Name: Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (vol. 4)
Author: County Kildare :County Kildare Archaeological Society

Chiericati describes the Earl of Kildare as chief lord of Ireland

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1517

The Nuncio described the political and social state of Ireland in 1517, noting that the King owned about a third of the sea coast while the rest belonged to lords who lived like peasants, but that the Count of Kildare was the chief lord and a wealthy, civilized man.

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“ The King owns about a third part of the sea coast. The rest of the country belongs to different lords, who are little better than peasants. They call the Pope their king, and stamp the keys and triple tiara on their coins. The Count of Childaria is the chief lord, and is a wealthy man, and as civilized as an Englishman, and the maritime cities are also civilized.”
I should like to quote more largely, but it is scarcely fair to Mrs. Ady, though she has generously allowed me to quote without restriction. I advise anyone who cares to read a graphic description of the English Court at this period, and a most amusing Irish tour, to consult the original (if he can get a copy, which I doubt) or the translation above referred to, which forms part of a charming work on mediaeval Italian history, very beautifully illustrated.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 180

As the companion tells it

As you come through Kildare town, you are passing through the seat of a man an Italian visitor in 1517 called the chief lord of Ireland. The Nuncio Chiericati reported that year that the King owned about a third of the sea coast, while the rest of the country belonged to lords who were little better than peasants. But the Count of Kildare, he wrote, was a wealthy man and as civilized as an Englishman.

Cloncurry Carmelite friary founded, burned in battle, suppressed

Cloncurry · townland · Kildare · 1405–1544

The only other Carmelite establishment in County Kildare was at Cloncurry, founded by John Roche in 1847 but destroyed by fire during a 1405 battle between Anglo-Normans and native Irish, and finally suppressed in 1544. Some ruins of the church can still be seen in the graveyard.

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The only other establishment of the Order in County Kildare was at Cloncurry, and was founded by John Roche in 1847, but destroyed by fire in a battle (in 1405) between the Anglo-Normans and the native Irish, and finally suppressed in 1544. Some of the ruins of the church may still be seen in the graveyard at Cloncurry.
The original houses of the Order in Ireland were never re-established ; but the Order of Discalced Carmelites was introduced into Ireland in the reign of Charles I.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 109

Falling Cost of Pauper Coffins in Clane Parish

Clane · town · Kildare · 1816–1831

Clane parish vestry records show the cost allowed for pauper coffins fell from 15 shillings ordered in 1816 to just 7 shillings by 1831, when thirteen coffins were purchased at that reduced price, reflecting economic distress.

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When we consider the well-known affection of the Irish peasantry for their children, these constant records of deserted children seem to tell a sad tale of poverty and distress in the country at this period ; and the same sad story is told by the coffins paid for by the parish for pauper poor. In 1816, June 4, it was ordered that in future not more than 15s. be paid for the purchase of a coffin for any pauper. In 1817 £16 7s. 2d. was expended in this way. But in 1831 we find that the price had fallen to 7s. per coffin; and the entry that year is for thirteen coffins at that price.
There are entries in the years 1827, 1828, 1829, and 1830, to the effect that the churchwardens were sworn before the Vicar to execute the duties of their office faithfully in respect of the parochial rates and assessment, and the collection and management of the same. And in 1829 it is recorded that the churchwardens came before the curate of the parish and swore upon the Holy Evangelists to the accuracy of their accounts. I do not know when this custom was discontinued.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun

Finn MacCoole's Long Stone near Percy's Castle

Knockanarrigan · townland · Wicklow

A Long Stone near Percy's Castle is said to have been thrown from Lugnaculliagh by Finn MacCoole to turn back trespassing sheep, with his finger-marks said to still be visible on it.

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Not far from Percy’s Castle is a Long Stone, which is said to have been thrown from Lugnaculliagh by Finn MacCoole, to turn back some trespassing sheep. His finger-marks on it are still visible.
Donard.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 104

Fragments of a sepulchral urn recovered from Pollardstown gravel-pit

Pollardstown · townland · Kildare · 1908

The author and a companion excavated beneath the limestone slab at the Pollardstown gravel-pit and found several pieces of earthenware that were fragments of a burial urn, which had been partly broken by workmen digging in the pit.

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place, the greater portion of which was by this time removed. We next visited the scene of action, where, on arrival, we found the stone slab as described, resting on small, round stones, and excavated underneath to a depth of two feet six inches. Having procured two short sticks, we got down on our knees, and, after carefully removing some of the sand under the stone, we found several pieces of earthenware, which were undoubtedly the fragments of a burial urn.1 These had evidently been broken by the workmen in digging, as we found some more pieces on the edge of the pit, and one on its way down the incline, which goes to show that the remaining fragments went out as ballast on the line. I had great trouble to keep them from breaking up, as they got wet by being exposed to the weather, and had to be carefully dried in a house close by. Since then I have often visited the pit, but found that nothing has been discovered there since.
Bronze Pin discovered in the Railway Gravel-pit at Pollardstown, 1908.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 179

Garrisons and raiding threat around Naas and the River Liffey, c.1599

Naas · town · Kildare · 1599

A document by Mr. Ley opposing concentration of garrisons around Naas warned that if the Kildare garrison were withdrawn, the O'Connors, O'Dempseys of Coshegowly, and O'Mores of Leix would have free liberty to raid along the Liffey and prevent goods reaching Naas market.

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“Also the enymys will not suffer eny cowse hogs sheepe or butter to pass from Sr Terens Demsey is Country or O’Doyns Country to the market of the Nase. Kildare being the heywaye, and those ii contris beyng the onely plassis that fornysith the sayd market of the Nase with bevis, porks, mottons, & buter, with other necessaries.”
[Portfolio of loose documents in manuscript at Carton.]

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 251

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Naas, this was a garrison town in 1599. A man named Ley warned that if the Kildare garrison were pulled back, the O'Connors, O'Dempseys, and O'Mores would raid the Liffey freely and stop goods reaching Naas market. He wrote that the enemy would not suffer any cows, hogs, sheep, or butter to pass from Sir Terence Dempsey's country or O'Doyne's country to the market of Naas.

James FitzGerald's village at Harristown destroyed

Harristown · townland · Kildare · 1576

James FitzGerald of Drinnanstown built a thatched house and village at Harristown after receiving a grant of lands in 1576, but it was destroyed and his goods burned by the O'Mores and O'Dempseys, forcing him to relocate to Walterstown.

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“On 12th March, 1576, the lands of Harristowne, Ballirickard, and Ballemoyler alias Meylerstowne, which lie in the King’s County (now in the County Kildare), and are parcells of the Manor of Clinmalyry, late the possessions of the O’Dempseys, were granted to one James Fitz- Gerald, of Drynanstowne, Gent., 3rd son of Redmond FitzGerald, Esq. (of Timahoe, County Kildare), and his heirs for ever. That when the said James held possession of these lands, he built a thatched house and village in Harristowne, which were destroyed by the Mores and Dempseys, who burned all his goods and chattels there. After this he went to reside at Walterstowne, near the aforesaid lands, from whence he superintended the works and operations at Harristowne.”
James FitzGerald, of Drinnanstown, died on the 24th June, 1618, and his wife, Mary Wogan (daughter of William Wogan, of Rathcoffey), on the 15th April, 1624. They were buried at St. Brigid’s Cathedral, Kildare, where their tomb- slab still exists.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 241

Lands wasted by O'Connor's raid near Morett in 1539

Morett · townland · Laois · 1539–1540

The 1540 extent of the Manor of Morett recorded that 36 acres of arable land had been wasted by O'Connor and his confederates from Offaly during May in the 31st year of Henry VIII's reign and still lay uncultivated with no profits accruing.

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“ That there are there three farm-steads and two Cottages, and lx acres of arable land, and x acres of wood and pasture of great measure, of which xxxvi acres of arable land were wasted by O’Connor and his wild Irish confederates, dwelling in Offaly, during the month of May in the year of the said King’s reign xxxi, and still lie uncultivated, so that no profits accrue therefrom at present ; and that Brian Ogge, the Constable, now holds xii such acres, portion of the said lx acres of arable land together with the said x acres of wood and pasture of the said measure, for ever, with one plough, whence nothing is to be rendered yearly because he received the issues and profits therefrom for the execution of his Office and Constable of the said Castle to the sum of xls for his wages.
“And that Malaghlyn mac Shane and Donnagh O’Molanire now occupy with their two ploughs, xii such acres of arable land the residue of the said lx acres of arable land of great measure, rendering for every acre thereof yearly vmd ; (total) viiis. And for either plough of the said two ploughs they render yearly three horse loads of beer, the price of each load (or pack) iiiis ; (total) xxiiii8. And three measures of wheat, the price of each measure xvid : — viiis. And the same two tenants will plough with their said two ploughs for the use of the said Manor, viz. — at the time of sowing wheat for iiii and at the time of sowing oats for iiii days, wdien necessary, at the rate of vid for every plough, for every such day, they are extended yearly at viiis. And with their two wagons they shall draw yearly, in Autumn, sheaves of corn and turf, to the chief dwelling of the Manor aforesaid, for as many days as shall be necessary at the rate aforesaid, they are extended yearly at viiis. And every of them shall reap, in Autumn, the crops, for the use of the said Manor, for two days ; and they extend the value of the work of every of them for such day at iid : — viiid. And every of them renders yearly at Christmas a hen

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 246

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Morett, in May 1539, O'Connor and his confederates from Offaly came through and wasted 36 acres of arable land. The 1540 extent of the Manor of Morett recorded that those acres still lay uncultivated, so that no profits accrued from them. The manor held 60 acres of arable land in total, along with 10 acres of wood and pasture, three farm-steads and two cottages. After the raid, Brian Ogge, the constable of the castle, held 12 acres for his wages of 40 shillings. Malaghlyn mac Shane and Donnagh O'Molanire worked another 12 acres with two ploughs, rendering rent in beer, wheat, and labour at sowing and harvest times. What O'Connor's raid left was a manor still trying to recover, with a third of its best land torn open and idle.

MacDonnell Grant of Tinnakill Castle and Lands, 1562

Tinnakill · townland · Laois · 1562

Calvagh mac Turlough MacDonnell was granted the castle and lands surrounding Tinnakill in February 1562, under strict conditions requiring maintenance of Galloglasses, English customs, and preservation of fords, castles and causeways. The grant tied the family to service obligations to the Crown and the Constable of the Fort of Maryborough.

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As already mentioned, Calvagh mac Turlough MacDonnell was granted the castle and lands surrounding Tinnakill in the month of February, 1562. O’Donovan, in his notes to his edition of “ The Annals of the Four Masters,” vol. v., p. 1,641, gives the following remarks about the predecessors of this Calvagh MacDonnell. He writes : —
“The Pedigree of this [the Tinnakill] branch of the MacDonnells is given by O’Farrell in his ‘ Linea Amtiqua ’ [a manuscript genealogical work in Ulster’s Office], and by Duald MacFirbis in his work entitled [in English] ‘ the Clan-Donnell of Leinster, the posterity of Turlough oge.’ They descend from that most powerful of all the clans of the Highlands of Scotland, the Lords of the Isles, and through Marcus, according to these writers, a younger son of Aengus oge, the hero of Sir Walter Scott’s ‘Lord of the Isles,’ who had married a daughter of O’Kane. The eldest brother of this Marcus was John, who died in 1387,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 124

Marches guarded at Moyrath (Morett) in 1289

Morett · townland · Laois · 1289–1290

During disturbed conditions on the Leinster marches, twelve esquires with war-horses and forty vassals were stationed at Moyrath. The Justiciary attempted, unsuccessfully, to negotiate peace with the Irish of Offaly and Leix at le Ryban, Moyrath and Rosglass in 1289.

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assembled at Kildare, and were inspected under their four seneschals by Sir Walter L ’Enfant, Prior of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem (at Kilmainham), after which they were reviewed by the Justiciary, and told off to guard certain marches. The seneschal of Kildare was ordered to guard the marches of Offaly from Totemoy, by Rathangan and Kildare, as far as Kilross (Kilrush) ; the seneschal of Wexford’s portion was from Kilross by “le Ryban” (i.e., Rheban), to Moyrath (Morett); the seneschal of Carlow, from Moyrath to “ Calcet of Leye ” ; and the seneschal of Kilkenny from “ Calcet of Leye 55 by those marches to Dunsalech. So long as their services were required, the seneschals were ordered to remain at their appointed posts, as the state of the marches was then in a very disturbed condition. Later on, the Justiciary proceeded to “le Ryban,” and remained there for four days to superintend the defences. At Moyrath were placed twelve esquires, with twelve war-horses and forty vassals. Owing to the continued hostility of the Irish of Offaly and Leix, and the daily killing of the king’s lieges and the burning of their houses, the Justiciary, in September and October, 1289, attempted to come to terms with them at “le Ryban,” “Moyrath,” and “ Rosglass ” (now Monasterevin), but failed to come to peaceful terms until the following year.
As far as can be ascertained, the Manor of Morett came into the possession of the FitzGeralds at the end of the thirteenth century. “The Earl of Kildare’s Red Book” contains the copy of a Deed by which Sir Alan de la Zouche, lint., for the sum of 250 marks, granted to John fitz Thomas FitzGerald, Baron of Offaly, his castles, lands, and tenements in “Taghmodoe” (? Timogue, Queen’s County) and Moyrath. This Deed was witnessed to by Sir John Wogan, Knt., then Justiciary of Ireland, which fixes the date to the year 1295.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 167

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Morett, in 1289, this was a guarded point on the Leinster marches, and the road you are on was contested ground. Forces had assembled at Kildare and been inspected under their four seneschals by Sir Walter L'Enfant, Prior of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem at Kilmainham, after which the Justiciary reviewed them and told them off to guard certain marches. The seneschal of Wexford was given the stretch from Kilross by le Ryban, that is Rheban, to Moyrath. The seneschal of Carlow took over from Moyrath to Calcet of Leye. The seneschals were ordered to remain at their appointed posts for as long as their services were required, because the state of the marches was then in a very disturbed condition. The Justiciary himself proceeded to le Ryban and stayed there for four days to superintend the defences. Here at Moyrath were placed twelve esquires, with twelve war-horses and forty vassals. The Irish of Offaly and Leix continued in hostility. They were daily killing the king's lieges and burning their houses. In September and October of 1289, the Justiciary attempted to come to terms with them at le Ryban, Moyrath, and Rosglass, now Monasterevin, but failed to come to peaceful terms until the following year. The Manor of Morett later came into the possession of the FitzGeralds at the end of the thirteenth century. The Earl of Kildare's Red Book contains the copy of a deed by which Sir Alan de la Zouche, for the sum of 250 marks, granted to John fitz Thomas FitzGerald, Baron of Offaly, his castles, lands, and tenements in Taghmodoe and Moyrath. That deed was witnessed by Sir John Wogan, then Justiciary of Ireland, which fixes the date to 1295.

Ogham inscribed boulder discovered at Donaghmore churchyard

Donaghmore · townland · Kildare · 1902

In 1902 a small boulder bearing an Ogham inscription on two edges was discovered in the north-eastern part of Donaghmore churchyard, where it had been used as a headstone.

Read the passage

1 On the 4th August, 1902, I discovered a small boulder, bearing an Ogham inscription on two of its edges, in the north-eastern portion of this churchyard, where it had been used as a headstone to a grave. It will be described, and a reading of the inscription by Professor Rhys (of Jesus College, Oxford) given in the July number of our Jouhxal.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Donaghmore, in the churchyard, a small boulder was found on the 4th of August 1902. It bore an Ogham inscription on two of its edges, and had been used as a headstone to a grave in the north-eastern part of the yard. Professor Rhys of Jesus College, Oxford, was to give a reading of the inscription.

Sirna Saeghlach Slain at Aillinn

Knockaulin · street · Kildare

The Annals of the Four Masters record that Sirna Saeghlach, after a century and a half as Sovereign of Ireland, fell by Roitheachtaigh at Aillinn around 1031 BC.

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“ The age of the world 4169 (i.e., b.c. 1031) Sirna ‘ Saeghlach ’ (i.e., the long-lived), son of Dian, son of Dernain, after having been a century and a half in the Sovereignty of Ireland, fell by Roitheachtaigh, son of Roan, at Aillinn.3
“ The age of the world 5089 (i.e., b.c. 111). Ederscel, son of Eoghain, son of Oilioll, after having been five years in the Sovereignty of Ireland, was slain by Nuadhat 1 neacht ’ (i.e., the snow-white), son of Sedna ‘ sithbhaic’ (i.e., of the city), at Aillinn.4

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 204

As the companion tells it

Along here at Aillinn, a king called Sirna Saeghlach, the long-lived, son of Dian, met his end. The Annals of the Four Masters say he had been a century and a half in the Sovereignty of Ireland, which is a reign of 150 years. Around 1031 BC he fell by Roitheachtaigh, son of Roan, at this place. The same annals record that much later, around 111 BC, another sovereign, Ederscel, was slain at Aillinn by Nuadhat Neacht, the snow-white, son of Sedna.

Sir William Hartpole sheltered Rose O'Toole at Carlow Castle

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1610

Sir William Hartpole was accused of harbouring Rose O'Toole, wife of the rebel Feagh mac Hugh O'Byrne, within the Castle of Carlow at a time when the Lord Deputy had offered a reward for her capture.

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1. That he kept within the Castle of Carlow, Rose O’Toole, the wife of the great rebel, Feagh mac Hugh O’Byrne, at the time when the Lord Deputy had offered a reward for her capture.
1 Atkinson’s “ Cal. of State Papers,” pp. 87-101.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 176

St. Evin founds monastery at Ros-Glas, Monasterevin

Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 500–600

St. Evin came from Munster and founded a monastery on the bank of the River Barrow, giving the site the name Ros-Glas-na-Muimneach after the Munster monks who followed him. The place had previously been called Ros-Glas, meaning the Green Wood.

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“ Saint Evin betook himself to Leinster, and at the bank of the River Barrow he raised a noble monastery, called in that age Ros-Glas, and which, from the number of monks who followed the man of God from his own country of Munster, was called Ros-Glas of the Munster men. This holy man was famous for many and great miracles, and the monastery, on account of the reverence paid to its first founder, stood in so great honour with posterity, that it was held a most safe sanctuary, and no one presumed to offer violence or injury to the holy place, who did not soon afterwards suffer the severity of the Divine vengeance.”
It was also said that after his death there was a bell belonging to St. Evin “ which was held in so great veneration that posterity were accustomed to swear on it as a kind of inviolable oath, and to conclude controversies by the virtue of this oath.” St. Molua of Clonfert (4th Aug.) speaks of “ having visited the Abbot of St. Evin in his monastery not far from the Barrow, which that most holy man, St. Abban, had originally founded.” The year of St. Evin’s death is not recorded anywhere : but his festival was held on the 22nd of December, and his death probably occurred in the sixth century. St. Evin wrote a Life of St. Patrick, partly in Latin and partly in Irish ; and it is said to contain many more details of St. Patrick’s life and mission than there are in any other Life of the Saint. In the Calendar of Angus he is called “Pure Emhin from the brink of the dumb Barrow.” The well that springs at a little distance from the present mansion was in all probability originally St. Evin’s well.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 131

As the companion tells it

As you come through Monasterevin, this town on the River Barrow takes its name from a monastery founded on the riverbank in the 500s. Saint Evin came from Munster and raised a noble monastery at a place already called Ros-Glas, the Green Wood. So many monks followed him from Munster that it became known as Ros-Glas of the Munster men. He was famous for miracles, and the monastery was held as a safe sanctuary where, as the old account says, "no one presumed to offer violence or injury to the holy place, who did not soon afterwards suffer the severity of the Divine vengeance." After his death his bell was used to swear an inviolable oath to settle controversies. St. Molua of Clonfert visited the abbot of the monastery and noted that St. Abban had originally founded the site. Saint Evin wrote a Life of St. Patrick, partly in Latin and partly in Irish, said to hold more details than any other life of the saint. The Calendar of Angus calls him "Pure Emhin from the brink of the dumb Barrow." His death is not recorded, but his festival was kept on the 22nd of December, probably in the sixth century. A well springing near the present mansion was likely his original well.

Storm damage to Tinnakill Castle, February 1903

Tinnakill · townland · Laois · 1903

During the great storm ('big wind') of February 1903, a large amount of masonry fell inwards onto the groined floor of Tinnakill Castle from the east wall, including the chimney and the arch over the double round-headed window.

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During the big wind of February, 1903, a large amount of masonry fell inwards on to the groined floor (which was in the last century cemented over to throw off the rain) from the east wall. It included the chimney and the arch over the double round-headed window before mentioned.
Thomas Conroy, the tenant of the farm on which the castle stands, states that a “ Sheela-na-gig,” now built into the wall of one of his out-houses, was originally part of the missing jamb to the window on the second floor, which has already been described as having ornamental carvings on the existing jamb. These grotesque nude female figures, known as “ Sheela-nagigs/’ were intended in mediaeval times to keep off the evil eye.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 126

St. Ultan Tua and Fotharnaise Buried at Clane

Clane · town · Kildare

St. Ultan Tua, known for keeping a stone in his mouth during Lent to prevent speaking, and his brother Fotharnaise are said to have been buried at Clane. They were brothers of Maighend, Abbot of Kilmainham, from whom nearby Mainham was likely named.

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St. Ultan Tua, who used to put a stone into his mouth to prevent his speaking during Lent, and his brother Fotharnaise, are said to have been buried in Clane. They were brothers of Maighend, Abbot of Kilmainham, from whom the parish and church of Mainham, near Clane, were probably called.
With regard to the Ecclesiastical Succession in Clane, I have only found five names anterior to the breaking up of the Monastery in 1542. They are those of —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 24

Talbotstown Chapel built by measurement under Father Gahan

Talbotstown · electoral division · Wicklow · 1831

After Kilranelagh's old chapel ceased use, mass was said at Englishtown for 150-200 years before Talbotstown Chapel was built about sixty years before writing; Father Gahan measured his assembled congregation to determine the chapel's necessary size.

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29. When the old chapel of Kilranelagh ceased to be used, mass was said in the chapel at Englishtown, as John Magrath believes, for some 150 or 200 years; and after that, now some sixty years ago, service was first held in Talbotstown Chapel. Father Gahan, who was parish priest at the time it was built, assembled his congregation on the site of the proposed new chapel, and ascertained by actual measurement the size necessary. The dimensions for Tinnock Chapel were arrived at in the same way. Father Gahan’s predecessor was Father Moore, who blessed the well at Barraderry, which is still known as “ Father Moore’s Well.” He baptized children there ; and the water used to be considered a cure for headache, and other ailments.
30. Tubber Cristamon. A blessed well, where numerous votive rags may be seen tied to a bough above the spring.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 201

The Battle of Aillinn, AD 722

Knockaulin · street · Kildare · 722

The Annals of the Four Masters record a battle fought at Aillinn between the two sons of Murchadh in AD 722, in which Dunchadh the senior was slain.

Read the passage

“The age of Christ 722. The Battle of Aillinn was fought between the two sons of Murchadh, son of Bran (King of Leinster), in which Dunchadh the senior was slain.
[“ a.d. 728. The Battle of Aillinn between the two sons of Murchadh, son of Bran, i.e., Faelan and Dunchadh. Faelan, who was the junior, conquered and reigned ; Cathal, son of Fingaine, King of Munster, and Cellach, son of Faelchair, King of Osraighe, escaped. Dunchadh, son of Murchadh, King of Leinster, was slain ; but he survived the battle, and lived for a week after it. Faelan assumed the sovereignty of Leinster, and married the wife of Dunchadh, namely, Tualaitli, daughter of Cathal, son of Fingaine, King of Munster; vide p. 57 of O’Donovan’s “Three fragments of Annals of Ireland, by Dudley Mac Firbis.”]

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 205

As the companion tells it

Along here at Knockaulin, the Annals of the Four Masters place the Battle of Aillinn, fought in the year 722 between the two sons of Murchadh, son of Bran, King of Leinster. The sons were Faelan, the junior, and Dunchadh, the senior. Faelan conquered and took the sovereignty of Leinster. Dunchadh was slain, though one account says he survived the battle and lived for a week after it. Cathal, son of Fingaine, King of Munster, and Cellach, son of Faelchair, King of Osraighe, escaped the field. Faelan then married Dunchadh's wife, Tualaitli, daughter of Cathal, son of Fingaine. A later entry in the same annals gives the date as 728, but the place remembered is this one.

The Monk's Walk and Friar's Walk at Monasterevin

Monasterevin · town · Kildare

A fine walk of yew-trees winding through the garden is a relic of olden times, called 'The Monk's Walk', with another nearby path near the old walls still called 'The Friar's Walk'.

Read the passage

Bishop Comerford, in his annals of the parish, records that at the beginning of the nineteenth century a tomb was discovered containing a skeleton, which the workmen who were employed recognized as that of an ecclesiastic, from the presence of a wooden chalice placed on the breast. They at once notified the discovery to the Parish Priest, who procured a coffin, intending to remove the remains, but they crumbled to dust before this could be effected. A fine walk of yew-trees, which winds through the garden, is an undoubted relic of the olden time, and is called “ The Monk’s Walk/’ and there is another path near the old walls still called “ The Friar’s Walk.”
The town of Monasterevin might be called the town of bridges, as there are twenty-six bridges within half a mile. The oldest and most interesting is “ Ballagh,” or the Pass Bridge, which Essex crossed in 1599, on his way northwards, and Cromwell’s army also crossed on their way to destroy the fine old Castle of Lea.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 135

As the companion tells it

As you come through Monasterevin, there's a walk of yew trees winding through a garden that people still call the Monk's Walk, a relic of older times, and near the old walls another path called the Friar's Walk. Bishop Comerford recorded that at the beginning of the 1800s workmen found a tomb with a skeleton they took to be an ecclesiastic, because of a wooden chalice placed on the breast. The parish priest sent for a coffin to remove the remains, but the bones crumbled to dust before it could be done. Monasterevin has been called the town of bridges, with 26 bridges within half a mile. The oldest is Ballagh, the Pass Bridge, which Essex crossed in 1599 heading north, and Cromwell's army crossed it too on their way to destroy the Castle of Lea.

White Castle of Athy used as prison and police-barrack

Athy · town · Kildare · 1780–1898

The White Castle of Athy was used as a prison at the end of the eighteenth century, and during part of the following century served as a police-barrack; at the time of writing it was rented as a store by a merchant.

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When the castle was repaired is not stated. At the latter end of the eighteenth century it was used as a prison; and, during a portion of the last century, it served as a police-barrack. At the present time a merchant in Athy rents it as a store.
The present bridge is quite modern, having been commenced in 1796.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 39

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Athy, the White Castle here was a prison in the late 1700s, then a police-barrack for part of the 1800s. When it was repaired is not known. By the time of writing, a merchant in Athy rented it as a store.

1596 Grant of the Manor of Monasterevin to the Earl of Essex

Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 1596

In 1596 the Crown granted the Manor of Evon (Monasterevin) to Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex, including a fair hall, stable, kitchen, orchard, watermill and extensive lands, with the Earl obliged to maintain the house and reserve use of it for the Lord Deputy.

Read the passage

“ The Manor of Evon (Monasterevin), wherein is a fair hall, a stable, kitchen, and other rooms, an orchard, watermill, 120 acres arable land, 60 acres pasture, BO acres meadow, parcel of the demesne of the Manor ; 60 acres of meadow lying between the bridge (now known as the Ballagh, or Pass Bridge) and the house of Evon, on this side of the Barrow; three messuages, six cottages, and 280 in the town of Evon ; 75 acres in Kilroshaglen ( ) ;
75 acres in Grange Ore ; 75 acres in Glangae or Clongee ( ) ; 75 acres

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 145

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Monasterevin, in 1596 the Crown granted this manor to Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex. The grant lists a fair hall, stable, kitchen, orchard and watermill, with 120 acres of arable land, 60 of pasture, and meadow running between the bridge and the house of Evon along the Barrow. The Earl was obliged to keep up the house and hold it ready for use by the Lord Deputy.

Athy granted borough charter with defined limits from White Castle, 1613

Athy · town · Kildare · 1613

The 1613 Charter granted to Athy defined the limits of the Borough as extending half a mile in all directions from the White Castle, and the Corporation seal bore the device of a castle on a bridge.

Read the passage

In the 1st volume of the “ Anthologia Hibernica Magazine,” published in 1793, and at pages 327 and 352, a most unreliable writer on Irish Antiquities, named William Beauford, m.a., of Athy (at one time a schoolmaster in Carlow), tries to prove, by his incorrect translation of a Latin inscription on a stone now built into the Castle Wall (described below), that the correct name should be “ White’s Castle.” In the Charter, granted to Athy in 1613, the limits of the Borough are defined as extending half a mile in all directions from the White Castle. The Seal of the Corporation bears the device of a castle on a bridge {vide p. 400, vol. iii of The Journal).
When the castle was repaired is not stated. At the latter end of the eighteenth century it was used as a prison; and, during a portion of the last century, it served as a police-barrack. At the present time a merchant in Athy rents it as a store.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 39

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is the town of Athy in Kildare. In 1613 a charter granted to Athy defined the borough as extending half a mile in every direction from the White Castle, and the corporation seal carried the device of a castle on a bridge. A writer named William Beauford, a schoolmaster from Carlow, published a piece in 1793 trying to prove through a Latin inscription on a stone built into the castle wall that the name should be "White's Castle," but his translation was unreliable. The castle later served as a prison at the end of the 1700s, then as a police barrack for part of the next century, and a merchant in Athy rents it as a store.

Austin Cooper's 1781 description of Morett Castle ruins

Morett · townland · Laois · 1781

Antiquary Austin Cooper visited Morett Castle in 1781 and recorded its dimensions, noting the interior was blackened as if burned, with no stairs, and traces of a surrounding fosse. He also noted the remains of an old church nearby and a modern house occupied by a Mrs FitzGerald.

Read the passage

The Castle of Moret, Queen’s County, is 36 feet 6 inches, by 49 feet . It does not seem to be very ancient, as the work is quite fresh, and altogether it has a modern appearance. The inside is quite black, as if it had been burned, and without any stairs. From some little banks, &c., remaining, I imagine it to have been surrounded by a fosse, &c. The Wall is 4 feet 8 inches. It is said to have been built by the Fitz- Geralds. At a small distance south of this castle, are the remains of an old church, and a modern house inhabited by a Mrs. FitzGerald.
The Manor of Morett of late years came into the possession of the Marquis of Lansdowne, from whom it was bought by Lord Portarlington. The latter sold most of his Queen’s County Estate (including Morett) to his tenants, under the Ashbourne Act, in 1897.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 169

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Austin Cooper came to look at Morett Castle in 1781. He measured the walls at 4 feet 8 inches thick and the building at 36 feet 6 inches by 49 feet. He thought it did not seem very ancient because the work looked fresh and modern. The inside was black, as if it had been burned, and there were no stairs. He believed it had been surrounded by a fosse, from the banks still remaining. It was said to have been built by the Fitz-Geralds. Cooper also saw the remains of an old church a short distance south of the castle, and a modern house where a Mrs FitzGerald was living. The manor later passed to the Marquis of Lansdowne, then to Lord Portarlington, who sold it to his tenants under the Ashbourne Act in 1897.

Barton purchase of Grove estate, Co. Tipperary, 1744

Grove · townland · Tipperary · 1744

About 1744 the Barton family, having established a business in Bordeaux, purchased the property of Grove in County Tipperary while continuing their Bordeaux business.

Read the passage

In 1725 Thomas Barton, grandson of William Barton, of Rowe, established himself in business in Bordeaux, which he conducted with considerable success, and acquired property in the Medoc district. About the year 1744 he also purchased the property of Grove in the Co. Tipperary ; but the business in Bordeaux was continued, and in 1791 was the property of Hugh Barton, his grandson. In 1794, during the reign of terror at Bordeaux, a large number of the leading merchants were thrown into prison and their offices closed. Among those arrested was Hugh Barton, who was confined in the prison of the Fort du Ha, from which, through the connivance of his wife Anne, who was a naturalized daughter of Nathaniel Weld Johnson, a naturalized French subject of Scotch origin, he made his escape to Ireland. He brought with him several interesting mementos of his imprisonment, which were given to a museum in Dublin, but have since disappeared.
A very interesting story is told of the way in which his French property was preserved. Not being allowed as an alien to hold property in Bordeaux, he arranged with one Daniel Questier to take over and manage the business there, while he (Hugh Barton) managed it in Great Britain. This was done without any act of partnership. As Mr. Barton observes : “ The difficulty of carrying on business in such disturbed times, at such a distance, and under such conditions, was naturally very great ; nevertheless, with a perfect trust and confidence in each other, these two remarkable men continued to carry on the business

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 73

Bronze Ring Found in the Rampart of the Rathmore Moat

Rathmore · townland · Kildare · 1905

In 1905 a bronze ring, ornamented with incised circles at its ends, was found in the rampart encircling the base of the great pagan tumulus or moat at Rathmore, County Kildare. Its exact use remains unknown, though it may have been a personal ornament.

Read the passage

The bronze ring was found in 1905 in the rampart which encircles the base of the great pagan tumulus, or moat, at Rathmore, Co. Kildare. The only ornament on it is at the ends, where there are a few incised circles, as is shown in the accompanying illustration. Its use is unknown, unless it was an article of personal ornament.
Both these ancient and interesting objects are in the possession of Mr. Algernon M. Aylmer, of Rathmore, who kindly exhibited the spear-head at the Society’s Annual General Meeting, in Naas, in 1905.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 286

Carmelite Abbey at Kildare founded by Richard de Vesci

Kildare · town · Kildare

The Carmelites possessed an Abbey in Kildare, founded by Richard de Vesci, where Ralph Kelly, Archbishop of Cashel, was educated. Another distinguished friar associated with Kildare was David O'Bugy, called 'the light and glory of Ireland.'

Read the passage

In this volume, after a brief sketch of the history of the Carmelites from the time of John, Patriarch of Jerusalem, who gave the order its first rule, a.d. 412, the author tells of the founding of the Reformed or Discalced Carmelites (so called because they wore sandals instead of boots) by St. Teresa in 1562. The first Province of this order was founded in Spain in 1580. The substance of the book of the history, however, deals with the Order in Ireland. The first Province of the Carmelites in Ireland was founded in 1808. It possessed an Abbey in Kildare, founded by Richard de Yesci, in which Ralph Kelly, Archbishop of Cashel, was educated. Another distinguished Friar of Kildare was David O’Bugy, sometimes called “ the light and glory of Ireland.”
The only other establishment of the Order in County Kildare was at Cloncurry, and was founded by John Roche in 1847, but destroyed by fire in a battle (in 1405) between the Anglo-Normans and the native Irish, and finally suppressed in 1544. Some of the ruins of the church may still be seen in the graveyard at Cloncurry.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 109

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Kildare town now. The Carmelites had an abbey here, founded by Richard de Vesci. Ralph Kelly, who became Archbishop of Cashel, was educated in it. Another friar connected with Kildare was David O'Bugy, called "the light and glory of Ireland." The first province of the Carmelite order in Ireland was not founded until 1808, long after de Vesci's time, so the abbey here belongs to an earlier chapter of the order's presence in the country.

Castle of Lyons destroyed by O'Tooles and rebuilt, destroyed again 1641

Lyons · townland · Kildare · 1271–1641

The Castle of Lyons was erected on the site of an earlier castle destroyed by the O'Tooles, the native assailants of the Pale, and the Aylmers' castle was itself destroyed in 1641.

Read the passage

The Castle of Lyons, destroyed in 1641, was erected on the site of one which the O’Tooles, the active native assailants of the Pale in this direction, had destroyed.
l8o THE AYLMERS OF LYONS, COUNTY KILDARE.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 116

De Saundford stops at Morett Castle site in 1288 hosting

Morett · townland · Laois · 1288

After leaving Rheban, the Justiciary Sir John de Saundford arrived at Moyrath (Morett) and stayed three days placing guards in the district and parleying with the Irish, before proceeding to Tullow in County Carlow.

Read the passage

The Calendars of Irish Documents and State Papers seldom mention Morett ; consequently very little can be said about it. The earliest mention of the name appears to be in the years 1288-1290, in an account of the expenses incurred by the Justiciary of Ireland, Sir John de Saundford, who was also Archbishop of Dublin, during his expeditions for the pacification of the country.1 It states that in the month of August, 1288, on his return from Connaught, where he had been to inspect the King’s Castles, he made a hosting against the Irish of Offaly and Leix, who were then in a state of war. Starting from Dublin, he, on the 28rd of August, reached Ryban (Rheban, near Athy), where he remained till the 26th. On the following day he arrived at Moyrath (Morett), and stopped there for three days, placing guards in those parts, and parleying with the Irish, after which he proceeded on to Tyllath (Tullow, Co. Carlow). On Thursday, the 9th of September, in answer to a summons from the Justiciary, the whole war-services of Leinster due to the king
Sweetman’s “ Calendar of Documents, Ireland,” vol. iii. , pp. 265-272,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 166

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in August 1288, Sir John de Saundford, Justiciary of Ireland and Archbishop of Dublin, arrived at Moyrath, what is now Morett. He had come from Rheban near Athy, part of a hosting against the Irish of Offaly and Leix who were in a state of war. He stopped here for three days, placing guards in those parts and parleying with the Irish, before proceeding on to Tullow in County Carlow. This was on his return from Connaught, where he had gone to inspect the King's castles, part of his wider efforts for the pacification of the country.

Deserted Infant Left in Widow Murphy's Garden, Clane

Clane · town · Kildare · 1825

Parish vestry records from Clane note the case of a deserted infant left in the Widow Murphy's garden in May 1825, part of a pattern of foundling children recorded in the parish books reflecting poverty in the district.

Read the passage

There is frequent entry of sums raised in the parish to pay the cost of nursing foundling children. At first, such children were sent at once to the Foundling Hospital in Dublin ; but an Act of Parliament prohibited this being done during the winter ; and for this reason provision had to be made for them in the parish, and overseers were appointed to look after them. In May, 1825, we are told of a deserted infant left in the Widow Murphy’s garden. In 1830 £10 was paid to nurses for two
1 It is most likely that the greater part of the wine was used for poor parishioners who were ill.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 28

Doon Fort identified as Rath Bhacain near Morett Castle

Morett · townland · Laois

The great rath called Doon Fort, situated half a mile north-west of Morett Castle, was identified by O'Donovan as the 'Rath Bhacain' mentioned in the Tripartite Life of St. Patrick, and its older name survives in a portion of a keen.

Read the passage

The great rath called “ Doon Fort,” which is situated halfa-mile to the north-west of Morett Castle, was identified by O’Donovan as being the “ Bath Bhacain,” mentioned in the “ Tripartite Life of St. Patrick.”
The older name is introduced into a portion of a “ Keen,”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 246

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Morett, there was a great rath called Doon Fort, half a mile north-west of Morett Castle. O'Donovan identified it as the Rath Bhacain mentioned in the Tripartite Life of St. Patrick. Its older name survives in a portion of a keen.

Ederscel Slain at Aillinn

Knockaulin · street · Kildare

The Annals record that Ederscel, son of Eoghain, after five years as Sovereign of Ireland, was slain by Nuadhat at Aillinn around 111 BC.

Read the passage

“ The age of the world 5089 (i.e., b.c. 111). Ederscel, son of Eoghain, son of Oilioll, after having been five years in the Sovereignty of Ireland, was slain by Nuadhat 1 neacht ’ (i.e., the snow-white), son of Sedna ‘ sithbhaic’ (i.e., of the city), at Aillinn.4
[“In the second century Achy ‘ Ainkenn,’ King of Leinster, committed bigamy by taking to wife the Monarch of Ireland, TuathaTs, younger daughter during the life of her elder sister, whom he had previously married. In revenge Tuathal invaded Leinster, and burned and levelled Naas, Aillinn, Maistiu (or Mullaghmast), Rairiu (or Mullaghreelan), and Baire Bresail. At Rathimil (or the external rath), afterwards called Garbthonnach (or the cruel burial), in Hy Muireadhaigh, the abode of

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 204

As the companion tells it

Along here at Aillinn, the Annals record that Ederscel, son of Eoghain, after five years as Sovereign of Ireland, was slain by Nuadhat the snow-white, son of Sedna, around 111 BC. The site saw further violence in the second century, when Tuathal, Monarch of Ireland, invaded Leinster after the Leinster king Achy committed bigamy by marrying Tuathal's younger daughter while her elder sister was still alive. In revenge, Tuathal burned and levelled Naas, Aillinn, Mullaghmast, Mullaghreelan, and Baire Bresail.

Father Moore's Well at Barraderry blessed for healing

Barraderry · townland · Galway

Father Moore, predecessor to Father Gahan, blessed the well at Barraderry, still known as Father Moore's Well; he baptized children there and its water was considered a cure for headache and other ailments.

Read the passage

29. When the old chapel of Kilranelagh ceased to be used, mass was said in the chapel at Englishtown, as John Magrath believes, for some 150 or 200 years; and after that, now some sixty years ago, service was first held in Talbotstown Chapel. Father Gahan, who was parish priest at the time it was built, assembled his congregation on the site of the proposed new chapel, and ascertained by actual measurement the size necessary. The dimensions for Tinnock Chapel were arrived at in the same way. Father Gahan’s predecessor was Father Moore, who blessed the well at Barraderry, which is still known as “ Father Moore’s Well.” He baptized children there ; and the water used to be considered a cure for headache, and other ailments.
30. Tubber Cristamon. A blessed well, where numerous votive rags may be seen tied to a bough above the spring.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 201

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Barraderry, there's a well blessed by Father Moore, who was the parish priest before Father Gahan. He baptized children at this spring, and people long believed its water could cure headaches and other ailments. The well is still known as Father Moore's Well.

Fergus MacDonnell's Inquisition and the Manor of Tinnakill, 1637

Tinnakill · townland · Laois · 1637

Following Fergus MacDonnell's death in May 1637, an inquisition held at Maryborough established that the lands formed the Manor of Tinnakill, with rights to hold Courts Baron and Courts Leet, a deer-park, free warren, and a weekly market and annual fair held at Tinnakill on 21st September.

Read the passage

Fergus MacDonnell’ s death took place on the 9th May, 1637. In the official inquiry or Inquisition into his land possessions, which was held in Maryborough at the end of May, all the lands enumerated above are now stated to form the Manor of Tinnakill. Attached to the Manor were certain rights, jurisdictions, franchises, liberties, and privileges, with powers to hold Courts Baron and Courts Leet. The Lord of the Manor was allowed to enclose a deer-park and a free warren, with the right of chasing all game, taking by springs or nets partridges and pheasants, &c. He could compel, too, his tenants to grind their grain at the mill of the manor, of which he received the profits. He was also granted a weekly market and an annual fair, which, in this instance, took place at Tinnakill on the 21st of September, and two following days.
The Inquisition also found that Fergus, in January, 1629, had granted a lease for forty-one years of the lands of Acragar, &c., to Edward Jacob, gent., late of Dollardstown, in the County of Kildare. One of the jurors on this Inquisition was Thomas FitzGerald, of Bally mullrony, gent.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 125

Flatesbury family outlawed after the Civil War of 1641

Johnstown · townland · Kildare · 1641

The ancient Flatesbury family, resident in County Kildare since the thirteenth century, flourished until the Civil War of 1641, when its members were outlawed and every trace of the name disappeared thereafter.

Read the passage

This ancient family, of which now no trace exists, was resident in this county from a very early period, even since the thirteenth century ; and they continued to flourish until the Civil War of 1641, when the members of the family were outlawed, and from that time every vestige of, or allusion to, the name disappears.
The earliest mention of a member of this family is in the Receipts by the Crown : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 58

Garrison sent to relieve Monasterevin House, December 1642

Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 1642

Lord Moore sent salt, ammunition, and an officer with soldiers to relieve and garrison Monasterevin House, instructing that only soldiers' wives and useful persons remain, and non-essential women and children be removed.

Read the passage

“ You shall receive by the bearer, salt and ammunition for the relief of Monaster Evin, which had been sent in a more plentifull manner, if carriadge could have been more conveniently gotten, and withal ye shall receive an officer and some men who is to command in cheife that place ; therefor you must give him a due respect, and bee obedient to his command and doe such duties as he shall appoint without contention ; also you are to clear the place of all men women and children which are not soldiers wifes, nor usefull for the garrison.
“ William Parsons is to come away with ye two horses, and to take an inventory of all my Lord’s goods and bringe it with him, and put those which are of ye most value into a roome, and locke them up very safe.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 138

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Monasterevin in Kildare, you are near a house that became a garrison in December 1642. Lord Moore sent salt and ammunition for its relief, along with an officer and some soldiers to take command. The supplies would have been more plentiful, but carriage was hard to come by. Those in the house were told to respect the new commander and obey his orders without contention. All women and children who were not soldiers' wives or useful to the garrison were to be cleared from the place. William Parsons was ordered to leave with two horses, take an inventory of Lord Moore's goods, and lock the most valuable items safely in a room.

Keogh's blood cure for St. Anthony's Fire

Kiltegan · townland · Wicklow

A family of Keoghs living at a marked spot practiced a folk cure for St. Anthony's Fire, smearing the affected area with blood drawn from a finger of someone named Keogh.

Read the passage

14. Many persons suffering from the complaint of St. Anthony’s Fire have tried the remedy locally known as “ Keocka’s blood.” The affected part is smeared over with the blood of any person of the name of Keogh. At the spot marked on the map lives a family of the name who have often been applied to ; and one of them has always cut a finger to draw the blood required.
15. Donard Churchyard. Just inside the gate is the grave of Henry Gorman, who died a few years ago at the great age of 101 years.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 198

Lord Chancellor Loftus holds Court of Chancery at Monasterevin

Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 1641

In the hall of the present building the Lord Chancellor Loftus held the Court of Chancery of Ireland in 1641.

Read the passage

The present building, which was until about 1780 called “ The House of Monasterevin,” was built on the site of the ancient abbey, of which probably the only remains are the cellars and some sculptured ornaments inserted here and there in the walls. It was probably built early in the seventeenth century, as there is the date 1607 on the east wall beyond the present billiard-room. The house was repaired in 1661, and again in 1767, and 1828 ; and in 1846, on the coming of age of the late Lord Drogheda, it was much altered and modernized. In the hall of the present building the Lord Chancellor Loftus held the Court of Chancery of Ireland in 1641.
The “ Anthologia Hibernica Magazine,” vol. iii., p. 114, anno 1794, says that—

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 134

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Monasterevin in Kildare, you are near a building once called the House of Monasterevin, built on the site of an ancient abbey. The date 1607 is cut into its east wall, and the only remains of the old abbey may be its cellars and some sculptured ornaments set into the walls. In 1641, in the hall of that house, the Lord Chancellor Loftus held the Court of Chancery of Ireland. The house was repaired in 1661, again in 1767 and 1828, and much altered in 1846 on the coming of age of the late Lord Drogheda.

Lucan Spa and its rise as a health resort

near Lucan · town · Dublin · 1758–1896

Around 1758 the medicinal properties of the Sulphur Spa-well in Lucan House demesne were discovered, making Lucan a fashionable health resort for a few years before it was deserted. Its fame later revived with a new hotel, where the Society lunched during their 1896 excursion.

Read the passage

About the year 1758, the valuable medicinal properties of the Sulphur Spa-well, lying in the Lucan House demesne, were discovered, and Lucan became a fashionable health resort. Its popularity, however, only lasted for a few years, and then the place became deserted. A few years ago, however, its fame revived ; and an up-to-date hotel was built to supply the necessary accommodation. It was at this thriving establishment that our Society lunched on their Leixlip and Celbridge excursion in September, 1896.
A mile down the river, at Luttrellstown, stands what an Exchequer Record, in 1415, calls LuttrelTs Mill. The Luttrell family had, since the end of the fourteenth century, been settled

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 85

As the companion tells it

As you come through Lucan, you're passing through what was briefly a fashionable health resort. Around 1758, the medicinal properties of the sulphur spa-well in the Lucan House demesne were discovered, and the town drew visitors seeking its waters. The popularity only lasted a few years before the place was deserted. Its fame revived later with a new hotel built to supply accommodation, and it was there that the County Kildare Archaeological Society lunched on their Leixlip and Celbridge excursion in September 1896.

O'Connors of Irry rebel and forfeit lands to the Crown

Tinnakill · townland · Laois · 1548–1551

An Exchequer Inquisition taken in Naas in 1551 records that Owen mac Morishe O'Connor of Tenekylle joined Brian O'Conchor in rebellion in 1548, causing his lands in the territory of Erry (Irry) to be forfeited to the Crown. Sir Edward Bellingham sent a force to expel him from all his castles in Erry.

Read the passage

“ The Jury say on their oaths that Oyne mac Morish, on the 20th Aug. 1548 at Tenekylle, joined Brian O’Conchor, late O’Conchor, in rebellion, & forfeited the land above named to the Crown.
“That Sir Edward Bellingham, K1, Deputy of the King in Ireland, sent a force to expell the said Oyne mac Morish & his followers from all his Castles in Erry.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 247

Pagan-period sculptured boulder at Turoe

Turoe · townland · Galway

A huge egg-shaped granite boulder covered with bold Celtic ornamentation stands at Turoe in the Parish of Kiltullagh, County Galway, comparable to the Mullaghmast stone.

Read the passage

Two other sculptured boulders in Ireland of the Pagan period have within the last year or two been brought to public notice. They both consist of huge egg-shaped granite boulders, covered with bold Celtic ornamentation. One stands at Turoe, in the Parish of Kiltullagh and County of Galway ; and the other at a place called Castlestrange, in the Parish of Fuerty and County of Roscommon. Casts of both are on view in the Dublin Science and Art Museum (Irish Antiquarian Section). The sculpture on these three boulders formed the subject of a Paper read by Mr. George Coffey on the 8th of November, 1908, before the Royal Irish Academy.
W. FitzG.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 142

Patrick Sarsfield obtains lease of manor of Whitechurch, 1560

Whitechurch · townland · Kildare · 1560

In 1560, Patrick Sarsfield (Mayor of Dublin, 1558, and Sheriff of Co. Kildare, 1557) obtained a lease of the manor of White Church, alias Tullaghtipper, in County Kildare, from Jenico Preston, Viscount Gormanstown.

Read the passage

In 1560 he obtained a lease of the manor of White Church, alias Tullaghtipper, in the County Kildare, from Jenico Preston, Viscount Gormanstown ; and in the following year the Bishop and Chapter of Kildare had permission to alienate to him the manors and lands of the Bishop’s Court near Oughterard, the Bishop’s Court by the Liffey, and other possessions of the See in the county. Holinshed, in his “Chronicles of Ireland,”1 gives the following account of this worthy Dublin merchant
“There hath beene of late yeares a worshipfull gentleman named Patricke Scarsefield, that bare the office of the Maioraltie in Dublin, who kept so great part in this yeare,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 76

Shaughlin's Well and the forgotten pattern day

Sion · townland · Kildare · 1557

On the townland of Sion is Shaughlin's Glen and Shaughlin's Well, once considered a blessed well with a 'pattern' day now entirely forgotten; the site was recorded as Tippersaghlene in a 1557 Exchequer Inquisition.

Read the passage

On the townland of Sion (in the Leixlip direction) is what is called Shaughlin’s Glen, at the head of which is Sliaughlin’s Well, which in former times was considered a blessed well. The “ pattern ” day, however, is entirely forgotten. In a County Dublin Exchequer Inquisition taken in 1557, it was found that “ Tippersaghlene ” (i.e., Shaughlin’s Well, as the townland was then called) was in the possession of Thomas Luttrell, of Luttrellstown, who died on the 80th April, 1557.
The Ordnance Survey Maps mark the site of a castle not far from the well ; but no trace of it now exists. As to who Shaughlin was, even tradition is silent. It is possible he may have been a saint, and, if so, to be identified with St. Sechnall (or Shaughlin) of Dunshaughlin 1 in the County Meath, who was venerated on the 27th of November.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 20

St Brigid's Well and pattern gatherings at Riverstown

Riverstown · townland · Kildare

In the Riverstown demesne near Monasterevin there is an enclosed well about thirty feet in diameter known from time immemorial as St Brigid's Well, with remains of a small church nearby, at which patterns were said to have been held for centuries.

Read the passage

Riverstown, near M on aster evin, — Mr. A. Gore Piyder writes that in his Riverstown demesne “there is an enclosed well about thirty feet in diameter, which has been known as St. Brigid’s Well from time immemorial. There are also what I consider to be the remains of a small church close to the well. At the latter patterns are said to have been held for centuries.”
Mr. Ryder would be grateful for any information as to the history of the place.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 215

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in the Riverstown demesne near Monasterevin, there's an enclosed well about thirty feet across, known from time immemorial as St Brigid's Well. The remains of a small church stand close by, and patterns are said to have been held at the well for centuries. The owner, Mr. Ryder, was asking for any information about the history of the place.

Stone Cross Brought from Ballyknockan

Ballyknockan · townland · Wicklow

The stone cross erected at Punchestown farm buildings to commemorate the recovery of a sick cow was quarried and brought from Ballyknockan.

Read the passage

to the spot on the lower side of the course. Fearing that it was some infectious disease, he went into Naas and notified the inspector, who came out to look at the beast. He was unable to say at once what was wrong, but told Mr. Keeley that he must give information to the police. For that purpose he went into Ballymore ; but when he returned to his home, he was told that the priest had been there, had heard about the sick cow, and had blessed the cattle, and went away leaving word as to what was to be done, and saying that no more cattle would be attacked. The priest had not gone to the ditch where the cow was lying. Having heard all this, Sir. Keeley went to see how his cow was getting on, and to his astonishment found that she was no longer where he had left her ; after some search, he found her among his own cattle grazing as if nothing had been wrong with her. It seemed like a resurrection. That was the word he used. The stone cross came from Ballyknockan.
Notes on a Mediaeval Jar discovered in Sligo.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun

Surrender of Tully Commandery to the Crown, 1540

Tully · parish · Kildare · 1540

John Walyngton, the last Preceptor of Tully, surrendered the Commandery to the Crown in 1540 and was granted a pension. An inquisition records that Tully manor then contained a castle, eight messuages, a cottage, orchard, garden, watermill, and 160 acres of land.

Read the passage

Kylbegge, 280 acres ; Ballybolle, alias Balyland, 50 acres ; the Preceptory Manor of Tully, containing 1 castle, 8 messuages, 1 cottage, 1 orchard, 1 garden, 1 watermill, and 160 acres of land ; Moreton, 80 acres ; Frereton, 60 acres ; Brabessan, 6 acres ; and Terwen and Prompelan, 20 acres.
After the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII, Tully was granted to David Sutton of the Irish Privy Council.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 87

As the companion tells it

You are passing through the parish of Tully, where a medieval commandery once stood. In 1540, John Walyngton, the last Preceptor, surrendered it to the Crown and received a pension. An inquisition recorded the manor with its castle, eight messuages, a cottage, orchard, garden, watermill, and 160 acres of land. Henry VIII then granted Tully to David Sutton of the Irish Privy Council.

The Turn of the Corpse crossroads

Kilranelagh · townland · Wicklow

A crossroads near Kilranelagh is known as The Turn of the Corpse because all funerals bound for Kilranelagh must turn off the main road at this point.

Read the passage

6. This cross-roads is known as “ The Turn of the Corpse,” as all the funerals for Kilranelagh have to turn from the main road at this point.
7. This cross-roads is known as “ The Lonely Woman's Corner.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 198

Tinnakill Castle of the MacDonnell family

Tinnakill · townland · Laois · 1903

The Society visited Tinnakill Castle, ancestral stronghold of the MacDonnell family, crossing a field to reach it. Members explored the stone staircase, the upper vault of the tower, and a secret chamber built into one of the walls.

Read the passage

Starting at a quarter to eleven, a drive of four miles brought the party to Tinnakill, where a field had to be crossed on foot to reach the Castle of the MacDonnell family. Here Lord Walter FitzGerald read a short account of the place, after which several
264

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 151

Traditour conveys ordnance and substance into Castell of Lye, 1535

Lea · townland · Laois · 1535

In February 1535 John Alen, Master of the Rolls, reported that Silken Thomas had conveyed all his substance and most of his ordnance into the Castle of Lye, and urged the taking of Maynooth, Portlester, Rathangan, Carlagh, Lye and the Bridge of Athy.

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“ All men, both Irish and English, be in purpose to forsake this traditour, if his garrisons were taken. Wherefore it shall be best, both the king and you, to write to the captains, that at this March, they set to the taking of Maynoth, Portlester, Rathangan, Carlagh, Lye, and the Bridge of Athie. . . . The traditour hath conveyed all his substance and the most of his Ordnance into the Castell of Lye.”1
In March of the same year James Boice, of Calcagh, County Meath, formerly constable of Maynooth Castle, wrote to the Chancellor of the Exchequer that : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 192

Inspection of Killeshin's Hiberno-Romanesque doorway and waterfall glen

Killeshin · townland · Laois · 1904

The excursion party visited Killeshin to inspect its magnificent Hiberno-Romanesque doorway, and many members ventured down a narrow rocky path to a cave near a picturesque waterfall in the glen nearby.

Read the passage

After luncheon a drive of three miles brought the Members to Ivilleshin, where the magnificent Hiberno-Romanesque doorway was inspected, and a Paper descriptive of the locality and its history was read.
A visit, attended with some difficulties, was paid by most of those present to the waterfall in the picturesque glen close by, many venturing down the somewhat dangerous and narrow rocky path that led to the cave near the base of the falls.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 221

Ruined church and St Silvester's grave cross at Donard

Donard · town · Wicklow

Donard has a picturesque ruined old church with a burial ground containing two ancient six-foot crosses, one marking the traditional grave of St. Silvester. A fine rath also stands here.

Read the passage

There is a picturesque old church in ruins here. In the burial-ground are two ancient crosses, each 6 feet long, and in one piece; one is pointed out as marking the grave of St. Silvester.
There is a fine rath here too. Between Donard and Tuckmill is a well-defined druidical circle of large blocks of stone.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 104

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Donard in Wicklow. There's a ruined old church here with a burial ground holding two ancient crosses, each 6 feet long and cut from a single piece of stone. One is pointed out as marking the grave of St. Silvester. A fine rath stands here too, and between Donard and Tuckmill you'll find a well-defined druidical circle of large blocks of stone.

Sarsfield family outlawed and Tully Castle destroyed

Tully · parish · Kildare · 1641–1666

Peter Sarsfield of Tully was outlawed for high treason in 1641, and though the family recovered some property in 1666, the castle at Tully was eventually completely destroyed, with 'not one stone stands on another.' A house built by Mr. James Fay likely used its materials.

Read the passage

Of Tully Castle not one stone stands on another : the house lately occupied by Mr. James Fay probably was built out of the materials.
Of the Preceptory Church, too, little is now left standing, and that little is hid under ivy.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 88

As the companion tells it

You're passing through the parish of Tully, where Peter Sarsfield was outlawed for high treason in 1641. Though the family recovered some property in 1666, the castle was completely destroyed. "Not one stone stands on another," and a house built by James Fay likely used its materials. Little is left of the Preceptory Church either, hidden under ivy.

Seventeenth-century silver spoon found at Tinnakill Castle

Tinnakill · townland · Laois · 1650

The tenant on the Tinnakill property produced an old silver seal-top spoon he had found some years earlier in the ground around the castle. Sir Arthur Vicars identified it as dating from the middle of the seventeenth century.

Read the passage

of those present mounted the stone staircase in the thickness of the walls, surveyed the country from the vantage-ground of the stone upper vault of the Tower, and inspected the secret chamber formed in one of the walls. The tenant on the property, who showed a more than ordinary intelligent interest in the ruin, produced an old spoon, which he had found some years since in the ground around the Castle ; this was submitted to Sir Arthur Vicars, who at once pronounced it to be a silver seal-top spoon of the middle of the seventeenth century.
The company having resumed their seats, proceeded to Portarlington by a somewhat circuitous route, in order to avail themselves of the privilege which had kindly been extended to them of driving through Emo Park.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 152

St. Patrick's Well at Haroldstown

Haroldstown · townland · Carlow

St. Patrick is said to have visited the well at Haroldstown which bears his name, coming from St. Patrick's Well north of Rathvilly; formerly seven wells existed there with votive rags on a bush, though only one remains open.

Read the passage

St. Patrick is said to have visited the well at Haroldstown, which hears his name ; coming from the St. Patrick’s Well, north of Kathvilly. There were formerly seven wells at Haroldstown, I was told, hut only one remains open now. There used to he rags on the bush over the well, but that was many years ago. A man told me he had heard of it, but it was before his time. In looking for the well I found water trickling at many places, so that what I heard of six wells having been closed may have been perfectly accurate. Haroldstown is three miles south-east of Bathvilly.
“ The Hangman’s Bush.” This bush, an elder, is to be seen beside the road from Grange Con to Rathtoole Bridge. Accounts differ as to the way in which the name was given ; but this is the story told me by two old men named O’Hara, who were born in the neighbourhood, as their people had been before them for generations. About eighty-five or ninety years ago, three brothers, named Wilson, were living at Baronstown House, and of these, one brother was bitten by a mad dog, and his friends smothered him under a feather-bed, to put an end to his sufferings. One of the two remaining brothers hung himself from “The hangman’s bush”; and one of my informants remembers seeing the mark of the rope on the tree ; but he tells me that the elder-hush one sees now, though growing on the same spot, is not the one that was there at the time of

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 202

Lea Castle mortgaged and its role as head of the Barony of Offaly

Lea · townland · Laois · 1632

In a 1632 letter, lawyer Richard Hadsor advised George, 16th Earl of Kildare, to redeem the Castle and Manor of Lea, which had been mortgaged for £500, noting the castle was the head of the Barony of Offaly and without it the Earl could not hold that feodall title.

Read the passage

“ I sentyo1 Lop : a lettre in ffeb : last signifyinge amonge other thinges y1 I understood yt yo1 Lop : was then come to ye age of 21 yeares & advised yo1' Lop : to sue forth a speciall livery of yo1' Lops : lands & hereditamts wherein I doubt not but yt yo1 Lop : would have a fayre pas.sadge by the Earle of Corke his good assistance and ye M1 of ye Wardes, to whom by yo1' Lops marriadge you are allyed, and to redeeme ye Castle and manno1 of Lea mortgaged for 500u, ye sayd Castle beeinge ye head of ye Barony of Offaly, as by a copy of ye record thereof remayninge in ye tower of London wch I have seene may appeare, wth out which yo1' Lop : cannott be Baron of Offaly, ye same beeinge a feodall Barony. Sr Will111. Talbot will acqaint y1 Lop : who holds ye sayd Castle & Manno1 in mortgadge .
“ The next January yo1 Lop by God’s grace, will attayne to yor full age, as yo1 Uncle M1 Randall1 canne perticulerly acquaint you and then yo1' Lop : I hope will take care for sueinge forth of yo1 Livery & redeeminge of ye sayd Castle and Manno1 and bee sparinge in disposinge any part of yo1 inheritance during yo1 Lops : minority to ye prejudice of yor house. And soe I remayne

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 250

Nelson family tomb at Laraghbryan churchyard

Laraghbryan · parish · Kildare · 1714–1824

The Nelson family, former tenants of Waterstown, are buried in the churchyard of Laraghbryan, where a large table-tomb inside the church ruins records deaths of family members from 1736 to 1824.

Read the passage

“Here lie interred the remains of Mr. John Nelson of Waterstown who died on the 19th September 1736 in the 77th year of his age. As also Catherine Nelson otherwise Smith his wife, who died 2nd Deer. 1714 . . . And likewise of their youngest son Mr. John Nelson who died
the 23rd of January 1760 in the 46th year of his age. ... In memory of whom this stone was placed by their eldest son Mr. Richard Nelson ” [&c.].

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

The parish of Laraghbryan holds the Nelson family tomb inside the ruined church. John Nelson of Waterstown died on the 19th of September 1736, aged 77. His wife Catherine, otherwise Smith, died in December 1714. Their youngest son, also John, died the 23rd of January 1760, aged 46. The stone was placed by their eldest son, Richard Nelson. The tomb records further family deaths up to 1824.

Pagan-period sculptured boulder at Castlestrange

Castlestrange · townland · Roscommon

A similarly huge egg-shaped granite boulder with Celtic ornamentation stands at Castlestrange in the Parish of Fuerty, County Roscommon.

Read the passage

Two other sculptured boulders in Ireland of the Pagan period have within the last year or two been brought to public notice. They both consist of huge egg-shaped granite boulders, covered with bold Celtic ornamentation. One stands at Turoe, in the Parish of Kiltullagh and County of Galway ; and the other at a place called Castlestrange, in the Parish of Fuerty and County of Roscommon. Casts of both are on view in the Dublin Science and Art Museum (Irish Antiquarian Section). The sculpture on these three boulders formed the subject of a Paper read by Mr. George Coffey on the 8th of November, 1908, before the Royal Irish Academy.
W. FitzG.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 142

Sir Terence O'Dempsey's feudal obligations at Ballybrittas manor

Ballybrittas · townland · Laois

Sir Terence O'Dempsey held the Ballybrittas lands, containing a manor and castle, at a rent payable at Michaelmas and Easter, and was obliged to attend all 'hostings' with horsemen and bowmen, and supply a custom plough yearly to the Constable of Maryborough Castle.

Read the passage

Sir Terence O’Dempsey held these lands at a rent of d613 15s. 2d. Irish, payable in equal portions at Michaelmas and Easter. He was also obliged to attend all “ hostings/’ or “ risings out,” with the stipulated number of horsemen and bowmen ; and he had to supply one custom plough yearly, for a day, from every plough in use on the lands named in the grant, to attend at such time and place as the Constable of Maryborough Castle should appoint, or in lieu of each plough the sum of 3s. 3d. was to be paid.
In the lands mentioned above, the Inquisition states that the Countess of Kildare claimed the following as belonging to the Earl’s Manor of “ Leagh ” ■

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun

As the companion tells it

Close to Ballybrittas, Sir Terence O'Dempsey held the manor and castle. He paid rent of 6 pounds, 13 shillings and 2 pence Irish, in equal halves at Michaelmas and Easter. On top of that, he had to attend every hosting with his horsemen and bowmen, and send one custom plough for a day from every plough working these lands, wherever the Constable of Maryborough Castle directed, or pay 3 shillings and 3 pence per plough instead.

Sutton forfeiture of Tully in the Eustace Rebellion, 1580

Tully · parish · Kildare · 1580

Castletown of Kildroght and Tully belonged to the Sutton branch of the Kildare family until they forfeited their estates as a result of the Eustace Rebellion of 1580.

Read the passage

He was a son of Laurence Sutton, of Tipper, in the County Kildare, and brother of Robert Sutton, Archdeacon of Dublin, who was buried in St. Patrick’s Cathedral in April, 1528. Castletown of Kildroght belonged to this branch of the Kildare Suttons 1 till they forfeited their estates in the Eustace Rebellion of 1580, Tully included.
From the Suttons Tully passed to Sir William Sarsfield, Knt., Mayor of Dublin in 1566 ; and, as already mentioned, it passed to his second son, Patrick Sarsfield, ancestor of his namesake, the Earl of Lucan, who eventually lost it by his devotion to the Jacobite cause.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 88

As the companion tells it

You are coming into the parish of Tully. This land belonged to the Sutton branch of the Kildare family until they forfeited their estates in the Eustace Rebellion of 1580, with Tully among what was lost. From the Suttons, Tully passed to Sir William Sarsfield, who had been Mayor of Dublin in 1566, and then to his second son Patrick Sarsfield. Patrick was an ancestor of his namesake the Earl of Lucan, who eventually lost the land through his loyalty to the Jacobite cause.

Tubber Cristamon holy well near Humewood

Talbotstown · electoral division · Wicklow

Tubber Cristamon, on the townland of Talbotstown near Humewood, is the only well in the area still noted for cures. A bush beside it bears votive rags left by those seeking healing.

Read the passage

Of “blessed wells,” the only one I know of which keeps up a name for cures in my locality, is Tubber Cristamon, near Humewood, on the townland of Talbotstown. A bush beside it bears votive rags.
There used to be a chapel near St. Bernard’s Well, close to the Rampere Cross-roads, the site of which was pointed out to me by an old farmer. The well, at which Patterns were formerly held, has now nothing striking about it.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 103

Visit to the Kernanstown cromlech at Browne's Hill

Kernanstown · townland · Carlow · 1904

The Society's 1904 excursion visited the Kernanstown cromlech in Mr. Browne-Clayton's demesne at Browne's Hill, said to be one of the largest cromlechs in Ireland, where Lord Walter FitzGerald read a paper on cromlechs.

Read the passage

The rendezvous was Carlow Station, from which a start was made shortly after eleven o’clock in rather threatening weather, which, however, had passed off before the two miles that brought the company to Browne’s Hill had been covered. By the kind permission of Mr. Browne-Clayton the vehicles were permitted to enter that portion of the demesne in which is situated the Kernanstown cromlech, said to be one of the largest in Ireland.
Lord Walter FitzGerald here read a Paper treating of cromlechs in general, and of this in particular.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 220

Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (vol. 4)

The stories, best first

Chiericati describes the Earl of Kildare as chief lord of Ireland

Cloncurry Carmelite friary founded, burned in battle, suppressed

Falling Cost of Pauper Coffins in Clane Parish

Finn MacCoole's Long Stone near Percy's Castle

Fragments of a sepulchral urn recovered from Pollardstown gravel-pit

Garrisons and raiding threat around Naas and the River Liffey, c.1599

James FitzGerald's village at Harristown destroyed

Lands wasted by O'Connor's raid near Morett in 1539

MacDonnell Grant of Tinnakill Castle and Lands, 1562

Marches guarded at Moyrath (Morett) in 1289

Ogham inscribed boulder discovered at Donaghmore churchyard

Sirna Saeghlach Slain at Aillinn

Sir William Hartpole sheltered Rose O'Toole at Carlow Castle

St. Evin founds monastery at Ros-Glas, Monasterevin

Storm damage to Tinnakill Castle, February 1903

St. Ultan Tua and Fotharnaise Buried at Clane

Talbotstown Chapel built by measurement under Father Gahan

The Battle of Aillinn, AD 722

The Monk's Walk and Friar's Walk at Monasterevin

White Castle of Athy used as prison and police-barrack

1596 Grant of the Manor of Monasterevin to the Earl of Essex

Athy granted borough charter with defined limits from White Castle, 1613

Austin Cooper's 1781 description of Morett Castle ruins

Barton purchase of Grove estate, Co. Tipperary, 1744

Bronze Ring Found in the Rampart of the Rathmore Moat

Carmelite Abbey at Kildare founded by Richard de Vesci

Castle of Lyons destroyed by O'Tooles and rebuilt, destroyed again 1641

De Saundford stops at Morett Castle site in 1288 hosting

Deserted Infant Left in Widow Murphy's Garden, Clane

Doon Fort identified as Rath Bhacain near Morett Castle

Ederscel Slain at Aillinn

Father Moore's Well at Barraderry blessed for healing

Fergus MacDonnell's Inquisition and the Manor of Tinnakill, 1637

Flatesbury family outlawed after the Civil War of 1641

Garrison sent to relieve Monasterevin House, December 1642

Keogh's blood cure for St. Anthony's Fire

Lord Chancellor Loftus holds Court of Chancery at Monasterevin

Lucan Spa and its rise as a health resort

O'Connors of Irry rebel and forfeit lands to the Crown

Pagan-period sculptured boulder at Turoe

Patrick Sarsfield obtains lease of manor of Whitechurch, 1560

Shaughlin's Well and the forgotten pattern day

St Brigid's Well and pattern gatherings at Riverstown

Stone Cross Brought from Ballyknockan

Surrender of Tully Commandery to the Crown, 1540

The Turn of the Corpse crossroads

Tinnakill Castle of the MacDonnell family

Traditour conveys ordnance and substance into Castell of Lye, 1535

Inspection of Killeshin's Hiberno-Romanesque doorway and waterfall glen

Ruined church and St Silvester's grave cross at Donard

Sarsfield family outlawed and Tully Castle destroyed

Seventeenth-century silver spoon found at Tinnakill Castle

St. Patrick's Well at Haroldstown

Lea Castle mortgaged and its role as head of the Barony of Offaly

Nelson family tomb at Laraghbryan churchyard

Pagan-period sculptured boulder at Castlestrange

Sir Terence O'Dempsey's feudal obligations at Ballybrittas manor

Sutton forfeiture of Tully in the Eustace Rebellion, 1580

Tubber Cristamon holy well near Humewood

Visit to the Kernanstown cromlech at Browne's Hill