The early history of the town of Birr, or Parsonstown : with the particulars of remarkable events there in more recent times, also the towns of Nenagh, Roscrea, Banagher, Tullamore, Philipstown, Frankford, Shinrone, Kinnetty and Ballyboy and the ancient septs, princes, and celebrated places of the surrounding country

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. Repeated Burnings and Plunder of Roscrea

   Roscrea · town · Tipperary · 1133–1154

   Roscrea was destroyed or greatly injured by fires in 1133, 1135, and 1147, and was plundered in 1153 by the Eoganaght of Cashel, with the abbey and town suffering a further general conflagration the following year.

   Read the passage

   Eoscrea seems to have suffered much in former times from fire, as well as from plunderers, for we find it was " destroyed," or greatly injured by fires in the years 1133, 1135, and 1147. Again, notwithstanding the lesson taught the Danes two centuries before, the town was plundered in the year 1153 by the Eoganaght of Cashel, a tract of about twelve miles round that city ; while it appears that in the following year, the Abbey and town once more suffered from " a

   Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 58

2. Saint Reynach founds religious house at Banagher, ruins survive

   Banagher · town · Offaly · 563

   The parish of Banagher was named for Saint Reynach, sister of Saint Finian of Clonard who died in 563; she founded a religious establishment here called Kill-Eignaighe, whose ruins remain in the centre of Banagher surrounded by the parish burial ground.

   Read the passage

   The well-known town of Banagher which, according to the adage, could " bang " even his sable majesty heretofore, is placed on the side of a long hill sloping down to the river Shannon which flows by the town. Banagher is about six miles north-west from Birr, in the parish of Eeynach or Eeynagh, and barony of Garry castle. The old name of the town was Beandcor, which seems to have originated from the hill on which it stands, Beannchor meaning a pointed hill. There are other derivations also given for the name Banagher. It is called " Bannogh " on Mer cater* s Atlas, published in 1623, and was likewise known, more lately, as Fortfalkland. The parish derived its name from Saint Eeynach, Eegnacia, or Eignacia, sister of Saint Finian, who presided at Clonard and died in 563, having founded here a religious establishment, of which she was abbess. The ruins now on the site of this ancient house, which was called Kill-Eignaighe, " the church

   316 THE TOWN OF BANAGHER.

   Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 133

3. St. Kyran the Elder Founds Nunnery at Killyon

   Killyon · townland · Offaly

   At Killyon, about a mile and a half from Saigher, St. Kyran the elder founded a nunnery, said to have probably been the first in Ireland. The site lay in Fearcall, in the kingdom of Meath, separated from Ely by the Comcor or Birr river.

   Read the passage

   At the place now called Killyon, about a mile and a-half from Saigher, St. Kyran the elder founded a nunnery, probably the first in Ireland. By the divisions of the country at the time, however, as already noticed, the monastery at Seir Kyran was in Ely, in eastern Munster, but the nunnery at Killyon was in Fearcall, in the kingdom of Meath — the Comcor, or Birr river, forming the boundary between these divisions in this neighbourhood. Clonbrone, referred to hereafter, was also in Fearcall, but owing to the connexion between these places, it seems better to refer to them immediately following each other, although not all in the ancient Ely 0' Carroll.

   The remains of the very old religious establishment at Killyon stand on a slight eminence close to the road leading from Birr to Kinnitty, and almost half-way

   Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 77

4. St. Sincheal, Abbot and Bishop, buried at Killoughy at age 130

   Killoughy · townland · Offaly

   St. Sincheal M'Cenenain was Abbot and Bishop of Kill-achad-drom-foda (Killoughy), reportedly dying at the age of 130 years and being interred in this abbey.

   Read the passage

   drom-foda, and that he died at the age of 130 years, and was interred in this abbey. St. JEngusius, in his litany, thus invokes him and others who "rest" in Killoughy — " Terquinquagenos sanctos monachos cum 12 peregrinis, qui cum Sto Sinchello junior e presbytero, 6f Sto Sinchello seniore episcopo, fy 12 episcopis qui quiescunt in Kittachaddromfoda in regione Hyfailge ; invoco in auxilium meum per Jesum Christum"

   There were many other celebrated abbeys, castles, &c., in the portion of ancient Offaley included in the modern King's County, as Durrow of St. Columb or Columbkill, Lynally called formerly Landelo, Ballycowen, &c., but which could not be particularly referred to here.

   Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 113

5. The English erect the castle of Cinneitigh, 1213

   Kinnitty · parish · Offaly · 1213

   The Four Masters record that in 1213 the English erected the castle of Cinneitigh, an old name for Kinnitty.

   Read the passage

   The name of this place was differently spelled in old documents. Thus it was spelled Ceann-etich, which would mean Etech's head, and according to a note in the Felire of Aenguis, at the 7th of April, St. Finan's festival day, it was so-called because the head of Etech, an ancient Irish heroine, was buried there. The Four Masters, however, have it " Cinneitigh," in the passage at the year 1213, where they record that the English " erected the castle of Cinneitigh " (see p. 21). In a different copy of these Annals it is spelled " Cinneidigh," which seems more near the proper orthography. It is very probable, however, that this parish acquired its name from there having been in it a cell belonging to the celebrated St. Ita, whose name

   150 KINNITTY.

   Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 67

6. The Reileace Cailleach and Church of the Nuns

   Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly

   On the opposite side of the churchyard from the castle at Clonmacnoise lies the Reileace Cailleach, a square enclosure faced with rough stones of very early date, within which stood the Teampall Cailleach or "Church of the Nuns," valued as a landmark of known erection date and ancient Irish ecclesiastical architecture.

   Read the passage

   On the opposite side of the churchyard from the castle, and at a somewhat greater distance from it, is the Reileace Cailleach, a nearly square enclosure the fence of which was originally faced with large rough stones, and appears to have been of very early date indeed. Within this fence or enclosure, was the Teampatt CaiUeach, or " Church of the Nuns." The remains of this small church, were it only for the associations connected with it, would seem to many to be even the most interesting portion of the very interesting antiquarian remains at Clonmacnoise. But, if the " Church of the Nuns " is valuable as a landmark in our history — the exact date of erection being known — it also affords a reliable example of ancient Irish ecclesiastical architecture of the period. We must, however, let others fully describe, and let our readers judge for themselves, the architectural and other beauties of Clonmacnoise, it being our task here to give a general idea of the early history of the place.

   It appears a religious house for nuns was founded

   Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 154

7. Tomb of the Darby family at Aghancon churchyard, 1604

   Aghancon · townland · Offaly · 1604

   In Aghancon churchyard, near Leap Castle and close to the church walls, there was the tomb of a member of the Darby family with a historically important inscription dated 1604, alongside a curious silver seal bearing the family's 1588 arms found at the same place.

   Read the passage

   The Darby family are of English extraction. Archdeacon Darby, one of the family, built the Divinity School at the University of Oxford, in the reign of Henry VII., but the family trace their pedigree to a much earlier period. The Leap branch of the family arc descended from Sir William Darby of Gadsby Hall, Lincolnshire, and settled in Ireland at a very early date. There was heretofore in Aghancon churchyard— not far from Leap Castle, and close to the walls of the church — the tomb of one of the family, having an inscription of some historic importance, dated in 1604. A very curious silver seal, with the present arms of the family, was found at the same place. These arms were granted in 1588, and there is on the seal the Knight banneret's helmet, to which it seems the Darby family were entitled by grant. This seal is in the possession of the Kev. C. Darby of Kells Priory, Kilkenny, brother to Mr. Darby of Leap Castle. In the wars of Charles L, the family appear to have remained faithful to the King against the Parliament, and the representative of the Leap family at the time — known as " the wild captain," and who was son to him whose tomb has been referred to — valiantly resisted Cromwell's forces. It is said that having been at length taken prisoner, " the wild captain" was confined in the old gaol of Birr, but his legs having mortified from the cruelty of his confinement, he was pardoned by Cromwell, and on his

   220 LEAP CASTLE.

   Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 95

8. White magpies appear at the Rapemills in 1830

   Rape Mills · population centre · Offaly · 1830

   The neighbourhood of the Rapemills was remarkable for the appearance in 1830 of white magpies, birds very uncommon in Ireland, and magpies remained numerous there even at the time of writing.

   Read the passage

   Not far beyond " the Eidge" is the place called the "Eapemills," half way between Birr and Banagher, and where, about forty years ago, a remarkable and fatal event took place. At that time a fire-ball or meteoric stone, somewhat similar to the one which fell at Cloneen in 1827, (p. 243), descended upon the mill from which this place derives its modern name, and having broken through the roof, blew out the windows, threw down the lofts, and killed Mr. Woods the proprietor, who happened to be there at the time. The neighbourhood of the " Eapemills " was also remarkable for the appearance there, in the year 1830, of white magpies — birds very uncommon in Ireland. It seems that even the common magpie was not known in Ireland a century ago. It was called pianet, and in Irish maggidipye. Even at the present day magpies are numerous in this neighbourhood. A small river sinks into the earth here in a very remarkable way, rising again at a considerable distance.

   314 BALLAGHAXOHER AND GARRYCASTLE.

   Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 132

9. Cenotaph laid for Thomas Clere Parsons at Scurragh, near Birr

   Scurragh · street · Offaly · 1825–1827

   After Thomas Clere Parsons died in August 1825, a public subscription raised over £200 for a memorial obelisk designed by Bernard Mullins, resembling the Wellington Testimonial, to be erected at Scurragh near Birr, with the first stone laid on 3 May 1827.

   Read the passage

   design of an obelisk, as furnished by Bernard Mullins, Esq., which was intended to be about seventy feet high, and would resemble the Wellington Testimonial in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, but be smaller, and more beautiful. An appropriate site for this obelisk was selected at Scurragh, near the town, where, on a rising ground over the river, and visible from all sides, it was intended to be a lasting testimonial to departed virtue.

   At length, everything being ready for the laying of the first stone, a numerous meeting of the subscribers, of which the late Colonel Bernard, M.P., was chairman, was held in Birr on the 3rd of May 1827, when the report of the committee was unanimously approved of. The meeting being over, the gentlemen who attended it proceeded to the Court-house, where the Quarter Sessions was adjourned by "W. P. Cruise, Esq., then chairman, to enable himself, the Grand Jury, and officers of the court, to join in the ceremony of the day. From thence the procession moved forward through Cumberland Street, the Square, and over Oxmantown Bridge, to Scurragh, where the foundation had been previously excavated. The following was the order of the procession : — A party of police with arms reversed, two deep ; Children of the Boys' Free School, which had been patronized by Mr. Parsons, four deep ; the Attorneys practising at Sessions, two deep ; the Sheriff of the King's County, bearing his wand of office ; the Deputy Clerk of the Peace ; W. P. Cruise, Esq., then chairman of the

   Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 53

10. Birr Burned and the Synod of Birr

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1167–1170

    Birr was burned in 1167, and shortly after in 1170 a church synod known as the Synod of Birr was held there, as recorded in the Annals of Boyle.

    Read the passage

    A great sacrilege was committed at Birr in 1154, by the killing of Amhleoimbh O'Hendersgeol, King of Cathlnighe, at the church door. Cathluighe was a territory of South Munster. Birr was burned in 1167 ; and the Annals of Boyle record that, in 1170, a synod called "The Synod of Birr," was held there.

    In the year 1174, Kughry O'Carroll, "King of Ely," was slain by his brother, in Inis Clothrann, in the river Shannon.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 17

11. Danes Plunder Birr and Saigher

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 841–842

    The Four Masters record that in 841 Birr and Saigher were plundered by the foreigners of the Boyne, meaning the Danes or Ostmen, with both places likely suffering again the following year.

    Read the passage

    Birr was plundered three times in the year 833, by Feidhlim MacCriomthan, the King of Munster. The wealth of the place at that period may be judged of, from its having been considered a worthy object for royal plunder so often in the course of the same year. Nor was it the Irish alone that considered it worth notice, for the Four Masters mention under date 841 : — " The plundering of Birr and Saigher by the foreigners of the Boyne ; " meaning the Danes or Ostmen. There is good reason to believe that these two places suffered in a similar way the following year.

    In 842, the eleventh year of Niall, Dodin, Bishop of Birr, died ; and in 851 — the seventh year of Maelseachlainn — died Flaithnia, son of Conghall, Bishop and Abbot of Birr.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 17

12. Destruction of Caislen-an-Fothair in 1517

    Garrycastle · townland · Offaly · 1517

    The Four Masters record that in 1517, following a dispute involving Maolroona O'Carroll and the people of Delvin, the Earl of Kildare was invited to help and they destroyed the wall of the castle of Fothair of Delvin.

    Read the passage

    principal strongholds of MacCoghlan. The Four Masters call it Caislen-an-Fothair at the year 1517, where they relate that " a great commotion " having arisen between Maolroona O'Carroll and the people of Delvin, "they and O'Melaghlin having invited the Earl (of Kildare) to aid them, they destroyed the castle of Fothair of Delvin, namely, the wall of the castle." It appears from this that Ballaghanoher, or 13ealach-an-Fothair, then extended to this castle, and that the castle must have been held at the time by O'Carroll, with whom the Delvinians were in contention.

    The well-known town of Banagher which, according to the adage, could " bang " even his sable majesty heretofore, is placed on the side of a long hill sloping down to the river Shannon which flows by the town. Banagher is about six miles north-west from Birr, in the parish of Eeynach or Eeynagh, and barony of Garry castle. The old name of the town was Beandcor, which seems to have originated from the hill on which it stands, Beannchor meaning a pointed hill. There are other derivations also given for the name Banagher. It is called " Bannogh " on Mer cater* s Atlas, published in 1623, and was likewise known, more lately, as Fortfalkland. The parish derived its name from Saint Eeynach, Eegnacia, or Eignacia, sister of Saint Finian, who presided at Clonard and died in 563, having founded here a religious establishment, of which she was abbess. The ruins now on the site of this ancient house, which was called Kill-Eignaighe, " the church

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 133

13. Earl of Kildare takes castles of Eglish and Ballindown

    Eglish · townland · Offaly · 1532

    In 1532 the Earl of Kildare took Caislean-na-Hegailse and the castle of Ballindooney, the castles of Eglish and Ballindown, both in Fearcall. Eglish also contains the remains of an ancient abbey, and lies near Dowris.

    Read the passage

    It has been seen (p. 25), that in 1532 the Earl of Kildare took Caislean-na-Hegailse and the castle of Ballindooney, that is, the castles of Eglish and of Ballindown. Both these places are in Fearcall; Eglish, where are also the remains of an ancient abbey, being in the neighbourhood of Dowris, while Ballindown is nearer to Birr. The name Ballindown is said by Dr. O'Donovan to mean the " town of the Dun, or earthen fort." Amongst the volunteer corps raised in the King's County, we find (p. 91), the " Eglish Eangers" associated the 29th of August 17Y9, the uniform being scarlet, faced black, with silver epaulets. Major, Thomas Berry; Captain, John Drought; and Lieutenant, «T. C. Clarke.

    The celebrated heath or plain of Moylena, according to OTlaherty and other writers, was in the portion of ancient Fearcall now comprised in the Barony of Eglish. On this plain was fought in the year 192, the battle of Moylena — called Cath Muighelena by the Irish bards and historians — where the monarch,

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 106

14. Surviving Gate-house and Flanking Tower at Killyon

    Killyon · townland · Offaly

    About thirty years before writing, a considerable part of the remains of the Killyon religious house still stood, including a gate-house with a twelve-foot wall and a small round flanking tower with loopholes commanding the enclosure walls.

    Read the passage

    between them. Mr. Archdall calls this place Killiadhuin, and says that all we can learn about it is, that in the beginning of the fifth century, St. " Keran of Saigher" founded the nunnery of Killiadhuin for his mother, Liadana, near to his own abbey. This seems to be almost the entire information to be now gathered concerning the early history of this place. It appears, however, that if not the very first, this must, at all events, have been one of the earliest nunneries in Ireland, and could we now see it as founded nearly fourteen centuries ago, no doubt there would be a great contrast between this primitive nunnery of Liadana, and the present very beautiful convents in the neighbourhood, at Birr and Roscrea. The name Liadana, or Liadhuin — pronounced as if written Leean — by having prefixed to it till, or kill, a cell, or place of retirement, forms Killyon, the name thus preserved through so many centuries. About thirty years ago, a considerable part of the remains of this religious house were standing, and included the gate-house, with a wall about twelve feet high, and a small round flanking tower at one of the corners of the quadrangle. The loopholes of this tower commanded the outside of the wall, on two faces of the enclosure. The gate-house was square, and the gate itself must have been capable of being very firmly secured, for there were diagonal holes running through the masonry on each side, apparently intended for chains. In early times this must have been a place of great hospitality, for about the year 1847, there was

    180 KILLYON.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 78

15. Unfinished Parsons Testimonial at Birr disappears entirely

    Scurragh · street · Offaly · 1827–1875

    The Parsons cenotaph testimonial was left unfinished due to lack of funds, and in later years even the portion already built, costing subscribers nearly £200, disappeared entirely, its materials reportedly used elsewhere.

    Read the passage

    The first stone having been thus laid, the work progressed but slowly, in consequence of much delay on the part of the contractor ; and when at length, after a considerable time, the funds collected had been expended, the testimonial was not completed. . The greater portion of it was erected, however, and was beautifully and elaborately executed in cut and carved stone, so as to give an idea of what this testimonial would have been if finished. Unfortunately, however, the work was left thus unfinished until late years, when, instead of being completed by the people of Birr, or, if necessary, by the family of the deceased to whose memory it had been dedicated, even the portion of the testimonial already erected, with its materials, which had cost the subscribers nearly £200, disappeared altogether ! In former times the Goths and Vandals, as we are told, did not hesitate to destroy and carry away even the memorials of the dead, and they were justly execrated by all civilized nations for doing so; but in late days there are few instances such as the disappearance of the "Parsons Testimonial " in Birr. It is said that the materials of this unfinished testimonial — dedicated to the honour of the dead, and paid for by friends who have now themselves mostly passed away — have been used in

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 54

16. Coghlan Forfeiture of Killyon Estate under William III

    Killyon · townland · Offaly · 1685–1690

    Terence and John Coghlan held Killyon and other lands during the reign of James II but forfeited them upon the accession of William III; these lands were later sold to John Asgill of Ross Castle by the Commissioners for sale of forfeited estates.

    Read the passage

    Killyon, and other lands in that neighbourhood, were the property of Terence and John Coghlan, in the reign of King James II. How the Coghlans acquired these lands does not appear, but they forfeited them when William III. succeeded to the throne. These, together with other lands, were subsequently sold to John Asgill of Eoss Castle, by the Commissioners for sale of forfeited estates. The Conveyance describes them as, "the manor of Killyon, with the castles, towns, and lands of Eathure," &c., &c. ; and adds that these lands had been u the estate of Terence and John Coghlan, attainted." A person, apparently of some consequence, named Herbert, or Harbert, resided at Killyon in 1634 ; for, by a Deed, made on the 1st of January that year, Daniel M'Gruilfoyle conveyed to him and others, including Eobert Sweetman of Birr,

    CLONBRONE. I S.'>

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 79

17. General Ireton Takes and Burns Birr, 1650

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1650

    Birr was taken from the Irish by General Ireton in 1650; the enemy had left and burned it before Ireton's forces arrived while he was en route to besiege Limerick.

    Read the passage

    Birr was taken from the Irish by General Ireton, in 1650. We learn from the History of the Irish Rebellion of 1641, that soon after the Bishop of Clogher's defeat at Londonderry, Ireton and Sir Charles Coote, joining their forces, appeared before Athlone to try if they could gain that garrison ; but finding the bridge broken down, and the town partly burned, Sir Charles Coote stayed there to straiten it; whilst Ireton, taking two castles in MacColocche's country, and also Birr (which the enemy had left and burned), presently seated himself before Limerick, where he received certain intelligence that the Marquis of Clanrikarde had" retaken the two castles, and

    HISTORY OF BIRR. ()")

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 34

18. Inquisition of 1568 on Monaincha's lands

    Corbally · townland · Tipperary · 1568

    An inquisition taken in 1568 found the monastery of Canons Regular at the Island of the Living, otherwise Inchenebo, held lands including the island itself with two chapels and the nearby village of Corbally where the prior and convent dwelt.

    Read the passage

    By an inquisition taken in the year 1568, it was found " that the monastery of Canons Regular of the Virgin Mary, in the Island of the Living, otherwise called Inchenebo, was seized of the following lands : — The island, which contained three acres of moor, wherein were two chapels; and near the island a village called Corballi, in which the prior and convent

    MONAINCHA. 147

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft

19. Lord Leonard Grey takes castles of Eglish, Birr and Modereny, 1537

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1537

    In June 1537 Lord Leonard Grey, then Lord Deputy, took the castles of Eglish, Birr, and Modereny, and at the same time the castles of Modrymore and Broghill according to the Annals of Boyle.

    Read the passage

    In June 1537, according to Mageoghagan, Lord Leonard Grey, then Lord Deputy, took the castles of Eglish, Birr, and Modereny ; and, as appears by the Annals of Boyle, he took at same time the castles of Modrymore and Broghill. The same year we find 0' Carroll, Chieftain of Ely, in Dublin, making submission to Lord Grey ; but, notwithstanding this submission, it seems one of the accusations against Lord Grey, when he was afterwards beheaded, was his

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 18

20. MacEgan Family at Redwood Castle

    Redwood · townland · Tipperary · 1602

    Dionysius MacEgan is recorded living in 1602 at the Castle of Coillte Ruadha, known as Redwood, a stronghold of the MacEgan brehon family. The name derives from Irish words for wood and red.

    Read the passage

    to have been the chief seat of this ancient family in Ormond, but we find Dionysius MacEgan living in 1602, in the Castle of Coillte Euadha, or "Kedwood" as the place is still named, coillte being Irish for a wood, and ruadha signifying red(see p. 285). Even within late years Darius John MacEgan, solicitor, the representative of this branch of the MacEgans — they appear even yet to have a taste for the profession of laws, in which they were so eminent — held in the neighbourhood of Redwood a portion of their former possessions, yet known as Ballymacegan, " the town of MacEgan," and he is still the owner in fee of Ballyoughter, within five miles of Lorha Abbey, the burial place of the family.

    The Brehons having been so often alluded to in connexion with the MacEgans, a few observations as to the nature of Brehonism may be acceptable to some of our readers. The Irish term Breitheamh, from which comes Brehon, signifies a Judge, the Brehons having been judges and professors of the law, who in former times proclaimed the laws, and delivered judgments to the chiefs and people. This was generally done on hills and raths on public occasions. Brehonism and Bardism, as well as Druidism, prevailed in Ireland from the earliest times, but the introduction of Christianity caused the Druids, or pagan priests, to disappear, while Bards and Brehons were still found in Christian, as well as in pagan times. Many of these ancient Brehons flourished from the first to the eighth century, and perfected a code of laws which, from their

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 124

21. Oxmantown Bridge built at Birr in 1817

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1817–1855

    The Oxmantown Bridge at Birr was erected in 1817, modelled on a bridge over the river Anio in Italy chosen by the Earl of Rosse, and named for his heir Baron Oxmantown; built by Michael Downey, with arches later lowered in 1855.

    Read the passage

    In 1817, the present " Oxmantown Bridge " was erected at Birr, after the design of a bridge over the river Anio, in Italy, which design was selected by the then Earl of Eosse. The name it bears was given the new bridge in honour of Baron Oxmantown, the Earl's heir apparent. Mr. Michael Downey, mason, was the builder of this bridge originally, but the arches were lowered by Grand Jury presentment, in 1855. As the appellation Oxmantown is connected with Birr in different ways, it may be well to mention that this word seems to be a corruption for " Osmantown," which name was given to a green formerly on the north side of Dublin, and including some of the northern parts of the City. This green was inhabited by Danes, who were sometimes called Ostmen, or men of the East, from whence it took its name. There were great feats of archery performed there by the notorious robber, Eobin Hood, in 1189, as stated by Hollinshed in his Chronicles. A considerable portion of this place belonged to the first

    104 HISTORY OF EIRE.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 46

22. Sixty magistrates assemble at Birr, largest meeting in King's County

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1822

    On 10 October 1822 the most numerous meeting of magistrates ever seen in King's County assembled at Birr to resolve the dispute over the Quarter Sessions chairmanship, ultimately voting with enthusiastic applause to retain the usual chairman.

    Read the passage

    from " a freeholder of the King's County," addressed to Mr. Parsons, and intended to prove " his legal incapacity to fill the situation of chairman of the King's County Quarter Sessions." The day for deciding the question at length arrived. The October Sessions of 1822 set in, and upon Thursday, the 10th of that month — the first day for disposing of criminal business— there assembled in Birr the most numerous meeting of magistrates that ever was seen in the King's County. It may be interesting, after the lapse of nearly fifty years, to peruse the names of about sixty magistrates who then assembled, and which will be found (No. 12) in the Appendix. The humble parties to the appeal having in the meantime settled their little difference between themselves, it became unnecessary to enter into the matter on their account. Never was better exemplified the truth of the adage, " Scepe scintilla parva magnum incendium excitavit" The business commenced by Colonel L' Estrange, one of the magistrates, adverting to the resolutions of the former Sessions, and to the chairman's published reply, and he called upon the eight Eesolutionists to withdraw their resolutions. Upon this, one of these gentlemen agreed to have the resolutions withdrawn, in order, as he said, to avoid a division amongst the magistrates. It was then moved by Colonel L'Estrange, and seconded by Thomas Ryder Pepper, Esq., that the business should proceed as usual with the usual chairman ; but after some discussion, it was proposed by Colonel Atkinson, and seconded by Mr.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 52

23. The Coghlan's Arms Inn on the Dublin-Galway road

    Cloghan · town · Offaly · 1769

    Cloghan was formerly a place of much greater importance, situated on the high road from Dublin to Galway, with a well-known inn called The Coghlan's Arms established in 1769 and a manorial court held there.

    Read the passage

    castle here was one of those destroyed in 1548, least it should be taken by the English. The ruins of the ancient church, and the holy wells of Kilcamin, are near Cloghan. This church was founded by St. Camin, probably the same that founded the church of Inis-celtre, or Holy Island, in Lough Deargh. The ruins of Killowney Church are likewise near Cloghan, on the road to Ferbane. Cloghan was heretofore, even in comparatively late years, a place of much more importance than it is at present. It was on the high road from Dublin to Galway, and there was a well-known inn there, called " The Coghlan's Arms," which was established in 1769. There was also a manorial court presided over by a seneschal, held in Cloghan.

    The Castle of Clonoony, which deserves more than a mere local interest, is about a mile west from Cloghan, and eight miles north of Birr. This castle is still in pretty good preservation, although probably erected in the reign of Henry VIII., which began in 1509, as it appears to belong to that period. At all events there was a castle here in 1519, for in that year, according to the Four Masters, "A great contest arose in Delvin between the tribe of Fergal Mac Coghlan and the tribe of Donal, in which James Mac Coghlan, prior of Gallen, and heir presumptive of Delvin Eathra, was killed by the diot of a ball from the Castle of Cluan Damhna." This, as Dr. O'Donovan properly remarks, was the correct original name of Clonoony. The name, therefore, shows that

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 139

24. 1621 inquisition fixes the boundary of Ely O'Carroll at Garryhinch/Scully's land

    Drumakeenan · townland · Offaly · 1621

    An inquisition taken at Drumakeenan on 15 December 1621 described the boundary of Ely O'Carroll running to the top of Slieve Bloom, meeting the territory of Upper Ossory directly over the town and land of Garryhinch, called 'Scully's land'.

    Read the passage

    Sliewbleowe, where the limits of the aforesaid country or territory of Ely 0' Carroll, and of the territory or country called Upper Ossory, in the Queen's County, join directly over the town and land of Garida, commonly called ' Scully's land.' ': Hence, it appears that if a person stands withlTToot at each side of the lockspitted boundary, on the summit of Ard-na-Erin, he would have a foot at the same time in the King's and Queen's Counties, in the territory of O'Carroll of Ely, and yet in Upper Ossory, the patrimony of MacGillaphadric, or Fitzpatrick, that once bold chieftain whose messenger delivered to the haughty and powerful King Henry VIII. the following message : —

    11 Sta pedibus Domine Rex. Dominus meus Gilla- Patricius me misit ad te, et jussit dicere, si non vis castigare Petrum rufum ille faciet bellum contra te."

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 72

25. Abbey founded at Kinnitty by St. Finan, 557

    Kinnitty · parish · Offaly · 557

    An abbey was founded at Kinnitty in the year 557 by St. Finan, surnamed Cam, disciple of St. Brendan of Clonfert.

    Read the passage

    An abbey was founded at Kinnitty in the year 557, when St. Finan, surnamed Cam, of the race of Cordudubne, and disciple of St. Brendan of Clonfert, who died in 576, was abbot of " Cinneteach." St. Finan

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 67

26. Armstrong family vault and mural slabs in old Banagher church

    Banagher · town · Offaly · 1680–1700

    The old church at Banagher contains a family vault of the Armstrongs with mural slabs, including one dated October 1680 marking the burial place of Grisell Armstrong, and another 'Armstrong 4 Brothers 1700,' along with the family arms and motto at the vault entrance.

    Read the passage

    There are several mural slabs referring to the Armstrong family, in the part of the old church at Banagher now used as the family vault. One of these bears date October 1680, and according to the inscription, marks the place where "lyeth the body of Grisell Armstrong;" and on another is, "Armstrong 4 Brothers 1700." At the entrance of the vault there is a stone with the family arms and motto, and an inscription stating that this is the resting place of the Armstrongs of Garrycastle and its Bal Iver branch. This old and respectable family, so long and intimately connected with Banagher, is of Scottish Border extraction, but Thomas Armstrong, one of the family, having been taken prisoner at the battle of Worcester, in September 1651, came to Ireland on his release, and settled at Banagher. He was several times sovereign of that town — then considered a very honourable office — and he is said to have been a liberal contributor, about the year 1686, towards the building or alteration of the old bridge of Banagher.

    The reader will excuse a short explanation as to the use of the rather uncommon name Bigo or Bigoe, by the Armstrong family, and by other respectable families about Banagher. It has been seen (p. 41), that the celebrated glass works formerly near Birr,

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 137

27. Battle at Birr, 949

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 949

    A battle was fought at Birr in 949 in which a victory was gained over the Ui Failge, with many slain including Cinaeth Cruach, as recorded by the Four Masters.

    Read the passage

    A battle was fought at Birr in the year 949. The Four Masters have it thus : — " A victory was gained over the Ui Failge, at Birra, where many were slain, together with Cinaeth Cruach." They also record that Cormac, Comorb of St. Brendan of Birr, and son of Congaltach, died in 989.

    The troops of Ely, commanded by their chieftain, 0' Carroll, as appears from good authority, including Dr. Lanigan, fought in 1014, under the celebrated Brian-Borombhe, at the memorable battle of Clontarf, which ended in the total defeat of the Danes. They fought in that division which was commanded by Cian and Donald, two princes of the Eugenian line ; and which was opposed to the second division of the enemy.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 17

28. Birr Freemasons' Lodge established

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1747

    The Birr Freemasons' Lodge was established in 1747 under a warrant from Sir Marmaduke Wyville, Grand Master, naming William Macoun, Thomas Nethercott and James Armstrong as first Master and Wardens.

    Read the passage

    The Birr Freemasons' Lodge was also established in the year 1747. The warrant is from Sir Marmaduke Wyville, Baronet, Grand Master, and John Putland, Deputy Grand Master, to William Macoun, Thomas Nethercott, and James Armstrong, the first Master and Wardens. The warrant is No. 163, and bears date the 15th July A.D. 1747, and year of Masonry, 5747. There was another warrant issued in 1847—

    90 HISTORY OF BIRR.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 41

29. Birr Market House Used for Assizes and Executions

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly

    A market house erected in the market square of Birr was used at times for holding the County Assizes, where many people were sentenced to death by court-martial or otherwise. It was also used as a military position by contending parties during struggles for possession of the castle and town.

    Read the passage

    The tolls payable in Birr in 1626 were as follows: a horse, threepence ; a cow, threepence, twopence of which went to the book-keeper ; a pig, one penny ; a sheep, one halfpenny, and if ten sold to pay oiie penny, and if twenty, twopence ; woollen cloth, every piece of, containing twenty yards, one penny; and if les$ than twenty yards, one halfpenny; bag of brogues, one penny; every hide above three years old, one penny ; ditto under, one halfpenny; every seven pounds of butter, one farthing. In after years there was a market house erected in the market square of Birr, which was used at times for holding the County Assizes in, and many people were there sentenced to death, by court-martial or otherwise. This market house was also at times used as a military position, by either party, during the contentions which took place for the possession of the castle and town of Birr. The following entry in respect to this market house appears in the handwriting of a later Sir Laurence Parsons in the old Eental before referred to : — "~Mem. Darby Mulrean hath taken from me ye markett place of Birr whear he is to bild as good a house as is bilt in Eoscrea, and to alowe a roome for ye corne and measures to him yt takes ye markett customs, and his leace of seven years is expired and he is to shingle the hole house within twelve years of his terme ye Leace is to commence ye first of May next for t \. outy one years at three pounds rent per annum.

    I)

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 30

30. Birr's Trade Tokens Struck by Local Merchants

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1660–1679

    Birr was a place of considerable trade about 1660, as evidenced by several tradesmen's brass tokens struck there, including coins bearing the names of Marcus Archer, Richard Archer, Robert Jeffes, Thomas Langton and Michael Cantwell, all merchants of Birr.

    Read the passage

    There are known to have been at least seven varieties of coin, such as alluded to by Mr. Simon, struck in Birr. Five of these are mentioned in the Catalogue of the Tradesmen's Tokens current in Ireland between the years 1637 and 1679, by Doctor Smith; and the writer of this account of Birr has met two other varieties of Birr tokens not mentioned in Doctor Smith's Catalogue. One of the Birr coins is impressed with three arrow-heads or pheons^ the armorial ensigns of the Archer family, with the name " Marcus Archer of Birr, Marchant." Another Birr coin is inscribed on one side, " R.A., 1667," around which is " Richard Archer," and on the reverse are the same arms as on the first-mentioned coin, surrounded by, " of Birr, Marchant." This coin clearly proves that the Archer family used for arms the pheons upwards of twenty years before they had a regular grant of them; for it was only in 1688 that the three pheons were for the first time charged upon the arms of that family by the herald, Dugdale. A third Birr coin has on it, "By Robert Jeffes of Birr, to pass for I.D.," and on the reverse, " In necessary change with labourers and others." A fourth has, " Thomas Langton," which is continued round the reverse in the words, " Birr, Marchant ; " and in the middle of the reverse is a thistle. There are two other varieties of Birr coin with the name of Thomas Langton, but each somewhat different from the one mentioned, and from each other. The seventh variety of Birr coin known is inscribed, " Michael Cantwell,"

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 35

31. Bloody Battles of Tola and Forthela near Birr

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 551–571

    In 551 (or 571 per the Four Masters), the people of Birr and Ely, allied with the Ossorians, were defeated by Fiachach son of Baodham in the battles of Tola and Forthela, fought at plains near Birr.

    Read the passage

    In the year 551, according to Comerford's Ireland, the people of Birr, with the other inhabitants of Ely, and the Ossorians, were defeated by Fiachach, the son of Baodham, in the bloody battles of Eolla and Forthela, which places are in the neighbourhood of Birr. The Annals of Clonmacnoise refer this to the year

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 15

32. Burning of tenant houses at Ballinree and Little Seffin in 1690

    Ballinree · townland · Offaly · 1690

    The houses of John Sweetman and his tenants at Ballinree, and of Christopher Hewitt and tenants at Little Seffin, were burned during the war, with an orchard also cut down.

    Read the passage

    town and one in the country, with a dairy, cow-house, stable, and other buildings, burned ; and an orchard cut down. The houses of Thomas Horton, Anthony Beg, John Molony, Teige Horan, William Page, and several undertenants ; as also those of Donogh Lowry and Michael Cantwell, burned. Two houses of Captain William Parsons (brother to Sir Laurence), burned ; and a tan-yard and an orchard destroyed. The house of Richard Archer, and at least six houses in Mill Lane, with Eobert Usher's house, burned. The houses of Sharpcott Nicholson, Marcus Archer, and Philip Moore, ruined ; and those of James Langton, Daniel Dunn, John Cavanagh, Teige Carroll, Eichard Hopkins, William Dunn, and Teige Corcoran, burned. Hugh Ball's house demolished; and the houses of Loughlan Murry, Margaret Barnwell, Eliza Hopkins, John Parry, Edmond Carroll, Thomas Lovel, Edmond Lowry, Daniel Eeardon, Charles Carroll, and James Grady ; with John Walplate's house and malt-house, and John Weelder or Laurence Beteridge's stable and several tenements, all burned. Several houses in Crincle, burned. The houses of John Sweetman and tenants at Ballinree, and of Christopher Hewitt and tenants, at Little Seffin, burned, and an orchard cut ; and the houses of Eichard Archer's tenants at Ballindara, likewise burned. The houses of Owen Hines and his tenants, and Darby Moore and his tenants, at Great Clonaghill, Great Seffin, and Derrinduff; and the houses of Thomas Burfields and tenants, at Great Clonaghill, including the castle, all burned ; as were

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 163

33. Captives from Fortfalkland stopped and returned to Athlone castle

    Banagher · town · Offaly · 1643

    After the capitulation, Colonel Bourke stopped the guarded convoy conveying Lord Castlesteward's people to Galway, permitting only the Lord and a few servants to pass, and the rest were returned and delivered at the castle of Athlone.

    Read the passage

    many of them were not serviceable ; and they were all much discouraged, by a long and vain expectation of succour from the Ministry, which had entirely neglected them. It would have been impossible, indeed, that they should have so long subsisted as they had done, had it not been for the relief which was sent them, from time to time, by Lord Clanricarde. But as he was himself then surrounded with too many difficulties to afford them a prospect of any succour, and as Preston had granted an honourable capitulation to the garrison at Birr, the besieged were inclined to surrender to him, for fear of falling into worse hands. Therefore the next day after he came up to Fortfalkland, before any battery was raised, Lord Castlesteward the Governor capitulated ; and was to be conveyed safe with all his people to the fort of Galway." And again as to this occurrence, Dr. Warner continues : — " I have said that Lord Castlesteward had capitulated to be conveyed with all his people to the fort of Galway ; and Preston accordingly sent two companies with them as a guard. But they were stopped by Colonel Bourke, the Catholic Lieutenant General for Connaught, who would not permit them to pass according to the capitulation ; granting leave only to his Lordship, and two or three servants ; and the convoys with their charge, were obliged to return back, and then to deliver them at the castle of Athlone." This siege and surrender of Fortfalkland are also mentioned in Playfair's Irish Peerage, under the title " Castlesteward."

    320 THE TOWN OF BANAGHER.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 135

34. Castle of Banagher rebuilt by O'Carroll amid contention in 1544

    Banagher · town · Offaly · 1544

    In 1544, the castle of Banagher was rebuilt by O'Carroll (Teigh Caoch) despite opposition from the Clan Colman and the O'Maddens, who were then in contention with each other.

    Read the passage

    The Four Masters relate that in the year 1539, " after Mass on a Sunday, on the second of the Nones of July,"FelimMacCoghlan,thesonof Myler, was slain at Banagher, here called " Beandchor," by the sons of Malachy Godh O'Madden. They also mention at the year 1544, that "the castle of Banagher was rebuilt by 0' Carroll, i.e., Teigh Caoch, in spite of the opposition of the Clan Colman and the O'Maddens, who were then in contention with each other." The same writers add here, that "in a week after the commencement of the rebuilding of Banagher,"

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 133

35. Castle of Eglish Recorded by the Four Masters

    Eglish · townland · Offaly · 1532

    A castle stood at Eglish, called Caislean-na-Hegailse by the Four Masters at the year 1532, in the ancient territory of Fearcall. Eglish was also noted for its abbey among the celebrated religious establishments of the district.

    Read the passage

    Besides Drumcullen (p. 154), and Killyon (p. 178), which, as already stated, were in Fearcall, there were several other celebrated abbeys and monasteries in that ancient district, including Eglish, and Eathlibthen, now called Ealyon. There was also a castle at Eglish, which is called Caislean-na-Hegailse by the Four Masters, at the year 1532 (p. 25). Ealyon Abbey is said to have been founded by St. Illand about the year 540, and, according to Mr. Archdall, a statue of the Saint was to be seen there in his time.

    The chief burial place of the O'Molloys, however, appears to have been at Kilcormuck, now the town called Frankford, nearly in the centre of ancient Fearcall, and about nine miles from Birr. Kilcormuck was probably a corruption of Kilcormack, that is, Cormack's church. It is also spelled in old documents, " Killkarmick " and " Killharmick." The modern name Frankford is derived, as well from the town having been founded by Francis Magawley, as hereafter mentioned, as from its vicinity to the ford here over the " Silver river." The remains of the ancient monastery of Kilcormuck, stood about the spot now occupied by the very fine Eoman Catholic Church erected at Frankford in late years. It is said the ruins

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 99

36. Dangan, chief fortress of the O'Conors Failge

    Philipstown · townland · Kildare

    The chief fortress of the O'Conors Failge was at Dangan, or Dingen, now Philipstown; they preserved a large portion of their possessions there for centuries up to the time of Philip and Mary.

    Read the passage

    Cruachan was the old name of Croghan, a very handsome hill within a few miles of Philipstown, in the King's County. The 0' Conors Failge were very powerful and warlike chiefs, and carried on various contests for nearly 300 years with the English, whom they often defeated. The chief fortress of the 0' Conors was at Dangan, or Dingen, now Philipstown, and they appear to have preserved a large portion of their possessions up to the time of Philip and

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 108

37. Foundation stone of St. Brendan's Chapel laid in Birr, 1817

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1817–1824

    The foundation stone of the Roman Catholic Church of Birr, named St. Brendan's Chapel, was laid on 1 August 1817 by Lord Oxmantown in the presence of his father the Earl of Rosse and Rev. Philip Meagher, P.P., with coins and a brass plate deposited within.

    Read the passage

    The foundation stone of the present very fine Roman Catholic Church of Birr, was laid on the 1st of August 1817. There were then several coins deposited in this foundation stone, as also a brass plate, with the following inscription : " On Friday the 1st of August 1817, the first stone of this chapel, named St. Brendan's Chapel, and dedicated to the worship of Almighty God, was laid by William, Lord Oxmantown, in presence of his father, the Right Hon. Laurence, Earl of Rosse, the Rev. Philip Meagher, P.P., the Committee appointed to superintend the building of it, and a large concourse of parishioners, who assembled on the occasion." The building of the Birr Roman Catholic Church was finished on the 1st of August 1824, just seven years after it was commenced, but in some years after it was considerably altered and remodeled, while the Very Rev. John Spain, V.G., was Parish Priest. To this very rev. gentleman, the parish is also indebted for the beautiful stained glass window behind the altar in this church, as also for the erection of the very elegant convent adjoining, and the great advantage to the town and neighbourhood, from the presence of the good and religious ladies who inhabit it.

    The Very Rev. Mr. Spain died on the 10th of May 1848, and was buried on the east side of the altar in the church which he so much improved. Above

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 46

38. Founding of St. John's Hospital at Tyone, Nenagh

    Tyone · street · Tipperary · 1200

    About 1200, an hospital was founded at Nenagh for Augustinian Canons, dedicated to St. John the Baptist and called Teacheon (Tyone), to admit the sick and infirm, endowed by Theobald Walter with lands in several townlands.

    Read the passage

    It has been stated that an hospital and a priory were founded at Nenagh about the time the castle was built there. As to these, we learn from Mr. Archdall and the authorities he refers to, and from other writers, as follows. About the beginning of the year 1200 an hospital was founded at Nenagh for Augustinian Canons, who were constantly to admit the sick and infirm. It was dedicated to St. John the Baptist, and was usually called Teacheon (Tyone), or St. John's House. Theobald Walter, the first Butler of Ireland, endowed this hospital of which he was the founder, with lands in Keremath and Louthunlauth, and in the

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    Along here at Tyone, a hospital was founded about 1200 for Augustinian Canons, dedicated to St. John the Baptist. It was usually called Teacheon, or St. John's House, and its purpose was to admit the sick and infirm. Theobald Walter, the first Butler of Ireland, was the founder and endowed it with lands in Keremath and Louthunlauth.

39. Founding of Tyone Priory and Hospital near Nenagh

    Tyone · street · Tipperary · 1200

    About the same time as building Nenagh Castle, Theobald Fitz Walter founded a hospital and priory at Tyone, near Nenagh, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the ruins of which are still visible.

    Read the passage

    On thus getting possession of Ormond, Fitz"Walter .^appears to have fixed his residence where Nenagh now stands, almost in the centre of it, and he there built the castle, the extent and grandeur of which may be judged of by the ruins which yet remain. About the same time he founded at Tyone, near Nenagh, an hospital and priory, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the ruins of which are likewise still to be seen ; and, in course of time, a town grew up around the castle, and near the priory. It appears, however, from Carte's Ormond, that Theobald Fitz Walter was interred in the Abbey of Owney, which had also been founded by him. It may be more convenient to conclude a few observations as to Nenagh Castle, before referring to the hospital of St. John.

    It appears from the Pipe Rolls in the Record Tower, Dublin Castle, that a considerable sum was charged about the year 1287, by "Walter de la Haye, Escheator of Ireland, for repairs done by him about the Castle of Nanath or Nanach (Nenagh), while in the king's hands, during the minority of Theobald, heir of Theobald le Boteller. There are charges here made for repairing and roofing towers and houses, rebuilding

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 127

    As the companion tells it

    Along here at Tyone, about 1200, Theobald Fitz Walter founded a hospital and priory dedicated to St John the Baptist, around the same time as he built Nenagh Castle. He had taken possession of Ormond and fixed his residence where Nenagh now stands, and a town grew up around the castle and near the priory. The ruins of the hospital are still to be seen. Fitz Walter himself was buried in the Abbey of Owney, which he had also founded. The site at Tyone was part of a wider building effort, and the castle ruins give some sense of the scale of what he undertook here.

40. Gallen Monastery repeatedly destroyed 949-1531

    Gallen · townland · Offaly · 949–1531

    Gallen monastery was spoiled and nearly demolished in 949, again destroyed in 1003, met the same fate in 1519, and was again visited by spoilers in 1531.

    Read the passage

    place acquired its name, gall being Irish for an Englishman, or stranger. According to Mr. Archdall and the authorities he refers to, this monastery was " spoiled and nearly demolished," in the year 949, and it was " again destroyed" in 1003. In 1519 it met the same fate, while the spoilers visited it again

    THE MONASTERY OF GALLKtf. .'Ul

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 143

41. Kilcolgan baronial residence of the Mac Coghlans

    Kilcolgan · townland · Galway · 580

    At Kilcolgan are the ruins of the fine baronial residence of the head of the Mac Coghlans, apparently erected about the 17th century, on the site of an abbey founded by Saint Colgan in 580.

    Read the passage

    At Kilcolgan, also in this neighbourhood, are the ruins of the fine baronial residence of the head of the Mac Coghlans, in somewhat later and more civilized times, than when their numerous fortified castles were inhabited. This building appears to have been erected about the 17th century. The name Kilcolgan, that is, Colgan's Church, originated, according to Mr. Archdall, from Saint Colgan having founded in the year 580, an abbey here, " in the country of Dealbhna M'Cochlain."

    The abbey of Gleane or Glin, was on the river Brusna, not far from the monastery of Gallen, at the place still known as Glinn or Glynn. Mr. Archdall

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 143

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Kilcolgan, somewhere around here, are the ruins of a fine baronial residence that belonged to the head of the Mac Coghlans, built around the 17th century. The name Kilcolgan means Colgan's Church, and according to Mr. Archdall, Saint Colgan founded an abbey here in 580, "in the country of Dealbhna M'Cochlain." The baronial house went up on the site of that much older abbey.

42. Malachy O'Madden killed by rival within a week of Banagher rebuilding

    Banagher · town · Offaly · 1544

    The Four Masters record that within a week of the rebuilding of Banagher castle in 1544, Malachy O'Madden, one of the two lords governing Siol Anmcha, was killed by Malachy Godh O'Madden.

    Read the passage

    Malachy 0' Madden, "one of the two lords who governed Siol Anmcha," was killed by Malachy Godh O'Madden. It has been already mentioned that Lusmagh, which will be more fully referred to, was a portion of Siol Anmcha.

    It does not clearly appear whether the castle called Garrdha-an*caslein and Caislen-an-Fothair, and more recently Garry castle, is the place also referred to at the year 1544, as the " castle of Banagher." However this be, the Four Masters again tell us at the year 1548, that the castle of Banagher here called ^Binncor;" the castle of Moystown, "Magh-Istean; " and " Clochanna-gceapach," were demolished, least they should be taken by the English. This last mentioned place appears to be Cloghan in Delvin, and not Cloghan Castle in Lusmagh — distinguished by the name Cloghan O'Madden.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 134

43. Noble Luke Usher settled at Gurteen, County Tipperary

    Gurteen · street · Tipperary · 1798

    An ancestor of Luke Usher of 1704, named Noble Luke Usher, was settled at Gurteen in County Tipperary around 1798. As a Justice of the Peace during troubled times, he became known as "the poor man's friend."

    Read the passage

    be traced for such a length of time to a few years back, as that of Usher. The name of this very respectable old family was originally Neville, but we learn that one of the family having been usher to King John, the name was changed to that of the office, as was then frequently done. Some of the family, from whom was descended the celebrated Archbishop Usher, came with King John to Ireland, and we find a Robert Usher settled in Birr in 1690, and that his house was burned there during the troubles of that period. An ancestor of Luke Usher, of 1704, named Noble Luke Usher, was settled at Gurteen, in the County of Tipperary, not far from Birr, about the year 1798. He was married to a lady of the very respectable family of Lalor, of the County Tipperary, and having been a Justice of the Peace in these troubled times, he so conducted himself as to be named, and still remembered as "the poor man's friend." The younger brother of this gentleman was father of the late Noble Luke Usher, of Birr, who is yet remembered, and his name respected, by many of the inhabitants. He was chairman of a public meeting of Roman Catholics at Birr, held on the 24th of February 1833, to petition against the threatened introduction of martial law into Ireland. Joseph F. Usher, M.D., now of Ballarat City, Australia, is son of the late Noble Luke Usher, of Birr, and there are few who know the family and its connexion with Birr, but wish him success in his honourable profession, so far from his native town. In the commencement of 1820, the extraordinary

    108 HISTORY OF BIKE.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 49

44. O'Carrolls, Princes of Ely, Lords of Birr's Plain

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly

    O'Heerin's poem describes the O'Carrolls as princes of Ely ruling as far as Slieve Bloom, hospitable lords over eight districts, based at the plain of Birr. Their war-cry was Showeth-aboe.

    Read the passage

    " Lords to whom great men submit, Are the 0' Can-oils of the plain of Birr ; Princes of Eile as far as tall Slieve Bloom, The most hospitable land in Erin. Eight districts and eight chiefs are ruled By the prince of Ely of the land of herds ; Valiant in enforcing their tributes, Are the troops of the yellow-ringletted hair."

    The war-cry of O'Carroll of Ely was Showethaboe, and the arms of Sir Daniel O'Carroll, one of the

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 12

45. Plague kills several abbots at Clonmacnoise in 663

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 663–665

    Several abbots along with a great part of the clergy at Clonmacnoise died of the plague during 663 and the two following years.

    Read the passage

    663. Several abbots, with a great part of the clergy at Clonmacnoise, died of the plague during this and the two following years.

    719. Clonmacnoise suffered much from fire this year, as also in March 751, and again in the years 773 and 811.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 148

46. Protestant Church of Birr built in 1815 with old 1636 communion cup

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1815

    The Protestant Church of Birr, costing £8,000, was built in 1815 and contains a cenotaph to Laurence, Earl of Rosse, and an old 1636 communion cup inscribed to the Parish Church of Parsonstowne.

    Read the passage

    The Protestant Church, now so great an ornament to Birr, was built in the year 1815. This very fine and handsome edifice, is said to have originally cost £8,000, and there have been several improvements made in and about it since. The Protestant Church of Birr has for many years been remarkable lor the numerous and respectable congregation attending there. In it are several nice cenotaphs, amongst which is conspicuous, one commemorating Laurence, Earl of Eosse, who died in 1841. One of the Communion cups is old and very interesting, and bears the following inscription : " The Communion cup of the Parishe Churche of Parsonstowne, in the King's Countie, Anno Domini, 1636." The paten or cover

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 45

47. Ruins of Kilcamin church and holy wells near Cloghan

    Kilcamin · townland · Offaly

    The ruins of the ancient church and holy wells of Kilcamin are near Cloghan, founded by St. Camin, thought to be the same saint who founded the church on Holy Island in Lough Derg.

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    castle here was one of those destroyed in 1548, least it should be taken by the English. The ruins of the ancient church, and the holy wells of Kilcamin, are near Cloghan. This church was founded by St. Camin, probably the same that founded the church of Inis-celtre, or Holy Island, in Lough Deargh. The ruins of Killowney Church are likewise near Cloghan, on the road to Ferbane. Cloghan was heretofore, even in comparatively late years, a place of much more importance than it is at present. It was on the high road from Dublin to Galway, and there was a well-known inn there, called " The Coghlan's Arms," which was established in 1769. There was also a manorial court presided over by a seneschal, held in Cloghan.

    The Castle of Clonoony, which deserves more than a mere local interest, is about a mile west from Cloghan, and eight miles north of Birr. This castle is still in pretty good preservation, although probably erected in the reign of Henry VIII., which began in 1509, as it appears to belong to that period. At all events there was a castle here in 1519, for in that year, according to the Four Masters, "A great contest arose in Delvin between the tribe of Fergal Mac Coghlan and the tribe of Donal, in which James Mac Coghlan, prior of Gallen, and heir presumptive of Delvin Eathra, was killed by the diot of a ball from the Castle of Cluan Damhna." This, as Dr. O'Donovan properly remarks, was the correct original name of Clonoony. The name, therefore, shows that

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 139

48. Shrine of the Saint destroyed at Tirdaglass in 1140

    Terryglass · townland · Tipperary · 1140–1162

    In 1140, Tirdaglass was burnt by the people of Hy Mainy who, with their accustomed barbarity, destroyed the shrine of the Saint there; the abbey was consumed again in 1162.

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    pilgrimage at Borne. In 1014, died Donnghal O'Cantene, " overseer of this monastery " ; in 1112 this abbey was destroyed by fire j Tirdaglass was burnt by the people of Hy Mainy in 1140, " who with their accustomed .barbarity, destroyed the shrine of the Saint " ; and in 1162 the abbey was again consumed.

    I It has been mentioned (p. 215), that St. Patrick came from Tirdaglass by Lorha, to Brusna near Birr.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 122

49. Skeletons and Elizabethan coins found at Clonoony

    Clonoony · townland · Monaghan

    Many skeletons, along with coins of Queen Elizabeth and old swords, have been found at Clonoony, suggesting well-fought battles occurred there during her reign.

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    Many skeletons, with coin of Queen Elizabeth near them, and also several old swords have been found at Clonoony, from which it seems probable some wellfought actions took place there during that Queen's

    332 TOMB OF THE BULLYNS.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 140

50. Slaying of Hugh, son of Murrogh O'Kennedy, at Ballyquirk

    Ballyquirk · townland · Tipperary

    A member of the Ormond nobility was slain by Hugh, son of Murrogh O'Kennedy, near Baile-ui-Chaire, now known as Ballyquirk, about two miles from Lorha abbey.

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    Ormond, was slain by Hugh, the son of Murrogh O'Kennedy of Baile-ui-Chaire." This latter place is now called Ballyquirk, and is about two miles from the celebrated abbey of Lorha in Lower Ormond.

    Leaving Knocksheegowna and the fairies, we return to the neighbourhood of Ballyloughnane. Not far from the village, on a rising ground amidst elegant plantations, and with a fine prospect taking in Knocksheegowna and the Little Brusna river, stands Baronne Court, the beautiful residence of Mrs. Marshall, relict of the late Eev. Joseph Marshall, J.P., who had considerable property in the vicinity. The charming view of this elegant mansion, must now also cause in those who remember the late owner, a feeling of regret for the loss of the honest Justice, the kind, indulgent landlord, and sincere friend, such as Ireland can badly afford to lose. The writer of these pages had frequent opportunities for observing the honesty of purpose, and the intelligence, invariably shown by the late Eev. Mr. Marshall on the magisterial bench ; and he had learned, from long experience, how great was the confidence of litigants on either side, that they would meet with nothing but fair play from the Rev. Justice. The respect shown by the tenantry for his memory, and for his widow and young family since his death, is the best testimony to the character of the late reverend gentleman as a landlord. He died in 1865, and rests in the ancient burial ground at Loughkeen, not far from Baronne Court. Here his widow erected

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 117

51. St. Barrindeus, abbot of Drumcullen, 590

    Drumcullen · parish · Offaly · 590

    According to Usher, St. Barrindeus was abbot of Druimcuillinn in the year 590, and a hill there is still called Cnoc-barrind, Knockbarron, after him.

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    Drumcullen. It has been observed (p. 1) that Druimcuillinn and the river Avon-chara, or terrible river— =• the Comcor or Birr river — flowing by it, were mentioned in early times as forming part of the boundary of ancient Meath. Thus, although so close to Kinnitty, Druimcuillinn was in Fearcall, in ancient Meath, while Kinnitty was in Ely, in East Munster, the river, which was the boundary, runing between them. Yet it seems more convenient to refer to Drumcullen here in connexion with Kinnitty. Some persons allege that the name Drumcullen is derived from Druim, a hill, and cuillion^ a holly, for which tree the place appears to have been noted ; but it comes, more probably, from the Irish name of the Cullen sept, formerly subordinate chiefs of this neighbourhood. St. Barrindeus, or Barrind, was, according to Usher, abbot of Druimcuillinn in the year 590, and even yet there is a hill there called Cnoc-barrind, Knockbarron, that is, the hill of Barrind. It appears that about the same year St. Barrind was also bishop of Kill-barrind, Kilbarron, meaning, the Church of Barrind, near Eosruabh, on the bay of Donegal, barony of Tyrehugh, and County Donegal ; and which church had been previously founded by St. Colman. St. Barrind must, therefore, have been a person of importance to be thus, at the same time, head of two religious houses in different parts of the country, and so far distant from each other as were the ancient Druim-cuillinn and Killbarrind ; and to have given his name to a church in the one place, and to a hill in the other ; and which,

    156 SLIEBH BLOOM MOUNTAINS.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 70

52. St. Cuimin's bell found in a well at Kilcommon

    Kilcommon · townland · Tipperary

    An ancient bell said to have been St. Cuimin's was preserved in the parish up to thirty or forty years before the writing, with a tradition that it had been found in a well close to the ruins of Kilcommon church.

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    There are three very remarkable elm trees called " Cuimin's trees," still growing around and close to this rock. It is said they were planted many years ago by the owner of the property, in place of three yew trees of unknown age, but straight as an arrow, which had previously grown in the same spot, and were supposed to have been planted by the Saint himself. These last mentioned trees, however, were, as was also said, unfortunately cut down, as the result of a wager between the owner of the place and a neighbouring gentleman. An ancient bell, said to have been the bell of St. Cuimin, was preserved in the parish up to thirty or forty years ago. There was a tradition to the effect that it had been found in a well close to the ruins of Kilcommon church.

    On the outside of Kilcommon church-yard, there stood heretofore the dwelling-house in which the celebrated Father Brooks lived. He was Parish Priest here in the troubled times of 1798, and his chapel stood hard by. But the house of God and its Priest both fell under the displeasure of those in power at that time. The chapel was set on fire and consumed, and Father Brooks was deemed unfit to abide longer in Leinster, and it was well for himself he was suffered to live longer anywhere. Ho was sentenced to be transported into Connaught, and that sentence was forthwith executed by putting him over the ferry

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 92

53. St. Diermit founds abbey at Glinnhufann

    Glinn · townland · Kilkenny · 563

    Saint Diermit built an abbey at Glinnhufann (Glinn), with his festival observed on 8th July. St. Comgan succeeded him in 563 and died at an old age.

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    tells us, that " Saint Dierinit "built au abbey here, which then had the name of Glinnhufann, where his festival is observed on the 8th of July ; " and that in 563, "St. Comgan, whose mother's name was Ethnea, succeeded St. Diermit, and died in a respectable old age on the 27th of February this year." St. Murgenius, the abbot, died on the 27th of January, but the year is uncertain ; Moelmoedoc, a learned scribe of "Gleannusen," died in 915; and in 1016, Coemcomrac, a professor in this abbey, died. In 1041, the abbey was " plundered ; " in 1077, it was " destroyed by fire ; " and in 1082, died Conchouran, a professor in this abbey.

    Killegally is near Glinn, and as to it we learn from Mr. Archdall that St. Trena, Trcnan or Trien, about the end of the fifth, or beginning of the sixth century, was abbot of Killelga or Kilalga in the territory and diocese of Meath. The ruins of several other abbeys and castles, of less importance, are yet to be seen in this neighbourhood.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 144

54. St. Patrick's disciple Daluan founds monastery at Brusna

    Brosna · townland · Offaly · 450

    St. Patrick founded Croebheach near the river Brusna and placed his disciple St. Daluan there; St. Trian was later bishop and abbot who entertained St. Patrick on his way from Terryglass and Lorha to Hyfaile around the year 450.

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    The village called Brusna is not far from Shinrone, and is about six miles from Birr. Brusna is a very ancient place, and in Colgan's Ada Sanctorum, is denominated Craibheach, which means a bundle of dry sticks or brushwood, still known as "a brusna," in parts of the country. The Tripartite has it, u locaqua Brosnachea appellatur '." The river called Little Brusna seems to derive its name from passing by this place. We learn from Mr. Archdall, and the authorities he refers to, that " Croebheach," near the river " Brusnach," was founded by St. Patrick, who placed there his disciple, St. Daluan. Archdall mistakes, however, in placing Croebheach in the County Kerry,

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 92

55. The Black Castle of the O'Carrolls at Birr

    Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1620–1621

    The ancient castle of the O'Carrolls at Birr, called the Black Castle, stood about sixty yards northwest of the present castle on an artificial mound of earth, and contained the dungeon of the fortification before being demolished. Sir Laurence Parsons repaired its walls and added a tower in 1620-21, with remains forming the hall and centre of the present building.

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    The ancient castle of the O'Carrolls at Birr was

    44 HISTORY OF BIER.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 27

56. Tisaran churches and houses burned in Lent 1541

    Tisaran · parish · Offaly · 1541

    In 1541 both houses and churches of Tisaran were burned and plundered exactly in Lent by the sons of O'Madden, as part of ongoing regional conflict.

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    Tisaran, in the neighbourhood with Clonoony, Moystown, Liscloony, and Fadden, is also mentioned in these annals. Thus it appears that in the year 1541, "Tessauran, both houses and churches was burned and plundered exactly in Lent, by the sons of O'Madden, namely Murrough, Breasal, and Cathal." As an instance of the retaliative system of these days,

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 141

57. 1671 grant of Island MacCoghlan and Banagher ferry rights

    Banagher · town · Offaly · 1671

    By Letters Patent in about 1671, John Blysse was granted the island called Eniskery alias Island MacCoghlan, the two ruinous castles of Banagher and Belanaley, and a ferry over the Shannon between Banagher and Meelick.

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    By Letters Patent, dated 20th of July in the 21st year of the reign of Charles II., (about 1671), there were granted to John Blysse, Esq., his heirs and assigns for ever, " All the island called Eniskery alias Island MacCoghlan, in the barony of Grarrycastle and King's County, and also the two ruinous castles of Banagher and Belanaley," with portions of several denominations of land ; and also " liberty of fishing in the river Shannon in the aforesaid barony and county." There was then also granted, "a Ferry over the river Shannon to pass from the town of Banagher in the King's County, to the town and lands of Meelick in the County Galway, and, within a quarter of a mile of each side of the said river, to receive and transport whatsoever men and other things are there to be transported, for such and the like fees and rewards, as heretofore were received ; to keep on said Ferry one or more boats within the limits aforesaid, and also the whole and entire Shannon aforesaid, from the town of Banagher to the said town of Meelick, and within the said space of a quarter of a mile on each side of the river." At the annual rent for the lands of 40s. sterling, and "for the aforesaid ferry over the Shannon," of 5s. sterling.

    It thus appears that this ferry was in use at Banagher about the year 1671, and, as there is no doubt from what follows, but there was a bridge there in 1690, by which Sarsfield frequently passed during the war, it seems the ferry was discontinued and the old bridge was erected at Banagher, at some period

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 135

58. Abbey of Glinn plundered and destroyed by fire

    Glinn · townland · Kilkenny · 1041–1082

    The abbey at Glinn was plundered in 1041 and destroyed by fire in 1077. Various scribes and professors associated with the abbey are recorded, including deaths in 915, 1016 and 1082.

    Read the passage

    tells us, that " Saint Dierinit "built au abbey here, which then had the name of Glinnhufann, where his festival is observed on the 8th of July ; " and that in 563, "St. Comgan, whose mother's name was Ethnea, succeeded St. Diermit, and died in a respectable old age on the 27th of February this year." St. Murgenius, the abbot, died on the 27th of January, but the year is uncertain ; Moelmoedoc, a learned scribe of "Gleannusen," died in 915; and in 1016, Coemcomrac, a professor in this abbey, died. In 1041, the abbey was " plundered ; " in 1077, it was " destroyed by fire ; " and in 1082, died Conchouran, a professor in this abbey.

    Killegally is near Glinn, and as to it we learn from Mr. Archdall that St. Trena, Trcnan or Trien, about the end of the fifth, or beginning of the sixth century, was abbot of Killelga or Kilalga in the territory and diocese of Meath. The ruins of several other abbeys and castles, of less importance, are yet to be seen in this neighbourhood.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 144

59. Abbot Elathmac's pagan-emblem tombstone

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 891

    The abbot Elathmac died in 891 and his tombstone, still present at Clonmacnoise, is noted as curious for bearing emblems borrowed from the pagans.

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    891. The abbot Elathmac died. His tombstone is at Clonmacnoise yet, and is curious in having on it, emblems borrowed from the pagans.

    362 CLONMACtfOISE.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 149

60. Banagher named for pointed hill, once Beandcor

    Banagher · town · Offaly · 1623

    The town of Banagher sits on a long hill sloping to the river Shannon; its old name Beandcor derives from Beannchor, meaning a pointed hill, and it was later known as Fortfalkland and as 'Bannogh' on Mercator's Atlas of 1623.

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    The well-known town of Banagher which, according to the adage, could " bang " even his sable majesty heretofore, is placed on the side of a long hill sloping down to the river Shannon which flows by the town. Banagher is about six miles north-west from Birr, in the parish of Eeynach or Eeynagh, and barony of Garry castle. The old name of the town was Beandcor, which seems to have originated from the hill on which it stands, Beannchor meaning a pointed hill. There are other derivations also given for the name Banagher. It is called " Bannogh " on Mer cater* s Atlas, published in 1623, and was likewise known, more lately, as Fortfalkland. The parish derived its name from Saint Eeynach, Eegnacia, or Eignacia, sister of Saint Finian, who presided at Clonard and died in 563, having founded here a religious establishment, of which she was abbess. The ruins now on the site of this ancient house, which was called Kill-Eignaighe, " the church

    316 THE TOWN OF BANAGHER.

    Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 133