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

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1. Galway citizens protest breakdown of justice (1600)

   Galway · city · Galway · 1600

   In August 1600, an assembly of Galway citizens complained that the corporation suffered daily losses for want of justice in the province, blaming obstinate country gentlemen and the mayor's practice of granting protection to wrongdoers who came into the town.

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   The disorderly state of the province, and the vice and licentiousness of the people, about this time, were most lamentable. In the year 1600, they were described in the following forcible terms in an assembly of the citizens of Galway, which was convened for the purpose of counteracting the effects of those evils' "August 1. This day informacon being made and moved in open courte, by certain of the brethern, of the ymminent loss generally all the corporation doe daily sustain for want of the administration of justice in the counties and shires of the province abroad, by means of the obstinacie, wilful disobedience, lyinge and deceit of the country gentlemen and inhabitants, that by no means there can no remedy be had against them for the recovery of anie debt due, muche less of any roberies or spoiles; neverthelesse, upon the repair of them to this town of Galway, are so dayly supported and upholden by the mayor and his associats, that noe justice can be ministered upon them; the mayor ordinarily granting to every of them, so comeing, his worde and protection to retourne safe without any molestation; the country inhabitants, voide of all charitie, litle regardinge their duty to God, thereby making against the goods of the poor merchants. In order to remedy these disorders, it was resolved that no such protection as that complained of should thenceforth be granted by the mayor, or any other authority, to any of the inhabitants of the country.

   At length arrived at the close of the sixteenth century, the reader now

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 83

   As the companion tells it

   Galway in the year 1600 was a town where justice had broken down, and the citizens said so in forcible terms. The disorderly state of the province and the vice and licentiousness of the people were most lamentable. In August of that year, an assembly of the citizens was convened to counteract the effects of those evils. In open court, certain of the brethren reported that the corporation suffered daily losses for want of the administration of justice in the counties and shires of the province. They blamed the obstinacy and wilful disobedience, the lying and deceit of the country gentlemen and inhabitants, saying no remedy could be had against them for the recovery of any debt, much less for any robberies or spoils. Yet when those same country people came into the town of Galway, the mayor and his associates supported and upheld them. The mayor ordinarily granted each one his word and protection to return safe without any molestation, so that no justice could be ministered upon them. The citizens called the country inhabitants void of all charity, little regarding their duty to God, thereby making against the goods of the poor merchants. To remedy these disorders, it was resolved that no such protection as that complained of should thenceforth be granted by the mayor, or any other authority, to any of the inhabitants of the country.

2. Galway fishermen granted market provisioning priority

   Galway · city · Galway · 1591–1596

   Galway by-laws prohibited fishermen from taking up plough, spade, or scythe work that would bar them from fishing, and required that they and their families be reasonably served before others with necessary food provisions from the market, so they could better earn their living by fishing.

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   That no sea-men or sea-man, or, as I would say, fisher-men or nisher-man, do take in hande either the plowgbe, spade, or teithe, that would barr them from fyshinge, bothe to serve themselves and the comon wealthe with fyshe, in consideration whereof that the said fisshers and their wiffs and famylie be reasonable served before others with all necessarie sustenunc and foode of provition as cometh to the market, whereby they mought be the bettre hable to erne their said livinges that wayj and have the better hope.

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

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 172

   As the companion tells it

   Galway in the 1590s had rules for its fishermen. The town's by-laws said that no fisherman should take up the plough, the spade, or the scythe, if it would bar him from fishing. The town wanted its fishermen free to serve themselves and the common wealth with fish. In return, the fishermen and their wives and families were to be reasonably served before others with all necessary sustenance and food of provision that came to the market. This was so they might be better able to earn their living that way, and have the better hope. The by-laws also ordered, according to the ancient statutes, that running water be kept clean. The little gate ditch water running through Nicholas Linche's mill, and the water running into the gutt out through Martine's mill, were to be always kept clean, within the walls and without.

3. Galway inhabitants vote address favouring legislative union

   Galway · city · Galway · 1799

   In February 1799, the inhabitants of Galway voted an address supporting the legislative union between Ireland and Britain, arguing that a Protestant parliament and Catholic people produced religious dissension and civil discord. The earl of Clanricarde and the archbishop of Tuam were among the earliest and most successful advocates for the measure in County Galway.

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   human opinion, and of the happy change that had taken place in the public mind during that period. The question of legislative union between the two countries soon after began to agitate the kingdom; and the promises made by Mr. Pitt and lord Cornwallis, to the Catholics of Ireland, secured many of the inhabitants of Galway in its favor. An address was accordingly voted by them in February, 1799, in which the necessity of that measure was maintained with remarkable energy of expression. In the constitution of the empire, as it at present stands," say they, "we discover the seeds^ of party animosity and national jealousy : A Protestant parliament and Catholic people ! hence religious dissension and civil discord : Two legislators in the same empire ! hence legal prejudices and commercial rivalry. By the settlement of 1782, the Irish parliament acquired the right of independent legislation — a right equally — unsafe to exercise and not to exercise. To exercise it would have been to endanger the unanimity, and thereby to hazard the division, of the empire; while, by declining to exercise the right, the Irish parliament brought upon itself the imputation of abject submission to the British legislature. This imputation begot contempt, that contempt discontent, and that discontent rebellion. For this radical defect in the polity of the empire we can see but one remedy, and that remedy is an union." Though the earliest and most succssful efforts were made in its favour by the earl of Clanricarde, the archbishop of Tuam, and others in the county of Galway, it was, notwithstanding, the first part of Ireland that was proclaimed to be in a state of disturbance; and as several persons openly asserted that such a measure was totally unnecessary at the time, they consequently concluded that it was resorted to for no other purpose than that of carrying the question of union by military coercion. However that may be, it is certain that the good people of Galway have been disappointed in their reliance on ministerial promises, and that, were the question to be agitated again, many of them would think and act in a very different manner on the occasion.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 158

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, this is a city that in February 1799 voted an address supporting the legislative union between Ireland and Britain. The inhabitants argued that a Protestant parliament and a Catholic people produced religious dissension and civil discord, and that two legislatures in one empire produced legal prejudice and commercial rivalry. They held that the settlement of 1782, which gave the Irish parliament the right of independent legislation, was equally unsafe to exercise and not to exercise. To exercise it would endanger the unanimity of the empire, while declining to exercise it brought the Irish parliament the imputation of submission to the British legislature. That imputation, they said, begot contempt, that contempt discontent, and that discontent rebellion. For this radical defect they saw but one remedy, and that remedy was union. The promises made by Mr. Pitt and Lord Cornwallis to the Catholics of Ireland had secured many of the inhabitants in favour of the measure. The earl of Clanricarde and the archbishop of Tuam were among the earliest and most successful advocates for the union in the county of Galway. Yet Galway was, notwithstanding, the first part of Ireland to be proclaimed in a state of disturbance. Several persons openly asserted that the measure was unnecessary and that it was resorted to only to carry the question of union by military coercion. The people of Galway were disappointed in their reliance on ministerial promises, and were the question to be agitated again, many of them would think and act in a very different manner.

4. Galway mayor's demesne lands at Rinmore seized

   Rinmore · townland · Galway

   The mayor's demesne lands at Rinmore in the franchises of Galway were disposed of by the commissioners to the use of the garrison horse without paying any rent, depriving him of his chief subsistence contrary to the articles of surrender.

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   ' ' The said mayor doth further offer unto your honors, that his demesne lands in Rinmore, in the franchises of Gallway, were disposed of by the commissioners to the use of the horse of the garrison without answering any rent therefore, this yeare and a halfe back, being his chief subsistence, contrary to their articles, wherein hee desires your honors relief.

   " That petitioners being an ancient colonie of English, planted in this nook of the country, have been, by the crown of England, endowed with charters, grants and imunities, as also with the chartercustom of the said towne held by the said corporation without interruption, time beyond the memory of man, and to them expressly secured by their articles made upon the surrender of the said towne, yet the commissioners permit them not to enjoy samej they therefore pray your honors order for the quiet enjoyment thereof without molestation." — Council Book.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 110

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, the mayor of Galway lost his chief means of living. His demesne lands at Rinmore, in the franchises of Galway, were disposed of by the commissioners to the use of the garrison horse, without any rent being paid. This had gone on for a year and a half. The mayor called these lands his chief subsistence, and he petitioned for relief, saying the disposal was contrary to the articles of surrender. The petitioners described themselves as an ancient colony of English, planted in this nook of the country, endowed by the crown of England with charters, grants, and immunities, and holding the charter custom of the town through the corporation without interruption, time beyond the memory of man. All of this was expressly secured to them by their articles made upon the surrender of the town. Yet the commissioners would not permit them to enjoy these rights. They prayed for an order for the quiet enjoyment of their liberties, without molestation.

5. Galway officials fined for parliamentary non-compliance

   Galway · city · Galway · 1435–1450

   Between the 1430s and 1450, Galway's chief magistrate, constable, sovereign and provost were repeatedly fined for failing to attend parliament and for not returning the king's writs. Fines included 100s for non-attendance at council, £10 for not returning a writ to the Dublin parliament, and £40 for not returning a writ to the Drogheda parliament of 1450.

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   8th year of the king's reign, they neither attended by themselves nor by proxy, nor returned the king's writ to them at that time directed. The same roll contains an entry of another fine of £10 against them, because they did not return the king's writ to the parliament held at Dublin, on Friday next after the feast of the Holy Trinity, in the 9th year of the king; and in another record (Rot. Pat. 28 Hen. VI.) the sovereign and provost of the town are fined £40 for not returning the king's writ to them, directed to the Parliament, held at Drogheda on Tuesday next after the feast of St. Mark, 1450. — Of the names of the members comprising the several parliaments of Ireland before the year 1559 there is no account extant; but, from that period to the present, the following is a correct list of the successive representatives of the town of Galway :

   1559. Jonoke Lynce, of Galway. Peter Lynce, of same.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 190

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, this is a town whose officials once refused to answer to parliament. In the 8th year of the king's reign, they neither attended by themselves nor by proxy, nor returned the king's writ directed to them. The same roll records another fine of £10 against them, because they did not return the king's writ to the parliament held at Dublin, on Friday next after the feast of the Holy Trinity, in the 9th year of the king. A later record shows the sovereign and provost of the town fined £40 for not returning the king's writ directed to them for the Parliament held at Drogheda on Tuesday next after the feast of St. Mark, 1450. Of the names of the members comprising the several parliaments of Ireland before the year 1559 there is no account extant. From that period onward, the representatives of the town of Galway are recorded, beginning in 1559 with Jonoke Lynce and Peter Lynce, both of Galway.

6. Galway's commercial prosperity and subsequent decline

   Galway · city · Galway

   Galway was regarded as the most distinguished town in Ireland for wealth and trade, built on centuries of well-regulated commerce and the enterprising spirit of its inhabitants. The surrounding country remained immersed in poverty while the town prospered through distant trade with France, Spain and England.

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   Before entering into a detail of the momentous transactions which immediately follow, it may not be uninteresting to the reader to dwell a little on the state of the town at this period. By the preceding facts, gleaned, with much labor, from the generally imperfect materials which, at this distance, have been spared by the hand of time, it appears that the town of Galway was esteemed the most distinguished of any in the kingdom for wealth and trade, and that it ranked amongst the most considerable for strength and population. The causes which gradually led to the extraordinary change, from its original state of comparative insignificance, appear to have been its well regulated and increasing commerce for the three preceding centuries; its advantageouo situation; but, above all, the enterprizing spirit and tried integrity of its inhabitants, which appeared on many occasions, and which are satisfactorily testified by various records. The extent of its commerce, and that at very remote periods of time, has been proved by indubitable authority; and its excellent situation needs only inspection to be convinced of the advantages which must have been derived from it. The town, though early incorporated and governed principally by its merchants, was surrounded by a poor country, and persecuted natives, (with whom "the settlers," as they were called, were in a continual state of hostility,) and could consequently derive but few materials for export, or means of industry, from its local situation. The inhabitants, therefore, were obliged to have recourse to distant parts of the kingdom: and by bcoming, in fact, the home-importers of the produce of France. Spain and England, and by exchanging the commodities of one country for those of another, the town gradually arrived to its present state of prosperity, while the country in its neighbourhood was immersed in poverty, wretchedness and vice. This opulence, however, was now at its height; henceforth it continued to decline, and gradually sunk almost to nothing, in v/hich condition it continues at the present day. The reader will not be here detained by an investigation of the causes of this decay; it will be reserved for another place, in order to proceed without further interruption to the following chapter.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 92

   As the companion tells it

   The road is bringing you through Galway, a city that was once the most distinguished town in the kingdom for wealth and trade. At its height, Galway ranked among the most considerable towns for strength and population, and its prosperity was built over the three preceding centuries of well-regulated and increasing commerce, an advantageous situation, and above all the enterprising spirit and tried integrity of its inhabitants, which appeared on many occasions and are testified by various records. The extent of its commerce at very remote periods has been proved by indubitable authority, and its excellent situation needs only inspection to be convinced of the advantages derived from it. The town was early incorporated and governed principally by its merchants, but it stood surrounded by a poor country and persecuted natives, with whom the settlers, as they were called, were in a continual state of hostility. It could consequently derive but few materials for export or means of industry from its local situation. The inhabitants were therefore obliged to have recourse to distant parts of the kingdom, and by becoming the home-importers of the produce of France, Spain and England, and by exchanging the commodities of one country for those of another, the town gradually arrived at its prosperity, while the country in its neighbourhood was immersed in poverty, wretchedness and vice. This opulence, however, was now at its height. Henceforth it continued to decline, and gradually sunk almost to nothing, in which condition it continues at the present day.

7. Galway steeple to be raised and bells recast

   Galway · city · Galway · 1683

   In 1683 the corporation ordered that the cost of recasting the old bells, adding two new bells, and raising the steeple of Galway town be defrayed from public corporation revenue. Council members were also fined for leaving meetings without the mayor's permission.

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   That any of the council who shall depart without taking leave from Mr. Mayor shall forfeit a cobb. Also that the charge of new casting the old bells and two new bells, and raising the steeple of this town, be defrayed out of the public revenue of thfc corporation.

   c c

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 180

   As the companion tells it

   Galway, in 1683, the corporation ordered that the old bells be recast and two new bells added, and the town steeple raised, all paid for from public corporation revenue. That same year, council members were fined a cobb for leaving meetings without the mayor's permission.

8. Galway town wall building restrictions

   Galway · city · Galway · 1521

   A 1521 Galway by-law prohibited building straw or thatch houses within fourteen feet of the town walls for fear of fire, requiring slate roofs instead. Specific structures mentioned include the great gate, the new tower, the little gates, and the stone houses of Martin Lynch, John Lynch, and John Cayre.

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   That no man shall build, make, or repayre any strawe or tache house for feare of fyre, no nigher the towno walles then fourteen feet unless they be covered with sklatts, and that to be the heads of the stretts, as to say, the both sids of the great gato and bo'.h skis of tho new towre and both skis of the littell gates, except both the great stone housses, as Martin and John Lynch is housses and also as John Cayre ys huusse to bo excepted, vf they cover the same with sklatts.

   1522.

   Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 165

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Galway, the town walls here carry an old fire precaution. In 1521 a by-law forbade anyone from building or repairing a straw or thatch house within fourteen feet of the walls unless it was covered with slate. The rule named the heads of the streets, both sides of the great gate, the new tower, and the little gates. The great stone houses of Martin Lynch, John Lynch, and John Cayre were exempted, provided they too were roofed with slate.

9. Galway town walls repaired and south quay gate built

   Galway · city · Galway · 1537–1538

   Following a recommendation by Finglas, chief baron of the Exchequer, Galway was put into a state of defence. The south quay, or new-tower gate, was built, the walls were repaired and provided with guns. Lord Grey brought the artillery by vessel and made the town pay £34 for carriage, which later became an article of impeachment against him.

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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 1537, Galway was put into a state of defence. Finglas, the chief baron of the Exchequer, had recommended that half the fee-farm of the town should go to the lord deputy, and the other half should be spent repairing the walls and securing the place. The work followed: the south quay, or new-tower gate, was built, and the walls were repaired and fitted with guns. The guns arrived by way of Leonard, Lord Grey, the lord deputy of Ireland. He had departed Dublin on the 17th of June, 1537, with an army, carrying instructions from the king to oblige the Irish to acknowledge his supremacy and renounce the Pope. He arrived in Galway on the 11th of July. The corporation kept him and his soldiers for seven days at no charge. The mayor and aldermen, following the example of Limerick, took the oath of supremacy and renounced the authority of the Pope. While Grey remained, O'Flaherty, O'Madden, and Mac Yeoris, or Bermingham, came in and made their submissions. But when the king heard what had passed, he wrote to the lord deputy that their oaths, submissions, and indentures were not worth a farthing, since they did not give hostages. Grey brought the artillery to Galway in a small vessel and made the town pay 34 pounds for the carriage. That charge became one of the articles of impeachment against him. The hospital of St. Bridget was founded in the east suburbs for the poor of the town. Each burgess, in turn, had to send a maid servant to collect alms every sabbath day for its support, a custom long observed. It was completed in 1543, when the sweating sickness broke out, raging with great violence, destroying multitudes of the natives, and particularly the tradesmen.

10. Great fire devastates Galway, 1473

    Galway · city · Galway · 1473

    On Friday, 2 June 1473, a terrible conflagration recorded in the Annals of Connaught and the Four Masters nearly destroyed Galway and caused incalculable damage to the inhabitants. The industrious and opulent community quickly repaired the damage and materially improved the town, which soon ranked among the most considerable places in the kingdom.

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    The annals of Connaught, and those of the four masters, record a terrible conflagration which took place in Galway, on Friday, the 2d day of June, 1473; by which the town was nearly destroyed, and incalculable damage sustained by the inhabitants. , This heavy misfortune was, however, soon overcome by the exertions of an industrious and already opulent community. During the long reign of Henry VI. and that of his successor, Edw. IV. several families settled in the town, among whom those of Deane, Fjont, Ffrench, Morris, Butler, Fallon, Nolan, Port, Come or Quin, and Fully, are particularly noticed. At the period to which our narrative is now arrived, it was esteemed one of the most populous towns in Ireland : trade kept pace with the increase of population, and a spirit of industry pervaded the minds of the people; but their energies were now more particularly called forth, by the melancholy accident which had just taken place, and the damages occasioned by the fire were not only quickly repaired, but the town itself was materially improved, and soon after took its rank amongst the most considerable places in the kingdom. The relation of its affairs having been thus far continued through periods of which almost every local record and monument has been long and irrecoverably iost, an era now approaches, from which the memory of its transactions was better preserved; and, consequently, the future helps, for the elucidation of its history, will be found much more abundant and satisfactory, as in the following chapter.

    17 Rot. Pat. 4 Edw. IV. p. 11. m. 29. Tur. Lnnd.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 60

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Galway, the city holds a story of fire and recovery. On Friday, 2 June 1473, a terrible conflagration recorded in the Annals of Connaught and the Four Masters nearly destroyed the town and caused incalculable damage to the inhabitants. The community was industrious and already opulent, and they quickly repaired the damage, even materially improving the town. During the reigns of Henry VI and Edward IV, families such as the Deane, Ffrench, Morris, Butler, Fallon, Nolan, and Quin had settled there, and Galway was esteemed one of the most populous towns in Ireland, with trade keeping pace with its growing population. After the fire, the town soon took its rank among the most considerable places in the kingdom.

11. Henry VIII grants Lynch family nets and mill on Galway river

    Galway · city · Galway · 1521

    In 1521, Henry VIII granted licence to Jenet Lynch and Anthony Lynch to have three nets on the river of Galway between the bridge and the sea, and to build a water-mill and public oven. One net was near a great rock called Carrig-a-phreaghane, later covered over when the pier-head was built.

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    ary to the Franciscan friars. — King 312. —On the 13th Nov., 1521, Henry VIII. granted licence to Jenet Lynch, widow, and Anthony Lynch, merchant, to have three nets upon the river of Gal way, between the bridge and the sea, one near the great rock (this rock was aftewards called Carrig-a-phreaghane, or the Crow'srock, and was covered over when the pierhead was built) ; another near Panrise and the third near Porter's-place, to take salmon and other fish as was customary, and to build one water-mill upon the said water wherever they should think proper ; and also to build a public oven in the said town, to bake bread as well for strangers as for the inhabitants, to hold during the king's pleasure, at the yearly rent of 10s — Fiant 25 Hen. VIII.— They afterwards petitioned the king, stating that they had, at great labour and expense, made up the said three nets, and erected the watermill and public oven ; whereupon by a further grant, in the 24th year of his reign, the entire was granted to them and their heirs, by the service of 13s. 4d. yearly. Henceforth the Lynch family gradually acquired the principal part of the fishings of the river which continued in their possession for a considerable period. — Others of the inhabitants, however, sometimes obtaittied similar grants. On Oct. 2, 1532, licence was granted to Richard Martin "to have three places upon the river, between the bridge and the sea, for three nets to take salmon and other fish, at 6s. _8d. yearly. Thomas Martin had a similar licence to have five places for six nets. — In 1536, Marcus Lynch Fitz-Stephen had a similar licence; and on the 26th Sept., 1538, Roger Challoner, one of the ushers ol the king's chamber, had a grant of the water-mill,, called Martyn's mill, and the fishings of the river (except the three places demised to Thomas Martyn) escheated to the crown, for forty years, at 20s. yearly.— Rot. Pat. 30 Hen. VIII.

    The resident families of Lynch and D'Arcy afterwards became possessed of the fishery, which they enjoyed until 1652. By an adjudication of Cromwell's commis-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 234

    As the companion tells it

    In 1521, Henry VIII granted licence to Jenet Lynch, a widow, and Anthony Lynch, a merchant, to have three nets on the river of Galway between the bridge and the sea. One net was to be near a great rock afterwards called Carrig-a-phreaghane, the Crow's rock, which was covered over when the pier-head was built. Another was near Panrise, and the third near Porter's-place, to take salmon and other fish as was customary. They were also licensed to build one water-mill on that water wherever they thought proper, and a public oven in the town, to bake bread for strangers and inhabitants alike, to hold during the king's pleasure, at a yearly rent of 10 shillings. They afterwards petitioned the king, stating they had at great labour and expense made up the three nets and erected the water-mill and public oven. By a further grant, in the 24th year of Henry's reign, the entire was granted to them and their heirs, at a yearly service of 13 shillings and 4 pence. The Lynch family gradually acquired the principal part of the fishings of the river, which continued in their possession for a considerable period. Others sometimes obtained similar grants. In 1532, Richard Martin had licence for three places for three nets at 6 shillings and 8 pence yearly. Thomas Martin had a similar licence for five places and six nets. In 1536, Marcus Lynch Fitz-Stephen had a similar licence. In 1538, Roger Challoner, one of the ushers of the king's chamber, had a grant of the water-mill, called Martyn's mill, and the fishings of the river, except the three places demised to Thomas Martyn, escheated to the crown, for 40 years, at 20 shillings yearly. The resident families of Lynch and D'Arcy afterwards became possessed of the fishery, which they enjoyed until 1652.

12. Inscription over Galway's west gate against the O'Flaherties

    Galway · city · Galway

    A singular inscription formerly visible over the west gate of Galway read 'From the ferocious O'Flaherties, Good Lord deliver us,' reflecting the town's defensive posture toward the neighbouring native Irish sept.

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    14 In their proper places, throughout this work, will be found several curious rules and bye laws of the old corporation, prohibiting all intercourse with the native Irish. In 1518, they ordered that none of the inhabitants should admit any_ of the Burkes. M 'Williams, Kellys or any other sept into their houses. "That neither 0, ne Mae, shoulde strutte ne swagger, throughe the streetes of Gallway ;" and the following singular inscription, was formerly to be seen over the west gate ; "From the ferocious O'Flaherties "Good Lord deliver us."

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 24

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in a town that once kept its gates barred against its own neighbours. In 1518 the corporation ordered that no inhabitant should admit any of the Burkes, McWilliams, Kellys, or any other sept into their houses. Over the west gate there was an inscription that read, "From the ferocious O'Flaherties, Good Lord deliver us." The old records put it plainly: neither O' nor Mac should strut or swagger through the streets of Galway.

13. Ireton's threatening letter from Clarecastle

    near Clarecastle · population centre · Clare · 1651

    General Henry Ireton wrote to Thomas Preston from Clarecastle on 7 November 1651, threatening that if his summons was suppressed, someone's head would pay for the resulting trouble when the parliamentary forces reached Galway.

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    mischief or danger nearer to their doores. This, if you shall fairly communicate as 'tis directed, and especially if you be found compliant to the substance and effect -of it (waving the frivolous impertinencys of a souldier's honor or humor rather,) you may partake in the benefit of such conditions as your quality renders you capable of. If you smother or suppress it, you may guess whose head shall pay for the trouble or mischief that shall follow, if God enable us to reach it, as 1 doubt not but he will, because he is, and we have eminently found him still to be, a righteous judge pleadinge to the quarrell of the innocent, and a severe avenger of their blood against those that spill it or lightly regard it, as well as a merciful father and faithful master to those that seek and serve him. — Sir, your servant. — Clare-castle, 7th November, 1651. — H. Ireton."

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 106

    As the companion tells it

    In 1651, Clarecastle was where General Henry Ireton sat down to write a threatening letter to Thomas Preston. Ireton had a summons he wanted delivered. He told Preston that if he communicated it fairly and complied with its substance, he could partake in conditions suited to his quality. But if Preston smothered or suppressed it, someone's head would pay for the trouble that followed. Ireton expected God would enable the parliamentary forces to reach Galway. He called God a righteous judge pleading the cause of the innocent and a severe avenger of their blood against those who spilled it or lightly regarded it, as well as a merciful father to those who seek and serve him. He dismissed what he called the frivolous impertinences of a soldier's honor or humor. The letter is dated 7 November 1651 and signed, your servant, Ireton.

14. Irish Forces Land on Aran Islands

    near Aran Islands · island or archipelago · Galway · 1650–1651

    In December 1650, routed Irish forces landed 700 men on the Aran Islands using boats from Iar-Connacht and Inishbofin. They were subsequently attacked by parliamentary forces shipped from Galway Bay in January 1651.

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    On the decline of the royal authority in Ireland in 1651, the marquis of Clanricarde resolved to fortify these islands as' places of refuge in cases of extremity. Accordingly, two hundred musketeers, with officers and a gunner, under the command of Sir Robert Lynch, were sent thither. — Vide ante, pa. 127, note. — ■ The fort of Ardkyn, in the great island, was soon after repaired and furnished with cannon which enabled it to hold out against the parliamentary forces near a year after the surrender of Galway. In the beginning of December, 1650, the Irish, routed in every other quarter, landed seven hundred men here, by the help of boats, from Iar-Connaught and Innis-Bcphin ; but on the 9th of January following, 1300 foot, with a battering piece, were shipped in the bay of Galway to attack them, and, at the same time, 600 foot more marched from the town to Iar-Connaught, to be thence conveyed to their assistance if necessary. On the 15th the islands surrendered on the following "Articles concluded between major James Harrison and captain William Draper, on behalf of commissory-general Reynolds, commander in chief of the parliamentary forces in the isles of Arran, and captain John Blackwall and captain Brien Kelly, commissioners,, appointed by colonel Oliver Synnot, commander of the fort of Ardkyn, for the surrender of the said fort. — 1. It is concluded and agreed, that all the officers and soldiers, both belonging to sea and land, shall have quarters, as also all others, the clergymen, and all other persons within the fort. — 2. That they shall have six weeks for their transportation into Spain, or any other place in amity with the state of England ; and

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 259

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you near the Aran Islands, these waters hold a story from the end of 1650. In December of that year, Irish forces, routed in every other quarter, landed 700 men on the islands with the help of boats from Iar-Connaught and Inishbofin. The Marquis of Clanricarde had resolved to fortify the islands as places of refuge in cases of extremity, and 200 musketeers with officers and a gunner, under Sir Robert Lynch, had already been sent there. The fort of Ardkyn on the great island was repaired and furnished with cannon, and it held out against the parliamentary forces near a year after the surrender of Galway. On the 9th of January 1651, 1300 foot soldiers with a battering piece were shipped from Galway Bay to attack the men on the islands. At the same time, 600 more foot marched from the town to Iar-Connaught, to be conveyed to their assistance if necessary. Six days later, on the 15th of January, the islands surrendered. The articles of surrender were concluded between Major James Harrison and Captain William Draper, on behalf of Commissory-General Reynolds, commander in chief of the parliamentary forces in the isles of Arran, and Captain John Blackwall and Captain Brien Kelly, commissioners appointed by Colonel Oliver Synnot, commander of the fort of Ardkyn. The terms granted quarters to all officers and soldiers, both sea and land, the clergymen, and all other persons within the fort. They were given six weeks for their transportation into Spain, or any other place in amity with the state of England.

15. Jacobite Robert Martin of Dangan could raise 800 men near Galway

    near Dangan · street · Galway

    A Jacobite who escaped from battle was seen in the neighbourhood of Galway at the house of his kinsman Robert Martin of Dangan. It was stated that Martin could bring at least eight hundred men to the gates of the town within twenty-four hours, men described as absolutely devoted to him.

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    Jacobite, he escaped from that battle, was also seen in the neighbourhood, and at the house of his kinsman, Robert Martin, of Dangan, who, it was stated, 1 'could 4 in twenty-four hours bring at least eight hundred men to the gates of the town, as absolutely devoted to him as the Camerons to Lochiel."— Orig. MS.

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

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 148

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Dangan, near Galway, a Jacobite who had escaped from battle was seen at the house of his kinsman Robert Martin of Dangan. It was stated that Martin could, in 24 hours, bring at least 800 men to the gates of the town, men described as "absolutely devoted to him" as the Camerons were to Lochiel.

16. John Lynch left Galway on surrender to parliament army

    Galway · city · Galway · 1652

    On the surrender of Galway to the parliament army in 1652, John Lynch, archdeacon of Tuam, went to France where he published several learned works defending Ireland against its detractors.

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    approved of the violent measures of the warden, Walter Lynch ; and, in 1647, opposed the nuncio, Rinuncini, who was then in Galway. He afterwards became archdeacon of Tuam, and, on the surrender of Galway to the parliament army in }fc52, he went to France, where publishe 1 under the name of " Eudoxius Alithia"- logus," " Alitbinologia, sive veredica responsio ad invectivam, mendaciis, fallaciis, calumniis et imposturis foetam, in plurimos antistites proceres, et omnis Ordnns Hibernos A.R.P.R.F.C. Congregationi de propaganda fide, A.D. 1659, exhibitam 1664, 4 to. — Supplementum alithinolo gise, quod partes invectivam in Hibernos cusse in alithinologia non oppugnata everfcit,'' 1667, 4to. But the work by which he principally acquired fame was published under the feigned name of Gravianus Lucius, and is entitled "Cambrensis Eversus, seu potius Historica fides, in rebus Hibernicis, Giraldo, Cambrensi abrogata. In quo, plerasque justi historici dotes desiderari plerosque nsevos inesse ostendit Gratianus Lucius Hibernus ; qui etiam aliquot res memorabiles Hibernicas veteris et novae memorise passim e re nata m < oyen inseruit. Impress. An. lQt"2, folio — in this work the errors and falsehoods of Gerald Barry, or Cambrensis, concerning Ireland, are detected and ably refuted. He wrote also " Pii Antistitis Icon, sive de vita et morta rev. D. Francisci Kerovani, Alladensis Episcopi, Mac lovii, 1669, 8vo," and became himself titular bishop of Kilhila before his death. A late biographer states he was traditionally informed that our author " was a man of the greatest benevolence, amiable manners, and virtuous dispositions, and that the whole course of his life was distinguished by a prominent and unaltered feature — the love of humanity and his country."

    3. RODERICK 0' FLAHERTY. This learned Irish antiquary was born about the year 1630, at Park, near Galway, part of the ancient inheritance of

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 255

    As the companion tells it

    Galway is the city the road takes you through or near, and in 1652 it surrendered to the parliament army. John Lynch, archdeacon of Tuam, left for France. He had approved of the violent measures of the warden, Walter Lynch, and in 1647 he had opposed the nuncio Rinuncini, who was then in Galway. After the surrender, France became his refuge and his workshop. There he published several learned works. One, in 1659, was a defence of Irish bishops, nobles, and all orders of Ireland against an invective full of lies, fallacies, calumnies, and impostures, exhibited to the Congregation de Propaganda Fide. He followed it with a supplement in 1667. Both appeared under the feigned name Eudoxius Alithinologus. The work that chiefly made his name carried another feigned name, Gravianus Lucius. It was called Cambrensis Eversus, and in it the errors and falsehoods of Gerald Barry, or Cambrensis, concerning Ireland were detected and ably refuted. He wrote also a life of the Reverend Francis Kirwan, Bishop of Killala, and before his death he became titular bishop of Killala himself. A biographer recorded a tradition about him, that he was a man of the greatest benevolence, amiable manners, and virtuous dispositions, and that the whole course of his life was distinguished by a prominent and unaltered feature: the love of humanity and his country.

17. Lady Jacob visits Galway; famous school with hundreds of scholars

    Galway · city · Galway · 1608

    In 1608, Lady Jacob, daughter of Ulick Lynch of Hampton, came to Galway to obtain her pedigree and was received with distinction. At this time a famous school kept by Alexander Lynch in the town contained several hundred scholars.

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    In 1608, Lady Jacob, daughter of TJlick Lynch, of Hampton, came to Galway to obtain her pedigree. Her suite was superb, and she was received with every mark of distinction. At this time, a famous school was kept in the town by one Alexander Lynch, which contained several hundred scholars. — Annals,

    i

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 173

    As the companion tells it

    In 1608, Galway saw a notable visitor. Lady Jacob, daughter of Ulick Lynch of Hampton, came to obtain her pedigree. Her suite was superb, and she was received with every mark of distinction. At that time, a famous school was kept in the town by one Alexander Lynch, containing several hundred scholars.

18. Legal dispute over Galway old fortifications

    Galway · city · Galway · 1670–1800

    The old fortifications of Galway were contested in the courts of law, claimed both by the representatives of alderman Eyre (who obtained a lease from the corporation in 1670) and by the Board of Ordnance on behalf of the Crown. The Board granted a lease of the walls and fosse to James Skerrett in 1792, but the question remained legally undetermined, deterring building on those lands.

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    19 The old fortifications of Galway have been recently contended for in the courts of law, as often as they formerly were at the mouth of the cannon. They are claimed on one hand by the representatives of alderman Eyre, who, in 1670, (Vide note," page 145 ante.) obtained a leas© from the corporation^ which was afterwards renewed on 19th May, 1712, and on the other by his majesty's board of ordnance^ in right of the crown. This board accordingly, on 9th July, 1792, gran-

    ted a lease of the town walls and surrounding fosse, sixty-three feet wide, to James Skerrett for one hundred years, at 201. yearly rent, under which several thousand pounds have been, since 1800, expended in valuable improvements. But although the question has been often legally discussed, it still remains undetermined — a circumstance which has. in some degree, proved injurious to the town by deterring individuals from erecting buildings on those extensive concerns.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 158

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, the old town walls and fosse were once fought over in the courts as fiercely as they were once fought over with cannon. The representatives of alderman Eyre claimed them under a lease from the corporation obtained in 1670 and renewed on the 19th of May 1712. The Board of Ordnance claimed the same walls and fosse in right of the Crown, and on the 9th of July 1792 granted a lease of them to James Skerrett for 100 years at 20 pounds yearly rent, the fosse being 63 feet wide. Several thousand pounds were spent on improvements after 1800, but the legal question between the two claims was never settled. That uncertainty kept people from building on those lands, which hurt the town.

19. Lord Forbes fleet arrives in Galway Bay

    near Galway Bay · bay · Clare · 1642

    On 7 August 1642, a squadron of seventeen ships under Lord Forbes sailed into Galway Bay and anchored in the road, causing considerable agitation in the town. Boats were observed passing between the ships and the fort.

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    Such was the situation of affairs about Gal way, on the 7th of August, 1642, when considerable agitation and suspence were occasioned in the town by the appearance of a squadron of seventeen ships, on the morning of that day, sailing into the bay. They came to anchor in the road, and boats were soon observed to pass and re-pass between them and the fort. This was the fleet of Alexander, lord Forbes, who was appointed by parliament, (without his majesty's concurrence,) lieutenant-general of the additional forces raised by the London adventurers, to waste the coasts of Ireland in a privateering way. His first exploit, after his arrival, sufficiently indicated his intentions, and put the town on its guard against him. He landed a body of men on the county Clare side of the bay, and burned the houses and wasted the lands of Daniel and Turlogh O'Brien, the only two gentlemen in

    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

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 96

    As the companion tells it

    Galway Bay, in the summer of 1642. On the morning of the 7th of August, a squadron of 17 ships sailed into the bay, and the town fell into considerable agitation and suspense. They came to anchor in the road, and boats were soon observed to pass and re-pass between the ships and the fort. This was the fleet of Alexander, Lord Forbes, appointed by parliament, without his majesty's concurrence, lieutenant-general of the additional forces raised by the London adventurers, to waste the coasts of Ireland in a privateering way. His first exploit after his arrival put the town on its guard against him. He landed a body of men on the county Clare side of the bay, and burned the houses and wasted the lands of Daniel and Turlogh O'Brien, the only two gentlemen in that quarter who had declared for the parliament.

20. Massacre at Shrule during the Irish rebellion

    Shrule · townland · Galway · 1641

    At the commencement of the Irish rebellion in 1641, a massacre occurred at Shrule. Following this event, the town of Galway revolted and laid siege to the local fort before submitting to the Earl of Clanricarde.

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    Opulence of Galway at the commencement of the Irish rebellion, 23rd October, 1641 — Report of Sir Francis Willoughby, governor of St. Augustine's fort, near Galway, on that event — The care of the earl of Clanricarde to secure the peace of the country — Loyal resolutions of the town — Disputes with the fort — Massacre at Shruel — Revolt of the town, and siege of the fort — The fort relieved, and the town submits to the earl of Clanricarde — Violent proceedings of the governor of the fort — He bombards the town — Lord Forbes arrives with a fleet in the bay — Besieges the town — His barbarous conduct — The fort besieged, taken and demolished — The town declares in favor of the Irish, and against the parliament — Perists in loyalty to the king — Several fortifications built — Tumults in the town, occasioned by the pope's nuncio on the question of the cessation — Compelled at length to proclaim it — The nuncio departs from Galway — The town advances money to the state — Grateful acknowledgments of Charles II. — Dreadful plague in the town — Marquis of Ormond takes shipping in Galway, and leaves the kingdom— Negociations with the duke of Lorrain — His ambassador arrives in Galway — The town besieged by the parliamentary forces under Sir Charles Coote— Its strenuous defence and final surrender — The plague rages — Cruel proceedings against the inhabitants — Licentiousness of

    CONTENTS. xiii

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 6

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Shrule, in 1641, a massacre took place as the Irish rebellion began. The rebellion broke out on the 23rd of October, 1641. Sir Francis Willoughby was governor of St. Augustine's fort, near Galway, and he reported on what was happening. The Earl of Clanricarde worked to secure the peace of the country, and the town of Galway passed loyal resolutions at first. But disputes arose between the town and the fort, and then came the massacre at Shrule. After that, the town of Galway revolted and laid siege to the fort. The fort was relieved, and the town submitted to the Earl of Clanricarde. But the governor of the fort then turned violent. He bombarded the town. Lord Forbes arrived with a fleet in the bay and besieged Galway himself, and his conduct was described as barbarous. The fort was besieged, taken, and demolished. The town declared in favour of the Irish and against the parliament, but persisted in loyalty to the king. Several fortifications were built. Tumults broke out in the town over the pope's nuncio and the question of a cessation of arms, until the town was compelled to proclaim it. The nuncio departed from Galway.

21. Mayor reports on Augustinian friary in Back Street, 1731

    Back Street · street · Cork · 1731

    In 1731 the mayor of Galway reported that sheriffs searched the reputed friary in Back Street, called the Augustinian friary, finding a chapel with forms but no altar or pictures, and seven chambers with nine beds, though no friars were discovered.

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

    HISTORY OF GAL WAY.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard

    As the companion tells it

    An Augustinian friary, the reputed friary in Back Street, was searched in 1731. The mayor reported that the sheriffs found a chapel with forms, but the altar and pictures had been taken down. Within the friary there were seven chambers and nine beds, where they believed the friars used to lie, but they could not find or discover any of the said friars. The sheriffs believed the house had been converted to a friary many years before the reign of King George I.

22. Mutton Island fortified to encourage shipping at Galway

    Mutton Island · townland · Galway · 1702

    In 1702, Lieutenant-Colonel Nicholson was provided lodgings at the corporation's expense for his services in fortifying Mutton Island, which was expected to encourage shipping to resort to the port of Galway.

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    For the services of lieutenant-colonel Nicholson in fortifying Mutton Island, "which will encourage shipping to resort to this port," he was provided with lodgings at the expense of the corporation.

    1705.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 183

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Mutton Island, efforts were made in 1702 to fortify the island, which was expected to encourage shipping to resort to the port of Galway. Lieutenant-Colonel Nicholson carried out the work, and for his services he was provided with lodgings at the expense of the corporation.

23. Non-tribes form rival Catholic corporation at the Tholsel, Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1791

    After the death of Warden Kirwan in 1791, the non-tribe inhabitants of Galway, excluded from voting in warden elections by the ancient tribal families, assembled at the tholsel and formed their own rival Catholic corporation. They elected their own officers including Walter Burke as mayor.

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    [Signed by the mayor, recorder, bailiffs or sheriffs, town-clerk, and some of the most respectable peers (pares, or equals, supposed to mean freemen or common council-men), for the time being, of the Catholic corporation.] 10. Immediately after the decease of warden Kirwan in 1791, the non-tribes, pursuant to public advertisement, assembled at the tholsel and formed a Catholic corporation of their own. Walter Burke was nominated mayor, James Murke (recorder, Walter Flaherty and Robert Power sheriffs, and John E. Burke townclerk. They then gave notice that they would, on 10th September, 1791, in the parish chapel, proceed to the election of a warden in place of the deceased ; on which day, being denied admittance there, they proceeded to the Augustinian chapel, and the revered Denis Mannion, one of the vicars, was elected warden, and the (reverend Andrew Kenny, vicar in his place ; but these gentlemen, not considering the proceedings valid without the sanction of the holy see, declined the honours thus conferred on them. The non-

    268

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 212

    As the companion tells it

    Galway, in 1791, was a town where the old tribal families held the right to vote in warden elections, and the non-tribe inhabitants were shut out. When Warden Kirwan died that year, the non-tribes answered a public advertisement and assembled at the tholsel. There they formed a Catholic corporation of their own. Walter Burke was nominated mayor. James Murke became recorder. Walter Flaherty and Robert Power were named sheriffs, and John E. Burke took the office of town clerk. They gave notice that on the 10th of September, 1791, they would proceed to the election of a warden in place of the deceased, in the parish chapel. On that day they were denied admittance. They went instead to the Augustinian chapel, where the Reverend Denis Mannion, one of the vicars, was elected warden, and the Reverend Andrew Kenny was made vicar in his place. But these men, not considering the proceedings valid without the sanction of the holy see, declined the honours thus conferred on them.

24. Nuncio Rinuccini departs from Galway after forced surrender

    Galway · city · Galway · 1648–1649

    Galway was forced to surrender and put under articles to proclaim a cessation, pay money, and renounce the papal nuncio. Finding his measures frustrated, the nuncio took shipping at Galway on 23 February and departed the kingdom.

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    forced, about the 4th of September following to surrender. They were then put under articles to proclaim the cessation, pay a considerable sum of money, and renounce the nuncio, who, thus finding all his measures frustrated, took shipping at Galway, on the 23d of February following, and departed from the kingdom.

    The English and Irish armies being now united, under the command of the marquis of Ormonde, Galway advanced him five thousand pounds^ on the security of the customs of the town, in aid of his intended campaign against the parliamentary forces. Upon this occasion his lordship knighted Walter Blake, the mayor. The melancholy news of the king's violent death soon after reached the town, and was received with every manifestation of sorrow. His successor, Charles II. was immediately proclaimed with the greatest solemnity. The mayor had afterwards the satisfaction of receiving the following letter from his majesty.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 103

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in a city that was forced to surrender around the 4th of September 1648 and put under articles to proclaim a cessation, pay a considerable sum of money, and renounce the papal nuncio. Finding all his measures frustrated, the nuncio took shipping at Galway on 23 February 1649 and departed the kingdom. The English and Irish armies then united under the marquis of Ormonde, and Galway advanced him 5000 pounds on the security of the town's customs to aid his campaign against parliamentary forces. Ormonde knighted Walter Blake, the mayor, on that occasion. The melancholy news of the king's violent death soon reached the town and was received with every manifestation of sorrow. Charles II was immediately proclaimed with the greatest solemnity, and the mayor afterwards received a letter from his majesty.

25. Oath of Supremacy refused at Galway Tholsel

    Galway · city · Galway · 1631

    In September 1631, Sir Thomas Rotheram entered the tholsel of Galway and produced a privy council letter ordering magistrates to take the oath of supremacy. The mayor and sheriffs elect declined to take the oath and were replaced by other officers.

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    4. On 1st August, Oliver Martin was chosen mayor, and Andrew Browne Fitz- Oliver and Edward French Fit-Patrick, sheriffs ; but Sir Thomas Rotheram having, on 12th September following, come into the thostle, and produced a letter from the privy council, ordering that the magistrates should take the oath of supremacy, the mayor and sheriffs elect requested until the 27th for consideration, upon which they declined to take the oath

    and the officers above named were accordingly chosen. It was then ordered that .the mayor should have the former stipend of £100 a year for his salary.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 176

    As the companion tells it

    Galway, in September 1631. On the first of August, Oliver Martin was chosen mayor, and Andrew Browne Fitz-Oliver and Edward French Fitz-Patrick sheriffs. But on the twelfth of September, Sir Thomas Rotheram came into the tholsel and produced a letter from the privy council ordering that the magistrates take the oath of supremacy. The mayor and sheriffs elect asked until the 27th for consideration, after which they declined to take the oath. Other officers were chosen in their place, and the mayor's salary was set at the former stipend of £100 a year.

26. Origin of the 'Tribes of Galway' designation

    Galway · city · Galway

    The term 'Tribes of Galway' was originally coined by Cromwell's forces as a term of reproach against the townspeople for their loyalty to one another during times of persecution. The families later adopted the expression as a mark of distinction from their oppressors.

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    The new colonies, here alluded to, consisted of several families, whose descendants, are known to this day, under the general appellation of the . tribes of Galway," an expression, first invented by Cromwell's forces, as a term of reproach against the natives of the town, for their singular friendship and attachment to each other during the time of their unparalleled troubles and persecutions, but which, the latter afterwards adopted, as an honorable mark of distinction between themselves and those cruel

    13 Several of these names are still to be pointed out their former consequence, found here, viz. Athy, Ffarty, Ffrihin. Particular mention is made of Thomas Killery, Kerwick, (if. as supposed, it bo Ap-en-Rise. and his wife, Eleanor, before the same as Kirwan,) and "White; but the year 1280. Stephen Penrise was the remainder are long since extinct. provost of the town in 1313, he was after-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 13

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in the city that gave us the phrase the Tribes of Galway. It was Cromwell's forces who first used the expression, as a term of reproach against the townspeople for their friendship and attachment to each other during times of persecution. The families later adopted it as an honourable mark of distinction between themselves and those who had used it to mock them.

27. Patrick Darcy interred at Kilconnel, County Galway

    Kilconnell · parish · Galway · 1668

    After serving on the supreme council of the confederate Catholics at Kilkenny in 1647, Patrick Darcy died in Dublin in 1668. He was buried at Kilconnel in County Galway.

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    This gentleman was horn in Galway in 1598, and was the second son of James Riveagh Darcy, who was mayor in 1603. He was educated in the profession of the law, and became a leading member of the parliament assembled at Dublin in 1640, when the Catholics had a joint share with the Protestants in the legislation pf the kingdom. On 9th June, 1641, he delivered (by order of the house of commons) hb celebrated argument before a committee of the lords in the castle of Dublin, on questions touching the independence of Ireland, the illegality of appeals to England, the castle chamber proceedings, etc., propounded to tne judges. Printed 1643, 4to. He afterwards became one of the supreme council of the confederate Catholics of Ireland, assembled at Kilkenny, in 1647 ; and, after sharing in all the political vicissitudes of those eventful times, he died in Dublin in 1668, and was interred at Kilconnel, in the county of Galway. — Vide Harris's Ware, et ante, p. 11.

    The author of this work has in his possession, in manuscript, an able, but ineffectual, remonstrance, written by Mr. Darcy, against the partial proceedings towards the ancient inhabitants of the town and county of the town of Galway, fiter the Restoration.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 255

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through the parish of Kilconnell, it is worth knowing that Patrick Darcy lies buried here. He was born in Galway in 1598, the second son of James Riveagh Darcy, who served as mayor in 1603. He was educated in the profession of the law, and became a leading member of the parliament assembled at Dublin in 1640, when the Catholics had a joint share with the Protestants in the legislation of the kingdom. On 9 June 1641, by order of the house of commons, he delivered his celebrated argument before a committee of the lords in the castle of Dublin, on questions touching the independence of Ireland, the illegality of appeals to England, and the castle chamber proceedings propounded to the judges. It was printed in 1643. He afterwards became one of the supreme council of the confederate Catholics of Ireland, assembled at Kilkenny, in 1647. After sharing in all the political vicissitudes of those eventful times, he died in Dublin in 1668, and was interred here at Kilconnel, in the county of Galway. A manuscript remonstrance, written by him against the partial proceedings towards the ancient inhabitants of the town and county of the town of Galway after the Restoration, survives.

28. Presentation Convent at former Charter School

    Galway · city · Galway · 1819

    In 1819 the Presentation sisters moved into the former charter school in the west suburbs of Galway, held on a 60-year lease at £80 annual rent. The building was thoroughly repaired and fitted with convenient schoolrooms, and was esteemed one of the best foundations of its kind in the kingdom. Thirty female orphan children were dieted, lodged, clothed and educated there, with upwards of 300 day scholars also instructed.

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    This useful order of religious females, whose principal object is the education of poor female children, was established here on the 27th of October, 1815, under the patronage and protection of the very reverend Warden Ffrench. They commenced their christian avocations in a house in Kirwan's-lane, in November, 1815; but opened on a more extended scale in a large house at Meyrick-square, in March following. Here they continued until 1819, when they removed to a spacious, elegant and well-situated building (the former charter school , which they hold by lease for 60 years, at £80 annual rent), in the west suburbs of the town. The entire of this extensive concern has been thoroughly repaired and fitted up with convenient schoolrooms : it is surrounded by a high wall, and is esteemed one of the best circumstanced foundations of the kind in the kingdom. Each lady, on admission to this order, pays a sum of £500 towards the general fund, which is now considered sufficient, with the aid of annual sermons and occasional donations, to support this valuable establishment. From the charitable labours of these exemplary ladies many benefits have already accrued, and are thereafter likely to accrue, to society, by the moral, religious and usefully domestic education of so many of its most helpless and most generally neglected members. At present thirty female orphan children are dieted, lodged, clothed and educated; and upwards of three hundred female day scholars are instructed in useful needlework, reading, writing, the common rules of arithmetic, and the principles of religion. It is to many a subject of regret that the pious ladies of our other convents had not heretofore (if at all compatible with their rules) adopted, even on a limited scale, this humane plan. How many hundreds, by imbibing virtuous principles and acquiring ideas of industry, might, by their exertions, have been rescued from those courses of idleness and vice to which the poor unprotected female is, alas ! but too often liable. — For this valuable institution the memorable dying words of the celebrated Venetian for the liberties of his country cannot be too frequently repeated. 39

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 225

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, on the west side of the town, there is a building that was once a charter school and is now the Presentation Convent. The Presentation sisters came to Galway on the 27th of October 1815, under the patronage of the Very Reverend Warden Ffrench. They began their work in a house in Kirwan's-lane that November, then moved to a larger house at Meyrick-square the following March. In 1819 they took up this former charter school, holding it on a lease of 60 years at £80 annual rent. The whole building was thoroughly repaired and fitted with convenient schoolrooms. It stands surrounded by a high wall, and was esteemed one of the best foundations of its kind in the kingdom. Each lady, on admission to the order, pays £500 toward the general fund, which with annual sermons and occasional donations is considered enough to support the establishment. At present, thirty female orphan children are dieted, lodged, clothed and educated there. Upwards of 300 female day scholars are also instructed, in useful needlework, reading, writing, the common rules of arithmetic, and the principles of religion. The author notes it is a subject of regret that the ladies of other convents had not adopted this humane plan, by which hundreds might have been rescued from idleness and vice.

29. Priest James French detained without trial in Galway gaol

    Galway · city · Galway · 1714

    In 1714, Robert Blakeney, mayor of Galway, informed the secretary of state that James French, a Catholic clergyman, had been held in gaol for high treason after returning from transportation, but could not be tried for want of a Protestant jury of freeholders. The legislature intervened to remove such obstructions, keeping close watch on Galway as it contained the most considerable Catholic community in the kingdom.

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    strong detachment was also sent to the islands of Arran; but on the 15th of April following, colonel John Eyre, the Governor, received directions from government "to admit the popish inhabitants of Galway to return to their dwellings, and to continue in the town, as formerly, and to suffer the markets to be kept and held there, as before tthe late directions were given to the contrary, all apprehensions of any invasion from the Pretender being quite over. "24 From thence they remained undisturbed until the 22nd of March, 1711, when the mayor, in a despatch from the secretary of state, concerning some French prisoners then in his custody, was ordered "to cause the popish priests in Galway to be secured;" and in a subsequent despatch to set those prisoners at liberty, he received their excellencies thanks for his good services in respect of the popish clergy, accompanied by an assurance that they were extremely well pleased with his zeal and management therein, and expressing their hopes that he would continue his "endeavours to banish the priests, those enemies to our constitution, out of that town, and cause those you have apprehended to be prosecuted at law with the utmost rigor." That these denunciations were not unattendd to, may be safely concluded : each succeeding mayor, as his best recommendation to the notice of government, exerted himself to surpass his predecessors in persecuting these defenceless objects of political wrath. Obstacles, however, sometimes occurred to defeat or delay those relentless proceedings. An instance of this nature took place in the year 1714; when Robert Blakeney, who was thn mayor, informed the secretary of state, "that one James French, a regular popish clergyman, had lain in gaol a long time, committed for high treason for returning from beyond seas after being transported, but that he could not be tried for want of a Protestant jury of freeholders." Obstructions of this nature, however, were soon after removed by the interference of the legislature,, which appears to have constantly kept a vigilant eye upon this town, as containing the most considerable and respectable Catholic community of any other then in the kingdom.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 136

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, this city drew the legislature's watchful eye in the early 1700s. It held the most considerable and respectable Catholic community in the kingdom, and the authorities knew it. On the 15th of April, Colonel John Eyre, the Governor, received directions from government to admit the Catholic inhabitants of Galway to return to their dwellings and continue in the town as formerly, all apprehensions of any invasion from the Pretender being quite over. From thence they remained undisturbed until the 22nd of March, 1711, when the mayor, in a despatch from the secretary of state, was ordered to cause the Catholic priests in Galway to be secured. He received their excellencies' thanks for his good services, and an assurance that they were well pleased with his zeal, expressing their hopes that he would continue his endeavours to banish the priests out of that town, and cause those apprehended to be prosecuted at law with the utmost rigor. Each succeeding mayor exerted himself to surpass his predecessors in persecuting these defenceless objects of political wrath. Obstacles sometimes occurred. In 1714, Robert Blakeney, then mayor, informed the secretary of state that James French, a regular Catholic clergyman, had lain in gaol a long time, committed for high treason for returning from beyond seas after being transported. He could not be tried for want of a Protestant jury of freeholders. The legislature soon removed obstructions of this nature, keeping a vigilant eye on Galway as containing the most considerable Catholic community in the kingdom.

30. Queen Elizabeth grants Annaghdown Priory to Galway clergy

    Annaghdown · townland · Galway · 1578

    In 1578, Queen Elizabeth granted the dissolved monastery or priory of Annaghdown in County Galway to the warden and vicars of Galway. This was done to support the newly established clergy after the Catholic clergy had alienated much of the college's possessions.

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    Upon the accession of queen Elizabeth, and the consequent alteration in religion, the Catholic clergy of the town foresaw that a change was not far distant, and they accordingly alienated and granted, in perpetuity, to their friends and 'kindred, the greatest part of the possessions of the college, 18 insomuch that, when it was afterwards seized into the queen's hands, and transferred to the reformed clergy, they were found considerably reduced. The same apprehensions of change also prevented the wardens and vicars from paying the necessary attention to the exterior parishes, in consequence of which they were gradually usurped by the diocesan rectors. 19 The church being at length surrendered to the established clergy, whatever remained unalienated of its former possessions were also delivered up; but, being found totally inadequate to their support, it became necessary for government to interfere, and uphold this infant foundation of the newly established faith by augmenting its means : accordingly, by letters patent, dated 20th September, 1578, the queen, inconsideration that " the warden and vicars, and their successors, should continue together, and entertain a godly and learned preacher amongst them, from time to time, at their own charges," granted unto them the late dissolved monastery or priory of Annaghdov/n,20 in the county of Galway, with all its temporal and spiritual

    17 In this reign the right to the rectory and his pure and sincere devotion, inor parsonage of the town became a sub- clined their hearts to grant his petition." ject of legal contention. It formerly be- — Orig. Pet.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 199

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in Annaghdown, stood a priory whose story belongs to the great religious upheaval of the 1500s. When Queen Elizabeth came to the throne and the change in religion followed, the Catholic clergy of Galway saw what was coming. They alienated and granted, in perpetuity, the greatest part of the college's possessions to their friends and kindred. So when the college was afterwards seized into the queen's hands and transferred to the reformed clergy, those clergy were found considerably reduced. The same apprehensions of change kept the wardens and vicars from paying attention to the exterior parishes, and those parishes were gradually usurped by the diocesan rectors. The church was at length surrendered to the established clergy, and whatever remained unalienated was delivered up, but it was totally inadequate to their support. Government had to interfere. By letters patent dated the 20th of September, 1578, the queen granted to the warden and vicars, and their successors, the late dissolved monastery or priory of Annaghdown, in the county of Galway, with all its temporal and spiritual possessions. The consideration was that the warden and vicars should continue together and entertain a godly and learned preacher amongst them, from time to time, at their own charges.

31. Recorder sworn without oath of supremacy, 1687

    Galway · city · Galway · 1687

    When Sir Henry Lynch was appointed baron of the exchequer, his successor as recorder of Galway petitioned Lord Tyrconnell to be dispensed from taking the oath of supremacy. The dispensation was granted and the new recorder was sworn in on 18 May 1687.

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    12 Sir Henry Lynch was this year appointed one of the baa-ons of the exchequer ; and his successor (who at his request, was nominated recorder) petitioned lord Tyrconnell that he might be dispensed with from taking the oath of supremacy, which was accordingly granted. He was sworn into office on the 18th May, 1687.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 189

    As the companion tells it

    In Galway here, 1687 was a turning point for the town's legal offices. Sir Henry Lynch was appointed a baron of the exchequer, and his successor as recorder petitioned Lord Tyrconnell to be spared the oath of supremacy. The dispensation was granted, and the new recorder was sworn in on 18 May 1687.

32. Remains of Sir Peter French tomb recovered at Galway abbey

    Galway · city · Galway · 1779

    Around 1779, part of the under-works of the destroyed marble tomb of Sir Peter French was dug up at the Franciscan abbey in Galway and, by order of Father Anthony Carroll, placed in the wall of the sacristy and near the lower entrance to the chapel, where sculptured figures of St. Patrick, St. Nicholas, and other saints could still be seen.

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    19 Part of the under-works of this monument were dug up about the year 1779, and, fry order of father Anthony Carroll, placed in the wall of the sacristy and near the lower entrance to the chapel. In the latter are sculptured figures of St. Patrick and St. Nicholas, the patron of the town, with the family arms of Brown and the crest of French, beneath which are engraved the names "Peter French" and Mary Browne. The other parte exhibit the Crucifixion, but the cross and body defaced ; the two Marys, the twelve apostles, saint Clara, saint Anthony of Padua, saint Francis of Assisium. and others. These remains are much injured by time, but, even still, may enable the

    spectator to form an idea of the magnificence of this once stately mauseoleum.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 217

    As the companion tells it

    Over in Galway, at the Franciscan abbey, you can still find remains of what was once a stately marble tomb for Sir Peter French. Around 1779, part of the under-works of the destroyed monument was dug up and, by order of Father Anthony Carroll, placed in the wall of the sacristy and near the lower entrance to the chapel. There you can see sculptured figures of St. Patrick and St. Nicholas, the patron of the town, with the family arms of Brown and the crest of French beneath the engraved names "Peter French" and "Mary Browne." Other fragments show the Crucifixion, though the cross and body are defaced, along with the two Marys, the twelve apostles, St. Clara, St. Anthony of Padua, St. Francis of Assisi and others. The remains are much injured by time, but even still give an idea of the tomb's former magnificence.

33. Roderick O'Flaherty's burial place near Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1718

    Roderick O'Flaherty, author of the historical work "Ogygia," died in 1718 at the age of 89. He is buried in a field near the house in which he was born, near Galway.

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    his family. He applied himself with astonishing perseverance to the study of the history and antiquities of his native country, and in 1684 published his great work, entitled " Ogygia : seu Rerum Hibernicarum Chronologia ; ex vetustis membranis fldeliter inter se collatis eruta, atque e sacris et prophanis Uteris primarum orbis gentium tarn genealogicis, sufllaminata prsesidiis. Londini, 1685, 4to," which he dedicated to the Duke of York, afterwards James II. This learned and excellent writer, to whose laborious researches we are indebted for the most accurate chronology of this country that ever appeared, died on the 8th of April, 1718, aged 89 years. He .lies buried in a field near the house in which he was born.

    In the year 1775 Charles O'Connor, esq., published, with notes, "Ogygia vindicated against the Objections of Sir George Mackenzie, a posthumous work, by Roderick O'Flaherty, etc."— This tract was published from the original, in the author's hand-writing. Several other manuscript remains of this excellent antiquary, particularly his "Ogygia Christiana," or "Annals of the Christian Ages to the Dissolution of the Irish Monarchy" are said to be still preserved by his descendants near Galway.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 256

    As the companion tells it

    Galway has a quiet connection to one of Ireland's most painstaking antiquaries. Roderick O'Flaherty devoted himself to the study of the history and antiquities of his native country, and in 1684 published his great work, Ogygia, a chronology of Ireland drawn from ancient manuscripts and set against the sacred and profane literature of the world's oldest nations. He dedicated it to the Duke of York, afterwards James II. He died on the 8th of April 1718, aged 89 years, and lies buried in a field near the house in which he was born. After his death, Charles O'Connor published, with notes, Ogygia vindicated against the Objections of Sir George Mackenzie, a posthumous work taken from the original in O'Flaherty's own handwriting, in the year 1775. Several other manuscript remains of this excellent antiquary, particularly his Ogygia Christiana, or Annals of the Christian Ages to the Dissolution of the Irish Monarchy, are said to be still preserved by his descendants.

34. Royal grant to enclose Galway with a stone wall

    Galway · city · Galway

    A royal grant authorized the provost, bailiffs and commonality of Galway to collect customs and tolls on goods entering or leaving the town, with the proceeds to be spent on enclosing the town with a stone wall and paving its streets. The varied commodities listed in the charter indicate that Galway's foreign and inland trade was already very considerable.

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    situate in the marches, between divers his enemies and rebels, as well as English as Irish, and by their daily incursions very much impoverished,) and, for the preservation of his faithful people therein, to be inclosed with a stone wall, as of the parts adjacent and in aid of the paving of the town, granted to the provost, bailiffs and commonality, and their succesors, that, for all saleable things coming to the town by land or water, or passing from the same, they might take the several customs and tolls therein specified : and he commanded that they should cause the same, from day to day, to be levied, collected, received and had. Provided always, that the produce thereof should be faithfully expended towards the walling and the paving of the town. The various commodities comprised in this charter prove the foreign and inland trade of the town, at this period, to have been very considerable; and, by comparing them with the articles contained in the charter of 1361, commerce will be found to have increased very considerably between both periods.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 57

    As the companion tells it

    Galway was a town in the marches, caught between enemies and rebels, both English and Irish, and worn down by their daily raids. A royal grant was made for the preservation of the king's faithful people there, authorising that the town be enclosed with a stone wall. The grant went to the provost, bailiffs, and commonality, and their successors. For all saleable things coming to the town by land or water, or passing from it, they might take the several customs and tolls specified in the charter. The king commanded that these be levied, collected, received, and had from day to day. The produce was to be faithfully expended towards the walling and the paving of the town. The various commodities named in this charter prove that the foreign and inland trade of the place was already very considerable. And by comparing them with the articles in the charter of 1361, commerce will be found to have increased very considerably between both periods.

35. Sir Walter Blake of Menlo petitions King William

    near Menlo · street · Galway · 1691

    Sir Walter Blake of Menlo, second colonel in the Earl of Clanricarde's regiment during the siege of Galway, petitioned King William, stating he was the first Roman Catholic in Ireland to receive the king's commission after submitting to the government. He served on the frontiers until disbanded and sought consideration for his father-in-law Mr. John Kirwan concerning forfeited wool-bonds.

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    17 Some time after the restoration of peace in the kingdom, Sir Walter Blake, of Menlo, bart. petitioned king William, stating, that during the siege of Galway, he was second colonel in the earl of Clanricarde's regiment, then garrisoned in the town; that on the surrender he submitted himself to his majesty's government, and received a commission for raising a regiment of foot in his service ; that he was the first Roman Catholic in Ireland that received his majesty's commission, for Limerick was not at the time reduced, and most of the garrison of Galway (according to the provision in the articles of capitulation) went thither, except himself n-ul some others, who were afterwards officers in his regiment ; that until the surrender of Limerick he was stationed oh the frontiers, between bis majesty's

    quarters and the Irish, where he and his men behaved themselves with great care and fidelity j that he continued in. his majesty's service until disbanded ; and that he had been at great expense arid trouble in raising the regiment, but never received or sought for any recompense, although it was the expectation of his majesty's favour that induced him to quit the service ) 9 was engaged in, his fortune in Ireland being but small. The object of his petition was, that the king would be pleased to direct the lord justices to consider petitioner's services in favour of his father-in-law, Mr. John Kirwan, concerning some forfeited wool-bonds; Mr. Kirwan "being a man who deserved well, and performed many services to his majestie*s subjects in their calamities." — Orig.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 132

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Menlo, Sir Walter Blake once petitioned King William. He was a baronet of Menlo, and during the siege of Galway in 1691 he served as second colonel in the Earl of Clanricarde's regiment, which was garrisoned in the town. When Galway surrendered, he submitted himself to the king's government and received a commission to raise a regiment of foot in the king's service. He stated that he was the first Roman Catholic in Ireland to receive the king's commission. Limerick had not yet been reduced at that time, and most of the Galway garrison went there, as the articles of capitulation provided, except for Blake and some others who afterwards served as officers in his regiment. Until the surrender of Limerick, he was stationed on the frontiers, between the king's quarters and the Irish, where he and his men behaved with great care and fidelity. He continued in the king's service until disbanded. He had been at great expense and trouble raising the regiment but never received or sought any recompense, though it was the expectation of the king's favour that led him to quit the service he had been engaged in, his fortune in Ireland being but small. The object of his petition was that the king would direct the lord justices to consider his services in favour of his father-in-law, Mr. John Kirwan, concerning some forfeited wool-bonds. Blake wrote that Kirwan was a man who deserved well and performed many services to the king's subjects in their calamities.

36. Spanish Armada vessel wrecked in Galway Bay

    near Galway Bay · bay · Clare

    A vessel from the Spanish Armada was wrecked in Galway Bay. The lord deputy, Sir William Fitzwilliams, subsequently arrived in Galway and put several of the surviving Spaniards to death.

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    Wardenship of Galway instituted by the archbishop of Tuam, and confirmed by pope Innocent VIII. — Charter of Richard III. — Remarkable instance of inflexible justice — Fortifications built — Great fire in the town — Battle of Kjioq- Tuadh — Hospital built, and several improvements made — Disputes between Galway and Limerick — Pcrisage of wines claimed — Orders of Henry VIII. to the habitants — The lord deputy, Grey, honorably received in the town, and several Irish chiefs come in and submit — Sir William de Burgh created earl of Clanricarde, and deprived of all power in Galway — Charter of Henry VIII. — Mercantile by-laws — Charters of Edward VI. — The earl of Sussex, chief governor, arrives in Galway, and is splendidly received — Sir Henry Sidney, his successor, arrives in town — Insurrection of Mac-an-Earlas — Their defeat — Charter of Elizabeth — The lord justice, Sir William Pelham, arrives in town, and confirms the charter — Sir John Perrot, lord deputy, conies to Galway — Prisage of wines in the town, established by the Earl of Ormond — One of the vessels of the Spanish armada wrecked in the bay — The lord deputy, Sir William Fitzwilliams, arrives in town, and put several of the Spaniards to death — Sir William Russell, lord deputy, arrives, and investigates the state of the town and province — The town besieged by Hugh Ruadh O'Donnel — Licentiousness of the inhabitants of the country — The chief governor, lord Mountjoy, visits the town — St. Augustine's fort built — Charter of James I. — The town erected into a separate jurisdiction — The lord deputy, viscount Falkland, arrives in Galway—His munificence — Fort of Ballymanagh built — Several fortifications erected — Splendid entry into Galway, and reception of viscount Wentworth, lord deputy — His oppressive proceedings against a jury of the county — Concluding observations ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 71

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 5

    As the companion tells it

    Galway Bay, out along the water, is where one of the vessels of the Spanish Armada came to grief. The ship was wrecked in the bay. Some of the Spaniards survived. Then the lord deputy, Sir William Fitzwilliams, arrived in Galway and put several of them to death. That is what the record holds. The source is a history of the town and county of Galway, and this event sits among many others in a long list of what happened there. Charters and fortifications, visits by lord deputies and chief governors, insurrections and sieges. But for this place, the story is the wreck and what followed. A ship from the Armada, broken in the bay. Men who made it ashore. And a lord deputy who came to town and killed several of them.

37. Spanish manners observed among Galway people

    Galway · city · Galway

    A gentleman who had resided in Spain noted a striking coincidence between the manners of Galway's middle ranks and those of the Spanish. This was attributed to the long-continued intercourse between Galway and the Spanish nation.

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    A gentleman well acquainted with Galway And who had for many years resided in Spain, frequently mentioned to the author that he thought he perceived, in many instances, a striking coincidence between the manners of the people, particularly those of the middle rank, in both places. It is rather remarkable that somewhat a similar observation was made many years ago of the inhabitants of Limerick, to the author of the Philosophical Survey of the South of Ireland. — (Vide p. 228). — Among the lower orders

    13 A Spaniard of ancient descent, and particularly a Castilian, thinks himself the most important being in nature ; but, according to one/ of our popular writers, "ridiculous as this pride is, it is productive of the most exalted qualities : it inspires the nation with generous, humane and virtuous sentiments ; it being seldom found that a Spanish nobleman, gentleman, or even trader, is guilty of a mean action."

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 252

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, people once noticed something odd about the town's manners. A gentleman who had lived in Spain for many years told the author he perceived a striking coincidence between the manners of the middle rank in both places. The same sort of observation was made years ago about the people of Limerick.

38. Suburbs beyond Galway's north-west gate burned

    Galway · city · Galway · 1691

    During skirmishes as the English approached Galway, the Irish troops burned all the suburbs beyond the north-west gate of the town after approaching by the river.

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    On the morning of the 19th July, the English forces, consisting of upwards of fourteen thousand men, chiefly infantry, marched from Athenry for Galway. The remainder of the army, consisting of three thousand horse and dragoons, was left there under the command of lieutenant-general Scravenmore and major-general Ruvigny, as well for the convenience of forage, and securing the passes for the cannon intended to be sent for to Athlone, (should the siege prove tedious,) as for observing the motion of the Irish forces. The troops advanced in two columns, with a rearguard of one hundred men to each wing, commanded by a lieutenantcolonel, and each regiment preceded by a captain, ensign, and fifty firelocks. They met with no opposition in their approach, until they arrived within view of the town, when some skirmishes took place between the advanced posts and parties of the French and Irish forces. The latter set fire to the castle of Tirellan, to prevent the enemy making any use of it against the town, and retained the possession of the outworks of the castle, until they were driven from them by the repeated attacks of a superior force; after which they approached the town by the river, and burned all the suburbs beyond the north-west gate. In these rencontres several of the English were killed. The Irish troops then entered the town amid loud acclamations, and the besieged manifested every intention of making the most vigorous resistance. Ginckle not expecting such immediate and determined opposition, as soon as a part of the army was drawn up as near the town as he could approach with safety, judged it prudent to summon the garrison to surrender. He offered them the benefit of the lords justices' late declaration, if they yielded without giving him any further trouble or delay; but the governor made answer, "that Monsieur D'Uesone, as well as himself, and the rest of the officers, were resolved to defend the place to the last." While the messenger remained in town, the soldiery, impatient for action, discharged several shots from the cannon on the walls, which was afterwards complained of as unusual, and contrary to the rules of war, but it appeared the men were not aware of the communication. The remainder of the day was occupied in fixing the positions of the army round the town, during which the cannonading continued from the walls, though it was attended with but very little effect, in consequence of the favourable situation of the ground chosen by the besiegers- As soon as it was dark, the four regiments of colonel Tiffins. St. John, Monsieur Cambons and lord George Hamilton, with one Dutch and another Danish regiment of foot, and four squadrons of horse and dra-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    On the morning of 19 July 1691, Galway saw an army coming. Upwards of 14,000 English soldiers, chiefly infantry, marched from Athenry, leaving 3,000 horse and dragoons behind under Lieutenant-General Scravenmore and Major-General Ruvigny. They advanced in two columns, each with a rearguard of 100 men, each regiment preceded by a captain, ensign, and 50 firelocks. They met no opposition until they came within view of the town. Then skirmishes broke out between the English advanced posts and parties of French and Irish forces. The Irish set fire to the castle of Tirellan, to keep the enemy from using it against the town. They held the outworks of the castle until repeated attacks by a superior force drove them off. After that they approached the town by the river, and burned all the suburbs beyond the north-west gate. Several English were killed in these encounters. The Irish troops then entered the town amid loud acclamations, and the besieged showed every intention of making vigorous resistance. Ginckle, not expecting such immediate and determined opposition, drew part of the army as near the town as he safely could and summoned the garrison to surrender. He offered them the benefit of the lords justices' late declaration if they yielded without further trouble or delay. The governor made answer, "that Monsieur D'Uesone, as well as himself, and the rest of the officers, were resolved to defend the place to the last." While the messenger remained in town, the soldiery discharged several shots from the cannon on the walls, afterwards complained of as contrary to the rules of war, though it appeared the men were not aware of the communication. The remainder of the day was spent fixing the positions of the army round the town, while cannonading continued from the walls with little effect, owing to the favourable ground chosen by the besiegers.

39. Town-hall agreement on rules for warden and vicars in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1497

    A general meeting of both the corporation and the clergy took place in 1497 in the Galway Town-hall to resolve disputes over governance of the college. They agreed on rules including that the warden and vicars should live together continually, and that the mayor and council should control and punish the wardens and vicars and have the election of the warden yearly.

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    8 The warden and clea'gy, finding themselves firmly established, and free from any ecclesiastical control, except that- of Rome, at length resolved to dispute the power of the corporation to intermeddle with their affairs after the necessary business of election was over. The latter insisting on this right, the clergy appealed against their interference to the archbishop of Tuam, and several differences arose, which, had they not been speedily terminated, might have proved fatal to the college. A general meeting, however, of both parties took place in 1497, in the Town-hall, when the following rules and (regulations were mutually agreed upon, viz. : — " In the honouringe of Almighty God and the furtherance of his divine service, the mayor and counsaill being assembled together, with Sir Henry Brenegan, warden, and the rest of the colledge of this town, it was concented

    and agreed — 1. That the warden and vicares shall daily saye or singe in the quere the tyes or houres, as tercio, sexto and nono — 2. That they shall live together continually. — 3. That no preste nor vicar be found out of their chambers or colledgebouse without lawful business at nighttime— 4. That four boiec should be assisteing and helpinge to singe daily at the quere, especially at Mary-mass, at the exof the vicars and collegde — 5. That the major and counsaill shall henceforth control, correct and punishe the wardens and vicars, without any complaint to be made by them or any of them to bishope or archbishope, save only to the mayor and counsaill - 6. That the mayor and counsaill shall have the election of the warden yearly, and all prests and clerkes, or any man else to serve in the church or colledge."— Corp. Book A.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 194

    As the companion tells it

    Galway is the town where, in 1497, a general meeting of both the corporation and the clergy took place in the Town-hall to settle a serious dispute over who governed the college. The warden and the clergy had been insisting they were free from any ecclesiastical control except that of Rome, and they resolved to dispute the corporation's power to intermeddle in their affairs once elections were over. The corporation insisted on its right. The clergy appealed against this interference to the archbishop of Tuam, and several differences arose. Had they not been speedily terminated, the record says, they might have proved fatal to the college. The meeting brought both sides together, with Sir Henry Brenegan, warden, and the rest of the college, assembled with the mayor and council. They agreed on a set of rules. The warden and vicars shall daily say or sing in the quire the hours, as terce, sext and none. They shall live together continually. No priest or vicar is to be found out of their chambers or college house at nighttime without lawful business. Four boys should assist and help sing daily at the quire, especially at Mary-mass, at the expense of the vicars and college. The mayor and council shall henceforth control, correct and punish the wardens and vicars, without any complaint to bishop or archbishop, save only to the mayor and council. And the mayor and council shall have the election of the warden yearly, and of all priests and clerks, or any man else, to serve in the church or college.

40. Viking destruction of ancient Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 835

    In 835, Viking adventurers under the command of Turgesius ravaged the province of Connaught, causing widespread carnage and destroying the ancient town of Galway.

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    fire and sword, burned and massacred all before them, without distinction. In the year 835, an army of these adventurers, under the command of their sanguinary leader Turgesius, over-run and ravaged the province of Connaught, 1° committing, in their progress, the most dreadful carnage, and, in the general wreck and destruction which then took place, the ancient town of Galway was destroyed. That this insatiable enemy did not spare a place so well adapted for commerce, or afterwards settle there, according to the policy adopted at Waterford, Limerick, and other parts of the kingdom, appears extraordinary, unless that they might, perhaps, have considered its situation as too remote, for purposes of internal traffic or conquest.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 42

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are moving through ground that saw destruction in the year 835. An army of Viking adventurers under their leader Turgesius over-ran and ravaged the province of Connaught, committing dreadful carnage as they went. In the general wreck, the ancient town of Galway was destroyed. The source says they moved with fire and sword, burned and massacred all before them, without distinction. Yet they did not settle here afterward, as they did at Waterford and Limerick, perhaps judging the situation too remote for internal traffic or conquest.

41. William de Burgo put to death at Athenkip on the Shannon, 1270

    Athenry · town · Galway · 1270

    William, second son of Walter de Burgo, was called William de Athenkip from a place of that name on the Shannon, where Hugh O'Conor put him to death while he was a hostage in the year 1270.

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    20a William, his second son, was called William de Athenkip, from a place of that name on the Shannon, where he was put to death by Hugh O'Conor, while his hostage, in the year 1270.

    21 On the roll of the pipe, 51 Hen. III. Gillepatrick Mac Karly was fined 50s. on obtaining his pardon for burning the town of Galvy, and for the death of ITavid Bree ; and several other instances of a

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 46

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Athenry, in 1270, Hugh O'Conor put William de Burgo to death. William was the second son of Walter de Burgo, and he was called William de Athenkip, from a place of that name on the Shannon. He died while he was O'Conor's hostage.

42. Williamite Garrison on Aran Islands

    near Aran Islands · island or archipelago · Galway · 1691

    Following the surrender of Galway to King William's forces in 1691, a garrison was sent to the Aran Islands. A barracks was constructed on the islands to house soldiers who were stationed there for many years.

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    The parlimentary forces, on taking possession of the fortifications, found seven large pieces of cannon, a considerable quantity of arms and ammunition ; they also seized a French shallop of twenty eight oars, and several large boats. The fort was soon after newly repaired, and a strong garrison stationed in it. In the mean time, Sir Robert Lynch, the former proprietor of the islands, was declared a forfeiting traitor. His right was assigned to Erasmus Smith, esq., one of the most considerable of the London adventurers in Ireland ; and the interest of this gentleman having been purchased by Richard, earl of Arran, his title was afterwards confirmed by the act of settlement. On the surrender of Galway to king William's forces, in 1691, a garrison was sent to Arran, and a barrack was built, in which soldiers were stationed for many years. After several revolutions, the inheritance of the islands became vested in the Digby family, in whose possession they now remain.

    The author regrets that he cannot here introduce a description of the natural productions and stupendous scenery of these interesting islands, the singular cus-

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 259

    As the companion tells it

    The Aran Islands lie off the coast of Galway. In 1691, after Galway surrendered to King William's forces, a garrison was sent to the islands, and a barracks was built there. Soldiers were stationed in it for many years. Before that, parliamentary forces had taken possession of the fortifications on the islands and found seven large pieces of cannon, a considerable quantity of arms and ammunition. They also seized a French shallop of 28 oars and several large boats. The fort was soon after newly repaired, and a strong garrison stationed in it. Sir Robert Lynch, the former proprietor of the islands, was declared a forfeiting traitor. His right was assigned to Erasmus Smith, one of the most considerable of the London adventurers in Ireland. Richard, Earl of Arran, purchased Smith's interest, and his title was afterwards confirmed by the act of settlement. After several revolutions, the inheritance of the islands became vested in the Digby family.

43. Willoughby's soldiers pillage Ardfry and kill country people

    Ardfry · townland · Galway

    Willoughby's soldiers made two sallies from the fort into the Galway countryside, killing a dozen innocent men, women, and children in the first, and pillaging Sir Richard Blake's remaining stock at Ardfry in the second. These raids exposed the fort's true allegiance 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

    Somewhere close to Ardfry, Willoughby's soldiers came out of the fort and made two raids into the Galway countryside. In the first, they killed, by their own confession, a dozen poor innocent people, men, women and children. In the second, they pillaged all the remains of Sir Richard Blake's stock. What most revealed the true principles of the fort was the conduct of Captain Constable, commander of one of the ships that came to assist it. He stood on the rampart next the town and 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 these and other circumstances, it was concluded that the fort was no longer in his majesty's obedience, but at the disposal of the parliament.

44. Assembly room in Middle Street, Galway

    Middle Street · street · Galway

    The assembly room in Middle Street, Galway, was noted for frequently displaying an assemblage of native beauty, elegance, and fashion. A French traveller observed that public assemblies were held daily at a moderate price.

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    The theatre is situate in Kirwan's-lane, which is one of the most confined and inconvenient parts of the town. The house is small, but the scenery is esteemed elegant; and, from the taste and attention of Mr. Macartney, the accommodations are as complete as the nature and size of the building will permit. The most celebrated performers, viz., Barry, Mossop, Kemble, Cooke, Siddons, Walstein and O'Neill, have occasionally visited these boards. The facetious Smithson had long been a favorite; and the exertions of Mr. Clarke to contribute to the rational entertainment of the public are deserving of every success. A new theatre, however, in an open and central situation, appears necessary. The assembly-room in Middle-street frequently displays an assemblage of native beauty, elegance and fashion, which would grace the drawing-rooms of a court. 18 These, with occasional concerts and incidental public exhibitions, are the only

    17 The author here oegs leave most respectfully to point the attention of the heads of the corporation to this reprehensible practice, and to a few other matters, which, if heretofore attended to, might have been productive of much public advantage.—The first is the providing a fire-engine, the want of which, m this populous town, has been long and severely felt. It is a well-known melancholy fact that a conflagration here is seldom extinguished for want of proper assistance, until the ill-fated building which it seizes is completely reduced to a heap of rums. —Another most desirable and necessary improvement would be the introduction of water-pipes through the principal streets, or the erection of three or four public fountains, which could be done at no very considerable expense.— The process of

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 253

    As the companion tells it

    This is the assembly room in Middle Street, Galway. The room frequently displays an assemblage of native beauty, elegance and fashion, which would grace the drawing-rooms of a court. The theatre is situated in Kirwan's Lane, one of the most confined and inconvenient parts of the town. The theatre house is small, but the scenery is esteemed elegant, and through the taste and attention of Mr. Macartney, the accommodations are as complete as the nature and size of the building will permit. The most celebrated performers have occasionally visited these boards, including Barry, Mossop, Kemble, Cooke, Siddons, Walstein and O'Neill. The facetious Smithson had long been a favorite. The exertions of Mr. Clarke to contribute to the rational entertainment of the public are deserving of every success. A new theatre in an open and central situation appears necessary. The assembly room, occasional concerts and incidental public exhibitions are the only entertainments named. The book also notes that the heads of the corporation should attend to a few matters. The want of a fire-engine in the populous town has been long and severely felt. It is a well-known melancholy fact that a conflagration is seldom extinguished for want of proper assistance until the ill-fated building it seizes is completely reduced to a heap of ruins. Another desirable improvement would be the introduction of water-pipes through the principal streets, or the erection of three or four public fountains, which could be done at no very considerable expense.

45. Crown reservation ends Burke authority in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1543

    In 1543 the crown reserved all cockets, pensions, profits and exactions within the town of Galway to itself, excluding William Burke and his heirs from any claims within the town forever. This ended the authority of the Burke family in Galway, whom Hardiman describes as the town's principal founders and protectors for over two centuries.

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    Greenwich,. 1st July, 1543, the cockets of Galway, to which he was theretofore entitled, and all pensions, profits and exactions within the town, were reserved to the crown, in lieu of which he was granted an annual sum of 301. sterling, payable out of the treasury, and the third part of the firstfruits, and the abbey of Via Nova or Clonfert. The following is the reservation : — Excepting always, and reserving unto us, our heirs and successors, all that portion, custom, profit or pension of the cockets, and all and singular pensions, exactions, profits and commodities whatsoever, which the aforesaid William pretends or claims to have and receive from our town of Galway, in our kingdom of Ireland aforesaid, so as that neither he, the said William, nor his heirs, shall henceforth have or claim any thing whatsoever within the said town, but that they shall be totally excluded therefrom for ever. "33 Thus ended the authority of this ancient and powerful family in Galway, of which they were originally the principal founders and protectors, and afterwards governed with almost absolute control, for upwards of two centuries.

    This exemption was followed by a new charter from the crown, granted by Henry VIII. on 3d July, 1545, whereby he confirmed all former charters, and added several very considerable privileges. The limits of the port were described from the islands of Arran to the town; the corporation was

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 73

    As the companion tells it

    In 1543 the crown took back for itself every right William Burke claimed to hold over the town of Galway. All cockets, pensions, profits and exactions within the town were reserved to the crown. William Burke and his heirs were excluded from everything within the town forever. In return he was granted an annual sum of 301 pounds sterling, payable out of the treasury, the third part of the firstfruits, and the abbey of Via Nova or Clonfert. The reservation was made at Greenwich on the 1st of July, 1543. Its words said that neither William Burke nor his heirs should henceforth have or claim anything whatsoever within the town of Galway, but that they should be totally excluded therefrom forever. Hardiman says this ended the authority of the Burke family in Galway. He calls them the town's principal founders and protectors, who governed it with almost absolute control for upwards of two centuries. Two years later, on the 3rd of July, 1545, Henry VIII granted Galway a new charter. He confirmed all former charters and added several considerable privileges. The limits of the port were described from the islands of Arran to the town.

46. Election of Warden Ffrench sparks division in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1812–1813

    After the death of Doctor Bodkin in 1812, Edmund Ffrench of the Dominican order was elected warden of Galway, causing fresh troubles. The other vicars protested, the chapter declared the proceedings invalid, and the matter was appealed to the Pope, who confirmed the election on 18 June 1813.

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

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 215

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Galway now, where a quarrel over the wardenship divided the town in 1812. After the death of Doctor Bodkin that year, Edmund Ffrench of the Dominican order was elected warden. He had earlier been chosen as vicar after the lay-patrons resolved not to elect any of the then vicars, who were mostly of non-tribe families. At the patrons' desire, a dispensation was procured from Rome to make three regulars of the town eligible: the reverend John Fallon, and the reverend Charles and Edmund Ffrench, two brothers, all of the Dominican order. Edmund Ffrench's election as warden occasioned fresh troubles. The other vicars loudly protested, charging the lay-patrons with partiality and injustice. The chapter declared the proceedings invalid, refused to confer institution on the newly-elected warden, and appealed to the pope, complaining against the innovation of a regular intruding on a secular chapter. Many of the most respectable inhabitants also murmured at these proceedings. The election was confirmed by the pope on 18 June 1813. The record credits Warden Ffrench's piety and zeal, saying the town is principally indebted to him for the establishment of the presentation convent, and that the superb collegiate chapel, then erecting, raised by his single exertions, would long remain a splendid monument of his zeal for religion.

47. Galway authorises capture of town's adversaries by land or sea

    Galway · city · Galway · 1548

    A 1548 by-law of Galway provided that any gentleman who apprehended persons spoiling and robbing the town's provisions and merchandise, by land or sea, should send them to Galway for trial. If condemned to death by a quest, the mayor and officers were to execute them immediately, under penalty of £20.

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    That if any gentleman, by easte or weste, apprehend any the town's advarsaries, who doth spoil and robe the comenc of the same of their provision and merchandiz, by land or sea, and sending that naughty person into this town to answer for such faults and crymes, that immediately there shall a queste pass on him, and if the queste condemn him to death, the mayor and officers shall forthwith put him to execution, under penalty of 201.

    1549.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 168

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Galway now. Back in 1548 the town passed a by-law ordering that any gentleman who captured people spoiling and robbing its provisions and merchandise, by land or sea, should send them here for trial. If a quest condemned them to death, the mayor and officers had to carry out the execution straight away, on pain of a 20 pound penalty.

48. Galway destroyed by Danes, ravaged by Momonians, revived 1170

    Galway · city · Galway

    Galway was destroyed by the Danes, rebuilt by the Conacians, and subsequently ravaged by the Momonians. The town was burned and again revived in 1170, demonstrating its repeated cycles of destruction and recovery.

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    Early History and Antiquities of Ireland disputed — Intemperate feelings of writers on the subject — Come but little within the scope of this work — The ancient town of Galway made a chief point of division in the various partitions of Ireland — In that by Heber and Heremon — By Eogan More and Con-Cead-Chathach in the second century — War between these princes, for an equal dividend of the revenues of Dublin and Galway — The latter then a place of note — Destruction of Irish records — Accounts of Ireland by Tacitus and Ptolemy — Those of the latter doubted — Opinions of Camden, Ware, Baxter and others — That Galway Was the Nagnata of Ptolemy — Its origin uncertain — Destruction of the ToWn by the Danes — Rebuilt by the Conacians — Ravaged by the Momonians — Burned, and again revived in 1 1 70.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 34

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Galway now, a city with a long and hard history. It was already a place of note in the second century, when Eogan More and Con-Cead-Chathach fought a war over an equal share of its revenues along with Dublin's. Some scholars thought Galway was the Nagnata recorded by Ptolemy, though its origin is uncertain. The town was destroyed by the Danes, rebuilt by the Conacians, and then ravaged by the Momonians. It was burned, and again revived in 1170. Each time it fell, it came back.

49. Non-tribes denied chapel access, elect warden at Augustinian chapel

    Galway · city · Galway · 1791

    On 10 September 1791, the rival non-tribe corporation was denied admittance to the parish chapel in Galway to hold their warden election. They proceeded instead to the Augustinian chapel, where Reverend Denis Mannion was elected warden, though he and others declined the honours as lacking papal sanction.

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    [Signed by the mayor, recorder, bailiffs or sheriffs, town-clerk, and some of the most respectable peers (pares, or equals, supposed to mean freemen or common council-men), for the time being, of the Catholic corporation.] 10. Immediately after the decease of warden Kirwan in 1791, the non-tribes, pursuant to public advertisement, assembled at the tholsel and formed a Catholic corporation of their own. Walter Burke was nominated mayor, James Murke (recorder, Walter Flaherty and Robert Power sheriffs, and John E. Burke townclerk. They then gave notice that they would, on 10th September, 1791, in the parish chapel, proceed to the election of a warden in place of the deceased ; on which day, being denied admittance there, they proceeded to the Augustinian chapel, and the revered Denis Mannion, one of the vicars, was elected warden, and the (reverend Andrew Kenny, vicar in his place ; but these gentlemen, not considering the proceedings valid without the sanction of the holy see, declined the honours thus conferred on them. The non-

    268

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 212

    As the companion tells it

    Galway, in 1791, was the stage for a contested election that split the town's Catholic body. After warden Kirwan died, the non-tribes gathered at the tholsel and formed a Catholic corporation of their own. They nominated Walter Burke as mayor, James Murke as recorder, Walter Flaherty and Robert Power as sheriffs, and John E. Burke as town clerk. They gave notice that on 10 September 1791 they would proceed to the election of a warden in the parish chapel. On that day they were denied admittance there. They went instead to the Augustinian chapel, and the reverend Denis Mannion, one of the vicars, was elected warden, with the reverend Andrew Kenny as vicar in his place. But these gentlemen declined the honours conferred on them, not considering the proceedings valid without the sanction of the holy see.

50. O'Donnell destroys castle of Enniskillen

    near Enniskillen · town · Fermanagh · 1595–1596

    Hugh Ruadh O'Donnell and the northern Irish destroyed the castle of Enniskillen before penetrating into Connaught, where they were joined by Tibbot M'Walter Kittagh Bourke and other confederates.

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

    16 Lynch, in Vita Kirovani, relates that, their dead bodies were carefully wrapt in fine linen by the towns-women, and committed to burial : he further mentions that only two of the Spaniards escaped deatb on this occasion ; that they were for a long time concealed in the town, and afterwards safely conveyed to Spain.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 83

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Enniskillen saw Hugh Ruadh O'Donnell and the northern Irish destroy its castle in 1595. After that, they pushed into Connaught, where Tibbot M'Walter Kittagh Bourke joined them. They gave him the title of Mac William, and other powerful confederates rallied to their cause. In January 1596 they began hostilities and wasted, burned and destroyed almost the entire county of Galway. On the 15th of that month they invested Athenry, burned the gates, and entered the town. They were repulsed in an attack on the castle, which was bravely defended, and failed in an attempt to scale the battlements. They took possession of the wall-towers, and made prisoners of as many of the inhabitants as guarded them. Then they set fire to the town. With the exception of the castle that resisted them, and the abbey and church alone spared, it was reduced to ashes.

51. Political procession through Galway to Meyrick-square

    Eyre Square · street · Galway

    A grand political procession celebrating an electoral victory marched through the principal streets of Galway, featuring guilds with banners, a military band, and some four hundred freemen decorated with oak and laurel. It ended at Meyrick-square with upwards of twenty thousand people assembled and no accidents reported.

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    The procession, thus arranged, proceeded, amidst the most triumphant plaudits of the populace, through the principal streets of the town, greeting, in their progress, the several families favourable to their cause, and ended at Meyrick-square. The greatest unanimity prevailed, and, although upwards of twenty thousand people were assembled, not a single accident occurred. The town was brilliantly illuminated in the evening, and every possible demonstration of joy was evinced on the occasion.

    THE

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 161

    As the companion tells it

    A public square in Galway, Meyrick Square, where a grand political procession celebrated an electoral victory. It marched through the principal streets of the town, greeting families favourable to its cause. Guilds carried banners, a military band played, and some 400 freemen wore oak and laurel. Upwards of 20,000 people assembled, and not a single accident occurred. That evening the town was brilliantly illuminated, with every possible demonstration of joy.

52. Roscommon Castle repaired and destroyed

    Roscommon · town · Roscommon

    Roscommon Castle was repaired and strengthened by Robert D'Ufford at considerable expense during his first term as lord justice. It was later prostrated by the son of Fedhlim O'Conor, who waged war against the king, leading to his outlawry.

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    conquest of Connaught by William de Burgo. That a cetrain Irishman of the name of Feylym O'Conoghur, who stiled himself king of Connaught. held those lands from Henry III. for 500 marks yearly. That the said Feylym during his life kept the king's peace, and faithfully paid his rent ; but that after his death his son arose and became a traitor, and destroyed the king's liege English subjects in those parts ; and waged war against the king that now is, and prostrated his castles of Roscommon and Raudon, (which castle of Roscommon Robert D'Ufford, when first he was appointed lord justice, had repaired and strengthened at considerable expense,) in consequence of which he was outlawed, and died the king's enemy — so tha£ from the death of Feylym O'Conohur, to the time that said Robert D'Ufford was again appointed lord justice, the king received litle or nothing out of the said lands, except one cantred called O'Many. which he granted to Robert de la Rokele in fee farm. That Robert D'Ufford, at his second coming, by means of a considerable army and at great expense, again repaired the castle of R oscommon ; and demised two cantreds and a half, part of said lands, to to one O'Conoghur ; and that other lords justices had afterwards granted the same to several of the O'Conoghurs, who rarely paid any rents thereout. That the lands would be worth 250 marks yearly, if the Irish were driven from those parts ; but this, they say, cannot be done without great power and expense, (far exceeding the value of the land,) as O'Conoghur is one of the five captains of Ireland. And they finally say that the king, without any prejudice or injurv to himself, or any other, might grant the same to the said Earl, or any other Englisman ; but that it would be more for the interest of the king, and of

    H

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 50

    As the companion tells it

    In Roscommon, there stands the ruin of a castle that was built and broken more than once. Robert D'Ufford, when he was first appointed lord justice, repaired and strengthened Roscommon Castle at considerable expense. It stood then as a mark of the king's authority in Connaught. The lands around it had been held from Henry III by an Irishman named Fedhlim O'Conor, who styled himself king of Connaught and paid 500 marks yearly for the privilege. During his life he kept the king's peace and faithfully paid his rent. But after his death his son arose, became a traitor, and destroyed the king's liege English subjects in those parts. He waged war against the king and prostrated his castles of Roscommon and Raudon. For this he was outlawed, and he died the king's enemy. From the death of Fedhlim O'Conor to the time Robert D'Ufford was again appointed lord justice, the king received little or nothing out of those lands, except one cantred called O'Many, which he granted to Robert de la Rokele in fee farm. D'Ufford returned with a considerable army and at great expense again repaired the castle of Roscommon. He demised two cantreds and a half of the lands to one O'Conor. Later lord justices granted the same to several of the O'Conors, who rarely paid any rents. The lands would have been worth 250 marks yearly if the Irish were driven from those parts, but that could not be done without great power and expense far exceeding the value of the land, for O'Conor was one of the five captains of Ireland.

53. Warden Bermingham elected to pacify tribes and non-tribes

    Galway · city · Galway

    Reverend Patrick Bermingham of the Barbersfort family was elected warden of Galway, the only non-tribe member chosen in a century, to pacify the 'non-tribes' who complained the ancient families had usurped the right of election. He was arrested by the mayor for alleged non-conformity with penal laws but released when he had complied.

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    A short time previous to this event the reverend Patrick Bermingham, of the family of Barbersfort, in the county of Galway, a clergy man of profound learning and considerable talent, was elected warden, and was the only person not of the Galway names and families, already enumerated, who had been elected to that dignity for the preceding century. He, it is said, was chosen by the "tribes," or ancient families of the town, to pacify the natives, or inhabitants of other names, since called "non-tribes," who about that time began to complain that the former had wrongfully usurped to themselves the right of election and presentation of the clergy. Doctor Bermingham, soon after his election, was arrested by the mayor and thrown into prison on a charge of not having conformed to the regulations prescribed by law for popish priests; but, it appearing that he had regularly complied with those rules, he was released by order of government. During his incumbency the old disputes between the Archbishop of Tuam and the collegiate clergy, as to the jurisdiction of the former over the warden and vicars, were again revived, and proceedings were at length instituted in Rome between doctor Bernard O'Gara, the then archbishop, and the clergy and people of the town. On this occasion a commission issued; and Cornelius O Keefe, titular bishop of Limerick, was delegated to proceed to Galway, and there to examine into the grounds of these differences. A compromise at length took place between both parties, and certain articles were agreed to, by which it was conceded, on the part of the clergy and people of Galway, that the archbishop of Tuam, for the time being, should have a right of triennial visitation in capite et membris; and also that appeals might be made, in secunda instaniia, from the sentence of the warden to the archiepiscopal see. On the part of the latter it was granted that the right of election belonged to the lay-patrons; and, amongst other articles, which are subjoined, 5 it was agreed that the warden

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 210

    As the companion tells it

    Galway was a town of ancient families, the tribes, who held the right to elect their warden. For a century only men of those families had been chosen. Then the reverend Patrick Bermingham, of the Barbersfort family in the county of Galway, a clergyman of profound learning and considerable talent, was elected warden. He was the only person not of the Galway names and families elected to that dignity in the preceding hundred years. The tribes chose him, it is said, to pacify the natives, or inhabitants of other names, since called the non-tribes, who had begun to complain that the ancient families had wrongfully usurped the right of election and presentation of the clergy. Soon after his election Doctor Bermingham was arrested by the mayor and thrown into prison on a charge of not having conformed to the regulations prescribed by law for popish priests. But it appeared he had regularly complied with those rules, and he was released by order of government. During his incumbency the old disputes between the Archbishop of Tuam and the collegiate clergy were revived over the question of the archbishop's jurisdiction over the warden and vicars. Proceedings were instituted in Rome between Doctor Bernard O'Gara, the then archbishop, and the clergy and people of the town. A commission issued, and Cornelius O'Keefe, titular bishop of Limerick, was delegated to proceed to Galway and examine into the grounds of these differences. A compromise took place at length. The clergy and people of Galway conceded that the archbishop of Tuam, for the time being, should have a right of triennial visitation, and that appeals might be made from the sentence of the warden to the archiepiscopal see. The archbishop granted that the right of election belonged to the lay-patrons.

54. Secretary of state rebukes Galway mayor over friars landing

    Galway · city · Galway · 1701

    In October 1701, Francis Gwyn, secretary of state, wrote to the mayor of Galway expressing the lord lieutenant's displeasure that two friars had landed at Galway from a French ship without being reported, contrary to law. The mayor was ordered to account for whether the friars had been seized and held in custody.

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

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 209

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are in a city where, in October 1701, the mayor received a sharp letter from Francis Gwyn, the secretary of state in London. Gwyn wrote on behalf of the lord lieutenant, who had learned that two friars had landed at Galway from a French ship and that two post-days had passed with no report from the mayor. The lord lieutenant was, in Gwyn's words, "not well pleased with your remissness." The mayor was ordered to send an account of whether the friars had been seized according to act of parliament and were in custody, and to report whatever else had been done in the matter. The letter is dated the 25th of October 1701, in the reign of William the Third, when the laws against Catholic clergy were severe. The trouble did not end there. After the accession of Queen Anne's successor, the grand jury of the county of Galway, at assizes held in the town on the 29th of March 1715, reported that great numbers of popish priests and friars had come into the kingdom within the previous four years. They said friars had settled in several places across the county: Kilconnell and another spot near Portumna, Ross near Headford, Loughrea, and sites near the abbeys of Athenry and Kinelehan. The grand jury complained that those who had been active in suppressing friaries had been discouraged in the closing years of the previous reign.

55. 1818 Galway election and triumphal procession

    Galway · city · Galway · 1818

    In the 1818 election, Valentine Blake was re-elected by a considerable majority over Mr. Prendergast, Daly's nominee. The triumphal procession of the victorious candidate through Galway was described as the most splendid ever witnessed in that part of Ireland, with public dinners given to celebrate.

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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 the road brings you through Galway, this is a town that saw one of its most celebrated political victories in 1818. The story began a few years earlier. After the dissolution of parliament in 1812, Valentine Blake of Menlo offered himself as the popular candidate for the town. Mr. Ponsonby, the late member, was put in nomination again, and after a severe contest was declared duly elected. A petition was then presented against his return. After proceedings before a committee of the house of commons, his election was pronounced void, and Blake was declared duly elected. This caused great rejoicing in the town, but the committee also determined the right of election to be in the freeholders and freemen, and the question of non-residence remained undecided. To settle this point, proceedings were instituted in the king's bench. In the meantime Blake and the Independents kept up their efforts. When parliament was dissolved again in 1818, a new election was held. Blake, 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 of Mr. Daly. This second victory, by which the independent cause seemed finally and firmly established, caused universal joy. Public dinners were given to mark the event, and the triumphal procession of the victorious and popular candidate through the town was the most splendid ever witnessed in this part of Ireland.

56. Ballinasloe cattle fairs and Garbally patent

    Ballinasloe · town · Galway · 1757

    The great cattle fairs of Ballinasloe, said to be the most extensive in the British Isles, were originally established due to their contiguity to Galway's provision trade. A patent for holding two fairs annually was granted to Richard Trench of Garbally on 8 June 1757, though the fairs had subsisted from a much earlier period.

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    12 The great cattle fairs of Ballinasloe (by far the most extensive in these islands) were, it is said, originally established at that place from its contiguity to Galway. These famous marts have subsisted from a very early period, although no patent for holding thorn appears on record before 8th June, 1757, when Richard Trench, esq., of Garbally, obtained a patent for holding two fairs, on 15 th May and 18th July, in every year. Once, however, established, thev have ever since continued, although the cause of their origin, viz., the provision trade of Galway, has long since ceased.

    13 The manufacture of kelp commenced in the neighbourhood of Galway about the year 1700, and the late Andrew French and his grandfather were the first that exported it from the town. In 1762 the former gentleman stated before a committee of the house of commons that the usual load of a boat was from five to ten or twelve tons ; and that he had known one boat to make from fifteen to twenty trips yearly from the place where the kelp was burned to the quay. He also stated that kelp was then worth from 25s. to 35s. per ton ; but that about 50 years before it was worth only from 14s. to 21s. per ton. —Com. Jour.— In 1776. about 3,000 tons were annually exported.- — Young's Tour. — After this period it was found that several gross frauds were practised in making this article by mixing it with sand, stones and other grit matter, to the manifest injury, as was complained, of the linen trade of the kingdom. Inspectors were accordingly appointed ; but even this precaution was found insufficient to prevent its adulteration, in consequenco of which th<3 Cnnnemara kelp has of late years

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 232

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballinasloe, this is the town of the great cattle fairs, said to be by far the most extensive in these islands. They were originally established at this place from its contiguity to Galway, and the provision trade of Galway was the cause of their origin. These famous marts subsisted from a very early period, although no patent for holding them appears on record before 8 June 1757, when Richard Trench of Garbally obtained a patent for holding two fairs, on 15 May and 18 July, in every year. Once established, they have ever since continued, although the provision trade of Galway has long since ceased. The manufacture of kelp commenced in the neighbourhood of Galway about the year 1700. Andrew French and his grandfather were the first that exported it from the town. In 1762 the former stated before a committee of the House of Commons that the usual load of a boat was from 5 to 10 or 12 tons, and that he had known one boat to make from 15 to 20 trips yearly from the place where the kelp was burned to the quay. He also stated that kelp was then worth from 25 shillings to 35 shillings per ton, but that about 50 years before it was worth only from 14 shillings to 21 shillings per ton. In 1776 about 3,000 tons were annually exported. After this period several gross frauds were practised in making this article by mixing it with sand, stones, and other grit matter, to the manifest injury, as was complained, of the linen trade of the kingdom. Inspectors were accordingly appointed, but even this precaution was found insufficient to prevent its adulteration.

57. Browne family settlements in Mayo

    Westport · town · Mayo · 1558–1603

    Several distinguished Browne houses in Mayo—Westport, the Neale, Brownestown, Brownehall, Breafy, and Turin Castle—were founded by progenitors of English descent who settled there during the reign of Queen Elizabeth. These families were not connected in origin to the Brownes of Galway.

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    settled near Galway, and married Bevann ny Flahertie, daughter of Morough O'Flahertie, of West Connaught, "from whom is descended Sir Dominick Browne, whose issue now inherit a considerable estate, in and about Galway and in the County of Mayo."— Then follows, "the true lineal descent, with an exact account of the genealogy of Sir Mathew Browne's ancestors, with all the intermarriages, since the first of the family came to Ireland, in 1169, all which was rescued from oblivion, by the Rev. Father in God, by Divine1 Providence, John Browne. Bishop of Ferns, and sent by him to Sir Patrick Linegar, to he inserted in his books of antiquity, amongst the rest of the nobility of Ireland." Notwithstanding all this parade, it is certain that the account given of John, the second son of Sir Mathew Browne, is incorrect. The many noble and distinguished houses of the name in Mayo, viz. Westport, the Neale, Brownestown, Brownehall, Breafy, and Turin-Castle, whose1 progenitors settled there in tin1 reign of Queen Elizabeth) are of English descent, and no way connected in. their origin, with the Brownes of Galway.

    30 The Crest on the map, two eagle's heads, addorsed..

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Westport in Mayo, you are traveling among settlements tied to the Browne family. Several distinguished Browne houses—Westport, the Neale, Brownestown, Brownehall, Breafy, and Turin Castle—were founded by progenitors of English descent who settled here during the reign of Queen Elizabeth, from 1558 to 1603. Despite elaborate genealogies claiming a connection reaching back to 1169, these Mayo Brownes were, in the words of the source, "no way connected in their origin" with the older Brownes of Galway.

58. Carmelite friars oppose papal nuncio Rinuccini, 1647

    Galway · city · Galway · 1647

    In 1647 the Carmelite friars of Galway opposed the pope's nuncio Rinuccini, and his treatment of them formed one of the principal articles of accusation brought against him by the supreme council.

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    This triary is said to have been founded here by the De Burgo family; but upon what authority it is attributed to them, or at what period it was erected, are not mentioned. In 1647 the friars opposed the pope's nuncio, Rinuncini, and his treatment of them on the occasion formed one of '"he principal articles of accusation brought against him by the supreme council.

    The Augustinian convent of Galway ranks next to that of Dublin ; and, from its thus taking precedence of all the other convents of the order in Ireland, some are inclined to infer that it must have been founded earlier than the 16th century — an inference which would be undeniable if these foundations ranked according to time.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 222

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are near where the Carmelite friary was said to be founded by the De Burgo family, though the authority for that claim and the date are not recorded. In 1647 the friars here opposed the pope's nuncio, Rinuccini. His treatment of them became one of the principal articles of accusation brought against him by the supreme council.

59. Catholics return to Galway under James II

    Galway · city · Galway · 1685

    On the accession of James II, Catholic inhabitants returned to Galway and were made free of the corporation. Catholic clergy were established in the town and a new charter was granted.

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

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

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 115

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Galway, you are travelling through a town that changed hands more than once. Under Charles the Second, many of the new settlers departed and the old natives came back. The king sent letters to the lords justices to restore them to their freedom and estates. But animosities rose between the old inhabitants and the new settlers. The lords justices showed prejudice against the old natives and opposed their claims. The old natives were excluded from corporate privileges and finally expelled the town. The corporation lands, with the charter and market duties, were granted to Mrs. Elizabeth Hamilton. The earl of Essex, lord lieutenant, opposed the grant and gave a description of the decayed state of the town. Colonel Theodore Russell purchased the charter and market duties and was elected mayor. The king granted a new charter containing many ample privileges. Still, the population was considerably diminished and the houses were falling to ruin. Many of the old natives gave security and were permitted to return, but they were soon obliged to depart owing to the clamors and discontent of some members of the corporation. Then James the Second came to the throne. The Catholic inhabitants returned to the town and were made free of the corporation. Catholic clergy were established in the town and a new charter was granted. Troubles began, and the fortifications of the town were repaired. Resolutions were made to adhere to James and his government, and Protestant inhabitants were removed out of the town.

60. Claddagh fishing village: ancient colony near Galway

    Claddagh · electoral division · Galway · 1812–1820

    The Claddagh, meaning 'seashore', is an ancient fishing village a quarter mile west of Galway with 468 thatched houses and over 3,000 souls by 1820. Tradition holds it was the first residence of settlers in the area, chosen for its convenience for fishing.

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    Situation and Extent. The Claddagh (an Irish word which signifies the seashore) is a village situate on the estate of Ma*. Whaley, near the strand, about a quarter of a mile to the west of Galway. It is irregularly built, but very extensive, and intersected into several streets. The number of houses or cabins, which are all thatched, was returned, in 1812, _at 468, inhabited by 500 families, consisting of 1.050 males and 1,286 females, but the population is now (1820) considerably greater being supposed to exceed 3,000 souls. It i« a very ancient village, and, according to tradition, was the first residence of the settlers in this quarter ; a circumstance not very unlikely, from its contiguity to the bay and consequent convenience for the purpose of fishing, which appears to have been their original occupation. Previously to 1808, the streets and exterior of this large village were as remarkable for want of cleanliness as the interior of most of the houses was for neatness and regularity. About that time captain Hurdis, of the royal navy, then commanding the sea fencibles of this district, persuaded the fishermen to appropriate a small portion of their weekly pay for the purpose of paving and cleansing about their houses and since that time it has been observed that they have got rid of many of those contagious disorders which generally prevail in large irregular villages.

    Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 235

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through or near Claddagh, a fishing village on the seashore west of Galway. The name means seashore in Irish. It stands on the estate of Whaley, near the strand, irregularly built but very extensive, cut through by several streets. In 1812 the village had 468 thatched houses, home to 500 families. The count came to 1,050 males and 1,286 females. By 1820 the population was thought to exceed 3,000 souls. It is a very ancient village. Tradition says it was the first residence of the settlers in this quarter. That seems likely, given its closeness to the bay and the convenience for fishing, which was their original occupation. Before 1808 the streets were remarkable for their lack of cleanliness, though the interiors of most houses were known for neatness and regularity. About that time Captain Hurdis of the Royal Navy, commanding the sea fencibles of the district, persuaded the fishermen to set aside a small portion of their weekly pay for paving and cleansing around their houses. Since then they have been observed to have got rid of many of those contagious disorders that generally prevail in large irregular villages.