The History of Drogheda, with its Environs (vol. 2)

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

1. Desmond's son slain by 'swords of the wicked' at Drogheda

   Drogheda · town · Louth · 1468

   Following the Earl's execution, his five sons rose in rebellion and burned English settlements. Sir Thomas, a younger son, was killed at Drogheda in 1468, described by Grace's Annals as slain by the swords of the wicked, or made a martyr of Christ.

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   James the eldest son, being recognized as the Earl, had a grant for the term of his life, of Kerry, with the town and castle of Dungarvan, similar to that which had been before conferred upon his father. Grace, in his Annals, noticing the death of Sir Thomas, a younger son of the above Earl, says of that father, that he was " slain by the swords of the wicked at Drogheda, or shall I rather say, was made a martyr of Christ, in the year of our Lord 1468."

   At the close of that year, another Parliament was held here, on an adjournment from Dublin. The Roll contains the Acts of six sessions, in eighty-four chapters, and is in tolerable preservation. Of these only two have been printed, and one of them imperfectly. This latter, after reciting the English Act of the sixth year of Richard the Second's reign, " de raptu mulierum," and " that the people learned in this kingdom, have conceived some doubt, whether the Statute made in England ought to be of force in this land, without a confirmation thereof in this land, in avoiding of all inconvenience and mischief which might happen, because of the ambiguity of said Statute, it (as stated in the printed copy) enacted, by authority of the said Parliament, that the said Statute be adjudged and approved in force and strength, and that the same be of force in this land, and that henceforth the said Act, and all other Statutes and Acts made by authority of Parliament within the realm of England, be ratified and confirmed, and adjudged by the authority of this Parlia-

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   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is Drogheda, the town you are coming to on this road. In 1468 it was the scene of a killing that an annalist wrote about with feeling. Sir Thomas, a younger son of the Earl, died here that year. Grace, in his Annals, described him as, "slain by the swords of the wicked at Drogheda, or shall I rather say, was made a martyr of Christ, in the year of our Lord 1468." His elder brother James had been recognised as the Earl, and held a grant for life of Kerry, with the town and castle of Dungarvan, the same kind of grant their father had been given before. At the close of that same year, another Parliament was held here in Drogheda, on an adjournment from Dublin. The Roll contains the Acts of six sessions, in eighty-four chapters, and is in tolerable preservation. Of these, only two have been printed, and one of them imperfectly. That imperfect one recites the English Act of the sixth year of Richard the Second's reign, "de raptu mulierum." It notes that the people learned in this kingdom had conceived some doubt whether the Statute made in England ought to be of force in this land without a confirmation here. So by authority of that Parliament, the Statute was adjudged and approved in force and strength in this land, and all other statutes and acts made by authority of Parliament within the realm of England were ratified and confirmed.

2. Lord Moore's sally over Tullyallen and capture of Art Mac Mahon

   Tullyallen · town · Louth · 1642

   Lord Moore led 400 foot and 80 horse over his estates at Tullyallen, defeating besieging forces and capturing Art Mac Mahon, styled Lord Baron of Monaghan among the Irish, whose head had been valued in a proclamation.

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   ing, and for expression of joy there wanted no bonfires of three or four towns together, whereby a clear day grew dusky by the smoke. A fair house of one Draycot (who by the rebels was newly created Viscount Momington, for his merit in the cause), made the clearest light, which was done the rather in a just revenge of his fraudulent disarming many of our soldiers as they were making hither from the bridge of Juhanstown. His library, with what could be preserved from the fire, was brought in hither and sold us at very easy rates; a very large parch-, ment manuscript of an old missal, consecrated to that church of Momington, came to my hands, the loss of which I presume they have valued more than their houses." On the 5th of March Lord Moore led out 400 foot, and 80 horse, over his own estates of Tullyallen, and also defeated the forces of the besiegers in that quarter, taking prisoner Art Mac Mahon, who had been stiled amongst the Irish, Lord Baron of Monaghan, and whose head was of those especially valued in the before-mentioned proclamation. And in the mean time. Sir Henry Tichbume was equally successful in a sally towards Bewly, in which he burned the village of Newtown.

   The results of these harassing sallies were immediately apparent; the castles of Bewly and Stameen, at their respective sides of the river, were deserted on that very evening ; and Sir Phelim O'Neill himself, hearing of the approach of the Earl of Ormond, fled with some field pieces in the direction of Dun-

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   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Tullyallen, you are on ground that Lord Moore rode over in March 1642. He led 400 foot and 80 horse across his own estates here and defeated the besieging forces in this quarter. In the fighting he took prisoner Art Mac Mahon, a man the Irish called Lord Baron of Monaghan. Mac Mahon's head was among those especially valued in a proclamation issued before these events. There had been celebration among the besiegers not long before. Bonfires of three or four towns together had turned clear days dusky with smoke. A fine house belonging to one Draycot, whom the rebels had created Viscount Momington for his merit in their cause, burned the brightest. This was done in revenge, it was said, for his fraudulent disarming of soldiers as they made their way from the bridge of Julianstown. His library and what could be saved from the fire were brought in and sold at easy rates. A large parchment manuscript, an old missal consecrated to the church of Momington, came into one writer's hands, and he presumed its loss was valued more than the rebels' houses. These sallies had immediate effect. The castles of Bewly and Stameen, on either side of the river, were deserted that same evening, and Sir Phelim O'Neill, hearing of the Earl of Ormond's approach, fled with field pieces toward Dundalk.

3. Sally near Bewley slays seventy-three of the enemy

   Bewley · townland · Waterford · 1642

   On 11 February Sir Henry Tichbourne led a sally in the direction of Bewly, killing seventy-three of the enemy including Captain Owen, a former follower of the Earl of Tyrone, and capturing colours and prisoners.

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   garrison. The biscuit and meal were exhausted in a fortnight, and famine and sickness resumed their destructive visitation, while, to prevent any other aid, Sir Phelim O'Neill caused a second ship to be simken more effectively in the channel, and strengthened the boom across it Frequent sallies procured com and provender for the horses, but horse-flesh, dogs, and cats, were the best food attainable for the men. At this crisis. Sir Phelim O'Neill, fancying the time was approaching when he would be able more successfully to assault the town, hurried to the North to procure an additional levy of men, and a supply of arms and ordnance, while Sir Henry Tichbume availed himself of the same interval, to despatch Captain Cadogan to Dublin, there to represent the necessities of the besieged, and to solicit a further supply of provisions and men. Scarcely a day afterwards elapsed without some sally, at first to such places as lay nearest to the town, but afterwards, emboldened by success, the governor sent Captain Trevor four miles off, where he captured a prey of eighty cows, and two hundred and sixty sheep. On the 11th of February, Sir Henry led another sally in the direction of Bewly, when seventy-three of the enemy were slain with Captain Owen (a follower of the Earl of Tyrone in Queen Elizabeth's time), a lieutenant, and an ensign, and there were taken two colours, one ensign, three seijeants, and nine privates. In two days afterwards, the same commander directed a foray, when he captured' eighty cows, and about two hundred sheep.

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4. Schomberg Lands at Bangor Near Belfast, 1689

   near Bangor · town · Down · 1689

   Marshal Schomberg landed on 13 August 1689 at Bangor near Belfast with a considerable and well-appointed army, prompting King James to send the Duke of Berwick to command troops at Newry.

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   The rumours of an invasion of Ireland, from England, were in a few weeks verified, Monsieur Schomberg having landed on the 13th of August, at Bangor, near Belfast, accompanied by a considerable and well appointed army. King James hereupon, with the concurrence of Lord Tyrconnel, some of the French officers, and many of his own subjects, despatched the Duke of Berwick to command the troops about Newry, and to keep the place as long as he could; he next ordered Sir Charles Camy to quit Coleraine, and come off by the way of Charlemont, lest he might be intercepted by the enemy; and on the 26th of August went himself to Drogheda, to encourage his own men and be nearer the enemy, that he might better observe their motions. He took with him one hundred of his horse guards,, two hundred of Parker's regiment of horse, which were all at that time in a condition to march, and left the Duke of Tyrconnel (who was then unwell), behind at Dublin, to expedite troops after him, as fast as they could be got into a condition to march.

   Schomberg, immediately on his landing, besieged Carrickfergus, which he took, but not without a resistance of eight days, and soon afterwards possessed himself of Dundalk. A scarce pamphlet, dated 2nd September, 1689, and entitled " An account of Duke Schomberg's march towards Dublin," contains the following passages in reference to the state of the country at this juncture: "His Grace Duke Schomberg intends to take in Charlemont, being upon his

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5. Slaying of Royalists at the Town of Louth

   Louth · town · Louth · 1312

   Insurgents took possession of the town of Louth; royal forces under Nicholas Avenel and Patrick de Roche marched to dislodge them bearing the king's banner, but Nicholas de Verdon and an armed force from Dundalk attacked and slew Avenel, de Roche and others, taking prisoners and chasing survivors into Ardee.

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   knowledge of this agreement reached Ardee, Nicholas Avenel knight, Patrick de Roche, Walter de Neville, and others, who had been sent, as before mentioned, to protect that town, hearing that the insurgents had taken possession of that of Louth, hastened thither to dislodge them, bearing before them the unfurled banner of the king, when the said Nicholas de Verdon, taking the part of the rebels and abetting their proceedings, with an armed force as well of English as Irish from the town of Dimdalk and its vicinage, attacked the royal force, resisted the king's standard, and slew the said Nicholas Avenel, Patrick de Roche, and others of their company, although the said offenders well knew they came there in the king's service; and they likewise took prisoners the said Walter de Neville, John Tallon, and Richard de Lynet, and detained them in gaol; made spoil of horses and arms to the value of £100; and chased the routed royalists into Ardee. — ^Nicholas de Verdon defended himself against this charge, on the grounds, that after he had received the royal commission, he proceeded with the posse comitatus to Dundalk, to parley with the insurgents, that, while he was engaged in inducing them to surrender, he saw the town of Louth, and other towns and villages thereabout, on fire ; whereupon he proceeded thither with the posse, and, finding that the conflagration was caused by the said Nicholas Avenel, Patrick de Roche, and their adherents, a conflict ensued, in which the unfortunate consequences

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6. St. Patrick preaches at Clogh-Patrick and baptizes at Patrick's Well

   Drogheda · town · Louth · 443

   In 443 St. Patrick entered Drogheda, met by townspeople a mile out on the Collon road, where he preached standing on a stone thereafter called Clogh-Patrick. He baptized converts at a nearby well, which later gave its name to Patrick's Well Lane before being closed up.

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   angel8(a). In 443 St. Patrick made his entry into Drogheda, under the following peculiar circumstances; the fame of his sanctity, and the glorious results of his preaching were proclaimed throughout the kingdom so loudly that he determined to revisit the court at Tara, his labours since his arrival having been directed to the work of conversion in Connaught and Ulster. His approach on this occasion was from Ardpatrick, near Louth, and as soon as the inhabitants of Drogheda heard that he was coming towards their town, crossing the river, they went out in a body and received him about a mile in advance on the Collon road, and there standing upon a stone, since traditionally called Clogh-Patrick, the Saint preached to his auditory the happy tidings of salvation, and baptized his converts in a well still more contiguous to this town, and which, on its extension at the northern side, gave name to Patrick's Well Lane; the well, has, however, been some time since closed up.

   The scepticism that would have cast a doubt on the existence of St. Patrick, or at least enveloped in obscurity the era of his ministry, has been long since exploded, and, as his visit to Drogheda appears no less assured by concurrent testimony, the

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   As the companion tells it

   As Drogheda comes up, it is worth knowing what happened here in 443. St. Patrick had been labouring at conversion in Connaught and Ulster, and his fame had spread so loudly that he determined to revisit the court at Tara. His approach on this occasion was from Ardpatrick, near Louth. As soon as the inhabitants of Drogheda heard that he was coming towards their town, they crossed the river and went out in a body to receive him, about a mile in advance on the Collon road. There, standing upon a stone, the Saint preached to his auditory the happy tidings of salvation. That stone has been traditionally called Clogh-Patrick ever since. He baptized his converts in a well still more contiguous to the town, and when the town extended at its northern side, the well gave its name to Patrick's Well Lane. The well itself, however, has been some time since closed up. The record says the scepticism that once cast doubt on the existence of St. Patrick, or enveloped the era of his ministry in obscurity, has long since been exploded, and his visit to Drogheda appears assured by concurrent testimony.

7. Abbot of Mellefont imprisoned over illegal weir at Oldbridge

   Oldbridge · townland · Meath · 1366

   In 1366 the Abbot of Mellifont was indicted at Trim for erecting an unlawful weir at Oldbridge on the Boyne; the court ordered the weir reduced and committed the Abbot to gaol, though the imprisonment was later remitted on payment of a fine.

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   with the custody and assay of weights and measures therein. They had also license to acquire twenty librates in the waste lands of the marches, and a burgage holding in the borough of Drogheda, or in the suburbs thereof, for a habitation for themselves and their suite, at the meetings of Parliaments, Great Councils, &c., in said town. In 1351, Friar Reginald, the Abbot of Mellefont, was found guilty of having, contrary to the Statute, and in time of war with France, collected, within two years, of his own money, and from the Abbots of Boyle, Bjnockmoy, Bectiflf, and Cashel, the sum of 664 florins, and of having remitted half thereof to the Abbot and convent of Clairvaux in France. In 1358, the Abbot obtained judgment on his title to three weirs upon the Boyne, at Rosnaree, Knowth, and Staghlyn. In 1366, however, he was indicted at Trim, for erecting an unlawful weir at Oldbridge, on the same river, when the jury found, as fully set out in the foregoing notice of the Boyne, and the Court thereupon ordered the weir to be reduced to a certain breadth and space, and committed the Abbot to gaol. The imprisonment was, however, remitted, on his paying the fine of £10 to Roland de Shalesford, sheriff of the county of Meath ; yet, in 1369, his successor, John Terrour was indicted, not only for a similar offence in obstructing the king's right of passage on the Boyne, but also for remitting forty marks to Clairvaux, and for being elected to his dignity without the king's license first obtained. The Abbot, in

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   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, on the Boyne, the Abbot of Mellifont built a weir in 1366 that landed him in trouble. He was indicted at Trim for erecting it unlawfully, and the jury found against him. The court ordered the weir reduced to a certain breadth and space, and committed the Abbot to gaol. His imprisonment was later remitted on payment of a fine of 10 pounds to Roland de Shalesford, sheriff of the county of Meath. He had form on the river, too. In 1358 he obtained judgment on his title to three weirs on the Boyne, at Rosnaree, Knowth, and Staghlyn. And in 1351, as Friar Reginald, he had been found guilty of collecting 664 florins from his own funds and from the abbots of Boyle, Knockmoy, Bectiff, and Cashel, and remitting half to the abbey of Clairvaux in France, contrary to statute and in time of war with France. His successor, John Terrour, fared no better. In 1369 Terrour was indicted for a similar offence, obstructing the king's right of passage on the Boyne, and also for sending 40 marks to Clairvaux and for being elected without the king's license.

8. Abbot of Mellifont indicted for illegal weir at Oldbridge, 1366

   Oldbridge · townland · Meath · 1366

   In 1366 Reginald Leynagh, Abbot of Mellifont, was indicted for erecting a weir on the Boyne at Oldbridge, obstructing the king's ancient free passage on the river between Drogheda and Trim. A jury found the weir illegal and ordered its removal, fining the Abbot.

   Read the passage

   sons for seizing on a certain weir at Fenner, on the Boyne, the property of William de Clifford, and the Escheator's return thereon, that he had seized the weir because said William had raised it so high on the mid-channel of the king's water-way, that no small ships or boats could pass as they were wont, to the prejudice of the king and his people ; the king therefore directs, that, inasmuch as the cause assigned does not appear to be sufficient justification, the Escheator shall, if he has no better, withdraw his caption and accoimt for mesne profits to Clifford. " Witness, John Morris, our Deputy, at Skryne, 15th March, 17th of our reign." Another instance appears on record in 1366, when Reginald Leynagh, Abbot of Mellefont, was indicted for erecting a weir on the Boyne, at Oldbridge. The jury, upon that occasion, found that, from the time of the arrival of the English, the king had a certain free passage on that river, from the town of Drogheda to the bridge of Trim, usually called a watersarde, twenty-four feet in breadth from the bank on each side of the river, according to the discretion of twelve honest men, six of the neighbourhood of one side, and six of the other; and that through this aperture boats called curraghs, with timber for building, and floats, had liberty to pass free constantly from Drogheda to the bridge of Trim. They also found that no weir had been erected there for upwards of thirty years, whereupon the weir was adjudged to be removed, and the Abbot fined. Renewed efforts at similar

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   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Oldbridge, in 1366 Reginald Leynagh, Abbot of Mellifont, was indicted for erecting a weir on the Boyne. The jury found that from the time of the arrival of the English, the king had a certain free passage on that river, from the town of Drogheda to the bridge of Trim, usually called a watersarde, twenty-four feet in breadth from the bank on each side of the river, according to the discretion of twelve honest men, six of the neighbourhood of one side, and six of the other. Through this aperture boats called curraghs, with timber for building, and floats, had liberty to pass free constantly from Drogheda to the bridge of Trim. The jury also found that no weir had been erected there for upwards of thirty years, whereupon the weir was adjudged to be removed, and the Abbot fined. There was an earlier case on the same river. William de Clifford had a weir at Fenner on the Boyne, and the Escheator seized it, because William had raised it so high on the mid-channel of the king's water-way that no small ships or boats could pass as they were wont, to the prejudice of the king and his people. But the king directed that the cause assigned did not appear sufficient justification. The Escheator was to withdraw his caption and account for mesne profits to Clifford. Witness, John Morris, the Deputy, at Skryne, 15th March, in the 17th year of the reign.

9. Act of Parliament to establish a university at Drogheda

   Drogheda · town · Louth · 1465

   An Act of Parliament (5 Edw. IV c.46) was passed granting Drogheda the establishment of a university with the same liberties as Oxford, at the request of the townsmen who argued the town, as residence of the Primate, deserved such distinction; the plan was never realised due to subsequent political turmoil.

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   at the instance of the Archbishop of Dublin, a bull of the Pope was procured, for the establishment of a university in Dublin, which, however, had declined from want of funds, besought him to effect a similar distinction for their town, the immemorial residence of the Primate of Ireland ; and an Act was accordingly passed (5 Edw. IV. c. 46), of which the following is a translation : " Also at the request of the commons, because the land of Ireland has no university, nor place of general study within it, a work of which sort would cause a great increase of knowledge, riches, and good government, and would prevent riot, evil government, and extortion, within the said land; it is therefore ordained, estabUshed, and granted, by authority of Parliament, that there be a university in the town of Drogheda, in which may be made bachelors, masters, and doctors, in all sciences and faculties, as they are made in the university of Oxford; and that they may also have, occupy, and enjoy all manner of liberties, privileges, laws, and laudable customs, which the said university of Oxford hath occupied and enjoyed, so that it be not prejudicial to the mayor, sheriffs, nor commonalty of the said town of Drogheda." The political events of the period, however, prevented the consummation of this desirable object. Ireland as well as England was in a state of complete exhaustion during the reign of Edward the Fourth, and in that of Henry the Seventh, was much distracted, by the attempts of his enemies to make it the scene of contests and rebel-

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   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Drogheda, there is a story from 1465 that the town nearly became a seat of learning. The townsmen of Drogheda had seen how, at the instance of the Archbishop of Dublin, a papal bull was procured to establish a university in Dublin, only for it to fail from want of funds. They besought the Archbishop to secure the same distinction for their own town, which was the immemorial residence of the Primate of Ireland. An Act of Parliament was passed, 5 Edward the Fourth, about chapter 46. The Act records that it was made at the request of the commons, because the land of Ireland had no university, nor place of general study within it. Such a work, it said, would cause a great increase of knowledge, riches, and good government, and would prevent riot, evil government, and extortion. It was therefore ordained by authority of Parliament that there be a university in the town of Drogheda, in which bachelors, masters, and doctors could be made in all sciences and faculties, as they are made in the university of Oxford, with all the same liberties, privileges, laws, and customs, provided nothing prejudiced the mayor, sheriffs, or commonalty of the town. It never came to pass. Ireland and England were both in complete exhaustion during the reign of Edward the Fourth, and under Henry the Seventh the land was much distracted by enemies trying to make it a scene of contests and rebellion.

10. Archbishop Ralph Kelly of Drogheda opposes royal subsidy in Munster

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1293

    Ralph Kelly, born in Drogheda and later Archbishop of Cashel, opposed a parliamentary subsidy being levied in Munster, convening his suffragans and forbidding payment under penalty of excommunication, grounding the resistance on the privileges of Magna Charta of Ireland; he was later found guilty and compelled to submit.

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    the State, but he opposed its being levied within Munster, convened an assembly of his suffragans, and, with their concurrence, actually forbad its payment, under a penalty of loss of benefices to the clergy, and excommunication to the laity, grounding their opposition on the privileges secured to the Church by the Magna Charta of Ireland. The form of excommunication, as fulminated at that time, is preserved in that valuable record " the Red Book of the Exchequer," now lodged in the office of the Chief Remembrancer in Dublin (£ 27). It was an ecclesiastical sanction frequently resorted to in Ireknd. (See Mr. Hardiman's truly valuable comment on the Statute of Kilkenny, in the second volume of the Tracts of the Irish Archaeological Society, p. 31, et seq.) Archbishop Kelly was, however, found guilty on information exhibited against him, and compelled to submit; but the event is the more to be noted, as evincing how unpopular or how enfeebled English power had become. It was the precise period from which maybe dated the frequent repetition on record of" English rebels," as not less opposed to government than the class before denounced as " Irish enemies." In 1295, King Edward, having by mandate directed his Justiciary, John Wogan, to convene the military available forces of Ireland, for service in the Scottish war, amongst those whose obedience was thereupon required, according to their respective tenures, were, of this vicinity, Geoffrey de Geneville, Theobald de Verdon, Walter de Lacy, William

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    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, this is the town where Ralph Kelly was born. He went on to become Archbishop of Cashel, and in 1293 he set himself against a parliamentary subsidy the State sought to levy in Munster. He convened an assembly of his suffragans and, with their concurrence, forbade its payment. The clergy would lose their benefices; the laity would face excommunication. He grounded the opposition in the privileges secured to the Church by the Magna Charta of Ireland. The form of excommunication as fulminated at that time is preserved in the Red Book of the Exchequer, now lodged in the office of the Chief Remembrancer in Dublin. It was an ecclesiastical sanction frequently resorted to in Ireland. Archbishop Kelly was found guilty on information exhibited against him and compelled to submit. But the event is the more to be noted, as evincing how enfeebled English power had become. It was the precise period from which the frequent repetition on record of "English rebels" may be dated, no less opposed to government than the class denounced as "Irish enemies." In 1295, King Edward directed his Justiciary, John Wogan, to convene the military forces of Ireland for the Scottish war. Among those whose obedience was required were Geoffrey de Geneville, Theobald de Verdon, Walter de Lacy, and William

11. Burning of Mornington and Draycot's house

    near Mornington · town · Meath · 1642

    Colonel Wainman's forces advanced to Mornington finding it abandoned, and pillaged grain from the fields. A house belonging to Draycot, newly styled Viscount Mornington by the rebels, was burned in revenge, destroying a valuable parchment manuscript missal of the church.

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    ing, and for expression of joy there wanted no bonfires of three or four towns together, whereby a clear day grew dusky by the smoke. A fair house of one Draycot (who by the rebels was newly created Viscount Momington, for his merit in the cause), made the clearest light, which was done the rather in a just revenge of his fraudulent disarming many of our soldiers as they were making hither from the bridge of Juhanstown. His library, with what could be preserved from the fire, was brought in hither and sold us at very easy rates; a very large parch-, ment manuscript of an old missal, consecrated to that church of Momington, came to my hands, the loss of which I presume they have valued more than their houses." On the 5th of March Lord Moore led out 400 foot, and 80 horse, over his own estates of Tullyallen, and also defeated the forces of the besiegers in that quarter, taking prisoner Art Mac Mahon, who had been stiled amongst the Irish, Lord Baron of Monaghan, and whose head was of those especially valued in the before-mentioned proclamation. And in the mean time. Sir Henry Tichbume was equally successful in a sally towards Bewly, in which he burned the village of Newtown.

    The results of these harassing sallies were immediately apparent; the castles of Bewly and Stameen, at their respective sides of the river, were deserted on that very evening ; and Sir Phelim O'Neill himself, hearing of the approach of the Earl of Ormond, fled with some field pieces in the direction of Dun-

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12. Cormac's body carried to Ros-na-riogh after Magi thwart burial at Tara

    Rosnaree · street · Limerick

    Cormac forbade burial in the Pagan royal cemetery at Rath-na-Riogh in Tara; as his body was carried across the Boyne near Slane the Magi thrice thwarted the crossing, and on the fourth attempt the bier was swept downriver to Ros-na-riogh, where it was interred, giving the place its name.

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    the water, a little below the hill of Slane. On the fourth occasion it is said, the struggle was so violent that the bier was whirled into the water, and carried down to Ros-na-riogh, i. e. " the promontory of the King," where, when discovered, the body was solemnly interred, thus giving a name to the locality. The Four Masters, after many well-merited eulogies on the memory of this sovereign, state that he composed the"Tiagasc-na-Riogh"(inslructionsfor Kings) in order to promote good manners, morals, and social duties in the kingdom, was an illustrious author on government and history, and promulgated laws and regulations, according to justice, so that what he prescribed was adhered to in Ireland, to the then present time. In the more glorious pre-eminence of his religious opinions, although Cormac could not be said to have believed in Christ, yet his imdoubted Theism, and his utter abhorrence of the Pagan rites of the day, obtained such favour in the eyes of St. Columb, that he is said, after a lapse of four centuries from the period of the monarch's death, to have pdd him the reverence usually given to eminent and holy believers, erecting a chapel or oratory over his grave, and, as a Pagan convert of the earliest auspice, whose precepts and example in life were a light amongst the heathens, a forerunner of the coming revelation, he well merited that tribute to his memory. From his time Druidism, or rather the Magian worship, declined, and the ultimate reception of St Patrick was irresistibly facilitated.

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13. Cromwell advances on Drogheda from Dublin

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1649

    After landing at Dublin with 9000 foot and 400 horse, Cromwell proceeded to besiege Drogheda, sending his cannon and provisions by sea, while Irish forces retreated into the town to make a stand.

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    Within a very short interval of his debarkation, Cromwell proceeded from Dublin, and on the 3rd of September sat down before this town, in considerable strength, having sent his cannon and provisions by sea. Ormond, convinced of his design, had sent orders to the governor, to burn the town, destroy the fortifications, and to drive all the cattle before him from the surrounding country, and then secure himself, with those under his guidance, in some other

    (a) Walsh's Remonstrance, App. 112

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are on the ground where Cromwell sat down to besiege the town on the 3rd of September 1649. He had landed at Dublin and advanced here with considerable strength, sending his cannon and provisions by sea. Ormond, convinced of Cromwell's design, had sent orders to the governor to burn the town, destroy the fortifications, and drive all the cattle from the surrounding country, then secure himself elsewhere.

14. Dundalk found deserted but fortified by William's advancing forces

    Dundalk · town · Louth · 1690

    Colonel Bellingham's diary records entering Dundalk on 27 June 1690 to find the town wholly desolate but strongly fortified, with only Captain Bolton and his wife remaining, both having been stripped.

    Read the passage

    A few extracts from a diary kept by Colonel Bellingham, an ancestor of Sir Alan, while serving under King William, and which is preserved in the possession of his family, may be not uninteresting in reference to the battle of the Boyne. " June 27th, 1690. Very hot. About two this morning I moved towards Dundalk, and entered it about six, with Lieutenant-General Holmes, and Major-General Kirke; the town was wholly desolate, but strongly fortified; no inhabitant left but Captain Bolton and his wife, who are both stript. Our army encamped about a mile south of Dundalk, being now entire, Doyle's party having joined ours. J. White and I went as far as Lurgan-race, and sate there some time, eating bread and cheese. The king resolved to attack the enemy this night, in their quarters, at Ardee, but, hearing by some dragoons, who were at the very gate, and killed two of their men there, that the enemy was retired, he put off his resolution. I waited on the king at supper, when he discoursed me most of the time, and was extremely pleasant and cheerful. — 28th. Very hot. I waited on the king to Ardee ; from thence was ordered by him to go with

    342 GENERAL mSTORT.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 155

15. Fortification of Drogheda Against Schomberg's Advance

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1689

    A 1689 pamphlet describes James's forces fortifying Drogheda as best they could to withstand a possible winter siege from Schomberg's army, while cutting down woods at Santry and Clontarf and pallisading the roads to Dublin.

    Read the passage

    march towards Dublin, having only the Newry pass and Drogheda to take, the Irish daily imploring protection as he marches The fine woods at Santry and Clontarf are all cut down, and the ways pallisadoed between Swords and Dublin, and King James threatens to fight the English between Drogheda and Dundalk, and intends to march his army thither, having fortified the town of Drogheda with all the care and diligence they are capable of, which truly is not much, for a safe retreat in case the enemy should be beaten, thinking that they may endure a winter^s siege, and then they may be relieved by the French at spring, the Irish bragging that they have left the North for the English to make themselves graves."

    It was on the day of the date of this publication, that King James issued his proclamation " from our Court at Drogheda," which declared, " we will cause 40^. sterling, to be paid to any soldier, whether Catholic or Protestant, English or stranger, now serving under the command of Marshal Schomberg, who wiU come and enlist himself in our army, and as to the officers, that we will give them the same command that they had in the enemy's army, and also will prefer them to better employments as they shall deserve." This monarch's troops having come up, he formed a camp, and found his men, both officers and soldiers, hearty and resolute, as men who felt a conviction that nothing but victory could secure them from losing their liberty, their estates, and re-

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 139

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Drogheda, the town James's forces fortified in 1689 against Schomberg's advance. A pamphlet from that year says they strengthened Drogheda with all the care and diligence they were capable of, which truly was not much. They meant it as a safe retreat in case the enemy should be beaten, thinking they could endure a winter's siege and then be relieved by the French at spring. The fine woods at Santry and Clontarf were all cut down, and the ways pallisaded between Swords and Dublin. James threatened to fight the English between Drogheda and Dundalk, and the Irish bragged that they had left the North for the English to make themselves graves. On the day of the pamphlet's publication, James issued a proclamation from his court at Drogheda, offering 40 sterling to any soldier, Catholic or Protestant, English or stranger, then serving under Marshal Schomberg, who would come and enlist in his army. He promised officers the same command they held in the enemy's army, and preferment to better employments as they should deserve. His troops were said to be hearty and resolute, as men who felt that nothing but victory could secure them from losing their liberty, their estates, and their religion.

16. Irish rally at Donore church

    Donore · town · Meath · 1690

    The Irish army retreated in good order to Donore, near whose old church King James remained during the engagement surrounded by his guards, and from there advanced again to renew the fight.

    Read the passage

    After an uninterrupted firing of an hour, the disorder on both sides occasioning some respite, the centre of the English army began to recover from their confusion; while the Irish retreated to Donore (near the old church of which their Sovereign had remained during the engagement, surrounded by his guards), and here, drawing up in good order, once more advanced to the fight. William, who, accompanied by the Prince of Denmark, another son-inlaw of James the Second, had crossed the river at a ford within a mile of Drogheda, with the left wing of his horse, including the Dutch, Danish, and English cavalry, now placed himself at the head of his army, and when the enemy had, in a rally, advanced from Donore, almost within musket shot of his infantry, he was seen sword in hand, animating his squadrons, and preparing to renew the engagement. James's troops, however, after a short halt, again retraced their steps to Donore, but there facing about, charged with such success, that the English cavalry, though commanded by William in person, were repulsed. His assailants were in their turn gallantly charged by the Enniskilleners, supported by the Dutch, and ultimately by all the English army, when the battle was for some time maintained with equal bravery by both parties; imtil, the Irish infantry having been broken, and Hamilton's cavalry, after a fuiious charge, also routed, James and

    326 GENERAL mSTOBY.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 147

17. Lord Thomas Fitzgerald's siege of Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1534

    In 1534 Lord Thomas Fitzgerald, in rebellion, planned to besiege Drogheda, reportedly angered by the town's role in capturing the pirate Erode. A friar warned the Lord Deputy of hundreds of horsemen marching to lay siege, prompting the Deputy to march from Dublin to defend the town for seven days.

    Read the passage

    at Tredagh [Drogheda], on the 6th of May, 1531 ; and at the same time, it is probable, he made the proposal, mentioned by Sir John Davis, that if the lord the king would be willing to reform Ireland, he and his would gladly be governed by the laws of England"(a). In 1534, Lord Thomas Pitz Gerald, then in rebellion, meditated the siege of this town, having been, as suggested by Cox, exasperated against its inhabitants, for aiding in the capture of Erode, a noted pirate, but an adherent of his, whom the English fleet had run on shore here. The projected attack is spoken of in a despatch from Sir WiUiam Brereton to King Henry. " The 27th of October, at night, there came a friar from Tredagh imto your Grace's said Deputy, and imto us, and shewed us that he met that morning three or four hundred horsemen of Thomas Fitz Gerald's company, going to lay siege to the town of Tredagh, with Thomas Fitz Gerald ; and the morrow after, being Simon and Jude's day, leaving certain of our company to keep the town and castle of Dublin, we went with the said Deputy to defend the said town of Tredagh, and came there that night, being twenty long miles from Dublin ; and when we came there, we lay seven long days, and many lords and gentlemen of the coimtry there, resorted to us daily, from day to day, during the said space, and, when the said lords and gentlemen were put in and kept the same countries, the said Deputy and we came to Dublin." While

    (a) Cox's Ireland, vol. i. p. 223.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 87

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are on the ground of a siege that never quite fell. In 1534 Lord Thomas Fitzgerald, in rebellion against the crown, planned to besiege this town. He was said to be exasperated against its people for helping capture a pirate called Erode, a noted man but one of Fitzgerald's own adherents, whom the English fleet had run ashore here. The projected attack is recorded in a despatch from Sir William Brereton to King Henry. On the 27th of October, a friar came from Drogheda to the Lord Deputy and told him that he had met that morning 300 or 400 horsemen of Thomas Fitzgerald's company, going to lay siege to the town, with Thomas Fitzgerald himself. The morrow after, being Simon and Jude's day, they left certain of their company to keep the town and castle of Dublin, and went with the Deputy to defend Drogheda. They came there that night, twenty long miles from Dublin, and lay there seven long days. Many lords and gentlemen of the country resorted to them daily, from day to day, during that space. When those lords and gentlemen were put in and kept the same countries, the Deputy and his company came back to Dublin. The town held.

18. Mayor of Dublin relieves Drogheda from O'Neill's threat

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1566

    In 1566, with the Lord Deputy absent, Drogheda was in danger of being taken by O'Neill; at the urgent request of Lady Sydney then residing in the town, Mayor Sarsfield of Dublin brought a band of citizens to relieve it, foiling the enemy's plans.

    Read the passage

    room with their skenes by them. But as soon as he came to his master, Adam Loftus, he cried out " pardon me, master !" The Archbishop asking him " why, what hast thou done?" he told him the whole story, whereupon he wrote to the Lord Lieutenant of it. From this apparently trifling incident a suspicion was strongly excited against O'Neill, on which the Lord Lieutenant began preparations for an expedition into the North, which he made in April 1563. After some slight successes against the adherents of the Ulster chief, Lord Sussex came upon them, and took three thousand cattle and fifteen himdred horses, with which he marched to Drogheda. O'Neill hereupon felt the necessity of renewing his submission, and in return received favours and professions from the politic Elizabeth, which flattered his vanity and for a time postponed hostilities. Li 1566, however, the Lord Deputy Sydney being absent in England, this town was in hazard of being taken by this same O'Neill, but on the urgent request of the Lady Sydney, then residing in Drogheda, Master Sarsfield, Mayor of Dublin, with a chosen and goodly band of his citizens, came to its relief, and baffled the expectations of the enemy. On this occasion George Elcock, Mayor of this town, was accused before Sir William FitzwiUiams of holding a treacherous correspondence with the Irish, and was thereupon committed to the Castle of Dublin. In vindication of English authority, the Deputy, Avithin the same year, accompanied by the Earl of Kildare, set out from

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 91

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Drogheda, a town the road passes through in Louth. Back in 1566 this place was in danger of being taken by O'Neill. The Lord Deputy Sydney was away in England at the time, and Lady Sydney was residing here in Drogheda. She made an urgent request for help, and Master Sarsfield, the Mayor of Dublin, answered it. He brought a chosen band of his citizens to relieve the town, and they baffled the expectations of the enemy. The trouble had been brewing for some years. A suspicious incident had put O'Neill under a cloud. Lord Sussex led an expedition into the North in April 1563, took three thousand cattle and fifteen hundred horses from O'Neill's adherents, and marched to Drogheda with them. O'Neill then renewed his submission and received favours and flattering professions from Queen Elizabeth, which postponed hostilities for a time. But in 1566 the threat returned. On the same occasion that Sarsfield relieved the town, George Elcock, the Mayor of Drogheda, was accused before Sir William Fitzwilliams of holding a treacherous correspondence with the Irish. He was committed to the Castle of Dublin for it.

19. Murder of Excise Surveyor Mr. Pentland in Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1791

    Mr. Pentland, the Surveyor of Excise for the district, was murdered within the town of Drogheda in 1791.

    Read the passage

    rend Doctor Francis Moylan, Roman Catholic Bishop of Cork, in a fiat, with a silver box, as a mark of our esteem for his pious exertions and excellent exhortations to the Roman Catholic inhabitants of bis diocese, for promoting peace and good order at the moment of threatened invasion." In the same year Mr. Pentland, Surveyor of Excise in this district, was most inhumanly and wilfully murdered within the town.

    In 1792, the Assembly instructed their representatives, " that they should, to the utmost of their power, preserve those laws inviolate, by which Protestant ascendancy had been preserved and supported in this kingdom, and oppose any attempt to alter the same, or to destroy that repose and tranquillity under which we have so long lived and prospered." In 1797, the Loyal Drogheda Cavalry was embodied, Ralph Smith, Esq., being selected captain, as was the Loyal Drogheda Infantry, Charles Evans, Esq., to be captain, and W. O. Fairtlough and Launcelot Fisher, Esqs., lieutenants. Several of the inhabitants also formed themselves into a corps of volxmteers. In the disastrous year that succeeded, when a military guard was kept in the Tholsel, the records of the corporation sufiered considerably by an accidental fire that broke out there. It appears, however, creditable to the loyalty of the town, that at the two Assizes of 1799, the number of felons arraigned was but seventeen, of whom one only was tried for sedition, and discharged.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 168

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are travelling the streets where, in 1791, Mr. Pentland, the Surveyor of Excise for this district, was murdered. The town's history records it as a crime done "most inhumanly and wilfully" within the town itself. The years around it were turbulent. In 1792, the Assembly told its representatives to preserve the laws by which, in their words, "Protestant ascendancy had been preserved and supported in this kingdom." In 1797, the Loyal Drogheda Cavalry and the Loyal Drogheda Infantry were both embodied, with Ralph Smith chosen captain of the cavalry and Charles Evans captain of the infantry. Several inhabitants also formed a corps of volunteers. The year that followed brought its own troubles. A military guard was kept in the Tholsel, and an accidental fire broke out there, damaging the corporation's records considerably. Still, at the two Assizes of 1799, only 17 felons were arraigned, and just one was tried for sedition before being discharged.

20. Richard II's 1394 visit and submission of Irish princes at Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1394

    In March 1394 Richard the Second visited Drogheda, where Irish Princes of the North submitted to his paramount authority, an event recorded among the Annals of the Dominican friary.

    Read the passage

    In March, 1394, occurred the interesting visit of Richard the Second to this town, and the submissions of the Irish Princes of the North to his paramount authority, as detailed in an earlier Section of this work, among the Annals of the Dominican friary; but, although during that monarch's sojourn at Waterford, Kilkenny, and Dublin, many royal mandates and patents issued " teste rege," and are of record, none appears executed in Drogheda, unless, perhaps, one, whereby the rights of the Bishop of Meath,and his successors, to the manors of Ardbraccan, Ardcath, &c., were confirmed. In the same year, the mayor and bailiffs of Drogheda were directed, to cause two of their most worthy townsmen, to be elected as their representatives in Parliament, as also to enforce, with especial circumspection, the ordinance against persons passing over sea, from Ireland to foreign parts. In 1399, Richard Gill, deputy collector of the customs of this port, and ranger of the park at Trim during the minority of the Palatine, was taken prisoner by some rebels, in the harbour of Drogheda, immediately after which, James Cottenham had the royal orders to press for state service, certain vessels, with their masters and mariners, between this port and Dalkey(a).

    In 1403, occurs a record of the Prior of Lanth-

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 46

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are in a town where, in March 1394, Richard the Second came and the Irish Princes of the North submitted to his paramount authority. The event is recorded among the Annals of the Dominican friary. Though the king issued many royal mandates and patents during his sojourn at Waterford, Kilkenny, and Dublin, none appears to have been executed in Drogheda, save perhaps one confirming the rights of the Bishop of Meath to the manors of Ardbraccan and Ardcath. That same year, the mayor and bailiffs were directed to elect two worthy townsmen as representatives in Parliament and to enforce the ordinance against persons passing over sea from Ireland to foreign parts. In 1399, Richard Gill, deputy collector of customs and ranger of the park at Trim, was taken prisoner by rebels in the harbour of Drogheda. James Cottenham then received royal orders to press vessels, with their masters and mariners, for state service between this port and Dalkey.

21. Robert Oliver's Predatory Raids Across County Louth

    Collon · town · Louth · 1313

    Robert Oliver was arraigned at Drogheda as an accomplice of Robert de Verdon, charged with predatory acts at Grangethy, Ballygrayney, Collon, Ardpatrick, Athglass, Rathesker, Mollary, Stackbannon, Arthurstown and Drumcar, with cattle spoil valued over £1000.

    Read the passage

    an accomplice of said Robert de Verdon; on which occasion he was especially charged with predatory acts at Grangethy, Ballygrayney, CoUon, Ardpatrick, Athglass,Rathesker, MoUary, Stackbannon, Arthurstown, Drumcar, &c., and with spoil of cattle to the value of £1000, and upwards; of which charges he was found guilty, and delivered as a convict to the custody of the mayor and bailiflFs of Drogheda at the Louth side, by whom he was committed to gaol, but afterwards released on his paying a fine, and inducing the aforesaid Nicholas de Verdon to become surety to the extent of forty shilUngs, for his future good behaviour; Milo de Verdon to the amount of twenty shillings; and Hugh, a burgess of Drogheda, with William Slane, also of Drogheda, to the amount of ten shillings each(a). In the same year, on the petition of " the whole commonalty of the free tenants and others of the county Louth," reciting, that Robert de Verdon and his aforesaid adherents, had so opposed themselves to the royal authority, as if they designed " to appropriate that county to themselves by conquest;" yet that certain individuals of said commonalty had been induced to supply those rebels with provisions; the said commonalty nevertheless obtained a pardon of their so acknowledged offences, on pajTnent of a fine of £50; and similar indulgence was extended to the accomplices of Robert de Verdon himself, with an exception of those who actually slew Nicholas Avenel and the other ro}'ahsts(6).

    (a) Rot Coron. in Benu. Turr. (b) Id.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 32

22. Synod of Kings and Bishops at Mellifont in 1157

    Mellifont · townland · Louth · 1157

    In 1157 a great assembly of prelates and nobles was held at Mellifont, attended by Murtogh O'Loghlen, King of Ireland, Tiernan O'Rourke, O'Carroll and others, together with the Pope's Legate and seventeen bishops; the assembly expelled Donogh O'Melaghlin from the kingdom of Meath.

    Read the passage

    Ireland Christian O'Conarchy, its first abbot, was afterwards made Bishop of Lism<»re. Moore gives a more detailed accoimt of the origin of this establishment " St Malachy," he writes, " at the celebrated Abbey of Clairvauz, formed that friendship with the famous St Bernard, the cordiality of which reflected honour on both, and of which there remains so interesting a memorial in the life of our eminent Bishop, written by St. Bernard. Approvii^ of the system followed at Clairvaux, Malachy had left there some of his companions, to be instructed in the regulations and practice of the establishment, and it was by these Irishmen, on their return to their own country, accompanied by some monks of Clairvaux, that this house was founded"(a). In 1151,Malchus, brother of the first Abbot, appears on records as principal of this house, and in his time, some say, a session of Cardinal Paparo's Synod was held here. In 1 157, a more undoubted and scarcely less remarkable assembly of prelates and nobles was held here. Murtogh OXoghlen, King of Ireland, attended on this occasion, and many of the petty princes, amongst whom are named Tiernan O'Rourke, O'Carroll, &c. while the Pope's Legate, and seventeen Bishops, represented the Irish hierarchy. Amongst the political acts of this body, is recorded their expulsion of Donogh O'Melaghlin, from the kingdom of Meath, and the substitution of his brother over that pro-

    (a) Moore's History of Ireland, vol. ii. p. 190.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 191

23. Thomas Mandeville's relief attacks at Carrickfergus

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1317

    Thomas Mandeville, reinforced with men from Drogheda, attacked the besieging Scots at Carrickfergus twice, killing about thirty on Maundy Thursday and sixty more on Easter eve, but fell himself in the second engagement.

    Read the passage

    Thus, the narrative records the Bruce and all his actions, until his discomfiture and death on the field of Faughart. Some other particulars of this invasion, connected with Drogheda, are mentioned in " Grace's Axmals," which have been lately published by the Irish Archaeological Society, with the learned editorship of the Reverend Richard Butler of Trim. The account of the fight at Carrickfergus there given, says : " Thomas Mandeville, with more men from Drogheda, attacked the Scots in Carrickfergus, and put them to flight, having kiUed about thirty on Maundy Thursday ; and again attacking them on Easter eve, he slew sixty of them, but fell himself in the conflict, fighting in his own country, and for his own rights." In July of the same year.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 33

24. Trial and acquittal of Roger Outlawe, Prior of Kilmainham

    Kilmainham · townland · Dublin · 1328

    Roger Outlawe, accused of heresy alongside Arnold le Poer, requested and was granted an opportunity to clear himself before the Council; after proclamation for three days brought no accuser forward, a royal writ summoned Ireland's leading men including the Mayor of Drogheda, and six examiners acquitted him.

    Read the passage

    In 1328, Arnold le Poer was accused by the Bishop of Ossory of heresy, at which time, the Bishop also accused Roger Outlawe, Prior of Kilmainham, as Arnold's coimsellor, and a partaker of the same pernicious doctrines. Roger (relates Grace, in his Annals) asked from the Council an opportimity to clear himself, which was granted; and for three successive days proclamation was made, that if any one wished to prosecute the accusation, he should appear, but no one came forward to substantiate the charges. Pembridge, in his Annals, adds, " that when no one answered this proclamation, the Bishop obtained a royal writ, summoning * Majores Hibemiae,' viz. the bishops, abbots, priors, and the four mayors of the four cities, Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Waterford, and the mayor of Drogheda, and the sheriffs, seneschals, and knights of the counties, with the best county freemen, and that six examiners were thereupon chosen, in whose presence, on evidence, Roger Outlawe was acquitted." Arnold le Poer died in the lent of the same year, and was long denied the rites of Christian burial. In 1330, as is noticed in the Irish Annals, the Boyne so overflowed its channel, as to carry away all its bridges, not only the wooden, but even those of stone. In the following year, the grant of the prisage of wines here, was confirmed to

    (a) Rot in Cane Hib. VOL. n. G

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 37

25. William surveys the field from Tullyallen

    Tullyallen · town · Louth · 1690

    William observed the eminences of Tullyallen and rode to their summit with his officers to survey the Irish army's positions across the Boyne, viewing Drogheda, the Irish camp, and the village of Donore.

    Read the passage

    it was his interest, to bring the contest to an immediate decision ; and, on the last day of June, 1690, at dawn of morning, he moved his army forward in three columns towards the Bojme. After refreshing his troops out of view of the Irish, at the back of the eminence now occupied by Townley-hall, and where the stone, on which himself breakfasted, is still traditionally pointed out, he placed himself at the head of his advanced guard, and passing through the glen, that seemed to open an avenue for him, and which is still popularly styled King William's glen ; he appeared, by nine o'clock, within two miles of Drogheda, on a no less favourable field for disposing his forces, in front of the fords of Oldbridge. Observing the eminences of Tullyallen at his left, he rode to their summit, with his principal officers, to take a view of the enemy. On their right, full in view, was their then friendly town of Drogheda, filled with Irish soldiers ; westward of the town, on the further banks of the river, their camp extended in two lines, with a morass on the left, difficult to be passed; in their front was that tongue of land^ bounded by the Boyne, which afterwards became the field of the fiercest fight; while the Boyne itself, there, in mostplaces deep and dangerous with rugged banks, was yet further defended by breast works, and margined with huts and hedges, convenient to be lined with infantry; on the hill at their rear, appeared the church and village of Donore, but other eminences to the south-west, intercepted any further view of

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 144

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Tullyallen, you are crossing ground that William chose as a lookout on the last day of June, 1690. He had moved his army forward in three columns towards the Boyne, refreshed his troops behind the eminence now occupied by Townley-hall, and passed through the glen still called King William's glen. By nine o'clock he was within two miles of Drogheda. Observing the eminences of Tullyallen on his left, he rode to their summit with his principal officers to survey the enemy. From there the view was wide. Drogheda stood full in view, filled with Irish soldiers. Westward of the town, on the far bank of the Boyne, the Irish camp extended in two lines with a morass on their left. In front lay the tongue of land bounded by the river that afterwards became the field of the fiercest fight. The Boyne itself, deep and dangerous with rugged banks, was further defended by breastworks and lined with huts and hedges. On the hill at the Irish rear appeared the church and village of Donore, though other eminences to the south-west cut off any further view.

26. Bloody Fight at Balrothery

    Balrothery · townland · Dublin · 1647

    Sir Henry Tichburne marched out of Drogheda with his son and about forty officers and gentlemen when they were surprised by an Irish horse party near Balrothery. Tichburne was badly wounded, his son slain, and Lieutenant Colonel Trevor of Carlingford also killed, while several officers were taken prisoner.

    Read the passage

    into thq county of Cavan, and by the break of day on the following morning, they fell into Owen Roe O'Neiirs Greats of the Ulster men; took two of the O'Reillys prisoners, and one M*Dawlie, three gentlemen of very good note, and leading men amongst the rebels; killed twenty-five, for they stood not one quarter of an hour, but ran into a bog; took 14 troop horses, 500 cows, 1000 sheep, and 250 plough horses; this is the third piece of service his regiment hath done. In the July following, Colonel Sir Henry Tichbume having marched out of this town, with his son, and " divers colonels, majors, and gentlemen of note, about forty in number, all officers and others of very good quality," were surprised by a horse party of the Irishry, near Balrothery; Sir Henry was badly wounded, his son was slain, as also Lieutenant Colonel Trevor, of Carlingford, and a few more, while Major Gore, Major Gibson, and others were taken prisoners(a).

    In Jime, 1649, the Marquess of Ormond, having received intelligence that the parliamentary general, Jones, had sent the greatest part of his horse to Drogheda, " from whence," vnites the Earl of Clarendon, " he would have been able to distress Ormond in various ways, and particularly by intercepting provisions from the country, despatched Lord Inchiquin, with a strong party of horse, to follow them, which he did with such success, that he s\ir-

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 118

27. Caillemotte's traditional grave at Oldbridge

    Oldbridge · townland · Meath · 1690

    Caillemotte, who served under Schomberg, found a humble grave at Oldbridge, still traditionally pointed out as a well-preserved mound between two old elms within the Coddington demesne.

    Read the passage

    be buried without a coffin to save charges." Receiving no answer to this or his other applications, with the sanction of his Chapter in full assembly, the Dean caused a large slab of black marble to be erected in the Cathedral, with an inscription much to the effect which he threatened. King William after the battle created his son Count Schomberg (who so signalized himself on the eventfiil field), Baron of Tara, Earl of Bangor, and Duke of Leinster, all which Irish honours became extinct by his death without male issue. — Caillemotte, who had served Schomberg in most of his campaigns, found an humbler grave, which is still traditionally pointed out as a well-preserved mound, between two old elms, within Mr. Coddington's classic demesne at Oldbridge. In his instance, also. King William's gratitude was evinced in the person of his elder brother, the Marshal Ruvigny, on whom he conferred the command of Schomberg's regiment of horse. — Doctor George Walker, rendered famous for his defence of Londonderry, had been, in 1662, instituted to the rectories of Donaghmore and Erregal-Keerogue, in the county Tyrone. On the revolution he threw aside the gown, raised a regiment to maintain King William's cause, early threw himself into Deny to promote that object, was chosen its governor, and by his eminent services effected the raising of the siege. After that event he passed over to England, where he was graciously received by their Majesties, obtained the thanks of the House of

    332 GENERAL HISTOBT.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 150

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Oldbridge, there's a grave that's still traditionally pointed out, a well-preserved mound between two old elms in what was Mr. Coddington's demesne. It belongs to Caillemotte, who served under Schomberg in most of his campaigns and fell at the battle in 1690. His resting place was far humbler than Schomberg's own memorial. King William's gratitude reached Caillemotte's family through his elder brother, Marshal Ruvigny, who was given command of Schomberg's regiment of horse.

28. Carlingford exempted from taxes due to exposure to Irish and Scottish raids

    Carlingford · town · Louth · 1410

    In 1410, Carlingford's provost, bailiffs and commons petitioned the king, representing that the town lay exposed between mountains and sea and was often plundered and burned by the Irish and Scots; the king granted a temporary exemption from subsidies and military service.

    Read the passage

    as well as the custody of Walter Hore's estates in Collon, county Louth. In 1410, on the memorial of this individual, jointly with the provost, bailiffs, and commons of the town of Carlingford, and the other tenants of the lordship of Coly, representing that the said town lay in a valley between the mountains and the sea, in front of the marches of the county Louth, and contained only 20 carucates of lowland, and that by reason of this its exposed state, it was often plundered and burned by the Irish and Scots, the king granted, that for a certain number of years, the borough should be firee from all subsidies, taUiages, and military services. In 1422, he was constituted Chief Baron of the Exchequer, in which character he presided in the above commission].

    In 1429, the vicinity of Drogheda, and the whole county of Louth, having been for some time previously wasted by the Irish, whose incursions could not be restrained, from the defect of castles and fortresses on the marches, it was enacted that every liege man of the king, who would, within five years, build a castle or tower there, twenty feet in length, sixty in breadth, and forty in height, should receive ten pounds in aid of the imdertaking, to be assessed in the way of subsidy, off said county. But this boon failing to meet the exigence, Parliament, upon the supplication of the commonalty of that county, authorized the sheriff thereof to compel the attendance of all labourers for eight days, in each of the three successive years, to be employed in the erec-

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 51

29. Cormac mac Airt buried on the banks of the Boyne

    near River Boyne · river · Kildare

    The great historic figure Cormac, son of Art, spent his final years in retirement near Kells and was reputedly buried on the banks of the Boyne. Around the same time, Fingal was said to have been slain with arrows on its margin.

    Read the passage

    The principal Annals of this historic river, as connected with Drogheda, have been already alluded to, and shall therefore be here but briefly referred to. At the time of the birth of our Saviour, according to all the annalists, it was blessed with a preeminent superabundance offish, while peace and happiness are alike recorded to have rejoiced this then isle of the Gentiles. In the second century Ptolemy of Pelusium, the geographer, who avowedly derived his information of Ireland from the Phoenician merchants that frequented its ports, marks the Boyne on his map by the name of Buvinda, a term which Baxter, in his Glossary, would have to signify the river of the white cows, while many other etymologists rely on derivations as inexplicable as dissentient. At the close of the third century that great ornament of Irish history, Cormac, the son of Art, the warrior, legislator, moralist and philosopher, having spent the evening of his days in a retirement near Kells, is stated to have been buried on the banks of the Boyne, and about the same time Fingal was, according to the Annals of the Four Masters, slain with arrows on its margin.

    St Patrick, on his landing at Colpe, proceeded along the southern bank of this river to Slane, while Jocelin, the monk of Furnes, in his life of that Saint, states that Luman immediately afterwards sailed up with a favourable wind, but without oars, against

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 176

30. Dominican Friar John O'Heyn Expelled from Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1678–1698

    John O'Heyn, a Dominican friar and master of novices at the Drogheda convent, was forced to leave the town due to the anti-Catholic expulsion order, later returning to Ireland before being expatriated again in 1698 and dying in exile at Louvain.

    Read the passage

    Lord Lieutenant and Council, by their letter ordered the Popish inhabitants to be removed from Galway, Limerick, Waterford, Clonmel, Kilkenny, and Drogheda, except some few trading merchants, artificers, and others necessary for the said towns and garrisons^ and by virtue thereof many were expelled ; but by the stupidity of the Protestants, and at their request, and upon their security, the Papists were readmitted into these towns"(a). An individual of the name of John O'Heyn, was one of those who, in consequence of this intolerant tyranny, were obliged to withdraw from this town. He was by birth of Galway, became a Dominican friar of the convent of Athenry, thence pursued his studies at Burgos, and afterwards at Salamanca ; taught philosophy in France and Louvain, and then was made master of the novices in the convent of his order in this town. On his expulsion from Drogheda, he betook himself again to Louvain, whence, after some years of exile^ he returned to Ireland, and, continuing there during eight years, was again expatriated in 1698, and appears to have soon afterwards closed his life, as chronologer of his order, in the Irish College at Louvain.

    In order to control prconiscuous mendicancy and

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 131

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, this is a town that once turned out its Catholic inhabitants. Lord Lieutenant and Council ordered the removal of Popish inhabitants from several towns including Drogheda, allowing only a few trading merchants and artificers to remain. Many were expelled, though the Papists were later readmitted at the request and on the security of the Protestants themselves. Among those forced to withdraw was John O'Heyn, a Dominican friar and master of novices at the convent here. He was born in Galway, joined the convent of Athenry, studied at Burgos and Salamanca, and taught philosophy in France and Louvain before coming to Drogheda. After his expulsion he went back to Louvain, then returned to Ireland and stayed for 8 years, before being expatriated again in 1698. He died in exile as chronologer of his order at the Irish College in Louvain.

31. Drogheda archers muster at Ardee before battle

    Ardee · townland · Louth · 1470

    The mayor of Drogheda selected 500 archers and 200 pole-axe men who marched to Ardee, where they were joined by Sir Robert Taaffe with 70 horse, and the Primate gave his benediction before the march to battle.

    Read the passage

    of this town, at the instigation of the Archbishop of Armagh, selected 500 archers, and 200 pole-axe men, marched to Ardee, where he was joined by Sir Robert TaafFc, with 70 horse. The Primate being of the party, thereupon caused them to halt imtil he said a solemn mass, and gave the people his benediction, immediately on receiving which they marched to Corbally, near Malpas bridge, when a desperate engagement ensued, in which O'Reilly was defeated with the loss of 400 of his men. This battle, says Sir James Ware, was narrated in the " Register of the Mayors of Drogheda," and from it he professed to extract his accoimt; but the venerable muniment is no longer forthcoming. In commemoration of this signal service to the state, as it was deemed, King Edward gave to this corporation a sword, to be carried before the mayor, and an annual sum of £20, towards the maintenance of the dignity. In 1471, William Crumpe and Thomas Barby were appointed Masters of the mint in the castles of Dublin and Trim, and in the town of Drogheda; but in three years afterwards were displaced, when Richard Heron was appointed for life master and worker of the mint within said places, and elsewhere in Ireland. In 1472, on the feast of St Jerome, the bridge of Drogheda is recorded to have fallen down in consequence of a flood. In the same year, the Earl of Kildare, as deputy to the Duke of Clarence, convened a Parliament at Naas, which was adjourned to Dublin, wherein an Act was passed prohibiting the ex-

    GENERAL HISTORY. I6l

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 75

32. Laurence Sterne's childhood in Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1713

    Laurence Sterne, born in 1713, spent a short period of his childhood in Drogheda before his family removed to Mullingar.

    Read the passage

    About this time, Henry Jones, a poetical and dramatic writer of some repute, was bom at Bewly near this town. In a little History of Drogheda, published by a Mr. Johnston in 1826, it is mentioned, that the celebrated Earl of Chesterfield, when Lord Lieutenant of teland, having resided part of his time at Bewly, extended very liberal encouragement to this person, who theretofore laboured in the humble occupation of a bricklayer. The Earl soon became acquainted with his talents as a poet, and took him into patronage, and even, it is said, not only volunteered to correct his tragedy of " The Earl of Essex," and prevailed upon the managers of Covent- Garden to bring it out on the stage, but likewise shared his purse with him. Jones frequently dined with the Earl, and was at last taken into his house as a companion. He encouraged him to go up to Dublin, and afterwards brought him with him to England, where he continued to befriend him. Prior to taking leave of his native place, Jones addressed a poetical epistle to the corporation, giving them some advice for the better regulation of the town, which they thought right to adopt, and rewarded him with a present of twenty pounds. This imfortunate individual, however, regardless of ordinary economy, after experiencing many reverses of fortune, which his own imprudence brought upon him, died in a London workhouse in 1770. Another more celebrated individual, Laurence Sterne, who was bom in 1713, passed, as appears from his letters,

    360 . GENERAL mSTOBT.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 163

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Drogheda, in Louth, this is the town where Laurence Sterne, born in 1713, passed some part of his early years, as his own letters record. The book gives more of another man connected with the town. Henry Jones, a poetical and dramatic writer, was born at Bewly, near Drogheda. He laboured first in the humble occupation of a bricklayer. The Earl of Chesterfield, when Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, resided part of his time at Bewly and came to know Jones. He recognised his talents as a poet and took him into patronage. The Earl volunteered to correct Jones's tragedy, "The Earl of Essex," and prevailed upon the managers of Covent Garden to bring it out on the stage. He likewise shared his purse with him. Jones frequently dined with the Earl and was at last taken into his house as a companion. The Earl encouraged him to go up to Dublin and afterwards brought him to England, where he continued to befriend him. Before leaving his native place, Jones addressed a poetical epistle to the corporation of Drogheda, giving them advice for the better regulation of the town. They thought it right to adopt it and rewarded him with a present of 20 pounds. This unfortunate individual, regardless of ordinary economy, experienced many reverses of fortune through his own imprudence and died in a London workhouse in 1770. The book then turns to Laurence Sterne, born in 1713, who passed, as appears from his letters, part of his childhood in this town.

33. Right wing crosses the Boyne at Slane unopposed

    Slane · townland · Meath · 1690

    On 1 July 1690, William's right wing under Count Schomberg and General Douglas marched towards Slane, the key of James's position, but crossed the river without opposition, catching the Irish defenders by surprise.

    Read the passage

    Early on the following morning, Tuesday (July 1st), " the day being," as Story says, " very clear, as if the sun itself had a mind to see what would happen," the right wing, the cavalry of which was commanded by Count Schomberg, and the infantry by General Douglas, marched towards Slane, which should have been considered the key of King James's position, and, therefore, the earliest, and best guarded, but to their surprise, they were even permitted to cross the river without any opposition, and, although they were met on the other side by Sir Neill O'Neill's regiment of dragoons, which, on a partial adoption

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 146

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, on the morning of 1 July 1690, William's right wing marched towards Slane. Count Schomberg led the cavalry and General Douglas the infantry. Slane should have been the key to King James's position, the best-guarded crossing of the Boyne. But to their surprise, they were permitted to cross the river without any opposition. On the far side they met Sir Neill O'Neill's regiment of dragoons, though that resistance was only partial.

34. Robert Oliver Committed to Drogheda Gaol

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1313

    Robert Oliver, found guilty of extensive predatory acts, was delivered as a convict to the custody of the mayor and bailiffs of Drogheda at the Louth side, who committed him to gaol before he was later released on payment of a fine and sureties.

    Read the passage

    an accomplice of said Robert de Verdon; on which occasion he was especially charged with predatory acts at Grangethy, Ballygrayney, CoUon, Ardpatrick, Athglass,Rathesker, MoUary, Stackbannon, Arthurstown, Drumcar, &c., and with spoil of cattle to the value of £1000, and upwards; of which charges he was found guilty, and delivered as a convict to the custody of the mayor and bailiflFs of Drogheda at the Louth side, by whom he was committed to gaol, but afterwards released on his paying a fine, and inducing the aforesaid Nicholas de Verdon to become surety to the extent of forty shilUngs, for his future good behaviour; Milo de Verdon to the amount of twenty shillings; and Hugh, a burgess of Drogheda, with William Slane, also of Drogheda, to the amount of ten shillings each(a). In the same year, on the petition of " the whole commonalty of the free tenants and others of the county Louth," reciting, that Robert de Verdon and his aforesaid adherents, had so opposed themselves to the royal authority, as if they designed " to appropriate that county to themselves by conquest;" yet that certain individuals of said commonalty had been induced to supply those rebels with provisions; the said commonalty nevertheless obtained a pardon of their so acknowledged offences, on pajTnent of a fine of £50; and similar indulgence was extended to the accomplices of Robert de Verdon himself, with an exception of those who actually slew Nicholas Avenel and the other ro}'ahsts(6).

    (a) Rot Coron. in Benu. Turr. (b) Id.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 32

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are on the ground of a gaol that once held Robert Oliver, an accomplice of Robert de Verdon. In 1313 Oliver was found guilty of predatory acts across a string of places, including Grangethy, Collon, Ardpatrick, Drumcar and others, with cattle spoiled to the value of £1000 and upwards. He was delivered as a convict to the mayor and bailiffs of Drogheda at the Louth side, who committed him to gaol. He was later released on paying a fine and producing sureties for his future good behaviour. Nicholas de Verdon stood surety for forty shillings, Milo de Verdon for twenty, and Hugh, a burgess of Drogheda, together with William Slane, for ten shillings each. That same year the whole commonalty of the free tenants of county Louth petitioned the authorities, reciting that Robert de Verdon and his adherents had opposed themselves to the royal authority, as if they designed to appropriate that county to themselves by conquest. The commonalty obtained a pardon on payment of a fine of £50, and a similar indulgence was extended to the accomplices of Robert de Verdon, excepting those who actually slew Nicholas Avenel and the other royalists.

35. Sally from St Laurence's gate to Greenhills for corn

    Greenhills · street · Louth · 1641

    With the garrison suffering privation early in the siege, 350 foot and two troops of horse sallied from St Laurence's gate to escort carts bringing corn from the townland of Greenhills, encountering and defeating the enemy on the riverbank with the loss of two hundred of the enemy force.

    Read the passage

    It is not, therefore, to be wondered that, even at so early a period of the siege as the 3rd of December, the privations of the garrison demanded a sally; when 350 foot, and two troops of horse, having issued from St Laurence's gate, to escort some cars that were directed to bring in com from the adjacent townland of Greenhills, encountered the enemy on

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 102

    As the companion tells it

    Along here at Greenhills, on the 3rd of December 1641, the besieged garrison was already suffering privation. Three hundred and fifty foot and two troops of horse sallied from St Laurence's gate to escort carts bringing corn from this townland. They met the enemy on the riverbank and defeated them, with the loss of two hundred of the enemy force.

36. Seizure of muskets near Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1789

    A consignment of muskets and bayonets sent from Dublin's ordnance stores for the 46th regiment at Newry was intercepted about a mile and a half from Drogheda by a crowd who broke open the chest and carried off the arms.

    Read the passage

    tion and mercantile importance. Amongst these were accounts of the quantity of coal and culm imported thither within the last ten years, the quantity of com sold in the market in the same interval; the produce of the tolls and customs for the last year; the tonnage of the ships and other vessels, which had in that year arrived in, or sailed out of the port, &c. In the June of the same year, when a quantity of muskets and bayonets was despatched from the ordnance stores in Dublin, for the use of the 46th regiment of foot, then quartered in Newry, they were, about a mile and a half from this town, surroimded by a number of people, who seized and broke open the chest in which the arms were packed, and carried off the whole consignment In 1790, the centenary of the battle of the Boyne was celebrated here with much ceremony; the commemoration lasted a week, every gentleman of the town and vicinity contributing to defray the expenses of superb processions, fire works, assemblies, an open theatre, and liberal hospitality. An indifierent room in the main street was generally let at ten guineas during the exhibition. Immediately afterwards, a meeting of the Roman Catholic inhabitants of the town was convened, to elect representative Delegates for the general Committee in Dublin, whereof Hugh Hamill, Wilham Bellew, and Malachy O'Connor, were requested to accept the trust. In 1791, with creditable feelings, the corporation resolved unanimously that the freedom of their body should be granted " to the Reve-

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 167

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, this is the town near which, in June 1789, a crowd intercepted a consignment of muskets and bayonets about a mile and a half away. The arms had been sent from the ordnance stores in Dublin for the 46th regiment of foot, then quartered in Newry. The people surrounded the chest, broke it open, and carried off the whole consignment.

37. Sir Arthur Aston appointed governor of Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1649

    Ormond placed Sir Arthur Aston, an experienced continental soldier, as governor of Drogheda with a garrison of about 2000 foot and 300 horse to defend against Cromwell's expected attack. Ormond had ordered the town be burned if it could not be held, an order Aston did not obey.

    Read the passage

    the Declaration of Jame8town(a), " we were to be on the defensive part of the war, and that he would draw forth suddenly, to recover those places we had gained, and first, we were assured, he purposed to attempt Drogheda. We, therefore, applied our utmost industry, to supply that place with what it wanted, placed in it Sir Arthur Aston, as expert and gallant a governor as we could wish for, gave him the same men, and the same number of men, horse and foot that he desired, and furnished him with the full proportion of ammunition, and other provisions, that he demanded, judging, that if Cromwell could be there foiled, or kept before it but for a time, it would much advantage us that had so lately received so great a blow, as required time to recover, and the rebels, in the neck of it, having received so great a countenance and strength as Cromwell brought with him, being the best of the rebels' old army in England."

    Within a very short interval of his debarkation, Cromwell proceeded from Dublin, and on the 3rd of September sat down before this town, in considerable strength, having sent his cannon and provisions by sea. Ormond, convinced of his design, had sent orders to the governor, to burn the town, destroy the fortifications, and to drive all the cattle before him from the surrounding country, and then secure himself, with those under his guidance, in some other

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 120

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Drogheda, this is the town Ormond prepared against Cromwell in 1649. The Declaration of Jamestown said they were on the defensive, and they were assured Cromwell purposed first to attempt Drogheda. They applied their utmost industry to supply the place with what it wanted. They placed in it Sir Arthur Aston, an experienced continental soldier, "as expert and gallant a governor as we could wish for." They gave him the same men, and the same number of men, horse and foot, that he desired, about 2000 foot and 300 horse, and furnished him with the full proportion of ammunition and other provisions that he demanded. Their reasoning was plain: if Cromwell could be foiled there, or kept before it but for a time, it would much advantage them. They had so lately received so great a blow as required time to recover, and the rebels had received great countenance and strength, Cromwell bringing with him the best of the rebels' old army in England. Within a very short interval of his debarkation, Cromwell proceeded from Dublin and on the 3 of September sat down before this town in considerable strength, having sent his cannon and provisions by sea. Ormond, convinced of his design, had sent orders to the governor to burn the town, destroy the fortifications, and drive all the cattle before him from the surrounding country, and then secure himself with those under his guidance in some other place.

38. Sir Phelim O'Neill's final repulsed assault on Drogheda

    Bewley · townland · Waterford · 1642

    Sir Phelim O'Neill returned from the North with reinforcements to his headquarters at Bewley and made a further attempt to take Drogheda by scalade, but was repulsed with such loss that he never again risked an assault on the town.

    Read the passage

    A proclamation of the State, dated 8th of February, which had been sent in the ships that brought the supply, was immediately afterwards fixed up in the market place. It offered sums of money for the respective heads of particular individuals therein named, " wherein," adds Bernard, " the prices, set upon each of their heads, were far beyond their worth; Sir Phelim O'Neiirs was valued at £1000, Reilly and others at £800, and the rest of them at £400." The Reilly here alluded to had been high sheriff of the county Cavan, " formerly writing himself Miles Reilly, but having, with the shaking off of his obedience to the English government, cast off what might in his name sound English, he was then known by the name of Mulmore Mac Edmund O'Reilly." Philip Mac Hugh Mac Shane O'Reilly was, however, at this time, the head of the sept of the O'Reillys, and in Parliament represented that county, which was the ancient inheritance of his family. On the morning, that succeeded the arrival of the aforesaid supplies. Sir Phelim O'Neill, having returned with forty horse,

    240 GENERAL HISTORY.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 107

39. Wager of battle decided within the walls of Drogheda, 1278

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1278

    A legal suit between Galfridus de Prendergast and Paganus de Hynteberg over an estate in County Limerick was decided in 1278 by wager of battle within the walls of Drogheda, with the defendant's champion adjudged recreant and fined.

    Read the passage

    confirmation firom the same monarch, in 1253. In 1250, the Deanery of Drogheda was, with those of Ardee and Dundalk, and the church of Louth, disunited from the diocese of Clogher, and annexed to the See of Armagh. The year 1269 is commemorated in the Annals for such hurricanes as " prostrated houses, churches, and woods, and drowned many ships." A suit, sometime afterwards instituted between Galfridus de Prendergast and Paganus de Hynteberg, concerning an estate in the county of Limerick, was decided in 1278, by wager of battle within the walls of this town, when, the appellant's champion succeeding, the defendant's (William de Alneto), was adjudged recreant, and subjected to a fine, while the lands in dispute were immediately assigned to the former(a). Apipe-roll return of 1282,

    (a) The proceedings on this occasion are recorded in a Plea Roll of 4 Edw. I., in the Exchequer. Another of 8 Edw. L records a similar wager of battle in Dublin, between Osbert Furlong and Laurence Cas; and appeals of treason, on the same principle, became at last so frequent among the inhabitants of the Pale, that Parliament was obliged to interfere to repress them, as noticed post at 1460; this legislative interposition being then more especially necessitated by an appeal of treason, which the Earl of Ormond brought against the Prior of Kilmainham, in 1446, when a day was appointed for its determination at Smithfield, then the usual scene of such barbarous conflicts. On this occasion it is recorded, that, while Ormond obtained pennission to remove to the neighbourhood of Smithfield " for his breathing and more ease," and to be trained for the encounter ; the Prior, no less resolved, submitted himself to learn the passes of arms from Philip Trehare, a fishmonger of London, who received a gratuity from the King, as

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 26

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are in a town where, in 1278, a legal dispute was settled not in court but by single combat. Galfridus de Prendergast and Paganus de Hynteberg had been fighting over an estate in County Limerick, and the case was decided by wager of battle within the walls of this town. Each man put forward a champion. The appellant's champion won the fight, and the defendant's champion, William de Alneto, was adjudged recreant and fined. The disputed lands were immediately assigned to the victor's side. The proceedings are recorded in a Plea Roll of 4 Edward I, held in the Exchequer. Wager of battle was not unique to Drogheda. A similar combat took place in Dublin between Osbert Furlong and Laurence Cas, recorded in a plea roll of 8 Edward I. In time, appeals of treason decided by combat became so frequent among the inhabitants of the Pale that Parliament had to step in to repress them. One notable case came in 1446, when the Earl of Ormond brought an appeal of treason against the Prior of Kilmainham. A day was set for the fight at Smithfield in London, then the usual scene of such combats. Ormond was permitted to move near Smithfield, as the record says, for his breathing and more ease, and to train for the encounter. The Prior, equally resolved, learned the passes of arms from Philip Trehare, a fishmonger of London, who received a gratuity from the King.

40. Brehon Law Eric Defence in Murder Trial at Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1300–1320

    A trial at Drogheda involved a defendant relying on the right to tender the eric or fine sanctioned by Brehon law as satisfaction for murder, since the crime occurred in remote parts of Waterford outside the Pale. This illustrates the divided legal status of native Irish under English rule.

    Read the passage

    own Brehon code, and would only be judged thereby; it might, therefore, be deemed an unproductive policy, to permit them, as they sometimes sought, to obtain the benefit of English law where it was for their advantage, without requiring them, in reciprocity, to relinquish the irreconcileable peculiarities of their own; a conclusion which is even better evinced by the record of the 4th year of Edward the Second^ which Mr. O'ConneU also cites from Davis, to support his next position, "that an Irishman was equally unprotected in his person as in his property." That record furnishes an express instance of a defendant relying upon the. right to tender the eric or fine which the Brehon law sanctioned, as a satisfaction for murder, in his exculpation, especially as the crime was, in that case, committed in the remote parts of Waterford, without the Pale. The subsequent remarks and proofs of Mr. O'Connell to this point, seem open to the same explanation, and refer to trials that took place outside the Pale, where the Judges in Eyre were directed, as it was repeatedly besought by the natives, to conform their judgments as much as possible to the national usages. The five royal septs were, however at once, as above, admitted and m§,de little short of denizens, while other individuals were, on professing an unreserved allegiance, allowed to take out " a license to use the English law," and be thenceforth as on an equality in civil privileges with the five septs. The number of this class was, however, decidedly very small, as the great

    GENERAL mSTORY. 57

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 29

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are in a town that once held a remarkable trial. In the 4th year of Edward the Second, a defendant stood trial here and relied on the right to tender the eric, the fine that Brehon law sanctioned as satisfaction for murder. He did so because the crime had been committed in the remote parts of Waterford, outside the Pale, where native Irish lived under their own Brehon code and were judged by it. The case shows the divided legal world of the time. Irish people outside the Pale were sometimes left unprotected in person and property under English law, yet they sometimes sought the benefit of English law where it suited them. Judges in Eyre were directed, as the natives repeatedly asked, to conform their judgments as much as possible to national usages in trials outside the Pale. The five royal septs were admitted as little short of denizens, and other individuals could profess allegiance and take out a license to use English law, gaining civil privileges on a par with those septs. But that class remained very small.

41. 1649 Storming and Recapture of Drogheda Recorded in Down Survey

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1649

    The Down Survey abstract of 1657 records that Drogheda was gained by the Irish in 1649 but soon regained by storm the same year, with 5000 men slain and the churches blown up during the assault.

    Read the passage

    In the Abstract of that map of the Down Survey, which was made here in 1657, a very interesting description of this town occurs, where, speaking of the barony of Duleek, it is written: " This barony hath scaped very well from depopulation, during the late wars, by reason diat it hath been defended by an eminent city and garrison, called Drogheda, This city is a very remarkable place for trade, it being the passport to the northern parts of Ireland. It is situated very pleasantly on the mouth of the river Boyne, where she pays tribute to her mother, the main ocean. This city is built of stone low houses, very decent, part whereof is situated on the north side of the river, and part on the south, over which there is a very fair stone bridge. There stood two very fair churches in it, one called St. Peter's, and the other St. Paul's, which were in good repair, until the late troublesome times ; St. Peter s church stands on the north side of the bridge, and the other on the south. It hath been several times besieged since the war. It was once gained by the Irish, in 1649, but it was soon after, in the same year, regained by storm, when there were 5000 men slain, at which time, it happened, that the churches were blown up. There is a market kept there once a week, which happens on Saturdays. It affords great stores of provisions, linen, yarn, and cloth. The north part of this barony is meared with a very fine river, called the Boyne, which takes its rise out of the King's County. Through the midst of this barony there

    '^^^^^t'^:^:u;?j

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 126

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up on Drogheda, the town on the mouth of the river Boyne, where the river pays tribute to the main ocean. The Down Survey of 1657 called it an eminent city and garrison, and a remarkable place for trade, the passport to the northern parts of Ireland. It was built of stone low houses, decent, part on the north side of the river and part on the south, joined by a fair stone bridge. There stood two churches in it, St. Peter's on the north side of the bridge and St. Paul's on the south, both in good repair until the late troublesome times. The survey says the barony of Duleek around it scaped very well from depopulation during the wars, by reason that it had been defended by this garrison. The town was besieged several times since the war. In 1649 it was gained by the Irish, but soon after, in the same year, it was regained by storm. The survey records that 5000 men were slain, and at that time the churches were blown up. There was a market kept there once a week, on Saturdays, affording great stores of provisions, linen, yarn, and cloth. The Boyne, a fine river, meared the north part of the barony and takes its rise out of the King's County.

42. Ballymakenny occupied by O'Neill's adherents during siege of Drogheda

    Ballymakenny · townland · Louth · 1641–1649

    At the time when O'Neill besieged Drogheda, the townland of Ballymakenny was occupied by his adherents, leading afterward to the confiscation of lands from forfeiting proprietors Adam Moore and William Plunkett.

    Read the passage

    Benefices of Ulster," mentions, in relation to Ballymakenny : " Item. Edmund Morgan, gentleman, holdeth for sixty years the rectory of Balljrmakenny, being bound to pay 6s. 8rf. foraheriot, and said Edmund is to repair and maintain the edifices and buildings of the said rectory, and also that portion of the parish church of Ballymakenny, as the parson, minister, or rector of the said parish church ought to do;" the rent to which this Morgan was then subject, was £4 10s. annually. At the time when O'Neill besieged Drogheda, Balljrmakenny was occupied by his adherents, and, in the confiscations consequent upon that civil war, the forfeiting proprietors in this parish were Adam Moore of Drogheda, to the extent of 157 acres of Tullyesker (which were afterwards granted to Erasmus Smith), and William Plunkett, eighty-one acres of Cottrelstown, which passed to Sir William Tichburne. Of the lands, that were afterwards forfeited within the parish imder similar circumstances in the war of 1689, and sold by the trustees, maps are preserved in the office of the Vice- Treasurer. In 1748, the Archbishop demised the parsonage, rectory, and tithes of Ballymakenny to Brabazon Eccleston; and in 1785, the parish was erected into a perpetual cure, immediately after which, the glebe-house was built, at an expense of £668 British.

    Partly within this parish, and partly in that of St. Peter's of Drogheda, is situated Listoke, the residence of Lieutenant-Colonel Battersby. This town-

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog

43. Boyne relics preserved in Drogheda Tholsel and nearby houses

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1690–1844

    Kettle-drums captured from James's army were preserved in the Tholsel of Drogheda; the sword of King William was kept at Townley Hall, and the stained buff jerkin he wore when wounded was preserved at Mr. Thompson's of Ravensdale.

    Read the passage

    It must not be omitted, that memorials of another character are also confidently produced, in testimony of the achievements of this day. In the Tholsel of Drogheda, as before mentioned, are preserved kettle-drums that were captured from James; in Townley Hall is the sword of the victorious monarch; and at Mr. Thompson's of Ravensdale, the lacerated and stained buff jerkin which he wore, when the ball grazed his shoulder.

    It is also to be noted, that, consequent upon the coming of King William into Ireland and this victory of the Boyne, various medals were struck, of which, plates and descriptions are given in " Histoire de Guillaume 3, par N. Chevalier." Of the former class, one represents a unicorn as bounding from

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 152

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are in a town that once held relics of the Battle of the Boyne. Kettle-drums captured from James's army were preserved in the TholseI of Drogheda. King William's sword was kept at Townley Hall, and the lacerated and stained buff jerkin he wore when a ball grazed his shoulder was held at Mr. Thompson's of Ravensdale. After the victory, various medals were struck, with plates and descriptions given in "Histoire de Guillaume 3" by N. Chevalier.

44. Deputy restores O'Donnell to Ballyshannon and Donegal

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1566

    On a military excursion from Drogheda through Ulster to Connaught, the Deputy restored O'Donnell to his country and to the castles of Ballyshannon and Donegal, receiving his homage by indenture and oath.

    Read the passage

    this town on a military excursion through Ulster to Connaught. In this journey he restored O'Donnel to the possession of his country, and particularly to the castles of Ballyshannon and Donegal, and received his homage by indenture and oath, reserving two hundred marks per annum to the Queen, and a nimiber of men to every general hosting in Ulster. He also received the submissions of several that professed to be weary of O'Neill's domination. In fact he so broke down O'Neill, and particularly by a foray which he led from this town, in the December of the above year, and in which he carried off 2000 cows, and 500 horses, that the Northern chief was, as Cox relates, once designed to come with a halter about his neck, and submit to the Deputy; but a hope of assistance from the Scots diverted him from such humiliation, only to become the victim of professed, but faithless allies, by means of whom, early in the following year, the barbarous, but welcome tribute of his head, was here presented to the Viceroy by Captain William Piers.

    In 1569, Robert Bumell, who had represented Drogheda in the first Irish Parliament of Elizabeth's reign, was chosen Mayor of the to^vn ; and in the same year. Colonel Gilbert, who had done such great service in Munster, that the Earl of Clancar was forced to come in to him, and make his submission on his knees, was knighted for his good service here. On Michaelmas day, 1570, the Mayor and Sheriffs took the oaths before Sir Henry Syd-

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 92

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ballyshannon, you are entering a town whose castles were restored to O'Donnell in 1566. The Deputy had set out from Drogheda on a military excursion through Ulster to Connaught, and on this journey he restored O'Donnell to the possession of his country, and particularly to the castles of Ballyshannon and Donegal. He received O'Donnell's homage by indenture and oath, reserving 200 marks per annum to the Queen, and a number of men for every general hosting in Ulster. The Deputy also received the submissions of several who professed to be weary of O'Neill's domination. He so broke down O'Neill, particularly by a foray he led from Drogheda in the December of that year, in which he carried off 2000 cows and 500 horses, that the Northern chief was, as Cox relates, once designed to come with a halter about his neck and submit to the Deputy. But a hope of assistance from the Scots diverted him from such humiliation, only to become the victim of professed but faithless allies, by means of whom, early in the following year, the barbarous but welcome tribute of his head was presented to the Viceroy by Captain William Piers.

45. Desmond's body interred in Dominican friary

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1467

    After his execution, the Earl of Desmond's body was interred in the Dominican friary of Drogheda, while his head was sent to Dublin for public display on the Castle wall.

    Read the passage

    immoderate greatness by tliat wicked extortion and oppression ; that he was the first who rejected the English laws and government, and drew others by his example to similar insubordination; the first peer of Ireland who refused to attend Parliament on the royal summons ; and the first that suggested a division between the English of blood and the English of birth. Under these charges the Earl was found guilty, and beheaded on the 15th of February, 1467 ; the melancholy scene took place, according to tradition, on the north commons of Drogheda, where the old gallows was formerly erected, and where it remained imtil the present Tholsel displaced it His head was sent to Dublin, to be spiked on the wall of the Castle, and his body was interred in the Dominican friary as before mentioned.

    The fate of this unfortunate nobleman is by some mainly attributed to his having advised the king not

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 71

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Drogheda, in Louth. In February 1467 the Earl of Desmond was beheaded here, on the north commons where the old gallows stood. He had been found guilty of rejecting English laws, refusing to attend Parliament on the royal summons, and suggesting a division between the English of blood and the English of birth. After the execution his head was sent to Dublin to be spiked on the wall of the Castle. His body was interred in the Dominican friary here in Drogheda.

46. Drogheda Fined for Harbouring Murderers

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1310

    In 1310 the Mayor, Commons, and Bailiffs of Drogheda on the Louth side were fined for affording sanctuary to certain murderers, including specifically the murderer of Jordan, chaplain of Hugh de Lacy.

    Read the passage

    there ; while the Mayor and bailiffs of the town at that side received the royal command, not to permit the exportation of com, wine, victuals, or arms, to foreign parts, without special license. In the same year, Bichard, Earl of Ulster, as it were in defiance of the ill-chosen favourite of Edward the Second, Peter Gaveston, then Viceroy of Ireland, held a Court at Trim, in Whitsuntide, where, having dubbed two of the de Lacys Knights, he marched to Drogheda, with the avowed intention of encountering the Lord Lieutenant, but, on better consideration, returned without further prosecuting his design. In the following year, a branch of the Brown family was settled in this town, one of whom, William Brown, and his children lawfully begotten, had liberty to use the English law. In this latter year, the following personages of this vicinity had special writs of summons to the Parliament of Kilkenny, Simon Feypo, Richard Taaffe, William Taaffe, Henry le Fleming, Thomas le Tayllur, Simon de Geneville, Nigel le Brun, Walter de Lacy, Hugh de Lacy, Walter de Cusack, Richard le Savage, and Milo de Swords. In 1310, the Mayor, Commons, and Bailiffs of Drogheda, on the Louth side, were fined, for affording sanctuary to certain murderers, and especially to the murderer of Jordan, the chaplain of Hugh de Lacy. In the same year, the king issued his mandate to the bailiff and seneschal of Depree, in Normandy, to withdraw a caption, which he had made by reprisal, on the goods of Michael Trim, a burgess of Drogheda At this

    60 GENERAL HISTORY.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 29

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Drogheda in Louth, this town carries a story from 1310. In that year the Mayor, Commons, and Bailiffs of Drogheda, on the Louth side, were fined for affording sanctuary to certain murderers, and especially to the murderer of Jordan, the chaplain of Hugh de Lacy. The years around it were unsettled. Richard, Earl of Ulster, held a court at Trim at Whitsuntide, where he dubbed two of the de Lacys knights, then marched to Drogheda with the avowed intention of encountering the Lord Lieutenant. On better consideration he returned without further prosecuting his design. A branch of the Brown family settled in the town, and William Brown and his children lawfully begotten had liberty to use the English law. Persons of this vicinity, including Simon Feypo, Richard Taaffe, William Taaffe, Henry le Fleming, Thomas le Tayllur, Simon de Geneville, Nigel le Brun, Walter de Lacy, Hugh de Lacy, Walter de Cusack, Richard le Savage, and Milo de Swords, received special writs of summons to the Parliament of Kilkenny. In the same year as the fine, the king issued his mandate to the bailiff and seneschal of Depree, in Normandy, to withdraw a caption he had made by reprisal on the goods of Michael Trim, a burgess of Drogheda.

47. Edgecombe receives Drogheda's submission over Perkin Warbeck

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1488

    In July 1488 Sir Richard Edgecombe arrived in Drogheda to recall the allegiance of those who had supported Perkin Warbeck's imposture; the Mayor and Burgesses appeared before him at the Tholsel, took oaths of fealty, and received pardon at the Guildhall.

    Read the passage

    In July, 1488, Sir Kichard Edgecombe arrived here from Dublin, to recal the allegiance of those who had adopted the cause of Perkin Warbeck, the first scenes of whose imposture were craftily laid in Ireland, as in a country removed from the facilities of scrutiny, and amongst a people more generally devoted to the old and legitimate line of monarchy. The Mayor and Burgesses of Drogheda immediately appeared before him, as self-acknowledged offendera, and took the oaths of homage and fealty in his presence at the Tholsel, whereupon they received full pardon and favour, through his Majesty's letters patent, in the Guildhall; " and he took of them sureties for their good abearing towards the King's Grace, and his heirs, and that done, he delivered to them the king's letters of pardon, under his great seal, and lay all that day within that town, and had right good cheer." In the same year, at a Parliament held here, the bounds of the " four obedient shires," that then constituted the Pale ( Dublin, Meath, Bdldare, and Uriel or Louth), were expressly defined in a manner that marked a line from Ardee " to the water of Dundugan, and so as that water goeth to the sea," as the Northern limit of the coimty of

    (a) Roll of Parliament.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are in a town where, in July 1488, Sir Richard Edgecombe arrived from Dublin to recall the allegiance of those who had taken up the cause of Perkin Warbeck. Warbeck's imposture had its first scenes laid craftily in Ireland, a country removed from scrutiny and amongst a people devoted to the old legitimate line of monarchy. The Mayor and Burgesses appeared before Edgecombe as self-acknowledged offenders and took the oaths of homage and fealty at the Tholsel. They then received full pardon and favour through the King's letters patent in the Guildhall. He took sureties from them for their good behaviour towards the King and his heirs, delivered the letters of pardon under the great seal, and lay all that day in the town, with, as the record says, right good cheer. That same year, a Parliament held in Drogheda defined the bounds of the four obedient shires that constituted the Pale, Dublin, Meath, Kildare, and Uriel or Louth, marking the northern limit from Ardee to the water of Dundugan and so to the sea.

48. Essex Sends Forces to Drogheda and Other Garrisons

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1599

    In 1599 the Earl of Essex, having arrived in Ireland with a large force, issued proclamations of amnesty and pardon, then, his terms unmet, dispatched troops to Carrickfergus, Drogheda, Dundalk, Newry, Wicklow, and Naas while leading a force into Leinster where he suffered an unexpected defeat.

    Read the passage

    Masters relate, " such as was not seen in Ireland, since the time when Strongbow and Fitz Stephen landed here in aid of Derraot Mac Murrough," immediately published proclamations of amnesty, pardon, and restitution of property; but, his terms for pacification not having been responded to, he sent forces to Carrickfergus, Drogheda, Dundalk, Newry, Wicklow, Naas, &c., while himself led a strong force into the heart of Leinster, where he sustained an unexpected but signal defeat

    Connected with this locality and with the Earl of Essex, occur, in a manuscript " Life of Arthur, afterwards Lord Chichester," some notices of particular interest. That nobleman, in early life, when but " Master Chichester," was made captain of one of the Queen's best ships, under the command of the Lord of Sheffield, at the sea-fight with the Spanish Armada in 1588. He afterwards had the command of another vessel with 500 men, in Sir Francis Drake's last voyage to the West Indies, where that celebrated navigator died; he was a volunteer in the Earl of Essex's voyage to Spain ; was Sergeant- Major General of the Queen's army in Picardy, under the command of Sir Thomas Boiskerville, and at the siege of Amiens was shot in the shoulder. For his courage and good service then and in these times, he was knighted by King Henry the Fourth; he afterwards commanded a company of 200 men in the Low Countries, " but Sir Robert Cecil, Secretary to the Queen, being very much his noble friend,

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 95

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are moving through a town that received royal troops in 1599. That year the Earl of Essex arrived in Ireland with a force the records say was the largest seen there since Strongbow and Fitz Stephen landed in aid of Dermot MacMurrough. He published proclamations of amnesty, pardon, and restitution of property, but his terms for pacification went unanswered. He then dispatched forces to Carrickfergus, Drogheda, Dundalk, Newry, Wicklow, and Naas, while he himself led a strong force into the heart of Leinster, where he sustained an unexpected but signal defeat. A manuscript life of Arthur, afterwards Lord Chichester, connects this locality to Essex as well. Chichester had been captain of one of the Queen's best ships under the Lord of Sheffield at the sea-fight with the Spanish Armada in 1588. He later commanded a vessel with 500 men on Sir Francis Drake's last voyage to the West Indies, where Drake died. He volunteered for Essex's voyage to Spain, served as Sergeant-Major General of the Queen's army in Picardy under Sir Thomas Boiskerville, and at the siege of Amiens was shot in the shoulder. For his courage and service he was knighted by King Henry the Fourth, and afterwards commanded a company of 200 men in the Low Countries.

49. Fitzgerald proclaimed traitor at the High Cross of Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1534

    While the Lord Deputy remained in Drogheda in 1534, he formally proclaimed Lord Thomas Fitzgerald a traitor at the town's high cross, following the failed siege attempt and subsequent rebellion.

    Read the passage

    in Drogheda, the Lord Deputy proclaimed Fitz Gerald a traitor, at the high cross of the town. It was after this Lord Thomas caused the massacre of the Archbishop of Dubhn, burned that city fix)m the New Gate outward, and routed the English forces from Slieve Ruagh to Drogheda, " so that the entire of Meath was a place of terror, by reason of his expedition"(a). The arrival of a new Lord Deputy, Sir William Skeffington, caused little change in affairs; such was the infirm state of his health, that '' he was unable for some time to take the field, and not only himself, but almost the whole of his army and oflicers, lay for a considerable time shut up and inactive within the walls of Dublin and Drogheda. Meanwhile "there raged throughout the whole kingdom a confused medley of petty warfare, in which, from the consanguinity of the Geraldine famihes with both of the rival races, the rebel camp was filled with a motley array of English and Irish, while on the royal side, the greater number of the northern chieftains had ranged themselves under the flag of loyalty and the Enghsh"(6). Amongst the measures which Baron Finglas at this time promulgated, as calculated to advance the common weal, was a recommendation, " that the city of Dublin and the town of Drogheda, and the town of Dundalk, do go with the king's deputy, when required, to hostings, and that in consideration thereof, their customs and poundage be

    (a) Annals of the Four Masters.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 87

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Drogheda, a town whose high cross was the setting for a dramatic act of defiance in 1534. While the Lord Deputy was stationed here, he formally proclaimed Lord Thomas Fitzgerald a traitor at that cross. What followed was devastation. Lord Thomas orchestrated the massacre of the Archbishop of Dublin, burned the city from the New Gate outward, and routed English forces from Slieve Ruagh all the way to Drogheda itself. As the Annals of the Four Masters put it, "the entire of Meath was a place of terror, by reason of his expedition." A new Lord Deputy, Sir William Skeffington, arrived but changed little. His health was so poor that he and much of his army remained shut up and inactive within the walls of Dublin and Drogheda for a considerable time. Meanwhile, a confused medley of petty warfare raged across the kingdom. The rebel camp held a motley array of English and Irish, drawn together by the Geraldine family ties to both rival races, while northern chieftains largely rallied under the flag of loyalty to the crown. Baron Finglas even recommended that Drogheda, Dublin, and Dundalk march with the king's deputy when called to hostings, in exchange for their customs and poundage.

50. Gerald Wellesley of Dangan, ancestor of Wellington

    Dangan · townland · Meath · 1524–1539

    Gerald Wellesley of Dangan held the manor by Grand Serjeantcy, the duty of bearing the king's standard in war in Ireland. He was the ancestor of the Duke of Wellington, and on his death in 1539 his estate passed to his son William.

    Read the passage

    The names of three individuals occur in this array of marchers, which claim some notice. Gerald Wellesley, of Dangan, was the ancestor of the Duke of Wellington; he held said manor of Dangan by the tenure of Grand Serjeantcy, viz., by the honourable duty of bearing the standard of the lord the king in his wars in Ireland. On his death, in 1539, livery of his estates was granted to his son and heir William Wellesley of Dangan. — Peter Leyns was the representative of a family, that had early settled in the neighbourhood of Dangan; he appeared in 1532 on the hill of Owenstown, on a royal summons, for military service, in right of his lay fee at Croboy, the Knock, &c. In a few years afterwards, he was implicated in the rebellion of Lord Thomas Fitzgerald, the silken lord ; his heirs, however, maintained possession of the estates, until their misguided devotion to the Stuart line vested them, on alleged claims as by forfeiture, in the Crown, and led to their transplantation into Connaught, and the grant of their former estates to the Rowleys, afterwards ennobled with the title of Langford. — Christopher Plunkett

    GENERAL inSTORY. 185

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 86

51. Inchiquin's failed night assault on Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1649

    On the night of 27 June, Inchiquin's forces fired two of Drogheda's gates and 200 men led by Colonel Worden got inside, but were driven out again by the garrison's horse. The garrison later capitulated due to lack of men and provisions.

    Read the passage

    2000 foot, should block up Drogheda, with the assistance of Colonel Mark Trevor, who had lately declared for the king, and now helped to beleaguer the town. Inchiquin made an attempt, hereupon, to surprise the town, and on the night of the 27th of June, two of the gates were fired, and 200 men got in, headed by Colonel Worden, but were driven out again by the horse of the garrison. The Marquess of Ormond sent him, on the next day, two pieces of battery to attack the place in form, but, as soon as they were planted, the garrison, wanting men to defend their works, and their provisions being almost consumed, was obliged to capitulate. One of the articles was, that such of the garrison as were so inclined, should march with Fulkes, the governor, to Dublin, but, of about 700 foot and 256 horse, he was attended into that city with no more than 35 horse, and about 100 foot, the rest taking service in his Majest/s army(o).

    While the royalist forces were thus in occupation of Drogheda, Cromwell, having been appointed by Parliament, General of their forces in Ireland, landed at Dublin on the 15th of August, being not a full fortnight after the defeat of Rathmines. " He brought with him about 9000 foot and 400 horse, and all necessaries for his army, and had a good fleet constantly to attend him"(6). " It was then plain," writes the Marquess of Ormond, in his letter against

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 119

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, this is the town where, on the night of 27 June 1649, Inchiquin tried to take it by surprise. Two of the gates were fired, and 200 men got in, headed by Colonel Worden, but the garrison's horse drove them out again. The next day the Marquess of Ormond sent two pieces of battery to attack the place in form, but the garrison, wanting men to defend their works and with provisions almost consumed, was obliged to capitulate. One of the articles allowed those so inclined to march with Fulkes, the governor, to Dublin. Of about 700 foot and 256 horse, he was attended into that city with no more than 35 horse and about 100 foot. The rest took service in His Majesty's army. While the royalist forces held Drogheda, Cromwell, appointed by Parliament as General of their forces in Ireland, landed at Dublin on 15 August, bringing about 9000 foot and 400 horse and all necessaries for his army, with a good fleet to attend him.

52. Jacobite Army Marches from Drogheda to Ardee, 1689

    Ardee · townland · Louth · 1689

    On Holyrood day, 14 September 1689, King James's army of nearly 20,000 men marched from Drogheda to Ardee to advance toward Schomberg's forces, which remained at Dundalk.

    Read the passage

    sist 20,000 men for two months, upon which the king resolved, now he had got his army together, which consisted of near that number, to advance towards the enemy, as they came not towards him, but remained still at Dimdalk, though their cannon and stores were put on shore, and the Enniskillinershad joined them with two regiments of horse, as many of foot, and one of dragoons, such as they were; accordingly, upon Holyrood day, the 14th of September, they marched from Drogheda to Ardee. The French Ambassador was for this march, but not Monsieur Rosen, who, according to his wonted caution, would never give any advice, but retire and avoid fighting, not that he wanted courage, for no man had more, or more experience in war ; but it was his misfortune to be over-cautious, besides he had writ into France, as the king was informed, that it was impossible for his Majesty to get an army together, and when he saw the contrary, had a mind it should do nothing"(a).

    With the wish, however, of a prompt encounter with Schomberg, King James advanced to Ardee, " which," says a Report, dated October 16, 1689, " is now his head quarters, and where salt, brandy, and tobacco are not to be had." Not finding Schomberg there, he advanced as far as the bridge of Aflane, and subsequently removed to that of Maplestown> where he learned that his opponent had begun to

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 140

53. King John meets Cathal Crobhdearg O'Conor at Ardbraccan

    Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1210

    King John rode into the heart of Meath as far as Ardbraccan to meet Cathal O'Conor of Connaught, called Crobh-dearg (of the bloody hand), who tendered the first allegiance for that province to English government.

    Read the passage

    as the Pale was aflfected thereby, says, " King John having pacified the land, ordained that the English laws should be used in Ireland; appointed twelve English shires, of which were Meath and Louth; assigned Sheriffs and other officers to rule the same; reformed the coin; directed its uniformity in weight and fineness, and made it current as well in England as in Ireland." When he had " disposed of his affairs, and ordered all things at his pleasure," he took the sea again with much triumph, and landed in England on the 30th day of August It must be remarked, however, that although the king might have meditated such a division of counties, and although Sir John Davis supports the assertion, the history of the country contradicts its realization for centuries. A short time previous to this, Walter de Lacy had obtained a Royal license to erect one mill at the bridge of Drogheda, provided such erection did not prejudice the king, or any of his subjects; and from the manner in which this bridge is mentioned in the record, it may be fairly inferred, that one of better and more durable materials, such as in the twelfth century Turlogh O'Conor constructed over the Shannon and the Suck, was heretofore erected in this place, by which it would appear, that Drogheda preceded the metropohs in such a useful erection, the patent for the first substantial bridge over the Liffey, at Dublin, bearing date not until 1215. According to the Irish Annalists, the king at this time rode into the heart of Meath, as far as Ardbraccan,

    46 GENERAL mSTOBY.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 24

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Ardbraccan, King John rode into the heart of Meath in 1210. He came to meet Cathal Crobhdearg O'Conor of Connaught, who tendered the first allegiance for that province to English government. King John had pacified the land and ordained that English laws should be used in Ireland. He appointed 12 English shires, among them Meath and Louth, and assigned sheriffs and other officers to rule them. He reformed the coin, directing its uniformity in weight and fineness, and made it current in England as well as Ireland. When he had disposed of his affairs and ordered all things at his pleasure, he took the sea again and landed in England on 30 August. The history of the country contradicts the realization of this county division for centuries, though Sir John Davis supports the assertion. A short time before this, Walter de Lacy had obtained a royal license to erect one mill at the bridge of Drogheda, provided such erection did not prejudice the king or any of his subjects. From the manner in which this bridge is mentioned, it may be fairly inferred that one of better and more durable materials had been erected there before, such as Turlogh O'Conor constructed in the twelfth century over the Shannon and the Suck. It would appear that Drogheda preceded the metropolis in such a useful erection, the patent for the first substantial bridge over the Liffey at Dublin not bearing date until 1215.

54. Lord Bellew wounded at Aghrim, outlawed

    Aughrim · parish · Galway · 1689–1691

    John Bellew, Baron Bellew of Duleek, commanded a regiment for King James in 1689 and was severely wounded at the Battle of Aughrim; for his Stuart loyalty he was outlawed in 1691, though restored to his son under the Articles of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    be supplied by the state ; he was afterwards one of those who felt necessitated to attend the celebrated meeting on the hill of Crofty, and, however affected his estates were in consequence thereof, the Act of Settlement contained an express saving of the rights of his son John Bellew. On the accession of King James, thisJohn Bellew was knighted, appointed one of that monarch's earliest councillors, and soon afterwards created an Irish peer as Baron Bellew of Duleek, in right whereof he sat in King James's Parliament. In 1689 he commanded a regiment in that monarch's service, and was severely wounded at Aghrim, for which adherence to the Stuart, he was outlawed in 1691, but being comprehended within the Articles of Limerick, his estates were restored to his son Bichard, who became the third Baron of Duleek, on the death of his elder brother Walter, the second Lord Bellew, without issue ; the estates were, during his possession, the subject of various private Acts of Parliament The heir of tMs Richard, John Lord Bellew, was the last of that line, having died at Lisle without issue male. His eldest daughter was married to Lord Viscount Taaffe, but his nephew, Lord Boyne, inherited his estates. Returning to the line of Sir John of Willystown, his eldest son, Patrick, was Sheriff of Louth in 1687, took up his residence at Barmeath, and obtained in 1688 the honour of a baronetcy, which has lineally descended through Sir John Bellew of Barmeath and Castle Bellew, Sir Edward Bellew, his eldest son and

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through the parish of Aughrim, this is where John Bellew, Baron Bellew of Duleek, was severely wounded in 1689 commanding a regiment for King James. He had been knighted on James's accession, appointed one of his earliest councillors, and created an Irish peer, sitting in King James's Parliament. For his adherence to the Stuart cause he was outlawed in 1691. But the Articles of Limerick brought some recovery: his estates were restored to his son Richard, who became the third Baron of Duleek after his elder brother Walter, the second Lord Bellew, died without issue.

55. Lord Justice de Lucy arrests nobles at Kilkenny Parliament

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1331

    Sir Anthony de Lucy summoned a Parliament to Dublin which was neglected and adjourned to Kilkenny, where suspicion over declining attendance led him to arrest the Earl of Desmond, Maundeville, Walter de Burgo, and the Bermingham brothers, committing them to Dublin Castle.

    Read the passage

    The latter individual, so here projected to notice, had been sheriff of Cumberland in 1318, where he distinguished himself in defending the Northern marches, and resisting the Scots. In 1324, he was commanded to hold himself in readiness to perform military service in person, for the defence of Aquitain, and to raise all the forces he could, in addition to his contingent due by tenure. Being a person of great authority in England, he was sent over, as Sir John Davis remarks, " to work a reformation in this kingdom, by a severe course, which, in his discretion, he considered could be best effected by a vigorous prosecution of the Irishry, and a determined opposition to the insolence and insidious practiced of his insincere adherents of the English race." With these, the avowed objects of his administration, it is not to be wondered at, that when he summoned, on his arrival, a Parliament to meet in Dublin, his order was neglected, and the assembly inconsiderable ; it was adjourned to Kilkenny, and here, the still decreasing number of attending members gave new occasion of suspicion, whereupon, he at once arrested the Earl

    of Desmond, Maundeville, Walter de Burgo,

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 37

56. O'Neill Accompanies the Lord Deputy Through Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1600

    After his submission, O'Neill, then created Earl of Tyrone, accompanied the Lord Deputy into Drogheda and rode with him to Dublin the following day, shortly before he and the Earl of Tyrconnel were attainted by Act of Parliament.

    Read the passage

    yson, " were presented on their knees, and in the presence of a great assembly " In a few days afterwards, O'Neill, then created Earl of Tyrone, accompanied the Lord Deputy into Drogheda, and thence on the following day, rode with him to Dublin. In a few years afterwards, however, this nobleman, with the Earl of Tyrconnel, and various chieftains of Ulster, were attainted by Act of Parliament. Amongst those implicated as of his accomplices on that occasion, were, John Bathe of Drogheda, merchant, and Richard Weston of Dundalk, merchant Con O'Neill, son of the above earl, was taken under the particular care of King James, and royal disbursements appear in the Pell Records(a) of that reign, as for the sum of £51, " for so much money expended for the apparel, bedding, and other necessaries, provided for the education and bringing up of Con O'Neill;" another sum of £20 5^., for his expenses at Eton College, for one quarter, &c. The confiscations consequent upon the above attainder, in lands alone (exclusive of those rights of advowsons, fisheries, tithes, &c., which the Crown asserted, rather than acquired, as incident thereto), comprised upwards of half a

    (a) The records, heretofore kept by the Clerk of the Pells in Ireland, are now preserved in the Vice-Treasiirer's Office at the Custom-House, so far as they are extant, viz., from the 25 th December, 1695, to the 24th June, 1792. This series exhibits the accounts of crown, quit, and compensation rents during the intervaL Those of England are far more interesting, affording, as they do, particulars of the disbursements to Ambassadors, Officers of State, Judges, Irish military establishments, pensions, &c.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 96

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through Drogheda, the Louth town where, in 1600, O'Neill, then created Earl of Tyrone, came in submission. He accompanied the Lord Deputy into Drogheda, and on the following day rode with him to Dublin. A few years afterwards, this nobleman, with the Earl of Tyrconnel and various chieftains of Ulster, were attainted by Act of Parliament. Amongst those implicated as his accomplices were John Bathe of Drogheda, merchant, and Richard Weston of Dundalk, merchant. Con O'Neill, son of the earl, was taken under the particular care of King James. Royal disbursements appear in the Pell Records of that reign: the sum of 51 pounds, for so much money expended for the apparel, bedding, and other necessaries, provided for the education and bringing up of Con O'Neill, and another sum of 20 pounds and 5 shillings, for his expenses at Eton College, for one quarter. The confiscations consequent upon the attainder, in lands alone, exclusive of rights of advowsons, fisheries, tithes, and such as the Crown asserted rather than acquired, comprised upwards of half a million acres. The Pell Records, kept by the Clerk of the Pells in Ireland, are now preserved in the Vice-Treasurer's Office at the Custom-House, so far as they are extant, from the 25th of December 1695 to the 24th of June 1792. This series exhibits the accounts of crown, quit, and compensation rents during that interval.

57. Roman gold coins unearthed at Newgrange

    Newgrange · townland · Meath

    Gold coins of Roman emperors Valentinian and Theodosius were found near Drogheda at New Grange, evidence of ancient trade contacts predating the Danish invasion.

    Read the passage

    nicia, Carthage, Spain, Britain, and Gaul, leaves it more than probable, that money should have been introduced here centuries before the Danish invasion ; an inference which is corroborated by the fact, that although no Irish coins have been yet discovered, which can, with any probability, be assigned to a period earlier than the Danes, yet Grecian, Roman, and Carthaginian, of a more ancient era, have been (as Lindsay remarks in his recent and comprehensive " View of the Coinage of Ireland,") to a limited number found in Ireland. Of these it should be mentioned, gold coins of Valentinian and Theodosius were (as Ledwich relies) foimd in the vicinity of this town, at New Grange. To this currency succeeded a partial importation of Anglo- Saxon coins, after which the Danes, on succeeding in settling themselves in the seaports, established a mint in Dublin, where their acknowledged supreme Prince resided. The characters and varieties of these Hibemo-Danish coins, are fully illustrated in Lindsay's work, pp. 8, &c., and for further information on this early branch of the subject, not being more intimately connected with this town, the curious reader is referred to Simon " on Irish Coins," and to Keder's "Nummonmi in Hibemifi. cusorum Indagatio." Immediately after the English invasion, halfpence and farthings were struck in Dublin and Waterford by Prince John, as Lord of Ireland ; and, in some years after his accession to the throne, according to Roger of Wendover and Matthew Paris,

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 56

58. Sally to Stameen castle and human remains at Bettystown

    near Bettystown · town · Meath · 1642

    A sally to the castle of Stameen brought a large acquisition of corn from Colpe village. Human bodies mixed with armour fragments later dug up at Bettystown were attributed to this action.

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    On the 26th of February, the governor of this town, having made a sally to Beabeg, had a smart engagement with the enemy, several of whom were slain; two colours were taken by Major Fortescue and Captain Bryan, and a store of cattle was also captured. " So many," adds Bernard, " were shot upon this occasion in the river of Julianstown, that the water was aU red with their blood. Another sally to the castle of Stameen was attended with similar results, and a large acquisition of corn from the village of Colpe ; the remains of human bodies mixed with fragments of armour, buckles, &c., which were of late thrown up in the townland of Bettystown, in digging for building sand, have been, and probably correctly, attributed to this day's visitation. Of the latter excursion, Sir Henry Tichburne

    b2

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 109

59. Schomberg's Siege and Capture of Carrickfergus

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1689

    Immediately upon landing, Schomberg besieged Carrickfergus, taking it after a resistance of eight days, before proceeding to seize Dundalk.

    Read the passage

    Schomberg, immediately on his landing, besieged Carrickfergus, which he took, but not without a resistance of eight days, and soon afterwards possessed himself of Dundalk. A scarce pamphlet, dated 2nd September, 1689, and entitled " An account of Duke Schomberg's march towards Dublin," contains the following passages in reference to the state of the country at this juncture: "His Grace Duke Schomberg intends to take in Charlemont, being upon his

    310 QENEBAL HISTORY.

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 139

60. Thomas O'Reilly ravages the Pale between Drogheda and Dublin

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1370

    Thomas, son of Mahon O'Reilly, Lord of Clan-mahon, distinguished himself against the English by levelling eighteen castles of the Pale and laying the country between Drogheda and Dublin under contribution.

    Read the passage

    impetuosity of his valour, and his successful resistance against the English; having in a short period levelled eighteen castles belonging to the Pale, and laid the country, from Drogheda to Dublin, under contribution"(a).

    In 1372 a royal Commission of Inquiry sat here upon the conduct of the aforesaid William de Windsor, when it was found that he had imposed a cess of fo. 8rf. per acre, on every carucate of land in Meath, and that the number of carucates then tilled was 500. That on another occasion at Timolin, he had imposed a cess on the county Kildare, of one crannock of wheat, and one crannock of oats, on every carucate under tillage, each crannock of wheat being then worth 85., and each crannock of oats 5*. That at a Parliament held in Dublin, in 1370, James de la Hoyde, knight, and John Fitz John of Delvin, were elected knights of the shire by the commons of Meath, being pledged to their constituents not to grant any talliage or subsidy on that county on account of its losses by the invasion of the Irishry ; but yet, by coercion, and because they saw that Roger

    Internet Archive historydrogheda01dalgoog, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, you are on ground that saw the work of Thomas, son of Mahon O'Reilly, Lord of Clan-mahon. In 1370 the Irishry pressed hard on the English colony, and this man distinguished himself against the English by what the record calls the impetuosity of his valour. In a short period he levelled eighteen castles belonging to the Pale, and laid the country from Drogheda to Dublin under contribution. The blow fell across the whole stretch of road ahead of you. That same year, a parliament held in Dublin felt the consequences. The commons of Meath elected James de la Hoyde and John Fitz John of Delvin as knights of the shire, pledged not to grant any talliage or subsidy on that county because of its losses by the invasion of the Irishry. They were forced, by coercion, and because they saw that Roger — the record breaks there. But the damage O'Reilly inflicted is clear: eighteen castles gone, and the land from this town to Dublin made to pay.