Name: The Beauties of the Boyne, and its Tributary, the Blackwater
Author: William R. (William Robert) Wilde (1815–1876)

Portland's Foot Cross at Slane Bridge and Join Cavalry

Slane · townland · Meath · 1690

The foot soldiers under Lord Portland crossed the Boyne by the bridge of Slane, two miles from the Rossnaree ford, and then joined the English cavalry near a marsh or bog before a sufficient Irish force could be sent to oppose them.

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There is one point in the battle of the Boyne (Avhich we were the first to point out, in the earlier edition of this work), on which sufiicient stress has not been laid, although it Avould appear to have had a greater influence on the issue of the fight than historians are aware. The right wing of the Irish army was completely protected by Drogheda, the Boyne, and the sea ; its left towards Slane was unprotected ; and if this was once turned or outflanked, the road to Duleek must be occupied, Dublin would be cut off", and then the temporary refuge of the fortress of Drogheda afforded the only hope for the Irish army. This could not escape the notice of a skilful opposing general, neither was it unforeseen to some of the advisers of King James, although he himself does not appear to have paid sufficient attention to it. At break of day upon the morning of Tuesday, the 1st of July, which was a remarkably clear, hot day, William despatched 10,000 men under the younger Schomberg, Generals Douglas, Overkirk, and Lord Portland, to cross the river at the fords, near Slane, of the existence and passability of which he appears to have been well informed. Proceeding behind the hill, now included in the demesne of Townley Hall, and crossing the Mattock river at Monk-Newtown, they were concealed from the Irish until they appeared on the elevated banks near Knowth, above the ford of Kossnaree, where it would appear the cavalry crossed with scarcely any opposition, except from the regiment of SirNealO'Neale, who himself was killed in the skirmish. The foot under Portland passed round by the bridge of Slane, two miles farther off, but joined the English cavalry near a marsh or bog which stood between them and their opponents, and before a sufficient force could have been despatched by James to oppose them. Here then was an army, nearly half the size of that of King James, advancing upon the left wing of the
THE BATTLE OF ROSSNAREE. 253

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Slane, on the morning of Tuesday the 1st of July 1690, the foot soldiers under Lord Portland crossed the Boyne by the bridge of Slane. William had dispatched 10,000 men under the younger Schomberg, Generals Douglas, Overkirk, and Lord Portland to cross the river at the fords near Slane. He appears to have been well informed of their existence and passability. The right wing of the Irish army was completely protected by Drogheda, the Boyne, and the sea. But its left towards Slane was unprotected. If this left was turned or outflanked, the road to Duleek would be occupied, Dublin would be cut off, and the fortress of Drogheda would afford the only hope for the Irish army. This could not escape the notice of a skilful opposing general, and was not unforeseen by some of the advisers of King James, though he himself does not appear to have paid sufficient attention to it. Proceeding behind the hill now included in the demesne of Townley Hall, and crossing the Mattock river at Monk-Newtown, the force was concealed from the Irish until they appeared on the elevated banks near Knowth, above the ford of Rossnaree. The cavalry crossed there with scarcely any opposition, except from the regiment of Sir Neal O'Neale, who was killed in the skirmish. The foot under Portland passed round by the bridge of Slane, two miles farther off, and joined the English cavalry near a marsh or bog which stood between them and their opponents. This was done before a sufficient force could have been despatched by James to oppose them. Here was an army, nearly half the size of that of King James, advancing upon the left wing.

Rossnaree identified as principal shallow ford across the Boyne

Rossnaree · townland · Meath · 1690

The principal shallow crossing of the Boyne during the campaign was at Rossnaree, situated beneath the monuments of Knowth and New Grange, about three miles below Slane.

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After the Boyne passes the great monument of New Grange, it alters its course, turning towards the north, and, with various minor windings, forms a deep curve between that point and Drogheda, which is distant about five miles in a direct or bird line. Having reached Townley Hall, it again turns to the south-east, towards Drogheda, and thus completes the curve or elbow to which we have just alluded. Within this bend of the river, upon the right or southern bank, the ground rises by a succession of smooth and gentle slopes to the hill of Donore, a conspicuous elevation, crowned by a ruined church, and surrounded by a few straggling ash trees. Of this ruin nothing now remains but portions of the walls and the east AvindoAV, beneath which, and within the enclosure of the church, we find the handsome altar tomb of one of the Synnots. It is probable that this church was a ruin in 1690. The view from this point commands the entire scene upon the north and east, inclviding Drogheda and the mouth of the Boyne. It is a lone, deserted spot, seldom visited by the tourist, though memorable as marking the place at which the sceptre passed for ever from the last monarch of the royal line of Stuart. The Boyne winds round towards the north in front of this hill, from the summit of which it is distant not quite an English mile. To the right, or east, the hill fines off towards Drogheda, which is about a mile and a half distant. Its western side abuts upon, and is completely protected by the high precipitous banks of the river, now covered by the plantations of the demesnes of Farm and Oldbridge. Immediately behind this hill, towards the south, the way lies open to Dublin, along the sea-board line; and toward the south-west, situated about three miles from Donore, at the extremity of a long hill, is the village of Duleek. To the extreme north-west lies Slane, between which and Drogheda, a distance of about nine miles following the windings of the river, there Avas not at the time of the battle, nor is there yet, a bridge. Several shallows, however, occur between those tAvo points; descending the stream, some weirs, about half a mile below Slane, point out the site of ancient fords, but the principal shallow is at Rossnaree, immediately beneath the monuments of Knowth and New Grange, about

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 145

Ruins of Carbury Castle

Carbury · townland · Kildare · 1500–1600

Carbury Castle stands atop Carbury Hill, a conspicuous ruin combining medieval and Elizabethan architecture. The southern wall alone is 100 feet long, with mullioned windows, deep stone-roofed donjons, and evidence of a garden now overgrown.

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The accompanying sketch, taken from the south-east, afTbrds a very good idea of the style, magnitude, and general extent of this once noble bviilding, which is now a complete ruin; the length of the line of the southern wall figured above is alone
28 RUIXS OF CASTLE CAUBURY.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 26

St. Columbkill's House at Kells described by Petrie

Kells · town · Meath

St. Columbkill's House is a small, arched, stone-roofed building measuring about 23 feet 9 inches by 21 feet, used as both chapel and dwelling; Dr. Petrie provided a detailed architectural description including a stone called St. Columb's penitential bed.

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The following, by Dr. Petrie, is the most accurate: " This remarkable building is, in its ground plan, of a simple oblong form, measuring externally twenty-three feet nine inches in length, and twenty-one feet in breadth, and the walls are three feet ten inches in thickness. It is roofed Avith stone, and measures in height, from its base to the vertex of the gable, thirtyeight feet ; and as the height of the roof and width of the side walls are nearly equal, the gables form very nearly equilateral triangles. The loAver part of the building is arched semicircularly with stone, and has at the east end a small semicircular-headed Avindow, about fifteen feet from the ground ; and at the south side there is a second AvindoAv with a triangular, or straight-lined head, about the same height from the ground, and measuring one foot nine inches in height. These windows splay considerably upon the inside. The present entrance doorway of this building, Avhich is placed in the south wall, is obviously not original or ancient ; and the original doorAvay, which is now built up, was jolaced in the west end, and at a height of eight feet from the ground. The apartment placed between the arched floor and the slanting roof is six feet in height, and appears to have been originally divided into three compartments of unequal size, of Avhich the largest is lighted by a small aperture at the east end. In this chamber is a flat stone, six feet long and one foot thick, now called St. Columb's penitential bed."* The accompanying illustration shows the character of the angularheaded Avindow just alluded to.
When Ave last visited this house it Avas inhabited by a miserable, Avretched family.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 88

As the companion tells it

As you come through Kells, there is a small arched building known as St. Columbkill's House, a stone-roofed structure that served as both chapel and dwelling. Dr. Petrie gave the most accurate account of it. The building is a simple oblong, measuring 23 feet 9 inches in length and 21 feet in breadth, with walls 3 feet 10 inches thick. It is roofed with stone and stands 38 feet from base to the vertex of the gable. The gables form nearly equilateral triangles, since the height of the roof and the width of the side walls are nearly equal. The lower part is arched semicircularly with stone. At the east end there is a small semicircular-headed window about 15 feet from the ground, and at the south side a second window with a triangular head, about the same height, measuring 1 foot 9 inches in height. Both windows splay considerably on the inside. The present entrance doorway in the south wall is not original. The original doorway, now built up, was in the west end, 8 feet from the ground. Between the arched floor and the slanting roof there is an apartment 6 feet in height, which appears to have been divided into three compartments of unequal size. The largest is lighted by a small aperture at the east end. In this chamber is a flat stone, 6 feet long and 1 foot thick, now called St. Columb's penitential bed. When the book's writer last visited, the house was inhabited by a miserable, wretched family.

Stone coffin containing finger and toe bones at Kilbride, Wicklow

Kilbride · townland · Wicklow

Rev. Dr. Walsh recorded an unusual burial at Kilbride in County Wicklow, where a stone coffin discovered in a wild, solitary part of the mountain contained only a small urn inverted over two small bones from human fingers and toes.

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The Rev. Dr. Walsh has recorded an instance at Kilbride, in the county of Wicklow, where a stone coffin was discovered in a wild and solitary part of the mountain, and just large enoiigh to contain a small urn, which Avas inverted over two small bones belonging to human fingers and toes, and no other part of the body ! We are indebted to li. C. Walker, Esq., who has opened a great number of tombs in this country, for an account of a most interesting examination which he made of some tumuli in the county of Sligo, a celebrated locality for sepulchral remains, particularly those of the Firbolgs. Mr. Walker informs us that one kist or tomb, which contained the remains of a great number of skeletons, some evidently burned, and others exhibiting no trace of fire, occupied the centre of a large cairn. Some idea may be formed of the magnitude of this great kist Avhen it is known that one of the stones which formed the side of it was sixteen feet in length, and about six feet in breadth. In this tomb were found six different human interments, Avhich occupied the eastern and western ends, the centre part being unoccupied. The bones Avere not contained in urns, but were collected together into small heaps that rested upon the " freestone flag," which invariably formed the bottom or floor of the inner tomb. The large bones, sl^ch as the arms, legs, and thighs, covered the half-calcined remains of the smaller ones, and the skull surmounted the little pyramid thus formed. Kound the margin of this heap was collected a quantity of the bones of birds, and some of the lower mammalia, together with a number of small shells, principally the land Helix ; and each of these six interments Avas kept distinct, and surrounded by small freestone flags. No Aveapon or ornament of any kind Avas discovered in this tomb. Here, then, in this A^ery remarkable tumulus of the class denominated " giants' graves," Ave have remains of nearly every form of interment employed by the aborigines of this country.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 141

St Patrick landed at the Boyne's mouth and preached at Slane

Slane · townland · Meath

The text recounts that St Patrick first landed at the mouth of the Boyne and raised the beacon of the cross at Slane, delivering his first sermons and making his first conversions there.

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poets was drawn from this fertile source. Christianity entered Irehind through this sacred stream ; Patrick first landed at the Boyne's mouth, and raised the beacon of the cross at Slane; his first sermons were preached, and his first conversions took place
" Where, in deliglitful streams, The Boyne, the darhng of the ocean, flows."*

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, St Patrick first raised what the old book calls the beacon of the cross, after landing at the mouth of the Boyne. His first sermons were preached at Slane, and his first conversions took place here as well.

Templar skeleton found at Larne with iron sword

near Larne · town · Antrim · 1000–1200

A skeleton was discovered at Larne, Co. Antrim, accompanied by an iron sword and other weapons, identified as that of a Templar. The skull, despite an Irish physiognomy and Firbolg form, could not date earlier than the eleventh or twelfth century.

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At Larne, in the covmty of Antrim, a skeleton was lately discovered, which, from the iron sword and other Aveapons in connexion with it, appeared to have been that of a Templar ; and similar remains were not long since discovered at Kilmainham. This Templar's skull, found at Larne, although it has an Irish physiognomy, and a Firbolg form of head, cannot be dated back farther than the eleventh or twelfth century.
Wehavetwo instances recorded of human remains found in the bugs of Ireland; one of these, the mummy of which is now in the Koyal Dublin Society House, was discovei'ed in a bog, nine or ten feet beneath the surface. When first exhumed the body Avas perfectly fresh, and enclosed in a dress not unlike that in the description given of Gurth in Ivanhoe, — consistingof a tunic of cow-hide, apparently tanned, but with some remains of hair still preserved on the side Avorn next the skin. This dress is joined ixi the most accurate and beautiful manner, exhibiting an extraordinary perfection in the art of scAving. The hair on the head, A\diich is both long and fine, is of a dark broAvn colour, and the skull is compressed in a remarkable manner, owing to a portion of the earthy matter having been removed by the acid of the bog. The body of a man was found under precisely similar circumstances by Mr. R. C. Walker, but it is evidently of more recent date, perhaps not older than the time of Elizabeth ; for the dress, Avhich is of Avoollen texture, and still quite perfect, is precisely that represented in Walker's Irish Bards.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 142

The Duke of Wellington's residence at Dublin-Gate-Street, Trim

Trim · town · Meath

The house where the Duke of Wellington resided for some time at Trim still stands at the corner of Dublin-Gate-street, and the borough of Trim had the honour of returning him to the Irish Parliament on his twenty-first birthday.

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parish, in this city, contains the following entry : "Arthur, son of the Earl and Countess Mornington, born 30th April, 1769." The house where "The Duke" resided for some time at Trim still stands at the corner of Dublin-Gate-street.
The borough of Trim has the honour of having returned the Duke of Wellington, on his twenty-first birth day, to represent it in the Irish Parliament; and, in 1847, the gentry of Meath erected a Corinthian colunm on the fair-green of this town, to commemorate the military achievements of our distinguished countryman, whose early life and history is so intimately connected with this ancient town.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 60

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, the house where the Duke of Wellington lived for a time still stands at the corner of Dublin-Gate-Street. Arthur, son of the Earl and Countess Mornington, was born on the 30th of April, 1769. The borough of Trim had the honour of returning him to the Irish Parliament on his twenty-first birthday. In 1847, the gentry of Meath erected a Corinthian column on the fair-green of this town to commemorate the military achievements of a man whose early life is so intimately connected with Trim.

The Stone Circle Around New Grange

Newgrange · townland · Meath

A few yards from the outer circle of the New Grange mound there originally stood a circle of enormous detached blocks of stone placed at intervals, ten of which still existed on the south-eastern side at the time of writing.

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A few yards from the outer circle of the mound, there appears to have stood originally a circle of enormous detached blocks of stone, placed at intervals of about ten yards from each other. Ten of these, three of which are here shown,
still exist on the soiith-eastern side. Such is the present appearance of this stupendous relic of ancient Pagan times, probably one of the oldest Celtic monuments in the world, which has elicited the wonder, and called forth the admiration of all who have visited it, and has engaged the attention of nearly every distinguished antiquary, not only of the British Isles, but of Europe generally ; which, though little known to our countrymen, notwithstanding that it is within two hours' drive of Dublin, has attracted thither pilgrims from every land. It is said that a large pillar-stone, or stele, originally stood upon its summit. Before we speculate upon the date or origin, or offer any conjectures as to the uses of this vast cairn, we will conduct our readers into the interior, and point out

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 115

Tober Patrick Well and Its Rising Waters

Slane · townland · Meath

Within the burial ground north of the abbey at Slane lies the well of Tober Patrick, once held in great repute. Locals believed it rose and fell with the floods of the Boyne and sometimes had bulrushes floating in it.

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flags which formed the roof. That this is a tomb of great antiquity, and to which peculiar reverence attaches, may be learned from the fact that, at all the funerals of the lower orders here, the people, in carrying the corpse round the graveyard, according to ancient custom, invariably lay it down for a short time at this spot. Within the enclosure of the burial-ground, and to the north of the abbey, is the well of Tober Patrick, formerly in great repute, and which the people say not only rises and falls with the floods of the Boyne, but sometimes has bits of bulrushes floating in it. This rising and falling of the water in this holy well is not peculiar; several similar circumstances are related of other holy fountains. (See Nennius).
The noble pointed window, in the highly decorated style denominated flamboyant, over the round arched doorway in the western side of the tower, together with the many rare examples of architecture, of great elegance of design, both in the ruins of the church and the adjoining monastery, not forgetting the prim face of a nun, sciilptured in a stone, built up in the wall which now encloses the grave-yard, and the wide range of prospect obtained by climbing the tower itself, are well worthy a morning's visit to Slane. The church is somewhat more than 100 feet long by eighteen wide. Within it, among the nettles and rank weeds, may, if carefully looked for, be found the ancient font. It is unornamented, octagon in shape, and the basin, as usual, twenty- two inches in diameter. The ruins of the monastery, which are very extensive, are quite detached from the church, and to the north-east of it.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 110

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Slane, within the enclosure of the burial ground and to the north of the abbey, is the well of Tober Patrick. It was once held in great repute. The people say its water rises and falls with the floods of the Boyne, and that sometimes bits of bulrushes float in it. This rising and falling of the water in a holy well is not peculiar. Similar circumstances are related of other holy fountains. The burial ground itself holds a tomb of great antiquity, one to which peculiar reverence attaches. At all the funerals of the lower orders here, the people carry the corpse round the graveyard according to ancient custom, and invariably lay it down for a short time at this spot. A stone wall now encloses the grave-yard, and built up in that wall is the prim face of a nun, sculptured in stone. The church within stands somewhat more than 100 feet long by 18 wide, and among the nettles and rank weeds inside, if carefully looked for, an ancient font may be found. It is unornamented, octagon in shape, and the basin, as usual, 22 inches in diameter. The ruins of the monastery are very extensive, quite detached from the church, and to the north-east of it.

Trim's ruins, abbeys, castles and ecclesiastical history

Trim · town · Meath

Trim is described with detailed guidance on viewing its ruins, its early ecclesiastical history, St. Mary's Abbey, the Yellow Steeple, monastic annals, grey and black friaries, a nunnery, a Greek church, and military buildings and castles.

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Trim, 79 ; how to see it aright, 79; fine tableaux of ruins, 80 ; statistics of, 81; its early ecclesiastical history, 82; St. Mary's Abbey, 83; Yellow Steeple, 84 ; monastic annals, 85 ; grey friary, 85 ; black friary, 85 ; nunnery, 87 ; Greek church, 87 ; military buildings, 87 ; castles, 90, 94.
Trimblestown demesne, castle and chapel, 78.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 181

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Trim in Meath, a town thick with ruins. The old guidebooks list St. Mary's Abbey, the Yellow Steeple, grey and black friaries, a nunnery, a Greek church, and castles among its sights, but the record gives no story for any of them.

Trinity Well, the source of the River Boyne

Trinity Well · well · Limerick

The source of the River Boyne is identified as Trinity Well, located in the demesne of Newbery adjoining Carbery, County Kildare.

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The most ready mode of access to the Boyne's source, at Carbery, in the county of Kildare, is to proceed from the Broadstone, Dublin, in one of the early morning trains which starts by the Midland Great Western Eailway, to Enfield, which can be reached in about an hour and a half. Hei-e outside jaunting-cars can be hired at the rate of sixpence per mile for two persons, or one can be hired for the day, or by the job. From seven shillings and sixpence to ten shillings per day, with a douceur to the driver, will generally satisfy, but in eveiy instance a special bargain should be made with the carman before starting. The tourist should first proceed to Carbery, distant about six miles, where the hill and Castle of Carbery should be visited, and afterwards the source of the Boj^ne, at Trinity Well, in the adjoining demesne of Newbery. About a mile and a half from Enfield, the Edenderry road through Carbery crosses the Blackwater rivulet, one of the tributaries of the Boyne ; then the neat little village of Johnstown, and between that and Carbery we pass Mylerstown church and castle, about a mile to the right of the road. This latter
c

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 10

The passage of New Grange described

Newgrange · townland · Meath

The passage facing the Boyne runs north-south and measures sixty-three feet, formed of upright stones with massive roofing flags, one seventeen feet long. Many stones show smooth polish and mortice sockets apparently for wedges.

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"We now enter the passage which faces the Boyne; it runs very nearly north and south, and measures sixty-three feet in length; it is formed of twentj^-one upright stones upon the right side, and twenty- two on the left, and is roofed with flags of immense length, resting in some points upon the upright side-stones, but in other places chiefly supported by masonry external to them ; one of these is seventeen feet long and six broad. The genex'al height of the passage, for about three- fourths of its length, is about six feet: but from the accumulation of earth towards the entrance, it is scarcely so much at present. It then rises suddenly, and again, within seventeen feet of the chamber, it rises so as to slope gradually into its roof; and the stones of which this portion is composed are of gigantic size, many of them eight and ten feet high. Its average breadth is about three feet ; but some of the side stones having fallen inwards, so as almost to touch ; one requires to creep on all-fours to pass this point. Most of these side stones are remarkably smooth, even on parts where the rubbing of a century and a half could not have produced this polish, and appear to have been long exposed to the action of water or the atmosphere. Some have smooth transverse indentations, as represented by this drawing; and very many of the stones throughout this building, as well as others used for like purposes in the neighbourhood, have small sockets, or mortices, cut near or in their edges, of which we have an example before us. These appear to have been made for the insertion of wedges, either to split the stone, or to lift it.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 117

Beautiful skull and urn found near the Rock of Dunamase

Park or Dunamase · townland · Laois

A small stone chamber containing a finely formed skull was found within the outer breast-work of a rath, within 150 yards of the south side of the Rock of Dunamase in Queen's County. Beside the skeleton lay a cinerary urn described as one of the most beautiful ever discovered in the country.

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That most beautiful cranium figured upon the next page was presented to us by our friend Mr. O'Douovan, and we fear not to assert that in symmetry and general development it comes up to some of the finest Grecian models, though the general capacity of the head is small ; but it may have belonged to a small race or a small individual. The small stone chamber in. which this skull was found, five years ago, was sitviated in the outer circle or breast-work of a rath, Avithin 150 yards of the
232

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 140

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, within 150 yards of the south side of the Rock of Dunamase, a small stone chamber was found in the outer breastwork of a rath. Inside lay a skull so finely formed it was compared to Grecian models, though its capacity was small. Beside the skeleton rested a cinerary urn described as one of the most beautiful ever discovered in the country. A Mr. O'Donovan presented the skull to the author who recorded it.

Corinthian column erected at Trim fair-green, 1847

Trim · town · Meath · 1847

In 1847 the gentry of Meath erected a Corinthian column on the fair-green of Trim to commemorate the military achievements of the Duke of Wellington, whose early life was intimately connected with the town.

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The borough of Trim has the honour of having returned the Duke of Wellington, on his twenty-first birth day, to represent it in the Irish Parliament; and, in 1847, the gentry of Meath erected a Corinthian colunm on the fair-green of this town, to commemorate the military achievements of our distinguished countryman, whose early life and history is so intimately connected with this ancient town.
There were two other castles at Trim besides that just described, the castle of the Nangles and the castle of theTalbots, both of which stand behind the modern town upon the north side of the river and in the neighbourhood of the Yellow Steeple. The latter was built by the celebrated Sir John Talbot, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland in 1415, "The Scourge of France,"

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 60

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, on the fair-green, the gentry of Meath put up a Corinthian column in 1847 to commemorate the military achievements of the Duke of Wellington. His early life was intimately connected with this town. Trim had the honour of returning Wellington to represent it in the Irish Parliament, on his twenty-first birthday.

Duleek as first bishop's see in Ireland

Duleek · town · Meath

Duleek was established as the first bishop's see created in Ireland, remaining one of seven sees forming the ecclesiastical principality of Meath until Simon Rochfort suppressed it after the English invasion to consolidate power as sole Bishop of Meath.

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this time the churches of Ireland were built of wattles and boards." Thus it would appear that the original church here was the first stone ecclesiastical edifice ever erected in Ireland, being many years antecedent to the buildings at Armagh ; and, by the early Irish annalists, the term Daimllag is used for " church" as well as Temjmll. But although Kienan is said to have been, and probably was the first stone-church builder in Ireland, we read in an old poem, written by a monkofMonasterboice, usually called " Flann of the Monastery," in the eleventh century, that among the servants or attendants of St. Patrick there were three masons, whose names are specified, and who '■'■made claim] lags first in Erin.''''* A daimliag would evidently appear to mean not only a stone building, for such existed in Ireland prior to that date, of which the cloughans of Arran are examples (and perhaps some of the small stone oratories, and the buildings contained within the ancient cashels, might also be cited in proof of this), but a building of stones put together with lime, mortar, or other cement. Kienan died in 489, and his festival day is kept on the 24th November. f Duleek was the first bishop's see ever created in Ireland; and until the ambitious Simon Rochfort, shortly after the English invasion, suppressed it, or rather caused it to merge into another, on establishing himself sole Bishop of Meath, it was one of the seven which assisted to form that great ecclesiastical principality. From its exposed and maritime situation, the village of Duleek, with its rich abbey and church, offered an easy prey to the marauding Danes, by whom it was frequently plundered and burned, from 830 to 1037. After the battle of Clontarf in 1014, the bodies of Brian Borumha and his son Morough were carried to Swords, and next day conveyed by the monks of that abbey to Duleek, from whence they were afterwards transmitted to the abbey of
* This poem is preserved in the book of Lecan, one of our most ancient Gaelic manuscripts. See Dr. Petrie's reference to it in his History of the Round Towers, p 141.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 158

Fair of Tailtean continued until about eighty years ago

Teltown · townland · Meath

The fair of Tailtean persisted until about eighty years before writing, with vestiges of its sports, especially fighting, surviving within living memory at a Patron held on the opposite bank of the river, until suppressed by magistrates due to rioting.

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* This meeting and rustic pastime Avas, Ave understand, suppressed by the neighbouring magistrates and clergy about thirty years ago, in consequence of the rioting Avhich generally took place there. It is a remarkable circumstance, and confirmatory of the conjecture of its being a ]-omnant of the Teltown sports, that this assembly, though called a Patron, Avas not held in honour of any saint, but upon Lammas Day.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 93

Mr. Bolton removes Clady's ancient font from being ground away

Clady · townland · Antrim

Mr. Bolton, in whose demesne the church stands, removed the octagonal stone font at Clady to his garden to save it, as it had been used for years by local peasantry as a whetstone.

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the church stands, has lately, Avith laudable zeal, removed the font to his garden, to preserve it from utter demolition, and being literally ground away ; for it had been used by the adjoining peasantry for years as a rub or whetstone, as all loiterers in ancient churchyards must be aware has been the fate of many a similar sacred vessel. It is perfectly plain, octagon in shape, and measures two feet five inches in diameter. It is evidently of great antiquity; and the size of its basin rather favours the idea which we already stated when alluding to the font at Clonard, that immersion was, in all probability, the form of baptism employed by the early Irish Christians. Now that Mr. Bolton has enclosed his demesne, and that the same means of access for mere knife-grinding purposes have ceased to exist, we confess we should like to see this relic restored to its ancient and original site.
The accompanying graphic and faithful sketch, will afford the reader a tolerable idea of this interesting group of ruins.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 72

New Grange Cairn Described

Newgrange · townland · Meath

The great cairn at New Grange, calculated at 180,000 tons weight and covering nearly two acres, occupies the summit of a natural slope enclosing the Boyne valley, standing about eighty feet above the surrounding surface.

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Like that just described, it consists of an enormous cairn or hill of small stones, calculated at 180,000 tons weight, occupying the summit of one of the natural undulating slopes which enclose the valley of the Boyne upon the north. It is said to cover nearly two acres, and is 400 paces in circum-
190

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 114

Plague of 1447 kills the Prior of Ballybogan

Ballybogan · townland · Donegal · 1447

The Four Masters record a great plague that raged through Meath, Leinster and Munster in 1447, killing several hundred priests including the Prior of Ballybogan.

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only twice by the Four Masters ; once, in the year 1446, in recording the interment of Tany, son of Maoilin, who was interred in the monastery o? Baile-ui Bhofjain; and again, the year following, when we read of a great plague which raged in Meath, Leinster, and Munster; and by which it is related that several hundred priesLs died; among the rest the Prior of Ballybogan.*
Archdall has collected with great care some curious notices of this monastic edifice, which was founded in the twelfth century by Jordan Comin,f under the invocation of the IIolv Trinity, for canons of the order of St. Augustine, and was originally called " The Priory de Laude Dei." By an inquisition taken in the year 1399, "it was found that John O'Mayller, a mere Irishman, and of the Irish sept of the O'Mayllers, enemies to our Lord the King, was instituted to the priory of the Blessed Virgin of Ballybogan ; but Richard Cuthbert did on the same day make due proof that the said priory was not under the invocation of the Virgin Mary, but dedicated to the Holy Trinity, and that he was the lawful prior thereof. Cuthbert was accordingly restored to the temporalities.";}: From the well of Ballybogan, or Lady Well, being dedicated to the Virgin, it is not improbable that there may have been some earlier monastic buildings here vinder the same invocation, and that hence arose the dispute just referred to.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 38

Raymond le Gros repairs the castles of Trim and Duleek

Duleek · town · Meath

According to Giraldus Cambrensis, on hearing of Roderick's inroad into Meath, Raymond le Gros marched from Wexford the day after his wedding to oppose him, and subsequently repaired the castles of Trim and Duleek which had been wasted by Hugh Tyrell.

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sister of Earl Strongbow, marched the next day to oppose him, not being overcome either by love or by wine; that Roderick, Avho had had previous experience of his valour, retreated at his approach; and that Raymond repaired the castles of Meath, that is to say, of Trym and of Duleek, which had been wasted by Hugh Tyrell.' "
The tragical end of the first English lord of Meath is already well known: he is said to have been murdered by an Irish labourer, while directing some Avork at the castle which he was building at Durrow, in the King's County. De Lacy having stooped forward at the moment, the man nearly severed his head from his body, at a single blow, with a sharp axe, which he had concealed for the purpose beneath his clothes.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild

Riverstown Castle's masonry and 'murder-holes'

Riverstown · townland · Meath

Riverstown Castle, about a mile and a half from the Boyne near Bellinter, was one of the best-built castles on the Boyne, with a massive square tower and turrets containing concealed flues popularly known among the people as 'murder-holes'; part of it was inhabited within the last eighty years.

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Turning southward from Bellinter Bridge, as we begin to ascend the hill towards Tara, the castle of Riverstown, about a mile and a half from the Boyne's brink, will be found well Avorthy of inspection. This was one of the best built castles upon the Boyne; and the remains which still exist, in the perfection of their masonry, and the sharpness and beauty of their lines, still bear witness to the fact. The ruins of this beautiful building show it to have been of the same type as most other castles of the Pale which we have examined, consisting of two portions, an ancient and a modern. The former is a massive square tower, entirely built of cut or hammered stone, with three square turrets at the corners, which batter very much toward the foundation, and at top rise several feet above the principal part of the building. The eastern turret was originally a pigeon-house, and that on the west side contained a spiral staircase which led to a parapet at top. These turrets Avere lighted by small square windows and loop-holes, and were, as Avell as the central tower, divided into four floors and an attic. In the wall of each of these turrets we find one of these chimney-like, concealed flues, or upright passages, common in some of the ancient castles, and popularly known among the people as " murder-holes." This part of the castle was inhabited within the last eighty years, and portions of the plaster still remain upon the interior of the walls. The more modern portion abutted against the Avestern Avail of the tower, and shows, by the two gable-grooves, Avhich are still visible in the latter, that it was erected or re-edified at diff'erent periods; and this conjecture is further supported by the fact of the existence of a large stone-arched keep, still remaining on the north-Avestern side. Portions of the wall of the bawn can still be traced in the surrounding farm-yard.
By whom, or at Avhat precise time, the original castle of RiverstoAvn Avas built, Ave have no means of ascertaining, but

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 74

Round tower (cloictheach) of Clonard fell in 1039

Clonard · town · Meath · 1039

The Annals of Clonmacnoise and the Four Masters record that the cloictheach, or round tower steeple, of Clonard fell to the ground in the year 1039, though no trace of it has since been found at the site.

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At a later period the abbey was dedicated to St. Peter, but what the original buildings were we can now but conjecture, probably a missionary chapel, a few monastic cells, and a cloictheach, or round tower. There was also a derthech, or penitentiary, the burning of which, in the eleventh century, has been recorded. We have constantly wondered that no trace of a round tower had been discovered in this sacred spot ; but we learn from the Annals of Clonmacnoise and the Four Masters, that the cloictheach, or steeple of Cluain loraird, fell to the ground in the year 1039- Archdall understands this to be the steeple of the church, and so indeed it was, though a separate building from it. For upwards of a thousand years the annals of Clonard have come down to us;
* Mac Geoghegan's History of Ireland, vol. i. p. 402.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 42

As the companion tells it

As you come through Clonard in Meath, you are passing a place whose annals run back over a thousand years. The old abbey here was dedicated to St. Peter, and among its original buildings was a cloictheach, a round tower. The Annals of Clonmacnoise and the Four Masters record that this steeple of Cluain loraird fell to the ground in 1039. Archdall took it to mean the steeple of the church, and indeed it was, though it stood as a separate building. No trace of the tower has ever been found on the site. There was also a derthech, a penitentiary, whose burning in the eleventh century was recorded.

Source of the Boyne at Trinity Well, Carbury

Carbury · townland · Kildare

The Boyne rises at Trinity Well in the demesne of Newbury near the village of Carbury in County Kildare, 289 feet above sea level, one of Ireland's many holy wells associated with both historical and superstitious interest.

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The Boyne rises in the barony, and near the little village of Carbery, in the county of Kildare, about seven miles southeast of Enfield,f and four from Edenderry, at Trinity Well, in the demesne of Newbury, 289 feet above the level of the sea ; one of those holy wells so numerous in Ireland, and to which so much interest, historical as well as superstitious, is attached. Running westward for a few miles, it reaches the King's County, and then becomes the boundary for a short distance between that part of Leinster and its parent county, draining in its course the surplus waters of the adjacent great Bog of Allen. Leaving King's County upon its north-western bank, it touches Meath near Castle- Jordan, and forms the boundary between that county and Kildare, till it reaches Ashford, beloAV the bridge of Clonard. In this portion of its course it receives the Yellow River and Milltown stream, and, where
* See also the Rev. M. Kelly's Notes to Cambrensis Eversus, in the Celtic Society's recently published edition of that work.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 23

Stones of Dowth removed for road-building

Dowth · townland · Meath

A gap in the western face of the Dowth mound resulted from stones being removed over time for buildings or macadamizing material for the road at its foot, allegedly even presented for by the county grand jury.

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We mentioned that Dowth, or Dubhadh, had been ransacked by the Danes, during one of their inroads in the ninth century ; where they broached the mound, or whether they examined all its chambers, it is now difficult to say. A considerable gap existed in the western face of the mound, caused by large quantities of the stones of which it is composed having been removed at different times to erect buildings or to break up into macadamizing materials for the road which passes at its foot. It has been said, we hope without truth, that the grand jury of the county on one occasion presented, in form, for the stones of Dowth, to improve the condition of their roads. In this excavation, on the western side, a passage somewhat similar to that of New Grange had long remained exposed; but, from the falling in of its sides and roof, it was not possible to follow it for more than a few yards on either side. Whether this passage was that originally broken open by AmlafFand his plundering Danes, it is difficult to determine.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 124

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, stones were taken from the Dowth mound over the years, knocked loose and broken up to surface the road at its foot, or used to put up buildings. It has even been said that the county grand jury once formally presented for the stones of Dowth to improve their roads, though the writer hoped that was without truth. All that removal left a considerable gap in the western face of the mound, and in that excavation a passage much like the one at Newgrange had long stood open. You could only follow it a few yards either way, as the sides and roof had fallen in. Whether that passage was the one originally broken open by Amlaff and his plundering Danes during their ninth-century inroads, the writer could not say.

Superstitious lavatory trough at Clonard graveyard

Clonard · town · Meath

A square stone trough, probably an ancient monastic lavatory, lay buried near the church tower in Clonard graveyard; the peasantry believed its water, like the Deer-stone at Glendalough, could cause the death of animals that drank it yet was sought as an infallible cure for warts.

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The third stone to which we alluded is a square trough, probably the lavatory of the ancient monastery. It is rude and undecorated, with a cavity two feet tAvo inches long, by twenty-one inches wide, and about fifteen inches in depth. It rem.ained, until we had it taken up, veiy lately, almost completely buried in the grave-yard, near the present church tower. Like several other hallowed stones, such as piscinas, bolt-holes, and steps or bases of crosses, Avhich are met with on the sites of many of our old churches and religious houses, peculiar superstitious reverence attached to this ancient washing basin as long as it remained over groimd. Like the " Deer-stone" at Glendalough, it was said to have contained water at all times, and to this water peculiar properties were attributed by the peasantry; it was believed to cause the illness and death of geese and all animals which drank it, and it was sought for as an infallible remedy — one of the hundred infallible cures — for warts.*
At what precise period during the present century those time-honoured ruins at Clonard were completely effaced, or to what base uses they were applied, it is now difficult to say. The chief dilapidation certainly occurred within the last fiveand- twenty years. Ruins such as these are the landmarks of

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 45

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Clonard in Meath, there is a graveyard near the church tower where a square stone trough lay buried for years. It was probably the lavatory of the ancient monastery, rude and undecorated, with a cavity about two feet two inches long, twenty-one inches wide, and fifteen inches deep. The writer had it taken up only recently. As long as it remained above ground, the peasantry held it in peculiar superstitious reverence. Like the Deer-stone at Glendalough, it was said to contain water at all times, and that water was believed to cause the illness and death of geese and all animals which drank it. Yet the same water was sought after as an infallible cure for warts, one of the hundred infallible cures known to local belief. The chief dilapidation of the old ruins at Clonard occurred within the last twenty-five years, though the precise period is now difficult to say.

Tailtean sports, marriages and St. Patrick traditions

Teltown · townland · Meath

Teltown (Tailtean) is noted for its ancient sports and marriages, a great fort, traditions connecting it to St. Patrick, and the ruins of its old church.

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Teltowm, or Tailtean, 149 ; sports and marriages of, 150, 151, 152 ; great fort of, 152 ; stories of St. Patrick connected with, 153, 154 ; ruins of the church of, 154.
Templar, skeleton of a, found at Larne, 237.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 181

The Battle of Bolg-Boinne

near River Boyne · river · Kildare · 765

In the year 765, according to the Annals of the Four Masters, the Battle of Bolg-Boinne (the belly of the Boyne) was fought against the men of south Breagh at a remarkable winding of the river known as 'the sweep of the Boyne', in which certain Irish chieftains were slain.

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There is in this locality a remarkable winding of the river, styled in ancient writings " the sweep of the Boyne," where it spreads out into a considerable expanse, and the spot is memorable in Irish history. In the year 765, the seventh of Niall, the Annals of the Four Masters, in recording the various battles which took place in the east of Ireland, give us an account of " the battle of Bolg-Boinne" (the belly of the Boyne), "against the men of south Breagh," in which certain Irish chieftains were slain. The hostile belligerents appear to have been the Leinstermen.
About a mile beyond the bridge of Glonard, towards the west, we find the ruins of the old fortress of Ticroghan, or Queen Mary's Gastle, as it is sometimes styled ; it can be seen from the Ballybogan road, upon the left bank of the river, and may be visited in that route. We cannot, however, stop to record the annals of every feudal or monastic pile that attracts our attention in this passage down the Boyne; but we may here remark, that Lord Ormonde retired to this castle from Trim, in 1649, shortly before the siege of Drogheda, and that, "• after a well-regulated defence," it was surrendered by Lady Fitzgarret, in 1650, to Golonel Reynolds and Colonel Huetson.* In its vicinity some remains of the walls of an ancient church and a burial ground, which formerly contained an antique font, also exist; but even within our own memory portions of the walls of the castle have been torn down to supply building materials. De Lacy built a castle at Glonard, but, if this was not it, we cannot find any trace of it.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 51

The wayside cross of Nevinstown and the Cusack family

Nevinstown · townland · Meath · 1588

The wayside cross at Nevinstown, dated 1588, bears an inscription commemorating Michael Cusack and his wife Margaret Dexter, and once stood beside a road linking Navan to Rathaldron Castle, long the Cusack family seat.

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" This inscription leaves little doubt that this memorial was one of the wayside crosses so generally erected by the piety of individuals about the sixteenth and the preceding centuries, but which the ill-directed zeal of a subsequent period so unsparingly mutilated, and often wholly destroyed. Upon inquiry it proved that a road, leading from Navan to Rathaldron Castle, long the residence of one of the principal branches of the ancient family of the Cusacks, once passed close in front of this cross."
The name of the husband of Margaret Dexter Mr. Smith soon after learned from a manuscript in the possession of Mr. H. T. Cusack. " This MS. is written in French, and entitled ' An Historical Memoir and Genealogy of the ancient and illustrious House of Cusack, of the Kingdom of Ireland.' It appears to have been compiled by the Chevalier O'Gorman in the year 1767. It states that ' Michael de Cusack, lord of Portrane and Rathaldron, married Margaret Dexter, who brought him, as a marriage portion, the castle, town, and lands of Rathaldron. He was ' Grelfier' [a term which Boyer translates ' Registrar,' or Keeper of the Rolls] of Westmeath and of Louth in 1553, one of the Barons of the Exchequer in 1580, and died in 1589-' From this it may be safely concluded that the initials ' M. C upon the cross are those of ' Michael Cusack,' and that his was the name sculptured on the upper part of the cross, now lost."

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 97

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Nevinstown there stands a wayside cross dated 1588, one of those crosses people put up by the roads in the sixteenth century and earlier. Many were later mutilated or destroyed. A road once ran from Navan to Rathaldron Castle past the front of this cross, and Rathaldron was long the seat of one of the principal branches of the ancient Cusack family. The cross carries the initials M. C. and commemorates a husband and wife. The wife was Margaret Dexter, and a French manuscript in the possession of Mr. H. T. Cusack gave the husband's name. That manuscript, compiled by the Chevalier O'Gorman in 1767, is titled an historical memoir and genealogy of the ancient and illustrious House of Cusack of the Kingdom of Ireland. It states that Michael de Cusack, lord of Portrane and Rathaldron, married Margaret Dexter, who brought him as a marriage portion the castle, town, and lands of Rathaldron. He was registrar, or keeper of the rolls, of Westmeath and of Louth in 1553, one of the barons of the Exchequer in 1580, and died in 1589. His name was sculptured on the upper part of the cross, now lost.

Tomb of Lord Bellew, wounded at Aughrim, at Duleek

Duleek · town · Meath · 1691–1692

An ornamented intramural tomb at Duleek church was erected by Dame Mary Bermingham in memory of her husband John Lord Bellew, who received a wound at the Battle of Aughrim and later died of it in London in 1692.

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commanding view of the surrounding cou.ntry, and the line of the retreat. A series of open arches occupy the northern side of the chancel, which is seventy feet long, and, except the eastern window, presents but little architectural beauty. Underneath the east window is a tablet, stating that it was built by Sir John Bellewe, Knight, and his wife, Dame Ismay Nugent, in 1587. Some handsome tombs stand in the upper end of the church. One in particular claims attention; it is that of a bishop, whose figure, in full canonicals, carved in high relief, lies upon the upper horizontal flag. Another of these intramural tombs, the position of which tells us that the church was a ruin, or at least unoccupied, a hundred and fifty years ago, is highly ornamented with heraldic devices, and was, we learn from the inscription, erected by Dame Mary Bermingham, to the memory of her husband, John Lord Bellew, who received a wound at the battle of Aughrim, of which he subsequently died in London in 1692. Some members of the Louth family, and also of the Barnwalls and Burkes, are likeAvise interred here.
The adjoining Protestant church is a much more modern structure. In the tower is a dumpy white marble statue of Judge Trotter; and in the surrounding graveyard, the upper portion, perhaps one-half, of a beautifully sculptured ancient stone cross, the arms being enclosed within a richly ornate circle. The cap, or shrine-like terminal, has been removed, but the tenon for the mortice on which it was placed still remains.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 159

Tumulus of Knockeagh near Rush

Rush · town · Dublin · 1839

In 1839 Lieutenant Newenham presented to the Royal Irish Academy an account of a tumulus near Rush called Knochlea, containing a stone chamber approached by a long passage, with shell beds and human bones found beneath.

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had a footing in Ireland. With the various English invasions in more modern times every reader of Irish history is familiar. We shall now demonstrate some of the human remains of the first or earliest inhabitants found in this country, and detail the circumstances under which they have been discovered. At the beginning of the last century, the distinguished physician, Sir Thomas Molyneux, was the first to investigate this interesting subject, which, from his day until the publication of the Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy a few years ago, remained forgotten and neglected ; and the very prejudices and superstitions of the lower orders of our countrymen who might accidentally open any of the ancient burial-places, led them to secrete or destroy any human remains found within them. OAving partly to this cause, and partly to the circumstance of their value not being understood from the days of Molyneux until within the last dozen years, there does not appear to have been any regard paid by antiquaries to the preservation or description of human remains. The following, summary includes an account of the various forms of burial made use of by our aborigines, at least so far as we have any authentic account of them: — First and most notable is a dome- roofed stone chamber, containing the remains of one or more bodies, and approached by a covered way, the whole being enclosed in a large earthen tumulus or barrow, and generally surrounded by a circle of upright pillarstones. This is the true pyramid, modify it as we please, of which the type is to be found in those great oriental monuments, with the characters of which all are acquainted. The most splendid specimen of this description, which we know of in Central or North-western Europe, is the magnificent mausoleum at New Grange, which may well be denominated the Great Pyramid of the West. When New Grange was first opened, a great many years ago, we are told that " two entire skeletons, not burnt, were found on the floor;" but what characters these bones presented, or with what emblems that might mark the date of their interment, we know not, as none of the remains discovered in this vault have come down to the present day. We only hear that the bodies were buried entire, and not burned. In 1839, the account of a tumulus of a similar character, found near Rush, in this county, was presented to the Royal Irish Academy by Lieutenant Newenham. This barrow, called Knochlea, consisted of a chamber about eight feet long and

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 135

Archdall's 1786 description of Clonard abbey ruins

Clonard · town · Meath · 1786

Archdall described the surviving ruins of Clonard abbey around 1786, including the kitchen, cellar, dormitory, refectory, choir with Gothic windows, and a supposed founder's tomb, plus a chapel with a table monument bearing the arms of the Dillon family.

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over it, which led into a small court ; to the right of this court stands the kitchen and cellar, and over them the dormitory, ranging with the river, and overlooking the garden, which sloped from thence to the water's edge ; opposite the entrance was another small apartment, and adjoining it, the refectory, which was carried for some length beyond the square, and joined the choir, a large and elegant biiilding, most part of Avhich still remains, and the windows are finished in a light Gothic style. On the south side of the altar, fixed in the wall, is a small double arch, in the old Saxon manner, and divided by a pillar through which iron bars were fixed. This is supposed to have been the founder's tomb. There are many remains of walls adjoining the other parts of the abbey, but in so ruinous a state that little information can be gleaned from them. At a little distance from the east window, in the burial ground, stands a small chapel, in which is a table monument, ornamented with the effigies of a man and a woman, in a praying posture, and dressed in the rufi" of Queen Elizabeth's time; the sides are adorned with many coats of arms, — that of the family of Dillon is most conspicous."*

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 44

As the companion tells it

Around 1786, Archdall described what was still standing of Clonard abbey in this town. The kitchen and cellar survived, with the dormitory above them, ranging with the river and overlooking the garden that sloped to the water's edge. The refectory ran beyond the square and joined the choir, a large and elegant building, most of which still remained, with windows finished in a light Gothic style. On the south side of the altar, fixed in the wall, was a small double arch divided by a pillar with iron bars, supposed to have been the founder's tomb. Many adjoining walls stood but in so ruinous a state that little could be gleaned from them. In the burial ground, a small chapel held a table monument with the effigies of a man and woman in a praying posture, dressed in the ruff of Queen Elizabeth's time, and adorned with many coats of arms, that of the Dillon family most conspicuous.

Bective Abbey ruins on the Boyne

Bective · townland · Meath

The ruins of the great Cistercian monastery of Bective Abbey are among the most perfect in Meath, presenting from the bridge a castellated appearance of turrets, gables and chimneys colored by lichen and ivy, enclosed by the present proprietor's wall to protect them from desecration.

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The ruins of this great Cistercian monastery are among the most perfect in Meath, and enough still remains to enable the tourist to decide, with a tolerable degree of certainty, upon the original use of each compartment, and every room and cell in the building; and as the present proprietor has enclosed them with a wall, they are less desecrated than most of the ecclesiastical remains in Ireland. It is a fact, strange but true, that

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 69

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here are the ruins of Bective Abbey, a great Cistercian monastery, and they count among the most perfect in Meath. From the bridge they give a castellated look of turrets, gables and chimneys, coloured by lichen and ivy. The present proprietor has enclosed them with a wall to protect them from desecration, and enough remains that you can still make out the original use of each room and cell.

Boan's grave among the royal cemetery of Brugh na Boinne

near Brú na Bóinne · monument · Meath

Despite the legend of her drowning, ancient poets and topographers recorded Boan's monument among the graves of the great royal cemetery of Brugh na Boinne, as noted in the Senchas na Relec.

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Dabella, the lapdog of Boan, shared, it is said, the fate of its mistress, and was swept out on the rushing waves of the Boyne to the sea, where it was transformed into the rocks since called Da Billian, which rise above the Avater at the Boyne's mouth. Notwithstanding the watery grave thus assigned by the poet Kenneth O'Hartigan, in the Book of Ballymote, to the wife of Nectain, her monument is recorded by the ancient poets and topographers among those of the great royal cemetery of Brugh na Boinne. Thus in the Senclias na Eelec, or History of the Irish Cemeteries, we find enumerated : " The grave of Boinne, the wife of Nechtain; it was she took with her the small hound called Dabilla, from which Cnoc Dabilla is called." So many versions of this story have come down to us, that, without attaching any credence to the legend, we are forced to receive the fact of the name of the river having been derived from an Irish princess named Boinn, Boan, or Boann, Similar legends are related of the origin of Lough Neagh, and se\ eral other lakes and rivers.
The well is famed for its medicinal virtues, and there is a Pattern, or Patron, still held there on Trinity Sunday.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 25

Church of St. Kieran and its termon crosses at Castlekieran

Castlekeeran · townland · Meath

About three miles above Kells stands the ancient Church of St. Kieran with remains of five termon crosses in its vicinity, one erected remarkably in a ford of the river; the shaft of this cross was reportedly thrown into a pool by a Protestant iconoclast.

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About three miles above Kells, on the southern bank of the river we meet the first group of interesting antiquarian remains, consisting of the ancient Church of St. Kieran, with the remains of five termon crosses in its vicinity, four of which are placed north, south, east, and west of the ruin. The northern one was erected in a ford in the river, a very remarkable situation for one of these early Christian structures. The base still stands in its original locality, but the shaft, the arms, and the top Avere removed, it is said, many years ago, by some good Protestant, Avho, anxious to show his loyalty, as well as his detestation of such idolatrous structures, threw them into into an adjoining deep pool in the river. Such is one of the local traditions, but Ave shall presently relate another just as probable.
* Annals of the Four Masters, A. D. 2850 ; and sec note >, p. 10.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 87

Cloghlea stone circle remnant

Dowth · townland · Meath

In the same field adjoining the road near Dowth, forming the edge of a quarry, stands Cloghlea, a portion of a stone circle that was part of a sepulchral chamber similar to New Grange, possibly even larger. Four immense stones still stand (one twelve feet long), with human remains found in the vicinity on more than one occasion.

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In the same field, and immediately adjoining the road, and now forming the edge of a quarry, we meet Cloghlea, a portion of a stone circle, evidently a part of the side wall or basement of a sepulchral chamber similar to New Grange, than which it was, perhaps, even larger. Four of these stones, of immense size (one twelve feet long), still stand, two others are prostrate, and two more are lying in the adjoining quarry, — eight in all. Human remains have, on more than one occasion, been found in the vicinity of this remnant of an ancient tumulus. On the edges of these stones will be found indentations similar to those in some of the stones of the passage of New Grange, one of which is figured at page 194.
See Battle of Magh Rath, p. 7.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 128

As the companion tells it

Close to Dowth, somewhere around here, stands Cloghlea, a portion of a stone circle that once formed part of a sepulchral chamber similar to Newgrange, and perhaps even larger. Four immense stones still stand, one of them twelve feet long. Two others lie prostrate, and two more rest in the adjoining quarry, eight stones in all. Human remains have been found near this remnant of an ancient tumulus on more than one occasion. The edges of the stones bear indentations like those found on some of the stones in the passage at Newgrange.

Crossing of the Mattock River at Monknewtown

Monknewtown · townland · Meath · 1690

William's advancing troops proceeded behind the hill in the demesne of Townley Hall and crossed the Mattock river at Monknewtown, remaining concealed from the Irish army until they emerged near Knowth.

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There is one point in the battle of the Boyne (Avhich we were the first to point out, in the earlier edition of this work), on which sufiicient stress has not been laid, although it Avould appear to have had a greater influence on the issue of the fight than historians are aware. The right wing of the Irish army was completely protected by Drogheda, the Boyne, and the sea ; its left towards Slane was unprotected ; and if this was once turned or outflanked, the road to Duleek must be occupied, Dublin would be cut off", and then the temporary refuge of the fortress of Drogheda afforded the only hope for the Irish army. This could not escape the notice of a skilful opposing general, neither was it unforeseen to some of the advisers of King James, although he himself does not appear to have paid sufficient attention to it. At break of day upon the morning of Tuesday, the 1st of July, which was a remarkably clear, hot day, William despatched 10,000 men under the younger Schomberg, Generals Douglas, Overkirk, and Lord Portland, to cross the river at the fords, near Slane, of the existence and passability of which he appears to have been well informed. Proceeding behind the hill, now included in the demesne of Townley Hall, and crossing the Mattock river at Monk-Newtown, they were concealed from the Irish until they appeared on the elevated banks near Knowth, above the ford of Kossnaree, where it would appear the cavalry crossed with scarcely any opposition, except from the regiment of SirNealO'Neale, who himself was killed in the skirmish. The foot under Portland passed round by the bridge of Slane, two miles farther off, but joined the English cavalry near a marsh or bog which stood between them and their opponents, and before a sufficient force could have been despatched by James to oppose them. Here then was an army, nearly half the size of that of King James, advancing upon the left wing of the
THE BATTLE OF ROSSNAREE. 253

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Monknewtown, you are near a crossing that shaped the Battle of the Boyne. On the morning of Tuesday the 1st of July 1690, a remarkably clear, hot day, William dispatched 10,000 men under the younger Schomberg, Generals Douglas, Overkirk, and Lord Portland, to cross the river at the fords near Slane. William was well informed of the existence and passability of those fords. The left wing of the Irish army towards Slane was unprotected. The right wing was covered by Drogheda, the Boyne, and the sea, but if that left was once turned or outflanked, the road to Duleek would be occupied, Dublin cut off, and the only hope left for the Irish army would be the fortress of Drogheda. This could not escape a skilful opposing general, though King James himself does not appear to have paid sufficient attention to it. Proceeding behind the hill, now included in the demesne of Townley Hall, and crossing the Mattock river at Monknewtown, William's 10,000 were concealed from the Irish until they appeared on the elevated banks near Knowth, above the ford of Rossnaree. The cavalry crossed with scarcely any opposition, except from the regiment of Sir Neal O'Neale, who himself was killed in the skirmish. The foot under Portland passed round by the bridge of Slane, two miles farther off, and joined the English cavalry near a marsh or bog which stood between them and their opponents, all this before a sufficient force could have been despatched by James to oppose them. Here then was an army, nearly half the size of that of King James, advancing upon the left wing of the Irish.

Danish raids on Duleek's abbey and church

Duleek · town · Meath · 830–1037

Due to its exposed and maritime situation, Duleek's rich abbey and church were repeatedly plundered and burned by Danish raiders between 830 and 1037.

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this time the churches of Ireland were built of wattles and boards." Thus it would appear that the original church here was the first stone ecclesiastical edifice ever erected in Ireland, being many years antecedent to the buildings at Armagh ; and, by the early Irish annalists, the term Daimllag is used for " church" as well as Temjmll. But although Kienan is said to have been, and probably was the first stone-church builder in Ireland, we read in an old poem, written by a monkofMonasterboice, usually called " Flann of the Monastery," in the eleventh century, that among the servants or attendants of St. Patrick there were three masons, whose names are specified, and who '■'■made claim] lags first in Erin.''''* A daimliag would evidently appear to mean not only a stone building, for such existed in Ireland prior to that date, of which the cloughans of Arran are examples (and perhaps some of the small stone oratories, and the buildings contained within the ancient cashels, might also be cited in proof of this), but a building of stones put together with lime, mortar, or other cement. Kienan died in 489, and his festival day is kept on the 24th November. f Duleek was the first bishop's see ever created in Ireland; and until the ambitious Simon Rochfort, shortly after the English invasion, suppressed it, or rather caused it to merge into another, on establishing himself sole Bishop of Meath, it was one of the seven which assisted to form that great ecclesiastical principality. From its exposed and maritime situation, the village of Duleek, with its rich abbey and church, offered an easy prey to the marauding Danes, by whom it was frequently plundered and burned, from 830 to 1037. After the battle of Clontarf in 1014, the bodies of Brian Borumha and his son Morough were carried to Swords, and next day conveyed by the monks of that abbey to Duleek, from whence they were afterwards transmitted to the abbey of
* This poem is preserved in the book of Lecan, one of our most ancient Gaelic manuscripts. See Dr. Petrie's reference to it in his History of the Round Towers, p 141.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 158

Demolition of the tea-house to access the Dowth chamber

Dowth · townland · Meath · 1847

To follow the excavation to the mound's centre, the modern tea-house structure on top of Dowth was demolished, serving as a warning to future builders of such structures on ancient monuments.

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was so inviting, that this latter plan was adopted; and, although the examination has not been attended with the expected success, we have no hesitation in pronouncing it to have afforded the most valuable results. A catacomb, or series of chambers, not unlike those found beneath the great central chamber in the largest pyramid of the Sackara range, which we described some years ago,* has been fully explored and rendered accessible to the curious, and these we shall presently detail. Having made an open cutting into the western side of the mound, in following out these passages, it was certainly the most advisable, as well as the cheapest plan, to follow in the same course, till the centre was reached. In effecting this, the modern structure on the top was demolished; such, however, was indispensable, and it may act as a warning, and shoAV all the future builders of tea-houses, in such places, what may be the end of their labours. The upper portion above the lintel in this drawing, representing the mouth of the passage, is modern, the stones being replaced by the workmen, but the cut gives a very good idea of the appearance of this passage.
Following this exposed gallery, which runs eastward, and is formed of huge stones, set on end and slightly inclined at top, nine on the right, and eleven on the left, sunk in the ground, and roofed

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 125

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Dowth, in 1847, a tea-house that had been built on top of the mound was demolished to reach the ancient chambers beneath. An open cutting was driven into the western side of the mound, and the excavators followed the passages inward toward the centre rather than dig from above. The tea-house had to go. The writer of the time called it indispensable and said it "may act as a warning, and show all the future builders of tea-houses, in such places, what may be the end of their labours." What they uncovered was a series of chambers, likened to those beneath the great central chamber in the largest pyramid of the Sackara range. An exposed gallery runs eastward, formed of huge stones set on end and slightly inclined at top, nine on the right and eleven on the left, sunk in the ground and roofed over.

Donaghmore round tower described

Donaghmore · townland · Meath · 900–1000

The round tower at Donaghmore is described in detail by Dr. Petrie as built entirely of limestone with six stories, a doorway twelve feet from the ground, and dated to no earlier than the ninth or tenth century, comparable to the tower of Kells.

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" This very beautiful tower is built entirely of limestone, undressed, except around the doorway and other apertures, and is of admirable masonry. It has two projecting ledges or steps at its base, and six rests for stories, with intermediate projecting stones or brackets in its interior. These stories are each, as usual, lighted by a single aperture, with the exception of the upper one, which has two openings, one facing the east, and the other the west ; and the apertures present all the architectural varieties of form observable in our most ancient churches.* The circumference of this tower, near its base, is sixty-six feet six inches, and its height, to the slant of the roof, which is wanting, is about 100 feet. The wall is three feet nine inches in thickness, and the doorway is twelve feet from the grovind. This doorway, which is of very beautiful execution, and, as usual, faces the west end of the church, is five feet two inches in height, and has inclined sides, and a semi-
* Since this was written the top of Donaghmore tower has been repaired ; but while we must, with every admirer of the ancient architecture of Ireland, and everA' one who desires to see those ruins preserved from utter destruction, applaud the motive that induced this reparation, we cannot but regret that more attention was not paid to the form of the tops of other roiuid towers In this modem top there are no windows whatever, an anomaly in Irish round towers.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 100

Excavation of the Knockmaroon Tumulus, Phoenix Park

Knockmaroon Hill · hill or hills · Dublin · 1838

A committee of the Royal Irish Academy investigated a tumulus at Knockmaroon in the Phoenix Park in 1838, an excavation credited with settling the debate over cromlechs as sepulchral rather than altar structures.

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"We now turn to the Irish heads again, and with them to the second form of burial, the cromlech, where the stone chamber under the centre of a mound is not approached by a passage as in the pyramidal structures at Grange, Dowth, or Ru sh, and contains one or more skeletons j^laced in a horizontal or recumbent posture. This is not the place to discuss the old question of the purpose of cromlechs ; the opinion of their being altars seems to have completely given way to their sepulchral use and origin ; and chiefly from the discovery and accurate investigation of a tumulus at Knockmaroon, in the Phoenix Park, near Dublin, by a committee of the Eoyal Irish Academy, in 1838.* Within this stone chamber two perfect male skeletons were
* The stone vault, or chamber, of a similar one, is now preserved in our Zoological Gardens.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 138

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Knockmaroon Hill, you are near a burial mound dug open in 1838 by a committee of the Royal Irish Academy. They found a stone chamber under the centre of the mound, and inside it two perfect male skeletons. That discovery settled an old argument about cromlechs, the stone structures found across Ireland. People had thought they were altars, but this find showed they were graves. The opinion that they were altars, as the source says, "seems to have completely given way to their sepulchral use and origin".

Firbolg giants' grave tumulus examined in County Sligo

Sligo · town · Sligo

R. C. Walker examined a tumulus in County Sligo, a locality celebrated for Firbolg sepulchral remains, finding a great kist with six distinct human interments including both burned and unburned bones, along with bird bones and shells, but no weapons or ornaments.

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The Rev. Dr. Walsh has recorded an instance at Kilbride, in the county of Wicklow, where a stone coffin was discovered in a wild and solitary part of the mountain, and just large enoiigh to contain a small urn, which Avas inverted over two small bones belonging to human fingers and toes, and no other part of the body ! We are indebted to li. C. Walker, Esq., who has opened a great number of tombs in this country, for an account of a most interesting examination which he made of some tumuli in the county of Sligo, a celebrated locality for sepulchral remains, particularly those of the Firbolgs. Mr. Walker informs us that one kist or tomb, which contained the remains of a great number of skeletons, some evidently burned, and others exhibiting no trace of fire, occupied the centre of a large cairn. Some idea may be formed of the magnitude of this great kist Avhen it is known that one of the stones which formed the side of it was sixteen feet in length, and about six feet in breadth. In this tomb were found six different human interments, Avhich occupied the eastern and western ends, the centre part being unoccupied. The bones Avere not contained in urns, but were collected together into small heaps that rested upon the " freestone flag," which invariably formed the bottom or floor of the inner tomb. The large bones, sl^ch as the arms, legs, and thighs, covered the half-calcined remains of the smaller ones, and the skull surmounted the little pyramid thus formed. Kound the margin of this heap was collected a quantity of the bones of birds, and some of the lower mammalia, together with a number of small shells, principally the land Helix ; and each of these six interments Avas kept distinct, and surrounded by small freestone flags. No Aveapon or ornament of any kind Avas discovered in this tomb. Here, then, in this A^ery remarkable tumulus of the class denominated " giants' graves," Ave have remains of nearly every form of interment employed by the aborigines of this country.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 141

As the companion tells it

Coming through Sligo, you are in a place celebrated for ancient burial remains, especially those of the Firbolgs. A man called R. C. Walker, who opened a great number of tombs in this country, examined a tumulus here that belonged to the class known as giants' graves. At the centre of a large cairn he found a great kist, or tomb, one of its side stones sixteen feet long and six feet broad. Inside were six distinct human interments, placed at the eastern and western ends, with the centre left empty. Some bones showed clear evidence of fire, others none at all. The bones were not in urns but gathered into small heaps resting on a freestone flag that formed the floor of the tomb. The large bones, the arms and legs and thighs, covered the half-calcined remains of the smaller ones, and the skull sat on top of the little pyramid thus formed. Around each heap lay bird bones, bones of lower mammals, and small shells, chiefly the land Helix. Each of the six interments was kept separate, surrounded by its own small freestone flags. No weapon or ornament of any kind was found in the tomb. Walker saw in this one remarkable tumulus remains of nearly every form of interment used by the aborigines of this country.

Hen's Castle on Lough Corrib as early stone fortification

Lough Corrib · lake or lakes · Galway

Caislean na Kirka, or the Hen's Castle, on a rock in the upper lake of Lough Corrib, is described as one of the earliest castles in Ireland with surviving remains, in a wild and picturesque setting where the author once slept as a boy.

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* By this we do not mean castles. One of the earliest castles erected in Ireland of which there exist any remains is believed to be Caislean na Kiriva, or the Hen's Castle, upon a rock in the upper lake of Lough Corrib, one of the wildest and most picturesque spots in Ireland. Some portions of the ruins of this Ijuilding still remain. We have slept tliere when a boy. See an account of this castle by Dr. Pctrie, in the Irish Penny .Journal, for July 25, 1840.
■j" Patrick certainly first preached in Meath, and prol)ably the earliest great conversion to Christianity took place there; but it should be here remarked, that it has been the boast of the Munstermen (at least for the last thousand years)

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 18

Hugh Tyrrell defends and burns Trim Castle

Trim · town · Meath

Hugh Tyrrell was left by Hugh de Lacy in defence of Trim Castle, but was obliged to abandon and burn it, a key episode in the castle's history.

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Tyrrell, Hugh, left by Hugh de Lacy in defence of Trim Castle, which he is obliged to abandon and burn, 90.
Tyrrell, Lieut., his gallant defence against a superior force in 1798, 56, 57.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 181

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, this is where Trim Castle stood, the castle Hugh de Lacy left in the hands of Hugh Tyrrell. Tyrrell was left to defend it, but in the end he was obliged to abandon it and burn it.

Identification of New Grange with Achadh Aldai

Newgrange · townland · Meath · 1834

O'Donovan and Petrie proposed that the ancient name Achadh Aldai, field of the Tuatha De Danaan ancestor Aldai, refers to what is now known as New Grange, based on annal references to Mughdhorna-Breagh rather than the Monaghan barony of Cremorne.

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* Mr. O'Donovan, in his note on Achadh Aldai, in the Annals, says : " This place is described by the Four Masters as situated in the territory of Mughdhorna-Maighen, now the barony of Cremorne, in the County Monaghan ; but it is highly probable, if not certain, that Mughdhorna-Maighen is a mistake of transcription for Mughdhorna-Breagh, and that AchacUi-Aldai is the ancient name of New Grange." It is also added in the same note, " that these mounds were first identified with these passages in the Annals, by Dr. Petrie, in his Essay on the Military Architecture of the Ancient Irish, read before the Royal Irish Academy, January, 1834." We sincerely wish, with every lover of Irish archaeology, that Dr. Petrie could be induced to publish that Essay.
204

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 122

Iron sword fragment found at Kinnafad

Kinnafad · townland · Kildare

A fragment of a long, straight iron sword found at Kinnafad is described and figured, noted as evidently of later date than the other sword types found with it. Similar swords were found at Dunshaughlin and in excavations of the Shannon.

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long; the blade, -which measures upwards of seventeen inches, is very narrow in the middle and towards the handle, but, increasing suddenly towards the top, it forms a very obtuse point, an inch and a quarter broad. A sword of the same character, but not so perfect, was found in the excavations lately made in the Shannon. Some swords of the same type, but shorter, and with parallel edges, were a feAv years ago found at Diuishaughlin. See page 15. Ancient iron swords are much rarer than bronze ones ; until very lately there was scarcely one to be found in any of our collections ; we have now four distinct forms of them: — that just described, which is the rarest; a shorter, sharp-edged sword, very like the ancient Eonian ; the heavy, broad-bladed sword, with a narrow and ornamented handle, supposed to be Danish; and the long, straight iron sword, which varies in size in different specimens, and of which a fragment of one found at Kinnafad is figured here, No. 8. This is evidently of later date than any of the others.
The brazen sword-blades found in Ireland may be classed under two heads : the long, narrow, straight one, tapering from the handle to the point, like the modern small sword ; and that with a broad belly, swelling towards the end, resembling the ancient Grecian or Phoenician.* With the two iron swords here figured were found two very perfect spear-heads also of iron,Nos. 1 and 6, and with such small sockets that we are at a loss to know what description of wood, except perhaps yew, Avas used for their handles. The brazen weapons found in connexion with these consist of the blade of a dagger, No. 2, and two bronze hatchets, commonly called celts, Nos. 3 and 5, a sort of war-axe, which was fastened on the end of a curved stick. That figured as No. 5 is a particularly fine specimen, and ornamented on the sides. The other is remarkable from its exceeding lightness, showing the great quantity of tin of which the antique metal in this instance is composed. The cut No. 4 shows one of the horse-shoes. It is peculiar in shape, remarkably oval, and

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 32

Kells: ancient Ceanannus and St. Columb's monastery foundation

Kells · town · Meath · 550

Kells, anciently called Ceanannus (head-fort), was granted to St. Columb by Dermod son of Fergus Kervaill, who founded a monastery here around 550 AD dedicated to the Virgin Mary, though no vestiges of that original structure remain.

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3972 to 3991, — and hence the King's cognomen of Finnailches, according to the bards. The celebrated Cormac Mac Art is said to have resided for some time at Kells. Dermod, the son of Fergus Kervaill, made a grant of this place to St. Columb, who founded a monastery here about the year 550, and dedicated it to the Virgin Mary. No vestiges of this structure at present exist. There are, however, some architectural remains here, of about that period, of surpassing interest; of these perhaps the most interesting is that figured in the adjoining wood-cut, generally known as St. Columb's House, a small, arched, and stone-roofed building.*
This is supposed to have been used as a small chapel or oratory, as well as a dwelling-house, like what is called St. Kevin's Kitchen at Glendalough, and the house of St. Flannan ct Killaloe. Several descriptions of this building have been given.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 88

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kells, you are in a place the old records called Ceanannus, the head-fort. Cormac Mac Art is said to have resided here for some time. Around 550, Dermod, the son of Fergus Kervaill, granted this place to St. Columb, who founded a monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. No vestiges of that original structure remain. There are, however, architectural remains here from about that period, the most interesting being St. Columb's House, a small, arched, stone-roofed building. It is supposed to have been used as a chapel or oratory as well as a dwelling-house.

King William views Drogheda from Tullyallen Hill

Tullyallen · town · Louth · 1690

Colonel Bellingham's Journal describes accompanying King William to the hill of Tullyallen (Tullahescar), from which he viewed Drogheda and the Irish camp before proceeding to Oldbridge.

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" The 30th, very hott, I called at Mr. Townley's in our march towards Boyne. I was for some time with the King on the hill of Tullahescar, from whence he view'd Drogheda, and
* Memoirs in Clarke's Life of King James II., vol. ii. p. 395, et seq.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 151

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Tullyallen, this is the hill Colonel Bellingham brought King William to on the 30th, 1690. Bellingham's journal says he was "with the King on the hill of Tullahescar, from whence he view'd Drogheda." The record ends there, before telling what came next.

Lady Well at Glyn and its Patron fair

Glyn · townland · Offaly

At a place called Glyn, where three roads meet, stands 'Lady Well', a fountain dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, once a memorable spot shaded by a splendid sycamore tree hung with votive offerings; a fair and Patron is held here in harvest.

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tivation. Two objects claim our attention : upon the right hand side of the road, the site of an ancient castle, of which nothing now remains but a cairn of stones ; and a little farther on, Toberaulin, or " the Beautiful Well," another sacred spring shaded by graceful thorns, near which we again join the lower road, which runs parallel with the river as we approach it at the bridge of Ballybogan. Here, at a place called Glyn, where three roads meet in an open space shaded by trees, — one of those calm, peaceful, liomestcad spots, so frequently met Avith in England, — we find "Lady Well," a fountain dedicated to " the Blessed Virgin," and a very memorable spot in days gone by. It immediately adjoins the road, and is shaded by a splendid sycamore tree, to which a few^ votive offerings might, in former days, be seen attached. A fair and Patron is held here in harvest.
Holy wells abound in this locality, and assist to feed the growing stream, so that the river becomes doubly consecrated, not only by the ruins of sacred edifices which cluster upon its banks, but through the Avaters which flow into it from so many hallowed springs. Besides the Well of Trinity, and these two just mentioned, we have Tobercro, and also Carbury Well, and not far from the point where the Yellow River pours its waters into the Boyne we have upon the Kildare side the Well of Tobernakill; — six in all, baptizing the infant Boyne.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 35

Liscarton Castle held by Sir William Talbot

Liscarton · street · Meath · 1633

Liscarton Castle, a still partly inhabited stronghold of great former importance, belonged in 1633 to Sir William Talbot, Bart., who held it of the king by knight service.

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This castle appears to have been, from its strength and extent, of great importance. We know little of its history, except that in 1633 it belonged to Sir William Talbot, Bart., who held it of the king in capite per servitium militare. It originally consisted of two large quadrangular towers, connected together by a large hall, the roof of which no longer exists, but its position is shown by marks in the wall at either end. The thatched, modern-looking building shown in the accompanying cut is a portion of one of the towers much reduced in height. The church is remarkable for the extreme beauty of its eastern and western windows, each of which consists of one great light, divided by a shaft branching off on a level with the spring of the arch into two members, which join the archhead about the centre of the curve. An exquisite variety of

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 96

Lord Netterville's ornamental grounds at Dowth

Dowth · townland · Meath

Adjoining the old castle and church at Dowth are ramparts, baths, walks, and ponds constructed by the eccentric late Lord Netterville, together with some of the finest mulberry trees in the region.

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Adamnan, to which we alluded at page 123. Immediately adjoining are the ramparts, baths, walks, and ponds, made by the late eccentric Lord Netterville, together with some of the finest mulberry trees in this part of the kingdom.
The tourist should visit a small cave, formed with recesses, similar to New Grange, in the pleasure grounds of Netterville; and two other remains, a small circular moat and a fort, in its vicinity. All these antiquarian riches occur within the space of about half a mile; or if we were to extend ovir range to the mill

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 127

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here at Dowth, the late eccentric Lord Netterville laid out ornamental grounds with ramparts, baths, walks, and ponds, alongside some of the finest mulberry trees in this part of the kingdom. A small cave with recesses similar to Newgrange sits within the pleasure grounds, and a circular moat and a fort stand nearby. All these antiquarian riches occur within about half a mile of each other.

Magdalen Steeple, sole remnant of Dominican friary church

Drogheda · town · Louth

Magdalen Steeple stands near Sunday's Gate on the northern side of Drogheda, the only remaining part of the Dominican friary church that once stood there. It adjoins arches identified as remains of the old town wall, but the surrounding area is described as extremely poor and neglected.

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Magdalen Steeple, figured below, the only remnant of the church of the Dominican friary which once stood here. It occupies an elevated position upon the northern side of the city, near Sunday's Gate, and is immediately adjoining a series of arches pointed out as the remains of the town wall. It is now surrounded by the most miserable hovels, inhabited by the most wretched portion of the population, and not only is the adjoining locality a disgrace to the town, but the very site itself stands more in need of the efforts of a Sanitary Commission than any other place that we know of in the British dominions.
As soon as the Corporation of Drogheda cleanse their city, we hope to conduct the Boyne tourists round some of its other memorable ruins.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 174

As the companion tells it

Up ahead on the northern side of Drogheda, near Sunday's Gate, stands the Magdalen Steeple, the only remnant of the church of the Dominican friary that once stood there. It sits beside a series of arches pointed out as remains of the old town wall. The steeple occupies an elevated position, but the ground around it is described as surrounded by miserable hovels, inhabited by the most wretched portion of the population. The author calls the adjoining locality a disgrace to the town and says the site itself stands more in need of the efforts of a Sanitary Commission than any other place known of in the British dominions.

Old man at Bective on the Danish origin of raths

Bective · townland · Meath

An old man interviewed at Bective explained the popular belief that raths were built by the Danes, who lived underground in the forths after being weakened in battle.

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There has long existed an opinion among the reading and middle classes in this country, that these raths are of Danish origin ; but, though still described as such by some of the peasantry, no person of any antiquarian knowledge now believes them to be any other than Pagan structures, erected by the Firbolg, Tuatha De Danaan, Scotic, or Milesian population, and constructed long prior to the first Danish invasion of Ireland. Conversing with an old man at Bective lately, we asked his opinion of these remains: " Ough," says he, "sure it's well known they were med by the Danes, who, when they were nearly bet all out, and grown mighty wake entirely in the couuthry, lived under ground in thim same forths."
Besides the very general belief that exists even among the upper classes of society — an opinion, by the way, chiefly ascribable to the writings of Sir Thomas Molyneux — of the Danish origin of these raths, a certain degree of superstitious reverence attaches to them in the minds of the peasantry, by whom they are often styled " fairy raths" and fairy circles, and are believed

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 48

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, an old man at Bective once gave his explanation for the ringforts you see across the Irish countryside. There was a long-held belief, especially among the reading and middle classes, that the raths were of Danish origin, though antiquarians by this time considered them pagan structures built by the Firbolg, Tuatha De Danaan, Scotic, or Milesian peoples, long before the first Danish invasion. The writer of The Beauties of the Boyne asked the old man his opinion. He replied, "Sure it's well known they were med by the Danes, who, when they were nearly bet all out, and grown mighty wake entirely in the country, lived under ground in them same forths." So in his telling, the Danes built the raths and retreated underground into them once they had been weakened in battle. The Danish-origin belief was partly traced to the writings of Sir Thomas Molyneux. The peasantry also held a superstitious reverence for these places, calling them fairy raths and fairy circles.

O'Rourke's pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick

near Croagh Patrick · mountain or mountain range · Mayo · 1152

At the time of his wife's elopement, Tiernan O'Rourke was said to be on pilgrimage at Croagh Patrick, not Lough Derg as commonly stated, and was reportedly enraged with shame rather than sorrow.

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O'Rourke was on a pilgrimage at Croagh-Patrick at the time, and not at Lough-Dearg, as has generally been stated; and the Irish historians inform us that the Princess of Brefney left her husband's roof, and iled with the King of Leinster, taking with her her ornaments and her cattle, with the knowledge and oven at the instigation of her own brother, O'JMelaghlin, son of the King of Meath. The Annals of the Four Masters inform us tliat " Dearvorgilla (i. e. the wife of Tiernau O'Uourke), daughter of INIurrough O'Melaghlin, died in the monastery of Drogheda [Mellefont], in the eighty-fifth year of her ago." A. 1). 1 193. t It should be remembered also that Mac IMorough was not expelled i'rom his kingdom ibr several years after.
Civil wars, family feuds, and the rivalry and jealousy of clans and cliieftains, seem, therefore, to have had as marked an iniluence on the destiny of our unhaiipy country at that time, as the jealousy of husbands and lovers.

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 22

St. Bernard's Chapel described

Mellifont · townland · Louth · 1755

St. Bernard's Chapel at Mellifont is a richly decorated Norman-style crypt with groined roof, carved capitals, dog's-tooth moulding, and an elaborately carved doorway. Wright's Louthiana (1755) recorded its blue marble doorway before it was sold and dismantled.

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trave for the northern window, spring from grotesque heads, elaborately carved, and which appear as if pressed down by the superincumbent weight. A fillet of dog's-tooth moulding surrounds the internal sash. A projecting moulding courses round the wall of the chapel, about two feet from the ground, which, while it dips down to admit the splayed sill of the upper or original windows, continues unbroken by the lower ones, an additional proof that the latter did not exist in the first plan of the building. Three sets of short clustered pillars, four feet high, one in the centre, and one in each angle, spring from this course, and terminate in elaborately carved floral capitals, which differ slightly one from another. The centre rod of this cluster descends as far as the floor. From these spring the ribs which form the groining of the roof. The stone of which they are composed, as well as much of that used in the other buildings at Mellifont, is probably foreign, as were, very likely, the artists who carved them. Where the groins meet above the altar, we observe an aperture, surrounded by a star-fish ornament, from which the lamp which assisted to illuminate this sombre crypt was suspended. The grand architectural feature, and most elaborate piece of carving in St. Bernard's Chapel was the door-way, formed of a cluster of pillars, very deeply revealed on the inside, but apparently plain outside, which strengthens the idea that this beautiful little chapel was enclosed within the other buildings. Nearly the whole of the western end of the chapel has fallen, allowing the visitor to obtain from without the view given in the accurate illustration opposite, so that nothing but the foundations of this very splendid doorway now remain. A figure of it has, however, been preserved in Wright's Louthiana, published in 1755, where we read that it was " all of blue marble, richly ornamented and gilt;" but which, the author adds, " I was informed was sold and going to be taken to pieces Avhen I was there." All the pillars and carved stone work of St. Bernard's Chapel were at one time painted in the most brilliant colours, the capitals light blue, the pillars themselves red; portions of this paint still remain in the crevices and among the foliage. Whether such decoration formed part of the original design, or was subsequently resorted to, it is not now easy to determine (see p. 305). There are three buttresses upon each side on the exterior of this building, and upon its

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 164

St Finian's baptism at the confluence of two rivers

Roscor · townland · Tyrone

According to tradition, St Finian's parents sent him to be baptized at the Church of Roscor by Bishop Fortkern, but he was instead baptized by St Abban at a place where two rivers unite into one.

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Dr. Lanigan writes, — his parents were Christians, " and sent him towards the Church of Roscor, to be there baptized by Bishop Fortkern. The women who were carrying him were, it is said, met on the way by the priest, St. Abban, who, having inquired whither they Avere going, and what Avas their errand, undertook to baptize him, which he did at a place where two rivers unite into one." From this and other passages bearing a like interpretation, we are inclined to think the early Irish Christians employed immersion as their mode of baptism, and some of our very oldest fonts, particularly one still remaining in the churchyard of Tallaght, in the county of Dublin, would appear to have been constructed for that purpose.
At a later period the abbey was dedicated to St. Peter, but what the original buildings were we can now but conjecture, probably a missionary chapel, a few monastic cells, and a cloictheach, or round tower. There was also a derthech, or penitentiary, the burning of which, in the eleventh century, has been recorded. We have constantly wondered that no trace of a round tower had been discovered in this sacred spot ; but we learn from the Annals of Clonmacnoise and the Four Masters, that the cloictheach, or steeple of Cluain loraird, fell to the ground in the year 1039- Archdall understands this to be the steeple of the church, and so indeed it was, though a separate building from it. For upwards of a thousand years the annals of Clonard have come down to us;

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 42

St. Laurence's Gate, a fine surviving fortification

Drogheda · town · Louth

St. Laurence's Gate on the northern side of the river at Drogheda consists of two circular towers with a connecting curtain wall, and is described as one of the finest specimens of its kind in Ireland despite being built of small stones.

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Drogheda was a strongly fortified city, and considerable portions of its walls, with two of its gates, still remain. St. Laurence's Gate, upon the northern side of the river, is here shown from the outside. It consists of two circular towers, with a connecting curtain wall over the arch, and, although built of small stones, it is one of the finest specimens of its kind in Ireland. " The walls of Dro-

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 172

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Drogheda, you are near one of the finest surviving gates in Ireland. Drogheda was a strongly fortified city, and considerable portions of its walls and two of its gates still remain. St. Laurence's Gate stands on the northern side of the river, two circular towers with a connecting curtain wall over the arch. Though built of small stones, it is one of the finest specimens of its kind in the country.

Stones from the Mourne Mountains Used at New Grange

Newgrange · townland · Meath

Some stones within and around the New Grange tumulus bear water-worn marks and were likely taken from the bed of the Boyne, while others, being basaltic, were transported from the Mourne mountains.

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the objects Avithin most worthy of attention. This mound is hollow ; it contains a large chamber, formed by stones of enormous magnitude, and is accessible through a narrow passage, also Ibrmed of stones of great size, placed together without mortar or cement; and, considering their bulk and the positions they occupy, exciting our astonishment how such Cyclopean masonry covild have been erected by a people who were, in all probability, unacquainted with those mechanical powers so necessary in the erection of modern buildings. Moreover, although some of the stones, both within and without this tumulus, bear marks of being water-worn, and were probably lifted from the bed of the Boyne, others belong to a class of rock not found in the neighbourhood at all ; some are basaltic, and others must have been transported here from the Mourne mountains.
When this opening was first discovered it is now difficult to say. Sir Thomas Molyneux, who is generally, but erroneously, supposed to have first described this monument, states that the opening was accidentally discovered, by removing some of the stones to make a pavement in the neighbourhood. The earliest describer of New Grange was Edward Llhwyd, the Welsh antiquary, and keeper of the Ashmolean Museum, in Oxford, who, in a letter, dated Sligo, I2th March, 1699, and published by Rowlands, in his "• Mona Antiqua Restaurata," gave the following account of it, which we quote, the more particularly as he evidently had examined it carefully, and in order that its present state may be compared with its condition 150 years ago* " I also met with one monument in this kingdom, very singular ; it stands at a place called New Grange, near Drogheda, and is a mount, or barrow, of very

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 115

Termonfeckin as termon land of St. Feichin

Termonfeckin · town · Louth · 600–699

Termonfeckin was the termon or herenach land of St. Feichin, who flourished in the seventh century, and Donough O'Carroll, founder of Mellifont, established the first church there.

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To those who have sufScient time to spare, after visiting Mellifont and Monasterboice, we would recommend an excursion to Termonfechen, a very noted locality, still containing some objects of antiquarian interest, within little more than three miles of Drogheda, upon the northern or Louth side of the Boyne. The ruins of its ancient castle are worthy of inspection, and there are many associations of historic value connected with its origin and annals. As its name implies, it was the termon or herenach land of St. Feichin, who flourished in the seventh century. Donough 0' Carroll, the founder of Mellifont, also established " the first church of Termann Feichin." This place was long the country residence of the Archbishops of Armagh, and the last occupant of it was the learned Ussher, who died here in 1617. Originally there existed a considerable town here, situated on the small stream adjoining, and near which the Dundalk Eailway now runs. The present church is crowded with monuments of the M'Clintocks, Brabazons, Pentlands, and other families that are or have been resident in the vicinity. In the churchyard is an ancient sculptured stone cross worthy of inspection.*
Leaving the field of Oldbridge, Mellifont, and Monasterboice, and passing down the left bank of the river, we now approach

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 171

The corragh still used at Drogheda bridge

Drogheda · town · Louth

At the bridge of Drogheda, one side still shows the ancient wicker corragh with horse-skin covering, unchanged in design for perhaps a thousand years, while the other side has the modern screw-steamer, illustrating persistence of old customs.

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been hallowed by events the most interesting in our country's annals. So memorable in ancient history, and so rich in monuments of the past is it, that we fear not to assert that the history of Ireland might be written in tracing its banks. Many a broad smiling plain through which it flows, now green with waving corn, or perfumed and decorated by the wild flowers of a pasture land, or by some delicate female hand cultivated into the elegant garden, in the bowers of which the birds of spring are singing, was once the scene of mortal strife, and crimsoned with the blood of warriors, where the clang of battle, the shout of the victorious, the groan of the dying, and the prayer of the suppliant, alone were heard. Scarcely a ford upon this river but was disputed in days gone by ; every pass was a Thermopylae-, the bardic annals teem with descriptions of its battles ; the fairy lore of other days yet lingers by its tranquil waters; and scarcely a knoll, or mound, or rock, or bank in its vicinity but still retains its legend. The peasant even yet paddles his corragh, or frail canoe of skins, across its waters, and many of the superstitious rites and customs of our ancestors are still observed by the people of that district. How time runs on, and science widens the circle of her power, yet man and many of his customs remain the same for centuries;— on one side of the bridge of Drogheda may still be seen the wicker corragh, with its horse-skin covering, the same in design and execution, perhaps, as floated there a thousand years ago ; and on the other we find the latest invented and most improved screw-steamer!

Internet Archive beautiesofboynei00wild, Chapter 14

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Drogheda, the bridge over the Boyne holds something striking. On one side of the bridge you can still see the wicker corragh, a frail canoe of skins, with its horse-skin covering, the same in design and execution, perhaps, as floated there a thousand years ago. On the other side stands the latest invented screw-steamer. The old and the new sit side by side, and the contrast tells you something about this river. The author of this passage, writing in a book called The Beauties of the Boyne, claimed the history of Ireland might be written by tracing its banks. Scarcely a ford upon this river but was disputed in days gone by. The bardic annals teem with descriptions of its battles, and the fairy lore of other days yet lingers by its tranquil waters. Many a broad smiling plain through which it flows, now green with waving corn, was once the scene of mortal strife and crimsoned with the blood of warriors. The peasant even yet paddles the corragh across its waters, and many of the superstitious rites and customs of our ancestors are still observed by the people of that district. How time runs on, and science widens the circle of her power, yet man and many of his customs remain the same for centuries.

The Beauties of the Boyne, and its Tributary, the Blackwater

The stories, best first

Portland's Foot Cross at Slane Bridge and Join Cavalry

Rossnaree identified as principal shallow ford across the Boyne

Ruins of Carbury Castle

St. Columbkill's House at Kells described by Petrie

Stone coffin containing finger and toe bones at Kilbride, Wicklow

St Patrick landed at the Boyne's mouth and preached at Slane

Templar skeleton found at Larne with iron sword

The Duke of Wellington's residence at Dublin-Gate-Street, Trim

The Stone Circle Around New Grange

Tober Patrick Well and Its Rising Waters

Trim's ruins, abbeys, castles and ecclesiastical history

Trinity Well, the source of the River Boyne

The passage of New Grange described

Beautiful skull and urn found near the Rock of Dunamase

Corinthian column erected at Trim fair-green, 1847

Duleek as first bishop's see in Ireland

Fair of Tailtean continued until about eighty years ago

Mr. Bolton removes Clady's ancient font from being ground away

New Grange Cairn Described

Plague of 1447 kills the Prior of Ballybogan

Raymond le Gros repairs the castles of Trim and Duleek

Riverstown Castle's masonry and 'murder-holes'

Round tower (cloictheach) of Clonard fell in 1039

Source of the Boyne at Trinity Well, Carbury

Stones of Dowth removed for road-building

Superstitious lavatory trough at Clonard graveyard

Tailtean sports, marriages and St. Patrick traditions

The Battle of Bolg-Boinne

The wayside cross of Nevinstown and the Cusack family

Tomb of Lord Bellew, wounded at Aughrim, at Duleek

Tumulus of Knockeagh near Rush

Archdall's 1786 description of Clonard abbey ruins

Bective Abbey ruins on the Boyne

Boan's grave among the royal cemetery of Brugh na Boinne

Church of St. Kieran and its termon crosses at Castlekieran

Cloghlea stone circle remnant

Crossing of the Mattock River at Monknewtown

Danish raids on Duleek's abbey and church

Demolition of the tea-house to access the Dowth chamber

Donaghmore round tower described

Excavation of the Knockmaroon Tumulus, Phoenix Park

Firbolg giants' grave tumulus examined in County Sligo

Hen's Castle on Lough Corrib as early stone fortification

Hugh Tyrrell defends and burns Trim Castle

Identification of New Grange with Achadh Aldai

Iron sword fragment found at Kinnafad

Kells: ancient Ceanannus and St. Columb's monastery foundation

King William views Drogheda from Tullyallen Hill

Lady Well at Glyn and its Patron fair

Liscarton Castle held by Sir William Talbot

Lord Netterville's ornamental grounds at Dowth

Magdalen Steeple, sole remnant of Dominican friary church

Old man at Bective on the Danish origin of raths

O'Rourke's pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick

St. Bernard's Chapel described

St Finian's baptism at the confluence of two rivers

St. Laurence's Gate, a fine surviving fortification

Stones from the Mourne Mountains Used at New Grange

Termonfeckin as termon land of St. Feichin

The corragh still used at Drogheda bridge