Name: A history of the town of Belfast : from the earliest times to the close of the eighteenth century ; with maps and illustrations
Author: George Benn (1801–1882)

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.

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" 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

In 1574, a feast was held in Belfast that ended in massacre. Peace, sociality, and friendship had been established between Brian, the son of Felim Bacagh O'Neill, and 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. At the end of that time, as they were agreeably drinking and making merry, Brian, his brother, and his wife were seized by the Earl. 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 Annals of the Four Masters call it, in their words, "this wicked and treacherous murder of the Lord of the race of Hugh Boy O'Neill," the head and 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 event occurred within the Castle of Belfast. Essex's report spoke of resistance being offered by his men lodged in the town, suggesting there was some kind of huts or shelter near the Castle. Sir Brian's men occupied the town.

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.

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" 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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, 1574. Essex came here with an army, and what happened in the castle that night is written in his own letter. He had been told, before he ever arrived, that Brian McPhelimy was dealing secretly with Tirone, planning to join in rebellion. So Essex sent word ahead to Captain Malby, who was already at Carrickfergus, to keep a close watch on the man. Malby did so without raising suspicion, and he met Essex a mile from Belfast, bringing Sir Brian, Rory Oge, and others with him. They welcomed Essex into the country in what he called their dissembling manner, and he accepted it, pleased enough. They marched together to the camp near Belfast, and Sir Brian's wife came out to greet him too, which Essex later said was done to blind him. He was not long rested before more people of credit came to him with further word of the treachery intended. He weighed what he knew of Sir Brian's former revolt against these fresh warnings, and he told all the captains in the camp what he knew of Bryan's lewd practices. With their advice and consent he gave order that evening to lay hold on Sir Brian within the Castle of Belfast, where he lay. Some resistance was offered by his men lodged in the town, and in that fight about 115 of them were slain. Sir Brian and his wife, Rory Oge, and one Brian McEvelin were taken prisoner. A man called Guilduffe of Guilmyrre, who had been Sir Brian's own prisoner and was in handcuffs beside him, was also saved. After this was done, the low water served at Belfast, and Essex put over certain horsemen to seize cattle on the Ards side, and others toward the Lough side. They returned the next day with 3000 head of cattle and certain stud mares, of which he intended to send six choice ones as a present.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

This is High Street, where Henry Joy M'Cracken was buried in the churchyard after his execution in 1798. M'Cracken was the best known and most regretted of the insurgents executed in Belfast. He had been commander at the Battle of Antrim. His printed manifesto, proclaiming the 6th of June, 1798, as the "First year of Liberty," in weak imitation of the French model, was extensively circulated. When he was 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. A lengthy narrative of his career and death appears in the History of the United Irishmen, procured, it is said, from the near and affectionate relative who clung to him to the last. She was one of the very last who could speak from personal knowledge and recollection of the history of 1798 in Belfast, and she herself died only a few years ago. M'Cracken ended his life, like the others, at the Market House, and 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.

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.

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" 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.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Carrickfergus, in April 1778, an American privateer named Paul Jones brought his armed ship into Belfast Lough and fought a British sloop of war. The story begins with the American colonies in revolt. America and France had united against England, and the war of privateers followed. Jones appeared in Belfast Lough in April 1778. A ship called the Draper was lying in Garmoyle with a valuable cargo of linen cloth, and it was feared the privateer meant to seize her. But Jones was above such petty matters when a king's ship was in sight. The Drake, a sloop of war, was lying opposite Carrickfergus. Jones brought his ship into the Lough intending to capture the Drake by surprise, but the weather was unfavourable and he could not make the attempt at that time. Not one for a moment's inaction, he crossed the channel to Whitehaven, spiked the guns there, and burned several vessels. Then he sailed to Kirkcudbright, where he was born, and plundered the house of Lord Selkirk. Early on the morning of the 24th of April he appeared again in Belfast Lough to try his fortune with the Drake. He was successful. The two ships, nearly equal in force, engaged that same day. After a short action, the Ranger, which was the name of Jones's ship, overpowered and captured her opponent.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Belfast, the town carries an old grief from April 1708. The Castle of Belfast burnt, and three of Lady Donegall's daughters, all children, perished in the flames. She had six daughters in all. Their mother was the second wife of Lord Donegall, who had himself been killed in his fortieth year, so the children were very young. No contemporary document gives a full account of the fire. Molyneux, who visited the town shortly after, merely alluded to it in connection with the destruction of Lisburn by fire, the effects of which he had just witnessed. Sir Richard Cox, in a letter to Sir Robert Southwell dated April 27, 1708, wrote among the news of the day: "Lady Donegal's House at Belfast is burn'd, and two or three of her daughters in it." Tradition tells what the records do not. The fire was caused by the carelessness of a servant who placed a large wood fire in a room recently washed, and left it untended. Sailors were the first to discover the blaze. A servant called Catherine Douglas lost her life. Others escaped with difficulty. Tradition also says that a daughter of Parson Berkeley was burnt to death in the Castle, a detail connected to the family of George Berkeley, Bishop of Cloyne, whose grandfather held the office of Collector of Belfast.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, in 1770, saw a siege that nearly cost the town its peace. A man charged with maiming cattle belonging to Mr Gregg was seized in Belfast by Waddell Cunningham and lodged in the Barrack, where about 40 soldiers stood guard. His capture stirred the country. On the morning of the 23rd, men calling themselves Hearts of Steel gathered at Templepatrick, warned worshippers out of the Meeting House, and gathered others as they went. Armed with guns, pistols, swords, and ruder weapons, they marched on Belfast. Their rendezvous was the Stag's Head on the Shore Road, where their numbers reached about 1200 men, chiefly from Templepatrick, Doagh, Ballyclare, and Carnmoney. An old soldier called Meathes or Matthews formed them into order, then gave them the slip as they entered the town. A man named Crawford rode in front, carrying iron crowbars rolled up in hay ropes for forcing gates and doors. Stewart Banks, the Sovereign, and about 25 gentlemen took refuge in the Barrack and closed the gate. The Steel Men surrounded it and sent in a written message demanding the release of David Douglas. Banks refused outright. They fired many shots at the gate and over the wall, but to no effect. A party then broke into Waddell Cunningham's house and began destroying the furniture. Dr Haliday, an eminent physician of Belfast, driven by compassion and fearing the town itself might be destroyed, mingled with the crowd at Cunningham's house. He expostulated with them in vain. They took him prisoner and swore him to go at once to the Barrack and secure the release of the prisoner, or, failing that, to return and surrender himself as a hostage. The Doctor had just reached the Barrack on this embassy, passing

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

The road passes through the parish of Shankill, where one of the darkest acts in Ulster's Norman history took place. William De Burgo, Earl of Ulster, was young, his possessions great in the west of Ireland, but his home was chiefly in Ulster, most likely at Carrickfergus. He had fallen into strife with John De Logan, one of his own blood and nation, and dissensions had sprung up with his near relations. On Sunday the 6th of June 1333, he was riding towards Carrickfergus, near the Fords. Robert Fitzrichard Mandeville gave him the first wound, and others, his own servants, joined in. He was killed in revenge for his maltreatment of a kinsman. A sword-stroke cleft his skull while he was saying his morning prayers. The annalist Grace says he was slain by his own relations, between the camp at Shankill and Carrickfergus. Another annalist places the event between Carrickfergus and Newtown, pointing to the same spot, the ford across the Lagan, the site of the future Belfast.

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.

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^ 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

As the companion tells it

A public execution site, Castle Place. In September 1816, two men convicted of the gunpowder attack on Mr. Johnston's cotton manufacturing premises were hanged. The crime arose from trade or wages disputes, Mr. Johnston having been a cotton manufacturer. To make the sentence and punishment more memorable, Castle Place was chosen as the site, because it was in the very centre of the town, central, spacious, and convenient for great groups of spectators. The event caused great excitement, and was still frequently referred to sixty years later, as one of the most disastrous occurrences in the town in modern days.

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.

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' 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

As the companion tells it

As the road takes you through Belfast, there is a story from 1597 that belongs to this city. An English ensign named Pullen had charge of Belfast Castle. Under cover of his office he robbed the people round about him, taking their goods to maintain his drunkenness. While he lay drinking at Knockfergus, a warning came from Shane M'Bryan to look to his charge. Pullen would not leave his wine to serve the queen. His own man, John Aloylon, gave the castle to the enemy on the 18th of June. All the Englishmen in the ward were hanged, and their throats cut, and their bowels cut out of their bellies by Shane M'Bryan. Shane was the eldest son of Sir Brian M'Phelim O'Neill. The castle was retaken the next day by Captain Thornton, with the queen's ship and soldiers. The new commanders, by their preying on the country, had put all in rebellion.

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.

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" 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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, in 1756, was a town without order or government. George Macartney, writing on behalf of the Corporation and principal inhabitants, sent an express memorial to the Lords Justices pleading for a swift answer. He wrote that all order and government had come to an end. A mob had taken control. They had seized meal cargoes and threatened the magistrates themselves. Macartney said that when he was in the meal cellar, he was forced to quit it, and several of the mob swore they would drown him. The mob declared 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. Macartney believed their want would soon come, for they had been doing nothing but roving about all week, and from their behaviour he believed they would not hesitate to put their threats into execution. But then, he said, there would be no meal to buy. The country had stopped bringing in any, and none would import for the same reason. A cargo from an accidental Scotch ship, about 60 tons, was bought by eight gentlemen to be sold at 13 shillings the hundred, at a loss, and yet it was thought the mob would possess themselves of it. They were already selling Henderson's meal at 9 shillings and a penny. Henderson's would be done that day, and then none but the Scotch cargo would be left. Macartney closed, you see things are in a bad situation.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

In 1798, Belfast saw a grim spectacle. Dr. Haliday wrote letters describing the corners of the ruinous market house tower being ornamented with the heads of executed traitors. He remarked that "some ornament was much needed." He noted that only three heads were displayed at first, with hope expressed for a fourth. Haliday acknowledged that the times had hardened his heart, and called it a general and natural operation of such times. He had seen too much of it. The head of a clever man was among those stuck up, Haliday said, but he had entered into partnership with as bad a heart as ever existed, cruel, blood-thirsty, and murderous. His own followers would have killed him had the Court Martial not saved them the trouble. Yet this man sustained his trial, his sentence, and his execution with perfect firmness and composure. Haliday compared his calmness to General Monroe at Lisburn, and to the victims of Robespierre's tyranny in France. He called the human heart an inexplicable riddle. He understood the various Courts Martial to act very honourably and dispassionately. But he noted the painful spectacle of five soldiers adjudging citizens to death, rather than the unanimous voice of twelve peers. The first of six persons executed in Belfast was William Magill, on the 12th of June, 1798. The only public crime laid to his charge was that he had sworn soldiers from their allegiance.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Benburb, in May 1646, a great battle was fought. The English party in Belfast and elsewhere in the North of Ireland had reason enough to distrust Monro, who had deprived them of Belfast itself. Yet they still considered it expedient to act with him against the common enemy, though there could not have been any very cordial union between them. Together they marched against Owen Roe O'Neill, and together they were signally defeated by the Irish commander. O'Neill had been dissatisfied with the peace and had united his forces. This was one of the major military events of the rebellion period, a striking victory for the Irish and a heavy blow to the combined English and Scottish forces in Ulster.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Near here, in 1770, the Hearts of Steel gathered and marched on Belfast to free a prisoner. David Douglas had been charged with aiding in the houghing of cattle belonging to Mr. Gregg. He was taken prisoner by Waddell Cunningham and lodged in the Barrack, where about 40 soldiers stood guard, a rescue being apprehended if he had been sent direct to prison. On the morning of the 23rd, an assembly of persons, avowedly Hearts of Steel, met at Templepatrick. They proceeded to the Meeting House and warned the people out, many of whom obeyed and helped gather others. The entire body marched toward Belfast, armed with guns, pistols, swords, and ruder weapons. The grand rendezvous was at a house on the Shore Road called the Stag's Head, where their number was about 1200 men, chiefly from here, Doagh, Ballyclare, and Carnmoney. They were formed into regular order by an old soldier called Meathes or Matthews, who afterwards gave them the slip on entering Belfast. A man named Crawford rode in front, carrying iron crowbars rolled in hay ropes for forcing open gates or doors. On their approach, Stewart Banks the Sovereign and about 25 other gentlemen took refuge in the Barrack and closed the gate. The Steel Men surrounded it and sent in a written message demanding the release of David Douglas. Banks gave a direct refusal. They fired many shots at the gate and over the wall. Failing of effect, a party went to the house of Waddell Cunningham, broke it open, and were destroying the furniture when Dr. Haliday, an eminent physician of Belfast, dreading the town might be destroyed, mingled with the crowd. He expostulated in vain and was taken prisoner and sworn to go to the Barrack and procure the prisoner's release, or return and surrender himself as hostage.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Belfast, this city carries a memory from the winter of 1689 into 1690. Schomberg's army had suffered disastrously near Dundalk, and the sick and invalid soldiers were brought here, to what was called the Great Hospital of Belfast. Dr. Lawrence was sent from the camp by the general to take charge of it. Thomas Pottinger, in a petition, left it to be understood that the hospital came about through his own efforts. Whatever its origins, the outcome was terrible. From the 1st of November to the 1st of May, 3,762 men died within its walls. The calamity could not be contained. The town itself had not yet recovered from its earlier troubles, and its returning inhabitants found death all around them. Pottinger said he had 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 figures may go beyond the truth, but there is no doubt that this first English army was greatly weakened by disease alone, according to some accounts to the extent of nearly one-half of its entire number. The army had to be recruited from England and elsewhere with fresh levies brought in from time to time. Belfast became the principal place for the troops, while Lisburn was chosen for Schomberg's headquarters. The remains of the broken army and the new arrivals were quartered through the winter and the early months of 1690, to recruit their strength and prepare for the summer, when William himself was expected to lead them in person.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

The road passes near Belfast, where a newspaper once gave voice to the United Irishmen. The Northern Star began in January 1792, originated by United Irishmen and serving as the organ of their opinions and the advocate of their claims. 12 proprietors backed it, all Belfast men, all Presbyterians. Samuel Neilson was the chief and largest proprietor, holding 13 shares out of 40 at 50 pounds each, in a company whose total stock stood at 2000 pounds. Neilson served as manager and editor, with many contributors, and the principles the paper advocated were those of the ablest political writers in the country. The printer and proprietors were prosecuted in 1792, but acquitted. They faced charges again in 1794. The printer, Rabb, was found guilty, while the proprietors were acquitted. In 1796 the office was taken by Government authority. Persons connected with the paper were seized, sent to Dublin, and kept in prison for many months. The final suppression came in 1797. A party of Monaghan Militia marched from the barracks and broke into the office. A note in handwriting on the paper in the Linen Hall Library records what happened. "This was the last No. published, as a mob of Militia next day with non-commissioned officers broke into the office and destroyed forms." They destroyed the printing forms, letters, and equipment, throwing them into the street. The Northern Star was finished.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Saintfield is a town you pass through on this road, and in 1798 it was the scene of one of the worst outrages of that period. Twelve people were confined in a house from which escape was rendered impossible, and then burnt to death. The trial took place at Downpatrick, where sixteen men were charged with the crime. A writer of the time called it a deed of as atrocious and deep a dye as ever stained the page of a book or newspaper. Twelve of the accused were found guilty. Three of those twelve were executed. This became known as the famous Saintfield case. The same writer noted that the frightful outrage did not occur in or very near Belfast, but was a few miles distant. He was writing about Belfast and its surrounding region, and contrasted the Saintfield atrocity with the lesser matters dealt with in Belfast itself, where prisoners were sent to Fort George and a court-martial at the Donegall Arms tried people for concealing arms. The Yeomanry Cavalry and the Yeomanry Infantry kept the peace in the town. The writer remarked that part of Ireland had once been considered a model to the rest of the kingdom for its religious and moral principles, and that the change in some districts called for serious reflection.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, in 1770, was the scene of a dreadful riot. An immense multitude, people from the country intermixed with those of the town, gathered at the Barrack. When the gate was thrown open, the military fired upon the assailants. Five were killed and nine wounded. It was Dr. Haliday's humane interference that prevented further firing. In the meantime, another party had been destroying the house of Mr. Cunningham. They grew impatient at the Doctor's delay, believing he had deceived them, and set the house on fire, endangering the safety of the town. Under the same deception they threatened to destroy Dr. Haliday's own house, and fired shots into that of Mr. 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. This was done about one o'clock in the morning, on which they retired and the fire was extinguished. Mr. Trotter, writing to a friend, used 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."

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Carrickfergus, the French commander Thurot entered Belfast Bay on the 21st of February 1760 with his force reduced to 600 men. He wanted to bypass the ruinous fort and strike directly at wealthy, undefended Belfast. But in a council of war, Monsieur Flobert, general of the embarcation, argued against leaving a strong place behind them. His view prevailed. The defense of the fort, weak as it was, gave time for the country to be alarmed and the militia to assemble.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Downpatrick is the town where Thomas Russell was tried and condemned in October 1803. Russell had set out to renew rebellion in the North that year. His movements took place chiefly in County Down, where he appeared in the uniform of a French general, showing the costume to a score or two of country people. It was as vain as it was ludicrous. He was arrested in September, sent first to Dublin, and afterwards transmitted to Downpatrick for trial. On the 19th of October his trial and condemnation occurred. The only Belfast men who appeared at the trial were Sir James Bristow and Mr. Skinner, both on the jury. Mr. Joy, the future Chief Baron, was chief counsel for the defence. This ended Thomas Russell, so well and so long known, and in a certain degree respected, in Belfast. His fellow conspirator Emmet had in the meantime been also executed in Dublin. Russell had proclaimed himself General-in-chief of the Northern Division. His trial ended his long association with Belfast.

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.

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"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

As the companion tells it

In 1773, John Wesley came to Belfast and learned the real cause of the late insurrections in this neighbourhood. Lord Donegall owned almost the whole country. He came to give his tenants new leases. But when the tenants arrived, they found two merchants of the town had taken their farms over their heads. Multitudes of them, with their wives and children, were turned out to what Wesley called the wide world. He wrote that their lives were now bitter to them, and it was no wonder they flew out as they did. It was rather a wonder, he said, that they did not go much farther. He asked who would have been most in fault: those without home, without money, without food for themselves and their families, or those who drove them to this extremity. His language was repeated often and expanded into the assertion that thousands of families were driven out to make way for Catholic tenants who proposed to give higher rents. Arthur Young, who was in the country at the same period and had a better acquaintance with land questions, did not write in the same tone as Wesley, but rather palliated Lord Donegall's conduct. A committee of the House of Commons concluded the rents demanded were not extravagant. Still, Lord Donegall became unpopular with many well-informed persons for his conduct, and the feeling long continued.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Belfast in 1770. A man called David Douglas, charged with aiding in the maiming of cattle belonging to Mr. Gregg, was taken prisoner in Belfast by Waddell Cunningham and lodged in the Barrack, where about 40 soldiers were stationed, a rescue being feared if he had been sent direct to prison. His capture stirred no little commotion, and it was resolved that his liberation should be effected. On the morning of the 23rd, an assembly of persons, avowedly Hearts of Steel, met at Templepatrick for this purpose. They proceeded to the Meeting House there and warned the people out, many of whom obeyed and helped gather others. The whole body then marched towards Belfast, armed with guns, pistols, swords, and ruder weapons. The grand rendezvous was held at a house on the Shore road called the Stag's Head, where their number was found to be about 1200 men, chiefly from Templepatrick, Doagh, Ballyclare, and Carnmoney. An old soldier called Meathes or Matthews formed them into regular order, but gave them the slip on entering Belfast. A man named Crawford rode in front, carrying iron crowbars rolled up in hay ropes for forcing gates or doors. Stewart Banks, the Sovereign, and about 25 other gentlemen took refuge in the Barrack and closed the gate. The Steel Men surrounded the Barrack and sent in a written message demanding the release of David Douglas. Banks gave a direct refusal. They fired many shots at the gate and over the wall, but failed of the desired effect. A party then proceeded to the house of Waddell Cunningham, broke it open, and were destroying the furniture when Dr. Haliday, an eminent physician of Belfast, mingled with the crowd. He expostulated with them in vain. They took him prisoner and swore him to go to the Barrack and procure the release of Douglas, or, failing that, to return and surrender himself as a hostage. The Doctor had just reached the Barrack on this embassy.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in 1760, the Castle of Carrickfergus made a stand against a French invasion. The castle was wretched, its whole defence no more than a half-ruined wall and a few undisciplined recruits. It could not hold for long, yet it was manfully protracted until every round of ammunition was consumed. That bought the country time to be alarmed. The country was not alarmed in vain. The national spirit was instantly roused. From every neighbouring county, great bodies of manufacturers and peasants hastily marched with whatever arms they could collect, and within 24 hours Belfast was secured from insult. The Lieutenant of the County of Armagh thought it his duty to repair to the invaded country. He waited on the Duke of Bedford to learn his commands, and was surprised and scandalized by the Duke's declaration that he would meet him there. Arrived at Belfast, he saw the town crowded with defenders. The peasantry had thronged to its defence, many of them his own tenantry. They were drawn up in regular bodies, each with its chosen officers. A few had old firelocks, but the greater number carried the Loughhaber Ax, a scythe fixed to the end of a long pole, a desperate weapon they seemed determined to make a desperate use of. Thousands assembled in a small circuit, yet the town was undisturbed by tumult, riot, or even drunkenness. On the day of his arrival the French troops had re-embarked. When he came to the castle only the ships were to be seen, waiting for a favourable wind. Flobert and about 20 of his men were left behind wounded, and his care to provide them with proper lodgings and assistance was not unnecessary. The French commander was wounded and a prisoner. The event of this trifling invasion was happy and glorious. By the spirit of the people the French had been prevented from making any mischievous progress.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

The parish of Island Magee lies along this stretch of road. In 1711 a letter was written from Belfast by William Tisdall, dated the 4th of April, defending what had happened here in the Islandmagee witches case. The story of those witches was printed in Belfast in 1822, and at the end of it appears Tisdall's letter. He was a man distinguished in scholarship and preaching, yet the letter is called a most weak production. Tisdall could not see why a real witch might not have permission to personate a real saint, as well as the devil had been permitted to personate an angel of light. He argued that a person in contract with the devil might be guilty of the worst hypocrisy, giving her apostasy a deeper dye. This was his answer to Judge Upton, whose opinion held that real witches in compact with the devil could hardly have been such regular attenders on public worship. Tisdall sided entirely with the judges who convicted the accused. He argued on the belief in the existence of witches, their power and practices, with as much apparent faith as on any generally acknowledged theological question.

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.

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" 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

As the companion tells it

In Belfast, in 1756, George Macartney wrote to the Lords Justices on behalf of the Corporation and the principal inhabitants of the town. He said all order and government there were at an end. He had been in the meal cellar the day before and was forced to quit it, and he was informed that several of the rioters swore they would drown him. The mob declared they would not want for money, for as long as they knew of a man that had a penny they would have a halfpenny of it. Macartney believed their want would soon come, because they had been doing nothing but roving about all week, and from their behaviour he believed they would not hesitate to carry out their threats. But then there would be no meal to buy. The country had stopped bringing any in, and none would import for the same reason. A Scotch ship had arrived by accident with about 60 tons, and eight gentlemen bought the cargo to sell at 13 shillings the hundred, taking a loss. Even so, it was thought the mob would possess themselves of it, as they were doing with Henderson's meal, selling it at 9 shillings and a penny. Henderson's supply would be done that day, and then none but the Scotch cargo would be left. Macartney signed off: you see things are in a bad situation.

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.

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"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

As the companion tells it

The road takes you through Belfast. In 1597, Sir John Chichester set out to recapture Belfast Castle. The castle stood on the river, where the sea ebbed and flowed, and boats could land within a butt shot of its walls. Chichester made its recovery one of his first works. On the 11th of July, he transported about 100 men there by boat by sea. Their coming was, in his own words,

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

This is North Street, where Thomas M'Cabe, a Belfast watchmaker and silversmith, had all his windows smashed in the military riot of 1793, with a single pane alone surviving. M'Cabe was one of the most useful inhabitants of the town, honourably united with others in founding the cotton manufacture in Belfast, and frequently mentioned in Tone's Journal in terms of great praise for his integrity and unselfish patriotism. In 1786, when a meeting was held to favour bringing the slave trade into Belfast, M'Cabe stood against it with words that diverted that traffic from the town forever: “May God wither the hand and consign the name to eternal infamy of him who first signs that document.” Yet this worthy man had every window broken in the riot, only one pane left intact. Soon after, the town was illuminated for the King's birthday, in celebration of the concession of the elective franchise to the Roman Catholics. M'Cabe answered with cutting irony. He filled that solitary pane with candles and left all the others broken and ruined as the wreckers had left them. He also placed over his door the words “Thomas M'Cabe, an Irish Slave, Dealer in Gold and Silver.” Mr. Tone, greatly tickled by the term, adopted it as his political sobriquet. His residence was at the foot of North Street or in one of the small houses where the Commercial Buildings now stand, where several other leading characters of the town also dwelt. His son, Putnam M'Cabe, took an active part in the rebellion, serving as body guard to Lord Edward Fitzgerald.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

This is Glenarm, in the Glens of Antrim. In 1663 a man called Colonel Blood passed through this country, fleeing capture. Lord Conway, writing from Lisburn on the 18th of November 1663, described how he set guards on all the avenues near that place into the counties of Down and Antrim, keeping them there night and day. He sent to Colonel Hill to keep a good guard at Hillsborough, and raised the country that night to keep watch upon all the ways through Kilulta into the county of Antrim. But it was market day, and Blood took advantage of the crowds to pass by them. Conway expressed his disappointment and annoyance at not being able to discover where Blood had hidden himself. At Antrim, Blood was almost caught by Lord Mount Alexander, but he succeeded in making his escape into the country of the Glens, where he passed for a Roman Catholic priest. From the Glens he escaped into Scotland, where he fought at Rullion Green. He came back again to Ireland, landing two miles from Carrickfergus, where he was nearly caught by Lord Dungannon. His whole history is connected with the north of Ireland plot, said to have been concocted by Presbyterians, ministers and others. Andrew Marvell wrote of him: "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."

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

As the road brings you near Belfast, this is a town that in 1689 and 1690 saw death walk its streets. Schomberg's army had come, and a hospital was set up in Belfast, with Dr. Lawrence sent from the camp to lead it. Thomas Pottinger later claimed the establishment was his own doing. Yet the mortality was staggering. From the 1st of November to the 1st of May following, 3762 men died within that hospital. The calamity could not be contained. The town itself, still unsettled as its inhabitants returned, was stricken. A contemporary witness recorded that he had sometimes stood upon the street of Belfast and seen, in his words, "ten or a dozen corpses of the townspeople go by in little more than half-an-hour." These figures may exceed the truth, but there is no doubt the first English army was greatly weakened by disease alone, losing nearly one-half of its entire number according to some accounts. Fresh levies had to be brought from England and elsewhere. Belfast became the principal place for the troops, while Lisburn was chosen for Schomberg's headquarters. The remains of the broken army and the new arrivals were quartered through the winter and the early months of 1690, to recruit their strength and prepare for the summer, when William would lead them himself.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Carrickfergus, on the bare sea-shore, stood the Three Sisters, three tall columns with a cross-beam where the rope was attached. In 1810, Antonio de Silva was brought there to be hanged. By his own particular desire, he was dressed in a white surplice, and two Roman Catholic priests accompanied him. Through Mr. Redfern of Belfast, who spoke his language and had been his interpreter at the trial, de Silva denied his guilt. The same year brought another example of death and the grave, quite peculiar and original. An honest Belfast man left directions to his executors. He asked that as little as possible be spent on his funeral, his firm opinion being that what was so spent was "nothing but a Robbery on the remaining part of the Family." He wanted a coffin of plain deal, painted either black or oak colour, 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 he called utterly vain and useless. He told his executors to exercise their discretion in providing a necessary refreshment for his particular friends and the bearers of his bier, as his house would afford. He wished to be buried in the Poor House Grave Yard, the nearest, though more expensive, because the money was applied to charitable purposes.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, in County Antrim, was touched by the rebellion of 1798, though no battle was fought within it. June of that year was the month some called the start of the war, while others, seeing the weakened ranks and the disunited party, called it the month the bubble burst. The Sunday before the actual outbreak is still remembered as Pike Sunday, when weapons were sharpened for what was coming. Belfast itself saw no bloodshed, but Antrim and Ballynahinch, neither very distant, were the centres of two of the most serious struggles in the north of Ireland that year. The roar of the battle at Ballynahinch was distinctly heard in Belfast during its progress, it is said. All business was suspended, the avenues to the town were guarded, and military law prevailed. When the warfare ended, a reckoning was made of those undoubtedly guilty. Only six could be capitally convicted, whether resident in the town or brought into it, and all six suffered death in the streets of Belfast. The executions took place at the old Market House. One of the prisoners was hanged on a lamp-post near or opposite the Market House, and the heads of the culprits are generally described as having been put on poles to blacken in the sun.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Belfast saw a great commotion in 1770 and 1771, set off by a body called the Hearts of Steel. They were an agrarian combination, and the reason a town was caught up in their doings comes down to where the trouble started. It was on the Donegall estates adjoining Belfast that the association had its beginning. The owner of the town and some merchants in it drew the anger of the agricultural body in the neighbourhood for dealing with lands the farmers occupied, to their supposed injury and loss. The old leases granted by the Donegall family at the start of the century had fallen. The common rent of arable land had been about 2s. 6d. an acre. Now, after so great a lapse of time, and with circumstances leading to an increased value of produce, it was thought that eight shillings an acre for land not far from Belfast would not be unreasonable. Whether fines were proposed besides the increased rent can no longer be determined. An eminent historian uses these words on the subject: "The Tenants, all Protestants, offered 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." That is how merchants in Belfast came to be at the centre of an agrarian rising, and how the unrest spread through Antrim and neighbouring counties.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, close to Blaris, militiamen were shot on the moor in 1797. Many of their number had joined the United Irishmen. After a trial by court-martial, four were shot at Blaris Moor, and the rest were pardoned. Their comrades were angry. The men, irritated at their position, had a short paper written, almost exculpatory of their own conduct and that of their dead comrades, throwing the blame on the rebellious or disaffected place where they were stationed. They wanted it printed in the Northern Star. The editor refused, thinking it carried an untrue imputation on the character of the town. The men were not satisfied, and they wreaked their vengeance on the Star's office. These were among the last days of the Northern Star. On the 3rd of February, 1797, Colonel Barber, a King's messenger, arrived with a military guard and took possession of the office. The proprietors printed a small notice saying 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." They told their numerous friends and readers they were sincerely sorry, and said that so soon as the restraint of Government permitted them to resume, the public might rely on being regularly supplied on the accustomed plan.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

The Milewater runs through this part of Antrim, and in 1760 it became a line of defence for Belfast. The French had taken Carrickfergus. The day after, they sent a peremptory demand to the people of Belfast: send wine, brandy, beer, bread, and cattle, or both Carrickfergus and Belfast would be burned at once. Two lighters were loaded with provisions, but the weather was stormy and only one sailed. Even that one was stopped by a tender in the bay. The French repeated their threats, so eight or ten carts were sent out with food. Only two reached Carrickfergus. The detained lighter was permitted to pass on. The other carts were seized by townsmen, encouraged by crowds of volunteers and militia hurrying in to fight. A strong barricade was erected at the Milewater, built with picks, shovels, hatchets, and handsaws lent by the townspeople. More than 5000 volunteers assembled for the town's defence. The safety of Belfast was soon assured. The loss Belfast sustained, made up of charges for the volunteers, payment for provisions, and other expenses, amounted to £1365, which the Government repaid. The French commander Thurot indignantly denied that he had ever threatened, or intended to.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

In 1663, Lisburn was where Colonel Blood slipped through a manhunt. Lord Conway, writing from here to Sir George Rawdon on the 18th of November 1663, said he had set guards immediately on all the avenues near the town into the counties of Down and Antrim. They kept watch night and day. But the next day was market day, and that gave Blood the opportunity of passing through. Conway had also sent word the same instant to Colonel Hill to keep a good guard at Hillsborough, and he had raised the country that night to keep watch on all the ways through Kilulta into County Antrim. None of it was enough. Conway wrote at length of his disappointment and annoyance at not being able to discover where Blood had hidden himself. The story goes on. At Antrim, Blood 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. He made his way into Scotland, where he fought at Rullion Green. He came back to Ireland, landing two miles from Carrickfergus, where Lord Dungannon nearly caught him. Andrew Marvell wrote of him: "He chose the cassock, surcingle, and gown, the fittest mask for one that robs the crown."

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Around Comber, in the years after 1660, Presbyterians gathered in secret to hear their minister preach. Gilbert Kennedy preached in the Glens near the town, in the starlight. Soldiers were quartered in many of the houses, so the people had to slip out of their homes 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 under these conditions. In 1670, Bishop Leslie paid a visit to Boyle, Bishop of Down, and urged him to use his power. Boyle did so presently and in a vigorous manner, summoning 12 of the ministers of Down to his Court and proceeding with excommunication against them. Among these were Gilbert Kennedy and Michael Bruce. Bruce 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 the early Presbyterian settlers in Ulster faced 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.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Blackwater, in 1642, rebel forces made a stand at a ford, throwing up a breast-work to hold it. This was the same ground where Tyrone once defeated Bagenal. About a mile from Charlemont, the defenders waited behind their earthwork. Their best men, and most of them gentlemen, defended it gallantly, until the horse plunged through a deep ford and charged them within the work. There was a way to enter above the breast-work, and the cavalry found it. Every man of the 20 or 30 was slain, and no hurt on our side, save that Major Crawford and Captain Rawden's horses were shot in the pursuit of those that fled. The fleeing rebels came very near Sir Phelomy himself. If they had known it, he would not have escaped. He fled towards Dungannon with not above 2 or 3 in his company. He could not retire unto Charlemont, because some of their men were gone between him and the place. Presently after, about 12 of the clock, they marched on towards Charlemont. It was slow going, for the rebels had broken a causeway and bridge that took a long time to mend. On arrival near the town, the commander of the fore troop, by order of Lord Montgomery, summoned the rebels to deliver up the town and castle, otherwise to expect no quarter for man, woman, or child. They alleged they kept it for the King, and desired time till the next day, being Thursday at one of the clock. This was denied, for Lord Montgomery believed that in that time they expected aid or would provision the castle from the town.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Near the village of Charlemont, in 1642, English and Scotch forces under Lord Montgomerie came against a town and castle held by rebels. The rebels' best men, most of them gentlemen, had defended their works gallantly until horse plunged through a deep ford and charged them within the work. Twenty or thirty were slain, and no hurt on the attackers' side, save that Major Crawford and Captain Rawden's horses were shot in the pursuit. Sir Phelomy fled toward Dungannon with not above two or three in his company, for some of the attackers' men had gone between him and the place. About twelve o'clock they marched on toward the town, which was long a-doing because of a causeway and bridge the rebels had broken. At their arrival, the commander by order of Lord Montgomerie summoned the rebels to deliver up the town and castle, otherwise to expect no quarter for man, woman, or child. They alleged they kept it for the King, and desired time till the next day, Thursday at one o'clock. This was denied, Lord Montgomerie believing that in that time they expected aid or would provision the castle out of the town. The attackers could not hold a long siege, being unprovided of victuals and ammunition. It was resolved to fall upon the trenches that night. Long faggots were made, and in the twilight four parties were sent out, who filled the trenches and assaulted the town in four places, and got over without difficulty. The most part of the rebels had quit the trenches, fired the town, and run into the castle. The men laid in the trenches and about the castle all night, and by day shot at the windows without great harm on either side.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in the castle at Carrickfergus, Sir Arthur Chichester held Con O'Neill prisoner in 1601. Chichester had been operating on the borders of Tyrone when Con O'Neill revolted, bringing 350 Bonnaghts with him, led by Vstone MacDonnell, a Scot and nephew to Randall. Chichester's efforts against them met with success. He charged their camp during the fastnage where they lay, and Vstone the Scot and diverse others were slain. Con O'Neill was taken prisoner and brought to the Queen's castle. Chichester called the country well quit of such dangerous enemies. They had plotted a strong party with Brian McCarte, and all were to be assisted upon short warnings from Tyrone. The Scot had gotten into the Iffren, where he wrote himself lord, the country wholly revolting with him. Loose and idle men from his two uncles of the Route and Glens resorted to him. Chichester said he would have been a troublesome enemy had God not overthrown his treacherous designs. Chichester could accuse his uncles of no greater fault than temporising, as they had given no assistance to Tyrone since they were pardoned. What they would do upon hearing of the Spaniards' footing in Munster was uncertain, their hearts unknown to him. Chichester had another nephew of theirs prisoner, second in command, captured following Vstone. He gave the Lord Deputy notice of these things through Colonel Egerton, who was ready to take shipping for his return to court. Egerton had been there for passing the constableship of the castle to his kinsman Captain Seckford, both of whom requested Chichester to advertise the matter.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, in 1603, was already a place where trouble could find you. Con O'Neill was living up at Castlereagh, and he had what the old book calls a grand debauch with his friends and retainers. He sent his men down to Belfast with runlets to buy wine. The soldiers in the town attacked them, beat them, abused them, and took the wine for themselves. Con was enraged by the affront and ordered his men back to the town to revenge it. They went. In the scuffle a soldier was killed, and several on both sides were wounded. O'Neill was declared guilty of levying war against the State and imprisoned like a common felon in Carrickfergus. That imprisonment was the beginning of his end. It sealed his fate as possessor of Southern Clannaboye. James Hamilton and Montgomery would later move to save him from possible death and utter worldly ruin, rescuing him from prison by guaranteeing

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in 1760, the French commander Thurot met his end. He had taken Carrickfergus, and the day after, his forces made a peremptory demand on the people of Belfast for large quantities of wine, brandy, beer, bread, and cattle. If not complied with, they declared both Carrickfergus and Belfast would be burned. Two lighters were loaded with provisions, but the weather was stormy and only one sailed, and even that was stopped by a tender in the bay. The French repeated their menaces against Belfast, so eight or ten carts were sent out with food. Only two reached their destination, though the detained lighter was allowed to pass on to Carrickfergus. The other carts were seized by townsmen, encouraged by crowds of volunteers and militia hurrying in to fight the French. A barricade went up at the Milewater, and more than 5000 volunteers assembled for the defence of Belfast. The town's loss came to £1365, which the Government repaid. Thurot indignantly denied he had ever threatened or intended to burn the towns. But his part in it was nearly over. His 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 the whole of his force was captured and brought into the English ports.

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.

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^ 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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, a man named J. Dunbar was executed on the 10th of April 1725. He had been tried and condemned for high treason against King George at Carrickfergus. The treason was coining, the making of false money, and Dunbar was most likely a practiser of the craft in Belfast. His last speech, confession and dying words survive. In them 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. He concluded with the words: "I die in the Presbyterian communion and upwards of fifty years of age." The book that records this notes a contrast. An earlier coiner, Bromfield, had been punished only by imprisonment and the surrender of his forging instruments, under the Cromwellian government. Dunbar's fate, a full execution for the same crime, shows how that earlier leniency had been lost. The source is the Pinkerton manuscripts.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

This is Smithfield, where the Soup Kitchen was established in 1799, and where the poorer classes of Belfast then chiefly dwelt, in the streets and lanes immediately adjoining. On the 5th of November 1799, the Soup Establishment was announced as being put up. The distress increased as the winter advanced, and tickets were given to the helpless. The price of oatmeal, then the general food of the people, had risen at the end of the year nearly to four times its price. The Bishop of Down, then resident in Belfast, took great interest in the Soup Kitchen, occupying the chair occasionally at the meetings. 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 Reverend William Bristow in the chair, it was said that 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 pounds 17 shillings and 10 pence. The bread for the same time cost 8 pounds 2 shillings and 4 pence, bringing weekly expenses to 19 pounds and 2 pence, by which upwards of 300 persons had 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. All the Badged Begging Poor had received tickets already.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

This is North Street in Belfast, where the first lives lost to party collision in the town were taken in 1813. Two men were shot, and the event excited what the author calls wonderful consternation among the people at the time. The author of this history writes that political feeling in Belfast has greatly altered of late years. Party animosity became, during the last twenty years, more marked, disgraceful, and disastrous than it was in the beginning of the century. The shooting in North Street in 1813 was, so far as the author knows, the first time lives were lost by party collision in the town. Yet the author notes that this 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 the possession of a riotous mob. This later violence gave Belfast a bad name in England, and strangers from that country landed at the quays with pistols in their pockets to defend themselves. The author says they 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.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

As the road takes you through Belfast, there is a story from this city about a man named John M'Bride. He was required to swear that the Pretender was not the son of King James the Second, and he said he could not conscientiously do it. For this refusal he was so persecuted that he had to flee for safety to Scotland. The authorities were sensitive to any evasion of their decrees. An excited official went to M'Bride's house in Belfast to arrest him and found he had already gone. In his impotent anger the 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 in Belfast. M'Bride was also summoned to Dublin to explain his offence of publishing a sermon from a Presbyterian source.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

This is North Street, where in 1793 loyalist dragoons newly arrived in the town tore down the sign of Dumourier from above the door of a publican. The soldiers, seeing no living enemies, attacked the harmless images instead. After pulling down the Dumourier sign, they went to Mr. M'Cabe's and destroyed all his windows. Then they did the same to the house of a milliner, Miss Wills, in the Main Street, where volunteer caps and cockades were displayed. They tore down the sign of Dr. Franklin at Watson's in Forest Lane, and attacked several inhabitants in a reckless manner. They only threatened the Northern Star office on this occasion, though if they had not been brought to order by their officers and the civil power, the printing establishment might have come to a violent end sooner than it did. A letter written by a lady resident in Belfast gives an account of this, the first of several military riots which happened a short time before the rebellion. The writer was the sister of Dr. Drennan, and shared his political opinions and talent. The letter differs little from the report but contains several points referring to the state of the town in 1793.

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.

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". . . . 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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, in 1756, was a town where the mob commanded. George Macartney had consulted the Corporation on the Government's answer, and they all agreed there was no dependence or security without the Army. The town, he said, must in all probability be starved, for none would bring in meal either by land or sea until they could be secured of their property. That was impossible while the mob commanded, as was the present case. No justice dared issue a warrant against one of them, and if he did, it would be to no purpose. His house would be pulled down, and himself be demolished with it. Macartney had also forgotten, in the hurry when he wrote, to send Joy's news article or advertisement, which he called a very infamous one upon the occasion, and having the worst tendency. He called the Corporation together upon it and they thought as he did. They sent for Joy, and he pretended he had no bad intention. Macartney reprimanded him severely, 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. Joy next day gave in something to that purpose but quite impertinent, and a short article was given him to insert, conceived in the modestest terms, but it did not appear. Macartney asked what was to be done with him, whether an indictment would take place, for though nobody was mentioned, it was well known who were reflected on.

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.

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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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, in 1644, was seized by surprise. General Monro took the town before the garrison under Colonel Chichester could organise against him. Word came first from a soldier of Colonel Chichester's regiment, arriving from Carrickfergus with intelligence that Monro had ordered the garrison there, Colonel Hume's and other Scotch regiments, to be ready to march at two o'clock in the morning towards Belfast. The guards in Belfast were strengthened. Every officer, those of the field as well as others, was ordered upon duty. Horse were sent out as scouts. They returned at six in the morning and reported they had been within three miles of Carrickfergus, and that the whole country was clear. About an hour after, Monro was seen within half a mile of the town, advancing with great speed towards one of the gates. Before the drums could beat and the garrison be drawn together to make opposition, the gate was opened to him by a sergeant of Captain MacAdam's company and the soldiers of the guard. He marched orderly through the place until he came to the opposite or south gate leading to Lisnegarvey, and then directed his men to possess themselves of the cannon, bulwarks, and guards. The Government was taken by surprise. Ormond wrote at once 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." The Parliament called for an explanation from the Scotch Estates, who returned Monro's account of his reasons and motives for acting as he had done.

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

As the companion tells it

In 1690, Schomberg's army was quartered through Lisburn for the winter, and the disorder told on the officers. Colonel Herbert, in a frenzy, shot himself in the head with his pistol. Captain Garrot stabbed himself in the throat. A French officer in Lisburn threw himself out of a third story window.

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

As the companion tells it

Belfast in 1649 was a town caught between armies. About Michaelmas that year, a battle was fought at Buller's Fields, between the Royal Army and that of the Parliament. The Royal Army was defeated, and Venables, the Parliamentary commander, then entered the town. He had previously taken the garrisons of Lisnegarvie and Antrim. George Martin was Sovereign of Belfast. He was determined not to grant billets for the Parliamentary soldiers. He retired to his country house near the White House, and in consequence his house in town was plundered and his goods seized. Alarmed, Martin fled to Scotland. Venables also took the Scots' strong garrison of Belfast, with 15 pieces of ordnance and 12 barrels of gunpowder. 800 Scots were afterwards turned out of the town. They had brought their wives and children there to settle themselves. There is an obscure tradition that the contest at Buller's Fields was a skirmish outside the town. Those fields lay at the top of Donegall Street and the present York Street. Many years later, when a cotton mill was being built near this place, marks of entrenchments were found in the ground, and some balls and other articles discovered. The general statement was published by authority in 1650, in a list of victories obtained by Cromwell and the Parliament's forces.

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

As the companion tells it

In 1641, Belfast emptied. A man returned on a Monday and found most of the inhabitants fled or fleeing, carrying their goods to Carrickfergus. Old Lord Chichester was shipped aboard a vessel. He went through the town, blamed them for offering to leave, and asked for arms, either by buying or lending, but could not prevail. At last he found in Master Le Scpiire's house seven muskets.

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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Sir Brian O'Neill met his end, if the ancient records of Carrickfergus are to be believed. He was the greatest of his name to possess Belfast, an able and enterprising man in both civil and military affairs, for the age in which he lived. The State Papers reveal him as ambitious, a man who encroached on the rights of his own relatives, and who showed considerable fickleness, submitting frequently and then breaking out again just as suddenly, as if torn by contending influences. After his arrest, the Earl of Essex states he was sent up to Dublin to be tried, in Essex's words, by order of law. The Four Masters say he was tried, executed, and quartered there in Dublin, along with his friends. But the History of Carrickfergus, drawing on its ancient and contemporary records, says he was executed in this town in 1575. Another competent authority avers he was murdered in 1574 or 1575. So there is the same contradiction as to the time and manner of his death as there is about the events of the few weeks before the catastrophe in the Castle of Belfast. The variance between the Four Masters and the Earl of Essex, and the Records of Carrickfergus, is so great as to leave the perplexing story open for discussion, and to create a strong desire for further research that might elicit the actual truth.

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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, in 1657, was the scene of a violent assault inside a place of worship. Sober and peaceable people had gathered in the public Meeting Place in Belfast to hear Mr. Dix and, as the record puts it, "to seek the Lord." Mr. Henry Livingston, a preacher stationed at Drumbo, arrived with a tumultuous assemblage. He pulled Mr. Dix bodily out of the pulpit, reviling him as he did it, and declared that the Presbytery had authorized the act and that he would do the like again. Word of the attack reached Henry Cromwell, the Lord Deputy, who wrote from the Phoenix on the 22nd of September 1657. He had received a petition from Mr. William Dix describing what had happened. Cromwell called it, in his own words, "an evil dangerous example disturbing the public peace and authority of the Government." He required Sir John Clotworthy, Sir John Skevington, and Major Rawdon to look into the matter. What made the affair worse was that Livingston was at that very time drawing a salary of 100 pounds a year from the Government whose official he had so roughly handled. The Presbytery itself appears to have condemned what he did. They administered a reproof to Livingston and sent Mr. Drisdaile and Mr. Hart to Henry Cromwell to give an account. One historian, Dr. Reid, mentions only that Livingston had reflected in some unbecoming manner on the principles or character of surrounding sects, and Patrick Adair, in his Narrative, does not mention the incident at all.

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

As the companion tells it

The town of Geashill holds a story from 1642. The Baroness of Offaley, a title she held in her own right, defended her Castle of Geashill when rebels attacked that year. The brave lady became famous in Irish history for her stand. Her son was Essex Digby, son of Sir Robert Digby. He was of equally high descent on his mother's side. He was chosen as an Episcopalian clergyman to reside in Belfast. His appointment was linked to his family connections. His aunt was the Countess of Donegall, the Lady Mary Digby, and through that relationship with the Chichester family, the rulers for the time being had likely sanctioned or concurred in his appointment. Essex had been appointed to the Rectory of Geashill in 1630, while still in juvenile days. The appointment carried a clause granting him a faculty to hold the promotion to holy orders, notwithstanding his continuing study, "until such time as he shall come to riper years to take upon him the said orders." Lodge records that after the reduction of Ireland by the Parliament, Essex Digby was their established minister of Belfast. But it is his mother's defence of Geashill Castle in 1642 that endures.

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

As the companion tells it

The old Church of Belfast was called the Chapel of the Ford. It stood for travellers who came to this bare country and needed to cross the currents of the Lagan water. It was in being by 1306, though its size and appearance in that age or any after can never now be known. For centuries it was an insignificant chapel where a few wayfarers offered up their hurried prayers before crossing. It was often broken down and repaired, subject to all the casualties that both castles and churches were exposed to, but there is no account that it was ever turned from its sacred purpose until rude Cromwellian hands seized it and converted it into a citadel. The crossing itself could be dangerous. Sir Henry Sidney wrote to the Lords of the Council on the 15th of November, 1575, that he was offered a skirmish by Mac Kell Brian Erlagh at his passage over the water at Belfast. He caused it to be answered and passed over without loss of man or horse, yet because of the tide's extraordinary return, his horses swam and the footmen waded very deep. After the desecration of the church, it was restored to the townspeople and repaired, but not effectually. An Inquisition taken at Antrim on the 23rd of October, 1657, by order of the Protectorate Government, was sent to discover the state of the Irish churches, and a report was made regarding the spiritual and temporal condition of the church at Belfast.

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

As the companion tells it

Colonel Blood came back to Ireland, landing close to Carrickfergus, where he was nearly caught by Lord Dungannon. That was after he had fought at Rullion Green in Scotland. Before that return, Blood had been on the run in Ireland. Lord Conway, writing from Lisburn to Sir George Rawdon on the 18th of November 1663, told how he set guards on all the avenues near Lisburn into the counties of Down and Antrim, keeping watch night and day. But the next was market day, and Blood used the crowds to pass by. Lord Conway sent to Colonel Hill to keep a good guard at Hillsborough, and raised the country that night to watch all the ways through Kilulta into the county of Antrim. Conway could not discover where Blood had hidden himself. At Antrim, Blood was almost caught by Lord M'Alexander, but he escaped into the Glens, where he passed for a Roman Catholic priest. From the Glens he made his way into Scotland, where he fought at Rullion Green. Then he came back to Ireland, and Lord Dungannon nearly had him, but he evaded arrest again. His evasions and escapes belong to the north of Ireland plot, said to have been concocted by Presbyterians, ministers and others. Andrew Marvell wrote of him: "He chose the cassock, surcingle, and gown, the fittest mask for one that robs the crown."

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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, in County Antrim. In October 1649, Colonel Venables took the town, and what followed was remembered as a harsh eviction. The town surrendered to him on articles, the terms of which are not known. It was the only time during the civil wars that Belfast sustained anything like a siege, though on earlier occasions the town had passed from one competitor to another by stratagem rather than by force. A version of what happened to 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. Eight hundred Scots were turned out of it, whither they had brought their wives and children to inhabit. The source calls this an eviction on too large a scale to be credible. There may have been some transplantation, or the story may have had its foundation in the opposition given to the Parliamentary troops by George Martin. Martin held the office of Sovereign of Belfast in 1649. He refused to use his influence to find accommodation for the soldiers, being supposed to have Covenanting tendencies. They pillaged his dwelling, seized his goods and property, and in his alarm he fled to Scotland.

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

As the companion tells it

Lisburn is a town the road passes through or near, and in 1798 it was where General Monroe was executed for his part in the rebellion. The account comes from a letter written in the grim aftermath of that year, when the heads of traitors ornamented the corners of the tower of the ruinous market house. The writer says that the only head yet stuck up belonged to a clever man who had entered into partnership with as bad a heart as ever existed, cruel, bloodthirsty, and murderous, so much so that his own followers would have killed him had the court martial not saved them the trouble. Yet this man sustained his trial, his sentence, and the execution of it with perfect firmness, composure, and was quite collected. The writer then says, as did General Monroe at Lisburn. He goes on to compare such calmness to the way a Bailli, a Lavoisier, and the other victims of Robespierre's tyranny met their fate, calling these things a puzzle for anyone who tries to solve the inexplicable riddle of the human heart. The writer notes that the various courts martial acted honourably and dispassionately, and reflects that had those whose perverse hardness of heart made such courts necessary acted with such principles and temper, there would not now be the painful spectacle of five soldiers adjudging citizens to death instead of the unanimous voice of twelve peers.

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

As the companion tells it

Belfast suffered famine in 1801, the worst the town had endured before or since. Bread and potato prices soared. The Lord Lieutenant proclaimed strict rationing measures. It dragged on, long and hard, until the crops of July 1801 gave sanguine expectations that the famine would soon end. After the Rebellion, military observances kept up in the town for several years. The yeomanry were paramount, both horse and foot. They paraded on Sundays, their fifes playing down the street as if they were recruiting sergeants on a market day.

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

As the companion tells it

Belfast, in 1713, was where John M'Bride served as a Presbyterian minister. He refused to swear that the Pretender was not the son of King James the Second, saying he could not conscientiously do it. For this he was persecuted so much that he had to flee to Scotland for safety. When an excited official came to his house in Belfast to arrest him and found he had gone, the man thrust his sword, in impatient anger, through the band in M'Bride's picture. He was also summoned to Dublin to explain his offence of publishing, as from a Presbyterian source, a sermon advocating the opinion that the Christian. His unreserved language, the record notes, occasionally made him a ready subject for Dr. Tisdall's charges against the general body. He returned to Belfast in September 1713.

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

The stories, best first

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

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

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

Execution and quartering of Sir Brian O'Neill

Paul Jones's Naval Battle in Belfast Lough

The Castle of Belfast Burnt, Three Children Perish

Dr Haliday's Perilous Mediation During the Siege

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

Public Hanging in Castle Place for the North Street Explosion

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

The Great Meal Riots of 1756 in Belfast

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

Battle of Benburb, 1646

Hearts of Steel March from Templepatrick to Rescue Prisoner

Mass Mortality at the Great Hospital of Belfast

Northern Star Office Wrecked by Militia

Saintfield case: twelve burnt to death, 1798

Soldiers Fire on Crowd at Belfast Barrack, Killing Five

Thurot's Capture of Carrickfergus Castle, 1760

Trial and execution of Thomas Russell at Downpatrick

John Wesley Records Eviction of Tenants Around Belfast

Siege of Belfast Barrack and Gunfire at the Gate

Defence of Carrickfergus Castle Until Ammunition Exhausted

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

Mob Threatens to Drown Official in Meal Cellar

Recapture of Belfast Castle by Sir John Chichester

Thomas M'Cabe's Windows Smashed in the Riot

Blood disguised as a priest escapes into the Glens

Daily Funeral Processions Through Belfast Streets

Execution of Antonio de Silva at the Three Sisters gallows

Executions at the Old Market House, Belfast

Hearts of Steel Agrarian Unrest Originates on Donegall Estates

Militiamen Executed at Blaris Moor for United Irish Sympathies

Barricade Erected at Milewater Against French Threat

Colonel Blood's narrow escape through Lisburn

Secret night-time preaching in the Glens near Comber

Slaughter at the breast-work near Blackwater

Assault and siege of Charlemont Castle

Chichester holds Con O'Neill prisoner at Carrickfergus castle

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

Death of Thurot in Naval Engagement

Execution of coiner J. Dunbar at Carrickfergus, 1725

Famine and fever of 1799-1800 in Belfast

First party-political killings in North Street, Belfast

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

Military Riot in Belfast: Attack on Signboards and Windows

Mob Rule Prevents Justice from Issuing Warrants

Monro seizes Belfast by surprise, 1644

Officer Suicides Amid Military Disorder

George Martin's house plundered and his flight to Scotland

1641 Rebellion Panic and Flight from Belfast

Alternative account: execution of Sir Brian at Carrickfergus

Attack on Mr. Dix in the Belfast Meeting House

Baroness of Offaley's Defence of Geashill Castle, 1642

Belfast Church Seized and Turned into a Citadel

Blood nearly caught on landing near Carrickfergus

Eviction of 800 Scots from Belfast by Venables

General Monroe's Execution at Lisburn

Great Famine of 1801 devastates Belfast

John M'Bride's Persecution and Flight to Scotland