Name: A history of the city and county of Cork
Author: Mary Francis Cusack (1829–1899)

Milo de Cogan killed by Mac Tire of Imokilly

Imokilly · barony · Cork · 1185

According to the annals of Kilronan and Clonmacnoise, Milo de Cogan was killed by Mac Tire, prince of Ui Mac Caille, now the barony of Imokilly in county Cork. The author notes the partisan framing of Irish versus English violence in contemporary chronicles.

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5. The annals of Kilronan, Clonmacnoise, and Ulster entered the death of Milo de Cogan, “ the destroyer of all Ireland, both of church and state of Raymond le Gros and of the two sons of Fitz Stephen. The annals of Kilrone and Clonmacnoise add that Milo was killed by Mac Tire, prince of Ui Mac Caille (now the barony of Imokilly, county of Cork), according to Cambrensis, who was the Froude of the twefth century. Certainly it was always an act of treachery when an Irish prince or chief killed an Englishman who had taken possession of his property, and an act of the highest virtue -when an Englishman killed a Celt, whom he had expelled from house and home,

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 111

O'Driscoll country pays tribute to Mac Carthy Reagh

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1636

By 1636, the entire territory of O'Driscoll, along with those of the O'Donovans, O'Mahonys, and several Mac Carthy septs, paid tribute to Mac Carthy Reagh, reflecting the subordinate status of these once-independent clans.

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The surrounding tribes still continued to encroach upon the Corea Laidhe, untill at length they narrowed their territory to the limits of the following parishes, which, according to the Regal Visitation Book of 1615, constitute the rural deanery of Colleymare and Colleybeg, viz. : — Myross, Glanbarahane (now Castlehaven), Tullagh, Creagh, Kilcoe, Aghadowne and Cleere. In this territory they built the castles Gleann Bearchain or Castlehaven, Lough-Hyne, Ardagh, Baltimore, Dunna-n-gall, Dun-Dunanvir in Cape Clear Island, Rineoliskey, and a castle and abbey on Sherkin Island. In 1636, the entire of O’Driscoll’s country, as well as those of the O’Donovans, O’Mahony’s, and several septs of the Mac Carthys, paid
tribute to Mac Carthy Reagh.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 425

As the companion tells it

As you come through Baltimore, you are in what was O'Driscoll country. They built a castle here, one of several in the territory, along with castles at Lough Hyne, Cape Clear, and Sherkin Island. By 1636 the O'Driscolls' independence had faded. Their entire country, and the lands of the O'Donovans, the O'Mahonys, and several Mac Carthy septs, all paid tribute to Mac Carthy Reagh. What had once been a territory stretching across many parishes had been narrowed by surrounding tribes encroaching from all sides until little was left.

Raleigh attacks David Barry at Cloyne

Cloyne · town · Cork · 1580

Raleigh, returning to Cork, heard that David Barry was at Cloyne with several hundred rebels. He passed that way, met and attacked Barry's men, but they fled at the first onset. Raleigh later observed Irish in a plain adjacent to a wood and attacked them with only six horse.

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“ Soon after this action, Captain Raleigh (afterwards Sir Walter) went from Cork to Dublin, to his patron, the Lord Grey, who on the 7th "of September was made lord deputy of Ireland, With a complaint against the Barrys and Condons for assisting the rebels. He obtained a commission to seize on the castle of Barrys Court and the rest of Lord Barry’s estate, and had some horse added to his company to enable him to take possession of it ; but Barry having notice of it, set Barry’s Court on fire, and the sefieschal of Imokilly placed an ambush for him at Chore Abbey, which the young Raleigh courageously attacked, defeated, and broke through, so that a.d. 1580. he arrived safe at Cork. Captain Raleigh, Sir William Morgan, and Captain Piers, having received a commission to govern Munster, on the Earl of Ormond’s going to England, lay, for the most part, with the forces about Lismore. When the summer, was spent, Raleigh returned to Cork with eight horse and four-score foot. Hearing that David Barry was at Cloyne with several hundred rebels, he passed that way, met him, and attacked his men, but they fled at the first onset. Being on his journey, he observed a company of Irish in a plain, adjacent to a wood, and immediately attacked them with six horse, his foot being not yet come up. The Irish seeing so few persons to fight with, killed five of the horses, and Raleigh’s amongst the rest. One Nicholas Wright, a Yorkshireman, observing his master’s horse to plunge (beinowounded with a dart), cried out to an Irishman, one Patrick Fagan, who did so ; whilst he himself furiously attacked six of the enemy, and slew one of them. By this time James Fitz Richard came with one kern to Raleigh’s assistance, which kern was slain, and himself in much danger. Where¬ upon Raleigh cried out, ‘Wright, if thou be a man, charge above hand and save the gentleman.’ Wright, at his master’s command, pressed among the Irish, slew five of them, and
thereby saved Fitz Richard, in which* skirmish his horse’s leo-

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 226

Schoolboys of Cork tear Queen's title from grammars

Cork · city · Cork · 1596

A letter from 1596 complains that the youth of Cork refused to attend church and tore the Queen's title and style out of their grammar books.

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In this letter was enclosed another letter addressed to Sir William Russell, then Lord Deputy of Ireland, in which he complains how her Majesty’s “ stile and title ” were torn out of the grammars by the ruffianly boys of Cork :
“ The youth will not come to the church no more than the older sorte, for example whereof I comanded the school¬ master, Avhich teacheth in the towne where I dwell, to bring his scholars to church or else he should not teach them ; upon this the most part of his scholars went away and left the school. And now lately within this quarter of this yeare

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 168

As the companion tells it

As the road carries you through Cork, this city holds a small stubborn story from 1596. A letter went to Sir William Russell, then Lord Deputy of Ireland, complaining that her Majesty's "stile and title" were torn out of the grammars by the ruffianly boys of Cork. The writer said the youth would not come to the church any more than the older sort. He commanded the schoolmaster who taught in the town where he dwelt to bring his scholars to church or else he should not teach them. Upon this, the most part of his scholars went away and left the school.

Spanish barks arrive at Dingle, Kerry

Dingle · town · Kerry · 1580

Two Spanish barks arrived at Dingle in Kerry around 26 February 1580 to assess the state of the Geraldine rebels. Dr. Saunders, present in the town, sent them back with urgent letters requesting promised aid from Spain, exaggerating the rebels' strength.

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“ The rebels in Munster doe still continue their rebellion, keeping themselves in desart places, expecting the coming of foreign powers, which the doited doctor and traiture Saunders doth verifie unto them, offering his head to be cutte off yf aide come not by the xx day of April next. There arrived in Dyngall in Kerrie, two Spanish barks about the 26th of February, to understand the state of the rebels, and Doctor Saunders, who declared they were sent from the court of Spain, upon report that all the Geraldines were overthrown and killed. They came to know the certainty thereof, and finding before them in the town the said dolting doctor, he did return them with speede, with vehement letters for the speedie sending into Ireland the ayde promised ; and also certifying the prosperous successe of the Geraldynes, setting them forth, as I understood, a thousand times with more force and success than they have had, or are like to have, and so the said barques are despatched from the first of Marche. This much I am advertised of by the Earl of Clancarre, who came from these parts of late, and was here at Cork with the lord general [Ormonde], promising to serve her magistie with all his force against the said rebels, alsoe, the said Earle of Clancarre his son and heire remaineth in my custody this twelve month and halfe, as pledge for the good and dutiful behaviour of his father. He hath no more sonnes but the same. Methinks if I had not good regard in keeping the sonne, the father had been as false with us as the rest. Likewise I do understand the Baron of Lixnaw, and Patrick his son, are ready to run

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 215

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dingle in Kerry, this is where two Spanish barks arrived about the 26th of February 1580. They came to understand the state of the Geraldine rebels in Munster, who were still holding out in wild and desolate places, waiting for foreign help. The rebels had been keeping themselves hidden, expecting powers from abroad to join them. Doctor Saunders was in the town when the Spanish vessels reached it. He told the Spaniards that the barks had been sent from the court of Spain, because there was a report abroad that all the Geraldines had been overthrown and killed. The ships had come to learn the truth of it. Finding Saunders there before them, he sent them back with speed, carrying urgent letters demanding the aid that had been promised be sent into Ireland without delay. In those letters he certified the prosperous success of the Geraldines, setting them forth, as the source puts it, a thousand times with more force and success than they have had, or are like to have. The two barks were dispatched by the first of March. This account came through the Earl of Clancarre, who had lately come from these parts and was in Cork with the lord general Ormonde. He promised to serve her majesty with all his force against the rebels. His son and heir had been held as a pledge for the father's good behaviour for eighteen months, and he had no other sons.

Archbishop of Cashel accused of protecting Bishop Creagh, 1593

Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1593

In a May 1593 letter to Lord Burleigh, the Lord Deputy accused Miler MacGrath, Protestant Archbishop of Cashel, and Richard Power of pretending to plot the apprehension of Dr. Creagh while actually serving their own interests. MacGrath was secretly informing Creagh of all schemes against him.

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We have laboured with all possible endeavours with the Earl of Tirone, as well by private conference as by our sending letters, for the apprehension of the titular bishops remaining in these parts ; yet can wc by no means prevail, though it is very well known to us that the earl might have done great and acceptable service therein, on account of the friendship between him, O’Donell, and Maguire Maguire being cousingermain, and all together at his service, and, as report goetb, either hath or is to marry the earl’s daughter. And as in this I made bold, I humbly pray your lordship’s pardon, to state what little success hath followed of the great shams of service made by the Archbishop of Cashel and Richard Power, rather in regard for their own benefit and to serve their own turns, than for any performance of actions at all. Upon the Arch¬ bishop’s coming over they pretended a plot, both for the getting of great sums of money for her Majesty and for the apprehension of Dr. Creagke, to the second of which wre rather first harkened, but in the end nothing was done more than to spend so much time, and an open show, as it were, made to the world how that traitor was sought and laid for, whereby the other traitorous titular bishops might take warning to be the more wary upon their keeping.”
The accusation which is here made against the unfortunate Miler Mac Grath, Protestant Archbishop of Cashel, had probably more foundation than the Lord Deputy imagined ; and whilst more noise was made for the arrest of Bishop Dermitius, intelligence of all such schemes was communicated to him by Miler himself. One letter of Mac Grath to his “loving wife Any” is preserved in the S. P. 0., dated from Greenwich, the 26th of June, 1592, in which he writes: “I have already resolved you in my mind touching my cousin

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 181

As the companion tells it

You are coming up on Cashel, a town in Tipperary with a rocky history. In May of 1593, the Lord Deputy wrote to Lord Burleigh about what happened here. He had been trying to seize the titular bishops remaining in these parts. He tried the Earl of Tyrone by private conference and by sending letters, but could not prevail, though the earl might have done great service, on account of friendship between him, O'Donnell, and Maguire, Maguire being cousin germain, and all together at his service. The letter then turned to the Archbishop of Cashel, Miler MacGrath, and Richard Power. Upon the Archbishop's coming over, they pretended a plot, both for the getting of great sums of money for her Majesty and for the apprehension of Dr. Creagh. The Lord Deputy harkened first to the second of these, but in the end nothing was done, only time spent, and an open show made to the world, as he put it, of how that traitor was sought and laid for, whereby the other traitorous titular bishops might take warning to be the more wary. The Lord Deputy called these great shams of service, made rather in regard for their own benefit and to serve their own turns than for any performance of actions at all. The accusation against Miler MacGrath had probably more foundation than the Lord Deputy imagined. Whilst more noise was made for the arrest of Bishop Dermitius, intelligence of all such schemes was communicated to him by Miler himself. One letter of MacGrath to his loving wife Any is preserved, dated from Greenwich the 26th of June 1592.

Arrival of Lord Deputy Grey at Howth

Howth · townland · Dublin · 1580

Lord Arthur Grey de Wilton, a ruthless Puritan sent by Elizabeth to compel the Irish to accept the Reformation, arrived at Howth in August 1580.

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“ On Friday 12th August, 1580, about four o’clock in the morning, Lord Arthur Grey de Wilton, arrived at Howth ; and on Wednesday, the 7th of September, was, by virtue of Queen Elizabeth’s Letters Patent, which were solemnly read by Nicholas White, Master of the Rolls, sworn Lord Deputy in St. Patrick’s Church, before the Lord Justice Pelham, the peers and counsellers of the state. Grey was a ruthless Puritan^ and the Queen sent him to Ireland ‘ to dissolve the spell of Rome or in plain phase, to compel the Irish to accept the doctrines of the so-called Reformation. Pelham had not succeeded in effecting this ; and it occurred to her Majesty that Grey’s swordsmen might achieve what his predecessor s ranting preachers were not able to realise. In Greys suit were three remarkable men— Spenser, the poet, his Excellency’s Secretary ; Sir Walter Raleigh, statesman, soldier, navigator, poet, and philosopher ; and William Lyon, a native of Chester, who, in 1573; was made Vicar of Naas, and, four years after¬ wards, obtained dispensation ‘ to hold the same, with any other benefice, for life, and leave to live in England, and transport the profits of his vicarage into that kingdom. A special favourite of the Queen was this Lyon : for, one month before Grey landed, her Majesty advanced him to the Vicarage of Bodenstown, in the county of Kildare ; and when the new deputy was sworn, caused him to be appointed chaplain to his
Excellency.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 167

Battle of Ormond and Desmond at Kilkenny

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny

A battle between the Earls of Ormond and Desmond, arranged by concord among the Irishmen, resulted in all the good men of the town of Kilkenny being slain, with the Earl of Desmond prevailing. This was cited as evidence of the dangers of English settlers allying with Irish septs.

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alliance with Irishmen, to strengthen themselves against others, by reason whereof they disdained to.be punished by the king’s deputies, ‘and to prove experience for the same, there was, by concord of the Irishmen, a battle between the Earls of Ormond and Desmond; in which all the good men of the town of Kilkenny were slain, and the Earl of Desmond prevailed. Since that time neither the Geraldines of Munster nor of Leinster, nor the Butlers, have duly obeyed the king’s laws, but continually allied them¬ selves with Irishmen, using coyne and livery, so that all the freeholders and English inhabitants in the countries of the Earls of Desmond, Ormond, and Kildare are clearly expulsed, and Irishmen inhabit their stead ; and ‘ there is at this day obedient to the king’s laws only the little English pale betwixt Dublin arid Trim and Dundalk, which passeth pot thirty miles compass,’ ’’

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 151

Cromwell melts Cork church bells for cannon

Cork · city · Cork · 1649–1650

While in Cork, Cromwell melted down church bells to make ordnance. When remonstrated with for the sacrilege, he quipped that since gunpowder was invented by a priest, he thought it fitting to promote the bells into cannons.

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Cromwell was fond of grim jokes. They were sometimes more than grim — they were about what might be expected from a thoroughly brutalized nature, with the added characteristic of pretended piety. He was anxious to get possession of the Protestant bishop Bramhall, who happily escaped him. Being in want of ordnance, he had the bells of the churches in Cork used for the purpose; and when he was remonstrated with for the sacrilege, he said that as gunpowder was invented by a priest, he thought it not amiss to promote the bells into cannons.
While in Cork, Bichard Magee, of Mallow, went to pay his respects, probably from fear rather than affection. Cromwell got a hint that he might prove a troublesome enemy, and, after receiving him with the greatest show of kindness, gave him a letter to Colonel Phair. The contents were simple. The letter only contained the words — execute the bearer.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 294

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, this is the city where Cromwell, in 1649 to 1650, melted down church bells to make ordnance. He was short of cannons, so he had the bells of the churches in Cork used for the purpose. When someone remonstrated with him for the sacrilege, he said that as gunpowder was invented by a priest, he thought it not amiss to promote the bells into cannons. He was fond of grim jokes. While he was here, Richard Magee of Mallow went to pay his respects, probably from fear rather than affection. Cromwell got a hint Magee might prove a troublesome enemy. He received him with the greatest show of kindness, then gave him a letter to Colonel Phair. The letter contained only the words, execute the bearer.

Danes settle in Cork, Iny, and Glas-Linn

Cork · city · Cork · 915–919

After landing at Waterford around 915-919, Ragnall and Earl Otter's forces plundered Munster and separated into three parties, settling in Cork (Corcach), Inisnahednighi (Iny, Co. Kerry), and Glas-Linn. The whole of Munster was ravaged so that not a house or hearth remained south of the Lee.

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“ And Domhnall, son of Donnchadh, heir apparent of Caisel, was killed by them : and they plundered Muscraighe and Ui Caerpe ; and they afterwards separated into three parties ; one-third settled in Corcach, and one-third in Inisnahednighi,9 and one-third in Glas-Linn ; and the whole of Munster was ravaged by them, so that there was not a house or a hearth from Lui1 southwards.
“This was the year before the death of Flann, son of Maelsechlainn. It was also by that fleet that Gebennach, son of Aedh, King of M‘'Conaill, was killed, and they carried away his head after killing him. W herefore the poet said : —

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 63

As the companion tells it

You're coming into Cork. It became one of 3 Danish settlements after Ragnall and Earl Otter's fleet ravaged Munster around 915. They killed Domhnall, son of Donnchadh, heir apparent of Caisel, and plundered Muscraighe and Ui Caerpe. Then they split into 3 parties. One third settled in Corcach, one third in Inisnahednighi, one third in Glas-Linn. They ravaged the whole of Munster so that there was not a house or a hearth from the Lee southwards. It was the year before the death of Flann, son of Maelsechlainn. That same fleet killed Gebennach, son of Aedh, King of M'Conaill, and carried away his head.

Desmond's cattle raid from Derrymore wood

Derrymore · townland · Kerry · 1583

The Earl of Desmond sent horsemen and kernes from Derrymore wood, near Bongoinder, to raid cattle from Maurice Mac Owen. They took forty cows, nine horses, and household goods, stripping Maurice, his wife, and child naked.

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more [Derrymore] wood, near Bongoinder,6 from whence he sent two of his horsemen, with eighteen kernes, Caher-ni- Fahye , to take a prey of cattle from Maurice Mac Owen, the brother-in-law of the man from whose important depositions we are quoting. The men executed their commission with little regard to mercy— they took “ fortie cowes, niene coppels (horses), with greate store of other goodes and householde 3tuffe, and stripped naked the said Maurice, his wife, and childe.” The latter piece of barbarity, it must be remembered, was not done under Desmond s orders, and as we have only
the deposition of one side, it cannot be known now whether Maurice Mac Owen might not have done some deed of cruelty himself to the Geraldine party which might palliate, if it could not justify, this atrocity. Maurice Owen must have been a man of some considerable property, or he would not

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 230

Desmond's rival Assembly at Callan, 1345

Callan · town · Kilkenny · 1345

The Earl of Desmond refused the Lord Justice's command to attend Parliament in Dublin in 1345 and instead convened his own Assembly at Callan, County Kilkenny. This act of defiance resulted in a petty war and the capture of two of the earl's castles.

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We find Desmond refusing the Lord Justices command to attend Parliament in Dublin in 1345, and appointing another Assembly of his own at Callan, in the county Kilkenny. The result was a petty war, and the capture of two of the earl s castles — Inisbrysty and the Island Castle-— and the hanging of certain of his followers : Sir Eustace Poer, Sir William
I Smith was by no means partial to his native land or his race, and throughout his History identifies himself with the English. Yet he says that Ufford “was greedy of amassir ^ wealth,” and proved an improper person.— Smith’s History of C otk, vol. i, p. 21.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 122

French fleet sighted off Crookhaven

Crookhaven · townland · Cork · 1796

The French expedition fleet was first sighted by the Honourable Courtenay Boyle, commander of the Kangeroo frigate. He immediately proceeded to Crookhaven to give the alarm, though severe weather made communication with the mainland extremely difficult.

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The fleet was first sighted by the Honourable Courtenay Boyle, who commanded the Kangeroo frigate. He immediately proceeded to Crookhaven to give the alarm, but the state of the weather was such they had the greatest difficulty in com¬ municating with the main land. Connections were, however, effected, and the news despatched to Admiral Kingsmill, who was at the Cove of Cork.
Mr. Hall, of Leamcon, sent the news to Mr. White, of Seafield Park, who was the first to inform the Irish govern¬ ment, and who was rewarded by an elevation to the peerage as Lord Bantry.4

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 328

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Crookhaven, in 1796, the French expedition fleet was first sighted by the Honourable Courtenay Boyle, commander of the Kangeroo frigate. He raced to Crookhaven to raise the alarm, but severe weather made communication with the mainland extremely difficult. Connections were eventually made, and the news was sent to Admiral Kingsmill at the Cove of Cork. Mr. Hall of Leamcon also passed the news to Mr. White of Seafield Park, who was the first to inform the Irish government, and was rewarded with elevation to the peerage as Lord Bantry.

James Fitz Gerald burns Dingle, July 1579

Dingle · town · Kerry · 1579

Sir James Fitz Gerald landed at Dingle and burned the town, spoiling all the Earl of Desmond's tenants there. Desmond wrote to the president of Munster announcing the landing and pledged to march against his cousin with all his forces.

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“ My very good Lord, —Since the writing of my last, I received news that Sir James Fitz- Gerald (Morrish) landed upon Saturday last at the Ding-all, and burned the town, and spoiled all my tenants there, and doth spare none of her majesties subjects. I, taking the advice of my lord Arch¬ bishop of Cashel and Mr. Apsley, they advised me to ride forward with all my forces, and, with God’s help to expell the traytor and his adherents ; and now, being bent thither, having in my companie the said archbishop and Mr. Apsley, I hope, with the mightie hand of God, to make an end of this service on hand. Wishing your lordship to hasten hither
with your forces, lest that more ayde should come to the rebel.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 205

As the companion tells it

As the road comes through Dingle, this Kerry town holds a story from 1579. The Earl of Desmond wrote to the president of Munster from Whytestown. He said Sir James Fitz Gerald, called Morrish, landed on a Saturday at the town and burned it. He spoiled all the earl's tenants there and spared none of the Queen's subjects. Desmond took advice from the Archbishop of Cashel and Mr Apsley, who told him to ride forward with all his forces to expel the traitor. He wrote that he was bent thither with the archbishop and Mr Apsley in his company, hoping with God's help to make an end of the service. He asked the president to hasten with his forces, lest more aid come to the rebel.

Kilcrea Abbey founded by Cormac Mac Carthy

Kilcrea · townland · Cork · 1467

In 1467 Cormac Mac Carthy, surnamed Laidir (the strong), founded the Franciscan monastery of Kilcrea in County Cork. The MacCarthys were noted patrons of the Franciscan order.

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In 1467 the Monastery of Cill-Caedhe (Kilcrea), Co. Cork, was founded by Cormac Mac Carthy, surnamed L aider (the strong), for Franciscan friars. The Mac Cartkys were great patrons of this order. Mac Carthy also erected Blarney Castle. He was buried in Kilcrea in 1495.
The Wars of the Roses divided the English in Ireland almost as much as their relatives across the channel. The ' Butlers were Plantagenets, the Fitzgeralds were Lancastrians. Happily, however, they did a good deal of their fighting in England, but Smith complains pathetically that “ they left their estates to be overrun by the Irish.” In other words, the Irish had a chance of getting back the estates which the English had “ overrun” to some purpose.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 143

Kilmallock crowd rejects Anglicised heir at Protestant church

Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1600

James Fitzgerald was welcomed at Kilmallock with shouts of joy, but the people turned against him when he attended the Protestant church on Sunday. His English education and abandonment of the Catholic faith destroyed Elizabeth's plan to use him against the sugane earl.

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Patrick, lord of Kerry, joined the sugane earl, and the English - government finding that the Geraldines cause was prospering, attempted the never-failing policy of division. James Fitzgerald, son to the last earl of Desmond, had been given up to the English by his mother in one of her fits of anxiety about her personal safety. He had been taken to London, and kept in the Tower half prisoner and half ward ; and as . he was the legitimate heir to the tide and estates, Elizabeth bethought her of putting him forward to counteract the rapidly increasing influence of the earl, who could only lay claim to the nomination of Tyrone. The plan was wisely laid, and at first gave every promise of success. The youth was sent to Ireland, accompanied by Captain Vine, and landed at Youghal on the 14th of October, 1600. On the 18th he visited the lord president at Mallow, and proceeded from thence to Kilmallock. The people came to welcome him with shouts of joy, and so far the plan seemed to prosper even beyond the expectations of its framers.
The young earl, educated in England, and taught indifference and contempt for everything Irish, must have been amazed at his reception. He was little prepared for what followed. The next day being Sunday, the people, still waiting to welcome him with acclamation whenever he appeared, saw with amazement, and then with indignation, that he had forsaken, or had never been taught, the faith of his fathers and of theirs. He went to the Protestant church. It was enough — the acclamations gave place to murmurs of contempt, but even that seemed too much notice to bestow on one whom they believed faithless to his church. It did not require much penetration to see that the scheme had failed.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 238

Kinsale's Spittal or Lazar House endowment

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1590

An inquisition in the 32nd year of Queen Elizabeth found that the Spittal or Lazar House in Kinsale was endowed with lands worth 12 shillings annually. This was a medieval hospital for lepers or the sick.

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“Inquisition, 31st August, 32nd Queen Elizabeth, finds that the Spittal or Lazar House in this town was endowed with lands to the annual value of 12D. Chief Rem.
“ Priory of Regular Canons. — St. Gobban, a disciple of St. Ailb, was patron of the monastery of Kingsale, and in the sixth century we meet with St. Began of Kinnsaile.^ St. Senan lies buried here ; he presided over the Church of Cluan, between tho mountains Crot and Mairge, in Munster. White

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 434

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kinsale, there was once a medieval hospital here called the Spittal or Lazar House, for lepers and the sick. An inquisition held on the 31st of August in the 32nd year of Queen Elizabeth found it had been endowed with lands worth 12 shillings a year.

Kinsale surrenders to Spanish forces

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1601

Kinsale surrendered at discretion to the Spanish expedition under Don Juan, who issued a proclamation to reassure the inhabitants. The English council at Kilkenny, caught off guard by the news, debated whether to retire to Dublin or march directly to the scene; they chose the latter, and the Lord Deputy set out for Cork that night.

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Kinsale surrendered at discretion, and Don Juan issued a proclamation to give confidence to the inhabitants.
The English in Ireland were extremely disconcerted by the bold course. A council was being held at Kilkenny to consider what should be done if the Spaniards should arrive, and the announcement that they have arrived is suddenly made. Certainly there is no time to lose. Some were for retiring to Dublin to collect forces; others for departing at once to the scene of action. The latter plan was decided on. The Lord Deputy and Sir Robert Gardiner set out for Cork that night. In the mean time despatch had been sent to O’Neil, but it was two full months before he could join the Spanish army.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 250

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Kinsale, the town the road is passing through. In 1601 it surrendered at discretion to a Spanish expedition under Don Juan, who issued a proclamation to reassure the inhabitants. The English council at Kilkenny was already debating what to do if the Spaniards arrived, and the news caught them off guard. Some wanted to retire to Dublin to collect forces, while others argued for marching straight to the scene; they chose the latter, and the Lord Deputy and Sir Robert Gardiner set out for Cork that night. A despatch was sent to O'Neil, but it would be two full months before he could join the Spanish army.

MacCarthys slew two FitzGerald lords at Callan, 1261

Callan · street · Tipperary · 1261

In 1261 the MacCarthys killed two lords of the FitzGeralds—father and grandfather of Thomas Nappagh—in a single day at Callan in Desmond. Despite this victory, the FitzGeralds eventually dominated and imposed the tribute of Earl's Beeves on Carbery.

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“No history can parallel the bloody, malicious, and tedious contests that have been between these two families, in which— though the Mac Carthys behaved themselves briskly and slew no less than two lords of the Fitz Geralds in one day, viz., the father and grandfather of Thomas Nappagh, at Callan, in Desmond, anno. 1261— yet at length the more powerful Fitz Geralds had the best of it, and imposed on Carbry a most unjust and slavish tribute called Earl’s Beeves [it was, probably, in endeavouring to enforce this tribute that Maurice Dubh was killed], which, though as I conceive not maintainable by law is yet tamely paid by the Carbrians to this day for want of unity amongst them¬ selves to join in proper methods to get legally discharged of it. However, the Mac Carthys did not dwindle to so low a degree, but that they continued seized of almost six entire baronies viz. Glanarough, Iveragh, and Dunkerro, in Desmond ; and Carbry, Muskry, and Duhallow, in Cork. But the Earl of Desmond grew so powerful that upon his attainder there were forfeited to the Crown 574>628 acres of land,
3. Smith' s History of Cork , vol. 2, p. 35.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 137

O'Neill's insult to Barrett at Castlemore, 1600

Castlemore · townland · Cork · 1600

In 1600, O'Neil, Earl of Tyrone, marching by Castlemore near Mallow on his way to Kinsale to assist the Spaniards, asked who lived in the castle. Told it was Barrett, a good Catholic whose family had held the estate over 400 years, O'Neill declared he hated the English churl as if he came but yesterday.

Read the passage

Barretts Barony runs through Muskery, and takes its name from the ancient English family called Barrett, of whom it is said that O’Neil, Earl of Tyrone, anno 1600, when marching by Castlemore, near Mallow, on his progress to Kinsale to assist the Spaniards, asked who lived m that castle, and being told one Barrett, who was a good Catholic, and his family possessed of that estate above 400 years, 0 Neils wore, in Irish, “ no matter, I hate the English churl, as if he came
but yesterday.” ...

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 397

O'Neil's forces spare only Castlemaine in Geraldine devastation

Castlemaine · town · Kerry · 1598

In 1598, O'Neil's agents swept through Geraldine territory from Dungiven to the Suir, killing or expelling English settlers and seizing castles for the sugane Earl of Desmond. Castlemaine in Kerry was the sole exception, remaining outside the Earl's possession.

Read the passage

“ In the course of seventeen days, they left not, within the length or breadth of the country of the Geraldines, extending from Dungiven to the Suir, which the Saxons had well cul¬ tivated and filled with habitations and various wealth, a son of Saxon whom they did not kill or expel, nor did they leave within this time a single head residence, castle, or one sod of Geraldine territory, which they did not put into the possession of the Earl of Desmond, excepting only Castlemaine, in the county of Kerry. When these agents of the 0 Neil had thus, in a short time, accomplished this great labour, they took their leave and bade farewell to this Earl of Desmond, whom they themselves had appointed.”
This statement is a gross exaggeration. There was, no doubt, considerable disturbance in Munster ; but there were many “ sons of the Saxon ” who remained undisturbed and

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 238

Raymond le Gros besieging Limerick aids King MacCarthy

Limerick · city · Limerick · 1173

Raymond le Gros, then besieging Limerick, was called by King Dermod MacCarthy to suppress his rebellious son Cormac. Raymond seized Cormac and delivered him to his father, who had him beheaded.

Read the passage

Desmond’s eldest son was in rebellion against Ins father, and according to the fatal custom of the times, the father called in foreign aid to suppress the domestic broil. He asked the assistance of Raymond le Gros, who was then besieging Limerick, and Raymond set out without a moment’s hesitation, seized Cormac, and delivered him to his father, who had him beheaded. In gratitude for his assistance, Dermod bestowed a considerable portion of Kerry on Raymond. Raymond handed over the part to his eldest son, and so originated the family of Fitzmaurice, barons of Lixnau, now represented by the Marquis of Lansdowne.
It was a time of feuds, and the English barons were quite as willing to fight with and dispossess each other, as they were to fight with and dispossess the “ common enemy.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 109

As the companion tells it

As you come near Limerick, in 1173 Raymond le Gros was besieging this city when King Dermod MacCarthy called for his help. Dermod's eldest son Cormac was in rebellion against him, and the father called in foreign aid to suppress the domestic broil. Raymond set out without a moment's hesitation, seized Cormac, and delivered him to his father, who had him beheaded. In gratitude, Dermod bestowed a considerable portion of Kerry on Raymond. Raymond handed the land to his eldest son, and so originated the family of Fitzmaurice, barons of Lixnau, now represented by the Marquis of Lansdowne. It was a time of feuds, and the English barons were as willing to fight and dispossess each other as they were to fight the common enemy.

Spanish expedition lands at Smerwick Fort

Smerwick · townland · Kerry · 1580

The Spanish expedition landed on 13 September 1580 at Smerwick, at a fort called Dun-an-oir (Fort del Ore), situated on a rocky island connected to the south shore of Smerwick harbour by a narrow neck. O'Daly stated the fort was believed impregnable, but warned treason could destroy it.

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The expedition landed on the 13th September, 1580, and landed their stores at Smerwick. This fort, called by the Irish Dun-an-oir, by the Spanish translated to Fort-del-ore, is situated on an island connected with the south shore of Smerwick harbour. The island is a solid rock, about fifty feet high, with perpendicular sides, and is surrounded by the sea except in one narrow neck or passage, which connects it with the mainland. O’Daly says that this fort was believed to be impregnable. “ But,” he adds, “ what is there so strong that treason will not destroy V
The little Spanish fleet was sighted before landing, and the Earl of Clancare, who was encamped at Killorglen, near Killarney, and who, no doubt, had a very vivid anticipation of the probable consequences to his “ sonne,” if he was even suspected of complicity by his silence, sent a despatch in all haste to Cork. Another warning was sent from (Castle Magne) Castlemaine, Co. Kerry, by Andrew Martin, the constable, to St. Leger, and the Connors of Lixnaw, also sent a report to the Recorder of Limerick.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 217

St. Finbar surrenders Cill Cluana to Ruadan's pupils

Cloyne · town · Cork · 600–623

Pupils of St. Ruadan sought a place where the tongues of their bells would sound, and reached Cill Cluana (the Church of Gluain) where St. Finbar was residing. When the bells sounded there, the clerics were disheartened, but St. Finbar gave up the church and all its wealth to them in charity.

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‘ Go forth to where the tongues of your bells will sound, and it is in that place your resurrection will be on the last day, and remain in that place.’ They then went forth, till they reached Gill Cluana (the Church' of Gluain), where Barra was, and the bells sounded there, and the clerics became very much disheartened, as they did not ‘expect to get this church or place, Barra saw this, and' said to them : ‘ Be not disheartened,’ said he, ‘ for I will give up this church, and all the wealth and property that belonged to it, to God and to you.’ And so Barra gave his churdh to them, and the above-named clerics remained in that church. And Barra built twelve churches more after this before he came to Cork, and gave them all in charity and love of God. And he was then led by the angel to where Cork is to-day, where he settled down, in the seat of his resurrection.”
When St. Finbar established his monastery at Cork, it was a low, marshy swamp.1 The river Lee flowed through the . centre of the plain, and when it overflowed its waters the whole country appeared like one vast lake, which was then called Loch Ire. It was at the source of this river that St.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 40

Tullylease church and holy wells of St. Berechert

Tullylease · townland · Cork

The church at Tullylease is said to have been built by Saint Berechert (Benjamin), a disciple of Saint Patrick, when Patrick was in the district. A pagan chief challenged the saint to survive a fire trial; Berechert emerged unscathed while his pagan companion perished. Saint Benjamin's day in February is observed as a holiday, with people coming to pay rounds at two holy wells and before St. Ben's Stone, a carved cross slab against the abbey wall.

Read the passage

This church is said to have been built by Saint Berechert (Benjamin), a disciple of Saint Patrick’s. It is said to have been built when the great Apostle was in this district. A pagan chief, said he, would believe in his teaching if himself or one of his disciples went into a house which was then to be set on fire, and should he come forth scatheless. On this St. Berechert and a pagan priest were placed in a house, which was then set on fire. On their looking into the ruins the saint was found in a calm sleep, while his pagan associate was burned to ashes. Ever since Saint Benjamin’s day, in February, is observed as a holiday in the parish of Tullylease, and the country people for miles around come to “ pay rounds,” and pray at two holy wells, “ Saint Benn’s Well ” and “ Our Lady’s Well,” and before a large slab, called “St. Ben’s Stone,” which is laid against the abbey’s wall, on Avhich a very remarkable cross is carved. The church, which is a

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 444

Wine trade at Youghal (1535)

Youghal · town · Cork · 1535

In October 1535, Stephen ap Harry accompanied Lord James from Dungarvan to Youghal, where they received good hospitality and noted that a gallon of Gascon wine sold for 4d sterling. This detail illustrates the trade and commercial activity at the port town in the sixteenth century.

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“ My Lord James’s pleasure was that I should prepare to go with him to commune with a young gentleman (who) challenges to 'be the Earl of Desmond, Cormak Oge, and many others, and to see O’Breyn’s country : but my Lord Deputy would not let us have one of the battering pieces with us. From Dungarvyin we went to Youghall, where we had very <mod cheer, and where they sold a gallon of Gascon wine for 4d sterling. The second night we encamped by a castle called Cahermon, and there my Lord James mustered his host. He had with him 202 horsemen, and 312 galoglas, and 204
i

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 198

Youghal townsmen capture French privateer near Cable Island

Youghal · town · Cork

Townsmen of Youghal manned a boat with about forty seamen and soldiers and captured a French privateer anchored near Cable Island. The privateer had seized boats belonging to Youghal and held their crews hostage; five Frenchmen died and their captain was among seventeen wounded.

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“ The townsmen of Youghal having manned out a boat with about forty seamen and soldiers, took a French privateer that lay at anchor under Cable island. The privateer had seized on some boats belonging to the town, and sent in one of them for provisions, keeping the rest as hostages. Ihe French lost five men in the engagement, and Patrick Comerford, their captain, with the lieutenant and sixteen more were wounded. On the 23rd of August the Virginia fleet, being sixty sail, came into Kinsale, under the convoy of the Har¬ wich and Weymouth men of war.
“ The freemen of Cork petitioned the House of Commons against the mayor and aldermen, complaining of several unreasonable taxes imposed on them since the surrender of the city to King William, upon which the late mayor was ordered to be taken into custody, and Mr. Theophilus Morrice, one of the late sheriffs, commanded to attend the House.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 306

Advance to Kilmallock and Limerick

Kilmallock · town · Limerick

An army advanced towards Kilmallock and Limerick, cutting down woods along the way. The local lord had abandoned his castles and retreated into the mountains out of fear of ordnance, but returned once he realized the approaching force had none.

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Kilmulok and next day to Limeryk, and (as the saying was), with, a great host, and had hurled down the woods in the way, as we should have into his country, and had forsaken two of his castles hard by Limericke ; and heard that we were so nigh, he went into the mountains from us, for fear of ordnance ; and when he heard tell that we had no ordnance, then he restored his men into his castles again with such ordnance as he had of his own ; and without ordnance to beat the one pile we could not enter well into his country. There¬ fore my Lord James thought best to recoil back again, and to bring the Descemontes and Cormak Oge with his company to a stay, or that he would [pass] any further. And so in Limerick we had very good cheer, but not nothing like the cheer that we had in Cork. And so we departed an eight mile off to a place of religion, the which is after the order of Grenwyche, and my Lord of Kildare was the founder of it, for he hath castle and lands even there fast by ; and there met with my Lord James his brother-in-law, which is O’Briens son, and his saying is this to my Lord James : ‘ I have

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 200

Catholic priests openly saying Mass in Cork city

Cork · city · Cork

Dr. Lyon reported that Catholic priests maintained houses in Cork and other Munster cities where they openly celebrated Mass and moved freely among the citizens. He urged the Crown to challenge municipal charters in Waterford, Limerick, Cork, and Kinsale, arguing that reforming the cities would reform the surrounding countryside.

Read the passage

me. Those seditious enemies, the priests, have their houses for rent in the city of Corck and other cities and townes where they say their masses and "walk in the streets, and are conver¬ sant with the best in the citie, but when they are sought for they are conveyed away. Also where there are store-houses for the safe-keeping of her Majesty’s munition, it is not meet (under correction) that Irish Papists should have the keeping of the same, as in the cities of Munster they have. It is not convenient that those who hate her Highness’ lawes and religion should keep her defence. Under God what may come of this I refer to your godly judgment. As their charters are always ready against her Majesty, and that they challenge all fines and amercements imposed upon them, to the great hindrance of the revenue, specially in Waterford, Limerick, Corck, and the town of Kinsale ; it were meet that they should be com¬ pelled to shew their charters, whether they have observed them according to their grants or forfeited the 'same, that thereby it might be bridled and their obstinacy brought into subjection to her Majesty’s lawes. And this is most true. Reform cities and towns, and reform all the countries round about them, both in religion and civility. It is confirmed by experience, for the cities and townes are lanterns unto the countries wherein they are ; if the citizens and townesmen be good they give a light to the country, if they be bad the country learn of the townesmen their naughtynesses. Bridle the cities and townes, then the country will obey.”
And then he suggests a remedy— the usual one of relent¬ less persecution — in which, unhappily, he was but too ready to take an unusually active part, tie suggests that

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 171

As the companion tells it

As the road brings you through Cork, this city carries an older voice inside it. A man called Dr. Lyon sent a report to the Crown saying that Catholic priests had houses for rent here and in other cities and towns of Munster, where they said Mass openly. He wrote that the priests walked in the streets and were conversant with the best in the city. But when they were sought for, he said, they were conveyed away. He complained that Irish Papists had the keeping of her Majesty's store-houses for munition in the cities of Munster, and he argued it was not meet that those who hated her Highness's laws and religion should keep her defence. He went further. He said the cities challenged all fines and amercements imposed upon them, to the great hindrance of the revenue. He named Waterford, Limerick, Cork, and the town of Kinsale. He urged that they be compelled to show their charters, whether they had observed them according to their grants or forfeited the same, that thereby they might be bridged and their obstinacy brought into subjection to her Majesty's laws. He made the case plain: reform cities and towns, and reform all the countries round about them, both in religion and civility. He called cities and towns lanterns unto the countries wherein they are. If the citizens were good, they gave a light to the country. If they were bad, the country learned of the townsmen their naughtinesses. Bridle the cities and towns, he said, then the country will obey. He then suggested a remedy of relentless persecution, in which, the record notes, he was but too ready to take an unusually active part.

Countess imprisoned in Castlemaine fortress

Castlemaine · town · Kerry · 1588

After the secret marriage, the countess was conveyed to the strong fortress of Castlemaine and placed in the custody of Mr. Springe. Sir William Herbert petitioned for her removal from what he called a 'vile and unwholesome place.'

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The earl escaped, either because he was too powerful to be interfered with, or because his statement that he had not formally consented to the marriage was believed, but the countess was made the object of special vengeance. She was conveyed to the strong fortress of Castlemaine, and placed in the custody of Mr. Springe. Her unhappy fate touched Sir William Herbert, who wrote an urgent letter on her behalf to Walsingham, and assured him that she had acted by the orders of the earl, though he now threw the blame on her ; that he “ wishethe the countess trouble and ruin, that, by her deathe, he might advance himself to some newe marriage, wherebye her majestey’s ryght for remaynder may bee impeatched.”
Sir William further begged that he might be allowed to have the custody of the countess, and to take her out of that “ vile and unwholesome place.”

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 236

Desmond's exactions in County Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1567

Serious complaints were made about the Earl of Desmond's exactions, particularly in County Cork, around 1567. The lord justice's progress through Munster was partly aimed at reprimanding Desmond for his continual feud with Ormond.

Read the passage

Mac Carthy More had been created Earl of Clancar two years before, and it is said that Desmond influenced him very much against the English government. Serious complaints were also made at this time of Desmond’s exactions, particularly in the county Cork. The Four Masters, under the year 1567, say
“ The Earl of Desmond was taken prisoner at Kilmallock by the lord justice, who conveyed him from thence to Limerick, and from thence to Galway, to Athlone, and aftei wards to Dublin. This capture was made a short time after the festival of St. Patrick. And his kinsman, John, the son of James, went to the English to visit the earl the ensuing Allhallowtide, and he was immediately taken prisoner. Both were afterwards

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 197

As the companion tells it

Coming through Cork now. Around 1567, serious complaints were made about the Earl of Desmond's exactions, particularly in this county. Desmond had influenced Mac Carthy More, created Earl of Clancar two years before, against the English government. The Four Masters record: "The Earl of Desmond was taken prisoner at Kilmallock by the lord justice, who conveyed him from thence to Limerick, and from thence to Galway, to Athlone, and afterwards to Dublin. This capture was made a short time after the festival of St. Patrick." His kinsman John, the son of James, went to the English to visit the earl the ensuing Allhallowtide, and he was immediately taken prisoner. Both were afterwards held.

Donovan's banquet at Bruree and seizure of Mahoun

Bruree · town · Limerick · 974–976

Donovan invited King Mahoun of Munster to a banquet at his house in Bruree, with the Bishop of Cork guaranteeing Mahoun's safety. Donovan then treacherously handed Mahoun over to Ivor of Limerick and Molloy, who had troops stationed nearby.

Read the passage

These two men therefore formed a conspiracy with Ivor,7 who ruled over the Danes in Limerick, which had for its object to undermine the power of Mahoun, the eldest son of Kennedy, king of Munster. A plot was necessary, to get the unfortunate prince into their power. At the suggestion of Ivor, Donovan invited Mahoun to a banquet at his own house, at Bruree. The invitation was accepted, but either Mahoun had his suspicions, or the temper of the times made caution necessary, for he took care to have the security of the Bishop of Cork8 for his safety. But the traitors had pre¬ determined to violate all conditions ; and Donovan arranged to get Mahoun into the hands of Ivor and Molloy, who were
6. From our own MS. copy of the Annals of Innisfallen.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 70

Massacre of twenty-four men at Lislee

near Lislee · parish · Cork

Twenty-four men who had been given protection were murdered by Colonel Mynn's soldiers at Lislee during the 1641–42 conflict. The event is recorded as part of a wider series of massacres committed upon Irish civilians, including women and children.

Read the passage

were all inhumanly murdered, and the hearts of some of them pulled out and put into their mouths ; and many other massacres were committed the same time there upon women and children. At Lislee twenty- four men in protection were murdered by Colonel Mynn’s soldiers. At Bellanere eight poor labourers were killed by Captain Bridge’s men whilst in protection, and engaged in saving the harvest of the English. In 1642, at Clogheiulty, about 238 persons were murdered, of which number seventeen children were taken by the legs by the soldiers, who knocked out their brains against the walls. This was done by Forbes’s men and the garrison of Bandon Bridge. At Garanne, near Ross, Conner Kennedy, who had protection for himself and his tenants to save their harvest, were murdered by the garrison of Ross as they were reaping their corn. In 1641 the garrison of Bandon Bridge tied eighty-eight Irishmen of that town back to back, and threw them ofl the bridge into the river, where they were all drowned. Patrick Hackett, master of a ship in Waterford, when the Duchess of Ormond was desirous to be conveyed to Dublin, left her safe with her family and goods there, and received from the lords justices and Ormond a pass for his sale return, but being driven by a storm into Dungarvan, ' e and his men were hanged by direction of the commander-inchief ihere, notwithstanding that he produced the said pass.
( “ Tlie English party of this comity burned O’Sullivan Beare’s In.use in Bantry, and all the rest of that county, kdling man, woman, and child, and turning many into their houses, then on fire, to be burned therein, and among others Ihomas de Bucke, a cooper, about eighty years old, and his wife who was almost as asfed.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 296

Spanish ship reaches Ardea Castle with reinforcements

Ardea · townland · Kerry · 1602

On 5 June 1602 a Spanish ship sailed up the Kenmare river to Ardea Castle bearing gold, provisions, and a promise of large reinforcements for the besieged garrison. O'Sullivan set out at once with a small force to meet the vessel, looking his last upon his castle of Dunboy as he went.

Read the passage

On the 5th of June, the day on which this interview occurred, a Spanish ship sailed up the Kenmare river to Ardea castle, with gold, provisions, and, better still, a promise of large reinforcements. O’Sullivan set out at once with a small force to meet this vessel, and as he went he looked his last at his castle of Dunboy. On the 17th of June the place was so severely shattered by cannon that the garrison offered to sur¬ render, if allowed to depart with their arms. This was refused, as might be expected ; but the English commander had the mean and contemptible inhumanity to hang the man who brought the message. In civilized nations the bearers of such communications are always respected. The odds were fearful
_ four thousand outside, and not one hundred and fifty

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 256

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Ardea, a Spanish ship sailed up the Kenmare river on the 5th of June 1602, carrying gold, provisions, and a promise of large reinforcements to the castle here. O'Sullivan set out at once with a small force to meet the vessel, and as he went he looked his last upon his castle of Dunboy. On the 17th of June the place was so shattered by cannon that the garrison offered to surrender, if allowed to depart with their arms. The offer was refused. The English commander hanged the man who brought the message. The odds were four thousand outside, and not one hundred and fifty within.

St. Finbar dies in Cloyne

Cloyne · town · Cork · 500–600

St. Finbar traveled to Cloyne to die, and after his death his relics were brought back to the city of Cork with great honour.

Read the passage

The introduction of Christianity into Ireland— Why the Irish were well prepared to receive it — Cultivation of the peaceful Arts— Cork owes its foundation to Christian Monks — Omissions of former Historians — St. Finbar— His early life and piety — Peculiar circum¬ stances attending his birth — His father Amergin emigrates to the Co. Cork — Various ancient MS. Lives of St. Finbar — Miraculous occurrences at his baptism — His education — Miraculous supply of food' — He reads the “ alphabet”— Meeting with St. Brandon, who recognizes the sanctity and prophecies the future of St. Finbar — He is instructed in ecclesiastical rules by a holy man from Rome-*-He remains at Cloyne for some time, and why he leaves it — The piety and learning of his disciples — The state of Cork when St. Finbar founded the city — The swamp of Cork^-He asks St. Colman to be “the father of his confession” — He goes to Cloyne to die — His relics brought back to Cork with great honour — “ Seventeen holy bishops rest in Cork with Barri and Nessan” — St. Finbar’s virtues — He is distinguished for his charity, and “blooming sweet” to the poor — The ancient Latin Lives of St. Finbar — The famous Schools of Cork — Coleman O' Cluasiaghe — His poems — St. Molagga, or “ Laicin,” Patron of Tegh- Mollagga — His birth and parentage — Various places in Cork named after him— Timoleague, Mitchelstown, and Marshalstown.
hen St. Patrick came to Ireland to preach the gospel of Christ, he found a civilized people, who received him cordially. The intense respect of the pre-Christian Celt for his learned men, and for learning, and the comparative purity of such religion as he had, were all in his favour. Hence the Irish were the only people who received the gospel without bitterly persecuting their apostles ;• as they have been the only people on the earth who have been unswervingly faithful to the deposit of truth. Christianity being a religion of peace, its disciples were neccessarily preachers of peace ; hence the first effort in any country was to reconcile quarrels, to compose differences, and to avert wars. The peaceful arts came to be cultivated

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 34

Baileau plunders Protestant property from Cork city

Cork · city · Cork · 1689

Mr Baileau, co-governor of Cork with Lord Clare, was suspected of sending off to France goods valued at £30,000 in money, leather, and other commodities taken as spoils from the Protestants of Cork during the Jacobite administration.

Read the passage

were killed, and about 240 wounded. On the 7th of May the admiral got into Plymouth with the fleet. On the 1 ith of August the Lord Clare, governor of Cork, committed all the Protestants of the city to St. Peter’s, Christ Church,, and the courthouses. On the 10th of September several were sent to Blarney castle ; on the 1 ith many to Macroomp ; and October the 1 3th all the churches were shut up. In several places the governors went into houses and shops, seized what they found without the formality of a pretence, and took it away. Mr. Baileau (who was governor of Cork with Lord Clare), not failing in any punctilio of dragooning his country, was supposed to have sent off to France to the value of ^30,000 in money, leather, and other commodities, the spoils of the Protestants of this rich city.”
Sir Thomas Southwell and some other gentlemen marched to Galway, but in trying to escape the troubles of the county Cork found worse where they went, for Sir Thomas was sen¬ tenced to be hanged.5

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 302

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, this city carries a story from 1689. On the 11th of August that year, the Lord Clare, governor of Cork, committed all the Protestants of the city to St. Peter's, Christ Church, and the courthouses. On the 10th of September, several were sent to Blarney castle. On the 11th, many to Macroom. On the 13th of October, all the churches were shut up. In several places the governors went into houses and shops, seized what they found without the formality of a pretence, and took it away. Mr. Baileau, who was governor of Cork with Lord Clare, was supposed to have sent off to France to the value of £30,000 in money, leather, and other commodities, the spoils of the Protestants of this rich city. The book calls it not failing in any punctilio of dragooning his country.

Bantry Franciscan monastery history

Bantry · town · Cork · 1320–1602

The Franciscan monastery of Bantry was built by O'Sullivan around 1320 and reformed by Father David Harly in 1432. In 1508 the English seized it, killing two friars. Daniel O'Sullivan partially destroyed it in 1602 to prevent it becoming an English stronghold.

Read the passage

Bantry, Beanntraighe, derives the name from Beaun , a son of Conor Mac Nesa, King of Ulster in the first century. Accord¬ ing to the annals of the Four Masters, the monastery of Bantry was built by O’Sullivan, in the year a.d. 1320. The M.S. history of the Franciscan Order in Ireland adds : — “ The building of the convent of Bantry, in the diocese of Ross, was begun about the year 1320, and it was reformed by Father David Harly in the year 1432. When persecution arose it was seized on by the English in the year 1 508, two of the friars being killed, and the rest obliged to fly for their lives. Subsequently Daniel O’Sullivan, Earl of Berehaven, having driven out the English in the year 1602, partially destroyed it lest it should again become a stronghold of the enemy, promising at the same time to rebuild it as soon as possible. This, however, he never was able to accomplish, for be was obliged to fly into Spain, and there met an early deatn.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 392

As the companion tells it

The road is coming into the town of Bantry, in Cork. Its name comes from Beaun, a son of Conor Mac Nesa, King of Ulster in the first century. A Franciscan monastery was built here by O'Sullivan around 1320, in the diocese of Ross. Father David Harly reformed it in 1432. When persecution arose, the English seized it in 1508. Two of the friars were killed, and the rest were obliged to fly for their lives. Later, Daniel O'Sullivan, Earl of Berehaven, drove out the English in 1602. He partially destroyed the monastery, lest it should again become a stronghold of the enemy. He promised to rebuild it as soon as possible. He never was able to accomplish this. He was obliged to fly into Spain, and there met an early death.

Cannera's vision at Bantry

Bantry · town · Cork

A pious virgin named Cannera from Bantry saw a vision of towers of fire rising from the churches of Ireland, with the fire from Innis Cathaigh being the largest and most brilliant. She resolved to travel there for her resurrection, walking over the water at Limerick.

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“ The pious Cannera, a virgin saint of Beantraige (Bantry), in the south west of Erin, who established a desert in her own country. A certain night after vespers, as she was at her prayers, she saw all the churches of Ireland and a tower of fire rising out of every one of them up to heaven. The fire which rose out of Innis Carthaigh was the largest, the highest and most brilliant of all, and rose most directly heavenward. On beholding this the holy virgin exclaimed — that is a beautiful Reclis (church), said she, and it is to it I will go that my resurrection may be out of it. Oh Heavenly spouse, said she, whatever church or holy place that is, it is there I wish my resurrection to be, and she then prayed God that she might not lose sight of that tower of light, but like the tower of fire that led the children of Israel through the wilderness, so it might lead her into the place, and God granted her prayer. When she reached the water at Luimneach (Limerick), she went on foot over the water as if she walked
a contemporary print.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 93

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Bantry, the story goes that a pious virgin named Cannera lived here, a saint of the Beantraige, who kept a desert in her own country. One night after vespers, as she was at her prayers, she saw all the churches of Ireland, and a tower of fire rising out of every one of them up to heaven. The fire that rose out of Innis Cathaigh was the largest, the highest, and most brilliant of all, and rose most directly heavenward. On seeing this, the holy virgin said, "That is a beautiful church, and it is to it I will go, that my resurrection may be out of it." She said, oh heavenly spouse, whatever church or holy place that is, it is there I wish my resurrection to be. She prayed God that she might not lose sight of that tower of light, but that like the tower of fire that led the children of Israel through the wilderness, it might lead her into the place. And God granted her prayer. When she reached the water at Limerick, she went on foot over the water as if she walked on dry land.

Cathedral of Ross damaged in 1641 war

Ross Carbery · town · Cork · 1641

During the Confederate war of 1641, the nave and tower of the cathedral of Ross were levelled to the ground, leaving only the choir and two chapels intact. The chapels were dedicated to the Blessed Virgin and St. Fachnan, and pilgrims had formerly flocked there in such numbers that tax-free fairs arose from the custom.

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During the confederate war in 1641, as we learn from Lynch’s M.S. “ History of the Irish Sees,” “ the nave and tower of the cathedral were levelled to the ground the choir and two chapels remaining intact. One of these chapels was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, the other to St. Fachnan, and in former times, so great was the concourse of pilgrims to this church on the Feast of the Assumption and Nativity of the Blessed Virgin, that traders used to. come thither with their merchandize from all parts of the island, and m the fairs which had their origin in this custom, no tax was ior a long time imposed on any articles of merchandize.
pvIVERS —There are two “ silver” rivers in the county Cork —the Arglin (silvery) river a tributary of the Blackwater into which it falls below Kilworth : and the Angideen (little silver river) which empties itself into the bay of Courtmacsherry. The Avonmore river, now the Blackwater, falls into the sea at Youghal. Ptolmey calls this the Dabrona, the Black-flowing water, which no doubt is a translation of the ancient Celtic name. The Aubeg is the little river. The Awin Buy, the yellow-coloured river, in the barony of Kmalea,

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 443

As the companion tells it

As you come through Ross Carbery in Cork, the cathedral here was badly damaged in the war of 1641. According to Lynch's manuscript History of the Irish Sees, the nave and tower of the cathedral were levelled to the ground, leaving only the choir and two chapels standing intact. One of those chapels was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, the other to St. Fachnan. In former times, so great was the concourse of pilgrims to this church on the Feast of the Assumption and the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin, that traders used to come thither with their merchandise from all parts of the island. Fairs grew out of this custom, and for a long time no tax was imposed on any articles of merchandise sold at them. So what survived the destruction in 1641 was the choir and those two chapels, remnants of a church that had once drawn people from across the island on Marian feast days.

Cork citizens restore Catholic practices in churches

Cork · city · Cork · 1603

The citizens of Cork grew more rebellious, burning bibles and prayer books, replacing Scripture inscriptions with Catholic paintings, reconsecrating churches, publicly celebrating mass, and posting a papal legate who carried a cross in procession.

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soldiers from entering the towns ; yet they admitted several Irish into it, to whom they gave arms. Upon this delay to proclaim King James, Sir George Thornton told him he would proceed to the ceremony without him. Mead, the recorder, answered that he had no authority to do it in their liberty, nor would the citizens suffer it. However, Sir George, with Lord Roche, and about 800 soldiers, proclaimed his majesty in the north suburb, near Shandon Castle, but the mayor and sheriffs put off the solemnity to the 1 6th of April, and wrote to the lord deputy that they had received the king’s pro¬ clamation on the 1 ] th, but had deferred the publication of it that it might be done' with more solemnity, humbly praying that the fort of Halbowlin might be put into their hands, and complained that the soldiers, then in that fort, had shot at some fish women, and boats which the city had sent out for provisions. On the 18th April the Lord Mountjoy (being now, by a new patent, created lord lieutenant), received an account from the commissioners that the citizens had not only refused' to join them in proclaiming the king, but had also taken up arms, placed guards upon the town, and used such contemptuous words and actions, as would have raised a mutiny if they on their part had not behaved with great moderation and temper ; that they were obliged to furnish Halbowlin with stores from Kinsale ; that none of the citizens joined them when they proclaimed the king, and they beseeched the lord lieutenant to re-establish their authority by new letters patent, because the former were become void by the queen s death, which had emboldened the citizens to be thus insolent. The citizens, every day grew more rebellious, for they burned all the bibles and common prayer books they could find ; they rased out the ten commandments, and other parts of the Scriptures, that were in the churches, that they might wash them over, and paint their old Popish pictures in their stead. They hallowed the churches, publicly set up the mass, and posted sentinels at the doors. They had a person named a legate from the Pope, who went round in procession with a cross, and forced people to reverence it. They buried

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 276

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, this city was the scene of an open rebellion in 1603. The citizens refused to join the commissioners in proclaiming King James. Sir George Thornton, with Lord Roche and about 800 soldiers, proclaimed the king in the north suburb, near Shandon Castle. The mayor and sheriffs put off the ceremony to the 16th of April. They wrote to the lord deputy that they had received the proclamation on the 17th but deferred publication for solemnity. They asked that the fort of Halbowlin be put into their hands and complained that soldiers in that fort had shot at fish women and at boats the city had sent out for provisions. The commissioners told Lord Mountjoy, now lord lieutenant, that the citizens had taken up arms, placed guards upon the town, and used contemptuous words and actions. They said the queen's death had emboldened the citizens, and they asked for new letters patent, because the old ones were void. The citizens grew more rebellious. They burned all the bibles and common prayer books they could find. They rased out the ten commandments and other parts of the Scriptures in the churches, that they might wash them over and paint their old Popish pictures in their stead. They hallowed the churches, set up the mass, and posted sentinels at the doors. They had a person named a legate from the Pope, who went round in procession with a cross and forced people to reverence it.

Cork merchants send relief vessel to cruise off Cape Clear

Cape Clear · electoral division · Cork · 1785

Cork merchants fitted out a vessel supplied with beef and bread to cruise off Cape Clear, relieving any vessels kept at sea by persistent easterly winds. The supercargo was instructed to aid all distressed mariners regardless of nationality or destination, without taking remuneration.

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“April 30, 1 78 5. — The merchants of the city of Cork fitted out a vessel, well supplied with beef, bread, etc., to cruise off Cape Clear, for the purpose of relieving any vessels which the long continuance of easterly winds might keep at sea. The management of this expedition was entrusted to a confidential person, who went as supercargo, and was directed to relieve whomsoever he might meet with in distress, without consideration of the country to which the claimants belonged, or whither they were bound, and without taking any remu¬ neration.
July 29, 1786. — A desperate skirmish took place between thirty of the volunteers and upwards of six hundred Whiteboys, near Inchigelagh, in this county, in which three of the latter were killed, two drowned in endeavouring to make their escape across the river, several wounded, and nine taken prisoners.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 322

Cork refuses to proclaim James I as king

Cork · city · Cork · 1603

On 11 April 1603, Captain Morgan was sent to Cork to proclaim the new king, but the mayor and corporation refused, demanding time to consider. The recorder Meade gave passionate and defiant replies, and the citizens armed themselves and placed guards on the town gates.

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“Whereupon/’ says Smith, “the mayor and Corporation went to the court house to consider of so important a matter , and Sir George Thornton waited for them an hour in. an adjacent walk, having sent in to know the issue of their resolves. They put him off for another hour, and when that was expired, plainly told him they could not give their answer ’till the next day Mr. Boyle, (afterwards Earl of Cork), who was then clerk to the council, being present when this last answer was delivered (which, it seems, was done in a very passionate way by Mead, the recorder), desired him not to break out m so unreasonable and choleric a fashion Meade answered, that although he would not break out, there were several thousands ready to break out. Being told by Sir George Thornton that it was proper he should give a further account of Ins words, Mead replied well, well, and said that the city must take three or four days longer time to consult about the. solemnity. They then despatched a messenger to the mayor of Waterford, to know whether Queen Elizabeth was dead; and, (says Mr, Boyle), gave more credit seemingly to a report from that town than to the proclamation from the lord deputy and council. On the first notice they received of the queen’s death, and before they would proclaim the king, they consulted about surprising the fort of Halbowlin, and hindered Mr. Hughes, the king s store-keeper, to send amunition and provision to it, although he was ordered to do so by the commissioner The recorder pretended that there were two pieces of ordnance m that fort which belonged to the city, and that the provisions should not go till they were restored. They put ail the citizens under arms, and set strong guards upon their gates to prevent any
338 THE citizens grow more rebellious.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 276

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, 1603 stands out. A new king waited, and the city would not rush. On 11 April 1603, Captain Morgan was sent to proclaim James I. The mayor and corporation went to the courthouse to consider so important a matter. Sir George Thornton waited an hour in an adjacent walk, and sent in to know the outcome. They put him off another hour, then told him plainly they could not give their answer until the next day. Boyle, afterwards Earl of Cork, then clerk to the council, was present when this last answer was delivered in a very passionate way by Meade, the recorder. Boyle desired him not to break out in so unreasonable and choleric a fashion. Meade answered that although he would not break out, there were several thousands ready to break out. Sir George Thornton told Meade it was proper he should give further account of his words. Meade replied, "well, well," and said the city must take three or four days longer to consult about the solemnity. They sent a messenger to the mayor of Waterford to know whether Queen Elizabeth was dead. Boyle noted they gave more credit seemingly to a report from that town than to the proclamation from the lord deputy and council. On first notice of the queen's death, and before they would proclaim the king, they consulted about surprising the fort of Halbowlin. They hindered Hughes, the king's store-keeper, from sending ammunition and provision to it, though ordered by the commissioner. The recorder pretended there were two pieces of ordnance in that fort belonging to the city, and that the provisions should not go until they were restored. They put all citizens under arms and set strong guards upon their gates.

Cormac Mac Airt encamped at Knocklong, Druid Mogh Ruith summoned from Valentia

Knocklong · town · Limerick · 220

Cormac Mac Airt invaded Munster around A.D. 220 and encamped at Drom Damhghaire, now Knocklong in County Limerick. The Druid Mogh Ruith was summoned from Valentia Island to assist the Munster men, who won a splendid victory and drove out the invaders; Magh Meine (Fermoy) was conferred on the Druid as reward.

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4. Magh Meine was the ancient name of Fermoy, by which it was known until Munster was invaded by Cormac Mac Airt about A.D. 220. He encamped at Drom Damhghaire, now Rnocklong, in the Co. Limerick. Mogk Ruith, a famous Druid, was sent for from Oilean Daicke, now the island of Valentia, to assist the Munster men. He did this so effectually, that they obtained a splendid victory, and drove out the. invaders. Magh Meine was conferred on the Druid in reward for his services ; it was called Fearn Moga, or the and of Muga, ” as written in some old MSS. His tribe and family, who settled down in this territory, took the tribe name of Fer Mugia, i.e., “the men of Mugar, anglicised Fermoy ; and the race of Mogh Ruth continue to inhabit there even to this day in the families of O’Dugan, O’Cronin, and others in that and the neighbouring districts. The folio whig extract from MS. Book of Lismore further illustrates its names :
“They then sent for the clay of Comlehaille Meic Con., i.e., the Caile (or land) o Mene,” son of Ere, son of Deaghaidli, which is called Fir Mulghe, i.e., Fermoy, to¬ day. The reason it is called Caile Meic n Eirce is because his sons dwelt there, namely, Mene, son of Ere, and Uatha, son of Ere, and Ailbhe, son of Ere. Another name for it was Fir Muighe Mene, so called because of the abundance of the minerals contained in the mountains around it, and because there are minerals in all the fields around it also. Another name for it was Corr Chaille Meic Con, because it was the patrimony of the Clann Dairine ; and it is in it Rossachna-Righ is, i.e. , Ross-na-Righ, the ancient burial place of the Kings of Munster ; and it is there Mac Con was till the time of the battle of Ceann Abrath.”

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 86

Death of St. Finbar (Barra) at Cloyne

Cloyne · town · Cork

St. Barra (Finbar), after founding churches and monasteries, went to Kill-na-Cluana (Cloyne) where he consecrated two churches with Fiana. He died at the cross in the middle of the church of Cloyne, and his body was taken to Cork, the place of his resurrection.

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arrived, after erecting churches and monasteries to God, and appointing over them bishops, priests, and other degrees, and baptising and blessing districts and people, Barra went to Kill-na-Cluana (i.e., Cloyne), and with him went Fiana, at the desire of Cormac and Baoithin, where they consecrated two churches. Then he said, £ It is time for me to quit this corporeal prison, and to go to the Heavenly King, who is now calling me to Himself.’ And then Barra was confessed and received Holy Sacrament from the hand of Fiana, and his soul went to heaven at the cross which is in the middle of the church of Cloyne ; and there came bishops, priests, monks, and disciples, on his death being reported, to honour him. And they took him to Cork, the place of his resurrection, honouring him with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs ; and the angels bore his soul with joy unspeakable to heaven, to the company of the patriarchs, prophets, apostles, and disciples of Jesus Christ, and of the Holy Trinity, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.” 5
It has already been remarked that the pre-Christian Celt

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 45

Dermot Mac Carthy buried at Kilcrea, 1536

Kilcrea · townland · Cork · 1536–1563

Dermot Mac Carthy, the seventh chieftain of Muskerry, died in 1536 and was buried at Kilcrea. He defeated the Geraldines under Sir Maurice of Desmond in 1563, taking his father-in-law prisoner.

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In 1563 Dermot Mac Carthy, the seventh chieftain of Muskery, (“this lord died in 1536, was buried at Kilcrea”), again defeated the Geraldines under the command of Sir Maurice of Desmond, his father-in-law ; the latter was taken prisoner, and he, whilst left in the keeping of four horsemen, was slain by his guard (but his preservation, say the Four Masters, would have been more profitable than any victory gained by his death, and the man who was slain was the high tempered steel of the Geraldines in dangerous conflict, the plunderer of his enemies, and the slayer of his opponents. The eighth lord was Cormac Mac Teige, “ the rarest man that was ever born among the Irishry,” according to Sir Henry Sydney. He was knighted by the Lord Justice of Ireland, and appointed sheriff of the county of Cork, in consequence of a victory obtained by him over Sir James, brother of the Earl of Desmond. The power of the Mac Carthys at this period was very considerable.
Cormac Oge, the ninth lord, died in. 1640. He was succeeded by his son, Donogh, a name distinguished in the history of his times. He took an early and decided part in the unfortunate civil war, which broke out in 1641, and was appointed one of the leaders of the confederate Catholics, in wliich situation Lord Castlehaven assures us, he did all he could to bring back the whole nation to their obedience to the king and laws, and in this he was aided by his whole party — the O’Callaghans and Other men of note in Munster. In the beginning of 1642 he appeared in Carbery, in the west of the county, at the head of a numerous host, led by his own ffeudatorees, Mac Carthy Reagh, O’Donovan, O’Sullivan, etc., and with these prepared to lay siege to Cork.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 399

Dominic de Burgo imprisoned and escaped from Kinsale gaol, 1648

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1648

In 1648 Dominic de Burgo, a young Dominican and relative of the Earl of Clanricarde, was captured aboard a ship bound for Spain and imprisoned at Kinsale. He escaped by jumping from the top of the gaol wall onto the sea shore, hid for two days in a neighbouring wood covered in mud, and eventually found shelter with the Roches, probably at Garrettstown.

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In 1648 Dominic de Burgo, a young professed member of the Order of Preachers, and near relative of the . Earl of Clanricarde, was made prisoner on board of the ship in which he had taken his passage to Spain to pursue his studies. He was thrown into prison at Kinsale, whence he made his escape by jumping from the top of the gaol wall down on the sea shore. For two days he lay concealed in a neighbouring wood, all covered with mud, without clothing, food, or drink. At length he found shelter under the hospitable roof of the Roches in that neighbourhood, probably of Garrettstown. He was at a later period of life the celebrated Bishop of Elphin, for whose head or capture the government offered a large reward, and to whom Oliver Plunket, the martyred Arch¬ bishop of Armagh, wrote from his dungeon warning him of the attempts of the Privy Council agains this life. He died in exile.
In 1651 Father Eneas Ambrose O’Cahill, an eloopient preacher and zealous missionary in Cork, being recognised as a friar of a Dominican community, was rushed upon by a troop of Cromwell’s soldiers, cut to pieces with their sabres, and his limbs were scattered about to be trampled under foot.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 418

As the companion tells it

As the road passes through Kinsale, you are coming through a town with a story from 1648. Dominic de Burgo, a young professed member of the Order of Preachers and a near relative of the Earl of Clanricarde, had taken passage on a ship to Spain to pursue his studies when he was made prisoner. He was thrown into prison in this town. He escaped by jumping from the top of the gaol wall down onto the sea shore. For two days he lay concealed in a neighbouring wood, all covered with mud, without clothing, food, or drink. At length he found shelter under the hospitable roof of the Roches in that neighbourhood, probably at Garrettstown. He later became the celebrated Bishop of Elphin, for whose head or capture the government offered a large reward. Oliver Plunket, the martyred Archbishop of Armagh, wrote to him from his dungeon, warning him of the attempts of the Privy Council against his life. He died in exile.

Earl of Surrey writes from Dublin on Cork bishopric vacancy

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1520

After the death of the Bishop of Cork in 1520, the Earl of Surrey, lord deputy, wrote from Dublin to Cardinal Wolsey recommending that the bishopric worth two hundred marks per annum be bestowed on an Englishman rather than a man of Ireland. He urged that no one of the country should have it.

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“ Pleaseth your Grace to understand that the Bishop of Cork is dead ; and great suit is made to me to write for men of this country. Some say it is worth two hundred marks per annum, some say more. My poor advice would be that it should be bestowed on some Englishman. The Bishop of Leighlin, your servant, having both, methinks he might do good service here. I beseech your Grace let none of this country have it, nor none other but such as will dwell thereon, and such as are able to speak and ruffle when need shall be.
This letter is dated Dublin, 27th August, I52°> an<^ what-

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 174

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dublin, the Earl of Surrey wrote to Cardinal Wolsey in August 1520. The Bishop of Cork had died. Surrey was lord deputy. He told Wolsey that great suit was made to him to write for men of this country. The bishopric was worth two hundred marks per annum, some said more. His advice was that it should be bestowed on some Englishman. He named the Bishop of Leighlin, Wolsey's servant, who might do good service there. Surrey begged that no one of this country have it, nor anyone but such as will dwell thereon, and such as are able to speak and ruffle when need shall be.

Earls of Desmond and Kildare assemble at Kilkenny against Lord Justice

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1346

In 1346, the Earl of Desmond refused to attend Parliament and instead he and the Earl of Kildare held their own assembly at Kilkenny. There they drew up articles against the Lord Justice, which resulted in his removal from office.

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Next year, 1346, he was summoned to another Parliament, which he also refused to attend ; and thereupon, he and the Earl of Kildare assembled a meeting of their own at Kilkenny, and drew up articles against the Lord Justice, which procured his removal.
“ In his place, Sir Walter Bermingham was sent over, who procured the earl liberty to manage his cause in England, where he was kindly received, being allowed 20s. a day to defray his ex} e a; es ; and being there very act ve in his own cause, he obtained satisfaction for the wrongs done him by Sir Ralph Ufford, so that in the year 1352 he was restored to all his estate and jurisdictions. 2

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 123

English paid MacCarthy of Muskerry for protection

near Muskerry · street · Cork

By the mid-fifteenth century the Irish had become so powerful in County Cork that the English paid forty pounds a year to MacCarthy of Muskerry for his protection. This reflected the dramatic shift in power away from the Anglo-Norman settlers.

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This letter says, that the king had all Barry Oge’s estate by forfeiture, worth £1,800 sterling, and desires that those lords and the Irish may be bound over, upon pain of life and goods, not to make war upon each other, by which the country was brought to destruction ; and the Irish, who were formerly driven to the mountains of Glancrough, were now returned and become stronger than the English — of whom only the lords Roche, Courcy, and Barry then remained— and requests that proper persons may be sent over to command the English, and quiet the country. See letter in Campion, p. 94. Sir Richard Cox (vol. 1, p. 162), says this letter was wrote in Henry VI. ’s time, anno. 1449. But I have seen a letter from Archbishop Usher to the Lord Courcy, dated at Drogheda, December 12, 1626, (of which I tobk a copy), wherein the primate says this letter was wrote in Henry IV.’s time, and gives an account of the Lord Courcy, mentioned in several ancient records which he furnished Lord Kingsale with, on an occasion of a dispute between that lord and Sir Dominick Sarsfield, who was created Viscount Kingsale by King Charles I., but was obliged afterwards to change his title for that of Killmallock. The Irish at this time were so powerful in the county Cork that the English paid foi ty pounds a-year to Mac Carthy, of Muskery, for his protection.
156 ALLIANCE OF ANGLO-NORMANS AND IRISH.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 142

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Muskerry, in the mid-fifteenth century, the balance of power in County Cork had turned. The English, who once held the country, had been pushed back so far that only the lords Roche, Courcy, and Barry remained of them. A letter from the time, dated to 1449 in the reign of Henry the Sixth, says the king had all of Barry Oge's estate by forfeiture, worth 1,800 pounds sterling. That same letter tells how the Irish, who had formerly been driven to the mountains of Glancrough, had returned and grown stronger than the English. It asks that proper persons be sent over to command the English and quiet the country, which had been brought to destruction by warring between the lords and the Irish. The Irish at this time were so powerful in the county that the English paid forty pounds a year to MacCarthy of Muskerry for his protection. Archbishop Usher later wrote to the Lord Courcy in 1626, saying the letter was actually from the time of Henry the Fourth, not Henry the Sixth.

Florence MacCarthy sends private messages to allies in Kinsale

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1600

The Protestant bishop of Cork reported that Florence MacCarthy secretly sent messages to friends in towns where he was well favoured, especially Kinsale, claiming he remained loyal to the Queen and was only drawing O'Neil into war for his own safety.

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“ Tike case thus standing, Florence Mac Carthy yet for all this pollitikely and imprudently, gives it forth in private messages to his friends in the towns where he is well favoured, especially in Kinsall, that he continueth loyall to her Majestie, and did what is dene in deep pollicie to Coossen Tirone by warr1 out of England, for the better safety of himself and his countries. The Irish do beleeve this, and hold him for that a good subject, yea and of the English also, not knowing that this was the verie practise of O’Neyll himself at his first entrance into action of rebellion, to dally with the state and the world e, until he had fitted himself, as your honor best knoweth. Florence being in camp besides Kinsall with O’Neyll, had thereout upon his left1;* from his friends bottells of wyne and better relief. I cannot but deliver this unto your honor, wishing it might be looked unto with other of the Towne’s doings. The 2 7th of the last Florence wrote unto Sir Henry Power for protection to parley with him. The council did agree, and gave him ward. The day following comes Florence within two miles of Cork with 300 Connaugh
1. Lord Barry was warned repeatedly that he woujd suffer for it if he did not join the national party. He was, at least, nominally a Catholic, and the Bishop of Cork joined his entreaties to those of O’Neil and others, enjoining him to help his persecuted brethren. But Lord Barry seems to have had more regard .for the herds of Ibawn, his kine, and his mares, and his garans, than for his religion.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 241

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kinsale, the town sits as a place the road passes through in Cork. In 1600, this was where Florence MacCarthy sent private messages to friends, telling them he remained loyal to Queen Elizabeth and was only drawing O'Neill into war to secure his own safety. The Protestant bishop of Cork reported that Florence spread these claims secretly in towns where he was well favoured, especially Kinsale. He told his allies that what he did was deep policy to draw Cousin Tyrone out of England by war, for the better safety of himself and his countries. The Irish believed this and held him for a good subject. Some of the English believed it too, not knowing that this was the very practice of O'Neill himself at his first entrance into rebellion, to dally with the state until he had fitted himself. Florence was in camp beside Kinsale with O'Neill, and from the town his friends sent him bottles of wine and better relief. The bishop could not but deliver this to his honour, wishing it might be looked into along with other of the town's doings. On the 27th, Florence wrote to Sir Henry Power asking for protection to parley with him. The council agreed and gave him ward. The following day Florence came within 2 miles of Cork with 300 Connaught men.

French officer Prosheau captured on Bantry shore

Bantry · town · Cork · 1796

Lieutenant Prosheau and eight men were driven ashore in a boat near Bantry while attempting to leave a dismasted vessel. Captured by local peasantry, they were sent first to Cork and then to Dublin for examination before the Privy Council.

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“December 14, 1796. — A French fleet, consisting of 18 sail of the line, 14 frigates, 5 large transports, and some small vessels, sailed from Brest with 25,000 troops. The signal having been given for sailing out through the passage de Baz, La Fraternite, frigate, with the admiral and General Hoche on board, and a few other ships succeeded ; but it was by the passage de Flotes that the greater part of the fleet bore out to sea, and the first division being unable to join them in con¬ sequence of a gale of wind coming on, the admiral’s vessel was separated from the rest of the fleet. Several of the ships were wrecked. The remainder came within view of the Irish coast in three days, but having mistaken the Dursey for the Mizen Head, did not reach Bantry Bay until the 24th. On the morning of the 23rd the people of Cork were thrown into consternation by accounts which arrived of a large fleet having been seen off Bantry. The militia and fencible regiments were immediately despatched to this town, whilst the loyal Cork legion and the Cork volunteers got under arms, and a detachment of cavalry from both escorted the artillery to Bandon, and other parts of them went off to the different towns of Munster, to order in the military quartered there. All the citizens capable of carrying arms enrolled themselves amongst the yeomanry, and a determined resolution to resist the invader seemed to pervade every class of the population. On the 24th, the French fleet, consisting of seven ships of the line, and two ships armie en flute , beside frigates and trans¬ ports, making in the whole seventeen sail, anchored in the bay. Lieutenant Prosheau, a French officer, with eight men, was driven on shore in a boat, in an attempt to leave one of the vessels which had been dismasted in the late storm. Being taken prisoners by the peasantry they were sent to Cork, and from thence to Dublin, to be examined before the Privy Council. The French fleet remained in the bay until the 27th, when they quitted their station without having made any further attempt to land, and on the 28th the last division sailed out of the bay. On the 30th four ships of sixty-four guns, three frigates, two razures, and two corvettes,

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 323

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Bantry, this is the town where, in December 1796, a French fleet arrived carrying thousands of troops. On the 14th of that month, 18 ships of the line, 14 frigates, 5 large transports, and smaller vessels sailed from Brest with 25,000 troops. A gale separated the admiral's vessel, La Fraternite, carrying the admiral and General Hoche, from the rest of the fleet. Several ships were wrecked. The remainder reached the Irish coast in three days, but having mistaken the Dursey for the Mizen Head, did not reach Bantry Bay until the 24th. On the morning of the 23rd, the people of Cork were thrown into consternation by accounts of a large fleet seen off Bantry. Militia and fencible regiments were despatched to this town. The loyal Cork legion and the Cork volunteers got under arms. A detachment of cavalry escorted the artillery to Bandon, and others went to the different towns of Munster to order in the military quartered there. All citizens capable of carrying arms enrolled amongst the yeomanry, and a determined resolution to resist the invader pervaded every class. On the 24th, the French fleet, seven ships of the line and two ships armee en flute, beside frigates and transports, making seventeen sail in all, anchored in the bay. Lieutenant Prosheau, a French officer, with eight men, was driven on shore in a boat, in an attempt to leave one of the vessels which had been dismasted in the late storm. Being taken prisoners by the peasantry, they were sent to Cork, and from thence to Dublin, to be examined before the Privy Council. The French fleet remained in the bay until the 27th, when they quitted their station without having made any further attempt to land, and on the 28th the last division sailed out of the bay. On the 30th, four ships of sixty-four guns, three frigates, two razures, and two corvettes remained in view.

James O'Brien introduces gas lighting in Cork, 1816

Cork · city · Cork · 1816

Mr. James O'Brien illuminated his shop in Cork with gas on 1 May 1816, an arrangement noted for its neatness and novelty. This marked an early instance of gas lighting in the city.

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Cause and effects of the Rising of ’98— Political clubs founded some years previous1)' by Protestants — Henry Sheares. president of the Free Debating Society in Cork — Restric¬ tions on Irish trade removed when it was too late — Landing of the French at Bantry Bay— What Pitt and his friends, did— The French were entirely deceived as to the state of Ireland— The French fleet sighted— State of the roads— Mr. White gives the first notice to government, and-gets a peerage — Account of public events from a pamphlet published in Cork at the time — Letter of the Catholic Bishop of Cork — The influence it has in preserving peace acknowledged by the government of the day — Cork theatricals — Popular songs on the invasion — Notes from Tuckey’s Cork Remembrancer — Foundation of the Royal Cork Institution — Complaints of nuisances — State of “the third city in his Majesty’s dominions ” — New road between Cork and Kerry — What the Cork Mercantile Paper said of the chairing of Hely Hutchinson — Mr. James O’Brien lights his shop with gas, May 1, 1816 — “ Neatness and novelty” of the arrangement — Death of Curran— Notes to this chapter showing the state of the country, from parliamentary reports — Speeches of the Protestant Bishop of Down and others.
^ he rising of 1 798 was caused by the great distress which prevailed throughout Ireland, the result of long years of persecution and civil war, and of a steady suppression of every attempt made by the Irish to improve their condition.1

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 325

As the companion tells it

Cork is the city around you now. On the 1st of May, 1816, a man named James O'Brien lit his shop here with gas. The arrangement was remarked on for its neatness and novelty. That is about all the record gives us — a single line in a chapter summary of a history of Cork, tucked among other matters. It tells us no more about O'Brien himself, or where his shop stood, or how he came by the gas, or what became of the lighting after that day. What we do know is that it marked an early instance of gas lighting in the city. The same source notes Cork described as the third city in his Majesty's dominions, and lists complaints of nuisances about the place, but offers nothing further on O'Brien or his gas. So you have it: a shopkeeper, a spring day in 1816, and a light that people found neat and new.

John Annyas executed at Dunboy

near Dunboy · street · Cork · 1600–1602

John Annyas, who had been recruited to spy on and poison Florence Mac Carthy, eventually met his end at Dunboy. The night before his execution he wrote to the Baron of Lixnaw protesting his virtue and blaming Wingfield for betraying him.

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Annyas was imprisoned, but he was not hanged. Perhaps he declined making the much desired confession. He turns up next at Dunboy, where his career terminates, and the night before his execution he wrote to the Baron of Lixnaw as if he
had been the virtuost man in all the world, and the truest friend.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 246

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Dunboy, John Annyas met his end. He had been imprisoned, but he was not hanged. Perhaps he declined making the confession they wanted from him. He turns up next at Dunboy, where his career terminates. The night before his execution he wrote to the Baron of Lixnaw, as if he had been the most virtuous man in all the world, and the truest friend.

King James II lands at Kinsale and hears mass in Cork

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1689

On 12 March, King James landed at Kinsale and soon came to Cork, where he heard mass in a new chapel near the Franciscan Friary, supported through the streets by two friars. He was received and entertained by Donough, Earl of Clancarty, on his landing.

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“ On Wednesday, the 12th of March, King James landed in Kinsale, who soon after came to Cork, where, on the next Sunday, he heard mass in a new chapel, lately erected near the Franciscan Friary. Through the streets he was supported by two friars of that order, and attended by many others in their habits. He was received and entertained by Donough, earl of Clancarty, on his landing, at which time the king made him one of the lords of his bedchamber, and his regiment a royal regiment of guards. He was also made clerk of the crown and peace throughout this province, by letters patent. On the 1 4th, 5,000 French landed at Kinsale, under Count Lauzun and the Marquise de Lang. In their room King James sent back
374

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 300

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kinsale, that town on the Cork coast, it is where King James landed on the 12th of March, 1689. He was received and entertained on his landing by Donough, Earl of Clancarty, whom the king made one of the lords of his bedchamber and whose regiment he made a royal regiment of guards. Soon after, James came to Cork, where on the next Sunday he heard mass in a new chapel lately erected near the Franciscan Friary. Through the streets he was supported by two friars of that order, and attended by many others in their habits. Two days after the landing, on the 14th, 5,000 French landed at Kinsale under Count Lauzun and the Marquis de Langle.

Mac Maurice destroys Lixnaw and neighbouring towns

Lixnaw · town · Kerry

Upon learning his territory had been plundered and a captain slain by his sons, Mac Maurice destroyed several settlements in his own country including Lixnaw, his seat, before joining his sons in rebellion. The destruction reflects the scorched-earth character of the Desmond wars in Clanmaurice.

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“ The sons of Mac Maurice then retired with then* prey, and afterwards encamped round the town to besiege the soldiers. A gentleman of the Clann Sheehy , who was a ong with the sons of Mac Maurice at this time, was slain in the doorway of the monastery of O’Dorney, by the sons o t e Bishop of Kerry, who were aiding the queen’s people on that occasion. Mac Maurice himself, and the greater num er in his country, had been hitherto obedient to the law, but w en he saw his territory plundered, and when he heard that t le captain had been slain by his sons, he at once destroyed Leacs Namha [Lixnaw], Lis-Tuarhail [Listowel], Bialle [Beale], and Baile-an-Brinonneanaigh [Ballybrinnion]. He afterwards joined his sons. He was not joined in this evil career by t e inhabitants of Baile-mhic-an-chain [BallymacqueenJ or o Baile-Ui-Choeluighe [Ballyhealy], or the Clann-Pierce. Mac Maurice took his sons away from the town [Ardfert], and t ley all went back to the woods, and they were scarcely gone when Captain Sinitsi [Zouch] came into the country on report of the killing of Captain Hudson, and to relieve his people ; and as he had not overtaken them [the Lord Keny s party] a 011 the town, he hanged the hostages of the country, mere children, who were in the custody of his people.
After this act of barbaric vengeance he placed some of his people in Leac Beibhoinn (Lachbeone), which had formerly belonged to the O’Connor Kerry, but had been wrested from it by Lord Kerry during the general disturbance. In the meantime the Earl of Desmond marched to Ardfert, and there another engagement took place, in which the Geraldines were successful. The effects of this war were severely felt by the Fitzmaurices, though they secreted their treasures in the « hollows of trees, or of rocks, or in the subterranean caverns, or under the roots of trees.” Well might the annalist record the melancholy fact that "the lowing of a cow, or the voice

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 229

Dalcassian capture of Limerick, 968

Limerick · city · Limerick · 968

In 968 the Dalcassians seized Limerick from the Danes, taking vast spoils including gold, silver, jewels, and captives. Prisoners deemed fit for war were killed at the hillocks of Saignel, while those fit for servitude were enslaved.

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The Dalcassians now obtained possession of Limerick, with immense spoils of jewels, gold and silver, foreign saddles, “soft, youthful, bright girls, blooming silk-clad women, and active well-formed boys.” The active boys were soon disposed of, for we find that they collected the prisoners on the hillocks of Saignel, where “ every one that was fit for war was put to death, and every one that was fit for a slave was enslaved. This event is dated a.d, 968.
Mahoun was now firmly established on the throne, but his success procured him many enemies. A conspiracy was formed against him under the auspicies of Ivor of Limerick and his son Dubhcerm. The Eoghanist clans basely withdrew their allegiance from their lawful sovereign, allied themselves with the Danes, and became principals in the plot of assassination, Their motive was as simple as their conduct was vile. The two Eoghanist families were represented by Donovan and Molloy. They were descendants of Oilioll Ollim, from whom Mahoun was also descended, but his family were Dalcassians. Hitherto the Eoghanists had succeeded in depriving the tribes of Dal-Cais of their fair share of alternate succession to the throne of Munster ; they became alarmed at, and jealous of, the advancement of the younger tribe, and determined to do by treachery what they could not do by force. With the usual headlong eagerness of traitors, they seem to have for¬ gotten Brian, and quite overlooked the retribution they might expect at his hands for their crime.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 68

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Limerick now. In 968 the Dalcassians seized this city from the Danes, and the spoils were vast. Gold, silver, jewels, foreign saddles. The source quotes an old description of the captives taken: soft, youthful, bright girls, blooming silk-clad women, and active well-formed boys. Those active boys were dealt with quickly. The prisoners were gathered on the hillocks of Saignel. There, every prisoner fit for war was put to death, and every prisoner fit for a slave was enslaved. After the capture, Mahoun was firmly established on the throne. But his success brought him enemies. A conspiracy formed against him under Ivor of Limerick and his son Dubhcerm. The Eoghanist clans withdrew their allegiance from their lawful sovereign and allied themselves with the Danes, becoming principals in a plot of assassination. The two Eoghanist families were represented by Donovan and Molloy. They were descendants of Oilioll Ollim, from whom Mahoun was also descended, but his family were Dalcassians. The Eoghanists had long deprived the tribes of Dal-Cais of their fair share of alternate succession to the throne of Munster. They grew alarmed at the advancement of the younger tribe and resolved to do by treachery what they could not do by force. In their headlong eagerness, they seem to have forgotten Brian, and overlooked the retribution they might expect at his hands.

Desmond's camp at Aghadoe attacked by Zouch

Aghadoe · parish · Kerry · 1581

The Earl of Desmond was encamped at Aghadoe near Killarney when Captain Zouch marched day and night with cavalry to attack the camp on a Sunday morning. Zouch slew all those found straying in the streets without mercy and proceeded directly to Castlemaine.

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“ The Earl of Desmond was encampted at Uch-da-eo [Aghado, near Killarney], and at the time an English captain, namely, Sinitoe [Zouch], was appointed by the queen and the lord justice to preside over Desmond and Kerry. The captain marched day and night with a party of cavalry to make an attack on the camp of the Earl of Desmond, and it was on a Sunday morning that he arrived at the camp. The earl and all those who were with him were at this time buried in deep sleep and profound slumber, for they had remained vigilant on the watch all the night, and until that time. This captain immediately and alertly attacked all those whom he found straying in the streets, and slew them without mercy, nor did he wait for battle or engagement, but proceeded directly until he reached Castlemaine.”

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 222

Foundation of Ross monastery by St. Fachtna

Ross Carbery · town · Cork · 570–590

St. Fachtna founded the monastery of Ross after studying at Loch-Eirche and serving as abbot of Molana near Youghal. The monastery became so renowned for pilgrims and students that it was called Ross-ailithir, 'Ross of the pilgrims.' Its foundation is placed before 570, with the saint's death around 590.

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in the famous school of Loch-Eirche, and before proceeding to Ross was abbot of the Molana monastry near Youghal. . He also, like most of the contemporary saints of Ireland, received lessons of heavenly wisdom from St. Ita, the Bridget of Munster. Ross soon became so famous that crowds of students _ and religious flocked to it from all parts, so that it was distinguished by the name of Ross-ailithir — that is Ross of the pilgrims. The birth of St. Fachnan, and the future greatness of his school, were foretold by St. Kearan of Ossory, whose mother was of his family, and who himself was born in the territory of Ross, at a place still called Traigh-Ciaran (i.e., St. Kearan’s strand), in Cape Clear Island. St. Fachnan having lost his sight by some accident when he was somewhat advanced in years, it was restored through the merits of St. Mochoemog, also called Pulcherius, who was then in his mother’s womb, and whose future sanctity was foretold by St. Fachnan. It is also related of our saint that it was his daily habit to retire for silent recollection and private prayer to a secluded spot on the side of a hill, near the monastery. It happened one day he left his scroll of prayers behind him. Rain fell heavily during the nio-ht, but in the morning his prayer-book was as dry as Gideon’s fleece, for the angels had built a small chapel over it. The traces of this ancient oratory may still be seen. The precise date of the foundation of the celebrated monastery of Ross cannot be fixed with certainty. W are says it was founded about the year 590, and his opinion has been adopted by later writers. It would probably be more accurate to place the foundation of the monastery before the year 570, and the death of the saint about the year 590. The life of St. Mochoemog states that it was by the advice of St. Ita that St. I achtna proceeded from the monastery of Ross to the parents of Mochaemog, through whose merits his sight was restored to him. St Brendan, patron saint of Kerry, is also mentioned among those who visited and gave lessons of heavenly wisciom in Ross. These two facts sufficiently prove that the monastery was established before the death of St. Brendan, wine 1 took place in 577, and of St. Ita, which is marked m our

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 442

As the companion tells it

As you come through Ross Carbery in Cork, you are passing the town where St. Fachtna founded the monastery of Ross. He had studied at the famous school of Loch-Eirche and served as abbot of the Molana monastery near Youghal before coming here. Like most of the contemporary saints of Ireland, he received lessons of heavenly wisdom from St. Ita, the Bridget of Munster. The foundation is placed before the year 570, and the saint's death around 590. Ware says it was founded about 590, but it is probably more accurate to place it earlier. Ross soon became so famous that crowds of students and religious flocked to it from all parts, so that it was distinguished by the name Ross-ailithir, Ross of the pilgrims. The birth of St. Fachtna and the future greatness of his school were foretold by St. Kearan of Ossory, whose mother was of his family. Kearan himself was born in the territory of Ross, at a place still called Traigh-Ciaran, St. Kearan's strand, on Cape Clear Island. St. Fachtna lost his sight by some accident when he was advanced in years. It was restored through the merits of St. Mochoemog, also called Pulcherius, who was then in his mother's womb, and whose future sanctity had been foretold by Fachtna himself. By the advice of St. Ita, Fachtna proceeded from Ross to the parents of Mochoemog. It was his daily habit to retire for silent recollection and private prayer to a secluded spot on the side of a hill near the monastery. One day he left his scroll of prayers behind him. Rain fell heavily during the night, but in the morning his prayer-book was dry, for the angels had built a small chapel over it. The traces of this ancient oratory may still be seen. St. Brendan, patron saint of Kerry, also visited and gave lessons of heavenly wisdom in Ross.

Grey Friary of Cork founded at Shandon by MacCarthy Reagh

near Shandon · locality · Cork · 1214–1240

Dermot MacCarthy Reagh founded the Franciscan Grey Friary in Cork in 1214, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. His son Fineen continued the work, and Lord Pendergast of Newcastle rebuilt the house around 1240.

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Arohidall gives’ the following account of the Grey Friary Dermot Mac Carthy Reagh founded this monastry, a.d. 1214, for conventual Franciscans, and dedicated it to the Virgin Mary. The founder dying in the year 1219, his son, Fineen, continued the work, and the Lord Pendergast, of New¬ castle, was a great benefactor, having rebuilt this house in the year 1240, although other writers affirm that the Bourkes were the parents of the second foundation.
“A.D. 1244. — On the 15th of October, King Henry III. granted the sum of ^20 to be paid on the feast of All Saints yearly, to buy one hundred tunics for the use of the Franciscan Friars of Dublin, Waterford, Cork, Athlone, and Kilkenny.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 415

As the companion tells it

Coming up near Shandon, on the north side of Cork. Dermot MacCarthy Reagh founded a Franciscan monastery here in 1214 and dedicated it to the Virgin Mary. He died in 1219, and his son Fineen carried on the work. Lord Pendergast of Newcastle rebuilt the house in 1240, though other writers say the Bourkes were behind that second foundation. In 1244, on the 15th of October, King Henry the Third granted a yearly sum of 20 to be paid on the feast of All Saints, to buy one hundred tunics for the Franciscan friars of Dublin, Waterford, Cork, Athlone, and Kilkenny.

James Fitz Thomas murdered at Rathkeale

Rathkeale · town · Limerick · 1480

James Fitz Thomas, who succeeded his father as Earl of Desmond, was murdered at Rathkeale in county Limerick by his own servants, reportedly at the instigation of his brother John, around 1480.

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James Fitz Thomas succeeded his father as Earl of Desmond, but only enjoyed his honours five years, as he was murdered at Rathkeale, in the county Limerick, by his own servants, it is said, at the instigation of his brother John.
According to Russell, this happened in 1480. He was succeeded by his brother Maurice, the tenth earl, who is said to have been “ a scourge to the disobedient Irish.”

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 134

A history of the city and county of Cork

The stories, best first

Milo de Cogan killed by Mac Tire of Imokilly

O'Driscoll country pays tribute to Mac Carthy Reagh

Raleigh attacks David Barry at Cloyne

Schoolboys of Cork tear Queen's title from grammars

Spanish barks arrive at Dingle, Kerry

Archbishop of Cashel accused of protecting Bishop Creagh, 1593

Arrival of Lord Deputy Grey at Howth

Battle of Ormond and Desmond at Kilkenny

Cromwell melts Cork church bells for cannon

Danes settle in Cork, Iny, and Glas-Linn

Desmond's cattle raid from Derrymore wood

Desmond's rival Assembly at Callan, 1345

French fleet sighted off Crookhaven

James Fitz Gerald burns Dingle, July 1579

Kilcrea Abbey founded by Cormac Mac Carthy

Kilmallock crowd rejects Anglicised heir at Protestant church

Kinsale's Spittal or Lazar House endowment

Kinsale surrenders to Spanish forces

MacCarthys slew two FitzGerald lords at Callan, 1261

O'Neill's insult to Barrett at Castlemore, 1600

O'Neil's forces spare only Castlemaine in Geraldine devastation

Raymond le Gros besieging Limerick aids King MacCarthy

Spanish expedition lands at Smerwick Fort

St. Finbar surrenders Cill Cluana to Ruadan's pupils

Tullylease church and holy wells of St. Berechert

Wine trade at Youghal (1535)

Youghal townsmen capture French privateer near Cable Island

Advance to Kilmallock and Limerick

Catholic priests openly saying Mass in Cork city

Countess imprisoned in Castlemaine fortress

Desmond's exactions in County Cork

Donovan's banquet at Bruree and seizure of Mahoun

Massacre of twenty-four men at Lislee

Spanish ship reaches Ardea Castle with reinforcements

St. Finbar dies in Cloyne

Baileau plunders Protestant property from Cork city

Bantry Franciscan monastery history

Cannera's vision at Bantry

Cathedral of Ross damaged in 1641 war

Cork citizens restore Catholic practices in churches

Cork merchants send relief vessel to cruise off Cape Clear

Cork refuses to proclaim James I as king

Cormac Mac Airt encamped at Knocklong, Druid Mogh Ruith summoned from Valentia

Death of St. Finbar (Barra) at Cloyne

Dermot Mac Carthy buried at Kilcrea, 1536

Dominic de Burgo imprisoned and escaped from Kinsale gaol, 1648

Earl of Surrey writes from Dublin on Cork bishopric vacancy

Earls of Desmond and Kildare assemble at Kilkenny against Lord Justice

English paid MacCarthy of Muskerry for protection

Florence MacCarthy sends private messages to allies in Kinsale

French officer Prosheau captured on Bantry shore

James O'Brien introduces gas lighting in Cork, 1816

John Annyas executed at Dunboy

King James II lands at Kinsale and hears mass in Cork

Mac Maurice destroys Lixnaw and neighbouring towns

Dalcassian capture of Limerick, 968

Desmond's camp at Aghadoe attacked by Zouch

Foundation of Ross monastery by St. Fachtna

Grey Friary of Cork founded at Shandon by MacCarthy Reagh

James Fitz Thomas murdered at Rathkeale