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

Cormac Oge MacCarthy seeks English favour near Cork, 1521

Surrey reported to Wolsey that Cormac Oge MacCarthy, dwelling near Cork, offered to become the king's subject and take his lands from the king, desiring to be made a baron. MacCarthy showed a great charter granted to his grandfather under the great seal of England.

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by me in all causes between them." Writing again to "Wolsey he says, " a great capteyne of Irishmen, called Cormocke Oge, dwelling nygh Cork, who is a sadd wise man, and very desirous to become the king's subject, as an Englyshman, offering to take his landes of the king ; but what yearly rent he would giye I am not certain ; desiring also to be made a baron, and to come to parliamentes and counsailes. He hath shewed me a great charter, granted to his grandfather by the king's noble progenitors, under the great seal of England." Surrey, after duly examining the charter, recommends that he should be encouraged, and adds, " surely he is substantiall of his promyse."
One Eichard Peper, of Calais, who had been robbing on the high seas, was brought into Cork in 1521, with twenty of his companions. Surrey wrote to the king to know what he should do with them, adding, " I have noon authoritie to put them to deth, and the long keeping of them will be chargeable to your grace. I have none of their names, but Eychard Peper, wherefore, if your grace would have them put to deth, there must be lefte a blanke in the comyssion for their names to be put in."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 54

As the companion tells it

As the road passes through Cork, this is where in 1521 Surrey wrote to Wolsey about a great captain of Irishmen called Cormac Oge, dwelling near the city. Surrey described him as a sad wise man, very desirous to become the king's subject, as an Englishman, offering to take his lands from the king. What yearly rent he would give, Surrey was not certain. Cormac Oge desired also to be made a baron, and to come to parliaments and councils. He showed Surrey a great charter, granted to his grandfather by the king's noble progenitors, under the great seal of England. Surrey, after examining the charter, recommended that he should be encouraged, and added, "surely he is substantiall of his promyse." That same year, Richard Peper of Calais, who had been robbing on the high seas, was brought into Cork with 20 of his companions. Surrey wrote to the king to know what he should do with them. "I have noon authoritie to put them to deth," he wrote, "and the long keeping of them will be chargeable to your grace." He had none of their names but Richard Peper, and said if the king wanted them put to death, there must be left a blank in the commission for their names to be put in.

Kilmallock burnt by rebels before Sydney's arrival

Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1569

The Lord Deputy Sydney pursued the rebels from Cork through Buttevant to Kilmallock, but the town was burnt before he could arrive. This was part of the wider Desmond rebellion campaign.

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Mac Carthy Beagh, James Fitz-Edmund, and others, were on the qui-vive, waiting the word to start into actual rebellion. It was reported that the Earl of Desmond had sent word to his people to unite with the other Irish chieftains in throwing off the English yoke. Andrew Skiddy, writing to the Lord Deputy, says, — " Yesterday, Mac Carthy More, whom I dare not name an earl, and James Fitzmaurice, spoiled all the inhabitants of Kerrycurrihy, and the farm Sir Warham Sentleger has of the Earl of Desmond, and laid siege to the abbey of Tracton." The mayors and councils of Cork, Youghal, and Kinsale also write. The Lady Ursula St. Leger, who is besieged by the rebels in the castle of Carrigaline, writes the Deputy to this effect :— " On Wednesday, Sir Warham St. Leger, the sheriff of Cork, left for England. The next morning James Fitzmaurice, with 4000 men, spoiled Kerrycurrihy ; on Friday they took Tracton, and slew John Enchedon and all his men ; on Saturday they laid siege to the castle of Carrigaline." Jaspar Horsey, writing, says, "St. Warham St. Leger's tall ship* is threatened." Sydney did not lose an hour in marching to the lady's relief. Most opportune, he found four hundred newly arrived troops in Cork. He followed the rebels from Cork to Buttevant, and from Buttevant to Kilmallock, which was burnt before his arrival. The
• St. Warham St. Leger's tall ship.— The district farmed by St. Leger under the Earl of Desmond, was called De Cogan's ship. It is to a great extent surrounded by water.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 96

As the companion tells it

Kilmallock, in county Limerick, was a town the Lord Deputy Sydney reached too late. In 1569 the Earl of Desmond had sent word to his people to unite with the other Irish chieftains in throwing off the English yoke. Mac Carthy Beagh and James Fitz-Edmund were waiting for the signal. Andrew Skiddy wrote to the Lord Deputy that Mac Carthy More, whom he dared not name an earl, and James Fitzmaurice had spoiled all the inhabitants of Kerrycurrihy and laid siege to the abbey of Tracton. The Lady Ursula St. Leger, besieged by the rebels in the castle of Carrigaline, wrote that James Fitzmaurice came with 4000 men, spoiled Kerrycurrihy on the Thursday, took Tracton on the Friday and slew John Enchedon and all his men, and on the Saturday laid siege to her castle. Jaspar Horsey wrote that St. Warham St. Leger's tall ship was threatened. Sydney did not lose an hour. He marched to the lady's relief and found in Cork four hundred newly arrived troops. He followed the rebels from Cork to Buttevant, and from Buttevant to Kilmallock, which was burnt before his arrival.

Lord Justice wounded at the Blackwater and dies at Newry

near Newry · town · Down · 1597

In 1597 the Lord Justice encountered a troop of O'Neill's horse on the banks of the Abhainn-Mor (Blackwater) and was wounded. He was carried in a litter to Newry, where he died of his wounds.

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The Annals of Ireland record, under the same year, 1597, the deaths of the Earl of Kildare, the Lord Justice, and his wife's brother. The Lord Justice fell in with a troop of O'Neill's horse, on the banks of the Abhainn-Mor, or Blackwater, where he was wounded. He was carried in a litter to Newry, where he died. The sword of state was therefore entrusted to the Lord Chancellor, the Chief Justice of the Queen's Bench, antt Sir Eobert Gardiner, till a new Chief Justice or Deputy was appointed. Thomas, Earl of Ormond was appointed Generalissimo, who concluded an armistice with O'Neill. When the armistice concluded, Marshal Bagnell, whose sister had eloped with and married O'Neill, met this redoubtable chieftain between Lough Erne and Dundalk, and fell, mortally wounded, at the famous battle of the Yellow Ford.f It was fought on the 10th of August, 1598. The account of this battle, in which the English were defeated, spread like wildfire through the South, and kindled a warlike flame in the bosom of James Fitz-Thomas, the Sugan Earl of Desmond, who considered himself the legitimate heir to the title and vast estates of his outlawed uncle, Garrett. He and his brother John opened the campaign in Qmnello. Sir Thomas Norris, President of Munster, was lying at Kilmallock. The Earl of
* Died suddenly. — 0' Sullivan Beare tells a story of Sir John and the devil, which Doctor 0' Donovan says would do credit to the author of Doctor Faustus. f Yellow Ford. — Beal an-atha-buidhe, »'*., mouth of the Yellow Ford.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 132

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Newry, this town holds the death of a Lord Justice in 1597. The Annals of Ireland record that year as the deaths of the Earl of Kildare, the Lord Justice, and his wife's brother. The Lord Justice fell in with a troop of O'Neill's horse on the banks of the Abhainn-Mor, the Blackwater, where he was wounded. He was carried in a litter to Newry, where he died. After his death, the sword of state was entrusted to the Lord Chancellor, the Chief Justice of the Queen's Bench, and Sir Robert Gardiner, until a new Chief Justice or Deputy was appointed. Thomas, Earl of Ormond, was appointed Generalissimo, and concluded an armistice with O'Neill. When the armistice ended, Marshal Bagnell, whose sister had eloped with and married O'Neill, met this chieftain between Lough Erne and Dundalk. He fell, mortally wounded, at the battle of the Yellow Ford, fought on the 10th of August 1598. The English were defeated, and news of it spread like wildfire through the South, kindling a warlike flame in James Fitz-Thomas, the Sugan Earl of Desmond, who considered himself the legitimate heir to the title and vast estates of his outlawed uncle, Garrett. He and his brother John opened the campaign. Sir Thomas Norris, President of Munster, was lying at Kilmallock.

Munster rebellion erupts after withdrawal to Cork, 1598

Cork · city · Cork · 1598

When Sir Thomas Norris withdrew his forces to Cork in October 1598, Munster men broke into rebellion, joined with Tyrone's forces, spoiled the country, burnt villages, and pulled down the houses and castles of the English settlers.

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"After the defeat at the Blackwater, Tyrone sent Ony Mao Eory O'More, and one Captain Tyrel, (of English race, but a bold and unnatural enemy to his country and the English,) to trouble the province of Munster, against whom Sir Thomas Norris, Lord President, opposed himself; but as soon as he, upon necessary occasions, had withdrawn his forces to Cork, many of the Munster men now, first about October, 1598, broke into rebellion, and joined themselves with Tyrone's said forces, spoiled the country, * burnt the villages, and pulled down the houses and castles of the English, against whom (especially the female sex,) they committed all abominable outrages.
"And now they raised James Fitz-Thomas, to be Earl of Desmond, (which title had, since the wars of Desmond, been suppressed,) with condition that (forsooth,) he should be vassal to O'Neal. The Munster rebellion broke out like a lightening, for in one month's space, almost all the Irish were in rebellious arms — the English were murdered, or stript and banished. Thus having inflamed Munster with the fire of rebellion, and leaving this sedition to be cherished and increased by this new Earl of Desmond, and other rebels of that province, the Ulster forces returned back to Tyrone. The infection which Munster men have drawn from the corrupted party in rebellion

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 133

As the companion tells it

Cork, in October 1598, became the point from which a rebellion spread across Munster. After the defeat at the Blackwater, Tyrone sent Ony Mao Eory O'More and Captain Tyrel, a man of English race but, as the record has it, a bold and unnatural enemy to his country and the English, to trouble the province of Munster. Sir Thomas Norris, Lord President, opposed them. But when he withdrew his forces to Cork, the Munster men broke into rebellion. They joined with Tyrone's forces, spoiled the country, burnt the villages, and pulled down the houses and castles of the English. The source says they committed all abominable outrages, especially against the female sex. They raised James Fitz-Thomas to be Earl of Desmond, a title suppressed since the wars of Desmond, on condition he should be vassal to O'Neal. The rebellion broke out like lightning. In one month's space, almost all the Irish were in rebellious arms. The English were murdered, or stripped and banished. Having inflamed Munster with the fire of rebellion, the Ulster forces left the sedition to be increased by this new Earl of Desmond and other rebels, and returned to Tyrone.

Perkin Warbeck visits Cork; Earl of Desmond raises men

Cork · city · Cork · 1497–1499

After the siege of Waterford, Perkin Warbeck visited Cork, where the Earl of Desmond raised 120 men and procured vessels for a descent upon Cornwall. The Earl was later pardoned and received grants of customs in the ports of Cork, Kinsale, Baltimore, and Youghal.

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Doctor Ryland does not inform us, that after the siege of Waterford, Perkin visited Cork, where the Earl of Desmond raised a hundred and twenty men, and procured vessels to enable him to make a descent upen Cornwall. Here he was well received, and joined by thousands. He assumed the title of Kichard IV., and laid siege to the city of Exeter, which shut its gates against him. He was compelled, on the approach of the king's troops, to raise the siege, and flee from the royal ire to the sanctuary of Beaulieu. After a time he surrendered himself, and was imprisoned in the tower, with the young Earl of Warwick. Perkin escaped from the tower, was retaken, and hanged.
We omit the " two letters," as we are not writing the history of Waterford, although they are very complimentary. Henry, like a wise monarch, reserved his more substantial favors for his enemies. The Earl of Desmond, who provided both men and arms for the siege, was not only pardoned, but received " a grant of the customs of Limerick, and other the king's heriditaments in the ports, city, and towns of Cork, Kinsale, Baltimore and Youghal."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 44

As the companion tells it

Cork stands along this road, a city with a piece of a strange story in its past. After the siege of Waterford, Perkin Warbeck came here, and the Earl of Desmond raised 120 men for him, and procured vessels to make a descent upon Cornwall. Warbeck was well received in Cork, and joined by thousands. He assumed the title of Richard the Fourth, and laid siege to the city of Exeter, which shut its gates against him. He was compelled, on the approach of the king's troops, to raise the siege, and flee from the royal anger to the sanctuary of Beaulieu. After a time he surrendered, and was imprisoned in the Tower, with the young Earl of Warwick. He escaped from the Tower, was retaken, and hanged. Henry reserved his more substantial favours for his enemies. The Earl of Desmond, who provided both men and arms, was not only pardoned but received a grant of the customs of Limerick and other the king's hereditaments in the ports, city, and towns of Cork, Kinsale, Baltimore, and Youghal.

Raymond Le Gros granted inheritance in Kerry

Lixnaw · town · Kerry · 1172

Dermot, king of Cork, bestowed a princely inheritance in Kerry on Raymond Le Gros in gratitude for suppressing Cormac's rebellion. Raymond made it over to his eldest son Maurice, whose descendants became the Fitzmaurice barons of Lixnaw.

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was then besieging Limerick. Raymond did not hesitate a moment, but marched, with a strong force, against Cormac, whom he arrested, and delivered into the hands of his infuriated parent, who had him beheaded. The Annals of Ireland say he was "treacherously slain by his own people." The father expressed his gratitude to the Norman knight, by bestowing on him a princely inheritance in Kerry, which then formed part of the kingdom of Cork, Raymond made over the inheritance on his eldest son, Maurice, the descen dents of whom became powerful chieftains, under the name of Fitzmaurice, and barons of Lixnaw.*
It was two years after the signing of the charter, before Fitzstephen and De Cogan took possession of seven of the thirty -two cantreds, into which the kingdom of Cork was divided. The arrangement is thus recorded by Giraldus Cambrensis : —

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 11

As the companion tells it

Lixnaw in Kerry carries the mark of a Norman reward. Raymond Le Gros had been besieging Limerick when he marched with a strong force against Cormac, arrested him, and handed him over to his own father, who had him beheaded. The Annals of Ireland say he was "treacherously slain by his own people." Dermot, king of Cork, gave Raymond a princely inheritance in Kerry, which then formed part of the kingdom of Cork, in gratitude for suppressing the rebellion. Raymond made the inheritance over to his eldest son, Maurice. Maurice's descendants became powerful chieftains under the name Fitzmaurice, and barons of Lixnaw. It was two years after the signing of the charter before Fitzstephen and De Cogan took possession of seven of the thirty-two cantreds into which the kingdom of Cork was divided. Giraldus Cambrensis recorded the arrangement.

Secret supper at Youghal implicating Desmond in treason

Youghal · town · Cork · 1538

A merchant arriving from overseas at Youghal reported a private supper at William Walsh's house, attended by James, the Pretended Earl of Desmond. During the conversation, Desmond allegedly asked about the Emperor, and Walsh made remarks critical of the King of England's council, raising suspicions of treasonable dealings.

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" I have spoken to a neighbour of mine, a merchant of this citie, [Waterford] who came from Youghal, where he lately arrived from partes beyond the seas. He shewed me, in a secret manner, that on his coming on land at Youghal, he went to William Walsh's house, and there, in the said William's chamber, James, the
148 HISTOEY OF COEK.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 70

As the companion tells it

Youghal, in County Cork. In 1538, a merchant arriving from overseas went to William Walsh's house and found James, the Pretended Earl of Desmond, there at a private supper. Desmond asked about the Emperor. Walsh spoke against the King of England's council. Word of the meeting came back through a Waterford merchant, raising suspicions of treasonable dealings.

Ship from St. Malo arrives at Kinsale

Kinsale · town · Cork

The mayor of Cork reported the arrival of a big ship at Kinsale from St. Malo, en route to Galway, laden with wine and hides. He sought the king's instructions concerning whether pirates should be apprehended or killed.

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c< murdrede by twenty -three foynes of an Irish knyffe, given him in the very hart." William Davis, an English gentleman of rank, was cruelly murdered in the city this year, of which the mayor does not inform the Deputy, but goes on to say, that O'Sullivan Beare* had accepted a "large ransom" for the liberation of John Tomson and other pirates. They promise that no soldiers or other persons shall leave the realm without special license and passport, and that they will make a strong fortress for the defence of the town. They complain that their harbour, and their whole line of coast, is haunted and harassed by English adventurers. They mention the arrival of a "big ship " at Kinsale, from St. Malo, en route to Galway, with wine and hides, and desire to know the king's pleasure concerning pirates — whether they should apprehend or kill them? They inform the Deputy, that "a great ship of Venice, of seven hundred tons burthen," together with other vessels, laden with Malmsey and Spanish wool, have been driven into Cork harbour by stress of weather. The Malmsey has been seized and sent as a present to the king, which was likely to settle the question of their right of seizure. The letter goes on to state, that certain wild Irish, coming one night to make a prey near Cork, were met by the Lord Barry, who was going to do the like on certain other wild Irish, and that the Lord Barry killed eighty of them. It would appear from a letter, written from Carrigaline, the 2nd of December, 1548, that Maurice of Desmond, the earl's brother, had not the same scruples
* Dermot O'Sullivan Scare was blown up in his own castle, by accident, with gunpowder, this year, and his brother Amlavus, who succeeded him, was killed soon after.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 81

As the companion tells it

You are coming up on Kinsale. The mayor of Cork wrote to the Deputy with a string of troubles. He said a big ship had arrived at Kinsale from St. Malo, bound for Galway, carrying wine and hides. He wanted to know the king's pleasure concerning pirates: whether they should apprehend them or kill them. The harbour and the whole line of coast were haunted and harassed by English adventurers. O'Sullivan Beare had accepted a large ransom for the liberation of John Tomson and other pirates. They promised no soldiers or other persons would leave the realm without special license and passport, and that they would build a strong fortress for the defence of the town. A great ship of Venice, of 700 tons burthen, together with other vessels laden with Malmsey and Spanish wool, had been driven into Cork harbour by stress of weather. The Malmsey was seized and sent as a present to the king, which was likely to settle the question of their right of seizure. The mayor also mentioned that William Davis, an English gentleman of rank, was cruelly murdered in the city that year. And certain wild Irish, coming one night to make a prey near Cork, were met by the Lord Barry, who was going to do the like on certain other wild Irish. The Lord Barry killed 80 of them.

Spaniards Driven from Strancally Castle

Strancally · townland · Waterford · 1579

After the sacking of Youghal, a Spanish garrison holding Strancally Castle was approached by English soldiers under Sir William Stanley and Captain Zouch. The Spaniards abandoned the castle and fled across the water, but were pursued and mostly slain; the Lord Governor placed a ward in the castle.

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11 The Spaniards, who kept alwais good watch, and had also verie good espials abrode, they were forthwith advertised that a companie of souldiers were drawing and marching towards the said castell, and when they themselves saw it to be true, and had discovered them, they began to distrust themselves, and to doubt of their abilitie how to withstand them. Wherefore, abandoning and forsaking the castell, they passed over the water, thinking to recover the woods, and so to escape the present danger. But Sir William Stanleie, Capteine Zouch, Capteine Piers, Capteine Roberts, and all their companies, did so egerlie follow and pursue them, that in the end they overtook them, and slue all or the most part of them, and so tooke the castell, wherein the Lord Governour placed a ward."
We have an account next year, 1580, of the capture and death of James Oge, one of the Earl of Desmond's brothers, who made a raid into Muskerry. He was

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 113

As the companion tells it

Somewhere near here, in 1579, a Spanish garrison held Strancally Castle. They kept good watch and had spies abroad, and they were warned that soldiers were marching toward the castle. When they saw it themselves, they doubted their own ability to withstand the attack. They abandoned the castle and crossed over the water, hoping to reach the woods and escape. But Sir William Stanley, Captain Zouch, Captain Piers, Captain Roberts, and all their companies pursued them so eagerly that they overtook them and slew all or the most part of them. They took the castle, and the Lord Governor placed a ward in it. This came after the sacking of Youghal, when Spanish forces still held strong points in the country.

Spanish and Italian troops land at Dún an Óir

Dunanore · enclosure · Kerry · 1580

In 1580, a fleet carrying Italian and Spanish troops landed at Dún an Óir (Fort of Gold) in Smerwick harbour, Kerry. The fort was situated on a small rocky islet with perpendicular sides rising fifty feet above the sea.

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A fleet, composed of Italian and Spanish troops, landed at Dun-an-Oir* or the "Fort of Gold," in the harbour of Smerwick, in Kerry, this year. The fort stood on a small islet, whose perpendicular sides rise fifty feet above the sea.
The Lord Deputy writes to Burleigh for aid, and tells him to stand stoutly to the helm, as a great storm is at hand. He could not borrow more than two hundred pounds in Dublin on the security of the state. He adds, " I will visit the guests with the adventure of my life."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 114

As the companion tells it

This is Dún an Óir, the Fort of Gold, in Smerwick harbour, Kerry. In 1580, a fleet carrying Italian and Spanish troops landed at the fort. The fort stood on a small islet whose perpendicular sides rose 50 feet above the sea. The Lord Deputy wrote to Burleigh for aid, telling him to stand stoutly to the helm, as a great storm was at hand. He could not borrow more than 200 pounds in Dublin on the security of the state. He added, "I will visit the guests with the adventure of my life."

Warder of Strancally Castle slain

Strancally · townland · Waterford · 1581

During the pursuit of John of Desmond, Thomas Fleming killed his former master Sir John of Desmond with a spear, and James Fitz-John, the warder of Strancally castle, was slain at the same time.

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starting for Limerick. This report put John of Desmond off his guard. O'Daly says, that Thomas Fleming, formerly a servant of Sir John of Desmond, plunged a spear into his master's throat ; that Zouch wished to take him alive. James Fitz-John, the warder of Strancally castle, was slain at the same time.
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.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 118

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in 1581, a warder of Strancally castle lost his life. The pursuit of John of Desmond was underway. A report had gone round that forces were starting for Limerick, and this put John of Desmond off his guard. O'Daly records what followed. Thomas Fleming, formerly a servant of Sir John of Desmond, plunged a spear into his master's throat. Captain Zouch had wished to take him alive. James Fitz-John, the warder of Strancally castle, was slain at the same time. The condition of the old outlawed Earl of Desmond was almost desperate. His pursuers, headed by Captain Zouch, were every day narrowing the circle around him. But he generally managed to break through, either distancing his pursuers or keeping 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. Before dawn on Sunday, the 4th of January, 1581, his encampment near Aghadoe was surprised. The earl and countess, who had sat by the watch fires all night, were buried in deep sleep when 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 neighbouring river, where they remained for two or three hours "up to their chins in water."

Blarney Castle agreed to be yielded to the Spaniards

near Blarney · townland · Cork

Cormock MacCarthy agreed to surrender his strong Castle of Blarney, situated within two miles of Cork, to the Spaniards immediately upon their landing, having received eight hundred ducats from Owen Mac Eggan. This deposition was confirmed by testimony from other credible persons.

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11 Moreover, hee was deposed (by vertue of which oath he affirmed) that upon his knowledge Cormock had secret conference with Owen Mac Eggan, since his last arrivall out of Spaiue, and that from him hee had received eight hundred duckets impresse, and thereupon had accorded to yeeld into the Spaniards hands (immediately upon their landing) his strong Castle of the Blarny, situate within two miles of Corke, which deposition was afterwards confirmed by the testimony and evidence of sundry other credible personages; these informations concurring with the examinations of Dermond Mac Cartie, by the Spaniard called Don Dermutio, (executed at Corke, of whom before you have heard) and also manyfold proofes, existing of his often combination with Tyrone, O'Donnell, Florence
406 HISTORY OF CORK.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 185

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Blarney stands a castle that was nearly handed to a foreign power. A man giving sworn testimony said Cormock MacCarthy held a secret meeting with Owen Mac Eggan, who had lately arrived from Spain. From him Cormock received eight hundred ducats in advance. On that basis he agreed to yield his strong Castle of Blarney, within two miles of Cork, into the hands of the Spaniards immediately upon their landing. This deposition was afterwards confirmed by the testimony of other credible persons. These informations agreed with the examinations of Dermond Mac Cartie, called Don Dermutio by the Spaniards, who was executed at Cork. There were also many proofs of his combination with Tyrone, O'Donnell, and Florence.

College of Youghal founded by Earl of Desmond, 1464

Youghal · town · Cork · 1464

Thomas, the Eighth Earl of Desmond, founded the College of Youghal in 1464. He was described by the Four Masters as the most illustrious of his tribe in Ireland for his hospitality, charity, humanity to the poor, and bounteousness to laity, clergy, and poets.

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The College of Youghal was founded by him, in 1464. The Four Masters style him "the most illustrious of his tribe in Ireland, in his time, for his comeliness and stature, for his hospitality and chivalry, his charity and humanity to the poor, and the indigent of the Lord." They praise him for his lt bounteousness in bestowing juels and riches on the laity, and clergy, and poets, and his suppression of theft, and immorality.''
He was a great favorite with Edward IY., Xing of England, and stood in the relation of godfather to George, Duke of Clarence. He went to England in 1464, and returned Lord Chief Justice of Ireland, which high honor must have begotten no small jealousy in the bosoms of the Butlers, and other Irish and English lords ; but some repaired to his court in Dublin.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 37

As the companion tells it

Youghal is a town on the Cork coast. In 1464 Thomas, the Eighth Earl of Desmond, founded a college there. The Four Masters called him "the most illustrious of his tribe in Ireland in his time, for his comeliness and stature, for his hospitality and chivalry, his charity and humanity to the poor." They praised his bounteousness in bestowing jewels and riches on the laity, clergy, and poets, and his suppression of theft and immorality. He was a favourite of Edward the Fourth, King of England, and godfather to George, Duke of Clarence. In 1464 he went to England and came back Lord Chief Justice of Ireland. That honour would have stirred jealousy among the Butlers and other Irish and English lords, though some came to his court in Dublin.

Cromwell orders restoration of William Spencer's Fermoy estate

Fermoy · townland · Cork · 1657

Oliver Cromwell's letter of March 1657 authorized the Council in Ireland to restore William Spencer to his estate in the barony of Fermoy, which had been given to soldiers despite his being a Protestant who never bore arms against the Commonwealth.

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against the Commonwealth of England. That his grandfather, Edmund Spenser, and his father, were both Protestants, from whom an estate of lands in the barony of Fermoy, in the county of Cork, descended on him, which, during the rebellion, yielded him little or nothing towards his relief. That the said estate hath been lately given out to the soldiers in satisfaction of their arrears, only upon the account of his professing the Popish religion, which, since his coming to years of discretion, he hath, as he professes, utterly renounced. That his grandfather was that Spenser, who, by his writings touching the reduction of the Irish to civility, brought on him the odium of that nation ; and for these works, and his other good services, Queen Elizabeth conferred on him the estate which the said William Spenser now claims. We have also been informed that the gentleman is of civil conversation, and that the extremity his wants have brought him to have not prevailed over him to put him. upon indirect or evil practices for a livelihood. And if, upon inquiry, you shall find his case to be such, we judge it just and reasonable, and do therefore desire and authorize you that he be forthwith restored to his estate, and that reprisal lands be given to the soldiers elsewhere ; in the doing whereof our satisfaction will be greater by the continuation of that estate to the issue of his grandfather, for whose eminent deserts and services to the Commonwealth that estate was first given him. " We rest your loving friend,
"OLIVER P."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 140

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Fermoy, in 1657, Oliver Cromwell signed a letter restoring an estate to William Spencer. The estate lay in the barony of Fermoy in the county of Cork, and it had come down to William from his grandfather, Edmund Spenser, and his father. Both were Protestants. Queen Elizabeth had first granted the land to the grandfather for what the letter calls his eminent deserts and services to the Commonwealth, and for his writings touching the reduction of the Irish to civility, which had brought on him the odium of that nation. During the rebellion, the estate had yielded William little or nothing. Then it was given out to soldiers, in satisfaction of their arrears, and the only reason given was that he professed the Popish religion. He said he had utterly renounced it since coming to years of discretion. The letter says the gentleman was of civil conversation, and that the extremity of his wants had not driven him to any indirect or evil practices for a living. Cromwell judged it just and reasonable that he be forthwith restored to his estate, and that reprisal lands be given to the soldiers elsewhere. The letter is signed, as Cromwell signed such things, OLIVER P.

Danish naval engagement at Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1174

In 1174, the Danes of Cork equipped thirty-five vessels to attack an English fleet but lost the battle when an Englishman named Philip Walsh killed their commander Gilbert.

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seem, still further to weaken the hands of the Irish party, turned against Eoderick, and as if this were not enough, Diarmaid Mac Carthy attacked the Danes of Limerick, and burned their fortress and market-house. This onslaught upon the Danes was bad policy. The English met a more manly opposition from the Danes than from the native Irish. We find the Danes of Cork, in 1174, equipping thirty-five vessels to attack an English fleet. It is true, they lost the battle, through the valor of an Englishman named Philip Walsh, who leaped on board the Admiral's ship, sword in hand, and killed Gilbert, who commanded the Danes, but the Danes fought bravely.
But the Irish hated the Danes (who had taken possession of all their best ports) with a most sincere hatred. They were old enemies. " A.D. 820.— The city of Cork, and the adjacent country, were ransacked by a Danish fleet. A.D. 833. — The city was devastated by the Danes. A.D. 837. — This county was miserably harrassed by the Danes. Among other devastations, Inis Dambly, [Cape Clear] and Cork were plundered and burned "

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 8

As the companion tells it

Cork has an old story of the sea. In 1174, the Danes here equipped thirty-five vessels to attack an English fleet. They lost the battle, but not without a fight. An Englishman named Philip Walsh leaped on board the Admiral's ship, sword in hand, and killed Gilbert, who commanded the Danes. The Danes fought bravely. The English met a more manly opposition from the Danes than from the native Irish. The Irish hated the Danes, who had taken possession of all their best ports. They were old enemies. Long before the battle, the Danes had ravaged this place. In 820, the city and the adjacent country were ransacked by a Danish fleet. In 833, the city was devastated by the Danes. In 837, the county was harassed by the Danes. Among other devastations, Inis Dambly, now Cape Clear, and the city were plundered and burned.

Desmond sacks Youghal

Youghal · town · Cork · 1579

The Earl of Desmond visited the town of Youghal, whose mayors had always acted as his friends, and sacked it in the most ruthless and savage way. The Geraldines seized upon all the riches and goods found in the town.

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When the Lord Justice, Sir William Pelham, came to the South, the Earl of Desmond refused to join him. He, with James, his brother, were, with sound of trumpet, proclaimed traitors, on the 1st of November, 1579. He was now a desperate man. He raised the standard of rebellion on the Ballyhowra mountains, in this county, from which he descended like a torrent, sweeping flocks and herds before him, not always discriminating between friends and foes. He took his first preys from the lands of the Lords Roche and Barry. He then visited the town of Youghal (the mayors of which had ever acted as his friends), and sacked it in the most ruthless and savage way.
" They encamped before Youghal, and finally took that town, which at that time was full of riches and goods. The Geraldines seized upon all the riches they

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 112

As the companion tells it

Youghal is a town the road passes through. In 1579 the Earl of Desmond came here and destroyed it. He had refused to join the Lord Justice, Sir William Pelhem, in the south. On the 1st of November 1579, he and his brother James were proclaimed traitors with sound of trumpet. He was a desperate man by then. He raised the standard of rebellion on the Ballyhowra mountains and came down like a torrent, sweeping flocks and herds before him, not always telling friend from foe. His first preys were taken from the lands of the Lords Roche and Barry. Then he visited Youghal. The mayors of Youghal had ever acted as his friends. He sacked the town in the most ruthless and savage way. The words of the time say, they encamped before Youghal, and finally took that town, which at that time was full of riches and goods. The Geraldines seized upon all the riches.

Desmond's grandfather beheaded at Drogheda

Drogheda · town · Louth · 1537

James Fitz-John, the Pretended Earl of Desmond, reminded the king that his grandfather had been beheaded at Drogheda while in royal service, and that his father had led the king's host in Ireland, especially in Munster. This was part of his appeal against the king's favouring of James Fitzmaurice, the Court-Page.

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The Pretended Earl must have got some inkling of these one-sided instructions ; some member of council, or confidential servant, perhaps Henry Hoke, grateful for his late ft good cher and gentel entertainment,'' let out the state secret. He writes informing the king that he had served him more faithfully than any of his predecessors, since his " grantfather who was heded [beheaded] at Drodagh," save only his father, who was " the leader and forman of the king's hoste in Ireland, especiall in Munster." He greatly marvels that his noble grace should not consider in his heart the extortions, treasons, and rebellions of the "bastarde called Jamys Fitz-Moryce," whom his grace favored, although his father and grandfather were always rebels against the crown, robbing cities and borough towns,

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 65

As the companion tells it

Coming up now is Drogheda, in Louth. In 1537 this town is where a story from the Cork histories turns. James Fitz-John, called the Pretended Earl of Desmond, wrote to the king claiming loyal service. He said he had served more faithfully than any of his predecessors, since his "grantfather who was heded at Drodagh" — beheaded here at Drogheda — save only his father, who was the leader and forman of the king's host in Ireland, especially in Munster. He got wind of secret instructions against him, perhaps through Henry Hoke, grateful for good cheer and gentle entertainment. He marvels that the king would not consider the extortions, treasons, and rebellions of the "bastarde called Jamys Fitz-Moryce," whom the king favored, though that man's father and grandfather were always rebels against the crown, robbing cities and borough towns.

Desmond's hosting and plunder around Cashel

Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1581

In September 1581 the Earl of Desmond made a hosting into the plains around Cashel, seizing great quantities of cattle, clothing, and property. He was pursued but turned on his pursuers, slaying four hundred men.

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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
2G2 HISTORY OF COEK.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 118

As the companion tells it

You're coming through Cashel now. In September 1581, the Earl of Desmond made a hosting into the plains around this town and into Cashel itself. His forces seized great quantities of property: copper, iron, clothing, apparel, and cattle great and small. They were pursued by a large force, but Desmond turned on his pursuers and slew four hundred men.

Earl demands return of Mocollop castle from prison

Lismore and Mocollop · parish · Cork · 1568

While imprisoned, the Earl of Desmond wrote letters requesting Donough M'Crahe to deliver up the manor and castle of Mocollop to his father John M'Crahe. The earl also sought money and counsel from allies in Cork and Limerick.

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addressed to one person, his wife, we conclude they were not all written the same day. He tells the countess to be advised by the Lord Deputy, Sir Warham St. Leger, and Andrew Skiddy, recorder of Cork. He writes Lord Koche on behalf of his man, David Leche, long kept in duress. He now felt what it was to be a prisoner. He requests Skiddy not to slack in his counsel and advice to the countess, and requires Donough M'Crahe to deliver up the manor and castle of Mocollop to his father, John M'Crahe. The same things are repeated over and over again, and in many of the letters he asks for money, and complains to his wife that the "chancellor of Limerick" has kept back his money, and tells Andrew Skidmour, gent., in the city of Cork, not to fail to declare how Sir Donoghowe Casseihe, the chancellor of Limerick, has acted.
The earl and his brother John were allowed to make their submission this year, 1568, and became bound in the sum of £20,000 each for the due performance of the articles of submission. But they still remained prisoners.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 96

As the companion tells it

The parish of Lismore and Mocollop crosses this stretch of road. In 1568 the Earl of Desmond was a prisoner, and from his cell he wrote letters to the people he trusted. He told his wife, the countess, to be guided by the Lord Deputy, Sir Warham St. Leger, and by Andrew Skiddy, the recorder of Cork. He wrote to Lord Koche on behalf of his man David Leche, who had been long kept in duress. He felt now what it was to be a prisoner. He asked Andrew Skiddy not to slack in his counsel to the countess. He required Donough M'Crahe to deliver up the manor and castle of Mocollop to his father, John M'Crahe. The same requests are repeated across the letters. He asked again and again for money. He complained to his wife that the chancellor of Limerick had kept back his money, and he told Andrew Skidmour, a gentleman in the city of Cork, not to fail to declare how Sir Donoghowe Casseihe, the chancellor of Limerick, had acted. That year the earl and his brother John were allowed to make their submission and became bound in 20,000 pounds each, but they still remained prisoners.

Earl of Kildare at Carrickfergus

near Carrickfergus · town · Antrim · 1523–1524

The Earl of Kildare wrote to Henry VIII regarding a Britton ship loaded with Gascon wine located at the town of Carrickfergus. He reported addressing himself to it, and upon returning, found the Deputy's retinue had taken five hundred mares and colts.

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The Earl of Kildare, writing to Henry VIII,, says : "Having heard there was a Britton ship laden with Gascon wine, at your town of Craguergcrise, [Carrigfergus] I addressed myself unto it." On his return he discovered that the " said Deputie's retynue " had carried off five hundred mares and colts. " Since it was bruted here that your grace minded to amove [remove] him from the deputacion, [deputyship] he hath been nothing in effect ruled by your Council, but hath made bonds with divers of the Irishry." The earl's wife, Elysabeth Kyldare, writes to Wolsey on the same subject : —
"In my most humble manner I commend me to your grace, beseeching you to be a good and gracious lord to my lord and husband, for as yet my lord and husband has not had any great profit by me, yet I find him as good and kind unto me always as eny man may be to hys wyf. Humbly thanking your grace to remember me to my moder,t [mother] as tucheng my maryag mom." [marriage money.] She then goes on to say she is in continual fear of the king's Deputy. " It is commonly noised, that if the said Deputy might have my said lord at any advantage, he would utterly

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 55

As the companion tells it

The town of Carrickfergus appears in a letter the Earl of Kildare wrote to Henry the Eighth in 1523 or 1524. He told the king he had heard there was a Britton ship laden with Gascon wine at Carrickfergus, and he addressed himself unto it. When he returned, he found that the Deputy's retinue had carried off 500 mares and colts. He told the king that since word went about that his grace meant to remove the Deputy from his office, the Deputy had in effect been ruled by nothing the Council said, and had made bonds with divers of the Irishry. The Earl's wife, Elysabeth Kyldare, wrote to Wolsey on the same matter. In her own words, she commended herself to his grace and besought him to be a good and gracious lord to her lord and husband. She said that as yet he had not had any great profit by her, yet she found him as good and kind as any man might be to his wife. She asked Wolsey to remember her to her mother as touching her marriage money. She said she was in continual fear of the king's Deputy, for it was commonly noised that if the Deputy might have her lord at any advantage, he would utterly bring him down.

Execution of Mac Egan's chaplain in Cork

Cork · city · Cork

A Catholic priest, taken during the skirmish and identified as a chaplain to Owen Mac Egan, was brought to Cork where the president shortly after caused him to be executed.

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" There were slaine in this service (besides Owen Mac Egan, who was of more worth then all the rest) above one hundred and twenty rebels, and of the provinciall rising out of our part a good number lost their lives, and many of Captain Taaffe's horses hurt. Wee got the armes of a hundred and fourtie, and all their horses, cowes, sheepe and garranes that were in the countrey neere adjoyning. There was also taken a Papist Priest, being as it seemed a Chaplaine to Mac Egan, whom the president (shortly after) caused to be executed in Corke."
This most inexorable president, upon his return to Cork, employed messengers to seize Mac Egan's papers, which Stafford says, "fell to my share." They consisted for the most part, of books of school divinity and a bull of Pope Clement YIIL, " DaV Romce, apud Sanctum Petrum anno Incarnationis Domini 1595." Mac Egan must have been invested with the authority described in the bull for seven years before his death.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 190

As the companion tells it

Cork was where a priest met his end. After a fight in which Owen Mac Egan was killed, along with above 120 rebels, a Catholic priest was taken. He seemed to be Mac Egan's chaplain. The president had him brought here and shortly after caused him to be executed. The president was called inexorable, and on his return to Cork he sent messengers to seize Mac Egan's papers. Those papers fell to Stafford. They were mostly books of school divinity and a bull of Pope Clement the 8th, dated 1595. Mac Egan must have held the authority described in that bull for 7 years before his death. The fight cost the provincial rising men a good number of lives too, and many of Captain Taaffe's horses were hurt. The victors took the arms of 140, and all the horses, cows, sheep and garrans that were in the country near adjoining.

Execution of Spaniards at the fort of Smerwick

Smerwick · townland · Kerry

Discussion of the killing of Spaniards at the fort of Smerwick during Sir William Pelham's campaign. Some reported that Pelham had promised the Spaniards their lives, or at least given them hope of survival, making the subsequent execution a stain on his honor.

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" EUDOX. — But in that sharp execution of the Spaniards at the fort of Smerwick, I heard it specially noted, and if it were true, as some reported, surely it was a great touch to him in honor, for some say that he promised them life, others, at least he did put them in hope thereof.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 114

As the companion tells it

Close to Smerwick, Spaniards were put to death at the fort. This was during Sir William Pelham's campaign. Some reported that Pelham promised them their lives. Others said he at least put them in hope of surviving. If true, as one writer noted, surely it was a great touch to him in honor.

Failed bribery of Dunboy constable on Bere Island

near Bear Island · island or archipelago · Cork · 1602

Richard Mac Geoghegan, the constable of Dunboy Castle, met privately with Thomond on Bere Island, where Thomond attempted to persuade him to betray his trust. Mac Geoghegan refused and warned Thomond against landing on the mainland near the castle.

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The letter to the Spanish cannoniers produced no effect, but the Lord President, nothing discouraged, will try again. On the first of June, the Earl of Ormond and Sir Charles Wilmot are instructed to land with their regiments on Beare Island ; the president and Sir Eichard Percy follow on the second. Here occurs a private meeting between Kichard Mac Geoghegan, the constable of Dunboy, and Thomond, who tries to tempt him to betray his trust. In the map of the siege of Dunboy, we have a sketch of the two figures. The incorruptible Mac Geoghegan appears1 to be moving off with a flag of truce, and — the back of my hand to you, Thomond — while Thomond follows in a somewhat threatening attitude. " Whether Mac Geoghegan did intreat the earle that he might have a safe-conduct to speake with him, I am uncertaine,

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 179

As the companion tells it

Near this road lies Bear Island, in Cork. In 1602, the Earl of Ormond and Sir Charles Wilmot were instructed to land with their regiments on the island on the first of June, and the Lord President and Sir Richard Percy followed on the second. On the island, Richard Mac Geoghegan, constable of Dunboy Castle, met privately with Thomond, who tried to tempt him to betray his trust. Mac Geoghegan refused. A map of the siege of Dunboy shows the two figures. The incorruptible Mac Geoghegan appears moving off with a flag of truce, "the back of my hand to you, Thomond," while Thomond follows in a threatening attitude. Whether Mac Geoghegan asked for a safe conduct to speak with the earl, the author remains uncertain.

Gerald the poet Earl captured near monastery of Maio

near Maio · sub-townland · Meath · 1370

Gerald, the poet Earl of Desmond and former Lord Deputy of Ireland, was taken prisoner on 6 July 1370 near the monastery of Maio in the county of Limerick. His captors were O'Brien and Macnamara of Thomond. He was renowned as an Irish scholar, poet, and chronicler.

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John was succeeded by his brother Gerald, or Garrett, the poet, who became Lord Deputy of Ireland in 1368, a dignity which he enjoyed but one year, giving place to Sir William de Windsor. The poet was taken prisoner, with other noble persons, on the 6th of July, 1370, near the monastery of Maio, in the county of Limerick. His captors were O'Brien and Macnamara, of Thomond. He is described as a man of gaiety and affability, an Irish scholar and poet, and the most distinguished of the English in Ireland. ** The Lord Garrett, earle of Desmond, a nobleman of wonderful bountie, cheerfulness in conversation, charitable in his deeds, easy of access, a witty and ingenious composer of Irish poetry, and a learned and profound chronicler ; in fine, one of the English nobility that had Irish learning, and professors thereof, in greatest reverence." — Annals of Clonmacnoue.
These Geraldines were becoming, at this early period, as Irish as the Irish themselves — Irish in the highest and best sense of the term, in their love and appreciation of Irish literature and literary men. Irish chieftains, from a very early period, practised

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 23

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Maio, on the 6th of July 1370, Gerald, the poet Earl of Desmond, was taken prisoner near the monastery. Gerald had become Lord Deputy of Ireland in 1368, but held that office only one year before giving place to Sir William de Windsor. His captors were O'Brien and Macnamara of Thomond, and other noble persons were taken with him. He is described as a man of gaiety and affability, an Irish scholar and poet, and the most distinguished of the English in Ireland. The Annals of Clonmacnoise call him a nobleman of wonderful bounty, cheerfulness in conversation, charitable in his deeds, easy of access, a witty and ingenious composer of Irish poetry, and a learned and profound chronicler. These Geraldines were becoming, at this early period, as Irish as the Irish themselves, in their love and appreciation of Irish literature and literary men.

Hugh Tirrel's theft from priests of Armagh and divine retribution

near Armagh · town · Armagh

Hugh Tirrel, a man of ill report accompanying Philip of Worcester, Lord Justice of Ireland, stole a brewing pan from the priests of Armagh. As divine punishment, the house where he lay was burned along with horses in the stable, and Philip of Worcester fell ill, forcing him to abandon the pan.

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* The extent to winch the belief of God's retributive judgment (especially in the case of an injury or an injustice done churchmen or their property) prevailed, is illustrated by a story told by Sir Richard Cox. Philip of Worcester, Lord Justice or Governor of Ireland, came over, accompanied by one II ugh Tirrcl, a man of ill report. Tirrel stole a brewing pan from the priests of Armagh. Whut was the consequence ? The house where he lay was burued, alone: with the horses in the stable, and Philip of Worcestor had a severe Jit of the //>•')«'¥, " so he ^ ;i< fain to leave the pan, for want of the carriage," /. e. the means of carrying it away.
56 HISTORY OF COEK.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 26

As the companion tells it

Armagh is a town the road passes through. In an old story told by Sir Richard Cox, a man named Hugh Tirrel came to Ireland with Philip of Worcester, the Lord Justice. Tirrel was a man of ill report. He stole a brewing pan from the priests of Armagh. The consequence was that the house where he lay was burned, along with the horses in the stable. Philip of Worcester fell ill, "so he was fain to leave the pan, for want of the carriage" — the means of carrying it away. Cox told the story to show how people believed in God's retributive judgment, especially when churchmen or their property were wronged.

Irish lords attend parliament but refuse seats

Duhallow · barony · Cork · 1585

O'Sullivan Beare, O'Sullivan More, O'Mahony the Western, and O'Driscoll More repaired to parliament concerning the lordship of Duhallow, but none took their seats as members except MacCarthy More, Earl of Clancare. County Cork was represented by Sir John Norris, William Cogan, and John Fitz-Edmond Fitzgerald, the last of whom opposed the confiscation act.

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None of the Minister lords who are here stated to have repaired to this parliament took their seats, as members, with the exception of Mac Carthy More, Earl of Clancare. The county Cork was represented by Sir John Norris, (lord president of Minister), Wm. Cogan, or De Cogan, and John Fitz-Edmond Fitzgerald.
An act was passed that " all conveyances made, or pretended to be made, by any person attainted of treason, within thirteen years before the act, shall be on record in the exchequer within a year, or be void."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 123

As the companion tells it

In 1585, the barony of Duhallow drew Irish lords to parliament. O'Sullivan Beare, O'Sullivan More, O'Mahony the Western, and O'Driscoll More came concerning its lordship, but none took their seats. Only MacCarthy More, Earl of Clancare, sat as a member. County Cork was represented by Sir John Norris, William Cogan, and John Fitz-Edmond Fitzgerald, who opposed the confiscation act. That act made conveyances by anyone attainted of treason within thirteen years void unless recorded in the exchequer within a year.

James of Desmond received at Youghal

Youghal · town · Cork · 1538–1540

James Fitz-John, claiming the earldom of Desmond, rode to Youghal where he was warmly received. From there he entered all the forts and garrisons in County Cork that had been held by the Deputy and Ormond.

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This Maurice, as we shall see, was murdered afterwards himself. James of Desmond now feels that the inheritance is his. He posts to Youghal, where he was " wele received and interteyned." After this the whole country lay open before him. " He entered into all the pills and garrisons in the county of Cork," which the Deputy and Ormond had wrested from his grasp. Around his standard gathered my Lords Eoche, Barry, the White Knight, Mac Carthy Reagh, and a host of Irish chieftains and captains, who had lately given pledges of obedience to the Deputy. The Deputy is thunderstruck, the Council are trembling in their brogues. The new earl will be up upon them. They must parley and meet him with " dulcie wordes." Ormond resolves to beard the lion in his den. u May it please your good lordship, I have practised to win James of Desmond to serve the king's highness at this point of extremytie. Perceiving he would not trust me, nor yet be allured to any good purpose, I resolved to jeopardy myself in his hands, to win him with familiaritie and persuasion." He therefore passed two nights with him in the heart of his own country.
"We suspect that Ormond had some private motive for this visit — that it was on this occasion the marriage between the families was broached. We have a short, friendly, and very badly written letter from Desmond to Ormond, who is starting for London : — u I desyre

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 74

As the companion tells it

The town of Youghal saw James of Desmond arrive around 1538. He believed the inheritance was his after Maurice had been murdered. At Youghal he was, in the words of the record, "wele received and interteyned." After that the whole country lay open before him. He entered into all the forts and garrisons in County Cork which the Deputy and Ormond had wrested from his grasp. Around his standard gathered Lord Roche, Barry, the White Knight, Mac Carthy Reagh, and a host of Irish chieftains and captains who had lately given pledges of obedience to the Deputy. The Deputy was thunderstruck. The Council were trembling. They had to parley and meet him with, as the record puts it, "dulcie wordes." Ormond resolved to beard the lion in his den. He said he had tried to win James of Desmond to serve the king's highness, but perceiving James would not trust him, he resolved to jeopardy himself in his hands, to win him with familiarity and persuasion. He spent two nights with James in the heart of his own country. The author suspects a marriage between the families was broached on that visit. There is a short, friendly letter from Desmond to Ormond, who was starting for London. James wrote, "I desyre" — and there the passage ends.

Lord Barry kills eighty near Cork

Cork · city · Cork

Certain wild Irish came one night to make a prey near Cork but were met by Lord Barry, who was himself on a similar errand against other Irish. Lord Barry killed eighty of them.

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c< murdrede by twenty -three foynes of an Irish knyffe, given him in the very hart." William Davis, an English gentleman of rank, was cruelly murdered in the city this year, of which the mayor does not inform the Deputy, but goes on to say, that O'Sullivan Beare* had accepted a "large ransom" for the liberation of John Tomson and other pirates. They promise that no soldiers or other persons shall leave the realm without special license and passport, and that they will make a strong fortress for the defence of the town. They complain that their harbour, and their whole line of coast, is haunted and harassed by English adventurers. They mention the arrival of a "big ship " at Kinsale, from St. Malo, en route to Galway, with wine and hides, and desire to know the king's pleasure concerning pirates — whether they should apprehend or kill them? They inform the Deputy, that "a great ship of Venice, of seven hundred tons burthen," together with other vessels, laden with Malmsey and Spanish wool, have been driven into Cork harbour by stress of weather. The Malmsey has been seized and sent as a present to the king, which was likely to settle the question of their right of seizure. The letter goes on to state, that certain wild Irish, coming one night to make a prey near Cork, were met by the Lord Barry, who was going to do the like on certain other wild Irish, and that the Lord Barry killed eighty of them. It would appear from a letter, written from Carrigaline, the 2nd of December, 1548, that Maurice of Desmond, the earl's brother, had not the same scruples
* Dermot O'Sullivan Scare was blown up in his own castle, by accident, with gunpowder, this year, and his brother Amlavus, who succeeded him, was killed soon after.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 81

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, you are moving through ground where a short, sharp story played out, one that survives in a letter the mayor of this city sent to the Deputy. The letter covers many things. An English gentleman named William Davis was cruelly murdered in the city that year. The mayor says nothing about that killing to the Deputy. Instead he writes that O'Sullivan Beare had accepted a large ransom for the liberation of John Tomson and other pirates. He asks the king's pleasure concerning pirates, whether they should apprehend or kill them. He mentions a big ship arrived at Kinsale from St. Malo, on its way to Galway, carrying wine and hides. He tells of a great ship of Venice, seven hundred tons burthen, driven into Cork harbour by stress of weather, along with other vessels laden with Malmsey and Spanish wool. The Malmsey was seized and sent as a present to the king. Then the letter comes to the matter of Lord Barry. Certain wild Irish came one night to make a prey near Cork. They were met by the Lord Barry, who was going to do the like on certain other wild Irish. The Lord Barry killed eighty of them.

MacCarthy marches on Cork, 1182

Cork · city · Cork · 1182

In 1182, MacCarthy renounced his allegiance to the English government and marched upon Cork, filling Fitzstephen with consternation. Raymond Le Gros marched from Waterford to relieve the city and forced MacCarthy to raise the siege.

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Two years after this, 1182, we find Mac Carthy renouncing his allegiance to the English government, and marching upon Cork, which fills Fitzstephen with consternation and despair. Eaymond Le Gros, who is in Waterford. marches to his relief, and obliges Mac Carthy to raise the seige.
Milo de Cogan and young Fitzstephen were slain in 1185, at Lismore, to which they were invited, bygone Mac Tirid, "who stealing suddenly and unawares upon them, treacherously murdered them, and five of their servants. This left Fitzstephen without a son. Whether or not these murders had been previously arranged by Mac Carthy, we cannot say, but he at once took advantage of them to attack Fitzstephen, who was shut up in Cork. The Norman knight once more applied to his trusty friend, Eaymond, who was at Wexford. He

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 12

As the companion tells it

Cork, in 1182. MacCarthy renounced his allegiance to the English government and marched upon the city. Fitzstephen, held up inside, was filled with consternation and despair. Raymond Le Gros, in Waterford, marched to relieve Cork and forced MacCarthy to raise the siege. Three years later, in 1185, Milo de Cogan and young Fitzstephen were slain at Lismore. They had been invited there, and Mac Tirid stole suddenly upon them, treacherously murdering them and five of their servants. This left Fitzstephen without a son. Whether these murders had been arranged by MacCarthy, the record cannot say, but he took advantage at once to attack Fitzstephen, who was shut up in Cork. The Norman knight once more applied to his friend Raymond, who was at Wexford.

Maurice Duv "the Freebooter" slain at Carrigaline Castle

Carrigaline · town · Cork

Maurice Duv, or Maurice Tothaire, called "the Freebooter," resided at Carrigaline castle. His own guard fell on him and slew him. The Four Masters described him as "the high-tempered steel of the Geraldines, the plunderer of his enemies, the slayer of his opponents."

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guard him fell on him and slew him. Thus died Maurice Duv, or Maurice Tothaire, "the Freebooter." He resided at Carrigaline castle, in this county. The Four Masters style him "The high-tempered steel of the Geraldines, the plunderer of his enemies, the slayer of his opponents." They place his death in their annals two years later than it is recorded in the State Papers.
The queen, who held the Earl of Desmond responsible not only for his own conduct but that of his house, demanded his presence in England. Fitzwilliam writes him about Ormond's five hundred pounds, and hints that his delay in answering the queen's lettre de cachet, must seem strange. He asks if he shall meet him at Waterford. The earl screws up his courage, and promises to go ; so the Chief Justice prepares a proclamation for the safety of Desmond during bis absence, and the mayor, bailiffs, and council of Youghal write, commending him to the queen, telling of the protection he has given them, and how he drove out a den of thieves from a castle four miles up the river* — when who should cross his path, and decide his doom, but a messenger from the famous Shane O'Neill, who is in rebellion, and desires the aid of an Irish chieftain to put the South in the same commotion as he has put the North. The earl hesitates. A new idea has struck him, so he begins to build a castle in Lord Eoche's country. Fitzwilliam writes to Cecil of

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 90

As the companion tells it

Carrigaline is a town the road passes through in County Cork. Maurice Duv, also called Maurice Tothaire, known as the Freebooter, resided at Carrigaline castle. His own guard fell on him and slew him. The Four Masters styled him the high-tempered steel of the Geraldines, the plunderer of his enemies, the slayer of his opponents. They placed his death in their annals two years later than it is recorded in the State Papers. The queen, who held the Earl of Desmond responsible not only for his own conduct but that of his house, demanded his presence in England. Fitzwilliam wrote to him, hinting that his delay in answering the queen's lettre de cachet must seem strange, and asked if he should meet him at Waterford. The earl promised to go. The Chief Justice prepared a proclamation for Desmond's safety during his absence. The mayor, bailiffs, and council of Youghal wrote commending him to the queen, telling of the protection he had given them, and how he drove out a den of thieves from a castle four miles up the river. Then a messenger from Shane O'Neill, who was in rebellion, crossed his path and decided his doom, seeking the aid of an Irish chieftain to put the South in the same commotion as he had put the North. The earl hesitated, and began to build a castle in Lord Eoche's country.

Murder of James, Earl of Desmond at Rathkeale

Rathkeale · town · Limerick · 1487

In 1487 James, Earl of Desmond, was treacherously slain by his own people at Rathkeale, at the instigation of his brother John. The murderers were subsequently banished by Maurice, the earl's son.

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In 1487, James, the Earl of Desmond, was treacherously slain by his own people, at Eathkeale, at the instigation of John, his brother. The murderers were banished by Maurice, the earl's son.
Next comes the murder of Mac Carthy Laider himself : —

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 40

As the companion tells it

Rathkeale is the town where, in 1487, James, Earl of Desmond, was treacherously slain by his own people. The killing was done at the instigation of John, his brother. Afterward the murderers were banished by Maurice, the earl's son.

Parliamentary Earl Received at Mallow

Mallow · town · Cork · 1600

After landing at Youghal, James Fitzgerald proceeded to Mallow where the lord president waited to receive him and control his movements. Queen Elizabeth's letter to the president authorized him to abridge the earl's liberty at his discretion. The earl remained at Mallow long enough to learn his lesson from the president before being sent on to Kilmallock.

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He arrived at Youghal on the fourteenth of October, where we find, from the chronicles of the day, "He had like to have been overthrown with the kisses of the old calleaks," or hags. From Youghal he proceeded directly to Mallow, where the president waited to receive him, for to him was committed the power of regulating all his movements, or, if need-be, of curtailing his liberty. In a letter from her majesty, Elizabeth K., to the lord president, signed by " Ro. Cecil," we read these words : — " Know this from us, that we shall never disallow it, if you, in your discretion, find it necessarie at any time that you doe abridge him of any libertie or any favour now afforded him."
After remaining long enough in Mallow to learn his lesson from the president, he was forwarded, under the charge of the Archbishop of Cashel, to Kilmallock. Nothing could surpass the hearty welcome which the Irish — the tenants and followers of the old earl — gave the young man as he entered this fine old town. The windows and tops of the houses were crowded with spectators, .who showered down corn and salt upon his head as a token of welcome and prosperity.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 150

As the companion tells it

The road takes you through or near Mallow, a town in Cork. In the year 1600, James Fitzgerald landed at Youghal on the fourteenth of October. The chronicles say he had like to have been overthrown with the kisses of the old calleaks, or hags. From Youghal he came directly to Mallow, where the lord president waited to receive him. To the president was committed the power of regulating all his movements, or, if need be, of curtailing his liberty. A letter from Queen Elizabeth, signed by Ro. Cecil, told the president, Know this from us, that we shall never disallow it, if you, in your discretion, find it necessary at any time that you do abridge him of any liberty or any favour now afforded him. After remaining long enough in Mallow to learn his lesson from the president, he was forwarded under the charge of the Archbishop of Cashel to Kilmallock. There the tenants and followers of the old earl gave the young man a hearty welcome. The windows and tops of the houses were crowded with spectators, who showered down corn and salt upon his head as a token of welcome and prosperity.

Sir Henry Sydney's vice-regal assembly in Cork

Cork · city · Cork

Sir Henry Sydney held a grand vice-regal assembly or 'coshering' in Cork over Christmas, attended by various Irish lords and their wives. During this event, Florence Mac Carthy of Carbery and Lady Ellen, daughter of Mac Carthy More, first met, a union that later impacted Munster's affairs.

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" And the better to furnish the beauty and filling of the city, all these principal lords had with them their wives, during all the Christmas, who truly kept very honorable, at least very plentiful houses. And to be brief, many widow ladies were there also, who each had been wives to earls and others of good note and account."
Two young people met at this grand vice-regal assembly, or coshering, whose romantic wooing affected

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala

As the companion tells it

Coming through Cork. Over Christmas in this city, Sir Henry Sydney held a vice-regal assembly, a coshering. The principal Irish lords brought their wives and kept very honourable, at least very plentiful houses. Many widow ladies were there too, each having been wife to an earl or others of good note. Here two young people met: Florence Mac Carthy of Carbery and Lady Ellen, daughter of Mac Carthy More, whose wooing would affect Munster's affairs.

St. Leger visits Cork, Kinsale, and Youghal

Cork · city · Cork · 1542

During the Earl of Desmond's absence in England in autumn 1542, Lord Deputy St. Leger visited 'Desmond's country' and the towns of Cork, Kinsale, and Youghal. Their prosperity had long been hindered by the hostile behaviour of the MacCarthy chieftains of Carbery and Muskerry.

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We suspect it was during the earl's absence f in England that St. Leger visited " Desmond's country," and the towns of Cork, Kinsale, and Youghal, the prosperity of which had been retarded, or "long hyndered by the evil behavor of two greate captaynes in these quarters," namely, the Mac Carthys of Carbery and Muskerry.
A formal treaty was made this year with both the English and Irish lords of Munster. The document not only gives Henry his new title of Fidei Defensoris,

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 76

As the companion tells it

In autumn 1542, while the Earl of Desmond was away in England, Lord Deputy St. Leger visited Desmond's country, including Cork, Kinsale, and Youghal. These towns had been, in the source's words,

Cork merchants petition for Desmond's release

Cork · city · Cork · 1571

The mayor and civic leaders of Cork petitioned Queen Elizabeth to release the Earl of Desmond and his brother from custody. The petition reflects the town's reliance on the Desmond interest and concern over the state of Munster.

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We conclude that St. Leger was their jailor, and that he did not like his office, for he asks permission to go to Ireland to recover his losses. Writing to the privy council two months after this, he complains that the Earl of Desmond refuses to go down to Leeds castle, in Kent, with him, and that, in his absence, he has rashly ranged abroad in sundry parts of London. The poor fellow was happy to shake a loose leg, without the presence of a keeper, though it was a lame one. St. Leger requests either to be relieved of the charge, or to have command to keep him prisoner, without liberty. This sounds harsh from St. Leger. " Maurice Koche, mayor, and his brethren of Cork," petition the queen, for the Earl of Desmond and his brother to be enlarged. " Michael Roche, soveraigne, and his brethren of Kinsale," memorial the privy council to send over the Earl of Desmond, and Sir John, to assist the president in repressing the rebels, who seek to destroy their
15

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 97

As the companion tells it

As the road takes you through Cork, this is a city that in 1571 went to the queen on behalf of a prisoner. The Earl of Desmond was held in England. His jailor was St. Leger, who did not like the office and asked permission to go to Ireland to recover his losses. Writing to the privy council two months later, St. Leger complained that Desmond refused to go down to Leeds Castle in Kent with him, and that in his absence he had rashly ranged abroad in sundry parts of London. St. Leger asked either to be relieved of the charge or to have command to keep him prisoner without liberty. Then Maurice Roche, mayor, and his brethren of Cork petitioned the queen for the Earl of Desmond and his brother to be, in their word, "enlarged." Michael Roche, sovereign, and his brethren of Kinsale memorialized the privy council to send over the Earl of Desmond and Sir John to assist the president in repressing the rebels.

Kilbrittain Castle stormed by Earl of Desmond

near Kilbrittain · street · Cork · 1430

In 1430 the Earl of Desmond wrested the castle of Gill-Britain (Kilbrittain) from MacCarthy Reagh and gave it to his brother Donough, who joined in storming it. The ruins of this old Irish fortalice still stood in the author's time, beside the modern residence of Colonel Alcock Stawell.

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"A great war broke out'7 in 1430, between Mac Carthy Eeagh, and James, the Earl of Desmond, called the Usurper. The castle of Gill-Britain* was taken by the earl from Mac Carthy Eeagh, and given to his brother Donough, who united with Desmond in storming it. The ruins of this old Irish fortalice are still in existence. Beside them stands the modern residence of Colonel Alcock Stawell.
Two years after this, in 1432, we have the arrival of Sir Thomas Stanley, as new Lord Deputy. He was the son of Sir John Stanley, who died of the lampoon.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 33

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Kilbrittain, a great war broke out in 1430 between MacCarthy Reagh and James, the Earl of Desmond, called the Usurper. The castle of Gill-Britain was taken by the earl from MacCarthy Reagh and given to his brother Donough, who had united with Desmond in storming it. The ruins of this old Irish fortalice were still standing in the author's own time, with the modern residence of Colonel Alcock Stawell built beside them.

Kinsale seeks Desmond's return against rebels

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1571

The sovereign and brethren of Kinsale memorialised the privy council to send the Earl of Desmond and Sir John to assist the president of Munster in repressing rebels threatening their town. The memorialists invoked the recent destruction of Kilmallock as a warning.

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We conclude that St. Leger was their jailor, and that he did not like his office, for he asks permission to go to Ireland to recover his losses. Writing to the privy council two months after this, he complains that the Earl of Desmond refuses to go down to Leeds castle, in Kent, with him, and that, in his absence, he has rashly ranged abroad in sundry parts of London. The poor fellow was happy to shake a loose leg, without the presence of a keeper, though it was a lame one. St. Leger requests either to be relieved of the charge, or to have command to keep him prisoner, without liberty. This sounds harsh from St. Leger. " Maurice Koche, mayor, and his brethren of Cork," petition the queen, for the Earl of Desmond and his brother to be enlarged. " Michael Roche, soveraigne, and his brethren of Kinsale," memorial the privy council to send over the Earl of Desmond, and Sir John, to assist the president in repressing the rebels, who seek to destroy their
15

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 97

As the companion tells it

Coming through Kinsale in Cork, you're passing a town that in 1571 was under threat. Michael Roche, the sovereign, and his brethren memorialised the privy council to send over the Earl of Desmond and Sir John to assist the president of Munster in repressing the rebels who sought to destroy their town. They invoked the recent destruction of Kilmallock as a warning. The Earl of Desmond had been under the charge of St. Leger, who complained that Desmond refused to go down to Leeds Castle in Kent with him, and that in his absence he had rashly ranged abroad in sundry parts of London. St. Leger asked either to be relieved of the charge or to have command to keep him prisoner without liberty. Meanwhile, Maurice Roche, mayor of Cork, and his brethren petitioned the queen for the Earl of Desmond and his brother to be enlarged. But it was this town that asked for Desmond to be sent back to repress the rebels.

Maurice of Desmond slain in Muskerry

near Muskerry · street · Cork

Maurice of Desmond was slain some time after when caught preying on the estates of his son-in-law of Muskerry. He was the father of James, who later brought the Italians to Smerwick.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Muskerry, in Cork, a man named Maurice of Desmond met his end. His brother the earl had settled the whole barony of Kerricurrihy on him, along with the castle of Carrigaline. But that was not all Maurice had done for his advancement. He had a hand in murdering the Court-Page, which opened his brother's way to the earldom. The author of the history calls this a lie Maurice penned from inside Carrigaline castle, claiming he was never promoted by his brother. The truth was the opposite. Maurice richly deserved promotion, the author says, but at the hands of the hangman. He was slain some time after all this, caught preying on the estates of his son-in-law of Muskerry. Maurice was the father of James, who later brought the Italians to Smerwick.

Rory O'Conor endows strolling scholars at Armagh, 1169

near Armagh · town · Armagh · 1169

In 1169, Rory O'Conor, King of Ireland, granted ten cows yearly in honor of Patrick for learning to the strolling scholars of Ireland and England. The Annals of Ireland say this endowment was to the Rector of Ard-Macha, or Armagh, where these scholars may have received lectures.

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"In the same year [1169] Rory 0 'Conor, King of Ireland, granted ten cowes yearly, from him and every king after him, in honor of Patrick, for learning to the strollers of Ireland and England."
The Annals of Ireland say this endowment was to the Rector of Ard-Macha, or Armagh, where these strolling scholars may have received lectures, for there was 'nothing low about a wandering life in these days. The following is the extract of a letter from Gerald Byrne to Sir John Perrott, dated 18th April, 1590, in which we find the harper riding his hackney : —

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 36

As the companion tells it

Armagh was already a place of learning in 1169. That year, Rory O'Conor, King of Ireland, granted ten cows yearly, from him and every king after him, in honor of Patrick, for learning to the strollers of Ireland and England. The Annals of Ireland say this endowment was to the Rector of Ard-Macha, or Armagh, where these strolling scholars may have received lectures. As the source puts it, there was nothing low about a wandering life in those days.

Standoff at the Blackwater against James Fitz-John of Desmond

near River Blackwater · river · Cork · 1539–1540

The Deputy and Ormond, intending to cross the river Awnmore (Blackwater) into O'Callaghan's country, found James Fitz-John of Desmond standing in full panoply of war on the opposite bank. His threatening deportment so moved the Deputy that he returned to Cork.

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At Kinsale, the Deputy and Ormond parted for a while. " My Lord Deputy resting at Kinsale but one night, returned to Cork, leaving me for the coming of Mac Carthy Eeagh, in whose country I found much cattle, which I restored to him ; by reason whereof, and other fair means, I so allured and persuaded him, that he came with me to the Lord Deputie, and put in his brother and his hostages." Leaving Cork, the Deputy and Ormond repaired to O'Callaghan's country, intending to cross the river Awnmore, or Blackwater, when lo ! and behold, upon the other side, stands, in all the panoply of war, the wily and enraged James Fitz-John of Desmond, driven like a lion to its last cover. He had " no manor of towardnes, or any good conformytie." His deportmentwas threatening, so much
154 HISTORY OF COEff.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 73

As the companion tells it

The River Blackwater runs through Cork. In 1539 or 1540, the Deputy and Ormond parted at Kinsale. The Deputy rested there one night, then returned to Cork. Ormond stayed for MacCarthy Reagh, found much cattle in his country and restored it to him, and by fair means persuaded him to come to the Deputy, putting in his brother and his hostages. Then the Deputy and Ormond left Cork for O'Callaghan's country, meaning to cross the river. On the far bank stood James Fitz-John of Desmond in all the panoply of war. He had, as the record says, "no manor of towardnes, or any good conformytie." His deportment was so threatening that the Deputy returned to Cork.

Battle of Callan: defeat of the Geraldines

Callan · street · Tipperary · 1261

In 1261, the Clan Geraldine marched into Desmond to attack Fineen Mac Carthy, but Mac Carthy attacked and defeated them, slaying John Fitz-Thomas (John of Callan), Barry More, eight barons, and five knights. The battle was fought at Callainn Gleanna O'Ruachtain in the parish of Kilgarvan, five miles east of Kenmare in Kerry.

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"A.D. 1261. — A great army was marched by the Clan Gerald into Desmond, to attack Fineen Mac Carthy.* Mac Carthy attacked and defeated them, and in this contest were slain eight barons and five knights, besides others of the English nobles ; as also John
* Fineen Mac Carthy. — This -was Fineen Reaim Roin, who was slain this same year by De Courcy and DC Cogan, in the castle of llingrone, near Kiusale.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 21

As the companion tells it

This is the Battle of Callan, the defeat of the Geraldines in 1261. The Clan Geraldine marched a great army into Desmond to attack Fineen Mac Carthy. Mac Carthy attacked and defeated them. Eight barons and five knights were slain, besides other English nobles, and John Fitz-Thomas, called John of Callan, and Barry More.

Brehon O'Breslin's roll at the Fermanagh assizes

near Fermanagh · county · Fermanagh

At the assizes of Fermanagh, the judges and Chancellor struggled to discover how Maguire held his lands. The brehon O'Breslin was summoned; though feeble, he produced from his bosom a well-written roll detailing Maguire's tribute of cattle, cows, hogs, meal, and butter, which Sir John Davies copied but later lost in Dublin.

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Sir John Davies, the Irish Attorney-general to James L, who should know all about the administration of the law, informs us, that during Sir John Perrott's presidency of Munster, the English law was not in operation, and that " the people were left to be ruled by their own barbarous lords and laws."t Had the Attorney-general been better acquainted with the Irish brehon laws, he would not have styled them barbarous. Sir John Davies himself was on one occasion beholden to a brehon for important information. It was at the assizes of Fermanagh, where the judges and Chancellor were sitting. The difficulty was to discover the tenure
* Eriot, a meeting or council, at which (he brehons administered their laws.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 27

As the companion tells it

In Fermanagh, the assizes brought the judges and the Chancellor to one question: how did Maguire hold his lands. Sir John Davies, Attorney-general to James I, was there. They summoned the brehon O'Breslin. He was feeble, but from his bosom he produced a well-written roll detailing Maguire's tribute of cattle, cows, hogs, meal, and butter. Davies copied the roll. He lost the copy in Dublin. Davies had called the brehon laws barbarous, yet here he was beholden to a brehon for the very information he needed.

Captain Ap. Parry's visit to Youghal, 1535

Youghal · town · Cork · 1535

Captain Ap. Parry, serving Lord Leonard Gray, stopped at Youghal on the way from Dungarvan in 1535 and reported honest reception and good cheer. He noted that Gascony wine was sold there at fourpence per gallon.

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* Youghal. — A certain captain Ap. Parry, who visited Youghal this year [1535] says, " The first night, from Dungarrvan we went to a towne called Yowhhol, where we had very good cher, and were honestly received, and there they dyd sell a galond of Gasgoyn wyne for 4d. sterlyng. — State Paper, v. ii, p. 283.
134 HISTORY OF COEK.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 64

As the companion tells it

Youghal, a town in Cork. In 1535, Captain Ap. Parry, serving Lord Leonard Gray, came from Dungarvan for the night. His words: "we had very good cheer, and were honestly received, and there they did sell a gallon of Gascony wine for 4d. sterling."

Dunboy Castle blown up after siege

near Dunboy · street · Cork · 1602

On 22 June 1602, the castle of Dunboy was blown into the air and all its works and fortifications utterly destroyed after a siege. Ten pieces of ordnance, powder, shot, and provisions were captured. Captain Tirrell's men were executed after refusing to betray the Catholic cause.

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On the 22nd of June, 1602, the castle of Dunboy was blown into the air, and all its works and fortifications utterly destroyed.
Some of Captain Tirrell's men were among the prisoners. The president propounded a " stratagem " to the captain — some accomplished piece of devilment, no doubt — by the doing of which he and his men were to get their lives and liberties. He replied, " I will ransom my men with money, if that be accepted, but

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 183

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Dunboy, on 22 June 1602, the castle was blown into the air and all its works and fortifications utterly destroyed. Ten pieces of ordnance, powder, shot, and provisions were captured. Captain Tirrell's men were among the prisoners. The president proposed what the book calls "some accomplished piece of devilment" by which they would get their lives and liberties. Tirrell said he would ransom his men with money, if that be accepted. His men refused to betray the Catholic cause and were executed.

Earl of Desmond confesses to siege of Kilfeacle

Kilfeacle · townland · Laois · 1568

During his indictment in 1568, the Earl of Desmond denied various charges of disloyalty but confessed to laying siege to Kilfeacle and taking goods at Kilshelan for a distress.

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government. Andrew Skiddy and Richard Creagh, the titular Archbishop of Armagh, who had lately come from Borne, and was at this time a prisoner in the Tower, were examined on this charge, without eliciting anything of importance. Jacques Wingfield was also examined " concerning the confession of a little friar," who had been a messenger between Shane O'Neill, the Earl of Desmond, and his brother John. The earl denied the charges made in the first twenty-two articles, but confessed to the siege of Kilfeacle, and having taken goods in Kilshelan for a distress. Desmond asserts his authority, as Lord Palatine, to rule all Geraldines in Munster. In all causes between two Geraldines he held that he should be judge ; but these prerogatives or powers he was now required to resign. He had no choice, while a prisoner in the Tower, but to do so. He is even content that her majesty should take from him a portion of his lands and liberties for the more quiet government of the realm.
Commissioners were appointed to govern Munster during the earl's imprisonment. They arrive in Cork, where they write, January 14th, 1568, to the Lords Justices. "Wood kerne, under Gerot Bracke, one of the Earl of Desmond's near kinsmen, intercepted our letters, certain kerne lay in ambush for us, but Lord Barrymore and John Fitz-Edmund, Dean of Cloyne, met us, and led us to Barry's Court." They had a dangerous and wet journey, and when they got to Cork, none of the Munster chieftains came to meet them. The Countess of Desmond wrote them, January 1 1th, from Kilmallock: "the country is in such disorder that few can trust a father, a son, or a brother." She

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 95

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in 1568, the Earl of Desmond laid siege to Kilfeacle. He confessed to it himself, while a prisoner in the Tower of London. He had been brought up on a long list of charges, twenty-two articles accusing him of disloyalty, and he denied every one of them. But he admitted to the siege of Kilfeacle, and to taking goods at Kilshelan for a distress. He also insisted on his old authority as Lord Palatine, claiming the right to rule all Geraldines in Munster and to judge in any cause between two of them. Those powers were precisely what he was now required to give up. He had no choice, locked in the Tower, and so he surrendered them. He even said he was content that her majesty should take a portion of his lands and liberties for the more quiet government of the realm. Commissioners were appointed to govern Munster during his imprisonment. When they arrived in Cork, they wrote to the Lords Justices on January 14th, 1568. Wood kerne under Gerot Bracke, one of the earl's near kinsmen, intercepted their letters. Certain kerne lay in ambush for them. Lord Barrymore and John Fitz-Edmund, Dean of Cloyne, met them and led them to Barry's Court. The journey had been dangerous and wet, and when they reached Cork, none of the Munster chieftains came to meet them. The Countess of Desmond wrote from Kilmallock on January 11th, saying the country was in such disorder that few could trust a father, a son, or a brother.

Earl of Desmond drowned at Ardfinnan ford on the Suir, 1399

Ardfinnan · town · Tipperary · 1399

Sir John, the fifth Earl of Desmond, succeeded his father the poet earl in 1398. The following year, 1399, he was drowned at the ford of Ardfinnan on the river Suir while in pursuit of the Butlers.

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Sir John, the fifth earl, succeeded his father, the poet, in 1398, and was drowned at the ford of Ardfinnan, on the river Suir, the next year, 1399, while in pursuit of the Butlers.
Of Thomas, the sixth earl, who died in 1520, we have a sadly interesting tale. When hunting on the banks of the Feal, near the town of Listowel, in Kerry, he strayed from his companions, and lost his way, and being benighted, took shelter in the house of Mac Corinac, one of his dependants. Mac Cormac had a fair daughter, Catherine,* with whom the young earl

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 29

As the companion tells it

Ardfinnan sits on the river Suir. In 1398 Sir John became the fifth Earl of Desmond, succeeding his father, the poet earl. The next year, 1399, he was drowned at the ford of Ardfinnan on the Suir while in pursuit of the Butlers.

First charter of Cork under Henry II

Cork · city · Cork · 1185

Cork received its first charter while John was deputy in the reign of Henry II, granting the citizens all fields held of the city, with laws, franchises, and customs matching those of Bristol. The original charter is lost but a copy survives among the Harleian MSS in the British Museum.

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" I have granted and given, and by this my charter confirm, to the citizens of Cork, all the fields held of my city of Cork, and the ground on which the city is, now for my benefit to increase the strength of the citizens. This is to them and their heirs, to hold of me, and my heirs, and to remain in frank burgage, by such custom and rent as the burgesses of Bristol, in England, pay \early lor their burgages, and to secure my city of Cork, 1 grant this to the same my citizens of Cork, all the laws, franchises, and customs or freight which are in Bristol, on whatsoever sails. And firmly commanding that the aforesaid, my citizens of Cork, and their heirs, and their successors have the aforesaid city of Cork, of me and my successors, as is aforesaid, and have all the laws and franchises, and frank customs of Bristol, and as those were wont to be used and written in my court, and in my hundred of Cork, and in all business."
We discover from the terms '' in my Hundred of Cork," that the court of D } Oyer Hundred was in existence at this early period. U* Cyer is an old French word, signifying " to hear." This corporation court of a hundred hearers has become a court of about half this number of speakers.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 45

As the companion tells it

Coming up on the city of Cork, which received its first charter in 1185, while John was deputy in the reign of Henry 2. The original charter is lost, but a copy survives among the Harleian manuscripts in the British Museum. The charter granted to the citizens of Cork all the fields held of the city, and the ground on which the city stands, to hold in frank burgage by the same custom and rent as the burgesses of Bristol paid for their burgages. It granted them all the laws, franchises, and customs of Bristol. The charter says the citizens and their heirs and successors were to have the city, with all the laws and franchises and frank customs of Bristol, as those were wont to be used and written in the king's court, and in his hundred of Cork, and in all business. One phrase stands out. The words in my Hundred of Cork show that the court of Oyer Hundred was in existence at this early period. Oyer is an old French word signifying to hear. This corporation court of a hundred hearers has since become a court of about half that number of speakers.

Fitzmaurice takes Castlemartyr Castle

Castlemartyr · townland · Cork · 1573

In November 1573, James Fitzmaurice (the Geraldine) expelled government forces from the chief towns of Munster and took Castlemartyr Castle in Cork as part of a month-long campaign subjugating the region from Waterford to Bealach Conglais.

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In the course of one month he expelled the government forces from the chief towns of Munster, taking the castles Baile na Martra [Castle Martyr], in Cork, and Castlemaine, in Kerry. He did not leave a resident chief in any town in the country, from the meeting of the Three Waters [at Waterford] to Bealach Conglais, that he did not bring under subjection in one month.
Sir John Perrott left for England in the autumn this year. "We are told by the Four Masters that his u departure was lamented by the poor, the widow, the infirm, and the un warlike."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 108

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Castlemartyr, James Fitzmaurice the Geraldine took the castle in November 1573. In the course of one month he expelled the government forces from the chief towns of Munster, taking this castle, called Baile na Martra, in Cork, and Castlemaine, in Kerry. He did not leave a resident chief in any town from the meeting of the Three Waters at Waterford to Bealach Conglais that he did not bring under subjection. Sir John Perrott left for England that same autumn. The Four Masters say his departure was lamented by the poor, the widow, the infirm, and the unwary.

Florence MacCarthy and spy John Annias in Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1599–1600

Florence MacCarthy remained in Cork after his return to Ireland in May 1599. John Annias was employed as a spy upon all his actions and was introduced to Florence in Cork as an engineer.

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Florence Mac Carthy remained some time in Cork after his return to Ireland, and here one John Annias was employed as a spy upon all his actions. It appears from his examination that he was introduced to Florence, in Cork, as an engineer. Let us turn to
" The Examination of John Annias, taken before Sir Nicholas Walsh and Justice Comer ford, the 13th of October, 1600:—

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 152

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, this is where Florence MacCarthy stayed after his return to Ireland in May 1599. A man named John Annias was employed to spy on all his actions. Annias was introduced to Florence here in Cork, posing as an engineer. His examination was taken before Sir Nicholas Walsh and Justice Comerford on the 13th of October, 1600.

Henry II Charter grants Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1172

In 1172, Henry II granted the government of the city of Cork and its adjoining cantred to Robert Fitzstephen and Milo De Cogan, while retaining the city in his own hands.

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" Know ye, that I have granted, and by this my charter, confirmed to Robert Fitzstephen and Milo De Cogan, the government of the city of Cork, with the cantred which belonged to the Ostmen of the said city, — which I retain in my own hands — to have and to hold them together, during my pleasure, and as long as they shall serve me faithfully. I, moreover, by this my charter, give, grant, and confirm to them and their heirs, all the Kingdom of Cork, except the said city, and the before-mentioned cantred, which I retain in my own hands ; to hold to them and their heirs, of me and of my son John, and our heirs, by an exact division, towards the Cape of Saint Brandon, on the sea-coast, and towards Limerick and other parts, and as far as the Water near Lismore, which runs between Lismore and Cork, and falls into the sea ; by the service of sixty knights, to be performed thereout, to me and my son John, and our heirs; the service of thirty knights to be performed by the said Robert, and his heirs, and the service of thirty knights, by the said Milo, and his heirs. Wherefore, I will, and strictly command, that the said Robert and Milo, shall have and hold the government of the said city and cantred, in manner as it is before mentioned, and that they and their heirs, shall have and hold all the kingdom aforesaid, except the said city and cantred, (which I
* Abbots here rank after Archbishops, and before Earls. Coke says there used to be twenty-six Abbots in England, (Fuller says " twenty-seven,") and two Priors, who were Lords of Parliament, and sat in the House of Peers." William de Kose, Lord Chief Justice of Ireland, in 1355, was Prior of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 9

As the companion tells it

Cork, a city the road takes you through or near, carries a charter from 1172. Henry II granted the government of this city and its adjoining cantred, the land that had belonged to the Ostmen of Cork, to Robert Fitzstephen and Milo De Cogan. He kept the city itself in his own hands. They were to hold it together, during his pleasure, as long as they served him faithfully. The charter went further. Henry gave, granted, and confirmed to them and their heirs all the Kingdom of Cork, except the city and the cantred he retained. They were to hold it of Henry and his son John and their heirs, by an exact division. The boundaries ran towards the Cape of Saint Brandon on the sea-coast, towards Limerick and other parts, and as far as the water near Lismore, the river that runs between Lismore and Cork and falls into the sea. For this they owed the service of sixty knights. Robert and his heirs were to perform thirty, and Milo and his heirs the other thirty. Henry commanded that Robert and Milo hold the government of the city and cantred as described, and that they and their heirs hold all the kingdom, except the city and cantred, which he kept for himself.

Lord Deputy Gray takes Pretended Earl's castle at Youghal

Youghal · town · Cork · 1535–1536

Lord Deputy Leonard Gray marched into the Pretended Earl of Desmond's territory and seized his castle at Youghal, foraging his corn and dismantling the building by carrying off doors and windows before firing the roof. The action was part of an unsuccessful effort to entangle the Pretended Earl.

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James, his eldest son, set up his title to the earldom ' This James was called the Traitor. He is called in public documents the " Pretensid Earl of Desmond." Wise, writing to Crumwell, says, " We are like to have some sporte, procol db urbana luxuria, with the Desmonds and the Breenys." The Deputy, Leonard Gray, marches into his country, and endeavours to "entangle" him, but without success; so he takes his castle at Loughyl, makes a forage on his corn, and carries away " doris and wyndowes, firing the roffe themsilffes."
Notwithstanding, this " Pretended Earl of Desmond," with something of the patience of Job, " shewed himself, in gesture and communication, very reasonable and condescending ;" but the Deputy has his suspicions, and does not like to trust him, or encourage his hopes to the earldom, the right heir being in London, preferring his more legitimate claims before the king. The Pretended Earl has a conference with the Mayor of Limerick, the Chief Justice, and the Master of the

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 64

As the companion tells it

The town of Youghal sits on the south coast of Cork, and in 1535 it was held by a man called James, known in public documents as the Pretended Earl of Desmond. He was also called the Traitor. Lord Deputy Leonard Gray marched into his country and tried to entangle him, but had no success. So Gray took his castle at Youghal. He made a forage on the corn and carried away the doors and windows, firing the roof themselves. It was a dismantling, not a siege. A man called Wise had written to Crumwell that they were likely to have sport with the Desmonds and the Breenys. The Pretended Earl, despite all this, showed himself, in gesture and communication, very reasonable and condescending. But Gray did not trust him. The right heir to the earldom was in London, pressing his claims before the king. Gray preferred those claims and would not encourage the Pretended Earl's hopes.

Maurice Oge, second Earl of Desmond, died at Castlemaine

Castlemaine · town · Kerry · 1358

Maurice Oge, eldest son of the first Earl of Desmond, succeeded his father but enjoyed the property and title only three years, during which he waged fierce war with the De Burgos and Poers after Lord Arnold Poer called his father a rhymer. He is supposed to have died at Castlemaine in 1358.

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Maurice Oge, the eldest son of the first earl, succeeded his father, but he enjoyed the property and the title but three years, during which he seems to have waged fierce war with the De Burgos and Poers. Lord Arnold Poer had called his father a rhymer, Perhaps the old earl made but indifferent verses ; but the son could not brook the taunt, so to war they went. He is supposed to have died at Castlemaine in 1358.*
* Castlemaine in 1358.— O'Flahcrty adds to the year 1357, in II. 2. 11 :— " Comes Uesmonia transfretando submersus."

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 23

As the companion tells it

As you come through Castlemaine in Kerry, this is where Maurice Oge, the second Earl of Desmond, is supposed to have died in 1358. He was the eldest son of the first earl and held the title only three years. In that time he waged fierce war against the De Burgos and the Poers, because Lord Arnold Poer had called his father a rhymer. Perhaps the old earl made indifferent verses, but the son could not brook the taunt, so to war they went.

Ormond's Subsidy in Kilkenny

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1523–1524

The Earl of Ormond was accused of imposing a subsidy of four pence on the king's subjects over twelve years old within the county of Kilkenny. This subsidy was intended to cover his expenses for traveling to England.

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letters patent ; for joining the king's enemies against the king's deputy, and sending O'Carroll four gunners, with guns and powder, to defend the said O'Carroll's castle ; for permitting the late bishop of Leghlyn to be heynously murdered by the abbot of Duske's son [Maurice Kavanagh]; for burning, robbing, and spoiling the deputy's town, called Lyvetiston ; murdering and burning seventeen men and women, divers of them being with child, and one of them that fled out of the fire to the churche, slayne on the high auter [altar] ; for keeping a warde of evill disposed persounes that only robbe and spoyle and ravish women, maydens, and wydowes ; for allowing churches to go to extreme decaye, without making provision for divine service, so that few or none laboureth to the appostill, without the consente of the said earl and his wyf, by whom he is ruled ; * for imposing a subsidie of four pence on the king's subjects, passing the age of twelve years, within the county of Kilkenny, towards his charges into Englande ; and finally, for sending over to one Eobert Cowley, to indite complaintes and diverse untrothes against the Earl of Kildare, he the said Eobert Cowley, " having with hym a signet of the said Earl of Ormondes, to seale the same."
This state paper concludes thus : — " In case the Earl of Ormond make any new matter of the letter which

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 56

As the companion tells it

Kilkenny city was the setting for a heavy demand laid on its people. The Earl of Ormond was accused, among many things, of imposing a subsidy of four pence on the king's subjects within the county of Kilkenny, on every person passing the age of twelve years. The money was meant to cover his charges going into England. This was one charge among many in a state paper against him. He was accused of joining the king's enemies against the king's deputy, and sending O'Carroll four gunners with guns and powder to defend O'Carroll's castle. He was accused of permitting the late bishop of Leghlyn to be murdered by the abbot of Duske's son, Maurice Kavanagh. He was accused of burning and spoiling the deputy's town, called Lyvetiston, and of murdering and burning seventeen men and women, some of them with child. One woman who fled the fire to the church was slain on the high altar. He was said to keep a ward of evil disposed persons who robbed and ravished women, maidens, and widows. He was accused of allowing churches to fall into extreme decay, and of being ruled by his wife. Finally, he was accused of sending over to one Robert Cowley to indict complaints against the Earl of Kildare, with a signet of the Earl of Ormond's to seal the same.

Parliament of 1585 summoned in Dublin

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1585

A proclamation of parliament was issued commanding Irish chiefs to assemble in Dublin on May-day 1585. The parliament assembled on the 26th of April for the confiscation of the Earl of Desmond's vast estates, with numerous Anglo-Norman lords, English adventurers, and Irish chieftains in attendance.

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" A.D. 1585. A proclamation of parliament was issued to the men of Ireland, commanding their chiefs to assemble in Dublin precisely on May- day, * for the greater part of the people of Ireland, were, at this time, obedient to their sovereign ; and according they all, at that summons, did meet in Dublin, face to face."
The parliament assembled in Dublin, the 2Cth of April. The Four Masters mention the names of a number of Irish chieftains, who repaired to this parliament, although they did not take their seats j* as members.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 122

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dublin, this is where a parliament was summoned in 1585. A proclamation went out commanding the chiefs of Ireland to assemble in the city on May-day. The greater part of the people were then obedient to their sovereign, and accordingly they all, at that summons, did meet, face to face. The parliament assembled on the 26th of April for the confiscation of the Earl of Desmond's estates. Anglo-Norman lords, English adventurers, and Irish chieftains attended, though the Four Masters note they did not take their seats as members.

Ruined Anglo-Norman families in Cork

Cork · city · Cork

Sir Henry Sydney was visited in Cork by ruined descendants of ancient English families of the province, such as the Arundels, Rochfords, Barretts, Flemings, Lombards, and Terries. Their ancestors lived like gentlemen, but they were now banished or oppressed upon their own lands.

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" There came to me also many of the ruined relics of the ancient English inhabitants of this province, as the Arundels, Eochfords, Barretts, Flemings, Lombards, Terries, and many others whose ancestors (as it may appear by monuments, as well in writing as of building) were able, and did live like gentlemen, and knights some of them ; and now all in misery, either banished from their own, or oppressed upon their own."
" Lastly, there came to me five brethren, and the sons of two other brethren of one lineage, all captains of galloglass, called Mac Swynes,* who, although I place them last of the rest, yet are they of as much consequence as any of the rest, for of such credit and force were they grown into (although they were no lords of lands themselves), as they would make of the greatest lords of the province, both in fear of them> and glad of their friendship.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 106

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Cork, the city carries an older story. Sir Henry Sydney was visited here by the ruined relics of the ancient English inhabitants of this province. The Arundels, the Rochfords, the Barretts, the Flemings, the Lombards, the Terries, and many others came to him. Their ancestors, as he said, were able and did live like gentlemen, and knights some of them, as monuments in writing and in building still showed. Now all were in misery, either banished from their own or oppressed upon their own. There came to him also five brethren and the sons of two other brethren of one lineage, all captains of galloglass, called the Mac Swynes. They were no lords of lands themselves, but they had grown into such credit and force that the greatest lords of the province feared them and were glad of their friendship.

Siege of Waterford by Perkin Warbeck

Waterford · city · Waterford · 1497

In July 1497, Perkin Warbeck and Maurice, Earl of Desmond, advanced on Waterford with 2,400 men to besiege it. The city's defenders flooded the surrounding area and resisted fiercely.

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u An opportunity was now afforded them to prove the sincerity of their professions, and the extent of their devotion, for immediately on his landing, the whole strength of the rebel force was directed against Waterford, Perkin Warbeck, and Maurice, Earl of Desmond, with an army of 2,400 men, advanced to the city, and on the 23rd of July prepared to invest it. This force was intended to assault the western division, while a fleet of eleven ships, which arrived at Passage, was ordered to engage from the river ; there was also a body of troops landed from the fleet, who were to proceed in the direction of Lumbard's Marsh, and co-operate with the land forces.
" To prevent the junction of these two divisions, the

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 43

As the companion tells it

Waterford came under siege in July of 1497. Perkin Warbeck and Maurice, Earl of Desmond, arrived with an army of 2,400 men and on the 23rd of July prepared to invest the city. Their plan called for an assault on the western division while a fleet of eleven ships, which had arrived at Passage, engaged from the river. A body of troops landed from the fleet was to proceed toward Lumbard's Marsh and co-operate with the land forces. Steps were taken to prevent the junction of these two divisions.

Sir Cormac Teige MacCarthy Knighted in Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1575

Sir Cormac Teige MacCarthy was knighted by Sir Henry Sydney in 1575 on the occasion of Sydney's visit to Cork. Sydney described him as the rarest man born of the Irishry for loyalty and civil disposition, and wished him to be made a baron.

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captured and bound by a blacksmith, and hid in a bush till the skirmish was over, and then delivered into the hands of Sir Cormac Teige Mac Carthy, Lord of Muskerry. Smith says, that for this service he was knighted by the Chief Justice, and made High Sheriff of the county. We think this is a mistake. Sir Cormac Teige was knighted by Sir Henry Sydney in 1575, • on the occasion of his visit to Cork. In describing this visit, Sir Henry Sydney calls him Sir Cormac Teige, and wishes him to be made a baron; and says, that for " loyalty and civil disposition " he was the " rarerst man that ever was born of the Irishry."
"A.D. 1580. — James Oge set out in rebellion to seek a prey in Muskerry, but Cormac, the son of Teige Mac Carthy, lord of the country, had all his forces assembled to oppose him. Cormac being informed that James had passed by him, proceeded to a certain place through which he knew James would pass, and he soon perceived James coming towards him with a prey, and he attacked him, and slew and destroyed the greater number of his people. James himself was taken, and sent to Cork to be imprisoned. He was [confined] nearly a month in this town, daily preparing himself for death, doing penance for his sins, and asking forgiveness for his misdeeds. At the end of that time a writ arrived from Dublin, from the Lord Justice and the council, ordering the mayor * to put

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 113

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, this city sits at the heart of a story from 1575. Sir Henry Sydney came to Cork that year, and on the occasion of his visit he knighted Sir Cormac Teige MacCarthy, Lord of Muskerry. Sydney called him Sir Cormac Teige, and wished him to be made a baron. He said that for loyalty and civil disposition he was the rarest man that ever was born of the Irishry. There is an earlier tale tied to Cormac Teige. A man was captured and bound by a blacksmith, hidden in a bush until a skirmish was over, then delivered into the hands of Sir Cormac Teige MacCarthy. The blacksmith claimed he was knighted by the Chief Justice and made High Sheriff for this service, but the author considers this a mistake. In 1580, James Oge set out in rebellion to seek a prey in Muskerry. Cormac, son of Teige MacCarthy, lord of the country, assembled his forces to oppose him. Cormac learned James had passed by him, and went to a place through which he knew James would pass. He soon saw James coming towards him with a prey, attacked him, and slew and destroyed the greater number of his people. James was taken and sent to Cork to be imprisoned. He was confined nearly a month in this town, daily preparing himself for death, doing penance for his sins, and asking forgiveness for his misdeeds. At the end of that time a writ arrived from Dublin, from the Lord Justice and the council, ordering the mayor to put him to death.

Sir Richard Edgecomb arrives at Kinsale to receive oaths of allegiance

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1488

Sir Richard Edgecomb, employed to receive the oaths of allegiance of Irish lords who had supported Lambert Simnel, arrived in Kinsale harbour on 27th June 1488 with five ships and five hundred men. He initially refused to land and compelled Lord Thomas Barry to attend him on board.

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Sir Richard Edgecomb, who had been employed to receive the oaths and allegiance of the Irish lords who had espoused the pretensions of Lambert Simnel, arrived in the harbour of Kinsale on the 27th June, 1488. He had five ships and five hundred men. He, notwithstanding, refused, at first, to land, but compelled Lord Thomas Barry, or Barry Oge, to attend him on

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 42

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Kinsale now. On 27 June 1488, Sir Richard Edgecomb sailed into this harbour with five ships and five hundred men, sent to receive oaths of allegiance from the Irish lords who had backed Lambert Simnel. He refused to land at first, and compelled Lord Thomas Barry to attend him on board.

Spenser's poetic description of the River Lee and Cork

near River Lee · river · Cork

Edmund Spenser poetically praised the rivers of Ireland, including the River Lee. He described the Lee as enclosing Cork with its divided flood, making it like a fair island.

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" Ne thence the Irishe rivers absent were, Sith no lesse famous than the reste they bee, And joyne in neighbourhood of kingdome nere, Why should they not likewise in love agree, And joy likewise this solemne day to see ? They saw it all, and present were in place : Though I then all, according their degree, Cannot recount, nor tell their hidden race, Nor read the salvage countries through which they pace. There was the Liffy rolling downe the lea ; The sandy Slane ; the stony Aubrion ; The spacious Shenan, spreading like a sea; The pleasant Boyne; the fishy fruitful Ban; Swift Awniduff, which of the English man, Is cal'de Black -water; * and the Liifar deep; Sad Trowis, that once his people over-ran ; Strong Allo tombling from Slewlagher steep ; And Mulla mine, whose waves I whilom taught to weep. There also was the wide embayed Mayre ; The pleesant Bandon cround with many a wood ; The spreading Lee, that like an island fayre, Encloseth Corke with his divided flood."
If by jolly Hobbinal, and all the shepherd's nation, he intended to represent the Irish nation, the poet must have been under the erroneous impression that he was as much beloved as he was hated.']' Colin has just returned from England :

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 136

As the companion tells it

Edmund Spenser, the Elizabethan poet who lived in Ireland, praised the rivers of this country in verse. He gave them a place among the rivers of Britain, arguing that since they shared a near kingdom, they should share in love and celebration too. He could not recount them all, he said, nor trace their hidden courses, nor read the wild countries through which they pass. But he named them. The Liffy rolling down the lea. The sandy Slane. The stony Aubrion. The spacious Shenan, spreading like a sea. The pleasant Boyne. The fishy fruitful Ban. Swift Awniduff, called by the English Blackwater. The Lifar deep. Sad Trowis, that once his people overran. Strong Allo tumbling from Slewlagher steep. And Mulla, his own river, whose waves he said he once taught to weep. Among them was the Lee. He called it the spreading Lee, that like an island fair, encloseth Cork with his divided flood. The river splits and wraps the city, making it seem an island. The book's editor noted that if Spenser meant his shepherd characters to stand for the Irish people, the poet was under the erroneous impression that he was as much beloved as he was hated.

Spenser's widow and the Kilcolman estate

Kilcolman · townland · Cork · 1603–1611

Spenser's widow regained the Kilcolman estate and remarried in 1603 to Roger Seckerstone. The poet's eldest son Sylvanus petitioned the Lord Chancellor, resulting in an inquisition at Mallow in 1611 to determine the property's disposition.

Read the passage

Read off the scanned page by machine, so a word here and there is misread. Kept as the reading produced it, not corrected.

Spenser's widow, who seems to have regained the Kilcolman estate, was married a second time in 1603, to Eoger Seckerstone. We cannot say whether it was her interest in the Kilcolman property, or her beauty which charmed Seckerstone " to byte."
Sylvanus, the poet's eldest son, who felt that his rights had been compromised by this marriage, petitioned the Lord Chancellor — the original petition is in the Rolls Office, Dublin — who issued an order for an inquisition. The inquisition was taken in Mallow, in the county of Cork, the 7th of August, 1611.

Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 139

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Spenser's widow regained the Kilcolman estate and married a second time in 1603, to Roger Seckerstone. Whether it was her interest in the property or her beauty that charmed Seckerstone, the record cannot say. Sylvanus, the poet's eldest son, felt his rights had been compromised by the marriage. He petitioned the Lord Chancellor, whose original petition rests in the Rolls Office in Dublin. The Lord Chancellor issued an order for an inquisition, taken at Mallow on the 7th of August, 1611.

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

The stories, best first

Cormac Oge MacCarthy seeks English favour near Cork, 1521

Kilmallock burnt by rebels before Sydney's arrival

Lord Justice wounded at the Blackwater and dies at Newry

Munster rebellion erupts after withdrawal to Cork, 1598

Perkin Warbeck visits Cork; Earl of Desmond raises men

Raymond Le Gros granted inheritance in Kerry

Secret supper at Youghal implicating Desmond in treason

Ship from St. Malo arrives at Kinsale

Spaniards Driven from Strancally Castle

Spanish and Italian troops land at Dún an Óir

Warder of Strancally Castle slain

Blarney Castle agreed to be yielded to the Spaniards

College of Youghal founded by Earl of Desmond, 1464

Cromwell orders restoration of William Spencer's Fermoy estate

Danish naval engagement at Cork

Desmond sacks Youghal

Desmond's grandfather beheaded at Drogheda

Desmond's hosting and plunder around Cashel

Earl demands return of Mocollop castle from prison

Earl of Kildare at Carrickfergus

Execution of Mac Egan's chaplain in Cork

Execution of Spaniards at the fort of Smerwick

Failed bribery of Dunboy constable on Bere Island

Gerald the poet Earl captured near monastery of Maio

Hugh Tirrel's theft from priests of Armagh and divine retribution

Irish lords attend parliament but refuse seats

James of Desmond received at Youghal

Lord Barry kills eighty near Cork

MacCarthy marches on Cork, 1182

Maurice Duv "the Freebooter" slain at Carrigaline Castle

Murder of James, Earl of Desmond at Rathkeale

Parliamentary Earl Received at Mallow

Sir Henry Sydney's vice-regal assembly in Cork

St. Leger visits Cork, Kinsale, and Youghal

Cork merchants petition for Desmond's release

Kilbrittain Castle stormed by Earl of Desmond

Kinsale seeks Desmond's return against rebels

Maurice of Desmond slain in Muskerry

Rory O'Conor endows strolling scholars at Armagh, 1169

Standoff at the Blackwater against James Fitz-John of Desmond

Battle of Callan: defeat of the Geraldines

Brehon O'Breslin's roll at the Fermanagh assizes

Captain Ap. Parry's visit to Youghal, 1535

Dunboy Castle blown up after siege

Earl of Desmond confesses to siege of Kilfeacle

Earl of Desmond drowned at Ardfinnan ford on the Suir, 1399

First charter of Cork under Henry II

Fitzmaurice takes Castlemartyr Castle

Florence MacCarthy and spy John Annias in Cork

Henry II Charter grants Cork

Lord Deputy Gray takes Pretended Earl's castle at Youghal

Maurice Oge, second Earl of Desmond, died at Castlemaine

Ormond's Subsidy in Kilkenny

Parliament of 1585 summoned in Dublin

Ruined Anglo-Norman families in Cork

Siege of Waterford by Perkin Warbeck

Sir Cormac Teige MacCarthy Knighted in Cork

Sir Richard Edgecomb arrives at Kinsale to receive oaths of allegiance

Spenser's poetic description of the River Lee and Cork

Spenser's widow and the Kilcolman estate