A history of the rise, progress, and supression of the rebellion in the county of Wexford, in the year 1798 : to which is annexed the author's account of his ca

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

1. Prisoners Marched from Tintern to Scullabogue

   Tintern · townland · Wexford · 1798

   A number of the men later murdered at Scullabogue had been marched there in one drove all the way from the village of Tintern, a distance of about eight miles, including some elderly people scarcely able to walk.

   Read the passage

   Those persons with a star, thus (*), after their names, throughout the whole, were brought from the village of Tintern to Scullabogue, in one drove, some of whom were very old and scarcely able to walk, the distance between both places being about eight miles.

   Many were concerned in shooting the above unfortunate men, and each vied with the other who should put the greatest number to death. Amongst those sanguinary heroes, stand most noted the names of Fardy, Sinnott, Redmond, and Miskella, who trampled on the wounded bodies, and behaved otherwise so cruelly, as to obtain for themselves the title of the " true born Romans." Fardy was since hanged at Scullabogue for various murders.

   Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 6

2. Rebels burn toll-house and cabins, hide their dead in flames

   Clonard · town · Meath · 1798

   During the siege at Clonard, the rebels set fire to the toll-house and nearby cabins near the bridge to confuse the garrison, and were seen throwing their own dead into the flames to hide the extent of their losses.

   Read the passage

   Having succeeded so well by the effect of conflagration, the enemy now set fire to the toll-house, and some other cabins on the left, near the bridge, for the purpose of embarrassing and confusing the garrison ; and during this operation, they were seen throwing their dead into the flames for the purpose of evading discovery. The unequal conflict had now lasted nearly six hours ; when, about five in the evening, the approach of succour was descried from the house, and the hopes of the brave garrison were so elevated, that they fought with renovated vigour.

   One of the yeomen who had been excluded by the sudden shutting of the gates in the morning, finding he could be of no use in defending the house, repaired to Kinnegad, and represented the alarming situation of his friends at Clonard ; upon which Lieutenant Houghton, ivith fourteen of the Kinnegad Infantry, and a sergeant, with eleven Northumberland Fencibles (this being all the force that could be spared), immediately marched to their succour. The pass by the bridge having been kept open in the manner before related, Lieutenant Tyrrell now

   Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 12

   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is the town of Clonard in Meath. In 1798, during the siege here, the rebels set fire to the toll-house and several cabins near the bridge to confuse and embarrass the garrison. During the burning, they were seen throwing their own dead into the flames to hide how many they had lost. The fighting had lasted nearly six hours when, around five in the evening, help was spotted approaching the house. The garrison's spirits rose so high they fought with new strength. One of the yeomen had been shut out when the gates closed that morning. He made his way to Kinnegad and reported the dire situation of his companions at Clonard. Lieutenant Houghton marched out with fourteen of the Kinnegad Infantry, and a sergeant with eleven Northumberland Fencibles. This was all the force that could be spared. The pass by the bridge had been kept open, and Lieutenant Tyrrell now held it.

3. Destruction of Carnew after rebel attack

   Carnew · town · Wicklow · 1798

   Knowing Carnew was weakly defended, the rebels attacked it after their victory at Bally Ellis, but were repulsed after two days by its yeomanry. The town was nonetheless destroyed in the fighting.

   Read the passage

   Dragoons, and eight of the yeomanry, with two loyalists who went out with the patrol, besides wounding many. The remainder passed on through Carnew, and by taking another route got back to Gorey. During this transaction, the Wingfield dismounted cavalry and infantry, under the command of Captain Go wan, came up with the rebels, and having no particular uniform, the enemy thought they were part of their own forces ; but the yeomanry, seeing their opportunity, attacked them with great spirit, killed a number of them, and then retreated to Gorey without the loss of a man. By the defeat of the patrol, the rebels acquired a supply of arms and ammunition ; and knowing that Carnew was in a feeble state of defence, they resolved on attacking it ; but after an uninterrupted contest of two days, they were repulsed by its gallant yeomanry, who killed a number of them, and drove the rest into the country. The town of Carnew was, however, destroyed.

   After this defeat, the rebels fixed their encampment on a large mountain called the White-heaps, which separates the counties of Wexford and Wicklow. Here they remained till the morning of the 5th of July, when two columns of the King's troops, under the command of Generals Sir James Duff and Needham arrived, with an intention to surround the. hill, and make a general attack. The rebels, having received intelligence of their purpose, moved off the hill early in the morning, but they were met by Sir James Duff's column, and after a few cannon shot retreated. Sir James pursued the flying enemy, but General Needham's column was at too great a distance for his infantry to assist ; however, his cavalry (which were chiefly yeomen) joined in the pursuit, which continued for twelve miles, when they were stopped by some rising grounds ; but the regiments under Sir James Duff coming up with their curricle guns, the rebels, after a short

   Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 12

4. Execution of Whiteboy ringleaders near Newtownbarry

   Newtownbarry · townland · Wexford · 1775

   Two Whiteboy leaders, Owen Carroll and John Daggan, were found guilty of a serious offence and executed near Newtownbarry. This followed a period of disturbances by the Whiteboys, who began their activities in 1774.

   Read the passage

   The White-boys, who were the first disturbers of this once peaceable county, made their appearance in the year 1774, and being members of the Church of Rome, they occasioned for some time a very serious alarm ; but by the activity and perseverance of the magistrates and loyal inhabitants, they were soon quelled, and two of the ringleaders, named Owen Carroll and John Daggan, were found guilty of some heinous offence, and executed near Newtownbarry, on the 28th of September, 1775. The practice of these depredators was to assemble in the night, dress themselves in white shirts, which were thrown over their clothes, seize all the horses they could find, then set off at full speed in great bodies to the destined place, and proceed to dig up the pastures, burn houses,

   8 History of the "Rebellion

   Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 2

5. Mass Imprisonment of Protestants in Wexford Gaol, Market-House and Barrack

   Wexford · town · Wexford · 1798

   With the gaol and market-house insufficient to hold the number of Protestant prisoners destined for slaughter, the barrack at Wexford was also converted into a prison, holding a total of 260 male Protestants.

   Read the passage

   gave them enough of potatoes, brown bread, and putrid meat. The gaol and market-house not being sufficient, the barrack was also converted into a prison ; for the number of male Protestants destined for the slaughter amounted to two hundred and sixty !

   It has been observed in the beginning of this history, that there was no military force in this county, save part of the North Cork militia, their head-quarters being at Wexford. Lord Kingsborough, who was colonel of the regiment, being in Dublin when the rebellion broke out, hastened to join them, taking with him a reinforcement of the Dumbarton fencible infantry, with two battalion guns. On their coming to Bray, they were informed that the rebels were in force at Newtown Mountkennedy, in the county of Wicklow ; they accordingly marched thither to attack them, which they did on the 30th of May, and defeated them, leaving a number killed on the field. Lord Kingsborough then proceeded to Wicklow, and hearing there that the communication from thence to Wexford was totally stopped, he determined to wait for the Dumbarton fencibles, and send an express by sea to Wexford to order the garrison to hold out, and that he with a strong reinforcement would march to their assistance as speedily as possible. Mr. Woodroofe, a revenue officer, and a few chosen men, were ordered on this expedition, and embarked immediately. On coming into the harbour of Wexford, to their astonishment they perceived the rebel flags flying in all parts of the town. The rebels, manning one of their cruisers, pursued Mr. Woodroofe and his companions till they came in sight of the Welsh coast, when they gave over the pursuit, and Mr. Woodroofe, with a great deal of trouble and fatigue, got into Wicklow the next morning. Lord Kingsborough, in the

   Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 7

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Wexford, you are moving through a town that in 1798 became a vast prison for its Protestant population. The gaol and market-house could not hold the numbers, so the barrack was converted into a prison as well. Two hundred and sixty male Protestants, all destined for slaughter, were confined across these buildings. They were fed potatoes, brown bread, and putrid meat. The town was under rebel control by then, its flags flying from every part of it, and no relief could get through. Lord Kingsborough, colonel of the North Cork militia based at Wexford, was in Dublin when the rebellion broke out. He hurried back with Dumbarton fencible infantry and two battalion guns, fought rebels at Newtown Mountkennedy on the 30th of May, and won. But the road to Wexford was cut. He sent a revenue officer, Mr Woodroofe, by sea to tell the garrison to hold out, promising a strong reinforcement. When Woodroofe reached the harbour, rebel flags flew across the town. A rebel cruiser chased him until he came in sight of the Welsh coast, and after great trouble he made it back to Wicklow the next morning.

6. Sectarian murder notice posted at Killashee church

   Killashee and Aghakeeran · townland · Longford · 1798

   A notice threatening the murder of Protestant "heretics" was posted on the church door of Killashee, County Longford, shortly after the French landed at Killala, calling for revenge against Protestants.

   Read the passage

   tyranny is expiring — no longer shall one govern four. The old holy religion shall be re-established in this house, and the earth shall no longer be burdened with bloody heretics, who, under the pretence of rebellion (which they themselves have raised), mean to massacre us.

   " The flow'r-de-luce and harp we will display, " While tyrant heretics shall moulder into clay."

   Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 12

7. Thomas Dixon threatens vengeance on reprieved prisoners

   Wexford · town · Wexford · 1798

   On returning from the bridge, the rescued prisoners encountered the rebel Thomas Dixon, who was angered that Father Corrin had begged them off and vowed he would still have satisfaction from every man.

   Read the passage

   tyrannical rebel, Thomas Dixon, who anxiously desired to know why we were brought back ? Mr. Corrin told him he had begged us off for the present. Dixon was very much displeased with Mr. Corrin, and intimated he would have satisfaction of us, every man.

   In this critical juncture, as our Church most beautifully describes, " The peace of God which passeth all understanding," kept my heart and mind in the knowledge and love of God, and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, was with me of a truth. I thought long before this I should hear the harpers harping with their harps, and see the face of Him whom my soul loveth, without a vail between ; but my warfare in this vale of tears is not yet over, therefore I need the prayers of the children of God, to keep me without spot or blemish against the appearing of the Son of Man.

   Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 13

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Wexford town, you are on the ground where rescued prisoners were marched back from the bridge in 1798. Mr. Corrin had begged them off, but the rebel Thomas Dixon was angry and demanded to know why they had been brought back. He told Corrin he would have satisfaction of them, every man. One of the prisoners wrote that in that moment he expected to die, but that the peace of God kept his heart and mind. He thought he would soon see the face of Him whom his soul loved, yet his warfare was not yet over.

8. Widows witness murder of husbands near Castlebridge and Kilmuckridge

   Castlebridge · town · Wexford · 1798

   Men were torn from their families and murdered before their eyes during the rebel hunt for Protestants. The widow Carley near Castlebridge and the widow Grindly near Kilmuckridge were cited as witnesses to this cruelty.

   Read the passage

   At Gorey the rebels had an immense camp, from whence they made various excursions through the country in search of Protestants, whom on discovery they forced from their homes, and confined in the assembly-room over the market-house. In this religious hunt there was no respect paid to old age : and among many of this description were William Bryan of Coolook, near Ballycanow, aged seventy ; and William Atkins, of Curraclough, near Wexford, aged eighty. Such of the Protestants as could escape availed themselves of the opportunity, and fled from various parts to the fortified towns. Arklow gave shelter to hundreds of these poor refugees, and the small town of Wicklow to no less than one thousand and sixty! Many who could not leave their families were in a pitiable situation ; day after day the men were torn from the arms of their beloved wives and children, or distracted mothers and sisters, and murdered before their eyes. The widow Carley, near Castlebridge, and the widow Grindly, near Kilmuckridge, are woeful witnesses of this melancholy truth.

   In this camp all manner of abominations were committed, and as it swarmed with women of ill-fame, they set no bounds to their lewdness ; and yet such was the blindness of their minds, as to imagine that the extraordinary fine weather which continued so long, was sent by the Almighty to favour their cause. They would say, " God is on our side, the heretics have had dominion long enough, but our time is now come." It was also their opinion that no rain would fall until they had finally conquered. Though they were expert at the pike, which in general was from nine to fourteen feet long, they scarcely knew anything of the musquet; often when they cocked their pieces, they knew not how to uncock

   Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 9

9. Elderly Protestants seized at Gorey rebel camp

   Gorey · town · Wexford · 1798

   The rebel camp at Gorey sent excursions through the countryside to seize Protestants, showing no respect for old age. Among those captured were William Bryan of Coolook, aged seventy, and William Atkins of Curraclough, aged eighty.

   Read the passage

   At Gorey the rebels had an immense camp, from whence they made various excursions through the country in search of Protestants, whom on discovery they forced from their homes, and confined in the assembly-room over the market-house. In this religious hunt there was no respect paid to old age : and among many of this description were William Bryan of Coolook, near Ballycanow, aged seventy ; and William Atkins, of Curraclough, near Wexford, aged eighty. Such of the Protestants as could escape availed themselves of the opportunity, and fled from various parts to the fortified towns. Arklow gave shelter to hundreds of these poor refugees, and the small town of Wicklow to no less than one thousand and sixty! Many who could not leave their families were in a pitiable situation ; day after day the men were torn from the arms of their beloved wives and children, or distracted mothers and sisters, and murdered before their eyes. The widow Carley, near Castlebridge, and the widow Grindly, near Kilmuckridge, are woeful witnesses of this melancholy truth.

   In this camp all manner of abominations were committed, and as it swarmed with women of ill-fame, they set no bounds to their lewdness ; and yet such was the blindness of their minds, as to imagine that the extraordinary fine weather which continued so long, was sent by the Almighty to favour their cause. They would say, " God is on our side, the heretics have had dominion long enough, but our time is now come." It was also their opinion that no rain would fall until they had finally conquered. Though they were expert at the pike, which in general was from nine to fourteen feet long, they scarcely knew anything of the musquet; often when they cocked their pieces, they knew not how to uncock

   Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 9

   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is the town of Gorey, in Wexford. In 1798 the rebels had an immense camp here, and from it they made excursions through the country in search of Protestants. When they found them they forced them from their homes and confined them in the assembly-room over the market-house. In this religious hunt there was no respect paid to old age. Among the many taken were William Bryan of Coolook, near Ballycanow, aged seventy, and William Atkins of Curraclough, near Wexford, aged eighty. Such Protestants as could escape fled to the fortified towns. Arklow gave shelter to hundreds of these poor refugees, and the small town of Wicklow to no less than 1,060. Many who could not leave their families were in a pitiable situation. Day after day men were torn from the arms of their wives and children, or distracted mothers and sisters, and murdered before their eyes. The widow Carley, near Castlebridge, and the widow Grindly, near Kilmuckridge, are woeful witnesses of this. In the camp all manner of abominations were committed. They would say, "God is on our side, the heretics have had dominion long enough, but our time is now come." They were expert at the pike, which was from nine to fourteen feet long, but they scarcely knew anything of the musket. Often when they cocked their pieces, they knew not how to uncock them.

10. Execution of five Defenders after Wexford assizes

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1798

    Following the failed attack on Wexford town, several Defenders were captured. Five of them—James Kenney, Patrick Flannery, Patrick Neil, Michael Carty, and John Crawford—were found guilty at the ensuing assizes and executed.

    Read the passage

    thick part of his thigh, so deeply as to extend to the groin and enter into the cavity of the abdomen. The soldiers seeing their beloved commander fall, fired without the order of the magistrates, and advancing on the rebels, put them to flight, the latter leaving nearly eighty of their associates dead on the spot, besides a number who afterwards died of the wounds they had received. Lieutenant Buckby happily escaped, and in the confusion joined the military. Many of the Defenders were made prisoners, five of whom, James Kenney, Patrick Flannery, Patrick Neil, Michael Carty, and John Crawford, were found guilty at the ensuing assizes and executed.

    The loyal inhabitants of Wexford were deeply affected at the tragic end of Major Valotton ; and to show their respect for his memory erected a monument in the church, with the following inscription :—

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Wexford, this town saw the aftermath of a failed rebel attack in 1798. After soldiers put the rebels to flight, leaving nearly 80 dead on the spot, many Defenders were taken prisoner. Five of them—James Kenney, Patrick Flannery, Patrick Neil, Michael Carty, and John Crawford—were found guilty at the assizes and executed.

11. Execution of William Byrne of Ballymanus at Wicklow

    Wicklow · townland · Wicklow · 1799

    William Byrne of Ballymanus surrendered on condition of transportation, but as it was proved he was involved in murders during the rebellion, he was tried by court-martial in Wicklow, found guilty and executed there on 26 September 1799.

    Read the passage

    Perry and priest Reams made their escape into the King's County, and remained there but a few days, when they were taken by two of the Edenderry yeomen, brought prisoners to Edenderry, and after being tried by courtmartial, were executed on the 21st of July. Aylmer and Fitzgerald, with thirteen other rebel leaders, gave themselves up, on condition of being transported, which accordingly took place. Garret and William Byrne, of Ballymanus, also surrendered on the above condition ; the former was transported, but as it was proved that the latter was concerned in various murders during the rebellion, he was tried by court-martial in Wicklow, found

    140 History of the Eebellion

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 12

12. Forced Baptism of Protestants in Wexford Gaol

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1798

    Father John Broe, a friar, was constantly employed in the gaol at Wexford baptising Protestant prisoners, issuing certificates declaring them to have 'done his duty' and proved himself Catholic, as a form of temporary protection.

    Read the passage

    This priest was constantly in the gaol baptising; and after the battle of Ross, he made it his business to walk round the town of Wexford, seeking persons able to carry a pike, to repair to camp. Baptizing the heretics was not confined to Wexford ; it was also common on Vinegar-hill, and through all the camps in the county. It was no more than a temporary protection, while they were doubtful of their cause ; for it is well known that even their proselytes would have been put to death if they had prevailed. The following protection was given by Bryan Murphy,* parish priest of Taghmon :

    "Mr. A B has complied with every condition

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 7

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Wexford, the town holds a grim piece of 1798 history. Father John Broe, a friar, was constantly in the gaol here baptising Protestant prisoners. After the battle of Ross, he walked round the town seeking men able to carry a pike to repair to camp. The baptising was not confined to Wexford. It was common on Vinegar Hill and through all the camps in the county. It was no more than a temporary protection, while they were doubtful of their cause, for even their proselytes would have been put to death if they had prevailed. Bryan Murphy, parish priest of Taghmon, also issued a protection that began, "Mr. A B has complied with every condition."

13. Old prisoner shot on the bridge at Wexford

    Wexford Bridge · street · Wexford · 1798

    Among those killed on the day of the massacre was an elderly fellow-prisoner who had earlier threatened to bite the narrator's tongue off for praying aloud; he was shot on the bridge.

    Read the passage

    When we were brought back, I wept from the fulness of my heart, and prayed for those who were thirsting after my blood. The Lord was my deliverer ; but the poor old man who could have bit my tongue off, was shot on the bridge on this sanguinary day. Out of [the forty-eight prisoners in the market-house, only eighteen were left; and as they did not think it worth while to keep a guard over so few, they brought us back to the gaol ; but took the greatest care to have the door and yard well secured. I passed a very restless night, and at the dawn of day, to my great surprise, I felt the floor and foundation of the prison shake ; starting up to know what it could be, I heard the roaring of cannon. I concluded there must be an engagement, and knowing that the rebels had many fieldpieces, I was greatly afraid it was only a few soldiers who had come from Boss, or elsewhere, to engage them ; and

    In County Wexford. 165

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 13

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on Wexford Bridge, in 1798, an old prisoner was shot on what the narrator calls this sanguinary day. He was one of forty-eight prisoners held in the market-house, and he had earlier threatened to bite the narrator's tongue off for praying aloud. The narrator wept and prayed for those thirsting after his blood, and the Lord was his deliverer, but the old man was killed here on the bridge. Only eighteen of the forty-eight prisoners survived. The survivors were brought back to the gaol, the door and yard well secured, and the narrator passed a restless night. At dawn he felt the floor shake and heard the roaring of cannon, and feared that only a few soldiers had come to engage the rebels and their many field-pieces.

14. Torture of Protestant prisoners on Vinegar Hill after Enniscorthy

    near Vinegar Hill · hill or hills · Wexford · 1798

    Richard Sterne testified he was later brought to Vinegar Hill with many other Protestants where his fellow prisoners were murdered, though he himself was spared through a protection obtained from a friend.

    Read the passage

    Protestants, to end their wretched existence ; that all his fellow prisoners were murdered, but that he was spared by obtaining a protection from an old friend in power, brother to one of the priests." Thus this poor old man providentially escaped to make the above affidavit of the barbarous treatment which he received.

    The following distressing account was delivered by Edward Stacy, of Mangan, of whose veracity there can be no doubt :

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 10

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Vinegar Hill in Wexford. In 1798, Richard Sterne was brought here with many other Protestant prisoners after Enniscorthy. His fellow prisoners were murdered, but he was spared by obtaining a protection from an old friend in power, brother to one of the priests.

15. Betrayal Killing of Edward Slye

    Enniscorthy · townland · Wexford · 1798

    During the massacre following the fall of Enniscorthy, Edward Slye was shot dead by his own neighbour William Lee while in the act of handing him a quart of beer.

    Read the passage

    Now parents parted their children, and children their parents ; husbands their wives, and wives their husbands, never to meet more. For many of the yeomen and loyalists who were wounded would probably have recovered, but that they were murdered by the merciless pikemen. Many more, whom the tender ties of nature caused to cling to their wives and children, hoped for mercy from some of their neighbours ; but alas ! there was no such thing. No mercy for any man who bore the name of Protestant, from the age of fifteen and upwards. And some even under that age were put to death. The Rev. Samuel Haydon, rector of Ferns, a very old man, was murdered, and thrown out to be devoured by swine. Richard Whealy, a lock-smith, near one hundred years old, also fell a victim to their cruelty. The massacre became general as soon as they got possession of the town. Some were immolated in the act of giving them freely of their own liquor ; as an instance, Edward Slye was shot by his neighbour, William Lee, while handing him a quart of beer. Many were torn out of the arms of their wives, and murdered before them in the most barbarous manner ; nor were those women even permitted to bury their slaughtered husbands. Smoke and flames, blood and slaughter, shouting and blasphemy, now triumphed in the desolation of this unfortunate town.

    Terrible was the alarm in Wexford when the unhappy fugitives arrived with the dismal tidings. An immediate attack on the town being looked for, every exertion was made for its defence. Barriers of wood and stone were erected in all the leading passes ; regular cavalry picquets patroled the roads for two or three miles, and all the loyalists volunteered to defend it. They were stationed at the different barriers, with the Wexford infantry,

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 4

16. Body of Murphy Thrown into the River at Wexford Quay

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1798

    After his execution, the lifeless body of the man Murphy was dragged by three compelled Protestant prisoners to the quay at Wexford and thrown into the river.

    Read the passage

    No sooner had the rebel senate sat, than they were determined on the destruction of such as did not favour their cause. One Murphy, a Roman Catholic, who had been gardener to Mr. Edwards, of Ballyhire, was at this time taken prisoner, and brought to Wexford. He had formerly been a witness against one Dixon, a priest, a notorious traitor, who was sentenced to transportation for administering the United oath to several persons. For this crime the unfortunate Murphy was sentenced to be shot, on Sunday, the third of June ; and such was the detestation of him entertained by the rebels, that in order to increase the ignominy of his death, they had him executed by Protestants who were also prisoners in the gaol. Middleton Bobson, a gauger, Robert Pigott, a surveyor of excise, and Richard Julian, a gauger, were the persons appointed to execute the sentence. After celebrating mass, and receiving their directions, Thomas Dixon, a near relation to the priest, was appointed to conduct this awful business. He was the most barbarous man to defenceless persons that ever existed, but a greater coward in battle could not be. He had the prisoner brought to the bull-ring, and Mr. Robson being ordered to fire, the unfortunate man fell dead ; when Dixon ran and thrust his sword in the back of his neck, then drawing it forth, held it up to the view of the mob, desiring them to "Behold the blood of a traitor!" At this time John Edwards, a Protestant, and land -steward to the above Mr. Edwards, was brought into the crowd to be murdered, but Dixon, to show his hatred to Murphy, " declared upon his honor, no other man should suffer that day." Robson, Pigott, and Julian were compelled to drag the lifeless body to the quay, and throw it into the river. Robson and Edwards were massacred

    In County Wexford. 73

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 7

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Wexford now. In 1798, this was the town where a man called Murphy met his end, and where his body was dragged to the quay and thrown into the river. Murphy was a Roman Catholic, a gardener to Mr. Edwards of Ballyhire. He had once been a witness against a priest called Dixon, a man sentenced to transportation for administering the United oath to several persons. For that, the rebels hated him. He was taken prisoner and brought to Wexford, and sentenced to be shot on Sunday the 3rd of June. To increase the shame of his death, the rebels had him executed by Protestants who were themselves prisoners. Middleton Bobson, a gauger, Robert Pigott, a surveyor of excise, and Richard Julian, also a gauger, were the men appointed. Thomas Dixon, a near relation of the priest, was appointed to conduct the business. He was described as the most barbarous man to defenceless persons that ever existed, but a greater coward in battle could not be. Murphy was brought to the bull-ring. Robson was ordered to fire, and Murphy fell dead. Dixon ran and thrust his sword into the back of the dead man's neck, then drew it out and held it up to the crowd, saying, "Behold the blood of a traitor!" At that moment, a Protestant named John Edwards, a land-steward, was brought into the crowd to be murdered. But Dixon, to show his hatred for Murphy, declared upon his honor that no other man should suffer that day. After the execution, Robson, Pigott, and Julian were compelled to drag Murphy's lifeless body to the quay here in Wexford and throw it into the river.

17. Execution of Perry and priest Reams at Edenderry

    Edenderry · town · Offaly · 1798

    Perry and priest Reams, having fled to King's County, were captured by two Edenderry yeomen, brought as prisoners to Edenderry, tried by court-martial and executed on 21 July.

    Read the passage

    Perry and priest Reams made their escape into the King's County, and remained there but a few days, when they were taken by two of the Edenderry yeomen, brought prisoners to Edenderry, and after being tried by courtmartial, were executed on the 21st of July. Aylmer and Fitzgerald, with thirteen other rebel leaders, gave themselves up, on condition of being transported, which accordingly took place. Garret and William Byrne, of Ballymanus, also surrendered on the above condition ; the former was transported, but as it was proved that the latter was concerned in various murders during the rebellion, he was tried by court-martial in Wicklow, found

    140 History of the Eebellion

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 12

18. Popish articles of faith found on Priest Murphy's body

    Arklow · town · Wicklow · 1798

    A set of extreme sectarian articles justifying persecution of heretics was reportedly found in the pocket of Priest Murphy after he was killed at the Battle of Arklow, including justification of massacre and driving heretics from the land.

    Read the passage

    6th. We are bound to believe that the late holy massacre was lawful, and justly put into execution against Protestants, and that we should continue the same as long as we can do it with safety to ourselves.

    7th. We are bound to curse, ring the bells, and put out the candles four times in each year on heretics.

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 9

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through the town of Arklow, this is where the battle was fought in 1798. After Priest Murphy was killed here, papers were reportedly found in his pocket. One declared that believers were bound to hold that a holy massacre against Protestants was lawful and should continue. Another ordered cursing heretics and putting out candles four times a year.

19. Prisoners' heads shorn and pitch-capped at Gorey

    Gorey · town · Wexford · 1798

    At the Gorey guard-house, prisoners had their hair cut off and pitched caps placed on their heads before being displayed to the marching rebels as they departed to attack Arklow.

    Read the passage

    At night, when the prisoners were about to lie down, I asked the guards would they give me leave to pray with them, as people of every persuasion should pray if they expected to be saved ; with which they complied ; and I prayed with and exhorted them to keep their hearts engaged with God. Though Papists, they appeared affected, and seemed much attached to me, nor would they admit me to sit among the prisoners any more, but made me go among themselves, and sent in a good character of me to their officers. God was indeed very kind to me here ; for the next morning they cut the hair off the prisoners' heads, and put pitched caps on them all ; but they meddled not with me ; though even a minister of the Church of England, who was a fellow prisoner, was served the same way. On Saturday, the 9th of June, the whole body of the rebels prepared to attack Arklow, and as they marched from the camp through the town, the guards thrust the prisoners half out of the windows, that the insurgents might see their heads shorn and pitched ; at which they shouted so loud that it seemed to pierce the very skies.

    During my confinement many and great were the exercises of my mind on the present state of the country. I was frequently afraid that God was going to let the wicked loose, to sweep professors of religion away, because

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 13

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Gorey, you are on ground where, in 1798, prisoners were held at the guard-house before the rebel march on Arklow. One prisoner, a clergyman, asked the guards if he might pray with the men, and they let him. The guards were so taken with him that they would not let him sit among the prisoners any longer, and sent a good character of him to their officers. The next morning they cut the hair off every prisoner's head and put pitched caps on them all, but they did not touch him, though even a minister of the Church of England among the captives was treated the same way. On Saturday the 9th of June the whole body of rebels prepared to attack Arklow, and as they marched from the camp through the town, the guards thrust the prisoners half out the windows so the insurgents could see their shorn and pitched heads, at which they shouted so loud it seemed to pierce the very skies.

20. Tomb of John Moore at Carnagh graveyard

    Carnagh · townland · Wexford · 1798

    The friends of the slain rebel leader John Moore raised a tomb to him in the graveyard of Carnagh near New Ross, with an inscribed epitaph describing his death and burial.

    Read the passage

    The Defenders were headed that day by a man of a very resolute and undaunted disposition, named John Moore, a farmer, who resided within a few miles of New Boss. This man, on the first fire from the military, had both his legs broken ; yet so very zealous was he in the cause, that he fought on the stumps, till he was left alone and shot. There was also a priest killed, in whose pocket were found the articles of the Popish faith. As the Corporation of Wexford erected a monument to the memory of Major Valotton, so the friends of Moore, the rebel leader, raised a tomb to him in the grave yard of Carnagh, near New Boss, bearing the following inscription :—

    Underneath this stone doth lie

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 3

21. Colonel Ram's house burning at Clonattin

    Clonattin · street · Wexford · 1798

    As the narrator approached Gorey he saw Colonel Ram's house at Clonattin ablaze, with smoke rising like from a furnace, part of the widespread burning of Protestant houses during the rebellion.

    Read the passage

    much comforted ; and I found also the first book of Samuel, 2nd chapter, very precious, particularly the 9th and 10th verses : " He will keep the feet of His saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness ; for by strength shall no man prevail. The adversaries of the Lord shall be broken to pieces : out of heaven shall He thunder upon them ; the Lord shall judge the ends of the earth, and He shall give strength unto His King, and exalt the horn of His annointed." I had much comfort also in reading the 54th of Isaiah ; and thus after leaving this place my mind was more strengthened in the Lord. This was the day on which the battle of Ross was fought. I then proceeded towards Gorey, when four or five persons whom I knew not, overtook me, and seemed as if they would bear me company thither. Not knowing what they would do with me when we arrived there, I was resolved to separate from them if possible. As we drew near the town I saw Colonel Ram's house at Clonattin burning, and the smoke of it ascended as the smoke of a furnace. My feet being sore with walking, I sat down as if to examine them, intending that they should go on without me, which they did. Being alone I arose, and turned to the left, to go home another way, not wishing to venture into Gorey, as it was full of rebels. Passing a little cabin, a man with a green ribbon round his hat asked me in a menacing voice who I was, and where I was going. I told him without any reserve, and asked him what way I should go to avoid the rebels ; he gave me the best advice he could ; it was well meant, but I did not like to follow it. Another neighbour of his coming up, we asked his counsel : he desired me to stay at his house till night, when I might get his horse and go home with safety, as the United men were all to be in camp after a certain hour (I believe nine o'clock). This plan I approved of, and could not but wonder at the good

    In County Wexford. 151

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 13

    As the companion tells it

    Along here at Clonattin, Colonel Ram's house stood, and in 1798 it was burning. The narrator was making his way towards Gorey when he saw it ablaze, the smoke ascending as the smoke of a furnace. He had been comforted that day by scripture, the first book of Samuel and the 54th chapter of Isaiah, and his mind was strengthened. It was the day the battle of Ross was fought. Four or five strangers overtook him on the road, seeming to bear him company towards Gorey. Not knowing what they would do with him when they arrived, he resolved to separate from them if he could. His feet were sore with walking, so he sat down as if to examine them, and the strangers went on without him. Alone, he turned to the left, to go home another way, not wishing to venture into Gorey, as it was full of rebels. Passing a little cabin, a man with a green ribbon round his hat asked him in a menacing voice who he was and where he was going. He told him without reserve and asked what way he should go to avoid the rebels. The man gave the best advice he could, well meant but not followed. Another neighbour came up, and counselled him to stay at his house till night, when he might get his horse and go home with safety, as the United men were all to be in camp after a certain hour, believed to be nine o'clock.

22. Pilgrimage and Penance Traditions at Lady's Island

    Lady's Island · townland · Wexford

    Lady's Island was celebrated for its ancient sanctity among Roman Catholics, who came on pilgrimage from all parts to perform penance by walking around the island three times while repeating prayers in the churchyard.

    Read the passage

    In the barony of Forth, all the Protestants were ordered to the chapels to be baptized. Father Mun Stafford, parish priest of the Lady's Island, usually had a crowded congregation. Lady's Island is greatly celebrated for its ancient sanctity, by all of the popish persuasion in the kingdom ; they come on pilgrimage to it from all parts to do

    * There were six priests of the name of Murphy in the county of Wexford, more or less concerned in the rebellion ; Eadmus, Edward, James, Bryan, John, and Michael.

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 7

23. Wexford gaol crowded with Protestant prisoners

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1798

    The narrator was imprisoned in Wexford gaol, described as a strong building holding only Protestants whose religion alone was deemed their crime, with severe deprivation of food.

    Read the passage

    The gaol is a very strong building ; it had, I believe, never such a number of innocent inhabitants before. No person was confined here but Protestants, and their religion alone was their crime ! ! There were men of very genteel circumstances shut up in this prison ; the rebels at the same time doing what they pleased with their property. Here I had the severest trials I had yet experienced, being forty-eight hours without eating anything save potatoes and water, while my bed was the floor. The prison at length became so crowded that the rebel committee, otherwise the " committee of public safety," thought it expedient that some of us should be sent to the market-house ; for, as the weather was intensely warm, they were afraid it would breed an infection. Some may conclude from this that they did not wish the death of the prisoners ; in answer to which I shall declare what I heard one of their captains say, " That it was their intention to keep us safe till they should see the event of the war ; for Hjtheir) victory declared in favour of the King's forces, they might hope for pardon if our lives were spared ; but, on the

    In County Wexford. 159

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 13

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Wexford town, you are on ground where, in 1798, the gaol held people whose only offence was being Protestant. The narrator, a prisoner there, called it a very strong building, and said it had never had so many innocent inhabitants. No one was confined there but Protestants, and their religion alone was their crime. Men of very genteel circumstances were shut up in that prison while the rebels did what they pleased with their property. He endured the severest trials he had yet experienced, going forty-eight hours eating nothing but potatoes and water, with the floor for his bed. The prison became so crowded that the rebel committee, otherwise the committee of public safety, decided some prisoners should be sent to the market-house. The weather was intensely warm and they feared infection. Yet one of their captains said the intention was to keep the prisoners safe until they saw the event of the war. If victory declared in favour of the King's forces, they might hope for pardon if the prisoners' lives were spared.

24. Monument to Major Valotton in Wexford church

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1798

    The loyal inhabitants of Wexford, grieved by the death of Major Valotton, erected a monument to his memory in the church to commemorate his character and sacrifice.

    Read the passage

    The loyal inhabitants of Wexford were deeply affected at the tragic end of Major Valotton ; and to show their respect for his memory erected a monument in the church, with the following inscription :—

    Sacred to the Memory of the late

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Wexford, there is a monument in the church to Major Valotton. In 1798 the loyal inhabitants of the town, deeply affected by his tragic end, erected it to show their respect for his memory. The inscription is, in the words of the source, "Sacred to the Memory of the late" Major Valotton.

25. Death of rebel leader Hacket near Arklow

    Arklow · town · Wicklow · 1798–1799

    Hacket, second in command after Holt, continued committing robberies for some time but eventually lost his life while attacking a gentleman's house near Arklow.

    Read the passage

    Holt, tired at length of a rebellious life, surrendered himself on condition of being transported, which accordingly took place. Hacket, the next in command, stood out for some time longer, committing many robberies, but at length he lost his life in attacking a gentleman's house near Arklow.

    In County Wexford. 141

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 12

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Arklow, this town connects to the end of the Wexford rebellion. After Holt surrendered on condition of transport, Hacket, his second in command, held out longer. He kept committing robberies through 1798 and into 1799, until he lost his life attacking a gentleman's house near this town.

26. Forced march of pinioned prisoners through Oulart

    Oulart · town · Wexford · 1798

    Nineteen prisoners, pinioned and coupled together, were marched from Gorey to Oulart, arriving near eleven at night to be confined overnight in an outhouse with only straw to lie on and their arms still bound.

    Read the passage

    The captain who tried us, when he found that I had deserted his service, as he called it, was very angry, and ordered me to be pinioned. The rest of my fellowsufferers being served in like manner, and being bound together, two and two, we were marched in procession to Oulart, eleven miles distant. It was near eleven o'clock at night when we arrived at the inn, and were turned into

    In County Wexford. 157

    Internet Archive historyofrisepro00tayluoft, Chapter 13