History of Sligo, county and town, from the close of the Revolution of 1688 to the present time

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. Ballina identified as headquarters of the Threshers

   Ballina · town · Tipperary · 1806

   In 1806, Lady Morgan recorded that Ballina and its neighbourhood had been the headquarters of the Threshers secret society. The Threshers were then active against tithe-proctors and had barricaded a priest in his chapel to force him to lower his dues.

   Read the passage

   In 1806 Lady Morgan, then Miss Owenson, thus describes an interview she had with a Sligo peasant relative to the dispute about tithes. " He was going to Sligo for some grains for a sick cow, not being able, he said, to procure any at Ballina, whence he had just come. As Ballina and its neighbourhood had been the head-quarters of the Threshers, I made some inquiries lelative to their operations. ' Why,' replied he, ' they are busy enough at present with the tithe- proctors ; and they have barred a priest out of his chapel in the hope of making him lower his dues, threatening to go to church if he does not, not being able to pay both priest and minister, since the proctors have raised the tithes and the priest his dues. For my own part church or mass is all one to me.'"

   In former times the clergymen of the Irish Church, as by law established, derived the principal part of their income from tithes, which were in the last century generally taken in kind — from wheat, barley, oats, flax, wool, hay, &c. The usual mode of collecting tithes at the commencement of this century was by an agent, called a proctor, who, immediately before harvest, estimated the quantity of coru, hay, or flax, which he supposed then to be on the ground, and — charging the market price — ascertained the amount to be paid by the owner. In some cases the incumbent let his tithe as he might a farm, and the money was collected from the occupier ; but very frequently the lessee re-let the tithe to another, and the former was then styled the middle proctor. In Sligo it was customary previous to harvest to call a sale, at which the tithe was disposed of to any person who chose to buy it ; but in this manner it would sell for little, did not the temptation of a promissory-note at six months induce persons to bid. According to Cobbett's Parliamentanj Debates there were 146 actions respecting tithe tried in the year 1807 at the Quarter Sessions in the County Sligo.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 163

   As the companion tells it

   Sligo town is ahead on the road. In 1806, Lady Morgan, then Miss Owenson, had an interview here with a Sligo peasant about tithes. He was going to Sligo for grains for a sick cow, not able to find any at Ballina, where he had just come from. She asked about the Threshers, since Ballina had been their head-quarters. He said they were busy enough with the tithe proctors, and had barred a priest out of his chapel to force him to lower his dues, threatening to go to the Protestant church if he did not. They could not pay both priest and minister, since the proctors had raised the tithes and the priest his dues. He told her, in his own words, that church or mass was all one to him. The clergy of the Irish Church drew their income from tithes taken in kind — wheat, barley, oats, flax, wool, hay. A proctor estimated the crop before harvest, charged the market price, and fixed what the owner owed. Sometimes the incumbent let the tithe like a farm, and the lessee re-let it to another, called a middle proctor. In Sligo it was customary before harvest to hold a sale, where the tithe went to whoever would buy it. It would sell for little, but a promissory note at six months tempted people to bid. There were 146 actions about tithes tried in 1807 at the Quarter Sessions in County Sligo.

2. Ballysummaghan cursing stones and ritual

   Ballysumaghan · townland · Sligo

   In the townland of Ballysummaghan there were originally seven stones called the Summaghan stones, used for cursing ceremonies performed barefoot and bareheaded. The stones were said to have been thrown into a neighbouring lake yet found back in place the next morning. The last reported victims were members of the O'Summaghan family, cursed after a firkin of butter was stolen.

   Read the passage

   In the townland of Ballysummaghau there were originally seven stones styled " the Summaghan stones." These were used for the purpose of cursing, and the ceremony appears to have closely resembled that observed on Inismurray, though, in addition, the postulant was required to go through the performance barefooted and bareheaded. These stones are said to have been cast into the neighbouring lake, yet were found next morning in their accustomed place. About two miles distant, in Barroe, near Bloomfield, there was a similar set of stones. Under the shade of some ash trees is the dried-up site of a holy well; for owing to its profanation by unbelievers in its sanctity, the waters broke out in another spot. Both here and at Ballysummaghau the stones have now disappeared. The two cursing sites seem to have been the special heritage of the Summaghan family. It is recounted that the last victims were members of the sept. The O'Summaghan missed a firkin of butter, and accused one of his neighbours of the larceny, which was stoutly denied. O'Summaghan then " performed stations " at Barroe and at Ballysummaghau, but with an unexpected result. His wife and son botli died — for it was his wife who, being in debt, had, with the aid of her son, abstracted the firkin of butter, conveyed it into Sligo, and sold it to pay her bills. One mode of averting the curse was for the person against whom " the stones were turned " to have a grave dug, to cause himself to

   1 For a detailed account by W. F. Wakcman, oi this iutcresting subject see vol. vii., Journal, li. Jtl. A. A. I.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 183

3. Magician's cow turned to stone near Kilross

   Kilross · townland · Sligo

   A native of Kilross recounted a legend of a celebrated magician at Killeran whose prosperous cow was stolen by a neighbour and his son. The magician overtook the thieves at the foot of the mountain and struck cow and thieves with his wand, metamorphosing them into stone pillars that remain standing.

   Read the passage

   struck the cow and the thieves with it, thereby metamorphosing them into stone. In the centre stands the thief (represented by a pillar-stone more than six feet high by two broad) ; near him is the boy, of lesser proportions (three feet six inches) ; lying prostrate is another slab which represents the cow.

   On the mountain overlooking the scene of this catastrophe lived a giantess named Yeragh. She was so tall that she could easily wade the rivers and lakes in Ireland. One day, however, when trying to cross Loch-da-ghedh, it proved to be beyond her depth, and she was drowned ; but her house on the mountain still remains, and is styled Calliagh-a-Veragh} This lake has the reputation of being the deepest in the County Sligo. One countryman stated that there is an underground outlet from it ; and if anything were thrown into it " it would come out at the bridge of Denmark !" Another recounted that it was once essayed to drain it for the purpose of recovering the treasure at the bottom, which was guarded by a huge monster ; but when the workmen commenced operations they imagined they saw their homesteads on the plain all in flames, and, going down to extinguish them, found it was the " good people " who had deceived them. When they returned to their work the trench they had made to draw off the water was filled up.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 179

4. Special commission tries Threshers in Sligo, 1806

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1806

   At the close of 1806, a special commission was opened in Sligo to try members of the Threshers secret society, who intimidated persons they believed had overpaid priests for church rites by dragging them from bed and carding them.

   Read the passage

   During the first quarter of this century two secret societies existed which had for object the curtailment of the fees payable to the Eoman Catholic clergy for performing marriages, baptisms, and other rites of their Church. This movement might probably have been successful had the agitation been confined to strictly legal measures ; but the persons who thus attempted to "fix a fair rent " on the clergy proceeded to such extremities that they placed themselves within the meshes of the law ; and a special commission was opened in Sligo, at the close of the year 1806, for the purpose of trying some of these agitators— then designated " Threshers " — who were in the habit of visiting the house of any person who had (as they considered) paid too much to the priest, dragging the delinquent out of bed, and " carding " him. Their manner of disguising themselves to avoid recognition was simple in tlie extreme ; they blackened their faces, and wore a white shirt over their clothes.

   326 HISTORY OF SLIGO.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 163

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, this is the town where a special commission sat at the close of 1806. In the early years of the century, two secret societies had formed to curtail the fees Roman Catholic clergy charged for marriages, baptisms, and other rites of the Church. The movement might have succeeded had it stayed within legal measures. But those who sought to “fix a fair rent” on the clergy went to extremes and placed themselves within the meshes of the law. They were called Threshers. They would visit the house of anyone they believed had paid too much to the priest, drag the delinquent from bed, and card him. Their disguise was simple. They blackened their faces and wore a white shirt over their clothes.

5. Boycott and intimidation at Camphill Mills

   Camphill · townland · Cork · 1838

   In 1838, a dispute between Mr. Sims and Mr. Kelly over the sale of Camphill Mills led to Mr. Sims being ostracised. Those who disobeyed the conspirators' secret mandate suffered, including a man whose horse had its ears cut off for selling grain to Sims.

   Read the passage

   lu December, 1836, there was a revival of " exclusive dealing." In 1838 there was the notorious disagreement between Mr. Sims and Mr. Kelly relative to the sale of the Camphill Mills, during which period the former individual was, to use a modern expression, strictly " boycotted." No person was allowed to deal with him, and those who disobeyed the secret mandate of the conspirators suffered. For example, " the ears of a horse belonging to a man who had sold grain " to Mr. Sims " were cut off, and the carman's life was threatened." This conspiracy was directed against Mr. Sims. But in December, 1840, a combination existed in the neiglibourhood of CoUooney and in Tireragh against Mr. Kelly, who had erected a potato-starch manufactory, giving great umbrage thereby to the peasantry, who conceived that the increased consumption of potatoes would raise their already high price. Persons selling to Mr. Kelly were therefore threatened, as also the men in his employment ; and to such an extent was the system of intimidation carried, that the manufactory was compelled to cease working.

   During the first quarter of this century two secret societies existed which had for object the curtailment of the fees payable to the Eoman Catholic clergy for performing marriages, baptisms, and other rites of their Church. This movement might probably have been successful had the agitation been confined to strictly legal measures ; but the persons who thus attempted to "fix a fair rent " on the clergy proceeded to such extremities that they placed themselves within the meshes of the law ; and a special commission was opened in Sligo, at the close of the year 1806, for the purpose of trying some of these agitators— then designated " Threshers " — who were in the habit of visiting the house of any person who had (as they considered) paid too much to the priest, dragging the delinquent out of bed, and " carding " him. Their manner of disguising themselves to avoid recognition was simple in tlie extreme ; they blackened their faces, and wore a white shirt over their clothes.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 163

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Camphill, in 1838, a bitter dispute broke out between Mr. Sims and Mr. Kelly over the sale of the Camphill Mills. Mr. Sims was, to use the book's own phrase, strictly boycotted. No person was allowed to deal with him. Those who disobeyed the secret mandate of the conspirators suffered. The ears of a horse belonging to a man who had sold grain to Mr. Sims were cut off, and the carman's life was threatened. This conspiracy was directed against Mr. Sims alone. But the trouble did not end there. By December of 1840, a combination had formed in the neighbourhood of Collooney and in Tireragh, this time against Mr. Kelly. He had erected a potato-starch manufactory, which gave great umbrage to the peasantry. They believed the increased consumption of potatoes would raise their already high price. Persons selling to Mr. Kelly were threatened, as were the men in his employment. The system of intimidation was carried to such an extent that the manufactory was compelled to cease working. So within the space of two years, both men at the centre of the Camphill Mills sale found themselves the targets of organized outrage. Mr. Sims was isolated and those who dealt with him were punished with violence. Mr. Kelly was forced to shut down his new enterprise entirely. The disputes left their mark on the district, and the book records them as notorious examples of exclusive dealing and intimidation in the Cork and Sligo countryside during those years.

6. Captain King shot dead at Sligo Courthouse on election day

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1868

   During the 1868 Sligo Borough election polling, Captain King was shot dead near the Courthouse while making his way through the mob to record his vote for Major Knox. Several friends accompanying him were also subjected to rough treatment.

   Read the passage

   Each person who recorded his vote contrary to the interest of those opposed to him, was saluted with strong marks of disapprobation by the partisans of his opponent. About nine o'clock in the morning Captain King was shot dead close to the Courthouse, when making his way through the mob for the purpose of recording his vote for Major Knox, and several of the friends who accompanied him were subjected to rough treatment.

   Major Knox was that evening declared duly elected by a majority of twelve votes, the numbers being, Knox, 241 ; Flanagan, 229. The voters at this, the last election for the Borough, consisted of householders, freemen, and lodgers ; the two latter classes were insignificant in number, there being but one freeman and three lodgers. Of the 520 voters only 75 qualified in respect of property situated in the rural district.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 29

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, it is worth knowing that on the morning of the 1868 borough election, a man died in these streets. Captain King was making his way through the mob toward the courthouse to record his vote for Major Knox when he was shot dead close by. Several friends with him were also given rough treatment by the crowd. That evening Knox was declared elected by 12 votes, 241 to 229 over Flanagan, in the last election the borough would hold. Only 75 of the 520 voters qualified through property in the rural district, and there was just one freeman and three lodgers among them.

7. Fairy city beneath Lough Gill

   near Lough Gill · lake or lakes · Kerry

   A legend tells of a peasant living on the borders of Lough Gill who, at midnight on 23rd June, followed the receding lake into a magnificent buried city. He fled from its supernatural inhabitants, bringing back only a curious bottle as evidence.

   Read the passage

   quickly turned and fled. There is the authority of Burns for stating that the spirits of the Scottish land have such a dread of water that " a running stream they dar' na' cross " ; but these were genuine Irish spirits ; for, despite an admixture of the watery element, they remained potent enough to keep up the chase on land. The fugitive strained every nerve, and finally succeeded in bursting through the cabin door, and, on recovering consciousness, was lying on the bed, the only memento of this wonderful escape being a curiously-shaped bottle, having a pungent odour, and which had been taken (as alleged when recounting the adventure) from off the table of a mansion in the buried city ; so that there appears to have been some grounds for the story, though, like " the baseless fabric of a dream," both the peasant and the fairy city of Lough Gill have alike vanished from human ken.

   " Everybody knows," remarks P. W. Joyce, " that a ghost without a head is very usual, not only in Ireland, but all over the world." There is also a "hideous kind of hobgoblin, generally met with in churchyards, called a duUaghan, who can take off and put on his head at will ; in fact, you generally meet him with that member in his pocket, under his arm, or absent altogether ; or, if you have the fortune to light on a number of them, you may see them amusing themselves by flinging their heads at one another, or kicking them for footballs." Sligo can boast of several of these interesting beings. In former days there was an Irish chief who lived at Loughanacaha, i.e. the lakelet of the winnowing, now known as Chaffpool.' This chief had an only child (a daughter) regarding whom there was a prophecy, that she would be lost before attaining the age of twenty-one years. The father then built

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 191

   As the companion tells it

   Lough Gill is the lake you're passing now. There is an old story that a fairy city lies beneath it, and that a peasant living on its borders once walked into that city. It was midnight on 23 June. The lake drew back, and the peasant followed the receding water down into a magnificent buried city. But its inhabitants were supernatural, and he quickly turned and fled. There is the authority of Burns for stating that the spirits of the Scottish land have such a dread of water that "a running stream they dar' na' cross." But these were genuine Irish spirits; for, despite an admixture of the watery element, they remained potent enough to keep up the chase on land. The fugitive strained every nerve and finally succeeded in bursting through the cabin door. On recovering consciousness, he found himself lying on his bed, the only memento of this wonderful escape being a curiously-shaped bottle, having a pungent odour, and which had been taken, as he alleged when recounting the adventure, from off the table of a mansion in the buried city. So that there appeared to have been some grounds for the story, though, like "the baseless fabric of a dream," both the peasant and the fairy city have alike vanished from human ken.

8. Fenton–Hillas duel at Kilmacowen, 1815

   Kilmacowen · townland · Sligo · 1815

   In 1815 Mr. Fenton and Major Hillas fought a duel at Kilmacowen, witnessed by an assembled mob. The quarrel arose from remarks about a shipwreck off the Tireragh coast and was aggravated by political antipathies. Hillas was killed at the first fire; Fenton was tried at Sligo assizes and acquitted.

   Read the passage

   Major Hillas went to the ground — Kilmacowen — in a full suit of mourning, and he was morally brave enough to say to the assembled crowd, " I am sorry that the mistaken laws of honour oblige me to come here and defend myself ; and I declare to God I have no animosity to man or woman on the face of the earth." Hillas fell dead at the first fire. Mr. Fenton was put on his trial at the next assizes in Sligo, and acquitted. In fact in those duelling days such a trial was a mere matter of form, provided that judge and jury were of opinion everything had been conducted according to the proscribed rules in such cases.'

   Many years afterwards when Mr. Fenton was living iu Dublin, he took exception to some observations made by Mr.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 159

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here in 1815, Major Hillas and Mr. Fenton fought a duel. The quarrel began over remarks about a shipwreck off the Tireragh coast, made worse by political differences between the two. Hillas came to the ground in a full suit of mourning and told the assembled crowd, "I am sorry that the mistaken laws of honour oblige me to come here and defend myself; and I declare to God I have no animosity to man or woman on the face of the earth." He fell dead at the first fire. Fenton was tried at the next assizes in Sligo and acquitted, duelling trials being a mere matter of form when judge and jury were satisfied everything had followed the rules.

9. Rioting at Sligo borough election, December 1832

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1832

   The borough election commenced on 17th December 1832 and lasted three days with fearful rioting as opposing mobs alternately occupied the town. John Martin won with 213 votes against Mr. Wynne's 158.

   Read the passage

   pay for entitling it to be admitted within the borough.^ Frequently, too, their so-called representatives knew little or nothing of Sligo — had never been there : one of them in his place in the House having described it as a small fishing-village in the West of Ireland.^ On both sides the canvassing had been most vigorous, and the election commenced on the 17th December, 1832. During the three days of the contest there was fearful rioting, the town being alternately occupied by the opposing mobs, according as either side momentarily gained numerical preponderance ; at the close of the third day, Thursday, the 20th December, the poll was declared : Mr. John Martin, 213 votes; Mr. Wynne, 158. On the 9th January, 1835, there was again a General Election, when the former was returned unopposed.

   Earl Mulgrave — then Lord Lieutenant of Ireland — having announced his intention of visiting Sligo, the Liberals resolved to give him a reception, and applied to the High Sheriff, James Knott, of Battlefield, for the use of the Court-house, which was refused by him, and in consequence he was superseded in the commission of the peace. On the 23rd August, 1836, the trades processionists, with wands, scarfs, belts, and banners, marched a few miles out of the town to Ballysadare and Collooney, but His Excellency did not enter Sligo till six in the evening ; he was met by a deputation from the Liberals, who presented him with an address, and at night the town was illuminated. On the next day the Lord Lieutenant conferred the honour of knighthood on Colonel William Parke,^ of Dunally, and visited

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 25

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, this was the scene of a violent borough election in December 1832. The contest began on the 17th and lasted three days, with fearful rioting as opposing mobs alternately seized control of the town. When the poll closed on Thursday the 20th of December, John Martin won with 213 votes against Mr. Wynne's 158. The canvassing on both sides had been vigorous, and the town endured days of mob rule before the result settled it. On the 9th of January 1835, Martin was returned unopposed at the next general election.

10. Battle of Collooney, 5 September 1798

    Collooney · townland · Sligo · 1798

    Colonel Vereker's forces, including the Limerick Militia, engaged the combined French and rebel army under General Humbert at Collooney. Though obliged to retreat, the action saved Sligo town from attack, as the French acknowledged it was their intention to assault it. British losses were one officer and six rank and file killed, with five officers and twenty-two wounded; French losses were about twenty killed and thirty wounded.

    Read the passage

    the harness were brought off, they were rendered useless to the enemy, as appears by their not taking them with them. Our loss in this action, considering we had the whole of the French and Rebel army to contend with, was less than might have been expected, there having been only one officer and six rank and file killed, and five officers and twenty-two rank and file wounded ; the loss on the side of the French, by their own account, was about twenty killed and about thirty wounded ; fourteen very badly, were brought in here, four of whom have since died in the hospital. There must liave been also a number of rebels killed and wounded, which we could not ascertain. I have great pleasure in expressing my entire approbation of the conduct of the officers and soldiers on this occasion ; to Lieutenant- Colonel Gough I have to return my warmest thanks for the very great zeal and spirit displayed by him ; to Major Ormsby, my thanks are justly due; as also to Captain Waller, of the Limerick Militia, who with his light company was extremely active. I have likewise to express my obligations to Captain Slicer, of the Koyal Irish Artillery, for his conduct in the action, and his great exertions, under very heavy fire to bring off his guns, as well as to Captain Whistler of the Twenty-fourth Light Dragoons, who with great bravery met the charge of the French Cavalry and obliged them to retire. I have great satisfaction to think that although we were obliged to retreat, the object of the action was attained, namely, that of saving the town, as from the acknowledgment of the French Officers it was their intention to have attacked it, but from the check they got, and thinking we would not liave gone out to meet them if not supported in our rear they changed their direction.

    " (Signed), " Charles Veeeker,

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 10

11. Dr. Coyne rescues a living man from a coffin in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    Dr. Coyne, passing a friend's house in Sligo during the cholera epidemic, found the cholera-cart waiting and the supposed corpse already being placed in a coffin. On examination he discovered faint signs of life, applied restoratives, and the man survived for many years—long after Coyne himself succumbed to the disease.

    Read the passage

    vigour but a few hours previously. He entered the liouse, and found people preparing to place the supposed corpse in a coffin. Coyne examined the body, discovered some faint sign of life ; the man was consequently replaced in bed, restoratives applied, and finally he survived for many years after his rescuer had himself succumbed to the epidemic.

    Many stories are recounted of persons being carried off to be buried whilst still alive, but this may in many instances be accounted for by the fact that the algide surface of the body, a short time after death becomes again heated, and there is muscular movement ; this curious phenomenon was observed in many other localities afflicted by the cholera. In reply to an inquiry on this point from a physician of eminence, he stated: — • "It is true that in cases of cholera the surface is icy cold, but when death relaxes the condition of the skin, the hot blood from the interior of the body does impart much heat for some time after death; movements of the muscular fibres of the chest and arms can all be excited in certain cases: of course so long as any trace of action continues, that part is not really dead, but it is certain the patient is."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Sligo now, a town with its own grim chapter from the cholera epidemic. Dr. Coyne was passing a friend's house here when he found the cholera-cart waiting outside. People inside were already preparing to place a supposed corpse in a coffin. Coyne examined the body and found some faint sign of life. The man was put back in bed, restoratives were applied, and he survived for many years. His rescuer was not so fortunate. Dr. Coyne himself later succumbed to the epidemic. The book notes that many stories were told of people being carried off for burial while still alive. Some of these cases can be explained by the fact that after death from cholera the body's surface, which had been icy cold, becomes heated again as hot blood from the interior circulates to the skin. A physician of eminence explained that movements of the muscular fibres of the chest and arms can be excited in certain cases. He said that so long as any trace of action continues, that part is not really dead, but it is certain the patient is.

12. Intimidation forces closure of Collooney potato-starch factory

    Collooney · townland · Sligo · 1840

    In December 1840, a combination in the neighbourhood of Collooney targeted Mr. Kelly's potato-starch manufactory. The peasantry feared the factory's potato consumption would raise prices, and intimidation was carried to such an extent that the factory ceased working.

    Read the passage

    lu December, 1836, there was a revival of " exclusive dealing." In 1838 there was the notorious disagreement between Mr. Sims and Mr. Kelly relative to the sale of the Camphill Mills, during which period the former individual was, to use a modern expression, strictly " boycotted." No person was allowed to deal with him, and those who disobeyed the secret mandate of the conspirators suffered. For example, " the ears of a horse belonging to a man who had sold grain " to Mr. Sims " were cut off, and the carman's life was threatened." This conspiracy was directed against Mr. Sims. But in December, 1840, a combination existed in the neiglibourhood of CoUooney and in Tireragh against Mr. Kelly, who had erected a potato-starch manufactory, giving great umbrage thereby to the peasantry, who conceived that the increased consumption of potatoes would raise their already high price. Persons selling to Mr. Kelly were therefore threatened, as also the men in his employment ; and to such an extent was the system of intimidation carried, that the manufactory was compelled to cease working.

    During the first quarter of this century two secret societies existed which had for object the curtailment of the fees payable to the Eoman Catholic clergy for performing marriages, baptisms, and other rites of their Church. This movement might probably have been successful had the agitation been confined to strictly legal measures ; but the persons who thus attempted to "fix a fair rent " on the clergy proceeded to such extremities that they placed themselves within the meshes of the law ; and a special commission was opened in Sligo, at the close of the year 1806, for the purpose of trying some of these agitators— then designated " Threshers " — who were in the habit of visiting the house of any person who had (as they considered) paid too much to the priest, dragging the delinquent out of bed, and " carding " him. Their manner of disguising themselves to avoid recognition was simple in tlie extreme ; they blackened their faces, and wore a white shirt over their clothes.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 163

13. Scurmore 'Children of the Mermaid' boulders and tumulus

    Scurmore · townland · Sligo

    In the townland of Scurmore, parish of Castleconor, a locality bears the title 'Children of the Mermaid,' applied to seven large boulders situated on the north-east periphery of a circular rampart surrounding a fine tumulus. The name reflects the belief that megalithic features were living beings metamorphosed by magic.

    Read the passage

    In A. D. 887 a dead mermaid was said to have been cast ashore, and details are given of her dimensions, which almost rival those of the sea-serpent of this nineteenth century ; whilst in the Annals of Loch Ce it is recounted that two mermaids were caught by fishermen in the year 1118. Sligo is not without its legend of a "Merrow," which answers to the English "Mermaid"; and the idea entertained by the peasantry in various localities that some of the megalithic circles w^ere human, or other living beings — metamorphosed by magic — was a very prevalent belief. Crofton Croker recounts one such in his Killarney Legends; another is told by Mr. Hibbert in his Description of the Shetland Isles ; and in the townland of Scurmore, parish of Castleconor, county of Sligo, there is a locality bearing the singular title " Children of the Mermaid." This designation appears to be specially applied to some large boulders, seven in number, situated on the N.E. periphery of a circular rampart, surrounding a fine specimen of a tumulus.

    Some of the fishermen really believe in the existence of mermaids. A man declared he had seen ^one on the rocks combing her hair. On his approach she took a header into the deep.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 179

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Scurmore there's a place locals call the Children of the Mermaid. The name belongs to seven large boulders sitting on the edge of a circular rampart that surrounds a fine tumulus. The thinking behind the name was that these megalithic stones had once been living creatures, changed into rock by magic. That belief ran deep among country people. Sligo had its own mermaid lore, called the Merrow, and the old annals fed it. In 887 a dead mermaid was said to have washed ashore, and her dimensions were recorded in detail. The Annals of Loch Ce tell how fishermen caught two mermaids in 1118. Some fishermen still believed. One man swore he saw a mermaid sitting on the rocks combing her hair, and when he came near she dove straight into the deep.

14. Corkran builds The Mall from abbey stone

    The Mall · street · Sligo

    A merchant named Corkran dismantled parts of the old Dominican abbey as a quarry, using the stone to build 'The Mall' at the river-side, which was named after him. Father Laurence Connellan eventually arrested his destruction; Corkran later absconded to America after a public humiliation.

    Read the passage

    Despite the presence of the members of the Dominican Order, the fabric of the old abbey was not secure from the attacks of Vandal speculators, who proceeded to utilize it as a quarry. The chief offender in regard to these dilapidations was a merchant named Corkran, by whom "The Mall" at the river-side was built, and after whom it was named. Father Laurence Connellan succeeded at last in arresting his destructive hand. According to a MS. on this subject the spoliation did not bring good luck to its author, as Mr. Corkran's ultimate fate was rather peculiar. He was wealthy, proud, and pompous ; one night,

    ' Father Patrick M'Donogh, who was thus forced to leave Sligo, has left a long description of the goods and chattels then belonging to the Convent. By this it appears that in former years Father Theodoras Conel had left a sum of £300 for the use of the friars, settled in trust on Mr. Nicholas French of Abbert, in the County Gal way, and with it he purchased land. In the reign of James II., £50 of the principal was spent in repairing parts of the fabric, but "sence y" hcate of y' warrs of Ireland" the friars "did nott receive a peny" of their rents, whilst one of their trustees "Mr. Coll. Keogh" appropriated to his own use part of the trust money — in fact the friars lost everything save "their chalices and ornaments." The only remains of ancient silver now in the Friary are four chalices, bearing the dates 1636, 1716, 1718, and 1732.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 63

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on this street is The Mall, built from the stone of the old Dominican abbey. Despite the presence of the members of the Dominican Order, the fabric of the old abbey was not secure from the attacks of vandal speculators, who proceeded to utilize it as a quarry. The chief offender was a merchant named Corkran. He built The Mall at the river-side, and it was named after him. Father Laurence Connellan succeeded at last in arresting his destructive hand. According to a manuscript on this subject, the spoliation did not bring good luck to its author. Corkran was wealthy, proud, and pompous. His ultimate fate was rather peculiar. He later absconded to America after a public humiliation. The friars had already suffered heavy losses. Father Patrick M'Donogh, forced to leave Sligo, left a long description of the goods and chattels belonging to the Convent. Father Theodoras Conel had left 300 pounds for the use of the friars, settled in trust on Mr. Nicholas French of Abbert in County Galway, and with it he purchased land. In the reign of James the Second, 50 pounds of the principal was spent repairing parts of the fabric. But since the heat of the wars of Ireland the friars did not receive a penny of their rents. One of their trustees, Mr. Coll. Keogh, appropriated trust money to his own use. The friars lost everything save their chalices and ornaments. The only remains of ancient silver now in the Friary are four chalices, bearing the dates 1636, 1716, 1718, and 1732.

15. Corrupt 1856 Sligo Borough election: mob violence and vote rigging

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1856

    The March 1856 Sligo Borough election saw John Patrick Somers declared elected over Mr. Wynne by 150 votes to 144, but the result was overturned on petition when Wynne was found to have a true majority of 30. Poll officials had altered votes in the books, and armed mobs paraded the streets during polling, terrorising the town.

    Read the passage

    At the election on the 7th March, 1856, John Patrick Somers was declared duly elected by 150 votes to 144; but on petition tbe seat was given to Mr. Wynne, be having had in reality a majority of 30. Probably, nothing in the annals of electioneerin <? has ever been recorded which could rival the narrative as given in the records before the Committee of the House, or in the legal proceedings subsequent on the disclosures then recounted. It was proved that one of the principal officials and bis assistants bad, in the poll books, taken off votes from Mr. Wynne and placed them to the credit of Somers, to whom also were assigned voters who bad never even entered the poll booths ; wbilst at the same time large mobs, armed with sticks and discharging fire-arms, paraded the streets during the polling when the populace held possession of the place. Mobs in all the elections were hired ; they would not turn on their heel unless they got money. On occasions, when they had not been paid, or payment was refused, they have been known to use the threat that they would go on the other side and fight for them; indeed it may be said that a Sligo mob considered £100 a-night very little for them ; they expected from five shillings to seven sbilings and sixpence per man — such was the evidence given before the Commissioners appointed to report on the corrupt practices in the Borough of Sligo.

    At tbe Spring Assizes of 1858, all tbe ofiieials implicated in tbe election malpractices were tried on a charge of conspiracy to procure by unlawful means the return of John Patrick Somers, and after a most careful investigation they were found guilty,

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 28

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town where the March 1856 borough election was so corrupt it ended up in the House of Commons. John Patrick Somers was declared elected over Mr. Wynne by 150 votes to 144, but on petition the seat was given to Wynne, who in reality had a majority of 30. Poll officials had taken votes off Wynne in the poll books and put them to Somers, and even assigned Somers voters who never entered the polling booths. Meanwhile armed mobs with sticks and firearms paraded the streets during polling and held possession of the town. The evidence before the Commissioners showed that mobs were hired, and a Sligo mob expected five shillings to seven shillings and sixpence per man, considering £100 a night very little. At the Spring Assizes of 1858 all the officials implicated were tried for conspiracy to procure Somers's return by unlawful means, and after careful investigation they were found guilty.

16. Death of Dermod on Benbulben by magical boar

    Benbulbin · mountain or mountain range · Sligo

    In the epic tale, Dermod went out to hunt the magical boar of Benbulben and was mortally wounded. Finn let the healing water slip through his hands twice, and Dermod expired before receiving the cure.

    Read the passage

    Dermod and Grania went to live far away from Finn and Cormac in the cantred of Kesh-Corran, where they abode many years in peace. Grania, however, became tired of the solitude, and begged her husband to invite the king her father, and also Finn ; " for," Grania said, " their enmity has surely softened with length of time ; and now I would that you give them a feast ; so shall we win back their friendship and love." In an evil hour Dermod consented ; and the entire court of Tara remained for twelve months feasting with Dermod, until he, despite the entreaties of his wife, went out to hunt the magical boar of Benbulben, by whom he was wounded. His enemy Finn found him lying in the pangs of death : Dermod begged of him a drink of water ; for, by the magic power possessed by Finn, to whomsoever he gave a drink of water from the closed palms of his two hands, he would be at once made whole. Finn went reluctantly to the well for the healing draught ; twice he let the water purposely slip through his hand; but, being menaced with instant death by Oscar if he did not give the healing drink, he was hastening forward the third time when Dermod expired.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 190

17. Inchiquin 'Money of Necessity' found at Killaspugbrone

    Killaspugbrone · townland · Sligo · 1642

    A rare silver 'Money of Necessity' or siege-piece, one of the 'Inchiquin Coins' struck circa 1642, was discovered at Killaspugbrone. It is an irregular polygon of silver stamped with '19 dwt. 8 gr.' on both sides, and specimens vary in value from £2 to £7 12s.

    Read the passage

    A curious example of a class of coins designated " Money of Necessity," or " Siege-pieces," was found some years ago at Killaspugbrone. It is an irregular polygon of silver, having 19 dwt. 8 gr. stamped in a circle on the obverse and reverse (fig. 34), and was struck circa 1642. It is one of a series designated " Inchiquin Coins," and represented bs. Specimens are tolerably rare, and vary in price from £2 to £7 12s.

    174 HISTORY OF SLIGO.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 86

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, a silver siege-piece coin was found at Killaspugbrone some years before it was written about. It is one of the Inchiquin Coins, struck around 1642, a class of coin called Money of Necessity. It is an irregular polygon with 19 dwt. 8 gr. stamped in a circle on both sides. Specimens are tolerably rare, and varied in price from £2 to £7 12s.

18. Kilross church and burial-ground overnight translation legend

    Kilross · townland · Sligo

    The church and burial-ground at Kilross were reputed to have been formerly situated on the opposite side of the rivulet. According to local tradition, the dead held a council overnight and the church and churchyard were found transported to their present position by morning. Two wells and a sculptured rock called the 'holy-water stone' mark the original site.

    Read the passage

    The church^ and burial-ground at Kilross were reputed to have been formerly situated on the opposite side of the rivulet which flows near them. One night, in council assembled, the occupants of the graveyard came to the conclusion that they were too tightly' packed, and next morning church and churchyard were found transported to their present position. The two wells, however, which were in the old burying-ground remained in their original position, and two large rocks — one of them sculptured, and called the "holy-water stone" — mark the site of these " fonts."

    Members of the seaside population display great reluctance to proceed to the rescue of a drowning person. This superstition

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 178

19. Notorious duellest arrested and taken to Sligo, refuses gaol

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1770

    A notorious duellest who had killed his man was arrested and brought to Sligo, but refused to enter the gaol, calling it a dirty place unfit for a gentleman. A county magnate was so pleased with his manners that he took the prisoner to his own residence to await trial.

    Read the passage

    In the same year a notorious duellest was arrested in consequence of having " killed his man." He was taken to Sligo ; but on his arrival there, refused to go to gaol, saying " it was a dirty place, and not fit for a gentleman." His captors accordingly took him to an inn. There a county magnate found him, and entering into conversation with the recalcitrant prisoner, was so pleased with his manners, that he carried him off to his own residence, where he was allowed to stay till his trial.

    "The misunderstanding " which occurred in the year 1772 between the Lords Townsend and Bellamont was a " model difficulty." Lord Townsend was then Lord Lieutenant of Ireland ; and craving audience, in company with otlier gentlemen, one morning came the Earl of Bellamont, a Sligo nobleman. To him entered an aide-de-camp with a message that the Earl need not wait, for that his Excellency would not be at leisure to see him that day ; and then turning to the others bade them wait, as his Excellency would see tlion presently. " Sir," said the Earl to the aide-de-camp, " j'ou will be good enough to inform his Excellency that, as a peer of the realm, I have a iught to audience ; but if his Excellency does not know what he owes me, I know what I owe to myself, and therefore will not wait upon him here or elsewhere."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 158

    As the companion tells it

    We are coming through Sligo. In 1770, a notorious duellest was arrested for having killed his man. He was brought to the town, but on arrival refused to go to gaol, calling it a dirty place and not fit for a gentleman. His captors took him to an inn. There a county magnate found him and entered into conversation with the prisoner. The magnate was so pleased with his manners that he carried him off to his own residence, where the duellest was allowed to stay until his trial. Two years later, in 1772, a misunderstanding occurred between Lord Townsend, then Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, and the Earl of Bellamont, a nobleman of this county. The Earl came one morning craving audience, in company with other gentlemen. An aide-de-camp entered with a message that the Earl need not wait, for his Excellency would not be at leisure to see him that day. Then turning to the others, the aide-de-camp bade them wait, as his Excellency would see them presently. The Earl said to the aide-de-camp, "you will be good enough to inform his Excellency that, as a peer of the realm, I have a right to audience; but if his Excellency does not know what he owes me, I know what I owe to myself, and therefore will not wait upon him here or elsewhere."

20. O'Connell banqueted at Sligo Catholic Free-School

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1828

    During the Summer Assizes of 1828, Daniel O'Connell visited Sligo and was entertained at a public banquet in the new Catholic Free-School, with about 130 sitting down to dinner. Catholic Emancipation was warmly debated in the town.

    Read the passage

    On O'Connell's visit to Sligo, during the Summer Assizes of 1828, he was entertained at a public banquet in "the new Catholic Free-School," and about one hundred and thirty sat down to dinner. The Catholic Emancipation question was warmly taken up in Sligo, Roman Catholic and Protestant meetings being of frequent occurrence. In the year 1829 the mob broke the windows of almost every Protestant householder in Sligo. In 1831 Reform and anti-Reform meetings were held in the town ; and the throwing open of the Borough to popular representation was naturally opposed most strenuously by Mr. Wynne. A very important demonstration was held in the Court House, 11th January, 1832 ; although designated an Anti-Reform meeting, yet speakers on both sides were allowed a hearing.

    So early as 1828, when Reform was on the tajns, Mr. John Martin had been nominated by the moderate Liberals to contest the representation of the borough with Mr. Wynne. He was not considered by some to be a politician of sufficiently advanced type, and as such O'Connell objected to him, concluding his speech thus : — " My hostility to Mr. Martin is by no means personal ; on the contrary, he is a gentleman for whom I entertain personal regard." However, the time for the contest drew on, and no candidate more pleasing to O'Connell was obtained. At the hustings the electors were reminded of the time when a bundle of rushes or even a horse-load of brooms could not enter the town without paying toll; and their worthy ex-Provost had been compelled to appear one night at an entertainment in very shabby lower-garments, because the smart new attire intended for the occasion had been detained at the toll-gate for want of the bearer being provided with the sum of two-pence needful to

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 25

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is the town where Daniel O'Connell came during the Summer Assizes of 1828 and was entertained at a public banquet in the new Catholic Free-School. About 130 sat down to dinner. The Catholic Emancipation question was warmly taken up in Sligo, with Roman Catholic and Protestant meetings of frequent occurrence. The following year, 1829, the mob broke the windows of almost every Protestant householder in the town. In 1831 Reform and anti-Reform meetings were held, and the throwing open of the Borough to popular representation was opposed most strenuously by Mr. Wynne. An important demonstration was held in the Court House on 11 January 1832, designated an Anti-Reform meeting, though speakers on both sides were allowed a hearing. As early as 1828, Mr. John Martin had been nominated by the moderate Liberals to contest the representation of the borough with Mr. Wynne. O'Connell objected to him as not being a politician of sufficiently advanced type, though he said, "My hostility to Mr. Martin is by no means personal; on the contrary, he is a gentleman for whom I entertain personal regard." No candidate more pleasing to O'Connell was obtained. At the hustings the electors were reminded of the time when a bundle of rushes or a horse-load of brooms could not enter the town without paying toll, and their ex-Provost had been compelled to appear at an entertainment in shabby lower garments because his smart new attire had been detained at the toll-gate for want of two pence.

21. Outrages and sheep-killing in Tireragh, 1826

    Tireragh · barony · Sligo · 1826–1830

    In 1826 the barony of Tireragh experienced frequent sheep-killing—animals skinned and flesh carried away—along with firing of haggards, robbery of arms, and threatening notices embellished with coffin pictures. Such terrorism persisted up to 1830.

    Read the passage

    In 1823 there was a great spread of the E-ibbon system ; whilst in 1826 it was no rare occurrence in the barony of Tireragh for sheep to be killed, skinned, and the flesh carried away. Other outrages of more serious nature were often superadded, such as the firing of haggards ; the robbery of arms ; threatening notices, embellished with pictures of coffins — the date of decease of the recipient being inscribed on them — furnished also with representations of guns and other usual insignia denoting terrorism ; and from this date up to 1830 threatening letters were very common.

    A Sligo newspaper of the year 1828 set forth how a gentleman " was under the necessity of sending a distraining warrant for the impounding, &c., of cattle belonging to some tenants of his, who would pay no other than the ' Catholic Rent.' On the authority under which they (the bailiffs) were about to act being produced to the landholders, they ' simultaneously ' expressed their determination to resist any writ which did not issue direct from King O'Connell. The people were, however, induced to listen to reason, and they ultimately submitted to the mandate of King George."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 162

22. Protestant Leap legend at Cope's Mountain, Glencar

    Glencar · electoral division · Sligo · 1641

    A legend set during the 1641 war tells of Colonel Hamilton's troops from Manorhamilton raiding into Sligo, guided by a man who led them to the precipice of Cope's Mountain bordering Glencar valley. The guide dropped his cloak as a signal, and the soldiers rushed forward over the cliff edge to their deaths.

    Read the passage

    Cope's mountain, with its fearful precipices (bordering the valley of Glencar) is the scene of the alleged " Protestant leap." The legend connected with it is as follows : — A detachment of Colonel Hamilton's troops (garrisoned in Manorhamilton during the war of 1641) was making a raid into Sligo, and obtained a guide, who stipulated, in return for a certain sum of money, to enable the party to fall on the Irish unawares, at the close of the evening. " Accordingly he led them up the mountain, directing them to halt a little short of the precipice, of the existence of which they had not the most remote idea, while he himself moved forward to ascertain if all was favourable among the Irish, in which case he was to give them a signal, by dropping his cloak, to rush on to the work of havoc. The cloak was

    ' A Mr. "William Dorran, the then proprietor of the island — hence it was sometimes styled Dorran's Island — was drowned whilst crossing over to his house, on the 9th March, 1823.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 193

23. Red Earl's road over Curlew Mountains to Ballymote

    near Curlew Mountains · mountain or mountain range · Roscommon · 504–1688

    The Red Earl constructed a road over the Curlew Mountains to his newly-erected stronghold at Ballymote, still known locally as Bothar-an-Iarla-Ruaidli. This ancient route was the site of a celebrated battle in 504 and remained a key line for troop movements up to the Revolution of 1688.

    Read the passage

    HE historians of ancient Erin inform us tliat there were roads leading through all the provinces of the kingdom ; yet thick woods extended over vast districts of the country, and in none were they more numerous than in the present County Sligo. Like the Romans, the Anglo-Normans were great roadmakers. One of the " Red Earl's " first works in the county was the construction of a road over the Curlew mountains to his newly-erected stronghold at Ballymote, and which is still styled by the country people Bothar-an-Iarla-Ruaidli, or the Red Earl's road. Until comparatively recent times it was the ancient route to Sligo over " the craggy mountain of the Curlews." In many places it can still be traced, and seems to have resembled the mule tracks yet to be seen in Spain. It was constructed, most probably, on the ancient trail followed by invaders of Sligo from the direction of Boyle, and where, in the defile of the mountains, a celebrated battle was fought in the year 504. From this date down to even so late as the Revolution of 1688, it was the line on which many important movements of troops took place, and it may be considered one (perhaps the only one) of the really ancient roads through the county. In addition there was the track followed by O'Donnel from Tirconnell, that by which O'Rorke could invade Sligo, and the route from Ballina to Ballysadare.

    Lithgow, a travelled Scotchman, in his quaint account of journeyings through Ireland in 1619-1620, when describing the general state of the tracks, states they could not be designated roads that he traversed ; and he was of opinion that there were more rivers, lakes, brooks, strands, quagmires, bogs, and

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 97

24. Sanitary Association reports polluted water in Sligo, 1848

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1848

    A Sanitary Association appointed in late 1848 found Sligo's water supply grossly polluted, with decomposed blood percolating from a slaughter-yard into a well, and pumps receiving drainage from the Abbey and the churchyard.

    Read the passage

    of the visitation were yet fresli, and the inhabitants of the town were thorouglily alarmed at the prospect of auotlier epidemic of cholera, a "Sanitary Association" was appointed to inquire into matters and make a report thereon; that report was simply appalling, the sources of water-supply being all more or less polluted ; in one instance decomposed blood, percolating from a slaughter-yard into a well, was distinctly observable, and one pump received the drainage from the Abbey, another that from the churchyard. "A host of inquirers of the highest eminence and repute in this department of science have established the fact, beyond controversy, that one of the most frequent and fertile causes of some of our most dreaded and fata,l diseases, cholera and typhoid or enteric fever, for example, as well as of innumerable minor and chronic derangements of health, principally affecting the digestive system, is the contamination of our drinking and cooking water by tlie admixture of various organic impurities and poisons (animal and vegetable) derived from the sewage of towns, or slowly percolating through a porous soil into the adjacent wells, springs, rivers, and lakes."

    It was a peculiarity attending the second visitation of cholera in Sligo, that the town itself was, comparatively speaking, but slightly affected. The country districts, however, suffered severel3^ Dr. Thomas Little, the County Surgeon, was one of the first victims; lie was attacked whilst in the hospital, was too ill to be removed to his own residence, and died in a neighbouring house. In recognition of his zeal, some of his admirers, in 1852, decided on erecting a memorial to him, which took the form of a marble bust, executed by Barter, a then well-known young sculptor, and when finished the bust was placed in the entrance hall of the County Infirmary.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is a town whose water was killing its people. In 1848, with the memory of cholera still fresh and fears of another epidemic rising, a Sanitary Association was appointed to investigate conditions. Their report was appalling. Every source of water supply was more or less polluted. Decomposed blood was percolating from a slaughter-yard into a well. One pump drew drainage from the Abbey, and another from the churchyard. The report quoted the leading scientific opinion of the day, that contaminated drinking and cooking water, carrying organic impurities and poisons from town sewage or from soil soaked through porous ground into wells, springs, rivers and lakes, was one of the most frequent causes of cholera and typhoid fever, and of innumerable chronic complaints of the digestive system. When the second visitation of cholera came to Sligo, the town itself was comparatively lightly hit. The country districts suffered severely. Dr. Thomas Little, the County Surgeon, was one of the first victims. He was attacked while in the hospital, too ill to be moved to his own home, and died in a neighbouring house. In 1852 some of his admirers raised a memorial, a marble bust executed by Barter, a well-known young sculptor, and it was placed in the entrance hall of the County Infirmary.

25. Sligo Castle site leased as military barracks for centuries

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1700–1766

    The plot where Sligo Castle once stood was leased to the Crown in 1700 for 999 years at a nominal rent and used as a barracks as late as 1766. In 1792 the Board of Ordnance demised it to Owen Wynne, and in 1856 it became the Wynne family's absolute property by purchase. The old castle was reportedly an imposing structure whose remains were visible from Killybegs, County Donegal, according to Camden's Britannia.

    Read the passage

    of the fort." This plot, on which had originally stood the old castle,^ replaced by the " New Fort," was subsequently styled the "Barrack Fort," or the (as time advanced) "old Fort Plot," and thus the place which formerly re-echoed to the clang of war is now devoted to the more peaceful, yet occasionally very militant, debates of the town-councillors. The plot on which the Fort stood was demised to the Crown (by lease, dated November 15, 1700), for 999 years, at the nominal rent of Is. ; it was used for a barrack so late as 1766 ; in 1792, the Board of Ordnance demised the premises to Owen Wynne, by lease, subject to a rent of £18 Irish, but, in 1856 it became by purchase, the absolute property of the Wynne family. There were long negotiations on the subject of the sale between Mr. Wynne and the Corporation. Mr. John Wynne's offer of the plot for £1100 was finally approved of at a meeting held October 26, 1861. The offices of the Harbour Commissioners were to be combined with the municipal offices, the Harbour Commissioners agreeing to pay £50 per annum for the use thereof ; owing, however, to the deficiency of funds necessary to carry on the work, it was finally decided that they should give £500 in cash, and be thus rent free, whilst for the same reason !Mr. Wynne was induced to accept £50 as yearly ground-rent in lieu of the sum of £1100 ; the deed of convej'ance was executed May, 1864, and possession given July 27th of same year, wlien advertisements were at once inserted in the newspapers for plans and specifications for the building.

    Sir John Benson — a well-known architect, and a native of Sligo, was requested to give his assistance to the Committee appointed by the Corporation for selection, and from amongst a large number of plans that furnished by Mr. Hague was decided upon. On July 28th, 1865, a tender amounting to £5000 was accepted from Messrs. Crowe, Brothers, for the building ; Mr. James Caldwell being aj)pointed clerk of

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 74

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo town, you are near the site of the old castle, whose remains were reportedly imposing enough to be visible from Killybegs in County Donegal, according to Camden's Britannia. The plot was leased to the Crown on November 15, 1700, for 999 years at a nominal rent of one shilling, and served as a barracks as late as 1766. In 1792 the Board of Ordnance demised the premises to Owen Wynne, subject to a rent of 18 pounds Irish, and in 1856 it became the Wynne family's absolute property by purchase. There were long negotiations between Mr. Wynne and the Corporation over the sale. John Wynne's offer of the plot for 1100 pounds was finally approved at a meeting held October 26, 1861. The Harbour Commissioners were to share the municipal offices, agreeing to pay 50 pounds per annum, but owing to a deficiency of funds they gave 500 pounds in cash instead and became rent free. For the same reason, Mr. Wynne accepted 50 pounds as yearly ground-rent in lieu of the 1100 pounds. The deed of conveyance was executed in May 1864, and possession was given July 27 of that year. Advertisements went out at once for plans and specifications for the building. Sir John Benson, a well-known architect and a native of Sligo, assisted the Corporation committee, and from a large number of plans that of Mr. Hague was chosen. On July 28, 1865, a tender of 5000 pounds was accepted from Messrs. Crowe Brothers for the building, with Mr. James Caldwell appointed clerk of works.

26. Sligo volunteers depart to fight for Pope Pius IX, 1860

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1860

    In June 1860, about one hundred men from Sligo embarked on the steamship 'Sligo' bound for Rome, intending to serve as soldiers for Pope Pius IX. Their wretched condition in Italy became the subject of newspaper leading articles, and by November several returned home with British government aid.

    Read the passage

    In the mouth of June, 1860— despite the Foreign Enlistment Act — about one hundred aspirants for military fame — being of all ages and sizes— embarked on board the steamship " Shgo," en route for Eome, their purpose being to act as soldiers for Pope Pius IX, ; they do not appear to have fared too well in Italy, for their wretched condition forms the topic of leading articles in newspapers of the period; and in November of the same year several of these volunteers arrived in Sligo, having been conveyed home by the liberality of the British G-overnment, to whom they had appealed for aid in their difficulties.

    In 1867, at about 1 a.m., 27th April, the Chief Boatman in charge of Streedagh Station arrested a stranger, who gave unsatisfactory answers to his inquiries, and about two hours afterwards two men — also strangers to the locality — were found, lying wounded, on the beach. These men were supposed to have been landed by a brigantine of very suspicious appearance, which at that period was cruising in Sligo Bay, with a crew of fifty hands.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 17

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Sligo now. In June 1860, despite the Foreign Enlistment Act, about one hundred men from this town set off to fight for Pope Pius IX. They were of all ages and sizes, and they boarded the steamship Sligo, bound for Rome. The adventure did not go well. Their wretched condition in Italy became the topic of leading articles in newspapers of the period. By November of the same year, several of these volunteers arrived back in Sligo, having appealed to the British Government for aid in their difficulties. The Government's liberality brought them home. Later, in 1867, Sligo Bay saw more trouble. At about 1 a.m. on the 27th of April, the Chief Boatman in charge of Streedagh Station arrested a stranger who gave unsatisfactory answers. About two hours later, two men, also strangers to the locality, were found lying wounded on the beach. They were supposed to have been landed by a brigantine of suspicious appearance, cruising in the bay with a crew of fifty hands.

27. 1868 Sligo Borough election: mob violence and military deployment

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1868

    The November 1868 Sligo Borough election between Major Knox and John Flanagan saw massive mob violence requiring deployment of 340 police, cavalry, and infantry. An eyewitness reported three thousand armed men taking possession of the streets, and £1,300 was later allowed by the Grand Jury for malicious injuries to property.

    Read the passage

    In 1868, consequent on a dissolution of Parliament, the Borough of Sligo was called on to select a member ; and the 19th of November was appointed by the Mayor for taking the poll. Serjeant Armstrong did not again come forward. The candidates were Major Laurence E. Knox (at that time proprietor of the Irish Times) who, in the Conservative interest, contested the seat with John W. Flanagan, in the Liberal interest. The contest was severe, and excited much ill-feeling between the rival parties. As early as eight o'clock on the day of the polling the police and military had to be called into requisition to prevent rioting and violence to voters, it being then by law open voting. There had been drafted into the town 340 police, twenty mounted men, two troops of cavalry, and three companies of infantry ; and this force was barely sufficient, for " on the morning of the election," states an eyewitness, " I saw a mob come down the street and take possession of it that would terrify an army, every man with a cudgel or weapon. There were three thousand of them I am sure." Subsequently a sum of £1300 was allowed by the Grand Jury for malicious injuries to property inflicted by the mob.

    Each person who recorded his vote contrary to the interest of those opposed to him, was saluted with strong marks of disapprobation by the partisans of his opponent. About nine o'clock in the morning Captain King was shot dead close to the Courthouse, when making his way through the mob for the purpose of recording his vote for Major Knox, and several of the friends who accompanied him were subjected to rough treatment.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 29

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town that saw one of its wildest days in November 1868. Parliament had been dissolved, and Sligo had to choose a member on the 19th of that month. Major Laurence E. Knox, proprietor of the Irish Times, stood in the Conservative interest against John W. Flanagan for the Liberals. Voting was open by law, meaning everyone could see how you voted, and the ill-feeling between the two sides ran deep. By eight in the morning the authorities had drafted in 340 police, 20 mounted men, two troops of cavalry, and three companies of infantry, and even that was barely enough. An eyewitness said that on the morning of the election he saw a mob come down the street and take possession of it that would terrify an army, every man with a cudgel or weapon, three thousand of them he was sure. Around nine o'clock Captain King was shot dead close to the Courthouse while making his way through the mob to cast his vote for Major Knox, and several friends with him were roughly handled. Afterward the Grand Jury allowed 1,300 pounds for malicious injuries to property inflicted by the mob.

28. Irish chief and prophesied daughter at Chaffpool

    Chaffpool · townland · Sligo

    An Irish chief formerly lived at Loughanacaha, meaning 'the lakelet of the winnowing,' now known as Chaffpool. A prophecy foretold that his only daughter would be lost before the age of twenty-one, prompting the father to build a protective structure.

    Read the passage

    " Everybody knows," remarks P. W. Joyce, " that a ghost without a head is very usual, not only in Ireland, but all over the world." There is also a "hideous kind of hobgoblin, generally met with in churchyards, called a duUaghan, who can take off and put on his head at will ; in fact, you generally meet him with that member in his pocket, under his arm, or absent altogether ; or, if you have the fortune to light on a number of them, you may see them amusing themselves by flinging their heads at one another, or kicking them for footballs." Sligo can boast of several of these interesting beings. In former days there was an Irish chief who lived at Loughanacaha, i.e. the lakelet of the winnowing, now known as Chaffpool.' This chief had an only child (a daughter) regarding whom there was a prophecy, that she would be lost before attaining the age of twenty-one years. The father then built

    1 Chaffpool derives its name from a phenomenon that is not uncommon in a limestone district. Whenever a turlotigh, situated about half a mile from the house, chances to be full, an inundation then takes place in a depression of the ground at some considerable distances, and if oats be winnowed at the turlough, the chaff comes up on this rise of water, showing that there must exist an underground communication between the two.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 191

29. Riot at Beltra fair by the regiment of cudgelers, 1782

    near Beltra · population centre · Sligo · 1782

    In August 1782, a gang called 'the regiment of cudgelers,' numbering about two hundred and commanded by one Meaghan, assembled at the fair of Beltra armed with cudgels and oak boughs. They attacked a party of the Independent Tyreril Volunteers recruiting for the navy, pelting them with stones and forcing them to shelter in the Strand-house.

    Read the passage

    " On Tuesday last was committed to the county gaol, by Lewis Francis Irwin, Esq., Michael Kenny, Owen Kenny, Maurice Marley, and Francis M'Cowen, taken in a riot the 20th instant at the fair of Beltra, in this county. They were part of a gang lately formed, and, it was said, often met in the baronies of Leyny and Tireragh ; were in number not less than two hundred, who call themselves ' the regiment of cudgelers,' and said they were commanded by one Meaghan. At the fair and place above mentioned, above a hundi'ed of them assembled, with oak boughs, and armed with cudgels and other weapons, offending and striking several people as they passed along. A party of The Independent Tyreril Volunteers, engaged in recruiting for the navy, was attacked by this daring banditti, who pelted them so severely with stones as to oblige them to take shelter for some time in the Strand-house ; but Mr. Irwin, hearing of the affair, went immediately to their assistance."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 161

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming up on Beltra, a small place in Sligo with a story from August 1782. A gang calling themselves the regiment of cudgelers, about two hundred strong and active across the baronies of Leyny and Tireragh, showed up at the fair here. Over a hundred of them came armed with cudgels and oak boughs, striking people as they passed along. They attacked a party of the Independent Tyreril Volunteers who were recruiting for the navy, pelting them so severely with stones that the Volunteers had to take shelter in the Strand-house. Lewis Francis Irwin heard what was happening and came immediately to their assistance. Four men, Michael Kenny, Owen Kenny, Maurice Marley, and Francis M'Cowen, were committed to the county gaol for the riot.

30. Tenants resist distraining warrant, cite King O'Connell

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1828

    In 1828, a Sligo gentleman sent a distraining warrant to impound cattle of tenants who would pay only the Catholic Rent. The landholders simultaneously declared they would resist any writ not issued direct from King O'Connell, though they were eventually induced to submit to the mandate of King George.

    Read the passage

    A Sligo newspaper of the year 1828 set forth how a gentleman " was under the necessity of sending a distraining warrant for the impounding, &c., of cattle belonging to some tenants of his, who would pay no other than the ' Catholic Rent.' On the authority under which they (the bailiffs) were about to act being produced to the landholders, they ' simultaneously ' expressed their determination to resist any writ which did not issue direct from King O'Connell. The people were, however, induced to listen to reason, and they ultimately submitted to the mandate of King George."

    In 1829 the long report of a committee appointed by the Protestants of Sligo to inquire " into the extent of exclusive dealing," contained the following instructive paragraph : —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 162

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town is just ahead. Back in 1828 a local gentleman had to send a distraining warrant to impound the cattle of tenants who would pay only the Catholic Rent. When the bailiffs produced their authority, the landholders simultaneously declared they would resist any writ that did not issue direct from King O'Connell. In the end they were induced to listen to reason and submitted to the mandate of King George.

31. Bribery at Sligo Borough election: Macdonogh vs Armstrong

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    A Sligo Borough parliamentary election contest between Macdonogh and Serjeant Armstrong was marred by extensive bribery. Macdonogh's supporters distributed £423 among voters, while Armstrong's agents distributed £1480 in bribes to approximately ninety-seven voters, averaging over £15 each.

    Read the passage

    The night before the polling, according to the Beport of the "Sligo Election Inquiry Commission," Macdonogh's election was judged by his principal supporters to be in great danger ; and a sum of £490 was advanced by one of his friends to be applied in influencing the votes of the wavering electors. Of this sum £423 was distributed among voters as a consideration for their having voted for Macdonogh ; most of this money was paid some time after the election, but the doubtful voters were made aware, at the time of the contest, that money would be forthcoming. Macdonogh was cognizant of the transaction, and subsequently repaid the money advanced for him ; his total expenditure at this election was £905, of which the abovementioned sum of £490 formed part ; the residue was employed in defrajdng the legitimate expenses. Serjeant Armstrong expended on this election the sum of £2240 ; of this amount £615 was applied in defraying the legitimate expenses, £140 was distributed among mobs, and the residue (£1480) was expended in bribery. The whole of the last-mentioned sum was paid some eight or nine months after the election. About that time several applications were made to Serjeaiit Armstrong stating that his supporters were dissatisfied, and that something was expected of him. The Serjeant's conducting agent and his agent for election expenses were sent down to the Borough in consequence of these communications ; and on their arrival had an interview with some of Serjeant Armstrong's principal supporters. Lists were made out of the persons who should receive money, and the sums to be given, and £1480 was handed over to be distributed, which sum was subsequently repaid by Serjeant Armstrong, whose recollection, derived from documents, was that the number of voters

    60 HISTORY OF SLIGO.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 29

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this town was the scene of a parliamentary borough election so corrupt it drew an inquiry commission. The contest between Macdonogh and Serjeant Armstrong saw both sides bribing voters. The night before polling, Macdonogh's supporters judged his election to be in danger, and a friend advanced £490 to influence wavering electors. Of this, £423 went to voters as consideration for voting for Macdonogh, most paid after the election, though the doubters were told during the contest that money would come. Macdonogh knew of it, repaid the advance, and spent £905 in total. Armstrong spent £2240: £615 on legitimate expenses, £140 distributed among mobs, and £1480 on bribery. That money was paid out eight or nine months after the election, when his supporters were dissatisfied and making clear something was expected. His agents came to the borough, drew up lists of who should receive what, and handed over £1480 for distribution. Armstrong later repaid it, his documents recalling that about ninety-seven voters were bribed, averaging over £15 each.

32. Disfranchisement of Sligo Borough for corrupt practices

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1870

    Following the Special Commission's findings of extensive bribery and corruption, the Borough of Sligo was formally disfranchised by Act 33 & 34 Vict. c. 38. Queen's counsel, barristers, magistrates, merchants, and officials named in the reports were subjected to disqualifications under the Corrupt Practices Prevention Act.

    Read the passage

    After a searching investigation, which lasted five days. Judge Keogh unseated Major Knox, declaring the election to be void by reason of bribery by his agents, acquitting him, however, personally of knowledge, but directing that he should pay the costs of the petition. Major Knox subsequently stated that tlie election and petition cost him nearly £8000.^ The Judge reported to the House of Commons that he had reason to believe that corrupt practices and bribery extensively prevailed at this and previous elections. The result of this report was the staying by the House of Commons of a new writ, and tlie ordering of a Special Commission to issue for the purpose of examining into the subject of corrupt practices existing at the three last elections, and appointing D. C. Heron, U.C, J. A. Byrne, and W. R. Bruce as Commissioners to make the inquiry, and report thereon. This Commission sat for the first time in the County Court-house, Sligo, on the 5th October, 1869, and finally closed in December. Upon a report and return to the House of Commons of these Commissioners," a bill was brought in to disfranchise the Borough of Sligo for the corrupt practices that were reported. The result was its disfranchisement by 33 & 34 Yict. c. 38 ; and a number of celebrities of the day. Queen's counsel, barristers, justices of the peace, gentlemen, merchants, and persons holding official appointments were, on their names being scheduled in the reports of the Judge

    ^ Major Knox died 24th January, 1873, aged 36 years.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 30

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you're travelling a town that lost its parliamentary representation in 1870 over corruption. Judge Keogh unseated Major Knox after a five-day investigation, declaring the election void because of bribery by Knox's agents, though he acquitted Knox himself of personal knowledge. Knox had to pay the petition costs and said the whole affair cost him nearly £8000. The judge then reported to the House of Commons that corrupt practices and bribery extensively prevailed at this and previous elections. The House stayed the new writ and ordered a Special Commission, appointing D. C. Heron, J. A. Byrne, and W. R. Bruce as commissioners. They sat in the County Court-house from the 5th of October 1869 and closed in December. Their report led to a bill to disfranchise the borough, carried by Act 33 and 34 Victoria chapter 38. Queen's counsel, barristers, magistrates, merchants, and officials named in the reports faced disqualification under the Corrupt Practices Prevention Act. Major Knox died on the 24th of January 1873, aged 36 years.

33. MacDermott, 'Prince of Coolavin', and his chieftain customs

    Coolavin · electoral division · Sligo

    Arthur Young, touring Ireland in the late 18th century, described the MacDermott family at Coolavin in Sligo, whose head styled himself 'Prince of Coolavin'. Despite an income of only about £100 a year, the chief observed aristocratic formalities, reportedly not allowing his children to sit in his presence and greeting visiting gentry with hierarchical salutations.

    Read the passage

    "Another great family in Connaught is Mac Dermott, who calls himself ' Prince of Coolavin ' ; he lives at Coohivin in Sligo, and though he has not above £100 a year, will not admit his children to sit down in his presence. This was certainly the case with his father, and some assured me, even with the present Chief, Lord Kingsborough, Mr. Ponsonby, Mr. O'Hara, Mr. Sandf ord, &'', came to see him, and his address was curious : * O'Hara, you are welcome ; Sandford I am glad to see your mother's son (his mother was an O'Brian) ; as to the rest of ye, come in as you can ! "

    The sufferers through injuries inflicted loj the three years of constant strife sought compensation from Parliament, but sought in vain ; ten thousand pounds was voted, but never given, nor indeed could a sum so small have been of any real service, so numerous were the applicants.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 3

34. Mass emigration surge from Sligo port, 1830–1831

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1830–1831

    In 1830 the stream of emigrants from Sligo became a torrent, with three vessels clearing the port for America on a single May day and hundreds more awaiting other vessels. In April 1831, thirteen vessels were in port for passengers to British America and the States, and by 31st August thirty vessels had left with 4495 souls.

    Read the passage

    tliem have come Lack again." From 1760 to 1792, the population had nearly doubled ; in 1820 tliere was a constant, steady stream of emigrants, increased by the privations of 1822, whilst, in 1830, the stream may be said to have become a torrent. On one day in the month of May, three vessels cleared out of the port with emigrants for America, and hundreds were waiting in Sligo for tlie sailing of other vessels which were fitting up. In June of the same j'ear three sailing ships left with 500 emigrants; there was even a greater stir in 1831 — the year anterior to the cholera. It was stated that in April of that year, thirteen vessels were in port for the conveyance of passengers to Britisli America and tlie States, and several others were daily expected. Many respectable families were preparing to leave the town, which was crowded with country people awaiting the sailing of vessels. Up to 31st August thirty vessels had left Sligo with a total of 4495 souls.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are travelling a port town that saw one of the great surges of emigration from Ireland. From 1760 to 1792 the population had nearly doubled, and by 1820 a steady stream of people was leaving, swollen by the privations of 1822. In 1830 that stream became a torrent. On a single day in May of that year, three vessels cleared the port for America, with hundreds more waiting in the town for other ships still fitting up. In June, three more sailing ships left carrying 500 emigrants. The stir was even greater in 1831, the year before the cholera. In April, thirteen vessels were in port for passengers to British America and the States, with several more daily expected. Many respectable families were preparing to leave, and the town was crowded with country people awaiting sailings. By 31st August, thirty vessels had left Sligo carrying a total of 4495 souls.

35. Ruin of St. Columbkille's church at Keelty, Drumcliff

    Keelty · townland · Sligo

    In the townland of Keelty, parish of Drumcliff, are the remains of a ruined church said to have been founded by St. Columbkille. Only unbaptized infants are now buried in the surrounding graveyard, and locals believe such children turn into owls.

    Read the passage

    In the townland of Keelty, in the parish of Drumcliff, are the remains of a ruined church, founded, according to local tradition, by St. Columbkille. It is stated that the only burials which now take place in the surrounding grave-yard are tlie remains of infants who die unbaptized. Some residents in the neighbourhood hold the strange belief that such children are turned into owls, and therefore they regard it as unlucky to kill these birds. Black cats possess special demoniac power, and are frequently appointed guardians of hidden treasure. To buy a horse from a priest or a parson is unlucky. One of the most generally credited superstitious was that of the " Evil Eye." A certain cure for warts is supposed to be to steal a piece of raw meat and bury it ; according as the meat decays so will the warts diminish.

    Many legends with which the history of the country abounded date so early as from the sixth century. Those connected with Sligo were in process of being transcribed and translated when a stop was put to the work by the death of the late W. H. Hennessy.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 190

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here are the remains of a ruined church, said to have been founded by St. Columbkille. Only unbaptized infants are buried in the graveyard now. Local belief says these children turn into owls, and killing the birds is thought unlucky. The same passage lists other beliefs held in the neighbourhood: black cats as guardians of hidden treasure, bad luck in buying a horse from a priest or parson, and the widely credited superstition of the Evil Eye. A supposed wart cure was to steal raw meat and bury it, the warts fading as the meat decayed. Legends dating back to the sixth century were being transcribed and translated for Sligo, but the work stopped with the death of W. H. Hennessy.

36. Sligo pensioner receives gift from Napoleon III, 1855

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1855

    Allen Armstrong, an old army pensioner living in Sligo, had served thirty years in the army and was stationed at St. Helena during Napoleon's confinement, where his wife acted as the Emperor's washerwoman. In 1855, Napoleon III sent Armstrong a cheque for £19 on a Sligo bank in recognition of this service.

    Read the passage

    ^ An old army pensioner named Allen Armstrong and his wife received in the year 1855 a cheque for £19 on a Sligo Bank from the Private Secretary of the Emperor Napoleon. Armstrong had served 30 years in the army, and was stationed at St. Helena when Napoleon was confined there, and for a length of time his wife acted in the capacity of washerwoman to the Emperor. This fact being brought under the notice of Napoleon III., by a Memorial, the above remittance was the result. Armstrong served in eleven battles against Napoleon I., and by a strange chance received a gratuity from his successor. — The Sligo Champion, 28th April, 1855.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Sligo town. Back in 1855, an old army pensioner named Allen Armstrong living here received a cheque for 19 pounds on a Sligo bank from the private secretary of Emperor Napoleon the Third. Armstrong had served 30 years in the army and was stationed at Saint Helena during Napoleon's confinement, where his wife acted as the Emperor's washerwoman. A memorial bringing this to Napoleon the Third's notice prompted the gift. Armstrong had fought in eleven battles against Napoleon the First, and by a strange chance received a gratuity from his successor.

37. Smuggling bust at Sligo Bay's Tower Beacon, 1828

    near Sligo Bay · bay · Sligo · 1828

    A daring smuggler anchored his fast cutter off the Tower Beacon (site of present Blackrock Lighthouse) in 1828. Coast-guards at Rauglily raised the alarm, all Sligo Bay stations responded, and 222 half bales of tobacco and two boats were seized, effectively ending large-scale smuggling in Sligo.

    Read the passage

    A very daring and successful smuggler was captain of a very fast cutter, which had been repeatedly chased, but had always escaped with ease. In 1828 he stole in, under cover of the darkness, and dropped anchor off the " Tower Beacon" which occupied the site of the present Blackrock Light-house. The strange cutter was soon observed by the coast-guard at Rauglily, and the alarm by signal immediately given. All the stations in Sligo Bay promptly answered and attended tlie summons. A vigilant search was immediately commenced which terminated in the illicit traffickers being surprised. They had prepared a cave, in which, however, they had not time to deposit the cargo, and two of the men engaged in concealing the goods were made prisoners ; 222 half bales of tobacco (about six tons weiglit) were secured, and the two boats belonging to the cutter were seized. This was the death-knell of smuggling, and it is doubtful if an attempt was ever again made to run a large cargo into Sligo, although a small contraband traffic lingered on for a few years. In June, 1836, some half bales of smuggled tobacco were seized — part of a cargo which had been successfully lauded — and a week later, three half bales were seized in a cart in the streets of Sligo.

    Sunday drinking was formerly — as at present — very prevalent. In 1834 Inglis visited a house, near the lake, to which citizens of Sligo resorted on Sundays, and he there tasted a favourite beverage called scolteen, composed of wliiskey, eggs, sugar, butter, caraway-seed, and beer. From about the j-ear 1839, a considerable falling off took place in the consumption of ardent spirits, for it was about this period that Father Mathew commenced his crusade against intemperance in Sligo. Thackeray thus describes him : — " A stout, handsome, honest-looking man of some two-aud-forty years, was passing by, and received a number of bows fi-om the crowd around ; it was Tlieobald Mathew, with whose face a thousand little print-shop windoM's had already rendered me familiar. He shook hands with the master

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 169

38. The Metal Man beacon on Perch Rock erected 1822

    Rosses Point · town · Sligo · 1822

    A stone-built beacon surmounted by a gigantic metal figure of a sailor, called The Metal Man, was erected in 1822 on the Perch Rock between Rosses Point and Oyster Island. A legend relates that the Metal Man leaves his pedestal at certain times of year and goes ashore to the Rosses.

    Read the passage

    "The Commissioners for improving the Town and Harbour of Sligo will receive plans, estimates, and proposals for erecting a suitable pillar on the Perch Rock, to be not less than ten feet over highwater mark, upon which is to be fixed the ' Metal Man,' now lying on the new quay ; and that fenders be fixed to the northern side thereof, to protect vessels coming in contact with it ; the pillar to be perpendicular to the base on the north side. Monday, the 11th of February, is fixed on for approving of the estimate, and declaring the constructor.

    " By order, T. Eeed, Secretary.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 112

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up near Rosses Point in Sligo, there's a stone beacon on Perch Rock between here and Oyster Island, put up in 1822. The Commissioners for improving the Town and Harbour of Sligo sought plans for a pillar not less than ten feet over high water mark, topped with the Metal Man, a gigantic metal figure of a sailor. Fenders were to be fixed on the northern side to protect vessels coming in contact with it. A legend says the Metal Man leaves his pedestal at certain times of year and goes ashore to the Rosses.

39. Burning of Mr. Henry's house at Knocknarea, 1797

    near Knocknarea · mountain or mountain range · Sligo · 1797

    A few nights after the attack on Mount Edward, armed insurgents burned the house of Mr. Henry at Knocknarea, near Sligo. The incident formed part of a sustained campaign of arson and intimidation against landed gentry in the Sligo area.

    Read the passage

    " jS[ow to inform you of the situation of this country at present, and the immediate prospect before us. . . . They began a few days ago by burning the haggards of Mr. Thomas Jones of Mount Edward, a few miles below Sligo ; a few nights after they burned the house of Mr. Henry at Knocknarea ; a few nights after stripped Mr. "Wynne's gatehouse of the lead, which they took for bullets ; and the night before last, set fire to the haggard of Mr. A. Irwin of Willowbrook. It is thought they will burn on without mercy or distinction. There is a total stop to trade ; no circulation of money ; no demand for cattle — the graziers afraid to buy, they are in such dread of houghing."

    In November, 1799, the " cattle markets were very bad, and the crops in a dismal way." In March of the following year provisions of all kinds were very scarce and amazingly high in price ; starvation among the poor was dreaded.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 162

    As the companion tells it

    As you come near Knocknarea, that mountain above Sligo, you are passing a place where the campaign of arson that swept this county in 1797 left its mark. A few nights after agitators burned the haggards of Mr. Thomas Jones at Mount Edward, they came here and burned the house of Mr. Henry. It did not stop there. A few nights later they stripped Mr. Wynne's gatehouse of its lead, taking it for bullets, and then set fire to the haggard of Mr. A. Irwin of Willowbrook. The writer of the time said it was thought they would

40. Duel involving Somers and Fawcett

    Cummeen · townland · Sligo

    A duel was fought in the presence of a large gathering of peasantry, contrary to an agreement for privacy. Somers fell at the first discharge and, though wounded, used language so severe that Fawcett's second refused to withdraw him until requested by Somers' second. Fawcett's party narrowly escaped a murderous attack by the surrounding mob.

    Read the passage

    P. Somers, in the presence of a large number of the peasantry, who were there gathered — contrary to the agreement previously made as regards privacy. Somers fell at the first discharge. Though wounded and disabled, Somers gave utterance to such language that Fawcett's second refused to withdraw him from the ground until requested so to do by Somers' second. Fawcett and his party had a narrow escape ; the slightest false step might have led to a murderous attack on them by the surrounding mob.

    A duel took place at Cummin on 17th May, 1836 ; three shots were exchanged ; but though in each instance the clothing of the principals was cut by the bullets, no actual wound was inflicted.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 161

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, a duel was fought between Somers and Fawcett. A large crowd of peasantry had gathered, contrary to an agreement that the affair would be private. Somers fell at the first discharge. Though wounded and disabled, he used such severe language that Fawcett's second refused to withdraw him from the ground until Somers' own second requested it. Fawcett and his party narrowly escaped. The slightest false step might have led to a murderous attack on them by the surrounding mob.

41. Fatal duel at Ballyshannon between Sligo gentleman and officer

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1820–1830

    A quarrel arose in Ballyshannon between a Sligo gentleman and a uniformed officer, leading to a duel. The Sligo gentleman demanded the right to use a sword due to his fencing skill, but the officer's second refused. At the first exchange of shots the officer was killed instantly, shot through the heart.

    Read the passage

    When on a visit to Ballyshannon, a quarrel arose between a Sligo gentleman and an officer; the latter being in uniform drew his sword, whereupon the former claimed tlie right of using that weajion at tlie meeting; the officer's second, however, refused to consent to this arrangement, the Sligo gentleman being celebrated for his skill at fence. At the first exchange of shots the officer sprang into the air and dropped dead, shot through the heart.

    John — or as he was universally called Jack — Taaffe was a notorious duellist, ever on the look-out for a pretext for a quarrel ; the stories related of him, his eccentricities and encounters, are innumerable.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 160

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Ballyshannon now, in Donegal. Around 1810 or so, a quarrel broke out here between a Sligo gentleman and an officer in uniform. The officer drew his sword, and the Sligo man claimed the right to use that weapon at the meeting, but the officer's second refused, because the Sligo gentleman was celebrated for his skill at fence. So they went to pistols instead, and at the first exchange of shots the officer sprang into the air and dropped dead, shot through the heart. The Sligo gentleman was Jack Taaffe, a notorious duellist, ever on the look-out for a pretext for a quarrel.

42. Fatal regatta accident at Sligo, 1881

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1881

    During the Sligo regatta in 1881, a club-boat was swamped in a heavy breeze and two of the crew drowned. A third crew member was saved by Mr. Wynne in a punt, while allegations were made that another boat's crew rowed away from the drowning men.

    Read the passage

    the melanelioly accident whicli occurred at the regatta in 1881 may have tended to produce the decline of the amusement. One of the club-boats was swamped in a heavy breeze, two of the crew were drowned, the third being saved by Mr. "Wynne, who fortunately happened to be close at hand in a punt ; it was alleged that the crew of another boat rowed away from the drowning men.

    A medal for this club was designed by the well-known artist, John Woodhouse, and eighteen specimens, it is said, were struck ; six in silver, and twelve in white metal. It bears the inscription. Commercial Rowing Club, Sligo, in small letters, round a blank centre ; on the reverse are the arms of Sligo — a square tower and tree ; at base a hare running, &c., size 1"3.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 199

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are in the town where a regatta turned deadly in 1881. A club boat was swamped in a heavy breeze and two of the crew drowned. A third man was saved by Mr. Wynne, who happened to be close by in a punt. It was alleged that the crew of another boat rowed away from the drowning men. The accident may have helped bring about the decline of the sport here. A medal for the club was designed by the artist John Woodhouse, with 18 specimens struck, 6 in silver and 12 in white metal, bearing the words "Commercial Rowing Club, Sligo" and the arms of Sligo on the reverse.

43. Sligo Mendicity Institution and famine relief

    Albert Road · street · Cork · 1822–1824

    Founded in April 1824 in the old House of Correction on Albert Road, Sligo, following the 1822 famine, the Mendicity Institution provided meals and employment to paupers. By the end of its first year, 50,507 meals had been given to 29,753 persons.

    Read the passage

    The Institution was formed in April, 182i, in the old House of Correction, a site close behind the present police barracks in Albert-road, and at the termination of the first year 50,507 meals had been given to 29,753 persons. The total amount of contributions, entirely from voluntary subscriptions supplemented by the proceeds of charity sermons preached in the various places of worship in Sligo, amounted to upwards of £501, but the expenditure was £547, whilst from a separate fund, raised for the purpose, 64 suits of wearing apparel were issued.

    The number of paupers at first permanently admitted was 130, but the establishment was finally regulated so as not, if possible, to exceed 60.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 80

    As the companion tells it

    Along here is where the old House of Correction stood, the building that became the Sligo Mendicity Institution in April 1824, set up after the 1822 famine. In its first year it gave 50,507 meals to 29,753 persons. The money came from voluntary subscriptions and charity sermons preached in Sligo's places of worship, raising over £501, though spending reached £547. A separate fund issued 64 suits of clothing. The institution permanently admitted 130 paupers at first, but was later regulated to keep to no more than 60 if possible.

44. 146 tithe actions tried at Sligo Quarter Sessions, 1807

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1807

    In 1807, 146 actions respecting tithes were tried at the Quarter Sessions in County Sligo, reflecting widespread conflict over tithe collection. In Sligo it was customary before harvest to sell tithes at auction, with promissory notes inducing bids.

    Read the passage

    In former times the clergymen of the Irish Church, as by law established, derived the principal part of their income from tithes, which were in the last century generally taken in kind — from wheat, barley, oats, flax, wool, hay, &c. The usual mode of collecting tithes at the commencement of this century was by an agent, called a proctor, who, immediately before harvest, estimated the quantity of coru, hay, or flax, which he supposed then to be on the ground, and — charging the market price — ascertained the amount to be paid by the owner. In some cases the incumbent let his tithe as he might a farm, and the money was collected from the occupier ; but very frequently the lessee re-let the tithe to another, and the former was then styled the middle proctor. In Sligo it was customary previous to harvest to call a sale, at which the tithe was disposed of to any person who chose to buy it ; but in this manner it would sell for little, did not the temptation of a promissory-note at six months induce persons to bid. According to Cobbett's Parliamentanj Debates there were 146 actions respecting tithe tried in the year 1807 at the Quarter Sessions in the County Sligo.

    It was in the year 1806 that the " threshing- system " was instituted amongst the peasantry, and gangs went about forcing upon the people an oath not to take their tithes to the parson on any terms, but to leave to him the task of collecting and drawing them home.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 163

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are travelling through a town where the tithe was once sold before harvest. The clergymen of the Irish Church drew their income from tithes, taken in kind from wheat, barley, oats, flax, wool, and hay. At the start of this century the usual way of collecting was through an agent called a proctor, who came out before harvest, estimated the corn or hay or flax he supposed was on the ground, charged the market price, and told the owner what to pay. Sometimes the incumbent let his tithe as he might let a farm, and the money came from the occupier. But the lessee often relet the tithe to another man, and was then called the middle proctor. In Sligo the custom was to call a sale before harvest, at which the tithe went to anyone who chose to buy it. It would sell for little, but a promissory note at six months tempted people to bid. In 1807, 146 actions respecting tithe were tried at the Quarter Sessions in County Sligo. The year before, in 1806, the "threshing system" had been instituted among the peasantry. Gangs went about forcing people to swear an oath not to take their tithes to the parson on any terms, but to leave him to collect and draw them home himself.

45. 1822 Sligo County election: King vs Perceval, riots and military fire

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1822

    On the death of Mr. O'Hara, his son declined to stand, triggering the most bitterly contested election ever in County Sligo. Religious feeling was greatly excited, the military fired on the mob who pelted them with stones, and one officer was severely injured.

    Read the passage

    gentleman from the County Eoscommon whom it would be inconvenient to detain. The titular Bishop of Killala was then brought forward — a measure intended to produce a religious effect upon the electors ; and, therefore, with a view of maintaining perfect impartiality on both sides, the High Sheriff, Colonel Irwin, refused to allow any poll to be taken till the Monday. In this election religious feeling was greatly excited : the military had to fire on the mob, who pelted them, and one of the oJEficers was severely injured. " Stones were flying as fast as hailstones : it was some time before the riot could be quelled ; however, the soldiers' firing had the effect of stopping the practice of stone-throwing afterwards."

    In distant parts of the County, roads were either cut or had walls built across them during the night, by the peasantry, in order to prevent cars from reaching Sligo with voters in time to be safely housed and protected from intimidation before nightfall ; the houses of electors were visited by mobs for the purpose of warning them to vote only as directed. In the streets of the town, during successive days, there was more or less rioting; and in the booths were to be heard scuffling, wrangling, intemperate language, charges of bribery, partiality, and intimidation.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 19

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are in the town where the most bitterly contested election in County Sligo took place in 1822. It followed the death of Mr. O'Hara, whose son declined to stand, and the contest between King and Perceval drew religious feeling to a pitch. The titular Bishop of Killala was brought forward to produce a religious effect on the electors, and the High Sheriff, Colonel Irwin, refused to allow any poll until Monday to keep things impartial. It was no use. The military fired on the mob, who pelted them with stones, and one officer was severely injured. The source says, "Stones were flying as fast as hailstones: it was some time before the riot could be quelled; however, the soldiers' firing had the effect of stopping the practice of stone-throwing afterwards." Out in the countryside, peasants cut roads or built walls across them at night to stop cars bringing voters to Sligo. Mobs visited electors' houses to warn them how to vote. For days the streets of the town saw rioting, and inside the booths there was scuffling, wrangling, and charges of bribery, partiality, and intimidation.

46. 1837 Sligo election and sheriff Sir William Parke fined

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1837

    In the 1837 Sligo county election Cooper polled 511, Perceval 443, Jones 368, and M'Dermott 6. Party spirit ran high; the sheriff Sir William Parke placed every possible Liberal on the grand jury, for which he was fined by the Judge of Assize.

    Read the passage

    Party spirit in this (1837) and the following year, ran excessively high. The sheriff, Sir William Parke, placed on the grand jury every possible member of the Liberal party, commencing at the bottom of the panel, thus excluding most of the members who usually attended the assizes. For so acting, and for not having called representatives for baronies, he was fined by the Judge of Assize, before whom the matter was brought.

    Sligo then, and for long after, remained thoroughly Conservative, owing to the good feeling that existed between landlords and tenants, and also to a majority of the voters being Protestant. In 1845 O'Conuell stated that " Sligo County was in a bad way," i. e. according to his view of tJie subject ; and he visited it for the purpose of stirring up a contest— not with any hopes of winning either seat, but with the avowed intention of making the Conservatives spend money. In 1841 William Pichard Ormsby Gore, Jun., became member

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you're in a town that saw a fierce county election in 1837, when Cooper polled 511 votes, Perceval 443, Jones 368, and M'Dermott just 6. Party spirit ran so high that the sheriff, Sir William Parke, stacked the grand jury with every Liberal he could, starting from the bottom of the panel. The Judge of Assize fined him for it, and for failing to call representatives for the baronies. Sligo stayed thoroughly Conservative for a long time after, as the book puts it, owing to "the good feeling that existed between landlords and tenants" and a majority of Protestant voters. In 1845 O'Connell called the county "in a bad way" and visited to stir up a contest, not expecting to win but to make the Conservatives spend money.

47. 1853 Sligo election: Sadleir defeats Somers

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1853

    On 7 July 1853, a fresh election was held in Sligo Borough. John Sadleir, who had failed to be returned for Carlow, polled 152 votes to Somers's 142. Somers petitioned but was unsuccessful. Sadleir was later found dead on Hampstead Heath in 1856 amid rumours of flight and enormous liabilities.

    Read the passage

    On the 7th July, 1853, there was a fresh election. The constituency is said to have then numbered 336, but the real total fell somewhat short of that figure. Somers was opposed by the afterwards notorious John Sadleir, who had failed in being returned for Carlow. Sadleir polled 152 votes to Somers's 142 ; the latter petitioned, but was unsuccessful. On the IStb February, 1856, the dead body of John Sadleir was found on Hampstead Heath, and it was stated that he had committed suicide ; at the same time, however, stories were afloat asserting that it was not his body that was discovered, but that he had fled the country in order to escape his very serious liabilities which were subsequently discovered to be something enormous, and the available assets to be of comparatively microscopic proportions.

    In the Borough, some of his own political party were thoroughly disgusted with Somers, who had come to look on the seat to be as much his private property as had the Wynne family in former years. The Conservatives put forward the lit. Hon. John Wynne (Under-Secretary during the Yiceroyalty of the Earl of Eglinton), and a subscription was raised to bring in their candidate " free of cost to himself." As regards

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 27

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is the town where a bitter election played out in 1853. On the 7th of July that year, a fresh election was held for the borough, with a constituency said to number 336, though the real total fell somewhat short. Somers was opposed by John Sadleir, a man who had already failed to be returned for Carlow. Sadleir polled 152 votes to Somers's 142, and Somers petitioned the result but was unsuccessful. Sadleir went on to become notorious. On the 1st of February 1856, his dead body was found on Hampstead Heath, and it was said he had taken his own life. But stories were circulating that it was not really his body at all, and that he had fled the country to escape liabilities that proved to be enormous, with assets that were comparatively microscopic. Back in the borough, some of Somers's own political party were thoroughly disgusted with him, for he had come to regard the seat as his private property, much as the Wynne family had in former years.

48. Armed guards on the Sligo to Dublin mail coach

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1810–1844

    In 1810, the Sligo mail coach from Dublin departed with a double guard armed to resist highwaymen. The armed guard on the daily coach to Ballina was not dispensed with until 1844.

    Read the passage

    roads were rough, and gradients entirely disregarded, the horses liad to be chosen more for strength than speed. About the year 1790 a new stage-coach was advertised to commence running between Dublin and Sligo. As an inducement to intending passengers the announcement was set forth in large type, that it " was lined with copper, and therefore completely bullet-proof." In 1810 the Sligo mail from Dublin started every night at a quarter before eight, from the " Royal Mail Coach Office, Hibernian Hotel, 40, Dawson-street," with- a " double guard," these two guards being armed to resist highwaymen ; and it was not until the year 1844 that the armed guard on the daily coach to Ballina was first dispensed with. In 1812 there was only one stage-coach plying in the great district that lies between Belfast and Sligo, viz, the Dublin and Londonderry mail. From Sligo, in a direction southward to Tuam, there was only one common pass into the county Mayo, by Killala. Up to the year 1815, remarked Mr. Bianconi, the public accommodation for conveyance of passengers in Ireland was confined to a few mailand day coaches on the great lines of road. Nothing was more striking than the great want in travelling accommodation ; for instance, a farmer living twenty or thirty miles from his market-town spent the first day in riding to it, the second in transacting his business, and the third in returning. A good example of the " expeditious travelling " of the year 1823, is afforded by the following advertisement from the columns of the Sligo Journal: —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 104

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Sligo now, the town the road passes through. In the early 1800s, travel on these roads was rough and slow. Around 1790, a new stage-coach was advertised to run between Dublin and Sligo, the announcement set forth in large type that it "was lined with copper, and therefore completely bullet-proof." In 1810, the Sligo mail from Dublin started every night at a quarter before eight, from the Royal Mail Coach Office, Hibernian Hotel, 40 Dawson Street, with a "double guard," these two guards being armed to resist highwaymen. And it was not until 1844 that the armed guard on the daily coach to Ballina was first dispensed with. In 1812, there was only one stage-coach plying the great district between Belfast and Sligo, the Dublin and Londonderry mail. From Sligo, southward to Tuam, only one common pass led into County Mayo, by Killala. Up to 1815, as Mr. Bianconi remarked, public accommodation for conveying passengers in Ireland was confined to a few mail and day coaches on the great lines of road. A farmer living twenty or thirty miles from his market town spent the first day riding to it, the second transacting his business, and the third returning.

49. Battle of Collooney: Vereker checks the French

    Collooney · townland · Sligo · 1798

    Colonel Vereker marched from Sligo with about 286 men and two curricle guns to engage the French and rebels near Collooney. Despite inferior numbers, he gave them a severe check lasting over ninety minutes, forcing the French to divert towards Dromahair instead of attacking Sligo.

    Read the passage

    Wlien the French reached the village of Collooney, distant about six miles from Sligo, the inliabitants of the latter town, were in the utmost consternation. Sligo contained property to the amount of at least £200,000 ; there were in its harbour several ships, and in its vicinity were twelve well-furnished bleachyards. The small force of six- hundred effective men stationed there was ordered to evacuate it ; however. Colonel Vereker with a detachment of the city of Limerick Militia and a few yeomen, the whole not exceeding two hundred and eiglity-six men, with two curricle guns^, marched out, engaged the French and the rebels, giving them so severe a check, notwithstanding

    1 Particulars are here given of the corps engaged in the battle of Collooney, as taken from The Sligo Journal of 14th Sept. : —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 9

50. Cholera epidemic strikes Sligo, 1832

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1832

    The first cholera case appeared on 29th July 1832, but people threatened vengeance against medical men who reported it. By 11th August the disease was undeniable. A Board of Superintendence of thirteen members was formed, and Sligo ultimately suffered more severely than any other town in Ireland.

    Read the passage

    The first case of cholera was seen on the 29th July, 1832, but the people " threatened vengeance against the medical men who reported the fact." On the 11th of August, however, there could no longer be any doubt of its presence amongst them ; its appearance had been preceded by thunder and lightning, accompanied with a hot, close atmosphere. A " Board of Superintendence" consisting of thirteen members was formed to look after affairs in the Borough during the epidemic, but they could effect little to stay the ravages of the pestilence, except by trying to enforce cleanliness, proper ventilation, and the precautions which were then thought of use to ward off the attack.

    The present Fever Hospital, being situated on an eminence at a short distance from the town, and detached from other buildings, was considered the most suitable place to be devoted to the reception of cholera patients, and the rapidity with which the unhappy victims were carried off rendered it essential that a large supply of coffins should always be in readiness. These were placed in great numbers on the field behind the hospital, and the fresli wood of whicli they were composed stood out in sti'ong relief on the deep green sod of the hill, from which the ground sloped away on every side, thus rendering the ghastly pile of coffins plainly observable at a distance of two or three miles. It was no unconnnon thing in those direful days to see persons who had fallen victims to the terrible malady lying dead in the streets; these corpses were wrapped in sheets smeared

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Sligo, the town the road passes through. In 1832 this was the town in Ireland that suffered most from cholera. The first case appeared on the 29th of July, but people threatened vengeance against the medical men who reported it. By the 11th of August there was no doubting the disease was among them. Its coming had been preceded by thunder and lightning, with a hot, close atmosphere. A Board of Superintendence of thirteen members was formed to manage affairs in the borough, but they could do little beyond trying to enforce cleanliness, ventilation, and the precautions then thought useful. The Fever Hospital, on a hill outside the town, was given over to cholera patients. Victims were carried off so rapidly that coffins had to be kept in constant readiness, stacked in great numbers on the field behind the hospital. The fresh wood of those coffins stood out against the deep green sod of the hill, making the pile plainly visible from two or three miles away. It was no uncommon thing to see persons who had fallen to the malady lying dead in the streets, wrapped in sheets smeared

51. Dr. Thomas Little dies of cholera attending patients

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1849–1852

    Dr. Thomas Little, the County Surgeon, was one of the first victims of the cholera visitation, dying in a neighbouring house after being attacked in the hospital. A marble bust by sculptor Barter was placed in the County Infirmary entrance hall in 1852.

    Read the passage

    It was a peculiarity attending the second visitation of cholera in Sligo, that the town itself was, comparatively speaking, but slightly affected. The country districts, however, suffered severel3^ Dr. Thomas Little, the County Surgeon, was one of the first victims; lie was attacked whilst in the hospital, was too ill to be removed to his own residence, and died in a neighbouring house. In recognition of his zeal, some of his admirers, in 1852, decided on erecting a memorial to him, which took the form of a marble bust, executed by Barter, a then well-known young sculptor, and when finished the bust was placed in the entrance hall of the County Infirmary.

    I'he first patient attacked by cholera in 1849 was brought to the hospital on the 29th May, and died the same day; but between the 18th and 22nd August, 166 patients were admitted to the hospital and hospital sheds : the former provided 50, and the latter 100 beds. Of the patients 98 died, but 68 recovered. The epidemic ceased as abruptly as it had commenced.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is the town where the second cholera visitation struck, though the town itself was comparatively lightly affected while the country districts suffered severely. Dr. Thomas Little, the County Surgeon, was one of the first victims. He was attacked while in the hospital, was too ill to be removed to his own residence, and died in a neighbouring house. In 1852, some of his admirers erected a memorial to him, a marble bust executed by Barter, a well-known young sculptor, and it was placed in the entrance hall of the County Infirmary. The first patient attacked by cholera in 1849 was brought to the hospital on the 29th of May and died the same day. Between the 18th and 22nd of August, 166 patients were admitted to the hospital and hospital sheds, which between them provided 150 beds. Of those patients, 98 died and 68 recovered. The epidemic ceased as abruptly as it had commenced.

52. Fairy fort on Coney Island near Pollnaraaddow

    Inishmulclohy or Coney Island · townland · Sligo

    A fort on the cliff edge near Pollnaraaddow on Coney Island was associated with fairy lights, sounds of festivities, and faction fights among the 'good people.' An old islander claimed to have witnessed these phenomena, but said the fairies departed after illicit distillation ceased on the island.

    Read the passage

    Nuraeroiis instances of a similar nature could be cited. There is a fort on the edge of the clif?, close to a locality named Pollnaraaddow on Coney Island ; but here in addition to the fights an old islander avers that many years ago he saw lights in the place one night, and heard the sounds of fairy festivities ; he added, however, that since the abolition of illicit distillation these tiny inhabitants of his island had all emigrated, or had perhaps, returned to Tirncoioye I

    Duels bore a certain halo of legality, for single combats were formerly a very prevalent mode of "administering justice " in Ireland : they were authorized by law and usually occurred in presence of a distinguished company of onlookers. If the encounter was between two Irish chiefs, it was regarded with special favour. One of the last recorded exhibitions of this nature took place between Conor Mac Cormac 0' Conor and Teige Mac Gilpatrick O'Conor. They fought with broadswords and skeans (large knives or daggers) in the Castle of Dublin, in the presence of the Archbishop and all the chief authorities.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 157

    As the companion tells it

    There is a fort on the edge of a cliff, near a spot called Pollnaraaddow, somewhere close to Inishmulclohy or Coney Island. It was known for fights among the good people, the fairies. An old islander said that many years ago he saw lights there one night and heard the sounds of fairy festivities. He added that since the abolition of illicit distillation, these tiny inhabitants had all emigrated, or perhaps returned to Tirncologe. The book then turns to duels, which carried a certain halo of legality. Single combats were formerly a prevalent mode of administering justice in Ireland, authorized by law and usually occurring in the presence of a distinguished company of onlookers. An encounter between two Irish chiefs was regarded with special favour. One of the last recorded exhibitions of this kind took place between Conor Mac Cormac O'Conor and Teige Mac Gilpatrick O'Conor. They fought with broadswords and skeans, large knives or daggers, in the Castle of Dublin, in the presence of the Archbishop and all the chief authorities.

53. Fugitive Catholic families from Ulster settle in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1798

    In early 1798, fugitive Roman Catholic families from the North of Ireland arrived in Sligo seeking protection, gaining asylum through their knowledge of the linen manufacture. They spread along the sea-coast and brought prophecies of impending war that greatly affected the local populace.

    Read the passage

    The gentlemen and landholders of Sligo had prided themselves on the peaceable demeanour and respect for the laws which the people continued to evince, when most other parts of the kingdom were disturbed by the " United Irishmen"; the mass of the people, however, were universally infected with their doctrines, although they had not yet broken out into acts of open outrage. In the beginning of 1798, a number of fugitive Roman Catholic families from the North of Ireland arrived in Sligo seeking protection, as they alleged, and from their appearance of decency and industry, and their knowledge of the linen manufacture, they readily obtained an asylum from the gentlemen of the county. Many of these families spread themselves over the country, particularly near the sea-coast, and for some time they demeaned themselves in a peaceable and industrious manner. They brought with them, however, a number of prophecies (which they asserted had been delivered by the ancient Irish bards) foretelling the wars and calamities which were shortly to take place in the country. These prophecies had a great effect on the minds of the lower class of people, who were persuaded that the events predicted must necessarily come to pass.

    In point of fact, these northern families owed their expulsion from Ulster entirely to their violent political opinion and acts, and on the landing of the French they pressed forward to receive arms and ammunition from their new allies, chose leaders among

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 7

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo town, you are near where a strange migration ended in early 1798. A number of fugitive Roman Catholic families arrived here from the North of Ireland, expelled from Ulster for what the record calls their violent political opinions and acts. They sought protection, and from their appearance of decency and industry, and their knowledge of the linen manufacture, they readily obtained an asylum from the gentlemen of the county. Many of these families spread themselves over the country, particularly near the sea-coast, and for some time demeaned themselves in a peaceable and industrious manner. But they also brought with them a number of prophecies, which they asserted had been delivered by the ancient Irish bards, foretelling the wars and calamities shortly to take place. These prophecies had a great effect on the minds of the lower class of people, who were persuaded that the events predicted must necessarily come to pass. The mass of the people in Sligo were already infected with the doctrines of the United Irishmen, though they had not yet broken out into acts of open outrage. When the French later landed, these northern families pressed forward to receive arms and ammunition from their new allies and chose leaders among themselves.

54. Gideon Ouseley's Irish-language open-air preaching in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1789–1797

    Gideon Ouseley, described as Ireland's most successful evangelist, settled in Sligo and opened a school in the Bridge Street chapel. He and other ministers preached outdoors on market-days in the native Irish tongue, drawing large respectful crowds.

    Read the passage

    About this time Gideon Ouseley — " Ireland's most successful evangelist " — settled in the town, and opened a school in the little chapel in " Bridge-street," which was largely attended. He, with other ministers, preached in the open air, more especially on market-days, and as they addressed the people in their native Irish tongue, crowds gathered around, listening eagerly and respectfully. In 1797 Ouseley settled in Ballymote and delivered many outdoor addresses.

    In 1802 the old building in Sligo proving insufficient for the congregation, a new and more commodious one was erected in Linenhall-street. Later on, this was superseded by the present church, situated in Wine-street, and which was opened for Divine service on Sunday, 3rd June, 1832.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 71

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is where Gideon Ouseley, called Ireland's most successful evangelist, settled around 1789 and opened a school in the little chapel on Bridge Street. He and other ministers preached outdoors, especially on market days, addressing the people in their native Irish tongue. Crowds gathered around, listening eagerly and respectfully. He moved on to Ballymote in 1797, but the congregation he left behind kept growing. The old Bridge Street building proved too small by 1802, and a larger one went up on Linenhall Street. That in turn gave way to a church on Wine Street, opened for service on Sunday the 3rd of June, 1832.

55. Headless kern ghost at Chaffpool

    Chaffpool · townland · Sligo · 1871

    A chief ordered a kern beheaded near ash-trees at the garden gate of Chaffpool for delaying the return of a lost child. The kern's headless ghost haunted the spot until a skeleton with a detached skull was found and re-interred in 1871.

    Read the passage

    a house with a moat about it,^ in which he placed the child. Despite all these precautions, the little girl did manage to escape from the " moated grange," and wandered to a boggy place called Cashel Cawley, where she was found by one of the kerns, who took her to his own house for the night, did all lie could for her, and started early next morning for her liome (wrapping her carefully in his sheepskin), and gave her up to her father. The chief demanded why the child had not been brought the moment she had been found. " Sure," said the kern, " I thought it too cold for her, so I made her warm and comfortable." *' You ruffian," retorted the chief, "you lost me my rest last night " ; and he ordered him to be beheaded near the large ash-trees at the gate of the present garden at Chaffpool. The ghost of the kern — with a lantern where his head ought to be, but that member under his arm — was believed to haunt the spot. He has been seen often ; but the last case occui'red in 1871, about which time a fence was being made near the place, and a skeleton was discovered having the skull detached from the remainder of the bones; it was decently re-interred, and the ghost has not since re-appeared.

    " The practice of removing the head from the trunk, in order to bury it in some celebrated localitj^ must have been one of not unusual occurrence amongst the early Irish. Thus we find in the Annals of the Four Masters, that in the barony of Ball}'- brit, in the King's Co, a.d. 1213, was interred the liead of Etech," an ancient Irisli heroine. In Petrie's paper on Tara it is mentioned that the head of Cuchullin was buried on Tara hill. Also, in the Annals of the Four Masters, anno 565, it is recorded that the head of Diarmaid Mac Fergus was buried at Clonmacnoise ; his body where he was killed, in the county Antrim.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 192

56. Hely Hutchinson, Sligo MP, duels Dr. Lucas in Dublin Parliament

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    Hely Hutchinson, who served as one of the members for the borough of Sligo, duelled Dr. Lucas after Lucas muttered 'Rest, rest, perturbed spirit!' during one of Hutchinson's loud parliamentary speeches. The encounter was uneventful, with both parties leaving the field as they entered it.

    Read the passage

    A knowledge of pistol-practice, and everything connected therewith, was necessary for the exigencies of every-day life, and was specially necessary in the Irish Parliament, for " no senators made such vociferous claim for fi-eedora of debate, but they had the greatest disgust for freedom of comment." The best illustration of this is the celebrated duel between Hely Hutchinson — who was for some time one of the members for the borough of Sligo — and another senator. On one occasion Hely Hutchinson was making the House in College Green ring with the echoes of his voice, and most of the members deaf with the thunder of his vociferation ; and when he (Hutchinson) paused a moment to draw breath. Dr. Lucas said quietly, without any distinct intention of being heard by the orator or any other person, " Rest, rest, perturbed spirit! " A challenge ensued; the respective parties met, but the affair was not interesting, for the actors left the field as they entered it.

    In 1782, during the exciting times of the Irish Volunteers, two members of the legal profession (in court) waxed so violent in argument that from words they came to blows. The more powerful of the two clenched the discussion by knocking down his adversary, exclaiming, " I'll make you behave yourself like a gentleman ;" to which the prostrated man, on rising indignantly retorted, " No, sir ; never. I defy you." No casualty occurred from the subsequent meeting.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 158

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town was represented in the Irish Parliament by Hely Hutchinson, and the place has a story worth hearing on that count. Pistol practice was a necessity of everyday life in those times, and especially so in the Irish Parliament, where senators made loud claims for freedom of debate but had the greatest disgust for freedom of comment. The best illustration is the celebrated duel between Hely Hutchinson and another senator, Dr. Lucas. On one occasion Hutchinson was making the House in College Green ring with the echoes of his voice, and most of the members deaf with the thunder of his vociferation. When he paused a moment to draw breath, Dr. Lucas said quietly, without any distinct intention of being heard, "Rest, rest, perturbed spirit!" A challenge ensued. The respective parties met, but the affair was not interesting, for the actors left the field as they entered it. In 1782, during the exciting times of the Irish Volunteers, two members of the legal profession in court waxed so violent in argument that from words they came to blows. The more powerful knocked down his adversary, exclaiming, "I'll make you behave yourself like a gentleman," to which the prostrated man, on rising indignantly, retorted, "No, sir; never. I defy you." No casualty occurred from the subsequent meeting.

57. Lord Shelburne's linen manufactory at Ballymote

    Ballymote · town · Sligo · 1756

    About 1756 Lord Shelburne settled in Ballymote, then a wild uncultivated region, and started a linen manufactory by importing 17 families from the North working 27 looms. The enterprise was mismanaged and lost £5000; his widow later engaged Mr. Wakefield to enlarge it.

    Read the passage

    About the year 1756, Lord Shelburne settled in the town of Ballymote, the surrounding neighbourhood of which was then " a wild uncultivated region, without industry or civility." There were no industries in the town to occupy a rapidly increasing population, so he started a Knen manufactory, importing 17 families from the North of Ireland (working 27 looms) to teach the technique. The enterprise, however, was mismanaged, and Lord Shelburne lost £5000, After his death his widow desiring to carry his plan to maturity, granted generous leases and other advantages to Mr. Wakefield — a then well-known London merchant — for the purpose of enlarging and carrying on the enterprise. On his arrival he found

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 122

58. May Day customs in Sligo town

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1890

    On May 1st, large bunches of blooming gorse or marsh marigold were traditionally hung over every door in Sligo town to please the 'good people' or keep luck in the house. An 1890 observation noted only two houses on a street of thatched dwellings lacked the customary emblem.

    Read the passage

    say it is for the purpose of " pleasing the good people "; others, that it is " to keep luck in the house." For some time during the day no fire is allowed on the hearth ; fire is not allowed to be taken out of the house — for that would be considered giving away the luck — neither would a stranger be given even a light for his pipe. The bunch of gorse is afterwards either buried or burnt. In 1890, a person who walked down a street of thatched houses in the town of Sligo on the 1st May could, only in two instances, note the absence of the customary emblem.

    On the 23rd June, St. John's Eve — commonly termed Bonfire Night — fires are lighted on roads, generally speaking where two or more ways meet ; not long ago, on all the heights, cattle used to be driven through the flames, children were swung over them, and men and boys jumped through them with the children, as it was imagined that by such purification they would be secured from accident or disease during the remainder of the year.^

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 188

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through Sligo. On the first of May in 1890, large bunches of blooming gorse or marsh marigold hung over every door. Some said it was for the purpose of "pleasing the good people," others that it was "to keep luck in the house." For some time during the day, no fire was allowed on the hearth, and fire was not to be taken out of the house, for that would be considered giving away the luck. Neither would a stranger be given even a light for his pipe. The bunch of gorse was afterwards either buried or burnt. That same year, a person walking down a street of thatched houses in the town on the 1st of May could, only in two instances, note the absence of the customary emblem.

59. M'Clusky, the celebrated guard of the Sligo coach

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1857–1862

    M'Clusky, a well-known guard of the Sligo coach immortalised in one of Lever's novels, was presented with a testimonial by his admirers in 1857 shortly before the railway superseded the mail-coach. After the coach's abolition in 1862 he served as guard on the railway train but seemed out of place in the new role.

    Read the passage

    A guard of the Sligo coach — a well-known character in his day — is alluded to in one of Lever's novels. In 1857 his admirers presented him with a testimonial, shortly before — to use his own words — " the new iron steed had snorted the requiem of the old four-in-hand." In 1862, after the abolition of the mail-coach, he was employed as guard on the railway train, but seemed out of place in his new position. Anecdotes related concerning him are innumerable ; the best known is as follows : A Sligo gentleman of a not too-generous disposition frequently omitted to bring any luncheon, and it usually ended by the guard sharing his meal with him. On one occasion this gentleman perceiving where the guard, M'Clusky, had deposited his food, and thinking to play him a trick, abstracted and ate the food. M'Clusky observed the theft, but took no notice until when they were nearing a village a large dog rushed out, barking violently at the coach ; he then proceeded to extract the food from where he had left it, and on perceiving its disappearance, expressed the greatest consternation and alarm, stopped the coach, and ordered the driver to turn back. In answer to an inquiry from the passengers, M'Clusky stated that he had hidden some poisoned meat, in order to throw it to a dog which was constantly annoying the mail by following and barking at the horses, that the meat must have dropped on the road, and that he would be answerable for somebody's untimely decease. The delinquent — who had been rapidly changing colour — here confessed that he had taken and eaten the missing food. " Then," said M'Clusky, solemnly, " you are a dead man ! "

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 105

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town here was the home ground of a famous coach guard named M'Clusky. He was so well known that Lever put him in a novel. In 1857 his admirers presented him with a testimonial, just before, as he put it, the new iron steed had snorted the requiem of the old four-in-hand. When the mail-coach was abolished in 1862, M'Clusky was taken on as guard on the railway train, but he seemed out of place in the new role. The best story told about him concerns a Sligo gentleman of a not too generous disposition who often forgot to bring any luncheon and ended up sharing the guard's meal. One day this gentleman spotted where M'Clusky had deposited his food and, thinking to play a trick, took and ate it. M'Clusky saw the theft but said nothing. As they neared a village, a large dog rushed out barking at the coach. M'Clusky went to where he had left his food and, finding it gone, showed the greatest alarm. He stopped the coach and ordered the driver to turn back. He told the passengers he had hidden poisoned meat to throw to a dog that was always annoying the horses, and that the meat must have fallen on the road. He said he would be answerable for somebody's untimely decease. The gentleman, who had been rapidly changing colour, confessed that he had taken and eaten the missing food. Then said M'Clusky, solemnly, you are a dead man.

60. Moonlighting and threats to clergy in Sligo, December 1847

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1847

    In December 1847 the county was deeply disturbed with nightly moonlighting. Several clergymen were forced from their glebe-houses, one parson was fired at, and Protestant parishioners issued counter-threats against a parish priest, which abruptly ended the agitation in that parish.

    Read the passage

    In December, 1847, the county was much disturbed. Moonlighting was of nightly occurrence. Several clergymen were forced to leave their glebe-houses, and one parson was fired at. In a parish where a notice had been posted threatening the rector with death, his Protestant parishioners gave counternotice that in the event of either their parson or any of hia friends falling by the hands of an assassin, " the life of the parish priest should expiate the crime." The agitation in that parish, after the succeeding Sunday, suddenly collapsed.

    From 1880 to 1884 Tubbercurry and its neighbourhood enjoyed an unenviable notoriety. It was one of the few places in the county where outrages were common, and where law and order were systematically put aside. Absence from the locality did not protect those marked out, for one unfortimate man who had gone to Aughris in Tireragh, for benefit of his health, was followed, and his ears cut off. A sub-inspector was fiured at ; the life of the Clerk of the Union was attempted ; two policeconstables were fired at, as were also two resident landlords. These outrages were carried on with a systematic secrecy which baffled the police ; whilst even dumb brutes belonging to unpopular persons were maltreated and ill-used.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 164

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this town stands in a county that in December 1847 was deep in nightly moonlighting. Several clergymen were forced from their glebe-houses, and one parson was fired at. In one parish a notice was posted threatening the rector with death. His Protestant parishioners issued a counter-notice: if the parson or any of his friends fell to an assassin, in their words, "the life of the parish priest should expiate the crime." After the following Sunday the agitation in that parish collapsed. The wider county stayed disturbed, with moonlighting of nightly occurrence and clergymen driven from their homes, but that one threat of retaliation brought a sudden quiet to that parish alone.