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

First Catholic mayor of Galway in thirty years

Galway · city · Galway · 1624

Until 1624, the mayor of Galway was elected solely by aldermen and sheriffs, and no Catholics were admitted for many years as they invariably refused the oath of supremacy. The corporation resolved that every freeman should have a vote, resulting in Robert Blake becoming the first Catholic mayor in thirty years.

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1. "Until this year, the mayor was elected solely by the aldermen and sheriffs, (the former having either been mayors, or such as were eligible to be so,) and no Catholics Vere admitted for many years, they invariably refusing to take the oath of supremacy. Thus circumstanced, it was with difficulty persons could be found to fill the office. In order to remedy this inconvenience, the corporation at length resolved, that every freeman should have a vote at the election ; in consequence of
which, the above was the first Catholic mayor for the last thirty years.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 175

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a city with a striking political shift in 1624. For thirty years no Catholic had served as mayor, because Catholics invariably refused the oath of supremacy required of the office. The mayor had been elected solely by aldermen and sheriffs, and with so few willing men, the corporation resolved that every freeman should have a vote at the election. The result was that a Catholic, Robert Blake, became mayor, the first in three decades.

Fortification of Barachalla, Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1690–1691

Royal commissioners arrived to inspect Galway and ordered repairs to the town walls plus a new fortification around Barachalla. £800 was levied on inhabitants for these works, with the Franciscans supplying stone and materials.

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were afterwards removed, by the governor, to the west suburbs, for the better security of the town. 12 Jn April following the mayor received directions, by order of the king in council, " to put out of the court of aldermen and common council, such Protestants and disaffected men as should appear to him to be such, and to send their names presently to Dublin." Commissioners soon after arrived to view the state of the town, who directed several repairs to be made on the walls, and a fortification to be built round Barachalla. For these works 800/. were, on the 3d and I 1th of July, ordered to be levied on the inhabitants. The community of St. Francis supplied stone and other materials; and the remainder of that year and part of the next were consumed in their completion.
The eventful day that was to decide the fate of the town was now drawing nigh. On the 12th of July, 1691, the hostile armies of the two contending monarchs met on the memorable plains of Aughrim, whence the noise of their cannon might be easily heard at its gates. It is not our intention to enter into a description of the sanguinary and decisive engagement which here took place : the awful news of its result was known that night in the town, whither several of the fugitives fled for shelter. The alarm of the inhabitants may be easily conceived to have been extreme, and every preparation was made for defence. Many, however, were so panic-struck, that they would have compromised for their safety by immediately surrendering almost on any terms. Lord Dillon, the governor, the French lieutenant general D'Ussone, and the other officers of rank in the town, immediately held a council of war. It appeared that the town, though strong and well stored with provisions, was deficient in men and arms, which were drawn away by degrees to supply other exigencies. The garrison consisted but of seven regiments of foot with a few troops of horse, and these neither full nor well armed; but their great dependance was on the promises of Balldearg O'Donnell, whom they

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 127

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this is where the events of 1690 and 1691 left their mark on the town. In April of 1690, the mayor received orders from the king in council to remove from the court of aldermen and common council any Protestants and disaffected men, and to send their names presently to Dublin. Commissioners soon arrived to view the state of the town. They directed several repairs to be made on the walls, and a fortification to be built round Barachalla. For these works, £800 was ordered on the 3rd and 11th of July to be levied on the inhabitants. The community of St. Francis supplied stone and other materials, and the remainder of that year and part of the next were consumed in completing the works. The eventful day that was to decide the fate of the town was now drawing nigh. On the 12th of July, 1691, the hostile armies of the two contending monarchs met on the plains of Aughrim, and the noise of their cannon could be easily heard at the gates of Galway. The awful news of its result was known that night in the town, where several fugitives fled for shelter. The alarm of the inhabitants was extreme, and every preparation was made for defence. Many were so panic-struck that they would have compromised for their safety by surrendering almost on any terms. Lord Dillon, the governor, the French lieutenant general D'Ussone, and the other officers of rank in the town held a council of war. The town, though strong and well stored with provisions, was deficient in men and arms, which had been drawn away by degrees to supply other needs. The garrison consisted of seven regiments of foot with a few troops of horse, neither full nor well armed, and their great dependence was on the promises of Balldearg O'Donnell.

Founding of the Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas, Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1320

The present church of St. Nicholas was founded in 1320 on the site of a small chapel that had been the only place of worship for the early settlers of Galway. It was dedicated to St. Nicholas of Myra, patron saint of mariners, reflecting the town's early commerce. The structure was gradually enlarged by individual benefactors until it became one of the finest ecclesiastical structures in Ireland.

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ders, the former inhabitants of Galway. It is situate on a gentle eminence, nearly on the north-west extremity of the town, and contiguous to the river, on the site of a small chapel, which was the original and only place of worship belonging to the settlers, until, their wealth and affluence having increased with their industry and trade, they resolved to adorn the town by erecting a more superb structure for the service of the Deity. The present church was accordingly founded in 1320, and, on its completion, was solemnly dedicated to St. Nicholas of Myra, the tutelar saint of mariners, who was chosen as the patron of the town in consequence of its early and extensive commerce. The original foundation was gradually enlarged by the piety of individual benefactors, until, in course of time, it became one of the finest ecclesiastical structures in Ireland.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 192

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are near the church of St. Nicholas, which stands on a gentle rise toward the north-west of the town, close by the river. The first settlers here had only a small chapel for worship, but as their trade and wealth grew they resolved to build something finer. The present church was founded in 1320 and dedicated to St. Nicholas of Myra, the patron saint of mariners, chosen because of the town's early and extensive commerce. Individual benefactors gradually enlarged the original foundation over the years until, in time, it became one of the finest ecclesiastical structures in Ireland.

French officers of Irish birth present in Galway

Galway · city · Galway

Several French officers of Irish birth and extraction were present in Galway town with their relations, prompting security concerns about keeping the gates locked. Two Irish officers named Burke from Dillon's regiment, captured at Culloden, and one Sarsfield of Lally's regiment were reported as appearing publicly in town.

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Having thus shewn how neither the trade, commerce, markets or fairdealing inhabitants could be injured or inconvenienced by locking the town gates, the advantages which attended the measure were next to be considered. It was of service to his majesty's revenue, by preventing private brewing and distilling, and operated as a check upon smugglers, who would otherwise convey unentered goods into and out of the town. It was a great security to the garrison from suprise, for no man could pass through the wickets unquestioned by the sentinel, and, for that reason, would be a restraint on ill-designing men, and French recruiters, from coming into the town. All strangers were examined at the gates, a caution which could not be observed so effectually in the night time, when a crowd might rush in through a wide gateway, and these precautions were at the time absolutely necessary, as several French officers, of Irish birth and extraction, were then in town with their relations. 2 There was also every probability that the
2. About this time it was also represen- who were made prisoners at Culloden, apted, that two Irish officers of the name of peared publicly in town ; and that one Sars- Burke, belonging to Dillon's regiment, field, (of Lally's regiment,) an avowed

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 147

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this was a town that once kept its gates locked tight. The concern was French officers of Irish birth and extraction, who were in town visiting their relations. Strangers were examined at the gates, and sentries questioned anyone passing through the wickets, because these officers moved publicly in the streets. The authorities feared French recruiters slipping in among them. Two Irish officers named Burke, belonging to Dillon's regiment, had been taken prisoner at Culloden and were now appearing openly in town. There was also one Sarsfield of Lally's regiment, described as an avowed figure. The locked gates served his majesty's revenue too, stopping private brewing and distilling and checking smugglers moving unentered goods in and out. But the pressing worry was surprise, the fear that ill-designing men might rush a wide gateway at night when a crowd could push through before anyone could stop them.

Galway church plate confiscated in French Revolution

Galway · city · Galway

Sacred utensils and church plate from Galway, valued at over £500, were conveyed to France and deposited in the Irish college at Paris. They remained there until the French Revolution, when they were seized and confiscated.

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On the surrender of the town in 1691, the church was delivered up to the established clergy by John Bodkin Fitz-Andrew, who was then, and for many years after, Catholic warden. 38 The several chapels and altars, shortly before repaired and erected, were immediately broken down, and the interior was again fitted up for the administration of divine service according to the rites of the established religion. By the articles of capitulation it was stipulated that the Roman Catholic clergy and laity of Galway should be secured in the private exercise of their religion, and that the former should be also protected in the persons and goods. Upon that event the Catholic corporation secretly assembled and, with the concurrence of the warden and chapter, divided the town and suburbs into separa'^ districts or distinct parishes-^; which division has continued with very little alteration to the present day. Warden Bodkin was succeeded by the reverend Edmund Lynch^O; and the persecutions against the Catholics raging violently during his wardenship, the scattered remnants of the collegiate property were collected and privately transmitted to France. Here they were converted into money, which was placed at interest; and the fund having in a few years considerably increased by donations and bequests, was applied to the purchase of an income in Paris, which was annually remitted to Galway, and divided amongst the warden and vicars for their support.! The sacred utensils and other church plate, then valued to be worth upwards of £500, were also conveyed to France, and deposited in the Irish college at Paris, wehere they remained until the period of the French Revolution, when they were seized and confiscated. During the incumbency of warden Lynch, and also of his successor, Patrick Skerrett

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 208

As the companion tells it

As you pass through the city of Galway, its churches carry a history of confiscation and exile. In 1691, on the surrender of the town, the church was delivered up to the established clergy by John Bodkin Fitz-Andrew, who was then, and for many years after, Catholic warden. The chapels and altars, shortly before repaired and erected, were immediately broken down, and the interior fitted up for divine service according to the rites of the established religion. The articles of capitulation had stipulated that the Roman Catholic clergy and laity of Galway should be secured in the private exercise of their religion, and that the clergy should be protected in their persons and goods. On that, the Catholic corporation secretly assembled and, with the concurrence of the warden and chapter, divided the town and suburbs into separate districts or distinct parishes, a division that has continued with little alteration to the present day. Warden Bodkin was succeeded by the reverend Edmund Lynch, and the persecutions against the Catholics raging violently during his wardenship, the scattered remnants of the collegiate property were collected and privately transmitted to France. There they were converted into money and placed at interest. The fund increased by donations and bequests and was applied to the purchase of an income in Paris, annually remitted to Galway and divided amongst the warden and vicars for their support. The sacred utensils and other church plate, then valued at upwards of £500, were also conveyed to France and deposited in the Irish college at Paris, where they remained until the French Revolution, when they were seized and confiscated.

Grass in Galway streets until Catholic Relief bill of 1793

Galway · city · Galway

Until the Catholic bill of 1793, grass frequently grew in many of the public streets of Galway, indicating the forlorn and stagnant condition of the town. After that period the inhabitants began to exert themselves and the town extended beyond its walls.

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

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 156

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this is a town that once stood still. Until the Catholic bill of 1793, grass frequently grew in many of its public streets, a sign of how forlorn and stagnant the place had become. Before that, no commercial exertions were made and no improvements undertaken. The public mind seemed occupied by parliamentary electioneering alone, with contested elections in 1783 and 1790 doing very little to benefit the town or county. After the bill of 1793, the inhabitants began to exert themselves. The limits of the town were soon extended beyond the walls, and several buildings were erected in the east and west.

Guild charters granted to Galway tradesmen

Galway · city · Galway · 1688

In 1688, on the petition of Joseph Flin, new charters were granted to Galway's guilds of joiners, masons, shipwrights, plasterers, turners, slaters, sawyers, upholsterers, millers and millwrights, and shortly after to tallow-chandlers, soap-boilers and smiths. Natives entitled to their freedom could then be sworn before the mayor without fees.

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On the petition of Joseph Flin, master of the joyners, masons, shipp-wrights) plasterers, turners, slaters, sawyers, upholsterers, millers and millwrights, a new charter was granted to those different guilds, and a similar one soon after to the company of tallow-chandlers, soap-boilers and smiths. It was afterwards ordered, that all the natives( and others, who were entitled to their freedom, might, at any time, attend before the mayor, and be sworn without fees.
12. This mayor (the only Catholic that filled the office since 1654) was the first proprietor of his name, of the ancient estate of Castle-Hackett, which originally belonged to the Hacketj, family. — Vide page 16, note. — By inquisition taken 29th Jan. 1584, it was' found, "that Ulic Mac Redmond Mac Moyler died on the 22nd Sept. 1571, seized, of the castles of Castle- Hackett and Cahire-Morris ; but that Mc. Hackett, the chief of his name, and others of the sept of the Hacketts, claim the aforesaid castle of Castle-Hackett, with the two quarters of land adjoining." — Rem. Off. — This ancient sept was also driven to Mayo after 1641, and is now nearly extinct.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 181

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are on ground where, in 1688, a wave of new guild charters transformed the town's trades. Joseph Flin, master of the joiners, masons, shipwrights, plasterers, turners, slaters, sawyers, upholsterers, millers and millwrights, petitioned for and won a new charter for those guilds. A similar one followed soon after for the tallow-chandlers, soap-boilers and smiths. After that, all natives and others entitled to their freedom could attend before the mayor and be sworn without fees. The mayor at that time was the only Catholic to hold the office since 1654, and the first proprietor of his name of the ancient estate of Castle-Hackett, which had belonged to the Hackett family. An inquisition of 1584 found that the Hacketts claimed Castle-Hackett and its lands, but the sept was driven to Mayo after 1641 and is now nearly extinct.

Henry VIII ordinances for Galway, 1536

Galway · city · Galway · 1536

After Limerick informants told Henry VIII that Galway had adopted Irish customs and assisted the Irish, the King sent ordinances dated 28 April 1536 to Galway, satisfied with the town's fidelity but commanding the extirpation of all abuses among the inhabitants.

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The importation of this article formed, from a very early period, the most considerable feature in the foreign commerce of the town; and our annals assert that more wine was, for a considerable period of time, annually imported into Galway than into all the other parts of the kingdom. 26 As the Ormond family was entitled, by a grant from King Edw. III. to the prisage of all wines brought into Ireland, viz. one tun out of every nine, and two out of every twenty, the loss to them, in consequence of its retention in Galway, was very considerable. The earl made the demand in the year 1526, and the town resisted payment. His lordship then made complaint, before the lords of the Star Chamber in England; agents attended on the part of the town; the question was solemnly debated; and, after mature deliberation, it was decreed, that "Inasmuch as the earl could not prov® that either King Edward III. under whose grant he claimed, or any other before the grant, or himself, or any of his ancestors, received any prise wines of any stranger or denipen, by any prerogative, custom or other law in the town of Galway, so the town and corporation should p^y no prisage, custom or toll unto the King, or any other person, other than they have used to pay in times past. "27 This decision, which was so favorable to the town, caused great rejoicings amongst the inhabitants, but had a contrary effect on the people of Limerick, who, irrigated at the success of their rivals, dispatched private information to Henry VIII. that Galway had degenerated into the manners and customs of the Irish, with whom they corresponded, and to whom they afforded every assistance. This new attempt to injure the town also failed; for the King, depending on its well-known fidelity, was satisfied, without further inquiry, by sending over certain instructions, dated 28th April, 1536, 28 that tKe inhabitants should

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 71

As the companion tells it

As you come through Galway, this is a town whose wine trade once mattered more than anywhere else in the kingdom. More wine came into Galway each year than into all the other parts of Ireland put together. The Ormond family claimed a right to a share of it, by a grant from Edward the Third, one tun out of every nine and two out of every twenty. The earl made the demand in 1526, and the town refused to pay. He took the complaint to the Star Chamber in England. Agents came on behalf of the town. The question was solemnly debated, and the decision went Galway's way. The decree held that since the earl could not prove that Edward the Third, or any of his ancestors, had ever received prise wines in Galway, the town and corporation should pay no prisage, custom, or toll other than they had used to pay in times past. Galway rejoiced. Limerick did not. Irritated at the success of their rivals, the people of Limerick dispatched private information to Henry the Eighth that Galway had degenerated into the manners and customs of the Irish, with whom they corresponded and to whom they afforded every assistance. This attempt to injure the town also failed. The King, depending on Galway's well-known fidelity, was satisfied without further inquiry, and sent over certain instructions dated the 28th of April 1536.

Merchants abandoning Galway town for the country

Galway · city · Galway · 1586–1590

Galway's by-laws from 1586 to 1590 observed that many merchants and craftsmen had left their town mansions to live in the country, avoiding local taxes and tallages. The corporation sought to compel them to return and dwell in the town or face fines.

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That many merchaunts and handy-craftes men have relinquished their mansions in towne, and keape themselves in the countrie without answering tax and talladge, scott and lott within this towne f from tyme to tyme, as apereth by the names in Nicholas Linche, the town clerke, his booke ; and, to prevent the same, it is good to establish that every of them do come to dwell in towne, or otherwise to order a fyne lesse ther libertie as apeirteine.
That a more straighter order be taken to barr the making of aquavite of corne then heitherunto hath been used, for that the same is a consumation of all the provition of corne in the comon wealthe.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 171

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this was a town that saw many of its merchants and craftsmen walk away from their town mansions between 1586 and 1590. They kept themselves out in the country to avoid paying tax and tallage, as the town clerk Nicholas Linche recorded in his book. The corporation moved to stop it, ordering every one of them to come back and dwell in town or face a fine for their liberty. The records also note concern about the making of aquavite from corn, said to be a consumption of all the provision of corn in the common wealth.

Mutton Island battery recommended, 1747

Mutton Island · townland · Galway · 1747

Governor Eyre recommended re-erecting a battery formerly on Mutton Island to protect Galway harbour, using spare cannon from the town, and rebuilding the small barrack there that had housed half a company of soldiers.

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In the year 1 747, Stratford Eyre was appointed governor of the town and port, and vice-admiral of the province. This gentleman, soon after his appointment, made several returns to government of the state and condition of the town, together with the port, harbour, and surrounding fortifications. From these documents, which contain many local particulars long since forgotten, it appears, that the fortifications were then entirely out of repair, and in a ruinous condition. In one return he stated that the gates were all decayed, and particularly that the gate at the parade quay had entirely fallen to the ground. From the royal battery to the quay bastion, a distance of twelve hundred and eighty feet, there were several breachs in the parapets, which rendered it dangerous and unsafe to post sentinels on tnat part of the walls. Between the west gate and Lyons tower, a distance of 1240ft., several holes were broke through, and cross walls were raised as high as the parapets, to inclose and shut in several back yards, the better to conceal prohibitive goods. From the Lyons tower to the royal nine-gun battery, at William's gate, there was a breach quite to the ground, in length one hundred and fifty-five feet; and there was no passage whatever for drawing artillery to the north bastion, or any communication or way for the relief, but by stepping across the embrasures over William's gate. The walls in many places were bulged and might be easily scaled; the platforms were broke up and sunk, and the embrasures filled up and covered with dire and weeds. The walls of the castle and citadel barracks were very much out of repair, and in some places it was not safe for a sentinel to stand on them, and the citadel bastion (which was the only part of the town the then small garrison could hope to maintain or defend, if attacked by an enemy without, or an insurrection within,) was quite unserviceable. In this state the smallest privateer might sail into the harbour and insult the garrison with impunity, and no assistance could be given from the town to any ship, if attacked in the bay. It was then recommended that the most effectual means to protect and secure the harbour would be to re_erect the battery formerly on Mutton-island, for which there were sufficient cannon to spare in the town, and to rebuild the small barrack which stood there for half a company of soldiers. By another return, dated the 23rd October, 1747, it appears that no part of the Lyons tower was then remaining but the walls, though, if repaired, Tt would be of essential service in defending the town; that the nine-gun battery and the south bastion were in a defenceless state; and that it would be absolutely necessary for the defence of the town that they should be repaired, as they were the only works pointing to Fort-hill (where the fort had been formerly erected, of which nothing then remained but the ruins of a guard-house,) against which, if possessed by an enemy with artillery, the town would not be tenable. From the royal battery to the quay bastion, along the curtain, there were several breaches (wide enough to receive hogsheads,) made by smugglers who inhabited the adjacent houses; and on this curtain

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 143

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, on Mutton Island in Galway, Governor Stratford Eyre recommended in 1747 that a battery formerly standing on the island should be re-erected to protect the harbour. Eyre had been appointed governor of the town and port that year, and he made several returns to government on the state of the fortifications, which he found entirely out of repair. The walls of Galway were bulged, the platforms broken up, the embrasures filled with weeds, and the gates decayed. He wrote that the smallest privateer might sail into the harbour and insult the garrison with impunity, and no assistance could be given from the town to any ship attacked in the bay. To secure the harbour, he said the most effectual means would be to rebuild the battery on Mutton Island, for which there were sufficient cannon to spare in the town, and to rebuild the small barrack that had stood there for half a company of soldiers.

Nicholas Lynch built Lynch's Aisle at St. Nicholas's Church

Galway · city · Galway · 1554

Nicholas Lynch Fitz-Stephen, mayor of Galway in 1554, repaired the works formerly erected by his grandfather Dominick Lynch and afterwards built the adjoining tower and south aisle of St. Nicholas's Church, then called 'Our Lady's Chapel' but later known as Lynch's Aisle.

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About this time many considerable additions were made to the church by Nicholas Lynch Fitz-Stephen, grandson of Dominick Lynch, whose munificence has already been recorded. Nicholas was mayor in 1554; and, having repaired the works formerly erected by his grandfather, he afterwards built the adjoining tower and sou*:h aisle, then called " Our Ladis'e Chapel.' but now better known by the name of Lynch's Aisle. — These were
15 Under this grant the wardens have ever since retained possession of these burial grounds, which they generally farmed out to undertakers, whose charges for interment were as follow:

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 198

As the companion tells it

As you come into Galway, St. Nicholas's Church holds a piece of the Lynch family's mark. Nicholas Lynch Fitz-Stephen was mayor here in 1554. He repaired the works his grandfather Dominick Lynch had built, then added the adjoining tower and south aisle. The aisle was called 'Our Lady's Chapel' but later became known as Lynch's Aisle.

Non-tribes parishioners' resolutions at Augustinian chapel

Galway · city · Galway

The non-tribes parishioners of Galway assembled in the Augustinian chapel on 25 September and passed resolutions declaring the bull of 1484 had been perverted by the 13 tribes. They pledged to withhold all dues from clergy of the tribes' appointment and to attend prayers at other Galway chapels, as the parish chapel had been shut against them.

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tribes then cautioned the vicars against instituting the clergy elected by their opponents, concluding with these words : — "We charge your consciences, as we shall yourselves at a superior tribunal, to account for instituting any person not properly qualified or legally chosen." — They then transmitted a petition to Rome, and,' on the 25th September following, again assembled in the Augustinian chapel and resolved— "That the bull of 1484, which was originally intended by Innocent VIII. for the general benefit, peace, harmony and unity at all times of the citizens of Galway, was shamefully perverted by the party stiling themselves the 13 tribes (and the clergy of their appointment), the remnant of a decayed colony. — That as the parish chapel has been on two different occasions shut against us, both by the clergy and thirteen names, we will in future attend prayers at some other of of the Galway chapels. — That the conduct of the clergy of said chapel on this occasion has been insidious, petulant and partial, and that they have not. in any cne instance, evinced a desire of causing a reconciliation between the parishioners on just, equal and honourable terms ; but, on the. contrary, openly countenanced the usurped claim of the thirteen names to the exclusive privilege of election, in violation of the express words, intent and meaning of the bull of 1484, which ought to be the rule of their conduct, without prejudice or partiality to either party. — That as the said thirteen names assume the exclusive privilege of electing the Galway clergy, it is but reasonable also they should take on them the burthen of their support ; and, on our part, we pledge ourselves to each other most solemnly, that we will not directly or indirectly, contribute any longer towards the support of the clergy of their appointment, particularly by withholding from them marriage-plate and

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 213

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are near the Augustinian chapel, where on the 25th of September the non-tribes parishioners assembled and passed a set of resolutions. They declared that the bull of 1484, originally intended by Innocent the 8th for the general benefit, peace, harmony and unity of the citizens of Galway, had been shamefully perverted by the party calling themselves the 13 tribes, and the clergy of their appointment, whom they described as the remnant of a decayed colony. They stated that the parish chapel had been shut against them on two different occasions, both by the clergy and the thirteen names, and resolved that they would in future attend prayers at some other of the Galway chapels. They accused the clergy of that chapel of insidious, petulant and partial conduct, saying they had not in any instance shown a desire to bring about a reconciliation between the parishioners on just, equal and honourable terms, but had openly countenanced the usurped claim of the thirteen names to the exclusive privilege of election. This, they said, violated the express words, intent and meaning of the bull of 1484, which ought to be the rule of conduct without prejudice or partiality to either party. They then argued that if the thirteen names assumed the exclusive privilege of electing the Galway clergy, it was reasonable they should bear the burden of their support. On their part, they pledged to each other most solemnly that they would not directly or indirectly contribute any longer towards the support of the clergy of that appointment, particularly by withholding from them marriage-plate and other dues.

Oath of union sworn by townsmen of Galway

Galway · city · Galway

The townsmen of Galway took a solemn oath of union professing loyalty to King Charles while vowing to uphold the Roman Catholic religion, the common laws, Magna Charta, and the rights and liberties of the corporation of Galway.

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In the name of God, and the Blessed Virgin Mary, and of the whole court of Heaven. I, A W do profess, testify and declare in my conscience, that our sovereign, lord King Charles is, the lawful sovereign, lord and king of this kingdom, and all other his kingdoms and dominions ; and that I will bear true faith and allegiance unto him, his heirs, and lawful successors, and him and them, and the lawful rights and prerogatives of his crown, against all foreign power, states and potentates, and against all traitorous practices will uphold, maintain and defend, as far, as in me lyeth.
I do further profess, promise and avow, to uphold, maintain and defend, to the utmost of my power, the Roman catholic religion ; and that I will not wilingly do, or suffer to be done, any harm or prejudice to any Roman catholic that shall join in this union, in his life, "liberty, lands, goods or chatties, either for fear, hope of reward, revenge or malice ; and that if any sh»,x. oppress or wrong any that shall take this oath, I will take the wrong done unto myself, and, as far as in me lyeth, will labour to get the party so wronged fit

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 94

As the companion tells it

As the road passes through Galway, this is where the townsmen once swore an oath of union. It was a solemn oath, made in the name of God, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the whole court of Heaven. Each man who took it professed in his conscience that King Charles was the lawful sovereign of this kingdom and all his other dominions. He pledged to bear true faith and allegiance to the king, his heirs, and his lawful successors, and to uphold and defend the lawful rights and prerogatives of his crown against all foreign powers and against all traitorous practices, as far as in him lay. Then came the further promise. Each man vowed to uphold, maintain, and defend to the utmost of his power the Roman Catholic religion. He swore he would willingly do no harm, nor suffer harm to be done, to any Roman Catholic who joined in this union, whether to his life, liberty, lands, goods, or chattels, not for fear, not for hope of reward, not for revenge or malice. And if any man oppressed or wronged one who had taken this oath, the man who swore took that wrong as done to himself, and would labour, as far as in him lay, to get the wronged party justice.

Richard de Burgo fortifies Galway and appoints magistrate

Galway · city · Galway · 1233

After recovering Galway, Richard de Burgo fortified it against Irish incursions and appointed a magistrate, called indiscriminately a provost or bailiff, who governed the inhabitants by established laws. Galway became the principal residence of the De Burgos and the capital of the province.

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the spirited resistance of Fedhlim and his adherents, he at length summoned all his forces, and in 1232, succeeded in driving that unfortunate prince from the province; and, continuing his success, he finally took his prisoner, and established Hugh O'Conor in his place. The town and castle of Galway on this occasion, fell into his hands, and having then discovered the great importance of the place, he, in the same year, built several considerable additions to the castle. Fedhlim, having immediately after, regained his liberty and kingdom, by the death of Hugh, which took place in 1233; laid siege to Galway, and having succeeded in taking the castle, he demolished all the new works : but his powerful antagonist, Richard de Bur go, soon after recovered the town, and thenceforth it became the principal residence of himself and his descendants, 19 and finally the capital of the province, which it still continues to be. He then fortified it against the incursions of the Irish, and appointed a magistrate, who was indiscriminately called a provost or bailiff, and who governed the inhabitants by established laws.
Fedhlim O'Conor preserved his ideal title, and with it, a scanty remnant of the kingdom of his ancestors, until the year 1265,20 when he

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 46

As the companion tells it

Coming through Galway now. This city was fought over bitterly in the 1230s. Richard de Burgo had driven Fedhlim O'Conor from the province and put Hugh O'Conor in his place, and the town and castle of Galway fell into his hands. Seeing how important the place was, he built several considerable additions to the castle in 1232. But Fedhlim regained his liberty and his kingdom when Hugh died in 1233, and he laid siege to Galway, took the castle, and demolished all the new works. Richard de Burgo soon recovered the town, and from then on it became the principal residence of himself and his descendants, and finally the capital of the province. He fortified it against the incursions of the Irish, and appointed a magistrate, called indiscriminately a provost or bailiff, who governed the inhabitants by established laws. Fedhlim O'Conor held on to his title and a scanty remnant of the kingdom of his ancestors until 1265.

Security crackdown in Galway during 1745 Scottish rebellion

Galway · city · Galway · 1745

During the 1745 Scottish rebellion, old prejudices against Catholics revived in Galway. All persons entering or leaving the town underwent inspection, the town gates were closed daily at four in the afternoon, and strict military discipline was established in the garrison.

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

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 142

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this is a town where old fears returned during the Scottish rebellion of 1745. Old prejudices against the Catholics were revived for a while. Every person entering or leaving the town underwent inspection. The gates, which had remained open until 10 o'clock at night, were closed every day at four in the afternoon. The strictest military discipline was established in the garrison. These precautions came after years of concern about the town's readiness. In 1743, an order issued for 1,000 muskets and bayonets for the town and county. Of these, 250 were delivered to the militia by Colonel Wynne, then governor of the town. A return of the ordnance in the garrison showed 93 pieces of cannon in the town, but almost the entire number were dismounted and unserviceable. The precautions of 1745 were laid aside soon after the rebellion passed. What the source calls the last and most violent gasp of expiring bigotry had run its course, and the Catholic population of Galway, with very few exceptions, remained unmolested on account of their religion.

St. Endeus and early Christian foundations on Aran

Innismore · street · Dublin · 400–546

In the fifth century, Óengus, king of Cashel, granted the great island of Arran to St. Endeus, who built ten monasteries and thirteen churches on it. The principal foundation was called Kill-Enda, and the island became known as Ara na Naoimh, or Ara of the Saints, due to the great number of holy men and hermits interred there.

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

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 258

As the companion tells it

Along here are the remains linked to St. Endeus and the early Christian foundations on Aran. In the fifth century, Óengus, king of Cashel, granted the great island of Arran to St. Endeus, who built ten monasteries and thirteen churches on it. The principal foundation was called Kill-Enda, named after him. Before Endeus, the island had already seen Christian worship. St. Iber, one of four bishops sent to preach the Christian faith in Ireland, made his residence there in 412, before the arrival of St. Patrick. The island itself became known as Ara na Naoimh, the Ara of the Saints, because so many holy men and hermits were interred there. The writer of the Life of St. Kieran declared that the number of the dead was known only to the Almighty God alone.

Townswomen bury executed Spaniards (tradition)

Galway · city · Galway

According to Lynch in Vita Kirovani, the dead bodies of the executed Spaniards were carefully wrapped in fine linen by the women of Galway and committed to burial. Only two Spaniards escaped death, being concealed in the town and later safely conveyed to Spain.

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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.
17 "As soon as he entered the city, four great pieces of ordnance was discharged." — MS. account of his journey pjeserved in Lambeth library, No. 62.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 83

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, there's a grim tradition from Lynch's Vita Kirovani. After Spaniards were executed here, the women of Galway carefully wrapped the dead bodies in fine linen and buried them. Only two Spaniards escaped death. They were hidden in the town for a long time, then safely conveyed back to Spain.

War between Eogan More and Con-Cead-Chathach over Galway revenues

Galway · city · Galway · 100–200

In the second century, a war arose between the princes Eogan More and Con-Cead-Chathach over an equal dividend of the revenues of Dublin and Galway. The conflict indicates that Galway was already a place of note at that early period.

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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

As you pass through Galway, you are travelling through a town that was a chief point of division in the various partitions of Ireland. In the second century, war broke out between two princes, Eogan More and Con-Cead-Chathach. The cause was an equal dividend of the revenues of Dublin and Galway. The fact that Galway's revenues were worth fighting over shows it was already a place of note at that early period. Earlier still, it had been a dividing point in the partition of Ireland by Heber and Heremon. Its origin is uncertain. It has been suggested that Galway was the Nagnata described by Ptolemy, though those accounts have been doubted.

Warden election revives tribal conflict in Galway, 1791

Galway · city · Galway · 1791

A severe contest for the wardenship between Reverend Patrick Kirwan and Reverend John Joyes saw Joyes elected by a large majority, largely through non-resident voters. The election revived the old disputes between the 'tribes' and 'non-tribes' of Galway, which had lain dormant for over half a century, and several non-tribes members protested the proceedings.

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At this time the situation of the Catholics of Ireland was very different from what it had been at any former period since the reign of James II. The day of persecution had now passed away, and this meritorious, though long suffering, body at length found themselves under the protection of the laws, and in the enjoyment of the public and undisturbed exercise of their religion. Immediately on the decease of warden Kirwan, the principal Catholics of Galway, composed entirely of the ancient names and families, assembled for the purpose of new-modelling the ancient Catholic corporation;? after which they proceeded to the election of a warden in the room of their late venerable pastor. On this occasion there were two candidates for the wardenship, the reverend Patrick Kirwan and the reverend John Joyes, nephew of the former warden of that name, and, after a severe contest, the latter was chosen by a large majority. 8 During these proceedings, the old disputes between the "tribes" and "non-tribes," which had lain dormant for upwards of half a century, were revived with considerable animosity. 9
7 The resolutions entered into upon this occasion were as follow : —

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 211

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a city where an old quarrel broke out again in 1791. The warden had died, and the principal Catholics of Galway, drawn entirely from the ancient names and families, assembled to elect a new one. Two candidates stood for the wardenship: Reverend Patrick Kirwan and Reverend John Joyes, nephew of the former warden of that name. After a severe contest, Joyes was chosen by a large majority. What is striking is that the election revived the old disputes between the tribes and the non-tribes of Galway, which had lain dormant for upwards of half a century, and they returned, as the record says, "with considerable animosity." The tribes were the ancient merchant families who had long dominated the town, and the non-tribes were those outside that old circle. A disagreement over a warden's election was enough to wake a division that had slept for over fifty years.

West gate draw-bridge and guard-room, Galway

Galway · city · Galway

At the west of Galway town there was formerly a draw-bridge over the gateway, with a guard-room above it. This was repaired and fitted up for a corporal and six men, as the west gate was the only entrance from Iar-Connaught.

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there were two projecting flankers which might be repaired at a small expense; and if three guns were mounted on that called "the Devil's Battery," they would be essentially serviceable in defending the curtain. The quay bastion (from whence alone an enemy in the port might be annoyed with ordnance, and which also covered the bridge, and was the only place for defending the town in case of an attack from the west,) was rendered useless by encroachments and buildings erected on it. Beyond this there was another bastion called "the Quay Canton," of which the platform was tolerable; and from the quay bastion to the end of the curtain, behind the county gaol, the wall was good. At the extremity of this there was room to erect a small battery, which might be of great service in covering the west gate, and defending the town if attacked from that quarter, this being the only entrance from Iar-Connaught, (the highlands of the country,) which was inhabited by a people whom it would be prudent to guard against, and to have a watchful eye over, and which was the most likely place in this part of Ireland for an enemy to make a descent on. From thence to the bridge the town wall broke off, and that space was closed by mills, tan-yards and dwelling-houses. The river ran by in a sharp current, and there were several windows and doors which opened to the water, through which people had admittance to town when the gates were locked; but the governor, on seeing some passing that way, had them stopped up. At the west there was formerly a draw-bridge, and over the gateway a guard-room, which was repaired and fitted up for a corporal and six men. At the lower yard of the condemned barrack, adjoining the bridge, a battery might be erected, which would also secure the bridge. From thence to Abbey-gate, and along to Lyons tower, there was a very decayed and weak old wall, by which the river ran in a shallow channel as far as the Abbey-gate. There were no flankers or towers in all that space, but there were several holes open for the conveniency of running goods, which the governor had closed up. From Sander s-lane to Lyons tower there was a rampart fourteen feet broad, in the memory of several persons then living, but no trace thereof remained; it had been thrown into gardens at the back of Lombardstreet, and nothing was left but the walls, which were scarce broad enough for a single person to walk upon. There were two powder magazines, one in Lombard-street and one in the Citadel, both of which were very insecure, and unsafe places to keep powder in, being the loftiest of all the surrounding houses, and so remarkably conspicious that they might be distinguished from the other buildings at the distance of a mile from either side of the town, added to which they were not bomb-proof. The dilapidated state of the walls was attributed to "breaches made at different times by unregistered Papist merchants, (who, by express laws, had been prohibited from living within the town or liberties,) the more effectually to run goods and to carry on the smuggling trade;" but it was added, "that if the money arising from the tolls and customs were applied to their repair, they would be kept in a respectable and good state of defence." In order to prevent further encroachments on the w^lls or injury to the fortification?,

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 144

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the old west gate once stood as the only entrance from Iar-Connaught, the highlands of the country, to the west. There was a draw-bridge there, and over the gateway a guard-room, repaired and fitted up for a corporal and six men. The west mattered because it was the most likely place in this part of Ireland for an enemy to make a descent. The quay bastion, from which alone an enemy in the port could be annoyed with ordnance, also covered the bridge and was the only position for defending the town against an attack from that quarter. But it had been rendered useless by encroachments and buildings erected on it. From the bastion to the bridge the town wall broke off, and that space was closed by mills, tan-yards and dwelling-houses. The river ran by in a sharp current. Several windows and doors opened to the water, through which people had admittance to the town when the gates were locked. The governor, on seeing some passing that way, had them stopped up. Beyond the bridge the wall ran on, decayed and weak, with no flankers or towers, but with several holes left open for running goods, which the governor also had closed. The dilapidated state of the walls was attributed to breaches made at different times by unregistered Papist merchants, who by express laws had been prohibited from living within the town or liberties, the more effectually to run goods and carry on the smuggling trade.

Claddagh fishermen's monopoly over Galway Bay

near Galway Bay · bay · Clare

The Claddagh fishermen viewed Galway Bay as their exclusive domain and acted with a monopolizing spirit. They prevented boats from other districts from fishing there without the concurrence of the Claddagh body.

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the inner bay alone: and though they sometimes exhibit a great shew of industry, they are still so wedded to old customs that they invariably reject, with the most inveterate prejudice, any new improvement in their fishing apparatus, which is consequently now very little superior to that used centuries ago by their ancestors. The consequence is that the great mass of wealth which here lies engulfed in the bosom of the deep has been hitherto but partially explored; and the riches which yearly flow into this extensive inlet of the ocean are suffered again to depart through the indolence, and sometimes superstitious prejudices, of this otherwise useful and meritorious body of men. When they do not themselves think proper to fish, they invariably prevent every other from attempting it, viewing, with all the monopolizing spirit of any corporation, the bay as their exclusive domain, on which, to use their own words, they never admit any trespasser; and, therefore, should a single boat from any other district venture out to fish without the concurrence of the Claddagh body, it does so at the
times their loyalty has never been questioned, and they are exempt from all government taxes. Their mayor is no way distinguished from any of the other villagers, except that his boat is generally decorated with a white sail, and may be seen when at sea (at which time he acts as admiral), with colours flying at tho mast-bead, gliding through their fleet with some appearanc<> of authority. As fishing and farming are seldom followed by the same individual, the labours of these people are solely confined to the sea. Their only occupation is fishing ; they never trouble themselves with tillage ; a milch cow and a potato garden are equally rare among them.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 236

Anthony Blake of Dunmacreena elected warden, built chapel

Middle Street · street · Galway · 1752

Anthony Blake of Dunmacreena, later titular Archbishop of Armagh and Catholic Primate, was elected warden in place of Marcus Kirwan. He erected the parish chapel in Middle Street, Galway, around 1752.

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

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 210

As the companion tells it

On this street in Galway, Anthony Blake of Dunmacreena erected the parish chapel about 1752. Blake had been elected warden in place of Marcus Kirwan of Dalgan. Kirwan had himself been elected after the death of the reverend Hyacinth Bodkin, a pious and learned divine who survived only a short time, having died in 1749. But Kirwan gave some dissatisfaction to the lay-patrons, and Blake was elected in his place. It is said that this was the only instance in which any of the wardens had been dispossessed since the Reformation. Blake went on to become titular Archbishop of Armagh and Catholic Primate of Ireland. He was succeeded as warden in 1755 by Francis Kirwan, who filled the chair with honour to himself and benefit to the town until his death in June 1770. After Kirwan's death the reverend John Joyes of Oxford in the county of Mayo was elected. He continued as warden until February 1783, when he died, leaving behind the reputation of a good and pious pastor, always zealous in the cause of religion, and particularly so in the reproval of public vice and immorality. He was succeeded by the reverend Augustine Kirwan, a divine possessed of every virtue which adorns the clerical character, whose piety, meekness, and unceasing benevolence would be long remembered. Amongst other praiseworthy acts, he established a subscription fund and founded a school for the instruction and clothing of indigent boys, in which numerous poor children were carefully taught the rudiments of education.

Aran Islands druidic remains and pagan associations

Innismore · street · Dublin

The Aran Islands at the mouth of Galway Bay were anciently wooded and, due to their retired situation and wild appearance, were considered peculiarly well adapted for the celebration of pagan rites. Immense cairns, stone monuments, altars, circles and other Druidic remains were still visible on the islands, showing they were formerly the resort of that order of heathen priests.

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

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 258

As the companion tells it

The Aran Islands lie out at the mouth of Galway Bay, and what you find on them reaches back a long way. Our annalists say these islands are the remnants of a high barrier of land that the Atlantic burst over in an early age of the world. Mr. Kirwan, in his essay on the primitive state of the globe, wrote that the bay of Galway appears to have been originally a granitic mountain, shattered and swallowed during a great convulsion. A vast mass of granite called the Gregory stood on one of the isles of Arran, 100 feet at least above the level of the sea, and was shattered by lightning in 1774. These islands were anciently overshadowed with wood, of which there are still very evident remains. That circumstance, combined with their retired situation and wild appearance, rendered them peculiarly well adapted for the celebration of the pagan rites of the early Irish. The immense cairns, stone monuments or altars, circles, and other Druidic remains yet to be seen there show these islands were formerly the resort of that famous order of heathen priests.

Archbishop of Tuam translated New Testament into Irish

Tuam · town · Galway

William O'Donnell, archbishop of Tuam, had shortly before 1611 translated the New Testament and Book of Common Prayer into Irish. He was present when Sir Oliver St. John deposed Mayor Valentine Blake for refusing the oath of supremacy.

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20. This mayor was also deposed, for the same reason, by Sir Oliver St. John, in the presence of William O'Donnell, archbishop of Tuam, (who had shortly before trans^
t

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 174

Battle of Aughrim and surrender of Galway

Aughrim · parish · Galway · 1691

During the Williamite War, the Battle of Aughrim took place, followed by a siege of the town of Galway. The town eventually surrendered on articles, after which Roman Catholic inhabitants faced harsh treatment.

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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 freedoms 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 clamours 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 king James 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 145

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 7

As the companion tells it

The parish of Aughrim lies along this road. In 1691, this was the ground of a battle in the Williamite War. The years before it, in the town of Galway, had their own turmoil. When 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 there. A new charter was granted. Then troubles began, and the fortifications of the town were repaired. The people resolved to adhere to King James and his government, and the Protestant inhabitants were removed out of the town. Then came the Battle of Aughrim. After it, the town of Galway was besieged. It surrendered on articles. The Roman Catholics were treated harshly. Fortifications were built to secure the conquest of the town and the islands. What stands in the record is the sweep of it. Under Charles the Second, the old natives had returned, only to be excluded from corporate privileges and finally expelled the town. The population diminished, and the houses fell to ruin. Under James the Second, the Catholic inhabitants came back and were made free again. Then the battle, the siege, the surrender, and once more the treatment of the Roman Catholics. The conquest secured with new fortifications.

Burning of St. Brigid's convent near Galway, 1599

Galway · city · Galway · 1599

In 1599, Hugh Ruadh O'Donnell, hereditary prince of Tyrconnell, burned the convent of St. Brigid near Galway. The event is recorded by Cucoigcriche O'Clery, one of the Four Masters, in his life of O'Donnell.

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It is well known that amongst the ancient Irish, all foreigners were indiscriminately termed Galls,^ hence, arose, a supposition, that Galwaytook its name from a foreign colony alledged to have settled there at an early period. Tradition informs us, that previously to the arrival of Henry II, Galway was but an inconsiderable fishing village, under the protection of an Irish dune or fortress, and that it was then called Ballinshruane, or the town of the little streams; because, when the winter floods were high in the river, the water flowed through the present scite of the town, and formed it into small islands; in one of which, (where the church of St. Nicholas was afterwards built,) this primitive hamlet was situate. We are further informed, from the same source, that when the English settlers afterwards came hither, they were called by the native Irish Clan-na-Gall, the Foreign clan, sept-, or colony (an appellation, which however originating, their descendants still retain,) and that the place was from thenceforth named Ballinagall, or Gallibh, the Foreigners' town, or fortification. These traditionary relations, though to many they might appear probable and satisfactory, are not borne out, but seem rather controverted by written authority. In the life of Hugh Ruadh O'Donnell, hereditary prince of Tyrconnell, written by Cucoigcriche O'Clery, one of the four masters, after relating the sacrilegious burning of the convent of St. Brigid, near Galway, in 1599, by that chieftain, the writer adds, "that the city took its name from the river, in which was drowned Gallimh, the daughter of Breasail." ^Tl^jg derivation receives support from the old map of Galway, (of which a full description will be found in another part of this volume;) it is there stated, that a woman, named Galva, was drowned, near a great rock, in the river, (which is delineated on the map,) and that from this circumstance the town originally took its name.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 9

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, there is a story from 1599 that sits beside this place. Hugh Ruadh O'Donnell, hereditary prince of Tyrconnell, burned the convent of St. Brigid near Galway. The event was recorded by Cucoigcriche O'Clery, one of the Four Masters, in his life of O'Donnell. O'Clery called the burning sacrilegious. That is what the record gives us, and no more of the act itself. But O'Clery, after relating the burning, added something else. He said that the city took its name from the river, in which was drowned Gallimh, the daughter of Breasail. This old map of Galway supports that derivation. It states that a woman named Galva was drowned near a great rock in the river, and that from this circumstance the town originally took its name. Before that, there were other traditions. The ancient Irish called all foreigners Galls. Some supposed Galway took its name from a foreign colony said to have settled there early on. Tradition says that before the arrival of Henry the Second, Galway was an inconsiderable fishing village under the protection of an Irish dune or fortress, and was called Ballinshruane, the town of the little streams, because winter floods sent water through the site and formed it into small islands. On one of those islands, where the church of St. Nicholas was afterwards built, the primitive hamlet stood. When English settlers came, the native Irish called them Clan-na-Gall, the Foreign clan, and the place became Ballinagall or Gallibh, the Foreigners' town. These traditionary relations, though they might appear probable to many, are not borne out by written authority.

Cromwell's 1657 assessment of Galway's trade

Galway · city · Galway · 1657

Henry Cromwell and the Irish privy council wrote in April 1657 that Galway's situation, neighbourhood, and commerce with Spain, the Straits, West Indies, and other places made it more considerable than any town or port in the three nations except London.

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t"We may be bold to say, that for the situation thereof, voisenage, and commerce it hath with Spain, the Srayts, West Indies, and other places, noe town or port in tlie three nations (London excepted) was more considerable."- -Original letter from Henry Cromwell and the Irish privy council concerning Calwov, dated 7th April, 1657.--Vide p. LIS.
§J'ayme les Historiens, on fort simples, on exeellons. Los simples, qui n'ont point dequoy y mesler quelque chose du leur, et qui n'y apportent que le soin, et la dilligence de r'amasser tout ce qui vient a leur notice, et d'.enregistrer a la bonne foy toutes choses, sans chois et sans triage; nous laissent le jugement entier, pour la cognoissanee de la verite. — Essais de Montaigne, liv. IT. chap. X.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 2

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this was a place once ranked second only to London for trade. In April 1657, Henry Cromwell and the Irish privy council wrote that for its situation, neighbourhood, and commerce with Spain, the Straits, the West Indies, and other places, no town or port in the three nations, London excepted, was more considerable.

Danes destroy the great island of Aran, 1031

Innismore · street · Dublin · 1031

By the annals of Innisfallen, the great island of Arran was destroyed by the Danes in 1031. The annalistic entry reads 'Arainn na Naoimh do losgadh le Lochlannaibh' — Aran of the Saints burned by the Northmen.

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sula multitudo virorum sanctorum manet, et innumerabiles sancti, omnibus incogniti nisi solo Deo omnipotenti, ibi jacent. — In 546 it was agreed between the kings of Munster and Connaught that the islands of Arran were to acknowledge no superior, or pay chief rent to any but theiir native princes, in whose possession they remained for many ages afterwards. By the annals of Innisfallen it appears that the great island was destroyed in 1031, by the Danes. — Arainn na Naoimh do losgadh le Lochlannaibh. — Cambrensis, who wrote in the century after this period, gravely informs us that " Here human bodies are neither buried, nor do they putrefy, but, lying on the surface and exposed to the open air. they remain uncorrupted : and men may thus behold and recognise their grandfathers and greatgrandfathers. Another thing remarkable i« that, though all Ireland abounds with rats, this island is free from any, for should that reptile be brought thither, it either leapeth into the sea, or, being prevented, instantly dies!"- — This, however, is but one of the numerous fables and falsehoods wiih which that vain topographer amused his Oxford auditory respecting Ireland.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 258

As the companion tells it

Along here is the place linked to Innismore, whose name recalls the great island of Aran off the Galway coast. The annals of Innisfallen record that in 1031 the Danes destroyed that island. The entry in Irish reads, "Arainn na Naoimh do losgadh le Lochlannaibh" — Aran of the Saints burned by the Northmen. Long before that, in 546, the kings of Munster and Connaught had agreed that the islands of Arran would acknowledge no superior and pay no chief rent to any but their native princes, in whose possession they remained for many ages. Cambrensis, writing in the century after the destruction, claimed that human bodies on the island neither decayed nor were buried, so that men could look upon their grandfathers and great-grandfathers. He also said that though all Ireland abounded with rats, Aran had none, and any brought there would leap into the sea or die on the spot. The author calls these but fables and falsehoods with which that vain topographer amused his Oxford audience.

Decay of Galway town after Clanrickarde raids

Galway · city · Galway · 1576

The town of Galway was reported to be in great decay, having lost many of its expert men and young warriors due to raids by the sons of the Earl of Clanrickarde. Fifty householders fled the town.

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householders having sought new habitations, under Mac William Eughter." — His own description of it is as follows : — " First, I find the towne of Galwaye moche decaied, both in nomber of expert sage men of yeares and yonge men of warre, in respect of that I have seene; which great decay hath grown thorough the horible spoyle done upon them by the sonnes of the earle of Clanrickarde, in so moche as it was evidentlye proved before me that fiftie howsholders of that towne doe nowe enhabite under Mac William Croghter,- and it seemeth they have not onlye lost their wealth, but with it their wittes and hearts. Surely it may welle seeme they were in point to have given up all, and almost to have forgotten that they received any corporation of the crowne; but I trust they are now revived, and I hope on the mendinge hande."3 — While his lordship remained in the town, the persecuted Irish, taking advantage of his presence, flocked into him for protection : seven of the family of the Clandonnels, and after them Mac William Oughter, "who could speak Latin, although he could not speak English, '4 submitted by oath and indenture. Mac William agreed to pay two hundred and fifty marks yearly for his country, besides contributions of men at risings out; and he also consented that the Clandonnels should hold their lands of the queen. Upon the ratification of this treaty he was knighted, and received some small presents from the lord deputy; and he requested that an English sheriff should be sent into his country, which wae accordingly complied with. Owen O'Mayle,0 chief of Borishoole,

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 77

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are travelling through a town that in 1576 was described as much decayed. An official who had seen it before wrote that it had lost many of its expert older men and young men of war, and that the ruin had come through horrible spoil done upon them by the sons of the Earl of Clanrickarde. It was proved before him that fifty householders of the town had gone to live under Mac William Croghter, having lost not only their wealth but, as he put it, their wits and hearts. He said it seemed they were in point of giving up all and almost forgetting they had received any corporation from the crown, but added that he trusted they were now revived and on the mending hand. While he remained in the town, persecuted Irish flocked to him for protection. Seven of the family of the Clandonnels submitted by oath and indenture, and after them Mac William Oughter, who could speak Latin though not English, agreed to pay 250 marks yearly for his country besides contributions of men at risings out. He consented that the Clandonnels should hold their lands of the queen, and upon ratification of this treaty he was knighted and received small presents. He requested an English sheriff be sent into his country, which was complied with.

Destruction and survival of St. Nicholas's Church ornamentation

Galway · city · Galway

The Church of St. Nicholas in Galway was once richly decorated with sculptured ornaments, stained glass, and numerous statues and chapels. Many of these sacred monuments were destroyed by fanatics, and later by ignorant churchwardens, though some few still remain.

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trances and windows, which all display the pointed arch, 32 were richly decorated with sculptured ornaments, containing many allegorical and ecclesiastical subjects, and exhibiting various traces of drapery, intermixed with fruit, trefoils, festoons, etc., in the same appropriate style, ingeniously designed and elegantly executed. Some few of these are still remaining, which escaped the ravages of time and the devastation of the fanatic crew by whom, as already detailed, almost every sacred monument in the church was destroyed; and it is here added with regret that what even these despoilers had spared were ultimately doomed to destruction by the ignorant alterations of modern churchwardens, under the specious name of repairs and improvements. Notwithstanding these interpolations, however, the interior of this spacious structure, taken from the western vestibule, and terminated by the lofty window in the choir (which, with those on the west, had formerly been embellished with beautifully stained glass), presents even still a view altogether worthy of its external appearance, and one capable of inspiring the mind with mingled sensations of awe and veneration. When, with this view, the spectator shall in his imagination combine the fourteen ornamented altars and chapels, already enumerated, with which the church had been once so brilliantly adorned, the monuments and numerous statues of saints and other holy men, amongst whom that of the patron, St. Nicholas, was eminently conspicuous, 33 a tolerably adequate idea may then be formed of the ancient splendour and magnificence of this stately edifice.
To proceed, however, to particulars, it will be necessary in the first place to notice the north or French's aisle. This compartment corresponds in height with the roof of the nave, but a portion of it and the adjoining transept is occupied by the organ-loft or gallery, erected in the last century, nearly parallel with the pulpit, but, as it must be confessed, with very little display of taste, either in the design, position, or execution. 34 Although

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 206

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the road carries you past the Church of St. Nicholas, a building that was once far grander than what survives. Its entrances and windows, all displaying the pointed arch, numbered 32 that were richly decorated with sculptured ornaments. They held allegorical and ecclesiastical subjects, with traces of drapery intermixed with fruit, trefoils, and festoons, ingeniously designed and elegantly executed. Some few of these are still remaining today. They escaped the ravages of time and what the source calls the devastation of the fanatic crew, who destroyed almost every sacred monument in the church. But it is added with regret that what even those despoilers had spared was ultimately doomed to destruction by the ignorant alterations of modern churchwardens, under what the source calls the specious name of repairs and improvements. Notwithstanding this, the interior, taken from the western vestibule and terminated by the lofty window in the choir, presents even still a view worthy of its external appearance, capable of inspiring the mind with mingled sensations of awe and veneration. The choir window and those on the west had formerly been embellished with beautifully stained glass. The church had once been brilliantly adorned with 14 ornamented altars and chapels, monuments, and numerous statues of saints and other holy men. Among these, the statue of the patron, St. Nicholas, was eminently conspicuous. From these particulars a tolerably adequate idea may be formed of the ancient splendour and magnificence of this stately edifice. To the north, French's aisle corresponds in height with the roof of the nave, though a portion of it and the adjoining transept is occupied by an organ-loft or gallery erected in the last century, which the source confesses shows very little display of taste in its design, position, or execution.

Disputed parliamentary election return in Galway

Galway · city · Galway

The sheriffs of Galway proceeded to return the Hon. Frederick Ponsonby, nominee of Mr. Daly, without due notice. Colonel Richard Martin, John French Madden, and Richard Maunsell formally protested the illegality of the proceeding, but their objections were over-ruled and the member declared duly returned.

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

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 158

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this city was the scene of a disputed parliamentary election return. The census of 1812 counted 24,484 people in the town and liberties, but the men charged with the count later accused each other of gross neglect and omission. The more likely figure was around 40,000, and among them a growing number of poor with no trade, no manufactures, and no adequate work. Many inhabitants blamed this misery on neglect by the town's parliamentary representatives. They felt that members who knew the town's situation and cared for its welfare could have prevented these evils and taken measures for its benefit. While these feelings were strong, a vacancy occurred in the representation of the town. The sheriffs, expecting no resistance, proceeded in the usual formality to return the Honourable Frederick Ponsonby, nominated by Daly. But Colonel Richard Martin, John French Madden, and Richard Maunsell warmly opposed them, formally protesting the illegality of the proceeding as held without due notice. Their objections were over-ruled, and the member was declared duly returned. These gentlemen then turned to the townspeople, who had gathered merely out of curiosity. They told the crowd that the repetition of what they had just witnessed had caused all the wretchedness of poverty, the immorality and vice surrounding them on every side. This, they said, was the sole cause of their distress. It was why their prisons were crowded with debtors and malefactors, their quays without shipping, their store-houses empty, their poor without employment.

First Galway infirmary at Wood-quay

Woodquay · street · Galway · 1638

In 1638, Lord Deputy Wentworth issued a warrant for a public infirmary in County Galway, but ensuing troubles prevented its execution. Over fifty years later, a small edifice at Wood-quay near Galway was finally provided for the purpose.

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In the year 1638, the able but despotic lord deputy, Wentworth, directed by warrant under his hand that a public infirmary should be erected in and for the county of Galway. The troubles which soon after took place prevented the execution of this design, and more than fifty years were suffered to elapse before a small edifice at the Wood-quay, near Galway, was provided for the purpose. After some years this useful establishment was removed, for what was then termed "superior accommodation, "35 to a house in Abbeygate-street, within the town, where it continued until the present infirmary was opened in the beginning of the present century. 36
This spacious and elegant building, which stands in a healthy and elevated situation, at a short distance from the high road or principal entrance to the town, commands from the front an extensive prospect of the bay, and from the rear a view of the lake and adjacent country for many miles round, It is three lofty stories in height, with a range of seven windows in each, front and rear. The architectural design of the exterior is plain, and suitable to the object of the institution, but the interior contains every convenience requisite for establishments of this nature. There are several wards well fitted up for the reception of the patients, of whom between 700 and 800 are admitted annually. 37 Numerous externs also daily receive relief and assistance.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 245

As the companion tells it

Along here at Wood-quay, a county infirmary for Galway was meant to be built back in 1638. Lord Deputy Wentworth directed by warrant that a public infirmary be erected for County Galway, but the troubles that soon followed prevented the design from being carried out. More than fifty years passed before a small edifice at the Wood-quay near Galway was provided for the purpose. After some years the establishment was removed to a house in Abbeygate-street within the town, for what was then termed superior accommodation, and it continued there until the present infirmary opened at the beginning of the present century. That later building stands in a healthy, elevated situation near the principal entrance to the town, with a prospect of the bay from the front and a view of the lake and country from the rear. It is three lofty stories with seven windows front and rear. The exterior is plain but the interior has every convenience, with several wards fitted up for the reception of patients. Between 700 and 800 are admitted annually, and numerous externs daily receive relief and assistance.

Franciscan Friary founded by Sir William de Burgh in Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1296

In 1296, Sir William de Burgh, surnamed Liagh or the grey, founded a monastery for Franciscan friars outside the north gate of Galway. The town annals, however, record the foundation date as 1280, and extracts from the friary's necrology were preserved in the Clarendon MS.

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The power of the De Burgos having been firmly established in Connaught, about the close of the thirteenth century, by the favourable issue of their long and sanguinary contests with the native Irish, Galway became (as there had been before occasion to mention) the chief residence of this powerful family, and, consequently, the principal object of its protection and improvement. In 1296, Sir William de Burgh, surnamed Liagh, or the grey, founded this monastery for Franciscan friars, outside the north gate of the town, as particularly detailed in the obituary of the friary, 15 ano| the dedi-
stood, in Middle-street, in this town, populace lighted in the evening an amaz-

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 216

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this was the chief residence of the powerful de Burgh family, who had established their hold over Connaught after long struggles with the native Irish. In 1296, Sir William de Burgh, surnamed Liagh, or the grey, founded a monastery for Franciscan friars outside the north gate of the town. The obituary of the friary recorded the foundation in detail.

Funds allocated for building the Exchange or Tholsel in Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1701–1704

In 1701 the corporation ordered the last two mayors to pay £50 each towards building the Exchange or Tholsel, and capped mayoral salaries until it was built. Mayor John Eyre later contributed £200 of his own salary to the project.

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That the last two mayors do pay £50 each (out of the arrears due to them) towards building the Exchange or the Tholsel? and that the present mayor shall have £200 salary, allowing £50 for the same purpose. In 1704 it was ordered, that no mayor should have more than £150, (in 1707 it was reduced to £100,) until the Tholsel should be built, and that the number of aldermen should not exceed twenty-six.
1702.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 183

As the companion tells it

Coming through Galway, you're passing the city where the corporation set money aside for a building called the Exchange or Tholsel. In 1701 they ordered the last two mayors to pay £50 each towards it, and allowed £50 from the present mayor's £200 salary for the same purpose. In 1704 they capped mayoral pay at £150 until the Tholsel was built, and limited aldermen to 26.

Galway Bay formation from ancient Loch-Lurgan

near Galway Bay · bay · Clare

An old Irish annal describes Loch-Lurgan as a spacious lake between County Clare and West Connaught, south of Galway, later identified as the present Galway Bay. The annalists claimed the Atlantic burst over the banks separating the lake from the ocean to form the bay.

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A curious supposition has been entertained relative to the origina! formation of the bay of Galway, it is related, in one of the old Irish annals, that in the year of the world 1969, there were but three lakes of any conse quence in the whole island, namely, Loch-Foirdream, said to have been at Slievmis, near Tralee, in the County of Kerry, Finloch, the present Loughcarra, in the County of Mayo, and Loch-Lurgan, which is described as a spacious lake between the County of Clare and West Connaught, to the South of Galway, and extending a considerable distance towards the east. This lake is supposed to have been the present bay of Galway, which was once, say the annalists, separated from the ocean by strong banks, until the Atlantic bursting over them and uniting with the water within, formed
10 To open a communication between Killalla and Galway, by means of the Moy, Loughmask, and Lough corrib, was one of the practical projects of those who were employed to survey the navigable rivers of Ireland in the early part of the eighteenth century, and. if carried into effect, would have proved a most important addition to the internal navigation of this country. They also intended to make the Colgan navigable, or extend its navigation from Galway to the Shannon. Lough Corrib might be easily rendered of extremely important advantage to this

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 11

Galway fortifications repaired and Protestants removed

Galway · city · Galway · 1688–1690

As troubles began under James II, the fortifications of Galway were repaired and the town resolved to adhere to King James and his government. Protestant inhabitants were removed from the town.

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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 in a town whose walls were repaired and whose Protestant inhabitants were put out in the years around 1688 to 1690. After Charles the Second came back to the throne, many of the new settlers disappeared and the old natives returned. The king wrote to the lords justices to restore them to their freedom and estates. But disputes grew between the old natives and the new settlers. The lords justices showed prejudice against the old natives and opposed their claims. They were excluded from corporate privileges and finally expelled the town. The corporation lands, the charter, and the market duties were granted to Mrs. Elizabeth Hamilton. The earl of Essex, the lord lieutenant, opposed the grant and described the decayed state of the town. Colonel Theodore Russell purchased the charter and market duties and was elected mayor. The king granted a new charter with many privileges. The population had considerably diminished and the houses were falling to ruin. Many old natives gave security and were permitted to return, but were soon obliged to depart owing to the clamors of some members of the corporation. When 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. A new charter was granted. Then troubles began. The fortifications of the town were repaired. The town resolved to adhere to King James and his government. Protestant inhabitants were removed out of the town. The Battle of Aughrim followed. The town was besieged and surrendered on articles. After that, fortifications were built to secure the conquest of the town and the islands.

Galway identified with Ptolemy's Nagnata

Galway · city · Galway

The text argues that the ancient town of Galway was the famous city called Nagnata by Ptolemy, being the most considerable place on the western coast of Ireland. Its situation at the confluence of a considerable lake and the ocean made it the most probable candidate for that ancient settlement.

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guactie, or the port of the small Islands, alluding to the Isles of Arran, lying at the entrance of the bay, and the other small Islands lying nearer the town- He derives the name from Cuan% a port or harbour, na, a preposition of the genitive case, and uact or guact, a little Island, which, by transition into the Greek manner of pronunciation, would form Naguata, for Nagnata he takes to be an error of transcribers. Harris, the editor of Ware, agrees with Baxter, saying, that the situation of Galway, according to Ptolemy, is pretty near the truth of this notion. If, in corroboration of the foregoing reasonings, recurrence shall be had to the testimonies of Tacitus, and also of our native historians, already mentioned, relative to the commerce of Galway, at the very time that Ptolemy describes Nagnata as the most considerable place on the western coast of Ireland, very little doubt can remain as to their identity. If it should still be necessary to call in the aid of probability or conjecture on the point, the reader might be reminded how indispensable the advantages of natural situation are always held, towards rendering any place eminent or considerable; and, seeing that the bay of Galway possesses, in a high degree, all these advantages, it might be no small reason to conclude, that Nagnata, then the most celebrated place in this part of the kingdom, must have been situated some where on the bay : and, if he should go farther, and inquire for the particular spot, he might be assisted by considering the general practice of mankind, at all times, in building their habitations or cities at or near the banks of rivers; and then, combining the numerous advantages, which, in the particular instance of the position of Galway, attend the confluence of a considerable lake and the ocean, he will find that its situation was the best adapted, and most probable place of any other in that quarter, for that of the city in question. Considering therefore, all the foregoing testimonies and reasonings, and the conclusions drawn from them, our entire concurrence is given to the opinions of the learned and respectable writers above quoted, that the ancient town of Galway, though without any apparent nominal analogy, was the famous city mentioned under the name of Nagnata by Ptolemy.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 40

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a place some scholars identified as the famous city called Nagnata by Ptolemy. Ptolemy described Nagnata as the most considerable place on the western coast of Ireland, and the argument for the identity rests on several grounds. One writer, Baxter, derived the name from a harbour of small islands, alluding to the Isles of Arran at the entrance of the bay, and took Nagnata to be an error of transcribers for something like Naguata. Harris, the editor of Ware, agreed that the situation of Galway according to Ptolemy is pretty near the truth. The native historians and Tacitus both spoke of the commerce of Galway at the very time Ptolemy described Nagnata. Beyond testimony, the argument turns on natural situation. The bay of Galway possesses a high degree of the advantages that make a place eminent. The particular spot, the reasoning goes, should be sought where people generally build their cities, at or near the banks of rivers. The confluence of a considerable lake and the ocean gave Galway the best adapted position of any place in that quarter. So the conclusion is given that the ancient town of Galway, though without any apparent nominal analogy, was the famous city mentioned under the name of Nagnata by Ptolemy.

Galway petition to Pope describes conflict with native Irish

Galway · city · Galway · 1484

The parishioners of Galway petitioned Pope Innocent VIII, representing themselves as 'modest and civil people' and the surrounding native Irish as a savage race who robbed and murdered them. The Pope granted a bull of confirmation for the erection of St. Nicholas into a collegiate church.

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Galway anciently belonged to the diocese of Annaghdown, which was united, in 1324, to the arch-diocese of Tuam; and since that union it was governed by vicars, nominated by that See. In the year 1484, the inhabitants prevailed on Donat O' Murray, then archbishop of Tuam, to release the town from his jurisdiction, and to erect the church of St. Nicholas into a collegiate, to be governed by a warden and vicars, who were to be presented and solely elected by the inhabitants of the town. 19 As it was necessary that this act should receive the sanction and confirmation of the Pope, a petition from the parishioners of the town was transmitted to Rome, in which they stated themselves to be "modest and civil people," and represented the inhabitants of the surrounding country as a savage race, brought up in woods and mountains, unpolished and illiterate, by whom they were often disturbed in exercising the divine duties of their religion, according to the English rite and custom; that they were often robbed and murdered by them, and were in continual danger, and likely to suffer many other losses and inconveniences if not speedily succoured, and they therefore prayed that his holiness would be pleased to confirm the institution of the archbishop. This petition was graciously received by the Pope, innocent VIII., who granted a bull of confirmation, according to the prayer of the petitioners.
About the same time, the inhabitants also solicited Richard III. for a new charter, praying that they might be at liberty to elect thenceforth, for ever, a mayor and bailiffs; that no person whomsoever, not even excepting the King's lieutenant and chancellor, (who alone were then privileged,) should enter the town without a licence; and particularly that the lord Mac William, of Clanrickard, and his heirs, should be for ever deprived of all rule and authority within the town. A new charter was accordingly granted, dated at Westminster, the 15th of December, 1484, whereby the

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 62

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town that, in 1484, sought to govern its own church. The parishioners petitioned Pope Innocent VIII, calling themselves "modest and civil people" and describing the surrounding native Irish as a savage race, brought up in woods and mountains, unpolished and illiterate, by whom they were often disturbed in exercising the divine duties of their religion according to the English rite. They said they were often robbed and murdered, and were in continual danger. They prayed the Pope would confirm the act of Donat O'Murray, then archbishop of Tuam, who had agreed to release the town from his jurisdiction and erect the church of St. Nicholas into a collegiate, governed by a warden and vicars elected solely by the inhabitants. Innocent VIII received the petition and granted a bull of confirmation. About the same time, the inhabitants also sought a new charter from Richard III, asking to elect a mayor and bailiffs, that no person, not even the King's lieutenant and chancellor, should enter the town without a licence, and that the lord Mac William of Clanrickard and his heirs should be deprived of all rule and authority within the town. A new charter was granted, dated at Westminster, the 15th of December, 1484.

Galway raises troops and prepares for siege, 1688-1689

Galway · city · Galway · 1688–1689

The town of Galway offered to furnish three companies of foot (two hundred men) and a troop of horse in November 1688, and by December it was ordered that six companies be raised. In July 1689 three additional companies were raised, with officers presented to the king for approbation.

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for the purpose of opposing its measures, now, for the first time, awakened the town to a sense of approaching troubles; and aware that, as Catholics, their fate depended on the continuance of the present order of affairs, they renewed their protestaions of attachment to the state, and their determination to support it at the expense of their properties and their lives. The most unlimited confidence was placed in their fidelity. The troops stationed in the town having been ordered on to their duty, by lord Tyrconnell, he confided the care of the garrison to the townsmen, and on the 15th of Octob er it was ordered, in common council, that "all the inhabitants, under a certain penalty, should watch, each in turn, during the absence of the standing army." In answer to a communication from Mr. justice Daly to the mayor, he was informed, on the 21st of November, that the town would be able to furnish three companies of foot, consisting of two hundred men, and a troop of horse; and, on the 6th December following, it was ordered, at a public assembly, that six companies should be raised. The walls were soon after cleared, the gur«s mounted, and the gates and fortifications thoroughly repaired, by the directions of the lord deputy, but at the expense of the town. The earl of Clyanricarde was soon after empowered, by order of the common council, to prostrate all the cabins adjoining the walls, and to demolish the several forts in the east liberties. The ditches were scoured by the assistance of the soldiery; the pillars at the exchange on the quay, and the wall at the point of Rintinane, were pulled down, and the draw-bridge at the west was made up. The public markets were then ordered to be held in the high street before the mayor's house; the town's-people got public notice to be timely provided with all the necessary provisions, in case of a siege; and, before the end of the year, the town was put into a tolerable state of defence by the inhabitants, who were fully resolved to hold out against any attempt which might be made by the enemies of government. 10

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 126

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are moving through a town that braced itself for siege in 1688. Lord Tyrconnell had pulled the standing army out, and on 15 October the common council ordered every inhabitant to take turns keeping watch, each under a certain penalty. On 21 November the town told Justice Daly it could furnish three companies of foot, 200 men in all, and a troop of horse. By 6 December that had grown to an order for six companies to be raised. The walls were cleared, guns mounted, and the gates and fortifications thoroughly repaired at the town's own expense, on the lord deputy's directions. The earl of Clanricarde was empowered to pull down all the cabins adjoining the walls and demolish several forts in the east liberties. Soldiers helped scour the ditches. The pillars at the exchange on the quay and the wall at the point of Rintinane were pulled down, and the draw-bridge at the west was made up. The public markets were moved to the high street before the mayor's house, and the townspeople were given notice to lay in provisions against a siege. By the end of the year the inhabitants had put Galway into what the record calls a tolerable state of defence, resolved to hold out. In July 1689 three more companies were raised, and their officers were presented to the king for approbation.

Galway religious composition: forty Catholics to one Protestant

Galway · city · Galway

A petition from the Protestant inhabitants of Galway stated that there were forty Catholic inhabitants for every one Protestant in the town and liberties. It claimed that Catholic merchants held most of the town's wealth and used it to influence indigent Protestant tradesmen, threatening the Protestant interest.

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It was, however, also resolved and declared, that the corporation had expended the money arising from the tolls, duties and customs, in the repairs and paving those parts of the streets detailed in the report, and in paying salaries to the mayor and other officers of the corporation, which salaries were highly conducive to the preservation of the peace, order and good government of the town, and were necessary to maintain the authority of magistracy : and they finally reported that the laws in force, if properly executed, were sufficient to redress the grievances committed in the markets, and that it was the duty of the magistrates to see them so executed. During the proceedings of the committee, the corporation proposed to relinquish the perquisites complained of, and to accommodate all matters in dispute, by adhering either to the schedule contained in the charters, or to the agreement entered into, in 1684, with the merchants of the town. These proposals, in the then stage of the business, being rejected, a "petition from the common council, freemen and freeholders of the town, on behau of themselves and the other Protestant inhabitants of the town and liberties," was presented to the house; wherein, after setting forth their title by charter to the duties, and their offers of accommodation, and the refusal of them, they stated that there were, in the town and liberties, forty Popish inhabitants for one Protestant : that the few Protestant merchants were discouraged from following trade or business, the Papists in general declining to deal with them; and the wealth of the town, or by much the greater part of it, being in their hands, they thereby acquired considerable influence and power over the indigent Protestant tradesmen : that the corporation rents amounted to 1501. a year, and their whole revenue (which, exclusive of perquisites, did not exceed 7251. annually,) was then, and had been for several years before, scarcely sufficient to pay the salaries of the magistrates and officers, and other necessary expenses; and that, should they be deprived of any part of the tolls, duties and customs granted by the charters, they would not be able to support the honour and dignity of the magistracy, or maintain their independence against the wealth and power of the Popish inhabitants; which would necessarily, as they apprehended, subvert the Protestant interest in the town. — This petition being received, and the committee not having recommended the abolition of the charter duties, which was the principal object of the merchants, the entire terminated in an agreement between them and the corporation. A new schedule of duties and customs was accordingly framed, agreed upon, and presented to the house on the 13th of April, by Mr. French :?a upon which, it was resolved, that it would tend to improve the trade of the town, and be of mutual advantage to the corporation and the inhabitants of the town and county. Thus ended a proceeding, which, though not attended with all the

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 152

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town where, by the account of its own Protestant inhabitants, there were forty Catholics for every one Protestant. A petition from the common council, freemen and freeholders, speaking for themselves and the other Protestant inhabitants of the town and liberties, laid this before the house. They stated that the few Protestant merchants were discouraged from trade, as the Catholics in general declined to deal with them. The wealth of the town, or the greater part of it, being in Catholic hands, gave them considerable influence over the indigent Protestant tradesmen. The corporation rents amounted to 1501 pounds a year, and their whole revenue, exclusive of perquisites, did not exceed 7251 pounds annually, scarcely enough to pay the salaries of magistrates and officers and other necessary expenses. They feared that if deprived of any part of the tolls and duties granted by the charters, they would not be able to maintain their independence against the wealth and power of the Catholic inhabitants, which they apprehended would subvert the Protestant interest in the town. The matter ended in an agreement between the merchants and the corporation. A new schedule of duties and customs was framed and presented to the house on the 13th of April by Mr. French, upon which it was resolved that it would tend to improve the trade of the town and be of mutual advantage to the corporation and the inhabitants.

Galway separated from Tuam archdiocese and St. Nicholas made collegiate

Galway · city · Galway · 1324–1484

Galway anciently belonged to the diocese of Annaghdown, which was united to the arch-diocese of Tuam in 1324. In 1484, the inhabitants prevailed on Archbishop Donat O'Murray to release the town from his jurisdiction and erect the church of St. Nicholas into a collegiate governed by a warden and vicars elected solely by the townspeople.

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Galway anciently belonged to the diocese of Annaghdown, which was united, in 1324, to the arch-diocese of Tuam; and since that union it was governed by vicars, nominated by that See. In the year 1484, the inhabitants prevailed on Donat O' Murray, then archbishop of Tuam, to release the town from his jurisdiction, and to erect the church of St. Nicholas into a collegiate, to be governed by a warden and vicars, who were to be presented and solely elected by the inhabitants of the town. 19 As it was necessary that this act should receive the sanction and confirmation of the Pope, a petition from the parishioners of the town was transmitted to Rome, in which they stated themselves to be "modest and civil people," and represented the inhabitants of the surrounding country as a savage race, brought up in woods and mountains, unpolished and illiterate, by whom they were often disturbed in exercising the divine duties of their religion, according to the English rite and custom; that they were often robbed and murdered by them, and were in continual danger, and likely to suffer many other losses and inconveniences if not speedily succoured, and they therefore prayed that his holiness would be pleased to confirm the institution of the archbishop. This petition was graciously received by the Pope, innocent VIII., who granted a bull of confirmation, according to the prayer of the petitioners.
About the same time, the inhabitants also solicited Richard III. for a new charter, praying that they might be at liberty to elect thenceforth, for ever, a mayor and bailiffs; that no person whomsoever, not even excepting the King's lieutenant and chancellor, (who alone were then privileged,) should enter the town without a licence; and particularly that the lord Mac William, of Clanrickard, and his heirs, should be for ever deprived of all rule and authority within the town. A new charter was accordingly granted, dated at Westminster, the 15th of December, 1484, whereby the

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 62

As the companion tells it

You are passing through Galway, a town whose church history turns on two dates. Anciently it belonged to the diocese of Annaghdown, which was united to the archdiocese of Tuam in 1324, and after that union it was governed by vicars nominated by Tuam. In 1484 the inhabitants prevailed on Archbishop Donat O'Murray to release the town from his jurisdiction and to erect the church of St. Nicholas into a collegiate, governed by a warden and vicars presented and elected solely by the townspeople. The act needed the Pope's confirmation, so the parishioners sent a petition to Rome calling themselves "modest and civil people" and describing the surrounding country folk as a savage race, brought up in woods and mountains, unpolished and illiterate, by whom they were often robbed and murdered and disturbed in exercising their religion according to the English rite. Pope Innocent the Eighth granted a bull of confirmation. About the same time the inhabitants petitioned Richard the Third for a new charter, asking to elect a mayor and bailiffs, that no person enter the town without licence, and that the lord Mac William of Clanrickard and his heirs be deprived of all rule within the town. A new charter was granted at Westminster on the 15th of December 1484.

Ireton dies of plague in Limerick

Limerick · city · Limerick · 1651

Before negotiations for the surrender of Galway could advance, General Ireton died of the plague in Limerick on 29 November 1651 and was succeeded in command by Lieutenant-General Ludlow.

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

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 106

As the companion tells it

You are passing through Limerick. In 1651, this is where General Ireton died of the plague, on the 29th of November. He had been in command of the parliamentary forces. On his death, Lieutenant-General Ludlow succeeded him. The source calls Ireton a gloomy republican, and says that word of his passing brought a monetary gleam of hope to the people of Galway, who decided once more on vigorous resistance. About the beginning of December, Coote proposed the same conditions that had been offered to Limerick, but Galway declined the treaty. Fighting broke out and continued with varying fortune on both sides.

Kirwan appointed prebend of Howth

Howth · townland · Dublin · 1798

In 1798, Walter Blake Kirwan was appointed prebend of Howth and rector of the parish of St. Nicholas Without, in Dublin, following his conversion to Protestantism and rise to fame as a preacher.

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

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 256

Lyons Tower, Galway, reduced to walls by 1747

Galway · city · Galway · 1747

By October 1747 only the walls of Lyons Tower remained standing, though Eyre reported that if repaired it would be of essential service in defending the town. The nine-gun battery and south bastion near it were also in a defenceless state.

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In the year 1 747, Stratford Eyre was appointed governor of the town and port, and vice-admiral of the province. This gentleman, soon after his appointment, made several returns to government of the state and condition of the town, together with the port, harbour, and surrounding fortifications. From these documents, which contain many local particulars long since forgotten, it appears, that the fortifications were then entirely out of repair, and in a ruinous condition. In one return he stated that the gates were all decayed, and particularly that the gate at the parade quay had entirely fallen to the ground. From the royal battery to the quay bastion, a distance of twelve hundred and eighty feet, there were several breachs in the parapets, which rendered it dangerous and unsafe to post sentinels on tnat part of the walls. Between the west gate and Lyons tower, a distance of 1240ft., several holes were broke through, and cross walls were raised as high as the parapets, to inclose and shut in several back yards, the better to conceal prohibitive goods. From the Lyons tower to the royal nine-gun battery, at William's gate, there was a breach quite to the ground, in length one hundred and fifty-five feet; and there was no passage whatever for drawing artillery to the north bastion, or any communication or way for the relief, but by stepping across the embrasures over William's gate. The walls in many places were bulged and might be easily scaled; the platforms were broke up and sunk, and the embrasures filled up and covered with dire and weeds. The walls of the castle and citadel barracks were very much out of repair, and in some places it was not safe for a sentinel to stand on them, and the citadel bastion (which was the only part of the town the then small garrison could hope to maintain or defend, if attacked by an enemy without, or an insurrection within,) was quite unserviceable. In this state the smallest privateer might sail into the harbour and insult the garrison with impunity, and no assistance could be given from the town to any ship, if attacked in the bay. It was then recommended that the most effectual means to protect and secure the harbour would be to re_erect the battery formerly on Mutton-island, for which there were sufficient cannon to spare in the town, and to rebuild the small barrack which stood there for half a company of soldiers. By another return, dated the 23rd October, 1747, it appears that no part of the Lyons tower was then remaining but the walls, though, if repaired, Tt would be of essential service in defending the town; that the nine-gun battery and the south bastion were in a defenceless state; and that it would be absolutely necessary for the defence of the town that they should be repaired, as they were the only works pointing to Fort-hill (where the fort had been formerly erected, of which nothing then remained but the ruins of a guard-house,) against which, if possessed by an enemy with artillery, the town would not be tenable. From the royal battery to the quay bastion, along the curtain, there were several breaches (wide enough to receive hogsheads,) made by smugglers who inhabited the adjacent houses; and on this curtain

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 143

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, this was a town whose defences had fallen into serious disrepair by 1747. In October of that year the new governor, Stratford Eyre, reported to government that only the walls of Lyons Tower remained standing, though he judged that if repaired it would be of essential service in defending the town. The nine-gun battery and south bastion near it were also in a defenceless state. Eyre's returns described a town wide open to attack. The gates were decayed, the parapets breached in several places, and smugglers had knocked holes through the curtain wall wide enough to pass hogsheads through. The walls were bulged and could be easily scaled, the platforms broken and sunk, the embrasures filled with rubbish. He warned that the smallest privateer could sail into the harbour and insult the garrison with impunity. The only works pointing toward Fort Hill, where nothing remained but the ruins of a guard-house, were the nine-gun battery and the south bastion, and Eyre insisted they must be repaired or the town would not be tenable against an enemy holding that ground with artillery.

Mac-an-Earlas rebellion and incursions devastate Galway, 1572-1575

Galway · city · Galway · 1572–1575

From 1572 to 1575, the sons of the earl of Clanrickard, known as the Mac-an-Earlas, waged continuous rebellion, their incursions miserably harassing Galway. When Sir Henry Sidney revisited the town in 1575, Stanihurst records that he found it much decayed and almost desolated, with many good townsfolk lost.

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In the following year Sir Henry Sidney, the lord deputy, marched to Galway with an army, and established Sir Edward Fitton, knight, in the presidency of Connaught.l For mora than half a century before this appointment, the province was peaceable, and exhibited no other infractions of the laws, than such as were perhaps inseparable from the then imperfect state of society; but this new provincial governor was no sooner fixed in his appointment, than matters began to change. Cruel and sanguinary in his nature, his wanton severities goaded those, who were hitherto peaceably inclined, into acts of open rebellion; and particularly the sons of the earl of Clanrickard, commonly called the M ac- an- E arias, and their numerous adherents, who were driven into those unhappy courses, which, after entailing so much mis»ry on the country, terminated in their own destruction. These troubles broke out with violence in 1572, and continued without intermission until 1575; when Sir Henry Sidney again visited the town, which was. in the interim, miserably harassed by the incursions of the incensed Irish under the Mac-an-Earlas. " When he arrived," says Stanihurst, " he found the town much decayed, and almost desolated; sundry of the good
40 By letters patent, dated 13th Sep- Rot. Pat.— 1569, November 6, John Croftemher 1558, a grant was made to Thomas ton, customer and collector — Fiant. — and Martin and his heirs, "of one place of a 1570, June 12, Edward Adame, comptroller water-mill, or a parcel of land sufficient of the customs and subsidies of the port to bund one on, at the farther end of the of Galway — Id. — On 20th March, 1575, bridge from Galway and backwards from the office of searcher, gauger and curciit on the side nearest to the sea, at four tator, in and by the river and port of pence a year; provided that, within two Galway, and within all the creeks and years, he build a gate at the west end of lesser ports annexed thereto, was granted

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 76

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Galway now. In the early 1570s, this town lived through three years of ruin brought on by rebellion. Sir Henry Sidney, the lord deputy, had marched to Galway with an army and installed Sir Edward Fitton as president of Connaught. For more than half a century before that appointment, the province had been peaceable, with no more infractions of the laws than were perhaps inseparable from the imperfect state of society at the time. But Fitton was cruel and sanguinary by nature. His wanton severities goaded people who had been peaceably inclined into open rebellion. Among them were the sons of the earl of Clanrickard, commonly called the Mac-an-Earlas, and their numerous adherents. They were driven into courses that entailed misery on the country and ended in their own destruction. The troubles broke out with violence in 1572 and continued without intermission until 1575. In those years, Galway was miserably harassed by the incursions of the incensed Irish under the Mac-an-Earlas. When Sir Henry Sidney visited the town again in 1575, Stanihurst records what he found. He says Sidney found the town much decayed and almost desolated, with sundry of the good townsfolk lost. Three years of incursion had done their work on the place whose streets you are passing now.

Mountjoy founds fort on St. Augustine's hill (1600)

Galway · city · Galway · 1600

In 1600, Lord Deputy Mountjoy perceived the advantageous position of the hill where the monastery of St. Augustine stood and laid the foundation of a fort within two hundred yards of the walls, commanding the town and harbour against possible Spanish invasion.

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inters upon a period wherein he shall find the town of Galway to have acted a very conspicuous part in the eventful history of the times. Whilst the nation was, agitated by the formidable rebellion of Tyrone, the town remained firm in its allegiance to the queen; but now that alarming rumours of the Spanish invasion were daily afloat, government seems to have apprehended that here the first descent would be made, as the most convenient point of communication with the insurgents of the north and west. Accordingly, in the year 1600, the lord deputy, Mountjoy, caused the town to be put into a state of security, and furnished with men and arms; and, perceiving the advantageous position afforded by the hill on which the monastery of St. Augustine stood, he laid the foundation of a fort on that eminence, within two hundred yards of the walls, which completely commanded the town and harbour, and afterwards became one of the most considerable fortifications in the kingdom.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 84

As the companion tells it

Galway enters here, and in 1600 it stood firm for the queen while Tyrone's rebellion shook the nation. Alarming rumours of a Spanish invasion were abroad, and the government feared the first descent would be made at Galway, as the most convenient point of communication with the insurgents of the north and west. The Lord Deputy, Mountjoy, acted. He had the town put into a state of security, furnished with men and arms. He saw the advantage of the hill where the monastery of St. Augustine stood, and on that eminence, within two hundred yards of the walls, he laid the foundation of a fort. It completely commanded the town and harbour, and afterwards became one of the most considerable fortifications in the kingdom.

Old castle near Oranmore where underground river reappears

Oranmore · town · Galway · 1691–1693

Story noted that the river running through the bog north of Galway sinks underground at the foot of a large hill and reappears at an old castle near Oranmore, where it flows into the utmost creek of the bay.

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by the town : this river and bog extend about a mile and a half towards the north-east, and then end together, the river sinking under ground at the foot of a large hill, but appears again at an old castle nigh Oranmore, where it runs into the .utmost creek of the bay. The ridge of land between the bop- and the bay towards the east is but very narrow.
and may with no great difficulty be fortified, without which the town is not to lie defended, since an army may anproach, under covert of the ridge, within less than a hundred yards of the wall, where there is a raising ground that overlooks a great part of the town." London. 1691-3.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Oranmore, there is an old castle here where something curious happens with the water. A river runs through the bog north of Galway, then sinks underground at the foot of a large hill. It travels beneath the earth and emerges again at this old castle by Oranmore, where it flows into the utmost creek of the bay. The account dates from 1691 to 1693. The same source notes that the ridge of land between the bog and the bay toward the east is very narrow, and an army could approach under cover of that ridge to within less than a hundred yards of the town wall.

Papal bull for St. Nicholas collegiate read in Galway town-house

Galway · city · Galway · 1485

The papal bull confirming the erection of St. Nicholas church into a collegiate, governed by a warden and eight vicars following the English rite, was received from Rome and publicly read in the Galway town-house on 3 and 6 November 1485. The right of presentation was granted to the mayor, bailiffs and equals of the town for ever.

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The bull was soon after received from Rome, and a meeting of the inhabitants was immediately convened in the town-house, where it was publicly read, in the hearing of all the people, on the 3d and 6th days of November, 1485. By this instrument, which is dated the 8th of February, 1484, the pope confirmed and approved of the erection of the church of St. Nicholas into a collegiate, to be governed by a warden and eight vicars, who should be moral, well bred and virtuous men, and who were to follow the English rite and custom, in celebrating the mysteries of religion; and he also granted the right of presentation of the warden and vicars to the chief magistrate or mayor, bailiffs and equals {pares) of the town for ever. 21
These municipal and ecclesiastical grants being obtained, gave general satisfaction to the people, and principally laid the foundation of the future greatness and prosperity of the town, which were also much advanced by the public faith and integrity of its merchants, and by the unsullied honor of the inhabitants, whose strict adherence to truth and love of impartial justice became universally proverbial. But as a single fact, in illustration of this statement, may prove more satisfactory, and have a greater effect than any general description; the reader will find it forcibly displayed in an appalling instance of inflexible virtue which occurred about this period in Galway, and which stands paralleled by very few examples in the history of mankind.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 63

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the city was the scene of a significant event in November 1485. A papal bull arrived from Rome confirming that St. Nicholas church had been erected into a collegiate, governed by a warden and eight vicars. The bull was publicly read in the town-house on the 3rd and 6th of November 1485, in the hearing of all the people. It was dated the 8th of February 1484, and the pope confirmed that the warden and vicars should be moral, well bred and virtuous men, following the English rite and custom in celebrating the mysteries of religion. The right of presentation of the warden and vicars was granted to the mayor, bailiffs and equals of the town for ever. These municipal and ecclesiastical grants gave general satisfaction to the people, and principally laid the foundation of the future greatness and prosperity of the town. That prosperity was also much advanced by the public faith and integrity of its merchants, and by the unsullied honour of the inhabitants, whose strict adherence to truth and love of impartial justice became universally proverbial.

Patent for markets and fairs at east gate and Abbey of St. Dominick

Galway · city · Galway · 1613–1730

In 1730 the corporation obtained a patent for additional weekly markets and fairs on the square plot next to the east gate of Galway. An earlier 1613 patent granted fairs at Fair-hill or at the Abbey of St. Dominick near Galway.

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east gate of the town, was obtained by the corporation. — 4° . Ceo. II. 2 p. — (ft may here be added, that the patent for the fair on the 24th August and the two days following, to be held at Fair-hill or at' the Abbey of St. Dominick, near Galway, was obtained on the 19th June, 1613, by Nicholas Darcy, esq. — 11Q Ja. I. 2 p.)- — In the same year, 1730, Andrew Lynch and his_ sons were discharged from gateage, customs and taxes, for seven years, for keeping the streets clean.
titotadv r\T? UlblUKx Ur

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 185

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are near the old east gate, where in 1730 the corporation obtained a patent for weekly markets and fairs on the square plot beside it. Over a century earlier, in 1613, Nicholas Darcy had obtained a patent for a fair on the 24th of August and the two days following, held at Fair-hill or at the Abbey of St. Dominick near the town. That same year of 1730, Andrew Lynch and his sons were freed from gateage, customs, and taxes for seven years in return for keeping the streets clean.

Petition for Kylcolgan castle and manor

Kilcolgan · townland · Galway · 1547

Pierce Martin of Galway and Dame Mary Lynch petitioned the Duke of Somerset in 1547, alleging that articles of marriage had settled the manor and castle of Kylcolgan on Mary for her natural life, but the Earl of Clanrickard had failed to carry out the covenants. The petition sought restitution of her property and marriage goods.

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petition further stated, that articles were executed on their intermarriage, by which the manor and castle of Kylcolgan were settled on her during her natural life, and that the earl had entered into several other covenants, none of which he carried into execution : that at the time of their marriage she "was a woman of great substance," and that she was entitled unto, and claimed the third part of all his real and personal property : that notwithstanding his grace's order to the lord deputy and counsel of Ireland to take cognizance of their complaint, they could obtain no final order from them, save that they ordered that the petitioners "should have a chain of gold, with a crosse hanging therea-u of fourteen ounces, value at 361. 10s. sterling; and also a cuppe, called a nutte, with a cover of silver, gilte, of sixty-eight ounces, valued at 171. sterling, and another standing cuppe of silver, with a cover, double gilte, of forty-three ounces, valued at 101. 16s. 4d. sterling, in part of 100 marks, received with her in marriage ; and of 50 marks bequeathed unto her. and of 251. 13s. belonging to the children begotten by her first husbaond, which she delivered the said erle' ; wherefore they moste humbly beseechte your most noble grace, for the love of God. to regarde and ponder the said cause, that it may be called to examination before your grace."
An order was accordingly sent from England to Sir Thomas Luttrell, chief justice of the common pleas; Walter 'Cardiff, second justice ; and Patrick Barnewall, serjeant at law, dated the

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stood the castle and manor of Kylcolgan, the centre of a bitter dispute in 1547. Pierce Martin of Galway and Dame Mary Lynch petitioned the Duke of Somerset that year, claiming that articles drawn up at the time of her marriage had settled the manor and castle on her for her natural life. But the Earl of Clanrickard, her husband, had failed to carry out any of his covenants. The petition described her at the time of marriage as "a woman of great substance," and said she was entitled to the third part of all his real and personal property. Despite the Duke's order to the lord deputy and council of Ireland to hear their complaint, the petitioners could get no final resolution. All they received was an order for the return of certain goods: a gold chain with a cross hanging from it, of fourteen ounces, valued at 36 pounds and 10 shillings; a silver cup called a nutte with a gilt cover, of sixty-eight ounces, valued at 17 pounds; and another standing gilt cup of forty-three ounces, valued at 10 pounds, 16 shillings and 4 pence. These were meant as part payment of 100 marks received with her in marriage, 50 marks bequeathed to her, and 25 pounds and 13 shillings belonging to the children of her first husband, which she had delivered to the earl. They begged the Duke, for the love of God, to have the cause examined. An order was then sent from England to Sir Thomas Luttrell, chief justice of the common pleas, Walter Cardiff, second justice, and Patrick Barnewall, serjeant at law.

Petition to open old passage in Galway citadel

Galway · city · Galway · 1686

Lord Clanricarde arrived as governor of Galway and was received with joy. The corporation petitioned him to open an old passage through the upper citadel, which had been walled up after Cromwell's forces took the town to secure it against the natives.

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to which, it was universally known, they had suffered every species of degradation and persecution during the last thirty years ) a circumstance which, in itself, was sufficient to recommend them to his attention. Independently of this, his ministers judged that, in case of any serious opposition and resistance to the arbitrary measures and religious projects of the monarch, it would be prudent to have a place, so considerable for strength and situation as Galway, (that so recently before had sustained so memorable a seige,) properly munited, and entirely devoted to their interest; and, with this point in view, the strengthening of the town became an object of particular consideration. A draught of the fortification having, by his majesty's order, been laid before him, he caused several additional works to be planned out, which, if carried into effect, would have rendered the town impregnable; but matters of a more momentous nature prevented their being put into execution. Lord Clanricarde, having arrived to take possession of his government was received with the most lively demonstration of joy : every old recollection- which endeared the memory of his great and distinguished predecessor, bcame revived in the minds of the people, and the days of their greatness though for ever past, seemed in fancy to be once more returned. Soon after his arrival, the mayor and corporation petitioned him to open an old passage through the upper citadel into the town, offering, for the accommodation, to raise the surrounding walls, make up the gates, and repair the draw-bridges, at their own expense. His lordship declined doing this on his own authority, but submitted the matter to the lord lieutenant, accompanied by his opinion, and that of several officers then in the town, that it would add considerably to the strength of the place. He further informed him, that the gate required to be opened was the ancient and usual way from the country, but that, after the town had been taken by Cromwell's forces, it was walled up- and a bye passage made outside the citadel- to render it more secure against the natives. The lord lieutenant, equally unwilling to give his sanction without having that ot higher authority, accordingly transmitted the entire to England^5 for directions, before he signified his assent. This extraordinary caution, in an affair of so trifling a nature, shews what importance was then attached to every circumstance connected with the security of the town.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 124

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town whose walls held a story from 1686. Lord Clanricarde arrived that year to take possession of his government and was received with the liveliest demonstrations of joy. The people remembered his great and distinguished predecessor, and for a moment the days of their greatness seemed in fancy to be once more returned. Soon after his arrival, the mayor and corporation petitioned him to open an old passage through the upper citadel into the town. They offered to raise the surrounding walls, make up the gates, and repair the drawbridges at their own expense. Clanricarde declined to act on his own authority. He submitted the matter to the lord lieutenant, with his opinion and that of several officers then in the town that it would add considerably to the strength of the place. He explained that the gate in question was the ancient and usual way from the country. After the town had been taken by Cromwell's forces, it had been walled up and a bye passage made outside the citadel, to render it more secure against the natives. The lord lieutenant was equally unwilling to give his sanction without higher authority, and transmitted the entire matter to England for directions before signifying his assent. This extraordinary caution in so trifling an affair shows what importance was then attached to every circumstance connected with the security of the town.

Queen Elizabeth grants Arkin manor to O'Flahertie

Innismore · street · Dublin · 1587

In 1587, Queen Elizabeth I granted Morough ne dubh Mc. Teige O'Flahertie various manors and castles, including the manor of Arkin in the great island of Arin, following his surrender of his estate and Irish customs.

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Donald Ni-Crone O'Flahertie, the present captain, was not sufficient or fit to exercise that office, in any rule, nor able to govern that country, and moreover was disobedient to the queen,) to hold during his good behaviour, as the queen's faithful subject; and to defend and govern the said country, and the good subjects there, of ; to repair to the chief governors, and the council, whenever summoned so to do ; to pay to the lord deputy, for his appointment and his admission to the said office, forty fat cows, and deliver them at Galway, as the lord deputy should direct ; reserving to the crown all such rents, rights, services, burdens and demands, as were anciently due and payable out of the said country. — Rot. Pat. 11 Eliz. — He was afterwards knighted, and on 12th Jan. 1587. upon his surrender of his estate, and name of O'Flahertie, and all Irish customs thereto belonging, queen Eliz. granted him all manors, castles, lordships, lands, &c. the moiety of all felons and fugitive goods, fines and amerciaments, courts and other hereditaments, in Aghnenewer, 4 quarters, the castle of Fowagh, the castle of O'Herie, 4 quarters, Insye-Mc. Ooyne, .2 quarters,, the castle of Moycollen, (the 8th part excepted,) 3 quarters, Cloynenuffe, 3 quarters, Balleneforbagh, 1 quajsier, Kellroe, 1 quarter, Bath cow na, 1 quarter, Belleycowrke, 1 quarter, and Corcollen, 1 quarter, in the barony of Moeollen,; the castle of Ballennonagh, containing 18 quarters, in the barony of Rosse, county Mayo ; the castle of Ballendown, 4 quarters, Ballenehinisie, 1 quarter, Ballemoyllen, 3 cartrons, Ballesellherne, 4 quarters, Moydollan, 2 quarters, Moybileyj, 2 quarters, Moyared, 2 quarters, Moagg and Ardaghe, 1 quarter, Emelye, \ quarter Kermorney, 1 quarter, and Coneveyaghe, 1 quarter, in the barony of Ballenehinsie : all lying in the country of O'Flahertie, called Iher-Connaght, known by the names of Tuomore, Tuobegg, Connemarra and Le Joyes country, to hold to him and his heirs for ever, by the twentieth part of a knight's fee, as of the manor of Arkin, in the great Island of Arin paying all compositions. — Patent inrolled.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 42

As the companion tells it

Along this street in Innismore, a patent was enrolled that reshaped the west of Ireland. In 1587, Queen Elizabeth granted Morough ne dubh McTeige O'Flahertie the captaincy of his country, because Donald Ni-Crone O'Flahertie, the present captain, was judged not sufficient or fit to exercise that office, not able to govern that country, and disobedient to the queen. Morough was to hold it during his good behaviour, as the queen's faithful subject, to defend and govern the country and its good subjects, to repair to the chief governors and the council whenever summoned, and to pay the lord deputy forty fat cows for his appointment, delivered at Galway as the lord deputy should direct. The crown reserved all ancient rents, rights, services, burdens and demands due out of the country. He was afterwards knighted. On the 12th of January 1587, upon his surrender of his estate, the name of O'Flahertie, and all Irish customs thereto belonging, Queen Elizabeth granted him all manors, castles, lordships and lands across the baronies of Moeollen, Rosse in Mayo, and Ballenehinsie. These lay in the country of O'Flahertie, called Iher-Connaght, known by the names of Tuomore, Tuobegg, Connemarra and Le Joyes country. He was to hold them to him and his heirs for ever, by the twentieth part of a knight's fee, as of the manor of Arkin, in the great island of Arin, paying all compositions. The patent was enrolled here in Dublin.

Recorder elected after predecessor refused oath of supremacy

Galway · city · Galway · 1610

A recorder of Galway was elected under the charter of James I because his predecessor had refused to take the oath of supremacy. The new recorder's fee was augmented on condition he not name a deputy without corporate consent.

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11 This recorder was elected under the charter of James X and his fee was augumented, provided he should not name a deputy without the consent of the mayor, aldermen and freemen. His election took place in consequence of his predecessor having refused to take the oaih of supremacy ; but he does not appear to have continued long in office, for the preceding re-
corder immediately after succeeded, and continued until 1625.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 189

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a city where a recorder was elected under the charter of James I in 1610, after his predecessor refused to take the oath of supremacy. The new recorder's fee was augmented on condition he not name a deputy without corporate consent. He continued until 1625.

Richard Kirwan dies at Cavendish Row, Dublin

Cavendish Row · street · Dublin · 1812

Richard Kirwan, the distinguished Galway-born scientist and president of the Royal Irish Academy, died at his house in Cavendish Row, Dublin, on 1 June 1812, in the 78th year of his age. His scientific contributions had brought honour to his native country despite his reputation being greater abroad than at home.

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Mr. Kirwan, for many years before his death, was president of the Royal lush Academy, and also president of the Dublin Library Society; fellow of the Royal Societies of London and Edinburgh ; member f the academies of Stockholm, Upsal, Berlin, Manchester, Philadelphia, of the Mineralogical Society at Jena, etc., doctor of laws, and inspectorgeneral of his majesty's mines in Ireland. His manners were rather singular: Le never eat in company, owing, as was supposed, to some disorder in hits throat. He entertained many curious suppositions; amongst others, he conceived that mankind is indebted for a large portion of knowledge, particularly astronomy, to the antediluvians; and that Greek was the first language spoken by man. His religious opinions were unsettled to the last, although it has been asserted that he died "Ferme Catholique," notwithstanding his having lived "Preux Chevalier." This distinguished character departed this life in his house, Cavendish-row, Dublin, on 1st June, 1812, in the 78th year of his age.
Notices of several other natives of Galway, eminent for their learning and abilities, will be found interspersed throughout the notes contained in the ecclesiastical part of this work, to which, for the present, the author begs leave to refer the reader.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 257

As the companion tells it

Along this street, at his house on Cavendish Row, the scientist Richard Kirwan died on 1 June 1812, in the 78th year of his age. He was a Galway-born man who served for many years as president of the Royal Irish Academy and of the Dublin Library Society, and was a fellow of the Royal Societies of London and Edinburgh. He held memberships in academies across Stockholm, Upsal, Berlin, Manchester, Philadelphia, and the Mineralogical Society at Jena, and served as doctor of laws and inspector general of his majesty's mines in Ireland. His manners were rather singular. He never ate in company, owing, as was supposed, to some disorder in his throat. He entertained curious notions, believing that mankind owed much of its knowledge, particularly astronomy, to the antediluvians, and that Greek was the first language spoken by man. His religious opinions were unsettled to the last, though it has been asserted that he died “Ferme Catholique,” notwithstanding his having lived “Preux Chevalier.”

Siege batteries erected at Rintinane and Rinmore, Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1643

In early May 1643, the Confederate besiegers erected two bulwarks and batteries: one at Rintinane on the point of St. Mary's Church to the west, and another at Rinmore on the opposite point. A chain was drawn across the harbour to block access by sea.

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by the town, who sent some companies to lie between them and their boats, and most of them were cut off. In the beginning of May the siege was pushed on with vigor; the town undertaking to defray the expense, and supply the forces which were drawn out of the country and the county of Mayo for the purpose. Two bulwarks and batteries were erected; one on the point of St. Mary's church in the west, called Rintinane; and the other on the opposite point of Rinmore; and a chain was drawn across the harbour, to hinder access by sea. Lord Clanricarde was unable to afford any relief.
Rear-admiral Brooke, in the ship Providence, arrived in the bay in the beginning of June, with provisions and arms for the fort; but the batteries on the points of Rinmore and Rintinane hindered him from approaching. He endeavoured in the night to throw in supplies, but his long boats, being met by those of the town, were forces to retire. Captain Willoughby, being thus disappointed of succour, desired permission from colonel Burlce to deliver the fort to lord Clanricarde; but this, in the moment of success, he refused to agree to, on any other terms than that his lordship should take the oath of union or association, and not dispose of the place without the consent of the several persons under-named. 6 These terms the earl, with that consistency and loyalty which always marked his proceedings and character, totally rejected. Willoughby was then forced to treat for a surrender to the confederates. Articles having been accordingly agreed upon and signed,? he surrendered that important fortress on the 20th of

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 98

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are moving past the ground where, in early May 1643, Confederate besiegers pushed their siege with vigor. They erected two bulwarks and batteries: one on the point of St. Mary's Church in the west, called Rintinane, and the other on the opposite point of Rinmore. A chain was drawn across the harbour to hinder access by sea. Lord Clanricarde was unable to afford any relief. In the beginning of June, Rear-admiral Brooke arrived in the bay in the ship Providence with provisions and arms for the fort, but the batteries on the points of Rinmore and Rintinane hindered him from approaching. He tried at night to throw in supplies, but his long boats, met by those of the town, were forced to retire. Captain Willoughby, disappointed of succour, asked Colonel Burke for permission to deliver the fort to Lord Clanricarde. Burke refused unless the earl would take the oath of union or association and not dispose of the place without consent of named persons. The earl totally rejected these terms. Willoughby was then forced to treat for surrender to the Confederates, and surrendered the fortress on the 20th.

Siege of Galway and subsequent plague

Galway · city · Galway · 1641–1660

The town of Galway was besieged by parliamentary forces under Sir Charles Coote, leading to its strenuous defence and final surrender. Following the surrender, a dreadful plague raged in the town and cruel proceedings were taken against the inhabitants.

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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

As you come through Galway, you're passing through a town that lived through years of siege and plague between 1641 and 1660. On the 23rd of October 1641, the Irish rebellion began, and Galway was a place of opulence. Sir Francis Willoughby, governor of St. Augustine's fort near the town, reported on the event. The earl of Clanricarde took care to secure the peace of the country, and the town resolved to stay loyal. But disputes arose with the fort. There was a massacre at Shruel. The town revolted and besieged the fort. The fort was relieved, and the town submitted to the earl of Clanricarde. Then the governor of the fort turned violent and bombarded the town. Lord Forbes arrived with a fleet in the bay and besieged the town himself, with barbarous conduct. 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. Fortifications were built. Tumults broke out in the town, caused by the pope's nuncio over the question of a cessation. The town was compelled to proclaim it, and the nuncio departed from Galway. The town advanced money to the state, and Charles II gave grateful acknowledgments. A dreadful plague struck the town. The Marquis of Ormond took shipping in Galway and left the kingdom. There were negotiations with the duke of Lorrain, and his ambassador arrived in Galway. Then the parliamentary forces under Sir Charles Coote besieged the town. There was strenuous defence, but the town finally surrendered. The plague raged, and cruel proceedings were taken against the inhabitants.

Speed's 1610 description of Galway as third city of Ireland

Galway · city · Galway · 1610

The English antiquary Speed visited Galway in 1610 and described it as the third city of Ireland, built like a tower, dignified with a Bishop's See, frequented by merchants, and gainful through traffic and exchange of rich commodities by sea and land. He also produced a map of the town.

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In the year 1610, Speed, the celebrated English antiquary, visited Galway; and his description of the place, sufficiently indicates its then importance. " The principal city," says this accurate writer, of this province, and that, which may worthily be accounted the third in Ireland, is Galway, in Irish Gallive, built in manner much like to a tower; it is dignified with a Bishop's See, 24 and is much frequented with merchants; by reason whereof, and of the benefit of the road and haven, it is gainful to the inhabitants, through traffick and exchange of rich commodities, both by sea and land. "25 About the same time, Heylin, the historian, describes Galway as the third city of the kingdom for extent and beauty; and relates an anecdote, worthy of his own words, " Galloway, a noted Emporie, and lately of so great fame with foreign merchants, that an outlandish merchant, meeting with an Irishman, demanded in what part of Galloway Ireland stood; as if Galloway had been the name of the Island, and Ireland only the name of some town." But the most particular and interesting account, at this period, is that contained in the description of Connaught, by Sir Oliver St. John, in 1614, before alluded to: he states, "the Province of Connaught hath only two corporations, the antient monuments, of the English conquerors, and inhabited only by English families and surnames; the one is Galway, a walled towne and port of the sea, latelie made a Countie, and governed by a Maior and two Sheriffs. The towne is small, but all is faire and statelie buildings, the fronts of the houses (towards the streets) are all of hewed stone, uppe to the top, garnished with faire battlement, in an uniform course, as if the
22 Lambet MS

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 25

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Galway. In 1610 the English antiquary Speed visited this city and ranked it third in Ireland. He called it the principal city of the province, built much like a tower, dignified with a Bishop's See, and much frequented with merchants. Through the benefit of the road and haven, he wrote, it was gainful to the inhabitants through traffic and exchange of rich commodities, both by sea and land. The historian Heylin described it around the same time as the third city of the kingdom for extent and beauty, and told of a foreign merchant who, meeting an Irishman, asked in what part of Galway Ireland stood, as if Galway had been the name of the island and Ireland only the name of some town. Sir Oliver St. John, writing in 1614, said the province of Connaught had only two corporations, both ancient monuments of the English conquerors and inhabited only by English families. Galway was a walled town and port of the sea, lately made a county, governed by a mayor and two sheriffs. He noted the town was small, but all was fair and stately buildings, the fronts of the houses towards the streets all of hewed stone up to the top, garnished with fair battlement in a uniform course.

St. Augustine's Fort built on friary site

Galway · city · Galway · 1602–1643

In 1602 St. Augustine's Fort was built at the Augustinian friary site in Galway, and the church was converted into a store for soldiers. The fort was demolished in 1643, and the monastery was returned to the friars who repaired it.

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On the suppression of the monastery, the friars removed to a large house within the town, in which they resided for many years after. The church, however, remained standing, and, on the building of St. Augustine's fort, in 1602, it was converted into a store for the use of the soldiery. When this fort was demolished, in 1643, the monastery was spared and delivered up to the friars, by whom it was repaired; but in 1652 was again surrendered to the corporation, 29 who caused it to be pulled down, lest it should be fortified against the town. Since that time it has been entirely abandoned, and not a vestige of the church now remains. The cemetery is extensive, and though there are several modern gravestones, it does not, for very obvious reasons, contain any monument of antiquity. 30 The friars, like their contemporaries of the other orders, experienced for many years all the rigours of State persecution, 31 About the middle of the last century., they removed to a large commodious house in Middle-street, where they erected a handsome chapel. This building has been recently enlarged and improved, and, from its central situation, is particularly convenient for the inhabitants of the town.

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 221

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, the Augustinian friary once stood on ground where St. Augustine's Fort was built in 1602. The friars had already moved to a large house in the town after the monastery was suppressed, but the old church remained standing, and the fort turned it into a store for the use of the soldiery. When the fort was demolished in 1643, the monastery was spared and handed back to the friars, who repaired it. That restoration was short-lived. In 1652 it was surrendered again to the corporation, who had it pulled down lest it be fortified against the town. Not a vestige of the church now remains, though the cemetery is extensive, with several modern gravestones but no monument of antiquity. The friars endured years of what the record calls "all the rigours of State persecution" before moving to a commodious house in Middle Street around the middle of the last century, where they erected a handsome chapel that has since been enlarged and improved.

St. John's 1614 description of Galway as walled town

Galway · city · Galway · 1614

Sir Oliver St. John described Galway in 1614 as a small walled town and port of the sea, made a county, governed by a mayor and two sheriffs. The houses had hewed stone fronts with fair battlements in uniform course, inhabited only by English families.

Read the passage

In the year 1610, Speed, the celebrated English antiquary, visited Galway; and his description of the place, sufficiently indicates its then importance. " The principal city," says this accurate writer, of this province, and that, which may worthily be accounted the third in Ireland, is Galway, in Irish Gallive, built in manner much like to a tower; it is dignified with a Bishop's See, 24 and is much frequented with merchants; by reason whereof, and of the benefit of the road and haven, it is gainful to the inhabitants, through traffick and exchange of rich commodities, both by sea and land. "25 About the same time, Heylin, the historian, describes Galway as the third city of the kingdom for extent and beauty; and relates an anecdote, worthy of his own words, " Galloway, a noted Emporie, and lately of so great fame with foreign merchants, that an outlandish merchant, meeting with an Irishman, demanded in what part of Galloway Ireland stood; as if Galloway had been the name of the Island, and Ireland only the name of some town." But the most particular and interesting account, at this period, is that contained in the description of Connaught, by Sir Oliver St. John, in 1614, before alluded to: he states, "the Province of Connaught hath only two corporations, the antient monuments, of the English conquerors, and inhabited only by English families and surnames; the one is Galway, a walled towne and port of the sea, latelie made a Countie, and governed by a Maior and two Sheriffs. The towne is small, but all is faire and statelie buildings, the fronts of the houses (towards the streets) are all of hewed stone, uppe to the top, garnished with faire battlement, in an uniform course, as if the
22 Lambet MS

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 25

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Galway, you are in a town that Sir Oliver St. John described in 1614 as a walled town and port of the sea, lately made a county and governed by a mayor and two sheriffs. He said the town was small, but that all was fair and stately buildings, with the fronts of the houses towards the streets all of hewed stone up to the top, garnished with fair battlement in a uniform course, as if the whole had been built at once. He noted that Galway was one of only two corporations in the province of Connaught, which he called ancient monuments of the English conquerors, inhabited only by English families and surnames. Around the same time, the English antiquary Speed visited Galway and called it the principal city of the province and the third in Ireland, built much like a tower, dignified with a bishop's see, and much frequented with merchants. Heylin the historian described it as the third city of the kingdom for extent and beauty, and told of a foreign merchant who once asked an Irishman in what part of Galway Ireland stood, as if Galway had been the name of the island.

Suppression of Templar church of Saint John near St. Nicholas, Galway

Galway · city · Galway · 1324

The church of Saint John of Jerusalem, which belonged to the Knights Templars and stood contiguous to the chapel of Saint Nicholas in Galway, was suppressed in 1324.

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of Blake and Athy; and, in the commotions occasioned by them, several of the later were slain. The church of Saint John of Jerusalem, which belonged to the knights templars, and stood contiguous to the chapel of Saint Nicholas, was suppressed in 1324. In the same year Sir William Leigh de Burgh died, and was interred in the abbey of Saint Francis, founded by himself. He left seven sons; the eldest of whom, Sir William or Ulick, 30 called Ulicus de Anaghkeen, was the first Mac William Eighter. He had a son named Rickard (from whom the name Clan-Rickard originated), whose three sons, Sir William or Ulick, (the progenitor qf the earls of Clanricarde,) Thomas and John, 31 were founders of several branches of this powerful and widely extended family.
William, the third Earl of Ulster, survived his grandfather Richard but seven years. He was basely assassinated by his own attendants, at his castle of Carrickfergus in 1333, leaving an only daughter, Elizabeth, to inherit his vast possessions. 32 This circumstance occasioned a revolution, memor-

Internet Archive historyoftowncouhard, Chapter 51

As the companion tells it

Coming up now through Galway. In 1324 the church of Saint John of Jerusalem, which belonged to the Knights Templars and stood contiguous to the chapel of Saint Nicholas, was suppressed. That same year Sir William Leigh de Burgh died and was interred in the abbey of Saint Francis, which he had founded himself. He left seven sons. The eldest, Sir William or Ulick, called Ulicus de Anaghkeen, was the first Mac William Eighter. He had a son named Rickard, from whom the name Clan-Rickard originated. Rickard's three sons, Sir William or Ulick, the progenitor of the earls of Clanricarde, Thomas and John, were founders of several branches of this powerful and widely extended family. William, the third Earl of Ulster, survived his grandfather Richard but seven years. He was assassinated by his own attendants at his castle of Carrickfergus in 1333, leaving an only daughter, Elizabeth, to inherit his vast possessions. This occasioned a revolution.

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

The stories, best first

First Catholic mayor of Galway in thirty years

Fortification of Barachalla, Galway

Founding of the Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas, Galway

French officers of Irish birth present in Galway

Galway church plate confiscated in French Revolution

Grass in Galway streets until Catholic Relief bill of 1793

Guild charters granted to Galway tradesmen

Henry VIII ordinances for Galway, 1536

Merchants abandoning Galway town for the country

Mutton Island battery recommended, 1747

Nicholas Lynch built Lynch's Aisle at St. Nicholas's Church

Non-tribes parishioners' resolutions at Augustinian chapel

Oath of union sworn by townsmen of Galway

Richard de Burgo fortifies Galway and appoints magistrate

Security crackdown in Galway during 1745 Scottish rebellion

St. Endeus and early Christian foundations on Aran

Townswomen bury executed Spaniards (tradition)

War between Eogan More and Con-Cead-Chathach over Galway revenues

Warden election revives tribal conflict in Galway, 1791

West gate draw-bridge and guard-room, Galway

Claddagh fishermen's monopoly over Galway Bay

Anthony Blake of Dunmacreena elected warden, built chapel

Aran Islands druidic remains and pagan associations

Archbishop of Tuam translated New Testament into Irish

Battle of Aughrim and surrender of Galway

Burning of St. Brigid's convent near Galway, 1599

Cromwell's 1657 assessment of Galway's trade

Danes destroy the great island of Aran, 1031

Decay of Galway town after Clanrickarde raids

Destruction and survival of St. Nicholas's Church ornamentation

Disputed parliamentary election return in Galway

First Galway infirmary at Wood-quay

Franciscan Friary founded by Sir William de Burgh in Galway

Funds allocated for building the Exchange or Tholsel in Galway

Galway Bay formation from ancient Loch-Lurgan

Galway fortifications repaired and Protestants removed

Galway identified with Ptolemy's Nagnata

Galway petition to Pope describes conflict with native Irish

Galway raises troops and prepares for siege, 1688-1689

Galway religious composition: forty Catholics to one Protestant

Galway separated from Tuam archdiocese and St. Nicholas made collegiate

Ireton dies of plague in Limerick

Kirwan appointed prebend of Howth

Lyons Tower, Galway, reduced to walls by 1747

Mac-an-Earlas rebellion and incursions devastate Galway, 1572-1575

Mountjoy founds fort on St. Augustine's hill (1600)

Old castle near Oranmore where underground river reappears

Papal bull for St. Nicholas collegiate read in Galway town-house

Patent for markets and fairs at east gate and Abbey of St. Dominick

Petition for Kylcolgan castle and manor

Petition to open old passage in Galway citadel

Queen Elizabeth grants Arkin manor to O'Flahertie

Recorder elected after predecessor refused oath of supremacy

Richard Kirwan dies at Cavendish Row, Dublin

Siege batteries erected at Rintinane and Rinmore, Galway

Siege of Galway and subsequent plague

Speed's 1610 description of Galway as third city of Ireland

St. Augustine's Fort built on friary site

St. John's 1614 description of Galway as walled town

Suppression of Templar church of Saint John near St. Nicholas, Galway