Name: The Gailliv. : an illustrated history of the ancient city of Galway
Author: D. Travers, ed

Lough Corrib's ancient name from Manannan Mac Lir

Lough Corrib · lake or lakes · Galway

Some writers derive the name of Lough Corrib from a Carthaginian merchant named Orbsen, commonly called Manannan Mac Lir, who visited the western shore in pre-Christian times. He was called 'God of the Sea' by the Scots and gave his name to the Isle of Man.

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country, and place him very early in the fifth century." Oorrib is thus indebted for its name to the great Carthagenian, and this is undoubtedly a most interesting fact." " It has its source in Bonbanan in the half barony of Eoss, and thence extends eight miles eastward to the river of Cong, having the half barony of Ross partly on each side, partly dividing Ross from Moycullen barony and partly having Ross on the north side — it extends southwards twelve miles in length till it discharges itself into the river of Galway."

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 41

Mayor Blakeny expels Catholics from Galway in 1715

Galway · city · Galway · 1715

In 1715, Robert Blakeny, Mayor of Galway, reported to the Lords Justices that he had expelled all Catholics from the town except about twenty merchants, from whom he took security.

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The lands and possessions of the Abbey, which were considerable, were soon after confiscated, and the despoiled Brethren were obliged to remove within the walls, where they have ever since continued under many privations. It appears, from the evidence still extant, that they urged their claim on the former Corporation, particularly during the disastrous period of James the Second's visit to Ireland, that it was fully recognised, and would have been honourably satisfied, but for the political changes which soon after took place. The Friars were soon after doomed to undergo unparalleled scenes of persecution, extending to transportation, imprisonment, and even death, in case of return. There now lies before me an original licence of leave to remain in the Kingdom, granted to Dorninick Martyn, an Augustinian Friar of Gal way, who is described in his petition as "a poore olde man of three score and nine years, and full of infirmitie." He was ordered, however, to enter into " good securitie by recognizance" for £200 to keep the peace, &c. And.so important an " act of state" was this licence considered at the time, that it bears the signatures of no less than eleven members of the Privy Council, with that of the Earl of Ormond, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Numerous scenes of petty tyranny and persecution occurred about tbis period in Galway. Out of the many instances, I shall select a single example, which will sufficiently show the temper of the times. In the year 1715, Robert Blakeny, Mayor of Galway, communicated to the Lords Justices that he had " turned all the Papists out of the town, except about twenty merchants, from whom I took security." (Original letter). Now, it was evident that those were not the times whereas to expect, nor were such the men to grant, the fulfilment of the old Corporation "Common Scale" passed on behalf of the Augustinian Friars. But happily those days are passed, other times have arrived, and other men have arisen, from whom that act of justice may be reasonably anticipated.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 14

Origin of the name Galway from the river Galvia

Galway · city · Galway

Multiple antiquarian authorities including O'Flaherty, Ware, and Lynch derive the name Galway from 'Galvia' or 'Gaillimh,' the old name of the river upon which the city stands. Alternative theories connect it to 'galmhaith' (a rocky, barren country) or 'Port-na-gall' (harbour of strangers).

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A few words may not be inappropriately here, by way way of introduction, concerning the origin of the word " Gal way \ — a word so familiar to all of us, associated with the historic name of our county and of its chief town. It may be taken for granted that the town gave its name to the county, being of more ancient origin and relative importance. But whence the town derived its name is not exactly determined. The preponderance of belief seems to point to the fact that Galway is derived from the word " Gal via," which was the old name of the river upon which the city stands. A view of the various authorities and opinions upon the subject is not uninteresting. Thus Valiancy had two most ingenious theories explaining its derivation, ascribing it in one case to the Gaelic word " galmhaith" (a rocky, barren country) and in another instance he deduces it from Port-na-gall, or the harbour of strangers or merchants, as he held Gallia to mean a merchant, as it certainly does mean a stranger, and commerce in those days was associated with foreigners. O'Flaherty in his quaint ' Ogygia,' ascribes it to the name of the river. Ware also mentions the river Galvia as giving the name to the town, and he says that in the annals of Eoscommon from 1177-1190 it is so-called. Old Geoffry Fitz-Dominick Lynch, writing in 1661, agrees with this view, while De Burgo writes that Gaillimh means the residence of the English. It may fairly be concluded that such was its origin as applied to the town, and little doubt as to the extension of the meaning to the county, As a passing proof of the antiquity of the place, we may here incidentally mention that Ptolemy refers to and marks the bay of Galway on his wonderful map, calling it Ausoba.
ITS IMPORTANCE IN THE PAST THE OLD FAMILIES.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav

Protestant petition for St. Augustine's cemetery

Forthill · site · Donegal · 1551

In 1551, the Protestant party petitioned the King to grant them the cemetery attached to St. Augustine's monastery for augmentation of divine worship. The King granted the petition, but the far more numerous Catholic party refused to recognise anyone but the Augustinian Friars as rightful owners.

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Towards the middle of the 16th century, most likely about the year 1538, it was, together with a large portion of the lands attached to the Augustinian monastery, seized and confiscated by order of Henry VIII. The deed of confiscation did not, however, forbid its use as a cemetery, and for many years afterwards the Catholic population had free access to it for the purpose of burying their dead. In 1551, however, the Protestant party presented a memorial to the King asking that the cemetery attached to St. Augustine's monastery be granted to them for the augmentation of divine worship, and the more ample support of the warden and vicars. Although the King granted the petition, still the Catholic party, which was by far the more numerous, insisted on their rights, and refused to regard any others than the Augustinian Friars as the rightful owners.
A worse fate still awaited St. Augustine's cemetery, or the Abbey Hill as it was then called, and the awful crime of desecration was to be added to that of unlawful confiscation. In the year 1600 the Lord Deputy of Galway, fearing an invasion by the Spaniards, and recognising the advantageous position afforded by the hill on which the cemetery stood, ordered the graves to be levelled, the tombstones to be removed or buried beneath the soil — in a word, the cemetery to be completely effaced, and a fort

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 3

Spaniards murdered near St. Augustine's Abbey (1589)

Galway · city · Galway · 1589

In 1589 Spaniards were brutally murdered near St. Augustine's monastery by order of the lord deputy. Augustinian friars attended them in their last moments, exhorting them to face death bravely.

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Though hunted from their homestead, the sons of Augustine did not wander far. They remained within the walls of the town, ever looking with anxious eyes towards the deserted abbey on the hill, and awaiting only a lull in the storm to regain possession of their church. In the year 1551 the abbey, which had probably remained unoccupied and deserted for five or six years, was by order of Edward VI. handed over to the partisans of the king and his religion. How long it remained in the hands of such, it is difficult to say, but the probability is that after a few years, owing to a change in public feeling, it again reverted to its rightful owners, and was held by them until about the year 1570, when it was again confiscated and part of the lands made over to the Corporation. Whether it was again occupied by the friars during the 15th century it is not easy to say, but it is not at all improbable that it was, for we are told that the Spaniards who by order of the lord deputy were brutally murdered near St. Augustine's monastery in the year 1589, were attended in their last moments by the Augustinian friars, who exhorted them to meet the death struggle bravely.
Before the close of the 15th century one of the most famous events in connection with this abbey took place. In the year 1596 it was occupied by Red Hugh O'Donnell and his forces, and used by him as a fort from which to batter the town. In page 96 of Hardiman is the following account : — " O'Donnell then assembled his forces on Port-hill, then called the Abbey-hill ; but as soon as they approached the side next the town, the great cannon was brought to bear on tb.3m from the walls, and they quickly retreated. An armed party then sallied forth from the great gate,

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 6

Augustinians shelter on Market Street

Market Street · street · Galway · 1652

Following the destruction of their monastery in 1652, the Augustinian friars sought refuge in a house on Market Street, then known as North Street, in Galway. They were later forced out by the arrival of Cromwell and lived without a fixed abode for 33 years.

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On the destruction of their church and monastery in the year 1652, the hermits of St. Augustine sought shelter within the walls of the town, and for a short time occupied unmolested a house in Market-street, or as it was then called North-street. On the advent of Cromwell, they were compelled to leave this resisidence and seek more obscure quarters. No longer had they any fixed place of abode, and for 33 years lived where they could, and as best they could. Many were their privations during all this time, but amidst all their sufferings they were buoyed up by the hope that the time was not far distant when their wrongs would be righted, and they would find themselves in possession of the church and monastery promised them by the Corporation of 1645.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 10

Destruction of the Abbey of St. Augustine

Galway · city · Galway · 1652

The Abbey of St. Augustine in Galway, originally founded by Margaret Athy, was deliberately levelled to the ground. This extreme measure was taken to protect the town from an approaching army that had already devastated the surrounding county.

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had devastated the county round, and his army was approaching the walls of Galway. No time was now to be lost, the safety of the town was at stake, and so in the interest of the people of Galway, the venerable Abbey of St. Augustine, founded 144 years before by Margaret Athy, was levelled to the ground. It was indeed a sad day for the Augustinian friars and people of Galway, and whilst they weep over the ruins of that venerable pile, we too must let the curtain drop on its history, for the last chapter in that interesting story has been told.
[ 18 J

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 9

Galway's violated treaty: Augustinians expelled after 1691

Galway · city · Galway · 1691

After the surrender of Galway in 1691, the treaty's 10th article guaranteed Roman Catholic clergy the private exercise of their religion, but this was violated under William III. The Augustinians and other friars were driven from their dwellings and churches, branded as outlaws, and forced to hide in cellars or cabins in obscure parts of the town.

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still he was overcome by party spirit, and again promulgated against the Catholics, and especially the Friars, all the heartless edicts of former reigns. Once again the Augustinians, as well as the other friars, were driven from their dwellings, deprived of their churches, branded as outlaws, and compelled to hide in cellars or cabins in the more obscure parts of the town. How severe were the measures taken during this reign of Galway 's " Violated
22 THE GAILLIV.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 11

St. Augustine's Abbey finally demolished in 1652

Galway · city · Galway · 1652

Despite the 1645 agreement, the Corporation of Galway hesitated for seven years to destroy the handsome abbey, which was an ornament to the whole country. In 1652, under Cromwell, the abbey was finally demolished.

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Though this document was drawn up and signed in the year 1645, still the Abhey of St. Augustine was not immediately levelled, and for seven years from that date continued in the possession of the Friars. It seemed such a pity to destroy a building which was not only handsome in itself, but an ornament to the whole country, that the Corporation hesitated to take the final step, and postponed the destruction from year to year. At last, however, in the year 1652 the fatal hour came. Cromwell

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 8

As the companion tells it

Coming up now through Galway, where St. Augustine's Abbey stood until 1652. An agreement had been drawn up and signed back in 1645 to level the abbey, but the Corporation hesitated. For seven years the Friars stayed on. It seemed such a pity to destroy a building which was not only handsome in itself, but an ornament to the whole country. They postponed the destruction from year to year. At last, however, in 1652 the fatal hour came. Cromwell's men finished the job.

Confiscation of abbey possessions granted to Sir George Garew

Galway · city · Galway · 1603

In 1603, all remaining possessions of St. Augustine's Abbey were confiscated and granted in perpetuity to Sir George Garew. The deed of confiscation was originally signed by Elizabeth but not executed until 11 February 1603 under James I.

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Up to the year 1603 the friars, though deprived of the church, monastery, and a large part of their property, still continued in possession of some land. In the above year, however, another confiscation took place, and this time all the possessions of the abbey were granted to Sir George Garew, knt., his heirs and assigns, for ever. The deed of confiscation, the original of which is at present in possession of the Augustinian Fathers, was drawn up in the reign of Elizabeth and signed by her, but was not formally put into execution until the 11th of February, 1603, when James I. had ascended the throne.
On the surrender of the fort in 1643, the Abbey was again restored to the Augustinian Friars, who innovated, and again prepared it, for the purpose for which it was originally founded — the worship of God. It was indeed a joyful day when once again the bell rang out, its doors were opened to the public, and the Holy Sacrifice was offered once more within its hallowed walls. But this peace and joy were hut the calm that precedes the storm. Dark and evil days were again drawing near, and the persecuted sons of Augustine were destined before long to witness the destruction of their handsome church. The position it occupied inspired the Supreme Council with tear lest once again it might be used by an enemy as a vantage ground from which to attack the town, and so command after command was issued to the Corporation to see that it was immediately demolished. The Corporation, however, refused to carry out this order until such time as they received the consent of the Prior and community. They had not to wait long, tor as scum as the friars recognised their church was really ;i source of danger, they at once and willingly consented to its demolition, provided that the Corpora-

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 7

Dr. Lynch, Archbishop of Tuam, bequeaths to Galway students

Tuam · town · Galway · 1715

Dr. Lynch, Archbishop of Tuam, died in France in 1715, bequeathing £25 a year towards the support of Galway students in Paris. His bust was seen in St. Paul's Church and a full-length portrait in the Irish College in Paris.

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" A.D. 1608. At this period there was a famous school containing 1200 (twelve hundred) scholars kept in Galway by Alexander Lynch. This Lynch was a famous scholar, but his son, the illustrious author of the ' Cambrensis Eversus,' made a name that will live long in our history. He was Archbishop of Tuam, and died in France in 1715, bequeathing £25 a year towards the support of Galway students in Paris, where his bust was seen (according to a writer fifty years ago) in St. Paul's Church, and also a full-length portrait in the Irish College, painted in the old style, and representing the prelate with a long flowing beard, as was then the custom. Dr. Lynch was educated in Galway, and along with him in those years were other distinguished men in their varied walks of life, the most noted being MacFirbis, the antiquary of Lecane in this county, and also O'Flaherty, the author of the ' Ogygia.' At the ancient school of St. Nicholas were educated these men, and also Patrick D'Arcy, a celebrated lawyer, Dr. Kirwan, Bishop of Killala, Peter Trench and others. Dr. Lynch and O'Flaherty had frequent correspondence together, and one of the letters is dated ' Ex Armorica Galviensi, 18 September. Sabbato 4 Temporum, 1665.'"
A CURIOUS OLD DOCUMENT A MORTGAGE OF THE SERVICE OF A

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 40

Galway courthouse granted to Augustinians for Mass, 1687

Galway · city · Galway · 1686–1687

In 1687 the Grand Jury of County Galway permitted the Augustinian community to use the newly built session-house in Galway for celebrating Mass and other Divine services during the vacancy of assizes and sessions. This arrangement continued through the reign of James II and possibly briefly under William III.

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community and the Corporation in the year 1645. Their claim was at once acknowledged, and until such time as more suitable accommodation could be provided, they were given the use of the courthouse for Divine service. The following is an exact copy of the document by which this singular concession was made : — ;' That a session-house was, in anno 1686, built in Galway for ye use of ye County Galway, at ye charge of ye representative freeholders and inhabitants of ye said county. That in the month of April last, 1687, ye general assizes for ye said county was kept in ye said house, and then ye Grand Jury of ye said county, for divers reasons, have seriously considered that noe better use nor so good a use could be made of ye said house, for the preservation thereof, in ye vacancy of assizes and sessions, than to permit ye community of ye Order of St. Augustine in Galway to make use thereof (in time of vacancy as aforesaid) for celebrating Mass and performing other Divine services therein ; and in order thereunto, ye said Grand Jury, after that assizes break up, delivered ye said house to ye said community, and with this present assizes, held for ye said county ye 18th day of this month of August, 1687, ye said community made use thereof for celebrating Mass and performing other Divine services therein."
All during the reign of James II., and most likely for a year or two after the accession of William III. the Augustinian Fathers remained in possession of the courthouse, and continued to use it for the purposes for which it was granted them by the Grand Jury, until at length jealousy, or rather hatred, deprived them of their privilege. The Protestant party could not endure to see them exercise their religion, even in private, and adopted every means to have them once more reduced to the state of abject misery which for more than a century had been their lot. However unwilling the king might have been to violate the 10th article, granted on the surrender of the town in 1691, and which stated

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 11

Mountjoy destroys cemetery and builds fort on Forthill

Forthill · site · Donegal · 1600

In 1600, Lord Deputy Mountjoy, fearing a Spanish invasion, ordered the graves levelled and tombstones removed or buried, completely effacing the cemetery to erect a fort on the hill. The fort commanded the town and harbour and became one of the most considerable fortifications in the kingdom.

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A worse fate still awaited St. Augustine's cemetery, or the Abbey Hill as it was then called, and the awful crime of desecration was to be added to that of unlawful confiscation. In the year 1600 the Lord Deputy of Galway, fearing an invasion by the Spaniards, and recognising the advantageous position afforded by the hill on which the cemetery stood, ordered the graves to be levelled, the tombstones to be removed or buried beneath the soil — in a word, the cemetery to be completely effaced, and a fort
b THE GAILLIV.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 3

St. Augustine's Abbey handed to king's partisans (1551)

Galway · city · Galway · 1551

In 1551 the abbey, which had lain unoccupied and deserted for five or six years, was by order of Edward VI handed over to partisans of the king and his religion. It probably reverted to the friars after a few years due to a change in public feeling.

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Though hunted from their homestead, the sons of Augustine did not wander far. They remained within the walls of the town, ever looking with anxious eyes towards the deserted abbey on the hill, and awaiting only a lull in the storm to regain possession of their church. In the year 1551 the abbey, which had probably remained unoccupied and deserted for five or six years, was by order of Edward VI. handed over to the partisans of the king and his religion. How long it remained in the hands of such, it is difficult to say, but the probability is that after a few years, owing to a change in public feeling, it again reverted to its rightful owners, and was held by them until about the year 1570, when it was again confiscated and part of the lands made over to the Corporation. Whether it was again occupied by the friars during the 15th century it is not easy to say, but it is not at all improbable that it was, for we are told that the Spaniards who by order of the lord deputy were brutally murdered near St. Augustine's monastery in the year 1589, were attended in their last moments by the Augustinian friars, who exhorted them to meet the death struggle bravely.
Before the close of the 15th century one of the most famous events in connection with this abbey took place. In the year 1596 it was occupied by Red Hugh O'Donnell and his forces, and used by him as a fort from which to batter the town. In page 96 of Hardiman is the following account : — " O'Donnell then assembled his forces on Port-hill, then called the Abbey-hill ; but as soon as they approached the side next the town, the great cannon was brought to bear on tb.3m from the walls, and they quickly retreated. An armed party then sallied forth from the great gate,

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 6

Temperance Buildings on Lombard Street lent for Bazaar

Lombard Street · street · Galway · 1901

The Very Rev. P. Dooley and the Temperance Society Committee lent the Temperance Buildings on Lombard Street in Galway to the Augustinian Fathers for a grand bazaar in August 1901. The bazaar was held to raise funds to clear the heavy debt on St. Augustine's Church.

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At the next meeting of the committee, which took place on the following Thursday, the following appeal, drafted by a subcommittee, was read, approved of, and ordered to be printed for publication : — " Aill-Aonach Cibhistin ! Grand Bazaar, Fancy Fair, and Drawing of Prizes, in aid of St. Augustine's Church, Gal way. Bazaar Committee Rooms, St. Augustine's Convent, St. Augustine Street, Galway, Ireland, February, 1901. An Urgent Appeal.— The Augustinian Fathers in this ancient city, however reluctantly, are obliged to appeal, and not without every hope of success, to their generous friends, both at home and abroad, and the public generally, to come to their assistance and enable them to pay off the heavy debt at present due on their Church. Some three years ago it became absolutely necessary that the interior of the sacred building should be re-decorated, and this necessary and important work was carried out in manner that won the admiration of all. But although the work has been satisfactorily completed, still it was not without incurring havy liabilities, a large portion of which still remains due. This, however, is not all, for recently much damage has been done to the beautiful decorations owing to the many inroads made by the rain, both in the roof and walls of the sacred edifice. To have this matter remedied, and to save from further dilapidation and destruction the roof, walls, and decorations, the entire building has been carefully examined, and it has been found that that the roof is in a deplorable condition. Even the stone work, crumbling by the action of the weather, is now absorbing both rain and moisture. Under these circumstances, the Fathers had no option but to enter into a large contract for the renovation of the roof of the Church, and the re-pointing of the walls in many places. Thus has an already heavy debt been more than doubled. This is the condition in which the Augustinian Fathers now find themselves, and they have only to rely on your generosity, and considering how few have been their appeals, they feel confident of your hearty support in this, their first Bazaar, which, by kind permission of his Lordship the Bishop, is to be held in August next at the Temperance Buildings, Lombard Street, which have heen kindly lent by the Very Rev. P. Dooley, P.P., and the Committee of the Temperance Sobiety. The Augustinian Fathers, now established nearly 700 years in Galway, would not be compelled to make this public appeal for funds, such as they now require, had not their vast pro-

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 48

As the companion tells it

Along here on Lombard Street stand the Temperance Buildings, lent out in 1901 for a grand bazaar that the Augustinian Fathers held to clear the debt on St. Augustine's Church. The trouble had begun some three years before, when the interior of the church had to be re-decorated. That work was done and won admiration, but it left heavy liabilities, a large portion still unpaid. Then rain made matters worse. It got in through the roof and walls and damaged the new decorations. The entire building was examined, and the roof was found to be in a deplorable condition. Even the stonework was crumbling, absorbing rain and moisture. The Fathers had no option but to take on a large contract to renovate the roof and re-point the walls in many places. That more than doubled an already heavy debt. In February 1901, a subcommittee drafted an appeal. It was read and approved at a meeting on a Thursday and ordered printed for publication. The appeal was sent to friends at home and abroad and the public generally. The Fathers noted that they had been established nearly 700 years in Galway and that they had made few appeals before. This was their first bazaar. By permission of his Lordship the Bishop, it was to be held in August at the Temperance Buildings, Lombard Street, which had been kindly lent by the Very Rev. P. Dooley, P.P., and the Committee of the Temperance Society.

The Claddagh resembles early Galway in size and appearance

Claddagh · electoral division · Galway

The Claddagh of the present day is said to closely resemble the early settlement of Galway in both size and appearance, harking back to the days of the legendary founder Gaillimh.

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The Claddagh of to-day cannot be very unlike, either in size or appearance, what Galway was in the days of its ill-fated sponsor, Gaillimh ; but, as the centuries rolled by, this little seaport grew into a busy, thriving city as far beyond the Galway of to-day as is the Galway of to-day beyond the little town of the days of Breasail — a city which, in commercial importance, yielded the palm to no other port throughout the length and breadth of Ireland, or even England, if we except the one solitary port of the metropolis.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Claddagh, in Galway. The Claddagh of today cannot be very unlike, either in size or appearance, what Galway was in the days of its ill-fated sponsor, Gaillimh. As the centuries rolled by, this little seaport grew into a busy, thriving city, as far beyond the Galway of today as the Galway of today is beyond the little town of the days of Breasail. It became a city which, in commercial importance, yielded the palm to no other port throughout the length and breadth of Ireland, or even England, if we except the one solitary port of the metropolis.

St. Augustine's Abbey re-confiscated and lands given to Corporation (c.1570)

Galway · city · Galway · 1570

Around 1570 the abbey was again confiscated, with part of its lands made over to the Corporation of Galway. It is uncertain whether the friars reoccupied it afterwards.

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Though hunted from their homestead, the sons of Augustine did not wander far. They remained within the walls of the town, ever looking with anxious eyes towards the deserted abbey on the hill, and awaiting only a lull in the storm to regain possession of their church. In the year 1551 the abbey, which had probably remained unoccupied and deserted for five or six years, was by order of Edward VI. handed over to the partisans of the king and his religion. How long it remained in the hands of such, it is difficult to say, but the probability is that after a few years, owing to a change in public feeling, it again reverted to its rightful owners, and was held by them until about the year 1570, when it was again confiscated and part of the lands made over to the Corporation. Whether it was again occupied by the friars during the 15th century it is not easy to say, but it is not at all improbable that it was, for we are told that the Spaniards who by order of the lord deputy were brutally murdered near St. Augustine's monastery in the year 1589, were attended in their last moments by the Augustinian friars, who exhorted them to meet the death struggle bravely.
Before the close of the 15th century one of the most famous events in connection with this abbey took place. In the year 1596 it was occupied by Red Hugh O'Donnell and his forces, and used by him as a fort from which to batter the town. In page 96 of Hardiman is the following account : — " O'Donnell then assembled his forces on Port-hill, then called the Abbey-hill ; but as soon as they approached the side next the town, the great cannon was brought to bear on tb.3m from the walls, and they quickly retreated. An armed party then sallied forth from the great gate,

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 6

1645 agreement to demolish abbey church and rebuild within town walls

Galway · city · Galway · 1645

In 1645, the Prior and Convent of St. Augustine consented to the demolition of their church on Abbey Hill because its position was deemed dangerous to the town. The Corporation of Galway agreed to build a replacement church within the town walls at its own expense.

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tion erected another for them within the walls of the town. To this the Corporation readily agreed, and in the year 1645 the following document — the original of which may be seen at the Augustinian convent — was drawn up, sealed and signed by the Mayor and Corporation for the time being : —
"Anno Domini 1645.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 7

Agreement to demolish St. Augustine's Abbey, Galway (1645)

Galway · city · Galway · 1645

In 1645, the Prior and Convent of St. Augustine granted the Corporation of Galway license to demolish the abbey church and steeple and remove all materials. In return, the Corporation agreed to pay forty pounds and to build a new abbey on common land at Cloongarry once peace was settled in the kingdom.

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Augustine iu Galway on the other part ; Witnesseth, that the said Prior and Convent have of their own free will, for the consideration of the aforesaid, given and granted to the said Mayor, Sheriffs, Free Burgesses, and Commonality full, free, and absolute license, power and authority to demolish and take down the said church and steeple thereof ; and to take away and convert to whatever use they shall think fitting all the stone, timber, and slate of the said church, without any let, hinderance, or interruption to be given to them by the said Prior and Convent, or any other in their behalf, in consideration thereof, the said Mayor, Sheriffs, Free Burgesses, and Commonality have covenanted, granted, and agreed to do as by these presents they do covenant, grant, and agree for themselves and their successors, to and with the said Prior and Convent and their successors, to and with all others their superiors, enabled to take and provide any lands or tenaments in mortmain for the use of, or in trust for, the said Prior and Convent ; that they shall convey and pass to the Prior and Convent of St. Augustine that then shall be in Galway, as soon as peace shall be settled in this kingdom, at the reasonable request of the said Prior and Convent of St. Augustine's, that then shall be, by such assurance in land as the learned Council of the Prior and Convent, that then shall be, shall be devised or advised : one plot or parcel of ground to build an abbey upon, being a parcel of the common land of Cloongarry, in length east from the
highway or that goeth over to the fort, and to the end of the

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 8

St. Augustine's Abbey church built by Fitzstephen Lynch Fitzdominick and Margaret Athy

Galway · city · Galway

According to the 1645 agreement document, the church commonly called St. Augustine's Abbey was built by Fitzstephen Lynch Fitzdominick and his wife Margaret Athy on the site where the fort of Galway later stood.

Read the passage

" Whereas the Prior and Convent of the Order of St. Augustine's in Galvvay had their church, commonly called St. Augustine's Abbey, built by one Fitzstephen Lynch Fitzdominick and his wife, Margaret Athy, as we are informed by the said Prior and Convent, upon the place where lately his fort stood, commonly called St. Augustine's fort, or the fort of Galway, and that since the schism the said church was taken from them, and the said fort built about it, and itself turned into a magazine and dwelling chambers ; and whereas the said fort was taken, since the troubles, by the Confederate Catholics of Ireland, and by them demolished, and that by an act of the general assembly of the said Confederate Catholics the site, circuit, and ground of all the mendicant abbeys that were, or should be by them restored, should be restored to the proprietors of the same. And Whereas the Supreme Council have found the said church, by reason of the situation of it, to stand dangerous for the town in any time of seige, much threatened by the schismaticks, by reiterated commands did direct the demolishing of it, which the Corporation of Galway, out of their piety and devotion, did forbear to put in execution, until the Prior and Convent of St. Augustine, residing in Galway, had consented thereunto ; wherein they being moved, and being made acquainted with the destruction that might come to the town if it had been seized by the enemy, have freely and voluntarily consented to the demolition of said church, upon condition that the said Corporation of Galway should forthwith assign and let out a place for the said Prior and Convent to build an abbey in, and that when the time serves, and that peace shall be established in this kingdom, the said Corporation shall obtain a licence to allow the ground so laid out in mortmain, for the use and benefit of the said Prior and Convent, and upon further condition, that the said Corporation should, at their own proper cost and charges, build with hewn stone, for the Prior and Convent of St. Augustine in Galway, that then shall be, in length, height, and breadth, as much as their church now to be demolished containeth, which agreeable to the schedule hereunto annexed, made by admeasure chosen by the said Corporation, and by the Prior and Convent of St. Augustine that now is.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 7

St. Augustine's Abbey Hill converted into a fort

Galway · city · Galway · 1603–1643

In 1603, Abbey Hill in Galway was converted into a fort and used as such for forty years. During this period the abbey chapel served as a store-house and the monastery as quarters for officers.

Read the passage

In the beginning of the 17th century, or in the year 1603, the Abbey-hill, as was stated in the preceding article, was converted into a fort, and for forty years continued to be used as such. During that time the abbey, which stood within the fortifications, was used for military purposes — the chapel being used as a store-house, and the monastery as a dwelling-place for some of the officers.
Up to the year 1603 the friars, though deprived of the church, monastery, and a large part of their property, still continued in possession of some land. In the above year, however, another confiscation took place, and this time all the possessions of the abbey were granted to Sir George Garew, knt., his heirs and assigns, for ever. The deed of confiscation, the original of which is at present in possession of the Augustinian Fathers, was drawn up in the reign of Elizabeth and signed by her, but was not formally put into execution until the 11th of February, 1603, when James I. had ascended the throne.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 7

1396 murage charter begins new epoch for Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1396

The 1396 murage charter marked a new epoch: the King granted license to the provost and burgesses to yearly elect a sovereign, so that merchants would be encouraged to reside in the town for better resisting enemies and rebels. Hitherto the town had been governed by magistrates appointed by the De Burgos.

Read the passage

" This murage charter was afterwards renewed, and on the '20th of October, 1374, a writ issued to the Sheriff of Connaught, to distrain the provest and bailiffs of Galvy, by all their lands and chattels, until they should render an account of the murage and pavage by them levied and renewed, of all saleable commodities coming to the town." — Rot. Man. 48 Edw. III. The next murage charter, that of 1396, cites a much larger list of articles than that of '61, and thus furnishes valuable evidence as to the continued increase of the town in commercial prosperity. The granting of this charter marks the beginning of a new epoch in the history of Galway. Hitherto the town was a corporation by prescription, being governed by magistrates appointed by the De Burgos, but now the King, " so that merchants might be the more induced and encouraged to reside and dwell in the town for the better resisting its enemies and rebels," granted and gave license to the provost and burgesses, their heirs and successors for ever, yearly to elect amongst themselves a sovereign. Many other privileges of minor importance were also included.
Under the new arrangements the prosperity of the town materially increased, and alone among the Irish towns of that era wealth and contentment seem to have been the portion of the Galway people.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 24

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the town's story turns on a charter from 1396. Before that year, it was a corporation by prescription, governed by magistrates appointed by the De Burgos. The 1396 murage charter changed this. The King granted license to the provost and burgesses, their heirs and successors for ever, yearly to elect amongst themselves a sovereign. The King's reason, in his own words, was "so that merchants might be the more induced and encouraged to reside and dwell in the town for the better resisting its enemies and rebels." Many other privileges of minor importance were also included. The charter cited a much larger list of articles than an earlier murage charter, evidence of the town's continued growth in commercial prosperity. Before this, in 1374, a writ had issued to the Sheriff of Connaught to distrain the provost and bailiffs by all their lands and chattels until they should render an account of the murage and pavage they had levied. Under the new arrangements of 1396, the prosperity of the town materially increased. Alone among the Irish towns of that era, wealth and contentment seem to have been the portion of its people. The granting of this charter marks the beginning of a new epoch.

Education at the ancient school of St. Nicholas

Galway · city · Galway

The ancient school of St. Nicholas in Galway educated several distinguished men including Dr. Lynch, MacFirbis, O'Flaherty, Patrick D'Arcy, Dr. Kirwan Bishop of Killala, and Peter Trench. The school made Galway a noted place of learning rivaling Dublin.

Read the passage

" A.D. 1608. At this period there was a famous school containing 1200 (twelve hundred) scholars kept in Galway by Alexander Lynch. This Lynch was a famous scholar, but his son, the illustrious author of the ' Cambrensis Eversus,' made a name that will live long in our history. He was Archbishop of Tuam, and died in France in 1715, bequeathing £25 a year towards the support of Galway students in Paris, where his bust was seen (according to a writer fifty years ago) in St. Paul's Church, and also a full-length portrait in the Irish College, painted in the old style, and representing the prelate with a long flowing beard, as was then the custom. Dr. Lynch was educated in Galway, and along with him in those years were other distinguished men in their varied walks of life, the most noted being MacFirbis, the antiquary of Lecane in this county, and also O'Flaherty, the author of the ' Ogygia.' At the ancient school of St. Nicholas were educated these men, and also Patrick D'Arcy, a celebrated lawyer, Dr. Kirwan, Bishop of Killala, Peter Trench and others. Dr. Lynch and O'Flaherty had frequent correspondence together, and one of the letters is dated ' Ex Armorica Galviensi, 18 September. Sabbato 4 Temporum, 1665.'"
A CURIOUS OLD DOCUMENT A MORTGAGE OF THE SERVICE OF A

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 40

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are moving through what was once a noted place of learning, a city that rivalled Dublin. The ancient school of St. Nicholas stood here, and in 1608 it was famous, holding 1200 scholars under a man named Alexander Lynch. He was a scholar himself, but his son made the deeper mark. That son became Archbishop of Tuam and wrote the 'Cambrensis Eversus'. He died in France in 1715, leaving 25 pounds a year to support Galway students in Paris. Fifty years ago a writer placed his bust in St. Paul's Church there, and a full-length portrait in the Irish College, painted in the old style with a long flowing beard, as was the custom then. He was educated in Galway, and so were others who made names in their own walks. MacFirbis, the antiquary of Lecane in this county, studied here. So did O'Flaherty, who wrote the 'Ogygia.' So did Patrick D'Arcy, a celebrated lawyer, Dr. Kirwan, Bishop of Killala, and Peter Trench. Dr. Lynch and O'Flaherty wrote to each other often. One of their letters is dated, in the words of the source, 'Ex Armorica Galviensi, 18 September. Sabbato 4 Temporum, 1665.'

Galway's 1509 sanitary ordinances

Galway · city · Galway · 1509

In 1509 Galway passed sanitary laws penalising fouling of streets and walls, requiring weekly cleaning before each dwelling, prohibiting dung heaps, and restricting livestock within the town. Swine and goats could not be kept above fourteen days on pain of killing.

Read the passage

In 1509 some sanitary laws, now neglected, were passed: — "That whatever man, woman or child be found fouling the streets or walls, either by night or day, lose 2d. Also every dweller shall make clean before his door once a week, and that no dung heaps be made on the streets under pain of 12d. Whatsoever man or woman have any kine in town, shall keep them in their houses both summer and winter, and if they be found in the streets to pay Id, and no swine or goat to be kept in town above fourteen days on pain of killing."
76 THE GAILLIV.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 37

Licence to remain granted to Augustinian Friar Dominic Martyn of Galway

Galway · city · Galway

An original licence of leave to remain in the kingdom was granted to Dominic Martyn, an elderly Augustinian friar of Galway, who was required to enter into £200 security to keep the peace. The licence bore signatures of eleven Privy Council members and the Earl of Ormond.

Read the passage

The lands and possessions of the Abbey, which were considerable, were soon after confiscated, and the despoiled Brethren were obliged to remove within the walls, where they have ever since continued under many privations. It appears, from the evidence still extant, that they urged their claim on the former Corporation, particularly during the disastrous period of James the Second's visit to Ireland, that it was fully recognised, and would have been honourably satisfied, but for the political changes which soon after took place. The Friars were soon after doomed to undergo unparalleled scenes of persecution, extending to transportation, imprisonment, and even death, in case of return. There now lies before me an original licence of leave to remain in the Kingdom, granted to Dorninick Martyn, an Augustinian Friar of Gal way, who is described in his petition as "a poore olde man of three score and nine years, and full of infirmitie." He was ordered, however, to enter into " good securitie by recognizance" for £200 to keep the peace, &c. And.so important an " act of state" was this licence considered at the time, that it bears the signatures of no less than eleven members of the Privy Council, with that of the Earl of Ormond, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Numerous scenes of petty tyranny and persecution occurred about tbis period in Galway. Out of the many instances, I shall select a single example, which will sufficiently show the temper of the times. In the year 1715, Robert Blakeny, Mayor of Galway, communicated to the Lords Justices that he had " turned all the Papists out of the town, except about twenty merchants, from whom I took security." (Original letter). Now, it was evident that those were not the times whereas to expect, nor were such the men to grant, the fulfilment of the old Corporation "Common Scale" passed on behalf of the Augustinian Friars. But happily those days are passed, other times have arrived, and other men have arisen, from whom that act of justice may be reasonably anticipated.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 14

Port of Galway shipping in 1794

Galway · city · Galway · 1794

In 1794, 74 vessels containing 2,580 tons and manned by 276 seamen were registered as belonging to the port of Galway. The text notes this as an instance of what Galway lost after the Union, suggesting the present number is less than half.

Read the passage

The officers of the Galway corps included the chief County families, as will be seen by the names of the principal, namely, Marcus Blake Lynch, Eobert Martin, Richard Butler, Uhck O'Brien, Power Trench, Edmund Fitzpatrick, Dominick Daly, John Burke, Bowes Egan, Samuel Hanly, John Francis Hutchinson, Henry Blake, James Brown, &c. As an instance of what Galway has lost by the Union, it may be mentioned here that in 1794 there were registered as belonging to the port of Galway 74 vessels containing 2,580 tons, and 276 seamen. It would be easy to compute the number to-day, for we don't believe it is a half of what it was a hundred years ago.
[ 84 ]

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 42

As the companion tells it

Coming through Galway now. In 1794 the port here registered 74 vessels belonging to Galway, carrying 2,580 tons and manned by 276 seamen. The book calls that an instance of what Galway lost after the Union. The writer reckoned the number in his own day was not half what it had been a hundred years before.

Catholic ascendancy in Galway under James II

Galway · city · Galway · 1685

Upon the accession of James II, Catholics in Galway regained power and immediately began to regulate the town and re-establish their clergy. This political shift provided the Augustinian friars an opportunity to claim their long-promised church.

Read the passage

On the accession of James II. a complete revolution took place in Galway, and the Catholics, so long trampled under foot, once more gained an ascendancy, and immediately set to work to regulate the town and re-establish their clergy. It was a favourable opportunity for the Augustinian Friars to obtain their long promised church, and they lost no time in reminding the Grand Jury for the time being of the agreement between their

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 10

Old Augustinian church (1760) demolished for new building

Saint Augustine Street · street · Galway · 1760–1855

The site chosen for the new St. Augustine's Church included ground occupied by an old church erected in 1760, which had to be completely demolished before construction could begin. A temporary chapel was opened in the Convent in St. Augustine Street (Back St.) during the demolition.

Read the passage

The site chosen included the ground on which stood the old Church erected in 1760, and so it became absolutely necessary to have this old building completely demolished before anything else could be done. Hence a temporary chapel having been opened in the Convent in St. Augustine Street (Back St.), the work of demolition was begun, and by August, 1855, all was ready for the actual work of building.
The interesting ceremony of laying the foundation stone took place on August 28th (Feast of St. Augustine), 1855, and was performed by James Hardiman, the great historian of Galway, whose name will be ever dear to the people of this ancient city, and whose memory will ever live in the pages of that excellent and valuable work — Hardiman' s " History of Galway."

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 15

Red Hugh O'Donnell occupies St. Augustine's Abbey as fort (1596)

Galway · city · Galway · 1596

In 1596 Red Hugh O'Donnell occupied the abbey on Port-hill, also called Abbey-hill, and used it as a fort to batter the town of Galway. The town's great cannon was brought to bear on his forces from the walls.

Read the passage

Before the close of the 15th century one of the most famous events in connection with this abbey took place. In the year 1596 it was occupied by Red Hugh O'Donnell and his forces, and used by him as a fort from which to batter the town. In page 96 of Hardiman is the following account : — " O'Donnell then assembled his forces on Port-hill, then called the Abbey-hill ; but as soon as they approached the side next the town, the great cannon was brought to bear on tb.3m from the walls, and they quickly retreated. An armed party then sallied forth from the great gate,

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 6

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, there is an old abbey on Port-hill, also called Abbey-hill. In 1596 Red Hugh O'Donnell occupied that abbey and used it as a fort to batter the town. Hardiman gives this account. O'Donnell assembled his forces on the hill, but as soon as they approached the side next the town, the great cannon was brought to bear on them from the walls, and they quickly retreated. An armed party then sallied forth from the great gate.

Red Hugh O'Donnell assembles at Galway Abbey, 1596

Galway · city · Galway · 1596

In 1596 Red Hugh O'Donnell, with MacWilliam De Burgo and other Irish leaders in rebellion against Queen Elizabeth, assembled at the Abbey of St. Augustine and summoned the town of Galway. They were successfully resisted and soon retired.

Read the passage

Sir, — Permit rne through the medium of your valuable paper to congratulate our fellow-townsmen on the announcement lately made by the Venerable Brethren of St. Augustine of their intention to erect an ample church on the site of their present confined chapel. Prom our knowledge of the piety and zeal of those excellent divines, we may rest assured that the proposed work will be at once an honour to religion and an ornament to our town. The principal object, however, of this communication is to direct attention to a letter which appeared in your columns signed " An Old Residentor," and to corroborate from original documents the statement made in that letter — that, upon the invasion of Cromwell, the Friars were solicited by the existing Corporation to level the convent at Porthill, with a promise that a convent and church would be built for them at the expense of the town. It is well known to most of your local readers, and particularly to all our " Old Residentors," that the ancient Abbey of St. Augustine stood in an elevated and picturesque situation on the rising ground south of the town, and it appears, as delineated on the well-known old map of Galway, to have been a spacious and beautiful Gothic structure, crowning our magnificent bay, and conspicuously ornamental to the country. We learn from Irish History that in the year 1596 the celebrated Irish Chieftain, Red Hugh O'Donnell, with MacWilliam De Burgo and other Irish leaders in rebellion against Queen Elizabeth, assembled in this Abbey and summoned the town, but having been successfully resisted, they were soon after obliged to retire. This occurrence, however, gave rise to apprehensions among the citizens that the Abbey, from its commanding position, might, on some future occasion, prove dangerous in the hands of an enemy. Accordingly, during the memorable struggles of the succeeding century, its demolition was finally determined on, and a "Common Seal" of the Corporation was passed to the Brethren in the following words : —

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 13

1901 Galway Bazaar to repair St. Augustine's Church

Galway · city · Galway · 1901

In 1901, a grand bazaar was organized in Galway to relieve the Augustinian Fathers of the heavy debt incurred from repairing and decorating St. Augustine's Church. The local community enthusiastically supported the initiative due to the popularity of the religious community.

Read the passage

For years the people had watched the struggle of the Augustinian Fathers in their efforts to keep in a state of fitting repair the noble Temple committed to their care ; they saw and admired the beautiful decorations with which a few years since the interior of the Church was adorned, and knew full well that the necessary work was not carried out without an enormous outlay, and without the community incurring a very heavy debt. And so, ever ready to assist a necessary and deserving charity, the people anxiously awaited the opportunity when they would be enabled to assist a community ever popular in Galway, and remove from its shoulders the heavy debt which weighed it down.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 46

As the companion tells it

Through Galway, in 1901, the people came together to help the Augustinian Fathers. For years they had watched the Fathers struggle to keep St. Augustine's Church in fitting repair. They had admired the beautiful decorations added to the interior a few years before, and they knew the work had cost an enormous sum, leaving the community with a heavy debt. The Augustinians were ever popular in the city, and the people anxiously awaited their chance to help. A grand bazaar was organized that year to relieve the Fathers of that debt, and the community supported it enthusiastically.

Abbey restored to Augustinian Friars after fort surrender

Galway · city · Galway · 1643

Upon the surrender of the fort in 1643, the Abbey was restored to the Augustinian Friars, who renovated it for worship. The bell rang out again and public mass resumed within its walls.

Read the passage

On the surrender of the fort in 1643, the Abbey was again restored to the Augustinian Friars, who innovated, and again prepared it, for the purpose for which it was originally founded — the worship of God. It was indeed a joyful day when once again the bell rang out, its doors were opened to the public, and the Holy Sacrifice was offered once more within its hallowed walls. But this peace and joy were hut the calm that precedes the storm. Dark and evil days were again drawing near, and the persecuted sons of Augustine were destined before long to witness the destruction of their handsome church. The position it occupied inspired the Supreme Council with tear lest once again it might be used by an enemy as a vantage ground from which to attack the town, and so command after command was issued to the Corporation to see that it was immediately demolished. The Corporation, however, refused to carry out this order until such time as they received the consent of the Prior and community. They had not to wait long, tor as scum as the friars recognised their church was really ;i source of danger, they at once and willingly consented to its demolition, provided that the Corpora-
14 THE GAILLIV.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 7

As the companion tells it

Galway is the city ahead of you on the road. In 1643, on the surrender of the fort, the Abbey was restored to the Augustinian Friars, who renovated it again for worship. It was a joyful day when the bell rang out, its doors opened to the public, and mass was offered once more within its walls. But this peace was the calm before the storm. Dark and evil days were drawing near, and the friars were destined to witness the destruction of their church. The position it occupied inspired the Supreme Council with fear lest it might be used by an enemy as a vantage ground from which to attack the town. Command after command was issued to the Corporation to see that it was immediately demolished. The Corporation refused to carry out this order until they received the consent of the Prior and community. They did not have to wait long. As soon as the friars recognised their church was a source of danger, they at once and willingly consented to its demolition, provided that the Corporation would carry out the work.

Ancient Abbey of St. Augustine, Galway

Galway · city · Galway

The ancient Augustinian Abbey stood on elevated ground south of Galway town, depicted on the old map of Galway as a spacious and beautiful Gothic structure overlooking the bay. Its commanding position later led citizens to fear it could be used by enemies against the town.

Read the passage

Sir, — Permit rne through the medium of your valuable paper to congratulate our fellow-townsmen on the announcement lately made by the Venerable Brethren of St. Augustine of their intention to erect an ample church on the site of their present confined chapel. Prom our knowledge of the piety and zeal of those excellent divines, we may rest assured that the proposed work will be at once an honour to religion and an ornament to our town. The principal object, however, of this communication is to direct attention to a letter which appeared in your columns signed " An Old Residentor," and to corroborate from original documents the statement made in that letter — that, upon the invasion of Cromwell, the Friars were solicited by the existing Corporation to level the convent at Porthill, with a promise that a convent and church would be built for them at the expense of the town. It is well known to most of your local readers, and particularly to all our " Old Residentors," that the ancient Abbey of St. Augustine stood in an elevated and picturesque situation on the rising ground south of the town, and it appears, as delineated on the well-known old map of Galway, to have been a spacious and beautiful Gothic structure, crowning our magnificent bay, and conspicuously ornamental to the country. We learn from Irish History that in the year 1596 the celebrated Irish Chieftain, Red Hugh O'Donnell, with MacWilliam De Burgo and other Irish leaders in rebellion against Queen Elizabeth, assembled in this Abbey and summoned the town, but having been successfully resisted, they were soon after obliged to retire. This occurrence, however, gave rise to apprehensions among the citizens that the Abbey, from its commanding position, might, on some future occasion, prove dangerous in the hands of an enemy. Accordingly, during the memorable struggles of the succeeding century, its demolition was finally determined on, and a "Common Seal" of the Corporation was passed to the Brethren in the following words : —

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 13

As the companion tells it

Coming through Galway, you're passing near where the ancient Abbey of Saint Augustine once stood, on elevated and picturesque ground south of the town. The old map of Galway shows it as a spacious and beautiful Gothic structure, crowning the bay and conspicuously ornamental to the country around it. In 1596, Red Hugh O'Donnell, with MacWilliam De Burgo and other Irish leaders in rebellion against Queen Elizabeth, assembled in this Abbey and summoned the town. They were successfully resisted and soon after obliged to retire. But the event gave rise to apprehensions among the citizens that the Abbey, from its commanding position, might on some future occasion prove dangerous in the hands of an enemy. That fear shaped what came next. During the memorable struggles of the succeeding century, its demolition was finally determined on. When Cromwell invaded, the existing Corporation solicited the Friars to level the convent at Porthill. With a promise that a convent and church would be built for them at the expense of the town, a Common Seal of the Corporation was passed to the Brethren. The statement was corroborated from original documents. Centuries later, the Venerable Brethren of Saint Augustine announced their intention to erect an ample church on the site of their present confined chapel, a work that would be an honour to religion and an ornament to the town.

Great fire of Galway, 1500

Galway · city · Galway · 1500

A serious conflagration destroyed much of Galway town in 1500. On the ashes of the burned town, the splendid mansions of the Galway merchant families slowly arose, whose mournful remains still bore testimony to their former magnificence.

Read the passage

Another serious conflagration occurred in 1500, but to the present generation this is scarcely a matter of regret, as on the ashes of the burned town the splendid mansions of the Galway families slowly arose. Their mournful remains at the present day bear a mute testimony no less to their quondam magnificence than to the taste and refinement of their owners.
Nothing of great moment to Galway occurred during the next few decades. Several of the Western chieftains rose in 1504 and, after a sudden and unexpected investment, took possession of the town. They were, however, routed with great slaughter a few days afterwards by Gerald, Earl of Kildare. The commercial disputes of this period with Limerick are of interest, but not of

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 28

As the companion tells it

Coming through Galway now. In 1500 a serious fire swept through the town and destroyed much of it. On the ashes of the burned town, the splendid mansions of the Galway merchant families slowly arose. Their mournful remains still bear testimony to their former magnificence and to the taste and refinement of their owners. Not much of great moment happened over the next few decades. In 1504 several of the Western chieftains rose and, after a sudden and unexpected investment, took possession of the town. They were routed with great slaughter a few days afterwards by Gerald, Earl of Kildare. The commercial disputes of this period with Limerick are of interest but not of lasting importance.

Stained glass window and interior decorations added

Saint Augustine Street · street · Galway · 1892–1898

In 1892 a splendid stained glass window was erected in St. Augustine's Church, and in 1898 the interior was embellished with decorations. By the time of writing, these decorations were being destroyed due to the ruinous condition of the roof.

Read the passage

Since the opening ceremony 42 years have passed away, and but little change has taken place in the Church of St. Augustine. In 1892 a splendid stained glass window was erected, and in 1898 the interior was embellished with the beautiful decorations which are now being destroyed owing to the ruinous condition of the roof. With these exceptions alone, very little more has been done, and so the Church stands to-day as it stood for the last 42 years, without

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

Along here on Saint Augustine Street stands St. Augustine's Church. Since its opening ceremony 42 years had passed with little change. In 1892 a splendid stained glass window was erected in the church, and in 1898 the interior was embellished with beautiful decorations. Those decorations were being destroyed by the time of writing, owing to the ruinous condition of the roof. Apart from these additions, the church stood as it had for 42 years.

Tribes families settle in Galway

Galway · city · Galway

Seven of the thirteen tribal families—Blake, Bodkin, Ffont, Joyes, Lynch, Martin, and Skerrett—settled in Galway early on, followed later by Athy, Browne, D'Arcy, Ffrench, Kirwan, and Morris. These families gave Galway its title as the City of the Tribes.

Read the passage

was fortified against the attacks of the neighbouring Irish chiefs, it gradually rose to a position of extraordinary commercial importance. About this time the families of Blake, Bodkin, Ffont, Joyes, Lynch, Martin, and Skerrett settled in the Town. These were seven of the thirteen families from which Gal way derives the title of the City of the Tribes. The other six, who came somewhat later, are Athy, Browne, D'Arcy, Ffrench, Kirwan, and Morris.
Ireland in 1315 was invaded by Edward Bruce. Fedhlim of Connacht after some time declared for him, but signally failed to capture the town of Galway. Emboldened by their success, the townspeople sent forth their trained bands under Sir William Leigh de Burgh, to give him battle. The engagement which followed at Athenry is said to be the most sanguinary recorded in the history of the town. Fedhlim fell with 8,000 of his men. This defeat gave the De Burgos the complete control of the whole province from the Shannon to the sea, and making Galway the seat of their government, its importance was still further increased. Freed from the possibility of a serious war with their jealous neighbours, the inhabitants devoted themselves to the embellishment of the town and the increase of their own personal comfort. Many noble mansions were now erected, and in their midst the noble Church of St. Nicholas of Myra arose in its stately grandeur,

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 23

As the companion tells it

As you come into Galway, you are entering the City of the Tribes. The town was fortified against the attacks of the neighbouring Irish chiefs, and it gradually rose to extraordinary commercial importance. About that time, the families of Blake, Bodkin, Ffont, Joyes, Lynch, Martin, and Skerrett settled in the town. These were seven of the thirteen families from which Galway takes its title. The other six came somewhat later: Athy, Browne, D'Arcy, Ffrench, Kirwan, and Morris. In 1315, Ireland was invaded by Edward Bruce. Fedhlim of Connacht declared for him but signally failed to capture Galway. Emboldened by their success, the townspeople sent their trained bands under Sir William Leigh de Burgh to give him battle. The engagement that followed at Athenry is said to be the most sanguinary recorded in the history of the town. Fedhlim fell with 8,000 of his men. This defeat gave the De Burgos complete control of the whole province from the Shannon to the sea. Making Galway the seat of their government, its importance was still further increased. Freed from the possibility of a serious war with their jealous neighbours, the inhabitants devoted themselves to the embellishment of the town. Many noble mansions were erected, and in their midst the Church of St. Nicholas of Myra arose in stately grandeur.

1473 Galway destroyed by lightning

Galway · city · Galway · 1473

In 1473 the Annals of Lough Ce state that Galway was destroyed by 'tene daith,' i.e., lightning. The Four Masters and other authorities also record this burning, and the rapidity of recovery spoke highly for the wealth and industry of the inhabitants.

Read the passage

town of Gaillmh was burned" ; and in 1473 the same authority states it was destroyed by ' tene daith,' i.e., lightning. For this burning, which seems to have been a very serious one, we have also the authority of the Four Masters and others. The rapidity with which the latter calamity was overcome speaks highly for the wealth and industry of the inhabitants.
From the advent of the first English settlers in Galway to the close of the 13th century, the power of the De Burgos was the very breath of life to the town. Constantly exposed to the harassing attacks of the jealous natives, some military organisation was indispensable to its existence as the seat of an alien people. As its wealth and population increased, however, the absolute authority of these despotic lords proved anything but an unmixed blessing. Not only was the tax they exacted a heavy, not to say an oppressive one, but, as we have seen, they involved the townspeople in all their complications with the Crown, and from the rebellion of the De Burgos in 1333 they were in an almost perpetual state of rebellion.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 24

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Galway, you are passing through a city that has known catastrophe. In 1473, the Annals of Lough Ce record that Galway was destroyed by what the annalist called tene daith, meaning lightning. The Four Masters and other authorities also record this burning, and it seems to have been a very serious one. How the city recovered matters as much as the destruction. The speed with which the inhabitants overcame the calamity speaks highly for their wealth and industry. This was not the first time Galway had burned. The Annals of Lough Ce had already recorded an earlier burning of the town of Gaillmh. From the first English settlers through the close of the 13th century, the power of the De Burgos was central to the town's survival. Constantly exposed to the harassing attacks of the native population, the settlement needed military organisation simply to exist as the seat of an alien people. But as wealth and population grew, the authority of the De Burgo lords proved an unmixed curse. The taxes they exacted were oppressive, and from the rebellion of the De Burgos in 1333, the townspeople were in an almost perpetual state of rebellion.

Abbey of St. Augustine described as Gothic structure with green marble

Forthill · site · Donegal

The Abbey of St. Augustine at Forthill was described by Rev. John Lynch (1668) as having its southern side built of polished green marble. Hardiman noted it as a spacious and beautiful Gothic structure crowning Galway Bay, with a fine prospect of the bay, surrounding mountains, and the three Aran Islands.

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The building must have been a very handsome one indeed, for in a work written by the Eev. John Lynch, in the year 1668, we are told that the southern side was built of polished green marble, whilst Hardiman, speaking on the same subject, says — " It appears" (the monastery of St. Augustine) " as delineated on the well-known map of old Galway, to have been a spacious and beautiful Gothic structure, crowning our magnificent bay, and conspicuously ornamental to the country." Not only was the building a handsome one, but also occupied a magnificent position, commanding, as Hardiman says, " a fine prospect of the bay, the surrounding mountains, and the three distant islands of Arran. Attached to this monastery were large and fertile tracts of land, with which beneficent friends, imitating the example of Margaret A thy, endowed the Augustinian Friars. These lands embraced all for miles to the east, including what are now known as the moorlands, together with those of Eenmore. The larger part of this property belonged to Stephen Lynch Pitz-Dominick, and was by him bestowed on the convent of St. Augustine, as may be seen from the following interesting will : —
" Item — I desire my loving children, after my death, to be kind unto all those for whom they ought, and chiefly to love one another, if need were to death ; and then so doing fco give them my blessing, praying them to take vigilant heed of the honestie of the college and vicars of the same, and also St. Augustine's place on the hill, obtained in my and my wife Margaret by name, with

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 5

Galway Augustinian Abbey founded by Margaret Athy in 1508

Galway · city · Galway · 1508

The Augustinian Abbey in Galway was founded by Margaret Athy in 1508. Rev. Richard Nangle served as its first Prior and was afterwards Archbishop of Tuam. Other notable priors included Fr. Skerrett (1664) and Stephen Lynch (1666).

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V. Rev. Richard Nangle, first Prior of the Abbey, founded by Margaret Athy in 1508, and afterwards Archbishop of Tuam.
V. Rev. Fr. Skerrett, Prior of Galway in 1664.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Galway. The Augustinian Abbey here was founded by Margaret Athy in 1508. Its first Prior was Rev. Richard Nangle, who went on to become Archbishop of Tuam. Later, Fr. Skerrett served as Prior of Galway in 1664.

Galway's rise to commercial pre-eminence as a port

Galway · city · Galway

Galway grew from a small seaport into a thriving city of great commercial importance, surpassing every port in Ireland and England except the metropolis of London.

Read the passage

The Claddagh of to-day cannot be very unlike, either in size or appearance, what Galway was in the days of its ill-fated sponsor, Gaillimh ; but, as the centuries rolled by, this little seaport grew into a busy, thriving city as far beyond the Galway of to-day as is the Galway of to-day beyond the little town of the days of Breasail — a city which, in commercial importance, yielded the palm to no other port throughout the length and breadth of Ireland, or even England, if we except the one solitary port of the metropolis.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

As you come through Galway, you're passing a place that began as a small seaport, not unlike the Claddagh of today. Over the centuries it grew into a busy, thriving city, far beyond anything you see now. In commercial importance, it yielded to no port in all of Ireland, or even England, with one exception: the metropolis of London.

Milling industry and jute factory in Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1845–1879

The milling industry in Galway was very large in the mid-nineteenth century, with wheat imported from all parts of the world. With the advent of roller mills the mills closed one by one. A jute factory established in the seventies paid for a time but eventually closed due to foreign competition and home railway rates.

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A very ambitious effort was made in 1845, largely through the energy of the member for the town, Mr. Orrell Lever, to make the port a really representative one. Improvements were made in the harbour, the channel cleared, a line of steam packets established, and a huge hotel built to meet the expeced demands. The hopes built upon this scheme were soon dashed to the ground, and swift and sure came the fate of their unhappy enterprise. One vessel was burnt across the Atlantic, another ran upon a rock in the bay, rumours of foul play were rife, the Company was swamped, and in a short time nothing was left of the scheme except the great stone building which now dominates Eyre Square. The milling industry at this time was very large, the wheat being imported from all parts of the world and distributed throughout Ireland. However, with the advent of roller mills, and the consequent cheapening of the grinding processes, foreign exporters found it more economical to export the flour than the unground grain, the bulk occupied being scarcely more than one-fourth, and the mills closed one by one. A jute factory was established in the seventies, and paid for a time, but foreign competition and home railway rates proved too much for it, and it was forced to close its doors.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 34

As the companion tells it

Coming through Galway now, a city whose milling trade was once enormous. In 1845 the member for the town, Mr. Orrell Lever, pushed an ambitious scheme to make the port a representative one. The harbour was improved, the channel cleared, a line of steam packets established, and a huge hotel built to meet expected demands. The hopes were dashed quickly. One vessel was burnt across the Atlantic, another ran upon a rock in the bay, rumours of foul play were rife, the Company was swamped, and soon nothing was left except the great stone building which now dominates Eyre Square. The milling industry at this time was very large. Wheat was imported from all parts of the world and distributed throughout Ireland. Then came roller mills, and the consequent cheapening of the grinding processes. Foreign exporters found it more economical to export the flour than the unground grain, the bulk occupied being scarcely more than one-fourth. The mills closed one by one. A jute factory was established in the seventies, and paid for a time, but foreign competition and home railway rates proved too much for it, and it was forced to close its doors.

Oldest surviving monument in Forthill Cemetery

Forthill · site · Donegal · 1745

No monument in Forthill Cemetery predates 1745, as earlier monuments were destroyed or buried beneath fortifications in 1600, and Catholics feared erecting visible monuments during troubled times after the 1643 restoration. The oldest surviving monument was boldly erected by a spirited townsman towards the middle of the 17th century.

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During forty years the fort was occupied by the military, and during that time many were the atrocities committed within its walls. This state of things, however, could not last, and a day of vengeance came at length. The townspeople could no longer endure the abuses and outrages of the defenders or occupiers of the fort, and in the year 1643 took up arms in defence of their religion and liberty. They surrounded the fort, cut off all means of communication by land and sea. and thus depriving the defenders of all supplies, compelled them to surrender and yield up the fort. Captain Willoughby, who defended it, used every means to placate the confederates, but all in vain, and so on the 20th of June, 1643, he signed the articles of surrender, and delivered up one of the most important fortresses in the kingdom, which soon afterwards, by order of the Supreme Council, was completely demolished. The rejoicings in Galway, says Hardiman, "on the surrender and demolition of the fort, were excessive. Public prayers and thanksgiving were offered up for this signal event and happy deliverence from its troublesome and dangerous neighbour." Once again Forthill was restored to its rightful owners. Once again the Augustinian Friars threw open its gates to the faithful, and once again it became the last resting place of the dead. From this time to the present day it suffered no further desecration, and still continues to be used as a cemetery. It may appear strange, and at first sight inexplicable, how it is that a cemetery dating back so far contains no monument more ancient than the year 1745. Yet there is nothing strange in this, and to use the words of the great historian, " it does not, for very obvious reasons, contain any monument of antiquity." In the first place, in the year 1600, when the cemetery was turned into a fort, all the then existing monuments were either destroyed or buried beneath the fortifications. In the next place, shortly after the restoration of the cemetery in the year 1643, troubled times again broke out, and Catholics feared to venture far outside the walls of the town, and when they did so were content to

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 4

Richard Begge and Donnell Oge O'Vollaghan made free, 1500

Galway · city · Galway · 1500

In 1500 Richard Begge was granted freedom of Galway on condition he keep a common inn for victualling and lodging strangers. Donnell Oge O'Vollaghan (O'Nolan), a goldsmith, was also made free on condition he maintain his aged father-in-law Andrew Fallon.

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" In 1496 it was provided that every inhabitant shall have reasonable weapon according to his calling under a penalty of 12d. In 1500 Richard Begge was made free on condition of his keeping a common house or inn for victualling and lodging strangers, and at the request of Andrew Fallon, on behalf of his daughter who is married to Donnell Oge O'Vollaghan (O'Nolan) of this town, goldsmith, and for the better relief of said Andrew, who is old and impotent, the said Donnell made free on condition of maintaining him."
In 1505 a very wholesome law was enacted as follows : — " If any outlandish man or enemy of the inhabitants shall take any them for any discord of words between any brother or neighbour of Galway, so that one neighbour procure for evill will to his neighbour, so be taken as aforesaid, that then he which procureth such taking shall ransom and restore again that person, rendering to him all his loss and damages, and the remainder of the goods to the prince and officers of the time being."

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 37

As the companion tells it

As you come through Galway, this is a city with old rules going back centuries. In 1496, every inhabitant was required to have reasonable weapon according to his calling, under a penalty of 12d. Four years later, in 1500, two men were granted freedom of the city under conditions. Richard Begge was made free on condition of his keeping a common house or inn for victualling and lodging strangers. At the same time, Andrew Fallon made a request on behalf of his daughter, who was married to Donnell Oge O'Vollaghan, also called O'Nolan, a goldsmith of this town. Andrew Fallon was old and impotent, and for his better relief, Donnell was made free on condition of maintaining him. So one man earned his freedom by feeding and lodging strangers, the other by caring for his aged father-in-law.

Two sons treacherously slain at Galway castle

Galway · city · Galway · 1125

In the year 1125, the two sons of Aginceslis un h-Eidhen were slain at the castle of the Gaillimh in treachery. This was among the first violent episodes in a long series of combats centered on the fortress.

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castle of the Gaillimh was erected by the Connaughtmen in the year 1124. It was not long before this castle received its baptism of blood ; for in the year 1125, we learn from the same authority, that the two sons of Aginceslis un h-Eidhen were slain here in treachery. The history of Galway for the five succeeding decades is little more than a series of fierce combats waged about this castle, which was destroyed and rebuilt over and over again. In the year 1161 " Demon ships were seen in the bay of Gaillimh, and they sailing against the wind. The fortress the day following was destroved by fire."* Such an event, however, as the burning of a town was a matter of small moment with the Irish of the twelfth century. The disaster was speedily remedied, and the slight amply repaid for, when another swing of the pendulum of fate put into their hands the means of inflicting a similar blow upon their victorious opponents.
' The year 1171, however, was a year big with fate for Galway and the Irish people, when Eichard, Earl of Strongbow, with 4,000 men landed at Waterford, accompanied by William Fitzandelm De Burgo, whose name throughout the succeeding centuries was so intimately connected with Connaught and the Galway people.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 21

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are moving through ground where a castle once stood that drew blood almost as soon as it was raised. The Connaughtmen built the castle of the Gaillimh in the year 1124, and it was not long before it received what the old book calls its baptism of blood. In 1125, the two sons of Aginceslis un h-Eidhen were slain here in treachery. For the five decades that followed, the history of Galway is little more than a series of fierce combats waged about this castle, which was destroyed and rebuilt over and over again. In 1161, demon ships were seen in the bay of Gaillimh, sailing against the wind. The fortress the day following was destroyed by fire. The burning of a town was a matter of small moment with the Irish of the twelfth century. The disaster was speedily remedied. The year 1171 was a year big with fate for Galway and the Irish people, when Richard, Earl of Strongbow, with 4,000 men landed at Waterford, accompanied by William Fitzandelm De Burgo, whose name throughout the succeeding centuries was so intimately connected with Connaught and the Galway people.

Augustinian Nuns move to Franciscan Convent in Market Street

Market Street · street · Galway

Before its extinction, the community of Augustinian Nuns was compelled to leave their own premises in Middle Street due to its ruinous condition and instead occupied an old Franciscan Convent in Market Street, Galway.

Read the passage

• Note — For years before its extinction, the Community of Augustinian Nuns occupied an old Franciscan Convent in Market Street, being compelled to leave their own place in Middle Street, owing to the ruinous condition into which it had fallen.
36

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 18

As the companion tells it

Along here on Market Street, the Community of Augustinian Nuns occupied an old Franciscan Convent. They had been compelled to leave their own place in Middle Street, owing to the ruinous condition into which it had fallen. This was in the years before the community's extinction.

Bermingham family founds early Augustinian monastery near Forthill

Forthill · site · Donegal · 1200–1225

According to Allemande's authority, early in the 13th century the Bermingham family built a church and monastery for the hermits of St. Augustine near the site of the present Forthill cemetery in Galway. If accurate, this was the first religious house erected in Galway.

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The date of the foundation of the first Augustinian monastery in Galway is a matter which lies open to a great deal of controversy, and which in the absence ot any really authentic documents, it is altogether impossible to fix. It would seem, however, on good authority — that of Allemande — that early in the 13th century, a church and monastery for the hermits of St. Augustine was built by the Bermingham family, near the site of the present Forthill cemetery. If such he the case, and there is good reason to believe that it is, then an Augustinian monastery was the first religious house erected in Galway, and the sons of the great Augustine were the first religious who settled in the old " Citie of the Tribes."
Be this, however, as it may, we know for certain that in the year 1508, on the site of the present Forthill — on the level piece of ground in the upper part of the cemetery — a handsome monastery and church were built for the Augustinian Friars by Margaret Athy, wife of Stephen Lynch Fitz-Dominick Dnhli (who was

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 5

James II removes Catholic disabilities in Galway (1686)

Galway · city · Galway · 1686

In 1686, James II removed disabilities from Catholics, leading to the repair or rebuilding of churches in Galway. Many old families returned to the town and trade began to increase.

Read the passage

On the restoration of Charles II., such of the old inhabitants who were left, and who had suffered so much in his cause, returned to the town, expecting to be instantly reinstated in their properties of which the Cromwellians had robbed them ; but, though an Act was framed to this end, the careless and ungrateful monarch did not trouble to see it enforced. Between the confusion consequent on this state of affairs and the monopolies unjustly acquired by the Corporation, the town, once so opulent, was gradually falling into a state of ruin. A temporary check was given to its downward career when in 1686 the disabilities were removed from the Catholics by James II. Churches were repaired or rebuilt, many of the old families again returned to the Town, and again trade began to increase. This happy state of affairs was but temporary, however, for in 1689, on the deposition of James, the country was once more plunged into the horrors of civil war. Galway was the last of the Irish strongholds to fall, but fall it eventually did after a siege worthy of , the history of its defenders, and to conditions as honourable if not as satisfactory as the most complete victory. Once within the walls of a town, however, treaties did not much disturb the conscience of Ginckle; and Galway shared the unbappy fate of Limerick.
Once again, despite the most solemn pledges of Ginckle, the Catholics were gradually dispossessed of their wealth, their houses, and sometimes even of their lives, and Galway had gone another step in her downward career.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 32

Measurement and description of St. Augustine's Abbey before demolition

Galway · city · Galway · 1645

On the last day of July 1645, the Augustinian Abbey in Galway was measured before demolition. It was 121 feet 8 inches long, 22 feet broad inside, with walls 19 feet high and 4 feet thick, a steeple 60 feet tall, hewn stone exterior, and numerous windows and gates of fine workmanship.

Read the passage

" The said abbey contained one hundred, twenty and one foot, eight inches in length ; twenty-two foot in breadth, between both the walls in the inside ; the body of the wall contained nineteen foot in height, and the side thereof, three foot in the cross ; the walls of both the generals were four foot thick.
" The said abbey had one great gabine or window of four lights in the east ; one great gabine of three lights in the west ; two small gabines of two lights agreed, in the sides ; six small windows of one light agreed ; four small doors of plain work ; two great gates of fine work ; two generals the height of the roof ; three score couples of vant roof, with slates and battlement.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 8

Salthill shore and views of Thomond

Salthill · electoral division · Galway

The rocky shore of Salthill is described as a place to rest and watch the mists rising from the placid sea. From there, one can view the purple hills of Thomond and the grassy headlands to the east.

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How hard it is to realize this pre-eminence now as we walk through the deserted byeways, and note its tottering habitations, its quondam palaces crumbling into an inglorious decay. Here and there, perhaps, a quaintly-gabled house or a solidly-built mansion, rising in lonely dignity, relieves the sad monotony ; but, for the most part, little now remains to tell the story of the past but an occasional piece of quaintly-carved stone set into an incongrous mass of ill-built brickwork or inartistic stucco. And as we study on these — the inscription or family arms almost obliterated by the hand of time— we cannot help the feeling which steals upon us, that it is but the cemetery of a leparted city we are walking through, and that these relics we linger so fondly over are but the tombstones of its departed grandeurs. Later, perchance, when the evening conies, and we rest ourselves on the rocky shore of Salthill, these same stones furnish us with a more pleasing occupation for our fancy, and as we watch the mists rising from the placid sea and wrapping in their grey mantle the purple hills of Thomond, or see in the east the grassy headlands standing in bold relief against a sky of tawny gold, our thoughts fly back through the centuries to the days of the city's greatness. We think how once these quiet shores echoed to the sullen boom of cannon that shook the proud battlements of Galway to their very foundation, and back from these battlements came the angry reply of the city guns, and the defiant shouts of its grim defenders. Too well, alas ! these invading cannons delivered their message of destruction, for scarce a stone now remains to tell its story of gallant defence ; scarce a document survives the exultant vandalism of the sometime successful besiegers. The smoke of their burnings hangs about the history of the city — a cloud of obscurity which the deepest research can never fully dispel.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 20

Forthill Cemetery on site of St. Augustine's Abbey

Forthill · site · Donegal · 1500

Forthill Cemetery sits on an eminence south of Galway city overlooking Galway Bay, on the site of the ancient Church of St. Augustine. The old church existed by at least 1500 A.D. and its buried foundations give Forthill its chief historic value.

Read the passage

found in its connection with the past. Throughout the length and breadth of Ireland are the ruins of many old castles and abbeys, which though externally presenting no more interesting or attractive feature than this old cemetery, are nevertheless, owing to the grand traditions to which their now crumbling stone work once bore witness, very centres of attraction, and form holiday haunts for tourists and those who have leisure, not only to dwell upon the past, but to stand on the very ground which gave birth to its sacred memories. Like to such sacred temples of antiquity, Forthill — for such is the name of the old cemetery of which we speak — is, too, a place of interest, and ought to be a centre of attraction ; for not only the stones, but even the very air that surrounds it, is impregnated with the grandest and most sacred traditions.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 2

Geography of Lough Corrib described

Lough Corrib · lake or lakes · Galway

Lough Corrib has its source in Bonbanan in the half barony of Ross, extends eight miles eastward to the river of Cong, dividing Ross from Moycullen barony, and then extends southwards twelve miles until it discharges into the river of Galway.

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country, and place him very early in the fifth century." Oorrib is thus indebted for its name to the great Carthagenian, and this is undoubtedly a most interesting fact." " It has its source in Bonbanan in the half barony of Eoss, and thence extends eight miles eastward to the river of Cong, having the half barony of Ross partly on each side, partly dividing Ross from Moycullen barony and partly having Ross on the north side — it extends southwards twelve miles in length till it discharges itself into the river of Galway."

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 41

Nicholas Clayton memorial in St. Augustine's Church

Saint Augustine Street · street · Galway · 1822

A monument in the present Church of St. Augustine commemorates Rev. Nicholas Clayton, whose name was still dear to the people of Galway at the time of writing. He served as Prior of Galway until his death in 1822.

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V. Rev. Nicholas Clayton, whose name is still dear to the people of Galway, and to whose memory there is a monument in the present Church of St. Augustine. He was Prior of Galway until his death in 1822.
Some other names, mentioned in the preceding pages, do not need to be repeated here.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 16

The purple hills of Thomond

Thomond · street · Dublin

The purple hills of Thomond can be seen from the shore of Salthill, wrapped in the grey mists rising from the sea. This landscape forms part of the scenic backdrop to Galway's history.

Read the passage

How hard it is to realize this pre-eminence now as we walk through the deserted byeways, and note its tottering habitations, its quondam palaces crumbling into an inglorious decay. Here and there, perhaps, a quaintly-gabled house or a solidly-built mansion, rising in lonely dignity, relieves the sad monotony ; but, for the most part, little now remains to tell the story of the past but an occasional piece of quaintly-carved stone set into an incongrous mass of ill-built brickwork or inartistic stucco. And as we study on these — the inscription or family arms almost obliterated by the hand of time— we cannot help the feeling which steals upon us, that it is but the cemetery of a leparted city we are walking through, and that these relics we linger so fondly over are but the tombstones of its departed grandeurs. Later, perchance, when the evening conies, and we rest ourselves on the rocky shore of Salthill, these same stones furnish us with a more pleasing occupation for our fancy, and as we watch the mists rising from the placid sea and wrapping in their grey mantle the purple hills of Thomond, or see in the east the grassy headlands standing in bold relief against a sky of tawny gold, our thoughts fly back through the centuries to the days of the city's greatness. We think how once these quiet shores echoed to the sullen boom of cannon that shook the proud battlements of Galway to their very foundation, and back from these battlements came the angry reply of the city guns, and the defiant shouts of its grim defenders. Too well, alas ! these invading cannons delivered their message of destruction, for scarce a stone now remains to tell its story of gallant defence ; scarce a document survives the exultant vandalism of the sometime successful besiegers. The smoke of their burnings hangs about the history of the city — a cloud of obscurity which the deepest research can never fully dispel.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 20

Augustine Abbey on the south side of Galway, c. 1512

Galway · city · Galway · 1512

The Augustine Abbey occupied an elevation on the south side of Galway town during the reign of Henry VIII, around 1512. From its porch an Austin Friar could look out over the old seaport. The abbey served as a vantage point for surveying the ancient city.

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Going back some four centuries, and standing on the vantage ground of the Augustine Abbey, which then occupied an elevation on the south side of the Town, one might obtain a view of the old seaport as it appeared to the x\ustin Friar looking out from the porch of his Monastery in the Eeign of Henry VIII. , somewhere about A.D. 1512. From that date upwards to the earliest beginnings of which there is any record, and downward thence to the present year of grace A.D. 1901, we shall take a brief survey of this ancient emporium of the West, and shall try to render attractive and interesting the story of its fortunes, its vicissitudes, and civic life. Considering the ephemeral nature of the causes which have led up to the enterprise, the project does, no doubt, seem ambitious. But the stigma of neglect and social decadence met us at every turn, and we felt that we had a duty to perform.
For (and let this be the prophet cry of the apologist) a people unmindful of its past is self -doomed to oblivion, and he that would not stay the vandal hand of the modern iconoclast is delivered over to a shame that will never die. Dream faces are those relics of the ancient time, 'gainst the apathy and dulness of an age whose exploits are not distinctively heroic, nor unselfishly Christian visions of warning, of retribution, or of hope.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 1

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are near where the Augustine Abbey once stood, on an elevation on the south side of the town. It was there, around 1512, in the reign of Henry VIII, that an Austin Friar could stand at the porch of his monastery and look out over the old seaport below. From that high ground the whole of the ancient city could be surveyed. The book that records this, written in 1901, sets out to trace the story of Galway from its earliest beginnings of which there is any record, up to that present year. The author calls the city the ancient emporium of the West, and speaks of its fortunes, its vicissitudes, and its civic life. He acknowledges the project seems ambitious, given the ephemeral nature of the causes behind it. But he says neglect and social decadence met him at every turn, and he felt a duty to perform. He writes that a people unmindful of its past is self-doomed to oblivion, and that he who would not stay the vandal hand of the modern iconoclast is delivered over to a shame that will never die. The relics of the ancient time are dream faces, he says, set against the apathy and dullness of an age whose exploits are not distinctively heroic, nor unselfishly Christian.

Dublin as a terminus of ancient partitions

Dublin · city · Dublin

Dublin and Galway served as the termini for the ancient partitions of Ireland, from the earliest divisions by Partholanus to the later ones by Con and Eoghan. This highlights the early importance of both cities.

Read the passage

In all these partitions the cities of Dublin and Galway were the termini of one or the other lines of division, and in this way they furnish no small evidence of the early importance of the Citie of the Tribes.
From the ninth century the town was much exposed to the ravages of the Danes, and, as a natural consequence, fell very much from its high estate. After the crushing defeat inflicted by Brian at the battle of Clontarf, the Irish generally, and particularly those of the West, had a little respite from the harassing warfare which, for the preceding three centuries, had convulsed the whole land. This respite was employed in providing more adequate means of defence for their towns and strongholds, and amongst the rest, we are told by the Four Masters, that the

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 20

Galway Corporation Book A at Merlin Park

near Merlin Park · street · Galway · 1820–1855

The Galway Corporation Book A manuscript was held in private hands at Merlin Park, belonging to Mr. Charles Blake. It was later acquired by Queen's College when James Hardiman was Librarian.

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{Tenth Report, App. Part V. Eyre and Spottiswoode, price 2s. 10d.). The manuscript, which in 1820 was already in private hands (belonging to Mr. Charles Blake of Merlin Park*), has been in Queen's College for many years, having been acquired, we believe, when Hardiman was Librarian, in 1849-1855.1 The other volumes of the series were purchased by the College at a much more recent date.
After it left Sir J. Gilbert's hands, Book A was re-constructed in the best possible manner, every page of the MS. being inlaid into the thick leaves of a guard-book which is securely bound in vellum.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 44

Galway's early importance as a trading post

Galway · city · Galway

Galway was a place of relative importance from the earliest settlement in Ireland. Centuries before the Christian era, merchants from Rome and Carthage came to trade there with the descendants of earlier settlers.

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Galway, from the very earliest settlement in Ireland, was a place of relative importance. Centuries before the Christian era hitherto came the merchants from Eomeand Carthaginia to trade with the descendants of the adventurous settlers of a still earlier period. How early we cannot now tell. It was some few centuries after the Flood, however, when one Partholanus, a Scythian, settled in Ireland, and in dying divided the country into four parts, assigning one to each of his four sons.
Later on, when the fierce Firbolgians had dispossessed the original settlers, they redivided the conquered land into five parts, one for each of their five commanders. This division was made about the year 2,500 A.M.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 20

Margaret Athy builds Abbey of St. Augustine at Forthill, 1508

Forthill · site · Donegal · 1508

In 1508, Margaret Athy, wife of Stephen Lynch Fitz-Dominick, built a handsome monastery and church for the Augustinian Friars on the level ground in the upper part of Forthill cemetery. She undertook the work during her husband's absence in Spain, and the church and steeple were finished before his return.

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Be this, however, as it may, we know for certain that in the year 1508, on the site of the present Forthill — on the level piece of ground in the upper part of the cemetery — a handsome monastery and church were built for the Augustinian Friars by Margaret Athy, wife of Stephen Lynch Fitz-Dominick Dnhli (who was
10 THE GAILLIV.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 5

Ptolemy marks Galway Bay as Ausoba on his map

near Galway Bay · bay · Clare

The ancient geographer Ptolemy referred to and marked the bay of Galway on his map, calling it Ausoba. This is cited as evidence of the antiquity of the place.

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A few words may not be inappropriately here, by way way of introduction, concerning the origin of the word " Gal way \ — a word so familiar to all of us, associated with the historic name of our county and of its chief town. It may be taken for granted that the town gave its name to the county, being of more ancient origin and relative importance. But whence the town derived its name is not exactly determined. The preponderance of belief seems to point to the fact that Galway is derived from the word " Gal via," which was the old name of the river upon which the city stands. A view of the various authorities and opinions upon the subject is not uninteresting. Thus Valiancy had two most ingenious theories explaining its derivation, ascribing it in one case to the Gaelic word " galmhaith" (a rocky, barren country) and in another instance he deduces it from Port-na-gall, or the harbour of strangers or merchants, as he held Gallia to mean a merchant, as it certainly does mean a stranger, and commerce in those days was associated with foreigners. O'Flaherty in his quaint ' Ogygia,' ascribes it to the name of the river. Ware also mentions the river Galvia as giving the name to the town, and he says that in the annals of Eoscommon from 1177-1190 it is so-called. Old Geoffry Fitz-Dominick Lynch, writing in 1661, agrees with this view, while De Burgo writes that Gaillimh means the residence of the English. It may fairly be concluded that such was its origin as applied to the town, and little doubt as to the extension of the meaning to the county, As a passing proof of the antiquity of the place, we may here incidentally mention that Ptolemy refers to and marks the bay of Galway on his wonderful map, calling it Ausoba.
ITS IMPORTANCE IN THE PAST THE OLD FAMILIES.

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav

Race course moved to neighbourhood of Tuam

Tuam · town · Galway · 1741

As an extra precaution during the 1741 famine crisis, the Ascendancy Party removed the race course to the neighbourhood of Tuam. This was alongside their offering of rewards for convictions for robbery among the starving populace.

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In 1741 the legitimate trade and commerce of the town having been driven to other ports, Galway was cruelly scourged by a famine. This was followed by a terrible pestilence which carried the people off by hundreds. A letter of that date says — " The fever so rages that the physicians say it is more like a plague than a fever, and refuse to visit the patients for any fee whatsoever." So bad, indeed, this calamity become that at one time the city was threatened with annihilation. The unfortunate inhabitants, dying of sickness and starvation, were driven to stealing the vegetables from the fields, or indeed any kind of food they could lay hands on. The Ascendancy Party, however, were not unmindful of their duty in this crisis, so they clubbed together and offered a reward of £30 for the first, and £10 for every subsequent conviction for robbery. As an extra precaution, they removed the race course to the neighbourhood of Tuam. f
* See article on Augustinians in Galway, page 23. f See article by R. J. Kelly, B.L.,

Internet Archive gaillivillustrat00trav, Chapter 33

The Gailliv. : an illustrated history of the ancient city of Galway

The stories, best first

Lough Corrib's ancient name from Manannan Mac Lir

Mayor Blakeny expels Catholics from Galway in 1715

Origin of the name Galway from the river Galvia

Protestant petition for St. Augustine's cemetery

Spaniards murdered near St. Augustine's Abbey (1589)

Augustinians shelter on Market Street

Destruction of the Abbey of St. Augustine

Galway's violated treaty: Augustinians expelled after 1691

St. Augustine's Abbey finally demolished in 1652

Confiscation of abbey possessions granted to Sir George Garew

Dr. Lynch, Archbishop of Tuam, bequeaths to Galway students

Galway courthouse granted to Augustinians for Mass, 1687

Mountjoy destroys cemetery and builds fort on Forthill

St. Augustine's Abbey handed to king's partisans (1551)

Temperance Buildings on Lombard Street lent for Bazaar

The Claddagh resembles early Galway in size and appearance

St. Augustine's Abbey re-confiscated and lands given to Corporation (c.1570)

1645 agreement to demolish abbey church and rebuild within town walls

Agreement to demolish St. Augustine's Abbey, Galway (1645)

St. Augustine's Abbey church built by Fitzstephen Lynch Fitzdominick and Margaret Athy

St. Augustine's Abbey Hill converted into a fort

1396 murage charter begins new epoch for Galway

Education at the ancient school of St. Nicholas

Galway's 1509 sanitary ordinances

Licence to remain granted to Augustinian Friar Dominic Martyn of Galway

Port of Galway shipping in 1794

Catholic ascendancy in Galway under James II

Old Augustinian church (1760) demolished for new building

Red Hugh O'Donnell occupies St. Augustine's Abbey as fort (1596)

Red Hugh O'Donnell assembles at Galway Abbey, 1596

1901 Galway Bazaar to repair St. Augustine's Church

Abbey restored to Augustinian Friars after fort surrender

Ancient Abbey of St. Augustine, Galway

Great fire of Galway, 1500

Stained glass window and interior decorations added

Tribes families settle in Galway

1473 Galway destroyed by lightning

Abbey of St. Augustine described as Gothic structure with green marble

Galway Augustinian Abbey founded by Margaret Athy in 1508

Galway's rise to commercial pre-eminence as a port

Milling industry and jute factory in Galway

Oldest surviving monument in Forthill Cemetery

Richard Begge and Donnell Oge O'Vollaghan made free, 1500

Two sons treacherously slain at Galway castle

Augustinian Nuns move to Franciscan Convent in Market Street

Bermingham family founds early Augustinian monastery near Forthill

James II removes Catholic disabilities in Galway (1686)

Measurement and description of St. Augustine's Abbey before demolition

Salthill shore and views of Thomond

Forthill Cemetery on site of St. Augustine's Abbey

Geography of Lough Corrib described

Nicholas Clayton memorial in St. Augustine's Church

The purple hills of Thomond

Augustine Abbey on the south side of Galway, c. 1512

Dublin as a terminus of ancient partitions

Galway Corporation Book A at Merlin Park

Galway's early importance as a trading post

Margaret Athy builds Abbey of St. Augustine at Forthill, 1508

Ptolemy marks Galway Bay as Ausoba on his map

Race course moved to neighbourhood of Tuam