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

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

1. Grave of comedian Richard Cox Rowe at Newtownbreda

   near Newtownbreda · population centre · Down · 1792

   Richard Cox Rowe, a celebrated comedian and member of Belfast's literary club, died in Belfast in 1792 and was buried in Newtownbreda churchyard, where his tomb with a commemorative inscription still stood.

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   * Mr. Rowe was buried in Ncwtownbreda Churcli3-ard in 1792, -wliere his tomb is still to be seen. The following is the inscription on his gravestone : — " Public- Gratitude erected this stone to the memory of Richard Cox Rowe, a celebrated comedian. He was born in Dublin in the year mdccliv., and died in Belfast, where he was universally admired on account of his merits as an actor, and his gentleness of manner as a man, on the 7th May, mdccxcii. " O Reader, if talents could ever beguile

   Thy bosom of cares, and instruct thee the while ;

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 320

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Newtownbreda, there is a churchyard where Richard Cox Rowe was buried. He was a celebrated comedian, born in Dublin, who died in Belfast on the 7th of May, 1792. He was universally admired there for his merits as an actor and his gentleness of manner as a man. His tomb was still to be seen in the churchyard, inscribed: "Public Gratitude erected this stone to the memory of Richard Cox Rowe, a celebrated comedian." The stone also bore a verse: "O Reader, if talents could ever beguile thy bosom of cares, and instruct thee the while."

2. Only the Castle of Belfast remained loyal amid rebellion

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1601

   Chichester reports that upon his return, all the people had become more violent traitors than before, and all the castles and strongholds of the country, except the Castle of Belfast, were in rebel possession.

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   I haue byne backwarde since my comminge from you in geuinge aduertismentes for two causes : first for that beinge lodged in so priuate a place under the commande of so noble a generall as the lorde Deputie, I thought your honors expected not anie aduertismentes of my doinges but such as shoulde come from his Lordshipe after I hade imparted them unto him; The seconde proceeded from distrust lesse your honors woulde iudge me Idle in writinge so priuate proceedinges to so great a Counsell, but havinge nowe rune thorowe much of the business of this gouerment I hope to be pardoned in yeeldinge an accompt of my trauells. Att my retourne to this place I founde all the people more violent traytors then I hade formerly knowen them, such as serued w* me att my departure were nowe against me, all the Castles and strenths of the Countrie (but the Castle of Belfast) in their possessions, the queenes forces lestned by exchange of Companies and more weakned by the exchange, so that I was diuersly distracted, and had often in thought to seue for more assystance (w<=^ I did) and that not afforded me by reason of the manie troubles and employmentes in other parts of the kyngdome. I shoulde haue used all meanes to haue w^drawne myselfe from so daungerous a warre both for leife and reputation, had not the generall and perticulare fauours receaued both from her maiestie and your honors at my beinge in Englande commanded me to aduenture ^\^ the force I hade, hopinge that wliatsoeuer shoulde followe (endeuoringe my best) I siioulde haue your honors fauorable censures, and assystance from that noble Lorde when he coulde spare them ; so callinge ourselfes togeather

   G92 HISTORY OF BELFAST.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

   As the companion tells it

   In 1601, Belfast stood as the lone loyal hold in a country seized by rebellion. Chichester had been slow to write back, first because he was lodged in a private place under the command of so noble a general as the Lord Deputy, and thought the Council expected no news from him except what came from his Lordship after he had imparted it. His second reason was distrust, lest the Council judge him idle for writing of private proceedings to so great a Council. But having now run through much of the business of this government, he hoped to be pardoned in yielding an account of his travels. At his return to Belfast, he found all the people more violent traitors than he had formerly known them. Those who had served with him at his departure were now against him. All the castles and strengths of the country, but the Castle of Belfast, were in rebel possession. The Queen's forces were lessened by exchange of companies and further weakened by that exchange, so that he was diversely distracted and had often in thought to seek more assistance, which he did, but it was not afforded him by reason of the many troubles and employments in other parts of the kingdom. He said he should have used all means to have withdrawn himself from so dangerous a war, both for life and reputation, had not the general and particular favours received from her Majesty and the Council at his being in England commanded him to adventure with the force he had, hoping that whatsoever should follow, endeavouring his best, he should have their favourable censures, and assistance from that noble Lord when he could spare them.

3. Plot to Assassinate Sir Brian M'Phelim at Carrickfergus

   Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1568–1572

   Con M'Neyle Oge placed 200 men by night in the middle of the town of Carrickfergus intending to kill Sir Brian M'Phelim and then seize the town. This assassination attempt is recorded among the losses suffered by the inhabitants of Knockfergus since Henry VIII's reign.

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   - In addition to tliese proofs of Sir Brian's intsgrity, he had himself stated that Turlough Lynnagh had oftered to cede to him the half of his possessions if he would unite with him against the English ; and in that recapitulation of the great losses "the poor inhabitants of Knockfergus " had suffered from the time of Henry the Eighth, they mention, as one of the number of their casualties, that "Con M'Neyle Oge placed 200 men by night in the middle of the Town to kill Sir Brian M'Fellomy and then to win the town." This is a farther evidence of Sir Brian's position, and of his intimate union with Carrickfergus and the English Government. For this most curious narrative from Carrickfergus see State Papers, Carew, 1575-1588, p. 146.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 16

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Carrickfergus, Con M'Neyle Oge placed 200 men by night in the middle of the town. His purpose was to kill Sir Brian M'Phelim and then to win the town. In a recapitulation of the great losses they had suffered, the poor inhabitants of Knockfergus named this among their casualties, going back to the time of Henry the Eighth. Sir Brian had himself stated that Turlough Lynnagh offered to cede him half of his possessions if he would unite against the English. This plot against his life was further evidence of Sir Brian's integrity, and of his intimate union with the town and the English Government. The narrative is found in the State Papers, Carew, 1575 to 1588, page 146.

4. Public Whipping of Carman for Stealing Coals

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1767

   In April 1767, a carman was publicly whipped in Belfast for stealing coals that he had been entrusted to draw from the ship to their place of delivery, a punishment likely carried out in High Street.

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   "Api 1767. A Carman was pubUckly whipped for stealing coals which he Avas entrusted to draw, /ro??i the ship to the place v:here they were to he delivered." This spectacle was most probably in High Street.

   "William Atkinson teaches Mathematics, Arithmetick, Geometry, Trigonometry, Navigation, Surveying, Astronomy, Dialling, Conic Sections, Guaging, Gunnery, Algebra, Fluxions, &c., and continues to dress and sell Flax as usual."

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 288

   As the companion tells it

   Belfast, April 1767. A carman was publicly whipped for stealing coals he had been entrusted to draw from the ship to the place where they were to be delivered. The punishment was most probably carried out in High Street.

5. Rev. Gilbert Kennedy flees Scotland and hides near Comber

   near Comber · town · Down · 1660–1685

   Rev. Gilbert Kennedy fled Scotland to escape persecution under Charles II and took refuge in Ireland, concealing himself near Comber, County Down, where he continued to minister in secret.

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   The Kennedys, who are descendants of the noble family of Cassilis, in Scotland, made their first appearance in Ireland during the middle of the seventeenth century. Eev, Gilbert Kennedy, minister of Girvan, who was married to a Miss Montgomery, the great grand-daughter of the Marquis of Huntly, fled from Scotland from the persecutions in the reign of Charles the Second, and took refuge in Ireland, accompanied by his brother Thomas, also a minister. Gilbert concealed himself near Comber, County Down. Thomas settled in County

   196 HISTORY OF BELFAST.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 441

   As the companion tells it

   The Kennedys, descendants of the noble family of Cassilis in Scotland, came to Ireland in the middle of the 1600s. Rev. Gilbert Kennedy was minister of Girvan, married to a Miss Montgomery, great-granddaughter of the Marquis of Huntly. He fled Scotland to escape persecution under Charles the Second and took refuge in Ireland with his brother Thomas, also a minister. Gilbert concealed himself near Comber in County Down and continued to minister in secret there. Thomas settled in the same county.

6. Scottish army lands at Carrickfergus and quarters at Malone, 1642

   Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1642

   In April 1642, 2,500 Scottish soldiers under General Robert Monro, the first portion of a promised army of 10,000, arrived at Carrickfergus to help suppress the rebellion, with part of the force quartered at Malone near Belfast.

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   pointed governors of the County of Antrim, and to the command of the forces therein ; and this town served as a refuge for the people of the surrounding country, so far as its size and defenceless condition permitted. The inhabitants and soldiers proceeded early in 1642 to surround it with a rampart and wet ditch, which were afterwards improved and strengthened,^ and Belfast during the rebellion enjoyed immunity from any direct Irish aggression. The rebellion extended itself through other parts of the kingdom ; and at last assistance was obtained from Scotland to subdue it. In April, 1642, 2500 men, the first instalment of a stipulated army of 10,000, arrived in Carrickfergus for that purpose, under the command of General Eobert Monro. Part of this force was quartered in Malone, quite close to Belfast. The Scotch were joined by the English here, and a power thus arose to cope with the insurgents, if that object had been pursued at once with vigour and determination. But Monro, after a time, became inactive, influenced, it has been supposed, by secret instructions to protract the war. Amicable relations at the first subsisted between the Scottish commander and Chichester, Conway, Montgomery, Eawdon, and other Protestant, or, as they are frequently styled, English officers — as both were deemed to have the same desire in view, the speedy suppression of the rebellion. Details of many military transactions at a distance, in which they jointly took part, are accessible to every reader. Besides these, there are also in manuscript, or in rare tracts, narratives of specific incidents directed to particular localities — the produc-

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 49

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Carrickfergus, in April 1642, a Scottish army came ashore. Two thousand five hundred men landed here under General Robert Monro. They were the first instalment of a promised army of ten thousand, sent from Scotland to help suppress the rebellion that had spread through the kingdom. Belfast itself had become a refuge for people from the surrounding country, though its size and its defenceless condition limited how many it could shelter. Early in 1642 the inhabitants and soldiers set about surrounding the town with a rampart and a wet ditch, works that were later improved and strengthened. Because of these defences Belfast went through the rebellion free from any direct Irish aggression. Part of Monro's force was quartered at Malone, close to Belfast. The Scottish soldiers were joined there by the English, and together they formed a power sufficient to confront the insurgents, had that object been pursued at once with vigour and determination. Monro, however, after a time became inactive. It has been supposed he was influenced by secret instructions to protract the war. At first, amicable relations held between the Scottish commander and officers such as Chichester, Conway, Montgomery, and Rawdon. They were Protestant, or as they were frequently styled, English officers, and both sides were deemed to share the same desire: the speedy suppression of the rebellion.

7. Thomas Ekenhead's death from cholera in 1832

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1832

   Thomas Ekenhead, a wealthy Belfast rope-maker, died of cholera during its first outbreak in the country in 1832. His brother, a Lieutenant who swam the Hellespont with Byron, had also died long before the account was written.

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   He was the principal rope-maker of the town, and supplied the greater number of Belfast ships with cordage before the introduction of steam navigation. His brother, a Lieutenant in the army, was the Lieutenant Ekenhead who swam across the Hellespont in May, 1810, with Lord Byron; which fact, and all the circumstances connected therewith, will be found in the life of the noble poet. Thomas Ekenhead died of cholera on its first outbreak in this country in 1832, and his brother has also been long dead. They had one sister, Mrs. Dummett, who lived to a great age, and died so recently as the year 1879. She had much property, a great deal of which she left for charitable purposes. She had built a Presbyterian Church in Belfast some years ago, and bequeathed to it at her death an endowment of £3,000, a very noble act. This church is opposite the old Poor House of Belfast, not a very suitable situation, we imagine, for a church of private erection, and so richly endowed. She also left £1,000, interest thereof to found a scholarship in Trinity College for ever, open only to youths from the County Antrim.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 446

   As the companion tells it

   Belfast, in the years before steam navigation, was supplied with cordage for its ships largely by Thomas Ekenhead. He was the principal rope-maker of the town. He was a wealthy man, but when cholera reached this country for the first time in 1832, he died in the outbreak. His brother had been dead long before. That brother was a Lieutenant in the army, the Lieutenant Ekenhead who swam across the Hellespont in May 1810 with Lord Byron. The circumstances of that swim are recorded in the life of the poet. They had one sister, Mrs. Dummett, who lived to a great age and died in 1879. She had much property, a great deal of which she left for charitable purposes. She had built a Presbyterian Church in the town, opposite the old Poor House, and bequeathed to it an endowment of 3,000 pounds. She also left 1,000 pounds, the interest to found a scholarship in Trinity College forever, open only to youths from County Antrim.

8. Unrest and tithe resistance near Six Mile Water, Antrim

   near Six Mile Water · river · Antrim · 1661–1667

   The letter describes how, near the Six Mile Water not far from Antrim, people refused to sign tithe payment bonds at All Saints unless a clause was added excusing them in case of war or public disturbance, reflecting unrest tied to fears of rebellion spreading from Scotland.

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   "This late rebellion in Scotland hath too much verified our fears in these parts that the indulgence lately given to the Presbyterians who were sent away and since permitted to re-enter would be of evil consequence. Ever since their coming till within these two or three months no complaints were brought to me of them but that they clancularly (^ clandestinely) did ecclesiastical offices, took and kept the people from their parish churches, received pensions regularly from the parishes which they formerly had usurped, and the people forced to pay their money by the authority of some landlords or rather landladies ; the clergy were greatly discouraged and greatly injured. But now of late they keep their conventicles more publicly and advance the former mischiefs to greater and more insufferable consequences, and have given us too much cause to believe that the Scotch rebellion was either born in Ireland or put to nurse there. May it please your grace I speak not this by chance or passion but can prove where Crookshank was entertained for many days together immediately before the rebellion. It is also informed and offered to be proved that Kennedy sometime of Templepatrick preached in the Diocese of Dromore that the people ought for a while to bear the loss of their goods for the Godly people in Scotland would speedly oppose the power. And about the Six Mile Water which is not far from Antrim the people when this summer they gave bond for payment of their tithes at All Saints would not sign the Bonds till they put in this clause, ' in case there be no war or public disturbance before that time,' or to that purpose."

   March "28, 1661.—Hillshorough. " Here I am perpetually contending with the worst of the Scotcli ministers. I have a most uncomfortable employment, but I bless

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 349

   As the companion tells it

   The road passes through country near a river, the Six Mile Water, not far from Antrim. In 1661, a letter from Hillsborough, dated March 28, described trouble along this water and the surrounding parts. The writer said the late rebellion in Scotland had confirmed fears there. Indulgence given to Presbyterians, who had been sent away and then permitted to return, was proving of evil consequence. Since their coming, they had clandestinely performed ecclesiastical offices, drawn people away from their parish churches, and received pensions from the parishes they had formerly held. The people were forced to pay by the authority of certain landlords, or rather landladies. The clergy were discouraged and injured. Now, the writer said, these ministers held their conventicles more openly and pushed the mischief further. He claimed the Scotch rebellion was either born in Ireland or put to nurse there. He could prove that a man called Crookshank was entertained for many days together immediately before the rebellion. It was also reported that Kennedy, sometime of Templepatrick, had preached in the Diocese of Dromore that the people ought for a while to bear the loss of their goods, for the godly people in Scotland would speedily oppose the power. And about this river, that summer, when the people gave bond for payment of their tithes at All Saints, they would not sign the bonds until they added this clause: "in case there be no war or public disturbance before that time," or words to that purpose.

9. Belfast Deemed Unhealthful During King William's Visit

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1690

   Lieutenant-General Douglass wrote urging that King William not remain in Belfast, describing it as very unhealthful compared to Lisburn. He recommended the King relocate for better air and lodging.

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   "Belfast, 16 June, 1690, " I think it absolutely necessary that the King stay no longer in this place, which every body does conclude to be very unhealthful. Lisburn is a healthful place ; the air there is much purer, and there is lodging abundant to be had for the whole Court. I hope you will be pleased to mind the King of this."

   General Douglass did not know from this the intentions of the King, and that neither in Belfast nor Lisburn would he make a long sojourn.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 87

   As the companion tells it

   Belfast, in 1690. King William was here, but his lieutenant-general, Douglass, wanted him gone. On the 16th of June, Douglass wrote that the King should stay no longer in Belfast, which everybody concluded to be very unhealthful. He said Lisburn was a healthful place, the air much purer, with lodging abundant for the whole Court. He hoped someone would mind the King of this. But Douglass did not know the King's intentions. Neither Belfast nor Lisburn would see a long sojourn from him.

10. Con M'Neill Oge Held Shackled Prisoner at Carrickfergus Castle

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1572

    Con M'Neill Oge, cousin-german and in fact elder brother of Sir Brian, was held as a shackled prisoner in the castle at Carrickfergus, used by the Lord Deputy as leverage to control Sir Brian's behaviour.

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    " Sir Brian MThelim hath now discovered his Irish nature, for it is advertised by sundry letters he hath not only joined with Turlough Lynagh, but also that he is the very drawer of him and the Scots to their mischievous dealing, hoping by furthering of Tirlough's demands to amend withal his own reckoning concerning the Ardes. In further detecting of his lewdness he hath lately taken one Thomas Moore, an English gentleman, brother to Edward Moore and lieutenant to Nicholas Malby ; he setteth him out to ransom as a lawful prisoner, and maketh other arrogant demands savouring altogether of rebellion. But I intend to work a means to reclaim him to duty, and such a means as will do it indeed, or never any, except force. And this it is. There is one Con M'l^eill Oge, cousin-german to himself, a prisoner shackled in this Castle — a dangerous fellow, and such a one and so well followed in that country tha,t I believe verily he would soon turn Sir Brian out of it. And my meaning is to shake the rod upon him, and to bring him in opinion (wherewith I am already doing) that if he do go out I will turn Con out, with the fear whereof I hope to

    SIR BRIAN TREATED WITH DUPLICITY. 33

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Carrickfergus, in 1572, a man called Con M'Neill Oge was held shackled in the castle. The Lord Deputy at the time saw him as leverage against Sir Brian M'Thelim. Sir Brian, the letters said, had joined with Turlough Lynagh and drawn the Scots into mischievous dealings, hoping to further his own claims concerning the Ardes. He had also taken one Thomas Moore, an English gentleman, brother to Edward Moore and lieutenant to Nicholas Malby, and set him out to ransom as a lawful prisoner, making other arrogant demands that savoured altogether of rebellion. The Lord Deputy's plan was this. Con M'Neill Oge was cousin-german to Sir Brian, and the Deputy called him a dangerous fellow, one so well followed in that country that he believed verily Con would soon turn Sir Brian out of it. The Deputy's meaning, as he put it, was to shake the rod upon him, to bring Sir Brian into the opinion that if he did go out, the Deputy would turn Con out. With that fear, he hoped to reclaim Sir Brian to duty. He called Con M'Neill Oge in fact the elder brother of Sir Brian.

11. Death of a Daughter of Parson Berkeley in the Castle Fire

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1708

    Tradition holds that a daughter of Parson Berkeley was also burnt to death in the Castle fire, connected to a belief that the father of Bishop George Berkeley of Cloyne had been Collector of Belfast in 1684.

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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

    Belfast was the scene of a terrible fire in April 1708. The Castle of Belfast burnt, and three of Lady Donegall's six daughters, all children, perished in the flames. Their exact ages are not known, but they were very young. Their mother was Lord Donegall's second wife, and Lord Donegall himself had been killed in his fortieth year. No contemporary document gives a full account of what happened. Molyneux, who visited the town shortly after the fire, only mentions it alongside the destruction of Lisburn by fire, the effects of which he had just seen. Sir Richard Cox, in a letter to Sir Robert Southwell dated April 27th, 1708, notes among the news of the day that Lady Donegal's House at Belfast was burned, and two or three of her daughters in it. Tradition says the fire began through the carelessness of a servant, who placed a large wood fire in a room recently washed and left it unattended. Sailors were the first to discover the blaze. A servant called Catherine Douglas lost her life. Others escaped with difficulty. And there is one more tradition, more interesting than the rest. It is said that a daughter of Parson Berkeley was also burnt to death in the Castle. This is connected to a belief that the father of the great George Berkeley, Bishop of Cloyne, was Collector of Belfast in 1684. In fact it was not his father but his grandfather who held that office. The fact is mentioned in the introduction to the Life of Berkeley and elsewhere. But who the parson was remains uncertain, for it is related that the bishop's father resided near Thomastown, in the county of Kilkenny.

12. Donegall Mausoleum at Cave Hill Replaces Carrickfergus Crypt

    near Cavehill · population centre · Antrim · 1844

    The Marquis of Donegall abandoned the crypt in St. Nicholas Church in Carrickfergus as the family place of sepulture and built a mausoleum near the new Castle of Belfast at the Cave Hill, which received the remains of the late Marquis who died in 1844.

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    1 The present Marquis of Donegall has abandoned the crypt in St. Nicholas Church iu Carrickfergus as his place of family sepulture, and for that purpose has built a mausoleum near the new Castle of Belfast, at the Cave Hill. It has already received the remains of the late IMarquis, who died in 1844; but the intention of removing thereto the coffins of all the Chichesters, and some of their connections, from the vault at Carrickfergus, if ever entertained, has not been carried out.

    The Chichesters were not all interred at Carrickfergus. Of John Chichester, the second son of Lord Edward, and uext brother to Arthur, first Earl of Donegall, this note is in Lodge's Peerage (vol. i., p. 330). "He died in 1647, as appears by the probate of his will in London, 4th February, 1647-8, and in Dublin in July, 1657 ; and is so confirmed by his Lady's will (proved 8th November, 1673), wherein she desires, that if she died in the North, to be buried privately by her deceased husband, Mr John Chichester, at Belfast." This must have been at the old church in High Street, and yet this John Chichester, interred in so obscure a grave, was not only brother of the first Earl of Donegall, but father of the second.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cavehill, there is a mausoleum the Marquis of Donegall built near the new Castle of Belfast. He had abandoned the crypt in St. Nicholas Church in Carrickfergus, which had long served as the family place of burial, and raised this new monument to take its place. The remains of the late Marquis, who died in 1844, were brought there. The plan, if it was ever truly formed, was to remove the coffins of all the Chichesters and some of their connections from the vault at Carrickfergus, but that removal was never carried out. Not every Chichester had been laid to rest at Carrickfergus in any case. John Chichester, the second son of Lord Edward and next brother to Arthur, the first Earl of Donegall, died in 1647. His will was probated in London on the 4th of February, 1647, and in Dublin in July of 1657. His lady, in her own will, proved on the 8th of November, 1673, asked that if she died in the North she be buried privately by her deceased husband at Belfast. That burial must have been at the old church in High Street. And yet this John Chichester, laid in so obscure a grave, was brother of the first Earl of Donegall and father of the second.

13. Execution of a rebel "General" near Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1799–1800

    A chief of the rebels of 1798, who called himself "General," was executed at a town not far from Belfast, and many further executions followed at other localities in the area for offences committed earlier in the rebellion.

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    But the story of our own social condition, trifling as it may now seem, is more interesting than the greater matters of the nation. The town and the country around were in a state of great unquietness. Eumours were afloat that a great force of 40,000 Frenchmen was about to land so near as in the County of Down. A chief of the rebels of 1798, calling himself " General," was executed at a town not far from Belfast, and many executions followed at other localities not many miles from this town for offences committed long before. Happily, Belfast was exempted from any more sights of the kind.

    So unsettled was the state of the country, that people had to get passes when going by Donaghadee to Scotland or England. These at first cost only three pence, but a man calling himself a " Trogger" complains that the charge was now two shillings and sixpence, and as his business required very frequent visits to Scotland, the expense of the passes was rather serious. The mails were resumed in April, 1799, between Belfast and Dublin, the travelling between the two places having been interrupted or partially discontinued during the Eebellion. Advertisements are frequent, offering rewards for the apprehension of burglars who broke into houses in Belfast and Whitehouse, and everything indicated disorder, fear, and misgovernment.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 380

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast after the rebellion was a town on edge. The country around it was restless, and rumours spread that 40,000 Frenchmen were about to land as near as County Down. A chief of the rebels of 1798, who called himself General, was executed at a town not far from Belfast. Many more executions followed at other localities not many miles away, for offences committed long before. Belfast itself was spared any further sights of that kind. The disorder touched daily life in ordinary ways. People travelling by Donaghadee to Scotland or England had to obtain passes. At first the passes cost only three pence, but a man who called himself a Trogger complained that the charge had risen to two shillings and sixpence. His business required frequent visits to Scotland, and the expense was serious for him. The mails between Belfast and Dublin resumed in April 1799, after travelling between the two places had been interrupted during the rebellion. Advertisements offered rewards for the apprehension of burglars who had broken into houses in Belfast and Whitehouse. Everything pointed to disorder, fear, and misgovernment.

14. Ormond's mutiny alarm at Carrickfergus garrison

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1666

    The Duke of Ormond travelled hastily to Belfast in 1666 to quell a mutiny among four companies of the Carrickfergus garrison, fearing the disaffection of Ulster and neighbouring Scotland could lead to greater unrest.

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    persevere in their mutiny, I am resolved to-morrow morning to go myself to prevent further progress of it, and I shall make the greater haste to come there for fear my Lord of Donegall should proceed to give them those assurancies of pardon which I perceive he is enough inclined to do, and consequently prevent my intention of bringing the ringleaders to condign punishment for so great and unseasonable an insolence. And though the mutiny of four companies may seem to he of too little importance to draAV me from hence, yet considering their neighbourhood with the most disaffected part of Scotland, and the ill inclination of too many in the province of Ulster, I think it safer to hazard the making. of a Journey that might have been spared than to be wanting in case it should prove otherwise."^

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 69

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Carrickfergus, in 1666, the Duke of Ormond faced a mutiny among four companies of the garrison here. He wrote that he was resolved to go himself the next morning to prevent further progress of it. He feared that Lord of Donegall would give the mutineers assurances of pardon, and so prevent Ormond's intention of bringing the ringleaders to punishment for what he called so great and unseasonable an insolence. Ormond acknowledged that the mutiny of four companies might seem too small to draw him away. But he pointed to their neighbourhood with the most disaffected part of Scotland, and the ill inclination of too many in the province of Ulster. He thought it safer to hazard a journey that might have been spared than to be wanting in case it should prove otherwise.

15. Sepulchral urn possibly containing ashes of an O'Neill

    near Castlereagh · town · Down

    A sepulchral urn of considerable elegance and ornamentation, found alongside the O'Neill inauguration chair, was thought to contain the ashes of a distinguished O'Neill, possibly a direct ancestor of Sir Brian MacPhelim.

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    then almost " untrodden ways" near Lancaster Street, in a yard in which street it had been placed. A drawing of it was made in 1832 by the father of the writer, which, with the above particulars, was sent to the late Dr. Petrie, of Dublin, by whom the entire was published in the Dublin Penny Journal of that year, p. 208. This chair is all in one piece, and of solid whinstone ; the back is higher than 'that of an ordinary chair, the seat perhaps a little lower. It was thought desirable to reproduce it here, so kijidred to the subject under consideration, because it was perhaps the last ancient relic of the great O'Neills of Clannaboye, and because it has been lost for ever to Belfast — which would have been its most appropriate resting-place — having been purchased many years since by a discerning archajologist from the county of Sligo, and taken to that part of Ireland, where, no doubt, it still remains. Such chairs are rare — perhaps that of Castlereagh is unique in all Ireland. "In 1602," says Moryson, "Lord Mountjoy brake down the chair wherein the O'Neills were wont to be created, being of stone, planted in the open field." There is also, as a fellow-picture to the chair, represented beside it, a sepulchral urn, of considerable elegance of form and much ornamentation, which contained, there is reason to think, the ashes of an O'Neill of distinction, possibly a direct ancestor of Sir Brian MacPhelim,

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 29

    As the companion tells it

    Castlereagh is a place the road passes through, and it held something rare. The O'Neill inauguration chair stood here, all in one piece of solid whinstone, its back higher than an ordinary chair, its seat perhaps a little lower. Such chairs are rare, perhaps this one was unique in all Ireland. Beside it was found a sepulchral urn, of considerable elegance of form and much ornamentation, and there is reason to think it contained the ashes of an O'Neill of distinction, possibly a direct ancestor of Sir Brian MacPhelim. The chair was perhaps the last ancient relic of the great O'Neills of Clannaboye. A drawing of it was made in 1832 by the writer's father, and the particulars were sent to Dr. Petrie of Dublin, who published them in the Dublin Penny Journal that year, on page 208. The chair has been lost to Belfast, which would have been its most appropriate resting-place. It was purchased many years since by an archaeologist from the county of Sligo and taken to that part of Ireland, where no doubt it still remains. Moryson records that in 1602, Lord Mountjoy brake down the chair wherein the O'Neills were wont to be created, being of stone, planted in the open field.

16. Sir Alaster M'Donnell killed and buried at Kanturk

    Kanturk · town · Cork · 1647

    The M'Donnell family's ancestor Sir Alaster M'Donnell, created a knight of the field by Montrose, was killed in the south of Ireland in 1647 and buried in the grave of the O'Callaghans at Kanturk, County Cork, establishing the family burial tradition.

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    " You inquire, in yours of September 29th, if your information as to the places of my father's birth and burial is correct. He was buried in the old churchyard of Layde, near Cushendall, the spot marked by a beautiful Irish cross. This had been our family burial-place since 1647, in which year our distinguished ancestor, Sir Alaster M'Donnell, created a knight of the field by Montrose, was killed in the south of Ireland, and buried in the grave of the O'Callaghans, at Kanturk, Co. Cork. I cannot say certainly where my father was born, but I believe it was in the house you mention — not ' a large one,' but larger than its present descendant ; I say ' descendant,' for it has descended a story since my first acquaintance with it. It has sometimes been occupied by the Coast Guard.

    " My grandmother M'Donnell lived in it many years after her husband's death. From there my father and his brothers went to learn what Horace calls the elementa jJrima, in a school held in one of the Eed Bay caves by Maurice Traynor, a very remarkable man, unrivalled in all the country round as a teacher, who, in those days, might have been transported for teaching the three boys to read. He was a Eoman Catholic, and they were Protestants. Their father was a Roman Catholic, but their mother (EHzabeth Stewart, of the Ballydivity family, before they took the name of Stewart Moore) was a Protestant, and was allowed by my grandfather to bring up her sons Protestants.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 423

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Kanturk in County Cork holds a grave that began a family tradition. In 1647, Sir Alaster M'Donnell, created a knight of the field by Montrose, was killed in the south of Ireland and buried in the grave of the O'Callaghans. A M'Donnell descendant, answering an inquiry, explains that the family burial place since 1647 has been the old churchyard of Layde, near Cushendall, marked by a beautiful Irish cross. The tradition began with Sir Alaster's death and burial in the O'Callaghans' grave. The writer was also asked about his father's birthplace. He could not say certainly where his father was born, but believed it was in the house mentioned, not "a large one," but larger than its present descendant, which had sunk a story since he first knew it. It had sometimes been occupied by the Coast Guard. His grandmother M'Donnell lived there many years after her husband's death. From there his father and his brothers went to learn what Horace calls the elementa prima, in a school held in one of the Red Bay caves by Maurice Traynor, a remarkable man, unrivalled in all the country round as a teacher. In those days Traynor might have been transported for teaching three boys to read. He was a Roman Catholic, and they were Protestants. Their father was a Roman Catholic, but their mother, Elizabeth Stewart of the Ballydivity family, before they took the name of Stewart Moore, was a Protestant, and was allowed by the grandfather to bring up her sons Protestants.

17. Union School children supported during Belfast famine

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1800

    In 1800, in the midst of a famine, forty poor children attending the Union School in Belfast were both fed and educated after the school's small fund had been exhausted, prompting sermons to be preached in its favour. The venture also drew accusations of "malevolence and rancour" from opponents who saw it used for sectarian purposes.

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    The Educational Condition of this town was, it cannot be doubted, more favourable than any other in Ireland. It has been stated (Mr. Greer's MSS.) that, before the year 1800, Henry Joy M'Cracken gathered a number of the poor children of the town to give them gratuitous instruction in the old Market House ; which, if correct, is a very pleasing feature in the life of Mr. M'Cracken. But the earliest recognised Free School we have been able to discover is that called the Union School, which was originated about 1800, and called the Union, it may be conjectured, on account of that political measure being then under consideration. This was the earliest of our free schools for the poor. In 1800, sermons were preached in favour of the Union School, the little fund for the support of which was exhausted. This was in the middle of the famine, and the poor children, forty in number, were supported as well as instructed. Yet even in this poor way it did not go on smoothly, as the words " malevolence and rancour" are used in opposition to it by some, and it was perhaps used as the vehicle of a religious party. In 1802, however, a better school was established, under the title of the Belfast Weekly or Sunday School, by a few young men. In it young persons were taught the elements of knowledge. This was a Sunday school, only, as the description of it states, that the persons taught were employed through the week at their ordinary occupations. An odd circumstance regarding this school was, that the young persons then attending were instructed in writing and arithmetic on Sundays. There were 120 pupils, and the report of its proceedings is favourable and satisfactory. We have not ascertained where it was situated. ISTo such thing as a free daily school appears to have been yet contemplated. The managers further

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 393

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast, around 1800, had better schooling for its poor than any other town in Ireland. Before that year, Henry Joy M'Cracken gathered poor children in the old Market House to give them free instruction. The earliest recognised free school, though, was the Union School, begun about 1800 and called the Union, likely on account of that political measure being under consideration at the time. In 1800, sermons were preached in favour of the Union School. Its little fund was exhausted, and this was the middle of a famine. Forty poor children were supported as well as instructed there. Yet even so, it did not go smoothly. The words, to use the source, "malevolence and rancour" were spoken in opposition to it by some, and it was perhaps used as the vehicle of a religious party. In 1802, a few young men established a better school, the Belfast Weekly or Sunday School. Young persons were taught the elements of knowledge. It was a Sunday school only, the persons taught being employed through the week at their ordinary occupations. An odd thing about it was that the young persons attending were instructed in writing and arithmetic on Sundays. There were 120 pupils, and the report of its proceedings was favourable and satisfactory. Where it was situated has not been ascertained. No such thing as a free daily school appears to have been yet contemplated.

18. Walter Burk dies of hunger imprisoned at Greencastle

    Greencastle · town · Donegal · 1332

    Walter, son of Sir William Burk, was taken prisoner by the Brown Earl and brought to the new castle of Inis-Eoghain (Greencastle), where he died of hunger in the prison of that castle.

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    1 The maltreatment inflicted by the young earl on his kinsman for alleged in.sults to his wife was rather a serious one, and is succinctly related in these words by one of the chroniclers— "1332. Walter, sou of Sir William Burk, was taken prisoner by the Brown Earl, who afterwards took him with him to the new castle of Inis-Eoghain ; and he died of hunger in the prison of that castle." Note. — "Neiv CasLle, Green Castle, near the mouth of Lough Foyle, in the Barony of Lmishowen and County of Donegal." — Annals of Loch Ce, vol. i., p. 617.

    2 Jac. Grace Annales Hibernice, p. 126.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 7

    As the companion tells it

    Greencastle sits near the mouth of Lough Foyle in Donegal. In 1332 a man met his end here in grim circumstances. Walter, son of Sir William Burk, was taken prisoner by the Brown Earl. The chronicles say the earl acted because of alleged insults Walter had made against his wife. The earl brought Walter to the new castle of Inis-Eoghain, and there Walter died of hunger in the prison of that castle. A kinsman killed slowly by a kinsman, over a matter of honour and a wife's name. The castle was new then. Walter never left it.

19. Belfast churchyard bones scattered and mingled after centuries of burial

    near Belfast · city · Antrim

    Numerous seventeenth-century Belfast wills instructed burial in the church or churchyard of Belfast, but within the last sixty years the bones and skulls of these burials were scattered and promiscuously mingled together, with no trace of the once-cherished graves remaining.

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    There are numerous other wills of Burgesses, and some of Sovereigns of Belfast, obtainable. They are generally tame and commonplace, very many of them containing the injunction to be buried in the church or churchyard of Belfast. Roger Leathes, tanner, to be more explicit, desires to be laid " on y^ east side of y^ southe church door ;" John Moore, a baker (1671), to be buried in the church of Belfast " with all rights and Ceremonys thereunto belonging." Vain endeavour to preserve from devouring time the fleeting name ! Such bones and skulls as were not scattered more than sixty years ago were for the most part promiscuously mingled, gentle and simple alike, in one place of deposit. The ground which in their living days was so dear to the dead occupants — some of them expressing in their wills their desire to be buried with their ancestors — and which was expected to continue in sepulchral seclusion for ever, is now as devoid of any emblem of a venerable receptacle of death as the common on the heath.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 120

    As the companion tells it

    In the seventeenth century, many people of Belfast left instructions in their wills to be buried in the church or churchyard of this town. Roger Leathes, a tanner, wanted to be laid on the east side of the south church door. John Moore, a baker, in 1671, asked to be buried in the church of Belfast with all rights and ceremonies thereunto belonging. Some of the dead expressed a wish to lie with their ancestors, hoping the ground would remain undisturbed forever. But more than sixty years ago, such bones and skulls as had not already been scattered were for the most part promiscuously mingled together, gentle and simple alike, in one place of deposit. The ground that was so dear to them in life is now as devoid of any emblem of a venerable receptacle of death as the common on the heath. No trace of those once-cherished graves remains.

20. Belfast surrenders to Hamilton's army and troops garrisoned

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1689

    On the approach of General Hamilton's army Belfast surrendered, and six companies of Cormack O'Neill's regiment were immediately stationed in the town, with a troop of dragoons quartered in Malone and the Falls.

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    ^ Six companies of Cormack O'Neill's regiment were immediately stationed in the town, and a troop of dragoons in Malone and the Falls. They formed part of the force (Harris, vol. ii., p, 281) which in April of this year (1689) proceeded, under the command of Colonel Talbot, to attack Henry Hunter, who had collected a considerable body of troops near Killileagh, in the county of Down, to defend themselves from the oppressions and robberies of the Irish soldiers. This outbreak is an episode of the revolutionary war. It was suppressed, and Hunter escaped, but not till a considerable force had been sent against him. For rather a full account of Hunter and his brave exploits, see Graham's Ireland Preserved, pp. 361-365.

    * The northern towns were thrown into excessive alarm by the approach of Hamilton's army. It was chiefly now so many of the inhabitants of Belfast and other places fled from the coming storm. An humble petition from Bangor pro- M

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    In 1689 Belfast surrendered on the approach of General Hamilton's army. Six companies of Cormack O'Neill's regiment were immediately stationed in the town, and a troop of dragoons was quartered in Malone and the Falls. They formed part of the force that in April of that year proceeded under the command of Colonel Talbot to attack Henry Hunter. Hunter had collected a considerable body of troops near Killileagh in County Down to defend themselves from the oppressions and robberies of the Irish soldiers. This outbreak was an episode of the revolutionary war. It was suppressed, and Hunter escaped, but not until a considerable force had been sent against him.

21. Capture of a Notorious Murderer Reported by Chichester

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1604–1606

    Sir Arthur Chichester reported the capture of a notorious murderer and confirmed malefactor, and had to borrow £20 to reward those involved in the capture since there was insufficient money in the Treasury or Exchequer.

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    county to assemble, and interpreted the Proclamation into Irish ;" leading to the inference that Irish was the common language in a country in which it is now entirely unknown. The general poverty is almost incredible, Sir Arthur himself, in reporting the capture of a notorious murderer and confirmed malefactor, saying that, in order to reward such as deserved best in this service, he is "driven to borrow £20 to be distributed among them, tliere not being so much money in the Treasury nor in the Exchequer." It is no wonder a firm and cautious hand was required. The Lord Deputy's private affairs, wliich more interest us, must also have given him great uneasiness. In a letter to the Earl of Salisbury, June 19th, 1605, after complaining of the want of funds for public and private purposes, he proceeds to say—

    " The King's grants daily increase. There is come hither one ]\[r. James Hamilton, with two letters from the King. ... If copies of those letters be called for, the grants will be fomid to be extraordinary. When he (Chichester) was in England, it pleased the Iving to bestow on him the Castle of Belfast, and lands adjoining. He has passed it twice, and as yet he understands by this gentleman, who, it seems, has sought all the Eecords there, some question may be made thereto by reason of some grants made long since to Sir Thomas Smith ; for albeit that deed be of no force, yet not being so found void in the office, as the records of those deeds were not in the kingdom, he (Chichester) is subject to danger. He therefore prays that one letter more may be granted to him for repassing the same."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Sir Arthur Chichester reported the capture of a notorious murderer and confirmed malefactor. The country at this time was desperately poor. Chichester said that to reward those who deserved best in this service, he was, in his own words, driven to borrow £20 to be distributed among them, there not being so much money in the Treasury nor in the Exchequer. So the Crown's own coffers were empty, and the man responsible for keeping order had to find the money himself to pay the people who had helped catch a killer. The general poverty Chichester described was almost incredible. Irish was still the common language here, a fact noted when a proclamation had to be interpreted into Irish for the country to assemble. Chichester's firm and cautious hand was needed in a place where there was no money to reward even the capture of a confirmed malefactor. In a letter to the Earl of Salisbury dated June 19th, 1605, he complained again of the want of funds for both public and private purposes. He wrote that the King's grants daily increase, and that a Mr. James Hamilton had arrived with two letters from the King. Chichester had been given the Castle of Belfast and lands adjoining, and had passed it twice, but now understood that some question might be raised about it because of old grants made to Sir Thomas Smith.

22. Carrickfergus Destroyed by Fire

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1573

    The town of Carrickfergus was for the most part destroyed by fire following Captain Smith's departure, an act attributed to Sir Brian M'Phelim O'Neill and his co-partners.

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    document refers to the state of the country and the army, neither of which was at all in a satisfactory condition. Smith w^as saved from destruction in County Down by the presence of a small force there under Captain Malbie, he himself keeping possession at Carrickfergus, and not only unable to protect that town, but exercising towards its inhabitants much oppression, if their petition to the Lord Deputy against him be a trustworthy document.^ He must have left Carrickfergus and Belfast, if he ever had any hold on the latter, shortly after this petition was sent to the Lord Deputy, as it is recorded that on the 2nd June, 1573, "the Toune of Carrickfergus was for the moste parte destroyed by fier, by reason of Captain Smythe's departure out of the same, by Sur Brian M'Phellime O'Neill and his Co-partners." ^ This was found to be true by the Earl of Essex on his arrival, and may be taken as a general picture of the entire country, as is farther set forth in full, at the very beginning of the important paper referred to, in his own words : —

    " At my arrival here I found the coimtries in arms, and no place out of the hands of the Irish rebels or of Scots, but only the town of Knockfergus, which the townsmen meant to leave and abandon, having prepared all things for their journey into the English Pale, meaning only to have victualled a few small castles in tlie town, and to have mured up the doors and windows, and so to have put them in

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    Near here is Carrickfergus, a town that suffered badly in 1573. Before the fire, a man called Captain Smith kept possession at Carrickfergus, but he was unable to protect the town. The inhabitants sent a petition to the Lord Deputy against him, accusing him of exercising much oppression towards them. On the 2nd of June, 1573, the town was for the most part destroyed by fire. The record says this happened, in its words, "by reason of Captain Smythe's departure out of the same, by Sur Brian M'Phellime O'Neill and his Co-partners." When the Earl of Essex arrived, he found this to be true. He said it may be taken as a general picture of the entire country. He described the countries as being in arms, with no place out of the hands of Irish rebels or Scots except the town of Knockfergus. The townsmen meant to leave and abandon it. They had prepared all things for their journey into the English Pale, meaning only to victual a few small castles in the town, to wall up the doors and windows, and to put them in some state of defence. Captain Smith had earlier been saved from destruction in County Down by a small force under Captain Malbie.

23. Earl of Donegall's will directs burial at Carrickfergus

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1674–1675

    In his last will dated 17 March 1674, the Earl of Donegall requested that his body be decently interred at Carrickfergus in the burial place of his ancestors. He also left bequests to the poor of the parishes of Belfast and Carrickfergus.

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    And first I solemnly and sincerely render up my soul to God my most merciful Father and Creator, believing ill ye alone merits and righteousness of Jesus Christ my most gracious Savouir and Redeemer for everlasting Salvation and eternal Life, and my body to be decently interred att Carrickfergus in ye buriale place of my Ancestors, and for my worldly goods and Estate I doe order and appoint as followeth.

    And first, I doe nominate and appoint my dearly beloved wife Lettitia Countess of Donegall my sole Executrix of this my sole last will and testament, and my brother-in-law Sir Michael Hicks, Knight, and Arthur Upton, Esq., whome, out of ye speciall confidence I have in them, I appoint to be overseers to see all ye following particulars of this my last will to be truely, timely, and punctually performed.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 350

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Carrickfergus, an Earl of Donegall asked, in his last will, to be buried. The will is dated the 17th of March 1674. He left his soul to God and asked that his body be decently interred at Carrickfergus, in the burial place of his ancestors. His worldly goods and estate he set in order. He nominated his wife, Lettitia, Countess of Donegall, as sole executrix of his last will and testament. He appointed his brother-in-law, Sir Michael Hicks, Knight, and Arthur Upton as overseers, saying he had special confidence in them, to see that all the particulars of his will were truly, timely, and punctually performed. He also left bequests to the poor of the parishes of Belfast and Carrickfergus.

24. Earl of Ulster slain near the Ford of Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1333

    William De Burgo, Earl of Ulster, was slain by De Maundeville in 1333 close to the ancient Ford of Belfast. This violent death is tied to the site later occupied by the town's crossing point.

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    De Burgo, William, Earl of Ulster, slain by De Maundeville in 1333 near the Ford of Belfast, 7.

    De Curci, John, first Anglo-Roman possessor of the territory in which Belfast is, 3 ; created Earl of Ulster, 3 ; coins money, 3 ; called Prince of Ulidia, 3.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 372

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast. In 1333, William De Burgo, the Earl of Ulster, was slain by De Maundeville near the old Ford of Belfast. His violent death is bound to this place, to the crossing point the town later grew around.

25. Extraordinary funeral of Rev. William Bristow, Vicar of Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1808

    The Rev. William Bristow, Vicar of Belfast for thirty-three years and its chief magistrate for eleven, died on 22 December 1808. He was buried on the 26th with a display of respect and ceremony never before equalled in Belfast, accompanied by curious funeral usages.

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    The praises bestowed on him in the following curtailed notice of his funeral are altogether just, and but a short portion of tlie memoir, all in the same tone, which appeared after his death. He died on the 22nd December, 1808, and was buried on the 26th, with a display the equal of which had never before been seen in Belfast, and fully expressive of the respect and esteem in which he was held.

    The funeral was attended with some curious usages, as we

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 420

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast, in 1808. The Reverend William Bristow had been vicar here for thirty-three years and chief magistrate for eleven. He died on the 22nd of December and was buried on the 26th. The display was one Belfast had never seen the equal of before, fully expressing the respect and esteem in which he was held. His funeral was attended with some curious usages.

26. General Nugent's house-listing decree amid unrest

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1798–1800

    General Nugent required the names of all household inmates to be posted on houses in Belfast, with owners liable to court-martial punishment if any resident was absent overnight. The whole County of Antrim was declared to be in a state of disturbance by the magistrates.

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    It may be thought that with the troubles of 1798 the Eebellion ceased. It was scarcely so ; vigilance was still needed, and military rule still prevailed, and continued more or less during these two years. The Court-Martial continued still to be held in Belfast, and prisoners with pikes were occasionally brought in for trial. General Nugent caused the names of all the inmates of every house living therein to be af&xed in a conspicuous place on the houses, and if any be absent from sunset to sunrise, the owner shall be accountable, and be liable to such punishment as a Court-Martial shall inflict. The magistrates at the same time declared the whole County of Antrim to be in a state of disturbance. Our town participated in these stringent regulations. As an example of insubordination, Kichmond Lodge, only two miles from Belfast, the seat of Charles Ptankin, Esq., was attacked for arms by five men, whose faces were covered with green veils. Notwithstanding this and many similar outrages which took place, the people were still unwilling that the civil law should be superseded, and the military introduced in its stead. The comment on this state of the country in the document from which we quote is expressive of discontent and suppressed insubordinate feelings. The writer says — " Ten years have hardly elapsed since this

    14 HISTORY OF BELFAST. [1799.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 379

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Belfast, this is a town that lived under military rule in the years after 1798. The troubles did not end with the Rebellion. Vigilance was still needed, and military rule still prevailed, more or less during those two years. The Court-Martial continued to be held in Belfast, and prisoners with pikes were occasionally brought in for trial. General Nugent caused the names of all the inmates of every house to be fixed in a conspicuous place on the houses. If any resident was absent from sunset to sunrise, the owner was accountable, and liable to such punishment as a Court-Martial should inflict. The magistrates at the same time declared the whole County of Antrim to be in a state of disturbance. Belfast participated in these stringent regulations. As an example of the unrest, Richmond Lodge, only two miles from Belfast, the seat of Charles Rankin, was attacked for arms by five men whose faces were covered with green veils. Notwithstanding this and many similar outrages, the people were still unwilling that the civil law should be superseded, and the military introduced in its stead. The writer of the document from which this comes says, "Ten years have hardly elapsed since this"

27. Hunter's Killyleagh rebels attacked by Irish forces

    near Killyleagh · town · Down · 1689

    Henry Hunter gathered a considerable body of troops near Killyleagh in County Down to defend against oppression and robberies by Irish soldiers; Colonel Talbot led a force including troops stationed in Belfast to attack them, though Hunter escaped.

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    ^ Six companies of Cormack O'Neill's regiment were immediately stationed in the town, and a troop of dragoons in Malone and the Falls. They formed part of the force (Harris, vol. ii., p, 281) which in April of this year (1689) proceeded, under the command of Colonel Talbot, to attack Henry Hunter, who had collected a considerable body of troops near Killileagh, in the county of Down, to defend themselves from the oppressions and robberies of the Irish soldiers. This outbreak is an episode of the revolutionary war. It was suppressed, and Hunter escaped, but not till a considerable force had been sent against him. For rather a full account of Hunter and his brave exploits, see Graham's Ireland Preserved, pp. 361-365.

    * The northern towns were thrown into excessive alarm by the approach of Hamilton's army. It was chiefly now so many of the inhabitants of Belfast and other places fled from the coming storm. An humble petition from Bangor pro- M

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    Near the town of Killyleagh in County Down, in April 1689, Henry Hunter gathered a considerable body of troops to defend themselves from the oppressions and robberies of the Irish soldiers. Colonel Talbot led a force against him. That force included six companies of Cormack O'Neill's regiment, along with a troop of dragoons stationed in Malone and the Falls. This outbreak was an episode of the revolutionary war. It was suppressed, and Hunter escaped, but not until a considerable force had been sent against him.

28. Night Burials Practised in Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1717

    Entries in the Burial Registry from 1717 show that night burials were practised in Belfast, with mourning cloaks and mort cloth being carried to Newtown for one funeral while another burial was to occur the same night.

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    Besides its interest as a Funeral Register, the book contains many notes arising from the nature of its contents, and requiring at least a passing remark. Such items as the following occur : — "Novr 3, 1717. Received of cash from Mr. Sam^ Smith from the Executors of my lA Mountalexander on account of a Cloake that a piece was torn out of at his ffuneral 5s." " Paid Mr. Eichard Ashmore for Two New Larg Cloke Bagis 8s. l|d." " Paid Alexr Bigger for caring (carrying) the Clokes and Mar. Cloath to Newtown to Mr. Marss ffuneral 2s. Mr. Gamble was to be buried the same night that they cald for them."^ " Paid Charles Eamage for bringing 3 Silver Cupes from Dublin 2s. 6d." These are examples of the miscellaneous entries. Burials at night were practised in Belfast in 1717 ; and though a goldsmith was an inhabitant of the town, his skill did not recommend him as a fabricator of silver cups.

    These lugubrious details, if followed out to their extremity, would afford a surprising fund of authentic information of some of the old families of the town. The population, compactly gathered together, could not have exceeded 5000 persons, if there were even so many, at least in the first years of the Eegistry. The merchants, many of them living in the entries with their hall or principal doors but a few feet distant from each other, knew the faces and figures of all their neighbours and fellow-traders. Some were still living who had seen King William in Belfast. The strife of parties, political and

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 280

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast, in the year 1717. The burial records from that time show that people here were buried at night. The entries are plain, but they tell you what a funeral involved. On the 3rd of November, 1717, five shillings came back from the executors of Lord Mountalexander, paid by a Mr. Sam Smith, on account of a mourning cloak that had a piece torn out of it at his funeral. Two new large cloak bags cost eight shillings and a penny from a Mr. Richard Ashmore. Alexander Bigger was paid two shillings for carrying the cloaks and the mort cloth to Newtown, for the funeral of a Mr. Mars. And Mr. Gamble was to be buried the same night that they called for them. Charles Ramage got two shillings and sixpence for bringing three silver cups from Dublin. The book notes that although a goldsmith lived in the town, his skill did not recommend him as a maker of silver cups. The population of Belfast at that time, gathered closely together, could not have exceeded 5000 persons. The merchants lived in the entries, their principal doors only a few feet apart from each other, and they knew the faces and figures of all their neighbours and fellow traders. Some were still living who had seen King William in Belfast.

29. Squalid mass-house in Castle Street before St Mary's chapel

    Castle Street · street · Roscommon

    Catholic worship was later performed in a waste-house in Castle Street so unsuited for the purpose that worshippers had to bring wood or bricks to kneel on, as recalled by old persons to the writer in his youth, until St Mary's chapel was built in 1783.

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    youth that they were obliged to take pieces of wood or bricks to

    kneel on, so mean and dirty was the place. It may have been

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 204

    As the companion tells it

    This is a squalid mass-house in Castle Street. Before St Mary's chapel was built in 1783, Catholics worshipped in a waste-house so mean and dirty that people were obliged to take pieces of wood or bricks to kneel on. Old persons recalled this to the writer in his youth.

30. Trial at Downpatrick for burning twelve people in a house

    near Downpatrick · town · Down

    The index references a trial held at Downpatrick where sixteen men were tried for burning twelve people to death inside a house. This grim episode is noted only briefly as a page reference in the book's index.

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    Downpatrick, trial of sixteen men at, for burning twelve people in a house, 14.

    Drummond, Dr., 26, 58; Dr. William H., 231 ; Dr. James, 232.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 460

    As the companion tells it

    Downpatrick was the scene of a grim trial. Sixteen men stood trial here for burning twelve people to death inside a house. The record gives no names, no date, no outcome. Only that it happened, and that Downpatrick was where the law came to answer it.

31. Two men from Carnmoney parish executed for High Treason

    Carnmoney · townland · Antrim · 1803

    The County Antrim Commission trying prisoners accused of High Treason found two persons belonging to the parish of Carnmoney guilty, and both were executed. Russell's rebellious proclamation had been widely circulated and supported in that parish.

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    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

    1801-1803.] STONE BRIDGE AND DISCOUNT OFFICE. 43

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 382

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Carnmoney, two men from this parish were found guilty of High Treason by the County Antrim Commission, and both were executed. Russell's proclamation had been extensively circulated here, and the parish gave it wide support.

32. Ancient Font Stone in Shankill Graveyard

    near Shankill · parish · Antrim

    A large rude stone block in the old Shankill graveyard is traditionally believed to have served as a baptismal font. It is described as the only surviving object of antiquity at the ruined church site, aside from the mound marking where the building once stood.

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    * No vestige now remains of the old chui'ch of Shankill. A large mound alone marks the spot on which it stood. The Font is still in the graveyard ; it is a rude block of stone not less than three feet in length, and of proportionate thickness. The cavity or basin for the water is also very large. If the stone has ever served for a font at all — as tradition avers, and in which general opinion concui's — no object, either sacred or profane, could have been formed more likely to last for ever. There is no other monument of antiquity in the graveyard ; the oldest tombstone, even, is one recording the death of Homer Jackson 8th April, 1689.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 177

    As the companion tells it

    In the parish of Shankill, the old church is gone. A large mound alone marks where it stood. But the font is still in the graveyard. It is a rude block of stone, not less than 3 feet in length, and of proportionate thickness. The basin for the water is very large. Tradition says it served as a baptismal font, and general opinion agrees. No object sacred or profane could have been formed more likely to last for ever, as the old book puts it. There is no other monument of antiquity in the graveyard. The oldest tombstone records the death of Homer Jackson on the 8th of April 1689.

33. Attack on Richmond Lodge for arms

    Richmond Lodge · street · Dublin · 1798–1800

    As an example of continuing insubordination after the Rebellion, Richmond Lodge, the seat of Charles Rankin, Esq., located only two miles from Belfast, was attacked by five men with their faces covered in green veils seeking arms.

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    It may be thought that with the troubles of 1798 the Eebellion ceased. It was scarcely so ; vigilance was still needed, and military rule still prevailed, and continued more or less during these two years. The Court-Martial continued still to be held in Belfast, and prisoners with pikes were occasionally brought in for trial. General Nugent caused the names of all the inmates of every house living therein to be af&xed in a conspicuous place on the houses, and if any be absent from sunset to sunrise, the owner shall be accountable, and be liable to such punishment as a Court-Martial shall inflict. The magistrates at the same time declared the whole County of Antrim to be in a state of disturbance. Our town participated in these stringent regulations. As an example of insubordination, Kichmond Lodge, only two miles from Belfast, the seat of Charles Ptankin, Esq., was attacked for arms by five men, whose faces were covered with green veils. Notwithstanding this and many similar outrages which took place, the people were still unwilling that the civil law should be superseded, and the military introduced in its stead. The comment on this state of the country in the document from which we quote is expressive of discontent and suppressed insubordinate feelings. The writer says — " Ten years have hardly elapsed since this

    14 HISTORY OF BELFAST. [1799.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 379

    As the companion tells it

    After the troubles of 1798, the Rebellion did not simply end. Vigilance was still needed, military rule still prevailed, and this continued more or less through the two years that followed. The Court-Martial continued to be held in Belfast, and prisoners with pikes were occasionally brought in for trial. General Nugent caused the names of all the inmates of every house to be fixed in a conspicuous place on the houses, and if any were absent from sunset to sunrise, the owner was accountable and liable to such punishment as a Court-Martial should inflict. The magistrates at the same time declared the whole County of Antrim to be in a state of disturbance. As an example of this continuing insubordination, Richmond Lodge, only two miles from Belfast, the seat of Charles Rankin, Esquire, was attacked for arms by five men whose faces were covered with green veils. Notwithstanding this and many similar outrages, the people were still unwilling that the civil law should be superseded and the military introduced in its stead.

34. Burial of Presbyterian minister Jeremiah O'Quin at Billy

    near Billy · parish · Antrim · 1657

    Jeremiah O'Quin, minister of Billy in County Antrim, died in January 1657 and was buried in the churchyard there. Henry Cromwell's government paid £25 towards his debts and funeral expenses, part of which was used to erect his tomb.

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    duced in this part of the country as one of a minority who did not at first coincide in all things with his brother ministers ; he could speak Irish, and, it was considered, might serve for propagating Presbyterianism through that medium ; he, finally, when his views somewhat changed, became minister of Billy, in the County of Antrim, receiving from the Cromwellian Government the salary of £100 a-year. He was a very worthy person, and a wish was felt of following out his history to the end, by introducing the following interesting information, which fully sets it forth. He died in January, 1657, and his executor, Teig O'Moany, applied to the Government for some assistance to pay his small debts and funeral expenses. Henry Cromwell's Government, with their wonted liberality, complied with the request, and directed, probably the Commissioners of Belfast, to pay £25 for the purpose. He was buried in the churchyard of Billy, and the appropriation of a j)ortion of the generous gift applied to the erection of his tomb.

    Being aware of the above facts from the Cromwellian papers, and having learned that the tomb was still to be found, information regarding its existence and present state was sought for, and the Eev. Alexander Field, Presbyterian Minister of Dervock, most kindly furnished the following particulars : —

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 346

    As the companion tells it

    The parish of Billy in County Antrim was the last charge of a Presbyterian minister named Jeremiah O'Quin. He came into this part of the country as one of a minority who did not at first coincide in all things with his brother ministers. He could speak Irish, and it was considered he might serve for propagating Presbyterianism through that medium. When his views somewhat changed, he became minister of Billy, receiving from the Cromwellian Government a salary of 100 pounds a year. He was a very worthy person. He died in January 1657, and his executor, Teig O'Moany, applied to the Government for some assistance to pay his small debts and funeral expenses. Henry Cromwell's Government, with their wonted liberality, complied with the request, and directed, probably the Commissioners of Belfast, to pay 25 pounds for the purpose. He was buried in the churchyard of Billy, and a portion of that gift was applied to the erection of his tomb. The tomb was still to be found in later years, and the Reverend Alexander Field, Presbyterian Minister of Dervock, furnished particulars regarding its existence and present state.

35. Chichester proclaims Covenanters traitors and rebels in Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1643–1644

    By order of the Earl of Ormond, Colonel Chichester caused all those who joined the Covenant to be proclaimed traitors and rebels, and administered an oath to his regiment and the inhabitants of Belfast against the Covenant.

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    " That upon orders from the Lord of Ormond he caused proclaim all those that joined with the Covenant, traitors and rebels ; and administered an oath to his regiment and the inhabitants ^ for opposing the Covenant.

    " That he cashiered all such as had taken the Covenant, or refused to take the oath against it,

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 51

    As the companion tells it

    In Belfast, in 1643 or 1644, Colonel Chichester acted on orders from the Earl of Ormond. He had all who joined the Covenant proclaimed traitors and rebels. He gave his regiment and the people of Belfast an oath against it. Anyone who had taken the Covenant, or would not take that oath, he cashiered.

36. Death and funeral of Waddell Cunningham, interred at Newtownbreda

    near Newtownbreda · population centre · Down · 1797

    Waddell Cunningham died on 15 December 1797 in his 68th year and was buried at Newtownbreda, accompanied by the Belfast and Castlereagh Yeoman Cavalry and Belfast Yeoman Infantry along with a great crowd of townspeople.

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    " Such traits mark a character valuable in society, while it was a blessing to his numerous relations, as well as to the many individuals and families that experienced the effects of his bounty. His remains were yesterday interred at Newtownbreda, accompanied by the Belfast and Castlereagh Yeoman Cavalry, and the Belfast Yeoman Infantry (of the fourth Company of which he was Captain), with a great concourse of other inhabitants."

    The Greg Family. — " John Greg, born of a good lineage in Scotland, in the year 1693, came over and settled in Belfast as a merchant. He married a lady whose surname is unknown ; she was called Jane, which is not saying much, and he died in the year 1783, aged ninety. He had two sons ; the younger one, John, went to the West Indies about the year 1765, and became a West India planter, and died without issue in 1795, leaving his West India property to his two eldest nephews, Thomas and Samuel. The elder son, Thomas, remained at Belfast, became a successful merchant there, and married, in 1742, Elizabeth, the eldest daughter of Samuel Hyde, merchant, Belfast."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    Newtownbreda is the place the road takes you through or near, and it is where Waddell Cunningham was laid to rest. He died on 15 December 1797, in his 68th year. The passage describing him calls his character valuable in society, and says he was a blessing to his numerous relations, as well as to the many individuals and families that experienced the effects of his bounty. His remains were interred at Newtownbreda, accompanied by the Belfast and Castlereagh Yeoman Cavalry, and the Belfast Yeoman Infantry. He was Captain of the fourth Company of that infantry. A great concourse of other inhabitants came too, townspeople joining the soldiers in the funeral procession. So the burial of one man brought cavalry, infantry, and a crowd of citizens to this place, in the closing years of the eighteenth century.

37. Death of Arthur, first Earl of Donegall, in Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1675

    Arthur, first Earl of Donegall, died in Belfast on 16th March 1675, shortly after corporation reform discussions, and was buried with great ceremony in Carrickfergus.

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    A short time after these matters were under discussion, Arthur, first Earl of Donegall, died in Belfast (16th March, 1675), and was buried with great ceremony in Carrickfergus.^

    The entire dearth of facts or events that could properly be incorporated with this history will cause many years to be passed over unregarded. Close search through masses of documents in public offices might rescue from long darkness a few notices more suggestive than direct, more particular to individuals than partaking of the general application in which the town as a whole community had mutual interest. It does not much concern the public to know now that the Lord Lieutenant and Council in November, 1679, write to the Sovereij,n and Burgesses of Belfast about a Mr. Anthony Bourke who was arrested, saying, "that nothing 7naterial a2)pears against him, he having become a convert to our Church;" that George M'Cartney, the most important person then in Belfast, is so far rebuked from Dublin as to be told not to trouble himself about arms, " that not being a Merchant's business;" or that Friar Paul O'Neill, considering how long Belfast is like to be without shijjping bound for Flanders or other foreign place, except Norway, is permitted by the Lord Lieutenant and Council, if he give security for shipping himself at any other port, that he have liberty to do so.^ Yet such immaterial notes would comprise much of all that it is possible to collect applicable to the general subject during the latter years of the reign of Charles the Second.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast. In March 1675, Arthur, the first Earl of Donegall, died in this town. A short time before, corporation reform matters had been under discussion. He was buried with great ceremony in Carrickfergus. After his death, the records fall silent. The historian writes of an entire dearth of facts or events that could properly be incorporated with this history, causing many years to be passed over unregarded. Close search through masses of documents in public offices might rescue a few notices from long darkness, more suggestive than direct, more particular to individuals than of general application to the town as a whole. In November 1679, the Lord Lieutenant and Council wrote to the Sovereign and Burgesses about a Mr. Anthony Bourke who had been arrested, saying that nothing material appears against him, he having become a convert to our Church. George M'Cartney, the most important person then in the town, was rebuked from Dublin and told not to trouble himself about arms, that not being a Merchant's business. Friar Paul O'Neill, considering how long the town was likely to be without shipping bound for Flanders or other foreign place, except Norway, was permitted by the Lord Lieutenant and Council, if he gave security for shipping himself at any other port, to have liberty to do so. Such immaterial notes would comprise much of all that is possible to collect during the latter years of the reign of Charles the Second.

38. Engagement at the 'bare site' called Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1575

    An engagement took place at what was described as a bare site, called Belfast, between the Lord Deputy and Brian O'Neill, showing how easily peaceable terms were disturbed even among those who had recently made treaties.

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    under the loose relations formerly prevalent, living in their old rude semi-warlike manner, paying tribute of so many beeves (almost the only kind of property which they possessed), and contracting to maintain a certain number of horsemen and footmen to serve the Queen against her enemies. Yet so unsettled or indefinite was this kind of fidelity, that before the year had expired it was broken through. In November, 1575, Sir Henry Sidney, the Lord Deputy, records in one of his letters, when describing his progress through the country, that at his passage over the water at Belfast he was " offered Skirmishe by Mac- Neill Brian Ertaugh." This was probably the same contest referred to, also in 1575, under the equally brief form, "that an engagement took place at a bare site, called Belfast, between the Lord Deputy and Brian O'Neill." So easily were peaceable terms disturbed, as this seems to have been the same O'Neill who entered into a strict treaty with the Earl of Essex a few months before.^ Arrangements, hoped to be conducive to order and good government, occupied the attention of the Earl of Essex during the short remainder of his life. He died in Dublin in 1576, and his name thenceforth ceases to be heard of in connection with Clannaboye.^ The relations established by him

    1 The treaty, binding and precise in lanf^uage, is inserted in Appendix No. 1.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    In 1575, this place was what a record calls a bare site. The old manner of things was loose and half-warlike. People lived under relations where they paid tribute in beeves, almost the only property they possessed, and contracted to maintain horsemen and footmen to serve the Queen against her enemies. But this fidelity was so unsettled that before the year had expired it was broken. In November of 1575, Sir Henry Sidney, the Lord Deputy, recorded in one of his letters, describing his progress through the country, that at his passage over the water he was, in his words, "offered Skirmishe by Mac-Neill Brian Ertaugh." This was probably the same contest referred to, also in 1575, in the brief form that an engagement took place at a bare site, called Belfast, between the Lord Deputy and Brian O'Neill. Peaceable terms were disturbed easily. This seems to have been the same O'Neill who entered into a strict treaty with the Earl of Essex a few months before. The Earl of Essex occupied himself with arrangements he hoped would be conducive to order and good government during the short remainder of his life. He died in Dublin in 1576, and his name thenceforth ceases to be heard in connection with Clannaboye.

39. Fort Essex / Fortwilliam earthwork near Belfast

    near Fortwilliam · population centre · Antrim · 1573

    A small square earthwork above the Carrickfergus shore road, about a mile and a half from Belfast, was called Fort Essex in James I's time; it is conjectured to be the memorial boundary fort built by the Earl of Essex in 1573 to mark the limit of Belfast's precinct, later called Fortwilliam.

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    fast, and the other castles, named Castle Tomey (Toome), Edenduffcarrick (Shane's Castle), with some land around each of them, as if for accommodation purposes ; and the opinion held both of them and Belfast at the time is very definitely expressed. An explanation of the Belfast notice alone will be attempted, and perhaps it may be done but imperfectly. There is a small s(]^uaie fort, or earthwork, some little distance above the Carrickfergus shore road, and about a mile and a-half or two miles from Belfast. It has been the subject of some conjecture ; but it is possible the arrangement between Smith and Essex, as related in the text, may explain its history. It was called in James the First's time Fort Essex, at least no other place answering the description has ever been identified ; but, this name being lost or unknown, guesses were hazarded as to the origin of the fort, one being that it was constructed by William the Third, or by some of his army in his honour, and hence the demesne in which it is was called Fortwilliam. There is no written account, nor any probability, that the fort was made at the time of the Revolution. It is too small for any purpose of defence or security, being only about eighty feet square. Objection will also apply to its being the place mentioned in the State Papers as the fort built by Essex individually, there being no appearance of any luilding ever having been at it. Keeping in mind the facts, however, that the place was called Fort Essex, and that the agreement between Smith and Essex describes a distance from the Castle of Belfast, so nearly concurring with its actual situation, and that it is a mere earthwork, it is perhaps not an unsafe conjecture to say that this was the very memorial boundary made by the Earl of Essex, in 1573, to mark the limit of the precinct of Belfast, surrendered to him by Smith. This is no doubt conjectural, but that the Fortwilliam of the present day — the Fort Essex of a former period — is in some way mixed up with this very agreement between Smith and Essex seems probable. That Essex, however, really began to build a fort somewhere near Belfast cannot reasonably be doubted, of which here is the proof — •

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Fortwilliam, you are near the site of a small square earthwork that once sat above the Carrickfergus shore road, about a mile and a half from Belfast. It measures only about eighty feet across, too small for any real purpose of defence. In the time of James the First it was called Fort Essex, and no other place answering that description has ever been identified. The name was later lost, and guesses were made about its origin. One guess held that William the Third built it, or that his army threw it up in his honour, and so the demesne around it came to be called Fortwilliam. But there is no written account, nor any probability, that the fort was made at the time of the Revolution. A better explanation lies in an agreement between two men named Smith and Essex. The Earl of Essex came to this ground in 1573. The arrangement between Smith and Essex describes a distance from the Castle of Belfast that nearly matches the actual situation of this earthwork. It is conjectured that Essex built this mere earthwork as a memorial boundary, marking the limit of the precinct of Belfast that had been surrendered to him by Smith. It is conjectural, but the name Fort Essex and the distance described in the agreement make it probable that the Fortwilliam of today is mixed up with that very arrangement between Smith and Essex.

40. Hillsborough Council papers seized by Hamilton's army

    near Hillsborough · town · Down · 1689

    General Hamilton's army, advancing through the north of Ireland after defeating Protestant levies, seized at Hillsborough the provisions, ammunition and papers of the Association's Council gathered there.

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    officer."^ The supporters of the expected king certainly did not exhibit that alacrity and good management which are essential to success, but amidst these discouraging circumstances Captain Leighton returned from his "honourable errand," and announced to the Association that cannon and ammunition were shipped for their relief, and a great army ready to embark. This was on the 9th March, and immediately King William and Queen Mary were proclaimed in Belfast and in all the towns in the north-east parts of Ulster. According to authentic statements their congratulations were premature, for only two days after. General Hamilton's army arrived in the north of Ireland, defeated in all places the ill-ordered levies of the Protestant commanders, and seized at Hillsborough the provisions, ammunition, and papers of the Council collected at that town.^ A considerable body retreated to Coleraine ; many fled to England, some took Protections from the Irish, and others found shelter in Belfast, which, on the approach of Hamilton's army, at once surrendered to liim.^ James had himself arrived at Kinsale from Prance on the 12th of March, in the. hope of recovering his lost greatness by the assistance of his Irish subjects. His prospects at the moment were good. " The enemy," says a narrator, "became absolute masters of the whole country without the expence of many drops of blood, for the Counties of Down and Antrim being the only Inlets to the Northern Province, we may very well date the loss of Ulster* (at that time the only

    ^ Harris's Life of King William the Third, voL ii., p. 234. ^ Ihid, p. 235.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    Hillsborough, in County Down, holds a story from March 1689, when the fortunes of Ulster turned in a matter of days. On the 9th of March, King William and Queen Mary were proclaimed in Belfast and in all the towns of the north-east of Ulster. Captain Leighton had just returned from what the record calls his honourable errand, bringing news that cannon and ammunition were shipped for the relief of the Protestant Association, and that a great army stood ready to embark. The congratulations, the record tells us, were premature. Only two days later, General Hamilton's army arrived in the north of Ireland. They defeated, in all places, what the source calls the ill-ordered levies of the Protestant commanders. And here at Hillsborough, Hamilton's forces seized the provisions, the ammunition, and the papers of the Council that had gathered in this town. The loss was decisive. A considerable body retreated to Coleraine. Many fled to England. Some took Protections from the Irish. Others found shelter in Belfast, which on the approach of Hamilton's army surrendered to him at once. A narrator of the time wrote that the enemy became absolute masters of the whole country without the expense of many drops of blood. The counties of Down and Antrim, the record says, were the only inlets to the Northern Province, and from this we may date the loss of Ulster. James himself had arrived at Kinsale from France on the 12th of March, hoping to recover his lost greatness through his Irish subjects. His prospects, at that moment, were good.

41. Marshalsea Prison in Smithfield confined debtors

    Smithfield · site · Limerick

    The Marshalsea Prison, used to confine debtors who had lost cases in the Seneschal's Court, stood in Smithfield. The iron bars that once held prisoners were still visible in a house on the north side of the square.

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    The Marshalsea Prison, to confine the debtors who had been worsted in tlie Seneschal's Court, was likewise in Smitbfield, and the iron bars which kept the prisoners in confinement are still to be seen in the room of a house on the north side of the square.

    There was also in Smithfield the Hospital and Dispensary on the same side of the square, or rather in West Street, and the House of Industry, when it was established a few years after, on the south side. This square was really an important locality in the beginning of the century, and a very lively spot on Fridays.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    This is the site of the Marshalsea Prison, where debtors who had lost their cases in the Seneschal's Court were confined. It stood in Smithfield. The iron bars that kept the prisoners in confinement were still to be seen in a room of a house on the north side of the square. Smithfield held other institutions too. The Hospital and Dispensary stood on the same side of the square, or rather in West Street, and the House of Industry was established a few years after on the south side. This square was an important locality in the beginning of the century, and a lively spot on Fridays.

42. Mural monument to Sir Henry Pottinger in St. George's Church, Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim

    A mural monument to the memory of Sir Henry Pottinger, a native of Belfast distinguished in diplomatic service with China, was placed in St. George's Church, Belfast by his brother Colonel William Pottinger, recording his services.

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    The next name of an important Belfast family, but also, like that of Macartney, now unknown here, is Pottinger — the most noted member of which, so far as the town is concerned, was Thomas, King James's Sovereign, and of whom much has been already written. Great materials, however, still exist regarding the Pottingers — too great, indeed, to be all included. Many members of this family not identified Mdth Belfast have been greatly distinguished, chiefly in India, in a military and diplomatic capacity. It is a singular fact that two persons of Belfast origin, Lord Macartney and Sir Henry Pottinger, were concerned at different eras in establishing treaties with China, and in opening up a knowledge of that great empire. The career of Sir Henry Pottinger, a native of Belfast, was particularly honourable, successful, and distinguished in this regard. There is a mural monument to his memory in St. George's Church, Belfast — placed there by his brother, the late Colonel William Pottinger — recording his services, not at all in exaggerated terms.-^

    as was, without dispute, the other property mentioned. The investigation is gone into very minutely, when £169 was the balance against Mr. Macartney iu his accounts, after deducting £100 which Mr. Hamilton got of the public money for the Protestant cause. The executors were exonerated and discharged from the payment of the said £169 on account of "the great losses the Testator sutfered in his private capacity under the comon calamityes of Ireland." The seizure of Mr. Macartney's property after he had fled does not invalidate Pottinger's account of the immunity of the town from outrage in King James's time, Peter Knowles, the Collector for the latter, thinking he acted therein under legal authority ; at least, it is not evidence of indiscriminate plunder.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 124

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes through Belfast, there is a church called St. George's, and inside it a mural monument to Sir Henry Pottinger. It was placed there by his brother, Colonel William Pottinger, and it records Sir Henry's services, as the source says, not at all in exaggerated terms. Sir Henry Pottinger was a native of Belfast, and his career was described as particularly honourable, successful, and distinguished. His work lay in diplomacy, chiefly connected with China. It is a singular fact, the record notes, that two persons of Belfast origin, Lord Macartney and Sir Henry Pottinger, were concerned at different eras in establishing treaties with China, and in opening up a knowledge of that great empire. The Pottinger family itself was an important Belfast family, though now unknown there. The most noted member of the family, so far as the town was concerned, was Thomas, King James's Sovereign, of whom much has been already written. Many members of the Pottinger family not identified with Belfast were greatly distinguished, chiefly in India, in a military and diplomatic capacity. Great materials still exist regarding the Pottingers, too great, the writer says, to be all included. The monument in St. George's Church stands as a record of one of them, a son of the town whose service took him far from it, to negotiations with an empire that few in Belfast at that time would have seen.

43. Neglect and Burials at the Old Belfast Churchyard

    near Belfast · city · Antrim

    The old graveyard of Belfast's parish church, on the site of St George's, fell into a state of neglect with crumbling walls, broken tombstones, and accumulated rubbish, yet occasional interments continued to take place within its consecrated ground.

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    1774, when its insecure condition caused it to be taken down. All the rights and powers attached to it were legally transferred to St. Anne's in Donegal! Street, which thenceforward became the Parish Church of the town. St. George's Church, on the site of the old edifice, was built in the present century. No one living has ever seen its predecessor ; but many may remember the crumbling wall enclosing on the High Street side the ground in which it stood, the neglected graves, the Ijroken tombstones, the accumulated rubbish, and also occasional interments within its consecrated precincts. The old wall projected some distance towards the street beyond the present front iron railing; the wooden entrance gate to the graveyard was at the side, really in Church Lane, and from it a view was obtained of all High Street up to the old Bank Buildings, though now so large a prospect is apparently obstructed by some high or projecting houses. The walls had many monuments, the largest of which was that of the Collier^ family on the Church Lane side. It had a double row of columns and considerable inscriptions which were not legible, the soft stone of which the monument was constructed having crumbled away. The original graveyard must have been greatly larger than the present open space around St. George's Church, and it was the chief receptacle for long ages of the remains of most of the inhabitants of Belfast of every rank. For all this it would have needed large space, and in the map of 1685 the ground reached near or altogether to Ann Street.

    The first Vicar who, after the Eeformation, is known to have otficiated in the church thus described was Robert jMorley, referred to in the following terms in the visitation of Eobert Echlin, Bishop of Down and Connor : —

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 179

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Belfast, the old parish churchyard here was once the chief burial ground for the people of the town, of every rank, for long ages. The church that stood on this ground was taken down in 1774 because of its insecure condition. Its rights and powers were transferred to St. Anne's in Donegall Street, which then became the Parish Church of the town. St. George's Church was later built on the site of the old edifice. No one living has seen the old church, but many could remember the crumbling wall that enclosed the ground on the High Street side. They remembered the neglected graves, the broken tombstones, the accumulated rubbish. And still, occasional interments took place within its consecrated precincts. The old wall projected some distance towards the street beyond the present front iron railing. The wooden entrance gate to the graveyard was at the side, really in Church Lane. From that gate you could see all of High Street up to the old Bank Buildings, though now that prospect is apparently obstructed by high or projecting houses. The walls had many monuments. The largest was that of the Collier family, on the Church Lane side. It had a double row of columns and considerable inscriptions, but they were not legible. The soft stone of which the monument was constructed had crumbled away. The original graveyard must have been greatly larger than the present open space around St. George's Church. In the map of 1685, the ground reached near or altogether to Ann Street. It served as the chief receptacle for the remains of most of the inhabitants of Belfast, of every rank, for long ages.

44. Order to Bury Carrion Within Belfast and Its Liberties

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1642

    During the unsettled period following the outbreak of rebellion in 1641, the Belfast Corporation agreed to allocate money to have all carrion within the town and its liberties buried, hinting at disease risk and disorder in the besieged town.

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    ^ This was the rampart or defence encompassing the town, and the time and manner of its construction, — the time, a few months after the rebellion broke out ; and the manner, by the joint labour of the soldiers and the inhabitants. It is a pity we have no account of the meeting on the Thursday when Mr. Ash and Mr. Garnet were to hand in their report. That there had been some disturbance about this time is perhaps to be infen-ed from this obscurely- worded order in 1642, though the Eecords take no notice of such : — " It is agreed that money shall be given to some man out of the Imige ( ? ) moneys for the Town to bury all the carrion within the Town and Lib ties thereof."

    ^ MS., Trinity College, Dublin, quoted and referred to by Samuel M'Skimin in his notes, in possession of the Kev. Classon Porter, of Larne.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast in 1642 was a town behind a rampart. The defence had been built a few months after the rebellion broke out, by the joint labour of soldiers and inhabitants. There is no surviving account of the meeting on the Thursday when Mr. Ash and Mr. Garnet were to hand in their report. But an obscurely worded order from that year survives in the records. "It is agreed that money shall be given to some man out of the Imige moneys for the Town to bury all the carrion within the Town and Liberties thereof." The records take no notice of any disturbance, but the order hints at one. Dead flesh lying unburied in the streets and the ground around the town suggests disease, disorder, a place under strain. The manuscript is in Trinity College, Dublin, quoted by Samuel M'Skimin in his notes.

45. The New Burying Ground Behind the Poor House

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1802

    A letter describing the New Burying Ground at the back of the Poor House, nearly opposite M'Cabe's, noted as neat and well laid out like a garden. Many people, particularly Dissenters, were choosing their resting places there at the time of Dr. Haliday's funeral, and the Corporation refused consecration to avoid fees.

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    The same letter contains many other interesting notices. Two are here inserted. "The New Burying Ground is at the back of the Poor House nearly opposite to M'Cabe's. It is a neat place, well laid out and like a garden. Many that day were choosing their resting places, parLiculaily Dissenters. To avoid fees the Corporation would not allow consecration, and Bristow with Isaac Saunders is much hurt." This refers to the time of Dr. Haliday's funeral.

    " There is to be a great and novel exhibition here on Sunday. Dr. Bruce is to preach for our Union School. Collectors, Marchioness of Donegall, Lady Mark Kerr, Lady Harriet Skeffington, Mrs. Dickson and Mrs. Drummond. Attending Gentlemen, the Marquis, Lord Mark Kerr, Wm. Skeffington, General Drummond, the Sovereign."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 258

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast, in 1802, had a new burying ground at the back of the Poor House, nearly opposite M'Cabe's. A letter from the time calls it a neat place, well laid out, like a garden. Many people that day were choosing their resting places there, particularly Dissenters. To avoid fees, the Corporation would not allow consecration, and Bristow with Isaac Saunders was much hurt by it. The letter refers to the time of Dr. Haliday's funeral.

46. Dispensary and Fever Hospital established in Smithfield

    Smithfield · site · Limerick · 1799–1800

    The town's Dispensary and Fever Hospital was established in 1799-1800, taking over three houses in Smithfield for use as a hospital. Between December 1799 and August 1800, 105 patients were admitted, reflecting the disease burden of the famine years.

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    It was in this year also the Dispensary and Fever Hospital of the town were established. The Committee appointed report that they have taken for the purpose three houses in Smithfield. Two of the chief persons in the Dispensary were the Eev. William Bristow and Doctor James M'Donnell. They state that from the 1st December, 1799, till 1st August, 1800, 105 patients were admitted into these three houses fitted up as an Hospital. £220 were expended in the nine months.

    Much praise was given to the chief actors in these charitable works, and the great benefit that had accrued from their zealous labours is fully described. In October the subscriptions had increased to £382, but this was much short of the expenditure, so that Doctor Drummond was asked to preach a charity sermon. It is unnecessary to follow further the financial relations of the Dispensary and Fever Hospital in 1800. The old Poor House issues its address also ; it states that the funds were never so low, arising from the excessive price of all kinds of provisions, and the increasing claims upon its diminished resources. To a larger portion of the inhabitants the century certainly closed in gloom and poverty, though the most strenuous exertions were made by the respectable residents, particularly by the few medical men then in the town, to alleviate the effects of the famine.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 380

    As the companion tells it

    A dispensary and fever hospital, established in three houses in Smithfield. The committee reported that they had taken the three houses for the purpose, and fitted them up as a hospital. Two of the chief persons in the dispensary were the Reverend William Bristow and Doctor James McDonnell. From the 1st of December 1799 until the 1st of August 1800, 105 patients were admitted. Two hundred and twenty pounds were expended over those nine months. Much praise was given to the chief actors in these charitable works, and the great benefit that had accrued from their zealous labours was fully described. By October, subscriptions had increased to three hundred and eighty-two pounds, but this fell short of the expenditure, and Doctor Drummond was asked to preach a charity sermon. The old Poor House issued its own address, stating that its funds had never been so low, owing to the excessive price of all kinds of provisions and the increasing claims upon its diminished resources. For a larger portion of the inhabitants, the century closed in gloom and poverty, though the most strenuous exertions were made by the respectable residents, particularly by the few medical men then in the town, to alleviate the effects of the famine.

47. Captain George Theaker's Wish for Burial in Belfast Church

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1690

    In his will dated September 1690, Captain George Theaker, a Belfast native and captain in King William's service, expressed his desire that if he died in the north of Ireland his executors should inter his body in Belfast Church among his ancestors and children.

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    sudden alterations and changes of this uncertaine world I do make this my last will and testament in writing. . . . If I die in the north of Ireland, and if my executors can conveniently, I desire that they may interr my corps in Belfast Church amongst my ancestors and children. ... I bequeath to my deare Father Samson Theaker of Belfast the moyety of the free profits of the lands of Cullentree nere Belfast during the continuance of the present Lease provided he live so long. I leave also to my deare Father £10 . . Two thirds to his daughter Anne Theaker of what satisfaction shall be given or paid for all my arrears dureing my being concerned in their Ma*^*^^ service. ... To his wife another third of what shall be given for arrears during my being concerned in their IMa^i^s service. . . . . Daughter to get all if she survives the interest in Cullentree; if not his brother Clements Theaker. ... To the poore of Belfast I leave £5 and to Thomas Theaker of J)ublin minister one guinea to buy a mourning ring. ... I desire Black George Macartney, James Buller, Tanner, and Thomas Theaker minister to be overseers of this will. " Dated September 1690."

    Mr. Theaker was a captain in King William's service, and expressions similar to the above are not unusual in wills of the period. Like most of the other leading seventeenth century families, this one is extinct now in the town, at least as of standing or importance, though it may still be represented in the female line.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 117

    As the companion tells it

    In Belfast, in September 1690, Captain George Theaker made his will. He was a Belfast man, a captain in King William's service. He wrote of the "sudden alterations and changes of this uncertaine world" and made his wishes plain. If he died in the north of Ireland, he wanted his executors to inter his body in Belfast Church, among his ancestors and children. He left the profits of his lands at Cullentree near Belfast to his dear father Samson Theaker of Belfast, for the duration of the present lease, provided his father lived so long. He also left his father £10. Two thirds of whatever satisfaction was paid for his arrears during his service went to his father's daughter Anne Theaker, and one third to his wife. If Anne survived, she would get all interest in Cullentree; if not, it would pass to his brother Clements Theaker. He left £5 to the poor of Belfast, and one guinea to Thomas Theaker of Dublin, a minister, to buy a mourning ring. He named Black George Macartney, James Buller, Tanner, and Thomas Theaker as overseers of his will. The Theaker family was among the leading families of seventeenth century Belfast. By the time the history was written, the name was extinct in the town, at least as a family of standing or importance, though it may have continued in the female line.

48. House of Correction built at Howard Street amid crime concerns

    Howard Street · street · Dublin · 1810

    There was general complaint that Belfast had no suitable place of confinement for culprits, causing many to escape and much inconvenience. Around this time the House of Correction was built at the end of Howard Street, bearing the inscription "Within Amend, Without Beware."

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    There was a general complaint in the town about this time that there was no suitable place of confinement for culprits, whereby many escaped, and much inconvenience was suffered. Money had been subscribed by the Grand Jury of the County for this purpose since 1803, and it was probably at this period the House of Correction at the end of Howard Street, then in the fields, was built, having, on a prominent place, in large letters, " Within Amend, Without Beware."

    The Bailing at the South side of the Linen Hall was put up this year. Previously to that time it was as mean and unsightly a ditch as could anywhere have been found.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 386

    As the companion tells it

    The House of Correction stood at the end of Howard Street, then in the fields. There had been general complaint in the town that there was no suitable place of confinement for culprits, whereby many escaped and much inconvenience was suffered. The Grand Jury of the County had subscribed money for the purpose since 1803, and it was probably around this period that the building was put up. It bore on a prominent place, in large letters, the inscription: "Within Amend, Without Beware."

49. The Belfast Presbyterian Burial Registry, 1712-1736

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1712–1736

    A copious Presbyterian Burial Registry covering 1712 to 1736 records nearly 2000 funerals in Belfast, including names, dates, mourning cloaks hired, and prices charged, providing rare insight into death customs of the era.

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    " That the original Pres1)yterian congregation of Belfast Palls and Mournmg Cloaks intended at first no doubt for the accommodation of their own members, but afterwards hired out so as to produce an income of £50 per annum and upwards. The Register was lately recovered in part, and is a curious document. It includes 24 years, from 1712 to 1736, and contains a list of nearly 2000 funerals, including those of members of considerable families in different parts of the country, with the names and dates, the Palls, and the number of Cloaks let out to each, and the prices charged. "^

    The palls alluded to are called in the book, " Mar Cloths,"

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 280

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast kept a Presbyterian burial registry that runs from 1712 to 1736, and it is a curious document. The original Presbyterian congregation meant the palls and mourning cloaks for their own members, but later hired them out, bringing in 50 pounds a year and more. The register, lately recovered in part, covers 24 years and lists nearly 2000 funerals. It gives the names and dates, the palls, the number of cloaks let out to each, and the prices charged. Among the dead are members of considerable families from different parts of the country. The palls are called in the book, in the old spelling, Mar Cloths.

50. 1657 Inquisition Finds Belfast Church in Poor Repair

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1657

    An Inquisition taken at Antrim in 1657, under order of the Protectorate Government, reported on the spiritual and temporal state of Belfast's parish church, finding that the building was not in good repair despite recent restoration efforts.

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    " Belfast als Shankill Anciently Impropriat to the Abhy of Saule^ and leased by Quine Elizabth to the Countesse of Kildare which Lease was purchased in by meanes of the latte Bpp of Derrey (John Bramhall) in the year 1634, and made over from the Crowne to the Lo. Yic. Cheechester, in lew of the Impropriat Tithes of Island Magee then belonging to the Lo. Vic. Cheechester. The Eectorial Tithes of the said Parrish of Belfast being now Impropriate as aforesaid to the sd Lo. Cheechester consistinge of two Partes of the Greatte Tythes, and in this Church is a Vicarage whereof the said Lo. Cheechester hath the Patronage, and thereunto belongeth the thirde parte of the Great Tithes and all the small Tythes, — and all the said Parrish consistes of Twenty Three Townes and is bounded by the Sea and the river Lagan on the East and Southward ; on the w^east by Derrybolgie, and on the Xorth with Coole Parrish ; it extends in lenght from the Churche which is seated in the Towne of Belfast by the sea syde, south warde three myles ; north warde two myles and a halfe ; westward one myle and a halfe ; eastward the sea boundes it close by the Church yarde. The said Vicariall Tythes and Dutyes weare worth in the yeare 1640 Sixtie Poundes, and are now worth Piftie Poundes. The said Churche is not in good Repaire. The Commonwealth receaves the Profittes of the said Viccarage."^

    The jurors, one of whom was Thomas Theaker of Belfast, append to their report of this church a recommendation —

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    In 1657, an inquisition held at Antrim under the Protectorate Government examined the state of Belfast's parish church, known also as Shankill. The jurors found that "the said Church is not in good repair." The church had a long history of ownership. It was anciently impropriated to the Abbey of Saul. Queen Elizabeth leased it to the Countess of Kildare. In 1634, John Bramhall, the late Bishop of Derry, purchased that lease. The Crown then made the church over to Lord Chichester, in lieu of the impropriate tithes of Island Magee that had belonged to him. Lord Chichester held the rectorial tithes, two parts of the great tithes, and had the patronage of the vicarage. The vicar received the third part of the great tithes and all the small tithes. The parish consisted of 23 towns, bounded by the sea and the river Lagan to the east and south, by Derrybolgie to the west, and by Coole parish to the north. The church stood in the town of Belfast by the seaside, with the sea bounding it close by the churchyard. The vicarial tithes had been worth 60 pounds in 1640 and were now worth 50 pounds. The Commonwealth received the profits of the vicarage. One of the jurors was Thomas Theaker of Belfast. The jurors appended a recommendation to their report, though the record breaks off before revealing what they recommended.

51. Burial and death of John Brown, Sovereign of Belfast

    near Newtownbreda · population centre · Down · 1801

    John Brown, who had served as Sovereign of Belfast several times, died in office in 1801 aged fifty and was buried at Newtownbreda, with a great assemblage attending his funeral reflecting the high regard in which he was held.

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    Mr. Joiix Brown had been Sovereign of Belfast several times, and died in office, in 1801, aged fifty years. It is also stated that he had been Sheriff of the County Antrim; and he was reputed, at the time of his death, to be the richest man, or at least one of the richest men, in Belfast. He was buried at ISTewtownbreda, the great assemblage which followed his remains to that place attesting the respect in which he was held. So changed is Belfast, so changed are the manners and customs of it, that the residence of this important Sovereign was on Peter's Hill. The house still stands, or what we believe to be the house — a large old-fashioned structure at the corner of Brown's Square, which was so called after Mr. Brown himself. His eldest son, the Eev. John Brown, was afterwards a most popular Episcopalian minister in the town, but, having had some misunderstanding with the Donegall family or with Mr. Macartney, he retired from that office, and went to Scotland. We have seen him walking through the streets on the Sunday, attired in his academic gown, to celebrate the morning service in St. Anne's Church.

    The advertisement for the sale of some of the property in this

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 444

    As the companion tells it

    Newtownbreda is where John Brown was laid to rest. He had served as Sovereign of Belfast several times, and he died in office in 1801, aged fifty years. He had also been Sheriff of the County Antrim, and at the time of his death he was reputed to be the richest man, or at least one of the richest men, in Belfast. The great assemblage that followed his remains to Newtownbreda attested the respect in which he was held. His residence stood on Peter's Hill, a large old-fashioned structure at the corner of Brown's Square, which was called after him. His eldest son, the Reverend John Brown, became a popular Episcopalian minister in the town. He had some misunderstanding with the Donegall family or with Mr. Macartney, retired from that office, and went to Scotland. He was seen walking through the streets on a Sunday, attired in his academic gown, to celebrate the morning service in St. Anne's Church.

52. Burial of Gilbert Kennedy in Dundonald Church

    near Dundonald · parish · Down

    Gilbert Kennedy served as minister of Comber, Dundonald, and Holywood until his death, after which his remains were interred in the aisle of Dundonald Church, where his name still appears on his tomb.

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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

    The road takes you through the parish of Dundonald, in Down. Gilbert Kennedy served as minister here, and of Comber and Holywood, until his death, and his remains were interred in the aisle of Dundonald Church, where his name still appears upon his tomb. During 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. Soldiers were quartered in many of the houses, so 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.

53. Child Struck by Runaway Cart in High Street

    High Street · street · Down · 1788

    In March 1788, a young child was struck with great violence by the gudgeon of a loaded car in High Street, Belfast, and was not expected to survive. The car was under the care of a little girl at the time of the accident.

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    * " March, 1788. A young child was struck with such violence by the gudgeon of a loaded car in High Street that it is not expected to survive. The car ^ under the care of a little girl."

    500 HISTORY OF BELFAST.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 246

    As the companion tells it

    A street with a dark record, High Street in Belfast. In March 1788, a young child was struck with such violence by the gudgeon of a loaded car that the child was not expected to survive. The car was under the care of a little girl.

54. Con O'Neill's fatal debauch at Castlereagh

    near Castlereagh · town · Down

    Con O'Neill of Castlereagh was involved in a notorious drunken episode, or 'debauch,' at Castlereagh which led to serious consequences for him and his family, as recounted in the history of the O'Neills.

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    O'Neill, Con, of Castlereagh, history of, 74 to 76 ; his " debauch " at Castlereagh and its consequences, 75 ; Daniel, son of Con, notice of, 76, 77 ; Lady Alartha, her petition for suppoit, note, 120.

    O'Quinn, Jeremy, a Presbyterian minister, account of, 137 ; burial-, place of, and inscription on his tomb, Appendix No. ix., 713.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    The road passes Castlereagh, in Down. Con O'Neill lived here, and his story turns on what the old history calls his debauch at Castlereagh. The consequences were serious enough to fill several pages. His son Daniel is noted too, and later Lady Alartha, who petitioned for support.

55. Essex builds a fort near Belfast to command river passages

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1573

    In a letter dated December 1573 from Carrickfergus, Essex reports that he is building a fort near Belfast, by which he commands the passages over certain rivers, cutting down wood to the discouragement of the Irish.

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    " The Earl of Essex buildeth a forte neere Belfaste, wherby he commandeth the passages over certaine rivers and waters, and cutteth downe wood quyetly to the greate discouragement of the Irishe." — State Papers, vol. xlviii.. No. 58, Ireland, Elizabeth.

    The situation of the little earthwork here mentioned would not correspond with these requirements. It could not have commanded passages over certain

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    In December 1573, the Earl of Essex wrote from Carrickfergus that he was building a fort near Belfast. By it he commanded the passages over certain rivers and waters, cutting down wood to the great discouragement of the Irish. The author notes the little earthwork's situation would not match these requirements.

56. Formation of a society to detect and prosecute crime in Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1810–1816

    In 1810 a society was formed to detect and prosecute to conviction depredators committing offences against person or property in the town, a prelude to the later Night Town Watch Association. This reflected the fact that no regularly appointed Watch yet guarded the town at night, despite many street robberies and personal assaults.

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    The year 1810 commences with an account of the formation of a Society in due form, to detect and prosecute to conviction such depredators as may dare to commit offences against either person or property in this town. The governing body, either local or general, now more properly undertakes this office. But this was the prelude to a Society soon after formed, called the Night Town Watch Association, which took effect about two years after, and again in 1816. The Author has introduced some notices of this Association in his first volume, thinking it so strange that no regularly appointed Watch yet guarded the town at night. As there were at this period many street robberies and personal assaults committed, the respectable inhabitants • voluntarily banded themselves together to prevent and detect such crimes, and their names and mode of procedure

    1807-1810.] BELFAST ASSEMBLIES. 77

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 385

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast, a town the road passes through. In 1810, the respectable inhabitants formed a society to detect and prosecute to conviction such depredators as may dare to commit offences against either person or property in the town. It was strange that no regularly appointed Watch yet guarded the town at night. There were many street robberies and personal assaults at this period, and so people voluntarily banded themselves together to prevent and detect such crimes. This society was the prelude to another, called the Night Town Watch Association, which took effect about two years after, and again in 1816. The governing body, either local or general, now more properly undertakes this office. But at that time the people of Belfast had to organise their own protection against those who robbed and assaulted in the streets.

57. Funeral of Valentine Joyce with military honours

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1805

    The Belfast merchant Valentine Joyce died in February 1805 and was escorted to his burial by the Belfast Cavalry, merchants, infantry, and volunteer corps, being buried with military honours, reflecting the town's semi-military spirit at the time.

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    Valentine Joyce, a Belfast merchant, died in February, 1805. The account of his funeral, as a trait of the customs of Belfast when still feeling the semi-military spirit, is worth preserving. " He was escorted, on Sunday, to the place of interment by the Belfast Cavalry, of which he was a member, the merchants, infantry, and volunteer corps, and buried with military honours."

    At a large meeting of magistrates in Belfast, the Marquis of Donegall in the chair, they say " that the Sabbath has been for some time scandalously profaned in this town and neighbourhood." Therefore they forbid, and say " they will levy fines off all who are sent before them who sell spirituous liquors on Sundays, or who draw loaded carts through the streets or on the public highways, or who sell fruit, or groceries, or any other commodity, or who keep their houses open after twelve o'clock at night to sell spirituous liquors." This magisterial order is not very well expressed, but easily enough understood. It proves rather a lax state of society generally, yet touches on matters which are still a subject of contention.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 383

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast in 1805 still carried something of a semi-military spirit, and the funeral of Valentine Joyce shows it plainly. He was a Belfast merchant, and he died in February 1805. He was a member of the Belfast Cavalry, and on the Sunday of his burial he was escorted to the place of interment by that cavalry, along with the merchants, the infantry, and the volunteer corps. He was buried with military honours. The account says the funeral is worth preserving as a trait of the customs of Belfast at that time. The town's volunteer and military companies turned out for one of their own, a merchant who rode with the cavalry, and the whole procession moved through the streets on a Sunday to lay him to rest. It tells you something of how Belfast then worked, that trade and arms sat so close together, and that a merchant's burial could be a military affair.

58. Mr. Brice Silenced for Refusing the Covenant

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1644

    A Presbytery of twenty elders and four deacons was recorded in Belfast in 1644, and it silenced Mr. Brice for his refusal to accept the Covenant.

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    measure of spiritual instruction to the Scottish soldiers, and it would be satisfactory to know how the other two-thirds of this particular regiment were attended to, unless it be taken as a proof of the incorporation of Colonel Chichester's soldiers and those of the other British commanders with their Scottish allies. Nor is it likely Mr. Baird had the entire charge of the instruction of his countrymen in Belfast, but that he was often assisted by other ministers during the continuance of General Monro's army in the town. There is a notice {ante, p. 110) in the examination of Theaker, the Sovereign, that a Presbytery of twenty elders and four deacons was in Belfast in 1644, and that they had silenced Mr. Brice for refusing to accept the Covenant. It is impossible to tell of what communion Mr. Brice was. The statement would appear to imply that he was a minister here at the period named ; but the ordinary account is that the first Presbyterian minister wlio was permanently fixed in Belfast was Anthony Shaw, in 1646. His stay was brief, though long enough to put it in his power to upbraid Lord Montgomery for delivering up the town which he had entered to defend and support — ai, treacherous proceeding, and contrary to the principles on which he had hitherto acted. Mr. Shaw's charge here concurring with that event, he was therefore the minister who, in the exercise of ecclesiastical interference with civil matters, administered to the false lord a sharp rebuke. No account is preserved of anything else which he did during his short and troubled retention of the office of minister of Belfast. He soon after fled to Scotland from the persecution of his enemies.^

    Anthony Shaw was succeeded, it has been said, by a Mr. Eead, but all research has failed in discovering the time of his settlement here, or how long he held the charge. So little is known of him that he is placed by Dr. Bruce, in the Christian 3Ioderator,

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast, in 1644, had a Presbytery of twenty elders and four deacons. They silenced Mr. Brice for refusing to accept the Covenant. No record says what communion Mr. Brice belonged to. The statement would imply he was a minister in the town at the time, though the ordinary account is that the first Presbyterian minister permanently fixed in the town was Anthony Shaw, who arrived in 1646. Before that, Scottish soldiers were stationed there under General Monro. A minister named Mr. Baird had charge of giving spiritual instruction to his countrymen, though it is likely he was assisted by other ministers during the army's stay. Colonel Chichester's soldiers and those of the other British commanders appear to have been incorporated with their Scottish allies. The notice of the Presbytery comes from the examination of Theaker, the Sovereign. Anthony Shaw's stay was brief, but long enough for him to upbraid Lord Montgomery for delivering up the town he had entered to defend and support. Shaw called it a treacherous proceeding, contrary to the principles on which Montgomery had hitherto acted, and in the exercise of ecclesiastical interference with civil matters, administered a sharp rebuke to the false lord. No account is preserved of anything else Shaw did during his short and troubled retention of the office. He soon fled to Scotland from the persecution of his enemies. He was said to be succeeded by a Mr. Read, but all research has failed to discover the time of his settlement or how long he held the charge.

59. Old Market House demolished, a blackened ruin by 1810

    High Street · street · Down · 1801–1811

    The ancient Market House opposite Donegall's Castle, improved in 1666, was granted to Adam M'Clean around 1802 who demolished it. When first seen by the writer around 1810-1811 it appeared a hideous ruin, a blackened mass as if burned by fire.

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    The history of the Market House, up till the year 1801, is thus well known. In that year it must have been in fair condition, as an accurate observer states that it had several arches next the streets, enclosing an inner area in which meal was sold. Shortly after, the site was granted by the Marquis of Donegall to the late Mr. Adam M'Clean, who proceeded to pull down the ancient structure. It was first seen by the writer in 1810 or 1811, when it appeared to him to be a hideous ruin, a blackened mass as if burned by fire. It must have been a great height, so large appeared the unconnected masses, though probably seeming greater to childish eyes than it was in reality. Mr. M'Clean, after its removal, built houses and shops, of no great size, which remained there for many years. The book-shop in High Street was occupied by Mr. William M'Comb, and most of the site is now covered by the great structure, offices, and warehouses of Messrs. Forster Green & Company.

    Mr. Adam M'Clean obtained his lease in 1802. This lease is among the older ones described in the account of the Castle. The rent was only £10 per annum, and this single amount was caused by the expense the lessee was expected to incur by the removal of the great stones of which the building was composed. There is a ground plan of the Old Market House attached to this lease ; it was only 34 feet in the front next High Street, but it extended backward in Corn Market 91 feet.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 405

    As the companion tells it

    An ancient market house, the Old Market House, stood on High Street. In 1801 it must have been in fair condition, as an accurate observer states that it had several arches next the streets, enclosing an inner area in which meal was sold. Shortly after, the site was granted by the Marquis of Donegall to Adam M'Clean, who proceeded to pull down the ancient structure. It was first seen by the writer in 1810 or 1811, when it appeared to be a hideous ruin, a blackened mass as if burned by fire. It must have been a great height, so large appeared the unconnected masses, though probably seeming greater to childish eyes than it was in reality. After its removal, M'Clean built houses and shops of no great size, which remained there for many years. The book-shop in High Street was occupied by William M'Comb, and most of the site was covered by the great structure, offices, and warehouses of Messrs. Forster Green and Company. Adam M'Clean obtained his lease in 1802. The rent was only 10 pounds per annum, and this single amount was caused by the expense the lessee was expected to incur by the removal of the great stones of which the building was composed. A ground plan was attached to this lease. It was only 34 feet in the front next High Street, but it extended backward in Corn Market 91 feet.

60. Roger Leathes's precise burial instruction at Belfast church

    near Belfast · city · Antrim

    Roger Leathes, a tanner, specified in his will that he wished to be buried on the east side of the south church door of the Belfast church, an unusually explicit burial instruction among Belfast wills.

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    There are numerous other wills of Burgesses, and some of Sovereigns of Belfast, obtainable. They are generally tame and commonplace, very many of them containing the injunction to be buried in the church or churchyard of Belfast. Roger Leathes, tanner, to be more explicit, desires to be laid " on y^ east side of y^ southe church door ;" John Moore, a baker (1671), to be buried in the church of Belfast " with all rights and Ceremonys thereunto belonging." Vain endeavour to preserve from devouring time the fleeting name ! Such bones and skulls as were not scattered more than sixty years ago were for the most part promiscuously mingled, gentle and simple alike, in one place of deposit. The ground which in their living days was so dear to the dead occupants — some of them expressing in their wills their desire to be buried with their ancestors — and which was expected to continue in sepulchral seclusion for ever, is now as devoid of any emblem of a venerable receptacle of death as the common on the heath.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 120

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast has its share of old wills. Most are plain documents, carrying the simple request to be buried in the church or churchyard of Belfast. Roger Leathes, a tanner, was more specific. He asked to be laid, in his words, "on y east side of y southe church door." John Moore, a baker, in 1671 wanted to be buried in the church of Belfast with all rights and ceremonies thereunto belonging. These men hoped their bones would rest in seclusion forever. Some among the dead even expressed in their wills a desire to be buried with their ancestors. But time did not honour those wishes. Such bones and skulls as were not scattered more than 60 years ago were for the most part mingled together, gentle and simple alike, in one place of deposit. The ground that was so dear to them in life is now as devoid of any emblem of a venerable receptacle of death as the common on the heath.