Name: History of the Diocese of Meath (vol. 1)
Author: John Healy (1841–1918)

Petition of poor Meath clerks for benefices amid plague and war

Meath · county · Meath · 1363

In 1363 a document was presented to the Pope noting a lack of clerks due to pestilence and wars, with three petitioners from the Diocese of Meath—Thomas Feogy, Walter Valysch and Nicholas Venderal—seeking benefices despite having no scholastic degrees, as Ireland lacked any university.

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dead was immediately affected and died, and the penitent and the confessor were carried together to the grave." 4 In connection with this, we have a curious document which was presented to the Pope in the year 1363. It sets forth that " whereas by reason of pestilence and wars in those parts, there is a great lack of clerks, and the value of benefices is small, the Pope is prayed to expedite the petitions for the underwritten persons, inasmuch as this is the first roll he has received from them, and he must not be surprised that the persons have no scholastic degrees, inasmuch as in Ireland there is no university or place of study ; nevertheless, the persons are not afraid of being rejected on examination, and the Pope is informed that the churches of Ireland are not otherwise burdened by papal provisions, especially as the petitioners are from the ends of the earth." s There are nineteen signatures to this extraordinary document, three of which are from the Diocese of Meath. Thomas Feogy asks for a benefice in the gift of the Bishop of Meath, value eighty gold florins with cure of souls, or forty without ; Walter Valysch makes a similar request ; and Nicholas Venderal, a poor clerk of the Diocese of Meath, asks for a benefice in the gift of the Archbishop and Chapter of Dublin, value eighty gold florins. The willingness of the petitioners to accept an income of forty gold florins, provided there were no duties attached to it, is refreshing in its naive simplicity. The Pope granted the petition, but we have no means of knowing whether the Bishop of Meath was equally complaisant.
Nicholas Allen died in 1366. His successor was not appointed until 1369. In that year the Pope translated

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Meath, you are passing through a county that in 1363 was so short of clerks that a petition went to the Pope. Pestilence and war had emptied the churches, and the document warned that the petitioners had no scholastic degrees, because Ireland had no university. Three of the nineteen signatories came from the Diocese of Meath. Thomas Feogy asked for a benefice in the gift of the Bishop of Meath, worth 80 gold florins with cure of souls, or 40 without. Walter Valysch made a similar request. Nicholas Venderal, described as a poor clerk of the diocese, sought a benefice worth 80 gold florins from the Archbishop and Chapter of Dublin. The petition called its signatories people from the ends of the earth. The Pope granted it, but the record does not say whether the Bishop of Meath was equally willing.

Ratoath: A Union of Twelve Former Parishes

Ratoath · town · Meath · 1539–1908

The present parish of Ratoath is described as a union of what were, at the time of the dissolution of the monasteries, twelve separate small parishes, illustrating how sparse population and fragmented patronage prevented efficient reorganization.

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Evils such as these must have been quite manifest at the time, if any one cared at all about the subject ; nor was the remedy hard to find. The thing that ought to have been done was to have restored the incomes that had been taken from the parishes, and given to the monasteries. Then nearly every parish could have secured for itself a competent incumbent, with a university training, and who would be abreast with the thought of the age. Such men would have been a tower of strength to the church in the unsettled times that were so soon to come, and would have instructed their people in sound doctrine. But even if the cupidity of the King, and of those great families who saw in the measure a means of enriching themselves, did not admit of this, there might have been a judicious re-arrangement of parishes, which would have remedied some of the worst results. The population was sparse, and the old parishes were exceedingly small in extent. Unions could, therefore, have been made, which would have provided moderate but sufficient incomes, and which would not have unduly taxed the energies of the incumbents. The present parish of Ratoath, for example, is not one that would ever have been unmanageably large, but it is a union of what was at this time twelve parishes. There are

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 87

Repeated Attacks on Kells by Leinstermen and Danes, 967-968

Kells · town · Meath · 967–968

In 967 and again in 968 the Leinstermen joined forces with the Danes of Dublin in attacking Kells, part of a repeated pattern of assaults on the ecclesiastical city.

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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

Kells, the town you're passing through, was an ecclesiastical settlement that drew raiders again and again. In 967 and again in 968 the Leinstermen made common cause with the Danes of Dublin and attacked Kells, part of a repeated pattern of assaults on the churches of Meath. The Annalists record an earlier wave in 949, when Godfrey son of Sitric and the foreigners of Dublin plundered Kells along with Donaghpatrick, Ardbraccan, Dulane, Disert Keiran, Kilskyre and other churches, but as the source says, it was out of Kells that they all plundered. They carried upwards of 3,000 persons into captivity, besides gold, silver, raiment, and various wealth and goods of every description. From this time the Danes almost invariably had one or another Irish tribe associated with them. The Munstermen joined the Danes of Waterford in 938 to plunder the churches of Meath. The men of Leinster and the Danes of Limerick attacked Clonmacnoise in 951. By the eleventh century the Danes appear less and less in records of monastery plundering, until the mention of them ceases altogether. The raids continued with increased frequency, only it was the native tribes who were the marauders. The Danes had become Christian, while the natives seem to have lost whatever respect they once had for the houses of God.

Saint Sechnall and the naming of Dunshaughlin

Dunshaughlin · town · Meath · 432–460

Saint Sechnall, styled Patrick's 'bishop without fault' in an ancient poem quoted by the Four Masters, is commemorated in the name of the Parish of Dunshaughlin.

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First of these early teachers to be mentioned is Saint Sechnall, whose name is incorporated in that of the Parish Dunshaughlin. An ancient poem, quoted by the Four Masters, gives him the first place in Patrick's " family," and styles him his " bishop without fault/' x According to one account, he was the son of Darerca, and according to another, of Limain,
1 Annals of the Four Masters, A.D. 448.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Dunshaughlin, whose name holds the memory of Saint Sechnall. An ancient poem quoted by the Four Masters gives him the first place in Patrick's family and calls him his bishop without fault. One account says he was the son of Darerca, another that he was the son of Limain.

The Grey Friary of Trim

Trim · town · Meath

The Franciscans' first Meath establishment was probably the Grey Friary of Trim, founded either by King John or the Plunkett family. It occupied the site on which the Court House now stands.

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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

As the companion tells it

Trim is a town the road passes through in Meath, and it was here the Franciscans built their first house in the county. The Grey Friary stood on the ground the Court House now occupies. No one is certain who founded it. Some name King John, others credit the Plunkett family.

Two churches side by side at the Seven Churches, Clonmacnoise

Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 1622

In the Deanery of Clonmacnoise the only churches recorded were two standing side by side at the site known as the 'Seven Churches', while a new church was being built at Athlone.

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of eighty in all. Some parts of the diocese were in much better condition in this respect than others. In the Rural Deanery of Duleek, for example, there were sixteen churches more or less in repair, which were available for divine service, and one, the church of Ardmulchan, was in process of rebuilding. In Ratoath Deanery there were six churches, in Skryne fourteen, in Trim eleven, in Slane ten, and in Fore ten. In the Deanery of Kells, however, there was only one church, that of Kells itself, and of it the Report states that " the body is altogether unrepaired ; the chauncell is in good repair." The churches of Moynalty, Kilskyre, Girley, Donaghpatrick, as well as all the lesser churches in that district, were in complete ruin. In the Deanery of Clonmacnoise, the only churches were two, standing side by side at the " Seven Churches," but a new church was in course of erection at Athlone. The churches of Ballyloughloe, Moate, and Banagher were in ruins, and in the last parish there was no clergyman nor means to support one. The Deanery of Ardnurcher had only one church, with another in course of erection. This deanery included the great parish of Fercall, which embraces a considerable part of the King's County, and extends almost from Tullamore to Birr. There was no church in the whole district. In Clonard Deanery, there were churches at Clonard and Killucan, but all the rest were ruinous. Mullingar and Loughsuedy were somewhat better. The former had eight churches, and the latter seven. It would thus appear that there were some parts of the diocese which were fairly well supplied, whereas in others there was no adequate provision for the celebration of divine service.
We are surprised to find that the church of Nobber, of which the bishop was himself rector, is amongst

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

Athboy church ruinous under Archbishop of Armagh's rectorship

Athboy · town · Meath · 1622

Although the Archbishop of Armagh was Rector of Athboy, the church itself was reported ruinous, though the chancel was reasonably well repaired.

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those which are in ruin. The Archbishop of Armagh was Rector of Athboy, but he, too, seems to have been careless about the fabric of his church, for it is reported that " the church is ruynous ; the chauncell reasonable well repayred." Navan was then, as now, an important place, but its ecclesiastical buildings left much to be desired, for though the church was in good repair, the chancel was reported to be ruinous. The perpetual curate lived at Ardmulchan, which parish he held with Navan, and he served besides the parishes of Dunsany and Kilberry, so that he had four parishes in all, in the same neighbourhood, but no two of them adjoining one another. Of Saint Mary's, Drogheda, we are told that " this is a great church, and both church and chauncell are indifferently repaired." Of Dunboyne too we read, " this is a great parish, and the church and chauncell are both ruyned." Other examples might be multiplied, showing how inadequate was the provision made in some of the most important places.
In the matter of glebe houses, the report is somewhat more satisfactory. At least seventy-three parishes had houses, large or small, fit for residence. In this respect the diocese was much better off than it was at the beginning of the nineteenth century. These residences are differently described. Ordinarily the expression used is " a manse house," but in some cases the residence is described as a " castle." In Trim, for example, there is, we are told, " a fayre castle and an hall with lyme and stone, many houses of office which are now decayed, a garden and a backside, and a close contayning two acres of pasture." Under the heading of Slane, we read that there was " a faire stone house or castle and some howses of

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

Small castle attached to the church at Mayne

Mayne · townland · Meath · 1622

At Mayne the clergyman's residence was a small castle located at the west end of the church, one of several examples of glebe houses built adjoining churches noted in the 1622 visitation.

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Fifteen of the houses are dignified with the name of castles. The bishop's own residence is modestly described as " a faire house with convenient buildings and houses of office." All the glebe houses, of course, were not equally good, and nine of them are specially mentioned as " small." In a few cases the clergyman's house stood in the churchyard, near or attached to the church. Thus, at Mayne, there was " a small castle at the west end of the church," at Rathconnell, " a small castle at the east end of the chauncell," at Moylough (near Loughcrew) " a little castle at the west end of the church " at Drumrany " a small stone house at the end of the church," at Carrick, "a small house in the church yard."
The bishop notes several instances in which houses and lands belonging to the church had been seized by laymen, and seemingly there was no redress to be had. In Rathfeigh (between Ratoath and Kentstown) there were fifteen acres of glebe " now detained by the parochians." In Ardbraccan, under the very eyes of the bishop, there was no glebe house, for although there was " a manse house commonly called the vicarage house/' it had been taken from the parson, and " now his majesty's f armor of the impropriacon

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Mayne, a small castle once stood at the west end of the church, serving as the clergyman's residence. A 1622 visitation of the Diocese of Meath recorded it there, one of several cases where the parson's house was built adjoining the church itself. The record calls it a small castle, and fifteen houses across the diocese were dignified with that name, though nine of them were specially noted as small. The bishop's own residence was described more grandly as a fair house with convenient buildings. At other churches the arrangement was similar: a small castle at the east end of the chancel at Rathconnell, a little castle at the west end at Moylough, a small stone house at the end of the church at Drumrany. The visitation also noted that church lands and houses had been seized by laymen in several places, with seemingly no redress to be had. At Ardbraccan, under the bishop's own eyes, the vicarage house had been taken from the parson.

A boy of fifteen given the benefice of Trim parish

Trim · town · Meath · 1538

In 1538, amid the failures of the Reformation to take hold in Meath, a fifteen-year-old boy was granted a benefice in the diocese, probably the important parish of Trim.

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From what has been said above we may fairly conclude that, notwithstanding the preaching and exertions of the Bishop of Meath, no serious movement towards reform was made in the diocese during the reign of King Henry, and that scarcely any was even attempted. It is disappointing, too, to find that in this crisis, when care should have been taken to provide an efficient ministry, some of the worst evils of former times were perpetuated. In 1538 we have a lad of fifteen years of age obtaining a benefice in the diocese — probably the parish of Trim, the most important of all the parishes in the district. A little more vigour was shown shortly after the accession of Edward VI. The Protestant Party in England then obtained a complete ascendency, and though they began to work in the sister country much earlier than in Ireland, yet their policy was that the one island should follow the other in the religious changes that were then taking place.
Early in 1551, a royal mandate was sent to the viceroy directing him to give notice to the clergy that in future the service was to be read in English and not in Latin. Sir Anthony Saint Leger thereupon assembled the archbishops, bishops, and clergy, and communicated to them the King's decree. The Archbishop of Armagh, though he was one of those appointed by Henry in opposition to the Pope, gave an uncompromising resistance. He objected to a Liturgy in English, for he said, " Then shall every illiterate fellow read Mass." The Lord Deputy reminded him that there were already among the clergy a large number of illiterates who could not

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 93

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, you're in what was the most important parish in this district. In 1538, despite the Bishop of Meath's preaching and efforts, no serious move toward reform had taken hold in the diocese under King Henry. That year, a boy of fifteen was granted a benefice here — probably Trim parish itself — a sign that the old abuses were carrying on unchanged through a crisis when, by all rights, care should have been taken to provide a proper ministry. A little more vigour came after Edward VI took the throne, but for this town, the story is that a lad barely grown was handed one of the weightiest parishes around.

Ardmulchan church being rebuilt

Ardmulchan · townland · Meath · 1622

In the Rural Deanery of Duleek, sixteen churches were in repair for divine service, and the church of Ardmulchan was reported to be in the process of being rebuilt at the time of the 1622 visitation.

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of eighty in all. Some parts of the diocese were in much better condition in this respect than others. In the Rural Deanery of Duleek, for example, there were sixteen churches more or less in repair, which were available for divine service, and one, the church of Ardmulchan, was in process of rebuilding. In Ratoath Deanery there were six churches, in Skryne fourteen, in Trim eleven, in Slane ten, and in Fore ten. In the Deanery of Kells, however, there was only one church, that of Kells itself, and of it the Report states that " the body is altogether unrepaired ; the chauncell is in good repair." The churches of Moynalty, Kilskyre, Girley, Donaghpatrick, as well as all the lesser churches in that district, were in complete ruin. In the Deanery of Clonmacnoise, the only churches were two, standing side by side at the " Seven Churches," but a new church was in course of erection at Athlone. The churches of Ballyloughloe, Moate, and Banagher were in ruins, and in the last parish there was no clergyman nor means to support one. The Deanery of Ardnurcher had only one church, with another in course of erection. This deanery included the great parish of Fercall, which embraces a considerable part of the King's County, and extends almost from Tullamore to Birr. There was no church in the whole district. In Clonard Deanery, there were churches at Clonard and Killucan, but all the rest were ruinous. Mullingar and Loughsuedy were somewhat better. The former had eight churches, and the latter seven. It would thus appear that there were some parts of the diocese which were fairly well supplied, whereas in others there was no adequate provision for the celebration of divine service.
We are surprised to find that the church of Nobber, of which the bishop was himself rector, is amongst

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Ardmulchan, a church was being rebuilt in 1622. That year, a visitation of the Diocese of Meath surveyed the state of churches across the whole diocese, and what it found varied sharply from one district to another. In the Rural Deanery of Duleek, where Ardmulchan stood, sixteen churches were more or less in repair and available for divine service. Ardmulchan itself was in the process of rebuilding. That made Duleek one of the better-supplied districts. Other deaneries told a different story. Ratoath had six churches, Skryne fourteen, Trim eleven, Slane ten, Fore ten. The Deanery of Kells had only one church, Kells itself, and the report noted that "the body is altogether unrepaired; the chancel is in good repair." The churches of Moynalty, Kilskyre, Girley, Donaghpatrick, and all the lesser churches in that district were in complete ruin. In the Deanery of Clonmacnoise, only two churches stood, side by side at the Seven Churches, though a new one was being built at Athlone. Ballyloughloe, Moate, and Banagher were in ruins, and Banagher had no clergyman and no means to support one. Ardnurcher had one church with another being built. Its great parish of Fercall stretched nearly from Tullamore to Birr and had no church at all. Clonard had churches at Clonard and Killucan, the rest ruined. Mullingar had eight, Loughsuedy seven. So the picture in 1622 was uneven. Some parts were fairly well supplied, while others had no adequate provision for divine service.

Bishop of Clonard assumes title Bishop of Meath

Clonard · town · Meath · 1152–1174

Eathruadh O'Miadhachain, Bishop of Clonard, attended the Synod of Kells and continued in his see until after the coming of the English, dying in 1174; his successor Eugene later assumed the title Bishop of Meath, a designation retained ever since.

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see until after the coming of the English, and died in 1174. His successor, Eugene, held the see for twenty years, and a little before his death assumed the title of Bishop of Meath, which has continued to be the designation of the see to the present day.
The Bishop of Clonmacnoise, Murtough O'Maolidhir, was also present at the Synod of Kells. He survived until the year 1188, but seems to have resigned his see some years before his death. His successor, Tighernach O'Broin, died in 1172. Little is known of either of these prelates.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 30

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Clonard, you are near a see that once carried this town's name. Eathruadh O'Miadhachain, Bishop of Clonard, attended the Synod of Kells and kept his see until after the coming of the English, dying in 1174. His successor Eugene held the see for 20 years and, a little before his death, assumed the title of Bishop of Meath. That designation has continued to be the name of the see to the present day.

Bishop of Clonmacnoise granted parish in commendam

Granard · townland · Longford · 1398

In 1398, Philip, elect of Clonmacnoise, was allowed by the Pope to retain the parish of Saint Mary's, Moybrecht, in Ardagh, belonging to the Cistercian monastery at Granard, due to the slender revenues of his See.

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out his income by holding some parish in commendam. This was the case in 1398, when Philip, elect of Clonmacnoise, is allowed by the Pope to retain the parish of Saint Mary's, Moybrechri, in Ardagh, belonging to the Cistercian monastery at Granard, " to the end that he may not, on account of the slender revenues of his See, be compelled to beg, to the shame of the pontificial dignity.16 Yet, poor as it was, the King insisted that no election should be made without his consent having been first asked,17 and at least on one occasion the bishop was a high state official, for we find that in 1390, one Miles Cory, Bishop of Clonmacnoise, was made Lord Justice of Connaught by Richard II. Judging by the names, we would conclude that most of the bishops were Irishmen by birth. The small income and backward position had few attractions for Norman adventurers. It is probable, too, that Irish customs continued here long after they had been abrogated in Meath, and for that reason the English felt under no obligation to respect the sacred character of the places It was attacked by William de Burgo in 1199, and was again plundered by the English in 1200, in 1201, and in 1204. After that a castle was built, and it became an important border fortress. The castle was erected on church land, and the builders cut down the bishop's fruit trees, and appropriated his cows, horses, oxen, and household utensils. On a complaint being made to the King, however, it was ordered that the bishop should be compensated for these losses.18
In consequence of the poverty of the See, there was sometimes considerable difficulty in finding a suitable occupant for it, and frequently it remained vacant for years at a time. Sometimes too the occupant was far

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 80

Capuchins Introduced to Mullingar and Drogheda

Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1625–1640

Under the auspices of the Roman Catholic Bishop Dr. Dease, the Capuchin order was introduced into Mullingar and Drogheda in the reign of Charles I, part of a wider wave of religious orders establishing themselves throughout the Diocese of Meath.

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of allegiance to the King of England, giving as a reason that it was framed for the purpose of wresting the sacred sceptre of the Universal Church from the Vicars of Almighty God. At about the same time there entered the country a large number of Religious Orders. In the Diocese of Meath, under the auspices of Dr. Dease, the Roman Catholic Bishop, the Capuchins were introduced into Mullingar and Drogheda, and there were also founded in different parts of the diocese establishments of the Augustinians, Franciscans, Dominicans, Cistertians, Carmelites, and Jesuits.3 These soon began to make their influence felt, and did not hesitate to fan that hatred of England and the English which was always smouldering in the country. We will see later on how the terrible rebellion of 1641 was set on foot under the auspices of these Religious Orders.
The laws concerning Romanism continued, however, in force all this time ; that is to say, they remained on the Statute Book, and occasional attempts were made to enforce them, so that the irritation which they caused was kept alive. In every other respect they were altogether ineffective. They might have been abrogated, were it not for the power of the Puritan party in England, but to do so would, as the King himself puts it, " be soe generally distastefull to the subjects of England, and would give such an advantage to the King's ennimyes here, that itt may nott be granted without apparent danger of ruine to the King's affaires." 4 The truth is that the doctrine of religious toleration is very modern, and was at this time neither understood nor followed by any country in Europe. Indeed it is doubtful whether in practice any part of the

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 129

Carmelite friary founded at Athboy in 1317

Athboy · town · Meath · 1317

One of the principal Carmelite establishments in Ireland was founded at Athboy in 1317 by William de Loundres, whose family was connected to the Cusacks and Plunketts.

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The Carmelites were originally an order of hermits established on Mount Carmel in the middle of the twelfth century. They sometimes, however, claim an earlier origin than this, and trace themselves back to the prophet Elijah. They also say that the Blessed Virgin was herself a Carmelite nun. In the thirteenth century they were driven out of Palestine by the Saracens, and spread all over Europe, and about the same time they were changed into a mendicant order. One of their principal establishments in Ireland was founded at Athboy in I3i7,36 by William de Loundres. The De Loundres family was a branch of the Cusacks, and was connected also with the Plunketts, who at a very early date came into possession of the property
»5 Mageoghegan.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 53

Churches seized at Kilbeggan, Ballyloughloe and Rathconrath

Kilbeggan · town · Westmeath · 1689–1690

The same pattern of seizure that befell Ardnurcher church also occurred at Kilbeggan, Ballyloughloe, and Rathconrath during this period of religious conflict.

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rabble, who turned it into a cow house, until it was taken over by the Roman Catholic priest. The same thing happened at Kilbeggan, Ballyloughloe, and Rathconrath.7
There is an extraordinary story in connection with the wrecking the church of Trim, which may here be given, not only because it is remarkable in itself, but from the light which it throws on the treatment of lunatics in that age. The case was manifestly one of ordinary delirium tremens, consequent on excessive drinking, but at that time it was regarded as a miraculous intervention of Providence. The narrative is from the pen of Mr. George Proud, the vicar of the parish.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 153

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kilbeggan, this town was caught up in the same wave of church seizures that struck Ardnurcher and nearby Ballyloughloe and Rathconrath around 1689 to 1690. The churches here were seized by a rabble, who turned them into cow houses, until they were taken over by the Roman Catholic priest. It was a brief but sharp episode in the religious conflict of those years.

Franciscan Monastery of Slane

Slane · townland · Meath · 1512

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

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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.
*"< Butler's Trim Castle.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 56

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Slane, the ruins of a Franciscan monastery still crown the hill. It was the last abbey founded in Meath, erected in 1512 by Christopher Fleming, Baron of Slane, and his wife Catherine Preston.

Garvey replaces deposed rector at Kells

Kells · town · Meath · 1559

After Bishop Walsh was deposed for refusing the new Service Book, John Garvey was installed as rector of Kells in his place, while continuing to hold other offices in commendam.

Read the passage

have expected that he would have found much difficulty in accepting the new regime, but his livings were exceptionally valuable, and, therefore, rigour was employed in his case that was not used elsewhere. It is to be supposed that he joined with the bishop in refusing to use the new Service Book, though we have no particular evidence on this point. At all events, he was deprived in 1559, and John Garvey was put in his place at Kells, while Richard Birmingham succeeded him at Kilberry. Garvey afterwards became Bishop of Kildare, and finally Archbishop of Armagh, but he still continued to be Rector of Kells and Archdeacon of Meath, holding these latter offices in commendam. In most other places it is probable that the clergy complied with the orders given, or else that no effort was made to enforce the law.
After Bishop Walsh had been deposed, the See remained vacant for about two years. It was then, in 1563, filled by the appointment of Hugh Brady, who continued to occupy the episcopal seat until 1583. Brady was of an old Irish family, which retained its position in the country after the coming of the English. It is curious to note among his ancestors three who held episcopal rank at a time when the celibacy of the clergy was supposed to have been generally established. 3 He was the great-grandson of John O'Brady, Bishop of Elphin (1405 to 1418), who in turn was son of John, Archbishop of Tuam (1365 to 1372), and he, again, son of John, Archbishop of Cashel. The last of these died in 1345.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 99

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kells, you are in a town where a church upheaval left its mark in 1559. The previous rector was deprived of his living that year, most likely for joining with Bishop Walsh in refusing to use the new Service Book. His livings were exceptionally valuable, so rigour was used in his case that was not applied elsewhere. John Garvey was put in his place at Kells, while Richard Birmingham succeeded him at Kilberry. Garvey went on to become Bishop of Kildare and finally Archbishop of Armagh, but he continued to be Rector of Kells and Archdeacon of Meath, holding those offices in commendam. After Bishop Walsh was deposed, the See stayed vacant for about two years until Hugh Brady was appointed in 1563. Brady served until 1583 and came from an old Irish family. Among his ancestors were three who held episcopal rank: his great-grandfather John O'Brady, Bishop of Elphin from 1405 to 1418; that John's father, John, Archbishop of Tuam from 1365 to 1372; and his father in turn, John, Archbishop of Cashel, who died in 1345.

Land at Donaghmore purchased by priest of Kells

Donaghmore · townland · Meath

A third charter relates to land at Donaghmore near Navan, purchased by the priest of Kells and his kinsmen for eighteen ounces of gold.

Read the passage

Kelts, and is worthy of a somewhat detailed notice, not merely as illustrating the subject we are now considering, but as throwing light on the law of contract as it existed in Ireland before the time of the English invasion. The document consists of seven charters,11 and they give an account of various grants of land made to the community of Kells from time to time. They are the oldest Irish charters in existence, and they are of a special value because they are in the Irish language, whereas all the other old charters are in Latin. They are, says O'Donovan, " exceedingly interesting to the historian, as proving that the ancient Irish had committed their covenants to writing in their own language before the Anglo-Norman invasion ; and that their chiefs, though not succeeding according to the law of primogeniture, claimed the right of binding their successors to covenants lawfully made by them — a right which Shane O'Neill and others called in question in the sixteenth century." The first charter tells how the family of Kells have granted the lands of Ballyheerin and Ballycowan, with their mills, for the support of pilgrims. The second agrees to grant for ever " Disert-Columbkille in Kells, with its vegetable garden, to God and pious pilgrims ; no pilgrim having any lawful possession in it until he devote his life to God and is devout/' The third relates to land at Donaghmore near Navan, which had been purchased by the " priest of Kells and his kinsmen " for eighteen ounces of gold. The fourth tells how Kildalkey was given by the king " to God and to Columbkille for ever," as an atonement for his having violated sanctuary ; and it states that both the laity and clergy of Meath gave their blessing to every king who
11 These Charters are printed in full, with an English translation in the Miscellany of the Irish Arch&ological Society.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 27

Lord Broghill takes Oldcastle

Oldcastle · town · Meath · 1649–1650

Lord Broghill took the town and garrison of Oldcastle during Cromwell's Irish campaign, as recorded in a contemporary pamphlet of victories.

Read the passage

The Lo. Broghill took Oldcastle town and garrison.
A party from Trim marched out beyond Molengar in the County Westmeath, where they defeated a party of the Irish, killed divers, and returned with a prey of 300 cowes and 40 garron horse.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 138

Malachy's council held off the coast of Skerries

Skerries · town · Dublin

Malachy assembled a council of ecclesiastics on one of the islands off the coast of Skerries, then in Danish territory, attended by comparatively few native clergy, as part of his effort to secure the Pope's Pall.

Read the passage

The events which led up to this synod may be briefly recapitulated. Malachy, who, though an Irishman, is said by his biographer to have derived no more from the barbarous country that gave him birth than the fishes do from their native waters, l8 was the leading spirit in the Romeward movement, and for the accomplishment of his purpose had set his heart on obtaining the Pope's pall, which would be at once an acknowledgment of the authority of Rome, and at the same time would raise the See of Armagh to archiepiscopal rank. He therefore made his way to Rome and laid his case before the Pope. He was very graciously received, and was appointed Papal Legate in Ireland, but was told that before granting the Pall it would be necessary to assemble a general council in the country, from which a request should be sent, and that then His Holiness would accede to his wishes. On his return he set to work at once to satisfy these conditions. It is hard to say, at this distance of time, whether the project obtained any great support in Ireland, but it is certain that the Council which he assembled was very far from being general. It was held in one of the islands off the coast of Skerries, in what was then Danish territory, and it was attended by comparatively few of the native ecclesiastics. It is probable also that some of those who did attend were not altogether aware of how far they were surrendering their independence. The men of Armagh evidently thought that they and they alone were to be recipients of the favour, and were greatly dis-
»• Bernard, Vita S, Malachice, chap i.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 30

Mullingar monastery and Petit's Barony

Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1596

The Augustinian monastery of Mullingar was founded by Bishop Ralph le Petit; the surrounding district, granted to the Petit family by Henry II, was long known as Petit's Barony, still largely inhabited by that name as late as 1596.

Read the passage

Meath. The district around Mullingar had been granted to the Petits by Henry II., and was for a long time known as " Petit's Barony." As late as 1596, and probably much later, it was largely inhabited by people of this name. Several priors of Mullingar belonged to the family, and the last of the series, who was dispossessed at the time of the Dissolution, was named John Petit. It seems to have been liberally endowed ; not much of its history, however, has been preserved.
The monastery of Saint Mary, Kells, must also be placed amongst the earliest Norman foundations. It owed its origin to Hugh de Lacy, Lord of Meath, and it soon took its place amongst the most important of the abbeys. Its abbot took the highest rank, and on some occasions was entrusted by the Pope with such business as the deciding of a disputed episcopal election or the hearing of a charge of misconduct against a bishop.^ The property of this house seems to have been considerable, including the tithes of several parishes, but, notwithstanding this, we find the brethren complaining, in 1302, of their " small temporalities," which they ask the King to restore when they will have elected a new abbot.16 There were some remains of this abbey until a comparatively late period, but they are now completely obliterated,

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 47

Priest takes possession of Ballyboy church

Ballyboy · townland · Offaly · 1689–1690

During the same period of upheaval, the Roman Catholic priest took possession of the church at Ballyboy.

Read the passage

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
•King.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 153

Rector of Kells enjoyed a rich benefice

Kells · town · Meath

The Rector of Kells received an income equivalent to about £2,000 a year in modern money, showing the great disparity between rich and poor parishes in the diocese.

Read the passage

We may take these as fair examples of what all these returns are like. In some deaneries the parishes were on a average poorer — this was especially the case in Westmeath — in others they were as good, and occasionally better. We see, therefore, that already there was great disparity of incomes. Some of the clergy were well paid, while others must have been in the direst poverty. The Rector of Kells had what would-be equivalent to £2,000 a year of our money ; the Rectors of Trim and Gal trim had over £1,000 ; but in some of the poorer parishes the incomes would not be worth more than five or six pounds, and sometimes even less. Then it will be noticed how much of the church property was appropriated by the religious orders. In every case where a vicarage is mentioned in the Taxation, it means that the rectory was in the possession of one of the abbeys, and it will be seen that the incomes of the vicars, even in the most advanced parts of the diocese, were scanty indeed.
It does not appear from these returns, but it is abundantly evident from other sources, that pluralities and non-residence prevailed to an incredible extent. The incomes of the richer parishes were frequently used to reward men for political services, or to provide for the younger members of powerful families ; and these good men considered that they had done all that was required of them when they drew the salary, and paid a curate to perform the duty. Sometimes, too, foreigners, recommended by the Pope, and Court favourites recommended by the King, were appointed to these livings. In such cases the idea of residence was never entertained, and even the provision of a curate was not always made.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 62

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kells, it's worth knowing that this town was once one of the richest parishes in the Diocese of Meath. The Rector of Kells had an income equivalent to about £2,000 a year in modern money, while rectors of Trim and Galtrim had over £1,000. In the poorer parishes, though, incomes could be as low as five or six pounds, and sometimes even less. The book calls it a great disparity, with some clergy well paid and others in the direst poverty. Much of the church property had been taken by the religious orders. Wherever a vicarage appears in the taxation records, it means the rectory was in the possession of one of the abbeys, and the vicars' incomes were scanty even in the best parts of the diocese. Pluralities and non-residence were widespread to an incredible extent. The richer parishes were often used to reward men for political services or to provide for younger members of powerful families. These men considered they had done what was required when they drew the salary and paid a curate to perform the duty. Foreigners recommended by the Pope and court favourites recommended by the King were appointed to these livings too. In such cases residence was never entertained, and even a curate was not always provided.

Reduction of Trim garrison

Trim · town · Meath · 1649

On 12 September Cromwell's forces reduced the garrison of Trim, according to a 1650 London pamphlet listing his victories, though it is doubted Cromwell was personally present.

Read the passage

On the 12 of Septemb. his Excelencie reduced the garrison of Trim.
The Lo. Broghill took Oldcastle town and garrison.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 138

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, this is the town whose garrison was reduced on the 12th of September 1649. A London pamphlet from 1650 lists it among Cromwell's victories, crediting his Excellency, though it's doubted Cromwell was personally present.

Silver chalice presented to Loughcrew church by Mr Duddell restored to use

Loughcrew · townland · Meath

A silver chalice presented to the church of Loughcrew by Mr. Duddell had been lost for many years but was later restored to its sacred use by Mr. Harman, a member of the local gentry.

Read the passage

It may be interesting here to note that there is still in the Parish of Loughcrew a silver chalice which was presented to that church by Mr. Duddell. It had been lost for many years, but has lately been restored to its sacred use by Mr. Harman, one of the gentry resident in that neighbourhood.
In England, the career of King James was cut short by the invasion of William, Prince of Orange, but this event only threw Ireland intoAa still greater state of

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 150

Vicarage of Athlone held by 80-year-old David Malone

Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1600–1620

The vicarage of Athlone was worth nearly £30 per annum and held by David Malone, an aged minister of eighty years who had been born there and remained resident.

Read the passage

The vicarage of Athlone is near in value to £30 per ann. Incumbent, David Malone an aged minister, at the age of 80 years, born there, resident. Patron, the Bishop of Meath.
The vicarage of Fercall, valued at time of peace £50, now at £10. Incumbent, Mr. Charles Odur, professor of the civil law. The King's Majesty, patron.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 112

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Athlone, there was a vicarage here worth near £30 a year. It was held by David Malone, an aged minister of 80 years, born in the town and still living there. The patron was the Bishop of Meath.

Barony of Kells and surrounding baronies 'quite wasted' by incursions

Kells · town · Meath · 1596–1597

Archbishop Loftus reported that the baronies of Kells, Slane, Morgallion, Navan, and part of the Barony of Fore were left 'quite wasted' by the rebel incursions of this period.

Read the passage

According to Archbishop Loftus, a great portion of Meath — (he mentions the baronies of Kells, Slane,
212 HISTORY OF THE DIOCESE OF MEATH

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 110

As the companion tells it

The road brings you through Kells, a town in Meath. Between 1596 and 1597, rebel incursions left this whole stretch of country devastated. Archbishop Loftus reported that the baronies of Kells, Slane, Morgallion, Navan, and part of Fore were, in his word, "quite wasted".

Capuchin abbey founded in the parish of St Mary's, Drogheda

Drogheda · town · Louth

Bishop Dease also encouraged the founding of a Capuchin abbey in the parish of Saint Mary's, Drogheda, as part of his revival of Catholic religious institutions.

Read the passage

This last mentioned Father Dease was shortly afterwards consecrated Roman Catholic Bishop of Meath, being the first appointed by the Pope since the time of the Reformation, and under his auspices the abbey of Multifarnham was rebuilt, and once more occupied ; a Capuchin abbey was founded at Slane, and another in the parish of Saint Mary's, Drogheda. He also introduced a community of Jesuits, and encouraged many of the religious orders to work in his diocese. Although he thus showed himself zealous in promoting the interests of his Church, he disassociated himself from political movements as far as possible, and in later years he incurred no little odium from his own co-religionists, because he discountenanced the insurrection which was soon to lead to so much civil war and bloodshed.
As might have been expected, there were many who blamed the authorities for their lax administration of the law. Prominent among these was Bishop Ussher, whose zeal caused at times considerable ill-will against him. In a letter written to him by Sir Henry Bourgchier in 1622, that gentleman states, " I hear much murmurings among the papists here, especially those of our county, against some new persecutions (you know the phrase) lately raised in Ireland, and particularly against some courses of your lordship's in the Diocese of Meath, as namely in the case of Clandestine christenings, &c., beyond all others of your rank." From this we would conclude that the bishop was endeavouring to enforce a stricter administration of the law in his diocese, and in this respect to be following a policy different from that of his pre-

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 122

As the companion tells it

As Drogheda comes up, you are passing through a town with a quiet piece of religious history. A Capuchin abbey was founded here in the parish of Saint Mary's, part of a wider revival of Catholic institutions under Bishop Dease. He was the first Roman Catholic Bishop of Meath appointed by the Pope since the Reformation. Under his auspices the abbey of Multifarnham was rebuilt and once more occupied, a Capuchin abbey was founded at Slane, and another here in Drogheda. He also introduced a community of Jesuits and encouraged many of the religious orders to work in his diocese. Though zealous in promoting the interests of his Church, he disassociated himself from political movements as far as possible. In later years he incurred no little odium from his own co-religionists because he discountenanced the insurrection which was soon to lead to so much civil war and bloodshed. Not everyone agreed with how the law was administered either. In 1622 Sir Henry Bourgchier wrote to Bishop Ussher saying, "I hear much murmurings among the papists here, especially those of our county, against some new persecutions lately raised in Ireland."

Dunboyne, a great parish, church and chancel both ruined

Dunboyne · town · Meath · 1622

Dunboyne was noted as a great parish where both the church and the chancel were completely ruined at the time of the 1622 visitation.

Read the passage

those which are in ruin. The Archbishop of Armagh was Rector of Athboy, but he, too, seems to have been careless about the fabric of his church, for it is reported that " the church is ruynous ; the chauncell reasonable well repayred." Navan was then, as now, an important place, but its ecclesiastical buildings left much to be desired, for though the church was in good repair, the chancel was reported to be ruinous. The perpetual curate lived at Ardmulchan, which parish he held with Navan, and he served besides the parishes of Dunsany and Kilberry, so that he had four parishes in all, in the same neighbourhood, but no two of them adjoining one another. Of Saint Mary's, Drogheda, we are told that " this is a great church, and both church and chauncell are indifferently repaired." Of Dunboyne too we read, " this is a great parish, and the church and chauncell are both ruyned." Other examples might be multiplied, showing how inadequate was the provision made in some of the most important places.
In the matter of glebe houses, the report is somewhat more satisfactory. At least seventy-three parishes had houses, large or small, fit for residence. In this respect the diocese was much better off than it was at the beginning of the nineteenth century. These residences are differently described. Ordinarily the expression used is " a manse house," but in some cases the residence is described as a " castle." In Trim, for example, there is, we are told, " a fayre castle and an hall with lyme and stone, many houses of office which are now decayed, a garden and a backside, and a close contayning two acres of pasture." Under the heading of Slane, we read that there was " a faire stone house or castle and some howses of

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Dunboyne, in County Meath. Back in 1622, the visitation reported this was a great parish, but both the church and the chancel were completely ruined. The record says simply that "the church and chauncell are both ruyned." It stood alongside other important places in the diocese where the fabric had been left to decay.

Navan church in good repair, chancel ruinous

Navan · town · Meath · 1622

Navan, already an important place, had a church in good repair but its chancel was reported ruinous at the 1622 visitation; the curate who served Navan also held Ardmulchan, Dunsany and Kilberry.

Read the passage

those which are in ruin. The Archbishop of Armagh was Rector of Athboy, but he, too, seems to have been careless about the fabric of his church, for it is reported that " the church is ruynous ; the chauncell reasonable well repayred." Navan was then, as now, an important place, but its ecclesiastical buildings left much to be desired, for though the church was in good repair, the chancel was reported to be ruinous. The perpetual curate lived at Ardmulchan, which parish he held with Navan, and he served besides the parishes of Dunsany and Kilberry, so that he had four parishes in all, in the same neighbourhood, but no two of them adjoining one another. Of Saint Mary's, Drogheda, we are told that " this is a great church, and both church and chauncell are indifferently repaired." Of Dunboyne too we read, " this is a great parish, and the church and chauncell are both ruyned." Other examples might be multiplied, showing how inadequate was the provision made in some of the most important places.
In the matter of glebe houses, the report is somewhat more satisfactory. At least seventy-three parishes had houses, large or small, fit for residence. In this respect the diocese was much better off than it was at the beginning of the nineteenth century. These residences are differently described. Ordinarily the expression used is " a manse house," but in some cases the residence is described as a " castle." In Trim, for example, there is, we are told, " a fayre castle and an hall with lyme and stone, many houses of office which are now decayed, a garden and a backside, and a close contayning two acres of pasture." Under the heading of Slane, we read that there was " a faire stone house or castle and some howses of

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Navan, in Meath. Back in 1622, when the church here was inspected, the main body of the building was in good repair, but the chancel was reported ruinous. Navan was already an important place at that time, though its ecclesiastical buildings left something to be desired. The curate who served Navan did not live here. He lived at Ardmulchan, which parish he held together with Navan, and he served besides the parishes of Dunsany and Kilberry. So he had four parishes in all, in the same neighbourhood, but no two of them adjoining one another.

Nobber church, held by the bishop, found in ruin

Nobber · town · Meath · 1622

Despite being the bishop's own rectory, the church of Nobber was reported among those in ruin during the 1622 visitation.

Read the passage

We are surprised to find that the church of Nobber, of which the bishop was himself rector, is amongst
244 HISTORY OF THE DIOCESE OF MEATH

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

Small castle at Rathconnell attached to chancel

Rathconnell · townland · Westmeath · 1622

At Rathconnell the glebe residence was a small castle situated at the east end of the church's chancel, as recorded in the 1622 visitation report.

Read the passage

Fifteen of the houses are dignified with the name of castles. The bishop's own residence is modestly described as " a faire house with convenient buildings and houses of office." All the glebe houses, of course, were not equally good, and nine of them are specially mentioned as " small." In a few cases the clergyman's house stood in the churchyard, near or attached to the church. Thus, at Mayne, there was " a small castle at the west end of the church," at Rathconnell, " a small castle at the east end of the chauncell," at Moylough (near Loughcrew) " a little castle at the west end of the church " at Drumrany " a small stone house at the end of the church," at Carrick, "a small house in the church yard."
The bishop notes several instances in which houses and lands belonging to the church had been seized by laymen, and seemingly there was no redress to be had. In Rathfeigh (between Ratoath and Kentstown) there were fifteen acres of glebe " now detained by the parochians." In Ardbraccan, under the very eyes of the bishop, there was no glebe house, for although there was " a manse house commonly called the vicarage house/' it had been taken from the parson, and " now his majesty's f armor of the impropriacon

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

As the companion tells it

Close to Rathconnell, somewhere around here, there was once a small castle at the east end of the church's chancel. That detail comes from a 1622 visitation report, which described the glebe residences across the diocese. Many of the clergy's houses were modest, and nine were noted as small. In a few cases the minister's house stood in the churchyard, near or attached to the church, and Rathconnell was one of those. The report called it "a small castle at the east end of the chauncell."

Cistercian abbey De Flumine Dei at Kilbeggan

Kilbeggan · town · Westmeath · 1200

A Cistercian house called 'De Flumine Dei' was founded around 1200 by the Dalton family at Kilbeggan, as a daughter monastery of Mellifont. No trace of this abbey now remains.

Read the passage

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.
If the Cistercians were the first, the Augustinians were by far the most popular of the religious orders founded in Meath. They were less severe in discipline than monks properly so called, and were particular favourites in England just at this time. Some

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 46

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kilbeggan in Westmeath, you are travelling through the site of a lost Cistercian house. Around the year 1200 the Dalton family founded an abbey here called De Flumine Dei, as a daughter monastery of Mellifont. One of its abbots, William O'Fynnan, rose to become Bishop of Clonmacnoise. No vestige of the abbey now exists, so there is nothing to look for.

Donald Magluay's dual benefice at Rathwire and Castlerickard

near Rathwire · town · Westmeath · 1400

Donald Magluay, already Rector of Rathwire (Killucan), was appointed also to Castlerickard by papal provision but found actual possession difficult to secure, facing molestation under the Statute of Provisors.

Read the passage

We learn from these two examples that the interference of the Pope in the affairs of the Church of Ireland did not always pass without protest. This is further exemplified by an event which happened in the year 1400. This time it was in connection with the Parish of Castlerickard. The rector was John Tathe, an Englishman, and because he " did not well understand and intelligibly speak the language of the majority of the parishioners," the Pope deposed him. We would have more admiration for this action of His Holiness if he had not appointed in his stead Donald Magluay, who was already Rector of Rathwire (Killucan), and who was to hold the two parishes simultaneously. Donald soon found that it was easier to obtain a papal provision than it was to secure actual possession of the parish, and so we have him complaining that " impetrators of papal graces are often molested with banishment, imprisonment, &c., under a Statute of Provisors." The Pope in this case ' commands the Abbot of Kilbeggan and the Dean of Clonmacnoise to help Donald. They are to compel molestors and rebels by ecclesiastical censure, invoking, if necessary, the aid of the secular arm. The Pope by these presents, which are to hold good for ten years, exempts Donald from the jurisdiction of the Bishop
14 Vatican Records.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 72

Dublin boy holds Kilmessan benefice

Kilmessan · town · Meath · 1577

John Barnewall, described as a young boy of Dublin, was found holding the parish benefice of Kilmessan, another example cited by the 1577 commissioners of improper church appointments.

Read the passage

The state of the diocese under Bishop Brady does not seem to have been very prosperous. He speaks of the clergy as being in a state of beggary. He tells Lord Justice Pelham that " some one of her Majesty's farmers of parsonges impropriate near Trim, hath sixteen benefices in his hands, and amongst those not one vicar or minister maintained that can read English or understand Latin, or give any good instruction to his parishioners." Commissioners were appointed in 1577 to look after ecclesiastical matters, and they report among others things that " the bishops had admitted to livings boys, kearne, laymen, and other incapable persons." They instance George Cusack, a lay serving man, usurper of Kentstown ; Lucas Plunket, prentice to a vintner in Dublin, who had Killavy, a parish of which the Baron of Slane was patron ; Robert Nugent, a horseman of the Baron of Delvin's retinue, who held Galtrim ; and John Barnewall, a young boy of Dublin, who had Kilmessan.
* Shirley's Original Letters. • Ibid.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 103

Edward Southerne resident at Navan for safety

Navan · town · Meath · 1600–1620

Edward Southerne, incumbent of the rectory of Stackallen, an English minister and preacher, resided at Navan for his own safety by the bishop's appointment, rather than in his own parish.

Read the passage

The rectory of Stacallen, valet per ann. £30 sterling. Incumbent, Edward Southerne, an English minister and preacher, residing for his safety at the Navan by my appointment. Mr. Barnewell of Crykeston, patron.
The rectory of Rathwire, valet per ann. £120 sterling. Incumbent, Henry Luttrell, a minister of this country. The old Countess of Kildare is patron, and fermor of this rectory for a little.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 112

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is the town of Navan in Meath. Around the early 1600s an English minister and preacher named Edward Southerne held the rectory of Stackallen, worth 30 pounds a year, but the bishop had him live here in Navan rather than in his own parish, for his own safety.

Horseman holds Galtrim benefice

Galtrim · townland · Meath · 1577

Robert Nugent, a horseman in the retinue of the Baron of Delvin, was found to hold the benefice of Galtrim despite having no clerical qualifications.

Read the passage

The state of the diocese under Bishop Brady does not seem to have been very prosperous. He speaks of the clergy as being in a state of beggary. He tells Lord Justice Pelham that " some one of her Majesty's farmers of parsonges impropriate near Trim, hath sixteen benefices in his hands, and amongst those not one vicar or minister maintained that can read English or understand Latin, or give any good instruction to his parishioners." Commissioners were appointed in 1577 to look after ecclesiastical matters, and they report among others things that " the bishops had admitted to livings boys, kearne, laymen, and other incapable persons." They instance George Cusack, a lay serving man, usurper of Kentstown ; Lucas Plunket, prentice to a vintner in Dublin, who had Killavy, a parish of which the Baron of Slane was patron ; Robert Nugent, a horseman of the Baron of Delvin's retinue, who held Galtrim ; and John Barnewall, a young boy of Dublin, who had Kilmessan.
* Shirley's Original Letters. • Ibid.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 103

Moynalty, Kilskyre, Girley and Donaghpatrick churches in ruin

Moynalty · townland · Meath · 1622

In the Deanery of Kells all the lesser churches, including those of Moynalty, Kilskyre, Girley and Donaghpatrick, were reported to be in complete ruin at the time of the 1622 visitation.

Read the passage

of eighty in all. Some parts of the diocese were in much better condition in this respect than others. In the Rural Deanery of Duleek, for example, there were sixteen churches more or less in repair, which were available for divine service, and one, the church of Ardmulchan, was in process of rebuilding. In Ratoath Deanery there were six churches, in Skryne fourteen, in Trim eleven, in Slane ten, and in Fore ten. In the Deanery of Kells, however, there was only one church, that of Kells itself, and of it the Report states that " the body is altogether unrepaired ; the chauncell is in good repair." The churches of Moynalty, Kilskyre, Girley, Donaghpatrick, as well as all the lesser churches in that district, were in complete ruin. In the Deanery of Clonmacnoise, the only churches were two, standing side by side at the " Seven Churches," but a new church was in course of erection at Athlone. The churches of Ballyloughloe, Moate, and Banagher were in ruins, and in the last parish there was no clergyman nor means to support one. The Deanery of Ardnurcher had only one church, with another in course of erection. This deanery included the great parish of Fercall, which embraces a considerable part of the King's County, and extends almost from Tullamore to Birr. There was no church in the whole district. In Clonard Deanery, there were churches at Clonard and Killucan, but all the rest were ruinous. Mullingar and Loughsuedy were somewhat better. The former had eight churches, and the latter seven. It would thus appear that there were some parts of the diocese which were fairly well supplied, whereas in others there was no adequate provision for the celebration of divine service.
We are surprised to find that the church of Nobber, of which the bishop was himself rector, is amongst

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

New church erected at Athlone

Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1622

At the time of the 1622 visitation a new church was in course of erection at Athlone, part of the sparsely served Deanery of Clonmacnoise.

Read the passage

of eighty in all. Some parts of the diocese were in much better condition in this respect than others. In the Rural Deanery of Duleek, for example, there were sixteen churches more or less in repair, which were available for divine service, and one, the church of Ardmulchan, was in process of rebuilding. In Ratoath Deanery there were six churches, in Skryne fourteen, in Trim eleven, in Slane ten, and in Fore ten. In the Deanery of Kells, however, there was only one church, that of Kells itself, and of it the Report states that " the body is altogether unrepaired ; the chauncell is in good repair." The churches of Moynalty, Kilskyre, Girley, Donaghpatrick, as well as all the lesser churches in that district, were in complete ruin. In the Deanery of Clonmacnoise, the only churches were two, standing side by side at the " Seven Churches," but a new church was in course of erection at Athlone. The churches of Ballyloughloe, Moate, and Banagher were in ruins, and in the last parish there was no clergyman nor means to support one. The Deanery of Ardnurcher had only one church, with another in course of erection. This deanery included the great parish of Fercall, which embraces a considerable part of the King's County, and extends almost from Tullamore to Birr. There was no church in the whole district. In Clonard Deanery, there were churches at Clonard and Killucan, but all the rest were ruinous. Mullingar and Loughsuedy were somewhat better. The former had eight churches, and the latter seven. It would thus appear that there were some parts of the diocese which were fairly well supplied, whereas in others there was no adequate provision for the celebration of divine service.
We are surprised to find that the church of Nobber, of which the bishop was himself rector, is amongst

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Athlone in Westmeath, it is worth knowing that in 1622 a new church was being built here. At the time of the visitation that year, this was a notable event, because the Deanery of Clonmacnoise, which Athlone belonged to, was sparsely served. The only existing churches were two standing side by side at the Seven Churches, and the surrounding parishes of Ballyloughloe, Moate, and Banagher were all in ruins. In Banagher there was no clergyman and no means to support one. So a church rising at Athlone mattered. It was one of the few signs of provision in a deanery where divine service had largely ceased. The wider diocese of Meath told the same story in different keys. Some deaneries had a dozen or more churches in repair, while others had none at all. Kells had only its own church, and even there the report noted that the body was altogether unrepaired, though the chancel was in good repair. The new church at Athlone was part of a thin and uneven effort to restore what had fallen.

Odder nunnery founded by the Barnwall family

Odder · townland · Meath

The nunnery of Odder was founded by the Barnwall family near the end of the twelfth century; by the dissolution it held possessions across Meath, Louth, Dublin, Kildare, and Carlow.

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Not far distant from Lismullen was the nunnery of Odder, founded by the Barnwall family, shortly after their arrival in Meath, that is, towards the end of the twelfth century. At the time of the dissolution it had possessions in Meath, Louth, Dublin, Kildare, Carlow, and elsewhere.
Allied to the Augustinians were several orders who undertook the care of the sick, and whose establishments were generally called hospitals. Such were the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem, the Knights Templars (in their later history), the Trinitarians, and some others. These may conveniently be classed together. The Knights of Saint John had

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 51

Rector of Killare deprived for non-residence

Killare · parish · Westmeath · 1615

Thomas Keating, rector of Killare, was non-resident and beneficed elsewhere, and was accordingly deprived, with the fruits of the benefice sequestrated under Bishop Montgomery's discipline.

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The non-residence of many of the clergy was a crying evil, not only in that age, but in all the time that clasped from the first coming of the English down to a comparatively recent period. Under an energetic bishop the scandal would be to some extent diminished, but as soon as vigilance was relaxed it assumed again alarming proportions. In this respect, too, the deterioration in the seven years that elapsed between the two reports is very marked. Things were bad enough in 1615, but there was, at all events, an attempt to administer strictly the discipline of the diocese in this respect, and in most cases those who were nonresident were deprived. Thus, Thomas Keating was rector of Killare (now in the Union of Drumconrath). He was non-resident and beneficed elsewhere. He was accordingly deprived, and the fruits of the

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 117

Rectors of Trim and Galtrim among wealthiest livings

Trim · town · Meath

The Rectors of Trim and Galtrim held incomes worth over £1,000 a year in modern money, contrasting sharply with the direst poverty of other parishes in the diocese.

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We may take these as fair examples of what all these returns are like. In some deaneries the parishes were on a average poorer — this was especially the case in Westmeath — in others they were as good, and occasionally better. We see, therefore, that already there was great disparity of incomes. Some of the clergy were well paid, while others must have been in the direst poverty. The Rector of Kells had what would-be equivalent to £2,000 a year of our money ; the Rectors of Trim and Gal trim had over £1,000 ; but in some of the poorer parishes the incomes would not be worth more than five or six pounds, and sometimes even less. Then it will be noticed how much of the church property was appropriated by the religious orders. In every case where a vicarage is mentioned in the Taxation, it means that the rectory was in the possession of one of the abbeys, and it will be seen that the incomes of the vicars, even in the most advanced parts of the diocese, were scanty indeed.
It does not appear from these returns, but it is abundantly evident from other sources, that pluralities and non-residence prevailed to an incredible extent. The incomes of the richer parishes were frequently used to reward men for political services, or to provide for the younger members of powerful families ; and these good men considered that they had done all that was required of them when they drew the salary, and paid a curate to perform the duty. Sometimes, too, foreigners, recommended by the Pope, and Court favourites recommended by the King, were appointed to these livings. In such cases the idea of residence was never entertained, and even the provision of a curate was not always made.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 62

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, you're in what was once one of the wealthiest parishes in the Diocese of Meath. The Rectors of Trim and Galtrim held incomes worth over £1,000 a year, while poorer parishes in the diocese survived on five or six pounds, sometimes less. The richer livings were frequently handed out as political rewards or given to younger sons of powerful families, who drew the salary and paid a curate to do the work, if they bothered at all. Foreigners recommended by the Pope and court favourites recommended by the King were appointed to these parishes, and the idea of actually living here was never entertained.

Round Towers at Donaghmore and Clonmacnoise

Donaghmore · townland · Meath

Besides Kells, the other round towers that Meath possesses are situated at Donaghmore near Navan and at Clonmacnoise.

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About the same age as the crosses, or perhaps a little later, are the round towers, of which an excellent example — perfect, except that the conical roof is missing — may be seen at Kells. These were manifestly watch towers, erected at a time when the Church was no longer at peace ; and in this connection the Kells tower is particularly instructive. Ordinarily there are four windows at the top of these towers, which command the four cardinal points, but in Kells there are five such apertures, corresponding to the five roads by which the place was formerly approached. The other round towers that Meath possesses are situated at Donaghmore, near Navan, and at Clonmacnoise.
Both Kells and Durrow are also celebrated for their metal work. The shrine in which was enclosed

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 22

Saint Mary's, Drogheda, a great church indifferently repaired

Drogheda · town · Louth · 1622

St. Mary's in Drogheda was described as a great church with both church and chancel indifferently repaired at the time of the 1622 visitation.

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those which are in ruin. The Archbishop of Armagh was Rector of Athboy, but he, too, seems to have been careless about the fabric of his church, for it is reported that " the church is ruynous ; the chauncell reasonable well repayred." Navan was then, as now, an important place, but its ecclesiastical buildings left much to be desired, for though the church was in good repair, the chancel was reported to be ruinous. The perpetual curate lived at Ardmulchan, which parish he held with Navan, and he served besides the parishes of Dunsany and Kilberry, so that he had four parishes in all, in the same neighbourhood, but no two of them adjoining one another. Of Saint Mary's, Drogheda, we are told that " this is a great church, and both church and chauncell are indifferently repaired." Of Dunboyne too we read, " this is a great parish, and the church and chauncell are both ruyned." Other examples might be multiplied, showing how inadequate was the provision made in some of the most important places.
In the matter of glebe houses, the report is somewhat more satisfactory. At least seventy-three parishes had houses, large or small, fit for residence. In this respect the diocese was much better off than it was at the beginning of the nineteenth century. These residences are differently described. Ordinarily the expression used is " a manse house," but in some cases the residence is described as a " castle." In Trim, for example, there is, we are told, " a fayre castle and an hall with lyme and stone, many houses of office which are now decayed, a garden and a backside, and a close contayning two acres of pasture." Under the heading of Slane, we read that there was " a faire stone house or castle and some howses of

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 124

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Drogheda, this was the site of Saint Mary's, one of the town's churches. In the 1622 visitation of the Diocese of Meath, the report on Saint Mary's was brief but telling. The record says, "this is a great church, and both church and chancel are indifferently repaired." That phrase, indifferently repaired, meant the building was standing but only patched up, not properly kept. Drogheda was a significant town, and Saint Mary's was described as a great church, so the size was acknowledged, but the fabric of the building had been neglected. The 1622 visitation across the diocese found many churches in similar or worse condition, with some ruined entirely, so Saint Mary's was not alone in its state of disrepair. The report placed it among several important parishes where the provision made for church buildings fell short of what the authorities expected. What remains today would depend on later centuries, but in 1622 it was a large church struggling to stay in reasonable repair.

See of Clonmacnoise united to Meath

Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 1568

Following the death of Bishop Peter Wall in 1568, the See of Clonmacnoise was united to that of Meath by Act of Parliament, a union that continued to the time of writing.

Read the passage

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.
The preamble to the Act of Parliament by which this union was made sets forth the ostensible reasons why it was deemed advisable, but the real reason was, in all probability, merely to add some small increase

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 81

Site of Navan abbey now cavalry barracks

Navan · town · Meath

The site of Navan abbey is now occupied by the disused cavalry barracks, with no vestige remaining of the ancient buildings.

Read the passage

The abbey of Navan was founded about this time by Joceline de Angulo. This name appears sometimes as Nangle, and sometimes as De la Corner, both forms commemorating the " corner " or " angle " of Pembrokeshire in which the family was settled. The name was borne by two knights, Gilbert and Joceline, who obtained large grants of land in the County Meath. Gilbert became possessed of the whole barony of Morgallion, and Joceline obtained Navan and Ardbraccan.11 Navan soon became one of the most important towns of the Pale, and was naturally chosen as the site of a great abbey. At first, however, the endowments seem to have been small, and we have the prior and brethren asking in 1267 for licence to elect an abbot, without being obliged to go to England with their petition, urging as a reason that they had "very poor temporalities." I2 In after years they obtained a source of considerable income, in the form of a miraculous image of the Blessed Virgin, to which pilgrimages were made from all parts of the country. As a proof of the importance to which the establishment afterwards attained, it may be mentioned that in 1457 the abbot, John Bole, was elevated to the Archbishopric of Armagh.^ The site of the abbey is now occupied by the disused cavalry barracks, and no vestige remains of the ancient buildings.
The Augustinian monastery of Mullingar was founded by Ralph le Petit,1 4 when he was Bishop of

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 47

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Navan, you are moving through ground where an abbey once stood, founded by Joceline de Angulo, also known as Nangle. He was one of two knight brothers who received large grants of land in County Meath; Joceline got Navan and Ardbraccan, while Gilbert took the barony of Morgallion. Navan became one of the most important towns of the Pale, and an abbey was built here. In 1267 the prior and brethren asked for leave to elect an abbot without travelling to England to petition, saying they had very poor temporalities. In later years the house drew pilgrims from all over the country to a miraculous image of the Blessed Virgin, which brought in considerable income. By 1457 the abbot, John Bole, had risen high enough to be made Archbishop of Armagh. Today the site is occupied by the disused cavalry barracks, and nothing remains of the old buildings.

Ambrose Jones presents church plate to Kells

Kells · town · Meath · 1650–1681

Ambrose Jones, a Commonwealth-era appointed preacher, later became Archdeacon of Meath after the Restoration and presented church plate to the Parish of Kells, as recorded in an inscription.

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If this list is to be considered as in any way complete, it would appear that the provision made was anything but adequate, and that large districts were left without any preacher or clergyman. Some of the names here given are those of church clergymen, who were in possession of their parishes before the time of the rebellion. It is to be presumed that in accepting appointments under Cromwell they agreed to forego the use of the Prayer Book, and to adopt the forms of worship which were favoured by the Puritans. There can be little doubt that through all the time of the Protector's rule the use of the church service was strictly prohibited. As for the preachers who were appointed by Cromwell, we have not the information at our disposal to say how they fared at the Restoration, when church order was once more established. In most cases, no doubt, they had to relinquish their positions. One of them, at all events, if not more, continued to hold his place, for an inscription on the church plate of the Parish of Kells records that it was presented by Ambrose Jones, whose name appears in the above list, but was nevertheless appointed Archdeacon of Meath when the diocese was once more organised. We have no means of knowing whether he was ordained at the time of the Restoration, or whether he was already in Holy Orders when he was appointed to " preach the Gospell " at Kells.
The following appointments of schoolmasters and

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 141

As the companion tells it

Coming through Kells now, in Meath. Back in the 1650s, under Cromwell's rule, the use of the church service was strictly prohibited, and preachers appointed to parishes were expected to adopt Puritan forms of worship instead of the Prayer Book. One such preacher here was Ambrose Jones, appointed to "preach the Gospell" at Kells. When the Restoration came and church order was restored, most of Cromwell's preachers had to give up their positions. Jones was an exception. He not only kept his place but was appointed Archdeacon of Meath when the diocese was reorganised. An inscription on the church plate of the Parish of Kells records that he presented it, which is how we know his story. Whether he was already in Holy Orders when he first came to preach here, or was ordained only at the Restoration, is not recorded.

Archdeaconry of Meath seated near Kells

Kells · town · Meath · 1600–1620

The Archdeaconry of Meath was a living seated near the town of Kells, valued at 200 marks per annum, with the rectory of Kells and three adjoining parishes attached. Neglect of church service and chancel repair led to sequestration of its fruits.

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The Archdeaconry of Meath, a living seated upon this border, near to the town of Kells, is by these late broils in value damaged, yet I do value it at this instant at 200 [marks per ann. To this dignity pertain the rectory of Kells with three other parishes next adjoining. Mr. Owen Wood, one of Her late Majesty's chaplains, is incumbent, and under him and Patrick Barnewall, receive the yearly profits, but between them, there is neither care taken of the service of the church, nor of upholding the repair of the chancells, and therefore the fruits are in sequestration. The Bishop of Meath is patron, but Mr. Woods was presented by an advowson granted by my predecessor and confirmed by the clergy.
The rectory of Trym, with four churches annexed to it, hath likewise sustained some decay in this rebellion, but is worth per ann. about £150 sterling. Incumbent, Mr. Robert Draper,2 an ancient master of arts, a learned preacher, and a

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 112

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kells, the Archdeaconry of Meath was once seated near this town. Around 1600 it was valued at 200 marks a year, with the rectory of Kells and three adjoining parishes attached to it. Mr. Owen Wood, one of Her late Majesty's chaplains, held the post, and under him and Patrick Barnewall the yearly profits were drawn. But between them, as the record puts it, "there is neither care taken of the service of the church, nor of upholding the repair of the chancells." For that neglect the fruits were put in sequestration. The Bishop of Meath was the patron, though Wood had been presented through an advowson granted by the bishop's predecessor and confirmed by the clergy.

Balsoon and Castlecor churches repaired after episcopal admonition

Castlecor · townland · Meath · 1615–1622

Bishop Montgomery admonished impropriators and incumbents to repair ruined churches. Balsoon and Castlecor were the only two instances where his admonitions had any effect, unlike other parishes which remained ruinous.

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into a ruinous condition. However, that may be, we can scarcely avoid the conclusion that there was conspicuous neglect somewhere, when seven years could make such a difference between the two reports. Bishop Montgomery notes several cases in which he had admonished the impropriator or the incumbent to undertake the repair of the church without delay, and in a few instances, he says that, he had sequestrated the income, or threatened to do so, unless the church were put into decent order. But threats such as these are utterly futile unless it is clearly understood that they will be followed by resolute action, and that is exactly what was wanting in this case. There seem to have been only two instances — Balsoon and Castlecor — in which the bishop's admonitions had any effect. In every other case, the churches reported by Montgomery as ruinous, and ordered by him to be repaired, are still said to be ruinous in the report of 1622.
The non-residence of many of the clergy was a crying evil, not only in that age, but in all the time that clasped from the first coming of the English down to a comparatively recent period. Under an energetic bishop the scandal would be to some extent diminished, but as soon as vigilance was relaxed it assumed again alarming proportions. In this respect, too, the deterioration in the seven years that elapsed between the two reports is very marked. Things were bad enough in 1615, but there was, at all events, an attempt to administer strictly the discipline of the diocese in this respect, and in most cases those who were nonresident were deprived. Thus, Thomas Keating was rector of Killare (now in the Union of Drumconrath). He was non-resident and beneficed elsewhere. He was accordingly deprived, and the fruits of the

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 117

Birmingham succeeds at Kilberry

Kilberry · townland · Meath · 1559

Richard Birmingham succeeded the deprived clergyman at Kilberry following the enforcement of the new religious settlement in 1559.

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have expected that he would have found much difficulty in accepting the new regime, but his livings were exceptionally valuable, and, therefore, rigour was employed in his case that was not used elsewhere. It is to be supposed that he joined with the bishop in refusing to use the new Service Book, though we have no particular evidence on this point. At all events, he was deprived in 1559, and John Garvey was put in his place at Kells, while Richard Birmingham succeeded him at Kilberry. Garvey afterwards became Bishop of Kildare, and finally Archbishop of Armagh, but he still continued to be Rector of Kells and Archdeacon of Meath, holding these latter offices in commendam. In most other places it is probable that the clergy complied with the orders given, or else that no effort was made to enforce the law.
After Bishop Walsh had been deposed, the See remained vacant for about two years. It was then, in 1563, filled by the appointment of Hugh Brady, who continued to occupy the episcopal seat until 1583. Brady was of an old Irish family, which retained its position in the country after the coming of the English. It is curious to note among his ancestors three who held episcopal rank at a time when the celibacy of the clergy was supposed to have been generally established. 3 He was the great-grandson of John O'Brady, Bishop of Elphin (1405 to 1418), who in turn was son of John, Archbishop of Tuam (1365 to 1372), and he, again, son of John, Archbishop of Cashel. The last of these died in 1345.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 99

Bishop Erc's Hermitage on the Boyne near Slane

Slane · townland · Meath

A small church beautifully situated on the banks of the Boyne, near Slane, still retains the name of Bishop Erc's Hermitage.

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A small church, beautifully situated on the banks of the Boyne, near Slane, still retains the name of Bishop Erc's Hermitage.
* Office of St. Kenan, quoted in Harris's Ware.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 9

Bishop Peter Wall granted benefice of Ballyloughloe

Ballyloughloe · parish · Westmeath · 1560

Peter Wall, who had professed Protestantism under Edward VI but made his peace with the church, was presented by Queen Elizabeth to the benefice of Ballyloughloe in 1560, which he held in commendam with his bishopric.

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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.
The preamble to the Act of Parliament by which this union was made sets forth the ostensible reasons why it was deemed advisable, but the real reason was, in all probability, merely to add some small increase

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 81

Land near Kells purchased for silver, later the glebe

Kells · town · Meath

The seventh charter records land between the town of Kells and the river purchased for twenty-four ounces of silver, which probably constituted the glebe of Kells until disestablishment.

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

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kells, there is land between the town and the river that was once bought for 24 ounces of silver. The seventh charter of Kells records the purchase, and the land likely served as the glebe of Kells right up to the time of disestablishment. The same church had quite a large estate, and the charters show the fifth leasing a house in Kells and the sixth recording the purchase of Ardbraccan from the king.

Robert Luttrell, Archdeacon of Meath and Rector of Kells and Kilberry

Kells · town · Meath · 1535–1559

Robert Luttrell held the positions of Archdeacon of Meath and Rector of Kells and Kilberry, having been appointed to the latter under Henry VIII in 1535 by royal presentation.

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The one instance of deprivation which we know took place in Meath, is a case in point. On the accession of Queen Elizabeth, Robert Luttrell was Archdeacon of Meath, and Rector of Kells and Kilberry. He had been appointed to the last in 1535, under Henry VIII., by the King's presentation. We cannot say when he was made archdeacon, but it was probably in the time of Edward VI. From his antecedents, therefore, we would not

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 98

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kells, this was the parish of Robert Luttrell, who was Archdeacon of Meath and Rector of Kells and Kilberry. He had been appointed rector in 1535 under Henry VIII by the King's presentation, and probably became archdeacon under Edward VI. On the accession of Queen Elizabeth, he was deprived of his positions, one of the few such cases known in Meath.

Sir Charles Coote takes Castlejordan, Kinnegad, Arnomullen

Castlejordan · townland · Meath · 1649–1650

Sir Charles Coote captured the settlements of Castlejordan, Kinnegad, and Arnomullen during the Cromwellian campaign, as listed among the recorded victories.

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Castlejordan, Kinnegad, and Arnomullen taken by Sir Charles Coote.
Trim was summoned, and some taken prisoners.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 138

Ardbraccan named for Lomman's brother Brocan

Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 432–500

A footnote explains that Brocan, brother of Lomman, gave his name to the Church of Ardbraccan, located among the Ui Borthim tribe of Meath.

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2 This was the Broccan after whom the Church of Ardbraccan is named. The Ui Borthim were a tribe inhabiting that district of Meath.
3 Cill Dunnigluinn is now called Kilgluin, and gives name to a townland in the parish of Balfeaghan in the Union of Moyglare. See O'Donovan's note, Annals of the Four Masters, A.D. 834

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is Ardbraccan, named for Brocan, the brother of Lomman. The Ui Borthim tribe inhabited this district of Meath, and the church here took its name from that Brocan.

Ardbraccan purchased from the king

Ardbraccan · townland · Meath

The sixth of the Kells charters records that Ardbraccan was purchased from the king, forming part of the church of Kells' estate.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is Ardbraccan, in Meath. The sixth of the Kells charters tells how this place was purchased from the king, and it formed part of the church of Kells' estate. That estate was quite a large one, judging by the surviving charter records, which also include a house lease in Kells and a parcel of land between the town and the river bought for 24 ounces of silver.

Bishop's residence at Ardbraccan

Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1592

The lease terms specified that hawks should be delivered to the Bishop of Meath at his house in Ardbraccan, indicating the bishop's residence there.

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All the lands in Westmeath belonging to this bishopric were demised by Bishop Jones on the ist of November, 1592, to Edward Malone for sixty-one years, he paying thereout ten beeves yearly, and preserving the young hawks of Goshawkes, falcons, and tassells, breeding in the woods of Clonmacnoise, half of which he is bound to deliver to the Bishop of Meath at his house in Ardbraccan, or to forfeit four pounds for every hawk that shall be stolen or otherwise negligently lost. But by reason of the continual felling of the great timber in those woods (for which the said lessee hath no licence granted him in the lease) the hawks within this year or two have forsaken the place, and so the bishop hath lost the benefit of that reservation.
l6o HISTORY OF THE DIOCESE OF MEATH

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 82

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here was the house of the Bishop of Meath back in 1592. That November, Bishop Jones leased all the bishopric's lands in Westmeath to Edward Malone for 61 years. Malone had to pay ten beeves yearly and preserve the young goshawks, falcons and tassells breeding in the woods of Clonmacnoise, delivering half of them to the bishop at his house here in Ardbraccan. If any hawk was stolen or negligently lost, the forfeiture was four pounds for each one. But the continual felling of the great timber in those woods drove the hawks away within a year or two, and the bishop lost the benefit of that reservation.

Bishop William Ouldhall buried at Ardbraccan

Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1459

William Ouldhall, a Carmelite of Norwich who became Bishop of Meath and served as Chancellor of Ireland, died in 1459 and was buried at Ardbraccan.

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After his death, William Ouldhall, a Carmelite of Norwich, was appointed, and held the See until 1459. During part of that time he was Chancellor of Ireland. He died and was buried at Ardbraccan.
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

Close to Ardbraccan, William Ouldhall was buried after his death in 1459. He was a Carmelite of Norwich who held the See of Meath and served for part of that time as Chancellor of Ireland.

Church sees at Trim, Clonard, Kells, Slane, Dunshaughlin and Fore

Trim · town · Meath

As tribal territories became more defined, small sees were established in Meath at Trim, Clonard, Kells, Slane, Dunshaughlin, and Fore, which were later incorporated into the Diocese of Meath. These later became rural deaneries.

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It was probably as a result of the troubles of these disturbed times that we find at this period a kind of transition from the old Irish system of independent bishops to something more nearly approaching diocesan episcopacy. Each bishop was still more tribal than diocesan ; but as the limits of the tribal territory became more clearly defined, the jurisdiction of the bishop became more and more restricted to a definite area. As a result, we find that in Meath a number of small sees were established. These afterwards became rural deaneries ; and as a matter of fact, the present rural deaneries of Meath very nearly coincide with the limits of the old bishoprics. Bishops were still occasionally to be found in some of the ecclesiastical establishments, taking their part in the monastic life, as of old, but it began to be recognised that certain districts were apportioned to the bishops residing in Trim, Clonard, Kells, Slane, Dunshaughlin, and Fore, all of which were afterwards incorporated in the Diocese of Meath. Clonmacnoise continued to be a separate bishopric up to the time of Henry VIII.
Meantime the Church, notwithstanding all its troubles, increased considerably in wealth. Those marauding chieftains who, when on a foray, were quite ready to attack a religious establishment, were exceedingly anxious, when they felt the approach of death, to make the way easy for themselves on their unknown journey, and for this end they were ready to make liberal donations, so as to secure for themselves a favourable reception in the world to come. Large grants of land were made in this way.

Internet Archive historyofdiocese01healiala, Chapter 27

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, you are in one of the old centres of church authority in Meath. In earlier centuries each bishop in Ireland was more tribal than diocesan, but as the limits of tribal territory became more clearly defined, a number of small sees were established. Bishops were recognised as having jurisdiction over districts centred on Trim, Clonard, Kells, Slane, Dunshaughlin, and Fore. All of these were afterwards incorporated into the Diocese of Meath, and they became rural deaneries whose boundaries very nearly coincide with the old bishoprics. Despite the troubles of those disturbed times, the Church increased considerably in wealth. Marauding chieftains who were ready enough to attack a religious establishment on a foray grew anxious when death approached. To secure what one source calls a favourable reception in the world to come, they made liberal donations, and large grants of land were made in this way.

History of the Diocese of Meath (vol. 1)

The stories, best first

Petition of poor Meath clerks for benefices amid plague and war

Ratoath: A Union of Twelve Former Parishes

Repeated Attacks on Kells by Leinstermen and Danes, 967-968

Saint Sechnall and the naming of Dunshaughlin

The Grey Friary of Trim

Two churches side by side at the Seven Churches, Clonmacnoise

Athboy church ruinous under Archbishop of Armagh's rectorship

Small castle attached to the church at Mayne

A boy of fifteen given the benefice of Trim parish

Ardmulchan church being rebuilt

Bishop of Clonard assumes title Bishop of Meath

Bishop of Clonmacnoise granted parish in commendam

Capuchins Introduced to Mullingar and Drogheda

Carmelite friary founded at Athboy in 1317

Churches seized at Kilbeggan, Ballyloughloe and Rathconrath

Franciscan Monastery of Slane

Garvey replaces deposed rector at Kells

Land at Donaghmore purchased by priest of Kells

Lord Broghill takes Oldcastle

Malachy's council held off the coast of Skerries

Mullingar monastery and Petit's Barony

Priest takes possession of Ballyboy church

Rector of Kells enjoyed a rich benefice

Reduction of Trim garrison

Silver chalice presented to Loughcrew church by Mr Duddell restored to use

Vicarage of Athlone held by 80-year-old David Malone

Barony of Kells and surrounding baronies 'quite wasted' by incursions

Capuchin abbey founded in the parish of St Mary's, Drogheda

Dunboyne, a great parish, church and chancel both ruined

Navan church in good repair, chancel ruinous

Nobber church, held by the bishop, found in ruin

Small castle at Rathconnell attached to chancel

Cistercian abbey De Flumine Dei at Kilbeggan

Donald Magluay's dual benefice at Rathwire and Castlerickard

Dublin boy holds Kilmessan benefice

Edward Southerne resident at Navan for safety

Horseman holds Galtrim benefice

Moynalty, Kilskyre, Girley and Donaghpatrick churches in ruin

New church erected at Athlone

Odder nunnery founded by the Barnwall family

Rector of Killare deprived for non-residence

Rectors of Trim and Galtrim among wealthiest livings

Round Towers at Donaghmore and Clonmacnoise

Saint Mary's, Drogheda, a great church indifferently repaired

See of Clonmacnoise united to Meath

Site of Navan abbey now cavalry barracks

Ambrose Jones presents church plate to Kells

Archdeaconry of Meath seated near Kells

Balsoon and Castlecor churches repaired after episcopal admonition

Birmingham succeeds at Kilberry

Bishop Erc's Hermitage on the Boyne near Slane

Bishop Peter Wall granted benefice of Ballyloughloe

Land near Kells purchased for silver, later the glebe

Robert Luttrell, Archdeacon of Meath and Rector of Kells and Kilberry

Sir Charles Coote takes Castlejordan, Kinnegad, Arnomullen

Ardbraccan named for Lomman's brother Brocan

Ardbraccan purchased from the king

Bishop's residence at Ardbraccan

Bishop William Ouldhall buried at Ardbraccan

Church sees at Trim, Clonard, Kells, Slane, Dunshaughlin and Fore