Read the copy these stories were drawn from on the Internet Archive.
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Confederate Forces Muster at Roscrea for Relief of Birr
Roscrea · town · Tipperary · 1650
Colonel Axtell, Governor at Kilkenny, joined the Wexford and Tipperary forces at Roscrea before resolutely marching to relieve the siege of Birr from Clanrikarde's forces.
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laid siege to Birr, to the relief of which Colonel Axtell, Governor at Kilkenny, having joined the Wexford and Tippcrary forces at Roscrea, resolutely marched. Upon this the Marquis of Clanrikarde's .J,r troops retreated to the adjacent Island of Meelick, from whence they were beaten upon the 25th of October, with the loss of one thousand five hundred foot, and two hundred horse, besides waggons and baggage. In his History of the Civil Wars of Ireland, Taylor has the following short account of this occurrence : — "The Marquis of Clanrikarde made an attempt to relieve Birr, but was defeated with great loss, and this action terminated the campaign."
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 34
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Cruachan, the green mound of the Lord of Offaley
near Croghan · parish · Offaly
Cruachan was the old name of Croghan, a very handsome hill near Philipstown in the King's County, associated in bardic verse with O'Conor, Lord of Offaley, as the mainstay of the fair plain.
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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
As the companion tells it
Cruachan was the old name for the country around Croghan, a very handsome hill near Philipstown in the King's County. Bardic verse linked this place to O'Conor, Lord of Offaley, the mainstay of the fair plain. The O'Conors Failge were powerful and warlike chiefs, who carried on various contests for nearly 300 years with the English, whom they often defeated. Their chief fortress was at Dangan, now Philipstown, and they kept a large portion of their possessions up to the time of Philip.
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Demolition of the castle of Eacra near Shannon Bridge
Shannon Bridge · electoral division · Offaly · 1557
In 1557 the castle of Eacra (also called Roughra), near the present Shannon Bridge, was demolished by O'Melaghlin and the English of Athlone.
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The castle of Fadden must have been again taken from Mac Coghlan after this, for we find that in the year 1557, " The castle of Fadden in Delvin Eathra, was taken by a prisoner who was confined in it, and he delivered it into the hands of Mac Coghlan, who expelled the tribe of Fergal, and hanged the hostages on Shrove-Monday, which happened to be the 1st of March." At the same year we also learn that, "the castle of Eacra was demolished by O'Melaghlin and the English of Athlone ; and after that a commotion arose between Mac Coghlan and O'Melaghlin." This castle which was also called Eoughra, was not far from the present Shannon Bridge, a place not very remarkable for anything unless a good bridge there over the river Shannon, from which the name is taken, and some comparatively modern defensive works, to prevent the passage of the river from the Connaught side. It was probably at Shannon Harbour, some four or five miles down the river, in the neighbourhood of Moystown and Tisaran, that the hostile parties of the O'Maddens on one side, and Mac Coghlans and O'Melaghlins on the other, usually crossed the Shannon. Thus we find Tisaran, where, in 1542, the
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 142
As the companion tells it
As you pass through the Shannon Bridge district, you are near the site of a castle the records call Eacra, or Eoughra, demolished in 1557. That year, O'Melaghlin and the English of Athlone brought it down. After the demolition, a commotion arose between Mac Coghlan and O'Melaghlin. The same year saw trouble at another castle nearby. The castle of Fadden in Delvin Eathra was taken by a prisoner who had been confined in it. He delivered it into the hands of Mac Coghlan, who expelled the tribe of Fergal and hanged the hostages on Shrove Monday, which fell on the 1st of March. The castle of Eacra stood not far from the present Shannon Bridge, a place noted for a good bridge over the river Shannon and some comparatively modern defensive works meant to prevent passage from the Connaught side. It was probably at Shannon Harbour, some four or five miles down the river, near Moystown and Tisaran, that the hostile parties of the O'Maddens on one side, and Mac Coghlans and O'Melaghlins on the other, usually crossed the Shannon.
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Grant of Monaincha Abbey to Sir Lucas Dillon
Monaincha · townland · Tipperary · 1585
The Abbey of Monaincha, with its associated lands including Kinnetty and Kilcoleman, was granted to Sir Lucas Dillon in the twenty-eighth year of the reign of Queen Elizabeth.
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dwelt, where also was a church, formerly the church of the priory and parish, and is still the parish church ; in this village were eight waste cottages, and the land which belonged to the priory consisted of one hundred and eighty acres of arable and pasture, annual value, 30s. ; one hundred and forty of unprofitable, and sixteen acres of wood and underwood, annual value, 2s. 8d." Amongst the other lands of which this monastery was then found to be seized were the " vill of Kerneyttys " (now Kinnetty), with thirty acres, annual value, 5s. ; the " vill of Kylecoleman " (now Kilcoleman), with twenty acres, annual value, 4s. ; and the vill of Aghancon, with twenty-four acres. Also, one- third part of the rectory of " Koscomroh," and the rectory of " Lytter." This Inquisition adds, that the whole of the lands were of the annual value of 40s., "the greater part of the townlands in the said parishes being then waste." The places above named are all in the neighbourhood of Birr or Koscrea. The Abbey of Monaincha was granted to Sir Lucas Dillon in the twenty-eighth year of the reign of Queen Elizabeth.
Mr. Archdall describes the ruins of this monastery as being, in 1786, when he wrote, very interesting as regarded the situation, the materials used, and the workmanship ; and even now, when these ruins have stood the ordeal of another century, they are well worthy oi a visit. The sepulchral slab of " Black Bran," Abbot of Roscrea, which
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 66
As the companion tells it
Close to Monaincha, in 1585, the Abbey of Monaincha was granted to Sir Lucas Dillon, in the twenty-eighth year of the reign of Queen Elizabeth. An inquisition had been held before the grant, and it recorded what the priory possessed at that time. There was a church, formerly the church of the priory and parish, still serving as the parish church. The village had eight waste cottages. The land belonging to the priory ran to 180 acres of arable and pasture, worth 30 shillings a year. There were 140 acres described as unprofitable, and 16 acres of wood and underwood, worth 2 shillings and 8 pence. The monastery also held the vill of Kinnetty, with 30 acres worth 5 shillings, the vill of Kilcoleman, with 20 acres worth 4 shillings, and the vill of Aghancon, with 24 acres. It held one-third part of the rectory of Roscomroe, and the rectory of Lytter. The inquisition noted that the whole of the lands were of the annual value of 40 shillings, the greater part of the townlands in the parishes being then waste. Mr. Archdall described the ruins of the monastery in 1786 as very interesting, regarding the situation, the materials used, and the workmanship.
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Inquisition Details Manor of Synroane in 1640
Shinrone · town · Offaly · 1640
An inquisition of 1640 found Daniel Mac Gilfoyle seized of the manor, town and lands of Synroane, then containing ten houses, along with courts leet and baron, two annual fairs, and a weekly Thursday market.
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By inquisition taken at Philipstown in 1626, it was found that Oliver Grace was seized at his death of part of the rectory of " Soynroane," part of the then lately dissolved monastery of St. John (Tyone), near Nenagh; that he died the 27th of August 1626, and that his son and his widow were entitled to his property. By another inquisition taken in 1640, Daniel Mac Gilfoyle was found seized of the manor, town and lands of " Synroane," then containing ten houses, &c., and also of the lands of Magherymore and Gortgreen, and several other lands, t>arcel of the aforesaid manor. He was also found seized of a Court Leet, and Court Baron, to be held within said manor ; of two fairs to be held in Synroane annually, on the feasts of Saint Peter and Saint Martin, and of a weekly Thursday market, with all profits. It was further found that said Daniel Mac Gilfoyle, by Deed of 1634, had enfeoffed of all the premises, one Herbert or Harbert, of Killion, Robert Sweetman, of Birr, and others ; that King Charles II., by letters patent, in the thirteenth year of his reign, granted all the premises to said Daniel, and his heirs, and
190 SHINRONE.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 81
As the companion tells it
The town of Shinrone appears in records of the 1640s as a small settlement. An inquisition taken at Philipstown in 1626 found that Oliver Grace had been seized of part of the rectory of Soynroane, part of the then lately dissolved monastery of St. John, near Nenagh. He died on the 27th of August 1626, and his son and widow were entitled to his property. A later inquisition, taken in 1640, found Daniel Mac Gilfoyle seized of the manor, town, and lands of Synroane. At that time it contained ten houses. He also held the lands of Magherymore and Gortgreen, and several other lands, parcel of the same manor. The inquisition further found that Daniel Mac Gilfoyle held a Court Leet and a Court Baron within the manor. He had two fairs to be held annually, on the feasts of Saint Peter and Saint Martin, and a weekly Thursday market, with all profits. By a deed of 1634, Daniel had enfeoffed of all the premises one Herbert of Killion, Robert Sweetman of Birr, and others. King Charles the Second, by letters patent in the thirteenth year of his reign, granted all the premises to Daniel and his heirs.
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New Banagher distillery revives declining town
Banagher · town · Offaly
A fine new distillery was erected near Banagher on the site of a former distillery, employing English capital and expected to cost £65,000, producing 600,000 gallons of whiskey annually.
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To judge by appearances, however, this ancient town is emerging from its decayed state, to rank amongst other more favoured places. The fine new distillery lately erected near Banagher, where a distillery formerly stood, has already been of great service to the town by causing an expenditure of nearly one thousand pounds per month, during the several months it was in course of erection. This undertaking, carried on principally by the aid of English capital, not only promises great additional advantages to Banagher and the neighbourhood, but likewise affords an example of English confidence in an Irish enterprise; and proves how possible it is for men of each country, to work together for the common advantage. The Banagher distillery seems intended for the adoption
326 THE TOWN OF BANAGHER.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 138
As the companion tells it
Banagher is an ancient town emerging from a decayed state. A fine new distillery was erected near Banagher, where a distillery formerly stood. During its construction it caused an expenditure of nearly £1,000 per month, already of great service to the town. The undertaking was carried on principally by English capital. It was expected to cost £65,000 and produce 600,000 gallons of whiskey annually. It promised great additional advantages to Banagher and the neighbourhood. The book calls it
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Old Bridge and Brendan's Well Swept Away by Flood
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1787
An old bridge over the Birr river near Castle Street led from Brendan's Well, close to the river, and from Killeen and Croghan in Tipperary by a road later closed. This old bridge was swept away by a flood in 1787, though some remains were visible in later years.
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There was at this time, about 1620, a bridge over the Birr river, leading into the town at the end of Castle Street, near the castle. This bridge crossed the river opposite to the old church, where the distillery yard was in later days, and led from Brendan's Well, which was close to the river on the opposite side ; and from Killeen and Croghan in Tipperary, by a now long unused and closed up road. This old bridge was swept away by a flood in 1787, but some remains of it were to be seen in late years. There was also a wooden trough formerly across the river here, which conveyed water, raised by a wheel worked by the river, from Brendan's Well to a cistern which stood
46 HISTORY OF BIER.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 28
As the companion tells it
Birr, also called Parsonstown, had an old bridge over its river. About 1620, that bridge crossed the Birr river at the end of Castle Street, near the castle, opposite the old church. It led from Brendan's Well, which stood close to the river on the far side, and from Killeen and Croghan in Tipperary, by a road long since closed. A flood swept the bridge away in 1787. Some remains of it were still to be seen in later years. There was also a wooden trough across the river here, carrying water from Brendan's Well to a cistern. The water was raised by a wheel worked by the river itself.
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Relief Expedition to Nenagh and Knocknamase Castles
near Golden Grove · street · Cork · 1642
The Earl of Ormond dispatched forces from Maryborough on 8 May 1642 to relieve the besieged castles of Nenagh and Knocknamase (now Golden Grove, near Roscrea), which were reduced to great distress for want of ammunition.
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We find this castle closely besieged by the Irish in April 1642. It was reduced to such great distress during the siege that many died, while others maintained nature by feeding on cats and dogs, several respectable persons giving twenty shillings for a sucking colt, and two shillings for the blood and entrails of a horse. There were then nine hundred persons in the castle and town. On the 8th of May, the Earl of Ormond, who was then at Maryborough, despatched Sir Thomas Lucas, Commissary General of the horse, Sir Charles Coote, Sir Eichard Grenville, and Captain Yarner, with six troops of horse and dragoons, to its relief, as well as to the relief of the castles of ^uxcoj and Knocknamase (now Golden Grove, near Eoscrea), which were also reduced to great distress for want of ammunition. " This
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 31
As the companion tells it
Somewhere about Golden Grove stands the site of Knocknamase Castle, besieged by the Irish in 1642. It was reduced to great distress for want of ammunition. A companion castle under siege at the same time held 900 people and fell to such straits that many died, while others survived on cats and dogs. Respectable persons there paid twenty shillings for a sucking colt and two shillings for the blood and entrails of a horse. On 8 May 1642 the Earl of Ormond, then at Maryborough, dispatched Sir Thomas Lucas, Sir Charles Coote, Sir Richard Grenville, and Captain Yarner with six troops of horse and dragoons to relieve both castles.
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Rev. Joseph Marshall's burial at Loughkeen
Loughkeen · townland · Tipperary · 1865
Rev. Joseph Marshall, J.P. of Baronne Court, a well-regarded landlord and magistrate, died in 1865 and was buried in the ancient burial ground at Loughkeen, where his widow erected a cut stone altar tomb surmounted by a cross.
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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
s
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 117
As the companion tells it
Close to Loughkeen lies an ancient burial ground, and there, in 1865, the Reverend Joseph Marshall was laid to rest. He had been a justice of the peace, living at Baronne Court with considerable property in the vicinity. The book calls him the honest Justice, the kind, indulgent landlord, and sincere friend, and says Ireland could badly afford to lose such a man. People who came before him on the magisterial bench trusted that they would meet with nothing but fair play from the Reverend Justice. His tenantry showed respect for his memory, and for his widow and young family after his death, and the writer of these pages took that as the best testimony to his character as a landlord. He had observed Marshall's honesty of purpose and intelligence on the bench himself, over many occasions. Baronne Court stood on a rising ground amid elegant plantations, with a fine prospect taking in Knocksheegowna and the Little Brusna river, and was the beautiful residence of his widow after his death. Here at Loughkeen his widow erected a cut stone altar tomb, surmounted by a cross, over the place where he rests.
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Banagher Protestant Church built on hilltop
Banagher · town · Offaly · 1829
The Protestant Church at Banagher was erected about 1829 at a cost of over £2000. It stands on the highest point of the hill above the town, its spire visible for miles.
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The Protestant Church at Banagher was erected about the year 1829, at an expense of considerably over £2000. It is a handsome building, in the old English style of architecture, and, being placed on the highest point of the hill over the town, the fine spire is a conspicuous object for several miles around.
It is almost unnecessary to refer here to the well known fair of Banagher, which, commencing on the 15th of September each year, continues for several days, infusing new life into the old town. Yet, these occasions are few and far between, and it is to be regretted, that Banagher— a town of importance so long ago, when other places which are towns now were unknown — should have been suffered to decline so much in late years.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 138
As the companion tells it
As you pass through Banagher, the town's Protestant Church sits on the highest point of the hill above the streets. It was erected about 1829, at a cost of considerably over £2000. The book calls it "a handsome building, in the old English style of architecture," and notes that its fine spire is a conspicuous object for several miles around. The same writer recalls the well-known fair of Banagher, which begins on the 15th of September each year and continues for several days, infusing new life into the old town. Yet he regrets that Banagher, a town of importance long ago when other places which are towns now were unknown, should have been suffered to decline so much in late years.
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Burning of Saighir Chiarain and Kilcormac
Frankford · townland · Offaly · 1548
In 1548, Saighir Chiarain and Killcormac were burned by the English and O'Carroll, according to the Four Masters, reflecting the violent destruction visited on religious sites in the region during this period.
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The Four Masters tell us, that " Saighir Chiarain and Killcormac were burned by the English and O'Carroll." in the vear 1548.
232 FRANKFORD, FORMERLY KILCORMUCK.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 100
As the companion tells it
Somewhere close to Frankford, Saighir Chiarain and Kilcormac were burned. The Four Masters tell us that in 1548 "the English and O'Carroll" burned them. Religious sites in this region met violent destruction in this period, and these were among them.
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Dr Kennedy, Bishop of Killaloe, dies and is buried in Birr
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1850
The Right Rev. Dr Kennedy, Roman Catholic Bishop of Killaloe and former Parish Priest of Birr, died at Birr in 1850 and was interred in the Roman Catholic Church there. A handsome tablet was erected to his memory by the clergy of the diocese.
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On the opposite side of the altar is a somewhat similar and also very handsome tablet, erected by the Eoman Catholic Clergy of the Diocese to the memory of the late Eight Eev. Dr. Kennedy, Eoman Catholic Bishop of Killaloe, who had been Parish Priest of Birr for a considerable time. The Eight Eev. Dr. Kennedy died at Birr in 1850, and was interred in the Eoman Catholic Church there. The present altar in this church was erected to the memory of the late Very Eev. John Egan, Parish Priest of Birr, who died in October 1870. This is a very fine work, and is chiefly composed of Caen stone, beautifully moulded. The Gothic shafts are of Irish red marble, highly polished, and the altar table is Sicilian marble. The principal piece — the " Pieta " —represents the dead Christ, with the "Mater Dolor osa" in a kneeling
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 47
As the companion tells it
Birr was once called Parsonstown. In 1850 the Right Reverend Doctor Kennedy, Roman Catholic Bishop of Killaloe, died here. He had served as Parish Priest of Birr for a considerable time before his elevation to the bishopric. He was interred in the Roman Catholic Church in the town. The Roman Catholic clergy of the diocese erected a handsome tablet to his memory, placed on one side of the altar. The same church later gained a fine altar of Caen stone, with Gothic shafts of polished Irish red marble and an altar table of Sicilian marble, raised to the memory of the Very Reverend John Egan, Parish Priest of Birr, who died in October 1870.
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English erect castle at Birr, 1213
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1213
In 1213 the English erected castles at Birr, Kinnetty and Durrow, rebuilding fortifications previously destroyed by O'Bryan five years earlier.
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In 1213, the English went to Athlone where they iTected a castle, and "they also erected the castle of Kinnetty, the castle of Bin-, and the castle of Durrow." Dr. O'Donovan — from whose edition of the Four Masters this is taken — states in a note, that the Annals of Clon-
22 HISTORY OF BIRR.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 18
As the companion tells it
In 1213 the English erected a castle at Birr. They had gone first to Athlone, and from there raised castles also at Kinnetty and Durrow. These were rebuildings: the fortifications had been destroyed by O'Bryan five years before. The record comes from the Annals, in Dr. O'Donovan's edition.
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Glass Works Discovered at Clonbrone
Clonbrone · townland · Offaly · 1623
The remains of what must have been celebrated glass works, dating to about 1623, were discovered in later years at Clonbrone townland.
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The remarkable townland of Clonbrone, is not far from Killyon, being about half way between Killyon and Birr, and a mile or so from each place. It has been already stated that Clonbrone was in ancient Fearcall. The lands of Clonbrone were also included in the grant to Asgill, before referred to. In the account of Birr it has been mentioned (p. 43), that the remains of what must have been celebrated glass works, about the year 1623, were discovered at Clonbrone in late years. There is mention of Clonbrone, however, at a much earlier period. In the Life of Saint Canice, who succeeded Saint Kyran at Saiger, taken from a work in the library of the Dukes of Burgundy at Brussels, and edited by the Most Noble the Marquis of Ormond, it is stated that Saint Canice used to retire to Clonbrone, and that he there performed several miracles, and subjected himself to many rigorous acts of penance and fasting. A full account of this, and of some of the miracles performed by him there, will be found in paragraph 33 and the
184 CLONBRONE.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 79
As the companion tells it
Somewhere around here lies Clonbrone. It sits about halfway between Killyon and Birr, roughly a mile from each. These lands were part of ancient Fearcall, and they were included in the grant to Asgill. What stands out most is what was found in later years: the remains of what must have been celebrated glass works, dating to about 1623. Whoever worked here was skilled, and the glass they made must have been well regarded in its time. But the place goes back much further than that. In the Life of Saint Canice, taken from a work in the library of the Dukes of Burgundy at Brussels and edited by the Marquis of Ormond, it is written that Saint Canice used to retire to Clonbrone. There he performed several miracles and subjected himself to many rigorous acts of penance and fasting. So this quiet stretch of ground carries two very different memories: industry and devotion, glass and prayer, both tied to the same soil. The full account of the saint and his miracles here is recorded in the text itself.
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MacCoghlan chief's fair castles praised by ancient poet
Delvin · town · Westmeath
The head of the MacCoghlan clan was styled 'MacCochlain na Caisleain Ghlegeal' meaning 'MacCoghlan of the Fair Castles.' The poet O'Dugan called him the valorous mainstay and prince of delightful Delvin Ahra.
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"MacCoghlan is the valorous mainstay, And prince of delightful Delvin Ahra."
The MacCoghlans are frequently mentioned in the ancient annals, but it will be sufficient to refer here to a few of the many notices of them by the Four Masters, since the English invasion of Ireland. Thus we have already seen (p. 228), that in 1175, " Giolla Coluim O'Maolmuaidh (O'Molloy) lord of Ferkale, was treacherously slain by Eoderick, son of Conor MacCoghlan." In 1199, " Murchadh MacCoghlan, lord of Delvin Eathra," died; in 1292, " MacCoghlan lord of Delvin More," was slain by Sinn MacFeorais (Bermingham),at the instigation of the Earl (of Ulster); and in the year 1371, Fergal MacCoghlan died, while imprisoned by O'Kennedy. It has been seen (p.163), .that Edmond a Faihy, or Fahy, gained a battle in Delvin in 1548, and brought the heads of the slain to
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 132
As the companion tells it
The town of Delvin was once the heart of MacCoghlan country. The head of the clan was styled MacCoghlan of the Fair Castles. The poet O'Dugan called him the valorous mainstay and prince of delightful Delvin Ahra. The annals of the Four Masters trace the clan's fate across the centuries. In 1175, Giolla Coluim O'Maolmuaidh, lord of Ferkale, was treacherously slain by Eoderick, son of Conor MacCoghlan. In 1199, Murchadh MacCoghlan, lord of Delvin Eathra, died. In 1292, MacCoghlan, lord of Delvin More, was slain by Sinn MacFeorais, called Bermingham, at the instigation of the Earl of Ulster. In 1371, Fergal MacCoghlan died while imprisoned by O'Kennedy. In 1548, Edmond a Faihy gained a battle in Delvin and brought the heads of the slain.
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Mountpleasant mansion scroll recording Princes of Offaley
Mountpleasant · townland · Offaly
Mr. O'Connor Morris of Mountpleasant in the King's County holds a small portion of the ancient principality, and on the roof of the mansion there erected by one of the family is a scroll recording that the owners were the Princes of Offaley.
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Mr. O'Connor Morris still holds a small portion of the ancient principality in the King's County ; and on the roof of the mansion at Mountpleasant, erected by one of the family, there is a scroll recording that the owners were the " Princes of Offaley."
Killeigh, already mentioned, and which is still the burial place of the O'Connor family, is in the barony of Geashill, in ancient Offaley. Mr. Archdall tells us
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 112
As the companion tells it
Somewhere around here at Mountpleasant, Mr. O'Connor Morris holds a small portion of the ancient principality in the King's County. One of the family erected a mansion here, and on its roof there is a scroll recording that the owners were the "Princes of Offaley." Killeigh, in the barony of Geashill, in ancient Offaley, is still the burial place of the O'Connor family.
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O'Moore family vault and inscription at Meelick
Meelick · townland · Galway · 1631–1671
The burial place of the O'Moore or Moore family was at Meelick, where a slab bears a Latin inscription commemorating Sir John More who died in 1631 and Dame Margaret More who died in 1671.
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The late respected Hubert Butler Moore, of Shannon Grove, in the County Galway, was representative of a younger branch of the Cloghan Castle family. His mother was Maria, Lady Dunboyne, widow of the twelfth Baron Dunboyne. Colonel O'Moore, who commanded the Clanrikard Chasseurs, at the review of the Volunteer Corps at Birr in 1784 (p. 93), was uncle to the late Mr. Moore, whose father was adjutant in that gallant and patriotic corps. The burial place of the family is at Meelick, on the bank of the river Shannon opposite Lusmagh, where, as already mentioned, 0' Madden, dynast of Silancia, founded a monastery. At the vault of the O'Moore or Moore family here, there is a slab with a Latin inscription, which in English is, "Here lies Sir John More my grandfather who died in the month of May 1631. Also here lies Dame Margaret More otherwise De Burgo my wife who died in the month of February 1671 daughter of Eichard Earl of Clanricarde in whose memory I Garrett More Colonel in the king's army and faithful to the last have caused to be constructed
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 147
As the companion tells it
Near here at Meelick, on the bank of the river Shannon opposite Lusmagh, is the burial place of the O'Moore or Moore family. O'Madden, dynast of Silancia, founded a monastery there. At the family vault there is a slab with a Latin inscription. In English it reads: "Here lies Sir John More my grandfather who died in the month of May 1631. Also here lies Dame Margaret More otherwise De Burgo my wife who died in the month of February 1671 daughter of Richard Earl of Clanricarde in whose memory I Garrett More Colonel in the king's army and faithful to the last have caused to be constructed." Colonel O'Moore commanded the Clanrikard Chasseurs at the review of the Volunteer Corps at Birr in 1784. He was uncle to Hubert Butler Moore of Shannon Grove in County Galway. He was representative of a younger branch of the Cloghan Castle family. Hubert's mother was Maria, Lady Dunboyne, widow of the twelfth Baron Dunboyne. His father was adjutant in that corps.
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Preston Takes Fortfalkland (Banagher) After Birr
Banagher · town · Offaly · 1643–1645
After the surrender of Birr, Preston advanced upon and took Banagher (referred to as Fortfalkland), continuing in possession of the castle of Birr and other King's County forts through 1643 and 1645.
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The following, taken from Castlehaveri* s Memoirs, shows the extremities to which the Birr garrison was reduced. Lord Castlehaven was Lieutenant General of the Leinster horse, under Preston, and was a witness of the scenes he describes, the day after the capitulation. " My General " (Preston), says he, "took Burris, Fortfalkland," (Banagher), "and Birr, in the King's County, where I was with him, and had the good fortune to begin my command in the army with an act of charity, for, going to see the garrison of Birr before it marched out, I came into a
62 HISTORY OF BIRR.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 33
As the companion tells it
After the surrender of Birr, the road comes near Banagher, which Lord Castlehaven's memoirs call Fortfalkland. Castlehaven was Lieutenant General of the Leinster horse, under Preston, and witnessed what he describes the day after the capitulation. He says, "My General took Burris, Fortfalkland, and Birr, in the King's County." Castlehaven was with Preston at Banagher, and counted it good fortune that his first command began with an act of charity. He had gone to see the garrison of Birr before it marched out, and there he came into a scene that moved him to compassion.
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Relief March Through Mountrath Woods
Mountrath · town · Laois · 1642
The relief party of horse took their way through the woods of Mountrath on their difficult and dangerous march, performing the service for which they were sent before returning through O'Dunn's country by Portarlington.
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enterprise," says Mr. Carte, " was both difficult and dangerous, by reason of the distance of these places, the length of the march, and badness of the roads through woods, bogs, and denies ; and the great multitude of the enemy's troops which lay disposed in these parts, and which, united, might intercept the detachment, if not in their march, at least in their retreat to the army." This party of horse took their way through the woods of Mountrath, performed the service for which they were sent, and returning through O'Dunn's country by the way of Portenehinch, whither the Earl of Ormond sent a body of 500 foot and a troop of horse, under Colonel Monk, to favour their passage of the Barrow, they, after surmounting incredible difficulties, and performing a march of forty-eight hours without more than three hours' rest, came back safe to the army, not having met with any loss except that of some horses which were rendered unserviceable by the greatness of the fatigue. It is stated in Playfair's Irish Baronetage, that it was in consequence of this successful expedition that the title of Earl of Mountrath was entailed on the posterity of Sir Charles Coote.
The following account of occurrences at Birr in the early part of 1643 is taken partly from Carte's Ormond and other writers, and partly from a MS. Journal which was in the possession of the late Laurence, Earl of Eosse in 1826. This Journal purported to have been kept at Birr castle during the occurrences mentioned in it, and it had every appearance of being
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 32
As the companion tells it
In 1642, a relief party of horse took their way through the woods of Mountrath on a march that Mr. Carte called, in his words, "both difficult and dangerous." The distance was great, the roads bad, running through woods, bogs, and dens, and a great multitude of the enemy's troops lay disposed in these parts. United, those troops might have intercepted the detachment, if not on the march, then at least in their retreat to the army. The party of horse performed the service for which they were sent. They returned through O'Dunn's country by the way of Portenelinch, where the Earl of Ormond sent a body of 500 foot and a troop of horse under Colonel Monk to favour their passage of the Barrow. After surmounting incredible difficulties, and performing a march of forty-eight hours without more than three hours' rest, they came back safe to the army. They met with no loss except some horses rendered unserviceable by the greatness of the fatigue. Playfair's Irish Baronetage states that it was in consequence of this successful expedition that the title of Earl of Mountrath was entailed on the posterity of Sir Charles Coote.
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Remains of MacEgan castle at Redwood
Redwood · townland · Tipperary
Near Ballyhocter (Baile-ui-Eachdach), not far from the Ferry, is Coillte Ruadha or Redwood, where the remains of a castle formerly the residence of the MacEgans can still be seen.
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Ormond, in former times, and here many persons of note with their followers, passed from one side to the other. In these past times when bridges were almost unknown, a ferry and the proper keeping of it were matters of great importance, but the fine bridge now over the river Shannon here, leading to Portumna on the opposite side, is no doubt a great improvement on this ancient " ferry." Again, the facility for getting from Birr to Portumna now in less than an hour, by the Parsonstown and Portumna Eailway, the station of which is near " The Ferry " and the bridge, is much more satisfactory than travelling the same route was in the year 1620, when, as mentioned (p. 39), Francis Morley was obliged to hire a guide to conduct him from Birr to Portumna, which journey cost him five shillings and eightpence — a large sum in the currency of the time. In the Irish language the word port means " a ferry," as also a port or harbour, a fort or garrison. We accordingly find the names of several places in the neighbourhood of "The Ferry," commencing with the word port, as the town of Portumna, formerly Port Omna, and Portland on the bank of the river Shannon, where are the elegant mansion and beautiful demesne of Thomas Butler Sidney^ J.P. Higher up the river is the ancient Baile-ui-Eachdach, now called Ballyhocter, which formerly belonged to O'Kennedy ; and not far from this is Coillte Euadha or Eedwood, where are the remains of a castle heretofore the residence of the MacEgans. At the opposite side of Portumna Bridge from Portland, but on the
286 THE ABBEY OF TIRDAGLASS.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 121
As the companion tells it
Somewhere around here, close to Redwood, are the remains of a castle that was once the residence of the MacEgans. The place was known in Irish as Coillte Ruadha, which means Redwood. This stretch of country was part of Ormond in former times, and many persons of note with their followers passed from one side to the other here. In those days, when bridges were almost unknown, a ferry and the keeping of it were matters of great importance. The fine bridge now over the river Shannon, leading to Portumna on the opposite side, replaced this ancient ferry. Travelling the route from Birr to Portumna is far easier now. In the year 1620, a man named Francis Morley had to hire a guide to conduct him from Birr to Portumna. That journey cost him five shillings and eightpence, a large sum in the currency of the time. The Irish word port means a ferry, as well as a port or harbour, or a fort or garrison. Several places near the ferry begin with that word. Portumna was formerly called Port Omna. Portland sits on the bank of the Shannon, where Thomas Butler Sidney J.P. had his mansion and demesne. Higher up the river was the ancient Baile-ui-Eachdach, now called Ballyhocter, which belonged to O'Kennedy. And not far from there is Redwood, where the MacEgans had their castle.
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Repairs to Nenagh Castle Recorded in 1287 Pipe Rolls
Nenagh · town · Tipperary · 1287
Pipe Rolls in the Record Tower, Dublin Castle, record a considerable sum charged around 1287 for repairs to the Castle of Nenagh during the minority of Theobald, heir of Theobald le Boteller, including repairs to towers, prisons, and a bridge.
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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
298 THE TOWN OF NENAGH.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 127
As the companion tells it
As you pass through Nenagh, the old castle here had major repairs in 1287. The Pipe Rolls in Dublin Castle record that Walter de la Haye, Escheator of Ireland, charged a considerable sum for work on the Castle of Nenagh while it was in the king's hands during the minority of Theobald, heir of Theobald le Boteller. The charges covered repairing and roofing towers and houses.
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River sinks underground near the Rapemills
Rape Mills · population centre · Offaly
A small river near the Rapemills sinks into the earth in a remarkable way, rising again at a considerable distance, noted as worth inspection.
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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
As the companion tells it
Rape Mills sits halfway between Birr and Banagher. About forty years ago, a fire-ball or meteoric stone descended upon the mill that gave this place its name. It broke 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. A similar one fell at Cloneen in 1827. The place was remarkable for something else too. In 1830, white magpies appeared here, birds very uncommon in Ireland. The common magpie itself was not known in Ireland a century ago. It was called pianet, and in Irish maggidipye. Even now 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.
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Roscrea Protestant church built on Abbey site
Roscrea · town · Tipperary · 1812
Roscrea Protestant church was erected in 1812, standing near or upon the site of St. Cronan's Abbey.
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Roscrea Protestant church was erected in 1812. It is a fine substantial building, and stands near or upon the site of St. Cronan's Abbey. The Venerable Archdeacon Eoe is now the respected Rector of Roscrea. The Wesleyan chapel, on the Mall by the river, was erected in 1801, but was rebuilt in late years in a very creditable manner, and is now a very fine building.
The names of the principal inhabitants and traders of Roscrea in the year 1823, will be found (No. 15) in the Appendix. Some other interesting events, in connexion with Roscrea, will also be met with throughout the work.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 64
As the companion tells it
Roscrea in Tipperary has a Protestant church put up in 1812, a fine substantial building that stands near or upon the site of St. Cronan's Abbey. So the old abbey and the new church share this ground, the one built where the other may have stood. The Wesleyan chapel on the Mall by the river was older, put up in 1801, and rebuilt in later years. A town with layers like this keeps its history close under the surface.
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Tulla and Fortel Identified as Battle Sites
Kinnitty · parish · Offaly · 1657
The townland of Tulla in Kinnitty parish, on the route to the Gap of Glendine through the Slieve Bloom mountains, and nearby Fortel (called Fortalla on the 1657 Down Survey Map), are identified as the sites of the battle of Tola and Forthela.
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Tulla is still the name of a townland in the parish of Kinnitty, King's County, on the way from Saiger Church to the Gap of Glendine, which is a difficult, but the only pass in this neighbourhood, through the Sliebh Bloom mountains into the Queen's County and Ossory, and to Clonfert Molua in that county. Tulla, which is only a few miles from Birr, is situate therefore, just as Tola is described to be, between Saiger and Clonfert Molua. The second place mentioned in some of the accounts of this battle, and called Forthela and Forthalo, is the same now named Fortel, near Birr, and which is iu the same direction as Tulla, and not very far from it. On the Down Survey Map, made even so late as 1C57, Fortel is still called Fortalla.
The following bishops and abbots, successors of St.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 16
As the companion tells it
As you pass through the parish of Kinnitty, there is a townland called Tulla, on the way from Saiger Church to the Gap of Glendine. That gap is a difficult pass, but the only one in this neighbourhood through the Slieve Bloom mountains. Tulla is only a few miles from Birr, and it sits between Saiger and Clonfert Molua, just as the old place called Tola is described. A second place named in some accounts of the battle, called Forthela or Forthalo, is the same place now called Fortel, near Birr, in the same direction as Tulla and not far from it. On the Down Survey Map of 1657, Fortel still appears as Fortalla. So Tulla and Fortel are identified as the sites of the battle of Tola and Forthela.
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Birr Reckoned Part of Munster and Ormond
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly
Colgan describes Birr as a monastery in Ely in Munster, and Keating places it not only in Munster but as part of Ormond, showing the town's ancient territorial affiliation.
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We have already seen that the ancient Ely 0' Carroll was in Munster; but to show beyond doubt that the town of Birr was in past ages reckoned part of Munster, we find Colgan has, " Birra Monasterium in Elia in Mumonia " — Birr, a monastery in Ely in Munster. In his History of Ireland, Keating not only places it in Munster, but makes it part of Ormond ; and according to the same historian, the boundaries of ancient Meath reached the town of Birr, in the reign of Tuathall Teachtmhar. This confirms the fact already stated, that the river which flows from Drumcullen through Birr, is the Abhan Chara mentioned as part of the bounds of ancient Meath. These bounds of ancient Meath are described as follows in the translation of an old Irish Eann : —
" From Lough-bo-deirg to Birr, From the Shannon east to the sea, To Cumar Chluana-Iraird, And to Cumar Chluana-aird."
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 12
As the companion tells it
The town of Birr was once reckoned part of Munster. Colgan called it a monastery in Ely in Munster, writing: "Birra Monasterium in Elia in Mumonia." Keating went further in his History of Ireland, placing the town not only in Munster but as part of Ormond. According to the same historian, the boundaries of ancient Meath reached here in the reign of Tuathall Teachtmhar. This ties to the river that flows from Drumcullen through the town, which is the Abhan Chara named as part of the bounds of ancient Meath. Those bounds are described in the translation of an old Irish Eann: "From Lough-bo-deirg to Birr, from the Shannon east to the sea, to Cumar Chluana-Iraird, and to Cumar Chluana-aird." So this place sat at a meeting point of old kingdoms, claimed by Munster and reached by Meath.
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Birth and Baptism of William Parsons at Parsonstown Castle
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1661
Laurence Parsons recorded that his son William was born in his castle of Parsonstown on 8 June 1661 about noon on a Saturday, and was christened the following Wednesday in the church of Parsonstown by Mr Well.
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"The 8th of June (1661) my son William was borne in my castle of Parsonstowne about (12) a clocke at noone, being Saturday, and ye Wednesday after was christened by Mr Well in ye church of Parsonstowne. His godfathers weare my wife's fatherin-law, Sr- Will: Fflower, and my brother-in-law, Sr- Will: Parsons of Langly parke, in England, in Buckinghamshire, but neither of ym- being heare, my brother Blunt and my cousen Will: Parsons stood for ym- My sister Sankie was his godmother.
"The 29th of June (1662) my sone Savage was borne in my castle of Parsonstowne about (5) of ye clocke in ye afternoone, being Sonday, and ye Wednesday after was christened in my wife's chamber, being weake. His godfathers woare my cousen Eawsen
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 35
As the companion tells it
In the town of Birr, once called Parsonstown, Laurence Parsons kept a record of his son's birth. He wrote that William was born in his castle of Parsonstown on the 8th of June 1661, about 12 o'clock at noon, being a Saturday. The Wednesday after, the child was christened by Mr Well in the church of Parsonstown. The godfathers named were Laurence's wife's father-in-law, Sir William Flower, and his brother-in-law, Sir William Parsons of Langley Park in Buckinghamshire, England. Neither of them was there, so his brother Blunt and his cousin William Parsons stood for them. His sister Sankie was the godmother. A year later, in June 1662, Laurence's son Savage was also born in the castle, on a Sunday afternoon, and christened that Wednesday in his wife's chamber, the child being weak.
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Clonmacnoise repeatedly destroyed by fire
Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 719–811
Clonmacnoise suffered much from fire in 719, and again in March 751, and in the years 773 and 811.
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719. Clonmacnoise suffered much from fire this year, as also in March 751, and again in the years 773 and 811.
738. The battle of Athsenaith near Clonmacnoise, took place.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 148
As the companion tells it
Somewhere close to Clonmacnoise, fire came back again and again. The place suffered much from fire in the year 719, and again in March 751, and in the years 773 and 811. Four times in less than a century, the flames returned. A battle was also fought near here, at Athsenaith, in the year 738, between those first fires and the next.
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Four Ancient Dioceses Near Birr
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly
The neighbourhood of Birr formerly contained at least four small dioceses: Saiger or Seir Kyrans, Roscrea, Craibhech or Brusna, and Birr itself, with several abbots also styled bishops.
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It seems there were formerly at least four small Dioceses in the neighbourhood of Birr. These were Saiger or Seir Kyrans, Eoscrea, Craibhech or Brusna, and Birr ; for St. Brendan was at times styled Bishop, and Flaithnia, Abbot of Birr, was also called Bishop of Biorra. The title Bishop was also given to some of the Abbots of Lorah.
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
As the companion tells it
The neighbourhood of Birr held at least four small dioceses in former times. They were Saiger, also called Seir Kyrans, Roscrea, Craibhech or Brusna, and Birr itself. St. Brendan was at times styled Bishop, and Flaithnia, Abbot of Birr, was also called Bishop of Biorra. The title Bishop was likewise given to some of the Abbots of Lorah. In 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.
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Garrycastle takes its name from ruined castle 'garden of the castle'
Garrycastle · townland · Offaly
About half a mile from Banagher are the remains of a castle formerly called Garrdha-an-caislein (Garrancashlane), meaning 'garden of the castle,' from which the barony name Garrycastle derives; it was one of MacCoghlan's principal strongholds.
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About half a mile from Banagher, at the Birr side, are the remains of the castle called in former times Garrdha-an-caislein, (Garrancashlane), that is, " garden of the castle," from which the name Garrycastle seems to have been formed and applied to the barony. There is not much known as to the past history of this castle, unless that it was one of the
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 132
As the companion tells it
Somewhere close to Garrycastle are the remains of a castle once called Garrdha-an-caislein, meaning garden of the castle. The name Garrycastle was formed from it and given to the barony. Not much is known about this castle, except that it was one of MacCoghlan's principal strongholds.
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Joan, sister of Earl of Arran, dies of plague
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1383
In 1383 Joan, sister of James, third Earl of Arran, who was married to Teige O'Carroll, Prince of Ely, died of the plague.
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In the year 1346, O'Carroll was slain in Ely by the Ossorians; and in 1383, Joan, the sister of James, the third Earl of Arran, who was married to Teige O'Carroll, Prince of Ely, died of the plague. Notwithstanding this tic by marriage, the Earl in 1399, took prisoner his brother-in-law, O'Carroll, who afterwards continued in custody until the year 1407 ; when,
HISTORY OF BIRR. 2o
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 18
As the companion tells it
Birr, or Parsonstown, has an old connection to the O'Carrolls of Ely. In 1383, Joan, sister of James, the third Earl of Arran, and married to Teige O'Carroll, Prince of Ely, died of the plague. Despite that family tie, the Earl took his brother-in-law O'Carroll prisoner in 1399. O'Carroll stayed in custody until 1407.
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Long List of Abbots of Roscrea Abbey
Roscrea · town · Tipperary · 800–1173
More than 25 abbots or superiors of Roscrea Abbey are recorded after St. Cronan, beginning with Abbot Fiangus who died in 800 and ending with Conaig O'Haengusa, Superior of the Canons of Roscrea, who died in 1173.
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"We have been handed down, on good authority, the names of more than 25 abbots or superiors of Eoscrea Abbey after St. Cronan, commencing with the Abbot Fiangus who, according to the Four Masters, died in the year 800, and ending with Conaig O'Haengusa, "Superior of the Canons of Eoscrea," who, on the same authority, died in 1173. It would be uninteresting to the general reader to go through this long list of names, extending over a period of nearly 400 years, although several of those mentioned were eminent for
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 59
As the companion tells it
Roscrea kept a long line of abbots after Saint Cronan. More than 25 of them are recorded, beginning with Abbot Fiangus, who the Four Masters say died in 800. The last was Conaig O'Haengusa, called Superior of the Canons of Roscrea, who died in 1173. That stretch of names runs nearly 400 years, and several of the men in it were noted as eminent, though the source leaves it there.
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Roman Catholic Church tower and spire at Banagher
Banagher · town · Offaly
A gothic tower and spire were erected at the Roman Catholic Church of Banagher at an outlay of about £1100, built under Rev. Kieran Egan, architect William Hague, and builder Patrick Sheridan of Birr.
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The beautiful gothic tower and spire lately erected to the Eoman Catholic Church of Banagher, at an outlay of about £11 00, show what the people of this hitherto neglected town can do. This tower and spire, with the elegant cut stone entrance and windows, and rich gilt cross surmounting all, would be ornamental to any town, and are creditable alike to all concerned, including the Eeverend Kieran Egan, the respected Parish Priest, William Hague, Esq., the architect, and the builder, Mr. Patrick Sheridan, of Birr.
The re-establishment in Cuba House near the town, of the long celebrated Eoyal School founded in 1628, as mentioned (p. 318), must likewise be a great advantage to Banagher and surrounding country. This fine mansion called Cuba House, which is such an ornament to the neighbourhood, appears to have been originally erected by one of the Eraser family, who had consider, able property about Banagher heretofore.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 138
As the companion tells it
As you pass through Banagher, the Roman Catholic Church has a beautiful gothic tower and spire that were lately erected at an outlay of about £1100. The tower and spire, with their elegant cut stone entrance and windows, and a rich gilt cross surmounting all, would be ornamental to any town. They show what the people of this hitherto neglected town can do. They are creditable to all concerned: the Reverend Kieran Egan, the respected Parish Priest; William Hague, the architect; and the builder, Mr. Patrick Sheridan, of Birr. Cuba House near the town was the site of the re-establishment of the long celebrated Royal School, founded in 1628. Cuba House appears to have been originally erected by one of the Fraser family, who had considerable property about Banagher.
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Altar erected to memory of Very Rev. John Egan, P.P. of Birr
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1870
The present altar of Birr's Roman Catholic Church was erected in memory of Very Rev. John Egan, Parish Priest of Birr, who died in October 1870. The altar is made of Caen stone with Irish red marble shafts and features a Pieta sculpture.
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On the opposite side of the altar is a somewhat similar and also very handsome tablet, erected by the Eoman Catholic Clergy of the Diocese to the memory of the late Eight Eev. Dr. Kennedy, Eoman Catholic Bishop of Killaloe, who had been Parish Priest of Birr for a considerable time. The Eight Eev. Dr. Kennedy died at Birr in 1850, and was interred in the Eoman Catholic Church there. The present altar in this church was erected to the memory of the late Very Eev. John Egan, Parish Priest of Birr, who died in October 1870. This is a very fine work, and is chiefly composed of Caen stone, beautifully moulded. The Gothic shafts are of Irish red marble, highly polished, and the altar table is Sicilian marble. The principal piece — the " Pieta " —represents the dead Christ, with the "Mater Dolor osa" in a kneeling
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 47
As the companion tells it
The town of Birr has a Roman Catholic Church whose altar was raised to the memory of Very Rev. John Egan, the Parish Priest, who died in October 1870. The altar is chiefly Caen stone, beautifully moulded, with Gothic shafts of Irish red marble, highly polished. The altar table is Sicilian marble. The principal piece is the Pieta, representing the dead Christ with the Mater Dolorosa kneeling. On the opposite side of the altar is a tablet to Dr. Kennedy, Roman Catholic Bishop of Killaloe, who had been Parish Priest there for a considerable time. He died in the town in 1850 and was buried in the church. The Roman Catholic Clergy of the Diocese erected that tablet.
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Ancient Boundary of Meath Reached Birr
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly
According to Keating, the boundaries of ancient Meath reached the town of Birr during the reign of Tuathal Teachtmhar, with the river through Birr identified as part of these ancient bounds.
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We have already seen that the ancient Ely 0' Carroll was in Munster; but to show beyond doubt that the town of Birr was in past ages reckoned part of Munster, we find Colgan has, " Birra Monasterium in Elia in Mumonia " — Birr, a monastery in Ely in Munster. In his History of Ireland, Keating not only places it in Munster, but makes it part of Ormond ; and according to the same historian, the boundaries of ancient Meath reached the town of Birr, in the reign of Tuathall Teachtmhar. This confirms the fact already stated, that the river which flows from Drumcullen through Birr, is the Abhan Chara mentioned as part of the bounds of ancient Meath. These bounds of ancient Meath are described as follows in the translation of an old Irish Eann : —
" From Lough-bo-deirg to Birr, From the Shannon east to the sea, To Cumar Chluana-Iraird, And to Cumar Chluana-aird."
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 12
As the companion tells it
The town of Birr carries an old line on the map. In past ages it was reckoned part of Munster. Colgan called it Birr, a monastery in Ely in Munster, and Keating, in his History of Ireland, not only places it in Munster but makes it part of Ormond. According to Keating, the boundaries of ancient Meath reached the town of Birr in the reign of Tuathal Teachtmhar. The river that flows from Drumcullen through Birr is the Abhan Chara, named as part of those ancient bounds. An old Irish poem sets the line: from Lough-bo-deirg to Birr, from the Shannon east to the sea, to Cumar Chluana-Iraird, and to Cumar Chluana-aird. So this town stood where one ancient kingdom ended and another held its ground.
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Completion of the Cloictheach round tower
Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 1124
In 1124 the "Cloictheach" of Clonmacnoise, understood by some antiquarians to mean a round tower, was finished by O'Malone, successor of St Kieran.
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1124. The " Cloictheach " of Clonmacnoise, was finished by O'Malone, the successor of St. Kieran. (It may be here mentioned, that antiquarians differ as to the meaning of the word " cloictheach," some understanding by it a round tower, but from which interpretation others dissent.)
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 150
As the companion tells it
Somewhere close to Clonmacnoise, a great work was finished in 1124. The Cloictheach of Clonmacnoise was completed by O'Malone, the successor of St Kieran. Antiquarians have long disagreed over what the word cloictheach means. Some take it to mean a round tower. Others dissent from that reading entirely.
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Tombstone of scribe Martin at Clonmacnoise
Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 867
The scribe Martin of the abbey died in 867, and his tombstone survived at Clonmacnoise at the time of writing.
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867. Died Martin, a scribe of this abbey. His tombstone is at Clonmacnoise yet.
885. The Four Masters relate that this year, a male child only two months old spoke at Craebh-Lairc, (now Creevagh near Clonmacnoise)} and said, " Good God."
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 149
As the companion tells it
Somewhere close to Clonmacnoise, a tombstone marks the grave of Martin, a scribe of the abbey, who died in 867. The stone was still standing here at the time of writing.
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Battle of Athsenaith near Clonmacnoise
Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 738
In 738, the battle of Athsenaith took place near Clonmacnoise.
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738. The battle of Athsenaith near Clonmacnoise, took place.
759. The abbot Eonan died. There is a slab at Clonmacnoise yet, which is probably his.
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 148
As the companion tells it
Somewhere close to Clonmacnoise, a battle was fought in 738. The records call it the battle of Athsenaith. Nothing more survives about it than the year and the name.
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Death and Burial of Infant Savage Parsons at Parsonstown Church
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1662
Laurence Parsons' son Savage was born in the castle of Parsonstown on 29 June 1662, and died on the 23rd of November following, being buried in the church of Parsonstown near his aunt Lowther.
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and Cap: Peasly of Roskreagh. His godmother was my mother Fflower. Ye (23) of Novr after, he died and was buried in ye church of Parsonstowne, neere my aunt Lowther.
" The 13th of August (1663) my daughter Dorothy was borne in my castle of Parsonstowne. Her godmothers weare M18- Cearle of Eglish, and M1"8 Bullin of Roskreagh. Her godfather was Bishop Worth, Bishop of Killalooe. — Lau: Parsons."
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 35
As the companion tells it
Parsonstown, or Birr as it is now called. In 1662, Laurence Parsons had a son, Savage, born in the castle on the 29th of June. The boy lived less than five months. He died on the 23rd of November and was buried in the church of Parsonstown, near his aunt Lowther.
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O'Dalachain monument at Pallas old church
Pallas · townland · Tipperary
The monument of the O'Dalachains is located in the old church at Pallas, County Tipperary, about four miles from Birr.
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To return to Mac Coghlan's " Fair Castles." There was likewise a castle of some importance heretofore at Moystown, near Clonoony, for we learn from the Four Masters that the castle of Magh-Istean, or Moystown, was one of those demolished in 1548 " least they should be taken by the English." There was also a Castle at Liscloony in this neighbourhood, as to which the same writers tell us that in the year 1556, " the Castle of Lis-Cluaine, in Delvin, was completed by Malachy O'Dalachain on the festival of Saint Mathew the Evangelist." The monument of the O'Dalachain' s is in the old church at Pallas, in the County Tipperary, about four miles from Birr.
The ruins of the Castle of Fadden, sometimes called Fedan, are near Bellmount, about two miles northeast from Clonoony, and about the same distance north from Cloghan. This was likewise a very re-
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 141
As the companion tells it
Somewhere around here, in the old church at Pallas, about 4 miles from Birr, stands the monument of the O'Dalachains. The O'Dalachains were builders in this part of the country. The Four Masters tell us that in 1556, the Castle of Lis-Cluaine, in Delvin, was completed by Malachy O'Dalachain on the festival of Saint Mathew the Evangelist. That castle stood in the same neighbourhood as Liscloony and Moystown, where Mac Coghlan's fair castles once held ground. The castle of Magh-Istean, or Moystown, was demolished in 1548, lest it should be taken by the English. So the O'Dalachains built and lost, and what remains of them here is their monument, set in the old church at Pallas, in County Tipperary.
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Ancient Church of Druim-cuillinn ruins
Drumcullen · parish · Offaly
On rising ground facing Castle Bernard stand the ruins of the ancient Church of Druim-cuillinn, now Drumcullen.
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On a rising ground facing Castle Bernard are the ruins of the ancient Church of Druim-cuillinn^ now
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 69
As the companion tells it
As you pass through the parish of Drumcullen, the ruins of an ancient church stand on rising ground, facing Castle Bernard. This church was once called Druim-cuillinn.
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Death and burial of Very Rev. John Spain in Birr church he improved
Birr or Parsonstown · town · Offaly · 1848
The Very Rev. John Spain, who remodeled the Roman Catholic Church of Birr and added its stained glass window and adjoining convent, died on 10 May 1848 and was buried on the east side of the altar in that church.
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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
As the companion tells it
Birr, in Offaly. The Very Reverend John Spain died on the 10th of May 1848. He had remodeled the Roman Catholic church here, added its stained glass window and an adjoining convent. He was buried on the east side of the altar in that same church.
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Killeigh, burial place of the O'Connor family
Killeigh · town · Offaly
Killeigh, in the barony of Geashill in ancient Offaley, is noted as still being the burial place of the O'Connor family.
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Killeigh, already mentioned, and which is still the burial place of the O'Connor family, is in the barony of Geashill, in ancient Offaley. Mr. Archdall tells us
Internet Archive earlyhistoryofto00cookuoft, Chapter 112
This book is in the public domain; how the books' rights are judged. The passages are quoted as the scan has them, spelling and all; a story's place is the gazetteer's best reading of the text and can be wrong.