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. Glenmore church (Temple na hInghine Baoit)

   Glenmore · townland · Limerick

   This church in the parish of Monagay is locally known as Temple na hInghine-Baoit, called after the Dalcassian saint, daughter of Baoith. It measures sixty-seven feet by eighteen and a half, with much of the walls still standing, and was surrounded by a mound or ditch levelled some years ago.

   Read the passage

   This church is in the parish of Monagay, and is not mentioned in any list. It is locally known as Temple na hinghine-Baoit, evidently called after the Dalcassian saint, daughter of Baoith, patroness of Kilnaboy, near Inchiquin Lake, Co. Clare. It measures sixty-seven feet by eighteen and a-half, and a good deal of the walls are still standing.

   1 See Joyce’s Irish Names of Places , ist series, p. 468.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 214

2. Glenogra church ruin near the castle

   Glenogra · townland · Limerick

   The old church of Glenogra, dedicated to St. Nicholas on December 6th, stands near the castle of the same name. The ruin measures sixty-nine feet by twenty-one and a half feet, with a side wing on the south side possibly added for the lord of the castle. The chapel of St. Kyran was attached to this church.

   Read the passage

   (The church of Glenogra ; rectory belongs to the prior of Athissell who presents the vicar.) Glenogra (Glenogra, the glen of Orgra, pagan chief [O’Donovan] ) was dedicated to St. Nicholas, December 6th. The old ruin is near the castle of the same name, and is sixtynine feet long by twenty-one and a-half wide. There was a side wing attached to the south side of this church measuring twenty-nine and a-half feet by twenty, and perhaps was added for the accommodation of the lord of the castle. The chapel1 of St. Kyran was attached to this church.

   Decanus de Adare (The Deanery of Adare.)

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 206

3. Henry VI's charter confirms Limerick's civic liberties

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1423

   A charter confirmed by King Henry VI in 1423 granted the citizens of Limerick the same liberties and free customs as those enjoyed by the citizens of Dublin. It established that no citizen of Limerick would have to plead outside the city walls and exempted them from tolls and various customs throughout the land.

   Read the passage

   Whereas, Lord John, our grandfather, while he was Lord of Ireland, and Earl of Moreton, before he received the reins of the kingdom of England, by his charter had granted to the citizens of Limerick all the liberties and free customs which the citizens of Dublin everywhere used through whatsoever charters of the Kings of England and Lords of Ireland ; and the said citizens of Limerick, although these liberties and customs are not expressed in the charter aforesaid, nevertheless have always hitherto used these liberties and free customs from the time of the execution of the same, as by a certain inquisition thereof made pursuant to our writ by Geffry de Geynville, lately our Justiciary of Ireland, evidently appears. We having inspected the transcripts of the charters of the liberties of the aforesaid citizens of Dublin, sent to us for the purpose, according to our precept, by our beloved and faithful William de Vesey, our Justiciary of Ireland, at the requisition of our citizens of Limerick, and for the amelioration of the said city, in order that all ambiguity may be taken away from those things which affect the liberties and free customs of the aforesaid citizens of Limerick, have granted, and by this our charter have confirmed, the liberities and free customs expressed in the aforesaid charters of Dublin, specified in form following : — to wit, that no citizen of Limerick shall plead without the walls of the said city to any plea except pleas of exterior tenements, which do not appertain to the Hundred of the aforesaid city.

   And that they may be quieted of murder within the bounds of the said city ; and that no citizen engage in duel in the same city on any appeal which any one may make against him, but shall clear himself by the oaths of forty men of the said city who are legal ; and that nobody shall take a hostel within the walls by the assize or livery of the marshals against the will of the aforesaid citizens ; and that the citizens be free from toll, lastage, passage, and pondage, and from all other customs throughout all our land and dominions.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 339

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, you are moving through a city whose civic liberties were formally confirmed in 1423 by King Henry the Sixth. The story begins earlier, with Lord John, Henry's grandfather, who while he was Lord of Ireland and Earl of Moreton, before he received the reins of the kingdom of England, had granted by charter to the citizens of Limerick all the liberties and free customs which the citizens of Dublin everywhere used. Those liberties and customs were not spelled out in the charter, but the citizens of Limerick had always used them from the time of its execution. An inquisition made under the king's writ by Geffry de Geynville, formerly Justiciary of Ireland, showed this plainly. Henry the Sixth then inspected transcripts of Dublin's charters of liberties, sent to him by William de Vesey, his Justiciary of Ireland, at the request of the citizens of Limerick. For the improvement of the city, and to remove all ambiguity, he granted and confirmed the liberties and free customs written in Dublin's charters. No citizen of Limerick would have to plead outside the city walls, except in pleas of exterior tenements not belonging to the Hundred of the city. Citizens were to be cleared of murder within the city bounds. No citizen would engage in duel on any appeal brought against him, but would clear himself by the oaths of forty legal men of the city. Nobody was to take a hostel within the walls by the assize or livery of the marshals against the will of the citizens. And the citizens were to be free from toll, lastage, passage, and pondage, and from all other customs throughout all the king's land and dominions.

4. John Fitzjohn held land at Glyn in manor of Shanid

   Glin · town · Limerick · 1298–1369

   John Fitzjohn held half a tuath of land at Glancorby (Glyn) in the manor of Shanid in 1298. Thomas Fitzjohn of the Glyn was appointed keeper of the peace in 1346 and later captured with the Earl of Desmond at Monasternenagh in 1369.

   Read the passage

   The first of the famUy that occurs in history is John Fitzjohn, who held half a tuath of land at Glancorby (Glyn) in the manor of Shanid in 1298, as we have already seen. The next reference to the family occurs in 1346, 1 when Thomas Fitzjohn of the Glyn and John Fitzdavid were appointed keepers of the peace in parts of O’Conyl (ConneUoe) in the county of Limerick, with power to assess and to array men for the defence of the marches, levying for every man at arms 12 i., for every hobeUar 6 d., and for every footman 2 d. per day. He is evidently the same Thomas Fitzjohn that was captured with the Earl of Desmond at Monasternenagh by O’Brien in 1369, and styled by the annahst Sir Thomas Fitzjohn. In the meantime he may have been raised to the dignity of a knight by one of the viceroys, or by the Earl of Desmond, as he appears to be one of the chief vassals and most strenuous supporters of the latter, and had a splendid opportunity in those troubled times of winning such an honour from his master. This is further confirmed by the foUowing entry in the Annals of the Four

   * Patent Roll , 20th of Edward III, dated Kilmallock.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 182

5. Kilmallock Dominican friary granted to town in 1594

   Kilmallock · townland · Limerick · 1594

   After the dissolution the monastery was leased by the Crown to James Earl of Desmond. In 1594 it was granted to John Miagh, Sovereign, the brethren and commonalty of Kilmallock for ever in free soccage at an annual rent of 35 shillings and 8 pence Irish money.

   Read the passage

   1340. A Provincial Chapter was held here. After the dissolution, this monastery was leased by the Crown to James Earl of Desmond, and in 1594 it was granted to John Miagh, Sovereign, the brethren and commonalty of Kilmallock for ever in free soccage at the annual rent of 35 shillings and 8 pence Irish money.

   The ruins of this beautiful and extensive Priory are situated on the right bank of the Loobagh, to the north of the town. It was subdivided into a church and

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 274

6. Lawsuit over Glenogra lands between Maurice of London and abbey

   Glenogra · townland · Limerick · 1229–1234

   Around 1229, Maurice of London brought a protracted lawsuit against Monasteranenagh concerning two knights' fees in Glenogra. The dispute was referred to the Cistercian Chapter after initially being set for the King's Court in Limerick in 1234.

   Read the passage

   1229.1 A few years later, a protracted lawsuit commenced between Maurice of London, as plaintiff, and the monastery, touching two knights’ fees in Glenogra.

   In 1234, it was to be tried at the King’s Court in Limerick, but the abbot obtained a regpite as the dispute was referred to the Cistercian Chapter ; and here the lands are referred to as Ballihoder, Enaghculy, Culether, Kalmarkan, and Granginhava.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 265

7. Limerick fortifications repair grant 1390

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1390

   In 1390, the issues and profits of the fee farm, cocket, and the lax weir were granted to the citizens of Limerick for eight years to repair the city's fortifications, as it was situated on the frontiers of the king's Irish enemies.

   Read the passage

   1390.* The issues and profits of the fee farm, cocket, and the lax weir were granted to the citizens for eight years to repair the fortifications of the city, as it was situated on the frontiers of the king’s Irish enemies.

   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

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 186

8. Margaret Budstone and the chapel of St. Mary Magdalen

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1401–1642

   Margaret Budstone (or Buston), daughter of John Budstone and wife of Peter Arthur, gave her son William two monuments bearing the name Budstone and a share in the chapel representing St. Mary Magdalen. Dr. Arthur in 1642 composed an inscription for the chapel of St. Mary Magdalen, patroness of the Guild of Barber Surgeons, Limerick.

   Read the passage

   His daughter, Margaret Budstone or Buston, who was married to Peter Arthur, gave to her son William “ two monuments bearing the name Budstone, and a just share in the chapel which represents Magdalene, and Dr. Arthur in 1642 composed an inscription to be put up in the chapel of St. Mary Magdalen ” (Patroness of the Guild of Barber Surgeons, Limerick).

   There is a sedilia in the south transept having John Budstone’ s name engraved upon it. This name is now extinct in the city, but I remember meeting a family of the name Buston in Coolcappa parish.

   Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 299

   As the companion tells it

   In Limerick, there was a chapel of St. Mary Magdalen, patroness of the Guild of Barber Surgeons. Margaret Budstone, daughter of John and wife of Peter Arthur, gave her son William two monuments bearing the name Budstone, and a just share in that chapel. Dr. Arthur composed an inscription for it in 1642. In the south transept there is a sedilia with John Budstone's name engraved upon it. The name is now extinct in the city, but the author once met a family of the name Buston in Coolcappa parish.

9. Marianus O'Hickey built refectory then joined Order

   Adare · townland · Limerick · 1464–1500

   Marianus O'Hickey erected the refectory and wooden panellings on the north side of the choir at the Franciscan Convent of Adare. He later entered the Franciscan Order and died in this convent, making him a notable figure associated with the site.

   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

10. McDonnell of Glin commissioned for Scattery mission

    Glin · town · Limerick · 1801

    Bishop Dr. Young wrote to Rev. Mr. McDonnell of Glin on 15 December 1801, commissioning him to go to Scattery Island and order the inhabitants to acknowledge the jurisdiction of Rev. M. Sullivan, threatening excommunication for those who continued to appeal to the Kilrush clergy.

    Read the passage

    Received this 26th or twelve days after it was written Wrote the same day to Rev. Mr. Considin that I exonerated him from the care of the island which letter was sent to the post and the expenses of postage along with it. Wrote the same day also to Dr. McM. [Dr. MacMahon, Bishop of Killaloe] requesting he would inform Rev. M. C. of Kilrush that Scattery made a part of the diocese of Limerick which Dr. McM. postponed doing. Wrote to Rev. Mr. McDonnell of Glin on the 15th December, commissioning him to go to the island in my name, to order the inhabitants to acknowledge the jurisdiction of the Rev Mr. Sullivan, and not to apply to any other especially the Kilrush clergy under pain of excommunication to be incurred ipso facto . Desired Mr. McDonnell would inform me of the success of his mission.

    Rev. Mr. McDonnell’s reply : —

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 320

11. Mugron O'Morgair dies at Mungret Abbey

    Mungret · town · Limerick · 1102

    On 5th October 1102, the blessed Mugron O'Morgair, principal professor of Divinity of Armagh and of all the West of Europe, died at Mungret Abbey. He was the father of Malachy, Archbishop of Armagh.

    Read the passage

    a.d. 1102. On the 5th of October, died, at this Abbey, the blessed Mugron O’Morgair, principal professor of Divinity of Armagh, and of all the West of Europe. He was father of Malachy, Archbishop of Armagh.

    a.d. 1107. Mungret plundered by Murtagh O'Brien. a.d. 1134. The Chronicon Scotorum says a shower of hailstones fell which destroyed everything on which it fell from Mungret to Limerick ; each of them was the size of an apple. a.d. 1837. An old Irish bell was dug up at Loughmore

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 35

12. Nicholas Thomas Arthur, Limerick merchant, captured by pirates, 1428

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1428–1430

    Nicholas Thomas Arthur, a leading Limerick merchant born around the early fifteenth century, exported horses, hounds, falcons, scarlet mantles, furs, and polished marble to English nobles. In June 1428, sailing from Limerick toward England, he was captured by pirates subject to the Duke of Amoric, taken to St. Malo, and held captive for two years until ransomed for 400 marcs.

    Read the passage

    In June, 1428, he sailed from Limerick on board

    1 See Lenihan’s History of Limerick.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 252

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick. In June 1428, Nicholas Thomas Arthur, a leading merchant here, sailed from this city toward England with horses, hounds, falcons, scarlet mantles, furs, and polished marble for English nobles. Pirates subject to the Duke of Amoric took him to St. Malo and held him two years before he was ransomed for 400 marcs.

13. Royal land grant of Dromin to the bishopric

    Dromin · townland · Limerick

    The king granted Drunnannolub (Dromin) to Edmund's predecessor, with the bishop receiving ten marks in exchange for the land. The grant was not punctually paid, requiring the king to write to the Justiciary to hasten payment of arrears.

    Read the passage

    Drunnannolub (Dromin), given by the king to Edmund’s predecessor, and ten marks which the bishop was wont to receive in exchange for that land.

    The above grant was not punctually paid, and the king had to write to the Justiciary to hasten the payment of the arrears to the bishop. There is another mandate, dated the day after, directing that Edmund should receive ten liberates of land within or without the cantred of Limerick, in lieu of the annuity of ten pounds payable at the king’s exchequer. The land was granted in the division called O’Mayl, which was situated near Mungret, and the name is given as an alias for Ballyclogh,1 so that it lay in that direction. Edmund; with the consent of the chapter, granted this new acquisition with its villeins, to John St. John. There is also extant a record of an order being made to the treasury to give Edmund a loan of five marks. He died towards the end of a.d. 1222, as the see was vacant in March a.d. 1223.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 107

14. Sir John Darcy granted manors of Adare, Croom, Estgrene

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1330

    Around 1330, the widow of Thomas, second Earl of Kildare, married Sir John Darcy, who received a Crown grant of the manors of Adare, Croom, and Estgrene in County Limerick during the minority of the heir, Maurice.

    Read the passage

    When the house of Desmond became ascendant after the Bruce invasion, owing to its active and able representatives, the other families left the country or sunk into the rank of freeholders or vassals to the Earls of Desmond, as the scramble for the spoils of anarchy meant the survival of the fittest. The Kildare family of the Geraldines, though residing in the vicinity of Dublin, paid close attention to their Limerick property* Thomas, the second earl of that noble house, a prudent and wise man, died in 1329. The following year his widow married Sir John Darcy, who got a grant from the Crown of the manors of Adare, Croom, Estgrene, in the county of Limerick, during the minority of Maurice the heir. About this time an inquisition was taken regarding the manor of Adare and neighbouring lands.1

    1 See Memorials of Adare .

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 181

15. Stephen de Valle appointed to canonery of Dysert

    Dysert · townland · Limerick · 1357

    In 1357, Stephen de Valle (Wall) was appointed to the canonery of Dysert, prior to his elevation as bishop. He later became dean on the death of Thomas de Worlle or Berkele.

    Read the passage

    The Pope ordered an inquiry to be made into the matter, with the result that Stephen was appointed bishop, and the spiritualities and temporalities of the diocese conferred upon him. In 1357 he was appointed to the canonery of Dysert, and on the death of Thomas de Worlle or Berkele, was appointed dean as we have already seen. During his time as bishop there are some Papal returns extant, which throw some light in filling the vacancies in the diocese.

    1360. When1 2 Stephen was appointed bishop, Henry White was made dean, but having died the same year, Ade White was advanced to the office.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 161

16. St. Ita's austerities and miracles at Killeedy

    Killeedy · parish · Limerick

    St. Ita practised extreme austerities at her monastery, often fasting for four days. She refused gifts of silver, considering worldly wealth corrupting, and was credited with gifts of prophecy and knowledge of distant events.

    Read the passage

    Ita to accept, but she refused. While speaking to the man she happened to touch the money, and at once called for water to wash the hand that was soiled by its contact with corruptible silver.

    She practised great austerities, often passing four days without food. Cumin of Down says : —

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 43

17. St. Lawrence's Church, Limerick, presentation by corporation

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The parish church of St. Lawrence the Martyr in Limerick had its presentation belonging to the corporation of the mayor and aldermen. Its festival was celebrated on the 10th of August with an octave.

    Read the passage

    The presentation belongs to the corporation of the mayor and aldermen. It pays . . . . . . . . . . 16

    The parish church of St. Patrick, Bishop and Confessor, and Patron of all Ireland, whose festival is celebrated on the 17th day of March: the church is entirely destroyed. It belongs to the treasurer, and the tithes of all the mills of Limerick and Singland belong to it, . . . . . . 76

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 358

    As the companion tells it

    Limerick holds the parish church of St. Lawrence the Martyr. The right of presentation belonged to the corporation of the mayor and aldermen. Its festival was celebrated on the 10th of August, with an octave.

18. St. Senan founds monastery at Iniscarra on the Lee

    near Iniscarra · street · Waterford

    On his return to Ireland, St. Senan landed at the great island in Cork harbour and proceeded to Iniscarra on the river Lee, where he founded a monastery and placed one of his disciples over it.

    Read the passage

    On his return to Ireland he landed at the great island in Cork harbour, proceeded thence to Iniscarra on the river Lee, where he founded a monastery, and placed one of his disciples over this new foundation, leaving himself free to continue his missionary labours elsewhere.

    We next find him settled in an island on the Shannon, called Inisluinghe, where he built a church. While here two daughters of Brendan, chieftain of Hy Fidhgente* came to him, and consecrated themselves to God by religious vows. They are styled the first fruits of the Eoghanachts of Gabhra that he consecrated to the service of God. After their religious profession he bestowed great care in properly instructing them in monastic discipline. He then removed to another island, supposed to be Deer Island at the mouth of the Fergus, where he established a religious community.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 38

19. Thomas Legger's annulled appointment to Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1456

    In 1456, Pope Calixtus III appointed the Augustinian friar Thomas Legger as Bishop of Limerick based on false reports of the previous bishop's death. This appointment was subsequently annulled.

    Read the passage

    In 1456 news reached Rome that John was dead, and acting on the report Calixtus III appointed Thomas Legger, an Augustinian friar, Bishop of Limerick, an appointment which was soon after annulled, as it

    Digitized by boogie

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 231

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, in 1456 news reached Rome that John was dead. Acting on the report, Calixtus III appointed Thomas Legger, an Augustinian friar, Bishop of Limerick. The appointment was soon after annulled.

20. Church of Crecora dedicated to SS. Peter and Paul

    Crecora · parish · Limerick

    The church of Crecora belonged to the chapter and dean of Limerick Cathedral, granted by John Cogan and later William de Wess. A portion of the old building still exists and was dedicated to SS. Peter and Paul on 29th June.

    Read the passage

    (The church of Crecora belongs to the chapter and dean.) I take that to be the meaning of Communitas from the fact that John Cogan,2 and later William dc Wess, granted this church to them. A portion of the old building still exists. It was dedicated to SS. Peter and Paul, 29th June.

    The following churches are not mentioned in this list, but are in one drawn up in the year 1685 by Rev. Jasper White,3 pastor of St. John’s, which he found in tom rolls among the papers of his brother, Edmond White, Canon of Ardcanny, written with his own hand

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 197

21. Corcomohid church in Castletown Conyers demesne

    Castletown · townland · Limerick

    The ruins of Corcomohid old church are situated in the demesne of Castletown Conyers and were dedicated to the Purification of the Blessed Virgin on 2nd February. It measured about 120 feet by 29 feet 9 inches internally and is still in fair preservation.

    Read the passage

    (The church of Corcomohid, a rectory belonging to the cathedral church, and presents the vicar. It has two chapels, Dromcollogher and Moyatha, in which there ought to be officiating chaplains.) The ruins of the old church are situated in the demesne of Castletown Conyers, and was dedicated to the Purification of the Blessed Virgin, 2nd February. It was about one hundred and twenty feet by twenty-nine feet nine inches, internally, and is still in a fair state of preservatior.

    Dromcollogher (see 1201 list).

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 210

22. Cormac MacCullenan bequeaths gold and vestment to Mungret

    Mungret · town · Limerick · 903

    In 903, Cormac MacCullenan, Archbishop of Cashel and King of Munster, bequeathed to Mungret Abbey three ounces of gold, an embroidered vestment, and his blessing in his last will.

    Read the passage

    a.d. 762. Ailill, son of Creevaghan, Abbot of Mungret, died. a.d. 820. Mungret destroyed and plundered by the Danes. a.d. 834. Mungret plundered by the Danes. a.d. 840. Again burned and wasted by the Danes. a.d. 843. Again burned and wasted by the Danes. a.d. 903. Cormac MacCullenan, Archbishop of Cashel and King of Munster, did by his last will bequeath to the Abbey three ounces of gold, an embroidered vestment, and his blessing.

    a.d. 909. Mulcashel Abbot, died.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 35

23. Earl James murdered at Rathkeale castle in 1489

    Rathkeale · town · Limerick · 1489

    James, ninth Earl of Desmond, was cruelly murdered in his castle at Rathkeale by John MacGibuin (Fitzgibbon), called the stammerer, from Mahonagh, reportedly through treachery and possibly at the instigation of the earl's brother John.

    Read the passage

    1489. After enjoying riches and honours for twenty years, he was cruelly murdered in his castle of Rathkeale,1 by John MacGibuin Fitzgibbon), the

    stammerer, from Magh Tamnach (i.e. Mahonagh), through treachery and treason, as some say, at the insti-

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 260

24. Earl James of Desmond death and burial traditions

    Newcastle · town · Limerick · 1462

    James, Earl of Desmond, is reported by Lodge to have died at Mocolope (Newcastle West) in 1462 and buried at Youghal, but the Dominican calendar of Limerick claims he was buried in their church and regarded as their second founder.

    Read the passage

    James, after retiring from public life, spent the evening of his days in peace and happiness on his estates. Lodge states that he died at Mocolope in the year 1462. and was laid to rest at Youghal. According to the ancient calendar of the Dominicans of Limerick, he was buried in their church and the Friars were bound to have an anniversary Mass for the repose of his soul, as they regarded him as their second founder.1 2 The O’Clery Pedigree states that he died at Caislen Nua O’Conaill, Newcastle West of Hyconaill, and was buried in Tralee. His son Thomas succeeded to the title and honours of the family, and was, like all his family, a strong supporter of the house of York. He received many favours from Edward IV, a scion of that house.

    When Tiptoft, Earl of Worcester, was sent to Ireland as Justiciary, he held a Parliament at Drogheda in 1467, at which an Act was passed attainting the Earls of Desmond, Kildare, and Edmund Plunket, for their alliances, fosterage, and alterage with the king’s Irish enemy.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 259

25. Effin church dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary

    Effin · townland · Limerick

    A part of Effin church is still standing and was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The vicar was in the presentation of Mr. De Rochefort, together with the chapel of Kylbygll.

    Read the passage

    and hath a vicar in the presentation of Mr. De Rochefort* Proxy thereof together with the chapel of Kylbygll.) (See Bishop Gerald’s episcopacy with regard to the foundation of this prebend.) A part of Effin church is still standing, and was dedicated to the B.V.M. Kylbygyll is variously written Kylbygill, Kylbegly, and Kylbigly. It was formerly a separate benefice. The old church was situated in the townland of Brickfield, but now no vestige of it remains. The following letter from Petrie to O’Donovan has reference to this church : —

    November $rd, 1835.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 199

26. Eugene Ofaelan's appointment to Rathronan church

    Rathronan · parish · Limerick · 1470

    In 1470, Eugene Ofaelan bound himself to the Apostolic Chamber for the first fruits of the parochial church of Rathronan in the diocese of Limerick, which was to be united to the priorship of the Hospital of St. Mary and St. Edward.

    Read the passage

    1470. Eugene Offaelan (O’Phelan), cleric of the diocese of Cloyne (commendarius prioratus) of the Hospital of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Edward Martyr, near the bridge, Limerick, Order of St. Augustine, bound himself to the Apostolic Chamber for the first fruits of the parochial church of Rathranan (Rathronan), Limerick diocese, value twelve marcs, to be united to the said priorship of said Eugene, vacant by the death of William Mackosdeallydo outside the Roman Curia, and a mandate for uniting them to be given at Rome. He promises to pay the first fruits for the said parochial church and Priorship (united) six months after said union.

    1475. Philip Yronayn, Bachelor of Decrees, Limerick diocese, as principal and private person bound himself

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 291

27. Hospitallers' spittle lands at Adare linked to Aney preceptory

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1215–1226

    The Hospitallers had no house in the Diocese of Limerick, but spittle lands mentioned in Adare and other places belonged to their house of Aney. This preceptory was founded by Geoffrey de Marisco between 1215 and 1226, who as lord of the manor probably endowed it with these Adare lands.

    Read the passage

    The Hospitallers, or Knights of St. John, had no house in the Diocese of Limerick, but the spittle land mentioned in Adare and other places belonged to the Hospitallers’ house of Aney, which was founded by ■Geoffrey de Marisco (1215-1226), and probably endowed by him with these lands in Adare, etc., as he was lord of that manor as early as 1226.

    The following grant 1 made to Thomas Browne, Esq., 16th of May, second year James I, clears up the point : — “The entire Manor, Lordship, and preceptory or Hospital of Anye, with all its castles, forts, lands, and hereditaments in Ayne, Ballinclogh, Lymericke, Kilmallock, Adare, Croghe alias Croghee, Burgage Asketton, Rath-

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 281

28. Indulgences granted for visiting cathedral of St. Senan, Iniscathay (1363)

    Scattery Island · townland · Clare · 1363

    Thomas petitioned the Holy See and received a relaxation of seven years and seven qudragena of enjoined penance for penitents who visit the cathedral on major feast days, including those of St. Senan to whom the church is dedicated, and St. Brendan. This grant reveals the continuing devotional significance of the island's church.

    Read the passage

    (1) For a relaxation of seven years and seven quadragena of enjoined penance to penitents who visit the cathedral on the seven feast days of our Lord, and on the five feasts of the B.V. Mary, those of Corpus Christi, St. Michael, St. John the Baptist, the Apostles Peter and Paul, All Saints, St. Patrick, and St. Senan to whom the church is dedicated, and St. Brendan and during their octaves. Granted for a year and a quadragena.

    (2) Licence to create two notaries. Granted.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 306

29. Inquisitions at Tullabracky, 1440 and 1447

    Tullabracky · townland · Limerick · 1440–1447

    Two inquisitions were held at the bishop's court at Tullabracky. The first in 1440, before Tady O'Cathyl, seneschal of the bishop, concerned unoccupied lands belonging to the bishop's property. The second in 1447, presided over by the bishop himself, established that tenants of Tullabrackey would do work by their horses and cattle for the Bishop of Limerick as they did for themselves.

    Read the passage

    by provision of Martin V. Very little is known concerning the early years of his episcopate. A record of two inquisitions that were held at his court at Tullabracy is still extant. The first was held in the year 1440, 1 before Tady O’Cathyl, seneschal of the bishop, with the following jury : Sehan May on, Gog Obochane, Donaldus

    , Sehan Pharell, Gyllepatrick O’ Griff a, Thomas

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 226

30. Kildare represented Limerick in Edward III's parliament

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1376

    A member of the Kildare family served as parliamentary representative for both the county and city of Limerick in the parliament of Edward III held at Westminster in 1376. This is noted in connection with Thomas Kildare, who appears multiple times in the Limerick chief magistrate rolls.

    Read the passage

    1 One of this name (Kildare) was representative for the county and city of Limerick in the parliament of Edward III., a.d. 1376, at Westminster.

    [Between the Sexten and Arthur and the White MSS. roll there is much discrepancy from 1357 to 1483, which I have endeavoured as far as possible to adjust by a careful comparison of the rolls. In reading these confusea accounts of the chief magistrates of Limerick, we are reminded of what Livy says of those of Rome : “ Tanti impiicant errores temporum et nominum ut nec qui consules fucrint secundum quosdam ordinares, nec,” etc. “80 many mistakes about persons and dates embarrass one, that you can neither tell who were consuls after others, nor,” etc. However, there is nearly a perfect agreement in all the MSS. rolls from 1483 down to 1636 and 1665, when S. and A. end. Arthur would appear to have had access to Selden's roll, which he margins sometimes with E. S. He quotes ancient MS8. for his roll. Sir James Ware, family monuments and records, etc., etc.]

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 369

31. King John's charter granted to Limerick at Killaloe

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1197

    While residing at Killaloe in 1197, John as Earl of Morton granted a charter to the citizens of Limerick conferring great privileges, including liberties and free customs matching those of Dublin.

    Read the passage

    John, as Earl of Morton, took a great interest in the welfare of the city. While residing at Killaloe, in the year 1197, he granted a charter to it which conferred great privileges on the citizens.2

    1 See Geraldus Camb., p. 284-5.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 80

32. Land at O'Mayl or Ballyclogh near Mungret granted to bishop

    Ballyclogh · townland · Limerick

    The king directed that Edmund should receive ten liberates of land in the division called O'Mayl, situated near Mungret, which was an alias for Ballyclogh. Edmund, with the consent of the chapter, granted this acquisition with its villeins to John St. John.

    Read the passage

    The above grant was not punctually paid, and the king had to write to the Justiciary to hasten the payment of the arrears to the bishop. There is another mandate, dated the day after, directing that Edmund should receive ten liberates of land within or without the cantred of Limerick, in lieu of the annuity of ten pounds payable at the king’s exchequer. The land was granted in the division called O’Mayl, which was situated near Mungret, and the name is given as an alias for Ballyclogh,1 so that it lay in that direction. Edmund; with the consent of the chapter, granted this new acquisition with its villeins, to John St. John. There is also extant a record of an order being made to the treasury to give Edmund a loan of five marks. He died towards the end of a.d. 1222, as the see was vacant in March a.d. 1223.

    By order of the king, the temporalities were granted during vacancy, to the Prior of Athassel, for which he was to be accountable to the Exchequer.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 107

33. Limerick Castle ordered repaired in 1312

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1312

    In 1312, an order was made to survey and repair the castle of Limerick, situated in the dangerous march between English and Irish. Justiciary John Wogan reported it was threatened with ruin and broken on all sides.

    Read the passage

    Accordingly in a.d. 1312,1 an order was made to survey the castle of Limerick which was situated in the dangerous march between the English and Irish. It was ordered to be put in repair, and the expenses to be defrayed out of the issues of the county. A report having been made to the king and council by John Wogan, justiciary of Ireland, that the castle was so threatened with ruin, and fallen down and broken on all sides, that damage and peril may arise, if it were not speedily repaired, and if turrets and defensive crenelles were not there constructed.

    It would appear2 that during these years malefactors, robbers, and disturbers of the king’s peace frequently invaded the city, assassinated, wounded, and robbed the citizens of their property within the liberty* and burned the suburbs. As a remedy against this evil, they were allowed to seize the chatties of these maler factors, whether English or Irish, as well within as without the liberties, and to retain the goods so seized until full satisfaction was made by the offenders for

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 184

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick now. In 1312, an order was made to survey the castle of Limerick, which stood in the dangerous march between the English and the Irish. It was ordered to be put in repair, with the expenses to be defrayed out of the issues of the county. John Wogan, justiciary of Ireland, made a report to the king and council. He said the castle was so threatened with ruin, and fallen down and broken on all sides, that damage and peril may arise if it were not speedily repaired, and if turrets and defensive crenelles were not there constructed. During these years, malefactors, robbers, and disturbers of the king's peace frequently invaded the city. They assassinated, wounded, and robbed the citizens of their property within the liberty, and burned the suburbs. As a remedy against this evil, they were allowed to seize the chattels of these malefactors, whether English or Irish, as well within as without the liberties, and retain the goods so seized until full satisfaction was made.

34. Limerick sends orators to Henry VII

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1499

    In 1499, the city of Limerick sent David Roche and Richard Serjent as its orators to King Henry VII. A dispute subsequently arose between David Roche and his successor Philip Stackpol regarding the succession to the mayoralty.

    Read the passage

    The city sent this David and Richard Serjent, its orators, to Henry VII. A violent contention arose between him and his successor, Philip Stackpol,. relative to the succession to the mayoralty.— A. MSS.

    1500 Philip Stackpol,

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 371

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries a fragment from 1499. That year Limerick sent David Roche and Richard Serjent as its orators to King Henry VII. Afterward, a violent contention arose between David and his successor, Philip Stackpol, over the succession to the mayoralty.

35. Manor of Glenogra: demesne lands and water mill

    Glenogra · townland · Limerick

    The manor of Glenogra contained 300 acres of arable land valued at 8d. per acre, 14 acres of meadow, pasture for oxen and cows, a water mill valued at 30s., gardens, six pools with fishery worth 7s. 6d., and turbary valued at 4s.

    Read the passage

    The jury found that there was in demesne in this manor, 300 acres of arable land, and valued each acre at 8d. per acre ; 14 acres of meadow at 4 d. per acre ; a pasture within the demesne for oxen and cows ; another at le Calgauthe, the herbage of which is valued at 16s. A small grove, from which the lord can obtain nothing except brambles and rods for ploughs, and value for nothing ; a carucate of land at Dromnecarry (Drominycarra) partly arable and partly meadow, together with the neighbouring pool, value £4 per year ; 3 carucates of land at le Crethan (Crean), held by Betagii, and valued

    Digitized by boogie

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 135

36. Manor of Newcastle West inquisition, 1298

    Newcastle · town · Limerick · 1298

    An inquisition held in 1298 concerning the manor of Novo Castro (Newcastle West) valued the sergeancy or receivership at 6s. 8d., indicating it was a rather extensive district. This provides early documentary evidence for Newcastle West's administrative importance.

    Read the passage

    In an inquisition, held in a.d. 1298, relative to the manor of Novo Castro (Newcastle West), the sergeancy or receivership was valued at 6s. 8d., which shows that it was a rather extensive district.2

    In a document called the •* Rental of Connelloe,” 3 which dates back to the year 1452, one of the divisions is styled Corkoythe ; and the townlands mentioned under that heading furnish the first definite clue to the real identification and extent of the ancient Corcoide. In another MS.4 called “ Peyton’s Survey,” which was made in the year 1586, a still more definite description of it is given, under the title Toghe Gortcoythe, a very corrupted form of the word. The names of the townlands at the present day are identical with those mentioned in

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 7

37. Mungret parochial church ruins described

    Mungret · town · Limerick · 1615

    The parochial church of Mungret, built after the Norman arrival, is the most imposing ruin at the site. It is a large Gothic building about 113 feet long, divided into nave and chancel, with a ruined residence at the west end, a small tower to the north, and an east gable supported by stepped buttresses. The dean of the diocese served as rector.

    Read the passage

    (The church of Mungret, the dean is rector.) The old Celtic churches of Mungret have already been described. This was the parochial church and built after the coming of the Normans, and is the most imposing ruin. It is a large Gothic building, measuring about 113 feet in length, and is divided into a nave and chancel. At the west end there is the ruins of a residence, and a small tower to the north of it. The east gable, which is in a fair state of preservation, is supported by large stepped buttresses. In 1615 the chancel was in a good state of repair.

    Ecclesia de Catherbathelaich.1

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 193

38. Mungret repeatedly plundered by the Danes

    Mungret · town · Limerick · 820–843

    The monastery at Mungret was destroyed and plundered by the Danes multiple times in the ninth century, with recorded attacks in 820, 834, 840, and 843, when it was again burned and wasted.

    Read the passage

    a.d. 762. Ailill, son of Creevaghan, Abbot of Mungret, died. a.d. 820. Mungret destroyed and plundered by the Danes. a.d. 834. Mungret plundered by the Danes. a.d. 840. Again burned and wasted by the Danes. a.d. 843. Again burned and wasted by the Danes. a.d. 903. Cormac MacCullenan, Archbishop of Cashel and King of Munster, did by his last will bequeath to the Abbey three ounces of gold, an embroidered vestment, and his blessing.

    a.d. 909. Mulcashel Abbot, died.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 35

39. O'Brien submits to Henry at Cashel

    Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1172

    At Cashel, O'Brien met Henry II and sued for peace, which was granted. O'Brien became tributary to the king and swore fealty, promising faithfully to observe it.

    Read the passage

    At Cashel Henry was met by O’Brien, who sued for peace, which was willingly granted. He also became tributary to the king, and swore fealty which he promised faithfully to observe. It is said Henry then appointed his own governors and officers in the cities of Limerick and Cork. The leading kings and chiefs, excepting those of Ulster, not long afterwards made a kind of submission to the English monarch.

    The clergy in consequence of the action of their temporal lords were bound to follow suit, and met the king at Cashel, where a synod was held. After six months’ stay in the country, Henry returned to England, leaving behind a host of greedy adventurers, who at once set about aggrandizing themselves at the expense of the natives, instead of settling down quietly in the enjoyment of their already acquired estates.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Cashel, in 1172 this is where Henry II was met by O'Brien, who sued for peace, which was willingly granted. O'Brien became tributary to the king and swore fealty, promising faithfully to observe it. Henry then appointed his own governors and officers in the cities of Limerick and Cork. The leading kings and chiefs, excepting those of Ulster, not long afterwards made a kind of submission to the English monarch. The clergy, in consequence of the action of their temporal lords, were bound to follow suit, and met the king at Cashel, where a synod was held. After six months' stay in the country, Henry returned to England, leaving behind a host of greedy adventurers, who at once set about aggrandizing themselves at the expense of the natives, instead of settling down quietly in the enjoyment of their already acquired estates.

40. St. Mary's Priory lands at South Priorsland and Dominican Church

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    St. Mary's Priory held five carucates on the south side of the river, now called South Priorsland, including the area about the Dominican Church and parts of St. Michael's parish. These possessions passed to Lord Limerick as a descendant of Sexton who inherited the religious house's lands.

    Read the passage

    St. Mary’s Priory held five carucates at this side of the river, now called South Priorsland, and includes that part of the city about the Dominican Church and whatever other part of St. Michael’s parish is held by Lord Limerick, who, as a descendant of Sexton, inherited the possessions of this religious house.

    The city, under the new order of things, greatly increased in population, and its limits had to be extended. The fortifications had also to be strengthened, if it were still to be of use as a stronghold in the heart of a country whose inhabitants were Irish, and ever ready, when opportunity offered, to shake off the yoke of the stranger.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 123

41. St. Munchin's Church, patron saint of Limerick city

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The parish church of St. Munchin, patron saint of the whole city of Limerick, whose festival was celebrated on the 2nd of January. It was a prebend or canonry, with the vicar and prebend each receiving half the fruits.

    Read the passage

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

    It is a prebend or canonry. The vicar has one half of the fruits, and the prebend the other half. It pays

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 357

42. St. Senan establishes community on Deer Island, mouth of the Fergus

    Inishmore or Deer Island · townland · Clare

    After leaving Inisluinghe, Senan removed to another island, supposed to be Deer Island at the mouth of the Fergus, where he established a religious community before finally selecting Scattery Island as his permanent home.

    Read the passage

    We next find him settled in an island on the Shannon, called Inisluinghe, where he built a church. While here two daughters of Brendan, chieftain of Hy Fidhgente* came to him, and consecrated themselves to God by religious vows. They are styled the first fruits of the Eoghanachts of Gabhra that he consecrated to the service of God. After their religious profession he bestowed great care in properly instructing them in monastic discipline. He then removed to another island, supposed to be Deer Island at the mouth of the Fergus, where he established a religious community.

    After founding many such houses he finally selected Inis Cathaigh (Scattery Island) as a permanent home for the remaining years of his life.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 38

43. Turbaries at the manor of Reyns near Rathkeale

    near Reens · population centre · Limerick

    A manor called Reyns, possibly identical with Reens between Rathkeale and Newcastle, had three turbaries. The author suggests that cutting away the turf accounts for the low-lying land there that is constantly flooded in winter by the Deel.

    Read the passage

    keale and Newcastle. The most remarkable thing mentioned in connection with it is, that there were three turbaries there. If it is the same Reens as above, the cutting away of the turf would account for the low lying land which is constantly flooded during the winter by the Deel.

    The Manor of Rathgel (Rathkeale).

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick

44. Ui-Cairbre Aebhdha territory around Kilmallock and Coshma

    Kilmallock · townland · Limerick

    Cairbre Aebhdha gave his name to the territory of Ui-Cairbre Aebhdha, which comprised the barony of Coshma and the district around Kilmallock in County Limerick. This territorial naming links an early dynastic figure to a identifiable Limerick landscape.

    Read the passage

    This Cairbre Aebhdha gave name to Ui-Cairbre Aebhdha, a territory comprising the barony of Coshma, and the district around Kilmallock, in the county of Limerick. He had several sons, of whom the eldest was,

    X. Erc, who had two sons, Lonan and Kinfaela ; the former was chief of the Ui-Fidhgeinte, and contemporary with St. Patrick, whom he entertained (according to the Tripartite Life, published by Colgan), in the year 439, at his palace, situated on the summit of the hill of Kea, near the mountain of Cam-Feradhaigh. But it appears that Lonan afterwards quarrelled with Patrick, and refused to become his convert, for which reason the saint cursed him, and predicted that his race would become extinct, and that his principality would be transferred to the race of his brother.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 328

45. Uregare church and graveyard, dedicated to St. Margaret

    Uregare · townland · Limerick

    The old church of Uregare, dedicated to St. Margaret, has disappeared but its graveyard marks the spot. The name means 'the short ewe' according to Donovan. The neighbouring church of Wrygdy, once one of the Earl of Kildare's manors, stood near Ballygrinnane castle to the south.

    Read the passage

    (The church of Uregare and of Wrygdy, rector the prioress of Teagmolynd.) The old ruin has disappeared, but the graveyard marks the spot where it stood. Uregare = Tubhar gearra, the short ewe (Donovan). The church was dedicated to St. Margaret. Wrygdy seemed to be more important in the early part of the thirteenth century, as it was the name of one of the Earl of Kildare’s manors. The old church was near Ballygrinnane castle to the south.

    Ecclesia de Burgh , Rector ibidem Magister Hospitalis de

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 205

46. Widow of Fitzgibbon's extension to Adare convent sanctuary

    Adare · townland · Limerick

    The widow of Fitzgibbon added ten feet to the sanctuary of the Franciscan convent at Adare and directed a burial-place to be formed for herself beneath it. Many other pious benefactors also found graves within the convent precincts.

    Read the passage

    widow of Fitzgibbon, added ten feet to the sanctuary, under which she directed a burial-place to be formed for herself. The deaths of most of these pious benefactors are given, and many of them found a grave within the hallowed precincts of the convent.

    Mooney, when he visited Cork, had the pleasure of seeing some of the precious possessions of this convent* which were under the custody of Father Thomas Geraldine, and consisted of a ciborium for the Blessed Sacrament gilt with gold and of good workmanship ; a ' silver processional cross, and six or seven chalices. He also saw a list of the sacred vestments and was much surprised at 'the number ; but all these had perished under the decaying hand of time.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 280

47. Inquiry into Gilbert de Clare's age held at Cashel

    Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1302

    In 1302 the king ordered Gilbert de Clare to prove his age before the justiciary and chancellor. The inquiry was held at Cashel, with Maurice Rocheford acting as locum tenens for the justiciary and John Cantock for the chancellor.

    Read the passage

    1302. A few years afterwards, however, the king ordered him to prove his age before the justiciary and the chancellor. This enquiry was held at Cashel, Maurice Rocheford acting as locum tenens for the justiciary, and John Cantock for the chancellor.

    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

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 169

48. Bishop Brictius attends Synod of Cashel

    Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1172

    After Donald O'Brien's surrender to Henry, Brictius, Bishop of Limerick, attended the Synod of Cashel and promised to enforce in his diocese the disciplinary canons passed there. He later travelled to the General Council of Lateran with St. Laurence O'Toole.

    Read the passage

    Brictius, the Bishop of Limerick, after Donald’s surrender to Henry, went to the Synod of Cashel, and promised to put in force in his diocese the disciplinary canons that were passed at that synod. He also assisted at the General Council of Lateran. On his way he had to pass through England and take an oath that he with his companions would do nothing at that Council against the interests of the king. From the State Papers1 we learn that he travelled with St. Laurence O’Toole, Archbishop of Dublin, and that the king paid their passage.

    1188. It was during his reign that Hugh Beaghan, Bishop of Scattery, died, and then, with the help of the new powers, Brictius was able to put on a permanent basis the laws passed by Gillebert regarding the extent of his diocese. He was alive in 1194, as he is supposed to have received in that year a grant of land from Donald O’Brien The document is still extant, and runs as follows : —

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 79

49. De Burgo granted Castle Connell lands

    Castleconnell · town · Limerick · 1199

    King John granted William de Burgo the custody of Limerick city and a portion of the country round Castle Connell. In 1199 he also received a grant of Ardpatrick with the residue of the cantred of Fontimel.

    Read the passage

    John granted De Burgo the custody of the city, a portion of the country round Castle Connell, and in 1199, he also received a grant of Ardpatrick, with the residue of the cantred of Fontimel. According to the Black Book of Limerick he was Sheriff of Munster. While at Limerick he won over to his side the sons of Donald O’Brien. With these new allies and the English of Munster he marched as far as Cork, where he spent a week plundering the Gaels and laying waste their lands

    About this time the O’Connors of Connaught began to quarrel amongst themselves. Taking advantage of this dispute De Burgo enforced his claim to the lands granted to him by King John in that country. The usurper at once complied with the demand in order to secure the help of such a powerful ally. De Burgo 1 then marched into Connaught, and after some stiff fighting placed his friend on the throne.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Castleconnell now. In 1199, King John granted William de Burgo the custody of Limerick city and a portion of the country round this town. That same year he also received a grant of Ardpatrick, with the residue of the cantred of Fontimel. The Black Book of Limerick says he was Sheriff of Munster. While at Limerick he won over to his side the sons of Donald O'Brien. With these new allies and the English of Munster he marched as far as Cork, where he spent a week plundering the Gaels and laying waste their lands. About this time the O'Connors of Connaught began to quarrel amongst themselves. Taking advantage of this, de Burgo enforced his claim to the lands granted by King John in that country. The usurper at once complied to secure such a powerful ally. De Burgo then marched into Connaught, and after some stiff fighting placed his friend on the throne.

50. Dolmen at Friarstown North with giant human bones

    Friarstown North · townland · Limerick

    A large stone 7 feet high supported by stones set on edge stands at Friarstown North. When the supporting stones were removed, human bones of an extraordinary size were found underneath the monument.

    Read the passage

    In Friarstown North, there is a large stone 7 feet high, 5 feet broad, and 1 foot thick, supported by stones set on edge, which being removed, human bones of an extraordinary size were found underneath the monument.

    At Kilpeacon, about a mile distant, there is also one of a similar kind.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 22

51. 1427 vicarage of Dunmoylan linked to Iniscathay chaplains

    Dunmoylan · townland · Limerick · 1427

    A reference in 1427 to a 'certain portion' in the church of Iniscathay and the perpetual vicarage of Dunmoylan appears to relate to the maintenance of one of the chaplains of the collegiate church.

    Read the passage

    The portionary were bound to actual residence in the collegiate church on the island, and as such were in the diocese of Limerick and subject to the bishop, and no one knew their position better than Cornelius O’Dea, who had been Archdeacon of Killaloe, before becoming Bishop of Limerick. As the Inquisition of 1604 states, they had to devote their time to religious duties, and were maintained no doubt by contributions of pious pilgrims visiting the island, also from some revenues derived from the Termon of Senan and the diocese of Limerick. The reference in 1427 to the “ certain portion ” in the church of Iniscathay and the perpetual vicarage of Dunmoylan looks like the maintenance of one of the chaplains. These good Fathers may be styled a community of Culdees, as similar bodies that resided at Clonmacnoise and Armagh were called and who maintained their existence to the Reformation.

    In the Inquisition of 1576 it is stated that the island was in the county of Limerick, and was granted to the Corporation of Limerick by Elizabeth. During the

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 317

52. Abbeyfeale Cistercian monastery founded by O'Briens

    Abbeyfeale · town · Limerick · 1188

    A Cistercian monastery at Abbeyfeale was founded by one of the O'Briens in 1188 and later became a cell to Monasteranenagh. Little is known of its history except vague references in the Fiants. Foundations of some buildings could still be traced in the early nineteenth century.

    Read the passage

    The Cistercians had another monastery in the diocese at Abbey feale, which was founded by one of the O’Briens in 1188. It afterwards became a cell to Monasteranenagh. There is nothing known about its history, except a few vague references to its possessions in the Fiants.

    The Abbey was situated where the present graveyard is, and as late as the beginning of last century, the foundations of some of the buildings could be traced.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 269

53. Askeaton church on the Deel with octagonal belfry

    Askeaton · townland · Limerick

    The church of Askeaton stands near the town on the east bank of the River Deel. It retains the remains of an old belfry, square below and octagonal above, with the east end of the chancel still standing.

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    (The church of Askeaton ; rector, the abbot of Keynesham, who presents the vicar, has the chapel of Orossa where a chaplain officiates.) The church of Askeaton is near the town on the east bank of the Deel, and has the remains of an old belfry still standing which is square below and octagonal above ; the east of the chancel is also standing.

    Ec. de Lismactire que est integralis et spectat ad presen - tacionem Lees de Garth.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 216

54. Askeaton tuath of unfree tribe Eas Geibhtne

    Askeaton · townland · Limerick · 1215

    The tuath of Eas Geibhtne (Askeaton) was considered one of the unfree tribes. After the Aitheach Tuatha rebellion they were dispersed through the free clans of Hy Conaill. It is one of the earliest places mentioned in Anglo-Norman documents, referenced in 1215.

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    This tuath was considered as one of the unfree tribes.3 After the Aitheach Tuatha rebellion they were dispersed through the free clans of Hy Conaill. It is one of the earliest places mentioned in Anglo-Norman documents.4

    1 See page 76.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 12

55. Ballingarry church dedicated to St. Evanjanus

    Ballingarry · town · Limerick

    A part of Ballingarry old church still remains, including a portion of the east gable and two round headed windows. It was dedicated to St. Evanjanus on August 1st.

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    Ballingarry church. — A part of this old church still remains, viz., a portion of the east gable and two round headed windows. It was dedicated to St. Evanjanus, August 1st. Senboth (old hut, now written Shanavoha) is situated in the townland of Granagh or Ballinleeny. The walls of the old ruin are nearly levelled with the ground.

    Kylmocho. — Kilmacow church is in the townland of the same name. It was dedicated to St. Colman, 29th October. It was fifty-eight feet long by eighteen feet three inches wide, and is considered a very old church. The greater part of the fabric is still standing.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 210

56. Battle of Drom-Damhghaire at Knocklong defeats Cormac Mac Art

    Knocklong · town · Limerick · 260

    Fiacha Muilleathan, King of Munster, met the invading Cormac Mac Art in a pitched battle at Drom-Damhghaire, now Knocklong in County Limerick. Cormac was defeated and obliged to make restitution for the injuries caused by his invasion of Fiacha's territory.

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    IV. Fiacha Muilleathan. He was declared King of Munster, in accordance with the will of his grandfather, on the death of his uncle, Cormac Cas, which occurred a.d. 260. His territory was invaded by Cormac Mac Art, the grandson of Con of the Hundred Battles ; but Fiacha met him in a pitched battle at Drom-Damhghaire, now Knocklong, in the present county of Limerick, where Cormac was defeated and obliged to make restitution for the injuries caused by this invasion. This Fiacha lived at Knockgraffon, near the Suir,

    . ruxnr.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 325

57. Bishop Donat granted canons use of his woods for fuel and timber

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Bishop Donat granted the cathedral canons the use of his woods for procuring fuel and timber for building purposes. This was part of the formal deed organizing the diocese, which was witnessed by multiple archbishops, bishops, and abbots.

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    of a year, to pay his debts. Donat also gave them the use of his woods for procuring fuel, and timber for building purposes.

    The deed from which the foregoing is taken was witnessed by the Archbishop of Cashel, the Bishops of Cork, Cloyne, Ross, Ardfert, Kilfenora, the Abbots of Manister, Suirey, and Furness, with other dignitaries of lesser importance.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 106

58. Cahernarry: ancient cairn over Feradhaigh's grave

    Cahernarry (Cripps) · townland · Limerick

    Cahernarry, now identified with the ancient Carn-Feradhaigh, is a well-known hill and parish about three miles southeast of Limerick city. On its summit remain vestiges of a large heap of stones, the ancient cairn raised over the grave of Feradhaigh, the site of many historical battles.

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    The situation of Knockea is to be determined from the position of Cam-Feradhaigh or Feradhaigh’s sepulchral mound, which was a well-known historical spot, and the scene of many a battle, as our annalists abundantly testify. There are many conjectures as to the locality where it lay. The most reliable of our antiquarians are of opinion that it was situated in the southeast of the county. But in the compound word Carn- Feradhaigh,1 the F is silent, and would be pronounced Carnary or Carnarrie , forms that occur in official documents down to the Cromwellian confiscations, when it is written Carnarrie and Cahernarry.2 The latter form of the word has prevailed to our own time, and obscured the origin of the name. Cahernarry, as it is now written, is a well-known hill and parish, about three miles southeast of the city. On its summit are the remains of a large heap of stones, evidently a vestige of the ancient earn that was raised over the grave of Feradhaigh. In the same parish, and about half a mile to the south, is the hill of Knockea, answering exactly to the description given in the Tripartite. St. Patrick after leaving Knockea, travelled towards the present city of Limerick, spending some time in the plain at Donaghmore, where he baptized and instructed the inhabitants, and laid the foundations of a church, from which the parish derives its name.

    1 In all compound words, whether the first word be an adjective or substantive, the initial of the second is aspirated, if of the aspirable class. The initials of all genitives, singular of all proper names of men and women are aspirated, except surnames of families. — O'Donovan’s Irish Grammar, p. 56. At p. 50 he says, F aspirated is silent in every situation.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 29

59. Cairbre son of Cleirichen slain treacherously

    Kenry · barony · Limerick · 1014

    Cairbre, son of Cleirichen, Lord of the Hy Fidhgente, was treacherously slain by Malcolm of Kenry in 1014. Cleirchen was the ancestor of the O'Cleireachains, anglicized Cleary and Clarke, names still extant in Co. Limerick.

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    1014. 1 Cairbre, son of Cleirichen, Lord of the Hy Fidhgente, was treacherously slain by Malcolm of Kenry. Cleirchen was the ancestor of the O’Cleireachains, anglicized Cleary and Clarke, names still extant in the Co. Limerick.

    1027. Donnchadh, son of Brian, led an army into Ossory, where he was defeated, and there were slain on that occasion the two sons of Cuilen, son of Conchobhar, Lord and tainist of Ui Conaill.

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 73

60. Canonry and prebend of Killeedy assigned to Thomas Naith

    Killeedy · parish · Limerick · 1389

    In 1389, the archdeacon received a mandate from the Holy See to appoint Thomas Naith of the Geraldines, a clerk of noble family, to the canonry and prebend of Killeedy, valued at 12 marks, which had been void so long by the marriage of Thomas O'Grady that it lapsed to the Pope.

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    1389.2 The archdeacon receives a mandate from the Holy See to appoint Thomas Naith, of the Geraldines, clerk of the diocese, and of noble family, to the canonry and prebend of Killeedy, value 12 marks, being so long void by the marriage of Thomas O’ Grady, that by the Statute of the Latern Council, they have lapsed to the Pope.

    1391.3 John Rede, D.C.L., was appointed to the •canonry and prebend of Donaghmore:

    Internet Archive TheDioceseOfLimerick, Chapter 164