Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (vol. 1)

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. Sheriff of Kildare ordered to sell goods of Lackagh prisoners

   Lackagh · parish · Kildare · 1655

   Following petitions, the High Sheriff of Kildare was ordered to sell the seized goods and stock of the Lackagh prisoners for the benefit of the Commonwealth, with some proceeds going to the widows of the murdered men and the remainder distributed among those transported to the Barbadoes.

   Read the passage

   “Upon consideration had of the petition of Margaret ffz Garrett, Henry tfz Garrett, and other Prisoners, committed to tlie Marshall of Dublin for the Murther at Lackagh in the County of Kildare, praying that their stock and goods then seized from them by the Commonwealth might be restored to them ; it is thought lit and ordered that the High Sheriff of the said County of Kildare do forthwith take care that the goods secured upon the apprehension of tlie late prisoners brought from Lackagh aforesaid to Dublin (and formerly belonging to any of tliem and ordered to be inventaried) be appraised and sold for the best advantage of the Commonwealth, and cause the proceeds tliereof to be distributed as followetli, viz — for the satisfaction of the Marshall for diet and fees, and for the fees of the Prisoners that were tried and acquitted by sentence of the Court, and due to the respective officers thereof, in all amounting to the sum of eight pounds. And that then fitting reparation (such as the council shall award) be thereout made and given nnto the widows of the two murthered ])ersons at Lackagh, and the remainder to be sent to the persons that are to be shipped from Passage or Waterford and transported to tbe Parbadoes, to be distributed among them according to right ; and in case there be cause of suspicion that any Estate, or part of Estate, belonging to the said persons is concealed, the said sheriff is to examine the same upon oath, and to take care and use all good ways and means for discovery and securing thereof, and putting the same to sale and disposure abovesaid ; and to certify his proceeding herein unto this Hoard.

   “Dublin Castle, Gth December, 16d5. T. H. C. C.”

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 188

2. St. Patrick's visit and the North Moat fort at Naas

   Naas · town · Kildare

   According to the Tripartite Life, St. Patrick visited Naas and pitched his tent on the green of the fort east of the road, with his well in the north of the fort where he baptised Dubhlang's children. The fort is identified as the North Moat and the green as extending to the South Moat, with a portion still called the Fair-green.

   Read the passage

   tioii to the site of the church. There can be little doubt that it is erected on the spot where tlie great xlpostle of Ireland, St. Patrick himself, proclaimed the tidings of salvation. It is a matter of history that, in the course of his apostolic journeyings, St. Patrick paid more than one visit to Naas. The “ Tripartite Life ” tells that, passing from Meath, he went to Naas. And furtlier (to quote the words of the “ Tripartite Life”), the site of his pupal (or tent) is the green of the/br/^ to tlie east of the road ; and his well is in the north of tlie fort, wliere lie baptised Dubhlang’s two sons, Oillil and Illann, and Oillirs two daughters. All these places may still be traced. The/cr^ (or dun) is the North Moat. The road is the present Mainstreet of Naas. The Green (or faitche) of Naas lies south-east of the dun, extending to the South Moat. The name still survives; a portion of the old Green is still called the “The Fair-green.” Now, the site of St. David’s Church exactly corresponds with that assigned to the puiial or tent of St. Patrick. It is in what was the Green of the Fort, and it is to the east of the road, i.e. the present Main-street of Naas.

   There are strong reasons for believing that a church was erected on this site in very early times, dedicated to St. Patrick ; and in the judgment of Mr. Drew, the ancient baptismal font (of which I shall say more presently) is a relic of the Dominica of Naas, which existed before the present edifice.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 9

   As the companion tells it

   As the road takes you through this town, it passes ground with an old tradition behind it. The Tripartite Life records that St. Patrick, passing from Meath, came here more than once on his apostolic journeys, and there can be little doubt that a church stands on the spot where he proclaimed the tidings of salvation. The same Life says that "the site of his tent is the green of the fort to the east of the road; and his well is in the north of the fort, where he baptised Dubhlang's two sons, Oillil and Illann, and Oillil's two daughters." The fort, or dun, is the North Moat. The road the Tripartite Life speaks of is the present Main Street. The Green lay south-east of the dun, extending to the South Moat. A portion of that old green is still called the Fair-green. The site of St. David's Church corresponds exactly with the place assigned to St. Patrick's tent. It sits in what was the Green of the Fort, east of the road. There are strong reasons to believe a church was erected on this site in very early times, dedicated to St. Patrick. Mr. Drew judged the ancient baptismal font to be a relic of the Dominica of Naas, which existed before the present building.

3. The Pigeon House tower, remnant of the Crouched Friary

   Castledermot · town · Kildare

   The only surviving portion of the Crouched Friary monastery is a square tower standing in a field called the Pigeon House Park, north of the town. It is 39 feet high with 15-foot sides and 3.5 foot thick walls, and an underground chamber nearby was accidentally discovered by a ploughing horse.

   Read the passage

   May 6th — 23rd Elizabeth. This Priory and its appurtenances were granted to Henry Harrington. — “ And. Genl.” He (lied 3rd May, 1612, seized of tliis Hospital and its possessions. — ‘‘ Lib. Inquis. post mort.’’ The only portion of this Monastery now remaining is a square tower, of which Lord W. Fitz- Gerald supplies tlie following particulars : — It stands in a field called the Pigeon House Park, to the north of the town. It is 39 feet high in its present state; the sides measure about 15 feet each side and are 3J feet tliiek. Of the rest of the buildings there is no trace above ground, though extensive foundations are met with under the surface. Some few perches to the north-west of the tower, an underground chamber was accidentally discovered a few 3'ears ago by a horse, when ploughing, ])utting his foot through the vaulted roof; it has not as yet been explored. This tower is locally known as the Pigeon House, from having at some time long since been adapted and used for that purpose. It was, probably, when it was devoted to that use tliat the narrow slit windows were built up, and are now hardly observable on the outside, though deeply splayed witliin. Except in the top storey, they are placed in the south, east, and west walls of the different floors; the top storey has a single window slit in each of the east and west walls. High up in the tower there is an arched floor having, besides a break, two oblong holes as if for bell -ropes. Below this floor traces are observable of joist-holes for two wooden floors, in addition to the ground floor. In the north wall are two arclied doorways, one on the ground level, and the other on the level of the stone floor. If any portion of the monastic building was attaclied to this tower, it must have been on the north side, but even here there are no traces of roof-bonding.

   b

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 263

4. White Castle converted into county jail in 1792

   Naas · town · Kildare · 1792–1833

   White Castle, Geoghegan's and Ward's houses and gardens (now the Town-Hall) were converted into a gaol in 1792, known as the White Castle jail, remaining a prison until 1833 when a new gaol on the Limerick road was completed.

   Read the passage

   This probably continued to be the county jail until the conversion of “ White Castle, Geoghegan’s and Ward’s houses and gardens” (now the Town-Hall) into a gaol in 1792. This buildiog, known as the “ White Castle jail,” continued to be a prison until 1833, when the gaol on the Limerick road was completed. I find a note of 1684 that “ an exact veigh is to be taken of ye gardhouse of what will make a chimney there to avoid ye smoke, and like wise to view the upper loft of that place for to make a schoolhouse on for the present.”

   1685. — A guardhouse was to be built 21 feet by 16 by 10 feet high, slated, with a cliimney. This apparently was not done, for in 1690 a guardhouse was built under the Sessions House.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 235

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Naas, you're near where the old White Castle jail once stood. In 1792, White Castle, along with Geoghegan's and Ward's houses and gardens — land that later became the Town Hall — was converted into a county gaol. It stayed a prison until 1833, when a new gaol opened on the Limerick road. There's an earlier note from 1684 about taking measurements of the guardhouse there, to fit a chimney and set up a schoolhouse in the upper loft. In 1685 a guardhouse was planned, 21 by 16 by 10 feet, slated, with a chimney, but it seems it was never built — a guardhouse went up under the Sessions House in 1690 instead.

5. Alms-house Stones Removed During 1798 Rebellion

   Naas · town · Kildare · 1798

   During the 1798 rebellion, the Lattin alms-house at Naas was pulled down a second time to allow artillery to be positioned, and the agent Mr. T. Plunkett preserved the inscribed stones, later replacing them when the house was rebuilt.

   Read the passage

   The house was twice pulled down, first in 1787, to widen tlie street, and again in 1798, during the rebellion, to enable the artillery to place their guns in position.

   There are three inscribed stones set in the front wall ; the first bears the names of the founders and date of foundation : “ Gul. Lattin de Morristown et Anna Luterell de Lutterellstown, me fieri fecerunt anno mdxc.” The inscription on the second stone is not decipherable. On the third we have a Scripture text : ‘‘ Wealth maketh many friends, but the poor is separated from his neighbour.” This is taken from Prov. xix. 4.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

   As the companion tells it

   Coming through Naas in Kildare. The Lattin alms-house was pulled down twice, first in 1787 to widen the street, and again in 1798 during the rebellion so artillery could position their guns; the agent Mr. T. Plunkett preserved the inscribed stones and replaced them when the house was rebuilt. Three stones are set in the front wall: one bears the founders' names and a foundation date in Latin, a second is no longer decipherable, and the third carries a Scripture text from Proverbs: 'Wealth maketh many friends, but the poor is separated from his neighbour.'

6. Battle of Ardscull dead buried at St Michael's, Athy

   Athy · town · Kildare · 1315

   Tradition holds that combatants who fell at the battle of Ardscull, including Sir William Prendergast and Scottish knights, were buried in St. Michael's churchyard in Athy, though other sources say the Dominican Monastery was the place of interment.

   Read the passage

   1315, and gained the battle of Ardscul, there fell on the English side Raymond le Gros and Sir William Prendergast, and on the Scots’ side Sir Fergus Andressan and Sir Walter Murray. A tradition says they were buried in St. Michael’s, although Samuel Lewis and others mention “ the Dominican Monastery ” as the place of their interment. Some interesting monuments lie scattered around. One slab, broken off at the bottom, runs thus : —

   In Hope of an Happy Resurrection Here Lyetli The Body of Robert Pearson Esqr Captain of the 10th Rejiment of Root of Ireland who served under the brave Duke of Marlborough. . . . . .

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 76

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Athy in Kildare, tradition links St. Michael's churchyard with the Battle of Ardscull in 1315. On the English side Raymond le Gros and Sir William Prendergast fell, and on the Scots' side Sir Fergus Andressan and Sir Walter Murray. The tradition says they were buried there, though Samuel Lewis and others give the Dominican Monastery as the place of interment. Some interesting monuments lie scattered around, including a broken slab to Robert Pearson, captain of the 10th Regiment of Foot of Ireland, who served under the Duke of Marlborough.

7. Burning of Ballycannon and Courtown houses in 1798

   near Ballycannon · townland · Cork · 1798

   Because Colonel Michael Aylmer of Ballycannon took an active part against the rebels, they burnt his houses of Ballycannon and Courtown, for which he later received compensation from the State.

   Read the passage

   At the time that William Aylmer of the Painstown branch was leading the Irish insurgents, Michael Aylmer, head of the Bally cannon family, was a colonel of artillery, and took such an active part against the rebels that they burnt his houses of Ballycannon and Courtown.* Colonel Aj’lmer received from the State as compensation for house, furniture, clothes, horses, corn, &c., the sum of £2212 3.s. IL/. His only son John built Courtown. He married Margaret Susan, daughter of Sir Fenton A^dmer of Donadea. He died in 1857.

   Sir Fenton Aylmer received as compensation £1120 65. 6^d.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 214

8. Cogitosus Describes Kildare as Head of Irish Churches

   Kildare · town · Kildare

   Cogitosus, likely a monk of the Kildare monastery under St. Brigid's rule, described Kildare as the abbess-seat 'who is the head of nearly all the churches of Ireland' and whose power stretched from sea to sea, dwelling in the plain of the Liffey.

   Read the passage

   The second Life is by Cogitosus. It is in Latin prose. Most probably he was a monk of the monastery of Kildare that was under the rule of St. Brigid in ancient times, for he describes, in great detail, the architecture, ornaments, and arrangements of the church, as if he had it before his eyes every day. From his omitting all mention of the ravages of the Lanes and of some of the Irish chiefs in the early part of tlie ninth century, it has been correctly inferred that he wrote before 835, the year when the foreigners first plundered Kildare. ‘‘ Cilldara,’’ sa}’ the Annah of the Four ^Laders^ “ was plundered by the foreigners of Inver Lea, i.e. Wicklow, and half the church was burned by them.” Cogitosus says, “ Kildare was a sanctuary, or place of refuge, where there could be no danger of the attack of an enemy.” The Life begins thus : “ You oblige me, brethren, to make an attempt to set down in writing the virtues and deeds of Brigid of holy and blessed memory, as if I were one of the learned. The burthen you lay on me, lowly and weak as I am, ignorant too of the niceties of language, is to tell in a fitting way of her who is the head of nearly all the churches of Ireland, and the summit towering above all tlie monasteries of the Scoti ; v/hose power extends over the whole of Ireland, stretching from sea to sea ; the abbess who dwells in the plain of the Litfey, whom all the abbesses of the Scoti venerate.” And he ends thus : “ I ask pardon from the brethren, and from all who may read this, for, urged on by obedience, not supported by any excellence of learning, I have traversed this vast ocean of the virtues of St. Brigid, one to be dreaded even by the bravest men.” This Life is published in the Bollandist Acta Sanctorum for February 1st.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 123

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Kildare town, you're passing through what a monk called Cogitosus once described as the head of nearly all the churches of Ireland. He wrote a Life of St. Brigid, most likely in the early 800s, and he was probably a monk of the monastery here, under Brigid's rule. He described the architecture, the ornaments, the arrangements of the church in such detail that scholars think he had it before his eyes every day. He wrote before 835, because he makes no mention of the raids that came that year, when foreigners from Inver Lea, that is Wicklow, plundered Kildare and burned half the church. Cogitosus himself called Kildare a sanctuary, a place of refuge where there could be no danger of attack from an enemy. His Life begins with him saying the brethren obliged him to write down the virtues and deeds of Brigid, as if he were one of the learned. He calls her "the head of nearly all the churches of Ireland, and the summit towering above all the monasteries of the Scoti," whose power extends over the whole of Ireland, stretching from sea to sea. He calls her the abbess who dwells in the plain of the Liffey, whom all the abbesses of the Scoti venerate. He ends by asking pardon, saying he was urged on by obedience, not by any excellence of learning, and that he had traversed the vast ocean of the virtues of St. Brigid, one to be dreaded even by the bravest men.

9. Defeat of Irish rebels at Kilkea in 1414

   Kilkea · parish · Kildare · 1414

   Thomas Cranley, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Justice, advanced to Tristledermot with a small army against rebelling Irish forces, remaining in prayer with his clergy, then defeated the enemy at Kilkea with a loss of 100 men.

   Read the passage

   1414 A.D. — The Irish in Leinster having taken up arms, Thomas Crawley, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Justice, advanced as far as Tristledermot with a small army to oppose them. He remained there in prayer with his clergj^ for their success. They defeated the enemy at Kilkea with a loss of 100 men.

   1485 A.D. — A Parliament, held in Dublin this year, authorized the Earl of Kildare, Lord Deputy, for the re-building of the Castle of Tristledermot, to iinpress waggons and horses from baronies in Dublin and Meath, and to oblige every person hohling one ploughland in the barony of Newcastle to provide an able man gratuitously at the work for four days. — “ Gilbert’s Viceroys,” p. 421.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 261

10. Discovery and restoration of the Moone Abbey Cross, c.1835

    Moone · townland · Kildare · 1835

    The Moone Abbey Cross was found around 1835 buried in the churchyard near the south-eastern wall of the old abbey church; after restoration it measures 17.5 feet, made of granite likely brought from Castledermot.

    Read the passage

    This cross was found about 1835 buried in Moone Abbey Churchyard, near south-eastern wall of old abbey church, and since its restoration, measures 17 J feet from platform to summit. The material is granite, which must have been brought from Castledermot, the nearest place where the stone can be obtained, four miles from Moone.

    On the face of this cross is the figure of Our Saviour crucified, with arms extended, and a fish, like a dolphin, over his head. The rest of the shaft has small, square panels, enclosing simple figures of animals and geometrical ornaments.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 209

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Moone, a cross was found buried in the abbey churchyard around 1835, near the south-eastern wall of the old abbey church. After restoration it stands 17.5 feet from platform to summit, made of granite that must have been brought from Castledermot, 4 miles away. On the face is the figure of Our Saviour crucified with arms extended, and a fish like a dolphin over his head. The rest of the shaft has small square panels with simple figures of animals and geometrical ornaments.

11. Duncliadh of Leinster blinded and dies at Disert Diarmada

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1037

    Duncliadh, son of Dunlaing, King of Leinster, was captured at Disert Diarmada and had his eyes put out by Donogh, son of Giolla Patrick (Fitzpatrick), of which he died shortly after.

    Read the passage

    1037 A.D. — Duncliadh, son of Dunlaing, King of Leinster, was captured at Disert Diarmada, and his eyes put out by Donogli, son of Giolla Patrick (Fitzpatrick), of which he died shortly after. — Id.

    1038 A.D. — O’Gabaidh, The Sage, distinguislied Bishop of Disert Diarmada, died. — Id.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 259

12. Erasmus Borrowes' losses during the 1641 rebellion

    Grangemellon · townland · Kildare · 1641–1646

    At the outbreak of the 1641 rebellion Erasmus Borrowes, then High Sheriff of Kildare, deposed on oath that he was unable to resist the Irish and lost goods, corn and cattle worth £9396 at his houses of Grangemellon, Giltown and Corbally. For his services King Charles I created him a baronet in 1646.

    Read the passage

    Early in the seventeenth century Henry Borrowes, Esq., first possessor of Giltown, married Jane, daughter of Sir Arthur Savage of Klieban, and, dying 20tli March, 1614, left Erasmus Borrowes, who afterwards, at the breaking out of the rebellion in 1641, was High Sheriff of the County Kildare, and deposed upon oath lie was not ‘‘ able to resist the Irisli, by the Posse Comltatus^ and that he lost in goods, corn and cattle, at his several houses of Grangemellon, Giltown, and Corbally, £9396 ; in debts, £11,932 "2s. Oi/. ; besides his yearly income, £1200, or thereabouts.” In consideration whereof, and of his good and faithful services during these troubles. King Charles I., by Privy Seal, dated at Eagland 7th July, 1645, and by Patent, 16t]i February, 1646, created him a baronet. Sir Erasmus married Sarah daughter of Walter Weldon, Esq., of Woodstock.

    Prior to 16201 Grangemellon was the property of Sir James Fitzgerald — a branch of the Geraldines of Kildare. But in 1623 an English gentleman named Philip Bushen of King’s Ashe in Devonshire was resident there, when a tragic occurrence was alleged to have taken place. He was charged with murdering his wife on the 23rd March, 1623. For this he was tried by a jury before Lord Kilmallock, condemned and executed, though lie was generally supposed to have been innocent. The trial had been deferred from time to time, and Bushen’s son and Erasmus Borrowes, then living at Giltown, together with the latter’s father-in-law, Walter Weldon, became sureties for his aq:)pearing at the time. In 1623 Walter Weldon of Woodstock was High Sheriff of the County Kildare, and on the execution of the unfortunate Bushen^ made an inventory of Bushen’s goods and took possession of the same in riglit of his

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 73

13. Gaols, Bridewells and Marshalseas of Naas

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1664–1792

    Two Bridewells existed before 1664, one near Corban's Mill and horse-fair, the other near the site later known as the jail. From 1776 to 1792 White Castle was used as a house of detention.

    Read the passage

    Previous to 1664 two Bridewells are mentioned. One was apparently situated somewhere between Corban’s Mill and tlie present horse-fair, and the otlier on or near the site of the building (afterwards known as the jail), which is now partly occupied by Mr. Eankin’s public-house on horse-fair. It seems, however, that from 1776 to 1792, the White Castle (now Town- Hall) was used as a house of detention of some kind. In 1664 a Marshalsea was appointed, apparently for the custody solely of prisoners convicted before the Sovereign of the Borougli, but I don’t know whether this Marshalsea and the Bridewell were the same building. From 1664 to 1788 certainly, and probably until about 1800, the Bridewell was on the site now occupied by Mr. E. H. Tracy’s new houses on Sallins road. About 1817 “Dr. Bolton built a house on site of old Bridewell.” This house was later inhabited by Mr. Hendrick, and was demolished some twenty years ago. An 1846 rental mentions “ Mrs. Eleanor Sutton’s (late Curran) house, offices and yard, called Bridewell, on Sallins road.” Later Dr. Joly (reps. Curran) held Bridewell in 1846. Contemporaneously with the Bridewell there was a goal (probably for the custody of Assize and county, as distinguished from borough prisoners), for in 1665, 1676, and 1681 down to 1743, I have found records in leases affecting certain lands “ behind ye gaole,” which building stood out in the street in front of Mr. Eankin’s present public-house and adjoining house.

    328

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 234

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, you are in a town with a long history of locking people up. Before 1664, two Bridewells stood here. One sat somewhere between Corban's Mill and the horse-fair, the other on or near the site that later became known as the jail, now partly occupied by a public-house on the horse-fair. In 1664 a Marshalsea was appointed, apparently for the custody solely of prisoners convicted before the Sovereign of the Borough, though the source is unsure whether this Marshalsea and the Bridewell were the same building. From 1664 to 1788, and probably until about 1800, the Bridewell stood on what is now the Sallins road. From 1776 to 1792 the White Castle, now the Town-Hall, was used as a house of detention of some kind. There was also a gaol, likely for Assize and county prisoners rather than borough ones, with lease records from 1665, 1676, 1681 and down to 1743 referencing lands behind it.

14. Houses demolished during 1798 fighting at Naas

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1798

    During the 1798 fighting at Naas, several named holdings and houses—including Ennis' holding in John's-lane, Lattin's alms houses in Horse Fair, the Red Cross Inn, and six cabins on the green—were demolished for cannon range or destroyed in combat.

    Read the passage

    Note. — On that occasion Ennis’ holding in John’s-lane, Lattin’s alms houses in Plorse Fair, the Eed Cross Inn, next to and north of where Eankin’s public-house now stands. Long’s holding at corner of New Eoad, Brewer’s two houses (I think on Dublin Eoad), six cabins on the green were either taken down by the military for range of cannon or demolished during the fighting. The guns were placed on two mounds, probably St. David’s Castle and the Fair Green where the old Barrack stood.

    Commissioners were afterwards appointed to investigate claims for damage caused by rebellion, rebuilding houses, etc.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 141

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, the town still carries traces of the 1798 fighting. Several buildings were demolished here, either by the military for cannon range or destroyed in combat. Ennis's holding in John's Lane, Lattin's alms houses in Horse Fair, the Red Cross Inn, Long's holding at the corner of New Road, Brewer's two houses on Dublin Road, and six cabins on the green were all lost. The guns were placed on two mounds, probably St. David's Castle and the Fair Green where the old Barrack stood. Commissioners were afterwards appointed to investigate claims for damage caused by the rebellion.

15. James Eustace of Yeomanstown accused over seditious book

    Yeomanstown · townland · Kildare · 1703

    In 1703 James Eustace of Yeomanstown was accused of bringing over the manuscript of a seditious book, 'Memoirs of King James II,' having it printed and distributed copies to Limerick, Galway, and elsewhere; the charge was proved and the book ordered burnt by the common hangman.

    Read the passage

    In 1703, Janies Eustace of YeomanstoAvn was accused of having brought over from England the manuscript of a seditious book entitled “ Memoirs of King Jiimes II.,” of having got it printed, and sent copies of it to Limerick, Gahva}^, and else- Avhere. Tie denied the charge, but it Avas proved against him. The book Avas ordered to be burnt by the common hangman. I do not knoAv Avhether he suffered in any Avay in consequence : this is probably the same Avho is buried in the churchyard of Caragli. Le Burgo says the Eustaces of YeomanstoAvn Avere a family highly respected in his time (1762) : “ Etiam nunc floret donius de Yeomanstown Catholica religione et exemplari probitate clara.”

    By an Act of Parliament passed in 1704, called “an Act for registering the Popish Clergy,” priests were obliged to register their names, places of abode, and the several parishes of Avliich they Avere the parish priests. Sureties entered into recognizance for them. In the Co. Kildare we find that Maurice Eustace of Lepstown, gentleman, was surety for Nicholas Eustace, p.p. of Kaharaine, Killniage, Eaeullen, and part of Tullyandof MorristoAvn ; and also for Janies Eustace, p.p. of 'Old Connell, Ladystowne, Morristowne, and Biller.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

16. Kilteel Commandery founded by Maurice Fitzgerald

    Kilteel · parish · Kildare · 1200–1299

    A Commandery for Knights Hospitallers was founded at Kilteel Castle by Maurice Fitzgerald in the 13th century, one of the earliest known references to this castle of defence in the barony of Salt, about six miles east of Naas.

    Read the passage

    Dr. Petrie, in his Essay, also gives a list of castles in Ireland, extracted from the second volume of the “Annals of the Four Masters.” Kilheale, or Kilteel, is not mentioned, but these castles that now are known in the county Kildare are given, viz. Castlederwood (Castledermot), Kilkea, built by the Lacyes, Castle Carbry (Carbery), by the Bermiughams. Now as to the history of the old Castle of Kilteel, or Kilheale, the earliest I can find is this: — A Commandery for Knights Hospitallers was founded here by Maurice Fitzgerald in the

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 31

17. Lackagh Castle damaged by Cromwell and fire

    Lackagh · parish · Kildare

    According to Seward's Topographia Hibernica, the castle at Lackagh, traditionally built by a woman of the FitzGerald family, was much injured by the assaults of Cromwell and afterwards suffered by fire. Nearby is a Moat or Rath surrounded by a ditch, and the burial place of the Rice family whose seat of Mount-Rice once stood close by.

    Read the passage

    “ Lackagh,” he writes, “ is a Rectory in the diocese of Kildare. Here is an ancient burial-ground, with the ruins of a church and a castle. The latter, according to tradition, was built by a woman of the family of Fitz- Gerald ; it was much injured by the assaults of Cromwell, and afterwards suffered by fire. Near it is a Moat or Rath, which appears to have been surrounded by a ditch. Here is the burial-place of the family of Ptice, whose ancient seat of Mount- Rice, once an elegant situation, lies at a small distance from these ruins. This place gives title of Baron to the family of Fielding, now Earl of Desmond.”

    The Earldom of Desmond (or South Munster) was an old FitzGerald title created in 1329. James FitzGerald the 17th Earl, known as the Sugauu Earl, or Earl of Straw, was the last

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 173

18. Lord Furnivall builds fortress and bridge at Athy

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1413–1420

    Sir John Talbot, Lord Furnivall, erected a fortress and bridge at Athy for the protection of the Pale, as recorded in a document praising his efforts to fortify the frontier against the Irish enemies of Leix.

    Read the passage

    document published in Ellis'* s Letters, where it is stated to have been “ taken out of the White Book of the Excliequer, burnt in Sir Francis Angir’s cliest, at Jacob Newman’s, anno. 1610.’’ It appears that Lord Furnivall found such difficulty in obtaining money supplies from England to carry on his government that he at last determined to go there in person to seek the payment of arrears. The English settlers in Ireland, fearing what miglit liappen in his absence, addressed a letter to the king, urging that Furnivall’s claims might be granted, and thus render liis journey unnecessary. Amongst other things in his favour, this document states : — “ He liath accomplished divers otlier journeys and labours for the said relief and comfort of your faithful lieges on this side the sea, and in especially at the making hereof, in repairing and mending of a bridge called the bridge of Atliy, set in tlie frontier of tlie borders of the Irish enemies of Leix, for tlie safe keeping whereof he hath erected a new tower upon the same for a ward, to put therewith a great fortification about the same, for resistance of the said enemies, to the great comfort and relief of the English, and great overthrow of the Irish enemies, by which bridge 3mur faithful lieges, both here and elsewhere, may suffer their goods and cattle to remain in the fields day and night, without being stolen or sustaining an}^ other loss, which hath not been seen here by the space of these thirty years past. God be thanked and your gracious provision.” The full text of this most curious document has been reprinted in Bobins’s London and Dublin Magazine ioY i\\Q 1827 (p. 596). Amongst a long list of signatures attached to it, are those of the Prior of the House of St. John’s, Naas ; the Archdeacon of Kildare ; the Commons of Naas ; the Commons of Clane ; the Commons of Tristledermott (Castledermott) ; the sheriff of Kildare ; John White of Connall ; Nicholas Brown, Patrick Flattesbury, John Eustace of Newlands, &c., &c.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 50

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Athy, this town once stood on the frontier of the English Pale. Sir John Talbot, Lord Furnivall, was the man who fortified it. He had been struggling to get money from England to carry on his government, and at last determined to go there in person to seek payment of arrears. The English settlers in Ireland feared what might happen in his absence, so they wrote to the king, urging that Furnivall's claims be granted and his journey made unnecessary. Their letter described his work. He had repaired and mended the bridge called the bridge of Athy, set on the frontier of the Irish enemies of Leix. Upon it he erected a new tower for a ward, with great fortification about it for resistance of those enemies. By this bridge the king's faithful lieges could leave their goods and cattle in the fields day and night without being stolen or sustaining loss, something not seen there for thirty years past. The letter gave thanks to God and the king's gracious provision. The document was taken from the White Book of the Exchequer, later burnt in Sir Francis Angir's chest at Jacob Newman's house in 1610. It survived in copy and was reprinted in Robins's London and Dublin Magazine in 1827. The long list of signatures included the Prior of the House of St. John's in Naas, the Archdeacon of Kildare, the Commons of Naas, the Commons of Clane, the Commons of Tristledermott, also called Castledermott, the sheriff of Kildare, John White of Connall, Nicholas Brown, Patrick Flattesbury, and John Eustace of Newlands.

19. Lord John Bonneville buried at St John's Abbey after death at Ardscull

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1309–1635

    In 1309, Lord John Bonneville, who was slain at Ardscull by Sir Anthony Power and his followers, was buried in the church of the Abbey of St John's, Athy. The oldest legible gravestone date in the churchyard is November 1635, bearing the name William Watson.

    Read the passage

    regard to tlie mill of O’Kelly and the reign of Elizabeth. That slab, I presume, referred to the mill at the east side near to the garden of White’s Castle. Mr. Arthur Furney was the last in ownership in the early part of this century. From the two large religions buildings anciently standing in the locality, a name was given in Irish to signify the town of two houses, “ Blatheagh,” pronounced Blahae. As to the Abbey at the east side of the river we have the names Abbey and Abbey lands still remaining. About the year 1860 an ancient gateway at the southern end of tlie town was taken down. A writer in i]iQ Anthologia Hihernica of 1793 says the name of Preston’s Gate, by which it was known, is a corruption, and instead of being so called from the retreat of General Preston through it towards Carlow in 1648, as generally asserted, it was the postern gate of that monastery. In 1309, Lord John Bonneville, slain at Ardscull by Sir Anthony Power and his followers, was buried in the church of the Abbey of St. John’s, Athy. The oldest date observable in the churchyard is November, 1635, on a slab in raised lettering, bearing the name “ William Watson.”

    In the dwelling-house of St. John’s, Mr. Butler, the last of the sovereigns or town magistrates, resided. In St. Michael’s there is a monument to Mr. George King, on which it is stated that he was for many years another of the town sovereigns. They held rule of justice under a charter granted to the town in 1613.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 86

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Athy now. The old Irish name for the town was Blatheagh, pronounced Blahae, meaning the town of two houses, from two large religious buildings that anciently stood here. The Abbey of St John stood at the east side of the river, and you can still see the names Abbey and Abbey lands in the locality. In 1309, Lord John Bonneville was buried in the church of that abbey. He had been slain at Ardscull by Sir Anthony Power and his followers. About 1860 an ancient gateway at the southern end of the town was taken down. It was known as Preston's Gate, said to be named for the retreat of General Preston through it towards Carlow in 1648. But a writer in the Anthologia Hibernica of 1793 says that name is a corruption. He says it was the postern gate of the monastery. The oldest date observable in the churchyard is November 1635, on a slab in raised lettering bearing the name William Watson. In the dwelling-house of St John's, Mr. Butler, the last of the sovereigns or town magistrates, resided. In St Michael's there is a monument to Mr. George King, on which it is stated that he was for many years another of the town sovereigns. They held rule of justice under a charter granted to the town in 1613.

20. Lord Lieutenant compels Naas corporation to admit Roman Catholics

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1686

    In 1686 the Lord Lieutenant intervened to compel the Naas corporation to admit Roman Catholics to the offices of sovereign, portreeve, and burgesses on the same terms as other persons in the corporation.

    Read the passage

    Ill the same year the Lord Lieutenant had to intervene to compel the corporation to admit Poman Catholics to the offices of sovereign, portreeves, and burgesses, same as other persons in tlie corporation. The position of burgess seemed to be in much request, for in 1726 Thomas Burgh of Oldtown expended £225 3s. 2J(f. on his election. I have all the items of this expenditure on the freemen of Naas. A vast number of coaches were hired at 18.s. Od. each per day, horses at 5.s., coole tankards

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 189

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Naas now, in County Kildare. Back in 1686, the Lord Lieutenant had to step in and compel the corporation here to admit Roman Catholics to the offices of sovereign, portreeve, and burgesses, on the same terms as anyone else in the corporation. The position of burgess was clearly much sought after, because in 1726 Thomas Burgh of Oldtown spent 225 pounds, 3 shillings, and 2 pence on his election.

21. Norse slaying of the Lord of Naas

    Naas · town · Kildare · 861

    In 861 A.D., Muireghan, son of Diarmead, Lord of Naas and Airther Life, was slain by Norsemen, marking a violent episode in the town's Viking-era history.

    Read the passage

    861 A. I). — Muireghan, son of Diarmead, Lord of Naas and Airther Life, was slain by Norsemen.

    Up to this time Naas was the chief residence of the Kings of Leinster. After Cearbhall’s death, 904 a.d., it was occupied by local chiefs. It is recorded that Cearbhall had never exacted rent from the Churches of Naas.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, you are in what was the chief residence of the Kings of Leinster. In 861, Muireghan, son of Diarmead, Lord of Naas and Airther Life, was slain by Norsemen. After Cearbhall's death in 904, the town was occupied by local chiefs. It is recorded that Cearbhall had never exacted rent from the Churches of Naas.

22. Old Parliament House and Garter Inn at Castledermot

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1499–1780

    Petrie recorded an old house in Castledermot popularly called the Parliament House, believed to date to around 1499; a 1780 traveller described the town's former gates (Carlow Gate, Dublin Gate) and dined at the Garter Inn, which stood where the Leinster Arms Hotel now stands.

    Read the passage

    likewise granted to the King, as well by the clergy as the laity. — (Ware.) In a marginal note to Ordnance Survey letter, G. Petrie remarks: — “I saw an old house in the town which was popularly called the Parliament House. From the style of architecture I would suppose it as old as 1499. I believe it has been taken down some years.’ ’ Tlie writer of a “ Tour Through Ireland,” publislied 1780, gives a short description of tliis town : — “ It liad formerly,” he writes, “ four gates ; the entrance southward still bears the name of Carlow Gate, and the other to the north, Dublin Gate, though there are not the least remains of either left. . . . The inn where we dined was part of the Parliament House. ... As to the castle from which it derives its name, there are not even the vestiges to be seen.” The inn here mentioned was called the Garter Inn. It stood where the Leinster Arms Hotel now stands, and gave the land connected with it the name of the Garter farm or holding.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 262

23. Ormonde secures Naas with new Sovereign and Protestant families

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1642

    On 3 April 1642 Ormonde advanced on Naas, secured it with a garrison under Lieutenant-Colonel Gibson, and placed a new Sovereign, eight Burgesses, and fifty families of despoiled Protestants in the town.

    Read the passage

    On April 2nd, 1642, Ormonde, commanding an expedition sent to burn and destroy the liouses and goods of the rebels who had deserted the County Kildare, lay at Pathcoole with 3000 foot, 500 horse, and five small field pieces. On the 3rd of April he advanced on Naas, which he had saved from burning in February, and secured it with a garrison under Lieutenant- Colonel Gibson. He now placed a new Sovereign, eight Burgesses, and fifty families of despoiled Protestants in the town.*

    January 17, 1643. — Naas garrison, under command of Sir Arthur Loftus, the governor, was in great distress, and it was a question whether it should be abandoned or no ; but it was determined to send a month’s provisions to Naas from Dublin, notwithstanding the great distress in that city.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 138

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, this is a town Ormonde had saved from burning back in February 1642. On the 3rd of April that year he advanced on it with 3000 foot, 500 horse, and five small field pieces, and secured it with a garrison under Lieutenant-Colonel Gibson. He installed a new Sovereign, eight Burgesses, and 50 families of despoiled Protestants in the town. By January 1643 the garrison, now under Sir Arthur Loftus as governor, was in such distress that abandoning it was considered. It was kept alive instead by a month's provisions sent from Dublin, despite great want in that city itself.

24. Plague sweeps Naas after drought of 1575

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1575

    In 1575, following great heat and a long drought from May Day to Lammas, a dreadful plague swept away large numbers of the inhabitants of Naas, as recorded in the Four Masters.

    Read the passage

    1575. — Owing to great heat and long drought from Bealltaine (1st May) to Lammas (1st August) a dreadful plague swept away large numbers of the inhabitants of Naas (“ Four Masters.”)

    1577. — Sydney states that “ Pori Oge O’More and Cormacke MackCormacke O’Connor accompanied with not more than 140 men and boys, on the third of the monethe burned between vii. and viii. hundred thatched housies in a markett towne called the Naas. They had not one horseman nor one shot with them.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 131

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Naas, a town in Kildare with a grim entry in the records. In 1575, after great heat and a long drought lasting from the first of May to the first of August, a dreadful plague swept away large numbers of the town's inhabitants. The Four Masters recorded it. Two years later, in 1577, Pori Oge O'More and Cormacke MackCormacke O'Connor burned between 700 and 800 thatched houses here, with no more than 140 men and boys.

25. Preston takes and burns Naas, 1647

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1647

    In August 1647 Preston's Leinster army took Naas and other small places on his way to Trim, but after his defeat at Dangan Hill by Parliamentary forces he retreated, deserting and burning Naas and the other places he had taken.

    Read the passage

    forces under Jones, he deserted and burnt the Naas, and the other places lately taken hy him, and retired to Catherlow.

    29th September, 1648. — Ormonde having returned to Ireland as the King’s Lord Lieutenant, landing at Cork, raised 6000 foot and 2000 horse near Carlow, and on June 11, 1649, took Talbot’s town and Castle Talbot, in County Kildare. Jones marched out of Dublin with the Parliamentary army as far as Johnstown, but Ormonde, owing to want of supplies, was unable to advance against him until June 14th, when, having received a reinforcement of 2000 men and £6000, he moved towards Dublin, taking the Castle oi Alton and the Naas on tho way. There he held a council of war, and, leaving thirty horse and thirty foot to block Ballysonan, marched towards Dublin on 19th June, Jones having retired thither.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 140

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming through Naas now, in Kildare. In August 1647, Preston's Leinster army took the town along with other small places on his march towards Trim. After he was defeated by Parliamentary forces under Jones, he deserted and burnt Naas and the other places he had taken, and retired to Catherlow. Two years later, in June 1649, Ormonde, back in Ireland as the King's Lord Lieutenant, took the Naas again on his way to Dublin, holding a council of war there before marching on.

26. Round Tower of Kilkenny found built over burial skeletons

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1847

    Excavations inside the base of the Kilkenny round tower in 1847 revealed it was out of the perpendicular because its foundations had been built over a group of skeletons, some extending beyond the tower's circle. The skeletons lay east and west, showing Christian burial practice.

    Read the passage

    Some proof that the round towers were erected for Christian purposes is shown in the fact of their always being found in a Christian burial-ground. The round tower of Kilkenny is remarkable for being out of the perpendicular, and this was discovered on excavations inside the base being made in 1847, to be caused by the foundations being built over a group of skeletons, some portions of which extended beyond the circle of the building, and consequently on that side the foundation sank a little. The skeletons were lying east and west (their feet to the east), and there is direct proof that the pagan Irish on their conversion to Christianity clianged their mode of burial, and deposited their dead with the face to the east. The Kilmacduach tower, Co. Galway, leans greatly for the same reason. Again, where any remains of the church coeval with the tower still exist the masonry of the two will be found to correspond, and the erection of at least two of the round towers are mentioned in the Irish Annals, viz. that of Clonmacnois (O’Kourke’s Tower) in a.d. 1124, and that of Annaghdown in 1238.

    Proofs of their defensive cliaracter is shown in the height of their doorway above the ground and of traces of double doors in some of them : while the following entries in the Irish Annals show how far they were resorted to for safety at the time of an attack : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 57

27. Royal troops sent to burn Maynooth, 1535 skirmish

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1535

    In January 1535, by orders of the Council of Ireland, seven hundred men were sent to burn Maynooth, where a skirmish occurred in which thirteen of the rebels were slain while the royal troops suffered little loss.

    Read the passage

    In January, 1535, by orders of the Council of Ireland, seven hundred men were sent to burn Maynooth, wliere there was a skirmish in which thirteen of the rebels were slain, but the royal troops retired, having suffered little loss.*

    The following account of the siege of the Castle of Maynooth is taken from Hollinshed’s Chronicles published in 1570:

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 157

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Maynooth, this is where royal troops came in January 1535. The Council of Ireland sent 700 men to burn the town. A skirmish broke out, and 13 rebels were slain. The royal troops withdrew afterward, having suffered little loss.

28. Sale of Lyons estate after 500 years

    Lyons · townland · Kildare · 1796

    In December 1796, Michael Aylmer, pressed by debts, sold Lyons—which had belonged to his family for 500 years—along with the townland of Clonurry, to Sir Nicholas Lawless, later Lord Cloncurry.

    Read the passage

    Lieut. -Col. George Aylmer of Lyons, already mentioned, was a member for the county Kildare in King James’s Parliament of 1689 ; he probably took part in the battles of the Poyne and Aughrim, and in the siege of Limerick, and was comprehended ill the Statutes of Limerick in 1691 on the surrender of that place, thereby saving his estate of Lyons from confiscation. He died and was buried at Lyons in 1729. His son. Sir Gerald Aylmer, Knt., who served in King James’s armj^, was taken prisoner at the siege of Derry, and exchanged, 1691. His second son Michael was the last Aylmer of Lyons, to which he succeeded while a minor. He married three times, all his wives being ladies of position and wealth. His third wife was Mary de Purgh, daughter of Thomas, brother of the tenth Earl of Clanrickarde, by whom he had a son who succeeded to the representation of the senior branch of the family, but not to its broad acres. The age of extravagance he lived in, and to which he was a victim, was instrumental in destroying a family which had survived the shocks of war and revolution. In December, 1796, Michael Aylmer, pressed by his debts, sold Lyons, which had belonged to his family for 500 j^ears, and the rest of his lands, including the townland of Cion curry, to Sir Nicholas Lawless, subsequently created Lord Cloncurry. His great grandson Gerald Joseph Aylmer is the present head of the Aylmer family.

    2. The Aylmers of Ballykenane, and Courtown.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 213

29. St. Bridget's Oak still venerated for curing powers in tenth century

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 970–999

    Cogitosus, Bishop of Kildare, mentions in the late tenth century that the trunk of St. Bridget's Oak was still standing at Kildare and was much venerated and sought after for its miraculous curing powers.

    Read the passage

    The ancient name of Kildare was Drumcree,” or, “the Uidge of Clay.” It obtained its present name about the year ‘170, when St. Bridget, the Mary of Ireland, after she took the veil, settled there, and built her little cell under a large oak tree ; from this incident it was known as “ Gill Kara,” or, “ the Clnirch of the Oak”; and in time as St. Bridget’s fame increased the name extended to the neighbouring town and district, till eventually the importance of this religious establishment became so great that when the Bale, or the English land, was divided into counties in the reign of King John “ Kildare ” was selected as the name for tliis county, which comprises portions of the ancient territories of Carbury, Offaly, Ofl'elan, and Omurethy. In the latter end of the tenth century tlie trunk of St. Bridget’s Oak is mentioned by Cogitosus, Jlishop of Kildare, as still standing and much venerated and sought after for its miraculous curing powers.

    St. Bridget’s festival is held on the 1st of February. She was the daughter of distinguished parents : her father was Dubhtach, a descendant of Eochy, brother of the famous Conn of the Hundred Battles, and her mother was named Brotseach. She was born at Faughart, in the Co. Louth, in the middle of the fifth century, and after a charitable and holy life she died in her 70th year on the 1st of February, 523. Her hod}^ was buried beside the high altar, and a couple of centuries later her relics were enshrined, and in the year 835 they were removed for safety to the cathedral church of Downpatrick, and placed beside the relics of St. Patrick and St. Columbkille.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 65

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, you are near the place where St. Bridget built her little cell under a large oak tree in about the year 470, after she took the veil. From that tree the town took its name, Cill Dara, the Church of the Oak, and the old name Drumcree fell away. In the latter end of the tenth century Cogitosus, Bishop of Kildare, mentions that the trunk of St. Bridget's Oak was still standing, much venerated and sought after for its miraculous curing powers. Bridget herself was the daughter of Dubhtach, a descendant of Eochy, brother of Conn of the Hundred Battles, and her mother was Brotseach. She was born at Faughart in County Louth in the middle of the fifth century and after a charitable and holy life she died in her 70th year on the 1st of February, 523. Her body was buried beside the high altar, and a couple of centuries later her relics were enshrined. In the year 835 they were removed for safety to the cathedral church of Downpatrick, and placed beside the relics of St. Patrick and St. Columbkille.

30. St. Brigid's chair, thimble and footprint stone at Clane

    Clane · town · Kildare · 1840–1850

    Some forty or fifty years before writing, there existed near the millrace at Clane what was called St. Brigid's chair and thimble, and a stone said to bear the imprints of her feet, before being quarried away. A well beside the chair, known as St. Brigid's well, still sends a tiny flow down to the river.

    Read the passage

    There are few aneient remains in this district. Some forty or fifty years ago there existed what was called St. Brigid’s chair and thimble, besides a stone said to bear the imprints of her feet, a little way above tlie head of the millrace at Claiie, where there is now a disused cpiarry ; but tlie stones were quarried a generation ago. I imagine from the description that it may have been an old cronilecli. The well which sprung beside the cliair, and was known as St. Brigid’s well, still sends a tiny flow down to the river.

    On the bank of the Butterstream, nearly opposite the ruins of the Abbey of Clane, there is a genuine relic of pre-Christian times. This is a large block of stone, with a cup cut in its upper side. It is what is called a bullaii or rock basin, of whicli there are many in Ireland, and it was doubtless used in pagan worship, an offering of milk or meal being deposited in the bowl. People in Clane call it a wart-stone, and say that you have never been in Clane unless you have sat upon it, which looks like a tradition of its having been used in some rite of initiation, perhaps for baptism in Christian times. Not far from this stone, and behind the mill at Clane, there is a large moat or tumulus covered with trees, and close to this is a Sunday well. For the legend in connexion with this tumulus and the stone basin, I must refer you to Dr. Comerford.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 25

31. St. Laurence O'Toole baptised at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1123

    The infant Lorcan (later St. Laurence O'Toole) was presented at the baptismal font by Donat at Kildare, an event used to reconcile his father with Donat.

    Read the passage

    Dermot, who was cliarged with the duty of presenting tlie child at the baptismal font, on which occasion he received the name Lorcan, whidi has been anglicised Laurence. As the father of the saint and Donat appear not to liave been on friendly terms previously, the birth of the child was availed of as an opportunity for reconciliation ; probably, also, in com[)liment to Donat ami to accommodate him, the ceremony was fixed to take place at Kildare. When about ten years old, Ijaurence was delivered as a hostage into the hands of Dermod Mac Murrogli, King of Leinster, who treated him witli great cruelty. He was next placed under the care of the Abbot of Grlendalough, and shortly after made clioice of the religious state. Thirteen years later, and when only in his twenty-fifth year, he was chosen abbot, and in 1162, on the See of Dublin becoming vacant, Laurence was unanimously chosen Archbishop, and was consecrated in . the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, now Christ’s Church. It was during his episcopate that the English invasion of Ireland took place. The traitor Mac Morrogh and his allies invested Dublin in 1169, but, chiefly through the exertions of the Archbisliop in rousing the citizens to the defence of the capital, the assailants were repulsed. In the following year, however, the attempt was renewed, and this time with success, owing to dissensions amongst the leaders. St. Laurence warmly espoused the cause of the Irish High-King, Koderick O’Conor, and made more than one journey to the English Court on his behalf. On one of these occasions he followed King Henry to Normandy, and on his journey homeward he took sick, and died at the Monastery of Eu in 1182, and was interred there in wliat is now the parish cliurch. A recent writer describes it as “ a noble building of the Middle Ages, rising giant-like among the clustering roofs around. . . . Amongst its cliapels there is one which ever arrests the stranger’s attention, from the loveliness of the screen-work that encloses it, and which the inquirer is told ed la chapelle de d arcJiereque Irlandais, the chapel of St. Laurence O’Toole. . . . Here, in the crypt beneath this silent chapel, lie was laid to rest 712 years ago, and his tomb — portraying his vested form, reclining on its couch of stone — owes the preservation in whicli we see it to the munificence of a foreign prince.” — Footprints of Irish Saints.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 260

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through the town of Kildare, you're passing where one of Ireland's most significant medieval churchmen was baptised. In 1123, an infant was brought to the baptismal font and given the name Lorcan, later anglicised as Laurence. The ceremony was arranged to accommodate Donat, who had not been on friendly terms with the boy's father, and the birth was used as an opportunity for reconciliation. That child became St. Laurence O'Toole. At about 10, he was handed over as a hostage to Dermod Mac Murrough, King of Leinster, who treated him with great cruelty. He was then placed under the Abbot of Glendalough and chose the religious life. At 25 he was chosen abbot, and in 1162 he was unanimously elected Archbishop of Dublin, consecrated in the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, now Christ Church. The English invasion of Ireland came during his episcopate. In 1169, Mac Murrough and his allies attacked Dublin, but the Archbishop roused the citizens to its defence and the assailants were repulsed. The following year the attempt succeeded, owing to dissensions among the leaders. Laurence supported the Irish High-King Roderick O'Conor and made journeys to the English Court on his behalf. Following King Henry to Normandy, he fell ill on his way home and died at the Monastery of Eu in 1182. He lies buried there in what is now the parish church, in a chapel still known as that of St. Laurence O'Toole.

32. St. Patrick's visits and baptisms near Naas

    Naas · town · Kildare · 425–469

    During his 44-year ministry, St. Patrick visited Naas several times; the site of his tent is now St. David's Churchyard, and his well, where he baptized Dubhlang's children in 448, is in the elder grove at Oldtown. He also baptized at Sunday's Well near Millbrook, where a Patron was later held.

    Read the passage

    During the 44 years of St. Patrick’s ministry (425 to 469 A.D.) he paid several visits to Naas. The site of his pupal or tent is in the green of the fort, now St. David’s Churchj^ard ; his well, where he in 448 baptized Dubhlang’s two sous, Oillill and Illann, and Oillill’s two daughters, Moaghain and Fiedelm, is in the elder grove at Oldtown. He also baptized at Sunday’s Well, near Millbrook, east of Corban’s Mill, and half way between Fryary Eoad and the Eailway. The Ordnance MSS. state that a “ Patron ” was held at stated periods at Sunday’s Well in old times.

    About 664 A.D. — St. Fechin visited Naas, obtained the release of certain captives, in memory of which the Market Cross was erected in Naas.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 127

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead you're coming into Naas. During his 44-year ministry, from 425 to 469, St. Patrick visited this town several times. The site where his tent stood is now St. David's Churchyard, in the green of the old fort. His well sits in the elder grove at Oldtown, and it was there in 448 that he baptized Dubhlang's two sons, Oillill and Illann, along with Oillill's two daughters, Moaghain and Fiedelm. He also baptized at Sunday's Well, near Millbrook, where a "Patron" was held at stated periods in old times.

33. Synod of Clane, 1162

    Clane · town · Kildare · 1162

    The chief event in the history of the Celtic abbey of Clane was the holding of a Synod there in A.D. 1162, shortly after which the district was divided among Strongbow's followers and the native chiefs dispossessed.

    Read the passage

    Coming now to Cliristian times, I suppose you all know that in the sixth century St. Ailba, Bishop of Ferns, founded an abbey here, and when leaving the place gave up his cell to St. Senchell the elder, whom he made its first abbot. It is supposed that the old parish church of Clane, now disused, marks the place where this Celtic monastery stood. The chief event in its history was the holding of a Synod in a. d. 1162. Shortly after this the district was divided among the followers of Strongbow, and the native chiefs were dispossessed and driven away. The natural result of this would be tlie ruin of the Celtic abbey of which we liear no more. If we try to picture the old monastery as it stood in the days of its prosperity, we may imagine a space almost identical with the jDresent graveyard of the old church, surrounded by a cashel or wall of stones, or perhaps by a wooden stockade. Within this stood the original cell or hut of St. Ailba, and near tliis the clnirch with the cells of the clergy and monks grouped round it. Clane was almost exempt from the raids of the Danes, who are only recorded to have plundered it once, on wliich occasion the natives rallied and pursued and inflicted signal slaughter upon them.

    28

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 25

34. The Ford of Light Tradition at Castlesize near Millicent Bridge

    Castlesize · townland · Kildare

    Before Millicent Bridge was built, the river was crossed at a ford by Castle Size House; a lamp was traditionally set up to guide travellers across this dangerous crossing, giving the place its name meaning 'the path of the lamp.'

    Read the passage

    The name is probably derived from the Irish capdn na ]’otllpe, i. e. the path of the lamp. Before Millicent Bridge was built the river Avas usually crossed at the ford close by Castle Size House ; the high road ended here, and was changed only in the time of the greatgrandfather of the present owner. A lamp or light of some kind was often set up at a dangerous ford to guide those who were crossing. Ardsolus, a station on the Limerick and Ennis Eailway, is really or polaip, the ford of the light. A well-known tradition in that part of the country says the friars of the neighbouring monastery of Quin used to keep a lamp lighted there at night to direct travellers when crossing the ford — a A'ery dangerous one, no doubt, when the river was sAvollen. See on this subject Joyce’s Irish Karnes of Places^ i. 203.— D. M.

    NOTES AND QUERIES.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

35. Thomas Hibernicus of Palmerstown ends his days at Aquila

    Palmerstown · townland · Kildare · 1270

    Thomas Hibernicus, a Kildare-born scholar, travelled to the Sorbonne and then to Italy, settling at the monastery of Aquila where he died and was buried. He bequeathed his books and manuscripts, along with money for masses, to the College of Sorbonne.

    Read the passage

    After Thomas had worked hard at the Sorbonne, and no doubt there written many of his works, he travelled into Italy, where he settled at Aquila. Marian of Florence says that Thomas the Irishman flourished in the year 1270 at the monastery of Aquila, in what is now the province of St. Bernardin. There he ended his life, and lies buried in the monastery.

    On his death-bed he bequeathed the books he had written, and also many other manuscripts to the College of Sorbonne.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 221

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, a scholar called Thomas Hibernicus was born. Thomas worked hard at the Sorbonne, where he no doubt wrote many of his works, then travelled into Italy and settled at the monastery of Aquila. Marian of Florence says he flourished there in 1270. He ended his life at Aquila and lies buried in the monastery. On his deathbed he bequeathed the books he had written, and many other manuscripts, to the College of Sorbonne.

36. Tradition of Abbot Cairpre building the round tower and crosses

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 919

    Local tradition holds that Abbot Cairpre, who died in 919 after a long life and tenure of office, built the round tower and church at Castledermot and erected the high crosses in the graveyard.

    Read the passage

    to the preservation of the building, and also affording an opportunity for the examination of its structural details. A considerable portion of the old church was in existence up to a comparatively recent date. An engraving, taken from a sketch made by Lieut. Grose in 1791 (Grose’s Antiquities), shows the south wall and the west-end standing. Petrie writes regarding it: — “The Old Abbey Cliurch was in existence when I visited the town (early in the century), partly in ruins and partl}^ repaired for a parish church. It was of tlie same architecture and age as the round tower.” At present, except such l)ortions as are incorporated in the existing church, nothing remains but the beautiful llomanesque western doorway with its clievron decoration. Two high Celtic crosses stand in the burial ground. Both are richly sculptured, the subjects being, as usual, Scri[)tural and religious, including, besides the central figure of The Crucified, Lavid }>laying the harp, the Sacrifice of Isaac, Adam and Eve in the Garden, the meeting between St. Anthony and St. Paul the first hermit (tliis is also on the Moone cross), the multiplication of the loaves and fishes, the Twelve Apostles, St. Christopher, &c. The cross to tlie south formerly lay in three parts, amongst the graves; it was restored by the Marquis of Kildare, afterwards fourth Luke of Leinster. The carving on the base was never finished, one side being incomplete and the other untouched. Several rough-hewn granite stones lie about, in shape oblong, but wider at the top than at the base ; some are quite plain ; others have a cross incised or in relief, running the whole length and breadth, like the one already referred to and popularly supposed to mark the grave of King Cormac. These may have served as lids or coverings of stone cothus. The tradition of the locality is that Abbot Cairpre, who died in 919, after a long life, and probably also a long tenure of office, built the round tower and the church, and erected the crosses. A rude circular granite font, formerly belonging to this church, was rescued from being used as a drinking-trough for cattle on the adjoining farm, and now lies within the ruins of the Eranciscan Abbey, it is not pierced. A granite stone, 2j feet in height above ground, stands in the gravej’ard ; it has a Celtic cross engraved on it, running its whole length, the peculiarity of which in this case is, that what would have been the circle of the cross is a round hole 5 inches in diameter, pierced right through. This sculptured stone does not appear to be of very ancient date ; it certainly is not one of those pierced stones to be found in some parts of the country, as,

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 265

37. 1686 dispute over freemen tolls in Naas corporation

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1686

    In 1686 a disturbance arose in Naas after the corporation issued a decree that freemen not inhabiting the borough should pay tolls and customs as foreigners and strangers, leading to a legal dispute between non-resident freemen and the sovereign.

    Read the passage

    In 1664 there were a number of non-resident freemen. In 1673 several of these were ordered “ to pay quarterage until they come to dwell,” each also to pay 20s. for his freedom. Even residents had to pay for their freedom, or give so many days’ labour, with security for performance. In 1686 a great disturbance arose, owing to the corporation having issued a decree that “ Freemen not inhabiting in the borough do pay tolls and customs as foreigners and strangers.” Whereupon the nonresident freemen combined and went to law with the sovereign, but were apparently beaten, for the jubilant resident freemen allowed the sovereign “ £20 for his trouble, also three livery cloaks and hatts, and what he shall spend in treating the corporation.”

    Ill the same year the Lord Lieutenant had to intervene to compel the corporation to admit Poman Catholics to the offices of sovereign, portreeves, and burgesses, same as other persons in tlie corporation. The position of burgess seemed to be in much request, for in 1726 Thomas Burgh of Oldtown expended £225 3s. 2J(f. on his election. I have all the items of this expenditure on the freemen of Naas. A vast number of coaches were hired at 18.s. Od. each per day, horses at 5.s., coole tankards

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 189

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Naas, a Kildare town with a stubborn streak in its old corporation records. Back in 1686 a great disturbance broke out here after the corporation decreed that freemen not living in the borough should pay tolls and customs as foreigners and strangers. The non-resident freemen banded together and took the sovereign to law, but they were apparently beaten. The resident freemen were so pleased they rewarded the sovereign with £20 for his trouble, three livery cloaks and hats, and whatever he spent treating the corporation. That same year the Lord Lieutenant had to step in and compel the corporation to admit Roman Catholics to the offices of sovereign, portreeves, and burgesses, the same as anyone else. The trouble had been brewing for years. In 1673 several non-resident freemen had been ordered to pay quarterage until they came to dwell, and each had to pay 20 shillings for his freedom. Even residents had to pay for their freedom or give so many days of labour, with security for performance. The position of burgess was clearly worth fighting for. In 1726 Thomas Burgh of Oldtown spent £225, 3 shillings and 2 pence on his election, hiring coaches and horses to seal the deal.

38. Body-snatching led to watching over the dead at Naas

    Naas · town · Kildare

    An old inhabitant recalled that in his boyhood, owing to the prevalence of body-snatching, the dead had to be watched over, reflecting local burial customs and fears in Naas.

    Read the passage

    An old inhabitant tells me that in his boyhood, owing to the prevalence of body-snatching, the dead had to be watched over

    326

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 232

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, it is worth knowing that an old inhabitant recalled how, in his boyhood, the dead had to be watched over here, owing to the prevalence of body-snatching.

39. Carvings on the South Cross at Castledermot

    Castledermot · town · Kildare

    The South Cross at Castledermot bears eight subjects shared with the North Cross plus additional scenes including Noah entering the Ark, an Orante figure, and possibly Aeneas carrying Anchises, showing a blend of Christian and pagan iconography.

    Read the passage

    At the base of the shaft at the north side, the first subject we see is a favourite one in the Catacombs. It is named Orante in Italian. A figure standing upright, with arms outspread. This subject appears to be of Eastern origin, as we see a Madonna Orante standing thus, in has-reliej\ at Sta. Maria in Porta, in Eavenna, brought from the East at the time of the Crusades. Hr. Northcote, in his work on the Catacombs, associates this figure with the Good Shepherd as symbolising the relations of Christ with the Church.

    Next comes a subject difficult to decipher, unless it be the Pagan one of uElneas escaping from Troy, carrying his old father, Anchises, on his back. Legends of Pagan mythology have found their way into Christian art, such as Codrus, King of Athens, Semiramis, Cyrus, and others. It remains to be discovered whether the story of the escape from Troy was utilized in the same way.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 203

40. Danish plundering raid reaches Killashee area, 821

    Killashee · townland · Kildare · 821

    The Wars of the Gaedhil with the Gaill records a Danish fleet plundering numerous churches in 821, including Orllasaille (identified with Killashee) among many other Leinster monastic sites.

    Read the passage

    We read in the “ Wars of the Gaedhil with the Gaill,” under the date 821 : “ Anotlier fleet came to lly Cennselaegh, and they plundered Taghmon, and Teach Moling. By them were demolished Castledermot and Desert Tiprait, and they devastated Lismore, nnd burnt Cillmolash and Clonard. They plundered, also, Sord Columkille, Duleck Cianan, Slane, Orllasaille, Glendaloch, Cloyne, Mungret, and the greater part of the churches of Erin.” For Orllasaille, in the Brussels’ manuscript of this work, other manuscripts have Oellusaille. So the “ Book of Leinster,” and Keating, too, in his “ History.” And in the “ Annals of the Four Masters,” under the date 1035, “ Cill-uaille and Claonad (Clane) were plundered by the Danes, who were met by the son of Donough, son of Donnell, and defeated and slaughtered.”

    In the same “Annals” are given the names of two Abbots of Killashee — Maol Dohharchon, who died in 827, and Lomseach, son of Faoillen, who died in 870.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 17

41. Foundation of the Crouched Friary at Castledermot

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1199–1216

    A Priory of Crouched Friars (Trinitarians) under the invocation of St. John the Baptist was founded at Castledermot in the reign of King John by Walter de Riddlesford. The order was devoted to redeeming Christian captives and relieving the poor and sick.

    Read the passage

    In the reign of King John a Priory of Crouched Friars, or Trinitarians, under the invocation of St. John the Baptist, was founded here by Walter de Iliddlesford, lord of the town. — (Ware). It was situated without the town walls and adjoining the road which leads to Dublin. The Order of Trinitarians, for the redemption of Christian captives out of the hands of the infidels, was instituted by St. John de Matha and St. Felix de Valois, in 1197. They were called Cruciferi, anglicised Crouched or Crutched Friars, from the cross of blue and red which they wore on the breast of their white habit. To the present day, the place where their convent stood in London is called Crutched Friars. Besides the work of redeeming captives, they also devoted themselves to the relief of the poor and sick, and consec^uently the Houses of this Order were also for the most part hosjiitals. They made three portions of all their goods : one went to the redemption of captives, a second was devoted to the relief of the poor, and the remaining third was applied for their own subsistence.

    1531 A.D. — In this year the prior paid two marks proxies to the Archbishop of Dublin. — “ liarris’s Coll.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 263

42. Founding of Maynooth College by the ninth Earl

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1518–1521

    In 1518 Gerald, ninth Earl of Kildare, petitioned to found and endow a college at Maynooth; the licence was granted in 1521 and the Earl built the College, placing there a provost, priests, clerks and choristers to pray for his soul, calling it the College of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Maynooth.

    Read the passage

    In 1518, Gerald, ninth Earl of Kildare, petitioned the Archbishop of Dublin for licence to found and endow a college at Maynooth, for which purpose his fathers had assigned certain lands in the county of Meath. The licence was granted in 1521, and “the Erie then built the Collage in a most beautiful form, and placed ther a provost, vice-provost, five priests, two clerks, and three choristers, to pray for his soul, and the soul of his wife.” He required that the prebend of Maynooth and his successors should be provosts of the College, and receive their daily food there. This foundation was called the “ College of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Maynooth.”^ In 1537, the deputy Lord Leonard Grey,§ in a letter, dated from “ ye Kynges Castell of Meynoth,” describing an inroad on the country of the O’Connors, says : “ Owte of the seid abbj^e of Kyllegh I broght a peyer of orgons and other necessarie thinges for the Kynges collage of Maynoth, and as muche glas as glasid part of the

    * “ Red Book.” f “Hibernica,” p. 64.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 156

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Maynooth, this town holds the story of a college founded by Gerald, ninth Earl of Kildare. In 1518 he petitioned the Archbishop of Dublin for licence to found and endow a college here, on lands his fathers had assigned in county Meath. The licence came in 1521, and the Earl built the college, placing a provost, a vice-provost, five priests, two clerks, and three choristers there to pray for his soul and his wife's. He called it the College of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Maynooth, and required that the prebend of Maynooth and his successors serve as provosts, receiving their daily food there. In 1537 the deputy Lord Leonard Grey, writing from the King's Castle of Maynooth, reported he had brought a pair of organs and glass from the abbey of Killeigh for the King's college of Maynooth.

43. Investigation of the 'subterranean passage' myth at Jigginstown

    Jigginstown · townland · Kildare

    A local story claimed a subterranean passage existed at Jigginstown; on investigation the author found only a low, two-foot-high vaulted aperture that proved to be an old watercourse from a mill that once stood on the adjoining farm-house site.

    Read the passage

    Outside you will see the traces of the old Fish Pond, which most country houses possessed in olden times. It is probable that a range of terraces existed along the frontage of the house at this side, which is in accordance with the plan of such houses. I was informed that a subterranean passage existed here. Now stories about underground passages abound throughout the country, and must be received with caution. On my receiving the statement with some incredulity, my informant assured me that he had seen the entrance, and described the location with some minuteness. So, on the principle that tales about imaginary subterranean passages in no way weaken the evidence of real ones, I was determined to investigate it, and found a large vaulted aperture in the lower part of the wall in the laneway, but, after examination, it proved to be only two feet high, and merely an old watercourse from a mill which once existed on the site of the adjoining farm-house.

    I heard some one express astonishment that Strafford should build his castle so near the road and canal ! But I need hardly point out that the presence of a canal in those days would have astonished Strafford just as much as the person who made this remark.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, a local story claimed there was a subterranean passage. Stories about underground passages abound throughout the country, and must be received with caution. The author of this account was told about one at Jigginstown, and when he received the statement with some incredulity, his informant assured him that he had seen the entrance and described the location with some minuteness. So, on the principle that tales about imaginary subterranean passages in no way weaken the evidence of real ones, he was determined to investigate. He found a large vaulted aperture in the lower part of the wall in the laneway, but after examination it proved to be only two feet high, and merely an old watercourse from a mill which once existed on the site of the adjoining farm-house. Outside you can still see the traces of the old Fish Pond, which most country houses possessed in olden times. It is probable that a range of terraces existed along the frontage of the house at this side. Someone once expressed astonishment that Strafford should build his castle so near the road and canal, but the presence of a canal in those days would have astonished Strafford just as much.

44. Lord Offaly returned to Parliament for Athy, 1741

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1741–1744

    James, Lord Offaly of Carton, at only nineteen years of age, was returned to Parliament for Athy in October 1741 and sat until succeeding to the earldom in 1744.

    Read the passage

    We find Athy represented in Parliament as early as the second year of Elizabeth, 1560, and again in 1613. On the 17th October, 1741, James, Lord Offaly of Carton, being then only nineteen years of age, was returned to Parliament for Athy. He sat in the House of Commons until he succeeded to the earldom in 1744. In 1783 Lord Edward Fitzgerald was elected M.P. for Athy. A Court of Pecord was held at Athy until 1827, for determining pleas to any amount arising within the borough and its liberties, which extended half a mile in every direction from the White Castle. The town and castle of Atliy were the theatre of some of the military events of the seventeentli century. In 1642 tlie Eail of Ormonde arrived here with 3000 foot and 500 horse, and sent out parties to relieve tlie neighbouring garrisons of Carlow, Maryborough, Ballinakill, Bert, Clogrennan, and Ballyadams. In 1648, O’Neill and Preston, quondam companions-in-arms, were confronting each other as implacable enemies at the head of their respective armies. O’Neill’s troops held possession of Atliy, Pheban, and other adjoining strongholds, from which Preston set himself to dislodge them, whilst O’Neill, with the main body of his forces, was engaged in Ulster. Four companies of the Ulster troops, under O’Hagan, Con O’Neill, M‘Kenna, and O’Mellan, garrisoned the Castle and the Dominican Monastery when Preston sat down before the town. No one knew better than he that the place would never yield until resistance became utterly hopeless; he therefore lost no time in opening his battery against the Castle. His shot told with terrible effect, for after eighteen rounds the staircase was so damaged that the beseiged could not use it. O’Hagan, however, contrived to remedy this disaster by means of ladders from storey to storey, and no sooner was a breach made in the walls than he filled it up with hides, wool, and straw. Whenever an opportunity presented itself the Ulstermen sallied out by a postern, and so harassed Preston’s people that they had to betake themselves to the trenches for shelter. At length, seeing that he could not get the Castle, Preston shifted his position and levelled his guns against the Dominican Monastery which had been evacuated by Con O’Neill. Father Thomas Bermingham, the Prior, planted a large cross on the bell-tower, imagining that the holy symbol would induce Preston to spare the place. He was deceived, however ; Preston battered down the belfiy, and finally took the monastery by assault. Meantime, intelligence of these events reached O’Neill in Munster ; he immediately sent reinforcements for the garrison of Athy. Advancing by rapid marches, he fell unexpectedly on a detach-

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 52

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Athy, you are on ground that sent members to Parliament as far back as 1560, the second year of Elizabeth, and again in 1613. On the 17th of October 1741, James, Lord Offaly of Carton, being then only nineteen years of age, was returned to Parliament for Athy. He sat in the House of Commons until he succeeded to the earldom in 1744. The town later elected Lord Edward Fitzgerald as its member in 1783, and a Court of Record was held here until 1827, determining pleas to any amount arising within the borough and its liberties, which extended half a mile in every direction from the White Castle.

45. Naas spared from burning by Ormonde during the 1641 rebellion

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1641–1647

    During the rebellion of 1641-47 Naas was taken many times but never besieged. In 1642 it was spared from burning by Ormonde because it was deemed capable of being fortified, though it was never actually fortified with walls after that date.

    Read the passage

    built or repaired from that date (1569) to this. During the rebellion of 1641-47 Naas was many times taken, but there is no record of its having been beseiged. In 1642 it was spared from burning by Ormonde owing to its having been deemed capable of being fortified, but certainly it was never fortified, in the sense of being surrounded by walls, after that date. In 1680 two of its gates were pulled down (Corbin’s Gate and North Gate), which looks as if all pretensions to the maintenance of Naas as a fortress had been abandoned.

    Neither have I been able to find any traces of town walls of any strengtli or tliickness. Many of tlie walls, especially at back of Doran’s Hotel, about St. David’s Castle, and near the North Moat, are unusually high, but they have no appearance of antiquity and are many of them lined with brick, evidently for use as garden walls.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 227

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Naas, in Kildare. During the rebellion of 1641 to 1647, Naas was taken many times but was never besieged. In 1642 Ormonde spared the town from burning because it was thought capable of being fortified, though it was never actually given walls after that. By 1680, two of its gates, Corbin's Gate and North Gate, were pulled down, as if any pretension to keeping Naas as a fortress had been abandoned. No traces of town walls of any strength or thickness have ever been found. Some of the high walls around St. David's Castle and the North Moat turn out to be garden walls, lined with brick.

46. Rebellion of 1641 devastates Naas district

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1641–1642

    During the 1641 rebellion, Naas and its neighbourhood suffered greatly as opposing forces subsisted by plundering the countryside. Naas became a key rebel meeting place for councils of war among County Kildare gentry.

    Read the passage

    of Lyons, and the town of Naas, were known to serve as receptacles for the rebels, the last especially being the principal place for meeting and holding councils of war, composed of the prime gentlemen of the County Kildare, for applotting their levies of men money and victuals upon the country for the maintenance of the rebel forces, and for issuing of their orders.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

    As the companion tells it

    Naas, the town you are passing through, was the principal meeting place for rebels during the 1641 rising. The prime gentlemen of County Kildare gathered here for councils of war, applotting levies of men, money, and victuals upon the surrounding country to maintain their forces, and issuing their orders from the town.

47. Ancient Armour Unearthed near Kilteel Castle

    Kilteel · parish · Kildare · 1833–1891

    A gentleman in the neighbourhood witnessed the digging up of an ancient suit of armour on land near the ruin of Kilteel Castle, as reported in an 1833 newspaper sketch. The author later visited the castle in December 1891 to measure and draw the ruin.

    Read the passage

    In Tlte Dublin Denny Journal of Oct. 19, 1833, there is a sketch of Kilteel Castle, by B. Wright. It states in the article that a gentleman in the neighbourhood was present when an ancient suit of armour was dug up on some part of the land in the immediate vicinity of the ruin. The account in the Dublin Denny Journal is very vague, and gives nothing definite about the old castle. However, having searched for all information I could, I determined to go and see the place for myself. On December 20, 1891, I, in company with a friend, visited Kilteel old castle, and while I was making notes and taking measurements, he made a few drawings of the old place. The castle stands in a grove of trees on the left of the road as you come from Dublin, and consists of a tower twenty-six feet eight by twenty feet six and a-half, and forty-six feet high. On the north side a little round turret, containing a staircase to reach the r.pper floors of the castle, abuts the angle of the castle itself ; next to this is tlie gateway.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

48. Athy Castle built and later inscribed, 1575

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1506–1575

    The castle at Athy, ascribed to the 8th Earl of Kildare around 1506, was repaired and enlarged in 1575; a surviving embattled tower bears the Fitzgerald arms and a Latin inscription naming Richard Cossen, Governor of Athy.

    Read the passage

    Ricardus Cossen, Prepositus villae DE Athie, posuit hunc lapidem,

    VIGESIMO SEPTIMO MENSIS JuNII,

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 51

    As the companion tells it

    Passing through Athy in Kildare, you're near a castle ascribed to the 8th Earl of Kildare around 1506. It was repaired and enlarged in 1575. A surviving embattled tower still bears the Fitzgerald arms and a Latin inscription naming Richard Cossen, Governor of Athy, who placed the stone on the 27th of June.

49. Baptism of the Sons of Dunlaing at Naas

    Naas · town · Kildare · 431–461

    St. Patrick preached in North Leinster, and the sons of Dunlaing, rulers who lived at Naas, accepted his teaching and were baptised in a fountain near the north side of the town. This event is recorded in the Tripartite Life of St. Patrick.

    Read the passage

    After describing St. Patrick’s Journey through Ply Garchon (the district near the present town of Wicklow), and the success of his preaching in North Leinster — for the sons of Dunlaing who held rule there, and lived at Naas, accepted his teaching and were baptised in a fountain near the north side of the town — the author of the “ Tripartite Life ” continues : “ Going on from that he came to a beauteous plain, the boundary of which the river Litfey flows by, and for this reason it is called Magh Life, i.e. the plain of the Litfey. In that district he laid the foundations of several churches, and marked out their termons. These churches he set his disciples over to complete and govern. He left St. Auxilius in the church commonly called Killuassuille, having got that name from him ; he left SS. Isserninus and Macatalius in Kilcullen, and other holy men in others.” And the “ Book of Armagh ” : “ He went into the plain of the Litfey and ordained Auxilius who, when a boy, had been the exorcist of Patrick, and Isserninus and Mactaleus in the little cell of Cuillinn, i.e. Kilcullen. Ussher thinks Auxilius was consecrated bishop in 448. In the list of those bishops consecrated by St. Patrick, given in the ‘‘ Book of Armagh,” He Episcoporum numero quos ordinavit in Hibernia ccccl., the names of Auxilius and Secundinus are given. From this and other passages already quoted, the conclusion has been drawn, and fairly as it seems, that Auxilius was ordained by St. Patrick himself. A difficulty arises, however, from the passage in the “Annals of Inisfallen,” under the date 439, “Secundinus, Auxilius, et Isserninus Episcopi mittuntur in auxilium Patricii : ” from which it is inferred that they were bishops when they were sent to help him. “ The most satisfactory mode,” says Hr. Lanigan, “ that I can discover for reconciling these authorities is, that St. Patrick finding himself in want of episcopal helpers,

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 15

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Naas, this is where the sons of Dunlaing held rule and lived. They were the rulers of North Leinster, and when St. Patrick preached there sometime between 431 and 461, they accepted his teaching and were baptised in a fountain near the north side of the town. The story is recorded in the Tripartite Life of St. Patrick. After the baptism at Naas, the Tripartite Life says Patrick went on from there and came to a beauteous plain, the boundary of which the river Liffey flows by, and for this reason it is called Magh Life, the plain of the Liffey. In that district he laid the foundations of several churches and marked out their termons. He set his disciples over these churches to complete and govern them. He left St. Auxilius in the church commonly called Killuassuille, taking that name from him. He left SS. Isserninus and Macatalius in Kilcullen, and other holy men in others. The Book of Armagh says he went into the plain of the Liffey and ordained Auxilius, who when a boy had been the exorcist of Patrick, and Isserninus and Mactaleus in the little cell of Cuillinn, that is Kilcullen. Ussher thinks Auxilius was consecrated bishop in 448. The Book of Armagh lists the number of bishops Patrick ordained in Ireland as 450, and among them gives the names of Auxilius and Secundinus. But the Annals of Inisfallen, under the date 439, say Secundinus, Auxilius, and Isserninus, bishops, are sent to help Patrick, which would mean they were already bishops when sent. Mr. Lanigan's way of reconciling these accounts is that Patrick, finding himself in want of episcopal helpers,

50. Baron of Burnchurch seized and imprisoned at Beerdy's Castle

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1532

    Around 1532, a Fitz Gerald baron travelling to Dublin was seized near Castledermot and taken to Beerdy's Castle in the heart of County Kildare, where irons from Kilkea manor were used to bind him.

    Read the passage

    In Yol. II., p. 157, of the Irish State Papers of Henry YIII.’s time, it is stated that one of the Pitz Geralds of Gurteen, styled Baron of Burnchiirch {alias Kiltrany), in the Co. Kilkenny, when proceeding to Dnhlin, was seized about the year 1532 by McEnecrosse, a servant to Gerald, the ninth Earl of Kildare. The baron was made prisoner close to the gates of Castledermot, and “conveyed further into the heart of the county of Kildare, to a castle called Beerdy’s Castle, and irons brought out of the said earl’s own manor of Kilkea, to make fast the Baron.”

    In Morin’s Calendar of Patent Polls I find in the year 1594 the towns, lands, customs, commons, and hereditaments of Beardth and Newtown were granted to Gerrott Mackworth. — AYaltek Eitz Gerald.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 108

51. Carton and the old Castle of Maynooth as FitzGerald family seat since 1176

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1176

    The Duke of Leinster went to live at Carton, near the old Castle of Maynooth, which had been one of the principal seats of his family since 1176 when it was built by Maurice FitzGerald.

    Read the passage

    On the death of his father in 1887, and when he was 36 years of age, he succeeded to the dukedom, and at once set himself conscientiously to fulfil the duties of his high position, managing liis large possessions with wisdom and cliarity. He tlien went to live at Carton, near the old Castle of Maynooth, whicli had been one of the principal seats of his family since the 3^ear 1176, when it was built by Maurice FitzGrerald.

    Ireland, at the time when the Duke entered on the management of his affairs, had been for some time virtually in a state of revolution, and the crisis that seems to have been so wisely met by the Duke and by his father, is an important feature, not only in tlieir individual history, but in that of our country. The Duke’s desire was the promotion of the real welfare of all with whom he had to do, and in the end there was no friction or unpleasantness with his tenantry. Although holding tlie highest position in this country, he was easily approached, and anxious in the smallest detail of life to do what was best in the sight of God and fair and just to his fellow-men. It was this power of simple goodness which overcame difficulties that would seem insuperable when we recall the political events of the past fifteen years. The kindly spirit in which the crisis was met by the Duke, his consideration and the general tendency he displayed to subordinate his own interests to those of his tenantry, must always be remembered to his honour.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 114

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Maynooth, where the old Castle of Maynooth had been one of the principal seats of the FitzGerald family since 1176, when it was built by Maurice FitzGerald. In 1887, on the death of his father, the Duke of Leinster succeeded to the dukedom at 36 years of age and went to live at Carton, near that old castle. He set himself to manage his large possessions with what the record calls wisdom and charity. Ireland at that time had been virtually in a state of revolution, and the crisis was an important feature not only in the Duke's history but in that of the country. His desire was the promotion of the real welfare of all with whom he had to do, and in the end there was no friction or unpleasantness with his tenantry. Though holding the highest position, he was easily approached, and anxious in the smallest detail of life to do what was best in the sight of God and fair and just to his fellow-men. The kindly spirit in which the crisis was met, his consideration, and his tendency to subordinate his own interests to those of his tenantry, must always be remembered to his honour.

52. Castledermot garrisoned during Silken Thomas's Rebellion

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1534

    During the rebellion of Silken Thomas, Earl of Kildare, Castledermot was garrisoned by his Irish allies but was taken in the King's name by Piers, Earl of Ossory, in 1534.

    Read the passage

    1534 A.D. — During the Pebellion of Silken Thomas, Earl of Kildare, Castledermot was garrisoned by his Irish allies, but was taken in the King’s name by Piers, Earl of Ossory. This Piers was, in 1540, appointed Constable of the Castle of Tristledermot. Eight years later Edward O’Loyne was Constable. In Morrill’s Calendar (Pat. Polls) we find, on the 1 9th Februaiy, 1548, pardon of Edward O’Loyue, Constable of the Castle of

    370 CASTLEDERArOT : ITS HISTORY AND ANTIQUITIES.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 262

53. Castledermot's ancient names trace from St. Diarmaid's hermitage

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 800–1182

    Castledermot, on the River Lerr, was anciently called Disert Diarmada (later Tristledermot), meaning St. Diarmaid's Hermitage, after the saint who founded a monastery there around 800 AD. The name changed again after the Norman invasion, likely from the castle built there in 1182 by Hugh de Lacy.

    Read the passage

    Castledermot is situated on tlie River Rerr, eiglit miles to the soutli-east of Atliy, in tlie southern extremity ottlie county. Its ancient name was Disert Diarmada, wliicli in time became corrupted to Tristle Diarmada, l)otli of wliicli menu 8t. Dijirmaid’s Hermitage. The name underwent a third changes sliortly after the Norman invasion of Ireland, wliicli took place in 1170, when it became to be called (Jastlederniot, probably from the castle built there in 1182 by Hugh do Lacy, tliougli old histories still for long after often used the former names ; the ancient name of the district round was Hy Muireadhaigh, or Omurethy, which belonged to the Clan O’Toole. Disert Diarmada was the name given to the place in the ninth century from a 8t. Diermaid, grandson of Aedh Roin, King of Ulster, who founded a monastery there in or about the year 800. His death is thus noticed in the “Annals of the Four Masters”: — “The age of Christ 823, Diarmaid, grandson of Aedh Roin, who was an anchorite, and a distinguished doctor, died.” The “ Martyrology of Donegal” records his festival on the 21st of June, as follows: — “Diarmaid, grandson of Aedli Roin, Bishop of Disert Diarmada, in Leinster. He is of the race of Fiatach Finn, monarch of Erin.”

    Two more extracts will be given from the “ Annals,” one is : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 60

54. Cross-legged Knight Effigy in Timolin Churchyard

    Timolin · townland · Kildare · 1180–1220

    A recumbent monumental effigy of an armoured knight survives at Timolin, Co. Kildare, dated by its mail hood, prick spurs and shield devices to the extreme end of the twelfth century. The identity of the person represented is unknown, but the monument is argued to be the work of native Irish sculptors using local limestone rather than imported English craftsmen.

    Read the passage

    The coif continuous witli the hauherk is to be found as early as in the Bayeux Tapestry ; it remained in general use up to tlie middle of tlie twelfth century, and was overlapped and finally supplanted by the separate mail hood. The early siircote, like that now under notice, was scanty in the skirt, ami practicable compared with those of the fourteenth century with their voluminous folds, when men suddenly called upon to fight on foot got their legs entangled in the ample draperies, and fell an easy prey to the enemy. The mail of the cliansses is of large size and characteristic, like the treatment and style of the prick spurs, of the sculpture of the extreme end of the twelfth century, the period to which the effigy must be attributed. It will be noticed that the mail hood takes its particular shape on the head from the iron skull-cap worn under it. This arrangement was the immediate successor of the conical helmets which had been in use since the Conquest, such as may be seen in their latest forms with or without a nasal respectively, in the first and second great seals of Henry II. The great seal of John shows a head-piece like that in the Timolin ethgy. Its precise period can, therefore, be ascertained from the form of the liead-])iece alone. As to the shield, it is of the very interesting transition period when fanciful devices were changing into heraldry with definite hereditaiy charges. The devices are too crude and early to surrender with readiness to the scientific description of a herald. I'he narrow bar and semicin^le are, perhaps^ mere survivals of the strengthening bands of shields of a more remote period. Whether these features — these early dawnings of heraldry — developed later into the distinctive bearings of a family we liave at present no evidence to show, nor, indeed, any clue as to who is represented by this very interesting figure.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 100

55. Danish devastations at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    Kildare suffered devastation from Danish raids more often than any other place, which may have prompted the removal of St. Brigid's relics to Down to preserve them.

    Read the passage

    I am aware that some have held she was buried at Downpatrick immediately after her death ; but that can hardly be, from what I liave said above. Except by the fact of her relics being preserved at Kildare, it is impossible to account for the vast crowds, the numberless multitudes, that came there from all tlie provinces of Ireland on her feast day, some for the plentiful banquets given them ; others who were sick and diseased, coming to get back their health ; others with gifts. All these came on the 1st of February, the day she cast olf the burthen of the flesh, and followed the Lamb of Grod to the heavenly dwelling.” So Cogitosus. Later, very possibly to preserve lier relics from the devastations of the Danes, from wliich Kildare seemed to have suffered oftener than any other })hice, they may have been removed to Down. Colgan thinks the removal may have taken place in the ninth century ; and so the words of the distych would be verified —

    Hi tres in Duno tumiilo tiimulantiir in uno,

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 124

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Kildare, the town that suffered more often than any other place from the devastations of the Danes. In the early centuries after her death, St. Brigid's relics were preserved here, and vast crowds came from all the provinces of Ireland on the 1st of February, some for banquets, some for healing, some with gifts. A writer called Cogitosus recorded those multitudes. Later, possibly to protect her relics from the Danish raids, they may have been removed to Down. Colgan thought that removal may have taken place in the 9th century. So many invasions swept through this town that the remains of Ireland's foremost female saint could no longer be safely kept here.

56. Death of Edward Bruce near Faughart

    Faughart · parish · Louth · 1318

    The site near Fochart where Edward Bruce was slain in 1318 is noted as close to the traditional birthplace of St. Brigid.

    Read the passage

    The pedigree of St. Brigid is given in the Book of Leinster. She was the daughter of Dubtach, son of Demri, son of Bresil, son of Den, son of Conla, son of Art Corb, son of Cairbre, son of Cormac, son of Enghus Mean, son of Eochaidh Finn, son of Feidlimidh Eechtmar, who was ardrigh or chief monarch of Ireland, a.d. 111. Her father is said to have been a great and mighty chief. Dux magnus et potens. Dr. Todd gives her genealogy and that of St. Columba, and shows they were descended from a common ancestor, Ugony Mor, supreme monarch of Ireland a.m. 4546. Her mother, Brotseach, is said to have been a slave ; but it is far more probable that she too was of noble birth, being the daughter of Dallbronach of the Dail Concobair in South Bregia. The Martijrology of Donegal says St. Ultan of Ardbraccan was her brother. Her birthplace was Fochart Muirthemhne, now Fochart, which is three miles north-west of Dundalk ; the dun there was possibly the site of her father’s dwelling. There are remains of an old church dedicated to her, and close by is a holy well bearing her name, surmounted by a conical roof. Whether this building is of very remote date I cannot say, not having yet seen it. A stone, too, is pointed out in which it is said she was laid immediately after her birth. Such another stone we find at Gartan, the birthplace of St. Columba. The people of Donegal think that by lying on it before they set out for a foreign land, they will be freed from all danger of home-sickness. St. Bernard, in his Life of St. Malachy, makes mention of “ the village of Fochart, which they say is the birthplace of Brigid the virgin.” This is close to the spot where Edward Bruce was slain in the year 1318.

    Her parents wished to give her in marriage to a chief who sought her as wife. But she desired to devote herself wholly to

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 124

57. Discovery of bronze ecclesiastical bell near Castledermot

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1863–1889

    In 1863 labourers digging in a field near Castledermot found an old Irish ecclesiastical bronze bell, which passed through several owners before coming into the possession of the Leinster family and being preserved at Kilkea Castle in 1889.

    Read the passage

    In 1863 some labourers dug up in a field near the town a very interesting relic of the past — namely, an old Irish ecclesiastical bell of bronze. It is of the usual oblong shape, with some attempt at ornamentation in the casting ; it is 6|- inches high, and measures at the base 4J inches by 3 inches. The finders sold it to a pedlar, who re-sold it to a Mr. Glennon in Dublin ; from him it was purchased by Mr. Robert Day of Cork, and, finally and happily, it came in 1889, into the possession of the Leinster family, and is preserved at Kilkea Castle.

    378 CASTLEDEKMOT : ITS HISTORY AND ANTIQUITIES.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 266

58. Earl of Essex garrisons Naas before failed campaign

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1599

    In 1599, Robert, Earl of Essex, having arrived in Ireland with limited resources, sent a detachment to garrison Naas before proceeding westward with 7000 men on his ultimately unsuccessful expedition.

    Read the passage

    1599. — Robert, Earl of Essex, having arrived in Ireland on 1st hlay, without much wealth, arms, etc., sent a detachment to garrison Naas, before proceeding westwards with his 7000 picked men on his unsuccessful expedition.

    August 12, 1600. — The Lord Deputy passed through Naas ■on his way to Queen’s County, and returned on 25th August to Naas, now garrisoned with 700 men.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 132

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, this is the town Robert, Earl of Essex garrisoned in 1599. He arrived in Ireland on the 1st of May without much wealth or arms, and sent a detachment here before marching westward with 7000 picked men on an expedition that failed. By August 1600 the Lord Deputy passed through Naas, then held by a garrison of 700 men.

59. Founding of the Order of Crouched Friars at St John's, Athy

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1253

    In 1253 the Order of Crouched Friars, or Friars of the Holy Cross, was founded at St John's by Richard of St Michael, Lord of Itheban, taking its name from an embroidered cross worn on their habit. This monastery, along with a Dominican house on the east side of the river, is believed to have originated the town of Athy at its important ford.

    Read the passage

    Ot. John’s, tliat portion of Athy which has fallen to me O briefly to describe, does not look very presentable now, its glories having somewhat departed with the lapse of years, but it had its part in local history. In 1253 the Order of Crouched Friars, or Friars of the Holy Cross, was founded here by Eiehard of St. Michael, Lord of Itheban. The designation came from an embroidered cross worn on the habit by the members. This monastery, with another which was founded at the east side of the river by the Dominican Order about the same period, originated, it is believed, the town at the important pass or ford of Athy, which locality figured in many of the aneient strifes chronicled by the ‘‘Annals of the Four Masters ” and others.

    Some of the remaining walls of St. John’s churchyard, it is probable, belonged to the old abbey. The precincts of tlie monastery extended over St. John’s and the vicinity, which was at one time a much more important part of the town than it appears at present. At the dissolution of the monasteries, 1575, the Priory of St. John’s and its appurtenances were granted to Anthony Power. The lands subsequently reverted to the Crown, and were granted by Act of Parliament to Mary, daughter of Robert King, and wife of Sir William Meredith, of Green Hills, county Kildare. This refers to Green Plills, where the sehools of the Christian Brothers are located just adjacent. There is a monument to one of the same Meredith family in St. Patrick’s, Dublin.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 85

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Athy, you are moving through a place that grew up around two monasteries at an important ford. In 1253 the Order of Crouched Friars, or Friars of the Holy Cross, was founded here at St John's by Richard of St Michael, Lord of Itheban. They took their name from an embroidered cross worn on the habit. This monastery, together with a Dominican house founded on the east side of the river around the same period, is believed to have given rise to the town of Athy itself. The locality figured in many of the ancient strifes recorded by the Annals of the Four Masters and others. Some of the remaining walls of St John's churchyard probably belonged to the old abbey. The precincts of the monastery once extended over St John's and the vicinity, which was at one time a much more important part of the town than it appears now. At the dissolution of the monasteries in 1575, the Priory of St John's and its appurtenances were granted to Anthony Power. The lands later reverted to the Crown and were granted by Act of Parliament to Mary, daughter of Robert King and wife of Sir William Meredith of Green Hills in county Kildare. A monument to one of the Meredith family stands in St Patrick's in Dublin.

60. Fraudulent levy of wheat at Timolin and Naas

    Timolin · townland · Kildare · 1373

    In 1373, an inquisition found that the Lord Lieutenant William de Wyndesore had imposed an unlawful wheat levy on the Commons of Meath at Timolin, carrying it to Naas where it was undervalued, defrauding Meath through excessive measure.

    Read the passage

    1373. — Inquisition held on complaint that William de Wyndesore, the Lord Lieutenant, had, at Tameline (Timolin), imposed a talliage on the Commons of Meath of a crannock (16 bushels or 2 quarters) of wheat on each of 520 carrucates of land, and carried it to Naas, where it was valued at 2s. 8d. less than its value in Meath, and appropriated to the Lord Lieutenant’s own use. John Hoke, who received the wheat at Naas, measured it by excessive measure, thereby defrauding Meath of one bushel per crannock.

    1409. — A deed was registered appointing a charter to Naas.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 129