The Diocese of Meath: Ancient and Modern (vol. 3)

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Earl of Fingall Dies at Turbotstown

   Turbotstown · townland · Westmeath · 1793

   The Earl of Fingall died at Turbotstown at five o'clock in the morning in August 1793. Bishop Plunket subsequently said Mass and sang High Mass at Killeen Castle for the repose of his soul, presiding at the Office attended by twelve priests before the interment.

   Read the passage

   religion, and allegiance, and loyalty. „ This day the Earl of Fingall died at Turbotstown, at five o'clock in the morning.

   ,, 22. Kilcloon (Rev. James Ferrall), 15. — Attachment to religion, and obedience to the laws.

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 47

2. Foundation stone of Kells Catholic chapel laid by Earl Bective

   Kells · town · Meath · 1798

   On Saturday 7 April 1798, the Earl of Bective laid the foundation stone of the new Roman Catholic chapel of Kells before a great crowd of townspeople and neighbouring gentry. He was presented with an ornamented silver trowel by parish priest Rev. Peter O'Reilly, and a brass plate with a commemorative inscription was fixed into the foundation stone.

   Read the passage

   " On Saturday, the 7th instant, about one o'clock in the afternoon, the Right Honourable the Earl Bective, of Bective Castle, laid the foundation-stone of the new chapel of Kells, in the presence of a great concourse of the inhabitants of the town and parish, and of the neighbouring gentry. The Rev. Mr. O'Reilly, parish priest, had the honour of presenting to his Lordship, in the name of the Roman Catholic parishioners, in testimony of their grateful acknowledgment, an elegant silver trowel, ornamented with an inscription recording his Lordship's princely donation of the chapel-ground, munificent contribution towards the construction of the sacred edifice, and the ceremony of the day. A brass plate, with an incription of the same purport, to perpetuate the auspicious event, was fixed in the foun-

   * This letter was published in the papers at the time, and reprinted in small pamphets. I found the above copy amongst Dr. Plunket's papers.

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 41

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Kells in Meath, this is where a new Catholic chapel began on the 7th of April 1798. The Earl of Bective laid the foundation stone before a great crowd of townspeople and neighbouring gentry. The parish priest, Reverend Peter O'Reilly, presented him with an elegant silver trowel in the name of the Catholic parishioners, in testimony of what the inscription called his "princely donation of the chapel-ground" and contribution towards the construction. A brass plate with a commemorative inscription was fixed into the foundation stone to mark the event.

3. Foundation stone of new Kells chapel laid by Earl Bective

   Kells · town · Meath · 1798

   On 7 April 1798, Earl Bective laid the foundation stone of the new chapel of Kells in the presence of a great concourse of inhabitants and gentry. A silver trowel and a brass plate recording the donation and ceremony were presented and affixed.

   Read the passage

   „ 7. Saturday — Earl Bective laid the foundation stone of the new chapel of Kells, in the presence of a great concourse of the inhabitants and neighbouring gentry. A silver trowel, on which his Lordship's donation was inscribed, was presented to his Lordship; and a brass plate recording the donation and the ceremony of the day was affixed to the foundation stone.

   „ 14. This afternoon I left Navan to begin my nineteenth visitation on next day at Kells.

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 51

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Kells, this is where Earl Bective laid the foundation stone of the new chapel on the 7th of April, 1798. A great crowd of inhabitants and neighbouring gentry gathered for the occasion. A silver trowel with his Lordship's donation inscribed on it was presented to him, and a brass plate recording the donation and the ceremony was affixed to the foundation stone.

4. Founding of Cistercian Abbey of Kilbeggan, 'De Flumine Dei'

   Kilbeggan · town · Westmeath · 1200

   About the year 1200 a Cistercian monastery called 'De Flumine Dei' or 'of the River of God' was erected at Kilbeggan by the Dalton family under the patronage of the Blessed Virgin, supplied with monks from Mellifont.

   Read the passage

   About the year 1200 a Cistercian monastery was erected here, called "De Flumine Dei," or " of the River of God," by the Dalton family, under the patronage of the Blessed Virgin, which was supplied with monks from the far-famed abbey of Mellifont.

   In 1213, Melaghlin McCoughlan, Prince of Delvin, died during his pilgrimage to this abbey. — War. MSS.

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 111

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Kilbeggan, this is where the Dalton family founded a Cistercian monastery about the year 1200. It was called De Flumine Dei, of the River of God, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin and staffed by monks from Mellifont. In 1213 Melaghlin McCoughlan, Prince of Delvin, died while on pilgrimage to this abbey.

5. Killare monastery founded by St Aidus

   Killare · parish · Westmeath · 550–588

   A monastery was erected at Killare, two miles west of the Hill of Usney, by St Aidus or Aedeus about the middle of the sixth century. He was later consecrated bishop and fixed his see at Killare, which he had already founded.

   Read the passage

   Killare, or Gill- Air, is situated about two miles west of the Hill of Usney. A monastery was erected here by St. Aidus* or Aedeus (i.e. Hugh) about the middle of the sixth century. This eminent saint was born about the "year 510, in the territory of Cinel-Fiachrach ,-f- his father's name was Brec, descended from Niall of the Nine Hostages, Monarch of Ireland, and his mother was from the present county of Tipperaiy. St. Aid was reared with his mother's friends, and, on the death of his father, returned to Meath,

   * Col pan's Life, at 28th of February ; Lanigan, vol. ii., p. 187-1f>8. &c. In OVlery's 7mA Colff^darlas festival is marked thus : " Aedh Mac Brie, Bishop of Killare, in Meath, and of Sliahh Li;ig, in Tir-Bogliaine, iu Kinel-Connell." O'Donovan tells us that, the inins of St. Aed's chapel are still to be seen on the mountain of Slieveleague, in the barony of Banagh, *nd countv of Donegal (vol. i., p. 21'i).

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 110

6. Luke Netterville founds Dominican monastery at Drogheda

   Drogheda · town · Louth · 1220–1227

   Luke Netterville, son of Sir Luke Netterville of Dowth, became Archbishop of Armagh in 1220 and founded a Dominican monastery at Drogheda. He died in 1227 and was buried in the Abbey of Mellifont.

   Read the passage

   Luke Netterville, son of Sir Luke Netterville of Dowth, County Meath, became Archbishop of Armagh in 1220, having been consecrated by Stephen Langton, Archbishop of Canterbury. He founded a Monastery for Dominicans at Drogheda, died on the 17th of April, 1227, and was buried in the Abbey of Mellifont. — ArchdalTs Peerage, vol. iv., p. 203.

   540 BISHOPS FROM THE DIOCESE OF MEATH.

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 95

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up is Drogheda. Luke Netterville, son of Sir Luke Netterville of Dowth, became Archbishop of Armagh in 1220, consecrated by Stephen Langton, Archbishop of Canterbury. He founded a Dominican monastery here, died on the 17th of April 1227, and was buried in the Abbey of Mellifont.

7. Magh-Constantine and the foreign-settled town of Cell-Belaigh

   Rahin · townland · Kildare

   Constantine had a large tract of land near Rahin cleared, called Magh-Constantine after him, belonging to the Abbey of Rahin. A town and church called Cell-Belaigh stood in this plain, attracting so many foreigners that seven streets were said to be exclusively inhabited by them.

   Read the passage

   Rumann Mac Colmain,* who is described by Irish writers as the Virgil of Ireland, and whose death is entered in the annals of Tighernach at the year 747, it appears that this Constantine had got a large tract of land near Rahin cleared, which was called after him Magh-Constantine, or Constantine 's plain, and which in consequence belonged to the Abbey of Rahin. There was a town and church in this plain called " Cell-Belaigh," which Rumann, the poet, endowed with a third of his wealth, and such was the influx of foreigners to it, attracted probably by the fame of the monastery, that seven streets are said to have been exclusively inhabited by them.

   From this period until the middle of the eighth century we discover no notices of Rahin in our records. Early in the eighth century the church and monastery seem to have been rebuilt by St. Fidhairle Ua Suanaigh, who became the patron saint of Rahin, and whose festival is marked in our martyrologies at the 1st of October. -f The Four Masters have the following notices of this abbey : —

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 117

8. Open-air Mass and plea for a chapel at Kildalkey

   Kildalkey · town · Meath · 1702

   In 1702, Rev. William Geoghegan, pastor of Kildalkey, wrote to Mrs. Nangle of Kill stating that Mass had been celebrated in the open air due to lack of a chapel, and asked for help to erect a small chapel. This reflects the penal-era hardships faced by Catholic clergy and congregations.

   Read the passage

   1702, May 1st. Letter from Rev. William Geoghegan, pastor of Kildalkey, to Mrs. Nangle of Kill, whose Chaplain he had been, stating that Mass had been celebrated in the open air, and asking for help, to erect a little chapel.

   1703. Letter from Dr. Michael Plunket, P.P. and V.G., Ratoath, to Lord Trimlestown.

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 140

9. Owen O'Coffey Treacherously Slain at Ballinlig

   Ballinlig · townland · Westmeath · 1556

   In 1556 the Four Masters recorded that Owen, son of William O'Coffey, the most learned poet in Ireland, was treacherously slain at night at Ballinlig in Moyvoughly, near Moate, Westmeath.

   Read the passage

   1556. The Four Masters note at this year that " Owen, son of William O'Coffey, the most learned in Ireland in poetry, was treacherously slain at night at Ballinlig, in Moyvoughly " (three miles from the town of Moate, in dounty Westmeath). He composed a poem in Irish of 156 verses in praise of James, Earl of Desmond, and

   640 THE WRITERS AND POETS OF MEATH.

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 125

10. Provincial bishops' meeting resumes at Drogheda after rebellion interruption

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1802

    A provincial meeting of the bishops of the Province of Armagh was held at Drogheda over two days, the first such gathering since 1797, the year before the 1798 rebellion interrupted the practice. Bishops from across the province attended to agree uniform Lenten observance and discuss cases of conscience.

    Read the passage

    „ 25 and 26. On these two days the provincial meeting of the bishops of the Province of Armagh, interrupted since the year 1797, the year before the rebellion, was held at Drogheda. It was composed of Drs. O'Reilly, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of all Ireland, Plunket of Meath, Dillon of Kilmore, Murphy of Clogher, M'Mullen of Down and Connor, O'Donnell of Derry, O'Dwyer of Dromore, and M'Laughiin of Raphoe. Uniformity in the observance of Lent was agreed upon ; various cases of conscience discussed ; letters answered.

    „ 29. Duleek (Rev. John Kearney), 58.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 56

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, this is where the bishops of the Province of Armagh met on the 25th and 26th of 1802, their first provincial gathering since 1797. The rebellion of 1798 had interrupted the practice. Dr. O'Reilly, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of all Ireland, was joined by Plunket of Meath, Dillon of Kilmore, Murphy of Clogher, M'Mullen of Down and Connor, O'Donnell of Derry, O'Dwyer of Dromore, and M'Laughlin of Raphoe. They agreed uniform Lenten observance, discussed cases of conscience, and answered letters.

11. Rioting at Patrons Leading to Murder in Moynalty

    Moynalty · townland · Meath · 1805

    During the 1805 visitation to Moynalty, the bishop condemned rioting at patrons (patron saint festivals) which was noted to have been followed by murder, as well as rioting at funerals followed by acts of violence.

    Read the passage

    July 22. Moynalty (Rev. Peter M'Mahon), 79. — Paschal duty ; rioting at patrons, followed by murder ; rioting at funerals, followed by acts of violence.

    „ 23. I dined at Mullagh, in the County Cavan, at the house of Rev. Felix M'Cabe, with the Right Rev. Dr. Dillon, of Kilmore.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 58

12. Slaying of Contan O'Molloy, Prior of Durrow

    Durrow · parish · Offaly · 1553

    In 1553 Contan O'Molloy, son of Charles and famous throughout the region of Clonlune, Dellna and Cloncolman, was slain on the vigil of St. Matthew, according to the Kilcormick missal entries.

    Read the passage

    " 1553. Contan O'Molloy, son of Charles, Prior of Dura (Durrow ?) was slain on the vigil of St. Mathew (September 20th). A man famous and generous through the region of Clonlune, throughout Dellna and Cloncolman ; on whose soul may the Lord have mercy. Amen.

    " 1567. Died Arthur O'Molloy, chief of his tribe.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 116

13. Suspected Interception of Correspondence by the Navan Postmaster

    Navan · town · Meath · 1785

    Dr. Plunket suspected that Thomas Shore, the postmaster and parish clerk of Navan, was reading and remarking upon his private correspondence with the Archbishop of Cashel due to anti-Catholic prejudice. Plunket noted Shore's hostility stemmed partly from being forbidden to use Catholic curates to collect church dues on his behalf.

    Read the passage

    " My projects of interview with his Grace of Cashel have been of late unfortunate for the most part. In consequence of the notice he gave me, by one of his clergy in town, that he was not to go to Dublin, I gave up all thoughts of travelling until the visitation, and put myself into a situation in which it would be exceeedingly inconvenient for me to leave home at present. My own saddle horse, who was too mettlesome, and threw me once, but without hurting me, I sold last Saturday ; nor have I got a beast on which I would choose to ride to town. "Were even this inconveniency surmounted, I could not go to the capital sooner than next Monday, in which case I should return early on Wednesday, the eve of our patron day, a degree of expedition unsuitable to fasting days, and scarcely consistent with a satisfactory enjoyment of his Grace's company. Another singular kind of obstacle presents itself to my mind, which I must not conceal from the doctor. I have it from a person of veracity, that the postmaster of this town was heard to express surprise at the frequency of my correspondence with Dr. Butler, especially of late, and to make remarks on it. Do not these remarks and that surprise afford some grounds of suspicion that our letters have been read in the office of Navan 1 The subject matter of these letters were the propriety, the necessity, the motives of an address from the Roman Catholics of Ireland to both houses of Parliament. The doctor communicated to me his resolution of going to Dublin to forward that business, and pressed me to meet him. In all this there is nothing that could not bear the light. Yet, less than all this, if people were ill-disposed, might be fastened upon by malevolence. My staying quietly where I am would disappoint, perhaps, the waspish intentions of the individual who took umbrage at the inoffensive intercourse subsisting between two loyal subjects. Thomas

    THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. PLUNKET. 109

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 28

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Navan, in Meath. In 1785, this town was at the centre of a small but revealing suspicion. Dr. Plunket, a Catholic clergyman, had been writing letters to Dr. Butler, the Archbishop of Cashel, about the propriety and necessity of an address from the Roman Catholics of Ireland to both houses of Parliament. He heard from a person of veracity that the postmaster of this town had been heard to express surprise at the frequency of that correspondence, especially of late, and to make remarks on it. Plunket took those remarks as grounds for suspicion that his letters had been read in the Navan post office. The postmaster was Thomas Shore, who also served as parish clerk. His hostility toward Plunket stemmed partly from anti-Catholic prejudice, and partly from having been forbidden to use Catholic curates to collect church dues on his behalf. Plunket himself saw nothing in the letters that could not bear the light. They concerned an address to Parliament, and the doctor had communicated his resolution of going to Dublin to forward that business and pressed Plunket to meet him. Yet Plunket reasoned that less than all this, if people were ill-disposed, might be fastened upon by malevolence. He described the postmaster as an individual who took umbrage at the inoffensive intercourse subsisting between two loyal subjects, and spoke of disappointing what he called the waspish intentions of that person. Staying quietly where he was, Plunket felt, would serve that purpose better than travelling to the capital and giving further cause for remark.

14. Dall M'Cuairt, Blind Bard of Slane

    Slane · townland · Meath

    James M'Cuairt, known as Dall M'Cuairt, was born in Louth but spent most of his life in Slane, County Meath, composing many Irish-language songs and poems recited by the peasantry before the famine years scattered the people.

    Read the passage

    James M'Cuairt, or Courtney, familiarly known as Dall M'Cuairt, was born in the County Louth, but spent the greater part of his life in Slane, County Meath. He composed innumerable songs a,nd poems in the Irish language, which were possessed of much poetic merit, and which used to be sung and recited by the peasantry, before the dread famine years uprooted and scattered the people.

    * The author, in compiling this list, quite forgot that the celebrated Oliver Goldsmith was born at Auburn, parish of Kilkenny-West, County Westiiicath. He is so well known that a biography is unnecessary.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here in Slane lived James M'Cuairt, familiarly known as Dall M'Cuairt. He was born in County Louth but spent the greater part of his life here. He composed innumerable songs and poems in Irish, which were sung and recited by the peasantry, before the dread famine years uprooted and scattered the people.

15. Defenderism Depredations Blamed on Ignorance at Navan

    Navan · town · Meath · 1796

    During his visitation at Navan, Bishop Plunket recommended the sodality of the Christian Doctrine as a remedy for the ignorance of the common people, linking their degeneracy to recent Defenderism-related depredations in the area.

    Read the passage

    „ „ Navan (Patrick Joseph Plunket, Bishop and P.P.), (58 confirmed. — The sodality of the Christian doctrine recommended as a remedy for the ignorance of the common people, and their degeneracy, causes which had contributed to the late depredations of Defenderism.

    „ 4. Kilberry (Rev. Christopher Linnon, O.M.) 21. — Sodality of the Christian Doctrine recommended on the same grounds.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 49

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan, this is where Bishop Plunket came in 1796. He confirmed 58 people and blamed the recent depredations of Defenderism on the ignorance of the common people. His remedy was the sodality of the Christian Doctrine, meant to cure what he saw as their degeneracy.

16. Excommunication of rioters who disturbed the peace of Navan

    Navan · town · Meath · 1780

    In 1780, Dr. Plunket fulminated excommunication against rioters who had disturbed the peace of the town of Navan, an episode reflecting civil unrest and ecclesiastical response to disorder in the town.

    Read the passage

    1780, April 2nd. Excommunication fulminated by Dr. Plunket against some rioters who had disturbed the peace of the town of Navan.

    1780, May 20th. Reply of the Sacred Congregation regarding the question of mixed marriages.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 140

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan, back in 1780 this town saw enough disorder that Dr. Plunket fulminated excommunication against rioters who had disturbed its peace. The Church's answer to civil unrest was sharp and public, aimed at restoring order.

17. Munstermen plunder Lough Ree churches, 1089

    near Lough Ree · lake or lakes · Westmeath · 1089

    In 1089 the monasteries and churches of Lough Ree, including Inishcloghran, Inishbofin, Hare Island, and Cloonown, were plundered by the Munstermen under Murtogh O'Brian.

    Read the passage

    In 920, the Danes of Limerick plundered Clonmacnoise, ;and also the churches and religious houses of Lough-Ree. In 922, 927, and 929, the Danes again invaded Lough- Ree, and spread death and destruction around them. In 937, the Danes entered Lough-Ree, on Christmas night, and remained there seven months, plundering and burning the neighbouring churches and territories. In 1089, the monasteries and churches of Lough-Ree, viz : — Iiiiscloghran, Inishbofin, Hare Island, and Cloonown, were plundered by the Munstermen, under Murtogb O'Brian. After the English invasion an abbey was erected here, and endowed by the noble house of Dillon, which seems to have continued up to the Reformation. The old church of Hare Island, which was dedicated to St. Ciaran, measures 49 feet 8 inches by 15 feet 4 inches. There is a tomb here, with an Irish inscription, asking a prayer for Tuathal Hua Hurain, a celebrity now unknown.

    Inisvachtuir.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 109

18. Burial of Archdeacon O'Reilly at Kells Honoured by Both Faiths

    Kells · town · Meath · 1820

    Rev. Peter O'Reilly was interred at Kells with great honour, attended by both Catholics and Protestants, all of whom wore mourning scarfs at their own expense.

    Read the passage

    July 18. Duleek (Rev. Mr. Logan), 133. „ 19. My dear Mr. O'Reilly was interred at Kells with great honour by Catholics and Protestants. All wore scarfs, at their own expense.

    „ 20. Ardcath (Rev. Mr. Leonard), 104.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 75

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kells, there is a story from 1820. Rev. Peter O'Reilly, the Archdeacon, was buried here on July 19, with great honour. Catholics and Protestants alike attended, all wearing mourning scarfs at their own expense, in a gesture of shared respect across both faiths.

19. Burial of St. Carthage at Lismore

    Lismore · townland · Waterford · 637

    After his death, St. Carthage's body was interred with great honour and veneration in the church of Lismore, following the usual sacraments and religious solemnities.

    Read the passage

    called, in consequence, " crux migrationis, — the cross of the departure " — fortified- by all the sacraments and aids of religion, the great St. Carthage Mochuda, first bishop of Lismore, was liberated from his earthly sufferings, and, after the usual sacrifices, solemnities, and suffrages of religion, his body was interred with great honour and veneration in the church of Lismore. The Four Masters enter his death thus : —

    "AJX 636. SI. Mochuda, Bishop of Lismore, and Abbot of Eahin, died on the 14th of May."

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 116

20. Burning and plundering of Lynally by Sir Henry Sidney

    Lynally · parish · Offaly · 1557

    In 1557 the houses and churches of Lynally were plundered and burned by Sir Henry Sidney, Lord Treasurer of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    "1557. The houses and churches of Lynally were plundered and burned by Sir Henry Sidney, Lord Treasurer of Ireland."

    Rathlibhthen.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 116

21. Lawless Outrages and Property Plundered at Kilmessan

    Kilmessan · town · Meath · 1784

    Dr. Plunket wrote to the parish priest of Kilmessan concerning 'barbarous outrages' committed by parishioners, including the violent plundering of a respectable gentleman's property. He urged the pastor to publicly condemn the disorder and enforce respect for the law.

    Read the passage

    " By seriously perusing the enclosed you may judge what opinion is entertained of a considerable portion of your flock, not only by Dr. Cleghorn, but also by Dr. Carpenter. The former, in his narrative of the lawless proceedings he complains of, imputes them in great part t j the ignorance of the lower class of Roman Catholics, and thereby plainly enough insinuates, although he does not expressly say it, that the people of Kilmessan are not sufficiently instructed by their pastor. Indeed, experience proves that even assiduous instruction is not always a fence against the greatest abuses. But it would be a deplorable misfortune if a clergyman, charged with the care of souls, whose principal and indispensable duty it is every Sunday and great festival to announce the truths of eternal salvation, did by the neglect of this awful obligation expose himself to be suspected of conniving at barbarous outrages and the violation of law. To vindicate your own character and the honour of our holy religion, you will embrace the earliest opportunity of animadverting with proper severity on the late enormities committed in your neighbourhood, and of enforcing with all the authority your station gives you the respect which Roman Catholics owe to the laws of the land. Read to the congregation the complaint sent to their bishop against them ; and by the most animated exertions of zeal convince the public that you were not unconcerned, when order was subverted, when decency was trampled upon, and when the property of a respectable gentleman of the parish was violently plundered by men who compose a part of your flock.

    " I am, with sincere regard, Rev. dear Sir,

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 28

22. Lord Ludlow Grants Perpetuity of Navan Chapel Lease

    Navan · town · Meath · 1805

    In 1805, Dr. Plunket wrote to Lord Ludlow thanking him for converting the determinate lease of the Catholic chapel at Navan, and its grounds and the bishop's adjoining dwelling, into a perpetuity. The gift was received with enthusiasm by the local Catholic community.

    Read the passage

    " On my return to Navan this week from an excursion of two months through the diocese of Meath, I had the heartfelt satisfaction of receiving from Mr. M'Guire authentic information of your Lordship's gracious assent to the prayer of the memorial and letter I did myself the honour to address to your Lordship. Accept, my Lord, the grateful thanks of the R. Catholics of this town and neighbourhood ; accept the homage of my warmest acknowledgment for the benevolence and liberality with which your Lordship has condescended to change into a perpetuity the determinate lease, by which we held our chapel, and the ground about it, with my humble contiguous dwelling. Our obligations to your noble predecessors were great indeed ; greater still are those we owe to your Lordship. The accommodation we derived under the auspices and good will of the late noble Earl, altho' to us important in a high degree, was limited and temporary. This your Lordship has stamped with inestimable value by the munificent act which secures the enjoyment of it, and encourages us to improve its advantages by rendering it more and more worthy of its sacred destination. The account of this recent instance of the philanthropy of the illustrious house of Ludlow was received here with enthusiasm, and will be followed by unceasing fervent wishes for the prosperity of every member of which it is composed.

    " You have raised in the midst of us, my Lord, a monument, in which your name will live until time shall be no more, embalmed in the love and grateful remembrance of thousands yet unborn.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 59

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan in Meath, this is a town with a quiet chapter from 1805. That year, Dr. Plunket wrote to Lord Ludlow thanking him for converting the determinate lease of the Catholic chapel, its grounds, and the bishop's adjoining dwelling into a perpetuity. The change meant the local Catholic community could hold the chapel and its land permanently, where before the arrangement had been limited and temporary under the late noble Earl. Plunket told Lord Ludlow that the news was received here with enthusiasm, and that he had "raised in the midst of us a monument" in which his name would live in grateful remembrance. The local Catholics sent their thanks for what Plunket called the benevolence and liberality of the act.

23. Meeting with Lord Fingall at Maynooth College over disturbances

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1809

    On 6 November 1809 Bishop Plunket went with Lord Fingall to the College of Maynooth, where they met with other bishops to investigate the causes of disturbances at the college.

    Read the passage

    Nov. 6. I went this day with Lord Fingall to the College of Maynooth, where we met Drs. O'Reilly and Troy, and inquired into the causes of the disturbances prevailing in the college.

    „ 13. Rev. Edward Meighan, curate of Ardmulchan, was sent to Drogheda, in room of Rev. James Rickard, sent to Ardmulchan.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 64

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Maynooth, this is where Bishop Plunket came with Lord Fingall on 6 November 1809. They met Drs. O'Reilly and Troy at the college here, and inquired into the causes of disturbances prevailing in the college.

24. Monster meeting at Longford

    Longford · town · Longford · 1843

    Dr. Cantwell, together with Dr. O'Higgins, Bishop of Ardagh, attended the Repeal monster meeting held in Longford on 25 May 1843, estimated to have drawn 270,000 attendees.

    Read the passage

    Dr. Cantwell, in company with Dr. O'Higgins, the patriotic bishop of Ardagh, attended the monster meeting

    THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. CANTWELL. 507

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 90

    As the companion tells it

    Longford town is ahead. On the 25th of May 1843 a Repeal monster meeting drew an estimated 270,000 people here. Dr. Cantwell came, along with Dr. O'Higgins, Bishop of Ardagh.

25. Month's Memory Service for Dr. Cantwell

    Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1867

    A month's memory Mass for Dr. Cantwell was held at the Cathedral in Mullingar on 16 January 1867, attended by about 250 priests and 10 bishops despite inclement weather. Archbishop MacHale of Tuam delivered the funeral oration.

    Read the passage

    The month's memory for Dr. Cantwell was held in the Cathedral, Mullingar, on Wednesday, the 16th of January, 1867. The day was very inclement; nevertheless, the church was " crowded with a vast congregation. There were about 250 priests present on the occasion, and 10 bishops. It is unnecessary to describe the grandeur and solemnity of the ceremonies. We shall confine ourselves to the funeral oration, delivered by John, Archbishop of Tuam. Under the circumstances, as he had been, through life, the bosom friend of the deceased, and a patriot of the same stamp, no one could have been more appropriately selected to do justice to the memory of Dr. Cantwell. The author feels truly grateful for the honour conferred upon him, on so solemn and august an occasion, and under such peculiar circumstances, by his Grace the illustrious Archbishop of Tuam. We shall quote now the panegyric, as published in the Freeman's Journal, January 18, 1867 : —

    " The Most Rev. the Lord Archbishop of Tuam then ascended the altar, and delivered the following sermon, taking for his text —

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 93

26. Murder of Anthony O'Reilly Recalled at Castlepollard

    Castlepollard · town · Westmeath · 1803

    During the 1803 visitation, the murder of Anthony O'Reilly, Esq., was mentioned with abhorrence at Castlepollard parish.

    Read the passage

    „ 9. Castlepollard (Rev. John Murray), 51. — The murder of Anthony O'Reilly, Esq., mentioned with abhorrence. * „ 10. I passed this day with Mr. Joseph Taylor, at Nonsuch.

    „ 11. Turbetstown (Rev. James Murray), 55. — Compliments on the generous contribution of the parish to the School of St. Finian, at Navan.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 57

27. New chapel at Ardbraccan built with Protestant and Catholic subscriptions

    Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1800

    At Ardbraccan (Cortown), the bishop complimented the flock on their handsome new chapel and expressed gratitude to Protestant gentlemen who subscribed to the work, especially a Catholic named Mr. Halpin who donated land and money.

    Read the passage

    „ 11. Ardbraccan, at Cortown (Rev. Michael Branagan), 44. — Neglect of the annual confession and Paschal Communion on the part of a few; the flock complimented on their handsome new chapel ; gratitude expressed to the Protestant gentlemen who subscribed to the work, and particularly to Mr. Halpin, a Catholic, who gave an acre of ground rent free, and £10.

    „ 12. Trim (Rev. John Clarke, P.P. and Vic.-For.), 27.-— On the mystery of the day (Corpus Christi), the doctrine and practice ; the gracious design and purpose of Jesus Christ, in the institution of the Sacrament, frustrated by the degenerate and undutiful Catholics who do not comply with the Paschal Communion. I sent Rev. John Ferrall to Mullingar.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here in Ardbraccan, a new chapel went up around 1800, and the bishop praised the flock for building so handsome a place of worship. He made a point of thanking the Protestant gentlemen who subscribed to the work. A Catholic named Mr. Halpin gave particular help, donating an acre of ground rent free and £10 toward the building.

28. Peasant tradition of the bishop's grave cross at Clonfad

    Clonfad · townland · Westmeath · 1863

    When the author visited the churchyard of Clonfad in August 1863, a peasant pointed to the fragment of an ancient stone cross and said tradition held from his childhood that it marked the resting place of the bishop who founded the monastery.

    Read the passage

    St. Etchen was buried in the cemetery or church of Clonfad, and tradition still preserves the fact of a bishop (name now unknown) having been interred here. When I visited the churchyard in August, 1863, a very intelligent peasant pointed to the fragment of an ancient stone cross, and said that he had heard from his childhood that this cross marked the resting place of the bishop who had founded the monastery of Clonfad. Another grave of a bishop is pointed out, on the roadside near the churchyard. The country round about is now deserted ; the people are gone, whether willingly or unwillingly ; cattle abound ; silence and desolation reign around. God help poor Ireland.

    " 741. Aenghus Mac Tibraide, abbot of Clonfad, died. " 790. Quaire Mac Tibraide, abbot of Clonfad, died."

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 104

29. Petition of Ardbraccan parishioners against Mr. Smyth

    Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1791

    A petition and signatures were gathered from the parishioners of Ardbraccan against the clergyman Smyth, an action which Bodkin warns contributed to escalating scandal and worked against Bishop Plunket's case in Rome.

    Read the passage

    possess all the cardinals against you, and make them look on you with eyes of indignation. So jealous is Rome of this right, that in no instance will she allow an inferior to reject or judge of the validity or non-validity of an appeal to her. Neither will the opinion and advice of your vicars and the other clergy be sufficient to screen you. Again, your having so publicly even denounced him from all the altars of your diocese will contribute to make the cardinals look on you as an impetuous, imprudent prelate. The affair of Ardbraccan, I am very sorry it has ever happened ; for it has contributed much to the late unnatural scandals and proceedings of Mr. Smyth. Whoever had a hand in procuring that petition and signatures of the parishioners against the unhappy Smyth was not aware of the consequences, and not possessed of the deepest penetration. The most powerful interest is set on foot against you, and an able lawyer and canonist employed to defend the cause and support Smyth's pretensions. To be candid with your Lordship, I am full of apprehensions that the cause will not be favourable to you. The merits of it turn chiefly upon those three things, viz. , on the validity of Duffy's and Dempsey's testimonies on account of all the circumstances ; on the modus of granting parishes viva voce ; and, thirdly, on Smyth's merits or demerits. He has sent, no doubt, not only numerous documents, but a few good ones also, which will plead well for him, although his writings savour so much of modern revolutionary principles, and of the spirit of the provincial letters of the head Jansenists. Lord Bective interferes not in the matter at all, although he is not pleased with you. I shall write to you as soon as I have read the lawyer's writing. Let me hear from you if your Lordship thinks me worthy of your confidence, and if you think I can anyway put in a plea in your behalf, in order to guard against an entire decision against you. As to your having suspended him and having denounced him, by all I can see and learn, all your proceedings and acts on the occasion were invalid ; and, therefore, your best or only plea is that you looked on his appeal as withdrawn the moment he entered into a treaty of compromise or reference with you, by retiring to Dublin, and accepting of Ardbraccan. Here please to observe a contradiction of a very strong nature in yourself. You assert him unworthy or unfit ; you suppose him irregular, and you offer, nay confer on him, a parish. What a handle will not adversaries make of this ] I could wish, with all my heart, this affair never came to the point it has, for, at

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 34

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here in Ardbraccan, in 1791, parishioners signed a petition against the clergyman Smyth. A man called Bodkin later wrote that he wished the affair had never happened, because it contributed much to what he called unnatural scandals and proceedings, and it worked against Bishop Plunket's case in Rome. Plunket had publicly denounced Smyth from the altars of the diocese and suspended him, but Bodkin warned that these acts were likely invalid. The merits of the case turned on three things: the testimony of Duffy and Dempsey, the manner of granting parishes by word of mouth, and Smyth's own merits or demerits. Smyth had sent numerous documents to Rome, some of them good ones, though Bodkin noted his writings savoured of modern revolutionary principles and the spirit of the Jansenist provincial letters. An able lawyer and canonist was employed to defend his cause. Bodkin pointed out a contradiction in Plunket: he declared Smyth unworthy and unfit, yet had offered and conferred on him a parish, when Smyth retired to Dublin and accepted Ardbraccan as a compromise. Bodkin feared adversaries would make great use of this.

30. Plague death of Friar Nicholas O'Brachan, Prior of Kilcormick

    Kilcormick · townland · Wexford · 1536

    According to the monastery's Missal record, Friar Nicholas O'Brachan, Prior of Kilcormick, died of the plague on 8 September 1536.

    Read the passage

    " 1536, September 8th. Died of the plague, Friar Nicholas O'Brachan, Prior of Kilcormick.

    " 1541, May 14th. Died Master Roger Doduygem, a venerable and discreet man, of lofty genius, of marvellous discretion, and of great liberality, full of grace and truth before God and all saints ; on whose soul may the Lord have mercy. Amen.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 116

31. Rev. Paul O'Brien Buried at Maynooth College Cemetery

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1820

    Rev. Paul O'Brien, Professor of Irish at Maynooth and great-grandnephew to Carolan, died on 13 April 1820 and was buried in the cemetery of Maynooth College, where a monument with a Latin epitaph was erected over his remains.

    Read the passage

    The Rev. Paul O'Brien was born in the lower part of Heath in the year 1763, and was appointed Professor of the Irish Language, in the College of Maynooth, on the 30th of July, 1802. He was great-grandnephew to Carolan, the poet and musician, and inherited a considerable share of his Irish lore. A few years after his appointment he published an Irish grammar, and continued a professor of the vernacular to the time of his death. O'Reilly, author of the " Descriptive Catalogue," who knew him well, calls him " a living magazine of the poetry and language of his country." He died on the 13th of April, 1820, and was buried in the cemetery of the College of Maynooth. Over his remains a monument has been erected by the late Dr. O'Renahan, president, of the College ; and one of the last acts of that venerable and learned ecclesiastic was to compose the following epitaph : —

    " Hie in spe dormit Donee absorpta ost mors, in victoria

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 132

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Maynooth, where the Reverend Paul O'Brien lies buried in the college cemetery. He was born in the lower part of Heath in 1763 and became Professor of the Irish Language at Maynooth on the 30th of July, 1802. He was a great-grandnephew to Carolan, the poet and musician, and inherited a considerable share of his Irish lore. A few years after his appointment he published an Irish grammar. O'Reilly, who knew him well, called him, in words from the source, "a living magazine of the poetry and language of his country." He died on the 13th of April, 1820. Over his remains a monument was erected by Dr. O'Renahan, president of the College, who composed the Latin epitaph as one of his last acts.

32. Riot at the Five-Mile House, Kilkenny West

    Kilkenny West · townland · Westmeath · 1795

    During the 1795 visitation, Bishop Plunket reprobated a riot and resistance to lawful authority that occurred at the five-mile house in the parish of Kilkenny West. This reflects the unrest of the Defenderism movement affecting rural Meath and Westmeath parishes.

    Read the passage

    „ 29. Kilkenny West (Rev. M. McCormack), 25. — The riot and resistance to lawful authority at the five-mile house reprobated.

    „ 30. Ballimore (Rev. Daniel Mulledy, Vic.-Gen.), 136. — Neglect of the Sacraments, and cautions against the disturbances prevailing in some parts of the country.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 48

33. Unmarked graves of bishops at Multyfarnham

    Fearbranagh or Multyfarnham · townland · Westmeath

    There is neither tombstone nor headstone marking the resting places of Dr. Brady of Kilmore or Dr. Roch M'Geoghegan of Kildare, though countless Franciscan Fathers are buried at Multifarnam without any memorial slab.

    Read the passage

    There is neither tombstone or headstone to mark the resting-place, of Dr. Brady of Kilmore, or Dr. Roch M'Geoghegan of Kildare. Countless numbers of Franciscan Fathers sleep here likewise, but there is not even a slab to recall their memories or perpetuate their names. A stone on a wall of the old church has the following inscription : —

    * Since the text was written, Father Daniel Molloy, who had been endeared to all, clergy and laity, departed this life on the 7th of June, 1869, and was buried with his brethren, in the cemetery of Multifarnam. His successor is the Very Rev. Mr. Murphy.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 114

34. Abbey of Forgney founded by St Munis, nephew of St Patrick

    Forgney · townland · Longford · 486

    An abbey was founded at Forgney, alias Cloncall, about the year 486 by St Munis, a bishop said to be nephew to St Patrick and brother of St Mel, first bishop of Ardagh. The old church, long since in ruin, stands in the barony of Abbeyshrule.

    Read the passage

    An abbey was founded here, in the County Longford and diocese of Heath, about the year 486, by St. Munis, a bishop. He is said to have been nephew to St. Patrick, by his sister Darerca, and brother of St. Mel, or Melus, first bishop of Ardagh. The festival of St. Munis, Bishop and Abbot of Forguey, was celebrated here on the 18th of December. The old church of Forgney, long since in ruin, is situated in the barony of Abbey-Shruel, County of Longford, but included in the present diocese of Meath. — See Acta S;t,n-ct, pp. 207, 362 ; Lanigan, vol. i., p. 419 ; Martyrology of Tallayht ; Martyrology of Donegal.

    Fogldy, or Faghly.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 108

35. Bishop Plunket declines to attend Kells ceremony citing past dispute

    Kells · town · Meath · 1798

    In a letter to Lord Bective, Bishop Plunket explained he would not attend the Kells chapel foundation ceremony despite wishing to, due to a past dispute over a parish vacancy in which he had been involved and did not want to revive old grievances among the congregation.

    Read the passage

    " When one of the first noblemen in the kingdom has the goodness to perform the ceremony of laying the foundationstone of a R. Catholic chapel, it seems to be the duty of the R. Catholic superior of the diocese to attend on the occasion. Respect, decorum, andagrateful senseof the honour conferred bysuch condescension, appear to demand his attendance. Actuated by these motives, my Lord; I should not think myself free to be absent from Kells to-morrow, when the parish priest will have the honour of receiving your Lordship on the chapel ground, did not a certain kind of delicacy (whether well or ill founded I shall not determine) induce me to believe that my presence might not be agreeable. In the dispute to which a late vacancy of the parish gave rise, I had the misfortune to have been a party. Necessity made me so, not inclination. Never have I regretted anything with deeper concern than the consequences of that dispute. From the principles which then guided my conduct I could not depart, without abandoning the station I held. Some, it is probable, have been offended by this adhesion to principle. Fearing lest my appearance at the solemn ceremony should wound their feelings, or revive the memory of a contest long since buried, I hope, in oblivion, prudence will not allow me to do myself the honour of attending with Rev. Mr. O'Reilly, or to indulge in the satisfaction of

    THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DK. PLUNKET. 223

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Kells, a town in Meath. Back in 1798, Lord Bective, one of the first noblemen in the kingdom, was to lay the foundation stone of a new Catholic chapel here, and the parish priest would receive him on the chapel ground. Bishop Plunket wrote to Lord Bective saying he wished he could attend, but felt he should stay away. He had been a party to a dispute over a late vacancy in the parish, not by inclination but by necessity, and he regretted its consequences deeply. He feared his appearance might wound feelings or revive the memory of a contest he hoped was long buried in oblivion.

36. Fingall's letter on assizes and Defenderism from Killeen Castle

    Killeen Castle · man-made feature · Meath · 1795

    Lord Fingall writes from Killeen Castle discussing the parish priest and O'Connor affair, remarking that insurrections attributed to Popery actually originate in French principles and irreligion, and mentioning county assizes.

    Read the passage

    " As our assizes are on the very day fixed for a meeting of the trustees, and in the present state of this country, I think I am in some degree called upon to shew myself at least, and rather imagine that as many of our gentlemen as can will, or at least ought, to do the same, I do not know how it will be

    204 THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. PLUNKET.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 38

37. Francis Nugent Born at Moyrath, Founds Capuchin Colleges

    Moyrath · townland · Meath · 1635

    Rev. Francis Nugent was born at Moyrath, County Meath, son of Sir Thomas Nugent. He joined the Capuchins, mastered seven languages, and helped establish continental colleges before dying at Charleville in 1635.

    Read the passage

    The Rev. Francis Kugent was born at Moyrath, County Meath, in the sixteenth century. His father was Sir Thomas Nugent of Moyrath, and his mother was the Lady Mary, daughter to Lord Delvin. — ArchdalTs Lodge, vol. i., p. 219. At an early age, he joined the order of Capuchins, and devoted his whole life to place the Irish branch on a permanent and efficient footing. He was a a man of great erudition, and is said to have been master of seven languages. He was visitator of the Irish friars of his order, and was justly regarded as one of their brightest ornaments and lights. He was mainly instrumental in establishing colleges at Charleville and Ledan, on the frontiers of France, which Lewis XIV. got removed to Bar-sur-Aube and Vassy in Champagne. The former was dedicated to St. Bonaventure, and the latter to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin. He wrote a book on meditation — a Cursus Theologicus et Philusophicus — sermons in the .Latin, French, and Italian languages ; a Tractatus de Hibernia, and other works. He died at Charleville in the year 1635, and his memory has been held in great respect. — Harris's Ware's Antiquities, p. 259 ; Notitia Historica Capucinorum, p. 13.

    Eighteenth Century*

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 129

38. Great Repeal Banquet at Navan

    Navan · town · Meath · 1845

    Bishop Cantwell attended the great Repeal Banquet held at Navan on 22 May 1845, reflecting his political engagement with the Repeal movement.

    Read the passage

    On the loth of May, Dr. Cantwell consecrated the new cemetery of Moylough, in the union of Oldcastle ; on the 21st he attended the meeting of the prelates in Dublin, and on the 22nd he attended the great Repeal Banquet at Navan. On the 23rd of July he attended at the election of a Coadjutor-bishop, in Derry ; and on the 5th of August he promoted to the priesthood, in the chapel of Tang, county Westmeath, Rev. Messrs. Shanly* and Duncan.

    Visitation of 1846.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 87

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan in Meath, you are in a town that hosted a great Repeal Banquet on 22 May 1845. Bishop Cantwell attended it, the day after he met with fellow prelates in Dublin. His presence at the banquet reflects his engagement with the Repeal movement.

39. Killing of Sheep and Seizure of Arms at Mayne

    Mayne · townland · Westmeath · 1797

    At Mayne the bishop reprobated the taking away of arms and the killing of sheep in two particular instances, condemning the spirit of thieving that had taken hold locally.

    Read the passage

    „ 17. Mayne (Rev. Pat. Fanning), 50. — The taking away of arms and the killing of sheep in two particular instances reprobated ; the spirit of thieving and stealing condemned. I announced to the flock Rev. Mr. Fanning's resignation of the parish, on account of his disabled and infirm state of body.

    „ 18. I dined at Mr. Campbell's, of Castletown.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 50

40. Loretto Convent Founded at Navan in 1830

    Navan · town · Meath · 1830–1833

    The Loretto Convent at Navan was founded in 1830 and completed in 1833, when a branch of Loretto nuns from Rathfarnham was brought there by Very Rev. Eugene O'Reilly, becoming one of the leading boarding schools in Ireland.

    Read the passage

    This convent was founded, as we have said,* in 1830, and completed in 1833, in which latter year a branch of the Loretto nuns of Rathfarnham was conducted thither, by the late Very Rev. Eugene O'Reilly, pastor of Navan, and Vicar-General of the diocese of Meath. This educational establishment for young ladies has so progressed, owing to the paternal interest taken in it by the Bishop of Meath, and by the friendly patronage of the clergy and laity at large, as well as by the superiority of its staff of teachers, that it ranks at present amongst the first boarding schools in Ireland. The numbers of young ladies seeking to be instructed here, have been so great

    * Diocese of Meath, vol. L, pp 249-250.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 133

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan, this is where the Loretto Convent was founded in 1830 and completed in 1833. That year, Very Rev. Eugene O'Reilly, pastor of Navan and Vicar-General of the diocese of Meath, brought a branch of the Loretto nuns of Rathfarnham here. The school for young ladies grew steadily, with support from the Bishop of Meath, the clergy and laity, and its strong staff of teachers, to rank among the first boarding schools in Ireland.

41. Mischief of the Defenders at Moynalty

    Moynalty · townland · Meath · 1793

    During the 1793 visitation at Moynalty, Bishop Plunket reflected on the mischief brought upon the parish by the Defenders, a violent agrarian secret society active in the area.

    Read the passage

    7. Moynalty (Eev. Pat. Carolan), 25. — Eeflections on the mischief brought on the parish by the Defenders.

    „ 8. Kilbeg (Eev. George M'Dermott), 12.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 47

42. Provincial Prelates' Meeting at Drogheda on Catholic Education

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1794

    At Drogheda in August 1794, the metropolitan and suffragan prelates of the province of Armagh agreed on a plan to fund national education for Roman Catholic youth in Ireland, including diocesan schools and provincial seminaries, through episcopal and parish contributions.

    Read the passage

    " The metropolitan and suffragan prelates of the province of Armagh are of opinion that, in order to accomplish the important purpose of national education for the Eoman Catholic youth of Jreland, a licence should be solicited for the endowment of diocesan schools, provincial seminaries, and of a national establishment. Such licence, once obtained, they think, with all due deference to their M.M.RK. and R.RRR colleagues of the other provinces, that the following means may with propriety be adopted :—

    " 1°. Each bishop will contribute ten guineas annually.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 37

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, this is the town where, in August 1794, the bishops of the province of Armagh met to plan national education for Roman Catholic youth across Ireland. They agreed to seek a licence for endowing diocesan schools, provincial seminaries, and a national establishment. Each bishop would contribute ten guineas annually toward the cost.

43. Defenderism outbreaks near Celbridge and Lucan

    Celbridge · town · Kildare · 1797

    Dr. Troy reports to Dr. Plunket that Defenderism had again spread to the diocese, with several houses plundered of arms in the area around Celbridge and Lucan. As a result, he postponed his visitation indefinitely amid the critical circumstances.

    Read the passage

    " I do suppose that Mr. Pelham will fulfil his promise to contradict the calumnious falsehood of the U. I. M. The time and occasion of doing it must be left to himself. Under the expectation of his compliance, we must remain silent, except in conversation, and, perhaps, after too long a delay, any declaration from us may be thought untimely. If Mr. Pelham complies with his promise, I believe our declaration to the same effect will be unnecessary. Defenderism has extended again to this diocese. Several houses have been plundered of arms this week about Celbridge and Lucan. I have postponed my visitation sine die. We are most critically circumstanced. May God direct us. I enclose Mr. M'DonneLl's letter to me, and Mr. Maguire's answer.

    " In my last letter to Dr. Moylan I urged the necessity of what your Lordship mentions concerning Dr. Hussey's resignation of the Presidency. I have done the same in a late letter to Dr. Hussey himself, assuring him that everyone present at our late meeting here considered the Presidency as incompa-

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 40

44. Founding of the Diocesan Academy and Seminary at Navan

    Navan · town · Meath · 1802

    In 1802 Dr. Plunket announced he had obtained a lease of a house and ground near Navan to establish a diocesan academy and seminary, intended to provide Catholic education for both affluent laymen's sons and aspiring clergy. He had already spent £500 fitting out the new house and sought subscriptions from clergy and laity to complete the project.

    Read the passage

    " I take this opportunity to inform you that I have lately obtained a lease for ever of a house and piece of ground contiguous to the town of Navan, which I destine for a diocesan academy and seminary. As an academy, it will, I flatter myself, furnish the sons of affluent individuals of our persuasion with all the necessary means of a Catholic and genteel education. As a seminary, it is to unite in favour of those who aspire to our holy state, such advantages of regular discipline and select classical study as are most likely to lay the foundation of the solid piety and extensive knowledge, which will hereafter, in our national college, form the virtuous and enlightened ecclesiastic.

    "For some years past, Meaih, wealthy Catholic Meath, has been strangely deficient in point of respectable domestic instruction. At no former period was this ominous deficiency so remarkable as at present. With much difficulty were twelve •students found throughout the whole diocese barely qualified to

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Navan in Meath. In 1802 Dr. Plunket announced he had obtained a lease of a house and ground near this town to establish a diocesan academy and seminary. As an academy it was meant to give the sons of affluent Catholics what he called a genteel education, and as a seminary it was to train aspiring clergy in discipline and classical study. He had already spent £500 fitting out the house and was seeking subscriptions from clergy and laity to complete the project. Plunket noted that Meath had been strangely deficient in respectable domestic instruction, saying at no former period was this ominous deficiency so remarkable as at present, with barely twelve students found throughout the whole diocese qualified to proceed.

45. John de Dubleton Buried at Kells

    Kells · town · Meath · 1288–1320

    John de Dubleton, an Englishman and Oxford student, became Archdeacon of Meath and Rector of Kells, writing treatises on logic and philosophy. He died on 18 November (recorded variously as 1288 or 1320) and was buried in Kells.

    Read the passage

    By some his death is recorded at A.D. 1288. Others say he lived to the year 1320. He died on the 18th of November, and was buried in Kells. — See Harris, p. 319.

    William de Paul was consecrated Bishop of Meath in 1327, and died in 1349. He wrote several works on theology and philosophy. — See Diocese of Meath, vol. 1st, p. 76.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 124

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kells, you're in a town where John de Dubleton was buried. He was an Englishman, an Oxford student, and served as Archdeacon of Meath and Rector of Kells, writing treatises on logic and philosophy. He died on the 18th of November, though the year is uncertain — some say 1288, others 1320.

46. Ruins of St. Loman's Church and disentombed coffin-stone

    Portloman · townland · Westmeath

    The ruins of St. Loman's Church stand on the margin of Lough Owel near Mullingar, measuring seventy-seven by twenty feet. A coffin-shaped stone with an inscribed cross, marking the grave of a distinguished ecclesiastic, was found deeply embedded in clay and disentombed.

    Read the passage

    The ruins of St. Loman's Church are situated on the very margin of Lough Owel, about three and a-half miles to the north- west of Mullingar, and measure seventy-seven feet by twenty feet four inches. A stone, shaped like the lid of a coffin, having a cross inscribed, *was found some years ago deeply embedded in the clay, and was disentombed. It seems to have marked the grave of some distinguished ecclesiastic. The tourist or pilgrim who visits Portloman will linger long before he can withdraw himself from the enchanting scenery which meets him on all sides, and, above all, from the venerable consecrated walls, endeared by so many associations of religious worship, and now sacred and solemn for being the resting-place of the dead.

    602 ABBEYS OF WESTMEATH.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 115

47. Andrew Nugent, lay-brother, buried at Multyfarnham

    Fearbranagh or Multyfarnham · townland · Westmeath · 1614

    Andrew Nugent, of the Delvin family, became a lay-brother at Multifarnam after his wife's death, rigorously observed the order's rules, died in 1614 aged 70, and was buried with his brethren in the cemetery there.

    Read the passage

    the Delvin family, after the death of his wife, resigned the world, became a lay-brother in Multifarnam, rigorously observed the rules of the order, died in 1614, in the 70th year of his age, and was buried with his brethren in the cemetery of Multifarnam.

    Father Mooney has fortunately left on record a few notices of some of the friars, then living, with whose sufferings for the faith and services he was familiar.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 114

48. Calamities of Defenderism Deplored at Multyfarnham

    Fearbranagh or Multyfarnham · townland · Westmeath · 1797

    At Multyfarnham the bishop deplored the calamities provoked by the Defender movement and blamed bad company and drunkenness for drawing local people into the unrest.

    Read the passage

    „ 12. Multifarnam (Rev. James Moran), 34. — The calamities provoked by Defenderism, and their causes deplored; bad company and drunkenness particularized.

    „ 13. I dined at Mr. Delamer's, of Lackin.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 50

49. Cuchonacht O'Daly Dies at Clonard

    Clonard · town · Meath · 1139

    Cuchonacht O'Daly, born at Leckin in Westmeath, was chief ollamh in poetry and died at Clonard in 1139 according to the Four Masters.

    Read the passage

    Cuchonacht O'Daly was born at Leckin, in Westmeath, ^nd was a distinguished poet. There were many celebrated poets of this family, and the poetic gift seems to have been hereditary in them. The Four Masters record his death at A.D. 1139 — "Cuchonacht O'Daly, chief ollamph in poetry, died at Clonard. He was of Leckin, in Meath."

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Clonard, it's worth knowing that in 1139, Cuchonacht O'Daly died here. He was born at Leckin in Westmeath and came from a family where the poetic gift seems to have been hereditary. The Four Masters record his death and call him "chief ollamh in poetry" — the head poet of Ireland.

50. Death of Archbishop James Butler in Thurles

    Thurles · town · Tipperary · 1791

    Dr. James Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, died in Thurles on 29 July 1791 after a lingering illness marked by dropsy and violent spasms. His death was reported in letters by Rev. Edmund Cormick to Dr. Plunket.

    Read the passage

    " Our dearest Archbishop is no more. He died about half-an-hour since, and will be buried in Thurles. May the Lord comfort us.

    " I am your Lordship's most afflicted servant,

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Thurles, this is where Archbishop James Butler of Cashel died on 29 July 1791 after a lingering illness of dropsy and violent spasms. Rev. Edmund Cormick wrote to Dr. Plunket with the news: "Our dearest Archbishop is no more. He died about half-an-hour since, and will be buried in Thurles."

51. Death of Rev. James Fleming from a Fall from Horse

    Dunsany · townland · Meath · 1805

    Rev. James Fleming, parish priest of Dunsany, died on 16 September 1805 as a result of a fall from his horse, prompting the bishop to appoint Rev. Eugene O'Reilly as his successor.

    Read the passage

    O'Eeilly P.P. of Dunsany, &c., in the room of Rev. James Fleming, who died on the 16th, in consequence of a fall from his horse.

    Sept. 22. Tullamore (Rev. James Murray), 173. — Compliments on the improvements made in the new chapel, and on the parochial house begun ; parents reproached for neglecting the Christian education of children ; Sunday profaned by dangerous amusements. „ 25. Kilbeggan (Rev. Thomas Dunn), 112. — Pilfering and thieving prove that Catholics guilty of such sins either know not the dispositions requisite for the Sacraments of Penance and the Eucharist, or take no pains to have them when they approach these Sacraments, and thus bring disgrace on the Catholic Church, and indispose against her doctrine persons of different persuasion, inducing them tothink unfavourably of confession and Communion. „ 27. Castletown-Geoghegan, at Jamestown Chapel (Rev,

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 58

52. Drunkenness and violence denounced at Drumcondra

    Drumcondra · town · Meath · 1795

    During his visitation, Bishop Plunket preached at Drumcondra against drunkenness and the acts of violence and plunder that sprang from it, reflecting concerns about disorder in the parish.

    Read the passage

    „ 22. Drumcondra (Rev. Luke Maglew), 7. — Drunkenness inveighed against, and the vices that spring from it, viz. : — Acts of violence and plunder pointed at.

    „ 23. I spent this day at Rahood.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 48

53. Fatal Fall from Horse of Curate at Fore

    Fore · townland · Westmeath · 1815

    Rev. Pat Maguirk, curate at Fore, died from a concussion of the brain followed by lockjaw after falling from his horse, an event recorded during the 1815 visitation.

    Read the passage

    May 1 3. This day Rev. Pat. Maguirk, in consequence of a fall from his horse, died of a concussion of the brain, followed by a locked jaw. He was curate at Fore.

    „ 14. Kells (Rev. P. O'Reilly, Archdeacon), 194.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 70

54. General distress and scarcity cited as sign of divine anger, Navan 1800

    Navan · town · Meath · 1800

    During the visitation at Navan, the bishop's exhortation focused on the flock's ingratitude and neglect of religious duty, with the scarcity of provisions of the time cited as an instance of the anger of heaven.

    Read the passage

    June 1. I began my twenty-first visitation at Navan. „ „ Navan, 173 confirmed. — The exhortation was principally directed to that class of the flock who, being most favoured by Divine Providence, were most ungrateful, and most backward and deficient in all the great duties of religion. The scarcity of provisions alluded to as an instance of the anger of heaven.

    THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. PLUNKET. 309

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan, you're in a town where, in June 1800, the bishop held his twenty-first visitation and confirmed 173 people. His exhortation was aimed at those most favoured by Providence who were nonetheless ungrateful and backward in their religious duties. The scarcity of provisions at the time was pointed to as an instance of the anger of heaven.

55. Guana the Scribe of Trevet

    Trevet · townland · Meath · 734–738

    Guana, a scribe of Trevet, died in 734 or 738 according to different annals. He is supposed to have authored the Book of Guana, an early book of annals.

    Read the passage

    Guana, a scribe of Trevet, died, according to the Four Masters, in the year 734, but in 738, according to the Annals of Ulster. He is supposed to have been the author of the Book of Guana, or Guana's Book of Annals.

    Aengus, Abbot of Clonard (in Westmeath), died in 741. He composed a hymn in Latin, and died, according to the Four Masters, in the year 741. (See Harris's Ware, p. 47.) About this time flourished Collat, or Collait, a priest of Druimroilgeach, in Meath, who compiled a Life of St. Patrick. (Usher's Primord., p. 818; Tripartite Life of St. Patrick, apud O'Curry, p. 608 ; Lanigan, vol. i., p. 87.)

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here lived Guana, a scribe of Trevet. He died in 734 according to the Four Masters, or in 738 according to the Annals of Ulster. He is supposed to have been the author of the Book of Guana, an early book of annals.

56. Logan becomes parish priest of Duleek

    Duleek · town · Meath · 1819

    Logan assisted the infirm Rev. Mr. Kearney of Duleek as curate and administrator, and upon Kearney's death in spring 1819 became parish priest of Duleek himself.

    Read the passage

    Robert Logan was born in the parish of Bective, near Navan,* in the year 1784. After a preliminary education,, he studied in the Seminary of Navan, and completed his ecclesiastical studies in the College of Maynooth. Having received ordination, he officiated as curate in Ardbraccan, and, subsequently, in Navan, under the venerable Dr. Plunket, in both of which parishes lie is still gratefully and affectionately remembered, for his profound humility, his great zeal, his practical instructions,^ and his many priestly virtues. When the Rev. Mr. Kearney, of Duleek, became infirm, he was sent to assist him as curate, next as administrator, and, after his death, in the spring of 1819, he became parish priest of Duleek. We next find him vicar-general of the diocese, and at the election of a coadjutor-bishop, he was dignior- on the list. The venerable Primate, Dr. Curtis, wrote to Rome, in very eulogistic terms, recommending him, and Dr. Plunket humbly supplicated the Holy See, to have him appointed. Accordingly he was selected, and was consecrated in the chapel of Duleek, on the 29th of October, 1824, as Episcopus Tremithopolitanusj and Coadjutor of Meath, by the Most Rev. Dr. Curtis, assisted by Dr. Murray, Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. Plunket, &c., &c. For two years, after his consecration he accompanied the aged patriarch of the diocese, Dr. Plunket, on his visitation from parish to parish, and after his death, in January,

    * This portion of Bective is, at present, comprehended in the parish of Navan.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 83

57. Riotous Disturbances at Summerhill Fairs

    Summerhill · street · Meath · 1793

    During the 1793 visitation at Summerhill, thanks were expressed for contributions toward a new second chapel in the parish, while the bishop also reprobated the riotous disposition of some of the people at fairs.

    Read the passage

    „ 29. Summerhill (Eev. John Cregan), 32. — Acknowledgements expressed for Mr. Eowley's contribution, and that of Lord Bective and Mr. Winter, towards the erection of the second chapel in the parish, with remarks reprobating the riotous disposition of some of the people at fairs, &c. Nov. 1. Moynalvey, (Eev. Ei chard Meighan), 13. — Clandestine marriages. This evening I came with Eev. Mr. Fagan to Dunshaughlin.

    „ 2. This afternoon I went to Sydenham.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 47

58. Arson threatened with divine vengeance at Ardbraccan

    Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1801

    During the bishop's visitation of Ardbraccan, respect for property laws was inculcated and indignation expressed against an individual who had set fire to a house. This was cited as a serious crime requiring condemnation from the pulpit.

    Read the passage

    „ 29. Ardbraccan (Rev. Michael Branagan, P.P.), 57. — Respect inculcated for the laws that protect property, and indignation manifested against some individual who had violated them by setting fire to a house.

    Oct. 1. Dunderry Bridge (Rev. Michael Tipper, O.M.), 60. — The Christian education of children neglected ; the morals of young persons endangered by dances and irregular meetings on Sundays and holidays.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 55

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Ardbraccan, in 1801, the bishop's visitation addressed a serious crime. The parish priest, Reverend Michael Branagan, used the pulpit to teach respect for the laws protecting property and to condemn an individual who had set fire to a house.

59. Burial and monument of Archbishop Butler at Thurles chapel

    Thurles · town · Tipperary · 1791

    Archbishop Butler was buried with due honour in the chapel of Thurles, where a monument was erected bearing a Latin epitaph praising his virtues and apostolic zeal as ruler of the province of Munster.

    Read the passage

    The great prelate was buried with due honour and celebration in the chapel of Thurles, and over his remains a monument has been erected with the following epitaph* :

    i. H. s.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Thurles, the chapel here holds the remains of Archbishop Butler, buried in 1791 with full honour. A monument stands over him, its Latin epitaph praising his virtues and his apostolic zeal as ruler of the province of Munster.

60. Burning and plundering of Lynally, Clonard, Fore and Disert-Tola

    Lynally · parish · Offaly · 970

    In 970 the monasteries of Lynally, Clonard, Fore, and Disert-Tola were burned and plundered by Donnell Mac Murchadh.

    Read the passage

    " 970. Lynally, Clonard, Fore, and Disert-Tola, were burned and plundered by Donnell Mac Murchadh.

    " 974. Conaing, Abbot of Connor and Lynally, died.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 116