A history of the town of Belfast : from the earliest times to the close of the eighteenth century ; with maps and illustrations

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Feast, seizure, and massacre at Belfast per the Four Masters

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1574

   According to the Annals of the Four Masters, a peace feast was held by Sir Brian for Essex lasting three days, after which Brian, his brother, and wife were seized and all his people put to the sword, men, women, youths and maidens, in Brian's own presence at Belfast.

   Read the passage

   " Peace, sociality, and friendship were established between Brian, the son of Felim Bacagh O'lSTeill, and the Earl of Essex ; and a feast was afterwards prepared by Brian, to which the Lord Justice and the chiefs of his people were invited, and they passed three nights and days together pleasantly and cheerfully. At the expiration of this time, however, as they were agreeably drinking and making merry, Brian, his brother, and his wife, were seized upon by the Earl, and all his people put unsparingly to the sword, men, women, youths, and maidens, in Brian's own presence. Brian was afterwards sent to Dublin, together with his wife and brother, where they were cut in quarters. Such was the end of their feast. This unexpected massacre— this wicked and treacherous murder of the Lord of the race of Hugh Boy O'Neill, the head and the senior of the race of Eoghan, son of J^iall of the Nine Hostages and of all the Gaels, a few only excepted — was a sufficient cause of hatred [of the English] to the Irish." 2

   This disastrous event occurred within the Castle of Belfast, as Essex in his report plainly expresses. The language, also, of " resistance being offered by his men lodged in the town," would prove that there was some description of huts or shelter near the Castle thought to be worthy of that rather premature appellation. Sir Brian's men occupied the town, and if the Four Masters describe the event truly — that Sir Brian was the inviter on the

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 27

2. Sir Brian O'Neill seized and his men slain within Belfast Castle

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1574

   Essex, suspecting Sir Brian of treachery, ordered him seized within the Castle of Belfast where he lodged; resistance from his men lodged in the town resulted in about 115 being slain, and Sir Brian, his wife, and others were taken prisoner.

   Read the passage

   " My very good Lord; Before my coming unto ' Belfirste' with the army I was credibly informed that Bryan MThelemy was daily practising to agree with ' Tirrekgh Lenagh,' and in very deed was through with him to combine in rebellion — whereupon by the way encamping I sent secretly to Captain Malby (being then before at Carrickfergus) to have a good eye upon him until my coming, who, having care unto it, did accordingly, without any suspicion given, very circumspectly discharge the matter committed unto him, and met me in very good time a mile from Belfirst, accompanied with Sir Brian, Eory Oge and others, who after their dissembling manner welcomed me into the country, which I accepted, as well pleased. So we marched together to the camping place near ' Belfirste,' where also Bryans wife came to salute me, the more to blind me. I was not any time rested imtil by sundry persons of credit I was more informed of his treachery meant, and conferring his former revolt with these advertisements then instant, and remembering the refusal I made of the first admonition then given I found it requisite for avoiding a second folly (by overmuch trust) to make sure work with so fickle a people ; and not without the advice and consent of all the captains in the Camp to whom I imparted all that I knew myself of Bryan's lewd practices I gave order that evening to lay hold on him within the Castle of 'Belfyrst' where he lay, in which Whorley some resistance being offered by his men lodged in the Towne, sundry of them were slain to the number of 115. Sir Brian and his wife, Eory Oge, and one Brian M'Eevelin were taken in hand and one Gruildufi'e of Guilmyrre was also saved, who was in handlock in hand Avith Sir Bryan as a prisoner. This account done, the low water served at Belfyrst where I put over certain horsemen to lay hold upon the cattle in the Ards sides, and other horsemen I put towards the Lough side, who returning the next day brought in the number of 3000 head of cattle besides certain stud mares, whereof I will make your Lordship a present of six choice mares, and because your Lordship may stand surely informed of the truth of Sir Brians doings the rather to stop the ill bruits that may rise of these my doings (for all

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 26

3. Henry Joy M'Cracken's Execution and Burial in High Street Churchyard

   High Street · street · Down · 1798

   Henry Joy M'Cracken, commander at the Battle of Antrim and the best-known of the Belfast rebels, was executed at the Market House after his capture and was buried in the churchyard in High Street, close to the corner of the School House.

   Read the passage

   Of the insurgents executed in Belfast Henry Joy M'Cracken was the best known and the most regretted. But he had been commander at Antrim ; his printed manifesto, proclaiming, in weak imitation of the French model, the 6th June, 1798, as the " First year of Liberty," was extensively circulated ; and when taken prisoner a few days after the battle it was felt that he could not be saved. He was related to some of the most respectable families in Belfast ; and a most lengthened narrative of his career and death is in the History of the United Irishmen, procured, it is said by the author, from the near and affectionate relative who clung to him to the last, and who herself died only a few years ago. She was one of the very last who could speak from personal knowledge and recollection of the history of 1798 in Belfast. M'Cracken ended his life, like the others, at the Market House, was buried in the churchyard in High Street, " close to the corner of the School House where the door is/' one of the last allusions ever made to the Town School-house. Tone and Russell met with deaths not less untimely. The former died by his own hands

   606 HISTORY OF BELFAST.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 317

4. Execution and quartering of Sir Brian O'Neill

   Dublin · city · Dublin · 1574–1575

   Sir Brian O'Neill was sent to Dublin with his wife and brother, where according to the Four Masters they were tried, executed, and cut in quarters; other accounts say he was executed in Carrickfergus in 1575.

   Read the passage

   " Peace, sociality, and friendship were established between Brian, the son of Felim Bacagh O'lSTeill, and the Earl of Essex ; and a feast was afterwards prepared by Brian, to which the Lord Justice and the chiefs of his people were invited, and they passed three nights and days together pleasantly and cheerfully. At the expiration of this time, however, as they were agreeably drinking and making merry, Brian, his brother, and his wife, were seized upon by the Earl, and all his people put unsparingly to the sword, men, women, youths, and maidens, in Brian's own presence. Brian was afterwards sent to Dublin, together with his wife and brother, where they were cut in quarters. Such was the end of their feast. This unexpected massacre— this wicked and treacherous murder of the Lord of the race of Hugh Boy O'Neill, the head and the senior of the race of Eoghan, son of J^iall of the Nine Hostages and of all the Gaels, a few only excepted — was a sufficient cause of hatred [of the English] to the Irish." 2

   This disastrous event occurred within the Castle of Belfast, as Essex in his report plainly expresses. The language, also, of " resistance being offered by his men lodged in the town," would prove that there was some description of huts or shelter near the Castle thought to be worthy of that rather premature appellation. Sir Brian's men occupied the town, and if the Four Masters describe the event truly — that Sir Brian was the inviter on the

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 27

   As the companion tells it

   Dublin ahead. In 1574, Brian, the son of Felim Bacagh O'Neill, made peace with the Earl of Essex. Brian prepared a feast and invited the Lord Justice and the chiefs of his people. They passed three nights and days together, pleasantly and cheerfully. Then, as they were agreeably drinking and making merry, the Earl seized Brian, his brother, and his wife. All of Brian's people were put unsparingly to the sword, men, women, youths, and maidens, in Brian's own presence. Brian was afterwards sent to Dublin, together with his wife and brother, where they were cut in quarters. The Four Masters called it the end of their feast. They described it as an unexpected massacre, a wicked and treacherous murder of the Lord of the race of Hugh Boy O'Neill, the head and the senior of the race of Eoghan, son of Niall of the Nine Hostages and of all the Gaels, a few only excepted. They said it was a sufficient cause of hatred of the English to the Irish. The disaster itself took place within the Castle of Belfast, as Essex in his report plainly expresses. His language about resistance being offered by Brian's men lodged in the town would suggest there was some description of huts or shelter near the Castle, thought worthy of that rather premature appellation. Sir Brian's men occupied the town, and if the Four Masters describe the event truly, Sir Brian was the inviter on the occasion.

5. Paul Jones's Naval Battle in Belfast Lough

   Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1778

   American privateer Paul Jones brought his ship the Ranger into Belfast Lough in April 1778 and engaged the British sloop Drake, which was lying opposite Carrickfergus, capturing her after a short but fierce naval action witnessed by alarmed Belfast inhabitants.

   Read the passage

   Nothing took place after this extraordinary occurrence which can properly be incorporated with the general or public history of the town till the revolt of the American colonies, the prelude to events which almost revolutionised the world. America and France united against England ; the war of privateers was opened, and the deeds of daring which followed have been the themes of great writers and great histories. Home events only can here engage attention. It is therefore to be recorded that Paul Jones, in the interest of America, appeared with an armed ship in the Lough of Belfast, in April, 1778. The Draper was lying in Garmoyle with a valuable cargo of linen cloth, and it was feared that the object of the privateer was to seize the vessel. But Jones, on this occasion at least, was above such petty matters, when there was a king's ship in sight. The Drake sloop of war was lying opposite Carrickfergus. Jones did not hesitate to bring his ship into the Lough ; his intention was to capture the Drake by surprise, but the weather being unfavourable he was unable to make the attempt at that time. Not given to a moment's inaction, he proceeded across the channel to Whitehaven, spiked the guns in that place, and burned several vessels ; then sailed to Kircudbright, where he was born, plundered the house of Lord Selkirk, and early on the morning of the 24th of April appeared again in Belfast Lough to try his fortune with the Drake. He was successful ; the two ships, nearly equal in force, engaged the same day, and after a short action the Eanger, which was the name of the ship commanded by Jones, overpowered and captured her opponent.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

6. The Castle of Belfast Burnt, Three Children Perish

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1708

   The Castle of Belfast was burnt in April 1708, killing three of Lady Donegall's daughters. Tradition attributes the fire to a servant's carelessness with a wood fire left untended in a recently washed room, and states a servant named Catherine Douglas also lost her life.

   Read the passage

   Scarcely had Lady Donegall recovered from the calamity of her husband's death and the possible annoyance consequent on these petitions, when another misfortune yet more disastrous befell her. The Castle of Belfast was burnt in April, 1708, and of her six daughters three who were children perished in the flames. Their ages have not been ascertained, but as their mother was the second wife of Lord Donegall, and he himself killed in his fortieth year, their great youthfulness may be inferred. No contemporary document has been discovered giving a connected narrative of this event. Molyneux, who visited the town shortly after its occurrence, merely alludes to it in connection with the destruction of Lisburn by fire, the effects of which he had just witnessed. Sir Eichard Cox, in one of his letters to Sir Eobert Southwell, mentions among the news of the day, under date of April 27th, 1708, "Lady Donegal's House at Belfast is burn'd, and two or three of her daughters in it." We are informed by tradition that it was occasioned by the carelessness of a servant in placing a large wood fire in a room recently washed, and leaving it therein untended; that some sailors first discovered it ; that a servant called Catherine Douglas lost her life ; that others escaped with difficulty ; and, more interesting, that a " daughter of Parson Berkeley was also burnt to death in the Castle," ^ which last statement is made in connection with a belief that the father of the great George Berkeley, Bishop of Cloyne, was Collector of Belfast in 1G84. It was not his father, but his grandfather, who held that office.^ Tlie fact is mentioned in the introduction to the Life of Berkeley and elsewhere ; but who was the parson, as it is related that the bishop's father resided near Thomastown, in the county of Kil-

   1 Joy's MSS.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 280

7. Dr Haliday's Perilous Mediation During the Siege

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1770

   Dr Haliday, an eminent Belfast physician, was taken prisoner by the mob at Cunningham's house and sworn to secure release of the prisoner from the Barrack or return as a hostage, risking his own safety to prevent further bloodshed.

   Read the passage

   charged with aiding and assisting in houghing (maiming) some cattle belonging to Mr. Gregg was taken prisoner in Belfast this day by Waddell Cunningham, and for security lodged in the Barrack where there were about 40 soldiers, a rescue being apprehended if lie had been sent direct to prison.^ The capture of this person excited no little commotion, and it was immediately resolved that his liberation shoidd be elTected. On the morning of the 23rd an assembly of persons, avowedly Hearts of Steel, met at Templepatrick for this purpose ; proceeded to the Meeting House there, and warned the people out, many of whom obeyed their summons, and assisted to gather others. The entire body when assembled proceeded towards Belfast, armed with guns, pistols, swords, and ruder weapons. The grand rcndezvoiis was held at a house on the Shore road called the Stag's Head, when their number was found to amount to about 1200 men, chiefly from Templepatrick, Doagh, Ballyclare, and Carnmoney. Here they were formed into regular order by an old soldier, called ^Meathes or Matthews, who afterwards gave them the slip on their entering Belfast, In their march upon the town a man of the name of Crawford was in front, on horseback, carrying before him several iron Crowbars rolled up in hay ropes for the purpose of forcing open gates or doors. On their approach to the town Stewart Banks the Sovereign, and about Twenty five other gentlemen, took refuge in the Barrack,^ and closed the Gate. On the arrival of the Steel Men in Belfast they surrounded the Barrack, and sent in a written message demanding the release of David Douglas a prisoner therein. To this Mr. Banks gave a direct refusal, on which they fired many shots at the gate and over the wall, but failing of the desired efi"ect, a party proceeded to the house of Waddell Cunningham,^ broke it open, and were in the act of destroying the furniture, when Dr. Haliday, an eminent physician of Belfast, actuated by compassion, and dreading lest the to^vn might be destroyed, mingled with the crowd assembled at Mr. Cunningham's house. After expostulating with them in vain he was taken prisoner by them and sworn, that he would immediately repair to tlie Barrack and procure the release of the prisoner, or, failing in having it effected that he would return and surrender himself a hostage. The Doctor had just reached the Barrack on this embassy, passing

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 292

8. Murder of William De Burgo near the Fords of Belfast, 1333

   near Shankill · parish · Antrim · 1333

   William De Burgo, Earl of Ulster, was murdered on 6 June 1333 by Robert Fitzrichard Mandeville and others near the Fords while riding towards Carrickfergus, in revenge for his maltreatment of a kinsman. His killer cleft his skull with a sword-stroke while he was saying morning prayers.

   Read the passage

   De Burgo, then in his early youth. His possessions were great in the West of Ireland, but his residence, and that of some of his predecessors, was chiefly in Ulster, most probably at Carrickfer^us. The fate and history of William De Burgo, so far as they are connected with our locality, will best be disclosed by extracts from the Irish annalists. He had been at strife with John De Logan, one of his own original blood and nation; dissensions had sprung up with his near relations also ; and, finally, it is related "that he was murdered on Sunday, the 6th of June, 1333, by Eobert Fitzrichard Mandeville (who gave him the first wound) and others, his servants, near to the Fords in going towards Carrickfergus."^ Another annalist distinctly relates that this event took place between Cragfergus and Newtown, language which points to the same spot — the ford across the Lagan, the site of the future Belfast. More explicitly still is the fatal story told at greater length by Grace, whose narrative, somewhat abridged, is thus translated —

   " William De Burgh, Earl of Ulster, was slain by his own relations between tlie camp at Shankhill and Carrickfergns.'^ . . He had

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 7

9. Public Hanging in Castle Place for the North Street Explosion

   Castle Place · street · Dublin · 1816

   Two men convicted of the gunpowder attack on Mr. Johnston's cotton manufacturing premises, arising from trade or wages disputes, were executed in September of the same year. Castle Place, then central and spacious, was deliberately chosen as the site of the hanging to make the punishment more memorable to large crowds of spectators.

   Read the passage

   ^ This event causrd great excitement, and, though it occurred sixty years ago, is still frequently referred to, as, in its results, one of the most disastrous that has occurred in the town in modern days. Two men who were convicted of the crime — which arose from trade or wages disputes, Mr. Johnston having been a cotton manufacturer — were executed ; and to make their sentence and punishment more memoi-able, Castle Place, in the very centre of the town, now so brilliant with animation, and because it was central, spacious, and convenient for great groups of spectators, was chosen as the spot for the last dread finishing of the law, and there they were accordingly hanged in September of the same year. The crime is first noted in the above simple words of the Town Guard.

   506 HISTORY OF BELFAST.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 249

10. Sack of Belfast Castle: garrison killed by Shane M'Bryan

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1597

    An English ensign named Pullen, drunk and neglectful of his charge at Belfast Castle, was betrayed by his own man who let Shane M'Bryan's forces into the castle. The captured English garrison was hanged and mutilated by the attackers.

    Read the passage

    ' One ensigiie Pullen had the gyfte of Belfast Castell, wlioe in cullor of this charge, robbed the people, and took their gudes round aboute him, to mayntayne his drunkeunesse. And being druncke from his chardge at Knockfergus, and a carswose sent hym by Shane M 'Bryan- — -to loke to his chardges wolde not forsake his wyne poots to serve her ma'^y : but lyinge still at Knockfergus drinkinge, his owne man, named John Aloylon, gave the Castell of Belfaste to the enemye the XVIII daie June. And all the Inglishe men in the ward were hanged, and their throats cutt, and their bowells cutt oute of thor bellyes by Shane M'Bryan. And this castell was, by meanes of Capt^ Thornton, with her mati^^^ shipp and soldiers taken the next daie. And nowe our newe comanders, by meanes of their prayeing the counterie have putt all in rebellion in such sorte that they are cept

    ^ Tliis was the eldest son of Sir Brian M'Phelim O'Neill, and if he were the "modest" man, as described in Sir John Ferret's day, his immediate action in Belfast Castle hardly bore out the title.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

11. The Great Meal Riots of 1756 in Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1756

    Amid scarcity and rebuilding, a mob took control of Belfast, threatening to drown officials, seizing meal cargoes, and rendering magisterial authority powerless. George Macartney's letters describe the town as being in 'a bad situation' with no order or government.

    Read the passage

    " I am desired by the Corporation and principal Inhabitants of the town to send you this Memorial by Express to be delivered to the Lords Justices, and that an answer may be sent by him as soon as possible if no earlier opportunity offers, that is, if the Bearer should be tired with the Journey so as not to be able to return as soon as the Post. All Order and Government here are now at an end. ... I was informed this morning that when I was yesterday in the Meal Cellar which I was forced to quit as mentioned in the INIemorial several of them swore they would drown me. ... I was likewise informed that they (the mob) declare that they would not want money, for as long as they knew of a man that had a penny they would have a halfpenny of it. I believe their want will soon happen, for they have been doing nothing but roving about all this week, and from their behaviour I believe they will not hesitate to put their threats in execution, but then there will be no meal to buy . . . the country stopp'^ from bringing in any, and none will import for the same reason. The Cargo of an accidental Scotch ship here, about 60 Tons, is bought by eight gentlemen and to be sold at 13 shillings the hundred by which there will be loss, and yet notwithstanding it is thought the mobb will possess themselves of it and selling as they are doing Henderson's at 9s. id. . . . Henderson's will be done this day, and then none but the Scotch left. You see things are in a bad situation.

    " George Macartney."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 283

12. Heads of Executed Rebels Displayed on Belfast's Market House Tower

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1798

    Dr. Haliday's letters describe the corners of the ruinous market house tower in Belfast being ornamented with the heads of executed traitors following courts martial in 1798. He grimly notes only three heads were displayed at first, with hope expressed for a fourth.

    Read the passage

    " Toutjours malheur pour quelque chose est hon ; Ovid says or he sais something like it, that Phajton's setting the World in a blaze had its uses, as folks could go to bed without the help of a Candle ; so the Corners of the Tower of our ruinous market house are now ornamenting with the heads of Traitors, & truly some ornament was much needed ; You will think the Times have harden'd my heart — perhaps they have ; it is a general and natural operation of such times to harden hearts ; I see too much of this ; but the fact is, that the only head which is yet stuck up and was a clever one, had enter'd into a partnership with as bad a heart as ever existed — cruel, blood-thirsty, murderous ; so much so, that his own Followers would have kill'd him, had the Court Martial not saved them the trouble. ^ Yet he sustained his trial, sentence, & the execution thereof, with perfect firmness, composure, and quite collected — as did General Monroe at Lisburn ; let us no longer wonder at the calmness with which a Bailli, a Levoisier & the other victims of Marius Robespierre's infernal Tyranny met their fate ; these are things to puzzle a man who strives to solve that inexplicable Eiddle, the human heart. I understand the difiereut Courts Martial act very honourably and dispassionately; had those whose perverse hardness of heart render'd such Courts perhaps necessary acted on such principles and with such temper, we should not now have the painful, the mortifjdng, spectacle of five soldiers adjudging citizens to death instead of the unanimous voice of twelve of his Peers ; whether this old fashioned species of trial shall ever again become the mode in

    ^ Who was the shocking character here described ? The first of the six persons executed in Belfast was William Magill, on the 12th June, 1798 — at least this is the usual record. The only public crime laid to his charge was that he had sworn soldiers from their allegiance.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 316

13. Battle of Benburb, 1646

    Benburb · townland · Tyrone · 1646

    In May 1646 the combined English and Scottish forces fought Owen Roe O'Neill at the Battle of Benburb and were signally defeated by the Irish commander, a major military event of the rebellion period.

    Read the passage

    In the meantime, while negotiations were in progress, extending over a considerable period, the English party in Belfast and elsewhere in the North of Ireland, in spite of Monro's conduct in depriving them of this town, still considered it expedient to act with him against the common enemy, though there could not have been any very cordial union between them. In ]\Iay, 1646, they fought together against Owen Eoe O'Neill the great battle of Benburb, in which they were signally defeated by the Irish commander. O'Neill was dissatisfied with the peace, had united

    became Secretary of State ; and in England, Ireland, and the Continent, acted witli unceasing activity in the King's behalf. He arrested the Earl of Glamorgan in Ireland, took a leading part in the never-ending treaties and negotiations arising during the war, and in prominence every way was scarcely second even to Ormond himself. His career, it may be supposed, stimulated Colonel Chichester, his near relative, to imitate his example.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

14. Hearts of Steel March from Templepatrick to Rescue Prisoner

    Templepatrick · townland · Antrim · 1770

    Around 1200 armed Hearts of Steel members assembled at Templepatrick Meeting House and marched toward Belfast via the Stag's Head on the Shore Road to demand the release of David Douglas from the Barrack.

    Read the passage

    charged with aiding and assisting in houghing (maiming) some cattle belonging to Mr. Gregg was taken prisoner in Belfast this day by Waddell Cunningham, and for security lodged in the Barrack where there were about 40 soldiers, a rescue being apprehended if lie had been sent direct to prison.^ The capture of this person excited no little commotion, and it was immediately resolved that his liberation shoidd be elTected. On the morning of the 23rd an assembly of persons, avowedly Hearts of Steel, met at Templepatrick for this purpose ; proceeded to the Meeting House there, and warned the people out, many of whom obeyed their summons, and assisted to gather others. The entire body when assembled proceeded towards Belfast, armed with guns, pistols, swords, and ruder weapons. The grand rcndezvoiis was held at a house on the Shore road called the Stag's Head, when their number was found to amount to about 1200 men, chiefly from Templepatrick, Doagh, Ballyclare, and Carnmoney. Here they were formed into regular order by an old soldier, called ^Meathes or Matthews, who afterwards gave them the slip on their entering Belfast, In their march upon the town a man of the name of Crawford was in front, on horseback, carrying before him several iron Crowbars rolled up in hay ropes for the purpose of forcing open gates or doors. On their approach to the town Stewart Banks the Sovereign, and about Twenty five other gentlemen, took refuge in the Barrack,^ and closed the Gate. On the arrival of the Steel Men in Belfast they surrounded the Barrack, and sent in a written message demanding the release of David Douglas a prisoner therein. To this Mr. Banks gave a direct refusal, on which they fired many shots at the gate and over the wall, but failing of the desired efi"ect, a party proceeded to the house of Waddell Cunningham,^ broke it open, and were in the act of destroying the furniture, when Dr. Haliday, an eminent physician of Belfast, actuated by compassion, and dreading lest the to^vn might be destroyed, mingled with the crowd assembled at Mr. Cunningham's house. After expostulating with them in vain he was taken prisoner by them and sworn, that he would immediately repair to tlie Barrack and procure the release of the prisoner, or, failing in having it effected that he would return and surrender himself a hostage. The Doctor had just reached the Barrack on this embassy, passing

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 292

15. Mass Mortality at the Great Hospital of Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1689–1690

    The Great Hospital of Belfast, established to receive the numerous sick and invalid soldiers of Schomberg's army after their disastrous encampment near Dundalk, suffered catastrophic mortality. Between 1 November and 1 May, 3,762 men died within its walls.

    Read the passage

    Hospital of Belfast, as it was called, to be at the head of which Dr. Lawrence was despatched from the camp by the general.^ Thomas Pottinger alludes to this hospital in his petition, his words therein leaving it to be inferred that the establishment was originated by his individual exertions. Yet notwithstanding its hoped-for efficacy, so great was the mortality that from the 1st November to 1st May following 3762 men died within it.^ So dreadful a calamity could not happen without affecting the health and condition of the town itself, not yet restored to a settled state by its returning inhabitants ; and accordingly the same authority informs us that " he has sometimes stood upon the street (of Belfast) and seen ten or a dozen corpses of the townspeople go by in little more than half-an-hour."^

    These statements may be beyond the truth, but there is no doubt that this first Enghsh army was greatly weakened by disease only, to the extent, according to some accounts, of nearly one-half of its entire number. In consequence of this it required to be recruited from England and elsewhere with fresh levies from time to time, and the accounts of the arrival of these troops in Belfast make occasionally very lively pictures. This town became the principal place for the troops, Lisburn being chosen for Schomberg's head-quarters. The remains of the broken army and the new arrivals were disposed of during the remainder of the winter and the early months of 1690 in convenient quarters, to recruit their strength* and prepare for the eventful summer, when, it was expected, William would himself lead them in person to the strife of kings.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 84

16. Northern Star Office Wrecked by Militia

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1797

    In 1797 a party of Monaghan Militia marched from the barracks, forced entry to the Northern Star newspaper office, and destroyed the printing forms, letters, and equipment, throwing them into the street. The event marked the violent suppression of the United Irishmen's newspaper in Belfast.

    Read the passage

    A much more important Belfast newspaper was the Northern Star. It began in January, 1792, was originated by United Irishmen, and was the undoubted organ of their opinions and the advocate of their claims. There were twelve proprietors, aU Belfast men, and all Presbyterians. Samuel Neilson was the cliief and largest proprietor, having thirteen shares out of the forty at £50 each, or £2000, which constituted the stock of the company. Mr. ISTeilson was manager and editor; but he had many contributors, and the principles advocated by the Star were those, it may be said, of the ablest political writers in the country. The printer and proprietors were prosecuted in 1792, but acquitted; again in 1794, when Ptabb, the printer of the Star, was found guilty, and the proprietors acquitted. In 1796 the office was taken possession of by Government authority, persons connected with the paper were seized, sent to Dublin, and kept in prison for many months. In 1797 its final suppression took place, the account of which transaction is in these few words in the handwriting on the paper in the Linen Hall Library — " This was the last No. published, as a mob of Militia next day with non. com. officers broke into the office and destroyed forms,

    urgent wants. It is evident, however, lie was competent to have produced the Letters of Henry and Frances, as well as to have edited the Mercury ; and his occupation before he came to Belfast — that of Inspector-General of Munster — might almost be inferred from various allusions in the Letters. He mentions many productions which he had written ; and the numerous references in his Miscellaneous Tracts to Belfast people in 1785, his remarks about the newspapers of the town and his own printing press, are all of much interest.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 213

17. Saintfield case: twelve burnt to death, 1798

    near Saintfield · town · Down · 1798–1799

    A trial at Downpatrick concerned sixteen men charged with confining twelve people in a house and burning them to death. Twelve of the accused were found guilty and three were executed for this atrocity, described as one of the worst outrages of the period.

    Read the passage

    part of Ireland was justly considered a model to the rest of the kingdom, for its religious and moral principles. How that character, at least in some districts, has changed, should call for the serious consideration of every one. We are led to this melancholy remark by a trial just over at Downpatrick of sixteen men, charged with a deed of as atrocious and deep a dye as ever stained the page of a book or newspaper. Twelve men were found guilty, three of whom were executed." This was the famous Saintfield case, in which twelve persons, confined to a house from which escape was rendered impossible, were burnt to death in 1798. To be sure, this frightful outrage did not occur in or very near Belfast. It was a few miles distant. We had to deal here with minor offences. Prisoners were sent from the town to Fort George; and the Court-]\Iartial in the Donegall Arms tried many for having concealed arms, and military supervision still continued. The Yeomanry Cavalry and the Yeomanry Infantry assisted in preserving the peace, and suppressing any material outward display within the town limits. But subjects more akin to the feelings and conditions of Belfast were at hand, rendering them very probably indifferent to the political state of the town, and the military supervision to which they were liable.

    Many persons have heard their fathers speak of the tM^o bad seasons immediately following the Eebellion. They were the two most calamitous years Belfast ever endured. Cold was complained of in April, 1799, and in that month a heavy snowstorm happened, a most unusual occurrence. Incessant rain followed ; August and September had no autumnal weather. The newspaper records state that the floods in the Lagan exceeded anything that had ever before been known. The usual consequences resulted. The corn crops were utterly destroyed. At this period the people had to depend for their food entirely on home-grown produce ; and in October, the inhabitants of Belfast foresaw a dear and scarce winter, and famine at their very doors. The first notice that has been observed is the following, almost applicable in its terms and

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 379

18. Soldiers Fire on Crowd at Belfast Barrack, Killing Five

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1770

    When the Barrack gate was thrown open, the military fired upon the assailants gathered outside, killing five people and wounding nine others, before Dr Haliday's intervention prevented further firing.

    Read the passage

    through an immense multitude consisting of the people from the country intermixed with those of the town, when the gate was thrown open by the military, who fired upon the assailants, killed five pereons and wounded nine others. liy the Doctor's humane interference farther firing was prevented. In the mean time the party who were destroying the house of Mr. Cunningham, growing impatient at the Doctor's delay, and conceiving that he had deceived them, set the house on fire, whereby the safety of the town was in the utmost degree endangered. Under the same deception they threatened to destroy Dr. Haliday's own house, and fired some shots into that of jNIr. Gregg the partner of Mr. Cunningham. To prevent the destruction of the town it was deemed expedient to give up the prisoner to the insurgents, which was accordingly done about one o'clock in the morning, on which they retired, 1 and the fire was extinguished."

    ^ On this subject Mr, Trotter, writing to a friend, uses these words— "You have seen in the public papers an account of the dreadful riots at Belfast. I send you a poem said to be written by a Dr. Marriot on that occasion, inhumanly severe against Lord Donegall and some of his friends. Down, 24th January, 1771."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 292

19. Thurot's Capture of Carrickfergus Castle, 1760

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1760

    The French commander Thurot took the ruinous fort of Carrickfergus in February 1760 with a small force, despite wanting to bypass it and attack the wealthier, undefended Belfast directly. The defense, though weak, gave time for the country to be alarmed and militia to assemble.

    Read the passage

    entered the Bay of Belfast on the 21st of February, 1760

    In a Council of War the judgment of Thurot insisted that the Forces should land, & without regarding the ruinous Fort of Carrickfergus, proceed directly to Belfast, but luckily for us, the opinion of Mons. Flobert, General of the Embarcation, prevailed, who with much military learning, descanted upon the Impropriety, and danger of leaving behind them a Stronrj Place — Luckily I say, for had the six hundred men, to which number the Force was now reduced, immediately assaulted Belfast, they would have found that commercial

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 285

20. Trial and execution of Thomas Russell at Downpatrick

    near Downpatrick · town · Down · 1803

    Thomas Russell, who attempted to renew rebellion in 1803 and proclaimed himself General-in-chief of the Northern Division, was arrested, transmitted to Downpatrick, tried, and condemned on 19th October 1803. His trial ended his long association with Belfast.

    Read the passage

    We have not been able to discover with certainty whether Thomas Eussell visited Belfast when organising the rebellion of the North in 1803. The probability is in favour of the supposition. But it was in the County Down his movements principally took place. He appeared there in the uniform of a French General, and his display of this costume to a score or two of the country people was as vain as it was ludicrous. He was arrested, however, in September, and sent to Dublin, but afterwards transmitted to Downpatrick to be tried. On the 19th October his trial and condemnation occurred. The only Belfast persons who appeared at this trial were Sir James Bristow and Mr. Skinner, who were both on the jury. Mr. Joy, the future Chief Baron, was the chief counsel for the defence. This ended Thomas Eussell, so well and so long known, and in a certain degree respected, in Belfast. His fellowconspirator, Emmet, had in the meantime been also executed in Dublin.

    The County Antrim Commission to try prisoners accused of High Treason found two persons belonging to the parish of Carnmoney guilty of High Treason, and both were executed. Eussell's Proclamation was extensively cu'culated in

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 382

21. John Wesley Records Eviction of Tenants Around Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1773

    John Wesley, visiting Belfast in 1773, recorded that Lord Donegall's tenants were turned out by merchants who took their farms over their heads, driving them and their families out with no home or food, sparking the insurrections.

    Read the passage

    "1773. Tuesday, June 15th. — When I came to Belfast, I learned the real cause of the late insurrections in this neighbourhood. Lord Donegal, the proprietor of almost the whole country, came hither to give his tenants new leases. But when they came, they found two merchants of the town had taken their farms over their heads ; so that multitudes of them, with their wives and children, were turned out to the wide world. It is no wonder that, as their lives were now bitter to them, they should fly out as they did. It is ratlier a wonder that they did not go much farther. And if they had, who would have been most in fault ? Those who were without home, without money, without food for themselves and families ? or those who drove them to this extremity ? "

    This language of John Wesley is certainly striking, and tlie constant repetition of it on many occasions not less so, till it expanded into the assertion that thousands of families were driven out of their farms to make way for Catholic tenants who proposed to give higher rents. The very part of the County of Antrim in which the Hearts of Steel began is now one of the most Presbyterian districts in Ulster, so that it might not be easy to reconcile this apparent contradiction. Arthur Young, who was in the country at the period, and had a much better acquaintance with land questions, does not write at all in the same tone as Wesley, but rather palliates Lord Donegall's conduct. A Committee of the House of Commons came to the conclusion that the rents demanded were not extravagant. There is no doubt, however, that Lord Donegall became unpojiular with many well-informed persons for his conduct, and, from various incidental observations, the feeling long continued, though he never received in fines £20,000— perhaps not the half uf it.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 291

22. Siege of Belfast Barrack and Gunfire at the Gate

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1770

    The Hearts of Steel surrounded the Barrack in Belfast, demanded the release of David Douglas, and when refused by Sovereign Stewart Banks, fired many shots at the gate and over the wall.

    Read the passage

    charged with aiding and assisting in houghing (maiming) some cattle belonging to Mr. Gregg was taken prisoner in Belfast this day by Waddell Cunningham, and for security lodged in the Barrack where there were about 40 soldiers, a rescue being apprehended if lie had been sent direct to prison.^ The capture of this person excited no little commotion, and it was immediately resolved that his liberation shoidd be elTected. On the morning of the 23rd an assembly of persons, avowedly Hearts of Steel, met at Templepatrick for this purpose ; proceeded to the Meeting House there, and warned the people out, many of whom obeyed their summons, and assisted to gather others. The entire body when assembled proceeded towards Belfast, armed with guns, pistols, swords, and ruder weapons. The grand rcndezvoiis was held at a house on the Shore road called the Stag's Head, when their number was found to amount to about 1200 men, chiefly from Templepatrick, Doagh, Ballyclare, and Carnmoney. Here they were formed into regular order by an old soldier, called ^Meathes or Matthews, who afterwards gave them the slip on their entering Belfast, In their march upon the town a man of the name of Crawford was in front, on horseback, carrying before him several iron Crowbars rolled up in hay ropes for the purpose of forcing open gates or doors. On their approach to the town Stewart Banks the Sovereign, and about Twenty five other gentlemen, took refuge in the Barrack,^ and closed the Gate. On the arrival of the Steel Men in Belfast they surrounded the Barrack, and sent in a written message demanding the release of David Douglas a prisoner therein. To this Mr. Banks gave a direct refusal, on which they fired many shots at the gate and over the wall, but failing of the desired efi"ect, a party proceeded to the house of Waddell Cunningham,^ broke it open, and were in the act of destroying the furniture, when Dr. Haliday, an eminent physician of Belfast, actuated by compassion, and dreading lest the to^vn might be destroyed, mingled with the crowd assembled at Mr. Cunningham's house. After expostulating with them in vain he was taken prisoner by them and sworn, that he would immediately repair to tlie Barrack and procure the release of the prisoner, or, failing in having it effected that he would return and surrender himself a hostage. The Doctor had just reached the Barrack on this embassy, passing

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 292

23. Defence of Carrickfergus Castle Until Ammunition Exhausted

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1760

    The wretched Castle of Carrickfergus, defended only by a half-ruined wall and a few undisciplined recruits, held out manfully until all its ammunition was consumed, buying crucial time for the country to be alarmed and for militia to gather.

    Read the passage

    City wholly defenseless, & rich in money, & in great quantities of linen Cloth — much spoil would have been obtained — The Troops might have reimbarked, & the wind being then favourable they might have pursued their intended course without danger of being intercepted, and the Expugnation of the Grande Ville de Belfast wou'd have made no inconsiderable Figiire in the Bruxelles Gazette. The stand made by the wretched Castle of Carrickfergus, whose whole defense consisted in a half ruined wall, ^ a few undisciplined recruits, cou'd not be long, yet was it manfully protracted till the ammunition was all consumed — and time was given to alarm the Country. Neither was the Country alarmed in vain. The National Spirit was instantly roused. From every neighbouring county great Bodies of Manufacturers & of Peasants hastily marched with such arms as they cou'd collect, & in the space of four and twenty Hours J>elfast was secured from Insult." "As I was Lieutenant of the County of Armagh I thought it my duty to repair to the invaded Country, & waiting on his Grace the Duke of Bedford to learn his commands, was surprised & scandalized by his positive Declaration that he wou'd meet me there. Arrived at Belfast I saw Avith pleasure the situation of the Town which was crowded with Defenders. The appearance of the Peasantry, who had thronged to its Defence, many of whom were of my own Tenantry, was singular and formidable. They were drawn up in regular bodies, each with its chosen officers, and formed in martial array ; some few with old Firelocks, but the greater number armed with what is called in Scotland the Loughhaber Ax, a Scythe fixed longitudinally to the end of a long Pole, a desperate weapon, and which they seemed determined to make a desperate use of. Thousands were assembled in a small circuit, but these Thousands were so thoroughly impressed with the necessity of regularity that the town was perfectly undisturbed by Tumult, by Eiot, or even by Drunkenness." ..." On the Day of my arrival at Belfast the French Troops had been reembarked, & when I came to Carrickfergus the ships only were to be seen waiting for a favourable wind. Yet was not my Presence wholly useless. Flobert & about twenty of his men were left behind wounded, & my care to provide for them with proper lodgings & assistance was not unnecessary or ineffectual. The event of this trifling Livasion was happy & glorious. By the Spirit of the People the French had been prevented from making any mischievous Progress. Their Commander was wounded 8c a Prisoner, & the Squadron having been prevented by contrary winds from pursuing its safer course to the northward, was met in the Channel by the brave Captain Elliot with three Frigates, Avho, after an

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 285

24. Dr. Tisdall's Defence of the Island Magee Witch Trial

    near Island Magee · parish · Antrim · 1711

    Vicar William Tisdall wrote a weak defence supporting the reality of witchcraft in relation to the Island Magee Witches case, arguing that a real witch could personate a saint just as the devil could personate an angel of light. He sided with the judges who convicted the accused, showing faith in the existence and power of witches.

    Read the passage

    Tisdall did not appear to much advantage in what he writes of the Islandmagee Witches. The story of the Islandmagee Witches was printed in Belfast in 1822. At the end of it is a letter from William Tisdall, dated Belfast, 4th April, 1711 ; and if appointed to the "Vicarage in 1712, it is not easy to explain how he came to write from Belfast in 1711. It is, however, a most weak production. He says he cannot see why a real witch may not have permission to personate a real saint as well as the devil has been permitted to personate au angel of li^ht, or why a person in contract with the devil may not be guilty of this worst hypocrisy which gives her apostacy a deeper dye— alluding to Judge Upton's opinion that real witches in compact with the devil could hardly have been such regular attenders on public worship. Tisdall, though so distinguished in scholarship and preaching, appears to have sided entirely with the judges, and argues on the belief of the existence of witches, their power and practices, with as much apparent faith as on any generally acknowledged theological question.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 187

25. Mob Threatens to Drown Official in Meal Cellar

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1756

    George Macartney reported that while he was forced to quit a meal cellar in Belfast, several rioters swore they would drown him. The mob also declared they would take any money they could find from the townspeople.

    Read the passage

    " I am desired by the Corporation and principal Inhabitants of the town to send you this Memorial by Express to be delivered to the Lords Justices, and that an answer may be sent by him as soon as possible if no earlier opportunity offers, that is, if the Bearer should be tired with the Journey so as not to be able to return as soon as the Post. All Order and Government here are now at an end. ... I was informed this morning that when I was yesterday in the Meal Cellar which I was forced to quit as mentioned in the INIemorial several of them swore they would drown me. ... I was likewise informed that they (the mob) declare that they would not want money, for as long as they knew of a man that had a penny they would have a halfpenny of it. I believe their want will soon happen, for they have been doing nothing but roving about all this week, and from their behaviour I believe they will not hesitate to put their threats in execution, but then there will be no meal to buy . . . the country stopp'^ from bringing in any, and none will import for the same reason. The Cargo of an accidental Scotch ship here, about 60 Tons, is bought by eight gentlemen and to be sold at 13 shillings the hundred by which there will be loss, and yet notwithstanding it is thought the mobb will possess themselves of it and selling as they are doing Henderson's at 9s. id. . . . Henderson's will be done this day, and then none but the Scotch left. You see things are in a bad situation.

    " George Macartney."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 283

26. Recapture of Belfast Castle by Sir John Chichester

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1597

    Sir John Chichester led about 100 men by boat to Belfast Castle, taking the defenders by surprise and putting those found in it to the sword to recapture the fortress.

    Read the passage

    "Being. a place which standeth 8 miles from Kerogfergus, and on the river, wher the sea ebbes and flowes, so that botes may be landed within a butte shotte of the said Castell, for the recovery whereof I made choice that it should be one of my first workes. And on the XI daie of Julie following attempted the same with some 100 men, which I transported thether in botes by sea, and indeed our coming was so unlocked for by them as it asked us no long time before we tooke the place without anie losse to us, and put those wee founde in yt to the sworde."

    The letter proceeds to describe two other successful encounters he had with the enemy, one of which was the capture and burning of the Castle of Edenduffcarrick, and then relates —

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

27. Thomas M'Cabe's Windows Smashed in the Riot

    North Street · street · Dublin · 1793

    Thomas M'Cabe, a Belfast watchmaker and United Irishman, had all his windows broken during the military riot, with only a single pane surviving. He later filled that pane with candles during a royal celebration while leaving the broken windows unrepaired as a pointed act of defiance.

    Read the passage

    The chief name worthy to be remembered as suffering from this riot is that of Thomas M'Cabe, one of those strongly imbued with the prevailing political spirit of the time. He is said to have been a watchmaker and silversmith — was one of the most useful inhabitants, honourably united with others in founding the cotton manufacture in Belfast, frequently mentioned in Tone's Journal, and always in terms of great praise, for integrity and unselfish patriotism. When in 1786 a meeting was held here to favour the introduction of the slave trade into Belfast, M'Cabe used, in opposition to it, these memorable words, and which had the effect of diverting the unholy traffic for ever from the town : " May God wither the hand and consign the name to eternal infamy of him who first signs that document." Yet this man so worthy had all his windows broken in the riot, a single pane only in one of them escaping ; and when, soon after, the town being illuminated in honour of the King's birthday, and as an evidence of loyalty for the concession of the elective franchise to the Eornan Catholics, he, with an irony the most cutting, caused this solitary pane to be filled with caudles, all the others remaining broken and ruined as they had been left by the wreckers. It was either on this occasion or shortly before it he placed over his door — " Thomas M'Cabe, an Irish Slave, Dealer in Gold and Silver ; " which Mr. Tone, who must have been greatly tickled by the term, adopts as his political sobriquet. His residence was either at the foot of North Street or in one of the small houses which then existed where the Commercial Buildings now stand, and where several more of the leading characters of the town also dwelt. His son, Putnam M'Cabe, was a native of Belfast, and took an active part in the rebellion. He was the friend and assistant of the great leaders, the body guard of Lord Edward Fitzgerald, always escaping detection and bringing in reports from his wonderful facility of personating the most varied

    654 HISTORY OF BELFAST.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 313

28. Blood disguised as a priest escapes into the Glens

    near Glenarm · village · Antrim · 1663

    Fleeing capture near Antrim, Colonel Blood was almost caught by Lord Mount Alexander but succeeded in escaping into the Glens of Antrim, where he passed himself off as a Roman Catholic priest before making his way to Scotland.

    Read the passage

    Colonel Blood's history occupies many pages in the Pinlcerton MSS. They are rather local, as is the following notice in the Rawdon papers, in a letter from Lord Conway from Lisburn to Sir George Rawdon, dated 18th jS'ovember, 1663 (p. 202): — "I set out guards immediately upon all the avenues near this place into the Counties of Down and Antrim where they have since continued night and day, and because the next was* our market day, which gave Blood the opportunity of passing by us. I sent the same instant to Col. Hill to keep a good guard at Hillsborough, and I raised the country that night to keep watch upon all the ways through Kilulta into the county of Antrim." Lord Conway proceeds at some length to express his disappointment and annoyance at not being able to discover where Blood had hid himself ; but at this point the Pinkerton MSS. take up the story, and tell a few words more of his escape on this occasion, though we are left in the dark as to the authority or where obtained. They, however, relate " that Blood passed Lisburn as Lord Conway tells by taking advantage of a market day. ... At Antrim he was almost caught by Lord M* Alexander but he succeeded in making his escape into the country of the Glens where he passed for a Roman Catholic priest." A great deal more is written of his escape from the Glens into Scotland, where he fought at RuUion Green. *' He came back again to Ireland, landing two miles from Carrickfergus where he was nearly caught by Lord Dungannon." These evasions and escapes of the arch-conspirator are curious, and his whole history is entered into in connection with the north of Ireland plot — said to have been concocted by Presbyterians, ministers and others — ending with these lines by Andrew Marvell—

    " When daring Blood, his rent to have regained, Upon the English diadem distrained ; He chose the cassock, surcingle, and gown, The fittest mask for one that robs the crown : But his lay pity underneath prevailed, And while he saved the keeper's life he failed, With the priest's vestments had he but put on The priestly cruelty — the crown had gone."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 347

29. Daily Funeral Processions Through Belfast Streets

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1689–1690

    The disease and mortality afflicting Schomberg's army spread to the town itself, with a contemporary witness recalling standing on the street of Belfast and seeing ten or a dozen corpses of townspeople carried past within half an hour.

    Read the passage

    Hospital of Belfast, as it was called, to be at the head of which Dr. Lawrence was despatched from the camp by the general.^ Thomas Pottinger alludes to this hospital in his petition, his words therein leaving it to be inferred that the establishment was originated by his individual exertions. Yet notwithstanding its hoped-for efficacy, so great was the mortality that from the 1st November to 1st May following 3762 men died within it.^ So dreadful a calamity could not happen without affecting the health and condition of the town itself, not yet restored to a settled state by its returning inhabitants ; and accordingly the same authority informs us that " he has sometimes stood upon the street (of Belfast) and seen ten or a dozen corpses of the townspeople go by in little more than half-an-hour."^

    These statements may be beyond the truth, but there is no doubt that this first Enghsh army was greatly weakened by disease only, to the extent, according to some accounts, of nearly one-half of its entire number. In consequence of this it required to be recruited from England and elsewhere with fresh levies from time to time, and the accounts of the arrival of these troops in Belfast make occasionally very lively pictures. This town became the principal place for the troops, Lisburn being chosen for Schomberg's head-quarters. The remains of the broken army and the new arrivals were disposed of during the remainder of the winter and the early months of 1690 in convenient quarters, to recruit their strength* and prepare for the eventful summer, when, it was expected, William would himself lead them in person to the strife of kings.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 84

30. Execution of Antonio de Silva at the Three Sisters gallows

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1810

    Antonio de Silva was conveyed to the place of execution about a mile from Carrickfergus, known as the Three Sisters, consisting of three tall columns with a cross-beam on the bare sea-shore. He was hanged there dressed in a white surplice, accompanied by two Roman Catholic priests, and denied his guilt through an interpreter.

    Read the passage

    three tall columns, with a cross-beam, to which the rope was attached. They stood on the bare sea-shore, and were familiarly known by the name of the Three Sisters. The criminal was dressed in a white surplice, by his own particular desire, and accompanied by two Eoman Catholic priests. Through Mr. Eedfern, of Belfast, who spoke his language, and who had been interpreter for him at his trial, he denied his guilt.

    Another example of death and the grave occurred in 1810, not of so sad a character as the preceding ; so far from that, quite peculiar and original. An honest Belfast man left these directions to his executors — " Let as little as possible be expended on my funeral, my firm opinion being that what is so spent is nothing but a Eobbery on the remaining part of the Family. Let my coffin be of plain Deal, painted either black or oak colour, which you like, with no escutcheons except the . two holes at the end, neither name nor age on it ; no hearse, no head-stone, no scarf, no gloves, no spirits, tobacco, or pipes. All these are utterly vain and useless, not meaning to restrict you, but exercise your discretion to a necessary refreshment to my particular friends and the bearers of my bier, as my house will afford. The Poor House Grave Yard being the nearest, though more expensive than the others, I suppose, and the money applied to charitable purposes, I wish you to give it the preference."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 386

31. Executions at the Old Market House, Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1798

    Following the 1798 rebellion, six persons found guilty were executed within Belfast's streets, all put to death at the old Market House. One prisoner was hanged from a lamp-post near the Market House, and the heads of the executed were placed on poles to blacken in the sun.

    Read the passage

    June, 1798, was the month in which, as some enthusiasts said at the time, "the war commenced;" but which others, seeing the frequent interruptions, " the hopes delayed," the weakened ranks, the disunited party, were wont to describe with more accuracy as that in which the bubble burst. The Sunday preceding the actual outbreak is still traditionally called "Pike Sunday," as being that on which these weapons were sharpened for the coming fray. There was no battle or bloodshed in Belfast, but Antrim and Ballynahinch, neither very distant from it, were the centres of two of the most serious struggles which took place in the North of Ireland in 1798. The roar of the battle in the latter place was distinctly heard in Belfast, it is said, during its progress. All business was suspended, the several avenues to the town were guarded, and military law prevailed. When the warfare ended, and a reckoning was made of those who were undoubtedly guilty, it w^as found that only six could be capitally convicted, who were resident here or brought into the town, all of whom suffered death within our streets. The executions took place at the old Market House, so often mentioned in other and more peaceful relations. One of the prisoners was hanged on a lamp-post near or opposite to the Market House, and the heads of the culprits are generally described as having been put on poles to blacken in the sun. Some escapes and hairbreadth

    ^ Some of the preceding extracts are drawn from Wright's History of Ireland, vol. ii., pp. 628-638, wliich gives a view of the general history at much length — of course devoid of local detail.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 315

32. Hearts of Steel Agrarian Unrest Originates on Donegall Estates

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1770–1771

    The Hearts of Steel agrarian combination began on the Donegall estates near Belfast, driven by disputes over rent increases and leases taken by Belfast merchants over the heads of tenants. The unrest led to violence and insubordination spreading through Antrim and neighbouring counties.

    Read the passage

    A GREAT commotion occurred in Belfast in 1770-71, occasioned by the action of the body called the Hearts of Steel, Some valuable, and, it is believed, original materials regarding this outbreak have been obtained. The Hearts of Steel having been an agrarian combination, it may be asked why a town should have been in any manner connected with the proceedings of those who assumed the name. This was caused by the fact, or at any rate the current statement, that it was on the Donegall estates adjoining Belfast' the association had its beginning, and that the owner of this town and some merchants in it incurred the animosity of the agricultural body in the neighbourhood for dealing with lands in their occupation to their supposed injury and loss. The old leases granted by the Donegall family at the commencement of the century, when the common rent of arable land was about 2s. 6d. an acre, had fallen ; and it was now considered, after so great a lapse of time, and the occurrence of some circumstances leading to an increased value of produce, that eight shillings an acre ^ for land not far from Belfast would not be unreasonable. It is impracticable now to reach the exact truth in details, or to ascertain whether or not fines were proposed to be exacted besides an increased rent. An eminent historian uses the following words on this subject : — " The Tenants, all Protestants, ofiered the interest of the money in addition to the rent, but speculative Belfast capitalists paid the Fine, and took the land over the heads of the Tenants to sublet." ^ It is not said

    ^ This was the increased rent, according to the statement of Mr. Samuel M'Skimin, who gave much attention to this subject. * The English in Ireland, voL ii., p. 119.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 291

33. Militiamen Executed at Blaris Moor for United Irish Sympathies

    Blaris · townland · Down · 1797

    Several Monaghan militiamen who had joined the United Irishmen were tried by court-martial, and four of them were shot at Blaris Moor while the rest were pardoned. Their comrades' anger over this episode was linked by some to the subsequent attack on the Northern Star office.

    Read the passage

    Another version of the motives of the militiamen for committing this outrage has been current. Many of them had joined the United Irishmen, and for this four of the number, after a trial by court-martial, were shot at Blaris Moor ; the others were pardoned. The men, irritated at their position, or inflamed with a desire to exhibit that zeal common to recent converts, caused a short paper to be written almost exculpatory of their own conduct and that of their dead comrades, throwing the blame of their misleading on the rebellious or disaffected place in which they were stationed. They tendered this for insertion in the Star, where it was refused, the editor thinking that it conveyed an untrue imputation on the character of the town. The men were dissatisfied at this, and wreaked their vengeance on the office in the manner which has been stated.

    Even the preceding may not be all that could be wished for of the last days of the Northern Star. A few words more, obtained from the publication itself, and therefore likely to be more strictly correct, will in consequence be excused. In the first volume in the Linen Hall Library is the deed of partnership, printed on a detached slip, with the signature of each proprietor appended in his own handwriting. On the 3rd February, 1797, there is a small printed paper, stating that "in consequence of the Star office being taken possession of this morning by Colonel Barber, a King's messenger, and Military Guard, the Proprietors of the Newspaper have it not in their power to publish this Day. For tliis disappointment of their numerous friends and readers they are sincerely sorry ; and so soon as this restraint of Government permits them to resume the regular publication of the Paper, the Public may rely on being regularly supplied with it on the accustomed plan."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 213

34. Barricade Erected at Milewater Against French Threat

    near Milewater · river · Antrim · 1760

    As the French threatened to burn Belfast if provisions were not sent, a strong barricade was erected at the Milewater using picks, shovels, hatchets, and handsaws lent by townspeople, while volunteers and militia rushed to defend the town.

    Read the passage

    Belfast did not escape from all loss on this memorable occasion. Accounts from equally trustworthy sources^ relate private details probably not known to Lord Charlemont. The day succeeding that on which Carrickfergus -was taken by the French a peremptory demand was made by the enemy on the inhabitants of this town to send them large quantities of wine, brandy, beer, bread, and cattle. If not immediately complied with tliey declared both Carrickfergus and Belfast would be at once burned. Two lighters were accordingly loaded with pro- A'isions, but the weather being stormy only one of them sailed, and even it was stopped by a tender in the bay. The French on observing this repeated their menaces against Belfast, upon which eight or ten carts were despatched with food. Only two of these reached their destination, but at the same time the detained lighter was permitted to pass on to Carrickfergus. The other carts were seized by the townsmen, encouraged by the ciowds of volunteers and militia hurrying into the town to fight the French. A strong barricade was erected at the Milewater,^ The safety of the town was soon assured, more than 5000 volunteers having assembled for its defence. The actual loss which Belfast sustained, made up by charges incurred for the volunteers, the payment for provisions, and other contingent expenses, amounted to £1365, which the Government repaid. Belfast had a fortunate escape on this occasion, though Thurot indignantly denied that he had ever threatened, or intended, to

    1 Belfast News- Letter ; Sleator's Public Ga',etteer, 1760; Commons' Journals.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 286

35. Colonel Blood's narrow escape through Lisburn

    near Lisburn · town · Antrim · 1663

    During a manhunt for the conspirator Colonel Blood, Lord Conway set guards on all avenues near Lisburn into Down and Antrim, but Blood managed to pass through the town by taking advantage of market day, evading capture.

    Read the passage

    Colonel Blood's history occupies many pages in the Pinlcerton MSS. They are rather local, as is the following notice in the Rawdon papers, in a letter from Lord Conway from Lisburn to Sir George Rawdon, dated 18th jS'ovember, 1663 (p. 202): — "I set out guards immediately upon all the avenues near this place into the Counties of Down and Antrim where they have since continued night and day, and because the next was* our market day, which gave Blood the opportunity of passing by us. I sent the same instant to Col. Hill to keep a good guard at Hillsborough, and I raised the country that night to keep watch upon all the ways through Kilulta into the county of Antrim." Lord Conway proceeds at some length to express his disappointment and annoyance at not being able to discover where Blood had hid himself ; but at this point the Pinkerton MSS. take up the story, and tell a few words more of his escape on this occasion, though we are left in the dark as to the authority or where obtained. They, however, relate " that Blood passed Lisburn as Lord Conway tells by taking advantage of a market day. ... At Antrim he was almost caught by Lord M* Alexander but he succeeded in making his escape into the country of the Glens where he passed for a Roman Catholic priest." A great deal more is written of his escape from the Glens into Scotland, where he fought at RuUion Green. *' He came back again to Ireland, landing two miles from Carrickfergus where he was nearly caught by Lord Dungannon." These evasions and escapes of the arch-conspirator are curious, and his whole history is entered into in connection with the north of Ireland plot — said to have been concocted by Presbyterians, ministers and others — ending with these lines by Andrew Marvell—

    " When daring Blood, his rent to have regained, Upon the English diadem distrained ; He chose the cassock, surcingle, and gown, The fittest mask for one that robs the crown : But his lay pity underneath prevailed, And while he saved the keeper's life he failed, With the priest's vestments had he but put on The priestly cruelty — the crown had gone."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 347

36. Secret night-time preaching in the Glens near Comber

    near Comber · town · Down · 1660–1685

    Because soldiers were quartered in many houses, Presbyterians in the area had to slip out after the soldiers were asleep and return before dawn to attend secret nighttime sermons preached by Gilbert Kennedy in the Glens near Comber. Parents carried infants from Lisburn and surrounding country to be baptised by him under these dangerous conditions.

    Read the passage

    Tyrone, where his descendants are respectable and numerous. Daring the administration of Strafford, the Presbyterians of Ireland were almost as ill-treated as those of Scotland, so that Gilbert had still great hardships to contend with. He preached in the Glens near Comber, in the starlight ; and as soldiers were quartered in many of the houses, the people had to leave home after the soldiers were asleep, and return before they were up next morning. They carried their children from Lisburn and all the surrounding country to be baptised by him. In 1670, Bishop Leslie paid a visit to Boyle, Bishop of Down, and urged him to use his power, which he did presently, in a very vigorous manner, by summoning twelve of the ministers of Down to his Court, and going on with excommunication against them. Among these were Gilbert Kennedy and Michael Bruce, the latter of whom had but lately returned to his parish after sufferings and long imprisonment in Scotland. Through the interference of the Primate, this new intended persecution fell to the ground. The difficulties and discouragements that the early Presbyterian Fathers in their settlement in Ulster had to encounter were gradually disappearing, a brighter era was at hand, the Prince of Orange had ascended the throne, and the dismal die of persecution was about to be obliterated. Gilbert Kennedy was minister of Comber, Dundonald, and Holywood until his death, and his remains were interred in the aisle of Dundonald Church, where his name still appears upon his tomb.

    Gilbert, son of Gilbert (primus), was minister of Tullylish, where he was greatly beloved, and continued that ministry until his death in 1745. He was married to a Miss Laing.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 441

37. Slaughter at the breast-work near Blackwater

    Blackwater · townland · Clare · 1642

    Near Blackwater, about a mile from Charlemont, rebel forces defended a ford in a breast-work at the site where Tyrone once defeated Bagenal; the defenders were routed and around 20-30 men, mostly gentlemen, were slain when cavalry charged through a deep ford.

    Read the passage

    best men and most of them Gentlemen defended it gallantlye, untill the Horse phmged tlirough a deep fooid and charged them within the worke, there being a waie to enter above it, where every man of the 20 or 30 were Slaiiie, and no hnrt on oure side, save that Maior Crawford and Capt° liawden's horses were shott in the pursuite of those that fledd our horse, and came verie neare S"" Phelomie liimselfe; if they had knowne it, he would not have eskaped, for he fledd towards Dangaimon with not above 2 or 3 in his Companie ; he could not retire unto Charlemont. because some of our men were gone between him and the Place. Presentlye after about 12 of the Clocke, wee marched on towardes Charlemont, which was long a doing in respect of a Caussey and bridge that they had broken which was long a-mending. Att our Arrivall neare the Towne, the Commander of the fore Troope by order of the Lord Montgomerie summoned the Eebelles to deliver upp the Towne and Castle, Otherwise to expect no quarter for man woman or child. They alledged they kept it for the King, and desyred time till the next day, being Thursday at One of the Clocke, which was denyed, his Lo""? beleeving that in that time they expected ayd or would provide the Castle of victualles out of the Towne; and wee could not hold a long Siege, being unprovided both of victualles and ammunition ; bread we had none at home to bringe out, and having no monney to doe any thing ; if our Store had been gre iter, Carriage was verie hard to be gotten, Soe that it was resolved to fall uppon there trenches that night and to that purpose longe faggotts were presentlye made, and in the twilight foure parties were sent out, who tilled upp the trenches and assaulted the Towne in foure places, and gott over without any difficultye, the most parte of the Eebelles having quitt them, and fyred the Towne and runne into the Castle before our men could gett over to them. Our men laid in the trenches, and about the Castle all night ; and by daise Shott at the windo^v's without any great harme on either side. The next dale being Weddensdaie verie earlye advertizement came from S'" William Brumley, a Prissoner in Dungannon, for that he and Lieut"*^ Martin, and some others there. Seeing our tents 5 miles from them at Charlemont, took a resolution to endeavour their owne freedome, and that night joyned together, and with the helpe of some Irish that had formerly had relacon to them seized upon the Capf^ and became masters of the forte, whereupon the Lord Montgomerie, with all the Horse and a good parte of Miisquitiers, marched immediately to Dungannon with great care and wariness, least this had bene a tricke of the Eebelles to force tliis letter from S"" William ; but it was found reall, and the Castle deluded, and upon debate it was resolved to leave a Garrisson of 100 men, and to hange the former Capf^ and his men ; and Capt° Jones, a Capt° in the Lord Conwaie's Eegiment, thought one as verie fitt to command there, and had left with him 80 foote of his Companie and a squadron of Capt" Eawden's Horse, and other more to mount more of his foote upon occasion. Having intelligence there, that the Ladie Blaynie was kept in the woods 4 miles from Monnaghan, which is burned, all the Horse were sent immediately towardes IMonnaghan ; they marched all night, there way was tlirough Kinnard, where 2 Y

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 333

38. Assault and siege of Charlemont Castle

    near Charlemont · village · Armagh · 1642

    The English and Scotch forces summoned the rebels at Charlemont to surrender the town and castle or expect no quarter for man, woman or child. When refused time, the attackers filled the trenches with faggots and stormed the town in four places that night, forcing the rebels to burn the town and retreat into the castle.

    Read the passage

    best men and most of them Gentlemen defended it gallantlye, untill the Horse phmged tlirough a deep fooid and charged them within the worke, there being a waie to enter above it, where every man of the 20 or 30 were Slaiiie, and no hnrt on oure side, save that Maior Crawford and Capt° liawden's horses were shott in the pursuite of those that fledd our horse, and came verie neare S"" Phelomie liimselfe; if they had knowne it, he would not have eskaped, for he fledd towards Dangaimon with not above 2 or 3 in his Companie ; he could not retire unto Charlemont. because some of our men were gone between him and the Place. Presentlye after about 12 of the Clocke, wee marched on towardes Charlemont, which was long a doing in respect of a Caussey and bridge that they had broken which was long a-mending. Att our Arrivall neare the Towne, the Commander of the fore Troope by order of the Lord Montgomerie summoned the Eebelles to deliver upp the Towne and Castle, Otherwise to expect no quarter for man woman or child. They alledged they kept it for the King, and desyred time till the next day, being Thursday at One of the Clocke, which was denyed, his Lo""? beleeving that in that time they expected ayd or would provide the Castle of victualles out of the Towne; and wee could not hold a long Siege, being unprovided both of victualles and ammunition ; bread we had none at home to bringe out, and having no monney to doe any thing ; if our Store had been gre iter, Carriage was verie hard to be gotten, Soe that it was resolved to fall uppon there trenches that night and to that purpose longe faggotts were presentlye made, and in the twilight foure parties were sent out, who tilled upp the trenches and assaulted the Towne in foure places, and gott over without any difficultye, the most parte of the Eebelles having quitt them, and fyred the Towne and runne into the Castle before our men could gett over to them. Our men laid in the trenches, and about the Castle all night ; and by daise Shott at the windo^v's without any great harme on either side. The next dale being Weddensdaie verie earlye advertizement came from S'" William Brumley, a Prissoner in Dungannon, for that he and Lieut"*^ Martin, and some others there. Seeing our tents 5 miles from them at Charlemont, took a resolution to endeavour their owne freedome, and that night joyned together, and with the helpe of some Irish that had formerly had relacon to them seized upon the Capf^ and became masters of the forte, whereupon the Lord Montgomerie, with all the Horse and a good parte of Miisquitiers, marched immediately to Dungannon with great care and wariness, least this had bene a tricke of the Eebelles to force tliis letter from S"" William ; but it was found reall, and the Castle deluded, and upon debate it was resolved to leave a Garrisson of 100 men, and to hange the former Capf^ and his men ; and Capt° Jones, a Capt° in the Lord Conwaie's Eegiment, thought one as verie fitt to command there, and had left with him 80 foote of his Companie and a squadron of Capt" Eawden's Horse, and other more to mount more of his foote upon occasion. Having intelligence there, that the Ladie Blaynie was kept in the woods 4 miles from Monnaghan, which is burned, all the Horse were sent immediately towardes IMonnaghan ; they marched all night, there way was tlirough Kinnard, where 2 Y

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 333

39. Chichester holds Con O'Neill prisoner at Carrickfergus castle

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1601

    Sir Arthur Chichester reports that Con O'Neill, who had revolted with 350 Bonnaghts, is now his prisoner held in the royal castle at Carrickfergus, following a successful attack on the rebel camp in which the Scot Vstone MacDonnell and diverse others were slain.

    Read the passage

    My last letters imported howe I was deuerted from prosecutinge the business upon the borders of Tyronne thorowe the perfidious reuolte of Con Oneyle w* 350 Bonnaglits leade by Vstone M'Donnell nephewe to Eandall, my endevouis upon them haue hade so good succease that Con is nowe prisoner w* me in tliis her Maiesties Castle. Vstone the Scote and diuerse others slayne to w°'' ende I brought them by charginge tlieir campe in the fastnage wher tliey laye. This countrie is well quite of such dauiigerous enimies who had j dotted a stronge partie w* Brian M'Arte, they all to be assysted upon shorts ■warnings from Tyronne, and hauinge gotten into the iJuffren (of w^h the Scote wrote himselfe lorde tlie countrie wholly reuoltinge "w^ him) all loose and Idle men from his two vncles of the Roote and Glynnes resorted unto him. and he woulde haue byne a troublesome enimie hade not god ouerthrowne his treacherous and mishoifuos designes. I can accuse his vncles as yet of no greater faulte then temporisinge they hauinge (to my knoweledge) geuen no assystance to Tyronne sines thsy wsrs pardoned, what they wyll doe hauinge sntellygence of the Spaniardes footinge in IMunster is uncertayne their hartes beinge vnknowen unto me. I have an other Nepheue of theirs prisoner w<''> I gott followenge Vstone beinge seconde in commande ; I liaue geuen my lord Deputie notice of these thinges and knowe yt my deuetie to imparte yt to your honors hauings the opurtunitie of Collonell Egertons resorts to the Courte, who beinge lieere for passinge his estate of Constableshipe of this Castle to his kynsman Cap* Seckfoorde is nowe readie to take sliippinge for his retourne, ther hauinge byne no thorowe proceedinge betwyxt his kynsman and liim, for that Cap* Seckfoorde thinkes his liauinge such a place maye sometyme hinder his other aduancements by the warres to w^'* profession he niyndes to betake himselfe and this might call him from followenge liis charge w*^ his companie ; Thuss much I ams requested by them both to aduertise in respect your honore hath byne pleased to haue some foreknowledge in this matter by fauouringe them in procuringe the queens letters to this purpose. And knowenge the saftie of this lier maiesties towns, my pooreselfe and her poeple are vnder the garde

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 338

40. Con O'Neill's men brawl at Belfast over stolen wine, soldier killed

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1603

    Con O'Neill sent men from Castlereagh to Belfast to buy wine, but soldiers in the town beat and robbed them; a return skirmish resulted in the killing of a soldier and several wounded on both sides, leading to O'Neill's imprisonment.

    Read the passage

    While Con O'JSTeill thus resided at Castlereagh, events connected with liim and Belfast are related which cannot but awaken curiosity, as seemingly contradictory to the evidence that the town entirely dates its existence from the time of its possession by Sir Arthur Chichester. The matter referred to ^ is the wellknown narrative that O'Neill, having " a grand debauch " at Castlereagh with his friends and retainers, probably not an unfrequent occurrence, sent his men to Belfast with " runlets " to purchase wine there ; but the soldiers in the town attacked, beat, and abused them, and, worst of all, took possession of the wine. This so enraged Con that he ordered them to return to the town to revenge this great affront. They did so, and in the scuffle a soldier was killed, and several of the combatants on both sides wounded. O'Neill was in consequence declared guilty of levying war against the State, and imprisoned like a common felon in Carrickfergus.

    This melancholy downfall from the days when his forefathers contended with the Lord Deputy or others of high station, ultimately sealed his fate as possessor of Southern Clannaboye. The story is familiar to most readers — how James Hamilton united with Montgomery to save him from possible death and utter worldly ruin, by rescuing him from prison, by guaranteeing

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 38

41. Death of Thurot in Naval Engagement

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1760

    After the failed invasion, Thurot's squadron was intercepted in the Channel by Captain Elliot with three frigates; after an engagement of about an hour and a half, Thurot was killed and his entire force captured.

    Read the passage

    Engagement of about an hour & a half, and the Death of Thurot, had the glory & satisfaction of bringing into the English Ports the whole Force."

    Belfast did not escape from all loss on this memorable occasion. Accounts from equally trustworthy sources^ relate private details probably not known to Lord Charlemont. The day succeeding that on which Carrickfergus -was taken by the French a peremptory demand was made by the enemy on the inhabitants of this town to send them large quantities of wine, brandy, beer, bread, and cattle. If not immediately complied with tliey declared both Carrickfergus and Belfast would be at once burned. Two lighters were accordingly loaded with pro- A'isions, but the weather being stormy only one of them sailed, and even it was stopped by a tender in the bay. The French on observing this repeated their menaces against Belfast, upon which eight or ten carts were despatched with food. Only two of these reached their destination, but at the same time the detained lighter was permitted to pass on to Carrickfergus. The other carts were seized by the townsmen, encouraged by the ciowds of volunteers and militia hurrying into the town to fight the French. A strong barricade was erected at the Milewater,^ The safety of the town was soon assured, more than 5000 volunteers having assembled for its defence. The actual loss which Belfast sustained, made up by charges incurred for the volunteers, the payment for provisions, and other contingent expenses, amounted to £1365, which the Government repaid. Belfast had a fortunate escape on this occasion, though Thurot indignantly denied that he had ever threatened, or intended, to

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 286

42. Execution of coiner J. Dunbar at Carrickfergus, 1725

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1725

    J. Dunbar, likely a practising coiner in Belfast, was tried and condemned for high treason (coining) at Carrickfergus and executed there on 10 April 1725. His dying speech thanked the Presbyterian clergy of Belfast who had remembered him in their public services before his death.

    Read the passage

    ^ This Bromfield is somewhere stated to have been a spy. If is punishment Avas imprisonment, and the surrender of his "forging instruments;" the fact being, perhaps, another instance of the advance whiidi the Cromwellian Government had made in the amelioration of the criminal law, and which totally lost ground again, as is well known, in times thoup;ht to have been far more enlightened than the middle of tlie seventeenth century. A proof of this is opportunely afforded by the trial of another coiner, most likely also a practiser in Belfast, and the contrast which his fate offers to that of Bromfield is worth noting. It is the "Last speech, confession and dying words of J. Dunbar, who was Try'd and condemned for High Treason against his Majesty King George, at Carrickfergus, and executed for the same April 10th 1725." The high treason was coining, and the poor man testifies his contrition and thanks in the following manner: — "He thanks the Lord for inspiring the hearts and minds of those learned Gentlemen the Clergy of the Town of Belfast who were pleased to remember him in their public services joined with their Congregations on Sunday last," and concludes — " I die in the Presbyterian communion and ujjwards of fifty }'ears of age." — Abbreviated from, the Pinkerton MSS.

    loG HISTOKY OF BELFAST.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 66

43. Famine and fever of 1799-1800 in Belfast

    Smithfield · site · Limerick · 1799–1800

    Two disastrous seasons of bad weather destroyed the corn crops around Belfast, leading to severe famine conditions and dependence on relief through a public Soup Kitchen established in Smithfield. Prices of oatmeal and other staples rose dramatically, and the poor suffered greatly from hunger and cold.

    Read the passage

    These home arguments of Mr, Tatters and his brethren of the " Poke " were not required to excite the people of Belfast to display their benevolence. The Soup Kitchen was established in Smithfield, in which place, and in the streets aad lanes immediately adjoining, the poorer classes of the town then chiefly dwelt. It was on the 5th of Xovember, 1799, the Soup Establishment was announced as being put up. The distress increasing as the winter advanced, tickets were given to the helpless — and, indeed, it was full time to meet the calamity, the price of oatmeal, then the general food of the people, having risen at the end of the year nearly to four times its price in the winter of 1878 and '79. History here again repeats itself. The Bishop of Down, then resident in Belfast, took great interest in the Soup Kitchen, occupying the chair occasionally at the meetings. The record of proceedings at this era is worth preserving as a contrast to the action of 1879 with an entirely similar object. One thousand and ninety-two people were served in four days, each with a quart of soup, a piece of meat, and a pennyworth of bread. At a meeting of the committee in December, the Eeverend William Bristow in the chair, it was said " the expenses of 2600 quarts of soup, including attendance, wages, and fuel, and the distribution of it in . seven days ending on Sunday last, amounted to £10 17s. 10|d., bread same time £8 2s. 4d., weekly expenses to £19 Os. 2 id., by which upwards of 300 persons have been daily supplied with soup and bread. It was resolved that nine tickets should be sold for one shilling and a penny, each of which would entitle the bearer to one quart of soup and one pennyworth of bread. Should this plan be encouraged by the inhabitants, a greater number will be issued by the committee, and as all the Badgcd Begging Poor have received tickets already, it is hoped the purchasers of

    1799] FAMINE OF 1799. 17

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 379

44. First party-political killings in North Street, Belfast

    North Street · street · Dublin · 1813

    The author recalls that the first lives lost to sectarian/political collision in Belfast occurred in 1813, when two men were shot in North Street. This event caused great consternation at the time, though it was later overshadowed by worse violence.

    Read the passage

    The Political feeling has greatly altered of late years. The party animosity has become, during the last twenty years, more marked, disgraceful, and disastrous than it was in the beginning of the century. We remember when, so far as we know, the first lives were lost by party colHsion. It was in 1813, when two men were shot in North Street. This excited wonderful consternation, and yet we know it was nothing compared with later events. About sixteen years ago, more than a dozen persons were killed in the streets of Belfast, and the town was for several days in possession of a riotous mob. This has given Belfast a bad name in England, and strangers from that country have landed at our quays with pistols in their pockets to defend themselves. We have never seen this, but can very well believe it. A little army is required to keep the town in order on the anniversaries of events that happened nearly two hundred years ago.

    The Eeclamations from the sea during this century have been immense. Old men are accustomed to say, that where streets of respectable appearance now are, and through which now they feebly totter, they bathed in the salt sea in their boyish days. The Point fields were then an unoccupied waste, and the waters beside them were the customary bathing-places of the inhabitants of the north end of the town. Now, both the "bathing-places and the fields are converted into great docks and warehouses, or streets abounding with the working classes. On the other side of the town it is the same ; where the principal markets now are was a literal swamp up till 1810, and we believe considerably later. There was a dock behind Ann Street connected with the Lagan, serving for the timber ponds, which appear to have been sufficient then for the wants of the town. These have since been filled up, and Police Square now occupies their site. We have said scarcely anything about the County Down side of Belfast; but the reclamations of land

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 413

45. M'Bride's Portrait Pierced by an Official's Sword

    near Belfast · city · Antrim

    When an official went to John M'Bride's house in Belfast to arrest him for non-juring and found he had fled to Scotland, the enraged man thrust his sword through the hand in M'Bride's portrait; the hole is still visible in the painting kept in the vestry of the First Congregation, Belfast.

    Read the passage

    it required him to swear tluit the Preteuder was not the son of King James the Second, wliich he alleged he could not conscientiously do. For this modified form of non-jurorism, however, he was so much persecuted tluit he had to fly for safety to Scotland ; and so sensitive were the autliorities at any evasion or infringement of their decrees, that when an excited oHicial went to his house in Tielfast to arrest him, and found that he had fled, he thrust his sword, in liis imjxitent anger, througli the baud in his picture.^ There is much about Mr. M'Bride in Presbyterian Loyalty, no doubt perfectly authentic, and his unreserved language occasionally made him a ready subject for Dr. Tisdall's charges against the general body. Besides his attempted arrest in Belfast, he was summoned to Dublin to explain his offence of publishing, as from a Presbyterian source, a sermon in advocacy of the opinion " that the Christian

    1 This contemporary portrait of the Rev. John il' Bride hangs at this moment in the vestry of the First Congregation, Belfast. The orifice made by the sword through the band, though now much filled in with paint and varnish, is still quite discoverable. It is the portrait of a good-humoured, genial man, entirely destitute — so far as pictures can tell us — of all evil thoughts to king, country, or fellow-creature.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 197

46. Military Riot in Belfast: Attack on Signboards and Windows

    North Street · street · Dublin · 1793

    Loyalist dragoons newly arrived in Belfast attacked signboards depicting French revolutionary figures, tore down the sign of Dumourier in North Street, destroyed the windows of Mr. M'Cabe and Miss Wills, and threatened the Northern Star office. The riot was one of several military disturbances before the rebellion of 1798.

    Read the passage

    who had just arrived in the town, seeing no living enemies, attacked the harmless images. They succeeded in pulling down the sign of Dumourier ^ which was above the door of a publican in North Street; "they sallied then to Mr. M'Cabe's and destroyed all his windows; then did the same to 'the house of a milliner, Miss Wills, in the Main Street (High Street), where some volunteer caps and cockades were displayed; they tore down the sign of Dr. Franklin at Watson's in Forest Lane, and attacked in a reckless manner several inhabitants." They only threatened on this occasion the Northern Star office, but it is possible that if they had not been brought to order by the exertions of their officers and the civil power, the printing in that establishment might have come to a premature and violent end much sooner than it really did. A most excellent letter on this subject, written by a lady resident in Belfast, in which is an account of this, the first of several military riots which happened a short time before the rebellion, is among Dr. Drennan's letters. It differs but little from the above report, but is more original, and as it contains several points and allusions referring to the state of the town in 1793, no excuse is needed for the introduction of a few extracts from it. The writer was the sister of Dr. Dreunan, and partook of his political opinions and ardour, and no small portion of his talent.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 312

47. Mob Rule Prevents Justice from Issuing Warrants

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1756

    The Corporation of Belfast agreed that no justice dared issue a warrant against mob members, as the offending justice's house would be pulled down and himself demolished with it, showing the total breakdown of law enforcement in the town.

    Read the passage

    ". . . . I have consulted the Corporation on the Government's answer, and they all agree that there is no Dependence or Security without the Army, and the Town must in all probability be starved for none will bring in Meal either by Land or Sea till they can be secured of their Property which is impossible while the Mobb commands as is the present case, for no Justice dare Issue a Warrant against one of them, and if he did it would be to no purpose, as his house would be pulled down, and Himself be demolished with it. In the hurry when I wrote to you I forgot to send Joy's news article or advertisement Avhich you will see was a very infamous one upon the Occasion, and had the Worst Tendency. I called the Corporation together upon it last Wednesday and they thought as I did. We sent for him and he pretended he had no bad intention. I reprimanded him severely for it, and told him if in his next paper he did not contradict it flatly as utterly false and scandalous, as it really was, he might blame himself for the consequences. He next day gave in something to that purpose but quite impertinent, and a short article was given him to insert in yesterday's paper, conceived in the modestest terms, but behold ! it did not appear, which is a manifest contempt. Pray what is to be done with him 1 Will an indictment take place or what else, for though nobody be mentioned it is well known who are reflected on ]

    "George Macartney."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 284

48. Monro seizes Belfast by surprise, 1644

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1644

    On 14 May 1644, General Monro marched swiftly on Belfast and, aided by a sergeant of Captain MacAdam's company who opened the gate, took the town before the garrison under Colonel Chichester could organise resistance, seizing its cannon and fortifications.

    Read the passage

    ing till the next morning had gone to their lodgings, when a soldier of Colonel Chichester's regiment coming from Carrickfergu3 brought intelligence that General Monro had directed the garrison of that place — Colonel Hume's and other Scotch regiments— to be ready to march at two o'clock next morning towards Belfast. " The guards thereupon were strengthened, and every officer, as well those of the field as others, ordered upon duty. Some horse were sent as scouts to make discoveries, who, returning at six in the morning, affirmed that they had been witliin three miles of Carrickfergus, and that the whole country was clear. . . . About an hour after, Monro was descried Avithin half-a-mile of the town advancing with great speed towards one of the gates, which, before the drums could beat and the garrison be drawn together to make opposition, was opened to him by a sergeant of Captain MacAdam's and the soldiers of the guard, so that he inarched orderly through the place till he came to the opposite or south gate leading to Lisnegarvey, and tlien directed his men to possess themselves of the cannon, bulwarks, and guards."

    This stratagem and unexpected seizure of Belfast by the Scotch took the Government by surprise, and induced very extensive correspondence. Ormond noticed it immediately in a letter to England, saying — " We are here threatened with an invasion of the Scots out of the North, who have treacherously surprised Belfast and attempted other English garrisons ;" ^ and the Parliament, perhaps thinking the measure too precipitate, called for an explanation from the Scotch Estates. They returned Monro's account of his reasons and motives for acting as he had done, in which he says —

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

49. Officer Suicides Amid Military Disorder

    near Lisburn · town · Antrim · 1690

    During the disorderly winter quartering of Schomberg's army, Colonel Herbert shot himself in the head in a frenzy, Captain Garrot stabbed himself in the throat, and a French officer in Lisburn threw himself out of a third-story window to his death.

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    " Colonel Herbert in his frenzy shot himself in the head with his pistol, and one Captain Garrot stabbed himself in the throat. A French officer in Lisburn threw himself out of a third story window."^

    1 Dr. Gorges was with Schomberg at this time in Lisburn or Belfast ; at least such may be supposed, as it is said that "the wife of Dr. Gorges was allowed to come from Dublin to join her husband at Lisburn, exchanged for other gentlewomen in the North, with a captain and flag of truce to treat about prisoners."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

50. George Martin's house plundered and his flight to Scotland

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1649

    George Martin, Sovereign of Belfast in 1649, refused to find billets for Parliamentary soldiers under Venables, so his dwelling in the town was plundered and his goods seized; he fled in alarm to Scotland.

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    ^ The antliorities for tliis are the MSS. of Henry Jo}% of Belfast, and those of Samuel M'Skimin, author of the History of Carrickfergus, in the possession of the Rev. Classon Porter, of Larne, by whom they have been kindly lent to me. They are so united that the distinctive portion of each is not readily seen. The statement they contain, however, is substantially that which is in the text, the exact words being — "1649. About Michaelmas this year a battle was fought at Bailer's Fields between the Royal Army and that of the Parliament. The former was defeated, and Venables the Commander then entered the Town. George Martin, who was great-great-grandfather to Henry Joy, Dr. Bruce's contemporary, being determined not to grant Billets, retired to his Country House near the White House, in consequence of which his house in town was plundered. ... On this occasion Venables, who had previously taken the Garrisons of Lisnegarvie and Antrim, also took the Scots' strong garrison of Belfast, with 15 pieces of Ordnance and 12 Barrels of Gunpowder, and 800 Scots were afterwards turned out of the town, whither they had brought their wives and children to settle themselves." The general statement was published by authority in the List of Victories ' obtained hy Cromwell and the Parliament's Forces, 1650, and is quoted by Wright, in his History of Ireland, vol. ii., p. 78. Mr. Martin will come under notice again. There is an obscure tradition that a contest, or skirmish, happened between the parties outside the town, at Buller's Fields, which were at the top of Donegall Street and the present York Street ; and that many years ago, when a cotton mill was being built near this jilace, proof of such was discovered in marks of entrenchments, and the discovery of some balls and other articles.

    K

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 63

51. 1641 Rebellion Panic and Flight from Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1641

    When news of the insurrection reached Belfast, most inhabitants fled the town carrying away their goods to Carrickfergus, with old Lord Chichester himself shipped aboard a vessel, leaving the town largely undefended and in disarray.

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    rested, I arose, calling two horsemen with me, and in the morning, being Monday, went down back again to Great Belfast, where I found most part of the inhabitants fled and flying, and carrying away their goods to Carrickfergus, and the old Lord Chichester shipped aboard in a ship. So I went throughout the town, and blamed them for offering to leave the town, and intreated for some arms, cither by buying or lending, but could not prevail. At last I found in Master Le Scpiire's house seven muskets and

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 48

52. Alternative account: execution of Sir Brian at Carrickfergus

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1575

    According to the History of Carrickfergus and its ancient records, Sir Brian O'Neill was executed in that town in 1575, contradicting the Four Masters' account of his execution in Dublin.

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    This O'lSTeill, whose history has occupied so large a space, was the greatest of the name that ever possessed Belfast. After his arrest he was sent up to Dublin, as Essex states, to be tried " by order of law ; " he was there, with his friends, tried, executed, and quartered, according to the statement of the Four Masters ; but as related in the History of Carrickfcrgus, and as extracted from its ancient and contemporary records, he was executed in that town in 1575;^ he was murdered in 1574 or 1575, another most competent authority avers,^ so that there is thus the same contradiction as to the time and manner of his death as there is with respect to the events of the few weeks which preceded the catastrophe in the Castle of Belfast. His character, as revealed in the State, Papers, cannot be taken as other than that of an able and enterprising man, both in a civil and military capacity, considering the age in which he lived ; nor is there anything to impeach his conduct for trustworthiness in his relations to the Government, if we set aside the accounts of the Earl of Essex of his duplicity and treachery in his latter days. He was ambitious ; he wrongfully encroached on the rights of his relatives ; he may have exhibited, and did exliibit, considerable fickleness and instability of character in his frequent submissions and as sudden outbreaks, as if torn by contending iuflueuces. The two English invaders seem entirely

    1 The variance between the statements of the Four Masters — an anthority accepted as undoubtedly authentic by eminent Irish scholars of the present day — and that of the Earl of Essex, as well as that in the Lives of the Earls of Essex, and the Records of Carrickfergus, with respect to the circumstances attending the capture and death of Brian O'Neill, is so great as to leave an opening for discussion and conflicting opinions on the perplexing story, and to create a strong desire for such farther research as might elicit the actual truth.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 27

53. Attack on Mr. Dix in the Belfast Meeting House

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1657

    In 1657, while sober and peaceable people were gathered in the public Meeting Place in Belfast to hear Mr. Dix, Henry Livingston, preacher at Drumbo, came with a tumultuous assemblage and violently pulled Dix from the pulpit, claiming Presbytery authorization to do so.

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    The religious situation at this period is curiously exemplified in the account of a violent personal attack made upon Mr. Dix, when in the performance of his duty in Belfast, by a Presbyterian minister stationed in a locality immediately adjoining. It shows in strong colours the confidence or presumed power of the Presbyterian body, coinciding with the historical fact of their immunity from any serious disabilities, and, less directly, their influence and extension in the country. Henry Cromwell, the Lord Deputy, Hvriting from " the Phoenix," 22nd September, 1657, states that he has received "a Petition from Mr. "William Dix by which it appears that while divers sober and peaceable people were in the public Meeting Place in Belfast to hear Mr. Dix and to seek the Lord, Mr. Henry Livingston preacher at Drumbo came with a tumultuous assemblage and with reviling pulled Mr. Dix out of the pulpit affirming that they were authorized by the Presbytery to do so, and would do the like again, an evil dangerous example disturbing the public peace and authority of the Government."^ Tlie Lord Deputy requires Sir John Clotworthy, Sir John Skevington, and Major Rawdon

    1 Dr. Reid slightly alludes to this affair, but perhaps did not know the full particulars, brought to light, as in the above notice, from the Cromwcllian Papers in the Record Tower, Dublin Castle. Patrick Adair, in his Narrative, does not mention it at all, and Dr. Reid merely says that "Mr. Livingston had in some unbecoming manner reflected on the principles or character of some of the surrounding sects" — rather a demonstrative mode of reflecting, if Dix, in his complaint to Henry Cromwell, did not exaggerate the account of the usage which he had received. If not, Mr. Livingston's conduct was discreditable, as he was at the very time of this unseemly escapade in receipt of a salary of £100 a-j'ear from the Government whose official he had treated with so much violence. The Presbytery must have condemned Livingston's conduct, as they administered to him a reproof, and sent Mr. Drisdaile and ilr. Hart to Henry Cromwell to give u

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 194

54. Baroness of Offaley's Defence of Geashill Castle, 1642

    Geashill · town · Offaly · 1642

    Essex Digby's mother, the Baroness of Offaley in her own right, became famous in Irish history for her defence of her Castle of Geashill when it was attacked by rebels in 1642.

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    While Mr. Downes was in constrained absence from his charge, or unable to perform its duties with satisfaction to himself, the Government, either from motives of expediency, or — to give them due credit — from a desire to act justly, had chosen an Episcopalian clergyman — Mr. Essex Digby — to reside in the town, wlio must consequently not be omitted from the list of Vicars. From the relationship between him and the Chichester family, the more correct language should possibly be that the rulers for the time being had sanctioned or concurred in his appointment. He was the son of Sir Robert Digby ; the Countess of Donegall (the Lady Mary Digby) was his aunt ; and though Lodge states that " after the reduction of Ireland by the Parliament he was their established minister of Belfast,"^ it is likely the wish of the family was not unthought of in this small appointment. Mr. Digby was of equally high descent on his mother's side, who was no other than the brave lady. Baroness of Offaley in her own right, so famous in Irish history for her defence of her Castle of Geashill when attacked by the rebels in 1642. Her son Essex had been introduced to the clerical profession in very juvenile days, having in 1630 been appointed to the Rectory of Geashill, " with a clause containing a faculty to hold the said promotion to holy orders notwithstanding the continuing his study, until such time as he shall come to riper years to take upon him the said orders."^ His bright prospects from clerical

    1 The following extract from the Senior Lecturer's Book in Trinity College is proof of this : —

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 181

55. Belfast Church Seized and Turned into a Citadel

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1649–1660

    During the Cromwellian period the old Church of Belfast (Chapel of the Ford) was forcibly seized and converted from a place of worship into a military citadel, a desecration from which it was only later restored to the townspeople.

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    There is much obscurity about the history of these ancient churches, and where imperfect data and loose phraseology so greatly prevail it is impossible to make any statement indisputably accurate or free from doubt. The Church of Belfast, however — the old Chapel of the Ford — is alone the object of inquiry here. It was in being in 1306, but its size and appearance in that or many after ages can never now be known. It probably long served but as an insignificant chapel in which the few wayfarers whose occasions brought them to this naked country offered up their liurried prayers when about to cross the currents of "the Lagan water.^ It was often broken down, rex->aired, and subject to all the casualties to which both castles and churches were exposed, but there is no account that it was ever diverted from its sacred us 3 till seized for a period by rude Cromwellian hands and converted into a citadel, as related in a former part of this work. After this desecration, and on its restoration to the townspeople, it was again repaired, but not effectually, as by an Inquisition taken at Antrim 23rd October, 1657, by order of the Protectorate Government, to discover the state of the Irish churches, this report was made regarding the spiritual and temporal condition of that of Belfast —

    ^ The crossing of the Ford, and the dangers which sometimes attended it, are exemiilified in the following letter from Sir Henry Sidney to the Lords of the Council 15th November, 1575 : — " In the Confynes of this Countrie (the Ardes, as I take it) I was offered Skirmishe by Mac Kcill Brian Er laugh at my passage over the Water at Belfast; which I caused to be answered and jjassed over without Losse of Man or Horsse ; yet by Reason of the Tydes extraordinarie Retorne our Horsies swamme and the Footemen in the Passage waded verye dejte. " — Letters and Memorials of State, d-c, written and coUedcd by Sir Henry Sidney, <£-c., by Arthur Collins, vol. i., p. 7G (London, 1746).

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 178

56. Blood nearly caught on landing near Carrickfergus

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim

    After fighting at Rullion Green in Scotland, Colonel Blood returned to Ireland, landing two miles from Carrickfergus, where he was nearly captured by Lord Dungannon before again evading arrest.

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    Colonel Blood's history occupies many pages in the Pinlcerton MSS. They are rather local, as is the following notice in the Rawdon papers, in a letter from Lord Conway from Lisburn to Sir George Rawdon, dated 18th jS'ovember, 1663 (p. 202): — "I set out guards immediately upon all the avenues near this place into the Counties of Down and Antrim where they have since continued night and day, and because the next was* our market day, which gave Blood the opportunity of passing by us. I sent the same instant to Col. Hill to keep a good guard at Hillsborough, and I raised the country that night to keep watch upon all the ways through Kilulta into the county of Antrim." Lord Conway proceeds at some length to express his disappointment and annoyance at not being able to discover where Blood had hid himself ; but at this point the Pinkerton MSS. take up the story, and tell a few words more of his escape on this occasion, though we are left in the dark as to the authority or where obtained. They, however, relate " that Blood passed Lisburn as Lord Conway tells by taking advantage of a market day. ... At Antrim he was almost caught by Lord M* Alexander but he succeeded in making his escape into the country of the Glens where he passed for a Roman Catholic priest." A great deal more is written of his escape from the Glens into Scotland, where he fought at RuUion Green. *' He came back again to Ireland, landing two miles from Carrickfergus where he was nearly caught by Lord Dungannon." These evasions and escapes of the arch-conspirator are curious, and his whole history is entered into in connection with the north of Ireland plot — said to have been concocted by Presbyterians, ministers and others — ending with these lines by Andrew Marvell—

    " When daring Blood, his rent to have regained, Upon the English diadem distrained ; He chose the cassock, surcingle, and gown, The fittest mask for one that robs the crown : But his lay pity underneath prevailed, And while he saved the keeper's life he failed, With the priest's vestments had he but put on The priestly cruelty — the crown had gone."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 347

57. Eviction of 800 Scots from Belfast by Venables

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1649

    When Colonel Venables took Belfast in October 1649, some 800 Scots who had settled there with their wives and children were reportedly turned out of the town. The town had fifteen pieces of ordnance and twelve barrels of gunpowder captured in the action.

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    says, it surrendered to him uj^on articles, the tenor of which is not known. This was the only instance, during the civil wars, of Belfast having sustained a siege, if such it can be called, the town on previous occasions passing from one competitor to another by stratagem rather than by force. A version of the treatment of some of the residents is not favourable to the besiegers. " Venables took Belfast about the middle of October, 1649. There were fifteen pieces of ordnance and twelve barrels of gunpowder in the town ; 800 Scots were turned out of it, whither they had brought their wives and children to inhabit." This was an eviction on too large a scale to be credible. There may have been some transplantation,^ or the story possibly had its foundation in the opposition given to the Parliamentary troops by George Martin, who held the unenviable office of Sovereign of Belfast in 1649, and having refused — being, it must be supposed, of Covenanting tendencies — to use his influence to find accommodation for the soldiers, they pillaged his dwelling, seized his goods and property, and in his alarm he fled to Scotland.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 63

58. General Monroe's Execution at Lisburn

    near Lisburn · town · Antrim · 1798

    General Monroe, a leader executed for his role in the rebellion, faced his trial, sentence, and execution at Lisburn with perfect firmness and composure, as noted by Dr. Haliday in comparing him to condemned figures of the French Revolution.

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    " Toutjours malheur pour quelque chose est hon ; Ovid says or he sais something like it, that Phajton's setting the World in a blaze had its uses, as folks could go to bed without the help of a Candle ; so the Corners of the Tower of our ruinous market house are now ornamenting with the heads of Traitors, & truly some ornament was much needed ; You will think the Times have harden'd my heart — perhaps they have ; it is a general and natural operation of such times to harden hearts ; I see too much of this ; but the fact is, that the only head which is yet stuck up and was a clever one, had enter'd into a partnership with as bad a heart as ever existed — cruel, blood-thirsty, murderous ; so much so, that his own Followers would have kill'd him, had the Court Martial not saved them the trouble. ^ Yet he sustained his trial, sentence, & the execution thereof, with perfect firmness, composure, and quite collected — as did General Monroe at Lisburn ; let us no longer wonder at the calmness with which a Bailli, a Levoisier & the other victims of Marius Robespierre's infernal Tyranny met their fate ; these are things to puzzle a man who strives to solve that inexplicable Eiddle, the human heart. I understand the difiereut Courts Martial act very honourably and dispassionately; had those whose perverse hardness of heart render'd such Courts perhaps necessary acted on such principles and with such temper, we should not now have the painful, the mortifjdng, spectacle of five soldiers adjudging citizens to death instead of the unanimous voice of twelve of his Peers ; whether this old fashioned species of trial shall ever again become the mode in

    ^ Who was the shocking character here described ? The first of the six persons executed in Belfast was William Magill, on the 12th June, 1798 — at least this is the usual record. The only public crime laid to his charge was that he had sworn soldiers from their allegiance.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 316

59. Great Famine of 1801 devastates Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1801

    A severe famine struck Belfast in 1801, worse than later scarcities, with bread and potato prices soaring and strict rationing measures proclaimed by the Lord Lieutenant. The famine persisted until the crops of July 1801 gave hope of relief.

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    1801, gave sanguine expectations tli.it the famine would soon end. We will therefore have no occasion to recur again to these dreary events, but this famine, considering the length of time it continued, was the greatest this town ever had to endure before or since.

    " The military observances kept up in the town for several years after tlie Rebellion are easily discoverable. The enthusiasm was now quite different from what it had been a few years before. The yeomanry were now paramount, both of horse and foot. They paraded on Sundays, and we well recollect the fifes of the body playing down the street on these mornings as if they were recruiting sergeants on a market day."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 381

60. John M'Bride's Persecution and Flight to Scotland

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1713

    John M'Bride, minister of Belfast and a Presbyterian non-juror, was so persecuted for refusing to swear the oath regarding the Pretender that he had to flee to Scotland for safety, later returning to Belfast in September 1713.

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    it required him to swear tluit the Preteuder was not the son of King James the Second, wliich he alleged he could not conscientiously do. For this modified form of non-jurorism, however, he was so much persecuted tluit he had to fly for safety to Scotland ; and so sensitive were the autliorities at any evasion or infringement of their decrees, that when an excited oHicial went to his house in Tielfast to arrest him, and found that he had fled, he thrust his sword, in liis imjxitent anger, througli the baud in his picture.^ There is much about Mr. M'Bride in Presbyterian Loyalty, no doubt perfectly authentic, and his unreserved language occasionally made him a ready subject for Dr. Tisdall's charges against the general body. Besides his attempted arrest in Belfast, he was summoned to Dublin to explain his offence of publishing, as from a Presbyterian source, a sermon in advocacy of the opinion " that the Christian

    1 This contemporary portrait of the Rev. John il' Bride hangs at this moment in the vestry of the First Congregation, Belfast. The orifice made by the sword through the band, though now much filled in with paint and varnish, is still quite discoverable. It is the portrait of a good-humoured, genial man, entirely destitute — so far as pictures can tell us — of all evil thoughts to king, country, or fellow-creature.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 197