History of the Diocese of Meath (vol. 1)

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

1. Kilbeggan atrocity: women and boy buried alive

   Kilbeggan · town · Westmeath · 1641

   In the streets of Kilbeggan rebels wounded Jane Browne and her daughter Margaret Browne, hanged a boy called John Lother, and then threw the boy and the two wounded women into a hole and buried them alive, refusing to bury Margaret's suckling infant with her; the infant later starved and died in the streets.

   Read the passage

   One of the most horrible tragedies of the time happened at Kilbeggan, and is deposed to by John Naghten, a resident in that town. He tells that " the rebells in the streets of Kilbeggan wounded Jane Browne, an English Protestant, and her daughter, Margaret Browne, and at the same time hanged, at Kilbeggan, a young boy called John Lother, and then returning to those wounded women, they there made a great hole in the ground, and therein having thrown the said boy, they also then and there forced and threw into the same hole said wounded women ; and whereas the one of them, viz., the said Margaret, had a sucking child, and desired that if they would bury her alive, that they would also bury with her her said suckling child, because she knew they would kill or starve it. They refused that request, but then and there forcibly threw clay and stones upon both those women, and in most inhuman and barbarous manner buried them both alive, and the poore infant starved and died in the streets."

   These extracts are quoted not from any desire to retail horrible stories, but because without them it would be impossible to show to what a low ebb the Church in our diocese was reduced in that miserable period. The depositions from which they are taken are full of such recitals, and prove as plainly as anything can be proved that the aim of the insurgents was to destroy our Church, and to banish every Protestant from the land. Not all the sophistry of the most ingenious special pleader can overcome this plain testimony of eye-witnesses, who gave their evidence within a few months of the occurrences which they relate.

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 133

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Kilbeggan in Westmeath, there is a story from 1641 that John Naghten, a resident of the town, swore to. He said that rebels in the streets of Kilbeggan wounded Jane Browne, an English Protestant, and her daughter Margaret Browne, and hanged a young boy called John Lother. Then they dug a great hole in the ground, threw the boy in, and forced the two wounded women into the same hole. Margaret had a sucking child, and she begged them to bury the infant with her, because she knew they would kill it or starve it. They refused. They threw clay and stones on both women and buried them alive. The poor infant starved and died in the streets. The author includes this account not to retail horrible stories, but because without them it would be impossible to show how low the Church in the diocese was reduced in that miserable period. The depositions are full of such recitals, and prove that the aim of the insurgents was to destroy the Church and banish every Protestant from the land. The author calls this plain testimony of eyewitnesses who gave their evidence within a few months of the events they describe.

2. Patrick lights the Paschal fire at Slane

   Slane · townland · Meath · 432–460

   Patrick sailed up the Boyne and made his way inland to Slane, where on Easter eve he lit a Paschal fire that was seen from Tara, provoking consternation among the druids conducting a rival heathen festival there.

   Read the passage

   it with suspicion, but in its main outlines it is probably a true recital. We are told that Patrick, sailing along the coast, arrived at the mouth of the River Boyne, where he left his boat, and made his way inland as far as Slane. He arrived there on Easter eve, and proceeded to light a " Paschal fire." But at the same time a heathen festival was being held at Tara, and part of the ceremonial was that all the lights in the country should be extinguished, to be relighted by a new fire which the Druids were wont to obtain by friction. It was believed that thereby good crops and general prosperity would be secured. Great was the consternation, therefore, when on the distant hill the saint's fire was perceived, and it is said that the druids assured the king that " this fire which we see shall never be extinguished to all eternity unless we can put it out to-night." The monarch thereupon ordered his chariot, drove over to Slane, and summoned Patrick to appear before him. He was manifestly the victim of a considerable amount of superstitious fear, regarding the saint as a superior kind of magician, and he felt by no means reassured when Patrick came boldly forward with his companions, chaunting the words of the Psalm, " Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we will remember the Name of the Lord our God." He therefore professed friendliness, and invited Patrick to appear before him at Tara, and explain his doctrine, while at the same time he arranged that an ambush should be laid on the way, by which treachery he hoped to rid himself of the obnoxious missionary. But when the watchers returned to find that Patrick and his followers had arrived before them, and when they reported that there had passed them, as they watched, a small herd of deer, equal in number to that of the party of Christians, even the king's druids began to

   6 HISTORY OF THE DIOCESE OF MEATH

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Slane, Patrick is said to have landed a boat at the mouth of the Boyne and made his way inland, arriving on Easter Eve sometime between 432 and 460. He lit a Paschal fire on the hill here. At the same time a heathen festival was under way at Tara, and part of the ceremonial required that all lights in the country be extinguished, to be relit by a new fire the druids obtained by friction, believed to secure good crops and prosperity. Great was the consternation when the saint's fire was seen on the distant hill. The druids told the king that "this fire which we see shall never be extinguished to all eternity unless we can put it out to-night." The monarch ordered his chariot, drove over to Slane, and summoned Patrick to appear before him. The king was full of superstitious fear, regarding the saint as a superior kind of magician. Patrick came boldly forward with his companions, chanting the words of the Psalm, "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we will remember the Name of the Lord our God." The king professed friendliness and invited Patrick to appear at Tara and explain his doctrine, but at the same time arranged an ambush on the way, hoping to rid himself of the missionary by treachery. When the watchers returned they found Patrick had already arrived before them, and they reported seeing a small herd of deer pass them, equal in number to the party of Christians. Even the king's druids began to take notice.

3. Turgesius Drowned in Lough Owel, 845

   Lough Owel · lake or lakes · Westmeath · 845

   In 845 the Danish leader Turgesius was taken prisoner by an ingenious stratagem and put to death by the Irish by drowning in Lough Owel, Westmeath, though his death brought only temporary respite from Danish raids.

   Read the passage

   The first experience that Meath had of these marauders was in 833. A large body came in ships and landed on the coast of Wexford, and then made their way northwards, penetrating more or less into the interior of the country, and spoiling as they went. They proceeded as far as Duleek and Slane, both of which places they plundered. After that they returned to their ships and departed with their booty. A few years later, in 839, a more formidable expedition arrived under the leadership of the famous Turgesius, whose aim was not merely to plunder, but to form for himself and his followers a settlement in the island. His first enterprise was in the north, and he took possession of the ecclesiastical city of Armagh, forcing the abbot to flee, and appropriating to himself all the possessions of the church. After that he seems to have conceived the idea of subjugating the whole island, and with that purpose in view sent a fleet of ships round to the mouth of the Shannon, who, sailing up the river, reached as far as Clonmacnoise, which place they seized. It is said that his wife Ota took up her residence in one of the churches, and used to " give her audience," seated upon the altar.s After that he overran the whole of Meath, finding his richest booty in the ecclesiastical establishments. In 845, however, he was taken prisoner by an ingenious stratagem, and was put to death by the Irish by drowning in Lough Owel, in Westmeath. His death, however, brought only a temporary respite, for, only a few years later, " the foreigners plundered from the Shannon to the

   8 Wars of the Gaedhil with the Gaill, xi. Some writers have interpreted this to mean that she gave " oracular responses " from the altar. There are really no grounds for such a supposition.

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 26

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass Lough Owel here in Westmeath, you are near the lake where a Danish leader met his end in 845. His name was Turgesius. He first arrived in 839 with a formidable expedition, aiming not just to plunder but to settle. He seized the ecclesiastical city of Armagh and forced the abbot to flee. He sent a fleet up the Shannon as far as Clonmacnoise and seized that place too. It is said his wife Ota sat upon the altar in one of the churches there and used to "give her audience." He overran the whole of Meath, taking his richest booty from the churches. In 845 the Irish took him prisoner by an ingenious stratagem and put him to death by drowning in this lake. His death brought only a temporary respite. A few years later the foreigners were plundering again, from the Shannon onward.

4. Burning of the Oratory of Trevet with 262 Persons

   Trevet · townland · Meath

   Danish foreigners burned the oratory of Trevet near Dunshaughlin, killing three hundred and sixty-two persons who were in the church at the time, all of whom perished in the flames.

   Read the passage

   sea," b and among their exploits on that occasion was the burning of the oratory of Trevet, near Dunshaughlin, there being in the church at the time three score and two hundred persons, all of whom perished in the flames.

   A short respite ensued, due, perhaps, to internal dissensions amongst the strangers, and at the same time an effort was made to promote some degree of unity amongst the native tribes. A great meeting of the chieftains of Ireland was assembled at Rahugh, in Westmeath, " to establish peace and concord between the men of Ireland." ? The abbots of Armagh and Clonard attended the meeting, and if the good resolutions at which they arrived had only been carried into effect, something might, no doubt, have been done to stem the tide of invasion. But the truce between Irish factions has always been of an evanescent kind, and the divisions of the people have been the great strength of their enemies.

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 26

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Trevet, Danish foreigners burned the oratory, near Dunshaughlin. There were 362 persons in the church at the time, and all of them perished in the flames. A short respite followed, perhaps due to internal dissensions among the strangers themselves.

5. Cromwell's siege of Drogheda

   Drogheda · town · Louth · 1649

   Cromwell besieged Drogheda, attacking the wall of Saint Mary's churchyard where breach marks could still be seen, and broke down the church's tower and steeple to enter the town. A massacre of the garrison and townspeople followed, remaining a stain on his memory.

   Read the passage

   Cromwell directed his attack on the wall of the

   churchyard of Saint Mary's, where marks of the breach

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 137

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Drogheda, this is where Cromwell besieged the town in 1649. He directed his attack on the wall of the churchyard of Saint Mary's, where marks of the breach could still be seen. A massacre of the garrison and townspeople followed after he broke down the church's tower and steeple to get in.

6. John Keating struck mad while plundering Trim church altar

   Trim · town · Meath · 1689–1690

   On Christmas night a soldier named John Keating, a 'church rapparee', broke into Trim church to plunder the altar and was reportedly struck with sudden madness after seeing a terrifying vision; he died raving three weeks later, an event attributed by the vicar to divine vengeance.

   Read the passage

   This will give you an account of an eminent instance of God's vengeance shown on one John Keating, a church rapparee, who, in the very act of plundering and breaking of our church was struck with a sudden madness, in which he continued for the space of three weeks ; and that day three weeks he was struck mad, died in a sad and miserable condition. The manner of it was this : This Keating was a soldier in the Lord of Kinmare's regiment ; he, with other his associates, having often before plundered, broken and despoiled, the seats of our Church, without interruption or disturbance, resolved on Christmas Day, at night, to break and plunder our altar (on which we had that day celebrated the Holy Communion) ; and to that end he, with two more, about midnight, entered the church. This Keating immediately attempted to break one of the folding doors leading to the Communion Table, and endeavouring with all his force to wrest the door from its hinges, immediately (as he thought) saw several glorious and amazing sights ; but one ugly black thing (as he called it) gave him a great souse upon the poll which drove him immediately into so great disorder, that he tore all the clothes off his back and ran naked about the streets, and used all Bedlam pranks whatever. He was put into the dungeon, where he remained for the space of fourteen days, without either meat, drink, clothes, or anything necessary

   7 Dopping, Correspondence.

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 153

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Trim in Meath, there's a story from Christmas night in 1689. A soldier named John Keating, what the vicar called a church rapparee, served in the Lord of Kinmare's regiment. He and his companions had been plundering the church in this town, and on Christmas night, about midnight, he and two others broke in to strip the altar, where communion had been celebrated that day. Keating tried to force open the folding doors to the communion table, and as he wrenched at the hinges, he saw what he took to be several glorious and amazing sights — but then, as he called it, 'one ugly black thing' gave him a great blow on the head. He lost his mind on the spot, tore all the clothes off his back, and ran naked through the streets, acting out every Bedlam prank. He was locked in the dungeon for 14 days without food, drink, or clothing, and died three weeks after he was struck, in what the vicar recorded as an eminent instance of God's vengeance.

7. Archbishop of Dublin killed at Artane during Silken Thomas rebellion

   Artaine · parish · Dublin · 1534

   The Archbishop of Dublin tried to escape by boat but was stranded at Clontarf, and was killed by Lord Thomas Fitzgerald at Artane during the rebellion.

   Read the passage

   but went forth at the head of his followers, and shortly afterwards laid siege to Dublin. The Archbishop of Dublin endeavoured to escape by boat, but was stranded at Clontarf , and was killed by Lord Thomas, at Artane. It does not appear what part the new Bishop of Meath took in these proceedings, but he too considered his life to be in danger, and fled, with greater success than the archbishop, for he managed to make his way safely to England. It was by no means a pleasant beginning for his episcopate.

   Meath suffered considerably in this rebellion. First Dunboyne was burned by the insurgents. Then a skirmish was fought at Dunshaughlin, in which they were worsted. Afterwards they took Trim, and Lord Thomas " ther robbed not only the same (towne of Trim), but also brente a great part thereof, and took all the cataill of the countrie thereaboughtes." 3 Several of the Meath gentry joined in the insurrection, and some of the clergy. Among the latter was Charles Reynolds, Archdeacon of Kells, who went with others on a mission, first to the Pope, and then to the Emperor^ Charles V., hoping that in the irritation caused by the divorce of Queen Katherine these potentates would be ready to give help against King Henry. Their efforts in this direction, however, proved fruitless, and in the meantime the followers of Silken Thomas began to fall away from him, until at length he was obliged to submit. He was sent to the Tower, and in 1537 was executed with five of his uncles at Tyburn.

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 84

8. Betrayal of Trim's Yellow Steeple

   Trim · town · Meath · 1649

   During a 1649 siege of Trim, Major William Cadogan gallantly defended the town until betrayed by one Martyn who controlled the strategic Yellow Steeple overlooking the castle, forcing surrender; after Cadogan retook the town he blew up one side of the steeple as a lasting memorial of the treachery.

   Read the passage

   with this town, the following curious story, referring to the " Yellow Steeple," is recorded in the Down Survey. It does not, however, fit in with any of the incidents mentioned in the above quotation. " The steeple stood undefaced till the year 1649, m which there happened a siege, which was gallantly withstood by the then governor, whose command and name was Major William Cadogan, till by the judasme of one Martyn (who was then intrusted with the steeple, which overlooked, and soe consequently commanded the castle) was betrayed, which forced a surrender both of towne and castle. But suddenly, after it being regained, and the aforesaid governor re-invested, he caused one side of it to be blowne upp, and the other remaynes standing to this day for a memorandum of treachery to after ages."

   Shortly after this, in the year 1650, a plague broke out in Ireland, and a proclamation was issued by Ireton " concerning the present Hand of God, in the visitation of the plague, and for the exercise of fasting and prayer in relation thereto." It was in this epidemic that Bishop Anthony Martin succumbed. When the Duke of Ormond surrendered Dublin to the Commissioners of the English Parliament, they " at once abolished the liturgy, and substituted the Directory in its place. Bishop Martin had the courage to disregard this order, and used the Book of Common Prayer in the College Chapel, and preached against the heresies of the time with an apostolic liberty in a crowded congregation. He died in the College in 1560 of the plague which then raged in Dublin, in great poverty, and was buried in the ante-chapel near the north wall, under the old steeple."

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 138

   As the companion tells it

   The road brings you through Trim in Meath. The Yellow Steeple here has a story from the Down Survey, set in 1649. The steeple stood undefaced until that year, when a siege came. The governor, Major William Cadogan, gallantly withstood it. But a man named Martyn was entrusted with the steeple itself, which overlooked the castle and so commanded it. Martyn betrayed his trust. The treachery forced a surrender of both town and castle. Soon after, the town was regained and Cadogan was re-invested as governor. He had one side of the steeple blown up. The other side remains standing, as the record says, for a memorandum of treachery to after ages. Shortly after, in 1650, a plague broke out in Ireland. Ireton issued a proclamation calling for fasting and prayer in relation to the visitation. Bishop Anthony Martin died in that epidemic. When the Duke of Ormond surrendered Dublin to the Commissioners of the English Parliament, they abolished the liturgy and substituted the Directory in its place. Bishop Martin disregarded the order and used the Book of Common Prayer in the College Chapel, and preached against the heresies of the time before a crowded congregation. He died in the College in 1560 of the plague which raged in Dublin, in great poverty, and was buried in the ante-chapel near the north wall, under the old steeple.

9. Chancery Litigation Over the Opened Cathach Shrine, 1814

   Kells · town · Meath · 1814

   A superstition arose that disasters would befall the O'Donnell family if the shrine of the Psalter was opened. In 1814 Mary O'Donnell brought Chancery proceedings against Sir William Betham, Ulster King at Arms, alleging he had opened the casket without permission.

   Read the passage

   the Psalter of Saint Columba was made in Kells in the eleventh century, and is still in existence, with an inscription indicating the place of its manufacture. For a long time it had been used as one of the insignia of battle by the tribe of the O'Neills, and was carried round the host on the breast of a " sinless cleric," before they went out to fight. When the book came to be used in this way, it ceased to be employed for reading, and, indeed, was hermetically sealed up in its casket. Then a superstition arose that great disasters would happen to the O'Donnell family (a branch of the O'Neills) if the shrine was opened. It is one of the curiosities of litigation that, in consequence of this superstition, proceedings in Chancery were commenced in 1814, by Mary O'Donnell, widow of Sir Neal O'Donnell of Newport, against Sir William Betham, Ulster King at Arms, for having, as she alleged, opened the casket without permission.11

   There are also extant two croziers, one belonging to Durrow and the other to Kells. The former is the oldest, and the latter the most beautiful of these relics in existence. The crozier of Durrow is at present in the Museum of the Royal Irish Academy in Dublin, and that of Kells in the British Museum. This last was found accidentally some years ago in London, when some alterations were being made in a house there. A cupboard had been built into one of the walls, and on this being removed, the crozier was found behind it. How it came there, or how long it had remained thus hidden, has never been found out ; but that it formerly belonged to Kells was shown by an Irish inscription, which told that it had been made by one Maelfinnen of that town. It passed at first into the possession of Cardinal Wiseman, and at the death of

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 22

   As the companion tells it

   As the road carries you through Kells, this is a town where the Psalter of Saint Columba was made in the eleventh century. An inscription on the book records its place of manufacture here. For a long time the Psalter served as one of the insignia of battle for the O'Neill tribe. It was carried round the host on the breast of a “sinless cleric” before they went out to fight. When the book came to be used this way, it stopped being used for reading, and was hermetically sealed up in its casket. Then a superstition grew up that great disasters would happen to the O'Donnell family, a branch of the O'Neills, if the shrine was ever opened. In 1814, because of this superstition, proceedings in Chancery were commenced by Mary O'Donnell, widow of Sir Neal O'Donnell of Newport, against Sir William Betham, Ulster King at Arms. She alleged he had opened the casket without permission. There are also two croziers connected to this area, one from Durrow and one from Kells. The Durrow crozier is the oldest of these relics, and the Kells crozier the most beautiful. The Durrow crozier is now in the Museum of the Royal Irish Academy in Dublin, and the Kells crozier in the British Museum. The Kells crozier was found accidentally in London some years ago, when alterations were being made to a house there. A cupboard had been built into one of the walls, and when it was removed, the crozier was found behind it. How it came there, or how long it had been hidden, was never discovered. But an Irish inscription showed it had been made by one Maelfinnen of Kells. It passed first into the possession of Cardinal Wiseman.

10. Hugh de Lacy murdered at Durrow

    Durrow · parish · Westmeath

    Hugh de Lacy founded an Augustinian abbey at Durrow and began building a castle there. It was at Durrow that he was murdered by an Irish youth disguised as a workman.

    Read the passage

    Hugh de Lacy also founded an Augustinian abbey at Durrow,1? and at the same place began the erection of a castle. It was here that he met with his death, for he was murdered by an Irish youth, who had disguised himself as a workman. In the Dublin Penny Journal of June i5th, 1833, there is figured an old monastic seal, which had been found at Lynbury,

    15 See several entries in the Calendars of the Vatican Records.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 47

11. Kildare drags Bishop Payne from a church at swordpoint

    Meath · county · Meath

    After their friendship soured, the Earl of Kildare chased Bishop Payne into a church and, following him with a drawn sword, dragged him out and made him prisoner, requiring royal intervention.

    Read the passage

    the Rolls in 1496. His friendship with the Earl of Kildare was not lasting, and they are said to have become " as mortal enemies as they had been friends." On one occasion the earl chased him into a church, and following with a drawn sword, dragged him out, and made him prisoner. The King had to interfere in order to secure his release, and both bishop and earl then went over to England to lay their quarrel before Henry VII. The story of their interview with that monarch is most amusing. First of all, the bishop made his complaint, and the only reply that the earl gave was that he was not learned, and, therefore, could not answer, and besides had forgotten all that he had done. The king then suggested that he should choose a councillor who would plead his cause ; but the earl, with ready wit, was equal to the occasion, and said to the monarch, " Well, I can choose no better man than you, and by Saint Gride, I will choose none other." Then, taking the King by the hand, he added, " There is not in London a better mutton master or butcher than yonder shorn priest is." Bishop Payne tried to be dignified through all this, and appealed to the king, " Well, he is as you see, for all Ireland cannot rule yonder gentleman." But the King was so amused with the whole business that he refused to take the bishop seriously. " No ? " he answered interrogatively, " then he is meet to rule all Ireland, seeing that all Ireland cannot rule him." with that he made the Earl Lord Deputy, and dismissed the pair.

    According to Ware, Payne died on the sixth of March, 1506, " and was buried, says George Cogley, in Dublin, in a monastery of his own order, yet he erected a marble tomb, once adorned with brass plates, for himself and his successors, in Saini. Patrick's,

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Meath, you are in the country where a quarrel between church and nobility once needed a king to settle it. Bishop Payne and the Earl of Kildare had been friends, but they turned, in the words of the record, as mortal enemies as they had been friends. On one occasion the earl chased the bishop into a church, followed him inside with a drawn sword, dragged him out, and made him his prisoner. The King had to intervene to secure the bishop's release, and both men then crossed to England to lay their quarrel before Henry the Seventh. The bishop made his complaint first. The earl's only reply was that he was not a learned man and could not answer, and besides had forgotten all he had done. The king suggested he choose a councillor to plead his cause. The earl said he could choose no better man than the king himself, and by Saint Gride would choose none other. Then, taking the king by the hand, he declared there was not in London a better mutton master or butcher than the bishop. The bishop tried to stay dignified and told the king that all Ireland could not rule the earl. The king, amused, answered that if all Ireland could not rule him, then he was meet to rule all Ireland. With that, Henry made the earl Lord Deputy and dismissed them both. Bishop Payne died on the 6th of March, 1506.

12. King Leary summons Patrick and lays an ambush

    Tara · parish · Meath · 432–460

    The king, alarmed by the fire seen from Tara, drove to Slane to summon Patrick, then invited him to Tara while secretly arranging an ambush on the way, which failed when Patrick's party arrived unexpectedly.

    Read the passage

    it with suspicion, but in its main outlines it is probably a true recital. We are told that Patrick, sailing along the coast, arrived at the mouth of the River Boyne, where he left his boat, and made his way inland as far as Slane. He arrived there on Easter eve, and proceeded to light a " Paschal fire." But at the same time a heathen festival was being held at Tara, and part of the ceremonial was that all the lights in the country should be extinguished, to be relighted by a new fire which the Druids were wont to obtain by friction. It was believed that thereby good crops and general prosperity would be secured. Great was the consternation, therefore, when on the distant hill the saint's fire was perceived, and it is said that the druids assured the king that " this fire which we see shall never be extinguished to all eternity unless we can put it out to-night." The monarch thereupon ordered his chariot, drove over to Slane, and summoned Patrick to appear before him. He was manifestly the victim of a considerable amount of superstitious fear, regarding the saint as a superior kind of magician, and he felt by no means reassured when Patrick came boldly forward with his companions, chaunting the words of the Psalm, " Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we will remember the Name of the Lord our God." He therefore professed friendliness, and invited Patrick to appear before him at Tara, and explain his doctrine, while at the same time he arranged that an ambush should be laid on the way, by which treachery he hoped to rid himself of the obnoxious missionary. But when the watchers returned to find that Patrick and his followers had arrived before them, and when they reported that there had passed them, as they watched, a small herd of deer, equal in number to that of the party of Christians, even the king's druids began to

    6 HISTORY OF THE DIOCESE OF MEATH

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala

13. Norse Raid on Iona Leads Monks to Found 'New Iona' at Kells

    Kells · town · Meath · 804–806

    After Norsemen devastated Iona, the brethren fled to Kells under Abbot Cellach in 804 (or 806) carrying Columba's bones and founding a 'new Iona,' building the structure now known as Saint Columkill's House.

    Read the passage

    In later years the connection between Kells and lona was again renewed ; for when the Norsemen, in one of their first expeditions, devastated the islands on the west coast of Scotland, and, among other places, attacked lona, the brethren gathered all their possessions together and, headed by their abbot, Cellach, fled to Kells, and founded there what they called a " new lona." They carried with them the bones of their founder, and erected, possibly for the reception of these relics, the building which at present exists, and is known as Saint ColumknTs House. This was in the year 804, according to the Annals of Clonmacnoise, or 806, according to the Annals of Ulster. Cellach did not remain long, but returned to lona shortly afterwards, where he died in 815. Some of his followers, however, remained, and Kells rose to the highest importance among the Columban establishments. It continued to be one of the leading churches in Ireland up to the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion.

    Both Kells and Burrow are famous for their remains of ancient Irish art. The Book of Kells is perhaps the greatest treasure in the library of our University, and the Book of Durrow nearly approaches it in value and beauty. The latter has an inscription in Latin on the back of the twelfth folio, which may be translated : " I pray thy blessedness, O holy presbyter, Patrick, that whosoever shall take this book into his hand may remember the writer, Columba, who have myself written this Gospel in the space of twelve days by the

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Kells, a town in Meath with an old connection to Iona. That connection was renewed when the Norsemen, in one of their first expeditions, devastated the islands on the west coast of Scotland and attacked Iona. The brethren gathered all their possessions together and, headed by their abbot, Cellach, fled to Kells and founded there what they called a new Iona. They carried with them the bones of their founder, and erected, possibly for the reception of these relics, the building which at present exists and is known as Saint Columkill's House. This was in the year 804, according to the Annals of Clonmacnoise, or 806, according to the Annals of Ulster. Cellach did not remain long, but returned to Iona shortly afterwards, where he died in 815. Some of his followers, however, remained, and Kells rose to the highest importance among the Columban establishments. It continued to be one of the leading churches in Ireland up to the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion. Both Kells and Durrow are famous for their remains of ancient Irish art. The Book of Kells is perhaps the greatest treasure in the library of our University, and the Book of Durrow nearly approaches it in value and beauty.

14. Turgesius Seizes Clonmacnoise and Overruns Meath

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 839–845

    Turgesius, a formidable Danish leader, sent a fleet up the Shannon which seized Clonmacnoise around 839; his wife Ota reportedly took residence in one of the churches, holding audience seated upon the altar. He then overran all of Meath, plundering its ecclesiastical establishments before being captured and drowned in Lough Owel in 845.

    Read the passage

    The first experience that Meath had of these marauders was in 833. A large body came in ships and landed on the coast of Wexford, and then made their way northwards, penetrating more or less into the interior of the country, and spoiling as they went. They proceeded as far as Duleek and Slane, both of which places they plundered. After that they returned to their ships and departed with their booty. A few years later, in 839, a more formidable expedition arrived under the leadership of the famous Turgesius, whose aim was not merely to plunder, but to form for himself and his followers a settlement in the island. His first enterprise was in the north, and he took possession of the ecclesiastical city of Armagh, forcing the abbot to flee, and appropriating to himself all the possessions of the church. After that he seems to have conceived the idea of subjugating the whole island, and with that purpose in view sent a fleet of ships round to the mouth of the Shannon, who, sailing up the river, reached as far as Clonmacnoise, which place they seized. It is said that his wife Ota took up her residence in one of the churches, and used to " give her audience," seated upon the altar.s After that he overran the whole of Meath, finding his richest booty in the ecclesiastical establishments. In 845, however, he was taken prisoner by an ingenious stratagem, and was put to death by the Irish by drowning in Lough Owel, in Westmeath. His death, however, brought only a temporary respite, for, only a few years later, " the foreigners plundered from the Shannon to the

    8 Wars of the Gaedhil with the Gaill, xi. Some writers have interpreted this to mean that she gave " oracular responses " from the altar. There are really no grounds for such a supposition.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 26

15. Plundering of Kells and Other Meath Churches, 949

    Kells · town · Meath · 949

    In 949 Godfrey son of Sitric, with the foreigners of Dublin, plundered Kells, Donaghpatrick, Ardbraccan, Dulane, Disert Keiran, Kilskyre and other Meath churches, with Kells serving as the base from which all the plundering was conducted, carrying off over three thousand captives.

    Read the passage

    The history soon begins to repeat itself with painful uniformity ; and we have once more the story renewed of burning and slaughter and plunder. In 949, for example, the Annalists tell us that " Godfrey son of Sitric, with the foreigners of Dublin, plundered Kells, Donaghpatrick, Ardbraccan, Dulane, Disert Keiran, Kilskyre, and other churches in Meath in like manner; but it was out of Kells that they all plundered. They carried upwards of three thousand persons with them into captivity, besides gold, silver, raiment, and various wealth and goods of every description."10 We note, however, one important difference ; it is that from this time almost invariably they have one or other of the Irish tribes associated with them in their expeditions. Thus, in 938, we have the Munstermen joined with the Danes of Waterford in plundering the churches of Meath. In 951, the men of Leinster and the Danes of Limerick attack Clonmacnoise. In 967, and again in 968, we have the Leinstermen making common cause with the Danes of Dublin, and attacking Kells ; and the same thing is repeated again and again. When we come to the eleventh century, the Danes become less and less associated with the plunder of monasteries, until at last the mention of them ceases altogether. But the evil work goes on the same, perhaps one might say with increased frequency, only it is the native tribes who are the marauders. The truth is that in the meantime the Danes had become Christian ; while the natives seem to have lost whatever respect they once had for the houses of God. This fact may to some extent explain the readiness with which the Church

    10 Annals of the Four Masters, A.D. 949.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 26

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Kells, in Meath. The history of this place is one of burning and slaughter and plunder, repeated with painful uniformity. In 949, the annalists tell us that Godfrey son of Sitric, with the foreigners of Dublin, plundered Kells, Donaghpatrick, Ardbraccan, Dulane, Disert Keiran, Kilskyre, and other churches in Meath in like manner. But it was out of Kells that they conducted all the plundering. Kells was their base. They carried upwards of 3000 persons with them into captivity, besides gold and silver, raiment, and various wealth and goods of every description. From this time onward, there is an important difference. Almost invariably, the foreigners have one or other of the Irish tribes associated with them in their expeditions. In 938, the Munstermen joined with the Danes of Waterford in plundering the churches of Meath. In 951, the men of Leinster and the Danes of Limerick attacked Clonmacnoise. In 967 and again in 968, the Leinstermen made common cause with the Danes of Dublin and attacked Kells itself. The same pattern is repeated again and again. By the eleventh century, the Danes become less and less associated with the plunder of monasteries, until at last the mention of them ceases altogether. But the evil work goes on the same, perhaps with increased frequency, only it is the native tribes who are the marauders. The Danes had become Christian, while the natives seem to have lost whatever respect they once had for the houses of God.

16. Battle of Dungan's Hill near Laracor, 1647

    near Dungan's Hill · hill or hills · Meath · 1647

    The most important engagement of the rebellion took place at Dungan's Hill near Laracor on 8 August 1647, a Sunday, when Colonel Michael Jones's English forces won a decisive victory over General Preston's Irish army despite the Irish having every tactical advantage of ground and position.

    Read the passage

    The most important engagement of all took place at Dungon's Hill, near Laracor, in 1647. The following description of the fight is taken from the Down Survey : " On the 8th of August, 1647, being the Lord's Day, happened a very greate battaile betweene the English and the Irish. Collonell Michaell Jones commanded the English, and one, General Preston, the Irish. The advantages that the Irish had were as many as men could have against men. Theire ground was high, theire artillery ready planted, theire men ready drawen up in battallia, immured with mudd walles, the sunn and winde in theire reare, two woods and a large bogg through which the English must march if they intended to fight. The English in a marching motion, and had not roome to drawe upp. But it pleased the Almighty Disposer of all things to magnify Himselfe

    u

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 136

17. Burglary of Clonmacnoise treasures, 1129

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 1129

    A Norseman named Gillachomgain broke into the church at Clonmacnoise and stole numerous jewels and treasures, including a model of Solomon's Temple and several precious cups and drinking horns. He was eventually caught and hanged, confessing that St Ciaran had stopped ships he tried to escape on.

    Read the passage

    should not violate this freedom for ever ; and they all gave their curse to any king who should violate it ; " and though it is dangerous for every king to violate Columbkille, it is particularly dangerous to the king of Tara, for he is the relative of Columbkille." The fifth charter is the lease of a house in Kells. The sixth tells how Ardbraccan was purchased from the king. And the seventh tells of land, lying between the town of Kells and the river, which was purchased for twentyfour ounces of silver, and which was, in all probability, the land which constituted the glebe of Kells up to the time of disestablishment.12 From all this it would appear that the church of Kells had quite a large estate ; and no doubt that which is thus shown to be true of Kells must have been true of many other places as well. As to property of other kinds, such as church ornaments and the like, we learn something from the story of the burglary committed at Clonmacnoise in the year 1129. A Norseman from Limerick, but bearing the very Irish name of Gillachomgain, broke into the church and abstracted from thence all the " jewels " on which he could lay his hands. The catalogue of the stolen goods is given. They consisted of a model of Solomon's Temple, the standing cup of Donnough MacFlynn, a silver goblet, a silver cup with a* gold cross over it, a drinking horn with gold, another drinking horn, a silver chalice with a burnishing of gold, which had been engraved by the daughter of Rory O'Connor, and a silver cup which had belonged to Kelly, Bishop of Armagh. The thief thought to escape from the country, and went successively to Cork, Lismore. and Waterford ; but whenever he went on board a ship the wind became contrary, and he was forced to return. In the end he was caught and hanged,

    12Stopford, Handbook of Ecclesiastical Law, p. 50.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 28

18. De Lacy and O'Rorke meet at the Hill of Ward

    Hill of Ward, Tlachtgha · hill or hills · Meath · 1170–1180

    De Lacy and Tiernan O'Rorke arranged a conference at the Hill of Ward near Athboy to define territorial limits, agreeing to come unarmed. The meeting ended in violence, with O'Rorke killed by De Lacy's followers.

    Read the passage

    habits and disposition, he was firm and steadfast, as temperate as a Frenchman, very attentive to his own private affairs, and indefatigable in public business and the administration of the government committed to his charge. Although he had great experience in military affairs, as a commander he had no great success in the expeditions which he undertook. After he lost his wife he abandoned himself to loose habits, and not being contented with one mistress, his amours were promiscuous. He was very covetous and ambitious, and immoderately greedy of honour and reputation." Such was the man who now, with almost undisputed sway, took over the government of Meath. He had only one rival. This was Tiernan O'Rorke, who still claimed jurisdiction over those districts in Meath which had been granted to him under King Roderic. De Lacy did not altogether deny his claim, but suggested that a friendly conference should be held, at which the limits of the territory of both should be strictly denned. Accordingly it was arranged that the two should meet at the Hill of Ward, near Athboy, and it was stipulated that both should come unarmed, so that there could be no breach of. the peace. That neither party trusted the other is shown by the fact that they had posted supporters at convenient distances. As to what followed, both parties accuse the other of treachery. On the one side it is asserted that O'Rorke produced a battle axe from beneath his robe and attacked De Lacy ; 3 and on the other side it is alleged that O'Rorke was " treacherously slain." 4 However it was, O'Rorke was killed by the followers of De Lacy, and his headless body sent to Dublin and exposed on the walls. Thus the last competitor was

    * Giraldus.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 34

19. Dispute with King Diarmaid Leads to Columkill's Flight from Kells

    Kells · town · Meath

    Columkill quarrelled with King Diarmaid over a copy of the Psalter and the violation of sanctuary rights, forcing him to flee for his life to the northern clans; it is thought he departed from Kells and composed a protective hymn at that time.

    Read the passage

    but as some of the most striking episodes of ColumkilTs life took place at Teltown, in the immediate neighbourhood, we may fairly assume that he was often there. The tradition is that the site was bestowed on the saint as a kind of recompense for a slight that had been offered to him by the followers of King Diarmaid. The date would be about the same as the founding of Durrow, or possibly a little later. Some time afterwards the king and the saint had a dispute, first about a copy of the Psalter, which Columkill claimed, and afterwards because the king violated the right of sanctuary — a right which was jealously guarded in those days. The result was that Columkill had to fly for his life, until he found refuge among the clans of the north, who were his own kindred. It was probably from Kells that he took his journey on this occasion, and a hymn is still extant, said to have been composed at the time, which was afterwards used as a " Lorica," or " Breastplate," to protect travellers on their journeys. Those who recited it were supposed to be secured against the dangers of the way. As being thus connected with Meath, and as a fair specimen of ancient Irish hymnology, a free metrical rendering may here be presented.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 19

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Kells, in Meath, you are passing through a place that may have been the starting point of Columkill's flight from the king's wrath. The saint and King Diarmaid had fallen into dispute, first over a copy of the Psalter, which Columkill claimed as his own, and then because the king violated the right of sanctuary, a right that was jealously guarded in those days. Columkill had to fly for his life until he found refuge among the clans of the north, who were his own kindred. Before that quarrel, the land at Teltown, in the immediate neighbourhood, had been bestowed on the saint as a kind of recompense for a slight offered to him by the king's followers. It is thought he departed from Kells on this journey, and a hymn is still extant, said to have been composed at the time. It was afterwards used as a "Lorica," or "Breastplate," to protect travellers on their journeys. Those who recited it were supposed to be secured against the dangers of the way.

20. Fore abbey founded by the fugitive de Lacy brothers as thank-offering

    Fore · townland · Westmeath

    After Walter and Hugh de Lacy fled royal displeasure and worked disguised as farm labourers at a Benedictine abbey in Normandy, they were restored to favour, and built the abbey of Fore as a thank-offering for their deliverance, making it a cell of Saint Taurin.

    Read the passage

    The Benedictine abbey of Fore has a somewhat romantic story connected with its foundation. In the reign of King John, the two brothers, Walter and Hugh de Lacy, having fallen under the royal displeasure, fled from the country, and took refuge in Normandy. There they disguised themselves, and took employment as common farm labourers in the Benedictine abbey of Saint Taurin, at Evreaux, and continued in this lowly occupation for some time. Their bearing and demeanour, however, attracted the attention of the superior, who after a time began to suspect that they were not the peasants that they pretended to be. He soon learned their story, and lost no time in interceding with the King on their behalf, with the result that he obtained for them a renewal of the monarch's favour, who consented, on the payment of a fine, to restore them to their possessions in Ireland. The abbey of Fore was built as a thankoffering for this deliverance, and was made a cell to the abbey of Saint Taurin. When Normandy ceased to belong to the King of England, Fore became, by that fact, an " alien priory," and as such was seized into the King's hands, along with many others, in 1369,34 there being war at that time between England

    "State Papers.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 53

21. Franciscan Abbey of Multifarnham hosts rebellion conspiracy

    Fearbranagh or Multyfarnham · townland · Westmeath · 1641

    The conspiracy for the 1641 rebellion was first concocted at the Franciscan Abbey of Multifarnham under the auspices of the Roman Catholic clergy. Resolutions were drawn up there abolishing Protestantism and giving the government of the country to the Romanists.

    Read the passage

    And the facts are these : the conspiracy was first concocted in the Franciscan Abbey of Multifarnham, under the auspices of the Roman Catholic clergy. The question which they debated when planning the rebellion was stated to be " What course should be taken with the English and all others that were found in the kingdom to be Protestants." They drew up there a series of resolutions abolishing Protestantism, and giving the government of the country altogether to the Romanists. A little later, what is known as the " Catholic Confederation " was formed, the very name of which declared its purpose, and in one of its manifestoes it speaks of " the war which now in Ireland the Catholics do maintain against sectaries and chiefly against Puritans." Still later, the Pope's nuncio assumed the whole direction of affairs, and thereby gave the Pope's official sanction and countenance to the movement, and a considerable sum of money was contributed by his Holiness to furnish the " sinews of war." Then, in order to excite the religious zeal of the multitude, a report was industriously circulated that the English were determined to hang all those who refused to go to church, and it was said that a letter had been found — no one seemed to know when or where — which stated that this would be the case. The people were, therefore, assured that their one and only hope was to be beforehand with the Protestants, and to kill them before they had been able to carry out these supposed threats. That political motives were mixed up with all these, it would be idle to deny, but with these facts before us we are forced to the conclusion that those who directed the movement regarded it as being primarily religious, and that the object which they placed before them was the destruction of Protestantism.

    270 HISTORY OF THE DIOCESE OF MEATH

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala

22. Keating dies raving in Thomas Kelly's house in Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1689–1690

    After being held in the dungeon for fourteen days without food or clothes, Keating was removed to Thomas Kelly's house in the town of Trim, where he continued raving about the church spoils until his death about eight days later.

    Read the passage

    for the support of nature ; would not take so much as a drop of cold water ; continually raved of the spoils of the church, saying that he took the most pains in breaking and taking off the hinges, and yet got the least share for his pains. From the dungeon he was removed to one Thomas Kelly's house in the town, where he behaved himself as in the prison, neither eating bit nor drinking drop, or admitting a rag to cover his nakedness ; and about eight days after he removed from the dungeon, died in a sad and deplorable manner. I was so curious as to enquire of those that knew him very well, whether ever he was mad before, or liable to any such disorders ; they all assured me that they never knew anything of that nature by him in the whole course of his life ; so I think we may very well look upon it as the immediate hand of God.

    I dare assure you that this is a great truth, and so evident and manifest that it hath challenged and extorted an acknowledgment from all parties whatever. Neither the Romish clergy nor any of the officers of the regiment (who are all Papist) do in the least disown it ; and it had this influence and effect upon all soldiers and Papists, that from that time forth never any of them were known to enter, plunder, or disturb our church. We have an account that another of Keating's companions at the very same time was struck mad in the very act of breaking the Communion Table, and that within very few hours after he died ; but they politickly concealed it, and buried him privately soon after, for fear it should be known ; but the certainty of this I dare not affirm, but am sure some of their most sober and serious clergy did freely own it.8

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 154

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, you are in a town where a strange and grim death took place around 1689 or 1690. A man named Keating had been held in a dungeon here for fourteen days, taking no food and not even a drop of cold water, all the while raving about the spoils of the church. He kept saying that he took the most pains in breaking and taking off the hinges, yet got the least share for his pains. From the dungeon he was removed to Thomas Kelly's house in the town, where he behaved just as he had in the prison, neither eating a bit nor drinking a drop, nor admitting a rag to cover his nakedness. About eight days after he left the dungeon, he died in a sad and deplorable manner. The author looked into whether Keating had ever been mad before or liable to any such disorders. Those who knew him well all assured him they never knew anything of that nature in the whole course of his life, so he judged it the immediate hand of God. The truth of it was so evident that all parties acknowledged it, and neither the Romish clergy nor the officers of the regiment, who were all Papist, disowned it. From that time forth, none of the soldiers or Papists were ever known to enter, plunder, or disturb the church. There was an account that another of Keating's companions was struck mad at the very same time in the act of breaking the Communion Table, and died within a few hours, but they buried him privately for fear it should be known. The certainty of that second case the author dared not affirm.

23. Assassination at Girley secures Diarmaid's kingship

    Girley · townland · Meath

    A follower of Diarmaid rode to Girley, where the reigning monarch was staying, and using a dog's heart as a ruse to gain access, killed the king with a spear, thereby fulfilling Kieran's prophecy and securing Diarmaid's succession to the throne.

    Read the passage

    into the ground, Diarmaid was there, and assisted in the task. As both grasped the stake together, the saint said to his guest : " Let, O warrior, thy hand be ever my hand, and thou shalt be in sovereignty over the men of Ireland." This emblematic incident forms the subject of one of the sculptures on the great Cross of Clonmacnoise, and may still be easily recognised. Diarmaid was at that moment a fugitive, and a reward was offered to whoever would bring his heart to the reigning monarch. He could scarcely believe the words of the saint when he told him : " Though your companions to-day are few, yet to-morrow you will be chief king of Erin." Yet so it came to pass, for one of his followers, hearing the prediction, determined to aid in its fulfilment. Taking the heart of a dog, he rode with haste to Girley, where the monarch was staying, and, as the supposed bearer«of the heart of Diarmaid, was at once admitted into his presence, when, seizing his opportunity, he thrust the spear that bore the bleeding heart into the king's breast, and thus secured the unexpected succession of Diarmaid to the throne. Large offerings were made to Kieran in recognition of what seemed to have been brought about by his miraculous interposition, and thus, from the very first, Clonmacnoise was rich beyond all other churches in the land. Afterwards kings and chiefs used to send their sons to be educated there, and often spent their own declining years within its sacred precincts, or at all events they were borne thither to be laid at rest in its holy soil ; and thus it happened that for many centuries it was the most important of all Irish religious establishments. Its fame spread even beyond the seas, and many a pilgrim from far-off lands found shelter within its hospitable walls. It produced also some eminent scholars and writers, some of whose works

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 15

24. Giraldus Cambrensis on the Miraculous Illuminated Book of Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    Giraldus Cambrensis described a miraculously written book at Kildare, said to have been made at the dictation of an angel during the time of the Virgin Brigit, containing richly illuminated Gospel pages of extraordinary artistic skill.

    Read the passage

    Among the miracles in Kildare, none appears to me more wonderful than that marvellous book which they say was written at the time of the Virgin Brigit at the dictation of an angel. It contains the Four Gospels according to Saint Jerome, and almost every page is illustrated by drawings, illuminated with a variety of brilliant colours. In one page you see the countenance of the Divine Majesty supernaturally pictured ; in another the mystic forms of the evangelists, with either six, four, or two wings ; here are depicted the eagle, there the calf ; here the face of a man, there of a lion ; with other figures in almost endless variety. If you observe them superficially, and in the usual careless manner, you would imagine them to be daubs rather than careful compositions, expecting to find nothing exquisite, where in truth there is nothing which is not exquisite. But if you apply yourself to a more close examination, and are able to penetrate the secrets of the art displayed

    7 Miss Stokes, Early Christian Art in Ireland, p. 18.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, Giraldus Cambrensis wrote of a marvel here. He said none of the miracles in Kildare seemed more wonderful than a certain book, said to have been written at the time of the Virgin Brigit at the dictation of an angel. It held the Four Gospels according to Saint Jerome, and almost every page was illustrated by drawings, illuminated with a variety of brilliant colours. One page showed the countenance of the Divine Majesty supernaturally pictured. Another bore the mystic forms of the evangelists, with either six, four, or two wings. Here the eagle, there the calf, here the face of a man, there of a lion, with other figures in almost endless variety. He warned that if you looked at them carelessly, you would take them for daubs rather than careful compositions. But if you looked closer and penetrated the secrets of the art, there was nothing which was not exquisite.

25. Dispute over Hugh de Lacy's body between Bective and Dublin

    Bective · townland · Meath

    Hugh de Lacy's head went to Saint Thomas's Abbey in Dublin while his body was interred at Bective, leading to a ten-year dispute over possession of the complete corpse. The Pope eventually settled the matter in favor of the Dublin monks.

    Read the passage

    The ruins which still exist testify to the important position which Bective at one time occupied. There is, however, very little history connected with it. There was an extraordinary dispute between this abbey and that of Saint Thomas in Dublin, concerning the body of Hugh de Lacy. His head somehow came into possession of the Dublin monks, while his body was interred at Bective. Both parties claimed the right to have possession of the complete corpse. If De Lacy had been a saint, whose relics were to be venerated, there could scarcely have been a greater contention about it. For ten years the fight went on, and in the end it had to be settled by the Pope, who deputed the Bishop and Archdeacon of Meath with the Prior of Duleek to adjudicate in the matter. By their decision the monks of Saint Thomas obtained the much coveted prize. 4

    There was another Cistercian house, founded about the year 1200, by the Dalton family, at Kilbeggan in the County Westmeath. It was called ' De Flumine Dei," and was also a daughter monastery of Mellifont. s One of its abbots, William O'Fynnan, was made Bishop of Clonmacnoise in I2g8.6 No vestige of this abbey now exists.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 46

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here are the ruins of Bective, which stand as evidence of the important place it once held, though little history is attached to it. What is remembered is an extraordinary dispute that arose between this abbey and Saint Thomas's in Dublin over the body of Hugh de Lacy. His head came into the possession of the Dublin monks, while his body was interred at Bective. Both sides claimed the right to possess the complete corpse. As the record puts it, if de Lacy had been a saint whose relics were to be venerated, there could scarcely have been greater contention about it. For ten years the fight went on. In the end it had to be settled by the Pope, who deputed the Bishop and Archdeacon of Meath together with the Prior of Duleek to adjudicate. By their decision, the monks of Saint Thomas obtained the much coveted prize.

26. Earl of Desmond beheaded at Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1468

    Bishop Sherwood was credited as a chief agent in the overthrow of the Earl of Desmond, who was treacherously seized at Drogheda and immediately beheaded in 1468.

    Read the passage

    laid the case before the King. In this appeal the bishop was worsted, and Desmond returned in full favour to resume his government. The breach, however, was far from being healed, and Bishop Sherwood is credited with being one of the chief agents in bringing about the earl's overthrow. This occurred in 1468, when Desmond was somewhat treacherously seized at Drogheda, and immediately beheaded.12 Bishop Sherwood's episcopacy lasted until 1482, when he died in Dublin, and was buried in the abbey of Newtown near Trim.

    He was followed by John Payne, a Dominican monk, who was appointed by Pope Sixtus IV., in 1483. Payne is famous for having preached the sermon in Christ Church, Dublin, on the occasion of the coronation of Lambert Simnel. The Earl of Kildare, who was Lord Deputy, received the impostor, and as the bishop was a great friend of his, they were both united in a common cause. When the movement in favour of Simnel collapsed, they both sought and obtained pardon ; and it is said of the bishop that when Sir Richard Edgcomb came over to settle the country, he was one of the first to attend on him. He was subsequently appointed to proclaim the Pope's absolution and the King's pardon to all those who returned to their duty. Warned by the false step he had once taken, he kept aloof from the attempt made to set up Perkin Warbeck in 1492, yet he did not altogether escape the suspicion of disloyalty, for he was one of those who in the following year were required to give " bonds and pledges for the observance of certain articles tending to the peace and well-being of the kingdom." After this he seems to have been received into greater favour, and was made Master of

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    Drogheda is the town ahead, and it was here in 1468 that the Earl of Desmond was somewhat treacherously seized and immediately beheaded. The bishop had laid a case before the King, but in the appeal he was worsted, and Desmond returned in full favour to resume his government. The breach was far from healed. Bishop Sherwood is credited with being one of the chief agents in bringing about the earl's overthrow. Sherwood's episcopacy lasted until 1482, when he died in Dublin and was buried in the abbey of Newtown near Trim. He was followed by John Payne, a Dominican monk appointed by Pope Sixtus IV in 1483. Payne is famous for having preached the sermon in Christ Church, Dublin, on the occasion of the coronation of Lambert Simnel. The Earl of Kildare, who was Lord Deputy, received the impostor, and as the bishop was a great friend of his, they were both united in a common cause. When the movement in favour of Simnel collapsed, they both sought and obtained pardon. It is said of the bishop that when Sir Richard Edgcomb came over to settle the country, he was one of the first to attend on him. He was subsequently appointed to proclaim the Pope's absolution and the King's pardon to all those who returned to their duty. Warned by the false step he had once taken, he kept aloof from the attempt made to set up Perkin Warbeck in 1492, yet he did not altogether escape the suspicion of disloyalty, for he was one of those who in the following year were required to give "bonds and pledges for the observance of certain articles tending to the peace and well-being of the kingdom."

27. Kieran's death and burial legacy at Clonmacnoise

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 545

    On his deathbed at Clonmacnoise, Kieran foretold future persecution of his followers and instructed them to leave his relics behind like the bones of a deer left in the sun, then was carried into the open air to bless his people before dying.

    Read the passage

    Notwithstanding the exaggerations with which the old chroniclers have deformed their story, the picture of this young saint, cut off in the flower of his age, is at once touching and beautiful. On his deathbed he foretold that times of persecution would come, when his followers would be attacked " by evil men, towards the end of the world ; " and when they asked whether in that case they should abide by his bones or go to another place, he replied, " Go, and leave my relics, as the bones of the deer are left in the sun ; because it is better for you to dwell along with me in heaven than to remain here by my relics." He then asked to be brought into the open air. " ' Let me be carried to the little height,' saith he. And when he looked at the sky and the lofty air above his head, he said, ' Awful is this way above/ ' Not for thee is it awful,' say the monks. ' I know not, indeed,' saith he, ' aught of God's commandment which I have transgressed, yet even David son of Jesse, and Paul the Apostle, dreaded this way.' Then angels filled all between heaven and earth, in order to meet his soul. Afterwards he was carried into the little church, and he raised his hands, and blessed his people." 9

    Clonmacnoise, notwithstanding the early demise of its founder, soon surpassed all the religious establishments in Ireland in importance. This may possibly have been primarily due to the fact that the king, Diarmaid, took the place under his protection from the first. On the day when Kieran drove the first stake

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 15

28. Legend of Columkill's Ordination by the Ploughing Bishop

    Clonfad · townland · Westmeath

    According to legend preserved in the Martyrology of Aengus, Columkill was scandalized to find Bishop Etchen ploughing when he arrived for ordination, but was convinced of his worth by miracles; Etchen ordained him only a priest, and Columkill vowed no one would ever again receive orders in that church.

    Read the passage

    This Clonfad is not the place known now as Clonfadforan, but is in the parish of Killucan. Indeed, the name Killucan is a corruption of Kill-Etchen, and commemorates the residence of the saint in that neighbourhood. According to the legend, preserved in the Annotations on the Martyrology of Aengus the Culdee, Columba was at first scandalized by finding on his arrival that the bishop was engaged in ploughing, and he said to his companions : " I think it is not meet for us that a ploughman should confer orders on us." He tested him, however, and was convinced by the miracles which Etchen wrought that he was a man of more than ordinary worth. The account then goes on : " Columkille went up to the cleric, after having thus tested him, and told him what he came for. ' It shall be done,' said the cleric. The order of a priest was then conferred on Columkille, although it was the order of a bishop he wished to have conferred upon him. The cleric prayed until the following day. ' I regret/ said Columkille, ' that thou hast conferred this order upon me, but I shall never change it whilst I live ; for this reason, however, no person shall ever again come to have orders conferred upon him in this church.' And this has been fulfilled, up to this time." ' This strange story is probably the invention of a later age, and is intended to account for the fact that Columkill never became a bishop, and that his successors were, in like manner, not bishops but simple priests. This peculiarity of the Columban order attracted attention at an early date, as being contrary to the general custom, and is referred to by Bede, who, speaking of lona, tells us : " That island has for its ruler an abbot, who is a priest, to whose direction all the province, and even the bishops, contrary to the

    i Todd, Life of St. Patrick, p. 71.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 18

29. Miraculous image of Our Lady of Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1444–1538

    The famous miracle-working image of the Blessed Virgin at St. Mary's Abbey, Trim, was said to have healed the blind, dumb, and lame, and caused wondrous events. Despite popular opposition and Archbishop Brown's denials of intent, the image was eventually publicly burnt and the abbey's valuables sold for the King's treasury.

    Read the passage

    the work was not accomplished without considerable opposition. There were several such images in Meath, and two of them — that at Ballyboggan, and that at Trim — were specially famous. Of the latter, we read in the Annals, under date 1444 : "A great miracle was wrought by the image of Mary at Trim, namely, it restored to sight a blind man, speech to a dumb man, and the use of his feet to a cripple, stretched out the hand of a person to whose side it had been fastened, and caused a pregnant woman to bring forth cats." At them ere suggestion that this wonder-working image was to be destroyed, there was a great commotion. Archbishop Brown, writing to Cromwell, tells him, " There goithe a common brewte amonges the Irish men that I intende to ploke downe Our Lady of Tryme, with other places of pilgrimages, as the Holy Crosse, and such like, which indeade I never attempted, although my conscience wolde right well serve me to oppresse souche ydolles." Notwithstanding this opposition of the people, however, the image of the Blessed Virgin which had so long been the pride of St. Mary's Abbey at Trim, was publicly burnt, and at the same time " divers vases, jewels, and ornaments of gold and silver, bells, and the utensils and household furniture " were sold, and the amount, £186 155. 2d. paid into the King's treasury.

    In these proceedings it was Archbishop Brown who took the initiative. Bishop Staples was less energetic, and was not particularly successful. He found opposition on every hand, and only a halfhearted support from those who were in authority. In 1548 he writes to the Lord Deputy, complaining of the excessive hatred raised against him amongst all ranks of society for his preaching the reformed religion, for which, he says, the people accused him of

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 92

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Trim, in Meath. In this town, St. Mary's Abbey once held a famous image of the Blessed Virgin, and the Annals record what happened there in 1444. A blind man was given back his sight, a dumb man his speech, and a cripple the use of his feet. A hand that had been fastened to someone's side was stretched out, and a pregnant woman, the Annals say, brought forth cats. Two images in Meath were specially famous: this one at Trim and another at Ballyboggan. When word spread that the image at Trim might be destroyed, there was great commotion among the people. Archbishop Brown wrote to Cromwell to say a common report went about among the Irish that he intended to, in his words, "pull down Our Lady of Trim, with other places of pilgrimages." He said he had never attempted it, though he added his conscience would serve him well enough to oppress such idols. Despite the opposition of the people, the image was publicly burnt. At the same time, gold and silver vessels, jewels, ornaments, bells, and household furniture were sold. The amount, 186 pounds, 15 shillings, and 2 pence, was paid into the King's treasury. It was Archbishop Brown who took the initiative in these proceedings. Bishop Staples was less energetic and not particularly successful. He met opposition everywhere and only half-hearted support from those in authority. In 1548 he wrote to the Lord Deputy complaining of the excessive hatred raised against him among all ranks for preaching the reformed religion, for which the people accused him of more than he could defend.

30. The Crozier of Kells Rediscovered in London

    Kells · town · Meath

    The beautiful crozier of Kells, now in the British Museum, was found accidentally in London behind a cupboard built into a wall during house alterations. An Irish inscription revealed it had been made by Maelfinnen of Kells, and it later passed through Cardinal Wiseman's possession to the British Museum.

    Read the passage

    There are also extant two croziers, one belonging to Durrow and the other to Kells. The former is the oldest, and the latter the most beautiful of these relics in existence. The crozier of Durrow is at present in the Museum of the Royal Irish Academy in Dublin, and that of Kells in the British Museum. This last was found accidentally some years ago in London, when some alterations were being made in a house there. A cupboard had been built into one of the walls, and on this being removed, the crozier was found behind it. How it came there, or how long it had remained thus hidden, has never been found out ; but that it formerly belonged to Kells was shown by an Irish inscription, which told that it had been made by one Maelfinnen of that town. It passed at first into the possession of Cardinal Wiseman, and at the death of

    11 Gilbert's National Manuscripts of Ireland.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Kells, the Meath town that gave its name to a famous crozier now in the British Museum. It was found by accident in London, behind a cupboard built into a wall, when alterations were being done to a house. Nobody ever found out how it got there or how long it had been hidden. But an Irish inscription on it showed it had been made by one Maelfinnen of this town. A writer called it the most beautiful of these relics in existence. After it came to light it passed first into the possession of Cardinal Wiseman, and then to the British Museum.

31. Ussher preaches controversial sermon at Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin

    Christ Church Cathedral · ecclesiastical site · Dublin

    On the day Lord Falkland received the sword as Lord Deputy, Bishop Ussher preached at Christ Church Cathedral on the text 'He beareth not the sword in vain', calling for stricter enforcement of laws against Catholic recusants, which caused a great sensation.

    Read the passage

    Shortly after this, Lord Falkland came over as Lord Deputy, and on the day that he received the sword there was service in Christ Church Cathedral, at which Bishop Ussher preached. He took for his text the words in the thirteenth chapter of Romans. " He beareth not the sword in vain," and took the opportunity of speaking out his mind on the subject of the administration of the law. In a letter to Lord Grandison, Ussher gives a resume of the sermon, and says that in the latter part, " falling upon the duty of the magistrates in seeing those laws executed that were made for the furtherance of God's service, I first declared that no more was to be expected herein from the subordinate magistrate than he had received in commission from the supreme, in whose power it

    « Mant.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 122

    As the companion tells it

    Right here is Christ Church Cathedral, where Bishop Ussher preached a sermon that caused a great sensation. It was the day Lord Falkland arrived as Lord Deputy and received the sword. Ussher took his text from the thirteenth chapter of Romans: "He beareth not the sword in vain," and used it to speak his mind on the administration of the law. In a letter to Lord Grandison he said he fell upon the duty of magistrates in seeing those laws executed that were made for the furtherance of God's service. He declared that no more was to be expected from the subordinate magistrate than he had received in commission from the supreme, in whose power it lay.

32. Bishop Cormac MacCoughlan killed in family feud at Clonmacnoise

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 1427

    In 1427 Cormac MacCoughlan was elected bishop after a long vacancy; a family feud arose involving the people of Clonmacnoise, and he gathered his retainers to fight, but he and his son, Archdeacon of Clonmacnoise, were both left dead after the fray.

    Read the passage

    from possessing those qualities which we would expect to find in a bishop. In 1427, for example, after a long vacancy, Cormac MacCoughlan, who had previously been dean, was elected. He was connected with one of the leading Irish families in the neighbourhood, and possibly that fact had some weight in determining the choice. It led, however, to unpleasant consequences. A family feud arose, and the people of Clonmacnoise became involved in it. True to his Celtic instincts, and in a spirit not at all befitting the character of a bishop, he gathered his retainers together, and determined to fight for what he considered to be his rights. But, taking the sword, he was doomed to perish with the sword, and both he and his son, who was Archdeacon of Clonmacnoise, were left dead after the fray.19 Yet we are not to suppose that religion and learning were altogether neglected even under such a regime. It is somewhere about this time that the death is recorded of O'Malone, Dean of Clonmacnoise. For some reason of another he incurred the disfavour of the Archbishop of Armagh, who in 1498 deposed him, styling him the " pretended dean," but the Annalists say of him that he was " the most learned man of all Ireland." 20

    It may be convenient here to complete the account of Clonmacnoise, though in doing so we pass to later times than those we are at present considering. The facts at our disposal are not numerous. In the sixteenth century (1534) we have the death recorded of an " erenach," Cahir MacCoghlan, but it is probable that the word here simply means " archdeacon," and does not imply the continuance of the old Celtic office, which was designated by that term. We have also another fighting ecclesiastic, one Cahir O'Melaghlin,

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 80

33. Bishop Payne preaches at coronation of Lambert Simnel

    Christ Church Cathedral · ecclesiastical site · Dublin · 1487

    John Payne, Bishop of Meath, preached the sermon in Christ Church, Dublin, on the occasion of the coronation of the pretender Lambert Simnel, having allied with the Earl of Kildare.

    Read the passage

    He was followed by John Payne, a Dominican monk, who was appointed by Pope Sixtus IV., in 1483. Payne is famous for having preached the sermon in Christ Church, Dublin, on the occasion of the coronation of Lambert Simnel. The Earl of Kildare, who was Lord Deputy, received the impostor, and as the bishop was a great friend of his, they were both united in a common cause. When the movement in favour of Simnel collapsed, they both sought and obtained pardon ; and it is said of the bishop that when Sir Richard Edgcomb came over to settle the country, he was one of the first to attend on him. He was subsequently appointed to proclaim the Pope's absolution and the King's pardon to all those who returned to their duty. Warned by the false step he had once taken, he kept aloof from the attempt made to set up Perkin Warbeck in 1492, yet he did not altogether escape the suspicion of disloyalty, for he was one of those who in the following year were required to give " bonds and pledges for the observance of certain articles tending to the peace and well-being of the kingdom." After this he seems to have been received into greater favour, and was made Master of

    12 Leland, Book iii., chap. 3.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    Christ Church Cathedral is right here. In 1487, John Payne, Bishop of Meath, preached the sermon in this cathedral on the occasion of the coronation of Lambert Simnel, a pretender to the English throne. Payne was a Dominican monk, appointed by Pope Sixtus IV in 1483, and was a great friend of the Earl of Kildare, who was Lord Deputy and received the impostor. They were united in a common cause. When the Simnel movement collapsed, both sought and obtained pardon, and when Sir Richard Edgcomb came over to settle the country, Payne was one of the first to attend on him. He was then appointed to proclaim the Pope's absolution and the King's pardon to those who returned to their duty. He kept aloof from the later attempt to set up Perkin Warbeck in 1492, yet did not altogether escape suspicion of disloyalty, and the following year was required to give "bonds and pledges for the observance of certain articles tending to the peace and well-being of the kingdom." After this he was received into greater favour and made Master of

34. Burning of the 'idoll of Trym' in 1538

    Trim · town · Meath · 1538

    The miraculous image known by reformers as the 'idoll of Trym' was publicly burnt in 1538, and abbey treasures worth £1,861 15s 2d were confiscated at the same time.

    Read the passage

    This " idoll of Trym," as the reformers called it, was publicly burnt in the year 1538, and at the same time the treasures of the abbey, amounting to the large sum of £1,861 155. 2d., were confiscated. Amongst these treasures were gold and silver vessels, and doubtless many works of art, which would have been priceless if they had been preserved to the present day.

    It has been already mentioned that the monastery at Tristernach had the privileges of a " free churchyard." It may throw some light on the meaning of this if it be mentioned that in 1317 there was a suit between the brethren of Trim and those of Tristernach for the possession of the bodyofRosina de Verdon.21 She had bequeathed herself to Trim, but by some means or another, it happened that she was buried at Tristernach, and the prior of this latter place refused to give up his prize. The matter was referred to ihe Pope, but how the dispute was at length settled is not recorded. The possession of the body carried

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 48

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, in County Meath, you are on the ground where reformers in 1538 publicly burnt a miraculous image they scornfully called the "idoll of Trym." At the same time, the treasures of the abbey here were confiscated, amounting to £1,861, 15 shillings and 2 pence. Among those treasures were gold and silver vessels, and doubtless many works of art, which the source says would have been priceless if they had been preserved to the present day. A separate dispute belongs to this area too. In 1317, the brethren of Trim and those of Tristernach went to law over the body of Rosina de Verdon. She had bequeathed herself to Trim, but by some means she was buried at Tristernach, and the prior there refused to give up his prize. The matter was referred to the Pope, but how the dispute was at length settled is not recorded.

35. Diarmaid and Kieran's founding stake at Clonmacnoise

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly

    King Diarmaid assisted Kieran in driving the first stake into the ground at Clonmacnoise, an emblematic incident sculpted on the great Cross of Clonmacnoise, with Kieran prophesying Diarmaid's future kingship.

    Read the passage

    into the ground, Diarmaid was there, and assisted in the task. As both grasped the stake together, the saint said to his guest : " Let, O warrior, thy hand be ever my hand, and thou shalt be in sovereignty over the men of Ireland." This emblematic incident forms the subject of one of the sculptures on the great Cross of Clonmacnoise, and may still be easily recognised. Diarmaid was at that moment a fugitive, and a reward was offered to whoever would bring his heart to the reigning monarch. He could scarcely believe the words of the saint when he told him : " Though your companions to-day are few, yet to-morrow you will be chief king of Erin." Yet so it came to pass, for one of his followers, hearing the prediction, determined to aid in its fulfilment. Taking the heart of a dog, he rode with haste to Girley, where the monarch was staying, and, as the supposed bearer«of the heart of Diarmaid, was at once admitted into his presence, when, seizing his opportunity, he thrust the spear that bore the bleeding heart into the king's breast, and thus secured the unexpected succession of Diarmaid to the throne. Large offerings were made to Kieran in recognition of what seemed to have been brought about by his miraculous interposition, and thus, from the very first, Clonmacnoise was rich beyond all other churches in the land. Afterwards kings and chiefs used to send their sons to be educated there, and often spent their own declining years within its sacred precincts, or at all events they were borne thither to be laid at rest in its holy soil ; and thus it happened that for many centuries it was the most important of all Irish religious establishments. Its fame spread even beyond the seas, and many a pilgrim from far-off lands found shelter within its hospitable walls. It produced also some eminent scholars and writers, some of whose works

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 15

36. Navan mob attacks vicar and robs Protestants

    Navan · town · Meath · 1641

    When the rebellion became known in Navan, Papist houses celebrated while the vicar sought help to defend the town but was refused. The mob later attacked his house, robbed him of everything, and he was forced to flee disguised with his family, leaving one child behind.

    Read the passage

    At the first breaking out of the rebellion, it was principally confined to the north of Ireland. News of what was going on, however, quickly spread through all the County Meath, and the Protestant inhabitants, being then, as now, comparatively few, were made to suffer from the hostility of their neighbours. In Navan, " after the rebellion was known generally, all the Papist's houses were sett upon a merry pin, dancing, singing, and drinking, as if hell had bin broken open among them." The vicar, fearing violence, and learning too that " the country people were up, and robbing to the very walls of the Navan," went to the portreeve and to some other of the burgesses, and urged them to put a watch at the gates, but their sympathies were all with the rebels, and they refused to take any steps to defend the town. The vicar threatened to report them to the State, but they only ridiculed his threats, and shortly afterwards the populace of Navan attacked his house, robbed him of everything that he possessed ; and attempted to take his life, so that " he was glad to fly with his wife and two children disguised, and to leave one child behind him." 2 At the same time there was a general robbery of all the Protestants in the town, two of whom were killed by the mob. Several others were threatened that they would be killed if they did

    3 MS. Depositions, T.C.D., from which most of the information following is extracted.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 133

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Navan, a town in County Meath. When the 1641 rebellion broke out, news spread fast through Meath, and the few Protestant inhabitants suffered from their neighbours' hostility. In Navan, once the rebellion was known, the Papist houses were, as the source puts it, set upon a merry pin, dancing, singing, and drinking, as if hell had been broken open among them. The vicar feared violence and heard that the country people were up and robbing to the very walls of the town. He went to the portreeve and some of the burgesses, urging them to put a watch at the gates, but their sympathies lay with the rebels and they refused. He threatened to report them to the State, and they only ridiculed him. Shortly after, the populace attacked his house, robbed him of everything he possessed, and tried to take his life. He was, in the source's words, glad to fly with his wife and two children disguised, and to leave one child behind. At the same time, there was a general robbery of all the Protestants in the town, and two of them were killed by the mob. Several others were threatened that they would be killed if they did not comply.

37. The High Cross of Kells and Its Byzantine Influence

    Kells · town · Meath

    Kells preserves portions of five famous high crosses, notable for their bas relief figures which suggest Byzantine artistic influence, possibly brought by artists fleeing iconoclastic controversy. The great cross of Kells depicts a clothed Crucifixion figure in an attitude of prayer, without a nimbus, indicating antiquity.

    Read the passage

    scenes, as well as a wonderful variety of ornament. Here again Durrow and Kells vie with one another. The cross of Durrow is one of the finest still existing. Kells has portions of no less than five crosses, which are equally famous. Some of these crosses have beautiful interlaced ornament. Others have figures executed in bas relief. These latter have a special interest, for the subjects and the mode of treatment seem to point to Byzantine influence, and would lead us to believe that when, under the influence of the iconoclastic controversy, many artists were banished from the East, some of them must have found their way as far as Ireland. Anyone who compares the Byzantine ivories of the sixth, seventh, and eighth centuries, with the sculptures on crosses such as those of Kells, must come at once to the conclusion that both owed their inspiration to the same source.10 A curious peculiarity, well exemplified in the great cross of Kells, which points in the same direction, may here be noted. It is that when the Crucifixion is represented, the figure of Our Lord is clothed, and that the attitude is that of prayer and not of suffering. All this is in marked contrast to the modern crucifix. It may be noted, too, that no figure is ever depicted with a nimbus. Both of these points are manifest tokens of antiquity, and quite dispose of the contention recently urged by some English antiquaries that the Irish crosses are of later date than some which are to be found in the northern parts of the sister kingdom.

    A word may here be said about the purpose for which these crosses were erected. There can be little doubt that their use was to mark a sanctuary. At a

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Kells, in Meath, you are passing through a town that preserves portions of no less than five high crosses, as famous as any still standing in Ireland. Some of these crosses carry beautiful interlaced ornament. Others bear figures executed in bas relief, and these have a special interest. The subjects and the mode of treatment point to Byzantine influence. When the iconoclastic controversy drove many artists from the East, some of them may have found their way as far as Ireland. Anyone who compares the Byzantine ivories of the sixth, seventh, and eighth centuries with the sculptures on crosses such as those of Kells must come to the conclusion that both owed their inspiration to the same source. A curious peculiarity is well exemplified in the great cross of Kells. When the Crucifixion is represented, the figure of Our Lord is clothed, and the attitude is that of prayer, not of suffering. This is in marked contrast to the modern crucifix. No figure is ever depicted with a nimbus. Both of these points are manifest tokens of antiquity, and they dispose of the contention urged by some English antiquaries that the Irish crosses are of later date than some found in the northern parts of the sister kingdom. As for the purpose of these crosses, there can be little doubt that their use was to mark a sanctuary.

38. Bishop Dantsey accused of stealing a cup from Tara church

    Tara · parish · Meath · 1426–1427

    In 1426 Bishop Edward Dantsey was charged with stealing a cup worth thirteen shillings and four pence from the church of Tara; he was cleared before the Archbishop of Armagh in 1427, and the real culprit, John Pentony, later confessed and was forgiven.

    Read the passage

    from any conviction of the legality of his commission, but from the necessity of public affairs, and to prevent that damage and distress which might arise from a suspension of government."10 He summoned a parliament in 1423, but was shortly afterwards superseded in his office of deputy by the Earl of Ormond. A curious episode of his episcopate was the charge brought against him in 1426 of having stolen a cup, value thirteen shillings and four pence, out of the church of Tara. " The indictment was removed into parliament, and the bishop in his place stood up, and made protestation that he did not intend by any answer of his to violate the privileges of the church, but only to manifest his innocence, by declaring that he was not guilty of the felony whereof he was accused. On the loth September, 1427, he appeared before the Archbishop of Armagh, and was cleared. On the 3rd of December following, John Pentony, Esquire, made open confession to the bishop that he was guilty, and submitted himself to the bishop's mercy, who was good natured enough to forgive him, and turned him over to the archbishop for absolution."11

    Bishop Dantsey died in 1429, and shortly afterwards the clergy of Meath met and elected Thomas Scurlog, Prior of Saint Peter's, Newtown, to the vacant See, As he was already Lord High Treasurer, it is probable that he was the candidate favoured by the King. It would seem, however, that he failed to secure the support of the authorities at Rome. Either he was never consecrated, or he survived his consecration for a very short time. Thereupon the Pope, by provision, appointed William Hadsor — an appointment that was bitterly opposed by the Archbishop of Armagh. He only held the See for four years, and died in 1434.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 77

39. Death of St. Finian in the yellow plague of 548

    Clonard · town · Meath · 548

    In 548 the yellow plague swept through Ireland, killing many including St. Finian of Clonard. Popular belief held that his death, after which the plague abated, was a sacrifice that purchased exemption for the rest of the people.

    Read the passage

    In the year 548 a visitation of the pestilence known as the yellow plague raged through Ireland. It was the first time that it appeared in the country, and it carried off a great number of victims, including some of the most eminent men in the Church. Among them was Finian, and, as after his death the plague abated, the belief grew up that by the sacrifice of himself he had purchased exemption for the rest of » the people. " As Paul died in Rome for the sake of the Christian people, lest they should all suffer in the pains and punishments of hell, even so Finian died in Clonard for the sake of the people of the Gael, that they might not all perish of the Yellow Plague." 5

    The establishment at Clonard continued to exist down to the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion. It produced a long succession of men who were eminent in their day, but whose names now sound unfamiliar — such is the evanescent character of all human greatness. The annalists for the most part record for us simply their parentage and their decease. Sometimes, however, they give us small details that make us wish that they had not been so concise in all their statements, but had given us some particulars of the lives of

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 12

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Clonard, a town in Meath with an old and solemn claim on the memory of the country. In 548 the yellow plague appeared in Ireland for the first time and carried off a great number of victims, including some of the most eminent men in the Church. Among the dead was Finian of Clonard. After his death the plague abated, and the belief grew up that by the sacrifice of himself he had purchased exemption for the rest of the people. The old chronicle puts it in words that were remembered for centuries: as Paul died in Rome for the sake of the Christian people, even so Finian died in Clonard for the sake of the people of the Gael, that they might not all perish of the yellow plague. The establishment he founded at Clonard continued down to the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion and produced a long succession of eminent men whose names now sound unfamiliar.

40. Hugh de Lacy Seizes Durrow and Meets His Death

    Durrow · parish · Offaly

    Hugh de Lacy seized the Durrow monastic site upon the English arrival and built a castle there, and it was at this castle that he met his death.

    Read the passage

    Burrow was founded somewhere about the year 553, and after Columkill had left the country for lona, it was placed in charge of one Cormac. He was from Munster, and not being of the family of Columkill, was not acceptable to the inmates. He therefore remained but a short time, and his place was then taken by Laisren, who was first cousin of the saint. The establishment continued in more or less prosperity down to the time of the coming of the English. It was then seized on by Hugh de Lacy, who built a castle on the site, and it was there, as we shall see later, that he met his death.

    Kells is less frequently mentioned in early records ;

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 19

41. Miraculous crucifix at Ballyboggan priory burnt in 1538

    Ballyboggan · townland · Meath · 1538

    The priory of Ballyboggan, founded by Jordan Comin and dedicated to the Holy Trinity, housed a miraculous crucifix that attracted many pilgrims until it was publicly burnt in 1538.

    Read the passage

    branches of the Order charged themselves with the care of the sick, and several hospitals were established under their auspices. Although the Anglo-Normans first came to the country as late in the twelfth century as 1170, yet before the century closed they had already founded several Augustinian establishments in Meath. Among the earliest was that of Clonard, which was erected by Walter de Lacy, in 1175, on the site of the old Celtic monastery .7 In .the same neighbourhood — at Ballyboggan — another priory was founded by Jordon Comin, which was dedicated to the Holy Trinity, and was sometimes called the Priory de Laude Dei. There was here a miraculous crucifix, which used to attract great numbers of pilgrims. It was publicly burnt in 1538. 8 In this, as in most of the establishments founded by the Normans, no Irishman could be elected prior. In 1399 an attempt was made to appoint one John O'Mayller, but on appeal to the King he was dispossessed, and an Englishman, Richard Cuthbert, put in his place. 9

    The earliest adventurers, as we know, came directly from Wales and the English counties adjoining. After settling in Ireland, they did not forget their old home. Already, on an ancient Celtic site in Monmouthshire, where Saint David is said at one time to have had his cell, and where, according to another tradition, Saint Paul himself laboured, they had founded the Augustinian Priory of Llanthony. They now founded daughter monasteries, one at Colpe and another at Duleek,10 the inmates of which owed allegiance to the prior of Llanthony. Of Colpe no remains are preserved, and the site is now occupied by the Parish

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 46

42. Multifarnham Friary decried as Jesuit meeting-place

    Fearbranagh or Multyfarnham · townland · Westmeath · 1600

    A royal instruction of 1600 names Multifarnham friary as the chief assembly place for Jesuits plotting rebellion, and orders the Bishop of Meath to have it demolished or the friars expelled and the house converted to a garrison.

    Read the passage

    Likewise in the Diocese of Meath, which is the heart of the English Pale, there is suffered to stand untouched a' house of friars, named Multifarnham, the only place of assembly and conventicle of all the traitorous Jesuits of the realm, and where was the first conspiracy and plotting of this great rebellion. This of all the rest is most lamentable and worthy of reprehension in the bishop, for that the friars and all other Popish adversaries to her Majesty's government have their recourse and passage to and fro thither, in as open and public manner as if their idolatrous profession were justified by the authority of the clergy. That the Lord Deputy charge the Bishop of Meath in her Majesty's name to see how this house may be demolished, or at least the friars expelled, and the house converted to a place of garrison, or some other good use, and that the said bishop be charged to give over his former profane manner of life, and to give himself more to preaching, and travailing in the ways of his calling, to reform his diocese, which is wholly fallen away from God for want of good instruction ; and by these tolerances of idolatry the wrath of God is kindled against the whole realm, and will more and more increase, till her Majesty shall draw her clergy to a more feeling of their duty to God and her, and to a more Christian-like care to lead her people in the ways of truth and loyalty.7

    Bishop Jones wrote shortly after this a letter to Sir Robert Cecil, justifying himself, which is, a kind of reply to these accusations. It is stronger in general assertions than in any specific denial of the truth of the charges. We may, therefore, I fear, conclude, that there was some truth at all events, in what was said. The bishop writes : —

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 108

43. O'Rorke's headless body exposed on Dublin's walls

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1170–1180

    After being killed by De Lacy's men at the Hill of Ward, Tiernan O'Rorke's headless body was sent to Dublin and displayed on the city walls.

    Read the passage

    habits and disposition, he was firm and steadfast, as temperate as a Frenchman, very attentive to his own private affairs, and indefatigable in public business and the administration of the government committed to his charge. Although he had great experience in military affairs, as a commander he had no great success in the expeditions which he undertook. After he lost his wife he abandoned himself to loose habits, and not being contented with one mistress, his amours were promiscuous. He was very covetous and ambitious, and immoderately greedy of honour and reputation." Such was the man who now, with almost undisputed sway, took over the government of Meath. He had only one rival. This was Tiernan O'Rorke, who still claimed jurisdiction over those districts in Meath which had been granted to him under King Roderic. De Lacy did not altogether deny his claim, but suggested that a friendly conference should be held, at which the limits of the territory of both should be strictly denned. Accordingly it was arranged that the two should meet at the Hill of Ward, near Athboy, and it was stipulated that both should come unarmed, so that there could be no breach of. the peace. That neither party trusted the other is shown by the fact that they had posted supporters at convenient distances. As to what followed, both parties accuse the other of treachery. On the one side it is asserted that O'Rorke produced a battle axe from beneath his robe and attacked De Lacy ; 3 and on the other side it is alleged that O'Rorke was " treacherously slain." 4 However it was, O'Rorke was killed by the followers of De Lacy, and his headless body sent to Dublin and exposed on the walls. Thus the last competitor was

    * Giraldus.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 34

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Dublin, its old city walls once held a grim sight. Tiernan O'Rorke, who claimed lands in Meath granted under King Roderic, was the only rival left against Hugh De Lacy's rule there. De Lacy did not altogether deny the claim, and suggested a friendly conference to define each man's territory. They arranged to meet at the Hill of Ward, near Athboy, both coming unarmed so there could be no breach of the peace. Neither party trusted the other, and both posted supporters at convenient distances. What followed depends on who tells it. One side says O'Rorke produced a battle axe from beneath his robe and attacked De Lacy. The other says he was "treacherously slain." However it happened, O'Rorke was killed by De Lacy's followers, and his headless body was sent to the city and exposed on the walls. De Lacy, who took over Meath with almost undisputed sway, was described as firm and steadfast, very attentive to his own affairs and indefatigable in public business. After he lost his wife he abandoned himself to loose habits, and was covetous and ambitious, immoderately greedy of honour and reputation.

44. Priest confronts Rev. John Ankers in Kilkenny West church

    Kilkenny West · townland · Westmeath

    John Ankers, incumbent of several Westmeath parishes, reported that on going to read prayers at Kilkenny in Westmeath he found an old priest with about forty followers in the church, who demanded that Ankers leave until he had finished his business.

    Read the passage

    Two occurrences which happened in the diocese of Meath at this time no doubt helped to whet the bishop's zeal. One was the case of Mr. John Ankers, who had spiritual oversight of a large tract of country in Westmeath, being incumbent of the parishes of Drumraney, Bally loughloe, Kilcleagh, Athlone, and Clonmacnoise. This clergyman wrote to the bishop, ' That going to read prayers at Kilkenny in Westmeath, he found an old priest, and about forty with him in the church, who was so bold as to require him (the said Ankers) to depart, until he had done his business." The other was the case of the monks of Multifarnham, who had been dispossessed by the Lord Deputy, but who, not content with returning contrary to his orders, were actually making collections " for the re-edifying of another abbey near Mullingar, for the entertaining of another swarm of locusts." 6

    Shortly after this, Lord Falkland came over as Lord Deputy, and on the day that he received the sword there was service in Christ Church Cathedral, at which Bishop Ussher preached. He took for his text the words in the thirteenth chapter of Romans. " He beareth not the sword in vain," and took the opportunity of speaking out his mind on the subject of the administration of the law. In a letter to Lord Grandison, Ussher gives a resume of the sermon, and says that in the latter part, " falling upon the duty of the magistrates in seeing those laws executed that were made for the furtherance of God's service, I first declared that no more was to be expected herein from the subordinate magistrate than he had received in commission from the supreme, in whose power it

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 122

45. St. Kenan and the founding of Duleek church

    Duleek · town · Meath

    St. Kenan, founder of Duleek, was one of Patrick's first converts and had originally sold Patrick to shippers for two copper cauldrons. His church at Duleek is reputed to be the first stone building erected in Ireland.

    Read the passage

    His church at Duleek is reputed to have been the first stone building erected in Ireland, " for before that time the churches of Ireland were built of wattles and boards." 8 In the Book of Armagh it is said that the church of Duleek was the eighth which Patrick erected in the plains of Meath.9 It is also stated in the Annals of Tighernach that Patrick presented Kenan with a copy of the Gospels, evidently a valuable possession in those days.

    Another of Saint Patrick's early converts was Saint Ere of Slane. We have already seen how he, alone amongst the retinue of the king, did honour to Patrick by rising up at his approach. It will also be noted that he is mentioned with Patrick and Cairnech as one of the nine pillars of the Senchus Mor, or great book of laws. He was in his day a famous Brehon, and in the account of the " family " of Saint Patrick, given by the Four Masters, he is spoken of as " his sweet spoken judge." In recording his death, also, they tell us that, in the age of Christ 512, " Saint Ere, Bishop of Lilcach (a place not identified) and of Fearta-fear-Feig (Slane), by the side of Sidhe-Truim to the west, died on the second day of the month of November. His age was fourscore and ten years when he departed. This Bishop Ere was judge to Patrick. It was for him that Patrick composed this quatrain :

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 9

46. Trim Repeatedly Fought Over During the Rebellion

    Trim · town · Meath · 1641–1642

    Trim was taken by the rebels at the outbreak of the war but was recovered by Sir Charles Coote in 1642; shortly afterwards it was attacked again, and though the attack was repulsed, Coote himself was killed, it is not known whether by the enemy or one of his own troopers.

    Read the passage

    deliverers. Trim was again and again the scene of conflict. It was taken by the rebels at the first outbreak of the war, but was recovered by Sir Charles Coote in 1642. Shortly afterwards it was again attacked. The attack was repulsed, but Sir Charles lost his life, shot it is not known whether by the enemy or by one of his own troopers. After this it became a base from which parties went out to " spoil and kill " the rebels, but it did not prevent them from taking the castles of Killalon, Balrath, Ballybeg, Bective, Balsoon, and Ardsallagh. Athboy also was besieged by the insurgents, but they were forced to raise the siege. In Westmeath, the towns of Mullingar and Ballymore were burned, and there was an engagement at Rathconnell. These were the most important events, but independently of them there was continual going to and fro of bodies of rebels or of soldiers, rendering life and property insecure all through the diocese.

    The most important engagement of all took place at Dungon's Hill, near Laracor, in 1647. The following description of the fight is taken from the Down Survey : " On the 8th of August, 1647, being the Lord's Day, happened a very greate battaile betweene the English and the Irish. Collonell Michaell Jones commanded the English, and one, General Preston, the Irish. The advantages that the Irish had were as many as men could have against men. Theire ground was high, theire artillery ready planted, theire men ready drawen up in battallia, immured with mudd walles, the sunn and winde in theire reare, two woods and a large bogg through which the English must march if they intended to fight. The English in a marching motion, and had not roome to drawe upp. But it pleased the Almighty Disposer of all things to magnify Himselfe

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 136

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Trim now, in Meath. This town was fought over again and again during the rebellion that broke out in 1641. The rebels took it at the first outbreak of the war, but Sir Charles Coote recovered it in 1642. Shortly afterwards it was attacked again. That attack was repulsed, but Sir Charles lost his life, shot, and it is not known whether by the enemy or by one of his own troopers. After this, Trim became a base from which parties went out to, as the source puts it, "spoil and kill" the rebels. But this did not stop the rebels from taking the castles of Killalon, Balrath, Ballybeg, Bective, Balsoon, and Ardsallagh. Athboy was also besieged by the insurgents, but they were forced to raise the siege. In Westmeath, the towns of Mullingar and Ballymore were burned, and there was an engagement at Rathconnell. Beyond these events, there was continual going to and fro of bodies of rebels or soldiers, rendering life and property insecure all through the diocese. The most important engagement of all came later, at Dungon's Hill, near Laracor, in 1647. The Down Survey describes it. On the 8th of August, 1647, being the Lord's Day, a great battle took place between the English and the Irish. Colonel Michael Jones commanded the English, and General Preston the Irish. The Irish had every advantage men could have. Their ground was high, their artillery ready planted, their men drawn up in battle, immured with mud walls, the sun and wind at their rear, two woods and a large bog through which the English must march if they intended to fight. The English were in marching motion and had not room to draw up. But it pleased the Almighty Disposer of all things to magnify Himself.

47. 1136 sack of Clonard and theft of St. Finian's sword

    Clonard · town · Meath · 1136

    In 1136 the inhabitants of the Brenny plundered and sacked Clonard, stripping O'Daly, chief poet of Ireland, naked, and sacrilegiously stealing a sword belonging to St. Finian from the abbey vestry.

    Read the passage

    The community at Clonard had also their times of trouble. From the middle of the eighth century down to the end of the twelfth it was often desolated by hostile troops, sometimes belonging to the native Irish, and sometimes to the foreigners, who were beginning to form settlements in the country. It was burned in 746, again in 784, and yet again in 794. In 840 it was pillaged by the Danes, who came again with their unwelcome attentions in 887. In 1045 it was burned three times in the one week, so that the whole town with its churches was destroyed. In 1136 " the inhabitants of the Brenny plundered and sacked Clonard, and behaved in so shameless a manner as to strip O'Daly, then chief poet of Ireland, even to his skin, and leave him in that situation ; and, amongst other outrages, they

    22 HISTORY OF THE DIOCESE OF MEATH

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 13

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming up to Clonard in Meath. This was a monastery town that knew trouble for centuries. It was burned in 746, again in 784, and again in 794. The Danes pillaged it in 840 and came back in 887. In 1045 it was burned three times in one week. But the most shameful episode came in 1136, when the inhabitants of the Brenny plundered and sacked Clonard. They stripped O'Daly, then chief poet of Ireland, even to his skin and left him in that situation. Among their other outrages, they stole a sword belonging to St. Finian from the abbey vestry. The community here had its churches destroyed, its scholars humiliated, and its relics carried off, over and again, from the eighth century down to the twelfth.

48. The Book of Kells and Book of Durrow as Treasures

    Kells · town · Meath

    Both Kells and Durrow are famous for remains of ancient Irish art; the Book of Kells is a great treasure of the University library, and the Book of Durrow nearly equals it in value and beauty, bearing a Latin inscription naming Columba as its writer.

    Read the passage

    Both Kells and Burrow are famous for their remains of ancient Irish art. The Book of Kells is perhaps the greatest treasure in the library of our University, and the Book of Durrow nearly approaches it in value and beauty. The latter has an inscription in Latin on the back of the twelfth folio, which may be translated : " I pray thy blessedness, O holy presbyter, Patrick, that whosoever shall take this book into his hand may remember the writer, Columba, who have myself written this Gospel in the space of twelve days by the

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    You're passing through Kells, a town famous for remains of ancient Irish art. The Book of Kells that bears its name is perhaps the greatest treasure in the library of the University, and the Book of Durrow nearly equals it in value and beauty. The Book of Durrow carries a Latin inscription on the back of the twelfth folio, which may be translated: "I pray thy blessedness, O holy presbyter, Patrick, that whosoever shall take this book into his hand may remember the writer, Columba." The inscription says Columba wrote the Gospel himself in the space of twelve days.

49. Alexander Sharp of Trubly robbed and threatened

    Trubley · townland · Meath · 1641

    Alexander Sharp, minister of Trubly, was robbed of all he possessed and threatened by rebels who said they would pull the skin from his flesh unless he confessed moneys. He fled to Dublin with four children, leaving his wife and five young children with the rebels.

    Read the passage

    A namesake of his, and probably a relative, Alexander Sharp, the minister of Trubly, was robbed of all that he possessed. In his deposition he says that, " the rebels threatened that if they could catch him, they would pull his skin from his flesh, and his flesh from his bones, till they made him confesse moneys unto them, for they would use him worse than those whom they hanged and butchered at Trim. Whereupon he repayred to Dublin, with four of his children, who were only able to travaile along with him, but was compelled to leave his wyfe and fyve young children under the hands of the rebells, and knoweth not what is become of them as yet."

    The case of Mr. William Metcalfe, the Vicar of Syddan, was equally hard. In his depositions he tells how he was " robbed by the rebells about a fortnight after the insurrection broke out. He was imprisoned with his wife and eight children and three of his grandchildren in the castle of Syddan for nine months or thereabouts, where they were with scarcity and very meane food ; but, especially by God's great bounty and goodness, kept alive, and then at length were enlarged by Lord More and the English army. They, the said rebells, gave him several blows with a cudgel, which made him ly long in his bedd ; and compelled him to goe with them to a thorne bushe, where they threatened, but did not, hang him. They slew as many of the Protestants (neither sparing sex nor age) as they possibly could, and among the rest, the parish clerk of Ardee, slain in his own house. They forcibly brought deponent into the grave-yard at Siddan, to show them where, and how many, English were there buried for xxty yeares then last

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 133

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Trubley, in 1641, rebels robbed Alexander Sharp, the minister here, of all he possessed. The record names him as a namesake and probably a relative of another Alexander Sharp. In his deposition he says the rebels threatened that if they could catch him, they would, in his words, "pull his skin from his flesh, and his flesh from his bones, till they made him confesse moneys unto them, for they would use him worse than those whom they hanged and butchered at Trim." He fled to Dublin with four of his children, who were only able to travel along with him. He was compelled to leave his wife and five young children under the hands of the rebels, and did not know what had become of them. The record then turns to William Metcalfe, the Vicar of Syddan, whose case was equally hard. He was robbed by the rebels about a fortnight after the insurrection broke out. He was imprisoned with his wife and eight children and three grandchildren in the castle of Syddan for nine months, kept alive on scarce and mean food, until Lord More and the English army set them free. The rebels gave him several blows with a cudgel, which made him lie long in his bed, and compelled him to go with them to a thorn bush, where they threatened but did not hang him. They slew as many Protestants as they could, neither sparing sex nor age, and among the rest killed the parish clerk of Ardee in his own house. They brought Metcalfe into the graveyard at Syddan to show them where and how many English were buried there for twenty years past.

50. Bishop seizes Isabella de Beaufo at Clonard castle

    Clonard · town · Meath · 1245

    In 1245 Bishop Richard de la Corner was accused of seizing Isabella de Beaufo at her castle of Clonard while she was non compos mentis, carrying her away at night, dispossessing her of the castle and installing his own bailiffs there.

    Read the passage

    that year he is accused of having " seized in her castle of Clonard, Isabella de Beaufo, when non compos mentis, carried her away at night, detained her in his custody, dispossessed her of her castle, and placed his own bailiffs there." 9 This incident gives us some idea of what tremendous power the bishops then possessed, and how they united the position of great feudal lords with the more spiritual jurisdiction that belonged of right to their office.

    We have another instance of high-handed action in the report of a lawsuit touching the advowson of the parish of Gal trim, which was heard in the year 1289. It appears that Hugh of Galtrim was patron of the living, and William de la Corner (of the same family as the bishop just mentioned) was rector. William was raised to the episcopate (it does not appear for what diocese), and the parish thus becoming vacant, Walter Hosee, Hugh's uncle, appointed Philip le Norman to the vacant benefice. But this Walter had some time previously been excommunicated for a crime which he had committed, and as the price of absolution it was proposed that this church should be given over into the bishop's hands. The negotiations were, however, unduly prolonged, and in the meantime Walter was killed at Fytherath. The bishop was not to be baulked of his purpose, and so he refused to allow the dead man to be buried until Lucy, wife of Walter Hosee, had given up the keys of his coffers. Then, searching in the coffers, he found Walter's seal, drew up a deed touching the advowson, and put the seal to it. He followed this up by ejecting the newly appointed parson out of his church. In the end, however, he failed in his design, for the jury which tried the case gave a verdict against him, and awarded fifty marks

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 69

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Clonard, in Meath. In 1245 this town was the setting for an act of extraordinary power by a bishop. Richard de la Corner, Bishop of Meath, was accused of seizing Isabella de Beaufo in her castle here at Clonard. She was, the record says, non compos mentis, not of sound mind. He carried her away at night, held her in his custody, stripped her of the castle, and installed his own bailiffs in it. The source notes that this incident shows what tremendous power bishops possessed at that time, how they held the position of great feudal lords alongside the spiritual authority that belonged to their office. A bishop who could take a woman from her own castle in the dark, lock her away, and seize the property for himself was acting as a feudal lord first and a churchman second. The accusation was recorded, though the record does not tell us what came of it, whether Isabella recovered her castle or her freedom, or whether the bishop faced any reckoning for what he had done.

51. Bishop Staples preaches reformed religion at Navan amid hostility

    Navan · town · Meath · 1548

    Bishop Staples attempted to preach the reformed religion at Navan despite widespread hatred and threats against him, including being warned he might be killed by the country if they knew how. He insisted on preaching there regardless of the danger.

    Read the passage

    to myself, for he feared more than he durst tell me. He said, " You have more curses than you have hairs of your head, and I advise you, for Christ's sake, not to preach at the Navan, as I hear you will do." I said it was my charge to preach, and because there was most resort (God willing), I would not fail but preach there. Hereby you may perceive what case I am in. But put all to God ; and now, as my especial friend, and a man to whom my heart beareth earnest affection, I beseech you for your advice. As God shall judge me, I am afraid of my life divers ways. This bearer shall show you certain instructions. Let him write your advice, not writing your name for chance.3

    Nor was these the only troubles that beset Bishop Staples. He found, as so many found in those days, that King Henry was an uncertain friend. We have already seen how in 1537 that monarch censured him for neglect of his ecclesiastical duties. In 1539 we find him again in trouble, and being obliged to use all the influence of his friends to extricate himself. We note, too, how in several of his letters to Cromwell there is the intimation that a small present is enclosed — a point which needs no comment, but which sheds an unpleasant light on the state of public morals at the time. Certainly, the position of Bishop of Meath was not an enviable one in those days. Nevertheless Staples managed in several ways to enrich himself. He obtained permission from time to time to alienate portion of the property of the See, which meant of course in each case a money payment to himself, though the permanent income was thereby impoverished. He was also authorized by Henry VIII., as we have seen, to annex the Archdeaconry of Kells, which dignity had remained to his days, an interesting reminiscence of the time when Kells was a separate See. It may be further noted that, following the example

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 92

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Navan now, in County Meath. Back in 1548, this town was where Bishop Staples insisted on preaching the reformed religion, despite being warned plainly that he should not. A man close to him said he had more curses than he had hairs on his head, and advised him, for Christ's sake, not to preach at the Navan. Staples answered that it was his charge to preach, and because there was most resort there, he would not fail to do it. He wrote to a friend that he was afraid of his life divers ways, and asked for advice, telling the bearer to write the reply without a name, for safety. His troubles went deeper than Navan. King Henry had censured him in 1537 for neglect of his ecclesiastical duties, and in 1539 he needed all his friends' influence to extricate himself. Some of his letters to Cromwell enclosed a small present, which the record notes sheds an unpleasant light on public morals at the time. He also obtained permission to alienate property of the See for money payments to himself, and was authorized by Henry the Eighth to annex the Archdeaconry of Kells. The position of Bishop of Meath was not an enviable one in those days.

52. Bishop William Sherwood's feud with the Earl of Desmond

    Meath · county · Meath · 1460–1463

    Bishop William Sherwood, a statesman-bishop and later Lord Chancellor, developed bitter hostility with Thomas, Earl of Desmond, appointed Lord Deputy in 1463, amid Meath's devastation by attacks from Breffny and Oriel; a brawl among Desmond's followers left nine dead and the bishop was blamed as instigator.

    Read the passage

    The next bishop was William Sherwood, who obtained a provisional bull from the Pope in 1460. He was, like so many others, a statesman bishop, and was for a time Deputy to George, Duke of Clarence, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. He afterwards became Lord Chancellor. In 1463, Thomas, Earl of Desmond, was named Lord Deputy, but incurred almost at once the bitter hostility of the Bishop of Meath. Possibly this may have arisen from jealousy, or possibly from the fact that Meath was at the time devastated by repeated attacks from the men of Breffny and Oriel, without any adequate effort being made on the part of the deputy to oppose them. A brawl occurred among some of Desmond's followers, in which nine lives were lost. The bishop was denounced as the instigator of this quarrel. This led to further recrimination, and the mutual enmity reached such a height that both parties went over to England, and

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 77

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Meath, this is the county where Bishop William Sherwood held power from 1460. He was a statesman bishop who served as Deputy to George, Duke of Clarence, and later became Lord Chancellor. In 1463 Thomas, Earl of Desmond, was named Lord Deputy, but almost immediately drew the bitter hostility of the Bishop of Meath. The enmity may have sprung from jealousy, or from the fact that Meath was being devastated by repeated attacks from the men of Breffny and Oriel, with no adequate effort from the deputy to oppose them. A brawl broke out among Desmond's followers in which nine lives were lost, and the bishop was denounced as the instigator. The recriminations grew so fierce that both men crossed to England to press their cases.

53. Clonmacnoise plundered by the English of Athlone in 1552

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 1552

    In 1552 Clonmacnoise was plundered and devastated by the English of Athlone; the large bells were taken from the round tower, and every image, altar, book, gem and even window glass was carried off.

    Read the passage

    who held the office of dean, and was killed in battle in 1539. After that, troublous times came for the old ecclesiastical city. A storm, in 1547, blew down the " two western wings of the cathedral." Five years later, the whole place was " reformed " by the drastic means that were then so common. This is the account, as given by the Four Masters, and it needs no enlargement, " Clonmacnoise was plundered and devastated by the English of Athlone, and the large bells were taken from the round tower. There was not left, moreover, a bell, small or large, an image, or an altar, or a book, or a gem, or even a glass in a window, which was not carried off. Lamentable was this deed, the plundering of the city of Keiran the holy patron."

    This was in 1552, the last year of King Edward VI. The bishop at the time was Flan Gerawan, who had been appointed by provision of the Pope in 1539, but had two years later taken the oath of allegiance to Henry VIII., which implied the acknowledgment of the royal supremacy. He continued as bishop under Queen Mary, and died in 1554. He was succeeded by Peter Wall, who had professed Protestantism under Edward, but now made his peace with the church, and was " absolved from all censures which he had incurred." He continued to hold the See under Queen Elizabeth, and evidently adapted himself once more to the changed order of things, for he was presented by the Queen to the benefice of Ballyloughloe in 1560, which he held in commendam with his bishopric. He died in 1568, and the See was then united to that of Meath, which union continues to the present day.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 81

54. De Lacy remembered as destroyer of churches despite building abbeys

    Meath · county · Meath · 1186

    Although Hugh de Lacy built abbeys and churches throughout Meath, the Irish annalists recorded his death by calling him not a founder but a profaner and destroyer of many churches.

    Read the passage

    Though the change was effected without battle or bloodshed, it constituted a veritable revolution. It meant the destruction, as far as it was possible, of everything that was Celtic, and the transformation of Meath into an English county. Henceforth, amid all the changes and vicissitudes of succeeding years, Meath never ceased to belong to the " Pale," but continued to be one of the strongholds of the British government. Whatever communities of Celtic monks continued were soon dispersed, their property was confiscated, their lowly dwellings and churches were destroyed, and new buildings, of grander proportions, but of foreign design, took their place. De Lacy built abbeys and churches all over the district ; yet, when recording his death, the Irish annalists only remember his deeds of spoliation, and speak of him, not as the founder, but as " the profaner and destroyer of many churches." 6 His castles served as strongholds for himself and his retainers ; and the abbeys that sprang up beside them were, like the castles, the outward manifestation of the advent of a new order of things.

    The abbeys that were thus founded grew rich at the expense of the Church. One of the favourite ways of endowing an abbey was to " appropriate " to it a

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Meath, you are passing through a county that was transformed in the years after the Normans arrived. Hugh de Lacy built abbeys and churches all over this district, and his castles stood as strongholds for himself and his retainers. The abbeys that sprang up beside the castles were the outward sign of a new order. Whatever communities of Celtic monks had continued were soon dispersed, their property confiscated, their dwellings and churches destroyed, and new buildings of grander proportions but foreign design took their place. Yet when the Irish annalists recorded his death in 1186, they did not call him a founder. They spoke of him as what the source calls "the profaner and destroyer of many churches." The change was effected without battle or bloodshed, but it meant the destruction, as far as was possible, of everything that was Celtic, and the transformation of Meath into an English county. Henceforth Meath never ceased to belong to the Pale, and continued to be one of the strongholds of the British government. The abbeys that were founded grew rich at the expense of the Church.

55. Dispute over the body of Rosina de Verdon between Trim and Tristernagh

    Tristernagh · townland · Westmeath · 1317

    In 1317 there was a legal dispute between the monks of Trim and those of Tristernagh over the body of Rosina de Verdon, who had willed herself to Trim but was instead buried at Tristernagh, whose prior refused to relinquish her.

    Read the passage

    It has been already mentioned that the monastery at Tristernach had the privileges of a " free churchyard." It may throw some light on the meaning of this if it be mentioned that in 1317 there was a suit between the brethren of Trim and those of Tristernach for the possession of the bodyofRosina de Verdon.21 She had bequeathed herself to Trim, but by some means or another, it happened that she was buried at Tristernach, and the prior of this latter place refused to give up his prize. The matter was referred to ihe Pope, but how the dispute was at length settled is not recorded. The possession of the body carried

    30 Butler's Trim Castle (quoted from Patent Rolls). at Calendar of Papal Registers.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 48

56. Dopping appeals to King James over Rosen's siege stratagem at Derry

    near Derry · city · Derry · 1689

    During the siege of Derry, General Rosen gathered Protestants from surrounding districts to leave them exposed under the city walls; Bishop of Meath went to King James to plead for an end to this, and the King said he had already ordered it stopped.

    Read the passage

    districts, leaving them to suffer in sight of their friends who were defending the walls. " The news of this order came to Dublin before it was executed, and the Bishop of Meath went immediately to King James to see if he could prevail with him to prevent such a barbarous proceeding. His Majesty very calmly told the bishop that he had heard of it before, and that he had sent orders to stop it ; that General Rosen was a foreigner, and used to such proceedings as were strange to us, though common in other places, and that if he had been his own subject he would have called him to account for it." 6 Thus it will be seen that in times of trial our bishop stuck manfully to his post, and did all that was in his power to mitigate the horrors of that time of adversity.

    The churches of Meath were now either wrecked by the mob or given over to the Roman Catholic priests. The details of this destruction have in some cases come down to us, and a few examples may be given. At Lynally, William Sheill, a Roman Catholic priest, came demanding the keys of the church. When these were denied him, he went with a dragoon and broke in the door, and took possession of the building, saying Mass in it on the following Sunday. In Ballyboy also the priest took possession of the church. At Athlone, while the service was being held, a body of about one hundred soldiers broke in, crying, " Come out, you rebels, and we will tear you in pieces." They ridiculed the service, and threw stones at the congregation. The next Sunday they put cattle into the church, and shortly afterwards the priest got an order for possession of the edifice from Major General Sarsfield, and used the building for the celebration of Mass. Ardnurcher Church was also taken by the

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 153

57. Drunken Reading of the 1629 Anti-Catholic Proclamation at Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1629

    A royal proclamation of 1 April 1629 against Catholic clergy was read aloud at Drogheda in a scornful manner, first by a drunken soldier and then by a drunken sergeant of the town, turning the solemn decree into what was described as a 'May-game'.

    Read the passage

    This was severe enough, and if carried out would have abolished the exercise of Roman Catholic worship all through the country. But the Proclamation was regarded by those against whom it was directed as nothing more than a huge joke. The Lord Deputy gives an account of how it was published and observed. He says, " I have received information, both of the unreverend manner of publishing the late proclamation at Drogheda, and the ill observance of the same since it was published. For the first, that it was done in scornful and contemptuous sort, a drunken soldier being first set up to read it, and then a drunken Serjeant of the town ; both being made, by too much drink, uncapable of that task (and perhaps purposely put to it,) made the same seem like a May-game. And for the latter, that there is yet very little obedience showed thereto by the friars and priests ; only that they have shut up the fore-doors of some of their mass-houses, but have as ordinary recourse thither by their private passages, and do as frequently use their superstitious service there, as if there were no command to the contrary : those mass-houses being continued in their

    262 HISTORY OF THE DIOCESE OF MEATH

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Drogheda now. In 1629, a royal proclamation against Catholic clergy was read aloud here, and it turned into something nobody intended. The proclamation of the 1st of April that year would have abolished the exercise of Roman Catholic worship all through the country, if it had been carried out. But those it was aimed at regarded it as nothing more than a huge joke. The Lord Deputy himself gave an account of how it was published here. He said he had received information both of the unreverend manner of publishing the proclamation at Drogheda, and the ill observance of it since. It was done, he said, in a scornful and contemptuous sort. A drunken soldier was first set up to read it, and then a drunken sergeant of the town. Both, made by too much drink uncapable of that task, and perhaps purposely put to it, “made the same seem like a May-game.” Afterward, the friars and priests showed very little obedience. They shut the front doors of some of their mass-houses but kept going in by private passages, and carried on their services as if there were no command to the contrary.

58. James Lean imprisoned for running an unlicensed school in Navan

    Navan · town · Meath · 1686

    In 1686 James Lean, a Roman Catholic, opened a school in Navan without a licence, and Bishop Dopping committed him to prison for three months for the offence. Lean later sued the bishop for false imprisonment, and Dopping avoided defeat only by paying damages.

    Read the passage

    for little in presence of the strong opposition with which he had to contend. Besides, whatever he might do to prevent injurious laws from being passed, he was quite powerless to secure a strict administration of the law as it stood, and it was in the administration of the law that the Protestants complained most of oppression. When their houses were robbed or their persons molested, they had no redress, for the judges and juries were slow to convict. Possibly the bishop was not always as judicious as he might have been. We have already seen how he dealt with a dissenting preacher at Summerhill, and we know from that how he, with all his courtesy and real kindness of heart, was disposed to enforce oppressive laws to the utmost, even at a time when such laws were regarded with great disfavour by his own co-religionists. We have another instance of the same disposition in his treatment of the case of one James Lean, a Roman Catholic, who in 1686 opened a school in Navan without licence. Dopping committed him to prison for three months for this offence.2 We have few particulars, but this, on the face of it, seems to have been rather a highhanded proceeding. At all events, Lean, on his release from prison, took an action against the bishop for false imprisonment, and the latter only escaped defeat in a court of law by paying a sum of money as damages to the aggrieved school-master.

    Acts such as these may have been countenanced by the law of the land, but they were exceedingly injudicious— to use no stronger term — at a time when the country was in a ferment and when the power which the bishop used so arbitrarily was slipping from his grasp. It was not the course of conduct that would secure favourable consideration for the rights of the

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 150

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Navan in Meath. Back in 1686, this town was the setting for a small but telling clash between a bishop and a schoolmaster. James Lean, a Roman Catholic, opened a school here without a licence. Bishop Dopping had him committed to prison for three months for the offence. The book calls this a high-handed proceeding, on the face of it, and Lean clearly agreed. On his release from prison he took an action against the bishop for false imprisonment. Dopping only escaped defeat in a court of law by paying a sum of money as damages to the aggrieved schoolmaster. The writer notes that Dopping, with all his courtesy and real kindness of heart, was disposed to enforce oppressive laws to the utmost, even at a time when such laws were regarded with great disfavour by his own co-religionists. There is a parallel case mentioned, a dissenting preacher at Summerhill, dealt with in the same spirit. The broader point the book makes is that acts such as these may have been countenanced by the law of the land, but they were exceedingly injudicious, to use no stronger term. The country was in a ferment, and the power which the bishop used so arbitrarily was slipping from his grasp. It was not the course of conduct that would secure favourable consideration for the rights of the church he served.

59. Multifarnham Abbey Survives the Dissolution

    Fearbranagh or Multyfarnham · townland · Westmeath · 1306–1641

    The abbey of Multifarnham was founded in 1306 by the Delameres and rose to considerable importance. Through the connivance of the barons of Delvin it continued to be held by monks long after the dissolution, becoming a place of refuge for friars, but it also became a centre of disaffection and a base for operations of the 1641 rebellion. Some remains of the abbey still exist in fairly good preservation.

    Read the passage

    The Franciscans were, like the Dominicans, a preaching Order, and with them our account of the Anglo-Norman abbeys ends. Their first establishment in Meath was probably the Grey Friary of Trim, which was founded, some say by King John, while others ascribe it to the Plunkett family. It occupied the site on which the Court House stands at present .4 5 The abbey of Multifarnham was founded in 1306 by the Delameres. It soon rose to considerable importance. It is chiefly remarkable, however, for having been almost the last of the Irish abbeys, for by the connivance of the barons of Delvin it continued to be held by the monks long after the dissolution. Father Hugh Ward, who wrote a history of the Order, says of it that " it never was more flourishing than since the beginning of the persecution, and the spread of heresy, for not only was it a place of refuge to the old and infirm friars of the province, but was as it were an ark in the deluge of persecution, for from its first foundation it never was deserted for any length of time by the religious."46 Unfortunately, it became also a great centre of disaffection, and was the principal place from which operations of the rebellion of 1641 were conducted. There still exist some remains of the old abbey, and in fairly good preservation.

    The last Meath abbey to be founded was the Franciscan monastery of Slane, erected in 1512 by Christopher Fleming,47 Baron of Slane, and Catherine Preston his wife. The ruins still crown the hill, and form a conspicuous feature in the landscape.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 56

60. Murder of curate John Sharp near Kells

    Kells · town · Meath · 1641

    John Sharp, curate of Kells, attempted to flee to Dublin for succour but was caught by insurgents and left grievously wounded. He was later found by another company of rebels who cruelly and wilfully murdered him where they found him.

    Read the passage

    the rebels, who " cruelly and wilfully murdered him in the place where they found him."

    A namesake of his, and probably a relative, Alexander Sharp, the minister of Trubly, was robbed of all that he possessed. In his deposition he says that, " the rebels threatened that if they could catch him, they would pull his skin from his flesh, and his flesh from his bones, till they made him confesse moneys unto them, for they would use him worse than those whom they hanged and butchered at Trim. Whereupon he repayred to Dublin, with four of his children, who were only able to travaile along with him, but was compelled to leave his wyfe and fyve young children under the hands of the rebells, and knoweth not what is become of them as yet."

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 133

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kells in Meath, this is where John Sharp, curate of Kells, met his end in 1641. He tried to flee toward Dublin for help but was caught by insurgents and left grievously wounded. A second company of rebels then found him and, as the record says, they "cruelly and wilfully murdered him in the place where they found him." A namesake and likely relative, Alexander Sharp, minister of Trubly, was also robbed of everything. The rebels threatened to pull his skin from his flesh and his flesh from his bones until he confessed where his money was. He escaped to Dublin with four of his children but had to leave his wife and five young children behind, and did not know what had become of them.