Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (vol. 3)

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read it as the scan has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too. The passages are read off photographs of the page by machine, so a word here and there comes out wrong; they are kept as the reading produced them, so you can check any of them against the scan.

1. 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.

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   ‘ ‘ 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.

2. 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.

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   “ 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

3. 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.

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   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

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Grange Con in Wicklow, the castle ruins here are not very old, but they stand on the site of an earlier building, probably from around 1590, in the time of Sir Henry Harrington. Remains of masonry have been found in the garden adjoining and the ground around. There are stories current of underground passages leading from the castle in all directions, but the author of this record disregards those legends, because excavations have been made and no passages have been discovered. The present ruin consists of three separate portions. The centre seems to have been the largest, and it is probable that at one time all three were connected. The portion on the right must have been a kitchen of some sort, for the remains of a brick oven are still visible.

4. 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.

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   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.

5. 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.

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   “ 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

   As the companion tells it

   Close to Rathmore stands a castle that Sir William Brabazon called one of the chief keys of defence against the O'Tooles. In 1538 he wrote that the surrounding country was greatly depopulated. Kelway had held the garrison before. Brabazon urged that only an honest man, one who would live there and had experience to govern and defend a country, be appointed. Later the King ordered the Council to put it into such hands as they considered most fit.

6. 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.

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   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

   In the town of Castledermot, in the churchyard, there stands a stone known as the Swearing Stone. It is a holed-stone, meaning it has been pierced clean through with a hole. The stone measures 2 ft. 6 in. high, 1 ft. 2 in. broad, and 6 in. thick, and the hole itself is 5 in. across. It is made of granite, the same material as a companion holed-stone found in Laraghbryan churchyard near Maynooth, which is larger but of the same type. These stones are not common, and Kildare holds two of them. The name Swearing Stone points to its use, for oath-taking, and the practices bound up with such pierced stones all touch on covenants, propitiation, healing, and regeneration. The writer notes how this pagan form of monument was grafted onto the symbol of the Christian faith, offering no theory for it, only the observation itself.

7. 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.

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   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.

8. 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.

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   “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

   In 1782, Austin Cooper described the ruins of New Abbey, near the river Liffey and about a mile from Old Kilcullen. The abbey had been very much destroyed. The choir, refectory, and confessional chapel still remained entire. A beautiful steeple had stood in the centre, but it fell about eighteen years before his visit.

9. 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.

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   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

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here is the site of Ballyshannon Castle. The Black Castle too has disappeared. What remains is a square entrenchment, its centre occupied by a ruinous octagonal-shaped building of mason-work, known as the Pidgeon-house. The outer works are no longer noticeable. The place is thickly planted up with old timber, which helps to hide the lie of the land.

10. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through Clongoweswood. Clongowes Wood was sold by General Michael Browne to the Jesuit Fathers in 1818, and they opened it as a Catholic College in 1814. A Browne and Wogan coat of arms still sits over the hall door.

11. 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'.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Clonkeehan, an ancient parish in the parish of Charlestown, connected with St. Brigit. The legend is that she prayed to God to make her blind. The name in Irish means "meadow of the blind one." There is a related legend in Dunleer where suitors were many and she blinded herself, but was healed by praying at a well called Brigit's Well, five perches east of the road to Drogheda. The writer of the Ordnance letter derived the name Dunleer from this, but the late Bishop of Down, Dr. Reeves, showed it to have been "the house of austerity."

12. 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.

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    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

    Kildare was the birthplace and deathplace of David O'Buge, a Carmelite who flourished around 1320. He was born in this town and became renowned for learned lectures and subtle disputations at Oxford and Trier in Germany. He was called the gem and lantern of his country. In his time the Carmelite order was divided. Giraldus Bononiensis, Master General of the Carmelites, was in conflict with William Lidlington, provincial of all the English Carmelites. Ten of the wisest and most learned Carmelites living in England were elected to resist their General, and O'Buge was chosen as foreman of that group. Giraldus, learning that an Irishman was so hot in the controversy, turned eagerly against him. He had expected O'Buge's loyalty, since the Geraldines, his kinsmen, were planted in the country where O'Buge was born. And so he was banished to Italy.

13. 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.

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    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.

14. 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.

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    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.

15. 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.

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    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.

16. 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.

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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

    As the companion tells it

    Prosperous is a town on the road, and its story runs through the hands of one landlord. Sir Gerald Aylmer inherited an estate weighed down by the extravagance of those who came before him. He gave up his army commission and came home to live on the land, making it his first duty to clear the heavy mortgages. He worked alongside the 3rd Duke of Leinster on drainage works that reclaimed tracts of land in the Rathangan district. But here in Prosperous, what stands out is what he built. He put up the first stone cottages for labourers in his district, paid for part of the road from Prosperous to Donadea out of his own pocket, and laid down the first footpath in the neighbourhood. He had a great taste for building, and modernized much of the house at Donadea, though the record says "not too wisely." He was also thought a good sportsman. For the last ten years of his life he lived as a recluse, and died in 1878, in his eightieth year. His only son, Gerald George, the 9th Baronet, born in 1820, took over. He had been schooled mostly at home and at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. At his father's wish, he did not take a commission in the regular army, but came back to live at Donadea.

17. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here lies the Manor of Rathmore. It was forfeited to the Crown when Silken Thomas, 10th Earl of Kildare, rebelled in 1534. When Gerald, the 11th Earl, was restored to his honours and possessions by Queen Mary in 1554, this land does not appear to have been given back to the family.

18. 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.

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    Read off the scanned page by machine, so a word here and there is misread. Kept as the reading produced it, not corrected.

    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

    As the companion tells it

    Kilberry takes its name from St. Berach, or Barry's church. It lies a mile and a half west of Killart, and holds the ruins of a church, a castle, and a nunnery. Killart itself was the name of an old churchyard in the townland of Old Court, now obliterated. Some years back, a shopkeeper in Athy named Keating took the farm where the churchyard stood. He dug up the disused burial ground and carted off human bones, all of it, for top-dressing his fields. He had no luck afterwards. His shop in Athy was twice burned down. Though a relative left him a large sum of money, he did not live nine weeks to enjoy it.

19. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    The road passes through the parish of Tamlaght-ard, or Magilligan, in Derry, where a County Londonderry tradition holds that Manannan mac Lir now lives in a castle below the waves. Manannan, whose name means "the son of the sea," was a great navigator of the Tuatha de Danann, the colony that formerly peopled Ireland. He made the Isle of Man his principal port, and from him that island takes its name. The castle lies off Magilligan, opposite Inishowen, and the tradition says his magical ship is seen there once every seventh year. A similar tale is told further south, of Ivor Gillareagh macCathal O'Donovan of Myross in County Cork, a fourteenth-century navigator and necromancer. He is believed to be enchanted in Lough Cluhir, in the townland of Listarkih, County Cork, where his magical ship, with sails set and standard flying, appears once in seven years.

20. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Margaret Stokes died on the 20th of September 1900, in her home on the Hill of Howth. Two days later she was buried in the old churchyard of St Fintan's, a place she cherished because relatives she loved were buried there. The day she died was called a black day for Celtic art. Her loss was said to be a national one, and European scholars would regret that her work in that cause had ended for evermore. She is mourned not only by her own people but by all who valued what she gave.

21. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Castledermot holds pieces of a cross Ellen Tallon raised for husband John FitzGerald. One was found inside the Round Tower. Another was a headstone at west end of churchyard, showing a crowned figure, probably the Blessed Virgin Mary, below emblems of the Crucifixion, with Tallon arms opposite. Pieces also turned up at Bolton Castle and Kilkea Castle. The cross was reassembled at Kilkea Castle in 1894.

22. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, a slab dated 1716 marks a marriage recorded in stone. It bears 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. At the date of the slab, Nicholas Wogan was living at Rathcoffy. He had married Bose, daughter and heiress of Sir Neill O'Neill, Baronet, of Killileagh in County Antrim. The arms of the two families are blazoned on the memorial. For Wogan: gold, on a black chief, three martlets of the first.

23. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Lough Leane at Killarney holds an old story beneath its waters. One of the O'Donoghues of the Lakes dabbled in the black art, and once showed his power to his wife. She grew terrified, and he was taken from her. He lies enchanted with his followers in a cave below the lake, and every May morning they are seen riding across the waters.

24. 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.

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    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.

25. 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.

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    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.

26. 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.

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    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.

27. 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.

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    “ 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.

28. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in 1587, Justice Luttrell traced the edge of English rule in Ireland. He said the Pale ran from Dublin to Tallaght, then by the mountain foot into Oughterard, and from there to St. Wolstan's near Celbridge, on to Leixlip, the Barony of Dunboyne, Rathangan, and along the highway to Trim, Athboy, Ardbraccan, Slane, Mellifont, and Drogheda. His own words called it a little precinct, not much above 20 miles in length or breadth. That was all that remained of English power. Traced on a map, the line shows the immense decline from the time of Edward I to Henry VIII. What had once stretched far had shrunk to this.

29. 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.

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    “ ‘ 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."

30. 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.

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    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."

31. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Clongoweswood was home to an Eustace castle close to the rampart of the Pale. It formed one link in a chain of border strongholds stretching from Maynooth to Blackhall near Clane, running parallel to the Liffey southwards to Harristown. 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.

32. 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.

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    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.

33. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Ballyshannon, a 1650 plan of the fort records ramparts and parapets 30 feet thick, in some places 25 feet high, and an inner moat in some places 40 feet broad.

34. 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.

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    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.

35. 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.

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    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.

36. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here were the FitzGeralds of Castleroe. When the rebellion broke out in 1641, they joined it. They were outlawed for their part in it, and after that they disappear from the record. They must have left the country. The next tenant of the place was Major Thomas Harman, an officer in the service of the Government, third son of Henry Harman of Dublin. In 1651 he obtained a lease from Joan, Countess of Kildare.

37. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    The place you pass near is Grange Con, a name that may mean the grange or granary of the hound, Con in Irish being the genitive case of Cu. 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 of the Abbey, Thomas Eustace, Lord of Kilcullen, was created Viscount Baltinglass in 1541 and granted the site of the Abbey and its lands, including the castle and grange of Grangecon. These possessions were forfeited by the rebellion of James, the 3rd Viscount.

38. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through Louth, a town tied to one of the old monasteries and to Brigit's journeys. The Monastery of Louth stood only a mile from Faughart. Mochta presided over it, and he was the friend of St. Patrick. 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 there both Clonkeehan and Dunleer were on the direct road, and the traditions that have fixed themselves at those places follow from that. 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. This is disputed by Dr. Lanigan, who says it was done by MacCaille, of Uisnech in Westmeath. The Liber Hymnorum joins the two, saying that Bishop MacCaille guided her and seven nuns, her companions, over the Bog of Faichnech. When they drew near to Mel's abode, Brigit desired him to place a veil over her head before she entered into Mel's presence. MacCaille introduced her with the words, "This is the famous nun out of Leinster, even Brigit." The orders were read out by Bishop Mel, who conferred on her episcopal orders instead of the order of repentance. The explanation of this as a mistake occasioned by inebriation, given by Rawlinson, is hardly worth notice were it not for showing how apt writers of that age were to rush to a conclusion.

39. 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.

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    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.

40. 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.

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    “ 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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in 1447, Prior FitzGerald was ejected from his office at Kilmainham by Friar Hugh Middleton, the Visitor-General of the Hospitallers. The cause was dilapidations ascribed to his avarice. His successor, Friar Thomas Talbot, later told Parliament that when deposed, FitzGerald had broken open the box containing the Hospital seal and carried it off, affixing it to many illegal grants, which were consequently annulled. No further mention is made of Prior Thomas FitzGerald after this, and the date of his death is unknown.

41. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Rathmore, there was once a fine moat. It had been used for years as a gravel-pit, and the Society tried to prevent any further demolition of it. But the County Surveyor told them he was powerless to stop the destruction unless another gravel-pit, convenient for the road contractor's work, was allowed to be opened. Segrave's Castle stood close by. The company descended from the height, glad to escape the cold winds. Then a drive of some four miles brought the party to Punchestown Racecourse, where a luncheon was prepared in the Stand-house, placed at the service of the Society by the Kildare Hunt Club.

42. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    The River Boyne passes through this part of the country. In 1690 Prince William of Orange crossed it during the Battle of the Boyne. Years later, things were taken from the river near Drogheda, close to where he crossed. A stirrup, spurs, and other articles of iron and brass, six in all. Also found there were spears, axe-heads, knives, and part of a gun, 48 pieces of iron. No photograph survives of any of them.

43. 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.

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    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.

44. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere near Sherlockstown, a carved limestone block is said to have been carried from here to a thatched farmhouse close to Sallins railway station. The stone measures about 18 by 12 inches and bears the Sherlock coat-of-arms carved in high relief, three fleurs-de-lys on a shield, impaling on the sinister side another coat resembling, in the source's words, "on a chief, a spur." Elaborate mantling falls to either side of the shield, above which sits a helmet, and over that was a crest, now chiselled off, apparently intentionally. No date or initials are visible. The stone is built upside-down into the stables of the farmhouse, in the possession of a man named Kealy. A former occupant named Doyle is said, years ago, to have brought this stone from Sherlockstown to its present resting-place. The journal asked its members if anyone could identify the unknown coat impaled beside the Sherlock arms.

45. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Sherlockstown, there is an old stone font still preserved. It is a rude piece of work, not lined with lead, standing on the ground or at most on a low pedestal. It has iron rivets driven into the stone, for a cover and lock. That was required by the Constitution of Edward, Archbishop of Canterbury, in 1236. There is a font of the same kind in Oxwich Church, in Gower. Compare drawings of the two and you see how alike they are. Both are extremely rude. Both have no lead lining. Both rest low. Both had a cover and lock. A further link lies with the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem. They had considerable interests in Gower and in Kildare. They are said to have held nearly all the churches in Gower at one time, and a considerable portion of the land. What possessions they held here is uncertain. But Sherlockstown Church once belonged to the Order, and they had commanderies at Killibegs and at Kilteel.

46. 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.

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    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

    Sir Thomas Harman, who died on 11 December 1667, was buried in Christ Church Cathedral. He was of Castleroe, knighted in 1664, and had served as M.P. for Carlow and Kildare Borough. He was succeeded at Castleroe by his son Wentworth, a captain in the Battle Axe Guards. Wentworth married first Margaret, daughter of Garrett Wellesley of Dangan, County Meath, and second Frances, sister and heir of Anthony Sheppard of Newcastle, County Longford. By both wives he had issue. Wentworth Harman died on 3 May 1714. His sons do not appear to have continued at Castleroe, as by that time a family called McRoberts held it on lease. The McRoberts were buried in the neighbouring churchyard of Dunmanoge.

47. 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

    As the companion tells it

    Glenmalur is the valley where the Wogans met ruin. Sir Thomas Wogan succeeded his father as Viceroy in 1308 and led the king's troops to invade the O'Tooles' and O'Byrnes' country. He was driven back with great slaughter. That same year another John Wogan was Viceroy and suffered an equally disgraceful defeat here in Glenmalure.

48. 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

    As the companion tells it

    Edenderry is the town the road takes you through. An iron pot from this place carries a story from the years between 1689 and 1691, the time of James the Second's wars. It belonged to a family named Stanton. They were blacksmiths, and in James the Second's time they worked as farriers in his army, following his fortunes as far as Londonderry. The iron pot went with them through the whole campaign. When the fighting was done, the Stantons came back to Edenderry, and some of their descendants were still living there in more recent times. The pot was kept and passed down through the family. It is described as a pot with a history, and it stands apart from other old pots found in the area, bronze ones turned up by a man cutting sedge at the River Boyne, or a well-finished bronze pot little used, found in the bog of Coolcarrigan near Robertstown. Those have no story attached to them. The Stanton pot does. It was carried on a military campaign, used by blacksmiths who served a king, and then brought home again to Edenderry, where it stayed.

49. 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.

50. 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

    New Abbey of Kilcullen, a Grey Friars' monastery founded time out of memory, was suppressed on 30th April 1539. A County Kildare Exchequer Inquisition recorded what stood within its precincts: the walls of a church, a belfry, a dormitory, a hall, two rooms, and a kitchen, all in ruins. It also held a burial-ground, an orchard, a garden, and a paddock for pasture of eight acres. The late Prior held all this before that date. The site was leased to various persons, generally for twenty-one years, on condition that no portion be alienated except to men of English name and nation.

51. 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.

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    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.

52. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Killelan, there's a slab for resting coffins, built into the boundary wall of the churchyard. Cut into it are marks that look like hieroglyphics. John Whelan, known as the poet, carved them himself. They spell his name in Hebrew letters. A professor had supplied him with the letters at his request. The author of the account warns that Whelan may have cut his name the same way in other places, and that the ignorant might take these marks for genuine ancient Irish inscriptions.

53. 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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, drainage works once reclaimed tracts of land in this district. Sir Gerald Aylmer, 8th Baronet, carried out this work in conjunction with the 3rd Duke of Leinster. He had inherited a much-encumbered property, owing to the extravagance of his predecessors, and made it his first duty to free the estate of heavy mortgages. He gave up his commission in the army so he might live on his property and devote himself entirely to his duty as a landlord. His interests were entirely centred in his property. He built the 1st 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 1st 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 10 years he lived the life of a recluse, and died in 1878, in his 80th 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, he did not take his commission in the regular army, but came back to reside at Donadea, and married in 1853 Alice Hester Caroline.

54. 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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, a small human face carved in stone is built into the wall over the hall-door of a house. It is said to have been brought from an inn that stood on the public road close by, called the Black Moor. That inn is no longer in existence.

55. 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.

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    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

56. 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.

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    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.

57. 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

    As the companion tells it

    Geashill is a town the road passes through. Part of the old Castle of Geashill still stands as a ruin. This was the site of the siege of 1642. O'Donovan, in the Annals of the Four Masters, stated that the O'Dempseys had

58. 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.

59. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Celbridge, there is a handsome eighteenth-century monument to the Conolly family. An archaeological society excursion once came here. The Dublin contingent arrived early, and Lord Walter FitzGerald led them to see the Conolly Monument. The Rector of Celbridge, Reverend C. I. Graham, gave an interesting discourse on the monument and the Conolly family. After that, the party moved on to the Charter School outside the village, where the rest of the members joined them under the conductorship of Sir Arthur Vicars. From there they made their way to Ardrass Chapel, where Lord Walter FitzGerald read a paper.

60. 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.

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    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

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Bog of Allen, a crozier was found. It stands 4 feet 6 inches high and appears to be made of brass. No other particulars are known. It is held now in the museum at Clongowes Wood College.