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. 1846 Sligo Harbour Act defines port limits and harbour dues

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1846

   In 1846 the third local Act for Sligo was passed, chiefly to define Harbour-dues on imports and exports and to require that the limits of the Port and Harbour be clearly marked by landmarks. MPs for the county and borough were disqualified as ex-officio Board members.

   Read the passage

   In 1846 (9 Yict. c. 24) was passed the third local Act, amending that of 1803. Its chief object was to define the Harbour-dues to be levied upon articles of import and export, but other alterations in the prior Act were also introduced ; by it the Members of Parliament for the County and Borough, who seldom attended, were disqualified from being ex-officio Members of the Board; and it was enacted, that the limits of the Port and Harbour were to be clearly defined by landmarks. This Bill was introduced by the Harbour Commissioners themselves, under charge of three members of that body ; and it was subsequently alleged that sufficient provision was not made, or sufficient care taken for proper equalization of the numerous Harbour-dues.

   Before the passing of the fourth local Act (1869) Sligo had

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 48

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, it is worth knowing that 1846 brought the third local Act for the town, amending one from 1803. Its chief purpose was to define the harbour dues on imports and exports. The Harbour Commissioners introduced the Bill themselves, under charge of three of their members. The Act also disqualified the Members of Parliament for the County and Borough from being ex-officio members of the Board, since they seldom attended. It required that the limits of the port and harbour be clearly marked by landmarks. Afterward it was alleged that not enough care had been taken for proper equalisation of the many dues.

2. Ardcotten named from Irish 'cutteen' meaning commonage

   Ardcotten · townland · Sligo

   The Irish word 'cutteen,' designating commonages near towns and villages, gave its name to Ardcotten — meaning 'the hill of the commonage' — near the village of Ballysadare, according to Dr. Joyce.

   Read the passage

   Until 1842, tlie only property belonging to the Corporation was about 20 acres of land, called " The Commons," together with a plot of ground, formerly used as a pound for cattle, but now built upon ; and the revenue of these lands, which did not amount to £100 per annum, was applied by the Patron of the borough to the payment of the Provost. Commonages near towns and villages were by no means unusual, and the Irish name, pronounced cutteen, by which they were designated, has (according to Dr. Joyce) bequeathed its name to Ardcotten — the hill of the commonage — near the village of Ballysadare, and in its plural form to Cutteanta, in the parish of Dromard.

   In olden times " The Commons " appear to have been set to a member of the Corporation, generally on a lease of 41 years ; in 1744, when the Messrs. De Butt were pressed for their rent, they pleaded, as a set-off, a sum of £60 which was to have been paid to them, in the year 1719, in three equal instalments, and numerous instances occur in which the land was set to members of the Corporation ; in later times it appears to have been disposed of by public cant; in 1855 the Town Council resolved to procure the outside value for the lands, and The Sliijo C//anipion newspaper of tliat year thus comments on the subject : —

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 48

3. Ballysadare Bay choked with sandbanks

   Ballysadare · townland · Sligo

   Ballysadare Bay is choked with sandbanks and exposed to the north-west swell, with no buoys to mark the channel. With the assistance of a skilful pilot, small vessels may go up to near the mills of Ballysadare at high water.

   Read the passage

   Ballj'sadare Bay is choked with sandbanks and exposed to the north-west swell. There are no buoys to mark the channel, but with the assistance of a skilful pilot, small vessels may go up to near the mills of Ballysadare at high water.

   The entire of this littoral — with the exception of the entrance to the port of Sligo — is unlighted ; in 1876 the Grand Jury represented to the Government — but in vain — that the coast for many miles west from Sligo, all the way to Eagle Island in Erris, was totally unlit, and many casualties had actually occurred from this cause. It was suggested that the point of Kinnasharragh — a low, dangerous shoal near Easky — appeared a site suitable in all respects for the lighting of this part of the coast.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 110

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, Ballysadare Bay is choked with sandbanks and exposed to the north-west swell, with no buoys to mark the channel. With a skilful pilot, small vessels can reach near the mills of Ballysadare at high water. The whole of this coast, except for the entrance to the port of Sligo, is unlighted. In 1876 the Grand Jury represented to the Government, but in vain, that the coast for many miles west from Sligo, all the way to Eagle Island in Erris, was totally unlit, and many casualties had actually occurred from this cause. They suggested that the point of Kinnasharragh, a low, dangerous shoal near Easky, appeared a site suitable in all respects for lighting this part of the coast.

4. Billa townland and the sacred tree tradition

   Balla · town · Mayo

   The townland of Billa in the parish of Ballysadare preserves the name of a sacred tree (bile). A manuscript in the Royal Irish Academy also describes a 'fern tree' in the parish of Kilmacteige.

   Read the passage

   " Honey-tree " is the remarkable designation of an old sycamore in the townland of Coollemoneen, in the parish of Killadoon, and it is so styled on the Ordnance Survey maps. It stands on a mound surrounded by stones, some of which are so disposed as to simulate the form of a rude altar. Like many other old and solitary- growing trees, it has legends and traditions attached to it, some of which are yet current among the old people of the neighbourhood. "Bile" (billa), remarks P. W. Joyce, " signifies a large tree . . . ' JBile ' was generally applied to a large tree, which for any reason was held in veneration by the people ; for instance, one under which their chiefs used to be inaugurated, or periodical games celebrated. Trees of this kind were regarded with intense reverence and affection. One of the greatest triumphs that a tribe could achieve over their enemies was to cut down their inaugui'ation tree, and no outrage was more keenly resented, and when possible visited with sharper retribution. . . . These trees were pretty common in past times ; some of them remain to this day, and are often called Bell trees, or Bellow trees — an echo of the old word, Bile. In most cases, however, they have long since disappeared, but their names remain in many places to attest their former existence." There is a townland of Billa, in the parish of Ballysadare ; and in a MS. in the Library, Royal Irish Academy, one such tree, which is styled " the fern tree," situated in the parish of Kilmacteige, is described in an account of the district.

   This veneration for, or even perhaps ancient worship of trees is singular. Carlyle, in his " Hero Worship," states that amongst the old Norse, life was figured as a tree.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 187

5. Burgess oath of office for the Corporation of Sligo

   Sligo · town · Sligo

   The oath taken by a Burgess of the Corporation of Sligo bound the officeholder to serve the King and the town's inhabitants, administer equal justice to rich and poor, keep all orders of the Common Council, and never disclose any council secret prejudicial to the Corporation. The text provides a detailed glimpse into the civic governance structures of the borough.

   Read the passage

   ' ' You shall swear that you well and truly shall serve our Sovereign Lord the King and his Heirs and lawful successors and the inhabitants of this town and Borough of Sligo as one of the Burgesses of the town and shall minister equal justice to poor and rich after the best of your cunning wit and power. And also shall well and truly observe, perform, fulfil and keep all such good order, rules, and compositions, as are, or shall be made, ordered, or established by the Common Council of this town, for the good government thereof, in all things to you appertaining. Axd you sliall not utter or disclose any council or secret thing, or matter touching the fellowship or corporation of the town whereby any prejudice, loss, hindrance, or slander shall, or may arise, grow, or be to the same Corporation; but you shall in all things belonging to the Fellowship and Corporation of the town, faithfully, honestly and indifferently behave yourself for the most benefit, worship, and honesty of the town, and the inhabitants thereof."

   The following — as far as can be ascertained — is a list of the freemen of the Borough of Sligo: —

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 51

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town whose Corporation once governed through sworn oaths. A Burgess of the Corporation of Sligo pledged to serve the King and the inhabitants of the town, and to minister equal justice to poor and rich. The officeholder swore to observe, perform, and keep all orders, rules, and compositions made by the Common Council for the good government of the town. The oath also forbade disclosing any council secret that might cause prejudice, loss, hindrance, or slander to the Corporation. The Burgess promised to behave faithfully, honestly, and indifferently in all things belonging to the fellowship and corporation, for the most benefit, worship, and honesty of the town and its inhabitants. The words of the source read, you shall minister equal justice to poor and rich after the best of your cunning wit and power. A list of freemen of the Borough follows in the record, but the oath itself gives a detailed glimpse of how civic governance in the borough was structured.

6. Captain James Hamilton's marine tombstone at St. John's

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1766

   A slab over the grave of Captain James Hamilton, who died in 1766, bears a common 18th-century marine inscription similar to one found in the churchyard at Ballysadare. The verse references Boreas's blasts and Neptune's waves and ends with a reference to meeting Christ.

   Read the passage

   It is alleged that, by reason perhaps of cliemieals in the soil, yews will not grow in the chiirch3''ard except in freshlyimported earth, that few, if any, worms burrow in the ground, and that rats do not frequent the place. Like most churchyards in the country, there are few tombs of any antiquity remaining, that of Sir Roger Jones being the oldest. One inscription records the death of a man " who deceased being aged 120 years," and here and there the beholder is startled by sight of the word " executed," in bold lettering ; but it relates, not to the manner of death of the occupant of the tomb, but to the self -advertising of the sculptor. A very common 18th century marine inscription, somewhat similar to that in the churchyard at Ballysadare, may be seen on the slab over the last restiugplace of Captain James Hamilton, who died in 1766 : —

   " Tho' Boreas' blasts and Neptune's waves

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 67

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, the churchyard at St. John's holds the grave of Captain James Hamilton, who died in 1766. His slab carries a common 18th-century marine inscription, similar to one in the churchyard at Ballysadare. The verse begins with the words "Tho' Boreas' blasts and Neptune's waves" and ends with a reference to meeting Christ. The churchyard has its curiosities. Yews will not grow there except in freshly imported earth, and it is said few worms burrow in the ground and rats do not frequent the place. The oldest tomb is that of Sir Roger Jones. One inscription records a man who died aged 120 years, and the word "executed" appears in bold lettering on a stone, though it refers to the sculptor's self-advertising, not the manner of the occupant's death.

7. Cloonagh Bar reef from Ballyconnell Point

   Ballyconnell · townland · Sligo

   A reef called Cloonagh Bar extends from Ballyconnell Point parallel to the shore for about four miles. In stormy weather it presents an appalling spectacle as the sea breaks along the entire line of the shoal.

   Read the passage

   Northward in Donegal Bay lies the Island of Inismurray : it has dangerous outlying rocks ; its eastern end terminating in a stony spit, which projects to a distance of three-quarters of a mile, the sea breaking over it in heavy weather. Between Inismurray and the mainland there is a clear passage, but a reef, called Cloonagh Bar, extends from Ballyconnel Point in a direction parallel to the shore for about four miles ; in stormy weather it presents an appalling spectacle, for the sea breaks along the entire line of the shoal.

   Off the entrance to Milkhaven are several dangerous rocks : within these are the historic rocks of Carricknaspania and Carricknaneane. Dernish Island forms the western side of the entrance to Milkhaven, a narrow creek, with but two feet of water at its entrance ; its narrow and intricate channel has a pool of twelve feet of water inside Dernish Island, where fish-

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 109

8. Collooney village population nearly halved, 1841-1881

   Collooney · townland · Sligo · 1841–1881

   The village of Collooney had about 650 inhabitants in 1841 but fewer than 400 by 1881, reflecting the broader rural depopulation of County Sligo following the Famine years.

   Read the passage

   Villages have decreased in nearly the same proportion ; CoUooney, which in 1841 contained about 650 inhabitants, had in 1881 less than 400. According to the Census of 1881, Ballymote contained 1145 ; TubbercuiTy,§ 1081 ; Bellahy, 274 ; Easky, 374 ; Aclare but 207 souls.

   In regard to general healthiness Sligo bears favourable comparison with other portions of the kingdom. According to computation the town was, for the years 1864 to 1867, one of the healthiest in Ireland, the rates of total deatiis to population being, in 1864, one in 68*7 ; in 1865, one in 63'0 ; in 1866, one in 70'4 ; in 1867, one in 72'3. In the death-rate registered from 1871 to 1880 the county stands second-lowest on the list of the whole of Ireland, with a death-rate of 14-1 per thousand of the population, the premier county, Mayo, having but 13"9, whilst the County Dublin is credited with 262 ; the average death-rate of the whole of Ireland, from 1879 to 1888, being 18-4.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 43

9. Defeat of Macdonogh in 1865 Sligo Borough election

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1865

   In the Sligo Borough election of 15 July 1865, Francis Macdonogh was defeated, having only 158 votes to his opponent's 166. The constituency had shrunk to 312 voters from 360 in 1859, reflecting the volatile electorate of the borough.

   Read the passage

   In the election that took place on the loth July, 1865, Macdonogh was defeated, having only 158 votes to 166 re-

   1 lu 1859, the constituency was 360; in 1865, 312 ; in 1869, 520.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 28

   As the companion tells it

   Sligo town saw a close-run thing in July 1865. Francis Macdonogh was defeated in the borough election, taking 158 votes to his opponent's 166. The constituency had shrunk to 312 voters, down from 360 in 1859.

10. Disfranchisement of Sligo Borough

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1868

    Major Laurence E. Knox was unseated on petition following an election. A Commission of Inquiry was subsequently instituted, resulting in the disfranchisement of the Borough of Sligo.

    Read the passage

    E.t. Hon. John Wynne, Francis M'Donogh, Q.C., ( Vice Wynne, resigned.) Richard Armstrong, S.L. Major Laurence E. Knox. (Unseated on petition. A Commission of Inquiry instituted, and the Borough disfranchised.)

    Hazlewood. Rutland-square, Dublin.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 220

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this town lost its parliamentary representation after the 1868 election. Major Laurence E. Knox was unseated on petition, and a Commission of Inquiry followed. The result was the disfranchisement of the Borough of Sligo.

11. High barley yields in late 18th-century Tireragh

    Tireragh · barony · Sligo · 1750–1799

    During the latter part of the eighteenth century, Tireragh saw great crops of barley, sometimes yielding as much as 20 barrels to the acre. Oats and wheat were also grown in the area.

    Read the passage

    In Tireragh great crops of barley were grown during the latter part of the eighteenth century, the yield being sometimes as much as 20 barrels to the acre. Of oats two barrels of 12 stones were sown, the mean produce being 10 barrels ; of wheat 12 stones were sown, the produce being 6 barrels. The wire- worm was a great enemy to barley, and in 1812 a traveller remarked that comparatively little of that grain was cultivated in Connaught " except on the northern coast of Sligo."

    The introduction of the linen manufacture into the county stimulated everywhere the rearing of crops of flax. A farming cottier, with six or seven acres, would sow six or eight gallons — the quantity of seed required being at the rate of forty gallons per acre — the value, sold on the foot, was, in general, £8 ; and it was calculated that a gallon of seed produced a stone of

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 144

12. Inishmurray Island dangerous rocks and spit

    Inishmurray · townland · Sligo

    Inishmurray Island in Donegal Bay has dangerous outlying rocks, with its eastern end terminating in a stony spit projecting three-quarters of a mile, over which the sea breaks in heavy weather. A clear passage exists between the island and the mainland.

    Read the passage

    Northward in Donegal Bay lies the Island of Inismurray : it has dangerous outlying rocks ; its eastern end terminating in a stony spit, which projects to a distance of three-quarters of a mile, the sea breaking over it in heavy weather. Between Inismurray and the mainland there is a clear passage, but a reef, called Cloonagh Bar, extends from Ballyconnel Point in a direction parallel to the shore for about four miles ; in stormy weather it presents an appalling spectacle, for the sea breaks along the entire line of the shoal.

    Off the entrance to Milkhaven are several dangerous rocks : within these are the historic rocks of Carricknaspania and Carricknaneane. Dernish Island forms the western side of the entrance to Milkhaven, a narrow creek, with but two feet of water at its entrance ; its narrow and intricate channel has a pool of twelve feet of water inside Dernish Island, where fish-

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 109

13. Linen weaving at Ballysadare

    Ballysadare · townland · Sligo

    The linen trade took root in Ballysadare village, where at one period nearly forty looms were in full work. The industry afforded more or less occupation throughout the county before its general decline.

    Read the passage

    About the same period that the Ballymote linen trade was started, similar arrangements, but on a smaller scale, were made by Mr. O'Hara, Mr. Knox, and Mr. Wynne, who built houses, procured looms, and encouraged the weaving trade. The present market-house at Collooney was erected by the Cootes before the sale of their property ; it was originally used as a linen-hall, and at the height of the prosperity of the manufacture about fifty weavers found constant employment in the village. The rise and fall of this industry, however, had the same history here as elsewhere in the county. The linen trade took root in most of the country villages ; at one period there were nearly forty looms in full work in the village of Ballysadare ; it afforded more or less occupation throughout the county, and the description of this industry, given by the Bev. James Neligan in 1815, as carried on by his parishioners, is applicable to the entire district : — " The weavers are scattered throughout the villages, having in general a small holding of land, which they cultivate in the same manner as other tenants, and at their leisure times weave pieces for the country people or for themselves. There are good markets for these linens at Sligo and Ballina, where they are sold green, and many of them bought by bleachers in the neighbourhood, who after bleaching them, send them to Dublin or some foreign market." Thus, weaving and spinning were almost universally practised, the latter occupation being that of the women and children, and while the females were engaged in preparing the flax and spinning the yarn, the men were weaving. Yery little land was given with the houses, as it was thought that weaving

    PORT or SLIGO, TRADE AND MANUFACTURE. 245

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Ballysadare, linen weaving was once a living industry. At its height, nearly 40 looms were in full work in the village. The trade was encouraged here much as in Ballymote, by men like Mr. O'Hara, Mr. Knox, and Mr. Wynne, who built houses and procured looms to get weaving started. It gave occupation across the county before the general decline set in.

14. Lough Gill annual boat race course established (1822)

    near Lough Gill · lake or lakes · Kerry · 1822

    The original Lough Gill boat race course ran twice round the lake, nearly eighteen miles, starting from a buoy between Cottage Island and the Hazlewood shore, around buoys at Castle Point, Bunowna, and Shriff, forming two triangles per round.

    Read the passage

    The course (as originally laid down) appears to have been twice round the lake — nearly eighteen miles — starting from a buoy placed between Cottage Island and the Hazlewood shore, and around buoys at Castle Point, Bunowna, and Shriff, with a straight run back, thus forming two triangles in each round.

    The following gives the original rules : —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 197

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass Lough Gill, this lake was once the setting for a long boat race laid out in 1822. The original course ran twice round, nearly 18 miles, starting from a buoy between Cottage Island and the Hazlewood shore and rounding buoys at Castle Point, Bunowna, and Shriff, forming two triangles in each round.

15. Methodism introduced to Sligo from Drumsna, c.1757

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1757

    Methodism was likely introduced to Sligo around 1757 when someone connected with the Drumsna Methodist Society settled in the town and invited the preacher stationed at Castlebar. The rector of St. John's, Rev. Rubule Ormsby, did not interfere with this pioneer.

    Read the passage

    Of Methodism — the exact date, and the means by which it was introduced into Sligo, are not recorded. It is probable that in 1757 some person connected with the Society in

    L2

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 71

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is where Methodism likely took root around 1757. Someone connected with the Drumsna Methodist Society settled in the town and invited the preacher stationed at Castlebar. The rector of St. John's, Rev. Rubule Ormsby, did not interfere with this pioneer.

16. New bridge over Owenbeg near Billa

    Billa · townland · Sligo · 1877

    A new bridge over the river Owenbeg, near the village of Billa, was erected at a cost of £500 as part of the flood rebuilding efforts.

    Read the passage

    In August, 1877, the bridges of Cabragh and Enniscrone were destroyed by a sudden flood, and rebuilt at a cost of £550 ; the bridge over the Easky river has been rebuilt at an expense of £700, and a new bridge over the river Owenbeg — near the village of Billa — was erected at a cost of £500. There is only one iron bridge at present in the county ; during the relief-works of 1880-1881 it was erected over the river Moy, on the new road from Tubbercurry to Sessue. It is 40 ft. clear span, and is composed of two lattice girders, supporting a floor of iron arched-plates covered with asphalt, and surfaced with gravel. There are about 17 tons of iron in it, and with the abutments the total cost was about £550.

    203

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 101

17. Pollaphuca on Aughris Head

    Aughris Head · promontory · Sligo

    A locality on Aughris Head is called Pollaphuca, a name likely connected with a legend of a pooka or strange hobgoblin.

    Read the passage

    quay were haunted by a " black dog " — a form, perhaps, of the pooka. Under present management, however, the improvement of gaslight has banished them. On Aughris Head is a locality styled Pollaphuca ; and it is probably connected with a legend of one of these strange hobgoblins.

    At Seaview, in Tireragh, there is said to be a phantom-coach which at certain periods is driven along the avenue leading to the residence. The coachman is headless, as are also the four black horses harnessed to the chariot. The question may be naturally asked, how does the coachman see to guide his team, and where does he place the bits to guide his four-in-hand ? His head is doubtless, as is usual with duUaghans, under his arm, but where are the heads of the four horses ?

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 192

18. Sligo Asylum expansion and patient management

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1856–1889

    The Sligo asylum, serving counties Sligo and Leitrim, saw expenditure rise from about £3,000 in 1856-57 for around 120-143 patients to almost £9,000 in 1889 for 439 patients. The original 30-acre farm was expanded, and sleeping arrangements were converted to dormitories to improve order.

    Read the passage

    The expenditure on the Institution has been, of late, increasing considerably ; under the regime of the late Dr. John M'Munn, the first resident medical superintendent (appointed 1852, died 1882), the total disbursement for the years 1856 and 1857 was £3025, and £3109 for maintenance of 120 and 143 patients, respectively ; in the year 1889, it was almost £9000 for 439 patients ; however, the Treasury grant covered one half of this amount, leaving the residue to be defrayed by the tax-payers of the counties of Sligo and Leitrim. The present medical officer in charge is allowed to have an assistant, resident in the house, the visiting and consulting physician being E. C. Mac Dowal, M.D. During the year 1889 the average daily number of patients in the building was 439.

    Lying-in Hospital and House of IIefuge. — In the commencement of the century, i. e. in 1804, £30 was voted by the Grand Jury for the training of a proper nurse, whilst during the year 1819 " fifty poor married lying-in women were attended by the accoucheur." Notices regarding the institution occur from time to time in the columns of the local newspaper.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 79

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Sligo now. The asylum here served both Sligo and Leitrim, and it grew fast over the second half of the century. Under Dr. John M'Munn, the first resident medical superintendent, appointed in 1852, the total spent in 1856 and 1857 was around 3,000 pounds, maintaining 120 and then 143 patients. By 1889 the cost had risen to almost 9,000 pounds for 439 patients. The Treasury grant covered half that amount, leaving the rest to be paid by the taxpayers of the two counties. The medical officer in charge at that time had a resident assistant, and the visiting and consulting physician was E. C. MacDowal. The average daily number of patients in the building in 1889 was 439.

19. Sligo Borough boundary extension sought under 1854 Improvement Act

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1855

    On 5 March 1855, Sligo Town Council resolved to extend the borough boundaries for the Town's Improvement Act to the existing parliamentary boundaries. The Lord Lieutenant refused consent due to the increased area sought solely for extra taxation, and subsequent attempts to revive the scheme failed.

    Read the passage

    From the commencement of their existence the Town Coun(;il had been dissatisfied with their limited power in regard to taxation and otherwise, and efforts were from time to time made to expand their authority. On the 5th March, 1855, the Council resolved that "tlie boundaries of this Borough for the purpose of the ' Town's Improvement Act, 1854,' be extended to the existing Parliamentary boundaries, " and preliminary steps were taken to have the Act brought into force. In June application was made to the Lord Lieutenant for his consent, which after some deliberation was refused on account of the increased area sought to be included — solely for the purpose of extra taxation ; and several attempts that were made to resuscitate the scheme failed, A few of the Town Councillors resolved not to let drop the subject of extending the powers of the Corporation. The West Ward was contested by their nominees and seats were secured on the Town Council, "A bill for the Improvement of the Borough of Sligo " was drafted by Messrs, Kernagliau and Saunders, by instructions from some members of the Corporation in their private capacity, and it was suddenly presented to a meeting of the Town Council ; very animated debates ensued, and at a meeting held 13th November, 1867, it was finally decided to proceed with the Bill, after some changes had been made in the draft. The Corporation seal was affixed to it in December, but it was not till May of the following year that Messrs, Kernaghan and Saunders were formally appointed solicitors for the passing of the Bill. As this proposed legislation would remodel and otherwise change the constitution of the Town and Harbour Commissioners, comparatively few of that body were in favour of it.

    On hearing, before a Committee of the House of Commons in 1867, the preamble was by tliem declared not proved ; they judged it then to be — what it really was — a mere legal speculation. In the following year, 1868, it was again introduced and

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 52

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you're in a town that spent over a decade trying to redraw its own borders. The Town Council had long been unhappy with their limited powers over taxation, and on the 5th of March 1855 they resolved that the borough boundaries for the Town's Improvement Act of 1854 be extended to the existing parliamentary boundaries. In June they applied to the Lord Lieutenant for his consent. He refused, on the grounds that the increased area was being sought solely for the purpose of extra taxation. Several attempts to revive the scheme failed, but a few councillors refused to let it drop. Their nominees contested the West Ward and secured seats on the council. A bill for the improvement of the borough was drafted by Messrs Kernaghan and Saunders, acting on instructions from some corporation members in their private capacity, and was suddenly presented to a meeting of the Town Council. Animated debates followed. On the 13th of November 1867 it was finally decided to proceed with the bill after some changes to the draft. The corporation seal was affixed in December, though Kernaghan and Saunders were not formally appointed as solicitors for passing the bill until May of the following year. The bill would have remodelled the constitution of the Town and Harbour Commissioners, and comparatively few of that body favoured it. When it came before a Committee of the House of Commons in 1867, the preamble was declared not proved. They judged it to be, in their words, a mere legal speculation. It was again introduced in 1868.

20. Sligo turf barrel standard and market regulations

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1754–1800

    The Sligo Corporation established standard weights and dimensions for turf barrels used in the town market, with oak-hooped barrels placed for public use. The regulations proved effective for nearly a century, with updated measures introduced in 1800.

    Read the passage

    These regulations seem, for nearly one hundred years, to have liad the wished-for effect ; the turf barrels were particularly in requisition, for shortly after the issuing of the above order two " turffe Barr'^^ more, Hooped w^^ oake Hoopes and Iron Handles " were placed in the market.

    Dimensions of a Sligo Turf- barrel.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 118

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Sligo now. Back in the 1750s the corporation here set standard dimensions for turf barrels sold in the town market, and placed two large barrels hooped with oak and fitted with iron handles for public use. Those regulations held for nearly one hundred years before new measures came in around 1800.

21. Sligo waterworks financial success by 1890

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1890

    Within five years the Sligo waterworks realized a net profit of nearly £1,500. In May 1890 the accounts showed a clear profit of £546, and the actual supply of water was abundant enough to meet the needs of a town of 50,000 inhabitants.

    Read the passage

    is laid a cast-iron cleansing pipe. The straining tower is of masonry, having near the bottom three outlets, in front of which are placed wire-gauze strainers in oak frames ; through these the water is admitted to the interior of the tower ; they can be moved at pleasure, and are counterbalanced by weights that are suspended in the interior of the tower, and are connected with the strainers by chains passing over pulleys hung in the upper part of the walls. From this tower to the sluice-pit — which is a masonry tower built in the centre of the bank of the reservoir— is placed the sluice on the line of pipes that lead to the town, and which terminates in Stephen-street, opposite New Bridge-street. From this line in which are placed two scouring cocks, the water is distributed through the town in pipes that vary in diameter from eight to three inches, and are provided with street wells, and fire-plugs or hydrants. Sluice- cocks also are placed in the pipes, so that in case repairs should be requisite, the water may be shut off from the various streets or districts ; and provision is also made for supplying the town directly from the Doonally Keservoir, in the event of its being for any purpose necessary to empty the Service Reservoir. Within the last five years the waterworks have realized a net profit of nearly £1,500. In May, 1890, the accounts showed a clear profit of £546, so that financially, it is hoped, the enterprise may prove to be eventually a decided success. The actual supply of water is abundant, and would be sufficient to meet the requirements of a town of 50,000 inhabitants.*

    * The Engineer, 1881, pp. 160-2.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 96

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are near the town's waterworks, which by 1890 had become a financial success. Within five years the scheme realized a net profit of nearly £1,500, and in May 1890 alone the accounts showed a clear profit of £546. The system drew water through a straining tower of masonry, with wire-gauze strainers in oak frames, into pipes that ran to the town and terminated in Stephen Street, opposite New Bridge Street. From there the water was distributed through pipes ranging from eight to three inches in diameter, fitted with street wells, fire-plugs, and sluice-cocks so that any street could be shut off for repairs. Provision was also made to supply the town directly from the Doonally Reservoir if the Service Reservoir ever needed emptying. The actual supply was abundant, sufficient to meet the requirements of a town of 50,000 inhabitants. It was hoped the enterprise would prove eventually a decided success.

22. Growth of outdoor relief in Sligo Union post-1865

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1865–1888

    The Outdoor Relief Extension Act of 1847 was little used in the Sligo Union until about 1865, when one relieving officer handled around 20 persons weekly at £3 per week. Expenditure grew steadily thereafter, reaching 582 recipients by 1883.

    Read the passage

    The Out-door Relief Extension Act passed in 1847' was little used in the unions till about the year 1865, during which

    1 In the year 1858, the following amusing application was sent in to the Board of Guardians by a pauper inmate of the Workhouse : — "Te muses from Parnassus' hill,

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this town was part of a union where outdoor relief barely operated after the 1847 Act. Around 1865 one relieving officer dealt with roughly 20 people weekly at £3 per week. From there the numbers climbed steadily, reaching 582 recipients by 1883.

23. Hell-fire clubs at Ardnaglass and near Sligo

    Ardnaglass · townland · Sligo

    Two Hell-fire clubs operated in Sligo during the late eighteenth century. One was based at Ardnaglass in Tireragh, and the other occupied a large two-storied house on the old road from Sligo to Ballydrihed, part of which was still standing at the time of writing.

    Read the passage

    There were " Hell-fire " clubs in Sligo during the last century : one had its habitat at Ardnaglass, in Tireragh, the other in a large two-storied house on the old road leading from Sligo to Ballydrihed ; part of the edifice is yet standing.

    At the close of the last century there were public lotteries, and advertisements frequently appeared such as " Lottery oflSce, licensed pursuant to Act of Parliament," all the supposed advantages being set forth in large type, for the purpose of inducing the proverbial fool and his money to part company. Gambling then, as at present, was very general in the town ; it is even now no uncommon occurrence on a Sunday morning when returning from divine worship to see groups of men and boys engaged in pitch and toss, or some game presenting equal facilities for the change in ownership of probably a large portion of the gambler's hard-earned wages for the preceding week.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 206

24. Raised beaches near Carney on Drumcliff Bay

    Carney · town · Sligo

    Geological observation of raised beach deposits along the coast of Drumcliff Bay near Carney, containing oyster, clam, and periwinkle shells now elevated four to seven feet above high-water mark, indicating recent land elevation.

    Read the passage

    In conclusion, a few observations niay be made with regard to raised-beaches — those very recent examples of geological activity. Portions of the coast of Drumcliff Bay, near Carney, which contain shells of oysters, clams, periwinkles, &c., are now from four to six or seven feet above high- water mark. In Sligo Bay, at Ballincar, and near "Gibraltar," there are also silty deposits with cockles and other sliells embedded, all now well beyond tlie reach of the tide. A larger area of similar character on the north shore of Ballysadare Bay, and forming a sort of peninsula seldom if ever overflowed by the sea, seems to indicate a sliglit elevation of the land in comparatively modern times.'

    Irish names of localities are generally descriptive, either of tlie peculiarities of the configuration of the ground in the immediate vicinity, or of some prominent object or objects which there attracted attention. In the " Field-Name Books " of the Ordnance Survey (whicli are now in the Mountjoy Barracks, Phoenix Park), the Irish name, English orthography, and translation of every townland name in Ireland is given — so far as O'Donovan was able to ascertain at the time, i. e. some half-century ago. In Appendix I. a transcript of the MS. is given — so for as relates to the County Sligo — without alteration or annotation, on the authority of O'Donovan. Some of the translations are now, by the best authorities, considered erroneous, but the vast majority are correct.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 135

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Carney, near the shore of Drumcliff Bay, there are raised beaches containing old shells — oysters, clams, periwinkles — that now sit four to seven feet above high water mark. The same thing turns up in Sligo Bay at Ballincar and near Gibraltar, where silty deposits hold cockles and other shells, all well beyond the reach of the tide. A larger area of similar character lies on the north shore of Ballysadare Bay, forming a sort of peninsula seldom if ever overflowed by the sea. Together these deposits seem to indicate a slight elevation of the land in comparatively modern times. So the ground you are travelling through was once closer to the water, and has risen since.

25. 1855 Town Council resolves to value Corporation lands at outside value

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1855

    In 1855 the Sligo Town Council resolved to procure the full outside value for Corporation lands, prompting the Sligo Champion newspaper to defend the decision against accusations of illiberality toward existing tenants.

    Read the passage

    "The ground belonging to the Corporation is to bo fairly valued, and set accordingly. For this an outcry has been made against the Town Council for their want of liberality. We think they propose to do nothing more than what is just, to value the lands, and to give the existing tenants the option of retaining tlieir holdings or of giving them

    H 2

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 48

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, in 1855 the Town Council resolved that Corporation ground should be fairly valued and set accordingly. An outcry went up accusing them of illiberality toward existing tenants. The Sligo Champion defended them, arguing they proposed nothing more than justice: to value the lands and give the tenants the option of retaining their holdings or giving them up.

26. Battlefield bridge on the old Ballymote–Boyle road

    Battlefield · townland · Sligo

    The bridge at Battlefield on the old road from Ballymote to Boyle may date from the same early period as Bellarush and Drumcliff bridges, based on comparable construction.

    Read the passage

    The oldest bridges now standing in the County are those of Bellarush, near the north end of Lough Arrow, and Drumcliff. No date can be assigned for the building of either, but from their narrow arches and style of masonry, they must have been long in existence. Possibly the bridge at Battlefield, on the old road leading from Ballymote to Boyle, was built about the same time, as well as Ardcree bridge, near Annaghmore.

    The present modern bridge at Ballysadare is much higher up the stream than its predecessor ; for the remains of an old bridge — perhaps that erected in 1360 or in 1586 — was discovered when workmen were sinking the foundations for the eel-house, which is situated just over the last fall made by the river before mingling its waters with the tide.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 100

27. Benbulben and Truskmore mountain profiles

    near Truskmore · mountain or mountain range · Sligo

    Benbulben reaches 1,728 feet and Truskmore 2,113 feet, both characterised by abrupt rock faces toward the Atlantic and widespread plateaus on their summits reaching landward. They form part of Botanical District No. 9 embracing East Mayo, Sligo, and Leitrim.

    Read the passage

    The Botanical District No. 9, of Professor C. C. Babington, for Ireland, embraces East Mayo, Sligo, and Leitrim, remarkable for their range of mountains, varying from 1700 to upwards of 2000 feet above sea level. Thus, Benbulben reaches the height of 1728 feet, and Truskmore 2113 feet ; their distinguishing character is the abrupt faces of rock towards the Atlantic, and the widespread plateaus on their summits reaching landward.

    The border line dividing East from West Mayo is placed along Lough Mask and the course of the River Ayle, thence passing through Castlebar and descending through Lough CuUin and the Piver Moy to the sea at Ballina.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 152

28. County Sligo Infirmary in 1889

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1889

    The County Sligo Infirmary held a leading position among such institutions, treating 401 internal patients in 1889. An additional 280 applicants came from beyond a ten-mile radius.

    Read the passage

    The County Sligo Infirmary holds a leading position amongst such institutions. Four hundred and one patients were, in 1889, treated as intern, whilst no fewer than two hundred and eighty applicants resided beyond a ten mile radius.

    The Journals of the Irish House of Commons relate that on the 15th of March, 1766, a committee was appointed to bring in " heads of a Bill for erecting and establishing public County Infirmaries in the Kingdom." This Act (5 George III., c. 20), is, in its] main provisions, in force at present. Additions have

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo town, the County Sligo Infirmary once held a leading position among such institutions in Ireland. In 1889 it treated 401 patients as intern, while 280 applicants came from beyond a ten-mile radius. The roots of county infirmaries like this one go back to March 1766, when a committee of the Irish House of Commons was appointed to draft a bill for erecting and establishing public county infirmaries in the kingdom. The resulting Act, under George the Third, remained in its main provisions in force at the time.

29. Declining oyster beds along the Sligo coast

    near Drumcliff · parish · Sligo

    The oyster beds on the Sligo coast were described as very poor and unremunerative. The principal beds were located at Sligo, Drumcliff, Lissadell, and Ballysadare.

    Read the passage

    The oyster beds on the Sligo coast are now very poor, and do not appear to repay the money and care bestowed upon tliem. The principal are Sligo, Drumcliff, Lissadell, and Ballysadare. There are a considerable number of mussels shipped for consumption in England.

    By a return received, it would appear that the total amount issued by the Irish Reproductive Loan Fund to poor fishermen in the fourteen years to 31st December, 1888, was but £4962, of which almost the entire is repaid.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drumcliff parish, the oyster beds along this coast were said to be very poor and did not repay the money and care spent on them. The principal beds lay at Sligo, Drumcliff, Lissadell, and Ballysadare. Mussels were shipped for consumption in England. A return showed that the Irish Reproductive Loan Fund issued just under 4962 pounds to poor fishermen in the 14 years to 31st December 1888, and almost the entire sum was repaid.

30. Doonally and Rathbraghan Rivers Catchment

    Doonally · townland · Sligo

    The Doonally river and Kilsellagh stream, draining a combined 1,910 acres, flow past Doonally House and Rathbraghan before discharging into the sea a mile north of Sligo town. This mountainous district served as the catchment area for the town's water supply.

    Read the passage

    which he had superintended the carrying out of the plans." The water supply for the town is taken from a catchment area in the neighbouring- mountainous district, having a mean elevation of 950 feet above the sea and situate between the counties of Leitrim and Sligo. The drainage from this district is carried off by two streams or rivers, the Doonally river, the catchment basin of which is 1315 acres, and the Kilsellagh stream, with an area of 628 acres ; the latter falls into the Doonally river, and both together flowing by Doonally House and Rathbraghan disci large into the sea about a mile north of the town. The total drainage ground, therefore, from which the flow can be utilized is 1910 acres, and taking the average available rainfall in the district as thirty inches, the daily flow off the ground would be 3,637,500 gallons, of which only about 400,000 are daily required for town use, thus leaving the balance to be stored in the reservoir or allowed to run down the stream. On the west side of the reservoir there is a third stream — the Carrowlustia — having a drainage catchment of 350 acres ; as most of this area, however, is of a peaty character, the water from it is not allowed to enter the reservoir, but is diverted and flows round the south side of the reservoir, falling into the Doonally river just below the embankment.

    The principal works in connexion with the water supply are the (1) iinpouuding or storage reservoir on the Doonally and Kilsellagli streams, with its flood water-course, embankment, outlet- tower, waste-weir, &c. ; (2j the piping to the relief tanks and service-reservoir; (3) the service-reservoir and the works of distribution through the town.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 95

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town draws its water from a mountain catchment between counties Leitrim and Sligo, at a mean elevation of 950 feet. Two streams feed the system: the Doonally river, draining 1,315 acres, and the Kilsellagh stream, draining 628 acres. The Kilsellagh falls into the Doonally, and together they flow past Doonally House and Rathbraghan before discharging into the sea about a mile north of the town. The total drainage ground comes to 1,910 acres. With an average rainfall of 30 inches, the daily flow off the ground would be 3,637,500 gallons, of which only about 400,000 are needed each day for the town. The rest is stored in the reservoir or allowed to run down the stream. A third stream, the Carrowlustia, drains 350 acres on the west side of the reservoir, but most of that ground is peaty, so its water is diverted around the south side and falls into the Doonally river below the embankment rather than entering the reservoir. The works themselves include the storage reservoir with its embankment, outlet tower and waste-weir, the piping to the service-reservoir, and the distribution system through the town.

31. Dromore Bay anchorage near Aughris Head

    Aughris Head · promontory · Sligo

    Dromore Bay lies between Lenadoon and Aughris Head, with a sandy bottom on its eastern side affording good anchorage when the wind is off shore. Outside is Pollnadivna Ledge, a dangerous rocky shoal, while Aughris Head itself provides shelter for fishing craft during off-shore winds.

    Read the passage

    Sligo Bay comprehends the deep bight between Lenadoon on the west and Ballyconnel Point on the east : at tte head of this bight are the three inlets of Ballysadare, Sligo, and Drumcliff. The south, or Tireragh shore is low and rocky, rising, however, in the interior to an elevation, in some places, of nearly 2000 feet. From Lenadoon eastward to Cooanmore Point is a distance of four miles, and the little inlet lying between it and Aughris Head is called Dromore Bay ; here, on the eastern side, there is a sandy bottom, affording good anchorage when the wind is off the shore, and outside, is Pollnadivna Ledge, a dangerous rocky shoal. Aughris Head forms a conspicuous landmark ; on its east side there is a small bay which affords shelter to fishing craft during off-shore winds.

    Ballj'sadare Bay is choked with sandbanks and exposed to the north-west swell. There are no buoys to mark the channel, but with the assistance of a skilful pilot, small vessels may go up to near the mills of Ballysadare at high water.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 110

32. Earthquake shock at Templehouse and Annaghmore (1880)

    near Templehouse · population centre · Sligo · 1880

    On the 28th of November 1880, about 5:15 p.m., a shock of earthquake accompanied by a distinct rumbling noise lasting several seconds was felt and heard at Templehouse, Annaghmore, and other places in the district. The vibration was compared to that experienced near the 1831 bog deluge.

    Read the passage

    ' The vibration of the ground in the immediate vicinity of this deluge seems to have somewhat resembled that felt on the 28th November, 1880, when about 5.15, p. m. a shock of earthquake, accompanied by a distinct rumbling noise, lasting several seconds, was distinctly felt and heard at Templehouse, Annaghmore, and other places in the district.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 138

33. Kilmacteige military barracks abandoned by 1736

    Kilmacteige · townland · Sligo

    Small detachments of troops were stationed at Collooney, Ballymote, and Kilmacteige as outposts of the Sligo military presence. The Kilmacteige barracks were given up as early as 1736.

    Read the passage

    According to a map of the year 1766 there were four military barracks in the town of Sligo : " The old stone fort " or "Foot Barracks and yard"; the present barracks, then styled the"Strand Barracks" for cavalry and capable of accommodating " 7 officers and 96 non-commissioned officers and privates, with stabling for 60 horses, and an excellent hospital annexed" ; the *' Middle Barracks " on the right side of Holborn- street, and the " Horse Barracks " which appear to have occupied the site of the present brewery near the upper bridge. Small detachments of troops were also stationed at Collooney, Ballymote, and Kilmacteige. The latter barracks were given up as early as 1736.

    At a critical epoch, when America was lost to the Crown of England, and the Irish coasts lay open to the descent of a foreign foe, the Volunteers, a body of 100,000 men, self-clothed, self-disciplined, and without pay discharged the duties of the army. Unfortunately they afterwards turned their attention to politics, upon which rock they made shipwreck. At first — from the octogenarian to the schoolboy — all sprang to arms, several cadet corps being formed from the various schools in the town and county.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 4

34. Lady Morgan's 1807 description of The Glen on Knocknarea

    near Knocknarea · mountain or mountain range · Sligo · 1807

    A miniature cleft on the side of Knocknarea is known as 'The Glen.' Lady Morgan, in 1807, described it as a romantic glen with rocks that assume the appearance of spacious ruins, overhanging shrubs, and torrents forming natural basins.

    Read the passage

    In great contrast to this scenery, which is on an almost alpine scale, is the miniature cleft in the side of Knocknarea, commonly known as " The Glen."

    Lady Morgan, in her Patriotic Shctches (1807), thus describes it:—

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 137

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead, Knocknarea rises near Sligo. On its side is a miniature cleft known as The Glen, which Lady Morgan described in 1807 as a romantic spot with rocks that look like spacious ruins, overhanging shrubs, and torrents forming natural basins.

35. Lough Gill regatta (1831)

    near Lough Gill · lake or lakes · Kerry · 1831

    In August 1831, an exciting two-hour race took place on Lough Gill in a fresh breeze, with Mr. Wynne's Lady Sarah winning the first cup and Mr. Martin's Anne winning the second cup.

    Read the passage

    In August, 1831, there was a most exciting race in a fresh breeze ; the contest only lasted two hours :

    For the First Cup.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 198

    As the companion tells it

    Up along Lough Gill here, back in August 1831, there was a most exciting race in a fresh breeze, the whole contest lasting just two hours. Mr. Wynne's boat, the Lady Sarah, took the first cup, and Mr. Martin's Anne won the second.

36. Massive granite boulders south of Lough Talt

    near Lough Talt · lake or lakes · Sligo

    Huge granite boulders originating from the Slieve Gamph Hills are found on the high ground south of Lough Talt. Some of these glacial erratics weigh over 100 tons and have a couple of feet of peat and heather growing on top.

    Read the passage

    evidently derived from it. The direction of the ice-movement, all along the tract ranging from Sligo Bay to Lough Conn, has been determined by numerous observations ( made by the Rev. Maxwell Close and others, both from the striations of rocks and the transport of erratics) to have been towards the north-west. This is well shown by glaciated rounded bosses, called " roches moutonnees," in the deer-park at Markree and in Union Wood; also north of Collooney station, where "crag and tail " are very apparent; the " tail " being ground down by the powerful ice-sheet advancing from the south-east, while the " crag " or bluff, facing in the opposite direction, suffered little from attrition. Travelled blocks of granite or schist from tlie Ox range are scattered over the Carboniferous plain to the north ; of these the stone circles and cromlechs of Carrowmore are formed, and similar boulders are found near the summit of Knocknarea (limestone, 1078 feet). The converse of this is seen south of the eiglith milestone on the road from Sligo to Ballina, where a block of rubbly limestone, weighing about twenty-three tons, rests on a ridge of gneiss some 400 feet above sea-level ; such a boulder must have travelled several miles to reach its present position. Near the old churchyard of Kilmorgan, and scattered more or less thickly over an area of half a square mile are an immense number of boulders of the same kind of rubbly limestone (with bands of " chert ") of which the Hill of Keash, two miles to the south-east, is chiefly composed. They look as if they had been thrown at random in a battle of giants. Ice is the only agency to account for their transport. It did its work, however, not in the form of a glacier, but through means of icebergs that grounded and dropped their burdens in shallow water hereabouts. Huge granite boulders from the Slieve Gamph Hills are found on the high ground south of Lough Talt, some of which weigh over 100 tons each, and have, perhaps, a couple of feet of peat and heather on the top. In the low ground about here are rarely found any but small erratics, similar to the underlying Carboniferous strata. Striae, and " roches moutonnees " also agree in indicating a north-west ice-flow.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 134

37. Post-Revolution social breakdown and predatory warfare in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1689–1692

    After three years of constant strife surrounding the Revolution of 1688, the peasantry of Sligo had grown accustomed to obtaining necessities by plunder and neglected agriculture, with some turning to open robbery as Rapparees. Protestant yeomen, schooled in military life, were similarly unwilling to resume civilian occupations and relied on hoped-for Parliamentary aid.

    Read the passage

    The incessant strife had so accustomed the people to an unsettled state of life that they were unwillii)g to resume steady pursuits of any kind. Accustomed to obtain all the necessaries of life by plunder and violence, the majority of the

    B2

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    Around Sligo here, the years after 1688 left their mark. Three years of constant strife had so accustomed people to an unsettled life that they were unwilling to resume steady pursuits. The majority had grown used to obtaining every necessity by plunder and violence, and some turned to open robbery as Rapparees.

38. Public institutions sited in Calry parish, Sligo

    Calry · parish · Sligo

    A portion of the town of Sligo falls within Calry parish, separated from St. John's parish by the river. Key public institutions including the County Infirmary, Fever Hospital, Military Barracks, Workhouse, and District Lunatic Asylum are all situated in Calry.

    Read the passage

    A portion of the town of Sligo is included within Calry, the river separating it from St. John's parish. Some of the public institutions, the three Banks, the County Infirmary, the Fever Hospital, the Military Barracks, the Workhouse, and the District Lunatic Asylum, are situated in Calry. The incumbent is also chaplain of the troops, of the workhouse, and of the asylum. The parish extends along the northern shore of Lough Gill and joins the parishes of Drumahaire, Lurganboy, Drumcliff, and Rosses Point. There are two Sunday-schools — one held on Sunday morning at Calry school-house, with one hundred and eighty children in attendance, the other, in the afternoon, at Ballinorley, with thirty-three children. There are three daily schools — all being under the National Board : (1) The Model School, (2) Calry National School ; (3) Ballinorley National School. The two latter are under the patronage and management of the incumbent.

    Knocknarea Church, near Strandhill. — Despite the restricted area left to the Union of St. John's by detaching Calry, it was found necessary still further to curtail it, and the parish of Killaspugbrone was formed into a separate district. The idea of erecting a church in the vicinity of Strandhill appears to have been first mooted in 1835, but nothing was

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 68

39. Salmon fishing regulation on the Sligo river

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1847–1863

    Before 1847 salmon could be caught year-round in the Sligo river. The season was then restricted to January 1–August 20, later extended to February 14 with weekend closures and a £3 licence per net.

    Read the passage

    Prior to 1847 salmon might be caught at any period of the year in the Sligo river ; but the time was then restricted from the 1st January to the 20th August. In 1863 the close season was extended to the 14th February, and no fishing was permitted on Saturday or Sunday ; for each net employed, a licence which cost £3 had to be taken out.

    An inquiry was held in 1871 by the Fishery Inspectors, who granted certificates for fixed nets, and also changed the time of opening from 14th February to 16th January. Another inquiry took place a few years later, when the time was extended from the 16th to the 1st January, as, from scientific investigation, it was establisbed that the fish in the Sligo river run as early as

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town, which the road takes you through, sits on a river where salmon fishing was long part of life. Before 1847 you could catch salmon here at any time of year. Then the season was cut back to run from the 1st of January to the 20th of August. By 1863 the close season was pushed further, to the 14th of February, and no fishing was allowed on Saturdays or Sundays. Each net in use required a licence costing £3. Fishery inspectors held an inquiry in 1871 and granted certificates for fixed nets, moving the opening back to the 16th of January. A later inquiry reset it to the 1st of January, because scientific investigation had established that the fish in the Sligo river run as early as that.

40. Scarlatina outbreak in Knocknarea district, 1886

    near Knocknarea · mountain or mountain range · Sligo · 1886

    A severe outbreak of scarlatina occurred in the Knocknarea district in the autumn of 1886.

    Read the passage

    In May, 1877, there was a slight outbreak of typhoid fever in the town ; and in the autumn there was a failure of the potato crop, as also again in 1878, in which year during an epidemic of small-pox many cases of a malignant type were admitted to hospital. In the autumn of 1886 there was a severe outbreak of scarlatina in the Knocknarea district.

    In the autumn of 1879 the potato crop was again almost an entire failure owing to the inclemency of the season and continuous rains. The flood was so great as to cause the river in the town to become heavily swollen between the Upper and Lower Weirs; over the former a seething mass of rolling waters poured, submerging many of the houses on each side, and at the Lower Weir the rush of such a volume of water presented a wonderful spectacle. All through the county incalculable mischief was wrought, valleys were transformed into lakes, the turf supply was seriously injured as well as the potatoes, and thus three successive bad seasons inflicted great suffering on all, but more especially on the small farmers.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass near Knocknarea, that mountain above Sligo, there is a hard piece of history from this district. In the autumn of 1886, a severe outbreak of scarlatina struck the Knocknarea district. The years around it were no easier for the people here. The potato crop had failed in 1877 and again in 1878, when an epidemic of small-pox sent many cases of a malignant type into hospital. In 1879 the potatoes failed almost entirely after continuous rains, and floods swelled the river in Sligo town, submerging houses between the Upper and Lower Weirs. Three successive bad seasons brought great suffering, especially on the small farmers.

41. Sligo Agricultural Society founded 1840

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1840

    In 1840 the proprietors of large estates in County Sligo started a county Agricultural Society aimed at improving tillage-farming among the tenantry, as many parts of the county remained in a backward condition.

    Read the passage

    In 1840, a county " Agricultural Society " was started by the proprietors of large estates, for the improvement of tillagefarming amongst the tenantry. Until a late period many parts of the county remained in a backward condition. Inglis, in 1834, thus describes that portion of the Curlew range which lies between Ballinafad and Boyle : — " After leaving Lough Arrow the road ascended considerably, and passed through a wild and very poor country . . . Many of the cabins were not to be distinguished from the mud-heaps aroimd ; they were fully as black and no bigger, and built of the same material, scarcely a patch of cultivation being visible around any of them." Ou

    u 2

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 145

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is the town where, in 1840, the proprietors of large estates started a county Agricultural Society. They aimed to improve tillage farming among the tenantry, because many parts of the county remained in a backward condition. Inglis had described the poverty here in 1834, writing of the Curlew range between Ballinafad and Boyle: "Many of the cabins were not to be distinguished from the mud-heaps around; they were fully as black and no bigger, and built of the same material."

42. Sligo Corporation commemorates Father Mathew centenary, 1890

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1890

    In 1890, the Mayor and Corporation of Sligo joined with other Irish municipal bodies to commemorate the centenary of Father Mathew, who was credited with doing more for the social regeneration of the country than any other man.

    Read the passage

    Father Mathew did more for the social regeneration of the country than any other man ; several attempts have been made to resuscitate the movement, but with only partial success. In 1890, the Mayor and Corporation of Sligo joined, with other Irish Municipal bodies, in the arrangements for commemorating the centenary of this remarkable man.

    The County Sligo with an estimated population of about 98,338 souls, has a total of 310 publichouses ; this is exceeded by the Borough, which, with a total of a little over 10,000, has 85, a number yearly on the increase. The cause is obvious, for the power of granting or refusing a licence lies entirely in the

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 169

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Sligo, a town the road passes through. In 1890 the Mayor and Corporation here joined with other Irish municipal bodies to commemorate the centenary of Father Theobald Mathew. The book calls him a remarkable man who did more for the social regeneration of the country than any other. Several attempts had been made to revive his movement, but with only partial success. The centenary was a way of honouring that legacy.

43. Sligo Corporation gains waterworks and gasworks powers under 1869 Act

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1869

    Under the 1869 Act, the Sligo Corporation obtained power to construct waterworks and supply water, as well as to acquire the gasworks by purchase and supply gas. The municipal borough boundaries were extended to the parliamentary borough limits.

    Read the passage

    Some of the more important changes brought about by this Act may be briefly noticed. The body constituted under the Town and Harbour Act of 1803, and known as the Town and Harbour Commissioners, was dissolved ; the powers of the Town Commissioners were vested in the Corporation, and a new body of Harbour Commissioners, having power to deal with the Port and Harbour, was incorporated. The Corporation obtained power to construct waterworks and supply water ; also to acquire by purchase the gasworks and to supply gas.

    The Borough, as defined for municipal purposes, had been less extensive than as defined for Parliamentary purposes; but this Act extended the boundaries of the municipal to the limits of the Parliamentary Borough, and the jurisdiction of Justices of the Peace for the Borough was also extended to the new limits.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the town you see took much of its modern shape under an Act of 1869. That year the Corporation gained power to construct waterworks and supply water, and to acquire the gasworks by purchase and supply gas. The old Town and Harbour Commissioners, the body set up in 1803, were dissolved. Their town powers passed to the Corporation, while a new body of Harbour Commissioners took charge of the port. The Act also extended the municipal borough boundaries out to the wider parliamentary borough limits, bringing more of Sligo under the Corporation's jurisdiction.

44. Sligo Militia stationed at Cashel

    Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1808

    In 1808, the Sligo Militia was stationed at Cashel under the command of Colonel Irwin.

    Read the passage

    campaign in the South of Ireland, it was marched to Dimdalk ; whilst from the 12th July to 28th August, 1807, it was at *' Clonoony," and the following year it was stationed at Cashel under the command of Colonel Irwin. In 1810 it was at Limerick — it then mustered 609 rank and file — a large complement, if the number be taken into consideration that were constantly volunteering for active service.

    Volunteering — so called — was very probably stimulated by bounties and by money paid to the men by officers who were desirous of entering the line, as an officer bringing a certain number of men with him was granted a Commission.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 15

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Cashel, the Sligo Militia was stationed in 1808 under the command of Colonel Irwin. The regiment had spent the previous summer at Clonoony, from July to August of 1807, before moving here. By 1810 it would be at Limerick, mustering 609 rank and file, a large number given that men were constantly volunteering for active service. That volunteering was likely encouraged by bounties and by money paid to the men by officers who wanted to enter the line, since an officer who brought a certain number of men with him was granted a commission.

45. Submerged forest stumps in Lough Gill and Lough Arrow

    near Lough Arrow · lake or lakes · Sligo

    Below the lowest water level in both Lough Gill and Lough Arrow, stumps of large trees resembling a submerged forest are visible. A. B. Wynne explained that boggy margins eroded by wave action left tree stools subsiding to the bottom in their natural growth position.

    Read the passage

    Beneath the lowest level to which the water ever falls, in Lough Gill as well as in Though Arrow, the stumps of

    T

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 136

46. Subscription for Safety Pier at Mullaghmore

    Mullaghmore · town · Sligo

    A public notice invited subscriptions for a safety pier at Mullaghmore, with the Commissioners of Fishery contributing half the estimated £1,200 cost. The pier was intended to support the local fishing industry during a period of distress.

    Read the passage

    " The gentlemen who are interested in the erection oi a Safety Pier at Mullaghmoee are requested to signify by letter to M!r. James Walker, Sligo, what sum each person is disposed to subsci'ibe towards that work, which it is intended to proceed on forthwith. The Commissioners of Fisheiy only contribute one-half of the expense, which has been estimated at £1200 by Mr. Mmmo, Engineer to the Commissioners . ' '

    It would appear as if the Mansion House Committee for relief of the distress in Ireland gave a grant to aid in the erection of the pier at Raughly.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Mullaghmore in Sligo. A notice once went out asking gentlemen to write to Mr. James Walker in Sligo with the sums they would subscribe toward a safety pier here. The Commissioners of Fishery would cover half the cost, estimated at 1,200 pounds by their engineer, and work was intended to begin forthwith. This was during a period of distress in Ireland, when the Mansion House Committee for relief was also giving grants for pier works in the area.

47. The Greenlands public promenade at Rosses Point

    Rosses Point · town · Sligo

    A large open space adjoining Rosses Point, known as the Greenlands, was open to the public and formed a delightful promenade for visitors. It complemented the fishing and boating attractions of the area.

    Read the passage

    whilst, now, some half-dozen fairly good hotels, containing considerable accommodation, have been erected to meet the demand created by tourists and lodgers ; for the steamer and the cars which, in the summer, ply between Sligo and its suburb have of late considerably increased the influx of visitors during that season. Nature has done a good deal for the place ; and it only requires capital, judiciously laid out, to make the Point a formidable rival to any western watering-place. A large adjoining space, known as " The Greenlands," is open to the public, and forms a delightful promenade. Another great attraction is the amusement which can be had in the way of fishing and boating : row-boats and sailing-craft for hire are plentiful. At the upper end of Oyster Island the channel, which from this is marked out by perches and a sea-wall, is abruptly turned to the southward by the " Blennick," a dangerous and formerly rocky shoal projecting from the shore, and uncovered at low springs. It is the most serious obstacle to the navigation of the river, as it is not only in the direct course which the channel ought to pursue, but, also, it diverts the incoming tide from the north to the south side. The removal of the " Blennick " was long objected to by some persons who considered that it sheltered "The Pool," by breaking the ground-swell coming in from the ocean ; yet its entire removal is of the greatest importance, in order that a straight run may be given to the river, and the incoming tide ; the swell and wind would be sufficiently broken by Coney and Oyster Islands to render " The Pool " a safe anchorage. In 1877 a medium course was pursued, which has been attended with serious disadvantage. A great portion of the Blennick was lowered and the boulders removed. The scour over it is consequently greater, and " The Pool" has contracted in size; the depth has also seriously diminished. The first step for the improvement of the Harbour should be the entire removal of this obstacle, and the partial blocking of Shru-na-muile {the t/ionsand streams), i.e. the channel lying between Oyster and Coney Islands. The additional volume of water thus confined to one course would have the effect of sweeping away the tail of Bungar Spit, and would in

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 113

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Rosses Point in Sligo, a large open space known as the Greenlands lies adjoining the settlement and was open to the public, forming what the source calls a delightful promenade. By the time this was written, a half-dozen fairly good hotels had been erected to meet the demand from tourists and lodgers, and steamers and cars plying between Sligo and its suburb had increased the summer influx of visitors. The writer thought nature had done a good deal for the place and that it only required capital, judiciously laid out, to make the Point a formidable rival to any western watering-place. Fishing and boating were another great attraction, with row-boats and sailing-craft for hire plentiful. Out in the channel at the upper end of Oyster Island, a dangerous rocky shoal called the Blennick projected from the shore and was uncovered at low springs. It was the most serious obstacle to navigation of the river, diverting the incoming tide from north to south. Some people long objected to its removal because they believed it sheltered the Pool by breaking the ground-swell from the ocean. In 1877 a medium course was pursued: a great portion of the Blennick was lowered and the boulders removed. The result was that the scour over it became greater, the Pool contracted in size, and the depth seriously diminished. The writer argued the entire removal of the obstacle was needed, along with the partial blocking of the channel between Oyster and Coney Islands, so that the additional volume of water confined to one course would sweep away the tail of Bungar Spit.

48. Timber sales at Union Wood

    Union Wood · wood · Sligo

    Mr. Cooper sold timber at Union Wood, matching the price of 50s. per ton for Irish firs set by Mr. Wynne. Small timber for hurdles and roofing was sold at bulk prices.

    Read the passage

    In 1802 the principal plantings in the county were at Markree, Annaghmore, Hazlewood, and Templehouse; owners of other places had done something in the same line, but on a minor scale. Premiums for good plantations were given by the Dublin Society. Mr. Wynne obtained a prize for one in 1787, and Mr. O'Hara for one in 1798, both having succeeded well. It will thus be seen that timber was scarce. Mr. Wynne then sold "Irish firs" at 50.s. the ton (the price in 1886 was 12s.), and small timber, for common use, from one to two or three shillings. Mr. Cooper sold timber at Union Wood at the same price, and small timber for hurdles and roofing at bulk prices.

    Parts of the country were entirely bare of trees. In the year 1815 there were very few to be seen in the parish of Kilmactiege, although Mr. Jones, of Banada, was enabled to boast of an inheritance which no gentleman within twenty miles of him could exhibit, namely, as many grown trees as sufficed for a rookery !

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 141

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at Union Wood in Sligo, Mr. Cooper sold timber in a time when trees were scarce across the county. He matched the price set by Mr. Wynne, 50 shillings per ton for Irish firs. Small timber for hurdles and roofing went at bulk prices. This was a landscape where premiums for good plantations were given by the Dublin Society, and Mr. Wynne won a prize for one in 1787, Mr. O'Hara for one in 1798. By 1802 the principal plantings in the county were at Markree, Annaghmore, Hazlewood, and Templehouse, with other owners doing something on a minor scale. Parts of the country were entirely bare of trees. In 1815 there were very few to be seen in the parish of Kilmactiege, though Mr. Jones of Banada could boast of as many grown trees as sufficed for a rookery, something no gentleman within 20 miles of him could exhibit.

49. Ulster Bank branch opens in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1861–1863

    The Ulster Bank opened a branch in Sligo on 7th December 1861. The handsome building was erected in 1862-3 at a cost of somewhat over £5000. A branch was also established in Ballymote.

    Read the passage

    The Ulster Bank opened a branch in Sligo, 7th December, 1861, under the management of Mr. James Daniel Mitchell, who was succeeded in September, 1863, by Mr. Robert M'Cullagh, and he, in tm-n, was replaced in 1875 by Mr. George Heron, who died April, 1889, since which date the Bank has been under the management of Mr. John C. Quin. The present handsome building was erected in the years 1862-3, at a cost of somewhat over £5000. There is also a branch in Ballymote in charge of Mr. Tew.

    The handsome banking edifices here described as situate in the town of Sligo, are all in the same street, so that the conundrum propounded nearly fifty years ago in the pages of The Cryptic, with regard to Stephen-street, is still applicable to the locality, viz. that it resembles a canal because it has a bank on both sides !

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 90

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the Ulster Bank opened a branch here on 7th December 1861, under the management of James Daniel Mitchell. The handsome building was erected in 1862 and 1863, at a cost of somewhat over £5000. Mitchell was succeeded in September 1863 by Robert M'Cullagh. There is also a branch in Ballymote. The banking houses in the town all stand in the same street, which prompted an old riddle that it resembles a canal because it has a bank on both sides.

50. Union of St. John's parishes formed and dissolved

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1681

    The Union of St. John's, comprising the parishes of St. John's, Calry, Killaspugbrone, and Killmacowen, was created around 1681 and later broken up. Calry was detached first, and Killaspugbrone was formed into the parish of Knocknarea.

    Read the passage

    The old parish church had to provide accommodation for the parishioners of St. John's, and those of Calry, Killaspugbrone, and Killmacowen — the Union of these parishes was created about the year 1681, and afterwards broken up again. First Calry was detached, then Killaspugbrone was formed into the parish of Knocknarea.

    Calry Church (fig. 26) was completed in the year 1824 at a cost of £3000. On March 1st, 1817, the vestry of the Union of St. John's received a letter from the Bishop of Elphin, recommending the erection of a chapel of ease for the Union, owing to the increase of the Protestant population. This idea, after some debate, was ultimately adopted. The Board of First Fruits gave a free grant of £900 towards the expense of building the church and purchasing a site for it, and a glebe-house. The stone of which the church is built was quarried on the ground ; and this fact, to some extent, may explain the small cost of the erection of this edifice as compared with that of the alterations made in St. John's. Calry Church is a plain Grothic building, with a tower and spire; it was consecrated in June, 1824.^

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 67

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo town, you're in the area where four parishes were once joined together. Around 1681, the parishes of St. John's, Calry, Killaspugbrone, and Killmacowen were united into a single union, with the old parish church of St. John's serving all their parishioners. That union did not last. Calry was detached first, and Killaspugbrone was later formed into the separate parish of Knocknarea. In March 1817, the vestry of the Union of St. John's received a letter from the Bishop of Elphin recommending a chapel of ease be built, owing to the increase of the Protestant population. After some debate the idea was adopted. The Board of First Fruits gave a free grant of £900 towards building the church and purchasing a site and a glebe-house. Calry Church was completed in 1824 at a cost of £3000, built from stone quarried on the ground, which helps explain the modest cost. It was a plain Gothic building with a tower and spire, and was consecrated in June 1824.

51. Cholera burials recorded by St. John's vestry, Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1832

    During the cholera outbreak, the Vestry of St. John's in Sligo paid nearly £25 for coffin boards to a single contractor. Burial records show 79 persons buried between August 11 and September 7, with a peak of 12 burials on August 16.

    Read the passage

    paid by the Vestry of St. John's for "Coffin Boards" to one contractor alone amounted to nearly £25.

    Date.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town, in 1832. Cholera struck hard here. The Vestry of St. John's paid nearly £25 for coffin boards to one contractor alone. Burial records show 79 persons buried between August 11 and September 7, with a peak of 12 burials on August 16.

52. Sligo Corporation Challenge Cup won by cutter Nymph (1876)

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1876

    A Corporation Challenge Cup valued at £25 was finally won in 1876 by the cutter Nymph, the property of R. B. Pettigrew, under conditions requiring three successive wins.

    Read the passage

    There is also " The Raughley Regatta Cup," given in 1885. All these cups are (1891) in the possession of W. R. Fenton ; the two latter are his absolute property, having been won three times in succession (see fig. 60). There was also a " Corporation Challenge Cup " (value £25), subject to similar conditions ; it was, however, finally won in 1876 by the cutter " Nymph," the property of R. B. Pettigrew.

    " The Sligo Yacht Club " comprises about ten boats ; it has a commodore, vice-commodore, and secretary; the burgee is red, with white anchor and black letter S.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 198

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town had a busy sailing scene in the 1800s. The Corporation Challenge Cup, worth 25 pounds, could only be won outright by taking it three years running. The cutter Nymph, owned by R. B. Pettigrew, managed that and claimed it for good in 1876.

53. Sligo Yacht Club

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    The Sligo Yacht Club comprised about ten boats with a commodore, vice-commodore, and secretary, flying a red burgee with white anchor and black letter S.

    Read the passage

    " The Sligo Yacht Club " comprises about ten boats ; it has a commodore, vice-commodore, and secretary; the burgee is red, with white anchor and black letter S.

    Many years ago there was in Sligo a rowing-club, which, however, collapsed ; in 1879 another was started under the fairest auspices ; it existed, however, but a short time. Perhaps

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 198

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the Sligo Yacht Club had about ten boats, run by a commodore, vice-commodore, and secretary. Their flag was red, with a white anchor and a black letter S. A rowing club had existed here years before but collapsed. Another was started in 1879, though it lasted only a short time.

54. The Black Lion Inn, Pound Street, Sligo

    Pound Street · street · Clare · 1750–1892

    The Black Lion was one of the oldest hostelries in Sligo town, located in Pound Street, with a surviving but decaying signboard. Subscription balls, bowls, and cock-fighting were held there, with the last public main fought in the backyard. Major Hillas slept there the night before a fatal duel, having dreamed of his own funeral.

    Read the passage

    In Sligo, the inns were probably neither better nor worse than the usual average of provincial towns. They, like most places of business, were distinguished by huge signboards, which competed with each other in gaudiness of colouring. In 1750 " Barrington's Hotel " was in existence ; it stood on or about the site of the present *' Lough Gill Brewery." "The Black Lion " was in Pound-street ; the signboard is still in existence (see fig. 46), but fast mouldering in the damp and wet; the jet black of the lord of the forest is now rusty brown, his gold collar has almost vanished ; in a few mouths the last of one of the oldest hostelries in the town will be but a memory. Here it was that most of the subscription balls were given, bowls and cockfighting were great attractions, and the last " main " advertised and fought in public took place in the backyard. In this inn Major Hillas slept the night before the duel in which he fell, and it is yet recounted how in the morning he declared that he was a doomed man, for he dreamed that he had seeu a large funeral passing the inn, and he recognized the gentry of the county, and. his own relations in mourning following the hearse. Close to this inn was situated the " Spinning Wheel," in Highstreet ; also the " York Hotel," the scene of many a race and regatta ball ; the " King's Arms " and " Rosses Hotel," in old

    z

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 170

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Sligo now. Back in 1750, one of the town's hostelries was Barrington's Hotel, standing on or about the site of the present Lough Gill Brewery. The inns of Sligo at that time were probably neither better nor worse than the usual average of provincial towns, distinguished by huge signboards that competed with each other in gaudiness of colouring. Barrington's was one of several in the town, alongside the Black Lion in Pound-street, the Spinning Wheel in High-street, and the York Hotel, where race and regatta balls were held. The Black Lion was where most of the subscription balls were given, with bowls and cockfighting as great attractions. The last main of cockfighting advertised and fought in public took place in its backyard. Major Hillas slept there the night before the duel in which he fell, having dreamed he saw a large funeral passing the inn, with the gentry of the county and his own relations in mourning following the hearse.

55. Assize Courts built on old courthouse and gaol site in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1878–1879

    The Assize Courts in Sligo were erected in 1878–9 at a cost of about £17,000 on the site of the old Courthouse and gaol, portions of which were incorporated into the new building. The architect was Mr. R. Carroll, F.R.I.B.A., and the style was freely treated Gothic with a front extending about 150 feet along Albert Street.

    Read the passage

    The Assize Courts (fig. 28) were erected in 1878-9 at a cost of about £17,000 on the site of the old Courthouse and gaol, portions of which were utilized in the new building, to the value of about £3000. Mr. R. Carroll, F.R.I.B. A., was the architect. The principal entrance from Albert-street is by a large open arcaded porch leading by a short vestibule to the public hall, which forms the principal means of communication with the courts and the several public offices on the ground floor ; the Crown Solicitor's offices are to the left of the entrance, with rooms beyond for prisoners in waiting ; to the right are the rooms for jurors in waiting, and a barrister's consulting room. Adjoining this latter is the court-keeper's house, with accommodation for the barristers, and having direct access by a private corridor to the two courts. The Crown and Record Courts are behind the central hall, with entrances for the public direct from it ; they are divided by a wide corridor which leads to tlie two judges' rooms beyond, and also gives private access to the courts for barristers, solicitors, and others having business there. Attached to each court are two petty- jury rooms.

    The Record Court is similar in arrangement to the Crown Court, except as regards the accommodation required in the latter for conducting criminal cases. Both the courts are lighted by windows placed high up in the walls, and they are heated by hot- water pipes.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 75

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the Assize Courts stand on the site of the old courthouse and gaol, built in 1878 and 1879 at a cost of about £17,000. The architect was Mr R Carroll, who worked in a freely treated Gothic style, with the front extending about 150 feet along Albert Street. Portions of the older buildings were kept and reused, to the value of about £3000. The main entrance from Albert Street was through a large open arcaded porch leading to a public hall, which connected the courts and the public offices on the ground floor. The Crown Solicitor's offices sat to the left, with rooms beyond for prisoners waiting, while to the right were rooms for jurors and a barrister's consulting room. Behind the central hall were the Crown and Record Courts, divided by a wide corridor leading to the judges' rooms. The courts were lighted by high windows and heated by hot water pipes.

56. Ballymote joined to Sligo Presbyterian charge, 1760

    Ballymote · town · Sligo · 1760

    In 1760 Ballymote was joined to the Sligo Presbyterian congregation. Rev. H. Nesbitt, ordained in 1756 by the Presbytery of Letterkenny, served until his death in 1778, when Rev. Joseph King succeeded him.

    Read the passage

    The first Presbyterian minister of whom there is anything very definite known, was the Rev. Samuel Henry, who came from the Presbytery of Edinburgh in October, 1694, and in May, 1695, was ordained to the joint cliarge of " Sligo and Moywater," i.e. Ballina. In July, 1698, " Moy water " was separated from Sligo, which then became a distinct congregation under his charge. He resigned in 1728. The next minister of whom there exists any record was the Rev. L. Asli (son of Capt. Ash, one of the defenders of Derry), who had received his college education in Edinburgh. The Presbytery of Letterkenny, which in 1717 was put in charge of the district, ordained him to the pastoral charge of the Sligo congregation in 1732. He died in 1742, and was succeeded by the Rev. H. Nesbitt, ordained by the Presbytery of Letterkenny, May 3, 1756. In 1760 Ballymote was joined to Sligo. The Rev. H. Nesbitt died in 1778 ; his successor was the Rev. Joseph King, ordained by the Presbytery of Clogher, August 4, 1784 ; he resigned the charge, and was succeeded the same year by the Rev. Booth Caldwell, who died October 24th, 1810. The Rev. Jacob Scott was ordained to the joint charge of Sligo and Ballymote, March 19th, 1811.

    In 1823 the Sligo congregation became a separate charge, their first minister being the Rev. James Heron, ordained March, 1824. Mr. Heron becoming infirm, the Rev. Moffatt Jackson was appointed as his assistant. Mr. Heron died at Rosses Point, July 28, 1860, and was succeeded by Mr. Jackson, who had been educated at the old Academical Institution, Belfast. He was one of the first batch of students who received the degree of M.A. in connexion with the Uueen's University. The energy displayed by the young minister was rewarded by the gradual growth of the congregation, alike in number and influence. It shortly began to show signs of increased vitality, and the history of the church

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 69

57. County Sligo house numbers and Famine decline

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1821–1881

    A footnote records the number of inhabited houses in County Sligo at each census from 1821 to 1881, showing a sharp fall from 31,443 in 1841 to 22,142 in 1851, reflecting the devastation of the Famine period and continued decline thereafter.

    Read the passage

    ^The inhabited houses in the County of Sligo were:— 27,059 in 1821 ; 29,583 in 1831 ; 31,443 in 1841 ; 22,142 in 1851 ; 22,394 in 1861 ; 20,979 in 1871 ; 19,940 in 1881.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 146

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Sligo, the census records tell a stark story. County Sligo had 31,443 inhabited houses in 1841. By 1851, after the Famine, that fell to 22,142. The decline continued: 22,394 in 1861, 20,979 in 1871, and 19,940 in 1881. The county lost more than 11,000 homes in forty years.

58. Cutteenta in Dromard parish named from plural of cutteen

    Cutteanta · townland · Sligo

    The plural form of the Irish word 'cutteen,' meaning commonages, gave its name to Cutteanta in the parish of Dromard, County Sligo, reflecting the historical presence of common land near settlements.

    Read the passage

    Until 1842, tlie only property belonging to the Corporation was about 20 acres of land, called " The Commons," together with a plot of ground, formerly used as a pound for cattle, but now built upon ; and the revenue of these lands, which did not amount to £100 per annum, was applied by the Patron of the borough to the payment of the Provost. Commonages near towns and villages were by no means unusual, and the Irish name, pronounced cutteen, by which they were designated, has (according to Dr. Joyce) bequeathed its name to Ardcotten — the hill of the commonage — near the village of Ballysadare, and in its plural form to Cutteanta, in the parish of Dromard.

    In olden times " The Commons " appear to have been set to a member of the Corporation, generally on a lease of 41 years ; in 1744, when the Messrs. De Butt were pressed for their rent, they pleaded, as a set-off, a sum of £60 which was to have been paid to them, in the year 1719, in three equal instalments, and numerous instances occur in which the land was set to members of the Corporation ; in later times it appears to have been disposed of by public cant; in 1855 the Town Council resolved to procure the outside value for the lands, and The Sliijo C//anipion newspaper of tliat year thus comments on the subject : —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 48

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Cutteanta, the name itself tells you about the land. It comes from the Irish word "cutteen," meaning commonages, in its plural form. According to Dr. Joyce, common land near towns and villages was not unusual in Ireland, and that word for it left its mark on place names here. In the parish of Dromard, the plural gave us the name Cutteenta. The same root named Ardcotten, the hill of the commonage, near Ballysadare. Commons were shared grazing ground, and in Sligo the Corporation held about 20 acres called The Commons until 1842, with revenue under £100 a year applied to paying the Provost. In older times these commons were leased to Corporation members, often for 41 years. By 1855 the Town Council was seeking the outside value for the lands.

59. First Irish Pied Flycatcher at Moyview, 1875

    Moyview · street · Meath · 1875

    The first recorded capture of a Pied Flycatcher in Ireland was taken at Moyview on 18 April 1875, an event noted in R. Warren's catalogue of County Sligo birds. The species was described as excessively rare.

    Read the passage

    Pied Flycatcher {Muscicajja atricapilla). Excessively rare, and the first recorded capture in Ireland was one taken at Moyview, on the 18th of April, 1875.

    Dipper, or Water Blackbird ( Cinchis aquaticus). Common and resident wherever there are suitable rocky streams.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 263

60. Fossil beds at Gibraltar near Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    Beds of limestone at Gibraltar, two miles west of Sligo, contain fossil corals known as Zaphrentis, which are locally referred to as 'rams' horns'.

    Read the passage

    The Carboniferous system is largely represented in Sligo by Upper, Middle (ealp),and Lower Limestone, and Lower Carboniferous Sandstone. Over an anticliual of this latter subdivision, the road from Dromore West to Sligo passes for a mile and a-lialf, about the average width of the formation which extends from the sea to the Ox range, a distance of four miles. The same sandstone also occurs west of Aelare, with a north-easterly strike for some miles along the base of the metamorphic ridge. Associated with the Middle Limestone is found a series of reddish yellow, brown, and white sandstones, grits, &c., known as " calp " sandstones, that spread their nearly horizontal beds over the whole of the northern part of the Cliffoney district, between the foot of the mountain and the sea, and re-appear in the Mullaghmore promontorj^, and the island of Inismurray. Beds of calp limestone are found unusually fossiliferous in this district, as at the " Serpent " rock, which derives its rather fanciful name from the masses of large curved cylindrical corals, well exposed by weathering. A mile east of this the beds are cut by a four-foot dyke of basalt. The rocks on the shore, west of Streedagh House, abound in specimens of fossil corals, as Zaphrentis cylindrica, 18 to 2-1 inches in length, and two or three inches in diameter, which project from the surface of the beds, that are themselves often largely formed of such cluster corals as Lithostrotion. There are also large-sized brachiopods, as Productus and Spinfer. Similar beds at " Gibraltar " (two miles west of Sligo), contain Zap/treiifis, locally styled " rams' horns ; " and it is frequently seen on both sides of Ballysadare Bay. The Lower Carboniferous Limestone is, in some places, represented by a brown or gray crystalline magnesian limestone (dolomite), as at Eosses Point; to the north of Ballintogher, by light and dark gray compact limestone, having a metallic ring when struck. At Ballysadare it affords an excellent building stone (dark gray and subcrj^stalline), capable of being used for tombstones, &c. &c. The Upper Limestone occupies a large aggregate extent of the county ; Lough Gill is almost entirely surrounded by it ; so is Lough Arrow, and the intermediate Barony of Tirerrill is largely

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 132

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, a couple of miles west lies a spot known as Gibraltar, where beds of calp limestone hold fossils of curved cylindrical corals. The people around here call them rams' horns. They are the remains of an ancient coral, Zaphrentis, that once grew in warm seas over the limestone that underlies much of this country. Similar fossil beds appear on the shore west of Streedagh House, where the corals project straight from the rock surface, some 18 to 24 inches long and 2 or 3 inches across. The beds themselves are often largely formed of cluster corals such as Lithostrotion, and large brachiopods turn up there too. The same kind of fossil coral is frequently seen on both sides of Ballysadare Bay as well. So the stones under these roads and fields are not dead rock at all, but the packed remains of creatures that lived and died when this land lay under the sea.