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

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Large Steamers Discharging at Rosses Point

   Rosses Point · town · Sligo · 1890

   Large steamers of over 3000 tons were observed discharging their cargoes at Rosses Point, situated five miles from Sligo town. This reflected the steady progression of maritime trade and the direct importation of maize during the late 19th century.

   Read the passage

   It was gradually perceived that larger vessels could be worked more economically than small ones, but required more water to float them, and this brought about the formation of the new channel or cut from Bath Lodge to the Ballast Quay, by means of which vessels of a larger tonnage were enabled to reach the Quay. During the past twenty years, large steamers of steadily-increasing dimensions have replaced the sailing vessels of former days, and this remark applies more particularly to the grain trade between Sligo and foreign parts. The importation of maize, whicli is the largest item — 43,000 tons having been imported direct during the year 1890 — is almost entirely effected by large steamers, whilst twenty years ago the bulk of the trade was carried on by sailing-vessels of about 800 tons. Now, it is not uncommon to see steamers of upwards of 3000 tons discharging at Rosses Point. At present, the only trade in which large sailing-vessels are engaged is in the importation of flour from California and Oregon, where it is not possible to employ steamers to advantage.

   It is clear that Sligo is at considerable disadvantage by her merchants having to discharge their larger cargoes five miles from the town, incurring thereby a heavy loss in exj)enses of lighter-

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 116

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up near Rosses Point, a coastal spot in County Sligo. In 1890, this was where the big ships came, large steamers of over 3000 tons discharging their cargoes at the Point, five miles from Sligo town itself. The grain trade had shifted from sailing vessels of about 800 tons to these steadily larger steamers over the preceding twenty years, and 43,000 tons of maize were imported direct in that single year. Sligo's merchants were at a considerable disadvantage, having to unload their larger cargoes here, five miles from the town, and incurring heavy lighterage expenses as a result.

2. Old Fever Hospital on green headland west of Victoria approach

   Sligo · town · Sligo

   In the last century the Fever Hospital stood in a completely isolated position on the green headland westward of the present Victoria approach to Sligo town. It remained there for a lengthened period until a new edifice replaced it.

   Read the passage

   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

   Coming through Sligo, you pass near the old Fever Hospital, which once stood in complete isolation on the green headland west of what is now Victoria approach. It stayed there for a long time until a new building replaced it. That new hospital bore an inscription over the door: "Erected at the joint expense of the County and Edward Synge Cooper, Esq., M.P., 1822." On 29 May 1822 it was announced the new hospital had been occupied, with 38 patients, and fever cases were increasing daily because of the distress of the poor. Ten years later, just before the cholera outbreak, the hospital was almost empty. Over time it fell into dilapidation, with doors and window sashes needing repair and accommodation deemed totally inadequate. This was said to have come about because magistrates living in distant parts of the county repeatedly opposed funding for the institution, believing a central hospital was unnecessary. The oldest records vanished, so a full list of physicians cannot be found, but the medical men in charge since 1822 were Drs. Irwin, Coyne, Knott, Homan, Lynn, and Murray.

3. Pavement repairs and householders' duty, Sligo 1769

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1769

   In 1769 the sum of £77 was laid out in repairing and making good the pavement in the streets of Sligo, and it was ordered that all householders should at their own expense keep in repair the pavement in front of their residences to the centre of the street.

   Read the passage

   In 1769 the sum of £77 was laid out in repaii-iug and making good the pavement in the streets, and it was ordered that from that date all householders should at their own expense keep in repair the pavement in front of their residences to the centre of the street.

   From about the year 1770 the vestry of St. Jolm's had charge of the streets, as also the roads in the union, and in each parish " overseers " of the roads were regularly appointed. In 1775 it is recited that "pursuant to an Act made, 5 Greo. III. c. 14, sec. 35, empowering vestries to repair the streets of corporate towns by assessments, it is ordered by this vestry that the sum of seventy pounds sterling be applotted and levied off the inhabitants of the town of Sligo, to be applied towards paving and gravelling," &c. It appears that in 1780 the townspeople considered themselves over-rated, as the vestry ordered that, for the future, the borough should pay in the proportion of but one-ninth of the union. From this date the paving and flagging of the streets seem to have been regularly repaired. After the Town and Harbour Commissioners assumed charge, matters do not appear to have been as well managed by them as by the vestry, for the Lo)i(/oii(/crri/ Sciiftjicl of November, 1836, states that a tourist who visited Sligo thought " that the bogs had been literally carried off the mountains into the streets, and had

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 103

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, you are on streets that have been repaired and disputed for over 250 years. In 1769 the sum of 77 pounds was laid out to repair and make good the pavement, and every householder was ordered to maintain at their own expense the pavement in front of their residence right out to the centre of the street. From about 1770 the vestry of St. John's took charge of the streets and the roads in the union, appointing overseers in each parish. In 1775, under an Act of George III empowering vestries to repair streets of corporate towns by assessments, 70 pounds was levied off the inhabitants for paving and gravelling. By 1780 the townspeople thought themselves over-rated, and the borough's share was reduced to one-ninth of the union. After the Town and Harbour Commissioners took over, management seems to have slipped. The Londonerry Sentinel of November 1836 reported a tourist's view that the bogs had been literally carried off the mountains into the streets.

4. Protestants hide in caves, mountains and boats to escape rebels

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1798

   Some Protestants on the coast put out to sea in boats to avoid rebel excesses, others fled to the mountains and hid in caves, whilst others lay concealed in the cornfields.

   Read the passage

   Some Protestants on the coast put out to sea in boats in order to avoid the excesses of the rebels; some fled to the mountains and hid in caves, whilst others lay in the cornfields and were

   ^ The strange career of Henry Crofton, an ancestor of the Sligo family of that name, may be of interest : " Henry Crofton was attainted by William III,, and fled to Spain, where he joined some order of the Roman Catholic Church. His attainder being subsequently reversed, he returned to Ireland, professed to be a Protestant, so very decided a Protestant indeed that he wrote a controversial book styled the ' Key to Popery,' Becoming dissatisfied, however, he returned to Spain, and to his former creed, but again relapsed, and finally in Spain was burned as a heretic.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 12

   As the companion tells it

   Through Sligo, in 1798, Protestants on the coast put out to sea in boats to avoid rebel excesses. Others fled to the mountains and hid in caves, while some lay concealed in the cornfields. The records here also carry the story of Henry Crofton, of the Sligo family of that name. He was attainted by William III and fled to Spain, where he joined an order of the Roman Catholic Church. His attainder was later reversed, and he returned to Ireland professing to be a Protestant, so decided that he wrote a controversial book called 'Key to Popery.' He then returned to Spain and to his former creed, but relapsed, and was finally burned as a heretic in Spain.

5. Roadside inn sign at Ballinafad

   Ballinafad · townland · Sligo · 1700–1800

   A roadside inn in the village of Ballinafad, at the foot of the Curlew Mountains, displayed a rhyming sign-board inviting travellers to stop for a drink before climbing the hill. It illustrates the character of old roadside hospitality on the mountain route.

   Read the passage

   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

6. Scenic description of Glencar Lake and valley

   Glencar · electoral division · Sligo

   Glencar Lake, situated between Sligo and Leitrim, is surrounded by steep mountains including Benbulbin and the Castlegal range. The valley is described as a cheerful, joyous glen, well cultivated and thickly studded with cottages.

   Read the passage

   Glencar Lake, situated between the counties of Sligo and Leitrim, is surrounded by mountains. The lake, nearly two miles in length, fills the lower part of the valley, and adds considerably to its attractions ; but even if there were no lake it could still lay claim to almost peerless beauty. The mountains rise up on each side so steeply, that they seem, except in a few places, altogether inaccessible. To the north lies the Beubulben, and to the south the Castlegal range, with its gray limestone cliffs resembling ancient weather-beaten fortifications and its slopes in part clotlied with plantations of fir.

   The waterfalls at Glencar are objects of interest, especially the one known as Sruth-an-ail-an-ard (the stream against the height), or the " Waterflight," so called from its being sometimes blown upwards. Tliis is seen to most advantage after heavy rain with a stiff breeze from the south, the wind getting underneath at the point where the water falls over the edge of the cliff, so as to form a column leaning more or less back towards the hills, or breaking into spray over the grass above. With less wind, a smaller stream looks like ascending smoke.'

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 137

7. Sligo butter market weighmaster appointed, 1787

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1787

   In September 1787 James Soden was appointed public weighmaster of butter and all other commodities sold in the Sligo Corporation. The office later expanded to include inspection of the town, port, and markets.

   Read the passage

   The first mention made of the butter-market occurs in the books of the Corporation on the 29th September, 1787, when James Soden was appointed " public weighraaster of butter, and all other commodities exposed for sale in the Corporation."

   The weighmaster had permission to appoint a deputy. In 1812 the Irish Butter Act vested in the Corporation the patronage of the appointment to the joint offices of " weiglimaster" and " taster of butter." Just prior to the remodelling of the Corporation, in 1842, that body appointed the Hight Hon. John Wynne to the office, which was then of considerable emolument, as it included the office of public weighmaster, inspector of the town, port, and markets of Sligo, also the weighing of grain, and all other commodities. Mr. Wynne held the office until his death.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 119

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town whose butter market goes back to September 1787, when the Corporation appointed James Soden as public weighmaster of butter and all other commodities exposed for sale. The weighmaster could appoint a deputy. In 1812 the Irish Butter Act gave the Corporation the patronage of the joint offices of weighmaster and taster of butter. Just before the Corporation was remodelled in 1842, they appointed the Right Hon. John Wynne to the office, by then of considerable emolument, as it included public weighmaster, inspector of the town, port, and markets of Sligo, and the weighing of grain and all other commodities. Wynne held the office until his death.

8. Sligo Model School completed, 1862

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1862–1888

   A Model School in Sligo, petitioned for by the Town Council, was completed in 1862 at a cost of about £7000. The Italian-style building of limestone with Mountcharles sandstone dressings had 296 boys on the roll by the end of 1888.

   Read the passage

   Several applications had been from time to time made for the establishment of a " Model School " in Sligo. The Town Council petitioned the Commissioners of National Education on the subject, and finally their request was granted. The building, which consists of a central block and two wings, was not completed until 1862. It is of Italian character ; the windows are circular-headed, and deeply recessed, with moulded jambs. The mason work is of limestone, and the dressings are of Mount-Charles sandstone. The edifice cost about £7000. At the close of the year 1888 the number of boys on the roll of the school was 163 Church of Ireland, 34 Presbyterians, 83 of other denominations, and 16 Roman Catholics, forming a total of 296. The average daily attendance was 158.

   The National School system has, to a great extent, spread education of a primary description amongst the lower classes.

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 211

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Sligo, the town's Model School stands as a landmark from the 1860s. The Town Council petitioned the Commissioners of National Education for it, and the building was completed in 1862 at a cost of about £7,000. It's an Italian-style structure of limestone with Mountcharles sandstone dressings, a central block with two wings and circular-headed windows. By the close of 1888, 296 boys were on the roll: 163 Church of Ireland, 34 Presbyterians, 83 of other denominations, and 16 Roman Catholics. The average daily attendance was 158.

9. St. John's Union vestry administered Sligo streets and lighting, c.1766-1800

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1766–1800

   From approximately 1766 to 1800, the vestry of St. John's Union levied rates, licensed beggars, appointed watchmen, undertook street lighting, and levied money for payment of the Militia in Sligo. The duties of the Provost and free Burgesses were principally the election of two members of Parliament for the Borough.

   Read the passage

   For all practical purposes the two grants of James I. remained in force, and were the Charters of the Corporation. By an Act passed in the reign of George II. (3 Gr. II. c. 21) the Corporation became conservators of the port, and maintained a Ballast Office for improving it ; but the Act of 5 George III. c. 14, s. 35 empowered vestries to repair the streets of corporate towns, and undertake flagging, paving, &c. Subsequently in Sligo the vestry — namely that of St. John's Union — levied the rates, licensed beggars, appointed watchmen, undertook the lighting (or not lighting, as was sometimes the case) of the streets, levied money for payment of the Militia, and in point of fact, from circa 17G6 up to 1800, tlie duties of the Provost and free Burgesses of the town appear —as a perusal of their minutes demonstrates — to have been principally the election of two members of Parliament for the Borougli.

   The statute of 40 George III. c. 99 (1800) is the first local Act, and it vested the powers conferred in the following commissioners : —

   Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 47

   As the companion tells it

   As you travel through Sligo, you're passing through a town once governed by the vestry of St. John's Union. Between 1766 and 1800, that vestry levied rates, licensed beggars, appointed watchmen, and undertook the lighting of the streets, though as the record notes, sometimes they chose not lighting. They also levied money for payment of the Militia. The principal duty of the Provost and free Burgesses during those years was the election of two members of Parliament for the Borough.

10. St. Laurence's Industrial School, Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1871–1888

    An Industrial School was opened in 1871 under the Sisters of Mercy in Sligo. When the Cathedral was completed, the old parish church and grounds were handed over to the orphans; in 1888 the school had 152 inmates.

    Read the passage

    When their new Convent was completed the sisters opened public schools on September 24th, 1849, and from that date the several works undertaken began to develop gradually. One wing of the new building was devoted to a Training School for teachers, an orphanage, and a class in training for domestic service. In 1871 an Industrial School was opened, and the Cathedral being then completed, the old parish church and grounds were handed over to be appropriated to the orphans. St. Laurence's Industrial School, under the Act (31 Vict. c. 25), had, in 1888, 152 inmates; the total cost of maintenance and management was £2439 8s. 7d., together with £285 15s. 2d. for rent and interest. The actual industrial profit was £367 14s. \d., the net cost per head being £15 10s. 2d. In 1876 a handsome chapel was added to the west end of the Convent building. In 1880 the Sisters removed the extern schools to more spacious premises on the opposite side of the road. In the same year they built a bakery for the purpose of training their intern pupils and servants to that useful branch of domestic economy. A sewing school for extern girls was also set on foot. They are here taught various kinds of plain and fancy needlework, &c. In 1884 a large new public laundry was built on the Convent premises. In 1888 the accommodation being found insufficient, large new schools were erected. In 1890 the charge of the Albert-road Male Inf ant- School was handed over to the Sisters. The " Kindergarten System " has been adopted of late in the Infant-Schools, and is found attractive to the little children. Over 800 pupils now attend the extern schools, and 200 interns of all classes are under the constant care of the Sisters.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 65

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the Sisters of Mercy opened an Industrial School here in 1871. When the Cathedral was completed, the old parish church and its grounds were handed over to the orphans. A handsome chapel was added to the convent building in 1876, and by 1888 the school had 152 inmates.

11. Unlit coast from Sligo to Eagle Island, 1876

    Easky · town · Sligo · 1876

    In 1876 the Grand Jury represented to the Government that the coast for many miles west from Sligo to Eagle Island in Erris was totally unlit, and many casualties had occurred. Kinnasharragh, a low dangerous shoal near Easky, was suggested as a suitable site for lighting this part of the coast.

    Read the passage

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

    A glance at the chart of the Harbour of Sligo shows that, in geological, or perhaps even in later times, there had been an island, or group of islands, between Aughris Head and Paughly.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 110

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Easky, you're near a stretch of coast that in 1876 was completely dark for many miles west, all the way from Sligo to Eagle Island in Erris. The Grand Jury told the Government that many casualties had occurred because the coast was totally unlit, but nothing came of it. Kinnasharragh, a low dangerous shoal near here, was put forward as a suitable place to put a light, but the suggestion came to nothing.

12. John Walsh purchases Bianconi's Sligo-area lines, 1867

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1867

    In March 1867 Mr. John Walsh of Sligo purchased from Bianconi the Sligo and Enniskillen, Sligo and Ballyshannon, Sligo and Westport, and several other coach lines, taking over the regional vehicular network. Some branches were considerably extended shortly after the change in ownership.

    Read the passage

    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

    p

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 105

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are on the ground where a regional coach network once ran. In 1832 Bianconi began running a car from Longford to Sligo, linking with the canal boat. By 1849 he owned all the vehicular traffic into the town, and in 1852 he put cars on the Strabane, Enniskillen, and Westport lines. In March 1867 a local man, John Walsh of Sligo, bought from Bianconi the Sligo and Enniskillen, the Sligo and Ballyshannon, the Sligo and Westport, and the Ballina lines, along with branches to several small towns.

13. Lake encamps at Ballintogher before French surrender

    Ballintogher · town · Sligo · 1798

    On the night of 7 September 1798, General Lake encamped at Ballintogher, situated between Dromahair and Collooney. The following day the surrender of the French at Ballinamuck ended the actual warfare of the 1798 campaign in the west.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 11

14. Wesleyan Methodist chapel opened in Ballymote, 1829

    Ballymote · town · Sligo · 1829

    A Wesleyan Methodist chapel was opened in Ballymote in 1829 on a plot of ground given free of charge by Lord Kirkwall. This marked the establishment of Methodist worship in the town.

    Read the passage

    In 1829 a Wesleyan Methodist chapel was opened in Ballymote, the plot of ground being given free of charge by Lord Kirkwall. The Methodist chapel in Collooney was built and opened for service in 1861. It stands upon a small plot that formerly belonged to the Crown, but being sold by public auction was purchased by the Methodist body.

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 72

15. Yeomanry occupy Ballina on march to recapture Killala

    Ballina · townland · Mayo · 1798

    On the morning of 23 September 1798, Ballina was occupied by Captain O'Hara's, Captain Wynne's, and Captain Crofton's yeomanry corps as part of General Trench's force, which then assisted in the recapture of Killala.

    Read the passage

    The next morning', i.e. the 2'3rd September, Balllna was occupied by Captain O'Hara's, Captain Wynne's, and Captain Crofton's corps of yeomanry, which formed portion of the force under command of Major General Trench ; these, together with the two Tireragh corps, assisted in the recapture of Killala. Towards the close of the year (October 27) four French frigates and a man-of-war made their appearance off the Sligo Coast. This news was brouglit in by the Fox cutter, which escaped under a heavy fire distinctly heard in the streets of Sligo, and the excitement " put a stop to all trade for this market day. Colonel Gough, commanding the garrison, ordered the troops to be in readiness to march at a moment's notice." These vessels were probably connected with the abortive descent of Napper Tandy on the Rosses in Donegal.

    The following were the committee of Sligo magistrates appointed by Government to inquire into losses sustained owing to the excesses of the insurgents, and to decide on the claims of each applicant : — Arthur Irwin, W. Harloe Phibbs, E,ev. Messrs. Duke, Cullen, and West.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 13

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, on the morning of 23 September 1798, Ballina was occupied by three corps of yeomanry under Captain O'Hara, Captain Wynne, and Captain Crofton. They formed part of the force under Major General Trench, and together with two Tireragh corps, they assisted in the recapture of Killala.

16. Methodist chapel built in Collooney on former Crown land, 1861

    Collooney · townland · Sligo · 1861

    The Methodist chapel in Collooney was built and opened for service in 1861. It stood on a small plot formerly belonging to the Crown, which had been sold by public auction and purchased by the Methodist body.

    Read the passage

    In 1829 a Wesleyan Methodist chapel was opened in Ballymote, the plot of ground being given free of charge by Lord Kirkwall. The Methodist chapel in Collooney was built and opened for service in 1861. It stands upon a small plot that formerly belonged to the Crown, but being sold by public auction was purchased by the Methodist body.

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 72

17. 1662 survey: Town Hall site was Castle-quarter and New Fort

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1662

    A survey of Sligo taken in 1662 describes the site on which the Town Hall now stands as 'The Castle-quarter, now the New Fort beginning at the bridge, south side,' indicating a former castle and fortification occupied the location.

    Read the passage

    In the survey of the town taken in the year 1662, the site on which the Town Hall now stands is described as "The Castlequarter, now the New Fort beginning at the bridge, south side

    \To face page 152.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 73

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the Town Hall marks a site with older roots. A 1662 survey of the town calls it 'The Castle-quarter, now the New Fort beginning at the bridge, south side.' So a castle and then a fort once stood here, before the hall we see today.

18. 1822 Sligo election petition against Earl of Kingston

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1822

    The Earl of Kingston, elder brother of the Hon. Henry King, took a very active part in the 1822 Sligo county election. A petition was presented to the House of Commons by a Sligo elector complaining of a breach of privilege and praying for an inquiry; a separate bribery petition was also presented but not proceeded with.

    Read the passage

    In consequence of the Earl of Kingston, elder brother of the Hon. Henry King, having taken a very active part in this election of 1822, a petition was presented to the House of Commons by an elector of Sligo, complaining of a breach of privilege, and praying for an inquiiy ; a petition alleging bribery was also presented, but was not proceeded with.

    The following epigram on the statement " that the honesty and sense of the County of Sligo " was represented by its members, was composed and circulated in 1829, before the election of the following year : —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Sligo town, this was the setting for a contested county election in 1822. The Earl of Kingston, elder brother of the Hon. Henry King, took a very active part in it. A Sligo elector then petitioned the House of Commons, complaining of a breach of privilege and praying for an inquiry. A separate petition alleging bribery was also presented, but was not proceeded with. In 1829, an epigram was composed and circulated questioning the statement that "the honesty and sense of the County of Sligo" was represented by its members, ahead of the following year's election.

19. 1869 Borough Improvement Bill removes Corporation control of Sligo Port

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1842–1869

    The Borough Improvement Bill of 1869 ended the Sligo Corporation's control over the Port and limited the jurisdiction of the Harbour Commissioners. This reversed the 1842 Municipal Act arrangement which had given Corporation members ex officio seats alongside the Town and Harbour Commissioners, raising total membership to forty-eight.

    Read the passage

    In 1869, b}^ the passing of the " Borough Improvement Bill," the Corporation ceased to have any control over the Port, and the jurisdiction of the Commissioners became limited

    ' Gabbard is a barge ; another curious designation is also to be found in some documents, i. e. a pickard, or small ship.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 115

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this is a town where the Corporation once ran the port. That lasted from the 1842 Municipal Act until 1869, when the Borough Improvement Bill ended Corporation control of the port and limited the Harbour Commissioners' jurisdiction.

20. Agricultural and Commercial Bank branch in Sligo, 1832–1840

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1832–1840

    The Agricultural and Commercial Bank opened a branch in Sligo about 1832. In November 1836 a determined run was made on it; the branch closed, re-opened in January 1837, and finally ceased business on 19th June 1840.

    Read the passage

    The Agricultural and Commercial Bank opened a branch in the town about the year 1832. In November, 1836, there was a determined run made on it ; tlie branch closed a few days after, was re-opened in January, 1837, and on 19th June, 1840, it finally ceased to transact business.

    The National Bank also opened a branch in Sligo. In November, 1840, there was a run on it which was defeated, but shortly afterwards the branch was withdrawn.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 89

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo had its share of banking trouble in these years. The Agricultural and Commercial Bank opened a branch here around 1832. In November 1836 a determined run was made on it. The branch closed a few days later, reopened in January 1837, and on 19 June 1840 it finally ceased to transact business. The National Bank also opened a branch in Sligo, and in November 1840 there was a run on it too. That run was defeated, but shortly afterwards the branch was withdrawn.

21. Agricultural revolution in Corran barony

    Corran · barony · Sligo · 1776

    By 1776, a revolution in agriculture had taken place, turning what had been continuous sheep-walks into fields of barley and oats. Tillage had invaded and spread over the grass lands of the barony.

    Read the passage

    In 1776 the flocks of sheep in the county were few in number, a revolution in agriculture having taken place ; the baronies of Corran and Tireragh, which had been, continuous sheepwalks a quarter of a century previously, were then yellow with fields of waving barley and oats ; for tillage had invaded and spread over the grass lands. Sheep were, however, kept in smaller numbers, and were principally of the native Irish kind, except a few flocks which belonged to some of the gentry, who had taken great pains to improve the breed.

    Swine were at all times kept, and had increased annually in number ; in 1777 the farmers commenced the export of saltpork, hams, and bacon. The hogs of Irish breed — very tall, long, and narrow-loined — were kept sometimes to the age of two years, being fed and fattened on potatoes.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 143

22. Agricultural revolution in Tireragh barony

    Tireragh · barony · Sligo · 1776

    By 1776, a revolution in agriculture had taken place, turning what had been continuous sheep-walks into fields of barley and oats. Tillage had invaded and spread over the grass lands of the barony.

    Read the passage

    In 1776 the flocks of sheep in the county were few in number, a revolution in agriculture having taken place ; the baronies of Corran and Tireragh, which had been, continuous sheepwalks a quarter of a century previously, were then yellow with fields of waving barley and oats ; for tillage had invaded and spread over the grass lands. Sheep were, however, kept in smaller numbers, and were principally of the native Irish kind, except a few flocks which belonged to some of the gentry, who had taken great pains to improve the breed.

    Swine were at all times kept, and had increased annually in number ; in 1777 the farmers commenced the export of saltpork, hams, and bacon. The hogs of Irish breed — very tall, long, and narrow-loined — were kept sometimes to the age of two years, being fed and fattened on potatoes.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 143

23. Bank of Ireland building on Stephen Street, Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    The newly-erected Bank of Ireland and agent's residence stand on the site of old premises in Stephen Street, Sligo. The classical building features Ionic columns of polished Aberdeen granite and limestone ashlar from Ballysadare, designed by architects Millar & Symes.

    Read the passage

    The newly-erected Bank and agent's residence stand on the site of the old premises in Stephen-street. The building is classic in design, having Ionic columns and pilasters of polished Aberdeen granite for the two porches, supporting Mount-Charles sandstone frieze, cornice, and balustrade. The dressing to all the upper floor windows, also tlie moulded quoins, and cantaliver eave-course for roof, are of chiselled sandstone, the moulding being of a bold, decided character. The regular face (ashlar work) is of chiselled limestone from Ballysadare. Little or no carving has been introduced except for caps to columns and pilasters.

    The agent has a commodious residence, quite separate from the banking department. Messrs. Millar & Symes (Architects to the Bank of Ireland) were the designers of the building.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 90

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo on Stephen Street, the Bank of Ireland building stands on the site of old premises. It's a classical design by Millar and Symes, the Bank of Ireland's architects, with Ionic columns and pilasters of polished Aberdeen granite on the two porches. The stonework tells its own story: limestone ashlar from Ballysadare, sandstone from Mount Charles for the frieze and cornice, bold moulded quoins and a cantilevered eave course. Little carving was introduced beyond the column caps. The bank agent has a commodious residence there too, kept quite separate from the banking department.

24. Bellarush bridge near Lough Arrow — among oldest in County Sligo

    Bellarush · townland · Sligo

    Bellarush bridge, near the north end of Lough Arrow, is one of the oldest standing bridges in County Sligo, its narrow arches and masonry style suggesting great age though no building date is known.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 100

25. Bianconi becomes sole proprietor of Sligo vehicular traffic, 1849

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1849

    In 1849 Bianconi purchased the interests of all other proprietors and became the sole possessor of vehicular traffic to Sligo, consolidating his dominance over the region's road transport.

    Read the passage

    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

    p

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 105

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are on roads once dominated by Bianconi. He started running a car from Longford to Sligo in 1832, connecting with the canal boat. Then in 1849 he bought out every other proprietor and became sole possessor of all vehicular traffic to the town. By 1852 he had cars running from Sligo to Strabane, Enniskillen and Westport, with branch-cars to smaller towns across the north and west. In March 1867, John Walsh of Sligo purchased the Sligo and Enniskillen, Sligo and Ballyshannon, Sligo and Westport, and Ballina lines from him.

26. Bianconi expands car network from Sligo, 1852

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1852

    In 1852 Bianconi placed cars on the Strabane, Enniskillen, and Westport lines from Sligo, with branch-cars to several small towns in the north and west, greatly expanding the regional transport network centred on Sligo.

    Read the passage

    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

    p

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 105

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo was the hub of Bianconi's car network. By 1849 he had bought out the other proprietors and become sole possessor of vehicular traffic to the town. He started in 1832, running a car from Longford to Sligo in connection 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 John Walsh of Sligo bought routes from him, including "The Sligo and Enniskillen," "The Sligo and Ballyshannon," and "The Sligo and Westport."

27. Carbery Cavalry entertained at Hazelwood

    Hazelwood · street · Galway · 1797

    On 18th July 1797, the Carbery Cavalry yeomanry troop was entertained at an elegant dinner at Hazelwood by their commanding officer, Captain Owen Wynne. The event was reported in the Sligo Journal as an example of the expense entailed in commanding a yeomanry corps.

    Read the passage

    1 The command of a corps of yeomanry appears to have entailed some considerable expense, if the following extract from llie Sligo Journal be an example of the usual custom of the day: "On Tuesday last (18th July, 1797), the troop of Carber)' Cavalry were most elegantly entertained at dinner by their esteemed commander at Hazelwood."

    14 HISTORY OF SLIGO.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 6

28. Church of Holy Cross (Friary Church), High Street, Sligo

    High Street · street · Sligo · 1846–1859

    The present Church of Holy Cross, commonly known as the Friary Church, stands in High Street and was erected around 1846 to the design of Sir John Benson. It was consecrated on the Feast of the Epiphany 1848, with the belfry completed in 1859. Its tower, nave and chancel are described in detail.

    Read the passage

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

    \To face page 130.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 63

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on this street is the Church of Holy Cross, commonly known as the Friary Church, erected about 1846 from the design of Sir John Benson. It was consecrated on the Feast of the Epiphany in 1848, though the belfry was not finished until 1859. The building stands so hemmed in by neighbouring shops and houses that no good view can be had of its proportions. It consists of a tower, porch, nave, and chancel. The tower is a handsome limestone structure with two buttresses on each face at the angles. The east doorway in the tower has a low ope with slender shafts in recesses in the jambs, surmounted by elaborately cut mouldings in the pointed circle. The nave's two-light windows are lancet-headed. The east window in the chancel is a five-light window with elaborate tracery in the head and fine stained glass. The roof nearly resembles in some of its features that of Westminster Hall, with a large main arch, smaller arches, principal rafters, hammer-beams, curved sheets, and wall-pieces.

29. Collooney becomes premier cattle fair after railway link

    Collooney · townland · Sligo · 1882–1892

    The Sligo, Leitrim, and Northern Counties Railway furnished a link between Sligo and the North of Ireland, giving great impetus to the cattle trade. Collooney became the best fair within a considerable radius.

    Read the passage

    The Sligo, Leitrim, and Northern Counties Railway, which had been working for some time as far as Collooney, was opened into Sligo in 1882. It has running powers over the Midland Great Western line from Carricknagat Junction into the town. About nine miles of this railway from the above junction to Balliutogher lie within the county. It furnishes a link between Sligo and the North of Ireland, aud has given a great impetus to the cattle trade, Collooney being now the best fair within a considerable radius. The traffic on this line is slowly improving. In 1888 it carried 124,628 passengers, and 33,769 tons of general merchandize and minerals, the total receipts being £14,941, the working expenses £13,634.

    The traffic carried by railway consists principally of imported goods sent inwards ; the outward trade being comparatively small, barely one-ninth of the whole. The latter consists

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 107

30. Congregational church in Stephen Street, Sligo, opened 1851

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1850–1851

    A handsome church, schools, and manse were erected in Stephen Street, Sligo, at a cost of £3000, largely collected in England. The foundation stone was laid on 3 April 1850 and the church opened for worship on 15 August 1851.

    Read the passage

    Dr. Urwiek remained in Sligo till the year 1827, when he received " a call " to the Congregational Church in York-street, Dublin, where he passed the remainder of his active ministerial life. For about six months after Dr. Urwick's departure, the Rev. S. Biuks, of Bristol, carried on the ministration, and his successor seems to have been a Mr. Carlile. In 1831, the Rev. E. H. Nolan was appointed minister, and in 1885 was succeeded by the Rev. Noble Shepperd. It was during the ministration of the latter that the present handsome church, schools, and manse were erected in Stephen-street at a cost of £3000, the money having been collected principally in England. The ceremony of laying the foundation stone took place on the 3rd April, 1850, and the church was opened for divine worship on 15th August of the following year.

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 71

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, there's a Congregational church in Stephen Street that tells a story of famine and renewal. The foundation stone was laid on 3 April 1850, and the church opened for worship on 15 August 1851. It was built during the ministry of the Reverend Noble Shepperd, along with schools and a manse, at a cost of 3000 pounds, most of it collected in England. Before 1846, Shepperd had started a school here that during the famine became a ragged school, where children were supplied with food. When the distress passed, it went back to its original purpose and later closed when the Model School was established. Shepperd served until his death in August 1875.

31. Dead Man's Point at Rosses Point named for plague victim

    Rosses Point · town · Sligo · 1800–1810

    At the extremity of Rosses Point a headland called Dead Man's Point takes its name from a foreign seaman who died of the plague at the commencement of the century. The name preserves this grim episode in the locality's maritime history.

    Read the passage

    In former times there was a quay projecting from the Oyster Island (so marked in the Survey of 1809-1818) ; later on, posts along the shore were substituted, to which any vessel remaining over a tide was required to moor. These posts have now given place to mooring chains, to which vessels of over 3000 tons can make fast ; for the reach between Oyster Island and Eosses Point — nearly a mile long, and about 300 yards broad — affords anchorage in about twenty feet of water : the tide, however, is strong, and the holding ground not good, so that the present mooring chains are not only necessary, but form an excellent and thoroughly safe anchorage for the largest vessels. At the extremity of Rosses Point there is a headland styled " Dead Man's Point," so called, it is alleged, from a foreign seaman who, at the commencement of the century, died of the plague

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 112

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Rosses Point in Sligo, you are near a headland called Dead Man's Point. The name comes from a foreign seaman who died of the plague at the commencement of the century. The reach between Oyster Island and Rosses Point gives anchorage in about twenty feet of water, though the tide is strong and the holding ground not good. In former times a quay projected from Oyster Island, and later posts along the shore were substituted, to which any vessel remaining over a tide was required to moor. Those posts have since given way to mooring chains, to which vessels of over 3000 tons can make fast.

32. Decline of flax cultivation in County Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1790–1889

    At the close of the eighteenth century at least 3,000 acres in County Sligo were under flax, giving employment to hecklers and scutchers. By 1809 only 684 acres remained, and the 1883–1889 average was just twenty-four acres.

    Read the passage

    scutched flax, or forty stones to the acre ; although, as a general rule, only sown in small patches, still, in the aggregate, tlie area was extensive, and thus employment was given to a class of workers who heckled the flax after it had heen scutched in the mill. At the close of the last century at least 3000 acres in the county were under flax. In the year 1809 there were but 684 acres, whilst the average of the six years, from 1883 to 1889, was only twenty-four.

    What would be thought in the present day of a field of weeds being sold ? yet in 1776 the price per acre was £6 6s., the ashes being used in boiling the yarn.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 145

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the county around this town once had at least 3,000 acres under flax at the close of the 1700s. The flax was scutched in mills and then heckled by hand, giving work to a class of labourers. By 1809 only 684 acres remained, and the average from 1883 to 1889 was just twenty-four acres. In 1776 a field of weeds fetched £6 6s. an acre, the ashes used in boiling the yarn.

33. Duel at Cummin, May 1836

    Cummeen · townland · Sligo · 1836

    A duel was fought at Cummin on 17 May 1836 in which three shots were exchanged. The bullets cut the clothing of both principals but neither was wounded.

    Read the passage

    A duel took place at Cummin on 17th May, 1836 ; three shots were exchanged ; but though in each instance the clothing of the principals was cut by the bullets, no actual wound was inflicted.

    Party feeling in the month of January of the following year ran high. Barristers engaged in the Registry Courts, supervising the enrolling of voters on their respective sides, carried their vindictive feelings beyond the precincts of the Law Courts, and several hostile meetings took place. That which was arranged on 7th January, 1837, between Counsellors Baker and Casserly was interrupted by the police ; but this had only the effect of retarding the meeting until the following day, when they met at the Five-Mile-Bourn, where shots were exchanged. The meeting, however, was again broken up by the constabulary, and the unpopular principal was stoned by the mob as he effected his escape on horseback — the duel, as usual, having taken place in presence of the assembled country-side.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 161

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, on the 17th of May 1836, a duel was fought at Cummin. Three shots were exchanged between the principals, and though the bullets cut the clothing of both men on each occasion, no actual wound was inflicted on either. Party feeling in Sligo at the time ran high, and this was part of a wider pattern. The following January, barristers engaged in the Registry Courts carried their vindictive feelings beyond the precincts of the law courts, and several hostile meetings took place across the county. One arranged meeting between Counsellors Baker and Casserly on the 7th of January 1837 was interrupted by the police, but they met the next day at the Five-Mile-Bourn, where shots were exchanged before the constabulary broke it up again. The unpopular principal was stoned by the mob as he escaped on horseback, the duel having taken place, as usual, in the presence of the assembled countryside.

34. Easky to Aughris salmon boat fishing

    Easky · town · Sligo · 1866

    After the restoration of nets, 18 boats fished with 400-yard nets from Easky to Aughris along the Tireragh shore. This was part of the broader salmon fishery that before 1865 shipped approximately 500 boxes annually from the port of Sligo to Liverpool.

    Read the passage

    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 come through Easky in Sligo, this stretch of coast was a salmon fishing ground. An Act in 1863 had abolished the bag nets that lined these shores, but in 1866 the Fishery Inspectors held an inquiry and restored some. From Easky to Aughris, 18 boats went back to fishing with nets 400 yards long each. Before the railway opened to Ballina in 1865, about 500 boxes of salmon a year, caught along this Mayo and Tireragh shore, were shipped by steamer from the port of Sligo to Liverpool.

35. Famine relief-works expansion of Sligo roads, 1845–1849

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1845–1849

    Consequent on the relief-works of 1845–1849, the extent of roads in County Sligo was considerably increased, but many fell into disuse as they were not kept under contract.

    Read the passage

    Consequent on the relief-works, 1845-1849, the extent of roads had been considerably increased ; but a great number of them were not kept in contract, and were allowed to fall into disuse. There are now nearly eighty miles of road in excess of those under contract in 1861, but the cost of maintaining them has diminished by about £1000.

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 100

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Sligo, you're on ground where the famine relief works left their mark on the roads. Between 1845 and 1849, those works considerably increased the extent of roads across County Sligo. But a great number were not kept in contract afterward, and were allowed to fall into disuse. By 1861 there were nearly 80 miles of road in excess of those still under contract, though the cost of maintaining them had diminished by about 1000 pounds.

36. Fever and burials in Sligo's new burial-ground, 1847

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1847

    A virulent fever broke out in March 1847 following famine suffering, and between fifty and sixty interments had already taken place in the new burial-ground even before that date.

    Read the passage

    A virulent fever, consequent on the sufferings of the people, broke out in March, 1847 ; and even before that date, between fifty and sixty interments had already taken place in the new burial-ground. At the close of the year 1848, when the terrors

    G2

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the town carries a grim memory from 1847. A virulent fever broke out in March of that year, following the sufferings of the people, and even before that date between 50 and 60 interments had already taken place in the new burial-ground.

37. Four military barracks in Sligo town, 1766

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1766

    A 1766 map showed four military barracks in Sligo town: the old stone fort (Foot Barracks), the Strand Barracks for cavalry, the Middle Barracks on Holborn-street, and the Horse Barracks near the upper bridge. Small detachments were also stationed at Collooney, Ballymote, and Kilmacteige.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 4

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, a map from 1766 showed four military barracks here. The old stone fort, called the Foot Barracks, was one. The Strand Barracks housed cavalry, with room for 7 officers and 96 non-commissioned officers and privates, stabling for 60 horses, and a hospital attached. The Middle Barracks stood on Holborn-street, and the Horse Barracks sat near the upper bridge. Beyond the town, small detachments were stationed at Collooney, Ballymote, and Kilmacteige, though the Kilmacteige post had been given up as early as 1736. These barracks mattered in a tense time. When America was lost to the Crown of England and the Irish coasts lay open to foreign attack, a body called the Volunteers stepped in. They were 100,000 men, self-clothed, self-disciplined, and unpaid, discharging the duties of the army. From the octogenarian to the schoolboy, all sprang to arms, and several cadet corps formed from the schools of the town and county. They turned later to politics, and on that rock they foundered.

38. Fruitless coal search at Knockvicar

    Knockvicar · townland · Roscommon · 1842

    Nearly fifty years before publication, a shaft was sunk at Knockvicar, east of Lough Key, through Lower Carboniferous Sandstone in a fruitless search for coal. The failure was due to ignorance of basic geological principles.

    Read the passage

    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

39. Head of Cuchullin buried on Tara hill

    Tara · townland · Offaly

    Petrie's paper on Tara mentions that the head of the legendary hero Cuchullin was buried on Tara hill, serving as another example of the ancient practice of separate head burials.

    Read the passage

    " The practice of removing the head from the trunk, in order to bury it in some celebrated localitj^ must have been one of not unusual occurrence amongst the early Irish. Thus we find in the Annals of the Four Masters, that in the barony of Ball}'- brit, in the King's Co, a.d. 1213, was interred the liead of Etech," an ancient Irisli heroine. In Petrie's paper on Tara it is mentioned that the head of Cuchullin was buried on Tara hill. Also, in the Annals of the Four Masters, anno 565, it is recorded that the head of Diarmaid Mac Fergus was buried at Clonmacnoise ; his body where he was killed, in the county Antrim.

    It has been asserted that a duUaghwi, or headless phantom, used to frequent the streets of Sligo, and that the ships at tlie

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 192

40. Head of Diarmaid Mac Fergus buried at Clonmacnoise

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 565

    The Annals of the Four Masters record that in 565 the head of Diarmaid Mac Fergus was buried at Clonmacnoise, while his body was left where he was killed in county Antrim.

    Read the passage

    " The practice of removing the head from the trunk, in order to bury it in some celebrated localitj^ must have been one of not unusual occurrence amongst the early Irish. Thus we find in the Annals of the Four Masters, that in the barony of Ball}'- brit, in the King's Co, a.d. 1213, was interred the liead of Etech," an ancient Irisli heroine. In Petrie's paper on Tara it is mentioned that the head of Cuchullin was buried on Tara hill. Also, in the Annals of the Four Masters, anno 565, it is recorded that the head of Diarmaid Mac Fergus was buried at Clonmacnoise ; his body where he was killed, in the county Antrim.

    It has been asserted that a duUaghwi, or headless phantom, used to frequent the streets of Sligo, and that the ships at tlie

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 192

41. Inn at Ballinafad on 1757 itinerary

    Ballinafad · townland · Sligo · 1757

    An inn at Ballinafad was among the best-known county hostelries dating to 1757, marked on a contemporary itinerary alongside the Strand House Inn at Beltra and the Half-way House on the road to Ballyshannon.

    Read the passage

    The best known inns in tlie county that can date as far back as 1757 were " The Strand House Inn " at Beltra, near Tanrego ; " The Half-way House " on the road to Ballyshannon ; and also that at Ballinafad. These are marked on an itinerary. One inn bore tlie announcement of " Interment " instead of " Entertainment " for man and beast.

    The Rev. John Wesley described in his Journal the great discomfort of the ordinary Irish cabin of the year 1748, for no light could come into the earth and straw-built " cavern " on the master and his cattle but at one hole which served as window, chimney, and door ; indeed, of all the features of Irish peasant life, none helped more to associate in the mind of a stranger the idea of misery with the idea of Ireland than the dirt and disorder of home life. The manure heap at the door ; filth ankledeep at the entrance ; the pig domiciled in the house ; ducks, geese, and fowl roosting on the rafters ; the grunting of pigs, the quacking of ducks, the hissing of geese, the cackle of fowl, and the squalling of children can be more readily imagined than described. The cost of one of these hovels was estimated at from 30s. to 40s., but if covered with straw, and with walls of stone, the cost would be £5 ; if there were outbuildings in addition, the total would be about double that sura. In 1770 the population of the county was considered to be increasing rapidly, the circumstances of the peasantry, in general, having

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 170

42. Johnsport channel filled with sand drift

    Lissadell · street · Cork · 1830

    The Johnsport channel in Drumcliff Bay, which in 1830 had six feet of water at ebb of a spring tide, has for many years been completely filled in by the continuous drift of sand from the west. The once extensive and far-famed oyster-beds of Lissadell have suffered greatly from this drift.

    Read the passage

    Sligo Harbour is an extensive inlet, and comprises the area between Wheat Eock [Carricknacrinnaght) and the Bridge of Sligo. Wheat Eock lies to the S.W. of the peninsula of Eaughly : it is about half a mile in extent, and at low water is often bare. At its southern extremity is the Bird Eock. Drumcliff Bay, on the north side of the entrance, is choked with sandbanks, and appears, year by year, to be shoaling. The Johnsport channel, which in the year 1830 had at ebb of a spring tide six feet of water, for many years past has been quite filled in by the continuous drift of sand from the West. The once extensive and far-famed oyster-beds of Lissadell have suffered very

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 110

43. Limited travel route from Sligo to Mayo via Killala

    Killala · town · Mayo · 1812

    In 1812, there was only one common pass into County Mayo from Sligo, which went by way of Killala. This reflected the limited travel infrastructure in the region at the time.

    Read the passage

    roads were rough, and gradients entirely disregarded, the horses liad to be chosen more for strength than speed. About the year 1790 a new stage-coach was advertised to commence running between Dublin and Sligo. As an inducement to intending passengers the announcement was set forth in large type, that it " was lined with copper, and therefore completely bullet-proof." In 1810 the Sligo mail from Dublin started every night at a quarter before eight, from the " Royal Mail Coach Office, Hibernian Hotel, 40, Dawson-street," with- a " double guard," these two guards being armed to resist highwaymen ; and it was not until the year 1844 that the armed guard on the daily coach to Ballina was first dispensed with. In 1812 there was only one stage-coach plying in the great district that lies between Belfast and Sligo, viz, the Dublin and Londonderry mail. From Sligo, in a direction southward to Tuam, there was only one common pass into the county Mayo, by Killala. Up to the year 1815, remarked Mr. Bianconi, the public accommodation for conveyance of passengers in Ireland was confined to a few mailand day coaches on the great lines of road. Nothing was more striking than the great want in travelling accommodation ; for instance, a farmer living twenty or thirty miles from his market-town spent the first day in riding to it, the second in transacting his business, and the third in returning. A good example of the " expeditious travelling " of the year 1823, is afforded by the following advertisement from the columns of the Sligo Journal: —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 104

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Killala, the Mayo town that once stood on the only common route from Sligo into the county. In 1812, if you were travelling south from Sligo toward Tuam, there was just one pass into Mayo, and it came this way by Killala. That single road tells you how limited travel was in this part of Ireland at the time. Roads were rough, gradients were disregarded, and horses had to be chosen more for strength than speed. A farmer living 20 or 30 miles from his market-town spent the first day riding to it, the second transacting his business, and the third getting home again. Up to 1815, public accommodation for passengers across Ireland was confined to a few mail and day coaches on the great lines of road. There was no network of regular services reaching into districts like this one. So Killala, a small town on the north Mayo coast, sat on a road that carried what little traffic there was between Sligo and the interior of the county.

44. Magical boar legend at Benbulbin

    Benbulbin · mountain or mountain range · Sligo

    Legends of a magical boar are attached to Benbulben in Sligo, part of the wider cycle of Finn and Dermod traditions. The mountain is one of several Sligo locations linked to this Celtic myth.

    Read the passage

    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

45. Magical boar legend at Scurmore

    Scurmore · townland · Sligo

    Scurmore in Sligo is among the locations linked to legends of a magical boar, part of the broader Celtic mythological tradition surrounding Finn and the hunting party in which Dermod met his death.

    Read the passage

    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 Scurmore, you are passing through one of the places tied to an old Celtic legend of a magical boar. The story belongs to the wider tradition of Finn and his hunting party, in which Dermod met his death. These legends were once among the most widely spread in Ireland. Irish-speaking peasants gave the name "beds of Dermod and Grania" to rude stone monuments, saying Dermod built them as shelter for his wife while fleeing Finn's wrath. Benbulben and other spots share the same boar legend, but Scurmore is named among them. Until comparatively recent times a local shannachie would recount these tales. In 1815 Wakefield met one near Nymphsfield who repeated a long history in Irish, calling it the poems of Ossian. When interrupted, the man could not continue without starting again.

46. New Methodist church in Linenhall Street, Sligo, 1802

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1802

    In 1802 the old Bridge Street Methodist building proving insufficient, a new and more commodious chapel was erected in Linenhall Street, Sligo. This was later superseded by the present church in Wine Street.

    Read the passage

    In 1802 the old building in Sligo proving insufficient for the congregation, a new and more commodious one was erected in Linenhall-street. Later on, this was superseded by the present church, situated in Wine-street, and which was opened for Divine service on Sunday, 3rd June, 1832.

    The ministers are itinerant, three years being the longest period they can remain in one place. This, though an excellent system when the body was first organized — -it being then a missionary society, so to speak — is now somewhat out of date.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 71

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, the town had a Methodist congregation that outgrew its old Bridge Street building. In 1802 they built a new, more commodious chapel in Linenhall Street. That chapel itself was later superseded by a church on Wine Street, opened for service on 3 June 1832. The Methodist ministers were itinerant, allowed to remain in one place for no more than three years, a system that suited the body's early missionary days but was already considered somewhat out of date.

47. Overcrowding at Ballinasloe Asylum

    Ballinasloe · town · Galway

    Before 1847, cases of insanity from Sligo and Leitrim were sent to a central asylum at Ballinasloe for the province of Connaught. This asylum became overcrowded, prompting the creation of a new local district.

    Read the passage

    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

    Up ahead is Ballinasloe, the town where Connaught once had its central asylum. Before 1847, people from Sligo and Leitrim whose minds were troubled were sent here for treatment. The asylum became overcrowded, and on the 17th of April 1847 an Order in Council was made constituting Sligo and Leitrim a "Lunatic District," with orders to build a new asylum near Sligo town for 250 inmates. The foundation stone for that new asylum was laid on the 7th of November 1847, before a large concourse of people. 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 was nearly £30,000, with William Deane Butler as architect and James Caldwell as contractor. In 1874 two wings were added at a cost of £14,000, increasing the accommodation from 250 to 470 beds. It was said that the percentage of insane was rising year by year, but this could be accounted for by better registration, a lower death rate among the insane due to improved treatment, and the fact that many were now placed in restraint who formerly would have been left at large. The increase of insanity was therefore greater in appearance than in reality.

48. Relief works and oatmeal wages in Sligo Union

    Sligo · town · Sligo

    The relief committee for the distressed poor in Sligo town and St. John's Union divided recipients into those receiving gratuitous aid and those earning it. Labourers were paid in oatmeal rather than money, proportional to family size and work performed. Weekly expenditure across four districts totalled £262 15s. 4d.

    Read the passage

    The report of the committee for relief of the distressed poor in the town of Sligo, Union of St. John's, dated 28th June, is given as a specimen of these returns (Appendix E) . As may be noticed, the recipients of relief were divided into two classes, those who received gratuitous aid and those who earned it ; no portion of the wages given for work was paid in mone)j, but each labourer received a quantity of oatmeal proportioned to the number of his family and the work performed by him.

    The total amount of weekly expenditure for the four Districts was £262 15.s. 4f/., which for seven weeks amounted to £1839 7s. 4rf., the sum that would be requii-ed, at the very lowest calculation, to preserve the poor from starvation till

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this was a town where a relief committee organized aid for the distressed poor. A report dated 28th June divided recipients into two classes: those who received free aid and those who earned it. No money was paid for work; instead, each labourer received a quantity of oatmeal, proportioned to the size of his family and the work he performed. The total weekly expenditure across four districts came to £262 15s. 4d., and over seven weeks that amounted to £1839 7s. 4d., described as the lowest sum needed to preserve the poor from starvation.

49. River Owenmore drainage survey of 1845

    near Owenmore River · river · Sligo · 1845

    In 1845, William Phibbs commissioned a survey of the River Owenmore bed to free over 1,500 acres from constant flooding. The surveyor estimated the damaged land would be worth about half as much again if drained.

    Read the passage

    There is scarcely a lake or river in the county of which the surface does not require lowering : several have been improved, but in most cases the efforts have failed owing to want of combined action on the part of those interested. So far back as the year 1845, the late Mr. William Phibbs had a survey made of the bed of the River Owenmore, for the purpose of freeing upwards of 1500 acres from constant flooding. The damaged land was estimated by the surveyor as worth about one-half more if freed of water.

    Ballygawley, or Ballydawley Lake — styled Lough Cas in the survey of 1809-1818 — picturesquely situated at the foot of the Slieve-da-en range of mountains, is embosomed in wood which may be viewed as now representing the primeval mantle that had formerly covered the neighbouring slopes. Some years ago the level of the water was considerably reduced by drainage, and the site of a Lake Dwelling was discovered.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 136

50. Rosses Point as discharge point before quay improvements

    Rosses Point · town · Sligo · 1889–1892

    Large foreign steamers and sailing vessels were obliged to discharge at Rosses Point rather than at the Sligo quays, owing to insufficient channel depth. The proposed deepening of the channel was driven by the urgent necessity of enabling these vessels to discharge at the quays instead.

    Read the passage

    Commencing at Cartrou Point, tiie old channel was variable in depth, and circuitous, being deflected from the north by the *' Corrigen Shoal ; " the other parts of the channel were subject to constant changes. The Lower Bank, Middle Flat, and Southern Channel had materially altered between the date of the Survey made by Mr. Nimmo in 1822, and that by Mr. St. Leger in 1844, so that where there had been a depth of five feet at low springs, there was in 1844 a bank nearly three feet high, and the configuration of the banks had also considerably changed. In the year 1844, nearly £1000 was given by various gentlemen to improve the harbour ; of this sum, nearly £800 was subscribed within the county. Mr. St. Leger's suggestions were adopted with some modifications, and resulted in the excavation of the present channel, which it is now in contemplation to deepen from the Blennick to the deep-water berths, owing to the urgent necessity of enabling large foreign steamers and sailing vessels to discharge at the quays instead of at Eosses Point. The estimated cost of the work is about £13,000, but the expenditure might be undertaken with financial safety, for the trade of the port is steadily increasing. The augmentation in revenue from the year 1864 to 1889 has amounted to about 60 per cent., and during the last three years there has been a surplus revenue —after providing for all ordinary expenditure — of upwards of £1000 per annum.' To meet this large outlay, it is proposed to increase the dues upon vessels from foreign parts, and for this there is ample margin, as Sligo is one of the cheapest ports in the United Kingdom, so far as tonnage dues are concerned ; consequently tliere seems very little doubt that before long steamers and ships will

    ' For a table of the trade of the port, &c., see Appendi-x. H. Q2

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 114

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Rosses Point in Sligo, this was where large foreign steamers and sailing vessels had to discharge their cargo, because the channel into Sligo harbour was too shallow for them to reach the quays. The old channel from Cartrou Point was variable in depth and winding, pushed north by the Corrigen Shoal. Between Mr. Nimmo's survey in 1822 and Mr. St. Leger's in 1844, the banks shifted so much that where there had been 5 feet of water at low springs, there was by 1844 a bank nearly 3 feet high. In 1844, nearly £1000 was subscribed to improve the harbour, most of it from within the county, and St. Leger's suggestions were adopted with modifications, leading to the excavation of the present channel. Now, around 1889 to 1892, there was a plan to deepen that channel from the Blennick to the deep-water berths, driven by what the source calls the "urgent necessity of enabling large foreign steamers and sailing vessels to discharge at the quays instead of at Rosses Point." The estimated cost was about £13,000. The trade of the port had been steadily increasing, with revenue rising about 60 per cent from 1864 to 1889, and the last three years showing a surplus of upwards of £1000 per annum. To fund the work, it was proposed to increase dues on foreign vessels, and there was ample room for that, as Sligo was one of the cheapest ports in the United Kingdom for tonnage dues.

51. Rosses Point boatmen farmers and pilots more than fishers

    Rosses Point · town · Sligo

    Little fishing was carried on at Rosses Point because the boatmen were mostly farmers and pilots who fished only when herring or mackerel came close to shore.

    Read the passage

    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 pass through Rosses Point in Sligo, there's a reason the harbour here never became a real fishing station. The boatmen were mostly farmers and pilots, and they did not fish much unless the herrings or mackerel came close to the shore. So the fishing carried on here was slight, a sideline for men whose main work lay in the fields or guiding ships. The serious trawling happened elsewhere in Sligo Bay, out of Raughly, where one year alone saw 40,000 cod, 25,000 mackerel, and 20,000 herrings brought in. Even one of the loudest opponents of trawling ended up owning a successful boat there. Mullaghmore had the larger boats, though its harbour was counted a failure, good only for keeping the local fishery from dying out entirely. The oyster beds along the Sligo coast were poor and did not repay the money and care spent on them, though mussels were shipped to England in considerable numbers.

52. Sir George Radcliffe, originator of Annals of Four Masters, MP for Sligo 1634

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1634

    Sir George Radcliffe, resident at Rathmines, Dublin, was elected to represent County Sligo in the Dublin Parliament of 1634. The compilers of the Annals of the Four Masters identified him as the originator of that celebrated historical work and noted his parliamentary representation in their preface.

    Read the passage

    ' The latter was the originator of the celebrated historical work which is now commonly known as " The Annals of the Four Masters"; and in the prefacb the compilers state that he was " one of the two knights elected to represent the county of Sligo in the Parliament held in Dublin this present year of our Lord, 1634."

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 215

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this was the county Sir George Radcliffe represented in the Dublin Parliament of 1634. He lived at Rathmines in Dublin, but the compilers of the Annals of the Four Masters named him as the originator of that celebrated historical work, calling him one of the two knights elected to represent County Sligo.

53. Sisters of Mercy convent and schools expansion in Sligo

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1849–1890

    The Sisters of Mercy opened public schools on 24 September 1849 in their new convent in Sligo, and gradually expanded their works. Over 800 pupils attended the extern schools and 200 interns of all classes were under the constant care of the Sisters.

    Read the passage

    When their new Convent was completed the sisters opened public schools on September 24th, 1849, and from that date the several works undertaken began to develop gradually. One wing of the new building was devoted to a Training School for teachers, an orphanage, and a class in training for domestic service. In 1871 an Industrial School was opened, and the Cathedral being then completed, the old parish church and grounds were handed over to be appropriated to the orphans. St. Laurence's Industrial School, under the Act (31 Vict. c. 25), had, in 1888, 152 inmates; the total cost of maintenance and management was £2439 8s. 7d., together with £285 15s. 2d. for rent and interest. The actual industrial profit was £367 14s. \d., the net cost per head being £15 10s. 2d. In 1876 a handsome chapel was added to the west end of the Convent building. In 1880 the Sisters removed the extern schools to more spacious premises on the opposite side of the road. In the same year they built a bakery for the purpose of training their intern pupils and servants to that useful branch of domestic economy. A sewing school for extern girls was also set on foot. They are here taught various kinds of plain and fancy needlework, &c. In 1884 a large new public laundry was built on the Convent premises. In 1888 the accommodation being found insufficient, large new schools were erected. In 1890 the charge of the Albert-road Male Inf ant- School was handed over to the Sisters. The " Kindergarten System " has been adopted of late in the Infant-Schools, and is found attractive to the little children. Over 800 pupils now attend the extern schools, and 200 interns of all classes are under the constant care of the Sisters.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 65

    As the companion tells it

    In Sligo, the Sisters of Mercy opened public schools on 24 September 1849 in their new convent, and from that date their works grew steadily. One wing held a training school for teachers, an orphanage, and a domestic service class, and in 1871 an Industrial School opened; once the Cathedral was finished the old parish church and grounds were handed over for the orphans. St. Laurence's Industrial School had 152 inmates in 1888, with maintenance costing £2439 and industrial profit of £367, and over 800 pupils attended the extern schools while 200 interns of all classes were under the constant care of the Sisters. A chapel was added in 1876, and in 1880 the extern schools moved to larger premises, a bakery was built to train intern pupils, a sewing school taught plain and fancy needlework to extern girls, and a public laundry went up in 1884. Larger new schools were erected in 1888, and in 1890 the Sisters took charge of the Albert-road Male Infant School, where the Kindergarten System had been adopted.

54. Sligo Borough Magistrates Commission Granted

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1843–1846

    The Municipal Reform Act initially did not grant a separate Commission of the Peace for Sligo Borough magistrates. An application to the Lord Lieutenant in February 1843 was successfully renewed in 1846, appointing James Madden and Aldermen Walker, Kernaghan, and Anderson as the earliest Borough magistrates.

    Read the passage

    on the 27th February, 184^3, an application was made to tlie Lord Lieutenant for that favour, and it was successfully renewed in 1846, James Madden, Aldermen Walker, Kernaghan, and Anderson being the earliest Borough magistrates.

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

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 52

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town where the Municipal Reform Act at first left the borough without its own magistrates. An application went to the Lord Lieutenant on the 27th of February 1843 asking for a separate Commission of the Peace, and that favour was successfully renewed in 1846. James Madden and Aldermen Walker, Kernaghan, and Anderson became the earliest Borough magistrates. The Town Council had been dissatisfied from the start with their limited powers over taxation and other matters. In March 1855 they resolved that the boundaries of the borough be extended to the existing Parliamentary boundaries under the Town's Improvement Act of 1854. The Lord Lieutenant refused consent after deliberation, on account of the increased area sought to be included, solely for extra taxation. Several attempts to revive the scheme failed. Some councillors secured seats in the West Ward and kept pushing. A bill for the improvement of the borough was drafted by Messrs Kernaghan and Saunders, presented to the Town Council, and after animated debates it was decided on the 13th of November 1867 to proceed. The Corporation seal was affixed in December, and in May of the following year Kernaghan and Saunders were appointed solicitors for passing the bill. Few of the Town and Harbour Commissioners favoured it, as it would remodel their constitution.

55. Sligo butter market branding system introduced, 1880

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1880

    In July 1880 brands marked 'Sligo Corporation' with quality grades from first to fourth were provided for casks in the butter-market. The Mayor of Sligo was appointed weighmaster at that time.

    Read the passage

    On the 30th July, 1880, brands were provided for casks in the butter-market. They bore the words " Sligo Corporation " in a circle, with the several qualifications of "first," "second," " third," " fourth," in the centre. The Mayor of Sligo— for the time being — was appointed weighmaster.

    A memorial having been presented in the year 1884 to the Sligo Corporation in regard to the manner in whicli the buttermarket was conducted, a committee of inquiry was appointed by that body. In their report it was recommended that during the winter months a kit or small firkin should be used instead of the large one then so general, justly observing " that the sooner butter can be sold, the better the quality will be : this being specially the case with reference to butter made during the winter months, when cattle are housed." The committee also recommended the abolition of the custom of deducting lib. from the weight of every firkin of butter.

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 119

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, you are in a town that once ran a careful butter market. On 30 July 1880, brands were provided for casks in the butter market, each bearing the words "Sligo Corporation" in a circle, with the grades "first," "second," "third," or "fourth" at the centre. The Mayor of Sligo, for the time being, was appointed weighmaster. Four years later, in 1884, a memorial was presented to the Sligo Corporation about how the market was conducted, and a committee of inquiry was appointed. Their report recommended using a kit or small firkin during the winter months instead of the large firkin then common, observing that the sooner butter could be sold, the better the quality would be, especially butter made in winter when cattle are housed. The committee also recommended ending the custom of deducting one pound from the weight of every firkin of butter.

56. Sligo householders ordered to repair streets 1718

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1718

    On 24th June 1718, the Corporation of Sligo ordered every inhabitant to repair the street immediately before their respective houses on warning from overseers. Those who refused or neglected could have their property distrained to pay for the work.

    Read the passage

    "June 24th, 1718. — Whereas the streets of the Corporation are in several places out of repair, we therefore order that every person inhabiting in the said Borough shall, immediately on warning given them, repair the streets before their respective houses, as it shall be ordered by the undernamed persons, overseers of the said works, and in case they, or any of them, do refuse or neglect to do as the overseers order them, that the overseers shall set men to work to do the same so neglected, and have power to distrain the persons so neglecting and appraise the distresses so taken, and dispose of according to law, and pay the workmen for doing said work and restore the overplus (if any be) to the persons so distrained.

    "Thomas Jennings, Provost. " Overseers: — " Tlic Provost for the time heinj and the Burgesses^

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 102

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Sligo now. Back on the 24th of June 1718, the Corporation here found its streets in several places out of repair and ordered every inhabitant of the borough to fix the street immediately before their own house, once the overseers gave warning. Anyone who refused or neglected the work could have their property distrained. The overseers would set men to do the neglected repairs, take the cost from the person's goods, pay the workmen, and hand back anything left over. Thomas Jennings was Provost, and the overseers were the Provost and the Burgesses.

57. Sligo listed in scheduled distress area, 1822

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1822

    Sligo was included in the scheduled distress area during the 1822 famine, credited with a population of 127,000. A meeting in the City of London raised subscriptions for relief of distress in Ireland.

    Read the passage

    A meeting was held in the City of London for the purpose of raising subscriptions for the relief of distress in Ireland. It would appear that the distressed districts were equal in extent to one-half of the superficial contents of the Kingdom ; Sligo was in the scheduled area, and was credited with a population of 127,000. The difference between this famine and the subsequent visitation of 1845 to 1848 was, that although the potato crop failed, the grain was generally good. The food distress in the County became very apparent in the commencement of May ; in the middle of the month a bounty of 10s. per ton was paid on the importation of seed potatoes into the port ; and at the close of the month a meeting of the County gentry was convened

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 32

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, this was a town caught in the 1822 famine. Sligo was listed in the scheduled distress area, credited with a population of 127,000. The distressed districts covered roughly half the kingdom. A meeting was held in the City of London to raise subscriptions for relief of distress in Ireland. Unlike the later famine of 1845 to 1848, the potato crop failed here but the grain was generally good. Food distress in the county became very apparent at the start of May. In the middle of the month a bounty of 10 shillings per ton was paid on the importation of seed potatoes into the port, and at the close of the month a meeting of the county gentry was convened.

58. Sligo Masonic Lodge and St. John's Day procession

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1788–1825

    The earliest Masonic Lodge in Sligo was founded in 1788. On St. John's Day, the Masons would walk in procession to St. John's Church in Sligo, carrying their insignia and the various emblems of their order.

    Read the passage

    The earliest record of Masonic Lodges in Sligo is of one founded in the year, 1788. Fig. 63 is a representation of the seal of the Lodge.

    On St. John's Day the Masons of Shgo were in the habit of walking in procession to St. John's Church, with all their insignia, and bearing the various emblems of their order. A sermon suitable to the occasion was delivered by the Minister after the service. The following is a description, given in 1825, of this annual procession : — " At an early hour the principal streets were crowded, the windows filled with beauty and fashion, and the most intense anxiety displayed to witness the annual tribute of thanksgiving to that shrine, the fountain of brotherly love, from which the great principles of

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 205

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town has a Masonic history going back to 1788, when the earliest lodge here was founded. On St. John's Day the Masons of Sligo would walk in procession to St. John's Church, carrying all their insignia and the various emblems of their order, and after the service the minister would deliver a sermon suited to the occasion. A description from 1825 captures the scene: the principal streets were crowded early in the day, the windows filled with beauty and fashion, and intense anxiety was displayed to witness what was called their annual tribute of thanksgiving to that shrine, the fountain of brotherly love.

59. Sligo meat market inspection regulations

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1781–1866

    An attempt to regulate the meat market in Sligo was made as early as 1781. In 1866 the Corporation resolved that the Mayor should inspect meats for sale and forfeit any deemed unfit for human consumption.

    Read the passage

    So early as 1781 an attempt was made to regulate the meat market. In 1866 it was resolved tliat the Mayor should from time to time inspect " meats exhibited for sale, and have any such as may be, in his opinion, imfit for human food, forfeited."

    In 1881 the Town Council resolved to purchase Mr. Wynne's interest in the corn and butter markets, tolls, customs, and rent, and all buildings in connexion with them, together with the fair-green and tlie pig-market, &c. When the Corporation liad complete control of the markets, &c., they set to work energetically in the way of improvement. A deputation, including the Borough Engineer (Mr. Cochrane) of the Town Council, visited various towns in Ulster, i.e. Strabane, Derry, Coleraine, Armagh, and Newry, to inspect the management, after which they made a report which was in many respects valuable for the afterregulation of the market. The concluding paragraph may be given : —

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 118

    As the companion tells it

    Sligo town has an old history of trying to keep its food markets honest. As early as 1781 an attempt was made to regulate the meat market here. Then in 1866 the Corporation resolved that the Mayor should from time to time inspect "meats exhibited for sale, and have any such as may be, in his opinion, unfit for human food, forfeited." So the Mayor himself was meant to walk the market, look over what was on the slab, and seize anything he judged no good for eating.

60. Sligo Militia funding levied in St. John's Parish

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1798–1807

    Vestry books of the Union of St. John's record money being levied on the district to maintain the Sligo Militia's full strength. In 1798, £40 19s was levied for procuring the quota of men, and a 1807 vestry meeting in St. John's Church discussed raising 33 men for the county militia.

    Read the passage

    " Eesolved. — That the sum. of forty pounds nineteen shillings sterl. be applotted and levied off the Union at large, and paid to the Col. of the Sligo Militia for the purpose of procuring the Quota of men to be added to s"*. Reg', according to Act ParP. £40 19s. Od." 7th April, 1798.

    At a vestry meeting held in St. John's Church on the 10th December, 1807—

    Internet Archive historyofsligoco00wood, Chapter 15

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Sligo, vestry books of St. John's Union record the town bearing the cost of the Sligo Militia. On 7 April 1798, £40 and 19 shillings was levied across the union, paid to the Colonel of the Sligo Militia to procure the quota of men required by Parliament. On 10 December 1807 a vestry in St. John's Church took up raising 33 men for county militia.