Name: Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (vol. 2)
Author: County Kildare :County Kildare Archaeological Society

Gerald, 11th Earl of Kildare, restored and sells Castletown manor to Sutton

Celbridge · town · Kildare · 1554–1574

In 1554 Queen Mary restored the forfeited titles and estates to Gerald, the 11th Earl of Kildare, who later sold the Manor of Castletown Kildrought to his servant Gerald Sutton.

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In 1587 a letter was written by Queen Elizabeth to the Lord Deputy, directing the restoration of the Manor of Kildrought to Thomas FitzGerald of Lackagh 2 (son of Sir Maurice FitzGerald, Knt., deceased in 1575), who claimed “as lawful heir thereunto, had not the Earl of Kildare, Gerald FitzGerald, then Deputy of Ireland, who died in the Tower of London (on the 12th December, 1584), wrongfully disseised his grandfather (i.e., Thomas FitzGerald of Lackagh, who died on the 14th August, 1583), and Lord Thomas FitzGerald, son of the Earl, having been attainted of treason, their possessions came to the Crown, and so remained until restitution of the Earldom was made (in 1554) to the father (Gerald, the 11th Earl) of the present Earl (Henry, the 12th Earl), who sold the Manor to Garrett Sutton. The latter dying (in 1574) left it to David Sutton, his son, which David, in the time of Lord Grey (Lord Deputy of Ireland), was attainted of treason (having in 1580 joined in Ballinglass’s rebellion), whereby the premises again came into the possession of Her Majesty. Dated 14th August, 1586. ”3
In the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries a portion of the lands and tenements of the Manor of Kildrought were known as “ Sir Maurice fitzThomas his ffarme,”4 after that member of the Lackagh family.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 255

Iron implements and skeletons unearthed at Barrowford brickfields

Barrowford · townland · Kildare · 1895

In May 1895, iron implements were dug up while excavating brick-beds at the Athy Brick Company works in Maher's meadow, Barrowford, one mile north of Athy. Many skeletons were also unearthed and reburied during the works.

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About tlie month of May, 1895, the Iron Implements, figured on the opposite page, were dug up while excavating the brick-beds in connexion with the works of the Athy Brick Company. The field they were found in is called “ Maher’s meadow,” in the townland of Barrowford, and one mile north of Athy. Besides the implements many skeletons were unearthed and reburied. These iron implements were, with the permission of the owner, Mr. Telford, of Athy, exhibited at the January meeting in Naas, in 1896.
On page 38, vol. i., of the Journal, the Lattin Alms-house Inscribed

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 184

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in May 1895, iron implements were dug up while excavating brick-beds at the Athy Brick Company works. The field they were found in is called Maher's meadow, one mile north of Athy. Besides the implements, many skeletons were unearthed and reburied during the works. The iron implements were later exhibited, with the permission of the owner, Mr. Telford of Athy, at the January meeting in Naas in 1896.

Isserninus, Bishop of Kilcullen, studied at Auxerre

Kilcullen · town · Kildare

Isserninus (Bishop Fith) of Kilcullen studied alongside St. Patrick and others at the school of Germanus in Auxerre, later playing a role in Irish ecclesiastical history.

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Germanus, where a remarkable group of men met in their youth, and played no small part afterwards in the ecclesiastical history of Ireland. This school at Auxerre was that of SS. Patrick, Secundinus, Auxilius, and the Bishop of Kilcullen, Isserninus, or Fith, as he was called in Ireland ; and when at Auxerre they appear to have met with St. Brioc,1 Michomer, and Lupus of Troyes.
St. Brioc is said to have been a native of Kerry, whose mother was converted from paganism to Christianity by the apparition of an angel, who prophesied the birth of her son Brioc, and directed that the boy should be sent to Auxerre to a blessed man named G-ermanus, Bishop of the same city, who would educate him in liberal discipline, and inform him in good morals and a holy life.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 294

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kilcullen in Kildare, you're in the town of a bishop the Irish called Fith, though the books name him Isserninus. He studied at the school of Germanus, Bishop of Auxerre, where a remarkable group of young men gathered and went on to shape the ecclesiastical history of Ireland. Among his fellow students were Patrick himself, Secundinus, and Auxilius. They also met St. Brioc at Auxerre, said to have been a native of Kerry. Brioc's mother was converted from paganism to Christianity by the apparition of an angel, who prophesied her son's birth and directed that the boy be sent to Auxerre to be educated by Germanus in liberal discipline, good morals, and a holy life.

Lees family of Thomastown and the Clonaugh cross moved to Johnstown Bridge

Thomastown · townland · Kildare · 1845–1852

A family of Lees, said to be descendants of the Interpreter, lived at Thomastown between Clonaugh and Johnstown Bridge; a member of this family reportedly moved a cross and sculptured stones from Clonaugh to Johnstown Bridge before the family emigrated to America around the time of the famine.

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A family of Lees, who were said to be descendants of the Interpreter, lived at Thomastown, half-way between Clonaugh and Johnstown Bridge. I have heard it stated that it was a member of this family who brought from Clonaugh to Johnstown Bridge the cross and sculptured stones to which reference has been made in my former Paper. This family emigrated to America about the time of the famine.
In conclusion, I would say that if any member of the Kildare Archaeological Society should be gifted with a taste for writing romance in either prose or verse, there is ample groundwork for the same in the history of the troubled times we are considering. There is fierce and abundant tragedy pourtrayed in the ruin of so many of the old and respected families of Ireland ; and for comedy there is the tombstone of the Interpreter, with his patent invention for consigning his afflicted widow to a life of celibacy — an invention which turned out to be a wretched and laughable failure.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 247

Levelling of the small square rath near Ardscull by Christy Hickey

Ardscull · townland · Kildare

A small square rath half a mile south-west of the Moat of Ardscull was levelled by Christy Hickey for top-dressing his holding some years before; local tradition held that a lump of buried money lay under a thorn bush there but no one dared dig for it.

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to him or his have resulted. It was formerly covered with thorn hushes ; under one in particular on the south side of the rath it was rumoured that a big lump of money was buried, but no one would dare dig for it. However, a few years ago a big wind blew down the bush, and Christy then attacked the place with a fack ; but after digging to a depth of three feet he failed to find the treasure, and so desisted. When levelling the rampart he came across a large number of animal bones and teeth, a horse’s and a cow’s skull, as well as a sort of iron bill-hook, about a foot in length, with teeth, and a socket for the insertion of the handle. In the north-eastern corner of the rampart he came across an unflagged chamber, full of black barley and ashes, of which he drew away twenty-seven cartloads, and used it as manure. Just outside this find, in the trench, in one place was a very soft dry spot, down which his shovel went as if through water ; the length of the shovel and his arm did not reach the bottom. He did not examine it further.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun

New Bridge over the Liffey, built 1308

New Bridge · bridge · Kildare · 1308

On the way from St. Wolstan's to Leixlip, the Society crossed the oldest bridge in this part of Ireland, still called New Bridge, though it was built in 1308 by John Decer, Mayor of Dublin.

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The Society then proceeded through the demesne to the other gate-lodge, where the carriages were in waiting to take them on to Leixlip. On the way the river Liffey was crossed by the oldest bridge in this part of Ireland, still called New Bridge , although built in 1308 by John Decer, Mayor of Dublin, and the curious cone-shaped tower, with external circular staircase, built by the Conolly family in 1743, was sighted from the road.
On arrival at Leixlip the celebrated Salmon Leap was inspected. Owing to the recent rains the volume of water passing over the rocks heightened the effect.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 152

As the companion tells it

You are right on New Bridge over the Liffey, the oldest bridge in this part of Ireland. It still carries the name New Bridge, though it was built in 1308 by John Decer, Mayor of Dublin. From the road here, you can also sight a curious cone-shaped tower with an external circular staircase, built by the Conolly family in 1743. Just beyond lies Leixlip, where the celebrated Salmon Leap was inspected, its effect heightened by recent rains.

Parthalonians said to have died of plague at Tallaght

near Tallaght · town · Dublin

According to Irish legendary history, the last of Parthalon's followers, after 300 years' rule in Ireland, are said to have died of the plague at Tamlecht Parthalon, identified as Tallaght near Dublin.

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Now, according to Irish legendary history, the first invaders of Ireland came, as the Phoenicians might have come, from the Levant. Parthalon and his followers came from Greece. The last of their race, after 300 years’ rule in Ireland, are said to have died of the plague at Tamlecht Parthalon, which is Tallaght, near Dublin. Next came, we are told, the Nemedians, from Scythia. Then the Fomorians, from Northern Africa. These were ousted by the northern invaders, the Firbolgs, who, in their turn, gave place to the Tuatha de Danaan. Then came the Milesians or Scots.
Whatever we may choose to believe of those ancient legends, we have little or nothing else to work on, and we cannot afford to ignore them contemptuously when we find them so often corroborated.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 221

Philip Sherlock of Little Lath buried at Bodenstown

Bodenstown · townland · Kildare · 1662

Philip Sherlock, stepbrother of Sir John Sherlock, married a daughter of Sir John Eustace of Harristown, had his property sequestered as a Papist, was restored in 1662 by the Court of Claims, and was buried at Bodenstown.

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We have already mentioned that the Sherlocks were located at Little Lath, in the county Kildare, in the year 1556. In 1646, Sir John Sherlock, knight of Little Lath, was, like many of his relatives, an officer in the service of King Charles I., and was governor of Naas under Lord Ormond. In his will, dated 1652, he gives a vivid picture of the discords and unhappiness of the times he lived in. He says — “In regard to the trouble of these times, and the general devastation of this county, my whole estate is likely, in all probability, to be of small benefit to me or to my wife, during our natural lives, and it hath pleased God (the wise disposer of all things) to bereave of my children and posterity of my own lovns; and those that are my brothers by my father (a second mother) are utterly incapable to inherit, in respect of their wicked adhering to the Irish, in the horrid rebellion of this nation.” Sir John Sherlock was buried at St. Michan’s, Dublin. His stepbrother Philip, who married Elizabeth, daughter of the Light Honourable Sir John Eustace, knight, of Harristown, had his property sequestered as a Papist, and was among the few proprietors who were restored in 1662 by the Court of Claims. He was buried at Bodenstown. Several of his sons followed the fortunes of King James II., and among them Christopher, the eldest, who forfeited Little Lath, Derry, and Bodenstown in 1706, which townlands were bought back by Lichard Sherlock, and united with Sherlockstown in 1741.
So that the representation of both branches of the Kildare Sherlocks now devolves on the present proprietor of Sherlockstown. The Sherlocks of Laban, King’s County, are lineal descendants of the Little Lath family.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 39

Ruaidhri taken prisoner in the stone church of Kilcullen

Kilcullen · town · Kildare · 1037

In 1037, Ruaidhri, son of Tadhg Ua Lorcain, Tanist of Ui Cennsealaigh, was taken prisoner in the stone church of Kilcullen by Donnchadh MacGillapatrick.

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a.d. 1037. Ruaidhri, son of Tadhg Ua Lorcain, Tanist of Ui Cennsealaigh, was taken prisoner in the stone church of Kilcullen by Donnchadh MacGillapatrick.
a.d. 1114. Cill-Chuilinn was burned white this year.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 298

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kilcullen, the town holds a story from 1037. Ruaidhri, son of Tadhg Ua Lorcain, Tanist of Ui Cennsealaigh, was taken prisoner in the stone church here by Donnchadh MacGillapatrick. The same place was burned white in 1114.

Ruin of the old mansion at Little Rath

Little Rath · townland · Kildare · 1717–1723

During Hester Sherlock's period of occupation of the disputed estate, the old mansion and offices fell into ruin, situated in the level fields between the present house of Little Rath and Blackhall.

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and, moreover, pulled down various improvements that lie had made. In fact, her period of occupation ended in the ruin of the old mansion and offices, which stood in the level fields between the present house of Little Rath and Blackball. Annesley was now in a sad case. He had appealed to the English Lords ; but Hester Sherlock took no notice of their orders, and there was no authority able or willing to enforce them. To add to his distress, his deeds were in possession of the Irish Peers, who would not give them up. National feeling ran so high against him that he had to leave the country, for fear of arrest, and no Irish lawyer dared to take up his case. But, as Hester had foreseen, the contest was an unequal one, and though it was bravely fought, the final issue was bound to go against her. It is to be hoped that while fortune favoured her she was able to secure the substance of what she struggled for, and could thus with some equanimity receive the fatal decree by which the English Lords allowed the appeal made by Annesley, and ordered possession to be restored to him.
Such in brief is the story of the great constitutional struggle between the Peers of Ireland and the Peers of England.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 305

Sir William Talbot builds house at Carton

Carton House · site · Kildare · 1600–1633

Gerald, the 14th Earl of Kildare, granted a lease of Carton to Sir William Talbot, who built a house there forming the nucleus of the present mansion; Talbot died in March 1633 and was buried in the Church of Maynooth.

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1 Gerald, the 14th Earl of Kildare, about the beginning of the seventeenth century, granted a lease of Carton to Sir William Talbot, son of Robert, third son of Sir Thomas Talbot of Malahide, Bart., by whom a house was built at Carton, which is the nucleus of the present mansion. The Funeral Entry (copied from vol. vi, p. 29) given below deals with this Sir William
“ Sr. William Talbott of Cartoune, in the County of Kildare, Baronet, deceased the xvi. of March, 1633 ; he had to wife, Alsou, daughter of John Netterviell of Casteltoune, in the County of Meath, Esquire, by whom he left issue, Sir Robert Talbott, Baronet, and hath to wife, Grace, daughter of ye right Hoble S1' George Calvert, K‘ Lord Calvert, Baron of Baltimore ; John Talbott, Garret Talbott, who had to wife, Margaret, daughter of Henry Gaidon of Dublin, Gent. ; James Talbott, Thomas Talbott, Peter Talbott, Gilbert Talbott, Richard Talbott (afterwards created Duke of Tyrconnell) ; Mary, maried to Sir John Dongan, Baronet ; Briget, maried to John Gaidon of Irishtowne, in the County of Kildare, Esquire ; Margaret, married to Henry Talbot of Templeoge, in the County of Dublin, Esquire ; Frances, Elizabeth, Jane, Katherine, and Eleanor.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 258

Speaker William Conolly's Monument in the Conolly Vault

Celbridge · town · Kildare

In the Conolly vault at the old church ruins near Oakly Park is a large and handsome marble monument of Right Hon. William Conolly, Speaker of the Irish House of Commons, and his wife, with a long Latin inscription and beautiful iron grill-work in front.

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Close to Oakly Park, in an enclosed graveyard, stand the ruins of the old church burnt in the year 1798. Part of these ruins have been roofed in to make burial-places for the Maunsell and Conolly families. In the Conolly vault is to be found a large and handsome marble monument of the Bight Hon. William Conolly, Speaker of the Irish House of Commons, and his wife. It represents the Speaker reclining in his robes, and his wife bending over him. There is on it a long Latin inscription, stating that it was erected to his memory by Catherine Conyngham his wife. And in front of it is a beautiful piece of iron grill- work. An effort was made some years ago to have it removed from its present position, and placed in the parish church. But nothing came of it. I have reason to believe that the present owner of Castletown is anxious that this statue of his ancestor — so influential, so patriotic, and so good an
1 There is some dispute about the house in which this Academy was held. I was led to believe that it was in Ivildrought House, next the Court H< >use. But the Rev. 1VI . Hogan, a former Roman Catholic curate in Celbridge, informs me that it is also said to have been held in a house in the village which has a date over it, or in a house lower down in the village which stands in a place known as the Brewery Yard. Father Hogan, who has very kindly placed his notes at my disposal for the purpose of this Paper, states that in a book entitled u A Short View of the History of the Christian Church from its first Establishment to the Present Century,” by Rev. Joseph Reeve, published in 1809, he found a list of subscribers to the book,, many of whom gave as their address “ Celbridge Academy.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 138

St. Laurence baptized in St. Bridget's church, Kildare

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1127

The saint was baptized in the church of St. Bridget at Kildare, an act believed to reflect special reverence for the great saint associated with that place.

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Our saint was born in 1127, very probably at Garbh Tameach. He was the youngest of eight children, seven sons and one daughter. This daughter, named Mor, married Dermot McMurrough, king of Leinster. He was baptized in the church of St. Bridget, at Kildare, ne doubt through special reverence for that great saint. When he was ten years old he was given as a hostage to Dermot, who, having wrested Ply
A place unidentified.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 106

As the companion tells it

Coming up near Kildare now. In 1127 a saint was born, likely at Garbh Tameach, the youngest of eight children. His sister Mor married Dermot McMurrough, king of Leinster. He was baptized in the church of St. Bridget at Kildare, as the record says, through special reverence for that great saint. When he was ten years old he was given as a hostage to Dermot.

The Moat of Ardscull as ancient rath overlooking Athy

Ardscull · townland · Kildare

The Moat of Ardscull stands on high ground rising 140 feet above and three miles northeast of Athy; though called a Moat, it is in fact a rath or fort. O'Donovan explained the name as meaning 'the Hill of Shouts.'

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“ Ardscull = Aid and Sool, meaning ‘ the Hill of Shouts/ It is mentioned in the Book of Lecan as the site of a battle between the Leinstermen and the Munstermen in the reign of Felimy Beachtmar (i.e. ‘the Law-maker,’ King of Ireland from a.d. Ill to 119).”
The Moat (as it will be called in future) rises to a height of 55 feet above the ground level, and is artificial. It consists of a steep high central mound, with a rampart round the top, and an opening on the west side (which may he of modern make), while a trench inside a rampart encircles the base. The Moat is now covered with trees, which were planted early in this century. The public road from Athy to Fontstown and Skerries runs round about two-thirds of its base. It lay in the district of Omurethi, belonging to the O’Toole sept ; and though it must from its strength have been a stronghold of great importance, yet, strange to say, the name is not mentioned in “ The Annals of the Four Masters,” nor does it appear in ail} of the old Irish histories until after the coming of the Normans into Ireland in the latter end of the twelfth century.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 125

Trinity Well as Source of the River Boyne

Trinity Well · well · Limerick

From the summit of Carbury hill, one can see the infant Boyne emerging from Trinity Well, a site associated with a legend recounted in Sir William Wilde's book on the Boyne and Blackwater.

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If we ascend to the summit of the hill, wdiich rises 471 feet above the sea, we shall be repaid by the prospect of a landscape replete with historical associations. O11 the south we see the infant Boyne as it emerges from Trinity Well, for the legend of which I must refer you to Sir William Wilde’s book on “ The Boyne and the Blackwater.” Beyond it is an immense stretch of bog, once covered with forests, the name of which alone survives in the Fews ( fidh, being the Irish for woods). This tract was considered one of the strong passes of Ireland, and was called the “ door” of the English Pale.
88

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 67

White linen scarves adopted at Conolly's funeral

Celbridge · town · Kildare · 1729

At William Conolly's funeral, tradition holds that the custom of wearing white linen scarves was first adopted, done deliberately to encourage the Irish linen manufacture.

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His wife was Catherine, eldest daughter of Sir Albert Conyngham, a Williamite general of Ordnance in Ireland, ancestor of the present Marquess Conyngham of Slane Castle, in the Co. Meath. At his funeral, it is said, the custom of wearing white linen scarves was first adopted, in order to encourage the Irish Linen Manufacture.2
His wife, who survived him for twenty-three years, erected a magnificent monument over his vault in the old churchyard of Kildrought, which is situated at the southern end of the town of Celbridge, and is locally known as “ the Tea-lane churchyard.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 259

Oakly Park Built by Archbishop Price with Common Architect as Castletown House

Celbridge · town · Kildare · 1725

Archbishop Price probably built the house now known as Oakly Park around 1725, the same time as Castletown House was built, and tradition states the two houses had a common architect.

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Archbishop Price probably built the house now known as Oakly Park, about the same time that Castletown House was built, that is, in the year 1725, and tradition states that the two houses had a common architect. When promoted to the Bishopric of Meath he seems to have lived at Oakly Park, and from thence to have superintended the building of an episcopal residence for the Diocese of Meath at Ardbraccan, pursuant to the designs of his predecessor in the see, Bishop Evans. He did not complete Ardbraccan House, for before it was finished he was translated to the Archbishopric of Cashel. On which event the author of some ms. notes to an edition of Ware’s Antiquities , in the Library of Trinity College, makes the following sarcastic remark : — “ It had been much to be wished that he had never quitted Meath, and then the house at Ardbraccan would have been completed, and the noble and venerable Cathedral of Cashel would have escaped his destructive hand.” The reference in the latter sentence is to the fact that, when Archbishop of Cashel, he procured an Act of Council to remove the Cathedral from the llock of Cashel into the town, uniting the same with St. John’s Parish. “By which means,” adds the writer 1 have just quoted, “that noble and venerable pile has gone to ruins.” However, no man is without his redeeming

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 137

1896 planting of oak tree on traditional site at Kildare Cathedral reopening

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1896

A young oak tree from Kilkea was planted on the traditional site of St. Brigid's oak by three Archbishops (Canterbury, Armagh, and Dublin) on the day of the reopening of Kildare Cathedral, 22nd September 1896.

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1 A young oak tree from Kilkea, was planted on the traditional site, by the Archbishop of Canterbury (Dr. Benson), the Archbishop of Armagh (Dr. Alexander), and the Archbishop of Dublin (Lord Plunket), on the day of the re-opening of the Cathedral, 22nd September, 1896.
Kildare Cathedral from the North-east.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 160

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare, this is where the cathedral reopened on 22 September 1896. Three Archbishops, Canterbury, Armagh, and Dublin, planted a young oak tree from Kilkea on the traditional site of St. Brigid's oak that same day.

Baldwinstown Castle and its Montgomery, Keating and Sherlock owners

Baldwinstown · townland · Wexford

The manor and castle of Baldwinstown in County Wexford was possibly built by a cadet of the house of Montgomery, later fell to a junior branch of the Keatings of Kilcowan, and is now held by the Swan family. The castle keep is about 30 feet square with walls 13 feet thick at the base.

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We now return to the Wexford branch of the family, which we have already seen seated at Baldwinstown, in the county Wexford, in the reign of King John, and from time to time we find, in the State Papers, glimpses of its history. It is not quite clear how the Sherlocks came into possession of Baldwinstown Castle, as there seems reason to believe that it was built by a cadet of the great house of Montgomery, who settled in Ireland. That family possessed a castle bearing the same name in Wales, and it was their chief seat. One of the Montgomerys received the cognomen of Le Gogh (the redhaired) from the Welsh, and his descendants have kept it as a surname. This castle and manor of Baldwinstown at one time fell into the hands of a junior branch of the house of Keating of Kilcowan, and it is now held by the Swan family. The castle itself has a keep about 30 feet square, with walls 13 feet thick at the base.
But to return to our State Papers ; we find in the Patent and Close Polls of Henry VIII. (28th, 29th, and 30th year), a grant of the offices of Treasurer, Beceiver- General, and Bailiff of the lordship of Wexford to James Sherlock, gentleman. This James Sherlock, in 1539, presented a survey of that county to Secretary “ Crum well,” for the use of the Government, and in a letter he shows that the King’s revenue

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 31

Bequest to a nurse of Lucan in Alen's will

near Lucan · town · Dublin · 1558

The will of William Alen of Castletown mentions a woman named 'manys Smythe of Lucan' who nursed his son Symone Alen, and to whom he bequeathed an in-calf cow and heifer.

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neese his doghter Anne Alen an incalfe cowe. Item. I wyll that Anne Artor, that noryshyth3 my sonn crystofer Alen ... an incalfe cowe, the ecreese of the same to be reservyd from tyme to tyme as she calveth to my sayd sonn crystofer. Item. I bequeth manys Smythe of Lucan, that norysheth my sonn Symone Alen an incalfe cowe and a heyfer, the increase of them reserved to my sayd sonn Symone as before of thother. Item. I bequeth to davy browne that norysheth my sonn mathewe Alen an incalfe cowe, the increase therof lykewyse reserved to my sayd sonn mathewe. Item. I gyve to belle4 new ell a sowe. Also I gyve the vicare of Kyldroght thre shyllyngs that he owthe me. And to olde Joharolde a peake of whete that he owthe me. And a fryese cote furder I bequeth to my base sonn Jacke Alen. Present at the de-
claratyon of this my laste wyll and testament Sr Symone harry vicar of Kyldroght, Wyllyam Onmlmoy, Geffry Walshe and others.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Lucan, a will from 1558 leaves a small trace of this town. William Alen of Castletown, in his last will and testament, bequeathed to Manys Smythe, a woman who nursed his son Symone Alen, an in-calf cow and a heifer, with the increase of those animals reserved for his son. She was one of several nurses named in the will; Anne Artor nursed his son Christofer Alen and Davy Browne nursed his son Mathewe Alen, each receiving an in-calf cow on the same terms. The will also left a sow to Belle Newell, three shillings to the vicar of Kildrought, wheat to Old Joharolde, and a frieze coat to Alen's base son Jacke Alen, and was declared before Symone Harry, vicar of Kildrought, Wyllyam Onmlmoy, Geffry Walshe and others.

Bishop Wellesley's Tomb at Great Connell

Great Connell · street · Kildare · 1539

Bishop Walter Wellesley died in 1539 and was buried at his Monastery of Connell, with an altar tomb bearing his effigy and a Latin inscription describing him as Bishop of Kildare and Commendatory Prior.

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“ Here lies Friar Walter Wellysley, formerly Bishop of Kildare and Commendatory Prior of this House, on whose soul may God have mercy, who died in the year of the Lord 1539.”
“ State Papers of Henry VIII, Ire.,” vol. iii. p. 130,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 212

Castle of Carmecanestown besieged and burned in Carbury march

Carbury · townland · Kildare · 1326

A 1326 grant of £10 to Simon de Greneville was made to help repair the Castle of Carmecanestown in the march of Carbury, which had recently been besieged, taken, and burned by the king's felons of that march.

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In 1312 there is a grant of £6 16,9. to David Le Mazener, Yicar of Kildare, which sum he had paid to John Fitz Thomas “ for his expenses in crushing the malice of the felons of Carbury.”3 In 1325, among others appointed custodians of the peace in Co. Kildare was “ Bichard de Bermingham of Ballycoghlan for the district of Carbury.”4 In 1326 we have a grant of £10 to Simon de Greneville, to help him to repair the Castle of Carmecanestown in the march of Carbury, recently besieged, taken, and burned by the king’s felons5 of the said march.”
In 1333, “ The Breminghams of Carbre did take a great prey of 2000 kine or more of O’Conogher.”6

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 74

Cross and sculptured stones moved from Clonaugh to Johnstown Bridge

Johnstown · townland · Kildare

According to local tradition, a member of the Lee family transported a cross and sculptured stones from Clonaugh to Johnstown Bridge.

Read the passage

A family of Lees, who were said to be descendants of the Interpreter, lived at Thomastown, half-way between Clonaugh and Johnstown Bridge. I have heard it stated that it was a member of this family who brought from Clonaugh to Johnstown Bridge the cross and sculptured stones to which reference has been made in my former Paper. This family emigrated to America about the time of the famine.
In conclusion, I would say that if any member of the Kildare Archaeological Society should be gifted with a taste for writing romance in either prose or verse, there is ample groundwork for the same in the history of the troubled times we are considering. There is fierce and abundant tragedy pourtrayed in the ruin of so many of the old and respected families of Ireland ; and for comedy there is the tombstone of the Interpreter, with his patent invention for consigning his afflicted widow to a life of celibacy — an invention which turned out to be a wretched and laughable failure.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 247

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, a cross and sculptured stones were moved from Clonaugh to Johnstown Bridge. Local tradition says a member of the Lee family carried it out. The Lees lived at Thomastown, halfway between Clonaugh and Johnstown Bridge, and were said to be descendants of the Interpreter. The family emigrated to America about the time of the famine.

Forfeiture and recovery of Little Lath, Derry and Bodenstown

Little Rath · townland · Kildare · 1706–1741

Christopher Sherlock, eldest son of Philip Sherlock, followed King James II and forfeited the lands of Little Lath, Derry, and Bodenstown in 1706. These townlands were later bought back by Richard Sherlock and united with Sherlockstown in 1741.

Read the passage

We have already mentioned that the Sherlocks were located at Little Lath, in the county Kildare, in the year 1556. In 1646, Sir John Sherlock, knight of Little Lath, was, like many of his relatives, an officer in the service of King Charles I., and was governor of Naas under Lord Ormond. In his will, dated 1652, he gives a vivid picture of the discords and unhappiness of the times he lived in. He says — “In regard to the trouble of these times, and the general devastation of this county, my whole estate is likely, in all probability, to be of small benefit to me or to my wife, during our natural lives, and it hath pleased God (the wise disposer of all things) to bereave of my children and posterity of my own lovns; and those that are my brothers by my father (a second mother) are utterly incapable to inherit, in respect of their wicked adhering to the Irish, in the horrid rebellion of this nation.” Sir John Sherlock was buried at St. Michan’s, Dublin. His stepbrother Philip, who married Elizabeth, daughter of the Light Honourable Sir John Eustace, knight, of Harristown, had his property sequestered as a Papist, and was among the few proprietors who were restored in 1662 by the Court of Claims. He was buried at Bodenstown. Several of his sons followed the fortunes of King James II., and among them Christopher, the eldest, who forfeited Little Lath, Derry, and Bodenstown in 1706, which townlands were bought back by Lichard Sherlock, and united with Sherlockstown in 1741.
So that the representation of both branches of the Kildare Sherlocks now devolves on the present proprietor of Sherlockstown. The Sherlocks of Laban, King’s County, are lineal descendants of the Little Lath family.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 39

Foundation of Timolin by St. Moling

Timolin · townland · Kildare · 600–699

Timolin (Teach-Moling, 'Moling's house or church') came into existence in the seventh century when a religious establishment was founded there by St. Moling, Bishop of Ferns and patron saint of Clan Kavanagh.

Read the passage

This place came into existence in the seventh century, when a religious establishment was founded here by St. Moling, Bishop of Ferns, the patron saint of the Clan Kavanagh.
St. Moling was a native of Hy-Kinsellagli, a district which included the present County Wexford, the Barony of Shillelagh, in the County Wicklow, and the northern extremity of the County Carlow. After the establishment of surnames the principal family of this territory took the name of MacMorrough — a name now obsolete, though the race still exists under the adopted names of Kavanagh and Kinsella, which are both numerous.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 281

Founding of the Franciscan Monastery of Thetmoy (Monasteroris)

Monasteroris · townland · Offaly · 1325

In 1325 John de Bermingham founded the Franciscan Monastery of Thetmoy, known as Monaster Phaoris (Monasteroris), named for the founder's patronymic Mac Pheorais, son of Piers.

Read the passage

In 1325, he founded the Franciscan Monastery of Thetmoy, known as Monaster Phaoris, the monastery of Pheorais, or Piers, so-called from the patronymic of the founder, the son of Piers, Mac Pheorais.
He was now deservedly the foremost man among the Anglo- Norman settlers in Ireland, whom the victory of Faughard had saved from annihilation. But the sins of his father seem to have been visited on him.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 74

Jigginstown palace built by Lord Strafford, now a ruin

Jigginstown · townland · Kildare · 1633–1641

Lord Strafford, Lord Deputy of Ireland, erected the palace of Jigginstown, which is now a ruin and was likely never completed. An old County Kildare saying links it with the Wells of Tipper and the Bells of Blessington as things of note.

Read the passage

Jigginstown. — There is an old County Kildare saying which runs thus : “ There is nothing to equal the building of Jigginstown, the Wells of Tipper, and the Bells of Blessington.”
At the first excursion this Society ever held, Mr. Arthur Vicars (now Sir Arthur, and Ulster King-of-Arms) read a paper on Jigginstown, Thursday, September 3rd, 1891. Lord Strafford, Lord Deputy of Ireland, erected this building, now a ruin. In fact, we

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 266

As the companion tells it

Close to Jigginstown are the ruins of a palace built by Lord Strafford, Lord Deputy of Ireland, between 1633 and 1641, and likely never completed. An old County Kildare saying ranks it alongside the Wells of Tipper and the Bells of Blessington: "There is nothing to equal the building of Jigginstown, the Wells of Tipper, and the Bells of Blessington."

Lord Edward FitzGerald and Pamela lived at Kildare Castle

Kildare · town · Kildare

Lord Edward FitzGerald and his wife Pamela lived at Kildare Castle for some time.

Read the passage

Then he goes on to describe the siege of Ballysonan. A copy of a contemporaneous print will be found in the first volume of the Kilkenny Archaeological Society’s Journal. Lord Edward FitzGerald and his wife Pamela lived here for some time.
are

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 204

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare town, you are near Kildare Castle, where Lord Edward FitzGerald and his wife Pamela lived for some time. The record notes them simply, without detail on their stay.

MacTail as patron of St. Michael le Pole's Church, Dublin

Ship Street · street · Cork

O'Donovan identifies MacTail as patron saint not only of Kilcullen but also of St. Michael le Pole's Church near Ship Street, Dublin, with the name possibly anglicised to 'Michael.'

Read the passage

O’Donovan says of MacTail : “He was the patron saint of Kilcullen, in the County of Kildare, and of St. Michael le Pole’s Church, near Ship Street, Dublin, as is highly probable from this passage/’ And Dr. Todd suggests that “ MacTail ” may have been afterwards changed into “ Michael ” by the English, so that the original name signified MacTail’s church on the Poddle.
Any further information we have been able to gather concerning MacTail is contained in the following extracts : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 296

As the companion tells it

Along here, O'Donovan identified MacTail as the patron saint not only of Kilcullen in County Kildare but also of St. Michael le Pole's Church, near Ship Street in Dublin. Dr. Todd suggested that the English may afterwards have changed MacTail into Michael, so that the original name signified MacTail's church on the Poddle.

Right Hon. William Conolly purchases Castletown and builds mansion

Celbridge · town · Kildare · 1690–1715

Following the extinction of the Dongan earldom, the Right Honourable William Conolly purchased the Castletown property near the end of the seventeenth century and built the great mansion there.

Read the passage

The first of the name in the place was the Bight Honourable William Conolly, who purchased the property, and built the
1 Gerald, the 14th Earl of Kildare, about the beginning of the seventeenth century, granted a lease of Carton to Sir William Talbot, son of Robert, third son of Sir Thomas Talbot of Malahide, Bart., by whom a house was built at Carton, which is the nucleus of the present mansion. The Funeral Entry (copied from vol. vi, p. 29) given below deals with this Sir William

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 258

William de Vesci surrenders Kildare castle and manor

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1247

In 1247 William de Vesci surrendered the castle, manor and County of Kildare to King Edward, who directed his Justiciary John Wogan to take possession.

Read the passage

In 1247 William de Yesci surrendered the castle and manor and County of Kildare to King Edward, and the King directed his Justiciary, John Wogan, to take possession of them. I11 1316 Edward II, by letters patent, declared that he had granted to John FitzThomas the castle and town of Kildare, with its appurtenances, under the title of Earl of Kildare, and set him over it as Earl thereof.
I have seen it stated that Kildare was given to John Fitz- Thomas for his services to the English Crown during Bruce’s invasion of Ireland (1314 to 1316). Indeed, historians are not at all agreed as to how Offaly, the territory of the O’Connors, and later of the De Berminghams, came into the possession of the FitzGeralds. Offaly, so called from Rossa Failghe, eldest son of Cathair Mor, supreme King of Ireland in the beginning of the second century, included originally the present baronies of East

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 203

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is the town of Kildare. In 1247, William de Vesci surrendered the castle, the manor, and the entire County of Kildare to King Edward, who directed his Justiciary, John Wogan, to take possession of them. The castle and town later passed to John FitzThomas, granted by Edward II in 1316 under the title of Earl of Kildare. Some accounts say this grant rewarded FitzThomas for his services to the English Crown during Bruce's invasion of Ireland from 1314 to 1316, though historians do not agree on the details.

Young Nicholas Whyte given command of Leixlip garrison

Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1641

On the outbreak of the 1641 Rebellion, authorities in Dublin appointed three captains in County Kildare to raise forces and hold garrisons, with 'yonge Nicholas Whyte' responsible for Leixlip.

Read the passage

A contemporary History of affairs1 in Ireland in 1641 states that the authorities in Dublin appointed three captains in the County Kildare to raise forces and hold garrisons for the Government on the breaking out of the Rebellion : one was Maurice FitzGerald, of Allen, who was given the command in Naas ; the second was Pierce FitzGerald (also known as MacThomas), of Ballyshannon, who had charge of Castledermot ; and the third was “yonge Nicholas Whyte,” who was responsible for Leixlip. The account goes on to describe how- —
“One Oliver Dungan, then a yonge slippe, came by night with six or seven in his companie to the courte of the guarde of this Captain White’s companie, takes the lieutenant, seized on the men and armes, did swear e to putt them all to the sworde, unless they fourthwith march with him, as with their captain, to the Catholicke campe (the Irish campe at

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 274

As the companion tells it

Coming up now is the town of Leixlip, in County Kildare. When the 1641 Rebellion broke out, the authorities in Dublin appointed three captains across Kildare to raise forces and hold garrisons. Young Nicholas Whyte was given command here at Leixlip. But one night a man named Oliver Dungan, described as a "yonge slippe," came with six or seven companions and seized Whyte's lieutenant, the men, and their arms. Dungan swore he would put them all to the sword unless they marched with him straightaway to the Catholic camp. The record ends there, so you have the start of the story but not how it finished.

Archbishop Price's Death at Celbridge and Burial at Leixlip

Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1752

Arthur Price died on July 17th, 1752, at Celbridge, and was buried in Leixlip on July 20th, with a monumental slab recording his burial placed in the floor of the nave of Leixlip Church.

Read the passage

But Price’s ecclesiastical greatness did not stop short at the Bishopric of Clonfert. In 1730 he was translated to the Bishopric of Ferns; and in 1734 he was translated from that to the Bishopric of Meatli ; and remaining there ten years, in 1744 he was translated to the Archbishopric of Cashel. In 1746 he was made Vice-Chancellor of Trinity College, Dublin, and you can see his portrait on the walls of the Dining Hall of that University. * He died on July 17th, 1752, at Celbridge, and was buried in Leixlip on July 20th. A monumental slab recording his burial is placed in the floor of the nave of Leixlip Church.
Archbishop Price probably built the house now known as Oakly Park, about the same time that Castletown House was built, that is, in the year 1725, and tradition states that the two houses had a common architect. When promoted to the Bishopric of Meath he seems to have lived at Oakly Park, and from thence to have superintended the building of an episcopal residence for the Diocese of Meath at Ardbraccan, pursuant to the designs of his predecessor in the see, Bishop Evans. He did not complete Ardbraccan House, for before it was finished he was translated to the Archbishopric of Cashel. On which event the author of some ms. notes to an edition of Ware’s Antiquities , in the Library of Trinity College, makes the following sarcastic remark : — “ It had been much to be wished that he had never quitted Meath, and then the house at Ardbraccan would have been completed, and the noble and venerable Cathedral of Cashel would have escaped his destructive hand.” The reference in the latter sentence is to the fact that, when Archbishop of Cashel, he procured an Act of Council to remove the Cathedral from the llock of Cashel into the town, uniting the same with St. John’s Parish. “By which means,” adds the writer 1 have just quoted, “that noble and venerable pile has gone to ruins.” However, no man is without his redeeming

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 137

As the companion tells it

You're coming through Leixlip now, and in the floor of the nave of the church here lies a monumental slab recording the burial of Archbishop Arthur Price. He died on July 17, 1752, at Celbridge, and was buried here on July 20. Price had a long climb through the Church of Ireland. He was Bishop of Clonfert, then translated to Ferns in 1730, to Meath in 1734, and finally to the Archbishopric of Cashel in 1744. He was made Vice-Chancellor of Trinity College Dublin in 1746, and his portrait hangs in the Dining Hall there. He probably built the house known as Oakly Park around 1725, and tradition says it shared an architect with Castletown House. When he became Bishop of Meath he lived at Oakly Park and oversaw the start of an episcopal residence at Ardbraccan, though he never finished it. A contemporary writer made a sarcastic remark about his move to Cashel, saying it had been much to be wished he had never quitted Meath, for then the house at Ardbraccan would have been completed and the noble and venerable Cathedral of Cashel would have escaped his destructive hand. As Archbishop of Cashel, Price procured an Act of Council to remove the Cathedral from the Rock of Cashel into the town, uniting it with St John's Parish, by which means, the writer adds, that noble and venerable pile has gone to ruins.

English troops cut passes in Birmingham's country, Kildare

Carbury · townland · Kildare · 1538

In 1538 Lord D. Gray wrote to Henry VIII describing how he had cut three passes in the county of Kildare adjoining Offaly's borders, two of them through Birmingham's country, wide enough for several carts abreast, to allow troops to penetrate the woods.

Read the passage

The advice was only partially adopted. The Birminghams were detached from the O’Connors, and the latter had now to face a combination of the English Government with their old allies. In the following year (1538), Lord D. Gray writes to King Henry VIII. : — “ Pleaseth your Grace to be advertised that since my last letter sent unto your Grace, I have cut three pacys (passes) in the county of Kildare adjoining to the borders of Offaly, two in Brymingham’s country, whereof some of the said passes be a mile in length cut, and so broad cut, that 4 or 5 carts one by another may easily pass.”1 . . . These passes were necessary, to enable the English troops to penetrate the woods that were a natural defence to the frontiers of Offaly. In 1540, we find the O’Connors devastating the lands of the Birminghams, now their enemies.
The event is thus described by Brereton, writing from Dublin in that year : — “ O’Connor, with a great number of horsemen, gallowglasses, and kerne, burned the Bremyngham’s country.” The Lord Chancellor and the Treasurer were then in the county of Kildare raising the county against the O’Tooles, Kavanaghs, and O’Connors, “ and they then seeing

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 76

Norman inquisition into William de Mohun's lands at Ardscull, 1282

Ardscull · townland · Kildare · 1282

Following the death of William de Mohun in 1282, a sworn inquisition recorded his possessions at Ardscull including 60.5 acres in demesne, 160 burgages held by burgesses, a mill, woodland, and dues from beer prisage and pleas of the hundred.

Read the passage

The earliest Norman possessor of property in and around Ardscull, according to Sweetman’s Calendar of Documents, Ireland, appears to have been William de Mohun (Mo won), as, in the year 1282, the escheator of Ireland (John de Saunford) was ordered to take into the king’s hands all the lands whereof William de Mohun died seized in fee. William’s death took place at Ottery, in Devon, on the 25th of August, 1282. One of the twelve jury on the sworn Inquisition, held on the 4th of October in that year, to ascertain William’s possessions, was a Stephen de Molochmast. They found that he had in possession, besides the Manor of Grange Mohun (Moone), property in Bithelan (Belan), Carbery, Allen, and Arscol, all in the Co. Kildare, besides property in the Co. Kilkenny. As to Arscol, or Ardscull, “they say that there are here 60^- acres in demesne, which they extend at 60s. 6d.9 namely, each acre at 12c/. ; 8 acres held by William Hoper are extended to 8s. a-year, namely, 12 d. an acre : total, 68s. 6d. The burgesses of Arscol hold 160 burgages, and render therefor 8/. a-year, one moiety at Michaelmas, and the other at Easter, besides 3s. 8 cl. surplus rent.
“Mill, etc. They extend a moiety of the mill of Arscol, which William held at his death at 19s. a-year ; one moiety of the wood there at 6s. 8c/. ; prisage of beer there at 13s. 4 cL a-year, and pleas and perquisites of the hundred there at 20s. a-year ; total, 60s.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 129

Roland Scurlock granted the manor of Roslare by Queen Elizabeth

Rosslare · town · Wexford · 1625

Roland Scurlock, physician to Queen Mary and later Queen Elizabeth, obtained a grant of the manor of Roslare from the Queen. In 1625 records show Rowland Scurlocke of Rosclare was seised of the manor of Rosclare and Ballinmore, and the advowson of the rectory of Rosclare.

Read the passage

In 1542 Henry VIII. granted a pardon to Roland Scurlock, of Wexford and Dublin, Bachelor of Physic, for heresies published about six years previously. This Roland Scurlock and others were, in the years 1622-1623, seized of the town and lands of Ballyboygh, otherwise Ballybough ; he must have been in high favour with the ruling powers, for he was appointed physician to Queen Mary, and subsequently he was made physician to her strong-minded sister Queen Elizabeth ; from her he obtained a grant of the manor of Roslare. Consequently it is stated in The Inquisitions that in 1625 Rowland “Scurlocke of Rosclare ” was seized of the manor of Rosclare and B allin more, and of the advowson of the rectory of Rosclare. The Sherlocks seem to have lost their Wexford estates in consequence of the 1641 troubles, for in 1657 Edward Shurlock, of Bolganreagh, in the barony of Bantry, forfeited. When the manor of Roslare was confiscated, it passed into the possession of John Higate, and from him to his cousin Higate Boyd. The Boyd family still hold this estate, or rather what remains of it, as a considerable portion of it has been encroached on and now lies under the sea.
There are some curious particulars about this manor of Roslare to be found in the Southwell Papers. After the surrender of Wexford to the Normans, the Ostrnen of Wexford were placed under the care of the seneschal of the liberties of Wexford, and he seems to have transplanted them to the parishes of Roslare and Ballymore in Forth, which were manors attached to his office. In the Charter House at Westminster there is a curious document giving the result of an inquest held by Lord William de Valence, as to the rents, services, and customs of the foreign Eastmen of the counties of Wexford. It is worthy of observation that at that time they were not called Danes. These tenants of the manors of Roslare and Ballymore, under the Sherlocks, held as copyholders, a tenure common enough in England, but we believe unique in Ireland. Under this tenure, in Roslare, the tenant was obliged

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 32

Birth of Rev. Denis Murphy at Newmarket

Newmarket · town · Cork · 1833

The Rev. Denis Murphy, S.J., noted antiquarian and later editor of the Kildare Archaeological Society's Journal, was born at Newmarket, Co. Cork, on 12 January 1833.

Read the passage

The Rev. Denis Murphy, S.J., was born at Newmarket, in the county of Cork, on the 12th of January, 1833. He acquired the first rudiments of his education at a dame’s school in Kanturk. Quickly learning all that was to be taught therein, he was placed at a classical school in the same town, where he acquired a sound elementary knowledge of Greek and Latin. From this school at Kanturk he proceeded to Clongowes, where he studied rhetoric with some distinction. He was gifted with an excellent memory, and early in life acquired a power of mastering the details of a subject.
In October, 1848, he entered the Society of Jesus, making his noviciate at Toulouse. After the noviciate he spent three years in the study of philosophy, when, returning to Clongowes, he commenced the teaching of grammar and the humanities.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 64

Great distress of 1740-41 and Conolly occupation of Leixlip Castle

Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1740–1741

The years 1740 and 1741 were years of great distress in Ireland, during which William Conolly of Castletown, nephew of the Speaker, occupied Leixlip Castle, previously purchased by his uncle.

Read the passage

The years 1740 and 1741 were years of great distress in Ireland. At this time William Conolly, of Castletown, nephew and heir of the Right Hon. William Conolly, Speaker of the Irish House of Commons, occupied Leixlip Castle, which had previously been purchased hy his uncle, as Castletown House had been left to his aunt for her lifetime (she died in 1752). This may account for the quaint old oil-painting of Leixlip Castle and its neighbourhood, which is inserted in a panel over the fireplace in the hall at Castletown.
Lewis, in his “ Topographical Dictionary of Ireland,” speaking of Leixlip Castle, says: — “ This venerable mansion was the favourite retreat of several of the viceroys, of whom Lord Townsend1 usually spent the summer here ; it is at present (1837) the residence of the Hon. George Cavendish, by whom it has been modernized and greatly improved.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 277

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is the town of Leixlip, in Kildare. The years 1740 and 1741 were years of great distress in Ireland, and during that time William Conolly of Castletown occupied Leixlip Castle. He was the nephew and heir of William Conolly, Speaker of the Irish House of Commons, who had previously purchased the castle. Castletown House had been left to William's aunt for her lifetime, and she did not die until 1752. A painting of Leixlip Castle and its neighbourhood, set in a panel over the fireplace in the hall at Castletown, may date from his time here. Lewis later called the castle a favourite retreat of several viceroys, among them Lord Townsend, who usually spent the summer here. By 1837 it was the residence of the Hon. George Cavendish, who had modernized and greatly improved it.

Parishioners of Kildare too poor to repair the ruined church roof

Kildare · town · Kildare

In a report by Dr. Pilsworth, Bishop of Kildare, the roof of the body of the church was said to be altogether ruinous, pulled down in the late wars, and the parishioners so poor they were unable to repair it without royal assistance.

Read the passage

1600 a.d. The town of Kildare suffered so severely that all the houses were in ruins and without a single inhabitant. That the Cathedral shared in the general wreck is shown, firstly, in the Rural Visitation Book of 1615, in which it is stated, “ The church of Kildare diocese, situated in the town of Kildare, is now wholly ruinous,” and again in the Report of Dr. Pils worth, Bishop of Kildare, “ The roof of the body of the said church is altogether ruinous, being pulled down in the late wars. The parishioners of the same are so poor that they are unable to repair the same, unless his excellent majesty vouchsafe, of his wonted goodness, to grant some extraordinary help and furtherance thereto.”
1641 a.d. The cathedral suffered severely having had its steeple beaten down by a cannonade.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 164

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare town, you are moving through a place that was utterly devastated around 1600, when every house stood in ruins with not a single inhabitant left. The cathedral shared in that destruction. A visitation book of 1615 records that the church of Kildare diocese, situated in the town, was wholly ruinous. Dr. Pilsworth, Bishop of Kildare, reported that the roof of the body of the church was altogether ruinous, having been pulled down in the late wars. The parishioners were so poor they could not repair it unless his majesty granted some extraordinary help. Later, in 1641, the cathedral suffered again when its steeple was beaten down by cannonade.

Petition to fortify the Moat of Ardscull, 1654

Ardscull · townland · Kildare · 1654

A 1654 petition from the inhabitants of County Kildare asked the state to contribute thirty pounds toward finishing a fort they had built at the Moat of Ardscull, near the Barrow on a considerable road, so it could serve as a garrison.

Read the passage

of Kildare. j Inhabitants of the Countie of Kildare, praying that the state would contribute thirty pounds towards the finishing of a Fort y* they have built at the Mote of Ardscall lying near the Barrow, & upon a considerable road, & that the same may be a Garrison.
It is ordered that it be referred to Coll. Hewson, Coll. Laurence, & the Com1' Gen11 of the Revenue, to consider of the allegacion, & of the necessity of fortifying a place in Kildare, & of the convenience of the place within mentioned, for such a forte; and being satisfied therein to certify the same to the Council, & theComre Gen11 to give order for a warrant to be prepared for contributing' towards the finishing thereof out of ye publique Treasury not exceeding twenty pounds^

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 127

Alen's will names Kildrought mill, vicarage and local tenants

Celbridge · town · Kildare · 1558

William Alen's will of 1558 mentions the parish church and vicar of Kildrought, and lists bequests to local tenants and nurses at Lucan and elsewhere, giving a vivid picture of estate life around Castletown.

Read the passage

my body to be buryede in the churche of Donaghcompor where it shall plese my broder Sr John Alen, and to the reparacyon of the sayd churche I give ten shillings stirlinge after Irland rate, and to my paryshe churche of Kyldroght other ten shillings.
And I ordeyne and constitute of this my laste wyll and testament my broder Sr John Alen Knyght, late lord chancellor of Irland, and my broder Thomas Alen clerke of thannaper my executors, and wyll that after my decesse my goodes and cattails be by them dyvyd into three parts wherof won parte I wyll that Margret my wyffe shall have as due to her for her portyon. Annother parte to my chylderne John Alen, Thomas Alen, Mathewe Alen, Symone Alen, and Crystofer Alen, and my doghters Kateryne and Anne Alen, And the thyrd parte after my buryall and funeral! cloon, debtes, and legacyes payed, to be dyvyd by my sayde bretherne in two partes wherof won parte I do give to my sayd wyffe and thother parte to my sayd chylderne to be equally distribute amongst them by my sayd executors. And I wyll if any of my sayd chylderne decesse befor manage that his or her porcyon and legacy of my goods not spent before upon hym or her so dyenge or as moche as shall remayne then unspent, be by my sayd executors, or the longest lyvd of them, or the executors or assigns of the . . .

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 251

Burial of Lord Portlester at the Franciscan Abbey, Kilcullen

Kilcullen · town · Kildare · 1496

The father of the Earl's first wife, Lord Portlester, died and was buried in the Franciscan Abbey at Kilcullen, after which the Manor at Portlester passed to the Earl.

Read the passage

The father of his first wife, Lord Portlester, died at this time and was buried in the Franciscan Abbey at Kilcullen ; and so the Manor at Portlester, county Meath, passed to the Earl, who soon after embellished the church of the neighbouring Abbey of Bective, and paved it with encaustic tiles, some of which bore his arms and motto. These tiles are remarkable as being the only Irish example at present known bearing a family coat of arms ; they are five and a quarter inches square and from one to one and a half inches in thickness ; the clay is baked red in colour and glazed or varnished over the face with a greenish yellow substance. The design in the centre of the

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 86

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kilcullen in Kildare, there was a Franciscan Abbey here where Lord Portlester was buried in 1496. He was the father of the Earl's first wife, and after his death the Manor at Portlester in County Meath passed to the Earl. The Earl then embellished the church of the nearby Abbey of Bective and paved it with encaustic tiles bearing his arms and motto.

Collapse of Inch Castle near Athy

Inch · townland · Kildare · 1896

During the wet season at the start of the year of writing, the eastern corner of Inch Castle near Athy collapsed, destroying the original entrance with its internal murder-hole, a large part of the staircase, and chambers overhead.

Read the passage

Two ancient structures in the southern end of the county have suffered severely from the weather during the last two winters. During the hard February of 1895 a large portion of the church ruins of Killelan, near Moone, fell to the ground; and during the wet season at the commencement of this year the eastern corner of Inch Castle, near Athy, collapsed, destroying the original entrance, with its internal “ murder-hole, : ” a large portion of the staircase built in the thickness of the wall, besides the chambers overhead.
Sunday’s Well. — In the county Kildare there are anyhow three wells, if not more, known as “ Sunday’s Well ” ; one of them is near the village of Clane, another near Haas, and the third is in the townland of Kichardstown, and parish of Kildangan. The last one mentioned is the only one which bears the Irish form of the name, viz. Toberreendowney ” which is a contraction for “ Tober-righ-an-domhnaigh,” meaning the Well of the King of Sunday ( i.e . God).1 Can any of our readers inform me on what day the Patterns were formerly held at these wells? Just over the mearin of the county Kildare, and in the county Carlow, is a Sunday’s Well at a place called Ivinneagh, which lies about four miles to the south-east of Castledermot; according to the Ordnance Survey letters the Pattern was held here on Whit Sunday,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 103

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Inch, the eastern corner of Inch Castle near Athy collapsed during the wet season at the start of 1896. The fall destroyed the original entrance, with its internal murder-hole, a large portion of the staircase built in the thickness of the wall, and the chambers overhead. The castle had already suffered from severe weather over the previous two winters, the same storms that brought down a large portion of the church ruins of Killelan near Moone in the hard February of 1895.

Elizabeth grants Castle Carbery to Sir Henry Colley

Carbury · townland · Kildare · 1562

After the extinction of the Birmingham male line through Baron William's son Edward, the lands reverted to the Crown, and Queen Elizabeth granted Castle Carbery to Sir Henry Colley in 1562.

Read the passage

As Edward died without issue the lands granted by patent reverted to the Crown. Elizabeth granted Castle Carbery to Sir Henry Colley in 1562. Sir William Birmingham, Baron of Carbury, was buried in the Mortuary Chapel of his family at Dunfierth, where his recumbent effigy may still be seen. The chapel and the tombstone have been fully described by Lord Walter FitzGerald in the “ Journal of the Society for the Preservation of Memorials of the dead in Ireland ” (1895), and I must refer you to it for further details.
The other members of the family do not appear to have been so loyal as William. We find Elizabeth writing thus to the Council in 1599 : “ What will be the answer of the traitor (O’Neill) for the last treason of the bridge where Esmond’s company was defeated, and what reason will he yield for usurping so unjustly in the time of the cessation to place Bermingham in the county of Kildare?” 3 When the last of the Barons passed away, the Manor of Dunfierth devolved on Walter Birmingham, of Meilerstown, nephew of Baron William, and the Birminghams continued for many years to hold a high position in the county. In 1608, “the Jurors of our Lord the King,” in the Barony of Carbury, were all Birminghams : — John Birmingham, of Dunport (Dunfierth), Richard of Muclane (Mucklands), Piers of Gavisker (Garrisker), Thomas of Longwood, Richard of Russelswood.4

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 76

Grant of lands near Carbury castle to William Birmingham for loyalty

Carbury · townland · Kildare · 1424

In 1424 the king granted William, son of John Birmingham, land at Feynoldstown alias Paynescastell near the Castle of Carbury in Kildare, as reward for service against the rebel Birminghams.

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In the meantime some of the Birminghams seem to have been bought over by the English. There is a grant of the year 1424 in which the “ king in consideration of the service rendered by William, son of John Birmingham, in the wars against the rebels and marauders, called Bermynghames, gives him four messuages, and 80 acres of arable land, 8 acres of meadow, and 20 of pasture, and 20 of wood, in Feynoldstown, alias, Paynescastell, hard by the Castle of Carbury in the Co. Kildare. To be held from the king at Soccage, to the value of 5m. per annum, by him and the heirs male of his body. . . . But if he die without heirs male, they are then to revert to John Bermynham, brother of the said William and to his heirs male.”6
In 1443, however, the whole family were once more in revolt. In that year the son of the chief Birmingham entered the town of Trim under a safe conduct of the Earl of Ormonde. One of the Barnewalls, Treasurer of Trim, contemptuously gave him a stroke of his finger on the nose. Thereupon young Birmingham left the town, and went straight to O’Connor of Offaly. The two families once more united, and war against the Bale was again declared. This war was called by the

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 74

Manor of Timolinbegg created with fair on patron saint's day

Timolin · townland · Kildare · 1628

In 1628 William Archbold received letters patent for the site of Timolinbegg's religious house and lands, which were erected into the Manor of Timolinbegg with a court leet, court baron, and an annual fair held on 17 June, St Moling's feast day.

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In 1628, William Archbold received from the Crown letters patent of the site and possessions of the late Hospital of St. John of Tristledermott (now Castledermot), and of the religious house of Timolinbegg, with all their lands, fishings, rents, services, and other possessions, to be held in capite by the twentieth part of a Knight’s fee. The lands were erected into a manor to be called the Manor of Timolinbegg, with a court leet, court baron, and a fair to be held on the 17th of June (the patron saint’s day).4
Besides the Church of St. Moling and the nunnery, Timolin at one period could boast of a castle ; but the date of its erection, and by whom it was built, I am unable to say. It was probably a Norman castle, like many others whose remains are dotted over the country, which as a rule were built at a very early period.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 285

Ruins of Castle Carbury Described

Carbury · townland · Kildare · 1100–1530

Sir William Wilde's description of Castle Carbury notes ruins possibly dating to the twelfth century, with rubble masonry walls of great thickness extending beyond the present ruin, alongside later additions including sixteen-sided chimneys resembling English work of about 1530.

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century ; indeed some of them appear to be as old as the twelfth century, and there are remains of walls of great thickness, built with rubble masonry and grouted, extending even beyond the confines of the present ruin to the north-west. The modern additions all exist on the opposite side, and their later date is at once manifest. Four of the chimneys, three of which are in the eastern front, have sixteen sides, and are like some of the chimneys of English castles built about the year 1530, being beautifully wrought and moulded at the top.”
So far Sir W. Wilde.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 67

The Wonderful Barn built by the Conolly family, 1743

Castletown · street · Kildare · 1743

An unsightly building known as 'the Wonderful Barn' stands a mile from Castletown House, visible from its windows, built by the Conolly family in 1743, probably as the Home Farm, with conical corner towers at the haggard enclosure.

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“ The Wonderful Barn,” built by the Conolly family in 1743.
From the windows on the north-east side of Castletown House, at the end of an opening in the trees, is seen a mile off an unsightly building, known as “ the Wonderful Barn,” which was probably at one time the Home Farm, as it was built by the Conolly family. A conical tower, similar to the one in the illustration, stands at each corner of the haggard-enclosure wall.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 262

As the companion tells it

Along here is the Wonderful Barn, built by the Conolly family in 1743. It stands about a mile from Castletown House, visible from the windows on the north-east side through an opening in the trees. It was probably the Home Farm at one time. A conical tower stands at each corner of the haggard enclosure wall.

Thomas, 2nd Earl of Kildare, builds chapel at Castledermot

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1328

Thomas, 2nd Earl of Kildare and twice Lord Justice of Ireland, added the Chapel of St. Mary to the Church of the Franciscans at Castledermot and was buried before the altar of Our Lady in the Grey Abbey of Kildare alongside his wife Lady Joan de Burgh.

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4. The next entry occurs on March 9, 1328: — “ Obitus Thome com. Kild. qui erat filius Jolis com Kild : dom. de Offaly et Justic. Hiber : idem Thome edificavit capell ba Mrie in monasterio mar in Kild : ubi sepel. et dom. Johan de burgo uxor ejus.” Here I find a difference of a month, for the date of Thomas, 2nd Earl of Kildare’s, death is given in “ The Earls of Kildare ” as 9th April. He was twice Lord Justice of Ireland. He added the Chapel of St. Mary to the Church of the Franciscans at Castledermot, and was buried before the altar of our Lady in the Grey Abbey of Kildare, where his wife, Lady Joan de Burgh, was also buried.
5. In the next entry — “Obitus Maur : filii Thome quarti Comitis Kyldar qui obiit Aug., 1380, et sepel : in cancell Ste Trinitat Dublin,” the day of the month looks like loth, but as Maurice FitzThomas, 4th Earl of Kildare, died on 25th August, 1390, probably part of the figure has become effaced, and the “8” maybe in reality “ 9,” as the figures are very small, faint, and difficult to decipher. The place of burial is correct, being now Christ Church, Dublin.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 292

Whyte monument in Leixlip Church

Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1654

Sir Nicholas Whyte died in 1654 and was buried at Leixlip like his father; his wife Lady Ursula erected a mural monument to his memory, now inserted in the wall on the north side of the chancel arch.

Read the passage

Andrew Whyte’s son and heir was Sir Nicholas Whyte, Knt., who married Lady Ursula, daughter of Sir Garrett Moore, Knt., of Mellifont, Co. Louth, created Viscount Drogheda in 1621. Sir Nicholas died on the 24th of February, 1654, and, like his father, was buried at Leixlip ; his wife erected a mural monument to his memory, which is now inserted in the wall on the north side of the chancel arch. This monument consists of two portions: the upper stone (24 in. high X 18 in. broad) bears two coats of arms impaled and in relief, viz. : —
On the dexter side, “Argent, a chevron between three roses gules, barbed and seeded or,” for Whyte.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 273

As the companion tells it

As the road takes you through Leixlip, there's a church with a monument to Sir Nicholas Whyte, who died on the 24th of February, 1654, and was buried in the town like his father before him. His wife, Lady Ursula, daughter of Sir Garrett Moore of Mellifont, erected the mural monument, which is now set into the wall on the north side of the chancel arch. The upper stone bears two coats of arms impaled in relief, the Whyte arms showing "a chevron between three roses."

Allen lands lie uncultivated due to war with men of Offaly

near Allen · population centre · Kildare · 1297

An inquisition of 1297 into De Vescy's lands found that 51 acres of arable land at Allen, formerly worth 34 shillings a year, lay uncultivated and rendered nothing because of ongoing war with the men of Offaly.

Read the passage

On the death of De Yescy an inquisition of his lands was taken with a view to granting Isabella, his widow, “ her dower thereout, according to that extent, and according to the law and custom of Ireland.”5 In 1297, the jurors report that, among other places he held, “at Alwyn (Allen), 51 acres of arable land in the March of Offaly, which were wTont to be worth 34s. a year, but now lie uncultivated, owing to the war of the men of Offaly, and render nothing ; at Thurgeg (?) in Carbury, in the same March, four score acres which were wont to be worth 53s. 4 d. a year, but now lie uncultivated, owing to the same war, and render nothing.”6 This not very profitable property was, however, assigned to De Yescy ’s desolate widow.7
1 Cal. Stat. Doc., vol. ii. , 935. 2 Ibid., 1503.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 71

Ancient Cloncurry mentioned in Annals of the Four Masters

Cloncurry · townland · Kildare · 586–1171

Cloncurry, meaning 'Conary's meadow', was anciently called Cluain-Conaire-Toiman and is mentioned in the Annals of the Four Masters under the years 586, 837, 869, and 1171; Lord Cloncurry takes his title from this place.

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Cloncurry is the name of two parishes in the County Kildare : one is situated between Kilcock and Innfield, in the barony of Ikeathy and Ougliterany ; and the other lies between Rathangan and Lullymore, in the barony of East Offaly. The name means “ Conary’s meadow.” The ancient name of the former was “ Cluain- Conaire-Toiman,” or Maoinean, a saint whose festival was held on the 16th of September. This place is mentioned in “ The Annals of the Four Masters” under the years 586, 837, 869, and 1171 ; and from it Lord Cloncurry takes his title. The second Cloncurry was dedicated to St. Maelduv, whose Pattern was held on the 18th of December ; the Four Masters mention it in the year 778.
Gilltown. — Can “ St. Boyana of Gylton,” County Kildare, be identified? The saint so appears in Fiant No. 8,146, of Elizabeth. In the fourteenth century Gilltown is mentioned in Sweetman’s Calendar of Irish Documents as “ the Grange and chapel of Inchbristelan (or Inchbrislon), alias Gilton, County of Kildare, in the Deanery of Balymor.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 222

A third portion of the Pale ditch near Kilcock

Kilcock · town · Kildare · 1494–1891

The author reports being told of another surviving portion of the double ditch defensive boundary near Kilcock, part of the same fortification system built to protect the Pale from Irish raids.

Read the passage

There are still several portions of this double ditch six feet high remaining, one part between Clane and Clongowes, close to the south-western angle of the garden wall of the college, another part from the college farmyard to the nearer end of the by-road that leads to Bathcoffy ; both are locally known as “ the Bampart,” and are still of the original height, as some of our fox-hunting friends must know to their cost, and almost wide enough at the top for a cart to go along on them. There is a third portion near Kilcock, I have been told, and perhaps more in other parts along the line of division given above. Perhaps some of our members who reside in that part of the country may look them up and give us some information about them. This ditch would not be any great hindrance for an active person to cross it, such as an English writer who accompanied King Bichard II., in his expedition to Ireland against Art M‘Morrogh, describes the Irish to be, “ so nimble and swift of foot that like unto, stags, they ran over mountains and valleys,” and could mount a horse going at full speed. But if we bear in mind that cattle constituted the great wealth of the English colonists, and that the lifting, or ‘reeving’ of them was the principal way in which their Irish neighbours could do them
E 2

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 43

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kilcock, you are near a surviving portion of the double ditch that once marked the boundary of the Pale. The author of this county journal was told that a third stretch of it remains near here, standing about 6 feet high and almost wide enough at the top for a cart to travel along. Other portions, locally known as "the Bampart," survive between Clane and Clongowes. The ditch was built to protect English colonists whose wealth lay in cattle, and to slow the Irish neighbours who made off with them. It would not have stopped an active person. An English writer who accompanied King Richard the Second described the Irish as "so nimble and swift of foot that like unto stags they ran over mountains and valleys."

Birmingham attainders of 1642 named across Carbury townlands

Dunfierth · townland · Kildare · 1642

In the attainders of 1642 following the 1641 rebellion, several Birminghams were proscribed by their specific townlands, including Ballinamallough, Rahin, Mucklands, Ballinakill, Parsonstown and Dunfierth.

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During the reign of James I. and the early part of the reign of Charles I., Ireland was in a state of comparative tranquillity, and there were no wars or border forays in which the Birminghams could distinguish themselves. But when the trumpet sounded in 1641, they “knew the battle’s din afar, and joyed to hear it swell.” In the attainders of the following year we find prescribed : “ William Birmingham of Ballinamallough, John Birmingham of Ralieen (Rahin) and Muckland, Piers and Gerald Birmingham of Ballinakill, Luke of Parsonstown, and Gerald of Dunfierth, Clerk.”
1 State Papers, Henry VIII., vol. iii., p. 216, note. 2 Carew MSS.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Gerald Birmingham, described as a clerk, was named in the attainders of 1642. After the 1641 rebellion, the Birminghams were proscribed by their lands — William of Ballinamallough, John of Rahin and Mucklands, Piers and Gerald of Ballinakill, Luke of Parsonstown, and Gerald of Dunfierth. The source says they "knew the battle's din afar, and joyed to hear it swell."

Bishop Moreton builds pro-cathedral choir at Kildare, 1683

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1683

William Moreton, consecrated Bishop of Kildare, built a kind of pro-cathedral or choir on the site of the ancient chancel at Kildare, probably commenced in 1683, allowed to hold the Deanery in commendam due to the poverty of the See after alienation of manors by Bishop Craik in 1560.

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Bishop Moreton built a kind of pro-cathedral or choir, on the site of the ancient chancel. This building was probably commenced in 1683, as a stone with his name and this date, may still be seen amongst the monuments in the cathedral.
On this structure, Mr. George Edmund Street, r.a., reported in 1871, as follows : — “ The choir is the only part still roofed and used for service ; it is fitted up for use as a Cathedral choir, with seats for the parishioners in the centre. Its architectural character is of the poorest description. . . . The roof is not in good condition, but is concealed from view by an internal flat and plastered ceiling.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 165

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare town, you are near the site where Bishop William Moreton built a kind of pro-cathedral or choir on the ancient chancel, probably begun in 1683. A stone bearing his name and that date could still be seen among the cathedral monuments. By 1871 the architect George Edmund Street reported that the choir was the only part still roofed and used for service, fitted with seats for parishioners. He called its architectural character "of the poorest description," and noted the roof was not in good condition, hidden by a flat plastered ceiling.

Burial of Earls of Kildare at the Franciscan Convent

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1286–1399

Several Earls of Kildare, including Gerald third Lord Offaly (died at Rathmore 1286), John first Earl (died at Laraghbryan 1316), Thomas second Earl (died at Maynooth 1328) and Richard third Earl (died at Rathangan 1399), were buried in the Franciscan Convent of Kildare.

Read the passage

The following Earls were, I find, buried in the Franciscan Convent of Kildare
1. Gerald, third Lord Offaly, who died at Rathmore in 1286.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 206

As the companion tells it

The Franciscan Convent in Kildare was the burial place of several Earls of Kildare. Gerald, third Lord Offaly, died at Rathmore in 1286 and was laid to rest here. John, first Earl, who died at Laraghbryan in 1316, Thomas, second Earl, who died at Maynooth in 1328, and Richard, third Earl, who died at Rathangan in 1399, were all buried in the convent.

Castledermot Abbey scheduled as National Monument

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1896

The Council reported that during the past year the Abbey at Castledermot, through the Society's exertions, was scheduled as a National Monument and taken charge of by Sir Thomas Deane to prevent further decay. This made it the fourth building in the county scheduled under the National Monuments Preservation Act.

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The Council are happy to report that during the past year the Abbey at Castledermot, which, through the exertions of the Society, was scheduled as a National Monument, was taken charge of by Sir Thomas Deane, r.h.a., and prevented from falling to further decay, thus making the fourth building in the c< unty scheduled under the National Monuments Preservation Act, the others being the Pound Towers of Taghadoe, Ougliterard, and Old Kilcullen.
Two Members of the Council, Mr. George Mansfield and the Pev. Canon Sherlock, retire by rotation, and being eligible, offer themselves for re-election.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 151

Charles Whyte, Governor of Kildare, buried at Leixlip

Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1689–1697

Charles Whyte, fourth son of Sir Nicholas Whyte, served in Spain, was Governor of County Kildare in 1689, died about 1697 and was buried at Leixlip, succeeded by his son John.

Read the passage

Sir Nicholas Whyte’s successor at Leixlip was his fourth son, Charles, who had served in Spain, and in 1689 was Governor of the County Kildare ; he died about the year 1697, was buried at Leixlip, and was succeeded by his son John, from whom, I believe, the Conollys of Castletown purchased Leixlip, which remains at present in the possession of that family.
We must now hark back to the 1641 period.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 274

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Leixlip, this is where Charles Whyte was buried, around 1697. He was the fourth son of Sir Nicholas Whyte and had served in Spain before becoming Governor of County Kildare in 1689. His son John succeeded him, and the Conollys of Castletown later bought Leixlip from that line.

Colonel Hewson takes Kildare during Confederate war

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1650

In February 1650, Colonel Hewson, marching from Dublin toward Kilkenny, took Kildare, Hertwell, and Collingstown on his way, after having taken a fort on the Bog of Allen and Castlemartin.

Read the passage

fort upon the Bog of Allen and taken Castlemartin, and placing a garrison therein, I marched with a party of 1,000 horse and foot into the Island of Allen, and surrounded Kilmaog therein ; but, finding it not feasible to storm without guns, I marched to Kathbride and Ponser’s Grange, and took them, and placed two strong garrisons there, which did give me good footing in the Co. Kildare. Then sent a party and took Kildare, Hertwell, and Collingstown.”
Then he goes on to describe the siege of Ballysonan. A copy of a contemporaneous print will be found in the first volume of the Kilkenny Archaeological Society’s Journal. Lord Edward FitzGerald and his wife Pamela lived here for some time.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 204

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Kildare now. In February 1650, during the Confederate war, Colonel Hewson was marching from Dublin toward Kilkenny. He had already taken a fort on the Bog of Allen and Castlemartin, then marched with 1,000 horse and foot into the Island of Allen, where he surrounded Kilmaog but found it not feasible to storm without guns. He moved on to Kathbride and Ponser's Grange, took them, and placed two strong garrisons there, giving him, in his own words, "good footing in the Co. Kildare." Then he sent a party and took Kildare itself, along with Hertwell and Collingstown. He went on from there to besiege Ballysonan.

Coningen founds the church of Cill Coagh at Donard

Donard · town · Wicklow

Coningen, daughter of the King of Leinster and pupil then fellow-worker of MacTail, was foundress of the church of Cill Coagh at Donard and other churches in Leinster.

Read the passage

In the “Genealogy of Saints” in the Book of Lecan, fol. 196, and in “M‘Firbis,” we find it stated that MacTail of Cillcullen was one of the saints of the HyBairrche, a tribe whose territories were on the banks of the Barrow and Slaney. His father was Eogan, a carpenter, and he was named “ Son of Adze/1 in allusion to one of the symbols of his father’s profession. The daughter of the King of Leinster, Coningen, “ the fair pillar,” of whom many mythical stories are told, appears to have been first his pupil and then his fellow-worker. She was the foundress of the church of Cill Coagh, at Donard, and of some churches in Leinster.
The death of MacTail is recorded in the “Annals of Ulster,” and of the “ Four Masters,” as occurring in the year 548, while the “Annals of Clonmacnois” give it at a.d. 550. He seems to have been regarded in the tenth century as patron saint of Kilcullen, to the exclusion of Isserninus, from the following entry in the “Genealogy of the Scandinavian Chieftains,” “Wars of the Gaidhel with the Gaill,” App. D, p. 283, where the deliver-

Internet Archive journalofcountyk02coun, Chapter 295

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Donard in Wicklow, this was once the site of a church called Cill Coagh. Its foundress was Coningen, called

Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (vol. 2)

The stories, best first

Gerald, 11th Earl of Kildare, restored and sells Castletown manor to Sutton

Iron implements and skeletons unearthed at Barrowford brickfields

Isserninus, Bishop of Kilcullen, studied at Auxerre

Lees family of Thomastown and the Clonaugh cross moved to Johnstown Bridge

Levelling of the small square rath near Ardscull by Christy Hickey

New Bridge over the Liffey, built 1308

Parthalonians said to have died of plague at Tallaght

Philip Sherlock of Little Lath buried at Bodenstown

Ruaidhri taken prisoner in the stone church of Kilcullen

Ruin of the old mansion at Little Rath

Sir William Talbot builds house at Carton

Speaker William Conolly's Monument in the Conolly Vault

St. Laurence baptized in St. Bridget's church, Kildare

The Moat of Ardscull as ancient rath overlooking Athy

Trinity Well as Source of the River Boyne

White linen scarves adopted at Conolly's funeral

Oakly Park Built by Archbishop Price with Common Architect as Castletown House

1896 planting of oak tree on traditional site at Kildare Cathedral reopening

Baldwinstown Castle and its Montgomery, Keating and Sherlock owners

Bequest to a nurse of Lucan in Alen's will

Bishop Wellesley's Tomb at Great Connell

Castle of Carmecanestown besieged and burned in Carbury march

Cross and sculptured stones moved from Clonaugh to Johnstown Bridge

Forfeiture and recovery of Little Lath, Derry and Bodenstown

Foundation of Timolin by St. Moling

Founding of the Franciscan Monastery of Thetmoy (Monasteroris)

Jigginstown palace built by Lord Strafford, now a ruin

Lord Edward FitzGerald and Pamela lived at Kildare Castle

MacTail as patron of St. Michael le Pole's Church, Dublin

Right Hon. William Conolly purchases Castletown and builds mansion

William de Vesci surrenders Kildare castle and manor

Young Nicholas Whyte given command of Leixlip garrison

Archbishop Price's Death at Celbridge and Burial at Leixlip

English troops cut passes in Birmingham's country, Kildare

Norman inquisition into William de Mohun's lands at Ardscull, 1282

Roland Scurlock granted the manor of Roslare by Queen Elizabeth

Birth of Rev. Denis Murphy at Newmarket

Great distress of 1740-41 and Conolly occupation of Leixlip Castle

Parishioners of Kildare too poor to repair the ruined church roof

Petition to fortify the Moat of Ardscull, 1654

Alen's will names Kildrought mill, vicarage and local tenants

Burial of Lord Portlester at the Franciscan Abbey, Kilcullen

Collapse of Inch Castle near Athy

Elizabeth grants Castle Carbery to Sir Henry Colley

Grant of lands near Carbury castle to William Birmingham for loyalty

Manor of Timolinbegg created with fair on patron saint's day

Ruins of Castle Carbury Described

The Wonderful Barn built by the Conolly family, 1743

Thomas, 2nd Earl of Kildare, builds chapel at Castledermot

Whyte monument in Leixlip Church

Allen lands lie uncultivated due to war with men of Offaly

Ancient Cloncurry mentioned in Annals of the Four Masters

A third portion of the Pale ditch near Kilcock

Birmingham attainders of 1642 named across Carbury townlands

Bishop Moreton builds pro-cathedral choir at Kildare, 1683

Burial of Earls of Kildare at the Franciscan Convent

Castledermot Abbey scheduled as National Monument

Charles Whyte, Governor of Kildare, buried at Leixlip

Colonel Hewson takes Kildare during Confederate war

Coningen founds the church of Cill Coagh at Donard