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. St. Patrick ordains Isserninus and Macatalius at Kilcullen

   Kilcullen · town · Kildare · 431–461

   The Book of Armagh records that St. Patrick ordained Isserninus and Mactaleus at the little cell of Cuillinn, i.e. Kilcullen, as part of his mission establishing churches in the plain of the Liffey.

   Read the passage

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

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 15

   As the companion tells it

   You are coming through Kilcullen, a town in Kildare where the Book of Armagh records that St. Patrick ordained Isserninus and Mactaleus in what it calls "the little cell of Cuillinn." This was part of his journey through the plain of the Liffey, where he laid the foundations of several churches and set his disciples to govern them. The Tripartite Life says he left Isserninus and Macatalius here, while placing Auxilius at a church called Killuassuille. The Book of Armagh adds that Auxilius had been Patrick's exorcist as a boy, and Ussher believed he was consecrated bishop in 448. That source lists Patrick as having ordained 450 bishops in Ireland. The Annals of Inisfallen, under the year 439, state that Secundinus, Auxilius, and Isserninus were sent as bishops to help Patrick, suggesting they already held that rank. The scholar Lanigan sought to reconcile the authorities by proposing that Patrick found himself in need of episcopal helpers. Before reaching this district, Patrick had preached in North Leinster, where the sons of Dunlaing, who ruled from Naas, accepted his teaching and were baptised in a fountain near the north side of that town.

2. The Naas pound moved between Corban's Mill and the water-gate

   Naas · town · Kildare · 1665–1890

   A new pound was made of good oak timber in 1665 near Corban's Mill on Fryary-road; it was later changed to the water-gate where it remained until 1890, when a new pound was made behind the Courthouse.

   Read the passage

   In 1696, “The pound and house and garden was hard by Corban’s Mill.” I do not know when the pound was clianged from Corban’s Mill to the water-gate, where it remained until 1890. Alexander Turner held the pound in 1716. Tim Donolioe in 1769. Henry Ottwell or Ollivel in 1791. James Tracy (who lived in Mr. Holloway’s present house) in 1833. Edward O’Hanlon paid the rent for the pound in 1847. In 1890, new pound made behind Courthouse. There was also, from 1715 to 1786, and perhaps later, a pound at Killishee on Kilcullen road, in the angle between the roads to Mullacash and Kilcullen.

   The Town House or Toll House stood between entrances from New-row, Eair-green-st., and Corban’s-lane, in centre of street. Tlie Town House was probably used as a market house in 1670, for at tliat time the weights and measures were kept in a shop outside the west gate near the top of New-row. In 1702 a presentment by grand jury for its removal was traversed by the town. Its rent in 1743 was £2 lO-s-. ; in 1783, £4 5s. It was held by Moore in 1774, then by Mary Dojde. It was “ taken down for Kilcullen turnpike ” (7 e. for benefit of Kilcullen road) in 1787. In 1770 there was a turnpike near Alder grove, Oldtown demesne ; and in 1836 one at the Jigginstown Kennels.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 236

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Naas, the old town pound moved between two spots over the centuries. In 1696 it stood hard by Corban's Mill, as the record puts it, and later it was shifted to the water-gate, where it stayed until 1890, when a new pound was built behind the Courthouse. A string of men held the pound over the years. Alexander Turner had it in 1716, Tim Donohoe in 1769, Henry Ottwell in 1791. James Tracy held it in 1833, and Edward O'Hanlon paid the rent for it in 1847. There was also a pound at Killishee on the Kilcullen road from 1715 to 1786, set in the angle between the roads to Mullacash and Kilcullen, and perhaps later still.

3. The White Castle museum display at Athy

   Athy · town · Kildare · 1892

   At The White Castle in the centre of Athy, a collection of local antiquities was exhibited including defunct Corporation Records and the ancient Corporation Seal lent by the Duke of Leinster.

   Read the passage

   On the arrival of the special train with a contingent of over fifty strong, a move was made for the adjacent ruin of St. Michael’s Church, where the Dev. J. Carroll discoursed on the liistory of this 14th-century ruin, after which the Society — some on foot and some in carriages — wended their way to The White Castle in the centre of the town. Here a most interesting collection of antiquities of local interest were exposed to view in a room of the castle. By the kind permission of the Chairman of the Town Commissioners some of the now defunct Corporation Decords were exhibited, along with the ancient Coiq^oration Seal kindly lent by the Duke of Leinster.

   A most excellent Paper by Bishop Comerford was here read, and after the party had thoroughly inspected the Museum, and wandered over the rambling interior of the castle, they proceeded to St. John’s, a few yards distant, which Mr. T. J. Hannon had kindly undertaken to describe. Here the proceedings were rendered somewhat uncomfortable by a downpour of rain, wliich continued until the members reached Woodstock, a short mile from ikthy.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 46

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Athy, the White Castle stands in the centre of the town. In 1892 the Kildare Archaeological Society arrived here by special train, over 50 members strong, and found a collection of local antiquities on display in a room of the castle. The defunct Corporation Records were exhibited by permission of the Chairman of the Town Commissioners, and the ancient Corporation Seal was lent by the Duke of Leinster. Bishop Comerford read a paper while the party inspected the museum and wandered through the rambling interior of the castle. From there they moved on to St. John's, a few yards away, where T. J. Hannon described the site before rain drove the members onward to Woodstock, a short mile from Athy.

4. Franciscan Convents Established at Clane, Kildare and Castledermot

   Clane · town · Kildare · 1500–1560

   The Franciscan order, of which Fr. John Colgan was a member, had convents at Clane, Kildare, and Castledermot as well as several other places in the county, part of about sixty convents in Ireland by the mid-16th century.

   Read the passage

   Whosoever wishes to know in greater detail the life of this Saint will find it in the great work of Fr. John Colgan. He was of the Franciscan order, the same which had convents at Clane, Kildare, Castledermot, and in several other places of this county, as well as in nearly every other county in Ireland, numbering in all about sixty in the middle of the 16th century. This great man, not being able, for reasons which I need not enter into here, to find at home the education which he needed, went in search of it to Spain. The greater part of his life was passed in the Franciscan College of Louvain, founded in 1609 by the generosity of Philip iii., and the Archdukes Albert and Isabella. There from 1626 to 1658, the year of his death, he devoted himself to bringing together and illustrating the Live^ of Irish saints. He intended his work to extend over six

   170 “ ST. BRIGID OF KILDARE.”

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 123

5. Ancient Ecclesiastical Bell of Castledermot preserved at Kilkea Castle

   Castledermot · town · Kildare

   Lord Walter FitzGerald exhibited the ancient ecclesiastical bell of Castledermot, which was preserved at Kilkea Castle. This links a medieval church relic to its place of origin and later custody.

   Read the passage

   Lord Walter Fitz Herald exliihited the ancient Ecclesiastical Bell of Castledermot, preserved at Kilkea Castle ; an Encaustic Tile from Bective Abbey, county Meath, bearing the Fitz- G-erald Coat-of-Arms, dating about 1500 ; a Celtic Bronze Brooch found at Castledermot in 1863, now at Kilkea ; and a Bronze soeketted Celt found near Castledermot in 1894.

   Mr. G. Mansfield exhibited a small illuminated Prayer-book on vellum with rubricated letters, date circa 1490, formerly in the possession of William Latton, Fellow of Wadham College, Oxford.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 250

6. 1418 Dower assignment naming Melone's Grange lands

   Grangemellon · townland · Kildare · 1418

   An early record of Grangemellon appears in an assignment of Dower granted to Anastasia, wife of Sir David Wogan of Rathcoffey, dated 24th February 1418. It lists 160 acres of land, meadow, bog, part of a weir, a rabbit warren, and a stone house at the site.

   Read the passage

   In Melone’s Grange 160 acres of land on the west side of that town ; also 6| acres of meadow, on the west side of that meadow ; also 1 acre of hog there, on the west side of that bog ; also a third part of the weir there ; also a third part of the rabbit warren there ; also a third part of the stone house there on the south side ; also three messuages and a third of a messuage on the west side.

   * From “ Gransha” = “ Grange,” a place for grain. “ Mullawn” = “ Millen,” a mill. — (Irish Local Xames, by F. AY. Joyce, ll.d.) “Alullan,” or “ Mullaun,” means a little summit, which might allude to the old tumulus mentioned. In this case the name would mean the “place of grain,” or “ Farm House of the little Hill.”

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 72

7. Armagh burned along with its round tower and bells

   near Armagh · town · Armagh · 1020

   In 1020 Armagh was burned along with its Cloicteach and its bells, according to the Irish Annals.

   Read the passage

   948 The Cloictheacli of Slaine was burned by the foreigners (7 e. the Danes), witli its full of relics and distinguished persons, together with Caeineachair, Lector of Slaine, and the Crozierofthe Patron Saint, and a bell which was the best of bells. lO'iO Armagh was burned; and the Cloictheacli, witli its bells.

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

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 57

8. Austin Cooper's 1781 sketch of the ruined Dominican Abbey

   Naas · town · Kildare · 1781

   Austin Cooper described the ruins of the Dominican Abbey founded by the Eustaces, noting a small square steeple on an arch and adjoining ruinous sidewalls, with a high mount between the abbey and the town, and a grove called Knock nearby.

   Read the passage

   ‘‘ Tlie town of Naas is small and old-looking, having some ancient castles therein and some old houses built in that style. On the north are the ruins of the Dominican Abbey founded by the Eustaces. Of it remains a small square steeple on an arch, and adjoining on the north side are the sidewalls of what part I cannot say, but a more ruinous pile I have never yet seen. Between this and the town is a very high mount, a few fields north of which is a grove in which, I was told, stood another called Knock.” (The Knocks.)

   1540, April 20. — Lease to Thomas Allen of site of Monastery of the Order of Preachers, by the Mote of Nase, with its appurtenances. Thirty-one years, £6 9s.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 232

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Naas, you are following a road Austin Cooper travelled in 1781. He found the town small and old-looking, with ancient castles and houses built in that old style. On the north side stood the ruins of the Dominican Abbey, founded by the Eustaces. All that remained was a small square steeple on an arch, with adjoining sidewalls of some part he could not identify. He wrote,

9. Burial of Captain Garret Aylmer of Donadea at Christchurch

   Donadea · townland · Kildare · 1663

   Captain Garret Aylmer, son and heir of Sir Andrew Aylmer of Donadea in County Kildare, died on 21 December 1663 and was interred with funeral solemnities at Christchurch on Saint Stephen's Day, as recorded in the official Funeral Entries.

   Read the passage

   “ Captain Garni Aylmer, son and beir of Sir Andrew Aylmer of Donadee, in the county of Kildare, Esq. ; he married Jane daughter and heir of PhiUip FitzGan’et, of Allen in the same county, and hath issue by her a son named FitzGerald Aylmer, and a daughter named Elizabeth ; the aforesaid Captain Garrit Aylmer departed this mortal Kfe the 21st day of December last past, and was interred at Christchurch with funeral solemnities on Saint Stephen’s day following.

   “The truth of the premisses is testified by the Right 'Worshipful sir Andrew Aylmer, Baronet, father of the defunct, who has hereunto subscribed his hand.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 284

10. Confiscation of Dollardstown

    Dollardstown · townland · Meath · 1641

    James Aylmer of Dollardstown was outlawed for his part in the 1641 rebellion, and the property was confiscated, never returning to Aylmer hands.

    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

11. Corporation of Naas disposes of common lands by lease

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1671–1832

    Towards the close of the 17th century the Corporation of Naas made efforts to dispose of common lands by lease, valuing them in 1677 to fund the 1671 Charter and church repairs. Rents were often nominal or paid in kind, such as capons, hens, and usquebagh, and by 1728 rents were so low that sovereigns preferred to forgo arrears rather than prosecute.

    Read the passage

    1695 — £3 and a bottle of usquebagh at Xmas.

    1691 — 6 pair of pigeons.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 241

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, this was a town where the Corporation leased out common lands from the late 1600s. Rents were often paid in kind rather than cash. In 1695 one lease cost £3 and a bottle of usquebagh at Christmas. In 1691, another brought six pairs of pigeons.

12. Death of the first Earl of Kildare at Maynooth

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1316

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

    Read the passage

    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.

    1 Read by bis Grace the Duke of Leinster, September, 1893.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 155

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming through Maynooth. In the early fourteenth century, Maynooth Castle was the principal residence of the Kildare branch of the Geraldines. In 1316, John, the first Earl of Kildare, died there.

13. Dunchadh Slain at Battle of Knockaulin Near Kilcullen

    Kilcullen · town · Kildare · 722

    Dunchadh was slain at the battle of Knockaulin, near Kilcullen, in 722, and from him the tribe-name of Ui Dunchadha was taken.

    Read the passage

    slain at the battle of Knockaulin, Kilcullen, in 722 ; from him the tribeof “ Ui Dunchadha” was taken, ng of Leinster, died 771.

    Muireadhai) 1

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kilcullen, this is the country where Dunchad was slain at the battle of Knockaulin in 722. From him the tribe of Ui Dunchadha took its name.

14. Effigy left exposed to weather at Timolin

    Timolin · townland · Kildare · 1891

    Unlike many effigies buried, walled up, or hidden under pews elsewhere, the Timolin effigy remained beneath a pavement and has survived exposure to the climate. A hope is expressed that it might be rescued from its 'melancholy surroundings' and moved to a place of greater security for study.

    Read the passage

    Fortunately for stiuhmts of arnionr the effigy at Timolin has not been buried, and remained beneath a pavement, walledup out of sight, or hidden under })ews. xVnd fortunately for antiquaries its details have withstood the onslaughts of a treacherous climate, while it is surely a matter of good omen that in consequence of the formation of the County Kildare Archceological Society attention has been so soon called to a military tigure in the county of so remarkable a character. Finally, a stranger may venture to express a hope that, as in the case of the Northamptonshire Forester, the effigy of the Kildare knight may be rescued from its melancholy surroundings, and removed to a place of greater security, where its valuable details will be alike protected from the weather and available for study.

    ( 135 )

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 100

15. Excursion to ruins of the Franciscan Abbey, Castledermot

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1894

    During the 1894 Excursion Meeting, members assembled in the ruins of the Franciscan Abbey at Castledermot to hear a paper tracing its history from remote ages, delivered by Dr. Comerford. Ivy had been specially removed from the abbey ruins in preparation for the visit.

    Read the passage

    On the arrival of the train at Mageney, the company betook themselves to the vehicles which were provided by the Society for tlie conveyance of tlie Members to the various places to be visited during the day, and under the conductorship of Lord Walter FitzGerald, who, with Mr. Arthur Vicars, Ulster, had charge of the arrangements for the day, a long procession of vehicles started for Castledermot, three and a-half miles distant, where the forces of the Society were augmented by others who had driven from contiguous parts of the county. All assembled in the ruins of the Franciscan Abbey to hear a Paper of deep research read by the Vice-President of the Society, Most Pev. Dr. Comerford, who traced the history of the old abbey down from remote ages.

    The next move was for the Church, where Lord Walter FitzGerald gave a short dissertation on the Pound Tower attached to the church, on which subject he had already written a Paper in the Journal.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 252

16. Kilberry Castle ruins with archway of small flat stones

    Kilberry · town · Kildare · 1695–1820

    Kilberry Castle's remaining east wall is nearly 60 yards long and reaches nearly 50 feet high, capped with ivy, with a large archway built of small flat stones similar to Churchtown. The rent history and population of Kilberry parish are also recorded.

    Read the passage

    The present ruins, though covering a somewhat extensKe ares , may be briefly described: — 1. Kilberry Castle — a long east wall, nearly 60 yards long, of irregular height, in one place reaching nearly to 50 feet high, and capped with ivy. Towards the middle of the w^all is a large archwajG built of small fiat stones, similar to those seen at Churchtown and many of the ruins in the country around. The archway is filled with masonry of apparentl}^ the same style as the castle. 2. Some hundreds of yards away, isolated in a large field, are the ruins of Castle Eeedy. The name, no doubt, is from the famil}^ of Le Kede, Avho held the place in the fourteenth century. These ruins are in a totally disrupted state, only two walls remain standing — one of these at an unsafe angle sustained by the friendly-embracing ivy. Huge blocks of grouted masonry lie scattered around tumbled doAvn and about from their upright position — one of wliich is perforated by a staircase. Some twenty-two years ago tlie foundations were dug under in a search for money. It is said that fear made the searchers desist; and they filled up again their excavations, but in doing so they buried some beautifully cut stones.

    Of the ancient Abbey scarcely any part remains standing.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 84

17. Maurice FitzGerald buried in Kildare Cathedral

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1637

    Maurice FitzGerald died on 13th November 1637 at Ballyfeaghan and was buried in the Cathedral Church of Kildare.

    Read the passage

    Maurice died on the 13th November, 1637, at Ballyfeaghan, and was buried in the Cathedral Church of Kildare, at which time James his successor was twenty-six years of age. His wife was Ellen, the youngest daughter of James Butler, 11th Baron of Dunboyne.

    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.*

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, this is where Maurice FitzGerald was laid to rest. He died on the 13th of November 1637 at Ballyfeaghan and was buried in the Cathedral Church of Kildare. At that time his successor James was twenty-six years of age. Maurice's wife was Ellen, the youngest daughter of James Butler, 11th Baron of Dunboyne. James FitzGerald took part in the rebellion of 1641, and on the 23rd of October that year he was indicted for high treason and his property confiscated to the Crown. The rebellion broke out first 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 great degree by the growing power of the Puritans, whose aim was the suppression of the Roman Catholic religion. The old Anglo-Irish families joined their co-religionists in the struggle for liberty, and if internal dissensions and jealousies had not later caused a split in the Confederate ranks the result might not have been so disastrous to Ireland.

18. Maynooth chapel made a prebend of St Patrick's

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1248

    In 1248 the chapel of Maynooth, probably attached to the Castle, was erected by Luke, Archbishop of Dublin, into a prebend of the cathedral of St. Patrick, at the request of Maurice, second Baron of Offaly.

    Read the passage

    In 1248, the chapel of Maynooth, which was probably attached to the Castle, was erected by Luke, Archbishop of Dublin, into a prebend of the cathedral of St. Patrick, at the request of Maurice, second Baron of Offaly, to whom the church belonged. §

    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.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 155

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Maynooth now, this town has an old ecclesiastical history. In 1248, the chapel here, probably attached to the castle, was made a prebend of St Patrick's Cathedral by Luke, Archbishop of Dublin, at the request of Maurice, second Baron of Offaly, who owned the church. Later, in 1286, Gerald, fourth Baron of Offaly, obtained a patent from Edward I to hold a market here every Friday, and a fair on the 7th, 8th, and 9th of September.

19. Naas granted a charter and corporation status

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1414

    By 1414, Naas had a charter and was a Corporation; the Patent Roll of Henry V records the Portreeve, Burgesses, and commonalty being granted tolls for twenty years for walling and fortifying the town.

    Read the passage

    1414. — It appears that Naas had a charter and was a Corporation, for in the Patent Roll 2, Henry V., the Portreeve, Burgesses and a commonalty of the town are granted tolls for twenty years of all things coming into the town for sale, for the purpose of walling and fortifying the town.

    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.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 129

20. Parliament held at Castledermot in 1276

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1276

    A Parliament is said to have been held at Castledermot in 1276.

    Read the passage

    1276 A.n. — A Parliament is said to have been held here.

    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.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 260

21. Plundering and burning of Disert Diarmada in 1405

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1405

    MacMurrogh waged war with the English, during which Contae Reagh (Wexford), Carlow, and Disert Diarmada were plundered and burned.

    Read the passage

    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.”

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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 261

22. Recovery of Shaft Fragment of the Celtic Cross at Moone

    Moone · townland · Kildare · 1893

    The Council proposed a grant for the reintroduction of a recently discovered portion of the intermediate shaft of the Celtic Cross at Moone, described as unique and remarkable for its beauty.

    Read the passage

    here mention that they propose this session to make a few small grants in this direction — one for the introduction of a recently discovered portion of tlie intermediate shaft of the fine Celtic Cross at Moone, which is unique and remarkable for its beauty.

    You will he asked to reconsider E-ule YII., as to the number of Ordinary Meetings of the Society, and the advisability of holding one Ordinary Meeting for the reading of Papers, and one Excursion Meeting.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here stands the Celtic Cross at Moone. In 1893, the County Kildare Archaeological Society proposed a small grant for the reintroduction of a recently discovered portion of the cross's intermediate shaft. They called the piece unique and remarkable for its beauty.

23. Removal of the Council House ruins and building of St Patrick's College

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1780

    The remains of the Council House at Maynooth were removed about 1780, and a dwelling was erected on the site which later became the centre of the College of St. Patrick facing the town; the old doorway became the entrance to the Protestant school-house.

    Read the passage

    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,

    * Ware’s “Annals.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 163

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Maynooth, the town hides a vanished building. Around 1780, the remains of the Council House were cleared, and a dwelling was built on the site, which became the centre of St Patrick's College, facing the town. The old doorway of the Council House survives as the entrance to the Protestant school-house.

24. Ruin and quarrying of Moone Abbey after the Dissolution

    Moone · townland · Kildare

    After the Dissolution the abbey at Moone gradually decayed and was demolished over time, its walls being used as a convenient quarry up until fifty years before the writing of this account.

    Read the passage

    After the Dissolution the active, useful life of the monasteries ended. Since then the abbey has gradually decayed and been demolished by the hand of time and of man, and (up to fifty years ago) its walls were used as a convenient quarry.

    The land round the abbey was rich, and yielded to the monks and their lay brethren an abundant store of all that was required for their support, and some to spare. At last, in the words of the poet : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 208

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here are the remains of an abbey that fell into ruin after the Dissolution. Its active life ended then, and time and human hands gradually demolished it. Its walls served as a convenient quarry, drawn on for stone up until about fifty years before this account was written. The land round the abbey was rich, yielding the monks and their lay brethren an abundant store of all they needed, with some to spare.

25. Society's inaugural meeting at Palmerstown, 1891

    Palmerstown · townland · Kildare · 1891

    The County Kildare Archaeological Society held its inaugural meeting at Palmerstown in April 1891, where the Duke of Leinster occupied the Chair and was unanimously elected President.

    Read the passage

    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.

    On the 1 1th of November it became known that he was suffering from typhoid fever, and on the last day of the montli his state was hopeless. Pie died, surrounded by his family, at Carton, at six o’clock on Friday morning, December 1st.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 115

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Palmerstown, the County Kildare Archaeological Society held its inaugural meeting in April 1891. The Duke of Leinster took the chair and was unanimously elected President. Two years later, in September 1893, the Society's last meeting under his presidency was held at Maynooth, where members and visitors gathered on the grass-grown floor of the great ruined hall of Maynooth Castle. There the Duke gave a short account of the history and features of this stronghold and dwelling of his ancestors, then invited the assembly to a luncheon at Carton, his house, where he showed them treasures collected for centuries. 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, sculptured stones from Woodstock Castle near Athy, and landscapes by Cuyp on the library walls. This was the Duke's last public appearance in this country. He died of typhoid fever at Carton at six o'clock on Friday morning, December 1st, 1893.

26. St. Michael's Church ruin discussed at Athy excursion

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1300–1399

    The Society visited the ruin of St. Michael's Church adjoining Athy railway station, where Rev. J. Carroll discoursed on the history of this 14th-century ruin.

    Read the passage

    On the arrival of the special train with a contingent of over fifty strong, a move was made for the adjacent ruin of St. Michael’s Church, where the Dev. J. Carroll discoursed on the liistory of this 14th-century ruin, after which the Society — some on foot and some in carriages — wended their way to The White Castle in the centre of the town. Here a most interesting collection of antiquities of local interest were exposed to view in a room of the castle. By the kind permission of the Chairman of the Town Commissioners some of the now defunct Corporation Decords were exhibited, along with the ancient Coiq^oration Seal kindly lent by the Duke of Leinster.

    A most excellent Paper by Bishop Comerford was here read, and after the party had thoroughly inspected the Museum, and wandered over the rambling interior of the castle, they proceeded to St. John’s, a few yards distant, which Mr. T. J. Hannon had kindly undertaken to describe. Here the proceedings were rendered somewhat uncomfortable by a downpour of rain, wliich continued until the members reached Woodstock, a short mile from ikthy.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 46

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Athy, near the railway station, there stands the ruin of St. Michael's Church, a 14th-century structure. The Kildare Archaeological Society once arrived here by special train with over 50 members, gathering at the ruin where Rev. J. Carroll discoursed on its history. From there, some on foot and some in carriages, they made their way to the White Castle in the centre of the town, where antiquities of local interest were displayed. Corporation records and the ancient Corporation Seal, lent by the Duke of Leinster, were exhibited. A paper by Bishop Comerford was read, and the party inspected the castle interior before proceeding to St. John's, described by Mr. T. J. Hannon. Rain cut that part short, continuing until the members reached Woodstock, a short mile from Athy.

27. Surrender of the Franciscan Friars Minors in 1541

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1541

    In April 1541 the Friars Minors of the Franciscan house at Castledermot surrendered on the same occasion as the Friars of the Hospital of St. John.

    Read the passage

    In April, 1541, the Friars Minors of this House surrendered (as the phrase goes) on the same occasion as did the Friars of the Hospital of St. John.

    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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 264

28. The Economy Estate of Clane and its narrow strip-fields

    Clane · town · Kildare

    The Economy Estate, a small property vested in the vicar and churchwardens of Clane, consists of scattered narrow strips of land near the village, remnants of the old common arable land once divided by lot among the burgesses. Similar Economy Estates existed at Lusk, Swords, Balrothery and Finglas.

    Read the passage

    Tin's account of the community lands of Clane gives a clue to the 07-igin of what is called the Economj Estate, a small property vested in the vicar and churchwardens. It consists of a number of small parcels of land, scattered here and there in the vicinity of the village, and these mostly present the peculiarity of which I have spoken — of being long strips of ground, so narrow that in some cases they are only marked off from the adjacent property by boundary stones. From their lying within the townland of Clane, we may conclude that they were at one time part of the arable and meadow land which used to be periodically divided among the burgesses for cultivation. The most probable account of their appropriation to the vicar and churchwardens is that when the arable and meadow land ceased to be held a community property, the vicar and churchwardens, wlio, as official parts of the community, had formerly received allotments for paroehial purposes, obtained these lots in perpetuit}", not for their individual use, but for parish expenses. This view is confirmed by the fact that in the parish hooks, at the beginning of this century, it was still the custom at the vestry to let these lands by public auction to the highest bidder, but only to parishio)iers.

    Clane is not the only place in which there is an estate of the kind. There are similar Economy Estates at Lusk, Swords, Balrothery, and Finglas; and I am informed that W'hen the late Bishop of Down, the lamented President of the Irish Academy, was Eector of Lusk, he endeavoured in vain to trace the history of these properties. From inquiries that I have made, it appears that the circumstances of these properties are so identical with those of the Clane Economy Estate, that we

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 28

29. The large rath at Moone as tribal stronghold

    Moone · townland · Kildare

    The large rath at Moone is identified as the probable stronghold of the tribe of the sons of Laighis who were cursed by St. Patrick.

    Read the passage

    The large rath at Moone was probably the stronghold of this tribe.

    The next reference we have to Moone is in time of St. Columbkill. This illustrious saint, unlike St. Patrick, was a pure Celt by birth and education, and was never out of these islands. He was born a.d. 521 at Gartan, a wild district of Lonegal, where an ancient oratory still marks the place of his birth. By his fathers he was related to the Nials, kings of Ulster, and by his mother to the Cormacs, kings of Leinster, and finally he died first Abbot of Iona, a.d. 597.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 204

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is a large rath at Moone, probably the stronghold of the tribe of the sons of Laighis, the people St. Patrick cursed. The next mention of Moone comes from the time of St. Columkill. He was born in 521 at Gartan in Donegal, related by his father to the Nials, kings of Ulster, and by his mother to the Cormacs, kings of Leinster. He died in 597 as the first Abbot of Iona.

30. The moat and Sunday well behind Clane mill

    Clane · town · Kildare

    Behind the mill at Clane there is a large moat or tumulus covered with trees, close to which lies a Sunday well; a legend is attached to the tumulus and the nearby stone basin, though the author refers readers elsewhere for it.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 25

31. Undated tombstone of John O'Hara at Taghadoe

    Taghadoe · townland · Kildare

    A small headstone with misworded, badly-spelled inscription praying for the soul of John O'Hara is built into the base of the Taghadoe round tower. The author notes that no neighbouring headstones bear that surname, which properly belongs to Connaught, leaving his identity a mystery.

    Read the passage

    Gloria in exeelsus Deo pray for the Soul of John oHara May the Sis of fathful the the marcy God Rest N. pace. Amen

    Such is the peculiar wording (or rather miswording) on this insignificant-looking little tombstone ; we are left in the dark as

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 71

32. White Castle in Naas demolished about 1786

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1756–1786

    White Castle, also called the Old Castle or White Chambre in Naas, later became part of the Town-hall. It was held by Magee from 1756 to 1775, with rooms let out in 1771, before being demolished about 1786.

    Read the passage

    White Castle, or the Old Castle, or White Chambre, is now part of the Town-hall. I liave a plan of it dated 1786. Its frontage extended from a spot about 14 feet from corner of Mrs. Masterson’s shop for 62 feet along Main-street. Its depth was 30 feet, besides back premises and walled garden. Magee held it from 1756 to 1775. In 1771 rooms were let in it to different persons at 30s. per annum. It was demolished about 1786.

    Magee’s Castle is mentioned in 1803, so it could not have been tlie same as White Castle, which, though held by Magee at one time, was demolished in 1786. In 1803, it was held by I^aurence Ilealy, previously by Owen Whelan ; in 1816 by Michael Meade, baker. I cannot fix its site, but believe it to have been between White Castle and Black Castle.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 228

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, there once stood White Castle, also known as the Old Castle or White Chambre, along Main-street. Magee held it from 1756 to 1775, and in 1771 he let rooms in it to different persons at 30 shillings a year. Its frontage ran for 62 feet along Main-street with a depth of 30 feet, besides back premises and a walled garden. It was demolished about 1786, and later became part of the Town-hall.

33. Woodstock Castle ruins described as imposing historic remains

    Woodstock Castle · castle · Kildare · 1253

    Woodstock Castle, one of the most imposing and historic ruins in South Kildare, was probably erected about 1253 around the time of the founding of St. John's Abbey, and was an appendage to the Palatinate of Dunamase granted to the Earl of Pembroke.

    Read the passage

    Woodstock Castle is amongst the most imposing and historic ruins in South Kildare. According to the Antholoyia Hibernica, this castle was probably erected about 1253, the time of the foundation of St. John’s Abbey by Richard de St. Michael, the Lord of Rheban. The name is English. It was an appendage to the Palatinate of Dunamaes, in the Queen’s County, and was granted to the Earl of Pembroke. Some writers say it was the

    104

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    Right beside you here are the ruins of Woodstock Castle, one of the most imposing in South Kildare. It was probably erected around 1253, the time of the founding of St. John's Abbey by Richard de St. Michael, Lord of Rheban. The name is English. It was an appendage to the Palatinate of Dunamase in the Queen's County, granted to the Earl of Pembroke.

34. Restoration of the Celtic Cross of Moone

    Moone · townland · Kildare · 1893–1894

    Thanks were given to Mr. Frederick M. Carroll for the trouble and expense he took in the admirable restoration of the Celtic Cross of Moone, situated in his grounds, with assistance from Lord Walter FitzGerald including lending machinery for the difficult undertaking.

    Read the passage

    “ That the thanks of the Society are due and are hereby tendered to Mr. Frederick M. Carroll for the trouble he has taken in connection with the admirable restoration (at considerable expense to himself, over and above the Society’s grant) of the Celtic Cross of Moone, situated in his grounds, and to Lord Walter FitzGerald for his assistance in the same direction, and in kindly lending much of the necessary machinery for carrying out so difficult an undertaking.”

    COUNTY KILDARE ARCHEOLOGICAL SOCIETY. 347

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Moone stands a Celtic Cross that was restored between 1893 and 1894. The County Kildare Archaeological Society thanked Mr Frederick M Carroll for the trouble and expense he took in what they called the admirable restoration of the cross, which stood in his own grounds. Lord Walter FitzGerald helped too, lending much of the machinery needed for what the Society called so difficult an undertaking.

35. Aylmer monument removed and re-erected at Donadea church

    Donadea · townland · Kildare · 1812

    The elaborate altar-tomb monument of the Aylmer family, featuring kneeling figures and standing saints, was removed from the old church at Donadea and re-erected in November 1812 by Sir Fenton Aylmer within the Protestant church chancel.

    Read the passage

    This Monument was Removed from the old Church Nov^r 1812 by Sir Fenton Aylmer, Bart

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 219

36. Castle Dermot Linked to the O'Tooles

    Castledermot · town · Kildare

    Margaret Stokes notes that Castle Dermot is said to have belonged to the O'Tooles, suggesting a native Irish origin for the site before Norman enlargement.

    Read the passage

    How many' of the castles here enumerated were on the sites of fortresses of native Irish chieftains I have not yet been able to discover. Castle Dermot is said to have belonged to the O’Tooles, and others may have been enlarged and restored after falling into the hands of their Norman conquerors, but one thing is certain about these buildings, that the distinctive national character which marks the ecclesiastical architecture of Ireland, and which is still traceable in her mediaeval abbeys, also distinguishes her militaiy architecture, that is the combination of the domestic dwelling-house with the fortress. In the high ]ntched, stone-roofed churches of Ireland the domestic apart-

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 168

37. Celtic Bronze Brooch found at Castledermot in 1863

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1863

    A Celtic bronze brooch found at Castledermot in 1863 was exhibited at the meeting, having been kept at Kilkea Castle. This documents an archaeological find associated with the town.

    Read the passage

    Lord Walter Fitz Herald exliihited the ancient Ecclesiastical Bell of Castledermot, preserved at Kilkea Castle ; an Encaustic Tile from Bective Abbey, county Meath, bearing the Fitz- G-erald Coat-of-Arms, dating about 1500 ; a Celtic Bronze Brooch found at Castledermot in 1863, now at Kilkea ; and a Bronze soeketted Celt found near Castledermot in 1894.

    Mr. G. Mansfield exhibited a small illuminated Prayer-book on vellum with rubricated letters, date circa 1490, formerly in the possession of William Latton, Fellow of Wadham College, Oxford.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 250

38. Colonel Weldon's military bridge across the Barrow

    Grangemellon · townland · Kildare

    A military bridge built across the Barrow by Colonel Weldon in a few hours was noted, though too recent to be considered archaeologically significant.

    Read the passage

    In accordance with tlie programme, some sixty of the members nnd tlieir friends, with commendable archaeological zeal, continued their journey on to Grrangemellon, on the other side of Athy, a description of which was given by Mr. Antliony Weldon. A passing notice can only be given of the wonderful military bridge built across the Barrow by Colonel Weldon in a few hours, as it is scarcely old enough as yet to come v/ithin the scope of archaeological stud3\ The members and tlieir friends were received at Kilmoroney hy Sir Anthony and Lady AVeldon, who had offered tea to the whole partjg which kind hospitality w^as veiy welcome after the exertions of the day. Sir Anthonj" Weldon exhibited some of his family treasures, including a fine old octagon silver jug, friezed in panel, and a pair of small tankards — old Nuremburg work — presented to Captain William Weldon b}^ the Irish Parliament in 1631 ; also a watch that belonged to Charles I., and which came to the Weldon famil}" from Bishop Juxon.

    The close of the day brought this most successful and pleasant excursion to an end, and dusk had already set in when the carriages started on their way back to Athy. With the exception of a sliower in the morning, the w^eather on the whole was all that could be desired. The elaborate arrangements in the train and carriage service made by the Executive for the conv’eyance of members and their friends to the various objects of interest worked well, and the time-table was adhered to throughout with praiseworthj^ punctualiH — a most difficult matter in archaeological excursions.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 47

39. Death of the Earl of Kildare at Maynooth Castle, 1612

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1610–1612

    After the Countess Mabel died in August 1610, her nephew the Earl came into possession of Maynooth Castle, where he died in February 1612.

    Read the passage

    In August, 1610, the Countess Mabel died, and her nephew the Earl came into possession of Maynooth Castle, where he died in February, 1612.

    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.§

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 163

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Maynooth. In August 1610 the Countess Mabel died, and her nephew the Earl came into possession of Maynooth Castle, where he died in February 1612.

40. Disert Diarmada plundered by foreigners of the Narrow-Water

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 841

    In 841 Disert Diarmada (Castledermot) was plundered by the Foreigners of Cael-Uisce, the Narrow Water in Co. Down, according to the Annals.

    Read the passage

    The age of Christ 841. The Plundering of Disert Diarmada hy the Foreigners of Cael-Uisce (7. e. “ the Narrow-Water,” in the Co. Down).

    And the other : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 60

41. Eustace Castle on Friary-road preserves vaulted room

    Naas · town · Kildare

    Eustace Castle stands on Friary-road in Naas at the corner of the horse-fair, occupied in the author's time by a contractor. Its vaulted ground-floor room is well preserved along with the room above it, and the walls are of great thickness.

    Read the passage

    Eustace Castle is on Friary-road, at corner of horse-fair, and is now occupied by Mr. Hyland, contractor. The vaulted groundfloor room, very like the dining-room at St. David’s Vicarage, and probably built about same time, is well preserved, also the room above it. The walls are of great thickness. A horse-mill is mentioned as having been part of the Castle premises.

    Motley’s Castle stood on or at back of tlie present site of Dr. Carter’s Medical Hall. (See Lyard’s Castle.)

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 228

    As the companion tells it

    Naas has a castle of the Eustace family on Friary-road, at the corner of the old horse-fair. The vaulted ground-floor room is well preserved, along with the room above it, and the walls are of great thickness. A horse-mill once formed part of the castle premises. In the author's time a contractor named Mr. Hyland occupied the building.

42. Human remains found at Dunshaughlin crannog

    Dunshaughlin · town · Meath

    Unlike most crannogs where animal bones are common but human remains rare, two human bones were discovered at the Dunshaughlin crannog, a notable exception noted by the author alongside a similar find in County Roscommon.

    Read the passage

    It is, I think, a little strange that while the bones of animals and birds have been found in quantities in crannogs, those of human beings have not been discovered, with a very few exceptions— one or two in the county of Eoscommon, and two at Dunshaughlin.

    Sir W. Wilde also refers to the absence of stone implements, and the scarcity of articles of bronze, but this is no longer true ; both stone and bronze articles have been found in plenty in our crannogs.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 276

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Dunshaughlin in County Meath, where a crannog yielded something most crannogs do not. Animal and bird bones turn up in quantities in these lake dwellings, but human remains are rare. At Dunshaughlin, two human bones were found, a notable exception matched only by one or two similar finds in County Roscommon. Sir W. Wilde also noted the absence of stone implements and the scarcity of bronze articles in crannogs, though the writer says both have since turned up in plenty.

43. James FitzGerald buried in predecessors' tomb at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1670

    James FitzGerald died in 1670, having made his will requesting burial in his predecessors' tomb at Kildare, which was carried out according to his wish.

    Read the passage

    James FitzGerald, in accordance with the wish expressed in his will, was buried in his “ predecessors’ tomb at Kildare.”

    In a MS. volume in the Record Office, Dublin, called ‘‘ The Book of General Orders” (marked which extends from the year 1654 to 1655, there are a few orders in reference to a murder of two Government soldiers at Lackagh and its consequence, which, as far as I know, have never been printed in full, but which are alluded to by Prendergast in his “Cromwellian Settlement of Ireland” at p. 168. These orders are all (except one) initialled T. H. C. C., standing for Thomas Herbert, Clerk of the Council, by whom they were entered. The first of the orders in reference to Lackagh is given on p. 260. It, and those which follow it, are in tliese words : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 184

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, this is where James FitzGerald was laid to rest in 1670. He had made his will asking to be buried in what the record calls his "predecessors' tomb at Kildare," and that wish was carried out.

44. Jean Hay's gravestone epitaph, no longer present

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1707

    Ledwich recorded an epitaph on a gravestone, no longer present at Castledermot, commemorating Jean Hay, who died 4 January 1706-7, describing her piety and hope in God.

    Read the passage

    “ Here lies Jean Hay, who, night and day.

    Was honest, good, and just ;

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 265

45. McCabe's Tree marked near Innfield Station on 1752 map, Dunfierth townland

    Dunfierth · townland · Kildare · 1752

    An 18th-century map by Noble and Keenan (1752) marks a spot called 'McCabe's Tree' about a mile south of Johnstown village near Innfield Station, apparently within the townland of Dunfierth. The story behind the name and place is unknown.

    Read the passage

    McCabe’s Tree. — On IS’oble and Keenan’s map of the Co. Kildare (1752), about a mile to the south of Johnstown village, near Innfield Station, is a spot marked by a tree, and “McCabe’s Tree” written beside it. It stood, as far as I can judge, by the roadside, in the townland of Dunfierth. Can anyone tell its story ? — Waltek FitzGerald.

    ( 209 )

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 146

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Dunfierth, a map from 1752 by Noble and Keenan marks a single tree with the words "McCabe's Tree" written beside it. It stood by the roadside, about a mile south of Johnstown village, near Innfield Station. Who McCabe was, or why the tree mattered enough to be put on a map, nobody has recorded.

46. Meaning of Kildrought/Celbridge placename

    Celbridge · town · Kildare

    The text explains that Kildrought means 'the Church of the Bridge', and that in its distorted modern form it is called Celbridge, with the first part mispronounced and the latter translated.

    Read the passage

    t Kildrought means the Church of the Bridge ; in its present distorted form it is called Celbridge, the first part of the ohl name being mispronounced, and the latter part translated. {Vide Joyce’s “ Irish Names of Places.”)

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 181

47. Parliament at Naas under Earl of Kildare, 1457

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1457

    In 1457, a Parliament was held at Naas by Thomas FitzMaurice, Earl of Kildare, acting as Deputy.

    Read the passage

    1457. — Parliament at Naas held by Thomas FitzMaurice^ ]']arl of Kildare, Deputy.

    1465. — An Act was passed directing —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 130

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, this town was the setting for a Parliament in 1457. Thomas FitzMaurice, Earl of Kildare, held the Parliament there, acting as Deputy. Beyond that, the record tells us nothing more about the gathering.

48. Punchestown standing stone measured at nearly twenty feet

    Punchestown · townland · Kildare

    The long stone or dallaun at Punchestown is recorded as 19½ feet in height and 11 feet in girth, made of a single block of granite despite being far from any granite district, like the other Kildare standing stones listed.

    Read the passage

    ,, Punchestown, 19^ ft. in height and 11 ft. in girth.

    Kote. — These long stones are all more or less upright; they are also each of a single block of granite, and everyone of them some miles distant from a granite district.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 283

49. Round Tower at Oughterard proposed for National Monument status

    Oughterard · townland · Kildare · 1894

    A committee was appointed to determine which monuments should be placed under the Board of Works, with the Round Tower at Oughterard specifically recommended to Sir Thomas Deane as suitable to be made a National Monument.

    Read the passage

    “That a Committee be appointed, consisting of Lord Walter FitzGerald, Rev. Denis iMnrphy, and Mr. T. De Bnrgh, to ascertain what monuments in the County and District of the Society it is advisable should be placed under the charge of the Board of Works, pursuant to the Ancient Monuments’ Preservation Act (Ireland), and that the Committee he given full power to communicate with the Board of "Works on the subject in accordance with their invitation. That the Round Tower at Oughterard he especially brought to the notice of Sir Thomas Deane as to the advisability of making it a National Monument.”

    It was decided that the Excursion Meeting for the ensuing Session of the Society should take place at Castledermot and district early in September.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 248

50. Abbey of Disert Diarmada plundered

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1040

    The Abbey at Disert Diarmada was plundered in 1040 AD according to the Tr. Thaum. records.

    Read the passage

    1040 A.D. — The Abbey was plundered in this year. — “ Tr. Thaum.”

    1042 A.D. — McGrath, son of Gorman MacFrassy, lord of Ui-Bairrche, and his wife were slain here by the Ui Baillain. —Id.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 259

51. Abbots of Disert Diarmada recorded in annals

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 919–1073

    A succession of abbots of Disert Diarmada (Castledermot) are recorded as dying between 919 and 1073 AD, including St. Carpreus, Mulcallen, Aireachteach, Guairc, Colman, Muiregan, and Cobhtach.

    Read the passage

    919 A.D. — St. Carpreus, son of Feradach . . . Abbot of Disert Diarmada, and anchorite and head of religion among the Lagenians, venerable by years and merits, died. — “ Colgan, A. SS.” 1, 137.

    921 A.i). — The Abbot Mulcallen, died. — Id.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 259

52. Abbots of Killashee named in the Annals

    Killashee · townland · Kildare · 827–870

    The Annals of the Four Masters name two Abbots of Killashee: Maol Dobharchon, who died in 827, and Lomseach, son of Faoillen, who died in 870, evidencing the monastery's continued religious importance.

    Read the passage

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

    From the will of Cathaoir Mor, monarch of Ireland in the second century, it is clear that there were several families of the Ui Bairche seated at Cloncurry, Kilossy, and Gill. They must have migrated there from their original territory, Slieve Mairgie, in the Queen’s County.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 17

53. Aylmer coat of arms on stone built into Lyons churchyard wall

    Lyons · townland · Kildare · 1318

    An Aylmer memorial stone bearing the Tyrrell coat of arms is built into the churchyard wall at Lyons, suggesting the Aylmers may have acquired Lyons through marriage to a Tyrrell heiress, the family who had held the property since at least 1318.

    Read the passage

    If this were so, the appearance of the Tyrrell Coat of Arms on the Aylmer stone, which is built into the Lyons churchyard wall {vide p. 299 of the Jouenal), would he more or less accounted for.

    (2). In Burke’s “Peerage,” under the heading of the Aylmers of Donadea, the 3rd Baronet is given as Sir Gerald Aylmer.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 284

54. Description and demolition of Moone Abbey church buildings

    Moone · townland · Kildare

    The long narrow abbey church at Moone had a square belfry which fell about eighty years before writing, while the Lady's Chapel and north wall were pulled down about sixty years earlier, with materials reused to build an adjoining farmyard.

    Read the passage

    le belfry fell some eighty years ago; and the “Lady’s Chapel” and north wall of church were pulled down about sixty years ago, and the materials used for building a farmyard adjoining.

    St. Colnmbkill’s well is a few perches from the abbey, on the low ground at back of farmyard, and liere patrons were formerly held.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 209

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here was a long narrow abbey church with a square belfry that fell about 80 years before it was written about. The Lady's Chapel and north wall were pulled down about 60 years earlier, and the materials used for building a farmyard adjoining.

55. Franciscan monastery of Moone repaired, 1609

    Moone · townland · Kildare · 1598–1609

    The Franciscan monastery of Moone, which had probably suffered during the Hugh O'Neill rebellion of 1598, was repaired in 1609.

    Read the passage

    1609 A.D. — “The Franciscan monastery of Moone was repaired.”

    It had probably suffered during rebellion of Hugh O’Neill, 1598.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 207

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Moone, a Franciscan monastery was repaired in 1609. It had probably suffered during the Hugh O'Neill rebellion of 1598.

56. Rathmore moat misidentified as a rath despite its name

    Rathmore · townland · Kildare

    Although its name implies a great rath, the mound at Rathmore, east of Naas, is actually a huge flat-topped sepulchral moat rather than a rath with ramparts, illustrating common confusion between the two monument types.

    Read the passage

    Note. — It is a remarkable circumstance that almost invariably a Christian burial-ground is to be found within a few perch of a tumulus. It is at times difficult to distinguish a rath from a moat ; but a moat never has a rampart at the top, though one often circumvents the base, whereas the rath has one, two, or more ramparts. In some instances, a moat is misnamed a rath, and vice versa ; for example, the Moat of Ardscull, near Athy, is a rath ; and Rathmore (to the east of Kaas) is not “ a great rath,” as the name implies, but a huge flattopped sepulchral moat.

    (2) , Long Stones or Dallauns.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 283

57. Round Tower at Castledermot church

    Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1894

    Lord Walter FitzGerald gave a dissertation on the Round Tower attached to the church at Castledermot during the excursion, a subject on which he had already published a paper in the Society's Journal.

    Read the passage

    The next move was for the Church, where Lord Walter FitzGerald gave a short dissertation on the Pound Tower attached to the church, on which subject he had already written a Paper in the Journal.

    The chief interest in the churchyard however, was centred in tlie Old Celtic Cross, which had been restored by a former Duke of Leinster.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 252

58. Ruined castle remains at Rathasker near Naas

    Rathasker · townland · Kildare · 1782

    Antiquary Austin Cooper recorded in 1782 that southwest of Naas there stood on a hill, surrounded with trees, the remains of a castle called Rathasker, or properly Rath Esker.

    Read the passage

    Castle of RatJiasker. — Austin Cooper states that, in 1782, he was told that S.W. of Naas there stood on a hill, surrounded with trees, the remains of a castle called Dathasker, or, he supposes, properly Hath Esker.

    The JSort/i Moat. — The “ Tripartite Life ” informs us that a large conical artificial mound stood in St. Patrick’s time on west of street (opposite the church). The dun, or fort, is stated to have been named Lys Luighdech, after its builder Luighdech Eithlenn, a king of the Tuatha de Danaan. It was burned by Cormac Mac Art about 270 a.d.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 229

59. Surrender and grant of Athy Dominican Priory, 1541

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1541–1546

    The Friars Preachers of Athy surrendered their priory in 1541; it was later granted with extensive lands to Martin Pelles, including acreage near the Barrow, in Athy, Ardreigh, and Tulloghnorre.

    Read the passage

    In 1541, the Friars Preachers of Athy surrendered their priory. It was granted, with the appurtenances thereunto belonging five years subsequently, to Martin Pelles, and also 6 acres in le More, near the Barrow ; 12 acres and half a stang of land, and one acre of pasture of the great measure in Athy aforesaid; 11 acres of arable, 1 of pasture, and half a stang of pasture, 1 acre whereof isdieath, in the town and fields of Ardreigh ; half an acre of pasture called the Island, on the Barrow, and two fishing- weirs on said river ; 1 messuage, half an acre of arable, and 1 water-mill at Tulloghnorre ; 1 acre of arable land, 2 of meadow, and 4 of pasture, great measure, in Mollensgrange ; to be held in capite^ for ever, at the annual rent of 2.S. Sd. Irish currency. An inquisition, taken the Thursday after the feast of St. Nicholas, Bishop, 34th year of Henry VIII., finds that the Prior, on the 30th of April, 31st of that King, was seized of a church and belfry, chapter-house, dormitory, hall, three chambers and a kitchen, a cemetery, garden and orchard, containing I acre ; also 6 cottages, 16 acres of arable of great

    68

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 54

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Athy, a town whose Dominican priory was caught in the great wave of monastic dissolution. In 1541, the Friars Preachers here surrendered their priory. Five years later, in 1546, it was granted to Martin Pelles, along with extensive lands. The priory itself had been substantial. An inquisition in the 34th year of Henry the Eighth found that the Prior, as of the 30th of April in the 31st year of that King, possessed a church and belfry, a chapter-house, dormitory, hall, three chambers, a kitchen, a cemetery, a garden and an orchard, along with six cottages and sixteen acres of arable land. The grant to Pelles stretched across several townlands. It included six acres near the Barrow, twelve acres and more in Athy itself, eleven acres of arable at Ardreigh, and a house and a water-mill at Tulloghnorre. It even took in half an acre of pasture called the Island on the Barrow and two fishing weirs on that river. All of it was held at an annual rent of two shillings and sixpence Irish currency.

60. Death of Abbot Colum-ua-Flanagan of Moone, 1015

    Moone · townland · Kildare · 1014–1015

    The Annals of the Four Masters record the death of Colum-ua-Flanagan, Abbot of Moin Cholum Cille (Moone).

    Read the passage

    1014 A.D. [rede 1015, O’Donovan). — Colum-ua-Flanagan, Abbot of Moin Cholum Cille (Moone), died.

    1040 A.D. — Moin Cholum Cille (Moone), Disert-Diarmada (Castledermot), Mugna-Moshanoc (Dunmanogue), Cluain- More-Maidhog (Clonmore, Co. Carlow) were plundered by Diarinaid, son of Mael-na-mbo, Lord of Hy-Censellagh (a native district comprising Co. Wexford and part of Co. Carlow), and he carried otf many prisoners from the oratories.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk01coun, Chapter 206

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Moone, an abbot named Colum-ua-Flanagan died in 1015. He was abbot of Moin Cholum Cille, the old name for this place. The Annals of the Four Masters record his death and little else about him.