Name: History of Sligo, county and town, from the close of the Revolution of 1688 to the present time
Author: W. G. (William Gregory) Wood-Martin (1847–1917)

Sligo wells analyzed and condemned for hardness and pollution

Sligo · town · Sligo

Mr. Bamber's analysis for the House of Commons found Albert-street and Lungy pumps unfit, Pound-street pump recommended for immediate closure, and George's-street pump equally bad. Kilsellagh and Doonally water was pronounced very good as a new supply.

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The substances included by Mr. Bamber in inorganic matter were, carbonate of lime, sulphate of lime, carbonate and sulphate of magnesia, common salt, &c. ; the substances included in organic and other volatile matter were, vegetable and animal matter, ammonia, and some of the nitrates. The Albert-street and Lungy pumps were pronounced unfit for use, from hardness and organic matter, &c. ; Pound-street pump was recommended to be immediately closed. Greorge's-street pump was as bad, whilst three samples from other wells were not even analyzed, " as their appearance self-condemned them " ; Kilsellagh and Doonally water was stated to be very good.
According to the Sligo Borough Improvement Bill of 1869, the Corporation were authorized to borrow £25,000 for the purpose of constructing waterworks ; and on September 1st of that year, were taken the first steps towards raising the money necessary for carrying out the scheme : the eJBPort, however, collapsed, and after a general meeting of the ratepayers had decided against proceeding with the waterworks, the matter although then set aside, was, nevertheless, from time to time,

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 93

As the companion tells it

Sligo town had a water problem. Mr. Bamber analysed the wells here for the House of Commons and found most of them unfit. The Albert-street and Lungy pumps were pronounced unfit for use, from hardness and organic matter. The Pound-street pump was recommended to be immediately closed, and George's-street pump was as bad. Three samples from other wells were not even analyzed, as their appearance, in the words of the report, self-condemned them. Only Kilsellagh and Doonally water was stated to be very good, offered as a new supply. In 1869 the Sligo Borough Improvement Bill authorized the Corporation to borrow 25,000 pounds for constructing waterworks, and on September 1st of that year the first steps were taken toward raising the money. The effort collapsed. A general meeting of the ratepayers decided against proceeding, and the matter was set aside, though from time to time it came up again.

Tireragh barony hounds and the sporting clergyman

Tireragh · barony · Sligo · 1700–1892

The hounds of the Barony of Tireragh were well known to the sporting community and were kept by various individuals, including a clergyman with a peculiar aptitude for training horses and dogs. An amusing anecdote tells of the Bishop mistaking the clergyman's hunting dogs for property he could disapprove of.

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The hounds in the Barony of Tireragh were long well-known to the sporting community ; they were kept by various individuals— at one time by a clergyman who took extreme pleasure in field-sports, and possessed a peculiar aptitude for training and attaching to himself horses and dogs. Some amusing anecdotes have been told about him.
The Bishop, when visiting the parishes in his diocese, amongst other places, arrived at the residence of this clergyman, where he was hospitably entertained. The Bishop asked his host if there was a " terrier" at the glebe : it may be well to explain that " terrier " is the legal and technical term applied

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 196

As the companion tells it

The hounds of Tireragh were long known to the sporting community. They were kept by various individuals, at one time by a clergyman who took extreme pleasure in field sports and had a peculiar aptitude for training and attaching to himself horses and dogs. Some amusing anecdotes were told about him. The Bishop, visiting parishes in his diocese, arrived at this clergyman's residence and was hospitably entertained. The Bishop asked his host if there was a "terrier" at the glebe. The word "terrier" is a legal and technical term applied to a kind of register, not the dog. The clergyman, being a sporting man, would have had a very different sort of terrier in mind.

Tireragh ditches with apple trees

Tireragh · barony · Sligo

Old field boundaries in the barony of Tireragh were noted for their gigantic ditches with double or triple rows of whitethorns interspersed with ash, alder, oak, and uniquely, apple trees, a distinctive local feature of the agricultural landscape.

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In the last century the fields were in general small, those in the occupation of gentlemen being of larger size and fenced according to the locality, either with stone walls or ditches ; stone walls might be said to predominate, as they served the double purpose of clearing the land and of enclosing it Some of the old ditches were of gigantic size, having, very generally a double, sometimes even a triple, row of whitethorns, with which were interspersed plants of ash, alder, oak, and (in Tireragh) apple-trees.
In the commencement of the present century, M'Parlan states that it was in the mountains and bogs the greatest part of any draining effected could be seen. He describes the county as containing every possible variety of pasture, sour, sweet, light, heavy ; some fit only for rabbits and kids, some for the heaviest cows and oxen. Coolaviji, wliero there was, and still is, a vast deal of sour mountain pasture, contained aUo some of the richest feeding ground in Ireland ; but the main portion of this area — consisting of the baronies of Leyuy,

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 147

As the companion tells it

As the road takes you through the barony of Tireragh in Sligo, you are passing through a landscape once marked by its field boundaries. In the last century the fields here were in general small. Gentlemen held larger ones, fenced according to the locality with stone walls or ditches. Stone walls predominated, as they served the double purpose of clearing the land and enclosing it. But it is the old ditches that set Tireragh apart. Some of them were of gigantic size. They carried, very generally, a double row of whitethorns, and sometimes even a triple row. Growing among the whitethorns were plants of ash, alder, and oak, and in Tireragh alone, apple trees. That was the distinctive thing. These were living boundaries, thick and tall, a mix of thorn and timber and fruit. At the commencement of the present century, M'Parlan wrote that the greatest part of any draining in the county could be seen in the mountains and bogs. He described Sligo as containing every possible variety of pasture, sour, sweet, light, heavy, some fit only for rabbits and kids, some for the heaviest cows and oxen.

Trial and conviction of Sligo election officials for conspiracy (1858)

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1858

At the Spring Assizes of 1858, all officials implicated in the Sligo election malpractices were tried for conspiracy to procure the return of Somers by unlawful means. They were found guilty and sentenced to various terms of imprisonment, with a heavy fine in one case; the sentences were confirmed on appeal.

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

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 28

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Sligo, this town was the scene of a notable trial. At the Spring Assizes of 1858, all the officials implicated in election malpractices were tried on a charge of conspiracy to procure by unlawful means the return of John Patrick Somers. After a most careful investigation, they were found guilty.

Weeping spectre on Knocknarea

near Knocknarea · mountain or mountain range · Sligo

A legend attached to Knocknarea involves an officer who, caught in a dense fog on the summit of the Misgaun, encountered a weeping female figure wringing her hands in distress.

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The legend attached to Knocknarea can be best explained by relating the adventure, if it may so be termed, which more than half a century ago befel an oflicer then quartered in Sligo. Desirous of ascending the mountain he started on a day which promised to be favourable, but scarcely had he reached the summit of the Misgaun, when a fog set in so rapidly, and of a nature so dense, that the greatest caution was needful in attempting the descent. Whilst wandering downward with slow and cautious steps, he observed through the mist a female figure weeping and wringing her hands as if in great distress. Under the impression that it was a lady who had (like himself) lost her way in the fog, he advanced towards her to offer aid, but at his approach, she

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 192

As the companion tells it

Knocknarea rises ahead of you near Sligo, and the mountain carries a legend told in the History of Sligo. More than half a century before that book was written, an officer stationed in Sligo set out to climb the mountain on a day that seemed fair. He had barely reached the summit of the Misgaun when a fog closed in so thick and so fast that he had to pick his way down with great care. As he went, he saw through the mist a female figure weeping and wringing her hands as if in distress. Thinking it was a lady who, like himself, had lost her way, he moved towards her to offer help, but at his approach she… and the record leaves off there, so what she did, or what she was, the book does not finish telling. The summit kept whatever happened to itself.

Wesley's fourteenth and last visit to Sligo, May 1789

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1789

On 20 May 1789 John Wesley paid his fourteenth and last visit to Sligo, and was entertained in the barracks by the Quartermaster of the 1st Dragoons. Around this time Gideon Ouseley settled in the town.

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In May, 1758, Wesley paid his first visit to Sligo, riding from Drumsna through Ballymote, Collooney, and Ballysadare. The prospect was so encouraging that arrangements were made for regular visits by the minister stationed in Castlehar. On May 16th, 1760, Wesley again visited the town and found the congregation so much increased in number that he saw the need of providing a comfortable place wherein to hold the services ; accordingly a large and commodious apartment was procured. In 1775 the first Methodist Chapel was erected in "Bridge-street ;" it was small, and had an exceedingly low, thatched roof. By this time, however, the town had become the head of a Circuit, provided with two ministers. On May 20th, 1789, Wesley paid his fourteenth and last visit to Sligo, and was entertained in the barracks by the then Quartermaster of the 1st Dragoons.
About this time Gideon Ouseley — " Ireland's most successful evangelist " — settled in the town, and opened a school in the little chapel in " Bridge-street," which was largely attended. He, with other ministers, preached in the open air, more especially on market-days, and as they addressed the people in their native Irish tongue, crowds gathered around, listening eagerly and respectfully. In 1797 Ouseley settled in Ballymote and delivered many outdoor addresses.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 71

As the companion tells it

You are coming into Sligo now. On 20 May 1789, John Wesley paid his fourteenth and last visit to this town, and was entertained in the barracks by the Quartermaster of the 1st Dragoons. His first visit had been back in May 1758, when he rode from Drumsna through Ballymote, Collooney, and Ballysadare. By 1760 the congregation had grown enough that he saw the need for a proper place to hold services, and a large commodious apartment was procured. The first Methodist Chapel went up in Bridge Street in 1775, small, with what the record calls an exceedingly low thatched roof. By then Sligo was the head of a Circuit with two ministers. About the time of that last visit in 1789, Gideon Ouseley, described as Ireland's most successful evangelist, settled in the town. He opened a school in the little chapel in Bridge Street, which was largely attended. He and other ministers preached in the open air, especially on market days, and as they addressed the people in their native Irish tongue, crowds gathered around, listening eagerly and respectfully. In 1797 Ouseley moved on to Ballymote and delivered many outdoor addresses there.

Wynne family controlled Sligo borough representation, 1723-1832

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1723–1832

From 1723 until the Reform Bill of 1832, the head of the Wynne family personally represented the Corporation and electors of Sligo for both Parliamentary and local purposes. The Reform Bill threw open the Parliamentary representation of the borough to a considerable electorate, ending this monopoly.

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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

Coming up through Sligo now. For over a century this town's representation was a family affair. From 1723 right through to the Reform Bill of 1832, the head of the Wynne family represented the Corporation and the electors of Sligo in his own person, for both Parliamentary and local purposes. That meant one man, the head of the family, held the borough seat generation after generation. The Reform Bill of 1832 changed that, throwing the Parliamentary representation open to a considerable electorate and ending the Wynne monopoly. The Crown followed up in 1833 with Royal Commissions to address abuses in the government of corporate towns across the United Kingdom.

French fleet sighted off Sligo coast, panic in town

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1798

On 27 October 1798, four French frigates and a man-of-war appeared off the Sligo coast. The Fox cutter escaped under heavy fire that was distinctly heard in the streets of Sligo, putting a stop to all trade on market day.

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The next morning', i.e. the 2'3rd September, Balllna was occupied by Captain O'Hara's, Captain Wynne's, and Captain Crofton's corps of yeomanry, which formed portion of the force under command of Major General Trench ; these, together with the two Tireragh corps, assisted in the recapture of Killala. Towards the close of the year (October 27) four French frigates and a man-of-war made their appearance off the Sligo Coast. This news was brouglit in by the Fox cutter, which escaped under a heavy fire distinctly heard in the streets of Sligo, and the excitement " put a stop to all trade for this market day. Colonel Gough, commanding the garrison, ordered the troops to be in readiness to march at a moment's notice." These vessels were probably connected with the abortive descent of Napper Tandy on the Rosses in Donegal.
The following were the committee of Sligo magistrates appointed by Government to inquire into losses sustained owing to the excesses of the insurgents, and to decide on the claims of each applicant : — Arthur Irwin, W. Harloe Phibbs, E,ev. Messrs. Duke, Cullen, and West.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 13

As the companion tells it

Sligo town lies ahead on the road. On the 27th of October 1798, four French frigates and a man-of-war appeared off the Sligo coast. The Fox cutter brought the news in, having escaped under heavy fire. That fire was distinctly heard in the streets of Sligo. The excitement, as the record says, "put a stop to all trade for this market day." Colonel Gough, commanding the garrison, ordered the troops to be in readiness to march at a moment's notice. These vessels were probably connected with the abortive descent of Napper Tandy on the Rosses in Donegal. It was a late echo of the trouble that had shaken the county through the summer. Earlier that September, Ballina had been occupied by the yeomanry corps of Captain O'Hara, Captain Wynne, and Captain Crofton, part of the force under Major General Trench. Together with two Tireragh corps, they assisted in the recapture of Killala. By October, Sligo was still a garrison town, and the sight of French sails on the horizon was enough to stop a market day cold.

Protestant inhabitants flee barony toward Sligo for safety

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1798

Protestant inhabitants of the barony dreaded both the French approach and rebel cruelty, and with no troops between Ballina and Sligo, they fled to Sligo for protection, driving cattle and conveying families and goods on carts.

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The Protestant inhabitants of the barony dreaded not only the approach of the French, but likewise the cruelty of the rebels ; and aware also of there being no troops of any kind on the line from Ballina to Sligo, they fled to the latter place for protection. Many Protestant farmers were seen retreating on foot, driving their cattle and sheep before them, and conveying on carts their wives and children and such of their goods as they could conveniently remove.
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.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 12

As the companion tells it

As you come through Sligo, you are in the town where frightened people sought refuge in 1798. The Protestant inhabitants of the barony dreaded both the French approach and the cruelty of the rebels, and with no troops stationed between Ballina and Sligo, they fled here for protection. Protestant farmers were seen retreating on foot, driving their cattle and sheep before them, and conveying on carts their wives and children and whatever goods they could carry. The Protestant clergy were also forced to flee. The persecution went beyond imprisoning people and destroying their houses; it extended to demolishing churches, tearing out the carpentry, and wantonly tearing the books found in them. Among the churches most damaged were those of Lackan, Easky, Killrateige, and Enniscrone. At Enniscrone they tore up the flooring, demolished the pews and communion table, rifled the tombs, and desecrated the remains of the dead.

Celebrated pipers of Sligo and the blind piper

Sligo · town · Sligo

The pipers of Sligo were numerous and celebrated in tradition. The then-current piper of Sligo was an aged and blind man who had followed his vocation for nearly fifty years.

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The present " piper of Sligo " is an aged and blind man, who for nearly fifty years has been following his now unremunerative vocation.
One who possessed the talents of an improvisatore, and of a musician, was Carolan, who spent a great portion of his life in the counties of Roscommon and Sligo, where he was a j^ersond grata to several families, to whom are dedicated many pleasing productions of his muse. The country people accounted for Carolan's great skill in composition by alleging that he slept out at night on a rath, and on awakening used instantly to recite the fairy songs and melodies he had heard in his dreams.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 200

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Sligo, you're in a town long celebrated for its pipers. The town's piper at the time this was written was an aged and blind man who had followed his vocation for nearly 50 years. The place also had a connection to Carolan, the musician and improviser who spent much of his life in Roscommon and this county, welcomed by several families to whom he dedicated many pleasing compositions. The country people said Carolan slept out at night on a rath, and on waking would recite the fairy songs and melodies he had heard in his dreams.

Artisans' Dwellings built on Cadgers' Field, Sligo

near Emmet Place · street · Waterford · 1886–1888

Sligo Town Council built Artisans' Dwellings on the site known as the 'Cadgers' Field,' purchased for £500 from Mr. Ashley. A £3,000 grant from the Commissioners of Public Works was received in March 1886, and on 22nd February 1888 the site was formally re-named 'Emmet-place.'

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Artisans' Dw^ellings have been built by the Town Council. The committee appointed by them proposed the erection of sixty houses ; and on the 24th February, 1886, there was a further recommendation from them to purchase the " Cadgers' Field," and to accept Mr. Ashley's offer of the plot for £500. In March a grant of £3000 was received from the Commissioners of Public Works, and possession of the ground was taken 11th August, 1886, On 29th September the plans, as drawn by Mr. W. Cochrane, the Borough Surveyor, were approved of. The contract for making the roads and sewers was given to Mr. George Kerr ; and on 2nd February, 1887, he was declared the contractor for erection of most of the houses ; three additional being built in 1888. On 22nd February, 1888, the site of the Artisans' Dwellings, formerly " The Cadgers' Field," was re-named " Emmet-place." ^
Branch Banks in Sligo are of comparatively recent origin ; although to modern ideas it seems strange that business on any extensive scale could have been carried on without the medium of local banks. Formerly, large sums of money were transmitted by bills, and transactions of any great magnitude were negotiated by special messenger. The circulation of small coin was, however, quite as deficient as the means of transferring large amounts ; and, therefore, about the middle of the seven-

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 84

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Emmet Place, the Town Council built Artisans' Dwellings on a site once known as the Cadgers' Field. A committee appointed by the Council proposed the erection of sixty houses. On the 24th of February 1886, they recommended purchasing the field and accepting Mr. Ashley's offer of the plot for £500. In March, a grant of £3000 came from the Commissioners of Public Works, and possession of the ground was taken on the 11th of August 1886. On the 29th of September, the plans drawn by Mr. W. Cochrane, the Borough Surveyor, were approved. The contract for making the roads and sewers went to Mr. George Kerr, and on the 2nd of February 1887 he was declared the contractor for the erection of most of the houses. Three additional houses were built in 1888. On the 22nd of February 1888, the site of the Artisans' Dwellings, formerly the Cadgers' Field, was formally re-named Emmet-place. Sixty houses proposed, a field bought for £500, a £3000 grant, and a new name on the map.

Ballina and Ardnaree Loyal Volunteers raised, 1779

Ballina · townland · Mayo · 1779

The Right Hon. Henry King, one of twelve 'Generals' elected by the Volunteers and a delegate at Dungannon in 1782, raised and commanded the Ballina and Ardnaree Loyal Volunteers. The corps was associated on 1st July 1779.

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" The Sligo Volunteers " were commanded by Mr. Wynne. The Eight Hon. Henry King was one of the twelve "Generals " elected by the Volunteers, and was one of the delegates who met at Dungannon, 15th February, 1782. He also raised and commanded " The Ballina and Ardnaree Loyal Volunteers," associated (^. e. raised) 1st July, 1779. " The Liney Volunteers " were associated in 1778 ; their uniform was scarlet faced with blue. They were commanded by Major George Dodwell. Lt- Col. Ormsby was in command of the " Sligo Loyal Volunteers " raised May 25th, 1779, the uniform scarlet, faced white. Provincial reviews were held by the Volunteers, the various corps being fully provided with all necessary camp equipment.
One of the largest of these reviews was held near Sligo in 1781, and the order in which the various corps were drawn up is here given. The details of the manoeuvres — which occupy sixteen pages of the pamphlet' — are omitted, but some items are curious; for instance, officers still carried "fusils," and when saluting the inspecting general, "the officers wearing hats (except those on horseback) will take off their hats; the capofficers will put their hands to their caps."

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

Close to Ballina, in 1779, the Right Honourable Henry King raised and commanded the Ballina and Ardnaree Loyal Volunteers. They were associated on the 1st of July that year. King was one of twelve generals elected by the Volunteers, and he served as a delegate at the meeting in Dungannon on the 15th of February, 1782. The Volunteers held provincial reviews, the various corps fully provided with all necessary camp equipment. One of the largest of these reviews took place near Sligo in 1781, and the various corps were drawn up in order for the occasion. The details of the manoeuvres filled sixteen pages of a pamphlet. Officers still carried fusils. When saluting the inspecting general, the officers wearing hats, except those on horseback, were to take off their hats, and the cap officers were to put their hands to their caps. Other corps in the region included the Sligo Volunteers, commanded by Mr. Wynne, and the Liney Volunteers, associated in 1778, their uniform scarlet faced with blue, commanded by Major George Dodwell. The Sligo Loyal Volunteers were raised on the 25th of May, 1779, under Lieutenant Colonel Ormsby, their uniform scarlet faced white.

Bank failure of M'Creery and Ballantyne in Sligo

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1800–1822

Several small banks failed in Sligo, affecting local trade. Among them was the firm of Messrs. M'Creery and Ballantyne, whose failure inspired a satirical ballad. The incident reflects the fragility of early nineteenth-century local banking in the town.

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There occurred, also, several failures of small banks, by which the trade of Sligo was more or less affected. Amongst them was that of Messrs. M'Creery and Ballantyne, on the subject of which a ballad was written, commencing : —
" Kings, princes, and nations in wealth do decliae, And why not M'Creery with sweet Ballantyne."

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 87

As the companion tells it

In the early 1800s, several small banks failed in Sligo, affecting the town's trade. Among them was the firm of M'Creery and Ballantyne. A satirical ballad was written about their collapse, opening: "Kings, princes, and nations in wealth do decline, And why not M'Creery with sweet Ballantyne."

Buckley's Ford named from 1691 killing at Green Fort

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1691

Buckley's Ford in Sligo derived its name from an officer killed at the pass in 1691 by a cannon ball fired from the Green Fort of Sligo, then held by Sir Teigue O'Regan.

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1 Buckley's Ford is said to have derived its name from an oflB^cer who, in lf)91, was killed at this pass by a cannon ball tired from the Green Fort of Sligo, which was then in possession of Sir Teigue 0' Regan.
3 It was also designated "The English Road," as it was made with British money.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 34

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Sligo, you are near Buckley's Ford, a pass that took its name from an officer killed here in 1691 by a cannon ball fired from the Green Fort, which Sir Teigue O'Regan held at the time. It was also called the English Road, having been made with British money.

Captain M'Dermott's petition for garrison expenses at Sligo

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1688–1691

Captain Hugh M'Dermott petitioned for reimbursement after subsisting his company for five weeks in the Garrison of Sligo, having purchased coats, hats, shoes, and stockings for sixty-eight soldiers at his own expense, borrowing money from several persons.

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" Sheweth that yo' petio' uppon yo'" Honno" encourdagm* and pmise of reimburssinge yo"" petio' did subsist his company for five weekes in the Garizon of Sligo, and bought for y^ s** Company sixty eight coates, sixty eight hatts, sixty eight paire of shooes, and sixty eight paire of stokens, that yo"^ petio' to serve his mat'* and please yo' Honno" was fforced to borrow from severall psons ye most p' of ye monys layd out by him for ye uses affors** and is duly duned for y* s** mony to yo' petio" great discredit and disaduantage if not soone reluied by yo"" Honnor'.
"May it therefore please yo' Honnor' tenderly to consider y* pmisses and yo' one ffaithfull pmisse to ord' some course whereby yo' petio' may be reimburssed and payd of his mony, w'''' amounts to one hundred and three pounds str^ as by the accompt underneath more at lardge may appear — and yo' petio' shall ever pray, &"=.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 2

As the companion tells it

Sligo town was a garrison in the years after 1688, and one officer here left a record of what it cost him. Captain Hugh M'Dermott petitioned for reimbursement after subsisting his company for five weeks in the garrison. He had bought coats, hats, shoes, and stockings for 68 soldiers at his own expense, and was forced to borrow from several persons to do it. He was being dunned for the money, he said, to his great discredit, and the whole amounted to 103 pounds.

Captain O'Dowd's mountain road improvement near Banada

Banada · townland · Sligo · 1800–1816

Near Banada, a road branched off to Ballina through 'The Gap' by Lough Talt. Captain O'Dowd, who owned thousands of acres of uninhabited mountain, had the road improved through formerly impassable terrain of rocks, steep hills and deep caverns.

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Another of the old trunk-lines led from Collooney through Tubbercurry, Banada, and Kilmacteigue, over the mountains to Foxford and Castlebar. This road is still known as the *' Circuit Road," ' from the fact that the judges and members of the bar rode by it from Sligo to Castlebar when going circuit. There are yet some old men living who recollect this, and who saw soldiers, on the march to their quarters at Castlebar, encamp for the night near the village of Aclare. Near Banada, a road branched off to Balliua through " The Gap " by Lough Talt. Of this road, Neligau (1816) in his Statistical Account of Kilmacteiye, relates that " a valuable improvement was made in this place through the exertions of a Captain O'Dowd, who possessed an estate of many thousand acres of these mountains, which were without inhabitants, . . . and which were nearly impassable to the active and barefooted natives. The immense rocks, steep hills, and deep caverns which everywhere presented themselves, formed as many difficulties as the passage of the
1 In the presentment book of the Grand Jury (1805) it is styled the " Grand Circuit Road." The road from Boyle to Ballyshannon through Sligo is also desi^ruated " The Circuit lioad."

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 99

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, a road once branched off toward Ballina, running through a place called The Gap, by Lough Talt. The land all around belonged to Captain O'Dowd, who held many thousand acres of mountain, empty of people. Neligau, writing in 1816 in his Statistical Account of Kilmacteige, records what O'Dowd did. He had the road improved through terrain that was nearly impassable to the active and barefooted natives. The land held immense rocks, steep hills, and deep caverns, presenting difficulty after difficulty at every step. This road was part of an older route that ran from Collooney through Tubbercurry, Banada, and Kilmacteigue, over the mountains to Foxford and Castlebar. People called it the Circuit Road, because judges and members of the bar rode it from Sligo to Castlebar when going circuit. Old men still living recalled seeing soldiers, on the march to their quarters at Castlebar, encamp for the night near the village of Aclare.

Cattle fed on fish and seaweed during coastal scarcity

Sligo · town · Sligo

On parts of the Sligo sea coast, cattle were reportedly fed on fish and seaweed in times of scarcity. The author notes the practice seemed strange but had parallels on the Norwegian coast and at Malabar.

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It has been asserted that on some parts of the sea coast the cattle were, in times of scarcity, sometimes fed on fish and seaweed ; yet strange as the statement seems, there may be truth in it, as that kind of food was formerly given to cattle on parts of tlie Norwegian coast, and travellers from the east recount the same custom as being prevalent at Malabar. The ordinary cattle^ of the county were nearly the same as those of Leitrim — small in consequence of the continual exposure to the open air on the mountains ; some of the gentlemen, however, possessed cattle of the long-horned kind for fattening purposes. At the close of the last century cattle buyers from Ulster frequented the Sligo markets ; for small mountain cattle fattened on the lowlands were in general demand in the northern counties.
There were no dairies in Sligo in 1770, but in 1800 they were fairly numerous. The export of butter from the town was considerable. The sudden and vast increase in the quantity and

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 142

As the companion tells it

As you come through Sligo town, there's an old account of the sea coast here where cattle were fed on fish and seaweed in times of scarcity. The writer admitted it sounded strange but pointed out the same practice was once common on parts of the Norwegian coast, and travellers reported it at Malabar as well. The ordinary cattle of the county were small, kept out on the mountains in the open air, though some gentlemen kept long-horned cattle for fattening. At the close of the 1700s, buyers from Ulster came to the Sligo markets, because small mountain cattle fattened on the lowlands were in demand across the northern counties. There were no dairies in Sligo in 1770, but by 1800 they were fairly numerous, and the export of butter from the town was considerable.

Collapse of the Sligo herring fishery after 1783

near Sligo Bay · bay · Sligo · 1783

The herring fishery was of great importance in Sligo and along the north-west coast until 1783, after which it failed almost entirely. During the summer, only a few herrings were caught, scarcely worth notice.

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In Sligo, and also on the whole of the north-west coast, the herring fishery was of great importance until the year 1783 ; after that time it failed almost entirely. During the summer season a few herrings were caught, but the quantity was so small as scarcely to be worth notice.
M'Parlan, in his Siirvei/ of Sligo (1802), remarks that many people looked upon sprats as young herrings, and so very many of them having been taken, it was supposed the herrings had decreased in number, and that the survivors were frightened from the coast. It has been also stated that the noise of artillery and the firing of small arms must tend to frighten away fish accustomed to swim near the surface of the water. The migratory

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 127

As the companion tells it

Sligo Bay was once herring country. Up and down the north-west coast the herring fishery was of great importance, and Sligo stood at the heart of it. Then in the year 1783 it failed almost entirely. During the summer season a few herrings were still caught, but the quantity was so small as scarcely to be worth notice. M'Parlan, writing his survey of Sligo in 1802, remarked that many people looked upon sprats as young herrings. So very many of them having been taken, it was supposed the herrings had decreased in number, and that the survivors were frightened from the coast. It was also stated that the noise of artillery and the firing of small arms must tend to frighten away fish accustomed to swim near the surface of the water.

Dermod and Grania's retreat in Tireragh barony

Tireragh · barony · Sligo

During their flight from Finn, Dermod and Grania took refuge in the barony of Tireragh, among other places. The epic describes their hair-breadth escapes across various locations.

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The Pursuit of Dcrmod and Grania is too long to be given in its entirety. They resided at Rath-Grrania, near Colloony ; and the death of Dermod takes place on Benbulben. Of this epic at least two translations have been made, one by Standish H. O'Grady, and another by Dr. Joyce, in Old Celtic Romances. Grania, daughter of King Cormac Mac Art, was affianced to Finn the son of Cumal, commander-in-chief of the Feni, or warriors of the kingdom. The king gave a great banquet at Tara in honour of the betrothal, where the bride fell in love with Dermod O'Dyna ; she had drugs placed in all the wine cups except that of Dermod, and when the company were in a state of stupor she eloped with her lover. A long account is given of the pursuit of the runaway couple by the naturally irate Finn, of the diiferent places in which they took refuge, of their hair-breadth escapes, of their retreat in the barony of Tireragh. Finn, worsted in every attempt against the life of Dermod, grew weary of the quarrel, and peace was made.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 190

As the companion tells it

This barony, Tireragh, is a place Dermod and Grania passed through, one of the refuges they took during their long flight from Finn. Grania was the daughter of King Cormac Mac Art, affianced to Finn, son of Cumal, commander-in-chief of the Feni, the warriors of the kingdom. The king gave a great banquet at Tara in honour of the betrothal. There the bride fell in love with Dermod O'Dyna. She had drugs placed in all the wine cups except that of Dermod, and when the company were in a state of stupor she eloped with her lover. Finn, naturally irate, pursued them across the country. A long account is given of the different places in which they took refuge, of their hair-breadth escapes, of their retreat in the barony of Tireragh. Finn, worsted in every attempt against the life of Dermod, grew weary of the quarrel, and peace was made. They had resided at Rath-Grania, near Colloony, and the death of Dermod takes place on Benbulben. The epic itself is too long to be given in its entirety. At least two translations have been made, one by Standish H. O'Grady, and another by Dr. Joyce, in Old Celtic Romances.

Dilapidated state of Sligo Fever Hospital

Sligo · town · Sligo

The Sligo Fever Hospital was for a time in a very dilapidated condition with doors and window-sashes needing repair and totally inadequate accommodation for the fever-stricken. This arose from periodical opposition by distant magistrates to presentments for the institution's support, as they believed a central hospital was unnecessary.

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The Fever Hospital was, in the last century, situated in a then completely isolated position on the green headland westward of the present Victoria approach to the town. Here it remained for a lengthened period until the new edifice, now in use, was erected. It bears over the door the inscription : — Erected at the joint expense of the County and Edward Synge Cooper, Esq., M.P., 1822. On the 29th May of that year it was announced that the new Fever Hospital had been occupied, and contained no less than thirty-eight patients, and from the distress of the poor, the fever cases were daily increasing. Just before the outbreak of the cholera — ten years subsequently — it was almost empty of patients, as demonstrated by the returns of the sick which were published weekly in the columns of the local newspaper. This hospital was not long ago in a very dilapidated condition ; the doors and window- sashes needed repair, and the accommodation for the fever- stricken was totally inadequate, according to modern and humane ideas. This state of affairs is said to have arisen from the almost periodical opposition made to the presentments at sessions for support of the institution — by magistrates living in distant parts of the county, who were of opinion that a central hospital was not required. The oldest records of the hospital have disappeared, so that a complete list of physicians is at present not procurable. The medical men in charge of the Fever Hospital since 1822, were Drs. Irwin, Coyne, Knott, Homan, Lynn, and Murray.
The Lunatic Asylum is a noble structure in the Eliza-

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 77

As the companion tells it

Sligo, as a town, has long carried the weight of caring for its sick. The Fever Hospital stood in what was once a completely isolated position on the green headland west of the present Victoria approach. A new building was erected at the joint expense of the County and Edward Synge Cooper, Esq., M.P., in 1822. Over the door it bore that inscription. On the 29th of May 1822 it was announced that the new Fever Hospital had been occupied and already contained no less than 38 patients. From the distress of the poor, the fever cases were daily increasing. Ten years later, just before the outbreak of the cholera, the hospital was almost empty of patients. The returns of the sick were published weekly in the columns of the local newspaper. Not long ago the hospital was in a very dilapidated condition. The doors and window-sashes needed repair, and the accommodation for the fever-stricken was totally inadequate, according to modern and humane ideas. This state of affairs is said to have arisen from the almost periodical opposition made to the presentments at sessions for the support of the institution, by magistrates living in distant parts of the county, who were of the opinion that a central hospital was not required. The oldest records of the hospital have disappeared, so a complete list of physicians is not procurable. The medical men in charge since 1822 were Drs. Irwin, Coyne, Knott, Homan, Lynn, and Murray.

Duelling code settled at Clonmel Assizes, 1777

Clonmel · town · Tipperary · 1777

A code regulating the practice of duelling and points of honour was settled at Clonmel Summer Assizes in 1777 by delegates from Tipperary, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, and Roscommon, and prescribed for general adoption throughout Ireland.

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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

As you pass through Sligo, you are travelling through a town once famous for its duellists. Before the Act of Union, Sligo produced some of the finest young fighters, known as fire-eaters, whose spirit and decorum were said to be admirable. A few of them helped draft a formal duelling code at the Clonmel Summer Assizes in 1777, alongside delegates from Tipperary, Galway, Mayo, and Roscommon. This code prescribed rules for general adoption throughout Ireland and regulated the practice until its final extinction. One writer of the time noted that Sligo had many professors and a high reputation in what he called the leaden branch of the pastime.

Elsinore, Cooper family property, hosted seaside worship

Elsinore · street · Limerick

Before the Rosses Point church was built, Protestant visitors to the seaside were invited to attend services at Elsinore, then the property of the Cooper family. Occasional clergy lodging at the Point also held services wherever congregations could be gathered.

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Originally, the Rosses having formed part of the very extensive parish of Druracliff, depended for the ministrations of religion on the services of the rector and his curate, by whom (during the bathing season) divine worship was conducted on Sunday afternoon in a room of some farmhouse, lent by the owner for the purpose. At Elsinore, which was then the property of the Cooper family, the visitors to the seaside were invited to attend, and occasionally, clergymen of the diocese, who chanced to be temporarily lodging at the Point, held services, and ministered wherever congregations could be brought together. But the irregularity and inconvenience of these arriingements were keenly felt, when, as happened year by year, the number of Protestant visitors increased. Therefore, with the consent of the Rev. Thomas Crawford, then rector of Drumcliff, it was resolved, that a parochial district should be severed from the mother parish, under what was known as " the Peel Act " of Parliament, and a church built, in which an incumbent should conduct the services of the United Church of England and Ireland, and have spiritual charge of the new parish — the appointment to be placed in the hands of Five Trustees. Appeals for aid towards carrying out this desirable object were accordingly made, and a sufficient amount was raised for the erection of the church now standing at the entrance to the village of Rosses Point, and also for endowment of the incumbency, whenever a nomination thereto could be made. A sum of over £500 was expended in the building and fittings of the church, and £1395 was provided for endowment. The first stone was laid on the 14th August, 1854: the architect was William Dean Butler, and the builder, Henry Caldwell. For some years after 1858, when the building was opened for Divine Service during the summer months, the clei-gy of Drumcliff ofhciated there on Sunday afternoons, and conducted a school for the children of the coastguards and other residents of the district. In 1867 the then rector, feeling himself unable, througli infirmity of age, to keep up the summer service at The Rosses, secured for a short period the aid of the Rev. J'rederick Flood, A.B., Vicar of Ivilmood, in the diocese of Down, who eventually accepted the incumbency of the church, and in August, 1869, he entered on the charge of the parish, in which he still continues to serve.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 113

As the companion tells it

This is Elsinore, the Cooper family property, where Protestant visitors to the seaside were once invited to attend divine worship. Before the church at Rosses Point was built, the Rosses formed part of the extensive parish of Drumcliff, and depended for the ministrations of religion on the rector and his curate. During the bathing season, divine worship was conducted on Sunday afternoons in a room of some farmhouse, lent by the owner for the purpose. At Elsinore, visitors to the seaside were invited to attend. Occasionally, clergymen of the diocese who chanced to be temporarily lodging at the Point held services and ministered wherever congregations could be brought together. The irregularity and inconvenience of these arrangements were keenly felt, as year by year the number of Protestant visitors increased. With the consent of the Reverend Thomas Crawford, then rector of Drumcliff, it was resolved that a parochial district should be severed from the mother parish under what was known as the Peel Act of Parliament, and a church built. Over 500 pounds was spent on the building and fittings, and 1395 pounds provided for endowment. The first stone was laid on the 14th of August, 1854. The architect was William Dean Butler, and the builder Henry Caldwell. The building opened for divine service during the summer months in 1858, with the clergy of Drumcliff officiating on Sunday afternoons and conducting a school for the children of the coastguards and other residents.

English relief contributions distributed in Sligo

Sligo · town · Sligo

William Urwick served as honorary secretary for the distribution of English contributions in Sligo town and county, with £50,000 disbursed on works of public utility. A remaining £40,000 from the London Fund was divided among ten western counties for linen, woollen, and fishery industries.

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In the Life of William Urwicl;, D.D., it is stated that he had been appointed honorary secretary to the relief committee for distribution of English contributions in the town and county ; £50,000 is said to have been disbursed in Sligo on works of supposed public utility. When the managers of the London Fund closed the accounts, they had a balance of £40,000 in hand, and this sum was divided amongst the ten Western Counties of Ireland ; each local committee was allocated its share, to give money out on loan to assist the linen, woollen, and fishery industries.
A scarcity of provisions in Sligo became very apparent at the commencement of the year 1830, and the peasantry were compelled to travel from remote quarters of the country, ten, fifteen, or twenty miles, in order to purchase a stone of meal in the town ; there was, in short, a recurrence of a period of scarcity almost as great as in the year 1822. The price of potatoes rose to nearly 3s. a peck of 4 stone ; oatmeal stood at 20.s. per ewt. ; fuel of every description attained an unprecedented high price ; coals rose to 22s. a ton, and in May, 1831, potatoes had to be imported into Sligo.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 35

As the companion tells it

Sligo town was a centre for famine relief paid for from England. William Urwick served as honorary secretary to the relief committee for distribution of English contributions in the town and county. £50,000 was disbursed in Sligo on works of supposed public utility. When the managers of the London Fund closed their accounts, they had a balance of £40,000 in hand. That sum was divided among the ten western counties of Ireland, each local committee given its share to lend out for the linen, woollen, and fishery industries. A scarcity of provisions in Sligo became apparent at the commencement of the year 1830. The peasantry were compelled to travel from remote quarters of the country, ten, fifteen, or twenty miles, to purchase a single stone of meal in the town. There was a recurrence of scarcity almost as great as in the year 1822. The price of potatoes rose to nearly 3s. a peck of 4 stone. Oatmeal stood at 20s. per cwt. Fuel of every description reached an unprecedented high price. Coals rose to 22s. a ton, and in May 1831 potatoes had to be imported into Sligo.

Fatal football accident in Sligo, 1890 season

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1890

Football had gained a firm hold on young men in Sligo by the late nineteenth century. During the 1890 season a very serious accident occurred during a match, resulting in the death of one of the players, underscoring the rough element sometimes introduced into the game.

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The game of football seems in the present day to have obtained a firm hold on the young men of Sligo, if the enthusiasm with which they work up their practices be a criterion ; a good deal of the rough element, however, is sometimes introduced into matches, and in the season of 1890 a very serious accident occurred which resulted in the death of one of the players. There are several athletic associations in Sligo — " The Hare and Hounds Club " being one of the longest in existence. There is also a bicycle club, some of whose members prefer racing along the footpaths to confining their exertions to the high road.
In a well-sheltered nook on the north side of the road leading to Ardowen, a site for a lawn-tennis ground was taken on lease in 1881, and a large sum of money expended in laying out the courts, and erecting a pavilion and house for the caretaker. Here tournaments open to the whole kingdom are held yearly, and at that time the place, when thronged with fair athletes, presents a most animated appearance.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 207

As the companion tells it

Sligo by the late 1800s had taken to football with real enthusiasm. The young men of the town worked up their practices with a keenness that left no doubt the game had a firm hold on them. But a good deal of the rough element found its way into matches now and then, and in the 1890 season a very serious accident occurred during a game. One of the players was killed. The accident stood as a stark reminder of what could happen when the play turned rough. Beyond football, Sligo had several athletic associations. The Hare and Hounds Club was among the longest in existence. There was also a bicycle club, and some of its members preferred racing along the footpaths to keeping their exertions to the high road. A lawn-tennis ground had been laid out in 1881 in a sheltered nook on the north side of the road leading to Ardowen, with a pavilion and a house for the caretaker. Tournaments open to the whole kingdom were held there yearly.

First Lough Gill yacht regatta, 1821

near Lough Gill · lake or lakes · Kerry · 1821

Yacht-racing was regularly established on Lough Gill in 1821, when the ladies of the county presented a cup to the racing community. At the September 27th regatta, Captain William Rochfort RN, acting as judge, recommended plain sails for safety on the squally lake.

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In 1821 yacht-racing seems first to have been regularly established. In that year a cup was presented by the ladies of the county to the racing community of Lough Gill. At the regatta held on September 27th of that year. Captain William Rochfort, R. N. (who was judge), stated that as the boat-race was intended for amusement, as well as to try the rate of sailing under equal canvas, he strongly recommended plain sails — " flying kites or fancy sails rendering it extremely dangerous in a squally lake." Captain Rochfort's suggestion was adopted

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 196

As the companion tells it

This lake, Lough Gill, saw its first proper yacht regatta in 1821, when the ladies of the county gave a cup to the racing community. At the regatta on September 27th that year, Captain William Rochfort of the Royal Navy, acting as judge, told the sailors he strongly recommended plain sails, saying that "flying kites or fancy sails" made racing "extremely dangerous in a squally lake." His suggestion was adopted.

Friars move from abbey to High Street, Sligo

High Street · street · Sligo · 1760–1783

In 1760 Father Laurence Connellan, formerly Regius Primarius of studies at the Irish Dominican College of Louvain, returned to Sligo and saw the need to leave the crumbling abbey. In 1783 he obtained a lease on the upper floor of a house on the east side of High Street, to which the friars removed.

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It was in 1760 that the before-mentioned Father Laurence Connellan, who had been for some time Regiits Primarhis of studies in the Irish Dominican College of Louvain, returned to Sligo, and saw the necessity of vacating the crumbling abbey and securing a more suitable situation ; in 1783 he obtained a lease from Mr. James Hart of " all that and those the upper floor of a house on the east side of High-street," to which place he removed.
The Friary of the Order of St. Dominic was built in 1803 by Father Thomas Brennan, and was placed under the superintendence of a prior and two clergymen.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 63

As the companion tells it

In 1760 Father Laurence Connellan, formerly Regius Primarius of studies at the Irish Dominican College of Louvain, returned to Sligo and saw the need to leave the crumbling abbey. In 1783 he took a lease from Mr. James Hart for the upper floor of a house on the east side of High Street, and removed there.

Glacial boulders forming Carrowmore monuments

Carrowmore · townland · Sligo

The stone circles and cromlechs at Carrowmore are constructed from travelled blocks of granite or schist deposited by glacial ice movement from the Ox range. Similar glacial boulders are also found near the summit of Knocknarea.

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

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 134

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, the stone circles and cromlechs of Carrowmore rise from the ground, built from blocks of granite or schist that travelled here from the Ox range. The ice that carried them moved towards the north-west across the tract from Sligo Bay to Lough Conn. That direction was determined by observations made by the Reverend Maxwell Close and others, who read it from the striations cut into rocks and from the transport of erratics. Glaciated rounded bosses called roches moutonnees in the deer-park at Markree and in Union Wood show the same movement, as does the ground north of Collooney station, where crag and tail formations are very apparent. The tail was ground down by a powerful ice-sheet advancing from the south-east, while the crag, the bluff facing the opposite way, suffered little from attrition. Similar boulders to those at Carrowmore are found near the summit of Knocknarea, which rises 1078 feet and is limestone. The converse is seen south of the eighth milestone on the road from Sligo to Ballina, where a block of rubbly limestone weighing about 23 tons rests on a ridge of gneiss some 400 feet above sea level. Such a boulder must have travelled several miles to reach its position. Near the old churchyard of Kilmorgan, an immense number of boulders of the same rubbly limestone, with bands of chert, are scattered over half a square mile. They look as if they had been thrown at random in a battle of giants. Ice is the only agency to account for their transport, not by glacier but through icebergs that grounded and dropped their burdens in shallow water hereabouts.

Grand Jury street widening in Sligo town

Wine Street · street · Sligo · 1849–1869

The Grand Jury of County Sligo spent £10,000 in the twenty years prior to 1869 widening the streets of Sligo town, including Wine Street and Quay Street. The Sligo Improvement Bill of 1869 shifted responsibility for such works away from the Grand Jury.

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Active operations were not commenced until the month of February, 1847. The cost of the bridge itself was £2017, and of the approaches to it £2226. This includes the sum of £1626 granted to the owners of nine houses which were built on or near the old bridge— making a total of £4243. The Victoria line, however, was not publicly opened until 26th June, 1852. It should be borne in mind that the expense of the Victoria Bridge and the approaches to it was defrayed by the Grand Jury of the County, as was likewise the cost of the widening of Wine-street, Quay-street, and other thoroughfares; and but for the passing of the " Sligo Improvement Bill " of 1869, an intercepting sewer would have been constructed (also by the Grand Jury) on each bank of the river. Mr. Noblett St. Leger (County Surveyor), stated in his evidence before a Committee of the House of Lords that the Grand Jury of the County had within the twenty years prior to 1869 spent £10,000 in widening the streets of the town.
The bridges of Annagh, over the river Moy ; of Carrowcullen, on the road from the " Ladies' Brae " to Skreen ; of Aclare, Curry, and many others of less note, remain as monuments of Mr. St. Leger's skill as an engineer.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 101

As the companion tells it

Wine Street in Sligo town was one of the streets the Grand Jury of County Sligo widened, along with Quay Street and other thoroughfares. The Grand Jury had already spent on the Victoria Bridge, where active operations began in February 1847. The bridge itself cost £2017 and the approaches £2226. That included £1626 paid to the owners of 9 houses built on or near the old bridge, bringing the total to £4243. The Victoria line was not publicly opened until 26 June 1852. The expense of the bridge and its approaches was defrayed by the Grand Jury of the County, as was the cost of widening Wine Street, Quay Street, and other thoroughfares. Had the Sligo Improvement Bill of 1869 not passed, an intercepting sewer would have been constructed by the Grand Jury on each bank of the river. Mr. Noblett St. Leger, the County Surveyor, gave evidence before a Committee of the House of Lords that the Grand Jury of the County had, within the 20 years prior to 1869, spent £10,000 in widening the streets of the town. The bridges of Annagh over the river Moy, of Carrowcullen on the road from the Ladies' Brae to Skreen, of Aclare, Curry, and many others of less note, remain as monuments of Mr. St. Leger's skill as an engineer.

High illiteracy among North Sligo voters, 1885–1891

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1885–1891

At the 1885 North Sligo election, 1070 out of 5988 voters declared themselves illiterate; by 1891, 1783 out of 5754 voters acknowledged they could neither read nor write, showing persistent literacy problems despite decades of national education.

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The proportion per cent, of the population, 5 years old and upwards who could neither read nor write, was 68-7 in 1841 ; 63-3 in 1851; 53-2 in 1861; 50-6 in 1871; 38-9 in 1881. The foregoing information is from official census returns, but when tried by a practical standard, the result is far from being satisfactory. At the election of a member for North Sligo in 1885, 1070 persons out of a total poll of 5988 declared themselves to be illiterate; whilst in 1891, 1783 voters out of a poll of 5754, by their own acknowledgment, were unable either to read or write.
In the year 1861 there were 3466 persons in the county who could speak only Irish ; there were 2326 in 1871, and but 472 in 1881. The number of those who can speak both Irish and English has been on the increase, but here it is thought that the statistics may be misleading. Probably a number of those who enter themselves in the census returns as Irish scholars would be totally unable to carry on, or even understand a conversation in that tongue ; 49,228 persons in the county were in 1851 acquainted with both Irish and English, 36,263 in the year 1861, 24,263 in 1871, and 31,458 in 1881.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 211

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Sligo, the town sits within a county where literacy was a stubborn problem. Census returns showed the share of people who could neither read nor write falling from 68.7 per cent in 1841 to 38.9 per cent in 1881. But the book says that when tried by a practical standard, the result is far from satisfactory. At the North Sligo election of 1885, 1070 voters out of a total poll of 5988 declared themselves illiterate. By 1891 the number had risen to 1783 out of 5754, by their own acknowledgment unable to read or write. Irish was fading too. In 1861, 3466 people in the county spoke only Irish; by 1881 that had fallen to 472. The number speaking both Irish and English shifted from 49,228 in 1851 to 31,458 in 1881, though the author thought some who claimed Irish scholarship could not understand a conversation in it.

Kilruisse church founded 1233 by Archdeacon of Elphin

Kilross · townland · Sligo · 1233–1251

Clarus M'Moylin O'Moillchoury, Archdeacon of Elphin, founded the church of the Holy Trinity at Kilruisse (Kilross) in 1233 for canons of the Order of Præmonstre, making it a cell to the Abbey of Lough Kee. The founder died in 1251. The western end of the old church still stands, with fragments of cut-stone scattered around.

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^ The western end of the old church is still standing — evidently portion of the vaulted dwelling-place of the monks. A few fragments of cut-stone, such as arch-stones of doors and windows, may be seen scattered around. " Clarus M'Moylin O'Moillchoury, Archdeacon of Elphin, founded the church of the Holy Trinity, at KHruisse in 1233, for canons of the Order of Prsemonstre, and made it a cell to the Abbey of Lough Kee ; the founder died A.D. 1251." The other establishment was probably at Killeran, near Toberdoney, in the townland of Ballydawley, now represented by a diminutive unused graveyard ; in it there is one large headstone, stated to mark the grave of " the Bishop." No trace of lettering remains.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 178

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Kilross, the western end of an old church still stands, part of what was evidently the vaulted dwelling-place of the monks. Fragments of cut-stone, arch-stones of doors and windows, lie scattered around. In 1233, Clarus M'Moylin O'Moillchoury, Archdeacon of Elphin, founded the church of the Holy Trinity here, for canons of the Order of Præmonstre. He made it a cell to the Abbey of Lough Kee. The founder died in 1251.

Magnetic serpentine band at Lough Gill

near Lough Gill · lake or lakes · Kerry

A band of serpentine runs for nearly two miles along the shore of Bunowna Bay, Lough Gill, west of Slish Wood. The exposure is remarkable for containing the highest recorded percentage of magnetite, with some portions acting as natural magnets.

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Dividing the band of gneiss at the shore of Bunowna Bay, Lough Gill (west of Slish Wood), and running south for nearly two miles, with an average width of 500 feet, is a band of serpentine, dark-colom^ed, hard, compact rock, showing planes of lamination in the mass, and a disposition to split up into beds of various thicknesses. Geologists recognize it as metamorphic, but are not agreed as to its exact mode of origin ; there is a probability of its having been produced by the metamorphism of magnesian limestone. This exposure of serpentine is remarkable for its extent, and for containing " the highest on record " percentage of magnetite (a mineral that attracts and repels the magnetic needle), so much so, that some portions of the rock possess all the characters of natural magnets. Nickel and garnets are also present.
From a study of the old crystalline areas on the map, it will be seen that along little more than a third of their boundaries are they in contact with the succeeding formations, and exposures of the actual junctions are very rare, the older and newer rocks meeting, in most cases, along concealed lines of fault. Notwithstanding the prevalence of these dislocations, there is sufficient evidence to indicate a total discordance, and, consequently, the lapse of a long interval between the periods at which the old crystalline and the newer Carboniferous were formed. The absence of rocks deposited during this great interval goes far to prove the decided break in the geological series. It has been already noted that there was a floor or surface formed of crystalline rocks, worn into ridges and hollows like those of a land surface ; but

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 131

As the companion tells it

Coming up along Lough Gill, there's a band of serpentine rock that runs along the shore of Bunowna Bay, west of Slish Wood. It runs south for nearly two miles, with an average width of 500 feet. It's a dark-coloured, hard, compact rock, showing planes of lamination and a tendency to split into beds of various thicknesses. Geologists recognise it as metamorphic, but they're not agreed on its exact mode of origin. There's a probability it was produced by the metamorphism of magnesian limestone. What makes this exposure remarkable is its extent and the fact that it contains what the source calls "the highest on record" percentage of magnetite, a mineral that attracts and repels the magnetic needle. Some portions of the rock possess all the characters of natural magnets. Nickel and garnets are also present. The old crystalline rocks in this area are in contact with succeeding formations along little more than a third of their boundaries, and exposures of the actual junctions are very rare. The older and newer rocks meet along concealed lines of fault in most cases. Despite these dislocations, there's enough evidence to indicate a total discordance, and so a long interval between the periods at which the old crystalline and the newer Carboniferous rocks were formed. The absence of rocks deposited during this great interval goes far to prove a decided break in the geological series. There was a floor or surface of crystalline rocks, worn into ridges and hollows like a land surface.

Mass burials at Sligo Abbey grounds during cholera epidemic

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1832

During the 1832 cholera epidemic, very many corpses were buried in the Abbey grounds at Sligo, where there was scarcely enough clay to cover the coffins. Contemporary observers believed more were interred there than at the hospital.

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As the pestilence abated, people began to breathe more freely, and to inquire into the details of calamity throughout the town. It was long, however, before affairs resumed their wonted course, so many individuals had been removed, who were formerly found at the head of every movement in tlieir resj)ective walks of life. Business was partially resumed, and the streets began to wear once more an appearance of life; but a person who visited Sligo at a late period of the year (1832) stated that with respect to the air and atmosphere of the town, he was convinced, from personal sensation, that it was pestiferous and deadly, for when passing to the Courthouse from M'Bride's — now the Imperial — Hotel, a singularly disagreeable odour was perceptible, such as might be noticed in dirty anatomical dissecting rooms, or in confined places crowded with blacks in a state of perspiration ; it was no fancy, for whenever the above-mentioned locality was reached he became peculiarly sensible of it. Very many corpses had been buried in the Abbey-grounds, where there was scarcely clay enough to cover the coffins, whilst in the Churchyard of

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 36

As the companion tells it

Sligo is a town still marked by the cholera epidemic of 1832. When the pestilence finally abated, people began to breathe more freely and ask what had happened, but it was a long time before affairs resumed their wonted course, so many individuals had been removed who were once at the head of every movement in their respective walks of life. A visitor who came late in the year said the very air felt pestiferous and deadly. Passing from McBride's, now the Imperial Hotel, toward the Courthouse, he noticed a singularly disagreeable odour, such as might be found in dirty anatomical dissecting rooms, and he became peculiarly sensible of it whenever he reached that locality. Very many corpses had been buried in the Abbey grounds, where there was scarcely clay enough to cover the coffins. Contemporary observers believed more were interred there than at the hospital.

Municipal Reform Act Divides Sligo into Wards

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1842–1843

Under the Municipal Reform Act of 1842, Sligo was divided into East, West, and North Wards. The first election on 25 October saw the Liberal party carry the East and West Wards. The reformed Corporation dismissed old officials and faced legal disputes over compensation for the Town Clerk.

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By the Municipal Reform Act of 1842 the town of Sligo was divided into East, West, and North Wards, and on the 25th October the first election for the reformed Corporation took place, the Liberal party carrying the East and West Wards. The qualification for Councillorship at that time required a rated valuation of £25, or Declaration of being worth £1,000 over all just debts; two aldermen and six councillors were returned by each Ward.
One of the first acts of the new body was to dismiss all the old ofiicials, because " they had not the confidence of the Council," who further refused to give the Town Clerk any compensation for the loss of his fees and emoluments as registrar of the Provost, and keeper of the Borough records, but the ease being brought before the Queen's Bench, it was directed that compensation should be awarded him.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 52

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town reshaped by the Municipal Reform Act of 1842. Sligo was divided into East, West, and North Wards, and the first election for the reformed Corporation was held on 25 October, with the Liberal party carrying the East and West Wards. A councillor needed a rated valuation of £25 or a declaration of being worth £1,000 over all debts. Each ward returned two aldermen and six councillors. The new body dismissed all the old officials, because they had not the confidence of the Council. They refused the Town Clerk compensation for his lost fees and emoluments, but the case reached the Queen's Bench, which directed that compensation be awarded.

O'Crean family as merchant princes of Sligo, 14th–17th century

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1300–1600

The Four Masters record the deaths of several members of the O'Crean family, who from the 14th to the 17th century appear to have been the leading merchant figures of Sligo. Their prominence underscores the town's long history of commercial activity.

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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

As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town with a long commercial history. In 1566 Sir Henry Sidney wrote that Sligo "hath been a great town, full of merchants' houses." The Four Masters record the deaths of several members of the O'Crean family, who from the 1300s into the 1600s appear to have been the merchant princes of Sligo. Their prominence across three centuries speaks to the town's role as a trading centre.

O'Dowd sea-roving expeditions in 12th-13th centuries

Ballymote · town · Sligo · 1100–1300

The O'Dowds appear to have had a predilection for sea-roving, and in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries several accounts in the Irish Annals describe expeditions undertaken by them, generally crowned with success. The Book of Ballymote contains a drawing of Noah's Ark apparently representing a fourteenth-century ship.

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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).
Grants of the port-dues, &c., occur in 1420 and in 1449. About 1498 Felim O'Connor, on condition of being set at liberty by Mac Dermot, gave him a fifth share of " Cuan- Sligigh." On this subject P. "W. Joyce remarks that " the most general word for harbour or haven is cucai ; and it is still employed everywhere round the coast. . . . The word cuan is also used, in an extended sense, to signify any curve or winding ; and whether in any particular case it is so used, or bears tho meaning of the harbour, is easily determined."

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 111

As the companion tells it

The town of Ballymote gives its name to a famous manuscript, the Book of Ballymote, and among its pages is a drawing of Noah's Ark that appears to represent a ship of the 14th century. The old inhabitants of Sligo do not, at any rate in historic times, seem to have been much addicted to a maritime life. The O'Dowds, however, seem at one period to have had a predilection for sea-roving. In the 12th and 13th centuries, several accounts are given in the Irish Annals of expeditions undertaken by them, and generally crowned with success. Later records touch the coast in other ways. Grants of the port-dues occur in 1420 and in 1449. About 1498, Felim O'Connor, on condition of being set at liberty by Mac Dermot, gave him a fifth share of Cuan-Sligigh. On this, P. W. Joyce remarks that the most general word for harbour or haven is cuan, and it is still employed everywhere round the coast. The word cuan is also used in an extended sense to signify any curve or winding, and whether in any particular case it is so used or bears the meaning of the harbour is easily determined.

Opposition coach service on Sligo–Ballina line, 1873

Ballina · townland · Mayo · 1873

In July 1873 an opposition service was started on the 87-mile Sligo and Ballina line, driving passenger fares down to a nominal rate. The competition reflected the lingering vitality of road transport before railways fully curtailed car business.

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and Castlebar," " The Enniskillen and Omagh," " The Strabane and Letterkenny " lines. Sliortly after the change in ownership some of these branches were considerably extended. In July, 1873, an opposition was started on the Sligo and Ballina line — a distance of 87 miles, and passengers were during that time carried for l.s. %d. Railways have, however, curtailed the amount of car-business so much, that the following lines alone are now continued by Mr. Walsh, i.e. "The Sligo and Ballyshannon," "The Sligo and Ballina," "The Ballina and Belmullet."

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 105

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in July 1873, an opposition coach service was started on the Sligo and Ballina line, covering 87 miles. The competition drove passenger fares down to one shilling and eightpence. It was a last show of vitality for road transport, before railways curtailed the car business. Mr. Walsh kept the Sligo and Ballina line running, along with the Sligo and Ballyshannon and the Ballina and Belmullet.

Phantom coach at Seaview, Tireragh

near Seaview · street · Sligo

At Seaview in Tireragh, a phantom coach driven by a headless coachman and drawn by four headless black horses is said to be driven along the avenue at certain periods.

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At Seaview, in Tireragh, there is said to be a phantom-coach which at certain periods is driven along the avenue leading to the residence. The coachman is headless, as are also the four black horses harnessed to the chariot. The question may be naturally asked, how does the coachman see to guide his team, and where does he place the bits to guide his four-in-hand ? His head is doubtless, as is usual with duUaghans, under his arm, but where are the heads of the four horses ?
There are other residences in the county where the sound of carriages driving along the approach to the house is frequently heard, generally, however, when there is a high wind. There is also a phantom boat, rowed by a crew of dullaghans, which at certain seasons of the year traverses the river Garvogue, from the lake to the sea ; sometimes the crew are visible, but often the oars move without any apparent agency.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 192

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Seaview, people say a phantom coach is driven along the avenue leading to the residence at certain periods. The coachman has no head, and neither do the four black horses harnessed to the chariot. The old question is asked how a headless coachman sees to guide his team, or where he places the bits. As with others of his kind, the dullaghans, his head is thought to be under his arm. But the heads of the four horses are unaccounted for.

Ragged school in Sligo during the Famine

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1846–1850

Before 1846 Rev. Noble Shepperd started a school in Sligo that was transformed during the Famine into a ragged school where children were supplied with food. After the period of distress ended it reverted to its original use but was closed when the Model School was established.

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Prior to 1846 Mr. Shepperd had started a school that was transformed, during the famine, into a ragged school, in which the children were supplied with food. When the period of distress was over it reverted to its original use, but was closed when the Model School was established. Mr. Shepperd died in August, 1875, and was succeeded by the Rev. James Sterling, who was followed in 1885 by the present minister, Rev. H. E. Bennett, B.A.
The plot on which the church and other buildings stand has been lately purchased, and is now the property of the congregation.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 71

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Sligo town. Before 1846 the Reverend Noble Shepperd started a school here that during the Famine became a ragged school, where children were supplied with food. When the period of distress was over it went back to its original use, but later closed when the Model School was established. Shepperd himself died in August 1875.

Rathcarrick fernery on Knocknarea slope

Rathcarrick · townland · Sligo

The Holly Fern (Aspidium lonchitis), though almost exterminated on Benbulben cliffs by fern dealers, grows freely in a fernery at Rathcarrick on the slope of Knocknarea, where it was planted several years previously.

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" The most interesting plant discovered by Messrs. Barrington and Vowell was Ejdlohium alsinifolium, an alpine species, not previously found in Ireland." Neither AlchemiUa alpiiia, nor Lyco- 2)odiHm alpinum, reported as having been found by Mr. J. Wynne, were observed. Saxifraga nivalis, which grows nowhere else in Ireland, is confined to one spot, and is now reduced to about thirty plants. Saxifraga oppox.it if olia is not rare. Foa alpina is a grass found in Ireland only on Benbulben, and on Brandon Mountain in Kerry. Thalictnim alpinum is confined to one very limited area, and difficult to reach. Adiantum capillm-veneris is reduced to a few plants in Glencar; and though Aspidiuni lonchitis is still plentiful, the fern dealers are destroying it (this fern has grown freely in a fernery at Rathcarrick on the slope of Knocknarea, where it was planted several years since). ^^Arabis petrcea is confined to a quarter of a mile of cliff in Grlenade."
Messrs. Barrington and Vowell's Paper is illustrated by an excellent map of the district, coloured and drawn on a scale of lialf an inch to the mile. As it affords reliable information with accurate references to localities it should be referred to by all who desire to study the Botany of Sligo. With it must be consulted a Paper prepared by A. Gr. More, f.l.s., m.r.i.a., " On the Heights attained by Plants on Benbulben," read before the Royal Irish Academy, December 10, 1883, which was drawn up from the incomplete notes and measurements left by Mr. Corry and his friend Mr. Dickson, whose death on Lough Gill has been mentioned. They explored Benbulben, Ben Weesken, and Knocknarea ; also Glencar and a mountain opposite Knocknarea, determining the elevation at which each species of plant was found.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 151

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Rathcarrick, there is a fernery on the slope of Knocknarea. The Holly Fern, Aspidium lonchitis, grows freely there. It was planted several years before the account was written. The same fern was still plentiful on the cliffs of Benbulben, but fern dealers were destroying it, pulling it from the rock for sale. The fernery here was a small refuge against that loss. The plant hunting in this district was carried out by Messrs. Barrington and Vowell. The most interesting plant they discovered was Epilobium alsinifolium, an alpine species not previously found in Ireland. Their paper was illustrated by a coloured map drawn at a scale of half an inch to the mile, with accurate references to localities. Other rarities were recorded across the range. Saxifraga nivalis grows nowhere else in Ireland and was reduced to about 30 plants in one spot. Poa alpina, a grass, was found only on Benbulben and on Brandon Mountain in Kerry. Adiantum capillus-veneris was down to a few plants in Glencar. Arabis petraea was confined to a quarter of a mile of cliff in Glenade. A further paper was prepared by A. G. More, read before the Royal Irish Academy on December 10, 1883, on the heights attained by plants on Benbulben. It was drawn up from incomplete notes left by Mr. Corry and his friend Mr. Dickson, whose death on Lough Gill has been mentioned. They had explored Benbulben, Ben Weesken, and Knocknarea, also Glencar and a mountain opposite Knocknarea, determining the elevation at which each species was found.

Relief ships arrive at Sligo port, 1746

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1746

In June 1746 two ships arrived in Sligo port with barley and oatmeal, lowering the price of those commodities. Provisions then became plentiful and salmon sold for a penny a pound, indicating a period of recent scarcity.

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in the year 1739 ; the crop in 1746 was again bad, for it is stated that between the 10th and 14th June two ships arrived in the port with barley and oatmeal, which lowered the price of those commodities ; provisions then became very plenty, and salmon sold for a penny a pound.
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.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 32

As the companion tells it

Sligo has known hunger more than once. The crop in 1746 was bad, and the town felt it. Then, between the 10th and 14th of June, two ships arrived in the port carrying barley and oatmeal. Those cargoes lowered the price of both commodities, and provisions became very plenty after that. Salmon sold for a penny a pound. The arrival of those ships meant relief, but it also tells you something had gone wrong. The years around it were hard too. In 1750, 1765, 1770, 1779, and 1784 the population suffered severely by placing their dependence on the potato crop. The worst of those years was 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. Towards the close of the century a small brass medalet was struck and stamped “Sligo Soup Ticket,” made when soup shops were opened under Government to relieve the distress of the poor.

Repeated canal projects linking Lough Gill to the sea

near Lough Gill · lake or lakes · Kerry · 1825–1846

In 1825 the gentry of Sligo petitioned the Lord Lieutenant for a canal connecting Lough Erne, Lough Allen, and Lough Gill to the sea. Merchants renewed the plea in 1839, and Acts of 1845–46 authorised the 'Sligo Ship Canal,' reviving a project surveyed at the century's start.

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Within this century no event occurred of greater importance to the interests of Sligo than the opening of the Midland Great Western Eailway to the town. A great many abortive attempts had been previously made to obtain speedy direct communication with Dublin, and elsewhere. In 1825, a memorial was presented to the Lord Lieutenant, from the gentry of Sligo, praying that a canal might be formed to connect Lough Erne with Lough Allen, and that again with Lough Gill, and thence to the sea. In 1839, the merchants of Sligo petitioned the Lords of the Treasury in favour of a caual to connect Lough Allen with Lough Gill, and Lough Gill with the sea ; and in
p 2

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 106

As the companion tells it

As you pass near Lough Gill, it's worth knowing this lake was at the heart of repeated efforts to link Sligo's waters to the sea. In 1825 the gentry of Sligo petitioned the Lord Lieutenant for a canal connecting Lough Erne, Lough Allen, and Lough Gill to the sea. The merchants renewed the plea in 1839, petitioning the Lords of the Treasury for a canal from Lough Allen to Lough Gill and on to the coast. Acts of 1845 and 1846 authorised the Sligo Ship Canal, reviving a project that had first been surveyed at the start of the century. All of this came to nothing once the Midland Great Western Railway reached the town, which the source calls the most important event for Sligo within the century.

Rosses Point transformed into tourist resort

Rosses Point · town · Sligo

Within a decade Rosses Point went from having a single thatched cabin hotel to boasting half a dozen fairly good hotels catering to tourists and lodgers. The arrival of steamers and cars in summer greatly increased visitor numbers, and the Greenlands provided a public promenade.

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The E/Osses Point' of to-day is a very different place from the Rosses Point of olden times. A decade has not passed since its sole hotel was a thatched cabin at the Sligo end of the village ;
' The Parochial District of Rosses Poiut owes its formation maiulj- to the exertions of the late Mrs. E. J. Cooper, of Markree Castle, who noticed the long-felt want of a place of worship for the many Protestant visitors to the seaside during the summer months.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 113

As the companion tells it

Rosses Point has changed greatly from older times. Within the past decade its only hotel was a thatched cabin at the Sligo end of the village. The parochial district of Rosses Point owes its formation mainly to the efforts of the late Mrs. E. J. Cooper of Markree Castle. She noticed the need for a place of worship for the many Protestant visitors who came to the seaside during the summer months.

Sligo Borough governance and missing Corporation records

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1612–1842

Sligo borough was administered by three distinct bodies: the Corporation, the Town Commissioners, and the Grand Jury, which together levied around £3600 to £3700 annually in rates. The Corporation's records from its creation in 1612 were unfortunately missing for nearly a century, though a list of Provosts from 1612 to 1842 was later compiled.

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The records of the Corporation of Sligo from its creation in 1612 up to the year 1709 — that is to say during a period of nearly one hundred years — are unfortunately missing, and the names of but few Provosts, during that long interval have as yet been ascertained.
Roger Jones was the first Provost; George Crofton, 1616, recommended as "fit to be inserted in the Commission of the Peace for the County Sligo" in that year; Robert Gamble, 1641-2; John Braxton, 1643; and during the reign of Charles II. there was a Captain Charles Collis. The remaining records of the election of CJiief Ofiicer of the Corporation commence in the year 1709, and are endorsed "A Booke of Record for the Burrough of Sligoe from y'' 21st of Ajml 1709." A list of Provosts as extracted from the above is given below^ From

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 49

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Sligo, the town was once run by three bodies: the Corporation, the Town Commissioners, and the Grand Jury, levying around £3600 to £3700 a year in rates. The Corporation was created in 1612, but its records for nearly a hundred years, up to 1709, are missing. Roger Jones was the first Provost, followed by George Crofton in 1616, Robert Gamble in 1641, and John Braxton in 1643. Under Charles II a Captain Charles Collis held the office. The surviving records begin in April 1709, endorsed "A Booke of Record for the Burrough of Sligoe." A list of Provosts from 1612 to 1842 was later compiled from what remained.

Sligo constituted a county by Sir Henry Sidney, 1568

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1568–1576

Sir Henry Sidney, Lord Deputy of Ireland, constituted Sligo as a county in 1568 under statute authority, but no Justices of Assize were sent into the county. It was left dependent on the discretion of a Governor armed with all the power of the State, and no sheriff was appointed until 1576.

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Sir Henry Sidney, Lord Deputy of Ireland, in 1568, hy virtue of the first of these Acts, constituted Sligo a county ; but no Justices of Assize were sent into the county, which xoas left dependent on the discretion of a Governor, armed loith all tlie poicer of the State. A sheriff does not appear to have been appointed until the year 1576, lohen Sir Henry Sidney, describing his proceedings with G' Conor Sligo, states that "■he desiered me to constitute a Sheriff %n his coimtrie, xoishinge rather a Forriner than any of the Soyles Bredc, which I graunted and sent one loith commission.'"
1576

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 267

As the companion tells it

You're passing through Sligo now. In 1568, Sir Henry Sidney, Lord Deputy of Ireland, constituted Sligo as a county by statute, but no Justices of Assize were ever sent into it. The county was left dependent on the discretion of a Governor, armed with all the power of the State. A sheriff was not appointed until 1576, when Sidney described his dealings with O'Conor Sligo, who asked him to constitute a sheriff in his country, wishing rather a foreigner than any of the soil's breed. Sidney granted the request and sent one with commission.

Sligo constituted a free Borough by James I

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1613

Under a royal charter passed on 30th March in the eleventh year of King James I's reign, Sligo was established as a free Borough. The charter created a corporate body of a Provost, twelve free Burgesses, and the Commonalty with powers to hold lands and elect parliamentary representatives.

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By Royal Letters Patent passed SOtli March, in the eleventh year of liis reign, the king ordained that the town, with all appertaining to it, sliould be one entire and free Borough of itself, by the name of " tlie Borough of Sligo," and that witliiu this Borough there should be one body corporate and politic, consisting of "one Provost, twelve free Burgesses, and tlie Commonalty," with powers for all future time to purchase, receive, and possess lands, tenements, and other goods, as w('ll as to dispose of the same ; tliere was a sweeping clause enabling them " to do and execute all and singularother deeds and things," also that this body so constituted could sue at law and be sued, and that they should have power to elect " two discreet and fit men " to serve in every Parliament.
The king nominated Roger Jones as first Provost of the Borough, and the following as the twelve free liuigesses: — Sir William TaalTe, Knight ; John St. Barbe,' Kdward Crofton,

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 45

As the companion tells it

As you come through Sligo, this town was made a free Borough by royal charter in 1613. On the 30th of March, in the eleventh year of his reign, King James I passed Letters Patent ordaining that the town should be one entire and free Borough, by the name of "the Borough of Sligo." The charter created a body corporate and politic, consisting of one Provost, twelve free Burgesses, and the Commonalty. For all future time, this body could purchase, receive, and possess lands, tenements, and other goods, and dispose of the same. There was a sweeping clause enabling them "to do and execute all and singular other deeds and things." They could sue at law and be sued. They also had power to elect "two discreet and fit men" to serve in every Parliament. The king named Roger Jones as the first Provost of the Borough. The twelve free Burgesses included Sir William Taaffe, a knight; John St. Barbe; and Edward Crofton.

Sligo Corporation resolves market fraud in turf and hay, 1800

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1800

In January 1800 the Sligo Corporation addressed frauds in turf and hay sold in the town market. Substandard loads were to be condemned and sent to prisoners in the gaol, House of Correction, or the Infirmary.

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"That from and after the first day of February next all turf brought to the town for sale in baskets or high loads shall contain three-fourth parts of the present turf barrel or standard barrel or measure for the sale of turf, and tluit any high load or load of turf carried on the back or backs of horses to tlie town for sale that shall be found to contain less than three-fourth parts of said turf barrels shall be decm'd a fraud, and on proof made thereof on oath of one credible witness before the Provost or on his view, or by confession of the party, it shall and may be lawful and he is hereby authorized to condemn and send the same
236 HISTORY OF SLIGO.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 118

As the companion tells it

Sligo town, coming up now. Back in January 1800 the Corporation here tackled a straightforward problem: fraud in the turf and hay sold at the town market. Sellers were bringing in loads that fell short of the standard measure. From the first of February that year, any load of turf found to contain less than three-fourth parts of the proper turf barrel was deemed a fraud. On the oath of one credible witness, or the Provost's own view, or the seller's confession, the substandard load would be condemned. And then it went to the prisoners, in the gaol, the House of Correction, or the Infirmary.

Sligo Improvement Bill defeated in Lords, 1868

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1868

The Sligo Borough Improvement Bill was passed by the House of Commons in 1868 but thrown out by the House of Lords for financial reasons. In Sligo, 427 voters and petitioners opposed the measure across party lines, with more than half being Liberals.

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was passed by the Commons, but thrown out by the Lords — for financial reasons. In Sligo, the Bill was not regarded as a party question ; of the 427 voters and persons who signed the petition against the measure, more than half were Liberals, the remainder Conservatives ; in the fight, all party ties were for the time dissolved, and every one " fought for liis own hand." Fortunately for the promoters, the Grand Jury of the County, after securing the interests of the ratepayers, did not oppose the Bill ; the points of difference were amicably arranged ; the Grand Jury waived their demand that population should be the basis of payment, and accepted instead the calculation based on valuation. This came to about one-twelfth of the valuation of the entire county ; though with regard to the inmates of Public Institutions such as the Gaol, Fever Hospital, Workhouse, &c., the proportion of numbers stood at 26, 30, and some as high as 60 or 70 per cent. The statement of the expenditure on the Borough during nine years by the Grand Jury of the County will demonstrate conclusively that the latter body, during this period, expended on the town a much larger annual sum than it was proportionately entitled to. It was presented to the committee of the House of Lords, by the County Surveyor, Noblett St. Leger, who was called as a witness by the promoters of the bill : —
Year.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 53

As the companion tells it

Coming through Sligo now, a town with a political story from 1868. That year the Sligo Borough Improvement Bill passed the House of Commons but was thrown out by the House of Lords for financial reasons. In Sligo it was not seen as a party question. Of the 427 voters and people who signed the petition against the measure, more than half were Liberals and the rest Conservatives, and as the source puts it, every one "fought for his own hand." The Grand Jury of the County, after securing the interests of the ratepayers, did not oppose the bill. The points of difference were amicably arranged. The Grand Jury waived their demand that population should be the basis of payment and accepted instead a calculation based on valuation, which came to about one-twelfth of the valuation of the entire county. The County Surveyor, Noblett St. Leger, was called as a witness by the promoters and presented a statement of expenditure on the borough during nine years to the committee of the House of Lords.

Sligo Lying-in Hospital and House of Refuge

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1804

In 1804, the Grand Jury voted £30 for training a nurse, and in 1819, fifty poor married lying-in women were attended. The old Infirmary was utilized for a House of Refuge, both discontinued after the introduction of dispensaries.

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Lying-in Hospital and House of IIefuge. — In the commencement of the century, i. e. in 1804, £30 was voted by the Grand Jury for the training of a proper nurse, whilst during the year 1819 " fifty poor married lying-in women were attended by the accoucheur." Notices regarding the institution occur from time to time in the columns of the local newspaper.
In aid of the " House of Eefuge," various sums of money were bestowed by individuals, and the moiety of fines levied in the Borough was also given in support of the House : the old Infirmary would seem to have been utilized for this purpose. Both these institutions appear to have been discontinued on, or shortly after, the introduction of dispensaries.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 79

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Sligo, there was once a lying-in hospital and house of refuge here. In 1804, the Grand Jury voted £30 for training a nurse, and in 1819, fifty poor married lying-in women were attended by the accoucheur. The old Infirmary was used for the House of Refuge, supported by private donations and half the fines levied in the Borough. Both institutions were discontinued after the introduction of dispensaries.

Sligo Militia disembodied at Limerick, 1814

Limerick · city · Limerick · 1814

After nineteen years of embodied service, the County of Sligo Militia received orders at Limerick in October 1814 to march back to Sligo for disembodiment at the conclusion of the European War. Colonel Armstrong issued a district order praising the officers and men for their discipline, steadiness, and intelligence.

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" The County of Sligo Militia having received Routes to march towards that county for the purpose of being disembodied. Colonel Armstrong cannot permit a corps that has so many claims on his attention and esteem to quit this District without endeavouring to express the high sense which he entertains of the ardent zeal and distinguished ability with which the Military duties of the Regiment have been uniformly conducted. To the Field Officers and Captains the greatest praise is due ; their excellent conduct and example as
D

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Limerick, this is where the County of Sligo Militia stood in October 1814, after nineteen years of embodied service during the European War. They received orders here to march back to Sligo for disembodiment. Colonel Armstrong would not let them leave the district without telling them what he thought of them. He praised their discipline, steadiness, and intelligence, and gave greatest credit to the field officers and captains for their conduct and example.

Sligo Militia rations and pay at Cahir

Caher · town · Tipperary · 1808

While the Sligo Militia was quartered at Cahir in 1808, the weekly rations and pay for each private were detailed, including 5 lbs of meat, 4 stones of potatoes, and a shilling per diem. The men also paid for their own lodgings.

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Again, in the year 1812, this entry occurs — "To am', of Militia money pd. Cap'. Tyler, £112 I2s. Sd." The pay of privates was a shilling per diem, and a penny for beer money ; they were obliged to pay for 5 lbs. of meat a week ; some eat bread, some " stirabout," and some potatoes, the quantity used of the last being four stone per week. The following was the scale per week for each private at the time the Regiment was quartered at Cahir, in the year 1808 : —
" 5 lbs. of meat at 4d. ; 4 stones of potatoes at l^d. ; washing 4d., barrack cook 1^. ; total 2s. Id. Any other food depended on the individual taste of the men ; some of them drank beer. One suit of clothes per annum was supplied by the Colonel at a cost of £2 10s. ; the men provided their own lodgings, received 4d. per diem as marching money or if sent on escort duty."

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is the town of Caher. In 1808 the Sligo Militia was quartered here, and the records set out exactly what each private lived on. A private's pay was a shilling a day, and a penny for beer money. The weekly scale for each man was 5 lbs of meat at 4d., 4 stones of potatoes at 1d., washing at 4d., and a barrack cook at 1d., coming to 2s. 1d. in total. Some ate bread, some ate what the source calls stirabout, and some ate potatoes, the last being four stone a week per man. Any other food depended on individual taste. Some of them drank beer. The Colonel supplied one suit of clothes a year at a cost of 2 pounds and 10 shillings. The men provided their own lodgings. They received 4d. a day as marching money, or if sent on escort duty. A later entry from 1812 records militia money paid to Captain Tyler, 112 pounds, 12 shillings and 6d.

Sligo Mills on the river Garvogue

Sligo · town · Sligo

Flour and corn mills on the river Garvogue in Sligo, driven by three undershot wheels, were in existence before the accession of Queen Elizabeth. By the 1890s they were devoted entirely to grinding maize, supplemented by a newer turbine-driven mill.

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Sligo Mills, on the river Garvogue, consist of a flour and a corn mill, driven by three undershot wheels, and have eiglit runs of 4| burrs, five of which are for flour and three for maize, but wheat has not been ground in the mill for some years, the entire machinery being now devoted to grinding maize. There is also an additional mill, recently erected, with eight pairs of 4^ feet burrs, driven by a Liffel turbine, and, in case of shortness of water, with a steam-engine. The firm has large storage accommodation near the quays, and also numerous kilns for drying oats. They are largely engaged in the direct importation of maize for their own and other millers' requirements in the district.
At Collooney, as at Sligo, the present mills occupy the site of much older concerns. The Sligo Mills were in existence before the accession of Queen Elizabeth, as were those of Rathbraghan and Ballincar.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 121

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Sligo, the river Garvogue here has powered mills since before Queen Elizabeth came to the throne. These flour and corn mills ran on three undershot wheels with eight runs of four-foot burrs, but by the 1890s wheat had not been ground for some years and the machinery was devoted entirely to grinding maize. A newer mill had recently been added, driven by a Liffel turbine, with a steam-engine for when the water ran short. The firm also kept large storage near the quays and kilns for drying oats, importing maize directly for their own use and for other millers in the district.

Sligo Port deep-water berth improvements

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1882–1889

Around 1882, Sligo Harbour Commissioners obtained a loan to construct deep-water berths but ran out of funds. Despite never receiving a free government grant, Sligo's port revenue grew by 60% over 25 years, contrasting with the decline of other western Irish seaports.

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If the proposed improvement be carried out it will result in an increase of revenue to the port, and also add to the prosperity of the district. The saving of lighterage alone would enable merchants to extend their district 20 or 30 miles further, and thus increase the imports in a corresponding ratio ; and taking into account that Sligo has steadily progressed, whilst other western seaports in Ireland have declined, there is every prospect tliat the advance will be repaid : during the last 25 years the import dues alone have increased about 60 per cent. The total revenue from this source in 1864- was £3019, in 1889 £4890. Sligo has never received a free grant of any description from Government for improvement of the port, but it was hoped that the Eoyal Commission which visited Sligo a few years ago would have recommended a grant for the purpose, so as to enable the fisheries to be developed ; they reported, however, tliat the interest of the port " might be left in the hands of its energetic inhabitants."
Prior to the famine of 1847 the exports of oats and oatmeal were very considerable, principally to London, Liverpool, and Glasgow; the importation of wheat and Indian corn from the Black Sea, the Levant, and Liverpool only commenced to any great extent about the year 1845.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 117

As the companion tells it

Coming through Sligo town now. Around 1882 the Harbour Commissioners took out a loan to build deep-water berths at the port, but the money ran out before the work was done. What happened anyway is the striking part. Over 25 years the import dues alone rose about 60 per cent. The revenue from that source was 3019 pounds in 1864 and 4890 pounds in 1889. Sligo progressed steadily while other western seaports in Ireland declined. Sligo never received a free grant of any kind from Government for improving the port. A Royal Commission visited a few years before and there was hope it would recommend a grant to help develop the fisheries. They reported instead that the interest of the port "might be left in the hands of its energetic inhabitants." Before the famine of 1847, exports of oats and oatmeal from here were very considerable, going principally to London, Liverpool, and Glasgow. The importation of wheat and Indian corn from the Black Sea, the Levant, and Liverpool only began about 1845. The proposed improvements, if finished, would save merchants lighterage costs and let them extend their district 20 or 30 miles further.

Sligo proprietors accept Dublin bank notes for rents, 1822

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1822

Owing to exceptional depression in trade and agriculture in 1822, a meeting of the principal proprietors of County Sligo resolved to accept notes of respectable private banks of Dublin in payment of rents. This arrangement aimed to improve prices for agricultural produce and stimulate business.

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In 1800 "money and paper were equally current." According to a report of the " Irish Exchange Committee," which was formed about four years subsequently, there was then no banker in Sligo, either in the town or county. In 1822, owing to the exceptional state of depression both in trade and agriculture, it was resolved at a meeting of the principal proprietors of the county that they would accept the notes of respectable private banks of Dublin in payment of their rents. This arrangement could not fail to lead to better prices for agricultural produce than the then limited circulation of paper-money would admit of, and also gave an impulse to business.
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

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 87

As the companion tells it

The town of Sligo has seen harder years than most. In 1822 trade and agriculture were both in an exceptional state of depression. At a meeting of the principal proprietors of the county, it was resolved that they would accept the notes of respectable private banks of Dublin in payment of their rents. The limited circulation of paper money at the time had been holding prices down. This arrangement could not fail to lead to better prices for agricultural produce, and it gave an impulse to business as well. Two decades earlier, in 1800, money and paper had been equally current in Sligo. But about four years after that, a report of the Irish Exchange Committee found there was no banker in Sligo, either in the town or the county. So when the proprietors agreed to take Dublin notes for their rents in 1822, they were working around a gap that had existed for years. The savings bank established for the working classes was not flourishing by June 1823, and was said to have been closed for some time, with no fund to pay a clerk.

Sligo wool trade emporium between Connaught and North

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1802

Writing in 1802, M'Parlan noted that Sligo was the wool trade emporium between Connaught and the North, with buyers coming to meet Connaught sellers and buying large quantities. The wool's value was artificially boosted by Farming Society premiums for Irish wool cloth.

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The trade was but trifling, although the county possessed every facility for this industry. M'Parlan, writing in 1802, states that " in the wool trade Sligo is the emporium between Connaught and the North, from whence numbers come to meet the Connaught sellers, and buy up large quantities of that article." The prices quoted in old newspapers appear, even in the present day, very high, but the value of the wool was fictitiously affected by the premiums offered by the Farming Society for the best piece of cloth manufactured with Irish wool.
This employment amongst the peasantry now no longer exists, but in 1886, one of the extensive mills at Collooney was, at considerable expense, converted into a woollen factory, fitted up with the newest and most approved machinery for converting home-shorn wool into fabrics of all descriptions.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 122

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Sligo, you're travelling through what was once the wool trade emporium between Connaught and the North. In 1802, M'Parlan wrote that numbers came to meet the Connaught sellers and buy up large quantities of that article. The wool's value was artificially boosted by premiums offered by the Farming Society for the best piece of cloth manufactured with Irish wool. That trade among the peasantry no longer existed by the time this history was written, though in 1886 one of the extensive mills at Collooney was converted into a woollen factory with new machinery for turning home-shorn wool into fabrics of all descriptions.

St. Anne's Church built by private subscription, 1843

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1840–1843

A picturesque little church called St. Anne's was completed in 1843 after funds were collected from 1840 onwards by Messrs. Phibbs, Walker, and Wood. The Latin inscription over the entrance door records that it was dedicated in honour of St. Anne and built by private contributions. A glebe-house was not erected until 1877.

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effected until 1840, when the project was taken up by Messrs. Phibbs, Walker, and "Wood. Funds were collected for the building, and also for permanent endowment of the new parish, but it was three years before the picturesque little church (St. Anne's) was completed, as shown by the inscription over the entrance-door : — In Honorem B. Ann^ Deo. 0. M. dedicata CERA PRivATORUM coLLATO CEDiFiCATA, A.D. 1843. The interior is striking, the general appearance being enhanced by several windows of stained glass ; the glebe-house, however, was not erected until 1877. Although under the control of the Synod of the Church of Ireland, yet the appointment to the parish is vested in trustees. The income is small, about £140 a year, derived from a lay rent-charge, payable out of the parish of Kilshalvey, union of Boyle, and from other sources. The incumbents were ; Eev. James Gully, 1842; Rev. John W. Chambers, 1861: Eev. Charles Hans Hamilton, 1864 ; Rev. William A. Day, 1867; Rev. Isaac Coulter, 1877; Rev. F. T. Hamilton, 1882 ; Rev. John Galbraith, 1884 — present incumbent.
In 1811 the old church of Killaspugbrone was repaired by the vestry of St. John's, and in 1814 the graveyard was enclosed with a wall. The expense of erecting the neighbouring Roman Catholic chapel was in great part defrayed by a church rate, for at an adjourned vestry meeting of the Union of St. John's, held 29th May, 1832, it was resolved—

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 69

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Sligo town, St. Anne's Church was completed in 1843 after three years of fundraising by Messrs. Phibbs, Walker, and Wood. The Latin inscription over the entrance door records that it was dedicated in honour of St. Anne and built by private contributions. The interior is striking, enhanced by several stained glass windows, though the glebe-house was not erected until 1877. The parish income is small, about £140 a year, derived from a lay rent-charge out of Kilshalvey parish, and although under the Church of Ireland Synod, the appointment to the parish is vested in trustees. The first incumbent was the Rev. James Gully in 1842, followed by several others through to the Rev. John Galbraith in 1884.

Stirabout road to Kilcumin Abbey ruins

Achonry · townland · Sligo

The road leading from the main line to the ruins of Kilcumin Abbey in the parish of Achonry was called 'Stirabout road,' likely because it was made or repaired to provide employment for the poor. This name predated the famine of 1846.

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^ The road leading from the main line to the ruins of the Abbey of Kilcumin (parish of Achonry) is called " Stirabout road," probably in allusion to its having been made, remodelled, or repaired, for the purpose of affording employment for the poor. It was so named, however, long prior to the famine of 1846.
liOADS, STREETS, AND COMMUNICATTOXS. (00

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 100

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is a road the locals called Stirabout road. It runs from the main line to the ruins of Kilcumin Abbey. The name likely comes from the road being made or repaired to give work to the poor. It was called that long before the famine of 1846.

The Observer newspaper office in Castle Street, Sligo

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1829

In October 1829 an organ of the advanced Roman Catholic party was launched in Sligo, printed and published by Hugh MacSweeny at The Observer office in Castle-street, with an annual subscription of one pound five shillings.

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" The "Western Luminary, or Sligo Impartial Reporter " was started in 1823, by Robert Hunter, and was Liberal in politics. A good many numbers of this paper are still extant ; it collapsed in 1829. Another newspaper was issued 9th October, of the same year, as an organ of the advanced Roman Catholic party ; it was " printed and published by the proprietor, Hugh Mac- Sweeny, every Thursday at ' The Observer ' office. Castle-street; annual subscription one pound five shillings."
" The Champion, or Sligo News " was launched in June, 1836. The price, formerly 3d., is now 2d. It is published every Saturday.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 203

As the companion tells it

Sligo in 1829 saw a newspaper take up the cause of the advanced Roman Catholic party. It was printed and published by the proprietor, Hugh MacSweeny, every Thursday at The Observer office in Castle Street. The annual subscription was one pound five shillings. That October launch came in the same year the Western Luminary, a Liberal paper started in 1823 by Robert Hunter, finally collapsed. So the town traded one paper for another, the new one sharper in its politics, carrying the Catholic cause into print each week from a narrow street in the centre of Sligo.

Tyreril True Blues meet at Collooney

Collooney · townland · Sligo · 1782

The first Tyreril True Blues, a Volunteer corps, met at Collooney on 1 April 1782 under the chairmanship of Rev. John Little. They added a resolution expressing devotion to a union with Britain and a willingness to share her fate.

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Yery similar resolutions were passed at a meeting of " The Ballina and Ardnaree Volunteers," held 28th March, Lt. Robert Jones in the chair ; likewise at a meeting of " The first Tyreril True Blues," held at Collooney, April 1, 1782, the Rev. John Little in the chair, to which the following was added : — " The chief wish of our hearts is to clasp our sister nation to our bosom and cement an indissoluble union between us, attached to her by every tie of affection and interest that can unite nations ; surrounded as she is by an host of enemies we are resolved to share her liberty and share her fate." Owing, however, to the conduct of the affairs of the Volunteers throughout the kingdom having fallen unto revolutionary hands, their old leaders abandoned them.
To prevent disturbances, and with the approbation of most of the supporters of the constitution of 1782, the regular army was largely increased, and the militia embodied. The Government finally ordered that all meetings of the Volunteers should be, if necessary, dispersed by force.

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 5

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, on the 1st of April 1782, a Volunteer corps called the first Tyreril True Blues held a meeting at Collooney. The Reverend John Little was in the chair. Similar resolutions had been passed days before by the Ballina and Ardnaree Volunteers, under Lieutenant Robert Jones. But the Tyreril True Blues added something of their own. They declared, in words from the source: "The chief wish of our hearts is to clasp our sister nation to our bosom and cement an indissoluble union between us, attached to her by every tie of affection and interest that can unite nations; surrounded as she is by an host of enemies we are resolved to share her liberty and share her fate." That was April 1782. What followed was not what these men imagined. The affairs of the Volunteers throughout the kingdom fell into revolutionary hands, and their old leaders abandoned them. The regular army was increased, the militia embodied. The Government finally ordered that all meetings of the Volunteers should be, if necessary, dispersed by force.

Victoria Bridge in Sligo Town

Sligo · town · Sligo

The Victoria Bridge in Sligo town, a five-arched ashlar masonry structure, is described as the finest of recently built bridges in the county. It replaced a narrow, tortuous eight-arched bridge formerly located a little below the present structure.

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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

Coming up through Sligo, you will cross the Victoria Bridge, the finest of the bridges built in the county in recent years. It is a five-arched structure of ashlar masonry, each arch 21 ft in span. It replaced an older eight-arched bridge that stood a little below this one, whose entrances were narrow and tortuous, so that two vehicles were only just able to pass each other. That old bridge appears on the seal of the Town and Harbour Commissioners.

William Ormsby of Willowbrook dropped as Borough MP (1776)

Willowbrook · townland · Sligo · 1757–1776

Wynne declined to nominate William Ormsby of Willowbrook, who had sat as one of the members for the Borough of Sligo from 1757 to 1776. Ormsby and Sir B. Gore then contested the County, were unsuccessful, and petitioned alleging bribery, corruption, treating, and other undue influences.

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In 1695 Arthur Cooper, of Markree, a defeated candidate, petitioned against the return of Wingfield and Morgan, alleging that he was duly elected instead of Morgan. In 1703 William Ormsby petitioned against the return made by the Sheriff who had declared the above two gentlemen again duly elected. In 1719 Joshua Cooper claimed a seat instead of Francis Ormsby as returned by the Sheriff. In 1776 Mr, Wynne declined to nominate' William Ormsby, of Willowbrook,
^ Nominees of patrons of Boroughs were expected to vote as the patron directed ; but some members of the old Irish Parliament were not exempt from political inconsistency. Curran, a great stickler for purity, offered a good example. " He first entered the House of Commons in Dublin as the nominee of Mr. Longfield, who was subsequently Lord Longueville. Curran sat for Kilbeggan ; but he stipulated that his action should be entirely unshackled, and that the patron of the Borough should not presume to influence his vote. Mr. Longfield, looking upon the stipulation as a formality for the ease of Curran's conscience, consented. A time came, however, when the nominee's vote highly displeased the patron, and a quarrel ensued. Curran could not resign his seat, for Irish members had not then the opportunity which the stewardsliip of the Chiltern Hundreds affords to legislators desirous of withdrawing from the responsibility of making laws; the honourable member for Kilbeggan, nevertheless, had a remedy for the difficulty. The independent Irish patriot offered to purchase a borough and a representative for it who should 7iever vote but in accordance loith Mr. Longjield's directions !^^

Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 18

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here was the seat of William Ormsby of Willowbrook. He sat as one of the members for the Borough of Sligo from 1757 to 1776. In 1776, Mr Wynne declined to nominate him. Ormsby then joined with Sir B. Gore to contest the County. They were unsuccessful, and petitioned alleging bribery, corruption, treating, and other undue influences. The Ormsby name appears in Sligo's earlier electoral disputes too. In 1703, a William Ormsby petitioned against the return made by the Sheriff, who had declared Wingfield and Morgan duly elected. In 1719, Joshua Cooper claimed a seat instead of Francis Ormsby. In 1695, Arthur Cooper of Markree petitioned against the return of Wingfield and Morgan, alleging he was duly elected instead of Morgan. Nominees of patrons were expected to vote as directed, but some members of the old Irish Parliament were not exempt from political inconsistency. The book gives the example of Curran, who first entered the House of Commons in Dublin as the nominee of Mr Longfield, later Lord Longueville. Curran sat for Kilbeggan but stipulated his action should be entirely unshackled, and the patron should not influence his vote. Longfield consented, looking on the stipulation as a formality for Curran's conscience. When the nominee's vote displeased the patron, a quarrel ensued. Curran could not resign, for Irish members had not then the opportunity the Chiltern Hundreds affords. The independent Irish patriot offered to purchase a borough and a representative who would never vote but in accordance with Mr Longfield's directions.

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

The stories, best first

Sligo wells analyzed and condemned for hardness and pollution

Tireragh barony hounds and the sporting clergyman

Tireragh ditches with apple trees

Trial and conviction of Sligo election officials for conspiracy (1858)

Weeping spectre on Knocknarea

Wesley's fourteenth and last visit to Sligo, May 1789

Wynne family controlled Sligo borough representation, 1723-1832

French fleet sighted off Sligo coast, panic in town

Protestant inhabitants flee barony toward Sligo for safety

Celebrated pipers of Sligo and the blind piper

Artisans' Dwellings built on Cadgers' Field, Sligo

Ballina and Ardnaree Loyal Volunteers raised, 1779

Bank failure of M'Creery and Ballantyne in Sligo

Buckley's Ford named from 1691 killing at Green Fort

Captain M'Dermott's petition for garrison expenses at Sligo

Captain O'Dowd's mountain road improvement near Banada

Cattle fed on fish and seaweed during coastal scarcity

Collapse of the Sligo herring fishery after 1783

Dermod and Grania's retreat in Tireragh barony

Dilapidated state of Sligo Fever Hospital

Duelling code settled at Clonmel Assizes, 1777

Elsinore, Cooper family property, hosted seaside worship

English relief contributions distributed in Sligo

Fatal football accident in Sligo, 1890 season

First Lough Gill yacht regatta, 1821

Friars move from abbey to High Street, Sligo

Glacial boulders forming Carrowmore monuments

Grand Jury street widening in Sligo town

High illiteracy among North Sligo voters, 1885–1891

Kilruisse church founded 1233 by Archdeacon of Elphin

Magnetic serpentine band at Lough Gill

Mass burials at Sligo Abbey grounds during cholera epidemic

Municipal Reform Act Divides Sligo into Wards

O'Crean family as merchant princes of Sligo, 14th–17th century

O'Dowd sea-roving expeditions in 12th-13th centuries

Opposition coach service on Sligo–Ballina line, 1873

Phantom coach at Seaview, Tireragh

Ragged school in Sligo during the Famine

Rathcarrick fernery on Knocknarea slope

Relief ships arrive at Sligo port, 1746

Repeated canal projects linking Lough Gill to the sea

Rosses Point transformed into tourist resort

Sligo Borough governance and missing Corporation records

Sligo constituted a county by Sir Henry Sidney, 1568

Sligo constituted a free Borough by James I

Sligo Corporation resolves market fraud in turf and hay, 1800

Sligo Improvement Bill defeated in Lords, 1868

Sligo Lying-in Hospital and House of Refuge

Sligo Militia disembodied at Limerick, 1814

Sligo Militia rations and pay at Cahir

Sligo Mills on the river Garvogue

Sligo Port deep-water berth improvements

Sligo proprietors accept Dublin bank notes for rents, 1822

Sligo wool trade emporium between Connaught and North

St. Anne's Church built by private subscription, 1843

Stirabout road to Kilcumin Abbey ruins

The Observer newspaper office in Castle Street, Sligo

Tyreril True Blues meet at Collooney

Victoria Bridge in Sligo Town

William Ormsby of Willowbrook dropped as Borough MP (1776)