Name: The history of the town and county of the town of Galway, from the earliest period to the present time (vol. n/a)
Author: James Hardiman

Address to Galway townspeople on poverty and decay

Galway · city · Galway

Following the disputed election, opponents addressed the assembled townspeople of Galway, attributing the town's wretchedness to misrepresentation. They described prisons crowded with debtors, quays without shipping, empty store-houses, and poor without employment as consequences of political neglect.

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to distinguish it from these new improvements. The return of the inhabitants of the town and liberties, under the census act of 1812, amounted only to twenty- four thousand four hundred and eighty-four; But those to whom the enumeration was entrusted were, according to their own subsequent accusations of each other, guilty of gross neglect and omission in the execution of that duty. The general and most probable opinion is, that the population amounts at present to about forty thousand, 20 which comprehends a vast number of daily increasing poor, without trade, manufactures, or adequate employment. The consideration of this growing evil, combined with other local wants and inconveniences, at length induced many of the inhabitants to attribute the entire to neglect and inattention to the interests of the town, by its parliamentary representatives; and it was finally concluded, that if it had been represented by members acquainted with its situation or solicitous for its welfare, these increasing evils would have been prevented, and many measures might have been adopted for its benefit. While these feelings were yet alive in the minds of the principal inhabitants, it happened, rather opportunely, that a vacancy occurred in the representation of the town. The sheriffs, without anticipating any resistance, proceeded, according to the usual formality of election, to return the Hon. Frederick Ponsonby, the nominee of Mr. Daly, but they were warmly opposed by colonel Richard Martin, John French Madden2! and Richard Maunsell, esqrs. who formally rotested against the illegality of the proceeding, as being held without due notice. Their objections, however, were over-ruled, and the member was declared duly returned. These gentlemen then took the opportunity of addressing the town's-people, who had assembled merely from curiosity : they informed them, that the repetition of what they had that day witnessed had occasioned all the wretchedness of poverty, all the immorality and vice, by which they were on every side surrounded : that, although they appeared unconscious to the fact, this was the real and sole cause of all their distress : hence it was, that their prisons were crowded with debtors and malefactors, their quays left without shipping, their store-houses empty, their poor without employment; and, in fine, that the town itself had be-

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 158

As the companion tells it

This is Galway. In 1812 the census counted only 24,484 people in the town and its liberties, but the enumerators later accused each other of gross neglect. The general opinion was that the population stood closer to 40,000, and among that number were vast ranks of the poor, increasing daily, without trade, manufactures, or adequate employment. Many inhabitants laid the blame for this growing misery on neglect by their parliamentary representatives. They argued that members acquainted with the town's situation, and solicitous for its welfare, would have prevented these evils and adopted measures for its benefit. A vacancy then occurred in the representation. The sheriffs, expecting no resistance, returned the Hon. Frederick Ponsonby, the nominee of Mr. Daly. Colonel Richard Martin, John French Madden, and Richard Maunsell formally protested, calling the proceeding illegal for want of due notice. Their objections were over-ruled, and the member was declared duly returned. These gentlemen then addressed the townspeople, who had assembled merely from curiosity. They told them that the repetition of what they had that day witnessed had occasioned all the wretchedness of poverty, all the immorality and vice, by which they were on every side surrounded. This, they said, though the people appeared unconscious of it, was the real and sole cause of all their distress. Hence their prisons were crowded with debtors and malefactors, their quays left without shipping, their store-houses empty, their poor without employment.

Judge escorts son to execution at eastern extremity of Galway

Galway · city · Galway

A judge in Galway steadfastly sentenced his own son to death for murder, spending the night watching him in the dungeon. In the morning, he assisted the executioner and escorted his son through the streets to the usual place of punishment at the eastern extremity of the town.

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the first rank and influence in town, and solicited to consent to a reprieve i his relations and friends joined in earnest entreaty, beseeching that his blood might not be shed; but the inflexibility of the judge resisted the supplication, and was inexorable. Whatever the inward struggles of the father and the man might have been, the firmness of the patriot was unshaken. He was not to be wrought upon, either by the dread of popular clamour, the odium that it would attach to his name, the prayers and tears of his kneeling family, the undescribable despair of the hapless young lady, or, harder to withstand than all those, the yearnings of a paternal breast : but, with a magnanimity that would have done credit to the sternest hero of Greece or Rome, he himself descended, at night, to the dungeon where his son lay, for the double and direful purpose of announcing to him, that his sentence was to be executed on the following morning, and of watching with him, to prevent the possibility of his escape. One can hardly fancy any thing more appalling than such a vigil as this. He entered, holding a lamp, and accompanied by a priest, (from whom the account was received,) and, locking the gate, kept fast the keys in his hands, and seated himself in a recess of the wall. His son drew near, and, with a faltering tongue, asked if he had any thing to hope; he answered, " No, my son; your life is forfeited to the laws, and at sun-rise you must die. I have prayed for your prosperity, but that is at an end — with the world you have done for ever — were any other but your wretched father your judge, I might have dropped a tear over my child's misfortune, and solicited for his life, even though stained with murder — but you must die — these are the last drops which shall quench the sparks of nature — and, if you dare hope, implore that Heaven may not shut the gates of mercy on the destroyer of his fellow creature. I am now come to join with this good man in petitioning GoD to give you such composure as will enable you to meet your punishment with becoming resignation." Then, as if fearful of relapsing into his natural softness, and of forgetting the great duty he had imposed upon himself, he requested the priest to proceed : they knelt down, and administered the rites of the church to the unhappy criminal, to fortify him for the approaching catastrophe. The young man's native spirit seemed gradually to be restored; he joined fervently in prayer; sighed heavily from time to time; but spoke of life and its concerns no more : and thus, with intervals of silence, the woeful night passed over. It was scarcely day, when the expected summons to prepare was given to the guards without The father rose, and assisted the executioner to remove the irons which still bound his unfortunate son; then, unlocking the door, he ordered him to stand between the priest and himself, and lean upon an arm of each- In this manner they ascended a flight of steps, lined with soldiers, and were passing on to gain the street, where a strong escort had been appointed to receive and go along with them to the usual place of punishment, at the eastern extremity of the town. The concluding scene of the father s struggles and the son's misery was, it might be supposed, now very nigh; but a trial more severe yet awaited them, and the unparalleled firmness of the former was to undergo a still further proof. The relations of the

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 68

As the companion tells it

Galway holds a story of a judge and his son. The son had committed murder, and the judge sentenced him to death. Relations and friends begged for a reprieve. The young man's family knelt in tears, and a young lady stood in despair. But the judge would not be moved. He would not yield to popular clamour, nor to the odium it would bring upon his name, nor to the prayers of his kneeling family, nor to the yearnings of a father's heart. At night he went down to the dungeon where his son lay, holding a lamp, accompanied by a priest whose account later told what happened. He locked the gate, kept the keys fast in his hands, and seated himself in a recess of the wall. His son drew near and asked, with a faltering tongue, if he had anything to hope. The father answered, "No, my son; your life is forfeited to the laws, and at sun-rise you must die." He told him that with the world he had done for ever, and that if he dared hope, he should implore that Heaven would not shut the gates of mercy on the destroyer of his fellow creature. Then he joined the priest in prayer, and they administered the rites of the church. The woeful night passed in intervals of silence. At daybreak the father rose and assisted the executioner to remove the irons that still bound his son. He unlocked the door, ordered him to stand between the priest and himself, and lean upon an arm of each. They ascended a flight of steps lined with soldiers and passed on to the street, where a strong escort waited to go with them to the usual place of punishment at the eastern extremity of the town.

Rathcruachan, ancient palace of the kings of Connaught

near Rathcroghan · monument · Roscommon

The ancient palace of Cruachan, or Rathcruachan, was erected near the village of Ballintubber between Boyle and Elphin in County Roscommon. It served as the capital of Connaught and residence of its kings for nearly 1,300 years. Some ruins still remain, including a rath and the famous royal burial place called Reilig-na-Riogh.

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divided the kingdom into two parts; one of which was called Leath thuadh, or the northern, and the other, Leath dheas, or the southern half. This division was effected by a line or boundary, drawn from Galway to Dublin, through Eisgirriada, or the long mountains, which were fixed upon as the limits of both kingdoms. It is further related, that, in the reign of Eochaidh Feidhlioch, monarch of Ireland, Connaught, then the largest province in the kingdom, underwent a division into three equal parts, which that prince bestowed upon three favourite petty dynasts, Fiochach, Eochaidh- Allat and Tinne; the second of whom received the territory from Galway to Drobhaoi6, and the third of the district from Galway to Lumneach : that he then erected the ancient palace of Cruachan, or Rathcruachan, (situate near the present village of Ballintubber, between the town of Boyle and Elphin, in the county of Roscommon,) which from that time became the capital of Connaught, and, until long after the arrival of the English, for the space of near 1300 years, was the residence of its kings. 4 Some ruins of this once venerated place still remain, a rath, and a famous burying-place of the kings of Connaught, called by the natives Reilig-na-Riogh.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 36

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Rathcroghan stands what was once the palace of Cruachan, or Rathcruachan. The story begins with Eochaidh Feidhlioch, monarch of Ireland. Before his time, the kingdom had been split in two: Leath thuadh, the northern half, and Leath dheas, the southern half, divided by a line drawn from Galway to Dublin through the long mountains, Eisgirriada. In Eochaidh Feidhlioch's reign, Connaught, then the largest province, was divided into three equal parts. He bestowed these upon three favourite petty dynasts: Fiochach, Eochaidh-Allat, and Tinne. Eochaidh-Allat received the territory from Galway to Drobhaoi. Tinne received the district from Galway to Lumneach. Eochaidh Feidhlioch then erected the palace of Cruachan, near the present village of Ballintubber, between Boyle and Elphin in County Roscommon. From that time it became the capital of Connaught and, until long after the arrival of the English, for near 1,300 years, the residence of its kings. Some ruins of this once venerated place still remain: a rath, and a famous burying-place of the kings of Connaught, called by the natives Reilig-na-Riogh.

O'Shaughnessy dies in Gort castle after Boyne

Gort · townland · Galway · 1690–1698

Roger O'Shaughnessy joined King James's forces, fought at the Battle of the Boyne, returned home sick and died in the castle of Gort on 11 July 1690. His estates were declared forfeited and subsequently granted by King William to Sir Thomas Prendergast. The O'Shaughnessy family's legal efforts to recover the estate of Gort ultimately failed.

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1688, married Helen, the daughter of Connor O'Bryen, lord viscount Clare. He afterwards joined king James's forces, and was engaged at the battle of the Boyne, from which he returned home sick, though not wounded, and died in the castle of Gort, on the 11th July, 1690. He was attainted on 11th May, 1697, and king William granted all his estates, (which were declared forfeited,) in custodian, to Gustavus, the first baron Hamilton ; but he having soon after obtained a grant of other lands, the king, by letters patent, dated 18th June, 1697, granted to Thos. (afterwards Sir Thomas) Prendergast, in consideration of his good and acceptable services, (the discovery of the assassination plot, etc.) all the estate, real acd personal, of Roger O'Shaughnessy, esq., deceased, in Gort-Inchigorie, and several other lands in the barony of Kiltartan, and County of Galway. By a subsequent patent, dated 20th September, 1698, reciting the foregoing grant, and also that his majesty was informed, that the estates were then annually worth £500, but that they had since proved very deficient of that sum ; and it being the royal intention that £500 a year should have been granted , several other lands of the clear yearly value of 3341. 0s. 2£d. situate in the several counties of Tipperary, Galway, Roscommon and Westmeath, were granted accordingly. — Rot. Pat. 10 William III.-- Colonel William 0'Shaughnessy_, the heir of Roger, the last possessor, having died in exile in France, in 1744, was succeeded by his cousin-german, Coleman, then titular bishop of Ossory, who instituted proceed-
ings at law against Sir Thomas Prendergast, the son of the patentee, for the recovery of the estate of Gort. These proceedings were continued after the bishop's decease by his next relative, Roebuck, and after his death by Joseph O'Shaughnessy, his son, who, having to contend against wealth and power, without the aid of either, was ultimately defeated ; and thus ended one of the most ancient and respectable aboriginal families in Ireland.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 178

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Gort, a castle once stood where Roger O'Shaughnessy died. He had married Helen, daughter of Connor O'Bryen, lord viscount Clare. He joined King James's forces and fought at the Battle of the Boyne. He came home sick, though not wounded, and died in the castle on the 11th of July, 1690. He was attainted on the 11th of May, 1697, and King William granted all his estates, declared forfeited, in custodian to Gustavus, the first baron Hamilton. Hamilton soon obtained other lands, and the king, by letters patent dated the 18th of June, 1697, granted instead to Thomas, afterwards Sir Thomas Prendergast, all the estate of Roger O'Shaughnessy in Gort-Inchigorie and other lands in the barony of Kiltartan and County of Galway, in consideration of his good and acceptable services, including the discovery of the assassination plot. By a subsequent patent, dated the 20th of September, 1698, the king recited that the estates were annually worth 500 pounds but had proved deficient, and other lands of the clear yearly value of 334 pounds in Tipperary, Galway, Roscommon and Westmeath were granted accordingly. Colonel William O'Shaughnessy, heir of Roger, died in exile in France in 1744. He was succeeded by his cousin-german Coleman, titular bishop of Ossory, who brought proceedings at law against Sir Thomas Prendergast, son of the patentee, for the recovery of the estate. These proceedings continued after the bishop's decease by his next relative, Roebuck, and after Roebuck's death by Joseph O'Shaughnessy, his son. Joseph, contending against wealth and power without the aid of either, was ultimately defeated. And so ended, in the words of the source, "one of the most ancient and respectable aboriginal families in Ireland."

Galway soldiers drowned near Dublin, 1644

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1644

In May 1644, Captain Willoughby's men, formerly of the Galway fort, were sent from Dublin to Bristol but their ship was taken by Captain Swanley near Dublin. Swanley threw seventy of the soldiers overboard on the pretext that they were Irish.

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7. That all the said captain's friends of Galway and its vicinity." "In May, or acquaintance, either in Oranmore, 1644, lord Ormonde sent captain Anthony Kilcolgan, or elsewhere, that shall please, Willoughby, with one hundred and fifty have free liberty to march away wich the men, which had formerly served in the said captain Willoughby, and shall have fort of Galway, from Dublin to Bristol : full benefit of the said articles, as far the ship which carried them was taken by forth as concerns them, and as the same captain Swanley,, who in two parliament is allowed or granted to those in the fort, ships committed great ravages on the sea
8. That after these articles are signed about Dublin, who was so inhuman as to and sealed, on both sides, the said captain throw seventy of the soldiers overboard, Willoughby shall be admitted to send a under pretence that they were Irish." — letter with a flying seal to the right Carte, Vol. I. p. 481.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 99

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dublin, you are near the waters where, in May 1644, one of the cruellest acts of that war took place. Lord Ormonde sent Captain Anthony Willoughby, with 150 men who had formerly served in the fort of Galway, from Dublin to Bristol. The ship which carried them was taken by Captain Swanley, who, in two parliament ships, committed great ravages on the sea about Dublin. Swanley was so inhuman as to throw 70 of the soldiers overboard, under pretence that they were Irish. The words of the source call the act inhuman, and Carte records it on page 481 of his first volume. The men had served in the Galway fort. They were being transported under orders, not fighting, when Swanley seized the ship and chose to kill them because of who they were.

Great frost, famine and pestilence in Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1739–1741

During the great frost of 1739 the river was frozen from the bridge to the mouth of Lough Corrib, and recreations were held on the ice. Famine and pestilence followed, and in summer 1741 an epidemic fever raged so violently that the assizes were adjourned to Tuam.

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23 During the great frost in 1730, the river was frozen from the bridge to the mouth of Lough-Corrib, and continual recreations were held on the ice, from the Wood-quay to Newcastle and Terrilanbridge. This memorable winter was followed by famine and pestilence, in which multitudes of the poor perished ; and, during the summer of 1741, an epidemic fever raged so violently in the town, that the judges adjourned the assizes to Tuam. — Annals.
1 The year 1745 was remarkable for a great fall of snow, by which vast numbers of sheep and black-cattle were destroyed. The farmers surrendered their

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 185

As the companion tells it

Galway saw a great frost in 1739 that froze the river from the bridge to the mouth of Lough Corrib, and people held continual recreations on the ice from Wood-quay to Newcastle and Terrilan-bridge. Famine and pestilence followed, and multitudes of the poor perished. In the summer of 1741 an epidemic fever raged so violently that the judges adjourned the assizes to Tuam.

Lynch's hanging of his own son at Dead-man's-lane

Lombard Street · street · Galway · 1624

A Galway magistrate named Lynch hanged his own son from an arched window of his house after the populace and family tried to prevent the execution. The house still stood in Lombard-street, known as 'Dead-man's-lane,' with a black marble skull-and-crossbones carving dated 1624 marking the event.

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unhappy culprit surrounded the father : they conjured him again, by all the solicitude of nature and compassion, to spare his son. His wretched and disconsolate mother, whose name was Blake, flew in distraction to the heads of her own family, and at length prevailed on them, for the honor of their house, to rescue him, and prevent the ignominy his death must bring on their name. They armed to deliver him from prison. Prodigious crowds had gathered, and were loud in their outcries for mercy, threatening instant destruction to the magistrate, if not complied with. In vain did he exhort them to preserve tranquility, and surfer the law to take its course. The soldiers themselves were melted by the circumstances of this most pitiable case, and, no longer able or willing to do their duty, permitted the populace to approach the house, and to continue their well-meant, but unlawful, opposition. To attempt now to pass through them was hopeless : but having withstood their tears and prayers, and the still stronger appeal of his own affections, this virtuous, unhappy, and resolute father determined not to yield from a motive of personal fear, but, by one desperate and incredible effort, to perform the horrid sacrifice which he had vowed to pay on the altar of justice; and, if he fell, to fall as became a man, and not be compelled to prefer the advantage of an individual to the injured rights of his country, and of human nature. It is probable he was prepared for this extremity; for, turning back, and still keeping hold of his son, he mounted by a winding stairs within the building, which led to an arched window that overlooked the street in which the populace was assembled : he there presented himself and his victim, about whose neck he had previously fastened the rope with which he had been bound, and, securing the other end in an iron projecting from the wall, ■ You have little time to live, my son," said he; "let the care of your soul employ these few moments — take the last embrace of your unhappy father:" — he embraced his unfortunate son, and launched him into eternity ! A few moments put an end to his existence. Expecting instant death from the fury of the rabble, this extraordinary man retained his station, satisfied with the silent approval of a good conscience, perfectly regardless of the applause or censure of the multitude, conscious of having fulfilled his duty to GoD, to man, and his country : but this act of greatness awed them; they stood motionless with amazement; a sentiment of admiration and sorrow united alone prevailed; and, when all was over, they slowly and peaceably retired — so wondrous is the influence of an exalted and daring mind, when actuated by the principles of virtue. — The innocent cause of this lamentable tragedy is said to have died of grief, and the father of her lover to have secluded himself from society for the remainder of his days, never having been seen again, except by his mourning family. His house still exists in Lombard-sheet, which is yet known by the name of " Dead-man's-lane;" and the execution is said to have taken place at a window in the rear of the house; though the vulgar ercor is, that he was suspended over the front window, which is distinguished by a handsome representation, carved in black marble, of a human skull, with two bones crossed beneath. It is dated 1624; and h supposed to have been put up by some of his family.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 69

As the companion tells it

Dead-man's-lane, on Lombard Street in Galway, is the site of a house where, in 1624, a magistrate named Lynch hanged his own son from an arched window. The son had been condemned, and the father had vowed the sentence would be carried out. The young man's mother, whose name was Blake, went in distraction to the heads of her own family and prevailed on them, for the honour of their house, to rescue him. They armed to deliver him from prison. Prodigious crowds gathered, crying out for mercy and threatening the magistrate with instant destruction if he did not comply. He exhorted them to preserve tranquility and suffer the law to take its course. The soldiers themselves were melted by the pitiable case and permitted the populace to approach the house. To pass through them was hopeless. Keeping hold of his son, Lynch mounted a winding stairs within the building to an arched window overlooking the street. He had already fastened the rope about his son's neck. Securing the other end to an iron projecting from the wall, he said, "You have little time to live, my son; let the care of your soul employ these few moments — take the last embrace of your unhappy father." He embraced him and launched him into eternity. The crowd stood motionless with amazement, then slowly and peaceably retired. The innocent cause of the tragedy is said to have died of grief, and Lynch secluded himself from society for the remainder of his days, never seen again except by his mourning family. The house still stands in Lombard Street, and a carving in black marble of a human skull with two bones crossed beneath, dated 1624, marks the event.

Mr. French of Tyrone encounters disguised governor in London

Tyrone · townland · Galway · 1660–1685

After the Restoration, a Mr. French from Tyrone near Galway accidentally met in London a former governor, now disguised as a peddler hawking tobacco. The governor had been connected to extraordinary revelations about the execution of Charles I, and vanished after the encounter.

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at the same time, holding up his right hand, "I tell thee Stephen, this hand knows the strength of Charles Stuart's neck." — Every reader acquainted with the history of England, is aware, that the names of the executioners of that unfortunate monarch have never been discovered. All that is known with certainty is, that two of them attended, disguised in masks, one with a grey and the other with a black beard, and that after the former severed the head, the other held it up, streaming with blood, and cried aloud, "this is the head of the traitor." — - Friendship or fear influenced Deane to keep secret the extraordinary revelation which he had heard, until after the restoration, but then he frequently mentioned the circumstance ; immediately upon that event the governor suddenly disappeared, and the place of his retreat remained unknown, until a Mr. French from Tyrone, near Galway, happening to be in London, accidentally met him in the street, disguised as a pedaller, hawking tobacco for sale. Struck at this sudden change in the fortunes of the man, who so recently before was in the full exercise of unlimited power, extending even "over life and death, but now reduced to the most abject state of misery ; Mr. French could not help expressing regret for his situation, particularly as the object of his compassion had, in general, exercised his power with humanity and moderation. The unfortunate governor, with tears in his eyes, desired to step into an adjacent shop, and promised, in a. few moments, to follow and explain the entire ; French accordingly complied, but after remaining a considerable time the other neglected to attend, and. as the story goes, was never afterwards heard of. — As to Deane he was enabled by the profits of the partnership, to purchase the considerable
estate of Balrobuck, near Tuam, which, until very lately, continued in the possession of his descendants.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, near Tyrone, lived a Mr. French whose path crossed one of the strangest stories from the Restoration years. The names of the men who executed Charles I have never been discovered. All that is known is that two attended in masks, one with a grey beard and one with a black beard. The first severed the head, the second held it up, streaming with blood, and cried aloud, "this is the head of the traitor." A man called Deane had heard extraordinary revelations from a governor connected to the execution. The governor had held up his right hand and said, "I tell thee Stephen, this hand knows the strength of Charles Stuart's neck." Friendship or fear kept Deane silent until after the Restoration. Then he spoke of it often, and the governor suddenly disappeared. His whereabouts remained unknown until Mr. French, happening to be in London, accidentally met him in the street, disguised as a peddler, hawking tobacco for sale. French was struck by the change. This was a man who had recently held power over life and death, now reduced to the most abject misery. French expressed regret, noting the governor had generally exercised his power with humanity and moderation. The governor, with tears in his eyes, asked to step into an adjacent shop and promised to follow in a few moments to explain everything. French waited a considerable time. The governor never came. As the story goes, he was never heard of again. Deane, for his part, profited from a partnership and purchased the estate of Balrobuck, near Tuam, which remained in his descendants' possession until very recently.

Dominican nuns dispersed again, convent turned into barracks, 1698

Galway · city · Galway · 1698–1701

In 1698 the Dominican nuns were again dispersed, their cries and tears moving even their persecutors to compassion. The convent was converted into a barrack. The nuns remained secretly in town among friends under prioress Julia Nolan, who died in 1701 aged ninety, and was succeeded by Maria Lynch. They were soon after forced to quit the town altogether.

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In 1698 they were again dispersed. It was most deplorable, says the historian of these melancholy scenes, to witness the cries and tears of these distressed females, by which even their very persecutors were moved to compassion. The convent was converted into a barrack, but the nuns remained secretly in town, amongst their friends, under the direction of their venerable prioress, Julia Nolan, who was released by death from all her sufferings, in 1701, at the age of ninety years, and was succeeded by the sub-prioress, Maria Lynch. They were soon after obliged to quit the town altogether, and seek refuge among their relations in the country, without the most distant hopes of being ever able to return. In this forlorn situation Hugh O'Callanan, the then provincial of the order, having obtained permission from doctor Edmond Byrne, titular archbishop of Dublin, to admit them into kis diocess, eight of the dispersed nuns repaired to the capital, where they arrived in March, 1717, and dwelt together in a house in Fisher' s-lane, on the north side of the river. In September following they removed to Channel-row, afterwards Brunswick-street, where they originated the convent of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, of Dublin. 38 In the
37 The foundation was afterwards confirmed by letters of the nuncio, Rinuncini, who enjoined the nuns to offer up, in perpetuum, certain devotions. " ut Oatholicorum exercitus, de hostibus victoria reportent, pestiferumquo virus Haereticorum ab hoc regno exterminetur." — This curious document may be seen at large in De Burgo's history of this order.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 224

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this city was the scene of a dispersal in 1698. The Dominican nuns were driven out again, and the historian says it was most deplorable to witness the cries and tears of these distressed females, by which even their very persecutors were moved to compassion. Their convent was converted into a barrack. The nuns stayed secretly in town among friends under their venerable prioress Julia Nolan, who was released by death from all her sufferings in 1701 at the age of 90. She was succeeded by sub-prioress Maria Lynch. They were soon forced to quit the town altogether and seek refuge among their relations in the country, without the most distant hopes of ever being able to return. In this forlorn situation Hugh O'Callanan, provincial of the order, obtained permission from Doctor Edmond Byrne, titular archbishop of Dublin, to admit them into his diocese. Eight of the dispersed nuns went to the capital, arriving in March 1717, and dwelt together in a house in Fisher's-lane on the north side of the river. In September they removed to Channel-row, afterwards Brunswick-street, where they originated the convent of Jesus, Mary and Joseph of Dublin.

O'Shaughnessie surrender and regrant of Gort-Inchigorie lands

Gort · townland · Galway · 1543–1606

In 1543, Sir Dermot O'Shaughnessie submitted to Henry VIII and surrendered his possessions, receiving back by letters patent the manors and lands of Gort-Inchigorie and other territories in Co. Galway. A 1570 arbitration award reassigned the lordship of Gort-Inchigorie, and by 1606 the O'Shaughnessies held the territory of Kinalea, alias O'Shaughnes' country.

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8. This noble Irish family, of the Heremonian line, (cujus nobilitatem, antiquitatem, et integritatem, qui non novit, Hiberniam non novit. — De Burgo.) was, from the earliest period, connected with the old natives of Galway. Sir Dermot, the seventh in descent from "Seachnusy," from whom the name was taken, having in 1543 submitted to Henry VII. and surrendered his possessions, that monarch, by letters patent, dated 3rd December the same year, reciting, that although he and his predecessors, kings of England, were the true possessors of those premisses, yet that Sir Dermot and his ancestors possessed them unjustly against the crown, until lately; being truly sensible thereof, he relinquished the same, accordingly granted to Sir Dermot, chief of his name, and his heir male, in capite, by the service
of a knight's fee, all the estate which he had in the manors, lordships, lands, etc., of Gort-Inchigorie, and several other lands ; with a provisoe, however, of forfeiture, in case of any confedracy or disturbance against the crown. — Rot. Pat. 35. Hen. VIII. — Sir Dermot had two sons, Sir Rory and Dermot : the former was married to the lady Onora ny Brien, and had two sons, William and Darby. After his death, his widow, his brother Dermot, and Wiliam his eldest son, having some disputes about the property, they were submitted to the arbitration of several members of the privy council of Ireland, who made their award on the 21st March, 1570 ; by which, amongst other possessions, the lordship of Gort-Inchigorie, etc. was assigned to Dermot, as chief of his name. — Rot. Pat. 13 Eliz. — Dermot, his son, died 8th July, 1606, seized of the territory of Kinalea, alias "O'Shaughnes' country," leaving, Roger, otherwise Gilleduffe, (then aged twenty-three years and married,) his heir, and Shyly Nyn Hubert his widow. Sir Dermot, the son of Roger, died in 1673, leaving by his wife, the daughter of lord Barry, Roger, who, in

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 177

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Gort, the O'Shaughnessies made a bargain with the English crown that changed the ground under their feet. In 1543, Sir Dermot O'Shaughnessy submitted to Henry the Eighth and surrendered his possessions. The king granted them back by letters patent, dated the 3rd of December that same year. The patent recited that although the king and his predecessors, kings of England, were the true possessors of those lands, Sir Dermot and his ancestors had possessed them unjustly against the crown until lately. Being truly sensible of this, Sir Dermot relinquished the same, and the king granted him, as chief of his name, and his heir male, all the estate he had in the manors, lordships, and lands of Gort-Inchigorie, and several other lands. There was a provision for forfeiture in case of any conspiracy or disturbance against the crown. Sir Dermot had two sons, Sir Rory and Dermot. Sir Rory married the Lady Onora ny Brien and had two sons, William and Darby. After Sir Rory's death, his widow, his brother Dermot, and William his eldest son had disputes about the property. They submitted the matter to the arbitration of several members of the privy council of Ireland, who made their award on the 21st of March, 1570. By that award, the lordship of Gort-Inchigorie was assigned to Dermot, as chief of his name. Dermot's son, also Dermot, died the 8th of July, 1606, seized of the territory of Kinalea, also called O'Shaughnes' country. He left Roger, otherwise Gilleduffe, then aged twenty-three years and married, as his heir, and Shyly Nyn Hubert his widow.

Clanteige chief claims ancient custom in Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1575

In 1575, Morchowe Mac Timligh Mac Donill, chief of the Clanteige sept of Aran, appeared before Galway's mayor and bailiffs claiming the ancient custom of Connowe and Meales for two days and two nights within the town. The corporation ruled the sept should receive only two meals, and bound themselves to defend the islands and castle of Aran against any who would besiege or spoil them.

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Mem. the 14th day of July, one Morchowe Mac Timligh Mac Donill, chief of his naoion, called Clanteige of Aron, appeared before the mayor, bailiffs and conibrethern, claiminge to have the ancient custom of Connowe and Meales due to him and to his ancestors within the town, to say, for two days and two nights, and the mayor, etc., calling before them auncient old credibel persons, they declared upon their oaths that they never heard of their parence, or saw the said sept have no more within this town but only two meales. It was thereupon ordered that said sept shall have no more but that two, they being always bound to serve, attend and wait upon us and in our service, as their auncestors hath bene ; also the said sept is bound to give the accustomed Meals and Cannowe to all the comen'c of Galway when they shall (repair to the isles of Aron : and the mayor, etc. did grant and promise to be aydors, helpers, mayntainers and assisters of said Clanteige against all persons that would lay seige, spoille or raise the said islands or castell of Aron, or otherwise wrong the said Morchowe sept.17
1579.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 170

As the companion tells it

In 1575, on the 14th of July, a man named Morchowe Mac Timligh Mac Donill came before the mayor and bailiffs of Galway. He was chief of his sept, the Clanteige of Aran, and he claimed an ancient custom known as Connowe and Meales, due to him and to his ancestors within the town, for two days and two nights. The mayor and bailiffs called before them ancient, credible persons, who declared upon their oaths that they had never heard of or seen the sept have any more than two meals within the town. It was ordered that the sept should have no more than those two. They were bound, as their ancestors had been, to serve, attend and wait upon the corporation. The sept was also bound to give the accustomed meals and cannowe to all the commonalty of Galway when they repaired to the isles of Aran. In return, the mayor and the rest granted and promised to be aidors, helpers, maintainers and assisters of the Clanteige against all persons who would lay siege, spoil or raise the islands or castle of Aran, or otherwise wrong the Morchowe sept.

Col. Stubbers seizes and transports Galway people as slaves

Galway · city · Galway

Col. Stubbers, military governor of Galway after its surrender, made nightly armed excursions into the country and seized upwards of a thousand people without discrimination, transporting them to the West Indies to be sold as slaves.

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With feelings of tha deepest emotion, the attention of the reader will now be turned towards the state of affairs within this devoted and unhappy though once prosperous and flourishing, town, whose inhabitants were the first in Ireland that took up arms in defence of their religion and king, and the last, either in Great Britain or Ireland, that laid them down. The surrender was followed by a famine throughout the country, by which multitudes perished. This was again succeeded by a plague, which carried off thousands both in the town and the surrounding districts; so that the severest vengeance of heaven seemed now to have been poured down on the heads of this devoted community. Many, driven to despair by the severities inflicted upon them, instead of avoiding the pestilence, sought refuge in death from their merciless persecutors. This dreadful visitation continued for two years, during which upwards of one-third of the population of the province was swept away, and those who survived were doomed to undergo sufferings to which even death itself was preferable. Col. Stubbers, who was appointed military governor of the town upon its surrender, under pretence of taking up vagrants and idle persons, made frequent nightly excursions, with armed troops, into the country, and seized upwards of a thousand people, often without discrimination of rank or condition, whom he transported to the West Indies, and there had sold as slaves. 20 But the town was the great scene of persecution. Immediately after the surrender, a contribution, amounting to four hundred pounds monthly, was imposed contrary to the articles, which terminated in the total ru'n of the inhabitants. This excessive charge was exacted with the utmost severity. An author who was then in the town relates, 21 that unless it was paid to the last farthing, at a certain hour, every Saturday, of which notice was given by beat of drum or sounding of trumpets, the soldiers rushed to the houses of the inhabitants, and, with their muskets pointed to the breasts of the inmates, threatened them with immediate death, unless paid whatever they thought proper to demand; and when, fsom the continual payments, the town s people were unable any longer to discharge it, such articles of household furniture as the soldiery could find, even to the clothes of the women, were seized, and sold in the marketplace for whatever they would bring; so that, according to this author, the return of Saturdav. being the period of payment and visitation, seemed to the inhabitants to realize the idea formed of the day of judgment, the sounding of the trumpets striking them with almost equal terror.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 109

As the companion tells it

The people of Galway were the first in Ireland to take up arms in defence of their religion and king, and the last in Great Britain or Ireland to lay them down. After the surrender, famine came through the country and multitudes perished. A plague followed, carrying off thousands in the town and the surrounding districts. It lasted two years, during which upwards of one-third of the population of the province was swept away. Many, driven to despair by the severities inflicted on them, sought refuge in death rather than face their persecutors. Colonel Stubbers was appointed military governor of Galway upon its surrender. Under pretence of taking up vagrants and idle persons, he made frequent nightly excursions with armed troops into the country and seized upwards of a thousand people, often without discrimination of rank or condition. He transported them to the West Indies and had them sold as slaves. But the town itself was the great scene of persecution. Immediately after the surrender, a contribution of four hundred pounds monthly was imposed, contrary to the articles. An author who was then in the town relates that unless it was paid to the last farthing at a certain hour every Saturday, announced by beat of drum or sounding of trumpets, the soldiers rushed to the houses of the inhabitants. With muskets pointed to the breasts of the inmates, they threatened immediate death unless paid whatever they thought proper to demand. When the townspeople could no longer pay, household furniture, even the clothes of the women, was seized and sold in the marketplace for whatever it would bring. The return of Saturday, the period of payment and visitation, seemed to the inhabitants to realize the idea of the day of judgment, the trumpets striking them with almost equal terror.

Freed Galway slave purchased Rahoon estate from Cromwell officer

near Rahoon · street · Galway

A young man named Joyes, a native of Galway, was captured by an Algerine corsair and enslaved in Algiers for fourteen years. After his release through William III's ambassador, he returned to Galway, married, followed the trade of goldsmith, and purchased the estate of Rahoon from Colonel Whaley, one of Cromwell's officers.

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Several individuals of this name have long felt grateful to the memory of William III. from the following circumstance, on the accession of that monarch to the throne of England. One of the first acts of his reign was to send an ambassador to Algiers, to demand the immediate release of all the British subjects detained there in slavery, the dey and council, intimidated, reluctnatly complied with this demand. Among those released, was a young man of the name of Joyes, a native of Galway, who, fourteen years before, was captured on his passage to the West Indies, by an Algerine Corsair; on his arrival at Algiers, he was purchased by a wealthy Turk who followed the profession of a goldsmith, and who observing his slave, Joyes, to be tractable and ingenious, instruteed him in his trade in which he speedily became an adept. Tire Moor, as soon as he heard of his release, offered him, in case he should remain, his only daughter in marriage, and with her, half his property, but all these, with other tempting and advantageous proposals. Joyes resolutely declined ; on his return to Galway he married, and followed the business of a goldsmith with considerable success, and, having acquired a handsome independance, he was enabled to purchase the estate of Rahoon, (which lies about two miles wset of the town,) from Colonel Whaley, or<* ^f Cromwell's o1^ omeers=
C

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 21

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Rahoon lies an estate with a remarkable story behind it. A young Galway man named Joyes was captured by an Algerine corsair on his passage to the West Indies and spent 14 years as a slave in Algiers. His owner, a wealthy Turk who worked as a goldsmith, saw that Joyes was tractable and ingenious, and taught him the trade. When William III came to the throne, he sent an ambassador to Algiers demanding the release of all British subjects held in slavery, and the dey reluctantly complied. Joyes's master then offered him his only daughter in marriage and half his property if he would stay, but Joyes resolutely declined. He returned to Galway, married, followed the goldsmith's trade with considerable success, and having acquired what the record calls a handsome independence, he purchased the estate of Rahoon from Colonel Whaley, one of Cromwell's officers.

Papal nuncio Rinuccini seeks refuge in Galway amid factional turmoil

Galway · city · Galway · 1648

After his excommunications fell into discredit, the Pope's nuncio Rinuccini sought refuge in Galway, where his presence stimulated supporters to acts of violence and commotion. The populace forced their way into the mayor's house and wrested the ensigns of authority from his hands, resulting in the deaths of two or three men.

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The assembly at Kilkenny having found it necessary to conclude a cessation of arms with lord Inchiquin, president of Munster, Rinuncini, the Pope's nuncio, immediately published a declaration against it. From this the assembly appealed, and was supported by a great body of the clergy of the kingdom, together with the army under the command of the marquis of Clanricarde, lord Taaffe and general Preston. In vain the nuncio fulrninated his excommunications; his measures and party fell into discredit In this dilemma he sought refuge in Galway, where he had some abettors, particularly the warden and others, whom his presence and exhortations stimulated to open acts of violence and commotion. The mayor was desirous to proclaim the cessation, but was prevented by the populace, who forced their way into his house, and wrested the ensigns of authority from his hands; but this insolence occasioned such a tumult, that, had they not been immediately restored by the very hand that took them, the conseauences would have been lamentable; and, even as it was, two or three men were killed. The carmelite friars, shewing some resistance against this proud ecclesiastic, their dwelling was assaulted by night, and their persons abused. In a fit of rage he ordered the bell to be pulled down, and placed two priests at the entry to their chapel, to keep the people from lesorting there to prayers. Those who favoured the cessation were declared under censure; the churches were closed, and all divine offices interdicted. In this state v/as the town, when the archbiyhop of Tuam, who declared against these measures, arrived. Having desired to see the nuncio's power for assuming such authority, he refused t o produce it, whereupon the prelate told him to his face that he would not obey: "Ego," answered the nuncio, "non ostendam:" "et Ego," replied the archbishop, "non obediam;" and he immediately after caused the church doors to be opened by force. The nuncio, finding himself thus opposed, summoned a synod to meet in Galway on the 15th of August: but the council forbidding the clergy to attend, and ordering all civil and military officers to stop their passage, they were unable to meet. Lord Clanricarde having been, in the m^an time, reinforced by Inchiquin, laid siege to the town on the 14th of August, and, hindering all access of provisions by land or water, the promoters of these violent proceedings, unprepared for a siege, were

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 102

As the companion tells it

In 1648 the assembly at Kilkenny concluded a cessation of arms with Lord Inchiquin, president of Munster. Rinuccini, the Pope's nuncio, published a declaration against it. The assembly appealed from his declaration, supported by a great body of the clergy and by the army under the marquis of Clanricarde, Lord Taaffe and General Preston. His excommunications fell into discredit, and in that dilemma he sought refuge in Galway. There he had abettors, particularly the warden and others, whom his presence and exhortations stirred to open violence and commotion. The mayor was desirous to proclaim the cessation, but the populace prevented him. They forced their way into his house and wrested the ensigns of authority from his hands. Had they not been restored by the very hand that took them, the consequences would have been lamentable. Even as it was, two or three men were killed. The Carmelite friars showed some resistance against him. Their dwelling was assaulted by night and their persons abused. He ordered the bell pulled down and placed two priests at the chapel entry to keep people from resorting there to prayers. Those who favoured the cessation were declared under censure, the churches closed, and all divine offices interdicted. The archbishop of Tuam arrived and declared against these measures. He asked to see the nuncio's authority. The nuncio refused, saying, "Ego non ostendam." The archbishop replied, "et Ego non obediam," and caused the church doors to be opened by force. The nuncio summoned a synod to meet in Galway on the 15th of August, but the council forbade the clergy to attend and ordered all officers to stop their passage, so they could not meet. Lord Clanricarde, reinforced by Inchiquin, laid siege to the town on the 14th of August, hindering all access of provisions by land or water.

Spanish Armada wrecks and executions in Galway

near Galway Bay · bay · Clare · 1588–1589

In 1588, a ship from the Spanish Armada was wrecked in the Bay of Galway, with over seventy crew perishing. Survivors along the coast were executed by order of the lord deputy, who arrived in Galway in June 1589 to enforce his orders and seize rumoured Spanish treasures.

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The year 1588 was rendered memorable for the destruction of the celebrated Spanish Armada. One of the ships which composed this ill-fated fleet was wrecked in the bay of Galway and upwards of seventy of the crew perished. Several other vessels were lost along the coast; and such of the Spaniards as escaped the waves, were cruelly butchered by order of the lord deputy, Sir William Fitz-Williams, who, finding, or pretending to find, fault with the alleged lenity of Sir Richard Bingham, the president of the province, commissioned Robert Fowle, deputy marshal, who dislodged these unfortunate men from their hiding-places, and in a summary manner executed about two hundred of them, which so terrified the remainder, that, though sick and half-famished, they chose sooner to trust to their shattered barks, and the mercy of the waves, than to their more merciless enemies, in consequence of which multitudes of them perished. In order the more effectually to satiate his thirst for their blood, and to seize their rumoured treasures, the lord deputy himself made a journey into Connaught, where this sanguinary man arrived in June, 1589, and on the 20th of that month he came to Galway. Sir Murrough O'Flaherty, William Burke, the blind Abbot, and several others of the principal inhabitants of Mayo and lar- Connaught, came in and submitted; but were put under conditions to give hostages, disperse their forces, deliver up all the Spaniards and Portuguese

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 82

As the companion tells it

Galway Bay holds a grim chapter from 1588. One of the ships of the Spanish Armada was wrecked here, and upwards of 70 of the crew perished. Several other vessels were lost along the coast. Such of the Spaniards as escaped the waves were cruelly butchered by order of the lord deputy, Sir William Fitz-Williams. He found, or pretended to find, fault with the alleged lenity of Sir Richard Bingham, president of the province, and commissioned Robert Fowle, deputy marshal, who dislodged these unfortunate men from their hiding-places and in a summary manner executed about 200 of them. This so terrified the remainder that, though sick and half-famished, they chose sooner to trust to their shattered barks and the mercy of the waves than to their more merciless enemies, and multitudes perished. The lord deputy himself made a journey into Connaught to seize their rumoured treasures, arriving in Galway on the 20th of June 1589. Sir Murrough O'Flaherty, William Burke, the blind Abbot, and several other principal inhabitants of Mayo and Iar-Connacht came in and submitted, but were put under conditions to give hostages, disperse their forces, and deliver up all the Spaniards and Portuguese.

Bodkin family tradition in Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1300

The Bodkins of Galway were descended from Maurice FitzGerald, one of the first invaders of Ireland. According to tradition, their family name originated from a single combat victory around 1300 by Thomas Fitz Richard using a short spear called a Baudefyn.

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The Bodkins of Galway, and the Earls of Desmond and Kildare, were descended from the same common ancestor, Maurice FitzGerald, Lord of Windsor, and one of the first invaders of Ireland, under Strongbow. His son, Thomas FitzMaurice, acquired ample possessions in Munster, where his descendants became Earls of Desmond. Richard, the son of Thomas, about the year 1.242, held considerable properties' in Connaught, under Richard de Burgo, and Thomas, his son, was the ancestor of the Bodkin family. This family name originated, according to tradition, from a victory gained by their great progenitor, Thomas Fitz Richard (about the year 1300,) over a valiant Irish knight, whom he encountered in single combat, and having, in the conflict, made use of a short spear or weapon, in Irish called, a Baudefyn, he was, from that circumstance, surnamed, Buaidh Baude\in, of the victory of the Bodkin, which name was afterwards retained by his descendants. Whatever doubt may attend this traditionary relation, none can exist as to the origin and descent of the family, which are fully ascertained by the testimony of antiquaries, by ancient stone sculptures and monuments, still remaining, and from the genealogies of the Geraldines, whose arms the Bodkin family bore for many generations, and whose motto, Crom aboo, they retain to this day. 24 Henry Bodkin, the son of Thomas, was Clericus ville in the reign of Richard II. at which time, there was a
23 Finglas Breviate. — Tlie following entry of his appointment has been lately found: — Mem. that on the 21st October, 31 Edw. .1. Richard Blake was appointed Sheriff of Connaught. by letters patent of this exchequer, which the treasurer and barons delivered to Richard de Bermingham, late sheriff of the said County, to be brought1 to- Connaught, and delivered

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this city holds the origin story of the Bodkin family. They were descended from Maurice FitzGerald, Lord of Windsor, one of the first invaders of Ireland under Strongbow. His son Thomas FitzMaurice acquired possessions in Munster, and Richard, son of Thomas, held considerable properties in Connaught under Richard de Burgo. Thomas, son of Richard, was the ancestor of the Bodkins. The family name began, according to tradition, from a victory won by their great progenitor Thomas Fitz Richard, about the year 1300, over a valiant Irish knight in single combat. Having used a short spear or weapon called in Irish a Baudefyn, he was surnamed "of the victory of the Bodkin," and his descendants kept the name. The family's origin and descent are confirmed by antiquaries, ancient stone sculptures and monuments, and the genealogies of the Geraldines, whose arms the Bodkins bore for generations and whose motto, "Crom aboo," they retained. Henry Bodkin, son of Thomas, was Clericus ville in the reign of Richard II.

Galway by-laws on poor widows, beggars and ale-houses

Galway · city · Galway · 1628

In 1628, Galway corporation ordered annual distribution of £10 to poor widows of the town's birth and blood, banished sturdy beggars and poor scholars, and required licensed beggars to wear leaden tokens on their caps. Constables were ordered to present names of keepers of blind ale-houses each quarter session.

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Enacted, that stuirdie beggars and poor scholars be banished ; and that such poor and needie men, born in the towne, as shall be allowed to begge, shall have Ieden tokens fastened to their caps, to distinguish them from others. And for as much as divers strangers, and some of the towne, doe keep blind ale-houses, which are the relievers of idlers and malefactors, who, by cheating, cozening, villainies, doe disturbe the quiet and peace of the towne, it is ordered, that the several constables of the several quarters and franchises doe, eveirie quarter session, present the names of such, and of all other persons selling beer, ale, etc. that a certain number of select men may be named and licensed to doe the same.
1. "Until this year, the mayor was elected solely by the aldermen and sheriffs, (the former having either been mayors, or such as were eligible to be so,) and no Catholics Vere admitted for many years, they invariably refusing to take the oath of supremacy. Thus circumstanced, it was with difficulty persons could be found to fill the office. In order to remedy this inconvenience, the corporation at length resolved, that every freeman should have a vote at the election ; in consequence of

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 175

As the companion tells it

In 1628, Galway's corporation made new by-laws to govern the poor and the ale-houses of the town. They ordered an annual distribution of £10 to poor widows of the town's birth and blood. Sturdy beggars and poor scholars were to be banished. Poor men born in the town who were allowed to beg had to wear leaden tokens fastened to their caps, to distinguish them from others. The corporation found that diverse strangers and some of the town kept blind ale-houses, which they called the relievers of idlers and malefactors, who by cheating, cozening, and villainies disturbed the quiet and peace of the town. Constables of each quarter and franchise were ordered to present the names of such keepers, and of all others selling beer or ale, every quarter session, so that a certain number of select men might be named and licensed to sell. That same year the corporation changed how the mayor was elected. Until then the mayor was chosen solely by the aldermen and sheriffs, and no Catholics were admitted for many years, they invariably refusing to take the oath of supremacy. With difficulty persons could be found to fill the office. The corporation resolved that every freeman should have a vote at the election.

Galway churches and abbeys desecrated by soldiery

Galway · city · Galway

Churches and abbeys in Galway were converted into stables for dragoons, sacred chalices used as drinking cups, and clergy libraries burnt or sold to shops. The Annals also record soldiers breaking open tombs and leaving corpses mangled by dogs.

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to the islands of Arran and Bophin, until they could be transported to the West Indies; and, being allowed but two pence a day each for their support, they were nearly famished. The churches and abbies were converted into stables for the dragoons, the chalices and sacred vessels used as drinking cups, and the old and valuable libraries of the clergy burnt or sold to the shops. The mayor and aldermen, though expressly protected by the articles, were repeatedly abused and dragged to prison, for daring to remonstrate with the licentious soldiery, who set no bounds to their brutality and violence. 22
The inhabitants having repeatedly, but in vain, appealed to the governor against these atrocities, at length ventured to represent their grievances to the commissioners in Dublin :23 they received, however, such replies as shewed they were to expect no relief from that quarter. After several specious and evasive answers, to preserve the appearance of justice, orders of reference were made to the very persons complained of : they were finally informed that the articles of surrender, being still under consideration in England, could not be interfered with; and they were thus dismissed, to undergo even worse treatment than before for at all presuming to complain.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 110

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this is a city whose churches and abbeys were once turned into stables for dragoons. The soldiers used the sacred chalices as drinking cups, and the clergy's old and valuable libraries were burnt or sold to shops. The mayor and aldermen, though expressly protected by the articles of surrender, were repeatedly abused and dragged to prison for daring to remonstrate with the licentious soldiery, who set no bounds to their brutality. The inhabitants appealed again and again to the governor, but in vain, so they ventured to lay their grievances before the commissioners in Dublin. They got specious and evasive answers. Orders of reference were made to the very persons they had complained of. They were finally told that the articles of surrender, being still under consideration in England, could not be interfered with, and they were dismissed, to undergo even worse treatment than before for presuming to complain.

Galway siege and capitulation to Sir Charles Coote

Galway · city · Galway · 1652

After a nine-month siege, the inhabitants of Galway were forced by a great dearth of provisions and the threat of famine to submit to a treaty of capitulation with Sir Charles Coote in April 1652. The town and its fortifications were delivered up to the parliamentary forces.

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Thus circumstanced, the inhabitants unanimously resolved to sell their lives as dearly as they could. Every preparation, both offensive and defensive, was vigorously made; the fortifications were refitted; communication with the country was renewed, and succours contracted for. which would have enabled them to protract the war, and even render its issue in some degree doubtful. These preparations, though they excited the alarm and raised the fears of the enemy, had, however, no other effect than that of rendering them more inclinable to terms of accommodation. The great dearth of provisions, which now threatened the besieged with all the horrors of approaching famine, at length obliged them to submit to a treaty of capitulation with Coote. Commissioners on both sides were appointed; and the conditions originally offered to Limerick, by Ireton. were now made the basis of the articles, which were finally agreed upon, and signed on the 5th of April, 1652. By these articles, the town, forts, fortifications, &c. were to be delivered up to Sir Charles Coote for the parliament on the 12th instant; all persons within the town were to have quarter for their lives, liberties and persons, and six months time to depart with their goods to any part of the nation, or beyond seas. The same time was allowed the clergy to quit the kingdom; and all those comprized in the second article were to have an indemnity for past offences, except Dominick Kirwan and others who were concerned in the attack on captain Clarke's ship on the 19th of March, 1641. The inhabitants were to enjoy their estates to them and their heirs for ever, in all houses, castles, lands, &c. within the town and the old and new liberties, with liberty to let and set same, but, in case of sale, to pay a third part of the price to the state of England. They were to be charged with no contribution but in proportion with other cities and towns, and were to enjoy two parts of their real properties in all places within the state's dominion, but subject to regulations for remuneration when contiguous to castles, fortifications or streights. Upon surrender of the town, they were to enter into, and enjoy all their real estates, until persons should be appointed by the parliament to dispose of one-third thereof for its use; and the composition of five thousand pounds, insisted upon for the third part of their goods and chattels, was referred to commissioners for remittal or mitigation. The corporation charter and privileges were guaranteed, and liberty to trade provided for. All prisoners, natives or inhabitants of Galway, or the islands of Arran, were to be liberated without ransom; and all ship goods or merchandize, taken by land or sea, going to, or coming from the town, were to be restored. A breach of the articles was to be deemed only the act of the person com-

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 107

As the companion tells it

Galway, in 1652, was a city under siege. For nine months the inhabitants held out, and when the end seemed near they resolved to sell their lives as dearly as they could. They refitted the fortifications, renewed communication with the country, and contracted for succours that might have protracted the war and even rendered its outcome doubtful. These preparations alarmed the enemy, but only made them more willing to negotiate terms. The great dearth of provisions, however, threatened the besieged with all the horrors of approaching famine, and at length obliged them to submit to a treaty of capitulation with Sir Charles Coote. Commissioners were appointed on both sides. The conditions originally offered to Limerick by Ireton became the basis of the articles, which were signed on the 5th of April, 1652. By these articles, the town, forts, and fortifications were to be delivered up to Sir Charles Coote for the parliament on the 12th. All persons within the town were to have quarter for their lives, liberties, and persons, and six months to depart with their goods to any part of the nation or beyond the seas. The same time was allowed the clergy to quit the kingdom. All those covered by the second article were to have indemnity for past offences, except Dominick Kirwan and others concerned in the attack on Captain Clarke's ship on the 19th of March, 1641. The inhabitants were to enjoy their estates, houses, castles, and lands within the town and the old and new liberties, to them and their heirs forever. In case of sale, a third of the price was to go to the state of England. The corporation charter and privileges were guaranteed, and liberty to trade provided for. All prisoners, natives or inhabitants of Galway or the islands of Arran, were to be liberated without ransom. All ship goods or merchandise taken by land or sea, going to or coming from the town, were to be restored.

Great snow of 1745 devastates livestock and farmland

Galway · city · Galway · 1745

A great fall of snow in 1745 destroyed vast numbers of sheep and black cattle, causing farmers to surrender their holdings. The best lands in the province were set for 6s. an acre, and John French of Galway imported over £3000 worth of corn to relieve the country.

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1 The year 1745 was remarkable for a great fall of snow, by which vast numbers of sheep and black-cattle were destroyed. The farmers surrendered their
holdings, and the best lands in the province were set for os. an acre. Many, who took long leases at this period, were enriched in the space of a few years, wheat having soon after risen from 6s._ to 18s. a cwt. John French, merchant, imported upwards of 30001. worth of corn this year, which greatly relieved the country.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 185

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this city was struck by the great snow of 1745. Sheep and black cattle perished in vast numbers, and farmers surrendered their holdings. The best lands in the province were set for 6s. an acre. Wheat soon rose from 6s. to 18s. a cwt. The merchant John French imported upwards of £3000 worth of corn, greatly relieving the country.

Mayor of Galway condemns his own son to death

Galway · city · Galway

In a small western Irish town of barely three thousand inhabitants, the mayor of Galway sat in judgment on his own son Walter, convicted of murdering a Spaniard named Gomez. The populace surrounded the prison, grew tumultuous, and were prevented only by military force from attacking the prison and pulling down the magistrate's house.

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and the mournful procession moved back to the town, penetrating, with difficulty, the immense crowds of people, who, by this time, curiosity had brought out. A more extraordinary scene has seldom been witnessed : surprise, compassion and horror were discernible in the countenances of all. While some expressed admiration and pity for their upright magistrate, many of the lower classes, feeling commiseration for the fate of their favorite youth, filled the air with lamentations and sighs. The uproar alone would have told the sad intelligence to the merchant's family : but they were doomed to a still greater shock than what general rumour could give; for the strong prison of the town lay immediately next to their own house, and the mother and sister of the wretched Walter were spectators of his approach, bare-headed, pale, bound, and surrounded with spears. Their outcries and faintings added to this most terrific trial of the father's fortitude : but such moments are really the test of virtue; the ordinary adversities of life are insufficient to shew it in its genuine lustre, or prove how potent, how beautiful it is, or, indeed, to convince us, that there exists no force by which true virtue can be subdued- If words are inadequate to describe the great and sudden wretchedness which overspread this, till now happy and honorable, family, they are still less so to picture the despair of the tender and unfortunate Agnes. To return, however : Within the short compass of a few days, a small town in the west of Ireland, with a population, at the time, of little more than three thousand persons, beheld a sight of which but one or two similar examples occur in the entire history of mankind — a father sitting in judgment, like another Lucius Junius Brutu on his only son, and, like him, too, condemning that son to die, as a sacrific to public justice. The legal inquiry which followed was short; and, on his own confession, strengthened by corresponding circumstances, the young man was fully convicted of the murder, and, in public, received sentence of death from the mouth of his afflicted father, by whom he was remanded back to prison. If the Almighty looks down with pleasure on the virtues of mankind, here was an action worthy of approbation — a father consigning his son to an ignominious death, and tearing away all the bonds of paternal affection, when the laws of nature were violated, and justice demanded the blow. No sooner was his sentence known to the populace, than they surrounded the place of the criminal's confinement : at first they were content with expressing their dissatisfaction by murmurs of regret and expostulations with the guards; but, by degrees, they became tumultuous, and were prevented only by the military force from attacking the prison, and puling down the magistrate's house; and their disorders were increased by understanding that the prisoner was now desirous of being rescued; which in some measure was true, for, as his madness subsided, his love returned. The thought of for ever parting from the object of his affections was intolerable, and he began to see of what value the gift of existence was, of which his remorseless hand had deprived an uonffending stranger. By strenuous exertions the people were, for the present, dispersed, and hints were oftn conveyed to them, that mercy would be extended to the prisoner. On his conviction, the mayor was waited upon by persons of

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 67

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town that once held about 3,000 people, and in its history witnessed something rare in all the record of mankind. A father who was mayor sat in judgment on his own son, and condemned that son to die. The young man's name was Walter. On his own confession, strengthened by circumstances, he was convicted of murder. In public, he received sentence of death from the mouth of his afflicted father, who remanded him back to prison. The strong prison of the town lay immediately next to the family's own house. His mother and his sister Agnes were spectators of his approach, bare-headed, pale, bound, and surrounded with spears. Their outcries and faintings added to what the record calls the most terrific trial of the father's fortitude. No sooner was the sentence known than the populace surrounded the place of confinement. At first they murmured and expostulated with the guards, but by degrees they became tumultuous. They were prevented only by military force from attacking the prison and pulling down the magistrate's house. Their disorders increased when they understood the prisoner was now desirous of being rescued, which was in some measure true. As his madness subsided, his love returned. The thought of forever parting from the object of his affections was intolerable, and he began to see the value of the gift of existence, of which his remorseless hand had deprived an unoffending stranger. By strenuous exertions the people were dispersed, and hints were conveyed that mercy would be extended to the prisoner.

Military raid all convents in Galway (1698)

Galway · city · Galway · 1698

On 1 May 1698, during a period of persecution, all convents in Galway were broken into by the military. Chapels were torn down, religious emblems destroyed, and nuns were forced from their habits and compelled to take refuge among friends in the country.

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During the persecution of 1698, all the convents in the town were, on the 1st of May, broken into by the military: the chapels were torn down, and every religious emblem was destroyed : the nuns were at the same time forced out, obliged to change their habits, and take refuge among their friends in the country; but when the heat of the persecution was over they re-assembled and returned to their former dwellings. Here they remained unmolested until the beginning of April, 1712, when Edward Eyre, the mayor, was directed "to suppress the nunneries. "35 The nuns were accordingly again turned out of the town, and were a second time obliged to have recourse to their friends. In this distressing situation doctor John Burke, the then provincial of the order of St. Francis in Ireland, obtained permission from doctor Edmund Byrne, titular archbishop of Dublin, to admit them into his diocess, hoping they would be less noticed there than in a place upon which the government kept so strict an eye as Galway. A few of these unhappy ladies were accordingly translated to Dublin; but they had scarcely reached that city when the lords justices received information of their arrival, and immediately issued orders for their apprehension, in consequence of which several of them were taken in the habit* of their order. A proclamation then issued, dated the 20th of September, 1712, "to apprehend the said John Burke, doctor Byrne and doctor Nary, popish priests, who presumed to exercise ecclesiastical jurisdiction, contrary to the lav/s of the kingdom"; and it was ordered "that all the laws in force against the papists should be strictly carried into execution." — Such were the fears and alarm caused by the arrival of a few weak women in

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 223

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this city holds a story from the dark years after the Williamite wars. On the 1st of May 1698, during a time of persecution, the military broke into every convent in the town. They tore down the chapels and destroyed every religious emblem. The nuns were forced out, made to change their habits, and had to take refuge among friends in the country. When the heat of the persecution passed, they came back to their former dwellings and remained unmolested for some years. But in early April 1712, Edward Eyre, the mayor, was directed to suppress the nunneries, and the nuns were turned out of the town a second time. Doctor John Burke, the provincial of the Order of St. Francis in Ireland, obtained permission from Doctor Edmund Byrne, titular archbishop of Dublin, to admit them into his diocese, hoping they would be less noticed there than in Galway, where the government kept so strict an eye. A few of these women were brought to Dublin, but the lords justices were informed of their arrival and issued orders for their apprehension. Several were taken while still wearing the habit of their order. A proclamation followed, dated the 20th of September 1712, to apprehend Burke, Byrne, and a Doctor Nary, popish priests who had presumed to exercise ecclesiastical jurisdiction, and it was ordered that all laws against the papists be strictly enforced.

Murder of Gomez on Galway shore

Galway · city · Galway

A young man named Walter, son of Galway's mayor, pursued a Spanish visitor named Gomez to the shore of Galway and stabbed him to death in a fit of jealous rage, plunging the body into the sea. The tide later washed the body back onto the beach where it was found and recognized. Walter fled to a nearby wood but surrendered himself the next morning when confronted by his father and officers of justice.

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strengthen has determination and facilitate his purpose. The following night as he passed slowly and alone Toy the residence of the fair one, he perceived a man come from the house, and knew him to be Gomez, who had indeed passed the evening there, being invited by the father of Agnes, who spoke the language of Spain with fluency, and courted the society of all who could converse with him. Urged by his rage, the lover pursued his imagined rival, who, being alarmed by a voice which he did not recognize, fled before him. From ignorance of the streets, he directed his steps towards a solitary quarter of the town, close to the shore; but, before he had quite reached the water s edge, his mad and cruel pursuer overtook him, darted a poinard into his heart, and plunged him, bleeding, into the sea. — In the night the tide threw the body of this innocent victim of insanity back upon the beach, where it was found, and soon recognized. The rash and wretched murderer (from himself the particulars were obtained) had scarcely committed the sanguinary deed than he repented it; but fear, or rather that feeling which teaches us to preserve life, even when we no longer love it, caused him to hasten from the scene of his crime, and endeavour to hide himself in the recesses of a wood, at some distance : here he could hide, but alas ! not from himself; the shades of the ni?;ht and the darkness of the forest were unto him as the noon of day. In agonies of despair, he cried aloud, and rolled himself upon the earth; and, when the first streaks of light appeared in the sky, he rose with a settled resolution of expiating his guilt, as far as he could, by surrendering himself to the law, and with that intention was returning to town, when he perceived a crowd of persons approaching, amongst whom, with shame and terror, he beheld his father on horseback, attended by several officers of justice and a military guard. On finding the body of the Spaniard, it was evident that he was killed by a dagger which was found near him, his own being unsheated by his side, and suspision had also arisen that the assassin must have retreated towards the wood, as a white hat, ornamented with feathers, had been found, by some fishermen, floating near the shore, as if blown from the road leading in that direction; while the velvet bonnet, which the person slain had worn, lay beside the body. Had the unhappy criminal wished to conceal the fact, his disturbed appearance alone would have betrayed him; but with perfect consistency, though in broken accents, he proclaimed himself the murderer, declared his contrition and remorse for the enormity to which frenzy had impelled him, and, imploring pardon of Heaven, desired to be conducted to prison. His disconsolate parent, oppressed by a weight of amazement and affliction, could scarcely preserve his equanimity, though a man of almost unexampled firmness : he foresaw the dreadful consequences of complying with his frantic son's demand, and that, should he shrink from his duty, public disgrace awaited himself. As mayor, he had the power of life and death, and he remembered that already in the case of another, he had used the authority given him with rigid severity. But, though he perceived that calamity must now overwhelm him and his race, he sacrificed all personal considerations to his love of justice, and ordered the guard to secure their prisoner. The command was reluctantly obeyed;

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 66

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are near the shore where a young man named Walter killed a Spaniard called Gomez. Agnes's father, who spoke Spanish fluently, had invited Gomez to spend the evening at his house. Walter, in a jealous rage, pursued Gomez through the dark streets toward the shore, overtook him before he reached the water's edge, drove a dagger into his heart, and plunged him into the sea. The tide threw the body back upon the beach that night, where it was found and recognized. Walter fled to a wood but could not endure his own remorse. At first light he set out to surrender himself to the law. On the road back into town he met a crowd, and among them, to his shame and terror, he saw his own father on horseback, attended by officers of justice and a military guard. A dagger had been found near the body, and a white hat ornamented with feathers had been found floating near the shore. Walter, in broken accents, proclaimed himself the murderer and asked to be taken to prison. His father, who was mayor of Galway and held the power of life and death, foresaw the calamity that would overwhelm his family. Yet he sacrificed all personal considerations to his love of justice and ordered the guard to secure the prisoner. The command was reluctantly obeyed.

Plague devastates Galway, killing over 3,700 inhabitants

Galway · city · Galway · 1649–1650

A plague appeared in Galway in July 1649 and raged with unabated virulence until the end of April 1650, killing upwards of 3,700 inhabitants including 210 burgesses and freemen. Survivors fled to the country and formed a committee of health that eventually eradicated the infection.

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now become prevalent and familiar. 14 The population of the town had glso increased considerably, several persons from the country flocking in with their families and property for protection; and in this crowded state was the place when the plague made its appearance, in the month of July, 1649, and continued to rage with unabated virulence until the end of April following, during which time it swept away upwards of three thousand seven hundred of the inhabitants, including two hundred and ten of the most respectable burgesses and freemen with their families. Those who survived or escaped the contagion gradualy left the town, as the only means of preservation, until it was almost entirely deserted of its inhabitants. They assembled in the country; and, having made a collection of two thousand marks to pay physicians and provide necessaries for the sick, they formed a commitee of health, whose judicious measures and assiduity finally succeeded in eradicating the infection. An entry of this memorable visitar tion, made in the corporation book in the year 1650, concludes with these words : "It is to be ever remembered how our Saviour, out of the abundance of his mercy, hath, about our Lady's day in lent last, freed and cleared this town and aH the inhabitants thereof from the said sickness, so as they have returned to their own dwellings, and ever sine® do inhabit them with as much security as ever before."

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 104

As the companion tells it

As you come through Galway, this is a city that lost more than 3,700 of its people to plague. Before the sickness came, the town was crowded. People had been flocking in from the country with their families and property for protection, and the population had grown considerably. It was in this crowded state that the plague appeared in July 1649 and raged with unabated virulence until the end of April 1650. It swept away upwards of 3,700 inhabitants, including 210 of the most respectable burgesses and freemen with their families. Those who survived gradually left the town as the only means of preservation, until it was almost entirely deserted. They assembled in the country and made a collection of 2,000 marks to pay physicians and provide necessaries for the sick. They formed a committee of health, whose measures finally succeeded in eradicating the infection. An entry in the corporation book in 1650 concludes with these words: "It is to be ever remembered how our Saviour, out of the abundance of his mercy, hath, about our Lady's day in lent last, freed and cleared this town and all the inhabitants thereof from the said sickness, so as they have returned to their own dwellings, and ever since do inhabit them with as much security as ever before."

Sheriffs search Galway friary and report to Lords (1731)

Galway · city · Galway · 1731

In 1731 the town sheriffs searched the Franciscan friary in Galway and reported to the House of Lords finding a large chapel with an altar adorned with pictures, fifteen chambers and nine beds, though no friars were discovered. The mayor noted the old friary chapel had been enlarged and repaired around 1723 or 1724.

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1 73 1 . The town sheriffs searched the friary, and the mayor, in his return to the house of lords, stated that in it "there is a large chapel, with an altar, laid out and adorned with pictures; in which said reputed friary there are fifteen chambers and nine beds, wherein they (the sheriffs) supposed the friars belonging to the said friary usually lay; but could not find or discover any of them. It is an old friary; but the chapel enlarged and repaired about the year 1723 or 1724."
1 779. June, the tomb of the founder, Sir William de Burgh, was discovered, upwards of four feet under ground, with his family arms and a long broad sword elegantly carved thereon. The following inscription appears in raised letters round the margin : — "Memoriae G°. Illmo0. Dno. Gull Oe Burgo suae nationis Principi et hujus monasterii Fundatori qui obiit 1324 —

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 218

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this is where the town sheriffs searched the Franciscan friary in 1731 and reported to the House of Lords what they found. The mayor's return described a large chapel with an altar laid out and adorned with pictures, along with fifteen chambers and nine beds. The sheriffs supposed the friars usually slept there, but could not find or discover any of them. It was an old friary, but the chapel had been enlarged and repaired about 1723 or 1724.

Claddagh herring fishery fleet and admiral system

Claddagh · electoral division · Galway

When the herring shoal arrived, the mayor or admiral of the Claddagh dispatched reconnoitring boats to prevent poachers. On the appointed day, about 500 boats from around the bay rendezvoused at the quay and sailed out together in regular order, a spectacle described as one of the most gratifying sights imaginable.

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many places luminous by night. There are several other unerring prognostics, well known to the fishermen, which proclaim the approach of this fishery. Immediately on its being ascertained, the mayor or admiral of the Claddagh dispatches reconnoitring boats to prevent poachers or stragglers, with full powers to take and destroy their nets and boats if found fishing (or, according to their own phraseology, trespassing), until all shall have an equal chance by a general fishing. For one or two days previous to this the entire Claddagh is in commotion, making preparations for the excursion. On the appointed day all the boats round the bay (which generally muster about 500 large and small) rendezvous at the quay, and, upon a signal given, all sail out at once in regular order. The beauty of this sight is inconceivable, and when viewed from one of the heights about the town, is perhaps one of the most gratifying that can be well imagined. When they arrive at the "fishing grounds" another signal is given by the "admiral" ; the nets are instantly set. and every boat is then left at liberty to make the best use of its time. When the great shoal of herrings arrives, it is observed that, in order to spawn, they separate into several smaller sculls, which fill all the creeks and harbours ; here they are followed by the fishermen and taken. On the rturn home of the Claddagh boats, the women, as before, exclusively possess themselves of the produce of their labour.
Manners and Customs, etc.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 237

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Claddagh, the old fishing quarter by Galway. When the herring shoal was coming in, the mayor, called the admiral of the Claddagh, sent out reconnoitring boats to stop poachers, with power to take and destroy their nets and boats so that everyone would have an equal chance at the general fishing. For a day or two beforehand the whole place was in commotion making ready. On the appointed day, about 500 boats large and small from around the bay rendezvoused at the quay, and on a signal they all sailed out together in regular order. The book calls it, from the heights of the town, perhaps one of the most gratifying sights that can be well imagined. Out at the fishing grounds the admiral gave another signal, the nets were set, and every boat was left to make the best use of its time. When the great shoal arrived, the herrings separated into smaller schools to spawn, filling all the creeks and harbours, and the fishermen followed and took them. On the return home, the women exclusively possessed the produce of the labour.

Defeat and slaughter of the titular archbishop of Tuam at Sligo, 1645

Sligo · town · Sligo · 1645

In 1645, Sir Charles Coote defeated and killed the titular archbishop of Tuam during an attempt to recover Sligo. A dispatch from the abbot of Kilmannock to the warden of Galway describes how, after taking Sligo Abbey and hearing of Coote's approach, the confederate forces were put to flight and the archbishop and several clergymen were killed and mangled near Sligo.

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The affairs of the confederates proceeded prosperously in Connaught, until the defeat and slaughter, by Sir Charles Coote, of the titular archbishop of Tuam in 1645, in his attempt to recover Sligo. The important consequences which followed this event, particularly that attending the discovery, among the archbishop's papers, of an authentic copy of the famous private treaty between Charles I. and the earl of Glamorgan, are fully detailed in all the histories of this period; but the subjoined dispatch, from the abbot of Kilmannock to the warden of Galway, contains a more satisfactory account of the affair itself than is elsewhere to be found. 9 During
9 " To the warden of Galway. — Here is a true tragedie of the unhappie expedition of Sligoe, viz. last Sunday, in the afternoon, our forces, after taking the abbie of Sligoe, and hearing of the appreach of Coote with a strong relief from the North, begun to inarch back from Sligoe ; and though they beat the enemie that day and the day before, yet then, a few horse of the said enemie put them most shamefully to flight, in which xight (proh dolor,) my lord archbishop, father Teige Conel, father Augustine Higgin, with other clergymen, were killed, and pittifullie mangled, and soe left in the way near Slieoe. General Taffe sent a trumpet to Sligoe, and got newes, on the 27th instant, that the Scots will not part with my lord archbishop's body, wihout getting out of it thirty pounds sterling. The said trumpetter brought with him two letters from

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 100

As the companion tells it

Sligo, in 1645, was the scene of a short and bloody reversal for the confederate cause in Connaught. The titular archbishop of Tuam had joined the attempt to recover the town for the confederates. A dispatch survives from the abbot of Kilmannock to the warden of Galway, and it tells what happened in his own words. He wrote that on a Sunday afternoon, the confederate forces, after taking the abbey of Sligo and hearing of the approach of Sir Charles Coote with a strong relief from the North, began to march back from the town. They had beaten the enemy that day and the day before. Yet then, in his words, "a few horse of the said enemie put them most shamefully to flight." In that flight, he wrote, "my lord archbishop, father Teige Conel, father Augustine Higgin, with other clergymen, were killed, and pittifullie mangled, and soe left in the way near Sligoe." Afterward, General Taffe sent a trumpet to Sligo, and on the 27th of the month brought news that the Scots would not give up the archbishop's body without thirty pounds sterling. Among the archbishop's papers, an authentic copy was found of the private treaty between Charles I and the earl of Glamorgan, a discovery whose consequences ran far beyond this fight.

Duelling tradition among Galway's inhabitants

Galway · city · Galway

The practice of duelling was notably prevalent among the people of the town and county of Galway, attributed partly to Spanish cultural influence and a strong sense of honour. The custom was said to be declining with advancing civilization, though far from eradicated.

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"possessing an inordinate quantity of pride," or, as described by lord Clanricarde in 1641, they "were not without a large portion of pride, and particularly piqued themselves on entertaining high notions of honor." This feeling, if not originally acquired, certainly suffered no diminution during their long continued intercourse with the Spanish nation ;13 some will even assert that it has been communicated to their descendants, and that it may be very visibly perceived amongst many of them at the present day. 14 From this source most probably sprung the practice of duelling, 15 for which the inhabitants of the town and county of Galway have been heretofore so remarkable, and which, even still, is far from being eradicated. This custom is rather singular for being so general among a people well known to be religious by habit; but, like the celebrated chevalier Bayard, "the knight without fear or reproach," it may be said of many an individual here "that he always heard mass before he fought a duel." As civilization, however, advances, it is observable that this practice is gradually declining. Another propensity, which has been also pointed out as tolerably general in this part of Ireland, is an inclination for law, or, according to some, an immoderate love of litigation. 16 This, however, admits of some qualification. It may, with as much propriety, be termed a desire to obtain strict and impartial justice; and we have the authority of Sir John Davis for asserting "that no nation under the sun did love equal and indifferent justice better than the Irish." But it must still be conceded that the decline of both or either of these propensities, and the increase of industrious habits, would have the most salutary effects on the morals, happiness, and prosperity of the people.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 252

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a place once remarkable for duelling. The people here possessed, as Lord Clanricarde put it in 1641, a large portion of pride, and piqued themselves on high notions of honour. Long intercourse with the Spanish nation only strengthened that feeling, and from it most probably sprang the practice of duelling, for which the inhabitants of the town and county of Galway were heretofore so remarkable. The custom was singular among a people well known to be religious by habit. Yet, like the chevalier Bayard, the knight without fear or reproach, it may be said of many an individual here that he always heard mass before he fought a duel. As civilization advances, the practice is gradually declining, though even still it is far from being eradicated. Another propensity pointed out as general in this part of Ireland is an inclination for law, or an immoderate love of litigation. It may with as much propriety be termed a desire to obtain strict and impartial justice. Sir John Davis asserted that no nation under the sun did love equal and indifferent justice better than the Irish. The decline of both propensities, and the increase of industrious habits, would have the most salutary effects on the morals, happiness, and prosperity of the people.

Famine and plague after Galway's surrender

Galway · city · Galway

Following the surrender of Galway, a famine swept the countryside killing multitudes, succeeded by a plague that carried off thousands in the town and surrounding districts. The visitation lasted two years, sweeping away upwards of one-third of the province's population.

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With feelings of tha deepest emotion, the attention of the reader will now be turned towards the state of affairs within this devoted and unhappy though once prosperous and flourishing, town, whose inhabitants were the first in Ireland that took up arms in defence of their religion and king, and the last, either in Great Britain or Ireland, that laid them down. The surrender was followed by a famine throughout the country, by which multitudes perished. This was again succeeded by a plague, which carried off thousands both in the town and the surrounding districts; so that the severest vengeance of heaven seemed now to have been poured down on the heads of this devoted community. Many, driven to despair by the severities inflicted upon them, instead of avoiding the pestilence, sought refuge in death from their merciless persecutors. This dreadful visitation continued for two years, during which upwards of one-third of the population of the province was swept away, and those who survived were doomed to undergo sufferings to which even death itself was preferable. Col. Stubbers, who was appointed military governor of the town upon its surrender, under pretence of taking up vagrants and idle persons, made frequent nightly excursions, with armed troops, into the country, and seized upwards of a thousand people, often without discrimination of rank or condition, whom he transported to the West Indies, and there had sold as slaves. 20 But the town was the great scene of persecution. Immediately after the surrender, a contribution, amounting to four hundred pounds monthly, was imposed contrary to the articles, which terminated in the total ru'n of the inhabitants. This excessive charge was exacted with the utmost severity. An author who was then in the town relates, 21 that unless it was paid to the last farthing, at a certain hour, every Saturday, of which notice was given by beat of drum or sounding of trumpets, the soldiers rushed to the houses of the inhabitants, and, with their muskets pointed to the breasts of the inmates, threatened them with immediate death, unless paid whatever they thought proper to demand; and when, fsom the continual payments, the town s people were unable any longer to discharge it, such articles of household furniture as the soldiery could find, even to the clothes of the women, were seized, and sold in the marketplace for whatever they would bring; so that, according to this author, the return of Saturdav. being the period of payment and visitation, seemed to the inhabitants to realize the idea formed of the day of judgment, the sounding of the trumpets striking them with almost equal terror.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 109

As the companion tells it

Galway was a town whose inhabitants were the first in Ireland to take up arms in defence of their religion and king, and the last in Great Britain or Ireland to lay them down. After the surrender, a famine swept through the country, and multitudes perished. A plague followed, carrying off thousands in the town and the surrounding districts. The visitation lasted two years, and upwards of one-third of the population of the province was swept away. Many, driven to despair by the severities inflicted on them, did not try to avoid the pestilence but sought refuge in death from their persecutors. Colonel Stubbers was appointed military governor upon the surrender. Under pretence of taking up vagrants and idle persons, he made frequent nightly excursions with armed troops into the country and seized upwards of a thousand people, often without discrimination of rank or condition, transported them to the West Indies, and had them sold as slaves. The town itself was the great scene of persecution. Immediately after the surrender, a contribution of 400 pounds monthly was imposed, contrary to the articles of surrender. An author who was in the town at the time relates that unless it was paid to the last farthing at a certain hour every Saturday, of which notice was given by beat of drum or sounding of trumpets, the soldiers rushed to the houses of the inhabitants, and with their muskets pointed to the breasts of the inmates, threatened them with immediate death unless paid whatever they thought proper to demand. When the townspeople could no longer discharge it, household furniture, even to the clothes of the women, was seized and sold in the marketplace for whatever it would bring. The return of Saturday seemed to the inhabitants to realize the idea of the day of judgment, the sounding of the trumpets striking them with almost equal terror.

Foundation stone of St. Nicholas collegiate chapel laid in Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1816

On 1 July 1816, the anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne, Hyacinth Daly, the Protestant mayor of Galway, laid the foundation stone of the new Catholic collegiate chapel of St. Nicholas. The event was noted as unprecedented, demonstrating increasing liberality in a town where Catholics had recently been liable to prosecution.

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14 The foundation of the new collegiate chapel of St. Nicholas was laid on 1st July 1816 (being the old anniversary of the battle of the Boyne), by Hyacinth Daly, esq., mayor of the town. This memorable day presented a sight in Galway which forcibly evinced the increasing liberality of the times, and which was as grateful to every liberal, patriotic and enlightened mind as it was novel and unprecedented in the aimals of the country — the head of a Protestant corporation laying the foundation of a Catholic chapel, in a town where, within the memory of many persons yet living, a Catholic would be liable to prosecution for daring to avow the principles of his religion. The following account of this transaction is abstracted from the pubuc prints of the day : — "On the 1st of July, 1816, the first stone was laid in the foundation of a new parish chapel, on the site where the old ono

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 215

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a city where something remarkable happened on 1 July 1816. That date was the old anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne, and on it Hyacinth Daly, the Protestant mayor of Galway, laid the foundation stone of the new Catholic collegiate chapel of St. Nicholas. The source calls it a sight that showed the increasing liberality of the times, and novel and unprecedented in the annals of the country. The head of a Protestant corporation was laying the foundation of a Catholic chapel in a town where, within living memory, a Catholic could be prosecuted for daring to avow the principles of his religion.

Franciscan abbey chapel repaired, friars arrested (1724)

Galway · city · Galway · 1724

In 1724 the Franciscan abbey chapel in Galway was repaired and mass was publicly celebrated, offending the corporation heads. The mayor ordered the arrest of four friars, who were tried on capital indictments at the assizes but all acquitted.

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1724. The abbey chapel was repaired, and mass publicly celebrated, which gave great offence to the heads of the corporation. The friars, four in number, were arrested by order of the mayor, and tried on capital indictments at the ensuing assizes, but were severally acquitted.
1 73 1 . The town sheriffs searched the friary, and the mayor, in his return to the house of lords, stated that in it "there is a large chapel, with an altar, laid out and adorned with pictures; in which said reputed friary there are fifteen chambers and nine beds, wherein they (the sheriffs) supposed the friars belonging to the said friary usually lay; but could not find or discover any of them. It is an old friary; but the chapel enlarged and repaired about the year 1723 or 1724."

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 218

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are on the ground of an old Franciscan friary whose story flared up in 1724. That year the abbey chapel was repaired and mass was publicly celebrated, which gave great offence to the heads of the corporation. The mayor ordered the arrest of four friars, and they were tried on capital indictments at the ensuing assizes, but were all acquitted. The town sheriffs searched the friary and found, in the mayor's own words to the house of lords, "a large chapel, with an altar, laid out and adorned with pictures," along with fifteen chambers and nine beds, but could not find or discover any of the friars themselves. The mayor noted it was an old friary, with the chapel enlarged and repaired around 1723 or 1724.

Galway surrenders to Cromwell's forces under Sir Charles Coote

Galway · city · Galway · 1652

In April 1652, commissioners appointed by Sir Charles Coote agreed articles of surrender with the representatives of Galway. The town, its forts, fortifications, and military supplies were to be delivered to Coote for the Commonwealth of England, with inhabitants guaranteed quarter for their lives and liberty without pillage.

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I. Imprimis — It is concluded, accorded and agreed, by and between the said parties, that the towne of Gallway. the forts, fortifications, artilleries, magazines, amunicon, and all other furniture of warr thereunto belonging shall be delivered unto Sir Charles Coote, knt. and bart. lord president of Connaught, or whom he shall appointe for the use of the commonwealth of England, by or upon the 12th instant, at tenn of the clock in the morning in consideracon of the articles hereafter specified.
II. It is concluded and agreed upon, by and between the said parties, that, in consideracon of the said surrender, all persons, of what degree or quality soever, within the said towne, shall have quarter for their lives and liberty of their persons, without any pillage, plunder, or milytary violence to their persons or goods, during their obedience to the

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 275

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are on ground that surrendered in April 1652. Commissioners appointed by Sir Charles Coote agreed articles with the town's representatives. Galway, its forts, fortifications, artillery, magazines, ammunition, and all furniture of war were to be delivered to Coote for the Commonwealth of England, by the 12th of the instant at ten in the morning. In return, all persons within the town, of whatever degree, were guaranteed quarter for their lives and liberty, without pillage, plunder, or military violence to their persons or goods, so long as they remained obedient.

Portumna Castle jury defies king's title claim

Portumna · town · Galway · 1635–1636

At Portumna Castle, the Galway county jury unanimously found against the king's title despite the local deputy presiding. The sheriff Martin Darcy and the jurors were arrested, brought to Dublin, fined heavily, and imprisoned; Darcy died in prison from severe treatment.

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the first inquiry was held at Boyle, in Roscommon, on 10th July following, when the jury found the king's title without scruple. This servile example was followed in Sligo, where the trial was held on 20th of the same month, and in Mayo, where it took place at Ballinrobe, on the 31st;31 but when they came to Galway their progress was stopped, and this arbitrary measure met with the most determined and effectual opposition from the gentlemen of the county, whose independent spirit, strict adherence to trutfi and justice, and conscientious discharge of their duty, on this occasion, deserve to be for ever commemorated. The trial came on at Portumna castle, where, notwithstanding the presence of the local deputy himself, who sat on the bench, and the many specious arguments made use of by council, to induce the jury to find the king's title, they unanimously found against it. His lordship, violently enraged at this decision, immediately put the sheriff Mr. Martin __-arcy, of the family of Kiltolla, and the jury under arrest, had them brought close prisoners to Dublin, and there tried before himself in the castle chamber. " We bethought ourselves," says he, " of a course to vindicate his majesty's honor and justice, not only against the persons of the jurors, but against the sheriff, for returning so insufficient, indeed we conceived so packed, a jury, and therefore we fine the sheriff in 10001. to his majesty, the jurors in 40001. each, and to be imprisoned until the fines should be paid, and until they should acknowledge their offence in court upon their knees. "32 — The jurors petitioned to be discharged, but were refused, execpt upon condition of their making a public acknowledgment that they committed not only an error in judgment but even actual perjury in their verdict, terms which they disdainfully rejected. The sheriff died in prison, owing to severe treatment, 33 and the jury were most cruelly used, until, after suffering all the rigors of confinement, their fines were reduced, and themselves released, at the solicitation of the earl of Qanricarde.34

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 90

Winter expulsion of Galway's inhabitants

Galway · city · Galway · 1655

On 30 October 1655, all Irish and Catholic inhabitants were ordered removed from Galway. Coote carried this out with unrelenting severity: the inhabitants were driven out in a severe winter without fire or sufficient clothing, forced to shelter by ditches and in poor cabins in the country, and many died from the inclemency of the season.

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town, and the great intercourse the inhabitants had for many ages with the dominions of the king of Spain, and conceiving it probable that the Spaniard might entertain more than common hopes from that circumstance, under colour of giving succour to the king of Scots," (Charles II.) they accordingly, on the 30th of October, ordered, " that all the Irish and other popish inhabitants should be forthwith removed out of the town, in order that accommodation should be provided for such Eng lish Protestants, whose integrity to the State would entitle them to be trusted in a place of such importance." This order was carried into effect by Coote, the lord president, with unrelenting severity. 26 The wretched inhabitants, without distinction of rank or sex, except a few who were oppressed by sickness and years, were driven out of the town in the midst of winter, (which was, at the time, peculiarly severe,) and were forced to take shelter by the ditches and in poor cabins in the country, without fire or sufficient clothing, in consequence of which many fell victims to the uncommon inclemency of the season. Thus deprived of its inhabitants, who were succeeded only by soldiery, the town presented the appearance of a military camp, without either order or regularity, and soon fell to decay. The superb houses, which, in the language of the Annals, were "fit to lodge kings and princes," and are described as the best built and most splendidly furnished of any in the kingdom, were seized upon and occupied by the lowest of the populace, until they were completely ruined. The

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 112

As the companion tells it

Galway is a city the road passes through, and in the winter of 1655 it was emptied of its people. On the 30th of October that year, an order was given that all Irish and Catholic inhabitants should be removed from the town, so that accommodation could be provided for English Protestants whose loyalty to the state would qualify them for a place of such importance. The order was carried out by Coote, the lord president, with unrelenting severity. The inhabitants were driven out without distinction of rank or sex, except for a few who were oppressed by sickness and old age. It was the midst of winter, and the season was peculiarly severe. They were forced to take shelter by ditches and in poor cabins in the country, without fire or sufficient clothing, and many fell victims to the uncommon inclemency of the season. Deprived of its inhabitants, who were succeeded only by soldiery, the town presented the appearance of a military camp, without either order or regularity, and soon fell to decay. The superb houses, which in the language of the Annals were "fit to lodge kings and princes," and described as the best built and most splendidly furnished of any in the kingdom, were seized upon and occupied by the lowest of the populace, until they were completely ruined.

Partition of Ireland between Con and Eogan, c. 166

Galway · city · Galway · 166–181

Around the year 166, Con, monarch of Ireland, and Eogan, king of Munster, partitioned Ireland by a boundary from Dublin to Galway through Clonard, Clonmacnoise and Eisgirriada. The northern half was called Leath-cuin and the southern Leath-mogha, names retained in many places to the present day.

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The last, and most famous partition of Ireland, was that which took place about the year 166, between Con, called in Irish Con cead Chathach, or of the hundred battles, then monarch of the entire Island, and Eogan king of Munster. This division was nearly the same as that originally made by the sons of Milesius, but now more precisely determined by a line or boundary drawn across the kingdom, from Dublin to Galway, through Cluan-ard, Cuan-mac-Nois and Eisgir-riada. All to the north of this boundary was called Leath-cuin, or Con's half, and all to the south Leathmogha, or Eogan's half; which names they not only long afterwards reiained, but in many places are known by to this day. The partition being thus completed, the two princes quietly enjoyed their respective territories until the year 181, when Eogan, visiting Dublin, found a greater number of ships on the north side of the river than on the south, which consequently caused Con's mercantile revenues here considerably to exceed his own. Upon this discovery, Eogan complained of an infringement of their treaty, and. probably wishing to have a pretext for war, he contended that an equal distribution of the revenues in the ports of Dublin and Galway-5 was implied
4 It is erroneously asserted, that the government, thus formed, was called Conmaethne,, an error which arose from the circumstance of that being anciently the name of several districts in Connaught. Thus Conmacne of Dunmore, in the present county of Galway, was the ancient estate of O'Siodhlan. Conmacne Cuiletola, now the barony of Kilmain, in the county of Mayo, was the lordship of O'Talcarain ; and Conmacnemara, in the County of Galway. was the country of O'Cad'hla, i.e. O'Keily. It is now the barony of Ballinahinch, or the district of the Islands. — O'Brien.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 36

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are on the line of one of the most famous partitions of Ireland. About the year 166, Con, called in Irish Con cead Chathach, or of the hundred battles, monarch of the entire island, and Eogan, king of Munster, divided the kingdom between them. The boundary ran from Dublin to Galway, through Clonard, Clonmacnoise and Eisgirriada. Everything north of that line was called Leath-cuin, Con's half, and everything south was Leath-mogha, Eogan's half. Those names lasted long afterwards and are still known in many places today. The two princes held their territories in peace until the year 181. Then Eogan came to Dublin and saw more ships on the north side of the river than on the south. Con's revenues from trade there ran well beyond his own. Eogan called it a breach of their treaty, and likely wanted a pretext for war, for he argued that an equal sharing of revenues from the ports of Dublin and Galway was implied in the agreement. An old error holds that the government formed by this division was called Conmaethne. It was not. Conmaethne was anciently the name of several districts in Connaught. Conmacne of Dunmore, in the present county of Galway, was the estate of O'Siodhlan. Conmacne Cuiletola, now the barony of Kilmain in Mayo, belonged to O'Talcarain. And Conmacnemara, in the county of Galway, was the country of O'Keily, now the barony of Ballinahinch, or the district of the Islands.

Archbishop of Tuam defies nuncio and forces open Galway church doors

Galway · city · Galway · 1648

The Archbishop of Tuam arrived in Galway and, having demanded to see the nuncio's authority, was refused. The archbishop declared he would not obey and immediately caused the church doors to be opened by force, directly challenging the nuncio's interdict on divine offices.

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The assembly at Kilkenny having found it necessary to conclude a cessation of arms with lord Inchiquin, president of Munster, Rinuncini, the Pope's nuncio, immediately published a declaration against it. From this the assembly appealed, and was supported by a great body of the clergy of the kingdom, together with the army under the command of the marquis of Clanricarde, lord Taaffe and general Preston. In vain the nuncio fulrninated his excommunications; his measures and party fell into discredit In this dilemma he sought refuge in Galway, where he had some abettors, particularly the warden and others, whom his presence and exhortations stimulated to open acts of violence and commotion. The mayor was desirous to proclaim the cessation, but was prevented by the populace, who forced their way into his house, and wrested the ensigns of authority from his hands; but this insolence occasioned such a tumult, that, had they not been immediately restored by the very hand that took them, the conseauences would have been lamentable; and, even as it was, two or three men were killed. The carmelite friars, shewing some resistance against this proud ecclesiastic, their dwelling was assaulted by night, and their persons abused. In a fit of rage he ordered the bell to be pulled down, and placed two priests at the entry to their chapel, to keep the people from lesorting there to prayers. Those who favoured the cessation were declared under censure; the churches were closed, and all divine offices interdicted. In this state v/as the town, when the archbiyhop of Tuam, who declared against these measures, arrived. Having desired to see the nuncio's power for assuming such authority, he refused t o produce it, whereupon the prelate told him to his face that he would not obey: "Ego," answered the nuncio, "non ostendam:" "et Ego," replied the archbishop, "non obediam;" and he immediately after caused the church doors to be opened by force. The nuncio, finding himself thus opposed, summoned a synod to meet in Galway on the 15th of August: but the council forbidding the clergy to attend, and ordering all civil and military officers to stop their passage, they were unable to meet. Lord Clanricarde having been, in the m^an time, reinforced by Inchiquin, laid siege to the town on the 14th of August, and, hindering all access of provisions by land or water, the promoters of these violent proceedings, unprepared for a siege, were

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 102

As the companion tells it

Galway, in 1648, became the stage for a confrontation between a papal nuncio and an Irish archbishop. The assembly at Kilkenny had concluded a cessation of arms with Lord Inchiquin, president of Munster. Rinuccini, the Pope's nuncio, published a declaration against it. The assembly appealed and was supported by a great body of the clergy, together with the army under the marquis of Clanricarde, Lord Taaffe and General Preston. The nuncio fulminated his excommunications, but his measures and party fell into discredit. He sought refuge in Galway, where he had supporters, particularly the warden and others, whom his presence stimulated to acts of violence. The mayor wished to proclaim the cessation but was prevented by the populace, who forced into his house and wrested the ensigns of authority from his hands. They were immediately restored, but two or three men were killed. The Carmelite friars showed some resistance against the nuncio, and their dwelling was assaulted by night and their persons abused. He ordered the bell pulled down and placed two priests at the entry to their chapel to keep people from prayers. The churches were closed and all divine offices interdicted. The archbishop of Tuam, who declared against these measures, arrived. Having desired to see the nuncio's power for assuming such authority, the nuncio refused to produce it. The archbishop told him to his face that he would not obey. The nuncio answered, "non ostendam," and the archbishop replied, "non obediam." He immediately caused the church doors to be opened by force. The nuncio summoned a synod to meet in Galway on the 15th of August, but the council forbade the clergy to attend and ordered all civil and military officers to stop their passage, so they were unable to meet. Lord Clanricarde, reinforced by Inchiquin, laid siege to the town on the 14th of August.

Fire of 1500 consumes much of Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1500

An accidental fire in 1500 consumed a great part of the town of Galway, temporarily impeding the improvements then underway. The inhabitants soon repaired their losses and went on to beautify the town with superb structures bearing dates and inscriptions.

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The corporate regulations already detailed infused new spirit and vigour among the inhabitants. Several useful and considerable works were now undertaken by the corporation; and, in the mayoralty of Andrew Lynch Fitz-Stephen, in 1498, the important communication from Lough-athalia to Poulavorline, which would have opened an easy passage from Lough-corrib to the sea, (and which is still so desirable,) was commenced, but never completed. The remains of this useful, but neglected, work are yet visible, and are distinguishd by the name of " Lynch' s Folly." In the same year the curfew-bell was introduced, and a considerable part of the fortifications from the shoemaker s-tower to the quay was bulit. These improvements were for a while impeded by an accidental fire which took place in 1500, and consumed a great part of the town. The inhabitants, however, soon repaired these losses, and afterwards, from time to time, beautified the town with several most superb structures, many of which remain entire to this day; bearing dates and inscriptions which generally contain the names of their founders, and denote the particular periods of their erection..
The town had hitherto, for a considerable time, enjoyed the blessings of peace, except the predatory attempts of the Irish may be deemed exceptions; but William de Burgo, O'Brien of Thomond, M'Namara, O'Carroll and other chieftains, having in 1504 risen in arms, they suddenly invested and took possession of the town. Gearld, earl of Kildare, the lord deputy, assisted by O'Neal O'Donnell and others, marched against them with a considerable force : both armies met at the hill of Knoc-tuadh, about seven miles N.W. of Galway; and although the Irish army is stated to have been the most numerous that had asembled since the arrival of the English, it was routed with dreadful slaughter; Mac William and the other leaders were taken prisoners, and the towns of Galway and Athenry surrendered. 23

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 69

As the companion tells it

Galway is a city the road passes through. In the years around 1500, the corporation had taken on new spirit, and several considerable works were underway. In 1498, during the mayoralty of Andrew Lynch Fitz-Stephen, work began on a channel from Lough-athalia to Poulavorline, meant to open an easy passage from Lough-corrib to the sea. It was never finished. The remains are still visible, known as Lynch's Folly. That same year the curfew-bell was introduced, and a considerable stretch of fortifications was built, from the shoemaker's tower to the quay. These improvements were interrupted by an accidental fire in 1500, which consumed a great part of the town. The inhabitants soon repaired their losses, and went on to beautify the town with superb structures, many of which still stand, carrying dates and inscriptions that name their founders and mark when they were built. The town had enjoyed peace for some time, apart from predatory raids by the Irish. But in 1504, William de Burgo, O'Brien of Thomond, M'Namara, O'Carroll and other chieftains rose in arms and suddenly took possession of the town. Gerald, earl of Kildare, the lord deputy, assisted by O'Neal, O'Donnell and others, marched against them. Both armies met at the hill of Knock-tuadh, about seven miles northwest of the town. The Irish army was said to be the most numerous assembled since the arrival of the English, but it was routed with dreadful slaughter. Mac William and the other leaders were taken prisoners, and the towns of Galway and Athenry surrendered.

Galway by-laws ban Irish-style keening at funerals

Galway · city · Galway · 1605

Galway corporation enacted by-laws prohibiting women from making open cries or keening after the Irish fashion at deaths, in houses, streets, churches, or fields. The by-laws also regulated candle-makers, artisans' daytime conduct, and women's apparel, barring hats coloured other than black except for the mayoress.

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That no woman shall make no open noise of an unreasonable chree, after the Irishrie, either before, ne yet after, the death of any corpes, moche less in the house, street, and before all in the church, the house ne yett in the fields ; we mcane ther singing songs ( songe to the praise of men, both deade and also alive, and not to God everlyinge.— Orig. MS.
1605.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 174

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this was a town that tried to silence an old mourning custom. In 1605 the corporation made by-laws against women making open cries at deaths and funerals, a practice they called 'after the Irishrie.' The ban covered houses, streets, churches, and fields. They objected to women singing songs in praise of the dead and the living, rather than to God.

Theatre in Kirwan's Lane, Galway

Kirwan's Lane · street · Kildare

Galway's theatre was situated in Kirwan's Lane, described as one of the most confined and inconvenient parts of the town. Despite its small size, the scenery was elegant and celebrated performers including Barry, Mossop, Kemble, and Siddons visited.

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The theatre is situate in Kirwan's-lane, which is one of the most confined and inconvenient parts of the town. The house is small, but the scenery is esteemed elegant; and, from the taste and attention of Mr. Macartney, the accommodations are as complete as the nature and size of the building will permit. The most celebrated performers, viz., Barry, Mossop, Kemble, Cooke, Siddons, Walstein and O'Neill, have occasionally visited these boards. The facetious Smithson had long been a favorite; and the exertions of Mr. Clarke to contribute to the rational entertainment of the public are deserving of every success. A new theatre, however, in an open and central situation, appears necessary. The assembly-room in Middle-street frequently displays an assemblage of native beauty, elegance and fashion, which would grace the drawing-rooms of a court. 18 These, with occasional concerts and incidental public exhibitions, are the only
17 The author here oegs leave most respectfully to point the attention of the heads of the corporation to this reprehensible practice, and to a few other matters, which, if heretofore attended to, might have been productive of much public advantage.—The first is the providing a fire-engine, the want of which, m this populous town, has been long and severely felt. It is a well-known melancholy fact that a conflagration here is seldom extinguished for want of proper assistance, until the ill-fated building which it seizes is completely reduced to a heap of rums. —Another most desirable and necessary improvement would be the introduction of water-pipes through the principal streets, or the erection of three or four public fountains, which could be done at no very considerable expense.— The process of

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 253

As the companion tells it

The theatre in Kirwan's Lane stood in one of the most confined and inconvenient parts of Galway. The house itself was small, but the scenery was esteemed elegant, and through the taste and attention of Mr. Macartney, the accommodations were made as complete as the nature and size of the building would permit. Some of the most celebrated performers of their day visited these boards. Barry, Mossop, Kemble, Cooke, Siddons, Walstein and O'Neill all appeared there occasionally. The facetious Smithson had long been a favourite with the audience. And Mr. Clarke's exertions to provide what the source calls rational entertainment for the public were deserving of every success. Even so, the author notes that a new theatre in an open and central situation appeared necessary. The assembly-room in Middle-street, for its part, frequently displayed what the book describes as an assemblage of native beauty, elegance and fashion, which would grace the drawing-rooms of a court. These, with occasional concerts and incidental public exhibitions, were the only amusements available. The author also took the occasion to draw the attention of the heads of the corporation to a few matters of public need, chiefly the providing of a fire-engine, the want of which in that populous town had been long and severely felt. A conflagration there was seldom extinguished for want of proper assistance until the building it seized was reduced to a heap of ruins.

Battle near Athenry and defeat of Fedhlim O'Conor

Athenry · town · Galway

A major battle was fought near Athenry in the County of Galway between Fedhlim's native army and the forces of De Burgh and De Bermingham. Fedhlim fell on the field along with approximately 8000 men; the walls of Athenry are said to have been built from the spoils, and the power of the O'Conors was totally destroyed.

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absence of Fedhlim made pretension to his territory, was taken prisoner and put to death; but the later, soon after driven to desperation, declared for Bruce; and, though he made several incursions on the English settlers in Connaught, he never was able to do any injury to Galway. Sir William Leigh de Burgh (who, in 1296, founded the Franciscan friary in Saint Stephen's island, outside the north gate of the town,) and Richard de Bermingham, the fourth baron of Athenry, 29 were sent against him. Fedhlim met them with a numerous army, and the most sanguinary engagement recorded in our history since the invasion was fought near Athenry, in the County of Galway, in which the native troops were signally defeated. Fedhlim, the last of his name who assumed sovereignty, fell in the field, and with him (as is stated) 8000 men. Fhe walls of Athenry are said to have been built from the spoils of the battle; and the power of the O'Conors, which here received its final blow, was totally destroyed.
This signal defeat of the Irish, which effectually established the dominion of the English settlers in Connaught, was followed by a short interval of peace, the happiest effects of which were experiencd by the town of Galway. The victorious De Burgos, who had now no enemy able to contend against them, ruled the entire province from the Shannon to the sea : they made Galway the chief point wherein all their power centred, and in which the principal heads of the family resided; in consequence of which, its trade, buildings and inhabitants, continued rapidly to increase. The church of Saint Nicholas was founded in 1320, and many other useful improvements were made; but the peace of the town was, about that time, disturbed by some deadly disputes which arose between the rival families

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 51

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, one of the bloodiest battles since the Norman invasion was fought. Fedhlim O'Conor had declared for Bruce and made several incursions against the English settlers in Connaught, though he never managed to harm Galway itself. Sir William Leigh de Burgh, who founded the Franciscan friary in 1296, and Richard de Bermingham, the fourth baron of Athenry, were sent against him. Fedhlim met them with a numerous army, and the native troops were signally defeated. He was the last of his name to assume sovereignty, and he fell on the field, along with, as stated, 8000 men. The walls of Athenry are said to have been built from the spoils of the battle. The power of the O'Conors, which here received its final blow, was totally destroyed. The defeat effectually established the dominion of the English settlers in Connaught, and was followed by a short interval of peace that benefited the town of Galway. The De Burgos ruled the entire province from the Shannon to the sea, made Galway the centre of their power, and the town's trade, buildings and inhabitants increased rapidly. The church of Saint Nicholas was founded in 1320, though peace was soon disturbed by deadly disputes between rival families.

Carmelite friars' dwelling assaulted by night in Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1648

When the Carmelite friars of Galway showed resistance against the nuncio Rinuccini, their dwelling was assaulted by night and their persons abused. Rinuccini ordered their bell pulled down and placed two priests at the chapel entry to prevent people from resorting there to prayers.

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The assembly at Kilkenny having found it necessary to conclude a cessation of arms with lord Inchiquin, president of Munster, Rinuncini, the Pope's nuncio, immediately published a declaration against it. From this the assembly appealed, and was supported by a great body of the clergy of the kingdom, together with the army under the command of the marquis of Clanricarde, lord Taaffe and general Preston. In vain the nuncio fulrninated his excommunications; his measures and party fell into discredit In this dilemma he sought refuge in Galway, where he had some abettors, particularly the warden and others, whom his presence and exhortations stimulated to open acts of violence and commotion. The mayor was desirous to proclaim the cessation, but was prevented by the populace, who forced their way into his house, and wrested the ensigns of authority from his hands; but this insolence occasioned such a tumult, that, had they not been immediately restored by the very hand that took them, the conseauences would have been lamentable; and, even as it was, two or three men were killed. The carmelite friars, shewing some resistance against this proud ecclesiastic, their dwelling was assaulted by night, and their persons abused. In a fit of rage he ordered the bell to be pulled down, and placed two priests at the entry to their chapel, to keep the people from lesorting there to prayers. Those who favoured the cessation were declared under censure; the churches were closed, and all divine offices interdicted. In this state v/as the town, when the archbiyhop of Tuam, who declared against these measures, arrived. Having desired to see the nuncio's power for assuming such authority, he refused t o produce it, whereupon the prelate told him to his face that he would not obey: "Ego," answered the nuncio, "non ostendam:" "et Ego," replied the archbishop, "non obediam;" and he immediately after caused the church doors to be opened by force. The nuncio, finding himself thus opposed, summoned a synod to meet in Galway on the 15th of August: but the council forbidding the clergy to attend, and ordering all civil and military officers to stop their passage, they were unable to meet. Lord Clanricarde having been, in the m^an time, reinforced by Inchiquin, laid siege to the town on the 14th of August, and, hindering all access of provisions by land or water, the promoters of these violent proceedings, unprepared for a siege, were

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 102

As the companion tells it

In 1648, Galway became the refuge of Rinuccini, the Pope's nuncio, after the assembly at Kilkenny concluded a cessation of arms with Lord Inchiquin, president of Munster. Rinuccini published a declaration against it. The assembly appealed and was supported by a great body of the clergy, together with the army under the marquis of Clanricarde, lord Taaffe, and general Preston. His excommunications failed, and his party fell into discredit. He came to Galway, where the warden and others were his abettors. The mayor wished to proclaim the cessation, but the populace forced their way into his house and wrested the ensigns of authority from his hands. The symbols were quickly restored by the very hand that took them, but two or three men were killed in the tumult. The Carmelite friars showed some resistance against the nuncio. Their dwelling was assaulted by night, and their persons abused. In a fit of rage he ordered the bell to be pulled down, and placed two priests at the entry to their chapel, to keep the people from resorting there to prayers. Those who favoured the cessation were declared under censure, the churches were closed, and all divine offices interdicted. The archbishop of Tuam, who declared against these measures, arrived and asked to see the nuncio's authority. Rinuccini refused to produce it. The archbishop told him he would not obey. "Ego," answered the nuncio, "non ostendam." "Et Ego," replied the archbishop, "non obediam." He immediately caused the church doors to be opened by force. Rinuccini summoned a synod for the 15th of August, but the council forbade the clergy to attend and ordered officers to stop their passage. On the 14th of August, Lord Clanricarde, reinforced by Inchiquin, laid siege to the town.

Claddagh St. John's Eve procession through Galway

Claddagh · electoral division · Galway

On the evening of June 24th, the Claddagh community assembles at the head of the village for a procession led by their mayor, who adjusts rank and precedence. Accompanied by music and crowds, they march through the principal streets and suburbs of Galway, with young men in white jackets and sashes bearing poles with emblematic devices, collecting money from principal inhabitants before returning to bonfires in their village.

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Drinking, dancing, and listening to music are their principal amusements : the feast of St. Patrick is one of their grand gala days. After pouring copious libations to the honour of the patron 6aint during the forenoon of this festival, they assemble towards evening in groups to partake _pf plentiful repasts at their favourite public houses. Here they and their families continue for two or three days in one continued scene of merriment and inebriety, and never, during the happy octave, so much as think of going to sea. At other times the Sunday and holiday evenings are entirely devoted to dancing ; and. though these people are passionately fond of such music as itinerant pipers and fiddlers can afford, yet it has been remarked that even a passable song has never been heard amongst them. The Nativity of St. John the Baptist (24th June) they celebrate by a very peculiar kind of pageantry. On the evening of that day the young and old assemble at the head of the village ; and their mayor, whose orders are decisive, adjusts the rank, order and precedence of this curious procession. They then set eut, headed by a band of music, and march with loud and continued huzzas and acclamations of joy, accompanied by crowds of people, through the principal streets and suburbs of the town : the young men all uniformly
M M

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 238

As the companion tells it

Claddagh, a village on the edge of Galway, holds a peculiar pageantry on the evening of June 24, the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist. The young and old assemble at the head of the village. Their mayor, whose orders are decisive, adjusts the rank, order, and precedence of this curious procession. They set out, headed by a band of music, and march with loud and continued huzzas and acclamations of joy, accompanied by crowds of people, through the principal streets and suburbs of the town. The young men all wear white jackets and sashes, and carry poles bearing emblematic devices. As they march, they collect money from the principal inhabitants. When it is done, they return to bonfires in their village. The rest of the year, their amusements are drinking, dancing, and listening to music. On Saint Patrick's day they pour copious libations to the honour of the patron saint, then gather at their favourite public houses, where they and their families continue for two or three days in merriment, and never during the happy octave think of going to sea. Sunday and holiday evenings are devoted to dancing. They are passionately fond of music from itinerant pipers and fiddlers, yet it has been remarked that even a passable song has never been heard amongst them.

Dispersed Dominican nuns found Dublin convent, 1717

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1717

Eight of the dispersed Dominican nuns from Galway obtained permission from the titular archbishop of Dublin and repaired to the capital in March 1717. They first dwelt in a house in Fisher's-lane on the north side of the river, then removed in September to Channel-row, afterwards Brunswick-street, where they originated the convent of Jesus, Mary and Joseph of Dublin.

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In 1698 they were again dispersed. It was most deplorable, says the historian of these melancholy scenes, to witness the cries and tears of these distressed females, by which even their very persecutors were moved to compassion. The convent was converted into a barrack, but the nuns remained secretly in town, amongst their friends, under the direction of their venerable prioress, Julia Nolan, who was released by death from all her sufferings, in 1701, at the age of ninety years, and was succeeded by the sub-prioress, Maria Lynch. They were soon after obliged to quit the town altogether, and seek refuge among their relations in the country, without the most distant hopes of being ever able to return. In this forlorn situation Hugh O'Callanan, the then provincial of the order, having obtained permission from doctor Edmond Byrne, titular archbishop of Dublin, to admit them into kis diocess, eight of the dispersed nuns repaired to the capital, where they arrived in March, 1717, and dwelt together in a house in Fisher' s-lane, on the north side of the river. In September following they removed to Channel-row, afterwards Brunswick-street, where they originated the convent of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, of Dublin. 38 In the
37 The foundation was afterwards confirmed by letters of the nuncio, Rinuncini, who enjoined the nuns to offer up, in perpetuum, certain devotions. " ut Oatholicorum exercitus, de hostibus victoria reportent, pestiferumquo virus Haereticorum ab hoc regno exterminetur." — This curious document may be seen at large in De Burgo's history of this order.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 224

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dublin, you are tracing the steps of eight Dominican nuns who founded a convent here in 1717. These nuns had been dispersed from Galway in 1698, when their convent was turned into a barrack. The historian of those events wrote of the cries and tears of these distressed females, which moved even their persecutors to compassion. They stayed secretly in Galway under their prioress, Julia Nolan, who died in 1701 at the age of 90, and was succeeded by Maria Lynch. They were then forced to leave the town altogether and seek refuge among relations in the country, with no hope of return. The provincial of the order, Hugh O'Callanan, obtained permission from Doctor Edmond Byrne, titular archbishop of Dublin, to admit them into his diocese. The eight arrived in the capital in March 1717 and lived together in a house in Fisher's Lane on the north side of the river. In September they moved to Channel Row, afterwards Brunswick Street, where they originated the convent of Jesus, Mary and Joseph of Dublin.

Fish market women resisted relocation to new market

Galway · city · Galway · 1800

The old fish market women of Galway loudly protested the new market built by subscription under General Meyrick and refused to bring their fish there until coercion was used. They obstinately continued to expose fish for sale in the street outside the market gate, to the great annoyance of passengers.

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The old Poissardes loudly vociferated against this innovation, and refused to bring their fish to the new market until coercion was resorted to. Even still, as if determined to have their own way, they obstinately continue to expose their fish for sale in the street outside the marketgate, to the great annoyance of the passengers. This perverse practice ought to be prevented,
320

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 248

As the companion tells it

Galway, around 1800. A new fish market was built by subscription under General Meyrick. The old fish market women loudly protested and refused to bring their fish there until coercion was used. Even then, they obstinately continued selling fish in the street outside the market gate, to the great annoyance of passengers.

Galway inhabitants killed raiding cattle during blockade

Galway · city · Galway · 1651

During the strict blockade of Galway, about eighty inhabitants slipped out and seized one hundred head of cattle, but were intercepted on their return by a parliamentary party. Over sixty were killed and the cattle retaken, deepening the town's provisions crisis.

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the face of affairs. Being in a state of strict blockade, and provisions beginning to grow scarce, about eighty of the inhabitants went privately out of the town, and seizing one hundred head of cattle, designed to drive them in, but being met on their return by a party of the enemy, upwards of sixty were killed, and the cattle retaken. This disappointment was followed by another much greater; for two vessels laden with corn, endeavouring to get into the harbour, were pursued by two parliamentary frigates, who took one, and forced the other on the rocks, near the islands of Arran, where she was lost.l^ These disasters were considerably heightened by the increased population of the town, which was crowded by multitudes of the nobility, clergy, and other persons of rank and interest in the kingdom, who flocked hither as their last place of refuge and safety. Meetings were frequently held to deliberate upon the state of affairs, at which the marquis of Clanricarde generally presided; and it was at length resolved, when too late, that proposals should be made for a general pacification and settlement of the kingdom. Accordingly dispatches to that effect were sent by the marquis to general Ludlow, on the 14th of February, requiring at the same time, a safe conduct for commissioners to carry on the treaty. To these proposals Ludlow, on the 24th, returned a vague and indefinite answer, merely informing him that the settlement of the nation belonged to the parliament, who he was assured would not capitulate with those who ought to be in submission, and stood in opposition to their authority; but "if the Lord inclined their hearts to submission, such moderate terms would be consented to, as men in their condition could reasonably expect." The submission here intimated may easily be conceived to have meant little less than an absolute surrender of their lives and liberties to the mercy of the besiegers. The great council (as they were still called) again assembled within the town, and resolved to propose a cessation of arms, and demand a licence for commissioners to repair to the parliament in England. These proposals having been also rejected, 18 the principal part of the nobility and

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 106

As the companion tells it

In 1651, Galway was under strict blockade and provisions were growing scarce. About eighty of the inhabitants went privately out of the town and seized one hundred head of cattle, intending to drive them back in. But on their return they were met by a party of the enemy. Upwards of sixty were killed and the cattle retaken. This disappointment was followed by another much greater. Two vessels laden with corn, endeavouring to get into the harbour, were pursued by two parliamentary frigates. They took one and forced the other onto the rocks near the islands of Arran, where she was lost. These disasters were heightened by the increased population of the town, crowded by multitudes of the nobility, clergy, and other persons of rank who flocked there as their last place of refuge. Meetings were frequently held, at which the marquis of Clanricarde generally presided. It was at length resolved, when too late, that proposals should be made for a general pacification. Dispatches were sent by the marquis to general Ludlow on the 14th of February, requesting a safe conduct for commissioners. Ludlow returned a vague answer on the 24th, informing him that the settlement of the nation belonged to the parliament, who would not capitulate with those who ought to be in submission. He added that if the Lord inclined their hearts to submission, moderate terms would be consented to. The great council assembled again and resolved to propose a cessation of arms and demand a licence for commissioners to repair to the parliament in England. These proposals were also rejected.

Galway invested and blockaded by Sir Charles Coote

Galway · city · Galway · 1651

General Preston threw himself into Galway with a few troops and was entrusted with chief command as governor. Sir Charles Coote and commissary-general Reynolds invested the town, quickly reducing it to a state of blockade during the Cromwellian conquest.

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Whilst this hollow negociation was going forward, the parliamentary forces proceeded with rapid strides towards the conquest of the kingdom Preston, the gallant Irish commander, betrayed and gradually defeated in every other quarter, finally threw himself with a few troops into Galway, where he was intrusted with the chief command, and honored with the title of governor. The town was soon after invested by Sir Charles Coote and commissarj'-general Reynolds and was quickly reduced to a state of blockade. The castles of 1 irellan, Oranmore and Clare-Galway were taken; and on the 12th of August, 1651, the enemy pitched their camp between Lough-a-thalia and Suckeen, within a few hundred yards of the walls. Limerick having surrendered on the 27th of October, a council of war was held by Ireton, to determine whether he should immediatey march with his army towards Galway. The general himself and several officers were for this measure; but others complaining of the ill condition of their men, through sickness and severe service, and the near approach of winter, it was resolved that, for the present, they should summon the town to accept the conditions originally tendered to Limerick. Accordingly, on the morning of the 9th of November, dispatches arrived from the lord deputy for the governor, (inclosing letters also to the mayor and inhabitants,) in which, after some pointed reflections, he informs him that if he shall freely communicate the proposals to the town s-people, and be himself, "waving the frivolous impertinencies of a soldier's honor or humor rather,'' inclined to capitulate, he might then expect to participate in the benefit of the conditions; but that if he smothered or suppressed them, he might be sure that his head would pay for the trouble or mischief that should follow. 16

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 105

As the companion tells it

You are passing through Galway now. In 1651, during the Cromwellian conquest, the Irish commander General Preston threw himself into Galway with a few troops and took charge as governor. Sir Charles Coote and commissary-general Reynolds invested the town and quickly reduced it to blockade. The castles of Tirellan, Oranmore and Clare-Galway were taken, and on the 12th of August 1651 the enemy pitched their camp between Lough-a-thalia and Suckeen, within a few hundred yards of the walls. After Limerick surrendered on the 27th of October, Ireton held a council of war to decide whether to march on Galway. Some officers argued their men were worn down by sickness and hard service, and winter was closing in, so instead they summoned the town to accept the conditions first offered to Limerick. On the 9th of November dispatches arrived from the lord deputy for the governor, with letters also to the mayor and inhabitants. He told Preston that if he freely shared the proposals with the townspeople and was himself, as the source puts it, "waving the frivolous impertinencies of a soldier's honor or humor rather," inclined to capitulate, he could expect to share in the benefit of the conditions. But if he suppressed them, his head would pay for the trouble that followed.

Vast beetle swarm descends on Headford district

Headford · town · Galway · 1688

In the summer of 1688 a vast swarm of beetles appeared on the south-west coast of Galway, carried by a S.W. wind. They proceeded towards Headford and lay by thousands among the trees and hedges, hanging from boughs in clusters before taking wing at dusk with a noise like distant drums, darkening the air for miles.

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13. In the summer of 1688, a vast swarm of insects, of the Scarabeus or beetle kind, appeared on the S.W. coast of Galway, not far from the town : they were brought by a S.W. wind, and proceeded towards Headford, where, and in the adjacent country,
they lay by thousands among the trees and hedges, hanging to the boughs in clusters, and sticking to the backs of one a no: her. like bees when they swarm. In this manner they continued quiet during the heat of the day ; but towards evening they simultaneously took wing, with a strange noise, resembling the distant beating of drums, and in such vast and incrediable numbers, as to darken the air for many miles round. In a short time they devoured all the leaves of the trees ; and the country, though it was then the middle of summer, was left as naked as if it had been the depth of winter. The grinding of the leaves in the mouths of this vast multitude made a sound similar to the sawing of timber. They destroyed all the gardens round the countiry, and particularly Mr. Martin's beautiful plantations at Dangan ; entered the houses, and, crawling about, fell into the food of the people j and where-

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 181

As the companion tells it

In the summer of 1688, a vast swarm of beetles came to Headford. They had appeared on the south-west coast of Galway, carried by a south-west wind, and proceeded towards the town. They lay by the thousands among the trees and hedges there and in the country around it, hanging from the boughs in clusters, sticking to the backs of one another, like bees when they swarm. They stayed quiet through the heat of the day. But towards evening they took wing all at once, with a strange noise like the distant beating of drums, and in such numbers that they darkened the air for many miles round. In a short time they had eaten every leaf off the trees. The country, though it was the middle of summer, was left as bare as if it had been the depth of winter. The grinding of the leaves in the mouths of this multitude made a sound like the sawing of timber. They destroyed the gardens all round, and particularly Mr. Martin's beautiful plantations at Dangan. They entered the houses, crawling about, and fell into the food of the people.

Walter Lynch's jealousy at the mayor's house in Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1493

At entertainments given at the mayor's house in Galway to honour the young Spanish visitor Gomez and to advance young Walter Lynch's courtship of the beautiful Agnes, Walter perceived—or imagined—Agnes's eyes beaming with rapture for the Spaniard. Consumed by jealousy, he parted from her in violence and withdrew to revolve a project of revenge.

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family, by whom he was received with that openness of heart and hospitality which has ever characterized the Irish, under any circumstances : and he also recommended to him, in a particular manner, as a companion to his only son, who was but a year or two older than Gomez, and who was considered one of the finest youths of his time : the beauty of his person, and the winning softness of his manners, rendered him a favorite with the fair sex; he was the idol of the people for his affability and spirit, and respected by all ranks for his abilities. With superior height and dignity of mien, he possessed great muscular strength and intrepid spirit, and uncommon vigour of body and mind. Thus highly gifted by nature, and endowed .with every great and good quality of heart, he soon felt the delightful influence of his own attractions, by the general admiration and esteem which they excited in others. But his endowments were not unattended by what is too often seen united with superior qualities, a tendency to the pleasures of libertinism, which greatly afflicted his father, who was himself exemplary for the purity of his life. He, however, now conceived the fullest hope of his reformation, from discovering that he paid honorable addresses to a beautiful and accomplished girl, the daughter of one of his richest and most respectable neighbours; and he found additional satisfaction in procuring for his son the company of one so serious and well brought up as the youthful Gomez, who, he hoped, would assist to draw him entirely from his licentious courses. The year of his return from Spain, this worthy magistrate was more than usually solicitous that nothing should happen to cast a stain upon his house or native town, of which he then was mayor — a rank, in those times, of the greatest importance, and one, on the management of which, more than on that of any other civil employment, the general security depended. The young men lived together in perfect harmony, and frequent entertainments were given at the mayor's house, as well in honour of the stranger, as for the sake of advancing the suit of his son Walter to the beautiful Agnes. At one of those festivals, which, as usual, she adorned with her presence, it happened that her lover either saw, or wliich, with lovers, is the same, imagined that he saw, the eyes of the lovely maiden beam with rapture 01 the young Spaniard. Wild with astonishment, the fairy spell was broken; his ardent and unruly passions took fire at the thought, and he seized an opportunity, not of asking his mistress if his suspicions were founded in fancy or reality, but of upraiding her for her infidelity in terms of haughty anger : she, in her turn, astonished and irritated by such unexpected injustice, and that too from the chosen of her heart, affected disdain to conceal her fondness, and refused to deny the charge. " Love," says some philosooher. who assuredly had felt the passion, " for the most part resembles hatred rather than affection;" and what now passed between these young persons was a confirmation of the truth of that remark. Though mutually enamoured, one obeyed the dictates of jealousy, the other of pride : they parted in violence; and, while the forlorn Agnes may be supposed retiring to weep over her wrongs, her admirer, racked by the fiends and furies that possessed his bosom, withdrew to revolve the direful project of revenge-. Accident contributed at once to \

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 65

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are moving through the setting of a story from 1493. The mayor of the town, a worthy magistrate, had an only son named Walter Lynch, considered one of the finest youths of his time. Walter was tall, strong, handsome, and a favorite with the people, but he had a tendency toward libertinism that troubled his father. That year the mayor was more than usually careful that nothing should stain his house or his town. He had taken in a young Spaniard named Gomez as a companion for Walter, hoping the serious, well-brought-up youth might help draw his son from his licentious courses. Walter was paying honourable addresses to a beautiful and accomplished girl named Agnes, the daughter of one of the richest and most respectable neighbours. The young men lived together in perfect harmony, and frequent entertainments were given at the mayor's house, both to honour the stranger Gomez and to advance Walter's suit. At one of those festivals, Agnes adorned the gathering with her presence, and it happened that Walter either saw, or which with lovers is the same, imagined that he saw, the eyes of the lovely maiden beam with rapture on the young Spaniard. Wild with astonishment, the spell was broken. His ardent passions took fire, and instead of asking his mistress whether his suspicions were founded in fancy or reality, he upbraided her for infidelity in terms of haughty anger. She, astonished and irritated by such unexpected injustice from the chosen of her heart, affected disdain to conceal her fondness and refused to deny the charge. They parted in violence. While Agnes may be supposed retiring to weep over her wrongs, Walter, racked by the furies that possessed his bosom, withdrew to revolve a direful project of revenge.

Claddagh fishermen destroy company boats in fishing dispute

Claddagh · electoral division · Galway

A company of gentlemen fitted out boats with legal nets to cultivate the valuable fishery, but Claddagh fishermen, claiming exclusive rights, violently attacked the company's boats, destroyed nets, cut sails and cables, and ill-treated the crews. The dispute centered on the practice of trawling, which the Claddagh fishermen outrageously resisted.

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risk of being destroyed. Long and serious disputes also subsisted between them and the inhabitants round the bay, as to the mode of fishing by trawling, which though the latter always practised, was invariably and outrageously resisted by the fishermen. A number of gentlemen, convinced of the great advantages to be derived from cultivating this valuable fishery, lately formed themselves into a company; and having at considerable expense fitted out several boats, provided with legal nets and other necessary materials, their exertions were crowned with success. The undertaking while it continued proved highly beneficial to the proprietors, and promised to be much more so; but the Claddagh fishermen, jealous of an infringement on what they called their rights, resolved to suppress this spirit of enterprise by violent means. They accordingly attacked the company's boats, destroyed their nets, cut their sails and cables, threw their anchors overboard, and ilHreated the crews. The gentleman, however, with whom the undertaking had principally originated, and whose property to a con-

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 237

As the companion tells it

Coming up now toward Claddagh, the electoral division on the edge of Galway. These waters were long fought over. The people round the bay had always fished by trawling, but the Claddagh fishermen outrageously resisted that practice. A number of gentlemen, convinced of the advantages of cultivating this valuable fishery, formed themselves into a company. At considerable expense they fitted out several boats with legal nets and all necessary gear, and the undertaking proved highly beneficial to the proprietors, with promise of much more. But the Claddagh fishermen, jealous of what they called their rights, resolved to suppress the enterprise by violent means. They attacked the company's boats, destroyed the nets, cut the sails and cables, threw the anchors overboard, and ill-treated the crews. The dispute centred on trawling itself, which the Claddagh men would not tolerate, and their resistance was given with force.

1524 Peace Treaty between Galway and Limerick

Galway · city · Galway · 1524

A peace treaty was signed on 7 May 1524 in the courthouse of Galway before Mayor Stephyne Lynch Fitz-Domynycke, resolving a trade dispute between Galway and Limerick over a salt bargain and the ransoming of merchant Ambrose Lynch Fitz-James. Arbitrators from both towns agreed to perpetual peace and mutual administration of justice.

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25 In the name of Gode, Amen. This endentur made the seven the daye of Maye, the xvi yeare of the reigne of King© Henry e the eight, and of our Lorde 1524, in the courte house of. Galweye, before Stephyne Lynche Fitz-Domynycke, then beinge mayor. John Fallon and John French, baylyffes, with theyr ooburgens theyr - resembled ; betwexte the city of Lymeryk of that one partye, and the towne of Galweye of that other partye, Wytnessethe, that Chrystofor Artur and Nich' Artur came and appeyred in the same corte-house, and theyr shewed a letter of power and auctoryte, of the said cyty. and cytzyens of the same, for to pacyficat and put awave all manner adversitye, rancor and inconvenyens, that have rysen or insurged betwexte the said cytye and the towne of Galway, and betwexte the cytezens and habitauntis of -ohe cyty of Lymeryk, and betwexte the conburgens of Galweye and habitantes of the same : and speciallye, as touchinge the matter clependinge betwexte David Oomen, of Lymeryke, cytezen, and the towne of Galweye, for oerteyne travers mattyer towchinge a bargayrie of salte, the which bargayne David Comen alleginge for hym that he cowde have no ryght ministreth to hym in the said towne of (.';)'— eve. Wherefore the said David attached, rested and rainesomed one named Ambrose Lynch Fitz-James, merchante, of the said towne of Gallweye, for the which tachein and rainsomynge, arose and insurgede gerate inconvenyencys betwexte tehe said citye and the town of Gallweye. Whearfore, in consideration, and augmentacon, and fortyfynge traunquylytye, and of reaste and peace, and concordable amytye and friendshipp, betwexte the said cytye and the town of Gallweye, the said mayr. ballyves, conburgens and comers of Gallweye in the said courte house, with one assente elected and chosed Walter and Anthonye Lynche Fitz-Thomas, arbytratours to be assocyate with the said Chrystofor and Nich' Arthure, yn the towne of Galweye, ys behalfe, to the augmentacon, paeificanon of a perpetuall peace and "concorde betwexte the cytye of .Lyn.ryk, for the said matter, and the towne of Galweye.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 71

As the companion tells it

On the seventh of May 1524, in the courthouse of Galway, before Mayor Stephyne Lynch Fitz-Domynycke, a peace treaty was signed between Galway and Limerick. John Fallon and John French were bailiffs that year, and they and the burgesses of Galway gathered with representatives from Limerick. Christopher Arthur and Nicholas Arthur came into the courthouse carrying a letter of authority from the city and citizens of Limerick. Their purpose was to pacify and put away all adversity, rancour, and inconvenience that had risen between the two towns. The trouble centred on David Comen, a citizen of Limerick. He had made a bargain of salt, and claimed he could get no right or justice administered to him in Galway. In response, David Comen attached, arrested, and ransomed a man named Ambrose Lynch Fitz-James, a merchant of Galway. That seizing and ransoming caused great inconvenience to rise between the two towns. So the mayor, bailiffs, burgesses, and commons of Galway, all with one assent, chose Walter Lynch Fitz-Thomas and Anthony Lynch Fitz-Thomas as arbitrators. They were to associate with Christopher and Nicholas Arthur, the Limerick men, for the augmenting and pacifying of a perpetual peace and concord between Limerick and Galway. The document itself opens with the words, "In the name of Gode, Amen," and gives its date as the sixteenth year of the reign of King Henry the Eighth.

Articles of surrender for the town of Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1651–1652

The articles of agreement between the forces of the Parliament of the Commonwealth of England and the inhabitants of Galway provide terms for the town's surrender. Freemen—defined as native merchants, inhabitants, and tradesmen—are granted six months to depart with their goods if they wish, or to remain under protection.

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III. It is concluded and agreed upon, by and between the said parties, that all persons, of what quality soever, comprehended within the said articles, shall have six months time to departe (if they desire it) with their goods to any parte of this nation, or beyond the seas ; and that they shall have effectual passes for themselves and their goods, and shall be protected in the meane time, and have liberty to sell their estates and goods, provided that amunicon and all armes (save travailing armes, which they may carry with them), and other furniture of warr, be not in^uded in this article.
IV. It is concluded and agreed upon, by and between the said parties, that the clergymen now in Gallway shall have liberty to continue there six months after the conclusion of this treaty, and shall have effectuall passes (when they desire it within that time) for themselves, and the goods properly belonging to them, to go beyond seas, provided that during that time they act nothing prejudiciall to the state of England ; and likewise that the names of all such clergymen shall be made known to the lord president before the surrender of the said towne; and that all manner of persons, of what quality soever, according to the exposition of the second article , that have indemynity for all past offences, criminal and capitall, acts and offences done in the prosecucon of this warr, from the 23rd of October, 1641, untill the conclusion of this treaty (except Brian Roe Mahon More, Stephen Lynch, Dominick Kirwan and Walter Martin, who had their hands immediately in the effusion of the blood of captain Clark's men, and such other person or persons as shall be hereafter found by good proofs to have had their immediate hands in any particular murther of the English or pro-

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 276

As the companion tells it

Galway in 1651 and 1652. The forces of the Parliament of the Commonwealth of England had come to terms with the people of the town. The articles of surrender were drawn up and agreed upon between the two sides. All persons, of whatever quality, comprehended within the articles, were given six months to depart if they desired it, with their goods, to any part of the nation or beyond the seas. They were to have effectual passes for themselves and their goods, and were to be protected in the meantime. They had liberty to sell their estates and goods. But ammunition and all arms, save travelling arms which they might carry with them, and other furniture of war, were not included in this article. The clergymen then in Galway were granted liberty to remain there six months after the conclusion of the treaty, and were to have effectual passes when they desired it within that time, for themselves and the goods properly belonging to them, to go beyond the seas, provided that during that time they acted nothing prejudicial to the state of England. The names of all such clergymen were to be made known to the lord president before the surrender of the town. All manner of persons, of whatever quality, were to have indemnity for all past offences, criminal and capital, acts and offences done in the prosecution of the war, from the 23rd of October 1641 until the conclusion of the treaty. But there were exceptions. Brian Roe Mahon More, Stephen Lynch, Dominick Kirwan, and Walter Martin were excluded. They had their hands immediately in the effusion of the blood of Captain Clark's men. And such other persons as should be hereafter found by good proofs to have had their immediate hands in any particular murder of the English were excluded too.

Battle of Athenry: slaughter of Connaught nobility

Athenry · town · Galway

Richard de Bermingham, called by the Irish 'Richard of the battles,' won multiple engagements against the natives including the battle of Athenry, in which the king of Connaught, O'Kelly king of Maine, and most of the nobility of Connaught and Munster were slain.

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29 This nobleman was the fourth baron in descent from William de Bermingham, who accompanied Strongbow to Ireland. He was one of the principal conquerors of Connaught, and was called by the Irish Risdeard-na-geath, i.e., Richard of the battles, from the many engagements by him fought, and won from tlie natives, viz. the battle of Togher. the battle of Finlo and the battle of Athenry, in which the king of Connaught, O'Kelly king of Maneach, and most of the nobility of Connaught and Munster. (called in those days petty kings of the territories thev possessed.) were slain. — - 1 Vol, MSS. Pedigrees, Office of Arms.
MiSTORY OF GAL WAY.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 51

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here at Athenry in Galway, one of the bloodiest clashes of the Norman conquest took place. Richard de Bermingham, the fourth baron descended from William de Bermingham who came to Ireland with Strongbow, was called by the Irish Risdeard-na-geath, meaning Richard of the battles, for the many fights he won against the natives. He won the battle of Togher and the battle of Finlo, and then the battle of Athenry, where the king of Connaught, O'Kelly king of Maneach, and most of the nobility of Connaught and Munster were slain. These men were called petty kings of the territories they possessed.

Catholic corporation in Galway continues elections in secret

Galway · city · Galway

After the Reformation shifted the official corporation to Protestants, Catholic inhabitants of Galway continued to annually assemble in private to elect their own mayor, bailiffs, sheriffs, and other officers. These were nominal offices maintained chiefly to preserve the succession of Catholic wardens and vicars.

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Edward VI., so those of the Catholic persuasion were uniformly elected under the bull of pope Innocent VIII. This instrument, it will be recollected, vested the power of election in the mayor and bailiffs, or equals of the town, for ever. On the change of religion, when the corporation become vested in the members of the Protestant faith, the Catholic inhabitants still continued annually to assemble (but in a private manner, to avoid persecution), and regularly elected their own mayor, bailiffs, sheriffs, and other corporate officers. These were, however, but merely nominal officers; and they appear to have been continued solely for the purpose of preserving the succession of the Catholic wardens and vicars. This anomalous proceeding was soon questioned by the Catholic archbishops of Tuam, who claimed a controlling power when the corporation was changed, and they denied the competency of the self-formed body, styling itself a Catholic corporation, to act under the pope's authority. The town's-people, however, who at all times were particularly jealous of any encroachment on their ecclesiastical rights, invariably resisted the interference of the see of Tuam, which afterwards occasioned several disputes between them, as will appear in the sequel. In the year 1620 James Fallon was elected warden by the Catholic corporation, upon which he wrote to the archbishop, " that, though I am well satisfied of the particular privileges granted to the town, and that the confirmation does belong to the body of the colledge, still, to avoid scruples, I thought it very convenient, in person, to ask confirmation from your grace's vicar, which he would not grant unless he. had a general petition from the town; but this they refused, for fear it would diminish in the least their privileges, and so go to the Protestant archbishop, and be lost." He then added : " The people of this town are so stedjast in the matter, that, /or all the clergy in Ireland, they would not lose one atom of their privileges." — The question terminated here for the present; but the warden and town's-people, to prevent similar claims for the future, procured in 1635 a confirmatory grant from the then pope, Urban VIII. This instrument, the then archbishop of Tuam asserted, was obtained surreptitiously, and immediately after, in 1637, he revived the claim, on the ground " that the wardenship was not exempt from the ordinary's visitation, or from paying him a synodicum." The warden, on the contrary, insisted " that his collegiate church was ecclesia insignis collegiata et exempta ah ordinaria jurisdictione " ; but to this the archbishop replied ' ' that he deceived himself by attributing to his own those privileges which he found to have been granted to collegiate churches, haheniis jurisdictionem episcopalem, Vel quasi episcopalem, of which his is not, ut patet legenti ejus privilegia, quce sunt restringenda et non amplianda." — These ecclesiastical disputes here ceased for awhile, but were renewed with greater warmth than ever after the restoration of the Catholic corporation in 1643.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 201

As the companion tells it

In Galway, after the Reformation handed the official corporation to Protestants, the Catholic inhabitants kept electing their own mayor, bailiffs, sheriffs, and other officers. They did it in private, to avoid persecution. The offices were nominal. They existed chiefly to preserve the succession of Catholic wardens and vicars, under a bull of Pope Innocent VIII that had vested the power of election in the mayor and bailiffs of the town. The Catholic archbishops of Tuam soon questioned this. They claimed a controlling power once the corporation changed, and denied that a self-formed body calling itself a Catholic corporation could act under the pope's authority. The townspeople, jealous of any encroachment on their ecclesiastical rights, resisted the interference of the see of Tuam. In 1620, James Fallon was elected warden by the Catholic corporation. He wrote to the archbishop that he was well satisfied with the town's particular privileges, and that confirmation belonged to the body of the college. To avoid scruples, he asked confirmation in person from the archbishop's vicar, who would not grant it without a general petition from the town. The town refused, fearing it would diminish their privileges and go to the Protestant archbishop and be lost. Fallon added that the people were so steadfast in the matter that, for all the clergy in Ireland, they would not lose one atom of their privileges. To prevent similar claims, the warden and townspeople procured a confirmatory grant from Pope Urban VIII in 1635. The archbishop of Tuam asserted this was obtained surreptitiously, and in 1637 revived his claim that the wardenship was not exempt from the ordinary's visitation or from paying him a synodicum. The disputes ceased for a while, but renewed with greater warmth after the restoration of the Catholic corporation in 1643.

Claddagh's elected mayor and self-governance

Claddagh · electoral division · Galway

The Claddagh colony was ruled from time immemorial by one of their own body, periodically elected with the title of mayor, who settled fishery disputes with such authority that parties rarely sought legal tribunals. They neither understood nor troubled themselves about politics.

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Internal Regulations. This colony from time immemorial has been ruled by one of their own body, periodically elected, who somewhat resembles the Brughaid or head villager of ancient times, when every clan resided in its hereditary canton. This individual, who is dignified with the title of mayor, in imitation of the head municipal officer of the town, regulates the community according to their own peculiar laws and customs, and settles all their fishery disputes. His decisions are so decisive and so much re-speeted that the parties are seldom known to carry their differences before a legal tribunal, or to trouble the civil magistrates. They neither understand nor trouble themselves about politics consequently ill the most turbulent

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 235

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Claddagh in Galway, you are near an old fishing colony that from time immemorial was ruled by one of their own body, periodically elected. He bore the title of mayor, in imitation of the head municipal officer of the town, and regulated the community according to their own peculiar laws and customs. He settled all their fishery disputes, and his decisions were so decisive and respected that the parties were seldom known to carry their differences before a legal tribunal or trouble the civil magistrates. They neither understood nor troubled themselves about politics.

Corn ships lost near Aran Islands during Galway blockade

near Aran Islands · island or archipelago · Galway · 1651

Two vessels laden with corn attempted to reach Galway harbour but were pursued by parliamentary frigates. One was captured and the other was forced onto rocks near the Aran Islands and lost, worsening the town's food scarcity.

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the face of affairs. Being in a state of strict blockade, and provisions beginning to grow scarce, about eighty of the inhabitants went privately out of the town, and seizing one hundred head of cattle, designed to drive them in, but being met on their return by a party of the enemy, upwards of sixty were killed, and the cattle retaken. This disappointment was followed by another much greater; for two vessels laden with corn, endeavouring to get into the harbour, were pursued by two parliamentary frigates, who took one, and forced the other on the rocks, near the islands of Arran, where she was lost.l^ These disasters were considerably heightened by the increased population of the town, which was crowded by multitudes of the nobility, clergy, and other persons of rank and interest in the kingdom, who flocked hither as their last place of refuge and safety. Meetings were frequently held to deliberate upon the state of affairs, at which the marquis of Clanricarde generally presided; and it was at length resolved, when too late, that proposals should be made for a general pacification and settlement of the kingdom. Accordingly dispatches to that effect were sent by the marquis to general Ludlow, on the 14th of February, requiring at the same time, a safe conduct for commissioners to carry on the treaty. To these proposals Ludlow, on the 24th, returned a vague and indefinite answer, merely informing him that the settlement of the nation belonged to the parliament, who he was assured would not capitulate with those who ought to be in submission, and stood in opposition to their authority; but "if the Lord inclined their hearts to submission, such moderate terms would be consented to, as men in their condition could reasonably expect." The submission here intimated may easily be conceived to have meant little less than an absolute surrender of their lives and liberties to the mercy of the besiegers. The great council (as they were still called) again assembled within the town, and resolved to propose a cessation of arms, and demand a licence for commissioners to repair to the parliament in England. These proposals having been also rejected, 18 the principal part of the nobility and

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 106

As the companion tells it

In 1651, Galway was under strict blockade, and provisions were beginning to grow scarce. About 80 inhabitants slipped out privately and seized 100 head of cattle, meaning to drive them back in, but on their return they were met by a party of the enemy. Upwards of 60 were killed, and the cattle retaken. That disappointment was followed by another much greater. 2 vessels laden with corn, endeavouring to get into the harbour, were pursued by 2 parliamentary frigates, who took 1, and forced the other on the rocks near the Aran Islands, where she was lost. These disasters were heightened by the increased population of the town, crowded with multitudes of the nobility, clergy, and other persons of rank who had flocked there as their last place of refuge. Meetings were frequently held, with the marquis of Clanricarde generally presiding. It was at length resolved, when too late, that proposals should be made for a general pacification and settlement of the kingdom. The marquis sent dispatches to that effect to general Ludlow on the 14th of February, requiring a safe conduct for commissioners to carry on the treaty. Ludlow, on the 24th, returned a vague and indefinite answer, merely informing him that the settlement of the nation belonged to the parliament, who would not capitulate with those who stood in opposition to their authority. He added that "if the Lord inclined their hearts to submission, such moderate terms would be consented to, as men in their condition could reasonably expect." The great council assembled again within the town and resolved to propose a cessation of arms and demand a licence for commissioners to repair to the parliament in England. These proposals were also rejected.

De Burgo forced to surrender at Limerick

Limerick · city · Limerick · 1198–1200

Cathal Crovdearg, joining with Meiler Fitz-Henry the Justiciary, marched towards Limerick where they forced the powerful chief William de Burgo to surrender and return to his allegiance. This was noted as the first instance in which an Englishman was seen at the head of native Irish troops.

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Roderic O'Conor, the last of the Irish monarchs, died in Cong, where he had lived in retirement for the last twelve years of his life. Immediately after his death, William Fitz-Andelm made every preparation to assert his claim to Connaught, and with an intention of making Cathal Carragh O'Conor, who had views on the throne, subservient to his designs, he joined with him, routed Crovdear.g, and the confederate troops of Ulster and Meath, and established Carragh : but not finding him so obedient to his wishes as he had expected, he soon after declared against him, and joining with Crovdearg, they defeated Carragh, who was slain in the field, and his death led to the restoration of his more fortunate rival. The power and fame of De Bur go now became so extensive, that he openly declared himself independent of the crown of England; made Limerick the seat of his power, determined on war and peace at pleasure, and was both feared and hated as well by the English as by the Irish chieftains. Cathal Crovdearg, who experienced his changeable disposition, was obliged again to
50 HISTORY OF GAL WAY .

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 45

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Limerick. Around 1198 to 1200, it was the seat of power for William de Burgo, a chief so strong that he openly declared himself independent of the crown of England. He made Limerick his base, determined on war and peace at pleasure, and was feared and hated as well by the English as by the Irish chieftains. Cathal Crovdearg, who had experienced de Burgo's changeable disposition, was obliged to act. He joined with Meiler Fitz-Henry, the Justiciary, and together they marched towards Limerick. There they forced de Burgo to surrender and return to his allegiance. It was noted as the first instance in which an Englishman was seen at the head of native Irish troops. The defeat of de Burgo at Limerick checked a man who had made the city the centre of a power that answered to no one, and brought him back under a crown he had cast off.

Friar guards Galway west bridge during 1798 crisis

Galway · city · Galway · 1798

During the 1798 disturbances, while the town was without military protection, an Augustinian friar stood sentinel on the west bridge of Galway to prevent disaffected persons entering the town, a striking reversal given friars had previously faced transportation or death for appearing there.

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suburbs. The year 1794 was rendered remarkable for the arrival of the Home-ward bound East India fleet. This noble squadron riding at anchor in the bay, and combining with the surrounding scenery, presented a grand and most picturesque appearance, and reminded many old persons, then living, of what they had heard in their youth, concerning the former trade and concourse of shipping to the town. 17 During the troubles which afterwards disturbed the kingdom, the inhabitants of Galway were conspicuous for their peacable demeanour and unshaken loyalty; not an individual suffered for rebellious proceedings; and to their credit be it recorded, that, though their principles were devoted to the constitution of the country," they were free from the vile spirit of political and religious prejudice so prevalent in other parts of the kingdom. The readiness with which the ranks of the militia and the yeomanry corps of volunteers were filled up, afforded convincing proof of the principles of the Catholic inhabitants of Galway. 18 On the landing of the French at Killala, in August, 1798, the gallant and humane general (afterwards lord) Hutchinson commanded in the town; and being, at the time, entirely destitute of resources to enable him to march against the enemy, the merchants, in the space of an hour, made up a sum of fifteen hundred guineas, which they presented him, and by which he was enabled to join general Lake, v/ith the troops under his command to meet the enemy. The town yeomanry also joined their forces, and had their share of the disgraceful defeat at Castlebar. During their absence the town was left without military protection, and the Catholic clergy were indefatigable in their exertions to preserve the public peace. On this occasion, one of the regulars of St. Augustine presented a novel spectacle — a friar standing sentinel on the west bridge, to prevent the entrance of disaffected persons to a place where, within the memory of many then living, he would himself have been doomed to transportation or death for daring to appear or return : thus affording a striking example of the mutability of

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 157

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the road touches a town with a striking 1798 story. The inhabitants were known for their peaceable demeanour and loyalty; not one individual suffered for rebellious proceedings. When the French landed at Killala in August 1798, General Hutchinson commanded in the town but had no resources to march against the enemy. The merchants raised 1,500 guineas in the space of an hour, which let him join General Lake with his troops. The town yeomanry went along too, and had their share of the defeat at Castlebar. With them gone, the town was left without military protection, and the Catholic clergy worked to preserve the public peace. An Augustinian friar stood sentinel on the west bridge to prevent disaffected persons entering the town. The reversal was striking: within the memory of many then living, a friar would have been doomed to transportation or death for daring to appear in that place at all.

Galway by-laws ordering charitable distribution to poor widows

Galway · city · Galway · 1628

In 1628, Galway corporation ordained that collectors of town rents distribute £10 annually among poor widows of Galway birth and blood, citing charity as the town's greatest revenue and blessing.

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May 17. — For as much as the grace of God is the best revenue of this towne, and his blessing our greatest rents ; and that charitable distributions are, according to his divine promise, a hundred folde rewarded, both in this and the other world ; it is ordained, that the collectors of the rents and revenues of this towne shall, once everie year, distribute £10 between the poor widows of the birth and blood of the towne, in imitation of that good widow, commended by our Saviour, who cast her two mites into the treasurye; and in hope, that the supplying the needful exigents of the poor may increase our comings in, and thereby enable us to do works tending to God's glory, and the good of the commonwealth.
Enacted, that stuirdie beggars and poor scholars be banished ; and that such poor and needie men, born in the towne, as shall be allowed to begge, shall have Ieden tokens fastened to their caps, to distinguish them from others. And for as much as divers strangers, and some of the towne, doe keep blind ale-houses, which are the relievers of idlers and malefactors, who, by cheating, cozening, villainies, doe disturbe the quiet and peace of the towne, it is ordered, that the several constables of the several quarters and franchises doe, eveirie quarter session, present the names of such, and of all other persons selling beer, ale, etc. that a certain number of select men may be named and licensed to doe the same.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 175

As the companion tells it

Galway, in 1628, made charity a matter of law. On the 17th of May, the corporation ordained that the collectors of the town's rents and revenues must distribute £10 each year among poor widows of the birth and blood of the town. They said that the grace of God was the best revenue of the town, and his blessing their greatest rents. They called charitable distributions a hundredfold rewarded, in this world and the next. The widows were to be supplied after the example of the widow commended by the Saviour, who cast her two mites into the treasury. The corporation hoped that meeting the needs of the poor would increase the town's own income, and so enable further works tending to God's glory and the good of the commonwealth. The same enactment banished sturdy beggars and poor scholars. Poor men born in the town who were allowed to beg were to have leaden tokens fastened to their caps, to distinguish them from others. Blind ale-houses, called the relievers of idlers and malefactors, were to be reported each quarter by the constables of the several quarters and franchises, so that only a certain number of select men might be licensed to sell beer or ale.

Galway priests imprisoned and banished abroad

Galway · city · Galway · 1655

On 19 November 1655, Coote was ordered to banish priests and friars imprisoned in Galway over forty years of age into France, Portugal, and neighbouring kingdoms, and to ship those under forty to Barbadoes or American plantations. Any returning without licence would be punished with death.

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the most convenient place within the east eitidell of the city of Galway. — 2. Tka+ three platforms be forthwith raised wherever it would be conceived would most tend to the publick service. — 3. That the several houses within the eitidell be repaired.— 4. To keep within the towne twenty Irish masons and workmen ; — and, 5. That the priests or fryars, now imprisoned within the town, that are above the age of forty years, be forthwith banished into France, Portugal, and other neighbouring kingdoms in amity with this commonwealth ; and that the rest of the priests, that are under the age of forty years be forthwith shipt away for Barbadoes or other the American plantations; and to give public notice, that in case any of them return without licence, they shall be proceeded against according to the laws;" — i.e. punished with death.— Id.
On 1st September, 1656, another order issued, "that the governor of the city of Galway do forthwith remove thereout all Irish Papists, and that no Irish be permitted to inhabit therein, unless disabled to remove through extreme old age or sickness, or bed-rid." It was also ordered, " that he should cause the weekly markets to be kept outside the city till further orders."— Id. A. 10. p. 163.'

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 112

As the companion tells it

Galway was the place where, in 1655, priests and friars were held imprisoned in the city. Orders came that those among them over forty years of age were to be banished into France, Portugal, and other neighbouring kingdoms in amity with the commonwealth. The rest, those under forty, were to be shipped away to Barbadoes or the American plantations. Public notice was given that if any of them returned without licence, they would be proceeded against according to the laws, which is to say, punished with death. The next year, on 1 September 1656, another order issued. The governor of Galway was to remove all Irish Papists from the city. No Irish person was to be permitted to inhabit there, unless disabled from removing through extreme old age or sickness, or being bed-ridden. The weekly markets were also ordered to be kept outside the city until further orders. The city was emptied of its people by decree.

Galway's splendid houses seized and ruined by soldiers

Galway · city · Galway · 1655–1656

After the expulsion, Galway presented the appearance of a military camp and soon fell to decay. The superb houses, described in the Annals as 'fit to lodge kings and princes' and the best built and most splendidly furnished in the kingdom, were seized by the lowest of the populace and completely ruined.

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town, and the great intercourse the inhabitants had for many ages with the dominions of the king of Spain, and conceiving it probable that the Spaniard might entertain more than common hopes from that circumstance, under colour of giving succour to the king of Scots," (Charles II.) they accordingly, on the 30th of October, ordered, " that all the Irish and other popish inhabitants should be forthwith removed out of the town, in order that accommodation should be provided for such Eng lish Protestants, whose integrity to the State would entitle them to be trusted in a place of such importance." This order was carried into effect by Coote, the lord president, with unrelenting severity. 26 The wretched inhabitants, without distinction of rank or sex, except a few who were oppressed by sickness and years, were driven out of the town in the midst of winter, (which was, at the time, peculiarly severe,) and were forced to take shelter by the ditches and in poor cabins in the country, without fire or sufficient clothing, in consequence of which many fell victims to the uncommon inclemency of the season. Thus deprived of its inhabitants, who were succeeded only by soldiery, the town presented the appearance of a military camp, without either order or regularity, and soon fell to decay. The superb houses, which, in the language of the Annals, were "fit to lodge kings and princes," and are described as the best built and most splendidly furnished of any in the kingdom, were seized upon and occupied by the lowest of the populace, until they were completely ruined. The

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 112

As the companion tells it

Galway, in the years 1655 and 1656, was a city stripped of its people and given over to soldiers. Because of the town's long intercourse with the dominions of the king of Spain, the authorities feared the Spaniard might lend aid to Charles the Second. On the 30th of October they ordered that all the Irish and other popish inhabitants should be forthwith removed out of the town, so that accommodation could be provided for such English Protestants whose integrity to the State would entitle them to be trusted in a place of such importance. Coote, the lord president, carried this order into effect with unrelenting severity. The wretched inhabitants, without distinction of rank or sex, except a few oppressed by sickness and years, were driven out of the town in the midst of a winter that was at the time peculiarly severe. They were forced to take shelter by the ditches and in poor cabins in the country, without fire or sufficient clothing, and many fell victims to the uncommon inclemency of the season. Thus deprived of its inhabitants, who were succeeded only by soldiery, the town presented the appearance of a military camp, without either order or regularity, and soon fell to decay. The superb houses, which in the language of the Annals were "fit to lodge kings and princes," and are described as the best built and most splendidly furnished of any in the kingdom, were seized upon and occupied by the lowest of the populace, until they were completely ruined.

The history of the town and county of the town of Galway, from the earliest period to the present time (vol. n/a)

The stories, best first

Address to Galway townspeople on poverty and decay

Judge escorts son to execution at eastern extremity of Galway

Rathcruachan, ancient palace of the kings of Connaught

O'Shaughnessy dies in Gort castle after Boyne

Galway soldiers drowned near Dublin, 1644

Great frost, famine and pestilence in Galway

Lynch's hanging of his own son at Dead-man's-lane

Mr. French of Tyrone encounters disguised governor in London

Dominican nuns dispersed again, convent turned into barracks, 1698

O'Shaughnessie surrender and regrant of Gort-Inchigorie lands

Clanteige chief claims ancient custom in Galway

Col. Stubbers seizes and transports Galway people as slaves

Freed Galway slave purchased Rahoon estate from Cromwell officer

Papal nuncio Rinuccini seeks refuge in Galway amid factional turmoil

Spanish Armada wrecks and executions in Galway

Bodkin family tradition in Galway

Galway by-laws on poor widows, beggars and ale-houses

Galway churches and abbeys desecrated by soldiery

Galway siege and capitulation to Sir Charles Coote

Great snow of 1745 devastates livestock and farmland

Mayor of Galway condemns his own son to death

Military raid all convents in Galway (1698)

Murder of Gomez on Galway shore

Plague devastates Galway, killing over 3,700 inhabitants

Sheriffs search Galway friary and report to Lords (1731)

Claddagh herring fishery fleet and admiral system

Defeat and slaughter of the titular archbishop of Tuam at Sligo, 1645

Duelling tradition among Galway's inhabitants

Famine and plague after Galway's surrender

Foundation stone of St. Nicholas collegiate chapel laid in Galway

Franciscan abbey chapel repaired, friars arrested (1724)

Galway surrenders to Cromwell's forces under Sir Charles Coote

Portumna Castle jury defies king's title claim

Winter expulsion of Galway's inhabitants

Partition of Ireland between Con and Eogan, c. 166

Archbishop of Tuam defies nuncio and forces open Galway church doors

Fire of 1500 consumes much of Galway

Galway by-laws ban Irish-style keening at funerals

Theatre in Kirwan's Lane, Galway

Battle near Athenry and defeat of Fedhlim O'Conor

Carmelite friars' dwelling assaulted by night in Galway

Claddagh St. John's Eve procession through Galway

Dispersed Dominican nuns found Dublin convent, 1717

Fish market women resisted relocation to new market

Galway inhabitants killed raiding cattle during blockade

Galway invested and blockaded by Sir Charles Coote

Vast beetle swarm descends on Headford district

Walter Lynch's jealousy at the mayor's house in Galway

Claddagh fishermen destroy company boats in fishing dispute

1524 Peace Treaty between Galway and Limerick

Articles of surrender for the town of Galway

Battle of Athenry: slaughter of Connaught nobility

Catholic corporation in Galway continues elections in secret

Claddagh's elected mayor and self-governance

Corn ships lost near Aran Islands during Galway blockade

De Burgo forced to surrender at Limerick

Friar guards Galway west bridge during 1798 crisis

Galway by-laws ordering charitable distribution to poor widows

Galway priests imprisoned and banished abroad

Galway's splendid houses seized and ruined by soldiers