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 it as the scan has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too. The passages are read off photographs of the page by machine, so a word here and there comes out wrong; they are kept as the reading produced them, so you can check any of them against the scan.

1. 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.

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   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.

2. 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.

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   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

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, two Hell-fire clubs operated in Sligo during the late eighteenth century. One had its home close to Ardnaglass, in Tireragh. The other met in a large two-storied house on the old road leading from Sligo to Ballydrihed. Part of that building was still standing when the record was written. The same source describes gambling as widespread in Sligo at the close of the century. Public lotteries were held under Act of Parliament, with advertisements in large type, aimed at what the book calls "the proverbial fool and his money to part company." Gambling was general in the town. Even on a Sunday morning, after divine worship, groups of men and boys could be seen playing pitch and toss, staking what the record calls a large portion of the gambler's hard-earned wages for the preceding week.

3. 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.

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   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

   Along the coast of Drumcliff Bay, near the town of Carney, there are raised beaches — deposits that speak of very recent geological activity. Portions of the coast here contain shells of oysters, clams, and periwinkles. These deposits now sit four to six or seven feet above high-water mark. What was once seabed has been lifted beyond the reach of the tide. Similar evidence appears elsewhere around Sligo. In Sligo Bay, at Ballincar, and near Gibraltar, there are silty deposits with cockles and other shells embedded in them, all now 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. Taken together, these raised beaches seem to indicate a slight elevation of the land in comparatively modern times. The record notes that Irish names of localities are generally descriptive, either of peculiarities in the configuration of the ground or of some prominent object that attracted attention. The Field-Name Books of the Ordnance Survey, held in Mountjoy Barracks in Phoenix Park, give the Irish name, English orthography, and translation of every townland name in Ireland, so far as O'Donovan was able to ascertain at the time, some half-century before the record was written. A transcript of the manuscript for County Sligo appears in Appendix I, without alteration or annotation, on the authority of O'Donovan. Some translations are now considered erroneous by the best authorities, but the vast majority are correct.

4. 1777 Sligo-to-Boyle road route via Ballysadare

   Ballysadare · townland · Sligo · 1777

   An 1777 itinerary shows the road from Sligo to Boyle following a high level past Oakfield and joining the present line at Ballysadare village. This route, still in use as a by-road, roughly followed the direction of the modern highway.

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   In an itinerary made in the year 1777 the road from Sligo to Boyle is shown as following a high level, passing near Oakfield, and debouching on the present line at the village of Ballysadare, from whence it took very much the same direction as the present highway. It is still in use as a by-road.

   Possibly what is known as the lower road from Sligo to Balliua, along the sea-shore in the barony of Tireragh, occupies

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 98

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, a road from 1777 once came through. An itinerary made that year shows the road from Sligo to Boyle following a high level, passing near Oakfield, and joining the present line at Ballysadare village, from which it took much the same direction as the present highway. It is still in use as a by-road.

5. 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.

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   "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.

6. 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.

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   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

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Battlefield, there is a bridge on the old road from Ballymote to Boyle. No date can be assigned to it, but it may belong to the same early period as the oldest bridges still standing in County Sligo. Those are Bellarush, near the north end of Lough Arrow, and Drumcliff. Neither of those can be dated precisely, but their narrow arches and style of masonry show they must have been long in existence. Ardcree bridge, near Annaghmore, may also date from that same time. All of these bridges share a construction that points to a distant period, though the record offers no firm date for any of them.

7. 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.

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   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

   As the companion tells it

   Truskmore stands among the mountain ranges of Sligo, part of what Professor Babington marked out as Botanical District 9, embracing East Mayo, Sligo, and Leitrim. These ranges rise from 1700 to upwards of 2000 feet above the sea. This one reaches 2113 feet, and Benbulben 1728 feet. Their distinguishing character is the abrupt faces of rock toward the Atlantic, and the widespread plateaus on their summits reaching landward. The border dividing East from West Mayo runs along Lough Mask and the River Ayle, then through Castlebar, descending through Lough Cullin and the River Moy to the sea at Ballina.

8. 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.

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   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.

9. 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.

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   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.

10. 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.

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    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

    Somewhere around here, the water that feeds Sligo town begins its journey. The catchment area sits in the mountainous district between Leitrim and Sligo, at a mean elevation of 950 feet above the sea. Two streams drain this ground. The Doonally river has a catchment basin of 1315 acres, and the Kilsellagh stream has an area of 628 acres. The Kilsellagh falls into the Doonally river, 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 from which the flow can be used is 1910 acres. Taking the average available rainfall in the district as 30 inches, the daily flow off the ground would be 3,637,500 gallons. Of that, only about 400,000 are daily required for town use, 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, with a drainage catchment of 350 acres. Most of that area is of a peaty character, so the water from it is not allowed to enter the reservoir. It is diverted and flows round the south side of the reservoir, falling into the Doonally river just below the embankment. The principal works connected with the water supply are the storage reservoir on the Doonally and Kilsellagh streams, with its flood water-course, embankment, outlet tower, and waste-weir; the piping to the relief tanks and service-reservoir; and the service-reservoir and the works of distribution through the town.

11. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Aughris Head lies Dromore Bay, a small inlet between Lenadoon and the headland itself. The eastern side of the bay has a sandy bottom, and that gives good anchorage when the wind is off the shore. But outside the bay sits Pollnadivna Ledge, a dangerous rocky shoal, and any vessel making for that anchorage would do well to know it is there. Aughris Head forms a conspicuous landmark for sailors along this coast. On its east side there is a small bay that affords shelter to fishing craft during off-shore winds. The shore here is the south, or Tireragh shore, low and rocky, though the interior rises in some places to nearly 2000 feet. Dromore Bay sits at the western edge of the larger Sligo Bay, which comprehends the deep bight between Lenadoon on the west and Ballyconnel Point on the east. At the head of that bight lie three inlets: Ballysadare, Sligo, and Drumcliff.

12. 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.

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    ' 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

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Templehouse, it is worth knowing that on the 28th of November 1880, about 5:15 p.m., a shock of earthquake was felt here. It came with a distinct rumbling noise that lasted several seconds, and was heard and felt at Templehouse, Annaghmore, and other places in the district. The vibration was likened to that experienced near the 1831 bog deluge.

13. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here there was once a military barracks, one of several small outposts keeping troops in the county. Sligo town itself had four barracks by 1766, according to a map of that year. There was the old stone fort, the foot barracks and yard. There was the Strand Barracks for cavalry, housing 7 officers and 96 non-commissioned officers and privates, with stabling for 60 horses and a hospital annexed. There was the Middle Barracks on the right side of Holborn Street. And there was the Horse Barracks near the upper bridge, where the brewery later stood. Beyond the town, small detachments of troops were stationed at Collooney, Ballymote, and here at Kilmacteige. The barracks at Kilmacteige did not last. It was given up as early as 1736, abandoned before the map was even drawn. Later, when America was lost to the Crown of England and the Irish coasts lay open to a foreign foe, the Volunteers stepped in, 100,000 men, self-clothed, self-disciplined, and without pay, discharging the duties of the army. From the octogenarian to the schoolboy, all sprang to arms, cadet corps forming from schools across the town and county. They turned to politics, upon which rock they made shipwreck.

14. 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.

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    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.

15. 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.

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    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.

16. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    The road runs near Lough Talt, a lake in Sligo where the landscape carries signs of a great ice sheet that once moved across this country from south-east to north-west. The direction was worked out by the Reverend Maxwell Close and others, reading the striations cut into rock and the stones the ice carried. Across the tract from Sligo Bay to Lough Conn the evidence is the same. Glaciated rounded bosses called roches moutonnees appear in the deer-park at Markree and in Union Wood. North of Collooney station, crag and tail are very apparent: the ice ground down the tail advancing from the south-east, while the bluff facing the other direction suffered little. Blocks of granite or schist from the Ox range were scattered over the Carboniferous plain to the north, and the stone circles and cromlechs of Carrowmore were built from them. Similar boulders sit near the summit of Knocknarea, at 1078 feet. South of Lough Talt, on the high ground, huge granite boulders from the Slieve Gamph Hills rest where the ice left them. Some weigh over 100 tons each, with perhaps a couple of feet of peat and heather growing on top. In the low ground about here only small erratics are found, matching the underlying Carboniferous strata. The striae and the roches moutonnees all agree: the ice flowed to the north-west.

17. Outrages of constant occurrence in Tireragh, 1822

    Tireragh · barony · Sligo · 1822

    Consequent on the distress which prevailed in 1822, outrages in the barony of Tireragh were of constant occurrence, adding to the pattern of recurring agrarian violence in that part of County Sligo.

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    In 1806 the state of the county — more particularly the barony of Tireragh — was so disturbed that it occasioned a debate in the House of Lords ; and agitation again occurred in 1817 ; whilst consequent on the distress which prevailed in 1822, outrages in Tireragh were of constant occurrence.

    It was stated that —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 162

    As the companion tells it

    You are travelling through or near Tireragh, a barony in County Sligo. In 1806 the state of this barony was so disturbed that it occasioned a debate in the House of Lords. Agitation again occurred in 1817. And consequent on the distress which prevailed in 1822, outrages here were of constant occurrence.

18. 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.

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    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.

19. Public house density in Sligo borough and county

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    County Sligo, with an estimated population of about 98,338, had 310 public houses, while the Borough of Sligo, with just over 10,000 people, had 85—a number noted as yearly increasing. The text remarks that the power of granting or refusing licences lay entirely in the hands of the authorities.

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    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

    Sligo town and its surrounding county had a notable number of public houses. County Sligo, with about 98,338 people, had 310. The borough itself, with just over 10,000, had 85, and that figure was said to be yearly increasing. The power to grant or refuse a licence lay entirely with the authorities.

20. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    This parish takes in part of Sligo itself. The river divides that portion from St. John's parish. Several of the town's public institutions stand in Calry. The County Infirmary is here, and the Fever Hospital. The Military Barracks, the Workhouse, and the District Lunatic Asylum are all situated in the parish as well. The incumbent of Calry serves as chaplain to the troops, to the workhouse, and to the asylum, tying the parish to each of those institutions. The parish itself stretches along the northern shore of Lough Gill and borders the parishes of Drumahaire, Lurganboy, Drumcliff, and Rosses Point. Within it there were two Sunday schools. One was held on Sunday morning at Calry school-house, with 180 children attending. The other took place in the afternoon at Ballinorley, with 33 children. Three daily schools operated under the National Board: the Model School, Calry National School, and Ballinorley National School. The incumbent held patronage and management of the two latter. So the parish carried not only the great institutions of county and town, but the ordinary schooling of its children as well.

21. 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.

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    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.

22. 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.

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    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.

23. 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.

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    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

    Sligo town gives its name to a county Agricultural Society started in 1840. The proprietors of large estates began it for the improvement of tillage-farming among the tenantry. Until a late period many parts of the county remained in a backward condition. Inglis, writing in 1834, described the Curlew range between Ballinafad and Boyle this way. 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 around them. 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. The society set out to change that.

24. 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.

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    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.

25. 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.

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    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.

26. Sligo Militia stationed at Cashel

    Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1808

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

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    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.

27. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Lough Arrow holds something beneath its water. Below the lowest level the water ever falls, stumps of large trees stand visible, like a submerged forest. A. B. Wynne explained that boggy margins eroded by wave action left tree stools subsiding to the bottom, still in their natural growth position. The same is seen in Lough Gill.

28. 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.

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    " 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.

29. 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.

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    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.

30. 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.

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    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

    This is Union Wood, where Mr. Cooper sold timber in the early 1800s. By 1802 the principal plantings in the county were at Markree, Annaghmore, Hazlewood, and Templehouse, and other owners had done something on a minor scale. The Dublin Society gave premiums for good plantations. Mr. Wynne obtained a prize for one in 1787, and Mr. O'Hara for one in 1798, both having succeeded well. Timber was scarce. Mr. Wynne sold "Irish firs" at 50s. the ton, 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 1815 there were very few to be seen in the parish of Kilmactiege, although Mr. Jones of Banada could boast of as many grown trees as sufficed for a rookery.

31. 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.

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    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.

32. 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.

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    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.

33. 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.

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    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.

34. 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.

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    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.

35. 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.

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    " 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.

36. 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.

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    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.

37. 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.

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    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

    Sligo stands along this road, and in the town the Assize Courts went up in 1878 and 1879. They were built on the site of the old Courthouse and gaol, and portions of those older buildings were worked into the new one, to a value of about 3000 pounds. The whole cost ran to about 17,000 pounds. The architect was Mr. R. Carroll, a fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects, and the front stretched about 150 feet along Albert Street in a freely treated Gothic style. The main entrance from Albert Street came through a large open arcaded porch, then a short vestibule, into a public hall. That hall was the principal route to the courts and the public offices on the ground floor. The Crown Solicitor's offices sat to the left of the entrance, with rooms beyond for prisoners in waiting. To the right were rooms for jurors in waiting and a barrister's consulting room. Adjoining that was the court-keeper's house, with accommodation for barristers and a private corridor leading straight to the two courts. The Crown and Record Courts lay behind the central hall, divided by a wide corridor that led to the judges' rooms and gave private access to barristers, solicitors and others with business there. Each court had two petty jury rooms attached. The courts were lighted by high windows and heated by hotwater pipes.

38. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through Ballymote. In 1760 this town was joined to the Sligo Presbyterian congregation. The first Presbyterian minister of whom there is anything definite known was Reverend Samuel Henry, who came from the Presbytery of Edinburgh in October 1694, and in May 1695 was ordained to the joint charge of Sligo and Moywater, which is Ballina. In July 1698, Moywater was separated from Sligo, which then became a distinct congregation under his charge. He resigned in 1728. The next minister was Reverend L. Ash, son of Captain Ash, one of the defenders of Derry, who had 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 Reverend H. Nesbitt, ordained by the Presbytery of Letterkenny on May 3, 1756. Reverend Nesbitt died in 1778. His successor was Reverend Joseph King, ordained by the Presbytery of Clogher on August 4, 1784. King resigned the charge and was succeeded the same year by Reverend Booth Caldwell, who died October 24, 1810. Reverend Jacob Scott was ordained to the joint charge on March 19, 1811. In 1823 the Sligo congregation became a separate charge, their first minister being Reverend James Heron, ordained March 1824. Heron becoming infirm, Reverend Moffatt Jackson was appointed as his assistant. Heron died at Rosses Point, July 28, 1860, and was succeeded by Jackson, who had been educated at the old Academical Institution, Belfast.

39. 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.

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    ^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.

40. 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.

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    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.

41. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    This is Moyview, where the first Pied Flycatcher ever recorded in Ireland was taken on the 18th of April, 1875. R. Warren listed the species as excessively rare in his catalogue of County Sligo birds. That single bird, captured in spring that year, was the first of its kind documented in Ireland.

42. 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'.

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    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

    Sligo stands on Carboniferous limestone. The system runs deep beneath the town and far around it, Upper, Middle, and Lower beds laid down when this land lay under a warm sea. Among those beds, at a place called Gibraltar, two miles west of Sligo, the limestone holds fossil corals called Zaphrentis. People here call them rams' horns. The corals are curved and cylindrical. Zaphrentis cylindrica runs 18 to 24 inches long and two or three inches across. They project from the surface of the limestone beds, worn clear by weather, so you can see them standing out from the rock. The beds themselves are often largely built from cluster corals such as Lithostrotion, packed together through the stone. Large brachiopods called Productus and Spirifer lie there too, fossilised in the same layers. Similar fossil beds appear on both sides of Ballysadare Bay. The same kind of corals weather out of a rock known as the Serpent, which takes its fanciful name from the masses of large curved cylindrical corals exposed on its surface. A mile east of that rock the beds are cut by a four-foot dyke of basalt. On the shore west of Streedagh House the rocks abound in the same specimens. The Carboniferous sandstone extends from the sea to the Ox range, four miles across, and the road from Dromore West to Sligo passes over it for a mile and a half. The limestone around Sligo is part of a wide formation. Lough Gill is almost entirely surrounded by Upper Limestone, and Lough Arrow as well. At Ballysadare the Lower Carboniferous Limestone yields a dark gray subcrystalline building stone, used even for tombstones. The rams' horns at Gibraltar are a small part of what this ancient stone holds.

43. Four breweries once operated in Sligo town

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1822–1892

    Sixty or seventy years before the 1890s, no fewer than four breweries operated within Sligo town itself, with others in surrounding rural districts. By the 1890s the sole survivor was the Lough Gill Brewery, owned by Messrs. Anderson & Co.

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    Some sixty or seventy years ago there were no less than four breweries iu working order wdthin the town of Sligo itself, in addition to others scattered throughout the adjacent rural districts ; and, now, the sole survivor is the Lough Gill Brewery, owned by Messrs. Anderson & Co. The produce

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 121

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town once had no fewer than four breweries working within it, with others scattered through the surrounding rural districts. By the 1890s the sole survivor was the Lough Gill Brewery, owned by Messrs. Anderson and Company.

44. Freedom of Sligo Borough presented to Rev. Dr. William Henery, 1760

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1760

    On 29 September 1760, the Provost and Free Burgesses of Sligo Corporation unanimously admitted Rev. Dr. William Henery as a Freeman, presenting his freedom in a Silver Box at the Town Hall in recognition of his attachment and good services to the Corporation and the County at large.

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    '■'■ Borough of Sligo to Wit. — We the Provost and Free Burgesses of the said Borough being assembled here this day do unanimously admit the Rev. Doctor William Henery to be a Freeman of this Corporation, and that his said Freedom be presented to him by the Provost in a Silver Box, for his attachment and good services to the said Corporation and the County in general. Given under our hands at the Town Hall this 29th day of September, 1760.

    " Edward Martha, Provost. " Phil. Cox. George Knox.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 51

    As the companion tells it

    In Sligo town, back in 1760, the Corporation gathered at the Town Hall on the 29th of September to honour a man named Reverend Doctor William Henery. The Provost and Free Burgesses unanimously admitted him as a Freeman of the Corporation, and they presented his freedom in a silver box. It was given, in their words,

45. Friary of the Order of St. Dominic built in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1803

    The Friary of the Order of St. Dominic was built in 1803 by Father Thomas Brennan and placed under the superintendence of a prior and two clergymen.

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    The Friary of the Order of St. Dominic was built in 1803 by Father Thomas Brennan, and was placed under the superintendence of a prior and two clergymen.

    The present Church of Holy Cross (commonly known as the Friary Church) is in High-street, and was erected about the year 1846, from the design of the late Sir John Benson. It was consecrated on the Feast of the Epiphany in 1848, but the belfry was not completed until 1859 (fig. 24). Unfortunately the building is so closed in by the neighbouring shops and houses that no good view can be obtained of its proportions. It consists of a tower, porch, nave, and chancel. The tower is a handsome structure of limestone, having two buttresses in each face, at the angles. The east doorway in the tower has a low ope, with slender shafts in recesses in the jambs, sui'mounted by elaborately cut mouldings in the pointed circle. The two-light windows of the nave are lancet-headed. The east window in the chancel is a five-light window, the head of which is filled with elaborate tracery, and it contains fine stained glass. The roof nearly resembles, in some of its featm-es, that of Westminster Hall. It consists of a large main arch, with smaller arches, principal rafters, purhns, hammer-beams, curved sheets, and wall-pieces, and inside it has

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 63

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this town holds a Dominican friary founded in 1803 by Father Thomas Brennan, placed under the care of a prior and two clergymen. The friary church standing today is the Church of Holy Cross on High Street, commonly called the Friary Church, erected around 1846 from a design by Sir John Benson. It was consecrated on the Feast of the Epiphany in 1848, though the belfry was not finished until 1859. The building is hemmed in by neighbouring shops and houses, so no good view of its proportions can be had. It has a tower, porch, nave, and chancel. The limestone tower has two buttresses on each face at the angles. The nave windows are lancet-headed, two lights each. The chancel's east window has five lights with elaborate tracery and fine stained glass. The roof resembles in some features that of Westminster Hall, with a main arch, smaller arches, hammer-beams, and curved sheets.

46. Gambling in Sligo town

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    Gambling was very general in Sligo town at the close of the last century, with public lotteries advertised. Even at the time of writing, groups of men and boys played pitch and toss on Sunday mornings after divine worship.

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    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.

    "After prayers," says Lady Morgan in her Patriotic Sketches, " persons of both sexes and of all ages adjourn to the fields, to witness a hurling match, or some similar manly sport. The respective parties are drawn up like two little armies, and distinguished from each other by their colours. Their goals are generally placed about 200 yards distant. ..." Another game, the Cathu-clogh, or flinging of the stone, resembled the ancient Greek pastime of the discus. The candidate who panted for the fame of the virtues that are placed in nerve and bone took a stone of immense weight in his right hand, inclined his body a little forward, advanced one leg, poised his arm, and

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 206

    As the companion tells it

    As you come into Sligo town, you are passing through a place where gambling was woven into everyday life. At the close of the last century, public lotteries ran here, with advertisements promising advantages in large type, aimed, as the book puts it, at inducing the proverbial fool and his money to part company. Gambling was very general in the town then, and even at the time of writing, it was no uncommon thing on a Sunday morning, after divine worship, to see groups of men and boys playing pitch and toss, or some game offering equal chances to lose a large portion of the previous week's hard-earned wages. Lady Morgan, in her Patriotic Sketches, described what followed prayers in the fields nearby. Persons of both sexes and all ages would gather to watch a hurling match, the parties drawn up like two little armies, distinguished by their colours, with goals placed about 200 yards apart. Another game, the Cathu-clogh, or flinging of the stone, resembled the ancient Greek discus. The contender took a stone of immense weight in his right hand, inclined his body forward, advanced one leg, and poised his arm.

47. Lawn-tennis ground established near Ardowen in 1881

    Ardowen · townland · Mayo · 1881

    A lawn-tennis ground was leased in 1881 in a sheltered nook on the north side of the road leading to Ardowen. Significant money was spent laying out courts and erecting a pavilion and caretaker's house, and yearly tournaments open to the whole kingdom were held there.

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    In a well-sheltered nook on the north side of the road leading to Ardowen, a site for a lawn-tennis ground was taken on lease in 1881, and a large sum of money expended in laying out the courts, and erecting a pavilion and house for the caretaker. Here tournaments open to the whole kingdom are held yearly, and at that time the place, when thronged with fair athletes, presents a most animated appearance.

    A polo club — first started in 1878 — is now a well-established source of amusement for those who enjoy that sport. The ground where the members meet is most picturesquely situated in the demesne of Hazlewood. Of late the club has made for

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 207

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in a well-sheltered nook on the road leading to Ardowen, a lawn-tennis ground was leased in 1881. A large sum of money went into laying out the courts and erecting a pavilion and a house for the caretaker. Yearly tournaments were held here, open to the whole kingdom, and when the place was thronged with athletes it presented what the source calls a most animated appearance.

48. Libraries and news rooms established in Sligo town

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1747–1834

    By 1747 Sligo town had a public room with newspapers, and by 1797 a regular news room was long established. A circulating library opened in 1828, and by 1834 Inglis noted three libraries in the town—the first he had seen between Limerick and Sligo.

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    So early as 1747, there was in the town a public room, in which newspapers were kept, and in 1797 a regular newsroom is stated to have been long established. A circulating library was opened in the year 1828 ; in 1834 Inglis remarked that there were no fewer than three libraries, a public-subscription and two circulating-libraries ; these were the first he had seen between Limerick and Sligo. There are now news-rooms at the Town-Hall, the Constitutional and County Club, and also at the Protestant Hall.

    A poem entitled " The Alarm " appeared a few days after a scare that occurred in the town of Sligo, in May, 1797, consequent on a report that a numerous party of rebels were on the march to attack the place. The tumult and terror produced amongst the inhabitants is very wittily described ; the confusion continued during several hours, until it was discovered that no real cause of apprehension existed. The authorship of this once locally celebrated squib was never traced ; many persons were credited with it, but none of the " suspects " were really capable of its composition. Like " The Letters of Junius " the pen that produced it will never be known, and for this secrecy there was ample reason, as in case of the author revealing his identity, he would have had duels on hands for the remainder of his term of life, every inhabitant of any note

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 204

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town has a long habit of reading the news. As early as 1747, there was a public room here where newspapers were kept, and by 1797 a regular newsroom was said to have been long established. A circulating library opened in 1828. In 1834, Inglis remarked that there were no fewer than three libraries in the town, a public subscription library and two circulating libraries. He said these were the first he had seen between Limerick and Sligo. News-rooms are also recorded at the Town-Hall, the Constitutional and County Club, and the Protestant Hall. In May 1797, the town had a fright. A report spread that a numerous party of rebels were on the march to attack the place. Tumult and terror seized the inhabitants for several hours, until it was discovered that no real cause of apprehension existed. A few days later, a poem appeared called "The Alarm," wittily describing the confusion. Its authorship was never traced. Many were credited with it, but none of the suspects were capable of the composition. Like "The Letters of Junius," the pen that produced it will never be known. There was ample reason for the secrecy, as in case of the author revealing his identity, he would have had duels on his hands for the remainder of his life, every inhabitant of any note.

49. Memorial tablet in Calry Church for clergy education fund

    Calry · parish · Sligo · 1856–1885

    A charitable fund was established for educating sons of the clergy connected to County Sligo. After sufficient money was raised, the trustees erected a memorial tablet in Calry Church and invested the balance in tithes and securities, yielding about £60 annually.

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    The last-named acted as treasurer and secretary for several years, and by his exertions up to the date of his death in 1856 the prosperity of the fund was mainly established. Sufficient money having been received, the trustees, after erection of a memorial tablet in Calry Church, invested the balance in the purchase of tithes and in other securities, from which an income is derived for the education of such sons of the clergy as are eligible for the benefits of the trust. The Rev. James Gully, Rector of St. Peter's, Athlone, undertook the charge of the fund on the death of W. 0. Wood, and by him the finances were collected and disbursed, until failing liealth compelled him to resign the task. He was succeeded by the Rev. Thomas Heany, Incumbent of Calry, who after two years of management gave up the secretaryship, which was then handed over to the Rev. Canon F. Flood, by whom, since 1885, the trust has been and is still administered. By this fund about twenty sons of the clergy have been assisted in their education ; some of them are now in the ministry of the Church, and others are filling important positions in life; at present two sons of clergymen, who belong to the county, are deriving benefit from its annual grant. The amount of interest which of late years has been available is somewhat under £60, derived from nine holders of rentcharges, by whom yearly or half-yearly payments are punctually made. Any clergyman who is either a native of the county, or, who has served within its boundary, may, on the occurrence of a vacancy, apply for aid in educating his sons.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 67

    As the companion tells it

    The road passes through the parish of Calry, in County Sligo. A charitable fund was established for educating sons of the clergy connected to the county. W. O. Wood acted as treasurer and secretary for several years, and by his exertions up to the date of his death in 1856 the prosperity of the fund was mainly established. Sufficient money having been received, the trustees erected a memorial tablet in Calry Church. The balance was invested in the purchase of tithes and in other securities, from which an income is derived for the education of such sons of the clergy as are eligible for the benefits of the trust. On the death of W. O. Wood, the Reverend James Gully, Rector of St. Peter's, Athlone, undertook the charge of the fund, and by him the finances were collected and disbursed, until failing health compelled him to resign the task. He was succeeded by the Reverend Thomas Heany, Incumbent of Calry, who after two years of management gave up the secretaryship, which was then handed over to the Reverend Canon F. Flood, by whom, since 1885, the trust has been and is still administered. By this fund about 20 sons of the clergy have been assisted in their education. Some of them are now in the ministry of the Church, and others are filling important positions in life. At present, two sons of clergymen belonging to the county derive benefit from its annual grant. The interest available of late years is somewhat under £60, derived from 9 holders of rentcharges, by whom yearly or half-yearly payments are punctually made. Any clergyman who is either a native of the county, or who has served within its boundary, may, on the occurrence of a vacancy, apply for aid in educating his sons.

50. Modern cross at St. Attracta's well, Kilturra

    Kilturra · townland · Sligo

    A modern cross near the ancient cross at Kilturra was erected at the close of the last century by 'Bishop Phillips.' It is a plain limestone headstone without lettering.

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    Near it stands a modern cross, stated to have been erected at the close of the last century by "Bishop Phillips." It is composed of a quadrangular piece of limestone, resembling an ordinary headstone in a graveyard. It is 27 inches in height, by 16| inches in width ; there is no lettering on it.

    The " patron " held on the 11th of August at the well was abolished about the year 1776. Being on the borders of the county it was largely attended by Mayo and Roscommon people. At the close of one of these " patrons " a faction fight occurred ; a man was killed quite close to tlie priest's residence, and by him the annual gathering was then interdicted.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 187

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, near the ancient cross at St. Attracta's well in Kilturra, stands a modern cross said to have been erected at the close of the last century by "Bishop Phillips." It is a plain quadrangular piece of limestone, 27 inches tall and 16 inches wide, with no lettering on it. It resembles an ordinary graveyard headstone. The patron held on the 11th of August at the well was abolished about 1776. Being on the borders of the county, it drew large crowds from Mayo and Roscommon. At the close of one of these patrons a faction fight broke out. A man was killed close to the priest's residence, and by him the annual gathering was then interdicted.

51. Provincial Bank building, Stephen Street, designed by Deane

    Stephen Street · street · Sligo

    The Provincial Bank's handsome edifice in Stephen Street was designed by Sir T. N. Deane and erected at a cost of nearly £6,000. The Renaissance-style front is composed of Mountcharles stone, with sides and rear of Ballysadare limestone.

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    The present handsome edifice occupied by the Bank in Stephen-street was designed by Sir T. N. Deane, and erected at a cost of nearly £6000. It is in the Renaissance style ; the front, which presents a fine appearance, is composed of Mount- Charles stone, the capitals of the pilasters and frieze being

    N

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 89

    As the companion tells it

    The Provincial Bank building on Stephen Street in Sligo was designed by Sir T. N. Deane and erected at a cost of nearly £6000. It is in the Renaissance style. The front, which presents a fine appearance, is composed of Mountcharles stone, with the sides and rear of Ballysadare limestone.

52. Rosses Point Challenge Cup purchased (1880)

    Rosses Point · town · Sligo · 1880

    The Rosses Point Challenge Cup was purchased by public subscription in 1880 and became the absolute property of W. R. Fenton after three successive wins.

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    " The Rosses Point Challenge Cup," purchased by public subscription in 1880, is of embossed workmanship, and weighs about 33 ounces.

    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.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 198

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Rosses Point in Sligo, you are in a place with a sailing tradition. In 1880, a Challenge Cup was purchased here by public subscription, a piece of embossed workmanship weighing about 33 ounces. By 1891 it had become the absolute property of W. R. Fenton, who had won it three times in succession. A similar cup, the Corporation Challenge Cup valued at 25 pounds, had already been finally won in 1876 by the cutter Nymph, belonging to R. B. Pettigrew.

53. Signal cabins erected with electric block-system

    Kilfree · townland · Sligo

    A large signal-cabin was erected at Kilfree with electrical repeaters, and new signal-cabins were built at Collooney, Carricknagat, Ballysadare, and Sligo. The absolute block-system was enforced between these stations, with signals worked by electricity.

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    At Kilfree a large signal-cabin was erected at considerable expense, and fitted with all the latest appliances, including electrical repeaters ; also new signal-cabins at CoUooney, Carrickuagat, Ballysadare, aud Sligo, between which stations the absolute block-system is in force, the signals being worked by electricity.

    The Sligo and Ballaghaderreen line connects with the Midland Great Western system at Kilfree Junction. Nearly six miles of it are iu the county.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 107

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, a large signal-cabin was erected at considerable expense, fitted with all the latest appliances, including electrical repeaters. New signal-cabins went up at Collooney, Carricknagat, Ballysadare, and Sligo. The absolute block-system was enforced between these stations, the signals worked by electricity. The Sligo and Ballaghaderreen line connects with the Midland Great Western system at Kilfree Junction. Nearly 6 miles of it run through the county.

54. Sligo town population peaked in 1831 then declined

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1659–1881

    Sligo town's population grew from 488 in 1659 to a peak of 15,152 in 1831 under the Parliamentary Borough boundary, then declined to 10,808 by 1881. The decrease occurred mainly among the very poorest class of inhabitants.

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    The decrease of population in the town of Sligo has taken place, seemingly, amongst the very poorest class. It is difficult

    1 Population of Countj'^ Sligo by Baronies :-

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town around you once held 15,152 people in 1831, its peak under the Parliamentary Borough boundary, up from 488 in 1659. By 1881 that had fallen to 10,808. The decrease, the record says, took place "amongst the very poorest class" of inhabitants.

55. Sligo villages and Tubbercurry workhouse in 1881 Census

    Tobercurry · town · Sligo · 1881

    The 1881 Census recorded Ballymote with 1,145 inhabitants, Tubbercurry with 1,081 including 148 workhouse inmates, Easky with 374, Bellahy with 274, and Aclare with only 207 souls, illustrating the severe depopulation of smaller settlements.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Tobercurry is one of the Sligo villages the road brings you through. In the 1881 Census, this town contained 1,081 people, and 148 of those were workhouse inmates. Ballymote was the largest, with 1,145. Easky had 374. Bellahy had 274. Aclare had only 207 souls. The book records that villages had decreased in nearly the same proportion as the wider population. Collooney, which held about 650 people in 1841, had fewer than 400 by 1881. Despite the depopulation, Sligo compared favourably for health. From 1871 to 1880 the county had the second-lowest death rate in all of Ireland, at 14.1 per thousand, behind only Mayo at 13.9. Dublin stood at 26.2. The average across Ireland from 1879 to 1888 was 18.4.

56. Tobernacoragh well on Inismurray

    Inishmurray · townland · Sligo · 1780–1799

    Beranger, writing at the close of the eighteenth century, described Tobernacoragh or 'The well of assistance' on Inismurray. He noted the inhabitants as Roman Catholics, seemingly innocent, good-natured and devout.

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    The holy wells in the county (although many of them in a greater or less degree have now lost their sacred character) are still numerous. In the parish of Ahamlish, St. Bridget's and St. Molaise's wells, and those in the island of Inismurray, have been already described, but it may be interesting to quote a reference made by Beranger at the close of the last century, to Tobernacoragh, or " The well of assistance." He states that the inhabitants of Inismui-ray, "all Eoman Catholicks, seem very innocent, good natured, and devout, but at the same time very

    1 Calliagh-a- Veragh is the denuded cist of a earn. Cams on the summits of mountains were erected by the people at the time of the flood, to try and escape the rise of the waters ; such is their origin, according to the ideas of some of the peasantry.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 179

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through the parish of Ahamlish, you're in country that once held a number of holy wells. St. Bridget's and St. Molaise's wells here, and those on Inishmurray, were still recognised in the county, though many such wells had already lost their sacred character by the time of writing. A late eighteenth-century observer named Beranger noted one well called Tobernacoragh, "the well of assistance," and described the people of Inishmurray as Roman Catholic, innocent, good natured, and devout.

57. Yeomanry corps proposed for Sligo loyalists

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1796

    In autumn 1796, Government proposed that all loyal subjects in Sligo should embody themselves into corps similar to those already formed in England, in addition to the Militia. The Sligo Yeomanry was subsequently formed, as evidenced by surviving uniform buttons and ornaments.

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    In the autumn of 1796 Government proposed that — in addition to the Militia — all loyal subjects should embody themselves into corps similar to those already formed in England, and subject to the control of the proper authorities ;

    \_To face page 12.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 5

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, it's worth knowing that in the autumn of 1796, the Government proposed that all loyal subjects here should embody themselves into corps similar to those already formed in England, in addition to the Militia, and subject to the control of the proper authorities.

58. Ardcree bridge near Annaghmore

    Ardcree · townland · Sligo

    Ardcree bridge, near Annaghmore, is noted as possibly contemporaneous with the oldest bridges in County Sligo, sharing their early construction style.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Ardcree there is a bridge that may be among the oldest in County Sligo. The oldest bridges still standing in the county are those at Bellarush, near the north end of Lough Arrow, and Drumcliff. No date can be given for when either was built, but from their narrow arches and their style of masonry, they must have been long in existence. The bridge here, near Annaghmore, was possibly built about the same time as those. No one can say for certain when the stonework was laid, only that it shares something with those older crossings.

59. Bronze brooch found in bed of Lough Gill

    near Lough Gill · lake or lakes · Kerry

    A Celtic-style bronze brooch was discovered in the bed of Lough Gill and came into the possession of Mr. Robert Day of Cork. It was noted as one of several fine bronze ornaments found in County Sligo.

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    was presented by him to the Royal Irish Academy (fig. 43). Several beautiful ornaments and brooches of fine bronze, ornamented in Celtic style, have from time to time been discovered; notably one found at Ballyglass, and another in the bed of Lough Gill, which is now in the possession of Mr. Robert Day, of Cork.

    (C^

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 124

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass Lough Gill, you're near a lakebed that gave up a Celtic-style bronze brooch years ago. It was one of several fine bronze ornaments discovered in County Sligo from time to time, and this one ended up in the possession of Mr. Robert Day, of Cork.

60. Butter export and dairy development in Sligo town

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1770–1800

    There were no dairies in Sligo in 1770, but by 1800 they were fairly numerous and the export of butter from the town was considerable. This marks a significant shift in the county's agricultural economy over three decades.

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    There were no dairies in Sligo in 1770, but in 1800 they were fairly numerous. The export of butter from the town was considerable. The sudden and vast increase in the quantity and

    ' Table showing Quantity of Live Stock in County Sligo for the Teaks 1848, 1857, 1867, 1877, and 1887.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 142

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, it's worth knowing the town's butter trade changed fast. In 1770 there were no dairies here at all. By 1800 they were fairly numerous, and butter exports from the town were considerable. The material speaks of a sudden and vast increase in the quantity. A quiet agricultural town turned into a busy dairy centre in just thirty years.