Name: The Diocese of Meath: Ancient and Modern (vol. 1)
Author: Anthony Cogan (1826–1872)

Massacre of Maelbryde MacRonan and the people of Kells on Crom Dubh's Sunday

Kells · town · Meath · 1117

In 1117 Maelbryde MacRonan, coarb of Kells, was killed along with many people of Kells by Hugh O'Ruark and the O'Briuins, on the night of Domhnach Chroim Duibh, a day linked to the pagan chieftain Crom Dubh's conversion by St. Patrick.

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1117. Maelbryde MacRonan, coarb of Kells, was killed, and the people of Kells slaughtered along with him, by Hugh O'Ruark and the O'Briuins, on the night of Domhnach Chroim Duibh (i.e. Black Crom's Sunday, the last Sunday in summer ; Crom Dubh, chieftain of Umhal, was converted by St. Patrick on that day. See O'Donovan's notes to the Four Masters, page 1004).
1 127. Maelmaire O'Godain, noble priest and learned senior of Kells, died.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 47

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kells, it is worth knowing that in 1117 this place saw a massacre. Maelbryde MacRonan, the coarb of Kells, was killed, and the people of Kells slaughtered along with him, by Hugh O'Ruark and the O'Briuins. It happened on the night of Domhnach Chroim Duibh, Black Crom's Sunday, the last Sunday in summer, a day linked to the conversion of the pagan chieftain Crom Dubh by St. Patrick.

Mass killing of protected persons in the barony of Duleek

Duleek · town · Meath · 1642

Captain Morroe caused about one hundred protected men, women and children to be put to death in the barony of Dooleek, and Lieutenant John Tench separately killed a seventy-year-old protected person near Dooleek.

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tucked to death in the town of Steedalte. Lieutenant Ponsonby put two aged protected persons to death at Downastone, each of them about eighty years old. Captain Morroe caused about one hundred protected persons, men, women, and children, to be put to death in the barony of Dooleek ; and Lieutenant John Tench killed a protected person seventy years old, near Dooleek. Mr. Patrick White, son and heir of Mr. White, of Clangill, in protection, was taken out of his bed, and knocked on the head by Lieutenant Luaton of the garrison of Trim. Many thousands of the poor inhabitants of this county tcere destroyed in the firs, as those in the county of Dublin, and the rest for the most part perished with famine.
Borlase* describes the death and funeral of the monster Sir Charles Coote, in the following words :

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 198

Miraculous relics of St. Cassanus venerated at Donaghmore

Donaghmore · townland · Meath

St. Cassanus's relics were held in the highest veneration at Donaghmore and were remarkable for great miracles, such that scarcely any visitors departed without recovering health or receiving other gifts of grace.

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" While the man of God was baptizing the people called Luaignii, at a place where the church of Domnach-mor, in the plain of Echnach, stands at this day, he called to him his disciple Cassanus,* and committed to him the care of the church recently erected there, preadmonishing him, and with prophetic mouth predicting, that he might expect that to be the place of his resurrection, and that the church committed to his care would always remain diminutive in size and structure, but great and celebrated in honour and veneration. The event has proved this prophecy to be a true one, for St. Cassanus's relics are there to be seen in the highest veneration among the people, remarkable for great miracles, so that scarcely any of the visitors go away without recovering health, or receiving other gifts of grace sought for"— Tr. Th., p. 130.
The original church has long since disappeared, and on its site was erected, in the twelfth or thirteenth century, a parish church, the western end and belfry of which still stand.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 95

Peace guaranteed with the bell of St. Fechin

Fore · townland · Westmeath · 1143

In 1143 the Abbot of Fore, bearing the bell of St. Fechin, acted as a surety and guarantee of peace between Terlagh O'Connor, King of Connaught, and Morrogh O'Melaghlin, King of Meath.

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1143. The Abbot of Fore, with the bell of St. Fechin, was, amongst other ecclesiastics and relics, a surety and guarantee of peace and concord between Terlagh O'Connor, King of Connaught, and Morrogh O'Melaghlin, King of Mcath.
1163. Gillachiarain Ua Draighnen, successor of Fechin, died.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 63

Prince Dagobert of Austrasia educated at Slane Abbey

Slane · townland · Meath · 653

In 653 the young King Dagobert of Austrasia, shorn as a monk and rendered unfit for the throne, was banished to Ireland and received into the Abbey of Slane, where he was educated for twenty years before returning to France to resume his reign; a tradition of this still existed among the people of Slane.

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years, was taken by Grimoald, mayor of the palace, and by his directions was shorn as a monk, rendered unfit to hold the reins of government, and banished to Ireland. Archdall adds, that Dagobert was received into the Abbey of Slane ; that he received an education proper for the enjoyment of a throne ; that he spent twenty years in Slane, when he was recalled into France, and replaced in his government. There is no doubt a tradition still exists amongst the people of Slane as to the truth of this statement. In the Four Masters and our Monasticons we have the following . —
" 512. St. Erk, Bishop of Lilcach and of Fearta-fear-Feig, by the side of Sidhe-Truim, to the west, died on the second day of November. His age was four- score and ten years when he departed.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 60

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is where a remarkable exile once unfolded. In 653, the young King Dagobert of Austrasia was seized by Grimoald, mayor of the palace, shorn as a monk, and banished to Ireland, where he was received into the Abbey of Slane. He spent twenty years being educated here, fitted once more for a throne, before being recalled to France to resume his reign. A tradition of this still lived among the people of Slane.

Reverence for horizontal tombstone at Donaghmore used in burial rites

Donaghmore · townland · Meath

In the body of the church at Donaghmore there is a horizontal tombstone held in great reverence by the people, on which coffins are placed and the 'De Profundis' chanted before burial. Beneath it is buried Rev. William Killen.

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The churchyard of Donaghmore has many attractions for the antiquarian and the tourist. At the entrance there is the pedestal of the large stone crossf which formerly stood here. In the body of the church there is a horizontal tombstone, which is held in great reverence by the people. At interments the coffin is placed on this stone, and the " De Profundis" chanted previous to burial. Underneath sleeps the Rev. William Killen.J He was born in the parish of Ballyboggan, studied in France, and was ordained in April, 178(i, by the late Dr. Plunkett, Bishop of Meath. He officiated as Catholic Curate in Navan for many years, and in 1 802 was appointed Pastor of Skryne. He resigned his parish in 1804, owing to declining health, returned to Navan, and died in September of that year. He was a most eminent preacher in the Irish and English languages, and discharged
• Donaghmore, in course of time, became parcel of the estate of St. Thomas's Abbey, Dublin. In the reign of James the First, the rectory of Donaghmore— the rent of which was £20 13s. 4d., Irish — was granted to Richard Netterville, of Corballis.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 96

St. Kienan founds the first stone church at Duleek

Duleek · town · Meath · 472

St. Kienan, consecrated Bishop around 472 by St. Patrick, founded the church and abbey of Duleek, built of stone and lime cement, considered among the first such edifices erected in Ireland and giving the place its name Damleagh (house of stone).

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In the Office of St. Kienan, quoted in Harris's Ware,* we read "that St. Kienan built a church of stone in this place (Duleek); and that from thence ittook the nameof Damleagh (house of stone) ; for that before this time the churches of Ireland were built of wattles and boards". St. Kienan was held in such esteem by St. Patrick as to have received from him a present of his own copy of the Gospels. This fact is thus chronicled in the Annals of Tiglternach: " A.D. 490. The rest of St. Cianan of Duleek. It is to him Patrick gave his Gospels'. From a topographical account of Meath, written in 1682, it appears that this very copy was then preserved in the neighbourhood of Duleek, and Dr. Petriet assures us that this venerable monument is probably at present in the library of Trinity College, Dublin. The Calendar of Cashel, a most respectable and trustworthy authority, written in the eleventh century, states that St. Kienan, of Damliag (Duleek), wrote a life of St. Patrick. The words are " Sanctus Kienanus de Damliag, filiusSednae. — HujusSancti Kienani remanet incorruptum et illaesum corpus. — Scripsit vitam Sancti Patritii". The Four Masters place his death at 488. " Cianan, Bishop of Doimhliag (Duleek), died".
It is very remarkable that, although there were many Daimhliags (stone churches) in Ireland, this one, of which

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 36

Warrant issued for arrest of Fr. Ferrall in 1798

Kilbride · townland · Meath · 1798

Early in 1798 a warrant was issued for the arrest of Father Ferrall of Kilbride and Greenogue, reportedly due to his sympathy for the popular cause, forcing him to flee until the disturbances subsided.

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The Rev. Patrick Ferrall succeeded. He had been curate in Navan for several years under Dr. Plunkett, and after his appointment to Dunamore, lost no time in communicating a fresh impetus to religion and education. The old chapel of Kilbride was already crumbling into ruin, and the worthy pastor having procured a site from a Protestant family named Brassington, erected the present chapel of Kiibride ; the iron cross of which, in 1798, formed a target for the soldiers.* Early in that memorable year a warrant was issued for the arrest of Father Ferrall, in consequence, it is said, of his deep sympathy for the cause of the people. He left the neighbourhood until the storm blew over, and the parish was in the interim administered by Rev. Christopher Halligan. At the close of 1798 the reverend pastor returned, and on the 12th of April, 1801, he diedf of fever caught in the discharge of his duties. He was a zealous priest and a stern uncompromising patriot. He was beloved by all who knew him for his many excellent qualities, and there are few sleeping in their graves held in holier or more grateful reverence. He was buried to the east of the old church of Greenogue, where a simple unornamented stone marks his resting place.
The Rev. Patrick Lynn succeeded. He was appointed on the day after the death of Father Ferrall, and resigned on the 15th of the same month.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 244

260 People Sheltering in the Oratory of Trevet Burned by Danes

Trevet · townland · Meath · 848

In 848 the Danes burned the oratory of Trevet near Dunshaughlin while 260 people were sheltering inside, demonstrating the considerable size these wooden oratories could reach.

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" 848. They (the Danes) also burned the Dertech of Trevet, within which were 260 persons".
The praise which St. Bernard, in his life of St. Malachy, bestows on the Derthech of Bangor, proves that they were not devoid of ornament. They were usually kept very white, as appears from a passage in the Leabhar Brfac regarding the mystical signification of the colours in the vestments of a priest.*

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 42

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Trevet, in 848, the Danes burned the oratory here while 260 people were sheltering inside. These wooden churches could be large, and they were not plain. St. Bernard praised the oratory of Bangor, and old records say they were usually kept very white.

Burial custom at Archdeacon John Plunkett's tomb in Cortown

Cortown · townland · Meath · 1760–1769

Archdeacon John Plunkett was buried in Cortown churchyard beneath a large, uninscribed horizontal tomb. A local burial custom persisted whereby coffins were placed upon this stone and the De Profundis chanted before interment.

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The Very Rev. John Plunkett* succeeded. He was Archdeacon of Meath, and a most respectable ecclesiastic. He died on the 14th of January, 17ti , and was buried in the churchyard of Cortown. A large, uninscribed, horizontal tomb has been placed over his remains, and to this day the coffins are deposited on the stone, and the De Profandis chanted previous to interment.
The Very Rev. Thomas Flood succeeded. He was a native of the parish, studied on the Continent, as did all the priests at that time, and was remarkable for prudence and charity. He was archdeacon of Meath, and took an active part in the organization of the diocese under the indefatigable Dr. Plunkett. He died of dropsy on the 23rd of July, 1790,f universally regretted, and was buried in the abbey churchyard of Kells.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 144

Collapse of the Mudwall Chapel at Leighsbrook, Navan

near Leighsbrook · street · Meath · 1772

About 1772, the mudwall thatched Catholic chapel at Leighsbrook, Navan, collapsed on Christmas night, leaving the parishioners without a place of worship the following morning.

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The Rev. Christopher Fleming succeeded. He was curate for many years under Dr MacEgan, and, after his death, became vicar- general § of the diocese of Meath. About the year 1772, the mudwall thatched chapel of Leighsbrook crumbled and fell on Christmas night, and on the following morning the parishioners found themselves without a place of worship. For many months after this the Holy Sacrifice was offered up in a sentry box, which was procured from the cavalry barracks ; and, under this temporary shelter, in a yard off Trimgate Street, the priest officiated, while the people knelt on the bare ground, with no other roof but the
* A paper of Dr. Pagan's, in my possession.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Leighsbrook stood the mudwall thatched Catholic chapel that collapsed on Christmas night, around 1772. The parishioners arrived the next morning to find they had no place to worship. The priest, Reverend Christopher Fleming, then said Mass for many months in a sentry box borrowed from the cavalry barracks, set up in a yard off Trimgate Street. The people knelt on the bare ground, with no roof but the sky.

Death and burial of Dr. John Jones, curate of Navan, in Bective chapel

Bective · townland · Meath · 1797–1832

Dr. John Jones, born in the parish of Bective in 1797, studied at Maynooth and Rome, and died of fever caught in the discharge of his duties on 12 January 1832. He was buried amid the wails of the poor in the chapel of Bective, commemorated by a marble slab.

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Irish College in Rome, where he took out the degree of Doctor of Divinity with applause. He returned to Ireland about the close of 182ri, and officiated as curate in Navan with great zeal and ability. He died of fever, caught in the discharge of his sacred duties, on the 12th of January, 1832, and was buried, amidst the wails of the poor and the unfeigned grief of all, in the chapel of Bective. A marble slab commemorates him thus :
On January 12th, 1832,

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 93

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Bective, a marble slab in the chapel marks the grave of Dr. John Jones. Born in this parish in 1797, he studied at Maynooth and Rome, where he took his Doctor of Divinity with applause, then returned to serve as curate in Navan. He died of fever caught in the discharge of his sacred duties on 12 January 1832, and was buried, amidst the wails of the poor and the unfeigned grief of all, in the chapel of Bective.

De Lacy's castle at Trim burned by his own deputy

Trim · town · Meath · 1173

In 1173 a military fort or castle was erected at Trim by De Lacy, but his deputy Hugh Tyrrell set fire to it in De Lacy's absence upon the approach of Roderick O'Connor, King of Connaught; it was later rebuilt by Tyrrell.

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After the English Invasion, Trim became one of the principal strongholds of the Pale, and parliaments were frequently held in its castles or monastic halls. In 1173, a military fort or castle was erected here by De Lacy, to which Hugh Tyrrell, his deputy, set fire in his absence, on the approach of Roderick O'Connor, King of Connaught. After the departure of the "Irish enemy", and previous to De Lacy's return from England, this castle was rebuilt by Tyrrell. In 1210, King John dwelt for some time at Trim. In 1220, the present castle of Trim was built by William Peppard, lord of Tabor. In 1263, the Dominican abbey of Trim was founded by Geoifry de Geneville, or de Joinville, a nobleman of Champagne, who had married Maud de Lacy, and in 1273, after his return from the Crusades, Sir Geoffry was appointed Lord Justice of Ireland.
In 1308, on the feast of SS. Simon and Jude, he resigned the lordship of Meath to his grand-daughter, Joan, and her husband, Roger Mortimer, became a monk in the Dominican abbey of Trim, and in 1314, on the 19th of October, he died, and was interred in,the cemetery of his monastery.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 49

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, you are in one of the principal strongholds of the Pale after the English invasion. In 1173 De Lacy erected a military castle here, but his deputy Hugh Tyrrell set fire to it in De Lacy's absence when Roderick O'Connor, King of Connaught, approached. Tyrrell rebuilt the castle after what the source calls the Irish enemy departed and before De Lacy returned from England. King John dwelt at Trim in 1210, and the present castle was built in 1220 by William Peppard, lord of Tabor. The Dominican abbey was founded in 1263 by Geoffry de Geneville, a nobleman of Champagne who had married Maud de Lacy. After his return from the Crusades he was appointed Lord Justice of Ireland in 1273. In 1308, on the feast of Saints Simon and Jude, he resigned the lordship of Meath to his grand-daughter Joan and her husband Roger Mortimer, became a monk in the Dominican abbey, and died on the 19th of October 1314, buried in the cemetery of his monastery.

Donaghpatrick town swept away, land turned to sheepwalk

Donaghpatrick · townland · Meath

A flourishing town once stood at Donaghpatrick on the banks of the Blackwater, but both church and town were later destroyed, with the land converted into a vast sheepwalk under the modern system of political economy.

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After the Anglo-Norman invasion Donaghpatrick became a parish church.* A flourishing town was pleasantly located here on the banks of the Blackwater. The church has been long since uprooted, and a Protestant edifice erected on its site. The town, too, has been swept away, and the country converted into a vast sheepwalk. Such is our modern system of political economy.
In Bishop Montgomery's report, the rectory of Donaghpatrick was valued at twenty marks — the church was then in repair, but the chancel in ruin.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 97

First stone church in Ireland built at Duleek

Duleek · town · Meath

Duleek was the site of the first stone church built in Ireland, and its schools once rivalled the great literary centres of Armagh, Clonard, Clonmacnoise, Lismore, and Bangor.

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The antiquarian will remember that Duleek was the seat of an ancient diocese ; that the first stone church built in Ireland was erected there ; that its schools rivalled for many years the great literary retreats of Armagh, Clonard, Clonmacnoise, Lismore, and Bangor ; and that for six hundred years an uninterrupted succession of bishops ruled here, to whose memory our annalists pay a deserving tribute. Nor will it be forgotten that Duleek was a district of crosses, churches, and monasteries ; that it had anciently a round tower ; that the relics of St. Kienan and other saints were preserved here up to a late period ; and that the Book of the Gospels, which belonged to St. Patrick, was committed to the care of this church. The pilgrim who visits Duleek will remember that the Danes frequently plundered this place ; that the body of Brian Boroimhe, after being stricken down at Clontarf in the moment of victory, was waked in
22 DIOCESK OF DULEEK.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 35

Frederick Lucas's tenant-right speech at Slane, 1852

Slane · townland · Meath · 1852

In 1852 Frederick Lucas, advocate of Irish rights and defender of the liberties of the Church, delivered one of his most eloquent speeches at a great tenant-right meeting held in Slane.

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During the agitation for Emancipation and Repeal of the Union, and in all the struggles for civil and religious freedom, Slane has been ever true to the national cause In 1840, Father Mathew preached in Slane, and administered the temperance pledge to vast numbers for three days. In 1852, the late and lamented Frederick Lucas — the faithful and fearless advocate of Irish rights — the able and uncompromising defender of the liberties of the Church — made, at a great tenant-right meeting in Slane, one of his most eloquent and telling speeches.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 177

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in 1852, Frederick Lucas made one of his most eloquent speeches at a great tenant-right meeting. He was described as a faithful and fearless advocate of Irish rights and an uncompromising defender of the liberties of the Church. Slane had a history of standing with the national cause through the struggles for Emancipation and Repeal of the Union, and Father Mathew had preached temperance here in 1840.

Geoffrey de Geneville Enters and is Buried at the Dominican Friary

Trim · town · Meath · 1308–1314

In 1308 Geoffrey de Geneville resigned the lordship of Meath and entered the Dominican friary at Trim as a friar; he died in 1314 and was interred there among the Friars Preachers.

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1308. Geoffrey de Geneville, resigning the possession of the lordship of Meath to the Lord Roger de Mortimer and his wife, the rightful heir, daughter of Sir Peter, son of Geoffrey de Geneville, he entered himself a friar in this monastery on the morrow after the feast of St. Edward the Archbishop (Pembridge).
1314. The Lord Geoffrey de Geneville died on the 21st of October, and was interred here in his order of Friars Preachers (Pembridge).

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 188

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, you are near the site of the Dominican friary where Geoffrey de Geneville spent his final years. In 1308 he resigned the lordship of Meath to Roger de Mortimer and his wife, the rightful heir, and entered the friary as a friar. He died on the 21st of October 1314 and was buried here among the Friars Preachers.

Henry II grants the land of Meath to Hugh de Lacy

Meath · county · Meath · 1172

After the Anglo-Norman invasion, King Henry II granted the land of Meath with its appurtenances to Hugh de Lacy, to be held by the service of fifty knights, in as full a manner as Murchard Hy-Melaghlin had held it.

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" Henry, by the grace of God, King of England, Duke of Normandy and Aquitaine, and Earl of Anjou, to the Archbishops, Bishops, Abbots, Earls, Barons, Justices, and to all his Ministers and faithful subjects, French, English, and Irish, of all his dominions, greeting : Know ye, that I have given and granted, and by this my charter confirmed unto Hugh de Lacy, in consideration of his services, the land of Meath, with the appurtenances : to have and to hold of me and my heirs, to him and his heirs, by the service of fifty knights, in as full and ample manner as Murchard Hy-Melaghlin held it, or any other person before him or after him. And as an addition I give to him all fees, which he owes or shall owe to me about Duvelin, while he is my bailiff, to do me service in my city of Duvelin. Wherefore I will and strictly command, that the said Hugh and his heirs shall enjoy the same land, and shall hold all the liberties and free customs which I have or may have therein, by the aforesaid service, from me and my heirs well and peaceably, freely, quietly, and honourably, in wood and plain, in meadows and pastures, in waters and mills, in warrens and ponds, in fishings and huntings, in ways and paths, in seaports and all other places and things appertaining to the said land, with all liberties which I have therein or can grant or confirm to him by this my charter. Witness Earl Richard, son of Gilbert, William de Braosa, etc., at Weisford".
King John confirmed this grant to Walter de Lacy, the son of Hugh, in the ninth year of his reign. The Lacys made extensive grants of land in the principality of Meath,' to the Petits. Fitzhenrys, Nangles, Tuites, dela Chappelles, de Constantines, de Feipos, de Nugents, de Missets, de Hoses (Husseys), Dullards, Flemings, etc. ; and as the old Irish nobility were driven from their inheritances, their lands were divided amongst Anglo-Norman adventurers, and thus a new class of men was subsidized, the future lords of the

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 25

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Meath, you are passing through a county that was once a single grant, handed by a king to one man. In 1172, after the Anglo-Norman invasion, Henry II, King of England, Duke of Normandy and Aquitaine, and Earl of Anjou, gave the land of Meath to Hugh de Lacy, in consideration of his services. The charter ran to archbishops, bishops, abbots, earls, barons, justices, and all his ministers and faithful subjects, French, English, and Irish. Hugh was to hold the land of the king and his heirs, by the service of fifty knights, in as full a manner as Murchard Hy-Melaghlin had held it, or any other person before him or after him. Henry added all fees which Hugh owed or should owe about Duvelin, while he served as the king's bailiff in that city. The charter commanded that Hugh and his heirs should enjoy the land and hold all liberties and free customs, in wood and plain, in meadows and pastures, in waters and mills, in warrens and ponds, in fishings and huntings, in ways and paths, in seaports and all places appertaining to the land. The charter was witnessed by Earl Richard, son of Gilbert, William de Braosa, and others, at Weisford. King John later confirmed the grant to Walter de Lacy, Hugh's son, in the ninth year of his reign. The Lacys then made extensive grants across Meath to the Petits, Fitzhenrys, Nangles, Tuites, dela Chappelles, de Constantines, de Feipos, de Nugents, de Missets, de Hoses or Husseys, Dullards, Flemings, and others. As the old Irish nobility were driven from their inheritances, their lands were divided among Anglo-Norman adventurers, and a new class of men became the future lords of the country.

Inscription and iconography of the Duleek High Cross

Duleek · town · Meath · 1599–1601

The Duleek cross bears carved figures of Christ, angels, saints, and bishops including St. Peter, St. Patrick, and St. Kienan, the first Bishop of Duleek, symbolizing ecclesiastical succession. An inscription records that it was built by Jenet Dowdall for herself and her husband William Bathe in 1601.

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" This cross was Builded by Jenet Dowdall, Wife to William Bathe, of Athcarne, Justice of Her Majesties (Queen Elizabeth) Court of Common Plees, for Him and Her. Ano 1601. He deceased the 15th of Oc., 1599. Buried in the Church of Duleek. Whose Soules I pray God take to His mercie".
Another cross, still more massive, stands still by the wayside facing the entrance to Annsbrook, in the parish of Duleek.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 129

Knights of Milo de Cogan Plunder Duleek, Slain in Revenge

Duleek · town · Meath · 1171

In 1171 Duleek was plundered by the Knights of Milo de Cogan, and some of them were slain the following day by the Danes of Dublin, still Christians, in revenge for the wrong done to St. Cianan's foundation.

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1171. Duleek was plundered this year by the Knights of Milo de Cogan ; and some of them were slain on the following day by the Danes of Dublin in revenge of Cianan. (The Danes were then Christians.)
1182. About this year Hugh de Lacy erected two monasteries in Meath for the Regular Canons of St. Augustine. One of these establishments was founded at Colpe, near the mouth of the Boyne, which de Lacy made a Cell to the Priory of Lhanthony in Monmouthshire ; the other was erected at Duleek, which he made a Cell to Lhanthony, near Gloucester. Sir James Ware speaks of the Cell of Duleek as a new foundation, and altogether distinct from the Monastery of St. Kienan. This Cell seems finally to have absorbed much, if not all, of the church property wherewith St. Kienan's Abbey was originally endowed. In the year 121^7, the seventh year of the reign of Edward the First, a license was granted to this cell or abbey to elect an abbot, the said office having been vacant for upwards of thirty years. In course of time this abbey became possessed of immense property, all of which, to the number of several thousands of acres in East Meath, West Meath, and county Dublin, together with tithes and rectories, were confiscated and granted to Sir Gerald Moore".

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 44

Patrick White knocked on the head by Lieutenant Luaton at Trim

Trim · town · Meath · 1642

Mr Patrick White, son and heir of Mr White of Clangill, though under protection, was taken from his bed and killed by Lieutenant Luaton of the garrison of Trim.

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tucked to death in the town of Steedalte. Lieutenant Ponsonby put two aged protected persons to death at Downastone, each of them about eighty years old. Captain Morroe caused about one hundred protected persons, men, women, and children, to be put to death in the barony of Dooleek ; and Lieutenant John Tench killed a protected person seventy years old, near Dooleek. Mr. Patrick White, son and heir of Mr. White, of Clangill, in protection, was taken out of his bed, and knocked on the head by Lieutenant Luaton of the garrison of Trim. Many thousands of the poor inhabitants of this county tcere destroyed in the firs, as those in the county of Dublin, and the rest for the most part perished with famine.
Borlase* describes the death and funeral of the monster Sir Charles Coote, in the following words :

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 198

As the companion tells it

Trim is the town you're passing through now. In 1642, Mr Patrick White, son and heir of Mr White of Clangill, was under protection, but Lieutenant Luaton of the garrison of Trim took him from his bed and knocked him on the head. He was one of many thousands of the poor inhabitants of this county destroyed in those years, the rest perishing mostly with famine.

Slaying of Gearr-an-Chogaidh at Dunshaughlin attributed to miracle

Dunshaughlin · town · Meath · 1026

In 1026 Gearr-an-Chogaidh committed a great depredation at Dunshaughlin, and was slain the following day along with his two brothers by Muireadhach-na-Ceile in his own house, an event attributed to the miracle of God and Seachnall.

Read the passage

1026. A great depredation was committed by Gearr-an- Chogaidh (i.e. the short man of the war) at Dunshaughlin, and Gearr-an-Chogaidh himself was slain on the following day, and his two brothers along with him — namely, Etigen and Gillamaith, by Muireadhach-na-Ceile in his own house. This happened through the miracle of God and Seachnall.
1027. Dunchadh, successor of Seachnall, the most distinguished wise man of the Irish, died at Coloin* (Cologne, where there was a celebrated Irish monastery^.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 56

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Dunshaughlin in Meath. In 1026 a man called Gearr-an-Chogaidh, the short man of the war, committed a great depredation here. The very next day he and his two brothers, Etigen and Gilla-maith, were slain by Muireadhach-na-Ceile in his own house. The record says this happened through the miracle of God and Seachnall.

Surrender of Bective Abbey at the Dissolution

Bective · townland · Meath · 1541

On 31 July, in the thirty-fourth year of Henry VIII, the abbot of Bective Abbey surrendered the abbey along with its church, hall, cloister, chambers, extensive arable and pasture lands, a water mill, and a fishing weir on the River Boyne. The abbot of Bective had held the unusual privilege of sitting as a baron in parliament.

Read the passage

July 31st, and thirty-fourth of King Henry Eighth, the abbot surrendered this abbey, being then seized of the same, also of a church, hall, cloister, with certain chambers and other buildings, together with two hundred and five acres of arable land, seven of meadow, and thirty-three of pasture, in the townland of Bectiff, being the demesne land of the abbey, and a water mill and fishing weir on the river Boyne, all of the annual value, besides reprises, of £19 6s. Sd. ; five messuages, five cottages, two hundred and twenty acres of arable land, and five of meadow, with the appurtenances, in the Grange of Bectiff, of the annual value, besides all reprises, of £7 13s. 4d. ; four messuages, three cottages, one hundred and twenty acres of arable land, and four and a half of meadow, in the townland of Ballgyll, of the annual
27A

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 224

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, on the 31st of July 1541, in the thirty-fourth year of King Henry the Eighth, the abbot of Bective Abbey surrendered it all. He gave up the church, the hall, the cloister, and the chambers, along with 205 acres of arable land, 7 of meadow, and 33 of pasture, plus a water mill and a fishing weir on the River Boyne. The lands in the Grange of Bective and in Balgyll went too, bringing the total value to roughly £27 a year. This was no ordinary abbot. He had held the unusual privilege of sitting as a baron in parliament, a rank few churchmen in Ireland could claim. When he signed the surrender, that privilege went with the stone walls and the fishing weir and the fields, all of it passing to the Crown.

The ancient baptismal font of Clonard

Clonard · town · Meath · 1175–1862

All that remains of Clonard today is a stone trough, a carved head over the church tower door, and a remarkable baptismal font of grey limestone carved with scenes including the Flight into Egypt and the Baptism in the Jordan, dating from after the 1175 rebuilding.

Read the passage

" It is one of the finest, and, perhaps of its kind, one of the oldest in Ireland, and being of very hard, compact, gray limestone, or marble, is still in most wonderful preservation. It is three feet high, and stands on a square pedestal, the upper portion of which is highly ornamented with floral decorations, in eight compartments, and divided by a moulding from the basin, which formed out of a separate stone, the lower part of which corresponds in the number of its sides with the upper part of the shaft ; but four of the panels contain figures of angels, the remaining ones being filled with the representations of trees or shrubs. The basin is octagonal in shape, two feet one inch in diameter, and highly sculptured externally, with figures in relief representing the Flight into Egypt, the Baptism in the Jordan, St. Fiuian, St. Peter, and various grotesque figures of monks of the Augustinian Order ; which latter show that it was carved
* Boyne and Blackwater, pp. 64, 65.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 123

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Clonard in Meath, what survives from its ancient past is remarkably little: a stone trough, a carved head over the church tower door, and a baptismal font of grey limestone that is one of the finest and perhaps oldest of its kind in Ireland. The font dates from after the rebuilding of the monastery here around 1175. It stands three feet high on a square pedestal ornamented with floral work in eight compartments. The octagonal basin, two feet one inch across, is carved in relief with the Flight into Egypt, the Baptism in the Jordan, St. Fiuian, St. Peter, and grotesque figures of Augustinian monks. The stone is so hard and compact that it remains, as the old account puts it, in "most wonderful preservation." For a town that was once a great centre of learning, this font carries nearly all that is left to see.

The Ivy-Clad Ruined Church of Killeen

Killeen · townland · Meath

The deserted church of Killeen is described as one of the most beautiful ruins in the diocese of Meath, owing its origin to the Plunkett family and standing near the stronghold founded by de Lacy. It is quadrangular with a large choir-arch, a chancel and nave of substantial dimensions, and an old circular baptismal font still preserved.

Read the passage

If there be any deserted sanctuary in the diocese of Meath — if there be any holy relic of a by-gone age, which in its ruin and desolation impresses the beholder with ancient religious splendour, and awakens hallowed memories, that temple is unquestionably the ivy-clad church of Killeen.* Situated near the magnificent stronghold founded by de Lacy, owing its origin and its gorgeous decorations to the Catholic munificence of the house of Plunkett, it carries us back through centuries of gloom to the ages of faith, and speaks to the heart of how the good old lords of Killeen, in days gone by, loved the glory and beauty of God's house. The church is quadrangular, separated into sanctuary and nave by a choir-arch of immense dimensions. The chancel is forty-five feet and a half internally, by nineteen feet ten inches. The choir-arch is four feet three and a half inches in depth, and is of great height and width. The nave measures fifty-five internally, by twenty-one feet nine inches. The old baptismal font, still here, has an aperture and pedestal. The bowl is circular, and measures one foot nine inches in diameter. The whole edifice wears a magnificent and venerable aspect, and although roofless and deserted, is still, owing to the laudable care of the Killeen family, in a wonderful degree of preservation.
TOMBS.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 212

Threat to destroy the pilgrimage shrine of Our Lady of Trim

Trim · town · Meath · 1538

A rumour spread among the Irish that Archbishop Brown intended to pull down the shrine of Our Lady of Trim along with other pilgrimage sites such as the Holy Cross, reflecting the Reformation's assault on venerated Catholic shrines.

Read the passage

" . . . . There goithe a commen brewte amonges the Irish men, that I intende to ploke downe Our Lady of Tryme, with other places of pilgramages, as the Holy Crosse and souch like; which indeade I never attempted, although my conscience wolde right well serve me to oppresse soach ydolles".
The following articles were drawn up by Brown, on which the Bishop of Heath's witness was to be interrogated : J

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, this town held a pilgrimage shrine to Our Lady that drew the faithful in medieval times. In 1538 a rumour spread among the Irish that Archbishop Brown meant to pull it down, along with the Holy Cross and other pilgrimage sites. Brown denied attempting it, but wrote that his conscience would "right well serve me to oppresse soach ydolles."

Trevet burned by Donchadh with sixty killed

Trevet · townland · Meath · 1145

In 1145 Trevet was burned by Donchadh, and sixty persons were killed therein.

Read the passage

1145. Trevet was burned by Donchadh, and sixty persons were killed therein.
1152. Trevet was plundered by the Hy-Bruin.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 112

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Trevet, in 1145, Donchadh burned the place and sixty persons were killed in the fire. Seven years later, in 1152, it was plundered again, this time by the Hy-Bruin. Not much else survives in the record about what happened here.

Abbot Richard Nangle's pardon after Simnel rebellion

Navan · town · Meath · 1488

Abbot Richard Nangle of Navan was concerned in the rebellion raised on account of Lambert Simnel, and in 1488 received a pardon from Henry the Seventh, taking the oath of allegiance.

Read the passage

1488. Richard Nangle, the abbot, having been concerned in the rebellion raised on account of Lambert Simnel, did in this
• It is most probable that this monastery was founded on the old site of the abbey of Xuachongbhail, which very likely had fallen into decay, as all our monasticons are unanimous that the erection of Joceline de Angulo was " founded or rebuilt", and no trace of the former house has ever since been alluded to.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 152

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Navan, the story goes back to 1488. Richard Nangle, the abbot here, had been involved in the rebellion raised on behalf of Lambert Simnel, the pretender to the English throne. That same year he received a pardon from Henry the Seventh and swore his allegiance. The monastery likely stood on the old site of the abbey of Xuachongbhail, which had fallen into decay before Joceline de Angulo founded or rebuilt it.

Bangor Abbey's Three Thousand Monks

near Bangor · town · Down

Dr. Petrie's account, cited in the text, notes that the great monastic establishment at Bangor was said to have housed no less than three thousand monks living in community, each with separate cells arranged in streets near the church.

Read the passage

* Speaking of the early Irish monasteries, Dr. Petrie remarks (Round Towers, p. 416): "It is clear, however, that in the earliest monastic establishments in Ireland, the abbot, clergy, and monks, had each their separate cells, which served them as habitations, and that such other houses, as the house for the accommodation of strangers, the kitchen, etc., were all separate edifices, surrounded by a cashel, or circular wall, and forming a kind of monastery, or ecclesiastical town, like those of the early Christians in the East, and known among the Egyptians by the name of Laura". In page 422 he adds, " But it is obvious that there were at the same time in Ireland, almost innumerable coenobitic establishments, in which vast numbers of monks lived in communities, and had everything in common, as at Bangor, where, it is stated, there were no less than three thousand monks ; at Rahin, where St. Carthagh had eight hundred and sixty-seven monks, who supported thrmselcts by the labour of their own hands. Yet it seems certain that such communities, unlike those in the East, of whom Epiphanius speaks, did not dwell in any single building, but in a multitude of separate cells, arranged in streets in the vicinity of the church ; and hence, tradition points out to this day the situation of such streets, adjacent to the abbey churches, and called such in many parts of Ireland. Such communities would, however, require at least one large building, to answer the purpose of a common refectory ; and that they had such, is proved by innumerable references in the Irish annals, and in the oldest of the Irish ecclesiastical authorities. It will be seen that the name of such a building was Proinnteach, or dining-house". See also Duffy's Catholic Magazine, p. 155.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 10

Bishop Hugh Brady's lost tomb at Dunboyne

Dunboyne · town · Meath · 1583

Hugh Brady, Protestant bishop of Meath and a native of Dunboyne who apostatised and was appointed by Queen Elizabeth, was interred in the chancel of the old church of Dunboyne when he died in 1583. His tomb was apparently destroyed when the present Protestant church was built.

Read the passage

j The celebrated Hugh Brady, Protestant bishop of Meath, was interred in the chancel of the old church of Dunboyne. He was a native of Dunboyne, apostatised, and was appointed to the see of Meath by Queen Elizabeth. He died February 13th, 1583. His tomb seems to have been brushed away by the Protestant architects of the present Protestant church of Dunboyne.
§ I discovered this tomb by accident. Attending a funeral, I noticed that they placed the coffin on a green mound. I ascertained that at all interments the same was done. I had the clay taken away, and about one foot under the surface this tomb appeared. Without knowing it, the people were in reality paying a traditionary tribute of respect to the grave of an old priest. This is done in nearly every Irish graveyard.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 134

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dunboyne, this town gave birth to Hugh Brady. He apostatised, and Queen Elizabeth appointed him Protestant bishop of Meath. He died on February 13, 1583, and was buried in the chancel of the old church of this place. His tomb was destroyed when the present Protestant church was built.

Building of Trim Castle by William Peppard

Trim · town · Meath · 1220

In 1220 the present castle of Trim was built by William Peppard, lord of Tabor, following the earlier fort's destruction and rebuilding.

Read the passage

After the English Invasion, Trim became one of the principal strongholds of the Pale, and parliaments were frequently held in its castles or monastic halls. In 1173, a military fort or castle was erected here by De Lacy, to which Hugh Tyrrell, his deputy, set fire in his absence, on the approach of Roderick O'Connor, King of Connaught. After the departure of the "Irish enemy", and previous to De Lacy's return from England, this castle was rebuilt by Tyrrell. In 1210, King John dwelt for some time at Trim. In 1220, the present castle of Trim was built by William Peppard, lord of Tabor. In 1263, the Dominican abbey of Trim was founded by Geoifry de Geneville, or de Joinville, a nobleman of Champagne, who had married Maud de Lacy, and in 1273, after his return from the Crusades, Sir Geoffry was appointed Lord Justice of Ireland.
In 1308, on the feast of SS. Simon and Jude, he resigned the lordship of Meath to his grand-daughter, Joan, and her husband, Roger Mortimer, became a monk in the Dominican abbey of Trim, and in 1314, on the 19th of October, he died, and was interred in,the cemetery of his monastery.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 49

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim in Meath, you're near one of the principal strongholds of the Pale after the English invasion, where parliaments were frequently held in castles or monastic halls. A military fort was first erected here in 1173 by De Lacy. Hugh Tyrrell, his deputy, set fire to it on the approach of Roderick O'Connor, King of Connaught, then rebuilt it after the Irish enemy departed and before De Lacy returned from England. King John dwelt at Trim for some time in 1210. The present castle was built in 1220 by William Peppard, lord of Tabor.

Capuchin friars settle in Slane, dispersed under Cromwell

Slane · townland · Meath · 1631–1695

In 1631 a community of Capuchin friars settled in the town of Slane, patronized by the barons of Slane, but were dispersed during the Cromwellian persecutions. They later returned and ministered until 1695 when they were shipped to the Continent.

Read the passage

After the confiscations of Henry the Eighth we have no record at present of the priests of Slane until 1631. During the interval the priest had shelter in the castle of Slane, as the noble family of Fleming remained faithful to the Church of their fathers. In 1631 a community of Capuchin friars settled in the town of Slane,* and were warmly patronized and assisted by the baronsf of Slane and the Catholics of the parish. During the persecutions of Cromwell these holy men were dispersed ; but after the storm had subsided they returned, and consoled the faithful until 1695, when, with many other regulars and seculars, they were shipped off to the Continent.
The Rev. Neal CarolanJ succeeded as parish priest in 1H69. He was ordained by Dr. Anthony Geoghegan, bishop of Meath, in 166'^, and having proceeded to Paris in that year, he studied philosophy in the college of Grassini, and took out the degree of master of arts in the University of

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 179

Concealed chapel foundation stone at Ratoath

Ratoath · town · Meath · 1760

About 1760 the Catholics of Ratoath erected a new chapel under the Rath of Ratoath and carved the erection date on a stone in a prominent part of the building, but the intolerant spirit of the times forced them to conceal the stone inside the chapel.

Read the passage

The Rev. Nicholas White succeeded. He was a native, I understand, of this neighbourhood, studied in Rome, and officiated for some years as curate in this parish. On the death, or translation, of the preceding pastor, about 1740, he became parish priest of Ratoath. About the year 1760 the Catholics of this parish erected a new chapel in the valley, under the Rath of Ratoath, and had the date of erection carved on a stone in a prominent part of the building. The spirit of the times would not tolerate even this, and accordingly they had to conceal the stone in the interior of the chapel. This chapel was several times reedified.
The Rev. Nicholas White lived to a very great age, and, for some years previous to his death, the Rev. Patrick Keonan assisted him as curate. He died on the 17th of March, 1789, and was buried in the churchyard of Ratoath. A horizontal tomb has been placed over his remains, with the following inscription :

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 170

Cromwellian butcher Captain Bolton, son of the Chancellor

Bective · townland · Meath

The text notes there was no more inhuman butcher in the Cromwellian army than Captain Bolton, son to the Chancellor who had acquired Bective.

Read the passage

* For a description of the existing remains, see Wakeman's A ntiquities, p. 117; Boi/ne and Blackwater, p. 111. There was no more inhuman butcher in the Cromwellian army than Captain Bolton, son to the Chancellor. See Cambrensis Ever&us, vol. iii , pp. 191, 193.
t Writers of Ireland, p. 108.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 91

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here at Bective, a Captain Bolton held land. He was son to the Chancellor, and writers of the time called him the most inhuman butcher in Cromwell's army.

Cromwell's encampment and bombardment from Tlachtga

Hill of Ward, Tlachtgha · hill or hills · Meath · 1649–1650

Cromwell encamped at the Hill of Ward and, from its heights, shot down the Plunketts of Rathmore.

Read the passage

* Tlachtgha is now called the Hill of Ward. In the days of paganism, druidic fires were kindled here on the 1st of November. "This Hill of Ward", says O'Donovan (note to the Four Masters at 1172), "is crowned with a magnificent ancient rath, consisting of three circumvallations". In 1022 Malachy, monarch of Ireland, defeated the Danes of Dublin at the battle of Ath-buidhe-Tlachta. In 1172 6'Rourke, Prince of Brefny, was treacherously slain at Tlachtgha by Hugh De Lacy. " He was beheaded by them, and they conveyed his head and body ignominiously to Dublin. The head was placed over the gate of the fortress, as a spectacle of intense pity to the Irish, and the body was gibbetted, with the feet upwards, at the northern side of Dublin" — Four Masters at 1 1 72 ; Haverty's History of Ireland, p. 210, 211 ; Moore's History of Ireland, vol. ii. p. 266, 267 ; Irish histories, passim. Cromwell encamped here, and, from the heights of Tlachtga, shot down the Plunketts of Bathmorc. In the reign of Queen Anne a mud wall, thatched chapel was erected at the foot of this hill, and here the inhabitants of Athboy worshipped during the dark days of the last century.
162 ATTIBOY.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 115

Danish Destruction of Duleek's Oratory and Captives Taken

Duleek · town · Meath · 878

In 878 the Derthech of Cianan at Duleek was plundered and destroyed by the Danes, with many people carried off into captivity; the Norse leader Barith was later slain and burned at Dublin, attributed to the miracles of God and St. Cianan.

Read the passage

878. The Derthech of Cianan (Duleek) was plundered and destroyed by the Danes, and a great number of persons were carried off from thence into captivity. Barith, a fierce champion of the Northmen, who was the chief of these persecutors, was afterwards slain and burned at Athcliath (Dublin), through the miracles of God and St. Cianan.
882. Cormac, Bishop of Duleek and Abbot of Clonard, died.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 43

Destruction of St Columba's church at Kells

Kells · town · Meath · 807

In 807 the church of St. Columba at Kells was destroyed, prompting Cellach, abbot of Iona, to flee the Norsemen who had murdered many of his monks and later rebuild the abbey.

Read the passage

807. The church of St. Columba at Kells was destroyed.
About the same year Cellach, abbot of lona, took refuge in Ireland from the Norsemen, who had murdered many of his monks. He rebuilt this abbey, governed it for some years, and resigned in favour of Dermod.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 46

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Kells in Meath. In 807 the church of St Columba here was destroyed. About the same time Cellach, abbot of Iona, took refuge in Ireland from the Norsemen, who had murdered many of his monks. He rebuilt this abbey, governed it for some years, and resigned in favour of Dermod.

Devorgilla's penitence at Mellifont Abbey

Mellifont · townland · Louth

Mellifont Abbey, once resorted to by kings and princes, is said to be where Devorgilla, the wronged bride of Breffny, closed her sad years in austerity and prayer.

Read the passage

Look to the south at " Tara of the Kings", with which so many memories are intertwined, from the earliest epochs of our history to the memorable 1843. See near it the old belfry of Skryne, the Scrinium Sancti Columbce, and the woods that hide from our view the ancient churchyard of St. Seachnall. See in the western view the Kells of Columbkill and the intermediate space, covered with Celtic monuments, crumbling castles, and ancient churches. Look to the north at Knock-Erk, " St. Erc's hill", and below it the old ruins, where, amid the mountain solitudes of Grange, our fathers worshipped in the days of persecution. To the north-east you can see the round tower and stone crosses of Monasterboice (the monastery of St. Buite or Boetius), where flourished the celebrated poet, antiquary, and historian, Flann, whose virtues and learning are eulogized by our annalists. See nearer to you the ruins of the Cistercian Abbey of Mellifont (" the fountain of honey"), once the resort of kings and princes, and where, it is said, the bride of BrefFny, the unfortunate but wronged Devorgilla, closed her sad years in austerity and prayer. Assuredly the history of Meath, both civil and ecclesiastical, could be written on the hill of Slane.
The ancient name of Slane was Ferta-fer-Feig, "The graves of the men of Feig". Where these graves were has not been ascertained.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 58

Dr. William Plunkett's Perilous Voyage to Ireland During Persecution

Killeen · townland · Meath · 1680–1690

Rev. Dr. William Plunkett, presented to the parishes of Killeen and Trevet in 1690, described in a 1680 letter his difficulty finding a ship at Nantes willing to carry him to Ireland during the persecution, for fear their ships and merchandise would be confiscated.

Read the passage

After a long journey I at length arrived at Nantes, a maritime city of France, in which, though there were many English and Irish vessels, yet none wished to receive me, fearing lest (should they bring ecclesiastics to Ireland during the persecution) their ships and merchandise would be confiscated.
In the same year, 1690, the Rev. Dr. John Tyrrell was presented by King James to the parishes of Kilmessan and Galtrim.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 214

Faction Fight Closes Chapel Doors, Priest Says Mass on Tombstone

Kilberry · townland · Meath

Rev. Eugene O'Reilly resigned his appointment at Kilberry in disgust after a faction opposed him and closed the chapel doors against him. On that occasion he celebrated Mass in the graveyard on a tombstone, and the people afterwards regretted their conduct.

Read the passage

* Father Eugene on that occasion celebrated Mass in the graveyard on a tombstone. The people afterwards regretted their conduct on this occasion.
f At the meeting of Slane, held early in July, 1852, to secure the return to parliament of the late lamented Frederick Lucas, the inspector

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 210

Foundation of St. Finian's Seminary, Navan

Navan · town · Meath · 1802–1862

Following decades of penal restrictions on Catholic education, Dr. Plunkett worked to establish a diocesan seminary. St. Finian's Seminary of Navan finally opened in 1802, going on to produce many eminent clergy and professionals.

Read the passage

Lieutenant, laid the foundation stone of Maynooth College, and there was no longer any reason why the important diocese of Meath should be unprovided with a diocesan school. In a few years the long-cherished wishes of Dr. Plunk ett were realized. The seminary* of Navan was opened in 1802. Of all similar establishments in Ireland, few have produced more eminent men, more patriotic or pious priests, more zealous missionaries, many of whom are on the English, Scotch, American, Australian, and Indian missions, than St. Finian's seminary of Navan. She can boast of men in the army and navy, at the bar, in the various professions of life, in the bustle of cities and towns, or ornamenting the private ranks of society, who were once reckoned her alumni. Professors in various colleges feel pride in their youthful connection with her halls. Doctors, engineers, lawyers, merchants, and farmers look back with pleasure to the days when they learned wisdom in her schools. In a word, the seminary of Navan has stood the test of time and competition, and in this year of grace 1862, the number of pupils has surpassed that of any preceding year since its foundation. The first president ana father of this establishment was the late Very Rev. Eugene O'Reilly, who directed up to 1827. He was succeeded by the Very Rev. Patrick O'Connor, late parish priest of Skryne, and vicar-forane. His successor was and is the present accomplished president, Very Rev. Nicholas Power. Diu sospes sit. Amongst the professors were the Rev. Mr. M'Encroe, present archdeacon of Sydney, and, in after years, the Most Rev. Dr. Eugene O'Connell, the present meek and saintly bishop of Maryville, California.
As the vast majority of the staff passed out to the mission,

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 158

As the companion tells it

The road brings you through Navan, in Meath, where St. Finian's Seminary had its foundation. After the penal restrictions on Catholic education, and after the foundation stone of Maynooth College was laid, there was no longer any reason the diocese of Meath should be unprovided with a diocesan school. Dr. Plunkett's long-cherished wishes were realized. The seminary of Navan opened in 1802. Of all similar establishments in Ireland, few have produced more eminent men, more patriotic or pious priests, more zealous missionaries. Many of them went out on the English, Scotch, American, Australian, and Indian missions. Her alumni included men in the army and navy, at the bar, and in the various professions of life. Professors in various colleges felt pride in their youthful connection with her halls. Doctors, engineers, lawyers, merchants, and farmers looked back with pleasure to the days when they learned wisdom in her schools. The seminary stood the test of time and competition. In 1862, the number of pupils surpassed that of any preceding year since its foundation. The first president and father of this establishment was the Very Rev. Eugene O'Reilly, who directed it up to 1827. He was succeeded by the Very Rev. Patrick O'Connor, late parish priest of Skryne and vicar-forane. His successor was and is the present accomplished president, the Very Rev. Nicholas Power. Among the professors were the Rev. Mr. M'Encroe, present archdeacon of Sydney, and in after years the Most Rev. Dr. Eugene O'Connell, the present bishop of Maryville, California. The vast majority of the staff passed out to the mission.

Franciscan Dictionary Written at Trim Convent

Trim · town · Meath · 1662

In 1662, Rev. Richard Plunkett, a poor brother of the Franciscan convent at Trim, wrote a Latin and Irish Dictionary that survives in Marsh's Library with a copy also held at Trinity College Dublin.

Read the passage

After the dissolution and robbery of their monastery the Franciscans settled in a more humble abode, and, supported by the gifts and free offerings of the people, ministered here for a century and a half after the so-called reformation. In 1662 the Rev. Richard Plunkett, a poor brother of the Franciscan convent at Trim, wrote a Latin and Irish Dictionary, now in Marsh's Library. There is also a copy in the Library of Trinity College, Dublin (O'Reilly's Irish Writer^.
After the inhuman edict of 1697, banishing all archbishops, bishops, vicars, deans, friars, etc., the Franciscan house of Trim was finally suppressed and the community banished. Early in the eighteenth century the scattered brethren of St. Francis returned, and founded the friary of Courtown, near the old church of Clonmaduff, where, for upwards of a century, they laboured in the service of God and of the people (see Friary of Courtown). Some of these friars officiated in the parish of Trim during the greater part of the last century, and many parishes in the dioceses of Meath are indebted to the Franciscans of Courtown for the preservation and perpetuation of the Catholic faith. There is an old chalice in the present Franciscan Friary of Multifernam (a? I remarked before, see Courtown) which belonged

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 192

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim in Meath, this is a town where the Franciscans kept a foothold for a century and a half after their monastery was dissolved and robbed. They settled in a humbler abode, supported by the gifts and free offerings of the people. In 1662 the Reverend Richard Plunkett, a poor brother of the Franciscan convent at Trim, wrote a Latin and Irish dictionary that still survives in Marsh's Library, with a copy held at Trinity College Dublin. The community endured here until the inhuman edict of 1697 banishing all archbishops, bishops, vicars, deans, and friars. The Franciscan house of Trim was finally suppressed and the community banished. Early in the 1700s the scattered brethren of Saint Francis returned and founded the friary of Courtown, near the old church of Clonmaduff, where for upwards of a century they laboured in the service of God and of the people. Some of those friars officiated in the parish of Trim during the greater part of the last century, and many parishes in the diocese of Meath are indebted to the Franciscans of Courtown for the preservation and perpetuation of the Catholic faith.

High Cross of Duleek erected by Jenet Dowdall

Duleek · town · Meath · 1599–1601

In the main street of Duleek stands a sculptured high cross about eight or nine feet high, erected on a square masonry base and surrounded by ruins. It was built by Jenet Dowdall in memory of her husband William Bathe of Athcarne, who died in 1599.

Read the passage

In the leading street of the village of Duleek, situated on a solid square of masonry about five feet in height, up which is a flight of steps, surrounded by a green knoll, and encompassed with ruins, stands one of those venerable sculptured crosses so emblematic of the ancient faith, and which were
* Archil. ill's Monasticon.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 128

Lettered stone tradition of prayer at Rathmore chancel

Rathmore · townland · Meath

A lettered stone in the south end of the chancel at Rathmore bears an almost illegible Latin inscription requesting prayers for Christopher Plunket of Rathmore and his wife; the peasantry still kneel before it to recite the Our Father and Hail Mary without knowing its meaning.

Read the passage

There is a lettered stone in the south end of the chancel, before which the peasantry kneel down and recite " Our Father" and " Hail Mary". This is a remarkable instance of the tradition of old pious practices, as not one of them knows any thing of this stone, and the inscription, in antiquated contracted Latin, 'is now all but illegible. The following, divested of contractions, is a faithful transcription : —
'• Orate pro animabus Cristoferi Plunket. de Rathmore militis et Katerinse Preston uxoris ejus qui crucem lapideum infra villam istam ante cemeterium constructerunt et porticum istum et omnibus ante crucem predictani dicentibus Pater Noster et Ave Maria pro animabus dictum in Cristoferi et Katerinae, et parentum suorum concessum eit ducenti dies

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 119

Martyrdom of Bishop Sodhomna of Slane by Norsemen

Slane · townland · Meath · 854

In 854 Sodhomna, Bishop of Slane, received martyrdom at the hands of the Norsemen.

Read the passage

854, Sodhomna, Bishop of Slane, received martyrdom from the Norsemen.
867. Niallan, Bishop of Slane, died.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 61

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in 854, Sodhomna, Bishop of Slane, received martyrdom at the hands of the Norsemen. His successor Niallan also served as Bishop of Slane, and died in 867.

Miraculous cross of Slane broken and its fragments reaching Fennor

Fennor · townland · Meath · 847

In 847 the cross which stood on the green of Slane was reportedly raised up into the air, broken, and divided so that part of its top fell at Teltown and part at Fennor.

Read the passage

847. The cross which was on the green of Slane was raised up into the air ; it was broken and divided, so that a part of its top reached (i.e. fell at) Teltown and Fennor.
882 (recte 885). Eochu, Abbot of Fennor and Kilmoon, died.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 101

Pilgrimage and Veneration of the Image of Our Lady of Trim

Trim · town · Meath

The image of the Blessed Virgin in Trim's abbey was venerated throughout Ireland, drawing pilgrims from all parts and receiving votive offerings; parliament even funded perpetual wax lights before the image.

Read the passage

There was an image of the Blessed Virgin in the abbey of Trim, which was held in great veneration throughout the Irish Church. Pilgrimages were made to it from all parts of the country ; the Irish and Anglo-Irish vied in reverencing it and enriching it with their votive offerings, and even parliaments made provision "for the purpose of erecting and supporting a perpetual wax light before the image of the Virgin in the church of said house, and for supporting four other wax lights before the said image on the mass of Saint Mary". Many miracles are recorded* as having been performed through its instrumentality ; and hence our annalists refer to it as an object of national veneration. On the 20th of June, 1538, Archbishop Browne wrote to Cromwell cf
" There goithe a common brewte amonges the Yrish men, that I intende to ploke downe our Lady of Tryme, with other places of pilgrimages, as the Holy Crosse and souch like ; which in deade I never attempted, although my conscience wolde right well serve me to oppresse soache ydolles".

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 186

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, this was once one of the great pilgrimage towns of Ireland. An image of the Blessed Virgin in the abbey here drew pilgrims from all parts of the country, and the Irish and Anglo-Irish vied in reverencing it with their votive offerings. Even parliament made provision for a perpetual wax light before the image, and four more on the feast of Saint Mary. Our annalists called it an object of national veneration, and many miracles were recorded through its instrumentality. It came under threat in 1538, when Archbishop Browne wrote to Cromwell that there went a common report among the Irish that he intended to pluck down our Lady of Trim, along with other pilgrimage places. He denied it, though he added his conscience would serve him well to oppress such idols.

Pilgrimage stations and pardons continue at Kilmainham despite Reformation

Kilmainham · townland · Dublin · 1538

Archbishop Brown complained that on Palm Sunday at Kilmainham the traditional pilgrimage 'stacions' and pardons were still vigorously practised, a place he could not suppress because it was exempt from his jurisdiction.

Read the passage

" I thinke you have not, no more I truste the commissioners hath, commytted to oblivion th occasion of myn aunswer unto the Busshop of Mythe, when I preachid at Christes Church the 4th Sonday in Lent. He hath not onlie, sithens that tyme, by penne (as you know his wante full well) ray led aud raged ayenste me, calling me heretike and beggar, with other rabulouse revilinges, as I have written unto my Lord, which I am ashamed to reherse ; but also on Palme Sonday, at after none, in Kilmaynam, where the stacions, aud also pardons, ben now as bremely usid as ever they were. Yet cannot I helpe it, by cause the place is exempte ; but I truste it is not so exempte, but that the kinges commaundement myght take place. There, as ye know, he is highly bol-
* State Papert, voL ii. p. 639. t State Papers, vol. iii. p. 1.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 75

Ruins of Newtown's Ancient Cathedral Described by Wilde

Newtown · townland · Meath

Dr. Wilde describes the ruins of Newtown priory and its cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul as among the most elegant and earliest examples of light pointed Gothic in Ireland, with massive ancient ivies clustering over the remains and an eastern window fifty feet high. He laments that carved stones and inscribed tombstones from the ruins have been repurposed as headstones in the adjoining graveyard.

Read the passage

" The principal ruins consist of the monastery, with its usual appendages, and the remains of the ancient cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, which is one of the most elegant structures, and perhaps one of the very earliest specimens of the light pointed Gothic, in the kingdom. Portions of the southern wall, and of the eastern and western ends, still remain. Ivies, centuries old, of enormous size, yet still of the freshest green, cluster round and mantle over these ruins, particularly about the eastern window, which now lies open to the ground, and is some fifty feet in height, affording, in several points of view, those beauteous framings to the neighbouring landscapes to which we have
already alluded Much of the adjoining ground is still

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 195

St. Seachnall founds Dunshaughlin and dies there

Dunshaughlin · town · Meath · 448

Dunshaughlin takes its name from St. Seachnall, a disciple of St. Patrick who fixed his episcopal see there. He died on 27 November 448 and was interred in his own church, becoming the first bishop to die in Ireland.

Read the passage

inghis reasons St. Seachnall asked forgiveness, and composed a hymn* in his honour which, most probably, was the first Christian Latin hymn composed in Ireland. It has been published by Father Colgan, and republished by Ware, who calls it an alphabetical hymn, because the strophes, consisting each of four lines, begin with the letters of the alphabet, following in order. It appears too in the ancient Antiphonarium Benchorense, a work certainly beyond one thousand years old, which has been republished by Muratori There are different readings in the various editions, but substantially the same. St. Seachnall's hymn is frequently referred to in our ancient writers, and many favours are promised to those who reverently recite it. After a holy and edifying life, his suffraganship having lasted for six years, St. Seachnall died on the 27th of November, 448, in the seventy-fifth year of his asre, and was interred in his own church of Dunshaughlin. He was the first bishop who died in Ireland, and has been held in special reverence throughout the diocese of Meath. As an instance of this, the name Maol-Seachlan (servant of St. Seachnall) was common amongst the ancient Irish (but particularly in the royal race of Meath. The O'Maolseachlains, or O'Melaghlins, who belonged to the great branch of the Southern Hy-
* The hymn begins with " Audite orrmes amantes Deum sancta merita" — In the Book of Hymns of the Ancient Church of Ireland, edited by Dr. Todd, the " hymn of St Sechnall in praise of St. Patrick" is given in the Irish characters, together with the historical preface and copious notes. In the Antiphonarium Benchorense, a MS. of the eighth century, written in the monastery of Bangor, county of Down, and preserved in the Ambrosian Library, Milan, there is another hymn, entitled " Hymnus quando communicarent Sacerdotes", and begins —

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 55

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dunshaughlin in Meath, you are in a place that takes its name from St. Seachnall, a disciple of St. Patrick who fixed his episcopal see here. He composed a hymn in St. Patrick's honour, most probably the first Christian Latin hymn written in Ireland. It is an alphabetical hymn, each stanza of four lines beginning with successive letters of the alphabet, and it appears in the ancient Antiphonarium Benchorense, a manuscript written in the monastery of Bangor and preserved in the Ambrosian Library in Milan. The hymn was published by Father Colgan and republished by Ware, and it is frequently referred to by ancient Irish writers, who promise many favours to those who reverently recite it. After a holy life and six years as suffragan, St. Seachnall died on 27 November 448, in the 75th year of his age. He was interred in his own church at Dunshaughlin. He was the first bishop to die in Ireland, and has been held in special reverence throughout the diocese of Meath. The name Maol-Seachlan, meaning servant of St. Seachnall, was common among the ancient Irish, particularly in the royal race of Meath. The O'Maolseachlains, or O'Melaghlins, belonged to the great branch of the Southern Hy.

Suppression of Ballybogan Priory and grant to Bermingham

Ballybogan · townland · Donegal · 1541

Under the last prior, Rev. Thomas Bermingham, the monastery had to surrender its vast possessions of over five thousand acres; in 1541 its lands and the title 'Baron of Carbrie' were granted by Henry VIII to Sir William Bermingham.

Read the passage

Blessed Virgin of Navan and Trim. According to Ware's Annals, the crucifix of Ballybogan, "which", he says "had been held in great veneration", was publicly burnt in 1538. The last prior of Ballybogan was Rev. Thomas Bermingham, in whose time this monastery had to surrender its vast possessions,* numbering five thousand two hundred acres of arable and pasture land, in various counties. In 1541 all the manors, lands, and liberties of this abbey, with the title and dignity of " Baron of Carbrie", were granted by Henry the Eighth to Sir William Bermingham, at a rent of £4 3s 4d.f By the forty-first of Elizabeth, the reversion was granted to Edward Fitzgerald and his heirs. In 1608, King James the First granted to Sir Edward Fitzgerald, Knight, amongst other properties :J
" The site, etc., of the late monastery of Ballybogan, with all the buildings, orchards, gardens, etc., thereto appertaining, and all lands, customs, and hereditaments in Ballybogan, with a fair there, and a watennill, parcel of the estate of the said monastery".

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 120

Surrender of the Priory of St. John, Kells, in 1539

Kells · town · Meath · 1539

The last prior of Kells, Cornelius Duff, was obliged on 24 July 1539 to surrender the Trinitarian priory and hospital of St. John to Henry VIII's commissioners, ending its centuries of charitable work for the poor.

Read the passage

whose whole lives were devoted to works of charity. The last prior of Kells was Cornelius Duff,* and on the 24th of July, 1539, he was obliged to surrender the priory and all its possessions to the commissioners of Henry the Eighth. A pensionf of four pounds was promised to the prior, and twenty shillings to Thomas Corregan, payable out of the profits of the rectories of Stonehafl and Trystelkeran.
At the suppression of this priory, it was found to possess the following :J

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 140

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Kells, in Meath, where a Trinitarian priory and hospital of St. John once carried on centuries of charitable work for the poor. The last prior, Cornelius Duff, was obliged to surrender it on 24 July 1539 to the commissioners of Henry the Eighth. A pension of 4 pounds was promised to the prior, and 20 shillings to Thomas Corregan, payable out of the profits of the rectories of Stonehall and Trystelkeran. That was the end of it.

Synod of Kells assigns Meath sees as suffragans of Armagh

Kells · town · Meath · 1152

At the great national Synod of Kells in 1152, presided over by Cardinal Paparo as papal legate, the sees of Meath, namely Clonard, Duleek, Kells, etc., were assigned as suffragans to the archiepiscopal see of Armagh.

Read the passage

THERE were anciently in Ireland four kingdoms in addition to the monarchy, viz. : Ulster, Munster, Leinster, and Connaught ; and these were again subdivided into territories, each governed by a chief. In the second century, Meath* was formed into a principality, as mensal lands to support the monarchy, by Tuathalf the Legitimate, king of Ireland, who, for this purpose, took a portion from each of the surrounding kingdoms. It originally extended from Dublin to the Shannon ; from the centre of Ireland to the sea ; and included Meath, Westmeath, a large part of the King's County,^ and the County Longford, with portions of Dublin and Cavan. The present Diocese of Meath, the largest in Ireland, is almost coextensive with the ancient principality. At the great national Synod of Kells, held in 1152, over which presided Cardinal Paparo, as legate a latere of Pope Eugene the Third, amongst other matters transacted, the sees of Meath, namely, Clonard, Duleek, Kells, etc., were assigned as suffragans to the archiepiscopal see of Armagh. Since that period Meath has belonged to the ecclesiastical province of Ulster, and after the union and consolidation of the ancient bishoprics, the prelates of Meath have ranked as
* Meath has been variously written Meth, Midhe, Media, and Meidhe. By some it is derived from Media, signifying its position in the midst of the provinces of Ireland. Others derive it from Meidhe, a neck ; because the kingdom of Meath was formed from necks taken from the surrounding districts.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 25

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Kells, in Meath. Back in the second century, a king called Tuathalf the Legitimate carved out a principality here to support the monarchy, taking land from each of the surrounding kingdoms. It stretched from Dublin to the Shannon and covered what is now several counties. The Diocese of Meath today is nearly as large as that old territory. What brings this town into the record, though, is the great national Synod of Kells held in 1152. Cardinal Paparo presided, as legate of Pope Eugene the Third, and among the business transacted, the sees of Meath, namely Clonard, Duleek, Kells and others, were assigned as suffragans to the archiepiscopal see of Armagh. From that point on, Meath belonged to the ecclesiastical province of Ulster.

Teltown, royal games site on the Blackwater

Teltown · townland · Meath

Teltown on the Blackwater is described as a site celebrated for royal palaces, pagan games, and Druidic ceremonies in ancient Meath.

Read the passage

There are many historic associations connected with ancient and royal Meath. Here stood the palace of Tara, long the seat of royalty, whither resorted the kings, princes, and chieftains, the bards, druids, and brehons of the various kingdoms of Ireland. Uisneach in Westmeath, Tlachtgha, or the Hill of Ward, near Athboy, and Teltown, on the Blackwater, are celebrated for their royal palaces, their pagan games, their solemn conventions, and 'their Druidic ceremonies. In Meath stood the royal cemetery of Bruyhna-]3oinne,§ "the town or fort of the Boyne", where the great princes of the Tuatha de Danaan race chose to sleep after the turmoil and toil of life. Newgrange, by its remote antiquity, is still, like the pyramids of Egypt, the wonder and puzzle of the antiquarian tourist. Pagan cromlechs,
* Harris's edition of Ware's Antiquities, p. 31. Besides counties, there were other districts called crocea or cross-lands, in which Bishops and Abbots had extensive jurisdictions. Thus we read of the Crocea Villa de Navan, Crocea Midice, etc. The sheriffs of counties were distinct from these of the cross-lands — See Harris's Ware's Antiquities, p. 32.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 26

Tradition of Dean Swift and the cross of Kells

Kells · town · Meath

A local tradition holds that the shaft of the sculptured cross at Kells had been prostrate and was set back on its pedestal by Dean Swift, and that a cavalry regiment sharpened lances on the pedestal at the close of the eighteenth century.

Read the passage

* There is a tradition in Kells, that the shaft of this cross was prostrate, and was placed on its pedestal by Dean Swift ; also that a regiment of cavalry sharpened their lances on the pedestal at the close of the last century. The cross of Kells was converted into a gallows for the unfortunate prisoners of 1 798. t Ware's Monasticon, Allemande.
\ Lives of the Saints, vol. i. pp. 214 and 215. § Ibid.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 140

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kells, there is a tradition about the sculptured cross here. The shaft had been prostrate, and Dean Swift is said to have set it back on its pedestal. A cavalry regiment sharpened lances on that pedestal at the close of the eighteenth century.

Trim: a City of Ruins Described by Dr. Wilde

Trim · town · Meath

Trim is described as containing extensive medieval ruins spanning over a mile, including St. John's friary, St. Peter and St. Paul's abbey, King John's castle, the sheep-gate, town walls, and the Yellow Steeple. Dr. Wilde's account emphasizes the picturesque and historic character of the townscape along the Boyne.

Read the passage

" To see Trim aright, the tourist must approach it by the Blackbull road from Dublin,when all the glorious ruins which crowd this historic locality, and which extend over a space of above a mile, burst suddenly upon him : the remains of St. John's friary and castellated buildings at the bridge of Newtown ; the stately abbey of St. Peter and St. Paul, a little further on, raising aloft its tall, light, and ivy-mantled windows ; the neighbouring chapel, with its sculptured tombs and monumental tablets ; the broad green lawns, through which the Boyne winds between that and Trim ; the silver stream itself, gliding smoothly onward with unbroken surface ; the gray massive towers of King John's castle, f with its outward walls and barbican, the gates, and towers, and bastions, the fosse, and moat, and chapel ; the sheep-gate, and portions of the town-wall; and, towering above all, the tall, commanding form of the Yellow Steeple, which seems the guardian genius of the surrounding ruins. All these beauteous objects, with the ancient church tower, the town itself, the Wellington testimonial, and the modern public buildings, form a combination of scenery and an architectural diorama such as we have rarely witnessed. We have also this additional charm in the views of Trim, that, look at this place as we may, its noble ruins are ever forming new combinations, fresh groups of beauty and of interest, singly or collectively ; in all the varying aspects caused by atmospheric changes ; in glaring sunshine playing upon their massive walls ; with the heavens overcast, and the drifting shower half revealing some of their turrets and gables ; with the calm subdued light of evening softening every object in the landscape, or the silver moontide throwing into shadow every dark recess and deep cathedral niche ; with the stream that winds among them, now
• The Boyne and Blackioater, pp. 79, 80.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 184

As the companion tells it

Trim holds more medieval ruins packed into a mile than most towns in Ireland. Dr. Wilde wrote that to see it aright you must come by the Blackbull road from Dublin, when all the ruins burst suddenly upon you. There are the remains of St. John's friary and castellated buildings at the bridge of Newtown, and the stately abbey of St. Peter and St. Paul raising its ivy-mantled windows. A neighbouring chapel holds sculptured tombs and monumental tablets. The Boyne winds through green lawns between Newtown and Trim, gliding smoothly with unbroken surface. King John's castle stands with gray massive towers, outward walls and barbican, gates, towers, bastions, a fosse, moat, and chapel. The sheep-gate and portions of the town-wall survive, and towering above all is the Yellow Steeple, which Wilde said "seems the guardian genius of the surrounding ruins." The Wellington testimonial and modern public buildings stand among these older things, forming what he called an architectural diorama. He found an additional charm: look at Trim as you may, its ruins form fresh groups of beauty in every light, sunshine on massive walls, overcast skies half revealing turrets and gables, evening light softening every object, or moonlight throwing dark recesses and cathedral niches into shadow.

1697 Banishment of Friars from Trim

Trim · town · Meath · 1697

Following the inhuman edict of 1697 banishing all archbishops, bishops, vicars, deans and friars, the Franciscan house of Trim was finally suppressed and its community banished, though the friars later returned and founded the friary of Courtown.

Read the passage

After the inhuman edict of 1697, banishing all archbishops, bishops, vicars, deans, friars, etc., the Franciscan house of Trim was finally suppressed and the community banished. Early in the eighteenth century the scattered brethren of St. Francis returned, and founded the friary of Courtown, near the old church of Clonmaduff, where, for upwards of a century, they laboured in the service of God and of the people (see Friary of Courtown). Some of these friars officiated in the parish of Trim during the greater part of the last century, and many parishes in the dioceses of Meath are indebted to the Franciscans of Courtown for the preservation and perpetuation of the Catholic faith. There is an old chalice in the present Franciscan Friary of Multifernam (a? I remarked before, see Courtown) which belonged
312 THE PRIORY OP NEWTOWN.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 192

As the companion tells it

Coming up now through Trim in Meath. In 1697, an edict banished all archbishops, bishops, vicars, deans, and friars from Ireland. The Franciscan house of Trim was finally suppressed and its community banished. But early in the 1700s the scattered brethren of Saint Francis returned and founded the friary of Courtown, near the old church of Clonmaduff. There they laboured for upwards of a century in the service of God and of the people. Some of these friars officiated in the parish of Trim during the greater part of the last century, and many parishes in the dioceses of Meath are indebted to the Franciscans of Courtown for the preservation and perpetuation of the Catholic faith.

Ancient Catalogue Names the Character of Irish Monastic Sites

Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly

An ancient catalogue cited by Dr. O'Connor characterizes several Irish monastic centres by their distinguishing virtues: Armagh as the head of Ireland, Clonmacnoise for its arts, Kildare for happiness, Bangor for learning, Kells for joy, Tallaght as the eye of Ireland, Lismore for litanies, Cork for its difficult language, and Glendalough as the cemetery of Ireland.

Read the passage

In a very ancient catalogue cited by Dr. O'Connor (Prolegomena, pars, ii., p. 93), the monasteries are thus characterized : " The head of Ireland, Armagh ; the arts of Ireland, Clonmacnoise ; the happiness of Ireland, Kildare ; the learned of Ireland, Bangor ; the joy of Ireland, Kells ; the eye of Ireland, Tallaght ; the litanies of Ireland, Lismore ; the difficult language of Ireland, Cork ; the cemetery of Ireland, Glendalough", etc., etc. — Cambrensis Eversus, edited by Dr. Kelly, note, vol. i., p. 173.
The learned Bonaventure Maroni thus describes the great conflux of foreigners to the school of Lismore :

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 17

Bangor's Three Thousand Monks

near Bangor · town · Down

The great monastery of Bangor is described as having housed three thousand monks at one time, with superiors holding episcopal authority and maintaining strict discipline.

Read the passage

" But, along with the Christian religion, there was brought in by the numerously immigrating British, Gaulish, and Roman — nay, perhaps even Egyptian — clergy, the learning of the Latin Church, and various new arts, among this already somewhat advanced and accomplished people. They learned how to build with more elegance and durability ; how to use lime and mortar ; how to turn arches ; likewise, how to manufacture costly vessels for the service of the Church. In particular, they also learned the Greek and Latin languages and letters. With singular industry, they multiplied the manuscripts of old authors which were brought to them, and soon gained the reputation of being the most skilful scribes of the age. Numerous monasteries were speedily erected ; in Bangor alone there were at one time three thousand monks. Their superiors possessed episcopal authority, and they steadfastly maintained the strictest discipline. Selfdenial was familiar to them, but it was accompanied with great activity in the pursuit of knowledge, and always with a particular fondness and great talent for music.f Such was the state

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 15

De Lacy's Castle and the Ancient Monuments of Kells

Kells · town · Meath · 1178

Kells was walled and fortified with towers by the Anglo-Normans, with a castle erected by de Lacy in 1178 on the site now occupied by the market place; the round tower, sculptured crosses, and house of St. Columbkill still stand as reminders of its ancient religious importance.

Read the passage

KELLS, anciently called JJun-Chuile-Sibrinne, Ceanannus, Anglicised Kenlis (and Headfort), is pleasantly situated on the Blackwater, and gives names to the baronies of Upper and Lower Kells. It was a place of great importance in the days of our freedom, and is frequently alluded to by our annalists from the earliest period of our history. On the arrival of the Anglo-Normans, it was walled, and fortified with towers, and had a castle erected by de Lacy in 1178, the site of which is occupied by the present market place. The round tower of Kells, the splendid sculptured crosses, and the house of St. Columbkill remind us still of the ages of faith, while the chivalrous generosity of the inhabitants, whenever religion or country calls for their cooperation, indicates that the old Catholic and national spirit has by no means degenerated. The present union of Kells comprises the parishes of Kells, Girley,* and Burry. The patron saint of Kells is St. Columbkill, whose festival here has been, from time immemorial, celebrated by a public station on the 9th of June.
The ancient religious foundations of Kells were: the abbey of the Blessed Virgin, founded by St Columba; the priory of St. John; the church of St. Senan; and a perpetual chantry of three priests in the parish of St. Columbkill, to celebrate

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan01cogaiala, Chapter 45

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Kells, a town on the Blackwater that gave its name to the baronies of Upper and Lower Kells. It was a place of great importance in the old days, and the annalists speak of it from the earliest period of Irish history. When the Anglo-Normans arrived, they walled the town and fortified it with towers. A castle was built here by de Lacy in 1178, and the site of that castle is now the market place. What still stands from the ancient days of religion are the round tower of Kells, the sculptured crosses, and the house of St. Columbkill. The patron saint of Kells is St. Columbkill, and his festival has been celebrated here from time immemorial with a public station on the 9th of June. The old religious foundations included the abbey of the Blessed Virgin, founded by St. Columba, the priory of St. John, the church of St. Senan, and a perpetual chantry of three priests in the parish of St. Columbkill.

The Diocese of Meath: Ancient and Modern (vol. 1)

The stories, best first

Massacre of Maelbryde MacRonan and the people of Kells on Crom Dubh's Sunday

Mass killing of protected persons in the barony of Duleek

Miraculous relics of St. Cassanus venerated at Donaghmore

Peace guaranteed with the bell of St. Fechin

Prince Dagobert of Austrasia educated at Slane Abbey

Reverence for horizontal tombstone at Donaghmore used in burial rites

St. Kienan founds the first stone church at Duleek

Warrant issued for arrest of Fr. Ferrall in 1798

260 People Sheltering in the Oratory of Trevet Burned by Danes

Burial custom at Archdeacon John Plunkett's tomb in Cortown

Collapse of the Mudwall Chapel at Leighsbrook, Navan

Death and burial of Dr. John Jones, curate of Navan, in Bective chapel

De Lacy's castle at Trim burned by his own deputy

Donaghpatrick town swept away, land turned to sheepwalk

First stone church in Ireland built at Duleek

Frederick Lucas's tenant-right speech at Slane, 1852

Geoffrey de Geneville Enters and is Buried at the Dominican Friary

Henry II grants the land of Meath to Hugh de Lacy

Inscription and iconography of the Duleek High Cross

Knights of Milo de Cogan Plunder Duleek, Slain in Revenge

Patrick White knocked on the head by Lieutenant Luaton at Trim

Slaying of Gearr-an-Chogaidh at Dunshaughlin attributed to miracle

Surrender of Bective Abbey at the Dissolution

The ancient baptismal font of Clonard

The Ivy-Clad Ruined Church of Killeen

Threat to destroy the pilgrimage shrine of Our Lady of Trim

Trevet burned by Donchadh with sixty killed

Abbot Richard Nangle's pardon after Simnel rebellion

Bangor Abbey's Three Thousand Monks

Bishop Hugh Brady's lost tomb at Dunboyne

Building of Trim Castle by William Peppard

Capuchin friars settle in Slane, dispersed under Cromwell

Concealed chapel foundation stone at Ratoath

Cromwellian butcher Captain Bolton, son of the Chancellor

Cromwell's encampment and bombardment from Tlachtga

Danish Destruction of Duleek's Oratory and Captives Taken

Destruction of St Columba's church at Kells

Devorgilla's penitence at Mellifont Abbey

Dr. William Plunkett's Perilous Voyage to Ireland During Persecution

Faction Fight Closes Chapel Doors, Priest Says Mass on Tombstone

Foundation of St. Finian's Seminary, Navan

Franciscan Dictionary Written at Trim Convent

High Cross of Duleek erected by Jenet Dowdall

Lettered stone tradition of prayer at Rathmore chancel

Martyrdom of Bishop Sodhomna of Slane by Norsemen

Miraculous cross of Slane broken and its fragments reaching Fennor

Pilgrimage and Veneration of the Image of Our Lady of Trim

Pilgrimage stations and pardons continue at Kilmainham despite Reformation

Ruins of Newtown's Ancient Cathedral Described by Wilde

St. Seachnall founds Dunshaughlin and dies there

Suppression of Ballybogan Priory and grant to Bermingham

Surrender of the Priory of St. John, Kells, in 1539

Synod of Kells assigns Meath sees as suffragans of Armagh

Teltown, royal games site on the Blackwater

Tradition of Dean Swift and the cross of Kells

Trim: a City of Ruins Described by Dr. Wilde

1697 Banishment of Friars from Trim

Ancient Catalogue Names the Character of Irish Monastic Sites

Bangor's Three Thousand Monks

De Lacy's Castle and the Ancient Monuments of Kells