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

Grant of Maynooth Manor and building of the Castle

Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1176

In 1176 the Manor of Maynooth was granted by Strongbow to Maurice FitzGerald, who erected the Castle for protection against native incursions, at the junction of the river Lyreen and another stream.

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In 1176, the Manor of Maynooth was granted by Stronghow to Maurice FitzGerald, who erected the Castle for protection against the incursions of the natives, at the junction of the river Lyreen and another smaller stream.
His son Gerald, first Baron of Offaly, obtained from John, Lord of Ireland, son to Henry II., a new grant of sundry lordships, including those of ‘‘Magnoded, Lathrebryn, and Tactou.’’+

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 155

As the companion tells it

Coming through Maynooth in Kildare. In 1176 the manor was granted by Strongbow to Maurice FitzGerald, who erected the castle for protection against the incursions of the natives, at the junction of the river Lyreen and another stream. His son Gerald, first Baron of Offaly, obtained from John, Lord of Ireland, son of Henry II, a new grant of sundry lordships.

James FitzGerald outlawed for 1641 rebellion, property confiscated

Lackagh · parish · Kildare · 1641

James FitzGerald of Lackagh took part in the 1641 rebellion and was indicted for high treason on 23rd October 1641, his property being confiscated to the Crown as a result.

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Jdntea Fitz Gerald took part in the rebellion of 1641, and on the 23rd October in that year he was indicted for high treason and Ids property confiscated to the Crown. The rebellion in the first instance broke out in the North of Ireland, and spread rapidly into the other three provinces. It was caused by discontent brought about by the wholesale confiscation of property belonging to the native Irish and its division among hostile strangers, and also to a very great degree by the growing power of the Puritans whose aim Avas the suppression of the Eoman Catholic religion. Consequently the old Anglo-Irish families joined their co-religionists in the struggle for liberty, and if internal dissensions and jealousies had not later on caused a split in the Confederate ranks the result might not haA^e been so disastrous to Ireland.*
* Gilbert, in the Appendix to his “History of tlie Confederation and AVar in Ireland,” publishes from a MS. in the British 'Museum a list of persons outlawed at this time for high-treason ; from this list I have selected the names of the heads of the principal FitzGerald families in the county Kildare alone, whose properties were confiscated for participation in this rebellion : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

Legend of the hidden silver bells of Moone Abbey in the Buggawn

Moone · townland · Kildare

A local tradition holds that the silver bells of Moone Abbey were hidden in the 'Buggawn,' a marshy piece of land adjoining the river near the abbey.

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There is a tradition that the bells of tlie abbey (said to have been silver) were hidden in the “ Buggawn,” a marshy piece of land adjoining the river, and close to the abbey.
The old name of the monastery was “ Moin Cholumcill,” Moin, Mone, Mugna, are all Irish words, signifying a marsh or bog.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 209

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, tradition says the silver bells of Moone Abbey were hidden in the Buggawn, a marshy stretch of land adjoining the river near the abbey. The old name for the monastery was Moin Cholumcill, and those Irish words all mean a marsh or bog.

Mint established and Parliament held at Castledermot in 1477

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1477

A mint was established at Castledermot and a Parliament is also said to have been held there in 1477.

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1477 A.D. — A mint was established, and a Parliament also is said to have been held here this year.
An undated letter amongst the Carew mss. refers to the presence of King Pichard II. at Castledermot. It is from Lord Nellan O’Neyll to the King — the last time he was with the King at Tristledermot, the King conferred many honours on him, and commanded him, immediately after Easter, to repair to the King — is unable to come to the King’s presence this time, owing to the great and troublesome affairs and grievances, because the King’s grant to liim is not observed, that he should have buying and selling in the King’s markets and towns.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 261

Origin of the name Athy from the ford battles

Athy · town · Kildare · 111–119

Athy, called At-aol or 'the Ford of Ae', derived its name from a battle in which a Munster chief named Ae was slain at a ford on the Barrow, following an earlier defeat at Ath-Truisden near Mullaghmast.

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the Munstermen were defeated. They retreated to the Barrow, where, at another ford, a second battle took place, with a similar result, and in which a Munster chief named Ae, the foster father of Oliy Finn Fohart, was slain, and from him the place was called Ath-I, that is, “ the Ford of Ae.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 49

As the companion tells it

Coming up now is Athy, on the River Barrow. Its name comes from a Munster chief called Ae, the foster father of Oliy Finn Fohart. The Munstermen had been defeated and retreated to a ford here on the Barrow, where a second battle ended the same way and Ae was slain. The place took his name, Ath-I, "the Ford of Ae."

Recovery of the Inscription by an Old Gossoon's Memory

Maynooth · town · Kildare

The stone bearing the 1630 inscription had weathered badly, but when the Marquis of Kildare tried to decipher it, an old man who had learned it as dictation at school in Maynooth was able to recite it word for word.

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* The stone on which this inscription was cut is of a had, pealing quality, and when the Marquis of Kildare (afterwards fourth Duke of Leinster) was trying to decipher it, he found that only a word here and there was legihle. But while so occupied, an old man came up and said he could repeat the inscription word for word, as, when a gossoon at school in Maynooth, the master frequently used it for dictation, and so it became firmly impressed in his mind. Hence its recovery. — Walter FitzGerald.
t A catalogue (now among the MSS. in the British Museum) of the library of Gerald Earl of Kildare, in 1526, contains the names of thirty-four works in Latin, thirty-seven in French, twenty-two in English, and fourteen in Irish.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 164

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Maynooth, the town the road passes through. There was a stone here with an inscription cut in 1630, but the stone was poor quality and had weathered badly. When the Marquis of Kildare, who later became the fourth Duke of Leinster, tried to decipher it, he could make out only a word here and there. Then an old man came up and said he could repeat the whole thing word for word. He told the Marquis that when he was a gossoon at school in Maynooth, the master had used the inscription regularly for dictation, and so it had become firmly fixed in his mind. That is how the inscription was recovered.

Robert Clifford appointed porter of Kilteel Commandery, 1335

Kilteel · parish · Kildare · 1335

In 1335 the Prior of Kilmainham appointed Robert Clifford porter of the Kilteel Commandery, granting him clothing and half a mark sterling for shoes, with an apartment beyond the castle gate that he was to repair at his own cost.

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“ The Prior of Kilmainham appointed Kohert Clifford porter of the Commandery, at the same time ordering him a proper clotliing and half a marc sterling for shoes ; and if he should choose to diet in his cliamher lie should have the apartment beyond the gate of the Castle, but which he was to repair at his own cost and charge.”
I fear Clifford did not repair his apartment, as one can see no trace of it now, being most likely built over by the present more modern buildings now in ruins.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 32

Roman coin of Nemausus found at Nurney

Nurney · town · Kildare

A Roman coin depicting a crocodile chained to a tree, struck at the colony of Nemausus (Nimes) in Gaul, was found at Nurney, Co. Kildare, and was in the possession of the Most Rev. Dr. Comerford. The coin is attributed to the time of Augustus based on its imagery and inscription.

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Description of a Coin found at Niirney, Co. Kildare.* — On tlie obverse are two heads, back to back, with the legend IMP . Divi . F. The reverse displays a crocodile, chained to a tree, the letters col. nem on either side.
This coin was struck at the Roman colony of Nemansus, in Gaul, now Nimes. The fabulous history of this ancient city ascribes its foundation to Hercules, from whose son, Nemausus, it received its name. The two heads represent, most probably, Julius Coesar and Augustus; and the inscription would appear

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 103

Sigginstown chosen for cessation negotiations, 1643

Sigginstown · townland · Wexford · 1643

The Lords Justices arranged for the Irish Commissioners to meet Ormonde on 17th August 1643 at Sigginstown, near Naas, to negotiate a cessation of hostilities, which was signed the following month.

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The Lords Justices, seeing that they must arrange a cessation of hostilities, notified the Irish Commissioners to meet Ormonde on the 17th August, 1643, at Sigginstown, near Naas, for that purpose. The Irish agents having modified their former demands, tlie cessation was signed on 15th September, 1643.
Sir Philip Percival, of Castlewarning (Castle Warden), in the County Kildare, in his vindication of the cessation of 1643, mentions that, at that time, the garrison of the Naas, one of the chief garrisons of Leinster, where 1000 men had been usually kept, was so ruined and the soldiers become so naked and miserable that, as Sir Fulk Huncks, the governor, related, many of them were starved, and the rest in such distress as raised the pity of everyone that saw them.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 139

Slaying of McGrath and wife at Disert Diarmada

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1042

McGrath, son of Gorman MacFrassy, lord of Ui-Bairrche, and his wife were slain at Disert Diarmada by the Ui Baillain.

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1042 A.D. — McGrath, son of Gorman MacFrassy, lord of Ui-Bairrche, and his wife were slain here by the Ui Baillain. —Id.
1048 A.D. — Maein Cliolium-chille, Disert Diarmada, Moghnamoshenog, and Cluinmor-maedhog (/. e. IMoone, Castledermot, Dunmanoge, and Cloninore) were plundered by Diarmaid, son of Mael-na-mbo, lord of lli-Cinseallaigh, and he carried many persons away from these oratories. — Id.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 259

St. Brigid's birth-stone at Faughart

Faughart · parish · Louth

A stone is pointed out at Fochart in which it is said St. Brigid was laid immediately after her birth, paralleling a similar stone associated with St. Columba at Gartan.

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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

Stocks used for punishment before the Town-Hall

Naas · town · Kildare

The stocks were located in front of the present Town-Hall on a raised platform, where culprits were secured by one leg as a form of public punishment.

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I am told the stocks were in front of the present Town-Hall on a raised platform. Culprits were secured in them by one leg.
In 1561 William Florence was constable of the castle of Naas. (He, in 1569, 31st October, received a lease of a great stone house covered with tiles, and a castle in Naas, &c. maintaining an English archer. Tlie same premises were let afterwards up to 1611 to Anthony Power, not to be let to any but English, and not to charge Coyne.)

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 235

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Naas, the old Town-Hall marks where the stocks once stood on a raised platform. Culprits were secured there by one leg for public punishment. In 1561 William Florence was constable of the castle of Naas.

Symbolism carved on the North Cross panels at Castledermot

Castledermot · town · Kildare

The section describes biblical and iconographic subjects carved on the North Cross at Castledermot, including Daniel in the lions' den, the miracle of loaves and fishes, and Melchisedek before Abraham, drawing parallels to Byzantine and Catacomb art traditions.

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Daniel in tlie den of lions is the special symbol (along with tbe three children in the furnace) used in the art of the Catacombs to signify triumph over suffering. In the “ Mount Athos Guide” it is directed that he should stand in the midst of seven lions, as we see him on the cross at Moone, as stated in the Apocryphal book, Bel and the Dragon, verse 32. In the “ Biblia Pauperum ” this is a type of Christ’s resurrection and triumpli over death.
The figure head-downmost, between two soldiers, may signify the martyrdom of St. Peter, as prescribed by the ‘‘ Mount Athos Guide” — “St. Peter crucified upside down — his head down, his feet upwards — soldiers encircle him : some nail his hands, others his feet.”*

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 202

The Eustace Altar-Tomb sculptures at New Abbey

New Abbey · street · Kildare

The sides of the Eustace Altar-Tomb at New Abbey, near Kilcullen Bridge, are described in detail, correcting earlier misidentifications; the panel called an 'Irish peasant' is actually a Franciscan nun, and the 'two heralds' are St. Catherine and St. Bridget. The tomb sides are now built into the churchyard wall, safe but much hidden.

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The sides of the Eustace Tomb are now built into the wall surrounding the churchyard, where they are safe, though much hidden. The panel, containing the female described as “an Irish peasant,” is in reality intended for a nun of the Franciscan Order; while “the two heralds in the dress of their office ” are, in fact, St. Catherine and St. Bridget (?). The former saint holds a sword in her right hand, and a small spiked wheel in her left — the emblems of her martyrdom. Tim other female figure, like St. Catherine, is crowned, and standing ; she holds a book in the right hand, and in the left a cross-topped staff, the butt of which pierces the mouth of a dragon lying at her feet. Can this be St. Bridget ?
The subjects in the other panels are — the Queen of Heaven and Child ; the emblems of the Passion and Crucifixion on a shield, supported by angels ; a Franciscan Monk ; and a shield, bearing a coat-ofarms, quartered ; — 1 and 4. Or, a saltire gules ; with an annulet if.e. a plain ring, denoting a 5th son for difference) ; for Eustace.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 286

As the companion tells it

Along here at New Abbey, the sides of the Eustace Altar-Tomb are built into the churchyard wall, safe but much hidden. Earlier accounts misread the figures. The panel described as an Irish peasant is actually a Franciscan nun, and the so-called two heralds are St. Catherine and St. Bridget. St. Catherine holds a sword and a spiked wheel, the emblems of her martyrdom. The other figure, crowned and standing, holds a book and a cross-topped staff whose butt pierces the mouth of a dragon at her feet. The remaining panels show the Queen of Heaven and Child, the emblems of the Passion and Crucifixion on a shield supported by angels, a Franciscan monk, and a quartered coat of arms bearing the Eustace saltire with a plain ring marking a fifth son.

Tumulus at Clane believed to mark Mesgegra's grave and the wartstone

Clane · town · Kildare

A tumulus beside the river at Clane is traditionally supposed to mark the grave of King Mesgegra, and possibly his queen. The stone on which his severed head was placed is believed to be the well-known wartstone of Clane, later moved nearer the village.

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subject, but tells us that the ‘‘tumulus beside the river at Claiie is supposed to mark tlie grave of Mesgegra and his Uiieeii.” Sir S. Ferguson evidently was of this 0[)inioii, as will be apparent to any reader of his poem, and in this he is followed by Mr. Lyster* in his notes to the poem “ ^fesgegra,” publislied in a “ Select Book of Poetry for Young Students.” O’Curry contents himself witli remarking that the mound must be between Clane and Tara, and may still be known in the neighbourhood.
That the king is buried beneath the tumulus at Clane I have no doubt. The combat was fought close to the river, which we are told ran red with the blood of the combatants. It was fought on the northern side of the river, where the mound now stands. Tlie stone on which his severed head was laid by Conall is, in Father Shearman’s opinion, tlie wellknown wartstone of Clane, which has since been moved nearer to the village.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 224

Wolfe Tone buried at Bodenstown churchyard

Bodenstown · townland · Kildare

The author notes he might have related the strange incidents of the life of Theobald Wolfe Tone, who, with other members of his family, lies buried in Bodenstown churchyard.

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There is much beside which I should have liked to add if time permitted. I might have directed your attention to the remains of the ancient Anglo-Norman abbey, founded in the 13th century— to the remarkable fragment of the rampart of the Pale between Clongowes and Clane. I might have related the siege of Blackhall, the strange incidents of the life of Theobald Wolfe Tone, who, with other members of his family, lies buried in Bodenstown churchyard, and the story of the
32

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 28

Woodstock Castle chimney-piece cornice with Fitzgerald arms removed to Carton

Woodstock Castle · castle · Kildare

A sculptured cornice of a chimney-piece in the ruins of Woodstock Castle depicted the Fitzgerald arms supported by lions and two angels playing an instrument resembling bagpipes; this remarkable stone was later removed to Carton, Maynooth for preservation.

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In one compartment of the cornice is sculptured the Fitzgerald arms, supported by two lions couchant, which seem to have been the support of the family arms before tlie introduction of the moiikies by the Kildare branch of that family, which, according to Lodge in his “ Peerage” (Vol. i., pp. 62-77, ed. Arch,), was not before the year 1300. This chimney-piece, therefore, must have been put up })rior to that period. In the other compartment are two angels playing on a musical instrument, which seems to resemble the pipes of Pan blown by a bag. As no such instrument was ever in use in this country, they would probably represent the ancient bagpipes blown by the mouth, in which the bundle of pipes are the drones and the large ones the chanters. Both the angels have on the Irish barred or cap. This remarkable and interesting cornice was some time since removed to Carton, Maynooth, for its better preservation.
One of the traditions in connection with the origin of the monkey as the crest of the Offaly Gieraldines is the following: — John Fitz Thomas, afterwards First Earl of Kildare (who died 1316), whilst an infant was in the Castle of Woodstock, near Athy, when there was an alarm of fire. In the confusion tliat ensued the child was forgotten ; and when the servants returned to search for him the room in whicli he lay was found in ruins. Soon after this a noise was heard on one

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 77

As the companion tells it

Right here at Woodstock Castle, near Athy, a chimney-piece cornice once bore the Fitzgerald arms, supported by two lions couchant. Those lions were the family's supporters before the Kildare branch adopted the monkey, which according to Lodge's Peerage was not before 1300, so the chimney-piece must date from before that. The other compartment showed two angels playing what seems to resemble the pipes of Pan blown by a bag. As no such instrument was ever used in this country, they probably represent ancient mouth-blown bagpipes, the bundle of pipes being the drones and the large ones the chanters. Both angels wear the Irish barred cap. This remarkable cornice was removed to Carton at Maynooth for its better preservation. There is a tradition here too. John Fitz Thomas, afterwards First Earl of Kildare, who died in 1316, was an infant in this castle when an alarm of fire rang out. In the confusion the child was forgotten, and when servants returned to search for him the room where he lay was found in ruins. Soon after, a noise was heard on one side of the building.

17th-century Archbold mural tablet built into a house wall at Timolin

Timolin · townland · Kildare · 1629–1641

A limestone mural tablet bearing the Archbold coat-of-arms and a Latin psalm inscription is built into the wall of a house in Timolin. It commemorates William Archbold and his wife Johanna Dongan; William's father Walter Archbold was outlawed and had his property confiscated for taking part in the 1641 rising.

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On one side of the shield is a W, and on the other an A. These initials stand for William Archbold, whose wife was Johanna Dongan. William’s father was Walter Archbold, of Timolin, who died on the 26th of September, 1629 ; he was then 45 years of age, and married, and taking part in the rising of 1641, he was outlawed, and his property confiscated.
Below the shield is a portion of the first verse of the XLI^* Psalm, in contracted Latin, of four lines —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 145

Athy and Naas as assize towns until 1859

Athy · town · Kildare · 1500–1859

The 8th Earl of Kildare procured an Act of Parliament making Naas and Athy the fixed sites of County Kildare's Assizes, an arrangement that remained in force until the last assizes were held at Athy in 1859.

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The eighth Earl of Kildare, the more effectually to secure the borders and to induce the gentlemen of the county to pay attention to them, procured, in the reign of Henry Yll., an Act of Parliament appointing the Assizes of the County of Kildare to be held at Naas and Athy, and that they should not be altered or removed from these towns unless by a subsecpient Act of Parliament. This arrangement remained in force until the 3’ear 1859, when the last assizes were held at Athy.
In 1615, Sir Pobert Digb}", who had married Ijettice, daughter of Grerald, Lord Otfalj^, obtained from King James I. a charter of incorporation for Athy. In this deed the corporation is styled “ The sovereign, bailiffs, free burgesses, and commonalty of the Borough of Athy.” The officers of the Corporation were a sovereign, wlio was also a justice of the peace, two bailiffs, twelve burgesses, a recorder, and several minor officers. The sovereign and bailiffs Avere elected annually, on lune 24th, feast of St. John the Baptist, out of the body of the jurgesses, and were SAvorn into office on the 29th September, the feast of St. Michael. The burgesses Avere elected for life out of the bod}" of the freemen. Tins borough returned two members to the Irish Parliament until the Union, Avhen, of the £15,000 awarded as compensation for the abolition of the elective franchise, £13,800 aaas paid to the Duke of Leinster as proprietor of the borough, and £1200 to Lord Ennismore.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 51

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Athy, you are in one of the two towns where County Kildare held its Assizes. The 8th Earl of Kildare procured an Act of Parliament in the reign of Henry VII fixing the assizes at Naas and Athy, and they could not be moved without another Act, an arrangement that held until 1859, when the last assizes were held here. In 1615, Sir Robert Digby, who had married Lettice, daughter of Gerald, Lord Offaly, obtained from King James I a charter of incorporation for the town, styling its corporation "the sovereign, bailiffs, free burgesses, and commonalty of the Borough of Athy." Its officers were a sovereign who also served as justice of the peace, two bailiffs, twelve burgesses, a recorder, and several minor officers, with the sovereign and bailiffs elected annually on June 24th, the feast of St. John the Baptist, and sworn in on September 29th, the feast of St. Michael. The borough returned two members to the Irish Parliament until the Union, when £15,000 was awarded as compensation for the abolition of the elective franchise, £13,800 of it to the Duke of Leinster as proprietor of the borough and £1,200 to Lord Ennismore.

Confusion over Patron Saints of Kilteel and Kill

Kilteel · parish · Kildare · 1837

O'Connor's 1837 Ordnance Survey manuscripts note that the patron day of Kilteel parish is St. John, while the church at Kill nearby is also linked to St. John, though Kill's true patron was St. Brigid. The confusion may stem from mixing up the names Kilheale and Killhill.

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Kilteel Castle is mentioned in the Ordnance Survey of Ireland ManuscrijDts by T. A. O’Connor, 1837. He notes a curious fact that the patron day of the parish of Kilteel (or Kilheale as it is generally written in the mediseval records) is St. John, whereas the church at Kill, in the adjoining parish, is dedicated to St. John. Perhaps some confusion may have arisen been Kilheale and Killhill, a hill at the back of the village of Kill, the real patron saint of Kill being St. Brigid — but more on this another time.
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

Death of the second Earl and dower to Countess Johanna

Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1328

In 1328 Thomas, the second Earl, died at Maynooth, leaving the Castle and part of the manor as a dowry to his Countess Johanna de Burgh, daughter of the Red Earl of Ulster.

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In 1328, Thomas, the second Earl, “ a wise and prudent man,” died at Maynooth. He left the Castle and part of the manor of Maynootli as a dowry to his Countess, Johanna de Burgli, who was daughter to the Red Earl of Ulster, and sister to Ellen, the wife of Robert Bruce, King of Scotland.
The Castle, as it then stood, is described as being built of stone, with numerous offices partly of stone, and two gates, one leading to the town, and tlie other to the garden. The garden extended from the Castle to the fosse and to the river.* In 1329, the Countess married Sir Jolin Darcy, Lord Justice of Ireland, and had a son William, born at Maynooth, in 1330. She died in 1359.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 156

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Maynooth, the town carries a story from 1328. That year Thomas, the second Earl, described as "a wise and prudent man," died here. He left the Castle and part of the manor of Maynooth as a dowry to his Countess, Johanna de Burgh. She was daughter to the Red Earl of Ulster and sister to Ellen, wife of Robert Bruce, King of Scotland. The castle as it then stood was built of stone, with numerous offices partly of stone and two gates, one leading to the town and the other to the garden, which extended from the castle to the fosse and the river. In 1329 the Countess married Sir John Darcy, Lord Justice of Ireland, and had a son William, born at Maynooth in 1330. She died in 1359.

Founding of Athy's monasteries and market town status

Athy · town · Kildare · 1250–1448

The town of Athy originated from two monasteries founded by English settlers in the mid-thirteenth century, and was granted market town privileges including fairs, markets and customs authority.

Read the passage

The town of Atliy appears to have originated in the foundation of the two monasteries here in the middle of the thirteenth century. As these religious houses were founded by the English settlers, not onl}^ tlie monks, but the inliabitants of the town were principally of tliat nation. To these were granted the immunities of a merchant or market town — such as fairs and markets, with authority to levy customs and tolls — and as such it is mentioned prior to the fifteenth century. By an Act of Parliament, 25th of Henry YI., a.d. 1448, these customs were to be cliarged only on goods sold and exposed for sale in the town, and not on such as were carried on the road tli rough tlie town, or bought or sold out of it.* Being exposed to the assaults of the neighbouring septs, especially the O’Mores and the 0 ’Kellys, whose territories adjoined, the town was in consequence fortified from an early date. In 1308 the town was burned by tlie Irish. In 1309, on Candlemas Hay, the Lord John Bonnevill was slain near the town of Ardscull by the Lord Anthony Power and his followers. His body was buried in Atliy in the Church of the Friars Preacliers. In tlie following year, at a Parliament holden at Kildare, the Lord Anthony Power was acquitted of that slaughter, for that it was proved it was done in self-defence. — (HoUmshed.)
In 1315 Athy was plundered by the Scots under Edward Bruce, who gained the battle of Ardscull, in which were slain Haymond le Grace and Sir William Prendergast, and on the side of the Scots, Sir Fergus Andressan and Sir Walter Murray, all of whom were buried in the Dominican Abbey of Athy. — [Camden.)

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 50

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Athy, you're travelling through a town that began with two monasteries founded here in the middle of the 1200s. English settlers built those religious houses, and the townspeople were mainly English too. They were granted the rights of a market town — fairs, markets, and authority to levy customs and tolls — and the town is recorded as such before the 1400s. An Act of Parliament in 1448 limited those customs to goods sold or exposed for sale within the town, not on goods carried through on the road. The town was fortified from an early date because it faced assaults from neighbouring septs, the O'Mores and the O'Kellys. In 1308 the town was burned by the Irish. In 1309, on Candlemas Day, Lord John Bonnevill was slain near Ardscull by Lord Anthony Power and his followers, and his body was buried in Athy in the Church of the Friars Preachers. The following year, at a Parliament held at Kildare, Power was acquitted, as it was proved the killing was done in self-defence. In 1315 Athy was plundered by the Scots under Edward Bruce, who won the battle of Ardscull. Haymond le Grace and Sir William Prendergast were killed on the losing side, and Sir Fergus Andressan and Sir Walter Murray on the Scottish side, all of whom were buried in the Dominican Abbey of Athy.

Kildare plundered repeatedly by the Danes in ninth and tenth centuries

Kildare · town · Kildare · 800–999

During the ninth century Kildare was plundered five times by the Danes, and twice that number of times in the following century, so that the protection of its round tower must have been frequently sought.

Read the passage

During the ninth century Kildare was five times plundered b}" the Danes, and twice that number of times in the following centuiy, so that the protection of the round tower must have been frequently sought. The date of its erection is unrecorded, and it is im})Ossible to make even a guess at it, judging from its masonry, as strange to say it is of two styles— the lower portion is of well-cut and well-fitted granite blocks, while above it is much older looking work, consisting of rubble masonry of
[ 7’o fare pnr/r (SG

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 65

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare, you are travelling through a town that was plundered five times by the Danes during the ninth century, and twice that number of times in the century that followed. The round tower here must have been frequently sought for protection in those years. No one knows when it was built. Its masonry is strange, two different styles in one tower. The lower portion is well-cut and well-fitted granite blocks, while above it is much older-looking rubble work.

Knight effigy at Timolin linked to Robert Fitz Richard

Timolin · townland · Kildare · 1170–1199

A stone effigy of a knight in armour at Timolin is supposed to represent Robert Fitz Richard, Baron of Norragh and ancestor of the de Valle or Calfe family, later anglicized to Wall, who received lands there from Strongbow.

Read the passage

At Timolin (one) lies a kniglit in armour, supposed to belong to Robert Pitz Richard, Baron of I^orragh, and ancestor of the Be Yalle, or Calfe, family, a name now anglicized to Wall. He was granted lands in the neighbourhood by Strongbow, and the “cut” of the armour belongs to that period, i. e. the latter end of the twelfth century.
At x^ew Abbey, near Kilcullen Bridge (one — a double-one), lie, side by side, Sir Rowland Pitz Eustace, and his wife Margaret Jenico.'^ Sir Rowland was Baron of Portlester, and died in 1496.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 109

Naas garrison in great straits for provisions, 1642

Naas · town · Kildare · 1642

On 25th February 1642 the Naas garrison, along with others, suffered severe shortages of provisions after the town had been plundered and the surrounding neighbourhood burnt.

Read the passage

On 25th February, 1642, the Naas garrison, amongst others, were in great straits for provisions, the town having been p[undered and the neighbourhood burnt.
In March, 1642, the Earl of Castlehaven, of Maddinstown, (one mile south-west of French Furze), in County Kildare, having been, like many otliers, driven into rebellion by the treatment of the Lords Justices, became Greneral of the Leinster Horse, Preston being Commander-in-Chief.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 138

As the companion tells it

You are passing through Naas, in Kildare. In February 1642 the garrison here was in great straits for provisions. The town had been plundered and the surrounding neighbourhood burnt, leaving the soldiers with little to live on.

Oughterard church ruins used as burial vault by the Ponsonby family

Oughterard · townland · Kildare · 1609

The church ruins on the summit of Oughterard hill, said to have been built in 1609 on the site of an ancient chantry connected with a nunnery founded by a St. Bridget, are largely used as a burial vault by the Ponsonby family, formerly of Bishopscourt.

Read the passage

On the summit of the liill is a churchyard, surrounded bj^ a liigli stone wall, containing some ancient ruins, a large portion of wliicli is used as a burial vault by tlie Ponsonby familjy. f'ormerl}" of Bisliopscourt. These cliurch ruins are said to have been built in IGOh, on the site of an ancient chantry connected with a nunnery founded by a St. Bridget in the 6th or Ttli centuiy. This St. Bridget was not the same as the famous St. Bridget of Kildare.
The Old}" mention of Oughterard in the Annals of the Four j\[asters is in the 3'ear 1094. It is thus given : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 64

Restoration of Kildrought Manor to Thomas FitzGerald

Celbridge · town · Kildare · 1587

Queen Elizabeth wrote in 1587 directing restoration of the manor of Kildrought (Celbridge) to Thomas FitzGerald of Lackagh, who claimed to be the lawful heir after his grandfather had been wrongfully disseised by the Earl of Kildare.

Read the passage

On tlie 24th August, 1587, Queen Elizabeth wrote to the Lord Deputy of Ireland, directing the restoration of the manor of Kildroughtf to Thomas Fitz Grerald of Lackagh. He had petitioned for it on the grounds that lie was tlie lawful heir thereunto had not Gerald, the 9th Earl of Kildare, then Deputy of Ireland, wrongfully disseised his grandfather {i,e. Thomas FitzGerald who died in 1543j, after which, owing to the rebellion of the Silken Thomas, all the EaiTs possessions were forfeited to the Crown, until restored by Queen Mary in 1554, wFen Gerald, the 11th Earl, sold the manor to Garrett Sutton, whose son David took part in the Eustace rebellion, hence the manor again came again came into the j)OSsession of the Crown.
During the last decade of the sixteenth century, and for several years afterwards, there w^as a continuous cjuarrel and law suit between the Fitz Geralds of Lackagh and the Fitz Geralds of Killeigh and Beloagh (in the King’s County and the Co. AVestmeath respectively^) as to the legitimacy^ of the latter house. It appears to have been commenced by^ Thomas in consequence of Gerald, the 11th Earl of Kildare, giving the precedency in the entailment of his estates to the Fitz Geralds of Killeigh and Beloagh, wdio were descended from the Earl’s uncle. Sir Oliver FitzGerald, of Ballyunore Loughseudy, in the Co. Westmeath, and whose marriage Thomas tried to prove to be illegitimate. The Earl’s entailment was in the following order : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 181

Scots under Bruce plunder the Franciscan convent

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1316

In the second week of Lent 1316, the Scots under Bruce plundered the Franciscan convent at Castledermot.

Read the passage

1316 A.n. — In the second week of Lent the Scots under Bruce plundered this convent. — “ Pembridge.”
1328 A.D. — In Easter week Thomas, 2nd Earl of Kildare, died. He was Lord Justice of Ireland, and a liberal benefactor to the Gray Friars. He built the Chapel of St. Mary in this convent, in whicli he was interred, together with liis wife Joan, daughter of Kichard de Burgh, Earl of Ulster. — “ Wadding.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 264

Skeffington retakes Naas from rebellion

Naas · town · Kildare · 1554

In 1554, Lord Deputy Skeffington retook Naas after it had been seized by Lord Thomas FitzGerald, who was then in open rebellion against the crown.

Read the passage

1554. — Lord Deputy Skeffington retook Naas, which had been seized by Lord Thomas FitzGerald, then in open rebellion.
July 18, 1568. — A charter was granted to Naas by Queen Elizabeth.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 131

As the companion tells it

Coming up toward Naas now. In 1554, Lord Deputy Skeffington retook this town, which had been seized by Lord Thomas FitzGerald, then in open rebellion against the crown.

St. James's Chapel and Well diverted by parish priest

Castledermot · town · Kildare

Attached to the Friary was a chapel dedicated to St. James, patron of the district, with a well that flowed from under the altar site, which a later parish priest diverted to the other side of the gable.

Read the passage

Attached to this Friary was another chapel, dedicated to St. James, the patron of the district, of whicli one gable and portion of a sidewall remain. From under the site of the altar flowed St. James’s AVell, which a late [)arisli priest diverted to the other side of the gable. This chapel was fitted up and used as a place of worship by the Catholics until— as the writer of the Ordnance Survey Letter relates, who no doubt had it from some old inhabitant — “ it was maliciously burnt in 1799 by John Lennon, of liallitore ; Bill Lennon, of Ballacore ; Thomas Connally, of Oastledermot, the charter schoolmaster’s son ; and Billy Xing, the Devonsliire militiaman. The plot was hatched in Peter Graham’s, the shoemaker’s house, in Oastledermot, and the fire was carried in a kettle out of Wat Coleman’s house in Oastledermot.”
The Protestant church and the burial-ground surrounding it occupy the site of the original hermitage of St. Liarmaid, and the monastery which sprung up around it. An ancient round tower here has been already described in the Journal of our Society, p. 77 ; it is 66J feet high ; its doorway, which, contrary to the usual custom, is only slightly above the ground level, is square-headed, the jambs inclining towards each other at top ; portion of these have been hacked away, probably tor tlie admission of the bell placed in it in the last century. The swathing of ivy in which it had been enveloped for at least a century and a-half has been lately removed, with advantage

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 265

The Council House at Maynooth Castle and safekeeping of title deeds

Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1629

Around 1629 the title deeds of the young Earl of Kildare were kept in a triple-locked chest in a strongly built stone part of Maynooth Castle called the Council House, near the garden.

Read the passage

In or about 1629, a letter was sent to the Lords Justices of Ireland, by order of Charles I., in which it is stated that, as the title deeds of George, sixteenth Earl, then a minor, were in the custody of Christopher FitzGerald, formerly servant to Gerald, late Earl, and who liad grown very weak from old age, he directed them to be placed under tlie charge of Lord Aungier, uncle to the Earl, and of Sir William Talbot of Carton, in a cliest with three Locks, one key to be kept by the guardians of tlie Earl, anotlier by Lord Aungier, and tlie third by Sir W. Talbot. On the 31st August, 1629, Lord Aungier wrote to the l^iarl that he ought to be very careful of his title deeds, now in the possession of the old steward, a faithful servant of his liouse, kept in a part of Maynooth Castle, called the Council House, strongly built of stone, a little remote from the house towards the garden, li
The remains of the Council House were removed about the year 1780, and on tlie site was erected a dwelling, which is now the centre of the College of St. Patrick, facing the town. The old doorway is now the entrance of the Protestant school-house,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 163

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Maynooth, this town holds a story from 1629. The title deeds of George, the sixteenth Earl of Kildare, then a minor, were kept in a part of Maynooth Castle called the Council House, strongly built of stone, a little remote from the main house towards the garden. The deeds had been in the custody of Christopher FitzGerald, an old servant of the late Earl Gerald, who had grown very weak from age. Charles I directed that they be placed under the charge of Lord Aungier, uncle to the Earl, and Sir William Talbot of Carton, in a chest with three locks, one key kept by the Earl's guardians, one by Lord Aungier, and the third by Sir William Talbot. On the 31st of August 1629, Lord Aungier wrote to the Earl that he ought to be very careful of his title deeds, still held by the old steward, a faithful servant of his house. The Council House itself was removed around 1780, and on its site was built a dwelling that is now the centre of the College of St. Patrick, facing the town. The old doorway is now the entrance of the Protestant school-house.

The Dominican Friary and its subterraneous passage legend

Naas · town · Kildare

The Augustinian Friary or Monastery of the Moat stood adjoining the Abbey graveyard; a superstition held that a subterraneous passage led from the Friary to St. David's Church. The ruins were demolished in 1835.

Read the passage

There was a superstition that a subterraneous passage led from tlie Friary to St. David’s Church.
4’he later Ordnance maps show Site of Friary ” near corner of Basin-street and Back- lane, and my estate maps of 1722 (114 years before the first Ordnance Survey) mark the same spot “ St. Dominie’s Abby.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 232

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Naas, a friary once stood here, marked on estate maps of 1722 as St. Dominic's Abbey, near the corner of Basin Street and Back Lane. People believed a subterraneous passage ran from the friary to St. David's Church. The ruins were demolished in 1835.

The last portreeve of Swords dies in America

Swords · town · Dublin

In the case of Swords, the last portreeve died in America within the past generation; a holding of three acres, part of the perquisites of his office at Broadmeadows, became derelict and passed to the widow of his former bailiff.

Read the passage

can liardly avoid tlie conclusion that tliey all have a similar origin. In every case tliey are described as consisting of extremely small holdings scattered about in all directions ; occasionally in mere strips of land ; the}" are near towns or villages wliich possessed also commons, but very few of the holdings are on the common land. In the case of Sw"ords, the last portreeve died in America within the past generation ; and a holding of three acres, which was part of the percpiisites of his office, has become derelict, and is in possession of the widow of his former bailiff. The Act 27 Greorge III. speaks of the Economy Lands as let by Protestant parishioners in vestry assembled. I may add that the three acres of the portreeve of Swords are situated in a piece of land called Broadmeadows, which is common in certain months of the year : thus still preserving a curious relic of the ancient custom by which the arable and meadow land of the community, after the hay and corn harvest, were thrown open to be grazed by the cattle of all the burgesses.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 28

The old Tholsell of Naas and its assembly rooms

Naas · town · Kildare · 1664–1786

The Tholsell, frequently mentioned in manuscripts, extended from the Presbyterian Meeting House to near the weigh-house, with assembly rooms above and cellars below let to tenants. A dial was installed in 1682 and a bell worth £5 hung there in 1676.

Read the passage

No building of ancient Naas, is so frequently mentioned in my manuscripts as the old Tholsell. Its site extended in 1786 from tlie front wall of the present Presbyterian Meeting House to within a few feet of the weigh-house. A narrow lane separated the Tholsell from the houses now occupied by the Observer office (once Atkinson’s public-house), Mr. Pyan’s, and Mr. Carney’s. A flight of steps on its south side led up to the assembly rooms. Under these steps was a cellar 7 feet by 9 feet. Under the assembly rooms were also “ sellar s,” let to William Fforster in 1664. A ‘‘ dyal ” was put over the stairs in 1682, and a bell ‘‘ worth £5 was hung in the Tossell in 1676.” The garretts over the assembly rooms were let in 1678 to Pichard Eustace. North of the Tholsell was a “ waste spott,” which, in 1664, had been let to William Fforster, but on his representing that liis rent was “ to soare ” it was reduced to 10s. In 1668 T. Ashe demised to P. Eustace, who lived where Messrs. Peilley and Cunningham’s premises now are the waste plot of ground (probablj^ at back of Mr. Cunningham’s house) between Tholsell and T. Ashe’s house, with other concerns, “ for £o and a three pound sugar loaf at Xmas.” In 1668 P. Eustace “ got leave to lay two beams from his house to the Tholsell walls and to build thereon,” whereupon he built over the intervening space (the site of the Presbyterian Meeting House) “ a house slated from end to end.” In 1681 it is mentioned that the county were to have ground for a new Sessions House, 48 feet by 40 feet, with a staircase at end, and from that out the name Sessions House is generally substituted for Tholsell, although it remained on same site. Perhaps it was added to, or used bj" both county and borough for their assemblies, but certainly the borough had to keep it in repair. In 1690 a guardhouse was made under the Sessions House, probably for pohce cells. In 1714 the Sessions House was allowed to housed as a school, and

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 233

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Naas in Kildare, you are near the site of the old Tholsell, the building most frequently mentioned in the town's ancient manuscripts. By 1786 its site stretched from the Presbyterian Meeting House to near the weigh-house, with a flight of steps on the south side leading up to the assembly rooms. Below were cellars, let to William Fforster in 1664, and a narrow cellar under the steps measuring 7 feet by 9 feet. A bell worth £5 was hung there in 1676, and a dial was placed over the stairs in 1682. The garrets above the assembly rooms were let to Richard Eustace in 1678. North of the Tholsell was a waste plot let to Fforster in 1664. When he complained his rent was "too soare," it was cut to 10 shillings. In 1668, P. Eustace got leave to lay two beams from his house to the Tholsell walls and built a slated house over the gap between them. In 1681 the county was granted ground for a new Sessions House, 48 feet by 40 feet, and from then on the name Sessions House generally replaced Tholsell, though it stayed on the same site. A guardhouse was made underneath in 1690, likely for police cells. By 1714 the Sessions House was being used as a school.

Parish priest praises Duke and Duchess of Leinster's charity to Maynooth's poor

Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1893

The Roman Catholic parish priest of Maynooth stated that the poor had lost a sincere friend and the working people a good employer, noting the Duke and Duchess lived among their tenants at Carton, knew their wants, and quietly relieved the sick and suffering.

Read the passage

He was a man of deeds, not words : one whose every action was guided by a lofty sense of duty, and yet possessed of a deep and loving lieart, whose dictates he permitted to lead, but never to mislead him. His charity was generous and largeminded, embracing all who needed it, witliont respect of creed. To quote the words of the E-oman Catholic parish priest of Maynooth on his early death : “ The poor have lost a sincere friend, and the working people of Maynooth a good employer. The Duke and Duchess were seldom absent from Carton. They lived in the midst of their people. They were anxious about their welfare. They knew their wants, and relieved them. They silently sought out the sick and suffering, and gave them help.”
Tlie characteristics we have here indicated were an inheritance from a long line of noble and patriotic ancestors. Their story, for seven centuries, has been traced by the Duke’s father from the vineyards of the Yal d’Elsa to Desmond and Adare, from Dominus Otho — who flourished at the Court of Edward tlie Confessor, and was probably son of the old Tuscan Baron Glierardo — down to Lord Edward, whom the Irish peasant long believed would come again like Arthur, and marshal the Celtic ranks on the Curragh. A writer in the Saturday lievieiv^ vol. v., p. 135, speaking of this history of the Geraldines, says : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 115

As the companion tells it

You are passing through Maynooth in Kildare. Back in 1893, when the Duke of Leinster died young, the Roman Catholic parish priest here said the poor had lost a sincere friend and the working people of Maynooth a good employer. The Duke and Duchess lived at Carton, right among their tenants. They were seldom absent, knew their people's wants, and quietly sought out the sick and suffering to give them help. Their charity, the priest said, embraced all who needed it without respect of creed. The family's story runs back seven centuries, traced by the Duke's father from a Tuscan vineyard to Desmond and Adare, from Dominus Otho at the court of Edward the Confessor down to Lord Edward, whom the Irish peasant long believed would come again like Arthur and marshal the Celtic ranks on the Curragh.

Charter of incorporation for Athy, 1615

Athy · town · Kildare · 1615–1800

In 1615 Sir Robert Digby obtained from King James I a charter of incorporation for Athy, establishing the Borough with a sovereign, bailiffs, burgesses and other officers, who returned two members to the Irish Parliament until the Union.

Read the passage

In 1615, Sir Pobert Digb}", who had married Ijettice, daughter of Grerald, Lord Otfalj^, obtained from King James I. a charter of incorporation for Athy. In this deed the corporation is styled “ The sovereign, bailiffs, free burgesses, and commonalty of the Borough of Athy.” The officers of the Corporation were a sovereign, wlio was also a justice of the peace, two bailiffs, twelve burgesses, a recorder, and several minor officers. The sovereign and bailiffs Avere elected annually, on lune 24th, feast of St. John the Baptist, out of the body of the jurgesses, and were SAvorn into office on the 29th September, the feast of St. Michael. The burgesses Avere elected for life out of the bod}" of the freemen. Tins borough returned two members to the Irish Parliament until the Union, Avhen, of the £15,000 awarded as compensation for the abolition of the elective franchise, £13,800 aaas paid to the Duke of Leinster as proprietor of the borough, and £1200 to Lord Ennismore.
The ancient seal of the corporation displays a tower on a bridge, Avith a coroneted shield on each side, and the legend — Sigilhim Burcji de Athy in Com. Kildar. The Seal of the

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 51

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Athy, a town in Kildare that was formally incorporated in 1615. Sir Robert Digby, who had married Lettice, daughter of Gerald Lord Offaly, obtained the charter from King James I. The corporation was styled

Betaghstown: relic of Celtic house of hospitality at Clane

Betaghstown · townland · Kildare

The lands forming the endowment of Hewetson's school at Clane go by the name of Betaghstown, an interesting memorial of the Celtic age when Irish chiefs founded Biatachs, or houses of hospitality, endowed with land, cattle and sheep for travellers, strangers, sick and poor.

Read the passage

were called Betaclis, and were sometimes laymen, sometimes ecclesiastics. They were amply endowed with gifts of land, cattle, and sheep, for the public entertainment of travellers, strangers, sick, and poor. The official in charge of those liouses required labourers to cultivate the grounds and tend the cattle, and these were, no doubt, slaves attached to the lands. Even in much later ages they seem to liave passed with the lands whenever these changed hands, and they were called Betages. In this name Betaglistown, still attached to particular lands at Clane, we have an indication of one of these ancient charitable endowments given by some Celtic chief, and it is possible that the townlands of Ballinagappah and Ballinabooly, Avliich immediately adjoin, may have been also chief’s lands, tlie one a[)propriated to tillage, the other to the grazing of liis dairy cattle.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

Burning of Newcastle and Lyons castles, pillage of Naas

Lyons · townland · Kildare · 1641–1642

On 1 February 1641-42 the Lords Justices sent the Earl of Ormonde into County Kildare, where he burnt the castles of Newcastle and Lyons and pillaged the town of Naas as part of the 1641 rebellion conflict.

Read the passage

Down to the troubles of 1641-42 the Aylmers were found supporting English authority. They had then to take [)art in a struggle between Homan Catholic and Protestant, Hoyalism and Hepublicanism, and later between Jacobites and Williamites, and experienced the vicissitudes of those times. On February 1, 1641-42, the Lords Justices sent out the Earl of Ormonde into the County of Kildare where, pursuant to orders, he burnt the castles of Newcastle and Lyons and pillaged Naas.* The greater part of Donadea, the other chief seat of the Kildare Aylmers,‘was burnt to the ground when it was besieged in 1641, and bravely defended by Lady Ellen Aylmer,t a sister of the Earl of Ormonde. Balrath, the castle of the Meath Aylmers, was pillaged by Sir H. Titchbourne, and underwent a second siege when it was retaken by the Irisli under General Owen O’Neill in 1643. Captain Gerald Aylmer, its owner, father of the first baronet of Balrath, was attainted. James Aylmer of Dollardstown was outlawed, and so was Matthew Aylmer of Ballykeuane for being “ concerned in the rebellion of 1641.” Thus every branch of the family suffered, and the Lyons, Donadea, and Balrath branches had their castles destroyed ; Dollardstown was confiscated, and never returned into Aylmer hands.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 211

Death and burial of Thomas, 2nd Earl of Kildare

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1328

Thomas, 2nd Earl of Kildare and Lord Justice of Ireland, died in Easter week 1328. He built the Chapel of St. Mary at the Franciscan convent and was interred there along with his wife Joan, daughter of Richard de Burgh, Earl of Ulster.

Read the passage

1328 A.D. — In Easter week Thomas, 2nd Earl of Kildare, died. He was Lord Justice of Ireland, and a liberal benefactor to the Gray Friars. He built the Chapel of St. Mary in this convent, in whicli he was interred, together with liis wife Joan, daughter of Kichard de Burgh, Earl of Ulster. — “ Wadding.”
1398 A.D. — On the 18th February, in the church of this monastery, Thomas, Earl of Nottingham and Marshal of England, being present, Lysah Ferison O’Conor, of the nation of Hyrth, and O’Toole did homage, and, on bended knees, with lifted hands, took an oath, in Irish, of allegiance to the King. — “Notarial Instrument, Oarew mss.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 264

Eodais martyred by foreigners at Disert Diarmada, 867

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 867

In 867 AD, Eodais, son of Dougal, suffered martyrdom at Disert Diarmada at the hands of foreign raiders, as recorded by the Four Masters.

Read the passage

8G7 A.D. — Eodais, sou of Dougal, suffered martyrdom here from the foreigners. — “ Four Masters.”
871 A.D. — 8t. Mojdervayu, abbot, and also of Killegie and Tdielly, died. — “ Mac Geogliegan.” The “ Four Masters ” record this event under tlie year 884.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 258

Excavation of Kildare Round Tower yields ancient coins

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1800–1850

Petrie records that a clergyman named Browne of Kildare excavated the base of the round tower during the first half of the century searching for sepulchral interments. Though unsuccessful in that aim, five or six rare ancient silver coins known as bracteati were dug up.

Read the passage

The base is solid and measures, about a couple of feet from the ground, 53i feet in circumference. Petrie in his book says that a clergyman named Browne, of Kildare, during tlie first lialf of this century, excavated it in search of sepidchral interments, but was unsuccessful, though five or six very rare and ancient little silver coins were dug up during the operation. These coins are known among collectors as bracteati; they bear no inscription, are very thin, and are struck only on the one side.
The internal diameter, at tlie level of the door, is 8 4 feet, and would be a little more if it was not for the plastering on the walls, whieli at this level are 4 feet in thickness.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 67

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare, the round tower here drew a clergyman named Browne in the first half of the 1800s. He excavated the base looking for burials, but found none. Instead, five or six rare ancient silver coins called bracteati turned up. They bear no inscription, are very thin, and were struck on one side only. The base measures about 53 feet in circumference near the ground, with walls 4 feet thick.

Founding of the Dominican Friary at Athy, 1253

Athy · town · Kildare · 1253

A monastery of the Friars Preachers was founded at Athy in 1253 by the families of the Boisles and Wogans, Welsh-descended settlers connected to County Kildare.

Read the passage

A monastery of the Friars Preachers was founded at Athy in the year 1253, by the families of the Boisles and W ogans, regarding whom, as connected with the County of Kildare, a brief account will be interesting to our members. The AVogans were of AVelsh extraction, and settled in Ireland towards the close of the thirteenth century. John AVogan, Knt., was Justiciary of Ireland from 1295 to 1308, and again, from 1310 to 1312. Pichard AVogan was appointed Lord High Chancellor of Ireland by King Henry YI., in 1444. Colonel AVogan, a member of this family, saved the King’s life in the battle of Nazeby. Young Charles AVogan, afterwards Sir Charles, a near kinsman of the Colonel AVogan just mentioned, and nephew to Picliard Talbot, Duke of Tyrconnell, was a Poman patrician and senator, and colonel in the Span is) 1 army. It is related of him that “ with 1400 men he held out for four hours against 20,000, losing half his soldiers, and thus secured a victory and conquest for the Prince he served.” His greatest exploit.
66

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 53

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Athy, you are in a town where a monastery of the Friars Preachers was founded in 1253 by two families, the Boisles and the Wogans. The Wogans were of Welsh extraction and settled in Ireland towards the close of the thirteenth century. They went on to leave a deep mark on the country. John Wogan, a knight, served as Justiciar of Ireland from 1295 to 1308, and again from 1310 to 1312. Richard Wogan was appointed Lord High Chancellor of Ireland by King Henry VI in 1444. A Colonel Wogan of this family saved the King's life at the Battle of Naseby. And a young Charles Wogan, later Sir Charles, kinsman of that colonel and nephew to Richard Talbot, Duke of Tyrconnell, became a Roman patrician, senator, and colonel in the Spanish army. Of him it was written that 'with 1400 men he held out for four hours against 20,000, losing half his soldiers, and thus secured a victory and conquest for the Prince he served.'

Kilmacduagh tower leans due to burials beneath foundation

Kilmacduagh · townland · Galway

The round tower of Kilmacduagh in Co. Galway leans greatly for the same reason as Kilkenny's, its foundations having sunk over ancient burials.

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

King John's visit to Naas

Naas · town · Kildare · 1206

On June 24, 1206, King John passed through Naas and lodged in a tent, with payments recorded to the Earl of Salisbury and to Robin de Camera at that time.

Read the passage

June 24, 1206. — King John passed through Naas (see State papers). “ At Naas to the Earl of Salisbury 10 marks pd. to Robin de Camera, when the King (John) lay in a tent.”
June 26. — To Robert de Burgage, for play, 5s. on account of a debt due by him (the King).

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 129

As the companion tells it

On June 24, 1206, King John passed through Naas and slept in a tent. Ten marks were paid to the Earl of Salisbury and to Robin de Camera while the King lay in that tent. Two days later, 5 shillings went to Robert de Burgage for play, on account of a debt due by the King.

Later use of Athy Castle as prison and police barrack

Athy · town · Kildare · 1700–1890

The Athy Castle fortress, of which only one embattled tower remains, was used in the last century as a prison attached to the county jail of Naas, and later converted into a police barrack before falling out of use.

Read the passage

bridge of Atliy,” as it is plirased in the record. It may have been that the Earl of Kildare, on this occasion, so remodelled the existing fortress that it miglit be considered as a new building. This castle was afterwards, in 1575, repaired and enlarged. Of tliis fortress only one embattled tower remains. It was used in the last century as a prison, being an appendage to the county jail of Naas. It subsequently was converted into a police barrack, but lias lately ceased to be used for tliat or any other purpose. Two sculptured stones are inserted in the wall, one bears the Fitzgerald arms, with the motto of the Order of the Grarter ; the other has a Latin inscription : —
Ricardus Cossen, Prepositus villae DE Athie, posuit hunc lapidem,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 51

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Athy in Kildare, you pass near what is left of a castle that once stood here. Only one embattled tower remains of the fortress, which was repaired and enlarged in 1575. In the last century it served as a prison, an appendage to the county jail of Naas, and was later converted into a police barrack before falling out of use. Two sculptured stones are set into the wall. One bears the Fitzgerald arms with the motto of the Order of the Garter. The other carries a Latin inscription placed by Ricardus Cossen, Provost of the town of Athy.

Lord Leonard Grey's letter on stripping Killeigh abbey for Maynooth college

Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1537

In 1537 Deputy Lord Leonard Grey wrote from Maynooth Castle describing taking a pair of organs and other materials, including window glass, from the abbey of Killeigh for the King's college and castle at 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 come through Maynooth, you are passing a place with a college story that goes back to 1518, when Gerald, ninth Earl of Kildare, petitioned the Archbishop of Dublin for a licence to found and endow a college here. The licence came in 1521, and he built the College of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Maynooth, placing there a provost, a vice-provost, 5 priests, 2 clerks, and 3 choristers to pray for his soul and his wife's. By 1537 the college and castle belonged to the King, and the deputy Lord Leonard Grey wrote a letter from the King's Castle of Maynooth describing an inroad on the country of the O'Connors. In that letter he said, "Owte of the seid abbje of Kyllegh I broght a peyer of orgons and other necessarie thinges for the Kynges collage of Maynooth, and as muche glas as glasid part of the" — he had stripped the abbey of Killeigh for organs, window glass, and whatever else the college needed.

Maurice Eustace of Castlemartin becomes Speaker and Chancellor

Castlemartin · townland · Kildare · 1634–1665

Maurice Eustace, son of William of Castlemartin, rose to become Serjeant-at-law, Speaker of the House of Commons, Master of the Rolls, and eventually Chancellor, holding the office until his death in 1665. He was confirmed in his estates by the Act of Settlement and is buried in St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Read the passage

Maurice Eustace, son of William of Castlemartin, was appointed Serjeant-at-law in 1634, and elected Speaker of the House of Commons in 1638 — “ a wise, learned, and discreet man, and of great integrity.” Charles I. appointed him one of the Commissioners to confer with the Confederate Catholics ; and in 1647 the House of Commons voted him their thanks for his “ singular good affection to the English nation, his public service, and his earnest advancement of the Protestant
128

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Castlemartin, Maurice Eustace, son of William, was appointed Serjeant-at-law in 1634 and elected Speaker of the House of Commons in 1638. He was called "a wise, learned, and discreet man, and of great integrity." Charles I made him a Commissioner to confer with the Confederate Catholics. He went on to become Master of the Rolls and then Chancellor, holding that office until his death in 1665. He is buried in St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Memorial Tablet for a Stranger Who Died Near Millicent Bridge

Millicent Bridge · bridge · Kildare

A memorial tablet with a small incised cross was recently placed in the wall of a bridge crossing a large drain, about halfway between Millicent Bridge and the new church of St. Michael, commemorating a stranger who dropped dead on the spot.

Read the passage

In a map of the Co. Kildare, by Koble and Keenan, a.d. 1752, there are marked two roadside crosses, within a short distance of one another, at Little Hath, between Sallins and Straffan : of these the bases alone remain. The larger of the tAVo is now in the farmyard at Prospect, nearly o])posite to the spot on Avhich it formerly stood. Of the insciiption only the words “me fecet ” (sic) can be made out. The base of the second cross, Avhich is somewhat smaller, is built into the boundary Avail of Little Path, about two hundred feet further on. These crosses Avere probably erected on spots where some fatal accidents ha})pencd. A memorial tablet, with small incised cross, has recently been placed in the wall of a bridge crossing a large drain, about half-Avay betAveen Millicent Bridge and the neAv church of St. iMichacl, in memory of a stranger who dropped dead on the spot. — W. S.
The Breedoge. — Can anyone inform me if the old custom of carrying round “ The Breedoge ” on St. Bridget’s Eve or Day (the 1st of Eebruary) is still kept up? Eormerly, I am told, a figure was dressed up to represent the patron saint of Kildare, St. Bridget. This figure was called “The Breedoge” (Bride Oge), or “Young Bridget,” and carried round by the young people from house to house asking for coppers, in the same way as the wren on a holly bush is carried round on St. Stephen’s Day. The result of the day’s round was spent in a jollification. I believe this was a local custom peculiar to the neighbourhood of Kildare. — Walter Fitz Gerald.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

Naas Charter of James I confirms Elizabethan borough rights

Naas · town · Kildare · 1568–1609

James I's charter recites Elizabeth's 1568 charter incorporating Naas by name of Sovereign, Portreeves, Burgesses and Commons. The town received rights to a Sergeant-at-Mace, fortification, and a market every Monday.

Read the passage

But J ames I. granted a charter, which commences by reciting Queen Elizabeth’s charter of 18th July, 1568, incorporating Naas by the name of Sovereign, Portreeves, Burgesses and Commons.
The Burgesses and Commons every Michaelmas to elect out of themselves a Sovereign and two Portreeves to serve for an entire year, and they to be sworn the same day. The town of Naas to be a free and undoubted borough.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 133

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Naas. In 1568 Queen Elizabeth granted a charter making Naas a free borough, governed by a Sovereign, Portreeves, Burgesses and Commons. Each Michaelmas the Burgesses and Commons elected a Sovereign and two Portreeves to serve for a full year, sworn the same day. James I later confirmed these rights by charter.

Naas Described as Unpaved and Unlit in 1837

Naas · town · Kildare · 1837

In 1837 Naas was described as having about 600 houses, only a few handsomely built, not paved or lighted, though inhabitants were amply supplied with water from wells, and the town held assizes and quarter sessions.

Read the passage

In 1837 Naas is described as “ of about 600 houses, only a few handsomely built, remainder of indifferent appearance, not paved or lighted, but inhabitants amply supplied with water from wells. It has assizes and quarter sessions.”
Poimlation in 1827, 3073 persons.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 195

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Naas, back in 1837 it had about 600 houses, only a few handsomely built, the rest of indifferent appearance. The streets were not paved or lighted, though the inhabitants were amply supplied with water from wells. The town still held assizes and quarter sessions, and a decade earlier, in 1827, its population stood at 3073 persons.

Only two thatched houses left in Kilcullen, 1646

Kilcullen · town · Kildare · 1646

When Sir Frederick Willoughby's detachment crossed the Liffey near Kilcullen in September 1646, the bridge had been destroyed and there were only two thatched houses and no supplies, forcing quarters that night at Naas instead.

Read the passage

29th August, 1646. — Ormonde, on his way to Kilkenny, on the invitation of the Irish, passed by Naas with 1500 foot and 500 horse, borrowed eight barrels of powder of Sir John Sherlock, the governor of Naas.* This was fortunate for him, as, on his discovering that the invitation was a trap laid for him by the Irish, he, on his return through County Kildare, issued to his men the powder supplied by the rebels as part payment of a sum agreed upon as the price of a cessation in 1643 ; this powder was discovered to be quite useless, and he had to rely entirely on the eight barrels borrowed from Naas. Ormonde quartered his troops at Bally more-Eustace on 11th September, and Sir Frederick Willoughby’s detachment on the same day crossed the Liffey near Kilcullen, the bridge having been destroyed. There being only two thatched houses in Kilcullen, and no supplies, he quartered that night at Naas. The whole army returned on 13th to Dublin.
In November, 1 646, Ormonde being threatened in Dublin by Preston’s army, made an expedition into Kildare and burnt all mills, bridges, corn, and supplies, within some miles of the town to incommode the enemy.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 139

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kilcullen, the town holds a spare memory from September 1646. Sir Frederick Willoughby's detachment crossed the Liffey near here on the 11th of that month, only to find the bridge had been destroyed. There were just two thatched houses standing in Kilcullen and no supplies to be had, so the men could not quarter here and had to push on to Naas for the night. This was part of Ormonde's movements through County Kildare, when he had passed through Naas earlier with 1500 foot and 500 horse, borrowed eight barrels of powder from the governor there, and later discovered the invitation to Kilkenny had been a trap laid by the Irish. The whole army returned to Dublin on the 13th. By November, Ormonde, threatened in Dublin by Preston's army, marched back into Kildare and burnt all mills, bridges, corn, and supplies within some miles of the town to deny them to the enemy.

Ownership history of Kilteel Castle through the centuries

Kilteel · parish · Kildare · 1669–1838

After 1541 the ownership of Kilteel Castle passed through Lord Tyrconnell's lease to Daniel Reading in 1669, then to the Hollow Sword Blade Company in 1703, to Sir William Fownes in 1706, then via Lady Elizabeth Ponsonby to W. F. Fownes Tighe in 1773, and finally sold to Sir John Kennedy in 1838.

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The trustees of the forfeited estates assigned Kilteel from the Earl of Tyrconnell to the Hollow Sword Blade Company in 1703 ; and the Hollow Sword Blade Company to Sir William Fownes, 1706. Sir W. Fownes married in 1739 Lady Elizabeth Ponsonby, and Kilteel was settled mostly on her. Kilteel Castle and Icmds were left by Sir W. Fownes to W. F. Fownes Tighe, 1773. Sir John Kennedy bought the property from W. F. Fownes Tighe in 1838, from whom it came to Mr. J. A. Kennedy’s father, and so to him.
36

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 32

Pillage and retaking of Balrath castle

Balrath · townland · Meath · 1641–1643

Balrath, castle of the Meath Aylmers, was pillaged by Sir H. Titchbourne and later underwent a second siege when it was retaken by the Irish under General Owen O'Neill in 1643.

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Down to the troubles of 1641-42 the Aylmers were found supporting English authority. They had then to take [)art in a struggle between Homan Catholic and Protestant, Hoyalism and Hepublicanism, and later between Jacobites and Williamites, and experienced the vicissitudes of those times. On February 1, 1641-42, the Lords Justices sent out the Earl of Ormonde into the County of Kildare where, pursuant to orders, he burnt the castles of Newcastle and Lyons and pillaged Naas.* The greater part of Donadea, the other chief seat of the Kildare Aylmers,‘was burnt to the ground when it was besieged in 1641, and bravely defended by Lady Ellen Aylmer,t a sister of the Earl of Ormonde. Balrath, the castle of the Meath Aylmers, was pillaged by Sir H. Titchbourne, and underwent a second siege when it was retaken by the Irisli under General Owen O’Neill in 1643. Captain Gerald Aylmer, its owner, father of the first baronet of Balrath, was attainted. James Aylmer of Dollardstown was outlawed, and so was Matthew Aylmer of Ballykeuane for being “ concerned in the rebellion of 1641.” Thus every branch of the family suffered, and the Lyons, Donadea, and Balrath branches had their castles destroyed ; Dollardstown was confiscated, and never returned into Aylmer hands.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 211

Preston's Gate demolished at Athy around 1860

Athy · town · Kildare · 1648–1860

About the year 1860 an ancient gateway at the southern end of Athy known as Preston's Gate was taken down. A 1793 writer claimed the name was a corruption, and that it was actually the postern gate of the monastery rather than named for General Preston's 1648 retreat through it towards Carlow.

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

As you pass through Athy, you are travelling a town with layers of monastic and military history. About the year 1860 an ancient gateway at the southern end of the town was taken down. It was known as Preston's Gate, and the common story was that it took its name from the retreat of General Preston through it towards Carlow in 1648. A writer in the Anthologia Hibernica of 1793 said that was a corruption, and that it was in fact the postern gate of the monastery that once stood here. The town itself drew its Irish name from two religious buildings anciently standing in the locality. A charter granting the town its own sovereigns or town magistrates was granted in 1613, and they held rule of justice under it. In the churchyard, the oldest date observable is November 1635, on a slab bearing the name William Watson. 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 here in Athy. The last of those town sovereigns, Mr Butler, resided in the dwelling-house of St John's. In St Michael's there is a monument to Mr George King, who was for many years another of the town sovereigns.

Restoration of the Celtic Cross at Moone Abbey

Moone · townland · Kildare · 1835–1893

A Celtic cross found around 1835 buried in Moone Abbey churchyard near the south-eastern wall of the Old Abbey Church was erected on the suggestion of the third Duke of Leinster. In 1893 a missing intermediate shaft section was restored under the direction of Mr. Carroll and Lord Walter FitzGerald, involving scaffolding, iron dowels, and a concrete foundation, at a cost of £8 7s.

Read the passage

This Cross was found about 18d5 buried in Moone Abbey Churchyard, close to the south-eastern wall of the Old Abbey Church.
At the suggestion of tlie tliird Duke of Leinster it was erected where it now stands. It then consisted of two sections. Some time afterwards a third section was discovered, forming an intermediate part of the shaft of the cross previously erected, and it was long felt that it would be very desirable that this fine old Celtic cross sliould be restored as originally designed.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 151

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Moone stands a Celtic cross that was found buried around 1835 in the churchyard, near the south-eastern wall of the Old Abbey Church. The third Duke of Leinster suggested erecting it where it stands. It originally had two sections, but a third section was later discovered, forming an intermediate part of the shaft. In 1893 Mr. Carroll and Lord Walter FitzGerald directed the restoration, using scaffolding, iron dowels and a concrete foundation, at a cost of £8 7s.

Site and precincts of the Dominican Monastery at Athy

Athy · town · Kildare

The Dominican Monastery stood on the east side of the Barrow at Athy, its precincts traditionally extending from the river to the corner of the street leading to Preston's Gate and back to the gardens of the house now called the Abbey.

Read the passage

are told, in the Acts of the Order, “ anno, 1650, with two other Dominican Fathers, in Drogheda, after its capitulation, and led to execution in presence of the whole Cromwellian army, they poured forth their souls in prayer, and so bravely met death.” In 1756, Fathers Dominic Dillon and Thomas Cummins, natives of this district, and who had been educated in the college of SS. Sixtus and Clement, at Home, represented the Dominican community in Atliy. The Dominican Monastery stood on the east side of the Barrow, its precincts extending, according to local tradition, from the river to the corner of the street leading to where Preston’s Gate formerly stood, and from thence to the rear of the gardens of the present house called the Abbey.
The Crouched Friary.*

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 54

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Athy, the Dominican monastery once stood on the east side of the Barrow. Its precincts, by local tradition, ran from the river to the corner of the street leading to where Preston's Gate formerly stood, and back to the gardens of the house now called the Abbey. In 1650, two Dominican Fathers were led to execution in Drogheda after its capitulation, in the presence of the whole Cromwellian army. The Acts of the Order record that "they poured forth their souls in prayer, and so bravely met death." By 1756, Fathers Dominic Dillon and Thomas Cummins, natives of this district who had been educated at the college of SS. Sixtus and Clement in Rome, represented the Dominican community in Athy.

Sovereign of Naas convened corporation meetings in the Tholsell

Naas · town · Kildare · 1700–1740

The sovereign of Naas called meetings of the corporation in the Tholsell, where freemen elected the burgesses, whose number was generally about twenty-four despite attempts to limit it to twelve.

Read the passage

Tlie freemen were the constituency of the corporation. Those were termed “ potwallopers,” who boiled their pot for six months in the Liberties, without really residing therein, in order to obtain the right to vote for Parliamentary elections. The sovereign of Naas called tlie meetings of the corporation in the Tholsell, the freemen elected the burgesses, whose number, generally about twenty-four, does not seem to have been limited, although many attempts were made towards the commencement of the eighteenth century to keep down the number to twelve, exclusive of the sovereign, of which twelve six were to be residents, and the remainder “ gentlemen of fortune in the county.” Burgesses of Parliament seem to have been elected from the list of burgesses by the sovereign, portreeves, and burgesses.
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.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 189

As the companion tells it

Coming up now is Naas, a town in Kildare where corporation business was done in the Tholsell. The sovereign of Naas called the corporation's meetings there, and the freemen elected the burgesses, whose number generally ran to about 24, though attempts were made around the start of the 1700s to keep it down to 12, exclusive of the sovereign. Six of those twelve were to be residents and the rest "gentlemen of fortune in the county." The freemen who made up the corporation's constituency were called "potwallopers," people who boiled their pot for six months in the Liberties without truly living there, to gain the right to vote in Parliamentary elections. Burgesses of Parliament were chosen from the list of burgesses by the sovereign, portreeves, and burgesses. There was friction over who counted as a freeman. In 1686, a great disturbance arose when the corporation decreed that non-resident freemen must pay tolls and customs as foreigners and strangers. The non-resident freemen went to law with the sovereign and apparently lost, because the resident freemen then rewarded the sovereign with £20, three livery cloaks and hats, and "what he shall spend in treating the corporation."

St. Fechin's visit and the Market Cross of Naas

Naas · town · Kildare · 664

Around 664 A.D., St. Fechin visited Naas and obtained the release of certain captives; the Market Cross of Naas was erected in memory of this event.

Read the passage

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.
705 A.D. (Four Masters) — King Congal, or Conalb, Ceann Maghair, son of Fergus of Fanat, while making a hosting

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 127

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Naas, this town holds an old story. Around 664, St. Fechin came here and secured the release of certain captives. The Market Cross of Naas was put up in memory of that event.

Strongbow grants Hy-Muireadaigh territory to Walter de Riddlesford

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1173

In 1173, Richard, Earl of Pembroke (Strongbow), granted the territory of Hy-Muireadaigh, including the district around Castledermot, to Walter de Riddlesford, one of his knights.

Read the passage

1173 A.D. — Richard, Earl of Pembroke (Strongbow), granted the territory of Hy-Miiireadaigh to Walter de Piddlesford, one of his knights, which grant was subsequently confirmed by King John. Strongbow, perhaps, considered he had a right, besides that of conquest, to this district, through his wife, who
366 CASTLEDERMOT : ITS HISTORY AND ANTIQUITIES.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 260

Taghadoe tower base used as church coalshed

Taghadoe · townland · Kildare · 1831–1886

The hollow base of the Taghadoe round tower was used as a coalshed for the adjoining church until the Disestablishment, with a doorway made through a gap in the wall for convenience. In June 1886, when the tower became a national monument, this doorway was built up and ivy stripped from the summit.

Read the passage

Tlie churcliyard in which the Round Tower stands is small, and tlie south and south-eastern portion of it alone is used for burials. On the northern side of it stands the unroofed walls of a modern church, built in 1831, which has been disused since the Disestablishment ; till then the hollow base of the round tower was used as a coalshed for the church, a doorway having been made out of a gap in the wall at the base for convenience. This gap is shown in a sketch of the tower taken in 1794. In June, 1886, when the round tower became a national monument this doorway was built up, a large growtli of ivy which was splitting the wall at the summit was stripped off and uprooted, and the tower was repointed where necessary.
During these repairs the height of the tower was taken and found to measure 65 feet from the plinth to the top ; its diameter inside the base is 9 feet ; its external circumference 51 feet ; and the thickness of the wall at the old doorway, 12 J feet from the ground, 3 feet 4 inches.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 70

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

The stories, best first

Grant of Maynooth Manor and building of the Castle

James FitzGerald outlawed for 1641 rebellion, property confiscated

Legend of the hidden silver bells of Moone Abbey in the Buggawn

Mint established and Parliament held at Castledermot in 1477

Origin of the name Athy from the ford battles

Recovery of the Inscription by an Old Gossoon's Memory

Robert Clifford appointed porter of Kilteel Commandery, 1335

Roman coin of Nemausus found at Nurney

Sigginstown chosen for cessation negotiations, 1643

Slaying of McGrath and wife at Disert Diarmada

St. Brigid's birth-stone at Faughart

Stocks used for punishment before the Town-Hall

Symbolism carved on the North Cross panels at Castledermot

The Eustace Altar-Tomb sculptures at New Abbey

Tumulus at Clane believed to mark Mesgegra's grave and the wartstone

Wolfe Tone buried at Bodenstown churchyard

Woodstock Castle chimney-piece cornice with Fitzgerald arms removed to Carton

17th-century Archbold mural tablet built into a house wall at Timolin

Athy and Naas as assize towns until 1859

Confusion over Patron Saints of Kilteel and Kill

Death of the second Earl and dower to Countess Johanna

Founding of Athy's monasteries and market town status

Kildare plundered repeatedly by the Danes in ninth and tenth centuries

Knight effigy at Timolin linked to Robert Fitz Richard

Naas garrison in great straits for provisions, 1642

Oughterard church ruins used as burial vault by the Ponsonby family

Restoration of Kildrought Manor to Thomas FitzGerald

Scots under Bruce plunder the Franciscan convent

Skeffington retakes Naas from rebellion

St. James's Chapel and Well diverted by parish priest

The Council House at Maynooth Castle and safekeeping of title deeds

The Dominican Friary and its subterraneous passage legend

The last portreeve of Swords dies in America

The old Tholsell of Naas and its assembly rooms

Parish priest praises Duke and Duchess of Leinster's charity to Maynooth's poor

Charter of incorporation for Athy, 1615

Betaghstown: relic of Celtic house of hospitality at Clane

Burning of Newcastle and Lyons castles, pillage of Naas

Death and burial of Thomas, 2nd Earl of Kildare

Eodais martyred by foreigners at Disert Diarmada, 867

Excavation of Kildare Round Tower yields ancient coins

Founding of the Dominican Friary at Athy, 1253

Kilmacduagh tower leans due to burials beneath foundation

King John's visit to Naas

Later use of Athy Castle as prison and police barrack

Lord Leonard Grey's letter on stripping Killeigh abbey for Maynooth college

Maurice Eustace of Castlemartin becomes Speaker and Chancellor

Memorial Tablet for a Stranger Who Died Near Millicent Bridge

Naas Charter of James I confirms Elizabethan borough rights

Naas Described as Unpaved and Unlit in 1837

Only two thatched houses left in Kilcullen, 1646

Ownership history of Kilteel Castle through the centuries

Pillage and retaking of Balrath castle

Preston's Gate demolished at Athy around 1860

Restoration of the Celtic Cross at Moone Abbey

Site and precincts of the Dominican Monastery at Athy

Sovereign of Naas convened corporation meetings in the Tholsell

St. Fechin's visit and the Market Cross of Naas

Strongbow grants Hy-Muireadaigh territory to Walter de Riddlesford

Taghadoe tower base used as church coalshed