Name: The history of the county and city of Cork (vol. 1)
Author: Charles Bernard Gibson

Arrest of De Courcy at Downpatrick church

near Downpatrick · town · Down

On Good Friday, while John de Courcy paced unarmed around the church of Downpatrick in solitary contemplation, Hugh de Lacy's men attacked him. De Courcy tore up the wooden cross, his only weapon, killed thirteen assailants, but was eventually overpowered, seized, and shipped to England for imprisonment in the Tower of London.

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clamation, offering a large reward to any one who would deliver up De Courcy, dead or alive. It was Good Friday — Bad Friday for De Courcy. On that day, as our Annalists inform us, he bore no arms, and wore no armour, but was wholly given up to divine contemplation. Now pacing, " all solitary," round the church of Downpatrick, and now kneeling before a huge wooden cross, perhaps mentally ejaculating a Salus in Cruse, or a Sub hoc signo mnces, or his own motto, Vincet omnia veritas, when, — tl The Philistines are upon thee, Sampson." He tears up the cross; his only weapon, and lays about him with all his herculean might, leaving thirteen of his assailants dead at his feet. But he is at length overpowered by numbers, seized, bound, and shipped to England, where he is condemned to perpetual imprisonment in the Tower of London.
" He lieth low in a dungeon now, Powerless, in proud despair, For false King John hath cast him in, And closely chained him there."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 17

Imprisoned Munster lords in saffron shirts at Dublin Castle

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1543

Lord Roche and the White Knight, formerly enemies who could not share a forty-mile country, were lodged together in Dublin Castle in 1543 and reconciled. St. Leger noted they wore only 'saffren shurtes and heinoghes cotes' and were so poor their combined wealth could not clothe them or pay for one quarter's board.

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" I met the Earl of Desmond, to whom I had before written for the redress of many evil behavours, committed by the Lord Roche and the White Knight, which be two that long have been out of good order, and yet Englishmen, the one having destroyed the other's country; the same earl [of Desmond], according to his bounden duty to your majesty, repaired to their said countries, and took them both, and brought them to me, to your highness's castle of Caterlagh, where he delivered them to me to be punished, as shall appertain; and so I have laid them both in your castle of Dublin, where now they agree very well together, and lye bothe in one bedde, that before could not agree in a country of forty miles in length between them, and under their rule. I purpose they shall there remain till their amity be better confirmed, and then, God willing, and your high pleasure so known, I intend to send them home free, and apparel them like Englishmen; for now they be in ther saffren shurtes and heinoghes cotes. I must of force so do, or else drive them to great extremity, for I think they both, with all their riches, would not buy themselves one apparel, and pay for their board in your said castle for one quarter of a year; and yet I am sure their lands, \vell ordered, would make them both great lordes. I trust in God this shall be to them sufficient warning from hence forth.
" And for that the same Earl of Desmond hath not only been diligent in this, but in all other his proceedings, to do your majesty's service according to his bounden duty, I can no less than humbly beseech your highness to regard him according to your princely goodness, the man being poor, and not able to serve your grace as his harte wolde." — State Papers, vol. w..,pp. 466, 467.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 77

Escape through Wicklow to Glenmalure

near Glenmalur · valley · Wicklow

After escaping Dublin, Hugh Roe O'Donnell and the sons of O'Neill fled through the snow-covered Wicklow mountains. Art O'Neill died of exposure on the Red Mountain, and Hugh was brought to Fiagh O'Byrne's house in Glenmalure with severe frostbite.

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the sons of O'Neill, catch their keeper napping. Theymanage to knock off their irons, to scale the walls, and cross the ditch, and away to the wilds of Wicklow. It is a winter's night ; the snow falls heavy on their thin garments, as they cross the Red Mountain. Hugh, though the youngest, bears up manfully, but Art is exhausted, and can proceed no further. They cannot desert him, so they all lie down beneath the shelter of a rock, and send a faithful messenger to the house of Fiagh 0' Byrne, of Glenmalur, * for aid. The aid is willingly afforded, but it comes too late for Art. His body lies in its white shroud of snow. They buried him where he died, and bore Hugh, more dead than alive, to the house, with his feet fearfully frost-bitten. When able to ride, he pushed on through Meath, to the banks of the Boyne, where he was met by his brother-in-law, Hugh O'Neill, who had a ferry-boat in waiting to convey him to the other side of the river ; and from thence, through a dense grove, " to a fine mansion-house belonging to a distinguished English youth, f wno was a particular friend of O'Neill."
It was by such base and treacherous conduct that the Irish or English governments of those days put an edge on the weapons of Irish chieftains. Sir John Norris, and his brother, Sir Thomas, the President of Munster, are now about to measure swords with these

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 130

Perkin Warbeck's declaration about arrival in Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1492–1499

Perkin Warbeck declared before his execution that upon arriving in Cork, the townspeople insisted he was the Duke of Clarence's son. The mayor, John Lavallin, brought him the Holy Evangelists and the cross, and he swore he was not of the duke's blood. Stephen Poyton and John Walter then persuaded him to claim to be Richard, Duke of York.

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" I, being born in Flanders, in the town of Tournay, put myself in service with a Breton called Pregaut Meno, who brought me with him into Ireland, and when we there arrived, in the town of Cork, they of the town, because I was arrayed with some clothes of silk of my said master, threaped upon me that I should be che Duke of Clarence his son, that was before-time at Dublin ; and forasmuch as I denied it, there was brought unto me the Holy Evangelists, and the cross, by the mayor of the town, called John Lavallin,* and there I took my oath that I was not the said duke's son, nor none of his blood. After this there came unto me an Englishman, whose name was Stephen Poyton, with one John Walter, and swore to me that they knew well that I was King Richard's bastard son ; to whom I answered, with like oaths, that I was not : then they advised me not to be afraid, but that I should take it upon me boldly ; and if I would so do, they would assist me with all their power, against the king of England, and not only they, but they were assured that the Earls of Desmond and Kildare should do the same; for they cared not what part they took so they might be avenged on the king of England ; so against my will, they made me to learn English, and taught me what I should do and say ; after this, they called me Richard, Duke of York, second son
* The Mayor of the town, called John Lavallin. He was mayor in 1492, 1496, and 1498. There was a Richard Lavallin, mayor in 1455, very likely John's father.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 44

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Cork. The city has a strange claim from the 1490s. Perkin Warbeck, before his execution, made a declaration about what happened to him here. He said he was born in Flanders, in the town of Tournay, and put himself in service with a Breton called Pregaut Meno, who brought him to Ireland. When they arrived in Cork, the townspeople saw he was wearing some silk clothes of his master's, and they insisted he was the Duke of Clarence's son, who had been before-time at Dublin. He denied it. The mayor of the town, John Lavallin, brought him the Holy Evangelists and the cross, and he took his oath that he was not the duke's son, nor of his blood. After that, an Englishman named Stephen Poyton came to him with one John Walter. They swore they knew well he was King Richard's bastard son. He answered them with like oaths that he was not. Then they advised him not to be afraid, but to take it upon him boldly, and if he would do so, they would assist him with all their power against the king of England. They said the Earls of Desmond and Kildare would do the same, for they cared not what part they took so they might be avenged on the king. Against his will, they made him learn English, and taught him what he should do and say. After this, they called him Richard, Duke of York, second son.

Spanish vessels arrive at Castlehaven

Castlehaven · townland · Cork · 1601

O'Donnell marched over thirty-two Irish miles without rest through Muskerry to Castlehaven, where six Spanish vessels carrying troops, ordnance and munition had arrived. Donach O'Drishall delivered his castle at Castlehaven, which commanded the harbour, to the Spanish forces.

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O'Donnell, who made, without rest, " the greatest march with cariage that hath beene heard of" — above thirty-two Irish miles — passed through Muskerry to Castlehaven, where six Spanish vessels with troops and great store of ordnance and munition had arrived. O'Neill came to the south about the same time, and encamped at no great distance from the English lines. These arrivals gave great confidence to the Irish chieftains, the most of whom gave up their castles to be garrisoned by Spanish troops :
" Untill this time none of the provincials of Mounster, that had beene either protected or pardoned, relapsed ; but now upon the comming of these seconds to Castlehaven, Sir Finnin O'Drischall and all the O'Drischalls, Sir Owen MacCartie's sonnes, and almost all the Carties in Carbrie, Donnell O'Sulevan Beare, O'Sulevans More's eldest son, Donnell Mac Cartie, the Earle of Clan-Care's base sonne, with all the Carties of Desmond, John O'Conner Kerry, the Knight of Kerry, all the protected and pardoned men in Kerry and Desmond, and all else from Kinsale and Limericke westwards, joyned with O 'Donnell and the Spaniards ; whereat Kttle wonder is to bee made, considering what power religion and gold hath in the hearts of men, both which the Spaniards brought with them into Ireland. Donach O'Drischall delivered unto them his castle at Castlehaven, which commanded the harbour; Sir Finnin O'Drischall (who never in the course of his whole life had beene tainted with the least spot of disloyaltie) rendred unto them his castle of Donneshed at Baltimore, and his castle of Donnelong, in the island of Inisherkan, betwene which castles all entrances into that haven was debarred; and Donnell O'Sulevan surrendered unto them his strong castle of Dunboy, which absolutely commands Bearehaven ; these three harbours being without all exception che best in the west of Mounster."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 165

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Castlehaven, in 1601, Spanish vessels arrived carrying troops, ordnance and munition. O'Donnell had marched over 32 Irish miles without rest to reach this point, passing through Muskerry. The source calls it 'the greatest march with cariage that hath beene heard of.' Six Spanish vessels came into the harbour. O'Neill came south about the same time and encamped not far from the English lines. These arrivals gave great confidence to the Irish chieftains, most of whom gave up their castles to be garrisoned by Spanish troops. Until this time, none of the provincials of Munster who had been protected or pardoned had relapsed. But now, with the coming of these seconds, they joined with O'Donnell. Sir Finnin O'Drischall and all the O'Drischalls, Sir Owen MacCartie's sons, almost all the Carties in Carbrie, Donnell O'Sulevan Beare, O'Sulevans More's eldest son, Donnell MacCartie, the Earl of Clan-Care's base son, with all the Carties of Desmond, John O'Conner Kerry, the Knight of Kerry, all the protected and pardoned men in Kerry and Desmond, and all from Kinsale and Limerick westwards joined with O'Donnell and the Spaniards. The source says little wonder, considering 'what power religion and gold hath in the hearts of men, both which the Spaniards brought with them into Ireland.' Donach O'Drishall delivered his castle here, which commanded the harbour. Sir Finnin O'Drischall, who had never been tainted with disloyalty, rendered his castle of Donneshed at Baltimore and his castle of Donnelong in the island of Inisherkan, between which all entrances into that haven were debarred. Donnell O'Sulevan surrendered his strong castle of Dunboy, which absolutely commands Bearehaven. These three harbours were without exception the best in the west of Munster.

Surprise night attack on Captain Tirrell's camp in Muskerry

near Muskerry · street · Cork

Captain Tirrell was encamped in woods and bogs on the western confines of Muskerry, with rocky mountains on either side. Sir Samuel Bagnall's forces attempted a night surprise, but a soldier's accidental gunshot raised the alarm; Tirrell fled in his shirt and about eighty of his men were slain.

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But what of that most inveterate rebel, Captain Tirrell? Now or never, says the president, is the time to attack this daring freebooter. The moment he hears of Mac Carthy's submission, he is off among the mountains of Kerry. Sir Samuel Bagnall is ordered on his track, and if possible to intercept him, or take him by surprise. He finds Tirrell encamped in the midst of woods and bogs, on the western confines of Muskerry. One of the Mac Carthys of Muskerry, Owen Mac Teige, of Drishane, approaches his wild camp by night, and returns in safety, and informs Bagnall that the enemy is lying in three divisions, with a "strong wood" at their back ; a bog, half an Irish mile wide, in their front ; and " cragged and rocky mountains " on either side. The colonel resolves to attack the three divisions together. The night is pitch dark ; the English steal along, within a furlong of the camp ; they have no doubt of surprising it, for all seem sunk in sleep, when a soldier — an Irishman, we suspect — stumbles, and his gun goes off — those sort of accidents often occurred under similar circumstances. The alarm is given ; Tirrell runs away in his shirt, his wife at his heels in no better plight. About eighty of his men are slain. Her majesty's troops not only took the usual spoil of cows, sheep, and horses, but " some remnants of velvet," gold and silver lace, English apparel in satin and velvet, and "a portmanteau," containing a quantity of Spanish coin. Captain Tirrell was as fond of " brave attire " as Sir Walter Raleigh, He was fearfully enraged at the loss of his portmanteau, and all the velvet, satin, gold and silver lace, and Spanish coin it contained, and wreaked his ven-
414 HISTOfiY OF CORK.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 187

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Muskerry, Captain Tirrell was encamped in woods and bogs on the western confines, with rocky mountains on either side. He was lying in three divisions, a strong wood at their back and a bog half an Irish mile wide in front. When word came of Mac Carthy's submission, Tirrell made for the mountains of Kerry, and Sir Samuel Bagnall was sent after him to take him by surprise. Owen Mac Teige of Drishane, one of the Mac Carthys of Muskerry, crept up to the camp by night and came back safely to tell Bagnall how the enemy was posted. Bagnall resolved to hit all three divisions at once. The night was pitch dark and the English stole within a furlong of the sleeping camp, certain of surprise, until a soldier stumbled and his gun went off. The alarm was raised. Tirrell ran away in his shirt, his wife at his heels in no better state. About 80 of his men were slain. The troops took the usual cows, sheep, and horses, but also remnants of velvet, gold and silver lace, satin and velvet apparel, and a portmanteau full of Spanish coin. Tirrell was as fond of

Saint Patrick baptises Aenghus on the Rock of Cashel

near Rock of Cashel · rock or rocks · Tipperary · 450–499

Aenghus, the first Christian king of Munster, received baptism from Saint Patrick on the Rock of Cashel. During the ceremony, Patrick's crosier pierced the king's foot to the bone, which Aenghus bore without wincing, supposing it part of the rite.

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The murder of Mahon was fearfully avenged, more than a century after, by the murder of Cormac, the bishop king of Desmond, one of the progenitors of the noble house of Mac Carthy. The Mac Carthy's are tho descendants of Aenghus, the first Christian king of Munster. He flourished in the fifth century. He received the rite of baptism from the hands of the great Irish Apostle, Saint Patrick, on the Eock of Cashel. An interesting circumstance, well calculated to put the faith of the new convert to the test, occurred on that occasion. Saint Patrick's crosier was so placed as to pierce the king's foot to the bone. He supposing it to be part of the ceremony of initiation, bore it like a Christian soldier, without wincing. Aenghus fell in battle at Cell-Osnadha.f There is a story that his
* Donovan's allies, t/ie Danes of Limerick :—" A battle was gained by Brian, son of Ceinneidigh, over the foreigners of Luimneacb, and Donnabhan, son of Cathal, Lord of Ui-Fidbgeinte, wberein tbe foreigners of Luimneach were defeated and slaughtered."— lour Masters, AD. 976.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Rock of Cashel, Saint Patrick baptised Aenghus, the first Christian king of Munster, in the fifth century. During the ceremony Patrick's crosier pierced the king's foot to the bone. Aenghus bore it without wincing, supposing it part of the rite. He was a progenitor of the house of Mac Carthy, and later fell in battle at Cell-Osnadha.

Clancarty's devastating raid on Lord Roche at Castletown

Castletownroche · town · Cork · 1568

Lord Roche wrote from Castletown on September 14th that the Earl of Clancarty, with several banners displayed, had taken 1,500 kine, burned 7,000 sheep, all his corn, and killed many men, women, and children. He requested a commission to retaliate.

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Lord Eoche, who writes, September 14th, from Castletown, "The Earl of Clancarty, accompanied by M'Donoky, O'Kyve, M'Auly, O'Donocowe More, O'Sullivan More's son, Edmond M'Swyny, and others, with six or seven banners displayed, has taken l,500kine, burned 7,000 sheep, all his corn, and a great number of men, women, and children." He therefore desires " a commission to hurt the said earl."
The Lords Justices write to the Earl of Clancare of the horrible excesses complained of by Lord Eoche, trust they are not altogether true, and command him to make restitution to the extent of the injury done. They speak of Lord Eoche's loyalty ; say that his services merit the protection of the government, and call upon Lord Barry More, Sir Dermot Mac Teig, the mayor of Cork, the sheriff of the county of Cork, the sovereigns of Kilmallock and Kinsale, to aid the Lord Eoche against Clancare. Such a call to arms was eminently calculated to foment the dissensions and civil war which the government professed to discountenance, but England possessed no other means of punishing violence or rebellion.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 96

Kidnapping of Hugh Roe O'Donnell at Lough Swilly

near Lough Swilly · estuary · Donegal

A ship arrived at Lough Swilly with crew posing as merchants selling wine. Hugh Roe O'Donnell was invited aboard, the hatches were closed, and the vessel sailed away with him captive.

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The illegal kidnapping and unjust imprisonment of Hugh Roe O'Donnell, by Sir John Perrott, * led to much evil. This noble young Irish chieftain never forgot nor forgave what he endured on that occasion. It was the recollection of all he suffered while a mere youth that hastened his march, at the head of an army, to aid the Spaniards at Kinsale. Treachery in rulers is short-sighted policy. The English government feared, if the lad arrived at maturity, he would join with his brother-in-law, O'Neill, whose loyalty was strongly suspected ; it was therefore resolved to remove him from the north. A ship arrives at Lough Swilly, some of the crew come ashore in a small boat, as merchantmen ; they have wine to sell. The inhabitants of the neighbourhood buy, and drink to intoxication. The young chieftain comes up and is invited, with a select party, aboard. The invitation is accepted. In the midst of their conviviality, the hatches are closed, and the vessel sails out of the harbour.
The Dublin council are " rejoiced at the arrival of Hugh,'' and order him to be confined in a " strong stone castle," — the Bermiugham Tower. After three years' imprisonment, he attempts to escape, f but is retaken and loaded with irons, to the l( grief, indignation, and despair " of his people. He tries again, and succeeds. It is night. Hugh, with Henry, and Art,

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 130

Macroom Castle destroyed by accidental pig-singeing fire

Macroom · town · Cork · 1602

Macroom Castle, seated in the heart of Muskerry and environed with woods and bogs, resisted sieges by Captain Flower and Sir Charles Wilmot. It was destroyed when warders, lacking water to scald a killed pig, singed it instead; the fire caught the thatch and then the castle, allowing troops to seize the ruins.

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This Lord of Muskerry was possessed of two other castles, which were deemed of "good importance to command the country, the castle of Kilcrea,* and the castle of Macroom." Kilcrea was rendered — we are not told how — to Captain Slingsby, whom the president sent there to take possession. The case was different with Macroom, seated in the heart of Muskerry, and environed about with woods and bogs. The president sent Captain Flower, and afterwards Sir Charles Wilmot, to lie before it, and gain it by sap or mine, or other stratagem. That which Sir Charles could not accomplish, was done by a very simple accident. The warders having killed a pig, and having " no water to scald the same, were constrained to singe her, as the manner of some countries is." The fire caught the thatch of a cabin, within the bawn, and then the castle. The guard rush out, when about fifty of them are slain, and the smouldering ruins possessed by the Lord President's troops, by whom it is furnished, victualled, and rendered tenable.
"We have related, in a previous part of this history, how the Lord President sent to London for the son of the great outlawed Earl of Desmond, in order to pit

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 186

Murder of Archbishop John Allen at Artane

Artaine · parish · Dublin · 1534

Archbishop John Allen, chaplain to Wolsey and enemy of the Fitzgeralds, was murdered at Artane in 1534 by John Telying and Nicholas Walter at the instigation of Lord Thomas Fitzgerald (Silken Thomas), who suspected Allen was responsible for his father's imprisonment in the Tower. Thomas and his five uncles were later executed at Tyburn.

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The Archbishop concludes his letter by promising Cromwell, when he is "half ought of dett, one hobby, one hawk, and one Lymeryke mantle, which are things for a gentleman's pleasure in these partes." Sad to say, John of Dublin was murdered at Artane, in 1534, by John Telying and Nicholas Walter, at the instance and procurement of Lord Thomas Fitzgerald, better known as Silken Thomas,* whose father, at this time, lay prisoner in the Tower. Allen, who had been chaplain to Wolsey, was the enemy of the Fitzgeralds. Silken Thomas suspected that his father's imprisonment was owing to him. Allen was brought as a prisoner before the young Geraldine, then in arms and rebellion. Beir naim an bodach, " Remove the churl from my presence," said the enraged young noble, pointing to Allen. His men removed him with a vengeance. Thomas, with his five uncles, were afterwards executed at Tyburn.
The state paper, No. 81, is " The copie of the curse given Thomas Fitzgerald and others for kyllyng the Archbusshop ofDublyn" which is hot and heavy enough.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 52

Murder of Mahon at Bruree (976)

Bruree · town · Limerick · 976

Donovan, prince of Cairbre, treacherously seized Mahon, brother of Brian Boru, at his house in Bruree despite guarantees of safety from the Bishop of Cork. Mahon was delivered to Molloy and Ivor and murdered, an event which triggered Brian Boru's revenge.

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A.D. 976. " Donovan, son of Cathal, Prince of Cairbre Ardhbha, treacherously seized upon Mahon, son of Kennedy, in his own house, at Brugh-righ, where he was under the protection of Colum, son of Ciaragan, Bishop of Cork, (successor of Barra.) who guaranteed his safety, to make peace with Maolmhuadh, son of Bran, to whom, and to whose brothers, Teige and Brian Donovan treacherously delivered ftiahon, who was murdered by them, without respect to the. saint [recte, holy man] who had ensured his safety."
We have a more circumstantial account of this murder and its consequences, in a curious Irish work, called Cogadh Gaeidheai re Gallaibh, that is, " War of the Gaels [or Irish] with the Danes." We give an abstract from Doctor 0' Donovan's translation : —

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 2

O'Donnell evades English force near Holycross

Holycross · townland · Tipperary · 1601

Lord President Carew was dispatched with about 3,000 men to intercept O'Donnell marching to relieve Kinsale. Despite camping within four miles of each other near Holycross in Tipperary, O'Donnell slipped past, aided by local sympathisers who refused to provide intelligence to the English.

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Intelligence was at this time communicated that O'Donnell was on his march to the relief of Kinsale. The Lord President is dispatched, much against his will, with a force of about three thousand men, two thirds of whom were Irish, to intercept the northern chieftain. O'Donnell managed to give the president the slip, near Holy Cross, in the county of Tipperary, although they lay one night within four miles of each other ; but the country, as Stafford or Sir George says, " stood so partially effected to the traitors, as by no promise of reward or other satisfaction could they be induced to draw any drought upon them," or get any information of O'Donnell's movements from them.
It would appear from the examination of Dermot Mac Carthy, or Don Dermutio, who was made prisoner at the siege of Eincurran Castle, that the president was in danger of being arrested and delivered into the hands of Don Juan, by Cormac Mac Dermot, Lord of Muskerry, and his captains and followers, who composed a large portion of the army. Sir George says, — but it is after Don Dermutio's examination, — " I ate with him, and many times had private conference with him, not seeming to take notice of any of his treacherous ways." Sir George gave himself credit for great shrewdness and penetration. But it is quite possible that Florence's Spanish agent may have

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 164

O'Neill encamps near Kinsale, besieging the besiegers

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1601

O'Neill positioned himself on a wooded, water-defended hill about a mile and a half from the English camp at Kinsale, placing the English between two threats: Irish horse by day and Spanish sorties by night, cutting off hay, corn, water, and fuel from the Lord Justice's camp.

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O'Neill showed himself on a hill about a mile and a half from the English camp, where he had " a fastness of wood and water." The English were now between two fires — the besiegers were besieged. During the day the Tyrone horse hovered round their camp ; at night the Spaniards made sorties upon their entrenchments. Although their artillery played upon the town, they " had no meaning to make a breach." This was the state of things when Don Juan pressed the Irish general to attack the English camp, and throw provisions into Kinsale: —
" The Irish reduced the English to great straits, for they did not permit hay, corn, or water, straw or fuel, to be taken into the Lord Justice's camp. They remained thus for some time, watching each other, until Don Juan, the general of the Spaniards, sent a letter privately to the Irish, requesting them to attack a part of the Lord Justice's camp «n a certain night, and (adding) that he

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 166

As the companion tells it

As you come near Kinsale, you're passing the ground where O'Neill made his stand in 1601. He showed himself on a hill about a mile and a half from the English camp, where he had a fastness of wood and water. The English were now between two fires. The besiegers were besieged. During the day the Tyrone horse hovered round their camp. At night the Spaniards made sorties upon their entrenchments. Although the English artillery played upon the town, they had no meaning to make a breach. The Irish reduced the English to great straits. They did not permit hay, corn, or water, straw or fuel, to be taken into the Lord Justice's camp. They remained thus for some time, watching each other, until Don Juan, the general of the Spaniards, sent a letter privately to the Irish, requesting them to attack a part of the Lord Justice's camp on a certain night, and adding that he

St. Leger and Maguire killed near Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1600

During O'Neill's southern campaign of 1600, Sir Warham St. Leger and Hugh Maguire, Lord of Fermanagh, encountered each other about a mile from Cork and dealt each other mortal wounds. The Pacata Hibernia relates that St. Leger, riding out of the city for recreation, was suddenly charged by Maguire in a narrow way; St. Leger shot Maguire with a pistol and was struck in the head by Maguire's horseman's staff.

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" Sir Warham St. Leger and Sir Henry Power, riding out of the citie for recreation, to take the aire, accompanied with sundry captaines and gentlemen, with a few horse for their guard, not dreaming of an enemie neere at hande, carelessly riding every one as he thought good ; within a mile of the towne, or little more, Sir Warham St. Leger and one of his servants, a little straggling from his companie, was in a narrow way suddenly charged by Macguire, who, with some horse (likewise dispersed) had spread a good circuit of ground, in hope either to get some bootie, or to have the killing of some subjects. They charged each other ; Sir Warham Discharged his pistoll and shot the traytor, and hee [St. Leger] was strucken with the other's [Maguire's] horseman's staffe in the head, of which wounds either [each] of them dyed, but none else on either side was slaine."
This Hugh Maguire was Lord of Fermanagh, and a commander of cavalry under Hugh O'Neill. Sir John Davies says, — " Hugh Macguire, that was slaine in Munster, was indeed a valiant rebel, and the stoutest that ever was of his name."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 145

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, you are near the spot where Sir Warham St. Leger and Hugh Maguire killed each other in 1600. St. Leger had ridden out of the city for recreation, with captains, gentlemen, and a few horse for guard, not expecting any enemy nearby. Within a mile of the town, he and a servant straggled from the company, and in a narrow way were suddenly charged by Maguire, who had spread his horse across the countryside hoping for booty or to kill some subjects. St. Leger discharged his pistol and shot Maguire, and Maguire struck St. Leger in the head with his horseman's staff. Both died of their wounds, and no one else on either side was killed. This Hugh Maguire was Lord of Fermanagh and a commander of cavalry under Hugh O'Neill. Sir John Davies wrote that he was, in his words, "a valiant rebel, and the stoutest that ever was of his name."

Capture of the Earl of Ormond near Kilkenny

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1598–1599

The Earl of Ormond and Sir George Carew met O'Moore on a heath surrounded by bog near Kilkenny. After Ormond insulted the Jesuit Archer, the Irish surrounded the party; Ormond was unhorsed and taken prisoner, while Carew and the Earl of Thomond escaped with wounds.

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miles from Kilkenny. The earl asks the president to accompany him ; Carew consents. They meet O'Moore on a heath in the midst of a bog, surrounded with shrubs. Behind the shrubs lie a number of bonnoughts and skipping kerne. Ormond asks to see " that infamous Jesuit, Archer." We suspect that Ormond went to the parley with the design of arresting Archer. The churchman comes forward, and is called a "traitor," and accused of making rebels, under the guise of religion. The Irish are indignant, and rally round their priest. The earl's party are surrounded. ll We were environed, and stood as if we had been in a fair." Sic^George Carew and the Earl of Thomond, who was of the party, turned their horses' heads for flight, Ormond does the same, but is seized, and unhorsed. " His lordship was in a moment cfrawn from his horse. We had more hanging on than is creditably to be believed ; but our horses were strong, and by that means did break through them, tumbling down those that were before and behind ; and thanks be to God, we escaped the push of their pikes, which they freely bestowed, and the flinging of their skeins, without any hurt, saving that I, the Earl of Thomond, received with a pike, a wound in the back." The Earl of Ormond remained for sometime a prisoner in the hands of O'Moore. *
This Owny Mac Rory O'Moore was employed by O'Neill to fan the rebellion which had broken out

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 133

Death of Fitzmaurice in battle at Connello and Clanwilliam

Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1579

Fitzmaurice was mortally wounded in a battle in the baronies of Connello and Clanwilliam, but managed to cleave Theobald Burke's head in twain before dying. He ordered his own head cut off and body hidden under a tree to prevent mutilation by enemies.

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commanded that one of the ringleaders should be hung, but John of Desmond would not hear of it. In passing through the baronies of Connello and Clanwilliam, the people assembled to oppose them, headed by Theobald and Ulick, the sons of William Burke. They overtook the invaders, who had halted in a wood. Fitzmaurice, at an early period of the engagement, received a ball in the chest ; the wound was mortal, but it fired him to a last effort ; so clearing a passage through the enemy's forces, he rushed up to Theobald Burke, and with one blow of his sword, clave his head in twain.* This decided the battle in his favor. But he had not passed far from the scene of his conquest, when the langour of death came over him. He made a will in a few words, and ordered his friends to cut off his head after his death, lest his enemies should know him, and mangle his remains. O'Daly informs us that his kinsman, Maurice had ordered his head to be cut off, and his body to be concealed under an aged tree,f where, not long after, it was found by a hunter, brought to Kilmallock, hung on a gallows, and fired at by a heretic.
Queen Elizabeth, to express her sympathy with the sorrow of Sir William Burke, and her sense of his sons' services to the state, created the father a peer of the realm, under the title of Lord Baron of Castle- Connell. Camden remarks, that the old man died

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 111

Florence Mac Carthy's secret marriage in a ruined Kerry church

Kerry · county · Kerry · 1588

Florence Mac Carthy secretly married Lady Ellen, daughter of the Earl of Clancare, in an old broken church in Kerry, reportedly with a Catholic mass. The marriage alarmed English authorities because it united two powerful Irish families with strong ties to Spain and the rebel Earl of Desmond.

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" Him now I have according to Her High, pleasure committed, as also according to yr later direccion in yor Ip's lres of the 4th of the last moneth, have caused the countesse, Mac Finin, Teig Merrigagh, and such others as I could learne to have bene privy to the practise to be apprehended, as I could come by them ; and doe not doubt but very shortly to come by the rest likewise, of the wch I understand that 0' Sullivan More was the greatest forwarder and nearest of councell, though indeed all the chief of that countrey were wrought by Florence to consent thereunto, who (as I am left to understand) before the marriage, gott all their hands to firme that agreement, by a generall corrfirmacion of them; and soone after accomplished the said marriage in an old broken church thereby, not in such solemnity and good sort as behoved, and as order of Law and Her Mat8 injunction doe require."
These allusions of Sir Thomas Norris to Spain and

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 129

As the companion tells it

As the road carries you through Kerry, this is the county where in 1588 Florence Mac Carthy married Lady Ellen, daughter of the Earl of Clancare, in an old broken church. The marriage was done secretly, reportedly with a Catholic mass, and it alarmed the English authorities. It united two powerful Irish families with ties to Spain and the rebel Earl of Desmond. Sir Thomas Norris, writing afterward, said he had caused the Countess, Mac Finin, Teig Merrigagh, and others privy to the practice to be apprehended. He did not doubt shortly to come by the rest. He understood that O'Sullivan More was the greatest forwarder and nearest of counsel, though all the chief of that country were wrought by Florence to consent. Before the marriage, Florence got all their hands to firm that agreement, by a general confirmation of them. Soon after, he accomplished the marriage in an old broken church thereby, not in such solemnity and good sort as behoved, and as order of Law and Her Majesty's injunction do require.

Infant Earl carried off by monkey at Tralee Castle

Tralee · town · Kerry · 1261

When Maurice FitzGerald, the future Earl of Desmond, was only nine months old at Tralee, his nurse rushed out on news of his father's death at Callan (1261). A large monkey carried the infant to the top of the castle and later returned him safely to his cradle, earning him the surname 'Nappagh' and a monkey a permanent place in the family arms.

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Euler of Minister. He was surnamed Nappagh, (na n-Appadh,) from a remarkable circumstance which occurred to him in Tralee, when only nine months old. On the news of his father's death, (who was slain at Callan, in 1261), the nurse rushed out of the house, leaving the child alone. A large monkey seized the opportunity of carrying off the child, and of taking it up to the top of the castle. After some time, it brought it back, and deposited it safe in the cradle. From this time, the monkey has held an honorable place in the armorial bearings of the family.
Maurice, son of Thomas of the Apes, was created Earl of Desmond in 1329. He is styled by Doctor Smith " the most active nobleman in the kingdom." Being summoned by the Lord Justice Sir John D' Arcy, to suppress rebellious septs in Leinster, he came into the field at the head of a thousand men, and routed the rebels. For his thousand men he had the promise of the king's pay, but the revenue of the kingdom * being unequal to such an expenditure, he introduced the custom of imposing coin and livery, that is, horsemeat, men's-meat, and money for other expenses. It is asserted, that by such extortions his income rose from one thousand to ten thousand marks a year.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 22

As the companion tells it

Coming up now, the town of Tralee in Kerry. A strange thing happened here in 1261. Maurice FitzGerald, the future Earl of Desmond, was just nine months old. Word came that his father had been slain at Callan, and his nurse rushed out of the house, leaving the child alone. A large monkey seized the moment, carried the infant to the top of the castle, and after some time brought him back and placed him safe in the cradle. From that, Maurice was surnamed Nappagh, and the monkey took an honourable place in the family's armorial bearings. Maurice, son of Thomas of the Apes, was created Earl of Desmond in 1329. Doctor Smith called him "the most active nobleman in the kingdom." Summoned by the Lord Justice Sir John D'Arcy to suppress rebellious septs in Leinster, he came into the field at the head of a thousand men and routed the rebels. He had the promise of the king's pay for his thousand men, but the revenue of the kingdom was unequal to such an expenditure. So he introduced the custom of coin and livery, that is, horse meat, men's meat, and money for other expenses. It is asserted that by such extortions his income rose from one thousand to ten thousand marks a year.

O'Sullivan's men retake Dunboy Castle from Spaniards

near Dunboy · street · Cork · 1602

Irish forces under O'Sullivan surprised the Spanish garrison holding Dunboy Castle, declaring they would guard it for the King of Spain. The Spaniards were disarmed and most were sent to Baltimore to be shipped back to Spain, while the captain and a few gunners were retained.

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The day begins to dawn as Archer — the mind of the party — taps at Francesco's door and requests his presence in " Osulevan's chambers." He comes, and is informed that the Irish are in possession of the castle ; that they intend to guard it for the King of Spain, that a larger force is outside, " within harquebusse shott of the castle," that neither he nor his men shall receive hurt, but they must not resist, Francesco was thunderstruck, but made no resistance. Some of his men discharged a few muskets, and killed three Irishmen, but that was all. The Spaniards were then disarmed, and sent to Ealtimore, to be shipped for Spain, with the exception of the captain, a few of the better sort, and three or four gunners, who might make themselves useful, should the castle be besieged.
When the report of the surprise of Dunboy Castle was made to Don Juan, who was then in Cork, he took it for a great affront ; he feels his honor compromised ; he must march the Spaniards from Kinsale who have not yet embarked, and retake the castle, and deliver it, according to the composition, into her majesty's hands. Mountjoy and Carew, " who were desirous to see his heels towards Ireland," requested him not to trouble himself, that it was no fault of his that the castle had been surprised ; that when he was gone they would take order for reducing it. He is stayed by these words, but must write an account of the affair to the King of Spain, the Earl of Carazena, and Pedro de Zubaire. Here we take our leave of this Don Juan or Don Quixote, and turn to the siege of Dunboy.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 177

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Dunboy, in 1602, Irish forces under O'Sullivan surprised the Spanish garrison holding the castle. The day was just beginning to dawn when Archer, described as the mind of the party, tapped at Francesco's door and asked him to come to O'Sullivan's chambers. Francesco arrived and was told that the Irish were now in possession of the castle, that they intended to guard it for the King of Spain, and that a larger force waited outside, within harquebus shot of the walls. He was told neither he nor his men would be hurt, but they must not resist. Francesco was thunderstruck, but offered no resistance. Some of his men discharged a few muskets and killed three Irishmen, but that was all. The Spaniards were then disarmed and sent to Baltimore to be shipped back to Spain, with the exception of the captain, a few of the better sort, and three or four gunners who might make themselves useful should the castle be besieged. When word of the surprise reached Don Juan, who was then in Cork, he took it as a great affront and felt his honour compromised. He wanted to march the Spaniards from Kinsale who had not yet embarked, retake the castle, and deliver it, according to the composition, into her majesty's hands. Mountjoy and Carew, who were, in the source's words, desirous to see his heels towards Ireland, told him not to trouble himself, that it was no fault of his the castle had been surprised, and that when he was gone they would take order for reducing it. He was stayed by these words, but had to write an account of the affair to the King of Spain, the Earl of Carazena, and Pedro de Zubaire. The narrative then turns to the siege of Dunboy.

Mayor Coppinger Hanged Before His Own Door

Youghal · town · Cork · 1579

Mr. P. Coppinger, mayor of Youghal in 1579, fell into the hands of the Earl of Ormond, was tried by court-martial, and hanged before his own door. He had refused to admit an English garrison, promising to defend Youghal, but surrendered it to Desmond with mere semblance of opposition.

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Shortly after this, Mr. P. Coppinger, the mayor of Youghal for this year, 1579, fell into the hands of the Earl of Ormond, was tried by court-martial, and hung before his own door. He had, previous to the sacking of the town, refused to admit an English garrison, promising to defend the place to the last extremity ; but on Desmond's approach, yielded it up, with a mere semblance of opposition.
Holinshed says the Earl of Desmond carried the " goods and household stuffe to the castle of Strangecallie and Lefinnen, which were then kept by the Spaniards." The ruins of Strancally castle are on the Blackwater, between Youghal and Lismore, Doctor Eyland, in his " History of Waterford," makes this castle and cave quite a Giant Despair's residence. "We must take the following description eum grano salts : —

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 113

Desmond's body interred at Kilnamanagh chapel

near Kilnamanagh · parish · Cork · 1583

After the Earl of Desmond was killed at Glanageenty, his body lay concealed beneath an old tree until it was carried away for interment to the small chapel of Kilnamanagh, near Castle-Island.

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The head was impaled on London bridge. The people of the district still point to the spot where the earl was killed, called Bothar-an-Iarla, in the townland of Gleann-an-Ghiuntigh, now Glanageenty, about five miles to the east of Tralee ; and to an old tree, beneath which his body lay concealed, till it was carried away for interment to the small chapel of Kilnamanagh, near Castle-Island.
Thus miserably perished Garrett, the sixteenth Earl of Desmond. His fate makes a mournful page of Irish history, although " he was given to plunder and insurrection." The great house or family of Desmond fell with him. He left a son, James, called the Parliamentary Earl of Desmond, and a nephew, James Fitz- Thomas, called the Sugan Earl, but Garrett may be styled the last.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 120

As the companion tells it

As you pass through the parish of Kilnamanagh, you are near the small chapel where the body of Garrett, the sixteenth Earl of Desmond, was buried in 1583. After he was killed at Glanageenty, his body lay concealed beneath an old tree until it was carried here for interment. His head was impaled on London Bridge. The great house of Desmond fell with him. He left a son, James, called the Parliamentary Earl, and a nephew, James Fitz-Thomas, called the Sugan Earl, but Garrett may be styled the last.

Donnell O'Sullivan Beare commits Dunboy to the King of Spain

near Dunboy · street · Cork · 1601

Writing from the camp near Kinsale on 29 December 1601, Donnell O'Sullivan Beare pledges his loyalty to the Spanish King and commits his lands and the haven of Dunboy (Berehaven) to Spanish protection.

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perpetually to serve your majestie, not only in Ireland, but in any other place where it shall please your highnesse ; I commit also my wife, my children, my manners, townes, countrey, and lands, and my haven of Dunboy, called Biara-haven (next under God) to the protection, keeping, and defence or commericke of your majestie, to be and remaine in your hands, and at your disposition.
" Also at your pleasure bee it (my liege Lord) to send defence and strong keeping of the haven of Dunboy, first for yourselfe (my soveraigne) to receive your ships, and for mee also as your loving servant, so that the Queene of England's ships may not possesse the same before you, while I follow the warres in your highnesse behalfe. I pray Almighty God to give your majestie long life, health of body and soule, with increase of grace and prosperity. So I betake you to the keeping of God.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 166

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Dunboy, in December 1601, Donnell O'Sullivan Beare, writing from the camp near Kinsale, made over everything he had to the King of Spain. He pledged to serve the Spanish king perpetually, not only in Ireland but wherever his highness pleased. He committed his wife, his children, his towns, his country, and his lands to the king's protection and disposition. And he committed his haven of Dunboy, called Beara Haven, next under God, to the king's keeping and defence. He asked the king to send forces to hold the harbour, so that the Queen of England's ships could not possess it before the Spanish arrived. He wanted the haven secure for the king to receive his ships, and for himself as the king's loving servant, while he followed the wars on the king's behalf. He prayed God to give the king long life, health of body and soul, with increase of grace and prosperity, and betook him to the keeping of God.

Earl of Desmond's hospitality anecdote at Mogeely Castle

Mogeely · townland · Cork

An anecdote relates that at Mogeely Castle on the banks of the Bride, the Earl of Desmond's steward invited numerous Munster chiefs to stay for a month, exhausting the castle's provisions. The earl commanded his servants to set fire to the castle during a hunt, but the steward instead raided cattle and corn to restore supplies.

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the Bride. He had a steward as famous at expedients as he of Ravenswood. The steward, without his master's permission, gave an invitation to a number of the chiefs of Munster, to spend a month at the castle. The invitation was accepted with alacrity ; the Fitzgeralds came in crowds, nor could the earl say them nay, though the castle was not overstocked with provisions. The servants informed him one day there was nothing for dinner, that the Irish chieftains had fairly eaten themselves out. Here was a predicament ! The honor of his house and his character, for hospitality, were at stake. He invites them to a hunt, commanding the servants to set fire to the castle in his absence. He looked on his return for the flames; could see none, but met the steward, who told him to cheer up, that he had been out and taken a prey of corn and cattle, (probably from the lands of some of his guests) which would sustain both his castle and credit for months. Donald Eoe Mac Carthy, of Desmond, contended with Maguire, prince of Desmond, in the beginning of the fourteenth century, for the palm of hospitality. A bard was engaged to spend a year at each of their houses. He adjudged the prize to Maguire, declaring, that although he possessed less territory, he exceeded Mac Carthy in the number of his servants and retainers, and the quantity of food consumed in his house. The Desmond, or Mac Carthy's country, is thus bitterly described by an Irish poet, who passed through it at a much later period : —
" But of all places, Desmond in truth takes the lead In fasting. I pray God it may win its just meed. If a pilgrim gain heaven for sandal and scallop, Then Desmond, methiuks, should come in at a gallop."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala

English forces strip Kinsale district of food and break mills

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1601

Queen Elizabeth's forces had carried away all cattle and corn from the Kinsale district and broken down the mills before the Spanish arrival. The Spaniards could only obtain a few cows from poor local people willing to sell.

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" As soon as Don Juan had lodged himself, he dispatched messengers to the Earles Tyrone and O'Donnell, advising them of his arrival. The naturals [natives] of the country report the forces of the earles * to be much less than was given out to us." The queen's people and forces had carried away all the cattle and corn of the district, and broken down the mills. All the Spaniards could get was " a few cowes from the poore peple, who are glad to sell." English troopers come every day to the walls, to see what the Spaniards are about. The Spaniards, having no cavalry, must submit to the indignity. A skirmish occurs near the castle of Rincurran, which is in the possession of the Spaniards ; some were hurt, but none slain.
The new Lord Deputy Mountjoy, Sir George Carew, the Earl of Ormond, Sir Richard Wingfield (marshal of the army), and Sir Robert Gardiner (the Chief Justice) were in Kilkenny holding a council as to what they should do, if the Spaniards arrived, when Sir Charles Wilmot's letters announced the arrival. They

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 162

As the companion tells it

You are nearing Kinsale. In 1601, when the Spanish under Don Juan arrived here, Queen Elizabeth's forces had already carried away all the cattle and corn of the district and broken down the mills. The Spaniards could only get, in the words of the source, "a few cowes from the poore peple, who are glad to sell." English troopers came every day to the walls to watch what the Spaniards were doing. The Spaniards had no cavalry and had to submit to this. A skirmish took place near the castle of Rincurran, which the Spaniards held. Some were hurt, but none slain. Meanwhile, the new Lord Deputy Mountjoy, Sir George Carew, the Earl of Ormond, Sir Richard Wingfield, marshal of the army, and Sir Robert Gardiner, the Chief Justice, were in Kilkenny holding a council about what to do if the Spaniards arrived, when Sir Charles Wilmot's letters announced the arrival.

Failed ruse to seize Blarney Castle under guise of hunting

near Blarney · townland · Cork

Sir Charles Wilmot and a party of soldiers were instructed to pretend to hunt a buck near Blarney and then call at the castle asking for wine and usquebagh. The warders grew suspicious of the disguised dragoons and refused to open the gates.

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On these depositions it is privately resolved that the Lord of Muskerry be arrested, and that his strong castle of Blarney be seized. In order to avoid suspicion, the president takes a journey to Kinsale, to view Castle Park, which had been in the possession of the Spaniards, and gives instructions that Sir Charles Wilmot, Captain Eoger Harvey, a serjeant, and fourand-twenty foot, "should make a shew of going to hunt a buck " in the neighbourhood of Blarney ; and being hot and weary with the chase, call at the castle on their return, and ask for "wine and usquebagh, whereof Irish gentlemen are seldom disfurnished." The hunting party call. The dogs are baying, and the bugles sounding round the bawn, but whether it was that the dragoons did not manage their horses like huntsmen, or that they overdid the thing, the warders on the wall were suspicious, and refused to open the gates. Sir Charles Wilmot may ride round the moat, and admire the "maine rock"* on which the castle stands, and praise its exterior, as the fox did the shining feathers of the crow, and " much importune to see the romey within," but the warders shake their heads. Neither Sir Charles, nor one of his people,
* Maine rock. — " His castle of Blarney is one of the largest and strongest castles in the province of Munster, for its fower piles, joyned in one, seated upon a maine rock, so that it is free from niyning ; the wall eighteene foot thick, arul well flanked at each corner to the test advantage." — Pac. fij'6., p. 598.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 185

Florence MacCarthy arrested, compromised in Spanish landing at Kinsale

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1601

Florence MacCarthy was deeply compromised in the Spanish landing at Kinsale, though he was arrested and safely lodged in the tower before Don Juan de Aquila arrived. Letters written on his behalf to the King of Spain, offering his person and lands, fell into the hands of Sir George Carew.

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There can be no doubt that Florence MacCarthy was deeply compromised in the Spanish landing at Kinsale, although he was arrested and safely lodged in the tower before the arrival of Don Juan de Aquila.
They employed Donough Mac Cormac to write the following letter to Philip, King of Spain, not that he required an amanuensis,* but he remembered, written words remain. Donough Mac Cormac was under the same impression, for he got Thomas Shelton to copy what he indited for another. But notwithstanding all this caution, this, and other letters fell into the hands of Sir George Carew.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 158

As the companion tells it

You're coming into Kinsale, the town where Florence MacCarthy was compromised in the Spanish landing of 1601. He had already been arrested and lodged in the tower before Don Juan de Aquila arrived. Letters were written on his behalf to Philip, King of Spain, offering his person and lands, but despite careful precautions they fell into the hands of Sir George Carew.

Inchiquin — principal residence of the Old Countess

Inchiquin · townland · Cork · 1614

According to an inscription on her portrait, Catherine, Countess of Desmond, maintained her principal residence at Inchiquin in Munster and intended to return there after seeking relief at the court of King James in 1614, the house of Desmond having been ruined by attainder.

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and in ye 140th yeare of her age. Thither she came from Bristol, to seek relief, ye house of Desmond having been ruined by attainder. She was married in ye reigne of King Edward IV., and in ye course of her long pilgrimage, renewed her teeth liuice. Her principal residence is at Inchiquin, in Munster, whither she undauntedlie proposeth (her purpose accomplished) incontinentlie to return. Laus Deo."
The death of this famous old lady is ascribed to an accident. " She might have lived much longer, had she not mett with a kind of violent death, for shee must needs climb a nutt-tree, to gather nutts ; soe falling down, she hurt her thigh, which brought on fever, and that brought death.''

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 60

Kinsale depopulated by pestilence and blockaded by pirates

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1547

The Sovereign and council of Kinsale reported that nearly all their men had died of pestilence, leaving a wide and empty town with few inhabitants and bad neighbours. Their harbour was blocked by pirates, including Richard Colle who had married Barry Oge's aunt and occupied his castle, refusing anyone access to the town.

Read the passage

WE have a new king and a new Lord Deputy. St. Leger has been superseded by Sir Edward Bellingham. The principal magistrates of the principal towns, send letters and addresses. The mayor, bailiffs, and council of Cork write to say, they have sent John Coppinger to the king to procure the confirmation of their grants and liberties; the mayor, bailiffs, and council of Youghal, that they have captured a pirate, named Smith, who had plundered their fishing boats, and wish to know what they are to do with him ; the Sovereign and council of Kinsale, that all their men have died of pestilence — there was a great plague in the city of Cork this year — that they have a wide and empty town, few men, and naughty neighbours, that their haven is stopped by " eagle's pirates," and that one Richard Colle, or Colley, a pirate with a pinnace, has married Barry Oge's aunt, and lives in his castle, and will not suffer any one to come to the town. They request the Deputy to send letters to Mac Carthy Reagh, Barry Roe,* Barry Oge, and Lord de Courcy commanding them to take the king's coin.
* The Lor* Barry.— The Editor of the Calendar of Irish State Papers for 1509-1573 erroneously styles this Irish nobleman Lord Barrymore. David Lord Barry, Viscount of Buttevant, was created Earl of Barrymore, February 28, 1627. The title Baron Barry was conferred in 1420, and Viscount Buttevant in 1555.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 80

As the companion tells it

You are near Kinsale now. In 1547 the town was brought low. The Sovereign and council of Kinsale wrote to the new Lord Deputy, Sir Edward Bellingham, who had just superseded St. Leger. They told him all their men had died of pestilence. There was a great plague in the city of Cork that year too. They said they had a wide and empty town, few men, and naughty neighbours. Their haven was stopped by pirates they called eagle's pirates. One Richard Colle, or Colley, a pirate with a pinnace, had married Barry Oge's aunt and lived in his castle. He would not suffer any one to come to the town. They asked the Deputy to send letters to Mac Carthy Reagh, Barry Roe, Barry Oge, and Lord de Courcy, commanding them to take the king's coin. Other towns wrote too. Cork sent John Coppinger to the king to confirm their grants and liberties. Youghal had captured a pirate named Smith who plundered their fishing boats, and asked what to do with him.

Lambert Simnel crowned in Christ Church, Dublin

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1487

Lambert Simnel, purported son of the Duke of Clarence, was received in Dublin by the Earl of Kildare and other nobles and crowned in Christ Church. He was carried thence in triumph to Dublin Castle on the shoulders of a gigantic Irishman named Darcy, with a diadem taken from a statue of the Virgin in a church near Damesgate.

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The son of Clarence was likely to be received with open arms in Ireland. It was Clarence that avenged the murder of his godfather, Thomas of Drogheda, Earl of Desmond, and procured Desmond's friend, Garrett, Earl of Kildare, to be appointed Chief Justice, in place of Tiptoft, Earl of Worcester, by whom D esmond was adjudged to death. We are not therefore surprised to find Simnel, (the supposed son of Clarence), received in Dublin, by the Earl of Kildare, who was then Lord Deputy ; by the Chancellor, the Treasurer, Lord Lovel, Lord Lincoln, and many other nobles and chief men, lay and clerical. He was crowned in Christ Church, and carried thence in triumph to the castle of Dublin, on the shoulders of a gigantic Irishman, named Darcy. It is said that the diadem used on the occasion, was taken from the statue of the Virgin, kept in a church near Damesgate.
As Henry VII. had the real son of the Duke of

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 41

As the companion tells it

Dublin is a city where a boy was once crowned king. The son of Clarence was likely to be received with open arms in Ireland. Clarence had avenged the murder of his godfather, Thomas of Drogheda, Earl of Desmond, and procured Desmond's friend, Garrett, Earl of Kildare, to be appointed Chief Justice in place of Tiptoft, Earl of Worcester, who had adjudged Desmond to death. So in 1486 or 1487, Lambert Simnel, the supposed son of Clarence, was received by the Earl of Kildare, then Lord Deputy, by the Chancellor, the Treasurer, Lord Lovel, Lord Lincoln, and many other nobles and chief men, lay and clerical. He was crowned in Christ Church, and carried thence in triumph to Dublin Castle, on the shoulders of a gigantic Irishman named Darcy. It is said that the diadem used on the occasion was taken from the statue of the Virgin, kept in a church near Damesgate.

Massacre at Smerwick Fort

Smerwick · townland · Kerry · 1580

After the Spanish and Italian garrison at Smerwick fort surrendered unconditionally to Lord Deputy Grey, his forces put the captives to execution, slaying six hundred. The act was condemned by contemporary writers as butchery in cold blood, and Lord Grey's 'Fides Greia' became a proverb of treachery in Munster.

Read the passage

the Lord Deputy's secretary, and that is the Deputy himself. He told the Spanish commander, San Joseph, that " no condition or composition were they to expect, other than they shuld simplie render me the forte, and yield themselves to my will for lyf or deth." He then goes on to say, — "Morning came; I presented my forces in bataille before the forte ; the coronel, with ten or twelve of his chief gentlemen, came trayling their ensigns, rolled up, and presented them to me with their lives, and the forte. I sent straighte certeyne gentlemen to see their weapons and armoires laid down, and to guard the munition and victual then left from spoyle. Then put I in certeyne bandes, who sireighte fell to execution. There were six hundred slayn."
Cox, who had no love for either Spaniard or Italian, says, that the garrison " yielded at mercy, which was too sparingly extended towards them." Leland says, " The garrison was butchered in cold blood ;" nor is it without pain that he finds "a service so horrible and detestable committed to Sir Walter Kaleigh." We are informed by the same writer that the queen expressed the utmost concern and displeasure at this baibarous execution. The faith ef Lord Grey, or " Fides Greia" was long after this for a proverb and a bye-word in Munster. This nobleman lived long enough to lose all favor at court, and what is more remarkable, was found to be deeply implicated in the " Treason of the Bye," or the " Priests' Treason." He expected to be made Marshal of the Horse under the new regime. It was well named, with such an agent, the " Surprising Treason."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 115

Rebels threaten to take Cork and Kinsale

Cork · city · Cork · 1569

The mayor and corporation of Cork informed Sydney that the rebels bragged they would take Cork and Kinsale, claiming help was coming from Spain and that the Butlers were part of the rebel confederacy. All corporate towns were in terror, requesting soldiers, firearms, and gunpowder.

Read the passage

mayor and corporation of Cork inform Sydney, that the rebels brag they will take Cork and Kinsale, that help cometh from Spain, and that the Butlers, who boast of their loyalty, are of the rebel confederacy. All the corporate towns are in terror, writing hard for soldiers, fire-arms, and barrels of gunpowder ; and not without cause, for that great rebel leader, of whom we shall hear more by-and-bye, writes to the mayor and corporation of Cork, " to aboolissh oute of that cittie that old heresy newely raised and invented, and namely, Barnaby Daaly, and all therein that be Hugnettes, boothe men and woomen, and Greynvile's wife and his children." Grenville was united with St. Leger in the government of the city and province, and was, we conclude, absent at this time. St. Leger, who is too sick to leave his house at Southwark, London, sends Cecil letters, dated 1569, from his wife from Carrigaline, and adds, — " It is better the queen should spend £40,000, than that Cork should be lost." He proposed to the privy council to raise £10,000 on his lands in England, in order to equip a force of 1,500 men, at his own charge, " for evicting lands from rebels and traitors, to the value of £1,000 a-year."
This rising was not confined to Cork and Kerry. The mayor and corporation of Waterford write, that good subjects in the, country were forced by the rebels to join. They who refused were not only spoiled of kine and garrans, but driven naked to the city gates, u not sparing, a most shameful thing to be reported, to use the honest huswives of the countrey in like manner." They were tormented with more cruel pains than " eyther Phalaris, or any of the old tyrants, cowld

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 96

As the companion tells it

Coming up now through Cork. In 1569 the mayor and corporation of this city wrote to Sydney with alarming news. The rebels were bragging they would take Cork and Kinsale. They claimed help was coming from Spain, and that the Butlers, who boasted of their loyalty, were part of the rebel confederacy. All the corporate towns were in terror, writing hard for soldiers, firearms, and barrels of gunpowder. Their fear was not without cause. A great rebel leader wrote to the mayor and corporation of Cork demanding they abolish out of the city that old heresy newly raised and invented, naming Barnaby Daaly and all therein that were Huguenots, both men and women, and Grenville's wife and his children. Grenville was united with St. Leger in the government of the city and province, and was absent at this time. St. Leger, too sick to leave his house at Southwark in London, sent Cecil letters dated 1569 from his wife in Carrigaline. He wrote that it was better the queen should spend 40,000 pounds than that Cork should be lost. He proposed to the privy council to raise 10,000 pounds on his lands in England to equip a force of 1,500 men at his own charge, for evicting lands from rebels and traitors to the value of 1,000 pounds a year. This rising was not confined to Cork and Kerry. The mayor and corporation of Waterford wrote that good subjects in the country were forced by the rebels to join. Those who refused were spoiled of their cattle and horses and driven naked to the city gates, not sparing the honest wives of the country in like manner. They were tormented with more cruel pains than either Phalaris or any of the old tyrants could devise.

Shandon Castle: presidential lodging and intercepted letters

Shannon · town · Clare · 1602

The Lord President lodged at Shandon Castle during the Spanish embarkation negotiations in February 1602. The intercepted Spanish despatches, stolen by disguised soldiers within five miles of Cork, were delivered there while Don Juan was dining at the castle.

Read the passage

bandits, and rob the messenger of letters, money, and even horses, and leave him and his guide bound in some wood. Captain Nuce meets the Spaniard within five miles of Cork, and does his business to perfection. He brought the packet to the president at Shandon Castle, the day Don Juan is dining there. The Spanish messenger, who has been unbound by some friendly hand, gains the city that evening, and tells Don Juan that he has been robbed of his despatches by soldiers in the guise of bandits. The Spanish general goes to the deputy, grievously complaining that his messenger has been robbed by soldiers. The deputy is very sorry; adebaucht souldiers " is a common thing in every army, but he suspects it was done by country thieves, that they might shew the letters to their friends in rebellion. Don Juan is by no means satisfied with this reply, and requests the deputy to inquire of Sir George, of whom he has " a vehement suspicion." The Lord Deputy answers, — "Upon his fayth, he was sure the president had them not ; which hee might well doe, for they were in his owne possession." In order to satisfy the Don, Mountjoy published a proclamation, and offered a reward to any one who could discover the thieves, promising to spare the lives of those who committed the theft, on their coming forward, and making a full confession.
The letters were of so grave and important a character, and so explicit as it regarded Philip's determination to conquer Ireland, that we doubt, if Don Juan would have ventured to embark his forces in the face of them. The first is from the Duke of Lerma : —

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 171

Smerwick massacre of surrendered garrison

Dunanore · enclosure · Kerry · 1580

After besieging the fort at Dún an Óir, Lord Grey accepted the surrender of the defenders led by Sebastian de San Josepho. Despite promises of honourable terms, all seven hundred soldiers were subsequently butchered in cold blood.

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the advice of Ormond. He approaches the fort, and sends chosen parties to reconnoitre each day. The place seems impregnable. It cannot be stormed. They play on it for " four days," says Camden, for " forty days," says O'Daly. Hard shot has no effect on these Italians or Spaniards. They must try soft words. Communications are opened between the governor of the fort and the Lord Deputy. Sebastian, or Stephen de San Josepho, whom Camden calls "homo imbellis" — it is difficult to imagine what brought a homo imbellis there — accompanied by Hercules Pisano and the Duke of Biscay, waited on Lord Grey, and were graciously received, and honorable terms promised on surrender. San Josepho surrendered, was made, with his friends, prisoners of war, and every soldier in the fort, to the number of seven hundred, butchered in cold blood.
Edmund Spenser, Lord Grey's private secretary, emphatically denies that their lives were promised. Grey was Spenser's beau ideal of a warrior; he figures in the " Fairie Queen " as his " Talus with the Iron Flail." The poet's friend, Sir Walter Raleigh, was also mixed up with this bloody affair. But let us hear Spenser, for he was in Grey's camp, and present at the conference between the deputy and the officers from the fort. The account occurs in the imaginary dialogue between Ireneus and Eudoxus : —

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 114

Spanish forces occupy Kinsale, 1601

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1601

A Spanish force of about 3,000 men under Don Juan de Aquila landed at Kinsale in 1601. The weak English garrison retreated to Cork, and the town's sovereign billeted the Spaniards among the inhabitants, who received them warmly.

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There was no army in Kinsale able to oppose their landing;* the force consisted of fifty foot and forty horse, which departed for Cork, <4the better sort of persons going with them, with all their goods.7' The Spaniards marched with five-and-twenty colors towards the town. The gates were thrown open, and the sovereign, with his white rod, went about billeting them upon the inhabitants. Stafford says, the people were more ready to receive them "than if they had beene the queene's forces." To encourage them in such good conduct, to banish fear, and " win their l®ve by gentle and mild usage," Don Juan de Aquila, the Spanish general, who appears to have been a man of singular politeness, made the following proclamation : —
*' A Proclamation made m Kintale by DON JUAN DE AQUILA, £«

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 162

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Kinsale, where in 1601 a Spanish force of about 3,000 men under Don Juan de Aquila landed. There was no army here able to oppose them. The English garrison, just 50 foot and 40 horse, departed for Cork, the better sort of persons going with them, with all their goods. The Spaniards marched with 25 colours towards the town. The gates were thrown open, and the sovereign, with his white rod, went about billeting them upon the inhabitants. The people were more ready to receive them, in Stafford's words, "than if they had beene the queene's forces." Don Juan de Aquila, a man of singular politeness, made a proclamation to banish fear and win their love by gentle and mild usage.

Spenser driven from Kilcolman Castle

Kilcolman · townland · Cork · 1598

Two years after writing his 'View of the State of Ireland', the poet Edmund Spenser was burned out of Kilcolman Castle. One of his children perished in the flames during the attack.

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Two years after writing this book, the poet was burned out of Kilcolman Castle, one of his children perishing in the flames. A year after this, in 1599, he died of starvation, in London, for u lake of bred," as Ben Johnson says.
It is evident that Spenser made enemies in England by his works. In his letter to Raleigh from Kilcolman, he speaks of the " malice of evil mouths, which are always wide open to carpe at and misconstrue his simple meaning." He refers to the " Faerie Queene,'' which he had lately published in London. He seems to have apprehended something of this kind, for in dedicating the poem to Sir Walter Ealeigh, he says,

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 136

Surprise attack on Desmond's camp at Aghadoe

Aghadoe · parish · Kerry · 1581

Before dawn on 4 January 1581, Captain Zouch's cavalry surprised the outlawed Earl of Desmond's encampment near Aghadoe, by the Lakes of Killarney. The earl and countess barely escaped in their shirts, hiding up to their chins in a neighboring river for hours.

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The condition of the old outlawed Earl of Desmond was almost desperate. His pursuers, headed by this Captain Zouch, were every day narrowing the circla around him. But he generally managed to break through, and either to distance his pursuers or keep them at bay. He was surrounded by a band of desperate men, called the " Old Children of the Wood," who betook themselves to the wilds near the Lakes of Killarney. It was before dawn on Sunday morning, the 4th of January, 1581. The encampment was near Aghadoe. The remains of a round tower now mark the spot. The earl and countess, who had sat by the watch fires all night, were buried in deep sleep when they were startled by the cry of alarm, and the hoofs of Captain Zouch' s cavalry. They barely escaped — he in his shirt — to the bank of the neighboring river, where they remained for two or three hours "up to their chins in water." Desmond took the earliest opportunity of revenging this surprise.
A.D. 1581. — " A hosting was made by the Earl of Desmond, at the end of the month of September, into the plains lying far and wide around Cashel, in Munster, and into Cashel itself. His forces seized upon great quantities of all sorts of property, such as copper, iron, clothing, apparel, and great and small cattle." They were pursued by a large fores, on

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 118

Throwing the Dart at Cork harbour mouth

near Cork Harbour · estuary · Cork

Every three years the Mayor of Cork performs the ancient civic ceremony of 'Throwing the Dart' at the mouth of Cork harbour, in accordance with a clause in the city charter demonstrating jurisdiction over the port. The ceremony involves the Mayor, in official robes and collar of S.S., casting an iron-barded arrow into the water.

Read the passage

formed every three years, and is in accordance with a clause in the city charter, which provides, that for the purpose of showing their jurisdiction over the port and harbour, the Mayor, accompanied by the officers of the Corporation of Cork, and such members of that body as may choose, shall go out to the mouth of the harbour, and, at a point as near to a straight line drawn from Poor Head to Cork Head, as can be determined on with the eye, shall throw a dart into the water. Having reached the necessary point at the Harbour's mouth, the Mayor put on his official robes, and the collar of S.S., took the arrow, which was about a yard and a-half in length, with a heavy iron barded head, and proceeding to the bow of the vessel, accompanied by the entire of the party, threw it into the water amid a loud cheer."
can reckon, in the present day, at least twelve towns and villages, great and small, (not to speak of pills,* creeks, burghs, and strands,) to which the sea ebbs and flows, and over which the charter of Edward IV. gave our magistrates jurisdiction: Whitegate, Aghada, Cove, Glanmirc, Cork, Douglas, Blackrock, Passage, Monkstown, Rinnaskiddy, Carrigaline, and Crosshaven. There is very little doubt, that these small towns, as well as the larger city, were included in the cantied, or territory, possessed by the Danes.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala

Cormac Mac Carthy of Muskerry joins English against Spaniards

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1601

Despite Don Juan's proclamation urging Irish Catholics to reject Queen Elizabeth's authority, Cormac Mac Carthy, Lord of Muskerry, and his people united with the English deputy against the Spaniards and were marched to the trenches at Kinsale to demonstrate their allegiance.

Read the passage

Don Juan, " Commander in God's War," makes a proclamation to all the Irish Catholics in Kinsale, Cork, and other villages and cities, in which he explains that they owe no subjection to Queen Elizabeth, who has been deprived of her kingdom, and her subjects absolved from their fidelity, by the Pope. But this has not the desired effect, for Cormac Mac Carthy, Lord of Muskerry, and his people, unite with the deputy against the strangers. The Irish are marched up to the very trenches, that the Spaniards may see the side they have taken. They even come to blows with the foreigners, and are found to strike hard and home. The Spaniards make a foray on the " island, as it seemed," — the tongue of land in the mouth of the harbour — and carry off three hundred cows and a number of sheep, which they bring to Castle Park. Captain Taaffe* pursues the party, and retakes a portion of the prey beneath the walls of Castle Park.
The castle of Eincurran, which lies outside the town, is in the hands of the Spaniards. It is besieged by the

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 163

As the companion tells it

Up on the road near Kinsale in Cork. In 1601, Don Juan, Commander in God's War, made a proclamation to all Irish Catholics in Kinsale, Cork, and other villages and cities. He told them they owed no subjection to Queen Elizabeth, who had been deprived of her kingdom, and her subjects absolved from their fidelity, by the Pope. But this had not the desired effect. Cormac Mac Carthy, Lord of Muskerry, and his people united with the deputy against the strangers. The Irish were marched up to the very trenches, that the Spaniards might see the side they had taken. They even came to blows with the foreigners, and were found to strike hard and home. The Spaniards made a foray on the island, as it seemed, the tongue of land in the mouth of the harbour, and carried off three hundred cows and a number of sheep, which they brought to Castle Park. Captain Taaffe pursued the party, and retook a portion of the prey beneath the walls of Castle Park. The castle of Eincurran, which lay outside the town, was in the hands of the Spaniards. It was besieged by the

Davells and Carter murdered at Tralee

Tralee · town · Kerry · 1579

Henry Davells, constable of Dungarvan, and Arthur Carter, provost-marshal of Munster, were followed by John and James, the Earl of Desmond's brothers, to Tralee, and murdered in a house or inn near the earl's residence. They had learned too much of the earl's disloyalty.

Read the passage

Davells and Carter, who were imprudently inquisitive, and had learned more of the earl's disloyalty than it was desirable they should carry back to Cork, were followed by John and James, the earl's brothers, to Tralee, and murdered in a house or inn near the earl's residence. Another writer says, they were " beheaded while asleep in their beds," in the house or castle of the earl. Doctor Smith calls Henry Danvers, or Davells, " an English gentleman, who was gossip to Sir John of Desmond," and " high sheriff of the county of Cork." He also mentions a Justice Mead as one of the murdered party. Their servants or attendants were also murdered. The professed or pretended provocation was their going to Tralee, to hold a gaol delivery in the Desmond palatinate. It is more than probable that they were looked upon as little better than spies, and dealt with accordingly. O'Sullivan styles this murder '« facinus dignum." Camden says that Saunders called it " Suave Deo sacrificium." But every right-minded man will say with the dying patriarch, " Cursed be their anger, for it was fierce, and their wrath, for it was cruel"
These men being despatched, Fitzmaurice prepared to march into the county Limerick. From thence he intended to visit Connaught, taking Holy- Cross, in Tipperary, in his way, in order to accomplish a vow he had taken in Spain. His men began to plunder the country, and offer violence to females; Fitzmaurice

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 110

As the companion tells it

Coming through Tralee now, in Kerry. In 1579, Henry Davells and Arthur Carter were murdered here. Davells was constable of Dungarvan, and Carter was provost-marshal of Munster. They had been imprudently inquisitive, and had learned more of the Earl of Desmond's disloyalty than it was desirable they should carry back to Cork. John and James, the earl's brothers, followed them to Tralee and murdered them in a house or inn near the earl's residence. Another writer says they were beheaded while asleep in their beds, in the house or castle of the earl. Doctor Smith calls Henry Danvers, or Davells, an English gentleman, who was gossip to Sir John of Desmond, and high sheriff of the county of Cork. He also mentions a Justice Mead as one of the murdered party. Their servants or attendants were also murdered. The professed provocation was their going to Tralee to hold a gaol delivery in the Desmond palatinate. It is more than probable that they were looked upon as little better than spies, and dealt with accordingly.

Execution of Thomas, Earl of Desmond at Drogheda

Drogheda · town · Louth · 1468

Thomas, Earl of Desmond, was put to execution at Drogheda on a forged order sealed by Queen Elizabeth Woodville, after he had advised King Edward IV to divorce her. The Earl of Ormond reported that the execution provoked deep rebellion among Desmond's followers in Ireland.

Read the passage

"Much destruction," we are told, in the same annals, " was caused by Garrett, the son of the Earl of Desmond, in Munster and Leinster, in revenge of the death of Thomas the Earl." The Earl of Ormond thus describes the effect of the murder of this earl — for we can call it nothing else — upon his followers: — "They have such a cankered malicious rebellion rooted in them, evye sithens the putting to execution of Thomas, Earle of Desmond, at Drogheda, that they ben as far seperated from the knowledge of any duty of allegiance that a subject oght to owe his prince, as a Turk is to believe Christianity. Thei blaspheme the king, and have their ears and eies open every day, gaping to have assistance in this open rebellion out of Spain."
The following anecdote of this earl is worthy of record. It ocurred at Mogeely Castle, on the banks of

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 38

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Drogheda, this is where Thomas, Earl of Desmond, was beheaded in 1468, on the orders of Tiptoft, Earl of Worcester. Queen Elizabeth Woodville had secretly affixed the royal signet to the death warrant. The Earl of Ormond described what the execution did to Desmond's followers in Munster. He said they had such a cankered malicious rebellion rooted in them since the putting to death of Thomas, Earl of Desmond, at Drogheda, that they were as far separated from any duty of allegiance as a Turk is to believe Christianity. They blasphemed the king and had their eyes and ears open every day, gaping for assistance out of Spain. Garrett, the son of the Earl of Desmond, caused much destruction in Munster and Leinster in revenge for his father's death.

O'Neill plunders Barrymore

Barrymore · barony · Cork · 1600

After being welcomed by the Sugan Earl at Cashel, O'Neill's forces passed through Barrymore, whose lord David Barry was loyal to the crown. O'Neill plundered and burned the territory from end to end so thoroughly that none expected it could be inhabited for a long time afterwards.

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O'Neill, who only preyed upon his enemies, or as he would say, his country's enemies, " traversed, plundered, burned, from one extremity to the other, both plain and wood, both level and rugged, so that no one hoped or expected that it could be inhabited for a long time afterwards.'' It was even a longer time before Barry forgave O'Neill or the Earl the injuries they did him.
Leaving Barry more, write the Four Masters, " they crossed the Lee, and pitched their camps between the rivers Lee and Bandon, * on the confines of Muskerry and Carbery." "To this camp, came all the Mac Caxthys, both southern and northern. Thither repaired two who were at strife with each other" — Florence Mac Carthy, who had married lady Ellen, the daughter of the late Earl of Clancare, and Donnell his " baseborn " son. — The strife was to know which should be the Mac Carthy More. O'Neill and the assembled chieftains decided in favor of Florence, who was then and there installed. " Thither repaired the sons of the chiefs of Allow,"— the Mac Carthys of Dhuallow— thither repaired the O'Donohoes, O'Donovans, and O'Mahonys, and the greater number of the English and Irish of the two provinces of Munster," with the exception of David Barry, Cormac Mac Carthy, of Muskerry, and 0' Sullivan Beare. Those who did not attend, sent presents and tokens of adhesion or submission.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 145

Strancally Castle and Its Subterranean Dungeon

Strancally · townland · Waterford

The ruins of Strancally Castle stand on a high rock on the Blackwater between Youghal and Lismore. A subterranean cave cut through solid rock connected to the river, where the lords of Desmond allegedly imprisoned invited guests, let them perish, and cast their corpses into the water to seize their fortunes.

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" The castle of Strancally is situated on a high rock on the bank of the Blackwater, which is here of considerable breadth. The castle enjoyed a bold and commanding situation, was fortified, and in every respect a place of strength. From the foundation on which it stood, an extensive subterranean cave, with a passage communicating with the river, was cut through the solid rock, and thus provided, the worthy lords of Desmond were no contemptible imitators of the ancient giants. It was the custom of these gentle lords to invite their wealthy and distinguished neighbours to partake of the festivities of Strancally, and having thus gotten them into their power, the victims were carried through the rocky passage into the dungeon, where they were suffered to perish, and from
SPANIARDS Iff STEANCALLT CASTLE. 249

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 113

Waterford subjects driven naked to city gates by rebels

Waterford · city · Waterford · 1569

The mayor and corporation of Waterford reported that good subjects forced by rebels to join their ranks were, if they refused, spoiled of cattle and livestock and driven naked to the city gates. The rebels were said to have tortured country people with extreme cruelty.

Read the passage

This rising was not confined to Cork and Kerry. The mayor and corporation of Waterford write, that good subjects in the, country were forced by the rebels to join. They who refused were not only spoiled of kine and garrans, but driven naked to the city gates, u not sparing, a most shameful thing to be reported, to use the honest huswives of the countrey in like manner." They were tormented with more cruel pains than " eyther Phalaris, or any of the old tyrants, cowld
207

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 96

Beheading of prisoners at Waterford market

Waterford · city · Waterford · 1497

During a successful sortie against Warbeck's besieging forces in 1497, Waterford citizens captured numerous prisoners. They brought them to the market place, beheaded them, and mounted their heads on stakes.

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ponds of Kilbarry were kept full, the besieged having raised a large mound of earth to stop the course of the river, which flows from Kilbarry into the Suir. The necessary preparations being completed, the siege was vigorously commenced and carried on, for eleven days, with great zeal and activity. In the many skirmishes and sorties which took place, the citizens were generally victorious, and routed or captured their opponents. In the field, the citizens covered themselves with glory ; but it is to be regretted that after the fight their valiant hearts had no touch of pity. On one occasion, 'after a successful sortie, in which they committed great slaughter, they returned to the city with a numerous band of prisoners ; they carried them to the market place, chopped off their heads, and fastened them on stakes, as trophies of their victory. Their valour and the dread of their cruelty could no longer be resisted, the besieged became the assailants; the enemy were repulsed in every direction, and what served to ensure the victory of the citizens, the cannon planted on Reginald's Tower, after many days' hard firing, beat in the side of one of the ships, when the entire crew perished.
"The enemy, disheartened by all these untoward occurrences, and fearing to await the vengeance of the enraged citizens, raised the siege, and on the night of the 3rd of August, retreated to Ballycasheen, from thence they proceeded to Passage, where Perkin Warbeck embarked, and fled to Cork. The citizens pursued him, with four ships, and, after an eager chase, followed him to Cornwall, where he landed. W hen this intelligence reached the king, who was then

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 43

Captain Love reports Spanish fleet sighting from Cork harbour

near Cork Harbour · estuary · Cork · 1601

A Captain Love arrived in Cork harbour on 13 September 1601 and sent the Lord President a letter stating he had seen forty-five sail north of Cape Finisterre bearing north, leading him to conjecture that Ireland was their destination. Daily expectation of the Spanish fleet gripped the populace.

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A Captain Love arrived in Cork harbour, and sent the president a letter, dated the 13th of September, stating that he had seen five-and-forty sail at sea, on the north of Cape Finesterre, bearing north, he therefore conjectured that Ireland was their destination. Every one was in daily expectation of the Spanish fleet, some fearing and more desiring it. When a strange sail appeared above the horizon, — " It is a Spanish ship ! " If accompanied by a second, — " It is the
But the real Spanish fleet came at last, on the 20th of September, "towards night." The sovereign of Kinsale sent a messenger to inform Sir Charles Wilmot, who was in Cork, that a fleet of five-and-forty ships were observed from the Old Head of Kinsale; that they had passed the mouth of the river, and were bearing up for Cork harbour. The information was correct ; the Spaniards were preparing to enter the Cove, when

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 161

Castle of Donneshed at Baltimore surrendered to Spanish

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1601

Sir Finnin O'Drishall, described as never tainted with disloyalty in his whole life, rendered his castle of Donneshed at Baltimore to the Spanish forces. Together with the castle of Donnelong on Inisherkan island, these two castles controlled all entrances into Baltimore harbour.

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" Untill this time none of the provincials of Mounster, that had beene either protected or pardoned, relapsed ; but now upon the comming of these seconds to Castlehaven, Sir Finnin O'Drischall and all the O'Drischalls, Sir Owen MacCartie's sonnes, and almost all the Carties in Carbrie, Donnell O'Sulevan Beare, O'Sulevans More's eldest son, Donnell Mac Cartie, the Earle of Clan-Care's base sonne, with all the Carties of Desmond, John O'Conner Kerry, the Knight of Kerry, all the protected and pardoned men in Kerry and Desmond, and all else from Kinsale and Limericke westwards, joyned with O 'Donnell and the Spaniards ; whereat Kttle wonder is to bee made, considering what power religion and gold hath in the hearts of men, both which the Spaniards brought with them into Ireland. Donach O'Drischall delivered unto them his castle at Castlehaven, which commanded the harbour; Sir Finnin O'Drischall (who never in the course of his whole life had beene tainted with the least spot of disloyaltie) rendred unto them his castle of Donneshed at Baltimore, and his castle of Donnelong, in the island of Inisherkan, betwene which castles all entrances into that haven was debarred; and Donnell O'Sulevan surrendered unto them his strong castle of Dunboy, which absolutely commands Bearehaven ; these three harbours being without all exception che best in the west of Mounster."
364: HISTORY OF COEK.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 165

As the companion tells it

As you come near Baltimore, this is the town in Cork where, in 1601, Sir Finnin O'Drishall gave up his castle of Donneshed to the Spanish forces. The book calls him a man who, in the course of his whole life, had never been tainted with the least spot of disloyalty. The Spaniards had come into Ireland, and their arrival set off a great wave of defections. Donnell O'Drishall delivered his castle at Castlehaven, which commanded that harbour. Sir Finnin O'Drishall rendered his castle of Donneshed at Baltimore, and his castle of Donnelong, in the island of Inisherkan. Between those two castles, all entrances into Baltimore haven were debarred. Donnell O'Sulevan surrendered his strong castle of Dunboy, which absolutely commands Bearehaven. These three harbours were, without all exception, the best in the west of Munster. The book says little wonder is to be made at the wave of defections, considering what power religion and gold hath in the hearts of men, both of which the Spaniards brought with them into Ireland. Sir Owen MacCartie's sons, the Knight of Kerry, John O'Conner Kerry, and almost all the Carties in Carbrie joined with O'Donnell and the Spaniards. So did Donnell Mac Cartie, the Earl of Clan-Care's base son, and all the protected and pardoned men in Kerry and Desmond.

Don Juan describes Kinsale town and orders fort built on harbour island

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1601

Don Juan de Aquila described Kinsale as a small town of about 200 houses on a river, surrounded by hills and without defences. He ordered a fort built on an almost-island in the middle of the harbour, known as the Old Fort, which remained standing in 1861.

Read the passage

Don Juan describes the town as a "place contayning not above two hundred houses, on the side of a river, invironed with hills, and without any kind of defence. There is in the middle of the haven a certain, almost an island, on the which it seemeth good to Don Juan to have a fort made." The " Old Fort," as it is styled, remains to the present day.
" As soon as Don Juan had lodged himself, he dispatched messengers to the Earles Tyrone and O'Donnell, advising them of his arrival. The naturals [natives] of the country report the forces of the earles * to be much less than was given out to us." The queen's people and forces had carried away all the cattle and corn of the district, and broken down the mills. All the Spaniards could get was " a few cowes from the poore peple, who are glad to sell." English troopers come every day to the walls, to see what the Spaniards are about. The Spaniards, having no cavalry, must submit to the indignity. A skirmish occurs near the castle of Rincurran, which is in the possession of the Spaniards ; some were hurt, but none slain.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 162

As the companion tells it

You're coming into Kinsale now. In 1601 Don Juan de Aquila came here and described the town as a place contayning not above two hundred houses, on the side of a river, environed with hills, and without any kind of defence. He saw an almost-island in the middle of the haven and ordered a fort built on it. They called it the Old Fort, and it was still standing in 1861. Once he had lodged himself, he sent messengers to the Earles Tyrone and O'Donnell to tell them he had arrived. The natives said the earles' forces were much smaller than had been given out. The queen's people had already carried off all the cattle and corn of the district and broken down the mills. All the Spaniards could get was a few cowes from the poore peple, who are glad to sell. English troopers came every day to the walls to watch what the Spaniards were doing. The Spaniards had no cavalry and had to submit to the indignity. A skirmish broke out near the castle of Rincurran, which the Spaniards held. Some were hurt, but none slain.

Essex's retreat through Dungarvan, 1599

Dungarvan · town · Waterford · 1599

During Essex's retreat from his failed expedition against the Geraldines in 1599, the Earl of Thomond parted from Essex at Dungarvan and travelled along the coast to Youghal, then Cork, and on to Limerick. Essex himself proceeded from Dungarvan to Waterford and into Leinster, harassed by Irish forces along every road.

Read the passage

forces) to Conachail,* Magh-Ile,,f and Lismore-Mochuda. During all this time the Geraldines continued to follow, pursue, and press upon them, to shoot at, wound, and slaughter them. When the earl had arrived in the Desies, the Geraldines returned in exultation and hi«h spirits to their territories and houses. On the arrival of the same earl in Dungarvan, the Earl of Thomond parted from him there (and proceeded) along the seaside to Youghall, and from thence to Cork, and afterwards to Limerick. The Earl of Essex proceeded from Dungarvan to Waterford, thence into the country of the Butlers, and into Leinster. They marched not by a prosperous progress by the roads along which they passed from Waterford to Dublin, for the Irish of Leinster were following and pursuing, surrounding and environing them, so that they slew and slaughtered great numbers of them in every road and way by which they passed. The Gaels of Ireland were wont to say that it would have been better for him that he had not gone on this expedition ffom Dublin to Hy-Connell-Gaura, as he returned back after the first conflict that was maintained against him, -without (having received) submission or respect from the Geraldines, and without having achieved in his progress any exploit worth boasting of, excepting only the taking of Cathair-Duine-Iasgaigh."
" After the killing of the president of the two provinces of Munster, and the governor of Connaught, J as we have related in their proper places, the Earl of Essex and O'Neill (Hugh, the son of Fedorcha, son of Con Bacach) came to a conference in the first days of the month of September, and the end of their conference was that a peace was ratified between them till the end of two months, during which time each of

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 144

Fall of Dunboy Castle

near Dunboy · street · Cork · 1602

During the final assault on Dunboy Castle, commander Mac Goghegan was mortally wounded and killed while attempting to blow up the powder vault. The remaining defenders were forced to surrender, and fifty-eight were subsequently executed in the market-place.

Read the passage

" Then Mac Goghegan, chiefs commander of the place, being mortally wounded with divers shott in his body, the rest made choise of one Thomas Taylor, an Englishman's sonne, (the dearest and inwardest man with Tirrell, and married to his neece) to bee their chiefe, who, having nine barrels of powder, drew himselfe and it into the vault, and there sate downe by it, with a light match in his hand, vowing and protesting to set it on fire, and blow up the castle, himselfe, and all the reste, except they might have promise of life, which being by the Lord President refused, (for the safety of our men) his lordship gave direction for a new battery upon the vault, intending to bury them in the mines thereof, and after a few times discharged, and the bullets entering amongst them into the cellar, the rest that were with Taylor, partly by intercession, but chiefly by compulsion, (threatening to deliver him up if hee were obstinate) about ten of the clock in the morning of the same day, constrained him to render himself simply, with eight and fortie more being ready to come forth.
400 HISTORY OF CORK.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 182

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Dunboy, in 1602, the castle held out under its final assault. Mac Goghegan, chief commander of the place, was mortally wounded with several shots in his body. The remaining defenders chose Thomas Taylor, an Englishman's son, the dearest and inwardest man with Tirrell, and married to his niece, to lead them. Taylor drew 9 barrels of powder into the vault and sat down beside it with a lighted match in his hand, vowing to set it on fire and blow up the castle, himself, and all the rest, unless they were promised their lives. The Lord President refused. He ordered a new battery upon the vault, intending to bury them in the mines. After a few discharges, with bullets entering among them into the cellar, the men with Taylor turned against him, partly by intercession but chiefly by compulsion, threatening to deliver him up if he were obstinate. About 10 in the morning they constrained him to surrender, with 48 more ready to come forth. 58 were subsequently executed in the market-place.

Marauding parties ravage Kilbolane indiscriminately

Kilbolane · townland · Cork · 1580

Sir William Pelham's campaign let loose marauding parties in Kilbolane and surrounding areas who showed mercy to none, killing women, boys, girls, sick persons, and old people, and carrying off cattle and provisions.

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Sir William Pelham now opens a fearful campaign against the Earl of Desmond, and all his kith and kin. He writes to England, requesting that an admiral, with a fleet containing ordnance and provisions, should sail round to the coast of Kerry. Vice- Admiral Winter is despatched to cruise about a coast upon which a Spanish or Italian landing was daily and hourly apprehended. Sir William commences his muster, and enrols beneath his standard " all who were subject to the laws, from the Boyne to the meeting of the Three Waters." The Earl of Ormond joined this muster with an immense host. The camp was pitched in Hy- Connello. It was " cold spring." Marauding parties were let loose in Kilmore and the wilds of Delliga, and in Kilbolane, who shewed mercy to none, " It was not wonderful they should kill men fit for action, but they killed blind* and feeble men, women, boys and girls, sick persons, idiots and old people, carrying off their cattle and provisions." In some instances, the people retaliated, and a great number of the English were slain.
The Lord Justice and the Earl of Ormond marched

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 114

Perkin Warbeck arrives in Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1492

Perkin Warbeck arrived in Cork from Lisbon in 1492. He was warmly received by the citizens and the Mayor, merchant John Walters.

Read the passage

Perkin Warbeck arrived in Cork from Lisbon in 1492, where he was kindly received by the citizens, and "caressed," as Doctor Smith says, by John Walters, an eminent merchant, who was Mayor in 1490 and 1492. Perkin Warbeck wrote to Garrett, Earl of Kildare, at this time Lord Deputy, and to the Earl of Desmond, informing them of his arrival ; but before he got their replies, he had received a letter from the French king, inviting him to visit France, for which he set sail, and was " royally entertained," till such time as a treaty of peace was concluded between France and England, when he received intimation that his presence could be dispensed with. He went from France to Flanders, to visit his supposed aunt, the Duchess of Burgundy, where he remained for three years. He set sail from Flanders in 1495, with six hundred men, and made a landing on the coast of Kent, where a hundred and sixty of his followers were made prisoners, and afterwards hanged.
Not liking this sort of treatment, he resolved to try

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 43

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Cork now. In 1492, Perkin Warbeck arrived here from Lisbon, claiming to be the Duke of York. The citizens received him kindly, and Doctor Smith records that John Walters, an eminent merchant who served as Mayor in 1490 and again in 1492, "caressed" him. Warbeck wrote to Garrett, Earl of Kildare, who was then Lord Deputy, and to the Earl of Desmond, telling them of his arrival. But before their replies came, he had a letter from the French king, inviting him to France. He set sail and was, in Doctor Smith's word, "royally entertained" there until a peace treaty was concluded between France and England, at which point he was told his presence could be dispensed with. From France he went to Flanders, to visit his supposed aunt, the Duchess of Burgundy, and stayed there for three years. In 1495 he sailed from Flanders with 600 men and landed on the coast of Kent, where 160 of his followers were taken prisoner and hanged. Not liking that treatment, he resolved to try again elsewhere.

Spenser's allegory of the Bregog, Mulla and Blackwater rivers

near River Blackwater · river · Cork

Spenser's pastoral poem personifies the rivers Bregog and Mulla as lovers, while father Mole (a mountain) favours the Allo or Blackwater as a match for Mulla. The Bregog deceives Mole by dividing its stream and flowing underground to reach the Mulla, but Mole retaliates by rolling down stones to destroy the Bregog's course entirely.

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" Full faine she loved, and was belov'd full faine Of her own brother river, Bregog hight, So hight because of this deceitfull traine, Which he with Mulla wrought to win delight. But her old sire, more careful of her good, And meaning her much better to preferre, Did think to match her with the neighbour flood, "Which Allo hight, Broad- water C8lled farre : And wrought so well with his continual paine, That he that river for his daughter wonne : The dowre agreed, the day assigned plaine, The place appointed where it should be doone. Nath'lesse the nymph her former liking held ; For love will not be drawne but must be ledde ; And Bregog did so well her fancie weld That her good will he got her first to wedde. But for her father sitting still on hie, Did warily still watch which way she went, And eke from far obserVd with jealous eie, Which way his course the wanton Bregog bent ; Him to deceive, for all his watchfull ward, The wily lover did devise this slight : First into many parts his streame ho shar'd, That, whilst the one was watcht, the other might Passe unespide to meete her by the way ; And then, besides, those little streames so broken He under ground so closely did convey, That of their passage doth appear no token, Till they into the Mullaes water slide."
But father Mole has his revenge on the sly Bregog:—*

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 134

Sugan Earl Captured in Aherlow Cave

near Aherlow · population centre · Tipperary · 1600

The Sugan Earl was betrayed by a follower and discovered in the cave of the Grey Sheep above the glen of Aherlow in the mountains of Slieve Grot, Tipperary. Fitzgibbon and Redmond Burke disarmed and bound him, then carried him prisoner to Kilmallock and onward to Shandon Castle, Cork.

Read the passage

Knight's country, Lord Barry, who hates the White Knight as the White Knight does the earl, charges him, in a letter to the Lord President, with harbouring the arch-traitor. A falser charge was never made. The White Knight could never forget it was Fitz-Thomas who exposed his double-dealing to O'Neill, who delivered him to Eedmond Burke, from whom he had lately purchased his liberty. The president sends for Fitzgibbon, " and rebukes him with sharp words and bitter reprehensions" for his negligence in " so important a business." He returns home bemoaning his hard fate. * One of his followers, who " loved him dearly," compassionating his perplexity, said, " Follow me and I will bring you to where he is." Fitzgibbon followed to the cave of the Grey Sheep, above the glen of Aherlow, in the mountains of Slieve Grot in Tipperary. " It had a narrow mouth, yet deepe in the ground."
Fitzgibbon, who was accompanied by Eedmond Burke and six or seven of his own followers, advanced to the mouth of the cave and called out, "James Fitz- Thomas, come out and render yourself a prisoner" The earl came to the mouth of the cave and called on Eedmond Burke to seize Fitzgibbon ; but " the wheel of his fortune being turned," they pointed their swords on himself, and his only companion, a foster-brother. The earl was disarmed, bound, and carried prisoner to Kilmallock, from Kilmallock to Shandon Castle, Cork, where the president, Sir George Carew, resided, and from Cork to the Tower of London, where he died, and lies buried with his cousin the Parliamentary Earl.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 151

Brian Bora plunders Limerick from the Danes

Limerick · city · Limerick · 976

Brian Bora, king of Thomond, slew Ivor and his sons, allies of Donovan, and plundered Limerick, which was in Danish hands. He then assumed the chief kingship of the province.

Read the passage

Brian Bora, who became king of Thomond, on his brother Mahon's death, directed his first efforts against Donovan's allies, the Danes of Limerick.* and slew Ivor, (who first suggested the murder,) and two of his sons. Upon their death, Donovan sent for Harold, another of Ivor's sons, whom Brian also slew, plundering Limerick, which was in their hands. He then assumed the chief kingship of Mu aster, and left no stone unturned to bring the whole province under his iron heel, and that of his successors.
The murder of Mahon was fearfully avenged, more than a century after, by the murder of Cormac, the bishop king of Desmond, one of the progenitors of the noble house of Mac Carthy. The Mac Carthy's are tho descendants of Aenghus, the first Christian king of Munster. He flourished in the fifth century. He received the rite of baptism from the hands of the great Irish Apostle, Saint Patrick, on the Eock of Cashel. An interesting circumstance, well calculated to put the faith of the new convert to the test, occurred on that occasion. Saint Patrick's crosier was so placed as to pierce the king's foot to the bone. He supposing it to be part of the ceremony of initiation, bore it like a Christian soldier, without wincing. Aenghus fell in battle at Cell-Osnadha.f There is a story that his

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

The city of Limerick ahead of you was in Danish hands in 976. Brian Bora, who became king of Thomond on his brother Mahon's death, directed his first efforts against Donovan's allies, the Danes of Limerick. He slew Ivor, who first suggested the murder, and two of his sons. Upon their death, Donovan sent for Harold, another of Ivor's sons. Brian slew him too, plundering Limerick, which was in their hands. He then assumed the chief kingship of Munster, and left no stone unturned to bring the whole province under his iron heel and that of his successors. The murder of Mahon was fearfully avenged more than a century after by the murder of Cormac, the bishop king of Desmond, one of the progenitors of the noble house of Mac Carthy. The Mac Carthys are the descendants of Aenghus, the first Christian king of Munster. He flourished in the fifth century and received the rite of baptism from the hands of Saint Patrick on the Rock of Cashel. Patrick's crosier pierced the king's foot to the bone. He supposed it to be part of the ceremony of initiation and bore it without wincing. Aenghus fell in battle at Cell-Osnadha.

Maurice of Desmond holds Carrigaline castle and barony

Carrigaline · town · Cork

The earl settled the whole barony of Kerricurrihy upon Maurice of Desmond, with the castle of Carrigaline, in which he penned a letter seeking further advancement. He had previously murdered the Court-Page to open his brother's way to the earldom.

Read the passage

It was a falsehood to say he was nothing promoted by his brother, for the earl settled the whole barony of Kerricurrihy upon him, with the castle of Carrigaline, in which he penned this lie. But it is probable he did not esteem this worthy of his services in murdering the Court-Page, and thus opening his brother's way to the earldom. He speaks of being promoted. He richly deserved it — at the hands of the hangman. He was slain some time after this, when caught preying on the estates of his son-in-law* of Muskerry.
Patrick Myagh, Mayor of Cork, wrote to the Lord Deputy, stating that one " Tamsin," or Thomson, and Ttichard Stephenson, lately in the pay of Kobert St. Leger, had arrived in Cork, on Christmas-day, in a ship laden with wines, figs, and sugar, offering to trade. Very proper commodities for Christmas, though a day or so too late. The mayor wishes to know whether he is to trade, or seize the ship and apprehend the owners.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 82

Young Gerald of Kildare sheltered at Kilbrittain Castle

near Kilbrittain · street · Cork · 1537–1538

Gerald Fitzgerald, the young son of the late Earl of Kildare and brother of Silken Thomas, took shelter at Kilbrittain Castle at the home of his aunt Lady Elinor Fitzgerald, widow of MacCarthy Reagh. She later married Manus O'Donnell on condition he protect Gerald, but quit her husband when he tried to betray the boy.

Read the passage

* Young Gerali of Kildare. — He was brother to Silken Thomas and to the Fair Geraldine. The young earl, -who was at this time about 13 years of age, took shelter at Kilbrittan Castle, in this county, at the house of Lady Elinor Fitzgerald, his aunt, who was widow to Mac Carthy Eeagh. She afterwards married Manus O'Donnel, and made it one of the marriage articles that he should protect her nephew Gerald. She afterwards quitted her husband for endeavourto betray the boy.
t Delivered his son. — This was Thomas, the eldest son, by Joan Roche, the daughter of Lord Roche, or Viscount Fermoy, whom he divorced in order to marry Maud O'Carrol. Maister William Wise, who was sheriffe ofWaterford, in a letter to Crumwell, writes, " James of Desmond has sent over to England his son Thomas, whose mother is the Lord Roche's doghter, whom he put away, and now occupycth O'KarrolPs doghter, by whom he hath issue." — Lamb. Lib. v. 602, leaf 105. — So Henry did not get ihc right son after all.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 68

Battle of Bealach-leachta: Mallow tradition

Mallow · town · Cork · 978

In 978 Brian Boru and his son Moragh fought the battle of Bealach-leachta against Molloy and the Danes of Munster. An ancient manuscript places the battle at Cnoc-ramhra, south of Mallow on the road to Cork.

Read the passage

" A.D. 978. Brian, son of ^Kennedy, and his son Moragh, at the head of the Dal-glais, fought the battle of Bealach-leachta, against Maolmuaidh [Molloy] son of Bran, at the head of the Eugenians, with the additional forces of the Danes of Munster. In this battle, Maolmuaidh was slain by the hand of Moragh, son of Brian ; two hundred of the Danes were also slain, together with a great number of the Irish " Some think this battle was fought at Bearna-dhearg, (Red-Chair) on Sliabh-Caoin. An ancient manuscript says at Cnoc-ramhra, south of Mallow, on the road to Cork ; another ancient manuscript, at Magh Cromtha (Macroom), near Muisire-na-inona-moire, or Mushera mountain."
*"St, Barry's Gospel." — There is no such manuscript or book now in existence. Doctors Todd and 0' Donovan, of Trinity College, agree with me in thinking it must have been a copy of the Four Gospels, written by the priests of Saiiit Finn Burr's of Cork.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 2

Youghal Sacked by Earl of Desmond

Youghal · town · Cork · 1579

The Earl of Desmond and his rebel forces entered Youghal without effective resistance, remaining about five days rifling and carrying off goods to Strancally and Kilfinan castles. The Geraldines levelled the town walls, broke down its courts and castles, and left it uninhabitable for some time afterwards.

Read the passage

Holinshed's description is more circumstantial : — " The proclaimed traitor of Desmond and his brothers, not able anie longer to shrowd his treacheries, went with all his forces to the towne of Youghall, where against his comming the gates of the towne were shut, but yet it was thought but colourable, for verie shortly after, without deniall or resistance, the earl and all his troupe of rebels entered the town and took it, and there remained about five daies, rifleing and carrieing awaie the goods and household stuff to the castell of Strangecallie and Lefinnen, the which then were kept by the Spaniards."
The Earl of Ormond dispatched a barque, with Captain White, from Waterford, " a very valiant man of a stout stomach," to retake the town. He entered by the water-gate, and took some pieces of ordnance. He was attacked by the seneschal of Imokilly, at the head of a superior force, whom he charged more " rashlie than consideratlie," and was very soon surrounded and slain ; and with much ado did a few of his company gain their ship.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 113

Ambush of Raleigh at the ford near Chore Abbey

Midleton · town · Cork · 1580

The seneschal of Imokilly laid an ambush for Raleigh on the banks of the stream near the old abbey from which Midleton derived its ancient name of Chore Alley. The place where Raleigh crossed, near the distillery, was pointed out in later times.

Read the passage

We find Captain Ealeigh in Cork this year. He seems to have had a constable's commission for arresting persons suspected of disloyalty, and, to do him justice, manifested as much zeal as foolish daring in the discharge of his office. He sets out from Cork to Dublin to make a complaint to his patron, Lord Grey, of the Barrys and Condons, for assisting the rebels, and receives instructions to besiege the castle of Barrys- Court, which he sets about with a will. But he had to deal with resolute and cunning men. Lord Barry fired his castle of Barrys-Court, and his friend, Fitzgerald, the seneschal of Imokilly, set an ambush for the English captain on his return. They lay on the banks of the stream, near the old abbey from which Midleton derived its ancient name of Chore Alley* The place where Ealeigh crossed (near Mr. Murphy's distillery) is pointed out to the present day. Holmshed's account of the affair is amusing enough : —
" Captain Ealeigh, not mistrusting any thing, had with him only two horsemen, four shot on horseback, and a guide, who was servant to John Fitz-Edmonds, of Cloyne, then a good subject to the queen, and who knew every corner of the country. Being arrived at the ford, the seneschal observing him alone, having outrode his men, clapt spurs to his horse, and crossed him in the water ; however, Ealeigh regained the other side, at which time his guide thought proper to forsake him, and fled towards an adjacent ruined castle for shelter.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 116

The history of the county and city of Cork (vol. 1)

The stories, best first

Arrest of De Courcy at Downpatrick church

Imprisoned Munster lords in saffron shirts at Dublin Castle

Escape through Wicklow to Glenmalure

Perkin Warbeck's declaration about arrival in Cork

Spanish vessels arrive at Castlehaven

Surprise night attack on Captain Tirrell's camp in Muskerry

Saint Patrick baptises Aenghus on the Rock of Cashel

Clancarty's devastating raid on Lord Roche at Castletown

Kidnapping of Hugh Roe O'Donnell at Lough Swilly

Macroom Castle destroyed by accidental pig-singeing fire

Murder of Archbishop John Allen at Artane

Murder of Mahon at Bruree (976)

O'Donnell evades English force near Holycross

O'Neill encamps near Kinsale, besieging the besiegers

St. Leger and Maguire killed near Cork

Capture of the Earl of Ormond near Kilkenny

Death of Fitzmaurice in battle at Connello and Clanwilliam

Florence Mac Carthy's secret marriage in a ruined Kerry church

Infant Earl carried off by monkey at Tralee Castle

O'Sullivan's men retake Dunboy Castle from Spaniards

Mayor Coppinger Hanged Before His Own Door

Desmond's body interred at Kilnamanagh chapel

Donnell O'Sullivan Beare commits Dunboy to the King of Spain

Earl of Desmond's hospitality anecdote at Mogeely Castle

English forces strip Kinsale district of food and break mills

Failed ruse to seize Blarney Castle under guise of hunting

Florence MacCarthy arrested, compromised in Spanish landing at Kinsale

Inchiquin — principal residence of the Old Countess

Kinsale depopulated by pestilence and blockaded by pirates

Lambert Simnel crowned in Christ Church, Dublin

Massacre at Smerwick Fort

Rebels threaten to take Cork and Kinsale

Shandon Castle: presidential lodging and intercepted letters

Smerwick massacre of surrendered garrison

Spanish forces occupy Kinsale, 1601

Spenser driven from Kilcolman Castle

Surprise attack on Desmond's camp at Aghadoe

Throwing the Dart at Cork harbour mouth

Cormac Mac Carthy of Muskerry joins English against Spaniards

Davells and Carter murdered at Tralee

Execution of Thomas, Earl of Desmond at Drogheda

O'Neill plunders Barrymore

Strancally Castle and Its Subterranean Dungeon

Waterford subjects driven naked to city gates by rebels

Beheading of prisoners at Waterford market

Captain Love reports Spanish fleet sighting from Cork harbour

Castle of Donneshed at Baltimore surrendered to Spanish

Don Juan describes Kinsale town and orders fort built on harbour island

Essex's retreat through Dungarvan, 1599

Fall of Dunboy Castle

Marauding parties ravage Kilbolane indiscriminately

Perkin Warbeck arrives in Cork

Spenser's allegory of the Bregog, Mulla and Blackwater rivers

Sugan Earl Captured in Aherlow Cave

Brian Bora plunders Limerick from the Danes

Maurice of Desmond holds Carrigaline castle and barony

Young Gerald of Kildare sheltered at Kilbrittain Castle

Battle of Bealach-leachta: Mallow tradition

Youghal Sacked by Earl of Desmond

Ambush of Raleigh at the ford near Chore Abbey