and is patron of Kildimo in Kenry. The site of the old church is now occupied by a Protestant church.

   Read the passage

   Now Kildimo, the church of Dima, a saint who is commemorated in the Martyrology of Donegal on the 12th of May. Dima, son of Cas ; he is the patron of Kildimo in Kenry, of the county and diocese of Limerick, and has a holiday, a festival and a station. He was also the master of Declan, and he was in the Deisi of Munster. The site of the old church is now occupied by a Protestant church. 1

   Kellallathna (Kell all at an)*

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 100

10. Coleman's Well church near Bruree

    Bruree · town · Limerick · 601–604

    The church of Cluencomarda, now known as Coleman's Well, is located about two miles south of Bruree. The patron honoured there is variously identified as Coleman of Kilmacduagh or Coleman of Cloyne, a bishop descended from the royal family of Munster and author of the metrical Life of St. Senan.

    Read the passage

    — (Lawn of the sign or token). This church is now known as Coleman’s Well, and about two miles or so to the south of Bruree parish. The Coleman that is honoured here at present is Coleman of Kilmacduagh, whose feast is kept on the 29th of October. Dr. Young, H Bishop of the diocese, says in a note in White’s MS. that the patron is Coleman of Cloyne.

    Coleman was Bishop of Cloyne, and descended from the royal family of Munster. He was remarkable for his poetical talents, and is the author of the metrical Life of St. Senan. St. Ita foretold his conversion to St. Brendan of Clonfert, which took place about the middle of the sixth century, after assisting at the inauguration of the King of Cashel as a royal bard. He died in the year 601 or 604, on the 24th of November.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 88

11. College of Vicars-Choral at Bow Lane

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The College of Vicars-Choral stood opposite the north transept of St. Mary's Cathedral on the other side of Bow Lane. Its pointed doorway and perpendicular windows were in perfect preservation until removed the previous year; the site is now occupied by newly-built cottages. An underground passage was discovered leading from the college to the cathedral.

    Read the passage

    Round the cathedral stood the residences of the clergy who served the church. The Dean’s Close extended from the western door of the cathedral down to the site of the present County Court, his house stood near the site of the gaol in Crobsie’s Row. The college of Vicars-Choral was opposite the north transept on the other side of Bow lane, and its pointed doorway and perpendicular windows were in perfect preservation until they were removed Last year; and the site is now occupied by a row of newlybuilt cottages. An underground passage was discovered some years ago leading from it to the cathedral.

    The rest of the ecclesiastical property extended towards the castle, the whole forming the “ sanctuary,” and had certain rights and privileges, one of which was to afford protection to those accused until they should have a fair hearing from their judges in doubtful cases ; and to give the clergy an opportunity to intercede for delinquents, but not to shield public criminals from the

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 298

12. Convent of St. Catherine de O'Conill near Shanagolden

    Shanagolden · town · Limerick · 1261–1306

    A convent of nuns dedicated to St. Catherine was situated in a small valley near Old Abbey House, about two miles east of Shanagolden in the parish of Robertstown. The earliest reference is in the 1298 Inquisition relating to the Manor of Shanid, recording payments to the Bishop of Limerick for land granted to the nuns by John Fitzmaurice, slain at Callan in 1261. The convent's goods were valued at 40s. 4d. in the 1302 taxation, and by 1306 its revenue was insufficient for maintenance.

    Read the passage

    situated in a small valley near Old Abbey House, about two miles east of the village of Shanagolden in the parish of Robertstown.

    The first reference that can be found to this convent, is that in the Inquisition relating to the Manor of Shanid in 1298, where the following entry is given: “Wherefrom are subtracted 8s. paid yearly to the Bishop of Limerick for land which his grandfather granted to the nuns of O’Konyl, and 26s. 8 d. paid to the same Bishop to acquit land of demesne which Sir Thomas held of him there.”

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 294

13. Crannog dwelling in Lough Gur

    near Lough Gur · lake or lakes · Limerick

    A beautiful specimen of a crannog — a dwelling constructed on beams of timber forming an artificial island in a lake — is still to be seen in Lough Gur. Such dwellings were built in lakes and marshy places for greater security.

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    Residences were often erected for greater safety in the middle of lakes and marshy places. The house was constructed on beams of timber forming an artificial island, thereby ensuring great security to the occupants. There is a beautiful specimen of this kind of dwelling still to be seen in Lough Gur, and Coolcronogue, near Ardagh, suggests the site of another. Judging from the remains that have been found in some of those that have been explored in other parts of Ireland, they are of a very high antiquity, while some have been inhabited as late as the reign of Elizabeth.

    The King of Munster 1 had many royal residences in different parts of his dominions, where he was accustomed to spend a part of the year enjoying the hospitality of his subjects. The following are the principal ones that can now be identified in Hy Fidhgente.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 18

14. Crewamalla or Knocknagaul church ruins at Lemonfield

    Lemonfield · townland · Limerick

    The church of Crewamalla, belonging to the precentor, corresponds to the present parish of Knocknagaul and preserves the name of O'Maille, a chieftain of the Tuath Limnrigh. The old ruin, now situated at Lemonfield, consisted of a nave and choir, with only part of the north and south walls remaining.

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    (The church of Knocknagaul belongs to the precentor.) According to O’Heerin’s Topographical Poems , O’Maille and O’Cadhla were the chieftains of the Tuath Limnrigh, and the name of the former is preserved in Crewamalla, which was a district corresponding to the present parish of Knocknagaul. It is often mentioned in the Black Book during the thirteenth century. It does not occur in the list of 1302, as it belonged to the precentor, whose benefices are valued as a whole without naming any in particular. It occurs in the lists of 1306, in this present list, and the one of 1615, when it disappears and that of Knocknagual substituted in its place. It is written Crewally, and Ballyclough given as an alias for it in an inquisition held in the year 1615, and already referred to. But it is clear from the old documents of the thirteenth century in the Black Book , that it was applied to a large district, and the church was called by the same name, though in the course of time the particular place where it was built may have been known as Knocknagaul. Even that name has lost its identity as a townland, and Lemonfield substituted for it where the old ruin is situated. It consisted of a nave and choir; only a part of the north and south walls now remain.

    Ecclesia de Carnargy , Dec anus.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 194

15. Denis Ahern deprived of Ardcanny canonry for practicing medicine

    Ardcanny · parish · Limerick · 1400

    In 1400, Denis Eachaema (Ahern) was appointed to Ardcanny but was later deprived of the canonry for publicly practicing the art of medicine for money, to the opprobrium of his clerical state.

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    1400 a.d. Denis Eachaema (Ahern) was appointed to Ardcahny (Ardcanny), later on in the year Denis was to be deprived of this canonry for publicly practising the art of Medicine for money to the opprobrium of his clerical state. John Fox to Ballegadiff (Ballingaddy). Denis Eachaema to Kyllfyntynayn (Kilfintenan, popularly known as Cratloe).

    1401. Maurice O’Coggran to Derregalwan (Derrigalvan).

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 222

16. Gillebert writes to Anselm as Bishop of Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1106

    Gillebert, Bishop of Limerick, wrote to Anselm congratulating him on reforming Norman church practices, sending twenty-five small pearls as a token of attachment. The letter confirms Gillebert held the see of Limerick shortly after Henry I settled disputes with Anselm in 1106.

    Read the passage

    Anselm at Rouen. He renewed the acquaintance after becoming Bishop of Limerick, as he wrote congratulating Anselm 1 on having at last induced the untamable Normans to submit to the regular decrees of the Church with regard to the election and consecration of abbots and bishops. He thanks God for enabling Anselm to gain this victory, and as token of attachment sends a little present of twenty-five small pearls, and requests that he will not forget him in his prayers. Hence it may be inferred that this letter was written shortly after Henry I had, in 1106, settled his disputes with Anselm, and it may also be inferred that Gillebert was Bishop of Limerick at the time the letter was written, and perhaps a few years earlier.

    Anselm replied to the above letter thanking Gillebert for congratulations and present. He also reminds him of their mutual affection since they had known each other at Rouen. He says that since he now knows that Gillebert has been raised to the episcopal dignity in Ireland, that he will exert himself in correcting what* ever abuses exist in the Church, and endeavour to induce the king and bishops of the country to co-operate with him in the good work.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 68

    As the companion tells it

    Passing through Limerick, you are in a city that once had a bishop named Gillebert. He had known Anselm at Rouen, and after becoming bishop here, he wrote to Anselm congratulating him on having at last induced the untamable Normans to submit to the regular decrees of the Church with regard to the election and consecration of abbots and bishops. He thanked God for enabling Anselm to gain this victory. As a token of attachment he sent a little present of twenty-five small pearls, and asked that Anselm not forget him in his prayers. The letter was written shortly after Henry I had settled his disputes with Anselm in 1106, and Gillebert held the see by then, perhaps a few years earlier. Anselm replied, thanking Gillebert for the congratulations and the present. He reminded him of their mutual affection since they had known each other at Rouen. He said that since he now knew Gillebert had been raised to the episcopal dignity in Ireland, he would exert himself in correcting whatever abuses existed in the Church, and would endeavour to induce the king and bishops of the country to co-operate with him in the good work.

17. Killilagh burial ground near Broadford

    Broadford · town · Limerick · 1302

    Killilagh was the church for the detached portion of the parish near the village of Broadford, given in the list of 1302 but long since disappeared. The place where it stood is still pointed out and used as a burial-ground for unbaptized children.

    Read the passage

    (The chapel of Killilagh and the chapel of Dromcathmeach in the mountains belong to Rathcahill.) Killilagh was the church for the detached portion of the parish near the village of Broadford. This church is given in the list of 1302, but has long since disappeared. The place where it stood is still pointed out near the village of Broadford, and used for a burial-ground for unbaptized children. Dromcathmeach it is also written Dromachill. It may be another name for Templeglantin near the borders of Abbevfeale parish. The old ruin is about seventy feet long by thirty wide, about six or seven feet of the walls still remain. Of late years it is much used as a burial-ground by the inhabitants of the Tournafulla district.

    Digitized by boogie

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 213

18. Kilmeedy name derived from 'church of My Ite'

    Kilmeedy · townland · Limerick

    The place name Kilmeedy is explained as deriving from the Irish 'Cill Mide,' meaning the 'church of My Ite,' where the prefix 'mo' (my) is a term of endearment prefixed to saints held in special veneration, and 'Ite' is the ancient form of Ita.

    Read the passage

    one of her disciples into Ita. 1 By this and its various forms, Ida, Ide, Mide, 2 she was known in her own and succeeding ages. The variations in the name are thus explained. Where the ancient writers use t the modern use d, hence the change of Ite into Ide. When a saint was held in special veneration by the people they prefixed the monosyllable mo, signifying “ my ” as a term of endearment, which is well illustrated in the word Kilmeedy, meaning the “ church of My Ite.”

    From the baptismal font, our Saint was full of the Holy Ghost, her modesty and reserve was the theme of every tongue. Even in those tender years she observed the fasts prescribed by the Church. When she spoke all were edified with the purity and innocence of her conversation, which always savoured of virtue and was a discouragement to vice. In this manner she spent the days of her youth, in her father’s house a burning and a shining light to all who were blessed with her acquaintance.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 41

19. King of Bruree styled in Book of Rights poem

    Bruree · town · Limerick · 800–999

    In the poem following the prose portion of the Book of Rights, the chieftain of Ui Cairbre is styled King of Bruree, indicating he was King of the Ui Fidhgente. The poem was likely composed in the ninth or tenth century.

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    In the poem that follows he is styled King of Bruree, indicating that he was King of the Ui Fidhgente at the time the poem was composed, which would be some time in the ninth or tenth century, as it was during those centuries the chieftains of Ui Cairbre principally figure in history ; and that through alliances with the Danes.

    Being a rich and fair land, situated for the most part in an open plain, it fell an easy conquest to the Anglo-Normans soon after their arrival in the country. The limits of the tuaths that lay in this district are not so well defined as in Ui Conaill. The information that has come down from Irish and Anglo-Norman sources is very meagre.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 13

20. Limerick city burned during suppression of the Irish

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    When Richard de la Rokel, a former justiciary, with other magnates of Ireland were in Limerick for the purpose of suppressing the Irish, the city took fire and was burned. It was decided that each county of Ireland under English rule would contribute twenty marks to cover the damage.

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    (4) When Richard de la Rokel, a former justiciary, with other magnates of Ireland, were in Limerick for the purpose of suppressing the Irish, the city took fire and was burned. To recoup them for their loss on that occasion it was decided that each county of Ireland

    1 s.c.d.i.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 124

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through Limerick. In the medieval period, Richard de la Rokel, a former justiciary, and other magnates of Ireland were in Limerick to suppress the Irish. The city took fire and was burned. Afterward, it was decided that each county of Ireland under English rule would contribute twenty marks to cover the damage.

21. Limerick city walls repaired against Irish enemies

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1399–1400

    A royal charter acknowledges the great labours and expenses sustained by the Mayor and community of Limerick in resisting the Irish enemies and in repairing and mending the city walls for fortification. In consideration of these efforts, additional liberties and articles were granted to the city in perpetuity.

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    And further, of our more abundant grace, and in consideration of the great labours and expenses which the aforesaid Mayor and community have long sustained, and are still likely to sustain, in resisting the Irish enemies, and in repairing and mending the walls of the aforesaid city, for fortification against the aforesaid enemies, we have granted, for us and our heirs, to the aforesaid Mayor and community of the said city, and their heirs and successors for ever, the articles and liberties underwritten, to wit, that they may assemble in a certain place within the aforesiad city at pleasure, and establish and ordain ordinances and statutes for the advantage of the said city.

    And that they may elect a Mayor and two Bailiffs for the government of the said city, to continue for one year, and so from year to year for ever ; and that the said Mayor thus elected shall receive and take his oath of fealty before the Mayor who was next before him ; or otherwise, in failure of him, whether occurring by death or other impediment, before the citizens of the city aforesaid.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 342

22. Location of the House of St. Mary and the Holy Cross

    Sir Harry's Mall · street · Limerick · 1200–1299

    A house of cross-bearing friars following the rule of St. Augustine was situated in Sir Harry's Mall in Limerick. It was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Edward King and Martyr, and the Holy Cross.

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    It has been generally asserted that there were two houses of the Augustinian Order in the city. One belonging to the Regular Canons of St. Augustine was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Edward King and Martyr. It is supposed to have occupied the site of the city court-house, opposite the Cathedral. The other house belonged to Augustinian Hermits, and was dedicated to the Blessed Virgn Mary and the Holy Cross. It is supposed to have been situated in Sir Harry’s Mall a little north of Ball’s Bridge. In reality both these supposed houses were one and the same and belonged neither to the Canons Regular, nor the Augustinian Hermits, but to the crouched or cross-bearing friars who followed the rule of St. Augustine, and were so called, because they originally carried a cross or staff and crouched before it. The house they occupied was situated in Sir Harry’s Mall, and generally set down as a house of Augustinian Hermits. It was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Edward King and Martyr, and the Holy Cross. In medieval documents it was sometimes called St. Mary’s and St. Edward’s, other times St. Mary’s and the Holy Cross, and in this way the error arose.

    The crouched friars 1 were introduced into England in 1244 from Italy, the home of the Order. It is said they were introduced into Limerick by one Simon Minor early in the thirteenth century, and must have been well established in the year 1280, as in that year Nicholas Harold attorned Henry de Berkeley in a suit against the prior of this house.2

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 290

    As the companion tells it

    Along this street in Sir Harry's Mall stood a house of friars, and for a long time people got it wrong. It was generally said there were two Augustinian houses in Limerick. One, belonging to the Regular Canons of St. Augustine, was thought to have stood on the site of the city court-house, opposite the Cathedral. The other, said to belong to the Augustinian Hermits, was placed here in Sir Harry's Mall, a little north of Ball's Bridge. In reality, both supposed houses were one and the same, and they belonged neither to the Canons Regular nor to the Augustinian Hermits. They belonged to the crouched or cross-bearing friars, who followed the rule of St. Augustine and were so called because they originally carried a cross or staff and crouched before it. The house was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Edward King and Martyr, and the Holy Cross. In medieval documents it was sometimes called St. Mary's and St. Edward's, and other times St. Mary's and the Holy Cross, and that is how the error arose. The crouched friars were introduced into England in 1244 from Italy, the home of the Order. It is said they were brought into Limerick by one Simon Minor early in the thirteenth century. They must have been well established by 1280, because in that year Nicholas Harold attorned Henry de Berkeley in a suit against the prior of this house.

23. Monasteranenagh nave preserves Irish Romanesque architecture

    Monasteranenagh · parish · Limerick

    The nave of Monasteranenagh church, measuring 90 by 27 feet, is the oldest surviving part and retains characteristics of Irish Romanesque style developed before the Norman arrival. The western gable had a now-defaced doorway and two round-headed windows.

    Read the passage

    The nave was 90 feet by 27 feet, and appears to be the oldest part of the building still preserving the characteristics of the Irish Romanesque style of architecture, which was developed in Ireland before the coming of the Normans. In the western gable there was a doorway, now defaced, and high up the wall two round-headed windows. The choir was 54 feet long and was separated by a screen wall from the nave, which had a trefoil-headed window and a low doorway. The belfry tower was between the choir and chancel — it fell in 1806. The chancel was 27 feet square, and lit by a beautiful three-lighted window, which fell in 1874. There were two side aisles to the church, which have disappeared, but the arches remain and are

    Digitized by boogie

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 268

24. North Munster men travel to Donaghmore seeking baptism

    Donaghmore · parish · Limerick

    The fame of Patrick's miracle spread, and the men of North Munster came in fleets of boats southwards to Donaghmore of Maghaine (also called Dun Nocfene) to find St. Patrick, who baptized them at Terryglass where he was staying.

    Read the passage

    While in these parts Cairthen,1 son of Blod, the senior of the Clan Turlogh, whose territory was at the Clare side of the Shannon, came to St. Patrick, and, after making a profession of faith, was baptized by him at Singland. Here, too, he wrought a miracle in favour of Cairthen, by curing his son, Echu Ballderg, from some infirmities he was labouring under. The fame of this miracle no doubt spread from one tribe to another, and influenced the men of North Munster to the north of Luimnech, to come in fleets of boats southwards as far as Donaghmore of Maghaine — that is Dun Nocfene — and he baptized them at Terryglass, where he was when they arrived. He afterwards went to Finne, to the north-west of Donaghmore, a hill from which he could see the country to the north of the Luimnech, and blessed their land. Pointing to the green isle in the west in the mouth of the sea, he said that the lamp of the people of God should come into it, who would be the head of the council to this district.

    This event is also recorded in the Life of St. Senan,2 and is worth quoting here, as it helps to identify the locality whence the men of North Munster came, as well as the place where they met St. Patrick : —

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 30

25. Rossbrien Chapel, no traces, formerly monks of Rastro

    Rossbrien · townland · Limerick

    The chapel of Fearan-na-guilleagh, now called Ross Brien, left no traces. It formerly belonged to monks of the chapel de Rastro or Ratuird and belonged to the parish priest of Limerick, whose vicarage was held by the college of vicars.

    Read the passage

    The chapel of Fearan-na-guilleagh, now called Ross Brien, of which no traces are left. It formerly belonged to some monks of the chapel de Rastro or Ratuird. It belongs to the parish priest (parochialis) of Limerick, whose vicarage belongs to the college of vicars. . . . . . . . . 40

    The chapel of Baillione, part of the parish of Feadamuir.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 358

26. Ruins of Kilquane church at the foot of Caher

    Caher (Connell) · townland · Limerick

    The ruins of the ancient church of Kilquane are situated at the foot of Caher, with a nave and choir. The nave measures thirty-eight by twenty-two and a half feet and the choir fourteen feet long, with a small north-side door featuring a double lintel and inclined jambs.

    Read the passage

    From this we may conclude that Kilcomgan was in early times a benefice, a portion of which was added to the prebend of Kilpeacon, and the vicarage to St. Munchin’s. Later on the rectory and vicarage were attached to St. Munchin’s which would now be included in the parish of Kilquane. The ruins of this church are situated at the foot of Caher, and had a nave and choir, the former measures thirty-eight by twenty-two and a-half feet, and the latter fourteen feet long. There was a small door to the north side of the middle gable with double lintel and inclined jambs. The portion of Kilquane attached to Kilpeacon may be that place marked on the Ordnance Map between the parishes of Effin and Colman’s Well, and still bearing the name of Hakmys. There is also marked the site of an old church which may have been the chapel of Haknis.

    Ecclesia de Cluaincourtha .

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 203

27. St. Brendan dies at Annaghdown

    Annaghdown · townland · Galway

    St. Brendan died at the age of ninety-four while visiting his sister's convent at Annaghdown. The convent was situated on the shore of Lough Corrib.

    Read the passage

    Influenced by the spirit of the age, he built a cell, •and founded a* religious community. But the most remarkable event in connection with Brendan was his voyage in the Atlantic ocean. It is said that he wandered seven years in that great ocean, and that he reached America, a land of delight and wonders as it is depicted in his biographies. After his return the news of his voyage and discoveries made him famous. He again visited not only the great schools of Erin, but those of Wales and Brittany. Finally, he settled down at Clonfert, on the western bank of the .Shannon, where he was soon surrounded by a multitude of disciples. He died while on a visit to his sister’s convent at Annaghdown, on the shore of Lough Corrib, in the ninety-fourth year of his age.

    St. Pulcherius.1

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 47

28. St. Mary's Cathedral founded on O'Brien palace site

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    St. Mary's was set down as the Cathedral Church of the diocese. If it was founded on the palace of the O'Briens, it must have been Murtagh who bestowed the gift, not Donald as commonly asserted. The dedication to the Blessed Virgin Mary may have been an expedient to avoid friction between rival sections.

    Read the passage

    an arrangement, and doubtless got this clause enacted as a safeguard to the decree. St. Mary’s is set down as the Cathedral Church of the diocese, and if there be any truth in the statement that it was founded on the palace of the O’Briens it must have been Murtagh that bestowed the gift, and not Donald, as is commonly asserted. The dedication of the cathedral1 of the newly formed diocese to the Blessed Virgin Mary may have been an expedient to avoid whatever friction was likely to arise from either of the sections striving to get their own patron acknowledged as patron of the whole diocese.

    Another very important law was made at this synod^ namely, “ that all the churches of Ireland were given up in full possession to the Irish prelates, who were henceforth to hold them for ever free from authority or rent of any temporal lord.”2

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 71

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, St. Mary's Cathedral stands in this city, set down as the Cathedral Church of the diocese. If there is any truth in the statement that it was founded on the palace of the O'Briens, it must have been Murtagh who bestowed the gift, and not Donald, as is commonly asserted. The dedication of the cathedral of the newly formed diocese to the Blessed Virgin Mary may have been an expedient to avoid whatever friction was likely to arise from either of the sections striving to get their own patron acknowledged as patron of the whole diocese. Another very important law was made at this synod, namely, that all the churches of Ireland were given up in full possession to the Irish prelates, who were henceforth to hold them for ever free from authority or rent of any temporal lord.

29. Turlough O'Brien founds Monasteranenagh Abbey near Croom

    Monasteranenagh · parish · Limerick · 1148–1201

    Turlough O'Brien, King of Thomond, founded a Cistercian monastery a few miles south-east of Croom on the bank of the Commogue in 1148 or 1151. Known officially as St. Mary de Magio and in Irish records as Monasteranenagh, it received large land grants confirmed by King John in 1201.

    Read the passage

    Turlough O’Brien, King of Thomond, introduced the Order into Munster, and founded a monastery for them a few miles south-east of Croom, on the left bank of the Commogue, a tributary of the Maigue, in the year 1148 or 1151. Inofficial documents it is always styled St. Mary

    Digitized by Google

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 263

30. Waterford clergy compelled to pay first-fruits

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1454

    The council decreed that the clergy and chapter of the city and diocese of Waterford, who refused to pay first-fruits to ordinaries according to the custom of the Province of Cashel, must be reformed and compelled to humbly pay. This brought Waterford into line with the practice of other dioceses.

    Read the passage

    120. Statuit sacrum concilium clerum et capitulum civitatis et dioeces. Waterfordien. ac praelatos ecclesiarum, qui secundum consuetudinem provinciae Cashellensis fructus primi anni, ratione collationis eis factae, ordinariis solvere renuunt, per totum concilium fore reformandos, juxta morem et consuetudinem aliarum dioecesium, et •(ad) hujusmodi annatam humiliter persolvend. compellendos.

    1 21. Statuit concihum, quod ubi rector alicujus ecclesiae personaliter non residet in eadem, vicarius ibidem residens, et animarum •curam gerens, habeat et in suos usus convertat terras ecclesiasticas pro parte rectoris non residents .reddendo exinde ipsi rectori omnia reddenda ; ac rectores ipsi, contrarium exercentes, per vicarios locorum €xcommunicentur auctoritate praesentis concilii et statuti.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 354

31. William O'Conyre and the church of Athneasy

    Athneasy · parish · Limerick · 1421

    William O'Conyre (Connery) bound himself to the Apostolic Chamber for the first fruits of the parochial church of Athneasy, valued at 12 marcs. He was later penalised for holding the church for over a year without a dispensation, not being in Holy Orders, and owed 16 golden florins for fruits unduly received.

    Read the passage

    William O’Conyre (Connery), principal, bound himself to the Apostolic Chamber for the first fruits of the parochial church of Handeys (Athneasy), value 12 marcs, vacant by the non-promotion (to Holy Orders) of the suppliant. Also for the fruits unduly received he bound himself to pay 16 florins within a year.

    William O’Conyre, discretus vir, cleric of the diocese of Limerick, personally bound himself for the fruits unduly received from the parochial church of Handeys (Athneasy), because he held the said church for more than a year without a dispensation, not being in Holy Orders. It was valued at 12 marcs, and he bound himself to pay 16 golden florins for the fruits unduly received within eight months under pain of excommunication.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 225

32. Pagan cemetery and Ogham stones at Ballycommane

    Ballycommane · townland · Cork

    The remains of an old Irish pagan cemetery survive in the townland of Ballycommane, Catholic parish of Toumafulla. Excavated mounds revealed drystone-walled chambers with traces of fire, corroded iron, calcined bones, and a primitive stone implement. Tradition records flag-stones with writing like music, since broken up for field drains, which may have been Ogham stones.

    Read the passage

    In the townland of Ballycommane, Catholic parish of Toumafulla, there are the remains of an old Irish pagan cemetery. There are a great number of little

    1 O.S.L., Limk., R.I.A., also Dolmens of Ireland (Borlase).

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Ballycommane, the remains of an old Irish pagan cemetery have been found. Excavated mounds revealed drystone-walled chambers with traces of fire, corroded iron, calcined bones, and a primitive stone implement. Tradition records flag-stones with writing like music, since broken up for field drains, which may have been Ogham stones.

33. Thady Quin acquires Adare monasteries in 1684

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1684–1811

    The Trinitarian and other monasteries of Adare passed through many hands until they became the property of Thady Quin in 1684. In 1811 the first Earl of Dunraven repaired the ruin of the Trinitarian church and presented it to the Catholics as a parochial church.

    Read the passage

    This and the other monasteries of Adare passed through many hands until they became the property of Thady Quin in 1684. In 1811 the first Earl of Dunraven repaired the ruin of the Trinitarian church, and presented it to the Catholics as a parochial church. The Trinitarian Fathers wore a white habit with a red and blue cross.

    The Augustinian House or Black Abbey , Adare.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 285

34. Ancient episcopal seal of John, Bishop of Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1849

    In 1849 the Royal Irish Academy acquired an ancient seal probably belonging to Bishop John of Limerick. The seal bears the rude image of a bishop under a canopy with another prelate figure below, inscribed 'Sigillu Dni Johs Epi Lymrensis' — the seal of John Bishop of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    In 1849 the Royal Irish Academy became possessed of an ancient seal, probably of this bishop. It bears the rude image of a bishop under a canopy, beneath which there is the figure of another prelate with his crozier. It has the following inscription : “ Sigillu Dni Johs Epi Lymrensis.” — The seal of John Bishop of Limerick. The workmanship of the carving is rude.

    The following appointments were made in the diocese during John’s episcopacy : —

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 232

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, there is an old seal tied to this city. In 1849 the Royal Irish Academy acquired it, and it probably belonged to Bishop John of Limerick. The seal bears the rude image of a bishop under a canopy, with another prelate holding his crozier below. Its inscription reads "Sigillu Dni Johs Epi Lymrensis" — the seal of John Bishop of Limerick. The workmanship of the carving is rude.

35. Armagh as the Primatial See founded by St. Patrick

    near Armagh · town · Armagh · 400–499

    Armagh was founded by St. Patrick in the fifth century and has remained the Primatial See of Ireland ever since. Its annals are deeply associated with the life of the Catholic Faith in Ireland.

    Read the passage

    " Rome is not more closely associated with history of the Church Universal than the annals of Armagh with the life of the Catholic Faith in Ireland. Founded by St. Patrick in the fifth century, the city has remained the Primatial See ever since ; its chronicles therefore can scarcely fail to be of deep interest to the Catholic reader.” — Weekly Register .

    “ A perfect mine of historical and ecclesiastical lore of deep interest, and quite invaluable to students of Irish history.”— Catholic Herald.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 409

36. Chapel of St. Margaret, Newtown near Carrigogunnell

    Newtown · townland · Limerick · 1605

    The chapel of St. Margaret at Newtown near Carrigogunnell belonged to the Hospitallers of Ainey and was granted to Thomas Browne in 1605 as 'Newtown near Adare.' The ruin, near the Shannon, measures 56.5 feet by 22.5 feet, is in fair preservation, but was never used as a burial ground.

    Read the passage

    The chapel of St. Margaret,1 Newtown, near Carrigogunnell. This church belonged to the Hospitallers of Ainey. In a grant made of this preceptory to Thomas Browne in 1605, it is given as “ Newtown near Adare.” The townland is often mentioned in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries in the Pipe Rolls. The ruin is near the Shannon, and measures fifty-six and one-half feet long by twenty-two and a-half wide. It is in a fair state of preservation, but appears to have been never used as a burial-ground.

    Farran na Guillagh.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 198

37. Ciaran and Brendan visit Senan on Scattery Island

    Scattery Island · townland · Clare

    Ciaran of Clonmacnois and Brendan of Birr visited Inis Cathaigh and made Senan their confessor. There was a scarcity of food which was supplied by Nectan Kennfhoda, prince of Hy Fidhgente, who brought a boatful of provisions to the island.

    Read the passage

    Ciaran of Clonmacnois, and Brendan of Birr, paid a visit to Inis Cathaigh, and made Senan their confessor. When they arrived at the monastery there was a scarcity of food, which was soon supplied by Nectan Kennfhoda, prince of Hy Fidhgente, who brought a boatful of provisions to the island. The Saints met him on the shore, and after a hearty welcome they blessed him and his posterity.

    Senan lived during the time of the second order of Irish Saints, and strictly observed the rule forbidding women to enter the enclosure of the monastery.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 38

38. Corea Muichead and the MacEnery chieftains

    Corcomohide · parish · Limerick

    Corea Muichead was one of the free tribes of Erin, ruled by the MacEnery chieftains. Its territory was co-extensive with the present parishes of Corcomohide, Kilmeedy, Drumcollogher, and Cloncrew, and the family retained a portion of their patrimony until the Cromwellian confiscations.

    Read the passage

    In early Anglo-Norman documents 2 it is called Corkemoyd, and Corkemoyst. It is not mentioned in detail in any document down to Peyton’s Survey, where it is styled the Toghe of Clonehennery, in the parish of Ballyin castellane Corkmohur, i.e., Castletown Coreamohoid ; and would be co-extensive with the present parishes of Corcomohide, Kilmeedy, Drumcollogher, and Cloncrew. The chieftain of this district was MacEnery, and the family succeeded in retaining a portion of their ancient patrimony down to the Cromwellian confiscations.

    Brughrigh (Bruree).

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 10

39. Franciscan convent ruins at Adare in Dunraven demesne

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1579–1585

    The Franciscan convent at Adare was inhabited by friars until 1579 and granted to Wallop in 1585. When Mooney visited, the roof had fallen in but walls and some window glass survived; the ruins remain in the demesne of the Earl of Dunraven in good preservation.

    Read the passage

    This convent was inhabited by the friars as late as I579> but it was granted in 1585 to Wallop, and from at least that time ceased to be a Franciscan convent. When Mooney visited the place he found the roof fallen in but the walls standing and the glass uninjured in some of the windows. The ruins of the convent are in the demesne of the Earl of Dunraven, and are in a good state of preservation.

    Kilshane, Ballingarry.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 280

40. Gilbert de Clare born and baptized in Limerick cathedral

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1281–1302

    In 1302, an inquiry at Cashel examined witnesses to prove Gilbert de Clare had come of age. Sir Maurice de Lees testified that Gilbert was born at Limerick and baptized in the cathedral by Bishop Gerald on 3 February 1281.

    Read the passage

    Accordingly witnesses were examined to prove that Gilbert1 was now over age. Sir Maurice de Lees was first sworn and separately examined. He said that Gilbert was born at Limerick, and baptized in the cathedral by Gerald, then bishop, on the 3rd of February, 1281. When asked how he could speak with such certainty regarding Gilbert’s age, he replied because he was a member of the household of Thomas the father of Gilbert on the day when he was bom, and remained until August 29th, 1287, on which day Thomas died. Gilbert was then six years of age. A great many more witnesses were examined, and they all testified that

    *See S.C.D.I . for these particulars relating to Gilbert.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 169

    As the companion tells it

    Passing through Limerick, this is where Gilbert de Clare was born. In 1302, an inquiry at Cashel examined witnesses to prove he had come of age. Sir Maurice de Lees was first sworn and examined. He said Gilbert was born at Limerick and baptized in the cathedral by Gerald, then bishop, on 3 February 1281. Asked how he could be so certain, he said he was a member of the household of Thomas, Gilbert's father, on the day Gilbert was born, and remained until 29 August 1287, when Thomas died. Gilbert was then six years old. A great many more witnesses were examined, and they all testified.

41. Glenmore church paved passage to Glenquin Castle

    Glenmore · townland · Limerick

    The field on which Glenmore church is built was tilled, and during the process a paved passage was found leading from the door towards Glenquin castle. It may have been a chapel of ease for the occupant of that baronial pile.

    Read the passage

    It was surrounded by a mound or ditch which was levelled some years ago. The field on which it is built was tilled, and during the process a paved passage was found leading from the door towards Glenquin castle. It may have been a chapel of ease for the occupant of that baronial pile.

    Decanatus de Rathgell (The Deanery of Rathkeale).

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 215

42. Irish and English laws side by side at Newcastle West

    Newcastle · town · Limerick · 1298

    Perquisites of court, both English and Irish, at Newcastle and Killyde were valued at 100s., showing that the Irish living in this manor enjoyed their own laws alongside the English.

    Read the passage

    Perquisites of court, as well English as of Irish, and as well of Newcastle as of Killyde, 100s., which clearly shows the Irish living in this manor and Killyde enjoyed their own laws side by side with the English.

    Perquisites of the court of the hundred at Ardagh, ■6$. 8 A.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 133

43. Irish-held lands between Ballyhahill and Athea

    Athea · town · Limerick · 1298

    The Irish held three-quarters of land at Athea, valued at 40s. in time of peace, and land at Banemore. A half-quarter at Ballauchdram lay waste because it lay among the Irish, who enjoyed their own laws and independence.

    Read the passage

    The Lands held by the Irish. — The Irish held three-quarters of land at Adthe (Athea), which was value for 40s. in time of peace ; Manchmore (Banemore), 40s. in time of peace ; half a quarter at Ballauchdram lying waste and producing nothing, because it lies among the Irish. These townlands comprised the country lying between Ballyhahill and Athea, evidently inhabited by Irish enjoying their own laws and a certain amount of independence.

    The following townlands were scattered through the manor, and generally contained the worst lands : —

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 131

44. Irish victory over Normans at Thurles

    Thurles · town · Tipperary · 1174

    O'Brien joined forces with O'Connor in 1174 and met the army of Strongbow at Thurles, where they inflicted a crushing defeat on the Norman invaders.

    Read the passage

    The native princes at length assembled their forces to protect their patrimony against such unjustifiable proceedings. O’Brien joined O’Connor (1174), and met the army of Strongbow at Thurles, 1 where they inflicted a crushing defeat on the invaders.

    O’Brien now became very active against the newcomers, and being a man not wanting in ability did much to wipe out the disgrace of submission by his subsequent action.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 77

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Thurles now. In 1174 this was ground where the tide turned. O'Brien joined with O'Connor and met the army of Strongbow here, and they inflicted a crushing defeat on the Norman invaders. O'Brien then became very active against the newcomers, working to wipe out the disgrace of his earlier submission by what he did next.

45. Kilcommyn church dedicated to St. Comgan

    Kilcommon · townland · Mayo · 1201

    The church of Hackmys, otherwise Kilcommyn, has its earliest form as Kilcomgan in the 1201 list, meaning the church of St. Comgan or Congan. St. Comgan is mentioned in Irish and Scotch calendars at 13th October and is supposed to have lived in the eighth century.

    Read the passage

    The earliest form of the name of this church is Kilcomgan, which occurs in the list of 1201. Kilcomgan means the church of St. Comgan or Congan as he is variously called. He is mentioned in the Irish and Scotch calendars 1 at 13th October, and is supposed to have lived in the eighth century. Kilcommyn or Kilcommon, with its phonetic equivalent Kilchoan 2 (Kilquane) and Kilconegan are only different forms of Kilcomgan which enables us to trace the history of this church.

    1 See O’ Hanlon’s Lives of Irish Saints, 13th October.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 201

46. Limerick: best fortified city in the kingdom

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1400–1499

    During the fifteenth century a systematic effort was made to complete Limerick's fortifications, carried out so thoroughly that Limerick became known as the best fortified city in the kingdom. The part of the town on the island was already well fortified, and attention then turned to the Irishtown beyond Ball's Bridge.

    Read the passage

    During the remaining years of the century a systematic effort was made to complete the fortifications, and so thoroughly was the work carried out, that Limerick was known in after years as the best fortified city in the kingdom.

    The part of the town built on the island was previously well fortified, and now that part lying beyond Ball’s-

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 249

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are in a city that earned a name in the fifteenth century as the best fortified city in the kingdom. A systematic effort was made to complete the fortifications during those years. The part of the town on the island was already well fortified, and attention then turned to the part lying beyond Ball's Bridge.

47. Limerick trade regulation and shipping privileges

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1391

    In 1391, a grant was made to the Mayor of Limerick allowing regulation of foreign merchants buying goods in the city, which was on the frontiers of hostile Irish neighbours. Citizens could send two ships annually to foreign ports to sell goods freely during truces.

    Read the passage

    In the following year3 another grant was made with the assent of the council to the Mayor of Limerick for the benefit of the city, which is situated on the frontiers of the king’s Irish enemies, who from day to day came into it, and against the will of the said mayor, burgesses, and good men, buy victuals and merchandize to their great loss. For the next seven years no foreign merchant, and in particular, no enemy shall buy any merchandize in the city without licence of the mayor, and for the better guarding and maintaining, they may once a year freely send out two ships to foreign ports

    1 See Cox, Hibernia A nglicana .

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 186

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes through Limerick, in 1391 a grant was made with the assent of the council to the Mayor for the benefit of the city. It sat on the frontiers of the king's Irish enemies, who came into it day after day, against the will of the mayor, the burgesses, and the good men, buying victuals and merchandise to the city's great loss. For the next seven years no foreign merchant, and in particular no enemy, was to buy merchandise in the city without the mayor's licence. For the better guarding and maintaining, the citizens could once a year freely send out two ships to foreign ports.

48. MacSheehy builds Lisnacullia Castle in Clonagh

    Lisnacullia · townland · Limerick

    MacSheehy, progenitor of the Sheehy family, came to Limerick as captain of a body-guard and was retained by the Earl of Desmond as captain of gallowglass. He built the castle of Lisnacullia (Woodfort) in the parish of Clonagh, about four miles west of Rathkeale.

    Read the passage

    MacSheehy, progenitor of the Sheehy, family came to Limerick as captain of a body-guard with this lady, where his services were retained by the Earl of Desmond as captain of gallowglass. He then built the castle of Lisnacullia (Woodfort), in the parish of Clonagh, about four miles west of Rathkeale. In after times his descendants were the most loyal and faithful supporters of the last earl of that noble house.

    Early in this century the earl’s foster-brother, Brian Duff, crossed the Shannon and took up his residence at Carrigogunnell, giving his name to that barony known even in our times as Pubble Brien, which was co-extensive with the old territory of Escluana that formerly belonged to the Burkes. In 1449, Richard, Duke of York,* was suspected in England of plotting to secure the throne for himself as he had a prior claim to Henry VI, who was now in feeble health. He was sent to Ireland as Viceroy, which was considered a mild but effectual way of frustrating his ambition. Having taken up the office he inaugurated a policy of conciliation, and in a short time won the good wishes of the colonists and of the native Irish.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 256

49. M'Carthy of Desmond captures Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1198

    M'Carthy, King of Desmond, captured the city of Limerick and put the English to flight, shortly after they had received King John's charter. The reverse of fortune was only temporary.

    Read the passage

    1198. They were not long in the enjoyment of this royal boon, when M‘Carthy, King of Desmond, captured the city, and put the English to flight. The reverse of fortune was only temporary.

    Most of the documents relating to Limerick during Richard’s reign are missing, but from the position of affairs as revealed in King John’s time, it seems that the invaders were actively engaged in subduing and exterminating the natives. Hamo de Valoignes legally secured them in those newly made-conquests, and John, as Earl of Morton, and afterwards as king, formally sanctioned them.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead, Limerick. In 1198, the English here had only just received King John's charter when M'Carthy, King of Desmond, captured the city and put the English to flight. That reverse of fortune was only temporary. Most documents from Richard's reign are missing, but affairs in King John's time suggest the invaders were actively subduing and exterminating the natives. Hamo de Valoignes legally secured them in those newly made conquests, and John, as Earl of Morton and afterwards as king, formally sanctioned them.

50. Scattery Island: former Archiepiscopate and monastery of St. Senanus

    Scattery Island · townland · Clare

    The chapel of Iniscatha, or Scattery Island, was formerly an Archiepiscopate in the time of St. Senanus, and a celebrated monastery remained extant there. It was listed among the benefices of the Diocese of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    Chapel of Inniscatha or Scattery Island (formerly, in the time of St. Senanus, it was an Archiepiscopate, and a celebrated monastery is extant there). . . . . . . . . 10

    Decanate of Ardagh.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 363

51. St. Culan of Glenkeen and his preserved bell

    Glenkeen · townland · Tipperary

    St. Culan was associated with Glenkeen in the territory of Ui-Luigheach (Ileagh) in what is now County Tipperary. His bell, called Beranan-Culain, was said to be still preserved at the time of writing. He was descended from Eoghan, son of Oilioll Flannbeg, King of Munster.

    Read the passage

    V. Oilioll Flannbeg. He was King of Munster for thirty years, and was slain in the battle of Corann by the men of Connaught, aided by Fothadh Conann, son of Maccon, the ancestor of the O’ Driscolls. He had four sons, namely : (1) Eochaidh, King of Munster, whose race is extinct ; (2) Daire Cearba, the ancestor of O’ Donovan ; (3) Lughaidh, ancestor of MacCarthy and his correlatives ; (4) Eoghan, from whom descended six saints, namely : ( 1 ) St. Cormac, whose life is given in the Book of Lecan, and published in a Latin translation by Colgan at 26th March ; (2) St. Becan of Cill-Becain at the foot of Sliabh gCrot in Muscraighe-Chuirc ; (3) St. Culan of Glen keen, in the territory of Ui-Luigheach [Ileagh], in the present county of Tipperary, whose bell, called Beranan-Culain, is still preserved ; (4) St. Evin of Ros-glas, now Monasterevin, in the county of Kildare ; (5) St. Dermot of Kilmacnowen, near the hill of Knocknarea, in the count}' of Sligo ; and (6) Boetan of Cill-Boetain, in the territory of Dalaradia, in the east of Ulster. — See O’Flaherty’ s Ogygia, p. 381, where O’Flaherty writes : “ Olillo Flannbeg regi Momoniae supererant Achaius, rex Momoniae, Darius Kearb, ex quo O'Donawan Lugadius et Eugenius.”

    It should be here remarked, that Mr. Laine falsifies this quotation from O’Flaherty in his pedigree of the Count MacCarthy.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 326

52. St. Nicholas Church near King's Castle, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The parish church of St. Nicholas in Limerick, dedicated to the Bishop and Confessor whose festival was the 6th of September, has left no traces. Its vicarage belonged to the college of vicars choral, and it stood near the King's Castle on the south side.

    Read the passage

    The parish church of St. Nicholas. Bishop and Confessor, whose festival is celebrated on the 6th of September. Its vicariate (vicarage) belongs to the college of the vicars choral. No traces of this church exist ; but it was near the King’s Castle, on the south side. It pays

    The parish church of St. John the Baptist, whose festival is celebrated on the 24th day of June,

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 357

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, there was once a parish church of St. Nicholas here, dedicated to a Bishop and Confessor whose festival fell on the 6th of September. Its vicarage belonged to the college of the vicars choral. No traces of this church remain. It stood near the King's Castle, on the south side.

53. St. Patrick's panoramic vision from Knockpatrick

    Knockpatrick · townland · Limerick

    Knockpatrick, overlooking Foynes, is identified as the only hill in the territory from which St. Patrick could see distant places including the Atlantic Ocean, Slieve Elva, Slieve Aughty, and Scattery Island. The event is recorded in the metrical life of St. Senan as occurring while Patrick was in Hy Conaill.

    Read the passage

    Knockpatrick, overlooking Foynes, is the only hill in the territory from which all these places so far distant from each other could be seen as St. Patrick saw them. In the metrical1 life of St. Senan, this event is said to have taken place while St. Patrick was in Hy Conaill. Foynes seems to be a modern form of the ancient Finne or Fidhne. In the Rental of Conaill it is written Foynd, and in Peyton’s Survey there is a wood called Kyllfoyne in the locality. Tradition points the route St. Patrick followed from Knockpatrick, namely, through Ardagh and Knockaderry, to the east of the county. Here, in the southern part of Desibeg, which apparently he visited for the first time, he laid the foundations of a church on a hill now known as Ardpatrick. While engaged in the blessed work he was opposed by the ruling chief, who after a little persuasion, consented to allow the Saint to finish the church, provided he would remove the mountain called Cen-Abhrat, that intercepted the view of Lough Lunga, in the barony of Fermoy. When St. Patrick caused the mountain to dissolve and formed the pass called Belach Legtha (or Melted Pass), Derball the chieftain became more obdurate, declaring that he would not believe, no matter what the Saint might accomplish.

    After spending a considerable time in the territory baptizing and teaching the people, he went to evangelize other districts, leaving behind him well-trained missionaries, as was his custom, to organize and minister to the spiritual wants of the newly-formed Christian community.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 32

54. Atheneasy church dedicated to St. Athanasius

    Athneasy · parish · Limerick · 1274–1318

    Atheneasy derives its name from Atha na ndeisi (the ford of the Desi) and was situated in the centre of the old territory of Cliu Mail, dedicated to St. Athanasius. The parish was fined £4 10s in 1274-1277 for a criminal's escape from its church, and the church was robbed by John Staloun in 1318. The old ruin was near Elton Bridge, marked by a graveyard.

    Read the passage

    Rolley (Raleigh) is mentioned as holding the manor and advowson of Athnedes. The old ruin was situated near Elton Bridge, and the site is marked by a graveyard.

    Ecclesia de Kilbride Maior, Rectoria Vicaria special ad present acionem Odonis de Lees .

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick

55. Belfry tower and chancel window collapses at Monasteranenagh

    Monasteranenagh · parish · Limerick · 1806–1874

    The belfry tower at Monasteranenagh, situated between the choir and chancel, fell in 1806. The chancel, 27 feet square, was lit by a beautiful three-lighted window which fell in 1874.

    Read the passage

    The nave was 90 feet by 27 feet, and appears to be the oldest part of the building still preserving the characteristics of the Irish Romanesque style of architecture, which was developed in Ireland before the coming of the Normans. In the western gable there was a doorway, now defaced, and high up the wall two round-headed windows. The choir was 54 feet long and was separated by a screen wall from the nave, which had a trefoil-headed window and a low doorway. The belfry tower was between the choir and chancel — it fell in 1806. The chancel was 27 feet square, and lit by a beautiful three-lighted window, which fell in 1874. There were two side aisles to the church, which have disappeared, but the arches remain and are

    Digitized by boogie

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 268

56. Bruree as ancient seat of royalty (Dun Eochair Mhaighe)

    Bruree · town · Limerick

    Bruree was from remote times a seat of royalty, also called Dun Eochair Mhaighe, the fort on the brink of the river Maigue. It was one of the principal royal residences of the King of Munster identifiable in Hy Fidhgente.

    Read the passage

    Bruree (seat of the kings) was from remote times a seat of royalty. It was also called Dun Eochair Mhaighe (the fort on the brink of the river Maigue). About a mile north of the village, on the western bank of the river, in the townland of Lower Lotteragh, there is a

    i See Book of Rights.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 18

57. Cathedral of Limerick dedication tradition

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The cathedral and parochial church of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Limerick was dedicated on the 15th of August. Jasper White noted an old breviary assigning the dedication to the Sunday after the 16th of July, but tradition affirms the 15th of August as the proper day.

    Read the passage

    Not a bene that I, Jasper White, met, written in the calendar of an old breviary belonging to the diocese of Limerick, the Sunday after the 16th July to be the day assigned for the dedication’ of the cathedral of Limerick, with an octave ; but a continued tradition assures us of the contrary, and that the 15th of August is the proper day for the dedication, as Dr. Jasper White has affirmed above.

    The parish church of St. Munchin, the patron saint of the whole city, whose festival is celebrated on the 2nd day of January.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 357

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the cathedral here is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. There is a note from Jasper White in the calendar of an old breviary belonging to the diocese of Limerick, assigning the dedication to the Sunday after the 16th of July, with an octave. But a continued tradition assures the contrary, that the 15th of August is the proper day, as Jasper White himself affirmed. The patron saint of the whole city is St. Munchin, whose festival is celebrated on the 2nd of January.

58. Church of Athlacca disputed between Richard Bondwill and Thomas St. James

    Athlacca · parish · Limerick · 1394

    In 1394, Richard Bondwill was to be summoned regarding the church of Athlacca, valued at 15 marks, which he unlawfully detained. Thomas Hunt had held it for over two years without being ordained priest, and it was to be given to Thomas St. James, a canon of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    1394.6 Richard Bondwill, priest, to be summoned, and if it is found that the church of Athlacach (Athlacca), value for 15 marks, although unlawfully detained by said Richard, is void because Thomas Hunt held it for two years and more, without being ordained priest ; it is to be given to Thomas St. James, canon of Limerick, notwithstanding that the Pope has recently ordered

    1 Patent Rolls. 4 Ibid.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 164

59. Dean's Close and clergy residences around cathedral

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The Dean's Close extended from the western door of St. Mary's Cathedral down to the site of the present County Court, with the Dean's house near the site of the gaol in Crobsie's Row. The ecclesiastical property formed a 'sanctuary' extending towards the castle, affording protection to the accused until they received a fair hearing.

    Read the passage

    Round the cathedral stood the residences of the clergy who served the church. The Dean’s Close extended from the western door of the cathedral down to the site of the present County Court, his house stood near the site of the gaol in Crobsie’s Row. The college of Vicars-Choral was opposite the north transept on the other side of Bow lane, and its pointed doorway and perpendicular windows were in perfect preservation until they were removed Last year; and the site is now occupied by a row of newlybuilt cottages. An underground passage was discovered some years ago leading from it to the cathedral.

    The rest of the ecclesiastical property extended towards the castle, the whole forming the “ sanctuary,” and had certain rights and privileges, one of which was to afford protection to those accused until they should have a fair hearing from their judges in doubtful cases ; and to give the clergy an opportunity to intercede for delinquents, but not to shield public criminals from the

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 298

60. Gillebert's tract De usu Ecclesiastico for Irish Church reform

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    As Bishop of Limerick, Gillebert wrote a tract called De usu Ecclesiastico to abolish the variety of liturgical offices introduced by Irish saints and replace them with the Roman office. The tract was composed at the request of many bishops and priests, before he became Papal Legate.

    Read the passage

    Accordingly, Gillebert-'set to work with great zeal in abolishing the variety of offices that had been introduced into the Irish Church principally by the second order of Irish saints, and to establish instead of them, the office used at Rome. To effect this change he wrote a tract called De usu Ecclesiasticoy the date of which is unknown, but must have been some time before he became Papal Legate, judging from the prologue of the work, which is extant. He addresses this tract to the bishops and priests, saying that it was composed at the request of many of them. In deference to their

    1 See Appendix.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 68

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick now. This was the see of Gillebert, a bishop who set himself to abolish the variety of offices that had been introduced into the Irish Church, chiefly by the second order of Irish saints, and to establish instead the office used at Rome. To carry out that change he wrote a tract called De usu Ecclesiastico. Its date is unknown, but it must have been some time before he became Papal Legate. The prologue of the work survives, and in it he addresses the bishops and priests, saying the tract was composed at the request of many of them.