Read the copy these stories were drawn from on the Internet Archive.
- 375
- stories drawn from it
- 375
- placed on the map
- 23
- counties: Kildare, Dublin, Offaly and more
- 7,282
- words in the passages on this page
The stories, best first
page 4 of 7 · 375 in all
Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.
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Giraldus Cambrensis on the Giants' Dance near Naas
Naas · town · Kildare
Giraldus Cambrensis recorded a legend that a remarkable pile of stones called 'the Giants' Dance' was brought by giants from Africa and set up on the plains of Kildare, not far from the fortress of Naas — likely referring to the Longstones still standing near Naas at Punchestown, Craddockstown, Newtown (Tipper) and Furness.
Read the passage
‘ ‘ In ancient times there was in Ireland a remarkable pile of stones called “the Giants’ Dance,” because the giants brought it from the furthest parts of Africa into Ireland, and set it up, partly by main strength, partly by artificial contrivances, in an extraordinary way, on the plains of Kildare, not far from the fortress of Nass (in Kildarensi planitie non procul a castro Nasensi).1
Giraldus probably referred to the Longstones of Punchestown, Craddockstown, Newtown (Tipper), and Furness, which are still standing near Naas. There are no monoliths, as far as I know, near the Curragh.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 14
As the companion tells it
As you pass through Naas, you are near the plains of Kildare where Giraldus Cambrensis wrote of a remarkable pile of stones he called the Giants' Dance. He recorded that giants brought these stones from the furthest parts of Africa and set them up on the plains of Kildare, not far from the fortress of Naas. Scholars think he meant the Longstones still standing near Naas at Punchestown, Craddockstown, Newtown and Furness.
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Government Plates raced for annually at Curragh Races from 1696
near The Curragh · locality · Kildare · 1696–1820
From 1696, the Government encouraged horse-breeding in Ireland by offering two Plates of £100 each to be run for annually at the Curragh Races, with records of winners preserved in the Record Office from 1696 to 1820.
Read the passage
“ Paid to John Philips for a Piece of Plate run for on ye Curragh of Kildare the 16th inst., and of his Majesties bounty, given yearely for encouragement to breed horses, as by warrant dated the 13th of September, 1697, and acquittance appears ... £103 16 0
“ Paid to Lord Mazareen, as of his Majesties bounty, for the yearly Plate run for by Horses, Mares, and Geldings ; won by his Horse on the Curragh of Kildare, the 26th of July, 1710, as by warrant dated the 21st August, 1710, and acquittance appears ... ... ... ... ... £115 0 0
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 11
As the companion tells it
Up ahead, the road takes you near the Curragh in Kildare. From 1696, the Government encouraged horse-breeding in Ireland by offering two Plates of £100 each to be run for annually at the Curragh Races. Records of winners survive in the Record Office from 1696 to 1820. One early entry records payment to John Philips for a Piece of Plate run on the Curragh, as
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Legends of underground passages at Grange Con Castle
near Grange Con · population centre · Wicklow
There are stories current of underground passages leading from the Castle at Grange Con in all directions, though the author disregards these legends as excavations have found none.
Read the passage
The existing ruins of the Castle are not very ancient ; but it certainly is on the site (if it does not form a portion) of the original building — probably coeval with Sir Henry Harrington’s time or circa 1590 — lor in the garden adjoining, and the ground around, have been discovered remains of masonry. Of course, there are all sorts of stories current concerning underground passages from the Castle in all directions; but I always disregard these legends until I find the passages : and so far, although excavations have been made, none have been discovered.
The present ruin consists of three separate portions. The centre would seem to have been the largest; and I think it probable that at one time all three were connected. That on the right hand must have been a kitchen of some sort, for the remains of the brick oven are still visible.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 241
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Prior of Great Connell Abbey routs Irish forces on the Curragh
near The Curragh · locality · Kildare · 1406
According to Marlborough's Chronicle, in 1406 the prior of Great Connell Abbey, leading only twenty English soldiers, put to flight two hundred well-armed Irish forces on the Curragh of Kildare.
Read the passage
In “ Marlborough^s Chronicle it is stated that in the year 1406, the prior of Great Connell Abbey, at the head of only twenty English soldiers, put to flight two hundred well-armed Irish on the Curragh of Kildare. This may be taken cum grano sails .
For the next two or three centuries there is nothing of any importance recorded about the Curragh. This is not surprising, when one remembers that the Curragh was only an extensive common. But, at the same time, it was in the hands of the Crown, which kept a jealous eye on its grazing rights thereon ; and when it leased a manor adjacent to the Curragh to any one of its prominent adherents, a careful mention is made in the grant
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 9
As the companion tells it
As you travel through the Curragh of Kildare, this open plain was the site of a remarkable fight in 1406. According to Marlborough's Chronicle, the prior of Great Connell Abbey led just 20 English soldiers and put to flight 200 well-armed Irish forces here. The chronicler himself suggested this be taken with a grain of salt. For centuries after, nothing of importance was recorded about the Curragh, which was little more than an extensive common, though the Crown kept a jealous eye on its grazing rights.
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Rathmore Castle as key defence against the O'Tooles
Rathmore · townland · Kildare · 1538
Sir William Brabazon wrote in 1538 describing Rathmore as one of the chief keys of defence against the O'Tooles, noting the surrounding country was greatly depopulated. He urged that only an honest, resident man with governing experience be appointed to hold it.
Read the passage
“ Toching the garrison of Rathmore, which Kelway had ; forasmuche as it is one of the chief keys of defence against the Tholes [O’Tooles] , and that the cuntrie is greatly depopulate in thois quarters, we beseeche your good Lordship, that none be appointed therunto, but sooche one as shalbe an honest man, that wolbe resident ther, having some experience to go verne and defende a cuntrie.”
Later on the Council was ordered by the King to put Rathmore in such hands as they consider most fit.1
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 236
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The Swearing Stone at Castledermot churchyard
Castledermot · town · Kildare
A second Kildare holed-stone stands in the churchyard at Castledermot, known locally as the Swearing Stone, used presumably for oath-taking ceremonies in keeping with the covenant traditions of such pierced stones.
Read the passage
In our own county of Kildare we find two such holed-stones, one standing in Laraghbryan churchyard (near Maynooth). It measures 4 ft. 4 in. in height, 2ft. Gin. in breadth ; and the hole is 8 inches in diameter, and 6 inches through the thickness of the stone. This stone is of granite, which, not being the stone of the district, would indicate that it was imported. The second is in the churchyard at Castledermot, and is called “ the Swearing Stone.” It is 2 ft. 6 in. high, 1 ft. 2 in. broad, and 6 in. thick, while the hole is 5 in. in diameter. This stone is also of granite.
Without rashly venturing on any theory whatever, it seems to be noteworthy, when referring to the grafting of this pagan form of monument on the symbol of the Christian faith, that all the practices and superstitions connected with these pierced stones are bearing on covenants, propitiation, healing, and regeneration.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 25
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1488 Boundary of the Pale Defined by Drogheda Parliament
Naas · town · Kildare · 1488
An Act of the Parliament of Drogheda in 1488 traced the bounds of the Pale from Merrion through Saggard, Rathcoole, Kilteel, Rathmore, Ballymore-Eustace, into County Kildare at Ballycutlan, Harristown, and Naas, then to Clane, Kilcock, Athboy, and ending at Dundalk.
Read the passage
The limits of this pale were thus defined at different periods. By an Act of the Parliament of Drogheda in 1488, the bounds were thus traced : “ From Merrion, inclusive, to the water of the Dodder, by the new ditch to Saggard, Rathcoole, Kilhell (Kilteel), Rathmore, and Ballymore (-Eustace). Thence to the County of Kildare into Ballycutlan, Harristown, and Naas ; and so thence to Clane, Kilboyne, and Kilcock. From Iiileock it ran to Athboy, and so ended at Dundalk.” 5
‘Gilbert, “Hist, and Municip. Doc., Ireland,” p. 445.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 178
As the companion tells it
You're passing through Naas, which sits on the line of the Pale. In 1488 an Act of the Parliament of Drogheda traced the bounds of the English-held territory from Merrion through Saggard, Rathcoole, Kilteel, Rathmore, and Ballymore-Eustace, then into County Kildare at Ballycutlan, Harristown, and Naas. From here the boundary continued to Clane, Kilcock, Athboy, and ended at Dundalk. Naas marked where the Pale reached into Kildare before turning north again.
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Austin Cooper's 1782 description of New Abbey ruins
New Abbey · street · Kildare · 1782
Antiquary Austin Cooper described the ruins of New Abbey in his 1782 diary, noting the choir, refectory, and confessional chapel still remained, and a beautiful steeple that had fallen about eighteen years earlier.
Read the passage
“About a mile from Old Kilcullen, near the river Liffey, are the ruins of New Abbey, which has been very much destroyed. At present the choir, refectory, and confessional chapel only remain entire. In the centre formerly stood a beautiful steeple, which fell down about eighteen
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Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun
As the companion tells it
Along here are the ruins of New Abbey, which Austin Cooper described in his 1782 diary as very much destroyed. He noted that the choir, refectory, and confessional chapel still remained entire. A beautiful steeple had once stood in the centre, but it fell down about eighteen years before his visit.
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Ballyshannon Castle site: entrenchment, moat, and Pidgeon-house ruin
Ballyshannon · townland · Kildare
The site of Ballyshannon Castle retains a distinctly visible square entrenchment, though the castle walls themselves have vanished. The centre is now occupied by a ruinous octagonal building called the "Pidgeon-house," and a nearby artificial mound, likely a pagan sepulchral mound, stands close to the old burial-ground.
Read the passage
The centre of the square entrenchment is now occupied by a ruinous octagonal-shaped building of mason-work, in ruins, which is known as the “ Pidgeon-house.”
The outer works shown on the Plan are not now noticeable ; but as the place is thickly planted up with old timber, this helps to hide the lie of the land. The “ Black Castle,” too, has disappeared.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 275
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Clongowes Wood Sold to Jesuits and Opened as College
near Clongoweswood · population centre · Kildare · 1814–1818
In 1818 Clongowes Wood was sold by General Michael Browne to the Jesuit Fathers, and was opened by them as a Catholic College.
Read the passage
The subsequent history of Clongowes Wood is outside the sphere of Archaeology. In 1818 it was sold by General Michael Browne to the Jesuit Fathers, and was by them openedfas a Catholic College in 1814.
The Browne and Wogan Coat-of-Arms over the hall-door of Clongowes Wood College.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 139
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Clonkeehan's Legend of the Blind One's Meadow
Clonkeehan · townland · Louth
The ancient parish of Clonkeehan carries a legend that Brigit prayed to God to make her blind, giving rise to the Irish name meaning 'meadow of the blind one'.
Read the passage
The next place in Louth connected with St. Brigit is the ancient parish (always impropriate) of Clonkeehan, in the parish of Charlestown. The legend here (see Ordnance letter) is that she prayed to God to make her blind. The name in Irish is clu4)rj C40C4J1), “ meadow of the blind one.”
In Dunleer, the legend is that the suitors were many, and she blinded herself, but was healed by praying at a well, called in the Ordnance letters “ Brigit’s Well,” five perches east of the road to Drogheda. The writer of the letter derives the name Dunleer from this circumstance ; and the late Bishop of Down, Dr. Reeves, has shown it to have been lejpe, “ the house of austerity.” The first map will show how these places lay with respect to Faughart and the Abbey at Louth.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 145
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David O'Buge, learned Carmelite born and died in Kildare town
Kildare · town · Kildare · 1320
David O'Buge was born in the town of Kildare and became renowned for his learned lectures and disputations at Oxford and Trier in Germany, being called the gem and lantern of his country. He flourished in 1320 and died at Kildare.
Read the passage
David Obuge, borne in the towne of Kildare, for his learned lectures, and subtile disputations openlie published in Oxford and Trevers in Germanie, he was taken for the gem and lanterne of his countrie.
In his time Giraldus Bononiensis, being Maister Generali of the Carmelits, was at jar with William Lidlington, the provinciall of all the English Carmelites. Wherupon tenne of the wisest and learnedest Carmelits that were then resiant in England, being fullie elected to resist their Generali— Obuge was chosen to be the forman of all the said crew. Giraldus Bononiensis understanding that he being an Irishman, was so hot in the controversie, was egerly bent against Obuge, because he assured himselfe to have had favour at his hands, by reason Obuge was borne in that countrie where the Giraldines his kinsmen were planted ; and thereupon he was banished to Italie.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 213
As the companion tells it
Up ahead is Kildare town, where a Carmelite scholar named David O'Buge was born around the end of the 1200s. He lectured and disputed publicly at Oxford and at Trier in Germany, and people called him the gem and lantern of his country. He flourished in 1320 and died here in Kildare. His learning got him drawn into a quarrel within his own order. Giraldus Bononiensis, Master General of the Carmelites, was feuding with William Lidlington, the provincial of the English Carmelites. Ten of the wisest Carmelites in England were elected to resist their General, and O'Buge was chosen as the foreman of the crew. Giraldus took it badly, because the Giraldines, his kinsmen, were planted in Ireland and he had expected O'Buge's loyalty. So O'Buge was banished to Italy.
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Death of Faelan, King of Leinster, at Aonech-Colmaine
near The Curragh · locality · Kildare · 940
In the year 940, Faelan, son of Muireadhach, King of Leinster, died from a fall while attending the fair at Aonech-Colmaine, an ancient assembly connected with the Curragh.
Read the passage
As at the present day, fatal accidents occasionally occurred at an aonech: thus in the year a.d. 940, “Faelan, son of Muireadhach, King of Leinster, died of a fall at Aonech- Colmaine.” 3
It is stated in “ The Book of Munster,” as preserved in “ The Book of Lecan,” that Fiacha, second son of Daire Cearba, ancestor of the O'Donovans, and King of Munster in the fourth
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 6
As the companion tells it
You are passing near the Curragh, a place long tied to great assemblies. In 940, Faelan, son of Muireadhach, King of Leinster, died of a fall while attending the fair at Aonech-Colmaine, an ancient gathering connected with this ground. Fatal accidents, it seems, occasionally happened at such assemblies even then.
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Earl of Kildare censured for weak Ballymore garrison, 1357
Ballymore Eustace · town · Kildare · 1357
The King severely censured Maurice FitzGerald, Earl of Kildare, for not keeping the garrison of Ballymore strong enough to guard the marches, ordering him to personally ensure five mounted officers, twelve hobelers and forty bowmen were quartered there.
Read the passage
In the following year the King caused Maurice FitzGerald, Earl of Kildare, to be severely censured for not having the garrison of Ballymore of sufficient strength to guard the marches. The Earl was ordered, at his own expense, to at once personally see that five mounted officers, twelve well-armed “ hobelers ” (or horsemen), and forty bowmen fully equipped, were quartered in the place.4 Thirty years later (i.e., 1386) Maurice FitzGerald, Earl of Kildare ; Sir William Y/ellesley, Sheriff of Kildare ; Sir David Wogan, Sir Thomas FitzEustace, and Patrick Flattisbury were appointed to select trusty men to collect a tax, called “ smoke silver,” at the rate of a halfpenny a house where a fire was burned, in the Barony of Ballymore, and to spend the money in defraying the cost of the wards guarding the marches.5
In 1373 Thomas Minot, Archbishop of Dublin, appointed Thomas fitzOliver FitzEustace as Constable of the Castle of Ballymore, with a salary of £10 per annum, provided he should reside there with his family, and govern the tenants without extortion, and guard and maintain the fortress. This was confirmed by King Richard when in Dublin in 1395. 6
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 216
As the companion tells it
Up ahead is Ballymore Eustace, a town whose garrison mattered enough for the King to intervene. In 1357 Maurice FitzGerald, Earl of Kildare, was severely censured for not keeping the garrison strong enough to guard the marches. He was ordered, at his own expense, to personally ensure five mounted officers, twelve well-armed hobelers, and forty bowmen fully equipped were quartered there. In 1373 Thomas Minot, Archbishop of Dublin, appointed Thomas fitzOliver FitzEustace as Constable of the Castle of Ballymore with a salary of £10 per annum, on condition he reside there with his family, govern the tenants without extortion, and guard and maintain the fortress. King Richard confirmed this when in Dublin in 1395. In 1386, Maurice FitzGerald, Sir William Wellesley, Sir David Wogan, Sir Thomas FitzEustace, and Patrick Flattisbury were appointed to collect a tax called smoke silver, halfpenny a house where a fire was burned, in the Barony of Ballymore, to pay for the wards guarding the marches.
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Eustace family forfeits Castle-Barry lands after 1641 Rebellion
Ballymore Eustace · town · Kildare · 1641
At the time of the Rebellion of 1641, Walter fitz Nicholas fitz Edmund Eustace of Elverstown held a castle and sixty acres called Castle-Barry in Ballymore Eustace, along with lands called Talbot's land and Bennet's land, all forfeited when he was outlawed for participation in the Rebellion.
Read the passage
At the time of the Rebellion of 1641, a Richard Bellings was in possession of 200 acres in Bally more ; and Walter fitz Nicholas fitz Edmund Eustace of Elverstown, in the Parish of Tipperkevin, was seised of one castle and sixty acres, called Castle- Barry, in the townland of Ballymore Eustace, as well as of two farms there, called Talbot's land and Bennet's land, which were held of the Archbishop of Dublin. These lands they forfeited, and were outlawed for participation in the Rebellion.1
From this period nothing worthy of note is recorded of Ballymore Eustace. Like most of the other towns in the County Kildare, it suffered greatly during the troubles in ’98 ; several of the houses and the Protestant church were burnt ; and many of the rebels were slain in the streets, as at this time it was garrisoned by detachments of the Tyrone, Antrim, and Armagh Militia, and some yeomanry under the command of a Captain Beevor.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 222
As the companion tells it
Coming up along Ballymore Eustace. At the time of the Rebellion of 1641, Walter fitz Nicholas fitz Edmund Eustace of Elverstown, in the parish of Tipperkevin, held a castle and 60 acres called Castle-Barry here, along with two farms called Talbot's land and Bennet's land. These were held of the Archbishop of Dublin. Richard Bellings was also in possession of 200 acres. Both men were outlawed for joining the rebellion, and all these lands were forfeited.
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First stone labourers' cottages and road built between Prosperous and Donadea
Prosperous · town · Kildare
Sir Gerald Aylmer built the first stone cottages for labourers in his district and made part of the road from Prosperous to Donadea at his own expense, along with the first footpath in the neighbourhood.
Read the passage
Owing to the extravagance of his predecessors, Sir Gerald succeeded to a much-encumbered property. He made it his first duty to free the estate of heavy mortgages, and gave up his commission in the army, that he might live on his property, and devote himself entirely to his duty as a landlord. It may be mentioned that he, in conjunction with the 3rd Duke of Leinster, was mainly responsible for the drainage-works which have done much to reclaim the tracts of land in the Rathangan district of the County Kildare. His interests were entirely centred in his property ; and he built the first stone cottages for labourers in his immediate district, and made part of the road from Prosperous to Donadea at his own expense, and also the first footpath in the neighbourhood. He had a great taste for building, and modernized, not too wisely, much of the house at Donadea. He was also considered a good sportsman. For his last ten years he lived the life of a recluse, and died in 1878, in his eightieth year.
He was succeeded by his only son, Gerald George, the 9th Baronet, born in 1820, who had been educated principally at home and at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. In deference to his father’s wishes, however, he did not take his commission in the regular army, but came back to reside at Donadea, and married, in 1853, Alice Hester Caroline, daughter
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 111
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Forfeiture of Rathmore after Silken Thomas's rebellion
Rathmore · townland · Kildare · 1534–1554
The Manor of Rathmore was forfeited to the Crown following the 1534 rebellion of Silken Thomas, 10th Earl of Kildare, and was not regranted to the family even when Gerald, 11th Earl, was restored to his honours in 1554.
Read the passage
The Manor of Eathmore was forfeited to the Crown by the rebellion of the Silken Thomas, 10th Earl of Kildare, in 1534 ; and it does not appear to have been regranted to the family when Gerald, the 11th Earl, in 1554, was restored to his honours and possessions by Queen Mary.
1 These last-named townlands were held by John Sutton of Tipper, in trust for James FitzGerald, one of the Silken Thomas’s uncles, who forfeited them through rebellion.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 233
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Kilberry church, castle and nunnery ruins
Kilberry · town · Kildare
Kilberry, named for St. Berach or Barry's church, lies a mile and a half west of Killart and contains the ruins of a church, a castle, and a nunnery.
Read the passage
Kilberry (i.e., St. Berach’s or Barry’s Church) lies a mile and a half to the west of Killart, and contains the ruins of a church, a castle, and a nunnery.
“Killart” is the name of an obliterated churchyard in the townland of Old Court. Some years back, a shopkeeper in Athy, named Keating, took the farm on which the churchyard stood. While it was in his possession he dug up this old, disused burialground, and carted off human bones and all, for top-tressing his fields. He had no luck afterwards ; his shop in Athy was twice burned down, and though he was left a large sum of money by a relative, he did not live nine weeks to enjoy it. The two hands he
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 38
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Manannan mac Lir's Undersea Castle at Magilligan
near Tamlaght-ard or Magilligan · parish · Derry
A County Londonderry tradition holds that the mariner Manannan mac Lir now lives in a castle below the waves off Magilligan, opposite Inishowen, and that his magical ship appears there once every seventh year.
Read the passage
1. Manannan mac Lir (i.e., “the son of the sea”), a great navigator, of the Tuatha de Danann colony, who formerly peopled Ireland, made the Isle of Man his principal port, and from him it takes its name. A County of Londonderry tradition relates that this celebrated mariner now lives in a castle below the waves of Magilligan, opposite Inishowen, and that his magical ship is seen there once every seventh year. (“ Annais of the Four Masters,” p. 532, note, vol. lii.)
2. Ivor Gillareagh (“the swarthy youth”) macCathal O’Donovan, of Myross, in the County Cork, who lived in the fourteenth century, was also a famous navigator as well as a' necromancer. It is believed that he is enchanted in a lough called Lough Cluhir, in the townland of Listarkih, County Cork, and that his magical ship, with sails set, and standard flying, is to be seen once in seven years on the Lough. (“ Annals of the Four Masters,” note on p. 353 of vol. iii.)
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 13
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Margaret Stokes buried in St Fintan's churchyard, Howth
Howth · townland · Dublin · 1900
Margaret Stokes died on 20 September 1900 at her home on the Hill of Howth and two days later was buried in the old churchyard of St. Fintan's, a place she cherished as the resting place of relatives she loved.
Read the passage
THE 20th of September, 1900, was a black day in the annals of Celtic Art. On that date, Miss Margaret Stokes passed peacefully away in her picturesque home on the Hill of Howth ; and two days later she was laid to rest in the old churchyard of St. Fintan’s, a spot endeared to her as being the last restingplace of those relatives she loved so well.
Not only will she be mourned by her kinsfolk and friends, but her loss is a national one ; and many European savants will deeply regret that her labours in the cause of Celtic Art have ceased for evermore.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 129
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Monumental Cross of John FitzGerald scattered and reassembled
Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1620–1894
Portions of a memorial cross erected by Ellen Tallon for her husband John FitzGerald were found scattered across several locations including Castledermot churchyard, the Round Tower of Castledermot, Bolton Castle garden, and Kilkea Castle, and were reassembled at Kilkea Castle in 1894.
Read the passage
Fig. Ill was discovered tying inside the Round Tower of Castledermot.
Fig. IV was lying used as a headstone at the west end of Castledermot churchyard. Below the emblems of the Crucifixion is a crowned figure, probably intended for the Blessed Virgin Mary. The upper portion of the opposite side is blank ; but in the lower part is what is intended for the Tallon coat-of-arms, viz. : —
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 287
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Nicholas Wogan of Rathcoffy marries O'Neill heiress
Rathcoffey · townland · Laois · 1716
The 1716 slab at the Wogan monument records the marriage of Nicholas Wogan, then living at Rathcoffy, to Rose, daughter and heiress of Sir Neill O'Neill of Killileagh, County Antrim. This union is commemorated by the combined arms on the memorial slab.
Read the passage
The next slab bears date 1716, nearly a hundred years later ; it contains the arms of Wogan, with those of O’Neill on an escutcheon of pretence, implying that a Wogan had married an O’Neill heiress ; and such was the case, for, at the date of the slab, a Nicholas Wogan was living at Rathcoffy, who had married Bose, daughter and heiress of Sir Neill O’Neill, Bart., of Killileagh, in the Co. Antrim. Lord Walter, to whom I am indebted for the above fact, thus blazons the arms of the two families :
For Wogan : or, on a chief sable, three martlets of the first.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 63
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O'Donoghue Enchanted Beneath Lough Leane, Killarney
near Lough Leane · lake or lakes · Kerry
One of the O'Donoghues of the Lakes, who practised the black art, lies enchanted with his followers in a cave below the waters of Lough Leane at Killarney, and they are seen riding across the lake's waters every May morning.
Read the passage
3. One of the O’Donoghues of the Lakes, who dabbled in the “black art,” and on one occasion showed his power to his wife, was taken from her because she became terrified while he was so doing. He lies enchanted with his followers in a cave below the waters of Lough Leane at Killarney, and they are to be seen every May morning riding across the waters of the Lough.
Plan of the Curragh Camp in 1868.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 13
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Ploopluck near Naas, corrupted from Cloghpook
Ploopluck · townland · Kildare
Ploopluck, near Naas, is according to Joyce's 'Irish Names of Places Explained' a corruption of 'Cloghpook', meaning the Pooka's stone or stone fort.
Read the passage
Many lonesome and wild places in Ireland are associated with and called after the Pooka. In our own county there are anyhow two other instances, one is “ Knockaphooka,” or “ the Pooka’s Hill,” which is a small hill of peculiar shape, just outside of Castledermot ; and the other is “ Ploopluck,” near Naas, which, according to Joyce’s “ Irish Names of Places Explained,” is a very vile corruption of the name “ Cloghpook,” meaning “ the Pooka’s stone or stone fort.”
The River Liffey, for a mile and a half above, and half a mile below, Poul-a-phooka, forms the mearin between this county and the County Wicklow.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 244
As the companion tells it
Somewhere around here is Ploopluck, near Naas. The name, according to Joyce's Irish Names of Places Explained, is a very vile corruption of Cloghpook, meaning the Pooka's stone or stone fort. Many lonesome and wild places in Ireland are called after the Pooka, and this is one of them.
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St Bridget's Cow and the Sacred Pasturage of the Curragh
Kildare · town · Kildare
Tradition holds that the Curragh extended southwards as far as the town of Kildare, and that on the lands between the Curragh and the town St Bridget fed her own cow, these fields being her favourite part of the Curragh.
Read the passage
received the name of “ the Wart Stone.” Judging by analogy, I should suppose this stone to be the pedestal of a cross, which St. Bridget perhaps erected as a limit of her sacred pasturage, for there is no tradition that the Curragh ever extended farther in this direction, while there is a vivid tradition that it extended southwards as far as the town of Kildare, and it is said it was on the lands lying between the Curragh and the town that St. Bridget fed her own cow, and that they were her favourite part of the Curragh. There is, however, no tradition of the person or persons by whom, or period at which, these fields were cut off the sacred pasturage. If the exact ancient limits of the Curragh could be ascertained, it is possible that three other stones of this description would be found in opposite directions.
‘ ‘ These are the only remarkable stones at present to be seen on the Curragh. Proceeding south-eastwards from this stone, one soon meets a rath with a flat mound and a shallow ditch called
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 15
As the companion tells it
As you pass through Kildare, you are travelling along the edge of ground tradition says was St Bridget's favourite part of the Curragh. The old belief is that the Curragh stretched southwards as far as this town, and that on the land lying between the open Curragh and Kildare itself, St Bridget fed her own cow. A stone nearby received the name "the Wart Stone," and by its form it may be the pedestal of a cross that St Bridget perhaps set up to mark the limit of her sacred pasturage. There is no tradition of who cut these fields off from the Curragh, or when it happened. The record notes that if the ancient limits of the Curragh could be fixed, three more stones of the same kind might be found in other directions.
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The self-refilling draw-well at Castle of Inch
Inch · townland · Kildare
A draw-well in the yard of the Castle of Inch was filled in with clay and stones over nearly two weeks of labour, but one morning was found open again, bigger than before.
Read the passage
There is another quare thing about the Castle of Inch. There was a draw-well in the castle yard, and they wanted to fill it up, and they were near a week drawing loads of clay and stones before it was filled up; and then they were drawing loads over it for a week, and one morning they found it was open bigger nor ever it was. [T. Daly, 1900.]
Wells. — I heard of a patthern at Toberara (Well) and at Grlassealy Well (that ’s St. Patrick’s Well ; it has a big asli-tree over it). I often heard tell, but I couldn’t say if it's true, that the water from Glassealy Well, no matter how long you boil it, it won’t boil up. [T. Daly, 1900.]
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 230
As the companion tells it
Somewhere around here at the Castle of Inch there was a draw-well in the castle yard. They wanted to fill it up, and spent near a week drawing loads of clay and stones before it was filled. Then they drew loads over it for another week. But one morning they found it was open again, bigger than ever it was. That account comes from T. Daly in 1900.
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Two castles and Salmon Leap at Leixlip in 1654 survey
Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1640–1654
The Civil Survey of 1654 records two castles at Leixlip, the Black Castle on the Earl of Kildare's lands and a ruined castle on Sir Nicholas White's lands, along with a Salmon Leap, a corn mill, cloth mill, dove-house, and a stone house built for the poor.
Read the passage
“ There is one Salmon Leape neare unto the Castle belonging to Sir Nycholas White aforesaid.
“ There is in Leixlip belonging to Sir Nycholas White aforesaid twenty acres of wood fitt for timber, which is valued to be worth ....
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 295
As the companion tells it
The Civil Survey of 1654 found two castles at Leixlip. The Black Castle stood on the Earl of Kildare's lands. Sir Nicholas White had a castle too, already ruined, with a Salmon Leap nearby, a corn mill, a cloth mill, a dove-house, and a stone house built for the poor.
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1587 Pale Boundary via Oughterard and St. Wolstan's
Oughterard · townland · Kildare · 1587
According to Justice Luttrell in 1587, the Pale extended from Dublin through Tallaght, along the mountain foot to Oughterard, then to St. Wolstan's near Celbridge, Leixlip, and on to Dunboyne and Rathangan, illustrating the shrinking English territory.
Read the passage
In 1587, according to Justice Luttrell, the Pale ran “ from Dublin to Tallaght, and so by the mountain foot into Oughterard, and thence into St. Wolstan’s (near Celbridge), and to Leixlip, and thence to the Barony of Dunboyne, Rathangan, and as the highway extendeth thence into Trim, Athboy, Ardbraccan, Slane, Mellifont, Drogheda — which little precinct is not much above twenty miles in length or breadth.” 2
The above-mentioned places are mostly well known, and by tracing them on the map a vivid idea can be formed of the immense decline of the English power in Ireland from the time of Edward I to that of Henry VIII.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 179
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Ancient meaning and naming of the Curragh
near The Curragh · locality · Kildare · 900–908
The Curragh of Kildare's name is explained by Dr. Joyce as meaning either 'a marshy place' or 'a racecourse'; the Curragh was never actually a marsh despite the etymology. Cormac's Glossary gives further explanations linking the word to cranes (corra) and to chariot contests.
Read the passage
“ ‘ Cuirrech ’ is applied to a sheskin or morass, from the corra, or cranes, which frequent it.
“ ‘ Cuirrech,’ i.e., a curribus, i.e., Jich carpait (in Irish), which means ‘ a contest of chariots.”’
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 5
As the companion tells it
Coming up near the Curragh of Kildare, the name itself has old roots. Cormac's Glossary gives two meanings for the word. One says it was "a sheskin or morass, from the corra, or cranes, which frequent it." The other links it to "a contest of chariots."
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Ashe family owners of Forenaghts pardoned and connected to rebellion
Forenaghts · parish · Kildare · 1575–1586
The Ashe family owned Forenaghts from the late sixteenth century; Lawrence Asshe of Little Forenoght was pardoned in 1575, and William Eustace married into the family but lost his inheritance due to his brother's part in the 1586 rebellion.
Read the passage
According to an Exchequer return for 1802-1307, the Churches of St. Molyng and of the Yill de Fornach were valued at 60s. per annum, of which the tenth, 6s.1 At the end of the sixteenth century, a family of the name of Ash, or Ayshe, some of whom resided at Naas, and were merchants there, appear as owners of Forenaghts. In 1575 a Lawrence Asshe, of Little Forenoght, was pardoned (Elizabeth, Fiant, No. 2,574); in 1608 Edward Ayshe, of Furnaghts, appears as one of the Jurors for the County Kildare, and in the same year one Nicholas Ashe is stated to be the Provost of the town of Naas (Cal. Carew MSS., James I, p. 24). William Eustace, brother and heir to Lord Baltinglass, married Margaret, daughter of Ashe, of Great Furnaghts, but did not succeed to the title or lands of his brother, as they were forfeited for his brother’s participation in the rebellion in 1586. I cannot trace any connection between this family of Ashe and that of Ashe, of Moone, in this county, referred to in a former volume of this Journal (vol. i, pp. 40 and 150), nor, again, between them and the Ashes, of Ashfield, County Meath, who at various times from 1585 were M.P.s for Trim (see “Dictionary of National Biography,” sub tit. “Ashe,” and Burke’s “ Commoners of Great Britain and Ireland,” edition of 1884, vol. iii, p. 578). In 1698 one Thomas Ashe appears as a grantee of lands in Kildare from King William and Mary; and in 1701 Thomas Ashe appears to have his lands in Kildare restored to him as an Innocent (“Hardinge Surveys, 1688-1864,” pp. 28-32), query , Ashe of Moone ? John Lattin, of Naas, who died circa 1600, married Alson Ash, sister of Bobert Ash, of Naas, and from them by this marriage are descended the family of Mansfield, of Morristown Lattin,2 who, I believe, still hold lands belonging to the Ash family in the neighbourhood of Johnstown Inn.
It will thus be seen that the Ashes, Eustaces, and Lattins were connected by marriage, and that in troublous times. This fact may seem to explain the real meaning of some dealings with the Furness property which I shall refer to later on.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 280
As the companion tells it
As you pass through the parish of Forenaghts in Kildare, you're travelling through land that belonged to the Ashe family from the late sixteenth century. Some of them lived as merchants in Naas, but their roots were here. In 1575 a Lawrence Asshe of Little Forenoght received a pardon under Queen Elizabeth, a sign of how unsettled those years were. The family's troubles continued through marriage. William Eustace, brother and heir to Lord Baltinglass, married Margaret, daughter of Ashe of Great Furnaghts, but never inherited his brother's title or lands. They were forfeited because his brother took part in the rebellion of 1586. The Ashes, Eustaces, and Lattins of Naas were all connected by marriage, and the record notes these bonds were forged in what it calls "troublous times."
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Clongowes Wood Castle on the Pale Border
near Clongoweswood · population centre · Kildare · 1538–1600
The Eustace castle at Clongowes Wood was situated close to the rampart of the Pale, forming one link in a chain of border strongholds stretching from Maynooth to Blackhall near Clane, running parallel to the Liffey southwards to Harristown.
Read the passage
Their castle, situated close to the rampart of the Pale, was one of the links in the long chain of border strongholds stretching from Maynooth to Blackhall, near Clane, and running parallel to the Liffey, southwards to Harristown. But though nominally posted on the frontier line to repel and overawe the “ Wilde Irishe ” beyond it, the Eustaces of Mainham soon became connected by marriage with families of the native race.
1 “Hibernia Dom.,” loc. cit., and Harris.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 136
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Demolished Piper's Stones circle in Blessington Deerpark
Blessington · town · Wicklow
Another stone circle, also called 'The Piper's Stones', once stood in the Deerpark near Blessington but was entirely demolished years ago for building purposes.
Read the passage
Commons, called “ The Piper’s Stones.” They are now 29 in number, and originally formed a complete circle of closely placed boulders, though now there are large gaps in the ring, showing where, in times past, many have been broken up and carted off for building purposes. At a place called Athgraney there is a similar circle of stones ; and in the Deerpark near Blessington was another, both also called “ The Piper’s Stones;” but this last was entirely demolished years ago for building purposes. Though these stone circles are by some thought to be connected with Druidical worship, they are probably sepulchral monuments ; though they may have answered both purposes.
The name of “Piper’s Stones,” so often applied to this class of monument, must have had its origin in some now forgotten legend. The only explanation the old people give for the name is that Bag-pipe music, played by the “ good people,” or fairies, is still occasionally heard at the spot.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 223
As the companion tells it
As the road brings you through Blessington, a stone circle once stood in the Deerpark near the town, called the Piper's Stones. It was entirely demolished years ago, broken up and carted off for building purposes. Two other circles bore the same name, one at Commons and one at Athgraney. Some think these circles are connected with Druidical worship, though they are probably sepulchral monuments, and may have answered both purposes. The name must have had its origin in some now forgotten legend. The only explanation the old people give is that bagpipe music, played by the fairies, is still occasionally heard at the spot.
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Description of the plan and outworks of Ballyshannon Castle in 1650
Ballyshannon · townland · Kildare · 1650
A detailed 1650 plan of the Fort of Ballisanon in Leinster shows the Black Castle, the outworks, gates, a high fortified mount that was stormed, the church, moats, drawbridges, and ramparts thirty feet thick, illustrating the scale of its defences.
Read the passage
X. The Rampire and Parapett 30 foot thicke and in some places 25 foot high.
O. The inner Moate in some places 40 foot broad.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 273
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Earl of Kildare seizes Ballymore lands from Archbishop in 1484
Ballymore Eustace · town · Kildare · 1484
On the resignation of Archbishop John Walton in 1484, Gerald 'more', 8th Earl of Kildare, forcibly entered and took possession of twenty-four townlands in the lordships of Ballymore and Castlekevin belonging to the See, holding them until his death.
Read the passage
On the resignation of John Walton, Archbishop of Dublin, in 1484, Gerald “ more,” the 8th Earl of Kildare, then Lord Deputy, forcibly entered into and took possession of twenty-four townlands in the lordships of Ballymore and Castlekevin belonging to the See, and held them to the time of his death. After
O J
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 219
As the companion tells it
As you pass through Ballymore Eustace, this town was at the centre of a land grab in 1484. When Archbishop John Walton resigned that year, Gerald "more," the 8th Earl of Kildare and Lord Deputy, forcibly took possession of twenty-four townlands here in the lordships of Ballymore and Castlekevin, lands belonging to the See of Dublin. He held them until his death.
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FitzEustaces found Dominican priory of Naas in 1356
Naas · town · Kildare · 1356
The Dominican priory of Naas was founded by the FitzEustace family in 1356, who dedicated the church to St. Eustachius in order to assert their claimed descent from the Roman martyr St. Eustace.
Read the passage
The Dominican priory of Naas was founded by the Fitz- Eustaces in 1356 ; and they indicated their claim to this high ancestry by dedicating the Church to St. Eustachius.3 From this it would appear that from the fourteenth to the eighteenth century they looked back to the Boman martyr as the founder of their line.
It is but fair, however, to record other views on this subject. The author of the “Book of Howth,”4in a list of noble English families settled in Ireland, wrote as follows : — “ Eustace, alias Powar, Viscount of Baltinglass, Lord of Kilcullen, to him and to his heirs male A0 H. 8 33° (33rd year of Hen. VIII). Their ancestor, Robert Le Poivar, was sent into Ireland with commission, and in his offspring hath rested here, a.d. 1176.” Again, under date of 1303 : “ Bichard Bourke, Earl of Ulster, and Lord Eustace Le Poiver, entered into Scotland with a great
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 133
As the companion tells it
Up ahead is Naas, a town in Kildare with a Dominican priory in its past. The FitzEustace family founded that priory in 1356 and dedicated its church to St. Eustachius, the Roman martyr, to back up their claim that he was the founder of their line. From the 14th century right through to the 18th, they seem to have held to that descent. The Book of Howth, though, tells it differently, saying their ancestor was one Robert Le Poivar, sent into Ireland with commission in 1176. The same source records that in 1303 Lord Eustace Le Poiver entered Scotland with Richard Bourke, Earl of Ulster, at the head of a great force.
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FitzGeralds of Castleroe Outlawed After 1641 Rebellion
Castleroe · townland · Derry · 1641
After the outbreak of the rebellion of 1641 the FitzGeralds of Castleroe disappear from the record, having been outlawed for their participation and forced to leave the country.
Read the passage
After the outbreak of the rebellion of 1641, the FitzGeralds of Castleroe disappear. On being outlawed for participation in it, they must have left the country.
The next tenant of the place was an officer in the service of the Government, a Major Thomas Harman, third son of Henry Harman, of Dublin. In 1651 Thomas Harman obtained a lease from Joan, Countess of Kildare, of Milettstown, near Naas, at a
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 156
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Grange Con and Baltinglass Abbey lands granted to Thomas Eustace
near Grange Con · population centre · Wicklow · 1541
Grange Con, Ballynure, and nearly the entire parish of Baltinglass belonged to the great Abbey of Baltinglass, the ruins of which may still be seen. After the dissolution, Thomas Eustace was created Viscount Baltinglass in 1541 and granted the abbey site and its lands, including Grangecon.
Read the passage
and to mean “ The Grange or Granary of the Hound ” — “ Con 33 in Irish being the genitive case of Cu. Grange Con, and Ballynure, and nearly the entire parish of Baltinglass, belonged to the great Abbey of Baltinglass, the ruins of which may still be seen.
After the dissolution of the Abbey, Thomas Eustace, Lord of Kilcullen, was in 1541 created Viscount Baltinglass, and granted the site of the Abbey and lands of Baltinglass, Grangegodley, Kylmoreth (Kilmoory), Sheltoneston (Haltoneston or Ballyhalton), Sleorath (Slerothie), Newgrange, Cargyn (Cargin), Taghnewran (Teighnoran), Rayhen (Raughen), Branaughton, Newton, Killemanaghe (Mounkeswood), the chapel and grange of Newhouse (Ballynure), the castle and grange of Grangcon, Crockurrike (Knockoricke or Knockarrig), Baronston (Boraneston), Gryffynston (Balligriffen), Rodton (Readetowne), Rathbrene (Rathbran), Ballehoke (Hokiston), Newheise (Neweheyes), Tuckmyll, Milleston, and Mangertorlaght (Manger Tirrelaghe). These possessions were forfeited by James, the 3rd Viscount’s, rebellion
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 239
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Monastery of Louth and Brigit's Journeys
Louth · town · Louth
The Monastery of Louth, only a mile from Faughart, was presided over by Mochta, friend of St. Patrick, and it is supposed Brigit took the Abbey of Louth in her journeys to and from Kildare, explaining the traditions fixed at Clonkeehan and Dunleer.
Read the passage
Abbot, Lugadius, son of Oengus, King of Munster, was then alive, a young girl may naturally have shrunk from consulting one so superior in station. The Monastery of Louth, only a mile further off, was within easy distance of Faughart. The name of Mochta, who then presided over it, is nowThere mentioned in any of the Lives ; but he was the friend of St. Patrick ; and it is natural to suppose that his counsel was asked and obtained, and that Brigit took the Abbey of Louth in her journeys to and from Kildare. From thence both Clonkeehan andDunleer were on the direct road, and hence the traditions that have fixed themselves at those places.1 * *
The next step in Brigit’s life was the formal dedication of herself to the service of God. The ceremony, called in later years “ taking the veil,” was performed, according to the third Life, by Bishop Mel ; but this is disputed by Dr. Lanigan, who says it was done by MacCaille, of Uisnech (Usney, in Westmeath). “ The Liber Hymnorum *’ joins the two, saying that Bishop MacCaille guided her and seven nuns, her companions, over the Bog of Faichnech ; and that when they drew nigh to Mel’s abode, Brigit desired him to place a caille (veil) over her head before she entered into Mel’s presence. Also, that MacCaille introduced her — “ This is the famous nun out of Leinster, even Brigit.” So the orders were read out by Bishop Mel ; and it is further related by the same authority that the Bishop conferred on her episcopal orders, instead of the 4 4 order of repentance.” The explanation of this, as a mistake occasioned by inebriation (Rawlinson, quoted p. 328, Stokes), is hardly wTorth notice were it not for the sake of showing how apt writers of that age were to rush to a conclusion.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 146
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Old Toll-Free Pedlar's Road Outside Athy Borough Bounds
Athy · town · Kildare
A road near Athy connecting the Carlow road with the Castledermot road at Bray Old Pond is called Boher-na-worragah, or the road of the Pedlars, because in the days when Athy was a Corporation, vendors sold their wares along this route without paying toll since it lay just outside the bounds of the Borough.
Read the passage
About a mile from the town, a public road connects the Carlow road with the Castledermot road at Bray Old Pond. This is named Boher-na-worragah, or “ the road of the Pedlars,” because, I was informed, in the old days, when Athy was a Corporation, vendors of goods sold their wares along this road without paying a toll, as it was just outside the bounds of the Borough.
(б) Near Dunmanoge. Dunmanoge lies half way between Kilkea Castle and the town of Carlow. The name of this place is a good instance of how impossible it is to arrive at a correct derivation and meaning of a place-name without knowing its original form, so distorted and corrupted by the English tongue have very many Irish names become. The original of Dunmanoge was “ Moghna-Moshenoc.” In 1552 this had changed to “ Donahe-
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 166
As the companion tells it
As you pass through Athy, about a mile from the town, a road runs from the Carlow road to the Castledermot road at Bray Old Pond. It's called Boher-na-worragah, the road of the Pedlars. In the old days, when Athy was a Corporation, vendors sold their goods along this road without paying toll, because it lay just outside the bounds of the Borough.
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Prior FitzGerald ejected from Kilmainham office
Kilmainham · townland · Dublin · 1447
Prior FitzGerald was removed from his office at Kilmainham by Friar Hugh Middleton, Visitor-General of the Hospitallers, for dilapidations blamed on his avarice. His successor accused him of breaking open the seal box and affixing it to illegal grants.
Read the passage
“ Prior FitzGerald was soon afterwards ejected from his office at Kilmainham by Friar Hugh Middleton, the Visitor-General of the Hospitallers, for dilapidations ascribed to his avarice. FitzGerald’s successor (Friar Thomas Talbot) represented to Parliament that when deposed (in 1447) Prior FitzGerald had broken open the box containing the Hospital seal, which he carried off and affixed to many illegal grants, which were consequently annulled.”
From this time no further mention is made of Prior Thomas FitzGerald, and the date of his death is unknown.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 211
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Rathmore Moat threatened by gravel-pit destruction
Rathmore · townland · Kildare
The Society had tried to prevent further demolition of the fine moat at Rathmore, which had been used for years as a gravel-pit, with the County Surveyor stating he was powerless to stop the destruction unless an alternative pit was opened.
Read the passage
Attention was drawn to the fact that the Society had made efforts to prevent the further demolition of this fine moat by reason of its being used for some years as a gravel-pit, and that the County Surveyor had informed the Society that he was powerless to prevent the course of destruction unless another gravel-pit, convenient for the road contractor’s work, was allowed to he opened. Segrave’s Castle, close by, was pointed out, and then the company descended, glad to escape the cold winds at such an elevation.
Another drive of some four miles brought the party to Punchestown Racecourse, where a luncheon w7as prepared in the Stand-house, kindly placed at the service of the Society by the Kildare Hunt Club.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 252
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Relics from the Battle of the Boyne site near Drogheda
near River Boyne · river · Kildare · 1690
A stirrup, spurs and other items were taken from the Boyne near Drogheda, at the site adjacent to where Prince William of Orange crossed during the Battle of the Boyne.
Read the passage
No. 8. 1 stirrup, 8 spurs, and 2 other articles, taken from the Boyne near Drogheda many years since, adjacent to the place where Prince William of Orange crossed ; got from Quirk ; iron and brass. Number of articles, 6. These were all found at the site of the Battle of the Boyne. There is no photograph of them.
No. 9. A number of spears and axe-heads ; also knives and part of a gun ; all iron. Number of articles, 48.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 206
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Seals of the Corporation of Athy
Athy · town · Kildare · 1738–1875
The ancient seal of the Corporation of Athy, used before 1738, depicted a tower on a bridge with the FitzGerald flag flying, and bore the arms of the Earl of Kildare and of the Fieldings, Earls of Denbigh, proprietors of the Manor of St. John's on the Queen's County side of the Barrow.
Read the passage
The brass matrix of this seal is also at Carton ; it was presented to the Duke of Leinster by the Town Commissioners in 1875. As shown in Fig. 1, a tower is placed on what is meant for a bridge, at each end of which the FitzGerald flag flies. The dexter shield bears the Earl of Kildare’s arms, and the sinister shield those of the Fieldings, Earls of Denbigh (viz. — argent, on a fesse azure, three lozenges or) who were the proprietors of the Manor of St. John’s, on the right, or Queen’s County, side of the Barrow.
W. FitzG.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 246
As the companion tells it
As you pass through Athy, the town once had a corporation seal older than 1738. Its brass matrix survives at Carton, given to the Duke of Leinster by the Town Commissioners in 1875. The seal shows a tower on a bridge, with the FitzGerald flag flying at each end. One shield bears the Earl of Kildare's arms, the other those of the Fieldings, Earls of Denbigh, who were the proprietors of the Manor of St. John's on the Queen's County side of the Barrow.
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Sherlock coat-of-arms stone moved from Sherlockstown
Sherlockstown · townland · Kildare
A carved limestone block bearing the Sherlock coat-of-arms, built upside-down into farm stables near Sallins railway station, was said to have been brought from Sherlockstown by a former occupant named Doyle.
Read the passage
A Sherlock Coat-of-Arms Stone. — Opposite to the junction of the Osberstown Road with the one from Naas to Sallins, and close to the latter railway station, is a thatched farmhouse (now in the possession of a man named Kealy), into the stables of which is built, upside down, a block of limestone measuring some 18 X 12 inches, on which is carved, in high relief, a shield bearing the Sherlock coat-of-arms (three fieurs-de-lys), impaling on the sinister side a coat resembling “on a chief, a spur.” Elaborat emantling falls to either side of the shield, above which is a helmet, and over that again was a crest, now chiselled off (apparently intentionally). No date or initials are visible. A former occupant of the place, named Doyle, is said, years ago, to have brought this stone from Sherlockstown to its present restingplace.
Can anyone of our Members identify the unknown coat-of-arms ?
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 213
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Sherlockstown font mirrors Gower's Oxwich Church font
Sherlockstown · townland · Kildare · 1236–1300
An ancient rude stone font preserved at Sherlockstown closely resembles the font at Oxwich Church in Gower, both featuring iron rivets for a lockable cover as required by 1236 Church constitution.
Read the passage
into the stone, for the cover and lock, required by the Constitution of Edward, Archbishop of Canterbury, in 1236. There is in Oxwich Church, in Gower, an ancient font of this kind. Comparing a drawing of this with one of the old font still preserved at Sherlockstown, it is plain how similar in character they were — (1) in their extreme rudeness ; (2) in not being lined with lead ; (8) in standing on the ground, or, at most, on a low pedestal ; (4) in each having had a cover and lock.
A further curious correspondence may be found in the fact that the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem had considerable interests both in Gower and in Kildare. They are said to have held at one time nearly all the churches in Gower, and a considerable portion of the land. I cannot say what possessions they held over here. But Sherlockstown Church once belonged to the Order, and they had commanderies at Killibegs and at Kilteel.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 189
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Sir Thomas Harman Buried in Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral · ecclesiastical site · Dublin · 1667
Sir Thomas Harman of Castleroe, knighted in 1664 and formerly M.P. for Carlow and Kildare Borough, died on 11 December 1667 and was buried in Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin.
Read the passage
philus Jones, Knt., by his wife Alice, daughter of Arthur Usher), and secondly to William Moreton, d.d., Bishop of Meath. Sir Thomas Harman died on the 11th December, 1667, and was buried in Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. He was succeeded at Castleroe by his son Wentworth, who was a captain in the Battle Axe Guards. Wentworth was twice married: first, to Margaret, daughter of Garrett Wellesley, of Dangan, County Meath ; and second, to Frances, sister and heir of Anthony Sheppard, of Newcastle, County Longford, by both of whom he had issue. Wentworth Harman 1 died on the 3rd of May, 1714 ; and his sons do not appear to have continued on at Castleroe, as at this time a family of the name of McRoberts held it on lease.
This family of McRoberts, buried in the neighbouring Churchyard of Dunmanoge.2
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 157
As the companion tells it
Right here at Christ Church Cathedral, Sir Thomas Harman was buried after his death on the 11th of December, 1667. He had been knighted in 1664 and had served as M.P. for Carlow and Kildough Borough. He was succeeded at Castleroe by his son Wentworth, a captain in the Battle Axe Guards. Wentworth married twice, first to Margaret, daughter of Garrett Wellesley of Dangan, County Meath, and second to Frances, sister and heir of Anthony Sheppard of Newcastle, County Longford. He had issue by both wives. Wentworth Harman died on the 3rd of May, 1714, and his sons do not appear to have stayed on at Castleroe, as by that time a family called McRoberts held it on lease. That McRoberts family was buried in the neighbouring churchyard of Dunmanoge.
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Sir Thomas Wogan's defeat invading O'Tooles and O'Byrnes country
near Glenmalur · valley · Wicklow · 1308–1309
Sir Thomas Wogan, having succeeded his father as Viceroy in 1308, led the king's troops to invade the O'Tooles' and O'Byrnes' country but was driven back with great slaughter.
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Sir Thomas was not as successful as his father. He set out at the head of the king’s troops to invade the O’Tooles’ and O’Byrnes’ country, but was driven back with great slaughter.
In the same year another John Wogan was Viceroy, and suffered an equally disgraceful defeat in Glenmalure.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 51
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Stanton family's Jacobite War iron pot from Edenderry
Edenderry · town · Offaly · 1689–1691
An iron pot belonging to the Stanton family, blacksmiths and farriers who served in James II's army and followed his campaign to Londonderry, was preserved by descendants who returned to live in Edenderry.
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sweet sound like a dinner-gong. It is given on its edge as in photo. Fig. 2 is the bronze pot over 12 inches in width and height. It was found at the edge of the River Boyne, at the old bridge of Kinnefad, by a naan cutting sedge. He thought it was gold, it had such a bright colour. Fig. 3 is the large bronze pot first mentioned in the catalogue. It was found in the bog of Coolcarrigan, near Robertstown. Figs. 4, 5, and 6 are iron pots not mentioned in the catalogue. Fig. 4 is a pot with a history. It belonged to a family named Stanton, who were blacksmiths, in the time of James II, and who worked as farriers in his army, following his fortunes as far as Londonderry. After the war they returned to Edenderry, where some of their descendants are living at the present day. This iron pot accompanied them through the campaign. Fig. 5 pot is rimless, and Fig. 6 is the oldest type of the iron pot, and seems to mark the transition from the bronze shape. The ^Coolcarrigan pot was a well-finished piece of workmanship, and appeared to have been very little used.
On the wall — 4 enormous deer-skulls, with brow antlers and other palmated portions, circumference under antlers, 18 inches ; 25 of the old red deer-heads, 20 or 30 swords of different periods, the bust of the Duke of Wellington when a young man, and one of Tom Moore, the poet, by Kirke ; ancient Irish boar’s skull, present Berkshire boar’s skull, ancient Irish ox skull, modern ox skull,
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 209
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Stone house for the poor at Leixlip with no fixed maintenance
Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1640–1654
The Civil Survey records a little stone house at Leixlip which was built for the poor, but with no maintenance allowed other than the charity of the neighbours, indicating informal poor relief in the town.
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“ There is one Little Stone House in Leixlip aforesaid, which was built for the Poore, butt noe other maintenance allowed than the charity of the neighbours.
0 O ^
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 295
As the companion tells it
As you pass through Leixlip, the Civil Survey of the 1640s noted one little stone house here, built for the poor. It had no fixed maintenance allowed, relying only on what the neighbours chose to give by way of charity. So poor relief in this town rested on informal goodwill rather than any formal provision.
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Suppression of New Abbey of Kilcullen
New Abbey · street · Kildare · 1539
A County Kildare Exchequer Inquisition records that the Grey Friars' New Abbey monastery, founded time out of memory, was suppressed on 30th April 1539. The inquisition describes ruined church walls, belfry, dormitory, hall, and other buildings within its precincts.
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“ That the said monastery contains within its precincts the walls of a church, a belfry, a dormitory, a hall {aula), two rooms, and a kitchen, which are in ruins ; a burial-ground ; an orchard ; a garden ; a small paddock for pasture, containing eight acres, all of which the late Prior was seised of in fee in right of his monastery, previous to the said 30th of April.”
In course of time the site of this Abbey was leased to various persons, generally for twenty-one years, on the condition of not alienating any portion except to men of English name and nation.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 199
As the companion tells it
On this street stood the Grey Friars' New Abbey, founded time out of memory and suppressed on the 30th of April 1539. A County Kildare Exchequer Inquisition recorded its precincts as already in ruins: the walls of a church, a belfry, a dormitory, a hall, two rooms, and a kitchen, along with a burial-ground, an orchard, a garden, and an eight-acre paddock for pasture. In time the site was leased to various persons, generally for twenty-one years, on condition of not alienating any portion except to men of English name and nation.
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The holed-stone at Laraghbryan churchyard
Laraghbryan · parish · Kildare
A granite holed-stone stands in Laraghbryan churchyard near Maynooth, measuring 4ft 4in high with an 8-inch diameter hole. Since granite is not local stone, it is believed the stone was imported to the site.
Read the passage
In our own county of Kildare we find two such holed-stones, one standing in Laraghbryan churchyard (near Maynooth). It measures 4 ft. 4 in. in height, 2ft. Gin. in breadth ; and the hole is 8 inches in diameter, and 6 inches through the thickness of the stone. This stone is of granite, which, not being the stone of the district, would indicate that it was imported. The second is in the churchyard at Castledermot, and is called “ the Swearing Stone.” It is 2 ft. 6 in. high, 1 ft. 2 in. broad, and 6 in. thick, while the hole is 5 in. in diameter. This stone is also of granite.
Without rashly venturing on any theory whatever, it seems to be noteworthy, when referring to the grafting of this pagan form of monument on the symbol of the Christian faith, that all the practices and superstitions connected with these pierced stones are bearing on covenants, propitiation, healing, and regeneration.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 25
As the companion tells it
Up ahead through Laraghbryan, near Maynooth, there's a churchyard with a granite holed-stone standing in it. It stands 4 feet 4 inches high, with a hole 8 inches across running 6 inches through the stone. Granite is not native to this district, so the stone was brought here from somewhere else. The old practices tied to pierced stones like this one all centred on covenants, propitiation, healing, and regeneration.
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Whelan's hidden Hebrew signature at Killelan Churchyard
Killelan · townland · Kildare
On a coffin-resting slab built into the boundary wall of Killelan Churchyard, hieroglyphic-looking marks were found which John Whelan explained to the author were his own name cut in Hebrew letters, supplied to him by a professor at his request. The author warns these marks might be mistaken for genuine ancient Irish inscriptions by the ignorant.
Read the passage
1 For instance, on the slab for resting the coffin in the boundary wall (there is no gateway) of the Killelan Churchyard, are cut some hieroglyphics, which I ascertained from John Whelan, “the poet,” were cut by him, and represent his name in Hebrew letters ; some professor at his request had supplied him with the information. As Whelan may have cut his name in like manner in other localities, and as they may be mistaken for Irish by the ignorant, I annex a rubbing of these hireoglyphics.
6o
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun
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Drainage works reclaiming land in the Rathangan district
Rathangan · townland · Kildare
Sir Gerald Aylmer, 8th Baronet, in conjunction with the 3rd Duke of Leinster, was mainly responsible for drainage works that reclaimed tracts of land in the Rathangan district of County Kildare.
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Owing to the extravagance of his predecessors, Sir Gerald succeeded to a much-encumbered property. He made it his first duty to free the estate of heavy mortgages, and gave up his commission in the army, that he might live on his property, and devote himself entirely to his duty as a landlord. It may be mentioned that he, in conjunction with the 3rd Duke of Leinster, was mainly responsible for the drainage-works which have done much to reclaim the tracts of land in the Rathangan district of the County Kildare. His interests were entirely centred in his property ; and he built the first stone cottages for labourers in his immediate district, and made part of the road from Prosperous to Donadea at his own expense, and also the first footpath in the neighbourhood. He had a great taste for building, and modernized, not too wisely, much of the house at Donadea. He was also considered a good sportsman. For his last ten years he lived the life of a recluse, and died in 1878, in his eightieth year.
He was succeeded by his only son, Gerald George, the 9th Baronet, born in 1820, who had been educated principally at home and at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. In deference to his father’s wishes, however, he did not take his commission in the regular army, but came back to reside at Donadea, and married, in 1853, Alice Hester Caroline, daughter
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 111
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Stone face said to come from the Black Moor inn near Ballyshannon
Ballyshannon · townland · Kildare
A small human face carved in stone is built into the wall over the hall-door of the Ballyshannon house, said to have been brought from a now-vanished inn called "the Black Moor" that stood on the nearby public road.
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Over the hall-door of the house a small human face in stone is built into the wall. It is said to have been brought from an inn, not now in existence, that stood on the public road close by, called “the Black Moor. ”
1 The initials here remind one of those on the FitzGerald of Narraghbeg cross-shaft ( vide pp. 474-478 of this Volume), viz. : mah: o . mo. ; the year on both being the very same.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 275
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1515 Pale Border Through Kildare Towns
Kilcullen · town · Kildare · 1515
In 1515 the border of the Pale ran through a chain of towns including Kells, Kilcock, Naas, Kilcullen-bridge, Ballymore-Eustace, Rathmore, Rathcoole, and Tallaght, marking the diminished extent of English control.
Read the passage
In 1515 the border ran from Dundalk through Derver, Ardee, Syddan, Kells, Dangan, Kilcock, Naas, Kilcullen-bridge, Ballymore-Eustace, Rathmore, Rathcoole, Tallaght, to Dalkey.1
In 1587, according to Justice Luttrell, the Pale ran “ from Dublin to Tallaght, and so by the mountain foot into Oughterard, and thence into St. Wolstan’s (near Celbridge), and to Leixlip, and thence to the Barony of Dunboyne, Rathangan, and as the highway extendeth thence into Trim, Athboy, Ardbraccan, Slane, Mellifont, Drogheda — which little precinct is not much above twenty miles in length or breadth.” 2
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 179
As the companion tells it
You're coming through Kilcullen now. Back in 1515 this was a border town, one link in a chain that marked the edge of English control in Ireland. The Pale ran from Dundalk through a string of places including Kells, Kilcock, Naas, Kilcullen-bridge, Ballymore-Eustace, Rathmore, Rathcoole, and Tallaght, down to Dalkey. By 1587 Justice Luttrell described the Pale as
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O'Toole raids Ballymore cattle in 1419
Ballymore Eustace · town · Kildare · 1419
According to Henry Marleburrough's Chronicle, O'Toole took 400 cows belonging to Ballymore, breaking the peace contrary to his oath.
Read the passage
In 1419, according to Henry Marleburrough’s “ Chronicle,” O’Toole took 400 cows belonging to Balimore, breaking the peace, contrary to his oath.
At a chapter held at St. Patrick’s Cathedral by Michael Tregury, Archbishop of Dublin, John Alen, the Dean (afterwards Archbishop), reported that, owing to the unsettled state of the Irish septs in the County Wicklow, he had been unable in 1468 to visit the Prebends of Tipperkevin, Tipper, Ballymore, Dunlavan, Yago, Donoughmore in Imaal, Stagonil, and Monahemock (i.e., Dunmanoge, near Maganey), as they all lay near the Irish enemy.2
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 219
As the companion tells it
You are coming through Ballymore Eustace. Back in 1419, according to Henry Marleburrough's Chronicle, O'Toole took 400 cows belonging to Ballymore, breaking the peace contrary to his oath. Later, in 1468, John Alen, the Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral, told a chapter held by Archbishop Michael Tregury that he had been unable to visit the prebends here and across the Wicklow border, because they all lay near the Irish enemy and the septs were unsettled.
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Portion of old Castle of Geashill still standing
Geashill · town · Offaly
The text notes that part of the old Castle of Geashill, site of the 1642 siege, still survives as a ruin, and links the O'Dempsey family's later decline to peasant status in Ireland.
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Burke adds:— “Dr. O’Donovan (‘Annals of the Four Masters’) states that the O’Dempseys have fallen altogether from their high estate, and can now only be traced among the farmers and peasantry of Ireland.” A portion of the old Castle of Geashill still exists.
Lord Walter FitzGerald, in his Paper in Vol. i of The Journal, on “ The Ancient Territories out of which the present County Kildare was formed,” under the title of Offaly, states that it comprises the present Baronies of East and West Offaly, in the County Kildare ; those of Upper and Lower Philipstown, Geashill, Warrenstown, and Coolestown, in the King’s County ; Portnahinch and Tinnahinch, in the Queen’s County.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 261
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Bohereen-na-goor: the old road and the custom of circling the Curragh
Kildare · town · Kildare
A stretch of old road on the north side of Kildare town, called Bohereen-na-goor, or 'the little road of the turns', is said to derive its name from an ancient custom requiring any celebrated stranger visiting the Curragh to perform a circuit round it.
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There is a portion of an old road still in use at the northern side of the town of Kildare, called “ Bohereen-na-goor,” or the little roads of the turns or circuits — a name derived, according to Mr. Hennessy, from an ancient custom which necessitated any celebrated stranger visiting the Curragli to perform “ a cor ” or circuit round it.1
In the last century the Curragh must have been a favourite place for coursing hares, as, for their protection, there were formerly three hare-parks on it. One is now the Rathbride fox covert ; the Camp Hospital is built where the second one was ; and the third was at the Ballysax end of the Curragh. Their sites are marked on the 1887 six-inch Ordnance Survey Maps.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 17
As the companion tells it
Coming through Kildare, you pass near a stretch of old road on the north side of town called Bohereen-na-goor, meaning the little road of the turns or circuits. According to Mr. Hennessy, the name comes from an old custom requiring any celebrated stranger visiting the Curragh to perform a circuit round it. In the last century the Curragh was a favourite place for coursing hares, and three hare-parks were kept there for their protection. One is now the Rathbride fox covert, the Camp Hospital stands where the second one was, and the third was at the Ballysax end. Their sites are marked on the 1887 six-inch Ordnance Survey maps.
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Conolly Monument at Celbridge
Celbridge · town · Kildare · 1700–1799
At Celbridge the Dublin excursion party viewed the handsome eighteenth-century Conolly Monument, with an interesting discourse on the monument and the Conolly family given by the Rector, Rev. C. I. Graham.
Read the passage
As the Dublin contingent arrived earlier than the rest, Lord Walter FitzGerald conducted that party to Celbridge, where an opportunity was afforded them of seeing the handsome eighteenthcentury Conolly Monument, and listening to an interesting discourse on the monument, and the Conolly family, by Rev. C. I. Graham, Rector of Celbridge. Thence they proceeded to the Charter School, outside the village, where the rest of the members and friends, forming the major portion of the excursion, joined the party, under the conductorship of Sir Arthur Vicars, and a move was made for Ardrass Chapel, where a Paper was read by Lord Walter FitzGerald.
COUNTY KJLDARE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY. 1 39
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun
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Crozier found in the Bog of Allen
near Bog of Allen · bog · Kildare
An ornate brass crozier, 4 feet 6 inches high with interlaced metal ornament and remains of champleve enamel, was found in the Bog of Allen and is now held in the Clongowes Wood College Museum.
Read the passage
Notes on the Crozier in the Clongowes Wood College Museum. — It was found in the Bog of Allen. No other particulars known here.
Fig. 1 shows a sketch of the whole crozier ; it is 4 feet 6 inches high, and apparently of brass. See next page.
Internet Archive journalofcountyk03coun, Chapter 245
This book is in the public domain; how the books' rights are judged. The passages are quoted as the scan has them, spelling and all; a story's place is the gazetteer's best reading of the text and can be wrong.