Collections relating to the dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin (vol. 3)

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. Battle at Cill-Osnadh between Connaught and Ui-Ceinnsealaigh forces, 1167

   Kellistown · parish · Carlow · 1167

   In 1167 an army led by Ruaidhri Ua Conchobhair and Tighearnan Ua Ruairc marched into Ui-Ceinnsealaigh as far as Cill-Osnadh, where battles were fought resulting in the deaths of Connaught men and Ui-Ceannsealaigh forces including the son of the King of Britain.

   Read the passage

   a.d. 1167. Diarmaid MacMurchadha returned from England with a force of Galls, and he took the Kingdom of Ui-Ceinnsealaigh. Another army was led by Ruaidhri Ua Conchobhair and Tighearnan Ua Ruairc into Ui-Ceinnsealaigh, until they arrived at Cill-Osnadh. A battle was fought between some of the recruits and cavalry of Connaught, and the cavalry of Ui-Ceinn-

   *Reproduced by Miss Stokes, in Early Christian Architecture in Ireland , p. 75.

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come

2. Battle of Ath-Brestine at Ardristan

   Ardristan · townland · Carlow · 1–100

   Fergus Fairghe, King of Leinster, defeated the Ultonians at Ath-Brestine (Ardristan) at the commencement of the first century, an event later referenced in the ancient tale of the poet Aithirne's tour.

   Read the passage

   Fergus Fairghe, King of Leinster, defeated the Ultonians at Ath-Brestine {Ardristan) at the commencement of the first century. In the ancient Historical tale entitled Forbais Fdair, to which reference has been already made {Vol. 2, p. 98), it is related that about a.d. 33, Aithirne, the royal Ultonian poet, set out on a tour of visits among the other provincial kings and chiefs, bent on picking a quarrel with them and thus give his own prince, Conor MacNessa, an excuse for waging war upon them. From Munster Aithirne proceeded into Leinster, and came to Ard Brestine — Here the people of South Leinster with their King, Fergus Fairrgh6, met him in assembly with large and valuable presents, in order to induce him not to enter their territory. The poet refused to accept any of the rich gifts that were offered him, until he should be given the richest present or article in the assembly. This was a sore puzzle to them, because they could not well discover which was the best

   394

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 371

3. Bequest funds first Mercy Convent in Carlow

   Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1836–1837

   A bequest of £7,000 from trader Michael Nowlan to Bishop Nolan in 1836 led to the founding of the first Convent of Mercy in the diocese at Carlow the following year, with further funding from his brother John Nowlan.

   Read the passage

   A sum of £7,000, bequeathed to the Bishop, Dr. Nolan, in 1836, by Mr. Michael Nowlan, a trader in the town of Carlow, led to the Foundation of the first Convent of the Order in the Diocese, at Carlow, in the following year. A donation of £3,000 from Mr. John Nowlan, brother to their original benefactor, enabled the Sisters, shortly after, to set about the erection of their present fine Convent. The arrival of Mother Catherine McAuley, and the other Sisters, at Carlow, is amusingly related in Leaves from the Annals of a Sister of Mercy , Vol. I., p. 177 : — At length all preparations for the foundation were finished, and reverend Mother, accompanied by six Sisters, four of whom were to remain, set out for Carlow on the 10th of April, 1837. The morning was damp and gloomy, and the weather did not brighten much as the day wore on. The uneasy, jolting vehicle, known as Purcell’s Mail-Coach, which had been chartered for the party, sped at something better than a snail’s pace through the Counties of Dublin and Kildare to the fair inland town of Carlow. As the Sisters approached their new home, they found that the inclement weather had not prevented bishop, clergy, and laity from coming far outside the town to give them a hearty welcome. A goodly procession, or rather crowd, flanked the clumsy stage , as the tired horses toiled slowly up to the coach-office. After many hearty greetings, and a fervent Te Deum in the Cathedral, the travellers were escorted to the College, which stands in a noble, well-shaded park. The venerable President (Dr. Andrew Fitz- Gerald, O.P.) who stood at the gate in all his dignity to receive them, led them to the great hall. Never was “ the president and provincial ” in higher spirits. The doctor’s speech, usually characterized by a pleasant quaintness, on this occasion was uncommonly facetious. No doubt the dear, simple old man, ended by thinking that speeches to introduce nuns were as much in his line as the reception and profession sermons he considered his forte. Next in order came a grand collation in the President’s sanctum. These extraordinary doings half bewildered the weary travellers, to whom such honours were as distressing as they were unexpected. The bishop, however, simple and ascetic in his own tastes, came to their relief, by conveying to them a pressing invitation to accept the hospitality of the Presentation Convent. Mother McAuley, anxious to begin her work at once, declined to remain over-night with the Presentation Sisters, and proceeded thence, after a visit of some hours, to their new home. The Mother Superior of the new com-

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 393

4. Bishop Delany's difficult negotiation with landlord for Tullow chapel site

   Tullow · town · Carlow · 1792

   Bishop Delany, seeking to rebuild the ruinous chapel at Tullow around 1792, wrote to Dr. Troy describing a difficult visit to the landlord Mr. Doyne, who threatened to extract an extraordinary rent for a 100-year lease, prompting the bishop's bitter remark about Protestant treatment.

   Read the passage

   he would manufacture it, he would make the very most of it, as one would of a kish of onions or plants; that it is not in reference to situation or extent of ground, but with a view to our wants and the convenience it afforded that he would estimate the price of it, which he would have valued by a notary public, in this very point of consideration, to the last farthing, and so let us bid accordingly. Several and several, he repeatedly assured me, from these parts having assured him he could get if he insisted, — and that he ought, were he not a fool, to insist on getting, — I know not what, for it, as he could not, till he had it rated with relation to our exigencies (he said) by a notary in Dublin. Here are our Protestant brethren for you! O thank God, I was never yet deceived in my notions of them !”*

   In the Church of Tullow are interred Bishops Delany and Corcoran, the inscriptions on whose monuments have already been given (Vol. pp. 91, 92.J In addition to these, tablets have been erected to the memory of priests which bear the following epitaphs : —

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 368

5. Burial of Bishop Keeffe at The Graves, Carlow

   Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1787–1821

   Bishop Keeffe was interred at The Graves burial ground among the poor for whom he had lived. Dr Doyle recorded visiting his 'naked grave', enclosing it with a railing and raising a stone inscribed with his name.

   Read the passage

   “ Here, he desired,” writes Dr. Doyle, “ that his remains should be laid amidst the poor for whom he had lived and with whom, after death, he desired to be associated. . . I have often visited his naked grave and heaved a sigh to heaven over so much worth. I have enclosed with a railing the sod which covered him, and raised a stone and inscribed his name on it over the spot where he lies entombed. I desire that my remains be gathered to his, in the hope of accompanying him at the general resurrection to the presence of our Lord.”

   The following is a copy of the inscription placed by Dr. Doyle over the grave of Dr. Keeffe : —

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 44

6. Capture of a priest near Old Leighlin, 1653

   Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow · 1653

   On 27 November 1653, Captain Thomas Shepherd's company took a priest with his appurtenances in the house of Owen Birne of Cool-ne-Kishen near Old Leighlin, County Carlow; both priest and Birne were sent as prisoners to Dublin.

   Read the passage

   On the 4th of January, 1655, there was paid to Captain Thomas Shepherd the sum of five pounds, pursuant to the declaration of the 6th of May, 1653, for a party of his company that, on the 27th of November last, took a priest, with his appurtenances, in the house of one Owen Birne, of Cool-ne- Kishen, near Old Leighlin, in the County of Catherlogh, which said priest, together with Birne, the man of the house, were brought prisoners to Dublin.” ( Gromw . Settlement, p. 322.)

   On 1st April, 1619, licence was granted to Nicholas Caffrie and Joan his wife, of Leighlin Bridge, to keep taverns and sell wine and ardent spirits, during their joint lives, at Leighlin Bridge and two miles around. (Pat. Boll.)

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 22

7. Confederate capture of Carlow Castle, 1647

   Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1647

   The Castle was besieged by Confederate forces under General Preston for nearly a month before surrendering on 2nd May 1647. News of the victory prompted a solemn Te Deum in Kilkenny, celebrating the securing of the town, long called 'a nest of heresy', for the Confederate cause.

   Read the passage

   1647. The Castle was invested by the Confederates under General Preston, on the night of the 10th of April ; after sustaining a siege of nearly a month, it surrendered on the 2nd of May. As sood as the news of this success reached Kilkenny, on the 3rd of May, the feast of the Finding of the Holy Cross, a solemn Te Deum in thanksgiving was sung in St. Mary’s Church in presence of the Supreme Council and civic authorities, and great was the rejoicing that the town which “for a hundred and ten years had been a nest of heresy,” ( Rinuccini MSS.) and which was the only place of any importance in Leinster outside of Dublin now siding with the enemy, was at length secured for the Confederate cause. (Paper by Bp. of Ossory , Transactions O.A.S. Vol. III. pt. 4, p. 347.)

   In the list of the newly elected General Assembly of the Confederate Catholics assembled at Kilkenny, 10th January, 1647, the name of “ Robert Harpole of Shrule” is given.

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 40

8. Corrupt borough governance exposed by 1832 Commissioner report

   Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1832

   The Commissioner on Municipal Corporations reported that prior to 29th September 1832 Baltinglass borough had only two Burgesses and no Freemen; ten new non-resident Burgesses were then sworn, with Lord Aldborough holding all power as patron of the Borough.

   Read the passage

   The town of Baltinglass was incorporated by Charter of 13th of Charles II. The Corporation is styled, “ The Sovereign, Burgesses, and Free Commons of the Borough of Baltinglass,” and its officers were, a Sovereign, 12 Burgesses, a Recorder, and Town Clerk, a Sergeant-at-Mace, and a Clerk of the Market. The Sovereign was elected annually by and from the Burgesses, and the Burgesses were elected for life from among the body of the Freemen. Such was the constitution enjoined by the Charter, but, says the Commissioner on Municipal Corporations, “ prior to 29th of Sept., 1832, there were but two Burgesses and no Freemen. On that day, 10 of the existing Burgesses were nominated and sworn, the majority of whom are non-resident, but live many miles distant from the town. Burgesses have no functions to perform. Lord Aldborough is the patron of the Borough ; there is no select body, all power being vested in him.” The Aldborough family received the £15,000 compensation money granted for the loss of the elective franchise, in 1800. In 1763, the Stratfords received the title of Barons of Baltinglass, they subsequently had the title of Earl of Aldborough conferred upon them.

   In the burial-ground at Baltinglass, a large cross has been erected to commemorate three priests who are interred there. The following are the inscriptions : —

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 140

   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is Baltinglass, a town incorporated by charter under Charles the Second. Its charter called for a Sovereign, twelve Burgesses, a Recorder, Town Clerk, Sergeant-at-Mace, and Clerk of the Market, with the Sovereign chosen yearly from the Burgesses and Burgesses serving for life. But the Commissioner on Municipal Corporations found that before the 29th of September 1832 there were only two Burgesses left and no Freemen at all. On that day ten new Burgesses were sworn in, most of them living many miles from the town, and they had, in his words, "no functions to perform." Lord Aldborough held all power as patron of the Borough. The Stratford family had been Barons of Baltinglass since 1763 and later became Earls of Aldborough, and they received 15,000 pounds in compensation for the loss of the elective franchise in 1800.

9. Death of Sir Peter Carew at New Ross

   New Ross · townland · Wexford · 1575

   Sir Peter Carew took up temporary abode at New Ross while preparing to move into Munster, and died there of a sudden illness on 27 November 1575.

   Read the passage

   abode at New Ross, and was there arranging to transport his household and effects into Munster, when he was seized with his last illness and died there, on the 27th of Nov., 1575. The foregoing details are taken chiefly from an interesting paper on the Barony of Idrone, in the Kilk. Arch. Journal, by John P. Prendergast, Esq.

   Sir Peter Carew, junr., was unable to defend his inheritance. In 1577, the Castle of Leighlin was taken by Rory Oge O’More, and a great part of the town destroyed by fire. In 1 580, again, we learn from Dowling’s Annals, there was a great slaughter at Leighlin committed by the Ketings, and at Glenmalure, in the County of Wicklow, by the O’Byrnes, when Sir Peter Carew, the younger, Baron of Idrone, and Francis Cosby, Captain of the loyal Kerns of Leix, and Master Moore and Bernard Fitzwilliam, Captains, were killed, with many other gentlemen of estimation, by Fiagh MacHugh, and other rebels, who afterwards, at the instigation of young Maurice Cavanagh of Garry hill, burned 10 townlands in Idrone, and carried off as prisoners Master Wood (he was probably one of the Protestant Chapter of Leighlin) and Roger Hooker, Dean of Leighlin. The possessions of the Carews afterwards passed, by purchase, to the Bagnal family.

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come

10. Discovery of a pagan Irish tomb at Luggacurren

    Luggacurren · townland · Laois · 1881

    In March 1881 a Cist-vaen, or pagan Irish tomb, was discovered on the farm of Mr. Kilbride of Luggacurren, containing human bones in good preservation, two richly ornamented earthenware urns, and bronze rings.

    Read the passage

    “ On the other side of the valley,” writes Daniel O’Byrne — Hist, of Queen's County — “southwards, is the Dun of Luggacurren, on the north side of which is a cave 6 feet high, by 4 in width. The cave ... is about 80 feet above the level of the plain, and about 200 feet below the summit of the Dun.” In March, 1881, a Cist-vaen, or pagan Irish tomb, was discovered

    I

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11. Founding of Franciscan monastery and O'More burial place at Abbeyleix, 1447

    Abbeyleix · town · Laois · 1447–1502

    In 1447 the Monastery of Laoghis was founded in honour of St Francis by O'More, who selected a burial place for himself and his descendants there. Two box tombs survive near the old Abbey site in the demesne of Lord De Vesci, one bearing the effigy of Malachy O'More (d.1486) and the other of John O'More (d.1502).

    Read the passage

    “a.d. 1447. The Monastery of Laoghis was founded in honour of St. Francis by O’More, who selected a burial-place for himself and his descendants in it.” (Four Masters.) As the Abbey was founded long previously, this passage must refer either to an endowment bestowed by O’More, or the building by him of some considerable addition to it. No portion of the building now remains, but its site is pointed out in the demesne of Lord De Yesci, near the present gardens, and adjoining the site of Old Abbeyleix. Within the present century the then Lord De Vesci caused the old town to be entirely razed, and laid out the present town on a more eligible site — (Lewis’s Topog. Diet.) Close to the locality of the former Abbey was the burial-place of the O’Mores above referred to. Two box tombs still remain. On one is a full-size recumbent effigy in armour, with an inscription around the margin in Gothic lettering: —

    “ PalacljiHS Dash prinaps ghrpmscat in pate, girneit.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 53

12. Founding of the Brothers of St Patrick at Tullow, 1808

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1808

    Bishop Daniel Delany founded the Institute of the Brothers of St Patrick at Tullow, County Carlow, on the Feast of the Purification in 1808, for the religious and literary education of youth amid the aftermath of the Penal Laws.

    Read the passage

    The Institute of the Brothers of St. Patrick was founded by the Right Rev. Dr. Daniel Delany, at Tullow, in the County of Carlow, on the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in the year 1808, for the religious and literary education of youth and the instruction of the faithful in Christian piety.

    Catholics were at this time just emerging from the dark times of the Penal Laws, and not only were the young destitute of the means of instruction, but adults were in a deplorable state of ignorance. The holy and zealous Bishop seeing this condition of things among his flock, set about the good work of founding the religious Institutes of the Brothers of St. Patrick and the Sisters of St. Brigid in his diocese. In 1808 the first house of the Brothers was established in Tullow. In 1810 a filiation of the Brothers was sent to Mountrath.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 388

13. Fr. John Taaffe evades capture in Carlow, 1743

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1743

    Philip Bernard reported to the Lord Lieutenant's Council that John Taaffe, parish priest of Carlow, had a house in the town and exercised ecclesiastical jurisdiction, but escaped the town and country before he could be apprehended.

    Read the passage

    “ Sir — I received yrs of the 3rdinst, and, in obedience to his Grace the Lord Lieutenant and Councill’s commands, have made it my whole business ever since to search and enquire whether there were any archBishops, vicars Generali, Deans, Jesuits, monks, Friers or any other Regular Popish Clergy or any other Papists exercising any Ecclesiastical jurisdiction in or about this town, and heard there was one John Taaf who had a house in this towne and parish priest of the same and constantly exercised Ecclesiasticall jurisdiction here, and uponritof yours went in search of him in order to apprehend and committ him, but he had made his escape out of this towne and country, but where I can’t find and I know of no other person exercising Ecclesiasticall jurisdiction here, but if any such should dare to come within my jurisdiction, I will immediately apprehend them and give an account to my Lord Lieutenant and Councill of the same, and am, Sir,

    “ Your most obt. humble servt,

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 50

14. Gold clasp found near Sliguff ruins in 1806

    Sliguff · townland · Carlow · 1806

    In 1806 a fine gold ancient clasp for a cloak was found near the Sliguff ruins by Mr. Mathew Murphy, weighing four ounces and beautifully carved; he sold it to the Royal Dublin Society for £20.

    Read the passage

    This name is derived from Slighe-dhubh, i.e. “the Black Road,’’ and would be more correctly anglicised Sliduff. — {Joyce) There is but a mere scrap of the walls of the old parochial Church now remaining, and no inscription in the graveyard adjoining worth noting. The site is beautifully elevated over the Barrow. Ryan, in Hist. Co. Carlow, describes the ruins as he found them, in 1832 : “ Two side walls of the old Church are standing. The structure was originally seventy-eight feet in length and twenty-one in breadth ; but now only fifty-one feet of the side walls remain. In 1806,” he adds, “a fine gold ancient clasp for a cloak was found near Sliguff ruins, by Mr.

    PARISH OF BAGNALSTOWN.

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15. Inquisition on Castle of Ballirone and slaying of Hedrington

    Ballyroan · town · Laois · 1570

    An Inquisition taken at Maryborough in August 1570 found that Gingkene Hedrington, late of Ballyrone, died seized of the Castle of Ballirone and lands amounting to 484 acres, held from the Queen's castle and manor of Maryborough. Hedrington was slain by rebels of the Moores on 12th July of that year.

    Read the passage

    An Inquisition taken at Maryborough, 14th Aug., 1570, finds that Gingkene Hedrington, late of Ballyrone, died seized of the Castle of Ballirone and certain towns and lands in that locality, amounting to 484 acres, etc. “ He held all the aforesaid castle, houses, etc., of the ladie Quene, as of her castle and manor of Maryboroughe, by the service of the twentieth parte of a knight’s fee, and which was evicted and taken from the rebels the Moores, late called Leix, and were parcel of her crowne and inheritance as by authoritie and effecte of an Acte of Parliament holden at Dublin, within this realme of Ireland, the third and fourthe year of King Philip and Quene Marye, more at lardge appearethe. The saide Gingken and his heirs male are bounde to paye yearely unto the hands of the subtreasoror or Generali Deceiver of Ireland, for and to the use of the said ladie Quene, her heirs and successors, for all the saide premises the some of £11 7s. 2d., Irish, and also he, and his heirs male for ever, shall give on custom plowe day, yearly, to the use of the Castell of Maryborough, for every plowe that is then plowing on the ground e. He and his heirs male are bounde to have, keep and manteyne, contynally upon the said castle, lands, and all the aforesaid premises, thre horsemen of English native, both of name and blode, for the better inhabitinge and preservinge the premisses ; and they shall have good and efficient horses and harness, and, uppon lawful warninge, geve attendannee with moste parte of their houshould and familye, in there defensable array, with the dayes victualls, to attend for the defence of the saide countrye. The saide Gingkene Hedrington was slayne by certayne rebells of the Moores, and died the 12th of Julye in the year aforesaid. David Hedrington is the sonn and heire of the said Gyngkin, and is of the adge of 22 yeares and above.”

    A.D. 1580. John, the son of the Earl of Desmond . . .

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 253

16. Inscribed doorway of Killeshin church

    Killeshin · townland · Laois

    The western doorway of Killeshin church bears ancient inscriptions along the abaci, invoking prayers for Art, King of Leinster, an Archinnech, and figures associated with Hy-Duach, evidencing its early medieval royal and ecclesiastical connections.

    Read the passage

    These may be read — “ Pray for Art . . . King of Leinster, and for . . . Archinnech . . Pray for . . . lena Ua Mel (lach, Prince of Hy) Duach. Pray for Celiac.”

    The territory of Hy-Duach comes within a mile of this church.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 233

17. Last Davells descendants died in poverty at Lambstown

    Lambstown · townland · Laois · 1700–1730

    Two or three ladies, the last descendants of Davells, died in a hut at Lambstown, near Killeshin, early in the last century, in great poverty.

    Read the passage

    * The Skeltons were amongst the Irish settlers who got grants of the lands cleared by the betrayal and butchery of the Irish chieftains at Mullaghmast on New Year's Day, 1577. Most of the Mullaghmast settlers in this locality were Catholics. Hartpole, Hovenden, Skelton, and Davells forfeited as “ English Papists ” in 1653. Henry Davells, the Elizabethan grantee of Killeshin and Capoly, now Sheffield, near Maryborough, was stabbed in his bed at Tralee by Sir John of Desmond. Two or three ladies, the last descendants of Davells, died in a hut at Lambstown, near Killeshin, early in the last century, in great poverty. The name of Skelton, alias Lynt, appears in several Inquisitions of the Queen’s County of the reigns of James I. and Charles I.

    264

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 248

18. Lord Aldborough's letter over Cure Connor's suspension

    Belan · townland · Kildare · 1788

    In 1788 Lord Aldborough wrote from Belan requesting a trial for the suspended Parish Priest of Baltinglass, Mr. Connor, who had been degraded by Bishop O'Keeffe without proper proceedings. He asked that the priest be given a chance to vindicate himself.

    Read the passage

    ‘ Rev. Sir, — I some time since troubled you with my sentiments respecting Mr. Connor, the late Parish Priest of Baltinglass, and that I thought his requisition of a trial was but fair and reasonable, to which I have received no answer. I have since received a long letter from him relying on finding substantialer justice from you than he did from Doctor O’Keeffe, who degraded him sine foro e.t strepitu : and this I can’t think warranted by Canon or Council of Trent law ; besides he can prove his being offered another living and a salary from Mr. Archbold, and other matters I wish may not be made public for the sake of religion and justice; as I would not have it thought either Doctor O’Keeffe, for whose memory I have an esteem, or you, sir, for whose character and candour I have much respect, would upon any account step aside from either. I therefore do request his suspension, which implies but a temporary punishment, may be tried, to see whether or no the time he has been deprived of his parish be not fully adequate to any charge that can be brought against him ; that if so, lie may be restored, and if not, either longer suspended or totally deprived of his function. This is the usage of our Church, where severe penalties be against any who take away a person’s bread and character without the fullest proof, and this being my real opinion, and the rather as I was in some measure the cause of his censure, but which I never intended to have either lasting or inflicted on him without full proof, I do request he may have a trial, that he may vindicate himself or fall, and I will myself attend the trial and issue.

    ‘ I am, rev. sir,

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 150

19. Molyneux's 1709 account of the fallen round tower at Killeshin

    Killeshin · townland · Laois · 1709

    In his 1709 journey account, Molyneux described the old church of Killeshin and the recently fallen round steeple, noting it had come down in one solid piece and that inscriptions could be seen on either side of the door.

    Read the passage

    About twenty yards to the south-west of the entrance stood the belfry, a round tower, said to have been of great height and beauty, the doorway of which faced that of the church. This wall was pulled down at the commencement of the last century. In a fly-leaf of a copy of the Irish Statutes, printed in the year 1700, now in the possession of Mr. Clayton Browne, of Browne’s Hill, near Carlow, the following manuscript entry respecting the destruction of this tower occurs : — “ Munday ye 8th Day of March 170§, that day the steeple of Killeshan undermined and flung down by one Bambrick, implo}7ed by Captain Wolseley in Three Days Worke.” “ 170f, 8th March at 3 of the clock in ye afternoon ye steeple fell to ye ground, being measured it was 105 feet high or in length.” Molyneux {Journey to Kilkenny in 1709) thus alludes to this tower : — “Near the foot of the mountain on this road stands the old Church of Killeshin, which is a very old building. Here lately stood, over against the Doore of the Church, one of the old round steeples which I am told was very high, old, and well built, so that when the owner of this place had it fallen, it came to the ground in one solid piece, and was not, even by the fall against the ground so broke, but that several vast pieces yet remain sticking together, so that you easily discover what this building was. It certainly appears to be of the same building and age with the adjacent church, and this was certainly an Irish building appears by two Inscriptions on each side of the door as you enter, which I transcribed.” It is to be regretted that Molyneux omitted to give these inscriptions which in his time were much more perfect than at present. An anonymous writer, who made MS. notes to a copy of Ware’s Antiquities upwards of a century ago, mentions “ One Colonel Wolesley” as the barbarian who had this tower pulled down ; “ for which act,” he adds, “ the bishop of Leighlin was very much displeased with him.”

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 234

20. MP for Old Leighlin expelled as rebel, 1642

    Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow · 1642

    By order of the Commons dated 22nd June 1642, Thomas Davills, MP for Old Leighlin, was expelled from the House as a 'rotten member' for standing indicted of high treason or open rebellion.

    Read the passage

    By an order of the Commons, dated 22nd June, 1642, “ certain members, being in open rebellion or standing indicted of high treason, were adjudged to be rotten members, and no longer worthy of this honourable House ; it is therefore ordered that they be expelled this House, and be no longer reputed to be any member of the same.” The name of Thomas Davills, M.P. for Old Leighlin, appears amongst those expelled on this occasion.

    In the Parliament which sat at Chichester House, Dublin, on the 8th of May, 1661, Old Leighlin had for representatives, Sir Francis Butler, Knt., and Charles Meredith, Esq.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 10

21. Nuncio's flight halts at Ballinakill in 1648

    Ballinakill · town · Laois · 1648

    Fleeing Kilkenny in May 1648 after refusing to ratify the Peace with Ormonde, the Papal Nuncio halted for a short time at Ballinakill, from which he wrote to General Preston urging him to uphold the Catholic cause, before continuing to Maryborough.

    Read the passage

    surrendering the town, Sir Phelim, the Colonel of the Horse, called on the garrison to surrender. They replied that they would not, until theysawthe General and the cannon. The troops now arriving, a drummer was despatched to demand, formally, the surrender of the place. The Governor demanded hostages from the General, and accordingly Bryan O’Neill, MacHenry, and MacTurlough of the Fews, were sent. Sir William Gilbert then came to the army and, on seeing the force and the cannon, he agreed to capitulate, receiving permission for the garrison to carry away all their moveables. Port-Laoighse, was given in charge to Phelim O’Neill, MacDonnell, and MacHenry. In 1648, the Supreme Council of the Confederate Catholics agreed to the proposed Truce with Inchiquin, and soon after publicly ratified the Peace with Ormonde. All this was done despite the most emphatic remonstrances of the Nuncio. The Nuncio had reason to fear even for his personal safety, for which reason, he with the Bishop of Clogher privately took his departure from Kilkenny on the 8th of May, 1648, passing over the city wall which adjoined his residence, and pursuing his journey, accompanied only by two attendants, in a litter which awaited him outside one of the least frequented gates of the city. ( Rinuccini MSS.) He halted for a short time at Ballinakill, from which place he addressed a letter to General Preston exhorting him to uphold the Catholic cause, and thence he proceeded to Maryborough, were Owen Roe O’Neill was then encamped with a small body of troops hastily collected. This fortunate escape, which reminds one of Paul’s, from Damascus, was made precisely seven days after the Nuncio’s rejection of the Truce, and, on the 27th of May, he pronounced sentence of excommunication and interdict

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 255

22. O'More forced to acknowledge Mortimer's overlordship at Athy

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1346

    In 1346 Lord Walter Bermingham and the Earl of Kildare destroyed O'More's country with fire and sword and compelled O'More at Athy to acknowledge he held his manor of Bellet and other Leix lands of Roger Mortimer.

    Read the passage

    Lord Mortimer having married the only daughter of Lord Brecknock, acquired possession of the estates of that nobleman, and had for his principal residence the Castle of Dunamase. He, before passing into England, entrusted Lysagh O’More with the care of his estates. O’More took advantage of the opportunity to resume possession of his patrimonial inheritance, and accordingly, in one night, seized upon eight castles in Leix, of which Dunamase was one, thus becoming, as Clyn words it, from a servant a lord, and from a subject a prince. This Lysagh O’More was killed in 1342 by his own servant. The event is thus recorded by Friar Clyn : “ A.D. 1342. Parum ante Hatale Domini, obiit Leysart O’Morthe a proprio servo in ebrietate occisus, vir potens, dives et locuples, et in gente sua honoratus. Hie fere omnes Anglos de terris suis et hereditate violenter ejecit, nam uno sero VIII. castra Angliorum combussit, et castrum nobile de Dunmaske domini Rogeri de Mortuo-Mari destruxit, et dominium sibi patriae usurpavit ; de servo dominus, de subjecto princeps effectus.” About two years subsequently, the O’Mores were again dispossessed, but in 1346 again took up arms for the recovery of their rights. Lord Walter Bermingham and the Earl of Kildare, collecting their forces, destroyed his country with fire and sword, and compelled O’More, at Athy, to acknowledge that he held his manor of Bellet, and his other lands in Leix, of Roger Mortimer, as of his manor of Dunamase. “ On receiving possession of Dunamase, Lord Mortimer added greatly to its strength, who also, agreeable to the English policy of the day, established a tenantry of soldiers around him for his protection. He built the castles of Shaen, Moret, Ballymanus, with five others, which were always garrisoned to be ready to repel an insurrection, and were circumjacent to, and dependent on Dunamase, it being the residence of the lord, who made this the seat of civil as well as military jurisdiction, discharging official duties in person, and occasionally was represented by a seneschal ; thus it became a complete manor. The castle being always guarded by a numerous garrison, had all the internal appearance of power and pomp, and nothing was wanting in outward show to complete its pre-eminence. Such was its consequence and situation after being recovered from the O’Mores, and so it remained for many years, the powerful

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 271

    As the companion tells it

    You're passing through Athy now, a town in Kildare, and it was here in 1346 that a submission took place. The story begins with Lord Mortimer, who had married the only daughter of Lord Brecknock and acquired possession of that nobleman's estates. His principal residence was the Castle of Dunamase. Before passing into England, he entrusted Lysagh O'More with the care of his estates. O'More seized the opportunity to take back his patrimonial inheritance. In a single night he seized eight castles in Leix, Dunamase among them. Friar Clyn recorded that O'More, as he put it, went from a servant to a lord, and from a subject to a prince. This same Lysagh O'More was killed in 1342 by his own servant. Clyn wrote that he was a powerful man, rich and wealthy, and honoured among his people, and that he had violently expelled nearly all the English from their lands and inheritance, burning eight English castles in one evening and destroying the noble castle of Dunamase of Lord Roger Mortimer, usurping dominion over his homeland. About two years later the O'Mores were dispossessed again, but in 1346 they once more took up arms for the recovery of their rights. Lord Walter Bermingham and the Earl of Kildare gathered their forces and destroyed O'More's country with fire and sword. They compelled O'More, here at Athy, to acknowledge that he held his manor of Bellet and his other lands in Leix of Roger Mortimer, as of his manor of Dunamase. After recovering Dunamase, Mortimer strengthened it greatly and established a tenantry of soldiers around him for protection. He built the castles of Shaen, Moret, Ballymanus, and five others, all garrisoned and dependent on Dunamase.

23. Orangemen's Attack Fatally Weakens Father Duane

    Mountrath · town · Laois · 1808

    Father Duane served as Administrator of Mountrath parish and died in 1808 from illness brought on by an attack made upon his house by Orangemen.

    Read the passage

    Father Duane, who died in 1808, by illness brought on in consequence of the attack made upon his house by the Orangemen.— Vide Supra.

    The next Administrator was Father Malone, afterwards P.P.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 287

24. Patrick Money ordered to restore hogs taken from Stradbally friars

    Stradbally · town · Laois · 1649

    Edmond Butler issued an order dated 24th April 1649 directing Patrick Money to restore hogs taken from the friars of Stradbally by Tiege Gaffney, though the friars never recovered their goods.

    Read the passage

    and commands a party of tlie said two companies, and the horse, to Stradbally, where none did inhabit except two poor friars, Father Paul Geoghegan and Father James Geoghegan, living most beggarly in that despoiled town, and two poor country tenants that belonged and depended on them, and who lived within the monastery mure or bawn ; the friars never suspecting to receive any violence from such people, all natives, bred and born Catholics, nor once dreaming that they would use the least inconvenience or mischief to any of that function or condition. But far deceived ; for all that belonged to both friar and other, was snatched away by this party ; neither regarded friar or other in their pursuit, embezzled the most part by scattering them into several parts, and though these poor men did pay any country charges accruing on their tenantship (notwithstanding its immunity by both civil and canon law), after General Neill’s departure from those parts, they must ransom some of their said goods that did not appear, by four months’ contributions unto this crew, but what belonged unto the friars was never restored ; they thought it a lawful prey, as siding and obeying my Lord Nuncio’s censures. The Commander-in-chief of this party was one Patrick Money, appointed Lieutenant of foot and Governor of the said demolished Cullenagh. The friars exhibiting complaint unto Edmond Roe Butler against this Money, as chief commander, and the very man in whose possessions were such goods as were carried from the friars, and especially some hogs, who granted his orders for the restoring of them, which is : ‘ Patrick Money — Understanding that Tiege Gaffney has taken some hogs belonging to the friars of Stradbally, which upon sight hereof must be restored. This 24th of April, 1649. Edmond Butler.’ The friars were nothing the better of this, though severally complained unto the said Edmond of the non-compliance of this party to their high prejudice. Neither yet those unchristian and inhuman Tories satisfied, but next morning, after the said thievish robbery, came like enemies unto the said Stradbally to garrison the monastery, which they did in disrespect of religion, packed the friars into one and the poorest cottage in all their proper monastery, consumed all they had for their proper relief and sustenance, made the Abbey a stew-house ; the said Butler hereof certified, did never redress the same, rather augmented their grief with fresh supplies of untoward people, belonging to Edward Loftus, brother-in-law to Francis Cosby, antagonist of the said friars ; this was the service of this Edmond Butler, and thus these poor friars, for the space of seven or eight weeks, until their own robbery and misdemeanor did cause them voluntarily to desert the place, and turn to their ancient trade of thievery.” — Aphor. Disc. Pt. 3, p. 31.)

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 343

25. Rathmore castle and Colman, King of Hy-Kinselagh

    Rathmore · townland · Carlow · 555–1598

    Rathmore was the chief residence of Colman, King of Hy-Kinselagh, in the 6th century, brother of St. Abban; after a prosperous reign he retired in 555 to the monastery of St. Comgall at Bangor. An important castle stood at Rathmore, listed among the eight chief castles of County Carlow in 1598.

    Read the passage

    The Vicarage of Rathmore had St. Patrick for its Patron. By a Pat. Roll, Dec. 23rd, 1559, we find Edmond Curren presented to the Vicarage of St. Patrick of Rathmore, in the diocese of Leighlin, vacant by the death of William Cnrren. ( Morrin ). It was part of the possessions of St. Thomas’s Abbey, Dublin. On 1st of May, 1603, a grant was made to John Eustace, Gent., of the rectories, churches, and chapels of Straboe, Rathmore, and Mohacon or Moyacon ( Glonegal ), the estates of St. Thomas Court, near Dublin ; rent, £21 16s. 8d. Irish. The church which stood at Rathmore, has completely disappeared, and also a burial-ground which adjoined it ; from the fact of human bones having been frequently met with in the place, its site is supposed to have been between the Rath, from which the place is named, and of which a portion still remains, — and Mr. Verscoyle’s lodge gate. An important castle appears to have stood here in the 16th century; amongst the eight chief castles in the County of Carlow, as given in Description of Ireland, Anno 1598, that of Rathmore is named. Rathmore was the chief residence of Colman, King of Hy-Kinselagh, in the 6th century ; this Colman had also a residence at Liscolman from whom it is named, (“ the fort of Colman.”) This Colman, who was great-grandson of King Crimthann, was brother of St. Abban, and had for his mother Mella, sister of St. Kevin of Glendalough. After a long and prosperous reign he retired, in A.D. 555. to the monastery of St. Comgall at Bangor. In the life of St. Fintan of Clonenagh it is related that, having heard that Colman had Cormac, regulus of Hy-Bairche, in captivity, whom he thought of putting to death, the Saint, taking with him twelve of his disciples, proceeded to Rathmore to try to effect his release. Colman, hearing of their approach and suspecting the object of their visit, gave orders to exclude them and also to guard well the royal prisoner ; but lo ! the gates of the castle and the door of the prison flew open before the Saint, and the fetters fell from the captive’s limbs. The King, on hearing this, consulted his councillors, and acting on their advice, he set the captive free, and at the same time, all his other prisoners. In the Life of the Saint this place is referred to as, “ oppidum in planitie Lageniensium positum,nomineRathmor,quod Latine dicitur Atrium magnum.” (fiolgan.)

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 329

26. Ruined Abbey Church described by Grose in 1792

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1792

    Portions of Baltinglass Abbey Church remain, built after the plan of Tintern and Dunbrody Abbeys but less extensive; Grose's Antiquities of 1792 describes a long ruined chapel, belfry, lofty plain east window, and notes the nearby inhabited Baltinglass Castle.

    Read the passage

    Portions of the Abbey Church still remain. The Abbey appears to have been built after the same plan as the Abbeys of Tintern and Dunbrody, in the County of Wexford, but to have been less extensive. The chancel was converted into a church for the use of the Protestants ; part of an east window, which was composed of six lights, exists, and six pointed arches of the aisle, remain. In Grose’s Antiquities, an engraving of this Abbey is given — Plate 116, Yol. 2 — and the accompanying text, written in 1792, states: — “There are a long, ruined chapel, a belfry, and a lofty plain east window. Not far is Baltinglass Castle, in good repair, and inhabited.” The castle here referred to, was originally the residence of the Abbot, and afterwards the seat of the Yiscounts Baltinglass. It is an irregular, and not very extensive, edifice, and bears marks of having been built at different periods. The outward doors are in the Saxon or round-arched style ; the other parts in less ancient style*

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 138

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Baltinglass in Wicklow, portions of the old abbey church are still standing. It was built on the same plan as Tintern and Dunbrody Abbeys in County Wexford, though smaller. The chancel had been converted for Protestant worship, and part of an east window with six lights survived, along with six pointed arches of the aisle. Grose's Antiquities, written in 1792, noted "a long, ruined chapel, a belfry, and a lofty plain east window." Not far off stood Baltinglass Castle, described then as in good repair and inhabited. That castle had been the abbot's residence originally, and later the seat of the Viscounts Baltinglass. It was an irregular, not very extensive building, put up at different periods, with outward doors in the Saxon round-arched style and the rest in a less ancient manner.

27. Shean Castle taken by Parliamentary forces under Hewson

    Shean · townland · Cork · 1646–1650

    Shean castle shared the fortunes of Dunamase, surrendering to Owen Roe O'Neill in 1646, and was later taken in 1650 by parliamentary forces under General Hewson, who demolished the outworks but left the castle standing.

    Read the passage

    Queen’s County, in Description of Ireland, Anno 1598 ; and in the Carew Cal. of the same period, Whytney of Shyan is named as the owner and occupant. Daniel Byrne, the clothier, who made his fortune by clothing Cromwell’s army, purchased the estate known as the Lordship of Shean, from young squire Whitney, who was much indebted to him, leaving him the castle as a residence. Soon after, Whitney invited Byrne to dine with him there, and contrived that Byrne got neither knife nor fork ; being entreated by Whitney to help himself, he said he had plenty of meat but nothing to cut it with. Whereupon Whitney answered : “ Why don’t you draw out your scissors and clip it, sir ? ” For this affront, Byrne ordered him to quit the castle next morning. (Note to Four Masters, A.D. 1578.) Shean castle shared the fortunes of Dunamase; it was amongst those that surrendered to Owen Roe O’Neill, in 1646; in 1650, it was taken by the parliamentary forces under General Hewson, who demolished the outworks but left the castle standing. Though not of great extent, it still was of considerable importance, being strongly built, and from its elevated position, easy of defence. “It continued for centuries,” writes Camden, {Britanica,) “in its pristine state, till it came into the hands of the present proprietor, Dr. Charles Coote, Dean of Kilfenora, who has revived it with new splendour, and added at vast expense such embellishments to its fine situation as make it an ornament to the country and a delightful residence.” A fine engraving of this castle is given in Grose’s Antiquities. Plate 84, Yol. 2.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 264

28. Site of Clonenagh monastery and its ruined church

    Clonenagh · townland · Laois

    The site of the celebrated monastery of Clonenagh lies about a mile and a half from Mountrath on the road to Maryborough. Local tradition tells of seven churches once standing there, though O'Donovan dated the surviving ruin no earlier than the 15th century.

    Read the passage

    The site of this celebrated monastery is still well known — situate about a mile and a-half from Mountrath, on the road leading to Maryborough. Local tradition tells of there having been seven churches at Clonenagh ; these have now quite disappeared. There is a church in ruins here, but, according to the opinion of O’Donovan, it does not date further back than the 15th century. This old church, after being suffered to fall to ruin, was repaired, and used as a Protestant place of worship, up to a comparatively recent period. Archdall, writing in 1786 (Monast. Hib.) states that “ Clonenagh is now a parish church of the Diocese of Leighlin.” The adjoining grave-yard is used as a place of interment, chiefly of Protestants ; on the opposite side of the road is another cemetery, in which Catholics, exclusively, are interred. At least three priests lie interred here ; the tomb-stones are so over- run with weeds and grass, that it is very difficult to decipher them. After a vigorous application of brush and water, one of these revealed the following interesting inscription : — “ Here lieth the body of the Revd. Lawrence Colleton, Pastor of Clonenagh, Bachelor of Divinity in the Sorbonne, and Archdeacon of the Diocese of Leighlin, who departed

    this life, the of September, in the year of our Lord, 1788,

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 282

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here lies the site of Clonenagh, a celebrated monastery about a mile and a half from Mountrath on the road to Maryborough, where local tradition speaks of seven churches once standing, though all have quite disappeared. The surviving ruined church, which O'Donovan dated no earlier than the 15th century, was allowed to fall to ruin before being repaired and used as a Protestant place of worship up to a comparatively recent period, and Archdall writing in 1786 recorded that "Clonenagh is now a parish church of the Diocese of Leighlin." The adjoining graveyard serves chiefly for Protestant burials, while another cemetery nearby is used exclusively for Catholics, where at least three priests lie beneath tombstones so overgrown with weeds and grass that they are very difficult to decipher. After vigorous cleaning, one stone revealed the inscription of the Reverend Lawrence Colleton, Pastor of Clonenagh, Bachelor of Divinity in the Sorbonne, and Archdeacon of the Diocese of Leighlin, who departed this life in September 1788.

29. Site of old religious house at Friarstown

    Friarstown · townland · Carlow

    In the townland of Friarstown the site of an old religious house is pointed out, its appearance now being that of a mound of rubbish covered with grass.

    Read the passage

    dreadful sacrilege is recorded to have taken place at Freynestown, probably this Friarstown. There is little doubt, however, that the outrage was grossly exaggerated by those who reported it to the Holy Father: — “ 1331. The Leinster Irish rise against the English, they set fire to everything, even the churches, and burn the Church of Freynstown with eighty persons in it; and when the priest, in his sacred vestments, and carrying the Host in his hands, tried to get out, they drove him back with their spears, and burned him ; for this cause they were excommunicated by a Papal Bull sent to the Archbishop of Dublin, and the country put under an interdict. They despised these things, and again laid waste the County of Wexford; but at Ballycarney, 400 of them were killed by Richard Whitty, Richard FitzHenry and the townsmen of Wexford, and many others, were drowned in the River Slaney.” In the townland of Friarstown the site of an old religious house is pointed out. Its appearance is that of a mound of rubbish covered with grass.

    Urglin.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 361

30. St. Brogan Cloen composes hymn to St. Brigid at Clonmore

    Clonmore · townland · Carlow · 620–650

    St. Brogan Cloen resided at the Monastery of Clonmore and composed his famous Hymn in praise of St. Brigid there, one of the most valuable records of her life, likely between 620 and 650.

    Read the passage

    St. Brogan Cloen resided for some time at the Monastery of Clonmore, and here he composed, at least in part, his famous Hymn in praise of St. Brigid, which is justly described as one of the most valuable records of the life of our great Patroness that have been handed down by our early Church. It is preserved in a very ancient MS. in Trinity College, Dublin, and also in the Liber Hymnorum , now in the Library of the Franciscan Convent, Merchant’s Quay, Dublin. These MSS. are judged to be not later than the ninth century. In the latter copy a title, in the original hand, prefixed to the hymn, states: “ The place where this hymn was composed was Sliabh Bladhma, or Cluaim-mor-Maedhog. The author of it was Brogan Cloen. The time was when Lughaidh, son of Loeghaire, was King of Ireland, and Ailill, son of Dunlang, was King of Leinster. The cause of writing it, viz. : Ultan of Ardbraccan, the tutor of Brogan, requested him to narrate the miracles of Brigid in appropriate poetical language, for Ultan had collected all the miracles of Brigid for him.” This hymn, which wTas composed probably between the years 620 and 650, is inserted, with a Latin translation, in the Irish Ecclesiastical Record for February, 1868.

    In the grave-yard attached to the neighbouring modern Chapel of Clonmore, the subjoined epitaphs appear on the tombs of priests who are there interred : “ Here lie the remains of the Rev. Felix Nolan, who had the care of this parish for more than 50 years. He lived an exemplary life, was a friend to the poor, a father to the orphan, and died the 21st day of Nov., 1774, aged 84 years. The Lord have mercy on his soul.”

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come

31. St. Conleth's Reformatory established at Philipstown

    Philipstown · townland · Kildare · 1870

    In 1870, a new Reformatory School was established at Philipstown in buildings previously used as a Convicts' Prison, certified by the Chief Secretary on 22 December 1870, teaching boys trades such as shoemaking, tailoring and carpentry under the Brothers of Mary Immaculate.

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    In the year 1870, the Managers of St. Kevin’s Reformatory, Glencree, Co. Wicklow, finding that institution to be no longer able to afford accommodation for the number of juvenile offenders offered to their care, resolved to establish a new Reformatory in connection with the older institution. The Government of Ireland becoming aware of this purpose, offered to hand over, on easy terms, the extensive buildings at Philipstown, which had been previously used as a Convicts’ Prison. This offer was accepted, and the premises were certified as a Reformatory School by the Chief Secretary, Dec. 22nd, 1870. The boys are instructed in farming, and in the various trades. During the day they may be seen busily engaged in shoemaking, tailoring, carpentry, harness-making, baking, and gardening. The boys are taught in school for about four hours daily, — divided between morning and evening, — by competent teachers. Nor is music forgotten. The Institution is under the care of the Brothers of Mary Immaculate, and is presided over by a Priest of that Order, who is styled the Manager, and is responsible, as such, to the Government authorities. The work which the Reformatory has set itself to do, — to reclaim and re-cast the minds and hearts of poor children, who from some unhappy cause or other had already become enlisted in that confederacy of crime which forms one of the chief tribulations of society, — is unquestionably a most laudable and meritorious enterprise.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 395

32. St Fiachra founds church at Ullard via miraculous relic

    Ullard · townland · Kilkenny

    St Fiachra brought an arm relic of St Comgall from Bangor; when he stopped to baptize a child at chief Aedh's house in Idrone, the relic flew into the air and fell to earth, and Aedh gave that spot as a church site, believed to be Ullard.

    Read the passage

    was educated under St. Fintan, in Clonenagh. — (TJsher). When, worn out with extreme old age and the cares of his monastery, he was on his death bed, his former disciple, St. Fiachra, came from his church in Idrone to administer to him the Holy Viaticum. Some considerable time after the death of St. Comgall, St. Fiachra revisited Bangor, on which occasion he brought away, as a precious relic for his church in Idrone, an arm of the saint. On his homeward journey he stayed at the house of Aedh, chief of Idrone. St. Fiachra was requested to baptize a son who had just then been born to his entertainer; when taking his Ritual from his sceata or satchel, the relic of St. Comgall flew up into the air, and fell back into the earth. Aedh gave the spot where the relic was buried for a church site to St. Fiachra; this is probably the church of Erard or Ullard. — (Loc. Pat. ut supra). The Martyrology of Donegal gives the feast of this saint on the 2nd of May ; “ Fiachra of Erard in Ui Drona and a gloss on the Felire of Aengus says : — “ Fiachra was a great man, abbot of famous Irard, i.e., in Ardna-Sruthe in Ui Drona.” This name signifies the Hill of the Sage, another name, probably, for Erard.

    At Ullard* are the ruins of a church, which is thus described by Dr. O'Donovan — (Letters, Ordnance Survey, E.I.A.) : —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 210

33. St. Finnian founds monastery at Aghowle in the sixth century

    Aghowle · parish · Wicklow · 500–516

    St. Finnian, later of Clonard, founded a monastery at Aghowle (Achadh-abhla) at the beginning of the sixth century after landing in Wexford and gaining permission from Muiredach, sovereign of Hy Kinsellagh. He remained there sixteen years before moving on.

    Read the passage

    “ This parish,” writes O’Donovan, Ord. Survey Papers , “lies in the west of the barony of Siol Elaigh ( Shilelagh ), and is bounded on the north by the Parishes of Liscolman and Crecrim ; on the east by the Parishes of Mullennacuffe and Carnew ; on the south by the Parish of Moyacomb ; and on the west by the County of Carlow. The name of this parish signifies Applefield. I have the honour of being the first who connected this parish with its ancient history ; and though I am convinced that it will never be of any use to mankind to know that the Parish of Aghowle, in the barony of Shilelv, in the County of Wicklow, is the Achadh-abhla and Achadh-n-abhall of the ancient Irish writers, still it gives me consolation to be the first Irish Topographer who proved their identity by book and field inquiry.” St. Finnian, afterwards of Clonard, founded a monastery here at- the beginning of the sixth century. On his return from Britain, where he had been engaged in missionary labours, St. Finian landed on the coast of Wexford. “ Thence,” writes Dr. Lanigan, ( [1 . 465), “he sent messengers to Muiredach, sovereign of Hy Kinsellagh, requesting permission to enter his territory. The prince, highly rejoiced at his arrival, went to visit him, and throwing himself at his feet, told him that wherever he would wish to erect a church he should not want ground for that purpose. Finnian then set about his mission, erected some churches, and established a religious community at a place called Achadh-abhla.” The Monastery of Achadh-abhla, Colgan remarks, is in the district of Hy Kenselaigh, and was previously named Cro-saileach (the house or church of the sallows or willows) ; here it is said the Saint remained for sixteen years. “ St. Finnian, then, wishing to extend the worship of the Most High God, leaving several monks in the place already referred to, which is called Achadh-abhla, passed into the region of Hybarche.” — A A. SS., p. 394.

    “ A.D. 1017. (rede, 1018, O’Donovan ), Cormac Ua Mithidhein (O’ Meehin), Abbot of Achadh-abhla, died.” — Four Masters.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 176

34. St Mochua founds monastery at Timahoe, 7th century

    Timahoe · townland · Laois · 654–657

    Timahoe, originally called Teach Mochua, derives its name from St. Mochua who founded a monastery there in the seventh century; he was venerated on 24th December and died in 654 or 657.

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    This place, which was originally styled Teach Mochwa, derives its name from St. Mochua, who founded a monastery here in the seventh century. Archdall, confounding this saint with another of the same name, erroneously ascribes its foundation to the fifth century. St. Mochua was venerated on the 24th of December, at which date the Martyrology of Donegal has the entry: “ Mochua, son of Lonan, of Tigh Mochua in Laoghis, in Leinster. He was of the race of Eochaidh Finn-fuathairt, from whom Brighit is (descended). Fineacht, daughter of Loichin, son of Dioma Chiret, of Oill Chonaigh, was his mother.” The Feilire of iEngus thus refers to him : — “ 24 Dec. A waiting on Lucianus with my-Cua, a fair couple. Lonan’s son chances (to come) to us on the night before Christmas.” To which the gloss in the Leabbar Breac, adds : — " ‘ My-Cua,’ i. Mo-chua, son of Lonan, of Tech-Mochua in Leix of Leinster, and of Daire Mis (?) in Sliab Fuait; i.e. of Teach Mochua in Leix, i.e. Mochua, son of Lonan, son of Senach, son of iEngus, son of Lugna, son of Breg-dolb, son of Art-Cborb, son of Tiacha, i.e. son of Feidlimid Rechtmar.” This saint died — according to the Chronicon Scottorum — in 654, “ a.d. Mochua, son of Lonan, quevit,” but in 657, according to the Four Masters.

    a.d. 880. Focarta, son of Dubhdacheall, Abbot of Teach- Mochua, died. — ( Four Masters.)

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 345

35. St Patrick's Well pilgrimage site near Rathvilly

    Patrick's Well · electoral division · Limerick

    In the townland of Patrick's Well is the well where St. Patrick is supposed to have baptized the King of Leinster with his wife and son; a Patron used to be held there on 17 March until discontinued for abuses, though pilgrims still visit occasionally.

    Read the passage

    Near the village of Rathvilly in the townland of Waterstown, on a rising ground called Highfield, are to be seen the scattered remains of an old church, of which the entire foundation is not traceable. It was an oblong structure and measured apparently about 40 feet in length by 24 in width. A rath rises over this church site to a height of about 25 feet, on which interments take place. Here there is an ancient and rudely- wrought stone cross ; height of the shaft, 6 feet 2 inches ; length of the arms, 2 feet 9 inches; breadth of shaft, 13 inches. Beside this cross is a smaller one, on which is rudely sculptured a figure of Christ crucified. It stands about 2 feet 4 inches in height ; the arms, which are broken away, were enclosed in a solid disc. This second cross is probably not very ancient. There is also the socket of another cross, measuring about 1 foot 9 inches in width, and 9 inches in height. On the same townland, at the corner of a road, there is a stone, having a square hole, about 6 inches deep, in the top, whence it is called clock- a-phoill, i.e., 6i the stone with the hole,” or, as it is sometimes corruptly rendered, “ the Holystone.” But for the shallowness of the hole, it might he supposed to be the pedestal of a cross. This cloch- a-phoill is not to be confounded with one, which has a history attaching to it, in the Parish of Tullow. Near at hand, in the townland of Patrick’s Well, is the well at which it is supposed St. Patrick baptized the King of Leinster and his wife and son ; it has ever since borne the name of that saint. A Patron used to be held here on the 17th of March, but had to be discontinued on account of abuses. It is still occasionally visited by pilgrims. The historical Moat of Rathville is situate in the townland of Knockroe, within less than half-a-mile from the village. In the townland of Knockavah, at a distance of about 100 perches from the Moat, on the road to Hacketstown, stood the humble chapel of the district previous to the year 1785. In the year named, the Chapel of Rathvilly,

    344

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 323

36. The apostate's tomb and John Patsull inscription at Tinnehinch

    near Tinnehinch · townland · Wicklow

    A tomb in Tinnehinch burial-ground bears the inscription of John Patsull, aged 78, and local tradition holds he was an apostate, possibly an apostate priest, who was reconciled with the Church on his deathbed. He reputedly lived nearby and ran a small mill whose remains are still visible.

    Read the passage

    Tradition says that the denizen of this tomb was an apostate — some say an apostate priest — who was reconciled with holy Mother Church on his death-bed. It is said that he lived about a mile from Graig, on the Tinnehinch side of the river, where he had a small mill, the remains of which are still visible. At Lord Clifden’s Estate Office, at Gowran, an old map of Graig bears the name of John Patsull; — most probably the individual here referred to.

    This person being interred here, invests the place with a special dread to the ghost-fearing portion of the inhabitants.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 216

37. Ullard church ruin described as link between Irish and Gothic styles

    Ullard · townland · Kilkenny · 1100–1150

    O'Donovan describes the ruined parish church at Ullard as an important architectural link between ancient Irish and Gothic styles, with a notable round archway doorway from the early twelfth century resembling Killeshin church.

    Read the passage

    “ The old parish church is a very interesting ruin, being a link between the ancient Irish and Gothic styles. It consists of nave and choir, the nave measuring in length, 33 feet, and in breadth, 22 feet. The choir, 24 feet in length, and 18 in breadth. The doorway, which is in the west gable, is well worth the attention of the architectural antiquary, being a round archway, composed of three divisions, erected about the beginning of the twelfth century, immediately before the introduction of the Gothic style. It is very like the doorway of the church of Killeshin, near Carlow, but not so beautifully executed, and perhaps not quite so ancient. The choir arch was remodelled not many centuries since. The lower part of it is

    * In a taxation of the Diocese of Leighlin, made, probably, by Commissioners of King Henry VIII., the Prebenda de Ullard, is set down at £1 6s. 8d., Irish. Ullard constituted a Prebend in the Cathedral Chapter of Leighlin. Dr. Nicholas Maguire, born at Tullamaguina ( Dowling's Annals), and educated at Oxford, on his return was appointed to the Prebend of Ullard. He was highly esteemed for his learning, and his eloquence as a preacher. He was raised to the See of Leighlin, in 1490, though then only in the 31st year of his age. u Thaddeus Dowling comendes him for hospitalitie, and the number of cowes that he grased without losse (so well was he beloved), upon the woodes and mountains of Knockbrannen (Brandon Hill) Cumnsbally, Aghcarew, Ballycarew and Moilglass,” etc.— (Annotator of Dowling's Annals).

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 210

38. Vision of Angels Taking the Soul of Bishop Colman

    Oughaval · townland · Laois · 600–700

    Adamnan relates that St. Columba, at Iona, foresaw in a vision the death of Bishop Colman Mac Ua Laoigshe of Leinster, ordering his monks to prepare for a special Eucharist in his honour; the bishop's death was later confirmed by visitors from Leinster.

    Read the passage

    kille) bade them rest that day and prepare for the holy sacrifice, ordering also better fare for dinner, such as was given on Sunday. “ I must,” said he, “ though unworthy, celebrate today the holy mysteries of the Eucharist out of respect for the soul which last night went up to heaven beyond the sky and stars, borne thither by choirs of holy angels.” The brethren, in obedience to his command, rested that day, and after preparing for the sacred rites, they accompanied the saint to the church in their white robes as on festivals. And when they were singing the usual prayer in which St. Martin's name is commemorated, the Saint, turning to the chaunters, said : “ You must pray to-day for Saint Colman, Bishop.” Then all the brethren present understood that Colman, a Leinster Bishop, the dear friend of Columba had passed to the Lord. A short time after, some persons who came from the province of Leinster, told how the bishop died the very night it was revealed to the saint.

    At January 19th, a Saint Fachtna, Bishop of Nuachongbhail, is calendared. The. Mart. Tal. styles him “Fachtna Eps. on Uachongbhail, Reidbaircend.” As several places throughout the country bear the name of Nuachongbhail, it is impossible to decide to which of them this saint belongs. Cuimin of Connor, who, according to Colgan, flourished about the year 656, thus refers to a Saint Fachtna in his metrical poem —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 336

39. Archbishop Edmund Byrne, native of Ballybrack, ordained at Seville

    Ballybrack · townland · Carlow · 1656–1678

    Dr. Edmund Byrne, later Archbishop of Dublin, was born in Ballybrack in this parish in 1656, completed his education in Spain, and was ordained priest in 1678 at Seville by the Coadjutor Bishop of that See.

    Read the passage

    Dr. Edmund Byrne, Archbishop of Dublin, who performed the ceremony of consecration of the second chapel of Kitennill in 1709, was a native of Ballybrack in this parish. He was born in 1656, and having completed his education in Spain, was ordained priest in 1678, at Seville, by the Coadjutor Bishop of that See. He served on the mission in Dublin, where, by the Registry of 1704, we find him residing in St. Francis-street, aged 48, P.P. of St. Nicholas Without, and having for his sureties Patrick Howard, of Francis-street, baker ; and Denis Byrne, of the same, tailor. In 1707 he was appointed to the See of Dublin in succession to Dr. Peter Creagh. “ Soon after his promotion,” writes D’Alton — Memoirs of Archbps., Dublin, p. 460 — “ it was proposed, under parliamentary sanction, that a public convention of Protestant and Catholic prelates and doctors should be held for two months, to propound and debate on the disputed articles of faith, on which occasion, says the Rev. John Clinch, this praiseworthy Archbishop alone, of all the Catholic prelates, attended said conferences, and there with such zeal, such wisdom, and such superhuman eloquence, propounded the principles of his religion in the public College of Dublin, that many, illuminated by the rays of truth, shaking off the yoke of heresy, sought the harbour of safety in the bosom of the Church.” The Executive, however, were not influenced by this reasoning. Queen Anne, on her accession, shamelessly broke the public faith pledged to the Catholics as the condition of their sub-

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 156

40. Building and disputed origins of Clonmore Castle

    Clonmore · townland · Carlow · 1180–1332

    The Castle of Clonmore's builder is uncertain, ascribed by some to DeLacy around 1180, while local tradition per Dr. O'Donovan attributes it to the Hackett family, from whom Hacketstown is named. In 1332 it was retaken and repaired by the English justiciar Antonius de Lacy.

    Read the passage

    Castle of Clonmore . — Who built this castle is matter of uncertainty. By some it is ascribed to DeLacy, who built many other castles in this and the adjoining Counties : Carlow, Tullow, Leighlin-Bridge, Castledermot, &c.? about the year 1180. Dr. O’Donovan states that local tradition refers its erection to the family of Hackett, who owned a vast tract in the north of the County of Carlow, and from whom Hacketstown is named. According to the Chronicles of Ireland it was taken in 1332 by the English: “a.d. 1332. Antonius de Lacy, justiciarius, in crastino Trinitatis, collecto exercitu, castrum de Clonmore reparavit et renovavit.” — Clyn. D’Alton, in Collections of County of Carlow, states that the custody of the Castle of Clonmore was, in 1345, granted to Thomas Wogan, a Kildare proprietor. The same authority says that in 1356, the custody of this castle was granted to Simon Reilly of Walterstown, in the County of Carlow ; that, soon after, it was given in charge to James Archbold; and that, in 1357, Peter de Boutiller was appointed by the Lord Deputy, to keep the Castle of Clonmore for King Edward III.

    In consideration of the eminent services of Peter, Earl of Ormond and Ossory, and his son James, lord Butler, treasurer of Ireland, in opposing the Geraldines when in rebellion, King Henry VIII., by letters patent, dated at Westminster, 23rd October, 1538, granted to the said Peter and James the manors, castles, and towns of Rathvilly, Clonmore, Calleghmetelleyne, Kallarne, Powerstown, and Leighlin, for their lives, or to the longest liver, and the heirs male of the said Peter for ever.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 174

41. Captain Hardy's memorial at Hacketstown church

    Hacketstown · town · Carlow · 1798

    Captain Hardy, who fell in the Battle of Hacketstown, is buried in the burial-ground of Hacketstown Protestant Church, where his sons erected a monument to his memory.

    Read the passage

    Captain Hardy, vrho fell in this engagement, is interred in the burial-ground attached to Hacketstown Protestant Church, where a monument, erected by his sons to his memory, sets forth that lie “ was killed in action when fighting for his king and country against the rebels at the battle of Hacketstown.,’

    Knockananagh.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 224

42. Castle of Ballyadams taken by Lord Justice Brabazon in 1546

    Ballyadams · townland · Laois · 1546

    The Castle of Ballyadams, built by the O'Mores, was captured in 1546 by the Lord Justice Sir William Brabazon and the Earl of Desmond during a fifteen-day plundering campaign in Leix, after which warders were left in the castle.

    Read the passage

    whither the Earl of Desmond came with a numerous army to join him. They remained for fifteen days plundering that country, and they took Baile-Adam, a castle belonging to the O’More, and left warders in it.’’

    The following is found in the Patent Rolls (Morrin, n. 199) :

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 117

43. Castle of Ballylehane dismantled by O'More, O'Conor, O'Dempsy, 1346

    Ballylehane · electoral division · Laois · 1346

    In 1346, the castles of Ley, Kilmeade, and Ballylehane were taken and dismantled by O'More, O'Conor, and O'Dempsy on the Thursday before the feast of the Holy Cross.

    Read the passage

    “ A.D. 1315. Strages magna Hybernicorum scilicet de O’Morehys et hominibus illorum, circiter 300 occiduntur juxta Bellilethan, in Epiphania Domini.” Again, two years later, Clyn states that there was a great defeat of the Irish at Castledermot, by Edmund Butler, and another, of the soldiers of O’More, by the same at Baclethan. (Ballylehane.) And in another entry in Clyn’s Annals, under date 1346, the castle of Ballylehan is expressly referred to, in which it is stated that in the week succeeding Low Sunday, the castles of Ley, Kilmeade, and Ballylehane were taken and dismantled by O’More, O’Conor, and O’Dempsy, on Thursday before the feast of the Holy Cross. “ A.D. 1346. In hebdomada post Dominicam in Albis, castra de Ley, Kilmehid, et Ballylethan, capiuntur et franguntur per 0 Murthe, O’Konkur, et O’Dymisey, die Jovisin crastino Sanctae Crucis.” O’Donovan identifies Ballilethan, as “ Ballylehane, Queen’s County.” As Ballylehane was within the territory of the O’Mores, there can be scarcely a doubt that the castle was built by them. A Branch of the MacDonnells appears to have settled in this locality in the 16th century. On the 7th of May, 1578, an agreement was entered into between Sydney, the Lord Deput}r, and the three septs of the Clandonnells, the representative of one of which was Maelmurry McEdmund of Rahin. ‘Edmund McDonnell of Rahen/ is named in the Carew Calendar, A.D. 1596, as one of the principal gentlemen of the Queen’s County. A Memorial presented by the Irish Council to Essex, in 1599, represents the Mac- Donnells as then in rebellion with the O’Mores ; and about this time their castles of Rahin and Derry were forfeited, and bestowed on Sir R. Greame ( See Vol. 2, p. 153.) An Inquisition, taken at Maryborough, 18th April, 1628, sets forth that the late King James, by letters Patent, dated 4th May, 1613, had granted to Sir Richard Greham, and his heirs and assigns intail, the town and lands of Rahinderry, Banganagh, ( Shan - ganagh) . . . Killmaronny, Ballelihan alias Ballelinan , Agharow alias Aghenure, Ballecornan, and a moiety of the townland of Balleaghan, containing 4 castles, 20 messuages, and 717 acres ; in the town and land of Rahinduff, 6 messuages and 71 acres ; in Cremorgan alias Clomorgan, 80 acres of arable and 10 of brushwood and moor ; in Dowary and Moneduff, 6 messuages and 184 acres ; in Rathaspick, Monynebooly, and

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 71

44. Cremated bones found within Round Tower of Timahoe

    Timahoe · townland · Laois

    Sir William Betham was informed that an urn containing cremated bones had been found beneath the floor of the Round Tower of Timahoe. Mr. Pierce Moore of Cremorgen confirmed similar urns filled with bones were commonly found in sand-hills nearby. Petrie disputed the pagan origin theory, suggesting the tower wall was built around an existing sand-hill.

    Read the passage

    Sir William Betham having been informed than an urn containing cremated bones had been found beneath the floor of the Round Tower of Timahoe, wrote to Mr. Pierce Moore of Cremorgen, in the neighbourhood. Mr. Moore in reply tells him that on inquiry he finds that fifty years before some persons were tempted to dig within the tower in search of money, and that they came upon a flag-stone, underneath which they found an earthen vessel filled with bones, which had the appearance of being burned. He adds that “this circumstance caused them no surprise, as in almost every sand-hill in the neighbourhood (of which there are a great number) similar earthen vessels, filled with bones, have been found at four to eight feet down.” Sir W. Betham concludes from this, thatthe Round Towers were used as monuments and sepulchres for the dead, and the pagan process of cremation having taken place with regard to the remain? said to have been found at Timahoe, he judges that they were of pagan origin. Mr. Petrie in reply (1) questions the fact of the finding of this pagan sepulchral urn within the tower, for which there is no evidence beyond a mere hearsay story of more than fifty years’ standing ; and (2), even if it had been found there, it would only go to prove that the wall of the tower had been built around one of these low sand-hills which Mr. Moore says are so numerous in the neighbourhood, and in which it was so usual to find similar earthen vessels filled with bones. — (Id. 418.)

    A castle stood at Timahoe, built about the year 1183 by Hugh de Lacy for Myler Fitz-Henry, who had married his niece. The King, suspicious of the designs of De Lacy as Chief Governor, recalled him in 1181, and sent over John, Constable of Chester, and Richard de Pech, as Justices ; these, in De Lacy’s absence, as Hanmer writes, “ subtilly tooke from Myler FitzHenry the possessions in Kildare which were given him by Strongbow, under colour of exchange, and gave

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 350

45. Derivation of Carlow's name and King Cormac's grant

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 567

    The ancient name Catharlach/Ceithiorlach is discussed as meaning fort or city on the lake, tied to the confluence of the Burren and Barrow rivers. King Cormac of Hy-Bairrche granted three cahers including Ceatharlach to St. Comgall before his death in 567.

    Read the passage

    The derivation of the name of Carlow is thus discussed by Hr. O’Donovan. — Ord. Papers, R.I.A. “ The ancient name of Carlow was, it is locally said, Catharlach, which is explained as signifying the city or fort on the lake or river. It is thought to signify this, as the town is built at the junction of the rivers Burren and Barrow where, tradition says, the waters of both rivers covered so extensive a tract of ground, as to merit the name of a lake. This was before the erection of the castle which, when it was built, is supposed by some who undertake to account for the name, to have been called Cathair-lach, meaning, in their view, the fort on the lake or river, because it stands on the ground occupied by the lake above mentioned (any one who notes the high position occupied by the castle will see that this cannot be so), or because it has its situation so close to the river Barrow. In the Annals of the Four Masters the name is written Ceithiorlach ; this spelling favours the tradition regarding the derivation of the name prevailing in the County Kilkenny, which would have it to mean Quadruple lougli.*

    Whatever opinion be accepted on this subject, it is certain that the town of Carlow had obtained its name long before the erection of the castle, now standing there in ruins. It appears from our ancient records that Cormac, Kiug of Hy-Bairrche, in which territory Carlow was situated, before he joined the community at Bangor under St. Comgall, and where he died in the year 567, made a grant to this saint of three cahers or towns in his territory, viz., Ceatharlach, Foibren, and Ardcrena. M'Firbis adds that he also gave a place called l Eimlach-n-Each, to the same saint. The author of Loca Patriciana (p. 213, note) remarks that Eimlach-n-Each means “ the strath or holm of the horses,” and was perhaps the old local designation of the flats along the river Barrow, about Carlow. Ardcreina may be another form

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 31

46. Dunamase plundered, Abbot Aedhe taken prisoner and martyred

    Park or Dunamase · townland · Laois · 843

    Dun-Masg (Dunamase) was plundered by the foreigners in 843 and Aedhe, Abbot of Tir-da-glass and Clonenagh, was taken prisoner into Munster where he suffered martyrdom.

    Read the passage

    843. Dun-Masg (Dunamase) was plundered by the foreigners, and Aedhe, Abbot of Tir-da-glass and Clonenagh, was taken

    * Dr. Todd— Introduction to Martyrology of Donegal, thus describes the Feilir£, and the Martyrology of Tallaght: — Feilire of Aengus Ceile De. “ Four lines in rhyme are devoted to each day of the year, and the author has imposed on himself the task of introducing into those four lines the names of the saints commemorated on that day. The copy of this work preserved in the library of the Royal Irish Academy, and a still more perfect copy in the Bodleian Library, Oxford, are accompanied by a copious interlinear gloss and scholia, containing some very curious legends and traditions, which throw great light on the ancient state of religiou and of society in Ireland down to the eleventh century.”

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 280

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in 843, Dunamase was plundered by the foreigners. Aedhe, who was Abbot of Tir-da-glass and Clonenagh, was taken prisoner and carried into Munster, where he suffered martyrdom.

47. Edward II grants tower-building charter for Old Leighlin

    Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow · 1310

    King Edward II granted a charter (1310) to Adam le Bretoun and the burgesses of Old Leighlin permitting tolls to fund completion of a defensive stone tower against the neighbouring Irish, requiring maintenance of men-at-arms.

    Read the passage

    “ The King to his well-beloved Adam le Bretoun Health. — Whereas, at the supplication of certain nobles of our realm of Ireland, and gentlemen of the town of Leighlin, we, for the public good and to resist the wickedness of the Irish living in the neighbourhood of Leighlin, have granted to the said men, a muragium (i.e. grant for building walls ) for enclosing their town aforesaid. And whereas the said men have come before our beloved and faithful ( Sir John) Wogan, our Lord Justice of Ireland, on the Sunday next following the feast of St. Valentine, martyr, last past, supplicating at his throne the aforesaid muragium which he had so granted to them ; we are pleased to grant unto you who have taken .... a certain stone tower near the

    8

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come

48. Ferguson's 1834 description of Ullard chancel features

    Ullard · townland · Kilkenny · 1834

    Samuel Ferguson, writing to Dr Petrie in 1834, described curious now-decayed features of Ullard church including a stone-roofed hutch covering a transverse vault with a recess containing bones, and a stone staircase within the chancel wall.

    Read the passage

    “ Mr. (now Sir) Samuel Ferguson, writing to Dr. Petrie in 1834, describes some curious features in this building which have since fallen into decay. ‘Entering the chancel/ he says, ‘ the first object that catches the attention is a flat stone-roofed hutch, covering the descent to a transverse vault or crypt, with a low-arched roof, and lighted by a narrow slit in the wall at one end, while in the centre there is a recess containing some bones. In the north-west corner of the chancel a narrow square-headed doorway may be seen with finely chiselled jambs, on passing through which you come upon a stone staircase, let into the thickness of the wall towards the gable. It is straight for a dis-

    * One of the conjectures regarding these bullaun stones is, that they were used by the ancient Irish for grinding or pounding corn. A person who has travelled in Mexico states that the native Indians there pound corn for cakes in stones shaped for the purpose, exactly similar to our bullaun stones.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 213

49. Founding of the monastery of Cluain Ednech (Clonenagh) by St Fintan

    Clonenagh · townland · Laois

    St Columba sent Fintan to a place in southern Leinster called Cluain, where he built an extensive monastery, Cluain Ednech (meaning 'ivied retreat'), which became renowned, attracting people from all over Ireland to join the monastic life under his rigorous rule.

    Read the passage

    coelestis gratise Thesauros amplificaret, ipsum Sanctus Columba memoratus non sine divino Monitu, ad Australis Lageniae Pagum cui Nomen Cluain, misit, ubi amplissimum aedificavit Monasterium, Cluain Ednech , quod Latink Latibulum hederosum interpretatur, nuncupatum, in quo sicut Dignitate sublimior, iU Yirtute splendidior evasit. Ibi namque in divinis Obsequiis, et Regularibus Discipline vigilantissimus, Vitam rigidissimam, et austeram, sectatus est ; omnibusque praeclaris Dotibus refulgens, piissimis Moribus, et Angelica Conversationis Exemplo Monachos, Cura sua traditos, informavit. Fama autem hujus Yenerabilis Yiri, omni ccelestium Donorum Genere cumulatissimi, longk lateque diffundente, universorum Ordinum Homines de quatuor Hibernia Nationibus ad Coenobium suum turmatim confluebant, Monasticam Yitam professuri, in eoque Mundo mortui, et Christo crucifixi, gloriosa de conculcato antiquo Serpente Trophaa reportarunt.

    Lectio YI.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 387

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Clonenagh, St Columba sent Fintan to a place in southern Leinster called Cluain, where he built an extensive monastery. It was named Cluain Ednech, meaning "ivied retreat." Fintan followed a very rigid and austere life there, vigilant in divine service and monastic discipline, and he shaped the monks under his care through pious conduct and example. His fame spread far and wide, and men of all orders from the four nations of Ireland came in crowds to join the monastic life at his monastery.

50. Lionel fortifies Carlow with walls, 1361

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1361

    Lionel, son of Edward III, arrived as Lord Lieutenant in 1361 and moved the King's Exchequer to Carlow, spending £500 to fortify the town with walls, of which no vestige remained by the time of writing.

    Read the passage

    a.d. 1361. Lionel, son of Edward III., arrived in Ireland as Lord Lieutenant. The importance attached by him to the possession of this district is shown by his causing the King’s Exchequer to he removed to the town of Carlow, and by his expending the (then) large sum of £500 in fortifying it with walls, of which there is at present no vestige. Before long, however, the English were obliged to remove the boundaries of the Pale to within two miles of Dublin. There is extant in the Bermingham Tower a record of 37th Edwd. III., Pro Barrio Amovendo a Catterlogh usque ad Dublinium.

    a.d. 1397. Carlow Castle was taken by Donald MacArt, who styled himself King of Leinster. — (Anth. Hib. Vol. II., 393.)

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 36

51. Mass Lough and penal-times chapel site at Heywood demesne

    Haywood Demesne · townland · Laois

    In Heywood demesne, the site is pointed out of the humble thatched chapel that preceded the present parish church, with the adjoining lake designated the Mass Lough, possibly from Mass having been celebrated there in penal times before a chapel existed.

    Read the passage

    In Heywood demesne, the site is pointed out of the humble thatched chapel that preceded the present parish church. The adjoining lake is designated as the Mass Lough, no doubt from its vicinity to the chapel, and perhaps from the Holy Sacrifice having been celebrated in penal times in the place before a chapel existed. The following anecdote is handed down in connection with this place: — In the pastorate of Dr. Cahill, a Friar, named M‘Gillicuddy, used to come from Kenmare, County Kerry, each Easter time, to help in hearing confessions. Dr. Cahill, by way of compensation, presented him on each occasion with a pair of riding boots. It happened at one time that a quarrel got up between these holy men, in consequence of which the Friar left when the work had been only gone half through ; the story goes that Dr. Cahill sent after him one boot of the intended pair.

    Dysart Gallen.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 99

52. Mountrath cotton and stuff-weaving industry described by Lewis, 1836

    Mountrath · town · Laois · 1836

    Lewis's Topographical Dictionary of 1836 describes an extensive cotton spinning and weaving factory in Mountrath run by Mr. Greenham, employing 150 in the mills and about 500 weavers at their own homes, alongside brewing, malting and oil milling.

    Read the passage

    Lewis (Top. Diet), writing in 1836, says — “ An extensive factory for spinning and weaving cotton is carried on by Mr. Greenham, who employs 150 persons in the spinning mills, and about 500 in weaving calicoes at their own houses; the average quantity manufactured is from 200 to 250 pieces weekly. Stuff-weaving is also carried on extensively ; there is a large brewery and malting establishment, and an extensive oil mill ; and the inhabitants carry on a very extensive country trade.”

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 284

53. Only place of worship in Hacketstown district was a covering for the altar in the fields (1731)

    Hacketstown · town · Carlow · 1731

    A 1731 Parliamentary Return covering Hacketstown, Clonmore, Aghold, Haroldstown and Kiltegan records that the only place of Catholic worship in this extensive district was a simple covering for the altar set up in the open fields, reflecting penal-era restrictions on Catholic practice.

    Read the passage

    Bey. Felix, or Phelim Nolan. He had the care of this parish for more than 50 years, and died Nov. 21st, 1774, aged 84. In a Parliamentary Return made in 1731 ( See Vol. I., p . 269), under the heading of Hacketstown , Clonmore , Aghold, Haroldstoivn , and Kiltegan , the priests of the district were Phelim Nowlan, Thomas Burn, and Father Andrew ; and the only place of worship in this extensive district was “ one covering for ye altar in ye fields.” In a similar Return, made in 1766 (see Appendix ), it is mentioned that “There are not either reputed Popish priests or Friars residing in any of the parishes of Aghold, Liscolman, or Cricrim. The reputed P.P. is Felix Nowlan, and his Coadjutor is Nicholas Duggan (died 28 January, 1767, aged 40; buried at Clonmore), both residing within the Union of Hacketstown.” Again, in the Return of same date of Parishes of Hacketstown , Clonmore , Harolds - town , and Kiltegan, the Popish priests are given as Patrick Rossiter (died 9th Aug., 1771, aged 52, buried at Clonmore), Phelim Nowlan, Nicholas Duggan, Daniel Murphy, and John Neville.

    The Rev. Augustine M‘Donald succeeded. The name “ Aug. M'Danell, Popish priest,” is found in same return as residing at Tullow. He is interred at Clonmore, and the inscription on his tomb states that he was for many years a good, exemplary Coadjutor and pastor of this parish, and that he died the 16th of March, 1788, aged 61.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 183

54. Plunder of Port-Laoighise by Desmond's son, 1580

    Maryborough · townland · Laois · 1580

    In 1580 John, son of the Earl of Desmond, plundered Port-Laoighise after slaying some of the town's guards, carrying off armour, horses, weapons and wealth, and plundered seven castles in Leix in a single day.

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    plundered Port-Laoighise, after having slain some of the guards of the town. He carried away from them accoutrements, armour, horses, weapons, and various wealth. In short, he plundered

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 253

55. Round Tower at Kellistown demolished in 1807

    Kellistown · parish · Carlow · 1794–1807

    A round tower that formerly stood at Kellistown, shown in an engraving as it existed in 1794, was deliberately pulled down in 1807 to make way for a belfry when the Protestant church was built.

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    Portions of the old church still remain, from which it appears to have been of very ancient date. The chancel arch is complete ; it consists of a triple cluster column of Norman style of architecture, and is composed of sandstone as is also an existing piscina. The length of the church cannot now be ascertained ; its width is 20 feet. The doorway which is also Norman, is placed in the south wall. A Round Tower formerly stood here, but was deliberately pulled down in 1807 when the present Pro testant Church was erected, in order to make way for the belfry. An engraving in the Anthologia Hibernica, Yol. IY,* shows this Tower as it existed in 1794 ; the following description accompanies the engraving : “ The Round Tower, which stands on an elevated ground, is built of grit stone and about 12 feet in diameter internally, but at present it is much destroyed. The Church appears to he very ancient, with semi-circular arches, but all the sculptured stones are taken away. ( The writer then refers to the Cummins monument.) Another tomb in the church is that of John Barry of Rath-Rush, who died April 28th, 3731. In the middle of the church stand the remains of the ancient font rudely cut out of a single stone, representing a kind of vase or urn, in the centre of which is a hole for the water to flow to the earth, agreeable to the ancient Irish Canons which order that every font shall have a pipe or channel for the water to be poured from the basin into the earth after the rite of Baptism is performed.” This font is still in existence. In the burial-ground two former pastors lie interred in one grave, over whose remains a stone bears the subjoined inscription : “ Here lieth ye body of ye Rev. Mr. James Brett, Rector of Ballin and Ratoe, who departed this life ye 19th of January, 1764, aged 41. May he rest in Peace. Also the Body of the Rev. J. Kelly, D.D., P.P., of Rathoe and Ballon. Departed this life the 5th of March, 1799, aged 43 years. Requiescat in Pace.”

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 106

56. Slaying of Abbot Connmhach at Achadh-Urghlais

    Agha · townland · Carlow · 1016

    In 1016, Connmhach, lector and Abbot of Achadh-Urghlais, was slain by the Ui-Bairrche according to the Four Masters.

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    A.D. 1016. Connmhach, lector and Abbot of Achadh-Urghlais, was slain by the Ui-Bairrche. — {Id.)

    The ruins of an exceedingly old Church still exist at Agha, of which Mr. O’Conor, who was engaged in the Ordnance Survey of 1839, says that “ It is referable to as early a period as history places an establishment at Achadh-Finglais.” The following particulars are also given by him : the length of the old Church interiorly is 45 J feet, and its breadth is 15| feet. In the east gable, about 5 feet from the ground, there is a window with a semicircular arch of chiselled granite stones at top, to the spring of which the window is 5 feet; the arch is, in addition, 3 feet to the key-stone. Another curious window is in the south side-wall, within 4 feet 2 inches of the east gable, and 5 feet 8 inches from the ground on the interior. This window was 3 feet broad at the lower part ; the top was surmounted by a rectilineally-pointed arch, 1 foot 7 inches high. The window

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 93

57. The great cavern of Killowen hill

    Killowen · townland · Cork

    On the northern side of Killowen hill, which rises to 718 feet, a cavern opens near its vertex and descends into a great subterranean saloon with a precipice leading to an inaccessible underground lake.

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    language. The Beturn of 1704 gives John Mac Allin, residing at Emo, aged 50, as P.P. of Killeny for past seven years ; he was ordained in 1674, at Ard-Patrick, Co. Louth, by Dr. Plunkett. His sureties were Murtogh Brennan and Morgan Fogarty, both of Boly, farmers. The old mansion of Killowen, in this parish, lately fallen to ruin, was the residence of Mr. Joseph Dunne, — accounted by local tradition, and not without strong evidence of probability, to have been the lineal descendant of Teige Keagh O’Doyne, and consequently the chief of the Hy-Began. O’Donovan was personally acquainted with him in 1833, when he was 87 years old. “ He was,” O’Donovan writes (note to Four MM., 1448), “one of the largest men in Europe, and had been an officer in the French service in his youth, but for the last 50 years of his life resided on his farm at Killowen. He had several sons, remarkable for their great stature, strength, courage and intelligence, but they all died unmarried.” Immediately over this mansion, and on the northern side of Killowen hill, which rises to a height of 718 feet, a cavern opens near its vertex, and slopes towards its centre. This cavern is narrow at its entrance, but after a descent of some fathoms, opens into a saloon 20 or 30 feet high, and upwards of 30 feet in diameter ; on one side a dark precipice breaks sheer down, 50 or 60 fathoms, to a subterraneous and quite inaccessible lake ( Gazetteer of Ireland). Most of the foregoing facts relative to the Parishes of Killeny and Kilteale are derived from a Paper by Father O’Hanlon, read before the It. I. Academy, June 24th, 1872.

    Kilcolmanbane.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 268

58. 1209 Charter granted to Burgesses of Carlow

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1209

    William Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, granted a charter to the burgesses of Catherlagh (Carlow), probably around 1209, establishing liberties including exemption from tolls and rights to hold guilds and dispose of property.

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    “ Be it known to all men, now and hereafter, that I, William Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, have granted to my Burgesses of Catherlagh all such liberties as Burgesses ought to have, and as it is lawful for me to confer, to be held and enjoyed for ever of me and my heirs, by them and their heirs. Imprimis. That no Burgess shall be drawn into any suit, or answer any plea which shall arise within the bounds of the Borough, in the Castle, or elsewhere, than in the hundred court of the town ; except pleas which concern the men of my household or my bailiffs ; but it shall be held in the hundred court of the town. No homicide committed within the bounds of the manor shall be esteemed a murder. Item. No Burgess shall be compelled to single combat, or any appeal which may be made against him, unless for the death of a man and for larceny or any other plea for which single combat can be reasonably awarded. Also, the said Burgesses shall be quit of toll, lastage, passage, pontage, and all other customs throughout my whole territory and j urisdiction, except in my town of Pembroke and my town of Wexford. No Burgess shall be amerced in any sum of money unless by the adjudication of the hundred court, and that amerciment also to the utmost

    Enrolled, 24th of Edwd. I.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 33

59. 1613 Charter of incorporation for Carlow

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1613

    James I granted a new Charter of incorporation to Carlow in 1613, empowering it to return two members to the Irish Parliament, with a body corporate of a Portrieve, twelve Burgesses, and the Commonalty.

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    fee-farm, or by lease for a few years, so as they are doubtful to name themselves for burgesses without the landlord’s consent, and the landlord is of the Church of Rome, and will return none but recusants, of which kind of men we have no need and shall have less use. Some of the towns have few others to return than recusants, and others, none but soldiers ; so that my advice on the point is that you bring direction and authority to make such towns boroughs only as we think fit and behoveful for the service, and to omit such as are named, if they be like to be against us, and to enable others by charter, if we can find them answerable to our expectation, albeit they be not in the list sent thither by the lord Carew now returned as allowed there.” This Charter ordained that within the said Borough of Carlow there be one body corporate and politic, consisting of one Portrieve, twelve Burgesses, and the Commonalty, that the said Portrieve and free Burgesses and their successors have, for ever, the power to elect and return two discreet and proper men to serve in every parliament in the said Kingdom of Ireland. “ And intending that it may appear hereafter that the new Corporation was first composed of good and honest men, we do make, constitute, and name, John Kerton, Gent., the first and modern Portrieve of said Borough, to continue in the said office until the feast of St. Michael the Archangel next after the date of these presents ; and we do likewise make, constitute, and name, John Bare, Esq., our Sergeant-at-law in our said Kingdom of Ireland, Sir Robert Jacob, Knt., Sir Adam Loftus of Rathfarnham, Anthony St. Leger, Peter Wright, William Greatrake, Nicholas Harman, John Bromfield, John Ely, Robert Whitacre, Robert Sutton, and Richard Keating, to be the first and modern twelve free burgesses of the said Borough to continue in the said office during their several lives . . . And further, we will that the said John Kerton, and every succeeding Portrieve of the said Borough, before he be admitted to office, shall take the oath, commonly called the oath of supremacy , as also his corporal oath well and truly to execute the office of Portrieve of the said Borough, etc. (The full text, translated, of this Charter is given in Ryan's Carlow , p. 134.)

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60. 1731 Return records Mass-house in Agha parish built 1727

    Leighlinbridge · town · Carlow · 1727–1731

    An Account of Mass-Houses and Popish Priests in the Diocese of Leighlin from 1731 records that in the Parish of Agha there was one Mass-house, built in 1727, one schoolmaster named Dogherty, and one Popish Priest, Michael Doyle, residing at Leighlin Bridge.

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    From an “Account of the Mass-Houses, Popish Priests, etc., in the Diocese of Leighlin,” by the Protestant Bishop, in 1731, {See Vol. I. p. 268,) we learn that in the Parish of Agha there was one Mass-house, built in 1727, no friary or friars, no nunneries or nuns, one school-master named Dogherty, and one Popish Priest, Michael Doyle, residing at Leighlin Bridge.” Whether the Mass-house here referred to stood in the portion of Agha parish now included in that of Bagnalstown, or that in the parish of Leighlin-Bridge, cannot be ascertained from the Return ; more probably it was in the latter. The same Return gives one Mass-house in the Parish of Dunleckney, and one in that of Lorum built since 1714. In Appendix to the present volume will be found particulars contained in a Return made in 1766.

    Succession of Pastors.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 95