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. Mayor warns of contaminated pumps during cholera threat

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1866

   In August 1866, the Mayor of Sligo posted a notice identifying the worst water in town as that in old Pound Street, followed by the Lungy and Chapel-lane pump, and warning inhabitants to boil water before drinking due to epidemic disease threat.

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   In August, 1866, the following notice was posted up by order of the Mayor : — " It appears that the worst water in the town is that in old Pound-street ; next to that, the Lungy and Chapel-lane pump. The water in all the other pumps is comparatively pure, thougli hard ; the railway water and the Pathbra ghan water are bad In the present state of the public

   health, and when threatened with epidemic disease (cholera).

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 92

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, it's worth knowing that in August 1866 the Mayor posted a public notice about the town's water. He named the worst water as that in old Pound Street, followed by the Lungy and Chapel Lane pump, and warned that with cholera threatening, inhabitants should boil their water before drinking.

2. Pollnamaddow earliest settlement on Coney Island

   Pollnamaddy · promontory · Mayo

   Tradition identifies Pollnamaddow as the site of the earliest settlement on Coney Island in Sligo harbour. The settlement was later removed to a more central hollow called Shanbally before inhabitants migrated to the eastern shore about 150 years prior to the book's writing.

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   sive and magnificent prospect. Tradition points to the earliest settlement in the island having been at the locality styled Pollnamaddow. In comparatively recent times the " seat of empire " was removed to the centre of the island, to a sheltered hollow styled Shanbally {i.e. old village), where the plough still turns up quantities of charcoal, the pavements of " streets," or the foundations of houses. About 150 years ago the inhabitants, following as usual the channel of trade, emigrated to the eastern shore, where the village now exists. During the year of the famine a road, which was originally intended to go round the island, was commenced, but never completed.

   At low water, during spring tides, the rocky ledge from the lighthouse to the island is so far uncovered as to enable communication to be carried on dryshod between it and the land. It is probably somewhere in this locality that the galleon of the Spanish Armada was wrecked, after having been repaired in Sligo ; for it is stated that antique silver ornaments, «S;c., of sixteenth centuiy workmanship were to be seen in houses at Bosses Point and on Coney Island. Numerous wrecks also have occurred on the island.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 112

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere about Pollnamaddy, tradition points to the earliest settlement on Coney Island in Sligo harbour as having been at a place called Pollnamaddow. In time the settlement shifted to the centre of the island, to a sheltered hollow called Shanbally, meaning old village. There the plough still turns up quantities of charcoal, the pavements of streets, and the foundations of houses. About 150 years ago the inhabitants moved again, following the channel of trade to the eastern shore, where the village now stands. During the famine year a road was begun, meant to go round the island, but it was never finished. At low water during spring tides, a rocky ledge from the lighthouse to the island is uncovered, allowing a person to cross dryshod between island and land. It is probably somewhere in this locality that a galleon of the Spanish Armada was wrecked, after being repaired in Sligo. Antique silver ornaments of sixteenth century workmanship were to be seen in houses at Rosses Point and on Coney Island. Numerous wrecks have also occurred on the island.

3. Provost's daily court in the Market, Sligo

   Sligo · town · Sligo

   The Provost of Sligo sat daily in a small house in the Market, serving as a courthouse to settle disputes. His jurisdiction extended to sums not exceeding three pounds six shillings and eightpence Irish, with a Court of Record handling larger amounts.

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   fees, and other profits and perquisites belonging to that office during the time of his (Ormsby's) absence." Every day, at a stated hour, the Provost sat in a small house — by courtesy styled a courthouse — in the Market, for the purpose of settling disputes. His jurisdiction there, only extended to sums not exceeding three pounds six shillings and eight pence, Irish ; but over a Court of Record, to a larger amount.

   The first legal step in an action before the Provost was " a complaint," which was entered in a book, the plaintiff alleging that there was a sum of money due to liim by a person residing in tlie borough ; for if the cause of action did not occur within those limits, the case could not be entertained. " The action was then issued," in the form of an order to attach the goods of the defendant, or as a " service action " or notice to the defendant to appear at the next Court ; and if necessary a jury was empannelled; they might try any number of cases, each, however, separately ; but no verdict was given until all the cases to be disposed of had been heard.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 50

   As the companion tells it

   In Sligo, the Provost once held a daily court. At a stated hour each day he sat in a small house in the Market, a place called a courthouse by courtesy. His jurisdiction there ran only to sums not exceeding three pounds six shillings and eight pence, Irish. A Court of Record handled larger amounts. The first step in an action before the Provost was a complaint, entered in a book. The plaintiff alleged that a sum of money was due to him by a person residing in the borough. If the cause of action did not occur within those limits, the case could not be entertained. The action was then issued, in the form of an order to attach the goods of the defendant, or as a "service action," a notice to the defendant to appear at the next Court. If necessary a jury was empanelled. They might try any number of cases, each separately, but no verdict was given until all the cases to be disposed of had been heard.

4. Rebels desecrate churches at Lackan, Easky, Killraghtige and Enniscrone

   near Inishcrone · town · Sligo · 1798

   Insurgents damaged several Protestant churches, removing carpenter work and tearing books. Enniscrone church suffered worst: flooring torn up, pews and communion table demolished, tombs rifled, and remains of the dead desecrated.

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   The Protestant clergy were also compelled to fly precipitately; the persecution levelled against them had not been confined to imprisonment of their persons and destruction of tlieir houses and property, but was even extended to the demolition of their churches, from which all carpenter work was. removed, and the books found in them wantonly torn. Amongst the churches most damaged were those of Lackan, Easky, Killraaeteige, and Enniscrone. Of the latter they tore up the flooring, demolished the pews and communion table, rifled the tombs, and desecrated the remains of the dead.

   In this work of destruction the Sligo insurgents were aided by those of Mayo. All the houses of the gentry were plundered ; some were even demolished. The principal sufferers were Mr. Nesbitt of Scurmore, Mr. Fenton of Easky, Mr. Brown of Fortland, Mr. Grove, rector of Kilmacslialgan, Mr. Charles and Mr. Robert Jones, the Messrs. Wood, and several others.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 12

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Inishcrone, you are near ground where the 1798 insurgents attacked several Protestant churches. They pulled the carpenter work from the churches at Lackan, Easky, Killraghtige, and Enniscrone, and tore the books they found. The Enniscrone church suffered worst. They tore up the flooring, demolished the pews and communion table, rifled the tombs, and desecrated the remains of the dead. The Sligo insurgents were aided by those of Mayo. All the houses of the gentry were plundered, and some demolished. The principal sufferers were Mr. Nesbitt of Scurmore, Mr. Fenton of Easky, Mr. Brown of Fortland, Mr. Grove rector of Kilmacshalgan, Mr. Charles and Mr. Robert Jones, the Messrs. Wood, and several others.

5. Shameful state of Sligo streets, 1872 report

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1872

   A committee appointed in 1872 to report on the state of Sligo's streets found them 'absolutely shameful,' with dirt left for days, water tables filled up, and grass growing along the flags, causing flooding of streets and houses in wet weather.

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   In 1869 the whole charge of the streets was handed over to the Corporation ; but the committee appointed in 1 872 to report on the state in which they were kept issued the following : — " We report that the state of the streets of the town (when we consider the increased sum paid by the Corporation for having them properly cleansed) is absolutely shameful ; dirt scraped from the centre to the sides, and allowed to remain there for days, the water tables filled up, and in some streets grass growing along the edge of the flags," the consequence being that in wet weather the streets, and sometimes even the houses, were flooded, and mud was everywhere in its several stages, of " stony, sticky, slodgy, slushy, and washy." The Town Council shortly afterwards took the repairing and cleansing into their own hands, but the result not being much better they again placed the arrangement in the hands of a contractor—

   " No wonder citizens would cry,

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 103

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, this was a town that struggled with its own streets. The Corporation took full charge of them in 1869, but a committee appointed in 1872 to report on their condition found things, in their word, "absolutely shameful." Dirt was scraped from the centre to the sides and left there for days, the water tables were filled up, and grass was growing along the edge of the flags. In wet weather the streets flooded, and sometimes even the houses, with mud in every stage from stony to slushy. The Town Council took repairing and cleansing into their own hands shortly after, but the result was not much better, so they placed the arrangement back in the hands of a contractor.

6. Sligo coast fishery extent and declining employment

   Mullaghmore · town · Sligo · 1850–1888

   The Sligo coast fishery extended from Ballina Bridge to Mullaghmore. In 1850 it employed 575 registered vessels with 3263 men and boys, but by 1888 only 209 boats and 889 men remained along an even longer stretch of coast.

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   Toward the close of the last century, a grant was given by the Irish Parliament for the purpose of promoting the whale fisher}^ but it was discontinued shortly afterwards. The spermaceti whale occasionally frequents this littoral ; the bottleuose whale appears in shoals, and follows the herrings and other migratory fish into the bays and inlets of the coast, " one of the signs of fish " (as fishermen express it) is tlie appearance of these whales. The basking-shark or true sun-fish varies in length from thirty to forty feet, and in the summer months they were formerly numerous off the Sligo coast. The value of the spermaceti whale at the commencement of the century was very great, that of the basking-shark, £45 ; foreign competition, however, has now reduced that amount considerably. In the year 1884, two of the latter species, each nearly thirty feet in length, were captured, and their combined value did not exceed £30. The ordinary sun-fish is not uncommon, and seals are very frequently seen on the coast. The Sligo coast fishery extends from Ballina Bridge to MuUaghmore. In 1850, it employed 575 registered vessels, with 3263 men and boys ; in 1853 the number of vessels had decreased to 216, and the crews to 1269, whilst in 1888, in the whole extent of coast from Ballina bridge to Donegal Abbey (or twenty miles in excess of the former limits) there were but 209 boats with 889 men.

   At Inniscrone the fishermen use nets, lines, lobster-pots, and trawl-nets ; and nearly every description of fish is taken. At Pollacheeny, Derkmore, &c., cod, pollock, haddock, whiting, herrings, mackerel, plaice, &c., are taken.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 128

   As the companion tells it

   The Sligo coast fishery extends from Ballina Bridge to Mullaghmore, a town on the Sligo coast. In 1850 that fishery employed 575 registered vessels with 3263 men and boys. By 1853 the number of vessels had fallen to 216 and the crews to 1269. By 1888, along an even longer stretch of coast running from Ballina Bridge to Donegal Abbey, 20 miles beyond the former limits, there were only 209 boats and 889 men. A grant from the Irish Parliament once promoted whale fishing on this coast, but it was discontinued shortly afterwards. The spermaceti whale occasionally frequents these waters. The bottle-nose whale appears in shoals and follows herrings and other migratory fish into the bays and inlets. The appearance of these whales is, as fishermen express it, "one of the signs of fish." The basking shark, or true sun-fish, 30 to 40 feet long, was formerly numerous off the Sligo coast in the summer months. At the start of the century the spermaceti whale was of very great value, and the basking shark was worth £45, but foreign competition has reduced that considerably. In 1884 two basking sharks, each nearly 30 feet, were captured, and their combined value did not exceed £30. The ordinary sun-fish is not uncommon, and seals are very frequently seen on the coast. At Inniscrone the fishermen use nets, lines, lobster-pots and trawl-nets, and nearly every description of fish is taken. At Pollacheeny and Derkmore, cod, pollock, haddock, whiting, herrings, mackerel and plaice are taken.

7. Sligo Corporation commissioners became a close borough, 1803-1833

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1803–1833

   Under the Sligo Acts of 1800 and 1803, commissioners were established to govern the town and harbour, but they soon became as exclusive a body as the former corporation. By 1833, Mr. Wynne used his large property and influence to fill vacancies among the elected commissioners, securing a preponderating influence over local governance.

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   These Commissioners soon became as close a borough as had been the former governing body ; the process was thus described in 1833: — The entire number of Commissioners was 40. Mr. Wynne (represented by the Provost) and his 12 Burgesses made up 13 of these ; the member for the borough and the two county members — of the latter one was his son-in-law, the other being a freeman — increased his number to 15 ; the inhabitants of the town elected 24 by ballot. In course of time, however, many of the original Commissioners having died or resigned, Mr. Wynne, from his large property and influence, succeeded in filling several of those vacancies ; thus the Corporators obtained a majority out of the 24 members elected under the Sligo Act, though if Mr. Wynne had induced only five of them to join those already enumerated, it would have sufficed to give him a preponderating influence.

   The Reform Bill of 1832 threw open the Parliamentary representation of the borough to a considerable electorate. Until the passing of that Imperial Act, the head for the time being of the Wynne family had, from the year 1723, represented, in his own person, the Corporation, and also the electors of Sligo, both for Parliamentary and local pui'poses. In consequence of the abuses and defective administration connected with the local government of all corporate towns in the United Kingdom, the Crown, in 1833, acceding to an address from both Houses of Parliament, issued Eoj^al Commissions, and in consequence of the reports from these bodies. Parliament con-

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 47

   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is Sligo, a town whose local governance was reshaped in these years. Under the Sligo Acts of 1800 and 1803, commissioners were set up to govern the town and harbour, but they soon became as close a borough as the old corporation they replaced. There were 40 commissioners in all. Mr. Wynne, through his provost and 12 burgesses, held 13 of those seats. The borough member and two county members, one his son-in-law, brought his number to 15. The townspeople elected the remaining 24 by ballot. Over time, as commissioners died or resigned, Wynne used his large property and influence to fill vacancies, until the corporators held a majority even among the elected 24. Five sympathisers would have sufficed to give him a preponderating influence over the whole body. The Reform Bill of 1832 opened the borough's parliamentary representation to a wider electorate. Until then, from 1723, the head of the Wynne family had represented the corporation and the electors of Sligo in his own person, for both parliamentary and local purposes. In 1833, following reports on abuses in corporate towns across the United Kingdom, the Crown issued Royal Commissions in response to addresses from both Houses of Parliament.

8. Sligo exhibition at Town Hall, April 1889, drew nearly 6000 visitors

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1889

   In 1889 the Sligo Young Men's Christian Association organized an exhibition in the Town Hall, with exhibits sent by the Science and Art Department of South Kensington. It remained open for eight days and nearly 6,000 people attended.

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   The Sligo United Young Men's Christian Association was formed in 1868, principally through the exertions of the Rev. John Dowden, who was then incumbent of Calry parish. In the beginning, the Association held its meetings in a small room near the "Victoria Bridge," but its progress being very rapid larger accommodation had to be procured, and on May 5th, 1880, an apartment in the Town Hall was hired. About 1884, the Primitive Methodists offered for sale their meeting house in Stephen-street ; it was purchased by a few gentlemen, was fitted up, and styled " The Sligo Protestant Hall." Rooms for their accommodation were then offered to the S. U. Y. M. C. A., at a much lower rent than those occupied by them in the Town Hall. In March, 1885, a branch of the Association transferred their property from the Town Hall to the Protestant Hall. At present there are about 150 members ; the reading-room is well supplied with periodicals, and the leading daily and weekly newspapers ; the library contains nearly 500 volumes. The dissentients to the removal of the Association from the Town Hall started a new society styled "The Sligo Young Men's Christian Association." In 1889 they entertained the idea of holding an Exhibition in the town ; the authorities of the Science and Art Department, South Kensington, consented to send a selection of exhibits, and from that time forward the Exhibition advanced considerably beyond the proportions originally contemplated. Promises of loans from local sources poured in, and the greater part of the Town Hall, where the Exhibition was to be held, was beautifully decorated. The opening day was fixed for April 8th ; the Exhibition remained open for eight days, and during that time nearly 6000 people passed through the doors.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 72

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, this is a town that once hosted an exhibition people came to in their thousands. The story begins with the Sligo United Young Men's Christian Association, formed in 1868, principally through the exertions of the Reverend John Dowden, then incumbent of Calry parish. At first the Association held its meetings in a small room near Victoria Bridge, but its progress was very rapid and larger accommodation had to be procured. On May 5th, 1880, an apartment in the Town Hall was hired. Around 1884, the Primitive Methodists offered for sale their meeting house in Stephen Street. A few gentlemen purchased it, had it fitted up, and called it the Sligo Protestant Hall. Rooms there were offered to the Association at a much lower rent than the Town Hall, and in March 1885 a branch transferred their property to the Protestant Hall. At that point the Association had about 150 members, a reading-room well supplied with periodicals and the leading daily and weekly newspapers, and a library of nearly 500 volumes. The dissentients to that removal started a new society, the Sligo Young Men's Christian Association. In 1889 they entertained the idea of holding an exhibition in the town. The authorities of the Science and Art Department at South Kensington consented to send a selection of exhibits, and from that time the exhibition advanced considerably beyond the proportions originally contemplated. Promises of loans from local sources poured in, and the greater part of the Town Hall was beautifully decorated. The opening day was fixed for April 8th. The exhibition remained open for eight days, and during that time nearly 6000 people passed through the doors.

9. Sligo Harbour pilots and the Metal Man landmark

   Sligo · town · Sligo

   Sligo Harbour pilots were divided into 'inside' and 'outside' classes, with duties split at the 'Metal Man' landmark. Formerly no proper superintendence existed, resulting in four casualties within six months due to pilots with bad sight or colour-blindness, though lately incapacitated pilots have been superannuated.

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   The pilots of the Harbour of Sligo are divided into two classes, i.e. the "inside" and "outside." The duties of the former extended from the " Metal Man " to the quays, and of the latter from the sea to the " Metal Man." Formerly no proper superintendence or inspection of these men was ever undertaken, so that some had bad sight and others were colourblind ; the consequence being that, within the short space of six months, there occurred four several casualties occasioned by the Harbour Commissioners electing men as pilots who wei'e not capable of properly filling the position. Fortunately, no really serious accident happened ; and lately all pilots labouring under physical infirmity, incapacitating them from their work, have been superannuated.

   The old inhabitants of Sligo do not (at any rate in historic times) appear to have been much addicted to a maritime life. The O'Dowds seem, however, at one period, to have had a predilection for sea-roving ; and in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries several accounts are given in the Irish Annals of expeditions undertaken by them, and generally crowned with success. In the " Book of Ballymote " there is a drawing of Noah's Ark, apparently a representation of a ship of the fourteenth century (fig. 40).

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 111

   As the companion tells it

   Sligo was a harbour town. Its pilots were divided into 2 classes, the inside and the outside. The inside pilots worked from the Metal Man to the quays, and the outside pilots worked from the sea to the Metal Man. The Metal Man was the landmark where their duties met. For a long time no one properly inspected these men. Some had bad sight and others were colour-blind. Within 6 months there were 4 casualties, because the Harbour Commissioners had elected pilots who were not capable of doing the work. Fortunately no really serious accident happened. Since then, pilots labouring under physical infirmity that incapacitated them from their work have been superannuated. The old inhabitants do not appear to have been much addicted to a maritime life. The O'Dowds, however, had a predilection for sea-roving, and in the 12th and 13th centuries the Irish Annals record their expeditions, generally crowned with success. In the Book of Ballymote there is a drawing of Noah's Ark, apparently a representation of a ship of the 14th century.

10. Sligo magistrates condemn rebel outrages

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1798

    A meeting of magistrates and principal gentlemen of County Sligo, convened by High Sheriff T. Ormsby, resolved to view with abhorrence the savage outrages in the Northern Counties and lamented that similar proceedings were creeping into the previously peaceable county.

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    This state of affairs did not mend, for, " at a meeting of the magistrates and principal gentlemen of the County of Sligo oonvenedby public notice, T. Ormsby, Esq., High Sheriff, in the chair, it was Resolved — That we view with the utmost abhorrence the savage outrages that have disgraced most of the Northern Counties, and some other parts of the kingdom, and are truly sorry to find that proceedings, similar thereto are creeping into this hitherto peaceable county."

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 7

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo town, you are moving through a place that in 1798 saw its own magistrates confront the shadow of rebellion. The High Sheriff, T. Ormsby, called the magistrates and principal gentlemen of the county together, and they resolved that they viewed with the utmost abhorrence the savage outrages that had disgraced most of the Northern Counties, and were truly sorry to find similar proceedings creeping into what they called this hitherto peaceable county. The gentlemen and landholders of Sligo had prided themselves on the respect for the laws the people showed, when most of the kingdom was disturbed by the United Irishmen. Yet the mass of the people were infected with those doctrines, even if they had not yet broken into open outrage. At the beginning of 1798, fugitive Roman Catholic families from the North arrived in Sligo seeking protection. They seemed decent and industrious, and they knew the linen manufacture, so the gentlemen of the county gave them asylum. Many spread near the sea-coast and lived peaceably for a time. But they brought with them prophecies they said came from the ancient Irish bards, foretelling wars and calamities shortly to come. Those prophecies worked powerfully on the minds of the lower class of people, who believed the predicted events must necessarily come to pass.

11. Sligo Militia at the Battle of Vinegar Hill

    near Vinegar Hill · hill or hills · Wexford · 1798

    In June 1798, the Sligo Militia, then designated the 22nd Light Infantry, formed part of the first line at the engagement at Vinegar Hill, County Wexford, carrying the position at the point of the bayonet. They suffered many men killed and wounded and three officers disabled.

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    On the 1st April, Roger Dodwell, was Gazetted first lieutenant, vice Fury, resigned, and on 20th June, Owen Wynne was appointed " First Captain " of " The Sligo Loyal Infantry." A letter, dated Jan. 2nd, states that " the inhahitants of Sligo had formed themselves into a military association to replace the regulars, should their absence be found necessary, and to act in any other manner that might be deemed expedient." During the spring of 1798 the Sligo Militia, then designated the 22nd Light Infantry, were quartered in the South of Ireland, and in June, distinguished themselves in the engagement at Vinegar Hill, County Wexford, forming portion of the first line which carried the position at the point of the bayonet, having many men killed and wounded, and three officers dis-

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    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 6

    As the companion tells it

    Vinegar Hill, in County Wexford, is where the Sligo Militia fought in June 1798. By then they were designated the 22nd Light Infantry, quartered in the south of Ireland during that spring. At Vinegar Hill they formed part of the first line, and they carried the position at the point of the bayonet. Many of their men were killed and wounded, and three officers were disabled. Earlier that year, Roger Dodwell had been gazetted first lieutenant on the 1st of April, vice Fury, resigned, and Owen Wynne had been appointed First Captain of the Sligo Loyal Infantry. A letter dated January the 2nd had stated that the inhabitants of Sligo had formed themselves into a military association to replace the regulars, should their absence be found necessary, and to act in any other manner that might be deemed expedient.

12. Sligo port butter exports decline sharply

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1800–1838

    Butter exports from Sligo port were very considerable at the start of the century, exceeding £200,000 in 1800. Some 150,000 casks left the quay in 1832–1833, but this fell to 50,000 by 1838.

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    At the commencement of this century the export of butter from the port was very considerable, amounting in 1800 to upwards of £200,000. 150,000 casks of butter left the quay in 1832-1833, but this fell in 1838 to 50,000 ; and according to evidence given before a Committee of the House of Commons,

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    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 119

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, its port once shipped enormous quantities of butter. In 1800 the export was worth upwards of 200,000 pounds. Some 150,000 casks left the quay in 1832 to 1833, but by 1838 that had fallen to 50,000.

13. Sligo's reputation for duelling before the Union

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    According to Sir Jonah Barrington, Sligo furnished many noted duellists prior to the Union, with admirable spirit and decorum. Sligo had many professors of duelling and a high reputation in what Barrington called the 'leaden branch of the pastime.'

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    " Sligo then furnished some of the finest young fellows, i. e. fire-eaters," remarks the above writer ; " their spirit and decorum were equally admirable, and their honour and liberality conspicuous on all occasions." A few of these earnest spirits fashioned a series of pandects which may be said to have regulated the practice of duelling till its final extinction ; or, again, to quote the foregoing authority, " Sligo had many professors, and a high reputation in the leaden branch of the pastime." The code was entitled, Tlte practice of dnelUng and •points of honour settled at Clomnell Summer Assizes, 1777, b// the gentlemot delegates of Tijyperary, Gahcay, Mayo, Sligo, and Roscommon, and prescribed for general adoption throughout Ireland.

    A sarcastic writer observed that sometimes " painful dis-

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 157

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo had a name for duelling before the Union. Sir Jonah Barrington wrote that the town furnished some of the finest young fellows, what he called fire-eaters, and that their spirit and decorum were equally admirable, their honour and liberality conspicuous on all occasions. A few of these earnest spirits fashioned a set of rules that may be said to have regulated the practice of duelling until its final extinction. In Barrington's words, Sligo had many professors, and a high reputation in the leaden branch of the pastime. The code itself was drawn up at Clonmel Summer Assizes in 1777, by delegates of Tipperary, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, and Roscommon, and prescribed for general adoption throughout Ireland.

14. Sligo Mendicity paupers employed sweeping streets

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1826–1845

    From 1826, the Sligo Town and Harbour Commissioners paid the Mendicity committee to use paupers for sweeping and cleaning the streets, with the grant increasing from £35 to £70. The arrangement ended in August 1834 due to defective scavenging, and the Mendicity site was sold by the grand jury for £280 in 1845.

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    On January 23rd, 1826, the Town and Harbour Commissioners gave the contract for sweeping and cleaning the streets to the committee of the Mendicity, for which a sum of £35, afterwards increased to £70, was allowed. The paupers appear to have been thus utilized until August, 1834, when, owing to the defective manner in which the scavenging was performed, the grant was discontinued. In 1845 the site of the Mendicity was sold by the grand jury for £280.

    On August 21st, 1839, a meeting of the Poor-Law Guardians of the Sligo Union was held in the Courthouse, and a list is here given of the first Board which assembled in the grand jury room of the above building : —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this town once had its streets swept by paupers. In 1826 the Town and Harbour Commissioners gave the cleaning contract to the Mendicity committee for £35, later raised to £70. Paupers did the work until August 1834, when the scavenging was judged defective and the grant stopped. In 1845 the grand jury sold the Mendicity site for £280.

15. Summer sea-bathing migration to Coney Island and seaside villages

    Inishmulclohy or Coney Island · townland · Sligo

    Each summer large numbers of people, called 'sea-pikes,' migrated from inland parts of County Sligo to seaside villages for bathing. On Coney Island bathers sometimes numbered 400, while Mullaghmore, Rosses Point, and Enniscrone were frequented by the better classes.

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    In the summer season there is an invasion of bathers — commonly termed " sea-pikes " — from the inland parts of the county and neighbouring districts, to the seaside villages. On Coney Island they sometimes amount, it is stated, to 400 in number. By the better classes, Mullaghmore, Rosses Point, and Enniscrone are greatly frequented. In his " Journey throughout Ireland," in 1834, Inglis thus alludes to the custom of summer-migration : — " I was surprised to meet every few hundred j^ards on the road (t. e. from Boyle to Sligo) carts heavily laden with country-people, many of them of the lowest order, and with different articles of furniture piled up, or

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 207

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Inishmulclohy or Coney Island, the summer brought what people called sea-pikes, crowds of bathers who came down from the inland parts of the county. Coney Island alone sometimes drew 400 of them. The better classes tended to go instead to Mullaghmore, Rosses Point, or Enniscrone. In 1834 a traveller named Inglis wrote that on the road from Boyle to Sligo he met carts every few hundred yards, heavily loaded with country people and their furniture, moving toward the coast.

16. Act of Union reduces Sligo Borough's parliamentary representation

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1800–1801

    Under the Act of Union, the Borough of Sligo's parliamentary representation was reduced from two members to one. The patron of the borough, Mr. Wynne, received pecuniary compensation for the loss of representation.

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    By the Act of Union the (representation of the Borough of Sligo was reduced to one member. All patrons of boroughs, however, received pecuniary recompense for their loss.^

    Thus, prior to the Eeform Bill of 1832, the Members for the Borough of Sligo were, from the year 1722, returned by the Wynne family. The old government of the Provost and twelve burgesses having been swept away by the Eeform Bill, the number of voters on the new and reformed register is stated to have been 418,^^ as compared with 695 on the county

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 24

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town, which the road passes through, lost half its voice in Parliament around 1800. Under the Act of Union, the Borough of Sligo's representation was reduced from two members to one. The Wynne family, who had returned the members since 1722, received pecuniary recompense for the loss.

17. Ballina salmon fishery let at heavy rent in 1778

    Ballina · townland · Mayo · 1778–1815

    The Ballina salmon fishery, described as the most important in the district, was let in 1778 for the heavy rent of £520 per year. The general yield was 70 to 80 tons of fish sold salted, besides fresh sales, though by 1815 no fish were salted for export and all were sent to the Dublin market.

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    The Ballina salmon fishery is the most important in the district ; in the year 1778 it was let for the then heavy rent of £520 a-year ; the general yield being from 70 to 80 tons of fish sold salted, besides what was sold fresh. But in 1815 there was none salted for exportation, and all those caught during the months in which they would bear to be carried were sent to the Dublin market.

    With regard to sea fishing for salmon, there had been bag-nets at Mullaghmore, at Rosskeeragh, at Streedagh, at Droraore West, at Enniscrone, but the Act passed in 1863 abolished all these ; afterwards, however, in 1866 an inquiry was held by the Fishery Inspectors, and the nets at Enniscrone and at Streedagh were restored ; there are now at the former place no less than 34 nets employed, each being 400 yards in length, and from Easky to Aughris, 18 boats are fishing, with nets of equal length.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is the Ballina salmon fishery, described as the most important in the district. In 1778 it was let for the heavy rent of £520 a year. The general yield was 70 to 80 tons of fish sold salted, besides what was sold fresh. By 1815, though, none were salted for export, and all the fish caught during the months they would bear to be carried were sent to the Dublin market.

18. Early travel routes across sandy inlets at Drumcliff

    near Drumcliff · parish · Sligo

    In the early 18th century, travel tracks ran directly across sandy inlets of the ocean at low water, including at Drumcliff, Streamstown, and Tanrago. Journeys were typically made on horseback along these rough routes.

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    "Wesley, in his Journal, describes his journeys by land, as well as passages made to Ireland in the Holyhead packetboats. He speaks of days sometimes occupied by the voyage, or passed in enforced idleness waiting the decision of the captain to put to sea. In the early part of the last century journeys were usually made on horseback, for the tracks not only led in a bee-line up and down hills, but ran across sandy inlets of the ocean when uncovered at low water, as for instance at Drumcliff, Streamstown, and Tanrago.

    For farm work the country people had some curious vehicles, which they also employed for conveying themselves to market.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 104

    As the companion tells it

    The parish of Drumcliff lies along this road. In the early part of the 18th century, journeys here were usually made on horseback. The tracks ran in a bee-line up and down hills, and they also went straight across sandy inlets of the ocean when the tide was out. Drumcliff was one of those places where the route crossed the sand at low water. Streamstown and Tanrago were others. Wesley, in his Journal, wrote of voyages and of days passed in enforced idleness, waiting for the captain to decide whether to put to sea. For farm work, the country people had curious vehicles, which they also used to get to market.

19. Fine race at Lough Gill regatta (1827)

    near Lough Gill · lake or lakes · Kerry · 1827

    At the August 1827 regatta on Lough Gill, the Lady Sarah won the Ladies' Cup by half a length over the Shamrock, both boats sailing 18 miles at 8 knots under three-reefed mainsails in hard northern winds.

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    "Thursday, 16th: it blew hard from the North. The 'Lady Sarah' and the 'Shamrock' started for the 'Ladies' Cup.' So fine a race was probably never seen, and the greatest skill was displayed. The ' Lady Sarah ' won by half a length — the boats having sailed the course of 18 miles at the rate of 8 knots an hour, under three-reefed mainsails, notwithstanding their having gone considerably out of the direct line by each endeavouring to keep the weather-gauge."

    Three of the competing boats which took first prizes at this regatta are still at Hazlewood, i. e. the "Lady Sarah," winner of the " Ladies' Cup " ; also the " Thames " and " Mayflower," which won the prizes for rowing-boats of four and two oars, respectively.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 197

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass near Lough Gill, that is the lake where a famous regatta was held in August 1827. On the 16th it blew hard from the north, and two boats, the Lady Sarah and the Shamrock, raced for the Ladies' Cup over a course of 18 miles at 8 knots, both under three-reefed mainsails. The Lady Sarah won by half a length, and the book records that "so fine a race was probably never seen." Three boats that took first prizes that day, including the Lady Sarah, were afterward kept at Hazlewood.

20. First Sligo port improvement and Ballast-Master appointment, c.1720–1730

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1720–1730

    Around 1720, the first attempt at improving the Port of Sligo was undertaken, leading to the 1730 appointment of Laurence Vernon as Ballast-Master under statute 3 George II. The Ballast-Master was empowered to repair the quay, cleanse the river, and erect navigation perches from tonnage duties.

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    been presented to the Crown by Lord Palmerston in 1814. Tlie Custom House Quay is now leased by the Honourable Commissioners of Customs to the Sligo Harbour Commissioners. The first attempt at improving the Port was undertaken eiird 1720 ; and the first Act relating to it appears to have been the 3 George II., c. 2, which enacted that the Corporation should be conservators of the Port, and should maintain a ballast-office lor improving and preserving it. It was at once acted on : —

    " Borough of Slicjo. — " We the Provost, burgesses, and freemen of the said borough having this day assembled, pui'suant to the Statute of the third of King George the Second, for erecting a Ballast-office in the port of Sligo, do hereby unanimously appoint Mr. Laurence Vernon to be Ballast -Master of the said port, and do hereby authorise and empower him, the said Laurence A\'rnon, to do all and everything, and to execute all powers to a Ballast-Master belonging, pursuant to the said Statute. And we do also authorise and empower him out of tlie first money arising for furnishing a Ballast for tonnage of all ships and vessels, and also duty on all boats, gabbards,' and lighters Avhich shall come into his hands as Master of the Ballast-office of the port of Sligo, to put tlie quay in repair and to cleanse the river, and to put up perches when necessary. And we do also allow the said Laurence Vernon a salary for the pains and trouble he shall be at in executing the office of Ballast-Master, six shillings and eight pence in the pound sterling, of the produce payable to the said Ballast-office. Witness our hands, the 28 day of July, 1730.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 115

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you're in a town whose port was first improved around 1720. The first act for the port was the statute 3 George II, which made the corporation conservators of the port and required them to maintain a ballast-office. It was put into action right away. On the 28th of July, 1730, the provost, burgesses, and freemen of the borough of Sligo assembled and appointed Mr. Laurence Vernon as Ballast-Master of the port. They empowered him to take the first money arising from ballast tonnage duties on all ships and vessels, and duty on all boats, gabbards, and lighters, and to use it to put the quay in repair, cleanse the river, and put up navigation perches when necessary. They also allowed Vernon a salary of six shillings and eight pence in the pound sterling of the produce payable to the ballast-office, for the pains and trouble of executing the office.

21. Lord Chief Justice praises Sligo's peaceful state

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1890

    At the summer assizes of 1890, Lord Chief Justice O'Brien congratulated the Sligo Grand Jury on the absence of criminal statistics, noting that boycotting was practically non-existent in the county and the constabulary return was satisfactory.

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    The damage inflicted by the mob on Protestant householders was made good to them by means of subscriptions raised by the Roman Catholics of the town. Since that period both county and borough have been models of peace and quiet. At the summer assizes (1890) the Lord Chief Justice O'Brien, in addressing the Grand Jury, said : — " The criminal statistics of your county — or rather, I should say, the absence of criminal statistics in your county, because there is no subject-matter of that description to deal with — enables me to congratulate you upon its very satisfactory condition. Boycotting is practically non-existent in this county, and the constabulary return is most satisfactory. I trust that this favourable and happy state of things will continue."

    and agree amongst themselves, maliciously to commit, and did commit damage to certain real property, that is to say, to the piers of the wall of the Courtyard of the Cathedral at Sligo, and to the piers of the gate leading to the House called the Presbytery at Sligo, and to the wall separating Catherine Tighe's house from the high-road, by knocking down aud displacing the stones, with which same were built, &c."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 165

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town has known quiet stretches. There was a time when a mob damaged Protestant householders, and the Roman Catholics of the town raised subscriptions to make good what had been done. After that, the book says both county and borough became models of peace and quiet. At the summer assizes in 1890, Lord Chief Justice O'Brien stood before the Grand Jury and told them what he saw. He said the criminal statistics of the county, or rather the absence of criminal statistics, because there was no subject-matter of that description to deal with, enabled him to congratulate them upon its very satisfactory condition. Boycotting was practically non-existent in the county, and the constabulary return was most satisfactory. He trusted that this favourable and happy state of things would continue. There had been trouble before, of a kind the courts knew how to name. People had agreed amongst themselves, maliciously, to commit and did commit damage to certain real property, the piers of the wall of the Courtyard of the Cathedral at Sligo, and the piers of the gate leading to the house called the Presbytery, and the wall separating Catherine Tighe's house from the high-road, by knocking down and displacing the stones.

22. Old Ballysadare bridge remains found beneath modern crossing

    Ballysadare · townland · Sligo · 1360–1586

    Remains of an old bridge at Ballysadare — perhaps erected in 1360 or 1586 — were discovered when workmen sank foundations for an eel-house just above the river's last fall before the tide; the modern bridge stands much higher upstream.

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    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.

    In recent years many handsome and substantial bridges have been built in the County ; of these the finest is the Victoria Bridge in the town of Sligo. It consists of five arches, each 21 ft. in span, and is entirely of ashlar masonry. It replaced the eight-arched bridge which formerly spanned the river a little below the present structure. The entrances to the old bridge were narrow and tortuous, and two vehicles were only just able to pass each other. A representation of it is given on the seal of tlie "Towti and Harbour Commissioners " (see p. 124).

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 100

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Ballysadare, the modern bridge stands much higher up the stream than the one that came before it. Remains of that old bridge were found when workmen were sinking foundations for an eel-house, which sits just over the last fall the river makes before its waters meet the tide. The old bridge may have been erected in 1360 or in 1586, though which date is the true one is not certain.

23. Out-door relief in Sligo Union during and after the Famine

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1847–1850

    On 23 December there were 1,491 recipients of out-door relief in the Sligo Union, with numbers rising again by midsummer of the following year. By March 1850 no out-door relief was given, but it was gradually reintroduced and many guardians treated relief as a vested right for recipients.

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    On the 23rd December there were 1491 recipients of outdoor relief ; in midsummer of the following year the numbers again rose; but in March, 1850, no out-door relief was given. It was, however, shortly afterwards gradually re-introduced, aud increased with scarcely any intermission. A person being once placed on the list, the majority of the Guardians appeared to consider the recipient had obtained a vested right in the relief, which in many instances might be regarded as an annuity paid with great regularity.

    The annexed statement shows the number of paupers in the Workhouse on the 1st September in each year, from the formation of the Union to 1855, together with the highest and lowest

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this town saw hard times in the winter of 1849. On 23 December, 1,491 people here were receiving outdoor relief, and by midsummer the numbers rose again. But in March 1850, no outdoor relief was given at all. It was gradually reintroduced shortly afterwards and increased almost without interruption. Once a person was placed on the relief list, most of the Guardians appeared to consider they had what the source calls a "vested right" to it, paid with great regularity like an annuity.

24. Oyster Island lighthouses placed in 1837

    near Oyster Island · townland · Sligo · 1837

    Two lighthouses were placed on Oyster Island in 1837 to define the harbour channel running along the north side of the Blackrock reef. The Bungar Bank has since gradually extended, rendering the lighthouses practically of little use without an experienced pilot.

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    Owing to the obstruction of the Bungar Bank {i.e. narrow entrance), the lighting of the port remained very defective ; and, in 1837, two lighthouses were placed on Oyster Island for the purpose of defining the cliaunel, which runs close along the north side of the Blackrock reef, shoaling rapidly from thence to Lissadell, The Bungar Bank has been ever since gradually extending, so that the present lighthouses on Oyster Island are practically of little use. They had been originally placed so as to be kept in one by a vessel when making the port : owing, however, to the continual change taking place in the bank, even this precaution is almost useless without an experienced pilot.^

    1 Since tlie foregoing was written a sector light has heen erected at the extremity of the island, showing red when the vessel is out of her course, but this is not considered satisfactory by the pilots, and the matter is now under the consideration of the Irish Lights Board, with a view to still further improvements.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 112

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Oyster Island, two lighthouses were placed in 1837 to define the harbour channel, which runs along the north side of the Blackrock reef. They were originally placed so a vessel making the port could keep them in line. But the Bungar Bank has been gradually extending ever since, so that the lighthouses are now practically of little use. Even keeping them in line is almost useless without an experienced pilot.

25. Pestilence kills O'Conor in Sligo Castle, 1361–62

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1361–1362

    A terrible pestilence visited Sligo in 1361 and 1362, carrying off many persons of note including the celebrated Cathal Oge O'Conor, who died in the castle of Sligo.

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    CAEEFUL reader of the early Irish annals cannot fail to observe therein the mention made of visitations of pestilence and famine. Although accounts may be disregarded of the annihilation by pestilence of the early colonies planted in Erin, still evidence remains of ever-recurring scourges of later date ; for instance, in 1224, 1228 to 1230, in 1315, in 1318. In 1327 small-pox raged ; and in the following year an epidemic broke out which was called Slaodan. This, it is stated, signifies a cough or cold ; hence the disease may be supposed to have been what is now termed influenza. In 1349 a great plague devastated the district of Moylurg on the boundaries of Roscommon and Sligo. In 1361 and 1362 Sligo was visited by a terrible pestilence which, amongst other persons of note, carried off the celebrated Cathal Oge O'Conor, who died in the castle of Sligo. In 1383 and 1384 " an awful and very fatal plague raged," as also in 1398 and 1424. In 1438 "the abbot of Kilnamanagh and Nicholas O'Meeny, vicar of Castleconnor, died of the plague," which appears to have been equally virulent the following year, as " The Four Masters " narrate that "Donogh, the son of O'Dowd, i.e. Teige ; Conor, son of Donal, the son of Cormac MacDonogh ; his wife, the daughter of Teige MacDonogh ; the vicar of Imleach-Iseal ; Donogh, the son of Tomaltach O'Bolan — all died of the plague." In 1447 " a great plague raged in the summer and harvest," and in 1464 there was another outbreak. In 1478 " a great plague was imported by a ship which entered the port of Bally shannon." In 1488 the plague raged in Ros-

    64 HISTORY OF SLIGO.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Sligo town, you're passing through a place that suffered a terrible pestilence in 1361 and 1362. Among the many who died was the celebrated Cathal Oge O'Conor, who died in the castle of Sligo. The early Irish annals record ever-recurring scourges of pestilence and famine across the centuries. A great plague had already devastated the district of Moylurg, on the boundaries of Roscommon and Sligo, in 1349. Smallpox raged in 1327, and the following year an epidemic broke out that was called Slaodan, which signifies a cough or cold, likely what is now termed influenza. But the visitation of 1361 and 1362 stands out for carrying off Cathal Oge O'Conor, a man the annals describe as celebrated. The plague returned again and again in the years that followed, in 1383 and 1384, and again in 1398 and 1424. In 1438 the abbot of Kilnamanagh and Nicholas O'Meeny, vicar of Castleconnor, died of the plague. The Four Masters record that the following year took Donogh the son of O'Dowd, Conor son of Donal, his wife, the vicar of Imleach-Iseal, and Donogh the son of Tomaltach O'Bolan, all to the plague. In 1447 a great plague raged in the summer and harvest, and another broke out in 1464. In 1478 a great plague was imported by a ship which entered the port of Ballyshannon.

26. Primrose Grange Boarding School on Knocknarea

    near Knocknarea · mountain or mountain range · Sligo · 1721–1892

    Primrose Grange Boarding School, situated on the southern slope of Knocknarea about four miles from Sligo town, originated in 1721 from a grant by Rev. Edward Nicholson of house and lands for an English school with scriptural education. The endowment was supplemented around 1766 by Adam Ormsby, and in 1849 conveyed to the Incorporated Society for promoting English Protestant Schools in Ireland. An agricultural department was abolished around 1860, after which the school focused on mathematical education.

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    On the southern slope of Knocknarea, about four miles from the town of Sligo, is situated Primrose- Grrange Boarding School, an establishment endowed for educational purposes. It originated so far back as 1721, in a grant from the Rev. Edward Nicholson of house and lands for the maintenance of a good English school, combined with a sound scriptural education " according to the principles of the United Church of England and Ireland." The science and practice of agriculture were also to be included in the curriculum. About the year 17(33

    414 HISTOEY OF SLIGO.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 209

    As the companion tells it

    On the slopes of Knocknarea, Primrose Grange Boarding School stood about four miles from Sligo. It began in 1721, when the Reverend Edward Nicholson granted house and lands for a good English school with scriptural education, "according to the principles of the United Church of England and Ireland." Around 1766, Adam Ormsby added to the endowment. In 1849 it passed to the Incorporated Society for promoting English Protestant Schools in Ireland. Agriculture was taught until about 1860, when that department was abolished and the school turned to mathematics.

27. Salt works at Drumcliff and Ballydrihed

    near Drumcliff · parish · Sligo

    Landlords established salt works at Drumcliff and Ballydrihed to create employment for the growing population. Skilled labour had to be imported from the North of Ireland to operate them.

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    About the time of the introduction of the linen industry into Sligo, the landlords seem to have specially exerted themselves in endeavouring to create occupation for the rapidly increasing population. Salt works were established in several localities, notably at Drumcliff and Ballydrihed, but in order to work them skilled labour had to be imported from the North of Ireland. A few smaller but now extinct industries existed in the town of Sligo ; most of these were finally annihilated by the railroad. " Carding " was formerly a very general industry, as was also " brogue " making. The ancient brogue was made of raw hide, rudely stretched, and the primitive pattern continued in use until recent times. Hundreds have been found in bogs, and good specimens of these, together with some of more elaborate finish, are preserved in the Science and Art Museum, Dublin. 1

    Clay smoking pipes were manufactured, also coarse pottery ; there were soap, snuff, tobacco, and candle manufacturers, also

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through the parish of Drumcliff, you are travelling ground where landlords once tried to provide work for a rapidly growing population. Around the time the linen industry was introduced to Sligo, they established salt works here and at Ballydrihed. But the local people lacked the skills to run them, so labour had to be brought in from the North of Ireland. These salt works were part of a wider push to create employment across the area, though many smaller industries in Sligo town itself were later wiped out by the coming of the railway.

28. Sidney's 1566 description of Sligo as a merchant town

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1566

    In 1566, Sir Henry Sidney stated that Sligo had been a great town full of merchants' houses, indicating its former commercial prosperity. The Annals of the Four Masters also record the O'Crean family as prominent merchant figures from the 14th to the 17th century.

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    In 1566 Sir Henry Sidney stated that Sligo " hath been a great town, full of merchants' houses ; " and the " Four Masters " record the death of several members of the O'Creau family, who, from the 14th to the 17th century, appear to have been the " Merchant Princes " of Sligo.*

    ^ " The yearly chardges of the new farmers of his Maj'^^ Customs, for the Kingdome of Ireland for the Officers Stipends settled by Mr. Cogan. And also for chardges of Custom-houses, and Store-houses. An" 1632, w"' ye names of such as have been formerly employed : —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 114

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Sligo now. In 1566 Sir Henry Sidney wrote that Sligo "hath been a great town, full of merchants' houses." The Annals of the Four Masters record the O'Crean family, who from the 14th to the 17th century were the merchant princes of the place. What Sidney saw was a town that had already known richer days.

29. Skreen "family money" tithe claim rejected

    Skreen · parish · Sligo

    Rev. Leslie Battersby, Rector and Vicar of Skreen, claimed an unusual tithe called "family money." The case was tried in Sligo before a judge and special jury, who decided against the claim, sparking a pamphlet controversy with Sir Jonah Barrington.

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    In addition to the tithes proper, others of a very uncommon description were occasionally attempted to be levied, and a most interesting and amusing controversy on this subject — afterwards printed in pamphlet form — arose between Sir Jonah Barringtou and the Eev. Leslie Battersby, Eector and Vicar .of Skreen. Battersby claimed a due styled "family money." The oase was tried in Sligo before a judge and special jury, who decided against the claim.

    For a considerable period from the year 1813 the then Rector of Emlaghfad and one of his rich parishioners — who had several large farms in the parishes which composed the

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 164

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through the parish of Skreen, there was once a quarrel over a tithe called "family money." The Reverend Leslie Battersby, rector and vicar of Skreen, claimed this due, and Sir Jonah Barrington opposed him. The case went to trial in Sligo before a judge and a special jury, who decided against Battersby's claim. The controversy was unusual enough that it was afterwards printed in pamphlet form.

30. Sligo Corporation as a pocket borough, 1722

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1722

    The Borough of Sligo's Corporation, consisting of only twelve life-appointed burgesses, could be dominated by a single family or clique, turning it into a pocket-borough. A crisis occurred on 27 August 1722 when Sir Francis Lycester resigned as burgess and Samuel Burton was elected in his stead under Provost John De Butt.

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    A crisis in the fate of the borough occurred on the 27th August, 1722, when, John De Butt being Provost, Sir Francis Lycester sent in his resignation as burgess, was accordingly disfranchised, and Samuel Burton elected in his stead. In the books of the Corporation the entries with regard to this are as follows : —

    "BoEouGH OF Sligo,

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town here was what they called a pocket borough. Its corporation had only twelve burgesses, all appointed for life, so a single family or clique could control it. On 27 August 1722, with John De Butt as Provost, Sir Francis Lycester resigned as burgess, was disfranchised, and Samuel Burton was elected in his place.

31. Sligo Free Library opened in Town Hall, 1880

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1880

    A Free Library was formally opened on July 30, 1880, in a large ground-floor room of the Town Hall. According to the librarian Mr. D. Saultry, it contained 1800 volumes with an average daily attendance of 100 and annual expenditure of £47.

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    There was great delay in allocating a room for the Free Library, but on July 30, 1880, it was at last formally opened, a large room on the ground-floor being appropriated to this object. According to Mr. D. Saultry (the librarian) it contains 1800 volumes ; the average daily attendance is 100 ; it is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays, and from 2 to 7 p.m. on Sundays. The yearly expenditure is £47 per annum.

    The other rooms are used as: — 1, a Commercial Reading Eoom; 2, the Council Chamber; 3, the Young Men's Christian Association. The rooms in the upper floor are used for the office of the town-clerk ; the mayor's room ; the harbour-office ; also a large assembly room, &c., which can be let for public meetings, concerts, &c. ; the income derived from this source, in some years, amounts to a considerable sum; the Town Hall, however, is itself a dead loss of about £75 a-year.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 74

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town that opened a Free Library on July 30, 1880, in a large ground-floor room of the Town Hall. There had been great delay in allocating a room for it. The librarian, Mr. D. Saultry, said it contained 1800 volumes, with an average daily attendance of 100. It was open from 10 in the morning to 10 at night on weekdays, and from 2 to 7 on Sundays, all for a yearly expenditure of 47 pounds. The rest of the Town Hall housed a commercial reading room, the council chamber, the Young Men's Christian Association, the town-clerk's office, the mayor's room, the harbour office, and a large assembly room that could be let for public meetings and concerts. Despite that rental income, the Town Hall itself ran at a dead loss of about 75 pounds a year.

32. Sligo's direct trade with America

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1769–1771

    Sligo maintained direct trading communication with America in the late eighteenth century. The ship 'The Recovery' of Sligo sailed to Philadelphia in 1769, and the Pitt sailed to Baltimore, Maryland in 1771, carrying transported criminals and trade goods.

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    During the seventeentli century, transportation was a common form of punishment, and transportation to the American Plantations was carried on until the War of Independence. There is given a list of " apprentices " bound to Nicholas Cribb, of Liverpool, " to serve in Virginia, or any other of His Majesty's Plantations abroad." Their ages varied from 12 to 22, and the period of their " apprenticeship " from 5 to 8 years. There is an entry of three men sentenced to transportation at the " general assizes, and gaol-delivery held for the County of Sligo, the third day of April, 1724," and these were " servants " to William Dickson, master of the " Bettzoy " of Dublin, bound for Antigua; whilst in the year 1733, thirteen criminals sentenced to transportation from the Counties of Sligo, Leitrim, and Roscommon, were also shipped to the same locality ; Isaac Smith, " master of the good ship Dolphin," entering into a security of £50 that he would " deliver the above-mentioned persons transported, in Antigua, in the West Indies, the dangers of the sea, and mortality excepted " ! In the year 1736, ten criminals were shipped to Virginia ; in 1737, three boys were sent as "apprentices" to Antigua; and in 1745 three criminals were despatched to Virginia for seven years ; in 1769 four criminals, sentenced to transportation, "were bound to Mr. Charles King, of Sligo, merchant, and John Fife, of the good ship, or snow,^ called 'The Recovery' of Sligo, bound to Philadelphia." At that early date it may thus be seen that Sligo was in direct trading communication with America ; whilst in 1771 two more criminals were "bound to Mr. Alexander Erskine, of Sligo, merchant, and Manus Mac Shane, master of the good ship called the Pitt, bound to Baltimore, in Maryland."

    The Provost and Burgesses looked after the lighting and watching of the town, more especially " when none of the army " were at hand. They also saw that no unlicensed beggars were permitted to ply their trade ; this latter duty fell afterwards to

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 50

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town that once traded directly with America. Transportation was a common punishment, and it was carried on to the American plantations until the War of Independence. There are records of men sentenced to transportation at the general assizes and gaol-delivery held for the County of Sligo on the third day of April, 1724. Three men were made servants to William Dickson, master of the Bettzoy of Dublin, bound for Antigua. In 1733, thirteen criminals sentenced to transportation from the counties of Sligo, Leitrim, and Roscommon were shipped to the same place. Isaac Smith, master of the good ship Dolphin, entered into a security of 50 pounds that he would deliver the above-mentioned persons transported in Antigua, in the West Indies, the dangers of the sea and mortality excepted. In 1736, ten criminals were shipped to Virginia. In 1737, three boys were sent as apprentices to Antigua. In 1745, three criminals were despatched to Virginia for seven years. Then in 1769, four criminals sentenced to transportation were bound to Mr. Charles King of Sligo, merchant, and John Fife, of the good ship, or snow, called The Recovery of Sligo, bound to Philadelphia. At that early date Sligo was in direct trading communication with America. In 1771, two more criminals were bound to Mr. Alexander Erskine of Sligo, merchant, and Manus Mac Shane, master of the good ship called the Pitt, bound to Baltimore, in Maryland.

33. Sligo Soup Ticket medalet for famine relief

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1780–1799

    A brass medalet stamped 'Sligo Soup Ticket' was reputedly struck towards the close of the eighteenth century, when soup-shops were opened under Government auspices to relieve prevalent distress among the poor.

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    In 1750, 1765, 1770, 1779, and 1784, the population suffered severely by placing their dependence on the potato crop ; the most intense pressure being felt in 1765, when the scarcity was so great that a Committee of the House of Commons was appointed to inquire into the best way of averting a famine. A medalet, struck in brass and stamped Sligo Soup Ticket — of which fig. 10 is a representation — is reputed to have been made towards the close of the century, when soup- obverse of Sligo shops were opened under Government to relieve Reverse — h\^n\i, the tlien prevalent distress of the poor. Other " Tickets " differing slightly in lettering have also come under notice.

    Again in 1802, 1812, 1816, 1817, and 1821, the tuber was either deficient or almost wholly destroyed. In 1822 there was a severe famine, and 40,000 persons were said to have been then in actual want. There were also several partial failures of the crop between the years 1823 and 1846,

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 32

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Sligo knew hunger again and again in the closing decades of the eighteenth century. In 1779 and 1784 the population suffered severely when the potato crop failed them. The scarcity had been so great in 1765 that a committee of the House of Commons was appointed to inquire into the best way of averting a famine. Towards the close of the century, soup-shops were opened under Government to relieve the then prevalent distress of the poor. A brass medalet was struck, stamped with the words Sligo Soup Ticket. Other tickets, differing slightly in lettering, have also come under notice. The little piece of brass is a token of how a town fed its poor when the potato failed.

34. Sligo threatened by French approach: property and bleach-yards at risk

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1798

    When the French reached Collooney, the inhabitants of Sligo were in utmost consternation. Sligo contained property worth at least £200,000, several ships in harbour, and twelve well-furnished bleach-yards in its vicinity, defended by only six hundred effective men.

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

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 9

    As the companion tells it

    In 1798, when the French reached Collooney, about six miles from Sligo, the people of Sligo were in the utmost consternation. The town held property worth at least £200,000, several ships in its harbour, and twelve well-furnished bleach-yards in its vicinity. Only 600 effective men were stationed there, and they were ordered to evacuate. But Colonel Vereker, with a detachment of the city of Limerick Militia and a few yeomen, the whole not exceeding 286 men, with two curricle guns, marched out and engaged the French and the rebels, giving them so severe a check.

35. Sligo town lamps ordered then rejected by Vestry in 1785

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1785

    In 1785 the Vestry of St. John's in Sligo ordered that lamps be erected at the directors' discretion, but a fresh public meeting was called with large attendance, and the order was rescinded with a resolution that no lamps were necessary. This reflected the generally poor standard of town lighting alongside the inadequate night watch.

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    The ligliting of the town was quite on a par with the watching ; in 1785 the Yestry of St. John's ordered that " lamps be erected in such places as the directors should think most convenient," but a fresh meeting was summoned at which large numbers attended, and the above order was rescinded, it being " resolved that no lamps were necessary."

    Prior to 1709 the names of few Burgesses can be traced, except those recited in the three charters of Sligo. The members forming the Corporation from circa 1692 to 1709 — the year when the records yet extant commence — appear to have been: — Sir Francis Lj'cester, Arthur Cooper, Benjamin Burton, Ralfe Gore, Percy Gethin, Philip Cox, William Ormsby, William Smith, Arthur Gore, Mitchelburn Knox, Eichard Gore, James Murray. A further list of Burgesses from 1709 to the Municipal Reform Act of 1842 — as far as could be ascertained — may be seen in Appendix (F). The oath of a Burgess on taking office was as follows: —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 51

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Sligo, this is a town that in 1785 could not agree on whether it needed light. The Vestry of St. John's ordered that "lamps be erected in such places as the directors should think most convenient." The lighting of the town was quite on a par with the watching, which is to say both were poor. But the order did not stand. A fresh meeting was summoned, and large numbers attended. The order was rescinded, and it was "resolved that no lamps were necessary." The town would stay dark.

36. Sligo waterworks completed and water turned on

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1881–1884

    After eighteen years of delays, tenders for reservoirs and piping were accepted in 1881. The first water-rate was struck in June 1882, and on 13 November 1884, water was formally turned on from the storage reservoir. The total outlay was under £18,000.

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    The powers of the Bill of 1869 were allowed to lapse, and in 1876, on a petition being presented to the Local Groverumeut Board, they gave the Corporation a provisional order, but discovering that it was ultra vires, they revoked it, and the Council were compelled to procure a short Act of Parliament to revive their powers. Finally, a tender for construction of the reservoirs, &c., for a sum of £14,000, together with another for iron piping, &c., amounting to about £4000, were accepted in 1881, and Mr. "William Cochrane, C.E., was appointed Eesident Engineer. The first water-rate of Is. in the £ was struck, June 28th, 1882 ; and on November 13th, 1884, the waters were formally turned on from the storage reservoir, after the lapse of eighteen years from the period of the first Parliamentary notice of the Borough Improvement Bill (see fig. 35).

    Fig. 35. — Plan of the Storage Eeservoir. By permission of Mr. Hassard, the

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 94

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the town had to wait 18 years for a public water supply. A Bill of 1869 lapsed, a provisional order from the Local Government Board was revoked as ultra vires, and the Corporation had to get a short Act of Parliament to revive their powers. Tenders were finally accepted in 1881, about £14,000 for the reservoirs and around £4,000 for iron piping, with William Cochrane appointed resident engineer. The first water-rate of one shilling in the pound was struck on 28 June 1882. On 13 November 1884 the waters were formally turned on from the storage reservoir. The whole thing cost under £18,000.

37. Special Commission on Sligo corrupt practices at County Court-house

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1869

    A Special Commission appointed to investigate corrupt practices at Sligo's last three elections sat at the County Court-house in Sligo from October to December 1869. The Commission's report led to a bill to disfranchise the Borough and penalties against numerous scheduled individuals.

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

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 30

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town was where a Special Commission sat to investigate corrupt practices at the borough's last three elections. The Commission convened at the County Court-house on the 5th of October, 1869, and closed in December of that year. The inquiry had its origin in an earlier case. Judge Keogh conducted a searching investigation lasting five days, at the end of which he unseated Major Knox, declaring the election void by reason of bribery by his agents. He acquitted Knox personally of knowledge but directed that he pay the costs of the petition. Major Knox later stated that the election and petition cost him nearly £8000. Judge Keogh reported to the House of Commons that he had reason to believe corrupt practices and bribery extensively prevailed at this and previous elections. The House stayed a new writ and ordered a Special Commission to examine the three last elections. D. C. Heron, J. A. Byrne, and W. R. Bruce were appointed as Commissioners to make the inquiry and report. Upon their report and return to the House of Commons, a bill was brought in to disfranchise the Borough of Sligo for the corrupt practices reported. The result was its disfranchisement. A number of celebrities of the day were named in the reports, their names scheduled there.

38. St. John's churchyard soil peculiarities and oldest tomb

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    The churchyard of St. John's in Sligo is said to have soil in which yews will not grow except in imported earth, worms do not burrow, and rats do not frequent. The oldest surviving tomb is that of Sir Roger Jones, and one inscription records a man who died aged 120 years.

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

    " Tho' Boreas' blasts and Neptune's waves

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 67

    As the companion tells it

    In the churchyard of St. John's in Sligo, it is said that yews will not grow in the ground unless the earth is freshly imported. Few worms, if any, burrow there, and rats do not frequent the place. The cause may be something chemical in the soil. Few tombs of any antiquity remain. The oldest surviving one is that of Sir Roger Jones. One inscription records the death of a man, in the words of the source, "who deceased being aged 120 years." Here and there you may be startled by the sight of the word "executed" in bold lettering, but it has nothing to do with how the person died. It is the sculptor advertising himself. A common 18th century marine inscription can be seen on the slab over the last resting place of Captain James Hamilton, who died in 1766.

39. Strafford-era jury finds King's title to Sligo lands

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    Under the terror inspired by Strafford, a jury of named Sligo landholders found the King's title to the lands of the County of Sligo. The jurors included Roger Jones of Sligo, William Crofton of Templehouse, Charles O'Dowd of Cottlestown, Bryan McDonnoge of Coolaney, and others from various townlands across the county.

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    ^ The following are the names of the Jurors who found the King's title to the lands of the County of Sligo, under the terror inspired by Strafford. The list is extracted from the Patent ItoUs, Record Office, Dublin : —

    Roger Jones, of Sligo, Knt. ; William Crofton, of Templehouse, Esq. ; Thomas Crofton, of Longford, Esq. ; Piei'ce M'Dermott, of Ballymullanj-, Ksq. ; John Ridge, of Ballysummaghan, Esq. ; Andrew Crean, of Annagh, Esq.; Charles O'Dowd, of Cottlestown, Esq.; Teige O'Higgins, of Coulererngh, Esq.; Edward Ormsby, of Cloiiegad, Esq.; William Dodwell, of Runnelageta, Esq. ; Bryan M'Donnoge, of Coolaney, Gent.; Kean O'Harah, of Coolaney, Gent.; John M'Donnogh, of Ballindoon, Gent.; Henry Mac Donnogh, of Cloonegaseall, Gent. ; George Dodwell, of Rosscribe, Gent. ; Keadage O'Bennegean, of Cloonelor, Gent. ; Gerrott Baxter, of Learras, Gent.; William Parke, of Downally, Gent.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 156

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo town, you are travelling ground where a jury of local landholders once found the King's title to the lands of County Sligo, under the terror inspired by Strafford. The jurors, named in a patent preserved in the Record Office in Dublin, included Roger Jones of Sligo, William Crofton of Templehouse, Charles O'Dowd of Cottlestown, Bryan McDonnoge of Coolaney, and men from townlands across the county such as Ballysummaghan, Annagh, Ballindoon and Rosscribe. It was a finding made under fear, and the names of those who made it survive.

40. Sligo female school for the poor, 1814

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1814–1821

    A Sligo female school was founded in 1814 for the gratuitous education of poor girls. By the close of 1821 it had provided education for upwards of 700 poor girls, also instructing them in useful employments suited to their station.

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    for young ladies by Mrs. Huston. In 1814 a Sligo female school was founded for the gratuitous education of the poor ; up to the close of 1821 it had been the means of providing education for " upwards of 700 poor girls, and at the same time afforded them instruction in those useful employments suited to their situation in life." There were also a few schools scattered through the country, supported by " The Association for Discountenancing Vice," as also by the " London Hibernian Society." Hedge schools were fairly numerous, and were attended by very young children, who could be of little assistance to their parents at agricultural work ; when more advanced in years they were generally withdrawn from instruction to give help on the farm.

    " The Endowed Schools Commission " of 1855 gave an unfavourable report of the manner in which education was conducted. Calry and Ballinorley schools were satisfactory ; at Dromard, Drum, DrumcUff, Muinanean, Easky, and Killeenduff — the latter founded by Colonel Irwin — there were schools with a fair attendance.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 211

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this town was home to a female school founded in 1814 for the gratuitous education of poor girls. By the close of 1821 it had provided education for upwards of 700 poor girls and at the same time, in the words of the source, afforded them instruction in those useful employments suited to their situation in life. A few other schools were scattered through the country, supported by the Association for Discountenancing Vice and the London Hibernian Society. Hedge schools were fairly numerous too, attended by very young children who could be of little assistance to their parents at agricultural work. When more advanced in years they were generally withdrawn from instruction to give help on the farm. Later, the Endowed Schools Commission of 1855 gave an unfavourable report of how education was conducted, though Calry and Ballinorley schools were found satisfactory.

41. Brewery moved to Water Lane, Sligo

    Water Lane · street · Sligo · 1770

    Increasing business forced the surviving co-partners to relocate from Farm Hill to Water-lane, where more extensive buildings were obtained and a large trade carried on for many years. Lack of space later necessitated a further move across the river.

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    of these breweries originally consisted of ale and table-beer, porter and stout being then unknown in Connaught. The business was first started at Farm Hill, situated near the town, where a small brewery had been built about the year 1770. Increasing business, rendered these premises too small, and a move was made, by the survivors of the original co-partners, to Water-lane, where more extensive buildings were obtained, and a large trade was carried on for many years. Want of space, however, owing to increased business, again necessitated another move to a more eligible site on the opposite side of the river, where the firm secured the buildings that now form the Lough Gill Brewery, and which had been erected by Messrs. Cochrane & Davis upon the site of an old shambles and riding-ring. Around this spacious quadrangle the brewery was built, with its stores, malt-house, &c. ; and these premises were fitted with all the appliances then in vogue.

    The export provision trade in Sligo seems to have commenced about 1750. In January, 1748, " the slaughtering of beef for export, which on all former occasions ceased about Christmas, continued, in consequence of large orders from England for the purpose of ' victualling ' the fleets which, even at this season of the year, were obliged to be on channel service." Sligo, in 1800, was described as "a slaughtering exporting market." Cattle were slaughtered in the " Cadger's Field," on the site now occupied by the artisans' dwellings. There is still a considerable export trade in cattle to England and Scotland. A more curious traffic is that of donkeys, which are often shipped in large droves to England, and are sold in the large cities to costermongers, &c.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 122

    As the companion tells it

    This is the brewery on Water Lane in Sligo. It began at Farm Hill, near the town, where a small brewery was built around 1770. The business made ale and table-beer, for porter and stout were then unknown in Connaught. As trade grew, the premises at Farm Hill became too small. The surviving co-partners of the original firm moved to Water Lane, where more extensive buildings were obtained, and a large trade was carried on for many years. But space ran short again, and the business crossed the river to a more eligible site. There the firm secured buildings that form the Lough Gill Brewery, which had been erected by Messrs. Cochrane and Davis upon the site of an old shambles and riding-ring. Around a spacious quadrangle the brewery was built, with its stores and malt-house, fitted with all the appliances then in vogue. The export provision trade in Sligo seems to have commenced about 1750. In January 1748, the slaughtering of beef for export, which on all former occasions ceased about Christmas, continued in consequence of large orders from England, for the purpose of victualling the fleets which, even at this season, were obliged to be on channel service. Sligo in 1800 was described as "a slaughtering exporting market." Cattle were slaughtered in the Cadger's Field, on the site now occupied by the artisans' dwellings. There is still a considerable export trade in cattle to England and Scotland. A more curious traffic is that of donkeys, shipped in large droves to England, and sold in the large cities to costermongers.

42. Christian Brethren purchased old Union Chapel in Back-lane, Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    The Christian Brethren, sometimes called 'Darbyites' after leader John Darby, purchased the old 'Union Chapel' in Back-lane, Sligo, and renamed it 'The Hall.' Their total numbers in the county were probably under one hundred.

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    The Christian Brethren are represented in Sligo. They have purchased the old " Union Chapel " in *' Backlane," and it is now designated "The Hall." This sect has numbered amongst its adherents some able men — notably, John Darby ; hence, they are sometimes styled " Darbyites." Most of the leaders of this movement have been Irish. Their numbers are not known, and the Census figures may be misleading ; but their total in this county is probably under one hundred. They do not take part in political elections or in municipal matters.

    150 history of sligo.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 72

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Sligo, the Christian Brethren are part of the town's story. They purchased the old Union Chapel in Back-lane and renamed it The Hall. They were sometimes called Darbyites after John Darby, one of their able adherents, and most of the movement's leaders were Irish. Their total numbers in the county were probably under 100, and they took no part in political elections or municipal matters.

43. Confinement of lunatics in Sligo Gaol

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1828–1832

    Dangerous lunatics in Sligo were confined in the county gaol, with thirty held there in February 1831 and twenty-eight the following year. Harmless individuals of unsound mind were left to wander and beg.

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    It is stated that even so late as 1828, the gaol afforded an asylum to lunatics ; in February, 1831, there were thirty thus confined, and twenty-eight in the year following ; in March, 1849, there were only fourteen. Prior to the erection of the present asylum, a few harmless lunatics were kept in a house, the ruins of which may still be seen about two miles from Sligo, on the road to Posses Point.

    According as the system of more modified restraint for the insane developed, in like manner did the need for supplying them with means of occupation become essential, therefore, a further portion of land was purchased, at a cost of £5500, and it is now utilized as a tillage-farm — tlms affording ample employment, or rather recreation to the inmates of the asylum. The farm is self-supporting, and supplies the requirements of the establishment in potatoes, vegetables, milk, &c. ; the net profit averages £550 per annum ; for 1888, it was nearly £740 ;

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Sligo, you pass a town where, even as late as 1828, the county gaol served as an asylum for lunatics. In February 1831, thirty people of unsound mind were confined there. The following year, twenty-eight. By March 1849, there were only fourteen. Harmless lunatics were left to wander and beg. A few had been kept in a house on the road to Posses Point, before the present asylum was built. The ruins of that house were still to be seen. As the system of more modified restraint for the insane developed, the need to supply them with means of occupation became essential. A further portion of land was purchased at a cost of £5500 and is now used as a tillage farm, affording employment and recreation to the asylum inmates. The farm is self-supporting, supplying the establishment with potatoes, vegetables, and milk. The net profit averages £550 per year. For 1888, it was nearly £740.

44. Cursing and healing stones on Inishmurray altars

    Inishmurray · townland · Sligo

    Numerous globular, curiously-wrought stones were found on the altars of Clocha-breacha, Altoir Beg, and the eastern altar within the cashel on Inishmurray island. Petrie noted that such stones were believed to possess miraculous healing properties and were used for swearing and as maledictory stones.

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    On the altar of Clocha-hreachn, on that of Altoir beg, as also on the Eastern aifoir within the cashel on the island of Inismurray, are numerous globular and curiously- wrought stones. Petrie remarked that stones of this class were believed to be possessed of miraculous properties for healing sicknesses, and were used for swearing on, and also as maledictory stones. On this subject W. F. Wakeman writes : — " We know that

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 181

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Inishmurray, on the altars of Clocha-breacha, Altoir Beg, and the eastern altar within the cashel, numerous globular and curiously-wrought stones were found. Petrie remarked that stones of this class were believed to possess miraculous properties for healing sicknesses. They were also used for swearing on, and as maledictory stones — stones for cursing.

45. Emigration by steamer from Sligo quay

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    Emigration set in again in full force, with one steamer alone carrying off upwards of 100 persons from the quay bound for the far West. The author attributes the great diminution of County Sligo's population primarily to emigration rather than to death by famine, fever, or pestilence.

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    Emigration set in again in full force — one steamer alone carried off from the quay upwards of 100 persons bound for " the far West." To account for the present great diminution of the population a cause must be sought other than the ordinary deathrate or the thinning of the number of inhabitants by famine, fever, or pestilence. This cause is clearly to be traced to emigration. The population in the County Sligo, according to the Census of 1659, was 6877 ; the barony of Carbury contained 1398 souls ; Tireragh,a total of 1495 ; Tirerrill, 1389 ; Corran, 1107 ; Leyny, 1181 ; the half barony of Coolavin, 307. Even from the scant population of the 18th century there was a slight but steady exodus. In 1778, Arthur Young states, " there were some emigrations to America, but not considerable ; some of

    88

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo is the town your road passes through. Emigration from here set in again in full force. One steamer alone carried off from the quay upwards of 100 persons bound for, in the source's words, "the far West." The author of this history argues that County Sligo's great loss of population must be traced to emigration, not to death by famine, fever, or pestilence. The Census of 1659 counted 6877 people across the county: Carbury 1398, Tireragh 1495, Tirerrill 1389, Corran 1107, Leyny 1181, and the half barony of Coolavin 307. Even from that scant 18th-century population there was a slight but steady exodus. Arthur Young noted in 1778 that there were some emigrations to America, but not considerable.

46. Fatal coach accidents on Sligo routes, 1831–1836

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1831–1836

    The Sligo coach was upset on August 3, 1831, slightly injuring Mr. Peter O'Connor, and again in February 1836 when several lives were lost, with another similar casualty in April. These recurring accidents underscored the peril of coach travel.

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    In those days, travelling by coach appears to have been attended with greater risk than by rail in the present, as demonstrated by a few extracts from newspapers : — *' On Tuesday evening (January 8, 1828), the Sligo mail-coach was upset." On 1st January of the following year, " in consequence of the flooded state of the road between Sligo and Boyle (in some places to the depth of five feet), notice was given that the Dublin mail would start every morning at 11 o'clock to make up for the time lost in taking a circuitous route." In the newspaper issue of February 4, 1831, when making excuse for the paucity of news from the Metropolis, it was stated that owing to the heavy falls of snow four mails remained due up to the hour of going to press. On August 3rd, 1831, the coach was upset; amongst others, "Mr. Peter O'Connor slightly hurt." In February, 1836, the coach was again upset, and several lives lost, whilst in April a similar casualty occurred, &c. &c. In the year 1833 it was announced that the fare to Dublin was reduced to thirty shillings !

    In 1849, Mr. Biauconi purchased up the interests of the other proprietors, and became sole possessor of the vehicular traffic to Sligo. In 1832 he had commenced running a car from Longford to Sligo, in connexion with the canal boat. In 1852 he put cars on the Strabane, Enniskillen, and Westport lines from Sligo, with branch-cars to several small towns in the north and west. In March, 1867, Mr. John Walsh, of Sligo, purchased from him "The Sligo and Enniskillen," " The Sligo and Ballyshannon," " The Sligo and Westport," " The Ballina

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 105

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up on Sligo, the town the road passes through. In the 1830s, travel by coach through here carried real danger. One Tuesday evening the Sligo mail-coach was upset. On the 1st of January of the following year, the road between Sligo and Boyle was flooded in places to a depth of five feet, and notice was given that the Dublin mail would start every morning at 11 o'clock to make up for time lost taking a circuitous route. On February 4, 1831, heavy falls of snow meant four mails remained due at the hour of going to press. On August 3, 1831, the coach was upset again, and Mr. Peter O'Connor was slightly hurt. In February 1836 the coach was upset once more, and several lives were lost. In April a similar casualty occurred. In 1833 the fare to Dublin was reduced to thirty shillings. In 1832 Mr. Bianconi commenced running a car from Longford to Sligo, in connexion with the canal boat. In 1849 he purchased the interests of the other proprietors and became sole possessor of the vehicular traffic to Sligo. In 1852 he put cars on the Strabane, Enniskillen, and Westport lines from Sligo, with branch-cars to several small towns in the north and west. In March 1867, Mr. John Walsh of Sligo purchased from him the Sligo and Enniskillen, the Sligo and Ballyshannon, the Sligo and Westport, and the Ballina lines.

47. Flowerhill name preserves leper hospital tradition

    Flowerhill · street · Sligo

    Flowerhill in the parish of Cloonoghill, Sligo, derives its name from the Irish 'Cnoc ' lohhair,' meaning hill of the leper. P. W. Joyce noted this transformation hides the original meaning and suggests a leper hospital may have existed there.

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    In the early ages leprosy was by no means a rare disease in Ireland ; it is stated that on more than one occasion it broke out as a regular epidemic, and leper hospitals were established in various localities. " There is a place in the parish of Cloonoghill in Sligo " remarks P. W. Joyce, " called Flowerhill, which is a strange transformation of the proper Irish name Cnoc «' lohhair, hill of the leper. This change, which was made by translating cnoc to hill, and by turning lohhair (lour) to floiver, totally hides the meaning. It is to be observed that the fact of lohhair being singular in a name does not exclude the supposition of a leper hospital."

    It was in the year 1433 that occurred the season designated " the summer of the slight acquaintance," for no one would recognize either friend or acquaintance on account of the soreness of the famiue. There was scarcity of food in 1497, so that great numbers died, and the survivors had but the vilest of garbage on which to support life ; whilst in 1545 " sixpence of the old money was paid for the loaf in Connaught ;" and in 1 682 there was another season of dearth.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    This is Flowerhill, in the parish of Cloonoghill, Sligo. The name carries a memory that its English form hides. In the early ages, leprosy was by no means a rare disease in Ireland. It is stated that on more than one occasion it broke out as a regular epidemic, and leper hospitals were established in various localities. P. W. Joyce remarked that Flowerhill is "a strange transformation of the proper Irish name Cnac 'lohhair, hill of the leper." The change was made by translating cnoc to hill, and by turning lohhair, or lour, to flower, which totally hides the meaning. Joyce observed that the fact of lohhair being singular in a name does not exclude the supposition of a leper hospital. A name that sounds like nothing more than a hill of blooms may preserve the memory of a place where people with leprosy were once sheltered or set apart.

48. French abandon cannon near Collooney and Dromahair

    Dromahair · town · Leitrim · 1798

    Hard pressed by pursuing light dragoons, the French left two pieces of cannon on the road about a mile from Collooney and threw five more into the river at Dromahair. Dead and dying men were found along the road.

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    Numbers of dead or dying men were found along the road, having been killed by the corps of light dragoons, who formed the reconnoitering party ; and the French had been so hard pressed in the pursuit that, about a mile from Collooney, they left on the road two pieces of cannon, and threw five more into the river at Drumahaire. On the night of the 7th of September, General Lake encamped at Ballintogher, between Drumahaire and Collooney, and on the 8th the surrender of the French at Ballynamuck^ ended the actual warfare.

    General Lake received in Collooney some curious particulars relative to the French troops, it being stated that their officers declared themselves to have been grossly deceived : " they had expected to be joined by the whole power of the country, i. e. by an organized and disciplined army, who only required to be put in motion to ensure success. Instead of this, they found only a barbarous undisciplined mob, the refuse of the country, unfit for action, and incapable of order ; ferocious towards their allies, and discordant amongst themselves."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    Dromahair in Leitrim sits along the route the French took in 1798, fleeing the light dragoons who harried them through this country. Dead and dying men were found along the road, killed by the corps of light dragoons who formed the reconnoitering party. The French had been so hard pressed in the pursuit that about a mile from Collooney they left two pieces of cannon on the road, and threw five more into the river at Dromahair. On the night of the 7th of September, General Lake encamped at Ballintogher, between Dromahair and Collooney, and on the 8th the surrender of the French at Ballynamuck ended the actual warfare. General Lake received in Collooney some curious particulars about the French troops. Their officers declared themselves to have been grossly deceived. They had expected to be joined by the whole power of the country, by an organized and disciplined army who only required to be put in motion to ensure success. Instead they found, in their own words, "a barbarous undisciplined mob, the refuse of the country, unfit for action, and incapable of order; ferocious towards their allies, and discordant amongst themselves."

49. Gentlemen besieged in their residences, Sligo, 1792

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1792

    In 1792, according to the evidence of Colonel Irwin, several gentlemen in County Sligo were actually besieged in their own residences until they were relieved by the military. This agitation culminated in the rebellion of 1798.

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    In 1792 several gentlemen — according to the evidence of Colonel Irwin — were actually besieged in their residences until relieved by the military. This agitation culminated in the rebellion of 1798.

    A gentleman, writing on the 17th May, 1797, to a friend in England, says : —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 162

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is a town touched by the unrest that built toward the rebellion of 1798. Colonel Irwin gave evidence that in 1792 several gentlemen were besieged in their own residences here until the military came to relieve them.

50. James Wood's livestock requisition claim, Sligo 1799

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1799

    In November 1799, James Wood of Leekheld claimed compensation for eight fat cows he drove from Mr. Browne's park under orders from General Lake, using some for the army while others were taken by the army. He withdrew part of the claim after Mr. Scott, the owner, filed his own claim for the cows (£72).

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    " Sligo, Thursday, Nov"', the 28th, 1799. Read, the claim of James Wood, Esq., of Leekheld, and E.v^'. him on oath. Swears he claimed for eight fatt cowes, which he drove from off a park of Mr. Browne, in pursuance of an order from (jeiieral Lake : he made use of some for the army, and the others were taken by the army. He claimed because the owner, Mr. Scott, threatened to sue him for them. Mr. Scott has been all'', in his claim for these cows (£72), so he dont now claim for them."

    428 APPENDIX.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 214

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this town carries a quiet record from November 1799. James Wood of Leekheld swore he had driven eight fat cows off a park of Mr. Browne under orders from General Lake. He used some for the army, and the rest were taken by the army. He filed a claim because the owner, Mr. Scott, threatened to sue him. Scott then filed his own claim for the cows at 72 pounds, so Wood withdrew that part of his claim.

51. Latin inscription at Longford House linking Croftons and Irwins

    Longford · town · Longford

    A Latin inscription over the entrance of the old house of Longford describes it as 'the safe retreat of John Henry (Crofton) and his yellow-haired Fox,' likely referring to a marriage between the Crofton and Irwin families who were close neighbours.

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    ' This sobriquet of "The Fox" may perhaps throw light on the Latin inscription over the entrance of the old house of Longford {vide ante, Book L p. 116), to the effect that it was " the safe retreat of .John Henry (Crofton) and his yellow-haired Fox"; and as the Croftons and the Irwins resided in close neighbourhood, what more likely than that the Crofton above alluded to had married a Miss Irwin.

    The following statement of the doctrine of image- worship may be observed in the quaint little chapel, situated in the grounds of Longford,

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Longford holds an old house with a Latin inscription over its entrance. It calls the house "the safe retreat of John Henry Crofton and his yellow-haired Fox." The Fox was a sobriquet, and since the Crofton and Irwin families lived as close neighbours, the likely meaning is that John Henry Crofton married a Miss Irwin. There is also a small chapel in the grounds of Longford.

52. New horse, pig and poultry fairs established in Sligo, 1890

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1890

    In May 1890 a yearly horse fair was established in Sligo, and in September the Corporation instituted a weekly pig fair every Thursday and a pork and fowl market every Friday for the first time.

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    In May, 1890, a yearly horse fair was established in Sligo, and in September of the same year the Corporation for the first time instituted a weekly pig fair on every Thursday, and a pork and fowl market on every Friday.

    In olden days mills were erected on almost every property, and tenants were compelled to bring their corn to be ground there. Tlie first mention to be found of a mill in the county occurs in 1463, when Muilenn-Adam or Adam's mill is mentioned, as also in 1551 ; but mills in Ireland were long antece-

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 120

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the town's market history is worth noting. In May 1890 a yearly horse fair was established here, and that September the Corporation instituted a weekly pig fair every Thursday and a pork and fowl market every Friday, both for the first time.

53. Patron day at St. Attracta's well, Kilturra, abolished

    Kilturra · townland · Sligo

    An annual 'patron' was held on August 11th at St. Attracta's well in Kilturra, drawing attendees from Mayo and Roscommon. It was abolished around 1776 after a faction fight resulted in a man's death near the priest's residence.

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    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.

    Fig. 59.— Cross at Kilturra.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 187

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Saint Attracta's well, where a patron was held each year on the 11th of August. People came from Mayo and Roscommon, it being on the borders of the county. The patron was abolished about 1776. A faction fight broke out at the close of one gathering, and a man was killed close to the priest's residence. The priest then interdicted the annual gathering.

54. Post-war agricultural distress in County Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1815–1816

    After the Continental war ended, prices for agricultural produce in County Sligo fell by more than half, causing great distress among the agricultural population. Barley dropped from 1s. 8d. per stone in 1815 to 8d. the following year, and stock, pigs, potatoes, oats, and oatmeal all lost significant value.

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    Immediately after the Continental war, prices fell more than one-half, which occasioned great distress amongst the agricultural population. For instance, barley, which in 1815 sold for l.s, 8d. per stone, fell to 8f^. in the following year. A contemporaneous observer in the County Sligo, alluding to this period of depression, stated that the "golden age" ceased with the war, and peace, which at other times and in other countries was esteemed one of the greatest blessings, came to be considered by the people the greatest evil that could befal them, and it made them wish for another fierce and protracted contest. Stock of all kinds fell one-third at least in price, and pigs one-half ; potatoes and oats lost about the same proportion of their value, as well as oatmeal, on which articles depended the payment of their rents and the support of their families.

    The early marriages of the lower class of the inhabitants caused great increase of their numbers. The young women were generally married between the ages of fifteen and twenty, and the men from twenty and upwards. The portion usually given with girls was from £10 to £50, the young men having generally small holdings of laud to begiu tho world

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 171

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town sits along this road, and the land around it tells a hard story from after the Continental war. When peace came in 1815, prices for farm produce across County Sligo fell by more than half, bringing great distress to the agricultural population. Barley that had sold for 1 shilling and 8 pence per stone in 1815 dropped to 8 pence the very next year. Stock of all kinds lost at least a third of their price, and pigs lost half. Potatoes, oats, and oatmeal fell by roughly the same proportion, and these were the very articles on which families depended to pay their rents and feed themselves. A writer of the time said the golden age ceased with the war, and peace, which other countries counted a blessing, was considered by the people here the greatest evil that could befall them. It even made them wish for another fierce and protracted contest. Early marriages among the lower classes had swollen their numbers, with young women generally married between 15 and 20 and men from 20 upwards. A girl's portion was usually between £10 and £50, and the young men generally had small holdings of land to begin the world.

55. Quarantine enforced at Sligo port against cholera

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1831

    In autumn 1831, quarantine regulations were enforced at the port of Sligo against ships from foreign parts, as authorities grew alarmed by the slow but sure advance of Asiatic cholera toward Ireland.

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    In the autumn of that year quarantine regulations were enforced in the port against ships from foreign parts, and alarmed by the accounts of the slow but sure advance of the Asiatic cholera, the vestry of St. John's, on the 22nd November, voted the sum of £200 to be expended for sanitary purposes, and officers of health were appointed. Sligo was indeed ripe for an attack of the epidemic. There were but a few short sewers in the town, and they all discharged into the river, the water of which was used by the inhabitants for drinking and culinary

    PESTILENCE, FAMINE, E^NIIGRATION, AND POrill.ATION. 73

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Sligo, this is a town that braced itself for cholera in the autumn of 1831. Quarantine regulations were enforced at the port against ships from foreign parts as the Asiatic cholera advanced slowly but surely toward Ireland. On the 22nd of November the vestry of St. John's voted £200 for sanitary purposes and appointed officers of health. Sligo was ripe for an epidemic. There were only a few short sewers in the town, all discharging into the river, and the inhabitants used that same water for drinking and cooking.

56. Shanbally old village site on Coney Island

    Shanbally · townland · Clare

    Shanbally, meaning old village, is a sheltered hollow in the centre of Coney Island where archaeological traces survive. The plough still turns up charcoal, pavement fragments of streets, and house foundations from the former settlement.

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    sive and magnificent prospect. Tradition points to the earliest settlement in the island having been at the locality styled Pollnamaddow. In comparatively recent times the " seat of empire " was removed to the centre of the island, to a sheltered hollow styled Shanbally {i.e. old village), where the plough still turns up quantities of charcoal, the pavements of " streets," or the foundations of houses. About 150 years ago the inhabitants, following as usual the channel of trade, emigrated to the eastern shore, where the village now exists. During the year of the famine a road, which was originally intended to go round the island, was commenced, but never completed.

    At low water, during spring tides, the rocky ledge from the lighthouse to the island is so far uncovered as to enable communication to be carried on dryshod between it and the land. It is probably somewhere in this locality that the galleon of the Spanish Armada was wrecked, after having been repaired in Sligo ; for it is stated that antique silver ornaments, «S;c., of sixteenth centuiy workmanship were to be seen in houses at Bosses Point and on Coney Island. Numerous wrecks also have occurred on the island.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 112

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Shanbally, a name that means old village. It sits in a sheltered hollow in the centre of Coney Island. Tradition says the earliest settlement on the island was at a place called Poll-namaddow, but in more recent times the settlement moved to this central hollow. The plough still turns up quantities of charcoal, the pavements of what the old record calls streets, and the foundations of houses. About 150 years ago the inhabitants left, following the channel of trade, and emigrated to the eastern shore, where the village now stands. During the year of the famine, a road was commenced, meant to go round the island, but it was never finished. At low water during spring tides, a rocky ledge from the lighthouse to the island is uncovered enough to let people cross dry-shod between island and land. It is probably somewhere in this locality that a galleon of the Spanish Armada was wrecked, after being repaired in Sligo. Antique silver ornaments of sixteenth century workmanship were to be seen in houses at Bosses Point and on Coney Island. Numerous wrecks have occurred on the island.

57. Shipwreck off the Tireragh coast provoking a fatal quarrel

    Tireragh · barony · Sligo

    The immediate cause of the 1815 Fenton–Hillas duel was a disagreement over the circumstances of a vessel wrecked off the Tireragh coast. Remarks made by Major Hillas about the wreck gave offence to Mr. Fenton, leading to the fatal encounter.

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    shots without any effect, and were afterwards reconciled." In short all classes appeared to be devoted to tliis mode of settling differences. Gentlemen who had been intimate acquaintances often so met without any sufficient cause but on what then seemed to be a point that touched their honour ; whilst amongst the peasantry there was nothing so thoroughly appreciated as a public duel ; and in 1815 the memorable meeting between Mr. Fenton and Major Hillas took place in presence of an assembled mob. The quarrel was aggravated by political antipathies, but its immediate cause arose from a dissension with regard to the circumstances of the wreck of a vessel off the Tireragh coast, when some remarks made by Major Hillas gave offence to Mr. Fenton.

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 159

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Tireragh in Sligo, this is the barony where a fatal quarrel began over a shipwreck. In 1815, a vessel was wrecked off the Tireragh coast. What exactly was said about the circumstances of that wreck is not recorded, but Major Hillas made some remarks about it, and those remarks gave deep offence to Mr. Fenton. Political antipathies between the two men aggravated the quarrel, but the immediate cause was the disagreement over the wreck. They met on duelling ground at Kilmacowen, before an assembled crowd. Major Hillas wore a full suit of mourning. He was morally brave enough to speak to the crowd. He said, "I am sorry that the mistaken laws of honour oblige me to come here and defend myself; and I declare to God I have no animosity to man or woman on the face of the earth." Hillas fell dead at the first fire. Mr. Fenton was tried at the next assizes in Sligo and acquitted. In those duelling days such a trial was a mere matter of form, provided judge and jury were satisfied that everything had been conducted according to the prescribed rules.

58. Sligo appoints sweeper and scavenger, 1727

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1727

    In December 1727 the Provost and Burgesses of Sligo borough found that a sweeper ('Ballower') and scavenger were much wanting and ordered six pounds sterling for each to be levied off the borough. The term 'Ballower' is derived from the French word 'balayeur'.

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    " "We the Provost and Burgesses of the said Borough assembled together do find that there is a Ballower [this term is evidently derived from the rreiich word balayeiir, i. e. a sweeper] and scavenger much wanting in the said Borough. "We do therefore order and present the sum, six pounds sterling for each, be applotted and levied off the said Borough at large, to furnish the said Borough with a Ballower and scavenger," &c.

    On 14th November, 1737, the order was again re-enacted : householders " to sweep the streets to the middle of the crowncauseway opposite their houses," all manure put out to be removed at once ; in default, the persons were liable to a fine not exceeding 2.s. 6;/. for each offence.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 103

    As the companion tells it

    In the town of Sligo, in December 1727, the Provost and Burgesses of the borough found that a sweeper and a scavenger were much wanting. They ordered six pounds sterling for each to be levied off the borough at large. The word they used for the sweeper was "Ballower," derived from the French "balayeur." Ten years later, on the 14th of November 1737, the order was re-enacted. Householders were to sweep the streets to the middle of the crown causeway opposite their houses. Any manure put out was to be removed at once. Those who failed were liable to a fine not exceeding 2 shillings and 6 pence for each offence.

59. Sligo mail-coach upset, January 1828

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1828

    The Sligo mail-coach was upset on Tuesday evening, January 8, 1828, illustrating the dangers of coach travel in the era before railways. Such accidents were recurrent on the Sligo routes.

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    In those days, travelling by coach appears to have been attended with greater risk than by rail in the present, as demonstrated by a few extracts from newspapers : — *' On Tuesday evening (January 8, 1828), the Sligo mail-coach was upset." On 1st January of the following year, " in consequence of the flooded state of the road between Sligo and Boyle (in some places to the depth of five feet), notice was given that the Dublin mail would start every morning at 11 o'clock to make up for the time lost in taking a circuitous route." In the newspaper issue of February 4, 1831, when making excuse for the paucity of news from the Metropolis, it was stated that owing to the heavy falls of snow four mails remained due up to the hour of going to press. On August 3rd, 1831, the coach was upset; amongst others, "Mr. Peter O'Connor slightly hurt." In February, 1836, the coach was again upset, and several lives lost, whilst in April a similar casualty occurred, &c. &c. In the year 1833 it was announced that the fare to Dublin was reduced to thirty shillings !

    In 1849, Mr. Biauconi purchased up the interests of the other proprietors, and became sole possessor of the vehicular traffic to Sligo. In 1832 he had commenced running a car from Longford to Sligo, in connexion with the canal boat. In 1852 he put cars on the Strabane, Enniskillen, and Westport lines from Sligo, with branch-cars to several small towns in the north and west. In March, 1867, Mr. John Walsh, of Sligo, purchased from him "The Sligo and Enniskillen," " The Sligo and Ballyshannon," " The Sligo and Westport," " The Ballina

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 105

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Sligo, this was a town where the mail-coaches had a hard time of it. On Tuesday evening, January 8, 1828, the Sligo mail-coach was upset, one of those accidents that made coach travel riskier than the railway journeys that came later. The roads gave trouble again and again. On January 1 of the following year, flooding between Sligo and Boyle reached five feet in places, and the Dublin mail had to start at 11 o'clock each morning to allow for a circuitous route. In February 1836 the coach upset again and several lives were lost, and in April another similar casualty followed. In August 1831 the coach upset and Mr. Peter O'Connor was slightly hurt. Heavy snow in February 1831 left four mails due from the Metropolis at the time of going to press. In 1833 the fare to Dublin was reduced to thirty shillings. In 1849 Mr. Bianconi bought out the other proprietors and became sole possessor of vehicular traffic to Sligo, having started a car from Longford to Sligo in 1832 in connection with the canal boat.

60. Sligo Savings Bank reopens after closure, 1823

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1823

    The Sligo Savings Bank, established for the benefit of the working classes, was found in June 1823 to have been closed for some time due to lack of funds to pay a clerk. It was re-opened shortly afterwards, meeting at a room adjoining the Excise Office.

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    Savings' Banks were established in Ireland in 1810, and the first of which a record has been found was " The Savings' Bank " for the benefit of the working-classes. The yearly accounts were published in the newspapers, and the directors would seem to have been gentlemen of local position. In June, 1823, its state does not appear to have been flourishing, as it was alleged " that the Savings' Bank had not been open for some time. Upon inquiry as to the cause it was stated that there was no fund applicable for the payment of a clerk to keep

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    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo had a savings bank set up for the benefit of the working classes. Savings banks in Ireland began in 1810, and this one published its yearly accounts in the newspapers, with directors who were gentlemen of local position. By June 1823 it was not flourishing. It had been closed for some time, and when people asked why, the answer was that there was no fund to pay a clerk. It reopened shortly afterwards, meeting in a room adjoining the Excise Office.