A history of the city and county of Cork

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

1. Danes burn Inis Labrainn and Dairinis

   Durnish · townland · Limerick

   Foreigners arrived in 120 ships and plundered the country. Inis Labrainn and Dairinis were burned by them, and the Eoganachts of Loch Lein gave battle, killing 416 of the foreigners.

   Read the passage

   viz., an hundred and twenty ships, and the country was plundered and devastated by them, and Inis Labrainn and Dairinis were burned by them. And the Eoganachts of Loch Lein gave them battle, when four hundred and sixteen men of the foreigners were killed. This was the year after that in which Diman of Aradh was killed, and ten years after the death of Airtri, son of Cathal.8

   It is said that the Danish invasion was the subject of one of St. Columcille’s “ prophecies.” The Book of Leinster contains a quatrain attributed to him on the subject, which runs thus : —

   Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 56

2. Death of Edmund Mortimer at Cork Dominican convent, 1381

   Cork · city · Cork · 1381

   Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March and Ulster and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, took up his viceregal residence in the Dominican convent of Cork. He died in that house on St. Stephen's Day, 1381, and is supposed to have been buried in St. Mary's Isle.

   Read the passage

   Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March and Ulster, father of the Heir-Presumptive to the crown of England, and Lord Lieu¬ tenant of Ireland, when he came to Cork took up his vice¬ regal residence in the Dominican convent. He died in that house on St. Stephen’s day, 1381, and, as is supposed, was buried in St. Mary’s Isle.

   A friar of the Order of Preachers from Cork, and thence called Fr Joannes Corcagiensis, was Archbishop of Cologne in 1461.

   Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 417

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Cork, this city has a vice-regal death in its story. In 1381, Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March and Ulster, and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, came to Cork and took up his residence in the Dominican convent. He died in that house on St. Stephen's day, 1381. He is believed to have been buried at St. Mary's Isle. A friar of the Order of Preachers from Cork, known as Fr Joannes Corcagiensis, was Archbishop of Cologne in 1461.

3. Dermod O'Brien devastates Cork, seizes St. Finbar's shrine

   Cork · city · Cork · 1089

   St. Finbar's remains remained in Cork until 1089, when Dermod O'Brien devastated the city and carried the shrine away. This marked a major disruption of the saint's veneration at Cork.

   Read the passage

   When St. Finbar found his end approaching he stole away secretly from Cork, so that he might die at Cloyne, and here he weDt to his reward. His remains were then carried to Cork, where they were encased in a silver shrine, and where they were venerated by the faithful. Here they remained till 1089, when Dermod O’Brien devastated Cork and carried them away.

   So many holy men wished to be buried in Cork, that St. iEngus4 wrote about the year 800 : —

   Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 42

4. Desmond captures and sacks Youghal

   Youghal · town · Cork · 1579

   Desmond's forces encamped before Youghal and took the town, which was full of riches and goods. The Geraldines seized all the riches they found, except gold and silver that merchants and burgesses had already sent away by ship. The capture was sorely felt at the English court.

   Read the passage

   “They encamped before Youghal and finally took that town, which at that time was full of riches and goods. The Geraldines seized upon all the riches they found in this town, excepting such gold and silver as the merchants and burgesses had sent away in ships before the town was taken. Many a

   3. Sec accounts already given of the death of Father Archer and other?.— Ante p. 213,

   Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 224

5. Desolation of Munster from Dunquin to Cashel

   near Dunquin · parish · Kerry

   The annalist recorded the devastation of Munster during the Desmond wars, noting that the lowing of a cow or the voice of a ploughman could scarcely be heard from Dun Caoin to Cashel. The description captures the wholesale ruination of the Munster countryside.

   Read the passage

   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

   268 SUBMISSION OP COUNTESS DESMOND.

   Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 229

6. Don Juan D'Aquila commands Spanish force at Kinsale

   Kinsale · town · Cork · 1601

   Don Juan D'Aquila commanded the Spanish expedition of approximately 2,500 men that arrived at Kinsale in September 1601. The expedition had been carefully planned and was specially sanctioned by the Holy See, but a terrible disappointment awaited the Spanish troops regarding Florence MacCarthy.

   Read the passage

   Don Juan D’Aquila was in command, and had some two thousand five hundred men under him. The whole expedition had been carefully planned, and was specially sanctioned by the Holy See;4 but a terrible disappointment awaited the Spanish troops. Florence Mac Carthy, in whom they had

   4. The following letter was addressed to O’Neil. The original is given in Hib. Pac., but most incorrectly : —

   Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 249

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up now is Kinsale in Cork. In September 1601, Don Juan D'Aquila arrived here commanding a Spanish expedition of roughly 2,500 men. The whole venture was carefully planned and specially sanctioned by the Holy See, but a terrible disappointment awaited the Spanish troops regarding Florence MacCarthy.

7. Fermoy wasted by feuding barons

   Fermoy · townland · Cork · 1199–1200

   The county of Muigh Feinin, or Fermoy, was miserably wasted by the discords of Philip de Wigornia and William de Brause. The following year the castle of Knockgraffin, seized by Philip, was restored to William by royal command.

   Read the passage

   “The county of Muigh Feinin, (i.e., Fermoy,) was miserably wasted by the discords of two great men? Philip de Wigornia, and William de Brause. The follov ing vear the castle of Knockgraffin, and some others that were

   6 The Four Masters, under the year 1185, enter the son of the king of England, that is John the son of Henry II, came to Ireland with a fleet of sixty ships, to assume the government of the kingdom. He erected castles at Tipraid lachtna and Ardfinan, out of which he plundered Munster. Hammer's Chronicle, an English authority desenb , the Normans who came with him as “ great quaffers, lourdens, proud belly swains, extortion and bribery,”

   Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 112

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, the old county of Muigh Feinin, that is Fermoy, was miserably wasted by the discords of two great men, Philip de Wigornia and William de Brause. The following year the castle of Knockgraffin, seized by Philip, was restored to William by royal command.

8. First Protestant bishop of Cork sentenced to penance

   Cork · city · Cork · 1571

   Richard Dixon, the first Protestant bishop of Cork and Cloyne, was appointed by Elizabeth on the recommendation of Lord Deputy Sydney. His conduct was so scandalous that he was sentenced by royal commission to perform public penance at Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, on 7 March 1571.

   Read the passage

   The conduct of this first Protestant prelate was such that he was sentenced by royal commission to perform public penance on the 7th March, 157L ^ the Cathedral of Christs Church, Dublin, “which penance he went through in hypocrisy and pretence 'of ammcndment.”1

   The Lord Deputy Chichester was so annoyed at the con¬ stancy with which the Irish held to their faith under this cruel relentless persecution, that he declared “the air was

   Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 183

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Cork, you are near the seat of Richard Dixon, first Protestant bishop of Cork and Cloyne, appointed by Elizabeth on Lord Deputy Sydney's recommendation. His conduct was so scandalous that a royal commission sentenced him to public penance at Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, on 7 March 1571. He went through it, in the words of the record, "in hypocrisy and pretence of amendment."

9. Geraldines and De Burgos imprisoned at Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick

   During the viceroyalty of Roger Utlagh, in the minority of Edward III, both the Earl of Desmond and the Earl of Ulster refused to swear fealty to the English crown. The resulting quarrels between the Geraldines and De Burgos led Utlagh to imprison both parties at Limerick, though Desmond soon escaped.

   Read the passage

   The earl had obtained the privilege by royal charter of excluding the king’s sheriffs, and other ministers of justice, from the county. During the viceroyalty of Koger Utlagh, and in the minority of Edward III, the earl was required to swear fealty to the English crown — a requirement which he peremptorily refused to obey. The Earl of Ulster also refused to take the oath, and such quarrels arose between the Geraldines and De Burgos, that Utlagh was obliged to place both parties in durance at Limerick. Desmond, however, soon contrived to make liis escape.

   Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 124

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, the city holds an old story of two earls. The Earl of Desmond had a royal charter letting him keep the king's sheriffs out of his county. During the viceroyalty of Roger Utlagh, in the minority of Edward III, Desmond was required to swear fealty to the English crown. He refused outright. The Earl of Ulster also refused the oath. Quarrels broke out between the Geraldines and the De Burgos, and Utlagh was obliged to imprison both parties in the city. Desmond, however, soon contrived to make his escape.

10. Gerald's son fostered with O'Briens in Thomond

    Thomond · street · Dublin

    Gerald (Gearoith), Earl of Desmond, obtained a royal licence to have his son fostered and educated with the O'Briens in Thomond, reflecting his high opinion of Irish education.

    Read the passage

    Gerald, (or, as the Irish called him, Gearoith) notwithstanding his learning, or perhaps it would be more correct to say on account of it, had formed so high an opinion of Irish education, that he actually obtained a royal licence to have his son fostered and educated with the O’Briens, in Thomoncl.

    . It is quite possible, however, that his intelligent mind suggested the probable advantage of the education. But the earl was gathered to his fathers, as even earls will be: — however prudent, or however learned ; yet few have so strange a halo

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 130

    As the companion tells it

    Along here is Thomond, where Gerald, whom the Irish called Gearoith, Earl of Desmond, obtained a royal licence to have his son fostered and educated with the O'Briens. He had formed so high an opinion of Irish education, perhaps on account of his own learning, that he sought formal royal permission for it. His intelligent mind may have suggested the advantage of that education. The earl was gathered to his fathers, as even earls will be, however prudent or learned.

11. Glandore Castle (Cloghatrad-Yally) at Aghatubridmore

    near Glandore · population centre · Cork · 1215–1580

    The castle of Traigh-bhaile, near the harbour of Cuan Dor (Glandore), was erected by Barrett. It was afterwards called Cloghatrad-Yally, belonged to Donnell na Carton O'Donovan, chief of Clann-Loughlin, who died 10 May 1580, and is now called Glandore Castle, situated in Aghatubridmore townland, parish of Kilfaughnabeg.

    Read the passage

    The castle of Traigh-bhaile, near the harbour of Cuan Dor (Glandore), was erected by Barrett. This castle was afterwards called Cloghatrad - Y ally, and belonged to Donnell na Carton O’Donovan, chief of Clann-Loughlin, who died on the 10th of May, 1580, and to his son, and grandson. It was situated in the townland of Aghatubridmore, in the parish of Kilfaughnabeg, and is now generally called Glandore Castle.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 117

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Glandore, you are near a castle first built by Barrett and once called Traigh-bhaile. It later took the name Cloghatrad-Yally and belonged to Donnell na Carton O'Donovan, chief of Clann-Loughlin, who died on 10 May 1580, and after him to his son and grandson. It stood in Aghatubridmore, in the parish of Kilfaughnabeg, and is now known as Glandore Castle.

12. Hacket warns of soldiers' exactions from Castleisland

    Castleisland · town · Kerry · 1600

    Sir William Hacket wrote from Castleisland to the English court complaining that government soldiers were taking food and drink from the poor people as they moved about the country, which he feared would make the Irish weary of their loyalty.

    Read the passage

    Although Sir William Hacket wrote from Castleisland to the English court9 that “ the way these [the vice-president’s] souldiers were suffered ( to goe up and down the countrey, taking up mete and drink necessary for themselves upon the poor people, was the ready way to make the Irish weary of theyre loyaltie and of their lyves.”

    O’Neil marched south in the spring of the year 1600, “ to confirm his friendship with his allies in the war, and to wreak his vengeance on his enemies.’ He was met at Cork by James Fitzmaurice, the sugcine Earl of Desmond, and they plundered through Roche’s country and Barrymore.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 240

13. James Desmond landed at Youghal and was ambushed in Fermoy

    Youghal · town · Cork · 1535

    James Desmond, newly arrived from England to claim his inheritance, landed at Youghal on 7 August 1535. As he passed through the Viscount of Fermoy's country, he was ambushed and murdered by his kinsman Maurice Dubh, known as Maurice the Murderer. The ambush targeted James alone; his followers were allowed to escape unhurt.

    Read the passage

    James had been educated in England, whither he had been sent as a hostage. On hearing %that he was heir to the Desmond title and property, he requested permission of the “king’s majesty” to take possession of the “lands and territory es, and quietly to settle his affayres.” How little he could have anticipated his fate, when he set forth on his journey with a troop of friends and soldiers. He landed at Youghal, August 7, 1535; but as he passed “through the Lord Eoch, Viscount of Fermoy, his country,” an ambush was laid for him by his treacherous kinsman, Maurice — known, from this and other crimes, as Maurice the Murderer, or Maurice Dubh (the black). There can be no doubt that the object of this ambush was solely to murder the young earl. As soon as the bloody deed had been effected, all his followers were allowed to escape unhurt. Smith says that James was killed at Youghal, but his name is given in the Hibernica Dominican a, in the list of earls buried at Tralee, and the date 1535. This is, most probably, correct. Burgh is known to be generally accurate, and would be likely to be especially so in Kerry matters. Furthermore, Maurice was succeeded by his granduncle, John, of whom Burgh gives the following account : —

    “ 1536, John, fourteenth earl, an aged man, and a religious brother of the Convent of Tralee, when his son, Maurice Dubh , killed his grandnephew, James, the thirteenth earl, whereupon,

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 190

14. Lord Slinie of Baltimore and Lord Roche of Poole Castle

    Baltimore · town · Cork

    A contemporary letter lists Lord Slinie of Baltimore as having £300 sterling per annum, and Lord Roche of Poole Castle as having £1,000 per annum besides havens and creeks. These were among the remaining Anglo-Norman lords seeking English assistance.

    Read the passage

    4. The ancient Anglo-Norman nobility at this time are said to be — the Lord Marquis Carew, whose 'yearly revenue was £ 2,200 per annum ; the Lord Barnwell, of Berehaven. who had £1,600 per annum ; the Lord Uggan, of the Great Castle, £1,1,00 per annum ; the lord Batram, of Emforle, his revenue ,£1,300; Lord Courcey, of Kilbritton, his revenue .£1,500 sterling ; the Lord Mandeville, of Barnchelly, £1,200 sterling ; the Lord Arundel, of the Strand, £1,500 per annum ; the Lord Baron, of the Guard, £1,100 ; the Lord Slinie, of Baltimore, £Soo sterling per annum ; the Lord Roche, of Poole Castle, his revenue, besides havens and creeks, (which the letter takes notice all the other lords also had), £1,000 per annum.

    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.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 142

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Baltimore in Cork, you are in the territory of two Anglo-Norman lords a letter from the 1400s records. The letter lists the ancient Anglo-Norman nobility and what each lord had. Lord Slinie of Baltimore had 300 pounds sterling per annum. Lord Roche, of Poole Castle, had 1,000 pounds per annum, besides havens and creeks, which the letter says all the other lords also had. Others named in the same letter include the Lord Marquis Carew with 2,200 pounds, Lord Barnwell of Berehaven with 1,600, Lord Courcey of Kilbritton with 1,500, and Lord Arundel of the Strand with 1,500. The letter says the king had all Barry Oge's estate by forfeiture, worth 1,800 pounds. It asks that those lords and the Irish be bound over, on pain of life and goods, not to make war on each other, by which the country was brought to destruction. The Irish, formerly driven to the mountains of Glancrough, had now returned and become stronger than the English. Of the English, only the lords Roche, Courcey, and Barry then remained. The letter requests that proper persons be sent over to command the English and quiet the country. Sir Richard Cox says this letter was written in Henry the Sixth's time, 1449. But Archbishop Usher, in a letter to Lord Courcey dated at Drogheda, December 12, 1626, says it was written in Henry the Fourth's time. The Irish were then so powerful in the county of Cork that the English paid forty pounds a year to Mac Carthy of Muskery for his protection.

15. Mac Carthy king of Cork submits to Henry II

    Cork · city · Cork · 1170

    Dermod Mac Carthy, king of Desmond (of which Cork formed a considerable portion), was one of the first Irish chiefs to submit to Henry II. He had previously won a victory in 1170 over English knights protecting Waterford. Henry II then granted the kingdom of Cork to Robert Fitzstephen and Milo de Colgan, dispossessing Mac Carthy.

    Read the passage

    Dermod Mac Carthy — king of Desmond, of which Cork then formed a considerable portion — was one of the first to submit to Henry II. In the year 1170 he gained a victory over the English knights, who were left to protect Port Lairge (Water¬ ford). The Danes had by this time established themselves well in Cork city, and we find in the grant of Cork, made by Henry II., that they had also some adjacent land. Dermod Mac Carthy, probably, soon saw the hopelessness of resistance — might was stronger than right. Probably he heard that Henry only intended a polite conquest, such as Mr. Froude has imagined ; that he would be content with a formal submission, and would return to his own land contented with the name of king.

    Dermod was undeceived somewhat rudely. Henry made a grant of the kingdom of Cork to his faithful followers, Robert Fitz Gerald and Miles de Colgan. The grant runs thus

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 107

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up on Cork now. In 1170, Dermod Mac Carthy was king of Desmond, and Cork formed a considerable portion of his kingdom. He was one of the first Irish chiefs to submit to Henry II. That same year he had gained a victory over English knights left to protect Waterford. The Danes had by this time established themselves well in Cork city, and Henry's grant of Cork shows they also held some adjacent land. Mac Carthy probably saw the hopelessness of resistance. Might was stronger than right. He may have heard that Henry intended only a polite conquest, content with a formal submission, and would return to his own land satisfied with the name of king. Dermod was undeceived somewhat rudely. Henry granted the entire kingdom of Cork to his faithful followers, Robert Fitz Gerald and Miles de Colgan.

16. Mochuda founds monastery on Spike Island

    Spike Island · townland · Cork

    King Cathel of Munster, cured of blindness, deafness, and dumbness by St. Mochuda, granted him lands including Spike Island (called Pick Island). Mochuda commenced building a monastery there and remained a full year; the island is described as a most holy place with pious people residing perpetually.

    Read the passage

    “ Mochuda came where the king was, and the king and his friends implored Mochuda to relieve his distress. Mochuda made prayers to God for him, and put the sign of the holy cross on his eyes, and ears, and mouth, and he was cured of all his diseases and troubles, and the king, Cathel, gave extensive lands to God, and to Mochuda for ever, namely, Cathel Island, and Ross Beg and Ross More, and Pick Island (now Spike Island), and Mochuda sent holy brethren to build a church in Ross Beg in honour of God, and Mochuda himself commenced building a monastery in Pick Island, and he remained there a full year.”9

    9. The Life says further : — “ Mochuda then placed three of his disciples above mentioned, namely, the three sons of Nascann, i.e., Bishop Caban, and Straphan, the priest, and Laisren, the saint, in those churches. And it was the holy Bishop of Ardomain that gave holy orders to these three in Mochuda’s presence ; and it was he that was appointed to preserve them in the path of righteousness ; and he left two score more of his brethren in his own stead in the monastery of Pick Island. Pick Island is a most holy place, and most pious people reside in it perpetually.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 91

17. Monastery and church of St. Michael founded on Dursey Island

    near Dursey Island · townland · Cork · 1519–1602

    A Spanish bishop named Bonaventura founded a monastery on the small island of Dursey, at the head of the peninsula between Bantry and Kenmare, with an adjoining church dedicated to St. Michael. The monastery and church were levelled to the ground in 1602 during the persecution under Elizabeth.

    Read the passage

    Before the close of 1517 Dr. O’Herlihy was duly proclaimed in consistory Bishop of Ross. He governed the See, however, for a little more than one year, and had for his successor a Spaniard named Bonaventura, of whom it is recorded that he founded a monastery in the small island of Dursey, which lies at the head of the peninsula between Bantry and Kenmare.5 This monastery, and its adjoining church of St. Michael, shared the fate of most of the Catholic institutions during the persecution of Elizabeth, and in 1602 was levelled to the ground.

    Of the immediately succeeding bishops we know little more

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 163

18. Murder of Conner Kennedy and tenants at Garanne

    Garrane · townland · Cork

    Conner Kennedy, who had protection for himself and his tenants to save their harvest, was murdered along with his people by the garrison of Ross at Garanne near Ross while they were reaping their corn.

    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Garrane, Conner Kennedy had protection for himself and his tenants to save their harvest. He and his tenants were reaping their corn near Ross, when the garrison of Ross murdered them. They were killed doing the very work the protection was meant to allow. This was one massacre among many recorded across Cork in those years. The same book notes that some were inhumanly murdered, and the hearts of some of them pulled out and put into their mouths, and many other massacres were committed upon women and children. At Lislee, 24 men in protection were murdered by Colonel Mynn's soldiers. At Bellanere, 8 poor labourers were killed by Captain Bridge's men whilst in protection, and engaged in saving the harvest of the English. At Clogheiulty in 1642, about 238 persons were murdered, of which 17 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. In 1641 the garrison of Bandon Bridge tied 88 Irishmen of that town back to back, and threw them off 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 safe return, but being driven by a storm into Dungarvan, he and his men were hanged by direction of the commander-in-chief there, notwithstanding that he produced the said pass.

19. Murder of Mahoun in the Macroom Mountains

    Macroom · town · Cork

    Mahoun was treacherously murdered in the County Cork. The site of the murder is identified as being in the Macroom Mountains.

    Read the passage

    Doubtful conversion of the Danes to Christianity— Sketch of the general state of Ireland at this period— Brian Boroimhe and his brother Mahoun ( Mathgamhain)— Brian will have nothing to do with the “ Grim Black Gentiles”— The Eoghanists ally themselves with the Danes— Quarrels between the Eoghanists and Datcassians — The result— The treacherous murder of Mahoun in the County Cork — Different accounts of this event — He places him¬ self under the protection of the Bishop of Cork, who is unable to avert the crime — The Bishop “maledicts” all who are concerned Desecration of the “ Gospel of St. Barri ” — -The site of the murder in the Macroom Mountains — The conspiracy by Ivor, the Danish King of Limerick, Donovan, and Molloy — The Bishop remains at Raithen Mor , near Fermoy — One site of the murder at Kilflyn, another shown in the Mushera Mountains — Molloy is cursed for his treachery — Brian Boroimhe’s vengeance — Elegy on Mahoun’s death, supposed to have been spoken by him — Brian revenges his brothers murder — The battle of Glen Mama , and its results — The subjugation of the Danes — -What led to the battle of Clontarf — Brian's marriage with Gormley — Her character — A scene at the palace of Kincora — The war begins in earnest — The battle of Clontarf — The places of the Cork men — Raids on Cork after this battle.

    CHAP. YI. — Early Ecclesiastical Foundations... . 85

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 5

20. Ormond assembles forces at Cork and marches on Smerwick

    Cork · city · Cork · 1580

    In October 1580, the Earl of Ormond assembled 1,500 men at Cork and marched towards Slieve Tougher, receiving intelligence that Desmond and others with foreign troops were encamped near Tralee. The force then pursued the retreating rebels toward Smerwick, where Italian troops had fortified a position.

    Read the passage

    “ On the second day of last month (October), having assembled in company together at Cork, I marched from thence towards Slieve Tougher, and arriving on the same, I had intelligence of ‘Desmond,’ ‘Baltinglass,’ ‘John of Desmond,’

    ‘ Piers Grace,’ with five hundred of foreign enemy, were en¬ camped on a very strong ground called Bongounder, six miles from Tralee, where they premised to fight, and marching towards them, as they saw me come near, they fled; whereupon I, with a few of my horsemen and some shot, followed them till they came to the wood called Ivillvallylahie (Keelballylahiffe) , and at the entering into that wood some of them were slain and hurt with our shot. The night coming on, and my footmen wearied with their travayle all the day long, I camped near them, meaning to be doinge earlie the next day with them ; and understanding by my spyals (spies) that Baltin¬ glass and John of Desmond, with the greater part of the traitors, fled away that night towards Smerwicke, where the Italians fortified, I marched after them, and by the way took some of the Spaniards and Italians ; and when I came thither, Baltinglass and John of Desmond, with their companies, were departed thens by night, and carried the Pope’s nuncio along

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 218

21. Papal brief to Bishop of Cork for Owen Mac Egan

    Cork · city · Cork · 1595–1599

    On 31 October 1595, a papal brief was addressed to Bishop Dermot of Cork ('Dermitio Episcopo Corcagiensi'), commissioning him to grant ecclesiastical livings to Owen Mac Egan, who later became Vicar Apostolic of Ross. The diocese of Cork was at this time laid waste by fire and sword amid the struggle of Irish chieftains against Elizabethan forces.

    Read the passage

    On the 31st of October, 1595, a brief was addressed to “ Dermitio Episcopo Corcagiensi,” commissioning him to grant some ecclesiastical livings to Owen Mac Egan, who a few years later became Vicar Apostolic of Eoss. In 1599 Dr. Creagh was visited by the Franciscan Father Mooney, who in his History of the Order, commemorating this visit, describes the bishop as vir valde prudens et in rebus agendis versatus.” This must have been a period of harrowing anxiety for the bishop. His diocese was laid waste by fire and sword, the Irish chieftains driven to arms by the iniquitous policy of the agents of Elizabeth, having made the southern districts of Ireland the theatre of their struggle. Dr. Creagh shared the perils of their camp, ministering to them the comforts of

    religion.8

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 182

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, this is the city where a papal brief arrived on the 31st of October 1595, addressed to Bishop Dermot of Cork, commissioning him to grant ecclesiastical livings to Owen Mac Egan, who a few years later became Vicar Apostolic of Ross. In 1599 the bishop was visited by the Franciscan Father Mooney, who in his History of the Order described him as a man very prudent and experienced in conducting affairs. These were years of harrowing anxiety for the bishop. His diocese was laid waste by fire and sword. The Irish chieftains, driven to arms by the policy of the agents of Elizabeth, had made the southern districts of Ireland the theatre of their struggle. Dr Creagh shared the perils of their camp, ministering to them the comforts of religion.

22. Soldiers executed at Kilcullen for pillaging

    Kilcullen · town · Kildare · 1690

    During the Williamite campaign, strict orders were given to seize offending soldiers who pillaged. Several were taken and executed at Kilcullen, including a quarter-master and a waggon-master of the Dutch Dragoons.

    Read the passage

    7. William knew how to keep his troops in order. He could not put down Swearing, though Dean Davis did his best to preach it down, but he could and did put down robbery as far as possible, and it was not very easy with a set of “rapacious” adventurers. Davis says : — “ Our men were very rapacious. Strict orders were given to seize offenders, and several were taken and executed at Kilcullen, and among them a quarter-master and a wagh-master of the Dutch Dragoons. July 13 being Sunday, our whole army halted, and by yesterday’s pillage were full of beef and mutton. I preached in the field against swearing, on James v., 17, and while I was in the sermon seven prisoners were led along our line in order to their execution, and among them one of our regiment.

    8. The fort, i. e., the Elizabeth fort, in Barrack street. This fort, which Lord Macaulay, says “lies in ruins,” is in good preservation to the present day.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 303

23. Spanish garrison departs to Baltimore to sail for Spain

    Baltimore · town · Cork · 1602

    After O'Sullivan's men retook Dunboy Castle, the Spanish commander Francesco offered no resistance and was allowed to withdraw. The Spaniards departed and went to Baltimore to ship for Spain, except a few who remained to act as gunners.

    Read the passage

    At break of day Father Archer went to the Spanish com¬ mander and asked him to come to O’Sullivan’s apartment. Here he was informed that the castle was in possession of its rightful owners, that a large force was outside, but that he and his men would be allowed to withdraw if they made no resistance. It was a curious affair this taking of the castle from -the very men who had come to defend it. Francesco made no resistance. The Spaniards departed, and went to Baltimore to ship for Spain, except a few who remained to act as gunners.

    Don Juan was in Cork when O’Sullivan took possession of Dunboy, and he expressed much indignation thereat. He had ndeed become so attached to his English friends that he was willing to set out at once and regain it for them ; but though they were willing to profit by his treachery, they had little faith in his honour ; and being very desirous “ to see his heels

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming into Baltimore in Cork. In 1602, after O'Sullivan's men retook Dunboy Castle from the Spaniards who had come to defend it, the Spanish commander Francesco offered no resistance. Father Archer went to him at break of day and asked him to come to O'Sullivan's apartment. There he was told the castle was in possession of its rightful owners, that a large force was outside, but that he and his men would be allowed to withdraw if they made no resistance. Francesco made no resistance. The Spaniards departed, and went to Baltimore to ship for Spain, except a few who remained to act as gunners. Don Juan was in Cork when O'Sullivan took possession of Dunboy, and he expressed much indignation thereat. He had become so attached to his English friends that he was willing to set out at once and regain it for them; but though they were willing to profit by his treachery, they had little faith in his honour.

24. St. Finbar founds Cork

    Cork · city · Cork

    The city of Cork traces its foundation to an early Christian monk, a fact that previous historians had largely omitted due to ignorance or prejudice.

    Read the passage

    Cork owes its foundation to an early Christian monk,2 and yet, through ignorance or prejudice, former historians of Cork have omitted this fact, as they have also omitted all but the most cursory reference to the early history of their own country.

    St. Patrick landed in Ireland in the early part of the fifth century. He was soon surrounded by ardent and devoted converts, whose one desire was to lead their fellow country¬ men to the one Faith ; and this being rapidly accomplished, each little colony of missionaries soon formed the nucleus of a religious establishment, where charity to the poor, devotional practices, and the increase of learning, were their daily occu¬ pation. The light of St. Patrick’s Easter fire at Slane had extinguished the light of pagan fires. He passed from end to

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 35

25. Submerged bogs at Rosscarbery and Tralong Bay

    Ross Carbery · town · Cork

    Peat is cut from submerged bogs near Rosscarbery and at Tralong Bay two miles westward, as well as on the west side of Courtmacsherry Bay. These submerged bogs provide direct proof that the land once stood higher than its present level after the post-glacial submergence.

    Read the passage

    The land rose after the submergence to a higher level than that at which it stands at present (this, though probably not indispensable, was one of the conditions which conspired to favour the production of the corry glaciers) ; of this we have direct proof in the submerged bogs to be found off shore in Cork and in many other parts of Ireland. Peat is cut from such bogs near Rosscarbery, and at Tralong Bay, two miles westward thereof, also on the west side of Courtmacsherry Bay. On the east side of Clonakilty Bay the surface of the bog is but little above the sea, but it has been probed to the depth of fifty feet. Such bogs, of course, could only be formed on ground standing above the sea. Another reason for in¬ ferring the greater elevation of the land, at that time, is this, that Ireland must have been united to England and the Con¬ tinent after the general glaciation and subsequent deep sub¬ mergence. In no other way than this can we account for the immigration of the greater part of the land animals into Ireland, some of which animals are now extinct ; such as the Arctic Mammoth or Woolly Elephant ( Elephas primigenius ), whose remains have been found in a cave near Dungarvan, a short way out of this county, in Waterford, and the Irish Elk, as it is sometimes called ( Megaceros H ibernicus ), which was related to the reindeer, and would, probably, prefer a climate colder than that of Ireland is now, and whose remains have bc'en found in this county a little to the S.W. of Charleville, in the townland of Ratkmealey, near Cooliney. We may mention here the Polar bear ( Ursus Maritimus ), though nut extinct, another Arctic animal, whose bones have been found in Lough Gur, Co. Limerick, outside the northern boundary of this county.

    We have no record of stone weapons, etc., of human manu¬ facture having been found, as yet, in the drift of this district.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 368

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ross Carbery in west Cork, the coast holds traces of older ground. Submerged bogs lie offshore, and peat is cut from them near here, at Tralong Bay two miles west, and on the west side of Courtmacsherry Bay. On the east side of Clonakilty Bay a bog sits barely above the sea but has been probed down fifty feet. Such bogs could only form on ground above the sea, so they are direct proof the land once stood higher than it does now. The land rose after a submergence to a level above the present, then sank again. The same greater elevation helps explain how Ireland came to be joined to England and the Continent after the general glaciation and a deep submergence. Only that link accounts for land animals migrating into Ireland, some now extinct. Among them was the Arctic mammoth, the woolly elephant, whose remains turned up in a cave near Dungarvan, just over the county boundary in Waterford. There was the Irish elk, related to the reindeer and likely preferring a colder climate, whose bones were found southwest of Charleville, in the townland of Rathmealey near Cooliney. The polar bear, though not extinct, is another Arctic animal whose bones were found at Lough Gur in Limerick, outside the county's northern boundary. No record exists of stone weapons of human manufacture having been found in the drift of this district.

26. The English Pale between Dublin, Trim, and Dundalk

    Dublin · city · Dublin

    By the time of Henry VIII, the only area obedient to the king's laws was the small English Pale between Dublin, Trim, and Dundalk, encompassing no more than thirty miles. Freeholders and English inhabitants in the lands of the Earls of Desmond, Ormond, and Kildare had been expelled and replaced by Irishmen.

    Read the passage

    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

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Dublin, you are in what was once the heart of a very small territory. By the time of Henry the Eighth, the only land still obedient to the king's laws was the little English Pale between Dublin, Trim, and Dundalk. It compassed no more than thirty miles. Everything beyond it had been lost. The Geraldines of Munster and Leinster, and the Butlers, had not duly obeyed the king's laws. They continually allied themselves with Irishmen and used coyne and livery. Because of this, all the freeholders and English inhabitants in the countries of the Earls of Desmond, Ormond, and Kildare were completely expelled, and Irishmen inhabited their stead. This followed a battle, by concord of the Irishmen, 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.

27. Waterford officials refuse oath of supremacy, 1596

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1596

    A 1596 letter states that the Mayor and Sheriffs of Waterford refused to attend church or take the oath of supremacy, and describes the city as a sink of superstition and idolatry.

    Read the passage

    “ In Waterford, the Mayor and Sheriffs of the citie come not to church, neyther will they take the oath of supremacy, and in this citie of Corck the bayiiffs refuse the oath, neyther come they to the church, and I questioning with one of the last year’s baylifs named Richard Rawley, for whom I sent to know the cause why he would not come to the church, nor obey any of her Majesty’s ecclesiastical lawes, he made me answer that he was sworn to the league, that he should never come to the church nor obey any of her Majesty’s ecclesias¬ tical lawes touching the same.”

    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 :

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 168

28. James Desmond prefers the wilds of Kerry to London

    Kerry · county · Kerry

    James Desmond, secretly corresponding with Charles V of Spain, was summoned to London when his intrigues were discovered. He preferred remaining in the wilds of Kerry with Kerry kernes as his guardians rather than risk the journey.

    Read the passage

    James Desmond imperilled his property and title, by a secret correspondence with Charles Y. of Spain, and was eventually summoned to London when his intrigues were discovered. But the earl had family experience of such invitations, and preferred the wilds of Kerry a sa residence, and Kerry kernes as his guardians. The Earl of Kildare, then viceroy, was ordered to arrest him ; but the command was more easily issued than fulfilled. The earl was either unwilling or unable to obey the royal mandate ; and Cardinal Wolsey, who is credited by the Geraldine writers with a strong prejudice against that family, worked so industriously on the king against the viceroy that he was sent for to defend his conduct. The result was the false rumour of the earl’s death, and the famous but fatal insurrection of Silkin Thomas.

    James Fitz Maurice died in 1529, and was succeeded by Thomas Maol, or “ The Bald,” uncle of Maurice, and son of

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 135

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Kerry, it is worth knowing that this county once sheltered a man who chose its wilds over London. James Desmond had been carrying on a secret correspondence with Charles V of Spain, and when his intrigues were discovered, he was summoned to London. But the earl had family experience of such invitations. He preferred the wilds of Kerry as a residence, and Kerry kernes as his guardians. The Earl of Kildare, then viceroy, was ordered to arrest him, but the command was more easily issued than fulfilled. The earl was either unwilling or unable to obey the royal mandate. Cardinal Wolsey, credited by the Geraldine writers with a strong prejudice against that family, worked industriously on the king against the viceroy until he was sent for to defend his conduct. The result was a false rumour of the earl's death, and the famous but fatal insurrection of Silkin Thomas.

29. Attack on Bandon repulsed with slaughter

    Bandon · town · Cork · 1642

    The Irish attacked Bandon under Mac Carthy Reagh on 18 July 1642 and were repulsed with great slaughter. The prisoners taken were executed with what the author calls the usual barbarity of the period.

    Read the passage

    The Lord Justice had taken the rebel side also, and no quarter was the word, even before Cromwell came. The Irish attacked Bandon, under Mac Carthy Reagh, on the 1 8th July, 1642, and were repulsed with great slaughter, and the prisoners executed with the usual barbarity. About the same time Sir Charles Vavasor arrived in Youghal with a thousand men, and Cork was invaded by Lord Muskery. His camp was at Rochfordstown, but his troops were soon repulsed with great loss.

    The Parliamentary army were in such need of money, that they seized ^4,000, which Sir Robert Tynte was prudently despatching to England. He was, however, well recompensed afterwards. Lord Cork complained, pathetically, that whereas his income once had been fifty pounds a day, he had not now fifty pence a week.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 291

30. Dalcassians march into Co. Kerry against Eoghanists

    Kerry · county · Kerry

    After a tribal conference voted for war, the Dalcassians marched into the country of the Eoghanists, the present Co. Kerry, who joined their standard against the Danes.

    Read the passage

    The result was a conference of the tribe, who voted for war, and marched into the country of the Eoghanists (the present co. Kerry), who at once joined the standard of the Dalcassians. The Danes suffered severely in Munster. This aroused the Limerick Danes ; and their chieftain, Ivor, attacked the terri¬ tory of Dal-Cais, an exploit in which he was joined, to their eternal shame, by several native princes and tribes, amongst whom were Maolmuadh (Molloy), son of Braun, King of Desmond, and Donabhan (Donovan), son of Cathal, King of Ui Cairbhri. The result was a fierce battle at Sulcoit, near Tipperary, wherein the Danes were gloriously defeated. The action was commenced by the Northmen. It continued from sunrise till mid-day, and terminated in the rout of the

    4. Chess. — Flann Sionna, Monarch of Ireland, had encamped on this plain, and ostentatiously commenced a game of chess as a -jnark of contempt for the chieftains whose country he had invaded. His folly met its just punishment, for he was ignominiously defeated. See Wars of the Gaedhil, p. 1 13, note.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 67

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming into County Kerry, the old country of the Eoghanists. A tribal conference voted for war, and the Dalcassians marched in here. The Eoghanists joined the Dalcassian standard at once, and together they went after the Danes, who suffered severely across Munster. That success roused the Danes of Limerick. Their chieftain, Ivor, attacked the territory of Dal-Cais, and several native princes joined him, including Maolmuadh, son of Braun, King of Desmond, and Donabhan, son of Cathal, King of Ui Cairbhri. It ended in a fierce battle at Sulcoit, near Tipperary. The Northmen started the fight, it ran from sunrise till mid-day, and the Danes were defeated. There is also a note about Flann Sionna, Monarch of Ireland, who encamped on a plain and ostentatiously commenced a game of chess as a mark of contempt for the chieftains whose country he had invaded. His folly met its just punishment, for he was ignominiously defeated.

31. Death of St. Finbar at Cloyne

    Cloyne · town · Cork

    St. Finbar secretly left Cork so that he might die at Cloyne, where he went to his reward. His remains were then carried back to Cork and encased in a silver shrine, venerated by the faithful.

    Read the passage

    When St. Finbar found his end approaching he stole away secretly from Cork, so that he might die at Cloyne, and here he weDt to his reward. His remains were then carried to Cork, where they were encased in a silver shrine, and where they were venerated by the faithful. Here they remained till 1089, when Dermod O’Brien devastated Cork and carried them away.

    So many holy men wished to be buried in Cork, that St. iEngus4 wrote about the year 800 : —

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 42

32. Murder of Garrett, Earl of Desmond, near island of Kerry

    Kerry · county · Kerry

    According to Smith, Garrett, Earl of Desmond, went out from his camp near the island of Kerry and was privately murdered, never being heard of again. Other authorities including Russell and the Four Masters record his death as natural.

    Read the passage

    of romance about their last moments. Smith says that “ he went out of his camp near the island of Kerry, and was privately murdered, having never been heard of more. ’ But where he obtained his information we have not been able to ascertain. Russell,6 a most important authority on all Geraldine questions, says simply, that “ being very old, he paid nature its inevitable debt,” which certainly does not even remotely suggest that he paid that debt in a compulsory fashion. The “ Four Masters” record his demise thus : —

    “ Garrell, Earl of Desmond, a cheerful and courteous man, who excelled all the English, and' many of the Irish, in the knowledge of the Irish language, poetry, and history, and of other learning, died after the victory of penance.”

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 131

    As the companion tells it

    County Kerry, and the road you're passing through holds a story about Garrett, Earl of Desmond. Smith says he went out of his camp near the island of Kerry, and was privately murdered, having never been heard of more. Where Smith got that information nobody has been able to ascertain. Russell, called a most important authority on all Geraldine questions, says simply that being very old, he paid nature its inevitable debt, which does not suggest he paid that debt in a compulsory fashion. The Four Masters record his death differently. They write that Garrell, Earl of Desmond, a cheerful and courteous man, who excelled all the English, and many of the Irish, in the knowledge of the Irish language, poetry, and history, and of other learning, died after the victory of penance.

33. Alternative murder sites at Kilflyn and Mushera Mountains

    Mushera · townland · Cork

    Different traditions point to Kilflyn and the Mushera Mountains as alternative sites for the murder of Mahoun. The Bishop remained at Raithen Mor near Fermoy when he could not prevent the crime.

    Read the passage

    Doubtful conversion of the Danes to Christianity — Sketch of the general state of Ireland at this period — Brian Boroimhe and his brother Mahoun ( Mathgamham) Brian will have nothing to do with the “Grim Black Gentiles”— The Eoghanists ally themselves with the Danes — Quarrels between the Eoghanists and the Dalcassians The result The treacherous murder of Mahoun in the Co. Cork — Different accounts of this event He places himself under the protection of the Bishop of Cork, who is unable to avert the crime— The Bishop “ maledicts ” all who were concerned— Desecration of the “Gospel of St. Barri” — The site of the murder in the Macroom Mountains The conspiracy by Ivor, the Danish King of Limerick, Donovan, and Molloy The Bishop remains at R ait hen Mor , near Fermoy— One site of the murder at Kilflyn, another shown in the Mushera Mountains— Molloy is cursed for his treachery Brian Boroimhe s vengeance — Elegy on Mahoun’s death, supposed to have been spoken by him Brian revenges his brother’s murder — The battle of Glen-Mama , and its results The sub¬ jugation of the Danes — What led to the battle of Clontarf Brian s marriage with Gormley — Her character — A scene at the palace of Kincora — The war begins in earnest — The battle of Clontarf — The places of the Cork men — Raids on Cork after this battle.

    ^ he year 948 has been assigned as the date of the conversion of the Danes to Christianity ; but if conversion is to be tested by deeds, the less said on the subject the better. Plundering and .burning went on as usual, while the unhappy divisions of the Irish prevented any effectual resistance to the oppressor.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 65

34. Artillery escorted to Bandon during French scare

    Bandon · town · Cork · 1796

    During the December 1796 French invasion alarm, a detachment of cavalry from the Cork Legion and Cork Volunteers escorted artillery to Bandon as part of the military mobilisation across Munster.

    Read the passage

    “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

35. Barrett's Castle history: Edward III to James II

    near Ballincollig · town · Cork · 1310–1690

    Barrett's Castle near Ballincollig is said to have been built in the reign of Edward III. In May 1642 it was taken by the Lord President's forces, and during the war of the Revolution it was garrisoned for James II.

    Read the passage

    and more inconvenient. Of the enclosing walls of the bawn, that to the south was defended by a tower in the eentre, and another at the south-east angle ; the latter being vaulted, and lit by loops. A portion of the north wall is perforated by a range of four windows of irregular dimensions, two are double headed lancets, one a single lancet, and a fourth an oblongloop. The buildings which these lit have disappeared. The castle is said to have been built in the reign of Edward III. In 1612 Andrew Barrett was one of the county representatives in parliament. In May, 1642, this castle was taken by the Lord President’s forces probably about the same time that Barrett’s other castle of Carrigrohan was taken. In the war of the Revolution it was garrisoned for James II.

    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

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 397

36. Best-bred cattle near Cork, Mallow, Fermoy and Bandon

    Mallow · town · Cork

    While poor mountainous parts bordering Kerry had small light cattle, the good pastures around Cork, Mallow, Fermoy and Bandon contained some of the best-bred animals in Ireland. Wealthy farmers and country gentlemen had been importing the best cattle from England and Scotland for some fifty years.

    Read the passage

    The County of Cork is in extent the largest in Ireland, con¬ sisting of 1 ,849,683 acres, and from the absence of manufactures, the people of all classes are more or less engaged in agricultural pursuits. The wealth of the county consists in the large flocks of sheep and herds of cattle, the staple produce is butter. Tne Cork brand on a butter firkin, being a sure guarantee in every market in the world as to quality. Indeed the County of Cork is peculiarly adapted for dairy farming, being intersected by many beautiful rivers. The Blackwrater, Bride, Lee, Bandon river, besides many smaller streams, all having rich pasture lands by their banks. These natural advantages account for the number of cows in the county, and the quality of the butter. At this moment there are 181,262 milking cows kept for the production of butter. There are no particular breeds of cattle indigenous to the county of Cork. On the poor mountainous parts of the county that border the county Kerry, the breed of cattle is much the same as in the county of Kerry — small, light cows, giving plenty of milk, considering the size of the animals ; but in the good pastures in the neighbourhood of Cork, Mallow, Fermoy, Bandon, some of the best bred animals in Ireland are to be found ; and, indeed, the yearly improve¬ ment in the, appearance of the cattle all over the country is something wonderful. There are a large number of country gentlemen, and wealthy farmers, who take a deep interest in agriculture, spread over the country, who spare no trouble or expense in importing from England and Scotland the best cattle that money can procure. This has been going on for the last fifty years. About that; time large Dutch cows were thought most suitable, as they are heavy milkers, the people

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 387

37. Birth of St. Molagga near Fermoy

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    St. Molagga's parents lived at Clogh-lia-Money near Fermoy. Saints Cummin Fota and Comdham predicted they would have a son who would devote himself to literature. The saint was born and baptized by St. Cummin.

    Read the passage

    Before passing to secular history, we must give some brief account of another saint — Si. Molagga , or “ Laicin,” patron of Tegh -Mollagga. His parents lived at a place called Clock- Lia-thm mine* in the neighbourhood of Fermoy. His father, Dubkligh, was descended from the famous druid, Maigh ruith. But his parents were good Christians, who devoted their lives to laborious occupations, and accepted with resignation the will of God, which deprived them of offspring. One day, as they were sowing flax seed !£ on the south side of the high way,” St. Cummin Fota and St. Comdham passed by, with a number of priests. The saint enquired of the aged couple if they had any children, and on their replying that they had not, he predicted that they should yet have a son, “ who would be a glorious and shining light in his generation ; and it was further added, that he should devote himself to litera¬ ture in Inlach-mhin in And mure. The holy couple, it is said, appeared to renew their youth from this moment, and in seven months’ time the saint was Dorn.9

    The child was baptized by St. Cummin, and it is said that

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 47

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is where St. Molagga was born. He was also called Laicin, and he became patron of Tegh-Mollagga. His parents lived at a place called Clogh-lia-Money near Fermoy. His father, Dubkligh, was descended from the famous druid Maighruith. His parents were good Christians who devoted themselves to labour and accepted with resignation that they had no children. One day, as they were sowing flax seed, St. Cummin Fota and St. Comdham passed by with a number of priests. The saint asked the aged couple if they had any children, and on their replying that they had not, he predicted that they should yet have a son, who would be "a glorious and shining light in his generation," and that he should devote himself to literature. The holy couple are said to have renewed their youth from that moment, and in seven months' time the saint was born. The child was baptized by St. Cummin.

38. Bishop Skiddy retires to Youghal

    Youghal · town · Cork · 1597

    In 1597, Bishop Roger Skiddy, unwilling to support the religious changes propagated by the government, resigned the bishopric of Cork and Cloyne and retired to Youghal.

    Read the passage

    was not consecrated, neither did he receive possession of the temporalities during the life-time of Queen Mary, although her death did not take place till the 17th of November, 1558. For some time after the accession of Queen Elizabeth, no mention was made of the See of Cork and Cloyne, till on 31st of July, 1562, her Majesty wrote to the Earl of Sussex and the Lord Chancellor, “ directing the admission of Eoger Skiddy to the bishopricks of Cork and Cloyne, to which he had been previously elected accordingly, on the 29th of October, 1562, this dignitary was admitted to possession of the temporalities, and a mandate was issued for his consecration, bearing the same date. In his writ of restitution to the temporalities was inserted a retrospective clause, that he should have possession of them from the time of his first advancement by Queen Mary. Whether Dr. Skiddy was actually consecrated or not, no record has been preserved to us, and his consecration in virtue of such a royal mandate would be wholly uncanonical and schismatical. No doubt, however, seems to be entertained of his orthodoxy and devotedness to the Catholic faith : and in 1 59 7> unwilling to lend his name to the religious novelties which the govern¬ ment of the day wished to propagate in the kingdom, he resigned the bishoprick and retired to Youghal.

    Nicholas Landes was appointed bishop of this see in consis¬ tory of 27th of February, 1 56®. 4

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 177

39. Carrig-a-Crump stalactite caves near Cloyne

    Carrigacrump · townland · Cork

    Great stalactite caves at Carrig-a-Crump, about two miles from Cloyne, had been penetrated to a distance of one mile but never thoroughly explored. They were believed by locals to be connected underground with the caves at Cloyne.

    Read the passage

    Church, and the security of it must have received no small addition from the circumstance of a cave, which is on the most elevated part of it, extending in various branches underground to a great distance. The cave is now in the field, called the Rock Meadow, forming part of the bishop’s demesne, a little east of his garden wall, and they having been long neglected, and the drains from it choked up, it is generally full of water in winter. Yet there is a large arched passage, running some hundred yards, leading to another mouth in the shrubbery north of it. A third, but smaller opening, is also visible in the high ground above the pond, a fourth near the road to the Commons, and these, or similar entrances, gave the name to the whole of this land of the field of the caves.” Elsewhere he writes : — “ The rock shrubbery ends at the mouth of a cave of unknown length and depth, which branches to a great distance under the earth, and is sanctified by a thousand wild traditions.” Brash further informs us that “ it is generally be¬ lieved that the caves at Cloyne and the great stalactite caves at Carrig-a-Crump, about two miles distant are connected, which is not improbable. The latter caves have never been thoroughly explored, though penetrated to a distance of one mile.

    Cloyne, according to an ancient MS., was the favourite place of burial for the “ best bloods of Ireland,” on account of the sanctity of the founder of the See. That it was so venerated we find from the will of Cormac Mac Cullenan, who desired to be buried here.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 421

40. Catholic gentlemen volunteer during Bantry Bay alarm

    Cork · city · Cork · 1779

    During the 1779 Bantry Bay alarm in Cork, a great number of Roman Catholic gentlemen offered themselves as volunteers to join their Protestant fellow-citizens in defence and were well received. The gesture illustrated cross-denominational solidarity during a moment of military crisis.

    Read the passage

    “ Being the king’s birth- day, the morning was ushered in by the ringing of bells. At ten o’clock the different armed societies were reviewed in the camp field ; at noon they and the 8 1 st, or Highland Regiment, assembled on the mall and fired three rounds. About three o’clock an express arrived to the com¬ manding officer here frofti Major-General Flower Mocher, then at Kinsale, ordering the Highland Regiment to be ready . to march at the shortest notice, as the general had received a report stating that a fleet, consisting of several ships of the tine, and a great number of frigates and transports, supposed to be French, was seen in Bantry Bay. This communication threw the inhabitants into the greatest consternation. The commanders of the armed societies immediately ordered their drums to beat to arms, and in a very short space of time, the entire body collected again in the mall. At seven in the evening another express arrived from General Mocher, order¬ ing the Highlanders to march immediately to Bandon, where he would join them with his forces from Kinsale, and repair from thence to Bantry. This order was immediately com¬ plied with. A great number of Roman Catholic gentlemen immediately offered themselves as volunteers to join with their Protestant fellow-citizens, and were well received. The care of the city in the mean time devolved on the governor. The mayor summoned a council to consider what was necessary to be done on so alarming an occasion. The gentlemen of the True Blue Society immediately took the guard, and £ kept the police’ in the greatest regularity for the night. Early on the following morning the Highland Regiment returned to town, having received counter orders, as the express sent to Bantry had returned with an account that the alarm was groundless, the fleet having been found to be an English one, which had fired several guns in honour of the day. The lower classes of the people, between this and Bandon, showed their good wishes to the soldiers on their march, by offering them every provision their poor, but hospitable cabins, afforded. All the troops in Kinsale, consisting of upwards of 2,000 men, marched to Bandon, and lay all night under arms.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 320

    As the companion tells it

    The road brings you through Cork, where in 1779 the king's birthday began with ringing bells. Armed societies were reviewed in the camp field at ten o'clock, and at noon they joined the 81st Highland Regiment on the mall and fired three rounds. About three o'clock an express arrived from Major-General Flower Mocher at Kinsale, ordering the Highland Regiment to be ready to march at the shortest notice. A fleet of several ships of the line, a great number of frigates and transports, supposed to be French, had been seen in Bantry Bay. The inhabitants were thrown into the greatest consternation. Commanders of the armed societies ordered their drums to beat to arms, and the entire body collected again in the mall. At seven in the evening another express arrived from General Mocher, ordering the Highlanders to march immediately to Bandon, where he would join them with his forces from Kinsale and repair to Bantry. A great number of Roman Catholic gentlemen immediately offered themselves as volunteers to join with their Protestant fellow-citizens, and were well received. The mayor summoned a council to consider what was necessary. The gentlemen of the True Blue Society took the guard and kept the police in the greatest regularity for the night. Early the following morning the Highland Regiment returned to town with counter orders. The alarm was groundless. The fleet was English, firing guns in honour of the day. The lower classes between Cork and Bandon showed good wishes to the soldiers on their march, offering every provision their poor but hospitable cabins afforded. All the troops in Kinsale, upwards of 2,000 men, marched to Bandon and lay all night under arms.

41. Clancare and Desmond boundary dispute over Kerry palatinate

    Kerry · county · Kerry · 1578–1580

    The Earls of Clancare and Desmond contested whether Mac Carty's lands fell within the bounds of the palatinate of Kerry. They drew their followers into the field to settle the matter by force, but Sir William Drury's presence prevented bloodshed.

    Read the passage

    “ Sir William Drury was appointed lord president of I578‘ Munster, and two years after was elected lord justice of Ireland. This same Sir William Drury being lord justice of Ireland, came into this province, attended by Sir Edward Fitton, and others of the privy council. On the 20th of No¬ vember they wrote to Queen Elizabeth to show the necessity of continuing a lord president in Munster ; for, on the report of this office being suspended, the Irish lords began to commit violences, particularly Lord Boche, who kept a freeholder in irons, who was possessed of an estate of eight plowlands, until he gave all up, except one half plowland ; and when that was complied with, he extorted as much upon that half plowland, as he did upon any other in his countiy ; and with the Lord Barry plundered such tenants and vassals of their corn, as dared to contradict them, without any colour of right or legal process. Nor were the great men free from the extortions and suppressions of their superiors ; for Fitz Gerald, seneschal of Imokilly, had all his com forcibly taken away by the Earl of Desmond, though he was at that time one of the most con¬ siderable private gentlemen in Munster. The earls of Clancare and Desmond had also a contest about the bounds of their respective territories, viz., whether Mac Carty’s lands were within the bounds of the palatine of Kerry or not, which dispute they were about to decide by force, and for that intent drew their respective followers into the field, but the presence of Sir William Drury prevented the effusion of blood, and put a stop to tiffs contest. ’’

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 202

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kerry, this is a county whose boundaries were once worth fighting over. In 1578, Sir William Drury was appointed lord president of Munster, and two years after was elected lord justice of Ireland. As lord justice, he came into this province attended by Sir Edward Fitton and others of the privy council. On the 20th of November they wrote to Queen Elizabeth to show the necessity of continuing a lord president in Munster. On the report of this office being suspended, the Irish lords began to commit violences. Lord Boche kept a freeholder in irons, a man possessed of an estate of eight plowlands, until he gave all up except one half plowland. And when that was complied with, he extorted as much upon that half plowland as he did upon any other in his country. Together with the Lord Barry he plundered such tenants and vassals of their corn as dared to contradict them, without any colour of right or legal process. Nor were the great men free from the extortions of their superiors. Fitz Gerald, seneschal of Imokilly, had all his corn forcibly taken away by the Earl of Desmond, though he was at that time one of the most considerable private gentlemen in Munster. The earls of Clancare and Desmond had a contest about the bounds of their respective territories, whether Mac Carty's lands were within the bounds of the palatine of Kerry or not. They were about to decide this dispute by force, and drew their respective followers into the field. But the presence of Sir William Drury prevented the effusion of blood and put a stop to this contest.

42. Clancarty receives James II at Kinsale

    Kinsale · town · Cork · 1689

    Donough, the third earl of Clancarty, received James II upon his landing at Kinsale and immediately joined his standard during the Jacobite cause. Tradition attributes to him the erection of a mansion attached to a now-ruinous castle.

    Read the passage

    Donough, the third ear-1, was educated at Oxford, under the Archbishop of Canterbury, and married Elizabeth, second daughter of Robert Spencer, earl of Sunderland, after which he went to Ireland, where he continued a Protestant until the arrival of James II. Tradition attributes to him the erection of the mansion attached to the castle now dismantled and even more ruinous than that structure. On the landing of James Clancarty received him at Kinsale, and immediately joined his standard.

    Barrymore Island and Castle. — This castle was the great

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 399

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Kinsale, this is the town where James II landed in 1689. Donough, the third earl of Clancarty, received him here and immediately joined his standard for the Jacobite cause. Clancarty had been educated at Oxford and had remained a Protestant until James's arrival. Tradition also credits him with building the mansion attached to the castle that now stands dismantled and ruinous.

43. Cloyne caves and tower described by Bishop Bennett in 1813

    Cloyne · town · Cork · 1813

    Deep and interesting caves near Cloyne's old Cathedral were traditionally believed to have sheltered St. Colman and later clergy and people fleeing the Danes. Bishop Bennett wrote in 1813 that the tower of Cloyne sits on a small limestone eminence that was once an island surrounded by water.

    Read the passage

    Cioyne was situated in the territory of Ld-Lethain, and in that sub-division which was called Ui-Mocaille, a name that is still retained in the barony of lmokilly. It is distant nineteen miles from Cork, and “is seated in the heart of a rich and highly cultivated country, being embosomed in gently rising hills. It does credit to the choice oi the ancient fatheis who °here took up their abode in very remote times.”— Brash. Journal of Kilkenny , Arch. Society. (New Series, ii. 253.) To distinguish this See from other churches of the same name — of which there were several scattered throughout Ireland * it was sometimes called by the name Cluain-mor, i.e., Hie Great Cloyne,” but more generally Cluain-uamha, that is “ Cloyne of the Caves.” There are some very deep and in¬ teresting caves close by the old Cathedral. It is pi obable St Colman or some of his religious lived in them in olden times , and it is the popular tradition that many of the clergy and people found a safe retreat there when the country was engao-ed by the Danes. The Protestant Bishop Bennett thus writes of the caves in 1813 : — “ The tower of Cloyne is situated on a small limestone eminence, gently rising in the midst of the valley, through which I suppose Cork harbour to have once communicated with the sea, and this eminence, theiefoie, was once an island surrounded with water. On this spot St. Colman, before the year 600, is supposed to have founded lus

    5i8

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 420

44. Cork city name origin and royal charters

    Cork · city · Cork · 1199–1760

    The site of Cork was long known as Corcach mar Mumhan, 'the great marsh of Munster', from the Irish 'cor each' meaning marsh. The city received no fewer than seventeen charters between the reigns of King John and George II, the earliest discovered in 1828 by Richard Sainthill among the Harleian collections.

    Read the passage

    “ The city of Cork ought to be one of the best governed

    communities in the empire, having received no less than seventeen charters between the reigns of King John and George II. Of these, with the exception of the first, amith. has given excellent abstracts. We owe our knowledge of the charter of John to the research and intelligence of Richard Sainthill, Esq., who in 1828, when common speaker, discovered amongst the Harleian collections, in the British Museum, an ancient copy— the original we believe is lost m Norman French, of which he afterwards published a notice, ine fol¬ lowing is the preamble of this charter. John at the time of its grant was only Earl of Morton, and Lord of Ireland

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 407

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, you are in a place whose name comes from the Irish "cor each," meaning marsh. It was long known as Corcach mar Mumhan, the great marsh of Munster. The city received no fewer than seventeen charters between the reigns of King John and George II. Knowledge of the earliest, the charter of King John, comes from Richard Sainthill, who in 1828 discovered an ancient copy among the Harleian collections in the British Museum. The original is believed lost. The copy was in Norman French. At the time of its grant, John was only Earl of Morton and Lord of Ireland.

45. Cork city wall with sixteen towers

    Cork · city · Cork

    The great city wall of Cork encircled the entire city, using the river as a foss and boasting sixteen towers. The eastern walls corresponded with the western side of the present Grand Parade, with portions lately visible near Tobin Street.

    Read the passage

    “ But the most significant object on the map, as it was the chief object of civic care and expenditure, is the great city wall, encircling the whole, with the river for a foss, and six¬ teen towers for a coronal. The eastern walls corresponded with the western side of our present Grand P arade. P ortions of them were lately to be seen near Tobin-street. The Marsh, spreading eastward, is the site of the present South Mall, Patrick-street, and the conterminous streets. It looks on the map decidedly like what Lord Macaulay described it ‘ a desolate marsh, in which a sportsman who pursued the waterfowls sunk deep in the mire at every step.’ The western wall corresponded with the eastern side of the present Duncan - street. The river ran here, as depicted on the map, until the close of the last century. To the west were other marshes, on which now stand Nile-street, Henry-street, the Mardyke, etc. This district was called by our fathers, and is still known as, emphatically, 4 The Marsh.’ The space inside the walls was scarcely a quarter of a mile in length from north to south, and not more than an eighth of a mile in breadth from east to west.

    “ In the south-west angle of the map you see the remains of St. Finnbarr’s Church, with the significant title, £ye Cathedrale Church of old Corcke.’ Not far distant from it to the east, at the place we now call Crosses-green, was the Do¬ minican Abbey of St. Mary’s of the Isle, built on St. Dominick’s Island ’ by the Barrys, nearly four centuries before the time we are considering. It had been a famous place. When the lord deputy came to Cork, it was there he lodged. Thence went forth prelates to rule dioceses far and near at Cashel of the King’s, in O’Neill’s country up north, over in France at fair Toulouse. There died the gallant Edward

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 272

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes through Cork, the great city wall once encircled the whole place, with the river serving as a foss and sixteen towers standing as its crown. The eastern walls ran along what is now the western side of the Grand Parade. Portions of them were still visible near Tobin Street not long ago. The western wall corresponded with the eastern side of present Duncan Street, and the river ran there until the close of the last century. The space inside the walls was small, scarcely a quarter of a mile from north to south, and not more than an eighth of a mile from east to west. Outside the walls lay marshland, spreading eastward, where South Mall and Patrick Street now stand. Lord Macaulay described it as a desolate marsh where a sportsman pursuing waterfowl sank deep in the mire at every step. The district was called, emphatically, The Marsh, and is still known by that name. In the south-west angle stood the remains of St Finnbarr's Church, marked as the cathedral church of old Corcke. Not far east of it, at what is now Crosses Green, stood the Dominican Abbey of St Mary's of the Isle, built on St Dominick's Island by the Barrys nearly four centuries before the time the map records. It had been a famous place. When the lord deputy came to Cork, it was there he lodged. From there prelates went forth to rule dioceses far and near, at Cashel of the King's, in O'Neill's country up north, and over in France at Toulouse. There died the gallant Edward.

46. Cork Grand Jury protests Protestant clergy fee exactions, 1687

    Cork · city · Cork · 1687

    In 1687 the County Cork Grand Jury presentments complained that Protestant clergy exacted sums for christening, purification, burying, and book money from Catholic subjects, suing them in spiritual courts and imprisoning them, thereby dispeopling the country.

    Read the passage

    The County of Cork Grand Jury Presentments at the close of the 1 7th century detail some facts of the deepest interest. In 1687 they present — “ That the Protestant clergy, under colour of law, exact from the Roman Catholick subjects several sums of christening, purification, burying, and book money, and sue them in their spiritual courts, and commit them to prison, so dispeopling the country, etc. That there¬ fore your lordship would favourably represent the same to the government, or otherwise make such order that may hinder these inconveniences ; and the rather because the like duties are not demanded in any other Christian country by the clergy, nor from any other but the Roman Catholics. In 1694 they present— an address to the judge, complaining of the Popish clergy that come from beyond the sea, and praying for the suppression of Popish schools. In 1696 they state “ That John Mulcoroy, a Popish priest, and others, are out on their keeping, and cannot be taken by warrant. We, there¬ fore, pray they may be ordered to surrender themselves by a certain day, or that they may be proclaimed rebels and traitors to the government.” In the following year they complain — “ That Cornelius Crowley, alias Maddery, of Skibbereen, and Owen Mac Owen Sullivan, of Kilcaskin parish, and others, all Irish Papists, have taught • school and continue

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 188

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Cork, this city carries a record from 1687. That year the County Grand Jury made a presentment. They declared that the Protestant clergy, under colour of law, exacted from the Roman Catholick subjects "several sums of christening, purification, burying, and book money," and sued them in their spiritual courts, and committed them to prison, "so dispeopling the country." The Grand Jury asked that the lordship would favourably represent the same to the government, or otherwise make such order that may hinder these inconveniences. They added that "the like duties are not demanded in any other Christian country by the clergy, nor from any other but the Roman Catholics." The presentments continued in the years after. In 1694 the Grand Jury addressed the judge, complaining of Popish clergy that came from beyond the sea, and praying for the suppression of Popish schools. In 1696 they stated that John Mulcoroy, a Popish priest, and others, were out on their keeping and could not be taken by warrant. They prayed they might be ordered to surrender themselves by a certain day, or be proclaimed rebels and traitors to the government. The following year they complained that Cornelius Crowley, alias Maddery, of Skibbereen, and Owen Mac Owen Sullivan, of Kilcaskin parish, and others, all Irish Papists, had taught school and continue.

47. Council at Kilkenny on Spanish arrival

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1601

    A council was being held at Kilkenny to consider what should be done if the Spaniards should arrive, when the announcement came that they had already arrived. Some were for retiring to Dublin; others for departing at once to the scene of action.

    Read the passage

    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.

    Kincurran was besieged by the Lord Deputy and taken, a exploit which brought a special letter of thanks from the queen to her faithful George, in her own autograph, which must have worked strangely in her to induce so great a reward for so small a service.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 250

48. Curran's fiery speech at Captain Teightly's trial in Cork

    Cork · city · Cork · 1789

    At the trial of Captain Teightly in Cork, barrister Mr. Curran called the defendant a ruffian and vowed to affix infamy on his name, provoking a dispute between the bar and the army over whether such language was justified. Curran refused to duel Teightly, treating the matter as a professional issue affecting all lawyers.

    Read the passage

    “January 12, 1789. — At the trial of Captain Teightly, in Cork, which took place about this time, Mr. Curran, counsel against the prisoner, made use of the following expressions : — ‘ He has acted, gentlemen of the jury, like a ruffian, and I will prove him to your satisfaction to have acted so ; and I will affix infamy on his name, as close as ever the regimentals

    Kinsale Harbour.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 322

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through Cork. On January 12, 1789, Captain Teightly stood trial in this city. Mr. Curran, counsel against the prisoner, told the jury: 'He has acted like a ruffian, and I will affix infamy on his name, as close as ever the regimentals.' Those words split the bar and the army. Curran refused to duel Teightly, calling it a professional matter for all lawyers.

49. Danes burn Rossailithir, Kenmare and plunder Cork (c.840)

    Ross Carbery · town · Cork · 840

    Around the year 840, Northern Pirates killed Cormac son of Selbach, plundered Cork, and burned Rossailithir, Kenmare, and much of Munster. The men of middle Munster gave them battle and their slaughter was completed at Ard-Feradagh.

    Read the passage

    “ A.D. 840, the c Wars of the Danes’ mentions an irruption of the Northern Pirates about the year 840, when £ they killed Cormac, son of Selbach, the Anchorite. He it was whom the angel let loose three times, but each time he was bound again. Moreover, Cork was plundered by them, and they burned Eossailithir and Kenmare and the greater part of Munster. But the men of middle Munster gave them battle, and their slaughter was completed at Ard-Feradagh.’

    “ A.D. 850, Condach, Abbot of Eossailithir, died.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 85

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming through Ross Carbery now. Back around 840, northern pirates raided along this coast. They killed Cormac, son of Selbach, an anchorite whom the angel had let loose three times but who was bound again each time. They plundered Cork and burned Rossailithir, the old name for this place, along with Kenmare and much of Munster. But the men of middle Munster fought back and defeated them, completing their slaughter at Ard-Feradagh. Ten years later, in 850, Condach, abbot of Rossailithir, died.

50. Danes settle in Cork and impose nose tax

    Cork · city · Cork · 915

    The Danes settled in Cork in 915 after the death of the Abbot of Cork. They imposed a 'nose' tax on the inhabitants.

    Read the passage

    quiet— The men of Youghal gain a great victory over the Danes —Cork plundered a.d. 877- Death of Reachtaidth, the learned Bishop of Cloyne— The Prior and Abbot of Cloyne slain by the Da^LS~Death of ArSSatann> Abbot of Great Cork ”— A Famine lhe Abbot of Trian Cork falls in battle with the Danes — The men of Fermoy burn the Danish camp— Death of the Abbot of Cork, “ Head of the Monks of Ireland,” a.d. 915— The Danes settle in Cork — The “ nose ” tax.

    CHAP. V. — The Danish Period ... ... ... ... .

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 5

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Cork. This city felt the Danes more than once. They plundered it in 877. Years later, in 915, the Abbot of Cork died. He was called, in the words of the source, "Head of the Monks of Ireland." After his death the Danes settled in Cork and imposed what the record calls the "nose" tax on the people here.

51. Dermot Mac Carty slain near Cork

    Cork · city · Cork · 1185–1200

    Dermot Mac Carty, king of Desmond, was slain by Theobald Walter with a party of the English while holding a conference with other Irish chiefs near Cork.

    Read the passage

    “ This year Dermot Mac Carty, king of Desmond, was slain by Theobald Walter, with a party of the English, as he was holding a conference with other Irish chiefs near Cork.

    Richard 1 ' “ Donald Mac Carty demolished the castle of Imoa.d. 1196. killy, and killed many of the English ; he also plundered the castle of Kilfeakle. Colgan says there was a church in Muskery called by this name, Ecclesia deuis, from a tooth of Saint Patrick kept there. This castle probably stood near it, but the place is not now known. Soon after the English assembled their forces, which made up a good army, but by the interposition of some mediators, a peace was concluded, and both armies dispersed.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 112

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, you are near where Dermot Mac Carty, king of Desmond, was slain by Theobald Walter with a party of the English. He was holding a conference with other Irish chiefs near the city when it happened. Later, in 1196, Donald Mac Carty demolished the castle of Imokilly and killed many of the English. He also plundered the castle of Kilfeakle. Colgan says there was a church in Muskery called by this name, from a tooth of Saint Patrick kept there. This castle probably stood near it, but the place is not now known. Soon after, the English assembled their forces, which made up a good army, but by the interposition of some mediators, a peace was concluded, and both armies dispersed.

52. Desmond convenes rival assembly at Callan

    Callan · street · Tipperary · 1345

    Refusing to attend D'Ufford's parliament in Dublin on 7 June 1345, the Earl of Desmond appointed another assembly to meet at Callan in County Kilkenny, exercising authority in royal style and designating himself Lord of Deyse and of the Liberties of Kerry.

    Read the passage

    The petition was well received and favourably answered, and Sir Raoul D’Ufford was sent to Ireland as Viceroy ; but his wife is said to have shown too much haughtiness of demeanour, and to have kept too much state, to please the colony. D’Ufforcl held, or at least summoned, a parliament in Dublin on the 7th June, 1345 ; but the Earl of Desmond refused to attend it, and appointed another assembly to meet at Callan, in the County Kilkenny. The earl was carrying

    i

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 127

53. Dispute over archbishopric of Armagh and English interference

    near Armagh · town · Armagh · 1200–1215

    On the death of O'Conor, archbishop of Armagh, three Englishmen claimed the office while Eugene, an Irish ecclesiastic, was validly elected. King John forced suffragan bishops to obey, but Celtic chieftains defied the mandate. John Comin was the first Englishman appointed to an Episcopal See in Ireland.

    Read the passage

    9. John Comin was the first Englishman appointed to an Episcopal See in Ireland. So cruel and repacious were the Norman settlers that this English archbishop was obliged to interfere with the sternest measures to protect the rights of the Church, and, as a last resource, he publicly excommunicated the Lord Justice. All this is mentioned in English authorities. It is not mentioned in Froude’s romance. His sins of omission and com¬ mission are far too numerous to notice, and would be passed by with silent indifference, if they were not likely to be taken for gospel by those who have not opportunities of obtaining reliable information .—Frym, vol. ii. , p. 240. Ware’s Bishop, &c., &c.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 118

54. Edmund Mortimer died in Dominican Abbey, Cork

    Cork · city · Cork

    Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March and Ulster and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, died at Cork on St. Stephen's Day in the Dominican Abbey. John Cotton, Dean of St. Patrick's Dublin, was elected as his replacement and sworn in at the Convent of the Preaching Friars.

    Read the passage

    “ This year Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March and Ulster, died at Cork, being Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, on St. Stephen’s Day, in the Dominican Abbey ; and on the 27th, John Cotton, Dean of St. Patrick’s, Dublin, and Lord Chancellor of Ireland, was elected in his room, and sworn in Cork, in the Convent of the Preaching Friars.

    1383- “A great pestilence in this country.2

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 139

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes through Cork, you are near where Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March and Ulster and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, died on St. Stephen's Day in the Dominican Abbey. On the 27th, John Cotton, Dean of St. Patrick's Dublin and Lord Chancellor of Ireland, was elected in his place and sworn in at the Convent of the Preaching Friars. That year, 1383, a great pestilence swept the country.

55. Execution of James Sussex at Cork

    Cork · city · Cork · 1580

    James Sussex was seized early in 1580 by Cormac MacCarthy, sheriff of Cork, and taken to Cork where he was imprisoned for a month. An order from Dublin directed the mayor to put him to death and quarter him, which was carried out.

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    i: James was taken to Cork, and after a month’s imprison¬ ment, during which time he daily prepared himself for death, “an order came from Dublin from the lord justice and the council, ordering the mayor to put that noble forth to death, and cut him in quarters and little pieces.” This was accordingly done.

    Preparations were made by the English immediately after Christmas for what they hoped would prove a war of exter-

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 212

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, you are in the city where James Sussex was brought in 1580. He was seized by Cormac MacCarthy, sheriff of Cork, and held prisoner here for a month. He prepared himself for death each day. Then an order came from Dublin, from the lord justice and the council, ordering the mayor to put him to death and cut him in quarters and little pieces. This was done.

56. Fermoy territory granted to druid Mogh Ruith

    Fermoy · townland · Cork · 220

    After the victory over Cormac Mac Airt's invaders around AD 220, the territory of Magh Meine (Fermoy) was granted to the druid Mogh Ruith as a reward. His descendants, including families of O'Dugan and O'Cronin, continued to inhabit the district.

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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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is the territory once known as Magh Meine, the ancient name of Fermoy. The story goes back to about the year 220, when Cormac Mac Airt invaded Munster. He encamped at Drom Damhghaire, now Knocklong in County Limerick. The Munster men sent for a famous druid called Mogh Ruith, who was brought from Oilean Daicke, the island now known as Valentia. He assisted them so effectually that they won a splendid victory and drove out the invaders. As a reward for his services, Magh Meine was conferred on the druid. It came to be called Fearn Moga, "the land of Muga," as written in some old manuscripts. His tribe and family settled in this territory and took the tribe name Fer Mugia, meaning "the men of Muga," which was anglicised as Fermoy. The race of Mogh Ruith continued to inhabit the district, in the families of O'Dugan and O'Cronin, and others there and in the neighbouring districts. The Book of Lismore gives more on its names. It was called Caile Meic n Eirce, because the sons of Ere dwelt there, namely Mene, Uatha, and Ailbhe. It was also called Fir Muighe Mene, because of the abundance of minerals in the mountains and in all the fields around it. Another name was Corr Chaille Meic Con, because it was the patrimony of the Clann Dairine. And it is here that Ross-na-Righ lies, the ancient burial place of the Kings of Munster, and where Mac Con remained until the time of the battle of Ceann Abrath.

57. Florence MacCarthy approaches Cork with 300 troops

    Cork · city · Cork · 1600

    After writing to Sir Henry Power seeking protection to parley, Florence MacCarthy came within two miles of Cork with 300 Connaught men, and the council gave him ward.

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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 near Cork, this is where Florence MacCarthy came with 300 Connaught men in 1600, close to the city. The case stood thus. Florence MacCarthy gave out in private messages to his friends in the towns where he was well favoured, especially Kinsale, that he continued loyal to her Majesty, and had done what was done in deep policy to cozen Tyrone by war out of England, for the better safety of himself and his countries. The Irish believed this and held him a good subject, and so did some of the English, not knowing that this was the very practice of O'Neill himself at his first entrance into rebellion, to dally with the state and the world until he had fitted himself. Florence, being in camp beside Kinsale with O'Neill, had from his friends bottles of wine and better relief. This was delivered with the wish that it might be looked into, along with other of the town's doings. On the 27th of the last month, Florence wrote to Sir Henry Power for protection to parley with him. The council agreed and gave him ward. The following day, Florence came within two miles of Cork with 300 Connaught men.

58. Founding of Inniscarra and its name

    Inishcarra · parish · Cork

    St. Senan founded a church at Tuaim-na-mba on the river Lee, but a local chief demanded rent and left his horse to be maintained by the monastery. The horse drowned in the river, leaving only its quarters (carra), which gave the place the name Inniscarra.

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    an angel appeared to liim, and told him to found a chnrch and assemble his disciples around him. St. Senan went to Tuaim-na-mba , on the side of the river Linne (Lee), and there founded his church. But the local chief ordered him off his ground and demanded rent, and at last sent his horse to be maintained at the expense of the monastery. “ The steed,” says the chronicler, “ fell into the river and was drowned, and nothing remained but her quarters, (carra). Hence the place was called Inniscarra .”

    St. Senan left eight disciples here with St. Cillian under the protection of Fechin, son of Faighe, King of Muscraighe , who was a disciple of St. Senan.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 93

59. Franciscan Father Mooney's visit to Dr. Creagh

    Cork · city · Cork · 1599

    In 1599, Franciscan Father Mooney visited Dr. Creagh, the persecuted Bishop of Cork, during a period of harrowing anxiety when the bishop shared the perils of the Irish chieftains' camp, ministering religious comforts to them amid the devastation of southern Ireland.

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    On the 31st of October, 1595, a brief was addressed to “ Dermitio Episcopo Corcagiensi,” commissioning him to grant some ecclesiastical livings to Owen Mac Egan, who a few years later became Vicar Apostolic of Eoss. In 1599 Dr. Creagh was visited by the Franciscan Father Mooney, who in his History of the Order, commemorating this visit, describes the bishop as vir valde prudens et in rebus agendis versatus.” This must have been a period of harrowing anxiety for the bishop. His diocese was laid waste by fire and sword, the Irish chieftains driven to arms by the iniquitous policy of the agents of Elizabeth, having made the southern districts of Ireland the theatre of their struggle. Dr. Creagh shared the perils of their camp, ministering to them the comforts of

    religion.8

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 182

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Cork, this is a city whose story in 1599 turns on a hunted bishop. Dr. Creagh held the see of Cork that year, and the Franciscan Father Mooney came to visit him. Mooney, writing later in his History of the Order, called the bishop a man, in his words, valde prudens et in rebus agendis versatus, very prudent and experienced in affairs. It must have been a harrowing time. The diocese had been laid waste by fire and sword. The Irish chieftains, driven to arms by the iniquitous policy of the agents of Elizabeth, had made the southern districts of Ireland the theatre of their struggle. Creagh shared the perils of their camp and ministered to them the comforts of religion.

60. Geraldine fortress of Ardnagragh above Castleisland

    Ardnagragh · sub-townland · Kerry

    The fortress of Ardnagragh stood in a mountain defile above Castleisland and commanded the pass into O'Keeffe's country. Kilmurry and Ballymac Luodam were held by the Geraldines in the same neighbourhood.

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    The fortress of Ardnagragh stood in a mountain defile above Castleisland, and commanded the pass into 0 Keeffe s country, and the Kerry and Cork O’Keeffes were men of mettle in those warlike times. Kilmurry and Bally mac Luodam were in the same neighbourhood, and were also held by the Geraldines. A stone coffin was dug up in the churchyard of Kilnanonain during the present century, which was believed to have contained the remains of the once famous earl. Some modem barbarian broke it up for his limekiln — “ an act of gratuitous mischief,” observes a writer in the Kerry Magazine , on whose authority I give the above statement, “ in a district where limestone is abundant.”

    The traditions of the county give Owen Moriarty the obloquy of being the murderer of the earl, and his own depo¬ sitions are quite sufficient evidence of his complicity, though, from an apparently accidental circumstance, he did not strike the fatal blow. Owen went by the name of Droghbeada (of the bad English), which tells a good deal. From this it is evident that he must have had some intercourse with the English, and was probably willing to be on their side, and to resist any demand which the earl might make upon him for assistance.

    Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 232