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. Presentation Sisters Founded in Carlow

   Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1811–1813

   The first Presentation Convent in the diocese was founded in Carlow on 29 January 1811 by three Sisters from Kilkenny. Justices later licensed the foundresses as school-teachers to open a school in the town.

   Read the passage

   The Sisters of the Presentation Order were introduced into these Dioceses in 1811. The first House was that of Carlow, founded on the 29th of January in that year, three Sisters from the Convent of Kilkenny forming the new Community ( See Vol. /., y. 168.) Two years later, the Justices of the Peace for the County of Carlow gave permission to the foundresses, as school-teachers, to open a School in Carlow ; the following is the document : — “ County of Carlow, to Wit. By the Justices of the Peace at the General Quarter Sessions held at Carlow in and for the County of Carlow aforesaid, on Tuesday the 12th day of January, 1813, the said Justices were then and there pleased to license Catharine Meighan, Mary Ann Breen, and Mary Madden, and each and every one of them, to keep a School in the town of Carlow, in said County. Henry Humphrey, William Waters, James Dillon, William Browne.

   “ Examined— Alex. Humphrey, Clerk of the Peace, Co. Carlow.”

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 392

2. Priest died of fever caught in ministry

   Graiguenamanagh · townland · Kilkenny · 1848

   Rev. William Joyce caught fever while carrying out his sacred ministry and died in 1848 at age 27, commemorated in the church.

   Read the passage

   7. Sacred to the memory of Rev. Wm. Joyce, who caught fever in the discharge of his sacred ministry, of which he died on the 24th of May, 1848, aged 27 years. — In 'pace f actus est locus ejus} et in Sion habitatio ejus. — Requiescat in pace.

   9. Pray for the soul of the Rev. Michael Joyce, O.P., whose body is interred underneath. He was ordained Priest of the Order on the 23rd of March, 1862, and died at Milltown on the 3rd of May, 1864, aged 27 years. “Let perpetual light shine unto him, 0 Lord, and may he rest in peace. Amen.”

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 206

3. Priests' graves near the old church doorway at Killeshin

   Killeshin · townland · Laois

   Near the south side of the doorway of the old church at Killeshin lies a worn tombstone marking the grave of a priest, and tradition holds that two priests named Connor, uncle and nephew, are interred there.

   Read the passage

   nor heard of a round Tower, which stood on pillars. I incline to the belief that it was a real Cloighteach, coeval with the doorway ; but I think that the pillars mentioned as having supported it, might have been added in later times when the lower part had become holed.” Adjoining the old church, on the sub-division called Castlequarter, is an extensive mound, about thirty feet high, and surrounded by a deep fosse. A castle is said to have stood here, and to have been pulled down about the year 1791. Local tradition would have it that a large town extended in olden times from Killeshin to Sletty — a distance of two miles. Sir Charles Coote, in his Statistical Account of the Queen’s County, written towards the end of the last century (pp. 193-4), makes mention of a town having stood at Killeshin in comparatively modern times. “This place,” he writes, “ is remarkable for having once been the chief town in the Queen’s County, though there is not a stone building now standing except the ruins of the church. Here were the County Gaol and Courthouse where the Assizes were held, and the governor’s mansion, which was a fine building ; also a fort and public buildings, of which there is now no trace. The stone stocks and gallows stood the wreck of time the longest, and their sites are pointed out by the old people in whose recollection they are.” The elevation upon which the present church of Killeshin stands, was formerly called Cnoc-na- Croghaire ; and, more recently, by its English equivalent. Gallows Hill. O’Donovan thinks it highly improbable that there was at any time anything like a considerable town at Killeshin. He remarks that Sir C. Coote did not state the source from which he derived his information. The old Elizabethan map of Leix and Offaly shews Killeshin as a large church only, and Olderrig, in this parish, as a little village of some few houses, none of which would appear to have been a castle. Near the doorway of the old church, to the south side, there is a tombstone, the inscription on which is almost effaced, but enough remains, coupled with the fact of it facing the east, to shew that it marks the grave of a priest. It is said that two priests, named Connor, uncle and nephew, lie interred here ; one of them may perhaps be the Cure Connor referred to in the chapter on Baltinglass. The Cut of Killeshin, writes Lewis, Top. Diet., is a very singular artificial curiosity on the road to the collieries. It is a pass through a lofty hill, above half a mile long, and from 10 to 40 feet deep, according to the rise of the ground, but not more than four feet four inches wide, cut through the solid rock, so that cars have barely room to pass along it. The constant flow of water, and the friction of the

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 235

4. Robert Harpold raises a troupe at Shrule castle, 1641

   Shrule · townland · Laois · 1641

   During the 1641 rebellion, Robert Harpold manned his own castle of Shrule for the Irish cause, within two miles of Carlow, while other local leaders raised troupes elsewhere.

   Read the passage

   modern residence. In the Aphorismical Discovery, vol. 1, c. 5, it is related that “ Robert Harpold, in the Queene’s Countie, did (in 1641) make up a troupe, and maned his own casshell of Shrule, for the Irish, within two miles of Caterlogh, soe did Walter Bagnall make a troupe, and tooke Laghlin Bridge ; Edward Butler, of Tulloe, mad up men, and James Birne, all those proved verie curagious and earnest in those primer times, and so did all the Irish severally in the respective provinces, that I am confident a 100 English would not face ten Irish in these beginnings, for God did fight for them then, having, as they had, religion as their onely objecte of warfare, and allsoe the English was mightie discouraged, seeing the multitude of Irish in eache province, and how they thrived, that they thought strange where we are soe manie all the while, and persuaded themselves that they rose from porgatorie (which until then they never beleeved) in so much that verie many of the rankest Protestants, nay of theire chiefe ministers, was verie earnest for reconcilement to holy churche, and being received, showed extraordinarie devotion.”

   Ther.e is a local tradition that a priest named Moore, a member of the princely family of O’Moore, who officiated in the parish, was seized at the time of the Cromwellian persecution, and hanged at the cross-roads of Bohernassere, from an oak tree which is still standing. It is further stated that the body of the priest was buried beneath the tree on which he suffered martyrdom.

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 70

5. Sir Edward Butler created Viscount Galmoy and manor of Graigduiske

   Graiguenamanagh · townland · Kilkenny · 1618–1646

   Sir Edward Butler received a grant of the Abbey of Duiske and other lands in 1618, which were erected into the manor of Graigduiske with rights to hold a Thursday market and two fairs; he was later created Viscount Galmoy.

   Read the passage

   his majority in 1597. Piers was the first to reside in the Abbey, and became known as Piers Butler of the Abbey ; he had a second residence at Low-Grange. Sir Edward, his son, on 2nd April, 1618, received a grant of the Abbey of Duiske, with divers other lands in the counties of Kilkenny, Wexford, and Carlow, which were erected into the manor of Graigduiske, with power to hold there a Thursday Market, and two fairs on the feasts of St. Barnabas, and SS. Simon and Jude. He, by Privy Seal, dated Oxford, 31st January, 1645, and by Patent, 16th May, 1646, was created Viscount of Galmoy, in the said county ; he married Anne Butler, daughter of the second Lord Mountgarrett, by whom he had two sons, Piers and Thomas ; and two daughters, one of whom was married to — Masterson, of County Wexford, Esq., and the other to Thomas Davells, of Killeshin, in the Queen’s County, Esq. In 1641 Lord Galmoy took part with his fellow Catholics in the affairs of the Confederation of Kilkenny ; he sat as a Peer, whilst his son, Piers of Barrowmount, was a member of the Commons. He was an Ormondist, and for The Peace. He lost his property on the triumph of Cromwell, emigrated about 1649, and died in 1653. His tomb and that of his wife still exists, and is inserted in the wall of the vestry of the present Church. A silver chalice is still in use in the Church of Graig, beautifully wrought, and bearing the inscription : —

   “ Nobma. Domina Anna Butler,

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 196

6. Sisterhood of St. Brigid at Clonegall

   Clonegall · town · Carlow · 1810–1861

   A community of the Sisters of St. Brigid was established at Clonegall by Father Purcell; its last survivor, Mother Teresa Anne Sinnot, died in 1861. They occupied the house where the curates later resided.

   Read the passage

   “ In memory of the deceased Mother Teresa Anne Sinnot of the Community of St. Brigid — died March, 1861, aged 71 years.” This was the last survivor of a sisterhood established here by Father Purcell. They occupied the house in which the curates reside at the present time.

   There is a local tradition that a Bishop named McGuire, a relative to a priest at Clonegall, died here and lies interred in what is the porch of the present church. Within the church are tablets having the following inscriptions: — “>5* Hoc sub signo bellanti victoria certa est. Here lie the remains of the Rev. Patrick Dolan, P.P., who departed this life on the 7th day of August, in the year of our Lord 1842, of his age 59. He presided over the Parish of Hacketstown wisely and piously from 1821 to 1827. Translated to that of Clonegall — after 17 years of edification he closed (it is hoped) a holy life by dying the death of the saints, beloved and regretted by his people. Requiescat in Pace.”

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 163

7. St. Gobban founds Old Leighlin, retires to Killamery, buried at Clonenagh

   Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow · 632–639

   St. Gobban founded the monastery of Old Leighlin, later resigning it to St. Laserian and retiring to Killamery in Ossory in 632. He died in 639 and was interred at Clonenagh.

   Read the passage

   a.d. 639. St. Gobban, who founded the monastery of Old Leighlin, and afterwards resigned it to St. Laserian, retiring in 632 to Killamery in Ossory, died this year and was interred at Clonenagh. His feast was observed on the 6th of December. “ Gobban’s feast, a shout of thousands, with a train of great martyrdom, angelic wall, abbot of virginity, lucid descendant of Lane.” ( Feil . jEng.) The Gloss in Leab. Br. and entry in Mart. Donegal state that ‘ in Clonenagh are Gobban’s relics/ ”

   The next Abbot was St. Aedhan, son of Concradh ; he died on the 21st of November.

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 278

8. Abbot pardoned for role in Lambert Simnel rebellion

   Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1488

   In 1488 the Abbot of Baltinglass received a Royal Pardon for his participation in the rebellion of Lambert Simnell.

   Read the passage

   A.D. 1488. The Abbot of this House received the Royal Pardon for his participation in the rebellion of Lambert Simnell.

   -(Id.)

   Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 136

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Baltinglass, this was the site of an abbey whose abbot got caught up in national politics. In 1488 the Abbot of Baltinglass received a Royal Pardon for his part in the rebellion of Lambert Simnel.

9. Ancient church ruins and stone crosses at Highfield

   Highfield · street · Carlow

   At Highfield near Rathvilly village, scattered remains of an old church lie beneath a rath used for interments, alongside an ancient rudely-wrought stone cross and a smaller crucifixion cross, plus the socket of another cross.

   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

10. Ancient crosses' original sites identified

    Ballyogan · townland · Kilkenny

    One cross came from the old Church of Auchailten where the socket still remains, and the other likely from Ballyogan, where the base of a cross is still visible in a field called Pairc-na-teampull, though no trace of a church exists there.

    Read the passage

    Inserted in the wall of the church-yard near the vestry are to he seen two very ancient crosses ( see illustration), said to have been brought to Graig by Father Broughall, P.P. One of them formerly stood at the old Church of Auchailten, where the socket still remains ; the other was brought, most probably from Bally ogan, where, in a field still called Pairc-na-teampull , the base of a cross is still to be seen. Notwithstanding its name, there is no trace of a church having ever stood there.

    In the Depositions preserved in Trinity College, Dublin, in which the details are set forth of a scheme for a general

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 206

11. Baltinglass Abbey founding grant confirmed by John, Earl of Morton

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1199

    John Earl of Morton (later King John) confirmed extensive land grants to Baltinglass Abbey, including townlands such as Rathban, extending across numerous local fords and boundaries. The grant included a salt-pit at Arklow among other lands.

    Read the passage

    John Earl of Morton (afterwards King John) confirmed the following grant of lands, &c., made to this Abbey, viz. : Valathimam and Yathiaridir, Ratha-Chiva, Mochan, and the townland of Raithbranaib (Rathban), extending from the ford of Mac Snull to the summit of Arda-Sellach, and so on to the fosse from the north part of Raithbranaib, thence to the top of Mount Cross-Cromn, and to Croidaniel, and from the fosse to the north of Macroadanley and to the ford of Comrae da Ushe ; also from the ford in Lochlaig, with the river of the said water, extending to the ford of Culamucca, thence to the ford of Inderi, and from that to the fosse of Nahelfressi, extending as far as bum Muked ; and the said Earl did, for himself, grant to this Abbey the lands of Teth in Noderan, Ross in Alinem, and Rodhart, with those of Cluan-mel-fige, Cartinamain, Kelcomch, Athargith, Kennanus and Teath, in Madaith ; also Kelcru, Thirconan, Kelnigdohey, Dun-Crinthin, and Carnabradan ; with Insiobreslein, * Magafin, and two other carucates of land, with a salt-pit at Arklow. — {Harris 2, p. 234.)

    a.d. 1163. Moylisa O’Leyn, Bishop and Abbot of Imleach Ivar, and Abbot of Belagh-Conglais, in Christo quievit. {Ann. Ult.)

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 132

    As the companion tells it

    You're passing through Baltinglass, in Wicklow. In 1199, John, Earl of Morton, who afterwards became King John, confirmed a grant of lands to the abbey here. The lands stretched from the ford of Mac Snull to the summit of Arda-Sellach, across numerous fords and fosses, and included townlands such as Rathban, Ross, and Cluan-mel-fige. John also granted two carucates of land with a salt-pit at Arklow. An earlier record notes that in 1163, Moylisa O'Leyn, Bishop and Abbot of Imleach Ivar and Abbot of Belagh-Conglais, died.

12. Bishop Doyle's residence at Olderrig, the 'Hermitage'

    Oldderrig · townland · Laois · 1823–1826

    Bishop Doyle resided at Olderrig in the parish of Killeshin, which he playfully styled his 'Hermitage,' until he removed to Braganza in 1826.

    Read the passage

    The humble chapel which preceded the present one, stood at the cross-roads of Clonmore, a short distance from the old church, on the road to Carlow. The site is marked on Cahill’s map of the Queen’s County, published in 1805. Opposite the site of the old chapel is, or rather was, the Spa of Killeshin, whose healing properties were learnedly set forth in a pamphlet on the subject, written by the late Dr. Francis Hayden of Carlow. The present Catholic Church was built some 65 years ago, as a monumental inscription set in its wall indicates: — “ D. 0. M. To the memory of the Rev. Michael McDonald, who, having erected this chapel, and improved by his labours and example the morals and piety of this parish, died in the 7th year of his ministry, and 32nd year of his age. This monument was erected by the Right Rev. Dr. Doyle, A.D. 1823.” Dr. Doyle resided at Olderrig in this parish at the time of the death of this young priest, to whose worth and holiness he paid this marked tribute. His lordship continued to occupy his Hermitage, as he playfully styled it, at Olderrig, until he removed to Braganza in 1826. Another priest lies buried at Killeshin, to whom a tablet has been erected with the following inscription : — “ Pray for the soul of the Rev. Michael Rafter, the faithful and zealous pastor of Graigue and Killeshin for seventeen years. He died January 18th, 1840, in the 44th year of his age. R.I.P.” The modern church is dedicated under the title of the Most Holy Cross, and has attached to it a Plenary Indulgence to be gained on the Feast of the Invention of the Most Holy Cross (3rd of May), or during its Octave (See Vol. I.,p. 316.) The Feast is celebrated with due solemnity every year on the Sunday within the Octave. The adjoining cemetery is tastefully laid out, and carefully kept. It contains several handsome monuments, many of them erected to the memory of deceased burghers of Carlow, with whom this has become a favourite place of interment.

    Sletty.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 236

13. Brigidine convent established at Abbeyleix, 1857

    Abbeyleix · town · Laois · 1857

    A community of nuns of the Order of St. Brigid was established at Abbeyleix in 1857, with a branch house later established at Ballyroan in the same parish.

    Read the passage

    Abbeyleix was at the Red Hill. It was maliciously destroyed under the following circumstances : — In the direction of Rosconnell, and just outside the bounds of the parish of Ballinakill, there is a holy well, called Lady’s well, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, to which the faithful resorted on the Patron day, the 15th of August. It happened on one of these occasions that a party of young aristocrats, conducted by Baron Knapton, son to Earl De Vesci, came here to amuse themselves with the spectacle. After a while, not content with looking on, they attempted some wanton interference with the females engaged in making their thurrus or pilgrimage round the holy well. This naturally aroused the indignation of the men, who interposed to protect them. The haughty young nobleman thought by mentioning who he was that he would awe the poor peasantry into subjection, but such was not the case, and so, after some rough usage, he and his companions were compelled to beat a retreat. They threatened in revenge to burn down the adjoining chapel of Ballyouskill, but having been foiled in their purpose, they carried it into effect by burning the chapel at Red Hill, instead. Some time after, and perhaps in reparation for the chapel that had been thus destroyed, Lord De Vesci gave a site and help towards the erection of the chapel in Old Abbeyleix, which was afterwards abandoned in consequence of the change in the position of the town, where a new one was built at the commencement of the present century. The present venerable pastor added the tower and spire, and also built the fine Church at Ballyroan. A community of nuns, of the Order of St. Brigid, was established at Abbeyleix, in 1857, which has a branch house at Ballyroan, in the same parish.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 56

14. Butler Monument to Viscount Galmoy

    Graiguenamanagh · townland · Kilkenny

    A handsome tablet in Graig church memorializing Edward, first Viscount Galmoy, and his wife Anne Butler, describing his noble virtues and public service.

    Read the passage

    The Butler Monument is a handsome and imposing tablet inserted in the wall of the Church. It was erected to the memory of Edward, first Viscount Galmoy, and his wife Anne Butler. Under the Armorial bearings is inscribed the motto : Non Fortior quam Justus. Then the titles of the deceased are set forth : “ Edvardus Butler, Eques Auratus, illmu3 ac nobmus, primus Vicecomes de Galmoyle, Dominus de Longrange, Barrowmonte, Balliogan, etc.” It describes him as of noble descent, upright, courteous, prudent, generous, hospitable, zealous for the true faith, a useful public servant, and the best of parents towards his many children, etc. The epitaph concludes with a request for prayers, and a reminder to the reader that he, too, shall soon die : — “ Bene illis precare viator , et te mortalem ac moriturum, cogita.”

    Several Priests lie interred at the Church of Graig, to whose memory monuments have been erected with the following inscriptions : —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 205

15. Carlow laid waste by famine, 1575

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1575

    According to the Four Masters, Carlow was laid waste by famine in 1575.

    Read the passage

    a.d. 1575. Carlow was laid waste by famine. (Four Masters.)

    a.d. 1577* Carlow sustained a long siege against Roger O’More, then in rebellion against Queen Elizabeth, and was at last obliged to surrender, when it was miserably plundered, and the inhabitants put to the sword. (Anth. Hib.)

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 37

16. Carlow seminary subscriptions drain diocesan priests

    Carlow · townland · Carlow

    Dr. Delany describes how the priests of the diocese were financially drained by past and ongoing subscriptions to the seminary in Carlow, which remained unfinished, unfurnished, and heavily indebted despite a growing rent obligation they had agreed to pay.

    Read the passage

    the present, in this Diocese for Lombard. In reality the priests are all perfectly drained by their past and, indeed, daily subscriptions to the seminary in Carlow, which is still not completely finished and quite unfurnished, very considerably indebted, besides the yearly growing rent they have generously agreed to pay. I must own I felt and looked, I am sure, on this account, unspeakably awkward, embarrassed, and pained, in moving at the present juncture another collection to them, which, I am sorry to observe, they instantly and peremptorily rejected as soon as hinted, so as to prevent me from daring to return, at least speedily to the charge. I spoke particularly of it to such as had their education in Lombard, but they were the very persons who raised the greatest outcry against the measure, setting, to a man, their faces against it in the most open and avowed manner. Dr. Walsh’s contemporaries, especially, and strangely, and, I believe, very unjustly, filled with unconquerable prejudices against him and all his undertakings, which they never failed to reprobate with a very unbecoming degree, indeed, of heat and acrimony, whenever I chanced them or hazard a word in their commendation, praiseworthy as they seem to be. I have too other ugly affairs on hands of a similar nature to cur6s, and with which I must take the liberty to acquaint your Grace by next post, as in spite of my endeavours to catch this day’s post, it has escaped me, and therefore I send this by an express to Castle Dermot, where I hope it will arrive timely enough to be forwarded this day to Dublin, interested as I am in receiving as speedy an answer as possible. I am in so great a hurry that I have scarce a moment to request your Grace would excuse, on that score, everything that needs it in this very hasty and blotted scrawl. All that is most respectful and kind, if you please, to your illustrious brethren on my part. Pray how are Dr. O’Reilly’s eyes, and when does Dr. Butler leave town? Not a word of a complaint from your Grace in Mr. O’Connor’s parish since his late lucky hit ; not a line from his Grace of Cashel since his accession to, &c.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 152

17. Castle of Ballyknockan, seat of Sir Thomas Colclough

    Ballyknockan · townland · Laois · 1598

    The castle of Ballyknockan, now reduced to very small ruined proportions, was in 1598 ranked among the chief castles of Queen's County and was the residence of Sir Thomas Colclough.

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    The ruin of the Castle of Ballyknockan is in this parish ; it is now reduced to very small proportions, but in the Description of Ireland, Anno 1598, and the Carew Gal., we find it then ranking amongst the chief castles in the Queen’s County, and the residence of Sir Thomas Colclough. Edward Brereton of Laghtiog, was one of the principal gentlemen of the Queen’s County at the close of the 16th century.

    Dunamase.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 269

18. Convent of St. Brigid founded at Mountrath, 1809

    Mountrath · town · Laois · 1809

    On 18 April 1809 the Convent of St. Brigid at Mountrath was founded, with three sisters travelling there from the mother house at Tullow; the Monastery of St. Patrick was established soon after.

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    On the 18th of April, 1809, the Convent of St. Brigid, at Mountrath, was founded, three sisters proceeding thither from the mother house at Tullow (Annals of Order), Soon after, the Monastery of St. Patrick was established. Both convent and monastery have now large communities, chiefly employed in carrying on the great work of Catholic education. At present the Sisters are engaged in erecting a fine imposing building for the accommodation of their numerous resident pupils.

    The church, erected by Dr. Delany, proved defective in the foundation; in consequence of this, the Rev. James Dunne, P.P., came to the determination of building a new church. The work was begun soon after his appointment to the charge of the parish in 1857, and he had the consolation of seeing it completed before his death in 1867. The extraordinary exertions made by Brother John, of the Mountrath Monastery, mainly contributed to the success of the undertaking. This zealous religious travelled through a great portion of North America, Australia, New Zealand, and California, soliciting alms for the purpose ; his exertions resulted in his being enabled to transmit the large sum of £4,000, over and above his expenses. The new church of Mountrath is one of the finest parochial churches in the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin. Several priests were interred in the former church ; through the pious care of a recent pastor, the preservation of the inscribed tablets which marked their last resting places, has been secured by their being set in the wall of the new church. They are as follows : —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 285

19. Death of St Torannan, abbot connected with Tullow

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 634

    St. Torannan, abbot of Bennchor (Bangor) and of Tulach-Foirtceirn (Tullow) in Leinster, and of Druim-Cliabh in Connacht, died in the year 634; his feast was celebrated on 12th June according to the Martyrology of Donegal.

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    St. Torannan, another of our Irish Saints, was connected with this place; his feast was celebrated on the 12th of June. At that day, the Martyrology of Donegal has the entry : “ Torannan, abbot of Bennchor, (Bangor, Co. Down), and of Tulach-Foirtceirn, in Leinster, and of Druim-Cliabh in Cairpre in Connacht, of the race Cairbre Riada, son of Conaire, son of Moghlamha.” The Feilire of Aengus, referring to him at the same date, has: ‘‘Torannan, lasting, deedful, over a wide shipful sea;” and the gloss in Leabhar Breacadds: “ i. e. Palladius, or My-Toren of Tulach Fortchirn in Ui-Felmada, and of Druim Cliab in Cairbre.” This Saint died in the year 634.

    A.D. 1050. Diarmaid Ua Cele, (now Kyley or Kealy), airchinneach of Tulach-Foirtcheirn and Achadh-abhall, (. Aghold ) died. (Four Masters).

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 365

20. Description of the ancient Damhliag ruins at Aghowle

    Aghowle · parish · Wicklow

    The old church of Aghowle, described by O'Donovan as one of the most curious churches he encountered, is a regular old Irish Damliag measuring 60 feet by 24 feet internally, matching the standard measurement of primatial Irish cathedrals.

    Read the passage

    place it is in the territory of Hy-Kinnsella ; and in the third place the traditional founder of the church is St. Finden. The old church of Achadh-abhall is one of the most curious I have seen yet in my rambles through Ireland. It is situated about 5 miles to the south-east of Tullow, and 8 miles west and by south, of Tinnahely. It is a regular old Irish Damliag or Teampull mor , measuring on the inside 60 feet in length and 24 in breadth, which was the regular measurement of the primatial Irish Cathedrals and principal Abbey Churches, according to the Book of Armagh, the Tripartite Life of St. Patrick, published by Colgan, and the Life of the same Saint preserved in the Book of Lismore.”

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 177

21. Destroyed monastery and steeple at Clonagh

    Clonagh · townland · Laois

    Sir Charles Coote records that a monastery formerly stood at Clonagh with a fine steeple, which was pulled down by a tenant of the land for the sake of its limestone; ruins with a curious arch remained visible at the time of his survey.

    Read the passage

    Due east of Old Court, at a distance of about half a mile, and with distinct traces of a roadway connecting both places, there is a burial-ground, now disused, in the townland of Clonagh. Sir Charles Coote makes the following reference to this place in his Statistical Survey of the Queen’s County : — “ There was formerly a monastery at Clonagh ; a fine steeple was erected here, and was pulled down by the barbarian who tenanted the ground, for the sake of the limestone of which it was built. The ruins of the monastery are yet to be seen, with the vestige of a

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 72

22. Discontinued Patron at Sandyford's Holy Well

    Sandyford · street · Dublin

    At Sandyford there is a Holy Well where a Patron was formerly held on 9th June, the feast of St. Columbkill, but the celebration was discontinued about 60 years before writing due to abuses.

    Read the passage

    At Sandyford, in this parish, there is a Holy Well, at which the Patron used to be held on the 9 th June, the feast of St. Columbkill; in consequence of some abuses, this celebration was discontinued, about 60 years ago.

    At Ballygobban, there is a remarkable Rath, near the extensive building known as Aughavanna Barracks.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 227

    As the companion tells it

    Along here at Sandyford there is a holy well where a patron was once held on the 9th of June, the feast of St. Columbkill. The celebration was discontinued about 60 years before the record was written, because of what the source calls abuses.

23. Domnach-Fiacc located near Clonmore and Aghold on the Carlow-Wicklow border

    Clonmore · townland · Carlow

    St Fiacc's first monastery, Domnach-Fiacc, was probably situated between Clonmore and Aghold in the parish of Clonmore, near the boundary of counties Carlow and Wicklow, where he remained many years before founding Sletty.

    Read the passage

    St. Fiacc was born about the year 437. He was of the Hy- Bairrache race, descendants of King Cahir-Mor. His father was twice married, first to a daughter of Crimthann, King of Hy-Kinncelach, by whom he had four sons, whose names have already been given ; and secondly, to the mother of St. Fiacc, who is said to have been a sister of Dubhtach, the poet. Dubhtach adopted Fiacc as his pupil whilst yet a youth. He became a Christian convert, like his master, but it would appear not for a considerable time after him, as we find him still a catechumen on the occasion of St. Patrick’s consultation with Dubhtach, about the materies of a bishop, when Fiacc was recommended for that office. Fiacc was then a widower with one son, Fiacra. St. Patrick, having “put the grade of a bishop on him,” made Fiacc the presents referred to above, and left with him the seven saintly companions there named. The place where St. Fiacc founded his first monastery was called after him, Domnach-Fiacc, and was probably situated between Clonmore and Aghold, in the parish of Clonmore, near the bounds of the counties of Carlow and Wicklow. Here he must have remained many years, as it is recorded in the Book of Armagh that he did not leave it till he had sent sixty of his disciples to heaven. Then an angel appeared, and notified to him that the place of his resurrection (the place where he should

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 239

24. Dr. Doyle's letter appointing Fr. Kinsella to Ballon

    Ballon · town · Carlow · 1825

    On the death of Fr. Conran in 1825, Bishop Doyle wrote to Fr. William Kinsella, then curate in the parish, expressing his intent to appoint him successor as Parish Priest of Ballon and planning to attend the funeral at Rathrush and Ballon.

    Read the passage

    Rev. William Kinsella succeeded. On the receipt of the intelligence of the death of Fr. Conran, Dr. Doyle wrote thus to Fr. Kinsella who had been curate in this parish : “ I shall endeavour to be at Rathrush on Wednesday evening; if this be not in my power, I hope to be in Ballon early on Thursday, to pay the last sad office to our departed friend. May the Lord grant him peace ! I suppose I need not tell you that I intend to appoint yourself to succeed Mr. Conran. I shall do so, God willing, without delay, and I can with truth assure you that I have not hitherto made any appointment more agreeable to my own feelings, and from which I anticipate more advantages to Religion. I only regret that the sphere of your exertions is somewhat confined, but in your present family circumstances it could not conveniently be fixed elsewhere.” Fr. Kinsella died, January 26th, 1872, and was interred at Rathoe, where a monument to his memory bears the following inscription : — “ Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. — Apoc. xiv. Pray for the soul of the Rev. William Kinsella. He laboured with patient and generous zeal in this parish for 52 years, the last 43 of which he was Parish Priest. When infirmities incident to old age no longer allowed his wonted exertions for his flock, he

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 115

25. Early monastery of Sruthair (Shrule) founded by St Mogoroc

    Shrule · townland · Laois · 492

    An early monastery known as Sruthair or Sruthaire-Guaire, now Shrule, is said to have been presided over by St Mogoroc, brother of St Canoe, who flourished about 492 and whose festival was kept on 23 December.

    Read the passage

    This was anciently a distinct parish, the church of which is still to be seen, in ruins, between those of Killabban and Sletty having an ancient burial-ground attached. The name is sometimes written Grangemonk ; and in the Inquisitions it is given as Monksgrange, alias Kilmagobbock. Within a short distance of the ruinous Church of Grange, there is another ancient cemetery and, most probably also, the site of a church. It immediately adjoins Shrule Castle, and is still occasionally used for interments ; the remaining tomb-stones, — the dates on which range from 1737, — show no inscription calling for notice. Sir Jonah Barrington, in his Personal Recollections, makes reference to this grave-yard. In this district and probably on this site, one of our earliest Monasteries stood ; it was known as that of Sruthair, (a word signifying a Stream) or Sruthaire-Guaire, now changed into Shrule. According to Archdall, who erroneously places it in the County of Wicklow, this Monastery was presided over by St. Mogoroc, the brother of St. Canoe, who flourished about the year 492 ; he was patron of the church of Derge, or Dergne, in Huidh-bruin-chualan. His festival was observed on the 23rd of December. It is entered in the Martyrology of Tallaght at that date : — “ Mogoroc Diergne.” Whether Sruthair be the same as the abbey of Dergne, Colgan

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 68

26. Father Mathew's temperance visit commemorated at Paulstown school

    Paulstown · town · Kilkenny · 1844

    A school-house at Paulstown bears an inscription commemorating the visit of Father Mathew to the parish and the benefits of his temperance ministry, with the school erected in 1844.

    Read the passage

    The adjoining school-house bears the subjoined inscription : “To perpetuate the remembrance of the visit of the good Father Mathew to this parish and of the benefits derived by us from his ministry of charity, this School house was erected. A.D. 1844.”

    Butler, Viscount Galmoy, to whom the possessions of the Abbey of Graig-na-managh were granted, was also Lord of Lowgrange, Barrowmount, &c. A branch of this family was settled at Paulstown. In the list of Confederate Catholics, 1647, Edward Butler, Viscount Galmoy, appears amongst the temporal Peers, and Pierce Butler, of Barrowmount, and Walter Butler of Paulstown, Baronet, amongst the Commons. Colonel Walter Butler of Paulstown, figures prominently in connection with the death of Wallenstein.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 307

27. Franciscan friar posing as Abbot of Duiske Monastery, Kilkenny

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1618

    A note from circa 1618 lists Melchier Ragged, a Franciscan friar living with his father in Kilkenny, who was reputed as Lord Abbot of the Monastery of Duiske in County Kilkenny.

    Read the passage

    Though the Abbey was suppressed, Abbots continued to be appointed. In a Note of the names of preestes, semynaries, fryers , etc., in the Citie of Kilkennie — circa 1618, appears the Item: “Melchier Ragged, a franciscan (sic) fryer, keepeth usually with his father, Richard of ye said citie, Alderman, and is reputed as Lo ; Abbot of the Monastery of Dawiske, within the county of Kilkennie.” And in the Spicilegium Ossoriense, Vol, JJ., p. 281, there is a letter addressed to Pro-

    o

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 197

28. Fr. David Byrne, Long-serving Parish Priest, Buried at Kilranelagh

    Kilranelagh · townland · Wicklow · 1704–1746

    Rev. David Byrne, ordained in 1674 and appointed parish priest of Rathvilly, Rahill, Hacketstown, Kiltegan and Kilranelagh, was said by tradition to have died in 1746 aged 96 and to be interred at Kilranelagh.

    Read the passage

    Rev. David Byrne appears in the Registry of 1704, as Parish Priest of Rathvilly, Rahill, part of the parish of Hacketstown, Kiltegan and Kilranelagh; he resided at Portrishin, was 54 years of age, was ordained in 1674, at Thomastown, Co. of Kilkenny, by Dr. James Phelan. His sureties were William Hughes of Monagher, in the said County, gent,, and John Nolan of Milltown, in said County, farmer. A Return of 1731 ( See Vol. /., p. 268,) gives Thos. . Byrne as the priest of Rathvilly. The tradition of the parish is that the Fr. Byrne of 1704, died in 1746, aged 96, and that he is interred at Kilranelagh.

    Rev. Daniel Murphy succeeded ; his tomb at Tinneclash records that he was P.P. of Rathvilly for 52 years, and died 5th of December, 1798, aged 102.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 334

29. Garryhill church also received chalice ransom for Earl of March, 1397

    Garryhill · townland · Carlow · 1397

    The old church at Drumphea, within the district of Garryhill, is believed to be the church of Garryhill to which, along with Myshall, the mother of the Earl of March presented chalices to ransom the body of her son killed at Kellistown in 1397.

    Read the passage

    The chapel-of-ease is placed here. It occupies an old church foundation ; within the enclosure of the burial-ground some portions of the old church still remain. Within the memory of those still living, the ruin was much more considerable ; from their description and from what survives of the walls, it appears to have been coeval with and alike in design to the old church now in ruins at Myshall. This church stood within the district known as Garryhill, or the Garqwil, and there can be hardly a doubt but that it was the church of Garryhill to which, and to that of Myshall, the mother of the Earl of March presented two chalices in ransom for the body of her son, killed in battle at Kellistown in 1397.

    St. Finian, of Clonard, “ the instructor of the Saints of Erin,,, was a native of the district of Myshall. He was, in his youth, one of the scholars of St. Fortchern of Killoughternane. He afterwards went to St. David of Wales, and on his return, founded the Monastery of Achadh Abhail, now Aghold, in the parish of Clonmore. Finally, he retired to Clonard.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 303

30. Grant of Baltinglass Abbey to Thomas Eustace, Viscount

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1541

    On 30th June, 33rd year of Henry VIII, a grant was made to Thomas Eustace, Viscount Baltinglass, of the Abbey with its possessions in capite, at an annual rent of £10 9s 7d Irish.

    Read the passage

    On 30th of June, 33rd of same reign, a Grant was made to Thomas Eustace, Viscount Baltinglass, of this Abbey, with its possessions, in capite, at the annual rent of £10 9s. 7d. Irish. — (Auditor- General.)

    An Inquisition, taken 23rd August, 1606, finds that the Abbot of this house was seized of 3 messuages and 40 acres of arable land of the great measure, in the Grange of Rossenalvan, annual value, besides reprises, 20s., and sundry other messuages, with 80 acres of arable in the townland of Rathargith, annual value, besides reprises, 40s. ; all in the County of Kildare. (Chief Remembrancer.) The chapel of Inchbrislan belonged to this Abbey. — (King, 415.)

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 137

31. Grant of Black Castle site to Lord Audley

    Leighlinbridge · town · Carlow · 1606

    By Patent Roll dated 20 July 1606, a grant was made to George Tutchett, Lord Audley, of the site of the Black Castle and the former Carmelite Friary at Leighlin Bridge, formerly part of the Ormonde estate.

    Read the passage

    From Patent Roll, dated 20th July, 1606, it appears that a grant was then made by the King to George Tutchett, Lord Audley, of the site, &c., of the Castle called Black Castle, within the precinct of the Friary of Leighlin Bridge; rent 13s. 4d. ; also the site, &c., of the late Monastery or Carmelite Friary of Leighlin Bridge, with all its messuages, cottages, lands, customs, and hereditaments, spiritual and temporal, — rent, £2 8s. 8d. Irish ; being parcel of the estate of Pierce, Earl of Ormonde, grandfather of Thomas, now Earl of Ormonde, who surrendered same to the Crown. To be held for ever in common soccage.

    In March, 1650, the Castle of Leighlin Bridge was taken by Colonel Hewson. “ Upon my march,” he writes, “ I received a letter from my lord President of Munster to haste up unto Colonel Reynolds near Leighlin Bridge, and either to take in some passage over the Barrow or prosecute Castlehaven. The latter was prevented by the enemy’s withdrawal. The former (to wit Leighlin Bridge,) I attempted, and I obtained it without the loss of one man. The articles on surrender thereof are herewith presented to you. The garrison gave a pass over the Barrow, and indeed the benefit you have thereby is very great, and the time about the taking of it was one day. When I came hither, my Lord President was gone back to my Lord Lieutenant about Thomastown, whither I despatched a letter to his Excellency, intimating the taking of Leighlin Bridge, and my march towards

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 19

32. Grant of Stradbally Friary Lands to Francis Cosby, 1592

    Stradbally · town · Laois · 1592

    On 18 August 1592 the Queen, being seized of the Stradbally friary and its extensive lands across many named townlands in Queen's County, granted them to Francis Cosby and his heirs to hold of the Castle of Maryborough by knight's service.

    Read the passage

    August 18th, 1592, the Queen being seized of this friary, and all its appurtenances, and also of a mill with a mill-race in Stradbally, and of the several castles, messuages, cottages, gardens, and orchards, with 345 acres of land in the townlands of Stradbally, Ballynowlan, Kylrorye, Ballerereader, Loghill Parck, Ballecolman, Ballemadock, Kilmarter, the Grange of Garremadock, Clonvenoak, Ballenvicar, Kylmogoo, Moyannoghe, Correill, Racreaghen, Clodust, Noghmald, Shanmollen, Ballemachtaubs, and Derebrock, all in the Queen’s County ; the same were granted to Francis Cosby and his heirs and assigns, to hold as of the Castle of Maryborough, in capite, by knight’s service or the 20th part of a knight’s fee, and at the annual rent of £17 6s. 3d. Irish money; they to find yearly nine English horsemen (Chief Remembrancer). 4th Dec., 1609, a new grant of these lands was made to Richard, son of Alexander Cosby, together with the townland or lordship of Timahoe. — (. Auditor-General ).

    Francis Cosby, whose memory is held in execration as the chief instigator and perpetrator of the massacre of Mullaghmast (see Vol. II., pp. 229, 316), came to Ireland in the reign of Queen Mary, and was, by Patent dated 10th Sept., 1558, appointed General of the Kerne of Leix, in which district he obtained extensive grants of the forfeited lands of the O’ Mores. O’Sullevan Beare, in his Catholic History of Ireland, relates that “Francis Cosby, Governor of Leix, and his son Alexander, raged with merciless fury against the Catholics of every class. . . . . He mostly resided at Stradbally, where in front of

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 338

33. Inquisition at Rathvilly details Baltinglass Abbey lands

    Rathvilly · town · Carlow · 1531

    An Inquisition taken at Raiville (Rathvilly) in the 23rd year of Henry VIII found Abbot John Galbally seized of the Abbey site including a castle, hall, dormitory, cellars, kitchen, granary, garden and orchard, plus extensive lands across many townlands.

    Read the passage

    By an Inquisition taken at Raiville ( Rathvilly ) die Mercurii prox. post festum Sti. Brendani, 23rd year of Henry VIII., the Abbot, John Gal bally, was found seized of the site, containing a castle, hall, dormitory, with two cellars, a chamber with a store beneath, a kitchen, granary, garden and orchard, and 24 messuages, 24 gardens, 24 acres of arable, 16 acres of pasture, 100 of wood, and a mill and water-course in Baltinglass, annual value, besides reprises, £3 3s. 4d. ; 16 acres of arable, 4 of pasture, and one of wood, in Grange- Golden, annual value, besides reprises, 5s. 4d. ; 5 messuages, 20 acres of arable, and 8 of pasture, in Kilmoreth, annual value, besides 5 reprises, 26s. 8d. ; 8 acres of arable, 8 of pasture, and 3 of moor, in Ladiestown, annual value, besides reprises, 2s. 8d. ; 16 acres of arable, and 4 of pasture, in Hilltonstown. alias Shiltonstown, annual value, besides reprises, 6s. 4d. ; a castle, 1 messuage, 32 acres of arable land, 4 of pasture, and 4 of moor in Slerath, annual value, besides reprises, 20s.; 14 acres of arable, 4 of pasture, and 4 of moor, in New Grange, annual value, besides reprises, 4s. 8d. ; 2 messuages, 16 acres of arable, 4 of pasture, and 4 of wood, in Cargyn ( Carrigeen ), annual value, besides reprises, 26s. 8d. ; 4 messuages, 56 acres of arable, 4 of meadow, 4 of pasture, and 8 of moor, in Taghnawran ( Tinoran ), annual value, besides reprises, 4s. 4d.; 1 messuage, 12 acres of arable, and 8 of pasture with the appurtenances, in Rahyn, annual value, besides reprises, 10s. ; 8 acres of arable, and 2 of mountain, in Ballybratna^he, annual value, besides reprises, 3s. lOd. ; 8 acres of arable in Newtown, annual value, besides reprises, 2s. 8d. ; 21 acres of arable, and 2 of wood, in Monkswood, annual value,

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 136

34. James II's Charter to Carlow, 1688

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1688

    James II granted a new Charter to the borough of Carlow on 24th February 1688, founded on a seizure of the franchises by decree of the Exchequer; it was soon declared void. Garret Quigley, merchant, was made Sovereign.

    Read the passage

    by a decree of the Exchequer, which, however, being soon after declared void, it became inoperative. By this Deed Garret Quigley, merchant, was constituted Sovereign,* and the following 24 were named Burgesses of the borough of Carlow: — Sir Laurence Esmond, Bart., (He was at the time High Sheriff of the Co. Carlow), Henry Berkeley, Esq., John Warren, Esq., Pierce Bryan, Esq., Major Charles Cavanagh, Ensign Callaghan McCallaghan, Francis Eustace, Esq., John Baggott, Esq., Edmond Jones, Esq., William Cooke, Esq., Patrick Wall, Esq., Hubert Kelly, Esq., Marcus Baggott, Esq., Oliver Grace, Esq., John Dwyer, Esq., John Grace, Gent., Pierce Byrne, Gent., Edmond Dwyer, Apothecary, John Browne, Gent., Edmond Carroll, Merchant, Thomas Keegan, Merchant, Henry Webber, Merchant, Thomas Chanders, Nailor, and Samuel Barrett, Gent. J ohn Quigley was at the same time appointed Town Clerk.

    M.P.s for the Borough of Carlow.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 41

35. Kilcrone cemetery and church founded by Virgin Croine Beg

    Kilcrone · townland · Cork · 540

    About a mile south of Clonmore in the townland of Killalongford lies a small disused cemetery called Kilcrone, the site of a little church founded around 540 by the Virgin Croine Beg, sister of Ainmire, King of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    About a mile southwards of Clonmore in a secluded pasturefield in the townland of Killalongford, is a small disused cemetery, called Kilcrone. This is the site of a little church, founded about the year 540, by the Virgin Croine Beg, sister of Ainmire, King of Ireland, 568. To the east, in the direction of Shillelagh, is St. Martin’s Well of Croneleigh, dedicated to St. Martin of Tours. — (McCall’s History of the Parish of Clonmore ; a brochure which has been freely used in compiling this Paper.) Fr. Shearman, Loca Pair. 393, believes that this

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 175

36. Kiltegan church site and priest's grave

    Kiltegan · townland · Wicklow · 1788

    The site of St. Tagan's church near Kiltegan village has disappeared but is marked by a graveyard containing an ancient stone vessel and the grave of Rev. Denis Doyle, who died in 1788 aged 40, commemorated by his sister Elizabeth Hebert.

    Read the passage

    The Rectory of Kyltegan was amongst the possessions of the nunnery of Grany, and was granted to Sir Anthony St. Leger, 4th of May, 34th of Henry VIII. (Auditor General). The name Kiltegan — i.e. “ the church of Tegan,” is supposed to be derived from St. Tacan, one of the seven companions whom St. Patrick left with St. Fiacc at Domnagh-Fiacc, or Minbeg, in the present parish of Clonmore. There is hardly anything known regarding this Saint; in the Martyrology of Tallaght, at 9th of September, is given a Saint Tecce : it is considered by Fr. Shearman, ( Loca Patr.p. 227,) that this entry refers to St. Tagan, and that he is the “ Tacan, illustrious pilgrim,” who is invoked in St. Moling’s poem, — the subsequent scene of whose labours was in Hy Crimmthanan, near the rock of Dunamase ; See p. 288. It is said that a Patron used to be celebrated at Kiltegan on the 15th of August. The site of St. Tagan’s church is at a short distance from the village ; the church has quite disappeared, but a grave-yard marks the spot where it stood, in which there is an ancient stone vessel ; here is the grave of a priest, with the following epitaph : — “ Erected by Elizabeth Hebert in memory of her dearly beloved brother, the Rev. Denis Doyle, who departed this life the 28th December, 1788, in the 40th year of his age. Most deservedly regretted by his Parishioners and relatives.” Tinneclash (“ the house of the trench,”) was the site of the Catholic chapel of the district before the building of the present church of Ticknock, some 60 years back. In the burial-ground some priests are interred, to whom

    352

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 330

37. Memorial cross to three priests in Baltinglass burial ground

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1807

    In the burial-ground at Baltinglass a large cross was erected to commemorate three priests interred there, including Rev. William Dooly who died 31st March 1807.

    Read the passage

    “ Pray for the soul of Rev. William Dooly, who departed this life, 31st of March, 1807.”

    Philip II. He was with his four brothers, convicted of high treason, and suffered a total confiscation of his estates, by a Statute emphatically called the Statute of Baltinglass, which declared any kind of inheritance forfeitable for high treason. O’Sullivan Beare ascribes the misfortunes which befel this family to their having, though Catholics, acquired and retained possession of the property of the Abbey of Baltinglass ; and he relates a vision in which this was foretold to Thomas, 1st Viscount: “Mirum est quod Rolando Eustatio Kilcullinnse Vicecomiti accidit. Is, cum alioquin fuisset Catholicus bonus et pius, tamen (ut accepi) Monasterium Ordinis JDivi Bernardi sibi adjudicavit : nec diu post per quietem vidit quendam ibi minitantem, et carmen Hibernicum referentem, cujus bsec est sententia. ‘Tua cupiditas invadendi possessiones Ecclesise relinquet in servitute tuos pagos, et faciet, ut tua strips pereat omnis, ut frondes ex alto prsecipitio cadentes.’ Id ita metro quoque nos protulimus : —

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 140

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Baltinglass in Wicklow, there is a burial ground where a large cross commemorates three priests laid to rest there. One of them was the Reverend William Dooly, who died on the 31st of March, 1807. The same town gives its name to a statute from an earlier time, when Philip Eustace and his four brothers were convicted of high treason and lost all their estates. The statute declared any inheritance forfeitable for high treason. O'Sullivan Beare wrote that the family's misfortunes came because, though they were Catholics, they had taken and kept the property of the Abbey of Baltinglass. He tells of a vision seen by Thomas, the first Viscount, in which a threatening figure appeared and spoke in Irish, warning that their greed for church lands would bring their people into servitude and cause their whole line to perish, like leaves falling from a high cliff.

38. New Abbey founded near Kilcullen Bridge by Sir Roland Eustace

    Kilcullen Bridge · bridge · Kildare · 1560

    Sir Roland Eustace, Baron of Portlester, founded the Franciscan Monastery of New Abbey near Kilcullen Bridge in 1560.

    Read the passage

    Thomas Eustace, Yiscount Baltinglass, above referred to, was descended from John Eustace, a Norman noble, who accompanied King Henry II. to Ireland, and who, with a grant of large possessions, was appointed Governor of the County of Kildare. His descendant, Sir Edward Eustace, Knt., was constituted, early in the 15th century, Lord Deputy to Richard, Duke of York. His son, Sir Roland Eustace, was created, in 1454, Baron of Portlester, and a Knight of St. George of the Pale. This Sir Roland founded, in 1560, the Franciscan Monastery of New Abbey, near Kilcullen Bridge. An ancestor of his had founded, about a century before, the Dominican Convent of Naas, under the invocation of St. Eustachius. Sir Roland was succeeded by his nephew, Sir Thomas Eustace, Knt., who was created Baron of Kilcullen in 1541, and Yiscount Baltinglass in the year following, being then possessed of one-half of the County of Kildare, with large possessions in the Counties of Meath, Wicklow, and Dublin. His son, Rowland, 2nd Yiscount, filled, for 38 years, the offices of Lord Treasurer and Lord Deputy. He was succeeded by his eldest son, James, 3rd Yiscount ; he, having resisted the ordinance of Queen Elizabeth which required that no more Parliaments should be held in Ireland, but that the nation should be cessed for the support of the State at the will of the Deputy, was committed

    * Since the above was written, the old castellated residence of the Abbots of Baltinglass has been demolished by the Rev. Mr. Ussher, the Protestant Incumbent. It is a subject of additional regret that one bearing the name of our distinguished Irish antiquary should be responsible for this act.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 138

39. New borough charter for Carlow, 1674

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1674

    A new Charter for the Borough of Carlow was obtained from Charles II in 1674, establishing a Corporation styled the Sovereign, Free Burgesses and Commonalty, with Robert Browne as first Sovereign.

    Read the passage

    In 1674, a new Charter for the Borough of Carlow was obtained on petition from Charles II. Under this Charter the Corporation was styled “The Sovereign, Free Burgesses and Commonalty of the Borough of Catherlagh,” and consisted of a Sovereign, 12 free Burgesses, and a commonalty, assisted by a town-clerk, 2 Sergeants at mace, a weigh-master of butter, and a bell-man. The Charter thus proceeds : — “ To the intent that it may appear to after times that this new corporation was at first composed of honest, discreet men, we make, nominate, and constitute Bobert Browne, Esq., to be the first and modern sovereign of the said borough,* to continue in the same office until the feast of St. Michae] the Archangel next, after the date of these presents ; and we, by these presents ordain that the said Bobert Browne, before he take upon him to execute the said place of sovereign, do take the oaths of supremacy established by Act of

    Parliament, 2 d. Elizab ., and the oath of allegiance, etc

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 41

40. New Catholic Corporation granted to Old Leighlin, 1688

    Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow · 1688

    King James II granted a new Charter to Old Leighlin on 4th July 1688 empowering it to send members to Parliament, with a new Corporation composed mostly of Catholics.

    Read the passage

    A new Charter was granted to Old Leighlin by King James II., on the 4th of July, 1688, empowering it to send members to Parliament. The following is a list of those who constituted the new Corporation, most of whom, if not all, were Catholics: —

    Sovereign — Nicholas Keally. Town Clerk — James Hackett. Burgesses, 28.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 10

41. O'Brien's hosting and conference at the Fort in Leix, 1553

    Maryborough · townland · Laois · 1553

    In 1553 O'Brien (Donnell) made a hosting into Leinster and held a conference with the English at the Fort in Leix, parting with them in peace.

    Read the passage

    A.D. 1553. “ A hosting was made by O’Brien (Donnell) into Leinster; and he had a conference with the English at the Fort in Leix , and he parted with them in peace.” — Id.

    In 1556, an Act of Parliament was passed ( 3rd and 4 th Philip and Mary) disposing of the countries of Leix, Glanmalire, Irrey, Sleumarge, and Offaly, “ which were of late wholly possessed by the O’Mores, the O’Conors, the O’Dempseys, and other rebels, and now, by the industrious travail of the Earl of Sussex, Lord Deputy, brought again into the possession of their majesties.” This statute enacted inter alia , “ that the new Fort in Leise be, from henceforth for ever, called and named Mary Burgh.” This town still continued to bear its previous Irish name of Port-Laoigbise, i.e., Fort-Leix, and to be known as such, up to the commencement of the present century.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 252

42. Old church, abbey and castle ruins at Haroldstown

    Haroldstown · townland · Carlow

    In Haroldstown townland stand the foundation remains of an old church about 51 feet long, along with the site of an abbey and a castle nearby; local tradition, uncertain, links the monks to Tullow and suggests an Augustinian connection.

    Read the passage

    The old Parish of Haroldstown is bounded on the north and west by Rathvilly ; on the south by Liscolman and Clonmore ; and on the east by Hacketstown proper. It is said by the inhabitants that the original name of Haroldstown was Ballinros ( the town of the wood), and that Harold , from whom it received the present name, was a soldier who got the place, as a reward for his services, after the battle of the Boyne. In the townland of Haroldstown is to be seen the foundation of an old church, in a grave-yard ; in one place about 3 feet in height of the old wall remains. It was about 51 feet long and 18 feet broad. It is noticed in the Name Book, which adds — “ Site of Abbey and and site of Castle, a little to the west of church ruins.” None of the Abbey now remains, nor is tradition very clear as to its former existence. An old man on the spot told us he heard it said that the monks of the place had connection with Tullow. If this be true, it shows that they were Augustinians. The walls of the Castle were in existence in the memory of man — 10 feet high in parts ; at present there is nothing but what might have been part of the external wall surrounding the budding. The site is called the High Haggard ; it is said that

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 226

43. Old church and graveyard of Cremorgan, burial place of the Moores

    Cremorgan · townland · Laois

    The parish of Kilcolmanbrock contains only the townland of Cremorgan, on which stands a small old church and graveyard within the demesne of Lewis Moore, enclosed as a burial place of the Moores of Cremorgan. Genealogical evidence suggests Moore was of the O'More sept, descended from a shopkeeper of Leighlin Bridge.

    Read the passage

    This small parish, lying to the south of Timahoe, is supposed to be so called from a Saint Colman, brock , or freckled, being added, it is said, to distinguish him from another saint of the same name, surnamed ban, or fair, the Patron of the adjoining Parish of Kilcolmanbane, in the present union of Maryborough, which see. This parish contains only one townland, namely Cremorgan, on which there is a small old church and grave-yard, within the demesne of Lewis Moore, Esq. Some think he is not of the ancient O’Mores of Leix, but a branch of the Drogheda family. I can believe, however, that he is of the Sept of O’More, as I have the testimony of the late Laurence Byrne of Falybeg, and of old Walsh of Timahoe, that his name is Laoiseach O’Mordha. Both of these old men knew his grandfather, who was a shop-keeper at Leighlin Bridge, and who, being a sensible industrious man, saved money and left his heirs a handsome property. This Lewis Moore is, however, not the head of the family, for all acknowledge that More O’Ferrall is the present chief of the O’Mordhas of Leix. — (O' Donovan, Ord. Surv. Letter). It appears impossible to decide as to which of the Saints Colman (radically the same as Colum or Columba) this parish was named from. O’Clery’s Calendar commemorates about sixty, and Colgan mentions that there were nearly one hundred and thirty Irish saints bearing this name to be found in our Calendars. — (Acta S . Columbce). The old church, which is completely mantled with ivy, is very narrow in proportion to its length, and displays no architectural feature calling for remark. It is enclosed as a burial-place of the Moores of Cremorgan. The name of the parish is generally found in the contracted form of Kilclonbrock ; in the Return of Dr. Ram, 1612, it is described as Rectoria sen Capella de Kilclonebrocke. Father O’ Hanlon refers to this place under date the 14th of April.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 354

44. Old church ruin of St. Brigid at Tomard, Tullocreen

    Boolyrathornan or Tomard · townland · Carlow

    In the townland of Tomard the ruined east gable of an old church dedicated to St. Brigid remains, with a well dedicated to the saint nearby and a burial-ground surrounding the ruin.

    Read the passage

    bounded, N. by the parish of Cloydagh ; E. by the Barrow ; S. by the parishes of Old Leighlin and Wells; and W. by the Queen’s County and Co. Kilkenny. Cormac, King of Leinster, resigned his Crown in 555, in order to become a monk at Bangor. Before doing so, he gave St. Comgall, abbot of that Monastery, three cahers or towns in his territory, viz. : Ceatherlach (Carlow), Foibren, and Ardcrena; Fr. Shearman thinks this latter to be the present Tullocreen. In the townland of Tomard, ( Tuaim-ard , “ the high tumulus,”) the east gable of an old Church remains, having a window, the upper part of which is destroyed, about 8 inches wide on the outside. The Church appears to have been 50 feet long and 22J feet broad. The north side-wall remains ; the west gable is levelled with the ground ; the south wall is much ruined, a portion, in which was a window, stands attached to the east gable. The door- way was on the south side, towards the west. The Church bears the name of St. Brigid; and a well, dedicated to that Saint, lies a short distance from the ruin. Two Baths and a Moat, (locally so called,) are shown in the adjoining townland of Bathornan, a name which signifies “ the Bath of the little Carn.” The Moat was, it seems, much larger, and has been in a great degree destroyed. A burial-ground surrounds the ruinous Church of St. Brigid.

    Clonmelsh.

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45. Piers Butler becomes first resident of Duiske Abbey

    Graiguenamanagh · townland · Kilkenny · 1597

    Piers Fitz-Thomas Butler, on reaching his majority in 1597, became the first person to reside in the Abbey of Duiske and became known as Piers Butler of the Abbey, also holding a second residence at Low-Grange.

    Read the passage

    his majority in 1597. Piers was the first to reside in the Abbey, and became known as Piers Butler of the Abbey ; he had a second residence at Low-Grange. Sir Edward, his son, on 2nd April, 1618, received a grant of the Abbey of Duiske, with divers other lands in the counties of Kilkenny, Wexford, and Carlow, which were erected into the manor of Graigduiske, with power to hold there a Thursday Market, and two fairs on the feasts of St. Barnabas, and SS. Simon and Jude. He, by Privy Seal, dated Oxford, 31st January, 1645, and by Patent, 16th May, 1646, was created Viscount of Galmoy, in the said county ; he married Anne Butler, daughter of the second Lord Mountgarrett, by whom he had two sons, Piers and Thomas ; and two daughters, one of whom was married to — Masterson, of County Wexford, Esq., and the other to Thomas Davells, of Killeshin, in the Queen’s County, Esq. In 1641 Lord Galmoy took part with his fellow Catholics in the affairs of the Confederation of Kilkenny ; he sat as a Peer, whilst his son, Piers of Barrowmount, was a member of the Commons. He was an Ormondist, and for The Peace. He lost his property on the triumph of Cromwell, emigrated about 1649, and died in 1653. His tomb and that of his wife still exists, and is inserted in the wall of the vestry of the present Church. A silver chalice is still in use in the Church of Graig, beautifully wrought, and bearing the inscription : —

    “ Nobma. Domina Anna Butler,

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 196

46. Priests buried at Clonmore chapel graveyard

    Clonmore · townland · Carlow · 1774

    The graveyard attached to the modern Chapel of Clonmore contains tombs of several priests including Rev. Felix Nolan, described as a friend to the poor and a father to the orphan, who died in 1774.

    Read the passage

    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.”

    “ Here lyeth ye body of ye Revd. Thomas Holmes, who departed Sept. 8th, 1781, aged 58 years. Lord have mercy on his soul.”

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 173

47. Ruined church of Killabban with Norman chancel-arch

    Killabban · townland · Laois

    At Kiliabban stand the ruins of an ancient church with nave and chancel, a 15-foot Norman chancel-arch, a round-headed west door, and a long lancet window at the east end. Fragments of a stone coffin lie scattered within the walls.

    Read the passage

    At Kiliabban are the ruins of an ancient Church, consisting of nave and chancel ; nave, 45 feet by 22; chancel, 28 feet by 22. The chancel-arch remains ; it is 15 feet wide and Norman in style. The entrance-door is in the west gable, it is 3 feet in width, and is round-headed. There is a long lancet window in the east-end, part of the stone casing of which remains, and shows it to have been well- wrought. There appears to be a gable campanile at the west end, but the ruin is so completely covered with luxuriant ivy that it is impossible to trace its architectural features satisfactorily. The fragments of a stone coffin are scattered about within the walls of the church. In Boll of Beceipts, Easter term a.d. 1286, John, Clerk of Kiliabban,

    72

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 67

48. Second chapel at Kiltennill consecrated by Archbishop Byrne in 1709

    Ballinvally and Kiltennell · townland · Carlow · 1709

    An addition to the church at Kiltennill was erected at the start of the 18th century, with a slab recording that Captain Edmund Byrne built the chapel and Doctor Edmund Byrne, Archbishop of Dublin, consecrated it in 1709.

    Read the passage

    At the east end, an addition was erected at the commencement of the last century, and was 28 feet long by 15 in width ; this also is in ruins. A slab is let into the wall, having armorial bearings carved on it, with the motto In Domino confido, and underneath, the inscription : “ Captain Edmund Byrne erected this chapel, and Doctor Edmund Byrne, Archbishop of Dublin, consecrated the same, 1709.”

    Within the walls lies an ancient Baptismal font, round, and pierced in the centre ; and near it is the stone top of a doublelancet window.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 155

49. Sisters of St Brigid establish new house at Mountrath, 1809

    Mountrath · town · Laois · 1809

    In 1809 three Sisters of St Brigid were sent from Tullow to establish a new house of the order at Mountrath, expanding the fledgling congregation's work in education and religious instruction.

    Read the passage

    of the Visitation Order, by St. Francis de Sales, recommending them to study them carefully and adopt such portions of them as should be compatible with their duties, promising at the same time that he would help them in the selection. He placed the new Institute under the special protection of the glorious Saint Brigid, Patroness of Ireland and the tutelary saint of the diocese. The six Sisters lived in community, were clothed in a simple and modest secular garb, led retired and recollected lives, and practised great self-denial. They were soon joined by others whom their virtue attracted. In 1809, three Sisters were sent to establish a new House of the Order at Mountrath. The Bishop drew up the rules and constitutions of the Institute, according to its requirements, but before he could fully complete the work so dear to his heart by obtaining its approval at Rome, he was summoned to his eternal reward on the 9th of July, 1814. The Right Rev. Dr. Doyle evinced the deepest interest in the Congregation, encouraging the Sisters in their labours and assisting them constantly by his paternal advice and instructions. He revised the Rule, gave the Religious Habit to the Sisters, and added some new constitutions regarding Boarding-schools for young ladies, to open which the Sisters had obtained his permission. In 1845, the Right Rev. Dr. Haly when making his official visit to the Eternal City, brought with him a copy of the Rules and Constitutions for approval, which was duly accorded and notified in a communication from Cardinal Franzoni, Prefect of Propaganda Fide. Rev. Thomas Nolan, who had been Administrator at Tullow, on his appointment to the pastoral charge of Abbeyleix, applied for and obtained a foundation of the Sisterhood for his parish. This community has since established a Branch House at Ballyroan, in the same parish. On the 27th of April, four Sisters left Tullow to found a House at Goresbridge, Co. Kilkenny, where there is now a flourishing community. In the same parish, at Paulstown, an humble Sisterhood had been established by two pious females so far back as 1830. They were afterwards joined by others, and lived a community life, without, however, taking formal vows. There they taught school and devoted themselves to other works of piety, under the sanction of Dr. Doyle, and with the co-operation of the P.P., the Rev. James Maher. This House has since been aggregated to the Convent of Goresbridge, and the two original founders have lived to become professed Sisters of the Order of St. Brigid. Dr. Murray, Bishop of Maitland, Australia, on the occasion of a visit paid to Ireland in 1883, asked for a community of the Order for his distant diocese ; in compliance with which, six Sisters have since left Mountrath for Coonamble, N.S.W., where they have established the first Convent of St. Brigid under the Southern Cross. In 1885, Dr. Crane, another Australian prelate, obtained a community of four Sisters from Tullow, who sailed for Echuca, Diocese of Sandhurst, Victoria, on the Feast of the Epiphany, 1886. — Communicated .

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 391

50. Site of Augustinian Priory now a burial ground

    Tullow · town · Carlow

    The site of the Augustinian Priory at Tullow is now used as a place of interment with no traces remaining of the buildings; a large boulder in the burial-ground has a socket cut as if for a cross, and the head of an ancient Irish cross found nearby is preserved over a well.

    Read the passage

    The site of the Augustinian Priory is now used as a place of interment. There are no traces remaining of the buildings. A large boulder in the centre of the burial-ground has a socket cut in it as if for a cross. The head of an ancient Irish cross, 'which was found in an adjoining field, is preserved in the enclosure, being placed over a well, for which latter the claim of holiness does not appear to be made. Two priests lie interred here, over whose graves the following inscriptions appear : —

    “ Here lieth the body of the Rev. Thomas Byrne who departed this life Sept. 7th, 1746, aged 70.”

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 366

51. Site of the church at Ballintemple demolished for farm buildings

    Ballintemple · townland · Carlow

    The site of the old church at Ballintemple, near Ballintemple house and the river Slaney, was known within living memory; its walls were levelled by the grandfather of Sir Thomas Butler and the materials used for farm buildings.

    Read the passage

    This name, signifying “ the townland of the church,” sufficiently proves that a church formerly stood here ; the site is still well known, and the field in which it stood is still called the Church field. It was situated near Ballintemple house, and adjoining the river Slaney. Portions of the walls were standing within the memory of persons still living, who state, moreover, that the walls were levelled by the grandfather of the present Sir Thomas Butler, and the materials used by him in the erection of farm buildings. This was the church of the old parochial division of Pobble Drum, a word which signifies “ the congregation ridge.”

    Ardoyne.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 373

52. St Fintan's traditional birthplace at Clonkeen church ruins

    Clonkeen · townland · Laois

    The ruins of Clonkeen's ancient parochial church still exist, divided into what appears to be nave and chancel with a solid dividing wall. Colgan records that St Fintan, one of Ireland's greatest saints, was born in Clonkeen of Leix.

    Read the passage

    represent nave and chancel, except that there is a solid wall separating them apparently as old as the rest of the building, and only pierced by a window high up. Dimensions: nave 45 feet by 22 feet; chancel (if it may be called so), 25 feet by 18 feet. Colgan speaks of St. Fintan having been born in Clonkeen of Leix ; if so, then this place may lay claim to the honour of having given birth to one of our greatest Irish Saints.

    The following particulars are given by Archdall in Monast. Hib., in reference to Cluainchaoin (Clonkeen).

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 101

53. St Lazerian's burial and cathedral dedication at Leighlin

    Leighlinbridge · town · Carlow

    According to the proper office for St Lazerian, he died on Easter day and was buried at Leighlin in the cathedral church dedicated to him under his name, where he is venerated as principal patron of the diocese.

    Read the passage

    Domini vi'nea laboribus, et Zelo Domus Dei consumptus, bbiit ipso P&schatis festo, pro quo rite celebrando tarn strbniie decertaverat. Sepultus est Leithlinae, in Ecclbsia cathedrali, quse Deo sub ejus nbmine dicata conspicitur. Ea in Dicecbsi ut prseci'puus Patronus cblitur, ejusque festum concilium Dublini, ineunte saeculo decimo quarto habitum per totam provlnciam sub ritu duplici celebrari decrevit.

    Eymnus ad Laudes.

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54. Succession of ownership of Luggacurren estate

    Luggacurren · townland · Laois

    Luggacurren estate passed from FitzGerald (Short Garrett) to Sir Walter Whelan, then to Daniel O'Byrne, whose descendants became baronets living at Timogue Castle, before the property was eventually sold and purchased by the Marquis of Lansdowne.

    Read the passage

    with him. The O’Mores avenged O’Kelly by slaying FitzGerald and burning his castle. FitzGerald, the subsequent owner of Luggacurren, called Short Garrett, sold the estate to Sir Walter Whelan, who again sold it to Daniel O’Byrne. This Daniel O’Byrne was son of Loughlin O’Byrue of Ballentlea, near Bed Cross, in the County of Wicklow. Loughlin had two sons, Denis and Daniel. Denis inherited the estate of Ballentlea ; Daniel, who was a clothier, amassed a large fortune, chiefly by army contracts. Daniel’s son, Gregory, was created a baronet, and lived at Timogue Castle. Sir John, grandson to Sir Gregory, married a daughter of Sir Peter Leyster of Pointon, Cheshire, whose son, Sir Peter, assumed the name of Leyster. During his minority the Irish property was sold, and other property purchased in England. The Marquis of Lansdowne became the purchaser, in whose family it still remains. — ( O'Byrne .)

    For further interesting and amusing particulars regarding this branch of the O’Byrnes, see information supplied to O’Donovan from MS. written by O’Byrne of Fallaghbeg, who was born in 1716. — Note to Four Masters, ad ann. 1578.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 123

55. Teach-Mochua burned in 1142

    Timahoe · townland · Laois · 1142

    The monastery of Teach-Mochua at Timahoe was burned in the year 1142 according to the Four Masters.

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    a.d. 1142. Teach-Mochua was burned. {Four Masters).

    The Monastery was founded, probably by the O’Mores, but of its further history there appears to be no written record. A community existed here as late as the year 1650, when Hewson, after dismantling Dunamase, overran the Queers County, and among other acts of cruelty and devastation, murdered all the friars of this Abbey, and demolished their house. The place where they were massacred is still called “ the road of murder.” — {Ord. Surv. Letter).

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 347

56. Vicar General's House of Refuge at Rathvilly

    Rathvilly · town · Carlow · 1612

    The 1612 report noted that Luke Archer, Vicar General of Leighlin, resided mainly in Kilkenny but on entering County Carlow used to resort to the house of Edmond McTirielogh at Rathvilly.

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    In report made by Dr. Ram, Protestant Bishop of Leighlin, 1st Sept., 1612, ( See Vol. p. 240,) “ Sir (i.e. Mr.) Molrony McGrew, priest, is named, as “ keeping here and there in and about the parish of Rathvilly, but in no certain place as I can learn, but as his occasions lead him.” The same report states that “ Luke Archer, Vicar General of the Diocese of Leighlin, keeping for the most part at Kilkenny; at his coming into the County of Carlow resorting unto the house of Edmond McTirielogh of Rathvilly.”

    Rev. David Byrne appears in the Registry of 1704, as Parish Priest of Rathvilly, Rahill, part of the parish of Hacketstown, Kiltegan and Kilranelagh; he resided at Portrishin, was 54 years of age, was ordained in 1674, at Thomastown, Co. of Kilkenny, by Dr. James Phelan. His sureties were William Hughes of Monagher, in the said County, gent,, and John Nolan of Milltown, in said County, farmer. A Return of 1731 ( See Vol. /., p. 268,) gives Thos. . Byrne as the priest of Rathvilly. The tradition of the parish is that the Fr. Byrne of 1704, died in 1746, aged 96, and that he is interred at Kilranelagh.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 334

57. Abbeyleix founded with Baltinglass monks

    Abbeyleix · town · Laois · 1183

    The Abbey of Leix (Abbeyleix) was founded by Corcheger O'More in 1183, filled with Cistercian monks sent from the Abbey of Baltinglass.

    Read the passage

    a.d. 1183. The Abbey of Leix {Abbeyleix) was founded by Corcheger O’More, who filled this house with Cistertian monks from the Abbey of Baltinglass. {Ware.)

    A.D. 1185. Albin O’Molloy was Abbot. About the middle of Lent, in this year, John Cumin, Archbishop of Dublin, held a Provincial Synod in Dublin, in the Church of the Blessed Trinity {Christ’s Church), where he himself the first day preached of the Sacraments of the Church, and the next day after, Albin O’Molloy, Abbot of Baltinglass (afterwards Bishop

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 132

58. Ancient church ruin and 1786 coin hoard at Ballylinan

    Ballylynan · town · Laois · 1786

    Near Ballylinan village stand the ruins of an ancient church about 40 by 16 feet with a bell-turret. In June 1786 an earthen urn containing many curious coins was dug up in a field beside these ruins.

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    In the immediate vicinity of this village are the ruins of an ancient church, measuring about 40 feet in length, by 16 feet in width. The western gable, which is nearly perfect, is pierced by a small stone-cased window, 2 feet high by 1 in breadth, and terminates in a bell-turret with opes for two bells. Portions of the side walls remain, and also the east gable in which there is a deeply-splayed window ; another window may be traced about mid-way in the south wall. No remarkable inscriptions are observable in the adjoining graveyard. In June, 1786, an earthen urn was dug up in a field beside these ruins, containing many curious coins ; these are referred to at page 56 note.

    Ballylehane.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 70

59. Baltinglass supplies monks to found Abbey of Maur

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1142

    The Abbey of Maur (De Fonte Vivo) in Co. Cork was founded by Dermot MacCormac MacCarthy, King of Desmond, who supplied it with Cistercians from Baltinglass Abbey.

    Read the passage

    a.d. 1142. The Abbey of Maur, or JDe Fonte Vivo, Co. Cork? was founded, they say, by Dermot MacCormac (MacCarthy, King of Desmond, son of Cormac, the friend of St. Malachy. Lanigan IV., 248), who supplied it with Cistertians from the Abbey of Baltinglass. ( Ware.)

    a.d. 1183. The Abbey of Leix {Abbeyleix) was founded by Corcheger O’More, who filled this house with Cistertian monks from the Abbey of Baltinglass. {Ware.)

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 132

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Baltinglass, this is the town whose Cistercian monks were sent south to found the Abbey of Maur in County Cork in 1142. Dermot MacCormac MacCarthy, King of Desmond, established that house and supplied it with monks from the Abbey of Baltinglass.

60. Battle relics found at Milltown near Ballylehane engagement

    Milltown · townland · Laois

    At Milltown, near the square-towered Milltown Castle (Ballyvuilling), many brass rings and heads of halberts were found, taken as tokens of the engagement of Ballylehane.

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    In Gough’s Camden it is remarked that “ at Milltown have been found many brass rings and heads of halberts, tokens of the engagement of Ballylehane.” The Grace family, the descendants of Raymond le Gros, have been settled at Shanganagh, — re-named from them, Gracefield, — since the 17th century. — (See chapter on Arles). Amongst the P.Ps. registered in 1704, as then in the Queen’s County, we meet with John Brady, residing at Shanganagb, in the Barony of Ballyadams, aged 28, P.P. of Tankardstown, ordained in 1697 at Cork, by John Baptist Sleyne, Bishop of Cork, and he had as sureties, Richard Keating of Shanganagh-more, Farmer, and Edward Keating of the same, Farmer. It appears probable that Fr. Brady acted as chaplain to the Grace family, and that he entered himself as P.P. of Tankardstown to evade the terms of the penal law, which forbade any but P.Ps. to remain in the country.

    Succession of Pastors.

    Internet Archive collectionsrelat03come, Chapter 125