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

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

1. Inhabitants desert Easky after cholera deaths

   Easky · town · Sligo · 1834

   In 1834 a slight return of cholera attacked country villages. In Easky, after five deaths occurred in a single day, the inhabitants deserted the village at the beginning of October.

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   The village of Ballysodare suffered very severely, and from tlie first outbreak of the cholera in that locality to its final disappearance, it is estimated that nearly one hundred deaths took place in the village and its immediate vicinity : the scenes in Sligo were here reproduced in a minor degree; tlie country j)eople drew a cordon round the devoted hamlet and prevented all egress, but the neighbouring village of Collooney escaped both in the year 1832, and also upon the reappearance of the malady in 1849. In 1834 there was a slight return of cholera, which, however, appears to have attacked only the country villages ; and in Easky five deaths having occurred in one day the inhabitants deserted it in the commencement of October.

   "Nowhere in Ireland," writes Inglis, "did cholera rage with such deadly violence as in Sligo ; and I found, in the year 1834, in the town when I visited it, the greatest dread of its reappearance, a few cases having appeared at Ballina and in some of the neighbouring villages."

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 39

   As the companion tells it

   The road is passing through Easky in Sligo now. In 1834 a slight return of cholera attacked the country villages. Five deaths occurred in one day, and at the beginning of October the inhabitants deserted the place. The wider county had already suffered. In Ballysodare nearly one hundred deaths took place from the first outbreak to the final disappearance, and the country people drew a cordon round the hamlet and prevented all egress. Collooney escaped both in 1832 and when the malady reappeared in 1849. Inglis visited Sligo town in 1834 and found the greatest dread of cholera's return. He wrote, "Nowhere in Ireland did cholera rage with such deadly violence as in Sligo." A few cases had appeared at Ballina and some neighbouring villages. For Easky, five deaths in a single day were enough to empty the town.

2. St. John's vestry votes £200 for sanitary measures

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1831

   On 22nd November 1831, the vestry of St. John's voted £200 for sanitary purposes and appointed officers of health. Sligo was poorly prepared for an epidemic, with few sewers discharging into the river used for drinking water by inhabitants.

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

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

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 35

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, this is a town that feared cholera in 1831. On the 22nd of November that year, the vestry of St. John's voted £200 for sanitary purposes and appointed officers of health. Quarantine was already being enforced at the port against ships from foreign parts. Sligo was poorly prepared for an epidemic. There were only a few short sewers in the town, and they all discharged into the river, the same water the inhabitants used for drinking and cooking.

3. Wages and cottier conditions near Sligo town

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1800

   At the beginning of the nineteenth century, labourers near Sligo town earned tenpence to one shilling per day without food. Cottiers generally received sixpence for a long day and fivepence for a short day, and for three pounds could rent an acre of grass for a cow, a cabin, and turbary rights.

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   Near the town the price for labour was at the beginning of this century tenpence or one shilliug per diem, without food except perhaps at harvest time ; cottiers in general were allowed sixpence the long day, and fivepence the short day, the wages, from 1776, having risen but 1^/. per diem. According to the quahty of the land, they paid for it different prices. For three pounds they generally received an acre of land, grass for a cow, together with a cabin and right of turbary. Those who were not cottiers, and were only occasionally employed, as in harvest time, or times of extreme pressure, got eightpence with breakfast and dinner, and in winter sixpence per day. In public works, such as making roads, &c., or labour on the quays, the common hire was Is. Id. per day.

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

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 171

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, this was a town where, around 1800, a labourer earned tenpence to one shilling a day, with no food provided except perhaps at harvest. Cottiers did worse, generally sixpence for a long day and fivepence for a short one, and wages had risen only a penny a day since 1776. For three pounds a year a cottier could rent an acre of grass for a cow, a cabin, and the right to cut turf. Men hired only at busy times got eightpence with breakfast and dinner, or sixpence a day in winter. Public works like road building or work on the quays paid one shilling and a penny, the best rate going. Then came the crash. After the Continental war ended, prices fell by more than half. Barley that sold for one shilling and eightpence a stone in 1815 dropped to eightpence the next year. A contemporary observer in County Sligo said the "golden age" ceased with the war, and peace, which elsewhere was counted a blessing, came to be seen as the greatest evil that could befall the people. Stock of all kinds fell at least a third in price, pigs by half, and potatoes, oats, and oatmeal lost much the same proportion, the very articles on which rent and family support depended.

4. Gentry houses plundered across Sligo barony

   Scurmore · townland · Sligo · 1798

   Sligo and Mayo insurgents plundered and in some cases demolished all the houses of the gentry. Principal sufferers included Mr. Nesbitt of Scurmore, Mr. Fenton of Easky, Mr. Brown of Fortland, and Mr. Grove, rector of Kilmacshalgan.

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

   James Crofton of Longford was absent from his residence, but his father, an aged but very resolute man, refused to leave, even after being informed that the rebels purposed to visit the house. The old man, who was bedridden, caused his couch to be placed across the front door, and informed his assailants that if they entered it should be across his body. They replied that

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 12

   As the companion tells it

   Close to Scurmore, in 1798, Sligo insurgents joined by those from Mayo plundered all the houses of the gentry, and some were even demolished. The principal sufferers included Mr. Nesbitt of Scurmore, along with Mr. Fenton of Easky, Mr. Brown of Fortland, and Mr. Grove, rector of Kilmacshalgan. At James Crofton of Longford's residence, his aged but resolute father refused to leave, even after being told the rebels were coming. The old bedridden man had his couch placed across the front door and told his assailants that if they entered it should be across his body.

5. Sligo loyalists claim £15,769 for 1798 rebellion losses

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1798

   The 'Suffering Loyalists' of County Sligo claimed £15,769 14s. 2d. for losses sustained in the 1798 rebellion, with claims adjudicated by a committee of Sligo magistrates and presented to parliamentary commissioners.

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   £15,769 14s. 2d. was claimed by the "Suffering Loyalists" of the County Sligo for their losses sustained in the rebellion of 1798, and which amount was laid before the Commissioners appointed by Act of Parliament for compensating them. The total foi all Ireland was £823,517 Qs. 4d.

   It is difficult to make out with any exactness the total sum allowed by the Commissioners in the County Sligo for these claims, for although there are printed lists, which appear to have been presented to Parliament, still amongst the papers on this subject preserved in the Record Office, supplemental grants seem to have been frequently made. The proceedings have in almost every instance been recorded, and will, for any person interested in the subject, repay perusal. [See Appendix B.)

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 13

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo town, you are in a place marked by the aftermath of the 1798 rebellion. The "Suffering Loyalists" of County Sligo claimed £15,769 14s. 2d. for losses sustained during the rebellion. This amount was laid before commissioners appointed by Act of Parliament for compensating them, part of a total of £823,517 claimed across all Ireland. It is difficult to make out the exact sum allowed in County Sligo, as supplemental grants were frequently made beyond the printed lists presented to Parliament.

6. Alderman Draper's charity school bequest

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1719–1808

   Alderman Draper's will of 1719 bequeathed £50 to the "charity Black-boys of the town of Sligo" for a charity school. By the close of the century, foundlings were sent to Dublin due to the nuisance of providing for them locally.

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   So early as the commencement of the eighteenth centurythere was a charity-school in the town of Sligo. Alderman Draper, in his will, dated 1719, bequeathed "to the charity Black-boys of the town of Sligo, the sum of fifty pounds sterling— which is now in the hands of Thomas Jennings, of Sligo, merchant, at interest, to be paid as my executors shall appoint and direct for the support of said charity-school." Towards the close of the century the manner of providing for foundlings and exposed children grew to be such an intolerable nuisance that the Vestry of the Union of St. John's refused to sanction any outlay, so that these waifs would appear to have been thenceforward sent to Dublin. The following are the numbers of admissions from the'county Sligo, into the " Foundling Hospital" in that city, during nine years and a-half up to the 31st December, 1808 :-1800, 3 ; 1801, 6 ; 1802, 4; 1803, 6 ; 1804, 8 ; 1805, 13 ; 1806, 23 ; 1807, 19, half-year 9 ; 1808, 13 ; total, 104.

   The Protestant Orphan Society — which may be viewed as but a continuation of the Cholera Orphan Society of 1832 — owes its origin to the " Friendly Brothers' Club," which used to meet in Sligo on March 17th in each year, and to make a collection from the members then present in aid of some charitable object. In the year 1837 — mainly through the influence of the Eev. William Armstrong, incumbent of Calry — it was considered that no better application of their annual collection could be made than devoting it to the support of the orphans of deceased Protestants, who had lived and died in their own county, leaving no adequate provision for their widows and children. Accordingly, in 1839, the society was formed, about the time that the " Dublin Protestant Orphan Society " also came into existence. A committee was named : —

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 79

   As the companion tells it

   Sligo had a charity-school as far back as the start of the eighteenth century. Alderman Draper, in his will dated 1719, left fifty pounds sterling, as he put it, to the charity Black-boys of the town of Sligo. The money was in the hands of Thomas Jennings, a merchant of Sligo, held at interest, to be paid as his executors should appoint and direct for the support of that charity-school. Towards the close of the century, the manner of providing for foundlings and exposed children grew to be such an intolerable nuisance that the Vestry of the Union of St. John's refused to sanction any outlay. From that point, those waifs would appear to have been sent to Dublin. The numbers of admissions from county Sligo into the Foundling Hospital in that city, over nine years and a half up to the 31st of December 1808, tell the story. In 1800, three. In 1801, six. In 1802, four. In 1803, six. In 1804, eight. In 1805, thirteen. In 1806, twenty-three. In 1807, nineteen, with a further half-year of nine. In 1808, thirteen. The total came to 104. Later, the Protestant Orphan Society owed its origin to the Friendly Brothers' Club, which used to meet in Sligo on the 17th of March each year and make a collection from members present in aid of some charitable object. In 1837, mainly through the influence of the Reverend William Armstrong, incumbent of Calry, it was considered that no better application of their annual collection could be made than devoting it to the support of the orphans of deceased Protestants who had lived and died in their own county, leaving no adequate provision for their widows and children. In 1839, the society was formed.

7. Ballysadare seized by rebels in 1798

   Ballysadare · townland · Sligo · 1798

   During the 1798 rebellion, Ballysadare fell into the hands of insurgents, and the bridge of Ballydrihed was being broken down, forcing Mrs. Jones and her party to escape by water rather than road.

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   almost starved. A letter from Mrs. Jones, describing her escape from Ai'dnaree, conveys a graphic idea of these disturhed times. She managed with difficulty to escape with her four children and some other refugees; all the servants had joined the rebels. It was not without dangers and adventui'es that she made her way to Fortland, the residence of her uncle, Mr. Brown, who had just abandoned the house. She then left for Tanregoe, the seat of her brother. Colonel Irwin, who was at that time in Wexford, with the Sligo Militia. Here she learned that the bridge of Ballydrihed was being broken down, and that Ballysadare was in possession of the rebels; therefore the only way of escape was by water ; so after tacking to and fro, and the water dashing over them in the boat, they were at last landed at the sand-banks, from whence they proceeded on foot to Ballydrihed — which was then in possession of Captain James Wood's corps of yeomanry — and continued their course to Sligo.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 13

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Ballysadare, in 1798, this place fell into the hands of the rebels. Mrs. Jones wrote a letter describing her escape from here with her four children and other refugees, after all the servants had joined the rebels. She made her way to Fortland, the residence of her uncle, Mr. Brown, who had just abandoned the house. She then left for Tanregoe, the seat of her brother, Colonel Irwin, who was at that time in Wexford with the Sligo Militia. There she learned that the bridge of Ballydrihed was being broken down and that Ballysadare was in possession of the rebels. The only way of escape was by water. After tacking to and fro, with the water dashing over them in the boat, they were at last landed at the sand-banks, from which they proceeded on foot to Ballydrihed. That place was then in possession of Captain James Wood's corps of yeomanry, and from there they continued their course to Sligo.

8. Camphill Mills at Collooney

   Collooney · townland · Sligo

   The Camphill Mills in Collooney comprised a flour mill, a corn mill and a saw mill, driven by two overshot wheels each 25 feet in diameter and 5 feet wide, plus a small turbine. They occupied the site of much older mills.

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   The Camphill Mills, situated in Collooney, consist of a flour, a corn, and a saw mill. They are driven by two oversliot wheels, each 25 feet in diameter, and 5 feet wide : there is also a small turbine. There are a few other mills scattered through the county.

   Some time between the years 1810 and 1820 Mr. Martin built, at the riverside, a distillery, over which Mr. Jameson acted as manager. On his departure to Dublin another manager was appointed in his stead ; but the work was not continued for any very lengthened period. After several years of idleness the distillery (in other hands) resumed work in 1836 ; but in 1845 was finally closed, and the premises allowed to go to utter ruin.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 121

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here are the Camphill Mills in Collooney. They consisted of a flour mill, a corn mill, and a saw mill, driven by two overshot wheels, each 25 feet in diameter and 5 feet wide, with a small turbine as well. They stood on the site of much older mills. Nearby at the riverside, some time between 1810 and 1820, a man named Martin built a distillery. Jameson acted as manager. When Jameson departed to Dublin, another manager took his place, but the work did not last long. After several years of idleness the distillery resumed work in 1836, under different hands. In 1845 it was finally closed, and the premises were left to go to utter ruin.

9. Convictions and reparations after Sligo riot

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1886

   Eleven persons were brought to justice for the 1886 Sligo riot; most pleaded guilty and received prison sentences. Roman Catholic subscribers raised funds to repair the damage inflicted by the mob on Protestant householders.

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

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

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 165

   As the companion tells it

   Sligo, in 1886, saw a riot whose damage fell on Protestant householders. The mob struck specific property: the piers of the wall of the Courtyard of the Cathedral at Sligo, the piers of the gate leading to the House called the Presbytery at Sligo, and the wall separating Catherine Tighe's house from the high-road, by knocking down and displacing the stones with which they were built. The law pursued those responsible, charging them with maliciously agreeing amongst themselves to commit the damage. Afterward, the Roman Catholics of the town raised subscriptions to make good the damage done to those Protestant householders. By the summer assizes of 1890, the Lord Chief Justice O'Brien addressed the Grand Jury and congratulated them on the county's condition. He noted the absence of criminal statistics, saying there was no subject-matter of that description to deal with. He said boycotting was practically non-existent in the county and the constabulary return was most satisfactory. He added that he trusted this favourable and happy state of things would continue. Since that period both county and borough have been models of peace and quiet.

10. Development of Sligo Harbour Quays

    Sligo Harbour · harbour · Sligo · 1822

    The original quay of Sligo Port was located directly beneath the walls of Sligo Castle. Over the 19th century, various quays were built or acquired, including the Fish Quay in 1822 and the Ballast Quay, giving nearly a mile and a quarter of quayage.

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    The primitive quay of the Port was immediately under the walls of the Castle and just below the mills, for, according to an old document of the 18th century, it is stated that "the Fort is upon the river, which is navigable to the Fort and no further." The Fish Quay was built in 1822 ; the entire length is but 200 feet. The old quay and slip is 250 feet in length ; next comes Cochrane's Quay, 200 feet — a private undertaking, which was purchased by the Harbour Commissioners from the then proprietor — as a connecting link between the town and the 'Custom House Quay (;300 feet) ; Lynn's Dock has been filled in, and the Quay for 580 feet runs along its former entrance ; the Ballast Quay (1430 feet) was constructed after the passing of 9 Vict. c. 24 ; from it springs the Extension Quay to the deep-water berths, 2700 feet — giving a total length of quayage of nearly a mile and a quarter.

    During the past fifty years Sligo has witnessed many changes in maritime trade and commerce. Tlie introduction of steam revolutionized here, as elsewhere, the system by which

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 116

    As the companion tells it

    The harbour quays of Sligo grew from a primitive quay immediately under the walls of Sligo Castle and just below the mills. An old document of the 18th century states that "the Fort is upon the river, which is navigable to the Fort and no further." The Fish Quay was built in 1822, its entire length but 200 feet. The old quay and slip is 250 feet in length. Next comes Cochrane's Quay, 200 feet, a private undertaking purchased by the Harbour Commissioners from the then proprietor, serving as a connecting link between the town and the Custom House Quay, which is 300 feet. Lynn's Dock has been filled in, and a quay for 580 feet runs along its former entrance. The Ballast Quay, 1430 feet, was constructed after the passing of 9 Victoria, chapter 24. From it springs the Extension Quay to the deep-water berths, 2700 feet, giving a total length of quayage of nearly a mile and a quarter.

11. Felim O'Connor cedes share of Cuan-Sligigh, 1498

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1498

    Around 1498, Felim O'Connor, on condition of being set at liberty by MacDermot, gave him a fifth share of 'Cuan-Sligigh' (the harbour of Sligo). The word 'cuan' is noted as the most general Irish term for harbour or haven, still employed everywhere round the coast.

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    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."

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    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 111

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are travelling by a harbour whose dues were granted out in 1420 and again in 1449. Around 1498, Felim O'Connor, on condition of being set at liberty by MacDermot, gave him a fifth share of Cuan-Sligigh, the harbour of Sligo. The word cuan is the most general Irish term for harbour or haven, and Joyce notes it is still employed everywhere round the coast. It can also mean any curve or winding, but which sense applies is easily determined.

12. Flooded road between Sligo and Boyle, January 1829

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1829

    In January 1829 the road between Sligo and Boyle was flooded to a depth of five feet in places, forcing the Dublin mail to take a circuitous route and depart earlier at 11 o'clock each morning. The disruption highlighted the vulnerability of overland communications in winter.

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

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 105

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are on a road that in January 1829 was flooded to a depth of five feet in places between here and Boyle. The water was so deep that the Dublin mail had to take a circuitous route and start every morning at 11 o'clock to make up for the time lost. It was a stark reminder of how vulnerable overland travel was in winter, when a road could simply disappear under water and force the mail to find another way.

13. Friendly Brothers Knot established in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    The Friendly Brothers association, instituted by disbanded officers of William III's army, established 'Knots' in several Irish towns including Sligo. These were originally formed for mutual support against Jacobites who provoked quarrels and duels.

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    An association styled " The Friendly Brothers " was instituted by disbanded officers of William III.'s army; "Knots," many of which exist to the present day, were founded in several cities and towns — as in London, Bath, Cork, Waterford, Dublin, Mallow, Sligo, &c. The " Knots" are alleged to have been originally formed for mutual support and aid against the Jacobites, who endeavoured to provoke personal quarrels and duels. The President was always known as " Sir Friendly . . . . " instead of by his Christian name. There was also an inner circle, known as " The Select," who were entitled to wear special badges.

    The association had a pew in St. Patrick's Cathedral, where service was attended on the 17th of March by the Brethren, wearing their decorations. In the club books in Dublin, the names are given of many members who acquired celebrity : Dean Swift (for a time at least) is reputed to have belonged to this order. In the club rooms, Dublin, Schomberg's sword is still preserved. The medal worn by the ordinary members is described in Dr. Frazer's Medalists of Ireland. This society was prominent in benevolent schemes, and frequently discharged the debts of poor prisoners confined in gaol.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 206

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this town once held a Knot of the Friendly Brothers, an association instituted by disbanded officers of William the Third's army. Knots were founded in several cities and towns, London, Bath, Cork, Waterford, Dublin, Mallow, and Sligo among them. They were originally formed for mutual support and aid against the Jacobites, who endeavoured to provoke personal quarrels and duels. The president was always known as Sir Friendly, instead of by his Christian name, and there was an inner circle called The Select who wore special badges. The association had a pew in St. Patrick's Cathedral, where the brethren attended service on the 17th of March wearing their decorations. Dean Swift is reputed to have belonged to the order for a time. In the Dublin club rooms Schomberg's sword was preserved. The society was prominent in benevolent schemes and frequently discharged the debts of poor prisoners confined in gaol.

14. Half of Achonry district on rations during famine

    Achonry · townland · Sligo · 1846–1847

    In the district of Achonry, containing 20,000 souls, one half were receiving rations by the month of June during the famine years.

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    Soup-kitchens were opened in various localities, and these were principally supported by private subscriptions; in Upper Leyny alone, nine soup-kitchens were kept up at a weekly expenditure of £75. "In the district of Achonry, containing 20,000 souls, one half were receiving rations in the month of June ; and forty corpses, the wretched remains of persons who had succumbed to starvation, were awaiting the coroner (at one time) in the district of Magherowe."

    The then rector of Bally mote is credited with having secured the earliest assistance for his parishioners during the first year of this famine. He had written to the committee in Dublin, praying for instant relief, and in reply received a letter which commenced "we are tliinking," &c.; his laconic retort had the

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in the district of Achonry, the famine pressed hard in 1846 and 1847. The district held 20,000 souls. By the month of June, one half of them were receiving rations. Soup-kitchens had opened in various localities, supported mostly by private subscriptions. In Upper Leyny alone, nine soup-kitchens ran at a weekly cost of £75. The need was great, and the dead waited too. Forty corpses, the wretched remains of persons who had succumbed to starvation, lay at one time awaiting the coroner in the neighbouring district of Magherowe. The rector of Ballymote is credited with securing the earliest help for his parishioners that first year. He wrote to the committee in Dublin praying for instant relief. The reply began, "we are thinking," and his retort was laconic.

15. Holy wells of Ahamlish parish

    Ahamlish · parish · Sligo

    The parish of Ahamlish contains St. Bridget's and St. Molaise's wells, among the numerous holy wells of County Sligo. Though many such wells have lost their sacred character, they remain notable features of the religious landscape.

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

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 179

    As the companion tells it

    Among the holy wells still numerous across County Sligo, though many have lost their sacred character, Ahamlish parish holds St. Bridget's and St. Molaise's wells. Beranger, at the close of the last century, made reference to Tobernacoragh, or 'the well of assistance.' He states that the inhabitants of Inismurray, all Roman Catholics, seemed very innocent, good natured, and devout.

16. Infirmary surgeons lost to cholera and fever epidemics

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1832–1849

    Surgeon William Bell, in office at the Sligo County Infirmary since 1813, died of cholera in 1832. His successor Dr. Thomas Little also succumbed to a similar epidemic in 1849. Both deaths highlight the deadly infectious disease outbreaks that struck Sligo in the nineteenth century.

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    century. Surgeon William Bell was in office in 1813, died of cholera in 1832, when Dr. Thomas Little was appointed. In 1849 he succumbed to a similar epidemic, and was succeeded by Dr. W. S. Little. In 1877 the present surgeon, E. Mac Dowal, was appointed.

    In the year 1813 a medal in connexion with the " County Sligo Infirmary " was struck by William Stephen Mossop, a well-known artist, having on it a view of the building. The medal is mentioned by W. Frazer, M.D., in his essay " On the Medallists of Ireland and their Work.''

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 77

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town saw two of its infirmary surgeons lost to epidemics within a generation. Surgeon William Bell, in office at the County Infirmary since 1813, died of cholera in 1832. Dr. Thomas Little was appointed in his place, but in 1849 he too succumbed to a similar epidemic. He was succeeded by Dr. W. S. Little, and in 1877 the surgeon appointed was E. Mac Dowal. A medal connected with the County Sligo Infirmary was struck in 1813 by William Stephen Mossop, a well-known artist, bearing a view of the building.

17. Kelp shipped from Mullaghmore to Glasgow

    Mullaghmore · town · Sligo · 1770–1883

    The small remaining kelp manufacture from around Easky (Eaughly) was shipped from Mullaghmore to Glasgow. This trade was part of the broader coastal kelp industry that had once doubled the coast population of Sligo.

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    practically dead in Sligo. The little that is yet made in Tireragh is shijoped from Sligo, and from about Eaughly it is shipped from Mullaghmore to Glasgow. This manufacture has thus been carried on in the district with varying success, so much depending on the weather : when the season is favourable for drying the Avraek, even when prices are low, it still yields a fair return for the labour expended, but in bad weather great trouble and time are expended for A^ery trifling remuneration. The coast line of Sligo is more thickly populated than parts remote from the sea, and this may fairly be accounted for by the fact that it was at all times largely inhabited by fishermen. When kelp-burning was established, the inhabitants of the neighbouring districts flocked to the littoral, and the profits of this industry were so great that fishing was practically abandoned ; the coast population was doubled, but the fisheries were no longer worked.

    Young, in his Tour in Ireland, stated that about 1777 vast quantities of kelp^ were burned along the Tireragh littoral, but it was then made only during the summer season, for in winter or spring the farmers used the wrack as manure. The shore was very fruitful in seaweed, and a rent was paid for it by the ton of what was obtained. In Wakefield's Ireland it is observed that kelp was used by the Irish bleachers, and was made along the coast of Sligo.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 125

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Mullaghmore, a town on the Sligo coast. In the late 1700s and 1800s, kelp was burned here in great quantities along the Tireragh shore, and what was made around Easky was shipped from this harbour to Glasgow. The trade depended heavily on the weather. When the season was good for drying the wrack, even low prices still gave a fair return for the labour, but bad weather meant great trouble and time spent for very trifling pay. The shore was rich in seaweed, and a rent was paid by the ton for what was taken. In 1777, Young wrote in his Tour in Ireland that vast quantities of kelp were burned along the Tireragh coast, but only in summer, because in winter and spring the farmers used the wrack as manure. When kelp-burning was established, people from the neighbouring districts flocked to the coast, and the profits were so great that fishing was practically abandoned. The coast population of Sligo was doubled, but the fisheries were no longer worked. Kelp was also used by the Irish bleachers, made along the coast of Sligo.

18. Limited Mail from Sligo to Dublin commences 1885

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1885

    After repeated petitions about serious delays in letter delivery, an accelerated mail service to and from Dublin was granted. The 'Limited Mail' commenced running on 12 October 1885, completing the journey in only four hours.

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    On January 25th, 1858, the Postmaster- Greneral was petitioned to have the Sligo mail conveyed between Mullingar and Longford by rail, instead of by car. He granted the request, and it continued to be so carried till the completion of the line at the close of 1862. Then, and long subsequently, the postal arrangements seem to have been very defective. In June, 1882, the Postmaster-General was petitioned in regard to the serious delay in delivery of the letters from England and elsewhere, whilst again, December 22nd, 1884, his attention was drawn to the requirements of Sligo in relation to an accelerated mail service to and from Dublin. This was granted, and the " Limited Mail " to Dublin commenced to run on October 12th, 1885, the time occupied being only four hours. The journey from London to Sligo can be now accomplished in little over fifteen hours, including an hour's break in Dublin. The Government subsidy for this train amounts to about £12,000 per annum.

    The actual revenue derived from the postal system of the town has been increasing steadily and rapidly, as the following return of the Sligo post office and district demonstrates : —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 108

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Sligo, this was a town that fought for years to get its letters delivered on time. People petitioned in 1858 to carry the mail by rail between Mullingar and Longford instead of by car, but postal arrangements stayed defective long after. In 1882, the Postmaster-General was petitioned again about serious delays in delivery of letters from England and elsewhere, and on December 22, 1884, attention was drawn to the need for an accelerated mail service to and from Dublin. The "Limited Mail" commenced running on October 12, 1885, completing the journey to Dublin in only four hours, with the full London to Sligo trip taking little over fifteen hours including an hour's break in Dublin. The Government subsidy for this train ran to about £12,000 per annum.

19. Mirages observed off the Tireragh coast

    Tireragh · barony · Sligo

    A correspondent described seeing a remarkable mirage off the Tireragh coast over half a century earlier, resembling a large city with trees, houses, spires, and castellated buildings. Such mirages were said to be not uncommon along this coast.

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    Mirages are not uncommon. A correspondent writes — " I myself, upwards of half a century ago, saw a wonderful mirage, resembling that lately described as having been visible off our Tireragh coast, and had I been looking on the bay for the first time, nothing could have persuaded me but that I was gazing at a veritable city — a large and handsome one, too — trees, houses, spires, castellated buildings, &c."

    The enchanted Island of Hy Brazil ^ was seen off the coast in the year 1885 ; this vision forebodes — so it is alleged — national trouble.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 194

    As the companion tells it

    Through Tireragh in Sligo, the coast shows things that are not there. Mirages are not uncommon. A correspondent wrote that he himself, upwards of half a century earlier, saw a wonderful mirage resembling one lately described off the Tireragh coast. Had he been looking on the bay for the first time, nothing could have persuaded him but that he was gazing at a veritable city, a large and handsome one too, with trees, houses, spires, and castellated buildings. The enchanted island of Hy Brazil was seen off the coast in 1885, a vision alleged to forebode national trouble.

20. New Sligo Fever Hospital opened 1822 amid rising fever

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1822–1832

    The new Fever Hospital in Sligo, erected at the joint expense of the county and Edward Synge Cooper, M.P., was occupied by 29 May 1822 with no fewer than thirty-eight patients. Fever cases were daily increasing due to the distress of the poor. A decade later, just before the cholera outbreak, the hospital was nearly empty.

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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 town holds the story of a hospital built for fever. The new Fever Hospital was erected at the joint expense of the county and Edward Synge Cooper, member of Parliament, in 1822. The inscription over the door records this. The old hospital had stood in a completely isolated position on the green headland westward of the present Victoria approach to the town, and remained there for a lengthened period until the new edifice was built. On the 29th of May 1822, it was announced that the new Fever Hospital had been occupied and contained no less than thirty-eight 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, and they demonstrated this. The hospital later fell into 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 the opinion that a central hospital was not required. The oldest records of the hospital have disappeared, so that a complete list of physicians is not procurable. The medical men in charge of the Fever Hospital since 1822 were Drs. Irwin, Coyne, Knott, Homan, Lynn, and Murray.

21. Observer appalled by Sligo burial grounds

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    A visitor to the north-west of Ireland was horrified by the condition of the burying grounds in Sligo, particularly at the Abbey and St. John's Churchyard. The visitor recommended prohibiting further burials there, excavating and removing remains to a new cemetery, and converting the neglected, pestilence-spreading graveyards into ornamental grounds.

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    A stranger lately visiting tlie north-west of Ireland was horrified at the state of the burying grounds in Sligo, and made many observations and suggestions much to the following effect : — Burials, both in the Abbey and in St. John's Churchyard, should be prohibited and inter-mural interment prevented by public opinion, supported, if necessary, by legislative enactment. The Abbey grounds should be excavated, levelled, and the bones, skulls, and other fragmentary remains conveyed to the new cemetery, decently interred, and a monument erected over them to denote the fact, as has been done in other localities. The monuments and tombstones in the Abbey should be removed to the side walls, and the entire area converted into an ornamental garden. The removal of a few houses along the river side would open up and improve the place, convert a neglected and pestilence-spreading grave-yard into ornamental and healthgiving grounds. The Abbey proper might be guarded with iron gates ; a similar arrangement has been made in other places so transformed.

    In olden days Sunday — as a time devoted to repose or religion— terminated after mass, the residue of the day being occupied by ball-playing, cake-dancing, and other entertainments.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 201

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo, a town a traveller to the north-west of Ireland came to know, and what he found here appalled him. The burying grounds horrified him, the Abbey and St. John's Churchyard above all. He said burials in both places should be prohibited, and interment within walls prevented by public opinion, backed if need be by law. The Abbey grounds, he said, should be excavated and levelled. The bones, skulls, and other fragmentary remains should be conveyed to the new cemetery, decently interred, and a monument erected over them to denote the fact, as has been done in other localities. The monuments and tombstones in the Abbey should be removed to the side walls, and the entire area converted into an ornamental garden. He went further. The removal of a few houses along the river side would open up and improve the place, and convert a neglected and pestilence-spreading graveyard into ornamental and health-giving grounds. The Abbey proper might be guarded with iron gates, an arrangement made in other places so transformed.

22. Peter O'Connor's bell gift to Sligo Cathedral

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1877

    In March 1877, Peter O'Connor of Sligo presented a peal of nine bells to the Cathedral, the largest weighing twenty-six cwt. The self-acting carillon machine could play forty-five tunes across seven barrels.

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    It is computed that the cathedral holds 4000 people seated, and that it cost upwards of £50,000. In March, 1877, a peal of nine bells, the largest of which weighs twenty-six cwt., was presented by Peter O'Connor, of Sligo, and hung in the tower. The carillon machine, which is self-acting, is barrel-shaped, and by its workings no less than forty-five tunes can be played. There are seven barrels, of which three are for sacred, and four for secular music.

    The vestry adjoining the cathedral is built in corresponding style. Members of the St. Vincent de Paul Society here hold their weekly conference ; their labours are of benefit to the deserving poor of the town.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 64

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Sligo now. The cathedral here cost upwards of £50,000 and holds 4000 people seated. In March 1877, Peter O'Connor of Sligo presented a peal of nine bells to the cathedral, the largest weighing 26 cwt, and they were hung in the tower. The carillon machine is self-acting and barrel-shaped, and by its workings no fewer than 45 tunes can be played. There are seven barrels, three for sacred music and four for secular.

23. Priest fee agitation and riots at Skreen and Achonry

    Skreen · parish · Sligo · 1843

    In 1843, agitation against priest fees spread from Mayo to Sligo. Roman Catholic parishioners of Skreen and Achonry adopted the "new rules," but after several meetings and many riots, the majority of parishes decided to resist the movement.

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    In 1843 there was a revival amongst the peasantry of the agitation against the fees charged by their priests. The movement appears to have originated in Mayo, whence it spread to Sligo. The lloman Catholic parishioners of Skreen and Achonry adopted the " new rules ; " but after several meetings had been held, the majority of the parishes decided to resist the movement. There were, however, many riots before the agitation quieted down.

    328 HISTORY OF SLIGO.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 164

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through the parish of Skreen, this was one of the places caught up in the agitation against priest fees in 1843. The movement began in Mayo and spread into Sligo. Catholic parishioners here and in Achonry adopted what were called the new rules. Most parishes resisted after several meetings, but there were many riots before things quieted down.

24. Sligo–Boyle mountain road and the Cloverhill bypass

    Knocknashammer or Cloverhill · townland · Sligo · 1700–1800

    The old mountain road to Boyle was too steep for wheeled vehicles, so a new road was made from Sligo to Ballydrihed by Cloverhill, passing through Ballysadare, Collooney, Knockbeg old village, Heathfield and Earlsfield to Ballymote, then over the Curlews to Boyle. Primitive milestones survive on similar old lines.

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    When carriages or wheeled vehicles came to be more generally employed, the road to Boyle over the mountains was found to be too steep, and the road from Sligo to Ballydrihed by Cloverhill was made. It would seem to have passed thence through Bally sadare, Colloouey, and Knockbeg old village ; by Heathfield and Earlsfield to Ballymote ; from this it most likely took the old direction by Battlefield over the Curlews to Boyle. Sign-boards bearing peculiar inscriptions invited the wayfarer within the precincts of roadside inns ; one of these, situated in the village of Ballinafad, at the foot of the Curlew Mountains, bore the invitation : —

    ** Friends, slip in and take a gill, 'Twill serve to help j-ou up the hill."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 99

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Knocknashammer or Cloverhill, the old mountain road to Boyle once ran, but it was too steep once wheeled vehicles and carriages came into wider use. So a new road was made from Sligo to Ballydrihed by Cloverhill, running through Ballysadare, Collooney and Knockbeg old village, then by Heathfield and Earlsfield to Ballymote, and most likely on over the Curlews to Boyle. Roadside inns along these old lines put up sign-boards with peculiar inscriptions to draw the traveller in.

25. Sligo granted charter of the Staple for wool trade

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1621

    About eight years after the initial borough charter, King James I granted Sligo a charter of the Staple, giving the Corporation the right to hold a public mart. This allowed merchants to export manufactured wool articles from the port of Sligo without duty to encourage local industry.

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    the raw material had been exported to foreign parts and in foreign vessels, to the serious prejudice of the sale and retail of the trade of the kingdom, and to the great impoverishment of all concerned. Full licence was therefore granted to export various manufactured articles from the port of Sligo, without duty, and Rogi^r Jones, Esq., Edward Carpenter, Andrew Crean, Edraond Braxton, Richard Robbins, John Hopkins, John Woodward, John O'Fewley, Robuck Crean, William Crean, James French, and John French, Merchants, were constituted a body corporate to have a perpetual succession, by the name of " The Mayor, Constables, and Society of the Mercliants of the Staple." This body could choose from amongst themselves yearly a Mayor and two Constables for the government of the Merchants of the Staple, in the same manner as was customary in England, and they could sue and be sued at law, and could assemble for business whenever they thought necessary, and had power to admit into the society merchants and " other fit persons," with power to appoint under-officers for a period of twelve months ; they could make such by-laws as they might deem expedient to the same extent as the Merchants of the Staple in England. This body was given full powers to trade in all kinds of wool, woollen stuffs, yarn, and hides, with all ports in Ireland and, subject to some light duties, with the cities of London, Bristol, and Chester, and the towns of Barnstaple, Liverpool, and Millthorp, together with other privileges and immunities ; also to purchase and hold lands, &c. ; but these were not to exceed £10 per annum of clear annual profit.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 46

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo town, you are in a place that was once a wool trading centre. In 1621, about eight years after Sligo received its borough charter, King James I granted the town a charter of the Staple. The raw wool had been exported to foreign parts in foreign vessels, to the serious prejudice of the trade of the kingdom. So full licence was granted to export manufactured articles from the port of Sligo without duty. Twelve merchants were constituted a body corporate called "The Mayor, Constables, and Society of the Merchants of the Staple." They were Roger Jones, Edward Carpenter, Andrew Crean, Edmond Braxton, Richard Robbins, John Hopkins, John Woodward, John O'Fewley, Robuck Crean, William Crean, James French, and John French. Each year they could choose from among themselves a Mayor and two Constables, governing in the same manner as the Merchants of the Staple in England. They could sue and be sued, admit new members, appoint under-officers for twelve months, and make by-laws. They traded in wool, woollen stuffs, yarn, and hides with all ports in Ireland, and with London, Bristol, Chester, Barnstaple, Liverpool, and Millthorp subject to light duties. They could hold lands, but not exceeding 10 pounds per annum of clear annual profit.

26. Sligo Journal printed in Castle Street from 1771

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1771

    The Sligo Journal and Weekly Advertiser, a Conservative newspaper, was first issued around 1771 and printed by Michael Parker in Castle-street, Sligo. Its heading device was used by the Sligo Corporation as a seal for many years.

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    During a lengthened period Sligo possessed a local organ of public opinion which appears to have been Conservative in political tendency. The title of the newspaper was " The Sligo Journal and Weekly Advertiser." The first known series of this paper commenced in 1771, but it is probable there was an even earlier issue. It was printed on Tuesdays and Thursdays by Michael Parker, in Castle-street, price three half-pence, and the device on the heading of the paper (see fig. 62) served the Sligo Corporation, for many years, in lieu of a seal. The articles in the early numbers were very strongly worded, but as a rule they dealt in broad political facts, not in personalities, for in those days men who were held up to public ridicule or libelled, took the remedy into their own hands and relieved the law-courts of great trouble, by the substitution of " a small-sword for a declaration, or a case of pistols for a judgment."

    Difiiculties arose occasionally, as for instance when on the 14th May, 1791, an " Immergency " meeting of the Masonic body was called by Brother Thomas Soden, of Lodge No. 530, against Brother Michael Parker, proprietor of the " SKgo Journal," charging him with having published in his paper a letter tending to reflect upon Soden's conduct as "Billeting master for the town of Sligo "; whilst on the 5th February, 1796, Brother William M'Mullen complained that Brother Joseph Hudson, had " advertised him for defamation of character."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 203

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo had a local newspaper called the Sligo Journal and Weekly Advertiser, which began in 1771, though there may have been an even earlier issue. Michael Parker printed it in Castle-street, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, at a price of three half-pence. The paper was Conservative in its political tendency. The device printed on its heading was used by the Sligo Corporation as a seal for many years. The early articles were strongly worded, but they dealt in broad political facts rather than personalities. In those days, men who were held up to public ridicule or libelled took the remedy into their own hands, relieving the law courts of trouble by the substitution of "a small-sword for a declaration, or a case of pistols for a judgment." Trouble arose on the 14th of May 1791, when an emergency meeting of the Masonic body was called by Brother Thomas Soden of Lodge No. 530, against Brother Michael Parker, the proprietor of the Sligo Journal. Soden charged Parker with publishing a letter tending to reflect upon his conduct as billeting master for the town. Later, on the 5th of February 1796, Brother William M'Mullen complained that Brother Joseph Hudson had advertised him for defamation of character.

27. Sligo officers rewarded and punished during 1832 cholera

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1832

    During the 1832 cholera epidemic, the Town and Harbour Commissioners of Sligo reduced the salaries of officers who deserted their duty, while rewarding constables John Williams and Robert Boyd three pounds each for faithfully discharging their duties during the crisis.

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    to present a testimonial to one gentleman, who had been indefatigable in liis exertions, it was remarked that he had only done his duty, and that if given to him, it would have to be given to all. The Commissioners for improving the Town and Harbour of Sligo, in this respect however, showed a good example, for at a meeting held on 26th November the salary of two of their officers was considerably reduced, in consequence of their having deserted their duty "during the awful period when the town was visited with cholera." On the other hand, it was resolved that "John Williams and Robert Boyd, town and harbour constables, do receive the sum of three pounds each in consequence of the manly and faithful manner in which they discharged their duty and conducted themselves during the period of cholera in the town." All regular business had been suspended ; for example, the secretary of the Commissioners wrote on the 28th November to express his regret at not sooner replying to a letter, as the Board liad only just met "for the purpose of arranging business that should have been done in August."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 36

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town that was visited by cholera in 1832. The epidemic was so severe that regular business was suspended for months, and the Commissioners for improving the Town and Harbour could not meet to arrange business that should have been done in August. On the 26th of November that year, they held a meeting and considerably reduced the salary of two of their officers, who had deserted their duty, in the words of the source, "during the awful period when the town was visited with cholera." The same Commissioners rewarded two men who did not desert. John Williams and Robert Boyd, the town and harbour constables, each received three pounds, in the board's words, "in consequence of the manly and faithful manner in which they discharged their duty and conducted themselves during the period of cholera in the town."

28. St. Leger's bridges across County Sligo

    Aclare · electoral division · Sligo

    Several bridges in County Sligo — including Annagh over the river Moy, Carrowcullen on the road from Ladies' Brae to Skreen, Aclare, and Curry — were built as monuments to County Surveyor Noblett St. Leger's engineering skill.

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    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.

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 101

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes through Aclare, it crosses one of the bridges that remain as monuments to County Surveyor Noblett St. Leger's skill as an engineer. The bridges of Annagh over the river Moy, Carrowcullen on the road from Ladies' Brae to Skreen, Aclare, Curry, and many others of less note, all stand as evidence of his work. In August 1877, the bridges of Cabragh and Enniscrone were destroyed by a sudden flood and rebuilt at a cost of 550 pounds. The bridge over the Easky river was rebuilt at an expense of 700 pounds, and a new bridge over the river Owenbeg near the village of Billa was erected at a cost of 500 pounds. Only one iron bridge exists in the county, erected during the relief-works of 1880-1881 over the river Moy on the new road from Tubbercurry to Sessue, with 40 feet clear span and about 17 tons of iron, costing about 550 pounds with the abutments.

29. The Eglone standing stone near Highwood

    Highwood · townland · Sligo

    Limestone blocks rest on the Upper Limestone north of Lough Arrow near Highwood, including a 70-ton rectangular column called the Eglone standing 18 feet high, and a rocking-stone. These blocks were originally united until split off by weathering.

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    Between Tubbercurry and Oloonacool large boulders of mica schist are plentiful, increasing in number as the hills are approached. Their position and size force us to believe that ice was the only adequate transporting agent. Some limestone blocks may also be mentioned that rest on the Upper Limestone at Ilighwood, north of Lough Arrow. These are interesting from their shape and size. One styled the " Eglone," a rectangular column, weighing some 70 tons, stands 18 feet high, to which were originally united two adjacent masses of rock, till split off by weathering. Another is a rocking-stone. More than a mile to the west, in the townland of Carrickglass, a tabular block (about 70 tons), that has peat and heather growing on the top, forms the covering-stone of a so-called " giant's grave."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 134

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Highwood, north of Lough Arrow, the Eglone stands as a rectangular column of limestone, 18 feet high and weighing some 70 tons. It rests on the Upper Limestone alongside other blocks. Two adjacent masses of rock were originally united to the Eglone, until weathering split them off. Another of these blocks is a rocking-stone. Between Tubbercurry and Oloonacool, large boulders of mica schist are plentiful, increasing in number as the hills are approached. Their position and size suggest ice was the only adequate transporting agent. In Carrickglass, a tabular block of about 70 tons, with peat and heather growing on its top, forms the covering-stone of a so-called giant's grave.

30. Tubbercurry Union Workhouse established 1850

    Tobercurry · town · Sligo · 1850–1890

    The Tubbercurry Union was formed on 23rd February 1850, comprising twenty-one electoral divisions with 125,774 acres. The workhouse cost £7,400 to erect, funded by a free Government grant, and paupers previously maintained in Sligo and Swinford workhouses were transferred there.

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    The Tubbercurry Union consists of twenty-one electoral divisions ; the area 125,774 acres ; the valuation (in 1888) £40,768, and the population 25,721. The union was formed 23rd February, 1850, the paupers belonging to the district having been previously maintained in the Sligo and Swiuford Workhouses. The cost of erecting the building, including the purchase of twelve statute acres of land, was £7400, and the Government made a free grant of the amount.

    The number of paupers chargeable to this union on its formation was 198 indoor, and 3 outdoor.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 84

    As the companion tells it

    Tobercurry in Sligo was the centre of a union formed on the 23rd of February 1850, covering 21 electoral divisions and 125,774 acres. Before the workhouse here opened, paupers from the district had been maintained in the Sligo and Swinford workhouses. The building, with twelve statute acres of land, cost £7,400, paid by a free Government grant. On formation, 198 indoor paupers and 3 outdoor were chargeable to the union. By 1888 the valuation was £40,768 and the population 25,721.

31. Volunteers resist French advance at Ballina bridge over the Moy

    Ballina · townland · Mayo · 1798

    When the French marched from Killala on Ballina, a few volunteers made some resistance at the bridge spanning the Moy, but many of them being Roman Catholics, they immediately fled on the appearance of the French.

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    When the French marched from Killala on Ballina, some resistance was made at the bridge which spans the Moy by a few volunteers ; but many of these were Roman Catholics, and on the appearance of the French they immediately bolted.

    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.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 12

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in 1798, a few volunteers tried to hold the bridge over the Moy when the French marched from Killala on Ballina. But many of those volunteers were Roman Catholics, and when the French appeared, they immediately fled. The Protestant inhabitants of the barony feared both the French and the rebels, and with no troops stationed anywhere along the road from Ballina to Sligo, they fled to Sligo for protection. Protestant farmers were seen retreating on foot, driving their cattle and sheep before them, and carrying their wives and children on carts with whatever goods they could take.

32. Wesley's second visit to Sligo, May 1760

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1760

    Wesley visited Sligo again on 16 May 1760 and found the congregation so increased that a large and commodious apartment was procured for services. The need for a proper place of worship became clear.

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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

    Up ahead is Sligo, a town John Wesley passed through several times. In May 1758 he rode in from Drumsna through Ballymote, Collooney, and Ballysadare for his first visit, and found the prospect so encouraging that arrangements were made for regular visits by a minister stationed in Castlebar. On 16 May 1760 Wesley came again and found the congregation so much increased in number that he saw the need of providing a comfortable place to hold services. A large and commodious apartment was procured. In 1775 the first Methodist Chapel was erected in Bridge Street, small and low with a thatched roof, and by then Sligo had become the head of a Circuit with two ministers. Wesley made his fourteenth and last visit on 20 May 1789 and was entertained in the barracks by the Quartermaster of the 1st Dragoons. Around that time Gideon Ouseley settled in the town and 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, addressing people in their native Irish tongue, and crowds gathered around, listening eagerly and respectfully. In 1797 Ouseley moved to Ballymote and delivered many outdoor addresses.

33. Wretched cabins on Curlew range near Ballinafad

    Ballinafad · townland · Sligo · 1834

    In 1834 the traveller Inglis described the road between Ballinafad and Boyle through the Curlew range as a wild and very poor country, with cabins indistinguishable from mud-heaps and scarcely any cultivation visible around them.

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

    u 2

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 145

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Ballinafad, the road through the Curlew range was described by the traveller Inglis in 1834. After leaving Lough Arrow the road ascended considerably and passed through what he called "a wild and very poor country." The cabins were "not to be distinguished from the mud-heaps around." They were "fully as black and no bigger, and built of the same material," with "scarcely a patch of cultivation being visible around any of them." In 1840, the proprietors of large estates started a county Agricultural Society for the improvement of tillage farming amongst the tenantry. Until a late period, many parts of the county remained in a backward condition.

34. Salmon fishing at Kilmacteige by the rector

    Kilmacteige · townland · Sligo · 1800

    At the commencement of the nineteenth century the Rector of Kilmacteige was reported to have killed 160 salmon in fourteen successive days with a rod and single fly, illustrating the superior quality of salmon sport in Sligo before the rivers were preserved.

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    Grood salmon-fishing may be had on the Drumcliff river, the lake of Glencar, Lough Gill, at Bally sadare, at Easky, and on the Moy ; but these places are all preserved, and tlie sport is certainly not so good as at the commencement of this century, when the Rector of Kilmacteige is reported to have killed, with his rod and single fly, 160 salmon in fourteen successive days !

    396 HISTORY OF SLIGO.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 199

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Kilmacteige, around 1800, the rector here was reported to have killed 160 salmon in 14 successive days, with his rod and single fly. Sligo's rivers held salmon sport of a quality that has since faded. The Drumcliff river, Glencar lake, Lough Gill, Ballysadare, Easky, and the Moy all offered good fishing, but they are now preserved, and the sport is certainly not what it was.

35. 1790 Sligo County election: Wynne family loses the seat

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1790

    The 1822 election was described as a renewal of the struggle of 1790, when the Wynne family lost the Sligo County seat. The opposing factions' war-cries were 'Wynne and Perceval' and 'Martin and King'.

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    As the candidates ran a neck-and-neck race the polling was watched with the greatest interest, for it was but the renewal of the struggle of 1790, when the Wynne family lost the seat — tlie war-cry of the opposing factions being " Wynne and Perceval," " Martin and King," thus bringing into prominence the names of the supporters of the respective candidates.

    The local papers were filled with accounts of the trials of persons indicted at the ensuing spring assizes for riot. One witness, an ex-drummer, described himself as " poet and balladsinger " to one of the candidates. " I am told," said the lawyer, wlio cross-examined him, " that you were a noisy fellow." " Yes, sir," replied the ex-soldier, "I used to beat the tattoo ! "

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 19

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town has seen its share of political battles. In 1790 the Wynne family lost the Sligo County seat, and the opposing factions raised their war-cries: "Wynne and Perceval" against "Martin and King." Years later, in 1822, another election was fought as a renewal of that same struggle, the candidates running neck and neck while the polling was watched with the greatest interest. The local papers were filled with accounts of trials at the spring assizes for riot. One witness, an ex-drummer, described himself as "poet and balladsinger" to one of the candidates. The lawyer who cross-examined him said, "I am told that you were a noisy fellow." The ex-soldier replied, "Yes, sir, I used to beat the tattoo."

36. 400 tons of potatoes arrive as free gift at Sligo port

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1822

    During the famine period, 400 tons of potatoes arrived at the port of Sligo as a free gift, while the Government through the Linen Board also gave a grant of flaxseed to the amount of £200 for distressed tenants in the County.

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    Early in the month of June a large amount inpi-ivate donations had been received from local sources b}^ the committee, and the Grovernment, through tlie medium of the linen Board, gave a grant of flaxseed to tlie amount of £'2UU for the benefit of distressed tenants in the County. At the same period also 400 tons of potatoes arrived in the port as a free gift.

    One of the district visitors stated that amongst a great number of cottages at which he called about breakfast hour, there were not more than six in which he could observe any

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 34

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this was a port town where famine relief arrived in 1822. That June, local donations had already come in to a committee, and the Government gave a grant of flaxseed worth 200 pounds through the Linen Board for distressed tenants in the County. At the same time, 400 tons of potatoes arrived in the port as a free gift. A district visitor reported that among a great number of cottages he called at around breakfast hour, there were not more than six in which he could observe any food at all.

37. Bag-nets abolished and restored at Enniscrone and Streedagh

    near Inishcrone · town · Sligo · 1863–1866

    Sea-fishing bag-nets at Enniscrone, Streedagh, Mullaghmore, Rosskeeragh, and Drumore West were abolished by the Act of 1863. After a Fishery Inspectors inquiry in 1866, nets at Enniscrone and Streedagh were restored, with 34 nets subsequently employed at Enniscrone alone.

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

    Before the opening of the railway to Ballina in 1865, all salmon — about 500 boxes annually — caught on that part of the Mayo and Tireragh shore were shipped by steamer to Liverpool from the port of Sligo.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Inishcrone in Sligo, you're travelling a coast once lined with salmon bag-nets. An Act in 1863 abolished the nets at Enniscrone, Streedagh, Mullaghmore, Rosskeeragh, and Drumore West. But after a Fishery Inspectors inquiry in 1866, the nets at Enniscrone and Streedagh were restored. At Enniscrone alone, 34 nets were put back to work, each 400 yards long. From Easky to Aughris, 18 boats fished with nets of equal length. Before the railway reached Ballina in 1865, about 500 boxes of salmon a year from this shore were shipped by steamer to Liverpool from the port of Sligo.

38. Ballintogher wind rain superstition in Sligo

    Ballintogher · town · Sligo

    Around Sligo town, a wind blowing from the direction of Ballintogher was traditionally believed always to bring rain. The superstition was well enough known that a Sligo native recognised a fellow-townsman on an Atlantic crossing by his reference to a 'Ballintogher wind'.

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    Sligo also had its observations as to winds from different quarters — for instance, about the town, a wind blowing from the direction of Ballintogher is supposed always to bring rain. On a mail-boat crossing the Atlantic a native of Sligo recognized a fellow-townsman by the answer made to his remark that there was heavy rain with a southerly wind : '* What can you expect but that from a Ballintoglier wind ? "

    CHAPTER XXVir.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 194

    As the companion tells it

    Near Sligo, Ballintogher gave its name to the weather. People about Sligo town held that a wind blowing from Ballintogher's direction always brought rain. The belief travelled far. On a mail-boat crossing the Atlantic, a Sligo man met a fellow-townsman when the stranger answered talk of heavy rain with a southerly wind by saying, what can you expect but that from a Ballintogher wind.

39. Barroe cursing stones and vanished holy well

    Barroe · townland · Sligo

    About two miles from Ballysummaghan, in Barroe near Bloomfield, stood a similar set of cursing stones under ash trees beside a dried-up holy well. The well was said to have moved after its profanation by unbelievers, and the stones have since disappeared.

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

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 183

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Barroe, there were once cursing stones, standing under ash trees beside a holy well. The well has since dried up. The story goes that unbelievers profaned it, and the waters broke out in another spot. The stones themselves have now disappeared. These cursing stones were like another set at Ballysummaghan, about two miles away, where there were originally seven stones called the Summaghan stones. People used them to curse. The ceremony was like the one on Inismurray, but the person had to go barefoot and bareheaded. Those stones were once thrown into a neighbouring lake, yet were found the next morning back in their accustomed place. Both cursing sites were the special heritage of the Summaghan family, and the last victims were members of that same sept. The O'Summaghan missed a firkin of butter and accused a neighbour of stealing it. The neighbour stoutly denied it. So O'Summaghan performed stations at Barroe and at Ballysummaghan, but the result was not what he expected. His wife and son both died. It was his wife who, being in debt, had taken the firkin of butter with her son's help, carried it into Sligo, and sold it to pay her bills. There was a way to avert the curse: the person against whom the stones were turned could have a grave dug and cause himself to be

40. Basking sharks captured off the Sligo coast

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1884

    Basking sharks, thirty to forty feet long, were formerly numerous off the Sligo coast in summer. In 1884 two specimens nearly thirty feet long were captured, but their combined value had fallen to no more than £30 due to foreign competition.

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

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town sits near a coast that was once rich with fish and whales. Toward the close of the last century, the Irish Parliament gave a grant to promote whale fishing, but it was discontinued shortly afterwards. The spermaceti whale occasionally frequents this littoral. The bottlenose whale appears in shoals and follows the herrings and other migratory fish into the bays and inlets. As fishermen express it, the appearance of these whales is one of the signs of fish. The basking shark, or true sun-fish, varies in length from 30 to 40 feet, and in the summer months they were formerly numerous off the Sligo coast. The value of the spermaceti whale at the commencement of the century was very great, and that of the basking shark was £45. Foreign competition has now reduced that amount considerably. In 1884, two basking sharks, each nearly 30 feet in length, were captured, and their combined value did not exceed £30. The Sligo coast fishery extends from Ballina Bridge to Mullaghmore. In 1850, it employed 575 registered vessels, with 3263 men and boys. In 1853, the number of vessels had decreased to 216, and the crews to 1269. By 1888, in the whole extent of coast from Ballina Bridge to Donegal Abbey, 20 miles in excess of the former limits, there were but 209 boats with 889 men.

41. Charter-school House used as Sligo barracks, 1855

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1855–1856

    On 8 February 1855, the Sligo Militia was re-embodied as a rifle corps, with the Charter-school House in Sligo pressed into service as a temporary barracks. The regiment was shortly afterwards moved to Longford and finally disembodied on 25 August 1856.

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    On the 8th February, 1855, the Regiment was embodied, and it then appeared as a rifle corps, tlie Charter-school House being used as a temporary barracks. The regiment was shortly after moved to Longford : and on the 25th August, 1856,^ it was disembodied. In the year 1877 it was compulsorily trans-

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are near the Charter-school House, which in 1855 was pressed into service as a temporary barracks. On the 8th of February that year, the Sligo Militia was re-embodied as a rifle corps, and this building housed them. The regiment was shortly afterwards moved to Longford and finally disbanded on the 25th of August, 1856. That same year, an old army pensioner named Allen Armstrong, living in Sligo, received a cheque for £19 from the Private Secretary of the Emperor Napoleon. Armstrong had served 30 years in the army and was stationed at St. Helena when Napoleon was confined there. His wife had acted as washerwoman to the Emperor. When this was brought to the notice of Napoleon the Third by a memorial, the remittance followed. Armstrong had fought in eleven battles against Napoleon the First, and by a strange chance received a gratuity from his successor.

42. Coote's regiments stationed in Sligo before the 1688 Revolution

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    Detachments from Colonel Richard Coote's and Sir Charles Coote's regiments of horse and foot appear to have been stationed in Sligo before the Revolution of 1688, awaiting land allotments before settling as farmers. The Book of Survey and Distribution annotates several land denominations as 'Trustees for the Barracks,' and Sir Richard Coote's regiment was later redesignated Collooney's Regiment.

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    Some kind of local military organization must have existed in Sligo prior to the Eevolution of 1688, otherwise it would be difficult to account for the celerity with which the Protestants of the county had been concentrated, armed, and disciplined. These men were in great part descendants of members of Colonel Richard Coote's Regiment of Horse, Colonel Sir Charles Coote's Regiment of Horse, and his Regiment of Foot. Numerous statements with regard to these regiments are to be found amongst the public records, but one entry relating to Comet Cooper will suffice. It recites that " the Claym' purchased y* Debentures hereafter mentioned from y^ persones hereunder, and after named, whose Lotts fell in y® county of Sligoe, in Coll. Coote's owne Regim* and Troope"; he also purchased lots in Sir Charles Coote's Reg*^. Sir Oliver St. George's Troope " as well as in Sir Charles Coote's Regm* of ffoote." The various detachments from the above-named corps appear to have been stationed in Sligo until lands were allotted to them, and they exchanged the sword for the ploughshare. In the column of remarks in "the Book of Survey and Distribution " several denominations of land are annoted " Trustees for y^ Barracks."

    " Sir Richard Coote's Regiment of Horse (now y^ L''. Collooney's Regt.") From this entry^ it would appear that the Regiment, although disbanded, was liable to be called up

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Sligo, you are passing through a town that held a military presence before the Revolution of 1688. Some local military organization must have existed here, otherwise it would be hard to account for the speed with which the Protestants of the county had been concentrated, armed, and disciplined. These men were in great part descendants of members of Colonel Richard Coote's Regiment of Horse, Colonel Sir Charles Coote's Regiment of Horse, and his Regiment of Foot. An entry in the public records relating to Comet Cooper recites that he purchased debentures from persons whose lots fell in the county of Sligo, in Colonel Coote's own regiment and troop. He also purchased lots in Sir Charles Coote's Regiment, Sir Oliver St. George's Troop, and Sir Charles Coote's Regiment of Foot. The various detachments from these corps appear to have been stationed in Sligo until lands were allotted to them, and they exchanged the sword for the ploughshare. In the Book of Survey and Distribution, several denominations of land are annotated Trustees for the Barracks. Sir Richard Coote's Regiment of Horse was later redesignated Lord Collooney's Regiment. The regiment, although disbanded, remained liable to be called up.

43. Dermod and Grania's bed monument at Castlecarragh

    Castlerock or Castlecarragh · townland · Sligo

    Among the Sligo sites associated with the legend of Dermod and Grania's flight from Finn, a rude stone monument known as their 'bed' is located at Castlecarragh, part of a widely-spread Celtic tradition.

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    This Celtic legend was one of the most widely-spread ; for the Irish-speaking peasant still designates some of the rude stone monuments in Ireland as tlie " beds of Dermod and Grrania " ; and accounts for them by alleging that they were erected by Dermod as a shelter for his wife when they were flying from before the wrath of Finn. There is a " Dermod and Grania " bed in the townland of Carrickglass, another in that of Carrownagh, also at Castlecarragh, &c. There are legends of the magical boar at Benbulben, at Cloonmaeduff, near Colloony, and at Scurmore. The celebrated cavern of Glenift" is called also Dermod and Grania's bed ; and this seems to be the only instance within the County Sligo in which the story of the runaway couple is connected with any object save that of a rude stone monument.

    Until a comparatively recent period these popular legends were still recounted by the local shannachien. In 1815 Wake-Iield met one of these in " the neighbourhood of Nymphsfield," who repeated a long history in Irish, which he called the Poems of Os/ieen, meaning probably the poems of Ossian. What he rehearsed seemed to be a confused legend which the man had learned by heart ; for, when interrupted, he could not proceed without beginning again.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 191

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Castlerock or Castlecarragh there is a rude stone monument that Irish-speaking peasants call the bed of Dermod and Grania. The story behind it is one of the most widely-spread Celtic legends. Dermod is said to have erected these stones as a shelter for his wife when they were flying from the wrath of Finn. Similar beds are found in Carrickglass and Carrownagh, and here at Castlecarragh as well. The legend reaches across Sligo in other forms too. There are tales of a magical boar at Benbulben, at Cloonmaeduff near Colloony, and at Scurmore. The cavern of Gleniff is also called Dermod and Grania's bed, and that seems to be the only place in County Sligo where the runaway couple's story is tied to something other than a rude stone monument. These legends were kept alive by the local shannachien, the storytellers who recited them from memory. In 1815 a man named Wakefield met one of these storytellers in the neighbourhood of Nymphsfield. The man repeated a long history in Irish, which he called the Poems of Ossian. What he rehearsed seemed to be a confused legend he had learned by heart. When interrupted, he could not proceed without beginning again.

44. Dermod and Grania's bed monument in Carrownagh

    Carrownagh · townland · Sligo

    A rude stone monument in the townland of Carrownagh is identified by Irish-speaking peasants as one of the 'beds of Dermod and Grania,' shelters said to have been built by Dermod for his wife during their flight from Finn.

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    This Celtic legend was one of the most widely-spread ; for the Irish-speaking peasant still designates some of the rude stone monuments in Ireland as tlie " beds of Dermod and Grrania " ; and accounts for them by alleging that they were erected by Dermod as a shelter for his wife when they were flying from before the wrath of Finn. There is a " Dermod and Grania " bed in the townland of Carrickglass, another in that of Carrownagh, also at Castlecarragh, &c. There are legends of the magical boar at Benbulben, at Cloonmaeduff, near Colloony, and at Scurmore. The celebrated cavern of Glenift" is called also Dermod and Grania's bed ; and this seems to be the only instance within the County Sligo in which the story of the runaway couple is connected with any object save that of a rude stone monument.

    Until a comparatively recent period these popular legends were still recounted by the local shannachien. In 1815 Wake-Iield met one of these in " the neighbourhood of Nymphsfield," who repeated a long history in Irish, which he called the Poems of Os/ieen, meaning probably the poems of Ossian. What he rehearsed seemed to be a confused legend which the man had learned by heart ; for, when interrupted, he could not proceed without beginning again.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 191

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here in Carrownagh there is a rude stone monument that Irish-speaking peasants call one of the beds of Dermod and Grania. The legend was one of the most widely spread in Ireland. They say Dermod built these shelters for his wife Grania when they were running from the wrath of Finn. Similar stone beds stand at Carrickglass and Castlecarragh. The cavern of Gleniff carries the same name, and that seems to be the only place in County Sligo where the story of the runaway couple is connected to something other than a rude stone monument. Until comparatively recent times these legends were still told by the local shannachien. In 1815 Wakefield met one of these storytellers near Nymphsfield. The man repeated a long history in Irish, which he called the Poems of Oseen, meaning probably the poems of Ossian. What he rehearsed seemed to be a confused legend learned by heart. When interrupted, he could not proceed without beginning again.

45. Fever follows famine in Sligo, 1822

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1822

    A letter from Sligo dated 24 May 1822 reported that fever stalked on the heels of famine, with the type more malignant and longer in duration than in 1817. The sick could not be accommodated.

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    Famine and pestilence may be said to be almost synonymous expressions. Thus we learn that in 1816 and 1817 small-pox made fearful inroads amongst the population, whilst numbers died of a malignant fever ; and on the 24th May 1822, it was stated, in a letter from Sligo, that " fever stalks upon the heels of famine ; we cannot accommodate the sick. The type of the fever is at present more malignant, and its duration longer than in 1817." The malady often ran its

    F

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 32

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is a town that saw fever follow famine. A letter from here, dated the 24th of May 1822, reported that "fever stalks upon the heels of famine" and that the sick could not be accommodated. The fever was more malignant and lasted longer than the one in 1817, which itself had killed great numbers alongside a smallpox outbreak the year before.

46. First Methodist Chapel in Bridge Street, Sligo, 1775

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1775

    The first Methodist Chapel in Sligo was erected in Bridge Street in 1775, a small building with an exceedingly low thatched roof. By this time Sligo had become the head of a Circuit with two ministers.

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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

    As you pass through Sligo, you are in the town where Methodism took firm root. John Wesley first rode here in May 1758, coming from Drumsna through Ballymote, Collooney, and Ballysadare, and found the prospect so encouraging that he arranged regular visits by a minister stationed in Castlebar. By 1760 the congregation had grown enough that a large and commodious apartment was procured for services. In 1775 the first Methodist Chapel was erected in Bridge Street, a small building with an exceedingly low thatched roof, and by then Sligo had become the head of a Circuit with two ministers. Wesley paid his fourteenth and last visit on May 20, 1789, entertained in the barracks by the Quartermaster of the 1st Dragoons. Around that time Gideon Ouseley, called Ireland's most successful evangelist, settled in the town and opened a school in the little chapel, which was largely attended. He and other ministers preached in the open air, especially on market days, addressing the people in their native Irish tongue, and crowds gathered around, listening eagerly and respectfully. In 1797 Ouseley moved on to Ballymote.

47. Foundation of Sligo and Leitrim District Asylum

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1847

    An order in Council on 17 April 1847 constituted Sligo and Leitrim a Lunatic District. The foundation stone for a new asylum near the town of Sligo, designed to hold 250 inmates, was laid on 7 November 1847.

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    After the first passing of the Acts regarding lunacy, most cases of insanity occurring in the counties of Sligo and Leitrim that required special treatment, were sent to Ballinasloe, where there was then a central asylum for the province of Connaught ; in consequence, however, of its over-crowded condition, an order in Council was made, on the 17th April, 1847, constituting the counties of Sligo and Leitrim a " Lunatic District" (within the meaning of the Act), and ordering the erection near the town of Sligo of an asylum to accommodate 250 inmates. On the 7th November, 1847, amidst a large concourse of people, the foundation-stone was laid. A bottle was sealed up containing The Sligo Journal and The Champion newspapers, together with a slip of parchment descriptive of the particulars of the day's ceremony, together with a specimen of each copper and silver coin of the realm. The bottle was then placed in a hollow cut in the stone, which was covered with a zinc plate. The amount of the contract was nearly £30,000, the architect being Mr. William Deane Butler, and the contractor Mr. James Caldwell. In the year 1874, owing to the increase in the number of registered lunatics, the asylum was enlarged by the addition of two wings, at a cost of £14,000, which increased the accommodation from 250 to 470 beds.

    It is alleged that year by year the percentage of insane is on the increase, that the number of those bereft of reason is augmenting with greater rapidity than it ought ; but this may be fairly accounted for by improved registration, as also by a diminished death-rate amongst the insane owing to better treatment ; likewise to the fact that many are now placed in restraint who, in former times, would have been left at large ; the increase of insanity is therefore greater in appearance than in reality.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are near the site of what was once the Sligo and Leitrim District Asylum. Before 1847, people from Sligo and Leitrim requiring special treatment for insanity were sent to Ballinasloe, where a central asylum served the whole province of Connaught. That asylum had grown overcrowded, and on 17 April 1847 an order in Council constituted Sligo and Leitrim a lunatic district and ordered an asylum built near the town of Sligo to hold 250 inmates. The foundation stone was laid on 7 November 1847 before a large crowd. A bottle was sealed containing The Sligo Journal and The Champion newspapers, a slip of parchment describing the day's ceremony, and a specimen of each copper and silver coin of the realm. The bottle was placed in a hollow cut in the stone and covered with a zinc plate. The contract came to nearly £30,000. William Deane Butler was the architect and James Caldwell the contractor. In 1874 the asylum was enlarged with two wings at a cost of £14,000, raising capacity from 250 to 470 beds. The book notes that the apparent rise in insanity year by year may be accounted for by better registration, better treatment lowering the death rate among the insane, and the fact that many were now placed in restraint who once would have been left at large, so the increase was greater in appearance than in reality.

48. Friars and priests split over Sligo election candidates

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1852

    In the Sligo Borough election contests, the friars of Sligo supported and canvassed for Somers while the priests supported Townley. When Townley was unseated for bribery, the friars rejoiced and satirical poems were published mocking the priests' role.

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    In this contest the friars of Sligo were supporters of, and canvassers for, Somers ; whilst the priests were supporters of, and canvassers for, Townley : when therefore the latter was unseated for bribery, great was the rejoicing of the friars, and manypoetic ( ? ) pieces appeared in print. One sung to the air of " The Green Immortal Shamrock " commenced thus : —

    " Through Erin's Isle to sport awhile, As Charles Townley wandered," &c.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 27

    As the companion tells it

    In Sligo, the 1852 borough election split the clergy. The friars supported and canvassed for Somers, while the priests backed Townley. When Townley was unseated for bribery, the friars rejoiced. Satirical poems appeared in print, one sung to the air of "The Green Immortal Shamrock," opening, "Through Erin's Isle to sport awhile, As Charles Townley wandered."

49. Gentleman escapes arrest for debt at Sligo Lent assizes

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1818

    At the Lent assizes of 1818 in Sligo, a well-known spendthrift gentleman was called to be sworn on the grand jury, whereupon a writ of capias was delivered against him for a debt of £266 owed to John Mack. The court ordered his discharge from custody, as his office as juror exempted him from arrest.

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    An amusing escape from arrest for debt is recorded as having occurred at Lent assizes, 1818. A gentleman, a well known spendthrift, being called to the book to be sworn on the grand jury,

    > In 1808 the high sherilf was lined £20, and the sub-sheriffjElO, " for

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 156

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming through Sligo now. Back in 1818, at the Lent assizes here, a well-known spendthrift was called up to be sworn onto the grand jury. Someone handed him a writ for a debt of 266 pounds, but the court ordered his release, because serving as a juror exempted him from arrest.

50. Illicit distillation and revenue conflict in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1700–1831

    From the early 18th century, illicit distillation was practiced in Sligo as a means for tenants to pay rents and support families, leading to ongoing conflict with revenue authorities. Stratagems such as hiding stills in caves or bribing guides were employed to evade seizures.

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    From the earliest times of the eighteenth century illicit distillation seems to have been carried on more or less in Sligo, and the authorities and those engaged in this contraband traffic may be said to have been in continual conflict. The last quarter of the eighteenth century was noted for its hard drinkers. An observant writer asserts, however, that in 1800 excessive diinking in Sligo was on the decline ; but the vice had left its effects in an increase of the number of insane — as returned to the Grand Jury at each assizes. M'Parlan stated that the use of both spirits and beer had diminished greatly — a fact which he attributed to the dearness of food supplies.

    In 1815 the fall in price of provisions of all kinds was sudden and great. It was occasioned by the cessation of the war on the Continent, which had produced a brisk demand for all agricultural produce ; and there had been also a modification of the corn laws.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 166

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo had illicit distillation from the earliest years of the 1700s. The people who practiced it and the revenue authorities were in continual conflict. The last quarter of the 1700s was noted for its hard drinkers. By 1800, excessive drinking in Sligo was on the decline. But the vice had left its mark. The number of insane had increased, as returned to the Grand Jury at each assizes. M'Parlan stated that the use of both spirits and beer had diminished greatly. He attributed this to the dearness of food supplies. In 1815 the fall in price of provisions of all kinds was sudden and great. It was occasioned by the cessation of the war on the Continent, which had produced a brisk demand for all agricultural produce. There had also been a modification of the corn laws.

51. Iron works in County Sligo transferred to Foxford

    Foxford · town · Mayo

    Writing in 1802, M'Parlan recorded that iron works had been carried on by Mr. Rutledge in County Sligo until the neighbouring woods were consumed as fuel. The works were then transferred to Foxford, illustrating the fuel-dependency of early iron manufacturing.

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    Writing in 1802 M'Parlan states that iron works had been carried on by Mr. Eutledge in the County Sligo, until the neighbouring woods were consumed as fuel. The works were then transferred to Foxford.

    The northern mountainous district on the confines of Lough Allen, partly in Leitrim, partly in Eoscommon, and forming the celebrated coal and iron district of Arigna, calls for a short notice, although but a comparatively small portion lies immediately within the confines of the County Sligo. A peculiarity of these coal-seams is, that the beds all lie at a considerable elevation in the mountains where their out-crop may be distinctly traced in various places. The coal — though not equal to Scotch or English — is adapted for culinary or mauufactui'ing purposes ; in 1770 coal from these workings was sold in the southern part of the County Sligo, at 7s. per ton.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    Foxford had iron works come to it, not grow from it. Writing in 1802, M'Parlan recorded that Mr. Rutledge had carried on iron works in County Sligo, until the neighbouring woods were consumed as fuel. The works were then transferred here to Foxford. That is what the record says. Iron needed wood, and when the woods around the Sligo site were gone, the whole operation moved to where fuel still stood. It tells you how early iron manufacturing lived or died by what grew around it. M'Parlan's note is brief, but it captures a pattern. The Arigna district north of Lough Allen, across Leitrim and Roscommon, was the celebrated coal and iron country nearby. Its coal-seams lie high in the mountains, their outcrop visible in places. In 1770, coal from those workings sold in the southern part of County Sligo at 7 shillings per ton.

52. Killeran graveyard at Ballydawley and the Bishop's grave

    Ballydawley · townland · Sligo

    A probable second ecclesiastical establishment was located at Killeran, near Toberdoney, in the townland of Ballydawley. It is now represented only by a diminutive unused graveyard containing one large headstone said to mark the grave of 'the Bishop,' with no trace of lettering remaining.

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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

    Close to Ballydawley, there was probably an ecclesiastical establishment at Killeran, near Toberdoney. Today it is a small, unused graveyard with one large headstone said to mark the grave of "the Bishop." No trace of lettering remains on the stone. A second establishment nearby was the church of the Holy Trinity, founded in 1233 by Clarus M'Moylin O'Moillchoury, Archdeacon of Elphin, for canons of the Order of Prémontré. He made it a cell to the Abbey of Lough Kee, and he died in 1251. The western end of that old church was still standing, evidently part of the vaulted dwelling-place of the monks, with fragments of cut-stone scattered around.

53. Land Commission fair rents near Sligo town

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1884

    The Irish Land Commission began sitting in 1881, and on an estate within about two miles of Sligo town fair rents were fixed at 50 per cent under the valuation, a far steeper reduction than on other estates in the county. The author notes the difficulty of reconciling these decisions with any fixed rule.

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    The Irish Land Commission was appointed in 1881. Its first sitting was held in the autumn of that year, and the first cases heard in the county were upon an estate whereon the fair rent was fixed at a reduction of about 18 per cent, under the old rents, and 6f per cent, under the valuation. In 1884 the Commissioners fixed the rent of another holding on the same estate at about 14 per cent, under the valuation ; but on an estate within some two miles of the town of Sligo fair rents were fixed at 50 per cent, under the valuation. It is not easy to reconcile these decisions with any fixed rule. The Commissioners commenced by comparatively small reductions, which they gradually increased, and the difference was so marked between those given in the first years of the Commission and in 1889 that tenants who got rents fixed in the former period became dissatisfied.

    In 1888 there were 957 "fair rents" fixed in the county, the gross former rent being £12,797 13s. bd., the judicial rent £9337 7s. 9(/., and by the last annual report of the Commission the total number of cases in which judicial rents were fixed by all the methods provided by the Land Law Acts of 1881 and 1887 in the county of Sligo up to the 22nd August, 1889, was 7779, and the percentage in reduction of rents 20'2.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 146

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is the town where the Irish Land Commission's rent decisions caused quite a stir. The Commission began sitting in 1881, and early cases in the county saw only modest reductions, around 18 per cent under old rents on one estate. But in 1884, on an estate within about two miles of this town, fair rents were fixed at 50 per cent under the valuation, a far steeper cut than elsewhere in the county. The author of the History of Sligo notes it was not easy to reconcile these decisions with any fixed rule. The Commissioners had started with comparatively small reductions and gradually increased them. By 1889 the difference was so marked that tenants whose rents were fixed in the earlier years became dissatisfied. Across the county of Sligo, by 22 August 1889, a total of 7779 cases had judicial rents fixed under the Land Law Acts of 1881 and 1887, with an overall reduction of 20.2 per cent.

54. Lord Palmerston's gift of Custom House site to the Crown

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1814

    In 1814, Lord Palmerston presented the site for Sligo's Custom House, bonded warehouses, and timber yard to the Crown. The land extended from Lynn's Dock to Cochrane's Quay along the waterfront, and the Custom House Quay was subsequently leased by the Commissioners of Customs to the Sligo Harbour Commissioners.

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    Sligo- Customs District extends from Kinnesharragh Point, County Sligo, to Gweedore River, County Donegal, and within these limits the Superintendent of Customs is also Ileeeiver of Wreck, Superintendent of Mercantile Marine, Registrar of Shipping and R. N. Reserve. The Custom duties in 1853 were £20,576 ; in 1863, £23,970 ; in 1873, £Ql,rjm ; in 1883, £44,137. The Custom House, bonded warehouses, and timber 3'ard are Government property, the site on which they stand, together with the quay immediately in front of the Custom House, extending from Lynn's Dock to Cochraue's Quay, having

    230 HISTORY OF SLIGO.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 115

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town sits along the waterfront where the Custom House still stands. In 1814, Lord Palmerston gave the Crown the site for the Custom House, bonded warehouses, and timber yard. The land ran from Lynn's Dock to Cochrane's Quay. The quay in front of the Custom House was later leased by the Commissioners of Customs to the Sligo Harbour Commissioners.

55. Mullaghmore harbour a failure for fishery support

    Mullaghmore · town · Sligo

    Mullaghmore ranked next to Raughly in fishing importance, with larger and better-equipped boats. However, the harbour itself was deemed a failure, its only benefit being to keep the local fishery from dying out entirely.

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    There is but little fishing carried on at Eosses Point, as the boatmen are mostly farmers and pilots, who do not fish much unless the herrings or mackerel come close to the shore ; but from Raughly trawling is constantly carried on in Sligo Bay. The opposition which existed for some time against the trawlers has now ceased, and, wonderful to narrate, one of their greatest opponents is now owner of a very successful boat. Eaughly appears to be the best fishing station. In one year were taken 40,000 cod, 20,000 pollock, 2000 soles, 100 turbot, 25,000 mackerel, 20,000 herrings, 40,000 flat-fish, 6000 lobsters, and 2000 crabs. MuUaghmore is next in importance ; and the boats belonging to this harbour are larger and better found than those of Raughly. MuUaghmore harbour, however, is a failure : the only good effected by it has been to prevent the fishery, of which it was the centre, from completely dying out.

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Mullaghmore in Sligo, you are passing a place that ranked second only to Raughly in fishing importance along this coast. The boats belonging to this harbour were larger and better equipped than those of Raughly, which was counted the best fishing station in the bay. In one year at Raughly, the catches ran to 40,000 cod, 20,000 pollock, 2,000 soles, 100 turbot, 25,000 mackerel, and 20,000 herrings. Yet Mullaghmore harbour itself was called a failure. The book puts it plainly: the only good effected by it was to prevent the fishery, of which it was the centre, from completely dying out.

56. O'Beirne's costly failed coal shaft at Jamestown

    Jamestown · townland · Leitrim

    A Mr. O'Beirne of Jamestown spent several thousand pounds sinking a shaft through the base of Yoredale beds into Upper Limestone, on the advice of practical men ignorant of geology. The search for coal was unsuccessful.

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    As a result of geological investigations we need not hope to find coal in Sligo, unless it be in the small area in the Geevagh district, which forms the west extremity of the Roscommon coalfield. "Want of such knowledge has led to some serious mistakes. Nearly fifty years ago a shaft was sunk at Knockvicar, east of Lough Key, through Lower Carboniferous Sandstone, in a fruitless search for coal. A Mr. O'Beirne, of Jamestown, spent several thousand pounds sinking a shaft with a similar result through the base of Yoredale beds into Upper Limestone. He acted on the advice of some " practical men " who were ignorant of the simplest principles of geology. The Carboniferous strata of Sligo are lower in the

    268 HISTORY OF SI,IGO.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 133

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Jamestown, a man named O'Beirne once spent several thousand pounds sinking a shaft in search of coal. He drove it through the base of the Yoredale beds and into the Upper Limestone beneath. He had taken the advice of men he called practical, men who knew nothing of the simplest principles of geology. The search came to nothing. The coal was never there to find. Want of geological knowledge, the record says, has led to serious mistakes like this one.

57. Old lunatic house near Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    Before the present asylum was built, harmless lunatics were kept in a house about two miles from Sligo on the road to Posses Point. The ruins of this house were still visible at the time of writing.

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

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, there's an old connection to how people with mental illness were once housed here. Before the present asylum was built, a few harmless lunatics were kept in a house about 2 miles from Sligo on the road to Posses Point, and the ruins of that house were still visible at the time of writing. Even as late as 1828, the gaol itself was used to confine lunatics. In February 1831 there were 30 held there, 28 the following year, and by March 1849 only 14 remained. The shift toward more moderate restraint eventually led to purchasing further land at a cost of £5500 for a tillage farm, giving inmates employment. That farm supplied the asylum with potatoes, vegetables and milk, and averaged £550 net profit per year, reaching nearly £740 in 1888.

58. Oyster Island channel deepening project

    near Oyster Island · townland · Sligo · 1882–1892

    To finish the deep-water berths at Sligo port, the Harbour Commissioners sought to dredge the channel from Oyster Island to the berths. The goal was to provide sixteen feet of water at the lowest tide to compete with neighboring ports like Derry.

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    age. About ten years ago a considerable loan was obtained from tlie Board of Works for the purpose of constructing deep-water berths, but the sura proved inadequate to finish the work. It is necessary to obtain a further advance to enable the Commissioners not only to dredge to the full extent of the deep-water berth — about 800 feet in length — but to provide sixteen feet of water at the lowest state of the tide, as well as to deepen the channel from Oyster Island to these berths. With this object the Harbour Commissioners have lately been pressing their case upon the notice of the Government to grant a further advance to enable tliem to finish tlie work and place Sligo in fair competition with Derry and other neiglibouring ports.

    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."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 117

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Oyster Island, the Harbour Commissioners wanted to deepen the channel from here to the deep-water berths at Sligo port. About ten years ago, a considerable loan was obtained from the Board of Works for constructing deep-water berths, but the sum proved inadequate to finish the work. The Commissioners needed a further advance to dredge the full extent of the deep-water berth, about 800 feet in length, and to provide sixteen feet of water at the lowest state of the tide, as well as to deepen the channel from Oyster Island to these berths. They pressed their case upon the Government to grant a further advance and place Sligo in fair competition with Derry and other neighbouring ports. If carried out, the improvement would increase revenue to the port and 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 increase imports in a corresponding ratio. Sligo had steadily progressed while other western seaports in Ireland declined, and during the last 25 years the import dues alone increased about 60 per cent. The total revenue from this source in 1864 was £3019, and in 1889 it was £4890. Sligo had never received a free grant of any description from Government for improvement of the port. It was hoped the Royal Commission which visited Sligo a few years ago would have recommended a grant to enable the fisheries to be developed. They reported, however, that the interest of the port might be left in the hands of its energetic inhabitants.

59. Pestiferous atmosphere between Imperial Hotel and Courthouse in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1832

    A visitor to Sligo in late 1832 described a pestiferous and deadly atmosphere while passing from M'Bride's Hotel (later the Imperial Hotel) to the Courthouse, noting a disagreeable odour resembling that of anatomical dissecting rooms.

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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

    As you pass through Sligo, you are moving through a town that in 1832 still carried the marks of a recent pestilence. A visitor who came that year, when the worst had passed, wrote that the very air here felt pestiferous and deadly. Walking from M'Bride's Hotel, later the Imperial Hotel, to the Courthouse, he noticed a singularly disagreeable odour, like what might be found in a dirty anatomical dissecting room. It was no fancy, he said, for whenever he reached that locality he became peculiarly sensible of it. The streets were beginning to recover, and business had partly resumed, but so many people had been taken who once led every movement in the town. Very many corpses had been buried in the Abbey-grounds, where there was scarcely clay enough to cover the coffins.

60. Plague imported by ship into Ballyshannon, 1478

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1478

    In 1478 a great plague was imported by a ship which entered the port of Ballyshannon. This is an early recorded instance of disease being brought into Ireland by maritime trade.

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

    64 HISTORY OF SLIGO.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon in Donegal, you are in a port town with a grim place in Ireland's medical history. In 1478, a great plague was imported by a ship which entered the port here. The Irish annals record it plainly, and it stands out because the source names the ship as the means of arrival. Most outbreaks in the annals are described only as visitations that swept a district or a season, but this one is traced to a single vessel sailing into Ballyshannon. It is an early recorded instance of disease reaching Ireland through maritime trade. The same annals list ever-recurring scourges across the region and beyond, years of pestilence and famine running back through the 1400s and 1300s, but the entry for 1478 is distinctive in naming the port and the ship together.