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

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

1. The sacred oak of Kildare at Drum Criadh

   Kildare · town · Kildare · 470–484

   St. Brigid chose Drum Criadh as a fit place for her monastery, where a large oak spread its branches; Animosus records she loved this tree greatly and blessed it, and its stem and roots remained visible to his day.

   Read the passage

   It would seem that she founded a religious establishment first near XJisneagh, in Westmeath. After a while she went, with her disciples, to Connauglit, and dwelt in Magh Aoi, a district between Elphin and Itoscommon, possibly at a place now bearing her name, called Killbride, in the parish of Killacken. The people of Leinster, hearing of the wonders she wrought, besought her to return to her native province, and she determined to establish her monastery among them. She was welcomed by all. Drum Criadh seemed to lier a fit place for lier purpose ; a large oak spread its branches around. “ Tliis,” Animosus tells us, “ she loved very much, and she blessed it. Its stem and roots remain to this day.” The date of her settling there is not certain ; it is presumed to liave been 470 ; otliers say 480 and 484. This liouse, small and mean at first, grew to a great size, and soon it beeame the head of some hundreds of sucli houses, scattered throughout the country. Owing to her great repute, Kildare was for a while the metropolitan see of Leinster.

   The precise date of lier death is not known. We shall not be much astray if we take that given by Colgan, namely, A.n. 528 ; nor is it known what her age was at her death. Colgan, who set down her birth as 489, would, consequently, make her more than fourscore, while others say she died at the age of seventy.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 124

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Kildare, you're near Drum Criadh, where St. Brigid settled to build her monastery between 470 and 484. A large oak spread its branches there, and Animosus tells us she loved it greatly and blessed it, and its stem and roots remained visible in his day. That small house grew to head hundreds of houses scattered across the country, and Kildare became for a while the metropolitan see of Leinster.

2. Two bishop-anchorites die in one night at Disert Diarmada, 842

   Castledermot · town · Kildare · 842–844

   In 842 AD, Cunisudh son of Deruo and Maenach son of Sadchadh, both bishops and anchorites, died in one night at Disert Diarmada. The Danes also sacked this abbey around this time.

   Read the passage

   842 A.D. — Cunisudh, sou of Deruo, and Maenaoh, son of ►Sadcliadli, who were both bisliops and ancliorites, died here in one night. — Id. The Danes plundered and sacked this abbey, but whether in this year (842) or 844 is uncertain. — “ Tr. Thaum.”

   8G7 A.D. — Eodais, sou of Dougal, suffered martyrdom here from the foreigners. — “ Four Masters.”

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 258

3. Underground granary caves at Killashee church

   Killashee · townland · Kildare

   Subterraneous artificial caves with pediment roofs were found near Killashee Church, believed to be ancient granaries or refuges dating back to before the arrival of the English. One contained stone walls, flat-stone covering, part of a quern, and fowl bones, and the caves were linked to the ancient monastery there.

   Read the passage

   The Killashee Caves. — When at Killashee, during the excursion in September last year, I understood that these caves liad been accidentally discovered a few years ago when taking a dead apple-tree up by tlie roots, but this must be a mistake, as tliey are mentioned casually by Grose in liis 2nd volume on “ The Antiquities of Ireland,” in 1792, tide p. 84, where he says: — “Directly behind the house, on the rising ground, is Killussy Church, there are a number of caves contiguous, a strong proof of tlie anticpiity of the fabrick.”

   Again, in llie 6rd volume of the “ Transactions of the Ivoyal Irish Academy,” at p. 75, will be found an essay on “Tlie Antiquity of the Church of Killossy,” by William I’eaufort, read on the 20tli of January 1790, and towards the end of it he thus notices these caves : —

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 107

4. Zigzag causeway approach traced at a Carlow cashel

   Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1890–1892

   The author traced a winding, snake-like approach roughly 150 yards long leading to a large cashel in County Carlow, running through low ground that could be flooded to conceal the path. This winding route, rather than a straight one, was believed designed to make approach difficult for enemies, especially at night.

   Read the passage

   With regard to the roads of S or snake-like approaches above referred to, I may remark that at a very large “ cashel ” in the county Carlow I last year traced the approach from the present

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 275

5. Double effigy of Sir Rowland Fitz Eustace at New Abbey

   New Abbey · street · Kildare · 1496

   At New Abbey near Kilcullen Bridge lies a double effigy of Sir Rowland Fitz Eustace, Baron of Portlester, who died in 1496, and his wife Margaret Jenico.

   Read the passage

   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.

   At Old Kilcullen (one) was formerly an effigy of Sir Oliver (?) Pitz Eustace, who died in . Por safety this monument was re-

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 109

   As the companion tells it

   Along here at New Abbey, near Kilcullen Bridge, a double effigy lies side by side showing Sir Rowland Fitz Eustace and his wife Margaret Jenico. Sir Rowland was Baron of Portlester, and he died in 1496. An effigy of Sir Oliver Fitz Eustace once stood at Old Kilcullen but was moved for safety.

6. Great Moat at Rathmore threatened by gravel quarrying

   Rathmore · townland · Kildare · 1895

   The Society resolved to take steps to prevent the demolition of the Great Moat at Rathmore, which road contractors were using as a gravel pit. This shows contemporary destruction of an ancient earthwork monument in County Kildare.

   Read the passage

   “ That steps be taken Ly the County Kildare Archajological Society to prevent the demolition of the Great Moat at Rathmore, which is now being used as a gravel pit by the road contractors.”

   The Earl of Mayo read the following letter which he had received from the Duchess of Leinster acknowledging the receipt of the vote of condolence passed by the Society at their Meeting January 17th, 1894, on the death of the late Duke of Leinster, the first President of the Society, expressing her great appreciation of the Society’s message of sympathy : —

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 249

7. The Chair of Kildare as possible chieftain inauguration site

   Kildare · town · Kildare

   The O'Toole chiefs are said to have been inaugurated at the Chair of Kildare, and there is a local tradition that this stone seat may have been used for such inauguration purposes.

   Read the passage

   * The Chair of Kildare may have been used for some such purpose, as there is a tradition in the locality to that effect.

   t It was a common practice for a Chief on overcoming a rebellious rival, if he did not put him to death, to blind him, and so disqualify him from ever becoming Chieftain.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Kildare, there is a place known as the Chair of Kildare. Local tradition says the O'Toole chiefs were inaugurated at this stone seat. The sources also note that a chief who overcame a rebellious rival might blind him rather than kill him, so disqualifying him from ever becoming chieftain.

8. Athy burned by the Irish, 1308

   Athy · town · Kildare · 1308

   In 1308 the town of Athy was burned by the Irish, reflecting the frontier conflicts between English settlers and neighbouring septs such as the O'Mores and O'Kellys.

   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

   You are coming through Athy, a town in Kildare that grew up around two monasteries founded in the middle of the 13th century by English settlers. The monks and most of the townspeople were English, and the place had the rights of a market town, with fairs and customs and tolls. But it sat on a frontier, exposed to assaults from neighbouring septs, especially the O'Mores and the O'Kellys, whose territories adjoined, and it was fortified from an early date. In 1308 the town was burned by the Irish. The trouble did not end there. On Candlemas Day in 1309, Lord John Bonnevill was slain near the town of Ardscull by Lord Anthony Power and his followers. His body was buried here in Athy, in the Church of the Friars Preachers. The following year, at a Parliament held in Kildare, Lord Anthony Power was acquitted of the killing, as it was proved to have been done in self-defence. A few years later, in 1315, Athy was plundered again, this time by the Scots under Edward Bruce, after the battle of Ardscull. Raymond le Grace and Sir William Prendergast were killed on one side, and Sir Fergus Andressan and Sir Walter Murray on the Scottish side, all of whom were buried in the Dominican Abbey of Athy.

9. Aylmer canopied altar-tomb at Donadea

   Donadea · townland · Kildare · 1617–1634

   A canopied altar-tomb at Donadea, erected in 1626, bears kneeling figures of Sir Gerald Aylmer, Bart., who died in 1634, and his wife Dame Julia Nugent, who died in 1617.

   Read the passage

   Doxadea. — The monument here is hardly of the same class as those before mentioned, and is of more modern date (the beginning of the 17th century; it consists of a canopied altar-tomb, on which are the kneeling figures of Sir Gerald Aylmer, Bart., who died in 1634, and of his wife. Dame Julia Nugent, who died in 1617.

   This elaborately designed monument was erected in 1626.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 146

10. Guardhouse built under the Sessions House for police cells

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1690

    In 1690 a guardhouse was made under the Sessions House (formerly the Tholsell), probably used for police cells, showing continuity of civic law enforcement infrastructure in Naas.

    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

    Naas has a long civic history centred on one building, the old Tholsell, which stood on a site running in 1786 from the Presbyterian Meeting House to near the weigh-house. A flight of steps on its south side led up to the assembly rooms, with a cellar underneath measuring 7 feet by 9 feet. Cellars beneath the rooms were let to William Fforster in 1664, a bell worth £5 was hung in the Tholsell in 1676, and the garretts overhead were let to Richard Eustace in 1678. In 1681 the county was to have ground for a new Sessions House, 48 feet by 40 feet, and the name Sessions House generally replaced Tholsell, though it remained on the same site. In 1690 a guardhouse was made under the Sessions House, probably for police cells. By 1714 the Sessions House was allowed to house a school.

11. Jigginstown Castle, seat of the Earl of Strafford

    Jigginstown · townland · Kildare · 1891

    The Society members drove to Jigginstown Castle, described as the residence of the celebrated Earl of Strafford, which was described to the party by Mr. Arthur Vicars.

    Read the passage

    Luncheon was then partaken of in the Town Hall, thu arrangements for which had been admirably made by Mr. H. Hendrick Aylmer. Luncheon over, a short visit was paid to the North Moat, contiguous to the town, and then, at 4 p.m., the members drove to Jigginstown Castle, tlie residence of tlie celebrated Earl of Strafford, which Mr. Arthur Vicars described ; after whicli a vote of tlianks to Lev. D. Murphy, Archdeacon de Burgh, and Mr. Arthur Vicars for their papers was proposed by Mr. Cooke-Trench, seconded by Lord Mayo, and the day’s proceedings came to a close.

    The railway company issued return tickets to members at single fares, and altogether the arrangements for the convenience of those attending the meeting worked without a hitch,, and the hours on the programme were kept to with commendable punctuality.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 8

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Jigginstown are the remains of the castle that was the residence of the celebrated Earl of Strafford. Back in 1891 the County Kildare Archaeological Society drove out here at 4 p.m., after lunch in the Town Hall and a visit to the North Moat. A man called Mr. Arthur Vicars described the castle to the party. That was the last stop of their day. After his talk, a vote of thanks was proposed to Reverend D. Murphy, Archdeacon de Burgh, and Mr. Arthur Vicars for their papers, and the proceedings came to a close. The railway company had issued return tickets to members at single fares, and the whole outing ran with commendable punctuality.

12. Maynooth's deer-park, the only one besides Ormonde's in Ireland, 1618

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1618

    In 1618 it was recorded that the only deer-parks in Ireland were those of the Earl of Kildare at Maynooth and the Earl of Ormonde in Munster.

    Read the passage

    In 1618, it appears that the only deer-parks in Ireland were those of the Earl of Kildare at Maynooth, and the Earl of Ormonde in Munster.§

    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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 163

13. Oughterard burned during the 1094 hosting recorded in the Annals

    Oughterard · townland · Kildare · 1094

    The Annals of the Four Masters record that in 1094 the men of Ireland, gathered under various kings including Muircheartach Ua Briain, marched to Magh-Reaghain and burned Uachtar-ard (Oughterard), routing the men of Munster, Leinster and Ossory.

    Read the passage

    The men of Ireland collected to Dublin, name!}’, l\Iuircheartach uaBriaiii, with ^Iimstci'inen, the men of 0.ssorv, and the Leinstermen ; Domlmall, the son of ^lac Lochlainn, King; of Oileach, with the Cinel-Conaill and Cinel- Loghain ; Domhnall, sou of Flann, King of Teamhair, with the men of Meath ; Doniichadh Uah Eochadha, with the Ulidiaus ; and Godfrey, lord of the foreigners and of .Vth-cliath, with ninety ships. These proceeded from the East to .Magh- Eaigheaii, and they burned Uachtar-ard, and routed the men of i\Iunster, Leinster, and Ossory, who fled, without spilling blood. After this the Ulstermen returned home, for they did not wish to plunder Leinster.

    To tlie west of tlie ruins above mentioned stands the round tower, which according to the Ordnance Surve3" Map is 34 feet in height ; the upper portion is in a veiy dilapidated state. It is built of large rough C|uarry-stones of the green-flag ” t3^pe common in the district, which decrease greatly in size in the upper portion ; the3^ are laid in irregular courses.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 64

14. Society luncheon at Carton House hosted by the Duke of Leinster

    Carton House · site · Kildare · 1893

    The Duke of Leinster hosted around 200 Society members to luncheon at Carton, with members later touring the mansion's interior, viewing objects of antiquarian interest, fine pictures, and the grounds, including the stone table of Gerald, 9th Earl of Kildare.

    Read the passage

    ' Luncheon was served in the Packet Court, which afforded ample accommodation. At the conclusion of luncheon the Earl of Donoughmore proposed the health of the host and hostess in fitting terms, which was responded to by the Duke of Leinster * after which the Members proceeded to view the interior of the house, whicli formed no small part of the day’s pleasures. The company were received in the hall by the Duke and Duchess, and wandered through the mansion, inspecting the numerou& ohjet8 (I’rn-t and fine pictures to the strains of the organ in the saloon, which was presided at by Mr. Yipond Barry. Objects of antiquarian interest were laid out on tables in the hall, and the Duke himself conducted the party through the rooms and described the pictures. The grounds liad also tlieir attractions^ including the stone table of Gerald 9th Earl of Kildare.

    The day was far too short to see all one wished, and it was with reluctance the company parted to catcli their various trains. The weather throughout was all that could be desired, and arrangements for the conveyance of the Members and their friends worked to tlie satisfaction of everyone.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 150

15. The Monastery of Tulach-Fobhair at Millbrook

    near Millbrook · sub-townland · Kildare · 600–699

    This monastery was founded in the 7th century by St. Fechin of Fobhair on land given by a King of Leinster, near Corbin's Mill. Close to the site is Sunday's Well, where St. Patrick is said to have baptized.

    Read the passage

    It was founded in the 7th century by St. Fechin of Fobhair, and built upon land given by a King of Leinster. Close to the site is Sunday’s Well, where St. Patrick is said to have baptized.

    Ware says the Monastery was dependent upon “ Foure ” (Fore) in Westmeath (Comerford, O’Hanlon).

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 231

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Millbrook stood the Monastery of Tulach-Fobhair, founded in the 7th century by St. Fechin of Fobhair on land given by a King of Leinster. Close to the site is Sunday's Well, where St. Patrick is said to have baptized. Ware says the monastery was dependent on Fore in Westmeath.

16. Ancient baptismal font found built into Clane's old church tower

    Clane · town · Kildare

    An ancient baptismal font, possibly a relic of the old Celtic church, was found some years before writing built into the wall of the old church tower at Clane. It was removed, re-dressed, and mounted in the new Church of St. Michael and All Angels.

    Read the passage

    Nevertheless, such buildings would fall an easy prey to the ravages of wxar ; and neglect, inevitable in troublous times, would suffice to reduce them to ruin and decay, so that we need not wonder that they speedily disappeared. It is possible, indeed, that an ancient baptismal font, which was found some 3'ears since built in the wall of the old church tower at Clane, is really a relic of the old Celtic church. It has been removed, re- dressed, and handsomelj" mounted in the new Church of St. Hichnel and all Angels.

    We have, however, an interesting memorial of the Celtic age in the lands which form the endowment of Hewetson’s school, which go bj^ the name of Betaghs-town.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 26

17. Ancient fair held at Mainham linked to funeral rites

    Mainham · townland · Kildare

    A fair was historically held at Mainham, a place otherwise unremarkable commercially, which the author argues indicates its origin in ancient funeral rites and games held at royal tombs, similar to the fair of Tailte in Meath.

    Read the passage

    4. The fact that in former times a fair was held at Mainham curiously confirms this vdew. When we find that a fair has been regularly held in a place that is at present neither central, nor of any commercial importance, we may conclude that it had its origin in times very remote, when that place was, for some reason or other, a natural resort of the people of the country. In ancient times the Irish fairs were always held in cemeteries, and had their origin in funeral rites, and games annually celebrated by the tombs of departed monarchs and nobles of the laud.J There, while the dead were honoured with

    * OTurry’s Lectures on “ The Manners and Customs of the Ancient Irish,” Introduction, p. xcviii and note.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 225

18. Anglo-Norman grant of Naas to Maurice Fitzgerald

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1175

    In 1175, Strongbow granted Naas Ofelin, formerly the estate of MacEithlenn or McKellan, to Maurice Fitzgerald to hold by Knight's service, while the McKellans had resided at the Moat of Ardscull.

    Read the passage

    1175. — Strongbow gave Carbide to Meyler FitzIIenry (son of Henry I. and the beautiful Nesta), and Naas Ofelin, formerly the estate of MacEithlenn or McKellan or Makelanes, to Maurice Fitzgerald, holding by Knight’s service. The McKellans’ resided at the Moat of Ardscull.

    Extract from an old French poem : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, you are moving through land that in 1175 Strongbow granted to Maurice Fitzgerald to hold by Knight's service. It had been the estate of the McKellans, who resided at the Moat of Ardscull.

19. Aylmers of Lyons fight for James II and are attainted

    Lyons · townland · Kildare · 1689–1691

    During the 1689 rebellion several Aylmers of Lyons fought on King James's side, but Garret and George Aylmer of Lyons were attainted in the ensuing confiscations along with several others of the name.

    Read the passage

    A few yearS’ of peace succeeded the Eestoration. During this period the Duke of Ormonde was Viceroy of Ireland, and, perhaps, the fact that he was brother-in-law of Sir Andrew Aylmer of Donadea may, in part, account for the Ajdmer family recovering a good of their property. But the Eevolution again brought troubles. The Aylmers were nearly all Jacobites, and fought for James II. against AYilliam III. Thus we read : — “ In the rebellion of 1689 there w^ere engaged on King James’s side Lieutenant-Colonel George Aylmer of Lyons, Gerald Aylmer, Major in Lord Abercorn’s troop of horse ; Captain George Aylmer ; Lieutenant Peter Aylmer. In the confiscations of this time Garret and George Aylmer of Lyons were attainted, with six others of the name, several of whom were Aylmers of Ballykenane. Tw^o Aylmers of Balrath, Matthew and George, having become Protestants, fought on the other side.

    1 . The Aylmers of Lyons.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 212

20. Battlements added to Kildare Round Tower

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1700–1739

    The round tower of Kildare originally had a conical stone roof, now missing, replaced by five stepped battlements peculiar to Ireland. Harris's edition of Ware's Works records that these battlements were added during repairs in the early eighteenth century, replacing an irregular broken wall.

    Read the passage

    “It is manifest,” he sa3's, “ that some of the round towers have had artificial battlements added to them in later times ; witness tlie tower of Kildare, which having been pointed and repaired within these few years, had then a regular neat battlement raised on it, which before was only an irregular broken wall, as appears b}^ tlie scheme given thereof bj^ Sir Thomas IMolyneaux, taken before it was repaired, and which I myself veiy well remember.” (This was written in the first half of the last centuiy.)

    The height of the tower from the top of the battlements to the plinth, or projecting course of stones at the base, is 105| feet. Several works on Irish antiquities have made, or repeated, a glaring error in stating the height is about 132 feet. Among others this misstatement is to be found in : — -

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 66

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, the round tower here once had a conical stone roof that is now missing. In the early 1700s, during repairs, five stepped battlements were raised on top, replacing what had been only an irregular broken wall. Harris's edition of Ware's Works records that a regular neat battlement was added, and that Sir Thomas Molyneaux had drawn the tower before it was repaired. The tower stands 105 feet from the top of the battlements to the plinth at its base, though several works on Irish antiquities wrongly give the height as about 132 feet.

21. Bermingham altar-tomb effigy at Dunfierth

    Dunfierth · townland · Kildare · 1548

    Portions of an altar-tomb bearing the effigy of a knight, with impaled coats-of-arms of Bermingham/FitzGerald and Bermingham/Plunkett, are built into the modern Hamilton vault at Dunfierth. The effigy represents Sir William Bermingham, first Baron Carbery, who died in 1548.

    Read the passage

    The knight represents Sir William Bermingham, first Baron Carbery, who died in 1548.

    Doxadea. — The monument here is hardly of the same class as those before mentioned, and is of more modern date (the beginning of the 17th century; it consists of a canopied altar-tomb, on which are the kneeling figures of Sir Gerald Aylmer, Bart., who died in 1634, and of his wife. Dame Julia Nugent, who died in 1617.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 146

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Dunfierth, portions of an altar-tomb are built into the modern Hamilton vault. The knight on the effigy represents Sir William Bermingham, first Baron Carbery, who died in 1548. The tomb bears impaled coats-of-arms of Bermingham with FitzGerald, and Bermingham with Plunkett.

22. Broken altar-tomb effigy of a knight at Castlemartin

    Castlemartin · townland · Kildare

    At Castlemartin are the remains of a broken altar-tomb bearing an effigy of a knight in armour, probably a Eustace, the ancient proprietor of the site. The remains are so damaged that it is impossible to determine if the tomb bore an inscription or an effigy of the knight's wife.

    Read the passage

    At Castlemartix are the remains of an altar-tomb, which bore an effigy of a knight in armour, probably a Eustace, the ancient proprietor. The remains are so broken up, and so much is missing, that it is impossible to find out if the tomb bore an inscription, or if there was an effigy of the knight’s wife as well. — Walter Eitz Gerald.

    344

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 245

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Castlemartin are the broken remains of an altar-tomb that once bore the effigy of an armoured knight, probably a Eustace, the ancient proprietor of this place. The tomb is so damaged and so much is missing that no one can tell whether it ever carried an inscription, or whether the knight's wife was carved there beside him.

23. Clane derives its name from an ancient ford

    Clane · town · Kildare

    The parish of Clane, divided by the river Liffey, derived one of its names, Clane-Ath, meaning 'the meadow of the ford', from an ancient ford near the site of the present bridge of Clane.

    Read the passage

    The present bridges of Clane and Millicent are at or near the site of two ancient fords. From the former of these Clane derived one of its names, Clane-Ath — the meadow of the ford. The other gave its name to Castle Size. The name of Castle Size as given in old maps is Casan Size, and the word Castle has been erroneously substituted for Casan, there never having been a castle at the spot. Casan in Irish means a path, and points to the existence of a ford or of a path down to the river, which, at no remote period, was marked by stepping-stones. Size, the second part of the name, has, I think, in course of time come to take the place of Soillse, which means “ light.” Thus the original form of the name was, I believe, Casan- Soillse, tlui path of the light, either because there was a ford across the river, or that a path led down to it, where a light used to be shown to guide travellers on dark and stormy nights when the stream was in flood and dangerous. Many fords in different

    * Read at the Society’s meeting on 27tli January, 1892, at the Town Hall, Naas.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 23

24. Con Baccagh O'Neill submits to the King at Maynooth

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1550

    In 1550, Con Baccagh O'Neill, Chief of Tyrone, went to Maynooth to the Lord Deputy and made his submission to the King's authority.

    Read the passage

    In 1550, Con Baccagh O’Neill, the Chief of Tyrone, went

    * State Papers, vol. ii., p. 300. f Ihid., vol. ii., p. 254.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 162

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Maynooth now. In 1550, Con Baccagh O'Neill, Chief of Tyrone, came here to the Lord Deputy and made his submission to the King's authority.

25. Council granting subsidy to Earl of Ormonde at Castledermot

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1404

    A Council was held at Tristledermot in 1404 granting a subsidy to the Earl of Ormonde due to danger from enemies and rebels of the land.

    Read the passage

    1404 A.T). — A Council was held at Tristledermot on the Monday next after the feast of St. David, Bishop, 5th Hen. IV., when a grant was made of a subsidy to the Earl of Ormonde, in consequence of the danger imminent from the enemies and rebels of the land. — “ Ormonde Archives.”

    1405 A.n. — MaclMurrogh waged war with the English, during which the Contae Peagh (Wexford) together with Carlow and Disert Diarmada were plundered and burned. — ‘‘ Four Masters.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 261

26. Death of St. Auxilius at Killashee (Cealusaille)

    Killashee · townland · Kildare · 458–461

    Ussher records that St. Auxilius, after performing many miracles, ended his holy life in his city called Cealusaille, in the plain of the Leinstermen, a place that took its name from him.

    Read the passage

    In Spelinan’s “ Concilia,” published in 1619, we find the decrees of a synod held by St. Patrick which bears the title : Synodus Episcoporurn, i.e, Patricii, Auxilii, et Issernini. From this title some have inferred that Auxilius must have had some special eminence or authority among the bishops, for the laws made there were for the whole Irish Church, and other bishops, as Ailbe of Enily, Kieran of Saiger, and Declan of Ardmore, would have been present as a matter of course. There is a passage in the “ Chronicon Scotorum” that seems to refer to the dignity of Auxilius and his two companions; it is under the date 438, and runs thus: “ Secundinus, Auxilius, and Isserninus are sent to the Irish, but they obtained not preeminence or authority (csi]\ecii]' ii5-o.osp]\x^'l') in the time of Patrick alone.” The passage is certainly an obscure one. dime will not allow me to enter more fully on its meaning. AVare puts the date of this synod as “ about ccccl.” I^ssher does not fix the date of it ; he says it must have taken place after ccccxlviii., the year of St. SecundiiiLis’s death, for no mention is made in it of him, though the names of Auxilius and Isserninus are given. It could not have been later than 459, for the following year is the one usually set down as that after the death of St. Auxilius : for instance, ill Plssher, vi. 385: “Auxilius after he had wrought many miracles ended his holy life in his city (civitas), which is called Cealusaille, in the plain of the Leinstermen.” And again in his “ Chronologia Sacra,” under the date cccclx. : “ Auxilius, bishop, nephew of St. Patrick, ended his days in the city of Ceallusailli, which has taken its name from him.”

    The Four Masters, on the authority of the “ Annals of Clonmacnoise ” and of “ Inisfallen,” give 458 as the date of his death. Others give it as 460. Colgan does no more than

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

27. Death of St. Diarmaid, founder of Disert Diarmada

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 823

    The Annals of the Four Masters record the death in 823 of Diarmaid, grandson of Aedh Roin, an anchorite and distinguished doctor who founded the monastery at Disert Diarmada (Castledermot).

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 60

28. Death of Stephen Scroop from plague at Castledermot

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1408

    Stephen Scroop died at Tristledermot of the plague on the Feast of St. Marcellas in 1408.

    Read the passage

    1408 A.D. — Stephen Scroop died at Tristledermot of the plague on the Feast of St. Marcellas. — (Marlborough).

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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 261

29. Description of Kilteel Castle's Tower and Courtyard

    Kilteel · parish · Kildare · 1891

    The author details the structure of Kilteel Castle, a tower twenty-six feet eight by twenty feet six and a-half, forty-six feet high, with a round turret staircase and gateway. The courtyard was ankle-deep in mud and partly divided by a low wall of possibly later construction.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

30. Disert Diarmada plundered by foreigners of Narrow Water, 841

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 841

    In 841 AD, Disert Diarmada (Castledermot) was plundered by the foreigners of Cael-uisce, or Narrow Water in County Down, as recorded in the Annals of the Four Masters.

    Read the passage

    841 A.]). — This place was pluDflerecI by the foreigners of Cael-iiisce (Narrow-water, County Down). — “ Four Masters.’^

    842 A.D. — Cunisudh, sou of Deruo, and Maenaoh, son of ►Sadcliadli, who were both bisliops and ancliorites, died here in one night. — Id. The Danes plundered and sacked this abbey, but whether in this year (842) or 844 is uncertain. — “ Tr. Thaum.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 258

31. Fair granted at the Manor of Naas by Henry III

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1226–1229

    In 1226 Henry III granted to William Baron of Naas that he have, until the King's majority, a fair at the Manor of Naas for eight days during the vigil and octave of St. Simon and St. Jude.

    Read the passage

    In 1226 Henry III., granted to William Barun of Naas that he have, till the King’s majority (1229), a fair at the Manor of Naas for eight days, during the vigil and during the octave of St. Simon and St. Jude October 26th to November 4th).

    Thus we have the Lord of Ireland conferring the Lordship of Leinster, and him conferring among others the Lordship or Barony of Naas, the Lord of Naas conferring amongst other manors those previously mentioned.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 238

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, you are on ground where a medieval fair once ran by royal grant. In 1226 Henry III granted William Baron of Naas the right to hold a fair here for eight days, from the vigil to the octave of St. Simon and St. Jude, October 26th to November 4th. The grant lasted only until the King's majority in 1229.

32. Fifty tons of bones sold for manure from a Strokestown crannog

    Strokestown · town · Roscommon

    At a crannog near Mr Toler-Aylward's place at Strokestown, County Roscommon, no less than fifty tons of animal bones taken from the site were reportedly sold for manure, evidence of long occupation.

    Read the passage

    When I come later on to mention some of the things that have been found in crannogs, you will be able to Judge better of the different eras through wdiich they passed. Little, if any, doubt can exist as to their having, in some instances at all events, been occupied for periods of great length. The enormous quantity of bones of animals that have been, in comparatively late years, taken from the sites of crannogs is truly astonishing. At one, in the County Eoscommon, near Mr. Toler-Aylward’s place at Strokestowm, no less than fifty tons of bones are said to have been sold for manure. But wffiat throws even this mass of bones into the shade is the quantity stated to have been bought by a Mr. Silk, of Loughrea. from crannogs near there, which amounted to no less than 300 tons !

    ^ 30,000 piles is the number estimated by one ^rriter as having been used in the formation of a single crannog.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 273

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Strokestown, there was once a crannog near here, by Mr Toler-Aylward's place. These crannogs were occupied for very long periods, and the evidence at this one is striking. No less than 50 tons of animal bones were taken from the site and sold for manure. That vast heap of bones speaks to generations of use. One writer estimated that 30,000 piles went into the formation of a single crannog.

33. Founding tradition of Naas at Broadfield

    Broadfield · townland · Kildare

    Bardic history claims Naas was founded by Lewy of the Long Hand, with tradition holding that the original builders began the town in the townland of Broadfield. Naas served as capital of the district called Airther Life or Maistean.

    Read the passage

    Naas or Nas (Celtic), or le Nas (in mediaeval times), means a fair, a place of meeting, or place of the elders : .^nach or Nas was an assembly of the people for any purpose. Bardic history relates that it was founded by Lewy of the Long Hand, and according to an ancient tradition the original founders commenced the building of the town somewhere in the townland of Broadfield. Naas was the capital of the district called Airther Life or Maistean, and in the sixth, seventh, and eighth centuries the States of Leinster assembled here after the Naasteighan of Carmen* had been auathemized by the Christian clergy.

    Tuathal Teachtmar, King of Ireland, who died about 160 A.D., had two beautiful daughters, Fithir and Darina. Eochy Aiucheaun, King of Leinster, married Darina and carried her to his palace at Naas. Eochy determined by stratagem to obtain Fithir also to wife. For this purpose he shut Darina up in an apartment of his palace, andjgave out a report that she was dead. He then repaired to Tara, and, with great appearance of grief, informed Tuatlial that his daughter was dead, and asked for her sister. Tuathal consented, and Eochy returned home with his new wife. Soon afterwards, however, Darina, escaping from her prison, unexpectedly met her husband and her sister. The latter fell dead before her face, and the young queen soon died of a broken heart. Tuathal, at the head of a powerful force, avenged the insult to his daughter by conquering and beheading

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 126

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, bardic history says Lewy of the Long Hand founded Naas, and an ancient tradition holds that the original builders started the town close to Broadfield. The name Naas means a fair or a place of meeting, a gathering of the people. It was the capital of the district called Airther Life or Maistean, and in the sixth, seventh, and eighth centuries the States of Leinster assembled here. There is a darker tale tied to this place too. Tuathal Teachtmar, King of Ireland, who died about 160 AD, had two daughters, Fithir and Darina. Eochy Aiucheaun, King of Leinster, married Darina and brought her to his palace at Naas. He wanted her sister Fithir as well, so he shut Darina away and spread word that she was dead. He went to Tara, told Tuathal his daughter had died, and asked for her sister. Tuathal consented. But Darina escaped her prison and met her husband and her sister face to face. Fithir fell dead before her, and the young queen soon died of a broken heart. Tuathal raised a powerful force, conquered Eochy, and beheaded him.

34. Grangemellon's tumulus and view of St. Leger's Castle ruins

    Grangemellon · townland · Kildare

    Grangemellon, meaning 'Grange of the Mill', is a townland on the banks of the Barrow three miles south of Athy. From an old tumulus near the river, the ruins of St. Leger's Castle can be viewed, consisting of two octagonal towers flanking an archway in the Jacobean style, along with old fish-ponds and a walled spring.

    Read the passage

    The ruins now consist of two octagonal towers flanking an archway in a wonderful state of preservation, and built in the Jacobean style. In the immediate vicinity are three or four large fish-ponds, an old stone well, or rather walled-in spring, and the walls of a large garden or orchard, while some fine walnut and Spanish chestnut-trees and a couple of very old mulberry-trees show where the extensive pleasure and fruit gardens stood.

    An earl}^ mention of Grangemellon is to be found in the assignment of Dower, granted to Anastasia, the wife of Sir David Wogan, of Bathcoffey, dated the 24th February, 1418, by which she wasallowedf : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 72

35. Monasterboice round tower burned with books and treasures

    Monasterboice · townland · Louth · 1097

    In 1097 the Cloicteach of Monasterboice was burned along with its books and many treasures.

    Read the passage

    1097 'J'iie Cloictheacli of Monasterboice, with its books and many treasures, was burned.

    1171 The Cloictheacli of Tullyard was burned by Tiernan O’Rourke, with its full of people in it.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 57

36. Muiregan Slain by Norsemen at Naas

    Naas · town · Kildare · 861

    Muiregan, lord of Nas (Naas) and Aither-Life, was slain by the Norsemen in the year 861.

    Read the passage

    Muiregan, lord of Nas and Aither-Life, slain by I the Norsemen 861.

    Maelmordha, lord of Aither-Life, was slain by I the Danes at the battle of Confey, near I Leixlip, in 915.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Naas now. In 861, Muiregan, lord of Naas and Aither-Life, was slain by the Norsemen. That is nearly all the record holds, beyond his name and his two titles.

37. Origin of the name Palmerstown near Naas

    Palmerstown · townland · Kildare · 1169

    Palmerstown, Co. Kildare, is traced to a family named Palmer who came to Ireland in 1169 with the Anglo-Norman invasion and settled near the place that took their name. Thomas Hibernicus, a writer born there, took the name Palmeranus or Palmerstonensis from it.

    Read the passage

    “Wadding, Ware, &c., knew better than Echard that the family of Palmer, though originally English, came to Ireland with many others in 1169, and took up their dwelling, near Palmerstown, i. e. Palmer’s town ; and as this was the native place of Thomas Hibernicus, ‘ a writer,’ he took the name of Palmeranus, or Palmerstonensis, from it.”

    There is a mention in De Burgo of the name Palmer : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, the name goes back to a family called Palmer who came to Ireland in 1169 with the Anglo-Norman invasion and settled near this place, Palmer's town. A writer born here, Thomas Hibernicus, took the name Palmeranus, or Palmerstonensis, from it.

38. O'Tooles Settle Around Powerscourt in Fercullen

    Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow

    In later times the O'Toole sept extended their power and some settled in the district of Fercullen, situated around Powerscourt, corresponding to the half-barony of Rathdown.

    Read the passage

    After the Anglo-Norman invasion the O’Tooles were driven from this district hy the Baron Walter de Eiddlesford, and took refuge in the neighbouring mountains of Wicklow, where they seized upon Imaile, a territory then belonging to the O’Teige sept, and settled in it. In after-times they extended their sway, and some of the sept settled in the district of Fercullen, which was situated around Powerscourt, and was co-extensive with the half-barony of Eathdown, adjoining the Co. Dublin.

    The name of this territory is preserved at the present day in that of “the Deanery of Omurthi,” which, according to the Eoyal Visitation Book of 1615, comprises the following parishes in the county : — Athy, Castlereban, Kilberry, Dollardstown, Nicholastown, Tankardstown, Kilkea, Crangerosnolvan, Belan, Castledermot, Grange (Graney ?), Moone, Timolin, Narraghmore, Kilcullen, and Uske. And this authority adds : — “ Adjacent to the deanery of Omurthi is the parish church of Damenoge (Duumanoge) and the parisli church of Fontstown (formerly Ballintubber).”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 122

39. Parliament held at Naas by Archbishop Talbot

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1419

    In 1419, a Parliament was held at Naas by R. Talbot, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Deputy of Ireland, which granted a subsidy of 300 marcs.

    Read the passage

    1419. — A Parliament was held at Naas by R. Talbot, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Deputy of Ireland. This Parliament granted a subsidy of 300 marcs.

    The condition of the county in 1435 is described in the missive of that date from the Parliament of Ireland to Henry VI., which states that “ within the Counties of Dyvelin, Mith, Loueth, and Kyldare, there are scarisly 30 miles in lengthe and 20 miles in breede ther as a man may surely ride other go to answerre to the Kinges writtes and his commandements.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, you're moving through a town that once hosted a Parliament. In 1419, R. Talbot, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Deputy of Ireland, convened a Parliament here, which granted a subsidy of 300 marcs.

40. Plundering of oratories including Castledermot in 1048

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1048

    Disert Diarmada, along with Moone, Dunmanoge, and Clonmore, were plundered by Diarmaid, son of Mael-na-mbo, lord of Ui-Cinseallaigh, who carried away many persons from these oratories.

    Read the passage

    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.

    1054 A.D. — Cuileannan Clean, lector of Leighlin and Disert Diarmada, died. — Id.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 259

41. Remains of the Franciscan Convent described by Lewis (1837)

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1837

    Lewis's Topographical Dictionary of 1837 describes the extensive remains of the Franciscan Convent at Castledermot, including the Abbey Church with lancet windows and the Chapel of St. Mary, and a low square tower with a circular staircase turret.

    Read the passage

    Considerable remains of this monastery still exist, though greatly reduced and mutilated, even within the memory of persons still living. Lewis, “ Top Diet.,” writing in 1837, thus describes them : — “ The extensive and beautiful remains of the Franciscan Convent consist, at present, chiefly of the Abbey Church and the Chapel of St. Mary, the former a long building lighted at the west end by two lofty lancet-shaped windows, and at the east end by a window which, though now greatly mutilated, appears to have been of elegant design. On the south side, and attached to the church, is a low, square tower, with a circular staircase turret ; and on the north side, opening into the church by a lofty arch, was the Chapel of the Blessed Virgin, distinguished for the elegance and richness of its

    k

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 264

42. Roman Coin from Nismes Found at Nurney

    Nurney · town · Kildare · 1891

    A coin of the Roman Colony of Nismes was exhibited by the Rev. Thomas Morrin on behalf of Bishop Comerford, having been found at Nurney, Co. Kildare.

    Read the passage

    The Rev. Thomas Morrin exhibited, for Bishop Comerford, a coin of the Roman Colony of Nismes, found at Nurney, Co. Kildare.

    The Rev. Denis Murphy exhibited an ancient Irish Crozier, belonging to Clongowes Wood College.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

43. Society excursion visits Maynooth College and its new chapel

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1893

    The Society visited Maynooth College, where Monsignor Browne, President of the College, received them and gave a history of the College and its benefactors, foremost among them the Ducal House of Leinster. Members admired the new chapel and explored the Library and grounds.

    Read the passage

    The company tlieii walked to the adjoining College of Maynootli, Avhere they were received by the President of the College, Monsignor Browne, and conducted over tlie huihlings. The fine new cliapel called fortli universal admiration, and liere everyone rested, whilst Monsignor Browne from his stall addressed the Society in most eloquent language, giving a history of tlie College and of its benefactors from its foundation— foremost amongst these was the Ducal House of Leinster. Some of the Members then proceeded to the Library, and examined its treasures, whilst others wandered about the extensive grounds, and later wended their way to the church of Maynooth, at the College gate, where the Lector, the Lev. Dr. Tristram, read a short Paper on the history of the edifice.

    It being now near two o’clock the Members betook themselves in a long stream of vehicles to Carton. Here the Duke of Leinster had kindly invited all the Society to luncheon, and some idea can be formed of the magnitude of the invitation when it is stated that some 200 availed themselves of it. Everything was done in the most perfect manner, even to the luncheon tickets, which displayed across the surface the wellknown red saltire of the FitzGeralds.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 150

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Maynooth, you are on the road the Society travelled in 1893, when they walked to Maynooth College and were received by the President, Monsignor Browne. He conducted them over the buildings, and the fine new chapel called forth universal admiration. There, from his stall, he addressed the Society in eloquent language, giving a history of the College and its benefactors from its foundation. Foremost among these benefactors was the Ducal House of Leinster. Some members then examined the treasures of the Library, while others wandered the extensive grounds. Later they made their way to the church of Maynooth, at the College gate, where the Rev. Dr. Tristram read a short paper on the history of that edifice. Being now near two o'clock, the members betook themselves in a long stream of vehicles to Carton. The Duke of Leinster had invited the Society to luncheon, and some 200 availed themselves of it. Even the luncheon tickets displayed the well-known red saltire of the FitzGeralds.

44. Source of the River Boyne at Trinity Well, Carbury

    Carbury · townland · Kildare

    The River Boyne, celebrated for its salmon fishery and scenery at Oldcastle, Beauparc and Slane, rises at an elevation of 289 feet above sea level in the demesne of Newbury Hall near the village of Carbury, Co. Kildare. Trinity Well is pointed out as its absolute source.

    Read the passage

    The Boyne. — This river, so celebrated for its salmon fishery and tlie beautiful scenery on its banks at Oldcastle, Beauparc, and Slane, rises at an elevation of 289 feet above the sea, in tlie demesne of Newbury Hall, near the village of Carbury, county of Kildare. Trinity Well is i)ointed out as its absolute source. — Vide Ordnance Survey of Ireland ; Antiquities, County of Kildare ; Letters, Poyal Irisli Academy. — Mayo.

    The Walsh Tomb, Kildare Cathedral. — Among other interesting monuments placed inside the nave for safety are the dillerent portions of an altar-tomb, elaborately decorated with foliage work in relief, intermixed with grotesque animals. 'Ibis tomb belongs to the county Kilkenny family of the Walshes of Castle lloel (or as it is variously spelt Castle Hale, Castle Hoyle, and Castle Howel). In Wright’s “ Ireland Illustrated,” there is an engraving of the ruins of Castle Howel, which is in the barony of Kells. In the letterpress it states that this family of the Walshes became extinct in 1737.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 106

45. St. Patrick founds church at Killashee (Killuassuille)

    Killashee · townland · Kildare · 431–461

    According to the Tripartite Life, St. Patrick laid the foundations of several churches in the plain of the Liffey and left St. Auxilius in charge of the church known as Killuassuille, which took its name from him.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 15

46. Subterranean Passages at Killashee

    Killashee · townland · Kildare · 1891

    Members of the Society explored curious subterranean passages in the grounds of Killashee, cut out of sandy soil and in places so low visitors had to crawl. Rev. Denis Murphy noted that very little was known of their origin.

    Read the passage

    The Rev. Denis Murphy gave a shortdescription of the curious subterranean passages, of tlie origin of which he said very little was known. The party went down into the caves, which must be of great extent, as they sufficed to contain most of those present. They are cut out of a sandy soil, and are in some places so low that one has to crawl on one’s hands and knees. Everything was done by the proprietor to make the inspection of them convenient, the whole place being lighted up with candles, placed at intervals, and guides provided to pilot the archaeologists through the winding passages. Then the members proceeded to the church, where the Rev. Mr. Murphy read a paper, which is given in this Journal.

    6

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 7

47. Suppression of the College of St Mary at Maynooth

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1538–1770

    At the suppression of the religious houses in 1538, the College of St. Mary at Maynooth ceased to exist; the chapel was later repaired around 1770 by James, Duke of Leinster, and has since been used as the parish church.

    Read the passage

    windoiis of the cliyrclie of the seid collage, and as muclie dell of the windons of his Graces castell of Meynoth.” At the suppression of the religious houses in 1538, the College of St. Mary ceased to exist. The chapel was repaired by James, lluke of Leinster, about the year 1770, and has since been used as the parish church.

    In 1534, the l^larl of Kildare, being then Lord Deputy, was summoned by Henry VIII. to appear before him in London, to answer certain charges which had been made against him. Before he went he furnished all his castles, and especially Maynooth, with guns and ammunition out of the royal stores. At his departure, he appointed as Vice-Deputy his son, Thomas FitzGerald, Lord Otfaly, a youth who had scarcely reached his twentieth year.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 157

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now through Maynooth, in County Kildare. The College of St Mary here was swept away in 1538, when the religious houses were suppressed and it ceased to exist. The chapel stood for over two centuries until James, Duke of Leinster, repaired it around 1770, and it has served as the parish church ever since.

48. Taghadoe named for St. Tua, Ultan the Silent

    Taghadoe · townland · Kildare

    Taghadoe, meaning 'The House of St. Tua', lies two and a half miles south of Maynooth. The saint, Ultan Tua or Ultan the Silent, was connected with the monastery of Clane and, according to the Martyrology of Donegal, used to put a stone in his mouth during Lent so that he might not speak at all.

    Read the passage

    Ultan Tiia and lotharnaisc, two saints who are at Claonadh (Clane), i,e, a church which is in Ui Faelain, in Leinster. This is the Ultan Tua who used to put a stone in his mouth in the time of Lent, so that he might not speak at all.

    Father Shearman (in the note on p. 114), in his “ Loca Patriciana,” says that tliese two saints were brothers of St. Maighnen, Abbot of Kilmainham, near Dublin ; and that their father was Aed, son of Colcan, King of Oirghialla (a district in LBster), who died, according to the “Annals of the Four Masters,” in the year 606, when on a pilgrimage to Clonmacnois.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 69

49. Town walls of Castledermot built by parliamentary grant

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1295

    In 1295 a grant was made by Parliament for enclosing the town with walls; a small portion remains standing on the road to Mageney, with the wall line marked on the Ordnance Survey map.

    Read the passage

    1295 A.n. — A grant was made hy Parliament for the enclosing of the town with walls. A small portion of these walls is still standing on the road leading to Mageney. The line of the town walls is marked on the Ordnance survey map. — No. 40, County Kildare, 6-inch scale.

    In the Calendar of Documents relating to Ireland, under date 12th Edward I. (1284), we find set down the king’s rent out of the lands and tenements which belonged to Christiana de iMariscis in Ireland. One of the items is — From the burgages of Tristledermot, £4 12.s. 4A ; the burgh of Kilkea, 27s. 9 Jr/., and two geese !

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 260

50. 300 tons of bones bought from crannogs near Loughrea

    Loughrea · town · Galway

    An even larger quantity of bones, some 300 tons, was said to have been purchased by a Mr Silk of Loughrea from crannogs near that town.

    Read the passage

    When I come later on to mention some of the things that have been found in crannogs, you will be able to Judge better of the different eras through wdiich they passed. Little, if any, doubt can exist as to their having, in some instances at all events, been occupied for periods of great length. The enormous quantity of bones of animals that have been, in comparatively late years, taken from the sites of crannogs is truly astonishing. At one, in the County Eoscommon, near Mr. Toler-Aylward’s place at Strokestowm, no less than fifty tons of bones are said to have been sold for manure. But wffiat throws even this mass of bones into the shade is the quantity stated to have been bought by a Mr. Silk, of Loughrea. from crannogs near there, which amounted to no less than 300 tons !

    ^ 30,000 piles is the number estimated by one ^rriter as having been used in the formation of a single crannog.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 273

51. Clane's medieval portreeves and burgesses

    Clane · town · Kildare · 1400–1499

    From its position on the border of the Pale, Clane became a place of some importance and, like Naas, had a sort of local government; in the fifteenth century there are at least two mentions of the portreeves and commons, or burgesses, of Clane.

    Read the passage

    Up to this I liave said nothing about the village of Clane and its inhabitants. If any village existed in Celtic times it was probably wliolly dependent on the abbey, especially as the abbots were generally either tribal chiefs or their relations. AYhen, however, Strongbow’s followers took possession, the new settlers would give the village a form similar to that which prevailed in England at that date. Clane, from its position on the border of the Pale, became a place of some importance, and like Naas, and hundreds of other little towns, had a sort of local government. In the fifteenth century there are at least two mentions of the portreeves and commons, or burgesses, of Clane. These little corporations had almost without exception power to hold property and receive gifts of land. Nor are we without traces of the municipal property once belonging to the village. The territory belonging to sucli communities consisted of three parts : 1, there was the township where the heads of tlie families owned each his own house and garden ; 2, tlie arable and meadow land divided by lot among the freemen or burgesses at certain intervals, but, between harvest and seedtime, lying fallow and open to the cattle of all the community ; 3, the common or waste land used for pasture and wood-cutting, wliich was never divided.

    The history of these community properties has been the same in England and Ireland. They have long since passed into the hands of private owners. The last portion that remained corporate property were the commons, and these were in course of time appropriated by squatters, and encroached on by neighbouring land-owners, and finally enclosed by Act of Parliament.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 27

52. Description of the Castle and garden in the 1320s

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1328–1329

    The Castle at this period is described as built of stone with numerous offices, two gates - one to the town, one to the garden - and a garden extending from the Castle to the fosse and river.

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    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.

    During the rest of the fourteenth century, Maynooth was one of tlie border fortresses of the Bale, or English possessions, in the defence of wliich, Maurice, fourth Earl of Kildare, distinguished himself.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 156

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Maynooth, the castle here was built of stone with numerous offices, and had two gates, one leading to the town and one to the garden, which stretched 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. Through the rest of the fourteenth century, Maynooth was one of the border fortresses of the Pale, the English possessions, in whose defence Maurice, fourth Earl of Kildare, distinguished himself.

53. Destruction of St. Mary's Aisle at St. David's, Naas

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1860

    The Rev. Walter de Burgh, on becoming vicar in 1860, invoked the Ecclesiastical Commissioners to improve the church, which resulted in the sweeping away of the remains of St. Mary's aisle and the erection of a large pulpit and reading pew in front of the chancel arch.

    Read the passage

    In fact, a large portion of this aisle formed an integral part of the church when my predecessor, the Rev. Walter de Burgh, first came here in 1860. In an evil liour he, witli the best intentions, invoked the aid of the late Ecclesiastical Commissioners to improve the church, wliich they did, with a vengeance, sweeping away the remains of St. Mary’s aisle, wherein the prayer desk and pulpit were situated, and erecting an enormous structure of a lofty pulpit and expansive reading pew right in front of tlie chancel arch.

    The church, as existing, has some peculiarities. It is one foot wider at tlie east end than at the west end, and the east wall is remarkabl}' out of square, the south wall being about

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 10

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas in Kildare, the church of St. David's once had an aisle dedicated to St. Mary, where the prayer desk and pulpit stood. In 1860 the Reverend Walter de Burgh arrived as vicar and, with the best intentions, called in the Ecclesiastical Commissioners to improve the church. The result was what one later writer called done "with a vengeance." They swept away the remains of St. Mary's aisle entirely and put up an enormous lofty pulpit and expansive reading pew right in front of the chancel arch. The church itself has an odd shape, being one foot wider at the east end than the west, with the east wall badly out of square.

54. Duke's restoration work and memorial window at Kildare Cathedral

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    The Duke of Leinster took a warm personal interest in the restoration of Kildare Cathedral and superintended the designs for a memorial window commemorating Dr. Chaplin, a physician in the town.

    Read the passage

    and exarainiog every new acquisition with pleasure.* In the Director’s Deport for the year 1890, he gives a list of no less than fifty various examples of Art and Manufacture given by the Duke of Leinster to the Museum, comprising specimens of Wedgewood and Dresden china, foreign embroideries, and pottery, and marbles. His loans in 1891, 1892, and 1893, comprise coins, medals, embroideries, and other objects of interest, and in 1892, specimens of Italian, German, and Dutch Arts. He also took a warm and personal interest in the restoration of tlie Catliedral of Kildare, and especially superintended the designs for a memorial window to Dr. Chaplin, a j)hysician in the town.

    When the Co. Kildare Archaeological Society held its inaugural meeting at Palmerstown, in April, 1891, the Duke of Leinster occupied the Chair, and was unanimously elected President. The last meeting of the Society was held at Maynooth in Sept., 1893. f Upon that occasion, when the Members and Visitors were assembled on the now grass- grown floor of the great ruined hall of Maynooth Castle, he gave them a short account of the history and features of this stronghold and dwelling of his ancestors. He then invited the large assembly, after they had visited the College at Maynooth, to a luncheon prepared for them at Carton, where he showed them the various treasures collected for centuries in his house. Among these were the “Led Book of Kildare”; the “Book of Obits of diverse gentlemen of the Geraldys ” ; the ancient table of Gerald, ninth Earl of Kildare, from. Maynooth Castle ; the sculptured stones from Woodstock Castle, near Athy ; and the beautiful landscapes of Cuyp, which adorn the walls of the Library. This was the Duke’s last appearance in public in this country, and his guests will long remember the gracious kindliness and unobtrusive dignity of their host on that occasion.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 115

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare town, the cathedral here was restored with the close involvement of the Duke of Leinster. He took what the record calls a warm and personal interest in the work, and especially superintended the designs for a memorial window to Dr. Chaplin, a physician in the town. The Duke was also president of the County Kildare Archaeological Society from its inaugural meeting in April 1891, and his last public appearance in this country was at Maynooth in September 1893, where he spoke to the gathered members about the history of Maynooth Castle, his ancestors' stronghold.

55. Grant of market and fair at Maynooth

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1286

    Gerald, fourth Baron of Offaly, obtained a patent dated 9th May 1286 from Edward I. for holding a market at Maynooth every Friday, and a fair around the nativity of the Blessed Virgin in September.

    Read the passage

    Gerald, fourth Baron of Offaly, obtained from Edward I. a patent, dated 9th May, 1286, for holding a market at Maynooth every Friday, and a fair on the vigil, feast, and morrow of the nativity of the Blessed Virgin, 7th, 8th, and 9th of September.

    In the beginning of the fourteenth century, the Castle of Maynooth was the principal residence of the Kildare branch of the Geraldines. In 1316, John, the first Earl of Kildare, died there.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 155

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Maynooth, this town was granted its market back in 1286. Gerald, fourth Baron of Offaly, got a patent from Edward I dated the 9th of May that year, for a market every Friday and a fair on the 7th, 8th, and 9th of September. By the early 1300s, the castle here was the principal residence of the Kildare Geraldines, and John, the first Earl of Kildare, died there in 1316.

56. John FitzGerald's sculptured cross-shaft at Castledermot

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1620

    John FitzGerald of Narraghbeg, who died in 1620, was buried at Castledermot, some miles from his home, where the broken portions of an inscribed and sculptured cross-shaft erected to his memory can still be seen.

    Read the passage

    This John FitzGerald’s will is also in tlie Record Office; he was buried at Castledermot, which is miles fromNarraghheg), where tliere are the broken portions of an inscribed and scul})tured cross-shaft erected to his memory.

    Sir Maurice’s death took place on the 26th December, 1575. lie was buried in St. Bridget’s Cathedral at Kildare, and a handsome tomb was raised to his memory hy his widow, the sculpturing of which was executed hy Walter Brennagli (the Irish form of tlie name Walsh) as is recorded on the stone.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 179

57. Naas cavalry relics of 1798 exhibited

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1798

    The Earl of Mayo exhibited a Cross-belt and Badge of the Naas cavalry from 1798, alongside coins found when the stables at Palmerstown were rebuilt in 1837 and photographs of ruins in county Kildare sketched by Austin Cooper circa 1784.

    Read the passage

    The Earl of Mayo exhibited a Cross-belt and Badge of the Naas cavalry, 1798 ; also some Coins found wlien the stables at Palmerstown were being rebuilt in 1837, one being of the reign of Queen Elizabeth ; also a photograph of the restored Cross at Moone, and photographs of Sketches of Euins in county Kildiire, made by Austin Cooper, circa 1784. The Eev. Denis Murphy exhibited the original matrix of the seal of the Cistercian Abbey of St. Peter at Athlone. The Most Eev. Dr. Comerford exhibited a copy of the Loudon Gazette of August, 1689, recording, amongst other things, the delivering up of the Sword of State by the Earl of Clarendon to the Earl of Tyrconnell.

    A vote of thanks to the Vice-President and President for presiding terminated the proceedings.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 248

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas in Kildare, you are in the town whose cavalry from 1798 left behind a cross-belt and badge. The Earl of Mayo exhibited those relics of the Naas cavalry at a meeting of the County Kildare Archaeological Society. Alongside them he showed coins found when the stables at Palmerstown were rebuilt in 1837, one of them from the reign of Queen Elizabeth, and photographs of ruins across county Kildare drawn by Austin Cooper around 1784.

58. Naas garrisoned during Elizabethan wars

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1580

    Naas was garrisoned by 500 men under Lord Gormanstown in August 1580, and Lord Deputy Grey proceeded there later that month as part of ongoing military operations.

    Read the passage

    August 3, 1580. — Naas garrisoned by 500 men, under Lord Gormanstown.

    August 18, 1580. — Lord Deputy Grey proceeds to the Naas.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 132

    As the companion tells it

    The road ahead passes through Naas. In August 1580, this town was garrisoned by 500 men under Lord Gormanstown. Later that same month, Lord Deputy Grey proceeded to Naas as part of ongoing military operations.

59. Naas gates demolished in 1680

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1680

    In 1680 two of the gates of Naas, Corbin's Gate and North Gate, were pulled down, suggesting the abandonment of any pretension to maintain the town as a fortress.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 227

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Naas, in 1680 two of its gates were pulled down, Corbin's Gate and North Gate. The town had been taken many times during the rebellion that began in 1641, though there is no record of it ever having been besieged. In 1642 Ormonde spared it from burning because it was deemed capable of being fortified, but it was never actually walled. The pulling down of those gates looks as if all pretension to maintaining the town as a fortress had been abandoned. No traces of town walls of any strength have ever been found either.

60. Round tower of Castledermot attributed by tradition to Abbot Cairbre

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 919

    Tradition assigns the erection of the round tower of Castledermot to Abbot Cairbre, successor of Diarmaid, who died in 919 after a long and pious life as recorded in the Martyrology of Donegal.

    Read the passage

    It is to this Abbot Cairbre, or Carpreus, tliat tradition assigns the erection of the round tower of Castledermot.

    The round tower stands on the north side of the church, to which it is attaclied by an ancient narrow and high passage, eight feet in length. Tlie masonry (jonsists of roundish granite

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 60