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

Carrowbrowne and Castlemagarrett family connections

near Carrowbrowne · street · Galway

Anastace D'Arcy married Sir Dominick Browne of Carrowbrowne in County Galway, and their son Geoffry Browne became ancestor to the family of Castlemagarrett in County Mayo, linking major Galway and Mayo dynasties.

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way. He died in 1603, leaving seven sons and one daughter, viz. Nicholas (whose two sons, James and Dominick, died childless, the elder of whom a barrister at law, settled his large estate in the Counties of Galway, Mayo, Roscommon and Clare, on his first cousin, James Darcv of Kiltolla, Esq. the son of his youngest uncle Patrick, (to be mentioned presently) Martin, (from whom the Darcies of Clunuane in the County of Clare derive,) James, (ancestor to the families of Bally bocock. Gurteen, Houndswood and Tuam) Anthony, (from whom the Darcies of Brest, in France, descend ; and who had also two daughters, Catherine, who married Marcus French, Esq. ancestor to the Frenches of Rahasane. in the County of Galway ; and Anastace, to James Daly, of Carrownekelly, in that County, Esq. (Mark, Andrew, (whose daughter was married to Richard Martin, Esq. councellor at law, ancestor by her to the Martins of Tulliry, in the County of Galway) ; Patrick, of whom presently. The daughter was Anastace, married to Sir Dominick Browne, of Carrowbrowne, in the County of Galway, knt. by whom she had Geoffry Browne. Esq. (ancestor to the family of Castlemagarrett, in the County of Mayo,) and four daughters, of whom Ma-rv. the eldest, being married to Major John Browne, of the Neale, had George of the Neale, John of Westport, ancestor to the Earl of Altamont and Dominick of Breafy, all in the County of Mayo.
Patrick Darcy of Kiltolla in the County of Galway, Esq. the seventh son of James (Riveagh) Darcy, was born in 1598, and was educated in the profession of the law, he was an active member of the parliament assembled at Dublin, in 1640, and published, "an argument delivered by Patrick Darcy, Esq. by express order of the House of Commons, in the parliament of Ireland, 9th of June, 1641," he died at Dublin in 1688, and was interred at Kilconneu, in the County of Galway, leaving issue by Elizabeth, one of the four daughters of Sir Peter French, an only son James, born in 1633, who married Frances Trushot. daugter to a gentleman of Brittany, and captain of a ship of war

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 17

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Carrowbrowne, a marriage took place that tied two of the west's powerful families together. Anastace D'Arcy, the only daughter of James D'Arcy, married Sir Dominick Browne of Carrowbrowne, a knight of County Galway. Her father James, known as Riveagh D'Arcy, died in 1603, leaving seven sons and Anastace as his sole daughter. By Sir Dominick, she had a son, Geoffry Browne, who became the ancestor of the Castlemagarrett family in County Mayo. She also had four daughters. The eldest, Mary, married Major John Browne of the Neale, and their sons included John of Westport, ancestor to the Earl of Altamont, and George of the Neale, and Dominick of Breafy, all in County Mayo. So from this place near Carrowbrowne, one union reached across into Mayo and seeded several lines of standing there.

D'Arcy estate at Kiltolla settled on cousin

Kiltullagh · townland · Galway

Nicholas, eldest grandson of James Riveagh D'Arcy, died childless and settled his large estate in Counties of Galway, Mayo, Roscommon and Clare on his first cousin James D'Arcy of Kiltolla, son of Patrick D'Arcy.

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way. He died in 1603, leaving seven sons and one daughter, viz. Nicholas (whose two sons, James and Dominick, died childless, the elder of whom a barrister at law, settled his large estate in the Counties of Galway, Mayo, Roscommon and Clare, on his first cousin, James Darcv of Kiltolla, Esq. the son of his youngest uncle Patrick, (to be mentioned presently) Martin, (from whom the Darcies of Clunuane in the County of Clare derive,) James, (ancestor to the families of Bally bocock. Gurteen, Houndswood and Tuam) Anthony, (from whom the Darcies of Brest, in France, descend ; and who had also two daughters, Catherine, who married Marcus French, Esq. ancestor to the Frenches of Rahasane. in the County of Galway ; and Anastace, to James Daly, of Carrownekelly, in that County, Esq. (Mark, Andrew, (whose daughter was married to Richard Martin, Esq. councellor at law, ancestor by her to the Martins of Tulliry, in the County of Galway) ; Patrick, of whom presently. The daughter was Anastace, married to Sir Dominick Browne, of Carrowbrowne, in the County of Galway, knt. by whom she had Geoffry Browne. Esq. (ancestor to the family of Castlemagarrett, in the County of Mayo,) and four daughters, of whom Ma-rv. the eldest, being married to Major John Browne, of the Neale, had George of the Neale, John of Westport, ancestor to the Earl of Altamont and Dominick of Breafy, all in the County of Mayo.
Patrick Darcy of Kiltolla in the County of Galway, Esq. the seventh son of James (Riveagh) Darcy, was born in 1598, and was educated in the profession of the law, he was an active member of the parliament assembled at Dublin, in 1640, and published, "an argument delivered by Patrick Darcy, Esq. by express order of the House of Commons, in the parliament of Ireland, 9th of June, 1641," he died at Dublin in 1688, and was interred at Kilconneu, in the County of Galway, leaving issue by Elizabeth, one of the four daughters of Sir Peter French, an only son James, born in 1633, who married Frances Trushot. daugter to a gentleman of Brittany, and captain of a ship of war

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 17

Galway bye-law: street cleaning and sanitation orders

Galway · city · Galway · 1508

In 1508, the Galway corporation enacted that anyone fouling the streets or walls would be fined 2d, and every dweller must clean before their door weekly, with no dung heaps allowed on the streets under penalty of 12d.

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That whatsoever man, woman or childe, be found foullinge the streets or walls, either by night or day, to lose 2d. Alsoe, every dweller shall make clean before his door once a week, and that no dung heaps be made on the streets, sub poena 12d.
1509.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 163

As the companion tells it

Galway, passing through now, passed a street-cleaning bye-law in 1508. Anyone fouling the streets or walls, by night or day, would lose 2d. Every dweller had to clean before their door once a week, and no dung heaps were allowed on the streets, under penalty of 12d.

Galway charter liberties confirmed

Galway · city · Galway

The lord justice confirmed articles of charter for Galway, including provisions that no dead bodies be buried within the town walls, that strangers not be permitted to view the town's defenses, and that a storehouse for provisions always be maintained.

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" That no stranger be suffered to take the view of the strength of the towne, nor to walk on the wals.
That the maior, from time to time, doo take the muster and view of all the able men, and of their furniture and armour.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 79

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town whose charter liberties were confirmed by the lord justice. Among the articles: no stranger was permitted to take the view of the strength of the town or walk on the walls, and the mayor was to muster all able men and their armour.

Galway population mostly Catholic by 1762

Galway · city · Galway · 1762

In 1762 it was stated in the House of Commons, on behalf of the corporation, that Galway was mostly inhabited by Papists. The population of the town and liberties amounted to fourteen thousand souls, of which scarcely three hundred and fifty were Protestants.

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3. In the year 1762, it was stated in the house of commons, on the part of the corporation, that Galway was mostly inhabited by Papists, and that the population of the town and liberties amounted to fourteen thousand souls, of which scarcely three hundred and fifty were Protestants.— Com. Jour. Vol. VIII.
188

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 148

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a city that in 1762 was mostly Catholic. That year the corporation told the House of Commons the town and liberties held 14,000 souls, of which scarcely 350 were Protestants.

Galway properties of Blake, Skerret, Martyn families transferred to Protestants

Galway · city · Galway · 1640–1657

Multiple Galway town properties belonging to Old English families including Blake, Skerret, Martyn, and D'Arcy were reassigned to English Protestant settlers such as Benjamin Veale, William Woodward, and others in 1657. Values ranged from £2 to £21 per year. The properties ranged from thatched single-story houses to slated three-story dwellings with yards and back-sides.

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A dwelling-house slated, three stories, and a yard
Do. with a dwelling-house, backwards, slated, three stories, and a yard

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this is a city whose Old English families, the Blakes, Skerrets, Martyns and D'Arcys, lost their town properties in 1657 to English Protestant settlers like Benjamin Veale and William Woodward. The houses ranged from thatched single-storey dwellings to slated three-storey ones with yards, valued at 2 to 21 pounds a year.

James I grants abbey lands to Sir George Carew

Galway · city · Galway · 1603

On 11 February 1603, James I granted the entire possessions of the Franciscan house in Galway to Sir George Carew, his heirs and assigns for ever, completing the transfer of the monastery's property.

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1603. February 1 1th, James I. granted the entire possessions of this house to Sir George Carew, his heirs and assigns for ever.
1611. Valentine Blake Fitz- Walter Fitz-Thomas, who was mayor this year, built the chapel on the south side of the choir, wherein he and his family were interred. This chapel was afterwards converted into a sacristy.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 217

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this is the city where the Franciscan house once stood. On 11 February 1603, James I granted the entire possessions of that house to Sir George Carew, his heirs and assigns for ever, completing the transfer of the monastery's property. The record calls it "the entire possessions of this house."

Market tolls and customs schedule for Galway

Galway · city · Galway

A detailed schedule of market tolls, gateage, and customs was established for Galway to replace charter duties, aiming to ease and improve trade and foster harmony between town and country. The regulations covered a vast array of goods, from grain and meat to wine, iron, and hides, with specific exemptions for provisions intended for private use.

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All the aforesaid duties and gateage are agreed to be given in lieu for, and so long as no charter duties shall be demanded by the corporation on goods imported into said town, or exported fro.n it, and no longer, it being the intent to ease and improve the trade of said town, for the mutual advantage of both town and country, to establish peace and harmony in said town, as also to declare that no goods imported or exported by sea to or from Galway, and which shall pay the king's duties, shall be chargeable with any ingate customs, tolls or duties, (fish as aforesaid only excepted;) neither are any provisions coming into or going out of said town, for the private use of any resident in said town, to pay any gateage, custom, toll or duty ; neither shall there be any gateage, custom, toll or duty paid for any turf, milk, eggs, poultry, fresh butter in rolls or prints, hay or straw; nor shall any fish coming from the Claddagh, to be sold in the
xlvi APPENDIX.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 305

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town where market tolls and customs were once laid out to replace the old charter duties, so long as the corporation demanded no charter duties on imported or exported goods. The aim was to ease and improve trade for the mutual advantage of town and country, and to establish peace and harmony. Goods imported or exported by sea that paid the king's duties were not chargeable with ingate customs, tolls or duties, fish excepted. Provisions for the private use of residents paid nothing, and neither did turf, milk, eggs, poultry, fresh butter in rolls or prints, hay, straw, or fish coming from the Claddagh to be sold in the town.

Murrough na more O'Flaherty buried at Galway abbey

Galway · city · Galway · 1626

On 16 April 1626, Murrough na more O'Flaherty of Bunowen Castle died and was interred among his ancestors in the Franciscan abbey in Galway, according to directions in his last will.

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1626. April 16th, died Murrough na more O'Flaherty, of Bunowen Castle, and by his directions in his last will, was interred amongst his ancestors in this abbey.
1642. Richard Martin, of Dungorie, who was this year mayor of the town, bestowed £800 to build two chapels, one in this abbey, and the other in the church of St. Nicholas.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 217

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Galway. On the 16th of April 1626, Murrough na more O'Flaherty of Bunowen Castle died and, by directions in his last will, was buried among his ancestors in the Franciscan abbey here.

New rules for governing Galway established in 1672

Galway · city · Galway · 1672

Galway continued to be governed under its former charters until 1672, when new rules, orders, and directions were made and established by the lord lieutenant and council pursuant to the act of explanation. This marked a change in the town's civic governance.

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The town continued to be governed under its former charters until the year 1672, when the " new " rules, orders and directions were made and established by the lord lieutenant and council, pursuant to the act of explana-
drunk, and in these fits he would ahuse any one ; that it would be his undoing, if I should leave him in gaol ; whereupon he was sent for, and, before many witnesses, acknowledged that he had injured me, and was sorry for it. I then gave order to have the action withdrawn, he finding sureties -to appear the next assizes, who did so ; but after I came to Dublin, the said French went railing through the streets, shewing a letter, and reading of it, a copy whereof he said he had sent to my lord chancellor ; whereupon he was again arrested, and, as I am informed, he then wrote to Patrick D'Arcy, who gave in the information that Mr. Attorney moved in this honourable house, &c. — This all I know and can say in answer to the said information, the contents whereof will be attested by many witneses.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 118

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town that kept its old charters of governance until 1672. In that year the lord lieutenant and council made and established new rules, orders, and directions for the town, pursuant to the act of explanation. It was a turning point in how Galway was run, closing a long chapter of government under the older charters.

Nicholas D'Arcy's estate in Partry, Mayo

near Partry · population centre · Mayo

Nicholas D'Arcy, a captain of horse stationed in County Mayo, married Jane, daughter and heir to O'Duraghy of Partry, acquiring the large estate of that family and founding a line leading to James Riveagh D'Arcy.

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John, the eider son, took to wife Elizabeth, daughter of Edmund, Lord of Killeen, ancestor to fh® Earl of Fingal, and was father of Sir William Darcy of Platten. who in 1523 was appointed vicetreasurer of Ireland. — Nicholas, the youngest son, was a captain of horse, and, being stationed in the county of Mayo, married Jane, daughter and heir to O'Duraghy, of Par try in that county, who brought him the large estate of that family, and by her he had Thomas, the father of Conyers, whose son Nicholas had James (Riveagh. the swarthy,) and Richard, whose only daughter being married to Robert Blake of Ardfry in the county of Galway, Esq. was mother of Sir Richard Blake, who was speaker or chairman of the supreme council of the confederate Catholics at Kilkenny in 1648.
James (Riveagh) Darcy was a person of such interest and power in Connaught, that he was appointed vice-president of that province in the reign of Elizabeth, and was chief magistrate of the town of Galway, as his monumental inscription set forth (V. prseses Connacke, prsetor Galvias,) in the Franciscan friary of Gal-

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 17

Patrick Begg Ffrench's castle of Monivea, 1630

Monivea · town · Galway · 1630

Patrick Begg Ffrench died on 6 February 1630 seized of the Castle of Monyvea (Monivea) with the lands of Plenemoedra, Derryadda, Knocketobber, Carraleagh and Gortemerrin, which descended to his son and heir Robert Ffrench.

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Richard French FitzPeter, died in March, 1628, possessed of the ruined castle and lands of Dongendricke, Gragalabane, Tonnlagihie. the castle of Menlagh, &c. in the barony of Tyaquin, Tyrnekille and several other lands in Iar Connaught ; of which he enfeoffed Jasper Ffrench, Patrick Ffrench, Marucs Lynch and others of Galway, to the use of his son, Nicholas, junior. — Patrick Begg Ffrench. died 6th February, 1630, seized of the Gastle of Monyvea, with the lands of Plenemoedra, Derryadda, Knocketobber, Carraleagh and Gortemerrin, which descended to bis son and heir. Robert Ffrench. — Inq.
37 On the map, en ermine spot.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 20

Piers Kirwan Fitzclement seized of Creggan and associated lands, 1618

Creggan · townland · Donegal · 1618

Piers Kirwan Fitzclement, who died on 17 April 1618, was seized of the lands of Creggan, Lavally, Ballytrasny, and Leighcarroroe in County Galway. He vested these lands in trustees including Marcus Blake and Nicholas Lynch for his son Clement Kirwan.

Read the passage

4 Piers Kirwan Fitzclement, died 17th April, 1618. seized of the lands of Creggan, Lavally, Bally trasny, Leighcarroroe, &c. which he vested in Marcus Blake, Nicholas Lynch Fitz Jonakin, and John Ffrench Fitz Peter, of Galway, merchants, is trustees for his son, Clement Kirwan. — Inq.
The latter, who was the great grand father of the late Richard Kirwan, Esq. built, in 1648, the Castle of Cregg, in the County of Galway : which was the last edifice of that description, erected for the purpose of defence, in this part of Ireland.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 23

Poor Clares monuments in Galway chapel

Galway · city · Galway · 1638–1672

Two monuments in a Galway chapel commemorate nuns of the Order of St. Clare: Caet Nily, who died in 1638, and Maria Gabriel (Helen Martin), first Abbess of the Poor Clares of Galway, who died in 1672 aged 63 after 40 years in religion.

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1672. Here lieth the Body of the R. Mother Maria Gabriel alias ( ) Helen Martin, first Abbes and religious of the poor Clares of Galway, who dyed the 14 of Janu. adged 63, in religion 40. Pray for her Soule.
9.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 218

As the companion tells it

In a chapel in Galway, a monument marks Maria Gabriel, also called Helen Martin, first Abbess of the Poor Clares of Galway. The stone tells us she died on the 14th of January 1672, aged 63, having spent 40 years in religion. Her inscription ends with a simple request: pray for her soul.

Walter Bourke of Turlagh elected freeman of Galway

Turlagh · townland · Roscommon · 1623

In 1623, Edmond Bourke of Kilcornan, Walter Bourke of Turlagh in County Mayo, and Donell McRobuck Birmingham were elected freemen of Galway, they bearing scot and lot, along with the heirs of their bodies.

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Edmond Bourke, of Kilcornan, esq. Walter Bourke, of Turlagh, in the county of Mayo, esq. and Donell McRobuck Birmingham, and the heirs of their body begot, elected freemen, they bearing scot and lot.
lated the New Testament and Book of Common Prayer into Irish,) and his place was supplied by Richard Martin.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 174

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in Kilcornan, Edmond Bourke lived, a man made a freeman of Galway in 1623. He was elected along with Walter Bourke of Turlagh in county Mayo and Donell McRobuck Birmingham, on condition they bore scot and lot, and that the honour extended to the heirs of their body.

Water courses through Galway mills ordered kept clean

Galway · city · Galway · 1591–1596

Galway by-laws required that the running water courses—through Nicholas Linche's mill and out through Martine's mill—be always kept clean, both within and without the town walls, according to ancient statutes.

Read the passage

That, according to thauncient statuts, the recourse of the runynge water, thats to say, the little geate ditche water, all alonge that intrethe throughe Nicholas Linche' s mill, and the water that intrethe into the gutt, all alonge to the yssuing out of the same in Martine's mill, be allwayes keapt cleane, as well within the walls as without.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 172

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the old town had watercourses running through it that mattered. In the 1590s, by-laws ordered that the running water be kept clean, both within and outside the town walls. That included the little gate ditch water running through Nicholas Linche's mill, and the water issuing out of Martine's mill.

Weekly court of record in the Tholsel of Galway

Galway · city · Galway

The charter authorizes the mayor, sheriffs, and burgesses of Galway to hold a weekly court of record in the Tholsel of the town, or another convenient place within its liberties. The court was to sit on Tuesdays and Fridays before the mayor and recorder, or their deputies.

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corder and commonaltie of our said towne and county of our towne of Gallway, for the tyme being, or the major parte of them, whereof the said mayor and recorder of the said towne, for the tyme being, to be two, at such tyme and tymes, and soe often as they, or the major parte of them, shall think fitt, to make, ordeyne and establish such lawes, statutes or ordinances as aforesaid, and impose and cesse upon all and every person and persons that shall offend against the said lawes, statutes and ordinances, or any of them, such reasonable paines, penalties, punishments, as to the said mayor, sheriffs, free burgesses, recorder and commonaltie, for the tyme being, or the major parte of them, as aforesaid, shall seeme requisite and expedient in that behalfe ; all and singular which said lawes, statutes and ordinances soe to be made, constituted and ordeyned as afore said, wee will and command to be observed, obeyed and performed, under the paines, penalties and punishments therein to be contayned, as aforesaid: PROVIDED that the said lawes, statutes, ordinances paines, penalties and punishments, be reasonable, and not repugnant nor contrary, but agreeable to the lawes, statutes, customes, rights and usages of our said kingdome of Ireland, and unto the rules, orders and directions made and established by our lieutenant and councill of our said kingdome of Ireland beareing date the three and twentyeth day of September, in the yeare 1672, for the better regulateing of the said corporation of our said towne of Gallway, and the electing of magistrates and officers there. AND WEE FURTHER WILL, and by these presents, for us, our heires and successors, doe grant to the said mayor, sheriffs, free burgesses and commonaltie of our said towne and ocunty of our towne of Gallway, and theire successors, that they and theire successors, shall and may, for ever hereafter, have, hold and keepe in the Tholsell of our said towne of Gallway, or in any other convenient place within the said towne, the liberties and precincts thereof, a weekely court of record, on every Tuesday and Friday in the weeke, before the mayor, or his deputy, and the recorder of the said towne, for the tyme being, or his deputy ; and that in the said court they may hold and have cognizance of all and all manner of pleas and actions upon the case, deceipts, debts,

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 299

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town whose charter gave its mayor, sheriffs, free burgesses, recorder and commonalty the power to make laws and ordinances, so long as they were reasonable and not contrary to the laws and usages of the kingdom of Ireland. The charter also granted them the right to hold a weekly court of record in the Tholsel of the town, or any other convenient place within its liberties and precincts. That court sat on every Tuesday and Friday, before the mayor or his deputy and the recorder or his deputy. It had cognizance of all manner of pleas and actions, including debts and deceits. The charter referenced rules established by the lieutenant and council of Ireland, bearing date the 23rd of September 1672, for the better regulating of the corporation of Galway and the electing of its magistrates and officers.

Galway port customs earmarked for walls and paving

Galway · city · Galway

The charter granted that customs and duties levied on merchants importing or exporting goods through the port and quay of Galway would be collected by the town's mayor and burgesses. All revenues were to be spent exclusively on the murage and pavage of the town.

Read the passage

toms and burthens following, viz: All and singular which customs, burthens and usages aforesaid, we do, of our special grace, and of our certain knowledge and mere motion, give and grant for us, our heirs and successors, to the aforesaid mayor, bailiffs, burgesses and commonalty, and their successors, for ever granting and commanding that they, the usages, burthens and customs aforesaid, and every of them, in the town aforesaid, in form aforesaid, from day to day, shall cause and ordain to be levied, collected, received and had : Provided always, that the monies arising thereout shall be faithfully expended on the murage and pavage of said town, and not elsewhere or otherwise.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 272

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town whose charter earmarked port customs for its walls and paving. The charter granted the mayor, bailiffs, burgesses and commonalty the right to collect all customs and duties on goods imported and exported through the port and quay, in perpetuity. Every penny from those revenues was to be faithfully spent on the murage and pavage of the town, and not elsewhere or otherwise.

Henry IV confirms Galway's charters and appoints customs receiver

Galway · city · Galway · 1402

On 12th March 1402, Henry IV granted a charter of confirmation to the provost, bailiffs and commonalty of Galway, ratifying their former liberties and franchises. Sir Stephen Lescrop was appointed to govern County Connaught and receive customs of Galway and Athenry, reserving the salmon fishery in Galway.

Read the passage

returned to its allegiance, and this nefarious project having subsequently fallen to the ground, it enjoyed, from the time of its incorporation, a long and uninterrupted state of peace and tranquility. On 12th March, 1402, Henry IV. granted a charter of confirmation, whereby he accepted, approved and ratified, and to the provost, bailiffs and commonalty, granted and confirmed, the liberties, franchises, jurisdictions, privileges, cognizances, tolls and customs, contained in their former charters. Sir Stephen Lescrop was appointed to the government of the county of Connaught, and receiver of the customs of Gal way and Athenry; with all the profits as well of the custom of the cocket, as the little custom within both towns, for one year, reserving the salmon fishery in Galway. 7 The year following, Sir William de Burgh, John Lyverpull, William Mirreson and John Mirreson, were appointed justices in the lordship and county of Connaught; the town of Galway, which was under the rule of its own Magistracy, only excepted. Sir William was soon afterwards (5th December, 1403), constituted Deputy of Connaught at the fee of 80 marks, with power to grant and receive all the revenues, issues and profits of the Town of Galway, appertaining to the king by reason of the minority of Edmund, son of Roger late earl of March, and also of the great new customs in the port of Galway. 8

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 58

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a city whose medieval self-rule was formally confirmed in 1402. On the 12th of March that year, Henry IV granted a charter of confirmation to the provost, bailiffs and commonalty of Galway, ratifying their liberties, franchises, jurisdictions, privileges, tolls and customs from their earlier charters. The king also appointed Sir Stephen Lescrop to govern the county of Connaught and to receive the customs of Galway and Athenry, both the cocket custom and the little custom within both towns, for one year. The salmon fishery in Galway was reserved from his grant. The following year, Sir William de Burgh and three others were appointed justices in Connaught, with Galway itself excepted because it was under its own magistracy. Sir William was then constituted Deputy of Connaught on the 5th of December 1403, at a fee of 80 marks, with power over the king's revenues from the town, arising from the minority of Edmund, son of Roger, the late earl of March, and over the great new customs in the port of Galway.

1432 justices appointed for Athenry and Galway franchises

Athenry · town · Galway · 1432

In 1432, Alex Lynch, Henry Blake, Richard Styven, and Walter Kervyk were appointed as the king's justices to enquire of all treasons and felonies within the franchise and liberty of Athenry and the town of Galway in Connacht.

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2 The following record seems to support this opinion — In the year 1432, Alex' Lynch, Henry Blake, Richard Styven, and Walter Kervyk, or any three or two of them were appointed the king's justices, to enquire of all treasons, felonies, &c. as well within the franchise and liberty of Hanry. (Athenry,) as within the franchise and liberty of the town of Galvy in Connauo'ht.— Rot. Pat. 10 Hen. VI.
3 The estate of Castlehackett, belonged originally, as the name imports, to the Hackett family, by whom the castle was erected. From, them it pa.ssed. at an early period, to a branch of the Burkes, who were afterwards expelled by Cromwell, and transplanted to Owen near Lough Comb, Castlehackett was parcelled out to

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 22

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in 1432, four men were appointed as the king's justices to enquire into all treasons and felonies within the franchise and liberty of Athenry and the town of Galway in Connacht. The men were Alex Lynch, Henry Blake, Richard Styven, and Walter Kervyk. Any three or two of them could act together. The record comes from the patent rolls of the tenth year of Henry the Sixth.

1813 Population Census of Aran Islands

near Aran Islands · island or archipelago · Galway · 1813

A census of the three Aran Islands was taken by Digby Devenish in 1813, recording a total population of 2400 souls. The data details families employed in agriculture versus trade across several villages, including Killeany and Kilronan.

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Attested by Digby Devenish, the person appointed by the grand-jury to take an account of the population of the three islands of Arran (the same amounting to 2400 souls), this 12th day of August, 1813, before us,
W. Le Poer Trench. John Blake.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 260

Castle Ffrench near Ahascragh raised to peerage 1798

Castle Ffrench · townland · Galway · 1798

The family of Castle Ffrench, near Ahascragh in County Galway, was raised to the dignity of the peerage in 1798. The Right Honorable Charles Baron Ffrench was the present lord at the time of writing.

Read the passage

County of Wexford;^6 from whence, in process of time, they gradually spread throughout the other parts of the kingdom. Two families of the name settled at different periods in Galway, the first, with Walter French, in the reign of Hen. VI. about the year 1425, and the other, with Henry Begg Ffrench, in the reign of Elizabeth; since which time, they have ranked amongst the most considerable in the Province. The family of Castle Ffrench, near Ahascragh, in the County of Galway, was raised to the dignity of the Peerage, in the year 1798. The Right Honorable Charles Baron Ffrench, of Castle Ffrench is the present Lord. The other branches of this respectable name, are those of Ballinahalla, now of Beagh, Carrorea, Elmhill, Ffrenchgrove, Monivea, Portearn, Rahasane and Tyrone in the County of Galway, Ballykeneave and Culliane in the County of Mayo, and Foxborough, Frenchpark, Port, Rocksavage and Snipehill, in the County of Roscommon. 36a
Arms. Ermine, a chevron, sable. Cresf. A Dolphin, embowed, upon rocks, proper. 3" Motto. One heart, one mind.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 20

Galway custom-house built 1807

Galway · city · Galway · 1807

A convenient custom-house was built in Galway in 1807, described as a plain building, not very extensive but fully sufficient for all the business transacted. The overplus duties after defraying port expenses added but very little to national revenue.

Read the passage

to about 2,500 tons, which is supposed to be occasioned by its inferiority to the Scottish kelp in foreign markets. Of late years several cargoes of fine marble have been exported from the extensive quarries near the town; but this branch of trade seems also on the decline. I5 The principal imports are American flaxseed and timber, Swedish and Norway plank and deals, Petersburgh hemp and tallow, Swedish and English iron, steel, coals, etc. Messrs. John and James Burke, John Moore, Messrs. Denis and Hugh Clarke, Messrs. Martin and Fitzgerald, James Costello and Anthony Lynch arfe at present the only merchants who carry on whatever little trade frequents this port. Although the quays and harbour are neglected, a convenient custom-house was built in 1807; it is a plain building, not veiy extensive, but at the same time fully sufficient for all the business transacted in it. The overplus duties, after defraying the expenses of the port establishment, add but very little to the national revenue, notwithstanding the praiseworthy exertions of the Hon. William le Poer Trench, brother of the Earl of Clancarty, and late collector of Galway, to promote the commercial interest of the town.
3. — Corn Trade, Mills, Linen Manufacture, Breweries, etc.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 232

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, there is a custom-house that was built in 1807, a plain building, not very extensive but fully sufficient for all the business transacted in it. The overplus duties, after defraying the expenses of the port establishment, added but very little to the national revenue. The Hon. William le Poer Trench, brother of the Earl of Clancarty and late collector of Galway, nonetheless made praiseworthy exertions to promote the commercial interest of the town.

Galway house of Patrick Martyn with back-side transferred, 1657

Galway · city · Galway · 1640–1657

A slated three-story dwelling-house with a back-side and two backward houses of one story each, owned by Patrick Martyn in 1640, was valued at £18 per year. The 1657 proprietor column shows it passed to English Protestant hands. Multiple entries in this section document the systematic transfer of Galway town properties from Irish Catholic to English Protestant ownership.

Read the passage

A dwelling-house slated, three stories ; with a back-side and a castle slated, three and an half stories
Do. three stories

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this was Patrick Martyn's property in 1640, a slated three-story dwelling-house with a back-side. By 1657 it had passed into English Protestant hands, part of the systematic transfer of Galway properties from Irish Catholic owners.

Galway house with castle confiscated from Lynch to Browne, 1657

Galway · city · Galway · 1640–1657

A three-story slated dwelling-house with a back-side and a slated castle of three and a half stories, owned by James Lynch Fitz-Marcus in 1640, was transferred to Anthony Browne by 1657. Its yearly value was assessed at £19. This is one of many Galway town properties listed as passing from Irish Catholic to English Protestant hands.

Read the passage

A dwelling-house slated, three stories ; with a back-side and a castle slated, three and an half stories
Do. three stories

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 286

As the companion tells it

In Galway here, one of the many properties listed as changing hands after the Cromwellian settlement was a three-story slated dwelling-house with a back-side and a castle slated, three and an half stories. It had belonged to James Lynch Fitz-Marcus in 1640 and was transferred to Anthony Browne by 1657. Its yearly value was assessed at £19.

Queen Anne proclaimed in Galway; Mutton Island fortified

Mutton Island · townland · Galway · 1701

Queen Anne's accession was proclaimed in Galway on 24 March 1701. Under her commission of array, three companies of foot (250 men) were raised in the town and liberties, Mutton Island was fortified, town gates repaired, and a new exchange building proceeded on.

Read the passage

The accession of Queen Anne to the throne was proclaimed in Galway, on the 24th of March, 1701. Her majesty's commission of array soon after issued, under which 3 companies of foot, consisting of 250 men, were raised in the town and liberties. 21 Mutton-island was again fortified; the town gates were repaired, and the building of a new exchange was proceeded on.
While these and other improvements were going forward in the town, the ate of the inhabitants was determined upon in parliament. In the famous

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 136

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Mutton Island, Galway, defences were built in 1701. Queen Anne's accession had been proclaimed in Galway on 24 March that year, and her commission of array followed soon after. Under it, 3 companies of foot, 250 men, were raised in the town and liberties. Mutton Island was fortified, the town gates were repaired, and the building of a new exchange was proceeded on.

Stephen Kerovan translated from Kilmacduagh to Clonfert

Kilmacduagh · townland · Galway · 1532

On 24th May 1532, Stephen Kerovan, a native of Galway, was translated from the bishoprick of Kilmacduach to that of Clonfert. He was later succeeded by Roland Linche, another Galway native, in 1602.

Read the passage

was appointed in 1536 archbishop of Tuam by Hen. VIII. In. 1584 John Lynch Fitz- James was appointed bishop of Elphin by queen Elizabeth. He surrendered his see in 1611, but was charged with wasting its revenues : and it was zaid ' ' that he lived a .concealed, and died a public papist." He lies buried in St. Nicholas' church. On 24th May, 1532, Stephen Kerovan, of Galway, was translated from the bishoprick of Kilmacduach to_±hat of Clonfert ; and in 1602, Roland Linche, another native of Galway, was appointed his successor in Clonfert. This prelate was also charged with defrauding and injuring his successors, by alienating away the property of his church.. In 1606, he made a lease of the entire lands of the bishoprick, consisting of twenty -eight denominations, to Robert Blake, for ninety-nine years, at £5 per annum. — Vide Harris's Ware.
7 Th_e_ archbishop, by his letters, dated on the feast of the Conception, 1487, united the rectory and vicarage of the parochial church of Furanmore (Oranmore) and the vicarage of Meary, both in the diocese of Anaghdown, to the collegiate church, reserving annually out of Furanmore twenty-one ounces of silver money, ,and out of Meary seven ounces. By letters dated 12th April, 1488, he united the vicarage of the parish church of St. Mary of Rathuna (Rahoon), being

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 193

Inquiry into merchants trading at Galway and Sligo ports

Galway · city · Galway · 1425

On 16th May 1425, William Botiller and John Rede were appointed to inquire into all merchants, foreign and native, who came to the ports of Galway and Sligo with wine, oil, honey, wool, skins, hides, lead or other articles liable to customs, and also those who shipped such merchandise. This reflects the considerable expansion of trade and population in Galway during the fifteenth century.

Read the passage

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

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 58

As the companion tells it

Galway was growing in trade and people through this century. On 16th May 1425, William Botiller and John Rede were appointed to inquire into all merchants, foreign and native, who came to the ports of Galway and Sligo with wine, oil, honey, wool, skins, hides, lead or other goods liable to custom or the king's duty, and those who shipped such merchandise out. Two years later, on 20th May 1427, Sir Ulick de Burgo, son of Sir William, and his brother received an order for 20 marks and 40 pounds out of the customs of the town. That was paid to his brother on 24th October that year, to enable him to reduce the Irish. Then on 14th February 1442, William, son of Sir William Bourke, a knight, was granted 10 pounds from the treasury of Ireland for his laudable services in helping the king's collectors gather the customs in the port of Galway. The records of the time are full of entries about collecting the town's revenues and how they were spent.

Sir William de Burgh constituted Deputy of Connaught over Galway revenues

Galway · city · Galway · 1403

Sir William de Burgh was appointed Deputy of Connaught on 5th December 1403 at a fee of 80 marks, with power to collect all revenues and profits of the Town of Galway appertaining to the king during the minority of Edmund, son of Roger late earl of March, including the great new customs in the port of Galway.

Read the passage

returned to its allegiance, and this nefarious project having subsequently fallen to the ground, it enjoyed, from the time of its incorporation, a long and uninterrupted state of peace and tranquility. On 12th March, 1402, Henry IV. granted a charter of confirmation, whereby he accepted, approved and ratified, and to the provost, bailiffs and commonalty, granted and confirmed, the liberties, franchises, jurisdictions, privileges, cognizances, tolls and customs, contained in their former charters. Sir Stephen Lescrop was appointed to the government of the county of Connaught, and receiver of the customs of Gal way and Athenry; with all the profits as well of the custom of the cocket, as the little custom within both towns, for one year, reserving the salmon fishery in Galway. 7 The year following, Sir William de Burgh, John Lyverpull, William Mirreson and John Mirreson, were appointed justices in the lordship and county of Connaught; the town of Galway, which was under the rule of its own Magistracy, only excepted. Sir William was soon afterwards (5th December, 1403), constituted Deputy of Connaught at the fee of 80 marks, with power to grant and receive all the revenues, issues and profits of the Town of Galway, appertaining to the king by reason of the minority of Edmund, son of Roger late earl of March, and also of the great new customs in the port of Galway. 8

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 58

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are on ground where royal authority changed hands in the early 1400s. On 12 March 1402 Henry IV granted the town a charter of confirmation, ratifying the liberties, franchises, jurisdictions, privileges, tolls and customs contained in their former charters. Sir Stephen Lescrop was then appointed to the government of the county of Connaught and receiver of the customs of Galway and Athenry, with all the profits of the cocket custom and the little custom within both towns for one year, though the salmon fishery in Galway was reserved. The following year Sir William de Burgh, John Lyverpull, William Mirreson and John Mirreson were appointed justices in the lordship and county of Connaught, the town of Galway only excepted, as it was under the rule of its own magistracy. Then on 5 December 1403 Sir William de Burgh was constituted Deputy of Connaught at a fee of 80 marks, with power to grant and receive all the revenues, issues and profits of the Town of Galway appertaining to the king by reason of the minority of Edmund, son of Roger late earl of March, and also the great new customs in the port of Galway.

Browne and Patrick's Aisles in Galway church

Galway · city · Galway

Two modern additions to a church, north of French's aisle, are called Browne and Patrick's Aisles without any apparent reason. Patrick's Aisle was also known as Eyre's Aisle because members of the Eyre family were interred there.

Read the passage

34 On the north of French's aisle a small passage leads to two modern additions to the church, which have been called, but without any apparent reason, Browne and Patrick's Aisles. The former is 24 feet long and 13 feet 6 inches broad ; and the latter (also called Eyre's A'sU* from some members of that family which lie interred in it) is of the same length, but only 11 feet 9 inches broad. Th j
260

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 206

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, there's a church here with two modern additions called Browne's Aisle and Patrick's Aisle, north of French's Aisle. The names have no apparent reason behind them. Patrick's Aisle was also known as Eyre's Aisle, because members of the Eyre family were buried there.

Cromwellian land settlement in Galway and Mayo

Galway · city · Galway · 1627

A table lists the denominations of lands, former proprietors, present tenants, and reserved rents for leases dated April 1627. The document stems from commissioners appointed to settle lands and houses in Galway and Mayo belonging to the Commonwealth.

Read the passage

Commissioners appointed for settling the lands and houses, etc., in the counties of Galway and Mayo, belonging to his highness and the commonwealth.
xxii

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 282

As the companion tells it

Passing through Galway, you're in territory caught up in a land settlement back in 1627. Commissioners were appointed for settling the lands and houses in the counties of Galway and Mayo, "belonging to his highness and the commonwealth." Leases from April of that year listed former proprietors, new tenants, and the rents reserved on each holding.

Depression of Galway customs revenue

Galway · city · Galway · 1346

On 3 December 1346 a commission was issued to Walter Blake for custody of the great custom of Galway and elsewhere in Connaught, paying only £22 yearly into the Exchequer, indicating considerably diminished trade revenues.

Read the passage

The De Burgos, for some time after their revolt, retained possession of Galway, but it soon afterwards returned to its allegiance. During the troubles which took place, its improvement appears not to have been unattended to. In the year 1342 the great west bridge was built, under the direction of Edmond Lynch Fitz-Thomas, who was commonly called Emon-a-Tuane, from the great quantity of foreign wines which he annually imported. The trade and revenues of the town, however, were considerably diminised, for on 3d December, 1346, a commission^ was issued by the treasurer of Ireland, to Walter Blake, for the custody of the great custom of Galway and elsewhere in Connaught, he paying into the Exchequer, for the entire, only 221. yearly; and the sheriff of Connaught was commanded that taking from him sufficient security, and the usual oaths that he would faithfully serve the king, he should deliver to him the letters patent : and John Lawless, son of John of Portraghery, late keeper of the customs, was ordered to deliver him the seal of office. This depression of trade was of short duration, for in the year 1361, soon after the accession of Edw. IV. the countess of Ulster applied to the king on behalf of the town, and obtained a murage charter for the purpose of effectually inclosing it with walls. The subjoined extract from this instrument will give the reader a view of the several articles of traffic and commerce, which in these times were prevalent in this part of Ireland. 37 The beneficial effects of
36 Rot. Mem. 19 Edw. III.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 53

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the town carries a story of trade gone thin. After the De Burgo revolt the town returned to allegiance, and in 1342 the great west bridge was built under Edmond Lynch Fitz-Thomas, a man known as Emon-a-Tuane for the great quantity of foreign wines he imported each year. Yet the trade and revenues were considerably diminished. On 3 December 1346 the treasurer of Ireland issued a commission to Walter Blake for custody of the great custom of Galway and elsewhere in Connaught, he paying into the Exchequer for the entire only 22 pounds yearly. The sheriff of Connaught was commanded to take sufficient security and the usual oaths and deliver him the letters patent, and John Lawless, son of John of Portraghery, late keeper of the customs, was ordered to hand over the seal of office. This depression was short-lived. In 1361, after the accession of Edward the Fourth, the countess of Ulster applied to the king on behalf of the town and obtained a murage charter to enclose it with walls.

Forfeited Lands in the Liberties of Galway, 1657

Galway · city · Galway · 1657

An abstract details the forfeited lands in the Liberties of Galway in 1657, listing former proprietors like Alderman D'Arcy and Sir Val. Blake alongside their new tenants and rents. This record reflects the Cromwellian land settlement following the conquest of Ireland.

Read the passage

An Abstract of Forfeited Lands in the Liberties of Galway, 1657.
Denomination of Land.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 281

As the companion tells it

You are passing through Galway, where an abstract of forfeited lands was drawn up in 1657. It listed the lands in the Liberties of Galway, forfeited after the Cromwellian conquest and reassigned to new tenants.

Galway as the metropolis of Connaught

Galway · city · Galway

An historical map of Galway bears a title describing the town as the most renowned metropolis and celebrated emporium of all Connaught in the kingdom of Ireland. This reflects the town's prominent status in the province.

Read the passage

36 An historical delineation of the town of Galway, the most renowned metropolis, and celebrated emporium of all Oonnaught, in the kingdom of Ireland.
37 Earth, seas and tribes, where'er thine

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 29

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you're in a city old maps called "the most renowned metropolis, and celebrated emporium of all Connaught, in the kingdom of Ireland." An historical delineation of the town gave it that title, marking it out as the chief trading city of the whole province.

Galway sustains four masons annually for town pavement

Galway · city · Galway · 1553

A 1553 by-law of Galway ordered that the mayor and bailiffs should annually maintain four masons to work on the repair and pavement of the town, indicating organised civic investment in Galway's streets and infrastructure.

Read the passage

That the mayor and hailiffes do sustain four masons annually to work on the til u rage and pavage of the town.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 169

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this is a town that once took its streets seriously. A by-law of 1553 ordered that the mayor and bailiffs sustain four masons annually to work on the

Island of Altanagh bestowed on nuns of St. Clara

Galway · city · Galway

The island of Altanagh, located in the west liberties of Galway, was bestowed by common seal to the nuns of St. Clara, as recorded in a patent roll of Charles II. This was part of the corporation property mortgaged or disposed of during the civil war period.

Read the passage

The island of Altanagh, in the west liberties, bestowed by common seal to the nuns of St. Clara.— Rot. 25 Car. II. 3 p. f.
34 Irrot. 9th Dec. 1673.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 120

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, over in the west liberties there was once an island called Altanagh. By common seal it was bestowed on the nuns of St. Clara, recorded in a patent roll of Charles the Second during the civil war period.

Murage charter tolls for Galway

Galway · city · Galway

A murage charter granted Galway the right to levy tolls on a wide range of saleable commodities entering the town, including iron, steel, boards, pitch, tallow, fish, hemp, oil, and glass. The charter was renewed in 1374, with a writ issued to the sheriff of Connaught to ensure accounts were rendered.

Read the passage

This murage charter was afterwards renewed, and on 20th October, 1374, a writ issued to the sheriff of Connaught, to distrain the provost and bailiffs of Galvy, by all their lands and chattels, until they should render an account of the murage and pavage by them levied and renewed, of all saleable commodities coming to the town.— Rot. Mem. 48 Edw. III.
38 Stephen de Valle, Bishop of Meath, was thereupon appointed collector of the great and small customs in the port, paying into the Exchequer 40 marks yearly ; and the king's seal called the cocket was to remain in his custody. — Rot. Pat. 49 Edw. III. On the same day Nicholas Calf, one of the burgesses of the town, was constittued his deputy; and on the 12th May, same year, Stephen Penrys, another burgess, was apointed comptroller: and it was ordered that one part of the seal, called the cockett, should remain in his custodv. — Rot. Mem. Scac. 49 Edw. III.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 54

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town that once levied tolls on saleable goods entering its walls under a murage charter. That charter was renewed on the 20th of October 1374, when a writ went to the sheriff of Connaught ordering him to distrain the provost and bailiffs of Galway by all their lands and chattels until they rendered an account of the murage and pavage they had levied. Stephen de Valle, Bishop of Meath, was then appointed collector of the great and small customs in the port, paying 40 marks yearly into the Exchequer, with the king's seal, called the cocket, in his custody. Nicholas Calf, one of the burgesses, was made his deputy, and on the 12th of May that same year Stephen Penrys, another burgess, became comptroller, with one part of the cocket seal entrusted to him.

Semper family lands at Athenry

Athenry · town · Galway · 1625

Edmond Semper of Athenry died seized of the lands of Monyscribe, Coldragh, Lissinas, and Bealagare, which descended to his son John Semper and widow Margaret Barry.

Read the passage

19 Edmond Semper of Athenry, Gent, died 8th May. 1625 ; he was seized of the lands of Monyscribe, Coldragh, Lissinas, Bealagare, &c. which descended to his son John Semper, and his widow Margaret Barry. — Id.
20 Lynch in vita Kirovani.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 25

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Athenry, Edmond Semper, a gentleman, died on the 8th of May 1625. He held the lands of Monyscribe, Coldragh, Lissinas, and Bealagare, which passed to his son John Semper and his widow Margaret Barry.

Thomas O'Casy appointed receiver of Galway and Connaught, 1385

Galway · city · Galway · 1385

Thomas O'Casy was appointed seneschal and receiver of Galway on 4 July 1385, with authority over all the king's lordships in Connaught, including holding courts, appointing officers, levying rents, and collecting fishings and profits.

Read the passage

About this time Thomas Alwyne was seneschal and receiver of the town: he was succeeded, on 4th July, 1385, by Thomas O'Casy, who, in addition to those offices, was also appointed receiver of all the king s lordships in Connaught; was invested with power to hold the king's courts, appoint officers and sub-receivers, levy the king's rents and the issues of his lordships, constitute portrieves and other officers, and receive their oaths; superintend and collect all the fishings and other profits, and set them to
40 Tlie following is one of the many instances which occurred, of the general inconvenience occasioned by the removal of the staple. — Thomas Lvnche, John Athie, William Botiller, William Webhe and Edmund Blake, of Galvy. merchants, and John Rede, Henry Heryng and' John n' Morkowe, merchants of Athenry. having freighted a ship of Lubyk in Spain, with 53 lasts, and IK dacres (180,) and 7 hides in the port of Galway. she began her voyage on St; Laurence's day. 1413, for Kynsale, there to pay the custom due for the said hides, because the king had then no

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 55

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Galway, you're passing through a town that was once a hub of royal authority in the west. On the 4th of July 1385, Thomas O'Casy was appointed seneschal and receiver of Galway, succeeding Thomas Alwyne in those offices. His authority reached well beyond the town itself. He was made receiver of all the king's lordships in Connaught, with power to hold the king's courts, appoint officers and sub-receivers, and levy the king's rents. He could constitute portrieves and other officers, receive their oaths, superintend and collect all fishings and profits, and set them to farm. In effect, one man held the machinery of royal government across the whole province from this town.

Blake's Castle near the strand

Galway · city · Galway

Blake's Castle stood on the south side of Galway near the strand. It was one of the fourteen principal castles or mansion houses of Galway's nobility and citizens.

Read the passage

T. Blake's castle, on the south near the strand.
V. The mansion house, of Sir Robert Lynch baronet.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 31

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, Blake's Castle stood on the south side of the town near the strand. It was one of the fourteen principal castles or mansion houses of Galway's nobility and citizens.

Lynch's Castle in central Galway

Galway · city · Galway

Lynch's Castle was located in the middle of the city of Galway. It was listed among the fourteen remarkable edifices, castles or mansion houses of the nobility, gentry and citizens of Galway.

Read the passage

S. Lynch' s castle, in the middle of the city.
T. Blake's castle, on the south near the strand.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 31

As the companion tells it

Lynch's Castle stood in the middle of the city of Galway. It was counted among the fourteen remarkable edifices, castles and mansion houses of the nobility, gentry and citizens of Galway.

O'Halloran castle near Barna acquired by Lynch family

near Barna · street · Galway

Four miles west of Galway, near Barna, are the remains of an old castle which formerly belonged to the O'Hallorans. The Lynch family acquired this ancient inheritance by marriage with an heiress of that old Irish sept.

Read the passage

Four miles west of Galway, near Barna, are tbe remains of an old castle, which
History of gal way.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 24

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Barna are the remains of an old castle that once belonged to the O'Hallorans. The Lynch family came into this ancient inheritance through marriage with an heiress of that old Irish sept.

Thomas French priest monument in Franciscan cemetery

Galway · city · Galway · 1629

A monument in the Franciscan cemetery in Galway bears a Latin inscription praying for the soul of Father Thomas French, a priest who died on the 28th of October 1629.

Read the passage

On another : Orate pro anima Thomae French sacerdotis qui obiit XJicefimo Octavo Octobris, 1629. F. R.
278

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 218

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the Franciscan cemetery holds a monument to Father Thomas French, a priest who died on the 28th of October 1629. The stone bears a Latin inscription asking prayers for his soul.

Sir John Bourke of Derrymacklaghney admitted freeman of Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1618

In 1618, Sir Charles Coote, Sir John Bourke of Derrymacklaghney, John Bourke of Downsandle, and John Jacob of Galway were all admitted as freemen of the town of Galway.

Read the passage

Sir Charles Coote, knight, Sir John Bourke ,of Derrymacklaghney, knight,, Mr. John Bourke, of Downsandle, esq. and John Jacob, of Galway, admitted freemen.
1623.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 174

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, in 1618 this town admitted several new freemen, among them Sir Charles Coote, Sir John Bourke of Derrymacklaghney, John Bourke of Downsandle, and John Jacob of Galway.

Admiralty of Galway Bay granted by royal charter

near Aran Islands · island or archipelago · Galway · 1509–1687

By the charter of Henry VIII, the corporation of Galway obtained a grant of the port and bay running between the Aran Islands to the town. Queen Elizabeth granted that every mayor should be admiral over the islands of Arran and the waters to the town, with rights to wrecks, forfeitures, and fines, later confirmed by Charles II. James II refused to include the admiralty privilege in his 1687 charter, but it revived when that charter became void.

Read the passage

By the charter of Henry VIII. the corporation obtained a grant of the port and bay, or arm of the sea which enters between the islands of Arran, and from thence runs or flows into the town. Queen Elizabeth afterwards granted that every mayor should be admiral within the town and franchises, over the islands of Arran . and from thence to the town, on both sides of the water, as well by sea as by land, and fresh waters, with all jurisdiction belonging thereto ; and also that the corporation should be entitled to all wrecks of the sea, forfeitures, fines, etc., arising by reason of such admiralty ; which were thenceforth accordingly enjoyed, and were afterwards confirmed by the charter of Charless II., which restored to the corporation all privileges contained in any former grants. In 1687 it was resolved in council that the old privileges, particularly that of the admiralty of the bay, should be included in the new chai-- ter of James II. This the king not only refused to concede, but even inserted a clause savins: the rights of the lord high admiral. This charter soon becoming void, the old jurisdiction was again revived; but the vice-admiral of Connaught

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 229

Ancient castles and mansions of Galway families

Galway · city · Galway

Numerous ancient houses and castles remained in Galway, many still inhabited and in good repair. Principal examples included Penrice's castle in William-street, Blake's mansion behind the Shamble barrack, the Bodkins' mansion in Back-street, the Brownes' mansion in William-street, and the Darcys' mansion near the abbey gate.

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7 There are, besides these, the remains of several ancient houses or castles in the town, many of which are still in good repair, and inhabited. They are too numerous to be separately pointed out here ; but the following are the principal : — Penrice's ancient castle, in William-street; Athy's, which lay in Lombard-street, near the barrack; Blake's mansion-house, at the rere of the Shamble barrack ; the mansion of the Bodkins, of Carrowbeg, in Back-street, opposite Whitehall, and that of another branch of the same name, opposite the old Augustinian convent ; the mansion-house of the Brownes, of Castlemagaaret, in William-street ; and that of the Darcys, near the abbey gate, on the right; the Frenches' mansion, in Marketstreet, now the Franciscan nunnery ; also that of the Frenches, of Grenage_ (a younger branch of the Rahasane family),
in Middle-street, in which the assemblies are at present held ; Joyes' or Joyce's house, at the corner of Market-street, in Abbeygate-street. This family was the head of the name. Kitrwan's mansion, facing the south aisle and tower of the church ; the court of the Lynches, of Castlecarra, built in the Spanish style, at the corner of Abbeygate-street; the Martins', of Gregans, dwelling in Marketstreet, nearly opposite the Franciscan convent; that of the Martins, of Gort-naclevy at the corner of Watergate-street, near the Dominican convent ; and the Skerritts' ancient residence, which faced the south side of the church. The arms of these different families may be seen in buildings, together with the names of the many places sculptured in stone on these founders and the dates of their erection. Under many of these old houses there are

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 227

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the town still holds the remains of several ancient houses and castles, many of them in good repair and still inhabited. They are too numerous to point out one by one, but the principal ones give a sense of how thick these old family strongholds once stood. Penrice's ancient castle stood in William-street, and the Brownes' mansion was there too. Blake's mansion-house lay behind the Shamble barrack. The Bodkins of Carrowbeg had their mansion in Back-street, opposite Whitehall, and another branch of the same family lived opposite the old Augustinian convent. The Darcys' mansion stood near the abbey gate. Athy's was in Lombard-street near the barrack. The Frenches had a mansion in Market-street, now the Franciscan nunnery, and another in Middle-street where the assemblies are held. Joyes' house stood at the corner of Market-street and Abbeygate-street, and that family was the head of the name. The Lynches of Castlecarra built their court in the Spanish style at the corner of Abbeygate-street. The Martins had dwellings in Market-street and at the corner of Watergate-street near the Dominican convent. The Skerritts' ancient residence faced the south side of the church, and Kirwan's mansion faced the south aisle and tower. The arms of these families may still be seen on the buildings, together with the names of their founders and the dates of their erection, sculptured in stone. Under many of these old houses there are vaults.

Athenry's decline after destruction

Athenry · town · Galway · 1585–1596

Queen Elizabeth directed a new charter for the decayed town of Athenry in 1585, and some buildings were erected, but these were destroyed in 1596. Since then Athenry has been entirely neglected and reduced to an inconsiderable village.

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Francis Walsingham- The queen, accordingly, by privy signet, dated at Westminster, the 18th April, 1585, directed the lord deputy to "pass© forthwith a boke, containing not only a confirmation of the old charter and preveleges of the said decaied town, but also a new grant to the full effect of the said petition ; because," as she adds, "it will redounde not only to their private commoditie, but also to the benefit of us and of that our realm, espicalie of the province of Connaught." — It does not appear, however, that any new charter passed the great seal, but several buildings^ were erected, and many other improvements made, which were destroyed as above, in 1596. Since that time Athenry has been entirely neglected, and, although once esteemed of so much importance, it is at present reduced to the state of an inconsiderable village.
ioo

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 83

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Athenry, you are meeting a town that was already being called a decayed town in 1585. Queen Elizabeth directed a new charter for it that April, saying it would benefit not only the people but the realm and the province of Connaught. No new charter ever passed the great seal, but several buildings went up and improvements were made. All of that was destroyed in 1596, and since then Athenry has been entirely neglected. A place once esteemed of great importance is now reduced to an inconsiderable village.

Chalybeate spring outside Galway's east gate

Galway · city · Galway

A chalybeate spring, once held in great repute, was located about 20 feet below street level outside the east gate of Galway. Though a spa-house was formerly erected over it, it later fell into disuse, but poorer people still used the water with great success for nervous disorders, scurvies, vertigoes, and chlorosis.

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6 A chalybeate spring (of the same class as the celebrated Scarborough waters) about 20 feet below the level of tho street, outside the east gate, was once m great repute here ; but it has long since ralien into disuse. A spa-house had been formerly erected over it by Mr. Eyre, the proprietor, and it was for some time much frequented by company ; but they afterwards gradually declined. For an analysis of this water, made in 1751, by doctor Rutty, see his treatise. Doctor Ambrose Lynch, to whom, according to that author, the public was indebted for its recommendation, informed him that he had used it only as an alternative, having given it from one to three pints ; he found it operate chiefly by urine, but that, taken as far as six pints, it purged. Several of the poorer people had used it for some years with great success, and several of the doctor's patients drank it with gtreat benefit, particularly in all nervous disorders of both sexes, scurvies, vertigoes
and chlorosis. — p. 341. This medicinal water is still used by some of the poorer classes with good effect.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 227

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, there was once a chalybeate spring about 20 feet below street level, just outside the east gate. It was the same class of water as the celebrated Scarborough waters, and a Mr. Eyre built a spa-house over it, which was much frequented for a time. The spring gradually fell into disuse, but poorer people continued to drink it with great success. A Doctor Rutty analysed the water in 1751, and Doctor Ambrose Lynch, who recommended it to the public, said he gave it in amounts from one to three pints as an alternative remedy. He found it worked chiefly by urine, though six pints would purge. Patients drank it with benefit, particularly for nervous disorders of both sexes, scurvies, vertigoes, and chlorosis. The medicinal water was still being used by some of the poorer classes with good effect.

Cong as ancient seat of provincial kings

Cong · town · Mayo

Cong, though now but a small village, was anciently a place of considerable note and the occasional residence of the provincial kings. It is the upper terminus of boat navigation from Galway via Lough Corrib.

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water, and carrying generally from ten to twenty tons, with one square sail and four men, to Cong (which, though now but a small village, was anciently a place of considerable note, and the occasional residence of our provincial kmgs) . They seldom sail unless before the wind ; and though the lake has many islets and sunk rocks, the only serious difficulty in the navigation is at Buachaly Shoal, about four miles up the lake, and at Newcastle. These shoals could be deepened for a small sum and the whole made to admit vessels of much greater magnitude. This tine navigation, which extends about thirty miles, and into a sea-port town, seems to deserve much more attention than it has vet received. A good chart, with soundings and sailing directions, should be published, the shoals or rocks cleared or beaconed, and a communication opened with the sea. Two docks only would be required, which, exclusive of property of no great value, it was estimated would cost about £6,000. These, if of sufficient dimensions to admit vessels of burden, would give Galway all the advantages of wet docks,
K K

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 226

Decline of Galway's commerce and wine trade

Galway · city · Galway

The former extensive commerce of Galway, particularly its wine trade, had long since disappeared. Hardiman attributes the decline not to merchant dishonesty as claimed by English tourists, but to civil commotions, penal laws, and mercantile restrictions imposed in favour of England over the previous two centuries.

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In several parts of this volume the former extensive commerce of Galway has been mentioned; and the causes of its decline have been so distinctly pointed out that it is considered unnecessary to repeat them here : it is esteemed equally so to spend much time in refuting the illiberal aspersions attempted to be cast on this ancient, respectable, and long persecuted town by a recent English tourist of some celebrity, 1° who, from "report," thought proper to attribute its decline to want of principle in its merchants — an imputation which almost every page in this work incontestibly proves to be unfounded. Had this gentleman but for a moment reflected on the past situation of this too frequently misrepresented country, he would have perceived that the decay of this, and of many other places in Ireland, is entirely attributable to civil commotions, to penal laws, and to the many mercantile restrictions imposed in favour of England for the two last centuries. It is, therefore, hoped that he may consider it an act of justice to a respectable class of individuals to retract what might have been perhaps inadvertently advanced, but which certainly affects the credit of a work otherwise deserving well of Ireland.
2. — Exports and Imports.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 231

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town whose commerce was once extensive, with a wine trade that has long since disappeared. Hardiman records that an English tourist, relying on report, blamed the decline on a want of principle among Galway's merchants. Hardiman calls this an illiberal aspersion and says almost every page of his work proves it unfounded. He attributes the decay instead to civil commotions, to penal laws, and to the many mercantile restrictions imposed in favour of England over the previous two centuries. The merchants were a respectable class of individuals, and their credit, in his view, deserves better than what was perhaps inadvertently advanced against them.

Decline of the Corporation of Galway

Galway · city · Galway

The corporation of the town and county of the town of Galway had, by the early 19th century, lost its former state and insignia. Its ancient offices of alderman, chamberlain, and burgess had fallen into disuse, its possessions were alienated, and it was upheld mainly for the patronage and parliamentary representation it conferred on a single respectable family.

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The corporation of "the town and county of the town of Galway" is at present little more than a name : the ancient state and insignia of that formerly proud and opulent body have been entirely laid aside; the eld and creditable offices of alderman, chamberlain, burgess, etc., have fallen into disuse, and its possessions have been alienated; so that it now seems to be upheld by the respectable family in which it has become almost hereditary, merely for the valuable patronage which it confers, 9 and for the parliamentary representation of the town, which is commanded by
sion however, of one of the persons by whom it was made, no doubt remains of its having been deficient in the number of inhabitants. The people in the vicinity of the town, apprehensive that a military ballot, or some similar project, was in view, evaded giving a true account ; and in many places the inquirers were deterred by menaces from venturing among the villages. Being, however, esteemed accurate in all other respects, it is here given as a curious document, intimately connected with /the modern description of the town. The total was given as 13,715.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 229

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Galway, a city whose corporation was once proud and opulent. By the early 19th century, the corporation of the town and county of the town of Galway was little more than a name. Its ancient offices of alderman, chamberlain, and burgess had fallen into disuse, and its possessions had been alienated. The old state and insignia were entirely laid aside. It survived mainly because it had become almost hereditary in one respectable family, kept alive for the patronage it conferred and for the parliamentary representation of the town. A census of the town, though thought to have undercounted its people, gave a total of 13,715.

Demolition of Galway's old fortifications and abbey-gate

Galway · city · Galway · 1779–1792

The old defensive walls and fortifications of Galway had been going fast to decay for over half a century before 1792. The abbey-gate was pulled down in 1779, and the remaining bulwarks were almost entirely demolished to make way for handsome new buildings.

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Gal way is built on the extremity of a narrow peninsulated neck of land, which rises with a gentle ascent from the sea and river. It formerly contained within the walls (which described nearly an oval figure) 3,426 square perches, or 21 acres, 1 rood, and 26 perches, Irish plantation, by actual admeasurement. The character of this, like all other ancient cities, is that of a fortress, the greatest quantity of building crowded into the smallest space, with walls, gates and ditches of defence. For more than half a century before 1 792 the fortifications had been going fast to decay : the abbey-gate was pulled down in 1779, and the remainder of these mouldering bulwarks were falling to the ground. Since that time, however, they have been almost entirely demolished, and handsome buildings are rapidly extending on all sides, so that the town now covers nearly double the space which was formerly occupied within the walls. The old Spanish-built castles which periods of turbulence and danger rendered necessary for personal security, are gradually disappearing, and convenient modern edifices are rising on their ruins. Several of these ancient structures, though some centuries built, are still in good repair, and many of them are inhabited by numerous families. They are generally square, with a small court in the centre, and an arched gate- way leading to the street : but are, however, daily giving place to more commodious dwellings, better suited to the present improved state and manners of society. Dominick-street, at the west end of the town, which contains a number of excellent houses, chiefly inhabited by many of our most respectable gentry, was laid out and built within the last mentioned period. The town has also improved

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 227

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are moving across ground that was once packed tight behind walls. The town was built on a narrow peninsula rising gently from the sea and river, and within its walls it held about 21 acres, shaped nearly like an oval. Like all old cities, it was a fortress, with the greatest quantity of building crowded into the smallest space, defended by walls, gates and ditches. For more than half a century before 1792 those fortifications had been going fast to decay. The abbey-gate was pulled down in 1779, and the rest of the mouldering bulwarks were falling to the ground. Since then they have been almost entirely demolished, and handsome buildings are rapidly extending on all sides, so that the town now covers nearly double the space it once occupied within the walls. The old Spanish-built castles, which periods of turbulence and danger made necessary for personal security, are gradually disappearing, and convenient modern edifices are rising on their ruins. Several of these ancient structures, though built some centuries ago, are still in good repair and inhabited by numerous families. They are generally square, with a small court in the centre and an arched gateway leading to the street, but they are daily giving place to more commodious dwellings. Dominick Street, at the west end of the town, was laid out and built within this same period.

Development of Dominick Street in Galway

Dominick Street · street · Cork

Dominick Street, situated at the west end of Galway town, features a number of excellent houses inhabited by respectable gentry. The street was laid out and built within the period leading up to 1792, replacing the old crowded defensive layout.

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Gal way is built on the extremity of a narrow peninsulated neck of land, which rises with a gentle ascent from the sea and river. It formerly contained within the walls (which described nearly an oval figure) 3,426 square perches, or 21 acres, 1 rood, and 26 perches, Irish plantation, by actual admeasurement. The character of this, like all other ancient cities, is that of a fortress, the greatest quantity of building crowded into the smallest space, with walls, gates and ditches of defence. For more than half a century before 1 792 the fortifications had been going fast to decay : the abbey-gate was pulled down in 1779, and the remainder of these mouldering bulwarks were falling to the ground. Since that time, however, they have been almost entirely demolished, and handsome buildings are rapidly extending on all sides, so that the town now covers nearly double the space which was formerly occupied within the walls. The old Spanish-built castles which periods of turbulence and danger rendered necessary for personal security, are gradually disappearing, and convenient modern edifices are rising on their ruins. Several of these ancient structures, though some centuries built, are still in good repair, and many of them are inhabited by numerous families. They are generally square, with a small court in the centre, and an arched gate- way leading to the street : but are, however, daily giving place to more commodious dwellings, better suited to the present improved state and manners of society. Dominick-street, at the west end of the town, which contains a number of excellent houses, chiefly inhabited by many of our most respectable gentry, was laid out and built within the last mentioned period. The town has also improved

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 227

As the companion tells it

Along here on Dominick Street, you are passing through one of the newer quarters of old Galway, laid out and built in the decades before 1792. Galway itself was built on a narrow peninsula rising gently from the sea and river, and for centuries it was a fortress town, the greatest quantity of building crowded into the smallest space, ringed by walls, gates and ditches. Within those walls it measured 3,426 square perches, or 21 acres, 1 rood and 26 perches, Irish plantation. For more than half a century before 1792 the fortifications had been going fast to decay. The abbey-gate was pulled down in 1779, and the remaining bulwarks were falling to the ground. After that they were almost entirely demolished, and the town now covers nearly double the space it once occupied within the walls. The old Spanish-built castles, made for times of turbulence and danger, are gradually disappearing, and convenient modern edifices are rising on their ruins. These ancient structures were generally square, with a small court in the centre and an arched gateway leading to the street, but they are daily giving place to more commodious dwellings. This street, at the west end of the town, was part of that transformation, containing a number of excellent houses chiefly inhabited by many of the most respectable gentry.

Galway corporation's admiralty jurisdiction dispute

Galway · city · Galway · 1701–1704

The corporation of Galway claimed admiralty jurisdiction over the bay under its charters. Prince George of Denmark sought a quo warranto against the town in 1704, and legal proceedings were commenced, but after the town sheriffs defended the claim under several charters, no further action was taken and the mayor retained the empty title of admiral of the bay.

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frequently interrupted the corporation, and complained to the lords of the admiralty of the claims made by the town to this jurisdiction. In 1701 the secretary of state endeavoured by letter to deter the mayor from persisting in the right ; but the corporation having still continued to exercise it. prince George of Denmark, lord high-admiral of England, presented a memorial to queen Anne in council for a quo warranto against the town. Her majesty accordingly, by order dated 4th December, 1704. referred the matter to the duke of Ormond, who. on the 7th of March following, directed the attorney and solicitor-general of Ireland to examine and report on the occasion. They accordingly issued their summons, and a common council having immediately been railed in the town, it was resolved to defend the right and forthwith to lay their title before these law officers ; whose report does not apn°ar to have been favourable, for proceedings were soon after commenced. In answer to these the townsheriffs returned, that the admiralty was held Under several chai-ters ; and a voluminous plea to that effect was soon afterwards put in, which still remains of record in the office of the Treasurer's Remebrancer of the Exchequer. After this no further proceedings were taken : and the
mayor- has been ever since left at liberty to assume, if he pleased, the empty title of admiral of the bay.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 230

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the bay here was once the subject of a legal battle over who controlled it. The corporation claimed admiralty jurisdiction over the bay under several of its charters, and complaints reached the lords of the admiralty. In 1701 the secretary of state wrote to deter the mayor from persisting in the claim, but the corporation kept exercising it. Prince George of Denmark, lord high-admiral of England, then presented a memorial to Queen Anne in council seeking a quo warranto against the town. On 4 December 1704 the Queen referred the matter to the Duke of Ormond, who on 7 March directed the attorney and solicitor-general of Ireland to examine and report. The town called a common council and resolved to defend the right, laying their title before these law officers. Their report does not appear to have been favourable, for proceedings were soon commenced. The town sheriffs answered that the admiralty was held under several charters, and a voluminous plea to that effect was put in, still of record in the office of the Treasurer's Remembrancer of the Exchequer. After this no further proceedings were taken, and the mayor has been left ever since to assume the empty title of admiral of the bay.

Galway's commercial decline under anti-Catholic enactments

Galway · city · Galway

Galway was formerly one of the greatest commercial towns in the British dominions, ranked second only to Dublin after the 17th-century civil wars. Its subsequent decline is attributed to its predominantly Catholic population, which felt the severe effects of punitive legislative enactments in Ireland.

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spacious, and is capable of affording protection to the largest fleets. 2 The town itself, to which vessels of upwards of four hundred tons burden can come up, is admirably situated for commerce with Europe and the Indies, and is celebrated for having formerly been one of the greatest commercial towns in the British dominions. 3 Even after the civil wars of the seventeenth century, when the town was much reduced from its former opulence, the cities of Ireland ranked in the following order : Dublin, Galway, Waterford, Cork, and Londonderry;^ but it is now surpassed not only by all these, but also by many other places then scarcely known or heard of. This change is easily accounted for : Galway was always a Catholic town, and therefore felt more severely than others the fatal effects of those impolitic enactments which so long and so heavily afflicted the greater part of his majesty's subjects in Ireland. It would not, however, be surprising, even after all it has suffered, if it should, from its situation, yet become one of the principal emporiums for trade between these countries and the new world. 5
2. — Climate and Salubrity.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 227

As the companion tells it

Coming up now through Galway, a city that once stood among the greatest commercial towns in the British dominions. After the civil wars of the 17th century, when it was much reduced from its former wealth, the cities of Ireland ranked Dublin first, then Galway, Waterford, Cork, and Londonderry. Today it is surpassed not only by all of those but by many places scarcely known back then. The reason is straightforward. Galway was always a Catholic town, and so it felt more severely than others the effects of the punitive enactments that long afflicted the greater part of the king's subjects in Ireland. Its harbour is spacious enough to shelter the largest fleets, and vessels of over 400 tons can come right up to the town. Its situation is well placed for trade with Europe and the Indies. The source even suggests that, despite all it has suffered, its position might yet make it one of the principal emporiums for trade with the new world.

Galway town and its natural advantages

Galway · city · Galway

Galway is situated on the River Corrib, which drains Lough Corrib into the Atlantic. The bay is described as one of the noblest entrances in the world, extending nearly thirty miles east of the Aran Islands.

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Galway is advantageously situated on the side of a broad and rapid river, to which it gives name, and by which the extensive Lake Corrib pouvs its redundant waters into the ocean. 1 It lies in 53 deg. 16 north latitude, and 8 deg. 58 west longitude from Greenwich; is distant from Dublin, in nearly a direct line, bout 104 Irish miles, and is the most westerly town of consequence in Europe. The bay is esteemed one of the noblest entrances in the world : it extends nearly thirty miles eastward of the isles of Arran, and contains innumerable roads and harbours. The haven is safe and
1 The importance of this extensive lake towards facilitating the internal navigation of the western parts of Ireland was briefly pointed out in a preceding note. Here a few interesting and, to this part of the kingdom, highly valuable extracts, on th» same subject, will be given, principally from the reports of the scientific and ingenious Mr. Alexandei Nimmo to parliament, on the survey of the bogs of this district. The lake (which, according to these reports, has 50 miles of shore, occupies 30 000 Irish acres, and contains about 1,000 acres of arable land in its isles) . contracts into a very spacious river about 21 miles above Galway, which, flowing by the town, communicates with the Atlantic. The fall from the summit level of the lake to the sea is considerable ; but to the Wood-quay, above the town, it is trifling, and the river is in parts very shallow running over a bed of rocks and hard gravel. It is not navigable from the sea to the Wood-quay owing to the shallowness and the rapidity of the water, and none but small boats can come down ; but, unless in very dry seasons, it is thence navigable by boats drawing four feet of

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 226

As the companion tells it

Galway sits on the River Corrib, which drains Lough Corrib into the Atlantic. The bay is esteemed one of the noblest entrances in the world, extending nearly thirty miles east of the Aran Islands. This is the most westerly town of consequence in Europe, about 104 Irish miles from Dublin. Lough Corrib is a vast body of water, with 50 miles of shore and 30,000 Irish acres, holding about 1,000 acres of arable land in its islands. It contracts into a spacious river about 21 miles above the town. The fall from the summit level of the lake to the sea is considerable, but to the Wood-quay above the town it is trifling, and the river runs shallow over a bed of rocks and hard gravel. It is not navigable from the sea to the Wood-quay owing to the shallowness and rapidity of the water, and only small boats can come down. Unless in very dry seasons, it is navigable from the Wood-quay by boats drawing four feet.

Lombard-street named for Italian Lombard merchants

Galway · city · Galway

Lombard-street in Galway was named after the Lombards, a mercantile people of Italy who formerly resorted to the area for trade. Houses were built there by the late Michael Rush near the churchyard.

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Although most of the dwelling-houses are old, there are, however, several excellent private buildings interspersed throughout the town. Amongst these the following will attract particular attention : — the handsome dwelling of Mr. Daly, the late mayor, situate in Back-street (which street was so called from its backward situation), and that opposite to it, built by the late Martin Lynch; the elegant dwellings and spacious stores, in the same street, built by Messrs. Walter and John Joyce; the residence of the late Lord Ffrench, facing Middle-street (so named from its central situation); the large houses in Shop-street (so called because in this street the first shops were opened), built by the late Nicholas Lynch, of Barna; and those recently raised by Mr. Morgan Connolly; the new buildings and shops erected by Mr. Thomas Hynes, on the site of the old free-school, in Highstreet (a street so termed from its high or elevated situation); the handsome houses in Watergate-street, built by the late Nicholas Burke Edmond; several good houses at the Spanish-parade (a small square at the S.W. corner of the town, where the Spanish merchants were formerly accustomed to assemble); those built by the late Michael Rush at the churchyard leading to Lombard-street (a part of the town so called from the Lombards, a mercantile people of Italy, who formerly resorted here for the purpose of traffic).7 To these, as more recent improvements, may He added the road in the east suburbs, leading by Erasmus Smith's new school to Oranmore, the alterations making by Mr. Eyre at the green, the projected quay, the handsome bridge lately built over the river at Newtown-Smith, and the intended street to the new court-house, which, with many other private buildings in progress, add considerably to the extent and appearance of the town.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 227

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, Lombard-street takes its name from the Lombards, a mercantile people of Italy who formerly came to this part of the town for the purpose of traffic. The late Michael Rush built houses there by the churchyard, among several private buildings that marked the town's improving appearance.

Lynch's Castle and court in Abbeygate-street

Galway · city · Galway

The court of the Lynches of Castlecarra, built in the Spanish style, stood at the corner of Abbeygate-street. Lynch's Castle in Shop-street had a singular tenure: an apartment at the rear belonged to Colonel Anthony Ffrench while the rest was the fee property of the Staunton family.

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in Middle-street, in which the assemblies are at present held ; Joyes' or Joyce's house, at the corner of Market-street, in Abbeygate-street. This family was the head of the name. Kitrwan's mansion, facing the south aisle and tower of the church ; the court of the Lynches, of Castlecarra, built in the Spanish style, at the corner of Abbeygate-street; the Martins', of Gregans, dwelling in Marketstreet, nearly opposite the Franciscan convent; that of the Martins, of Gort-naclevy at the corner of Watergate-street, near the Dominican convent ; and the Skerritts' ancient residence, which faced the south side of the church. The arms of these different families may be seen in buildings, together with the names of the many places sculptured in stone on these founders and the dates of their erection. Under many of these old houses there are

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 227

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, Abbeygate-street marks the corner where the Lynches of Castlecarra built their court in the Spanish style. It was one of several old family mansions around the town, and the arms of these families, with names and dates, were sculptured in stone on the buildings.

New bridge at Newtown-Smith over the river

Newtownsmith · street · Galway

A handsome bridge was lately built over the river at Newtown-Smith, part of recent improvements in the east suburbs of Galway. A road led by Erasmus Smith's new school to Oranmore, along with a projected quay and intended street to the new court-house.

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Although most of the dwelling-houses are old, there are, however, several excellent private buildings interspersed throughout the town. Amongst these the following will attract particular attention : — the handsome dwelling of Mr. Daly, the late mayor, situate in Back-street (which street was so called from its backward situation), and that opposite to it, built by the late Martin Lynch; the elegant dwellings and spacious stores, in the same street, built by Messrs. Walter and John Joyce; the residence of the late Lord Ffrench, facing Middle-street (so named from its central situation); the large houses in Shop-street (so called because in this street the first shops were opened), built by the late Nicholas Lynch, of Barna; and those recently raised by Mr. Morgan Connolly; the new buildings and shops erected by Mr. Thomas Hynes, on the site of the old free-school, in Highstreet (a street so termed from its high or elevated situation); the handsome houses in Watergate-street, built by the late Nicholas Burke Edmond; several good houses at the Spanish-parade (a small square at the S.W. corner of the town, where the Spanish merchants were formerly accustomed to assemble); those built by the late Michael Rush at the churchyard leading to Lombard-street (a part of the town so called from the Lombards, a mercantile people of Italy, who formerly resorted here for the purpose of traffic).7 To these, as more recent improvements, may He added the road in the east suburbs, leading by Erasmus Smith's new school to Oranmore, the alterations making by Mr. Eyre at the green, the projected quay, the handsome bridge lately built over the river at Newtown-Smith, and the intended street to the new court-house, which, with many other private buildings in progress, add considerably to the extent and appearance of the town.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 227

As the companion tells it

Along here in the east suburbs of Galway, a handsome bridge was lately built over the river at Newtown-Smith. It formed part of a wave of recent improvements that included a road leading by Erasmus Smith's new school out to Oranmore, a projected quay, and an intended street running to the new court-house. Mr. Eyre was also making alterations at the green. All of this, alongside many private buildings then in progress, was adding considerably to the extent and appearance of the town.

Newcastle shoal as navigation hazard on Lough Corrib

near Newcastle · street · Galway

Newcastle is identified as one of the two serious navigation difficulties on Lough Corrib, along with Buachaly Shoal. These shoals could be deepened for a small sum to admit vessels of greater magnitude.

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water, and carrying generally from ten to twenty tons, with one square sail and four men, to Cong (which, though now but a small village, was anciently a place of considerable note, and the occasional residence of our provincial kmgs) . They seldom sail unless before the wind ; and though the lake has many islets and sunk rocks, the only serious difficulty in the navigation is at Buachaly Shoal, about four miles up the lake, and at Newcastle. These shoals could be deepened for a small sum and the whole made to admit vessels of much greater magnitude. This tine navigation, which extends about thirty miles, and into a sea-port town, seems to deserve much more attention than it has vet received. A good chart, with soundings and sailing directions, should be published, the shoals or rocks cleared or beaconed, and a communication opened with the sea. Two docks only would be required, which, exclusive of property of no great value, it was estimated would cost about £6,000. These, if of sufficient dimensions to admit vessels of burden, would give Galway all the advantages of wet docks,
K K

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 226

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Newcastle, you're passing one of the two serious navigation hazards on Lough Corrib. The other is Buachaly Shoal, about four miles up the lake. The lake stretches roughly thirty miles and carries boats of ten to twenty tons with a single square sail and four men, usually sailing only before the wind. Though there are many islets and sunk rocks, Newcastle and Buachaly Shoal are the only real difficulties. It was noted that these shoals could be deepened for a small sum, and the whole navigation made to admit vessels of much greater magnitude. A good chart with soundings and sailing directions was called for, the shoals cleared or beaconed, and communication opened with the sea. Two docks alone would be needed, estimated at about £6,000, which, if large enough to admit vessels of burden, would give Galway all the advantages of wet docks.

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

The stories, best first

Carrowbrowne and Castlemagarrett family connections

D'Arcy estate at Kiltolla settled on cousin

Galway bye-law: street cleaning and sanitation orders

Galway charter liberties confirmed

Galway population mostly Catholic by 1762

Galway properties of Blake, Skerret, Martyn families transferred to Protestants

James I grants abbey lands to Sir George Carew

Market tolls and customs schedule for Galway

Murrough na more O'Flaherty buried at Galway abbey

New rules for governing Galway established in 1672

Nicholas D'Arcy's estate in Partry, Mayo

Patrick Begg Ffrench's castle of Monivea, 1630

Piers Kirwan Fitzclement seized of Creggan and associated lands, 1618

Poor Clares monuments in Galway chapel

Walter Bourke of Turlagh elected freeman of Galway

Water courses through Galway mills ordered kept clean

Weekly court of record in the Tholsel of Galway

Galway port customs earmarked for walls and paving

Henry IV confirms Galway's charters and appoints customs receiver

1432 justices appointed for Athenry and Galway franchises

1813 Population Census of Aran Islands

Castle Ffrench near Ahascragh raised to peerage 1798

Galway custom-house built 1807

Galway house of Patrick Martyn with back-side transferred, 1657

Galway house with castle confiscated from Lynch to Browne, 1657

Queen Anne proclaimed in Galway; Mutton Island fortified

Stephen Kerovan translated from Kilmacduagh to Clonfert

Inquiry into merchants trading at Galway and Sligo ports

Sir William de Burgh constituted Deputy of Connaught over Galway revenues

Browne and Patrick's Aisles in Galway church

Cromwellian land settlement in Galway and Mayo

Depression of Galway customs revenue

Forfeited Lands in the Liberties of Galway, 1657

Galway as the metropolis of Connaught

Galway sustains four masons annually for town pavement

Island of Altanagh bestowed on nuns of St. Clara

Murage charter tolls for Galway

Semper family lands at Athenry

Thomas O'Casy appointed receiver of Galway and Connaught, 1385

Blake's Castle near the strand

Lynch's Castle in central Galway

O'Halloran castle near Barna acquired by Lynch family

Thomas French priest monument in Franciscan cemetery

Sir John Bourke of Derrymacklaghney admitted freeman of Galway

Admiralty of Galway Bay granted by royal charter

Ancient castles and mansions of Galway families

Athenry's decline after destruction

Chalybeate spring outside Galway's east gate

Cong as ancient seat of provincial kings

Decline of Galway's commerce and wine trade

Decline of the Corporation of Galway

Demolition of Galway's old fortifications and abbey-gate

Development of Dominick Street in Galway

Galway corporation's admiralty jurisdiction dispute

Galway's commercial decline under anti-Catholic enactments

Galway town and its natural advantages

Lombard-street named for Italian Lombard merchants

Lynch's Castle and court in Abbeygate-street

New bridge at Newtown-Smith over the river

Newcastle shoal as navigation hazard on Lough Corrib