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

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

1. Galway houses falling down, Irish inhabitants permitted to return

   Galway · city · Galway · 1679

   In 1679, the Duke of Ormond's agent reported to the Galway corporation that a great part of the houses of the town were falling down due to the removal of the market and Irish inhabitants. After much opposition, several ancient families who entered recognizance for their peaceable demeanour were permitted to return, and trade immediately began to revive.

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   For this ample extension of corporate privileges, the town was principally indebted to the earl of Essex, who evinced every inclination to promote its interest, and, if possible, to restore to its original state : but all exertions of this nature proved abortive, for, being deprived of its former respectable population, and possessed by a set of men their very opposite, both in principles and character, who were bred up to a military life, and mostly ignorant of any other pursuit, commerce entirely declined, and even the buildings, for want of inhabitants, were falling to the ground. This latter circumstance caused the agent of the duke of Ormond (his lordship having some time before obtained a grant of several forfeited houses in the town,) to represent, in the year 1679, to the corporation, "that by reason of the removal of the market and Irish inhabitants, a greate parte of the houses of the towne were falling down;" and he then inquired, "that such of the Irish of the said towne as should give security might be restored."40 This, after much opposition, was complied with only through necessity. Several of the ancient names and families having accordingly entered into recognizance for their peacable demeanour, were permitted to return, and the trade of the town immediately after began to revive. 40a This soon awakened the

   39 Enrolled 29 Cha. II. 2p.— Vide Appendix, No. VIII. for a copy of the charter carefully collated wiish the original.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 123

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, you are in a city that in 1679 was visibly crumbling. The Duke of Ormond's agent reported to the corporation that "by reason of the removal of the market and Irish inhabitants, a greate parte of the houses of the towne were falling down." The town had lost its former respectable population and was held by military men who knew little of commerce, so trade had entirely declined and buildings were collapsing for want of anyone to live in them. The agent asked whether such of the Irish as should give security might be restored. After much opposition, this was complied with only through necessity. Several of the ancient families entered into recognizance for their peaceable demeanour and were permitted to return. The trade of the town immediately began to revive. The Earl of Essex had earlier tried to restore Galway to its original state, but those efforts failed while the old population remained shut out and the houses kept falling.

2. Galway's walls and tower fortifications built

   Galway · city · Galway · 1270–1300

   After English settlers took possession of Galway, significant defensive works were undertaken, including walls towards the sea and a tower beyond the great gate. The tower was specifically designed to guard against incursions from the interior by way of Lough Corrib. These fortifications transformed Galway from a village-like settlement into a regularly fortified town.

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   Before the erection of these walls and works of defence, the town, though it was, even then, the principal mart and most distinguished place in Connaught, was little superior, either in extent or form, to a considerable modern village : but after these works and improvements were completed, it presented the appearance of a regularly fortified town; and, by thus insuring additional security and protection, in those turbulent times, to the lives and properties of the people, it continued gradually to increase. Several new settlers, from time to time, added to its wealth and trade, and considerably augmented the number of its inhabitants; but particularly about this period the families of Blake, Bodkin, Ffont, Joyes, Lynch. Martin and Slierrett, settled in the town, and principally laid the foundation of its subsequent prosperity. The walls erected towards the sea were intended to prevent any descent from the western parts of rVlunster and Connaught; and the tower, beyond the great gate, was erected as a defence against any incursions from the interior of the country, and particularly by Lough Corrib, which it seems to have been particularly designed to guard against. The building of the walls was continued at intervals during the succeeding century, at the termination of which the town was entirely inclosed.

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

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 46

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up through Galway now. Between 1270 and 1300, English settlers who had taken possession of the town built walls towards the sea and a tower beyond the great gate. Before these works, Galway was already the principal mart in Connaught but was little more than a considerable village in extent and form. The walls were meant to prevent any descent from the western parts of Munster and Connaught, while the tower guarded against incursions from the interior, particularly by way of Lough Corrib. Once completed, Galway took on the appearance of a regularly fortified town, and the added security in those turbulent times let it grow steadily. About this period the families of Blake, Bodkin, Ffont, Joyes, Lynch, Martin and Skerrett settled in the town and laid the foundation of its subsequent prosperity. Wall building continued at intervals through the following century, by the end of which the town was entirely enclosed. After these fortifications were erected, the foreign trade of Galway improved considerably.

3. Galway Town Gaol and Howard's visit

   Galway · city · Galway · 1578–1788

   From an early period Galway had a public prison; the original was a small apartment under the tholsel, later replaced by a prison near the Main Guard. The philanthropist Mr. Howard visited this prison in April 1788 and described it as having no court, no water, with 7 debtors and 12 felons, and a gaoler's salary of £20.

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   From a very early period the arm of justice was strengthened by the aid of a public prison in Galway. The charter of Elizabeth, in 1578, granted full power to the corporation to have for ever a gaol within the town, and a keeper of the same, 25 and to commit to and imprison therein prisoners for whatever cause or crime they should be taken, attached or arrested. The original prison was a small apartment under the tholsel; but vice keeping equal pace with the progress of population, a more spacious prison in process of time became necessary. Accordingly, a situation near the centre of the town, at a place afterwards called the main guard, was chosen for its site; and in its construction, like that of all other old prisons, more attention was paid to the security of the inmates than to their health or convenience. The celebrated philantrophist, Mr. Howard, visited this prison in April, 1788, and described it as follows: — "Galway city and county goal, in a close part of the city, has no court, no water. Gaoler's salary, £20. Debtors 7. Felons, etc., 12." — In this state it remained for many years after, until it became totally inadequate to answer the ends of public justice. In addition to its being ill-constructed, inconvenient, and the accommodations of the most wretched description, it

   25 By letters patent dated 16tli March, life. — Rot. Pat. 2 Jac. 1. — This appoint- 1603, Cormocke Mc Dermot and Henry rnent appears somewhat inconsistent with his son were appointed keepers of the the previous grant to the corporation, gaol of Galway during their lives, in re- contained in the charter of queen Elizaversion, aftetr the death of John Wiliams, beth. — Vide Appendix, Number III. who then held same for the term of his

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 243

   As the companion tells it

   As the road brings you through Galway, this is a town with a long history of keeping prisoners. Back in 1578, the charter of Elizabeth granted the corporation full power to have a gaol within the town, and a keeper of the same, and to commit to and imprison therein prisoners for whatever cause or crime they should be taken, attached or arrested. The original prison was a small apartment under the tholsel. But as the population grew, a more spacious prison became necessary. A situation near the centre of the town, at a place afterwards called the Main Guard, was chosen for its site. Like all old prisons, more attention was paid to the security of the inmates than to their health or convenience. The celebrated philanthropist Mr. Howard visited this prison in April 1788. He described it in his own words: Galway city and county goal, in a close part of the city, has no court, no water. Gaoler's salary, 20 pounds. Debtors 7. Felons, etc., 12. It remained in this state for many years after, until it became totally inadequate to answer the ends of public justice. It was ill-constructed, inconvenient, and the accommodations were of the most wretched description.

4. Ginckle marches to Athenry and views Galway Bay

   Athenry · town · Galway · 1691

   In July 1691, General Ginckle marched towards Athenry and encamped on the surrounding plains before advancing three miles nearer Galway to a rising ground from which he could see the shipping in the bay. He received intelligence from a Mr. Shaw, an escaped merchant of Galway, about the garrison's strength and stores.

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   hourly expected from Iar-Connaught with the troops under his command. 13 Though thus circumstanced, it was unanimously resolved to defend the town. General Ginckle, the English commander, having judged it necessary to reduce Galway before he should proceed to Limerick, after a few days delay to refresh his troops, marched on the 17th July towards Athenry. and encamped on the surrounding plains. On the same day he advanced, with a party, three miles nearer Galway, to a rising ground, from whence he could see the shipping in the bay. On his return to the camp he found a Mr. Shaw, a merchant of the town, (who, with a few other Protestants, had that morning escaped,) from whom he received a full account how matters stood within. This information was the more astisf actory , as it differed entirely from what he had previously received from others, that the garrison consisted of five thousand men, and those well armed; that the stores were considerable, and the town almost impregnable; that Sarsfield, with the whole of the Irish horse, was upon his march with a resolution to raise the seige; and that Ballderg's party was above six thousand strong : all which led him to apprehend that he would have more trouble with Galway than he expected, and that the seige would be protracted to the ensuing winter; a circumstance which, above all others, he was most anxious to avoid.

   At this juncture, Denis Daly, of Crraownekelly, in the county of Galway, esq. second justice of the court of common pleas, and one of the privy counsellors of James II. 14 despatched a messenger to general Ginckle, de-

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 128

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, in July 1691, General Ginckle marched towards Athenry and encamped on the surrounding plains. On the 17th of July he advanced with a party three miles nearer Galway to a rising ground, from which he could see the shipping in the bay. On his return to camp he found a Mr. Shaw, a merchant of Galway, who had escaped that morning along with a few other Protestants. From Shaw he received a full account of how matters stood within Galway. The information differed entirely from what Ginckle had previously been told. Shaw reported that the garrison consisted of 5000 men, well armed, that the stores were considerable, and that the town was almost impregnable. He also said that Sarsfield, with the whole of the Irish horse, was on his march with a resolution to raise the siege, and that Ballderg's party was above 6000 strong. All of this led Ginckle to fear he would have more trouble with Galway than expected, and that the siege might be protracted into the winter, a circumstance he was most anxious to avoid.

5. Governor closes Galway town gates early, sparking conflict

   Galway · city · Galway

   The governor of Galway closed the town gates at four in the afternoon, leaving only wickets open, which the townspeople resented as an unprecedented inconvenience. The mayor, sheriffs, and corporation members petitioned him to restore the ancient custom of keeping gates open until eight and wickets until ten, but he refused, citing security concerns and accusing the mayor and sheriffs of receiving presents from Catholics.

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   in the town, often involved him in unpleasant contentions with the inhabitants. Amongst other alterations which he made after his appointment, that of closing the gates at the early hour of four in the afternoon, leaving the wickets only open until evening, was considered particularly annoying. This practice the town's-people resented as a general inconvenience, never resorted to except in cases of public apprehension or danger, and that, when no such had existed, so strict a regulation became totally unnecessary. Accordingly the mayor, sheriffs, deputy recorder and other members of the corporation, waited on the governor, with a memorial, signed by themselves and several others of the Protestant and many of the Catholic inhabitants, requesting that he would permit the gates to remain open until eight o'clock in the evening, and the wickets until ten, according to ancient custom. Upon his declining to comply with the requisition, a memorial was presented to the lord lieutenant, in his answer to which, the governor adduced many reasons to justify his refusal. He assured his excellency, that this complaint against him had its rise, not from any real inconvenience or detriment, but from party prejudice; and stated that he was possessed of proofs to shew that the mayor and sheriffs had received presents from the Papists, to "nose'' and insult him, and to represent him as distressing the inhabitants, and putting them under difficulties injurious to the trade and commerce of the town.1 As to closing the gates at an early hour, the greatest possible necessity existed for such a measure. The town lay at an extreme point; there was no travelling by land beyond it, and it was not a thoroughfare. The entrance for all land traffic was at the east gate; and beyond the west gate lay lar-Connaught, a country inaccessible to wheel carriages, and inhabited by Papists, who supplied the markets with such necessaries only as were brought in on back-loads : the wickets, therefore.

   being six friaries and nunneries, two tants, and the children of such, had been

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 146

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, the town gates that once stood here were the subject of a bitter dispute. The governor of the town ordered the gates shut at four in the afternoon, leaving only the wickets open, a restriction the townspeople found galling. They told him it was unprecedented except in times of danger, and that no such danger existed. The mayor, the sheriffs, and members of the corporation, along with Protestant and Catholic inhabitants, signed a memorial asking him to restore the ancient custom of keeping the gates open until eight and the wickets until ten. He refused. The matter went to the lord lieutenant, and the governor defended himself by saying the complaint came from party prejudice, not real inconvenience. He claimed to have proof that the mayor and sheriffs had received presents from Catholics, in the source's words, to "nose" and insult him. As for the early closing, he said there was the greatest necessity. Galway lay at an extreme point. There was no travelling by land beyond it, and it was no thoroughfare. All land traffic entered at the east gate. Beyond the west gate lay Iar Connacht, a country he called inaccessible to wheel carriages, inhabited by Papists who supplied the markets only with what they could carry in on their backs.

6. Lord Deputy Grey confiscates church ornaments at Galway

   Galway · city · Galway · 1538–1540

   Lord Deputy Grey arrived in Galway and seized and confiscated the ornaments of the church. Sir William Brabazon's account of confiscated jewels, ornaments, crosses and images recorded only forty-five shillings as the price of articles seized at Galway, suggesting either a trifling confiscation or considerable embezzlement.

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   made some very considerable additions to it, and, amongst others, erected the spacious wing extending from the north pinnacle to the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. Soon after this, the first symptom of reformation appeared in the town. Lord deputy Grey having arrived, he seized and confiscated the ornaments of the church; and Sir William Brabazon, vicetreasurer of Ireland, in his " Account of Jewels, Ornaments, Crosses and Images Confiscated,'" returns " forty-five shillings, being the price of such articles seized at Galway, received from Leonard, late deputy of the King." This inadequate return would induce a supposition either that the confiscation in Galway was trifling, or that the embezzlement, with which the illfated deputy was afterwards charged, was considerable. However that may be, no farther inconvenience was sustained by the town on account of religion during the remainder of the reign of Henry VIII. In 1542, Christopher Bodkin, archbishop of Tuam.U at the request of the mayor and burgesses, in a provincial synod then held in the town, confirmed to the college all the benefices which it had justly and quietly possessed, and all other benefices which it theretofore held and which were afterwards occupied by any others, wi'ch all their rights and appurtenances : and here the force of native partiality in this archbishop, and his predecessor, William Joyes (who were both natives of the town), is remarkable, they being the only prelates who had confirmed the privileges of the collegiate church from the time of its original institution. 12

   The alarming changes daily making in the affairs of religion, and the indiscriminate seizure of all ecclesiastical properly during the latter years of Henry VIII. had, for some time, rendered the clergy and people of Galway apprehensive for the safety of their collegiate church and property, and more particularly when they saw the three monastic foundations of the town dissolved, and their possessions seized into the king's hands. After long deliberation, therefore, they determined to yield to the pressure of the times,

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 196

   As the companion tells it

   Galway saw its first symptom of reformation around 1538. Lord Deputy Grey arrived in the town and seized and confiscated the ornaments of the church. Sir William Brabazon, vice-treasurer of Ireland, in his account of jewels, ornaments, crosses and images confiscated, returned only forty-five shillings, being, in his words, the price of such articles seized at Galway, received from Leonard, late deputy of the King. This inadequate return would suggest either that the confiscation in Galway was trifling, or that the embezzlement with which the ill-fated deputy was afterwards charged was considerable. No further inconvenience was sustained by the town on account of religion during the remainder of Henry VIII's reign. In 1542, Christopher Bodkin, archbishop of Tuam, at the request of the mayor and burgesses, in a provincial synod held in the town, confirmed to the college all the benefices which it had justly and quietly possessed, and all other benefices which it theretofore held and which were afterwards occupied by others, with all their rights and appurtenances. The native partiality of this archbishop and his predecessor, William Joyes, both natives of the town, is remarkable, they being the only prelates who had confirmed the privileges of the collegiate church from the time of its original institution. The alarming changes in religion and the indiscriminate seizure of all ecclesiastical property during the latter years of Henry VIII had rendered the clergy and people of Galway apprehensive for the safety of their collegiate church and property, particularly when they saw the three monastic foundations of the town dissolved and their possessions seized into the king's hands. After long deliberation, they determined to yield to the pressure of the times.

7. Massacre at Renville village near Galway

   Rinville East · townland · Galway · 1642

   Soldiers from the fort pillaged the village of Renville near Galway and murdered six people, including Geoffrey Fitz-Thibot, aged about 70, and his elderly wife who was in a burning fever, both killed in their beds. Lord Clanmorris seized and hanged soldiers in reprisal.

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   4 Lord Clanmorris, unable to obtain redress for this outrage, revolted from lord Cianricairde, and withdrew his troops from his majesty's service. He also vowed revenge ajgaimst the fort ; and having soon after surprised a party of its men pillaging the village of Renville, near Galway, (where they murdered six people ; among whom Geoftry Fitz-Thibot, aged

   about 70 years, and his wife, who was also old, and in a burning fever, were killed in their beds,) he seized two or three of the soldiers, and had them immediately hanged, as a reparation for the death of his men. Upon this his lordship rushed into those ruinous measures which afterwards ended so fatally.- — Carte.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 96

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Rinville East, in 1642, soldiers from the fort pillaged Renville village and murdered six people. Geoffrey Fitz-Thibot, aged about 70, and his wife, in a burning fever, were killed in their beds. Lord Clanmorris seized two or three soldiers and immediately hanged them as reparation. His lordship rushed into ruinous measures which afterwards ended so fatally.

8. Mendicant families infest Galway streets

   Galway · city · Galway

   Galway was plagued by native beggars and seasonal crowds of mendicants, with entire families driven from their homes by want or disease pouring into the town. A workhouse or general asylum was proposed to address the recurring evil of poverty-driven mendicancy.

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   Independently of the native or resident beggars, with whom the town is always plentifully stocked, crowds of miserable medicants infest the streets at ceitain periods of the year, but particularly during the summer and baihin(; seasons. Entire families, driven from their houses by want or disease, pour in from all quarters of the country; and the extreme wretchedness which these poor creatures generally exhibit is truly afflicting. Several measures have been, from time to time, proposed to remedy this evil; and, amongst others, a workhouse or general asylum has been recommended. That an establishment of this kind would have the effect of clearing the streets for a time is very certain, but is not equally so that it would prevent a recurrence of the evil; for as long as the principal cause, viz., the poverty of the peasantry continues, so long numbers of mendicant poor many reasonably be expected, 1

   VII.— PUBLIC MARKETS.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 247

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, the streets here were once, and for long, thick with beggars. Beyond the native poor always resident in the town, crowds of miserable mendicants infested the streets at certain seasons, especially summer, whole families driven from their homes by want or disease pouring in from all quarters of the country. The wretchedness they exhibited was, in the words of one writer, truly afflicting. A workhouse or general asylum was proposed to clear the streets, but it was uncertain whether it would prevent the evil recurring, since so long as the poverty of the peasantry continued, numbers of mendicant poor might reasonably be expected.

9. Missioner Peter French returned to Galway and died 1693

   Galway · city · Galway · 1693

   The Reverend Peter French, a native of Galway who served for over thirty years as a celebrated missioner among the Indians of Mexico, returned to his native town and died there in 1693. He had compiled a catechism in the Mexican tongue and converted multitudes from idolatry.

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   40 In his time the reverend Peter French, a native of Galway, who, for upwards of thirty years, was a celebrated missioner among the Indians of Mexico, returned, to his native town. This apostolical character compiled a catechism or exposition of the Christian faith in the Mexican tongue, and converted multitudes from idolatry. He died in Galway in 1693.

   1 Of this fund the warden received about £40 and each of, the vicars about £25 annually, until the French Revolution, when it was confiscated, with all the other church property in that country.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 208

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, you're in the town where Peter French came home to die in 1693. He was a native of this place who spent upwards of thirty years as a missioner among the Indians of Mexico. He compiled a catechism in the Mexican tongue and, as the old record calls him, "this apostolical character" converted multitudes from idolatry. After all those years abroad, he returned to his native town and died there.

10. Order to banish Catholic inhabitants from Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1655

    On 23 July 1655, the Lord Deputy and Council ordered all Catholic recusants claiming houses or real estate in or near Galway to remove themselves and their families before 1 November, with promised compensation. If they refused, officers and soldiers were required to remove them. Colonels Lawrence and Richardson were deputed to value the houses.

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    This measure was only the prelude to others more serious : it was next determined to banish all the native inhabitants out of the town, and to supply their place with an English colony. An order was accordingly made by the lord deputy and council, on the 23d of July, 1655, that all persons who claimed or had any right to any houses or other real estate, within or contiguous to the town, being popish recusants, should remove themselves and their families thereout before the ! st of November then ensuing, being paid, pursuant to the articles, their full value; and, in case they should refuse or neglect to do so, the officers and soldiers were required to remove them. 25 Before the time limited for compliance with this ordinance had expired, another was issued more immediate in its operation; for " the state taking into consideration the extraordinary strength of the

    _ 24 This individual, according to tradition, was the only native of Galway who changed his principles and religion, and joined the common enemy of both ; id consequence of which, all communication was denied him by his friends during his life, and he is said to have died of a broken heart, occasioned by remorse and shame for his apostacy.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 111

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are moving through a city that in 1655 was emptied of its own people. On 23 July that year, the Lord Deputy and Council ordered all Catholic recusants who claimed houses or real estate in or near the town to remove themselves and their families before 1 November, with the promise of full compensation. If they refused, officers and soldiers were required to remove them. The measure was meant to clear the way for an English colony to take their place. The source notes that the plan was only the prelude to others more serious. One tradition recorded in the book concerns a single native of Galway who changed his principles and joined the enemy. His friends denied him all communication, and he is said to have died of a broken heart, from remorse and shame for his apostasy.

11. Parliamentary camp between Lough-a-thalia and Suckeen

    Lough Atalia · electoral division · Galway · 1651

    On 12 August 1651 the parliamentary forces pitched their camp between Lough-a-thalia and Suckeen, within a few hundred yards of Galway's walls, tightening the blockade around the town.

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

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 105

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Lough Atalia, you are near where the parliamentary army made its closing grip on Galway. On 12 August 1651 their forces pitched camp between Lough-a-thalia and Suckeen, within a few hundred yards of the town walls. The Irish commander Preston had thrown himself into Galway with a few troops and been entrusted with the chief command as governor. Sir Charles Coote and commissary-general Reynolds had already invested the town and taken the castles of Tirellan, Oranmore, and Clare-Galway, reducing Galway to blockade. After Limerick surrendered on 27 October, Ireton held a council of war on whether to march his army to Galway. Some officers argued their men were worn by sickness and hard service and winter was near, so it was resolved instead to summon the town to accept the conditions originally tendered to Limerick. On the morning of 9 November, dispatches arrived from the lord deputy for the governor, enclosing letters to the mayor and inhabitants. He told Preston that if he freely shared the proposals and was, "waving the frivolous impertinencies of a soldier's honor or humor rather," inclined to capitulate, he might share in the benefit of those conditions. But if he suppressed them, his head would pay for the mischief that followed.

12. Petition to parliament against Galway corporation

    Galway · city · Galway · 1717

    On September 13, 1717, Protestant aldermen and freemen petitioned parliament against John Staunton and Mayor Robert Coates, alleging they illegally supported Catholic interests in Galway and harbored popish priests contrary to law.

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    aldermen, common council men, freemen, commonalty and Protestant inhabitants," on the 13th September, 1717, petitioned parliament, complaining of the illegal and oppressive practices and arbitrary proceedings of John Staunton, esq. one of the representatives of the town, and of Robert Coates, the then mayor, stating that, for several years past, a design had been formed and carried on by the magistrates and governing part of the corporation, to support a popish and discourage the Protestant interest within the town; in pursuance of which design, nunneries and other places of refuge and shelter for regular and secular priests, friars, and other offenders against the several laws in force in the kingdom, had been suffered, connived at, and encouraged within the town and county of the town of Galway, contrary to law : that, in further pursuance of the said evil design great numbers of Papists, by the notorious neglect of the magistrates,, had been and were then permitted to inhabit in the town, contrary to law; whereby, and by reason of several other discouragements to the Protestant interest there, and of such Protestants as then did or would reside therein, a sufficient number of Protestant freeholders could not be found in the county of the town of Galway, to try offenders against the several acts then in force against Papists, whereby great numbers of popish priests, friars, and dignitaries of the church of Rome, frequently landed from foreign part, contrary to law, within the town and liberties, and, through the connivance of the justices of the peace, were sheltered from justice, and found protection therein, and from thence found opportunities to disperse themselves into all other parts of the kingdom : that, by the charters of Galway, the mayor and recorder for the time being, and, in their absence, their respective deputies, were the only justices of the peace within the county of the town, who had ben principal instruments in obstructing the execution of the laws against popery, and had confederated with many persons popishly affected within the town, and with divers others enemies to the Protestant interest who were foreignrs to the town rendered, to form a common council to carry on their evil designs, by illegally excluding certain common council men (who had been duly elected, admitted and sworn) from acting or voting therein; and, having thereby procured to themselves a majority, had, for several years past, arbitrarily and illegally admitted into the same divers persons disaffected to his majesty and the Protestant interest; by means whereof, and other evil practices, the security of the town and garrison was greatly endangered, the residence of Protestants therein discouraged, prevented, and rendered unsafe, justice obstructed, many criminals protected contrary to law, and great grievances and mischiefs occasioned to the Protestant interest thereof; for all which they prayed relief. The house having ordered that the matter of this petition should be heard at their bar, council accordingly appeared, and witnesses were examined on the part of the accused; but it was unanimously resolved, "that the petitioners have fully proved the allegations of the petition." Robert Shaw, esq. the other member for the town, then brought in a bill "for the better regulating the town of Galway and for die strengthening fehe Protestant interest therein," which passed

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 137

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Galway now. In 1717, this town was the scene of a bitter struggle laid before parliament. On the 13th of September that year, the aldermen, common council men, freemen and Protestant inhabitants petitioned, complaining of the illegal and oppressive practices of John Staunton, one of the representatives of the town, and Robert Coates, the then mayor. They stated that for several years past, the magistrates and governing part of the corporation had formed a design to support a popish and discourage the Protestant interest within the town. They said nunneries and other places of refuge for regular and secular priests, friars, and other offenders against the laws in force had been suffered, connived at, and encouraged within the town and county of the town of Galway, contrary to law. Great numbers of Papists, through the notorious neglect of the magistrates, had been permitted to inhabit the town contrary to law, so that a sufficient number of Protestant freeholders could not be found to try offenders against the acts then in force against Papists. Popish priests, friars, and dignitaries of the church of Rome frequently landed from foreign parts within the town and liberties, and through the connivance of the justices of the peace were sheltered from justice. The petitioners said the mayor and recorder, the only justices of the peace within the county of the town, had been principal instruments in obstructing the laws against popery and had illegally excluded certain duly elected common council men from acting or voting. Parliament heard the matter at its bar, examined witnesses, and unanimously resolved that the petitioners had fully proved their allegations. Robert Shaw, the other member for the town, then brought in a bill for the better regulating of Galway and for strengthening the Protestant interest therein, which passed.

13. Red Earl De Burgo's old castle in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway

    The old castle of Richard De Burgo, the Red Earl, was one of the fourteen remarkable edifices of Galway. It represented the Anglo-Norman lordship over the city.

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    Fourteen remarkable edifices, castles or mansion houses, of the nobility, gentry and citizens of Galway. Q. The old castle of the most illustrious Lord, Richard De Burgo, the red Earl.

    R. Athv's castle, in the north part of the city.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this was one of its fourteen remarkable edifices. The old castle of Richard De Burgo, the Red Earl, stood in the north part of the city, marking the Anglo-Norman lordship over Galway.

14. Richard Martin's bequests to St. Francis' Abbey and St. Nicholas' Church

    Galway · city · Galway · 1642

    Richard Martin Fitz-Oliver, mayor of Galway in 1642 and a resident of Dungorie, Co. Galway, bequeathed £800 to build a chapel in St. Francis' Abbey and another in St. Nicholas' Church. He also left legacies to all convents and abbeys in Connacht.

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    6. This mayor (who resided at Dungorie, in the county of Galway) appears to have been a popular and favourite character in those times. He was chosen alderman and mayor of this town in his absence, without his knowledge, and at first refused the offices ; but afterwards accepted them, "at the instance of the corporation and of many honourable persons, to the great content of all the inhabitants of this town."— Lib. A. He bequeathed £800 to build a chapel in St. Francis' abbey, and another in St. Nicholas' church ; and left legacies to all the convents and abbies in Connaught. — lb.

    222

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 176

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are near places shaped by Richard Martin Fitz-Oliver, mayor of the town in 1642. He lived at Dungorie in the county of Galway, and the townsfolk chose him alderman and mayor while he was away, without his knowledge. He refused at first, then accepted, as the book says, "at the instance of the corporation and of many honourable persons, to the great content of all the inhabitants of this town." He bequeathed 800 pounds to build a chapel in St. Francis' Abbey and another in St. Nicholas' Church, and he left legacies to all the convents and abbeys in Connacht.

15. Roderic O'Conor's failed siege of Dublin

    Dublin · city · Dublin

    After Henry II's departure from Ireland, Roderic O'Conor, king of Connaught and monarch of Ireland, crossed the Shannon with a considerable army and marched on Dublin. Due to dissensions among his troops, he was defeated and forced to retreat and sue for peace.

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    government of Ireland.1^. Henry II. soon afterwards arrived with an army of 4000 men, and having received the submission of some of the petty princes of Leinster and Munster, and of several of the bishops and clergy, he returned to England- Immediately on his departure, the princes and chieftains who had so recently submitted to his authority, as if on reflection they felt ashamed of the pusillanimity with which they bowed their necks to the yoke of servitude, revolted and commenced hostilities. Roderic O'Conor, king of Connaught and monarch of Ireland, who tamely permitted the encroachments of the English, now, when it was too late, roused from his lethargy, crossed the Shannon with a considerable army, and proceeded towards Dublin, which he invested : but in consequence of the unhappy dissensions which prevailed among his troops, and which, amongst the Irish, were at all times the cause of their ruin, he was defeated, obliged to retreat, and sue for peace. He accordingly dispatched deputies to England, who met the king at Windsor, and there a peace was most solemnly concluded between the two monarchs. Roderic consented to do homage, and pay tribute to the king of England; whereupon he was to hold his kingdom of Connaught, with the title of king, under him. Rex sub eo, and that in as ample a manner as he had done before the coming of the English. Our historians are unanimous in declaring that there never was any treaty more scrupulously adhered to than this by Roderic, while few were ever more flagrantly violated than it afterwards was, by Henry.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 44

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Dublin, this is the city Roderic O'Conor once tried and failed to take. Henry the Second had come to Ireland with an army of 4000 men. He received the submission of some of the petty princes of Leinster and Munster, and of several of the bishops and clergy, and then he returned to England. The moment he left, the princes and chieftains who had submitted to him revolted and started hostilities. Roderic O'Conor, king of Connaught and monarch of Ireland, had tamely permitted the encroachments of the English. Now, when it was too late, he roused himself. He crossed the Shannon with a considerable army and marched on Dublin, which he invested. But dissensions broke out among his troops, and among the Irish such dissensions were at all times the cause of their ruin. He was defeated, forced to retreat, and forced to sue for peace. He sent deputies to England, who met the king at Windsor, and there a peace was solemnly concluded between the two monarchs. Roderic agreed to do homage and pay tribute to the king of England, and in return he was to hold his kingdom of Connaught with the title of king, under him, in as ample a manner as he had done before the coming of the English. Our historians say there was never a treaty more scrupulously adhered to than this one by Roderic, while few were ever more flagrantly violated than it was afterwards by Henry.

16. St. Augustine's Fort, Galway: governor appointed

    Galway · city · Galway · 1603–1636

    Sir Thomas Rotheram was appointed governor of St. Augustine's fort near Galway on 28th May 1603 by royal patent, tasked with punishing evil subjects and defending loyal ones. He governed the fort for thirty-three years and was elected mayor of Galway in 1612, the only non-native to hold that office for over 170 years.

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    The fort being at length finished, Sir Thomas Rotheram, knight, was appointed governor, on 28th May, 1603. His patent recites that the king, as well for the punishment and reformation of his evil subjects, as for the defence of his good and loyal ones residing in the town of Galway, and St. Augustine's fort, near adjoining, thought it very necessary that some meet person should be appointed commander of the said fort, and of all such companies thereof, horse and foot, as were then, or should thereafter be sent to reside there; and, having conceived a good opinion of his valor, wisdom, and provident circumspection for the managing of causes of like effect and moment, appointed him commander of said foot and forces, with the rule and government of all persons residing in or repairing to the bounds and circuits of his said command, as well within liberties as without, of the town and harbour of Gal way. 22 Sir Thomas appears to have merited the high encomium contained in his patent : he governed the fort with unimpeachable conduct for a period of thirty-three years, 23 and was elected mayor of Galway in 1612, being the only instance in which that office was filled by any except a native of the town, or of its ancient names and families, for upwards of one hundred and seventy years.

    Immediately after the accession of James, the corporation petitioned for a confirmation and extension of their privileges, which the king answered by letter under his own hand, to the earl of Devonshire, lord lieutenant, dated 20th December, 1603, stating that, " Although for some respects we thinke not fitt to enlarge any further liberties to them, than formerly they have had, yet wee are pleased that they shall have a confirmacon and renuinge of such privileges and liberties as by any former charters they doe hold. "24 — This answer not being so favourable as was expected, they declined for the present suing out the charter, expecting a more seasonable opportunity;25 which accordingly was supposed to have offered in 1608,

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 85

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the story of St. Augustine's Fort sits near the town. The fort was at length finished, and on the 28th of May 1603, Sir Thomas Rotheram was appointed governor by royal patent. The patent recited that the king, as well for the punishment and reformation of his evil subjects as for the defence of his good and loyal ones residing in the town of Galway and St. Augustine's fort near adjoining, thought it very necessary that some meet person should be appointed commander. The king had conceived a good opinion of Rotheram's valour, wisdom, and provident circumspection, and appointed him commander of said foot and forces, with the rule and government of all persons residing in or repairing to the bounds and circuits of his command, as well within liberties as without, of the town and harbour of Galway. He governed the fort with unimpeachable conduct for 33 years, and was elected mayor of Galway in 1612, the only instance in which that office was filled by any except a native of the town or of its ancient names and families for upwards of 170 years. Immediately after the accession of James, the corporation petitioned for a confirmation and extension of their privileges. The king answered by letter under his own hand to the earl of Devonshire, lord lieutenant, dated 20th December 1603, stating that although for some respects he thought not fit to enlarge any further liberties to them than formerly they had had, yet he was pleased they should have a confirmation and renewing of such privileges as by any former charters they did hold. This answer not being so favourable as expected, they declined suing out the charter, expecting a more seasonable opportunity, which was supposed to have offered in 1608.

17. Submission and arrest of Mac-an-Earlas at St. Nicholas

    Galway · city · Galway · 1577

    The Mac-an-Earlas submitted to the Lord Deputy while he attended divine service at the church of St. Nicholas in Galway. Despite their supplication and promises, they were immediately arrested and sent as prisoners to Dublin.

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    The remainder of the country was still destroyed by the ravages of the Mac-an-Earlas, who obstinately stood out, and against whom infinite complaints were made to the lord deputy. They, either dreading his power, or wishing to dissemble for the present, as their subsequent conduct proved, voluntarily came to Galway, and, while the lord dejputy was attending divine service in the church of St. Nicholas, on the sabbath day, they entered before him, and, kneeling down in a suppliant posture, confessed their faults, submitted, and humbly craved pardon, promising amendment for the future, and that they would never more revolt from their allegiance to her majesty, or disobey her laws. They were, however, immediately put under arrest, and sent close prisoners to Dublin; but by the advice of the privy council, after receiving many sharp reprehensions, and some trifling punishment, they were soon after liberated, and the lord deputy having remained three weeks in Galway, departed for Dublin, where he arrived on the 13th of April, 1577.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 77

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in the city where, in 1577, the Mac-an-Earlas came to make their submission. They had been ravaging the country and stood out stubbornly against the crown, but they came voluntarily to Galway while the Lord Deputy was attending divine service in the church of St. Nicholas on the sabbath day. They entered before him, knelt down in a suppliant posture, confessed their faults, and humbly craved pardon, promising amendment and that they would never more revolt from their allegiance to her majesty or disobey her laws. Despite all this, they were immediately put under arrest and sent as close prisoners to Dublin. After receiving many sharp reprehensions and some trifling punishment, the privy council advised that they be liberated, which they soon were. The Lord Deputy remained three weeks in Galway, then departed for Dublin, where he arrived on the 13th of April 1577.

18. Surrender of St. Augustine's fort, Galway, 1643

    Galway · city · Galway · 1643

    Captain Willoughby, denied satisfactory terms by Lord Clanricarde, surrendered St. Augustine's fort at Galway to the Confederate forces under Lieutenant-general John Burke on 20 June 1643. The articles allowed the garrison to depart with arms, colours flying, and granted liberty to friends in Oranmore and Kilcolgan to accompany them.

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    Rear-admiral Brooke, in the ship Providence, arrived in the bay in the beginning of June, with provisions and arms for the fort; but the batteries on the points of Rinmore and Rintinane hindered him from approaching. He endeavoured in the night to throw in supplies, but his long boats, being met by those of the town, were forces to retire. Captain Willoughby, being thus disappointed of succour, desired permission from colonel Burlce to deliver the fort to lord Clanricarde; but this, in the moment of success, he refused to agree to, on any other terms than that his lordship should take the oath of union or association, and not dispose of the place without the consent of the several persons under-named. 6 These terms the earl, with that consistency and loyalty which always marked his proceedings and character, totally rejected. Willoughby was then forced to treat for a surrender to the confederates. Articles having been accordingly agreed upon and signed,? he surrendered that important fortress on the 20th of

    6 The titular arch bishop of Tuam. lieutenant-general lord Mayo, colonel Bermingham, colonel Burke, lieutenantcolonel O'Flaherty, serjeant-major O'Shaughnessy, serjeant-major Burke, Richard Burke Fitz-John, Thomas Burke of Anbally, John Bermingham, Hubert Burke, captain Teige Kelly of Aughrim, captain Teige Kelly of Gallagh, captain Teige Kelly Fitz-William, captain Murrogh na-mart O'Flaherty, captain Anthony Brabazon captain TJlick Oarragh Burke, captain Ulick Burke of Castlehacket, captain Jonack M'Thomas, captain Edmond O'Flaherty, captain John Madden, captain John Browne, captain John Garvy, captain William Burke Fitz-John, captain William Burke of Cloghan, captain Walter Fitz-Morris, and captain Richard Betagh. — Clanricarde' s Memoirs.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 98

    As the companion tells it

    In June 1643, Galway was the scene of a siege at St. Augustine's fort. Rear-admiral Brooke arrived in the bay aboard the ship Providence with provisions and arms for the fort, but batteries on the points of Rinmore and Rintinane kept him from approaching. He tried at night to throw in supplies, but his long boats, met by those of the town, were forced to retire. Captain Willoughby, disappointed of succour, asked Colonel Burke for permission to deliver the fort to Lord Clanricarde. Clanricarde refused, in his moment of success, on any terms but that the earl should take the oath of union or association and not dispose of the place without the consent of a long list of named persons, among them the titular archbishop of Tuam, lieutenant-general Lord Mayo, Colonel Bermingham, Colonel Burke, Lieutenant-colonel O'Flaherty, Serjeant-major O'Shaughnessy, Serjeant-major Burke, Richard Burke Fitz-John, Thomas Burke of Anbally, and a number of captains including Teige Kelly of Aughrim, Murrogh na-mart O'Flaherty, and Anthony Brabazon. The earl rejected these terms entirely, with what the record calls the consistency and loyalty that always marked his character. Willoughby was then forced to treat for a surrender to the confederates. Articles were agreed and signed, and on the 20th of June 1643 he surrendered the fortress to Lieutenant-general John Burke. The articles allowed the garrison to depart with arms and colours flying, and granted liberty to friends in Oranmore and Kilcolgan to accompany them.

19. Volunteers of Galway first in Ireland to resolve against English goods

    Galway · city · Galway · 1778

    In 1778, the flame of patriotism reached Galway, and the volunteers of Galway formed a military association noted for respectability of rank and purity of intention. Galway was the first town in Ireland to enter into resolutions against the importation or consumption of English goods until national grievances were redressed.

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    During the continuance of these disputes, the improvement of the town was forgotten; the walls, gates and fortifications, which were left without repair, presented a most ruinous appearance, and trade was entirely neglected. Though thus circumstanced, the inKabitants had, however, the solitary consolation of being no longer doomed to penal inflictions for their religious tenets. In the year 1778, the first great legislative interference took place in their favour. 12 The flame of patriotism, which soon after spread over the kingdom, shone round this district with peculiar brightness. All that was great, good and respectable of its community, ranged themselves in the lists of the patriots, and the volunteers of Galway presented a military association, which, for respectability of rank, extent of property, or purity of intention, has seldom been equalled. The town soon became conspicuous in the national struggle for independence, and was the first in Ireland that entered into resolutions against the importation or consumption of English goods until the grievances of the nation should be redressed, 13

    Eyre proposed Nathaniel Cook; Ignatius Blake., of Ardfry, proposed Denis Daly; fifty-one voted for the latter and sixtyfour for the former t whereupon he was declared duly elected, "because Mr. Daly was not an inhabitant of Galway, and did not spend seven days in the whole within that town, since 1st August, 1770;" but having, notwithstanding, been approA^ed of as above, it was resolved, by the late mayor and his friends, that the other " should hold over until another were properly appointed, and that he should be idemnified for so doing." — Lib. I. — They persisted in this determination for some years afterwards, but were finally obliged to yield.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 155

    As the companion tells it

    Galway, in 1778, became conspicuous in the national struggle for independence. The town had been neglected during earlier disputes, its walls, gates and fortifications left without repair, trade entirely neglected. But the inhabitants had the consolation of no longer facing penal inflictions for their religious tenets, and the first great legislative interference took place in their favour that year. The flame of patriotism soon spread over the kingdom, and it shone round this district with peculiar brightness. All that was great, good and respectable in the community ranged themselves in the lists of the patriots. The volunteers presented a military association which, for respectability of rank, extent of property, or purity of intention, has seldom been equalled. The town was the first in Ireland to enter into resolutions against the importation or consumption of English goods until the grievances of the nation should be redressed. An election dispute also arose. Eyre proposed Nathaniel Cook. Ignatius Blake of Ardfry proposed Denis Daly. Fifty-one voted for Daly and sixty-four for Cook, whereupon Cook was declared duly elected, because Daly was not an inhabitant of the town and had not spent seven days in the whole within that town since 1 August 1770. Despite this, the late mayor and his friends resolved that Cook should hold over until another was properly appointed and indemnified for so doing. They persisted in this determination for some years afterwards, but were finally obliged to yield.

20. Warden Lynch excommunicates Galway officials over military articles

    Galway · city · Galway · 1642

    On 8 May 1642, four military articles were enacted in the town hall (courthouse) of Galway, including the securing of ammunition and the potential demolition of works and bulwarks. Walter Lynch, warden of Galway, along with other clergy, judged the articles to be against the Catholic faith and excommunicated those who voted for them unless they rescinded the articles within three days.

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    We, therefor, Walter Lynch priest, doctor, of divinitie and of the lawes, prothonotarie apostolick, deane of Tuame, and warden of Gallway, fulfilling our dutie to God and to our flock, to avoid all scandels__ and dangers that have or may ensue hereafter, of or from such acts and articles, voted as formerly, in the name of Jesus Christ, and by vertue of the authoritie wee have from him, and from the pastors of the Catholick Roman church, doe, by this our present sentence, excommunicate and anathematize, majori excommunicatione, ipso facto, nulla alia, expectata sententia, aut declaratione sententise, all such persons as vo'ted for the said articles, if, at or before the expiration of three dayes next ensueing the date hereof, they will not vote to the contrarie in the said toulshill-house, and thereby rase, abolish and recall the, said articles or acts made against all honestje, prudence and conscience. Wee likewise pray, authorise and require you all, the fathers, seculors and regulars in this town, to publish and intimate to your auditors, in your several chappies, this our sentence and decree, and to see and procure it to be observed and obeyed ns far forth as you may. Dated this nynth of May, 1642, in our present place of habitation. — Orig. MS.

    Walter Lynch, warden.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 94

    As the companion tells it

    Galway, in 1642, was a town divided against itself. On the 8th of May that year, four military articles were enacted in the town hall, the courthouse of Galway. The articles concerned the securing of ammunition and the possible demolition of works and bulwarks. Walter Lynch, warden of Galway, a priest, doctor of divinity and of the laws, protonotary apostolic, and dean of Tuam, judged these articles to be against the Catholic faith. He and other clergy moved to act. On the 9th of May, 1642, Walter Lynch issued a sentence of excommunication against all persons who had voted for the articles. He gave them three days from that date to vote to the contrary in the same town hall, and thereby, as he wrote, rase, abolish and recall the said articles. If they did not, the excommunication stood. He called on the secular and regular fathers of the town to publish and intimate the sentence in their several chapels, and to see it observed and obeyed as far as they could. He dated it from his own place of habitation, the 9th of May, 1642.

21. Willoughby burns Galway's east suburbs

    Galway · city · Galway

    Captain Willoughby, learning that Iar-Connaught forces planned to quarter in the east suburbs of Galway, set fire to all the houses in that direction. The inhabitants within the town watched the entire suburb burn to the ground.

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    In the mean time the town declared its intention to invest the fort, and made every preparation for the purpose, by raising a battery, and blocking up all the passages to it, in order to reduce it by famine. They were joined by some country gentlemen, and about thirteen or fourteen hundred men from Iar-Connaught, and daily expected considerable assistance from Mayo : but, on the 1 3th of March, captain Willoughby having received intelligence that a large body of the Iar-Connaught forc»s would, on that night, quarter in the east suburbs, he immediately set fire to all the houses in that direction, and the people within the town were vexed and mortified at beholding the entire in flames and burned to the ground. The earl of Clanricarde, whose first object was to supply the fort with provisions, dispatched about one hundred and forty carriages of wheat, malt, and several other necessaries, to his castle of Oranmore, from whence they were safely conveyed to the fort by water. He then raised what forces he could muster in the country, to the number of seven hundred foot, and near two hundred horse, and on the 2d of April arrived at Oranmore; where, finding that the two only land passages to the fort, which were narrow, were occupied by the enemy's cannon, it was judged dangerous to attack the besiegers, particularly as they were entrenched in a craggy place, where his horse, which was his principal strength, could be of no service. He thereupon resolved to distress them by cutting off their supplies of provisions, of which they were already scarce; and with this view he placed strong garrisons in his castles of Oranmore, Clare-Galway, and Tirellan; the last of which was situate upon a neck of land commanding the river of Galway, and was committed to the charge of lieutenant Dermot O'Daly, a brave officer, 40 who, with three companies and thirty musketeers, performed most essential services. The rest of his troops he quartered up and down the barony of Clare, upon the tenants and estates of the townsmen and their friends, and with his horse scoured the plains, hindering all resort to the market, or any supply of provisions. The effects of these prompt and vigorous measures were soon felt, and produced discontents among the people within, and their auxiliaries without. The higher classes of the inhabitants were not favourable to the violent proceedings which had taken place, and the remainder dreaded their consequences and result. Meetings were accordingly held, and it was at length resolved to propose terms of adjustment and pacification.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 94

    As the companion tells it

    Galway is a place where an entire suburb was once put to the torch. The town had declared its intention to invest the fort, raising a battery and blocking all passages to reduce it by famine. Country gentlemen joined them, along with about thirteen or fourteen hundred men from Iar-Connaught, and they daily expected considerable assistance from Mayo. On the 13th of March, Captain Willoughby received intelligence that a large body of the Iar-Connaught forces would, that night, quarter in the east suburbs of the town. He immediately set fire to all the houses in that direction. The people within the town watched the entire suburb in flames and burned to the ground, vexed and mortified at the sight. The Earl of Clanricarde, whose first object was to supply the fort with provisions, dispatched about one hundred and forty carriages of wheat, malt, and other necessaries to his castle of Oranmore, from where they were safely conveyed to the fort by water. He then raised seven hundred foot and near two hundred horse, and on the 2nd of April arrived at Oranmore. Finding the two narrow land passages to the fort occupied by the enemy's cannon, and the besiegers entrenched in a craggy place where his horse could be of no service, he resolved to cut off their provisions. He placed garrisons in his castles of Oranmore, Clare-Galway, and Tirellan, the last commanding the river of Galway, entrusted to Lieutenant Dermot O'Daly with three companies and thirty musketeers. His horse scoured the plains, hindering all supply to the market. Discontent followed, and meetings were held until terms of pacification were proposed.

22. 1812 Galway parliamentary election: Blake of Menlo contests seat

    Galway · city · Galway · 1812

    After the dissolution of parliament in 1812, Valentine Blake of Menlo was prevailed upon to stand as the popular candidate for Galway against Mr. Ponsonby. After a severe contest and a petition, Ponsonby's election was declared void and Blake was declared duly elected, causing great rejoicing in the town.

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    The long wished for dissolution of parliament having at length taken place in 1812, Mr. Valentine Blake, of Menlo, was prevailed upon to offer himself as the popular candidate for the town : Mr. Ponsonby, the late member, was again put in nomination, and, after a severe contest, was declared duly elected. A petition was then presented against his return, and, after several proceedings before a committee of the house of commons, his election was pronounced void, and Mr. Blake was declared duly elcted. This success occasioned the greatest rejoicings in the town; but the committee having also determined the right of election to be in the freeholders and freemen, the great question of non-residence still remained undecided. To determine this important point, on which the entire business now depended, proceedings were instituted in the king's bench. In the meantime the exertions of Mr. Blake and the Independents were uninterrupted, and their endeavours were again crowned with success. On the election which took place after the dissolution of parliament in 1818, that gentleman (whose conduct in the senate and attention to the interests of the town met with the warmest approbation of his constituents,) was declared duly elected by a considerable majority over Mr. Prendergast, the friend and nominee o f Mr. Daly. This second victory, by which the independent cause seemed to be finally and firmly established, caused universal joy. Public dinners were given to signalize the event, and the triumphal procession of the victorious and popular candidate through the town was the most splendid ever before witnessed in this part of Ireland. 22 These feelings, however, were soon

    22 The following account of this pro- corporation assembled at Newtown-Smith,

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 160

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the city carries the story of a bitter election fight back in 1812. When parliament was dissolved that year, Valentine Blake of Menlo was urged to stand as the popular candidate for the town against Mr Ponsonby, who had been the member before. It was a severe contest. Ponsonby was declared elected, but a petition was brought against his return, and after proceedings before a committee of the House of Commons, his election was pronounced void and Blake was declared duly elected. The success caused the greatest rejoicings in the town. The committee also determined that the right of election lay with the freeholders and freemen, but the question of non-residence remained undecided, and proceedings were instituted in the King's Bench to settle it. Blake and the Independents kept up their efforts, and in the election of 1818 he was declared duly elected again, by a considerable majority over Mr Prendergast, the nominee of Mr Daly. Public dinners were given, and the triumphal procession of the popular candidate through the town was called the most splendid ever witnessed in this part of Ireland.

23. Freeman-only shop by-law targets Catholics in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1696

    A 1696 by-law prohibited anyone but a freeman from keeping an open shop in Galway or its liberties. Since no Roman Catholics were freemen, this effectively excluded them from trade; the petition against it failed and it contributed to the town's decline.

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    That no person but a freeman keep open shop in Galway or the liberties thereof, or sell or expose to sale any wares thereby except on market days, and paying quarterly.16

    ever they happened to strike, they left a slight mark behind. Their spawn they deposited near the surface of the ground, where it did considerable damage, by devouring the roots of the corn and grass. These formidable invaders were, however, easily killed ; smoke was their greatest enemy, and one wet day destroyed heaps of them. They proved good for the swine and poultry, and, according to some, were also used by the poorer sort of people. From the time of their first appearance they continued to proceed progressively with the westerly wind, and in 1696 they reached the Shannon ; but they were gradually destroyed. The year before, about forty or fifty horse-loads were found lying dead along the shores of the bay for miles westward of Galway. It was supposed that this new colony, coming from their native lands, Normandy or Brittany, in France, met with a contrary wind, which having blown them into the sea, they were drowned, and their bodies cast ashore.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 182

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this city carries a mark from 1696. That year, a by-law ordered that no person but a freeman could keep an open shop in the town or its liberties, or sell or expose any wares for sale, except on market days and paying quarterly. Since no Roman Catholics were freemen, the rule effectively shut them out of trade. A petition against it failed, and the by-law contributed to the town's decline. The same year also brought a strange invasion to these shores. Flying pests, believed to have come from Normandy or Brittany in France, had been progressing with the westerly wind. The year before, about forty or fifty horse-loads of them were found lying dead along the shores of the bay for miles westward, drowned when a contrary wind blew them into the sea.

24. Ancient families of Galway ordered unfit to live in town

    Galway · city · Galway · 1679–1680

    A 1679 by-law ordered that several named persons, principally the ancient families of Galway, were not fit to live in the town or be useful to the garrison. Non-freemen were also forbidden to trade by retail, on pain of having their goods seized and sold.

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    Ordered that several persons in the order named (principally the ancient families of Galway) are not fit to live in the towne, or men useful to the garrison.

    That notice be given forthwith to all persons that are not free of the corporation, that they do not presume to trade by retail within the town, ithre in shops or houses, or their goods shall be seised and sold. — The next year, alderman Robert Mathews, for abuse given by him to the mayor, was suspended from council ; and it was ordered, "that such persons as have borne offices in this corporation (masters of companies excepted) shall, every Sunday, in the forenoon, attend the king's sword to church in their gowns ; every person neglecting, to pay half a cobb each time, and upon refusal to be expelled the council, and that no person do presume to sit in the mayor's first seat without his gown.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 180

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this city carries a sharp order from 1679. A by-law declared that several named persons, principally the ancient families of the town, were "not fit to live in the towne, or men useful to the garrison." Non-freemen were forbidden to trade by retail in shops or houses, on pain of having their goods seized and sold. The next year, alderman Robert Mathews was suspended from council for abuse given to the mayor, and it was ordered that persons who had held offices in the corporation, masters of companies excepted, must every Sunday attend the king's sword to church in their gowns, on penalty of half a cobb each time and expulsion upon refusal.

25. Black petition against Catholics signed in Galway, 1761

    Galway · city · Galway · 1761

    The Reverend Edmund Ffrench, who served as mayor of Galway in 1774, was among those who signed the intolerant 'black petition' against Catholics in 1761. This reflected the climate of persecution in Galway within living memory of the 1816 chapel foundation.

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    13 The first of these three gentlemen, though a "non-tribe" by name, sprung from an ancient Galway family, one of whom was Catholic warden in 1620. The two latter, besides being descended from one of the fourteen families, were also recommended by a circumstance rather singular in its nature: Their father, the reverend Edmund Ffrench, had been for many years warden of the established church ; he also served the office of mayor in 1774; and his name appears signed, amongst others, to the intolerant "black petition" against the Catholics in 1761. Both his sons, however, when very young, became converts to the Catholic faith, and

    afterwards friars of the Franciscan order. The youngest having been elected, as above, in the place of doctor Bodkin, thus became Catholic warden in the same town in which his father had been for so many years Pirotestant warden : and that he may long so continue, with honour to himself and benefit to the community, is the sincere wish of the author.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 215

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in a city with a harsh chapter in its past. In 1761, a document known as the "black petition" was signed here, an intolerant petition against Catholics. Among the signers was the Reverend Edmund Ffrench, who served as warden of the established church for many years and later became mayor of Galway in 1774. Yet the story took an unexpected turn. Both of his sons, while very young, converted to the Catholic faith and became Franciscan friars. The youngest was elected Catholic warden in Galway itself, the same town where his father had long held the Protestant wardenship. So within one family, within living memory, the tide turned from persecution to conversion, from the black petition to a son holding the very office the petition sought to suppress.

26. Catholic clergy ordered to depart Galway, 1674

    Galway · city · Galway · 1674

    In 1674, Gregory Constable, mayor of Galway, informed the privy council that several Catholic clergy in the town were willing to transport themselves to France but could not afford the freight. The council ordered that the persons should transport themselves at their own peril and directed the mayor to see them transported accordingly.

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    26 Even during the comparatively milder reign of Charles II. the Catholic clergy were severely persecuted. Of this an instance shall be given from an original document now before us : — In 1674. Gregory Constable, then mayor of Galway, informed the privy council that several of the popish clergy in the town, commanded by the late proclamation to depart the kingdom, were willing, in conformity thereto, to transport themselves in a ship then in the harbour, bound for France, but that one Lynch, the master or owner, would not undertake their freight under 40s. for each, which they pretended they were not able to raise, therefore the mayor prayed their excellencies directions. On consideration of the matter, it was resolved by the board, on 18th May, "that it was not fitting that his majesty should be at the expense of that or any other sum on that account" ; and they ordered "that it should be signified to the mayor that the said persons at their perils should transport them-

    selves ; and that the mayor is to do his duty in seeing them transported accordingly." Jo. Davys Orig MS.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 203

    As the companion tells it

    Galway, in 1674. Even under Charles the Second, Catholic clergy were persecuted here. Gregory Constable, then mayor of Galway, wrote to the privy council that several of the popish clergy in the town, commanded by proclamation to depart the kingdom, were willing to transport themselves on a ship then in the harbour, bound for France. But one Lynch, the master or owner, would not undertake their freight under 40 shillings for each person, and the clergy said they could not raise the money. The mayor asked the council for directions. On the 18th of May, the board resolved that it was not fitting that his majesty should be at the expense of that or any other sum on that account. They ordered that it should be signified to the mayor that the said persons, at their perils, should transport themselves, and that the mayor is to do his duty in seeing them transported accordingly. The order was signed Jo. Davys.

27. Col. Grace defeated near Galway

    Galway · city · Galway

    Colonel Richard Grace of Moyelly Castle, King's County, defended a pass near Galway with 3,000 men but was defeated in a sanguinary engagement by Colonel Ingoldsby. This defeat led to the speedy reduction of the entire province.

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    9. Shortly after this period, colonel Rd. Grace, of Moyelly Castle, in the King's County, (one of the bravest officers of his time, and also one of the most steadfast adherents of the ungrateful Stuart family), while defending an important pass in the neighbourhood of Galway, at the head of 3000 men, was defeated in a sanguinary engagement by colonel Ingoldsby. — This defeat was follewed by the speedy reduction of the entire province.

    On the 25th October, 1654, the mayor and sheriffs were removed by order of the government, and those immediately succeeding were appointed. — Vide p. 136.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 178

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, there is a story from the 1650s. Colonel Richard Grace of Moyelly Castle in King's County, described as one of the bravest officers of his time and a steadfast adherent of the Stuart family, defended an important pass in this neighbourhood with 3,000 men. He was defeated in a sanguinary engagement by Colonel Ingoldsby, and this defeat was followed by the speedy reduction of the entire province. On the 25th of October 1654, the mayor and sheriffs were removed by order of the government, with their successors appointed immediately after.

28. Colonel John Burke arrives in Galway as Confederate commander

    Galway · city · Galway · 1642–1643

    Colonel John Burke, a Mayo-born veteran of thirty years' service in Spain, arrived in Galway where he was joyfully received. He had been appointed lieutenant-general of Connaught by the Catholic general assembly at Kilkenny in October 1642, and initially sought peaceful terms with the fort.

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    - At this crisis colonel John Burke arrived in Galway, where he was joyfuly received, having been some time before appointed lieutenant-general of Connaught by the general assembly of Catholics which met at Kilkenny on the 24th of October, 1642. Colonel Burke was born in the county of Mayo : he was a man of great prudence and discretion, a brave experienced soldier, (having served upwards of thirty years in the service of Spain,) and high in the confidence of the town and country. He at first endeavoured to keep a fair correspondence with the fort; offered to open the gates; have the benefit of markets and free intercourse between it and the town, provided they contained themselves within bounds, were obedient to the directions of lord Clanricarde, desisted from spoiling, burning or plundering the country, killing or taking the town's-men prisoners, or relieving or aiding the puritans that daily come in ships unto them, and who were the king's declared enemies. These amicable propositions being all rejected by Willoughby, and the castle of Clare-Galway having, on the 28th of February. 1643, through the contrivance of Jonakin Lynch, the earl of Clanricarde's tenant there, the carelessness of the warders, and the management of a Franciscan friar, been surprised by captain Thomas Burke, of Anbally, the acquisition of a place of such strength and importance at once determined their future proceedings. Colonel Burke declared against the fort, and called upon the several gentlemen of the country to levy forces for the purpose of besieging it. Accordingly, in April, 1643, Francis and John Bermingham, son and grand-son of lord Athenry, Sir Ulick Burke, Hubert Burke of Dunamon, Redmond, Richard and Thomas Burke of Kilcornan. Derrymacloghny and Anbally, the three Tiege Kellys of Gallagh, Aughrim and Mullaghmore, Sir Valentine Blake, Sir Roebuck Lynch, and other principal gentlemen of the county, took up arms, and marched with considerable strength towards Galway. Colonel Burke put himself at their head, and about the latter end of that month began to inclose the fort at a distance, and fortify some passages towards the sea, to hinder any relief from that quarter. He invested it with upwards of a thousand men, and posted a body of troops at Clare-Galway and Athenry, to prevent any movement which might be attempted by lord Clanricarde. Provisions becoming scarce in the fort, captain Willoughby, who, on his part, was not inactive, dispatched a party of fifty men to make booty in Iar-Connaught : they were discovered

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 98

    As the companion tells it

    Galway in 1642 was a town waiting for a leader. Colonel John Burke arrived that year and was joyfully received. The Catholic general assembly at Kilkenny had appointed him lieutenant-general of Connaught on the 24th of October, 1642. Burke was born in Mayo and had served upwards of thirty years in the army of Spain. He was a man of great prudence and discretion, a brave experienced soldier, and high in the confidence of both town and country. He at first tried to keep a fair correspondence with the fort. He offered to open the gates, allow markets and free intercourse between the fort and the town, provided they contained themselves within bounds, were obedient to the directions of lord Clanricarde, and desisted from spoiling, burning or plundering the country, killing or taking the town's-men prisoners, or aiding the puritans who came in ships to them as the king's declared enemies. These amicable propositions were all rejected by Willoughby. Then on the 28th of February, 1643, the castle of Clare-Galway was surprised by captain Thomas Burke of Anbally, through the contrivance of Jonakin Lynch, the earl of Clanricarde's tenant, the carelessness of the warders, and the management of a Franciscan friar. The loss of a place of such strength determined their future proceedings. Colonel Burke declared against the fort and called upon the gentlemen of the country to levy forces. In April 1643, Francis and John Bermingham, Sir Ulick Burke, Hubert Burke of Dunamon, the three Tiege Kellys of Gallagh, Aughrim and Mullaghmore, Sir Valentine Blake, Sir Roebuck Lynch and other principal gentlemen took up arms. Colonel Burke put himself at their head and began to enclose the fort, fortifying passages towards the sea to hinder relief. He invested it with upwards of a thousand men and posted troops at Clare-Galway and Athenry. Provisions grew scarce in the fort, and captain Willoughby dispatched a party of fifty men to make booty in Iar-Connaught. They were discovered.

29. Daly family dominance of Galway mayoralty after Blake controversy

    Galway · city · Galway

    A petition concerning the admission of Patrick Blake as mayor of Galway fell through, and the entire opposition was attributed to that circumstance. Thereafter, only members of the Daly family served as mayors of Galway.

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    corporation.' — Petitioners, therefore, prayed to be heard by council and that they should be approved of, and the others disallowed.— Orig. MS. — This petition, however, fell to the ground ; and the entire opposition being attributed to the circumstance of originally admitting Patrick Blake to be sworn mayor, none but members of the name and family of Daly have been mayors of Galway since the year after this period.

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

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 188

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the city carries an old political legacy. A petition about Patrick Blake being sworn in as mayor fell to the ground, and the whole opposition was blamed on that very admission. From the year after that point on, only members of the name and family of Daly served as mayors of Galway.

30. Death of Kirwan's Catholic brother in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1787–1805

    Walter Blake Kirwan's conversion to the established church in 1787 caused unbounded regret among his relations. His brother, an exemplary Catholic clergyman in Galway, is said to have died of grief occasioned by the conversion.

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

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 256

    As the companion tells it

    Galway holds a story from the late eighteenth century, about a family divided by faith. Walter Blake Kirwan was educated at the Jesuits' College at St. Omer's. At 17 he went to the island of St. Croix in the West Indies, where he remained six years. On his return to Europe, his maternal uncle, Doctor Anthony Blake, titular primate of Ireland, sent him to the University of Louvain. There he received priest's orders and was promoted to the chair of natural and moral philosophy. In 1778 he was appointed chaplain to the Neapolitan ambassador at the British court. In the gay circles of London, it is said, he first formed the idea of embracing the Protestant religion. He returned to Ireland and in 1787 conformed to the established church. This proved a source of unbounded regret to his numerous and respectable friends and relations. His brother, an exemplary Catholic clergyman in Galway, is said to have died of grief, originally occasioned by the circumstance. His uncle the archbishop bore it more philosophically. When informed that his nephew had changed his religion, the old prelate replied, "Tut, man, he had no religion to change," though this may be reasonably attributed to resentment. The new convert brought a considerable accession of talent to the church he had chosen. His fame blazed forth with a lustre unprecedented in the annals of pulpit eloquence, and his talents were always made subservient to the sacred cause of charity. In 1798 he was appointed prebend of Howth and rector of St. Nicholas Without in Dublin. In 1800 he was preferred to the moderate deanery of Killala. He died on 27th October 1805 near Dublin, leaving a wife and four children very ill provided for, until the crown granted his widow a pension of £300 a year.

31. Dominican nuns re-establish community in Galway, 1686

    Galway · city · Galway · 1686–1688

    Julia Nolan and Maria Lynch returned to Galway in 1686 by direction of John Browne, provincial of the order in Ireland. Nolan was instituted prioress and Lynch sub-prioress. A house was provided for them in the town, and the community increased and was effectually re-established within two years.

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    In 1644 the affairs of the Catholics of Ireland, and particularly those oi the Dominicans, were in a flourishing state; but there was no convent established for nuns of that order, until the inhabitants of Galway, by the consent of the general and provincial chapter, founded this nunnery. Father Gregory French, a learned and virtuous Dominican, who was afterwards banished from his native country and died in exile in Italy, was appointed the first superior. 37 When the town was taken by Cromwell's forces in 1652, the nuns, with their then vicar, father Gregory O'Ferrall, went to Spain. Two only of the number survived, namely, Julia Nolan and Maria Lynch, who returned to Galway in 1686, by direction of John Browne, provincial of the order in Ireland. On their arrival, the former was instituted prioress, and the latter sub-prioress; a house having been provided for them in the town, the community soon increased, and, before the end of two years, was effectually re-established.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 224

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Galway now, a city where Dominican nuns were driven out and fought their way back. The townspeople founded a nunnery here in 1644 with consent of the general and provincial chapter, and Father Gregory French, who later died in exile in Italy, was the first superior. When Cromwell's forces took the town in 1652, the nuns fled to Spain with their vicar, Father Gregory O'Ferrall. Only two survived: Julia Nolan and Maria Lynch. They came back in 1686 by direction of John Browne, provincial of the order in Ireland. Nolan was instituted prioress, Lynch sub-prioress. A house was provided in the town, the community grew, and before two years passed it was effectually re-established.

32. Freedom of Galway corporation presented to Walter Burgh

    Galway · city · Galway · 1779

    In 1779 the Galway corporation ordered that the freedom of the corporation be presented in a gold box to Walter Burgh, praising his judicial and legislative service. The address lamented the political councils that extorted his resignation from crown office.

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    Ordered, that the freedom of this corporation be presented, in a gold box, to the right honourable Walter Burgh, accompanied with the following address: — "We, the mayor, etc. fully sensible of the great ability and diligence manifested by you in a judicial character amongst us, and of the virtue and firmness exerted in your legislative capacity, beg leave, as a small mark of our gratitude, to offer you the freedom of this ancient and once nourishing town — a distinction which your spirited endeavours have so eminenly contribued to recover. We must, at the same time, in common with the irest of Ireland, lament the prevalence of those councils which extorted a resignation from that servant of the crown, in whom the people implicitly confided, and whose wisdom adopted the only remaining mode of averting the ruin of this country."

    corporation.' — Petitioners, therefore, prayed to be heard by council and that they should be approved of, and the others disallowed.— Orig. MS. — This petition, however, fell to the ground ; and the entire opposition being attributed to the circumstance of originally admitting Patrick Blake to be sworn mayor, none but members of the name and family of Daly have been mayors of Galway since the year after this period.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 188

    As the companion tells it

    Galway in 1779 was a town that marked its gratitude in gold. The corporation ordered that the freedom of the town be presented to the Right Honourable Walter Burgh, in a gold box, with an address from the mayor and others. They praised his great ability and diligence in a judicial character among them, and the virtue and firmness he showed in his legislative capacity. They called the freedom of the town a small mark of their gratitude, a distinction his spirited endeavours had contributed to recover. At the same time the address lamented, in common with the rest of Ireland, the prevalence of those councils which extorted a resignation from a servant of the crown in whom the people had implicitly confided, and whose wisdom had adopted the only remaining mode of averting the ruin of the country. A petition arose around this time that fell to the ground. The opposition was attributed to the circumstance of originally admitting Patrick Blake to be sworn mayor. After this, none but members of the name and family of Daly served as mayors of Galway.

33. Galway by-laws target usury and disorder, 1580

    Galway · city · Galway · 1580

    In 1580, Galway's corporation passed by-laws prohibiting excessive interest-taking by money-lenders, fining inhabitants 20s for harbouring bawdry or harlots, and requiring that taxes be paid only according to ability. The articles reflected concerns about greed, disorder, and fairness in the town.

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    Many and sundry gredy, detestable and inordinate gains of living of interests or cambies, after the rate of a peck of wheat or a good hyd for the marke, by the yeare has been taken up by such as lent mo ney, ordred that none be hereafter taken by such as are authorised by her majesty's laws.

    Any inhabitant contorting, lodging or mayntayning in his house or otherwise, any bawdry or harlotts, shall forfeit every time 20s.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 170

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this was a town that tried to curb its own greed and disorder in 1580. The corporation passed by-laws against money-lenders taking "detestable and inordinate gains" of interest, sometimes at the rate of a peck of wheat or a hide per year. Any inhabitant caught lodging or harbouring bawdry or harlots would forfeit 20 shillings each time.

34. Galway council's cessation proposal rejected by Ludlow

    Galway · city · Galway · 1652

    After Ludlow's rejection of Clanricarde's proposals, the great council within Galway proposed a cessation of arms and a licence for commissioners to travel to the English parliament. Ludlow rejected these as unreasonable, declaring that those guilty of massacre should not be permitted to capitulate.

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    18 An extract from Ludlow's dispatches to Sir Richard Blake, in answer to those propositions, will fully develope the views of the parliamentary leaders, and justify the fears then entertained of their intentions.— "You reiterate the former application from the earl of Clanricarde for the settlement of this nation ; differing only in this, that he would have capitulated on the place : you propose to repair to repaire to England, apprehending^ the former denyall to proceed from want of power here, whereas the chiefe grounds were the unreasonableness of the proposition, that such (who are guilty of a bloody and cruell massacre at least engaged in the witholding of them from justice who are soe, whom the righteous hand of God hath prosecuted from field to field, from city to city, even to the gates of Galway,) should be admitted to capitulate about the settlement of this nation with the par-

    liament of England, (their lawfull magistrate,) whom God hath not only permitted to be raised to their present height, as you terme it, but by his owne outstretched arme and glorious presence hath enabled to become a terrour to evil doers, and an encouragement to them that doe well ; and this capitulation to be before they have either owned their guilt, or delivered up those Achans to -justice, for whos« iniquity the land mournes. Indeed if once the Lord would truly humble you under Ids omnipotent hand, for your raising and fomenting this unnatural quarrell between two nations of late linked in love, allyed in blood, and not different in laws, (as yourselves confesse,) and would incline you timely and readily to submit to their authority, (as the greatest part of th« nation have alreday done^I should then hope that deliverances were^drawing nigh. As touching the cessation you propose for avoydinge the further effusion of christian

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 106

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this city holds a story from 1652. After Ludlow had already rejected the Earl of Clanricarde's proposals, the great council within Galway proposed a cessation of arms and sought licence for commissioners to travel to the English parliament. Sir Richard Blake received Ludlow's answer. Ludlow wrote that the council was reiterating Clanricarde's former application for the settlement of the nation. The only difference was that Clanricarde would have capitulated on the place, while they proposed to repair to England, fearing the earlier denial came from a want of power. Ludlow called the proposition unreasonable. He said that those guilty of a bloody and cruel massacre, or engaged in withholding from justice those who are, should not be admitted to capitulate about the settlement of the nation with the parliament of England, whom he called their lawful magistrate. He wrote that the righteous hand of God had prosecuted them "from field to field, from city to city, even to the gates of Galway." He said God had enabled parliament to become a terror to evil doers and an encouragement to them that do well. He said this capitulation was to come before they had owned their guilt or delivered up those he called Achans to justice, for whose iniquity the land mourns. He told them that if the Lord would truly humble them for raising and fomenting this unnatural quarrel between two nations lately linked in love, allied in blood, and not different in laws, and if they would submit to parliament's authority as the greatest part of the nation had already done, he would hope that deliverances were drawing nigh. As for the cessation they proposed for avoiding the further effusion of Christian blood, his dispatch breaks off there.

35. Galway fined £100 for non-attendance at parliament

    Galway · city · Galway · 1377

    In 1377, the provost and bailiffs of Galway were summoned to appear at a parliament to be held at Trisdeldermot but failed to attend. They were subsequently fined £100 for their non-attendance, as recorded in the Close Rolls of Richard II.

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    The most ancient summonses to the parliament of Ireland extant, are directed to the barons and members by name. In the year 1310, Richard de Burgo was summoned for Connaught. — Rot. Claus. 3 Edw. II. — In subsequent records of that and the succeeding reign, other members of the Same family were summoned for the, ''County of Connaught." — Id. 46 and 48 Edw. III. — After this period, writs were directed to the sheriffs of counties and magistrates of cities and towns. It does not appear that Galway returned any members to the memorable Irish parliament convened at Westminster in 1376; but, on the 22nd January, the year following, the provost and bailiffs were summoned to appear at a parliament to be held at Trisdeldermot, on Monday next after the feast of embers; and they were afterwards fined £100 for not attending. — Rot. Claus. 1 Rich, II. — A like summons issued, dated 11th September, 1380. — Id. de ann. 4. — another 29th April, 1382, and one in 1394. — Id. de Ann. 5 and 18. — Similar summonses at the same time issued to the provost and bailiffs of Athenry. In the great roll of the Pipe, 14 Hen. VI. in Berm. Tower, the chief magistrate and constable of Galway were fined 100s. because, at the council of the lord and king, on Friday next after the feast of St. Nicholas and bishop, in the

    237

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 190

    As the companion tells it

    Galway is a town with old parliamentary obligations hanging over it. The most ancient summonses to the parliament of Ireland that still survive were directed to barons and members by name. In 1310, Richard de Burgo was summoned for Connaught. In later records of that reign and the one following, other members of the same family were summoned for the County of Connaught. After that, writs were directed instead to sheriffs of counties and magistrates of cities and towns. It does not appear that Galway returned any members to the memorable Irish parliament convened at Westminster in 1376. But on the 22nd of January, the year following, the provost and bailiffs were summoned to appear at a parliament to be held at Trisdeldermot, on Monday next after the feast of embers. They did not attend, and they were afterwards fined £100 for not attending. A like summons issued, dated the 11th of September, 1380. Another on the 29th of April, 1382, and one in 1394. Similar summonses at the same time went to the provost and bailiffs of Athenry. Later still, in the great roll of the Pipe, 14 Henry the Sixth, the chief magistrate and constable of Galway were fined 100 shillings for absence from the council of the lord and king.

36. Galway population and growing poverty, 1812 census

    Galway · city · Galway · 1812

    The 1812 census return for Galway town and liberties recorded only 24,484 inhabitants, though enumerators were accused of gross neglect. The population was generally estimated at about 40,000, including a vast number of daily increasing poor without trade, manufactures, or adequate employment.

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

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 158

    As the companion tells it

    Galway in 1812 was a city whose true size its own officials could not count. The census return for the town and liberties that year recorded 24,484 inhabitants. But those entrusted with the enumeration were, by their own subsequent accusations against each other, guilty of gross neglect and omission. The general and most probable opinion put the population at about 40,000. Within that number was a vast and daily increasing body of poor, without trade, manufactures, or adequate employment. The people of Galway attributed this growing evil, along with other local wants and inconveniences, to neglect and inattention by the town's parliamentary representatives. It was concluded that members acquainted with the town's situation, or solicitous for its welfare, would have prevented these increasing evils and adopted measures for its benefit. While these feelings were still alive among the principal inhabitants, a vacancy occurred in the representation of the town. The sheriffs, expecting no resistance, returned the Hon. Frederick Ponsonby, the nominee of Mr. Daly. Colonel Richard Martin, John French Madden, and Richard Maunsell formally protested the illegality of the proceeding, held without due notice. Their objections were over-ruled, and the member was declared duly returned. These gentlemen then addressed the townspeople, who had assembled merely from curiosity. They told them that the repetition of what they had witnessed that day had occasioned all the wretchedness of poverty, all the immorality and vice, by which they were surrounded. They said this was the sole cause of their distress: hence their prisons were crowded with debtors and malefactors, their quays left without shipping, their store-houses empty, their poor without employment.

37. Galway's English colony and commercial rise

    Galway · city · Galway

    Galway rose from comparative insignificance to a high degree of national consideration, becoming a port whose mercantile greatness was superior to any in the British dominions except London. The town described itself as an ancient colony of English planted among a people then considered 'English enemies.'

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    direction, so amply abounds,) gradually rose from a state of comparative insignificance to a high degree of national consideration, and that the town, however extraordinary it may now appear, arrived to a pitch of mercantile greatness superior, with the single exception of London, to any other port in the British dominions. f Even to an English reader, the progress of so flourishing a colony of his own nation, or, as described by itself, "an ancient colonic of English, planted in this nook of the country," among a people then considered as "English enemies," may not be altogether unacceptable. To the politician and philosopher it may be useful to detail the various circumstances which led to the decline of a town formerly so celebrated. At the present crisis, also, when so many of his majesty's subjects are endeavoring, by constitutional means, to become emanicpated from those penal inflictions under which they have so long and so patiently labored, the following pages will demonstrate, by many examples, that the principles of Catholics are not incompatible with the strictest observance of loyalty to nionarchs of a different persuasion. They will also shew that no diversity of religious opinion, or even severity of treatment under the most rigid enforcement of the penal laws, could ever weaken the allegiance of the Catholics of Ireland as subjects, or influence their demeanour as peaceable citizens. Several most honorable proofs will likewise be found of their most unalterable attachment to the Protestant monarchs of Great Britain, and their representative rulers in his country — For these, and other reasons., the author has ventured to hope that his labors ma}' not be altogether useless, and even that they may be attended with results superior to those of satisfying mere antiquarian research, or gratifying the impulse of fruitless curiosity.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in a town that rose from comparative insignificance to a high degree of national consideration. Its mercantile greatness grew superior to any port in the British dominions, with the single exception of London. The town described itself as an ancient colony of English, planted in this nook of the country, among a people then considered as English enemies. The author notes that tracing the various circumstances which led to the decline of a town formerly so celebrated may be useful to the politician and philosopher. He also writes at a time when many of his majesty's subjects are endeavoring by constitutional means to become emancipated from penal inflictions under which they have long and patiently labored. His pages will demonstrate by many examples that the principles of Catholics are not incompatible with the strictest observance of loyalty to monarchs of a different persuasion. He says no diversity of religious opinion, or even severity of treatment under the most rigid enforcement of the penal laws, could ever weaken the allegiance of the Catholics of Ireland as subjects, or influence their demeanour as peaceable citizens. Several proofs will likewise be found of their most unalterable attachment to the Protestant monarchs of Great Britain and their representative rulers in this country.

38. Galway siege preparations and fortifications

    Galway · city · Galway · 1691

    The town of Galway prepared defences against an approaching English siege. French forces repaired fortified works on the hill, townspeople worked on the fort near the south-east corner of the wall, and about fifty cannon were mounted at various positions along the walls and citadel.

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

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Galway, the city you pass through was the scene of a desperate defence in 1691. The town was preparing for a siege, and everyone was put to work. The French repaired the fortified works on the hill. The townspeople were employed on the fort near the south-east corner of the wall. Strong works were thrown up to defend the east gate, and all the cabins and hedges round the suburbs were levelled to clear the ground. Within the walls, eight guns were planted on the upper citadel. Near it was a platform of six, and eight or ten more were raised at the south-east corner. On the turret that stood towards the middle of the long curtain next the bay, there were two. On the side next the river, five more. With those planted towards the west and north, it made about fifty pieces of cannon. Many of these were old and ill-mounted. Some of the best guns belonging to the town had been taken away shortly before for other urgent services, and several fine brass pieces lay dismounted and useless in the streets. There was a considerable store of provisions, but a great quantity of meal, salt, and other supplies was brought from the shipping in the bay. Before the army moved toward the town, Colonel Lutterel led a party of horse trying to approach and assist, but was met by cavalry posted at Kilcolgan and forced to retire. The Irish commanders tried to throw in reinforcements across the bay from the county of Clare, but Captain Morgan appeared with his party and prevented them, after a skirmish in which three or four men were killed and eight taken prisoner. These disappointments did not dishearten the town. They stimulated its exertions, and every preparation was made to defend it to the last extremity.

39. Galway townspeople submit to Sir William De Burgh in revolt

    Galway · city · Galway · 1388–1390

    In November 1388, Henry Blake and the burgesses and commonalty of Galway rang the common bell, paid fealty to Sir William De Burgh — the king's enemy — and delivered him all the keys of the town gates. Blake was later indicted for high treason and pleaded a pardon at Ballinrobe in 1390.

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    Sir William De Burgh, who was the then Mac William Eighter, and consequently lord of Galway, having, after repeated provocations, revolted against the weak and vacillating government of the day, once more involved the town in those rebellious proceedings. Amongst the plea rolls preserved in Bermingham tower, 3 there is still extant the record of a pardon, pleaded by one Henry Blake against an indictment for high treason, for joining Sir William on that occasion. This process was held before Milo, bishop of Cloyne, and Thomas Hill, justices in the Connaught Districts, at the town of Robe, (now Ballinrobe,) on the Wednesday next after the festival of Saint Barnaby the Apostle, 1390, when it was presented, that Henry Blake of Galvy, with other burgesses of the town, and also all the commonalty, by common agreement, in Nov. 1388, rang the common bell, and paid the fealty, which they owed the king, unto William, son of Richard de Burgo. the king s enemy; who, in the name of dominion, received from them the said fealty, fishing weirs, fisheries, mills, rents, services, and all other emoluments in the said town belonging to the king : and that they aided the said William to resist the king and his ministers, and afterwards rang the common bell, and delivered to him all the keys of the gates of the town, to resist and prevent the entrance of the king and his ministers. Sir William De Burgh having afterwards submitted4 and obtained pardon, the town returned tof its allegiance, and peace and tranquillity were once more restored.

    From this period Galway continued gradually to increase. Its situation, trade, and rising population, soon attracted the attention of government; and it was at length resolved to give the town every encouragement, and render it a place of permanent defence and security. Accordingly on 8th Nov. 1396, a new and perpetual murage charter was granted to the inhabitants by Richard the Second.''5 The preamble to this grant states, that the king, as well in aid of the town of Galvy, (which is described as being

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 56

    As the companion tells it

    Galway, the city your road passes through, was once a place that turned its own gates over to a rebel. In November 1388, Henry Blake of Galway, together with other burgesses and all the commonalty of the town, rang the common bell and paid the fealty they owed the king to Sir William De Burgh, who was then Mac William Eighter and lord of Galway. De Burgh had revolted against the government of the day after repeated provocations, and the town joined him in those rebellious proceedings. He received their fealty, the fishing weirs, the fisheries, the mills, the rents, the services, and all other emoluments in the town belonging to the king. They aided De Burgh to resist the king and his ministers. They rang the common bell again and delivered to him all the keys of the gates of the town, to resist and prevent the entrance of the king and his ministers. For this, Henry Blake was indicted for high treason. The record of his pardon survives among the plea rolls preserved in Bermingham tower. The process was held before Milo, bishop of Cloyne, and Thomas Hill, justices in the Connaught Districts, at the town of Robe, now Ballinrobe, on the Wednesday next after the festival of Saint Barnaby the Apostle, 1390. Blake pleaded his pardon there. Sir William De Burgh afterwards submitted and obtained pardon himself. The town returned to its allegiance, and peace and tranquillity were restored. From this period Galway continued gradually to increase. Its situation, trade, and rising population attracted the attention of government, and on the 8th of November 1396, Richard the Second granted the inhabitants a new and perpetual murage charter, describing the town as being in need of aid.

40. John Howard inspects Galway county gaol

    Galway · city · Galway · 1788

    In 1788, prison reformer Mr. Howard visited the Galway county gaol near the river. He noted that criminals were kept in two long rooms with dirt floors and no fire-place, and that felons received a sixpenny loaf every other day, which they often sold to buy potatoes.

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    In 1 788 Mr. Howard visited this prison, of which he gave the following account : — " Galway county gaol is near the river; there is a new court, but no pump; the criminals are in two long rooms with dirt floors and no fire-place; the debtors have small rooms above stairs. Allowance to felons, a sixpenny loaf of household bread every other day, (weight three pound, twelve ounces,) which they often sell for four-pence halfpenny to buy potatoes. Gaoler's salary 20/. 1788, April I. Debtors 4. Felons, etc., 14."

    In 1791 and 1792, presentments passed for erecting a more spacious prison, and, after the necessary arrangements were made, an act of parliament was obtained in April, 1802, " for building a new gaol for the county of Galway, and for purchasing land sufficient for the same, and for other purposes relating thereto. "32 The building was soon after commenced, and continued without intermission until the entire was completed, at an enormous expense. The prisoners were removed into it from the old

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 245

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are near where the old county gaol stood by the river, inspected in 1788 by the prison reformer John Howard. He found the criminals kept in two long rooms with dirt floors and no fire-place, while the debtors had small rooms upstairs. The felons received a sixpenny loaf of household bread every other day, weighing three pounds and twelve ounces, which Howard noted they often sold for fourpence halfpenny to buy potatoes. On the first of April that year there were 4 debtors and 14 felons inside. The gaoler's salary was 20 pounds. Presentments for a more spacious prison passed in 1791 and 1792, and an act of parliament was obtained in April 1802 for building a new county gaol. Construction began soon after and continued without interruption until the entire building was completed, at what the record calls an enormous expense. The prisoners were then removed from the old gaol into the new one.

41. Mayor Lynch and Spanish trade with Galway, 1493

    Galway · city · Galway · 1493

    In 1493, a member of the principal Lynch family of Galway was elected mayor, at a time when regular and friendly commercial intercourse existed between Galway and several parts of Spain. The mayor himself voyaged to Cadiz and was hospitably received by a wealthy Spanish merchant named Gomez, whose son accompanied him back to Ireland.

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    principal inhabitants of Galway, was elected mayor in ,1493; at which time a regular and friendly intercourse subsisted between the town and several parts of Spain. This mayor, who from his youth had been distinguished for public spirit, had, from commercial motives, on all occasions encouraged an intercourse that proved so lucrative as well as to his town's-men as to the Spaniards; and in order the more firmly to establish the connexion between them, he himself went on a voyage to Spain, and was received, when at Cadiz, at the house of a rich and respectable merchant, of the name of Gomez, with the utmost hospitality, and with every mark of esteem suitable to his high reputation and to the liberality of his entertainer. Upon his departure for his own country, out of a wish to make some grateful return for the numerous civilities he had received from the Spaniard, he requested of him, as a particular favor, to allow his son, a youth of nineteen, to accompany him to Ireland, promising to take parental care of him during his stay, and to provide for his being safely restored to his friends whenever he desired to return. Young Gomez, who was the pride of his parents and relations, was rejoiced at this agreeable opportunity of seeing the world; and the merchant's request was gratefully complied with by his father. They embarked accordingly, and, after an easy passage? arrived in the bay of Galway. Lynch introduced the young stranger to his

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 64

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Galway now. In 1493, a member of the principal Lynch family was elected mayor of this town, at a time when a regular and friendly intercourse subsisted between Galway and several parts of Spain. This mayor had from his youth been distinguished for public spirit, and from commercial motives he had on all occasions encouraged an intercourse that proved as lucrative to his townsmen as to the Spaniards. In order to establish the connection between them more firmly, he himself went on a voyage to Spain. When at Cadiz he was received at the house of a rich and respectable merchant named Gomez, with the utmost hospitality, and with every mark of esteem suitable to his high reputation and to the liberality of his entertainer. Upon his departure for his own country, out of a wish to make some grateful return for the numerous civilities he had received from the Spaniard, he requested of him as a particular favor to allow his son, a youth of 19, to accompany him to Ireland. He promised to take parental care of him during his stay and to provide for his being safely restored to his friends whenever he desired to return. Young Gomez, who was the pride of his parents and relations, was rejoiced at this opportunity of seeing the world. His father gratefully complied. They embarked, and after an easy passage arrived in the bay of Galway. Lynch introduced the young stranger to his townsmen.

42. Plans for Catholic rising against troops at Headford, Loughrea and Gort

    Headford · town · Galway

    Fears were raised that disaffected Catholics in Galway might attempt to seize the garrison and that their friends would simultaneously rise upon troops quartered at Headford, Loughrea, and Gort, making them masters of the whole country. A safe retreat into the highlands of Iar-Connaught and Joyce Country was also contemplated.

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    restless, active, subtle and industrious agents and emissaries of Rome, trie popish ecclesiastics then in the town, might work on their devotees, (who were exceedingly numerous,) and precipitate them to attempt to seize upon the garrison. They might represent to them that the undertaking was feasible, as the possessors seemed to think themselves in perfect security : that the garrison, arms and ammunition they would thereby possess, would secure them from being dislodged for some months, in which time they would have succour from France : that the country being devoted to the same cause, they would be sufficiently supplied with provisions : that their friends would, at the same time, rise upon the several troops quartered at Headford, Loughrea and Gort, which would make them masters of the whole country : that their success would encourage other disaffected parts of the kingdom to rise; at least, that the government, mistrustful of their inclinations, would not venture to draw off troops from such parts, and could not, therefore, bring together a number sufficient to recover the town without a train of artillery, without which it would be impossible to drive them out : and that, supposing the worst, they might, in the end, make a safe retreat into the inaccessible highlands of Iar-Connaught and Joyce- Country, and there remain in perfect security, until an opportunity should offer to carry them off to France. Finally, to lay grounds for all these alarming conjectures, allusion was made to the insolent behaviour of the Papists and their clergy, at Galway, in September, 1745, upon the appearance, on the coast, of the homeward-bound East India Fleet, consisting of fourteen sail, whilst they were supposed to be the Ferrol squadron; which proved how ripe they were to lay hold of every occasion to attempt the subversion of the government. All these representations, however, forcible as they were, and so well calculated to arouse the attention and to excite the alarm of government, proved ineffectual. The rulers of the country were well aware that the Catholics had neither the power, nor yet the inclination, to give any disturbance; and that, according to the declaration of a distinguished senator in the house of commons, soon after that period, "not a man of them moved tongue, pen or sword," upon that or any other occasion, to give the slightest uneasiness to the government. They remained, therefore, unmolested in Galway, where they have ever since given continual proof of their steady loyalty and sincere affection, from principle, for the government of the country.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 148

    As the companion tells it

    Near Headford, there was once a fear that ran through the ruling class of Galway, a fear that the town would be the first link in a chain of rebellion. The worry was that disaffected Catholics, stirred by their priests, might try to seize the garrison in Galway itself. The garrison seemed secure, its possessors confident, and that confidence was taken as opportunity. If they took the arms and ammunition, the thinking went, they could hold out for months. France might send help. The country round about would supply provisions. And at the same moment, their friends would rise upon the troops quartered here at Headford, and at Loughrea, and at Gort. That coordinated strike would make them, in the words of those who feared it, masters of the whole country. If all else failed, they could fall back into the highlands of Iar-Connaught and Joyce Country, inaccessible ground, and wait there in safety until a chance came to carry them off to France. The grounds for these fears were traced back to September 1745, when a homeward-bound East India Fleet of fourteen sail appeared on the coast and was briefly thought to be the Ferrol squadron. The behaviour of Catholics and their clergy in Galway on that occasion was called insolent, proof, to fearful eyes, of how ready they were to lay hold of any chance to overthrow the government. But none of it came to pass. The rulers of the country knew the Catholics had neither the power nor the will to give any disturbance. A distinguished senator declared in the House of Commons that not a man of them moved tongue, pen or sword to give the government the slightest uneasiness. They remained unmolested in Galway, and gave continual proof, the record says, of steady loyalty and sincere affection for the government.

43. Protestant and Catholic coalition in Galway volunteering

    Galway · city · Galway · 1791

    During the era of volunteering, wealthy Protestants and Catholics in Galway united, delivering a final blow to religious prejudices in that part of Ireland. This coalition led to the formation of the Amicable Literary Society in 1791.

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    The great coalition of all that was wealthy and respectable, both Protestant and Catholic, during the memorable era of volunteering, gave a final blow to the expiring religious prejudices in this part of Ireland : from that period the gentlemen of the town and county forgot all party distinctions, and have ever since cordially united in promoting every measure connected with the public welfare. On the 16th of November, 1791, the Amicable Literary Society was formed in Galway by some of the most respectable individuals of both persuasions, 10 for the purpose of acquiring and disseminating useful information on the important subjects of agriculture, commerce, science, &c. The members are numerous, and the mode of election renders them select and respectable. The funds are ample. The Society possesses a good library, and, with the English and Irish papers, receives several periodical publications. All religious and political disquisitions are rigidly prohibited; and if the Society has not entirely adhered to the objects of its original institution, yet it has not wholly departed from them. A noble superstructure might, however, be raised on this foundation.

    4.— The Mercantile Coffee Room

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 250

    As the companion tells it

    Galway saw an unusual coming together. During the era of volunteering, the wealthy and respectable of both Protestant and Catholic persuasion joined forces. This gave "a final blow to the expiring religious prejudices in this part of Ireland." From that point on, the gentlemen of the town and county forgot all party distinctions and cordially united in promoting every measure connected with the public welfare. On the 16th of November 1791, some of the most respectable individuals of both persuasions formed the Amicable Literary Society. Its purpose was acquiring and disseminating useful information on agriculture, commerce, and science. The members were numerous, and their mode of election kept them select. The funds were ample. The society possessed a good library and received English and Irish papers along with several periodical publications. All religious and political disquisitions were rigidly prohibited. If the society had not entirely adhered to its original objects, it had not wholly departed from them. "A noble superstructure might, however, be raised on this foundation."

44. Return of Catholic natives and clergy to Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1687

    During 1687, multitudes of former natives and their families returned to Galway, regaining their properties and freedom. The Catholic clergy also returned and reclaimed their places of worship, while Protestant inhabitants were forced to submit to the change.

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    During the year 1687, multitudes of the former natives and their families flocked to the town, and were restored to their properties and freedom. The Catholic clergy also returned, and reclaimed their respective places of worship, to the inexpressable mortification and grief of the Protestant inhabitants, who were quietly obliged to submit to this extraordinary change ©f affairs, without even daring to remonstrate against the encroachments which were daily making upon their rights. In the beginning of the year, Nagle, the king s attorney-general, issued a Quo-warranto against the corporation, upon which they entered into a resolution either to plead or surrender the charter, as the recorder, Sir Henry Lynch- should consider most

    8 Letter to Lord Dartmouth, 4th Sept. L686.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 124

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are travelling through a city that saw a remarkable reversal in 1687. That year, multitudes of former natives and their families flocked back to the town and were restored to their properties and freedom. The Catholic clergy returned as well and reclaimed their places of worship. The Protestant inhabitants were, as the source puts it, "quietly obliged to submit to this extraordinary change of affairs," without even daring to remonstrate against what they saw as encroachments on their rights. Early in the same year, the king's attorney-general, Nagle, issued a quo-warranto against the corporation, who resolved to either plead or surrender the charter, depending on what the recorder, Sir Henry Lynch, considered best.

45. Sir John D'Arcy burns and plunders Aran, 1334

    near Aran Islands · island or archipelago · Galway · 1334

    In 1334, Sir John D'Arcy, lord justice, sailed round the western coast of Ireland with a fleet of fifty-six sail and plundered and burned the islands of Arran. This occurred despite the long-standing alliance between the Mac Tiege O'Brien lords of the islands and the inhabitants of Galway town.

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    By the ancient records of Galway it appears that from a remote period the sept of Mac Tiege O'Brien, lords df these islands, were on terms of alliance and friendship with the inhabitants of the town.— Vide ante, pp. 52, 207.— This, however, did not save them from being plundered and burned by Sir John D'Arcy, lord justice, who sailed round the western coast of Ireland in the year 1334 with a fleet of fifty-six sail.- — Clynne's Annals. — In 1485 a monastery for Franciscans was built in the great island ; in which there was also founded a famous abbey of regular canons. In the sixteenth century the O'Briens were expelled from these islands by the O'Flaherties of Iar- Connaught ; information of which outrage having been sent to queen Elizabeth, a commission issued, under which it was found that they belonged to her majesty in right of her crown. She, accordingly, by letters patent dated 13th January, 1587 (instead of restoring them to the and his heirs, on condition that Tie should retain constantly on the islands twenty foot-soldiers of the English nation. — Rot. Pat. 31 Eliz. — On this occasion the cor-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 258

    As the companion tells it

    The Aran Islands lie off the western coast near your road. For generations, the sept of Mac Tiege O'Brien, lords of these islands, kept alliance and friendship with the people of Galway town. That old bond did not protect them. In 1334, Sir John D'Arcy, lord justice, sailed round the western coast of Ireland with a fleet of 56 sail and plundered and burned the islands of Arran. The man who held the king's justice turned his fleet on allies of Galway and left the islands wasted. A century and a half later, in 1485, a Franciscan monastery was built in the great island, alongside a famous abbey of regular canons. In the 16th century the O'Briens were expelled from these islands by the O'Flaherties of Iar-Connaught. Word of that seizure reached Queen Elizabeth, and a commission found the islands belonged to her in right of her crown. She granted them by letters patent dated 13th January 1587, on condition that 20 foot-soldiers of the English nation be kept constantly on the islands.

46. Surrender and demolition of Galway fort

    Galway · city · Galway · 1643

    On 20 June 1643, Captain Willoughby surrendered the fort of Galway and also the castle of Oranmore to the Confederates without Lord Clanricarde's consent. The fort was soon demolished by order of the supreme council, and Galway celebrated with public prayers and thanksgivings.

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    Rear-admiral Brooke, in the ship Providence, arrived in the bay in the beginning of June, with provisions and arms for the fort; but the batteries on the points of Rinmore and Rintinane hindered him from approaching. He endeavoured in the night to throw in supplies, but his long boats, being met by those of the town, were forces to retire. Captain Willoughby, being thus disappointed of succour, desired permission from colonel Burlce to deliver the fort to lord Clanricarde; but this, in the moment of success, he refused to agree to, on any other terms than that his lordship should take the oath of union or association, and not dispose of the place without the consent of the several persons under-named. 6 These terms the earl, with that consistency and loyalty which always marked his proceedings and character, totally rejected. Willoughby was then forced to treat for a surrender to the confederates. Articles having been accordingly agreed upon and signed,? he surrendered that important fortress on the 20th of

    6 The titular arch bishop of Tuam. lieutenant-general lord Mayo, colonel Bermingham, colonel Burke, lieutenantcolonel O'Flaherty, serjeant-major O'Shaughnessy, serjeant-major Burke, Richard Burke Fitz-John, Thomas Burke of Anbally, John Bermingham, Hubert Burke, captain Teige Kelly of Aughrim, captain Teige Kelly of Gallagh, captain Teige Kelly Fitz-William, captain Murrogh na-mart O'Flaherty, captain Anthony Brabazon captain TJlick Oarragh Burke, captain Ulick Burke of Castlehacket, captain Jonack M'Thomas, captain Edmond O'Flaherty, captain John Madden, captain John Browne, captain John Garvy, captain William Burke Fitz-John, captain William Burke of Cloghan, captain Walter Fitz-Morris, and captain Richard Betagh. — Clanricarde' s Memoirs.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard

    As the companion tells it

    Galway, in 1643, saw the surrender of its fort. In early June, Rear-admiral Brooke arrived in the bay aboard the ship Providence, carrying provisions and arms for the fort. Batteries on the points of Rinmore and Rintinane stopped him from approaching. He tried at night to throw in supplies, but his long boats were met by those of the town and forced to retire. Captain Willoughby, denied succour, asked Colonel Burke for permission to deliver the fort to Lord Clanricarde. Burke refused, in the moment of success, on any terms except that the earl should take the oath of union or association and not dispose of the place without the consent of several named persons. These included the titular archbishop of Tuam, lieutenant-general Lord Mayo, Colonel Bermingham, Colonel Burke, lieutenant-colonel O'Flaherty, serjeant-major O'Shaughnessy, serjeant-major Burke, and others, among them Captain Teige Kelly of Aughrim, Captain Teige Kelly of Gallagh, Captain Murrogh na-mart O'Flaherty, Captain Anthony Brabazon, Captain Ulick Burke of Castlehacket, and Captain Richard Betagh. Lord Clanricarde rejected these terms, with the consistency and loyalty that always marked his character. Willoughby was forced to treat for a surrender to the Confederates. Articles were agreed and signed, and on the 20th of June 1643 he surrendered the fortress and the castle of Oranmore without the earl's consent. The supreme council ordered the fort demolished, and the town celebrated with public prayers and thanksgivings.

47. Sweating sickness devastates Galway, 1543

    Galway · city · Galway · 1543

    In 1543 the sweating sickness broke out in Galway and raged with great violence, destroying multitudes of the natives and particularly the tradesmen of the town. The epidemic struck just as the hospital of St. Bridget was completed.

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    Leonard, lord Grey, the lord deputy of Ireland, having, about this time, received instructions from) the king to oblige the Irish, by indenture, to acknowledge his supremacy, and renounce the Pope, 29 departed from Dublin on the 17th of June, 1537, with an army, for the purpose of enforcing obedience these orders, and on the I 1th of July arrived in Galway. The corporation treated him and his soldiers gratis for seven days; and the mayor and aldermen, according to Sir Richard Cox, in his history, following the example of Limerick, took the oath of supremacy, and renounced the authority of the Pope. While his lordship remained in town, O'Flaherty, O'Madden and Mac Yeoris, (or Bermingham), came in, and made their submissions; but when the king received an account of what had taken place, he wrote to the lord deputy, that 'their oaths, submissions and indentures were not worth a farthing, since they did not give hostages. "30 About the same time, Finglas, chief baron of the Exchequer, recommended that half the fee-farm of Galway should be paid to the lord deputy for the time being, and that the other half should be applied for repairing the walls, and providing for its security. The town was accordingly put into a state of defence; the south quay, or new-tower gate, was built, and the walls were repaired and provided with guns : which latter circumstance gave rise to one of the articles of impeachment against the unfortunate lord Grey; for, having brought the artillery in a small vesel to Galway, he made the town pay 341. for the carriage. 31 The hospital of St. Bridget, in the east suburbs, was founded for the poor of the town, and each burgess was obliged, in his turn, to send a maid servant to collect alms every sabbath day for its support; a custom which was long afterwards observed. This charitable institution was fortunately completed in the year 1543, when the sweating sickness broke out, and raged with great violence, destroying multitudes of the natives, and particularly the tradesmen of the town.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 72

    As the companion tells it

    In 1543, the sweating sickness broke out in Galway and raged with great violence, destroying multitudes of the people and particularly the tradesmen of the town. The epidemic struck just as the hospital of St. Bridget, in the east suburbs, was completed. The hospital had been founded for the poor of the town, and each burgess was obliged, in his turn, to send a maid servant to collect alms every Sabbath day for its support, a custom long afterwards observed. The years before had been unsettled. In 1537, Lord Grey, the lord deputy of Ireland, departed Dublin on the 17th of June with an army, carrying instructions from the king to oblige the Irish, by indenture, to acknowledge his supremacy and renounce the Pope. He arrived in Galway on the 11th of July. The corporation treated him and his soldiers gratis for seven days. The mayor and aldermen, following the example of Limerick, took the oath of supremacy and renounced the authority of the Pope. While Grey remained in town, O'Flaherty, O'Madden, and Mac Yeoris, or Bermingham, came in and made their submissions. But the king wrote back that "their oaths, submissions and indentures were not worth a farthing, since they did not give hostages." About the same time, Finglas, chief baron of the Exchequer, recommended that half the fee-farm of Galway be paid to the lord deputy, and the other half applied to repairing the walls and providing for the town's security. The town was put into a state of defence. The south quay, or new-tower gate, was built, and the walls were repaired and provided with guns. That last circumstance gave rise to one of the articles of impeachment against Lord Grey, for having brought the artillery in a small vessel to Galway, he made the town pay for the carriage.

48. Walter de Burgo dies in Galway Castle, 1271

    Galway · city · Galway · 1271

    After Hugh O'Conor defeated Walter de Burgo in battle, Walter did not long survive; he died in the castle of Galway in 1271, leaving Richard, the Red Earl of Ulster, as his heir and successor.

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    died, leaving his son Hugh to succeed him. The latter on his accession, having asserted and supported his claim to the royal name and dignity, Walter de Burgo levied a body of forces, and marched against him. Hugh, on his side, made every preparation to meet the foe, and a battle took place, in which he was completely victorious. De Burgo did not long survive this defeat; he died in the castle of Galway, in 1271; leaving Richard, commonly called the Red Earl of Ulster, his heir and successor. 20a Hugh himself was afterwards slain, with 2000 men, by M'Dermott of Moylurg, who was another rival; and thenceforth, until the total destruction of the house of O'Conor in 1316, Connaught exhibited a horrid scene of blood and confusion.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 46

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Galway now. Back in 1271, this is where Walter de Burgo met his end. He had marched against Hugh O'Conor, who had asserted his claim to the royal name and dignity, but Hugh met him in battle and was completely victorious. De Burgo did not long survive that defeat. He died here in the castle of Galway, leaving Richard, commonly called the Red Earl of Ulster, as his heir and successor. Hugh himself was afterwards slain, with 2000 men, by M'Dermott of Moylurg, another rival, and from then until the total destruction of the house of O'Conor in 1316, Connaught was a scene of blood and confusion.

49. Conmacnemara, territory of O'Flaherty in west Connaught

    near Connemara · locality · Galway

    Conmacnemara, meaning the Chief Tribe on the great Sea, comprised the western coasts of County Galway. It was also called Conmacne-ira, Iar-Connaught, and Hy-Fiachrach. Its chiefs were the O'Flahertys, and it contained the present baronies of Moycullen and Ballinahinch.

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    fancy is not entirely confined to the regions of poetry.— Conmacnemara, or the Chief Tribe on the great Sea, comprehended the western coasts of the present county of Galway. It was also called Conmacne-ira, or the Chief Tribe of the West, and |ar-Connaugbt, that is, West Connaught ; likewise Hy lai'tagh, or the Western Country, the chiefs of which are denominated Hy Flaherty or O'Flaherty, that is, the Chief of the Nobles of the Western Country, and contained the present baronies of Moycullen and Ballinahinch.— Beauford.

    5 Vide O'Halloran's History of Ireland, Vol II. p. 238. Eid. Dub. 1803.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 36

    As the companion tells it

    You are passing through Connemara, the old territory the records call Conmacnemara, meaning the Chief Tribe on the great Sea. It covered the western coasts of County Galway, and was known too as Iar-Connaught and Hy-Fiachrach, the Western Country. Its chiefs were the O'Flahertys, the Chief of the Nobles of the Western Country. It contained the present baronies of Moycullen and Ballinahinch.

50. 1625 homicide recorded in Franciscan abbey records, Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1625

    Archbishop King's collections, held by the Dublin Society, contain a Latin entry from the records of the Franciscan abbey in Galway describing a horrific multiple murder committed on 20 August 1625, when a man named Johannes killed his uncle's wife, son, and a twelve-year-old boy with an axe and cast their bodies into the abbey garden.

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    Archbishop King's collections, in possession of the Dublin Society, vol. I. p. 313, contain the following entry of a horrid murder committed in Galway, apparently taken from the records of the Franciscan abbey there : — " Horrendum homicidium accidit hi villa Galwey, 20°. aug. ubit quidani fur, Johannes, media nocte. occidit avunculi sui, Gulielmi reogh pistoris, uxorem et filium et nepotem, puerulum 12 annorum, cum securi, quos u hortum nostrum, qui contiguus fuit, projecit. A°. 1625." — It has been suggested to the author, that the monument said to have been erected in 1624, to perpetuate Lynch's crime and punishment, (vide the miscellaneous plate.) possiblv related to the latter circumstance, which, though entered under the year 1625, m.ieht have occurred the year preceding. This, however, is mere supposition. — Few transactions of so old a date stand better authenticated than that concerning young Lynch ; for, independently of the general voice of tradition, it appears recorded in several ancient manuscripts, many of which have passed through the hands of the author.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 64

    As the companion tells it

    Galway holds an old horror in its records. In the collections of Archbishop King, now kept by the Dublin Society, there is a Latin entry taken from the records of the Franciscan abbey. It records a horrendous murder on 20 August 1625. A man called Johannes came in the middle of the night and killed his uncle's wife, his uncle's son, and a boy of twelve, with an axe. His uncle was Gulielmi Reogh, a baker. Johannes threw the bodies into the abbey garden, which lay next to the church. It has been suggested that a monument said to have been erected in 1624, to mark Lynch's crime and punishment, might have referred to this event. The entry was made under 1625, but the murder might have occurred the year before. The author calls this mere supposition.

51. Andrew French of Galway emigrates to Spain with his sons

    Galway · city · Galway · 1604

    In 1604, Andrew French, a native of Galway reduced in his circumstances, departed for Spain with his sons Edmond and Geoffrey. The sons rose to eminence there, with Geoffrey becoming governor of a fortress in the West Indies and admiral of the Spanish fleet.

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    In the year 1604, Andrew French, a native of Galway, (being reduced in his circumstances,) went with his sons, Edmond and Geoffrey, to Spain, where they soon rose to eminence : the latter was appointed governor of a considerable fortress in the West Indies, and his brother receiver of the king's plate; he was also honoured with the order of knighthood of Saint Jago, and finally became admiral of the Spanish fleet, which annually brought home the treasures firom the West Indies.

    His son Anthony was chosen One of his majesty's pages in ordinary, and, having commanded a troop of horse in the war against France, he was taken prisoner, but was soon after ransomed for a considerable sum by the king's orders. He died without issue, but left a sister honourably married in Spain. — Annals.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 173

    As the companion tells it

    In 1604, a Galway man named Andrew French, reduced in his circumstances, left for Spain with his sons Edmond and Geoffrey. They soon rose to eminence there. Geoffrey was appointed governor of a considerable fortress in the West Indies, and his brother Edmond became receiver of the king's plate. Edmond was also honoured with the order of knighthood of Saint Jago, and finally became admiral of the Spanish fleet, which annually brought home the treasures from the West Indies. His son Anthony was chosen one of his majesty's pages in ordinary. Having commanded a troop of horse in the war against France, he was taken prisoner, but was soon ransomed for a considerable sum by the king's orders. He died without issue, but left a sister honourably married in Spain.

52. Andrew Kirwan and the Penal Laws in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1736

    Andrew Kirwan, a Dominican friar in Galway, was summoned to testify against his friends under the penal laws, which would have deprived them of their properties. To avoid this cruel dilemma, he went into voluntary exile and died abroad in 1736.

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    ■ Andrew Kirwan, anothsr pious Dominican, after many zealous exertions in the cause of religion in Galway; was summoned to- discover against some of his friends, whereby, under the penal laws, they would have been deprived of their properties. To avoid this cruel dilemma he went into voluntai-y exile and died abroad, in the year 1736.

    Edmund de Burgo (Burke) , a Dominican friar began his studies in the convent of Galway, which he finished in Spain. He afterwards (1706) became principal regent of "the Irish school of his order in Louvain. He died in Rome about 1738. Fcr a list of his numerous writings _ see Harris, and also the learned and ingenious historian of this order, John O'Heyn. who was also a Dominican friar and, as. Harris thinks, a native of Galway.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 220

    As the companion tells it

    In Galway, under the penal laws, a Dominican friar named Andrew Kirwan faced a terrible choice. He had laboured zealously in the cause of religion in the town. Then he was summoned to testify against some of his own friends, and if he did, they would have been stripped of their properties. Rather than betray them or defy the summons, he went into voluntary exile and died abroad in 1736. Another Dominican friar, Edmund de Burgo, began his studies in the convent and finished them in Spain. In 1706 he became principal regent of the Irish school of his order in Louvain. He died in Rome around 1738.

53. Archbishop of Tuam attempts to annex Galway wardenship

    Galway · city · Galway

    The titular archbishop of Tuam devised a project to abolish the collegiate rights of Galway and annex the wardenship to the archiepiscopal see, making every exertion at Rome to accomplish this. The attempt was frustrated through the advocacy of Reverend Valentine Bodkin, agent of the lay-patrons and of the town.

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    The dissensions already detailed having excited the attention of the then titular archbishop of Tuam, they suggested to that able and vigilant prelate a project never until then thought of, and, consequently, at the time totally unexpected : this was nothing less than the total abolition of the collegiate rights and the annexation of the wardenship to the archiepiscopal see, to accomplish which every exertion was made at Rome; but, through the successful endeavours and advocacy of the reverend Valentine Bodkin, agent of the lay-patrons, and afterwards of the town, this bold and unprecedented attempt of the archbishop was frustrated. In the meantime, the amiable and conciliatory demeanour of warden Joyes by degrees reconciled matters within the town; and the angry feelings of jealousy and discontent, which had proceeded to considerable lengths amongst several of the inhabitants, gradually subsided. On the decease of this worthy man, in 1805, the reverend Valentine Bodkin, before alluded to, was elected warden. 12 During his incumbency he promoted the establishment

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 214

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this city was once the focus of a bold attempt at ecclesiastical takeover. The titular archbishop of Tuam, alerted by local dissensions, devised a project nobody had thought of before: to abolish the collegiate rights of Galway altogether and annex the wardenship to his own archiepiscopal see. He made every exertion at Rome to accomplish it. The plan was frustrated through the advocacy of Reverend Valentine Bodkin, agent of the lay-patrons and of the town. In the meantime, Warden Joyes, by his amiable and conciliatory demeanour, gradually reconciled matters within the town, and the angry feelings of jealousy and discontent that had grown among several inhabitants slowly subsided. On the death of this worthy man in 1805, Reverend Valentine Bodkin was elected warden. During his incumbency he promoted the establishment of further institutions in the town.

54. Bath establishment becomes Presentation convent

    Galway · city · Galway · 1798–1814

    A bath establishment in Galway closed in 1798 and was converted into an artillery barrack. After 1814 it became a convent for Presentation nuns, transitioning from a Protestant-founded edifice to a Catholic religious residence.

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    towels. The house in good repair, but wanted white-washing. This is a good situation for a bath." — From this period the establishment gradually declined, and it was finally closed in the year 1798. At that time the house was changed into an artillery barrack. It remained so occupied until 1814, soon after which it was converted into a convent for nuns of the presentation order : and thus, by a curious vicissitude, an edifice, erected a very short time before the commencement of the reign of Geo. III. for the purpose of promoting the Protestant religion in this country, became, before the close of the same reign, the residence of an order whose professed object is the very reverse, viz., that of extending and preserving the Catholic faith in Ireland.

    4. — Charity School. This excellent charity was founded about the year 1 790 by the late venerable warden Kirwan for the education of indigent boys, who are carefully instructed in reading, writing, arithmetic, and the principles of religion. It is chiefly supported by annual subscriptions and charity sermons; and the trustees have been latterly enabled to afford daily instruction to one hundred and fifty children, of whom one hundred are annually clothed, and twelve apprenticed to useful trades. The entire is conducted (under the patronage of the R.C. warden and vicars) by a president, vice-president, treasurer and secretary, to v/hose benevolent superintendence the town is indebted for many industrious tradesmen, who have been educated and apprenticed by this institution. 39

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 247

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, there is a building here with a strange history. A bath establishment on this site gradually declined and finally closed in 1798. At that point the house was changed into an artillery barrack, and it stayed that way until 1814. Soon after, it was converted into a convent for nuns of the Presentation order. The source calls this a curious vicissitude. The edifice had been erected a very short time before the commencement of the reign of George the Third for the purpose of promoting the Protestant religion in this country. Before the close of the same reign, it had become the residence of an order whose professed object was the very reverse, that of extending and preserving the Catholic faith in Ireland. A bath house, then a barrack, then a convent, all within a single reign.

55. Batteries at Rinmore and Rintinane block naval relief

    Rinmore · townland · Galway · 1643

    Rear-admiral Brooke arrived in Galway Bay with provisions and arms for the fort, but Confederate batteries on the points of Rinmore and Rintinane prevented his approach. His attempt to supply the fort by long boats at night was repulsed by the town's boats.

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    Rear-admiral Brooke, in the ship Providence, arrived in the bay in the beginning of June, with provisions and arms for the fort; but the batteries on the points of Rinmore and Rintinane hindered him from approaching. He endeavoured in the night to throw in supplies, but his long boats, being met by those of the town, were forces to retire. Captain Willoughby, being thus disappointed of succour, desired permission from colonel Burlce to deliver the fort to lord Clanricarde; but this, in the moment of success, he refused to agree to, on any other terms than that his lordship should take the oath of union or association, and not dispose of the place without the consent of the several persons under-named. 6 These terms the earl, with that consistency and loyalty which always marked his proceedings and character, totally rejected. Willoughby was then forced to treat for a surrender to the confederates. Articles having been accordingly agreed upon and signed,? he surrendered that important fortress on the 20th of

    6 The titular arch bishop of Tuam. lieutenant-general lord Mayo, colonel Bermingham, colonel Burke, lieutenantcolonel O'Flaherty, serjeant-major O'Shaughnessy, serjeant-major Burke, Richard Burke Fitz-John, Thomas Burke of Anbally, John Bermingham, Hubert Burke, captain Teige Kelly of Aughrim, captain Teige Kelly of Gallagh, captain Teige Kelly Fitz-William, captain Murrogh na-mart O'Flaherty, captain Anthony Brabazon captain TJlick Oarragh Burke, captain Ulick Burke of Castlehacket, captain Jonack M'Thomas, captain Edmond O'Flaherty, captain John Madden, captain John Browne, captain John Garvy, captain William Burke Fitz-John, captain William Burke of Cloghan, captain Walter Fitz-Morris, and captain Richard Betagh. — Clanricarde' s Memoirs.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 98

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in 1643, batteries on the points of Rinmore and Rintinane blocked a naval relief effort in Galway Bay. Rear-admiral Brooke arrived in the ship Providence at the beginning of June, carrying provisions and arms for the fort. But the Confederate batteries on those two points kept him from approaching. He tried under cover of night to throw in supplies by long boats. The town's boats met his, and forced his men to retire. Captain Willoughby, denied succour, asked Colonel Burke for leave to deliver the fort to Lord Clanricarde. Burke refused, in what the record calls the moment of success, unless the earl would take the oath of union or association and agree not to dispose of the place without the consent of the several persons named in the terms. Among them were the titular archbishop of Tuam, Lord Mayo, Colonel Bermingham, Colonel Burke, Lieutenant-Colonel O'Flaherty, Serjeant-Major O'Shaughnessy, and many captains and gentlemen of Burke, Kelly, O'Flaherty, Brabazon and other names. Lord Clanricarde rejected the terms entirely. Willoughby then had to treat for surrender to the Confederates. Articles were agreed and signed, and he surrendered that important fortress on the 20th.

56. Captain Constable's taunt from Galway fort rampart

    Galway · city · Galway

    Captain Constable, commander of a ship assisting the fort at Galway, stood on the rampart facing the town and loudly taunted the townsmen on the walls, declaring they would soon have a new king. This openly signaled the fort's defection to Parliament.

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    Willoughby. Even while it was depending, his soldiers made two sallies into the country; killing, in the first, by their own confession, a dozen of poor innocent people, men, women and children; and, in the other, pillaging all the remains of Sir Richard Blake's stock at Ardfry. But what most of all evinced the real principles and intentions of the inhabitants of the fort, was the conduct of captain Constable, commander of one of the ships that came to assist it. This man, standing on the rampart of the fort next the town, called with a loud voice twice over to the townsmen on the walls, ' A new king, you rogues and traitors; your king is run away; you shall have a new king shortly, you rogues." From all these and other circumstances, it was at length concluded that the fort was no longer in his majesty's obedience, but entirely at the disposal of the parliament.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 98

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are near the old fort whose defection changed the town's fortunes. Captain Constable commanded one of the ships that came to assist the fort. He stood on the rampart facing the town and called out twice to the townsmen on the walls,

57. Castlehacket estate and Cahermorris castle inquisition

    Castlehacket · townland · Galway · 1584–1686

    An inquisition of 1584 recorded that Ulic Mac Redmond Mac Moyler died in 1571 seized of the castles of Castlehackett and Cahire-Morris, but that the Hackett sept claimed Castlehackett with two adjoining quarters of land. John Kirwan, the only Catholic mayor of Galway after 1654, became the first proprietor of his name on the Castlehackett estate.

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    12. This mayor (the only Catholic that filled the office since 1654) was the first proprietor of his name, of the ancient estate of Castle-Hackett, which originally belonged to the Hacketj, family. — Vide page 16, note. — By inquisition taken 29th Jan. 1584, it was' found, "that Ulic Mac Redmond Mac Moyler died on the 22nd Sept. 1571, seized, of the castles of Castle- Hackett and Cahire-Morris ; but that Mc. Hackett, the chief of his name, and others of the sept of the Hacketts, claim the aforesaid castle of Castle-Hackett, with the two quarters of land adjoining." — Rem. Off. — This ancient sept was also driven to Mayo after 1641, and is now nearly extinct.

    13. In the summer of 1688, a vast swarm of insects, of the Scarabeus or beetle kind, appeared on the S.W. coast of Galway, not far from the town : they were brought by a S.W. wind, and proceeded towards Headford, where, and in the adjacent country,

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 181

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, the Castlehacket estate and Cahermorris castle once stood. An inquisition taken on the 29th of January 1584 found that Ulic Mac Redmond Mac Moyler died on the 22nd of September 1571, seized of the castles of Castle-Hackett and Cahire-Morris. But Mc Hackett, chief of his name, and others of the Hackett sept, claimed the castle of Castle-Hackett with the two quarters of land adjoining. That ancient sept was driven to Mayo after 1641 and is now nearly extinct. John Kirwan, the only Catholic to fill the office of mayor of Galway since 1654, became the first proprietor of his name on the Castle-Hackett estate, which originally belonged to the Hackett family.

58. Catholic clergy elect warden and vicars under James II charter

    Galway · city · Galway · 1688–1689

    On the accession of James II, the Catholic clergy assembled in Galway and the corporation received a new charter granting power to elect a warden and eight vicars. Father Henry Browne was chosen warden and seven vicars were elected in August 1688, leading to a dispute with Archbishop Vesey over church and college possessions.

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    On the accession of James II. the Catholic clergy again assembled in the town, 29 and on the 29th March, 1688, the then corporation informed archbishop Vesey that his majesty had been pleased to grant them a charter containing, amongst other privileges, a power to elect a warden and eight vicars, and granting the rights and revenues belonging to the wardenship and college, and others in his grace's possession, which they requested he would forthwith ordei to be delivered to them, except the church and cemetery, during the pleasure of government. 30 On the 1st of August following, they proceeded, under the charter, to the election of the clergy, when father Henry Browne was chosen warden for that year; and fathers Henry Joice, Michael Lynch, James Fallon, John Bodkin. Jerome Martyn, Nicholas Nolan and Thomas Lynch were elected vicars. Doctor Vesey having resisted the claims of the corporation, they immediately resolved that all acts which gave or allowed him any right, title, interest or possession in and to the wardenship, by any way of election, reception, allowance, or otherwise, should be annulled and vacated. His grace having also retained the church, the newly-elected warden and vicars, in July, 1689, petitioned the king for leave to take possession of it, together with the college-house,

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 204

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in the city where the Catholic clergy gathered on the accession of James II. On the 29th of March 1688, the corporation informed Archbishop Vesey that the king had granted them a charter allowing the election of a warden and eight vicars, and granting rights and revenues belonging to the wardenship and college, which they asked him to deliver up, except the church and cemetery. On the 1st of August, Father Henry Browne was chosen warden, and Fathers Henry Joice, Michael Lynch, James Fallon, John Bodkin, Jerome Martyn, Nicholas Nolan and Thomas Lynch were elected vicars. Archbishop Vesey resisted the claims, and the corporation resolved that all acts giving him any right to the wardenship should be annulled. He also retained the church, and in July 1689, the new warden and vicars petitioned the king for leave to take possession of it together with the college house.

59. Catholics admitted to Galway corporation

    Galway · city · Galway · 1686

    In June 1686, directions were given to admit Roman Catholic merchants in Galway to the freedom of the corporation without the oath of supremacy. By the end of the year, 160 Catholics were sworn in and obtained a complete ascendency in the corporation.

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    Galway once more revived, and they ventured more freely to approach the town. The king soon after having directed the earl of Clarendon, the lord lieutenant, to provide for the admission of Catholics to the freedom of corporations, colonel Russell, the mayor, on the 25th of June, 1686, received directions from his lordship to admit to their freedom such of the Roman Catholic merchants and dealers as should desire it, without tendering the oath of supremacy, or any other oaths except those of allegiance and of freemen, at the same time nominating nineteen of the principal persons to be immediately admitted free, and sworn of the common council. This communication was received with dismay. The council assembled; and, after some debate, the mayor was requested to communicate their readiness to admit these, and all other the natives and inhabitants of the town, to their freedom; but as, by the rules of the corporation, they were bound and sworn to maintain the ancient customs, one of which was, that the common council should be elected only on the Monday after Michaelmas day, they should be obliged to postpone that part of his directions until then; but that, on the 2nd of July following, those to be admitted free would be proposed in tholsel. In answer to this, the lord Lieutenant observed, that in extraordinary cases they were not bound to any particular day to admit members of the council, and peremptorily directed immediate obedience to his former orders. ^ Accordingly, in the beginning of July, one hundred and sixty Catholics, of the ancient names and natives, were sworn, and before the end of the year several others were admitted, by which time they obtained a complete ascendency in the corporation. 6

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 124

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are moving through a town that saw a striking shift of power in 1686. In June of that year, the lord lieutenant, the earl of Clarendon, directed Colonel Russell, the mayor, to admit Roman Catholic merchants and dealers to the freedom of the corporation without tendering the oath of supremacy, only the oaths of allegiance and of freemen. He also nominated nineteen principal persons to be sworn of the common council. The council received this with dismay. They replied that they were willing to admit the natives and inhabitants to their freedom, but said corporation rules bound them to elect common council only on the Monday after Michaelmas, so they would postpone that part until then and propose those to be admitted free on the 2nd of July. Clarendon answered that in extraordinary cases they were not bound to any particular day, and peremptorily directed immediate obedience. Accordingly, in the beginning of July, 160 Catholics of the ancient names and natives were sworn in, and before the end of the year several more were admitted, by which time they had obtained a complete ascendency in the corporation.

60. Claddagh women's dress and the ribbon custom

    Claddagh · electoral division · Galway

    Among the Claddagh community, women who could not speak English were not allowed to wear ribbons in their caps, a custom prevalent throughout the west of Ireland. This distinction allowed strangers to identify English-speaking women at fairs and markets.

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    trimmed with fine a-ibbon, a rich calico or stuff gown, with the red flannel bodygown, however, occasionally worn over it, and a silk handkerchief on the head. The dress of the young women differs but little from that of their mothers, except with the addition of a fine muslin or cambric cap, trimmed with the richest lace. They have been seldom known to wear ribbons in their head-dress here, though esteemed such indispensable ornaments in other places. The cause of this omission is rather curious : In the west of Ireland it is a custom, rather general amongst the lower orders, that females who cannot speak English are not allowed to wear ribbons in their caps. Hence a stranger, on entering a fair or market town, may, in general, by this mark, distinguish those women who can speak English from those who cannot. Amongst the Claddagh community this distinction seems to have been scrupulously adhered to

    Religion.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 240

    As the companion tells it

    Around Claddagh, the young women dressed much like their mothers, with one difference: a fine muslin or cambric cap, trimmed with the richest lace. They were seldom known to wear ribbons in their head-dress, though ribbons were thought indispensable ornaments in other places. The reason is curious. Across the west of Ireland, among the lower orders, it was a rather general custom that females who could not speak English were not allowed to wear ribbons in their caps. So a stranger, entering a fair or market town, could by this mark distinguish the women who could speak English from those who could not. Among the Claddagh community this distinction seems to have been scrupulously adhered to. A ribbon in a cap was not just decoration. It was a sign that the woman wearing it had English, and the community observed the rule strictly.