Name: The Diocese of Meath: Ancient and Modern (vol. 2)
Author: Anthony Cogan (1826–1872)

Durrow: The Vanished Glory of St. Columba's Abbey

Durrow · parish · Offaly

Durrow, hallowed by the foot-prints of St. Columbkill, once housed a famous abbey and church, now utterly destroyed with not a stone remaining. The author laments that plunderers and exterminators swept away every vestige of the ancient sanctuary, though its traditions and holy spell endure.

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Durrow, Durrmv ! what associations and holy memories linger around you ! Durrow, hallowed by the foot-prints of St. Columbkill — one of his most cherished retreats from the turmoil and strife of the world. Let the antiquarian or the mere tourist visit Durrow — even now in its desolation— in its annihilation — and he will experience feelings of awe and solemnity which the tongue cannot tell, which the pen cannot describe.. St. Columba's abbey and church, it is true, are no longer there ; the green grass and the wild shrubs grow over the solitude. The matin bell no longer summons from his slumbers the cloistered monk, to chant the praises of God — to commence his routine of sacred duties — or welcomes the children of the poor, the wayfarer and the stranger, to join in holy exercises and to partake of hospitality. Professions and ceremonies, anniversaries and festivities, have long since ceased ; the lights have been quenched on the altars ; and the holy men have departed — their souls to a better world, and their bodies to sanctify the earth on which you tread. Durrow no longer exists — not a stone of it remains ; its glories live in the traditions of the people, and its merits have ascended like incense around the throne of the omnipotent God. Durrow, so long the abode of sanctity and learning, has been torn down and uprooted ; the sacrilegious plunderer and exterminator have ploughed up and swept away every vestige of abbey and church ; and the souls of Lacy, Elizabeth, and Norbury, can perhaps, best tell how such acts are judged by heaven. Yet, in its ruin -and loneliness there is
544 l.r.ANF.RY OF CF.A11A — TULLAMORE.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 28

Execution of Archbishop Oliver Plunket lamented by Dr. Cusack

near Armagh · town · Armagh · 1681

When Oliver Plunket, Archbishop of Armagh, was arrested, imprisoned and executed on 11th July 1681, his old college friend Dr. Cusack, writing under the assumed name 'James Fleming', bitterly condemned the apostate friars Duffy and MacMoyer whose actions led to the martyrdom.

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more unaffected grief the loss sustained by the Irish Church, and the cruel injustice inflicted on the Primate, than his old friend and college contemporary, Dr. Cusack. Under the assumed name of " James Fleming,"* he wrote to Home, on the 3rd of August, 1681, reprobating in the strongest language the conduct of the apostate friars, Duffy and MacMoyer, and notifying that they had inflicted ^ worse wound upon our Church than it had received for a hundred and sixty years, and done it more injury than all the labours of the whole Franciscan order had done good for the past hundred years, or could perform in a hundred years to come, -f-
Many dignitaries of the Irish Church were anxious to have some signal chastisement inflicted by the Holy See on the archdiocese of Armagh, for the crimes of the apostates, and the rabid hostility with which they hunted the saintly Primate to death ; amongst the foremost was Dr. Cusack, and in a letter to the Propaganda, dated January, 1682, he thus gave vent to his feelings : j

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 9

Execution of Rev. Mr. O'Reilly by the Puritans

Liscartan · townland · Meath · 1640–1660

Tradition in the parish of Liscartan held that a Rev. Mr. O'Reilly, pastor there in the early 17th century, was put to death by the Puritans in the time of Cromwell; he had lived near Ardbraccan.

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There is a tradition in the parish that a Rev. Mr. O'Reilly was pastor here in the early days of the 17th century, and that he was put to death by the Puritans in the time of Cromwell. He lived in the neighbourhood of Ardbraccan.
In 1704 Rev. John Bamewall was registered at Trim as " Popish Priest of Ardbraccan, Martry, Rathboyn, and Liscartan." He was ordained in 1680, at Dunadea, County Kildare, by Dr. Mark Foristall, Bishop of Kildare, lived at Neilstown the year of the Registration, and was then forty-seven. years of age. This great ecclesiastic was nearly related to Lord Trimblestown, and was, in every

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 20

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Liscartan, tradition says a Reverend Mr. O'Reilly served as pastor here in the early years of the 17th century. He lived in the neighbourhood of Ardbraccan. The parish held that he was put to death by the Puritans in the time of Cromwell, during those years between 1640 and 1660. No more than that survives in the record, just the tradition itself, passed down in the parish.

Hidden Mass vault used during persecution

Moorechurch · townland · Meath

A vault at the chapel site in Moorechurch was used to celebrate Mass in the days of persecution and also served as a hiding place for clergy.

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There was a chapel here, in the parish of Mora or Moorechurch, dedicated to St. Peter.* This sanctuary was subsequently called " Castle Chapel," which the soldiers of Cromwell in their march to Drogheda dismantled. There is a vault here, in which mass was celebrated in the days of persecution ; it served also a hiding place for the clergy. About the year 1854, the walls of the old church were torn down, the tombstones were uprooted and broken ; and all were carried away for building purposes. I am at a loss to conceive why the clergy or gentry of this neighbourhood tolerated such wanton desecration of the dead. Why was not this Vandal prosecuted and held up to public indignation, for defacing our ancient monuments and dishonouring the dead ? If a bough were lopped off a tree — if a hare or pheasant were captured, by a poor hungry peasant, the rights of property would be invoked, the game laws quickly set in motion, and a 'magisterial rebuke, followed by pains and penalties, administered to the unhappy delinquent ; but the dead may be insulted, their bones exhumed, and their monuments broken, without exciting the indignation or moving to action the very class who, in a healthy state of society, would be the protectors of the people, the guardians and avengers of the honor of tJieir country.
Pastors since 1690.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 19

Image of Christ Crucified Destroyed at Ballyboggan Abbey

Ballyboggan · townland · Meath · 1537–1538

The venerated image of Christ crucified kept at the Abbey of Ballyboggan was destroyed by Reformation agents along with other famous images and relics across Ireland. This was part of the wholesale iconoclasm following Henry VIII's break with Rome.

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" About this time, amongst the famous images whereunto pilgrimages were made, the statue of the Blessed Virgin was burned, then kept at Trim, in the abbey of the canons regular, and tJie gifts of the pilgrims were taken away from thence. The image of Christ crucified, in the Abbey of Ballybogan, and St. Patrick's Staff, in the cathedral church of the Holy Trinity at Dublin . . . underwent the like fate."
In the Annals of Loch C£, preserved in Trinity College, Dublin, we have a more detailed account of the iconoclasm of the Reformers rf*

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 5

Kilbeggan disfranchised after the Union

Kilbeggan · town · Westmeath

Kilbeggan, once of considerable importance and returning two members to the Irish Parliament, was disfranchised at the time of the Union, with £15,000 awarded as compensation to the proprietor Gustavus Lambert.

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once of considerable importance, and returned two members to the Irish Parliament, till the time of the ill-fated Union, when it was disfranchised, and £15,000 awarded as compensation to Gustavus Lambert, Esq., the proprietor. The Cistercian Abbey has been completely uprooted, so that not a stone remains of that once magnificent and frequented structure. The site of the monastery is now a green field. There were two churches here — the abbey church and parochial church. The one is represented by a green mound called " the Church of the Relic/' and the other is occupied by the present Protestant edifice. All ancient traces of Catholicity have been swept away, so that not a vestige remains, unless the cross of Christ on the modern tomb-stones of the faithful.
Rdthhugh, or Rahue. — The old church measures sixtysix feet by eighteen feet four inches. The situation is charming, and there is an air of antiquity and reverence around the hallowed walls. The cemetery is extensive, and amongst the many tomb-stones, there is one, a gem in its way, which will interest the reader. It commemorates a young, zealous priest, who officiated for a short time in Kilbeggan, and joined the archdiocese of Dublin :

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 28

As the companion tells it

Kilbeggan is coming up along the road. This town once carried considerable importance and returned two members to the Irish Parliament, until the Union brought an end to that. It was disfranchised, and 15,000 pounds in compensation went to the proprietor, Gustavus Lambert. A Cistercian Abbey stood here once, described as a magnificent and frequented structure, but it has been completely uprooted. Not a stone of it remains, and the site of the monastery is now a green field. There were two churches. One is represented by a green mound called the Church of the Relic, and the other is occupied by the present Protestant edifice. All ancient traces of Catholicity have been swept away, so that not a vestige remains, unless the cross of Christ on the modern tombstones of the faithful.

National Synod of Kilkenny establishes Confederate government

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1642

On 10 May 1642 a national Synod was held at Kilkenny attended by archbishops, bishops and proxies from across Ireland, drawing up an oath of association and establishing a supreme council of twenty-four members to govern in the King's name.

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a national Synod was held at Kilkenny, which was at- 1 by the Archbishops of Armagh, ( 'a^hd, and T : "by the Bishops of Down and Connor, Kildare, O-
rford and Lisniore, Klphin and Clonfert; by the proxies of the Archbishop of Dublin, of the Bishops of Limerick, Emly, and Killaloe; and by sixteen other <li;,"i iteries and heads of religious orders. An oath of assoi iaation was drawn up by the bishops and lay-lords, which was to be taken by all the Catholics of Ireland, and which was to cement in one compact organization the old Irish

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 6

Open-air Mass and priest-hunts on Knockbaron hill

Knockbaron · townland · Galway

Mass was celebrated in the open air on a rock on the hill of Knockbaron near the old church of Drumcullen, and vivid traditions persist of the sufferings of Catholic clergy and priest-hunts through the glens.

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Mass used to be celebrated in the open air, also, on a rock on the hill of Knockbaron, convenient to the old church of Drumcullen, and there are vivid traditions amongst the people of the sufferings of the Catholic clergy and the frequent priest-hunts through the wild, romantic glens of Knockbaron. After a partial relaxation of the penal code, a mud-wall thatched chapel was erected at Five- Alley, about half a mile distant from the present chapel of Eglish, and another, of similarly humble pretensions, was built at Rath, district of Drumcullen, a short distance from the present chapel of Rath. Accordingly, as the Catholics were increasing in numbers and wealth, the old mud- wall temples made way for new erections, of proportionate dimensions, so that Dr. Plunket, at his visitation here, on the llth of June, 1788, found " five schools and two chapels rebuilt." The present chapel of Rath was erected by Rev. Mr. Pidgeon, and that of Eglish by Rev. Mr. O'Donoghoe. In the chapel of Rath is interred Rev. John Grogan, late pastor of Kildalkey, and a slab on the wall has the following :
" In memoriam Rev. Dom. Joannis Grogan,

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 28

Penal-times open-air Mass sites at Parsonstown and Footstown

Parsonstown · townland · Meath · 1700–1750

In the early eighteenth century Mass was offered in the open air on the townlands of Parsonstown and Footstown during the Penal Times, with a hollow still pointed out in Parsonstown where the sacred mysteries were frequently dispensed.

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In the early days of the last century, the Holy Sacrifice was offered in the open air on the townlands of Parsonstown and Footstown, and there is a hollow still pointed out in the former place, where the sacred mysteries were frequently dispensed. There is a large tree near Lobinstown, under the branches of which the priest often times celebrated Mass ; and it is handed down that the pastor usually travelled at that time in the disguise of a beggar, with the vestments across his shoulders in a linen bag, and thus .evaded the bigotry of the times. There was a family in
this neighbourhood named P , which, for generations,

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 23

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in the early 1700s, Mass was offered in the open air at Parsonstown and Footstown during the Penal Times. A hollow in Parsonstown is still pointed out as the place where the sacred mysteries were frequently dispensed. The priest of that era is said to have travelled in the disguise of a beggar, carrying his vestments across his shoulders in a linen bag, and so evaded what the source calls "the bigotry of the times."

Rev. Francis Lynagh's retirement to Donore convent

Donore · town · Meath

After suffering much in the penal era while ministering as priest of Laracor, Drumlargan, Gallow, and Agherpallis, the aged Rev. Francis Lynagh retired to the Dominican convent of Donore, joined the order, and died there at nearly 100 years old, buried in the convent chapel.

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gratified, for he obtained permission to resign his care of souls ; and having entered the neighbouring convent of Donore, he joined the illustrious order of St. Dominic. Although upwards of sixty years of age when he entered religion, he brought with him all the fervour and simplicity of a youthful heart. De Burgo* tells ITS that he was remarkable for self-denial, the spirit of prayer, love of poverty, and strict punctuality in the discharge of his various duties. He died, full of merits, at the advanced age of almost 100 years, and was buried with due honour in the convent chapel. A stone in the now deserted sanctuary of Donore has the following inscription :
" Here lies the body of the

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 25

Secret Mass sites at Mullagh, Gortloney and the 'Hollow of the Mass'

Ballinvally · townland · Meath

During the enforcement of the penal code, Mass was offered in the open air at Mullagh and Gortloney, and sometimes in a lonely spot at the foot of the hill of Ballinvally still called 'Glennenerrim' or 'the Hollow of the Mass.'

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In 1704 Rev. Owen Scally was registered as " Popish Priest of Oldcastle, Loghcrew, and Moylagh."* He was ordained in Dublin, in 1676, by Dr. Plunket, Bishop of Meath, lived at Oldcastle the year of the Registration, and was then fifty-six years of age. In his time the Holy Sacrifice was offered up in the open air at Mullagh and Gortloney, during the rigorous enforcement of the penal code, and sometimes in a lonely place at the foot of the hill of Ballinvally, called to this day " Glennenerrim," or " the Hollow of the Mass."
The Rev. Charles Reilly was succeeding pastor. Some year previous to 1724 we find this pastor, together with the Rev. Walter Dease, Pastor of the neighbouring parish of Kilbride, appointed by the Ordinary to receive the sworn declaration of Rev. Philip Tully, Pastor of Kilmore, in the diocese of Kilmore, to the effect that the Rev. Philip Tully had not, as was represented, appealed from the decision of the Archbishop of Armagh, in an eoclesiastical case, to the Prelate of Dublin, but to the Holy See. (Jas Primatiale Annacanam, Memorandum.)

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala

St Sinche's Convent and Jenny's Well at Kilshine

Kilshine · parish · Meath · 596

St. Abban founded a convent of nuns at Kilshine called Teagh-Sinche, placing the holy virgin Sinche in charge. A holy well called Tobar-Shinia, or 'Jenny's Well,' was the site of stations on her festival, and her death is recorded by the Four Masters in 596 AD.

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Kilshine. — The old church has been torn down and uprooted. A Protestant place of worship occupies the site. St. Abban is said to have founded a convent of nuns here called Teayh-Sinche, and to have placed over it a holy virgin named Sinche, or Sineach. The church was called after her Cill-Sinclte, or Kilshine ; and there was a holy well here called Tobar-Shinia, Anglicized " Jenny's Well," at which stations were formerly held on her festival The Four Masters record the death of St. Sinche, Virgin, on the 9th of November, A.D. 596. — (See -Martyrology of Donegal, Lanigan, vol. ii., p. 329 ; vol. iii., pp. 14, 21, &c.)
St. Peter's. — The old church has been torn down.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 20

The Bishop's Grave at Clonfad

Clonfad · townland · Westmeath

A green mound beside the road near Clonfad churchyard is known locally as "the Bishop's Grave," the burial place of an unnamed bishop; people come here to pray and take away portions of the clay, and some consider it the tomb of St Etchen.

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yard, along the road-side, there is a green mound, the grave of some bishop whose name is now unknown. The people call it " the Bishop's Grave" and they come here to pray, and frequently take with them portions of the day. By some it is considered the tomb of St. Ett-hcn.
The old church of Griffinstown, beautifully situated on a secluded swell of ground, measures forty-one feet six inches by seventeen feet seven inches. An aged ash tree spreads its branches over the site of the altar.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Vanished monastery and town at Portloman

Portloman · townland · Westmeath · 1486

A monastery and a flourishing town once stood at Portloman but have both vanished without a trace; the old church survives romantically situated on the lake shore, with a curious tombstone in its cemetery.

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A monastery %nd a nourishing town once stood here, but both have passed away, and not a vestige now remains of either. After the Anglo-Norman invasion, the church of Portloman was given to an English Abbey, and, in 1486, Thomas, Prior of St. Giles, of Little Malvern, in Worcestershire, and his convent, granted this church (inter alia) to St. Mary's Abbey, Dublin. The venerable old church is romantically situated on the brink of the lake, and the scenery around is so enchanting that it cannot fail to interest antiquary or tourist. The dimensions of the church are seventy-seven feet in length by twenty feet four inches. There is a curious old tomb-stone in the cemetery which seems to have marked the resting place of some distinguished ecclesiastic. It has a cross carved on it, and up to a late period, was sunk considerably in the clay. The visitor will take his departure from this old church, cemetery, and scenery with reluctance.
The old chapels of Marlonstown, Kenny, Kilronan, and Hopestown were pulled down. They are now graveyards.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Wayside cross near Foyran attacked by Orangemen during procession

Foyran · townland · Westmeath

A wayside cross on the Tullystown road near Foyran was torn up and flung aside by Orangemen during one of their processions; it was later restored by local Catholics.

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A large cross is said to have stood in the centre of Castlepollard. There is a cross at the grave-yard of Rathgraff, and two on the townland of Robinstown, on different roads leading to the old church. There are fragments of a way-side cross near Foyran, and another lower down on the Tullystown road, which the Orangemen, some years back, during one of their processions, tore up and flung on the side of the road. It was restored by the Catholics. There is a portion of another cross, erected many years ago by the family of Nugent, at the bridge of Ballinascartha.
Pastors since 1690.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Burial of Bishop Alexander Petit before the high altar, Trim

Trim · town · Meath · 1400

Alexander Petit, Bishop of Meath, was buried before the high altar of St. Mary's Abbey, Trim, in the year 1400, though the grave has since vanished amid the abbey's destruction.

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" Header, have you ever, as tourist or pilgrim, visited the old town of Trim, the capital of the once powerful palatinate of Meath ? It is situated on the banks of the historic Boyne, in the heart of a rich and beautiful country, encompased with ruins of churches, monasteries, and castles, whose grey, mouldering walls speak of ages long past and celebrities long forgotten. Of the many objects which attract attention, there is one in particular, the ' Yellow Steeple,' ' which, towering above all,' says Wilde, ' seems the guardian genius of the surrounding ruins.' This is all that remains of St. Mary's Abbey — a solitary link connecting us with the past. But where, you will ask, is the once gorgeous church, enriched with the votive offerings of a Catholic people, and where the abbey itself, so long the centre of stirring events ] Where is the grave of Alexander Petit, Bishop of Meath, who was buried here before the high altar, in the year 1400? Or where is the tomb of Donnell O'Fallon, Bishop of Derry, who preached with such effect throughout Ireland for thirty years ? Where sleep the abbots and canons of St. Mary's, and the numberless inhabitants of Trim, who, generation after generation, when worn down with the turmoil and cares of life, sought a resting place inside the abbey walls ? Alas ! abbey and church are gone ; the old walls have been
* For additional information on St. Mary's Abbey of Trim, the reader la referred to "Diocese of Meath — Ancient and Modern."

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 25

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Trim, on the banks of the Boyne. This was the capital of the once powerful palatinate of Meath, set in rich country, ringed with ruins of churches, monasteries, and castles. Their grey, mouldering walls speak of ages long past and celebrities long forgotten. Of all the objects that draw the eye, one stands out — the Yellow Steeple, which, as Wilde says, towering above all, seems the guardian genius of the surrounding ruins. It is all that remains of St. Mary's Abbey, a solitary link connecting us with the past. But where, the book asks, is the once gorgeous church, enriched with the votive offerings of a Catholic people, and where the abbey itself, so long the centre of stirring events? Where is the grave of Alexander Petit, Bishop of Meath, who was buried here before the high altar, in the year 1400? Or where is the tomb of Donnell O'Fallon, Bishop of Derry, who preached with such effect throughout Ireland for thirty years? Where sleep the abbots and canons of St. Mary's, and the numberless inhabitants of Trim, who, generation after generation, when worn down with the turmoil and cares of life, sought a resting place inside the abbey walls? Abbey and church are gone; the old walls have been carried away.

Carmelite Convent of Moate Turned into a Barrack in 1798

Moate · town · Westmeath · 1770–1798

The Carmelites founded a convent in Moate around 1770 on land granted by a Mr. Potts. During the rebellion of 1798, the chapel the friars built was turned into a barrack for soldiers, with part used as a stable for horses.

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members of the order, who discharged parochial duties in various parts of the diocese. About the year 1735, some of this order returned from Spain, and took up their abode in the neighbourhood of Moate, where they were supported for many years by the generous people of Westmeath. When the storm of persecution was about to cease, a Mr. Potts succeeded in getting the present site, about the year 1770 from one of the Clibborn family, and here the friars built a chapel which, in the year '98, was turned into a barrack for the soldiers, and a portion of it made use of as a stable for the horses. During some time the convent of Moate held so conspicuous a position amongst the Carmelite communities, that it was the noviciate of the order in Ireland.
Priws. — The Rev. Father Hilary was prior here ; he died P.P. of Kilconnell and Aughrim in 1817.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 28

As the companion tells it

As you come through Moate, you're passing a town with a Carmelite history. Members of the order returned from Spain around 1735 and settled near here, supported by the people of Westmeath. Around 1770, a Mr. Potts obtained land from the Clibborn family, and the friars built a chapel on the site. In 1798, that chapel was turned into a barrack for soldiers, with a portion used as a stable for horses. The convent at Moate became so prominent among Carmelite communities that it served as the noviciate of the order in Ireland. Father Hilary was prior here and later died as parish priest of Kilconnell and Aughrim in 1817.

Death and unmarked burial of Dr. Chevers at Donaghpatrick

Donaghpatrick · townland · Meath · 1778

Dr. Augustine Chevers, Bishop of Meath, died at Randalstown on 18 August 1778 in his ninety-second year and was buried on the south side of the old churchyard of Donaghpatrick. No tomb, headstone or slab was ever erected to mark his resting place, though an old man once pointed out the grave, recalling that his father had attended the funeral.

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f An old man pointed out the bishop's grave to the writer, a few years ago, and stated that his father, who had been with Dr. Chevers' funeral, often shewed him the green turf under which he rests.
174 THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. GEOGHEGAN.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 11

Dominicans of Drogheda take refuge at Rosnaree

Rosnaree · street · Limerick · 1690

When the Dominican friars were banished from Drogheda by the Williamites, they took refuge for several years in this parish, with a mud-walled thatched chapel on the townland of Rosnaree.

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* The Dominicans of Drogheda had a friary in this parish, and, when they were banished from Drogheda by the Williamites, took refuge for several years here. There was a chapel at Craieerath for Donore district, another mud-walled and thatched edifice on the townland of Rosnaree.
f I think this Father Dufl'y was translated here from the parish of Mayne, in. Westmeath.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 19

Galway Dominican nuns expelled, cloisters occupied by soldiers

Galway · city · Galway

The Dominican nuns of Galway were driven from their cloisters by merciless penal laws, and their consecrated dwelling was subsequently occupied by soldiers, dispersing the heart-broken nuns among relatives.

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STEPHEN MACEGAN, or Egan, was born in Dublin, about the year 1679, studied at Louvain, where he entered the Dominican order, and returned to Ireland in 1708. On his arrival in Dublin he found that the penal enactim-nts of 1698, and the untiring rigor with which they were enforced, had desolated the sanctuaries of Ireland and swept away almost every vestige of the Dominican institute. For some years after his arrival he officiated as curate in the then united parishes of St. James and St. Catherine, until, at length, he succeeded in acquiring a site for a chapel in Bridge-street, where for many years the Dominican Fathers preached and laboured for the salvation of the people. His next effort was to re-establish the Dominican nuns for the education of youth, and in this, too, notwithstanding the intolerance of the times, he was singularly successful. The Dominican cloisters of Gal way, from which the nuns had been driven by merciless laws,* were then occupied by soldiers, and the poor heartbroken nuns, expelled from their consecrated dwelling, were dispersed amongst their friends and relatives in various parts of the country. The Provincial of the on Icr, Very Rev. Hugh O'Calanan, collected eight, who were formed into a commmunity in March, 1717, arid who dwelt for some time in Fisher's-lane, until they were transferred to Channel-row, Dublin. Stephen MacEgan was principally instrumental in establishing them in Dublin, and for many years he was their confessor and general manager. On the 24th of July, 1721, MacEgan was elected Provincial of the Dominicans, under circumstances peculiarly memorable and impressive, as this was the first election in the Dominican order of Ireland since their expulsion in 1698. The meeting took place in Dublin, because, the population being large, the friars could more
* O'Heyn tells us that the lamentations and tears of th<? nuns, on this occasion, moved to compassion many of the heretics. — Hib. Dum. p. 351.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 10

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the city holds the memory of Dominican nuns driven from their cloisters by merciless penal laws. Their consecrated dwelling was then occupied by soldiers, and the poor heart-broken nuns were expelled and dispersed among friends and relatives in various parts of the country. This happened under the penal enactments of 1698, enforced with untiring rigor, which had desolated the sanctuaries of Ireland and swept away almost every vestige of the Dominican institute. A Dublin-born Dominican named Stephen MacEgan, born about 1679, studied at Louvain and returned to Ireland in 1708. He found the order in ruins. For some years he served as curate in the then united parishes of St. James and St. Catherine in Dublin, until he acquired a site for a chapel in Bridge-street, where the Dominican Fathers preached and laboured for many years. His next effort was to re-establish the Dominican nuns for the education of youth. The Provincial of the order, Very Rev. Hugh O'Calanan, collected eight of the dispersed nuns, who were formed into a community in March 1717. They dwelt for some time in Fisher's-lane, until they were transferred to Channel-row, Dublin. MacEgan was principally instrumental in establishing them there, and for many years served as their confessor and general manager. On the 24th of July 1721, MacEgan was elected Provincial of the Dominicans, the first such election in the order in Ireland since the expulsion of 1698.

Oliver Dease arrested and dies in exile during 1674 persecution

Meath · county · Meath · 1674

During the persecution of 1674, Dr. Oliver Dease, then advanced in years, was arrested and imprisoned, and liberated only on condition of exile. He died a few days after his release, as recorded by Dr. Plunket in a letter of October 1674.

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" The Vicar-General of Meath, Oliver Dease, after his liberation from prison, having given security that he would leave the kingdom, died a few days ago : he was Vicar-General for thirty-seven years, and a man of great prudence and virtue"
2. Dr. Mageogkegan — The Puritan Persecution.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 7

As the companion tells it

Passing through County Meath, this connects to Dr. Oliver Dease, Vicar-General of Meath for thirty-seven years. During the persecution of 1674, he was arrested and imprisoned, then released only on condition he leave the kingdom. He died a few days after his liberation, as Dr. Plunket recorded in a letter of October 1674.

Open-air Mass during persecution at Killucan

Killucan · town · Westmeath · 1700–1799

During the penal-era persecutions, Mass was celebrated in the open air in various parts of the parish of Killucan before chapels could be built.

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In the last century, during the persecutions, Mass was celebrated in the open air, in various parts of the parish.* The present chapel of Rathwire occupies the site of its predecessor; it was only a thatched edifice up to 1821, when the late pastor, Father Curran, got a portion of it slated ; it was enlarged and elevated by the present pastor, and the same may be said of the chapel of Raharny. They are both now commodious and substantial buildings.
Schools.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Peter Walsh Born at Moortown, Kildare

Moortown · townland · Kildare

The Rev. Peter Walsh, the Franciscan friar who later promoted the controversial Remonstrance, was born at Moortown, County Kildare, and later lectured on divinity in Kilkenny.

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2. The Rev. Peter Walsh, a Franciscan friar, was born at Moortown, County Kildare, graduated at Louvain, and subsequently lectured on divinity in Kilkenny. He was a man of unquestionable ability and learning, but vain, ambitious, factious, impatient of spiritual control ; a vindictive enemy, a venemous calumniator, and a semiapostate in his heart. His violent opposition to the Nuncio seems to have brought him under the notice of Ormond, who henceforth employed him as a convenient instrument in acquiring a knowledge of ecclesiastical matters, and in fomenting divisions. Walsh was a cringing sycophant, a vile, contemptible, time-serving slave, ready to betray church and country for courtly favour. He slandered the living and the dead, apparently without scruple or remorse ; and he was the affliction and scourge of all true ecclesiastics while he lived. Ormond was worthy of the renegade, and the slave reflected no discredit on the master.
In the winter of 1660, Walsh wrote from London to the prelates and dignitaries of the Irish Church, reminding them of the necessity of forwarding congratulatory and supplicatory addresses to his Majesty, on the occasion of his Restoration. There were then only three bishops in Ireland — viz., Dr.Edmond O'Reilly, Archbishop of Armagh; Dr. Mageoghegan, of Meath ; and Dr. Owen Swiney, the decrepid and bed-ridden Bishop of Kilmore. The other surviving prelates were scattered throughout Europe, eating the bitter bread of exile, banished from their flocks, and looking forward to the day when they could return to their desolate missions, and sleep their long sleep in the graves of holy Ireland. Dr. Burke, Archbishop of Tuam ; Dr. Barry, of Cork ; Dr. Plunket, of Ardagh ; and Dr. Lynch, of Kilfenora, were in France ; Dr. French, of Ferns, was in Spain ; Dr. Lynch, of Clonfert, was in Hungary ; and, a little later, Dr. O'Reilly, of Armagh, was banished, and took refuge in Rome. Owing to the calamitous necessity of the times, and the known influence which

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 7

Priest arrested in vestments at the Moate of Ballyboy

Ballyboy · townland · Offaly

In the early part of the last century Mass was celebrated in the open air beside the Moate of Ballyboy, and tradition tells of a priest being arrested in his vestments while celebrating the sacred ceremonies there.

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In the parish of Ballyboy Mass was celebrated, in the early part of the last century, in the open air, ;•.!>! inside the Moate of Ballyboy. There is a tradition still vivid amongst the people, of a priest having been arrested in his vestments, while celebrating the sacred ceremonies. There was an old chapel at Ballyfarrell, never roofed.
* Kiiloghy means the Church of St. Eochy.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 28

Spoliated Church and Exterminated People at Clonarney

Clonarney · townland · Westmeath

The shell of the old church at Clonarney measures fifty-four feet nine inches by sixteen, with only the roots of three walls remaining and a portion of the old belfry standing. The grey walls, now surrounded by flocks and herds, are said to tell a sad tale of a spoliated church and an exterminated people.

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Clonarney. — The shell of the old church measures fiftyfour feet nine inches by sixteen ; the east, north, and south sides have been torn down ; only the roots remain. A portion of the old belfry stands at the west end. The grey walls of this ancient sanctuary, surrounded by flocks and herds, tell a sad tale of a spoliated church and an exterminated people.
Killallon. — This church was dedicated to St. Bartholomew, and of its ancient pastors we find Rev. Conrad Westenefield, who was succeeded by Rev. Thomas De Everdon, a Canon of St. Patrick, Master of the Rolls, and for a time, acting Lord Chancellor of Ireland. (Pat. 49 Edward III. & 9, Ric. II.) The grey old walls of Killallon are almost gone. The chancel arch stands 31 feet from the east end ; the nave is fifty-four feet by twenty feet two inches internally. In the east end of the cemetery there is a headstone with the following inscription:

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 20

Statue of the Virgin at Navan Abbey Venerated by Pilgrims

Navan · town · Meath

The image or statue of the Blessed Virgin kept at the Abbey of Navan was among the objects of popular veneration in the diocese before the Reformation, attracting pilgrims from all parts of the island where miracles were reportedly performed.

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the monuments of the faith and piety of our forefathers were subjected to indignity, robbery, and defilement; how the Catholic feelings of the people were recklt^ly outraged, and how, as if a horde of Goths or Vandals swept over the land, nothing remained but dismal ruin and desolation to mark the progress of the Reformation. Amongst the many objects of popular veneration at this time in the diocese, were the images or statues of the Blessed Virgin in the Abbeys of Navan and Trim,* and the image of Chiist crucified, in the Abbey of Ballybogan. Pilgrims, rich and poor, from all parts of the island, periodically resorted to these places of devotion. Miracles were performed here century after centmy, as our annalists testify ; and great, assuredly, must have been the horror and indignation of the people when such cheri>ln-<l objects of reverence, hallowed by so many sacred memories, were ruthlessly subjected to insult and destruction. Sir James Ware's Annals p. 99, thus summarise the wanton barbarity of such proceedings :
" About this time, amongst the famous images whereunto pilgrimages were made, the statue of the Blessed Virgin was burned, then kept at Trim, in the abbey of the canons regular, and tJie gifts of the pilgrims were taken away from thence. The image of Christ crucified, in the Abbey of Ballybogan, and St. Patrick's Staff, in the cathedral church of the Holy Trinity at Dublin . . . underwent the like fate."

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 5

As the companion tells it

As you come through Navan, this was one of the places where, before the Reformation, people came on pilgrimage to venerate a statue of the Blessed Virgin kept at the abbey here. Pilgrims, rich and poor, from all parts of the island periodically resorted to these places of devotion. The statue at Navan and another at Trim, along with the image of Christ crucified in the Abbey of Ballybogan, were among the objects of popular veneration in the diocese. Miracles were performed at these places century after century, as the annalists testify. These cherished objects were hallowed by many sacred memories. Then the Reformation swept over the land, and as the book describes it, nothing remained but dismal ruin and desolation. The monuments of faith were subjected to indignity, robbery, and defilement. Great must have been the horror and indignation of the people when such revered objects were ruthlessly destroyed. Sir James Ware, in his Annals, records what happened. He says that about this time, among the famous images whereunto pilgrimages were made, the statue of the Blessed Virgin kept at Trim was burned, and the gifts of the pilgrims were taken away. The image of Christ crucified in the Abbey of Ballybogan underwent the same fate, as did St. Patrick's Staff in the cathedral church of the Holy Trinity at Dublin.

The Chapel Bell Suspended from a Tree on the Moat of Delvin

Delvin · town · Westmeath

During Father James Moran's time, a chapel-bell was hung from an old tree atop the moat of Delvin, remaining there until a great storm blew it down; a belfry was later built but authorities forbade ringing it except to call people to Mass, while the Protestant bell alone was allowed to announce deaths and funerals for fees.

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The Rev. James Moran, a native of Navan, was appointed pastor on the day of the death of his predecessor. He was a very zealous man, and his memory is held in deserved esteem. In his time a chapel-bell was suspended from an old tree, on top of the moat of Delvin, where it remained until blown down by a great storm, between forty and fifty years ago. It was afterwards put up in a belfry specially erected for that purpose, but the authorities would not allow it to be rung unless to call the people on Sundays to Mass. The Protestant bell reserved to itself the right of announcing deaths and funerals, for which the sexton received fees ; and this abuse continued until a Catholic curate J put a final stop to such humbug and fraud.
The Rev. James Moran died, at an advanced age, early

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Buried font tradition at Monkstown church

Monkstown · townland · Cork

At the old church of Monkstown, part of the walls were torn down to build a graveyard stile, and tradition holds that the old baptismal font was buried by a friendly hand long ago to save it from destruction; its location is now unknown.

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This old church* measures fifty-nine feet three inches, internally, by thirteen feet four inches. Some of the walls of the church have been torn down to construct a stile or entrance to the grave-yard — a practice very reprehensible and which should be discouraged by all. There are stones enough to be had without sacrilegiously invading the ancient sanctuaries of our country. There is a tradition here that the old baptismal font was buried many years ago, by some friendly hand, to save it from iconoclasm. The location is now unknown.
Staff or dstown.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 18

Curate dies of typhoid fever contracted on duty at Multifarnham

Fearbranagh or Multyfarnham · townland · Westmeath · 1862

Rev. Bartholomew Moore, curate of Multifarnham, died of typhoid fever caught in the discharge of his sacred duties, aged 24, after only six months of ministry, and is commemorated by two monuments in the chapel.

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who died on the 3rd of April, 1862, of typhoid fever,
caught in the discharge of his sacred duties,

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Destruction of old church and tombstones at Moorechurch

Moorechurch · townland · Meath · 1854

About 1854, the walls of the old church at Moorechurch were torn down, tombstones uprooted and broken, and all material carried away for building purposes. The author laments this desecration of the dead and ancient monuments.

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There was a chapel here, in the parish of Mora or Moorechurch, dedicated to St. Peter.* This sanctuary was subsequently called " Castle Chapel," which the soldiers of Cromwell in their march to Drogheda dismantled. There is a vault here, in which mass was celebrated in the days of persecution ; it served also a hiding place for the clergy. About the year 1854, the walls of the old church were torn down, the tombstones were uprooted and broken ; and all were carried away for building purposes. I am at a loss to conceive why the clergy or gentry of this neighbourhood tolerated such wanton desecration of the dead. Why was not this Vandal prosecuted and held up to public indignation, for defacing our ancient monuments and dishonouring the dead ? If a bough were lopped off a tree — if a hare or pheasant were captured, by a poor hungry peasant, the rights of property would be invoked, the game laws quickly set in motion, and a 'magisterial rebuke, followed by pains and penalties, administered to the unhappy delinquent ; but the dead may be insulted, their bones exhumed, and their monuments broken, without exciting the indignation or moving to action the very class who, in a healthy state of society, would be the protectors of the people, the guardians and avengers of the honor of tJieir country.
Pastors since 1690.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 19

Dr. Luke Fagan's secret refuge during Penal Laws

Meath · county · Meath · 1713–1729

Bishop Luke Fagan, consecrated Bishop of Meath in 1713, had to conceal his whereabouts due to the Penal Code and priest-hunters. His letters were dated only 'e loco refugii nostri' (from our place of refuge), a location known only to close associates.

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LUKE FAGAX was born in the parish of Castlepollard, County Westmeath, of a respectable old family ; studied in Seville, in Spain, officiated as parish priest of Baldoyle, County Dublin, and was consecrated Bishop of Meath in 1713. Of the various acts of the episcopacy, and the trials to which he was subjected, we have no detailed account, in consequence of the rigid enforcement of the Penal Code, which necessitated on his part the strictest caution and concealment; and hence, the few letters written by him, which have reached our day, are dated, " e loco rcfuyii nostri," which place of shelter, or refuge, was known only to his vicars and curates, and to a few
* From Dublin 153 friars were sent abroad ; 170 from Gal way, 75 from Cork, and 26 from Waterford. Did these misguided fanatics imagine that they could thus transport the Catholic Church from Ireland ?

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 10

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Meath, you are moving through the diocese once led by Luke Fagan, consecrated Bishop of Meath in 1713. Born in Castlepollard, County Westmeath, of a respectable old family, he studied in Seville and served as parish priest of Baldoyle before his consecration. Under the Penal Code, priest-hunters made open ministry dangerous, so he kept his whereabouts hidden. The few letters of his that survive are dated only "e loco refugii nostri"—from our place of refuge—a shelter known only to his vicars and curates, and to a few others.

Father Ferrall imprisoned and Dr. Plunket arrested in Dublin

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1666

In May 1666 Rev. Christopher Ferrall landed in Dublin carrying letters to Dr. Plunket from Rome; Ormond's spies intercepted this, leading to Ferrall's imprisonment and Dr. Plunket's arrest and interrogation before Ormond.

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clergy and laity some ease and liberty to exercise those functions of their respective vocations, which seem not consistent with the present law of the land." The letter next points out the absence of any guarantee of safety to the prelates who would journey to the meeting ; and remarks that, even should Ormond connive at a Synod, still, as there was no special authorisation, there was consequently no protection against the Cromwellian troopers or bigoted fanatics of the day. In the meantime the Holy See was naturally apprehensive lest the small number who would attend the Synod, the total absence of freedom, and the terrorism sure to be exercised by the Government, might lead to events derogatory to the honor of our Church. In May, 1666, the Rev. Christopher Ferrall, a Dominican friar, landed in Dublin with letters to Dr. Plunket from Cardinal Barbarini and the Internuncio of Flanders. Ormond's spies, ever active and unscrupulous, acquainted their master, and this led to the imprisonment of Father Ferrall, and the arrest of Dr. Plunket. When the bishop was brought a prisoner before Ormond, the letters were demanded of him ; but on examination they were found to contain merely an exhortation, or warning, to the clergy not to allow their temporal allegiance to trench on or prejudice their faith.* On the morning of the 9th of June, as the prelates were arriving, Walsh waited on Dr. Plunket, and urged him to have a deputation sent to the Lord Lieutenant, for the purpose of returning thanks for his permission, or connivance, at their meeting, and also of acknowledging as true all the crimes laid to their charge since the uprising of 1641. We shall allow the Procurator to state the case in Ms own wordy way :^f*
" I said that in my opinion the Fathers should, in the first place, depute some of their body to acquaint his Grace with their being assembled : then to render humble thanks for his Majesty's permission of, or connivance at, their meeting : and together also to present a petition to his Grace, wherein, after

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 8

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dublin, this is where, in May 1666, the Reverend Christopher Ferrall, a Dominican friar, landed carrying letters to Doctor Plunket from Cardinal Barbarini and the Internuncio of Flanders. Ormond's spies, ever active and unscrupulous, learned of it and brought word to their master. This led to the imprisonment of Father Ferrall and the arrest of Doctor Plunket. When the bishop was brought a prisoner before Ormond, the letters were demanded of him. On examination they were found to contain merely an exhortation, or warning, to the clergy not to allow their temporal allegiance to trench on or prejudice their faith. There had been unease from the Holy See about a proposed Synod. The letter pointed out the absence of any guarantee of safety to the prelates who would journey to the meeting, and remarked that even should Ormond connive at a Synod, there was no special authorisation, and consequently no protection against the Cromwellian troopers or bigoted fanatics of the day. The Holy See was apprehensive that the small number who would attend, the total absence of freedom, and the terrorism sure to be exercised by the Government might lead to events derogatory to the honour of the Church. On the morning of the 9th of June, as the prelates were arriving, Walsh waited on Doctor Plunket and urged him to have a deputation sent to the Lord Lieutenant, to return thanks for his permission, or connivance, at their meeting, and also to acknowledge as true all the crimes laid to their charge since the uprising of 1641. The Procurator put the case in his own words: he said the Fathers should depute some of their body to acquaint his Grace with their being assembled, then render humble thanks for his Majesty's permission or connivance at their meeting.

Fortune-Teller Scandal at Galtrim

Galtrim · townland · Meath · 1788

In his visitation sermon at Galtrim, the bishop condemned parishioners who had resorted to a fortune-teller, describing it as a scandal comparable to the danger of bad company.

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„ 5. Galtrim (Rev. Richard Meighan), 32 confirmed. Three schools. — On the leprosy of sin, and its contagion, exemplified by the danger and certain mischief of bad company; and on the scandal given by some of the flock who resorted to a fortune-teller.
„ 6. Rathmullian (Rev. Pat Harte;, 39 confirmed. Four schools ; two chapels repaired. — Sermon : On the Transfiguration of our Lord, and two subjects of instruction which it furnishes — viz., the exercise of prayer, during which our Lord was transfigured; and patience and courage under trials, in the view of the glory of heaven.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 15

Franciscans of Multyfarnham Scattered

Fearbranagh or Multyfarnham · townland · Westmeath · 1651

Rev. Anthony Nugent's 1651 letter describes how the Franciscans of Multifarnham were all scattered when the Puritans took control, forcing him to abandon his brother and Westmeath.

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" Since it pleased divine Providence to give victory to the Puritans on every side, we are scattered, each one seeking, as best he can, to evade the search of our enemies ; and as these have all Ireland now in their hands (with the exception of Limerick — which, however, is closely beseiged — and of Galway and Athlone, which will certainly fall during the summer), no ecclesiastic can anywhere appear in public ; for neither by reward nor intercession can the Puritans be induced to tolerate any priest in the country. On account of this I was compelled to abandon my brother and Westmeath, where all the Franciscans of Multifarnam were all scattered, and especially those that had remained in their monastery. I then passed into Meath, where I remained some time ; being recognized, however, I fled to Dublin, where I lived as a gardener, until a :!
* Historical Sketch, p. 110. f Eisiorkal Skcldi, pp. 163, l(^, 167.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 7

Galtrim church and its ancient lordship

Galtrim · townland · Meath · 841

Galtrim, anciently Caltruim, was a place of note; in 841 AD Maelduin, Lord of Galtrim, was taken prisoner by the Danes. An ancient church dedicated to the Blessed Virgin stood here, later uprooted with a Protestant church built on the site.

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Galtrim, anciently called Caltruim, was a place of note in former tunes. Our annalists record that in A.D. 841, Maelduin, Lord of Galtrim, was taken prisoner by the Danes. A church was erected here at a very remote period, which was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin. Thomas de Meelton was rector of this church in the time of Edward III.— (Pat. 20, Edward III.) John Sway no was rector. — (Pat. 2, Henry V.} In 1417 he was consecrated, in Rome, Archbishop of Armagh. In the reign of Henry VI. John Randolf was rector. — (Pat. 3, Hen. VI)
After the Husseys got possession of this property, they received the title of Baron* and claimed the advowson of

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 25

Grave-yard desecration and cattle at Moorechurch cemetery

Moorechurch · townland · Meath

The cemetery on the north side of the sanctuary at Moorechurch had become a mass of filth from free access of cattle, and gravestones had been carried off for building materials, prompting the author's condemnation of those who dishonour the dead.

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is situated on an elevated and beautiful site which commands an extensive view of the surrounding country. The old church measures about eighty-three feet by twenty-seven feet four inches ; the choir-arch, or roodscreen, is about twenty feet in height to the vertex, by sixteen feet six inches at the base. This rectory belonged to St. Mary's Abbey, Duleek. There is a monument here to the three Father Boylans (see vol. i., p. 183). There is a cemetery on the north side of the sanctuary, now a mass of filth,^ from the free access of cattle, on the wall of which was placed a stone; at present lying in the body of the church, which has on it inscribed :
" Here under Lyethe

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 19

Green grave of an unknown priest at Castle-Kieran

Castlekeeran · townland · Meath

Near the termon-cross at the abbey-church of Castle-Kieran, in the parish of Loghan, there is a green grave marking the resting place of a priest whose name is now unknown; coffins are still rested there during interments while the De Profundis is intoned.

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Loghan. — The old church has been torn down and uprooted. There was a holy well here dedicated to St. Anne. The ruins of the abbey-church of Castle-Kieran are situated in the parish of Loghan. — (See vol. i. pp. 124, 125). Convenient to the termon-cross, on the south-side, there is a green grave, marking the resting-place of a priest, name now unknown, on which, at interments, the coffin is deposited, while the JDe Profundis is being entoned.
Dulane. — This old church presents every appearance of antiquity. The chancel has been torn down. The nave measures thirty feet by twenty-one. There is a plain doorway on the west end, surmounted by an immense block of stone ; another entrance on the south side seems to have been more modern. The baptismal font lies to the north of the church. It is a large stone with sides inclining, about three feet in height, and measures internally one foot ten inches by ten inches. Here stood the ancient abbey of Tuilen, or Tulan, founded by St. Cairnigh in the sixth century. The grey walls of the venerable sanctuary, in the last stage of desolation, encompassed by a rich and beautiful country, cannot fail to speak to the heart of the pilgrim, and remind him of the once happy days of Ireland.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 20

Holy well at Foyran nearly destroyed by fire in an ash tree

Foyran · townland · Westmeath

A holy well called Tober-Aidan, or Bishop Hugh's well, sits in a field near Foyran churchyard beneath an ancient ash tree; the tree's hollow interior was nearly consumed by fire after a man left his lit pipe inside it.

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J An aged ash-tree of immense dimensions has grown over the well, the interior of which was completely consumed a few years ago in consequence of a man kindling his i>ipt- ;md leaving it ignited in the hollow of the tree. After a long walk on a hot mnmier'* day, the weary pilgrim or traveller will appreciate the luxury of a seat under the shade of the old trte, while lie gazes at the sparkling waters.
DEANERY OF MULLINGAR — CASTLEPOLLARD. 401

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Kilbeggan Cistercian Abbey completely uprooted

Kilbeggan · town · Westmeath

The Cistercian Abbey at Kilbeggan has been completely uprooted so that not a stone remains; its site is now a green field, with the abbey church represented only by a mound called 'the Church of the Relic.'

Read the passage

once of considerable importance, and returned two members to the Irish Parliament, till the time of the ill-fated Union, when it was disfranchised, and £15,000 awarded as compensation to Gustavus Lambert, Esq., the proprietor. The Cistercian Abbey has been completely uprooted, so that not a stone remains of that once magnificent and frequented structure. The site of the monastery is now a green field. There were two churches here — the abbey church and parochial church. The one is represented by a green mound called " the Church of the Relic/' and the other is occupied by the present Protestant edifice. All ancient traces of Catholicity have been swept away, so that not a vestige remains, unless the cross of Christ on the modern tomb-stones of the faithful.
Rdthhugh, or Rahue. — The old church measures sixtysix feet by eighteen feet four inches. The situation is charming, and there is an air of antiquity and reverence around the hallowed walls. The cemetery is extensive, and amongst the many tomb-stones, there is one, a gem in its way, which will interest the reader. It commemorates a young, zealous priest, who officiated for a short time in Kilbeggan, and joined the archdiocese of Dublin :

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 28

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kilbeggan in Westmeath, there is little to show of what stood here once. This town returned two members to the Irish Parliament until the Union, when it was disfranchised and 15,000 pounds in compensation went to Gustavus Lambert, the proprietor. The Cistercian Abbey has been completely uprooted, so that not a stone remains of that once magnificent and frequented structure. The site of the monastery is now a green field. There were two churches here, the abbey church and the parochial church. The abbey church is represented by a green mound called the Church of the Relic, and the parochial church is occupied by the present Protestant edifice. All ancient traces of Catholicity have been swept away, so that not a vestige remains, unless the cross of Christ on the modern tombstones of the faithful.

Monument erected to Bishop Dease in Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1651–1652

Sir Richard Bellings, a friend of the deceased bishop, had a monument erected to Dr. Dease's memory in Galway, for which he composed a lengthy Latin inscription praising the bishop's virtues.

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When the Parliamentary forces were swarming over the country, Dr. Dease, with many others, took refuge in Galway, and was hospitably received in the Jesuit College, where he died, during the siege of that city, in 1651-2.* His remains were interred under the threshold of the sacristy of the collegiate church of St. Nicholas, Galway ; and his friend, Sir Richard Bellings, had a monument erected to his memory, for which he composed the following inscription :*f*
" In lachrymas oculos Hibernia solve cadatque Hsec Hecatombe super preesulis ossa tui Hie pius prudens regi sua jura Deoque Reddere callebat doctus utroque foro Bella fideni regnum cssco discrimme cuncta Miscebant fixa sed stetit ilia petra Laeta illi gravitas et mentis amabile pondus Eloquio dulcis grandis et Ingenio Internae vultus rutilabat gratia flamma3 Illi ardens zelus sed ratione sagax Extra talis erat luberet penetrare sed intus Occurret seraphim cor in igne micans Tanta illi castse semper custodia mentis Ut libare Deo promptus ubique foret Si fletu posset revocari talis in auras Prsesul in eternum lumen utrumque fleret."

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 6

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a city where Dr. Dease took refuge when the Parliamentary forces were swarming over the country. He was hospitably received in the Jesuit College, and he died there during the siege of the city in 1651 to 1652. His remains were interred under the threshold of the sacristy of the collegiate church of St. Nicholas in Galway. His friend Sir Richard Bellings had a monument erected to his memory, and Bellings composed the Latin inscription for it himself. The inscription calls on Ireland to weep over the bishop's bones, praises him as pious and prudent, learned in both courts, a man whose steadfast faith held firm while war and kingdom were in turmoil. It speaks of his gravity and gentle mind, his eloquence, his zeal guided by reason, and the constant purity of his mind that made him ready to serve God at all times. The inscription closes with the wish that, if such a bishop could be called back, Ireland would weep forever.

O'Rafferty founds Convent of Mercy and takes part in Repeal agitation at Tullamore

Tullamore · town · Offaly · 1820–1857

James O'Rafferty was translated to Tullamore in August 1820, where he became Vicar-General of Meath, enlarged and decorated the chapel, founded the Convent of Mercy, and took a conspicuous part in the Repeal agitation, becoming a man of great influence in the King's County.

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Very Rev. James O'Rafferty succeeded. This pastor was born in the neighbourhood of Kinnegad, studied in Navan and Maynooth, and received ordination* from Dr. Troy, on the 27th of May, 1809. He officiated as curate in Navan, under Dr. Plunket; was appointed pastor of Frankford on the 10th of May, 1814; and, in August, 1820, was translated to Tullamore, where in course of time he became Vicar-General of Meath, and Master of Conference for the Deanery of Clara. He enlarged and decorated the chapel of Tullamore, founded the Convent of Mercy, built the chapel of Durrow, and took a conspicuous part in the Repeal agitation. He was a man of great influence in the King's County, and was noted for unbounded hospitality. He died, greatly regretted, on the 22nd of June, 1857, and was buried, after due honor and celebration, in the chapel of Durrow, where a monument commemorates him with the following inscription :
* Ordination certificato in my possession.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 28

Richard Mageoghegan, Heroic Defender of Dunboy Castle

near Dunboy · street · Cork

Richard Mageoghegan, of the distinguished Mageoghegan sept associated with Castletown-Geoghegan, was renowned as the heroic defender of the Castle of Dunboy during the wars of Elizabeth.

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The Mageoghegans were, unquestionably, a very distinguished family in the annals of Ireland, and were renowned for their personal bra very and resistance to foreign rule. The wars of Elizabeth brought to light no "braver soldier than Richard Mageoghegan, the heroic defender of the Castle of Dunboy. — (See Pacata Hibernia ; O'Sullivan's Hint. <!uth. ; Irish Histories, i assim ; Dunboy, and other Poems, by T. J). Sullivan.) In tho last century there was a celebrated personage in Castletown, a descendant of the old sept, named John Mageognegan, familiarly known as " J.ick the Buck," from his great skill in the use of fire-arms and other weapons, and his success in duelling. He was not only singularly brave and i but also generous, unselfish, and warm-hearted, and very eerentrie — qualities which went far to counteract prejudices, and to procure for him many friends. lie was the avenger of his race, and lie guarded with ,j--ii" the honor of his family and the interests of the Catholic religion. It' any of the descendants of the Cromwellian or Williamite adventurers who suc- .•••s from which his ancestors h;id been driven dared to insult the Catholic church, ort-i persecute the clergy, a challenge was certain to proceed fn ... and if that were not duly attended to,
PEANERYOF MULLINGAR — CASTLETOWN-GEOGHEGAN. 419

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Dunboy, Richard Mageoghegan made his stand. He was of the Mageoghegan sept, a family the annals call distinguished and known for resisting foreign rule. During the wars of Elizabeth, no braver soldier came to light than him, the heroic defender of the Castle of Dunboy. The sources for his fame include Pacata Hibernia and O'Sullivan's history, among others. The family seat was at Castletown-Geoghegan, and in the 1700s a descendant named John Mageoghegan still lived there. People called him Jack the Buck, for his skill with firearms and his record in duelling. He was brave, generous, warm-hearted, and eccentric, and he guarded the honour of his family and the interests of the Catholic religion. If anyone among the descendants of the Cromwellian or Williamite settlers who had taken the lands his ancestors were driven from dared to insult the Catholic church or persecute the clergy, a challenge was certain to follow from him.

Rinuccini's ceremonial entry into Limerick

Limerick · city · Limerick · 1645

At the close of October 1645, Rinuccini entered the city of Limerick with a formal escort of clergy and civic and military authorities, marking the beginning of his mission in Ireland.

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close of October he entered the city of Limerick, escorted by the clergy, the civic and military authorities ; and in November he joined the Supreme Council, at Kilkenny. His arrival was hailed with every manifestation of joy and thankfulness, and his presence elicited the utmost enthusiasm amongst all classes of society. On his visit to Lord Mountgarret, President of the Supreme Council, he declared that " the object of his mission was to sustain the King, then so perilously circumstanced ; but, above all, to rescue from pains and penalties the people of Ireland, and to assist them in securing the free and public exercise of the Catholic religion, and the restoration of the churches and church property, of which fraud and violence had so long deprived their rightful inheritors." When the Nuncio arrived in Ireland, he found the confederates divided — viz., the old Irish and the clergy on the one side, and the lords and gentry of the Pale on the other. The former were resolved on a prosecution of the war until perfect freedom was restored to their religion, unfettered by any penal clause or enactment, and until the people recovered the property of which they had been unjustly deprived ; the latter, composed for the most part of the kinsmen, dependants, and creatures of Ormond, an active and influential minority, placed unbounded reliance on the promises and good intentions of that unscrupulous diplomatist. The fathers of some of these lay-lords had profited by the plunder of the church in the time of Henry VIII. ; monastic property was incorporated with their ancestral estates ; and they were apprehensive lest, if the Church were restored to its full rights, they would be obliged to disgorge their ill-gotten goods. They wished, moreover, to have the Church subordinate to themselves; and, hence, all they wanted from Ormond was a guarantee of their estates, and a toleration of, or connivance at, the exercise of their religion. The oath of association, the very groundwork of the confederacy, uniting all parties for the freedom of religion and the protection of their common interests, determined the Nuncio as to the course he should adopt. From the very onset he penetrated the schemes

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 6

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Limerick, this is the city where Rinuccini made his ceremonial entry at the close of October 1645. He came escorted by the clergy and the civic and military authorities, and his arrival was met with every manifestation of joy and thankfulness across all classes of society. He had come as papal nuncio, and his mission, as he declared on a visit to Lord Mountgarret, President of the Supreme Council, was to sustain the King, then so perilously circumstanced, but above all to rescue the people of Ireland from pains and penalties and to assist them in securing the free and public exercise of the Catholic religion, and the restoration of the churches and church property of which fraud and violence had so long deprived their rightful inheritors. What he found when he arrived was a confederacy already divided. The old Irish and the clergy stood on one side, resolved to prosecute the war until perfect freedom of religion was restored and the people recovered the property of which they had been unjustly deprived. On the other side stood the lords and gentry of the Pale, largely kinsmen and dependants of Ormond, who placed unbounded reliance on the promises of that diplomatist. Many of these lay lords' fathers had profited from the plunder of the church in the time of Henry the Eighth, and monastic property had been incorporated into their ancestral estates. They feared that a full restoration of the Church would force them to disgorge those ill-gotten goods. In November, Rinuccini joined the Supreme Council at Kilkenny, having already penetrated the schemes at work among the confederates.

Ruined church of Killegland with thorn and palm tree

Killegland · street · Meath

The church of Killegland has been torn down leaving only the root of the walls, measuring seventy feet by twenty feet ten inches; a white-thorn tree has grown up within the body of the church and an aged palm-tree marks the site of the altar, near which lies the tomb of Dr. Michael Plunket.

Read the passage

This union comprises the parishes of Ratoath, Cookstown, Killegland, and Rathbeggan, all of which are situated in the barony of Ratoath. The old churches of Ratoath and Rathbeggan have been uprooted, and Protestant places of worship erected on their sites. The church of Killegland, Killeylan, or Kilmeylan, has been torn down, so that only the root of the walls remains. It measured seventy feet by twenty feet ten inches. A white-thorn tree has grown up in the body of the church, and an aged palm-tree marks the site of the altar. Near this, and sheltered by its branches, lies the horizontal monument which marks the resting-place of Dr. Michael Plunket.
Pastors (continwd).

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 25

State of parish churches in the diocese of Meath, 1576

Meath · county · Meath · 1576

Lord Deputy Sidney reported to Elizabeth I on the ruinous condition of the 224 parish churches of the diocese of Meath, noting most curates were poorly educated and many church buildings were falling down. He used this as evidence of the broader failure of the Reformation in Ireland.

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" There are within this diocese 224 parish churches, of which number 105 are impropriated to sundry possessions ; no parson or vicar resident upon any of them, and a very simple or sorry curate, for the most part, appointed to serve them ; among which number of curates only eighteen were found able to speak English, the rest being Irish ministers, or rather Irish rogues, having very little Latin, and still less learning and civility.
In many places the very walls of the churches

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 5

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Meath, in 1576 the diocese here had 224 parish churches, and Lord Deputy Sidney reported to Elizabeth I that most were in a sorry state. 105 had no resident parson or vicar, only what he called "a very simple or sorry curate." Of all those curates, just 18 could speak English. The rest he dismissed as "Irish rogues" with little learning. In many places, the very walls of the churches were falling down.

Tyrrellspass chapel built on site of historic drawbridge

Tyrrellspass · town · Westmeath · 1865

The chapel of Tyrrellspass was erected on a small hill that once served as the eastern buttress for a drawbridge contested by Captain Tyrrell and Barnwall during the wars of Hugh O'Neill. Rev. Joseph Coyne was ordained there in 1865 by Dr Nulty.

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The chapel of Tyrrellspass* was erected a few years ago, owing principally to the exertions of Rev. Mr. Carey. It is situated on a small hill, which at one time served as the eastern buttress on which rested the drawbridge for the possession of which Captain Tyrrell and Barnwall contended in the wars of Hugh O'Neill. In this chapel was ordained, by Dr Nulty, on the 10th of September, 1865, the Rev. Joseph Coyne, a native of Tyrrellspass, an alumnus of Navan and Maynooth, where his abilities won the highest literary honors. He is at present Professor of the English department and Bursar in the Seminary of Navan ; and the author takes this opportunity to express his thankful acknowledgements for much valuable information communicated respecting Westmeath.
Pastors since 1690.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

As the companion tells it

Just ahead is Tyrrellspass, and its chapel stands on a small hill that once served as the eastern buttress for a drawbridge. Captain Tyrrell and Barnwall fought for possession of that bridge during the wars of Hugh O'Neill. The chapel itself was erected mainly through the efforts of Reverend Mr. Carey. On the 10th of September 1865, Dr Nulty ordained Reverend Joseph Coyne there. Coyne was a native of Tyrrellspass, an alumnus of Navan and Maynooth, where his abilities won the highest literary honours.

Ballyboggan Abbey reduced to a fragment

Ballyboggan · townland · Meath

Once a magnificent abbey, Ballyboggan now survives only as a quadrangular building measuring 187 by 25 feet, with the other walls levelled and stones carried away. The churchyard contains tombs of several priests including Rev. John Hoey.

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Clonard is gone — monastery and church ; not a stone remains. A Protestant house of worship is built on the site. All that remains of the once magnificent abbey of Ballyboggan is a quadrangular building measuring one hundred and eighty -seven feet by twenty-five. The other walls have been levelled, and the stones carried away. In the church-yard of Ballyboggan there is a tomb to the memory of Rev. John Hoey, Rev. Thomas White, Rev. Daniel Ennis, Rev. Thady Grehan, and Rev. Gerald O'Reilly. The Rev. Michael Brawdor, who died on the 2nd of June, 1781, is also interred here.
The old church of Castlejordan has been uprooted, and succeeded by a Protestant place of worship. The old church of Tycroghan measures thirty-five feet nine inches by sixteen feet six inches. It seems to have been used for Protestant service some years back. The church-yard of Kilkeran* was pulled down ; an aged ash-tree spreads its branches over the altar-site. The church of Garv has likewise been torn down. The old church of Templeavy measures thirty-six and a-half feet by fourteen and a-half ; it is, like the rest, a complete ruin. There was a vast number of churches in this union, and that of Kinnegad, but most of these have been pulled down, uprooted, and their grave-yards converted into pasture land. Ireland is a conquered country.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Capuchins established at Slane

Slane · townland · Meath · 1631

In 1631 a branch of the Capuchin order was introduced into Slane, County Meath, under the patronage of the Catholic Fleming family, despite penal laws against clergy.

Read the passage

everywhere crqpsvned. In 1631 he had the satisfaction of seeing a branch of the order introduced into Slane, County Meath, and patronised by the Catholic house of Fleming. In 1633 the Capuchins were established in Mullingar, and, in 163o, Dr. Dease published a highly complimentary circular* on the occasion of their introduction into Drogheda, Meath side of the Boyne. Thus, notwithstanding the penal laws, the intolerance of the Prostestant bishops, the proclamations of successive Lord-Deputies, ordering the clergy out of the kingdom, under the severest penalties, and the ferocious bigotry of all the agents of the Government^ Dr. Dease had Augustinians, Franciscans, Domi-
* Nos Thomas Dease Dei et Sedis Apostolicse Gratia, Episcopus Midensis. Ad majorem Dei gloriam, et Fidei, ac Religionis Catholicae augmentum volentes prospicere fructibus, et laboribus Fratrum Minorum Sancti Francisci Capucinorum, Missionis et Nationis Hiberniae, qui a pluribus jam annis in hoc Regno Hibernise pro animarnm conversione graviter insudamnt, libenter assentimur, quatenus dicti Patres in Civitate nostra Pontanensi lociim, residentiam, et Conventum procnrare, et stabilire queant, in quo verbo, et exemplo, coram Deo, et omni populo lucere possint ; cum nobis constet eosdem PP. ibidem ali posse in competenti numero sine detrimento aliorum Religiosonim Mendicantium, juxta intentio:iem Decreti Sanctissimi D. N. Gregorii XV. Insuper iisdem Patribus facultatem facimus absolvendi in foro interno ab omnibus casibus, Nobis et officio nostro reservatis, secundum privilegia illis a Sede Apostolica ad hoc spccialiter concessa : Parati ad majora charitatis, et benevolentias munia erga dictos PP., quando tempus et occasio sese obtulerint. In cujus rei fidem manum,. et sigillum apposuimus, hac die 25 Julii, 1635.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 6

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Slane, in 1631, a branch of the Capuchin order was brought into this part of County Meath, under the patronage of the Catholic house of Fleming. This happened despite everything stacked against it. The penal laws were in force. Protestant bishops were intolerant. Successive Lord-Deputies issued proclamations ordering the clergy out of the kingdom under the severest penalties. Every agent of the government carried what the source calls ferocious bigotry. Yet the Capuchins came to Slane regardless. Two years later, in 1633, the Capuchins were established in Mullingar. Dr. Dease, the Bishop of Meath, published a complimentary circular on the occasion of their introduction into Drogheda, on the Meath side of the Boyne. That circular, dated the 25th of July 1635, praised the Capuchin friars who had, for several years, been labouring in this kingdom for the conversion of souls. He gave his consent for them to establish a residence and convent, and granted them faculties to absolve in the internal forum from all cases reserved to him, according to the privileges specially granted to them by the Apostolic See. Dr. Dease also had Augustinians, Franciscans, and Dominicans at work. Notwithstanding all the laws and proclamations against the clergy, these orders were present and active in the diocese.

Consecration of Bishop Cruise at Drogheda

Drogheda · town · Louth · 1788

On August 17, 1788, Dr. John Cruise was consecrated Bishop of Ardagh at the convent of the Dominican nuns in Drogheda, performed by Archbishop O'Reilly with several assisting bishops including Dr. Plunket of Meath.

Read the passage

„ 17. The above consecration took place at Drogheda, in the convent of the Dominican nuns, and was performed by the Most Rev. Dr. O'Reilly, the Metropolitan : Dr. Reilly of Clogher and Dr. Plunket of Meath, assistant consecrating bishops, in the presence of Dr. Troy of Dublin, Dr. M'Davitt of Deny, Dr. Coyle of Raphoe, Dr. M'Mullen of Down and Connor, and Dr. Lennan of Dromore.
„ 19. Drogheda ^Eev. Pat. Moore), 8 confirmed. Six schools. — Sermon : On the punishment of hell, to be dreaded by the wicked parents who neglect the Christian education of their children, and by the degenerate Catholics who comply not with Paschal duty.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

On August 17, 1788, Dr. John Cruise was consecrated Bishop of Ardagh in Drogheda, in the convent of the Dominican nuns. Archbishop O'Reilly performed it, with Dr. Reilly of Clogher and Dr. Plunket of Meath as assistant consecrating bishops. Five bishops attended: Dr. Troy of Dublin, Dr. M'Davitt of Derry, Dr. Coyle of Raphoe, Dr. M'Mullen of Down and Connor, and Dr. Lennan of Dromore. Two days later, Rev. Pat. Moore confirmed 8, with 6 schools. The sermon warned of the punishment of hell, "to be dreaded by the wicked parents who neglect the Christian education of their children, and by the degenerate Catholics who comply not with Paschal duty."

Curious old tombstone in Portloman cemetery

Portloman · townland · Westmeath

A curious old tomb-stone in the Portloman cemetery, bearing a carved cross, seems to mark the resting place of some distinguished ecclesiastic and was long sunk in the clay.

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A monastery %nd a nourishing town once stood here, but both have passed away, and not a vestige now remains of either. After the Anglo-Norman invasion, the church of Portloman was given to an English Abbey, and, in 1486, Thomas, Prior of St. Giles, of Little Malvern, in Worcestershire, and his convent, granted this church (inter alia) to St. Mary's Abbey, Dublin. The venerable old church is romantically situated on the brink of the lake, and the scenery around is so enchanting that it cannot fail to interest antiquary or tourist. The dimensions of the church are seventy-seven feet in length by twenty feet four inches. There is a curious old tomb-stone in the cemetery which seems to have marked the resting place of some distinguished ecclesiastic. It has a cross carved on it, and up to a late period, was sunk considerably in the clay. The visitor will take his departure from this old church, cemetery, and scenery with reluctance.
The old chapels of Marlonstown, Kenny, Kilronan, and Hopestown were pulled down. They are now graveyards.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Dalysbridge Named for Priest's Charitable Bridge

Mount Nugent · townland · Cavan

The village of Dalysbridge, later called Mountnugent, was named after Rev. Hugh Daly, a parish priest who built a bridge at his own expense for the local people who were badly off for want of one.

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* This bridge is so called from a Rev. Hugh Daly, who was parish priest here many years ago. He belonged to a family of affluence, and, as the people were badly off for the want of a bridge, he had it constrii'-tcd ;it his own expense. The locality has been, down to a few years ago, railed Dalysbridge, in memory of the priest. I have not been able to find out the precise years of his pastorship, but I have been told he lived before tlio year 1700. It is not improbable that he succeeded Father Dease, and preceded Rev. B. Reilly in 1740. The records either have never existed, or have been long since lost.
DEANERY OF KELLS — KILBRIDE.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 21

Discovery of ecclesiastical coffins at Rathwire church

near Rathwire · town · Westmeath · 1860–1867

Coffins believed to belong to Catholic ecclesiastical dignitaries were discovered a few years before the book's writing when a vault was being sunk in the Protestant church at Rathwire, built on the site of the old Catholic church.

Read the passage

* I have been informed that coffins of some ecclesiastics of the Catholic church were met with three or four years ago, when sinking a v.uilt in the interior of the Protestant church, for the remains of the late Lord Longford. The person having charge of the work woiild not permit the late Pr»ti".tant minister to intert'iTe with the cotlius, though he \\:is anximis to have th'-m i-x iinine.1, as they bore evident marks of belonging to Catholic
dignitaries,

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Enchanting View from Killua Graveyard

Killua · townland · Westmeath

The old church at Killua was dedicated to St. Lucy, with a holy well still bearing her name nearby. The view from the graveyard of the lake, demesne, and Castle of Killua is described as most enchanting, though the church itself has been torn down.

Read the passage

Killua. — The old church was dedicated to St. Lucy, and a holy well still bears her name in the neighbourhood. The view, from the grave-yard, of the lake, demense, and Castle of Killue is most enchanting. The church has been torn down and uprooted. The western wall in imitation of the east end of an ancient Catholic church, is a modern erection, manifestly for the purpose of imparting an appearance of sanctity and antiquity to the scenery. The stones of the churches of Killua and Moyagher have been used in this building.
Clonarney. — The shell of the old church measures fiftyfour feet nine inches by sixteen ; the east, north, and south sides have been torn down ; only the roots remain. A portion of the old belfry stands at the west end. The grey walls of this ancient sanctuary, surrounded by flocks and herds, tell a sad tale of a spoliated church and an exterminated people.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 20

Father Wyer buried at Castletown-Geoghegan

Castletown Geoghegan · population centre · Westmeath · 1809

Rev. John Wyer, pastor of Milltown, died in 1809 and was buried in the churchyard of Castletown-Geoghegan after a career that included absence during an attack on the bishop's house.

Read the passage

The Rev. John Wyer succeeded. He was born in the parish of Rahugh, studied in Spain, was chaplain to some distinguished family there, returned to Ireland, and officiated as curate in the parish of Tubber, under Dr. Geoghegan. On the night of the attack on the bishop's house, Father Wyer was absent visiting his father. He was appointed pastor of Milltown in 1777, died on the 28th or February, 1809, and was buried in the church-yard ot Castletown-Geoghegan.
The Rev. Christopher Banon succeeded. This pastor was born at Rathcaslin, parish of Milltown, of a very respectable family, in August, 1777, abandoned the world, where bright prospects awaited him, and devoted himsell to the ecclesiastical state. After having graduated in Maynooth College, he was ordained in 1804 ; but, previous to his ordination, the following paper, attesting his blameless life, in accordance with the vigilant supervision or Dr. Plunket, was signed by the under-named pastors, and sent to the bishop. It illustrates what caution the heads of the Church exercised in those days, as well as at present, towards the admission of candidates to the priesthood :

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 26

Great snowfall recorded at Rathmolyon, 1766

Rathmolyon · town · Meath · 1766

Father Flinn's registry entry for February 1766 records the greatest snowfall ever known in the country within living memory, reaching upwards of fifteen feet deep in some places.

Read the passage

"The 12th, 13th, and Uth of this Month, the greatest fall of snow ever known in this country in the memory of man, it being in some places upwards of fifteen feet d<
Father Flinn seems to have resigned the care of the parish in September, 1767, and to have retired into the Friary of Donore. He died on the 17th of March, 177-">, in the fifty-fourth year of his age, and was buried with his brethren in the old church of Killyon.-f* The Rev. Patrick Hart, one of the Dominican Fathers of Donore, was appointed successor. He has entered his appointment in the registry thus :

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 25

Loss of diocesan papers preserved via Tullamore priests

Navan · town · Meath

O'Rafferty and McAlroy of Tullamore preserved the bulk of Dr. Plunket's papers, collected from an auction in Navan after Plunket's death, safeguarding invaluable diocesan records while similar records from other Irish sees were lost or destroyed, some used to wrap goods in shops.

Read the passage

To the Very Rev. Messrs. O'Rafferty and McAlroy we are all indebted for the preservation of the great bulk of Dr. Plunket's papers, and without these valuable aids the history of our diocese would now be a melancholy blank — a mere skeleton, without matter or vitality. Dr. O'Rafferty, when curate in Navan, observed the vast rcass of papers and letters which Dr. Plunket had piled on the shelves of his library. Hence, after the departure of that great prelate, he attended the auction of his effects, and, comprehending the loss which the diocese would sustain if these records passed away, collected with pious, praiseworthy care, all he could secure, brought them to Tullamore, and guarded them during life from dispersion arid destruction. Father McAlroy exercised similar vigilance, and, at the direction of Dr. Cantwell, entrusted them in the most friendly manner to the writer of these pages, enjoining at the same time rigorous guardianship over their safety and preservation. Hence the thanks of all who take an interest in the history of our diocese are justly due to the past, and present pastor of Tullamore ; and the author avails himself of this occasion to put on record the many obligations under which they have placed him. When we consider the lamentable fate of other diocesan records, our feelings of gratitude to these two priests will be more inteDigible. Some of the papers of Dr. Troy, Archbishop of Dublin, were found round soft goods emanating from a grocer's shop. The correspondence and papers of Dr. O'Reilly, Archbishop of Armagh, of Dr. Caulfield of Feins, of Dr. Kinsella of Ossory, of Dr. Kelly of Tuam, and almost of every other Irish Prelate since the Reformation, have been lost to posterity for ever. The papers of Dr.
DEANERY OF CLARA — TULLAMORE 553

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 28

As the companion tells it

As the road takes you through Navan, it passes a town where a remarkable rescue of diocesan history once took place. Dr. O'Rafferty, while serving as curate here, noticed vast masses of papers and letters piled on the shelves of Dr. Plunket's library. After Plunket's death, O'Rafferty attended the auction of his effects in this town and, grasping what the diocese would lose if these records slipped away, gathered all he could secure with what the author calls "pious, praiseworthy care." He brought them to Tullamore and guarded them for the rest of his life. Father McAlroy exercised similar vigilance, and at the direction of Dr. Cantwell, entrusted the papers to the author of this history. Without them, he writes, the history of the diocese would be "a mere skeleton, without matter or vitality." The fate of other Irish diocesan records makes that gratitude sharper. Papers of Dr. Troy, Archbishop of Dublin, were found wrapping soft goods from a grocer's shop. The correspondence of Dr. O'Reilly of Armagh, Dr. Caulfield of Ferns, Dr. Kinsella of Ossory, and Dr. Kelly of Tuam, along with nearly every other Irish prelate since the Reformation, has been lost to posterity forever.

Luke Fagan's examination recorded at Mullingar assizes

Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1729

In 1729 the Clerk of the Crown for County Westmeath delivered examinations taken against Luke Fagan, alias Barry, a 'titular Popish bishop', from proceedings held at the assizes in Mullingar.

Read the passage

"24th November, 1729.— William Sheil, D. Clerk of the Crown, County Westmeath, attended the House of Lords' Committee, and delivered at the Bar the several examinations taken against Luke Fagan, alias Barry, a titular Popish b-ishop, and several other Popish jiriests, and the proceedings on the several examinations at the last assizes held for the said county at Mullingar, inasmuch as Sheil did not enter the examinations in the Judge's Book of Bills, and was accordingly attached ; but was discharged next day, on expressing his sorrow, and begging pardon of the House."
It is manifest that Shell's neglect, wilful or otherwise, was highly beneficial to Dr. Fagan.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 10

Oliver Dease elected Vicar-General amid Confederation politics

Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 1646–1649

Oliver Dease, nephew of Dr. Dease, joined the Catholic Confederation and served as Vicar-General of Meath for 37 years. He attended the Synod of Waterford in 1646 and the Synod of Clonmacnoise in 1649, later shifting political allegiance away from the Nuncio.

Read the passage

Father Oliver, of course, joined the Catholic Confederation, assisted at the Synod of Waterford in August, 1646, and signed the condemnation of the peace with Ormond, as Vicar-General of Meath. Subsequently his politieal aspirations became modified, and henceforth he swam with the current of the Palesmen, in their opposition to the Nuncio.* He attended the Synod of Clonmacnoise on the 4th of December, 1649, and signed the decrees as " Procurator to the Bishop of Meath. ' He survived the dissolution of the Confederation, and lived to see the common enemy triumph, as the natural, and not unjust, consequence of discord and selfishness. During the Cromwell ian usurpation we lose sight of the Vicar-General of Meath. and his name next occurs, in 1660, signing the instrument of procuration, by which the recreant friar, Peter Walsh, was de-
* In the Life of Dr. Dxixr, written liy Father Median. and published in Daffy's Hibernian ie« is ;i note on Oliver Pe.tsc : "On

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 7

Priests and Religious Imprisoned in Kilkenny

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1651

Nugent's letter recounts finding Father Fiacre and other priests and religious imprisoned in Kilkenny, sustained only by alms solicited by a lay brother.

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Catholic citizens were expelled from the city. I then went to Kilkenny, where I found our Father Fiacre, and other priests and religious, in prison, for whom our lay-brother, John, provides by soliciting alms. As my assistance was not needed in Kilkenny, where there were several religious and priests, I hastened to the city of Ross, where there was no priest, but where there is an abundant spiritual harvest.
" Having terminated a mission there, I came to Waterford, where the harvest was still more abundant, the city being far more populous, and scourged with the plague. I am here alone for six weeks, attending to the wants of the poor and of the rich, and it is my intention to remain here until the sword or the plague shall terminate my career.

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 7

Rev. Stephen Smith buried beside Dr. Plunket in Navan chapel

Navan · town · Meath · 1832

Father Stephen Smith, Vicar of the Deanery of Duleek, died in 1832 worn down by his duties and was buried, at his own request, alongside Dr. Plunket in the chapel of Navan, with an immense multitude attending.

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studied in the diocesan seminary, entered Maynooth College in 1817, and was ordained in 1820. He officiated, as curate in Castle to wn-Kilpatrick, St. Mary's (Drogheda), and Johnstown, where he was appointed pastor immediately after the death of Father O'Callaghan. Father Smith was held in high esteem by his ecclesiastical superiors, Dr. Plunket and Dr. Logan; and Dr. Cantwell marked his appreciation of his merits by raising him to the rank of Vicar of the Deanery of Duleek. Worn down in the discharge of his sacred duties, he died on the 7th of December, 1832, in the 37th year of his age, and was buried, at his own request, alongside of the venerable Dr. Plunket, in the chapel of Navan. An immense multitude of all classes in society accompanied his remains to their last resting-place, and to this day his name and memory are held in deserved respect and veneration.
The Rev. Michael Reid, present pastor, was born in the union of Castletown-Kilpatrick, studied in Navan and

Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan02cogaiala, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Navan, this town holds the grave of Father Stephen Smith, who was ordained in 1820, served as curate in Castletown-Kilpatrick, St. Mary's in Drogheda, and Johnstown, and was raised to Vicar of the Deanery of Duleek by Dr. Cantwell. Worn down in the discharge of his sacred duties, he died on the 7th of December 1832, in the 37th year of his age, and was buried, at his own request, alongside the venerable Dr. Plunket in the chapel of Navan. An immense multitude of all classes in society accompanied his remains to their last resting-place, and his name and memory are held in deserved respect and veneration.

The Diocese of Meath: Ancient and Modern (vol. 2)

The stories, best first

Durrow: The Vanished Glory of St. Columba's Abbey

Execution of Archbishop Oliver Plunket lamented by Dr. Cusack

Execution of Rev. Mr. O'Reilly by the Puritans

Hidden Mass vault used during persecution

Image of Christ Crucified Destroyed at Ballyboggan Abbey

Kilbeggan disfranchised after the Union

National Synod of Kilkenny establishes Confederate government

Open-air Mass and priest-hunts on Knockbaron hill

Penal-times open-air Mass sites at Parsonstown and Footstown

Rev. Francis Lynagh's retirement to Donore convent

Secret Mass sites at Mullagh, Gortloney and the 'Hollow of the Mass'

St Sinche's Convent and Jenny's Well at Kilshine

The Bishop's Grave at Clonfad

Vanished monastery and town at Portloman

Wayside cross near Foyran attacked by Orangemen during procession

Burial of Bishop Alexander Petit before the high altar, Trim

Carmelite Convent of Moate Turned into a Barrack in 1798

Death and unmarked burial of Dr. Chevers at Donaghpatrick

Dominicans of Drogheda take refuge at Rosnaree

Galway Dominican nuns expelled, cloisters occupied by soldiers

Oliver Dease arrested and dies in exile during 1674 persecution

Open-air Mass during persecution at Killucan

Peter Walsh Born at Moortown, Kildare

Priest arrested in vestments at the Moate of Ballyboy

Spoliated Church and Exterminated People at Clonarney

Statue of the Virgin at Navan Abbey Venerated by Pilgrims

The Chapel Bell Suspended from a Tree on the Moat of Delvin

Buried font tradition at Monkstown church

Curate dies of typhoid fever contracted on duty at Multifarnham

Destruction of old church and tombstones at Moorechurch

Dr. Luke Fagan's secret refuge during Penal Laws

Father Ferrall imprisoned and Dr. Plunket arrested in Dublin

Fortune-Teller Scandal at Galtrim

Franciscans of Multyfarnham Scattered

Galtrim church and its ancient lordship

Grave-yard desecration and cattle at Moorechurch cemetery

Green grave of an unknown priest at Castle-Kieran

Holy well at Foyran nearly destroyed by fire in an ash tree

Kilbeggan Cistercian Abbey completely uprooted

Monument erected to Bishop Dease in Galway

O'Rafferty founds Convent of Mercy and takes part in Repeal agitation at Tullamore

Richard Mageoghegan, Heroic Defender of Dunboy Castle

Rinuccini's ceremonial entry into Limerick

Ruined church of Killegland with thorn and palm tree

State of parish churches in the diocese of Meath, 1576

Tyrrellspass chapel built on site of historic drawbridge

Ballyboggan Abbey reduced to a fragment

Capuchins established at Slane

Consecration of Bishop Cruise at Drogheda

Curious old tombstone in Portloman cemetery

Dalysbridge Named for Priest's Charitable Bridge

Discovery of ecclesiastical coffins at Rathwire church

Enchanting View from Killua Graveyard

Father Wyer buried at Castletown-Geoghegan

Great snowfall recorded at Rathmolyon, 1766

Loss of diocesan papers preserved via Tullamore priests

Luke Fagan's examination recorded at Mullingar assizes

Oliver Dease elected Vicar-General amid Confederation politics

Priests and Religious Imprisoned in Kilkenny

Rev. Stephen Smith buried beside Dr. Plunket in Navan chapel