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

1. 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.

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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

   As the companion tells it

   The town of Loughrea had a store-house holding arms in 1641. That autumn, Ulick, the fifth earl of Clanricarde, governor for life of the town and county of Galway, had returned to Ireland and was at his castle of Portumna when he heard of the troubles. He took every precaution for the security of the county. On the 28th of October he sent messengers to Galway, to Sir Richard Blake, with an account of the breaking out of the rebellion, and directions that the town should be strict and vigilant in its watch and guards. The mayor and council were told, arms and ammunition were supplied, orders went out to strengthen the town gates where they were weak and defective, and the guards and watches were doubled. On the 6th of November Clanricarde arrived and stayed two days. He put the town and fort in the best possible posture of defence, raised the two companies of the fort to 200 men, and directed the mayor and corporation to furnish it with provisions. To provide for his own company in Loughrea, he took out of the store-house 100 firelocks and as many pikes. More than half of these, upon trial, were found unserviceable. The consternation in the town was increased when the archbishop of Tuam deserted his castle and fled for refuge to the fort, and by the treacherous surprisal of 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 unanimously resolved, in the source's words, "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."

2. 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.

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   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

   Galway has a story in its stones at St. Nicholas' church. John Lynch Fitz-James was a native of this town, appointed bishop of Elphin by Queen Elizabeth in 1584. He held the see for 27 years. Then in 1611 he surrendered it, and was charged with wasting its revenues. It was said of him that he lived a concealed, and died a public papist. He lies buried in St. Nicholas' church. The record holds another Galway man who followed a similar path. In 1602, Roland Linche, another native of Galway, was appointed bishop of Clonfert. He too was 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 per annum. So two bishops from Galway, both leaving their sees under a cloud, their church property spent or signed away.

3. 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.

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   absence of Fedhlim made pretension to his territory, was taken prisoner and put to death; but the later, soon after driven to desperation, declared for Bruce; and, though he made several incursions on the English settlers in Connaught, he never was able to do any injury to Galway. Sir William Leigh de Burgh (who, in 1296, founded the Franciscan friary in Saint Stephen's island, outside the north gate of the town,) and Richard de Bermingham, the fourth baron of Athenry, 29 were sent against him. Fedhlim met them with a numerous army, and the most sanguinary engagement recorded in our history since the invasion was fought near Athenry, in the County of Galway, in which the native troops were signally defeated. Fedhlim, the last of his name who assumed sovereignty, fell in the field, and with him (as is stated) 8000 men. Fhe walls of Athenry are said to have been built from the spoils of the battle; and the power of the O'Conors, which here received its final blow, was totally destroyed.

   This signal defeat of the Irish, which effectually established the dominion of the English settlers in Connaught, was followed by a short interval of peace, the happiest effects of which were experiencd by the town of Galway. The victorious De Burgos, who had now no enemy able to contend against them, ruled the entire province from the Shannon to the sea : they made Galway the chief point wherein all their power centred, and in which the principal heads of the family resided; in consequence of which, its trade, buildings and inhabitants, continued rapidly to increase. The church of Saint Nicholas was founded in 1320, and many other useful improvements were made; but the peace of the town was, about that time, disturbed by some deadly disputes which arose between the rival families

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 51

   As the companion tells it

   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.

4. 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.

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   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.

5. 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.

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   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

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Oxford, this place was the home of a warden of Galway. The reverend Marcus Kirwan of Dalgan was elected warden, but having given some dissatisfaction to the lay-patrons, the reverend Anthony Blake of Dunmacreena was elected in his place. Blake was afterwards titular archbishop of Armagh and Catholic primate of Ireland, and this was said to be 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 in June 1770. On his death, the reverend John Joyes, of Oxford in the county of Mayo, was elected warden. This gentleman continued in that office 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, a divine possessed of every virtue which adorns the clerical character, whose piety, meekness, and unceasing benevolence would 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 were still carefully taught the rudiments of education.

6. 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.

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   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.

7. 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.

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   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.

8. 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.

9. 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

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Ardfry, a family was raised to the peerage in 1800. The Blakes of Ardfry descended from Sir Richard Blake, who served as speaker or chairman of the assembly of the confederate Catholics of Ireland at Kilkenny in 1647. The family had older roots. One of their line was sheriff of Connaught under Edward the First, in the 32nd and 33rd years of that reign, and again in 1306. Under Edward the Second, the king's writ issued against him for arrears of his account. It was this sheriff who first bore the arms of the family, and they passed to his posterity. In 1800, Joseph Henry Blake was created Lord Baron of Wallscourt in the kingdom of Ireland. The Blake name was widely spread, divided into numerous respectable families across the county of Galway and the county of Mayo.

10. Ballinduff Castle purchased and preserved on Lough Corrib

    Ballinduff · townland · Galway · 1688

    A family returned from Dountis near Foxford to County Galway in 1688 and purchased the castle and estate of Ballinduff from a Mr. Burke. The castle remained in perfect preservation, delightfully situated on the banks of Lough Corrib.

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    Dountis near Foxford in the County of Mayo, where his descendants remained until 1688. when they returned to the County of Galway, and purchased from a Mr. Burke, the castle and estate of Ballinduff, where the family lias ever since continued. This castle is still in perfect preservation, and is delightfully situated, on the banks of Lough Corrib. The late Archbishop Skerrett of Tuam, was descended from this family.

    The estate of Poulnarohmy. about a mile west of Galway, in possession of the Skerrett family for centuries, was acquired by purchase, from one of the ancient Irish sept of the O'Hallorans, who were the original proprietors of the entire district.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 24

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Ballinduff, a castle stands on the banks of Lough Corrib. A family that had been living at Dountis near Foxford in County Mayo returned to County Galway in 1688 and purchased the castle and estate from a Mr. Burke. They have continued there ever since. The castle is still in perfect preservation, delightfully situated. Archbishop Skerrett of Tuam was descended from this family.

11. Battle of Aughrim, 1691

    Aughrim · parish · Galway · 1691

    The Battle of Aughrim took place during the Williamite wars, as part of the sequence of events leading to the siege and surrender of Galway. The town ultimately surrendered on articles.

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    On the Restoration of Charles II. many of the new settlers disappear, and the old natives and former inhabitants return — Letters of the king to the lords justices, to restore them to their freedom and estates — Animosities and disputes between them and the new settlers — An instance of one of these contentions — Prejudice of the lords justices against the old natives — Opposition given to their claims — Excluded from corporate privileges, and finally expelled the town — New rules established — The corporation lands, with the charter and market duties, granted to Mrs. Elizabeth Hamilton — The earl of Essex, lord lieutenant, opposes the grant — His description of the decayed state of the town — Colonel Theodore Russell purchases the charter and market duties, and is elected mayor — The king grants a new charter, containing many ample privileges — Population of the town considerably diminished, and the houses falling to ruin — Many of the old natives give security and are permitted to return to the town — They are soon after obliged to depart, owing to the clamors and discontent of some members of the corporation — Address to the king, on his escape from the Rye-house conspiracy — Accession of James II. to the throne — The Catholic inhabitants return to the town, and made free of the corporation — Catholic clergy established in the town — New charter granted — Troubles begin, and the fortifications of the town repaired — Resolutions to adhere to km§ fames and his government — Protestant inhabitants removed out of the town — Battle of Aughrim — Siege of the town — It surrenders on articles — Treatment of the Roman Catholics — Fortifications built, to secure the conquest of the town and the islands.

    QN the restoration of Charles II. such of the new settlers in Galway as were distinguished for the violence of their principles, or their hatred

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 115

    As the companion tells it

    We're passing through the parish of Aughrim, in Galway. The battle was fought in 1691, during the Williamite wars. The years leading to it were marked by turmoil in Galway. After the Restoration of Charles the Second, old natives who had been displaced returned to the town, and disputes arose between them and the new settlers. The corporation lands, with the charter and market duties, were granted to Mrs. Elizabeth Hamilton. The earl of Essex, lord lieutenant, opposed the grant and described the decayed state of the town. Colonel Theodore Russell purchased the charter and market duties and was elected mayor. The king granted a new charter with ample privileges, but the population had considerably diminished and the houses were falling to ruin. When James the Second came to the throne, the Catholic inhabitants returned to Galway and were made free of the corporation. Catholic clergy were established in the town. The fortifications were repaired. The townspeople resolved to adhere to James and his government, and the Protestant inhabitants were removed out of the town. Then came the battle. The record gives no details of the fighting itself, only that it stood in the chain of events leading to the siege of Galway. After the battle, the town was besieged and surrendered on articles. The Roman Catholics received treatment the record notes but does not describe. Fortifications were then built to secure the conquest of the town and the islands.

12. Bequests to leper house and lands in Athnary

    Annaghdown · townland · Galway · 1508

    In his 1508 will, Dominick Lynch Fitz-John left lands and tenements in Athnary and £1 to the house of the lepers of Galway and Athnary. He also left funds to the poor-house of the town.

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    house which I purchased from Sabina Ymcrywiire, situate near the house of my brother, Peter Lynch, and all my lands and tenements in Athnary by me bought and possessed, as you will see in my book. —Item, 1 leave to every convent in Ireland 13s. 4d. — Item, to the convent of the monasteries of Galway £4. — Item, to the works of the chapel of the blessed Mary of the hill, in the west part of our town, £6, and to the poor in the poor-house of the families of our town, £1 13s. 4d. — Item, to the bouse of the lepers of Galway and Athnary, £1. — Item, for the repairs of our town £5, and foir the repairs of the holy cross of our church £1. — Item, I leave to be divided amongst the poor £20. — Item, to the poor on the day of my death twenty linen scarfs, and to the college one silver cup, weight eight ounces. — Rot. Pat. 25 Henry VIII.

    5 This and all the other grants, bulls and original documents mentioned in the following account of the church are now, amongst many others, in the possession of the author, who hopes to have them restored to its archives foir future preservation.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 193

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Annaghdown, in 1508, Dominick Lynch Fitz-John made his will. He left his house, bought from Sabina Ymcrywiire, near the house of his brother Peter Lynch, and all his lands and tenements in Athnary. His bequests reached wide. He left 13 shillings and 4 pence to every convent in Ireland, and £4 to the monasteries of Galway. He gave £6 to the works of the chapel of the blessed Mary of the hill, in the west part of the town. To the poor in the poor-house of the families of the town, he left £1 and 13 shillings and 4 pence. To the house of the lepers of Galway and Athnary, he left £1. He left £5 for repairs of the town, and £1 for repairs of the holy cross of the church. He left £20 to be divided among the poor, twenty linen scarfs for the day of his death, and one silver cup of eight ounces to the college.

13. Captain Cole's squadron ordered to Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1691

    After resolving to besiege Galway, Ginckle informed the lords justices of his determination, and they dispatched an express to Captain Cole, commanding a squadron cruising about the mouth of the Shannon, to sail with all expedition to Galway and offer conditions if the town made proposals. Cole arrived only after the town's surrender.

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    for his army, which had already been considerably reduced. For tnese reasons, he resolved to lose no time in commencing the siege, and made every necessary preparation for the purpose. He immediately informed the lords justices of his determination; and they dispatched an express to captain Cole, commander of a squadron then cruising about the mouth of the Shannon, to sail with all expedition to Galway; and empowered him to offer conditions, in case the town should make proposals; but he did not arrive until after its surrender, and was then ordered to return to his former station.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    Galway, here in 1691. Ginckle had resolved to besiege the town and told the lords justices, who sent an express to Captain Cole. Cole commanded a squadron cruising about the mouth of the Shannon, and they ordered him to sail with all expedition to Galway, empowered to offer conditions if the town made proposals. He did not arrive until after its surrender, and was then ordered to return to his former station.

14. Castle built at Menlo by Blake ancestor

    near Menlo · street · Galway · 1154–1189

    According to tradition, a member of the Blake family accompanied Strongbow to Ireland and built a castle at Menlo near Galway during the reign of Henry II. The Blakes of Galway are said to be descended from him.

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    This famiy is of British extraction, and, though the name seems derived from the Saxon, Blac, a colour; yet, Debrett, in his Baronetage says, "they are traditionally descended from Ap-lake, one of the knights of King Arthur's round table," and adds, "that in the reign of Henry II one of this family accompanied Strongbow, and after many exploits built himself a castle, at Menlo, near Galway." — Richard Caddell^ surnamed Blake, (from whom, according to Lynch's MS. the Blakes of Galway are descended,)

    21 According to those who include the ancient name of Deane, there were fourteen families, it is accordingly inserted in the accounts above given, and is also found in the following verse :

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 14

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Menlo stood a castle built by the Blake family. The Blakes were of British extraction, and Debrett's Baronetage says they are traditionally descended from "Ap-lake, one of the knights of King Arthur's round table." In the reign of Henry II, one of the family accompanied Strongbow, and after many exploits built himself a castle at Menlo near Galway. The Galway Blakes descend from Richard Caddell surnamed Blake.

15. Catholic merchants of Galway petition for reduction of charter duties

    Galway · city · Galway · 1684

    In 1684, Catholic merchants and traders of Galway, many of whom had been permitted to return, presented a memorial to the lord lieutenant and council for a reduction and settlement of the charter duties. A schedule was agreed upon between them and the corporation, under which these duties afterwards continued to be received.

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    For the five succeeding years very little worthy of observation occurred in the town, with the exception of a loyal congratulatory address presented' in 1683, by the corporation to CharlesII. on the escape of his majesty, and the duke of York, from the Rye-house conspiracy ;3 and a memorial in the year, 1684, from the Catholic merchants and traders, (many of whom had, in the interim, been permitted to return,) to the lord lieutenant and council, for a reduction and settlement of the charter duties, whereupon a certain schedule was agreed to between them, and the corporation, under which these duties afterwards continued to be received. 4 On the accession of James II. to the throne, the hopes of the proscribed Catholic natives of

    signment of his dwelling-house, which was converted into a tholsel.) These duties having become forfeited, and vested in the crown, were confirmed to Mathew Quih, "in consideration of his loyalty and sufferings," by patent dated 19th February, 1672, for 99 years; and although, as he stated, they were never granted to the corpo ration, yet they obstructed him m the receipt of them. He was therefore obliged to appeal to chancery, and accordingly obtained a decree on the first of June, 1675. to quit him in the possession. — Orig. Decree, Rolls Off.— In 1680, the corporation complained to the chancellor, that Quin, not content with his ^atent, had, by exacting beyond it, agumented to 3001. yearly, what, in 1641. was farmed for 181. and prayed relief. — Corporation Book B. — The affair was afterwards compromised between them. In 1685, the duties of the markets and the ingate and outgate customs were set for one year for 2101.— Id. C.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Galway now. In 1684, the Catholic merchants and traders of this town, many of whom had in the interim been permitted to return, presented a memorial to the lord lieutenant and council for a reduction and settlement of the charter duties. A schedule was agreed upon between them and the corporation, and under it these duties afterwards continued to be received. The charter duties had a troubled history behind them. They were forfeited and vested in the crown, then confirmed to Mathew Quin by patent dated 19 February 1672, for 99 years, in consideration of his loyalty and sufferings. Quin said they were never granted to the corporation, yet they obstructed him in the receipt of them. He appealed to chancery and obtained a decree on 1 June 1675 to quiet him in the possession. In 1680, the corporation complained to the chancellor that Quin, not content with his patent, had exacted beyond it, augmenting to 300 yearly what in 1641 was farmed for 18, and prayed relief. The affair was afterwards compromised between them. In 1685, the duties of the markets and the ingate and outgate customs were set for one year for 210.

16. Chapels and altars of St. Nicholas's Church before the Reformation

    Galway · city · Galway

    The church of St. Nicholas in Galway contained at least fourteen chapels and altars before the Reformation, including the high altar of St. Nicholas in the choir, the altar of Jesus Christ in the chapel of Christ, the altar of St. Mary Major in the ancient chapel of the Lynches, and others dedicated to St. Michael, St. James, St. Catherine, St. John the Baptist, St. Bridget, St. Martin, the Blessed Sacrament, St. Anne, St. Patrick, and the Holy Trinity.

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    The magnificence of the church before the Reformation (which was partially revived at this period, may be estimated from the number of chapels and altars which it contained, and in almost the entire of which divine service was often celebrated at the same time — 1. the highaltar of St. Nicholas, in the choir — 2. the altar of Jesus Christ, in the chapel of Christ, judging at the right of the entrance to the choir — 3. the altar of St. Michael, in the chapel of the Guardian Angels, between that of Christ and chapel of St. Mary Major— 4. the altar of St. Mary Major, in the ancient chapel of the Lynches — 5. the altar of the Blessed Mary, in the new and great' chapel of the Blessed Mary, on the south wing of the

    church, under the title of the Blessed Mary, Mother of God— 6. the altar of St. James, at the south column of the church — 7. the altar of St. Catherine, in her gilt chapel, opposite the altar of St. John the Baptist — 8. the altar of St. John the Baptist, joined to the column of the pulpit— 9. the altar of St. Bridget, at the north column — 10. the altar of St. Martin, near the north gate — 11. the altar of the Blessed Sacrament, in the altar dedicated to it. in the north part of the church — 12. the altar of St. Anne, in her chapel, in the north wing of the church — 13. the altar of St. Patrick, in his chapel, originallv dedicated to him — 14. the altar of the Holy Trinity in its chapel, at the right of the entrance to the choir, under the organ. — Old Map.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 202

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the church of St. Nicholas once held a richness that is hard to picture now. Before the Reformation, its scale could be measured by the number of chapels and altars it contained, and in almost all of them divine service was often celebrated at the same time. There were at least fourteen. The high altar of St. Nicholas stood in the choir. The altar of Jesus Christ stood in the chapel of Christ, just at the right of the entrance to the choir. The altar of St. Michael stood in the chapel of the Guardian Angels, between that of Christ and the chapel of St. Mary Major. The altar of St. Mary Major stood in the ancient chapel of the Lynches. The altar of the Blessed Mary stood in the new and great chapel of the Blessed Mary, on the south wing of the church, under the title of the Blessed Mary, Mother of God. The altar of St. James stood at the south column of the church. The altar of St. Catherine stood in her gilt chapel, opposite the altar of St. John the Baptist. The altar of St. John the Baptist was joined to the column of the pulpit. The altar of St. Bridget stood at the north column. The altar of St. Martin stood near the north gate. The altar of the Blessed Sacrament stood in the north part of the church. The altar of St. Anne stood in her chapel, in the north wing of the church. The altar of St. Patrick stood in his chapel, originally dedicated to him. And the altar of the Holy Trinity stood in its chapel, at the right of the entrance to the choir, under the organ.

17. Clergy assemble at Jamestown in County Leitrim

    Jamestown · townland · Leitrim · 1650

    On 6 August 1650, clergy assembled at Jamestown in County Leitrim. The writer of a dispatch cited in the text, John Dowly, was proctor for the chapter and clergy of Tuam on this occasion.

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    merlie taken in the skirmish at Ballymote. manifestativa de jure regni Hiberniae pro " The relief sent out of the North is Catholicis Hibernis adversus hereticos," come to Sligoe, of which it stands us (and have seen brief notes of the matter much upon to beware, and not to sleepe oontayned in it, full of venemous and but rather stand to the matter stiflie. virulent doctrines, and damnable treasons The forces of this country are at Strade, against our king and country,) hath been where they intend to remain until further lately printed and published, most malidirection. General Taffe writes that it oiouslye intending to distracte and alienT is most requisite that the provincial ate the hearts of his majesty's faithful counsed doe meet in all haste, to lay down catholique subjects of Ireland from their a course to keep off the Scotch tyrants, bounden and dutiful allegiance and I wrote to you yesterday, desiring your obedience to their undoubted lawful attendance at Tuame, the 4th of the next *overaigne lord and king, Charles, that month, and now once again I give you now is king of Great Britain, France and notice to be there then or the day afore, Ireland; and that divers copies of the said viz. next Monday, otherwise you may books are dispersed into several partes of repent ; and so much distracted and this kingdome ; and albeit wee have made restlesse, I am yours, John Dowly. — diligent search for finding out the said Neale, 31st October, 1645. — Orig. MS. — booke. and for learning who might be the The writer of this dispatch was one of the true author of soe pestilent a worke, we clergy who assembled at James' town, in have not as yet attained to our desires in the county of Leitrim, on the memorable that behalf e, but do expect that our in- 6th of August, 1650, on which occasion tentions therein will shortly take effecte. he was proctor for the chapter and clergy Wherefore, in the interim, (by way of of Tuam. prevention, in manifestation of our zeal,

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 101

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Jamestown, clergy assembled on the 6th of August, 1650. John Dowly was among them, serving as proctor for the chapter and clergy of Tuam on that occasion. Five years earlier, Dowly had written a dispatch from Neale, dated the 31st of October, 1645. He reported that relief sent from the North had come to Sligo, and warned that the situation demanded vigilance. The forces of the country were at Strade, where they intended to remain until further direction. General Taffe had written that it was most requisite for the provincial council to meet in haste, to lay down a course to keep off what Dowly called the Scotch tyrants. Dowly had written the day before requesting attendance at Tuam on the 4th of the next month, and again gave notice to be there on that day or the day before, next Monday. Those who failed to come might repent, he wrote, and signed himself, in the words of the source, "yours, John Dowly." The passage also records concern over a book that had lately been printed and published, described as "full of venemous and virulent doctrines, and damnable treasons against our king and country." It was said to aim at distracting and alienating the hearts of his majesty's faithful Catholic subjects of Ireland from their allegiance and obedience to their sovereign lord and king, Charles, then king of Great Britain, France and Ireland. Divers copies of the book had been dispersed into several parts of the kingdom. Despite diligent search for the book and its true author, they had not yet attained their desires, but expected their intentions would shortly take effect.

18. Colonel Purcell condemns Governor Bellasyse in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1691

    Colonel Toby Purcell, stationed in Galway, openly arraigned the conduct of Governor Sir Henry Bellasyse, warning the lords justices that his unpopularity and covetousness would produce mischief. Purcell recommended a proclamation of security to encourage people to bring in provisions, as they were deterred through fear from doing so.

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    19. Clarke's Correspondence. — Colonel Toby Pureell, who was all this time in the town, openly arraigned the conduct of the governor, and, on the 2nd of August, informed the lords justices, "that as long as Sir Henry Bellasyse remains in Galway, his unpopularity and covetousness will produce mischief." He then recommended a proclamation of security to be issued, to encourage the people to bring in provisions, which they were then deterred through fear from doing. — Id. — Col. Pureed, who, on all occasions, appears to have stood forth an advocate for moderate measures,, by letter of the 6th of September following, complained to general Ginckle of the conduct of Edward Eyre, one of the governors of the county of Galway, describing him as "the unfittest man in the country to be in that station, and am much afraid his violent proceedings will ruin that side of the country. He violated protections, and asserted that the articles of Galway signi-

    fied but little, being against an act of parliament, and that their excellencies did not understand the law." Same collection. — These remonstrances, however, were unavailable, and the outrages complained of were suffered to go on with impunity

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 133

    As the companion tells it

    In Galway, in 1691, Colonel Toby Purcell was in the town, and he openly arraigned the conduct of the governor, Sir Henry Bellasyse. On the 2nd of August he informed the lords justices that as long as Sir Henry Bellasyse remained in Galway, his unpopularity and covetousness would produce mischief. Purcell recommended a proclamation of security to be issued, to encourage the people to bring in provisions, which they were then deterred through fear from doing. He appears on all occasions to have stood forth an advocate for moderate measures. On the 6th of September he wrote to General Ginckle, complaining of the conduct of Edward Eyre, one of the governors of the county of Galway. He described Eyre as the unfittest man in the country to be in that station, and said he was much afraid his violent proceedings would ruin that side of the country. Eyre had violated protections and asserted that the articles of Galway signified but little, being against an act of parliament, and that their excellencies did not understand the law. These remonstrances were unavailing, and the outrages complained of were suffered to go on with impunity.

19. Corn Market removed to Meyrick-square

    Galway · city · Galway · 1810

    The Galway corn market was moved from Market-street to the little green near Meyrick-square on 29 September 1810. Two weekly markets were held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with the Saturday market being the better supplied and attended.

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    The corn market has been held since the 29th September, 1810, at the little green near Meyrick -square, to which place it was at that time removed from Market-street. The quantity and quality of the grain annually disposed of will be found in a preceding section (II. 2). A suitable market-

    40 For the punctual payment of these having heen strictly adhered to; has made

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 247

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Galway, where the corn market was moved from Market-street to the little green near Meyrick-square on the 29th of September 1810. Two markets were held each week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with the Saturday one better supplied and attended.

20. Dangan, former Martin family seat, in decay

    near Dangan · street · Galway

    Dangan, the former seat of the Martin family, was universally acknowledged to be one of the most delightful residences in the kingdom. In recent years, however, it had been allowed to go considerably to decay.

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    There are several fine seats in the vicinity of Galway. Of these the principal are : — Ardfry, the beautiful seat of the right honorable lord Wallscourt, situate near the new harbour, to which vessels resort from the road of Galway in tempestuous weather and ride in perfect safety; Tyrone House, the seat of Arthur Ffrench St. George, esq., which commands a charming prospect of the bay of Galway and the islands of Arran; Renvile, the seat of Philip Lynch Athy, esq.; Oranmore Castle, the residence of Walter Blake, esq.; Frenchfort, the seat of Michael Blake, esq.; Merlin Park, the fine seat of Charles Blake, esq., adjacent to the ruined castle of Doughisky; Well Park, the seat of Mr. Macnamara; Merview, the seat of Mr. Joyce; Menlo Castle, the ancient residence of the Blake family; Dangan, the former seat of the Martin family (this was universally acknowledged to be one of the most delightful residences in the kingdom, but it has of late years been suffered to go considerably to decay); Newcastle, the property of Robert Perssc, esq., conveniently situated near the river, opposite the ruined castle of Terrilan, the once noble residence of the earls of Clanricarde; Rahoon, the seat of James Bodkin, esq.; West Lodge, the seat of our late venerable and respected recorder, James O'Hara, esq.; Barna, the highly improved and elegant seat of Marcus Blake Lynch, esq., which for situation and beauty of prospect stands unrivalled.

    Galway gives the title of viscount to the noble family of Moncton.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 254

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Dangan stood the former seat of the Martin family. It was universally acknowledged to be one of the most delightful residences in the kingdom, but of late years it had been suffered to go considerably to decay. What was once among the finest houses near Galway is now only a memory of what it had been.

21. Diocese of Annaghdown perpetually united to Tuam

    Annaghdown · townland · Galway · 1484

    The papal bull of 1484 notes that the see of Annaghdown had been perpetually united to the see of Tuam, whose archbishop Donatus served as prelate of both. The parish of St. Nicholas in Galway fell within the diocese of Annaghdown.

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    Innocent, bishop, servant of the servants of God, etc. We, exercising the office of a watchful sentinel, as it is granted to us from above, over the Lord's flock, committed by the divine power to our vigilance, do willingly mind thos3 things by which divine worship is augmented, and the salvation of souls is hoped to proceed from ; and we cheerfully add the strength of our power to such measures as we have found out these providentially to have sprung from ; to the end that they may last the firmer uncorrupted, by being the more strengthened : and for as much as a petition hath been lately preferred unto us, on behalf of our beloved children, all the parishioners of the parish church of Saint Nicholas of the town of Galway, in the diocese of Annaghdown, setting forth that our venerable brother, Donatus, archbishop of Tuam, who is knovvn to be prelate of the see of Annaghdown, perpetually united to the see of Tuam, had some time ago seriously considered that the parishioners of the said church of Saint Nicholas were modest and civil people, and that they lived in the said town, surrounded with walls, not following the customs of the mountainous and wild people of those parts, and that by reason of the impetrations or provisions of the aforesaid mountainous and wild people, to the vicarage of the said church of St. Nicholas, before commonly governed by vicars, they were so much disturbed that they could not assist at divine service, nor receive the holy sacraments according to the English decency, rite and custom, which the aforesaid inhabitants

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 261

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, the diocese of Annaghdown had been united to Tuam. In 1484, Pope Innocent, calling himself bishop and servant of the servants of God, issued a bull. He wrote that he willingly minded those things by which divine worship was augmented and the salvation of souls hoped to proceed, and that he added the strength of his power to such measures as he found had providentially sprung, so they might last the firmer. The bull notes that the union of the two sees was perpetual, and that Donatus, the archbishop of Tuam, was known to be prelate of both. A petition had been brought to the Pope on behalf of all the parishioners of the parish church of Saint Nicholas, in the town of Galway, within this diocese. Donatus had some time ago seriously considered that these parishioners were modest and civil people, living in their town surrounded by walls, not following the customs of what the bull calls "the mountainous and wild people of those parts." But those mountainous and wild people had been obtaining provisions to the vicarage of the church of Saint Nicholas, which before had been commonly governed by vicars. This so disturbed the parishioners that they could not assist at divine service, nor receive the holy sacraments according to the English decency, rite and custom that the inhabitants followed.

22. Dutch ship Seven Stars sails from Kilcolgan to France

    Kilcolgan · townland · Galway · 1650

    At the same time as Ormonde's departure, a large Dutch ship called the Seven Stars sailed from Kilcolgan and arrived at a port in France.

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    The town was no sooner freed from this dreadful visitation, than it became involved in all the distracting politics of th« times. The marquis of Ormond, having determined upon leaving the kingdom, arrived here in the beginning of December, accompanied by lord Inchiquin, colonels Vaughan, Wogan, Warren, and about twenty other persons of distinction, all of whom sailed from Glaneinagh, in the bay, on board the Elizabeth, of Jersey, a small frigate of twenty-four guns, and, after a hard passage of three weeks, landed at Perose, in Basse Bretagne. At the same time, a large Dutch ship, called the Seven Stars, sailed from Kilcolgan, which arrived at another port in France. The marquis of Clanricarde. who succeeded as lord deputy, soon after arrived in town, and knighted the mayor, Sir Oliver Oge French; but he could not, however, prevail on the inhabitants to admit a garrison, or any number of troops, but what should be entirely under their own control.

    In the latter end of February, Stephen de Henin, abbe of St. Catherine, and ambassador from the duke of Lorrain, arrived in the bay of Galway, with offers of assistance and relief for the nation. The marquis of Clanricarde, as soon as he was apprised of his coming, repaired to

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 104

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Kilcolgan, in the beginning of December 1650, a large Dutch ship called the Seven Stars set sail for France. She left at the same time the Marquis of Ormond was departing the kingdom, though from a different spot. Ormond and about twenty persons of distinction, including Lord Inchiquin and Colonels Vaughan, Wogan and Warren, sailed from Glaneinagh in the bay on board the Elizabeth of Jersey, a small frigate of 24 guns, and after a hard passage of three weeks landed at Perose in Basse Bretagne. The Seven Stars from Kilcolgan arrived at another port in France. The Marquis of Clanricarde succeeded as lord deputy soon after and arrived in town, where he knighted the mayor, Sir Oliver Oge French, but could not prevail on the inhabitants to admit a garrison or any number of troops except what should be entirely under their own control.

23. Edmond Skerrett expelled from Headford castle by Cromwell, 1641

    Headford · town · Galway · 1641–1654

    Edmond Skerrett, ancestor of the Ballinduff family and head of the name, resided in 1641 at the Castle of Ath-kin or Headford. He was expelled by Cromwell, and his castle and estate were transferred to Hartley St. George, while Skerrett and his family were transplanted elsewhere.

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    12 Edmond Sk'errett, ancestor of the family of Ballinduff, and head of the name, resided, in 1641, at the Castle of Ath-kin or Headford ; he was expelled by Cromwell, and his castle and estate transferred to Hartley St. George. Mr. Skerret and his family were transplanted to

    &2 HISTORY OF GAL WAY.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 24

    As the companion tells it

    Headford, a town the road passes through or near, was home in 1641 to Edmond Skerrett, head of the name and ancestor of the Ballinduff family. He lived in the Castle of Ath-kin. Cromwell expelled him. His castle and estate were transferred to Hartley St. George, and Skerrett and his family were transplanted elsewhere.

24. Ffont family established in Athenry under King John

    Athenry · town · Galway · 1199–1216

    The Ffont or De Fuente family, of English Leicestershire origin, was said to have been established in Athenry as early as the reign of King John. They settled in Galway in the early fifteenth century, and Geoffry Ffont, who died near Galway in 1814 aged 105, was the last survivor of the Galway branch.

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    This family settled in Galway in the beginning of the fifteenth century, they sprung from an ancient English family of Leicestershire, and, are said, to have been established in Athenry, in the County of Galway, as early as the reign of King John. 34 The name is now nearly extinct. Geoffry Ffont, who died near Galway, in 1814, aged 105 years, is supposed to have been the last survivor of the Galway branch of this family.

    Arms. Argent, semee of cross crosslets, a lion rampant, sable. Crest.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 19

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Athenry, the Ffont family, or De Fuente, was said to have been established as early as the reign of King John, between 1199 and 1216. They came from an old English family in Leicestershire, and later settled in Galway in the early fifteenth century. The name is now nearly extinct. Geoffry Ffont, who died near Galway in 1814 aged 105, is thought to have been the last survivor of the Galway branch.

25. Firbolg flight to Aran after the battle of Muireadh

    near Aran Islands · island or archipelago · Galway

    On the invasion of Ireland by the Tuatha de Danann, the Firbolgs fled to the isles of Arran and other isles round the coast after the battle of Muireadh, where they remained until expelled by the Picts after the provincial division of the island.

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    On the invasion of Ireland by the Tutha de Danans, the Firbolgs, after the battle of Muireadh, fled to the isles of Arran and the other isles round the coast, where thev remained until they were expelled by the Cruithnigh, or Picts. after the provincial division of the island. — Leabhar Gabhala. — A.D. 250, these islands were governed by the tribe of Eoghan More, king of North Munster, and afterwards became the residence of St. Iber, one of the four bishops who, in A.D. 412 (before the arrival of St. Patrick), were sent to preach the Christian faith in Ireland. In the same century iEngus, king of Cashel, granted the great island of Arran to St. Endeus, who built ten monasteries and thirteen churches on it, the principal of which was afterwards, from him, called Kill-Enda. The island itself was soon after distinguished by the name of Ara na Naoimh, or Ara of the Saints ; and so great was the number of holy men ai>d hermits here interred, that the writer of the Life of St. Kieran declares they were known only to the Almighty God alone.— In qua in-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 258

    As the companion tells it

    The Aran Islands lie off the coast of Galway. After the invasion of Ireland by the Tuatha de Danann, the Firbolgs fled to these islands and others round the coast following the battle of Muireadh. They remained until they were expelled by the Cruithnigh, or Picts, after the provincial division of the island. In 250 these islands were governed by the tribe of Eoghan More, king of North Munster. They later became the residence of St. Iber, one of four bishops who, in 412, before the arrival of St. Patrick, were sent to preach the Christian faith in Ireland. In the same century, Engus, king of Cashel, granted the great island to St. Endeus, who built ten monasteries and thirteen churches on it. The principal of these was called Kill-Enda, after him. The island was soon distinguished by the name of Ara na Naoimh, Ara of the Saints. So great was the number of holy men and hermits interred that the writer of the Life of St. Kieran declares they were known only to the Almighty God alone.

26. Fortification built at Cean-na-bhalla, Galway quay

    Galway · city · Galway

    The point of Cean-na-bhalla at the quay in Galway was converted into a fortification and furnished with great guns. Part of the adjoining town walls was built at the expense of the corporation.

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    About this time several considerable works were raised for the defence and security of the town. The point of Cean-na-bhalla, at the quay, was converted into a fortification, and furnished with great guns; and a part of the adjoining walls was built at the expense of the corporation. The lord deputy, Russell, arrived here in 1595, and was received with great rejoicings ;1 ' he remained but a short time. The object of his journey seems to have been to inquire into the state of the town and province; and during his stay several complaints were made of the rigor and exactions of Sir Richard Bingham, the governor, for which he was afterwards removed. IS

    Soon after the departure of the lord deputy the northern Irish, led b> Hugh Ruadh O'Donnell, after destroying the castle of Enniskillen, penetrated into Connaught, and were joined by Tibbot M 'Walter Kittagh Bourke. (upon whom they conferred the title of Mac William,) and by several other powerful confederates. They commenced hostilities in January, 1596, and wasted, burned and destroyed almost the entire county of Galway. On the 15th of that month they invested Athenry, burned the gates, and entered the town; but being repulsed in an attack on the castle, which was bravely defended, and having failed in an attempt to scale the battlements, they took possession of all the wall-towers, and as many of the inhabitants as guarded them they made prisoners. They then set fire to the town, which, with the exception of the castle that resisted them, and the abbey and church, which alone were spared, was soon reduced to ashes. ^ After these

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 83

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes through Galway, the point of Cean-na-bhalla at the quay was converted into a fortification and furnished with great guns. Part of the adjoining town walls was built at the expense of the corporation. Lord Deputy Russell arrived here in 1595 and was received with great rejoicings. He remained only a short time, his purpose to inquire into the state of the town and province. During his stay, complaints were made about the rigor and exactions of Sir Richard Bingham, the governor, for which he was afterwards removed. Soon after Russell's departure, the northern Irish, led by Hugh Ruadh O'Donnell, having destroyed the castle of Enniskillen, penetrated into Connaught. They were joined by Tibbot Bourke, upon whom they conferred the title of Mac William, and by other confederates. In January 1596 they commenced hostilities, wasting, burning and destroying almost the entire county of Galway. On the 15th of that month they invested Athenry, burned the gates and entered the town. Repulsed in an attack on the castle, which was bravely defended, they took possession of the wall-towers and made prisoners of the inhabitants guarding them. They set fire to the town, which was reduced to ashes, with the exception of the castle that resisted them, and the abbey and church, which alone were spared.

27. Fortifications and curfew-bell introduced in Galway, 1498

    Galway · city · Galway · 1498

    In 1498, alongside the canal project, the curfew-bell was introduced in Galway and a considerable part of the fortifications from the shoemaker's-tower to the quay was built. These civic improvements reflected the new spirit infused by corporate regulations.

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    The corporate regulations already detailed infused new spirit and vigour among the inhabitants. Several useful and considerable works were now undertaken by the corporation; and, in the mayoralty of Andrew Lynch Fitz-Stephen, in 1498, the important communication from Lough-athalia to Poulavorline, which would have opened an easy passage from Lough-corrib to the sea, (and which is still so desirable,) was commenced, but never completed. The remains of this useful, but neglected, work are yet visible, and are distinguishd by the name of " Lynch' s Folly." In the same year the curfew-bell was introduced, and a considerable part of the fortifications from the shoemaker s-tower to the quay was bulit. These improvements were for a while impeded by an accidental fire which took place in 1500, and consumed a great part of the town. The inhabitants, however, soon repaired these losses, and afterwards, from time to time, beautified the town with several most superb structures, many of which remain entire to this day; bearing dates and inscriptions which generally contain the names of their founders, and denote the particular periods of their erection..

    The town had hitherto, for a considerable time, enjoyed the blessings of peace, except the predatory attempts of the Irish may be deemed exceptions; but William de Burgo, O'Brien of Thomond, M'Namara, O'Carroll and other chieftains, having in 1504 risen in arms, they suddenly invested and took possession of the town. Gearld, earl of Kildare, the lord deputy, assisted by O'Neal O'Donnell and others, marched against them with a considerable force : both armies met at the hill of Knoc-tuadh, about seven miles N.W. of Galway; and although the Irish army is stated to have been the most numerous that had asembled since the arrival of the English, it was routed with dreadful slaughter; Mac William and the other leaders were taken prisoners, and the towns of Galway and Athenry surrendered. 23

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 69

    As the companion tells it

    Galway in 1498 was a town newly animated by corporate regulations. Under the mayoralty of Andrew Lynch Fitz-Stephen, the corporation set in motion several useful and considerable works. The most ambitious was a canal from Lough-athalia to Poulavorline, meant to open an easy passage from Lough-corrib to the sea. It was commenced but never completed, and its remains were still visible long after, known by the name of Lynch's Folly. That same year saw two further improvements. The curfew-bell was introduced, and a considerable part of the fortifications running from the shoemaker's-tower to the quay was built. These works reflected a new spirit and vigour among the inhabitants. Progress was halted briefly by a fire in 1500, which consumed a great part of the town, but the people soon repaired their losses and went on to beautify Galway with several superb structures, many still standing with dates and inscriptions bearing the names of their founders. The town had enjoyed peace for a considerable time, apart from predatory attempts by the Irish. That changed in 1504, when William de Burgo, O'Brien of Thomond, M'Namara, O'Carroll and other chieftains rose in arms, suddenly investing and taking possession of Galway. Gerald, earl of Kildare, the lord deputy, assisted by O'Neal, O'Donnell and others, marched against them with a considerable force. The armies met at the hill of Knoc-tuadh, about seven miles north-west of Galway. The Irish army was said to be the most numerous assembled since the arrival of the English, yet it was routed with dreadful slaughter. Mac William and the other leaders were taken prisoners, and the towns of Galway and Athenry surrendered.

28. Friars and nuns burial place with effigies

    Galway · city · Galway

    The centre of the Franciscan churchyard in Galway, where the old church chancel extended, served as the burial place for friars and nuns of St. Clare. Several monuments bear full-length effigies of friars holding chalices and nuns in their habits, with raised-letter inscriptions around the margins.

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    The centre of the yard, to which the chancel of the old church extended, is the place of interment of the friars of the order and also of the nuns of St. Clare, of the Franciscan observance. There are several monuments with raised, fulllength effigies of some of the friars, dressed in their habits, and of the nuns in their costume. The former bear a chalice in their hands, their shoes are high-heeled, and they wear the cap of their order ; uie inscriptions are generally in raised letters round the margin. On one of these the following is just legible :

    O Lord have mercy on the Soule of Father Thomas O'Maeony, who dyed the 28 of September, Anno Domini ( )

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 218

    As the companion tells it

    In Galway, the centre of the Franciscan churchyard, where the chancel of the old church once extended, served as the burial place for friars of the order and for the nuns of St. Clare. Several monuments there carry raised full-length effigies. The friars are shown in their habits, holding a chalice, wearing high-heeled shoes and the cap of their order. The nuns are shown in their costume. The inscriptions run in raised letters round the margin. On one of these the words are just legible: "O Lord have mercy on the Soule of Father Thomas O'Maeony, who dyed the 28 of September, Anno Domini."

29. Galway flour mills and wheat trade, 1790

    Galway · city · Galway · 1790

    The warm limestone soil around Galway produced wheat of the finest quality, which met a ready sale in the market. The flour trade increased considerably, yet in 1790 there were but two flour mills in the town, showing the recent growth of this branch.

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    What remains to be mentioned concerning the trades and manufactories carried on here will occupy but very little space : of these the flour business is the principal. The warm limestone soil of the country about Galway produces wheat of the finest quality, which meets a ready sale in the market, and this trade has consequently increased very considerably within the*last few years. In 1790 there were but two flour mills in the town.

    turf and potatoes until Michaelmas) , reckoned from 30s. to £2 per ton (though in truth, he says, it cannot be well ascertained, being combined with the rents of the lands), besides 5s. a ton for freight to Galway from the bays. "An able helper may make 3 tons ; the average is two or three men in one house, who may make from 7 to 8 tons in a season. The number employed would, therefore, appear to be 2,000. About 20 days' work are required to cut and land the weed for 1 ton ; the quantity of weed which makes one ton and a half is amply sufficient to manure an acre, which would be done at the rate of 45s. Seeing that the expense of carrying out the weed to the field is as great as that of drying ^and burning the kelp, so that many of the farmers find it more for their interest to employ the weed in agriculture ; this disposition is likely to become general in the present state of the markets, and seems deserving of encouragement. The benefit that would accrue to Connemara, from the transfer of manure and 1 at our to the improvement of the land, is perhaps not rated too high when we say it would annually produce as much as tlie present rental." — The author trusts he may be excused for thus extending these notes ; the important facts and conclusions which they contain is the only

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 232

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the flour trade was the principal business here. The warm limestone soil around the town grew wheat of the finest quality, and it sold readily in the market. The trade had grown considerably in the years leading up to 1790, yet by that year there were still only two flour mills in the town, a sign of how recent this growth was.

30. Galway's commercial wealth and isolation from native Irish

    Galway · city · Galway

    Galway's wealth grew through constant commerce with France and Spain, from which merchants annually imported vast quantities of wine. The principal inhabitants, connected by kindred and mutual interest, made it their great object to prevent any intercourse with the native Irish of the surrounding county, whose vindictive dispositions had deprived townspeople of their properties.

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    rpHE town of Galway having considerably increased in wealth and opulence during the last two centuries, (by its constant and gradually extending commerce with the nations of Europe, but particularly with France and Spain, from whence its merchants annually imported vast quantities of wine,) and the principal part of the inhabitants being connected together by the ties of kindred, (which were daily augmenting by frequent intermarriages,) and by the more powerful influence of mutual interest: 'the great and continual object of their care and solicitude was, to prevent any intercourse with the native Irish of the surrounding county, from whose vindictive dispositions (according to the accounts of the town) and implacable, though, perhaps, just, and often provoked, reaentment, many of the town's people had, from time to time, been deprived of their properties

    72

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 61

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in a town that grew wealthy over two centuries through commerce with France and Spain, from which merchants brought in vast quantities of wine every year. The leading families were bound together by kinship and frequent intermarriage, and by the stronger pull of shared interest. Their great concern was to keep any contact with the native Irish of the surrounding county at a distance. According to the town's own accounts, the resentment of those neighbours was implacable, though perhaps just and often provoked, and had cost many townspeople their properties over the years.

31. Galway's name linked to early Gael merchants and commerce

    Galway · city · Galway

    The town and district of Galway derived their name from the Gael, or merchants, who inhabited the area and were distinguished for trade and commerce from an early period. The name appears in ancient documents as 'Galvy' until around 1400, with the modern form 'Galway' first occurring about 1440.

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    Having thus far dwelt upon the etymology and orthography of the name of Galway, it is now time to conclude a disquisition which has already become tedious, leaving the reader fully at liberty to form or retain his own opinion on the subject. What has been collected, however, appears strongly to support the position, that the town of Galway and the district in which it is situate, were, from an early period, distinguished for trade and commerce, a circumstance from which they derive their name; and, when in addition to these, the excellent situation of the place, its local advantages, and many capabilities for foreign commerce, and inland traffick and navigation, 10 its noble bay, the finest perhaps in the kingdom, and the natural security of its harbour, shall be taken into consideration, power fully corroborative reasons will be found in favour of the same conclusion.

    A curious supposition has been entertained relative to the origina! formation of the bay of Galway, it is related, in one of the old Irish annals, that in the year of the world 1969, there were but three lakes of any conse quence in the whole island, namely, Loch-Foirdream, said to have been at Slievmis, near Tralee, in the County of Kerry, Finloch, the present Loughcarra, in the County of Mayo, and Loch-Lurgan, which is described as a spacious lake between the County of Clare and West Connaught, to the South of Galway, and extending a considerable distance towards the east. This lake is supposed to have been the present bay of Galway, which was once, say the annalists, separated from the ocean by strong banks, until the Atlantic bursting over them and uniting with the water within, formed

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    This is Galway. The town and the district around it took their name from the Gaels, the merchants, who lived here and were known for trade and commerce from an early period. The place itself helped that along. It had a fine situation, local advantages, and real capability for foreign commerce and for inland trade and navigation. Its bay is described as perhaps the finest in the kingdom, and its harbour had a natural security about it. All of this, the old account says, powerfully supports the conclusion that trade and commerce gave the place its name. There is also a curious supposition about how the bay itself was formed. One of the old Irish annals relates that in the year of the world 1969, there were only three lakes of any consequence in the whole island. One was Loch-Foirdream, said to have been at Slievmis, near Tralee, in the county of Kerry. The second was Finloch, the present Loughcarra, in the county of Mayo. The third was Loch-Lurgan, described as a spacious lake between the county of Clare and West Connaught, to the south of Galway, extending a considerable distance towards the east. This lake, the annalists said, is supposed to have been the present bay of Galway. It was once separated from the ocean by strong banks, until the Atlantic burst over them and united with the water within.

32. Galway townsmen refuse to sign surrender articles

    Galway · city · Galway · 1652

    On 26 October 1652, a significant number of Galway townsmen, including the mayor Marcus Lynch, sheriffs, aldermen, and prominent merchants, refused to sign the articles of surrender. The list includes dozens of named citizens from leading Galway families.

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    A note of the town's-men of Galway that refuse to sign. October 26th, 1652.

    Marcus Lynch, mayor. Alex. Lynche, W. Oge Mairtine, sheriffs. John Lynch. James Darcy,

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 279

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you're moving through a city with a stubborn history. On 26 October 1652, the townsmen here refused to sign the articles of surrender. The mayor, Marcus Lynch, the sheriffs, and merchants all held out. Their names were recorded, but not their signatures.

33. Galway Volunteers embodied, 1779

    Galway · city · Galway · 1779

    On 31 May 1779 the Galway Volunteers were embodied as a military unit, with Richard Martin of Dangan as colonel, James Shoe as lieutenant-colonel, and John Blake of Cooleun as major. Officers included men from prominent local Galway families and estates.

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    8 1779, May 31st,' the Galway Volunteers were embodied, and the following

    officers elected :

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 188

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this is where the Galway Volunteers were embodied on 31 May 1779. Richard Martin of Dangan was elected colonel, James Shoe lieutenant-colonel, and John Blake of Cooleun major. The officers came from prominent local families and estates across the town and county.

34. Jane Eyre's bequest for Protestant poor of St. Nicholas

    Galway · city · Galway · 1740–1754

    In 1740 and again in 1754, the widow Jane Eyre purchased annual sums from the Galway corporation for the support of Protestant poor in the parish of St. Nicholas. The corporation executed deeds binding themselves and successors for the punctual payment of these charities.

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    appear that the bequest has been ever fulfilled. Members of this respectable family have been frequently benefactors of the poor. In August, 1740, the widow, Jane Eyre, purchased from the corporation the sum of £12 annually for ever, "for the use of the Protestant poor of the parish of St. Nicholas;" and on the 3rd of July, 1754, the same benevolent lady made a similar purchase for the same laudable purpose. 40 In the year 1791, Mr. Kirwan, a London gentleman, descended from one of the Galway families, vested a considerable sum in trustees, and directed the interest to be divided on Christmas-eve annually for ever among distressed individuals of the Galway names, giving always the preference to his own poor relations. This donation has been judiciously applied to the purchase of an estate near the town, which will shortly produce about £100 a year, and the distribution of this sum will prove a considerable relief to many respectable, though reduced, families of the town.

    7. — Mendicants' Workhouse, or General Asylum.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 247

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the parish of St. Nicholas sits at the old heart of the city. In August 1740, the widow Jane Eyre purchased from the corporation the sum of £12 annually for ever, for the use of the Protestant poor of the parish of St. Nicholas. On the 3rd of July 1754, the same benevolent lady made a similar purchase for the same laudable purpose. The corporation bound themselves and their successors to the punctual payment of these charities. The Eyre family were frequent benefactors of the poor in Galway.

35. Kirwan family settlement in Galway under Henry VI

    Galway · city · Galway · 1422–1461

    The Kirwan family appear to have settled in Galway during the reign of Henry VI, when the name first occurs in its modern form with mention of William Kirwan and his children. The family produced notable figures including Dean Kirwan and Richard Kirwan of Cregg.

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    This name and family are Irish, and the heralds have gone very far back indeed to deduce their origin. They tell us, that Maoldabhreac, son of Fiobhrann, son of Finghin, descended from Heremon, second son of Milesius, was father of Ciorrovan or Kirrovan, from whom the Kirwans are descended.1 They appear to have settled in Galway, in the reign of Henry VI. about which time, the name first occurs in its modern form, mention being then made "of William Kirwan and his children. Some think them much more ancient, supposing them to be the family of Kirwicke, already enumerated amongst the more early inhabitants of the town; 2 and this supposition is very probable, as the orthography of the name has undergone various changes, viz. O'Quirivan, Kyrvan, Kerovan, Kirevane, &c. but it is now generally written Kirwan. To this name and family, Ireland is indebted for two individuals, of the first order of genius, men whose splendid talents have raised their native country to a most elevated point in the scale of literature and science; by those the reader may easiily anticipate, are meant the celebrated Dean Kirwan, and his distinguished relative and friend, the late Richard Kirwan, Esq. of Cregg; the former, acknowledged to have been the first christian orator of his day, and the latter, one of the greatest philosophers of the age in which he lived. Biographical accounts of these eminent men, will be found in another part of this volume. The families of Blindwell, Castlehackett, 3 Cregg, 4 Gardenfield, Glan, Hillsbrook

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    Galway is where the Kirwan family appear to have settled, during the reign of Henry the Sixth, when the name first occurs in its modern form, with mention of William Kirwan and his children. Some think them much more ancient, supposing them to be the family of Kirwicke, already counted among the earlier inhabitants of the town. That supposition is very probable, as the spelling of the name has changed over the centuries: O'Quirivan, Kyrvan, Kerovan, Kirevane, but it is now generally written Kirwan. The heralds trace the family far back. They say that Maoldabhreac, son of Fiobhrann, son of Finghin, descended from Heremon, the second son of Milesius, was father of Ciorrovan, or Kirrovan, from whom the Kirwans are descended. To this name and family, Ireland is indebted for two individuals of the first order of genius. The celebrated Dean Kirwan, acknowledged to have been the first Christian orator of his day, and his distinguished relative and friend, Richard Kirwan of Cregg, called one of the greatest philosophers of the age in which he lived. The families of Blindwell, Castlehackett, Cregg, Gardenfield, Glan, and Hillsbrook also appear in the record.

36. Kirwan preferred to Deanery of Killala

    Killala · town · Mayo · 1800

    In 1800, Walter Blake Kirwan was promoted to the moderate deanery of Killala. He died near Dublin in 1805, leaving his family poorly provided for until a pension was granted by the crown.

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    Galway in 1754, and vets educated in the Jesuits' College at St. Omer's. At the age of 17 he went to the island of St. Croix, in the West Indies, where he remained six years. On his return to Europe he was sent by his maternal uncle (doctor Anthony Blake, titular primate of Ireland) to the university of Lovain, where he received priest's orders, and was promoted to the chair of natural and moral philosophy. In 1778, he was appointed chaplain to the Neapolitan ambassador of the British court; and in the gay circles of London it is said that he first formed the idea of embracing the Protestant religion. After some years he returned to Ireland, and, in 1787, conformed to the established church. This event proved a source of unbounded regret to his numerous and respectable friends and relations. His brother, an exemplary Catholic clergyman in Galway, is said to have died of grief, originally occasioned by the circumstance ; but his uncle the archbishop bore it more philosophically. When the latter was informed that his nephew had changed his religion, "Tut, man," replied the old prelate, "he had no religion to change;" but this may be reasonably attributed to resentment. It could not be denied, however, that the new convert brought z considerable accession of talent to the church which -he had chosen. His fame soon blazed forth with a lustre unprecedented in the annals of pulpit eloquence, and his powerful talents were always made subservient to the saored cause of charity. Though the powers of human persuasion were never more successfully employed, the worldly rewards of the preacher were comparacively mean and trifling. In 1798 he was appointed prebend of Howth and rector of the parish of St. Nicholas Without, in Dublin ; and his highest ecclesiastical promotion was the moderate deanery of Killala, to which he was preferred in the year 1800. He died on 27th October, 1805, near Dublin, leaving a wife and four children very ill provided for, until his late majesty was pleased to grant his widow a pension of £300 a year. A volume of the dean's sermons, published in London in 1814, for the benefit of his family, does not appear to have added much to his fame.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 256

    As the companion tells it

    Killala is the town you are passing through or near. In 1800, Walter Blake Kirwan was preferred to the moderate deanery of this place. His path there was a long one. Born in Galway, educated at the Jesuits' College at St. Omer's, he went at seventeen to the island of St. Croix in the West Indies, where he stayed six years. On his return to Europe, his maternal uncle, Doctor Anthony Blake, titular primate of Ireland, sent him to the university of Louvain. There he received priest's orders and was promoted to the chair of natural and moral philosophy. In 1778 he was appointed chaplain to the Neapolitan ambassador at the British court, and in the gay circles of London, it is said, he first formed the idea of embracing the Protestant religion. In 1787 he returned to Ireland and conformed to the established church. His brother, an exemplary Catholic clergyman in Galway, is said to have died of grief occasioned by the circumstance. His uncle the archbishop bore it more philosophically. When informed that his nephew had changed his religion, the old prelate replied,

37. Knockmoy Abbey revenues assigned to St. Nicholas, Galway

    Knockmoy · townland · Clare · 1484

    The Cistercian monastery of Knockmoy in the diocese of Tuam had long provided a half quarter of revenues to the incumbents of St. Nicholas, Galway. Archbishop Donatus applied these fruits and rents toward the support of the new collegiate church's warden and eight priests in 1484.

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    and their ancestors always used; they bsing much disquieted therein, and sometimes robbed of their goods, and killed by those unlearned men, and also that they were obliged to sustain many other damages and inconveniences, both in person and substance, from them, and feared to suffer more for the future, if not speedily succoured. This matter being providently considered, the said Donatus, at the humble request of the said parishioners, has constituted and erected, by his proper authority, the aforesaid church of Saint Nicholas into a collegiate, and therein a college of one warden and eight priests, and for their support he hath applied the fruits, rents and incomes of the said vicarage, and the half quarter which the incumbents of the said church of Saint Nicholas had been, for a long time, accustomed to have from our beloved children, the abbot and convent of the monastery of Knockmoy, of the Cistercian order, and diocese of Tuam ; he has also appropriated to the capitular table of the said church of Saint Nicholas, other goods, rents, lands, tythes, rights and services then expressed by him the said archbishop, and by some of said parishioners bestowed, providentally considering that the said premises were scarcely sufficient to support, decently, four of the said priests. — It was his will, that whatever any of the said parishioners might chance to bestow for the future, should belong in full right to the said church of Saint Nicholas ; and he has likewise so united, annexed and incorporated for ever to the said church of Saint Nicholas, the vicarage of the parish church of Saint James of Balenclear (Clare-Galway) , of the said diocese of Annaghdown, by consent of the vicar thereof, for the sustenance of the warden and eight priests aforesaid, in the said church of Saint Nicholas ; and by the same

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 261

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here stood the Cistercian monastery of Knockmoy, in the diocese of Tuam. Its abbot and convent had long provided a half quarter of revenues to the incumbents of the church of Saint Nicholas in Galway. In 1484, Archbishop Donatus applied those fruits and rents to a new purpose. The parishioners of Saint Nicholas had come to Donatus in trouble. They were disquieted, sometimes robbed of their goods, sometimes killed by men he called unlearned. They feared worse to come if they were not speedily succoured. At their humble request, Donatus used his own authority to constitute their church into a collegiate, establishing a college of one warden and eight priests. For their support, he applied the fruits, rents and incomes of the vicarage, and the half quarter the incumbents of Saint Nicholas had long been accustomed to receive from the abbot and convent of Knockmoy. He also appropriated other goods, rents, lands, tythes, rights and services, some expressed by the archbishop himself and some bestowed by the parishioners. Yet he noted, providently, that all these premises were scarcely sufficient to support decently four of the said priests. He willed that whatever any parishioner might bestow in future should belong in full right to the church of Saint Nicholas. He likewise united, annexed and incorporated forever the vicarage of the parish church of Saint James of Balenclear, Clare-Galway, in the diocese of Annaghdown, by consent of the vicar there, for the sustenance of the warden and eight priests.

38. Lord Forbes attacked and defaced Dominican Friary, 1642

    Galway · city · Galway · 1642

    In 1642, Lord Forbes landed at Galway and took possession of the Dominican Friary, converting it into a battery to reduce the town. Failing in his design, he defaced the church and, in brutal rage, dug up the graves and burned the coffins and bones of the dead.

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    1642. Lord Forbes, landing here, took possession of this house, which he converted into a battery, with intent to reduce the town; but, having failed in his design, he defaced the church and, in his brutal rage, dug up the graves and burned the coffins and bones of the dead.

    1652. The church and monastery were surrendered by the friars to the corporation, and were soon after razed to the ground, to prevent them from being converted by Cromwell's forces into a fortification against the town. It was, however, previously agreed upon by the corporation that, on the return of peace, the whole should be rebuilt and restored to its former state at the expense of the inhabitants — an undertaking, says O'Heyn in his account of this circumstance, which they would certainly have fulfilled if the desired tranquillity had ever taken place; for, adds he, the citizens were very pious, and powerfully rich from the extensive maritime commerce with which Galway, beyond any other part of the kingdom, abounded.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 219

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, there's a dark chapter from 1642. Lord Forbes landed here and seized the Dominican Friary, turning it into a battery to reduce the town. When he failed in his design, he defaced the church and, in brutal rage, dug up the graves and burned the coffins and bones of the dead. Ten years later in 1652, the friars surrendered the church and monastery to the corporation, who razed them to the ground to stop Cromwell's forces from turning them into a fortification against the town. The corporation had agreed that, once peace returned, the whole would be rebuilt and restored at the expense of the inhabitants. O'Heyn, who recorded this, said they would certainly have fulfilled that promise if tranquillity had ever come, for the citizens were very pious and powerfully rich from the extensive maritime commerce in which Galway beyond any other part of the kingdom abounded.

39. Lynch's Castle, ancient residence of Galway magistrates

    Lynch's Castle · castle · Galway

    Lynch's Castle, situated in the centre of Galway, is described as a beautiful specimen of ancient architecture. It had formerly been the residence of some of the chief magistrates of the town.

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    With respect to the Engravings, no pains have been spared that they should be properly executed, and that the drawings should be correct. The distant prospect of Galway, and the views of the church, Lynch's castle, the county court-house, bridge, and prison, were taken by an ingenious artist, brought from Dublin solely for the purpose. The armorial bearings, contained in plate II. have been extracted partly from the old map of the town. This latter document, which the author, after much trouble, has been enabled to lay before the reader, affords incontestible proof of the former respectable state of Galway, and is deservedly admired as one of the principal topographical curiosities relating to Ireland. |[ A drawing of Lynch's castle, situate in the centre of the town, is given, as it presents a beautiful specimen of ancient architecture, and had formerly been the residence of some of the chief magistrates. The modern plan of the town and suburbs has been made from actual survey, and will, it is hoped, be found generally correct. The miscellaneous plate also contains an assemblage possessing some local interest; and, although the different objects are reduced to a small scale, yet care has been taken that they should all be exactly delineated. The principal engravings have been executed by some of the best engravers which Dublin could afford.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    An ancient residence of Galway's magistrates, Lynch's Castle stands in the centre of Galway. It is described as a beautiful specimen of ancient architecture, and had formerly been the residence of some of the chief magistrates of the town. A drawing of it was made for the volume, taken by an ingenious artist brought from Dublin solely for that purpose, along with views of the church, the county court-house, the bridge, and the prison. The same volume records that an old map of the town was laid before the reader after much trouble. That document affords incontestible proof of the former respectable state of Galway, and is deservedly admired as one of the principal topographical curiosities relating to Ireland. Armorials contained in one of the plates were extracted partly from that old map. The modern plan of the town and suburbs was made from actual survey. A miscellaneous plate contains an assemblage possessing some local interest, and although the different objects are reduced to a small scale, care was taken that they should all be exactly delineated. The principal engravings were executed by some of the best engravers which Dublin could afford, and no pains were spared that the drawings should be correct.

40. Mass in Rahoon parish

    near Rahoon · street · Galway

    Patrick Hoobane, an old registered priest, officiated and said mass in the parish of Rahoon, located in the west suburbs of Galway.

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    4 "They (the sheriffs) also gave me an account of a reputed popish chapel in Middle-street aforesaid, in which chapel there is an altar, a canopy, and some forms ; and informed me that one Gregory French and Robert Skerrett, two popish priests, usually officiated therein ; and another popish chapel in the same street, in a warehouse belonging to Anthony Bodkin, merchant, with some forms, and that one Patrick Bermingham, titular warden, and some other priests or friars, whose names I could not learn, officiate therein, and which said warehouse was converted into a chapel five or six years ago ; and that one Patrick Skerrett, a registered popish priest, a very old man, officiates and says mass (as they heard) in his chambers in Sk inner 's-street ; and that one Patrick Hoobane, an old registered priest, officiates and says mass in the parish of Rahoon, in the west suburbs of Galway ; and that one Gregory French (but whether he is a priest or friar cannot learn) is said to officiate in the house

    264

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 209

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Rahoon, in the west suburbs of Galway, an old registered priest named Patrick Hoobane officiated and said mass. This comes from an account given by sheriffs, who reported on several popish chapels and priests in Galway. They described a chapel in Middle Street with an altar, a canopy, and some forms, where Gregory French and Robert Skerrett, two popish priests, usually officiated. They noted another chapel in the same street, in a warehouse belonging to Anthony Bodkin, a merchant, which had been converted into a chapel five or six years before. Patrick Bermingham, titular warden, and other priests or friars whose names could not be learned officiated there. Patrick Skerrett, a registered popish priest and a very old man, was said to officiate and say mass in his chambers in Skinner's Street. And Patrick Hoobane, also described as an old registered priest, officiated and said mass in this parish of Rahoon. A Gregory French, whether priest or friar not known, was said to officiate in a house as well.

41. Musketeers dispatched to Aran Islands under Sir Robert Lynch

    near Aran Islands · island or archipelago · Galway · 1651

    The warrant of freedom issued at Tyrellan on 7 April 1651 ordered two hundred musketeers with officers, a gunner, three pieces of ordnance and ammunition to be sent to the Isles of Arran under Sir Robert Lynch, to be maintained at public charge.

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    further supplies as his highness, his heirs and successors, will afford for the service of the kingdom. And we are further pleased, that, during the said engagement, the merchants of the said city and town shall have free liberty of exportation of all native and foreign commodities, notwithstanding any act to the contrary ; they paying thereout his majesty's just dues, as, by the articles made between us and the said ambassador, they are disposed. And we are further pleased that two hundred musketeers, with officers and a gunner, under the command of Sir Robert Lynch, be forthwith sent to the Isles of Arran^ with a reasonable proportion of ammunition, and inree pieces of runance with necessaries; and that three months means be provided them out of the said twenty thousand pounds to be received, deducting thereout so iiVueh as the contributions of the said islands comes unto, according unto their dividend for that time, the said ammunition to be provided by the publick ; and the said town of Gallway to furnish the three pieces of ordnance, for which the said corporation is to be paid, by the publick, out or the next supplies : and after the expiration of the said two months, the said two hundred men and officers to be there maintained at the public charge, as the rest of the standing forces of the county Gallway. — Given at Tyrellan, the 7th of April, 1651."— Memoirs.

    MlSTORY OF GAL WAY.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 105

    As the companion tells it

    Out near the Aran Islands in Galway, a military order reached this place in 1651. On the 7th of April that year, a warrant of freedom was given at Tyrellan. It ordered two hundred musketeers, with officers and a gunner, to be sent forthwith to the Isles of Arran under the command of Sir Robert Lynch. They were to bring a reasonable proportion of ammunition, three pieces of ordnance with necessaries, and three months' means were to be provided for them out of twenty thousand pounds to be received. From that provision, a deduction was to be made for whatever the contributions of the islands came to, according to their dividend for that time. The ammunition was to be provided by the public. The town of Galway was to furnish the three pieces of ordnance, and the corporation was to be paid for them by the public out of the next supplies. After the expiration of those two months, the two hundred men and officers were to be maintained at the public charge, the same as the rest of the standing forces of the county of Galway.

42. Mutton Island castle gun-firing tradition

    Mutton Island · townland · Galway · 1539

    Mayor Arthur Lynch, entering Galway Bay after a long voyage in 1539, fired a gun near the little castle of Mutton Island, continuing the Lynch family tradition. This practice was long afterwards observed by his posterity.

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    11. This mayor, entering the bay after a long voyage, likewise fired a jrun near the little castle of Mutton-island which was long afterwards observed by his posterity.— Id.

    12. This mayor died in office, and Arthur French Fitz-Geoffry was elected in his place.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 167

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here stood the little castle of Mutton Island. In 1539, Mayor Arthur Lynch, entering Galway Bay after a long voyage, fired a gun near that castle, a practice long afterwards observed by his posterity. He later died in office, and Arthur French Fitz-Geoffry was elected in his place.

43. New belfry and bells for Galway church

    Galway · city · Galway · 1590

    During the 1590 mayoralty of James Lynch Fitz-Ambrose, a belfry was erected and a chime of new bells was provided for the church in Galway. The work was superintended by the mayor but paid for by the inhabitants and corporation.

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    possessions. They soon after obtained a similar grant of the monastery of Ballintubber, in the county of Mayo. In the same year several useful alterations were made in the church : the western windows were enlarged; and over one of them the date still remains engraven in stone. About the same time several other improvements were undertaken. 21 In the mayoralty of James Lynch Fitz-Ambrose, in 1590, a belfry was erected, and a chime of new bells provided, under the superintendence of the mayor, but at the expense of the inhabitants and corporation. 22

    Henceforth, in order to avoid confusion, the affairs of the collegiate church shall be distinctly noticed under two separate heads; first, those relating

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 200

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the church here gained a belfry and a chime of new bells in 1590, during the mayoralty of James Lynch Fitz-Ambrose. The mayor superintended the work, but the inhabitants and corporation bore the cost. Around the same time the western windows of the church were enlarged, and the date was engraven in stone over one of them.

44. Nolan family possessions at Ballinrobe

    Ballinrobe · town · Mayo · 1628–1641

    Thomas Nolan of the castle and town of Ballinrobe possessed extensive landed possessions which were confiscated in the civil war of 1641. A considerable part remained in the families of Loughboy, Ballinderry and Ballybanagher.

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    16 This family was, formerly, of the first rank and opulence, and is still wealthy and respectable. Thomas Nolan of the castle and town of Ballinrobe, Esq. who died 18th June, 1628, was possessed of most extensive landed possessions : to which his son Gregory succeeded, and out of which his widow Agnes Martin had dower. — Inq. — This property was confiscated, in the civil war of 1641, but a considerable part still reains in the families of

    Loughboy, Ballinderry and Ballybanagher.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 25

    As the companion tells it

    Ballinrobe was once the seat of the Nolan family, people of the first rank and opulence. Thomas Nolan of the castle and town of Ballinrobe died on the 18th of June, 1628, possessed of most extensive landed possessions. His son Gregory succeeded to them, and his widow Agnes Martin had dower. In the civil war of 1641, this property was confiscated. A considerable part still remains in the families of Loughboy, Ballinderry and Ballybanagher.

45. Oyster banks near Galway exhausted by dredging

    Galway · city · Galway

    Extensive oyster banks near Galway town belonged partly to the corporation but had been almost exhausted by continual dredging. The author suggested replenishing them with young oysters from the neighbouring coast to restore the supply.

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    deserve particular notice : the former, it is said, extends from Clagganbay quite across the Atlantic Ocean to Newfoundland. The valuable turbot-bank lately discovered has made this excellent fish generally very cheap and plenty in the town : it is brought in great quantities to several parts of the country, and frequently supplies the Dublin markets. Lobsters are also to be had in great abundance, generally from the county of Clare side of the bay; and the finest kind often sell, during the season, so low as from 4s. to 5s. a dozen. There are some extensive oyster-banks near the town, but they are now almost exhausted by continual drudging. One of these belongs to the corporation; and if it and the others were occasionally replenished with a few boat-loads of young oysters from the neighbouring coast, this favourite shell-fish would soon become large and plenty. There are, however, some fine banks on the shores of the county of Clare, the oysters of which, particularly those of Pouldudy, Burren and Kinvarra, are large and delicious. Very few places are better supplied with every species of fish than Galway, which, with other local advantages, render it one of the cheapest towns in the kingdom.

    V.— PUBLIC BUILDINGS.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 240

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, there were once extensive oyster banks near the town, but they had been almost exhausted by continual dredging. One of these banks belonged to the corporation, and the author suggested that if they and the others were occasionally replenished with a few boat-loads of young oysters from the neighbouring coast, this favourite shell-fish would soon become large and plenty. Fine banks still existed on the shores of County Clare, particularly at Pouldudy, Burren and Kinvarra, whose oysters were large and delicious. Very few places, the author wrote, were better supplied with every species of fish than Galway, which made it one of the cheapest towns in the kingdom.

46. Paper mill in west suburbs of Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1785

    An extensive paper mill was erected in the west suburbs of Galway around 1785, conducted by Mr. Reuben Hughes. Different sorts of paper were manufactured there, with which the Dublin markets were sometimes supplied.

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    but ai present there are twenty-three, which are kept continually at work. 16 each possessing, even in the driest season, a constant supply of water from Lough Corrib. The fall and rapidity of the river render it in this respect peculiarly advantageous; and the facility of internal conveyance by the lake to so many points of the country might, with very little exertion, be made incalculably beneficial to the town. The quantity of wheat ground and dressed is very considerable; it is calculated to amount annually to upwards of 12,000 tons, part of which supplies the adjacent counties, and the remainder is generally sent by the canal boats to Dublin. Besides these, there are six oat-mills, two malt-mills, and three fulling-mills, which are constantly employed. There are also a bleach mill and green on the Nuns' Island, but the linen manufacture does not appear to have been a favourite branch of industry; and, therefore, a linen hall, formerly erected in the west suburbs, has long since gone to decay. 1? There is, in the same quarter, an extensive paper-mill, erected about 1785, and now conducted by Mr. Reuben Hughes : here different sorts of paper are manufactured, with which the Dublin markets are sometimes supplied. A public brewery, on an extensive scale, has been for some years past established at Newcastle, near the town, the property of Mr. Persse, of Roxboro', and another at Madeira Island, beyond the west bridge. The porter made here, but particularly in the former, has been much esteemed, and had for some time a good deal superseded the use of ardent spirits among the lower orders. This, however, interfered but little with Mr. Joyce's extensive distillery at Newtown Smith, in which superior spirits have, for many years past, been distilled under the superintendence of Mr. Finn. — The excise establishment of Galway, it is supposed, produces proportionably more to the public revenue than the duties of the port.

    4. — Chamber of Commerce. Several of our most respectable merchants and traders have lately asso-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 233

    As the companion tells it

    As Galway comes up, the west suburbs once held an extensive paper mill, erected around 1785 and conducted by Mr. Reuben Hughes. Different sorts of paper were manufactured there, and sometimes the Dublin markets were supplied with it. The mill drew on the constant supply of water from Lough Corrib, whose fall and rapidity made the area peculiarly advantageous for such industry. A linen hall had formerly stood in the same quarter but had long since gone to decay, the linen manufacture not appearing to have been a favourite branch of industry here.

47. Petition against Galway corporation for misusing charter duties

    Galway · city · Galway

    A petition was presented to the House on behalf of the inhabitants of Galway town and county, complaining that the corporation levied charter duties on imports and exports but failed to apply them to their intended purposes of paving streets and repairing walls.

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    Galway, and the gentlemen, freeholders and farmers of the county of Galway, in behalf of themselves and others, the inhabitants of the said town and county," was presented by Robert French, esq. of Monivea, an active senator, and one of the most opulent and respectable of the descendants of the ancient Galway families; and it informed the house, 7 "That the corporation had charters to levy off all goods, imported and exported, certain duties, which were granted for the particular purpose of paving the streets, repairing the walls, and keeping the custom-house quay and other public

    and encouraging the tradesmen and artificers of the town to make necessary and useful improvements in the manufactories of their several callings1.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 150

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you're in a city whose inhabitants once petitioned the House against their own corporation. Robert French of Monivea, a senator and descendant of one of the ancient Galway families, presented the petition on behalf of the town and county's inhabitants. It complained that the corporation had charters to levy duties on all goods imported and exported, duties granted for paving streets, repairing walls, keeping the custom-house quay and other public purposes, and encouraging tradesmen and artificers to improve their manufactories. The petitioners said the corporation was collecting those duties but not applying them to their intended purposes.

48. Proposed navigation linking Killala and Galway via inland waterways

    Galway · city · Galway · 1700–1750

    In the early eighteenth century, surveyors proposed connecting Killala and Galway via the Moy, Lough Mask, and Lough Corrib, and extending navigation from Galway to the Shannon via the Colgan. Lough Corrib covers 50,700 acres and empties into the bay from three miles distant. Had these plans been executed, Galway might have been one of the most considerable mercantile towns in Ireland.

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    10 To open a communication between Killalla and Galway, by means of the Moy, Loughmask, and Lough corrib, was one of the practical projects of those who were employed to survey the navigable rivers of Ireland in the early part of the eighteenth century, and. if carried into effect, would have proved a most important addition to the internal navigation of this country. They also intended to make the Colgan navigable, or extend its navigation from Galway to the Shannon. Lough Corrib might be easily rendered of extremely important advantage to this

    part of the kingdom ; it spreads its waters over 50700 acres, and disembogues its surplus into the bay, from which it is but three miles distant. — Newenham. Had these great national plans been executed, at the time they were projected. Galway might now, notwithstanding the many political disabilities under which it has since ..laboured, be one of the most considerably mercantile towns in this kingdom, instead of which, it remains, with all its natural advantages, a melancholy monument of the sad effects of bigotry, prejudice and persecution.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, consider what was once proposed. In the early 1700s, surveyors employed to survey the navigable rivers of Ireland had a practical project: to open a communication between Killala and the town by means of the Moy, Lough Mask, and Lough Corrib. They also intended to make the Colgan navigable, extending navigation onward to the Shannon. Lough Corrib spreads its waters over 50,700 acres and empties its surplus into the bay from three miles distant. Had these plans been carried into effect, they would have proved a most important addition to the internal navigation of this country. Newenham writes that had these great national plans been executed when they were projected, the town might now be one of the most considerable mercantile towns in the kingdom. Instead it remains, with all its natural advantages, a melancholy monument of the sad effects of bigotry, prejudice and persecution.

49. Queen Elizabeth's charter of privileges to Galway, 1579

    Galway · city · Galway · 1579

    On 14 July 1579 Queen Elizabeth granted Galway a charter confirming all preceding grants and creating ample privileges, including a yearly recorder, coroner, escheator and other officers, safe conduct for foreign merchants, and making every mayor admiral of the port and bay as far as the islands of Aran.

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    These troubles having at length subsided, the town was rewarded by the queen for its losses and fidelity to her government. On the 14th of July, 1579. she granted it a charter containing most ample privileges. All similar preceding grants were confirmed, power was given to create, yearly, a recorder, coroner, escheator, comptroller of the customs, gauger and all other officers, and to grant safe conduct, to and from the town, to all foreign merchants. Every mayor, for the time being, was created admiral of the port and bay, as far as the islands of Aran, and was to be entitled to all the wr«cks of the sea. The inhabitants were exempted from attending at

    7 A.D. 1580, one of these unhappy men, whose name was William, and who was the youngest son of the earl of Clanriekard, together with a son of the earl of Thomond (who. notwithstanding his father's previous submission, had also joined in those rebellious proceedings,) were taken near Galway, and, after a

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 77

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you're in a city that received a remarkable grant from Queen Elizabeth on the 14th of July 1579. After earlier troubles had subsided, she rewarded the town for its losses and loyalty to her government with a charter of ample privileges. It confirmed all previous grants and gave power to create a recorder, coroner, escheator, comptroller of the customs, gauger and other officers each year. Foreign merchants were granted safe conduct to and from the town. Every mayor became admiral of the port and bay as far as the islands of Aran, entitled to all the wrecks of the sea.

50. Revenue officers barred from Galway town walls

    Galway · city · Galway · 1713

    In August 1713, the town collector reported that revenue officers were prohibited from accessing Galway's town walls and that town gates were closed to them, harming revenue collection. Lords justices later ordered the military to permit access.

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    28. A circumstance which occurred about this period, shews the extreme and jealous caution with which the town \\ as guarded against any attempt, foreign or domestic, by which its safety could be endangered.—In August, 1713, Mr. Arkwright. then collector of the town informed the _ commissioners of the revenue, that neithei he nor any officer belonging to the custom-house would be permitted to go upon the town walls to look into the road and bay, and that none of the town gates would be opened for him which proved highly prejudicial to the revenue though that liberty had been fermerly allowed. This representation being laid before the lords justices,, they immediately directed the commanding officer of the town to permit the officers of the revenue to go upon the walls whenever there should be occasion for it, and allow the surveyor to pass through the quay gate in the night time, when his majesty's service should require it. — Grig. MS. — When such precautions as those were taken against the civil officer of the crown, the restrictions imposed upon the Catholic inhabitants may be easily conjectured.

    176

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 137

    As the companion tells it

    Galway guarded itself with extreme and jealous caution against anything that might endanger its safety. In August 1713, Mr. Arkwright, then collector of the town, informed the commissioners of the revenue that neither he nor any officer belonging to the custom-house would be permitted to go upon the town walls to look into the road and bay. None of the town gates would be opened for him. This proved highly prejudicial to the revenue, though that liberty had been formerly allowed. This representation being laid before the lords justices, they immediately directed the commanding officer of the town to permit the officers of the revenue to go upon the walls whenever there should be occasion for it, and to allow the surveyor to pass through the quay gate in the night time, when his majesty's service should require it. When such precautions as those were taken against the civil officer of the crown, the restrictions imposed upon the Catholic inhabitants may be easily conjectured.

51. Richard Martin of Dangan or Ballinehinch Castle

    near Dangan · street · Galway

    Richard Martin of Dangan or Ballinehinch Castle was descended from the eldest branch of the Martin family, who claimed origin from Oliver Martin, a follower of Strongbow. The Martin houses of Curraghmore, Ross, Spiddle, and Tullyra were counted among the most respectable in the province of Connacht.

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    This family is of early origin in Galway. Their pedigree relates, that Oliver Martin was the first of the name, that settled in Ireland, that he was a follower of Strongbow, and that the name was derived from Martius, warlike. Some aniquaries, however, are of opinion, that they were of ancient Irish descent. O'Brien and Vallancey, say, "they are derived from the belgian firbolg, or Martini, Ir. Mairtinigh, respectable remains of which still subsist, in the Cities of Limerick and Galway." Richard Martin of Dangan or Ballinehincn Castle, Esq. is descended from the eldest branch of this family, and the houses of Curraghmore, Ross, Spiddle and Tullyra^ are numbered amonst the most respectable in this Province. 9.

    8 The memorable Act, 8 Ann, chap. 3, for explaining and amending the act, to prevent the further growth of popery, after reciting that Oliver Martin of Tulliry, County Galway, Esq. was, during the rebellion, a person who behaved himself with great moderation, and was remarkably kind to numbers of protestants in distress, many of which he supported in bis family, and by bis charitv and goodness, saved their lives, &c. enacted that

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 24

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Dangan lived Richard Martin of Dangan, or Ballinehinch Castle. He was descended from the eldest branch of the Martin family, who traced their line back to Oliver Martin, said to be a follower of Strongbow and the first of the name to settle in Ireland. The family name, according to their pedigree, came from Martius, meaning warlike. Some antiquaries, though, held that they were of ancient Irish descent, calling them "respectable remains" of the Belgian Firbolg, or Martini. The Martin houses of Curraghmore, Ross, Spiddle, and Tullyra were counted among the most respectable in the province of Connacht.

52. Robert Stannard, soldier who died of fever in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1720

    A monument in St. Nicholas's Church commemorates Robert Stannard, a lieutenant born at Wexford who served in Spain and died of a malignant fever in Galway in 1720, aged 34. He was the third son of Robert Stannard of County Cork.

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    Here is interred the Body of Robert Stannard, Lieutenant in the Honorable Colonel Roger Handasyde's Regiment of Foot. He was third Son of Robert Stannard. of the County of Corke. He was born at Wexford, and dyed here, of a malignant Fever, on the 10th day of Marche, in the yeare of our Lord 1720, in the 34 yeare of his age. He served his Country in Spain faithfully. He lived soberly, and dyed much lamented.

    On a neat oval monument on the south side of the choir : —

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 207

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, St. Nicholas's Church holds a monument to Robert Stannard, a lieutenant in Colonel Roger Handasyde's Regiment of Foot. He was the third son of Robert Stannard of County Cork, born at Wexford. He served in Spain faithfully, then died here of a malignant fever on the 10th of March 1720, aged 34. The inscription says he

53. Roscam parish church granted to Galway Augustinians

    near Roscam · street · Galway · 1508

    In 1508 Richard Edmund de Burgo confirmed to the Augustinian friars of Galway the parish church of Roscam, with its cemetery and lands including Tirnahalle and Gortintagart, in perpetual alms, to pray for the souls of himself, his parents and successors.

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    15! 7. July 17th. Richard Edmund de Burgo confirmed unto Richard Nangle, Sacre pagine projessori, of the order of hermits of St. Augustine, and to father Donot O'Maille, prior of the same convent of the new monastery of Galway, of the same order, and to their successors, in free and perpetual alms for ever, "his parish church of Roscam, in the diocess of Enaghdowne, with the cemetery on the west part of the wall of said church, a certain parcel of land near the same, called Tirnahalle, situate in breadth to the great stones in the west of Tirnahalle, and in length from the sea upwards to the wall near the wood, and also another large tract, commonly called Gortintagart, with liberty of pasture for eight cows and six horses, to pray for the souls of himself, his parents and successors. "28

    26 The following are earliest inscriptions now remaining : —

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 221

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Roscam, in 1508, Richard Edmund de Burgo confirmed his parish church here to the Augustinian friars of Galway. He granted it to Richard Nangle, a professor of sacred page in the order of hermits of Saint Augustine, and to Father Donot O'Maille, prior of the new monastery of Galway, and to their successors, in free and perpetual alms. The grant included the cemetery on the west part of the church wall, a parcel of land called Tirnahalle, and another large tract called Gortintagart, with liberty of pasture for 8 cows and 6 horses. All of this was given so the friars would pray for the souls of himself, his parents, and his successors. The church sat in the diocese of Enaghdowne.

54. Roscam rectory dispute resolved (1529)

    near Roscam · street · Galway · 1529

    A dispute arose concerning the rectory and vicarage of Roscam, claimed by Edmund de Burgo, archdeacon of Enachdune, after it had been united to the collegiate church by the archbishop. A commission to the dean of Kilfenora confirmed the college's title by decree dated 5 August 1529.

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    sons of iniquity " who had in any manner invaded the rights of the collegiate church, or usurped any of its possessions; and if they should not restore what they had taken, and desist for the future, then to pronounce against them the sentence of excommunication. This strong remedy seems to have had the desired effect, for it does not appear that any opposition was given to the college for several years after, with the single exception of its determined opponent, Richard de Burgo, the canon of Annaghdown, who, in 1502, petitioned the pope, claiming the right to the rectory of Ballinclaer, though it had been united to the collegiate church at the time of its original institution. A commission accordingly issued, directed to Florence O'Cannovan, to inquire concerning this alleged claim, who, after investigating the matter, decided against it. For some years after this decision the college enjoyed a respite from external opposition, which John Bermingham, warden in 1514, and Henry Brangan, warden in 1557,9 were successful in preventing, until the archbishop of Tuam united the vicarages of the parish churches of Kinlash an and Srower to the wardenship, when two of the diocesan clergy, Meiler and Thomas Mac Shonyn, having laid claim to those livings, obtained letters from Rome allowing their claim, under which they received all the fruits, rents and profits of the vicarages. The warden and vicars, on their part, charged them with having obtained these letters surreptitiously, without stating the union which had been made; and having brought the question before the archbishop, he made his decree on 9th January, 1526, annulling the adverse claim, and confirming the previous union. This dispute was succeeded by another concerning the rectory and vicarage of Roscam, which had been shortly before united by the archbishop, but was claimed by Edmund de Burgo, archdeacon of Enachdune. On the petition of John O'Dermode, then warden, to cardinal Wolsey, a commission issued to the dean of Kilfenora to investigate this claim and determine between the parties, who, by his decree, dated the 5th of August, 1529, confirmed the title of the college; and thus terminated all further litigation concerning its exterior possessions. 10

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 195

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Roscam, a dispute over the rectory and vicarage was settled in 1529. The archbishop had united these to the collegiate church, but Edmund de Burgo, archdeacon of Enachdune, laid claim to them. John O'Dermode, then warden, petitioned Cardinal Wolsey, who issued a commission to the dean of Kilfenora to investigate. By his decree, dated the 5th of August 1529, the dean confirmed the title of the college, and this ended all further litigation concerning its exterior possessions.

55. Sir William Pelham's arrival and description of Galway, 1579

    Galway · city · Galway · 1579

    On 7 November 1579 the lord justice Sir William Pelham arrived in Galway accompanied by the Earl of Thomond and the Berwick bands. He described the town as well built and walled, with an excellent haven, replenished with wealthy merchants, its inhabitants presenting a more civil show of life than other Irish towns, comparable next to Dublin and Waterford.

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    On the 7th of November, 1579, the lord justice, Sir William Pelham, arrived in Galway, accompanied by the earl of Thomond and the Berwick bands. " His lordship removed into the towne of Galwaie, twelve mills, verie rockie way, and full of great loughes. The towne is well bulte, and walled, with an excellent good haven, and is replenished with many welthie merchants. The townes-men and wemmen present a more civil show of life than other townes in Ireland do, and maie be compared, in my judgement, next Dublin and Watterford, the only towne. "10 He was most

    8 Rot. Pat. 20 Eliz.— This charter, under which the town is entitled to so many valuable privileges, contains recitals by inspeximus of all preceding charters : it is therefore given at full in the Appendix, carefully compared and translated. An imperfect translation of it was made in the year 1693, by Elisha Cole, M.A. for the use of the corporation.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    Galway in 1579. On the 7th of November the lord justice Sir William Pelham arrived here, with the Earl of Thomond and the Berwick bands. He found a town well built and walled, with an excellent haven, and replenished with many wealthy merchants. He said the townspeople present a more civil show of life than other towns in Ireland do, and may be compared, in his judgement, next to Dublin and Waterford. He had come twelve miles, he wrote, by very rocky way and full of great loughes.

56. Steeple erected on Galway church tower in 1683

    Galway · city · Galway · 1683

    The ancient ecclesiastical edifice in Galway is described as a fine specimen of simple Gothic or Norman architecture, built in a cruciform shape. Its square tower had a steeple added in 1683, which did not match the rest of the building.

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    This already protracted detail shall now be concluded with a brief description of the venerable building to which it relates, and which, without exaggeration, may be pronounced one of the most perfect and beautiful specimens of the simple Gothic or Norman architecture (by some called the pointed style) now remaining in this kingdom. The exterior of this ancient edifice, though evidently the work of different periods, is remarkable for uniformity in the execution, and for order and plan in the general design. Like most ecclesiastical edifices of the same style of architecture, it is built so as to resemble in shape the sacred emblem of our salvation; and within its ample walls, it has been ascertained, that upwards of five thousand persons might be conveniently accommodated at divine service. It extends in length, within, from the east end of the choir, along the nave, to the principal entrance at the west, 152 feet; in breadth, from north to south, including the transept, or cross aisle, 126 feet; in height, to the vaulted roof, 42 feet 10 inches. The side aisles are separated from the nave by two rows of Gothic pillars, with arches springing from them, which support the roofs. Each of these pillars is 8 feet 10 inches in circumference; 12 feet 10 inches from the base to the top of the architrave; and the chord of each arch measures 14 feet 6 inches. From the intersection of the aisles rises the square tower on which the steeple was erected in 1683, in a style of architecture no way corresponding with the rest of the building. The en-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 206

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, there is an ancient church here that one writer called one of the most perfect and beautiful specimens of simple Gothic or Norman architecture remaining in the kingdom. It was built in the shape of a cross, its interior stretching 152 feet from the east end of the choir to the principal entrance at the west, and 126 feet across including the transept. The vaulted roof rose to a height of 42 feet and 10 inches, and it was said that upwards of 5,000 people could be accommodated within its walls for divine service. Two rows of Gothic pillars, each 8 feet and 10 inches in circumference, separated the side aisles from the nave, with arches springing from them to support the roofs. From the intersection of the aisles rose a square tower, and on that tower a steeple was erected in 1683. The writer noted that this steeple was built in a style of architecture no way corresponding with the rest of the building. So what had been a remarkably uniform design, the work of different periods yet consistent in execution, received an addition that sat awkwardly against the older fabric.

57. The Catholic warden of Galway and its quasi-episcopal jurisdiction

    Galway · city · Galway

    The Catholic warden of Galway was a prelate chosen triennially by lay-patrons of the town, exercising episcopal jurisdiction over an extensive district in the provincial capital. The warden was subject to the triennial visitation of the metropolitan of Tuam and held privileges including sending two students to Maynooth and using pontificals in synod.

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    To conclude — the Catholic warden of Galway (who has been sometimes described by the term quasi episcopus) is a prelate chosen triennially by the lay-patrons of the town, who exercise episcopal jurisdiction over an extensive district and population in the capital of the province, but subject to the triennial visitation of the metropolitan of Tuam, who is generally obliged, however, to conclude the business of visitation within a limited time. His institution \>y the chapter or vicars confers on him all the neces sary faculties in ordinary for this jurisdiction : of course, what the confirmation of the holy see confers on a bishop elect, or nearly so, is conferred on him by such institution. He possesses a visitatorial power over all religious foundations within the limits of the wardenship; has privilege of sending two students to the Royal College of St. Patrick, Maynooth; is intitled to a chair and vote in synod, with mitre, crozier, and pontificals, as other prelates : but he cannot administer the sacrament of confirmation, confer orders, or consecrate the sacred unction. A vicar of the collegiate church (who is also elected by the lay-patrons, but for life) is of different signification from what is commonly understood by tKat name, the vicarage being, in fact, a canonry or prebend in a collegiate chapter. The reverend gentlemen at present composing this venerable body are inferior to none in the kingdom for piety, learning, and zeal in the arduous discharge of their sacred duties.

    Franciscan Friary.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 216

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you're in a city that once had its own Catholic warden, a prelate chosen every 3 years by the lay-patrons of the town. He exercised episcopal jurisdiction over an extensive district and population in the capital of the province, and was sometimes described by the term "quasi episcopus." He was subject to the triennial visitation of the metropolitan of Tuam, who was generally obliged to conclude the business of visitation within a limited time. His institution by the chapter or vicars conferred on him all the necessary faculties for this jurisdiction, nearly what the confirmation of the Holy See confers on a bishop elect. He held visitatorial power over all religious foundations within the limits of the wardenship, had the privilege of sending two students to the Royal College of St. Patrick at Maynooth, and was entitled to a chair and vote in synod with mitre, crozier, and pontificals as other prelates. He could not, however, administer the sacrament of confirmation, confer orders, or consecrate the sacred unction. A vicar of the collegiate church, also elected by the lay-patrons but for life, held what was in effect a canonry or prebend in a collegiate chapter.

58. Town records of Galway and early corporation acts

    Galway · city · Galway

    The town records of Galway, including a venerable volume containing the early acts of the corporation valued at several hundred pounds, were procured for the compilation of the history. Authentic annals in the Irish language and many private manuscripts were also collected.

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    former opulence and respectability, originally led to the idea, and the intention was afterwards promoted by an incident that could not have been previously anticipated. His Majesty's Commissioners for the regulation of the Public Records of Ireland were pleased to appoint the author one of their Sub-commissioners : this circumstance, which threw open many valuable sources of national information, at once determined and enabled him to investigate with greater accuracy the history and antiquities of this ancient and respectable town, and the leisure hours that could be spared from other more immediate and necessary pursuits have been devoted to the purpose. After gleaning considerably from the invaluable archives of Trinity College,, the Record iower, (now comprising the former contents of Birmingham Tower, the parliamentary papers, and those of some of the offices of State) the Rolls, Auditor-general's, Chief-remembrancer's, and other offices in Dublin, including, through the kindness of Sir William Betham, that of the Herald of Arms, he personally visited and carefully explored the principal record repositories in England; and the rich and inexhaustible stores of the Bodleian Library at Oxford; the British Museum, and the Tower of London, have largely contributed to complete his undertaking. The town records of Galway, (including the venerable volume which contains the early acts of the corporation, and which the presentpossessor values at several hundred pounds,) with the most authentic annals in the Irish language, and many private manuscripts of an interesting nature, have likewise been procured; and every printed work has been perused which was known or supposed to throw any light on the present or former state of the town and province. From the documents thus collected the following work has been compiled; and, whatever may be the opinion formed of its arrangement or execution, it will be found to contain the only embodied portion of local and historical information ever given to the public concerning any part of the West of Ireland.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    Galway is an ancient town, and its history was gathered from records scattered across two countries. The idea of writing that history came from a sense of Galway's former opulence and respectability. Then something unexpected pushed it forward. His Majesty's Commissioners for the regulation of the Public Records of Ireland appointed the author one of their Sub-commissioners. That appointment opened valuable sources of national information and let him investigate the town's history and antiquities with greater accuracy. He devoted his spare hours to the task. He gleaned from the archives of Trinity College and the Record Tower, which then held the former contents of Birmingham Tower, the parliamentary papers, and papers from some offices of State. He searched the Rolls, the Auditor-general's, and the Chief-remembrancer's offices in Dublin, and through the kindness of Sir William Betham, the office of the Herald of Arms. He then personally visited and explored the principal record repositories in England. The Bodleian Library at Oxford, the British Museum, and the Tower of London all contributed to the undertaking. Back in Galway, the town records were procured, including a venerable volume containing the early acts of the corporation. Its present possessor values it at several hundred pounds. The most authentic annals in the Irish language and many private manuscripts of an interesting nature were likewise collected. Every printed work known or supposed to throw light on the present or former state of the town and province was perused. From these documents the history was compiled, and it stands as the only embodied portion of local and historical information ever given to the public concerning any part of the West of Ireland.

59. Town wall extension and quay construction, 1519

    Galway · city · Galway · 1519

    In 1519, the town wall of Galway was extended 120 feet westward of Michael's tower. Part of the quay was built at the joint expense of the town and government, and the young men of the town instituted a military company.

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    Peace being thus restored, the inhabitants again resumed their improvements. In- 1505 the streets were paved, and Stephen Lynch Fitz-Dominick, the mayor, founded an hospital, in the high street, for the relief of such of the respectable citizens as might happen to be reduced by sickness or other misfortunes : he then drew a deep fosse round the walls on the east, into which a branch of the river was turned that completely insulated the town; and for these public-spirited works the corporation rewarded him with a grant of a considerable portion of the adjacent land. In 1519 the town wall was extended one hunded and twenty feet westward of Michael's tower; part of the quay was also built at the joint expense of the town and government; and the "young men" entered into a military association, and instituted a company amongst themselves, with the approval and sanction of the corporation.

    During the greater part of the reign of Henry VIII. the town enjoyed undisturbed repose; trade flourished;24 several useful bye-laws were enacted for the well ordering of the corporation, and many were also made to prevent any intercourse with the native Irish. As these bye-laws and regulations generally exhibit a curious and correct picture of the customs and manners of the town, at the successive periods of their enactment, since the year 1484, many of them will be found in another part of this work.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 70

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are moving through a town that was still fortifying itself in 1519. That year the town wall was extended 120 feet westward of Michael's tower, and part of the quay was built at the joint expense of the town and government. The "young men" of Galway also entered into a military association and instituted a company amongst themselves, with the approval and sanction of the corporation. These improvements came after an earlier burst of public works in 1505, when the streets were paved and the mayor, Stephen Lynch Fitz-Dominick, founded a hospital in the high street and drew a deep fosse round the walls on the east, turning a branch of the river into it so that the town was completely insulated. During much of Henry the Eighth's reign the town enjoyed undisturbed repose, trade flourished, and useful bye-laws were enacted for the well ordering of the corporation. Many bye-laws were also made to prevent any intercourse with the native Irish.

60. Tromra Castle, O'Brien's Clare residence

    Trimragh · townland · Donegal · 1277

    Dermod More O'Brien, grandson of Soan Tiege, resided at Tromra in County Clare in 1277. From there he received an annual tribute of twelve tuns of wine from the merchants of Galway in consideration for protecting their harbour and trade from pirates and privateers.

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    After these fortifications were erected, the foreign trade of Galway improved considerably. ^5 Dermod More O'Brien, grandson of Soan Tiege

    24 In factura unius rogi, al calcem com- 25 The extent .of the commerce of Gal-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Trimragh is Tromra Castle, where Dermod More O'Brien, grandson of Soan Tiege, lived in 1277. The foreign trade of Galway had improved after fortifications were erected, and the merchants paid him an annual tribute of twelve tuns of wine to protect their harbour and trade from pirates and privateers.