The History, Topography and Antiquities of the County and City of Waterford

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

1. Wreck of the Sea-Horse transport in Tramore Bay

   Tramore · town · Waterford · 1816

   In January 1816 the Sea-Horse transport carrying the 2nd battalion of the 59th foot was driven into Tramore bay by a tempest and wrecked in full view of onlookers on shore, who could do nothing to save them; 292 men and 71 women and children perished, with only 30 men surviving.

   Read the passage

   the vessel neared the shore, those on board were distinctly seen, awaiting in agony the dreadful catastrophe. Husbands and wives, parents and children, (there were many women and infants in the ship,) were plainly observed in some few instances encouraging each other, but for the most part clinging to the timbers, or folding their arms round those they loved, that they might die together. Their anticipations were but too well founded : the vessel struck and went to pieces, when two hundred and ninety- two men, and seventy-one women and children, perished in sight of the assembled thousands. All that courage and the most devoted gallantry could do, was attempted to save them ; and there are some splendid instances of successful exertion, in which the preservers nearly shared the fate from which they had rescued others. The calamity was almost general : only thirty men were preserved. A few days after the shipwreck, nearly sixty corpses, some of them the remains of women and children, were carried on the country cars from the coast to the burying-ground, at two miles distance. The wretched survivors accompanied the melancholy procession, and witnessed their companions and relatives deposited in one vast grave. A handsome mausoleum was ordered to be placed over their remains : the work is now finished, but the expense of it being still unpaid, it has not yet been erected. The following inscription is on the stone : r

   250 t()po(;rapmy and AXTiQi'i'irKs.

   Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla

2. 1643 Attack on Lismore: Burning of the Town and Massacre of Tenants

   Lismore · townland · Waterford · 1643

   In May 1643, 200 rebels entered Lismore before dawn in revenge for the burning of Clogheen, burning most of the thatched houses and cabins in the town up to the castle gate. They burnt the alms-houses, killed two almsmen and about sixty Irish tenants including men, women and children, and took several prisoners.

   Read the passage

   *' 1643, May 28. This Sunday morning about two o'clock, 200 rebels, with a party of horse, (in revenge that my son Francis, with the forces of Lismore, had, the Friday evening before, taken, plundered, and burned the town of Clogheen, and brought Luke Everard and another of that name, with one Mr.Englys, the freeholder of Rochestown, prisoners home with him,) for want of good works, they secretly, before it was day, entered the town of Lismore, burnt most of the thatched houses and cabbins in the town, to the outgate of my castle. Took Brian Cavenagh the portrieve, Garrett Fitz Eustace Roch, my servant John O'Donovan, and two soldiers away with them prisoners: burnt my alms-houses, killed Moricc Roche and old Pollard, being two of my almsmen, and about sixty of my Irish tenants, men, women, and childrcMi, and hurt many more, as Peter Baker and his wife.

   340 TOrOGItAPIIY AM) ANTTQUITFES.

   Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 146

3. Execution of Bishop Atherton, 1640

   Waterford · city · Waterford · 1640

   Bishop Atherton of Waterford was executed on 5 December 1640 on a pretended crime based on the testimony of a single discredited witness, who later confessed the falsehood of his accusation at his own execution.

   Read the passage

   The bishop, during all the time of his most exemplary preparation for death, and even at the moment of his e.vecution, is stated to have absolutely denied the fact ; and the fellow who swore against him, when he came to be executed himself some time after, confessed at the gallows the falsehood of his accusation : — but even this strong evidence was of no avail — the bishop was executed on the 5thof December, 1640.

   From this period until the arrival of Cromwell, the great rebellion and the circumstances preceding it, entirely engross the local as well as the general history of Ireland. These important events, the exciting causes of the insurrection, and its unfortunate results, are unsuitable to the present sketch; they demand the serious and dispassionate investigation of the historian, and do not admit of a hasty or superficial notice. Suffice it to observe, that the county and city of Waterford shared in the crimes and miseries of this unfortunate period, and whatever be the cause in

   Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 32

4. Strancally Castle's dungeon-murder legend of the Desmonds

   Strancally · townland · Waterford

   The Lords of Desmond at Strancally Castle allegedly invited wealthy neighbours to festivities, then carried them through a rocky passage into a dungeon to perish, casting their corpses into the river through an opening, seizing their fortunes, until an escaped victim informed government and the castle was demolished by gunpowder.

   Read the passage

   In this neighbourhood, perhaps as being the boundary of the county, there were many fortified castles and houses of defence, chiefly the property of the Earls of Desmond. Amongst these, the castle of Strancally holds a distinguished rank, as well on account of its extent and picturesque appearance, as in consequence of the traditional tales recorded of it. The castle of Strancally is situated on a high rock on the bank of the Blackwater, which is here of considerable breadth. The castle enjoyed a bold and commanding situation, was fortified, and in every respect a place of strength. From the foundation on which it stood, an extensive subterranean cave, with a passage communicating with the river, was cut through the solid rock, and thus provided, the worthy Lords of Desmond were no contemptible^ imitators of the ancient giants. It was the custom of these gentle lords to invite their wealthy and distinguished neighbours to partake of the festivities of Strancally ; and having thus gotten them into their power, the victims were carried through the rocky passage into the dungeon, where they were suffered to perish, and from thence, through an opening which is still visible, their corpses were cast into the river : thus disposed of, their fortunes

   Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 155

5. Mass burial of Sea-Horse victims

   Drumcannon · townland · Waterford · 1816–1824

   A few days after the shipwreck, nearly sixty corpses of victims, including women and children, were carried by cart from the coast to a burying-ground two miles away and deposited in one vast grave; a planned mausoleum remained unbuilt due to unpaid expenses.

   Read the passage

   the vessel neared the shore, those on board were distinctly seen, awaiting in agony the dreadful catastrophe. Husbands and wives, parents and children, (there were many women and infants in the ship,) were plainly observed in some few instances encouraging each other, but for the most part clinging to the timbers, or folding their arms round those they loved, that they might die together. Their anticipations were but too well founded : the vessel struck and went to pieces, when two hundred and ninety- two men, and seventy-one women and children, perished in sight of the assembled thousands. All that courage and the most devoted gallantry could do, was attempted to save them ; and there are some splendid instances of successful exertion, in which the preservers nearly shared the fate from which they had rescued others. The calamity was almost general : only thirty men were preserved. A few days after the shipwreck, nearly sixty corpses, some of them the remains of women and children, were carried on the country cars from the coast to the burying-ground, at two miles distance. The wretched survivors accompanied the melancholy procession, and witnessed their companions and relatives deposited in one vast grave. A handsome mausoleum was ordered to be placed over their remains : the work is now finished, but the expense of it being still unpaid, it has not yet been erected. The following inscription is on the stone : r

   250 t()po(;rapmy and AXTiQi'i'irKs.

   Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 105

6. Massacre at Drogheda by Cromwell's forces

   Drogheda · town · Louth · 1649

   Drogheda was the first town taken by Cromwell's forces, stormed and its inhabitants massacred in cold blood.

   Read the passage

   The parliament of England having unanimously resolved to send a powerful force to repress the disturbances of this country, Cromwell thought it not unworthy of his talents to engage in the conduct of the war, and, after considerable preparation, embarked with an army of 8000 foot and 4000 horse, and landed at Dublin on the 1 5th of August, 1649. The early part of his career was distinguished by vigour and cruelty, qualities which made a deep impression upon his enemies, and gave facility to his subsequent attempts. The terror of his name advanced before him, and so intimidated his opponents, that they were with difficulty persuaded to make preparations for defence. Ormond endeavoured to arouse them to a sense of duty, and offered to send troops to defend the garrison-towns ; but Waterford peremptorily refused to receive any assistance, or to obey the orders of the royalist party. The town of Drogheda, the first of Cromwell's conquests, was taken by storm, and the inhabitants massacred in cold blood : Wexford shared the same fate, and from thence a detachment, under General Ireton,

   70 HISTORICAL SKETCH.

   Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 33

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up on Drogheda now, in County Louth. In 1649, the parliament of England resolved to send a powerful force to repress the disturbances in Ireland. Cromwell himself took command. He embarked with an army of 8000 foot and 4000 horse, and landed at Dublin on the 15th of August. His early campaign was marked by vigour and cruelty, qualities that made a deep impression on his enemies and gave facility to his subsequent attempts. The terror of his name advanced before him, intimidating his opponents so much that they were with difficulty persuaded to make preparations for defence. Ormond endeavoured to arouse them and offered to send troops to defend the garrison-towns, but Waterford peremptorily refused any assistance. Drogheda was the first of Cromwell's conquests. The town was taken by storm, and the inhabitants massacred in cold blood. Wexford shared the same fate after.

7. Reginald's Tower, the oldest castle in Ireland

   Reginald's Tower · man-made feature · Waterford · 1003–1819

   Reginald's Tower, a circular castle built by Reginald the Dane in 1003, is the oldest castle in Ireland; it later served as a fortress for Strongbow, a mint under Edward IV, and was re-edified in 1819 for the Police Establishment.

   Read the passage

   accounts, Waterford occupied a triangular space, having fortified castles at the angles. There is only one of these castles, a circular building, perfectly plain in its appearance, which still exists in good preservation : it is called Reginald's Tower, from the name of its founder, by whom it was erected in 1003. In some ancient documents, this place is called Dondory, Reynold's Tower, and the Ring Tower ; the last is a corruption of the original name. Reginald's Tower, of which a print is annexed, is the oldest castle in Ireland.

   The history of this remnant of antiquity is thus briefly summed up, on a tablet recently affixed over the entrance.

   Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 50

8. Siege of Dunhill Castle

   Dunhill · townland · Waterford · 1649

   Cromwell besieged the magnificent castle of Dunhill, seated on an insulated and lofty rock, defended by its noble female owner, said to be the Countess of Donlsle, who sustained the siege with courage.

   Read the passage

   Having totally exterminated one branch of the family of Le Poer, Cromwell, leaving his main body to advance by the most easy road, proceeded with his dragoons to the residences of the other members, and having arrived at Curraghmore, prepared to commence the work of blood. A circumstantial account is handed down amongst the followers of the family, of the means employed to soothe the bad passions of the invader : the courage and beauty, and ingenuity of a daughter of the noble owner are still enthusiastically recounted : it will be sufficient, however, to state, that the Lord of Curraghmore preserved his property and his life by an allowable, because an enforced, submission to the savage conqueror, who was under the necessity of retiring without being able to satisfy his rapacious followers. Disappointed of his prey, Cromwell hurried across the country to Donlsle, and perceiving that resistance was intended, he waited the approach of a reinforcement of foot soldiers, together with a part of his artillery, and resolutely prepared to besiege the place. The magnificent castle of Donlsle, still distinguished for its peculiar and romantic situation, seated on an insulated and lofty rock, seemed to defy the threats of its assailants. The noble owner was a female — confident in support of her rights, and sustained in the midst of danger.

   Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 35

9. Legend of the Gunner's Buttermilk at Dunhill

   Dunhill · townland · Waterford · 1649

   According to tradition, the gallant defence of Dunhill castle was led by a gunner who, after being offered only buttermilk as refreshment following a successful repulse of Cromwell's forces, in anger signalled the retreating enemy and surrendered the castle.

   Read the passage

   to retreat: he had already drawn off' a part of his forces, and allowed some repose to the anxiety of the garrison. The countess had retired to rest without attending sufficiently to the wants and comforts of the heroic gunner, who, " the fight being done, breathless and faint," sent to request that suitable refreshment might be prepared for him : a drink of buttermilk was the unrpmantic return for his exertions, which so irritated his gallant spirit that he made signals to the retiring enemy, and, on their re-appearance, surrendered the castle !

   Whether Cromwell acquired possession in the manner popularly reported, it is now difficult to determine; but there are indubitable proofs of his remorseless hand in the ruins of the castle and the adjoining church, one-half of which has been carried away by the explosion of gunpowder. — The winter season being now far advanced, Cromwell returned to his army, and proceeded, on the 2d of December, to the village of Kilmacthomas. The river here was so greatly swollen by the land floods, that the entire following day was consumed in transporting the foot soldiers : this circumstance retarded the advance of the army, which was able to march only a few miles, and was quartered for the night in several small villages. On the morning of the 4th of December, Cromwell proceeded with his usual rapidity, rifling every place of consequence as he moved

   Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 36

10. Dr. White threatens to level Waterford with salt

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1603

    When Waterford's citizens shut their gates against Mountjoy, Dr. White threatened to cut King John's charter to pieces and to level the city and strew it with salt if the citizens persisted in resisting; the citizens then submitted.

    Read the passage

    spirit of rebellion immediately appeared, the gates were shut against him, and the citizens pleaded that, by a charter of King John, they were exempted from quartering soldiers. While the parties were thus engaged, two ecclesiastics. Dr. White and a young Dominican friar, came into the camp ; they were habited in the dresses of their order. Dr. White wearing a black gown and cornered cap, and the friar wearing a white woollen frock. When they entered the lord deputy's tent. Dr. White commenced a violent religious controversy, " all of which," we are told, " his lordship did most learnedly confute." He then severely reprehended the conduct of the citizens ; threatened to draw King James's sword and cut the charter of King John to pieces ; and declared his intention, if they persisted in their obstinacy, to level their city and strew it with salt. His menaces were effectual; the citizens immediately submitted, and received the lord deputy and his army within the walls : they afterwards took the oath of allegiance, renounced all foreign jurisdiction, and to prevent any future disturbance, a garrison was stationed in the city. Overt acts of disaffection were thus checked, but the exciting causes still continued, and manifested themselves on every occasion where they were not opposed by the fears or hopes of the people.

    The discontent, which heretofore shewed itself in riots and partial insurrections, was now ripen-

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 30

11. General Blakeney's Mountain Retreat and Burial

    near Comeragh Mountains · mountain or mountain range · Waterford

    General Blakeney, an eccentric recluse, built a dwelling on the Comeragh mountains and lived there in solitude with a single servant for many years. He was buried near his residence, according to his own wish, with his dog and gun.

    Read the passage

    General Blakeney is represented as an intelligent and well informed man ; and it is, therefore, the more unaccountable, that no reason should have been assigned for his singular retirement. He continued on the mountain until his death, and, according to his own wish, was buried near his residence, with his dog and gun.

    Passing from the south to the north division of this barony, the contrast is truly singular. In the former, all is sterility and desolation ; a rude, naked, and uncultivated soil, without trees or improvements of any kind : in the latter, the face of the country and even the climate appear more favourable, and in some places there is a richness and a magnificence of scenery which is rarely surpassed. Of course the former observations do not apply to the parts of the southern division which are fortunate in enjoying the residences of wealthy individuals, around whose seats nature

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 118

12. Henry Eeles buried with horse and dog atop Knockmealdown

    Knockmealdown · townland · Waterford · 1771

    The scientist Henry Eeles, who wrote on the identity of electricity and lightning in his Letters from Lismore (1771), was buried according to his own wishes on the summit of Knockmealdown, along with his horse and dog.

    Read the passage

    the height of which is about 2,700 feet, the ascent appears most easy on the western side ; the northern face is nearly perpendicular : half way up the mountain, a slate quarry has been opened. From the summit the view is magnificent, extending in every direction as far as the eye can reach. To the north, the Rock of Cashel and the cathedral are distinctly visible : to the south, the ocean, the harbours of Dungarvan and Youghal, and a great extent of sea-coast may also be observed. About the middle of the last century, there were red deer on this mountain, but they have been long since driven away. The plant called London-pride grows here. The summit of this mountain is remarkable as being the burial-place of the ingenious Henry Eeles, who published many papers on electricity. In his principal work, which appeared in the form of Letters from Lismore, and was printed in Dublin in 1771, he claims the credit of discovering the identity of electricity and lightning. According to his own directions, Henry Eeles was buried on the highest part of Knockmeledown, with his horse and dog.

    Lismore, once a celebrated city, became afterwards a neglected and miserable village, consisting of a few hovels, and without any trace of its former magnificence, except what might be gathered from the ruins of the castle and tlu' church. It continued in this state lor many

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 151

13. Herald's threat and mayor's defiant reply at Waterford

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1487

    A herald sent by the Earl of Kildare threatened the mayor and citizens of Waterford with hanging at their doors if they did not proclaim the false king. The mayor defiantly replied he would meet the false king thirty miles from Waterford to give him an overthrow.

    Read the passage

    splendour, sent a herald, in his coat of arms, to deliver another communication to the citizens- As he was about to land, the mayor forbad him, and desired him to convey his message from the boat. The herald then, in the name of the Earl, commanded the mayor and citizens, under pain of hanging at their doors, to proclaim the king, and to accept him as their rightful prince. The mayor desired the herald to tell those who sent him, that they should not be troubled to come and hang him at his door; but (God willing) he would, with the citizens, encounter the false king and his adherents, thirty miles from Waterford, where he meant to give them an overthrow, to their dishonour and infamy. The valiant mayor, and the few who opposed the insurrection, were prepared for the encounter, their courage " screwed to the sticking-place"; but the affair terminated here. After a few idle threats against the citizens, whose possessions and franchises were declared forfeited, the new king found himself unable to support his army : he was compelled to change the scene of his adventures, and passing over into England, was met by King Henry, by whom he was taken prisoner, and his forces completely overthrown. — In return for the loyalty of the citizens, the king granted them a new charter, and sent them the following gracious letter: —

    26 HISTORICAL SKETCH.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 11

14. Plot to massacre yeomanry officers at Sargent's public-house

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1798

    Sargent, a publican in Waterford where officers of the yeomanry corps used to sup, conspired to secure their arms at a farewell supper and let in a party of rebels to kill them.

    Read the passage

    The conspiracy was first discovered by a person who happened to be in a public-house at Johnstown, where, through a thin partition, he overheard a number of conspirators conferring in the next room on the plot which was to be carried into execution on the eruption of the rebellion. The principal persons concerned were, Bohan, a baker, (leader;) Sargent, a publican; a person of the name of Quinn; and Carey, a stone-cutter. Sargent, who kept a public-house in Waterford, where the officers of the yeomanry corps used to sup, had conspired to put them to death. With this object, he signified his intention of giving a farewell supper, which would have afforded him an opportunity of securing their arms, and he was then to let in a party of rebels to complete the remainder of the deed. — The case of Quinn was rather remarkable. He had formerly been in the Artillery, and was now a servant to the Dean of Waterford, (Butson,) and in the greatest confidence of his master, insomuch that he was entrusted with the care of one of the cannon to defend the bridge at Waterford. He was in the habit of holding nightly meetings with the disaffected in the extensive vaults adjoining the deanery, where each communicated such information as had come to his knowledge in the course of the day. Sargent and Quinn were both apprehended, and found guilty of conspiracy; but, througli the intercession of friends, they were

    102 HISTORICAL SKETCH.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 47

15. St. Declan's Stone penance ritual at Ardmore

    Ardmore · town · Waterford

    On the beach at Ardmore lies St. Declan's Stone, a large rock resting on two others; on 24th July, the saint's festival, people do penance on bare knees around the stone and creep beneath it seeking cures for rheumatic pain.

    Read the passage

    which time he founded an abbey and was made Bishop of Ardmore ; he lived to a great age ; and his successor, St. Ultan, was alive in the year 550. A stone, a holy well, and a dormitory in the churchyard still bear the name of St. Declan. " St. Declan's stone" is on the beach; it is a large rock, resting on two others which elevate it a little above the ground. On the 24th of July, the festival of the saint, numbers of the lowest class do penance on their bare knees around the stone, and some, with great pain and difficulty, creep under it, in expectation of thereby curing or preventing, what it is much more likely to create, rheumatic affections of the back. In the churchyard is the " dormitory of St. Declan," a small low building, held in great veneration by the people in the neighbourhood, who frequently visit it in order to procure some of the earth, which is supposed to cover the relics of the saint. This edifice, which is extremely plain in appearance, was repaired and roofed about a century ago, at the expense of Bishop Milles. " St. Declan's Well" is near the ruins of the church, at some little distance from the village.

    The principal object of interest at Ardmore is the round tower, that opprobrium of antiquaries about which so many conflicting opinions have been advanced, and concerning which nothing has been satisfactorily proved, except the almost total ignorance which exists touching the origin and object of these buildings. The arguments of

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 140

16. Ruined church and coroneted tombstone at Donlsle

    Dunhill · townland · Waterford

    Near the castle, the ruined church of Donlsle shows signs of violent destruction, with a coroneted sandstone statue found while digging among the ruins. An uninscribed tombstone decorated with a coronet is believed to be the tomb of a Countess who perished when Cromwell took the castle.

    Read the passage

    A very ancient tombstone has also been discovered in the burying-ground ; it is without any inscription, and simply decorated with a coronet. It is supposed to have been the tomb of the Countess, who perished when the castle was taken by Cromwell.

    A considerable range of high land extends from the sea, through the parishes of Donlsle and Reisk. The rock is mostly pudding-stone and clay-slate, and occasionally large masses of jasper : some of the specimens are very beautiful. Along the coast the rocks are rich in minerals : lead and copper have been found at Annstown and Bon-

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 111

17. 1651 Surrender to Ireton and Cromwellian Plunder of Cathedral

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1651

    When Waterford was surrendered to General Ireton in 1651, depositions record that Cromwell's forces plundered the Cathedral's brazen ornaments, tombs, the great standing pelican, brazen eagle, candlesticks and the great brass font.

    Read the passage

    authority, was particularly reprobated; they pursued the Church with the most unrelenting hatred, and plundered or spoiled whatever came within their reach. In a parchment roll of depositions, taken before Commissioners in Dublin, a variety of articles are enumerated, said to have been taken from the Cathedral in the year 1651, when the city was surrendered to General Ireton. Amongst the property which appears to have been most regretted, are the brazen ornaments of the tombs, grave stones and altars ; the great standing pelican to support the Bible, the brazen eagle, two great standing candlesticks above man's height, and the great font of brass, to be ascended unto by three degrees, or stairs of massy brass, together with sundry gold and silver gilt vessels, the forms of which are minutely described.

    The members of the Cathedral were loud and persevering in their complaints, as well as in seeking redress and the restoration of their rights; and there are numberless documents which show that their claims met with the most prompt and anxious attention from the government of the restored monarch. Commissioners were appointed to investigate the several claims, and on their reports the Sheriffs of the Counties were directed, by an order of the Lords spiritual and temporal in Parliament assembled, to restore to the Church all such possessions and lands as she was actually

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 62

18. Cannon on Reginald's Tower sinks enemy ship

    Reginald's Tower · man-made feature · Waterford · 1497

    During the 1497 siege, cannon planted on Reginald's Tower fired for many days and eventually breached the side of one of the besieging ships, killing the entire crew, helping to secure the citizens' victory.

    Read the passage

    To prevent the junction of these two divisions, the ponds of Kilbarry were kept full, the besieged having raised a large mound of earth to stop the course of the river, which flows from Kilbarry into the Suir. The necessary preparations being completed, the siege was vigorously commenced and carried on, for eleven days, with great zeal and activity. In the many skirmishes and sorties which took place, the citizens were generally victorious, and routed or captured their opponents. In the field, the citizens covered themselves with glory ; but it is to be regretted that after the fight, their valiant hearts had no touch of pity ; on one occasion when, after a successful sortie in which they committed great slaughter, they returned to the city with a numerous band of prisoners, they carried them to the market-place, chopped ofl" their heads, and fastened them on stakes, as trophies of their victory. Their valour and the dread of their cruelty could no longer be resisted ; the besieged became the assailants ; the enemy were repulsed in every direction, and what served to ensure the victory of the citizens, the cannon planted on Reginald's Tower, after many days hard firing, beat in the side of one of the ships, wlien the entire crew perished. The enemy.

    32 HISTORICAL SKETCH.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 14

19. Conspiracy overheard in a Johnstown public-house

    near Johnstown · street · Waterford · 1798

    The rebellion conspiracy in Waterford city was first discovered by a person who overheard conspirators plotting through a thin partition in a public-house at Johnstown.

    Read the passage

    The conspiracy was first discovered by a person who happened to be in a public-house at Johnstown, where, through a thin partition, he overheard a number of conspirators conferring in the next room on the plot which was to be carried into execution on the eruption of the rebellion. The principal persons concerned were, Bohan, a baker, (leader;) Sargent, a publican; a person of the name of Quinn; and Carey, a stone-cutter. Sargent, who kept a public-house in Waterford, where the officers of the yeomanry corps used to sup, had conspired to put them to death. With this object, he signified his intention of giving a farewell supper, which would have afforded him an opportunity of securing their arms, and he was then to let in a party of rebels to complete the remainder of the deed. — The case of Quinn was rather remarkable. He had formerly been in the Artillery, and was now a servant to the Dean of Waterford, (Butson,) and in the greatest confidence of his master, insomuch that he was entrusted with the care of one of the cannon to defend the bridge at Waterford. He was in the habit of holding nightly meetings with the disaffected in the extensive vaults adjoining the deanery, where each communicated such information as had come to his knowledge in the course of the day. Sargent and Quinn were both apprehended, and found guilty of conspiracy; but, througli the intercession of friends, they were

    102 HISTORICAL SKETCH.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 47

20. Cromwell lands at Dublin and begins Irish campaign, 1649

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1649

    Cromwell embarked with an army of 8000 foot and 4000 horse and landed at Dublin on 15 August 1649, beginning a campaign marked by vigour and cruelty that terrified his opponents.

    Read the passage

    The parliament of England having unanimously resolved to send a powerful force to repress the disturbances of this country, Cromwell thought it not unworthy of his talents to engage in the conduct of the war, and, after considerable preparation, embarked with an army of 8000 foot and 4000 horse, and landed at Dublin on the 1 5th of August, 1649. The early part of his career was distinguished by vigour and cruelty, qualities which made a deep impression upon his enemies, and gave facility to his subsequent attempts. The terror of his name advanced before him, and so intimidated his opponents, that they were with difficulty persuaded to make preparations for defence. Ormond endeavoured to arouse them to a sense of duty, and offered to send troops to defend the garrison-towns ; but Waterford peremptorily refused to receive any assistance, or to obey the orders of the royalist party. The town of Drogheda, the first of Cromwell's conquests, was taken by storm, and the inhabitants massacred in cold blood : Wexford shared the same fate, and from thence a detachment, under General Ireton,

    70 HISTORICAL SKETCH.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 33

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Dublin, the city where Cromwell began his Irish campaign. The parliament of England had resolved to send a powerful force to repress the disturbances in this country, and Cromwell took command himself. He landed here on 15 August 1649 with an army of 8000 foot and 4000 horse. His early progress was marked by vigour and cruelty, qualities that made a deep impression on his enemies and eased his subsequent attempts. The terror of his name went before him, intimidating his opponents so much they were barely persuaded to prepare defences. Ormond tried to rally them and offered troops for the garrison-towns, but Waterford flatly refused any assistance or royalist orders. Drogheda was the first of Cromwell's conquests, taken by storm with its inhabitants massacred in cold blood. Wexford met the same fate, and from there a detachment under General Ireton went on.

21. Cromwell's crossing of the Mahon at Kilmacthomas, 1649

    Kilmacthomas · town · Waterford · 1649

    In 1649, after raising the siege of Waterford, Cromwell passed through Kilmacthomas on his way to Dungarvan; the river Mahon had risen so high that it took an entire day to send his foot soldiers across.

    Read the passage

    Kilmacthomas, situated on the road leading from Waterford to Dungarvan and Cork, is built on a steep and dangerous hill, at the foot of which flows the river Mahon. It would appear that this little river was formerly subject to greater floods than have been observed here for many years. In 1649, Cromwell having raised the siege of Waterford, and passing through Kihnacthomas on his way to Dungarvan, the Mahon had risen to such a height, that an entire day was consumed in sending the foot across the river. There is now a handsome stone bridge here. At this place was an ancient castle, which belonged to the Le Poer family, in whose descendants the principal property in the neighbourhood is still vested.

    On the sea coast, at the distance of six miles from Kilmacthomas, is the village of Stradbally, consisting of one long and irregularly built street.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 128

22. Henry II lands at Waterford

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1171

    Henry II landed at Waterford with an army in October 1171, having been preceded by Strongbow's conquest of the city. He entered as sovereign rather than conqueror, the city offering little resistance.

    Read the passage

    Henry II. with an army consisting of 500 knights, and about 4000 soldiers, landed at Waterford on the 18th of October, 1171. The city had been previously subdued by Richard De Clare, Earl of Pembroke, usually called Strongbow, and offered little resistance to the royal invader. It is said, that an Ostman Lord endeavoured to impede the disembarkation, and for this purpose drew chains across the harbour ; but the obstacle was speedily overcome, and Henry entered Waterford, not as a conqueror, but as the rightful sovereign of the country.

    Strongbow had been united in marriage to Eva, daughter of the King of Leinster; their marriage was celebrated here in the preceding year, and served to confirm the acquisitions, which this warlike nobleman had previously made. But these conquests could be retained no longer; they had already excited the jealousy of the monarch, and it was now necessary to surrender them into his hands. Upon the arrival of the sovereign within the walls of his newly acquired city, Waterford was formally surrendered to him by the Earl of Pembroke, who was contented to retain his other possessions, as a vassal and subject.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 4

23. Leprosy tradition linked to salmon and cider of Lismore

    Lismore · townland · Waterford · 1200–1216

    Tradition held that the king's sons, while staying at Lismore, fed so heavily on the fine salmon and cider of that place that eruptions supposed to be leprosy broke out on their bodies, prompting the founding of the Leper Hospital.

    Read the passage

    tributed to the following circumstance: — Theking's sons, during the time they remained at Lismore, were so feasted with the fine salmon and cider of that place, that they lived almost entirely on them, which caused eruptions to break out on their bodies, supposed to be the leprosy; of which the king being informed founded the Hospital for persons labouring under leperous complaints, and granted a charter of incorporation by the name of the Master, Brethren, and Sisters of the Leper House of St. Stephen's, in the city of Waterford. He also granted the Corporation a Seal, which the master of the hospital holds, and with which he seals the leases of the lands, &c. of the hospital, which leases he is empowered to make, with the consent of the brethren and sisters of the hospital.

    The King endowed the hospital with the Leper House, and several other holdings in St. Stephen's parish, and with the oblations, obventions, offerings, &c. of the said parish. Also with lands at Poleberry, without John's-gate, (which gate was formerly considered the boundary of the hospital,) and also the lands of Leperstown, in the barony of Gaultier.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 83

24. Lismore as Seat of Learning and Birthplace of Notable Men

    Lismore · townland · Waterford

    Lismore was formerly one of the most flourishing cities in Ireland, a seat of science and learning, and the birthplace of Congreve, Boyle, and Henry Eeles. It is believed to be the school from which Alfred derived his renowned knowledge.

    Read the passage

    ing cities in Ireland, the seat of science and learning-, the birth-place of Congreve, Boyle, and the ingenious Henry Eeles, and the school from which, it is believed, Alfred derived the knowledge which has since immortalized his name. In the year 636 Lismore was a bishop's see, and had a famous school of philosophy established by St. Carthagh, who, in the holy days of Easter, was driven out of Rathenin in the county of Westmeath, and took sanctuary here. An old writer thus describes this place: " Lessmor is a famous and holy city, half of which is an asylum, into which no woman dares enter ; but it is full of cells and holy monasteries ; and religious men in great numbers abide there : and thither holy men flock together from all parts of Ireland ; and not only from Ireland, but also from England and Britain, being desirous to remove from thence to Christ." The school of Lismore continued in high repute for many years, and was visited by '* prodigious numbers both from the neighbouring and remote countries." Many of the bishops of this see were men remarkable for religious austerity, as well as for learning and sanctity, and it was through their influence that the rigid discipline of the monastic orders was observed. The rules of the abbey of regular canons founded by St. Carthagh were particularly severe. When any of the monks returned from a mission, it was the custom to kneel down before the abbot, and in that humble posture relate the events which had occurred : all

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 144

25. Whipping of a Right Boy at Carrick-on-Suir

    Carrick-on-Suir · town · Tipperary

    A member of the Right Boys, an agrarian secret society, was condemned to be whipped at Carrick-on-Suir; no one would carry out the sentence despite a reward, forcing the sheriff of Waterford to perform the punishment himself before an enraged mob.

    Read the passage

    gents called " Right Boys," who resembled them in every respect, except in the title which they assumed. They bound themselves by oath to assist each other, and so strictly did they adhere to this obligation, that one of them being condemned to be whipped at Carrick-on-Suir, the then sheriff of Waterford could not procure a person to execute the sentence of the law, though he offered a large sum of money for that purpose ; but was actually obliged to perform the duty himself in the presence of an enraged mob.

    A circumstance occurred in the year 1767, which it may be proper to notice, as showing the good feeling which was beginning to subsist between the Roman Catholics of Ireland and the royal family of England. On the 20th of December of this year, prayers were publicly read in the Roman Catholic chapels of Waterford, and in the other chapels throughout Ireland, for King George III. and all the royal family, being the first time the royal family of England had been prayed for in this public manner by the Roman Catholics of Ireland since the Revolution.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 42

26. Fortifications and siege defences of Donlsle Castle

    Dunhill · townland · Waterford

    The castle of Donlsle was defended by a strong wall, deep fosse, portcullis gate, and a trap-door over the entrance passage from which defenders poured stones and boiling water on attackers. The castle suffered from gunpowder assault, though its square tower remains remarkably intact.

    Read the passage

    court-yard of about fifty yards square: the mason work of the wall can still be traced through its whole course. After entering the court-yard, the passage to the castle was ascended by a steep flight of stone steps, which led to a gate defended by a portcullis; the arch of the gate, and the groove of the portcullis, being still discernible. You then enter into a small court-yard, which appears to have contained several out-offices belonging to the castle, and turning to the left hand into a still smaller inclosure, of about twelve feet square, the door of the castle is at length seen. All the various approaches already mentioned are carefully defended by loop-holes and embrasures ; and on entering the castle itself, the usual square trap-door is observed over the passage, which gave the last opportunity of defence to the besieged, and from which, in the obstinacy of despair, they poured down on the assailants large stones, boiling water, or any other means of annoyance which the danger might suggest. The walls of the castle are still perfectly upright, not having yielded in the least to the encroachments of time : the castle, however, evidently suffered considerably from the violence of man, having been subjected to the force of gunpowder; but the square tower which crowns the summit, and which now can only be ascended by a ladder, the stairs having been designedly destroyed, is as perfect as if erected witliin these few years. The

    2G2 Toroc.iiAPiiY and antiquities.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 111

27. Siege of Waterford and the flooding of Kilbarry ponds

    Kilbarry · townland · Waterford · 1497

    During the 1497 siege, to prevent the junction of enemy land and sea forces near Lumbard's marsh, the besieged citizens kept the ponds of Kilbarry full and raised a large mound of earth to stop the river flowing from Kilbarry into the Suir.

    Read the passage

    To prevent the junction of these two divisions, the ponds of Kilbarry were kept full, the besieged having raised a large mound of earth to stop the course of the river, which flows from Kilbarry into the Suir. The necessary preparations being completed, the siege was vigorously commenced and carried on, for eleven days, with great zeal and activity. In the many skirmishes and sorties which took place, the citizens were generally victorious, and routed or captured their opponents. In the field, the citizens covered themselves with glory ; but it is to be regretted that after the fight, their valiant hearts had no touch of pity ; on one occasion when, after a successful sortie in which they committed great slaughter, they returned to the city with a numerous band of prisoners, they carried them to the market-place, chopped ofl" their heads, and fastened them on stakes, as trophies of their victory. Their valour and the dread of their cruelty could no longer be resisted ; the besieged became the assailants ; the enemy were repulsed in every direction, and what served to ensure the victory of the citizens, the cannon planted on Reginald's Tower, after many days hard firing, beat in the side of one of the ships, wlien the entire crew perished. The enemy.

    32 HISTORICAL SKETCH.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 14

28. Aylward family of Faithlegg spared by Cromwell

    Faithlegg · street · Waterford · 1649

    The Aylward family, settled at the castle and estate of Faithlegg near Passage, were known to Cromwell from London; though Roman Catholic and hostile to parliamentary forces, Cromwell sought to secure John Aylward in his property by asking him to conceal his faith.

    Read the passage

    A family, named Ay 1 ward, whose ancestors had been brought over by King John, was settled in the castle and estate of Fatlock, a beautifully situated place in the neighbourhood of Passage. The proprietor at that time, John Aylward, had been known to Cromwell in London, who now, in remembrance of former friendship, sought to secure him in his property. Cromwell was aware that his friend was a Roman Catholic, and that he was hostile to the parliamentary forces, and he had resolved that such should be dispossessed ; — but, in this particular instance, he relaxed from his usual severity, and required, what to him appeared easy of attainment, that Aylward should conceal his faith, and appear to unite in principle with himself The inducements were almost irresistible— there was some little balancing between religion and property; but, at length, partly by the advice of his wife, the better cause

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 34

29. Blacksmith 'Bold Heart' celebrates the Battle of the Boyne in Waterford

    Waterford · city · Waterford

    A Waterford blacksmith celebrated the anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne with great enthusiasm, firing a makeshift gun barrel and decorating himself with orange lilies, earning the mob's nickname 'Bold Heart'.

    Read the passage

    A curious circumstance connected with the celebration of the battle of the Boyne, occurred in the city of Waterford. A miserable man, a blacksmith, who had probably heard from his parents the principal events of the day, made it a point to celebrate the anniversary with the utmost enthusiasm. The day was ushered in by innumerable explosions from a rusty piece of iron twisted into the shape of a gun barrel. Orange lilies in merciless profusion, tied up with what was intended to represent purple ribands, decorated the scene, when the officiating minister, who concealed his sooty dress beneath a white under-garment, received the congratulations of his friends!

    From the eccentricity of his manner, the mob honoured him with the title of Bold Heart, under which name he defied the world. In general, the silly parade was beneath the notice of the people;

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 45

30. Castle of Donlsle overlooking a ravine

    Dunhill · townland · Waterford · 1346

    The ruined castle of Donlsle (Donhill), an ancient seat of the Le Poer family, stands on a rock nearly detached from a range of hills above a ravine, with a square tower of great elevation crossed by an antique bridge below. The Le Poer family, ancestors of the Marquis of Waterford, held distinguished rank in the county from at least 1346.

    Read the passage

    Having descended from the main road, through a i)lantation of -flourishing trees, the castle, a square tower of great elevation, is seen, overhanging a river, here crossed by an antique bridge. In ancient times, it was the property of the family of Le Poer, from whom the present Marquis of Waterford is descended. So far back as 1346, this family held a distinguished rank in this county : in that year John Le Poer, and others of the same name, gave security to the Lord Justice Birmingham, at Waterford, for themselves and all others of their name in the counties of Waterford and Tipperary, for their peaceable behaviour to the king and his ministers.

    The castle of Donlsle might be considered inaccessible on two sides ; and where it was liable to be approached, its defences appear to have possessed a considerable degree of artificial strength.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 110

31. Fatal food riot in Waterford, 1744

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1744

    A riotous meeting of the mob occurred in Waterford in 1744 during the mayoralty of Beverley Usher, occasioned by scarcity of provisions; the military were called out and several lives were lost.

    Read the passage

    In 1732 there was a tumultuous assemblage in Waterford, the object of which was to prevent the exportation of corn. There was another riotous meeting of the mob in Waterford in 1744, when Mr. Beverley Usher was mayor: the military were called out, and several lives were lost. — Both these riots were occasioned by a scarcity of provisions. Some years afterwards corn was in abundance ; but, as happened on a recent occasion when England extended a fostering hand to her brothers in Ireland, the inhabitants of Waterford and other towns were literally starving in the midst of plenty.

    Such being the state of Waterford, at the periods alluded to, it was not to be expected that the people would remain totally passive spectators of the numerous illegal assemblies which were forming around them.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 41

32. Leper Hospital of St Stephen's founded by King John

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1200–1216

    The Leper Hospital in Waterford was founded by King John in the early thirteenth century, incorporated as the Master, Brethren, and Sisters of the Leper House of St. Stephen's, and endowed with lands including at Poleberry and Leperstown.

    Read the passage

    tributed to the following circumstance: — Theking's sons, during the time they remained at Lismore, were so feasted with the fine salmon and cider of that place, that they lived almost entirely on them, which caused eruptions to break out on their bodies, supposed to be the leprosy; of which the king being informed founded the Hospital for persons labouring under leperous complaints, and granted a charter of incorporation by the name of the Master, Brethren, and Sisters of the Leper House of St. Stephen's, in the city of Waterford. He also granted the Corporation a Seal, which the master of the hospital holds, and with which he seals the leases of the lands, &c. of the hospital, which leases he is empowered to make, with the consent of the brethren and sisters of the hospital.

    The King endowed the hospital with the Leper House, and several other holdings in St. Stephen's parish, and with the oblations, obventions, offerings, &c. of the said parish. Also with lands at Poleberry, without John's-gate, (which gate was formerly considered the boundary of the hospital,) and also the lands of Leperstown, in the barony of Gaultier.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 83

33. Mayor John Butler defies Earl of Kildare's demand

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1487

    The Earl of Kildare demanded that Waterford's mayor, John Butler, proclaim Lambert Simnel as king and assist him with forces. The mayor refused, calling those who crowned the impostor rebels to the rightful king of England.

    Read the passage

    When the factious Irish, under the influence of the Earl of Kildare, had acknowledged the claims of the impostor, and admitted the evidence of his birth, their next step was to endeavour to compel the inhabitants of other towns to unite with them in the revolt. The citizens of Waterford were peremptorily required to proclaim the new king, and, by a letter transmitted to John Butler, then mayor, were commanded to receive and assist him with all the forces of the city. The conduct of the mayor was eminently dignified, and marked with the most minute attention to the best precedents of civic etiquette: he answered, that he would send a written reply by a messenger of his own, and afterwards informed the Earl of Kildare that the citizens of Waterford considered all those rebels to the rightful king of England, who proclaimed and crowned the impostor Lambert. — The Earl, not admiring the answer of the mayor, commanded that his messenger should be hanged; and not wishing to be outdone in dignity or

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 10

34. Mining history of Bonmahon under Lord Ranelagh and Mr. Wyse

    Bunmahon · population centre · Waterford · 1745–1811

    In 1745 a company rented the Bonmahon mines from Lord Ranelagh for thirty-one years, producing copper and lead ore, but mismanagement led to abandonment; Mr. Wyse later worked the mines with three hundred men, and in 1811 Lord Ormond attempted renewal at considerable expense.

    Read the passage

    observations are offered, with the hope of arousing public attention to the subject. It appears from a manuscript of the Bishop of Clogher, in the college library, that valuable mines were known to be in this neighbourhood, at a very early period: the situation of Knockdry and Powers-country, in which places, silver and lead were said to be found, cannot now be exactly ascertained ; but it seems probable that the latter place was somewhere near Bonmahon or Annstown, where the representative of the family of Power formerly resided. The mines of Bonmahon, under which denomination are included the mines in the vicinity, produce copper, lead and silver ; veins have already been opened in many places, and worked to a considerable extent. In the year 1745, a company rented these mines from Lord Ranelagh, for a term of thirty-one years, under an agreement to render to his Lordship one eighth part of all the ore obtained. The works were carried on for eight or ten years with great spirit and tolerable success; but a want of union among the members of the company, injudicious arrangements, and, above all, unfaithful managers, checked the progress of the undertaking and it was at length abandoned. One hundred and thirty tons of copper and thirty-five tons of lead ore, are mentioned in an old document as having been raised in a few months.

    Mr. Wysc subsequently worked these mines

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 116

35. Ormond's Defence Near Waterford City

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1649

    The Marquis of Ormond, refused entry into Waterford by suspicious citizens, positioned his fifty horse to cover the retreat of the governor's foot soldiers being pursued by Cromwell's dragoons.

    Read the passage

    for their support; and understanding that an attack on Passage was meditated, he waited to know the result. On the governor's troops leaving the city, Cromwell dispatched a strong force to attack them, and their danger being immediately perceived, Ormond requested permission to bring over a body of horse to their assistance ; but the citizens refused the offer, and preferred leaving the soldiers to their fate. Thus repulsed, the gallant marquis advanced at the head of his fifty horse and met the governor's foot soldiers in full retreat, closely followed by Cromwell's dragoons. He posted himself in an advantageous position, and by his courage and a judicious arrangement of his force, checked the farther advance of the enemy, and covered the retreat into the town. The necessity of retaking Passage, and the importance attached to it by the enemy, being thus evident, the Marquis of Ormond proposed to transport his troops over the river, and undertook to quarter them in huts under the walls, that they might not be burdensome to the city : this proposal was also rejected, and it was even in agitation to seize his person and treat his followers as enemies. Irritated at their obstinacy and ingratitude, the marquis withdrew his army, leaving the citizens to protect themselves. Thus left to their own resources, and vigorously assailed by the impatient Cromwell, the courage of the citizens was now beginning to yield ; they declared, that unless they received a reinforce-

    HISTORICAL SKETCH. /O

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 35

36. Rian Bo Padriuc: St Patrick's Cow trench legend

    Tourin · townland · Waterford

    A large double trench called Rian Bo Padriuc, or the trench of St Patrick's Cow, runs from Knockmealdown through the Deer Park of Lismore, across the Blackwater near Tourin, to Ardmore, with traditions disputing whether it was made by the cow searching for her stolen calf or fleeing thieves.

    Read the passage

    Amongst the traditional wonders of this part of the county, it may not be amiss to mention, without demanding a too implicit credence to the minuter circumstances connected with the narrative, two remarkable works of which the traces are still discernible. The first is a large double trench, called, in Irish, Rian Bo Padriuc, or the trench of St. Patrick's Cow. This road or trench commences eastward of Knockmeledown, passes through the Deer Park of Lismore, and, crossing the Blackwater near Tourin, where the remains of laborious workmanship may still be seen, proceeds in a direct line to Ardmore. — There is an unfortunate discrepancy in the traditions concerning this curious trench ; some asserting that it was the work of St. Patrick's cow, on her way to Ardmore, in search of her calf which had been stolen, while others are more inclined to believe that the cow had been carried

    356 TOPOGUAPIIV AND ANTIQUITIES.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 154

37. St. Carthagh Founds the Bishop's See and School at Lismore

    Lismore · townland · Waterford · 636

    In 636 Lismore became a bishop's see with a famous school of philosophy established by St. Carthagh, who had been driven out of Rathenin in Westmeath and took sanctuary at Lismore. An old writer describes it as a holy city full of cells and monasteries visited by religious men from Ireland, England and Britain.

    Read the passage

    ing cities in Ireland, the seat of science and learning-, the birth-place of Congreve, Boyle, and the ingenious Henry Eeles, and the school from which, it is believed, Alfred derived the knowledge which has since immortalized his name. In the year 636 Lismore was a bishop's see, and had a famous school of philosophy established by St. Carthagh, who, in the holy days of Easter, was driven out of Rathenin in the county of Westmeath, and took sanctuary here. An old writer thus describes this place: " Lessmor is a famous and holy city, half of which is an asylum, into which no woman dares enter ; but it is full of cells and holy monasteries ; and religious men in great numbers abide there : and thither holy men flock together from all parts of Ireland ; and not only from Ireland, but also from England and Britain, being desirous to remove from thence to Christ." The school of Lismore continued in high repute for many years, and was visited by '* prodigious numbers both from the neighbouring and remote countries." Many of the bishops of this see were men remarkable for religious austerity, as well as for learning and sanctity, and it was through their influence that the rigid discipline of the monastic orders was observed. The rules of the abbey of regular canons founded by St. Carthagh were particularly severe. When any of the monks returned from a mission, it was the custom to kneel down before the abbot, and in that humble posture relate the events which had occurred : all

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 144

38. The famous Waterford rug and the Paris Garden bear-baiting anecdote

    Waterford · city · Waterford

    Waterford was renowned for producing the finest rug (woolen cloth) in Ireland, illustrated by an anecdote of a man wearing a Waterford rug in London being mistaken for a bear by mastiffs at Paris Garden.

    Read the passage

    cheerfull in the interteinment of strangers, hartie one to another, nothing given to factions. They loue no idle benchwhistlers nor lurkish faitors : for yoong and old are wholie addicted to thriuing, the men commonlie to traffike, the women to spinning and carding. As they distill the best aqua vitee, so they spin the choicest rug in Ireland."

    It would be presumptuous to institute a comparison between the citizens of the present and of ancient times ; it may however be remarked, that if the moderns have degenerated, they are happy in having pure and exalted models to lead them back into the path of honour. The aqua vitae remains in abundance, but the choice rug is gone ; whether its loss should be regretted, we may learn from the following anecdote, related by the same ancient author: — "A freend of mine being of late demurrant in London, and the weather by reason of a hard hoare frost being somewhat nipping, repaired to Paris garden, clad in one of these Waterford rugs. The mastifs had no sooner espied him, but deeming he had beene a beare, would faine haue baited him. And were it not that the dogs were partlie muzzled, and partlie chained, he doubted not, but that he should haue beene well tugd in this Irish rug ; whereupon he solemnlie vowed never to see beare baiting in anic such w(^ed."

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 23

39. The Sixteenth-Century Castle on Little Island

    Little Island · townland · Waterford · 1500–1599

    A square battlemented castle on Little Island, believed built in the sixteenth century, was designed for defence with a projecting window over the door and an aperture for pouring molten lead and boiling oil upon attackers; a carved human face and defaced escutcheon remain in its walls.

    Read the passage

    farm-house is attached: the natural beauties of the place are heightened by an improved and thickly-planted neighbourhood. The castle, a square building, with lofty battlements, evidently intended as a place of strength, is still in tolerable preservation : it is supposed to have been erected in the sixteenth century, and was for many years occupied by the proprietors of the adjacent lands. The external appearance of this building denotes the unsettled state of the times when it was first inhabited. The principal, and indeed the only entrance, a small gothic door-way, is defended by a projecting window, which commands the approach, and is, at the same time, protected by a sloping battlement against remote assailants: there is an aperture in the stone-work, through which molten lead, boiling oil, and the various warlike missiles of the time were wont to be cast upon the heads of the hapless invaders. A human face rudely cut in stone, and an almost defaced escutcheon, are inserted in the wall at a few feet from the door-frame. Narrow windows and loop holes, at regular distances, afford a faint light to a flight of stone steps, which, winding through the massy walls, conduct to the summit of the building; from this place the view is singularly grand and extensive. This castle has, at different times, been fitted up as a place of residence, and it is said to be the intention of the present proprietor of the soil, John Fitzgerald, Es(|. to reptiir

    <i2

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 98

40. Ardmore founded as episcopal see by St. Declan

    Ardmore · town · Waterford · 402–550

    The parish of Ardmore was anciently an episcopal see established in the fifth century by St. Declan, friend and companion of St. Patrick, who returned from Rome around 402 to found an abbey and become Bishop of Ardmore.

    Read the passage

    which time he founded an abbey and was made Bishop of Ardmore ; he lived to a great age ; and his successor, St. Ultan, was alive in the year 550. A stone, a holy well, and a dormitory in the churchyard still bear the name of St. Declan. " St. Declan's stone" is on the beach; it is a large rock, resting on two others which elevate it a little above the ground. On the 24th of July, the festival of the saint, numbers of the lowest class do penance on their bare knees around the stone, and some, with great pain and difficulty, creep under it, in expectation of thereby curing or preventing, what it is much more likely to create, rheumatic affections of the back. In the churchyard is the " dormitory of St. Declan," a small low building, held in great veneration by the people in the neighbourhood, who frequently visit it in order to procure some of the earth, which is supposed to cover the relics of the saint. This edifice, which is extremely plain in appearance, was repaired and roofed about a century ago, at the expense of Bishop Milles. " St. Declan's Well" is near the ruins of the church, at some little distance from the village.

    The principal object of interest at Ardmore is the round tower, that opprobrium of antiquaries about which so many conflicting opinions have been advanced, and concerning which nothing has been satisfactorily proved, except the almost total ignorance which exists touching the origin and object of these buildings. The arguments of

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 140

41. Construction of the Great Pier and Breakwater at Dunmore

    Dunmore East · town · Waterford

    A massive mole and breakwater were built at Dunmore, extending 800 feet into the sea to shelter mail packets from violent waves driven by south and west winds; the work was largely accomplished underwater using diving bells operated by untaught local peasants who became skilled engineers.

    Read the passage

    Under the superintendence of skilful engineers, the workmen (untaught peasants) soon learned to move vast rocks with admirable dexterity: few

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 100

42. Cromwell's Siege of Waterford Raised

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1649

    Disheartened by illness among his troops and the difficulties of a winter campaign, Cromwell was forced to raise the siege of Waterford and retreat toward Munster towns that had already surrendered.

    Read the passage

    At this critical moment Ormond proposed to pass some of his troops across the river and attack the rear of the retreating enemy, but the obstinacy of the citizens returned with their hopes of safety, and they refused to supply boats or to admit his soldiers into the city, until the favourable opportunity was lost. Being thus obliged to raise the siege of Waterford, Cromwell resolved to direct his course to the towns of Munster which had revolted to the English parliament, and which now offered a secure asylum to his harassed and distempered forces.

    His route lay through the extreme length of the county of Waterford, and, as on former occasions, his progress was distinctly marked by confiscation and blood. About the latter end of

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 35

43. Franciscan Friary of Carrickbeg Founded 1336

    Carrickbeg · townland · Waterford · 1336

    In Carrickbeg, formerly Carrick-mac-Griffin, the ruins survive of a monastery for Minorites founded in 1336 by James, Earl of Ormond. The friary's church and steeple remain, the steeple in almost perfect preservation.

    Read the passage

    In Carrickbeg, formerly called Carrick-mac-Griffin, and Little Carig, being part of the suburbs of the town of Carrick on Suir, are the ruins of a monastery for Minorites founded in the year 1336, by James, Earl of Ormond.

    The list of the inmates of this building is only worthy of notice as containing the name of John Clyn, author of a celebrated chronicle yet extant. Friar John Clyn was translated from the Franciscan Friary of Kilkenny to this monastery, of which he was appointed the first warden : he died of the plague, in 1349.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 122

44. Hammermen extort quarterage from Catholic tradesmen

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1704

    Protestant tradesmen of Waterford, known as Hammermen, paraded through the city during Assizes demanding payment of quarterage from Roman Catholic shopkeepers. Refusal was punished by nailing up the doors and windows of the offender's house.

    Read the passage

    During the Assizes, the company of Hammermen paraded through every part of the town, demanding the payment of quarterage from Roman Catholic shopkeepers; and in case of refusal, they signified their displeasure by nailing up the doors and windows of the house belonging to the party so refusing. The following is a copy of a receipt given by the master of the company, as a discharge for one of their illegal demands.

    " Memorandum. — It was covenanted by the major part of the company, and likewise entered in the books, that Mr. Paule Keaton should be exempted from paying quarteridge for two years from the date underwritten, he paying forty shillings, which sum he has paid, as witness my hand this 15 day of June, 1704.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 41

45. Heralds mistreated in Waterford proclaiming the 1646 cessation

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1646

    Heralds sent from Dublin to proclaim the 1646 cessation of hostilities were treated with indignity by the citizens of Waterford, unable even to find the mayor's house until a boy was bribed to show them, and left after ten fruitless days.

    Read the passage

    This measure was violently opposed by the citizens of Waterford, who imagined that the interests of their religion would be compromised by their adoption of the treaty. The heralds sent from Dublin to proclaim the peace, were treated with every indignity : they were unable to discover the mayor's house, until they prevailed on a little boy, by a bribe of sixpence, to shew it to them, and after a fruitless delay of ten days, they were obliged to retire from Waterford without accomplishing their errand.

    The violent commotions which at this time agitated England, had produced, or rather called into action, the extraordinary talents of Oliver

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 32

46. Landing of the O'Driscolls and Powers at Tramore

    Tramore · town · Waterford

    The O'Driscolls and Powers, hereditary enemies of the city, landed at Tramore before advancing to be met in battle by the mayor and citizens of Waterford.

    Read the passage

    colls and Powers. The latter, hereditary enemies of Waterford, having landed at Tramorc, the mayor and citizens advanced, in warlike manner, to give them battle. The contending parties met at Ballymacdane, when the invaders were entirely overthrown, 160 of them slain, and many of them taken prisoners. Among the captives were 0-Hedriscoll-Oge and six of his sons, who, with three of their gallics, were carried in triumph into Waterford. It is, probably, in memory of this victory, that three gallies are quartered in the arms of the city.

    In the statutes of Edward IV. there are many curious enactments, illustrative of the manners and opinions of the times, which assist in filling up the chasms occasioned by the scantiness of our historical records. The ministers and nobles were strictly prohibited leaving the country; it was even doubted whether they might go coastwise from one part of the kingdom to another ; and though the latter restriction was abolished by a subsequent statute, yet we may perceive with what anxiety the evils of non-residence were guarded against.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 9

47. Lismore Cathedral Spared from Fire during 1173 Plundering

    Lismore · townland · Waterford · 1173

    In 1173, when Raymond and Earl Richard wasted and plundered the Decies, the plunderers extorted a large sum of money from the prelate to prevent the cathedral from being burned, though shortly after an accidental fire consumed Lismore.

    Read the passage

    tion to preserve the church; and particularly in the year 1173, when Raymond and Earl Richard wasted and plundered the Decies, the plunderers extorted a large sum of money from the prelate who then governed the see, to prevent the cathedral from being burned. However, shortly after, an accidental fire wholly consumed Lismore, and involved almost all the churches in the ruin.

    The cathedral was again repaired, and plundered, at various times ; and, at length, in the rebellion of Munster, was almost totally demolished by Edmund Fitzgibbon, called the White Knight, in which state it continued until it was re-edified in 1633, at the expense of the Earl of Cork. The cathedral of Lismore was originally constructed in the Saxon style; the windows were narrow, terminated with circular arches, each surmounted with a small window in shape like a circle. These round windows were also over the entrance, and at the extremities of the transepts. This style of architecture, which was generally used in our very ancient buildings, and which is, of itself, strongly indicative of antiquity, has, with singularly bad taste, been replaced by the florid Gothic, which, though beautiful, does not harmonize with the general appearance of the place. The alterations and repairs which were commenced about ten years since, have as yet only advanced to the completion of one transept and the exterior entrance, giving a most incou-

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 145

48. Ostman Lord's Chain Across the Suir at Henry II's Landing

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1170–1172

    When Henry II prepared to land his forces at Waterford, the only opposition came from an Ostman lord who attempted to block his disembarkation by stretching a chain across the river.

    Read the passage

    When Henry II. was preparing to land his forces, the only opposition he experienced was from an Ostman Lord, who vainly attempted to impede the disembarkation by drawing a chain across the river. — Passing the bounds of the city and following the course of the Suir, as it descends towards the sea, the first object which deserves attention is the Little Island — a portion of land which appears to have been originally connected with the county of Kilkenny, and afterwards insulated by the waters of the Suir partially effecting a shorter course.

    This conjecture is strengthened by the discovery of a large tree, which, with its root and branches, was found at the depth of some feet beneath the bed of the river at this place.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 97

49. Perkin Warbeck lands at Cork and marches on Waterford

    Passage East · townland · Waterford · 1497

    In 1497 Perkin Warbeck and Maurice Earl of Desmond, with an army of 2400 men, landed at Cork and advanced on Waterford, preparing on 23 July to besiege the western division of the city while a fleet of eleven ships arrived at Passage.

    Read the passage

    In the year 1497, it was again the good fortune of the citizens of Waterford to manifest their loyalty to the king ; for which, among other honours, they received the following motto — " Intacta manet Waterfordia." On this occasion, they communicated to his majesty the intelligence of the arrival of Perkin Warbeck at Cork, and assured him of their loyalty and affection. An opportunity was now afforded them to prove the sincerity of their professions and the extent of their devotion, for immediately on his landing, the whole strength of the rebel force was directed against Waterford. Perkin Warbeck and Maurice Earl of Desmond, with an army of 2400 men, advanced to the city, and on the 23d of July prepared to invest it: this force was intended to assault the western division, while a fleet of eleven ships, which arrived at Passage, was ordered to

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 13

50. Quinn's nightly rebel meetings in the deanery vaults

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1798

    Quinn, servant to the Dean of Waterford and entrusted with defending the bridge cannon, held nightly meetings with the disaffected in the extensive vaults adjoining the deanery, sharing intelligence gathered during the day.

    Read the passage

    The conspiracy was first discovered by a person who happened to be in a public-house at Johnstown, where, through a thin partition, he overheard a number of conspirators conferring in the next room on the plot which was to be carried into execution on the eruption of the rebellion. The principal persons concerned were, Bohan, a baker, (leader;) Sargent, a publican; a person of the name of Quinn; and Carey, a stone-cutter. Sargent, who kept a public-house in Waterford, where the officers of the yeomanry corps used to sup, had conspired to put them to death. With this object, he signified his intention of giving a farewell supper, which would have afforded him an opportunity of securing their arms, and he was then to let in a party of rebels to complete the remainder of the deed. — The case of Quinn was rather remarkable. He had formerly been in the Artillery, and was now a servant to the Dean of Waterford, (Butson,) and in the greatest confidence of his master, insomuch that he was entrusted with the care of one of the cannon to defend the bridge at Waterford. He was in the habit of holding nightly meetings with the disaffected in the extensive vaults adjoining the deanery, where each communicated such information as had come to his knowledge in the course of the day. Sargent and Quinn were both apprehended, and found guilty of conspiracy; but, througli the intercession of friends, they were

    102 HISTORICAL SKETCH.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 47

51. Raleigh granted vast estates near Lismore

    Lismore · townland · Waterford · 1580

    In 1580 Sir Walter Raleigh, then a captain, acted as Commissioner of Munster and resided near Lismore, having received crown grants of 42,000 acres including the barony and castle of Inchiquin and other lands.

    Read the passage

    and was the source of the many gallant actions and hair-breadth escapes, which are so abundantly recorded of him. In the summer of 1580, he acted as a Commissioner of Munster, and resided principally in the neighbourhood of Lismore, where he had, shortly before, received from the crown grants of 42,000 acres of land at a rent of 100 marks sterling a year.

    The lands comprized in the warrant were these : " the barony, castle, and lands of Inchiquin, in Imokilly; the castle and lands of Strancally, Ballynatra, Killnatora, and the lands lying on the rivers Broadwater and Bride, late David Mac Shean Roche's and others, with the decayed town of Tallow ; and the castle and lands of Lisfinny, Mogilla, Killacarow and Shean : and if these were not sufficient, the deficiency was to be made up, out of the castle and lands of Mocollop,the castle and lands of Temple Michael, the lands of Patrick Condon, next adjoining unto the Shean, and of the lands called Ahavena, alias Whitesland." It was directed that these lands should be near to the town of Youghall, where Raleigh afterwards fixed his residence : the house in which he lived still remains, and was for many years preserved in the same state in which it was left by its illustrious occupant. There are recorded of this extraordinary man, numberless brave and adventurous exploits, bearing a strong resemblance to the fictions of romance, yet perfectly according with the ideas which history and the delineation

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 27

52. Soldiers buried in the sand near Tramore

    Tramore · town · Waterford · 1816

    A considerable number of soldiers from the Sea-Horse wreck were interred in the sand a hundred yards from the sea; a planned monument over their remains was never built.

    Read the passage

    A considerable number of soldiers were interred in the sand, at the distance of a hundred yards from the sea : it was in agitation to erect a monument over their remains, but this has not been accomplished.

    The bay of Tramore, justly described in charts as " notorious for shipwrecks," has at length engaged the attention of scientific and practical men ; and through them, of the public bodies, whose duty it is to improve the navigation of our coasts.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 107

53. Surrender of Waterford to General Ireton

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1650

    After a siege begun in June 1650, General Ireton summoned Waterford's garrison to capitulate on 25th July, and the city was surrendered by General Preston on 10th August 1650 under terms preserving the citizens' persons and property.

    Read the passage

    entrusted to General Ireton. Early in June of this year, Waterford was again besieged. On the approach of General Ireton, on whom the chief command devolved after the departure of Cromwell, Preston, the governor of the city, sent to inform the Lord Lieutenant that if supplies were not immediately forwarded to him, he should be compelled to surrender. The siege was not of long continuance ; the garrison were soon reduced to the greatest distress, and must have readily yielded, had they been attacked with vigour, but General Ireton did not summon them to capitulate until the 25th of July, and, after a treaty protracted for a considerable time, the city was surrendered to him by General Preston on the 10th of August, 1650.

    The terms granted to the citizens were favourable; their persons and private property were preserved. The violence of the parliamentary army was chiefly directed against the churches, works of art, and remnants of antiquity; even the tombs of the dead were plundered or mutilated by their savage hands, and in cases where they could not plunder, they were contented to destroy. The city of Waterford was, from this period until the year 1C5G, governed by commissioners appointed by Oliver Cromwell: the accustomed mode of government by mayor and sheriffs was abolished, and in its place was substituted the mere pleasure of the creatures of the

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 38

54. Trial of Caravats and Shanavests at Clonmel, 1811

    Clonmel · town · Tipperary · 1811

    A special commission trial at Clonmel in 1811 examined the origins and rivalry of the Caravat and Shanavest agrarian factions active in Tipperary and Waterford, including the hanging of Hanly for burning a house over a land dispute.

    Read the passage

    Q. Why were they called Caravats? — A. A man of the name of Hanly was hanged : he was prosecuted by the Shanavests, and Pauddeen Car said he would not leave the place of execution till he saw the caravat about the fellow's neck : and from that time they were called Caravats.

    Q. For what offence was Hanly hanged? — A. For burning the house of a man who had taken land over his neighbour's head.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 48

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Clonmel, this was where a special commission sat in 1811 looking into the Caravat and Shanavest factions. At the trial, a man named Hanly was hanged for burning the house of someone who had taken land over his neighbour's head. He was prosecuted by the Shanavests, and Paudkeen Car said he would not leave the place of execution till he saw the caravat about the fellow's neck, and from that they were called Caravats.

55. Wexford shares Drogheda's fate under Cromwell

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1649

    Wexford suffered the same massacre as Drogheda during Cromwell's campaign, after which a detachment under General Ireton was sent against Duncannon fort.

    Read the passage

    The parliament of England having unanimously resolved to send a powerful force to repress the disturbances of this country, Cromwell thought it not unworthy of his talents to engage in the conduct of the war, and, after considerable preparation, embarked with an army of 8000 foot and 4000 horse, and landed at Dublin on the 1 5th of August, 1649. The early part of his career was distinguished by vigour and cruelty, qualities which made a deep impression upon his enemies, and gave facility to his subsequent attempts. The terror of his name advanced before him, and so intimidated his opponents, that they were with difficulty persuaded to make preparations for defence. Ormond endeavoured to arouse them to a sense of duty, and offered to send troops to defend the garrison-towns ; but Waterford peremptorily refused to receive any assistance, or to obey the orders of the royalist party. The town of Drogheda, the first of Cromwell's conquests, was taken by storm, and the inhabitants massacred in cold blood : Wexford shared the same fate, and from thence a detachment, under General Ireton,

    70 HISTORICAL SKETCH.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 33

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up near Wexford now, a town that met the same end as Drogheda in 1649. That August, the English parliament voted to send a powerful force to repress the disturbances in this country. Cromwell decided it was not beneath his talents to lead the war himself. He landed at Dublin on the 15th of August with 8000 foot and 4000 horse. His early campaign was marked by vigour and cruelty, qualities that made a deep impression on his enemies and made his later attempts easier. The terror of his name went before him, intimidating his opponents so thoroughly they could scarcely be persuaded to prepare for defence. Ormond tried to rouse them and offered to send troops to defend the garrison-towns, but Waterford flatly refused any assistance or orders from the royalist party. Drogheda fell first, taken by storm, its inhabitants massacred in cold blood. Wexford shared the same fate. From here, a detachment under General Ireton was then sent against Duncannon fort.

56. Ardmore church ruins with Saxon arch and carved figures

    Ardmore · town · Waterford

    The church built near the Ardmore round tower is largely decayed, but retains a fine Saxon arch dividing chancel from nave and well-carved free-stone figures on the exterior walls depicting scenes from the Old Testament.

    Read the passage

    The church was a magnificent building-, highly decorated with carved work, and still exhibits in its ruins evident traces of former splendour. A fine Saxon arch, which divided the chancel from the nave, still remains, and denotes the order of the architecture as well as the antiquity of the building. On the exterior of the walls, there are some well carved figures cut in free-stone, which, with a good imagination and some knowledge of the ancient scriptures, may be made to exhibit an epitome of the history of the Old Testament. — Very accurate representations of these figures are annexed.

    The ruins of another church are to be seen on the projecting headland, which forms the western termination of the bay. This beautifully situated building, which combines a romantic site with other interesting associations, is in a most ruinous condition, having few traces of ornament or peculiar architecture to illustrate its early history. It is one of those structures which the common people love, probably because it has nothing to recommend it to strangers, and because its very worthlessness has preserved it entirely to themselves : it is remote from any public road or thoroughfare, and seldom visited except by those whom a secret instinct attaches to the place. Still, though fallen and in ruins, this temple is not deserted by the class of persons for whose use it was originally intended : a few fragments of broken arches give note of former magnificence.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 142

57. Edmund Rice's Roman Catholic schools in Waterford

    Waterford · city · Waterford

    Edmund Rice, having acquired an independent fortune, devoted his wealth to erecting and endowing schools for the education of poor Roman Catholic children in Waterford, benefiting nearly nine hundred boys taught gratuitously by devoted teachers.

    Read the passage

    In the schools established by Edmund Rice, Esq. for the education of poor Roman Catholic children, we have a splendid instance of the most exalted generosity. This gentleman having, at an early period of life, acquired an independent fortune by commercial pursuits, withdrew himself from public engagements ; and being strongly impressed with the necessity of giving to the lower orders a religious education, he devoted his time, his talents, and his fortune, to erect and endow schools for their use. Amongst a distressed and unemployed population, whose religious opinions militate against the system of education offered them by their protestant brethren, these scliools have been of incalculable benefit : they have already impressed upon the lower classes a character which hitlierto was unknown to them ; and in the number of intelligent and respectable tradesmen, clerks and servants, which they have

    N 2

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 78

58. Richard II's second landing and Waterford's poverty, 1399

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1399

    Richard II landed again at Waterford on 13 May 1399 and spent six days receiving homage; the citizens at this time were noted to be mean and slovenly, exhibiting poverty and wretchedness in their appearance and dwellings.

    Read the passage

    King Richard again visited Ireland in the year 1399. He embarked at Bristol, and landed at Waterford on the 13th of May. The monarch was welcomed with every demonstration of joy, and spent six days in receiving the deceitful homage of his people. At this time, the citizens were mean and slovenly in their appearance, and exhibited in this respect, as well as in their dwellings, a degree of poverty and wretchedness which we should not have expected to find in so considerable a city.* But Waterford was not singular in this respect. We find even at a later period a remarkable instance of the poverty of larger cities. It was agreed in council, that, as the hall of the Castle of Dublin, and the windows thereof were ruinous, and that there was in the

    * In " King Richard II.'s last voyage to Ireland," a strong instance is given of the wretchedness of the city at that time. " To unland our haggage," the writer remarks (page 50) " they waded up to the waste in ooze. "

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 8

59. Robber's superstitious ritual at Kilbarrymeaden's holy ground

    Kilbarrymeaden · townland · Waterford

    A notorious robber was said to wash his horse's hoofs and legs in the first water he met whenever passing through the sacred lands of Kilbarrymeaden, fearing his haunts would be discovered as punishment for the sacrilege of carrying away holy clay.

    Read the passage

    The parish of Kilbarrymeaden derives its name from a church which was built here by St. Baramedan. The Irish word cill, pronounced kill, signifies a church, abbey or place set apart for religious purposes. The land which belonged to this church has long been highly venerated by the common people, who attribute to it many surprizing qualities. It is said that a notorious robber, whenever he passed through this place, used to wash his horse's hoofs and legs in the first water which he chanced to meet, lest his haunts should be discovered in consequence of his being guilty of sacrilege, in carrying away a portion of the holy clay. There is a "well here, sacred to St. Baramedan, frequently resorted to by pilgrims, who ascribe many virtues to its waters. Murina, a sister of this Saint, and equally esteemed for piety, also resided in this parish. A church, the ruins of which are still discernible, built by her near the sea, gives to the place the name of Kilmurrin. An image of this saint, rudely carved out of a rock, may be seen in a cave near Dunbrattin : the place is often resorted to by the neighbouring people.

    A recent discovery of limestone at Tankardstown, near the sea coast, promises great advantages to the neighbouring country.

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 115

60. Bishop Nathaniel Foy founds Blue School bequest for Waterford

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1707

    Bishop Nathaniel Foy, who died in 1707, bequeathed funds for the improvement of the episcopal house at Waterford and for apprenticing protestant children of the city. His will ultimately established a charity school for the gratuitous education of fifty protestant children.

    Read the passage

    bed is that founded by Bishop Foy, and called the Boijs' Blue School. This noble foundation was the gift of an individual, of whom a brief memoir is subjoined. Nathaniel Foy was born in the city of York, and educated in Trinity College, Dublin, of which university he was elected a fellow. He was next appointed minister of the parish of St. Bridgid, in Dublin, where he first distinguished himself as an able theologian. After the success of King William, he was promoted to the see of Waterford and Lismore, where he continued until his death, which took place on the first of January, 1707. He bequeathed £5 to his kinsman, Thomas France, for preaching his funeral sermon, with this singular condition, that he should speak nothing of his person, good or ill; and he directed that the charge of his funeral should on no account exceed thirty pounds. He left £20 to the poor of the city of Waterford ; to the Blue-coat Hospital in Dublin, £10; and £7 to the churchwardens of the parish of St. Bridgid, to be disposed of in charitable uses.

    He mentions that he had expended £800 in the improvement of the episcopal house at Waterford, and he bequeathed, that whatever should be got out of that sum from his successor should go to the mayor and corporation of Waterford, to be laid out on good security, the yearly profits to be employed in apprenticing out protestant children

    Internet Archive historytopograph00ryla, Chapter 75