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

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

1. Mayor Russell ordered to march to Athlone

   Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1686

   Following charges of embezzling and misapplying town revenues, Colonel Russell, the mayor of Galway, was directed not to offer himself as a candidate for the office the next year. He was soon after ordered to march with his regiment to Athlone.

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   After the severe treatment which Roman Catholic inhabitants of the town had, for many years before this period, experienced, it would be expecting more than the nature of man is capable of, (at least in an aggregate body actuated by the mingled feelings of passion, prejudice and revenge,) if they did not, on the present occasion, not only feel elated, but even proceed to lengths which' under other circumstances would be unjustifiable. In the scenes which follow, however, they exercised their newly-acquired power with moderation, compared with the former proceedings of their opponents. Soon after their admission, they informed the lord lieutenant that the revenues of the town were embezzled and misapplied, and offered to prove the fact, if an investigation were ordered. This v/as promised; and the mayor, who was principally concerned in the charge, was directed not to offer himself as a candidate for that office the ensuing year, and he was soon after ordered to march with his regiment to Athlone.7 On the 1st of August, 1686, John Kirwan Fitz-Stephen, (afterwards Sir John Kirwan, of Castlehacket,) a Catholic, was elected mayor for the ensuing year; and the earl of Clanricarde, another, was appointed governor of the town.

   From the accession of James II. Galway and its ancient inhabitants were particularly marked out, as objects of the royal favour and protection. The latter all professed the same religious principles as the king, (for adhering

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 124

   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is Athlone, a town the road takes you through. In 1686 it became the destination of Colonel Russell, the mayor of Galway. The Roman Catholic inhabitants of Galway, after years of severe treatment, had gained new power and used it with what the record calls moderation compared with their opponents. They informed the lord lieutenant that the revenues of the town had been embezzled and misapplied, and offered to prove it if an investigation were ordered. One was promised. The mayor, who was principally concerned in the charge, was directed not to offer himself as a candidate for that office the ensuing year. He was soon after ordered to march with his regiment to Athlone. On the 1st of August, 1686, John Kirwan Fitz-Stephen, a Catholic, later Sir John Kirwan of Castlehacket, was elected mayor for the ensuing year, and the earl of Clanricarde was appointed governor of the town. From the accession of James the Second, Galway and its ancient inhabitants were marked out as objects of royal favour and protection.

2. O'Flahertie territory of Knockbegg surveyed by commission

   Moycullen · town · Galway · 1585

   A commission issued by the lord deputy in 1585 at the instance of Rory O'Flahertie examined the family feuds. It found that the territory of Gnobegg (Knockbegg) was the ancient inheritance of Gilleduff O'Flahertie, whose seat was at Moycullen, and detailed the many towns and lands within that territory.

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   heads of the family, and on 3d July, 1585, the lord deputy, at the instance of Rory O'Flahertie, issued a commission to examine into the causes of these feuds. Upon this occasion it appeared, that the territory of Gnobegg, or Knockbegg, was the ancient inheritance of Gilleduff O'Flahertie, who died seized thereof in his demesne as of fee, and, that he and his sons lived at the Moyculle, and were the O'Flaherties, and governors or chiefs of all the country ; and had services and duties out of every part of Gnobegg ; that he had an elder brother, that had no part or portion of Gnobegg, but had his portion, Gnomore ; that Gnobegg contained the towns of Moycullen, (the chief town in the same,) Clonduff or Cloy duff, Balle Mo. Gellevey, Theowre, Killehahine, Curraghduff, Cossowon or Oosshoone, Barna or Barney, Forbough, Spiddell, Coylrowny or Kylle-Rowe, Moyseragh or Moyaskrogh, Bocarna, Chayry, or Ogharry, Tollokihan or Tulkihan, Ballyquirke, Balleifculgoyrie or Hulgurney, Curcullen or Curculen, Leytermillanie or Letermylany, and Gaerinana, the island of Innyshe Mc. Fryan or Innishe McAtrire, with the lands in or of Connomara, Airdbeara, Ballinlenry or Baliinbury, Balle Ihry or Bade Iwile, and Rynvylehoway or Rynvyleohway : that the said Gnobegg was meared and bounded, from Srawan Icarwan or Srwan-Igravan, north, to Galway, south, saving the libertieis, and so along the river of Alley or Donkelly, west, to Galway, east : that Hugh More McGilleduff was son and heir to the said Mc. Killeduffe, and his best son, and was possessed of all Gnobegg ; and left Hughe Oge O'Flahertie, his son and heir, who died, seized of the said premises : he left them to his son and heir, Moriertagh or Murtagh O'Flahertie ; who left the said Rory, his only son and heir, by his wife, Evelyn ny Kirevan : that said Moriertagh was slain, in the castle of Moycullen. by the sept of Edmund O'Flahertie, viz. Bryan and Donell Crona, and the sept of Moriertagh Reogh, together with four of his sons, and that the said Hug Oge, then O'Flahertie, grandfather to the said Rory, was taken by the murderers ; and with them detained with-

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 42

3. Ormond claims prisage rights against Galway corporation

   Galway · city · Galway · 1584

   In 1584 the earl of Ormond instituted proceedings in the Irish chancery against the Galway corporation to revive prisage claims on wine. The corporation defended itself based on a 1526 Star Chamber decree and Henry VIII's charter exemption but was ultimately defeated.

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   Notwithstanding the turbulence of the times, trade, buildings and improvements were carried out in the town with persevering vigilance and industry. Wine, the principal article of traffic, was imported in vast quantities, on an average, as the annals testify, of from a thousand to fourteen hundred tuns annually. Exemption from prisage contributed not a little to the encouragement of this branch of commerce; but the Ormond family, although worsted in their former endeavours to establish this claim, determined once more to revive it. Accordingly the earl of Ormond, in 1584, instituted proceedings in the chancery of Ireland against the corporation, which they, relying on the decree of the star chamber of England pronounced in their favor, in 1526, and on the exemption from prisage contained in the charter of Henry VIII. most strenuously defended. They were, however, ultimately defeated; and the earl's right to this valuable

   12 Sir Francis 'Berkely had 1000 foot and 50 horse in the town, from whence he marched to Munster to oppose the Spaniards, who landed at Kinsale, on the 23d of September in that year. — Pacat Hib. — In April following, there were but 200 foot left to guard Galway and Athlone. — Morvson, Vol. II.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 80

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, you are in a town where wine was the chief trade in the 1500s, brought in by the thousand tun or more each year. The town's freedom from prisage, a claim on that wine, helped the trade grow, but the earl of Ormond would not let the matter rest. In 1584 he brought proceedings in the Irish chancery against the Galway corporation to revive the claim. The corporation fought back hard, leaning on a 1526 Star Chamber decree in their favour and the exemption written into the charter of Henry VIII. They lost in the end, and the earl's right to this valuable prisage was upheld.

4. Presentation Convent and collegiate chapel established in Galway

   Galway · city · Galway · 1812–1826

   Warden Ffrench's zeal was credited with the establishment of the Presentation Convent in Galway and the construction of a superb collegiate chapel, largely raised through his single exertions. These institutions were aimed at promoting religious education and public morals.

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   of an orphan asylum, for the maintenance, clothing and education of destitute female children. The lay-patrons having soon after resolved not to elect any of the then vicars (who were mostly of non-tribe families) to succeed him as warden, he, at their desire, procured a dispensation from Rome to render eligible three regulars of the town, viz., the reverend John Fallon and the reverend Charles and Edmund Ffrench, two brothers, all of the Dominican order. 13 The latter gentleman was accordingly chosen vicar, and afterwards, on the death of doctor Bodkin, in 1812, was elected to the dignity of warden, a circumstance which occasioned fresh troubles in the town. The other vicars loudly protested against this election, charging die lay-patrons with partiality and injustice. A disunion was accordingly the consequence; the chapter declared the proceedings invalid, refused to confer institution on the newly-elected warden, and finally appealed to the pope, complaining against the innovation of a regular intruding on a secular chapter. Many of the most respectable inhabitants also murmured at these proceedings, the effects of which are not yet entirely over. The election, however, was afterwards, on the 18th June, 1813, confirmed by the pope; and the piety, zeal, and exertions of warden Ffrench, since his accession to the wardenship, justly entitle him to the respect and esteem in which he is so generally held. To his anxiety for the promotion of religious education, and the improvement of public morals, the town is principally indebted for the establishment of that valuable institution, the presentation convent; and the superb collegiate chapel, now erecting, which may be said to have been hitherto raised by his single exertions, will long remain a splendid monument of his zeal for the interests of religion. 14

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 215

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, the Presentation Convent and collegiate chapel trace back to Warden Ffrench. The lay-patrons had resolved not to elect any of the then vicars, who were mostly of non-tribe families, to succeed the warden. At their desire, Edmund Ffrench procured a dispensation from Rome to render eligible three regulars of the town. These were John Fallon, and Charles and Edmund Ffrench, two brothers, all of the Dominican order. Edmund Ffrench was chosen vicar, and afterwards, on the death of Doctor Bodkin in 1812, was elected to the dignity of warden. The occasion brought fresh troubles. The other vicars loudly protested, charging the lay-patrons with partiality and injustice. The chapter declared the proceedings invalid, refused to confer institution on the newly elected warden, and appealed to the pope, complaining against the innovation of a regular intruding on a secular chapter. Many of the most respectable inhabitants also murmured. The election was confirmed by the pope on the 18th of June, 1813. Warden Ffrench's piety, zeal, and exertions justly entitled him to the respect in which he was held. The town is principally indebted to his anxiety for the promotion of religious education and the improvement of public morals for the establishment of the Presentation Convent. The superb collegiate chapel, raised by his single exertions, will long remain a splendid monument of his zeal for the interests of religion.

5. Quay and harbour improvements in Galway

   Galway · city · Galway

   A company of principal merchants commenced improvements along the quays, harbour, and town walls of Galway to accommodate increased shipping and commerce. The works gradually declined and were never completed, possibly suspended due to a destructive fire.

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   About this time a company, formed of the principal merchants, for the purpose of providing more spacious and convenient accommodations for the increase of shipping and commerce, commenced several new improvements along the quays and harbour, and by fort-hill and the fosse which surrounded the town wall : but, though they were bound to complete these undertakings within a limited time, the works gradually declined, and were never brought to perfection. It is probable, however, that they were at first suspended in consequence of a destructive fire that broke out in the east suburbs on the 1st of May, 1619, occasioned by a musket shot unin tentionally fired by some young men, amidst diversions usual on that day, which fell on the thatch of a house, and spreading, raged so violently, that it threatened the entire town with destruction. Trad ition informs us that, shortly prior to this period, a Dutch colony, consisting of forty families, induced by the situation of Galway, proposed to emigrate from Holland and settle in or near the town; that they offered the corporation a sum which would be equivalent to 35,0001. at the present day, for the unfinisVed works above alluded to, and the adjacent ground, on which they were to erect,

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 88

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, you're in a town that once saw its principal merchants form a company to improve the quays, the harbour, and the fortifications around the town wall. They aimed to provide more spacious and convenient accommodations for the growth of shipping and commerce, and they were bound to complete these works within a limited time. But the works gradually declined and were never finished. The likely cause was a destructive fire that broke out in the east suburbs on the 1st of May, 1619. A musket shot, unintentionally fired by some young men during diversions usual on that day, fell on the thatch of a house. The fire spread and raged so violently it threatened the entire town with destruction. Before the fire, tradition says a Dutch colony of forty families, drawn by the situation of Galway, proposed to settle in or near the town. They offered the corporation a sum equivalent to 35,000 pounds for the unfinished works and the adjacent ground, on which they were to erect their own buildings.

6. Sir John Kirwan introduced modern glass windows to Galway in 1689

   Galway · city · Galway · 1689

   Sir John Kirwan was the first to introduce glass windows in modern form in Galway in 1689, replacing the small leaden lattices previously used, many of which still remained at the time of writing.

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   Sir John Kirwan, was the first who, (in 1689,) introduced glass windows, in the modern form, in Galway^ in place_ of the sma- leaden lattices then used, and many of which remain to the present day.

   4 Piers Kirwan Fitzclement, died 17th April, 1618. seized of the lands of Creggan, Lavally, Bally trasny, Leighcarroroe, &c. which he vested in Marcus Blake, Nicholas Lynch Fitz Jonakin, and John Ffrench Fitz Peter, of Galway, merchants, is trustees for his son, Clement Kirwan. — Inq.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 23

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, you are in a city where Sir John Kirwan introduced glass windows in their modern form in 1689. Before that, the houses had small leaden lattices, and many of those older windows were still in place when the record was written.

7. The Gregory rock on Aran shattered by lightning, 1774

   Innismore · street · Dublin · 1774

   A vast mass of granite called the Gregory, which stood on one of the isles of Arran at least 100 feet above sea level, was shattered by lightning in 1774. The bay of Galway was described as originally a granitic mountain that was shattered and swallowed during a great convulsion.

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   western ocean, at the mouth of the bay of Galway, arc stated by our annalists to be the remnants of a high barrier of land which the Atlantic burst over at an early period of the world. — Vide page 5, ante. — The late Mr. Kirwan, in his essay on the primitive state of the globe, says : " The bay of Galway appears to have been originally a granitic mountain, shattered and swallowed," during a great convulsion, which he supposes to have taken place: and adds: "A vast mass of granite, called the Gregory, lately stood on one of the isles of Arran, 100 feet at least above the level of the sea. This was shattered by lightning in 1774." That these islands were inhabited subsequently, to what in reference to them may be called the adjacent mainland, seems very probable. They were anciently overshadowed with wood, of ~ which there are still very evident remains. This circumstance, combined with their retired situation and wild appearance, redered them peculiarly well adapted for the celebration of the pagan rites of the early Irish. The immense cairns, stone monuments, or altars, circles, and other Druidic remains yet to be seen here, shew that these islands were formerly the resort of that famous order of Heathen priests.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 258

   As the companion tells it

   Along here on Innismore, there's a story about a rock called the Gregory. It was a vast mass of granite that stood on one of the isles of Arran, at least 100 feet above the level of the sea. In 1774, lightning shattered it. Mr. Kirwan, in his essay on the primitive state of the globe, described the bay of Galway as "originally a granitic mountain, shattered and swallowed" during a great convulsion. The isles of Arran, at the mouth of the bay, are said by annalists to be remnants of a high barrier of land that the Atlantic burst over at an early period of the world. These islands were once wooded, and their retired situation and wild appearance made them suited to the pagan rites of the early Irish. Druidic remains, cairns, stone monuments, circles, and altars are still to be seen there.

8. Turlough O'Brien destroys Galway again

   Galway · city · Galway · 1149

   In 1149, Turlough O'Brien, king of Munster, invaded Connaught and took and destroyed the town and castle of Galway.

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   Munster himself marched at the head of an army into Connaught, laid waste the places called Ruadhbheitheach and Bealatha; slew Cathal O'Conor, the Righdamhna, or heir apparent to the throne of Connaught, and Giolla na naomh O'Floinn, a chieftain of great power : atfer which, he burned the fortresses of Dunmogh-dhairne and Dunmore, and all the other places of strength in the country. Turlough O'Brien, king of Munster, again, in the year 1149, invaded Connaught, and took and destroyed the town and castle of Galway. These ravages appear to have been soon afterwards repaired, for in 1154, the ships of "Galway Dune'' and of Conmacnamara, were sent upon an expedition to the northern parts of the

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 42

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, the city sits along the road in the west of Connaught. In 1149 Turlough O'Brien, king of Munster, invaded Connaught and took and destroyed the town and castle of Galway. He had come before, marching an army through Connaught, slaying Cathal O'Conor, the heir apparent to the throne, and a powerful chieftain named Giolla na naomh O'Floinn, and burning fortresses across the country. The damage did not last long. By 1154, the ships of Galway were sent on an expedition to the northern parts, so the town had been repaired and was afloat again.

9. Typhus fever hospital established in Galway

   Galway · city · Galway · 1818

   A severe typhus fever epidemic across Ireland in 1818 prompted subscribers to establish a permanent fever hospital in Galway under parliamentary provision. A committee of local gentlemen was elected and their efforts impeded the progress of the disease.

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   The alarming typhus fever, which raged throughout Ireland in the year 1818, caused several individuals to enter into a subscription for the permanent establishment of a fever hospital in Galway, pursuant to the provisions of the act of parliament 54 Geo. III. A committee of gentlemen was accordingly elected, by whose unremitting exertions the progress of the then dreadful malady was impeded .-38 and measures were at the same time adopted which will, it is hoped, for the future prevent any serious effects from a similar visitation.

   3. — Charter School.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 246

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, there's a story from 1818, when an alarming typhus fever raged throughout Ireland. Subscribers here established a permanent fever hospital, under an act of 54 Geo. III, and a committee of gentlemen was elected. Their unremitting exertions impeded the progress of that dreadful malady, and measures were adopted which, it was hoped, would prevent any serious effects from a similar visitation in future.

10. Volunteers reviewed in Galway, Tuam and Loughrea

    Galway · city · Galway · 1779

    The Galway town volunteers were reviewed several times alongside the county volunteers in Galway, Tuam, and Loughrea, by the Earls of Clanricarde and Altamont and Henry Flood as reviewing generals.

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    an example which was generally followed throughout the kingdom. The town volunteers were embodied on the 31st of May, 1779, and amounted to about four hundred well disciplined troops, divided into six battalion and two flank companies. Richard Martin, esq. of Dangan, their first elected colonel, on a rumour of having supported the then administration, was deprived of the command!4; but that highly spirited descendant of the ancient natives of the town, having satisfactorily refuted the accusation, he was reinstated, and afterwards continued in that honourable station during the existence of the corps. They were several times reviewed, with the volunteers of the county, in Galway, Tuam, and Loughrea, by the earls of Clanricarde, and Altamont and the celebrated Henry Flood, successively reviewing generals; and, after preserving the public peace, obeying all the constitutional commands of government, and, at the same time, cooperating in the grand and successful objects of this immortal association, they peaceably laid down the arms which they had voluntarily taken up, and again resumed their station, with honour and applause, amongst their fellow-citizens in society.

    For some years after this period, nothing worthy of observation occurred. No commercial exertions were made, 15 nor were any improvements undertaken. A system of parliamentary electioneering seemed alone to have occupied the public mind; and, although the year 1783 and 1790 became memorable for contested elections both for the town and county, 16 very little appears to have been done to benefit either. The forlorn situation of Galway about this time may be ascertained from a well known melancholy fact, that, until the Catholic bill of 1793, grass frequently grew in many of its public streets I From that period, however, the inhabitants began to exert themselves : the limits of the town were soon extended beyond the walls, and several buildings were erected in the east and west

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 156

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this is a town that in 1779 raised its own volunteer corps. The town volunteers were embodied on the 31st of May that year, and amounted to about 400 well disciplined troops, divided into six battalion and two flank companies. Their first elected colonel was Richard Martin of Dangan. He was deprived of the command on a rumour that he had supported the then administration. But he refuted the accusation and was reinstated, and continued in that honourable station for as long as the corps existed. They were several times reviewed, with the volunteers of the county, in Galway, Tuam, and Loughrea. The reviewing generals were the Earls of Clanricarde and Altamont, and the celebrated Henry Flood, successively. They preserved the public peace, obeyed the constitutional commands of government, and cooperated in the grand and successful objects of this immortal association. Then they peaceably laid down the arms they had voluntarily taken up, and resumed their station, with honour and applause, among their fellow citizens. For some years after, nothing worthy of observation occurred. No commercial exertions were made, nor any improvements undertaken. Parliamentary electioneering seemed alone to occupy the public mind. The years 1783 and 1790 were memorable for contested elections for the town and county, but very little appears to have been done to benefit either. Until the Catholic bill of 1793, grass frequently grew in many of the public streets of Galway. From that period the inhabitants began to exert themselves. The limits of the town were soon extended beyond the walls, and several buildings were erected in the east and west.

11. Warden election process at St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church, Galway

    Galway · city · Galway

    The election of wardens and vicars for the Catholic collegiate church of St. Nicholas in Galway took place at the collegiate chapel, conducted by the sheriffs of the Catholic corporation. Only members of the fourteen ancient tribal families were permitted to vote, with the result transmitted to Rome for papal ratification.

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    given at the time of divine service in the chapel, by order of the sheriffs of the Catholic corporation. At the time appointed the electors assemble at the collegiate chapel, and the business is opened by the sheriffs. The clergyman intended to succeed (who himself seldom appears on the occasion) is then put in nomination, generally by the most respectable of his friends, and if no other be proposed, he is of. course duly elected ; but, in the case of a contest, which not unfrequently occurs, the candidates are proposed and seconded by their respective friends as fit and proper persons to fill the vacant situation of warden or vicar, as the case may be. and a poll is accordingly demanded and proceeded on. On this occasion none but members of the fourteen ancient names and families, or "tribes," are permitted to vote (excepting only such of the other inhabitants as have been admitted to the freedom .of the Catholic corporation) ;„and whether the former are, or ever were, resident or not in the town is immaterial, their suffrages being deemed equally legal. The votes, however, aire cautiously examined ; and. amongst other points of disqualification, illegitimacy in the elector, or any of his ancestors, is esteemed a sufficient ground for rejection. On the close of the poll,, the sheriffs declare the candidate who appears to have the majority of the votes duly elected, and the proceedings are accordingly entered in, the council-book of the corporation. The next step that remains is the presentation of the person elected : that of a warden is made to the vicars for institution, and that of a vicar to the warden for induction, which, if no legal impediment interferes, generally follows; and, in the case of a warden, a brief of the entire proceeding is finally transmitted to Rome, to be ratified by the Pope.

    Form of a Warden's presentation, to which

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 212

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this city was once the setting for a remarkable election ritual at the collegiate chapel of St. Nicholas. The sheriffs of the Catholic corporation opened the proceedings at the appointed time, during divine service. The clergyman intended to succeed seldom appeared himself. Instead, his friends put him in nomination, and if no one else was proposed, he was duly elected. But contests were not uncommon. When they occurred, candidates were proposed and seconded by their respective friends, and a poll was demanded. Only members of the fourteen ancient families, the tribes, were permitted to vote, though anyone admitted to the freedom of the Catholic corporation could also cast a ballot. Whether a tribal voter lived in Galway or not was immaterial, their vote was equally legal. The votes were cautiously examined, and illegitimacy in the elector or any of his ancestors was sufficient grounds for rejection. The sheriffs declared the candidate with the majority elected, and the result was entered in the corporation's council book. A warden's election was then presented to the vicars for institution, a vicar's to the warden for induction. Finally, in the case of a warden, a brief of the entire proceeding was transmitted to Rome, to be ratified by the Pope.

12. 1795 Papal decree published in Galway parish chapel

    Galway · city · Galway · 1795

    A further decree from Rome, issued 11 May 1795 and confirmed by the Pope, was published on 28 July in the parish chapel of Galway by the warden and vicars. The lay-patrons immediately protested the clause confirming the warden during the pleasure of the congregation, and on 1 August re-elected Warden Joyes, but the chapter refused to institute him.

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    Tliu cc n<,'i «g;uon at Home, finding thai no appeal 1 ad been lodged under their decree, pronounced another on 11th May, 1 ':-;,•). to the following effect :— "EEmi panes consueruntremanendum esse in decisis ab hac S. C, etc., partes autem cum jura sua nondum protulerint, praefigendurn esse iidem peremptorium unius anni termidum ab hac die incipiendi a prae. dicta jura deducenda; et interim, per o. !u in provisionis, in Wardianum R. !» Joannem Joyes esse confirmandum, prout cofkmant in munere wardianatus, quo fungitur, ad beneplacitum ejusdem S. Congregation^ ac S. Sedis." — This decrep was afterwards confirmed by the pope ; and having been published on 28th July following by the warden and vicars in the parish chapel, the lay-patrons immediately protested against that part of it which declared that the warden was confirmed during the pleasure of the sacred congregation (the words "holy see" were omitted), and, on 1st August, (re-elected warden Joyes ; but the chapter refused to institute him, assigning as their reason "that the warden having been previously appointed by the holy see at will, they could not institute him, there being no

    vacancy." Upon this the Catholic corporation again assembled, and "solemnly'' protested against this refusal, and the reason given for it, as illegal and unjust to a high degree." — Orig. MS.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 213

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this is the city where, on 28 July 1795, the warden and vicars published a decree from Rome in the parish chapel. The decree, issued 11 May that year and confirmed by the Pope, confirmed Warden John Joyes in his office, but during the pleasure of the sacred congregation. The lay-patrons immediately protested that clause, and on 1 August they re-elected Warden Joyes themselves. The chapter refused to institute him, saying that since the warden had already been appointed by the Holy See at will, there was no vacancy to fill. The Catholic corporation then assembled and solemnly protested this refusal, calling it illegal and unjust to a high degree.

13. Archbishop of Tuam flees castle for Galway fort

    Tuam · town · Galway · 1641

    The consternation in Galway increased when the archbishop of Tuam deserted his castle and fled for refuge to the fort, coinciding with the treacherous capture of Clanricarde's castle of Aghnenure by young O'Flaherty.

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    Ulick, the fifth earl of Clanricarde, governor, for life, of the town and county of Galway, having fortunately returned to Ireland in the summer of 1641, was then at his castle of Portumna.37 As soon as he heard of the troubles, he took every precaution for the security of the county. On the 28th October he dispatched messengers to Galway, to Sir Richard Blake, with an account of the breaking out of the rebellion, and directions that the town should be most strict and vigilant in its watch and guards. This information was immediately communicated to the mayor and council : arms and ammunition, with which they were but badly provided, were supplied : orders were issued to strengthen the town gates where they were weak and defective, and the guards and watches were doubled. On the 6th of November his lordship arrived; he remained two days, during which time he put the town and fort in the best possible posture of defence, augmented the two companies of the latter to two hundred men, and directed the mayor and corporation to furnish it with provisions, with which it was but indifferently stored; and, to provide for his own company in Loughrea, he took out of the store-house one hundred firelocks and as manj pikes; but more than half of these, upon trial, was found unserviceable The consternation of the town was considerably increased by the archbishop of Tuam deserting his castle, and flying for refuge to the fort, and the subsequent treacherous surprisal of lord Clanricarde's castle of Aghnenure, in Iar-Connaught, by young Morough-na-ciuoh O'Flaherty On the 11th, a general assembly was convened in the tholsel; and it was. amongst other things, unanimously resolved : "that to the last man the said town of Galway would lose their blood and lives in his majesty's service, in the defence, and for the safety of the said fort and town." The fort was furnished with one hundred pecks of wheat, fifty pounds worth of timber and other necessaries, all which were to be paid for upon the restoration of tranquility in the kingdom.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 94

14. Athy family erected first stone house in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway

    Tradition holds that a member of the Athy family built the first stone house or castle within Galway. The family held significant offices, including William de Athy, appointed treasurer of Connaught in 1388, and John de Athy, who served as sheriff of Kerry and later of Carrickfergus and Antrim.

    Read the passage

    This family is of great antiquity in Gal way; tradition relates that one of the name erected the first stone house or castle within the town. They were from the earliest times highly respectable, William de Athy was appointed treasurer of Connaught, 8th December, 1388, with the fee of £10 yearly — Rot. Pat. Cane. — fhe name was also of conequence in other parts of Ireland. John de Athy was sheriff of Kerry, 7th Edw. II. — Rot. Mem. Scac. — on 3d March, 17th of the same King, he was appointed marshall of Ireland — Eod. de an. 18°' — and the 20th year, he was sheriff of the counties of Carrickfergus and Antrim. — Rot. Pat. — Philip Lynch Athy, Esq. of Renville, is the present representative of this family.

    Arms. Cheeky, argent and gules, on a chevron of the last, three etoiles, or. Crest. A demi lion rampant. Motto. Ductus non coactus.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 14

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the oldest stone building tradition here belongs to the Athy family. They were of great antiquity in the town, and tradition relates that one of the name erected the first stone house or castle within it. The family held significant offices. William de Athy was appointed treasurer of Connaught on the 8th of December 1388, with a yearly fee of £10. John de Athy served as sheriff of Kerry in the 7th year of Edward the Second, then as marshall of Ireland on the 3rd of March in the 17th year of the same king, and as sheriff of the counties of Carrickfergus and Antrim in the 20th year. The family motto runs, "Ductus non coactus" — led, not compelled.

15. Burial ground at Augustinian abbey enclosed, 1811

    Galway · city · Galway · 1811

    The burial ground at the Augustinian abbey in Galway extended beyond its ancient limits, and the proprietor of the adjoining ground enclosed it with a stone wall and erected a handsome gate in August 1811 at the expense of Robert Hedges Eyre as a mark of respect for the town's inhabitants.

    Read the passage

    The burial-place extending daily beyond its ancient limits, the proprietor of the adjoining ground inclosed it with a stone wall, and erected a handsome gate at the entrance with the following inscription : "This Burial-ground inclosed at the expense of Robert Hedges Eyre, Esq. as a mark of his respect and esteem for the inhabitants of the town of Galway. m August, 1811."

    31 In 1731 the mayor reported that the sheriffs "searched the reputed friairy in Back-street, called the Augustinian friary, wherein there was a chapel, with forms, but the altar and pictures taken down ; and within which said reputed friary there are seven chambers and nine beds, wherein they apprehend the friars used to lie, but could not find or discover any of the said friars ; which said house, they believe, was converted to a friary many years ago, and before the reign of king Gecn-ge I." — Com. Jour,

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard

    As the companion tells it

    In Galway, the burial ground at the Augustinian abbey had been spreading beyond its old limits. In August 1811 the proprietor of the adjoining ground enclosed it with a stone wall and put up a handsome gate at the entrance. The inscription reads, "This Burial-ground inclosed at the expense of Robert Hedges Eyre, Esq. as a mark of his respect and esteem for the inhabitants of the town of Galway. August, 1811." The abbey itself had been watched long before. In 1731 the mayor reported that sheriffs searched the reputed friary in Back-street, called the Augustinian friary. They found a chapel with forms, but the altar and pictures had been taken down. Within it were seven chambers and nine beds, where they believed the friars used to lie, but they could not find or discover any of the friars.

16. Castle of Clare-Galway taken during siege of Galway

    Claregalway · town · Galway · 1651

    The castle of Clare-Galway was among the strongholds captured by parliamentary forces as they invested Galway in 1651. Its fall was part of the systematic reduction of defensive positions surrounding the town.

    Read the passage

    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

17. Castle of Dunlo near Ballinasloe built

    Ballinasloe · town · Galway · 1124

    In 1124, alongside the castle of Galway, the castle of Dunlo near Ballinasloe was built. Turlogh O'Connor also later built bridges at Athlone and Dunlo.

    Read the passage

    11 Annals of Innisf alien and Lynch' s MSS. — In the same year were built, the castles of Dunlo, near Ballinasloe, and Cuii-maol, alias Guildony, in the county of Sligo ; and Turlogh O'Connor, monarch of Ireland, (who succeeded in 1130,) soon after built three bridges in Connaught, viz. Athlone, Athcrochta over the Shannon, and Dunlo, upon the river Suck. — Onn. Inisf.

    12 The heads of this ancient and noble Irish family were, from the earliest period, Toparchs of lar, or western Connaught, and they long struggled, with various success, against the power of the English. There appears frequent entries on the records during the reigns of Hen. III. and Edw. I. II. III. of Donachad

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 42

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballinasloe, you are near the site of the castle of Dunlo, built in 1124. The castle of Dunlo, near Ballinasloe, was raised that year, along with another castle at Cuil-maol in the county of Sligo. Soon after, Turlogh O'Connor, monarch of Ireland, who succeeded in 1130, built three bridges in Connaught, at Athlone, Athcrochta over the Shannon, and Dunlo upon the river Suck.

18. Cavalry skirmish at Kilcolgan

    Kilcolgan · townland · Galway · 1691

    Colonel Lutterel's cavalry party, attempting to approach and assist Galway, was met by a body of cavalry posted at Kilcolgan and forced to retire.

    Read the passage

    While these preparations were making for the siege, the town was equally active in preparing for defence. The French began to repair the fortified works on the hill; the town's-people were employed on the fort, near the south-east corner of the wall; several strong works were thrown up to defend the east gate, and all the cabins and hedges round the suburbs were levelled. Within the walls eight guns were planted on the upper citadel; near it was a platform of six, and eight or ten more were raised at the south-east corner. Upon the turret, which stood towards the middle of the long curtain that extended next the bay, there were two, and on the side next the river five more, which, with those planted towards the west and north, made about fifty pieces of canon. Many of these, however, were old and ill-mounted; some of the best guns belonging to the town having been shortly before taken away for other urgent services, and several fine brass pieces lay dismountd and useless in the streets. Although there was a considerable store of provisions, a great quantity of meal, salt, and other additional supplies, was brought from the shipping in the bay. Before the movement of the army towards the town commenced, a party of horse, commanded by the famous colonel Lutterel, attempting to approach and assist the town, was met by a body of cavalry posted at Kilcolgan. and forced to retire. The Irish commanders also attempted to throw in reinforcements across the bay from the county of Clare; but upon the appearance of captain Morgan, with a party under his command, they were prevented, after a skrimish in which three or four of their men were killed and eight taken prisoners. These disappointments, however, did not dishearten the town but rather stimulated all its exertions, and every preparation was made to defend it to the last extremity. I5

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in 1691, Colonel Lutterel led a party of horse trying to reach and assist Galway, which was preparing for siege. The townspeople and the French had been busy repairing fortifications and planting around 50 cannon on the walls and citadel, though many of the guns were old and ill-mounted. Before the army moved on the town, Lutterel's cavalry was met by a body of cavalry posted at Kilcolgan and forced to retire. It was one of several efforts to aid the town that came to nothing. The Irish commanders also tried to throw reinforcements across the bay from County Clare, but Captain Morgan appeared with a party of his own and stopped them after a skirmish that left 3 or 4 men dead and 8 taken prisoner. These setbacks did not dishearten Galway but rather pushed the defenders to prepare to hold out to the last extremity.

19. Charter of Charles II regarding Galway Corporation and Theodorus Russell

    Galway · city · Galway · 1677

    A charter from King Charles II confirms the rights of the mayor, sheriffs, and free burgesses of Galway, requiring them to satisfy debts owed to Theodorus Russell. It mandates that Russell may be elected mayor in succession until his sums and engagements are fully satisfied.

    Read the passage

    trouble undergone on the behalfe and for the good of that corporation ; and from and after such satisfaction of the sumes aforesaid to the said Theodorus Russell, his heires and assignes, the saM charter, markett and petty duties and customes of the said towre to remaine to the said mayor, sheriffs, free burgesses and commonaltie of the said towne, and their successors, to such uses whereunto the same were by any former charter of the said towne granted or designed. AND our further wiJl and pleasure is, and wee doe hereby will and require our lieutenant, deputy, and every other, our chiefe governor and goevrnours of our said realme of Ireland, and our privy councill there, for the tyme being, that they, and every of them, doe take care that the said mayor, sheriffs, free burgesses and commonaltie of our said towne of Gallway, and theire successors, doe duely and truely observe, performe, fulfill and keepe the severall articles and agreements by them made with us for satisfying the said Theodorus Russell in manner as aforesaid, and that they pursue all fitting meanes for his securitie, and keepe him in the quitftt and full possession of the said duties and customes, either by an annual electing of him into the office or place of mayor of the said corporation, in succession, untill he be satisfied all and singular the aforesaid sumes and engagements, or otherwise by such other reasonable or fitting wayes and meanes as they shall judge to be most expedient and conducing to the end and purposes aforesaid.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 302

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in a city whose corporation was reshaped by a charter from King Charles II in 1677. The charter confirmed the rights of the mayor, sheriffs, and free burgesses of the town, but with a striking condition: they owed debts to a man named Theodorus Russell, and until those sums were fully paid, Russell was to be kept in quiet and full possession of the town's duties and customs. The king required his lieutenant, deputy, and privy council in Ireland to ensure the corporation honoured its agreements with Russell. One way to secure him was to elect him as mayor year after year, in succession, until every sum owed was satisfied. Only then would the charter, market duties, and customs return to the mayor, sheriffs, free burgesses, and commonalty of the town, to the uses for which any former charter had granted them. The charter records that this trouble was undertaken, as it says, on behalf and for the good of that corporation.

20. Contested parliamentary elections, Galway, 1783 and 1790

    Galway · city · Galway · 1783–1790

    Contested elections for both the town and county of Galway took place in 1783 and 1790. The 1783 county contest lasted fifty-two days with Denis Daly of Dunsandle and William Power Keating Trench of Garbally returned as elected.

    Read the passage

    For some years after this period, nothing worthy of observation occurred. No commercial exertions were made, 15 nor were any improvements undertaken. A system of parliamentary electioneering seemed alone to have occupied the public mind; and, although the year 1783 and 1790 became memorable for contested elections both for the town and county, 16 very little appears to have been done to benefit either. The forlorn situation of Galway about this time may be ascertained from a well known melancholy fact, that, until the Catholic bill of 1793, grass frequently grew in many of its public streets I From that period, however, the inhabitants began to exert themselves : the limits of the town were soon extended beyond the walls, and several buildings were erected in the east and west

    with a test that the aforesaid articles are same period, by some of the most mcon-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 156

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you're in a city that in the 1780s was consumed by parliamentary electioneering. Contested elections for both the town and county took place in 1783 and 1790. The 1783 county contest dragged on for 52 days, ending with Denis Daly of Dunsandle and William Power Keating Trench of Garbally returned as elected. Yet the source notes that "very little appears to have been done to benefit either." Galway was in a sorry state at this time. Until the Catholic bill of 1793, grass grew in many of its public streets. After that, the inhabitants began to exert themselves, the town extended beyond its walls, and buildings went up to the east and west.

21. Coote proposes conditions to Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1651

    At the beginning of December, Coote offered the same surrender conditions to Galway that had previously been offered to Limerick, but the citizens of Galway declined the treaty and hostilities resumed.

    Read the passage

    in the bay, and went to France. Before any further negociation could take place, Ireton died in Limerick, of the plague, on the 29th of November, and was succeeded in command by lieutenant-general Ludlow. On the death of this "gloomy republican," a monetary gleam of hope passed over the desponding minds of the inhabitants of Galway, and they again determined on the most vigorous resistance. About the beginning of December Coote again proposed the conditions offered to Limerick, but they declined the treaty. Hostilities warmly commenced, and continued with various success on both sides, until some reverses experienced by the town changed

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 106

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this is the city that in December 1651 refused to surrender. Ireton had died of plague in Limerick on the 29th of November, and his death brought what the source calls a monetary gleam of hope to the people of Galway. They chose vigorous resistance. Coote then proposed the same conditions that had been offered to Limerick, but the citizens declined the treaty. Hostilities broke out and continued with varying success until the town suffered reverses.

22. Customs revenue diverted to subdue the Irish near Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1427–1442

    On 20th May 1427, Sir Ulick de Burgo and his brother received an order for twenty marks and forty pounds out of the customs of the town of Galway, paid to enable him to reduce the Irish. In 1442, William Bourke was granted money for services enabling the king's collectors to collect customs in the port of Galway.

    Read the passage

    During this century the town extended considerably in trade and population. On 16th May, 1425, William Botiller and John Rede were appointed to inquire of all and singular merchants, as well foreigners as natives, and as well those who came to the ports of the town of Galway and Sligagh, as to all other ports of the county of Connaught, with wine, oil, honey, wool, skins, hides, lead or other articles whatsoever, liable to custom or king's duty, and also of all those who shipped any such merchandizes. 9 On 20th May, 1427, Sir Ulick de Burgo (son of Sir William,) and his brother received an order for twenty marks and forty pounds out of the customs of the town, which were paid to his brother on 24th October, following, to enable him to reduce the Irish, 10 and on 14th February, 1442, William, son of Sir William Bourke, Knight, was granted 101. to be paid out of the treasury of Ireland, in consideration of his laudable services in enabling the king's collectors to collect the customs in the port of Galway. H The records of this period abound with entries, relative to the collection of the revenues of the town, and their application; but as they do not impart any thing otherwise materially interesting, they are, for that reason, and also to avoid prolixity, omitted.

    The increase of trade rendered commercial regulations necessary, and

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 58

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are moving through a town that was growing in trade and population through the 1400s. In May 1425, William Botiller and John Rede were appointed to inquire into all merchants, foreign and native, who came to the ports of Galway and Sligagh and the other ports of Connaught with wine, oil, honey, wool, skins, hides, lead or any other goods liable to custom or the king's duty. The crown had a keen interest in what passed through here. On 20th May 1427, Sir Ulick de Burgo, son of Sir William, and his brother received an order for twenty marks and forty pounds out of the customs of the town. The money was paid to his brother on 24th October that year, to enable him to reduce the Irish. So the revenue taken from Galway's trade was turned directly to subduing the Irish around it. Later, on 14th February 1442, William, son of Sir William Bourke, Knight, was granted ten pounds from the treasury of Ireland, in consideration of his services in enabling the king's collectors to collect the customs in the port of Galway. The records of this period are full of entries about collecting the town's revenues and how they were applied. The trade grew, and with it came the need for commercial regulations.

23. Dominican Friary on site of St. Mary of the Hill convent

    Galway · city · Galway · 1488

    The Dominican Friary in the west suburbs of Galway stands on the site of the ancient convent of St. Mary of the Hill, a daughter house of the Premonstratensians of Tuam founded by the O'Hallorans. After the nuns left, secular clergy occupied it, and in 1488 Pope Innocent VIII granted it to the Dominican friars of Athenry.

    Read the passage

    This friary is situate on an elevated spot, near the sea-shore, in the west suburbs of the town. It stands on the site of the ancient convent of St. Mary of the Hill, a daughter of the Holy Trinity, of the Premonstratenses of Tuam, which was founded by the O'Hallorans, but at what period of time the annals of the town are silent; there is, however, every reason to pronounce it of very great antiquity. On the nuns forsaking it, the secular clergy entered, and kept possession for a considerable time; but, on the petition of the inhabitants of the town to pope Innocent VIII., it was granted in 1488 to the Dominican friars of Athenry by a bull, which may be seen at full (p. 323) in De Burgo's history of this celebrated order in Ireland.

    The Dominican convent being thus established in Galway, was richly endowed by many individuals of the town, and several considerable additions were made to the monastery and church. James Lynch Fitz-Stephen, who was mayor in 1493, and who has been already celebrated for immolating his only son at the shrine of public justice, erected the choir. Various other improvements were gradually made, until, in course of time, this became one of the" most perfect religious foundations in the province.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 219

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, over in the west suburbs near the sea-shore, there's a Dominican friary standing on high ground. It occupies the site of an older convent, St. Mary of the Hill, which was a daughter house of the Premonstratensians of Tuam and was founded by the O'Hallorans. The annals of the town don't say when it was founded, only that it was of very great antiquity. The nuns eventually forsook it, and the secular clergy moved in and held it for a considerable time. Then the inhabitants of the town petitioned Pope Innocent VIII, who granted it in 1488 to the Dominican friars of Athenry. The grant came by a papal bull recorded in De Burgo's history of the order in Ireland. Once established, the convent was richly endowed by many individuals of the town, and several additions were made to the monastery and church. James Lynch Fitz-Stephen, who was mayor in 1493, erected the choir. He is the same man celebrated for executing his own son in the name of public justice. Various other improvements followed gradually, and in time it became one of the most perfect religious foundations in the province.

24. Female Orphan Asylum established by Mrs. J. Joyce

    Galway · city · Galway

    A charitable asylum for female orphans was established in Galway by subscription, chiefly through Mrs. J. Joyce, under the patronage of Warden Bodkin. It provided daily instruction to 160 children, with thirty fully maintained and eventually apprenticed.

    Read the passage

    5. — Female Orphan Asylum. This charitable asylum was established a few years ago by subscription, chiefly through the humane exertions of Mrs. j. Joyce, but under the patronage of the late warden Bodkin. At present one hundred and sixty poor female children receive daily instruction, thirty of whom are dieted, lodged, clothed, and, when duly qualified, apprenticed to trades, or placed in other appropriate situations. This institution is highly deserving of public support, as it rescues many helpless individuals from ignorance, misery, and, probably, vice, and qualifies them to become, in their humble station, useful members of society.

    6. — Charitable Funds and Donations. William Hedges Eyre, Esq., by his last will, bequeathed £40 a year, to be paid out of the produce of the salmon fishery of Galway, towards the support of an alms-house for twelve poor men for ever; but it does not

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 247

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, there was once a Female Orphan Asylum here, established by subscription chiefly through the humane exertions of Mrs. J. Joyce, under the patronage of the late Warden Bodkin. One hundred and sixty poor female children received daily instruction there, and thirty of them were dieted, lodged, clothed, and when duly qualified, apprenticed to trades or placed in other appropriate situations. The institution was meant to rescue many helpless individuals from ignorance, misery, and probably vice, and to qualify them to become useful members of society in their humble station.

25. Foreign vessels purchase herring at Galway Bay

    near Galway Bay · bay · Clare

    Vessels from England, Scotland, and many parts of Ireland attend the different creeks and harbours of Galway Bay to purchase fresh herring for curing and exportation. The author laments that the merchants of Galway town do not take advantage of this treasure at their own doors, though Government now offers liberal encouragement to the Irish fisheries.

    Read the passage

    ember end ended on Christmas eve, does not now commence until the end of February or beginning of March, but the vast shoals annually taken are astonishing. The herrings are larger and esteemed of a much better quality than those taken on the coasts of Scotland, but that industrious nation far exceeds us in curing and saving the fish. On the commencement of the season vessels from England, Scotland, and many parts even of Ireland, attend in the different creeks and harbours of the bay, and purchase the fresh fish, which is immediately cured and prepared for exportation. It is much to be lamented that this practice does not awaken the attention of the merchants of the town, who might individually, or by forming themselves into companies, take advantage of those treasures which people of other countries annually carry away from their doors. The liberal encouragement, however, now held out by Government to the Irish fisheries may, perhaps, stimulate their industry. For this encouragement the country is not a little indebted to the late collector of Galway, whose exertions to promote this great source of national wealth are deserving of the highest praise.

    4. — Sunfish, Cod and Turbot Fishery.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 239

26. Franciscan Friary at Claregalway

    Claregalway · town · Galway · 1290

    Around 1290, John de Cogan built the Franciscan Friary at Claregalway, described as a beautiful and curious piece of Gothic architecture still in considerable preservation, with a high tower raised on arches. A castle was afterwards erected on the site by one of the De Burgo family.

    Read the passage

    15 John de Cogan, a descendant of this Milo's, about the year 1290, built the Franciscan Friary at Clare-yn-dowl now Clare Galway. It is a beautiful and curious piece of Gothic architecture, and is still in considerable preservation ; particularly the high tower, which is raised on arches. The castle was afterwards erected by one ef the family of De Burgos.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 44

27. Galway bye-law: ban on entertaining Irish chieftains

    Galway · city · Galway · 1518

    In 1518, the Galway corporation forbade householders from receiving any of the Burks, McWilliams, Kellies or any sept into their houses at Christmas, Easter, or any feast without license of the mayor and council, under penalty of 5l. The law was principally directed against the O'Flaherties, O'Conors, O'Kellies, O'Hallorans, Macnamaras, and MacWilliams of Clanrickard.

    Read the passage

    That, no freeman quit the town without license from the mayor, sub poena 20s.

    7. This law was principally directed O'Kellies, O'Hallorans, Macnamaras, and against the O'Flaherties, O'Conors, the Mac Williams of Clanrickard.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 164

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, think on 1518. The corporation forbade householders to take in the O'Flaherties, O'Conors, O'Kellies, O'Hallorans, Macnamaras, or MacWilliams of Clanrickard at Christmas, Easter, or any feast, without license from the mayor and council. The fine was 5 pounds. No freeman might leave town without the mayor's leave either, under penalty of 20 shillings.

28. Galway erected into separate jurisdiction

    Galway · city · Galway · 1616

    In 1616, the town, county of the town, and county of Galway were erected into a separate jurisdiction independent of the presidency of the province at the instance of the Earl of Clanrickard. This was seen as crucial for preserving peace and tranquillity in the region.

    Read the passage

    But, passing over this and other idle and worthless tales of tradition, for more useful and authentic information, it appears that the town, county of the town, and county of Galway, were, in 1616, at the instance of the earl of Clanrickard, erected into a separte jurisdiction, entirely independent of the presidency of the province — a circumstance which afterwards proved of the utmost consequence towards preserving the peace and tranquillity of this part of the kingdom. Upon his resignation of the presidency, his lordship was appointed governor or lieutenant of the town and county, and of the inahbitants there resident, as fully as he had enjoyed and exercised the same as lord president cf the province. 28 The lord deputy, Falkland, came to Galway in 1625, and was most honorably received. His lordship knighted Sir Richard Blake Fitz-Robert, and Sir Henry Lynch, bart. and munificently bestowed 3001. towards building a college, and 5001. to portion and apprentice several orphan children of the town. He particularly attended to the state of the fortifications, and directed a fort to be built on the lands of Ballymanagh, beyond the west bridge, the foundation of which was laid, and a good part of the walls built in 1625; and, at the same time, all the gates of the town were repaired at the expense of the corporation.

    The appointment of the earl of Clanrickard to the government of the

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 88

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you're in a town that was made a jurisdiction of its own in 1616. The town, the county of the town, and the county of Galway were all erected into a separate jurisdiction, entirely independent of the presidency of the province. This happened at the instance of the Earl of Clanrickard, who upon resigning the presidency was appointed governor or lieutenant of the town and county and its inhabitants, with the same authority he had held as lord president. The record calls this a circumstance of the utmost consequence towards preserving the peace and tranquillity of this part of the kingdom. In 1625 the Lord Deputy Falkland came to Galway and was honorably received. He knighted Sir Richard Blake Fitz-Robert and Sir Henry Lynch, gave 300 pounds towards building a college, and 500 pounds to portion and apprentice orphan children of the town. He directed a fort to be built on the lands of Ballymanagh, beyond the west bridge, with the foundation laid and part of the walls built in 1625. At the same time, all the gates of the town were repaired at the expense of the corporation.

29. Galway fortifications nearly complete (1602)

    Galway · city · Galway · 1602

    On 10 August 1602, Lord Deputy Mountjoy informed Secretary Cecil that Galway's fortifications were almost finished and requested heavy ordnance including demi-canons and culverins to defend against a potential Spanish landing.

    Read the passage

    The building of these extensive works of defence was carried on with vigor. On the 10th of August, 1602, the lord deputy informed Mr. Secretary Cecil, that the fortifications of Galway were almost finished, and that it would be needful for the place to have four demi-canons and four whole culverins, which he thought would make it of very great use against the Spaniards, if they should happen to land there, as he suspected, and that for this and other similar works it would be necessary to have some great ordnance. 20 On the 18th of November following his lordship set out on his journey for Connaught, his principal design being, "to view the town of Galway, and to consider how the descent of foreign enemies might best be prevented." — He kept Christmas in the the town; and, judging it a place of great importance to be preserved from being possessed by any foreign enemy he gave dirctions to finish the fort, which from its situation, would so effectually command the haven, and defend the town from foreign invasion. While he remained, the O'Flaherties of Iar-Connaught, the Mac Dermotts of the Courlews, O'Connor Roe, and many others, came in and submitted.

    James I. was proclaimed here in April, 1603. Upon the accession of this monarch, the Irish, supposing him a Catholic, entertained hopes that their ancient religion would be no longer proscribed, and accordingly the principal cities and towns of the kingdom immediatedly declared for the open and ur controlled confession of faith. The lord deputy made every exertion to suppress this rising spirit, and finally succeeded in putting it down. He issued particular orders to that effect to the magistrates of Galway, which were punctually attended to; and he was soon after informed by the mayor, " that howsoever he found no seditious inclination

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 84

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Galway now. In 1602 this town was ringed with new fortifications, built with vigor, and by the tenth of August they were almost finished. Lord Deputy Mountjoy wrote to Secretary Cecil to say so, and he asked for four demi-canons and four whole culverins. He thought these would make the town of very great use against the Spaniards if they should happen to land there, as he suspected they might. For this and other similar works, he said, some great ordnance would be necessary. On the 18th of November that year, Mountjoy set out for Connaught. His principal design was, in the source's words, "to view the town of Galway, and to consider how the descent of foreign enemies might best be prevented." He kept Christmas in the town. Judging it a place of great importance to be preserved from any foreign enemy, he gave directions to finish the fort, which from its situation would effectually command the haven and defend the town from invasion. While he remained there, the O'Flaherties of Iar-Connaught, the Mac Dermotts of the Courlews, O'Connor Roe, and many others came in and submitted. James the First was proclaimed here in April 1603. The Irish, supposing him a Catholic, hoped their ancient religion would no longer be proscribed, and the principal cities and towns immediately declared for the open confession of faith. The lord deputy made every exertion to suppress this rising spirit and finally succeeded. He issued particular orders to the magistrates of Galway, which were punctually attended to, and he was soon after informed by the mayor that he found no seditious inclination.

30. Galway garrison ordnance, 1743

    Galway · city · Galway · 1743

    An ordnance return for Galway garrison listed ninety-three pieces of cannon distributed across positions including the quay gate, royal battery, citadel, Lyons-tower, and William's-gate. Almost all were dismounted and unserviceable, with broken and rotten carriages.

    Read the passage

    severe than frequent, henceforth ceased, and, since this last and most violent gasp of expiring bigotry, the Catholic population of Gal way, with very few exceptions, have remained unmolested on account of their religion. In the year 1 740, a return was made, pursuant to the directions of government, of the state of the town militia. It then consisted of " three hundred effective Protestant inhabitants," divided into five companies, the particulars of which were laid before the lords justices, and a list of the officers was also submitted for their approbation. 37 There being no arms in the town, an order issued, in 1743, for one thousand muskets and bayonets for the town and county, of which two hundred and fifty were delivered to the militia by colonel Wynne, then governor of the town. A return of the ordnance in the garrison was soon after made, by which it appeared there were in the town ninety-three pieces of cannon, but that almost the entire were dismounted and unserviceable. 38 During the Scottish rebellion in 1745, the old prejudices against the Catholics were, for a while, revived; all persons entering or leaving the town underwent inspection; the gates (which formerly remained open until 10 o'clock at night) were closed every day at four in the afternoon, and the strictest military discipline was established in the garrison. These precautions, however, were laid aside soon after the

    37. First company.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 142

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Galway now. In 1743, a return was made of the ordnance in the garrison. The town held ninety-three pieces of cannon, but almost the entire were dismounted and unserviceable. They stood across the quay gate, the royal battery, the citadel, Lyons-tower, and William's-gate, their carriages broken and rotten. There had been no arms in the town. The militia consisted of three hundred effective Protestant inhabitants, divided into five companies, the particulars of which were laid before the lords justices. A list of the officers was also submitted for their approbation. An order issued in 1743 for one thousand muskets and bayonets for the town and county, of which two hundred and fifty were delivered to the militia by Colonel Wynne, then governor of the town. During the Scottish rebellion in 1745, old prejudices against the Catholics were revived for a while. All persons entering or leaving the town underwent inspection. The gates, which formerly remained open until 10 o'clock at night, were closed every day at four in the afternoon, and the strictest military discipline was established in the garrison. These precautions were laid aside soon after.

31. Galway Market House and Customs Mortgaged

    Galway · city · Galway

    The charter, markets, and petty customs of Galway, including the market house, were mortgaged by the Galway corporation to various individuals, including recorder John Blake for £400 and Nicholas Blake and Gregory Lynch for £2,000. These rights were subsequently granted by the crown to Elizabeth Hamilton and assigned to Colonel Theodoras Russell.

    Read the passage

    whatsoever, of us, our heires or successors : SAVEING, nevertheless, to every person and persons, theire heires and assignes, who have or claime any lands, tenements or hereditaments formerly belongeing to the said corporation of Gallway, in theire politique capacity, by force and virtue of any letters patents, under the greate seale of Ireland, grounded on any certificates passed by our late commissioners of our court of claymes sitting in Dublin, all such estate, right, tytle and interest as they, theire heiires and assinges have, or ought to have, in law or equity, of, in and unto such lands, tenements and hereditaments, by force and virtue of such certificates and letters patents made unto them in manner as aforesaid : SAVEING alsoe unto Mrs. Elizabeth Hamilton, the widow and relict of James Hamilton, esqre. one of the groomes of our bedchamber, lately deceased, her heires and assignes, all such estate, right, title and interest as shee and they have in and unto any the lands, tenements and hereditaments formerly belongeing unto the said corporation of Gallway, and which were lately granted by us unto the said Elizabeth, her heires and assignes, by certeyne letters patents, under our greate seale of Ireland, beareing date the 5th day of December, which was in the five and twentyeth yeare of our reigne : savemg alsoe unto collonell Theodoras Russell, his heires and assignes, all such estate, right, tytle and interest, as the said Theodoras Russell, as assignee to the said Elizabeth Hamilton, hath or ought to have, in law or equity, in and unto the duties, customes, fees and perquisitts of the marketts of Gallway, together with the markett-house there, lately mortgaged by the corporation of Gallway to John Blake/ esqre. late recorder of Gallway, for the sume of £400 sterling, and in and unto the charter and petty customes of Gallway, lately mortgaged by the said corporation unto Nicholas Blake and Gregory Lynch, and others, for the sum of £2,000 sterling, all which said charter, marketts, petty duties and customes, were lately, amongst other things, granted by us unto the said Elizabeth Hamilton, her heires <jnd assignes, in manner as aforesaid, and oy her assigned, articled and agreed to be assigned unto the said Theodoras Rus-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 301

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are travelling through a town whose corporation once mortgaged away its own commercial lifeblood. The market house, the charter, and the petty customs of Galway were pledged by the corporation to private individuals. The recorder John Blake held the market house against a debt of £400. Nicholas Blake and Gregory Lynch, with others, took the charter and petty customs for £2,000. The crown then stepped in and granted all these rights, by letters patent dated the 5th of December, to Elizabeth Hamilton, widow of James Hamilton, a groom of the bedchamber. She in turn assigned them to Colonel Theodoras Russell. So the market house, the charter, the market duties and customs, all the perquisites that once belonged to the corporation of Galway in its political capacity, passed from the town's own hands through debt into private ownership. The crown's patent saved the interests of those who already held such rights, meaning these mortgages were recognised, not undone.

32. Galway market-house described as cellar under military infirmary

    Galway · city · Galway

    The petition noted that the only public edifice kept by the corporation was what they called the market-house, though it was no more than a small ground cellar under the military infirmary, from which infection was continually apprehended.

    Read the passage

    buildings in good order and repair, but that these objects had ceased, for that government, for many years past, had been at the whole expense of repairing the walls; and the petitioners were obliged to pave the streets at their own expense : that the custom-house quay was most shamefully neglected, and so far gone to ruin as to render it unsafe for any vessel above thirty tons burden to load or unload there : that the corporation had, notwithstanding, all along levied the charter duties, which, with an additional unwarranted charge upon every vessel coming to the town, enhanced the price of goods and merchandise, imported and exported, nearly three per cent, to the very great detriment of the merchants, who were thereby rendered incapable of selling their goods upon equal terms with the other trading towns in the kingdom : that, for many years past, great extortions were practised by the toll-gatherers at the gates and markets of the town : that the fishery of Galway was capable of being made the most considerable in the kingdom, and, if properly followed and encouraged, would bring wealth to the town, and be the means of rearing a great number of able seamen for his majesty's service; but being so burdened with corporation taxes and perquisites, it was going to ruin and decay, and a great number of able young fishermen were obliged to go to foreign countries to seek for bread, at a lime when they might enrich themselves and their families at home, and be useful members of the community, had thy met with reasonable encouragement : that the country butchers were prevented, by the exactions of the corporation from supplying the town with meat : that the applotment of the public taxes and vestry money, by the corporation, was partial and unequal, and had become grievous and burdensome : that the billeting of his majesty's troops had been partially, illegally and oppressively executed : that the members of the corporation converted its large revenue to their private benefit : that the only public edifice kept by them was what they called the markethouse, though it was no more than a small ground cellar under the military infirmary, from which infection was continually apprehended : that in consequence of these and many other vexatious measures, practised in the administration of the affairs of the town, many families had removed from it, others were prevented from settling, and the gentlemen and farmers of the adjacent counties were discouraged from supplying the markets; in consequence of which, a general complaint had prevailed for a series of years past in the town and country, and the necessaries of life were considerably enhanced, to the great destruction of trade, the diminution of the inhabitants, and impoverishment of the town. — Such were the measures pursued by the corporation of Galway, since the revolution, and such the pernicious consequences which attended their proceedings; all which, after minute investigation before a committee, were pronounced, by the unanimous voice of the legislature, to be true. On the 17th February, 1762, the committee made their report, and submitted their resolutions, which were afterwards confirmed by the entire house, viz. "that the trade of the town, which was formerly very considerable, had greatly declined for some years past : that the several detailed exactions of the corporation were oppressive, unwarranted, inju-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 151

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the town's troubles were laid out in a petition going back to the years after the Revolution. The corporation kept only one public building, what they called the market-house, but it was nothing more than a small ground cellar under the military infirmary. Infection was continually apprehended from having the market below a military hospital. That was not the half of it. The corporation levied charter duties on vessels and added an unwarranted charge on every ship, raising the price of goods nearly three per cent and leaving Galway's merchants unable to compete with other trading towns. Toll-gatherers practised great extortions at the gates and markets. The fishery, capable of being the most considerable in the kingdom, was burdened with taxes and perquisites, going to ruin while able young fishermen left for foreign countries. Country butchers were prevented from supplying the town with meat. The billeting of troops was illegally and oppressively carried out. Corporation members converted the town's large revenue to their private benefit. Families removed, others were discouraged from settling, and the gentlemen and farmers of the adjacent counties stopped supplying the markets. On 17 February 1762, a committee report confirmed all of this by the unanimous voice of the legislature.

33. Galway originally part of the diocese of Annaghdown

    Annaghdown · townland · Galway · 1324

    The town of Galway originally belonged to the diocese of Enachdune (Annaghdown), an ancient bishopric, which was united to the archiepiscopal see of Tuam in 1324. After this union, the church of St. Nicholas was governed by vicars instituted by the see of Tuam, who were commonly of Irish extraction, creating tensions with the English parishioners.

    Read the passage

    The town of Galway originally belonged to the diocess of Enachdune, an ancient bishoprick, united in 1324 to the archiepiscopal see of Tuam.2 Since this union the church of St. Nicholas was governed by vicars, instituted by that see, who were commonly of Irish extraction, and, of course, entirely different from their hnglish parishioners, as well in their principles as in their manners and common habits of life. In this state, discontents and jealousies between the clergy and their flock were inevitable. The latter constantly complained that their Irish pastors were generally prejudiced against them, as being of English origin, and that they invariably countenanced and abetted their own friends and kindred of the Irish race, by whom the town was on all sides surrounded, and with whom the townspeople were in a state of continual hostility. The affairs of religion being thus circumstanced within the town, Donatus O' Murray, who was elected archbishop of Tuam in 1458, at length interfered, and, in consideration, as is said, of an ample equivalent bestowed by the inhabitants, and annexed to the see, he of his own authority erected the church of St. Nicholas into a collegiate of exempt jurisdiction, by letters under his seal, dated the 28th September, 1484,3 and to it united the parish church of St. James of Balenclaer (now Clare Galway)- This act having obtained the sanction of pope Innocent VIII. by bull, dated the six'da of the Ides of February

    presents St. Nicholas with his mitre, crozier, etc. At his right appear kneeling, the three virgins whom he rescued from the danger of prostitution ; and on a taVe at his left, the three purses of money wiili wh"«?h he performed that signal act of charity, his seal is coeval with the wr.cdenship.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 192

34. Galway regulates fishers of the loch and river for mayor's table

    Galway · city · Galway · 1550

    A 1550 by-law of Galway entitled the mayor to receive two hundred small eels from fishers of the loch or river every fish day between Michaelmas and Hallowtide, and each bailiff one hundred. After Hallowtide, the mayor could choose two fishers to supply his table with fresh fish, and each bailiff could likewise choose a fisher.

    Read the passage

    That the mayor, for the time being, shall have of the fishers of the logh or ryvere every fish day, betwixte Michaelmas and Hollontide, but two hundred small elles, and every of the bailiffs to have one hundred ; and from Hollontide forth it is ordered that the mayor, for the furnishing his table with fresh fishe, shall have the election of two fishers, whom he liste, and every of the bailiffes to have in like a fisher to keep their house with fishe.

    14. This family is very ancient in Galway. (See page 70, note ante, and the account of the Franciscan Abbey.) Its

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 168

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in a town that kept tight rules on its fishers back in 1550. A by-law from that year entitled the mayor to receive two hundred small eels from the fishers of the loch or river every fish day between Michaelmas and Hallowtide, and each bailiff one hundred. After Hallowtide the mayor could choose two fishers to supply his table with fresh fish, and each bailiff could likewise choose a fisher. The words of the record say the fishers were to, keep their house with fish.

35. Galway's walls, gates and former magnificence

    Galway · city · Galway

    Galway was once surrounded by walls with fourteen gates, multiple towers, and fortified approaches over bridges. The city was described as the most perfect in the kingdom, adorned with superb buildings and defences, though by Hardiman's time these had crumbled into ruins.

    Read the passage

    But these facts, however well authenticated, must appear extraordinary to those now acquainted with the town, and when contrasted with its present very different state and appearance, it would not be at all surprising if they should be pronounced as altogether incredible. The lofty walls, castles, edifices and towers, once its pride and ornament, are long since crumbled into dust, the much boasted spirit of enterprize and independance of its former inhabitants, lie dead or dormant in their descendants, and nothing now remains to mark their former grandeur, but the spacious ruins

    74. St. John's lane, called in Gutta.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in a city that once had lofty walls, castles, edifices and towers, all described as its pride and ornament. Hardiman wrote that the town was so changed by his time that its former grandeur seemed altogether incredible to anyone who knew it then. He said nothing remained to mark that former grandeur but spacious ruins.

36. General assembly in Galway tholsel pledges defence

    Galway · city · Galway · 1641

    On 11 November 1641, a general assembly convened in the tholsel of Galway and unanimously resolved that the town would lose their blood and lives in defence of the fort and town for his majesty's service.

    Read the passage

    Ulick, the fifth earl of Clanricarde, governor, for life, of the town and county of Galway, having fortunately returned to Ireland in the summer of 1641, was then at his castle of Portumna.37 As soon as he heard of the troubles, he took every precaution for the security of the county. On the 28th October he dispatched messengers to Galway, to Sir Richard Blake, with an account of the breaking out of the rebellion, and directions that the town should be most strict and vigilant in its watch and guards. This information was immediately communicated to the mayor and council : arms and ammunition, with which they were but badly provided, were supplied : orders were issued to strengthen the town gates where they were weak and defective, and the guards and watches were doubled. On the 6th of November his lordship arrived; he remained two days, during which time he put the town and fort in the best possible posture of defence, augmented the two companies of the latter to two hundred men, and directed the mayor and corporation to furnish it with provisions, with which it was but indifferently stored; and, to provide for his own company in Loughrea, he took out of the store-house one hundred firelocks and as manj pikes; but more than half of these, upon trial, was found unserviceable The consternation of the town was considerably increased by the archbishop of Tuam deserting his castle, and flying for refuge to the fort, and the subsequent treacherous surprisal of lord Clanricarde's castle of Aghnenure, in Iar-Connaught, by young Morough-na-ciuoh O'Flaherty On the 11th, a general assembly was convened in the tholsel; and it was. amongst other things, unanimously resolved : "that to the last man the said town of Galway would lose their blood and lives in his majesty's service, in the defence, and for the safety of the said fort and town." The fort was furnished with one hundred pecks of wheat, fifty pounds worth of timber and other necessaries, all which were to be paid for upon the restoration of tranquility in the kingdom.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 94

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in a town that in 1641 braced itself for rebellion. Ulick, the fifth earl of Clanricarde, governor for life of the town and county, was at his castle of Portumna when he heard of the troubles. On 28 October he dispatched messengers to Sir Richard Blake with word of the rebellion's outbreak and orders for the strictest watch and guards. The mayor and council were told, arms were gathered though they had few, weak gates were strengthened, and watches doubled. Clanricarde arrived on 6 November and spent two days putting the town and fort in the best posture of defence. He raised the fort's two companies to 200 men and ordered the corporation to furnish it with provisions, though stores were thin. He took 100 firelocks and as many pikes from the store-house for his own company in Loughrea, but more than half proved unserviceable. Fear grew when the archbishop of Tuam abandoned his castle and fled to the fort for refuge, and young Morrough O'Flaherty treacherously seized Clanricarde's castle of Aghnenure. On 11 November a general assembly convened in the tholsel, and it was unanimously resolved, in the words of the record, "that to the last man the said town of Galway would lose their blood and lives in his majesty's service, in the defence, and for the safety of the said fort and town." The fort was stocked with 100 pecks of wheat, 50 pounds worth of timber and other necessaries, all to be paid for upon the restoration of tranquility.

37. Grant of islands Bushe-yland and Gote-yland to Galway clerk (1421)

    Galway · city · Galway · 1421

    In 1421, Walter, son and heir of Richard Bawdekyn, clerk of Galway, was granted custody of the islands called Bushe-yland and Gote-yland belonging to the town of Galway, by a grant dated at Drogheda.

    Read the passage

    25 A grant to "Walter, son and heir of Richard, Clerk of Galvy, otherwise called Richard Bawdekyn of Galvy, of the custody of the Islands called Bushe-yland and Gote-yland of the town of Galvy." Dated at Drogheda, 11th September, 1421.— -Rot. 9 Hen. v.

    26 Richard Bodkin, Burgess of Galway, was Provost of Athenry, in 1454.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, there is a record from 1421. In September of that year, a grant was made at Drogheda to Walter, son and heir of Richard Bawdekyn, clerk of Galway, giving him custody of two islands belonging to the town, called Bushe-yland and Gote-yland. That is all the record tells us.

38. Lynche's aisle and tower built by Nicholas Lynch Fitz-Stephen

    Galway · city · Galway

    The south aisle of St. Nicholas's Church, known as Lynche's aisle, features a polished marble altar and window built by its founder, Nicholas Lynch Fitz-Stephen. His tomb and a handsome tower adjoining the aisle are prominent ornaments of the church.

    Read the passage

    On entering the south or Lynche's aisle, the polished marble altar and window of exquisite beauty, built by the founder of this extensive wing, and which now form its principal ornaments, will immediately attract attention. On both sides of this curious altar there are raised tombs, highly sculptured, belonging to various branches of this ancient family : one of these is the tomb of Nicholas Lynch Fitz-Stephen, by whom this aisle and the adjoining tower were erected. 36 A small marble tablet, inserted on one side of the altar, contains the following inscription commemorating one of his descendants :

    Stirpe clarus, amor militum, terror inimicorum, aetate iuvenis, sener virtutibus, mundo non digno eraltur ad coelum, 14°, Martii. Anno Domini 1644. — Stephanus Lynch.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 207

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the south aisle of St. Nicholas's Church is known as Lynche's aisle, built by Nicholas Lynch Fitz-Stephen, who also erected the adjoining tower. The polished marble altar and window he built form its principal ornaments, and raised sculptured tombs of various branches of the ancient Lynch family stand on both sides. A small marble tablet commemorates one of his descendants, Stephen Lynch, with a Latin inscription calling him a youth in age, a man in virtues, snatched from a world unworthy of him to heaven on the 14th of March 1644.

39. Mass-house survey of Lombard Street chapel

    Lombard Street · street · Galway

    A government survey recorded popish mass-houses and private chapels in Galway, including one in Lombard Street near the lower barrack, formerly the house of widow Skerrett. Officials could not fully account for priests, friars, and nuns without examining inhabitants on oath.

    Read the passage

    of widow Skerrett, lately deceased, in Lombard-street, near the lower barrack ; and one Bodkin and one Banks (of whose Christian, names I have not been informed, or whether priests or friars I am not informed) officiate in some of the said chapels or private houses. And they giving no account, but as aforesaid, and finding it not practicable, without examining on oath some of the popish inhabitants, to get an account of any other, or what mass-houses in the said town, or what number of priests officiate in each of the said mass-houses, or of the private popish chapels, or of the number of friars or nuns in each friary or nunnery respectively, I cannot be particular therein. — Com. Jour. Vol. III. p. 170.

    5 "Consentiunt Clerus Populusque Galviensis :

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 210

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on Lombard Street, a government survey recorded a popish mass-house, formerly the house of widow Skerrett, lately deceased, near the lower barrack. The survey listed men called Bodkin and Banks officiating in some of the chapels or private houses, but could not say whether they were priests or friars, or even their Christian names. The official reported he could not get a full account of the mass-houses, priests, friars, or nuns in Galway without examining the popish inhabitants on oath.

40. Merlin Park quarry opened 1814

    near Merlin Park · street · Galway · 1814

    The Merlin Park marble quarry was opened in 1814 by its proprietor Mr. Blake, who exported a few cargoes. The quarry's jet-black marble was noted for taking a high polish but the enterprise lacked sustained industry and perseverance.

    Read the passage

    15 There are some extensive marble quarries near Galway, out of which many ot the ancient and modern edifices of the town were entirelv built. The prtncvnal are those of Anglingham. near Menlo, and of Merlin-park. The marble of both these- extensive quarries is of a beautiful jot-black colour, and is susceptible of the highest polish; it is fine-grained, soft, and easily wrought, and is much prized by artists. It occurs in considerable masses, with a straight fracture, on thin strata of plastic clay? or argillaceous paste; and \alid blocks, often weigmg upwards of 4 tons, and measuring from 18 to 20 feet long, and from 8 to 10 feet broad, are frequently raissd, particularly at Anglingham. Mr. Stanley Ireland, some years since, shipped several cargoes to London, Liverpool, Bristol, CorV Dublin, etc. : he al'O established a marble-yard in the town and employed several workmen, who wrought a variety of elegant monuments, plain and sculptured chimney-pieces, tablets slabs, sideboard-tables, etc. ; but at present this trade is rather declining. The Merlin-park quarry was opened in 1814, and Mr, Blake, the proprietor, exported »

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 232

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Merlin Park, a marble quarry was opened in 1814. Its proprietor was Mr. Blake, and he exported a few cargoes from the site. The marble itself was remarkable stuff. It came out of the ground a beautiful jet-black colour, fine-grained and soft, easily worked, and it would take the highest polish. Artists prized it. It occurred in considerable masses with a straight fracture, sitting on thin strata of plastic clay. These were quarries of real substance, among the principal near Galway, alongside the one at Anglingham near Menlo. Many of the ancient and modern buildings of the town were built entirely from stone drawn out of these workings. But the Merlin Park enterprise never found sustained industry or perseverance. Blake shipped those few cargoes, and the trade did not build into anything lasting. What you have near here is the remnant of a stone that was once prized and a venture that did not hold.

41. New Galway county infirmary building

    Galway · city · Galway · 1765

    A spacious and elegant new infirmary was erected on two acres granted by the governors of Erasmus Smith's schools, standing on elevated ground near the principal entrance to Galway with views of the bay and lake. Between 700 and 800 patients were admitted annually.

    Read the passage

    This spacious and elegant building, which stands in a healthy and elevated situation, at a short distance from the high road or principal entrance to the town, commands from the front an extensive prospect of the bay, and from the rear a view of the lake and adjacent country for many miles round, It is three lofty stories in height, with a range of seven windows in each, front and rear. The architectural design of the exterior is plain, and suitable to the object of the institution, but the interior contains every convenience requisite for establishments of this nature. There are several wards well fitted up for the reception of the patients, of whom between 700 and 800 are admitted annually. 37 Numerous externs also daily receive relief and assistance.

    of the entire prison. The turnkey's room, hospital for the reception of poor, sick

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 245

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the county infirmary stands on elevated ground near the principal entrance to the town. It opened at the beginning of the nineteenth century, a spacious three-story building with seven windows on each floor, front and rear. The governors of Erasmus Smith's schools granted two acres of ground for its erection. Between 700 and 800 patients were admitted every year, and numerous externs also received daily relief. The exterior was plain, suited to its purpose, but the interior held several wards well fitted up for the patients.

42. Old proprietors fail to recover Galway properties

    Galway · city · Galway

    The descendants of the ancient natives of Galway were largely unable to recover their patrimony after the king's declaration in their favour, due to financial ruin, legal delays, and opposition from new possessors. Whatever property they later held was mainly obtained by purchase, and their titles were confirmed by crown grants and leases.

    Read the passage

    them, they were in general either defeated, or abandoned in despair, and left unfinished; in consequence of which, very little benefit, as before observed, was derived from the king's declaration in their favor; and whatever part of the ir ancient patrimony the descendants of the natives afterwards possessed in the town, was principally obtained by purchase from the new possessors, whose titles, however acquired, have been ratified and indiscriminately confirmed by grants and leases from the crown^O. They were also continued in all the offices of the corporation; and although several writs of Quo Warranto had been brought against them for exercising jurisdiction as a corporate body, and judgment finally obtained, they still retained their power in the town, through the influence of the duke of Ormond, and were ultimately triumphant over all opposition. Thus disappointed in their expectations of being restored to their properties, and that, chiefly, through the indifference or ingratitude of a prince in whose cause they had been sacrificed, the ancient natives felt the less regret at their subsequent expulsion from the town, and consequent exclusion from all those corporate privileges and freedoms which they had formerly exercised, and which had been so honorably acquired and so long enjoyed by their ancestors. They withdrew, therefore, to brood in silence over their wrongs, but fully resolved, however, as the sequel will show, to embrace with avidity any opportunity that might present itself to redress them.

    The town continued to be governed under its former charters until the year 1672, when the " new " rules, orders and directions were made and established by the lord lieutenant and council, pursuant to the act of explana-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 118

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are travelling through a town where the old proprietors never got back what they lost. After the king declared in their favour, the descendants of the ancient natives tried to recover their patrimony through the courts, but their cases were in general either defeated or abandoned in despair and left unfinished. Very little benefit came from the king's declaration. Whatever property they afterwards held in the town was principally obtained by purchase from the new possessors, whose titles, however acquired, were ratified and indiscriminately confirmed by grants and leases from the crown. The new possessors were also continued in all the offices of the corporation. Several writs of Quo Warranto were brought against them for exercising jurisdiction as a corporate body, and judgment was finally obtained, yet they still retained their power through the influence of the duke of Ormond. The ancient natives, disappointed in their expectations of restoration, chiefly through the indifference or ingratitude of a prince in whose cause they had been sacrificed, felt the less regret at their subsequent expulsion from the town. They withdrew to brood in silence over their wrongs, fully resolved to embrace any opportunity to redress them. The town continued to be governed under its former charters until 1672, when new rules, orders and directions were made by the lord lieutenant and council.

43. Peter Lynch endows land in Athenry for priestly sustenance

    Athenry · town · Galway · 1494

    By his will of February 1494, Peter Lynch devised ten acres of arable land in Athenry, together with his principal stone tenement in Galway, for the perpetual sustenance of one priest who should daily celebrate mass for the souls of himself, his wife Ellen Blake, their ancestors, and all the faithful departed.

    Read the passage

    Contributed a large sum towards finishing the college-house. Peter Lynch, burgess, erected in the church the chapel and altar of St. Katherine the Virgin; and by his will, dated „9i:h February, 1494, devised " his principal stone tenement in Galway, and ten acres of arable land in Athenry for ever, for the perpetual sustenance of one good and proper priest, who who should daily celebrate mass therein for the souls of himself, Ellen Blake, his wife, their ancestors, friends, and all the faithful departed." — Several similar instances of individual benevolence and devotion occur about this period, by which the possessions of the church were considerably augmented. 8

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 194

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Athenry, Peter Lynch, a burgess of Galway, left ten acres of arable land here by his will of February 1494. He also devised his principal stone tenement in Galway, both held for ever for the perpetual sustenance of one priest who should daily celebrate mass for the souls of himself, his wife Ellen Blake, their ancestors, friends, and all the faithful departed. He had already contributed a large sum towards finishing the college-house and erected in the church the chapel and altar of St. Katherine the Virgin.

44. Proliferation of attorneys in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1790

    Galway was noted as being better supplied with attorneys than any city in Ireland of comparable size. Before 1790 there were scarcely six legal professionals in the town, but by the time of writing the number had grown to over thirty.

    Read the passage

    16 It has been observed that no city in Ireland, even of much greater extent, is better supplied with attorneys than Galway. Previously to 1790, there were scarcely six gentlemen of that profession here ; but now there are upwards of thirty (amongst whom the author has the honor of being enrolled), a number deemed by some entirely disproportionate to the population of the town.

    326

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 252

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this city had a reputation around 1790 for being better supplied with attorneys than any town in Ireland of comparable size. Before 1790 there were scarcely six legal professionals here, but by the time of writing that number had grown to over thirty.

45. Richard Martin builds chapels at abbey and St Nicholas

    Galway · city · Galway · 1642

    In 1642, Richard Martin of Dungorie, mayor of Galway, bestowed £800 to build two chapels—one in the Franciscan abbey and the other in the church of St. Nicholas.

    Read the passage

    1642. Richard Martin, of Dungorie, who was this year mayor of the town, bestowed £800 to build two chapels, one in this abbey, and the other in the church of St. Nicholas.

    1643. June 25th (Sunday), mass was solemnly sung in this abbey for the

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 217

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the year 1642 left its mark here. Richard Martin of Dungorie, then mayor of the town, gave £800 to build two chapels, one in the Franciscan abbey and the other in the church of St. Nicholas. Both still stand in the city's old fabric.

46. St James's chapel at Newcastle and Dangan castle

    near Newcastle · street · Galway

    A road led from the west suburbs of Galway to St James's chapel at Newcastle and a strong castle called Dangan. These were notable landmarks connected to the western approach to the city.

    Read the passage

    47. Part of the road which leads to St.

    James's chapel at newcastle, and the strong castle, called in Dangein.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 32

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Newcastle, a road once led from the west suburbs of Galway to St James's chapel and a strong castle called Dangan. Both were landmarks on the western approach to the city.

47. Tholsel and town hall ordered near St Nicholas church

    Galway · city · Galway · 1639–1704

    In 1639 the corporation ordered that shops near the market, extending to the way into St Nicholas church, be pulled down and replaced with a stone building to serve as a common hall or tholsel with chambers for records. The building was finished in 1704.

    Read the passage

    30 In 1637. the east tower gate was built, and the town cleck erected at the expense of the corporation. On 10th May, 1639. it was ordered in council, "that, at the comonm charge of this corporation, all grants and gifts, under their common seal, of the shops near or at the market thereof, shall be bought ; the same, and all the places of the said market that side, as far as the stonewall there, which extends itself to the way into our parish church of Saint Nicholas, be pulled down,

    and soe all the same to be reduced into a strong sufficient stone house, covered with slate, and to be under-propped with good stone pillars, whereby way thro' it shall be to the said church, as formerly it hath been and the upper parts to be made a fair common-hall or towlsel, with convenient chambers for the common counsill and towne clerke, for the safe keeping of all the towne records and writings. — Corporation Book, Lib. A. — This building was finished in 1704.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 89

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, there is a story in the record about the market and the way to St Nicholas church. In 1637 the corporation built the east tower gate and the town clock at their own expense. Two years later, on the 10th of May 1639, the council ordered that all the shops near the market, as far as the stone wall extending to the way into the parish church of Saint Nicholas, be bought and pulled down. In their place a strong stone house was to rise, covered with slate and held up by stone pillars, leaving a way through to the church as before. The upper floors were to be a fair common hall or tholsel, with convenient chambers for the common council and the town clerk, for the safe keeping of all the town records and writings. The building was finished in 1704.

48. Three nunneries with chapels serving Galway town

    Galway · city · Galway

    The three nunneries in Galway have attached handsome chapels adorned with fine paintings, where mass is daily celebrated. These chapels are particularly convenient for female inhabitants of the town, who principally resort to them. At the time of writing, there were about eighteen Franciscan, fourteen or fifteen Dominican, and six or seven Augustinian nuns.

    Read the passage

    To the three nunneries there are attached handsome and commodious chapels, which are adorned with several fine paintings, and in each of which mass is daily celebrated by the chaplains of the different orders. These chapels are also very convenient for the inhabitants of the town, particularly the female part of the community, by whom they are principally resorted. The number of professed nuns of the Franciscan order is at

    36 In the return before alluded to, made their ancient property situate in Islandby the mayor in 1731, he stated "that the altenagh, or tbe " Nuns' Island," near sheriffs searched the reputed nunnery in the town, which was formerly granted to Lombard-street, called the Franciscan them by the corporation, and on which nunnery and saw only some servants they had laid the foundation of a monasthere ; but found therein twenty-six beds ter.v. A deputation of their body repaired in twelve rooms, wherein, they believe, to England and (as is said, attired in the the reputed nuns belonging to said house habit of their order) , ventured to present lav and some young gentlewomen, who their memorial to the queen. Thev were lodged and boarded with them before they graciously received, and her majesty was dispersed." pleased to grant their request. The pre-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 223

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, there were once three nunneries here, each with its own chapel. The chapels were handsome and well furnished with fine paintings, and mass was said in them every day by the chaplains of the different orders. The women of the town used these chapels most of all. There were about 18 Franciscan nuns, 14 or 15 Dominican, and 6 or 7 Augustinian. In 1731 the sheriffs searched the Franciscan nunnery in Lombard Street and found only servants there, but 26 beds in 12 rooms, which they believed were for the nuns and young gentlewomen who boarded there before being dispersed. The nuns also had land on what was called Nuns' Island, granted to them by the corporation, where they had laid the foundation of a monastery. A deputation of their order went to England in their habits and presented a memorial to the queen, who received them and granted their request.

49. Warden Fitz-Michael served as pastor of Gate-quarter and East-suburbs

    Galway · city · Galway · 1679

    Before his election to the wardenship, Fitz-Michael officiated as pastor of the Gate-quarter and East-suburbs of Galway. He received holy orders in 1679 at Salamanca in Spain from Bishop Peter Salazar.

    Read the passage

    2 This warden received holy orders in 1679 at Salamanca in Spain, from Peter Salazar, bishop of that place. Before his election to the wardenship, he officiated as pastor of the Gate-quarter and Eastsuburbs.

    3 These persecutions commenced in the reign of William III. On 25th October, 1701. Francis Gwyn, then secretary of state, wrote to the mayor of Galway as follows: — "Sir, my lord lieutenant having received information that two friars, lately landed at Galway out of a French ship, arrived in that port, and that two post-days have since passed without any account thereof being sent from you, his excellency has commanded me to let' you know he is not well pleased with your remissness in not advising him with the land ing of any person at your port, contrary to the laws of this kingdom, and expects you will forthwith send up an account to me, if those two friars have been seized, according to act of parliament, and are in custody, and also what else has been done in that matter." — Orig. Letter. — Every reader is already acquainted with the severity of those laws during the reign of queen Anne. Immediately after the accession of her successor, the grand jury of the county of Galway, at an assizes commenced in the town on the 29th of March. 1715, represented to the lords justices "that great numbers of popish priests and friars, and other ecclesiasticks of the Romish persuasion had come into the kingdom within the last four years ; that the friars settled themselves in the following places in the county, viz. : Kilconnell. and in another place near Portumna ; as also in Toir.ona. near the abbey of Kinelehan ; in Ross, near Headford ; in Loughrea, in the abbey of Milick ; and in Kilneschael. near the abbey of Athenry ; that the great discouragement given, in the close of the last reign, by the men then in power, to such as were active in suppressing all friaries, and put-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 209

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this city was a landing point for Catholic friars crossing from France. In October 1701, the secretary of state, Francis Gwyn, wrote an angry letter to the mayor of Galway, saying his lord lieutenant was not well pleased that two friars had lately landed there out of a French ship and that two post-days had passed with no word sent. He demanded to know whether those friars had been seized and held according to act of parliament. By March 1715, after Queen Anne's successor took the throne, the grand jury of County Galway reported to the lords justices that great numbers of popish priests and friars had come into the kingdom within the last four years. They named the places where friars had settled: Kilconnell, a place near Portumna, Toirona near the abbey of Kinelehan, Ross near Headford, Loughrea in the abbey of Milick, and Kilneschael near the abbey of Athenry. The grand jury complained that the men then in power had discouraged anyone active in suppressing friaries.

50. Willoughby departs Galway on eve of 1641 rebellion

    Galway · city · Galway · 1641

    On the night of 22 October 1641, Governor Sir Francis Willoughby departed St. Augustine's fort for Dublin, leaving it under the command of his son Captain Anthony Willoughby, just one day before the outbreak of the Irish rebellion.

    Read the passage

    Sir Francis Willoughby, who was then governor of St. Augustine's fort, near Galway, (which had been thoroughly reparied at considerable expense, in 1636, and rendered one of the most complete fortifications in the kingdom,) in the month of October, 1641, departed for Dublin, leaving the fort, with two companies, under the command of his son, captain Anthony Willoughby. He arrived there on the night of the 22d, and stated, in council, that neither at Galway, nor all the way from thence, did he obs^ve

    0

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 93

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this is the town Sir Francis Willoughby governed from St. Augustine's fort, a stronghold repaired at great expense in 1636 and counted among the finest fortifications in the kingdom. In October 1641 he left for Dublin, leaving the fort and two companies under his son, Captain Anthony Willoughby. He arrived in Dublin on the night of the 22nd and told the council he had seen no sign of trouble at Galway or on the road. The rebellion broke out the next day.

51. Building of Galway's great west bridge

    Galway · city · Galway · 1342

    In 1342 the great west bridge of Galway was built under the direction of Edmond Lynch Fitz-Thomas, known as Emon-a-Tuane for his large wine imports. The town's improvement continued despite the troubled times following the De Burgho revolt.

    Read the passage

    The De Burgos, for some time after their revolt, retained possession of Galway, but it soon afterwards returned to its allegiance. During the troubles which took place, its improvement appears not to have been unattended to. In the year 1342 the great west bridge was built, under the direction of Edmond Lynch Fitz-Thomas, who was commonly called Emon-a-Tuane, from the great quantity of foreign wines which he annually imported. The trade and revenues of the town, however, were considerably diminised, for on 3d December, 1346, a commission^ was issued by the treasurer of Ireland, to Walter Blake, for the custody of the great custom of Galway and elsewhere in Connaught, he paying into the Exchequer, for the entire, only 221. yearly; and the sheriff of Connaught was commanded that taking from him sufficient security, and the usual oaths that he would faithfully serve the king, he should deliver to him the letters patent : and John Lawless, son of John of Portraghery, late keeper of the customs, was ordered to deliver him the seal of office. This depression of trade was of short duration, for in the year 1361, soon after the accession of Edw. IV. the countess of Ulster applied to the king on behalf of the town, and obtained a murage charter for the purpose of effectually inclosing it with walls. The subjoined extract from this instrument will give the reader a view of the several articles of traffic and commerce, which in these times were prevalent in this part of Ireland. 37 The beneficial effects of

    36 Rot. Mem. 19 Edw. III.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the great west bridge here dates to 1342. It was built under the direction of Edmond Lynch Fitz-Thomas, who was commonly called Emon-a-Tuane, from the great quantity of foreign wines he imported each year. The bridge went up during troubled times, after the De Burgho revolt, when the De Burgos had held Galway before the town returned to its allegiance. Despite that unrest, the town's improvement was not neglected. Trade did suffer afterwards. On the 3rd of December 1346, a commission from the treasurer of Ireland gave Walter Blake custody of the great custom of Galway and elsewhere in Connaught, for just 221 yearly paid into the Exchequer. The previous keeper, John Lawless, son of John of Portraghery, was ordered to hand over the seal of office. That depression was short lived. In 1361, soon after the king's accession, the countess of Ulster applied to the king on behalf of the town and obtained a murage charter to enclose it with walls.

52. Arms taken from Loughrea store-house found unserviceable

    Loughrea · town · Galway · 1641

    To provide for his own company in Loughrea, Clanricarde took one hundred firelocks and as many pikes from the store-house, but more than half were found unserviceable upon trial.

    Read the passage

    Ulick, the fifth earl of Clanricarde, governor, for life, of the town and county of Galway, having fortunately returned to Ireland in the summer of 1641, was then at his castle of Portumna.37 As soon as he heard of the troubles, he took every precaution for the security of the county. On the 28th October he dispatched messengers to Galway, to Sir Richard Blake, with an account of the breaking out of the rebellion, and directions that the town should be most strict and vigilant in its watch and guards. This information was immediately communicated to the mayor and council : arms and ammunition, with which they were but badly provided, were supplied : orders were issued to strengthen the town gates where they were weak and defective, and the guards and watches were doubled. On the 6th of November his lordship arrived; he remained two days, during which time he put the town and fort in the best possible posture of defence, augmented the two companies of the latter to two hundred men, and directed the mayor and corporation to furnish it with provisions, with which it was but indifferently stored; and, to provide for his own company in Loughrea, he took out of the store-house one hundred firelocks and as manj pikes; but more than half of these, upon trial, was found unserviceable The consternation of the town was considerably increased by the archbishop of Tuam deserting his castle, and flying for refuge to the fort, and the subsequent treacherous surprisal of lord Clanricarde's castle of Aghnenure, in Iar-Connaught, by young Morough-na-ciuoh O'Flaherty On the 11th, a general assembly was convened in the tholsel; and it was. amongst other things, unanimously resolved : "that to the last man the said town of Galway would lose their blood and lives in his majesty's service, in the defence, and for the safety of the said fort and town." The fort was furnished with one hundred pecks of wheat, fifty pounds worth of timber and other necessaries, all which were to be paid for upon the restoration of tranquility in the kingdom.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 94

53. Bishop John Lynch Fitz-James buried at St. Nicholas' church

    Galway · city · Galway · 1584–1611

    John Lynch Fitz-James, a native of Galway, was appointed bishop of Elphin by Queen Elizabeth in 1584 and surrendered his see in 1611, charged with wasting its revenues. He was buried in St. Nicholas' church in Galway.

    Read the passage

    was appointed in 1536 archbishop of Tuam by Hen. VIII. In. 1584 John Lynch Fitz- James was appointed bishop of Elphin by queen Elizabeth. He surrendered his see in 1611, but was charged with wasting its revenues : and it was zaid ' ' that he lived a .concealed, and died a public papist." He lies buried in St. Nicholas' church. On 24th May, 1532, Stephen Kerovan, of Galway, was translated from the bishoprick of Kilmacduach to_±hat of Clonfert ; and in 1602, Roland Linche, another native of Galway, was appointed his successor in Clonfert. This prelate was also charged with defrauding and injuring his successors, by alienating away the property of his church.. In 1606, he made a lease of the entire lands of the bishoprick, consisting of twenty -eight denominations, to Robert Blake, for ninety-nine years, at £5 per annum. — Vide Harris's Ware.

    7 Th_e_ archbishop, by his letters, dated on the feast of the Conception, 1487, united the rectory and vicarage of the parochial church of Furanmore (Oranmore) and the vicarage of Meary, both in the diocese of Anaghdown, to the collegiate church, reserving annually out of Furanmore twenty-one ounces of silver money, ,and out of Meary seven ounces. By letters dated 12th April, 1488, he united the vicarage of the parish church of St. Mary of Rathuna (Rahoon), being

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 193

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Galway. An archbishop of Tuam was appointed in 1536 by Henry the Eighth. In 1584, John Lynch Fitz-James, a native of this town, was appointed bishop of Elphin by Queen Elizabeth. He surrendered his see in 1611, but was charged with wasting its revenues, and it was said "that he lived a concealed, and died a public papist." He lies buried in Saint Nicholas church. On the 24th of May, 1532, Stephen Kerovan, of Galway, was translated from the bishoprick of Kilmacduach to that of Clonfert; and in 1602, Roland Linche, another native of Galway, was appointed his successor in Clonfert. This prelate was also charged with defrauding and injuring his successors, by alienating away the property of his church. In 1606, he made a lease of the entire lands of the bishoprick, consisting of 28 denominations, to Robert Blake, for 99 years, at 5 pounds per annum. By his letters, dated on the feast of the Conception, 1487, the archbishop united the rectory and vicarage of the parochial church of Furanmore, or Oranmore, and the vicarage of Meary, both in the diocese of Anaghdown, to the collegiate church, reserving annually out of Furanmore 21 ounces of silver money, and out of Meary 7 ounces.

54. Franciscan friary founded on Saint Stephen's island, Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1296

    Sir William Leigh de Burgh founded a Franciscan friary in 1296 on Saint Stephen's island, located outside the north gate of the town of Galway. This is one of the earliest documented religious foundations associated with the town.

    Read the passage

    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

    As Galway comes up, you are passing through a town whose earliest documented religious foundation sits on Saint Stephen's island, just outside the old north gate. In 1296, Sir William Leigh de Burgh founded a Franciscan friary there. It is one of the first religious houses linked to the town. The same Sir William Leigh de Burgh was soon drawn into a wider conflict. A man named Fedhlim had declared for Bruce and was making incursions on the English settlers in Connaught, though he never managed to do Galway itself any injury. Sir William and Richard de Bermingham, the fourth baron of Athenry, were sent against him. Fedhlim met them with a numerous army. What followed near Athenry, in the county of Galway, is called the most sanguinary engagement recorded since the invasion. The native troops were signally defeated. Fedhlim, the last of his name to assume sovereignty, fell in the field, and with him, as the source states, 8000 men. The 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. After that, a short interval of peace followed, and its happiest effects were felt by the town of Galway. The victorious De Burgos now had no enemy able to contend against them. They ruled the entire province from the Shannon to the sea and made Galway the chief point where all their power centred, and where the principal heads of the family resided. Trade, buildings, and inhabitants all increased rapidly. The church of Saint Nicholas was founded in 1320, and many other useful improvements were made. But the peace of the town was soon disturbed by deadly disputes between rival families.

55. Galway grand jury reports friar settlements, 1715

    Galway · city · Galway · 1715

    At the Galway assizes commenced on 29 March 1715, the county grand jury represented to the lords justices that great numbers of popish priests and friars had come into the kingdom within the previous four years and settled themselves at various locations across the county.

    Read the passage

    3 These persecutions commenced in the reign of William III. On 25th October, 1701. Francis Gwyn, then secretary of state, wrote to the mayor of Galway as follows: — "Sir, my lord lieutenant having received information that two friars, lately landed at Galway out of a French ship, arrived in that port, and that two post-days have since passed without any account thereof being sent from you, his excellency has commanded me to let' you know he is not well pleased with your remissness in not advising him with the land ing of any person at your port, contrary to the laws of this kingdom, and expects you will forthwith send up an account to me, if those two friars have been seized, according to act of parliament, and are in custody, and also what else has been done in that matter." — Orig. Letter. — Every reader is already acquainted with the severity of those laws during the reign of queen Anne. Immediately after the accession of her successor, the grand jury of the county of Galway, at an assizes commenced in the town on the 29th of March. 1715, represented to the lords justices "that great numbers of popish priests and friars, and other ecclesiasticks of the Romish persuasion had come into the kingdom within the last four years ; that the friars settled themselves in the following places in the county, viz. : Kilconnell. and in another place near Portumna ; as also in Toir.ona. near the abbey of Kinelehan ; in Ross, near Headford ; in Loughrea, in the abbey of Milick ; and in Kilneschael. near the abbey of Athenry ; that the great discouragement given, in the close of the last reign, by the men then in power, to such as were active in suppressing all friaries, and put-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 209

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are travelling through a city that in 1715 was at the centre of official alarm about friars settling across the county. The trouble had roots years earlier. In 1701, the secretary of state Francis Gwyn wrote sharply to the mayor of Galway, saying the lord lieutenant was not well pleased that two friars had lately landed out of a French ship and that no account had been sent. He demanded to know whether the friars had been seized according to act of parliament and what else had been done. At the assizes commenced in Galway on 29 March 1715, the county grand jury represented to the lords justices that great numbers of popish priests and friars, and other ecclesiasticks of the Romish persuasion, had come into the kingdom within the last four years. They reported that the friars had settled themselves in several places across the county: Kilconnell, and another place near Portumna; Toirona near the abbey of Kinelehan; Ross near Headford; Loughrea in the abbey of Milick; and Kilneschael near the abbey of Athenry. The grand jury also noted that great discouragement had been given, in the close of the last reign, by the men then in power, to those who had been active in suppressing friaries.

56. John Joyes of Oxford, Mayo elected warden

    Oxford · townland · Mayo · 1770–1783

    Following Francis Kirwan's death in June 1770, Reverend John Joyes of Oxford in County Mayo was elected warden. He served until his death in February 1783, remembered for zeal in reproving public vice and immorality.

    Read the passage

    Warden Bermingham died in 1 747, universally regretted. He was succeeded by the reverend Hyacinth Bodkin, a pious and learned divine, who survived but a short time, having died in the year 1749. On his death the reverend Marcus Kir wan, of Dalgan, was elected; but this gentleman having given some dissatisfaction to the lay-patrons, the reverend Anthony Blake, of Dunmacreena (who was afterwards titular archbishop of Armagh and Catholic primate of Ireland), was elected in his place : and this, it is said, was the only instance in which any of the wardens had been dispossessed since the Reformation. Doctor Blake erected the parish chapel in Middle-street about 1752, and was succeeded in 1755 by Francis Kirwan, who filled the chair with honour to himself and benefit to the town until his death, which happened in June, 1770; when the reverend John Joyes, of Oxford, in the county of Mayo, was elected. This gentleman continued warden until February, 1783, when he departed this life, leaving behind him the reputation of a good and pious pastor, always zealous in the cause of religion, and particularly so in the reproval of public vice and immorality. He was succeeded by the reverend Augustine Kirwan,6 a divine possessed of every virtue which adorns the clerical character, and whose piety, meekness, and unceasing benevolence will be long remembered. Amongst many other praiseworthy acts, he established a subscription fund, and founded a school for the instruction and clothing of indigent boys, in which numerous poor children are still carefully taught the rudiments of education and the

    cedi solitas Suffragan eis Episcopis, dispensandi in gradibus prohibitis, turn affinitatis, quoties tales casus occurrent.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 210

57. Turlogh O'Connor builds bridges in Connaught

    Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1130

    Around 1130, Turlogh O'Connor, monarch of Ireland, built three bridges in Connaught, including one at Athlone over the Shannon and one at Dunlo on the river Suck.

    Read the passage

    11 Annals of Innisf alien and Lynch' s MSS. — In the same year were built, the castles of Dunlo, near Ballinasloe, and Cuii-maol, alias Guildony, in the county of Sligo ; and Turlogh O'Connor, monarch of Ireland, (who succeeded in 1130,) soon after built three bridges in Connaught, viz. Athlone, Athcrochta over the Shannon, and Dunlo, upon the river Suck. — Onn. Inisf.

    12 The heads of this ancient and noble Irish family were, from the earliest period, Toparchs of lar, or western Connaught, and they long struggled, with various success, against the power of the English. There appears frequent entries on the records during the reigns of Hen. III. and Edw. I. II. III. of Donachad

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 42

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Athlone, this river town carries a story from around 1130. Turlogh O'Connor, monarch of Ireland, built three bridges in Connaught not long after he came to power. One of them crossed the Shannon here at Athlone. The others went up at Athcrochta, also over the Shannon, and at Dunlo on the river Suck. The same period saw castles built at Dunlo near Ballinasloe and at Cuii-maol in County Sligo. It was a time of building and holding ground across the province.

58. 1731 penal visitation and mayor's return on Catholic clergy

    Galway · city · Galway · 1731

    In 1731, a severe penal visitation took place in Galway. The mayor made a return on that occasion documenting the state of the Catholic clergy in the town, illustrating the conditions they faced under the penal laws.

    Read the passage

    Fitz-Michael,2 the persecutions against the Catholics continued unabated. 3 The Catholic corporation, or "lay-patrons,'' however, from time to time assembled and elected the wardens and vicars; but these persecuted persons were repeatedly arrested and imprisoned for attempting to perform their clerical duties, insomuch that they were often obliged to officiate in the dead of the night, and not unfrequently to steal, disguised in woman's apparel, to visit the sick and dying. These severities, however, gradually declined; and, about the years 1725, the warden and vicars fitted up a chapel in a warehouse belonging to Anthony Bodkin, merchant, situate in Middle-street, where they, for the first time since the surrender of the town, publicly officiated. In 1731, the severe penal visitation, already described (p. 174) took place, and the subjoined extract from the return made by the mayor on that occasion will give the reader some idea of the state of the Catholic clergy in the town at that period. 4

    2 This warden received holy orders in 1679 at Salamanca in Spain, from Peter Salazar, bishop of that place. Before his election to the wardenship, he officiated as pastor of the Gate-quarter and Eastsuburbs.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 209

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this is a town where Catholic clergy endured long persecution. The Catholic lay-patrons kept electing wardens and vicars, but those clergy were repeatedly arrested and imprisoned for attempting to perform their duties. They often had to officiate in the dead of night, and not infrequently to steal, disguised in women's apparel, to visit the sick and dying. About 1725, the warden and vicars fitted up a chapel in a warehouse belonging to Anthony Bodkin, a merchant in Middle Street, where they publicly officiated for the first time since the surrender of the town. Then in 1731, a severe penal visitation took place, and the mayor made a return on that occasion documenting the state of the Catholic clergy in the town.

59. 1792 contest over church patronage in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1792

    During a contest in 1792 over the patronage of the collegiate church of Galway, the vicars and even the warden were said to have been unanimously of the opinion that modification of the patronage system had become necessary for the interest of religion in the town.

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    on which the right at present rests, yet any material change in the usual and ordinary manner of exercising it can only be effected by the interposition of the supreme ecclesiastical power and the sanction of the holy see, in order to render it valid and canonical. This opinion, however, which militated so forcibly against the exclusive privileges of the lay-patrons, neither coincided with their wishes nor met their approbation, although it has been confidently asserted that the vicars, and even the warden of the town, during the contest in 1792, had been unanimously of opinion, that some modification and arrangement in the constitution and exercise of this patronage had become highly necessary for the interest of religion in Gal way.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 214

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are moving through a town that in 1792 saw a sharp contest over the patronage of its collegiate church. The vicars and even the warden of the town were said to have been unanimously of the opinion that some modification of the patronage system had become highly necessary for the interest of religion. This view went against the exclusive privileges of the lay patrons, and it neither coincided with their wishes nor met their approbation. Any material change in how the patronage was exercised, it was held, could only be rendered valid and canonical by the interposition of the supreme ecclesiastical power and the sanction of the holy see.

60. Ardfry family raised to the peerage

    Ardfry · townland · Galway · 1800

    The family of Ardfry, descended from Sir Richard Blake, was elevated to the peerage in 1800. Joseph Henry Blake was created Lord Baron of Wallscourt in the kingdom of Ireland.

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    was sheriff of Connaught, Vicecomes ConacicB, 32 and 33 Edw. I, 23 he was also sheriff in 1306, and in 7 Edw. II. the king's writ issued, for arrearages of his account. — Rot. Mem. — The arms of this family were first borne by him and descended to his posterity. The family of Ardfry, descended from Sir Richard Blake, who was speaker or chairman, of the assembly of the confederate catholics of Ireland, at Kilkenny, in 1647, was raised to the dignity of the peerage, in the year 1800, in the person of Joseph Henry Blake, Esq. who was then created Lord Baron of Wallscourt, in the kingdom of Ireland. This widely extended name is, at present, divided into the opulent and respectable families of Ardfry, Ballyglunin, Belmont, Castlegrove, Corbally, Forbough, Fi enchfort, Hollypark, Killeencastle, Mace, Menlo, Merlinpark, Moorfield, Orancastle, Rahara or Annbally, Renville, (formerly of Lehinch, in Mayo,) Tully, Waterdale and Windfield, in the County of Galway; and Ballinafad, Brookhill, Garracloone, Milltown and Towerhill, in the County of Mayo.

    Arms. Argent, a fret, gules. Crest. A cat passant, gardant, proper. Motto. Virtus sola NobiHtat.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 15