Collections relating to the dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin (vol. 1)

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. Anniversary Requiem Office for Dr. Doyle in Carlow Cathedral, 1835

   Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1835

   The Anniversary Requiem Office for the repose of the soul of Dr. Doyle took place in the Cathedral, Carlow, in July 1835. Monsignor William Meagher, late P.P. of Rathmines, preached the panegyric of the deceased Prelate on the invitation of Bishop Edward Nolan.

   Read the passage

   The Anniversary Bequiem Office for the repose of the soul of Dr. Doyle took place in the Cathedral, Carlow, in July, 1835. On the invitation of the Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, the Bight Bev. Edward Nolan, Monsignor William Meagher, late P.P. of Bathmines, preached the panegyric of the deceased Prelate. The preacher, himself, gracefully and apologetically explains why he had consented to the task : — “ One only justification,” he says, “ can I allege, nor would I ever have dared to employ my poor efforts in his praise, but for an influence too difficult to resist. The influence of ancient and cherished friendship, — which rendered it a duty to meet the wishes of him

   116

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 112

2. Archbishop Fleming urges Dempsy to support Duke of Lorrain's Protectorate

   Dublin · city · Dublin · 1651

   In 1651 the Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. Fleming, at the instance of Lord Clanricarde, wrote to Dr. Dempsy, then the only Bishop in the Province, urging him to promote the proposed Protectorate of the Duke of Lorrain.

   Read the passage

   The Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. Fleming, at the instance of Lord Clanricarde, the then Viceroy, took an active part in promoting the proposed Protectorate of the Duke of Lorrain, in 1651, and wrote to Dr. Dempsy, then the only Bishop in the Province, urging him to exert himself to the utmost in the cause. (Meehans Irish Hier. 17 th Cent. c. 4 )

   Being remarkable for his devotion to the Holy See, as well as for his meekness and clemency, Dr. Dempsy was delegated to absolve from the censures of the Nuncio. ( Note of S. Congreg. in 1655 in Dr. Aloran’s Archbps. Dub. p. 352.)

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 66

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Dublin, this is where Archbishop Fleming sat in 1651. At the instance of Lord Clanricarde, the Viceroy, Fleming wrote to Dr. Dempsy, then the only Bishop in the Province, urging him to exert himself to the utmost in promoting the proposed Protectorate of the Duke of Lorrain. Dempsy was known for his devotion to the Holy See and for his meekness, and later, in 1655, he was delegated to absolve from the censures of the Nuncio.

3. Bartholomew FitzPatrick born at Boardstown, educated at Trim

   Trim · town · Meath · 1813

   The future Lord Abbot of Mount Melleray, Bartholomew FitzPatrick, was born at Boardstown, County Westmeath, in April 1813, and received his early education at a school in Trim before proceeding to Paris.

   Read the passage

   The future Lord Abbot of Mount Melleray was born at Boardstown, County Westmeath, in April, 1813. Having received his rudimentary education at a school in the town of Trim, he proceeded to Paris where he studied, firstly at St. Sulpice, and subsequently at the Irish College. He returned to Ireland in 1834 and became Professor of French, and afterwards, of Logic, at Carlow College. Not having attained the age required by the Canon Law, his Ordination did not take place till December the 17th, 1836, when he was promoted to the priesthood by the Right Rev. Dr. Nolan. On the resignation of Dean Byrne in 1837, Father FitzPatrick was advanced to that office. He left Carlow College in 1841, and was for a short time employed in missionary duties, first at Athy, and afterwards at Booterstown. In May, 1843, he joined the Trappist Community at Mount Melleray, and, in 1848, on the resignation of Abbot Ryan, he was elected to the dignity of Lord Abbot.

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 200

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Trim in County Meath, this is the town where Bartholomew FitzPatrick received his rudimentary education at a local school. Born at Boardstown in County Westmeath in April 1813, he went from here to Paris, studying first at St. Sulpice and then at the Irish College. He came back to Ireland in 1834 and taught French and then Logic at Carlow College. Ordained on the 17th of December 1836, he became Dean the following year. He left Carlow in 1841, did missionary work at Athy and Booterstown, and in May 1843 joined the Trappist community at Mount Melleray. In 1848, on the resignation of Abbot Ryan, he was elected Lord Abbot.

4. Bishop Matthew Sanders, native of Drogheda, builds choir of Leighlin Cathedral

   Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow

   Matthew Sanders, Bishop of Leighlin and a native of Drogheda, built the choir of the Cathedral at Leighlin.

   Read the passage

   Matthew Sanders, Bishop of Leighlin ; native of Drogheda, built choir of Cathedral, Leighlin, . . .50

   Dr. Leverous appointed Bishop of Leighlin on unfounded Report of death of Dr. Sanders, . ,,

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 317

5. Conal Moore, Vicar-General, linked to O'More family of Leix

   Abbeyleix · town · Laois · 1676–1704

   Conal More was registered in 1704 as Parish Priest of Tulore, Disert-Galen and Clonkeen (the present parishes of Abbeyleix and Ballinakill) in Queen's County, with local tradition holding he was of the O'Mores of Leix and a relative of Sarsfield, Earl of Lucan.

   Read the passage

   f We find Conal More registered, in 1704, as Parish Priest, then and for 28 years previously, of Tulore, Disert-Galen and Clonkeen ( i.e . the present parishes of Abbeyleix and Ballinakill,)in Queen’s County. The local tradition states that he was of the family of the O’Mores of Leix, and that he was, moreover, a near relative of Sarsfield Earl of Lucan. Anna, daughter of the famous Rory O’More, was mother of Patk. Sarsfield, but the precise degree of relationship between her and Fr. Conal More, has not been ascertained.

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 72

6. Consecration of Bishop Edward Nolan at Carlow Cathedral

   Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1834

   Edward Nolan was elected successor to Dr. Doyle by Propaganda in 1834, and his Consecration took place in the Cathedral, Carlow, on the 28th of October following, performed by Archbishop Murray assisted by the Bishops of Ossory and Ferns.

   Read the passage

   clergy, convened by Dr. Doyle for the purpose of nominating a Coadjutor with the right of succession, placed, by their votes, the name of the Rev. Edward Nolan first on the list of those wrhom they recommended for that position, to the Holy See. Dr. Nolan was, at the time, Vice-President and Professor of Theology at Carlow College. On the 21st of July he was elected successor to Dr. Doyle by Propaganda ; his Brief from the Pope was dated August the 31st, 1834. {Brady). The Consecration of the new Prelate took place in the Cathedral, Carlow, on the 28th of October following, by Archbishop Murray, assisted by the Bishops of Ossory and Ferns.

   Dr. Nolan was born on the 21st of April, 1793, at Tullow, County Carlow, where his father, James Nolan, occupied a position of respectability. Sir Bernard Burke’s “ Visitation of Seats, and Arms,” page 57, sets forth his descent in a direct line from Cahir O’Nolan of Ballykealy, who died on the 15th of January, 1592. James Nolan who was born in 1758, married, in 1787, Mary Moore of Tullow, and, dying in 1819, left issue five sons, of whom Edward was the second eldest; and two daughters*

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

7. Convent of St. Joseph at Danelagh Assists Carlow Cathedral Building

   near Ranelagh · street · Dublin · 1828

   The several Convents in the Diocese, including that of St. Joseph at Danelagh, agreed to assist the Carlow cathedral project through daily prayer offered to God in honour of the Blessed Virgin for its protection and success.

   Read the passage

   posed our entire fund. We had also obtained of the several Convents or Nunneries in the Diocese and that of St. Joseph at Danelagh, that they would assist us by daily prayer to be offered by these several Communities to God in honour of the Blessed Virgin that she might protect and assist, by her powerful intercession, our feeble efforts to promote the honour of her name and the glory of God. We were assisted by her beyond our hopes, and it is owing to her intercession that the good work has prospered even in our hands, and is likely to be completed beyond all the expectations we had formed.

   Our first efforts were greatly delayed and embarrassed by the water from the quarries gushing in with great violence upon the newly opened foundations, so as to cause us to deliberate about relinquishing the attempt already made. We persevered, however, and succeeded through God’s assistance^ The plan of Mr. Joseph Lynch, on which we proceeded for the first year, appeared to us too contracted. We laid it aside, and obtained from the College and Convent space at either side to extend the Transepts. We then employed Mr. Thomas A. Cobden as architect, who, since then, has designed and directed all the

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 103

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere about Ranelagh stood the Convent of St. Joseph at Danelagh. In 1828, the builders of the Carlow cathedral asked the several convents and nunneries of the diocese, including this one, to assist them by daily prayer offered to God in honour of the Blessed Virgin, that she might protect and help their efforts to promote her honour and the glory of God. They wrote that they were assisted beyond their hopes, and that it was owing to her intercession that the work prospered and was likely to be completed beyond all expectations they had formed. The building had a rough start. Water from the quarries gushed in with great violence on the newly opened foundations, so much that they deliberated about giving up the attempt. They persevered and succeeded through God's assistance. The first plan, by Mr. Joseph Lynch, seemed too contracted after a year, so they laid it aside and obtained space from the College and Convent at either side to extend the transepts. They then employed Mr. Thomas A. Cobden as architect, who since designed and directed all the work.

8. Descent from Cahir O'Nolan of Ballykealy

   Ballykealy · townland · Kerry · 1592

   Sir Bernard Burke's Visitation of Seats and Arms sets forth Edward Nolan's descent in a direct line from Cahir O'Nolan of Ballykealy, who died on the 15th of January, 1592.

   Read the passage

   Dr. Nolan was born on the 21st of April, 1793, at Tullow, County Carlow, where his father, James Nolan, occupied a position of respectability. Sir Bernard Burke’s “ Visitation of Seats, and Arms,” page 57, sets forth his descent in a direct line from Cahir O’Nolan of Ballykealy, who died on the 15th of January, 1592. James Nolan who was born in 1758, married, in 1787, Mary Moore of Tullow, and, dying in 1819, left issue five sons, of whom Edward was the second eldest; and two daughters*

   Whilst the mother of the future Bishop was still a girl, Dr. Keeffe, the then Bishop, gave her an episcopal ring, telling her to keep it for one of her sons who should be a Bishop. His mother kept the ring, not mentioning the matter except to her husband, and, upon Dr. Keeffe’s demise, gave it to the Right Rev. Dr. Delany, informing him of the circumstances under which it came into her possession. Dr. Delany accepted it, but only in trust, and returned it before his death, in 1814. This ring is still in the possession of a member of the family. At an early age Edward Nolan became a pupil at Carlow College ; his name and those of his brothers John and Thomas appear on the rolls of that institution in 1804. Patrick and Daniel also received

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

9. Doyle joins the Augustinian Convent at New Ross after Peninsula service

   New Ross · townland · Wexford · 1808

   After returning to Ireland in December 1808 following his involvement fighting Napoleon's invasion of the Peninsula, James Doyle proceeded to the Convent of the Order at New Ross.

   Read the passage

   James Doyle returned to Ireland in December, 1808, and shortly afterwards proceeded to the Convent of the Order at New Ross. His ordination as priest took place at Enniscorthy on Rosary Sunday, October 1st, 1809, Dr. Ryan, Coadjutor to the Bishop of Ferns, being the officiating Prelate. After his ordination he continued attached to the Community at Ross, engaged in the study of Theology, whilst, at the same time, he acted as Professor of Logic, and also took his part in the clerical duties attaching to his position.

   In July 1813, Dr. Doyle first became connected with his future Diocese, by his appointment to a Professorship in Carlow College. His first chair was that of Rhetoric ; on the death of

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 91

10. Doyle's novitiate at Grantstown

    near Grantstown · minor feature · Wexford · 1805–1806

    In 1805 James Doyle entered the Augustinian Novitiate at Grantstown on the Wexford coast near Carnsore Point, making his profession there in January 1806.

    Read the passage

    Having made choice of the ecclesiastical state, James Doyle in 1805, entered the Novitiate of the Augustinians, at Grantstown, a place on the Wexford coast, in the direction of Carnsore Point. Here he made his profession, in January, 1806, and, some months later, he set out for Coimbra, where he took tip his residence at the Augustinian College de Graga, which was annexed to the great Portuguese University.

    The invasion of the Peninsula by Napoleon in November, 1807, disturbed the course of the young Augustinian’s studies; in the year following he took an active part with the natives and their English allies in ridding the country of the invader.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 91

11. Dr Delany builds convents and monasteries at Tullow and Mountrath

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1783–1812

    During his administration Dr Delany built and endowed two Convents of women, one at Tullow and another at Mountrath, and also laid the foundation of two Monasteries of men in the same towns, which he partially endowed.

    Read the passage

    “ During his administration, the circumstances of the Catholics improved through the relaxation of the Penal Laws, and with unwearied zeal this Bishop, aided by them, laboured successfully to rebuild chapels, to increase the number of the clergy, and to promote religious instruction, by means of schools, confraternities, and the circulation of useful books. He held in his hand, as it were, the hearts of his flock, and moulded them as he pleased, or, rather, as God required of him to do. He built and endowed two Convents of women, one at Tullow, another at Mountrath ; he also laid the foundation of the two Monasteries of men in the same towns, which he partially endowed. He prescribed Pules for both Congregations, he founded two Chaplaincies attached to the Convents just mentioned, with several other religious works or Institutions. His labours were unceasing, and an ardent love of God, with a tenderness and compassion for sinners, seemed to be the characteristic virtues of his life. St. Francis de Sales was the great model of his private and Episcopal labours, and, like him, he became the instrument whereby the Almighty wrought numerous conversions, as well from heresy as from vice. His habits were frugal, his demeanour condescending ; humbly he

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 87

12. Dr. Kane's devotion to St Philip Neri while pastor of Philipstown

    Philipstown · townland · Kildare · 1867

    On his appointment to Philipstown, Dr. Kane wrote that he gloried to be under the shadow of St. Philip, reflecting his tender devotion to the saint, which continued to his deathbed prayers.

    Read the passage

    Dr. Kane had a most tender devotion to St. Philip Neri, after whom, indeed, his character seems to have been specially formed. On his appointment to Philipstown he wrote that he gloried to be under the shadow of St. Philip ; and on his death-bed he prayed most fervently to “ dear St. Philip,” to whom he acknowledged he was so much indebted. No wonder that a warm and lasting friendship sprang up between him and that other still greater child and client of St. Philip, Cardinal Newman. The following touching letter was received from this great Oratorian in reply to one announcing the death of Dr. Kane : —

    “The Oratory, Birmingham, July 20th, 1883.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 314

13. Dr. Kinsella honours Dr. FitzGerald's memory in Carlow Cathedral

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1843

    When Dr. FitzGerald, former President of Carlow College, died, Dr. Kinsella attended his Month's Memory held in Carlow Cathedral on 10 October 1843, in the company of five other Prelates, delivering an address on the deceased's virtues.

    Read the passage

    warmly attached — was drawing to a close, Dr. Kinsella was assiduous in his attendance on the dying Prelate ; and when the tomb had closed over his remains, the Bishop of Ossory pronounced his panegyric. Extended extracts from this funeral oration have already been inserted in these pages. Again, when Dr. FitzGerald, the President of the College, under whom he had served, rested in death, Dr. Kinsella attended his Month’s Memory, held in Carlow Cathedral on the 10th of October, 1843, in company with five other Prelates, and delivered an address on the virtues and good works of the deceased. Dr. Kinsella died December the 12th, 1845.

    The Rev. William Clowry.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 188

14. Erection of the Temple within the Convent enclosure at Tullow

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1809

    In 1809 a Temple, still standing within the Convent enclosure at Tullow, was erected in honour of the Real Presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist, intended as a Station for Benediction during Eucharistic Processions laid out by Dr Delany.

    Read the passage

    Dr. Delany’s ardent devotion towards the Beal Presence of our Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist prompted him to avail himself of every means and to use every opportunity to draw all hearts to adore and pay loving homage to that consoling and lifegiving Mystery. When Coadjutor to Dr. Keeffe he commenced the Procession and the Adoration of theBlessed Sacrament during the Octave of Corpus Christi. These devotions were continued until they were interrupted by the insurrection of 1798. On the completion of the new church in 1805 these devotions were resumed. In laying out the walks in the Convent grounds Dr. Delany had specially in view to accommodate these Processions. The Temple, still standing within the Convent enclosure, was erected in 1809 in honour of our Lord Jesus Christ really present in the Holy Eucharist, and was intended to serve as a Station for Benediction at the Procession of the Most Holy Sacrament. Early in the year 1812, the health of the Bishop, which had been for some time previously in a failing state, showed symptoms of an alarming nature. Hitherto some hopes were entertained that his disease would, in time, yield to the remedies prescribed, but it now

    90

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 88

15. Francis Haly inducted Parish Priest of Kilcock by Dr. Doyle

    Kilcock · town · Kildare · 1822–1838

    In 1822, Francis Haly was inducted as Parish Priest of Kilcock by the illustrious Dr. Doyle, and laboured in this mission for sixteen years, noted for his scrupulous exactness and devotion to education.

    Read the passage

    Francis Haly. — On the 28th of December, 1887, Propaganda elected Dr. Haly successor to Dr. Nolan, and on the same day his election was approved by the Pope. {Brady). Francis Haly was a native of the parish of Doonane, in the Queen’s County. The date of his birth is uncertain, but those who knew him from his childhood represent him as being, at the time of his demise, in his 71st or 72nd year,* accordingly he was born about the year 1783. In 1807 he entered the College of Maynooth, where he completed his studies and was ordained priest in 1812. His first appointment was to the Curacy of Rathvilly where he remained one year. In the year following, he was appointed Administrator of Mountrath, which was then a mensal parish. In this position he remained for upwards of eight years, “ always displaying the same active zeal, the same assiduous application to the duties of his sacred calling, the same forgetfulness of self, and the same consideration for others, which marked his career to its close.” In 1822, he was inducted Parish Priest of Kilcock by the illustrious Dr. Doyle. For 16 years, he laboured in this mission. “ A scrupulous exactness in the discharge of his pastoral duties — a capacity for governing, which, without much effort on his part, produced the happiest results for his parishioners — an affectionate solicitude for the welfare of his flock — above all, an enthusiastic devotion to the cause of education — a devotion which never waned, and which died within him only when his heart ceased to beat — distinguished him as a model amongst Pastors, and produced for his people the happiest results.”

    On the 18th of February, 1824, Dr. Doyle thus writes to the P.P. of Kilcock : —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 136

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kilcock, this is the town where Francis Haly served as Parish Priest for sixteen years. A native of Doonane in Queen's County, born around 1783, he entered Maynooth in 1807 and was ordained priest in 1812. After a year in the curacy of Rathvilly and more than eight years as administrator of Mountrath, he was inducted here in 1822 by the illustrious Dr. Doyle. He was remembered for "a scrupulous exactness in the discharge of his pastoral duties" and above all for an enthusiastic devotion to the cause of education, which, as the record says, "never waned, and which died within him only when his heart ceased to beat." His capacity for governing, without much effort, produced the happiest results for his parishioners, and he was called "a model amongst Pastors."

16. James Maher educated at Quaker school in Ballitore

    Ballitore · town · Kildare

    James Maher received his rudimentary education at a Quaker's school at Ballitore before entering Carlow College in 1808.

    Read the passage

    “ He was born at Donore, County Carlow, on the 24th of May, 1793. His parents, shortly after his birth, removed to Kilrusb, County Kildare. Young though he was, the unusual occurrences of the year 1798 left a strong impression on his memory ; he had a distinct recollection of having spent night after night, with his parents and the other members of his family, in a sandpit situated upon the farm, being obliged to have recourse to this measure in order to avoid the outrages to which even the most peaceable inhabitants were constantly subjected by the brutal yeomanry and soldiery whom the proclamation of Martial Law had practically rendered irresponsible for their conduct. Having received his rudimentary education at a Quaker’s School at Bally tore, James Maher entered Carlow College in 1808, where he continued for eight years. Then, after remaining a year at home, he, in June, 1817, set out for the Eternal City, where in the Vincentian House of Retreat at Monte Citorio, he pursued his Theological studies. On the 9th of September, 1821, he received the Order of Priesthood and, some weeks later, set out on his return to Ireland. His first appointment was to the curacy of Kildare, but, after a few months, he was transferred to Carlow. In 1827, Father Maher was appointed Parish Priest of Leighlin Bridge. Towards the close of 1830, he was translated to the united parishes of Goresbridge and Paulstown. In 1833, the Bishop, Doctor Doyle, finding his illness on the increase expressed a wish to Father Maher that he should return to Carlow and take up his abode with him at Braganza. This wish was readily complied with ; Father Maher at once resigned his parish and it became his privilege to assist that great Prelate, whom he loved with true filial devotedness, during the last

    178

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 173

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballitore in Kildare, this is where James Maher received his rudimentary education at a Quaker school. He was born at Donore in County Carlow on the 24th of May 1793, and his parents moved to Kilrusb in County Kildare shortly after. He was only a small child during the rebellion of 1798, but the violence left a deep mark on him. He remembered spending night after night with his family in a sandpit on the farm, hiding from the yeomanry and soldiery let loose under Martial Law. From the Quaker school here in Ballitore, Maher went on to Carlow College in 1808 and stayed eight years. After a year at home, he set out for Rome in June 1817 to study theology at the Vincentian House of Retreat at Monte Citorio. He was ordained a priest on the 9th of September 1821 and returned to Ireland weeks later. His first curacy was at Kildare, then he was transferred to Carlow. In 1827 he became Parish Priest of Leighlin Bridge, and towards the close of 1830 he was moved to the united parishes of Goresbridge and Paulstown. In 1833, Bishop Doyle, whose illness was worsening, asked Maher to return to Carlow and live with him at Braganza. Maher readily agreed, resigned his parish, and assisted the great prelate during his last days.

17. O'Connor's parish works in Maryborough

    Maryborough · townland · Laois

    Nicholas O'Connor served as Parish Priest and Vicar-Forane of Maryborough, where he built the church, established schools and chapels, and founded the Presentation Convent and a house of Christian Brothers.

    Read the passage

    The College books show that “ Mr. O’Connor of Baltinglass,” commenced as teacher of classics there, in October, 1804. On his subsequent promotion to Holy Orders, he continued at the College as Professor of the Humanities until he received charge of the Parish of Maryborough, where he also discharged the duties of Yicar-Forane and Master of Conference. He died on the 17th of February, 1855, aged 75 years. “The Monuments of his zealous labours that are to be seen, in the Church of Maryborough which he built, in the other Chapels and Schools of the Parish, in the Presentation Convent, and in the House of the Christian Brothers that he established, will give some idea to a future generation, of his far greater labours for the moral improvement of the Parish, during his long care of it.” ( Inscription over his grave .)

    Rev. Joseph D’Raftery.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 172

18. Provincial Synod held at Tyrchogir near Portarlington, 1640

    Portarlington · town · Laois · 1640

    A Provincial Synod was held on 29 July 1640 at Tyrchogir, near the present town of Portarlington, likely chosen for the convenience of the ailing Bishop of Kildare, who may have resided nearby at a place still called Bishop's Wood.

    Read the passage

    During the Episcopate of Dr. MacGeoghegan a Provincial Synod was held, on the 29th of July, 1640, at Tyrchogir, near

    BISHOPS OF KILDARE.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

19. Rev. Benjamin Joseph Braughall born in Kildare town

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1780

    The remarkable and saintly priest Rev. Benjamin Joseph Braughall was born in the town of Kildare about 1780 before entering Carlow College as an aspirant to the priesthood in 1795.

    Read the passage

    This remarkable and saintly Priest was born in the town of Kildare about the year 1780. He entered Carlow College as an aspirant to the Priesthood on the 7th of November, 1795, as we learn from the Register of that institution, and left on the 7th of August, 1796. He subsequently pursued his studies at Salamanca and Rome, passing some years in the Irish College of the Eternal City, and was there promoted to the priesthood, probably in the early part of the year 1807. On his way to Ireland he sojourned for some time in the Peninsula as appears from the following, written from Lisbon by the Nuncio, to the Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin : —

    “ I lime ac Rme Domine.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 274

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, this is the town where a remarkable and saintly priest, the Reverend Benjamin Joseph Braughall, was born around 1780. At fifteen he entered Carlow College as an aspirant to the priesthood, on the 7th of November 1795, and left the following August. He then studied for years at Salamanca and at the Irish College in Rome, where he was ordained, probably in the early part of 1807. On his way back to Ireland he spent some time in the Peninsula, as a letter from Lisbon by the Nuncio to the Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin makes clear.

20. Rev. Daniel McCarthy becomes chaplain at Curragh Camp

    near The Curragh · locality · Kildare · 1855

    On the formation of the military camp at the Curragh in 1855, the Rev. Daniel McCarthy, formerly a professor at Carlow College and administrator of the Cathedral parish, was appointed chaplain to the forces stationed there.

    Read the passage

    Father McCarthy was a native of Cork, and was nephew to the Right Rev. Florence McCarthy who was consecrated Bishop of Antinoe in partibus and appointed Coadjutor to Dr. Moylan of Cork in 1804, but predeceased that Prelate. Father McCarthy made his ecclesiastical studies at Carlow, and was appointed Professor of Rhetoric on his ordination in 1831. He remained at the College up to the year 1837, when he became one of the priests of the Cathedral parish of which he was subsequently Administrator. On the formation of the military camp at the Curragh in 1855, he was appointed chaplain to the forces. On the death of the Rev. P. Hicky, P.P. of Arless, in November 1857, Father McCarthy was named his successor. He died in 1881.

    The Rey. Patrick Byrne.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 199

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming into the Curragh now, and it was here in 1855 that a military camp was formed. The man appointed chaplain to the forces was the Reverend Daniel McCarthy, a native of Cork and nephew of the Right Reverend Florence McCarthy, who had been consecrated Bishop of Antinoe in partibus and made Coadjutor to Doctor Moylan of Cork in 1804. Daniel McCarthy had studied at Carlow and was appointed Professor of Rhetoric on his ordination in 1831. He stayed at the college until 1837, when he became a priest of the Cathedral parish, and later its administrator. After his chaplaincy at the Curragh began, he was named successor to the Reverend P. Hicky, parish priest of Arless, who died in November 1857. McCarthy himself died in 1881.

21. Rev. Dr. Kelly's grave inscription at Kellistown

    Kellistown · parish · Carlow · 1799

    The first Professor named in the Carlow College books, Rev. Dr. Kelly, is believed to be the same J. Kelly, Parish Priest of Rathoe and Ballon, whose tomb inscription at Kellistown records his death on 5 March 1799.

    Read the passage

    The first Professor named in the College books is the Rev. Doctor Kelly, who became connected with the house on the 20th of October, 1793, and left in the following March. There is reason to suppose him to be the same “ Rev. J. Kelly, D.D., Parish Priest of Rathoe and Ballon,” who, according to the inscription on his tomb at Kellistown “ Departed this life on the 5th March, 1799, aged 43 years.’’

    The next Professors of note we meet with are the Rev. Mr. Nogier, who came to the College November 19th, 1794; the Rev. Mr. La Brune, and the Rev. Mr. Chabaux, who came in April, 1795. These were the three French Emigrant Priests referred to by Dr. Delany. They continued at Carlow College for several years, but ultimately returned to their own country. We are indebted to the accomplished Author of “Irish Wits and Worthies,” for the following, p. 93 : — “The late Very Rev. Dr. Yore was fond of telling the following ancedote : ‘ One day, when walking in Carlow College park, my letters and the Evening Post were placed in my hands, containing the news of

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 165

22. Dissolution of St. Stephen's Monastery at Old Leighlin

    Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow · 1421–1458

    During Bishop Thomas Fleming's episcopate, the ancient Monastery of St. Stephen at Old Leighlin was dissolved by papal authority at the request of the Dean of Leighlin, and its lands were annexed to the Deanery.

    Read the passage

    a.d. 1421. Thomas Fleming, Bachelor in Divinity and a Minorite, was advanced to the See of Leighlin by a Brief of the Pope, dated the 28th of April. “ Quarto Kal. Maii, 1432, referente Card, de Comite, prov. est eccl. Leighlinen. provinciae Dublinen. vac. per mortem S.P. ultimi Episcopi, de persona Fratris Thomae, Ord. Frat. Minorum, Baccalaurei in Theologia.” {Vatican Archives , apud Brady) Thady Dowling, the Protestant Chancellor of Leighlin, states in his Annals that this Prelate, whom he erroneously supposes to have been an Augustinian Canon, died at Leighlin, and that his body, as he had ordered by his will, was conveyed to Kilkenny to be interred in a Monastery of his Order. During his Episcopate the ancient Monastery of St. Stephen, at Old Leighlin, was dissolved, by authority of Pope Eugenius IV., at the desire of Nicholas Cloal, Dean of Leighlin, and the lands of it annexed to the Deanery. This Bishop was fined for non-attendance at a Parliament held in Dublin, in 1450, by Richard, Duke of York, who had been appointed Lord Lieutenant of Ireland the preceding year. “ He sate,” says Ware, “ till the year 1458, but how long after I know not.

    Dermitius or Dermod, was the next Bishop, of whom nothing more appears to be known, nor even this, but for his name occurring in the provision of his successor.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 52

23. Bishop Finn dies at Killeigh, Kings County

    Killeigh · town · Offaly · 1085

    Finn, son of Gussan, Bishop of Cill-dara, died at Cill-achaidh (Killeigh, Kings County) in 1085, according to the Four Masters, though Ware states he died at Achonry, creating confusion with a later bishop of the same name.

    Read the passage

    “ a.d. 1085. Finn, son of Gussan, son of Gorman, Bishop of Cill-dara, died at Cill-achaidh,” i.e. Killeigh, Kings County. (Four Masters.) Ware states that he died at Achonry. A Bishop of Kildare of the same name, who died in 1160 (vide infra), is recorded to have died, also at Killeigh and to be there interred. (Ware) Evidently there is some confusion here; whether it be caused by the similarity of name of two distinct bishops or by the name of one being entered twice over, by mistake, would be difficult to determine. The latter explanation appears to be the more probable, as there certainly was a Bishop of Kildare of this name at the latter date.

    The next Bishop of this See appears to have been Ferdomnach, who was Bishop of Kildare in 1096 (Usher. Ind. Ghron. ad ann),

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 12

24. Bishop Geoffry Hereford buried at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1447–1464

    Geoffry Hereford, a Dominican advanced to the See of Kildare in 1447, died about 1464 and was buried at Kildare.

    Read the passage

    Geoffry Hereford, a Dominican, was advanced to this See, in 1447, at the instance of King Henry YI. His name, as Bishop elect of Kildare, occurs in the following entry, dated 1st September, 1447 : — “ R.P.D. Galfridus Herford, electus Daren, person aliter obtulit,” etc. {Brady's Episc. Sue.) Ware states that his consecration took place at Easter, 1449, but it could hardly have been delayed so long after his appointment. He died about 1464, and was buried at Kildare. {Ware.)

    Richard Lang next appears as Bishop of Kildare. Ware describes him as “ a man of great gravity and prudence.” On the death of John Bole, Archbishop of Armagh, in 1470, Dr.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Kildare now. A Dominican friar named Geoffry Hereford became bishop of this see in 1447, advanced at the instance of King Henry the Sixth. His consecration, Ware states, took place at Easter 1449, though that seems a long wait after his appointment. He died around 1464 and was buried here at Kildare.

25. Braughall erects the chapel of Shanahoe

    Shanahoe · townland · Laois

    While serving at Raheen, Father Braughall erected the chapel of Shanahoe, obtaining the site and a generous donation from a Mr. Bourden then residing at Springmount in that vicinity.

    Read the passage

    Father Braughall returned to Ireland in 1807, and served for some ten years as curate at Raheen, in the Queen’s County, which at that time was included in the Parish of Clonenagh. Whilst there, he erected the chapel of Shanahoe, the site for which, and also a generous donation, he obtained from a Mr. Bourden then residing at Springmount, in that vicinity. He was appointed Parish Priest of Graig-namanagh in June, 1818, in succession to Father Lewis Moore.

    283

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 274

26. Clergy Deputation Meets Bishop Walshe at Braganza

    Braganza · street · Carlow · 1881

    A deputation of diocesan clergy, led by Coadjutor Bishop Dr. Lynch, waited on Bishop Walshe at Braganza to read an address of congratulation on his 25th episcopal anniversary.

    Read the passage

    On the 30th March, 1856, the Right Rev. Dr. James Walshe, was consecrated Bishop of the united Dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin. The 25th anniversary of his consecration, and the festivities usual on so joyous an occasion were celebrated with with great pomp and ceremony in Carlow Cathedral, on Passion Sunday, 3rd April, 1881. The celebrant of the High Mass was the Rev. A. Wall,Adm. The Rev. M. J. Murphy, Vice-President, Carlow College, preached, and made graceful and touching allusion to the Bishop’s Jubilee. After Mass the “ Te Deum ” was sung, and Solemn Benediction of the Most Holy Sacrament given. The vast congregation seemed deeply earnest and devotional, and there is,no doubt that Dr. Walshe is loved and revered by his Carlow children. But not in Carlow only, but through the entire diocese the occasion was one of great rejoicing. His clergy gladly seized the opportunity of presenting Dr. Walshe with an address and testimonial, in token of their esteem and attachment. On Tuesday a deputation, consisting of the Vicars of the diocese, the President and Vice-President of the College, and! some of the clergy, waited on his Lordship at Braganza, where, in the name of all the clergy, the Right Rev. Dr. Lynch, Coadjutor Bishop, read the following address: —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 155

27. Daniel Delany born at Paddock near Mountrath

    Paddock · townland · Laois · 1747

    Daniel Delany was born in 1747 at Paddock, near Mountrath, to a wealthy farming family; his father died while he and his brother John were young, leaving them in the care of their mother and aunts.

    Read the passage

    From a short biographical sketch preserved at the Monastery of Tullow and also from the Annals of the Sisters of St. Brigid, we learn some further particulars regarding this Prelate. He is stated to have been born in 1747 at Paddock, near Mountrath. His parents, who were of the wealthy farming class, had two sons, Daniel and John. Whilst they were yet young, their father died, leaving his children in charge of their mother and their maternal aunts, Mrs. Corcoran and Miss Fitzpatrick. John died young, after which all their love and care were given to the young Daniel, who was a boy of uncommon quickness and cheerfulness. He was very fair and handsome, with a most amiable disposition, and a great love for God and his neighbour.

    When he had attained to the age of sixteen he was sent to St. Omers, where he grew in grace and learning. From thence he must have proceeded to Paris for the completion of his studies, where, it appears, he remained, probably attached to the staff of some of the ecclesiastical educational establishments of that city, until he was thirty years of age. He returned to Ireland in 1777, when he went as curate to the Bight Bev. Dr. Keeffe, who resided in Tullow. In April, 1783, on the translation of Dr. O’Beilly, Coadjutor Bishop, to the Primatial See of Armagh, Dr. Delany was appointed his successor.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 88

28. Dean Staunton's death and burial, later removed to College Cemetery

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1814

    Dean Staunton died on 1 September 1814 and was first interred at the Parish Church, Carlow; when the new Cathedral was later begun, his remains, together with those of his successor William FitzGerald, were moved to the College Cemetery.

    Read the passage

    Dean Staunton died on the 1st of September, 1814, and was interred at the Parish Church ; when the new Cathedral was commenced, his remains and those of his successor in the Pastoral office, the Very Rev. William FitzGerald, V.F., were removed to the Cemetery of the College. On the 29th of September, 1814, the Month’s Memory for the repose of the

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 164

29. Doyle appointed Professor at Carlow College

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1813

    In July 1813 Dr. Doyle first became connected with his future diocese through his appointment to a Professorship of Rhetoric in Carlow College.

    Read the passage

    In July 1813, Dr. Doyle first became connected with his future Diocese, by his appointment to a Professorship in Carlow College. His first chair was that of Rhetoric ; on the death of

    * Ballinvegga was the scene of an engagement in 1642, between General Preston and Ormond, in which the former was defeated.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 91

30. Doyle's schooling at New Ross under Father Crane

    New Ross · townland · Wexford · 1798–1805

    After early schooling, James Doyle attended a school newly opened at New Ross by Father Crane, O.S.A., who fostered his leanings toward the ecclesiastical state and remained his devoted friend.

    Read the passage

    James Warren Doyle was born at Donard, otherwise called Ballinvegga* within six miles of New Ross, where his parents resided, in the Autumn of 1786. James Doyle, his father, was already six weeks dead when the future Bishop was born. He received his first instruction from his mother, Anne Warren, who is represented as having been gifted with good natural abilities and more than ordinary attainments. At twelve years old he was sent to a school kept by a Mr. Grace from which, after two years, he passed to a school lately opened at New Ross by Father Crane, O.S.A. Indications were already observable of his leanings to the ecclesiastical state which, no doubt, were fostered by his teacher and ever-devoted friend. In a letter to Dr. Gibbons, dated 17th October, 1823, Dr. Doyle expresses the high esteem and affectionate reverence in which he held Father Crane : “ There is no person now living,” he writes, “ with the exception of my brother, to whom I have been so long allied by affection and friendship, or to whom I am under more weighty obligations.” (Life, Vol. 1 , p. 11.)

    Having made choice of the ecclesiastical state, James Doyle in 1805, entered the Novitiate of the Augustinians, at Grantstown, a place on the Wexford coast, in the direction of Carnsore Point. Here he made his profession, in January, 1806, and, some months later, he set out for Coimbra, where he took tip his residence at the Augustinian College de Graga, which was annexed to the great Portuguese University.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 91

31. Dr. Kane's clerical postings: Leighlin-Bridge, Tullow, Philipstown, Baltinglass

    Leighlinbridge · town · Carlow · 1857–1878

    Dr. Kane was appointed Curate in Leighlin-Bridge in 1857, then Administrator at Tullow in 1860, promoted to pastoral charge of Philipstown in 1867, and finally transferred to Baltinglass in June 1871, before becoming Vicar-General of the Diocese in 1878.

    Read the passage

    appointed to the Mission, first, in 1857, as Curate in Leighlin-Bridge, and then, on the 3rd of March, 1860, as Administrator at Tullow. He was promoted to the pastoral charge of Philipstown on the 4th of January, 1867, and, finally, was transferred to Baltinglassin June, 1871. He was appointed Vicar-General of the Diocese in succession to the late Dr. Healy of Monasterevan, in 1878. It is not for us to tell the ability, the tenderness, and the prudence with which the duties of his exalted and onerous office were discharged.

    Dr. Kane had a most tender devotion to St. Philip Neri, after whom, indeed, his character seems to have been specially formed. On his appointment to Philipstown he wrote that he gloried to be under the shadow of St. Philip ; and on his death-bed he prayed most fervently to “ dear St. Philip,” to whom he acknowledged he was so much indebted. No wonder that a warm and lasting friendship sprang up between him and that other still greater child and client of St. Philip, Cardinal Newman. The following touching letter was received from this great Oratorian in reply to one announcing the death of Dr. Kane : —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 314

32. Dr. Kane's death and month's memory office at Carlow College

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1883

    Dr. Kane died on Monday, 2 July 1883; his Month's Memory Office took place on Wednesday, 1 August, at which the Very Rev. M. J. Murphy pronounced his panegyric at Carlow College.

    Read the passage

    The priests who laboured with Dr. Kane and who knew his sterling worth, the people to whose welfare he devoted every thought of his mind and every moment of his life, will mourn long the saintly and unselfish man of God who went about doing good, inflamed indeed always with energy and zeal, but of whom, after his Divine Master, it may be written as truly as of any man who ever lived, ‘ That the bruised reed he would not break, and the smoking flax he would not extinguish. Dr. Kane died on Monday, the 2nd of July, 1883 ; his Month’s Memory Office took place on Wednesday, the 1st of August, on which occasion the Very Rev. M. J. Murphy, V.P., and Professor of Theology, Carlow College, pronounced his Panegyric, from which the foregoing brief memoir has been in chief part extracted.

    # It lias been decided that the Memorial to Dr. Kane is to take the shape of an Altar dedicated to St. Philip Neri.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 314

33. Exhortations at Presentation Convent chapel, Cork

    Cork · city · Cork · 1808–1809

    Besides his cathedral lectures, on Sundays Mr. England, then chaplain to the Convent, delivered an exhortation in the small chapel of the Presentation Convent, which was crowded with attendees.

    Read the passage

    “ On his return to Cork, Mr. England was appointed lecturer at the Cathedral. The Bishop himself announced the appointment from the altar, and requested the attendance of the congregation at the lectures. At the Bishop’s request he commenced a series of these on the Old and New Testaments. On Sundays, besides the lectures at the Cathedral, he delivered an exhortation in the small chapel of the Presentation Convent, which was crowded. He was at the time, chaplain of that Convent.

    “ On his arrival from Carlo w,. the present Magdalen Asylum, built at the expense of Mr. Therry, was in progress of erection. To this he immediately turned his attention and, up to the time of its opening in June 1809, he assembled six of the unfortunate beings who were to be its future inmates, whom, with the assistance of his friends, he supported, till the house should be opened for their reception, placing them under the care of the person who was afterwards matron of that institution. Another of his labours at the time was the publication of a monthly periodical, The Religious Repertory , which he originated in May of the same year, with a view to diffuse a spirit of piety amongst the people, and to withdraw them from the perusal of books of a dangerous or immoral tendency. He likewise established a circulating Library in the parish of St. Mary’s, Shandon. He next turned his attention to the city jail, and, Government not then allowing a salary for the Roman Catholic Chaplain, gave his services gratuitously for no inconsiderable time. In 1812 he was appointed President of the Diocesan College of St. Mary, opened by Dr. Moylan for the education of Candidates for Holy Orders, and taught in it the Theological course.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 170

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, you are near the Presentation Convent, where in 1808 and 1809 Mr. England, the convent's chaplain, delivered a Sunday exhortation in the small chapel. The chapel was crowded every time. Besides these exhortations, he also lectured at the Cathedral on the Old and New Testaments, a series the Bishop himself announced from the altar and requested the congregation to attend. He had arrived from Carlow to find the Magdalen Asylum, built at the expense of Mr. Therry, under construction. Before its opening in June 1809, he gathered six women who were to be its future inmates and, with help from friends, supported them until the house opened, placing them under the care of the person who would become the institution's matron. In May of that same year he began publishing a monthly periodical called The Religious Repertory, aimed at spreading piety and steering people away from books of a dangerous or immoral tendency. He also set up a circulating library in the parish of St. Mary's, Shandon. At the city jail he served as Roman Catholic chaplain without pay, since the Government did not then provide a salary for that role. In 1812 he was appointed President of the Diocesan College of St. Mary, opened by Dr. Moylan for the education of candidates for Holy Orders, and there taught the theological course.

34. Father Braughall's Farewell Greetings to Graiguenamanagh and Raheen Parishioners

    Graiguenamanagh · townland · Kilkenny · 1827

    In his letter from Lisbon, Father Joseph Braughall sends compliments to his old friends and parishioners in Graiguenamanagh and Raheen, naming several families including the Kellys, Clooneys, and Lalors of Raheen.

    Read the passage

    Mangan,by his exertions, has obtained from the King a most excellent house, one of the former noble Colleges, situated in good air, and in every way better calculated for the health of the students than our former College. It wonld afford me singular pleasure to be honoured with a letter from your Lordship, and let me know your state of health. Be so good as to present my compliments to the Curates who lived with me, to Rev. Mr. Dunn, Mr. Haly, and Mr. Tyrrell, and to the clergy at large of the Diocese; to my old friends and parishioners of Graiguenamanna and Raheen, to Mr. and Mrs. Kelly, Mr. Clooney, Miss Rossetors, Mr. Maher and family of Killeany, Mr. and Mrs. Lalor of Raheen, and Mrs. Moffit, also of Raheen, and all inquiring friends.

    “ I remain my Lord, with the highest respect and esteem,

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

35. Father Byrne's Latin tomb inscription at Carlow College cemetery

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1834

    Father Patrick Byrne's remains were interred in the cemetery of Carlow College, where a Latin inscription praises him as a true man of God and a model for the clergy he trained.

    Read the passage

    “ Hie sepultae sunt reliquiae mortales Rev. Patritii Byrne olirn alumni postea Decani in hoc Collegio Sti. Patritii.

    “ Vere homo Dei ! qui in brevi explevit tempora multa et conversatione in coelis continua in scientia Sanctorum ita profecerat ut singulis ornatus dotibus ad efformandum clerum probum ac pium alumnos baud minus quin potius exemplo quam verbo in disciplina ecclesiastica institueret necnon tanta inter moniales prudentia et cura sanctimoniam enutrivit earumque pedes in via salutis direxit ut vitae spiritualis magister merito perfectus haberetur. Obiit die Martis XIX. anno Salutis MDCCCXL, aetatis XXXIV. Requiescat in Pace.”

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

36. Father Hamilton Offered Parish of Philipstown

    Philipstown · townland · Kildare · 1866

    The parish of Philipstown fell vacant in October 1866 and the Bishop offered it to Father Hamilton for his acceptance. He tendered his resignation from his chaplaincy to the Horse Guards but was persuaded to withdraw it and was instead promoted within the army.

    Read the passage

    The parish of Philipstown falling vacant in October, 1866,* the Bishop offered it for Father Hamilton’s acceptance. He accordingly tendered his resignation of the chaplaincy to the Horse Guards, but the authorities there expressed their high estimate of his services to the troops and their regret at his thought of leaving them, and requested of him to reconsider and withdraw his resignation. On his compliance with their request they brought him home and promoted him to the rank, pay, and perquisites of a major in the army ; and, had he survived a few years longer, he would have attained to the rank and pay of a Lieutenant-colonel. He was attached, on his return, to the South Camp at Aldershot. When, in September, 1873, in consequence of failing health, he presented himself at the War Office to solicit sick leave, the military officials, who at once saw

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 212

37. Father John Carroll Born Near Burke's Birthplace at Hophall

    Hophall · townland · Laois · 1822

    Rev. John Carroll, nephew of Bishop Edmund Burke, recorded in an 1822 letter that he was born at Hophall in the parish of Maryborough, within half a mile of Dr. Burke's birthplace, and named his two cousins as parish priests of Ballinakill and Ballin near Carlow.

    Read the passage

    The Bev. John Carroll, as a distinguished child of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, is also worthy of notice in these pages. In a letter dated Orphan Asylum, 35th Street, Chicago, October 30th, 1822, he says: — “I was born at Hophall in the parish of Maryborough, within half a mile of Dr. Burke’s birthplace. My uncle Dr. Burke had two first cousins, Daniel and James Conran, both of whom were parish priests of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, the former was Pastor of Ballinakill, and the latter, of Ballin, near Carlow. My uncle was the most humble, pious, and learned priest I ever knew. He was constantly engaged in writing.”

    The “Acadian Becorder,” published in the course of the last year an interesting series of articles entitled “ Halifax in the olden time,” containing items of information gleaned from its early numbers. Treating of the years 1827-8, we meet with the following references to Father Carroll : —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 266

38. Francis Haly's curacy in Rathvilly and administratorship of Mountrath

    Rathvilly · town · Carlow · 1812–1813

    Francis Haly, later Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, began his priestly career as Curate of Rathvilly for one year before being appointed Administrator of Mountrath, a mensal parish, where he served for over eight years with active zeal.

    Read the passage

    Francis Haly. — On the 28th of December, 1887, Propaganda elected Dr. Haly successor to Dr. Nolan, and on the same day his election was approved by the Pope. {Brady). Francis Haly was a native of the parish of Doonane, in the Queen’s County. The date of his birth is uncertain, but those who knew him from his childhood represent him as being, at the time of his demise, in his 71st or 72nd year,* accordingly he was born about the year 1783. In 1807 he entered the College of Maynooth, where he completed his studies and was ordained priest in 1812. His first appointment was to the Curacy of Rathvilly where he remained one year. In the year following, he was appointed Administrator of Mountrath, which was then a mensal parish. In this position he remained for upwards of eight years, “ always displaying the same active zeal, the same assiduous application to the duties of his sacred calling, the same forgetfulness of self, and the same consideration for others, which marked his career to its close.” In 1822, he was inducted Parish Priest of Kilcock by the illustrious Dr. Doyle. For 16 years, he laboured in this mission. “ A scrupulous exactness in the discharge of his pastoral duties — a capacity for governing, which, without much effort on his part, produced the happiest results for his parishioners — an affectionate solicitude for the welfare of his flock — above all, an enthusiastic devotion to the cause of education — a devotion which never waned, and which died within him only when his heart ceased to beat — distinguished him as a model amongst Pastors, and produced for his people the happiest results.”

    On the 18th of February, 1824, Dr. Doyle thus writes to the P.P. of Kilcock : —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 136

39. Landlords' grant of ground to Myshall parish priest

    Myshall · town · Carlow · 1800

    In the income of Myshall parish, County Carlow, a grant of ground worth £30 per annum was given jointly by landlords Mr. Cornwall and Mr. Bagot, with Cornwall's bounty largely responsible for the chapel's existence.

    Read the passage

    In the income of Myshall, too, in the County of Carlow, is comprised a grant of ground to the Parish Priest, jointly, from Mr. Cornwall and Mr. Bagot, the landlords, to the amount of £30 per annum ; the chapel, rent-free, owes principally its existence to the former gentleman’s bounty and liberal exertions in its behalf. Not so, may I be permitted to remark, in the Bishop’s parish of Tullow, in the same County, where a ground rent of £10 4s. 6d. is paid for the town chapel, actually, for the greater part, reduced almost to a heap of ruin, without our being able to obtain, hitherto, a lease to rebuild the same.*

    “ Parishes in the Dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin, forty-three in number ; all, except Mountrath, composed, it is supposed, of from two to six or eight, and in some instances, more unions. There is only one religious house in the Diocese of Leighlin, and that of the Carmelite Order, in Leighlin-Bridge, consisting of two members. There is a Franciscan Friar resident in Carlow, but no convent. In the above number of Curates and Coadjutors in the Diocese of Leighlin, there are several regulars, but no Parish Priest of that order in Leighlin any more than Kildare.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 273

40. Patrick Maher of Kilrush Donates £200 to Carlow Cathedral

    Kilrush · town · Clare · 1828–1833

    Among the contributions to the building fund for Carlow Cathedral was a donation of two hundred pounds sterling from Mr. Patrick Maher of Kilrush, noted specifically among family contributions of ten to twenty pounds each.

    Read the passage

    annual contributions of the Parishioners ; of donations from persons well disposed towards us ; and of a general contribution by the people of the two Dioceses, especially by those of the Diocese of Leighlin. Be it remembered that we have also received, in addition to many contributions of from ten to twenty pounds each from several members of the same family, the sum of two hundred pounds sterling from Mr. Patrick Maher of

    Kilrush ”* The new Cathedral was completed in 1833,

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 103

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming through Kilrush in County Clare. Back around 1828, a man from this town named Patrick Maher gave 200 pounds to the building fund for Carlow Cathedral. That stood out among the donations, most of which ran from 10 to 20 pounds each from members of the same families. The cathedral was finished in 1833.

41. Priest Sir Patrick Oge active around Tullow parish

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1612

    Sir Patrick Oge, a priest, is recorded as keeping here and there in and about the parish of Tulleghfelim (Tullow) while evading the authorities during the period of persecution described in Bishop Ram's 1612 report.

    Read the passage

    8. Sir Patrick Oge, keeping hear and ther in and about the parish of Tulleghfelim.

    9. Sir Thomas Oge O’Hinnagan, frequenting the house of Garrat McKilpatrick in the Bahen in the parish of Clonmore.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 234

42. Richard O'Reilly consecrated Bishop at Kilcock parish chapel

    Kilcock · town · Kildare · 1781

    Richard O'Reilly, formerly Parish Priest of Kilcock, was consecrated Coadjutor Bishop in his own parish chapel of Kilcock by the Archbishop of Dublin in 1781, before later being translated to the Primatial See of Armagh.

    Read the passage

    The Rev. Richard O’Reilly was appointed by Propaganda, Bishop of Orope, in partibus , and Coadjutor Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, on the 23rd of April, 1781, and his Brief was dated June 20th, following. He had made his studies in Rome at the College of the Propaganda, on his return from which he devoted himself with zeal to the laborious duties of a missionary priest in his native Diocese. He was Parish Priest of Kilcock and Yicar-General of Kildare and Leighlin. His Consecration took place in his own parish Chapel of Kilcock, the consecrating Prelate being the Archbishop of Dublin, Doctor Carpenter, assisted by Doctors Troy of Ossory and Plunkett of Meath. ( Brenan’s Eccl. Hist 2, 331.) Two years afterwards Dr. O’Reilly was made Coadjutor and Administrator of Armagh cum jure successionis , being then but 37 years of age. He died, Nov. 11th, 1817, according to the Propaganda Archives, or, according to Stuart’s Armagh, on the 31st January, 1818, and was interred at Drogheda. [Brady.)

    Dr. Daniel Delany was appointed Coadjutor to Dr. Keeffe

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 86

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kilcock, there is a piece of church history in this town from 1781. Richard O'Reilly, the Parish Priest of Kilcock and Vicar-General of Kildare and Leighlin, was consecrated Coadjutor Bishop in his own parish chapel here. He had studied in Rome at the College of the Propaganda and returned to work as a missionary priest in his native diocese. The consecrating prelate was the Archbishop of Dublin, Doctor Carpenter, assisted by Doctor Troy of Ossory and Doctor Plunkett of Meath. O'Reilly had been appointed by Propaganda as Bishop of Orope in partibus and Coadjutor Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin on the 23rd of April 1781, with his Brief dated the 20th of June that year. Two years later, at just 37 years of age, he was made Coadjutor and Administrator of Armagh with right of succession. He died in either November 1817 or January 1818, depending on the source, and was buried at Drogheda.

43. St. Gobban's church at Killamery

    Killamery · townland · Kilkenny

    After resigning his monastery to Laserian, St. Gobban retired to the West of Ossory where he governed a Church at Kill-Lamreaighea, now Killamery, and was later interred at Clonenagh.

    Read the passage

    to his followers that, one day, a saintly stranger would gather together in that place as many servants of God as there were angels in that heavenly host. (Dr Moran1 s Essays on early Irish Church ; I. E. R. Vol. 2,y>. 544.) Shortly after this, St. Gobban resigned his monastery to Laserian and retired to the West of Ossory, where he governed a Church at Kill-Lam reaighea, now Killamery. He survived St. Laserian one year, and, at his death, was interred at Clonenagh. (AA. SS. p. 53 ; JJssher , etc .) In the Life of St. Laserian it is stated that he had in his monastery of Leighlin as many as fifteen hundred monks under his charge.

    Subsequent to the year 630, and during the continuance of the Paschal controversy, Laserian made a second visit to Rome, most probably as the head of a deputation sent by the southern clergy, after the Synod of Leighlin. On the occasion of this visit he was consecrated Bishop, by Pope Honorius I. ( Ussher, p. 938), who also at the same time constituted him Papal Legate. On his return, he established the See of Leighlin and contributed largely to the settlement of the Paschal computation, in the South of Ireland. ( Cnmmeanus , Ep. to Segienus , abbot of Iona , in Ussher1 s Sylloge. n. XI) St. Laserian died on the 18th of April, in the year 639, according to the most probable opinion, and was interred in his own Church. His Acts state that he died on the 14th of the Kalends of May, without naming the year. The Four Masters thus record his demise : — “ A.D. 638, Dalaise, the son of the grandson of Imdae, abbot of Leighlin (died),” on which, Dr. O’Donovan remarks, “St. Dalaise of Leighlin was otherwise called Molaise and Laisren. His festival was celebrated on the 18th of April, according to theFeilire of Aenguis, and the Irish Calendar of O’Clery.” In the former he is referred to as

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

44. Town of Old Leighlin recorded with 86 burgesses

    Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow · 1399–1420

    During the administration of Bishop Richard Rocomb, the town of Old Leighlin was inhabited by 86 burgesses, indicating its settlement size at that time.

    Read the passage

    a.d. 1399. Richard Rocomb, or, as some style him, Bokum, a Dominican friar, was appointed Bishop of Leighlin, by Pope Boniface IX. Bernard Joughe sets down his advancement as not taking place till 1400 ; and the Hibernia Dominicana states that his appointment was made on the 1st of December, 1400. During his administration the town of Old Leighlin was inhabited by 86 Burgesses. A Bishop of Leighlin, named Richard resigned his See in 1420 ; that this was Richard Rocomb there can hardly be a doubt.

    a.d. 1420. John Mulgan, rector of the Church of Lin, in the Diocese of Meath, succeeded, in pursuance of a Brief of Pope Martin V., directed to King Henry Y. An entry in the Registers of Obligazione , dated Florence, 25th of January, 1420, shows

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 51

45. Birth of Bishop James Walshe at New Ross

    New Ross · townland · Wexford · 1803

    Dr James Walshe, son of Philip Walshe and Mary Walshe née Doyle, was born at New Ross, County Wexford, on 30th June 1803; his mother was first cousin to his predecessor, J.K.L.

    Read the passage

    Dr. James Walshe, son of Philip Walshe, and his wife, Mary Walsh e, nee Doyle, wss born at New Boss, County Wexford, June 30tb, 1803. The mother of the Bishop was first-cousin to his lordship’s illustrious predecessor, J.K.L. He was educated, firstly, at a Commercial and Classical school in New Boss; next, at St. Peter’s College, Wexford ; and, finally, at St. Patrick’s College, Carlow, where he completed his Theological course and was ordained Priest, at Pentecost, 1830. He was appointed, successively, Professor of Humanities, of Moral Philosophy, and Theology, in Carlow College. He then served as Curate and, afterwards, as Administrator, of the Cathedral Parish, Carlow, acting also as Secretary to the Bishop, Dr. Haly. He subsequently rejoined the College staff, as Vice-President and Professor of Greek and Sacred Scripture, and, on the retirement of Dr. Taylor, in 1850, was appointed President. On the death of the Bishop, in 1855, Dr. Walshe, who had been for some time previously his Vicar-General, was advanced to the vacant dignity.

    After some years, Dr. Walshe, on account of declining strength petitioned the Holy See to grant him a Coadjutor, His first petition having failed, Dr. Walshe renewed his request, and Dr. James Lynch was appointed to be his Coadjutor, in 1869. (Brady’s Episcopal Succession, Vol. 1, 359. Vol. 2, 371.)

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 147

46. Carmelite house in the town of Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1800

    A religious house of Carmelites, consisting of two members, existed in the town of Kildare in 1800, one of only two convents in the diocese.

    Read the passage

    There are two religious houses or convents in the Diocese of Kildare ; one of Carmelites, consisting of two members, in the town of Kildare, and another of Dominicans at Newbridge, containing also two religious. There is no Regular a Parish Priest in the Diocese of Kildare.

    Diocese of Leighlin.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 272

    As the companion tells it

    In this town of Kildare, around 1800, a small Carmelite house held just two members. It was one of only two convents in the whole diocese, the other being a Dominican house at Newbridge with the same number. No member of a religious order served as a parish priest in the diocese at that time.

47. Dominican house at Newbridge

    Droichead Nua (Newbridge) · town · Kildare · 1800

    A Dominican religious house containing two religious was located at Newbridge, one of only two convents in the Diocese of Kildare in 1800.

    Read the passage

    There are two religious houses or convents in the Diocese of Kildare ; one of Carmelites, consisting of two members, in the town of Kildare, and another of Dominicans at Newbridge, containing also two religious. There is no Regular a Parish Priest in the Diocese of Kildare.

    Diocese of Leighlin.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 272

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Newbridge, there was a Dominican religious house here in 1800, holding just two religious. It was one of only two convents in the whole Diocese of Kildare at that time, the other being a Carmelite house in the town of Kildare with two members as well.

48. Doyle's charitable preaching and ministry in Carlow

    Carlow · townland · Carlow

    While teaching theology at Carlow College, Doyle's abundant charity extended to Carlow and its neighbourhood, filling intervals of teaching with preaching the word of God and administering the sacraments to the local population.

    Read the passage

    “ While thus devoted to the special duties of his state, he never forgot that he was by profession a preacher of the gospel ; hence his abundant charity extended itself to Carlow and its neighbourhood ; and the intervals of teaching theology in the college were filled up by the preaching of the word of God, and by the administration of the sacraments. The principal object of his life was in doing good, and labouring in the vineyard ; and whether in the pulpit or elsewhere, his sole and only object was to make men virtuous. I know I am surrounded by hundreds who knew him well, and who are well acquainted with his merits.

    “ Neither does any one take this honour to himself unless he be called by God as Aaron was, — and, as the apostle says, even Christ did not take the office of high priest until called by his Father. So your bishop never aspired to the honour he attained. When called by his superiors he received the gift ‘ with fear and trembling,’ and devoted himself to that object for which he was ordained. You, my brethren, knew him ; but there1 are strangers here who did not. His first act was to disengage himself from all sublunary objects — he recollected that the Holy Ghost, when calling Paul and Barnabas, ordered them to be separated ; and this spirit of separation from worldly affairs Hr. Hoyle possessed in an eminent degree. He fulfilled to the letter the words of Christ, wherein he says, ‘ Leave father and mother, brother and

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 111

49. Dr. Kane educated at Carlow College and ordained sub-deacon

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1845

    Dr. Kane entered his ecclesiastical studies at Carlow College, where he was ordained sub-deacon on 30 May 1845, having previously attended the Diocesan School there.

    Read the passage

    Dr. Kane’s parents resided at Ardnahue, in the County of Carlow ; he was born on the 3rd of March, 1822. Having received his primary education partly at the Monastery of Tullow, and partly at the Diocesan School, Carlow, he entered upon his ecclesiastical studies at Carlow College, where he was ordained sub-deacon on the 30th of May, 1845. He completed his theological course at Maynooth, where he had the advantage of reading, as a Dunboyne student, under the distinguished Dr. O’Hanlon. Dr. Kane received Deaconship at Maynooth, June 5th, 1846, and Priesthood, June 17th, 1848. He was a man of unquestionable talents and ability, and won the highest honours and distinctions at every stage of his College course. On the termination of his studies he was appointed, first, Dean of the Lay House, and subsequently, Professor of Natural Philosophy, in Carlow College. At this period his ability and fame as a preacher attracted the attention of the present Cardinal Newman, then Hector of the recently-established Catholic University in Dublin. At the request of Dr. Newman, Dr. Kane delivered a course of lectures in the Church of the Catholic University, which are declared by those who heard them, to have been conceived and delivered in a very high and effective style of Christian Oratory. At this time, too, his services were secured to conduct Retreats in various Colleges and Convents throughout the country; some will still remember the impressive and edifying Retreat which, while yet a young man, nearly 30 years ago, he gave to the clergy of his native Diocese. Failing health obliging him to relinquish his Professorial duties, he was

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 313

50. Father Patrick Brennan, Superior of Carlow College and Parish Priest of Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1820–1864

    Patrick Brennan, a native of Carlow town, was appointed Superior of Carlow College in 1812 and remained until 1820, when he became parish priest of Kildare. He was later made Penitentiary of Kildare and Leighlin and died at Kildare in 1864.

    Read the passage

    In 1812 Father Brennan was appointed one of the Superiors of Carlow College. He was a native of the town of Carlow. He continued at the College until 1820, when he received the pastoral charge of the Parish of Kildare. He was promoted to the dignity of Penitentiary of the Dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin. After a long, laborious and successful pastorate, he died at Kildare in 1864.

    The Right Rey. James Doyle, D.D.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 181

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, this was the parish of Father Patrick Brennan, a native of Carlow town. He came here in 1820 after serving as Superior of Carlow College since 1812. He was later made Penitentiary of Kildare and Leighlin, and died at Kildare in 1864 after what the record calls a long, laborious and successful pastorate.

51. FitzPatrick's missionary duties at Athy and Booterstown

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1841–1843

    After leaving Carlow College in 1841, Father FitzPatrick was employed for a short time in missionary duties, first at Athy and afterwards at Booterstown, before joining the Trappist Community.

    Read the passage

    The future Lord Abbot of Mount Melleray was born at Boardstown, County Westmeath, in April, 1813. Having received his rudimentary education at a school in the town of Trim, he proceeded to Paris where he studied, firstly at St. Sulpice, and subsequently at the Irish College. He returned to Ireland in 1834 and became Professor of French, and afterwards, of Logic, at Carlow College. Not having attained the age required by the Canon Law, his Ordination did not take place till December the 17th, 1836, when he was promoted to the priesthood by the Right Rev. Dr. Nolan. On the resignation of Dean Byrne in 1837, Father FitzPatrick was advanced to that office. He left Carlow College in 1841, and was for a short time employed in missionary duties, first at Athy, and afterwards at Booterstown. In May, 1843, he joined the Trappist Community at Mount Melleray, and, in 1848, on the resignation of Abbot Ryan, he was elected to the dignity of Lord Abbot.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 200

    As the companion tells it

    You're passing through Athy now. After he left Carlow College in 1841, Father FitzPatrick spent a short time doing missionary work here in this town before moving on to Booterstown. He had been born at Boardstown in County Westmeath in April 1813, studied in Paris, and served as a professor at Carlow College. In May 1843, he joined the Trappist Community at Mount Melleray, and by 1848 he was elected Lord Abbot.

52. Francis Haly appointed Administrator of Mountrath

    Mountrath · town · Laois · 1813–1822

    Following his year at Rathvilly, Francis Haly was appointed Administrator of Mountrath in 1813, a mensal parish, remaining there for upwards of eight years displaying active zeal and assiduous application to his sacred duties.

    Read the passage

    Francis Haly. — On the 28th of December, 1887, Propaganda elected Dr. Haly successor to Dr. Nolan, and on the same day his election was approved by the Pope. {Brady). Francis Haly was a native of the parish of Doonane, in the Queen’s County. The date of his birth is uncertain, but those who knew him from his childhood represent him as being, at the time of his demise, in his 71st or 72nd year,* accordingly he was born about the year 1783. In 1807 he entered the College of Maynooth, where he completed his studies and was ordained priest in 1812. His first appointment was to the Curacy of Rathvilly where he remained one year. In the year following, he was appointed Administrator of Mountrath, which was then a mensal parish. In this position he remained for upwards of eight years, “ always displaying the same active zeal, the same assiduous application to the duties of his sacred calling, the same forgetfulness of self, and the same consideration for others, which marked his career to its close.” In 1822, he was inducted Parish Priest of Kilcock by the illustrious Dr. Doyle. For 16 years, he laboured in this mission. “ A scrupulous exactness in the discharge of his pastoral duties — a capacity for governing, which, without much effort on his part, produced the happiest results for his parishioners — an affectionate solicitude for the welfare of his flock — above all, an enthusiastic devotion to the cause of education — a devotion which never waned, and which died within him only when his heart ceased to beat — distinguished him as a model amongst Pastors, and produced for his people the happiest results.”

    On the 18th of February, 1824, Dr. Doyle thus writes to the P.P. of Kilcock : —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 136

53. Free school established at Maryborough for the Diocese of Leighlin

    Maryborough · townland · Laois · 1612

    Bishop Ram records that a free school was maintained in the town of Maryborough for the Diocese of Leighlin, with schoolmasters supported by himself and his clergy according to statute, and licensed only to teach approved books.

    Read the passage

    9. There is in each of my dioces a free school, the one in the towne of Mariborough for the Diocess of Leighlin. The schoolmasters are maintained by myself and my clergy accordinge the statute. Neither have I ever licenced any schoolmaster to teach but such as have first

    Dunmannoge.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 234

54. Hamilton serves the missions of Mountrath, Bagenalstown and Rathvilly

    Mountrath · town · Laois · 1836–1842

    Before returning to Carlow College as Professor of Natural Philosophy in 1842, Father Hamilton served on the mission in the parishes of Mountrath, Bagenalstown, and Rathvilly.

    Read the passage

    The Rev. James Hamilton was a native of the County Kerry, and was born about the year 1813. At an early age he entered Carlow College, and during a distinguished career he won the highest collegiate honours. His superior talents and virtue attracted the attention of the great Bishop, Dr. Doyle, who ambitioned to have him for his own, and, with the consent of Dr. Egan, Bishop of Kerry, he was affiliated to the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin. Whilst still in Deacon’s orders he acted as a Professor of Classics at the College. He was ordained priest, on the 20th of December, 1836, by Dr. Nolan who had been his professor, and who remarked on that occasion that of all the students who had graduated under him, the most gifted was James Hamilton. Having served on the mission in the parishes of Mountrath, Bagenalstown, and Rathvilly, Father Hamilton was recalled to the College, as Professor of Natural Philosophy, in August, 1842, in which position he remained during the succeeding nine years. His brother, Rev. Patrick Hamilton, was Lecturer in Natural Philosophy at Carlow College in 1833 and the two following years. He died young and whilst still a Deacon. In June, 1851, Father Hamilton resumed missionary duties in the parish of Tullow. In January, 1856, acceding to the request of the Catholic Young Men’s Society in Dublin, he delivered a course of four lectures in the Rotundo, on the “ Structure of the Heavens,” which attracted much attention.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 208

55. Michael Corcoran, Parish Priest of Kildare, elected Bishop

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1815

    Rev. Michael Corcoran, Parish Priest of Kildare and previously Rector of Ballina and Kildare parishes, was elected Bishop by Propaganda in March 1815, though already in infirm health at his appointment.

    Read the passage

    The Beverend Michael Corcoran, P.P. of Kildare, was elected Bishop by Propaganda, on March 6th, 1815, and approved by the Pope, March 12th, in the same year. Dr. Doyle thus writes of this Prelate: “Michael Corcoran, born in the Queen’s County, succeeded to the Sees of Kildare and Leighlin on the 12th of Maroh, 1815. This Prelate had been for several years Bector successively of the Parishes of Ballina and Kildare. When appointed, his health was infirm, and his years far advanced. He was educated at Paris, and possessed a mind strong and discriminating, and a heart filled with benevolence. He was exceedingly charitable and humane, his manners, at once dignified and conciliating, ever inspired those who approached him with love and respect. I was honoured with his friendship, and, notwithstanding the disparity of our age and station, I know not whether veneration for his virtues or personal attachment towards him prevailed more in my mind. His health declined from the period of his appointment ; so that he was unable to realize those wise views for the improvement of Ecclesiastical discipline, the education of youth, and the more regular fulfilment of every duty by the clergy and laity, which he had formed.

    92

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 90

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Kildare now. This is the town where the Reverend Michael Corcoran served as parish priest before he was elected bishop by Propaganda on March 6, 1815, and approved by the Pope six days later. He had been rector successively of the parishes of Ballina and Kildare, and was born in Queen's County, educated at Paris. Dr. Doyle wrote of him that he possessed a mind strong and discriminating, and a heart filled with benevolence, exceedingly charitable and humane, his manners at once dignified and conciliating. When appointed, his health was already infirm and his years far advanced. His health declined from the period of his appointment, so that he was unable to carry out the wise views he had formed for the improvement of ecclesiastical discipline, the education of youth, and the more regular fulfilment of duty by clergy and laity. Doyle said he was honoured with his friendship, and knew not whether veneration for his virtues or personal attachment towards him prevailed more in his mind.

56. Requiem Mass for Father Hamilton at Carlow Cathedral

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1874

    On Wednesday 21 January following his death, a solemn Month's Memory Office and Requiem Mass for the repose of Father Hamilton's soul took place in the Cathedral, Carlow, presided over by Right Rev. Dr. Walshe and attended by numerous clergy from Carlow and Dublin dioceses.

    Read the passage

    his precarious state of health, expressed their deepest sympathy, and immediately gave him leave for six months, allowing him to retain full pay, and if, at the expiration of that time, he should be invalided, securing to him an ample pension for life. He came to the home of his brother, Dr. W. Hamilton of Tarbeit, where all that a brother’s and sister’s loving-kindness could do to assuage the sufferings of an incurable malady was done. He expired on the 20th of December, the 36th anniversary of his Ordination, 1873, in the 60th year of his age. His remains were interred in the Parish Church at Tarbert. On Wednesday, the 21st of January following, a solemn Month’s Memory Office and Requiem Mass for the repose of his soul took place in the Cathedral, Carlow, at which his former fellow-professor and lifelong friend, the Right Rev. Dr. Walshe, presided, assisted by a numerous attendance of the clergy of his adopted Diocese, and also from that of Dublin. Amongst those present were the Very Rev. J. J. Taylor, D.D., Y.F., Very Rev. Archdeacon Dunne, V.F., Very Rev. P. Morrin, V.F., Very Rev. D. Kane, D.D., Very Rev. J. B. Kavanagh, D.D., Very Rev. Canon Pope (cousin to the deceased), etc., etc.

    As a writer, Father Hamilton commanded great felicity of expression and elegance of style ; he was an eloquent and effective lecturer and pulpit orator, and in classics, and more especially in the knowledge of the Natural Sciences, had few compeers. A good Religious with whom Father Hamilton maintained a correspondence, has kindly supplied notes which she fortunately made from his writings. From these notes some extracts are here given ; they will serve as illustrations of his style and spirit: —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 213

57. Rev. Richard Coffey serves as Chaplain to the Curragh Camp

    near Curragh Camp · population centre · Kildare · 1853–1873

    Rev. Richard Coffey, educated at Carlow College, served as Chaplain to the Curragh Camp before being promoted to the Parish of Rosenallis, where he later died.

    Read the passage

    Educated at Carlow College — appointed Dean of Lay College November, 1851 — Bursar, 1853 — left, July, 1873. Served as Chaplain to the Curragh Camp, from which he was promoted to the Parish of Rosenallis where he died.

    Rev. Andrew Phelan,

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 226

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Curragh Camp, this was the posting of Reverend Richard Coffey. He studied at Carlow College and became chaplain here, serving until 1873. From the camp he was promoted to the parish of Rosenallis, where he later died.

58. Braughall appointed Parish Priest of Graiguenamanagh

    Graiguenamanagh · townland · Kilkenny · 1818

    Father Braughall was appointed Parish Priest of Graiguenamanagh in June 1818, succeeding Father Lewis Moore.

    Read the passage

    Father Braughall returned to Ireland in 1807, and served for some ten years as curate at Raheen, in the Queen’s County, which at that time was included in the Parish of Clonenagh. Whilst there, he erected the chapel of Shanahoe, the site for which, and also a generous donation, he obtained from a Mr. Bourden then residing at Springmount, in that vicinity. He was appointed Parish Priest of Graig-namanagh in June, 1818, in succession to Father Lewis Moore.

    283

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 274

59. Carmelite house at Leighlin-Bridge

    Leighlinbridge · town · Carlow · 1800

    The only religious house in the Diocese of Leighlin was of the Carmelite Order at Leighlin-Bridge, consisting of two members.

    Read the passage

    “ Parishes in the Dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin, forty-three in number ; all, except Mountrath, composed, it is supposed, of from two to six or eight, and in some instances, more unions. There is only one religious house in the Diocese of Leighlin, and that of the Carmelite Order, in Leighlin-Bridge, consisting of two members. There is a Franciscan Friar resident in Carlow, but no convent. In the above number of Curates and Coadjutors in the Diocese of Leighlin, there are several regulars, but no Parish Priest of that order in Leighlin any more than Kildare.

    * * * * *

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 273

60. Conran Cousins as Parish Priests of Ballinakill and Ballin

    Ballinakill · town · Laois · 1822

    John Carroll's letter identifies his uncle's first cousins Daniel and James Conran as parish priests of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, with Daniel serving as Pastor of Ballinakill and James at Ballin, near Carlow.

    Read the passage

    The Bev. John Carroll, as a distinguished child of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, is also worthy of notice in these pages. In a letter dated Orphan Asylum, 35th Street, Chicago, October 30th, 1822, he says: — “I was born at Hophall in the parish of Maryborough, within half a mile of Dr. Burke’s birthplace. My uncle Dr. Burke had two first cousins, Daniel and James Conran, both of whom were parish priests of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, the former was Pastor of Ballinakill, and the latter, of Ballin, near Carlow. My uncle was the most humble, pious, and learned priest I ever knew. He was constantly engaged in writing.”

    The “Acadian Becorder,” published in the course of the last year an interesting series of articles entitled “ Halifax in the olden time,” containing items of information gleaned from its early numbers. Treating of the years 1827-8, we meet with the following references to Father Carroll : —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 266