Name: History of Clare and the Dalcassian clans of Tipperary, Limerick, and Galway ... with an ancient and a modern map
Author: P. (Patrick) White

Siege of O'Donnell's fortress of Ballyshannon

Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1597

Sir Conyers Clifford led a large force including the Earl of Thomond and Baron of Inchiquin against O'Donnell at Ballyshannon. After a failed three-day bombardment, the besiegers became besieged and were routed while retreating across the river Erne.

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In order to divide the Northern forces, he had issued instructions to Sir Conyers Clifford, the Governor of Connaught, to attack, with all the forces he could muster from that province and Clare, O'Donnell at Ballyshannon. The Earl of Thomond, the Baron of Inchiquin, the Earl of Clanrickard, the Baron of Dunkellin, and a large following of the Irish and English, met him by appointment at the monastery of Boyle on the 24th of July. A proud sight for the English invader ! Irishmen against Irishmen once more. Trusting in their numbers, their discipline, and their superior equipment, they hastened to the attack. O'Donnell stoutly resisted their crossing the river Erne, but had to fall back upon his fortress of Ballyshannon. In the passage, the Baron of Inchiquin fell while leading on his troops. Now began the real struggle. A ship sent round from Galway landed some heavy ordnance for the assault on the castle. For three days it played on the stout walls without effect, and then the scene changed. The besieged became the besiegers. Hemmed in between the fortress and the river, the principal ford of wdiich was covered by the castle, and in want of the supplies which O'Donnell took good care to cut off, the Governor found himself and his army in a most critical position. After long deliberation, retreat was decided on. In the early morning they began the recrossing of the river. > As soon as their design was perceived, the exulting Northerns fell upon their rear, and turned their flight into a rout. They had to abandon their cannon and whatever else would impede their retreat. O'Donnell pursued them across the river, and had the proud satisfaction of seeing the enemy, after suffering great loss, scattered before him. It was some consolation for the treachery of his captain, and

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 111

As the companion tells it

You're coming into Ballyshannon, the town in Donegal where O'Donnell's fortress stood in 1597. Sir Conyers Clifford, the Governor of Connaught, was ordered to divide the Northern forces by attacking O'Donnell here. He gathered a large following of Irish and English, meeting by appointment at the monastery of Boyle on the 24th of July. The Earl of Thomond, the Baron of Inchiquin, the Earl of Clanrickard, and the Baron of Dunkellin all joined him. Irishmen against Irishmen once more. They trusted in their numbers, their discipline, and their superior equipment, and hastened to the attack. O'Donnell stoutly resisted their crossing of the river Erne but had to fall back upon his fortress of Ballyshannon. In the passage, the Baron of Inchiquin fell while leading on his troops. A ship sent round from Galway landed some heavy ordnance for the assault on the castle. For three days it played on the stout walls without effect. Then the scene changed. The besieged became the besiegers. Hemmed in between the fortress and the river, the principal ford of which was covered by the castle, and in want of the supplies which O'Donnell took good care to cut off, the Governor found himself and his army in a most critical position. After long deliberation, retreat was decided on. In the early morning they began the recrossing of the river. As soon as their design was perceived, the exulting Northerns fell upon their rear and turned their flight into a rout. They had to abandon their cannon and whatever else would impede their retreat. O'Donnell pursued them across the river, and had the proud satisfaction of seeing the enemy, after suffering great loss, scattered before him. It was some consolation for the treachery of his captain.

Sir John Davies describes Clare's freeholders and Protestant enforcement

near Clare · population centre · Clare · 1606

Sir John Davies, after a judicial circuit through Clare, described the county's inhabitants as speaking good English despite their Irish appearance, and named the O'Briens, MacNamaras and O'Cluncys as the best freeholders, hoping the Earl of Thomond's example would civilise the people.

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The same report gives us a glimpse into the inner life of the Clare of that day. Though from an unfriendly pen, it is well worth quoting. " In the county of Clare, which contains all Thomond, where I beheld the appearance and fashion of the people, I would," he writes, " I had been in Ulster again ; for these are as mere Irish as they, and in their outward form not unlike them ; but when we came to despatch the business, we found that many of them spake good English and understood the course of our proceedings well. For the justices of Munster were wont ever to visit this country, both before my Lord of Thomond had the particular government thereof and sithence. After the despatch of the gaol, which contained no extraordinary malefactors, our principal labours did consist in establishing sundry possessions of freeholders in that county, which had been disturbed in the time of the rebellion, and had not been settled sithence. The best freeholders, next to the O'Briens, are the MacNamaias and the O'Lancey, (O'Cluncys), the chief of which families appeared in a civil
1 Hibernia Dominicana. ^ C. S. P. Ireland, p. 467, 1603-9.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 119

St Colman MacDuagh's hermitage and the Pass of the Dishes

Burren · townland · Clare

St. Colman MacDuagh lived a lonely hermit's life for years in a secluded Burren valley until his relative Guaire, King of Connaught, persuaded him to return to public ministry. A curiously marked rocky road to his cell, called the 'Pass of the Dishes', recalls the legend of a banquet carried to the famishing saint and his monks.

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^ A curiously-marked rocky road leading to his cell gave occasion to the name " Pass of the Dishes." A banquet, prepared far off, was said to have been carried over it to the famishing Saint and monks who came to visit him.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 6

Surrender of Clarecastle and Carrigaholt to Ludlow

near Clarecastle · population centre · Clare · 1651

Following the fall of Limerick, the only two remaining garrisoned strongholds for the Irish cause in Clare, Clarecastle and Carrigaholt, surrendered to Ludlow with scarcely any resistance.

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With the fall of Limerick on the 27th of October 1651, the resistance to the Cromwellian invasion of Clare and Connaught practically collapsed. Ludlow turned his attention to the only two strongholds in Clare still garrisoned for the Irish and Catholic cause — Clarecastle and Carrigaholt. So disheartened were their defenders, that, when summoned by him, they made scarcely any show of resistance. Both surrendered, and then Clare lay at the feet of the invader. As evidence of the terror generally felt, it may be mentioned that the notorious Mauria Ehua, daughter of MacMahon of Clonderalaw and wife of Conor O'Brien of Leimaneigh, who fell at Inchicronan, when her castle was seized on and garrisoned by Ludlow,^ rode down to Limerick after him, and offered herself, as token of complete submission, in marriage to any officer selected by him. The curious offer was accepted, and in this way a Colonel Cooper came to be installed at Leimaneigh, as the successor of the unfortunate Conor O'Brien. There are those who think, judging from what is traditionally told of Mauria Ehua's character, that the property was dearly purchased.
■■^ On the 26th of November 1651, just four weeks to a clay.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 136

The oratories of Bishop's Island near Kilkee

near Bishop's Island · townland · Clare

Two oratories still standing on Bishop's Island near Kilkee are supposed to have been built by St Senan; the site's name, 'the Island of the Hungry or Fasting Bishop,' reflects local tradition of his ascetic retreats there.

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We have no account of when or by whom he was raised to episcopal dignity. If what is told of his having given the veil to a daughter of the chief of Hy Figcinte while he was in Inislunga be true, it is likely that he had been a bishop for a considerable time before his arrival in Iniscatha. Whether this be so or not, it is certain that while there he exercised episcopal functions, making it the seat of a diocese which extended for miles on both sides of the Shannon as far as Limerick, and of which much will be heard later on in these pages. The two oratories still standing, defiant of time and storm, on Bishop's Island, near Kilkee, are supposed to have
have sent him a vestment, setting it afloat down the river in a basket. Hence the mistake about St. Brigid of Kildare sending one round by the sea.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Bishop's Island, two oratories still stand, defiant of time and storm. They are supposed to have been built by St Senan, who exercised episcopal functions from nearby Iniscatha, making it the seat of a diocese that extended for miles on both sides of the Shannon as far as Limerick. The island's name, the Island of the Hungry or Fasting Bishop, carries the local tradition of his ascetic retreats here. No account survives of when or by whom he was raised to episcopal dignity, though it is said he gave the veil to a daughter of the chief of Hy Figcinte while he was in Inislunga.

The Tuameens near Tulla

Kiltannon · electoral division · Clare

A stream from the Glendree Hills flows underground for a considerable distance near an abandoned mine at Kiltannon, forming natural limestone arches resembling the work of man. The site, called 'the Tuameens', is compared to the better-known Bridges of Ross.

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Close to one of those abandoned mines, within about two miles of Tulla, on the Molony property at Kiltannon, is one of those freaks of nature which, if found say in England, Scotland, or Wales, would attract crowds of visitors, and mayhap inspire the poet's pen and the painter's pencil, but which is scarcely ever noticed or heard of. It is called " the Tuameens." A small stream coming down from the Glendree Hills has made itself a subterraneous passage for a considerable distance, till it emerges again and pursues its even course towards the Shannon. There are at intervals openings from above, overhung and festooned with honeysuckle and other beautiful undergrowth, through which the buried stream is easily reached. With some little difficulty, if the river be not swollen with late rains, the whole way underground may be traversed. It is with no little feeling of wonder and almost of awe that the eye travels over the dark winding river, having on both sides solid, massive lines of rock, apparently chiselled by the hand of man, but really chiselled by the slow yet ceaseless drip of water from above, and serving as buttresses for the splendid arches of limestone which bridge the sunken stream. Here, as at the better known Bridges of Koss, near Loop Head, nature looks not unlike art as it comes from the brain and hand of man.
This central plain was to Clare on a small scale what Lombardy was to Italy — the scene of almost perpetual conflict. Were there no written records testifying to this fact, the numerous castles scattered through every parish, still grim and defiant-looking even in their ruins, are only too eloquent on this subject. But it was not all war. The many abbeys and churches yet standing in all parts of Clare, though partly demolished and wholly desecrated, bear testimony to the strong faith and practical piety of its people in

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 1

William Culliner of Bunratty's shoemaker deposition

near Bunratty · parish · Clare · 1642

William Culliner, a shoemaker and self-described British Protestant of the Barony of Bunratty, swore he was despoiled of goods worth £132 8s, an amount the author notes as implausibly large for a shoemaker of the time.

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Again, we find a good strong oath recorded (788) of William Culliner, Barony of Bunratty, shoemaker and British Protestant — none of your mere Irish, He is robbed and despoiled to the value of £132, 8s. Shoemaking must have been a profitable business in the Clare of that day. I fear no one with such a hoard could be found in Bunratty now. He carefully adds on the 8s., to save his conscience of course, and then " further saith " — But this must be passed over ; it is too hotly spiced for present consumption. He comes down, too, on some who relapsed back into Papistry, and sets the Puritan zealots on their track.
Anthony Heathcote was a sorely-tried man. If his story, on oath, can be credited, he had amassed among the wild savages of Clare property to the value of £3278, or say from £15,000 to £30,000 of our money, and all this was swept away from him. But the worst treated man of the whole lot was Gregory Hickman of Barn tick, in the parish of Clare, a British Protestant. He enters into a long description of his woes, all on oath. The wife of O'Hehir of Cahir came with her servants and took away his poultry, household stuff, furniture, worth at least £10, not even leaving him his own brass kettles. O'Brien of Ballymacooda threshed his corn under his nose. O'Grady Pihua drove away his cattle. His wool was plundered from him. His servants were either murdered, or else stripped naked and

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 129

William's army encamped at Singland during siege of Limerick

Singland · townland · Limerick · 1690

William's army lay entrenched at Singland, on the slope of land north of Limerick city, near the Black Battery, from which the English advanced with earthworks and cannonade against the city walls.

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It is not within the scope of the present work to dwell at any length on this, or the following, siege of Limerick. Those who desire detailed accounts will find them in Lenihan's painstaking and sympathetic History of Limerick. William's army lay entrenched at Singland, around the slope of land a little north of the city, and not far from that interesting relic, the portion of the Black Battery now standing near St. John's Cathedral. From here he advanced closer and closer, by throwing up earthworks almost to the very walls, and keeping up a continuous cannonade from his field-j)ieces. Here, again, as at the Boyne, according to Dean Story, who vouches for it as having on both occasions occurred under his own eyes, a well-directed cannon-ball grazed William, who was himself fearlessly directing the operations. Had he been killed on either occasion, there was an end to the war, for some time at least ; and English as well as Irish history should have taken a very different turn. The good Dean believed that his hero, the pious William, was under the special protection of Divine Providence. It is no easy matter now to reconcile this with the fact of his relations with Barbara Villiers, and their illegitimate son, raised by him to a foremost place among the English nobility.
The guns did their work well, in spite of the constant and well-directed fire from the walls. A breach was effected near the Black Battery, and through this breach, on the morning of the 27th of August, the picked men of William's army stormed the city. Large bodies succeeded in forcing their way through the breach, and then took place the handto-hand fight inside the walls, which has been, and will be to all time, the pride and the glory of the citizens of Limerick. It is beyond question that not only the men, but the women also of the old city by the Shannon, threw themselves, along with the garrison, on the invaders. Every kind of weapon was grasped. Even stones did their work,

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 148

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, William's army lay entrenched in 1690, on the slope of land north of Limerick city, close to what was called the Black Battery, the remains of which still stand near St. John's Cathedral. From this position William advanced closer and closer to the city, throwing up earthworks almost to the very walls and keeping up a continuous cannonade from his field pieces. As at the Boyne, a well-directed cannon-ball grazed William himself, who was fearlessly directing the operations. Dean Story vouched for this, saying he saw it happen on both occasions with his own eyes. Had William been killed on either occasion, there was an end to the war, for some time at least, and English as well as Irish history should have taken a very different turn. The good Dean believed his hero, the pious William, was under the special protection of Divine Providence, a view hard to reconcile with his relations with Barbara Villiers and their illegitimate son, whom William raised to a foremost place among the English nobility. The guns did their work well, in spite of constant and well-directed fire from the walls. A breach was effected near the Black Battery, and through this breach, on the morning of the 27th of August, the picked men of William's army stormed the city. Large bodies succeeded in forcing their way through, and then came the hand-to-hand fight inside the walls. Not only the men but the women of the old city by the Shannon threw themselves, along with the garrison, on the invaders. Every kind of weapon was grasped. Even stones did their work.

Kilrush bench warns against aiding Fenian fugitives

Kilrush · town · Clare · 1867

At Kilrush, during one of the Fenian trials, the bench warned that anyone giving aid or countenance to fugitives would be as guilty in the eye of the law as those who had risen in arms.

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The break-up of Fenianism produced a crop of informers. The Habeas Corpus Act being suspended, the jails were soon filled, and it was found easy to excite suspicion of each other among the prisoners. Clare was, however, remarkably steadfast in this respect. Only two persons — and these of indifferent character — could be got to turn upon their comrades. In the western district, where the trouble was greatest, not even one could be induced to give information of any kind. The writer knew many poor persons who had it in their power to secure money by telling privately where the fugitives were being sheltered, and who scorned to do so. Instead of this, they helped them in every way to escape ; and at no small risk to themselves, for they also had been warned from the bench at Kilrush, on the occasion of one of the trials, that they and all such evil-doers as would give them aid or countenance would be as guilty in the eye of the law as the persons who actually rose up in arms.
The events in the county still to be recorded are of such recent date that a bare recital will be the most appropriate. These late years were indeed eventful in giving much food for angry controversy, the end of which is not yet reached.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 194

As the companion tells it

As you come through Kilrush in Clare, 1867 was the year of the Fenian trials. The Habeas Corpus Act had been suspended, and the jails were soon filled. It was found easy to excite suspicion among the prisoners, and the break-up of Fenianism produced its crop of informers. But Clare was remarkably steadfast. Only two persons, and these of indifferent character, could be got to turn upon their comrades. In the western district, where the trouble was greatest, not even one could be induced to give information of any kind. The writer knew many poor persons who had it in their power to secure money by telling privately where the fugitives were being sheltered, and who scorned to do so. Instead, they helped them in every way to escape, and at no small risk to themselves. For they had been warned from the bench, on the occasion of one of the trials, that they and all who would give aid or countenance to the fugitives would be "as guilty in the eye of the law as the persons who actually rose up in arms."

Tradition of the sunken land between Baltard and Hag's Head

near Hag's Head · promontory · Clare

An earthquake or great convulsion of nature is said to have engulfed the land between Baltard and Hag's Head, leaving only Iniscuireach and its rocky neighbours visible above the waves. This tradition explains the dangerous submerged reefs that made navigation so difficult along the West Clare coast.

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earthquake ; and thus well - authenticated history gives support to the tradition handed down among the people of West Clare, that in one of those awful convulsions of nature the whole coast-line was changed. The land lying between Baltard and Hag's Head, with all its inhabitants, was engulfed in the ocean ; leaving only Iniscuireach, with its neighbouring little rocky islands, visible, and making navigation along the submerged sunken reefs so ditficult and so dangerous. Though the account of this disastrous event marks the first notable glimpse — after a long interval, thanks to the destruction by Dane and Saxon of Irish records — into Clare life, yet, before the present chapter closes, we will find the country of the Dal-Cas leaping out into the light of authentic history, taking henceforth a foremost and a justly famous part in Irish affairs.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 26

Battle of Kilbarron near Feakle

Kilbarron · townland · Clare

The Dalcassian clans intercepted an English force under MacMaurice Fitzgerald at Kilbarron in the parish of Feakle, routing them with great loss; the Four Masters note the death of the intruded parson of Ardrahan among the slain.

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The disunion among the Irish princes soon became known. The English of South Munster took advantage of it. Marching hastily, under command of MacMaurice Fitzgerald, they crossed the Shannon, and, keeping northwards to effect a junction with those of Connaught, they pushed their way towards the centre of Clare. The Dalcassian clans, hastily summoned together by Conor O'Brien, intercepted them at Kilbarron, in the parish of Feakle, and, falling upon them with all the energy of men defending their threatened homesteads, put them to flight with great loss. Among the slain the Four Masters note specially the intruded parish priest, or parson, of Ardrahan. The priest who takes the sword deserves above all others to die by the sword. In return for this attack, the Dalcassians, led on by Brian Rua O'Brien, seized and demolished, after killing every man of the garrison, the castle erected by the English at Castleconnell.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 68

Battle of Knocklong: Cormac's Defeat by the Munster Men

Knocklong · town · Limerick · 241

At Knocklong in County Limerick, King Cormac suffered a severe defeat at the hands of the Munster men during the prolonged war between Munster and the High King. Cormac was pursued into Ossory and forced to give hostages and make reparation for injuries inflicted on Munster.

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Between these kings, cousins by blood, an almost continual war raged, no less than nine battles being fought, as the Four Masters relate, in one year alone, a.d. 241. The most remarkable of these was that fought at Knocklong, in the county of Limerick, when Cormac suffered a severe defeat at the hands of the Munster men, and, having been pursued into Ossory, was compelled to deliver hostages in pledge of his undertaking to make reparation for the many injuries he had inflicted on Munster. The victorious Fiacha, having died, was succeeded on the throne of Munster, on the alternative plan, by Mogh Corb, son of Cormac Cas, of whom mention has been made above, while Cormac was succeeded on the throne of Ireland by Cairbre Liffeachair. Between these also the old unnatural hostility was maintained, till, in the year a.d. 284, and in the seventeenth year of his reign, Cairbre was killed at the battle of Gabhra, in Meath, where Mogh Corb and the Munster men again defeated the monarch of Ireland. While Mogh Corb continued his reign over Munster, the eldest son of Cairbre mounted his father's throne, and reigned for thirty-seven years, till he was slain by his nephews, the three Collas, sons of his brother Eoghy.
The eldest of these usurped the throne of Ireland, beginning his reign about a.d. 322, but in turn he and his brothers were defeated, a.d. 326, and banished into Scotland, with their followers, by Muireach Tireach, the son of Fiacha, whom they had foully slain. This monarch ruled for thirty years, till he fell in battle with Caelvah, the King of Ulster,^ in 356, who, again, was slain by Eoghy Moyveon, son of Muireach. This king reigned over all Ireland for about eight years, and died at the Plain of Tara, a.d. 365, which was then and for the two subsequent centuries the seat of the national government. At this time Crimhthan (pronounced Criffaun), sixth in

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 10

Beehive cells of Bishop's Island

near Bishop's Island · townland · Clare

Bishop's Island, a lonely rock near Kilkee, has two surviving beehive-type stone structures indicating early Christian hermits once lived there. The erosion of the land bridge to the mainland has protected the site from disturbance.

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Pursuing our course still southwards, the coast-line all the way to LoojD Head stands up again precipitate as a wall, sternly facing the onward rush of the Atlantic. Though not so high as Moher, — rarely exceeding three hundred and seldom dipping under one hundred feet, — it presents more variety, well repaying the visitor with pleasing combinations of pillared rock, lonely island, yawning cave, and wave-worn bridge. This frowning line of cliffs is broken at intervals by little bays, round one of which, anciently called Dough, is built the town of Kilkee, one of the most attractive of the many attractive seaside resorts round the coast of Ireland. Near here, lonely " Islaun an Aspuig," or Bishop's Island, stands up in stern grandeur from the sea. Being only a few hundred yards away from the mainland, two stone structures of the beehive kind can be plainly discerned. It is therefore certain that in the days of early Christian fervour, holy men retired here from the busy world to commune alone with God in the presence of His glorious works. The wearing away, by the ceaseless action of the ocean, of the means of communication with the mainland that must then have existed, has served a good purpose. It has warned off the thoughtless, perhaps sacrilegious, hand from these sacred buildings. Ever since, while looking over on them, the mind must travel back to that far-off age of Christian anchorites and hermits ; and many doubtless have asked, and many more will yet ask, themselves the question, Who were the wiser — the hermits who struggled there for the inheritance of the saints, or the worldlings whom they left immersed in pursuit of the " goods that perisheth " ?
From Kilkee, seventeen miles more of ever-changing cliff — the natural " Bridges of Boss " challenging special attention and admiration — lead to Loop Head, the most remote point of Clare. It is indeed a wild and lonely but truly majestic spot. In some minds it inspires terror ; for most it possesses a pleasing fascination. Along the narrow headland, on both sides, are steep precipices frowning over the surging, mys-

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 2

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, out in the sea near Kilkee, a lonely rock called Bishop's Island rises up from the water. Its Irish name is Islaun an Aspuig. It stands only a few hundred yards from the mainland, and from the shore you can make out two stone structures of the beehive kind, still surviving on that rock. Because those beehive cells are there, it is certain that in the days of early Christian fervour, holy men retired to this place from the busy world, to live alone and commune with God in the presence of His glorious works. The sea has since worn away whatever means of communication once linked Bishop's Island to the mainland. That erosion has served a purpose. It has warned off the thoughtless, perhaps sacrilegious, hand from these sacred buildings, and kept the site from disturbance. The author of the book that records this says that when you look over at those cells, the mind travels back to that far-off age of Christian anchorites and hermits. And he says many have asked themselves the question, and many more will yet ask it: Who were the wiser, the hermits who struggled there for the inheritance of the saints, or the worldlings whom they left immersed in pursuit of the goods that perish?

Brian fortifies Roscrea, Cahir, Bruree and Limerick

Roscrea · town · Tipperary

In preceding years Brian had strengthened his kingdom of Munster, constructing roads and bridges to concentrate his forces, and fortifying Kincora as well as building fortresses at Roscrea, Cahir, Bruree, Limerick, and other places.

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In the preceding years Brian had been gradually strengthening and fortifying his own kingdom of IMunster. All the annalists describe the works in which he engaged. He constructed roads and built bridges, to enable him to concentrate his forces, whether for attack or defence. He fortified more strongly than ever his own palace of Kincora, and built fortresses likewise in Roscrea, Cahir, Bruree, Limerick, and various other places, some of which cannot now be recognised in the Irish names given. Nor were the needs of religion overlooked. Churches and monasteries claimed much of his attention. He enlarged and beautified many of these ; special mention being made of Killaloe, Iniscaltra, and Tuamgreine, where he built also a Cloctheac, or round tower.^ This may throw some light on the
^ " It i.s Brian also that gave distinctive surnames to the men of Ireland, hy which every tribe of them is known. It is by him, likewise, the church of Cill Dalua and the church of Inis Cealtra were erected, and the steeple of Tuaim Greine was renewed." — Keating quoting MacLiag. The present church of Killaloe, built by Donal Mor, at the close of the twelfth century, replaced it.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 37

Bryan Merriman of Kilmihil writes 'Courth-Ban-Oithe' while teaching at Feacle

Feakle · town · Clare

Bryan Merriman, a native of Kilmihil, wrote a piece called 'Courth-Ban-Oithe' of considerable literary merit while teaching a school at Feacle; though unpublished, it survived in the memory of Irish-speaking people of the county.

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The two MacCurtins, Hugh and Andrew, had made their mark in a more legitimate manner earlier in the century. These were followed by James Considine, born near MuUagh, and Bryan Merriman, a native of Kilmihil, who, while teaching a school in Feacle, wrote a piece called " Courth-Ban- Oithe," which possesses considerable literary merit, and, though not in print, lives in the memory of the Irish -speaking people of the county.
One other Clare poet, but in the English tongue, Thomas Dermody, born at Enuis in 1775, far outshone the others

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 169

Capture of Inchicronan Castle

Inchicronan · parish · Clare · 1642

The castle of Inchicronan was taken by a joint force of the O'Gradys and O'Shaughnessys after a sortie by the besieged garrison was repulsed with loss, leading to the castle's surrender.

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The castle of Inchicronan was taken by a joint force of the O'Gradys and the O'Shaughnessys. A sortie made by the besieged was repulsed with loss, upon which the place was surrendered.
Colonel Ed. O'Flaherty came across from the Arran islands and laid siege to the castle of Tromoroe, which was then held by Peter Ward. They stormed it from Sunday night to Wednesday morning. Ward's wife was killed by a chance shot through the window. His son held a parley

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 128

Council of Armagh frees Saxon slaves

near Armagh · town · Armagh · 1171

In 1171 a decree was passed at the Council of Armagh restoring to liberty all the Saxons then held in bondage in Ireland, showing the Christian standing of Irish society before the Norman invasion.

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Xo sooner was the Danish power broken, than the old love of learning and religion revived. As already related, council after council was held, at one of which a cardinal, representing the Holy Father, appeared, for the purpose of checking the licentiousness so natural to the disturbed state of society ; and it is well worthy of note, as showing the relative position of the two countries, that in the Council of Armagh, 1171, a decree was passed restoring to liberty all the Saxons who were then held in bondage in Ireland. A generous Christian irupulse, stirred up, indeed, by fear of God's 'anger for so unholy a traffic, proved more effective and more thorough in the cause of human freedom than the halting legislation of this enlightened century, with which the name of AVilberforce is inseparably and so honourably connected. May not the inference be drawn from this fact alone, that the people were settling down, in spite of the petty civil warfare kept on here and there, to the ways of Christian peace. To those foreign slaves, and the subdued native Firbolg tribes, was usually committed the task of cultivating the land and practising handicraft of all kinds, save that of smith, or armour-maker, or bell-founder, which crafts were held as of note and honour. The clansmen were too proud to engage in other handiwork. In time of peace they were much given to the exchange of hospitalities. The Danes of Limerick supplied Clare with wines and other luxuries at a good profit, in exchange for the wool, hides, tallow, etc., in which the county abounded. Oak and other choice timber formed also a valuable export. It was with Irish oak, traditionally said to be of East Clare growth, that the Abbey of Westminster was roofed. The broad expanse of the Shannon afforded great facilities for imports and exports ; so we never hear complaints in the old annals of much want in those days. Sports and pastimes, and the pleasures of the chase, were of course among such a people keenly enjoyed ; and, to while away the hours after banqueting was over, they had the glorious music of the harp, the eager contest over that mimic battlefield, the chessboard, and the thrilling stories of the Bards recounting the

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 60

Death of Diarmid at Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1118

Diarmid, called King of Munster and all Leathmogha during Mortogh's retirement, died at Cork, prompting Turlogh O'Connor to seize the opportunity to install the MacCarthys as rulers of Desmond.

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The cup was not yet full. Diarmid, who is called King of Munster and of all Leathmogha, during the retirement of Mortogh, died at Cork. Turlogh O'Connor seized on tlie opportunity, marched down to Glanmore unopposed, and cut across the power of Munster by establishing the MacCarthys as rulers of Desmond. Returning, he crossed the Shannon at Limerick, and once more razed Kincora to the ground — " hurling it," the Four Masters say, " both stone and wood into the Shannon." Alas ! in that evil day for the departed glories of the Dal-Cas. It was now time for Mortogh to disappear from a scene of such disaster. He had persistently aimed all his life, in spite of many a defeat, at supreme rule, following in the footsteps of his great ancestor, and only secured it, to see it after a little while slipping for ever from his grasp. He died, " after the victory of reign and penance," as the annalists pathetically put it, in March 111 U, and was interred in the church of Killaloe.^
1 Ware's Bishops, Harris edition, p. 590. - Four Masters.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 53

As the companion tells it

As you come through Cork, this is where Diarmid died in 1118. He was called King of Munster and of all Leathmogha, during the retirement of Mortogh. The cup was not yet full. Turlogh O'Connor seized on the opportunity. He marched down to Glanmore unopposed and cut across the power of Munster by establishing the MacCarthys as rulers of Desmond. Returning, he crossed the Shannon at Limerick and once more razed Kincora to the ground. The Four Masters say he was "hurling it, both stone and wood into the Shannon." In that evil day for the departed glories of the Dal-Cas, it was time for Mortogh to disappear from the scene. He had persistently aimed all his life at supreme rule, following his great ancestor, and only secured it to see it slipping for ever from his grasp. He died, as the annalists put it, after the victory of reign and penance, in March 1118, and was interred in the church of Killaloe.

Death of Monarch Aodh Enforcing the Boromean Tribute

Tara · parish · Meath · 595

In the year 595, Aodh, the monarch of Erinn, was killed while attempting to enforce payment of the unjust Boromean tribute on Leinster, one of many disastrous events stemming from this imposition.

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In the year 595, Aodh, the monarch of Ennn, himself tell in the attempt to enforce the payment of the tribute ; and this was but one of many other disastrous events which followed. An end was at last put to it in a manner which shows how deeply the teaching of Christianity entered into the hearts of the people and their rulers. About the year 684 AD., Fionactha, monarch of Ireland, marched into Leinster to seize the usual tribute— fifteen thousand head of cattle— and insist on the fulfilment of the other conditions. He was met by St. Molaing, Bishop of Ferns, who remonstrated with him on the injustice of the impost so successfully, that then and there it was for ever (except on special occasions as a punishment for some transgression) abolished, just as St. Columb-cille, more than a century before, had procured the freedom from tribute of the Irish colony in Scotland. The period to which this chapter is devoted, for the purpose of a general sketch, was unquestionably the most glorious in Irish history.
The acceptance of Christianity put an end, m a great degree, to the ravages of war. The fervour with which it wa^'s embraced was unexampled in any country on the globe. The Irish, as a nation, turned their attention almost ex-

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 22

Ennis meeting effects change from Brehon to English land tenure

Ennis · town · Clare · 1585

Following the Dublin Parliament, a meeting was held at Ennis with the avowed purpose of substituting English for Brehon law throughout the county, resulting in a revolutionary Indenture that most chieftains did not willingly sign.

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Sir John Perrot, having now disposed of all the enemies to the queen's policy west of the Shannon, summoned a Parliament to sit in Dublin on the 26th April 1585. The Four Masters give the names of all who attended this Parliament from all parts of Ireland. There attended from Clare, among the peers, Donogh O'Brien, Earl of Thomond, Morogh O'Brien of Inchiquin, and the queen's Bishop of Killaloe, Morogh, son of O'Brien of Ara ; among the commons. Sir Turlogh O'Brien and Boetius Clancy. There came also, not as members, but to watch their own interests, John MacNamara, Lord of West Clancuilean, Eossa O'Loughlin, son of the O'Loughlin of Burren, and Turlogh O'Brien of Ballycorick. With the acts of this Parliament we have no concern in this history ; but following it soon after, and very probably arising out of its deliberations, a meeting was held at Ennis, which claims from Clare people more than ordinary attention, as its avowed purpose was to effect a complete change in the land tenure all through the county — to substitute, in the most formal way, English for Brehon law.
The statement of the alleged agreement entered into at this meeting between the Queen of England and the people of Clare, is given in full in the Appendix, as it appears in what is called Sir John Perrot's Tripartite Deed, for the reason that it gives a kind of photographic view of the Clare of that day. 2

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 106

Gothic church built to preserve the Ark

near Carrigaholt · townland · Clare

With contributions from sympathisers, Father Meehan erected a handsome Gothic church on the site given by the agent, within which the original Ark hut is preserved.

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was able, with the contributions that came in from generous sympathisers, to erect a handsome Gothic church, within which the " Ark " is preserved. This was practically the end of proselytism in the district. It was carried on in a dying condition for some years longer. Those who had been committed to it left as quickly as they could for America, bringing certificates, in many instances, that they had been received back into the Church. At the present time one individual is the outcome in full of the prolonged and costly undertaking.
In other parts of the country, at Paian, Tulla, and Newmarket, similar attempts were made, but on a much smaller scale. The will was there, but public opinion was too strong for those who took advantage of dire distress to traffic in human souls. Giving employment was the specious pretext used, but the object was soon made manifest, and the end was soon reached.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 191

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Father Meehan built a handsome Gothic church to house and preserve the Ark, using contributions from sympathisers and a site given by the agent. The Ark was a hut at the centre of a long effort to win converts through offering employment during times of dire distress. This church marked the practical end of proselytism in the district. The effort lingered for a few more years, but those committed to it left for America as quickly as they could, many carrying certificates that they had been received back into the Church. By the time the book was written, one individual remained as the sole outcome of the whole prolonged and costly undertaking. Similar attempts were made at Paian, Tulla, and Newmarket, but on a much smaller scale. Public opinion was too strong for those who took advantage of distress to, as the book puts it, "traffic in human souls."

Killaloe men whipped by Major Purdon's yeomanry

near Killaloe · townland · Clare · 1798

About a score of men brought in from Killaloe by Major Purdon's corps of yeomanry were among those punished during the 1798 crackdown, most escaping with whippings rather than execution.

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Drum-head court-marshals were held at Limerick, before which the accused from the surrounding counties were brought for trial. Some of these were hanged on the new bridge ; but most of them got off with transportation or whippings. Among the latter were about a score brought in from Killaloe by Major Purdon's corps of yeomanry, and a few captured by Captain Studdert's near Kilkishen. One of the Lysaghts of Kilfenora and Thomas Frost of Eossmanaher, with others, were transported for life.
The infamous Judkin Fitzgerald was busy with the lash and the pitch-cap and the rope through Tipperary. It is a singular fact that the last of his descendants in the male line — a boy of nine or ten years of age — hanged himself accidentally some years ago, while showing his young companions how his grandfather hanged the Croppies in 1798. The poor lad paid dearly for the teaching he evidently received at the hearthstone.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 168

MacMahon repel sea-borne attack near Carrigaholt

near Carrigaholt · townland · Clare · 1460

In 1460 Teigue's sons, aided by the Burkes and O'Malleys, attempted a surprise sea attack on the MacMahons of Corcovaskin near Carrigaholt, but were routed on landing, with three O'Malley chiefs slain and Donal O'Brien captured.

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he built his residence, was acknowledged King of Thomond. He had a peaceful rule of six years, being troubled by no rival, and having the support of his mother's people, the Burkes of Clanrickard. He met, however, one serious check, A.D. 1460. Having some cause of quarrel with the MacMahons of Corcovaskin, he endeavoured to take them by surprise. His sons, probably with the aid of their relatives the Burkes, secured the co-operation of the O'Malleys with a view to an attack from the sea. Their approach along the coast and round Loop Head towards Carrigaholt could not escape observation. The MacMahons made ready for the attack, and, falling upon them in the first moment of their landing, compelled them to retreat precipitately to their vessels, slaying many, among whom were three chiefs of the O'Malleys. Donal O'Brien was taken prisoner. His brother Mahon was drowned before he could reach his ship.^ This sharp lesson had the effect of securing the MacMahons the peaceable possession of their own country.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 79

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in 1460, the MacMahons of Corcovaskin repelled a sea-borne attack that came round Loop Head towards Carrigaholt. The man behind it was King of Thomond, who had ruled peacefully for six years with the support of his mother's people, the Burkes of Clanrickard. He had some quarrel with the MacMahons and tried to take them by surprise. His sons, probably with the aid of the Burkes, secured the O'Malleys for an attack from the sea. But their approach along the coast could not escape observation. The MacMahons made ready, and fell upon them the moment they landed, compelling them to retreat precipitately to their vessels. Many were slain, among them three chiefs of the O'Malleys. Donal O'Brien was taken prisoner. His brother Mahon was drowned before he could reach his ship. This sharp lesson secured the MacMahons the peaceable possession of their own country.

Mortogh's grant of Cashel of the Kings to religious of Ireland

Cashel · townland · Tipperary · 1098–1100

Mortogh summoned ecclesiastical and civil leaders to Cashel and made a solemn grant forever of Cashel of the Kings, free of all charge, to the religious of Ireland.

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The next attempt of the Dalcassian prince to subdue the fierce spirit of the Northerns was made in the opposite direction, towards Assaroe, the present Ballyshannon, as if to evade the interference of " the successor of St. Patrick ; " but again he had to retire with loss. In order to counteract his lost prestige, he then summoned to Cashel the leaders, ecclesiastical and civil, of the people, and made solemnly a grant for ever of Cashel of the Kings, free of all kinds of charge, to the religious of Ireland. Come whence they might, as long as anything was there, every religious could claim part ownership.
It may be that this act of religious generosity revived the drooping Dalcassian spirit. Consequent on it, another assault was made on the stronghold of the North, and this time with ^ Four Masters.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 51

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, around the year 1098, the Dalcassian prince Mortogh made a gift that still carries his name. He had tried to subdue the Northerns towards Assaroe, the present Ballyshannon, but had to retire with loss. To recover his standing, he summoned the leaders, ecclesiastical and civil, of the people to Cashel, and made solemnly a grant for ever of Cashel of the Kings, free of all kinds of charge, to the religious of Ireland. Any religious, come whence they might, could claim part ownership, as long as anything was there. It may be that this act of generosity revived the drooping Dalcassian spirit, for another assault followed on the stronghold of the North.

O'Gorman Mahon's Fiery Justice at Quin Petty Sessions

Quin · town · Clare · 1824

Around 1824 O'Gorman Mahon, newly appointed a justice of the peace, walked with dogs and gun from Newpark near Ennis to Quin to see justice done for O'Connell's men in a road-repair dispute, provoking applause with his blunt courtroom outburst.

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making and keeping in repair the roads. They made a nice thing out of it, until William O'Connell of Toureen, near Ennis, a relative of his great namesake, one of the largest and most successful farmers in Ireland, and grandfather of the present Daniel O'Connell, J.P., of Kilgorey, near Tulla, took heart to interfere with the blackmailing practice. He put in a presentment at the Road Sessions for so much a lower figure than the others, that it could not in common decency be thrown out. They determined to die hard. They set their men to obstruct O'Counell's men, and of course a free fight ensued. Summonses were issued. The case came on at Petit Sessions in Quin about 1824, and O'Gorman Mahon was asked to come there and see justice done to O'Connell's men. He stalked in with dogs and gun, having walked across shooting from Newpark, near Ennis, where he then lived. The case had been for some time at hearing, and one of Mr. O'Connell's men was giving evidence.
" You say you struck the man ? " interposed O'Gorman Mahon fiercely.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 176

Pierce Creagh granted secure lands near English quarters

Lisdoonvarna · townland · Clare

Pierce Creagh of Limerick, hated by his countrymen for his known inclination toward the English government, was granted a secure place in the forfeited MacNamara territory near the English quarters in Clare, and later retained lands at Dangan and Lisdoonvarna.

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Some of those were specially favoured. Pierce Creagh, of Limerick, being hated by his countrymen " for his former known inclination to the English Government," was allowed a " secure place in Clare neare the English quarters," in the forfeited MacNamara territory ; and Edmund Magrath, of Tipperary, who had acted as a spy, had conveyed to him, with special protection, property in Clare, at Tyredagh, near Tulla, where the people, through -dislike of him, began at once cutting down the woods. He also got back his original property of eight hundred acres of Ballymore in the barony of Kilnamanagh. It was probably part of Miler Magrath 's ill-gotten goods.^
The death of Cromwell in 165Y, followed by the weak rule of his son Eichard, prepared the way for the restoration of the monarchy. On the accession of Charles II. to the throne, the hopes of the Catholics ran high, but were soon dashed to the ground. Those, however, who had followed the fortunes of the exiled Stuarts to the Continent were at once taken into the royal favour, and restored to their estates. Among them, the most prominent in Clare w^ere the Earl of Inchiquin,^ Sir Daniel O'Brien of Carrigaholt, who, though over

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 139

Policy of bribing chiefs with plunder of clans inaugurated at Limerick

Limerick · city · Limerick · 1542

On 15 February 1542, in the city of Limerick, the policy of bribing Irish chiefs with the plunder of suppressed religious houses and clan property was formally inaugurated, ceding rights that belonged to the clans.

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The Lord Deputy Anthony St. Leger held a Parliament at Limerick in February 1542, with a view to arrange the terms of surrender. As soon as Henry was made aware of this peaceful surrender, he himself, in a letter to the Lord Deputy and Council,^ had suggested that the ancient dignity of Prince of Thomond should merge into an English title of nobility. This was a bitter pill to Irish pride, but there was no help for it. Besides, it came to Morogh O'Brien gilt with the gift of "certain abbeyes lately suppressed," and the acknowledgment of ownership of property belonging of right to the clans. Others of the more powerful neighbouring chiefs, notably MacXamara and O'Grady, had also to be conciliated, and so at this Parliament arrangements were entered into * which were soon after completed in the king's palace of Greenwich. The policy of bribing the chiefs with the
1 Four Masters. ^ Memoirs of the O'Briens by O'Donohue.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 93

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Limerick, you are in a city where a Parliament sat in February 1542 under Lord Deputy Anthony St. Leger, aimed at arranging terms of surrender. King Henry VIII himself wrote suggesting the ancient dignity of Prince of Thomond merge into an English title of nobility. It was, the record calls it, "a bitter pill to Irish pride, but there was no help for it." Morogh O'Brien was given "certain abbeyes lately suppressed" and acknowledgment of ownership of property that belonged of right to the clans. Other powerful neighbouring chiefs, notably MacXamara and O'Grady, also had to be conciliated. The arrangements begun at this Parliament were soon after completed at the king's palace of Greenwich. This is where the policy of bribing chiefs with the plunder of suppressed religious houses and clan property was formally inaugurated, ceding rights that belonged to the clans.

Reverend Twembrooke of Dysert's exaggerated deposition

Dysert · townland · Clare · 1642

The Reverend John Twembrooke of Dysert swore to substantial losses of goods and church living during the rising, and separately denounced several local clergy for having 'turned Papist' since the rebellion.

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Here is another specimen too good to be passed over. The Pieverend John Twembrooke, of Dysert, swears " he was, last Christmas, robbed and despoiled of goods and chattels to his loss and damage in £348, besides his church living, worth £200 per annum, cows, horses, mares, heifers, turf, books, linens, woollens, hay, corn, leases, debts, by T. O'Brien of Tullamore." In the return of Bishop Ptider, already referred to at some length, this parson's living is put down as £20 per annum. Which of the two statements is the correct one ? Xor is he entirely absorbed in his monetary losses. His 1 O'Flaherty's West Connaught. Edited by ^Ir. Hardiman.
248 HISTORY OF CLARE.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 129

Siege and capture of Limerick from English garrison

Limerick · city · Limerick

Dalcassian, O'Connor and Desmonian forces allied under Donal MacCarthy laid siege to Limerick and drove out the English garrison with great loss.

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The marriage of Donal's only daughter, Moira or Mary, with Cathal Crovdearg (the Eed- handed) O'Connor, illegitimate brother of King Koderick, but whose ability and force of character secured him the succession to the throne in spite of his spurious birth, became the occasion of an alliance between the Dalcassians and the O'Connors, which led to .important results. Marching southwards,^ their forces were swelled by the adhesion of the Desmonians, under Donal MacCarthy. They first laid siege to Limerick, from which they drove the English, who had lately got hold of it, with great loss. They then proceeded to Cork. The English there capitulated, on condition of being allowed to depart unmolested, which MacCarthy gladly acceded to, as it saved the city from burning. They then turned their arms against other English garrisons, driving them everywhere before them, till the common enemy had not so much as a foothold in the Southern province.
^ Four Masters and Awials of Innisfallen.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 65

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Limerick now. This city was once besieged and taken from an English garrison that had lately got hold of it. The attack came from an alliance forged by a marriage, Donal's daughter Moira wed to Cathal Crovdearg O'Connor, and the Dalcassians and O'Connors marched south together. The Desmonians under Donal MacCarthy joined them, and they drove the English out with great loss before moving on to Cork.

Siege of Limerick and flight of Turlogh O'Brien

Limerick · city · Limerick

Mortogh MacLaughlin laid siege to Limerick, where Turlogh O'Brien had taken refuge; the Danish inhabitants did not resist, and Turlogh escaped only with his life as Mortogh entered the town and dictated terms to Munster.

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cope successfully in his shattered condition, made submission to Piory, leaving twelve of the Dal-Cas as hostages. The Northern prince, recognising in Eory a formidable rival, determined once more to assert his supremacy. With his usual vigour he made a forced march through friendly Meath into Leinster, demanding and obtaining hostages from Dermod MacMurrough. He next marched through Ossory into South Munster, compelling submission as he went. He then turned upon Thomond, whose prince, Turlogh, had behaved towards him with so much ingratitude in recognising Eory as Ard- Eigh, and, overrunning the whole country east of the Shannon, laid siege to Limerick, where Turlogh had taken refuge. The Danes, who mostly inhabited the city, did not dare to resist, and Mortogh, entering the town, from which Turlogh escaped only with his life, dictated terms once more to all ]\Iunster. He left Dermod MacCarthy, who had given him hostages, in possession of South Munster, and made Conor, son of Donal of Lismore, Prince of Thomond. Meanwhile Turlogh tied to Connaught, putting himself and his cause into the hands of his former enemies. No sooner had the Northern prince returned to his own territory, after having secured the dignity of Ard-Eigh, than Eory marched an army into Munster, restoring Turlogh in Thomond, and taking hostages from MacCarthy, or rather a promise of them if Mortogh MacLaughlin did not come within a specified time to defend them.
It is not out of place to note here the holding of another National Council in 1157 at Drogheda, seventeen bishops and a large number of priests being present. The successor of St. Patrick solemnly consecrated the Abbey of Mellifont. Many of the princes of the kingdom were present with rich gifts, and the occasion was utilised, among other things, to solemnly depose O'Mealaghlin, King of Meath, who had treacherously murdered O'Quinlivan^ of the race of Laoghaire — a prince, say all the annalists, of great worth — and this in the teeth of a most binding treaty of peace between them, ratified by both ecclesiastical and civil power. It is gratifying to find,

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 57

As the companion tells it

The road brings you into the country around Limerick, a city that was once a refuge and a prize. Mortogh MacLaughlin, the Northern prince, had already made a forced march through friendly Meath into Leinster, where he demanded and obtained hostages from Dermod MacMurrough. He marched on through Ossory into South Munster, compelling submission as he went. Then he turned upon Thomond. Its prince, Turlogh O'Brien, had recognised Eory as Ard-Eigh, and Mortogh saw that as ingratitude. Overrunning the whole country east of the Shannon, he laid siege to Limerick, where Turlogh had taken refuge. The Danes, who mostly inhabited the city, did not dare to resist. Mortogh entered the town, and Turlogh escaped only with his life. Mortogh dictated terms once more to all Munster. He left Dermod MacCarthy, who had given him hostages, in possession of South Munster. He made Conor, son of Donal of Lismore, Prince of Thomond. Turlogh fled to Connaught, putting himself and his cause into the hands of his former enemies. But no sooner had the Northern prince returned to his own territory, having secured the dignity of Ard-Eigh, than Eory marched an army into Munster. He restored Turlogh in Thomond, and took hostages from MacCarthy, or rather a promise of them if Mortogh MacLaughlin did not come within a specified time to defend them.

St Patrick blesses Thomond from Knoc Patrick

Knockpatrick · townland · Limerick · 432

Unable to cross to preach to the people of Corcovaskin who invited him, St Patrick foretold the birth of St Senan and, according to tradition, climbed the mountain named after him, Knoc Patrick, overlooking their territory, stretching his hands towards Thomond in blessing.

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birth of one of their own race who would do for their country what he was doino- for the rest of Ireland. Tradition asserts that, going to the top of the mountain, called after him to the present day, Knoc Patrick, overlooking the territory of Corcovaskin, he stretched his hands out towards Thomond, and solemnly blessed it and its inhabitants. His prophecy was fulfilled, in the birth, forty years later on, of St. Senan, A.D. 488. This date, Dr. Lanigan asserts, tallies best with the historical, as distinct from the legendary, accounts of the holy Saint's life.
The various authors who wrote of him agree in pointing out Magh-Lacha, within about three miles of Kilrush, as his birthplace. The lake in the district, called after him St. Senan's Lake, is held in great veneration. Every year crowds flock to it, performing pilgrimages in honour of the Saint, and seeking his intercession. His father's name was Ercau, his mother's Coemgilla. Very little that can be relied on is known of his early youth. The first noticeable incident was his being compelled to take arms under his chieftain in an attack upon the people of Corcomroe. But he made no use of those arms, feeling that the raid was unjust. The invaders were repulsed with great loss. Senan was taken prisoner, but God softened the hearts of his captors, and the peace-loving youth was set at liberty.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 15

Violation of the church of Lusk by Donogh's forces

Lusk · town · Dublin

Donogh and the men of Thomond, allied with Conor O'Meaghlin, made an incursion into Diarmid's territory and violated the great church of Lusk, carrying away captives who had taken refuge there.

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lay close together. This time Donogh and the men of Thomoncl, in conjunction with Conor O'MeaL^ghlin, his halfbrother, were the aggressors. Viewing with jealousy the growing power of Diarmid, King of Leinster, they made an incursion into his territory, not hesitating to violate in their unholy fury the great church of Lusk, Those who took refuge there were carried away captives.^ A just retribution awaited Donogh. Diarmid, gathering together a strong force, first had his revenge of the son of Malachy by ravaging Meath, and then, turning southwards, plundered all Thomond, destroying Dun-tri-liag, near Corbally, in the county of Limerick, a fortress first erected by Cormac Cas, the great ancestor of the Dalcassians, and restored and strengthened by Brian Boroimhe. At this time Donogh was in South Munster, and, as misfortunes seldom come alone, Aedh O'Connor, espousing the cause of Turlogh, penetrated into West Thomond (Clare) down to the Shannon, carrying away great spoil from Tradaree and Corcovaskin. At this period, Tuaimfiulough, near Xewmarket, must have been a place of note, as the Four Masters make special mention of its having been plundered.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 46

Workhouses established across Clare to relieve famine distress

Ennis · town · Clare · 1845–1847

As the Great Famine deepened, workhouses were established in Ennis, Scariff, Ennistymon, and Kilrush, with the county mapped into electoral divisions for relief of distress. The system helped initially but broke down as want deepened over the years.

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"With the turning over of what is but a page in history — the events of two or three unimportant years — what a contrast presents itself ! The high and bounding hopes of '43 and '44 yield place to the blank dismay and despair of '46 and '47. Xo free country ever rushed, or could ever so rush, from one extreme to the other, except perhaps in the case of disastrous war. But then Ireland was not a free country. Our way here lies only through Clare, and it is a sufficiently sad and weary one. Wlien it became known that the potato — the sole food of millions of the Irish poor — had rotted in the pits at the end of '45, a cry of terror rose from the land. True, the workhouses were there, — one in Ennis, another in Scariff, another in Ennistymon, and yet one more in Kilrush, — and the whole county was found mapped out in electoral divisions for the relief of distress. For the first year or two of the famine this system was of some advantage, but as want deepened year after year, it completely broke down. England, which had forcibly introduced the uncertain land tenure which rendered such a calamity natural, stood aloof, folded in the nmntle of political economy. With the exception of some very inadequate grants for relief works, managed mostly, or rather mismanaged, by English officials, the terrible strain fell on the local rates. The poor were condemned to eat the poor. Charitable contributions indeed began to pour in from America and England, but failed to stem the torrent of ever-increasing want. Deaths from famine or famine fever grew so frequent over the whole county, that they created neither comment nor surprise.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 184

1885 election: Nationalists overwhelm Conservatives in Clare

near Clare · population centre · Clare · 1885

At the 1885 election, the Conservative candidates polled only 538 votes against over 13,000 for the Nationalist candidates, confirming Nationalist dominance in Clare politics.

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Home Eule movement pushed forward all who had ranged themselves hitherto under the banner of the English Liberal Party into the higher, and for Irishmen, broader platform of Irish nationality. There are no mere Liberals in Clare now ; and when the Conservatives were impolitic enough to put forward their strength against the Nationalists at the election of 1885, Lord Inchiquin's son, the grandnephew of William Smith O'Brien, and Carey Eeeves, D.L., the most popular Conservative in Clare, polled between them only 538 against over 13,000 given for the Nationalist candidates, J. Jordan and Mr. Cox, both strangers to the people and to the county. The position of parties thus defined remains since, and promises to remain in the future, unchanged.
Soon after the Crimean War, one of the captured Eussian guns was sent on to Ennis. It was proposed to fix it as a trophy of English victory on the site of the old court-house.^ But that too was the spot on which the battle for Catholic Emancipation was fought and won, and that victory deserved to be commemorated in the people's minds far more than the success at the Crimea. An outcry was raised against the planting of the cannon there, and the idea started of raising instead of it a monument to the Liberator. The whole county became enthusiastic over it. Collections were made in every parish, and Michael Considine, the guiding spirit of the congregated trades of Ennis, whose homely eloquence had done much to stir up public spirit in the matter, was deputed by the committee to seek aid from the Irish in England. The execution of the work was committed to Cahill, the sculptor. The material for both column and statue was the fine limestone which abounds in the neighbourhood of Ennis. On the stately column, 74 feet high, he placed a colossal but graceful figure of O'Connell looking over the scene of his triumph, which as a work of art helped him to fame, and of which any city might well be proud. The unveiling of the statue took place on the 3rd of October 1865, in the presence of an immense gathering. To Dr. Power, Bishop of Killaloe,

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 192

Abbey of Corcomroe built by Donal Mor O'Brien

Corcomroe · barony · Clare · 1193

The Cistercian Abbey of Corcomroe, called 'de Petra Fertili' (of the fertile rock), was built by Donal Mor O'Brien in 1193. It was first connected with Inislounagh Abbey in Tipperary, and later, oddly, with Furness Abbey in Lancashire, with an offshoot at Kilshanny.

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Another better-known relic of the pious past in this region is the Abbey of Corcomroe, called in ecclesiastical records ih iKtra ftrtili, " of the fertile rock." It was built for Cistercians by that most indefatigable of church-builders, Donal Mor O'Brien, a.d. 1193. It was connected first with the Abbey of Inislannaght on the Suir in Co. Tipperary, but later on, strangely enough, with that of Turness in Lancashire. It had an offshoot some ten or twelve miles south at Kilshanny. Had the monks anything to say to the growth of the famous oyster-beds at Pouladoody and Eedbank, in their immediate neighbourhood ?
On the borders of this Arabia Petrtea of Clare are the well - known though lately discovered Lisdoonvarna Spas. Sulphur, chalybeate, copper, and magnesia waters are here quite close to each other, springing as if almost from the same source, and proving that minerals abound below the surface. The sea and mountain breezes sweep over this favoured locality. It is now regarded as one of the most famous health-giving resorts in all Europe. In the writer's Philistine mind the Burren mutton is credited with no small share of the recuperatory powers of the place.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 6

Battle of Lachen in Kilmihil parish

Kilmihil · town · Clare · 1117

The Connaught prince fought his way further into Dalcassian territory than any invader before, inflicting a severe defeat at Lachen, in the present parish of Kilmihil, on Turlogh, son of Diarmid.

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In the year following, 11 17, the Connaught prince retaliated, fighting his way farther into the Dalcassian territory than ever invader did before, and inflicting a severe defeat at Lachen, in the present parish of Kilmihil, on Turlogh, son of Diarmid, and nephew of the dying Ard-Eigh. This was iollowed up by invasion of East Thomond, where again fortune forsook the Minister forces. These reverses, following thick and fast on the Dalcassian monarch in his declining years, quenched out all hope of any further successful assertion, by force of arms, of his claim to supreme sovereignty. He was the last of the Dalcassian line who attained this dignity.
The cup was not yet full. Diarmid, who is called King of Munster and of all Leathmogha, during the retirement of Mortogh, died at Cork. Turlogh O'Connor seized on tlie opportunity, marched down to Glanmore unopposed, and cut across the power of Munster by establishing the MacCarthys as rulers of Desmond. Returning, he crossed the Shannon at Limerick, and once more razed Kincora to the ground — " hurling it," the Four Masters say, " both stone and wood into the Shannon." Alas ! in that evil day for the departed glories of the Dal-Cas. It was now time for Mortogh to disappear from a scene of such disaster. He had persistently aimed all his life, in spite of many a defeat, at supreme rule, following in the footsteps of his great ancestor, and only secured it, to see it after a little while slipping for ever from his grasp. He died, " after the victory of reign and penance," as the annalists pathetically put it, in March 111 U, and was interred in the church of Killaloe.^

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 53

Bishop Mahon O'Griffy buried at Canon Island

Canon Island · townland · Clare · 1483

In 1483 Mahon O'Griffy, Bishop of Killaloe, was buried in the Abbey of the Canons Regular of St. Augustine on the island at the mouth of the Fergus, called Canon Island, whose ruins still lend a picturesque effect to the Shannon.

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This tragic occurrence was followed by peace in Clare for a period of more than twenty years. Within that time, at the end of 1482, died two of the chiefs of the MacClanchys, who w^ere hereditary Brehons or judges of Thomond. In the beginning of the following year, Mahon O'Griffy, Bishop of Killaloe, was buried in the Abbey of the Canons Eegular of St. Augustine, in the island at the mouth of the Fergus, called after them Canon Island, and the ruins of which to the present day lend such a picturesque effect to that broad expanse of the Shannon. At this period, Xicholas O'Grady, upon whom, in recognition of his eminent qualities, the freedom of the city of Limerick was conferred, presided as abbot at Tomgraney. There is mention made also of Donnell MacGorman of Ibrickeu, as " the richest man in Ireland in live stock," ^ which shows how settled was the condition of Clare as regards the possession of property. But as yet there was not sufficient protection for life, as we read in the Four Masters that " Cumara MacISTamara was exultingly slain by the sons of Donogh MacXamara" in A.D. 1486. In the same year died "Piaighnault, daughter of John MacISTamara, wife of Turlogh, son of Teigue O'Brien, lord of East Thomond," ^ and in the year following, " Hugh, son of Philip Pioe Mac- Namara, a brave and warlike man." ^ In the west of the county the Mac^SIahons were engaged in an internal struggle, fomented by two rival claimants to the chieftaincy.** But the most important event of the dying century in Clare was the inroad made upon the Dalcassians by the Lord-Deputy, the Earl of Kildare, in revenge for their support of the illegitimate claimant to the earldom of Ormond, the rightful heir having married his sister. He marched an army across
1 Four Masters. ^ Ibid.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 80

Brian's offering of gold at Armagh

near Armagh · town · Armagh

Continuing his campaign, Brian proceeded through Meath and marched northwards to Armagh, where he spent a week and left upon the altar twenty ounces of gold, a sum described as more than ten times that amount in the author's time.

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the men of the Xorth stoutly resisted any encroachment on their territory. They met the monarch with such a show of resistance at Ballysadare, on the borders of Co. Sligo, that the latter turned back his forces, probably because he saw they were greatly outnumbered. This reverse did not turn Brian aside from his purpose of subjugating the whole of the North. About a year after he renewed the attack, but in a different direction. Proceeding through Meath, he marched northwards to Armagh, where he spent a week, and left upon the altar twenty ounces of gold, — a sum more than equivalent to ten times the amount in our time. Continuing his piogress, he entered the territory of Dalriada, from which he returned after receiving hostages. But the Four Masters, evidently anxious to laud the independent spirit of the O'Neills and O'Donnells, quote, in a manner quite unusual with them, as if for greater authority, from the Booli of Clonmacnoise and the Book of the Island of Saints in Lough Righ, to prove that Brian again failed to overcome the hardy clans of the north-west. The Annals of Ulster, however, which cannot be regarded as unduly biassed against the Ulster princes in favour of Brian, record his complete success in the second enterprise. Under the year 1005 they describe the triumphant progress of the monarch through the whole North, including by name Tirconnell and Tirowen. He then divided his army, the Leinster men going directly south to their own territory, the Danish contingent proceeding by sea to Dublin, while the men of Munster and Ossory retraced their steps homeward through Malachy's friendly territory. Thus, after many reverses, his perseverance and indomitable energy placed him at last on the highest pinnacle to which he could aspire. He returned to his palace of Kincora the acknowledged Ard-Eigh of the Irish nation. The palace, looking down on the noble Shannon from the height on which now the village of Killaloe is built, became the centre of all authority in the island, and the Dalcassian clans secured hardwon precedence among the men of Erinn.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 35

Cormac's gifts to religious houses before his fatal expedition

Ardfinnan · town · Tipperary · 908

Before his ill-fated Leinster campaign, King-Bishop Cormac MacCuilenan, sensing his own defeat and death, distributed gold, silver and altar vessels to the religious establishments at Ardfinnan, Lismore, Cork, Cashel, Armagh, and Iniscatha.

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These events deserve special notice in this history, as they brought for the first time for centuries into bold prominence the strength and valour of the Dalcassian race, and gave promise of the greater prominence which they were soon afterward to acquire. Elated by these successes, some of the Munster princes, and notably Flahertach, the restless Abbot of Iniscatha, ur^ed Cormac to revive the Ion "-abandoned claim for tribute from Leinster. The son of the King of Leinster had indeed invaded Munster three years before, but paid for his rashness the penalty of his life. Cormac felt that this could be no justification for such an arrogant claim. Against his will he was dragged, however, into the assertion of it ; and it was perhaps this sense of the injustice of the demand that filled him with a foreboding of disaster. Before venturing on the unlucky expedition, he made presents of gold and silver and altar vessels to the religious establishments at Ardfinnan, Lismore, Cork, Cashel, Armagh, and ^ Four Masters. ^ 76id
46 HISTORY OF CLARE.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 27

Death of Donal, Bishop of Killaloe

near Killaloe · townland · Clare · 1096–1098

Donal, Bishop of Killaloe and one of the Dal-Cas, died in his seventy-sixth year, praised by the Four Masters as a noble bishop renowned for wisdom, piety and charity, with intimate ties to Rome.

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Xorth ; this time with the men of Meath and some of the Connauglitmen swelling the Southern array. The Northerns, whose former allies were now in the ranks of the enemy, offered a stubborn resistance. A temporary truce was entered into — " God and the successor of St. Patrick made peace between them." ^ During this interyal died, in his seventysixth year, Donal, Bishop of Killaloe, one of the Dal-Cas, and of such renown that the Four Masters call him " a noble bishop, head of the wisdom and piety of the Gael, fountain of the charity of the West of Europe, a doctor of both orders, Eoman and Irish." It is clear fi'ora this that learning, and piety, and virtue, and intimate communion with Eome, were not unknown in the Clare of that stormy period.
AVhen domestic troubles, occasioned by the death of his mother and wife within a few months, had somewhat softened down, the old lifelong passion revived. Mortogh summoned to his side all the South of Ireland, and, with his new allies of Meath and Connaught, marched to the North, once more to assert his claim to supreme sovereignty. Again the crozier of Armagh barred his progress, and a year's peace was agreed on. Before hostilities were renewed, there occurred the death of Donogh, chief of the O'Hehirs, MacConmara, son of Donal, Lord of Hy Cashen, another MacCraith, successor of Ciaran, and Cronan of Tuaimgreine.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 51

De Clare's force cut to pieces recalled near O'Dea/O'Quin territory

Dysert · townland · Clare · 1318

As Lord Grey's army marched toward Galway through O'Dea and O'Quin territory, the local families watched jealously, remembering that about three hundred years earlier De Clare and his force had been cut to pieces there.

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allegiance, either temporal or spiritual. Morogh the Tanist, who held out stoutly, was supported evidently by the Mac- Namaras, as their castle of Bailecuilean, called in the State Papers Ballycongle, was soon after attacked and captured by the Lord Justice. Conor compromised, by surrendering to the English his rights over Coonagh, east of the Shannon ; and, being probably in collusion with Morogh, made, by taking the field against him, such show of willingness to weaken Dalcassian resistance as to secure good terms for the time, and stave off the evil day of absolute submission. The letter of the Lord Deputy ^ and Council to Henry, explaining, and in a manner apologising for, the conditions entered into with the Thomond prince, would warrant this belief. To punish Morogh, Lord Grey pushed on to his fortress of Clare Castle. Here, as at Bailecuilean, the garrison made little or no resistance when they saw cannon — the new and to them terrible engine of war — levelled against the fortifications. With this display of force the Lord Deputy was for the time satisfied. His line of march towards Galway lay along the level stretch of the country through which the railway now runs. The O'Deas and O'Quins, being subordinate to Conor O'Brien, offered no opposition. Nevertheless, they watched with jealous eye the first encroachment on their territory since, about three hundred years before, De Clare and his force had been cut to pieces there. He pushed ^ on immediately, without leaving English garrisons in the captured castles. Conor O'Brien's castle of Clonroad, though so near, was left untouched. That had been probably part of the arrangement entered into between him and Lord Grey at Limerick. So it came to pass that he retained the ancient style and dignity of Prince of Thomond till his death, two years after, a.d. 1539. But the thin end of the wedge was driven in ; and we shall have to see how henceforward it was slowly but inexorably driven home.
^ State Papers, vol. iii. p. 176.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 91

Dense woodland between Tulla and Kilkishen recalled by tradition

Kilkishen · town · Clare

The author's grandfather recounted that the whole country between Tulla and Kilkishen was so covered with trees that strayed cattle had to be searched for through the glades of the woods. The area is now nearly all bare.

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along the sea-board. I have found in all parts of it rooted stumps of trees standing still where they had been growing in the not very distant past. In Shaw Mason's Statistical Survey of Ireland, he writes that " almost the entire county about Ennistymon was, within the recollection of an old man, aged one hundred, who died about thirty or forty years ago (1810), covered with woods, mostly oak and ash full grown, and that he frequently shot wild pheasants in those woods." All that country, and indeed nearly all West Clare, is now bare and naked. The writer heard from his father that his grandfather used to tell how, when cattle strayed away in his youth, so covered with trees was the whole country between Tulla Quin and Kilkishen, that search had to be made for them through the glades of the woods. It is nearly all bare now. He heard himself, from old people near Bodyke, that the old people of their young days told of the slopes of the hills, all the way from Tomgraney to Broadford, being so thickly wooded that " a man might go from one place to the other along the branches of the trees almost without coming to the ground." There is not a tree there now. The new owners easily found markets for such valuable timber. It is traditionally stated that some old owners too, notably the absentee English O'Briens, stripped the hills round and above Killaloe of the noble oaks which adorned them, and of which were built some of the finest ships in the English navy.
The gloomy condition of plundered and downtrodden Claremen at home during all those years is relieved by the lustre which the exiles from the county shed on the name of Clare in the battlefields of Europe.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 160

Donogh defeats O'Ruarck at Clonfert

Clonfert (Butson) · townland · Galway · 1031

In 1031 Donogh met and defeated Art O'Ruarck, Prince of Breffney, on the very day O'Ruarck had plundered Clonfert, inflicting great loss of men and vessels on him.

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suspicion. As we will find later on, this young man had inherited much of the fire of his grandsire, and it is no matter for wonder that he cherished within him an eager desire to avenge his father's death, and, at the same time, to assert his claim to the throne of jMunster, and even of all Ireland. The first notable evidence of his ambitious views was an attack made on O'Dongan, chief of Ara-tire, the country lying along the eastern bank of the Shannon, in the principality of Thomond, who paid with his life his devotion to Donogh. It is probable that this onslaught was made while the latter was on an expedition against Art O'liuarck, Prince of Breffney, as both events are recorded by the Four Masters as occurring in the same year, a.d. 1031. O'Euarck had been carrying all before him along the course of the Shannon, overawing Connaught and threatening Thomond. Donogh wisely resolved not to wait for the attack on his own territory, so, pushing rapidly forward, he met O'Euaick on the very day when he had plundered Clonfert, and defeated him with great loss of men and vessels.
This victory more than counterbalanced the defeat which he had sustained a short time before in Ossory ; for, having been nearly all along acknowledged King of Leathmogha, or the southern half of Ireland, it secured him, as occurring in Leathcuin, or the northern half, that preponderance which gave, according to ancient custom, a claim to the dignity of Ard-Righ, or monarch of all Ireland. But it was only in name. The day for a strong ruling King of Ireland passed away with the disastrous victory of Clontarf.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 45

Donogh inaugurated prince at Magh-Adhair

near Magh Adhair · monument · Clare · 1306

On the death of Turlogh, his eldest son Donogh was at once elected and inaugurated as prince at Magh-Adhair, the traditional inauguration site of the O'Brien princes.

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The death of Turlogh was the signal for a renewal of turmoil in Clare. His eldest son, Donogh, was at once elected and inaugurated at Magh-Adhair ; but the supporters of the family of Brian Eua were not idle. There were among them, besides a large section of the O'Briens, the clans inhabiting nearly all the north-east of Clare and North Ormond ; the O'Gradys, the O'Kennedys, the O'Hogans, the O'Shinahans, the O'Lonergans, etc. Donogh could count with certainty on his relatives the MacNamaras, who were at the head of the Clan Cuilean families, the O'Liddys, the Maclnernys, the O'Hallorans, the O'Slatterys, the O'Meehans, the O'Kearneys, etc., together with his father's fosterers (and probably his own), the O'Deas, with their kindred clans, the O'Hehirs and O'Quins. The Western clans, MacMahons, O'Loughlins, and O'Connors, kept out of the wretched and ruinous struggle. The Normans, who had enmities among themselves, took sides in it : De Burgho supporting Donogh, the reigning prince ; and his father's enemy, De Clare, aiding his rival Dermod, grandson of Brian Eua.
Dermod's brother Conor was slain " treacherously by the

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 71

English attempt to build a castle at Killaloe repelled

near Killaloe · townland · Clare · 1207

In 1207 the English attempted to erect a castle at Killaloe, but the Dalcassian clans fiercely resented the intrusion and forced the English to retreat with considerable loss.

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An attempt was made by the English, in 1207, to erect a castle at Killaloe. This concession may have been promised by Donogh in return for their support ; but the Dalcassian spirit was not yet broken. The clans fiercely resented this intrusion into Clare, and the English had to retreat after considerable loss.^
A son of his uncle Brian, whose eyes had been put out by Donalmor, now laid claim to East Thomond, over which his father had ruled. With great vigour he seized upon the castles of Birr Lorha and Kennety. About this time, a.d. 1210, King John landed in Ireland with a large army. To secure his support against his cousin Mortogh, Donogh hastened to pay him homage, and on payment by him of a fine of one thousand marks, and a yearly tribute of one hundred pounds, was acknowledged by John as King of Thomond, to the exclusion of any other claimant whatsoever.^ Another and a more galling condition had to be complied with — the erection of two castles by the English, one at Roscrea and the other at Killaloe. His rival Mortogh could not hold out against the combination ; but Donogh paid dearly for the advantage he had secured. The English had not only a strong fortress overawing East Thomond, but another for the first time in West Thomond (Clare), and close by Kincora too, the ancient royal residence of the Dalcassian kinsrs. Donogh did not relish the neighbourhood of the Saxon intruders. He changed his residence to Clonroad, in

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 66

English O'Briens stripped the noble oaks above Killaloe

near Killaloe · townland · Clare

Tradition holds that absentee English O'Briens stripped the hills round and above Killaloe of noble oaks, which were used to build some of the finest ships in the English navy.

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along the sea-board. I have found in all parts of it rooted stumps of trees standing still where they had been growing in the not very distant past. In Shaw Mason's Statistical Survey of Ireland, he writes that " almost the entire county about Ennistymon was, within the recollection of an old man, aged one hundred, who died about thirty or forty years ago (1810), covered with woods, mostly oak and ash full grown, and that he frequently shot wild pheasants in those woods." All that country, and indeed nearly all West Clare, is now bare and naked. The writer heard from his father that his grandfather used to tell how, when cattle strayed away in his youth, so covered with trees was the whole country between Tulla Quin and Kilkishen, that search had to be made for them through the glades of the woods. It is nearly all bare now. He heard himself, from old people near Bodyke, that the old people of their young days told of the slopes of the hills, all the way from Tomgraney to Broadford, being so thickly wooded that " a man might go from one place to the other along the branches of the trees almost without coming to the ground." There is not a tree there now. The new owners easily found markets for such valuable timber. It is traditionally stated that some old owners too, notably the absentee English O'Briens, stripped the hills round and above Killaloe of the noble oaks which adorned them, and of which were built some of the finest ships in the English navy.
The gloomy condition of plundered and downtrodden Claremen at home during all those years is relieved by the lustre which the exiles from the county shed on the name of Clare in the battlefields of Europe.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 160

First English settlement battle in Clare, 1235

near Clare · population centre · Clare · 1235

English and allied Connacht forces invaded Clare through its northern boundary; the Dalcassians under bad leadership of Donogh O'Brien suffered heavy losses in the first regular engagement on Clare soil since the invasion, followed by hostage-giving and a temporary peace.

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A few years later on, A.D. 1235, the greater part of Clare was mercilessly plundered. The English of Connaught were joined by the Irish there, who had suffered from the Dalcassian invasion, and made an unexpected onslaught through the northern boundary of the county. Felim, son of Cathal Crovdearg, got intimation of this movement, and hastened to the relief of the Dalcassians. A battle was fought, in which the Dalcassians suffered heavy loss through the bad leadership of Donogh O'Brien. The English and their allies were victorious. Both infantry and cavalry were clad in armour, and, though probably much inferior in numbers, were able to resist successfully the impetuous assault of the light-armed Irish. The men of Connaught retreated to their own country, and on the next day Donogh O'Brien made terms with the English, giving them hostages. This was the first regular ensacrement on the soil of Clare since the English invasion. It was followed by a temporary peace. Clare was at rest during the remaining years of the life of Donogh O'Brien. He died a.d. 1242, and was succeeded by his eldest son, Conor.
It does not appear that the English followed up their success. For a long time after this they made no permanent settlement in the county, except at Killaloe. The lull from the fatigues and terrors of war was availed of for a purpose, at all times dear to the Irish heart. It has been already stated that since the intrusion of the English so near Kincora, that celebrated palace was deserted, and Clonroad, near Ennis, became the residence of the Prince of Thomond. The first noteworthy act in the reign of Conor was the erection near his palace of that monastery for Franciscan friars, which even now, in its ruin and decay, gives clear evidence of the generous spirit of its founder, and of the architectural skill of the Clare builders of that so-called benighted period. The exact date of its foundation was, according to the Four Masters, the year 1247. It became at once the recognised centre of learning for the county, and for centuries after,

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 67

Fugitives from Ennis Sheltered at Gort Castle

Gort · townland · Galway · 1570

After the president's court was broken up at Ennis, the fleeing English party was pursued hotly by the Earl of Thomond and only found safety upon reaching the castle of Gort.

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consisting of English cavalry ^ and members of his own family with their retainers, was sent on the third day to summon him. He allowed some of the party within the gate ; then, closing it quickly, he made prisoners of them, and attacked those outside, killing such of them as were unable to escape by rapid flight into Ennis. The president broke up the court, and lied precipitately towards Connaught, being guided by Teigue and Morogh O'Brien through the difficult passes of that rocky region. The earl pursued them hotly, and only desisted when they had reached the shelter of the castle of Gort.
When Lord Justice Sir Henry Sydney heard of this outrage against the queen's representative, he despatched at once a large force, under the command of the Earl of Ormond, into Clare, to reduce the stubborn Dalcassians once more to submission. Being a first cousin of the earl, Ormond entered into a parley with him, and induced him to yield up without a blow the castles of Bunratty, Clare, and Clonroad, reserving to himself but one of his strongholds — that of Moy, in Kilfarboy. No sooner had he done this than he repented of such a tame surrender ; but, not being able to keep the field against the English, or recover his castles, he fled first into Kerry, then into France ; but finally, going into England, he humbled himself to Elizabeth, and was restored to favour. On his return to Ireland the following year, 1571, he put himself into communication with Sir Edward Fitton, yielding up the castle and town of Moy, which he had, on the former occasion, reserved to himself. The latter, having now the co-operation of the earl and his followers, opened a court at Ennis on St. Patrick's day, and for eighteen days presided over it. The jurisdiction of the court extended over the Clanrickard as well as the Dalcassian territory. This was the first formal recognition by the Dalcassian chiefs of English, as opposed to Brehon, law in Clare. The people generally had no part in it, and subsequent events proved that they were opposed to the surrender of this, as well as other rights, made in their name.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit

Lord Clare's regiment sails to France with 1,600 men in 1691

near Clare · population centre · Clare · 1691

Lord Clare's regiment, part of the famous 'Old Brigade' of the Irish exiles, numbered sixteen hundred men on their arrival in France in 1691 and was continually recruited from home as gaps appeared in its ranks.

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Lord Clare's regiment, forming part, and no inconsiderable part, of the famous " Old Brigade," numbered, on their arrival in Erance in 1691, sixteen hundred men, and was recruited from home, according as gaps were made, and not infrequently made, in its ranks. A letter from Lord Clare to one of the recruiting officers is well worth a place in any history of the county : —
308 HISTORY OF CLARE.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 160

MacBrody the Ollav dies at Ballybrody near Dysert

Ballybrody · townland · Clare

MacBrody, Ollav (chief poet) of Ibricken and Inchiquin, who lived undisturbed amid the surrounding conflicts at Ballybrody near Dysert, died and was succeeded in his office by his brother.

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In the midst of all this clamour, MacBrody, Ollav of Ibricken and Inchiquin, who lived undisturbed in the midst of the contending parties at Ballybrody, near Dysert, went to his account, and was succeeded in his office by his brother.
Donal, the returned prince, and Teigue his brother, who had been chosen Tanist of Thomond, united their forces with those of Morogh and Teigue of Inchiquin, and assumed once more the offensive. It appears that the Earl of Thomond was then residing at Eosroe in Clancuilean,^ relying a good deal on the support of the MacNamaras. A swoop was made in that direction, with the hope of capturing him as well as plundering Clancuilean. About one hundred of his troops were slain, but he escaped. The whole country, as the Four Masters put it, from Cratloe* to Kilkeady, and from Piinanna to Scariff, flew to arms. The invaders, however, made good their retreat without loss, carrying with them great booty.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 97

Magh-Lacha, birthplace of St Senan

Kilrush · town · Clare · 488

Various authors agree that Magh-Lacha, within about three miles of Kilrush, was the birthplace of St Senan in AD 488. A lake in the district, called St Senan's Lake, is still venerated with annual pilgrimages.

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The various authors who wrote of him agree in pointing out Magh-Lacha, within about three miles of Kilrush, as his birthplace. The lake in the district, called after him St. Senan's Lake, is held in great veneration. Every year crowds flock to it, performing pilgrimages in honour of the Saint, and seeking his intercession. His father's name was Ercau, his mother's Coemgilla. Very little that can be relied on is known of his early youth. The first noticeable incident was his being compelled to take arms under his chieftain in an attack upon the people of Corcomroe. But he made no use of those arms, feeling that the raid was unjust. The invaders were repulsed with great loss. Senan was taken prisoner, but God softened the hearts of his captors, and the peace-loving youth was set at liberty.
He now resolved to enter on a life of religion, and placed himself under the guidance, first of the Abbot Cassidan, and next of St. Naal (Natalis) of Kyle na Managh, in Ossory. I pass over various stories told of miraculous events in this part of his career. After some years with St. Naal, he was prevailed on to establish a monastery at or near Enniscorthy. The accounts given of his journey, soon after, to Rome, and of his intimacy with St. David of Wales, are not well founded. We next hear of his building a church at Inniscarra, — now the Great Island, — near Cork. Leaving this, as may well be inferred, in a flourishing condition, he turned his face towards his place of birth. He seems to have had a passionate desire for the establishment of monastic houses, and churches adjoining, in retired places suitable for contemplation, as on his way homewards he built again monasteries on the islands of

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kilrush, you are within about three miles of Magh-Lacha, the birthplace of St Senan, born in AD 488. Various authors agree on Magh-Lacha as his birthplace. His father was Ercau, his mother Coemgilla. A lake in the district, called St Senan's Lake, is held in great veneration. Every year crowds flock to it, performing pilgrimages in honour of the Saint and seeking his intercession. Very little that can be relied on is known of his early youth. The first noticeable incident was his being compelled to take arms under his chieftain in an attack upon the people of Corcomroe. But he made no use of those arms, feeling that the raid was unjust. The invaders were repulsed with great loss. Senan was taken prisoner, but God softened the hearts of his captors, and the peace-loving youth was set at liberty. He now resolved to enter on a life of religion, and placed himself under the guidance, first of the Abbot Cassidan, and next of St Naal of Kyle na Managh, in Ossory. After some years with St Naal, he was prevailed on to establish a monastery at or near Enniscorthy. The accounts given of his journey soon after to Rome, and of his intimacy with St David of Wales, are not well founded. He built a church at Inniscarra, now the Great Island, near Cork. Leaving this in a flourishing condition, he turned his face towards his place of birth. He seems to have had a passionate desire for the establishment of monastic houses, and churches adjoining, in retired places suitable for contemplation.

Monastic learning at Iniscatha and Holy Island

near Inishcaltra or Holy Island · townland · Clare · 800–1171

Classics and science were taught in the monasteries of Iniscatha and Holy Island, among other well-known seats of learning throughout pre-Norman Ireland, despite the destructive impact of Viking raids on Irish literature.

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It is not probable that learning was much cared for among the many, where intestine warfare was so very frequent. Only in the religious houses was any serious attention paid to it. In the ancient annals, those, for instance, of Innisfallen, commenced about a.d. 1000, and those of Boyle, covering the period of time from a.d. 420 to a.d, 1245, both carried on by the monks of those abbeys, there is interpersed a considerable share of Latin ; and there can be no doubt that classics and science were taught in the monasteries of Iniscatha and Holy Island, as well as in those other well-known seats of learning throughout all Ireland. There was, undoubtedly, great laxity

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 60

Morogh's invasion plunders Ossory to Glendalough and Kilmainham

Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

Morogh, Brian's son, led an army into Ossory, plundering the whole country as far as Glendalough and Kilmainham, and carried back great spoils and innumerable prisoners.

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Two years afterwards this same Morogh led an army into Ossory. What occasioned this invasion is not stated. Probably it was again to recover the tribute which caused so much bloodshed in the past ; but be it what it may, the punishment inflicted on the unfortunate inhabitants was very severe. The whole country as far as Glendalogh and Kilmainham was plundered, and Morogh carried back with him " great spoils and innumerable prisoners." From this forward, not only from Ossory, but from all Ii'eland, tribute flowed regularly to Kincora. Keating, translating from an ancient MS., styled Boroimhc Bailc na Bigh, gives the following : " From Connaught annually on the ] st of November 800 cows and 800 hogs. From Tyrconnell 500 cloaks or mantles and 500 cows. From Tyro wen 60 hogs and 60 loads of iron. The Clan Euraighe of Ulster were bound to furnish 150 cows and 150 hogs. The people of the Oriels 160 cows. From Leinster 300 beeves, 60 hogs.
62 HISTORY OF CLARE,

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 36

Moy Castle in Kilfarboy Reserved then Surrendered by Earl of Thomond

Moy · townland · Clare · 1570–1571

The Earl of Thomond initially reserved the castle of Moy in Kilfarboy for himself when surrendering his other strongholds, but on his return to Ireland in 1571 he also yielded up the castle and town of Moy to Sir Edward Fitton.

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When Lord Justice Sir Henry Sydney heard of this outrage against the queen's representative, he despatched at once a large force, under the command of the Earl of Ormond, into Clare, to reduce the stubborn Dalcassians once more to submission. Being a first cousin of the earl, Ormond entered into a parley with him, and induced him to yield up without a blow the castles of Bunratty, Clare, and Clonroad, reserving to himself but one of his strongholds — that of Moy, in Kilfarboy. No sooner had he done this than he repented of such a tame surrender ; but, not being able to keep the field against the English, or recover his castles, he fled first into Kerry, then into France ; but finally, going into England, he humbled himself to Elizabeth, and was restored to favour. On his return to Ireland the following year, 1571, he put himself into communication with Sir Edward Fitton, yielding up the castle and town of Moy, which he had, on the former occasion, reserved to himself. The latter, having now the co-operation of the earl and his followers, opened a court at Ennis on St. Patrick's day, and for eighteen days presided over it. The jurisdiction of the court extended over the Clanrickard as well as the Dalcassian territory. This was the first formal recognition by the Dalcassian chiefs of English, as opposed to Brehon, law in Clare. The people generally had no part in it, and subsequent events proved that they were opposed to the surrender of this, as well as other rights, made in their name.
In the following year a similar court was held under the J Four Masters.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit

New workhouse built in Tulla amid overcrowding crisis

Tulla · town · Clare · 1846–1848

As Clare's workhouses became crammed with famine victims, a new workhouse was erected in Tulla with auxiliaries added to others. These became traps for fever and pestilence due to overcrowding and insufficient food.

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Since the disfranchisement of the forty-shilling freeholders, the policy of giving leases was reversed, and those who cultivated the soil were made tenants at will. The law afforded every facility for eviction, and evictions became the order of the day. Whole villages in some instances were unroofed. The half-starved occupants had to find refuge in scal-ps — huts erected in dykes out of the debris of the broken-down houses. Xeedless to say, the workhouses in Clare were soon crammed. A new one was erected in Tulla, and auxiliaries added ou to
352 HISTORY OF CLARE.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 184

People refuse water to Spanish vessel at Kilrush and Liscannor

Kilrush · town · Clare · 1588

So terrified were the people of reprisal that water was refused to a Spanish vessel which had weathered the gale at Kilrush and Liscannor, even though an equal quantity of wine was offered in exchange.

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Sir Turlogh O'Brien of Ennistymon was commissioned, with the sheriff, by the Lord Deputy, to hunt up the Spaniards, with power " to use torture in process of this inquiry." So terrified were the people, that water was refused at Kilrush and Liscannor to a vessel which weathered the gale, though an equal quantity of wine was offered for it.
An epidemic of some kind must have raged through Clare in 1591 and the following years, as we find recorded in the Pour Masters the death of considerable numbers of the principal persons among the O'Briens, MacNamaras, and MacMahons.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 110

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kilrush, you're travelling a town touched by fear in 1588. A Spanish vessel that had weathered the gale put in here and at Liscannor, seeking water. The people refused, even though the crew offered an equal quantity of wine in exchange. They were terrified of reprisals. Sir Turlogh O'Brien of Ennistymon had been commissioned by the Lord Deputy, with the sheriff, to hunt up the Spaniards, with power to use torture in the inquiry. That threat hung over every harbour along this coast.

Rory O'Connor occupies island on Lough Derg to bar Shannon passage

near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Clare

Rory O'Connor anticipated attack by occupying in force an island at the northern side of Lough Derg, barring the Dalcassian passage up the Shannon, and defeated them when they attempted to dislodge him.

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The following year, however, was one of disaster for him. Eory O'Connor, his brother-in-law, anticipated attack by occupying in force an island at the northern side of Lough Derg, barring the passage up the Shannon. In an attempt to dislodge him from this position, the Dalcassians suffered a defeat with considerable loss. No better fortune awaited them later on, when, sailing round by the Atlantic, an attack was made on Connaught from the sea. They were again repulsed, and Rory, taking advantage of the confusion consequent on those defeats, marched into Corcomroe, devastating all before him, but losing three of his chieftains, who were intercepted and slain. There followed a still greater collapse. Donal MacLaughlin, of the Northern
88

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 49

Schomberg's Williamite force lands at Bangor, Co. Down

near Bangor · town · Down · 1689

The first contingent of William's army, under General Duke Schomberg, arrived at Bangor in County Down on 13 August 1689, drawing Williamite followers in the North to his standard.

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William determined to try out the issue with James on Irish ground as soon as possible. The first contingent of his army, under General Duke Schomberg, arrived at Bangor, in Co. Down, on the 13th of August 1689. The followers of William in the North rallied to his standard, and an army of about 30,000 men, composed of well-trained Dutch, Danes, French Huguenots, and English, was ready to take the field. After some not very important successes, they were sent into winter quarters, where almost one-third, some say, succumbed to sickness arising from insufficient supplies and the inclemency of the weather. James's army, numbering about 20,000 Irish and French, being better supplied, was in far better fighting condition. He in vain offered battle to Schomberg, and is blamed for not forcing it at all costs ; but the courage
1 This is, I think, a misprint for Florence MacNamara, who was certainly one of King James's burgesses for the borough of Enuis.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 142

Siege of Lough Gur castle raised by Dalcassian intervention

near Lough Gur · lake or lakes · Limerick · 1516

John Fitz Gerald held the strong fortress at Lough Gur near Bruff as his portion, and when besieged by his brother James and a large allied force, called on the Dalcassians for aid. The formidable besieging force withdrew without a blow at the Dalcassians' approach in 1516.

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Kerry, and the Knight of Glynn, with their followers, but also the whole strength of the MacCarthy and O'Connor Kerry clans. John Fitz Gerald, after making all possible provision for a successful defence of his castle, went with all haste to claim assistance from his wife's people, the Dal- Gas. They promptly took up his quarrel and marched with him, being reinforced by some of the Butlers, to raise the siege. It is proof of the respect in which the fighting qualities of the Dalcassians was held, that the formidable English and Irish force withdrew at their approach, without waiting to strike a blow,^ and took ilight from the beleaguered fort. The Dalcassians returned in triumph to Clare, leaving John FitzGerald in quiet possession of his patrimony.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 88

Sioda Cam MacNamara slain in Limerick

Limerick · city · Limerick · 1370

Sioda Cam MacNamara assumed the wardenship of Limerick after its capture, but the English in the town acted treacherously towards him and killed him.

Read the passage

on the 1st of July to the English of Munster, at Aenagh on the Maigne, near the great monastery founded in 1151 by Turlogh O'Brien, in the county of Limerick. The latter suffered a severe defeat. Garret, Earl of Desmond, John FitzXicholas, Sir Thomas FitzJohn, and many other nobles, were taken prisoners by the O'Briens and MacNamaras,^ while their army was routed after great slaughter. They then turned upon the city of Limerick, and, taking it by assault, having burned part of it, compelled the English garrison to surrender. Sioda Cam MacXamara, " son of the daughter of O'Dwyre," assumed the wardenship of the town, but the English who were in the town acted treacherously towards him, and killed him.-
Civil war again broke out in Clare. The English, under the command of Eichard de Burgho, espoused the cause of the banished Turlogh, Brian's uncle, and, coming in great force, compelled Brian to fly. They then invaded the territory of the MacNamaras, whose prince, Loughlin Laudher (the Strong), not being taken by surprise, like Brian, was able to make a stout resistance. Under the able leadership of his youngest son, Hugh, this warlike clan utterly defeated De Burgho, A.D. 1377, with great loss, among the slain being some of the Connaught chiefs who ranged themselves under the English banner. This success prepared the way for the return to power of Brian Catha an Aenagh, who was married to MacNamara's daughter. This prince wisely made terms with De Burgho, giving him his daughter in marriage, and thus detached him from the cause of his rival, Turlogh Mael.

Internet Archive historyofclareda00whit, Chapter 76

As the companion tells it

As you come through Limerick, this city holds a story from 1370. On the 1st of July, the O'Briens and MacNamaras met the English of Munster at Aenagh on the Maigne, near the great monastery founded in 1151 by Turlogh O'Brien in the county of Limerick. The English suffered a severe defeat. Garret, Earl of Desmond, John FitzNicholas, Sir Thomas FitzJohn, and many other nobles, were taken prisoners by the O'Briens and MacNamaras, while their army was routed after great slaughter. The victors then turned upon the city of Limerick. Taking it by assault, having burned part of it, they compelled the English garrison to surrender. Sioda Cam MacNamara, described as "son of the daughter of O'Dwyre," assumed the wardenship of the town. But the English who were in the town acted treacherously towards him, and killed him. After his death, civil war broke out again in Clare. The English, under Richard de Burgho, took up the cause of the banished Turlogh, Brian's uncle, and coming in great force, compelled Brian to fly. They then invaded the territory of the MacNamaras. Loughlin Laudher the Strong, prince of the MacNamaras, was not taken by surprise as Brian had been, and was able to make a stout resistance. Under the leadership of his youngest son, Hugh, the clan defeated de Burgho in 1377, with great loss, among the slain being some of the Connaught chiefs who had ranged themselves under the English banner. This success prepared the way for the return to power of Brian, who was married to MacNamara's daughter. He made terms with de Burgho, giving him his daughter in marriage, and thus detached him from the cause of his rival, Turlogh Mael.

History of Clare and the Dalcassian clans of Tipperary, Limerick, and Galway ... with an ancient and a modern map

The stories, best first

Siege of O'Donnell's fortress of Ballyshannon

Sir John Davies describes Clare's freeholders and Protestant enforcement

St Colman MacDuagh's hermitage and the Pass of the Dishes

Surrender of Clarecastle and Carrigaholt to Ludlow

The oratories of Bishop's Island near Kilkee

The Tuameens near Tulla

William Culliner of Bunratty's shoemaker deposition

William's army encamped at Singland during siege of Limerick

Kilrush bench warns against aiding Fenian fugitives

Tradition of the sunken land between Baltard and Hag's Head

Battle of Kilbarron near Feakle

Battle of Knocklong: Cormac's Defeat by the Munster Men

Beehive cells of Bishop's Island

Brian fortifies Roscrea, Cahir, Bruree and Limerick

Bryan Merriman of Kilmihil writes 'Courth-Ban-Oithe' while teaching at Feacle

Capture of Inchicronan Castle

Council of Armagh frees Saxon slaves

Death of Diarmid at Cork

Death of Monarch Aodh Enforcing the Boromean Tribute

Ennis meeting effects change from Brehon to English land tenure

Gothic church built to preserve the Ark

Killaloe men whipped by Major Purdon's yeomanry

MacMahon repel sea-borne attack near Carrigaholt

Mortogh's grant of Cashel of the Kings to religious of Ireland

O'Gorman Mahon's Fiery Justice at Quin Petty Sessions

Pierce Creagh granted secure lands near English quarters

Policy of bribing chiefs with plunder of clans inaugurated at Limerick

Reverend Twembrooke of Dysert's exaggerated deposition

Siege and capture of Limerick from English garrison

Siege of Limerick and flight of Turlogh O'Brien

St Patrick blesses Thomond from Knoc Patrick

Violation of the church of Lusk by Donogh's forces

Workhouses established across Clare to relieve famine distress

1885 election: Nationalists overwhelm Conservatives in Clare

Abbey of Corcomroe built by Donal Mor O'Brien

Battle of Lachen in Kilmihil parish

Bishop Mahon O'Griffy buried at Canon Island

Brian's offering of gold at Armagh

Cormac's gifts to religious houses before his fatal expedition

Death of Donal, Bishop of Killaloe

De Clare's force cut to pieces recalled near O'Dea/O'Quin territory

Dense woodland between Tulla and Kilkishen recalled by tradition

Donogh defeats O'Ruarck at Clonfert

Donogh inaugurated prince at Magh-Adhair

English attempt to build a castle at Killaloe repelled

English O'Briens stripped the noble oaks above Killaloe

First English settlement battle in Clare, 1235

Fugitives from Ennis Sheltered at Gort Castle

Lord Clare's regiment sails to France with 1,600 men in 1691

MacBrody the Ollav dies at Ballybrody near Dysert

Magh-Lacha, birthplace of St Senan

Monastic learning at Iniscatha and Holy Island

Morogh's invasion plunders Ossory to Glendalough and Kilmainham

Moy Castle in Kilfarboy Reserved then Surrendered by Earl of Thomond

New workhouse built in Tulla amid overcrowding crisis

People refuse water to Spanish vessel at Kilrush and Liscannor

Rory O'Connor occupies island on Lough Derg to bar Shannon passage

Schomberg's Williamite force lands at Bangor, Co. Down

Siege of Lough Gur castle raised by Dalcassian intervention

Sioda Cam MacNamara slain in Limerick