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

Cork sword and maces lost in 1690 siege

Cork · city · Cork · 1690

The Cork Corporation council books record that in July 1690, Mayor Dominick Sarsfield was held responsible for the loss of the city's sword and maces. The council refused him any abatement in price for the lost insignia.

Read the passage

“ Whereas Dominick Sarsfield hath made application unto this board for abatement in the price of sword and maces, and being put to the vote whether any abatement should be given him of the same, it was carried by the majority of votes in the negative that noe abatement shall be given him.”
The following are also of interest : —

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 413

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, this city holds a story from 1690. On July 28th that year, the Corporation council books record that Mayor Dominick Sarsfield sought an abatement in the price of the sword and maces he had lost. The board voted, and by majority decided "noe abatement shall be given him."

Countess of Desmond submits at Clonmel

Clonmel · town · Tipperary · 1583

Sir Henry Wallop wrote from Clonmel on 10 April 1583 to inform the Earl of Leicester of the Countess of Desmond's submission, and reported a rumour that Desmond himself might come to Clonmel under protection, though he never did. Clonmel served as a centre of English administration during the final suppression of the rebellion.

Read the passage

On the ioth of April, 1583, Sir Henry Wallop wrote to the Earl of Leicester to inform him of the submission of the Countess of Desmond, the circumstances of which we have already related. He said there was a “ bruit that Desmond himself should come hither [to Clonmel] in two or three daies, upon a protection but it was only “ a bruit,” for Desmond did not come. “ John Lacy had licence,” he continued, “ to deal with the earle, his master, concerning his submission," and “pleaded him to submit himself simplie to her Majesties mercy, and, in manifestation, to yield himself to the lord general.” But Desmond had not drunk the cup of humiliation to the dregs even then, for though he listened patiently to the suggestion of submitting to the' queen, the idea of suK
DESMOND SEEING FOR PARDON. s69

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 229

Danes plunder Cloyne and kill its bishops

Cloyne · town · Cork · 888

In 888, Cloyne (Cluain-Uamha) was plundered again by the Danes. Bishop and abbot Fergal son of Finachta and sub-abbot Uanan son of Cerin were killed in the attack.

Read the passage

A.D. 888. — Cluain-Uamha was again plundered by the Danes, and Fergal son of Finachta, its bishop and abbot, and Uanan, son of Cerin, its sub-abbot, were killed.
A.D. 1056. — Daighre O’Dubatan, anchorite of Cloyne, died at Glendaloch.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 424

Desmond sets up camp at Ballyhourra

Ballyhoura · townland · Cork · 1579–1583

After being proclaimed a traitor on 2 November 1579, the Earl of Desmond set up his camp at Ballyhourra in Cork, beginning four years of miserable and fearful war.

Read the passage

| The Earl of Desmond had now committed himself so far, that he was proclaimed a traitor on the 2nd November, 1579. The earl set up his camp at Ballyhourra, in Cork, and then began four years of miserable and fearful war. J ames Sussex was seized early in the year 1580 by Cormac MacCarthy, who was theff sheriff of Cork, and so loyal as to win the praises of Sir Henry Sidney, who declared him to be the “ rarest man that ever was born of the Irishry ;” and it certainly was rare for a MacCarthy to signalize himself by devotion to the English cause. *
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.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 212

Earl of Kildare garrisons Cork for Perkin Warbeck's support

Cork · city · Cork · 1498

In October 1498, the Earl of Kildare marched to Cork and placed a strong garrison in the city because the citizens had given assistance to Perkin Warbeck. The same month, he compelled the principal citizens of Kinsale to swear allegiance to King Henry and enter bonds for their future loyalty.

Read the passage

In October, 1498, the Earl of Kildare marched to Cork, and placed a strong garrison in the city, because of the dis¬ obedience of the citizens in affording assistance to Perkin Warbeck. The same month he caused the principal citizens, and the inhabitants of Kinsale, to take the oath of allegiance to King Henry, and obliged them to enter into bonds and pledges for their future loyalty.
In November, Perkin Warbeck and his friend, John

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 149

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, in October 1498 the Earl of Kildare marched here and placed a strong garrison in the city. He did it because the citizens had helped Perkin Warbeck. That same month he made the principal citizens of Kinsale swear allegiance to King Henry and enter bonds for their future loyalty.

First charter granted to Cork City under Henry II

Cork · city · Cork

Cork received its first charter during the reign of Henry II, granting citizens all fields held of the city and the ground on which the city stood, to be held in frank burgage under the same customs and rent as the burgesses of Bristol paid.

Read the passage

“ I have granted, and given, and by this my charter confirm to the citizens of Cork, all the fields held of my city of Cork’ and the ground on which the city is now, for my benefit, to increase the strength of the citizens. This is to them and their heirs to hold of me, and my heirs, and to remain in frank burgage by such customs and rent as the burgesses of Bristol, in England, pay yearly for their burgages ; and to secure my

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 144

As the companion tells it

Cork got its first charter under Henry the Second. He granted the citizens all fields held of the city and the ground the city stood on, to be held in frank burgage under the same customs and rent as the burgesses of Bristol paid yearly for their burgages. The charter says he did it for his benefit, to increase the strength of the citizens, and that it was to them and their heirs to hold of him and his heirs.

Florence MacCarthy's camp near Kinsale receives supplies

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1600

While Florence MacCarthy was in camp beside Kinsale with O'Neil, he received bottles of wine and better relief from his friends, as reported by the bishop of Cork to the English parliament.

Read the passage

“ 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

Up ahead is Kinsale. In 1600, Florence MacCarthy was in camp beside this town with O'Neill. He sent private messages to friends in the towns where he was well favoured, especially in Kinsale, saying he remained loyal to her Majesty and that what he had done was deep policy against O'Neill, to draw war out of England, for the better safety of himself and his countries. The Irish believed this and held him a good subject, and some of the English did too, not knowing this was the very practice of O'Neill himself at his first entry into rebellion, to dally with the state until he had fitted himself. Florence being in camp besides Kinsale with O'Neill, had bottles of wine and better relief from his friends there. The bishop of Cork reported this to the English parliament, saying he could not but deliver it, wishing 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 asking protection to parley with him. The council agreed and gave him ward. The next day, Florence came within two miles of Cork with 300 Connacht men. Lord Barry had been warned repeatedly that he would suffer 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'Neill 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, his mares, and his garans, than for his religion.

Franciscan convent of Buttevant, 1251

Buttevant · town · Cork · 1251–1603

The Franciscan convent of Buttevant was built in 1251 and placed under the care of the Superior of Cork in 1260. In Elizabeth's reign the friars were driven away, buildings were ruined, and the church preserved only on account of the tombs of nobility buried there.

Read the passage

corporate town, and to judge from its ruins it must have been of considerable importance. The Barrys ruled here with regal splendour, and almost with royal power. Smith says : — “ This whole town seems formerly to have been an assemblage of churches and religious houses” (History of Cork , vol. i, p. 315), and it merited from Burlase the eulogy that “it was an old nest of abbots and friars.” Ward, in his MS. History, gives the following account of the Franciscan Convent of Buttevant : — “ It was built in 1251, and was placed under the care of the Superior of Cork in 1260. In the reign of Queen Elizabeth the friars were several times driven away from it, and some of them were arrested and thrown into prison. All the buildings, with the exception of the church, were mined, and that was preserved on account of the tombs of the nobility there buried, but all the images were broken. Still some of the friars continued to reside there — partly in the conventual buildings, or their ruins, and partly in the neighbourhood.” Wadding also writes regarding this place, Buttefanie, or Buttevanie : — “ The town was formerly large and frequented, now it is reduced and poor. Two illustrious families — the Barrys and the Lombards — had their residence there. Some say that the convent was erected by the Barrys, others by the Pendergasts, but I think it was by the Barrys, whose magni¬ ficent tomb was erected in the middle of the choir, and whose family always evinced their piety towards our order. In the church are many sepulchres of nobles. It is wonderful with what care the friars have repaired some of the ruins of this convent. . In the crypt is an immense collection of bones and skulls, which are probably supposed to be the remains of those who fell in the sanguinary battle of Knockninoss, on the 1 3th of November, 1647. Among those who were slain on this occasion are the famous Mac Alistair Mac Donnell, surnamed Colkitto. It is said, however, that a great portion of these human bones were brought to this church from the ancient abbey of Ballybeg, about half a mile distant, by a farmer who got possession of the abbey-land and graveyard, and who was justly solicitous to deposit such remains in consecrated ground.”

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 394

French fleet mistook Dursey for Mizen Head

near Dursey Island · townland · Cork · 1796

The French fleet came within view of the Irish coast in three days after leaving Brest but mistook Dursey Island for Mizen Head, delaying their arrival at Bantry Bay until 24 December 1796.

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

Gill Abbey ruins and St. Patrick's cave near Cork

Cork · city · Cork

The ruins of Gill Abbey are situated one mile from Cork, opposite a well called by the English 'Sunday Spring,' on the south side of the sea. A cave extending far underground is traditionally associated with St. Patrick, who is said to have resorted there often for prayer.

Read the passage

“ opposite the well called by the English ‘ Sunday Spring,5 to the south side of the sea. Here is a cave which extends far under the ground, where they say St. Patrick resorted often for prayer.”
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 you pass through Cork, you are near the ruins of Gill Abbey. In 1644, De la Beullaye described them standing one mile from Cork, opposite a well the English called Sunday Spring, on the south side of the sea. Beneath is a cave that extends far under the ground, where they say St. Patrick resorted often for prayer. The years after brought trouble to Cork. In 1687, the County Cork Grand Jury presented that Protestant clergy, under colour of law, exacted from Roman Catholic subjects several sums of christening, purification, burying, and book money, and sued them in spiritual courts, and committed them to prison, so dispeopling the country. They asked that this be represented to the government, noting that the like duties were not demanded in any other Christian country by the clergy, nor from any but Roman Catholics. In 1694, they addressed the judge, complaining of Popish clergy coming 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 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.

Gravel at 2,050 feet on Mullaghanish Mountain

near Mullaghanish · mountain or mountain range · Cork

Mr. Du Noyer found gravel and sand at the height of 2,050 feet on Mullaghanish Mountain, nine miles north-west by west of Macroom, giving evidence of great depth of submergence in the sea after glaciation.

Read the passage

just north of Cork, near New Glanmire, near Midleton, and beyond Ballinacurra, near Castlemartyr, near Youghal, and m man3' other places. These gravels often contain an ad¬ mixture of far transported materials, such as we do not find in the boulder clay, fragments of sea shells, oysters, etc., have 066H found in tins drift m this county by Mr. F. M. Jennino’s and by Mr. A. B. Wynne. In other parts of Ireland a con¬ siderable number of marine shells have been obtained in this formation. Mr. Du Noyer found gravel and sand at the height of 2,050 feet on Mullaghanish. Mountain, nine miles N.AV. by W. of Maeroom, giving evidence of the great depth of the submergence in the sea (there is evidence of a similar subsidence in north Wales). In some places, but not yet in Ireland, Arctic shells have been found in these gravels. It seems to have been chiefly during the latter part of this sub¬ mergence that the far- transported boulders were carried about, these are often found lying on mounds of gravel and sand; which circumstances proves that they were left there after the submergence had begun, and also that they must have been borne thither by floating ice. Any rush of water strong enough to leave, often very large, blocks on a mound of gravel, would have swept away the gravel before moving the block. A great many blocks of Galway granite have been found in many parts of this county, as far south as four miles north of Carrigtohill, near Midleton. Chalk flints may be found on the east side of Youghal Bay, not only on the shore but in the cliffs of drift, also in Ballycotton Bay. They have been found also on the shore of Inisherkin and Inishodriscol and the N.E. part of Roaring Water Bay. Mr. Wyley, who found them there, thought they might possibly have been brought by vessels in ballast. The nearest chalk with flints that we know of is in Antrim, in N.E. Ireland.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 367

Kerry granted to Raymond le Gros, origin of Fitzmaurice family

Lixnaw · town · Kerry · 1173

In gratitude for Raymond le Gros's assistance against his rebellious son, King Dermod MacCarthy bestowed a considerable portion of Kerry on him. Raymond settled his eldest son Maurice there, originating the Fitzmaurice family, barons of Lixnaw, now represented by the Marquis of Lansdowne.

Read the passage

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

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 109

Mutineers escape from Cork bridewell

Cork · city · Cork · 1795

Sergeant Mulhall of the 105th Regiment and others involved in a recent mutiny escaped from the bridewell of Cork city before undergoing punishment. It was reported that Freemasons to which Mulhall belonged may have been involved in the escape.

Read the passage

“October n, 1795. — Sergeant Mulhall, of the 105th, and some others who had been concerned in the late mutiny, escaped from the bridewell of This city, previous to their undergoing the punishment they were to have received for the offence. It was said that the freemasons to which he belonged were concerned in his escape.
“April 28, 1796. — The foundation stone of a Eoman Catholic chapel was laid in Bandon.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 322

As the companion tells it

As the road takes you through Cork, in October 1795 Sergeant Mulhall of the 105th Regiment and some others who had been concerned in a late mutiny escaped from the bridewell of this city, before the punishment they were to receive for the offence. It was said that the Freemasons to which Mulhall belonged were concerned in his escape.

Ploughshares placed in Cork streets as protest

Cork · city · Cork · 1600–1603

When the lord lieutenant entered Cork, the people placed ploughshares along both sides of the street to draw attention to the misery they had suffered from being unable to till their lands in peace.

Read the passage

When the lord lieutenant entered the city the people placed plow shares on each side of the street, to call attention to the misery they had so long suffered from not being allowed to till their lands in peace. Smith is pleased to call this “ silly.” Perhaps if he had endured the same misery he might have altered his mode of expression.
For once some little mercy was shown, and example was made of “only some few of the ringleaders.” They were tried by an “ Irish jury” and acquitted, “ though there was full and undeniable evidence against them.”9

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 277

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, there is a story from between 1600 and 1603. When the lord lieutenant entered the city, the people placed ploughshares on each side of the street, to call attention to the misery they had so long suffered from not being allowed to till their lands in peace. Smith, a writer on Cork, calls this silly. Perhaps if he had endured the same misery he might have altered his expression. For once some little mercy was shown, and an example was made of only some few of the ringleaders. They were tried by an Irish jury and acquitted, though there was full and undeniable evidence against them.

Plundering raid from Muskerry to Iveragh

Iveragh · barony · Kerry · 1581

Sir John Desmond led a hosting against Mac Carthy More, remaining two or three days plundering and traversing his territory from Muskerry to Iveragh before returning with an immense prey of cattle to Magunihy, described as the greatest seen in one place.

Read the passage

“ Another hosting was made by John, the son of James, in the month of J une, against Mac Carthy More, and he remained two or three days plundering and traversing his territory, from Muskerry to Ui-Rathach [Iveragh], and he then returned with prizes and spoils to Magh-y-Conchinne [Magunihy]. Those who beheld them declared that they never had before seen such a great pray of cattle in one place.
“ The Earl of Desmond was encampted at Uch-da-eo [Aghado, near Killarney], and at the time an English captain, namely, Sinitoe [Zouch], was appointed by the queen and the lord justice to preside over Desmond and Kerry. The captain marched day and night with a party of cavalry to make an attack on the camp of the Earl of Desmond, and it was on a Sunday morning that he arrived at the camp. The earl and all those who were with him were at this time buried in deep sleep and profound slumber, for they had remained vigilant on the watch all the night, and until that time. This captain immediately and alertly attacked all those whom he found straying in the streets, and slew them without mercy, nor did he wait for battle or engagement, but proceeded directly until he reached Castlemaine.”

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 222

Poor cabin dwellers offer provisions to marching soldiers

Bandon · town · Cork · 1779

When troops marched from Cork toward Bandon during the 1779 Bantry Bay alarm, the lower classes of people along the route offered soldiers every provision their poor cabins could afford. The gesture demonstrated the hospitality of impoverished rural dwellers between Cork and Bandon.

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

Siege and capture of Kincurran

near Old Head of Kinsale · promontory · Cork · 1601

Kincurran was besieged by the Lord Deputy and taken, an exploit which brought a special letter of thanks from Queen Elizabeth in her own autograph. The author notes the queen's reward seems disproportionately generous for so small a service.

Read the passage

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.
The Lord President was to interrupt the northern chiefs, but the country fell wide, gave no help in the way of

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 250

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Old Head of Kinsale, the Lord Deputy besieged and took Kincurran in 1601. The exploit earned a special letter of thanks from Queen Elizabeth, written in her own hand, to her faithful George. The author notes the queen's reward seems strangely generous for so small a service.

Thomas Fitzmaurice sits in Dublin parliament, 1295

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1295

Thomas Fitzmaurice, Lord Offaly and captain of all Desmond, married the daughter of John Lord Barry and sat as Lord Offaly in a parliament held in Dublin on 18 October 1295. He claimed to be the king's sheriff in the counties of Cork, Waterford, and Kerry.

Read the passage

I.’s grant to his grandfather, John Fitz Thomas, whose heir he was. He married the daughter of John, Lord Barry, and sat as Lord Offaly in a parliament held in Dublin the 18th of October, 1295, (by John Wogan, who then succeeded him in his office) : left two sons — (1) John, who was the eighth Lord Offaly, and was created Earl of Kenmare ; and (2) Maurice, created Earl of Desmond. He died, according to Henry of Marlborough, in 1298. In the same parliament sat also Maurice Fitz Maurice, the second lord of Kerry, and to him King Edward I., in 1297, sent his writ cf summons to assist him in an expedition to Scotland, which he obeyed by going thither with his horse and arms, prepared for that service.”
5. It is to be feared the sheriffs could not always have worked harmoniously, and that the “ high justice ” of these “absolute palatines” sometimes consisted in the enforcement of their own will and pleasure. By way of complicating matters still further, the native Irish observed their own laws ; and the Brehor. Code, with its presumptive claims of some thousand years and more, was their rule of legal right and wrong.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dublin, this is the city where Thomas Fitzmaurice sat as Lord Offaly in a parliament held on the 18th of October, 1295. The parliament was held by John Wogan, who then succeeded him in his office. Thomas had married the daughter of John, Lord Barry. He left two sons: John, who became the eighth Lord Offaly and was created Earl of Kenmare, and Maurice, who was created Earl of Desmond. According to Henry of Marlborough, Thomas died in 1298. In that same parliament sat Maurice Fitz Maurice, the second lord of Kerry. Two years later, in 1297, King Edward the First sent him a writ of summons to assist in an expedition to Scotland. He obeyed, going there with his horse and arms, prepared for that service. The sheriffs in these lands could not always have worked harmoniously. The high justice of these absolute palatines sometimes consisted in the enforcement of their own will and pleasure. The native Irish observed their own laws, and the Brehon Code, with its presumptive claims of some thousand years and more, was their rule of legal right and wrong.

Vicar-Apostolic's letter from Waterford on Catholic suffering

Waterford · city · Waterford · 1606

The Vicar-Apostolic of Waterford and Lismore wrote a detailed account of sufferings of Irish Catholics to Cardinal Baronius, dated Waterford, 1st May 1606. He described how soldiers pursued defenceless priests day and night and there was scarcely a safe retreat for Catholics.

Read the passage

The penal statutes were renewed, and enforced with in¬ creased severity. Several members of the Corporation and some of the principal citizens of Dublin were sent to prison ; similiar outrages on religious liberty were perpetrated at Waterford, Ross, and Limerick. In some cases these gentle¬ men were only asked to attend the Protestant church once, but they nobly refused to act against their conscience even once, though it should procure them freedom from imprison¬ ment, or even death. The Vicar-Apostolic of Waterford and Lismore wrote a detailed account of the sufferings of the Irish nation for the faith at this period to Cardinal Baronius. His letter is dated “Waterford, 1st of May, 1606.” He says : — “ There is scarcely a spot were Catholics can find a safe retreat. The impious soldiery, by day and night, pursue the defenceless priests, and mercilessly persecute them. Up to the present
348

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 283

William Roche, Archdeacon of Cloyne, appointed auxiliary bishop

Cloyne · town · Cork · 1461

In 1461, William Roche (alias De Rupe), Archdeacon of Cloyne, was appointed auxiliary bishop to the aged Dr. Jordan with right of succession to the united sees. He was described as of noble lineage and distinguished by zeal, prudence, and learning, but proved displeasing to both the aging bishop and the English monarch.

Read the passage

1 kirty years later intelligence was conveyed to Pope Pius II. that this bishop, weighed down by the burden of eighty 3^ ears, was no longer able to exercise his episcopal functions, the more so as he was subject to frequent infirmities, and suffering from an excessive weakness of sight. Hence, on 27th of May, 1461, we find. William Roche (alias De Rupe) appointed auxiliary bishop of Dr. Jordan, with right of succession to the united sees. In the brief of appointment he is styled “Archdeacon of Cloyne, of noble lineage, distinguished by his zeal, prudence, and learning “ aliarumque virtutum doms quibus eum Altissimus insignivit” (Monument. Vatic., page 430.) This prelate, however, was not pleasing to the aged bishop, whilst he was specially distasteful to the English monarch : and to restore peace to the see, Rome found it necessary, in the following year, to relieve Dr. Roche of the duties of auxiliary bishop.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 172

Zouch's surprise attack on Castlemaine

Castlemaine · town · Kerry · 1581

Captain Zouch marched on Castlemaine early in 1581 and surprised the Earl of Desmond, who barely escaped. Sir John Desmond and James Fitzmaurice had been leading a wandering life, plundering through the surrounding country.

Read the passage

After the capture of the Fort del Ore, the leaders of the Geraldines were all captured, one by one, and executed. The lord deputy went to Dingle, Captain Zouch was appointed to govern the country, and he marched on Castlemaine early in 1581, where he surprised the Earl of Desmond, who escaped with great difficulty. Sir John Desmond and James Fitzmaurice had been leading a wandering life, plundering through the country.
Under the year 1581, the Four Masters ha\ e the following records : —

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 222

1737 Pamphlet on Cork Corporation Disputes

Cork · city · Cork · 1737

A pamphlet published in 1737 under the pseudonym Alexander the Coppersmith offered a caustic portrait of Cork's corporation disputes, describing their business as conducted with an undercurrent of personality and undue use of influence. The writer commented on the religion, trade, government, police, customs, manners, and maladies of the city of Cork.

Read the passage

We get a curious picture of Cork history from a pamphlet which was published in 173 7A The writer sketches his cynicism under a fictitious name, and alludes in caustic terms to the disputes of the corporation, who appear to have acquired, or, perhaps, inherited, the habit of carrying on their business with an under current of personality and an undue use of the
from the Roman Catholic subjects several sums for christening, purification, burying, and book money, and sue them in their spiritual courts, and commit them to prison, so dis¬ peopling the country, etc., that therefore your lordship would favourably present the same to the government, or otherwise make such order that may hinder these in con¬ veniences, and the rather because the like duties are not demanded in any other Christian country by the clergy, nor from any others but the Roman Catholics. ” The bitter hatred between Catholics and Protestants was terribly intensified by all this. As an example we may notice the will of John Langley, of Bandon, who ordered his body to be kept above ground for six days and nights, and to have fifty Irishmen invited to the wake, and well supplied with beer, “ so that when they get drunk they may kill each other, and in this way do something towards lessening the damned breed.” See Bennett's History of Bandon , where the genuineness of the document is vouched for ; it is still in existence. It is simply horrible to think of any man going before his Maker in such dispositions. Langley was one of Cromwell’s soldiers.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 314

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, in 1737 a pamphlet appeared under the fictitious name Alexander the Coppersmith. The writer drew a caustic picture of the corporation's disputes, describing their business as carried on with, in his words, an under current of personality and an undue use of influence. The pamphlet touched on religion, trade, government, police, customs, manners, and the maladies of the city. The religious bitterness it alluded to was real. Roman Catholics were charged sums for christening, purification, burying, and what was called book money. Clergy sued them in spiritual courts and committed them to prison, dispeopling the country. These duties were not demanded in any other Christian country, nor from any but Roman Catholics. The hatred between Catholics and Protestants was intensified by all this. John Langley of Bandon, one of Cromwell's soldiers, ordered in his will that his body be kept above ground for six days and nights. He wanted fifty Irishmen invited to the wake and well supplied with beer, in his words, so that when they get drunk they may kill each other, and in this way do something towards lessening the damned breed. The document is still in existence, its genuineness vouched for in Bennett's History of Bandon.

Capp of Maintenance lost on surrender of Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1690–1703

In January 1703, the Cork Corporation noted that the Capp of Maintenance, anciently belonging to the city, was carried away with the sword and maces upon the surrender of the city or otherwise lost. A new one was ordered to be procured from Dublin.

Read the passage

“21 January, 1703. — Whereas the Capp of Maintenance, anciently belonging to this city, was carried away with the sword and maces, upon the surrender of this city, or otherwise lost, so that there has been no such thing ever since. Now, for as much as the same was anciently granted as a badge of honour to this city, it is thought fit that a new one be bought, etc., the mayor having proposed to send for one to Dublin, is desired to direct that it be after the manner of that citty e’s, and that the charge thereof be paid by the chamber laine out of the public revenue, and to be allowed the same in his account.”
“ It was ordered that the city chest be sent to the mayors house, and all the grants, charters, counterparts of leases, bonds, hooks, and other papers of moment belonging to this corporation, in their own right, or in trust for the hospital of St. Stephens, together with the common seale, be forth wth put therein, and the three keys belonging thereunto be kept by the persons following, viz. : — One by the mayor of the citty for the time being, one by Aid. Daniel Crone, and one by Aid. Wm. Goddard, and the chest to pass from mayor to mayor, and in regard it is conceived yl the present common seale, being made since the late warr is less than the former

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 413

As the companion tells it

As the road takes you through Cork, this city holds a story from the years after the surrender of 1690. The Capp of Maintenance, anciently belonging to this city, was carried away with the sword and maces upon the surrender, or otherwise lost. There had been no such thing ever since. It was anciently granted as a badge of honour to Cork. On 21 January 1703, it was thought fit that a new one be bought. The mayor proposed to send for one to Dublin, and was desired to direct that it be made after the manner of that city's. The charge was to be paid by the chamberlain out of the public revenue and allowed in his account. It was also ordered that the city chest be sent to the mayor's house. All the grants, charters, counterparts of leases, bonds, books, and other papers of moment belonging to the corporation, in their own right or in trust for the hospital of St. Stephens, together with the common seal, were to be put therein. Three keys belonged to the chest: one kept by the mayor for the time being, one by Alderman Daniel Crone, and one by Alderman William Goddard. The chest was to pass from mayor to mayor. The present common seal, made since the late war, was less than the former.

Castle of Kilfeakle and church of Saint Patrick's tooth

Kilfeakle · townland · Tipperary · 1196

Colgan records a church in Muskery called Ecclesia deuis, which preserved a tooth of Saint Patrick. The castle of Kilfeakle plundered by Donald Mac Carty probably stood near it, though the place is no longer known.

Read the passage

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.
“ This year died Richard de Carew, a man of great power and name in this kingdom, who built seven al castles in this county.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 112

Charleville charter school and Barry Yelverton

Charleville · town · Cork

A charter school was established in Charleville, where Barry Yelverton, later Lord Avonmore, learned his classics. The town also had a burial ground called Ballysah, which a parish priest's document indicated should be called Holy Cross.

Read the passage

Charleville. — This town was founded by, and obtained its name from, the Earl of Orrery. He writes to the Duke of Ormond “ that he would not allow either a Presbyterian or Papist or fanatic to plant here.” Yet out of the 475 houses, which now form the town, only fourteen are in the occupation of Protestants. A charter school was established here, at which Barry Yelverton (Lord Avonmore) learned his classics.
There is a burial ground near Charleville, called Ballysah, but I am informed that a document left by a parish priest of Charleville, says that it should be called Holy Cross. An Irish poet, John Mac Donnell, is buried here. He was born in 1691, and his memory is still held in affectionate remembrance amongst the people.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 420

Danes repulsed at Loch Lein (Killarney)

Killarney · town · Kerry

The first Danish invasion met stout resistance at Loch Lem (Killarney), where the Eoganachts repulsed the Danes with considerable slaughter.

Read the passage

The first Danish invasion met with stout resistance at Loch Lem (Killarney), where the Eoganachts repulsed them with considerable slaughter.
But the booty, of which they had more than a glimpse, was too tempting to be lost without further effort, and another invasion was planned and carried out in 822, during the reign of Fedhlimedh, son of Crimthann, King of Munster.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 54

Desmond ravages barony of Muskery

near Muskerry · street · Cork · 1521

In 1521, James, Earl of Desmond began to ravage and lay waste the barony of Muskery, the territory of Connor Oge MacCarthy, continuing the long-standing feud between the Desmonds and MacCarthys.

Read the passage

The country was not very likely to be “quieted” while there were Mac Carthys and Desmonds to keep up the feud. I11 1521 James, Earl of Desmond, began to “ravage and lay waste ” the barony of Muskery, the territory of Connor Oge Mac Carthy. Yet, in 1516, when the Geraldines went to war with each other, and James laid siege to Loch Gur, he was assisted by the Mac Carthys, and the Four Masters call

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 134

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Muskerry, in 1521, James, Earl of Desmond, began to, in the words of the source, "ravage and lay waste" the barony. This was the territory of Connor Oge MacCarthy. The country was not likely to be quiet while there were MacCarthys and Desmonds keeping up the feud. Yet five years before, in 1516, when the Geraldines went to war with each other and James laid siege to Loch Gur, the MacCarthys had assisted him.

Desmond victorious at Ardfert

Ardfert · town · Kerry

The Earl of Desmond marched to Ardfert where an engagement took place in which the Geraldines were successful against the queen's forces. Ardfert, already the scene of an earlier siege, again became a focal point of military action during the rebellion.

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

Earl of Desmond buried at Dominican Convent, Tralee

Tralee · town · Kerry · 1356

The first Earl of Desmond, who served briefly as viceroy, died in the castle of Dublin in July 1356 but his remains were interred at the family burial place in the Dominican Convent of Tralee.

Read the passage

The earl was released from custody at London in 1349, on the joint bond of his father-in-law, Eaoul, Lord Stafford, Thomas de Berkeley, Richard Talbot, and Reginald de Cobham, each of whom personally undertook to produce him within eight days from the time he might be demanded by the king — no slight act of friendship, the fate of former mainprizes being considered. The earl appears to have ingratiated him¬ self with royalty ; for he was taken under the special protection of the king, and it was decided that all questions in connection with him should be referred to the English Council. He was further promoted to the vice-royalty, a.d. 1355, and during his short term of office gave general, if not particular, satisfaction by hanging some of his own relations who had been found guilty of lawless deeds. He died in the castle of Dublin, July, 1356, but his remains were interred at the family burial place in the Dominican Convent of Tralee.
In 1357 Maurice Oge, or the younger, second earl of Desmond, died suddenly at Castlemaine, and was succeeded in the family honours by his younger brother, John, who died at Youghal in 1369. He was succeeded by his half brother, Gerald, better known as the poet and the hero of romance. From all accounts, it is evident that the earl was in advance of his age in learning, if not in science ; and, as an almost necessary consequence, he attained the reputation of being a magician. His knowledge, however, took a practical, as well as a poetical turn, for we find that he held a prominent place

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 129

As the companion tells it

The road takes you through Tralee in Kerry. In 1349 the first Earl of Desmond was released from custody in London on the joint bond of five men. His father-in-law Lord Stafford, Thomas de Berkeley, Richard Talbot, and Reginald de Cobham each personally undertook to produce him within eight days if the king demanded him. The earl then ingratiated himself with royalty. He was taken under the king's special protection, and all questions concerning him were referred to the English Council. In 1355 he was promoted to the viceroyalty, and during his short term he gave general satisfaction by hanging some of his own relations who had been found guilty of lawless deeds. He died in Dublin Castle in July 1356, but his remains were brought here, to the family burial place in the Dominican Convent of Tralee. In 1357 Maurice the younger, second earl of Desmond, died suddenly at Castlemaine. His brother John succeeded him and died at Youghal in 1369. Then came Gerald, known as the poet and the hero of romance. He was in advance of his age in learning, and as a consequence gained the reputation of being a magician.

Earthquake felt at Cork and Kinsale (1761)

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1761

A shock of earthquake was felt at Cork and Kinsale, especially between the gates of Cork, lasting about a minute and undulating east to west. Six hours later, at low water, the tide at Kinsale suddenly rose about two feet and ebbed away in four minutes with great force, repeated several times.

Read the passage

“ A shock of an earthquake was felt at Cork and Kin sale, especially between the gates of the former town. It continued about a minute, undulating from east to west, and vice versa ; and in six hours after, near low water, the tide rose suddenly at Kinsale, about two feet higher than it was, and ebbed away in the space of four minutes, with great force, which was repeated several times, but the first time it rose highest.
“April 15, 1764. — A great number of fellows were at this time in the habit of assembling in Hammond’s field, near Blarney, every Sunday evening, many of them armed with swords, etc., in open contempt of the magistracy, where they divide themselves into two parties in order of battle, and generally maintained a running fight for several hours, in which some of both parties seldom failed of getting broken heads; from thence some of their leaders, after their evening’s diversion, used to remove the scene of action to the city, and continue rioting the remainder of the night. Before the beginning of the previous war, when knocking down, street robberies, and sometimes murders were so frequent here, that the inhabitants were afraid to stir outside their doors after nightfall, it was in those same fields that the ruffians assembled.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 317

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Kinsale now. In 1761, a shock of earthquake was felt here and at Cork, especially between the gates of Cork. It lasted about a minute, undulating from east to west and back again. Six hours later, near low water, the tide at Kinsale rose suddenly about two feet higher than it had been, then ebbed away in four minutes with great force. This was repeated several times, but the first rise was the highest. The book also records what was happening in this county a few years later. On April 15, 1764, a great number of fellows were in the habit of assembling in Hammond's field, near Blarney, every Sunday evening. Many carried swords, in open contempt of the magistracy. They divided into two parties in order of battle and generally maintained a running fight for several hours, in which some of both parties seldom failed to get broken heads. After their evening's diversion, some of their leaders used to remove the scene of action to the city and continue rioting the rest of the night. Before the previous war, knocking down, street robberies, and sometimes murders were so frequent that inhabitants were afraid to stir outside their doors after nightfall, and it was in those same fields that the ruffians assembled.

First mayor of Cork Richard Morren appointed 1272

Cork · city · Cork · 1272

Richard Morren was appointed the first mayor of Cork in 1272, preceded by John De Spenser as provost in 1199. Morren was succeeded by a long line of 537 magistrates unbroken to 1843, except during ten years of the Commonwealth war.

Read the passage

who was provost in 1199. In 1272 the first mayor, Richard Morren, was appointed ; he has been succeeded by a long line of 537 magistrates, unbroken to the year 1843, save during ten years of the war of the Commonwealth, when the city may be said to have changed its inhabitants. We have one ancient instance on record of royal interference in the choice of a chief magistrate : in the case of John Myne, whose election Edward III., in 1329, informed the citizens he had approved of and commanded them to accept him as their mayor, and deliver to him the desk, with the rolls of the Court of the Hundred, the books of green wax, the seal of the chief magistracy, and the keys and all other things belonging to his office. But the parties addressed seem to have either dis¬ regarded or evaded the mandate, for Myne’s name does not occur in the list of mayors until twenty-four years after. A more modern instance brings us down to the year 1835, when the name of the mayor elect was rejected by the Lord Lieu¬ tenant of Ireland, and a new election had to be made, in which a different person was chosen.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 410

Kanturk Castle ruins and O'Keeffe castle

Kanturk · town · Cork

The ruins of Kanturk Castle consist of a parallelogram 120 by 80 feet flanked by four towers. The building was never finished because Queen Elizabeth commanded its construction stopped, fearing its strength and importance. The O'Keeffes also had a fine castle nearby, now in ruin.

Read the passage

Kanturk, Cean tuirc, the hill of the boar. — The ruins of Kanturk castle are remarkable ; they consisted of a paralellogram 120 feet long by 80 feet wide, flanked with four towers. The building was never finished, for the erection was stopped by the command of Queen Elizabeth, as it promised to be a place of great strength and importance. The O’Keeffes had a fine castle in this neighbourhood, now in ruin.
Killbereherd. — The whole district, says Mr. Brash, abounds with crumleacs, stone circles, pillar stones, raths, and

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 435

Lord Barry's country burned by O'Neil

Barrymore · barony · Cork · 1600

On the first of March the Council of Munster wrote to Ormond that Lord Barry's country had been entirely burned by O'Neil, because Lord Barry had remained loyal to the crown.

Read the passage

a-i such, but matters were changed now, and a decision made in favour of Florence. He now solemnly joined the national cause, and for once flung prudence to the winds. On the first of March the Council of Munster wrote to Ormond that Lord Barry’s country was all burned by O’-Neil.1
The Protestant bishop of Cork, who took a lively interest in the whole business, wrote frequently to the English par¬ liament; but as he generally obtained his reports from traitors, they could scarcely be quite authentic. No doubt, however, popular rumour supplied a good deal that was true, with the usual embellishments. He says :

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 241

Maurice Dubh MacCarthy killed in Muskerry raid

near Muskerry · street · Cork · 1565

In 1565, Maurice Dubh, son of John and grandson of the Earl of Desmond, went on a predatory excursion into Muskerry where the sons of Tiege Mac Carihy overtook and beheaded him. The Four Masters recorded him as 'the firm steel of the Geraldines in the field of danger.'

Read the passage

“ Maurice Duv, the son of John, son of the Earl of Desmond, went upon a predatory excursion into Muskery. The sons of Tiege, son of Connor Oge, son of Tiege Mac Carihy, namely, Dermot and Cormac, overtook him, and beheaded him, though the profit of sparing him would have been better than the victory gained by his death. He who was then slain was the firm steel of the Geraldines in the field of danger, the plunderer of his enemies, and the destroyer of his opponents.
The famous battle of Affane was fought in 1564? i-n which the Earl of Ormond was victorious, and Desmond, when taunted as he was' carried off the field, wounded and a prisoner, made his historically famous speech. “ Where,’ cried the soldiers who bore him, “where is now the great lord of Desmond ?” With grim humour he replied, “ In his proper place— on the necks of the Butlers.” The veracity of this speech as been questioned apparently only because of its extreme cleverness. It does not require very much knowledge of the world, or very brilliant powers of observation, to know that more witty and pointed speeches are made every day in common conversation than are ever recorded in books. It was just such a speech as the haughty Earl of Desmqpd would have been likely to utter, and we, at least, see no reason to doubt that he did use these very words.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 195

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Muskerry, in 1565, Maurice Duv met his end. He was the son of John, son of the Earl of Desmond, and he came into this country on a predatory excursion. The sons of Tiege overtook him. Tiege was the son of Connor Oge, son of Tiege Mac Carihy, and his sons were Dermot and Cormac. They beheaded Maurice, though the profit of sparing him would have been better than the victory gained by his death. He was called the firm steel of the Geraldines in the field of danger, the plunderer of his enemies, and the destroyer of his opponents. The year before, in 1564, the famous battle of Affane had been fought, in which the Earl of Ormond was victorious. Desmond was carried off the field wounded and a prisoner. The soldiers who bore him cried, where is now the great lord of Desmond. He replied, in his proper place, on the necks of the Butlers. The veracity of this speech has been questioned, apparently only because of its extreme cleverness. But it was just such a speech as the haughty Earl of Desmond would have been likely to utter, and there is no reason to doubt that he did use these very words.

O'Brien's attempted conquest of Limerick and Cork, c.1381

Cork · city · Cork · 1381

Around 1381, the Earl of Desmond was sent to assuage the malice of O'Brien, who had endeavoured to make a general conquest of Limerick and Cork. This preceded the later request for Irish fosterage of Desmond's son.

Read the passage

It is curious and instructive to observe that in 13S1, or some years previous to the above demand for Irish fosterage, the Earl of Desmond had-been sent “ to assuage the malice” of O’Brien, who had endeavoured to make a “general conquest” of Limerick, Cork, and

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 142

Plantation of six Ulster counties agreed in 1609

Tyrone · townland · Galway · 1609

The plan of plantation agreed upon in 1609 targeted six counties—Tyrone, Derry, Donegal, Armagh, Fermanagh, and Cavan—parcelling land into portions of 2,000 to 4,000 acres with planters obliged to build bawns and castles. The aim was to expel natives and extirpate Catholic religion.

Read the passage

The north suffered in every way quite as much as the south, and it suffered especially from the plan of plantations which was agreed upon in 1609. It was the old plan which had been attempted before, though with less show of legal arrange¬ ment, but with quite the same proportion of legal iniquity. The simple object was to expel the natives, and to extirpate the Catholic religion. The six counties to be planted were Tyrone, Derry, Donegal, Armagh, Fermanagh, and Cavan. These were parcelled out into portions varying from 2,000 to 4,000 acres, and the planters were obliged to build bawns and castles.
The plan of plantation was simple. It was a practical illustration of the proverb that charity begins at home, omit¬ ting the latter clause, that it should not end there. Chichester

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 284

Plundering of the Deisi to Bealach-Eochaille

Youghal · town · Cork · 872

In 872 Cearbhall plundered the Deisi as far as Bealach-Eochaille, an ancient road extending from Lismore to Youghal. This road was a significant route connecting the two settlements.

Read the passage

Under the year 865 the Four Masters record a great victory over the Danes at Eochaille (Youghal), where they had entrenched themselves about the middle of this century. In 872 we find the plundering of the Deisi by Cearbhall us far as Bealach- Eochaille?
5. Duald Mac Firbis, in the Fragments of Annals, printed for the Irish Arch, and Celtic Society, i860.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 61

Robert Fitz Stephen lands at Bannow, 1169

Bannow · townland · Wexford · 1169

Robert Fitz Stephen landed at Bannow, near Waterford, in May 1169 with three hundred archers, thirty knights, and sixty men-at-arms. A second detachment led by Maurice de Prendergast arrived the following day with additional forces.

Read the passage

There is considerable uncertainty as to the real date and the precise circumstances of Dermod’s arrival in Ireland. According to one account, he returned at the close of the year 1 1 6 1, and concealed himself during the winter in a monastery of Augustinian Canons at Ferns, which he had founded. The two principal authorities are Giraldus Cambrensis and Maurice Regan — the latter was Dermod Mac Murrough’s secretary. According to his account, Robert Fitz Stephen landed at Bannow, near Waterford, in May, 1169, with an army of three hundred archers, thirty knights, and sixty men-at-arms. A second detachment arrived the next day, headed by Maurice de Prendergast, a Welsh gentleman, with ten knights and sixty archers. Dermod at once assembled his men, and joined his allies. He could only muster five hundred followers ; but with their united forces, such as they were, the outlawed king and the needy adventurers, laid siege to the city of Wexford. The brave inhabitants of this mercantile town at once set forth to meet them; but fearing the result, if attacked in open field by well-disciplined troops, they fired the suburbs, and en-
who was mother to Giraldus Cambrensis. This relationship accounts for the absurd eulogiums which he has lavished on the Geraldines. Demetia is the district now called Pembrokeshire, where a colony of Normans established themselves after the Norman Conquest. — See Thierry’s Norman Conquest.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 102

Schull parish overwhelmingly Catholic, no Bible

Skull · town · Cork · 1690–1699

Downes records about four Protestant families and four hundred Catholic families in Schull parish. There was no glebe, no registry-book, nor Bible, nor Common Prayer book in the parish.

Read the passage

lias obliged all the tenants not to admit Papists. In the parish of Skull there are about four Protestant families, and about four hundred Papist families; Daniel Carthy is Popish priest of the eastern part of this parish ; he- has been here ever since before the late troubles. No glebe in this parish, no registry-book, nor Bible, nor common prayer 1 o ik . In Kilmoe there are the ruins of’ a chapel at the westr end of the town dedicated to St. Mullagh. 'Phe church of Kilmoe is dedicated to St. Briana, alias Brandon, whose festival is observed in this parish. There are about nine Protestant families, and two hundred Papists ; Teige Coghlen is Popish priest of Kilmoe, and of the western part, or Skull ; he has been here about eight years. A young Irishman, a Papist, teaches school about the middle of the parish. In all O’Sullivan’s country they observe as a holiday 1 St. Eooane’s Day.’ At Kinneigh a high round tower stands on the south¬ west corner of the church-yard. ’Tis supposed this church was formerly a cathedral. A stone is on the south-west corner of the church of Kinneigh, counted very sacred, which the Irish solemnly swear upon. The church is accounted by the Irish very sacred. There is a tradition that formerly, in this churchyard, there was a well that had great medicinal virtues, and that the concourse of people being very chargeable to the inhabitants they stopped it up. In Murragh, Daniel Hurly, a quiet man, is Popish priest of this and three or four contiguous parishes ; there are more Protestants than Papists ; there was a registry lately bought, and a Bible, and two Common Prayer books. In Desertsurgis there are one hundred and fifty families of Protestants ; no Popish schoolmaster in this parish ; a Bible and Common Prayer book lately bought ; Denis Mahony is Popish priest of this parish.”

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 187

As the companion tells it

As you come through Skull in Cork, here is what Downes found in 1699. Skull parish had about four Protestant families and about four hundred Catholic families. Daniel Carthy was the Popish priest of the eastern part of the parish. He had been there since before the late troubles. There was no glebe in the parish, no registry-book, no Bible, and no Common Prayer book. The imbalance was stark. Four Protestant families against four hundred Catholic ones, and the parish church lacked even the basic books. Downes noted all of this in his survey. In the neighbouring parish of Kilmoe there were ruins of a chapel at the west end of the town, dedicated to St. Mullagh. The church of Kilmoe was dedicated to St. Briana, also called Brandon, whose festival was observed there. Kilmoe had about nine Protestant families and two hundred Catholics. Teige Coghlen was the Popish priest of Kilmoe and of the western part of Skull, and he had been there about eight years. A young Irishman, a Papist, taught school about the middle of that parish.

St. Engus invokes saints buried in Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 793–817

Around the year 800, St. Engus wrote invoking seventeen holy bishops and seven hundred servants of God who rest in Cork with Barri and Nessan, whose names were written in the heavens. This testifies to Cork's early reputation as a sacred burial site.

Read the passage

“ Seventeen holy bishops, and seven hundred favoured servants of God, who rest in Cork with Barri and Nessan, whose names are written in the heavens — all these I invoke into mine aid, through Jesus Christ.”
And he further invokes all the saints who by their prayers and penitential deeds had sanctified that district : —

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 42

As the companion tells it

Coming through Cork, you pass a place of ancient sanctity. Around the year 800, St. Engus invoked seventeen holy bishops and seven hundred servants of God who rest there with Barri and Nessan, whose names he said are written in the heavens. He called on all the saints who by their prayers and penitential deeds had sanctified that district.

Union of the dioceses of Cork and Cloyne, 1430

Cloyne · town · Cork · 1430

Although Pope John XXII sanctioned the union of Cork and Cloyne as early as 1326 due to the poverty of both sees, the union was not effected until 1430 when both sees were simultaneously vacant. Jordan, chancellor of Limerick, was appointed first bishop of the united dioceses by Pope Martin V.

Read the passage

The motive alleged by King Edward III, when soliciting this union, Avas the poverty of both sees. Cork is described as having a revenue of only sixty pounds per annum, and it is added that both sees “ adeo in facultatibus et redditibus suis tenues et exiles sunt, quod earum pracsules singulariter singul* ex eis nequeunt juxta episcopalis status decentiam commode sustentari. Nevertheless, this contemplated union was not carried into effect, and for more than one hundred years we find a distinct and regular succession of bishops in each see. It was only in 1430, when both sees happened to be vacant at the same time, that Jordan, chancellor of Limerick, was appointed by Pope Martin V., first bishop of the united dioceses of Cork and Cloyne.
1 kirty years later intelligence was conveyed to Pope Pius II. that this bishop, weighed down by the burden of eighty 3^ ears, was no longer able to exercise his episcopal functions, the more so as he was subject to frequent infirmities, and suffering from an excessive weakness of sight. Hence, on 27th of May, 1461, we find. William Roche (alias De Rupe) appointed auxiliary bishop of Dr. Jordan, with right of succession to the united sees. In the brief of appointment he is styled “Archdeacon of Cloyne, of noble lineage, distinguished by his zeal, prudence, and learning “ aliarumque virtutum doms quibus eum Altissimus insignivit” (Monument. Vatic., page 430.) This prelate, however, was not pleasing to the aged bishop, whilst he was specially distasteful to the English monarch : and to restore peace to the see, Rome found it necessary, in the following year, to relieve Dr. Roche of the duties of auxiliary bishop.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 172

Viking burning of Cork (Corcach)

Cork · city · Cork

The Chronicum Scotorum records the burning of Ferna and Corcach (Cork) by Gentiles (Vikings), describing attacks on both churches and territories across Ireland. This event is part of the early Viking incursions into Munster.

Read the passage

of Erinn, both churches and territories Burning of Ferna and Corcach by Gentiles.” 6
A host of three score and five ships landed at Dubhlinn oj A th-cliath1 about 8 73, and so rapid were their movements that the annalists describe them as “ great sea- cast floods of foreigners,” 8 and say that there was not “ a point of Erinn without a fleet.”

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 59

Cork Abbey as outpost of Christianization

Dungarvan · town · Waterford

The Abbey of Cork served as an outpost of Christianization, with Brother Garvan giving his name to Dungarvan and Christianity to Waterford. Brother Coleman became missioner bishop and patron saint of Cloyne, and Brother Fachnan of Ross.

Read the passage

“ The Abbey of Cork,” says a recent writer, “ was a sort of outpost in the work of Christianization. Dungarvan owes its name, and Waterford its Christianity, to Brother Garvan, of the Abbey of Cork ; Brother Coleman became the Missioner Bishop and Patron Saint of Cloyne ; Brother Fachnan, of Ross ; Brother Nessan, of Mungret ; another Coleman, of Ossory ; Brother Brian, of St. Brienne, in France ; and in the North of Scotland brave sons of St. Finnbarr gave his patronage to the city of Caithness, and his name to the island of Barra.”3
And, he adds, with a noble eloquence worthy of his ancient name : —

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 51

Munster's new corporations depopulated by taxation

Bandon · town · Cork · 1629

Under Lords Justices Loftus and Cork, the country was found exhausted and very poor due to levies, cattle mortality, corn scarcity, and trade decay. Most new corporations in Munster were almost depopulated, with Dingle, Tralee, Baltimore, Tallagh, Bandon, Ardfert, Lismore, Cloghnakilty, Askeaton, and Dungarvan petitioning for tax relief.

Read the passage

Charles i “ About this time, Lord Falkland was called over to a.d. 1629. England, and the sword committed to the Chancellor Loftus and Earl of Cork as lords justices, who found the country generally exhausted and very poor, occasioned by the above-mentioned levies, the mortality of cattle, scarcity of corn, and decay, of trade. Most of the new corporations in Munster were almost depopulated, particularly Dingle, Tralee, Baltimore, Tallagk, Bandon, Ardfert, Lismore, Cloghnakilty, Askeaton, and Dungarvan, who on the change of governments sent up petitions to be eased of those taxes, setting forth that there were fifty- three corporations in the other provinces that ' only paid with the country at large, upon which the council ordered that they should not for the future pay more than rateable for what lands they had in their liberties ; and the rather, because the charge of the country was by the Earl of
1. This gentleman came to Ireland as plain Mr. Boyle, with but seventeen pounds in his pocket. His antecedents were not respectable. He had been committed to the Marshalsea in London, for stealing, in 1 597*

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 280

Ancient Cork corporation sword lost

Cork · city · Cork

The old corporation sword of Cork, described as the most ancient thing the corporation possessed, was illegally sold by the family of the former sword-bearer. Its current whereabouts are unknown and all members of the family are dead.

Read the passage

I have examined the present city of Cork muniments. They are in the custody of the town clerk, and are kept in a large safe, in a room under the court house. They are very modern, bearing the date 1738, mid are decorated with the royal and city arms, and bear the names of the mayor and sheriffs for that city ; so that they cannot be the insignia mentioned in the old list, which I presume was lost or destroyed during the siege in 1690. The present water-bailifis’ oar is the gift of William and Mary, as you will see by the drawing. The maces were much battered or broken when the present cor¬ poration got them, and they had to b • repaired. Ihe corpora¬ tion sword is quite modern. The old one was sold (most illegally) by the family of the former sword-bearer. It was the most ancient thing the corporation possessed. I remember having seen it, and from the immense handle it had I have no doubt but that it was the one mentioned in our list. No person can tell where it is now. All the family, are dead. 1 suspect it is in London,’’

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 412

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, the city holds a lost piece of its own history. The old corporation sword was the most ancient thing the corporation possessed. The writer of the record examined the present city muniments, kept in a large safe in a room under the court house, and found them very modern, bearing the date 1738. He presumed the older insignia were lost or destroyed during the siege in 1690. The present water-bailiffs' oar was the gift of William and Mary. The maces were much battered and broken when the corporation got them, and had to be repaired. The corporation sword now in use is quite modern. The old one was sold, as the record puts it, most illegally, by the family of the former sword-bearer. The writer remembered having seen it, and from the immense handle it had, he had no doubt it was the one mentioned in the old list. No person can tell where it is now. All the family are dead. He suspected it was in London.

Benedictine Convent of St. John founded 1296

Cork · city · Cork · 1296

In 1296 the founding of the Benedictine Convent of St. John in Cork was subject to a 'Convent Question' referred by Edward I to the Chief Justice of Ireland, who reported it would be for the common good of the whole country. The convent was founded and flourished for centuries at what is now John Street.

Read the passage

££ In the north-west suburb, on the North Mall, where North Abbey-square now stands, was the North Abbey. It was, as you see, actually within arrow-shot of the city walls and North Gate fort. In Elizabeth’s time it also was suppressed. Its rich possessions had been granted to the Skiddys. But there also the Friars somehow kept their ground. Farther on to the east, where St. Mary’s Church now stands, was Shandon Castle. It was perched on the verge of a precipice, over¬ hanging the river. The adjacent lane is still sometimes known as Shandon Castle-lane. There the Barrys once kept splendid state. There also the Judges of Assize held courts of gaol delivery. Nearly at its foot, just where the Kiln river meets the Lee, was the hamlet of Dungarvan. Close by, where Daly’s distillery now stands, was, at the time of which I speak, the Benedictine Convent of St. John. The place is still called John-street. In 1296 the ‘Convent Question’ was raised about the founding of this convent. Edward I., by royal writ, referred to the Chief Justice of Ireland whether a convent should be established here. The Chief Justice reported that such an institution would be ad communem commodum et communem utilitatem totius patriot, and so the convent was founded and flourished for centuries.
£ £ How did the Cork folk live in the sixteenth century ? They

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 272

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, you are near the site of the Benedictine Convent of St. John, founded in 1296. It stood where Daly's distillery now stands, at the place still called John Street, close by where the Kiln river meets the Lee. The hamlet of Dungarvan lay nearby. The North Abbey stood in the north-west suburb, on the North Mall, where North Abbey-square is now, within arrow-shot of the city walls and North Gate fort. It was suppressed in Elizabeth's time and its possessions granted to the Skiddys. Farther east, where St. Mary's Church now stands, was Shandon Castle, perched on the verge of a precipice overhanging the river. The Barrys kept splendid state there, and the Judges of Assize held courts of gaol delivery. In 1296 the question of founding this convent was raised. Edward I, by royal writ, referred the matter to the Chief Justice of Ireland, asking whether a convent should be established here. The Chief Justice reported that such an institution would be, in his words, "ad communem commodum et communem utilitatem totius patrie" — for the common good and common utility of the whole country. And so the convent was founded and flourished for centuries.

Blarney Castle built by Cormac Mac Carthy

near Blarney · townland · Cork

Cormac Mac Carthy, founder of Kilcrea Abbey, also erected Blarney Castle. He was later buried at Kilcrea in 1495.

Read the passage

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

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 143

Bridgetown Abbey founding and ruins

Bridgetown · townland · Cork · 1199–1216

Bridgetown Abbey on the lower Blackwater in the barony of Fermoy, also called Ballynadroghid, was founded in the reign of King John by Alexander Fitzroche. The ruins lie low near the river and remain in wonderful preservation with strong masonry.

Read the passage

Bridgetown Abbey is situated on the lower Blackwater, in the barony of Fermoy ; called also Ballynadroghid, from two bridges which formerly crossed the river. The ruins lie low and near the river. It was founded in the reign of King John by Alexander Fitzroche, and was supplied with friars from the friary of Newtown, in the Co. Meath. In 1375 it was evidently a place of consideration, for the Prior was one of those chosen to proceed on a special mission to the English court. The masonry is strong, and in wonderful preservation. There is a monumental tomb close to the high altar, which has a rude carving of an inverted shield charged with one fish. It is supposed to be the tomb of the founder. The present arms of the Bodies are three fish. A silver pectoral cross was found here some years since. It is described in the Kilkenny Archeological Journal as being of the twelfth or thirteenth century. The cross had been gilt, and was ornamented with four carbuncles, one on each arm, and in the centre a garnet cut in the shape of a parallelogram. The stones were of fine quality, but unpolished.
Blackwater. — This river is called Abhoinn-Mor (the great

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 391

Buttevant name and Kilnamullagh monastery, 1251

Buttevant · town · Cork · 1251

Buttevant derived its name from the war-cry of the Barrys, 'Boutez en avant.' Its ancient name was Kilnamullagh, meaning the Church of the Hillocks or Summits, and the Four Masters record the foundation of a monastery there in 1251.

Read the passage

Buttevant. — It derived its present name from the war-cry of the Barrys— “ Boutez en avanC Its ancient name was Rilnamullagh. The peasantry of the locality understand Kilnamullagh to mean the “ Church of the Curse (malUuht) in connection with which they relate a strange legend; but the explanation is erroneous, and the legend an invention ot later times. In the year 1 2 5 1 the Four Masters, m recordm
the foundation of the monastery calpt &lhna-mullach whic

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 393

Charter for Dominican community near Cork city walls, 1317

Cork · city · Cork · 1317

A charter confirmed by King Edward II was granted in 1317 by Sir Roger de Mortimer in favour of the Dominican community of St. Mary's Abbey in Cork. It provided that custody of the nearest city gate should be committed to trustworthy men and that free passage to and from the city should be given to the friars and other good citizens.

Read the passage

A charter, confirmed by assent of King Edward II. , was granted in 1317, by Sir Boger de Mortimer and his council, in favour of the Dominican community, by which the ward, or custody, of the gate ol the lately erected city walls, nearest to the abbey of St. Mary’s, should be committed to the mayor, bailiffs, and other trusty men, and free passage to and from the city should be given to the friars, and for their sake to other good citizens.
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.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 417

As the companion tells it

As the road passes through Cork, in 1317 a charter confirmed by King Edward II was granted by Sir Roger de Mortimer and his council in favour of the Dominican community. The custody of the gate of the newly erected city walls, nearest to the abbey of St. Mary's, was to be committed to the mayor, bailiffs, and other trusty men. Free passage to and from the city was to be given to the friars, and for their sake to other good citizens. Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March and Ulster, father of the Heir-Presumptive to the crown of England, and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, when he came to the city took up his viceregal 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.

Convent of Tralee and the fourteenth Earl of Desmond

Tralee · town · Kerry · 1536

John, the fourteenth Earl of Desmond, was an aged man and a religious brother of the convent of Tralee. He succeeded to the title after his son Maurice Dubh killed the thirteenth earl, and was buried in the same church around Christmas 1536.

Read the passage

“ 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,
DESMOND FAMILY.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa

As the companion tells it

In Tralee, a convent stood in 1536. John, fourteenth Earl of Desmond, was an aged man and a religious brother of that convent. His son Maurice Dubh killed James, his grandnephew, the thirteenth earl, whereupon John succeeded to the title. He was buried in the same church around Christmas 1536.

Cork's Royal Street in the seventeenth century

Cork · city · Cork · 1600–1699

The main street of Cork, corresponding to modern North and South Main Streets, was called the "Royal-street," "High-street," or "Queen's Majesty's street" in the seventeenth century. North and South Gates with forts and drawbridges stood at either end of it.

Read the passage

“ What was Cork like at this time ? Fortunately, we can tell with some exactness. There is a very interesting map of it in the Pacata Hibernia. You see how accurate is Spencer’s description of Cork as an island fayre, enclosed by ‘ the spreading Lee’ with his ‘ divided flood.’ Also Camden’s con¬ temporary account of Cork, as £ of the forme of an egge, with the river flowmge round about it, and runmnge between, not passable through but by bridges lying out at length, as it were, in one direct broad street,’ That ‘ one direct broad street ’ corresponds with our North and South Main-streets. It was then called the £ Royal-street,’ sometimes £the Highstreet,’ and sometimes ‘the Queen’s Majesty’s street.’ At either end of it you observe the North and South Gates, with their forts and drawbridges. Crossing it at right angles is Castle-street, through which flowed (as beneath it flows still,) a branch of the river — ‘the river flowinge betweene’ which Camden observed. At the intersection of Castle-street and the Main -street, where the Young Men’s Society Hall now stands, you observe the ‘Golden Castle’ of the Roches. There the Exchange was afterwards built, and for more than a century the trade of Cork was transacted. At the other end of Castle-street, where Daunt’s-square now is, you will observe ‘ ye Water Gate,’ and the King and Queen’s Castles. To these castles the street owes its name and the city its arms. Ships used to be brought into Castle-street to be unloaded, as at Amsterdam. The custom-house was there to receive them.
Ihe Royal or (Main) street was also intersected then, as it is now, by narrow lanes. These lanes were the fashionable residences of Cork. In them wealthy merchants had their mansions. You see Skiddy’s Castle in one and Therry’s in

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 271

As the companion tells it

As you come through Cork, you are on what was the main street of the city in the seventeenth century. It was called the Royal-street, sometimes the High-street, and sometimes the Queen's Majesty's street. It corresponds to what are now North and South Main Streets. Cork itself was an island, enclosed by what Spenser called the spreading Lee with his divided flood. Camden described it as of the forme of an egge, with the river flowinge round about it, and runninge between, not passable through but by bridges lying out at length, as it were, in one direct broad street. That one direct broad street was the Royal-street. At either end of it stood the North and South Gates, with their forts and drawbridges. Castle-street crossed it at right angles, and a branch of the river flowed through it, the same branch that still runs beneath it. At the intersection of Castle-street and the main street, where the Young Men's Society Hall later stood, you would have seen the Golden Castle of the Roches. The Exchange was built there afterwards, and for more than a century the trade of Cork was transacted in that spot. At the other end of Castle-street, where Daunt's-square now is, stood the Water Gate and the King and Queen's Castles. To these castles the street owed its name and the city its arms. Ships used to be brought into Castle-street to be unloaded, as at Amsterdam, and the custom-house was there to receive them. The main street was intersected then, as it is now, by narrow lanes. These lanes were the fashionable residences of Cork. Wealthy merchants had their mansions in them. Skiddy's Castle stood in one lane and Therry's in another.

De Burgo lands near Athlone claimed by the crown

Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1635–1640

The crown alleged that the lands and lordships of De Burgo, adjacent to the Castle of Athlone, and indeed the whole remaining province of Connaught, belonged to the king. A compliant jury found for the king, displacing existing proprietors in favour of new landlords.

Read the passage

It was now discovered that the lands and lordships of De Burgo, adjacent to the Castle of Athlone, and, in fact, the whole remaining province, belonged to the crown. It would be useless here to give details of the special pleading on which this statement was founded ; it is an illustration of what I have observed before, that the tenure of the English settler was quite as uncertain as the tenure of the Celt. The jury found for the king ; and as a reward, the foreman, Sir Lucas Dillon, was graciously permitted to retain a portion of his own lands. Lowther, Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, got four shillings in the pound of the first year’s rent raised under the Commission of “ Defective Titles.” The juries of Mayo and Sligo were equally complacent ; but there was stern resistance made in Galway, and stern reprisals were made for the resistance. The jurors were fined ^4,000 each, and were imprisoned, and their estates seized until that sum was paid. The sheriff was fined £ 1 ,000, and being unable to pay that sum, he died in prison. And all this was done with the full knowledge and the entire sanction of the “ royal martyr.”
The country was discontented, and the lord deputy demanded

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 286

Dermod hides in Augustinian monastery at Ferns

Ferns · townland · Wexford · 1161

Dermod MacMurrough is said to have returned to Ireland at the close of 1161 and concealed himself during the winter in a monastery of Augustinian Canons at Ferns, which he had founded. This account is one of several concerning the precise date of his arrival.

Read the passage

There is considerable uncertainty as to the real date and the precise circumstances of Dermod’s arrival in Ireland. According to one account, he returned at the close of the year 1 1 6 1, and concealed himself during the winter in a monastery of Augustinian Canons at Ferns, which he had founded. The two principal authorities are Giraldus Cambrensis and Maurice Regan — the latter was Dermod Mac Murrough’s secretary. According to his account, Robert Fitz Stephen landed at Bannow, near Waterford, in May, 1169, with an army of three hundred archers, thirty knights, and sixty men-at-arms. A second detachment arrived the next day, headed by Maurice de Prendergast, a Welsh gentleman, with ten knights and sixty archers. Dermod at once assembled his men, and joined his allies. He could only muster five hundred followers ; but with their united forces, such as they were, the outlawed king and the needy adventurers, laid siege to the city of Wexford. The brave inhabitants of this mercantile town at once set forth to meet them; but fearing the result, if attacked in open field by well-disciplined troops, they fired the suburbs, and en-
who was mother to Giraldus Cambrensis. This relationship accounts for the absurd eulogiums which he has lavished on the Geraldines. Demetia is the district now called Pembrokeshire, where a colony of Normans established themselves after the Norman Conquest. — See Thierry’s Norman Conquest.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 102

Desmond raises his standard at Ballyhoura

Ballyhoura · townland · Cork · 1579

After refusing to submit to the queen's authority with a promise of pardon, the Earl of Desmond was proclaimed a traitor and went into open rebellion, setting up his standard at Ballyhoura before proceeding to Youghal.

Read the passage

In 1579, Sir W. Pelham, the new lord justice, tried to induce the Earl of Desmond to submit to the queen’s authority with a promise of pardon, and as he refused he was proclaimed a traitor and went into open rebellion, setting up his standard at Ballyhowra. He then proceeded to Youghal, where he met
with great success.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 223

Desmond's body buried at Tralee

Tralee · town · Kerry · 1467

After his execution at Drogheda, the body of Thomas, Earl of Desmond was conveyed to Traigh-Li (Tralee) and interred in the burial place of his predecessors and ancestors with great honour and veneration.

Read the passage

8. The Four Masters record his execution thus : — Thomas, Earl of Desmond, the son of James, son of Garrell, who had been Lord Justice of Ireland, the most illustrious of his tribe in Ireland in his time, for his comeliness and statue, for his hospitality and chivalry, his charity and humanity to the poor and the indigent of the Lord, his boun¬ teousness in bestowing jewels and riches on the laity, the clergy, and the poets, and his suppression of theft and immorality, went to Drogheda to meet the English Lord Justice and the other English of Meath. These acted treacherously by him, and without any crime [on his part] they beheaded him ; the greater number of men of Ireland were grieved at the news of it. His body was afterwards conveyed to Traigh-Li (Tialee), and interred in the burial place of his predecessors and ancestors with great( honour and veneration.”
The Annals of Ross gives the dates of Desmond’s execution as 14th July, 1467, and say it took place the second hour after noon. According to Dowling (. Annals Irish Arch. Sac., 1849), the earl’s father was alive at the time of his execution. ITe says that Earl Thomas, “ usurping upon his father, and going to Tredaly (Drogheda), he gave him his curse, and said he shall have an ill end.” From an unpublished statute of 1464 we find that James Doheny, a merchant of Drogheda, went to England and accused the earl ot extorting coigne and livery, and of being “of counsel and support to several rebels and traitors. ”

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 133

As the companion tells it

Coming up on Tralee now. In 1467, this town received the body of Thomas, Earl of Desmond, after his execution at Drogheda. The Four Masters record that Thomas was the son of James, son of Garrell, and had been Lord Justice of Ireland. They call him the most illustrious of his tribe in Ireland in his time, for his comeliness and stature, for his hospitality and chivalry, his charity and humanity to the poor and indigent, his bounteousness in bestowing jewels and riches on the laity, the clergy, and the poets, and his suppression of theft and immorality. He went to Drogheda to meet the English Lord Justice and the other English of Meath. They acted treacherously by him, and without any crime on his part they beheaded him. The greater number of the men of Ireland were grieved at the news of it. The Annals of Ross give the date as the 14th of July, 1467, the second hour after noon. His body was afterwards conveyed to this town and interred in the burial place of his predecessors and ancestors with great honour and veneration. Dowling says the earl's father was alive at the time of his execution, that Earl Thomas, "usurping upon his father, and going to Tredaly, he gave him his curse, and said he shall have an ill end." An unpublished statute of 1464 records that James Doheny, a merchant of Drogheda, went to England and accused the earl of extorting coigne and livery, and of being "of counsel and support to several rebels and traitors."

Dingle threatened with destruction

Dingle · town · Kerry · 1579

Drury reported a general determination among the rebels to raze the town of Dingle lest Ormond should possess it and make it their staple. He attempted to prevent this and to surprise the town by sea.

Read the passage

“ Ytte Earl of Desmond and his brother camp within a mile of each other ; meet together in, secret resorte, as some thinke, of the principals, and noe enmitie between their people. Some of the castbls whereof the earl offered soldiers to reside for this service are since rased. There is, general determination to rase the town of Dingell, lest Ormond should possess it, and make their staple there, I do alle I can to Prevent it, and to surprise the town by sea. ’
Sir John Desmond had encamped at Slieve Lougher, and at Gort-na- Tiobrad , now Springfield, in the county of Lime¬ rick : he defeated the W iustice, and slew three of his

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 211

As the companion tells it

Coming through Dingle, this town was threatened with destruction in 1579. The Earl of Desmond and his brother camped within a mile of each other, meeting in secret, with no enmity between their people. Some castles the earl offered soldiers to reside in for this service had since been razed. There was a general determination to raze the town lest Ormond should possess it and make their staple there. Drury did all he could to prevent it and to surprise the town by sea. Sir John Desmond had encamped at Slieve Lougher and at Gort-na-Tiobrad, now Springfield, in the county of Limerick. He defeated the Justice and slew three of his.

Earl Gerald sits as Lord of Desmond in Dublin parliament, 1559

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1559

The true heir, Thomas Ruagh, vainly attempted to assert his rights with the assistance of the Lord Kerry and others, but might triumphed over right. Earl Gerald sat as Lord of Desmond in a parliament held in Dublin in 1559.

Read the passage

The new earl was received with great condescension by the English king, who was anxious to keep peace in Ireland until his continental affairs were more settled. Desmond was made Lord High Treasurer of Ireland, which office he held to the end of the reign of Queen Mary ; and in July, 1 543, the Lord Deputy, St. Leger, was authorized to make him a grant, by patent, of a house and parcel of land near Dublin, for the keeping of his horses and train when he attended the parlia¬ ment or council, and for this purpose St. Mary’s Abbey was bestowed upon him. In 1550 a great court was held in Limerick, to which O’Carroll repaired, under the safe pro¬ tection of the earl, the mayor of Limerick, and the English and Irish who were present at that court. He was commis¬ sioned to continue the parliament, November 1, 1557, but he died the following year at Askeaton. He was succeeded by Gerald, his eldest son by his second wife. The true heir vainly attempted to assert his rights, but although he had the assistance of the Lord Kerry and others, might triumphed over right, and Earl Gerald sat as Lord of Desmond in a parliament held in Dublin, a.d. 1 5 59.1
1. The exact amount of the tribute imposed upon Mac Carthy More by the Earl of Desmond has not been ascertained. Dr. O’Donovan quotes the following from the author of Carbritz Notitia, who wrote in 1686 : —

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 136

Edward II charter bans strangers bearing arms in Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1318

In 1318 Edward II confirmed all previous Cork charters, adding the provision that no stranger, except the king's servants, should bear arms in the city. The charter was witnessed by Roger de Mortimer, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, at Clonmel.

Read the passage

7. Smith says in 1610 the judges gave it as their opinion that in Cork, by the charter and act of parliament, the king was to have the great and petty customs of all strangers, but that the citizens were to be discharged of the great customs. All charters granting customs between the last year of Edward I. and the first of Henry VII. are void by the Act of Exemption, Jo Henry VII., with a saving of Waterford only. The above charter is confirmed by that of King Edward I., dated June 12, at Northampton, the 19th of his reign, anno. 1291, which abolishes a custom that obliged the mayors to go to Dublin to be sworn, and allows the mayor to be sworn before the old one, or before the king’s judges, if resident in Cork. Exempts the citizens from being obliged to attend on juries out of the city. Grants to the mayors and bailiffs the assize of bread, all weights and measures, with the office of clerk of the market, and all other privileges mentioned in the charter of Henry III. The witnesses to this charter are William, of Canterbury, Primate of all England ; John, Bishop of Ely ; the king’s chancellor ; John, Bishop of Norwich ; Richard, Bishop of London ; Adam de Valentia, Count de Pembroke, Humfrid de Bohun, Count de Hereford and Essex, Hugon le Despenser, Seniore Roger de Mortuomari de Wigmore, Bartholomew de Badlesmere, etc. The same charter is literally repeated with that of King Henry III., in a new charter, granted by King Edward II. the 20th of January, 1318, and the 12th of his reign; adding that no stranger, except the king’s servants, shall bear arms in the city. Witness, Roger de Mortimer, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, at Clonmel, the said date. The above charters were again confirmed by a new one of 'King Edward III., dated at Woodstock, July 15th, the 4th year of his reign, 1330, witnessed by H., Bishop of Lincoln; the king’s chancellor, John de Eltham, Earl of Clonmel ; the king’s brother, John de Warren, Earl of Surrey ; Roger de Mortuomari, Earl of March ; Oliver de Ingham, John Maltravers, the seneschal of the king’s house, and others. The same king granted to the city another charter the following year, dated at Westminster the 12th of February, reciting his having seen letters patent which Edward, late King of England, his royal father, had granted to this city at the instance of Roger Mortimer, Earl of March, then Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, which letters patent, etc., he now confirms to the citizens afore¬ said. Witnesses the same as before.

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 146

As the companion tells it

Coming through Cork, you are in a city whose charters reach back centuries. In 1318, on the 20th of January, Edward II granted a new charter to the city, repeating the old one of Henry III, and adding one provision: no stranger, except the king's servants, shall bear arms in the city. The charter was witnessed by Roger de Mortimer, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, at Clonmel. Before that, Edward I had confirmed Cork's charters on the 12th of June, 1291, at Northampton, in the 19th year of his reign. That charter abolished a custom that obliged Cork's mayors to travel to Dublin to be sworn in, allowing them instead to be sworn before the old mayor, or before the king's judges if resident in Cork. It exempted the citizens from attending juries outside the city, and granted the mayors and bailiffs the assize of bread, all weights and measures, and the office of clerk of the market. After Edward II's charter, Edward III confirmed the city's charters again on the 15th of July, 1330, at Woodstock, in the 4th year of his reign. The following year, the 12th of February, the same king granted another charter at Westminster, confirming letters patent that his father had granted at the instance of Roger Mortimer, Earl of March, then Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.

Excursion to Aghadoe from Cork, 1178

Aghadoe · parish · Kerry · 1178

A party from the besieging forces at Cork made an excursion to Aghadoe, where they remained two days and two nights before returning to Cork. They then went towards Waterford but the Irish gathered against them at the hill of Lismore.

Read the passage

“ A. I). 1 1 78. Corke was plundered by the grandson of Donnell, who was the grandson of Carthach, and the Green Galls. Corke was besieged by Milo Cogan and Fitz Stephen. A party of their people made an excursion to Aghadoe, where they remained two days and two nights, and then returned again to Cork. After this they went towards Waterford, but the Irish gathered against them at the hill of Lismore, and nearly killed them all.”
Dr. O’Brien, in his History of the House of O'Briens , published by Yallancey, in his own name, in the first volume of the Collectanea de Rebus Hibernicus , thus very correctly paraphrases this passage : —

Internet Archive historyofcitycou0000cusa, Chapter 110

A history of the city and county of Cork

The stories, best first

Cork sword and maces lost in 1690 siege

Countess of Desmond submits at Clonmel

Danes plunder Cloyne and kill its bishops

Desmond sets up camp at Ballyhourra

Earl of Kildare garrisons Cork for Perkin Warbeck's support

First charter granted to Cork City under Henry II

Florence MacCarthy's camp near Kinsale receives supplies

Franciscan convent of Buttevant, 1251

French fleet mistook Dursey for Mizen Head

Gill Abbey ruins and St. Patrick's cave near Cork

Gravel at 2,050 feet on Mullaghanish Mountain

Kerry granted to Raymond le Gros, origin of Fitzmaurice family

Mutineers escape from Cork bridewell

Ploughshares placed in Cork streets as protest

Plundering raid from Muskerry to Iveragh

Poor cabin dwellers offer provisions to marching soldiers

Siege and capture of Kincurran

Thomas Fitzmaurice sits in Dublin parliament, 1295

Vicar-Apostolic's letter from Waterford on Catholic suffering

William Roche, Archdeacon of Cloyne, appointed auxiliary bishop

Zouch's surprise attack on Castlemaine

1737 Pamphlet on Cork Corporation Disputes

Capp of Maintenance lost on surrender of Cork

Castle of Kilfeakle and church of Saint Patrick's tooth

Charleville charter school and Barry Yelverton

Danes repulsed at Loch Lein (Killarney)

Desmond ravages barony of Muskery

Desmond victorious at Ardfert

Earl of Desmond buried at Dominican Convent, Tralee

Earthquake felt at Cork and Kinsale (1761)

First mayor of Cork Richard Morren appointed 1272

Kanturk Castle ruins and O'Keeffe castle

Lord Barry's country burned by O'Neil

Maurice Dubh MacCarthy killed in Muskerry raid

O'Brien's attempted conquest of Limerick and Cork, c.1381

Plantation of six Ulster counties agreed in 1609

Plundering of the Deisi to Bealach-Eochaille

Robert Fitz Stephen lands at Bannow, 1169

Schull parish overwhelmingly Catholic, no Bible

St. Engus invokes saints buried in Cork

Union of the dioceses of Cork and Cloyne, 1430

Viking burning of Cork (Corcach)

Cork Abbey as outpost of Christianization

Munster's new corporations depopulated by taxation

Ancient Cork corporation sword lost

Benedictine Convent of St. John founded 1296

Blarney Castle built by Cormac Mac Carthy

Bridgetown Abbey founding and ruins

Buttevant name and Kilnamullagh monastery, 1251

Charter for Dominican community near Cork city walls, 1317

Convent of Tralee and the fourteenth Earl of Desmond

Cork's Royal Street in the seventeenth century

De Burgo lands near Athlone claimed by the crown

Dermod hides in Augustinian monastery at Ferns

Desmond raises his standard at Ballyhoura

Desmond's body buried at Tralee

Dingle threatened with destruction

Earl Gerald sits as Lord of Desmond in Dublin parliament, 1559

Edward II charter bans strangers bearing arms in Cork

Excursion to Aghadoe from Cork, 1178