Bray & environs

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. James II's flight through Puck's Castle after the Boyne

   Puck's Castle · castle · Dublin · 1690

   Tradition holds that James II, fleeing after the Battle of the Boyne, slept one night at Puck's Castle on the north slope of Shankill, then next day, fearing ambush in the woods of Killruddery, seized a boat on Killiney strand and coasted Bray Head to reach Wicklow by sea.

   Read the passage

   These facts may explain the tradition that James II., a fugitive after the Battle of the Boyne, slept one night at Puck’s Castle on the north slope of Shankhill (see map), and early next day, fearing an ambuscade in the woods of Killruddery, seized a boat on the Killiney strand, and coasting Bray Head, thus reached Wicklow by sea, to pass on finally to Waterford and France.

   The title, Baron Chaworth, which confers the right to a seat in the House of Lords, was conferred, in 1831, on John Chambre Brabazon, the grandfather of the present owner, Reginald, the twelfth Earl, whose name is so well known in philanthropic and political circles. The work of his lordship, and that of the Countess also, in many departments, having for their object the amelioration of human suffering, and the promotion of education, are too well-known to call for any special mention here.

   Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 19

   As the companion tells it

   Puck's Castle is right here on the north slope of Shankill. Tradition holds that James the Second, a fugitive after the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, slept one night at this castle. Early the next day, fearing an ambuscade in the woods of Killruddery, he seized a boat on the Killiney strand and coasted round Bray Head, reaching Wicklow by sea. From there he passed on finally to Waterford and France.

2. Fenians halted at Enniskerry by parish priest

   Enniskerry · town · Wicklow · 1867

   On the day of the battle of Tallaght, Fenians advancing on Enniskerry were stopped on the road above the village by parish priest Rev. Father O'Dwyer, who forbade further advance crucifix in hand. The insurgents fled over the mountains to Tallaght and surrendered to General Lord Strathnairn.

   Read the passage

   On the day of the well-known battle of Tallaght,* the Fenians were advancing on the village of Enniskerry, when the then parish priest, the late Rev. Father O’Dwyer, stopped them on the road above Enniskerry, and, crucifix in hand, forbade further advance. The daunted crowd of insurgents streamed away by the Glen Cullin Road, and passing over the mountains to Tallaght, surrendered there to General Lord Strathnairn, who at that time commanded the forces in Ireland.

   Returning to the more immediate history of the house, we find that the destruction essayed in vain by the insurgents was partially accomplished by a disastrous accidental fire, involving the loss of most of the records of the house, thus leaving a gap from the year 1740 to the present Viscount’s time, only to be approximately filled up from collateral sources of information in the British Museum, the records in Dublin Castle and elsewhere.

   Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 23

3. Earl of Desmond's benighted romance near Tralee

   Tralee · townland · Kerry · 1418

   Thomas, sixth Earl of Desmond, was benighted while hunting between Tralee and Newcastle and became the guest of William McCormick, later marrying his daughter against his family's wishes. The dispute forced him into exile in France in 1418, where he died of grief.

   Read the passage

   which they did not have the arranging ; and so virulent a form did their dissatisfaction take, that the unfortunate Earl was obliged to retire to France in 1418, resigning perforce his position in favour of his younger brother. He died in France, largely, it is said, through grief at his enforced expatriation. Of his two sons, Maurice and John, the former became the father of two in his turn, Robert and Maurice, the latter of which founded the family of Fitzgeralds of Brogil, while the former, Robert, returning to Ireland and seeking for his rights, had the misfortune to meet and slay in single combat Gerald, the White Knight (second son of Gerald, the then Earl of Desmond), at a place called Athdare (the Ford of Oaks), in the Co. Limerick. The slain knight being very far indeed from a “ kinless loon,” the country quickly became an undesirable place for Robert, who fled away to the Scotland of Robert the Bruce, assumed the name of Adair, after the scene of his exploit, and married Arabella, daughter of Campbell, Lord of Argyle and Lome, thus justifying, at least on the maternal side, the family motto, “ Pax et amor."

   The son of this union, Sir Nial Adair, was the first to assume the title of Laird of Kinhilt, which the family retained until their return to Ireland in 1630, to re-establish habitation there. In process of time, through the Bellgrove branch of the family, at length arose Robin Adair, the founder of Hollybrooke, whose name is enshrined in the words of the wellknown song, “ Robin Adair,” set to the beautiful Irish air, “ Aileen Aroon.”

   Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 17

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Tralee, Thomas, the sixth Earl of Desmond, was benighted while hunting between here and Newcastle and became the guest of William McCormick. He married McCormick's daughter against his family's wishes, and their displeasure was so virulent that he was forced to retire to France in 1418, resigning his position to his younger brother. He died in France, largely, it is said, through grief at his enforced expatriation. His two sons were Maurice and John. Maurice became the father of two in his turn, Robert and Maurice. The younger Maurice founded the family of the Fitzgeralds of Brogil. Robert returned to Ireland seeking his rights but had the misfortune to slay Gerald, the White Knight, second son of the then Earl of Desmond, in single combat at Athdare, the Ford of Oaks, in Limerick. The slain knight being far from a kinless man, Robert fled to the Scotland of Robert the Bruce, assumed the name Adair after the scene of his exploit, and married Arabella, daughter of Campbell, Lord of Argyle and Lome. Their son, Sir Niall Adair, was the first Laird of Kinhilt, a title held until the family returned to Ireland in 1630. Through the Bellgrove branch arose Robin Adair, founder of Hollybrooke, whose name is enshrined in the song "Robin Adair," set to the Irish air "Aileen Aroon."

4. Priest killed acting as mediator during siege of Powerscourt Castle

   Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow

   According to ancient records, the parish priest rushed among besieging insurgents attempting to mediate, and was fatally struck by a volley fired by the castle's defenders in the dusk, unknown to them until the next day.

   Read the passage

   The insurgents, having attacked and surrounded the Castle, were attempting to set it on fire, when the priest of the parish, endeavouring to act as mediator, rushed in among them, just at the moment when, in the dusk of the evening, a volley was fired by the besieged with fatal effect for the unfortunate peacemaker, who thus fell dead in the discharge of his noble duty. Neither his presence nor his unhappy fate were known to the defenders of the Castle until the following day.

   * Mutatis mutandis : the remarks made ?e Slieve Cullin obtain here also. Fert : meaning burial place.

   Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 23

5. Fenians surrender at Tallaght

   near Tallaght · town · Dublin · 1867

   Fenian insurgents, turned back from Enniskerry, passed over the mountains via the Glen Cullin Road to Tallaght, where they surrendered to General Lord Strathnairn, then commander of forces in Ireland.

   Read the passage

   On the day of the well-known battle of Tallaght,* the Fenians were advancing on the village of Enniskerry, when the then parish priest, the late Rev. Father O’Dwyer, stopped them on the road above Enniskerry, and, crucifix in hand, forbade further advance. The daunted crowd of insurgents streamed away by the Glen Cullin Road, and passing over the mountains to Tallaght, surrendered there to General Lord Strathnairn, who at that time commanded the forces in Ireland.

   Returning to the more immediate history of the house, we find that the destruction essayed in vain by the insurgents was partially accomplished by a disastrous accidental fire, involving the loss of most of the records of the house, thus leaving a gap from the year 1740 to the present Viscount’s time, only to be approximately filled up from collateral sources of information in the British Museum, the records in Dublin Castle and elsewhere.

   Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 23

6. Fatal duel at Athdare, Co. Limerick

   Adare · townland · Limerick

   Robert, grandson of the exiled Earl of Desmond, slew Gerald the White Knight in single combat at Athdare (the Ford of Oaks) in Co. Limerick while seeking his rights. He was forced to flee to Scotland afterward, where he took the name Adair.

   Read the passage

   which they did not have the arranging ; and so virulent a form did their dissatisfaction take, that the unfortunate Earl was obliged to retire to France in 1418, resigning perforce his position in favour of his younger brother. He died in France, largely, it is said, through grief at his enforced expatriation. Of his two sons, Maurice and John, the former became the father of two in his turn, Robert and Maurice, the latter of which founded the family of Fitzgeralds of Brogil, while the former, Robert, returning to Ireland and seeking for his rights, had the misfortune to meet and slay in single combat Gerald, the White Knight (second son of Gerald, the then Earl of Desmond), at a place called Athdare (the Ford of Oaks), in the Co. Limerick. The slain knight being very far indeed from a “ kinless loon,” the country quickly became an undesirable place for Robert, who fled away to the Scotland of Robert the Bruce, assumed the name of Adair, after the scene of his exploit, and married Arabella, daughter of Campbell, Lord of Argyle and Lome, thus justifying, at least on the maternal side, the family motto, “ Pax et amor."

   The son of this union, Sir Nial Adair, was the first to assume the title of Laird of Kinhilt, which the family retained until their return to Ireland in 1630, to re-establish habitation there. In process of time, through the Bellgrove branch of the family, at length arose Robin Adair, the founder of Hollybrooke, whose name is enshrined in the words of the wellknown song, “ Robin Adair,” set to the beautiful Irish air, “ Aileen Aroon.”

   Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 17

7. Roman Soldiers' Graves in the Bray Sand Dunes

   Bray · town · Wicklow · 82

   The author argues that six tall bodies buried in the sand dunes near Bray, each with a coin (Charon's fee) on the breastbone, are tangible evidence of a Roman scouting expedition to the Irish coast.

   Read the passage

   Incidentally Tacitus mentions Irish ports and havens as being more frequented than those of Britain. It is not unreasonable to suppose that during the remaining Roman occupation of Britain, scouting expeditions were equipped to touch at various points along our east coast, following the well-known trade routes ; and that the six tall fellows laid to rest in the sand dunes, each with Charon’s fee on his breastbone, presented a tangible evidence of a visitation from that mighty military people whose name and dominion were known and feared from furthest Ind to the shores of the Deucalidonian Ocean.

   Passing the dubious and controversial subjects of the reconciliation of Ptolemaic and bardic nomenclature for tribes and sites, we come to the matter of greatest interest to ourselves, viz., of what manner of men our ancient forbears were, and how they comported themselves, for then, as always, doubtless existed brave men and fair women who

   Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 2

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Bray in Wicklow, the sand dunes along this coast hold a curious burial. Six tall men were laid to rest here in Roman times, each with a coin placed on his breastbone, the fare for Charon to carry the dead across the river. The author of this passage argues these graves are tangible evidence of a Roman scouting expedition that reached the Irish coast. Tacitus wrote that Irish ports and havens were more frequented than those of Britain, and the author supposes that during the Roman occupation of Britain, scouting parties followed well-known trade routes along the east coast. These six soldiers, buried with the rites of Rome, would represent a visitation from that mighty military people whose name and dominion were known and feared from furthest Ind to the shores of the Deucalidonian Ocean.

8. Smugglers' hideout at the Brandy Hole cave

   Bray · town · Wicklow · 1780–1800

   Towards the close of the eighteenth century, only two houses stood on Bray's sand dunes, and a cave known as the Brandy Hole served as a smugglers' resort. The cave, since nearly destroyed by the railway, reportedly had an inland opening near the old church, which may have served as a temporary cellar for the smugglers.

   Read the passage

   About that time, the cave known as the Brandy Hole (since nearly obliterated by the railway), was the resort of smugglers, and was said to possess an inland opening not far from the old church, which latter may, on occasion, have served as a temporary cellar for these gentry, whose familiarity with spirits of

   * Fassaroe : red wilderness.

   Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 3

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Bray, back around 1780 there were only two houses on the sand dunes. The cave called the Brandy Hole was a smugglers' resort, nearly destroyed later by the railway. It was said to have an inland opening near the old church, which may have served them as a temporary cellar.

9. Kavanaghs dispossessed and executed after fierce fight

   Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow

   The Kavanagh clan seized Powerscourt Castle with 140 men after Henry VIII granted it to the Talbot family, but were dispossessed by Sir George Stanley following a fierce fight and sent as prisoners to Dublin where they were executed.

   Read the passage

   Next, Henry VIII., having granted it to a branch of the Talbot family, the turn of the Kavanaghs came to seize and garrison it with 140 of their clan. They, in turn, after a fierce fight, were dispossessed by Sir George Stanley, and having been sent prisoners to Dublin, were afterwards executed there.

   It is clear that the present house is built on the site of the old castle, for some of the central rooms have walls eight to ten feet thick, which must have formed part of that ancient structure.

   Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 23

10. Bloody Bank at Ravenswell - site of ancient battle

    Ravenswell · townland · Wicklow · 1402

    The gravelly bluff known as 'Bloody Bank' near the Ravenswell convent entrance was supposedly named after a great fight with the Danes, or possibly after the 1402 battle between Dublin citizens under provost John Drake and the O'Tooles and O'Byrnes, resulting in the latter's defeat with great slaughter.

    Read the passage

    The position of Ravenswell entrance gate may well suggest far other than peaceful thoughts of doing good works, for here practically terminates the gravelly Bluff, known as “ Bloody Bank,” supposed to have been so called from a great fight having taken place here with the Danes. Possibly, however, the name may have arisen from the well-known battle between the citizens of Dublin, under their provost, John Drake, and the O’Tooles and O’Byrnes, which took place in 1402, and resulted in a defeat, with great slaughter, of the latter.

    Proceeding down the road towards the bridge, the rejuvenated old Castle of Bray will be noticed. It represents a general type, supposed to have been built or reconstructed in Tudor times, to maintain lines of communication from the inroads of the Mountain Septs — a sort of ancient block-house.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 10

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, the gravelly bluff known as Bloody Bank comes to an end near the Ravenswell entrance gate. The name is supposed to come from a great fight that took place here with the Danes. It may instead refer to the battle of 1402, when the citizens of Dublin under their provost John Drake fought the O'Tooles and the O'Byrnes and defeated them with great slaughter.

11. Fassaroe Castle and the O'Toole dispossession

    Fassaroe · townland · Wicklow

    Fassaroe Castle was originally built by the O'Tooles but passed to Peter Talbot after the attainder of Richard Fitzgerald, whose family is said to have forcibly dispossessed the O'Tooles. On petition of Turlough and Art O'Toole, Henry VIII's government induced Talbot to restore other lands but he retained Fassaroe.

    Read the passage

    Those of Old Court and Castle Street have already been noted. That of«Eassaroe, a little to the left, inside the entrance gate, has also been mentioned. It does not possess any special structural detail, but has some historical interest. Originally built by the O’Toole’s, we find it passing into the hands of Peter Talbot, captain and governor of part of the Dublin Marches, after the attainder of Richard Fitzgerald, whose family is said to have forcibly dispossessed the O’Tooles of it. And when a little later, on the petition of the brothers Turlough and Art O’Toole, the Government of Henry VIII. induced Talbot, “in gentle sort,” to restore the lands of Powerscourt, Cookstown, Killegar and Kilgarron to them, he was permitted to retain those of Fassaghroe.

    For fuller particulars and much interesting information about the Fercullen district, see a paper by T. P. Le Fanu, Esq., B.A., on “The Royal Forest of Glencree,” published in the proceedings of The Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland, (part 3, vol III., 5th series — 3rd quarter, Sept., 1893). This castle makes its last historical appearance as one of the many reduced by Cromwell. Permission to inspect may be obtained from R. M. Barrington, Esq., LL.D., Fassaroe House.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 8

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here stands what is left of Fassaroe Castle. It does not possess any special structural detail, but it has some historical interest. Originally it was built by the O'Tooles. Then it passed into the hands of Peter Talbot, captain and governor of part of the Dublin Marches, after the attainder of Richard Fitzgerald. The Fitzgerald family is said to have forcibly dispossessed the O'Tooles of it. A little later, on the petition of the brothers Turlough and Art O'Toole, the government of Henry the Eighth induced Talbot, in the source's words, "in gentle sort," to restore the lands of Powerscourt, Cookstown, Killegar and Kilgarron to them. But he was permitted to retain those of Fassaroe. For fuller particulars, the source points to a paper by T. P. Le Fanu on the Royal Forest of Glencree, published in the proceedings of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland in September 1893. This castle makes its last historical appearance as one of the many reduced by Cromwell. Permission to inspect could be obtained from R. M. Barrington of Fassaroe House.

12. Powerscourt Castle seized by O'Tooles and O'Byrnes

    Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow · 1554

    In 1554 the castle of Powerscourt was surprised and taken by the O'Tooles and O'Byrnes, though they could not hold it for long. The Kavanaghs later seized and garrisoned it with 140 clansmen before being dispossessed by Sir George Stanley and executed in Dublin.

    Read the passage

    In 1554 it was surprised and taken by the everdaring and turbulent O’Tooles and O’Byrnes, who, however, were not able to maintain possession long.

    Next, Henry VIII., having granted it to a branch of the Talbot family, the turn of the Kavanaghs came to seize and garrison it with 140 of their clan. They, in turn, after a fierce fight, were dispossessed by Sir George Stanley, and having been sent prisoners to Dublin, were afterwards executed there.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 23

13. Tradition of priest shot at Powerscourt hall door

    Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow

    A local tradition holds that during Tudor wars a priest was made to kneel before the house and was shot from the hall door. Investigation of ancient records instead reveals he was accidentally killed by a defensive volley while trying to mediate as insurgents besieged the castle.

    Read the passage

    In connection with this may be mentioned a current tradition that during the wars in Tudor times a priest was made to kneel down in front of the house, and was shot from the hall door.

    Investigation, however, of ancient records, shows that the real circumstances were as follows :

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 23

14. Battle of Delgany, 1022

    near Delgany · town · Wicklow · 1022

    A great battle was fought at Dun Deilinis (Delgany), a fortress erected by Seaghda of the Culanni, in 1022 between Sitric, Danish King of Dublin, and Ugain, King of Leinster, in which Sitric was defeated.

    Read the passage

    * A great battle was fought here in 1022, between Sitric, Danish King of Dublin, and Ugain, King of Leinster, in which the former was defeated.

    t Rath : an earthern circular rampart, with its surrounding ditch ; usually single, but sometimes there are two, three or more concentric lines enclosing a central space for the buildings and cattle, etc., of the defenders.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Delgany in Wicklow. The old records describe a rath here as an earthen circular rampart with a surrounding ditch, sometimes a single line, sometimes several concentric rings enclosing a central space for buildings and cattle.

15. Dargan personally funds Esplanade improvements

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1859

    In October 1859 deliberations for improvement of the Esplanade were relieved by the generous action of Dargan, who took the whole matter under his own charge and expense. Despite this, no public building in Bray commemorates him, and the terrace named after him was mistakenly renamed Duncairn instead of Dargan.

    Read the passage

    In October, 1859, deliberations for improvement of Esplanade are haply relieved by the generous and public-spirited action of Dargan, in taking the whole matter under his own hands and charges.

    It is a standing reproach to this day that not one public building or institution among us commemorates the princely munificence of this great contractor and maker of Bray. Even the Terrace built by, and named after him, has, by a thoughtless translation, been converted from Dargan into Duncairn.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, you're in a town shaped by Dargan, the great contractor. In October 1859 he personally took charge and funded improvements to the Esplanade, easing deliberations that had dragged on. Yet no public building or institution here commemorates him. Even the terrace he built and named after himself was thoughtlessly renamed from Dargan to Duncairn.

16. De Riddlesford's terrible experience in the old graveyard

    near Bray Head · promontory · Wicklow

    The old graveyard that once surrounded the church on Bray Head was the scene of De Riddlesford's terrible experience, though not a vestige of the graveyard remains above ground today.

    Read the passage

    Of the old graveyard — the scene of De Riddlesford’s terrible experience — that once surrounded this church, not a vestige now remains above ground. There are, however, two wells in the vicinity, of which the tradition runs that St. Patrick, having opened the first so near the sea that it was sometimes contaminated by saline spray, he then opened another to the west of the church. Which tradition, if time were only more elastic, would fit in very well with the teaching of geologists.

    For admission to Bray Head demesne, on which the church stands, apply to W. B. Stanley, Esq., 59 Dawson -street, Dublin, who is agent for the owner, C. W. Neligan, Esq.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 7

17. George IV entertained at Powerscourt Saloon in 1821

    Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow · 1821

    In the grand saloon of Powerscourt House, King George IV was entertained in August 1821 on the day of, and just before, his departure from Ireland at Dunleary, later renamed Kingstown.

    Read the passage

    Over the hall is the saloon, a noble room of the same length and breadth as the hall, but forty feet in height. In this magnificent apartment Royalty, in the person of George IV., was entertained in August, 1821, on the day, and just anterior to his departure from Ireland, at Dunleary, thereafter to be known as Kingstown.

    Since then Royalty has been no infrequent visitor ; the present Viscount, always a persona grata with His Majesty King Edward VII., entertained His Royal Highness and his Consort, as Prince and Princess of Wales (together with the then Duke and Duchess of York), on the occasion of their first official visit to Ireland, and again the present Prince and Princess of Wales in 1897. During the recent visit of Her Majesty the late Queen, H.R.H. Princess Henry of Battenberg and suite visited Powerscourt, as the

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 23

18. Fourth Earl of Meath wounded at Limerick after fighting for William

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1689–1690

    Edward, the fourth Earl of Meath, was attainted by King James' parliament in 1689, fought at Carrickfergus and the Boyne on William's side, and was wounded at Limerick in 1690.

    Read the passage

    Edward, the fourth Earl, was attainted as suspect by King James’ parliament in 1689. He fought at Carrickfergus and the Boyne on William’s side, and was wounded at Limerick in 1690.

    These facts may explain the tradition that James II., a fugitive after the Battle of the Boyne, slept one night at Puck’s Castle on the north slope of Shankhill (see map), and early next day, fearing an ambuscade in the woods of Killruddery, seized a boat on the Killiney strand, and coasting Bray Head, thus reached Wicklow by sea, to pass on finally to Waterford and France.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 19

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, it was here in 1690 that Edward, the fourth Earl of Meath, was wounded. He had been attainted as suspect by King James' parliament in 1689, then fought for William at Carrickfergus and at the Boyne. Limerick is where that service cost him his blood.

19. Jarvies petition over car traffic regulation in Bray

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1858

    As commissioners regulated car traffic, two jarvies, Michael Wall and James Murphy, petitioned that carmen be allowed to carry their badges only for production on demand, and to be punished for misdemeanours by a fine rather than losing their trade; the petition was granted.

    Read the passage

    Regulation of car traffic was, of course, an early worry for our first commissioners, hence we find two noble “Jarvies” (Michael Wall and James Murphy), champions of their class, to whom we afford such immortality as this little book is ever likely to secure, appearing to present a petition to the effect that they and their fellows may be permitted to carry their badges as a gentleman does his watch, only to be produced when some irate “fare” shall demand “ what o’clock it is ?” ; and, moreover, that as to err is human, and carmen are mortal, that they shall be punished for misdemeanours by an eric* after the true Celtic custom, rather than by inhibition from pursuing their craft. All of which was duly granted.

    These unhappy legislators are even called on to settle nice ethical points, in addition to their weightier labours. Intrusive bathing boxes, even though their owners be fair, will obstruct aristocratic line of sight, hence these complaints. “ Romance is dead,” doubtless the commissioners said, and moved them on.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    You're passing through Bray, in Wicklow. Back in 1858, when the commissioners here were regulating car traffic, two jarvies, Michael Wall and James Murphy, petitioned on behalf of their class of carmen. They asked that they be allowed to carry their badges as a gentleman carries his watch, producing it only when some irate fare demanded it. They also asked that when they erred, they be punished by a fine rather than by being barred from their trade. The commissioners granted all of it. The same body had to settle other matters too, such as complaints that bathing boxes were obstructing the line of sight of the aristocratic, and they moved them on.

20. Protestant Industrial School for Girls, Bray

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1902

    Located at the head of Main Street near the Town Hall, this was by 1902 the only Protestant Industrial School remaining in Leinster, Munster and Connaught, since those in Dublin and Cork had closed. It housed 91 girls who were trained in needlework, cookery and laundry work before being placed in situations, and ran with a financial deficit despite a government grant.

    Read the passage

    Stands in its own grounds at the head of Main Street, close to the Town Hall. It is now the only Protestant Industrial School in the provinces of Leinster, Munster and Connaught, since those of Dublin and Cork were closed.

    On the 3rd December, 1902, there were 91 names on the roll, and the appearance of these girls in public is a better index of how well they are cared for than anything it is possible to write here.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 33

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, up near the head of Main Street by the Town Hall, there was a Protestant Industrial School for Girls. By 1902 it was the only one left in Leinster, Munster and Connaught, the schools in Dublin and Cork having closed. On the 3rd of December that year, 91 girls were on the roll. The book says their appearance in public told you more about how well they were cared for than anything it could put into words.

21. The rath of Calary and the fairy curse

    Calary · parish · Wicklow

    Local tradition warns against meddling with raths, recounting the fate of a man who, after one day's delving into the rath of Calary, had half his beard and hair turned white in a single night by the fairy 'good people'.

    Read the passage

    Are to be found in many places, and permission to cross the owner’s lands is usually freely accorded. Only if you have a mind to meddle with them, remember the fate of the man who for one day’s delving into the rath of Calary had half his beard and hair turned white %in a single night by the “ good people.”

    37

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 8

22. Delgany Church built 1789 with La Touche memorial statue

    near Delgany · town · Wicklow · 1789

    Delgany Church, built by Peter La Touche in 1789 to a design by Whitmore Davis, contains a fine memorial statue in white marble to David La Touche, executed by sculptor Noah Hickey.

    Read the passage

    The southerly side is unfenced, and its paths quite open. The other side, constituting portion of the demesne of Bellevue, is, through the courtesy of the owner, Major La Touche, open to visitors on Mondays; on other days special permission must be obtained. Visitors generally walk up the path to the Octagon House, etc., and regain their car at the demesne entrance on the Delgany Road. The chief interest in the house itself centres in the magnificent conservatory said to have cost upwards of ^4,000. On the return road through Delgany, if time permits, the sightseer may inspect the fine memorial statue to David La Touche, Esq., executed in white marble by Noah Hickey, and standing within Delgany Church, which was itself built by Peter La Touche, Esq., in 1789, after a design by Whitmore Davis. We may here mention that the family of Digges — afterwards called. La Touche, from part of their possessions near Blois — who have done so much for this district of Delgany, represent a portion of that most valuable human

    98 Bray and Environs ,

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 27

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Delgany in County Wicklow, there is a church worth knowing. Delgany Church was built by Peter La Touche in 1789, to a design by Whitmore Davis. Inside it stands a memorial statue in white marble, carved by the sculptor Noah Hickey, commemorating David La Touche. The La Touche family have done much for this district of Delgany. They were originally called Digges, and took the name La Touche from part of their possessions near Blois. Their connection to the place runs deep. The nearby demesne of Bellevue belonged to Major La Touche, and its grounds were open to visitors on Mondays, or by special permission on other days. The conservatory there was said to have cost upwards of 4,000 pounds. But the church itself, built by Peter La Touche that year of 1789, is the thing here in the town, with that white marble figure of David La Touche standing inside.

23. Dolmen circle at Dalkey destroyed for Martello Tower

    Dalkey · townland · Dublin · 1797

    A cromlech circle enclosing a dolmen is said to have existed on Dalkey Common until about 1797, when a contractor blasted and quarried the stone blocks to obtain material for building a Martello Tower.

    Read the passage

    * Such a circle enclosing a dolmen is said to have existed on Dalkey common until about the year 1797, when a vandal contractor blasted and quarried the blocks to obtain material for building a Martello Tower, which latter, in this instance at least, justified Curran’s clever reply about puzzling posterity.

    30

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 6

24. Excavation of moat at Old Connaught House

    near Old Connaught · population centre · Dublin

    A moat in the grounds of Old Connaught House, investigated during the time of the late Lord Plunket, Archbishop of Dublin, yielded flint implements, half-baked pottery of rude design, and human and animal bones including charred remains and primitive-type skulls, fully reported by W. F. Wakeman.

    Read the passage

    So far as we know of the few in the district, one only has been investigated — that situated in the grounds of old Connaught House, during the time of the late Lord Plunket — Archbishop of Dublin. From a cutting through this mound a number of specimens were obtained of flint implements, half-baked pottery of rude design, and human and animal bones, some of them charred by fire, and including skulls of a primitive type. This find has been fully reported* upon by W. F. Wakeman, Esq. Of many minor objects, pillar stones, kistvaens, etc., space does not permit us to treat.

    Nor need the antiquarian consider this district as worked out. There is, for instance, Cork Abbey, the seat of Sir E. Verner, Bart, known originally as “ Corkagh,” from its marshy site, and possessing internal evidence of antiquity, concerning which there is much room for investigation, as very little is known of its history. In the grounds there is a holy well, supposed to have been dedicated to St. Winifred, and to possess medicinal properties ; while at various times have been unearthed bones, vestiges of old buildings, and a monk’s spoon.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 8

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Old Connaught, there was once a moat in the grounds of Old Connaught House that drew some attention. During the time of the late Lord Plunket, who was Archbishop of Dublin, a cutting was made through the mound. It turned up flint implements, half-baked pottery of rude design, and human and animal bones, some of them charred by fire, along with skulls of a primitive type. The whole find was fully reported by W. F. Wakeman. What exactly the moat was for, or how old, the record does not say beyond the character of the things they pulled from it.

25. Hodson son killed in action at Isandlwana, 1879

    Hollybrook · townland · Wicklow · 1879

    One of the four other children of Sir George Hodson of Hollybrooke was killed in action at Isandula (Isandlwana) in 1879, commemorated simply on his memorial.

    Read the passage

    “ Killed in action at Isandula, 1879.”

    As already stated, the present House was built by the late Sir George Hodson, from the designs of the celebrated William Morrison, also architect of Clontarf Castle, Killruddery, etc.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 18

    As the companion tells it

    Near here at Hollybrook, Sir George Hodson built a house designed by the architect William Morrison, who also designed Clontarf Castle and Killruddery. A memorial records that one of Sir George's children was killed in action at Isandlwana in 1879.

26. Last Stand of the Men of Cualan at Glencullen

    near Glencullen · street · Dublin

    Pushed back by the fierce O'Byrnes and O'Tooles, the mild men of Cualan made their last stand around the district of Glen Cullin, an upland area still dotted with raths, though these are erroneously attributed to the Danes.

    Read the passage

    As a natural result they were pushed back and back till their last stand appears to have been made about the district of Glen Cullin; and, on the irregularly triangular upland, bounded by the Scalp Road, the county boundary and the lower Glen Cullin (or Cookstown) river, a tract exists still copiously dotted with raths f, generally, but erroneously, assigned to

    * A great battle was fought here in 1022, between Sitric, Danish King of Dublin, and Ugain, King of Leinster, in which the former was defeated.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Glencullen, the mild men of Cualan made their last stand. Pushed back and back by the fierce O'Byrnes and O'Tooles, they held out on an upland tract still copiously dotted with raths, though these are generally but erroneously assigned to the Danes.

27. Neolithic Burial Mounds at Newgrange

    Newgrange · townland · Meath

    The text describes an ancient neolithic or palaeolithic people, 'the little folk,' whose burial mounds persist at Newgrange, Brugh of Boyne, predating the later Aryan-stock invaders of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    All these races are assigned to a common Ayrian stock, but it should be remembered that they were certainly preceded by a neolithic or even a palaeolithic people, “the little folk,” possibly of Lappish origin, whose burial mounds persist to this day in such tumuli as those at New Grange, Brugh of Boyne, etc.

    These earliest aboriginal inhabitants are, however, sometimes considered as identical with the De Dannans under Angus Og, who, though magicians themselves of no mean order, were said to have been tricked out of the occupancy of the surface of Erin and confined to subterranean dwellings by the superior wiles of the Milesians, thus becoming the Fir Sidhe or fairies of Ireland, known to this day as “ the little folk,” and sometimes as “ the gentry.”

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 2

28. Sea wall and marine parade built to protect Dargan's Esplanade

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1881–1885

    In 1881 the encroaching sea seriously threatened Dargan's Esplanade, prompting Parliament to grant powers for constructing a sea wall and marine parade. The nearly mile-long work cost £20,000 and the first section was opened by Lord Lieutenant Earl Carnarvon in 1885.

    Read the passage

    In 1881, the incessant internecine strife between the insatiable sea and its ancient enemy, the firm land, so seriously threatened Dargan’s Esplanade that it became necessary to seek for further powers from Parliament for the construction of a sea wall and marine parade. The powers having been acquired, this fine work, nearly a mile long, was constructed at a cost of £ 20,000 , the first section having been opened by the then Lord Lieutenant — Earl Carnarvon, in 1885.

    The commissioners have the power, under the Act, to levy a toll for maintenance, etc., but acting in a wise and business-like way, they have never enforced this right.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 4

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, you're near the sea wall and marine parade built to shield Dargan's Esplanade. In 1881 the sea was eating away at the esplanade so badly that Parliament had to grant powers to build a wall and parade. The work ran nearly a mile and cost £20,000. Earl Carnarvon, then Lord Lieutenant, opened the first section in 1885. The commissioners had the right to charge a toll for upkeep, but they never enforced it.

29. Battle of Delgany, 1022 - Sitric defeated by Leinstermen

    near Delgany · town · Wicklow · 1022

    At Delgany in 1022 a great battle was fought in which Sitric, the Danish King of Dublin, was defeated by the Leinstermen under King Ugair.

    Read the passage

    At Delgany, in 1022, a great battle was fought in which Sitric, the Danish King of Dublin, was defeated by the Leinstermen under Ring Ugair. It is also interesting as having been at one time the dwellingplace of St. Mogoroc, who flourished about the year 492. Not far from the homeward road between Delgany and Greystones stand the ruins of Kindlestown Castle.

    The Glen of Hermitage at Altidore, the Glen of Kiltymon and the Devil’s Glen are all places of interest on the great southern road that passes through New Town Mt. Kennedy, and will repay the long drives necessary to reach them.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 27

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Delgany, you are passing a place where a great battle was fought in 1022. Sitric, the Danish King of Dublin, was defeated here by the Leinstermen under King Ugair. Delgany was also once the dwelling place of St. Mogoroc, who flourished around the year 492. The ruins of Kindlesstown Castle stand not far from the road between Delgany and Greystones.

30. Dalkey Island fortified by Milesian chief Seadhgha

    Dalkey Island · townland · Dublin

    Dalkey Island was fortified by the Milesian chief Seadhgha by means of a dun, later succeeded by a Danish fort during Viking times, now represented by the Martello Tower and Battery at the island's south-east corner.

    Read the passage

    This Island of Dalkey (Delginis — thorn island) was fortified by the Milesian chief, Seadhgha, by means of a dun, which, during Viking times, was succeeded by a Danish fort, and is represented in our own days by the Martello Tower, and by the Battery at extreme south-east corner.

    It is a famous place for picnic parties, and can be easily reached from Coliemore on the mainland, or preferably, get John Bowden to sail you over from Bray Harbour in his well-found little ship on some propitious day. A rocking-stone, holy well, and cross sculptured on the “ living ” rock are additional objects of interest.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 9

31. Hollybrooke House built of Glencree granite

    near Glencree · valley · Wicklow · 1834

    The present Hollybrooke House was built by Sir George Hodson from designs by architect William Morrison, also architect of Clontarf Castle and Killruddery. It is constructed of granite ashlar quarried in Glencree.

    Read the passage

    It is of the purest Tudor style, and constructed of granite ashlar, the stone having been quarried in Glencree. It is so clean and perfect a gem of architectural art, and so exquisitely set among its enamelled meads and bosky woods, that one is almost compelled to forgive the disobedience to that unwritten dictum which says that when the conception and execution of a building has risen to the level of hewn stone and hard woods, the question of shelter is as negligible to its owner as considerations of accessibility are likely to be. Hence the formula—

    “On this bold brow a lordly tower.”

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 18

32. Quinn's Hotel, the fashionable rendezvous

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1800–1854

    For half a century Bray remained little more than a fishing village and posting town, distinguished only by Quinn's Hotel (now the Royal), a favourite meeting place for pleasure parties and newlyweds. Its grounds once stretched down to the sea, with a walk that survives in part as Duncairn Terrace Road.

    Read the passage

    From those days, onward for half a century, Bray remained practically no more than a rude fishing village and posting town, ornamented, however, by one highly civilised oasis in the shape of Quinn’s Hotel, the favourite rendezvous of pleasure parties and of the newly-wed.

    At that time the grounds of this hotel (now the Royal) stretched right down to the sea, and the broad walk, running from the rear straight to the strand persist in part at the present day, in the interrupted Duncairn Terrace Road.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, think back to the half-century after 1800, when this was little more than a fishing village and posting town. Its one claim to refinement was Quinn's Hotel, later the Royal, a favourite rendezvous for pleasure parties and newlyweds. The hotel grounds ran all the way down to the sea, and a broad walk from the rear straight to the strand survives in part as Duncairn Terrace Road.

33. The Old Church Below Bray Head

    near Bray Head · promontory · Wicklow

    An ancient oral tradition holds that the ruined old church standing at the foot of the wooded northern face of Bray Head was built by St. Patrick to commemorate his landing there.

    Read the passage

    There is an ancient oral tradition that the old church, the remains of which stand at the foot of the wooded portion of the northern face of Bray Head, was built by St. Patrick to commemorate his landing. Miss Cusack, in her very circumstantial account of the Saint’s first missionary voyage, makes no mention of this. Her narrative is not, however, above a grave suspicion of inaccuracy in some respects, as, having for one thing grievously libelled our Patron Saint by representing him as a kind of ancient casual tramp, proceeding up the coast, his mouth filled indifferently with blessing or cursing for men and things, according as they proved serviceable or the reverse.

    This is not the Patrick of the “Confession” and the “ Epistle to Coroticus ” ; nor yet the man who lit his Easter fire on the hill of Slane over against Tara, and the court of King Laoghaire.*

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 2

34. Ancient Celtic church ruins on Dalkey Island

    Dalkey Island · townland · Dublin

    Dalkey Island features the ruins of an ancient church, described as one of the most perfect examples of the oldest style of Celtic church architecture found in Ireland, alongside a Martello Tower and Battery.

    Read the passage

    BOTH for his convenience and pleasure the stranger had better arrange to visit Bray via the Westland Row branch of the Dublin, Wicklow and Wexford Railway Company. He will then get, in a moment, as the train rushes out of Dalkey Tunnel, his first glimpse of our town, sparkling, if the day be fine, far off across the blue waters and fair shores of the beautiful Irish Bay of Killiney, as it sweeps out a long curve from Sorrento Point, to end abruptly in the bold headland which keeps its watch o’er Bray, and from which the name of the Town is doubtless derived. (Bri, or Bree, — a hill or rising ground, cognate with Scotch Brae.)* As the train runs rapidly round the rocky cutting under Killiney Hill, a backward glance should be given to Dalkey Island, a prominent feature to the north-east, with its Martello Tower, Battery, and ruins of an ancient church, one of the most perfect examples of the oldest style of Celtic church architecture to be found in Ireland.

    This Island of Dalkey (Delginis — thorn island) was fortified by the Milesian chief, Seadhgha, by means of a dun, which, during Viking times, was succeeded by a Danish fort, and is represented in our own days by the Martello Tower, and by the Battery at extreme south-east corner.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 9

35. Erratic granite boulders dispute in Little Bray

    Little Bray · townland · Wicklow · 1858–1859

    A commissioner or the inspector of nuisances discovered erratic granite boulders in Little Bray on land owned by a man named Edge, who was ordered to move them but repeatedly delayed. The commissioners threatened to collect the stones themselves and build a cashel with them.

    Read the passage

    Such daring disobedience whets the commissioners’ ire to fulminating point, and they issue an ultimatum that if by given day and date the stones are not duly stored, they themselves will collect same, and construct therewith a cashel round their own kitchenmidden ; whereby the student of Township history will perceive that a dead rock is more profitable than a defunct donkey.

    * Eric : a fine assessed by the Brehons for offences from homicide downwards.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Little Bray, around 1858 to 1859, a man named Edge owned land where erratic granite boulders lay. He was ordered to move them but kept delaying. The commissioners issued an ultimatum: if the stones were not moved by a set date, they would collect them and build a cashel around their kitchen midden.

36. Fassaroe Castle destroyed by Cromwell

    Fassaroe · townland · Wicklow · 1649–1653

    Fassaroe Castle makes its last historical appearance as one of the many castles reduced by Cromwell during his campaign in Ireland.

    Read the passage

    For fuller particulars and much interesting information about the Fercullen district, see a paper by T. P. Le Fanu, Esq., B.A., on “The Royal Forest of Glencree,” published in the proceedings of The Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland, (part 3, vol III., 5th series — 3rd quarter, Sept., 1893). This castle makes its last historical appearance as one of the many reduced by Cromwell. Permission to inspect may be obtained from R. M. Barrington, Esq., LL.D., Fassaroe House.

    RATHS

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 8

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here stood Fassaroe Castle. Its last historical appearance is as one of the many castles reduced by Cromwell, during his campaign in Ireland between 1649 and 1653. Beyond that, the record goes quiet.

37. La Touche family Huguenot origins linked to Delgany improvements

    near Delgany · town · Wicklow

    The La Touche family (originally Digges), who did much for the Delgany district, descended from Huguenots banished from France following the revocation of the Edict of Nantes.

    Read the passage

    The southerly side is unfenced, and its paths quite open. The other side, constituting portion of the demesne of Bellevue, is, through the courtesy of the owner, Major La Touche, open to visitors on Mondays; on other days special permission must be obtained. Visitors generally walk up the path to the Octagon House, etc., and regain their car at the demesne entrance on the Delgany Road. The chief interest in the house itself centres in the magnificent conservatory said to have cost upwards of ^4,000. On the return road through Delgany, if time permits, the sightseer may inspect the fine memorial statue to David La Touche, Esq., executed in white marble by Noah Hickey, and standing within Delgany Church, which was itself built by Peter La Touche, Esq., in 1789, after a design by Whitmore Davis. We may here mention that the family of Digges — afterwards called. La Touche, from part of their possessions near Blois — who have done so much for this district of Delgany, represent a portion of that most valuable human

    98 Bray and Environs ,

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 27

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Delgany in Wicklow, the La Touche family marks nearly everything here. They were originally called Digges, then took the name La Touche from part of their possessions near Blois, and they did much for this district. Peter La Touche built Delgany Church in 1789 after a design by Whitmore Davis, and inside stands a white marble memorial statue to David La Touche, carved by Noah Hickey. Up at the Bellevue demesne, the Octagon House has a conservatory said to have cost upwards of 4,000. The demesne is open to visitors on Mondays through the courtesy of the owner, Major La Touche. The family represent a portion of that most valuable human element that came to Ireland as Huguenots, banished from France after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes.

38. Norman grant of Bray lordship to de Riddlesford

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1173

    After the Norman invasion, the Lordship of Bray and the lands of the O'Tooles fell to Walter de Riddlesford in 1173, to be held of the Crown for the service of three knights at Dublin. King John later augmented this grant with the seigniory of Castledermot and fair rights.

    Read the passage

    The spoils, as usual, going to the victors, Richard Le Clare’s doughty talliefers were severally rewarded by extensive grants of the conquered territories. Thus, the Lordship of Bray and the lands of the O’Tooles, just so far as he could have and hold them, fell to the share of Walter de Riddlesford in 1173, to be held by him of the Crown for the consideration of three knights’ service to be performed at Dublin.

    John augmented this grant by assigning the seigniory of Castledermot (the ancient Disart Diarmada) and the right to hold an annual fair, together with various other privileges.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 19

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, you are in a lordship that dates to 1173. After the Norman invasion, Walter de Riddlesford was granted the Lordship of Bray and the lands of the O'Tooles, as far as he could hold them, to be held of the Crown for the service of three knights at Dublin. King John later added to this grant the seigniory of Castledermot and the right to hold an annual fair, along with various other privileges.

39. Old Castle of Bray - destroyed 1316, later Constabulary barrack

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1316–1837

    The old Castle of Bray, likely built or reconstructed in Tudor times as a block-house to guard against incursions from the mountain septs, may represent the castle taken and destroyed by the O'Tooles and O'Byrnes in 1316. In 1837 it was fitted up as a Constabulary Barrack before reverting to private occupancy.

    Read the passage

    It may possibly represent the old Castle which was taken and destroyed by the O’Toole’s and O’Byrnes in 1316

    In 1837 it was fitted up as a Constabulary Barrack, but soon lapsed to its present condition of private occupancy.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 10

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, there was once a castle here that the O'Tooles and O'Byrnes took and destroyed in 1316. What was left of it was fitted up as a Constabulary Barrack in 1837, but soon lapsed back to private occupancy.

40. Railway and Dargan transform Bray

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1854–1857

    With the arrival of the Dublin, Wicklow and Wexford railway in 1854, and the energy of the celebrated Dargan, greater Bray rapidly grew, so that comparing the township map of 1857 to the present day the differences are small save for missing houses along the Meath Road and no seawall or harbour at that time.

    Read the passage

    With the advent of the Dublin, Wicklow and Wexford railway in 1854, coupled with the perfervid energy and ability of the celebrated Dargan, greater Bray rapidly arose, so that, comparing the township map of 1857 with that of the present day, save for an almost complete absence of houses along the Meath Road district, and no seawall nor harbour, the differences are small.

    Development had so far advanced in 1857, that the chief influential inhabitants, utilising “The Towns Improvement (Ireland) Act ” of 1854, obtained sanction on the 9th October, 1857, to constitute themselves into an incorporate governing body for the management of the township affairs.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, you are travelling a town that was reshaped in the 1850s. The Dublin, Wicklow and Wexford railway arrived in 1854, and with the energy and ability of the celebrated Dargan, greater Bray rapidly arose. By 1857, the township map already looked much as it does today, save for houses missing along the Meath Road and no seawall or harbour. Development had advanced so far that on the 9th of October 1857, the chief influential inhabitants used the Towns Improvement Act of 1854 to constitute themselves as an incorporated governing body for the township's affairs.

41. Legend of a seismic rifting shaking the Scalp and dolmens

    near The Scalp · feature · Dublin

    Artist Beranger proposed that a seismic rift extending five and a half miles from Tybroden Mountain near Rathfarnham to the Scalp simultaneously shook the Mount Venus and Kilternan Dolmens from their supports, as an alternative to the water-erosion theory of the chasm's formation.

    Read the passage

    There are also the great chasms of the Downs, Dargle and Scalp to be theorized over. In which investigation, as to the Scalp, the authoritative but unconvincing water worn explanation of Hull, the geologist, utilising an ancient and more powerful Dodder as eroding agent, may be balanced against artist Beranger’s idea of a seismic rifting, which he traces for an area of five and a-half miles by half-amile, from the fissure at the foot of the Tybroden Mountain, near Rathfarnham, to the Scalp, and which he supposes simultaneously shook the Mount Venus and Kilternan Dolmens from their supporters.

    Also for another vexed question, consider whether our Cambrian rocks do contain organic forms after Dr. Oldham, or whether these things be but inorganic simulacra with Professors Roemer and Sollas.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 35

42. O'Toole Castle Overlooking Fassaroe

    Fassaroe · townland · Wicklow

    The northernmost of the O'Toole family's castles was placed on the brow at Fassaroe, likely positioned to overawe the descendants of the mild men of Cualan and prevent them regaining their ancient lands.

    Read the passage

    the Danes. It is significant that the furthest north of the O’Toole’s castles that we are acquainted with is placed on *Fassaroe brow, possibly to overawe the descendants of the mild men of Cualan from any attempt to regain their ancient possessions.

    In conclusion, if it be enquired by some modern critic, after the fashion of Herr Max Nordau, boisterous and sub-acrid, how much degeneration we have undergone from such virile and versatile ancestors, capable of all things save collaboration for a common purpose, it is sufficient to reply that the men who but yesterday forced the passage of the Tugela and went raging over Pieter’s Hill are in no way inferior to their mighty forbears. Only in these days you must not look for any very great percentage of the finest specimens in the Army. They are driving our vans, manning our railways, and above all, conserving our peace in that fine body of stalwart men the Royal Irish Constabulary.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, on Fassaroe brow, stood the northernmost castle of the O'Toole family. The O'Tooles placed it here, possibly to overawe the descendants of what the old book calls "the mild men of Cualan" and keep them from any attempt to regain their ancient possessions. The O'Tooles were pushing into territory taken from earlier inhabitants, and this castle marked the edge of that advance. What remains today, if anything, is not recorded.

43. Powerscourt House built on site of medieval castle

    Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow · 1608–1618

    The present house at Powerscourt stands on the site of an older castle, evidenced by central room walls eight to ten feet thick that survive from the ancient structure. The Down Survey records the granted lands as mostly mountainous and stony, with a ruinous castle.

    Read the passage

    In the Down Survey it is stated that Sir Richard Wingfield was granted the lands of Powerscourt “ five miles in length by four miles in breadth, in the territory of Fercullin, in the county of Wicklow, by James I., said land being mostly mountainous and stony, and with a ruinous castle.”

    From ecclesiastical records it appears that the old name for the parish of Powerscourt was Stagonil, and it apparently took its present name from the De la Poer family, to whom it was conveyed through the marriage portion of a daughter of Milo de Cogan, an adherent of Strongbow. The original Castle appears to have been built by the De la Poers.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 23

44. Robin Adair founds Hollybrooke

    Hollybrook · townland · Wicklow

    Through the Bellgrove branch of the Adair family arose Robin Adair, the founder of Hollybrooke, whose name is preserved in the well-known song set to the Irish air 'Aileen Aroon'. His giant goblets and ancient harp are still preserved at the house.

    Read the passage

    His giant goblets and ancient harp are still preserved at Hollybrooke.

    The family of Hodson may, for our present purpose, begin with the Right Rev. W. J. Hodson, Bishop of Elphin, of English descent, who died in 1686. From him, through William Hodson of Tuitstown, descended Sir Robert Hodson, created first Baronet in 1787.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 17

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Hollybrooke, founded by Robin Adair of the Bellgrove branch of the Adair family. His name lives on in the well-known song set to the Irish air 'Aileen Aroon'. His giant goblets and ancient harp are still preserved at the house.

45. The Kilternan dolmen, one of Ireland's finest

    Kiltiernan · townland · Dublin

    The Kilternan dolmen is described as one of the finest examples in Ireland, with its western end resting on three supporters and eastern end crushed down; Wakeman measured it at 23 feet 6 inches long, 13.5 feet broad, and 6 feet 6 inches thick, likely an ice-deposited granite erratic.

    Read the passage

    The Kilternan specimen figured in illustration is one of the finest examples to be found in Ireland.

    The western and more massive end is still resting on three supporters, all somewhat out of the vertical.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 6

46. Turkish Baths built by Dargan for Dr. Barter

    Bray · town · Wicklow

    A foreign-looking structure that puzzles strangers unfamiliar with the bizarre architecture of Turkish Baths was originally built by Dargan for Dr. Barter, but the project proved too ambitious for Bray and it lapsed into Assembly Rooms for hire, used by the Plymouth Brethren and the Friends.

    Read the passage

    Diagonally opposite to this arises a foreign-looking structure, a frequent puzzle to strangers unfamiliar with the bizarre architecture of “ Turkish Baths,” for which purpose it was originally built by Dargan for Dr. Barter.

    The project proved too ambitious for Bray, and after some period of unsuccessful working, this particular “speckled elephant” lapsed into a series of Assembly Rooms for hire. The east and west wings have been rented as meeting places for the Plymouth Brethren and the Friends, while the large centre room can be hired for public entertainments.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 12

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, there is a foreign-looking structure that puzzles strangers unfamiliar with the bizarre architecture of Turkish Baths. It was originally built by Dargan for Dr. Barter, but the project proved too ambitious for the town and lapsed into Assembly Rooms for hire. The east and west wings have been rented as meeting places for the Plymouth Brethren and the Friends, while the large centre room can be hired for public entertainments.

47. Bray Town Hall and Market House built by Earl and Countess of Meath

    Bray · town · Wicklow

    The Town Hall and Market House at Bray was built by the Earl and Countess of Meath in old English timbered style with tiled roofs, from designs by T. M. Deane, and its Council Chamber is ornately decorated with carved wood, gesso work, and stained glass.

    Read the passage

    The main entrance to Killruddery Demesne is approached by the road branching to the left hand from the head of the main street, as you face the Town Hall and Market House, which structure, we may here mention, was built by the present Earl and Countess of Meath, in the old English timbered style, with tiled roofs, from designs by T. M. Deane. The interior of the large room, which stretches right across the northern fa9ade, and forms the Council Chamber for the municipal authority, is very ornately decorated in carved wood, gesso work, and stained glass. It is occasionally pressed into service for the accommodation of various public functions.

    The usual clock tower is present, and over a not less useful fountain before the northern front, presides a wyvern, collared and chained, bearing his lordship’s shield (gules on a bend or three martlets sable).

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 19

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, the Town Hall and Market House stands at the head of the main street. The Earl and Countess of Meath built it in the old English timbered style, with tiled roofs, from designs by T. M. Deane. The large room across the northern front serves as the Council Chamber for the municipal authority, and it is very ornately decorated in carved wood, gesso work, and stained glass. It is occasionally used for public functions. A clock tower stands as you would expect, and over a fountain before the northern front presides a wyvern, collared and chained, bearing his lordship's shield.

48. Christ Church built 1861 on the rock of Bray, bells dedicated 1881

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1861–1881

    Christ Church, built in 1861 on the rock of Bray, dominates the whole town with its granite Gothic style and steeple containing a fine peal of bells provided by public subscription, headed by W. E. Gladstone. The bells were dedicated on February 10th, 1881.

    Read the passage

    From this entrance a few steps bring one to the Town Hall and bifurcation of Main Street into two roads. One, on the right hand, as you face the Town Hall, leads to Kilmacanogue, Glen of Downs, etc., via Hollybrooke ; while the other left-hand branch conducts the traveller past the Meath Industrial School to Old Court Castle, the Vevay, Killruddery, Windgate, Greystones, etc. These roads are looped together near their origin by a Short curved cross road, on the south side of which stands Christ Church, built in 1861, on the rock of Bray, and dominating the whole town. It is a granite building of the usual simpler Gothic type, having a north porch and steeple which contains a fine peal of bells, provided by public subscription, the list having been headed by the late W. E. Gladstone. They were dedicated on February ioth, 1881, and since then have been available for various celebrations, and on them occasionally innumerable “ bob-majors ” and "minors ” are rendered by experienced ringers.

    The interior of the building is adorned by some fine stained glass to the memory of ioth Earl of Meath (east window), nth Earl of Meath (west window), Sir Lovelace Stamer, Bart., and Lady Stamer, Miss Featherstonhaugh, Rev. Ormsby Handcock, and Mary C. L. Scott. And also by elaborate glass mosaic fillings in the reredos panels. The Transfiguration after Raphael in the centre is to the memory of Edward Lysaght Griffin, Esq. Others commemorate Mr. Lyne and Mrs. West.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, Christ Church rises above the town, built in 1861 on the rock of Bray. It is a granite Gothic building with a steeple holding a fine peal of bells, paid for by public subscription with W. E. Gladstone heading the list. The bells were dedicated on 10 February 1881, and since then experienced ringers have performed "bob-majors" and "minors" on them. Inside, stained glass windows memorialise the 10th and 11th Earls of Meath, Sir Lovelace Stamer and Lady Stamer, Miss Featherstonhaugh, Rev. Ormsby Handcock, and Mary C. L. Scott, while glass mosaic panels in the reredos include a Transfiguration after Raphael commemorating Edward Lysaght Griffin. Others remember Mr. Lyne and Mrs. West.

49. Prostrate dolmen on McNulty's farm near Glaskenny

    Glaskenny · townland · Wicklow

    Near Glaskenny House, on McNulty's farm close to the road, stands a fine example of a semi-prostrate dolmen with a table stone approximately 10 feet square by 2 feet 4 inches thick, apparently notched to fit its supporting stones.

    Read the passage

    This is by far the finest of all the long drives about Bray, and may be made to combine in one long summer day much of the finest river, lake and mountain scenery of the district. Thus, making an early start, proceed by the Herbert Road to Lord Powerscourt’s side of the Dargle, traversing this on foot, pick up car at Enniskerry end, and thence through Powerscourt demesne to the Waterfall. Returning to the Deerpark gate, take the Onagh Road as far as the schoolhouse, then turn into the Glasskenny-Lackan Road that sweeps round Knockree to join the main road to head of Glencree. Near Glaskenny House, and quite close to the road on McNulty’s farm, a fine example of the semi-prostrate Dolmen may be examined, having a table stone, approximately 10 feet square by 2 feet 4 inches thick, and looking as if it had been worked on both surfaces, while it is clearly notched on the under one, apparently to take the chisel-like end of one of the three chief vertical supporters. Proceeding up the Glencree Road to its junction with the great Military Road,* just beside the old barrack, now a reformatory, the latter is taken to the left, and from it, a short distance beyond the Reformatory, a magnificent view is obtained down the whole length of the Glen, out across the two Gilt Spears to Bray Head and the Sea. The name, Glencree, is said to mean the Glen of the Trees (Craebh : a large branchy tree), and, as already mentioned [page 72], Mr. T. P. Le Fanu has

    * Engineered by Major Alexander Taylor, this road was constructed by Highland Regiments, assisted by the peasantry, in 1802 and following years for the strategic purpose of bringing the mountain fastnesses of Co. WickLw within easy rea:hof Dublin.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 28

50. St Patrick's ruined church on Bray Head

    near Bray Head · promontory · Wicklow

    Only ruinous gables and portions of side walls persist of this early church on Bray Head, with detailed diminutive dimensions and ancient masonry construction described, including narrow arched lights and a socketed window. The church has also been known as St. Brendan's, St. Michael's, and Raharacligge.

    Read the passage

    The orientation is peculiar, the present mag. bearings being for the long axis, N.W. and S.E. It seems a great pity that, like all the old churches in the district, nothing whatever is being done to preserve this ancient landmark of our history from the corroding hand of time, the destructive grip of ivy, and the obscuring boughs of brambles. Beside the name already given, the following have been applied at various times to this church : — St. Brendan’s, St. Michael’s, and Raharacligge.

    Of the old graveyard — the scene of De Riddlesford’s terrible experience — that once surrounded this church, not a vestige now remains above ground. There are, however, two wells in the vicinity, of which the tradition runs that St. Patrick, having opened the first so near the sea that it was sometimes contaminated by saline spray, he then opened another to the west of the church. Which tradition, if time were only more elastic, would fit in very well with the teaching of geologists.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 7

51. St Patrick's two wells at Bray Head

    near Bray Head · promontory · Wicklow

    Tradition holds that St. Patrick opened a well near the sea at Bray Head that became contaminated by salt spray, then opened a second well to the west of the church, both of which persist in the vicinity.

    Read the passage

    Of the old graveyard — the scene of De Riddlesford’s terrible experience — that once surrounded this church, not a vestige now remains above ground. There are, however, two wells in the vicinity, of which the tradition runs that St. Patrick, having opened the first so near the sea that it was sometimes contaminated by saline spray, he then opened another to the west of the church. Which tradition, if time were only more elastic, would fit in very well with the teaching of geologists.

    For admission to Bray Head demesne, on which the church stands, apply to W. B. Stanley, Esq., 59 Dawson -street, Dublin, who is agent for the owner, C. W. Neligan, Esq.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 7

52. St. Paul's Chapel of Ease - oldest church in Bray, dating from 1609

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1609–1818

    St. Paul's, the Protestant Chapel of Ease on Main Street, is the oldest existing church in the town, dating its origin from 1609. It was enlarged in 1818 with aid from the Board of First Fruits, and contains the grave of the late Countess of Meath marked by a Celtic cross.

    Read the passage

    Immediately opposite, on the right hand side of Main Street, stands the Protestant Chapel of Ease, St. Paul’s, the oldest existing church in the Town, dating its origin from 1609. It was enlarged in 1818 by aid of a grant from the late Board of First Fruits — a process which, in view of its increasing congregation and certain structural defects, will soon have to be repeated. Some of our rich residents or visitors might make a note of this outlet for their generous munificence.

    The grave of the late Countess of Meath is marked by a beautiful stone Celtic cross. The stained glass chancel window commemorates the late Phineas Riall, Esq., of Old Conna Hill.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 11

53. Vartry Waterworks scheme approved and constructed

    Roundwood · town · Wicklow · 1861–1868

    Following an enquiry by Sir John Hawkshaw, a Bill was passed in 1861 for the Dublin Corporation to build a new water supply utilising the Vartry River catchment, with Roundwood Reservoir as the main store. The Vartry was deflected into the reservoir on June 10, 1863, though works were not completed until 1868.

    Read the passage

    The River Vartry was deflected into Roundwood Reservoir on June 10th, 1863, but the works, mains, etc., were not completed until 1868. The great tunnel that passes through Callow Hill, taking three years and eight months to complete, and being nearly three miles long.

    The head of water over ordnance level datum at Poolbeg Lighthouse, Dublin, amounts to 692-45 feet, this great pressure being adjusted by three relieving stations between Roundwood and Stillorgan — Kilmurray (473), Kilcroney (414), and Rathmichael (341). The Roundwood Reservoir has a storage capacity of

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 4

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Roundwood now. This town sits at the heart of the Vartry Waterworks scheme, approved by Act in 1861 for Dublin Corporation. The River Vartry was deflected into Roundwood Reservoir on June 10, 1863, though the full works were not finished until 1868. A great tunnel through Callow Hill, nearly three miles long, took three years and eight months to complete. The water drops 692 feet to Dublin, its pressure adjusted by three relieving stations between here and Stillorgan.

54. Fire destroys Powerscourt house records

    Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow · 1740

    A disastrous accidental fire at Powerscourt House destroyed most of the estate's records, leaving a historical gap from 1740 that had to be filled from collateral sources such as the British Museum and Dublin Castle records.

    Read the passage

    Returning to the more immediate history of the house, we find that the destruction essayed in vain by the insurgents was partially accomplished by a disastrous accidental fire, involving the loss of most of the records of the house, thus leaving a gap from the year 1740 to the present Viscount’s time, only to be approximately filled up from collateral sources of information in the British Museum, the records in Dublin Castle and elsewhere.

    The first Viscount, Sir Richard, having no issue, the peerage became extinct, and was revived the second time in the person of Ffolliot Wingfield, by privy seal in 1664, and by patent in 1665 by King Charles II. He also died without issue, and the title again became extinct.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 23

55. Golden eagle once seen circling Bray Head

    near Bray Head · promontory · Wicklow · 1830–1850

    Sixty or seventy years before writing, a bird-lover in the district might have observed the golden eagle in powerful circling flight about the steep places of Bray Head, and heard its fierce screams, along with a raven flying from Prince William's Seat to Ravenswell.

    Read the passage

    SIXTY or seventy years ago, the bird-lover, traversing this district, might have been gratified by noting the sable-plumed hoarsevoiced bird of destiny winging its way from Prince William’s Seat to Ravenswell ; and then, also, he might have observed, about the steep places of Bray Head, the powerful circling flight of the golden eagle, and heard its fierce screams.

    Now, however, these larger representatives of the great class aves have almost altogether disappeared from their ancient haunts, or are merely represented by such fixed domesticated varieties as the Aquilce Hanmori et Internationali which adorn the Quinsboro’ Road.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 36

56. Old barrack at Glencree now a reformatory

    near Glencree · valley · Wicklow

    At the junction of the Glencree Road with the great Military Road stands an old barrack, now repurposed as a reformatory, near which a magnificent view down the glen to Bray Head and the sea can be seen.

    Read the passage

    This is by far the finest of all the long drives about Bray, and may be made to combine in one long summer day much of the finest river, lake and mountain scenery of the district. Thus, making an early start, proceed by the Herbert Road to Lord Powerscourt’s side of the Dargle, traversing this on foot, pick up car at Enniskerry end, and thence through Powerscourt demesne to the Waterfall. Returning to the Deerpark gate, take the Onagh Road as far as the schoolhouse, then turn into the Glasskenny-Lackan Road that sweeps round Knockree to join the main road to head of Glencree. Near Glaskenny House, and quite close to the road on McNulty’s farm, a fine example of the semi-prostrate Dolmen may be examined, having a table stone, approximately 10 feet square by 2 feet 4 inches thick, and looking as if it had been worked on both surfaces, while it is clearly notched on the under one, apparently to take the chisel-like end of one of the three chief vertical supporters. Proceeding up the Glencree Road to its junction with the great Military Road,* just beside the old barrack, now a reformatory, the latter is taken to the left, and from it, a short distance beyond the Reformatory, a magnificent view is obtained down the whole length of the Glen, out across the two Gilt Spears to Bray Head and the Sea. The name, Glencree, is said to mean the Glen of the Trees (Craebh : a large branchy tree), and, as already mentioned [page 72], Mr. T. P. Le Fanu has

    * Engineered by Major Alexander Taylor, this road was constructed by Highland Regiments, assisted by the peasantry, in 1802 and following years for the strategic purpose of bringing the mountain fastnesses of Co. WickLw within easy rea:hof Dublin.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 28

57. Royal visitors received in Bray en route to Powerscourt, 1897

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1897

    In 1897 the Prince and Princess of Wales, along with the Duke and Duchess of York, were received in Bray with an address of welcome from the municipal authority before proceeding through the decorated streets to Powerscourt.

    Read the passage

    fatigue of the journey was thought too great for the Queen herself. On this occasion the Royal party, after receiving an address of welcome from the municipal authority, proceeded to Powerscourt, through the gaily-decorated streets of Bray, receiving en route a perfervid Irish greeting and cead mille failthe.

    Returning from a necessary digression to the saloon, the lollowing items of interest may be mentioned :

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 24

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, this is the town where, in 1897, the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of York stopped to receive an address of welcome from the municipal authority. The streets were gaily decorated, and the royal party got what the record calls a perfervid Irish greeting before they continued on to Powerscourt.

58. Bray Township Act of 1886 expands local powers

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1886

    The Bray Township Act of 1886 transferred power over roads, bridges and township works from the Grand Jury to the reconstituted commissioners, who also acquired statutory possession of the Esplanade and secured a contract with Dublin Corporation for Vartry water supply.

    Read the passage

    Still eager for more work, in 1886 the “ Bray Township Act ” was successfully promoted, and under its clauses the power, formerly vested in the Grand Jury, over roads, bridges and township works, etc., passed to the then commissioners, as reconstituted under the Act.

    They also acquired by statutory authority possession of the Esplanade, which, as already mentioned, was previously held on lease by five members of the commissioners from the Earl of Meath. At the same time power was also secured to contract with the Dublin Corporation for the supply of Vartry water.

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Bray, this is the town reshaped by the Bray Township Act of 1886. That act took power over roads, bridges and township works away from the Grand Jury and gave it to the commissioners, who were reconstituted under the act. The commissioners also gained statutory possession of the Esplanade, which had been held on lease by five of their members from the Earl of Meath. And they secured the power to contract with Dublin Corporation for a supply of Vartry water.

59. Powerscourt gateway designed by architect Cassels

    Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow

    The massive granite gateway at the main entrance to Powerscourt Demesne reflects the architectural style of the house, designed by Mr. Cassels, who was also architect of Russborough House and the National Bank.

    Read the passage

    The massive and severely simple style of the great gateway in hewn granite affords an index of the architectural lines of the house itself, which are from the designs of Mr. Cassels, who was also architect of Russborough House and of the National Bank.

    The approach is now continued by a long avenue coasting the edge of a valley, and roughly parallel to the general course of its river, which latter, by-the way, being here above its Glen of Oaks, ought to be called, as it was, in 1830, the Glenislorane River (the river of the Fawn’s Glen Spring).

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 22

60. Bray incorporated as a township in 1857

    Bray · town · Wicklow · 1857

    Under the Towns Improvement (Ireland) Act of 1854, Bray's chief inhabitants obtained sanction on 9th October 1857 to form an incorporate governing body. At the first meeting on 9th November 1857 in the Court House, named commissioners attended and the Earl of Meath was elected chairman.

    Read the passage

    Development had so far advanced in 1857, that the chief influential inhabitants, utilising “The Towns Improvement (Ireland) Act ” of 1854, obtained sanction on the 9th October, 1857, to constitute themselves into an incorporate governing body for the management of the township affairs.

    At the first meeting in the Court House on 9th November, 1857, there were present : —

    Internet Archive brayenvirons00unse, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bray, this was the town that in 1857 gained its own governing body under the Towns Improvement (Ireland) Act of 1854. The chief inhabitants obtained sanction on 9th October that year to manage township affairs. At the first meeting in the Court House on 9th November 1857, the Earl of Meath was elected chairman.