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

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Aillinn Named After a Leinster Princess

   Knockaulin · street · Kildare

   An alternative tradition holds that the hill's name derives from Aillinn, daughter of Lughaid, King of Leinster, who died on the hill and after whom it was named.

   Read the passage

   Another explanation of the name is that it is the name of a woman — Aillinn, daughter of Lughaid, King of Leinster — who died on this hill, and after whom it was called.

   In the twelfth-century Irish MS., called the “Book of Leinster,” there is a list of the principal Bath-builders in Erin, by which it appears that

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 204

   As the companion tells it

   Along here at Knockaulin, an old tradition gives the hill its name from Aillinn, daughter of Lughaid, King of Leinster. She died on this hill, and after her it was called. The story is recorded in the Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society as another explanation of the name.

2. Ancient name of Morett recorded as Magh Rechet

   Morett · townland · Laois · 976

   The ancient name of Morett was Rechet or Magh Rechet, meaning 'Rechet's plain,' and it is recorded in the Irish Annals that Congalach, son of Flann, lord of Lea and Rechet, was slain in the Battle of Belan in 976.

   Read the passage

   THE ancient name of Morett was “ Rechet,” or “ Magh Rechet,” a name meaning “ Rechet’s plain.” No mention of this place occurs in the Irish Annals, except that it is recorded that “Congalach, son of Flann, lord of Leighe (Lea) and Rechet,” was slain in the Battle of Bithlann (Belan) in the year 976.

   Magh Rechet was situated in the O’Dempsey territory of Clanmaliere, a sub-district of the O’Connor kingdom of Offaly ; and before the Queen’s County was formed in Queen Mary’s reign, it is mentioned in the “Irish State Papers ” as being in the County of Kildare, which shows that at that period the County Kildare included the Barony of Portnahinch.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 166

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here was once known as Magh Rechet, meaning Rechet's plain. The Irish Annals record only one event for this place: in 976, Congalach, son of Flann, lord of Lea and Rechet, was slain in the Battle of Belan. Magh Rechet lay in the O'Dempsey territory of Clanmaliere, a sub-district of the O'Connor kingdom of Offaly. Before Queen's County was formed in Queen Mary's reign, the Irish State Papers listed it as being in County Kildare, showing that Kildare then included the Barony of Portnahinch.

3. Ancient ruinous castle of Tinnakill held by the O'Connors

   Tinnakill · townland · Laois · 1548–1551

   A County Kildare Exchequer Inquisition taken at Naas in 1551 found that when Owen mac Morish O'Connor of Tinnakill rebelled in 1548, he possessed 'one ancient ruinous Castle in Tinekille,' indicating his family, not the MacDonnells, had built it, having been seated there for centuries.

   Read the passage

   That the Castle of Tinnakill was not built by the Mac- Donnells is proved by a County Kildare Exchequer Inquisition (No. 11 of Edward VI) taken in Naas in 1551, which found that when Owen mac Morish O’Connor, of Tinnakill, rebelled in 1548, he was in possession of “ one ancient ruinous Castle in Tinekille ” ; and as his ancestors were seated there for centuries (see Appendix under p. 297), and long before it came into the hands of the Crown, we may safely conclude that the O’Connors erected it.

   1

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 245

4. Assassination of John Cheney of Donard by rebels in 1798

   Donard · town · Wicklow · 1798

   According to Musgrave's 'Irish Rebellion', on 24 May 1798, after General Dundas retired from Kilcullen, the rebels assassinated Mr. John Cheney of Donard.

   Read the passage

   Musgrave in his “ Irish Rebellion,” p. 261, states that on the 24th of May, 1798, after General Dundas retired from Kilcullen, the rebels assassinated Mr. John Cheney, of Donard.

   James Ware, eldest son of Sir James Ware the historian, had two daughters, viz. : —

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 143

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up near Donard in Wicklow. On the 24th of May 1798, the day after General Dundas retired from Kilcullen, rebels assassinated John Cheney of this town.

5. Building of Moore Abbey house on site of old monastery

   Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 1607–1846

   The present building, called until about 1780 'The House of Monasterevin', was built on the site of the ancient abbey, with the cellars and sculptured ornaments in the walls the only likely remains; a date of 1607 is carved on the east wall.

   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

   Up ahead is Monasterevin, where Moore Abbey stands on the site of an ancient abbey. The house was called The House of Monasterevin until around 1780, and it was probably built early in the 1600s. The date 1607 is carved on the east wall, beyond the billiard-room. Of the old abbey, the only likely remains are the cellars and some sculptured ornaments set into the walls here and there. It was repaired in 1661, again in 1767 and 1828, and in 1846 it was much altered and modernized on the coming of age of Lord Drogheda. In 1641, the Lord Chancellor Loftus held the Court of Chancery of Ireland in the hall of the building.

6. Castles of Lea and Geashill delivered after Baron's death, 1203

   Lea · townland · Laois · 1203

   Following the death of Gerald fitzMaurice FitzGerald, 1st Baron of Offaly, the King commanded the Justiciary to deliver the Castles of Lea and Geashill and other lands to William Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, pending the minority of the heir.

   Read the passage

   “The King commands Meyler FitzHenry, Justiciary of Ireland, to cause to be delivered to William Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, or his messenger, the Castles of Lega and Geisil, with other lands of inheritance, whereof Gerald fitzMaurice FitzGerald (1st Baron of Offaly) was seised in his demesne as of fee at his death ; and the heir of the latter (who was Maurice, the 2nd Baron, then a minor).”2

   Maurice, the 2nd Baron, must have come of age about 1216, as in that year he obtained seisin of all the lands which Gerald, his father, held in fee on the day of his death.3 He was knighted in 1217 ; his death took place in the year 1257, when Lea, Rathangan, and Geashill (the latter a castle in the King’s County) appear to have descended to his grandson, Maurice, son of the Baron’s second son, Gerald, who had died in 1248. The “Annals of the Four Masters” state that this Maurice was drowned in the Irish Channel when returning from England in 1268. While he was still a minor, the custody of Lea was entrusted on the payment of a fine to Thomas de Clare, brother of Gilbert, 3rd Earl of Gloucester. In 1268 he sold his right of custody to Sir William de Valence, Earl of Pembroke, for the sum of 3500 marks.4 There appears to have been some

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 188

7. Charles, 6th Earl of Drogheda, repairs abbey and rebuilds church

   Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 1767

   In 1767 Charles, the 6th Earl of Drogheda, repaired the ancient abbey by enlarging windows and adding a new roof while preserving external walls, and pulled down the old church near the monastery, rebuilding it in Gothic style at the other end of town.

   Read the passage

   “ Charles, the 6th Earl of Drogheda, in 1767 beautifully repaired the ancient abbey by enlarging the windows, placing a new roof, and recompartitioning the whole, preserving, however, the external walls and original form, except somewhat lengthening the eastern front. The Great Hall and the ancient door of the southern front still retain their pristine state, and the whole has still the venerable appearance of the original Gothic structure. His lordship also pulled down the old church which stood near the monastery on the right of the east front, and rebuilt it in a neat Gothic style at the other end of the town. He also walled in the demesne writh a high wall, except on the side next the river. This demesne contains near 1,000 acres, nearly in the centre of which rises a large conical hill of 200 acres, well planted, and commanding an extensive and beautiful view of the country. Near the deerpark, on the north

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 134

   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is Monasterevin, a town with a story tied to one man's work in 1767. Charles, the 6th Earl of Drogheda, repaired the ancient abbey here that year, enlarging the windows, adding a new roof, and repartitioning the interior while preserving the external walls and original form, save for somewhat lengthening the eastern front. The Great Hall and the ancient door of the southern front still kept their pristine state, and the whole retained the venerable appearance of the original Gothic structure. He also pulled down the old church that stood near the monastery on the right of the east front, and rebuilt it in a neat Gothic style at the other end of town. His lordship walled in the demesne with a high wall, except on the side next to the river. That demesne contains near 1,000 acres, with a large conical hill of 200 acres, well planted, commanding an extensive and beautiful view of the country.

8. Colonel Vigors Renames Malcomville as Holloden near Bagenalstown

   Clorusk Lower · townland · Carlow · 1881

   In 1881 Colonel Vigors retired and settled near Bagenalstown at a place called Malcomville in the townland of Clorusk Lower, picturesquely situated on a high bank over the Barrow, renaming it Holloden after his ancestral Devon home.

   Read the passage

   In 1881 Colonel Vigors retired from the command of the 19th Regiment of Foot, and settled down near Bagenalstown, where he bought a place picturesquely situated, on a high bank over the Barrow, called Malcomville, in the townland of Clorusk Lower, a name he changed to Holloden, after the old Devon home of his ancestors.

   From this time Colonel Vigors entered heart and soul into the study of Irish archaeology in all its branches, and many a Paper from his pen was published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 146

9. Countess's belongings moved to the Castell of Ley, 1534

   Lea · townland · Laois · 1534

   James Boice, former constable of Maynooth Castle, wrote in March 1535 that immediately after the rebellion of Thomas FitzGerald in September 1534, the Countess's apparel and raiment, along with the substance belonging to the late Earl, were conveyed to the Castle of Ley.

   Read the passage

   “I certifie your Mastership, that immediately after the Rebellion of Thomas FitzGerald, I surrendrid myn office of the Constableship of Maynothe, and utterly refused the same Thomas is service ; who, in September last past (i.e., in 1534), conveyed thens unto a castell in the Irishry, called the Castell of Ley, as well all the Countasis apparayll and rayment, as all the substance, in effecte, belonging unto the late Erie, so as, at the receepte of your letter, remayned nothing of the premisses in my custodie ; and if ther had, I wold not not have failed to the utmost of my letle power, to have fulfilled the tenour of your letter.”2 3

   In 1537, among the proposals for the welfare of the country suggested by Robert Cowley, Clerk of the Crown in Chancery, to Sir Thomas Cromwell, the Lord Privy Seal, was one to the following effect : — That “ the Castell of Ley, sytuate upon the Moores and Dempsies, be manned and garded, assisted alway by the Baron of Kilcullyn (Sir Thomas Eustace) James McGeralde (i.e., FitzGerald of Osberstown, Co. Kildare), and the Countie Kildare.”3

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 192

10. Description of the Flatesbury monumental slab

    Johnstown · townland · Kildare · 1400–1499

    The Flatesbury monumental slab, a limestone monument measuring 4 feet 6 inches long, bears an eight-pointed floriated cross and two coats of arms, one for Wogan and one for Flatesbury, believed to date to the fifteenth century.

    Read the passage

    The Flatesbury monumental slab is composed of limestone, and measures 4 feet 6 inches in length, 24J inches in width at the top, and slightly tapering to 22 inches in width at the foot. The thickness varies from 6 to 8 inches.

    The carving, like much of the monumental work in Ireland of this period, is of rather a crude description ; it will be observed that even the floriated terminals of the eight-pointed cross vary. On the left side, two limbs terminate in the form of a lily, like what is called a cross flory in heraldry ; and one is merely pointed ; while, on the right side, one is flory and two are pointed.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 63

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Johnstown, the Flatesbury monumental slab lies, a limestone stone from the 1400s. It runs 4 feet 6 inches long, about 24 inches wide at the top, tapering to 22 at the foot, and 6 to 8 inches thick. Two coats of arms are carved on it, one for Wogan and one for Flatesbury. The carving is crude, as much Irish monumental work was then. An eight-pointed floriated cross spans the slab, but its terminals vary. On the left, two limbs end as lilies, like a cross flory in heraldry, and one is pointed. On the right, one is flory and two are pointed.

11. Dindsenchas verses naming Leinster princes of Alend

    Knockaulin · street · Kildare

    A translated Dindsenchas poem enumerates various Leinster princes and heroes associated with Alend (Knockaulin), including the digging of its rampart by three legendary men and the origin of the name Alend from a stone cast by Buirech.

    Read the passage

    12. Three mighty men [made] essays of trenchings — Fiach, Buirech, Aururas : it is they that without flagging — clear fact !— dug the rampart of Alend.

    13. Buirech cast from him straightway over the rampart — no weakling he ! — a stone he cast from his spear-hand ; and that is the stone (ail) in Alend (Al-end).

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 208

    As the companion tells it

    Along here is Knockaulin, the place the old verses call Alend. Three men dug its rampart — Fiach, Buirech, and Aururas. Then Buirech cast a stone over the rampart from his spear-hand, and that stone, ail, is what gives Alend its name.

12. Dunbyrne dun south of the Hill of Allen

    Dunbyrne · townland · Kildare

    To the south of the Hill of Allen is a large circular dun in fine preservation with a formidable appearance, giving its name Dunbyrne to the townland, suggesting the O'Byrnes penetrated as far north as Allen.

    Read the passage

    While the same author mentions O’Keary as the “ Scion of Almhuin ” (Allen) ; and O’Donovan was of opinion that the territory of Carbury O’Keary, in the northern part of the County Kildare, extended to Allen. To the south of the hill is a large circular dun, the entrenchments of which are still in fine preservation, and present a formidable appearance. It gives its name Dunbyrne to the townland in which it is situate ; and here we probably have evidence to show that the O’Byrnes — allies of the O’Tooles — penetrated as far north as Allen. On the south-western side of the hill, in the townland of Carrick, is a holy well called after St. Colman, where a pattern was held up to about sixty years ago, on SS. Peter and Paul’s Day. Near this well is a large rock from which the townland received its name. Dr. O’Donovan thinks that this is the Carrie Clumain mentioned in the “ Dinnseanchus of Tara.” It may he interesting to mention here that while in conversation with an old inhabitant of this district last summer, I asked him if he ever heard of “ Colman’s Fair.” “0 yes,” he replied, “ shure that

    L L

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 261

13. Famine relief road between Rampere and Baltinglass

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1845–1852

    A road was constructed during the famine years as relief work to give employment to the destitute poor, avoiding a steep hill on the direct route.

    Read the passage

    2. This road was made in the famine years to give employment to the destitute poor. It avoids a steep hill on the more direct road between Rampere and Baltinglass.

    8. This house used to be known as “ New’s Inn ” in the old coaching days ; and the fact of its having been an inn accounts for the ample stabling. I think it was in 1846 that the great contractor Dargan constructed the piece of road from this point to Eldon Bridge for the coaching service. An old map shows that there was a road here at least twenty years earlier ; but it must have been in a very bad state, as, until Dargan put it in order, the coaches travelled over the very hilly road which runs over the lower part of Baltinglass Hill, and enters the town by Chapel Hill.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 198

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Baltinglass, this road was made during the famine years to give employment to the destitute poor. It avoids a steep hill on the more direct road between Rampere and Baltinglass. The great contractor Dargan constructed a piece of road from this point to Eldon Bridge for the coaching service in 1846. An old map shows there was a road here at least 20 years earlier, but it must have been in a very bad state. Until Dargan put it in order, the coaches travelled over the very hilly road running over the lower part of Baltinglass Hill, and entered the town by Chapel Hill.

14. French Huguenot Church at Portarlington

    Portarlington · town · Laois

    During the Society's visit to Portarlington, some members took time to inspect the town and visit the French Church of the Huguenot Settlement that had formerly existed there.

    Read the passage

    On arrival at Portarlington, luncheon was served at the Imperial Hotel. Although only an hour was set apart for luncheon, a few of the more enthusiastic members of the party found time to inspect the town, and to visit the French Church of the Huguenot Settlement that formerly existed there.

    The next place to be visited was Lea Castle, situated some two miles off. Here, as also at Portarlington, some more members joined the party. Considerable time was spent in inspecting Lea Castle, which, from the extent of its ruins, apparently had at one time formed a magnificent stronghold. Lord Walter FitzGerald read a Paper on the history of the building.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 152

15. Grant of Morett Castle and lands to the FitzGeralds, 1295

    Morett · townland · Laois · 1295

    Sir Alan de la Zouche granted his castles, lands and tenements in Taghmodoe and Moyrath to John fitz Thomas FitzGerald, Baron of Offaly, for 250 marks. The deed was witnessed by the Justiciary of Ireland, fixing the date to 1295.

    Read the passage

    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.

    In 1801 the Baron was granted by King Edward “ free warren” (i.e., game rights) in his lordships of “ Maynoth, Rathingan, Leye, Gessell, Moyraliyd ( Morett ), Cor'bally, Coltath, and Rathmore, in the County of Kildare.”1

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 167

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Morett, the FitzGeralds came into possession of this manor at the end of the thirteenth century. In 1295, Sir Alan de la Zouche sold his castles, lands and tenements here to John fitz Thomas FitzGerald, Baron of Offaly, for 250 marks. The deed was witnessed by Sir John Wogan, then Justiciary of Ireland, which is how the date is fixed. The lands named in the deed were Taghmodoe and Moyrath, and the record survives in a copy held in the Earl of Kildare's Red Book.

16. Killeen-Cormac Ogham stone near Colbinstown

    Colbinstown · townland · Kildare · 1897

    The Killeen-Cormac Ogham stone near Colbinstown station has wide finger-like strokes, unlike the shallow scores on the newly found Donaghmore stone; the Society inspected it during their 1897 Moone and Timolin excursion.

    Read the passage

    A close examination of the boulder revealed that it did bear an Ogham inscription along two edges of one of its faces, and that the scores were remarkably shallow, and no wider than a broad quill-pen stroke, in no way resembling the wide finger-like strokes on the Killeen- Cormac Ogham stone, near Colbinstown station, which the Society inspected during their Moone and Timolin Excursion in 1897.

    This boulder measures 2^- feet in length, 15 inches in breadth, and 9 inches at the thickest part ; it is of the stone of the locality — a bastard limestone. It formerly served as a head-stone to a grave owned by a family named O’ Farrell ; but on their replacing it with an iron cross fixed in a small granite block (“ betther nor a twelvemonth ago,” as Pat Boyd, the caretaker of the churchyard, afterwards informed me), it was thrown to one side under the bush where I saw it, and, as luck would have it, with the inscribed face upwards : hence the discovery. Except that there is no mortar attached to it, I would have said that it had been pulled out of the neighbouring church ruins to serve its late purpose; and judging by its present appearance, it was three-fourths of its length in the ground, as only a few inches at one end are weather-stained and lichened.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 106

17. Knockaulin Hill Identified as Ancient Aillinn

    Knockaulin · street · Kildare

    Knockaulin is a 600-foot hill near Old Kilcullen, identified in the Irish Annals as 'Aillinn'. It is distinguished from the Hill of Allen (Almhuin), the residence of Finn Mac Coole nine miles to the north.

    Read the passage

    KNOCKAULIN is the name of a hill 600 feet in height, which stands close to, and on the north-west side of Old Kilcullen. In the “ Irish Annals ” this place is always called “ Aillinn .” Knockaulin, or Aillinn, must not be confused with another very remarkable hill, now called the Hill of Allen, which is written “ Almhuin” in the “Irish Annals.” The latter rises to a height of 676 feet, and stands, as the crow flies, nine miles away to the north of Knockaulin ; in the third century it was the chief residence of the famous champion, Finn Mac Coole, who was slain in the year a.d. 283. Rathcoole, in the County Dublin, on the Kildare borders, was the residence of Finn’s father, and took its name (Coole’s Rath, or Fort) from him.

    One of the explanations of the name “ Aillinn ,” as given in an ancient Irish MS., called the Dindsenchas,1 2 is as follows : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 203

    As the companion tells it

    Along here stands Knockaulin, a 600-foot hill close to Old Kilcullen. The Irish Annals always call this place Aillinn, and it must not be confused with the Hill of Allen, written as Almhuin in the same Annals, which rises to 676 feet some 9 miles to the north. That other hill was the chief residence of the famous champion Finn Mac Coole in the third century, until he was slain in the year 283. His father lived at Rathcoole, on the Kildare borders in County Dublin, a place that took its name from him as Coole's Rath, or Fort. An ancient Irish manuscript called the Dindsenchas offers an explanation of the name Aillinn.

18. Leixlip passes to Luttrellstown family via remarriage

    Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1627

    After Sir Thomas Alen's death without issue in 1627, his widow remarried Simon Luttrell of Luttrellstown, carrying with her the town of Leixlip from her first husband's estates.

    Read the passage

    Sir Thomas Alen, Knight, was created a Baronet by James I 16th February, 1621, the patent setting forth that “the honour was conferred in consideration of the great services rendered to the State by Archbishop Alen.” Sir Thomas married * first Mary Fleming, daughter of William, 16th Baron of Slane, who died 18th November, 1622, and was buried at Donacomper ; he married, secondly, Mary Preston, eldest daughter of Jenico, 5th Viscount Gormanston, and died s. p., 8th March, 162f (will dated 1st March, 162f ; proved 18th April, 1627), when the Baronetcy became extinct. His widow remarried with Simon Luttrell, of Luttrellstown, Co. Dublin, to whom she carried the greater portion of her first husband’s estates, including the town of Leixlip.

    Robert Alen, of St. Wolstan’s, heir to his brother, Sir Thomas, married Jane, daughter of John Sarsfield, of Lucan, Co. Dublin (by Margaret, daughter of Sir Luke Dillon, Knt.), but d. s. p., 1641, when he was succeeded by his nephew, John Alen, on whose death, s. p. m., in 166*2, the estates reverted to Nicholas Alen, his uncle.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 68

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Leixlip, you are passing through a town that changed hands by marriage in 1627. Sir Thomas Alen, made a Baronet by James I in 1621, held these estates. He married first Mary Fleming, daughter of the Baron of Slane, who died in 1622 and was buried at Donacomper. His second wife was Mary Preston, eldest daughter of the Viscount Gormanston. Sir Thomas died without issue on the 8th of March 1627, and the Baronetcy became extinct. His widow then married Simon Luttrell of Luttrellstown, and she carried with her the greater portion of her first husband's estates, including the town of Leixlip. Robert Alen of St. Wolstan's, Sir Thomas's brother and heir, married Jane Sarsfield of Lucan but also died without issue in 1641, and the estates passed to his nephew John Alen, and then to Nicholas Alen. So the town you are passing through left the Alen family through that widow's second marriage.

19. Lost foundations of Timolin's monastery and castle

    Timolin · townland · Kildare · 1873–1903

    Local tradition held that extensive foundations existed below the sod in a field opposite Timolin church, and that thick ancient walls with arches once stood behind the village street, but by 1903 all memory of which was the monastery and which the castle had been forgotten.

    Read the passage

    On this occasion I made further inquiries as to the whereabouts of the site of the Monastery and of the Castle of Timolin, Shannon informed me that he had heard from the old people that in the field on the opposite side of the tail-race to the church extensive foundations of buildings exist below the sod ; and Dan O’Shaughnessy, of Kilkea, tells me that he remembers seeing ancient thick walls with arches in them, some thirty years ago, standing at the back of the one-sided street of Timolin, not far from the mill, in a plot formerly held by a man named Darby Doolan. It is, however, impossible now to say which was the Monastery and which the Castle (if indeed either), as all tradition in connection with them has been forgotten.

    W. FitzG.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 110

20. Lyons church ruins and the Aylmer family seat

    Lyons · townland · Kildare · 1300–1799

    At Lyons, an old church ruin near the present house was visited, where H. Hendrick-Aylmer read a paper on the place, noting that Lyons was the original seat of the Aylmer family from 1300 to the close of the eighteenth century. Sixteenth-century armorial carvings of the Aylmer family, their tombs, and the burial-place of the Lawless family are found among the ruins.

    Read the passage

    Most of the company then wended their way on foot through the fields to visit all that is left of an old collegiate foundation hard by. Here a downpour of rain delayed the progress of the excursion ; but it was not long before the company were on their way towards Lyons, passing through a beautiful country, and through the fine park of Lord Cloncurry. A stop was made at the old church ruins situated not far from the present house, where an interesting Paper on the place was read by Mr. H. Hendrick-Aylmer, whose ancestors in ancient days lived here, Lyons being the original seat of the Aylmer family from 1300 to the close of the eighteenth century.

    In the grounds amongst the ruins may be seen some sixteenth-century armorial carvings of the Aylmer family and their tombs, where also is the burial-place of the Lawless family. A delay, caused by a short shower, was utilized by some for a snatch luncheon, as on this occasion it had not been

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 50

21. Manor of Tully granted fairs and markets

    Tully · parish · Kildare · 1628

    In 1628 the lands of Tully were erected into a Manor with liberty to hold two fairs, one at Tully on St. Bartholomew's Day and the other at Rosberry on St. Swithin's Day, along with weekly markets at both places.

    Read the passage

    Of Peter Sarsjield, of Tally, very iittle is recorded. In 1628 the lands of Tully were erected into a Manor, to be called the Manor of Tully ; with liberty to hold two fairs, one at Tully on the 21th of August, St. Bartholomew’s Bay ; and the other at Rosberry on the 15th of July, St. SwithiiPs Bay ; he was also allowed two markets weekly, on Wednesdays, at Tully, and on Saturdays, at Rosberry.1 At the time Peter Sarsfield succeeded at Tully, he was seised in fee of the manor or preceptory of Tully, and the lands of Friarstown and Brallistown, containing a castle, ten farmsteads, a watermill, and 226 acres ; Rosberry, Scarletstown, Moortown, and Richardstown, containing a castle, ten farmsteads, and 150 acres ; and the rents of Nurney, Clongorey, Loughbrone, alias Loughbroghan (? Louglibrown), Carne, and Cornelscourt.2

    Peter Sarsfield was implicated in the rebellion of 1641, for which he was outlawed, and his possessions forfeited to the Crown. His wife was Ellenor O’Bempsy, daughter of Sir Terence, 1st Viscount Clanmalier; by her he had a son : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 79

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through the parish of Tully in Kildare, this was the seat of Peter Sarsfield. In 1628 the lands were erected into the Manor of Tully, with liberty to hold two fairs, one at Tully on the 24th of August, St. Bartholomew's Day, and the other at Rosberry on the 15th of July, St. Swithin's Day. Weekly markets were granted too, on Wednesdays at Tully and Saturdays at Rosberry. Sarsfield held the manor or preceptory of Tully, with Friarstown and Brallistown, a castle, ten farmsteads, a watermill, and 226 acres. He also held Rosberry, Scarletstown, Moortown, and Richardstown, with a castle, ten farmsteads, and 150 acres, plus rents from Nurney, Clongorey, Loughbrone, Carne, and Cornelscourt. He was implicated in the rebellion of 1641, outlawed, and his possessions forfeited to the Crown. His wife was Ellenor O'Bempsy, daughter of Sir Terence, 1st Viscount Clanmalier, and they had a son.

22. Memory of Colman's Fair surviving as the Fair of Rathbride

    Rathbride · townland · Kildare · 1830–1891

    An old inhabitant of the district near the Hill of Allen recalled to the author that the old name of the Fair of Rathbride had been 'Colman's Fair', suggesting continuity with the ancient Aonech Cholmain mentioned in the Dinnseanchus of Tara.

    Read the passage

    was the oulcl name of the Fair of Bathbride.” Can Bathbride have been the site of the “ Aonech Cholmain ” ?

    The district about the Hill of Allen being entirely surrounded by bog and marshes was called “The Island,” and was the scene of many sanguinary engagements between “ Cromwell’s Ironsides” and the Boyalist Forces. The object of the former being to capture the Castle of Kilmeague (Cill Maedhoc, i.e., “the Church of St. Maedhoc ”). This stronghold, which stood about a mile east to the hill, was in possession of a branch of the FitzGeralds, who were descended from the Knights of Kerry, of the Great House of Desmond. In a letter addressed by the Cromwellian General, Hewson, to “the Honourable William Lenthal, Speaker of the Parliament of England,” and dated from Ballyshannon, 3rd March, 1650, he thus refers to his campaign in this district : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun

23. O'Connor of Irry restores rents to Morett tenants, 1540

    Morett · townland · Laois · 1540

    Owen mac Murrough O'Connor, Chief of Irry, submitted to the Lord Deputy and agreed to restore to the inhabitants of the king's land of Morett the rents and tributes he had exacted from them, following the forfeiture caused by Silken Thomas.

    Read the passage

    In 1540, Owen mac Murrough (or Maurice) O’Connor, Chief of Irry, made his submission to the Lord Deputy, Sir Anthony St. Leger, and the Council ; and, among other conditions, he agreed to restore to all the inhabitants of the king’s land of Morett (forfeited by the Silken Thomas, 10th Earl of Kildare) the rents and tributes he had been exacting from them.2 The Irry here mentioned was a sub-district in the western half of the Barony of Portnahinch.

    In 1556 the Fiants record the pardon of Oliver FitzGerald “ of Morreyt, in the County of Kildare, Gent. ” ;3 he was probably the same Oliver FitzGerald of Shanganagh (Barony of Slievemaragy), Queen’s County, who with his wife Giles O’More, were pardoned by the Crown again in 1566. It is not at all unlikely that he, too, was the father of Richard FitzGerald of Moyrett, who, together with William and Henry FitzGerald of the same place, “ Gentlemen,” were granted pardons in September, 1574.4

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 167

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Morett, in 1540, Owen mac Murrough O'Connor, Chief of Irry, made his submission to the Lord Deputy, Sir Anthony St. Leger, and the Council. Among the conditions, he agreed to restore to all the inhabitants of the king's land of Morett the rents and tributes he had been exacting from them. The land had been forfeited by Silken Thomas, the 10th Earl of Kildare. Irry itself was a sub-district in the western half of the Barony of Portnahinch. Later records bring more names connected to this place. In 1556, the Fiants record the pardon of Oliver FitzGerald of Morreyt, in the County of Kildare, described as a gentleman. He was probably the same Oliver FitzGerald of Shanganagh, Queen's County, who with his wife Giles O'More was pardoned again in 1566. He may also have been the father of Richard FitzGerald of Moyrett, who together with William and Henry FitzGerald of the same place were granted pardons in September 1574.

24. Old octagonal font relic at Emo Park attributed to 'Lord Henry'

    Emo Park · townland · Laois

    An interesting relic of pre-Reformation times, a large octagonal limestone font-head richly carved with angels and foliage, is placed on a base among yew-trees at Emo Park. It is said to have lain neglected in the grounds for a long time before being placed where it now stands by 'Lord Henry'.

    Read the passage

    There is a tradition1 that a monastery existed at Emo in ancient times, hut there appears to be no historical foundation for it. An interesting relic of pre-Reformation times is a large octagonal limestone head of a font, which has been placed on a base in a clump of yew-trees between the house and the garden. From whence it came is unknown, but it is said to have been lying neglected for a long time in the grounds till placed where it now stands by “Lord Henry” (? the third Earl of Portarlington).

    The Font at Emo Park.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 122

25. Patrick Sarsfield's wish to be buried at Tully chapel

    Tully · parish · Kildare · 1631

    Patrick Sarsfield of Tully, in his will proved in 1631, expressed the wish that his body should be buried in the chapel of Tully. He also left money to priests of the diocese of Kildare.

    Read the passage

    Patrick Sarsfield’s will is not dated ; but it was proved on the 4th May, 1631 ; in it he expresses the wish that his body should “ be buryed in the chaple of Tully.5’ He makes his eldest son, Peter, his executor. The last items in the will are

    “And further my will is I leave to father Peter Geoghane fiftene pounds str., to be recived out of the Tyeth of ballygrene.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 79

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is the parish of Tully. Patrick Sarsfield of Tully made a will that was proved in 1631, asking that his body be buried in the chapel of Tully. He named his eldest son, Peter, as his executor, and left 15 pounds to Father Peter Geoghane, to be taken from the tithe of Ballygrene.

26. Rath with underground chambers near Lucan

    near Lucan · town · Dublin

    South of Lucan town, along the road to the railway station, stands a rath-crowned hill containing caved passages and chambers of dry walling roofed with slabs. These are believed to have served as grain-stores or hiding-places in times of danger.

    Read the passage

    Southwards from the town, a short distance along the road leading to the Railway (G. S. & W.) Station is a rath-crowned hill ; the rath is caved, with passages and chambers of dry walling, and roofed with slabs. These chambers are supposed to have been used as grain-stores ; and possibly they served as hiding-places in times of danger.

    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.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 85

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Lucan, south of the town along the road to the railway station, there's a hill crowned with a rath. It's caved in, but passages and chambers of dry walling remain inside, roofed over with slabs. They're thought to have been grain-stores, or perhaps hiding-places in times of danger. Lucan itself had a brief moment of fashion around 1758, when the Sulphur Spa-well in the Lucan House demesne was discovered and the place became a health resort. That popularity only lasted a few years before the place was deserted again.

27. Ruined chapel and Dwyer burial at Kilranelagh Churchyard

    Kilranelagh · townland · Wicklow

    The author examined the ruined walls of the old chapel at Kilranelagh churchyard, finding them barely 12 feet wide by 40 feet in length. A flat stone at the east end bears two Dwyer names, and John Dwyer was said to be buried between that stone and the north wall.

    Read the passage

    In continuation of what I stated on page 148 (vol. iv), I should like to add that I asked a third brother of the Cases about his mother and grandfather, and their names were Jane and John Dwyer. I went to the old churchyard at Kilranelagh and found the site of the chapel. The ruined walls show that it was barely 12 feet wide (inside measurement), by about 40 in length. At the east end, in the centre, there is a flat stone, bearing two Dwyer names, and I was told John Dwyer was buried between that and the wall on the north side. There is a “ Wishing Well ” in

    Ballynure Cross-roads, close to the demesne wall.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 115

28. Sculptured sepulchral slab of Flatesbury and Wogan in Johnstown Churchyard

    Johnstown · townland · Kildare · 1200–1641

    An ancient sculptured sepulchral slab in Johnstown Churchyard bore arms revealing an alliance between the Flatesbury and Wogan families, who resided in the area from the thirteenth century until being outlawed after the Civil War of 1641.

    Read the passage

    SOME years ago our President showed me an ancient sculptured sepulchral slab in the Johnstown Churchyard, and asked me whether I could ascertain whom it commemorated. At that time I knew very little about the history of the locality ; but as it was quite evident that the arms on the slab showed an alliance, I looked them up, and discovered them to be those of Flatesbury and Wogan. Further research revealed the fact that the family who resided here in early times was that of Flatesbury; and a reference to the pedigree of the family showed two marriages of Flatesbury and Wogan, one in the fifteenth and the other in the sixteenth century.

    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.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 58

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here in Johnstown Churchyard, there's an old sculptured sepulchral slab that commemorates an alliance between two families, the Flatesburys and the Wogans. The arms carved on the slab reveal that alliance, and research turned up two marriages between the families, one in the 1400s and one in the 1500s. The Flatesburys were resident in this county from as far back as the 1200s, and they flourished here until the Civil War of 1641. After that, the members of the family were outlawed, and from that point every trace of the name disappears. Now no vestige of the family remains, only this slab standing in the churchyard.

29. Sir Maurice Eustace, Lord Chancellor, resided at Harristown

    Harristown · townland · Kildare

    Sir Maurice Eustace, the Lord Chancellor of Ireland, resided at Harristown in County Kildare, near Ballymore-Eustace, and also had a residence on Damask Street (later renamed Eustace Street) in Dublin.

    Read the passage

    Sir Maurice Eustace, the Lord Chancellor, resided at Harristown in the County Kildare, near Ballymore-Eustace, and in Damask Street, or Eustace Street as it is now called ; his father John was a younger son of William Eustace, of Castlemartin.

    ^Funeral Entry states that “ Barbara, daughter of Rich. Longe, sometime one of the Clarkes of the Chauncery, deceased the 20th of February, 1624 ; she was mar. to Edmond Keatinge.” This possibly was the first wife of Edmond Keating, of Narraghmore.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 182

30. Sir Terence O'Dempsey's wardship granted to Francis Cosby after his uncle's death

    Clonygowan · townland · Offaly · 1576

    After Owny mac Hugh O'Dempsey died in 1576 without male issue at Clongawnagh, his nephew Sir Terence O'Dempsey became heir while still a minor, and his wardship was granted to Francis Cosby of Leshenhall for a fine.

    Read the passage

    states that “ Onie me Hugh O’Dempsie, late of Clongawnagh,” died on the 3rd of September, 1576, without male issue ; that his brother Terence had also died without male issue ; and that Sir Terence O’Dempsey1 was the next heir, viz. — son and heir of Dermot “ ore,” brother of the said Owny and Terence, sons of Hugh O’Dempsey.

    Dermot “ ore ” (i.e. the pale) had at least two other children, Lisagh O’Dempsey, of Clonyhurk, in the King’s County, as well as a daughter named Egidia, or Gyles, wife of Ross mac Conley M‘Geoghegan, of Moycushel, Chief of Kineleagh, in the County Westmeath, who was slain in 1580. She survived him, and in 1582 received from the Crown a grant for life, of the lands of Rathnemodagh and Atteduff, in tbs' County Westmeath, late the possessions of Brian M‘Geoghegan, attainted. And again in 1585 she is mentioned as obtaining a lease from George Colley, of the Monastery of White-Friars of Kilcormac (now called Frankford), in the King’s County.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 234

31. St. Brigid's Well and the kneeling-stones at Brallistown

    Brallistown · townland · Kildare

    The true St. Brigid's Well is located, in a neglected state, on common ground called 'The Grallach' in the townland of Brallistown near Tully churchyard. Nearby lie two stones known as 'St. Brigid's kneeling-stones,' which are actually water-shoot stones from the old church or castle battlements.

    Read the passage

    By the roadside near Tully House is a well or basin built of cut stone, the work of the Board of Works, which by some people is called St. Brigid’s Well; but this is an error, as the real St. Brigid’s Well is situated, in a neglected state, on a bit of commons called “The Grallach ” (i.e., a miry-place), in the townland of Brallistown close by, to the south of the churchyard. A strong, clear flow of water issues from it, and flows into the gripe of the neighbouring ditch, in which, side by side, lie two stones known as “ St. Brigid’s kneeling-stones,” through which the water passes. These stones are in reality a couple of water-shoot stones from either the top of the church-walls, or from the top of the former castle, and lay just below the battlements ; they measure 82 inches in length, 12 inches in breadth, with a groove or channel 8 inches wide running down their length, except for the last 10 inches, where it is bored through the stones.

    The boggy ground lying round Tully is the source of the stream, which joins the Finnery Biver at Boherbawn (famous for its coursing-matches in years gone by), which eventually joins the Barrow just above the ruins of Kilberry, which were visited by the Society during their Athy Excursion Meeting in 1892.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 89

32. Sudden death of Elizabeth Zouche at Lucan

    near Lucan · town · Dublin · 1517

    In 1517 Elizabeth, daughter of Sir John Zouche and first wife of the 9th Earl of Kildare, died suddenly at Lucan and was buried in the New Abbey of Kilcullen, where the Earl's mother had also been interred.

    Read the passage

    In 1517, on the 6th of October, Elizabeth, daughter of Sir John Zouche, and the first wife of Sir Garrett oge (i.e., the younger), 9th Earl of Kildare, died suddenly at Lucan, and was buried in the New Abbey of Kilcullen, where the Earl’s mother, Alison, daughter of Sir Rowland Eustace, Lord Portlester, had been interred.4

    At the time of his son, the Silken Thomas’s, Rebellion in 1534, the 9th Earl was seised in fee of —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 82

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Lucan, there is a death here from 1517. On the 6th of October that year, Elizabeth, daughter of Sir John Zouche and first wife of the 9th Earl of Kildare, died suddenly at Lucan. She was buried in the New Abbey of Kilcullen, where the Earl's mother, Alison, daughter of Sir Rowland Eustace, Lord Portlester, had also been laid to rest.

33. The Bull's Foot stone legend

    Knockpatrick · townland · Clare

    A stone by the roadside bears the print of a bull's foot, connected by legend to the human footprint at Knockpatrick and the hound's foot at Killeen Cormac.

    Read the passage

    22. The Bull’s Foot. This is the print of a bull’s foot on a stone which can he easily found by the roadside, where a place has been arranged for climbing over the bank. There is a legend which connects this stone with the impression of the human foot on the stone at Knockpatrick, and the hound’s foot at Killeen Cormac.

    28. Old Mr. Neill, of Tinoran, who died some twelve years ago, remembered when Tober Sool was considered a blessed well, and a pattern was held there. This was discontinued after a very savage fight, in which forty or fifty men engaged armed with sticks. Happily, no one was killed.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 200

34. The Castle of Coolbanagher: description of ivy-clad ruin

    Coolbanagher · townland · Laois · 1658–1891

    The Castle of Coolbanagher, forfeited from the Hartpole family and passing to Sir Richard Parsons, ancestor of the Earls of Rosse, consists of an oblong tower measuring 36 by 26 feet outside, heavily covered in ivy. The interior has been destroyed by modern alterations, and the original pointed-arch entrance with iron grate grooves survives in the north wall.

    Read the passage

    At the present time the Castle of Coolbanagher consists of an oblong butt of considerable height, but so hid under ivy as to be uninteresting. It measures outside 36 feet by 26 feet. The interior has been destroyed by modern alterations ; openings have been made here and there with lintels formed of timber, fast rotting to decay.

    In the middle of the north wall remains the original entrance (now built up), which is a pointed arch of cut limestone. The groove runs round it in which “ the grate,” or outer ironbarred door, fitted. And at the top and the right-hand side in the grove are holes through which the chains securing the door were passed and fixed on the inside.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 177

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here stands the Castle of Coolbanagher, forfeited from the Hartpole family and passing to Sir Richard Parsons, ancestor of the Earls of Rosse. What remains is an oblong tower, 36 by 26 feet outside, but so hidden under ivy as to be, in the words of the source, "uninteresting." The interior has been destroyed by modern alterations, with timber-linteled openings already rotting away. The original pointed-arch entrance of cut limestone survives, built up in the north wall, still bearing the groove where an iron barred door once fitted, and the holes through which chains secured it.

35. The Economy Estate rents fall dramatically 1806 to 1899

    Clane · town · Kildare · 1806–1899

    Lands known as 'The Economy Estate' near Clane were let by public bidding in 1806 at rents up to £4 11s per acre, totaling over £94, but by 1899 the total rent had fallen to only £40 14s.

    Read the passage

    In a former paper I gave some account of what is called “ The Economy Estate,” and its probable origin. These lands fell out of lease in 1806; and a Vestry was held to receive proposals for the said lands, which were let to the highest bidders. It is interesting to compare the rent in 1806 with that in 1834, and again in 1901. In 1806 the highest rent was £4 11s. per acre, and ranged from that down to £2 — total rent, over £94. In 1899 the total rent only amounted to £40 14s.

    In the early part of the last century Clane Parish boasted of a lady of some literary repute in her day — Mrs. Griffith, wife of Richard Griffith, Esq., of Millicent. She survived her husband, and died at Millicent in February, 1798. Her fame was thus recorded under the Domestic Intelligence in Exshaiv’s Gentleman' s ancl London Magazine : — “ This lady was not more celebrated for the brilliancy and refinement of her genius in the republic of letters, than she was admired and beloved in private life for the vivacity of her wit, and the integrity

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 30

36. The Ivy Chapel burial-ground at Acragar

    Acragar · townland · Laois · 1736

    Acragar Churchyard, known as 'The Ivy Chapel' burial-ground, sits on a hillock resembling a circular pagan burial-moat, covered with flat tomb slabs. The earliest marks the grave of Theady Dunn, who died in 1736, and the ancient name of the site is recovered as Kilmongan.

    Read the passage

    Acragar Churchyard, known as “ The Ivy Chapel” burial-ground. This churchyard is situated on a hillock, very closely resembling a circular pagan burial-moat, the top and sides of which are covered with flat tomb slabs, the earliest of which marks the grave of one “ Theady Dunn, who departed this life the 24th of October, in the year of our Lord God 1736, aged 70 years. The Lord have mercy on his soul.” The only trace of the chapel now visible is a portion of a limestone window-sill with a central mullion, the very foundations having disappeared. The only solution to the name is that the ruins must at one time have been clothed with ivy. Though the original name has for a long time been lost, yet from two sources, I believe, 1 have been able to recover it : —

    1. On the facsimile of a hand-painted map of the territories of Leix and Offaly, drawn about the year 1563, 2 a churchyard, close beside the name “ Acargar,” is shown as “ Kilungay.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 122

37. The meaning and origin of the name Tinnakill

    Tinnakill · townland · Laois · 1562–1563

    The name 'Tinnakill' means 'the house of the wood'; at the time of the castle's erection the surrounding country was covered with forests, as shown on an old map of 1563. The builder of the castle is uncertain, though it was already standing at the time of the 1562 grant.

    Read the passage

    The name “ Tinnakill ” means “ the house of the wood” ; at the time of its erection the country round was covered with forests, as is shown in the old map of 1563 (mentioned in the description of the barony). By whom the castle was built is uncertain, as the grant of 1562 to the MacDonnells included “ the castle and land of Tenekyll,” &c., so that it must have been then standing.

    Vol. ii (1854).

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 126

38. Thomas Alen granted the dissolved Priory of Kilteel

    Kilteel · parish · Kildare · 1539

    On the Dissolution, Thomas Alen obtained a grant of the dissolved Priory of Kilteel near Rathmore, Co. Kildare, including the preceptory of Killhill and the town and castle of Kilbride, conveyed by Sir John Rawson in 1539.

    Read the passage

    Thomas Alen, second son of Warm, came to Ireland with his brother, Sir John, the Lord Chancellor, and was appointed (27 Henry VIII) Clerk of the Hanaper and Head Chamberlain of the Exchequer: — “Appointment of Thomas Alen, son of Warin Alen, deceased, to office of Head Chamberlain of the Exchequer” (August 27th, Henry VIII). On the 5th August, 1550 (4 Edward VI), he was appointed Constable of Wicklow Castle for life. On the Dissolution he obtained a grant of the dissolved Priory of Kilteel, near Ratlimore, Co. Kildare, by a conveyance executed on the last of February, 1589, whereby Sir John Rawson, Knt., Prior of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem, at Kilmainham, near Dublin, and his brethren, granted to Thomas Alen and Mary his wife the preceptory of Killhill (Kilteel), the town and castle of Kilbride, &c. Thomas Alen married Mary, daughter (or, perhaps, niece) and co-heiress of Sir John Rawson, Knight, last Prior of Kilmainham, created Viscount Clontarf.1

    By his wife, Mary Rawson, Thomas Alen had issue a

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 66

39. Tomb of Rev. Christopher Hewetson at Mylerstown churchyard

    Mylerstown · townland · Kildare · 1698–1699

    The Rev. Christopher Hewetson, eldest son of the Rector of St Werburgh's, Dublin, desired in his 1698 will to be buried close to the church door of Mylerstown, where his tomb and inscription survive in the churchyard.

    Read the passage

    1. The Rev. Christopher Hewetson, of Clonough, or Clonuff, County Kildare, was the eldest son of the Rev. William Hewetson, Rector of St. Werburgh’s, Dublin, by Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas Ram, Bishop of Ferns and Leighlin. In his will dated 4th November, 1698, and proved 26th April, 1699, he desires to be buried close to the church door of Mylerstown. He married Anne Janns, and left a son and three daughters. In the “ Memoirs of the House of Hewetson, or Hewson, of Ireland,” by John Hewetson (1901), he is erroneously called “Esq.” In the same work this inscription is incorrectly given, being quoted from the “Life of Bishop Wilson,” by the Rev. John Keble, who writes thus : — “ By the kindness of the present Vicar (1868) the Rev. Francis Hewson (of the Kerry Branch), I learn that there exists, ‘ close to the walls of the old church at Mylerstown,’ a flat stone, partly covered with earth, with an inscription very much obliterated. I was able,” says Mr. Hew~son, “ by rubbing grass to it, &c., to decipher, 4 Here

    lies the Body of the learned and pious Divine M 1 He....o. ,

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 215

40. Tomb-slab of James FitzGerald at St. Brigid's Cathedral, Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1618–1624

    James FitzGerald of Drinnanstown, who died in 1618, and his wife Mary Wogan, who died in 1624, were buried at St. Brigid's Cathedral in Kildare, where their tomb-slab still survives.

    Read the passage

    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.

    On the 5th February, 1682, Ellis FitzGerald, alias Davills, “ widow of Walterstowne/* petitioned the Earl of Kildare for a further lease of the lands of “ ffasagh-nearler,” alias Ballybrackan, near Kildare.2

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 241

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare town, St. Brigid's Cathedral holds a tomb-slab for James FitzGerald of Drinnanstown, who died on the 24th of June, 1618, and his wife Mary Wogan, daughter of William Wogan of Rathcoffey, who died on the 15th of April, 1624. They were buried here, and the slab still survives.

41. Vesey family burial-place monument at Lucan Castle

    near Lucan · town · Dublin · 1738–1788

    Beside the Castle at Lucan is the private burial-place of the Vesey family, containing a mural monument dated 1738/1788 in black and white marble depicting a child leaning over a medallion with a man's head, erected to Agmondisham Vesey by his widow Jane Lady Butler.

    Read the passage

    “ This Chappel was repair’d by Jane Lady Bntler, and this Monument Erected to the Memory of her dearly Beloved Husband A.Y. deceased the 23d of March An: Domi: 1738 with whom she is interr’d Where thou dyest there will I dye, and Where thou art buryed, there mil I be buryed also.”

    The rather insignificant initials A.Y. stands for Agmondisham Yesey, who, as mentioned above, married Charlotte, daughter

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 83

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Lucan, the Castle grounds hold a private burial-place of the Vesey family. Jane Lady Butler repaired the chapel and erected a monument there to her husband Agmondisham Vesey, who died on the 23rd of March 1738. She is interred with him. The inscription bears her words: "Where thou dyest there will I dye, and where thou art buryed, there will I be buryed also."

42. Betaghstown Estate endowment for a Protestant boarding-school at Clane

    Clane · town · Kildare

    Dr. Hewetson bequeathed the Betaghstown Estate and other lands as an endowment for a boarding-school for the children of poor Protestant parents, located in the Parish of Clane, providing free board, clothing, and education for fourteen or fifteen boys.

    Read the passage

    I cannot identify the Christopher Hewetson mentioned in Lord Walter FitzGerald’s query, but conjecture that he was some relation to, perhaps the father of, the Rev. Michael Hewetson, by whose influence with Moreton, Bishop of Kildare, Thomas Wilson, well known afterwards as the saintly Bishop of Sodor and Man, was ordained deacon upon St. Peter’s Day, 1686, though wanting some months of the canonical age. A member of the same family, Dr. Hewetson, bequeathed the Betaghstown Estate and other lands as an endowment for a boarding-school for the children of poor Protestant parents. The school is in the Parish of Clane, and provides free board, clothing, and education for fourteen or fifteen boys.

    Michael Hewetson was Presbyter, and Prebendary of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin, and a freeman of the town of Kildare.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 184

43. Blessed Well dedicated to St. John dried up near Tully

    Tully · parish · Kildare

    A Blessed Well dedicated to St. John, a quarter mile northeast of Tully churchyard, dried up after a well for the Kildare Town Waterworks was sunk nearby. Its site is still marked by an old whitethorn tree and a large stone.

    Read the passage

    A quarter of a mile to the north-east of the churchyard is a Blessed Well dedicated to St. John ; but since a well in connection with the Town of Kildare Waterworks was sunk near it, the Blessed Well has dried up. Its site is still marked by an old whitethorn, with a large stone beside it.

    By the roadside near Tully House is a well or basin built of cut stone, the work of the Board of Works, which by some people is called St. Brigid’s Well; but this is an error, as the real St. Brigid’s Well is situated, in a neglected state, on a bit of commons called “The Grallach ” (i.e., a miry-place), in the townland of Brallistown close by, to the south of the churchyard. A strong, clear flow of water issues from it, and flows into the gripe of the neighbouring ditch, in which, side by side, lie two stones known as “ St. Brigid’s kneeling-stones,” through which the water passes. These stones are in reality a couple of water-shoot stones from either the top of the church-walls, or from the top of the former castle, and lay just below the battlements ; they measure 82 inches in length, 12 inches in breadth, with a groove or channel 8 inches wide running down their length, except for the last 10 inches, where it is bored through the stones.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 89

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through the parish of Tully, there was once a Blessed Well dedicated to St. John, a quarter mile northeast of the churchyard. It dried up after a well for the Kildare Town Waterworks was sunk nearby, and its site is still marked by an old whitethorn tree with a large stone beside it. There is another well story in this parish worth hearing. By the roadside near Tully House, a cut-stone basin built by the Board of Works is sometimes called St. Brigid's Well, but that is an error. The real St. Brigid's Well sits in a neglected state on a patch of commons called the Grallach, meaning a miry place, in the townland of Brallistown, close by to the south of the churchyard. A strong clear flow of water issues from it into the neighbouring ditch, where two stones lie side by side, known as St. Brigid's kneeling-stones. These stones are in fact water-shoot stones from the top of either the church walls or the former castle, measuring 82 inches long and 12 inches broad, with a channel 8 inches wide running down their length.

44. Bronze brooch and burial-urn found at Pollardstown gravel-pit

    Pollardstown · townland · Kildare · 1908

    A small bronze brooch and portion of a burial-urn were discovered in 1908 in the railway gravel-pit at Pollardstown, between Newbridge and Kildare stations. These were exhibited by Lord Walter FitzGerald at the Society's meeting.

    Read the passage

    Several objects of antiquarian interest were exhibited. Sir Arthur Vicars showed a medallion of Henri IV., in impressed horn of early seventeenth-century French workmanship, a curious iron bit of the seventeenth century, used for hardmouthed horses, two quaint wooden nut-crackers, an iron keyring, used by a chatelaine in the seventeenth century, two old damask armorial napkins, one dated 1724, that had belonged to Archbishop Price, of Cashel, and another dated 1709, with battle scenes and portrait of the Duke of Marlborough woven into the damask. Lord Walter FitzGerald exhibited a small bronze brooch, and portion of a burial-urn, discovered in 1908 in the railway gravel-pit, at Pollardstown, between Newbridge and Kildare stations.

    The Chairman, in concluding the proceedings, drew the attention of Members to the desirability of bringing objects of antiquarian and archaeological interest to the General Meetings. He pointed out the additional interest it imparted to meetings, and the instruction it gave to Members, besides often affording an opportunity to owners of articles to know something about the value and interest of their possessions.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 149

45. Castle of Leghey deemed chief castle of the Barony of Offaly

    Lea · townland · Laois · 1272

    A royal instruction of 1272 to Sir Geoffrey de Geneville describes the castle of Leghey as the chief castle of the Barony of Offaly, with disputes over its custody involving Roger de Mortimer and his wife Matilda.

    Read the passage

    ‘ 1 It moreover appears that the castle of Leghey, which is the chief castle of the Barony, with the third part of the custody, ought to accrue to the said Matilda as the eldest of the sisters, nor was it the King’s intention that by gift of custody to Thomas de Clare, the said Roger de Mortimer and Matilda his wife should be prejudiced, for which reason the King had commanded to James de Audley and Maurice fitzMaurice (FitzGerald), formerly his Justiciaries in Ireland, that this Castle with a third part of the custody of Offaly (saving the dower of Maurice’s wife, Agnes de Y alence) should be restored to the said Roger de Mortimer and Matilda his wife, but this was not done.

    “ The King therefore commands Geoffrey de Geneville that, taking with him a sufficient force if necessary, he cause the Castle with a third part of the custody of Offaly (saving Maurice’s wife’s dower), with all the issues of the Barony from the time when the custody first came into the King’s hands (in 1257), to be restored to the said Roger de Mortimer and Matilda his wife.”1

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 188

46. Celtic slab fragments preserved in St. Brigid's Cathedral, Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    Three small fragments of ancient Celtic inscribed slabs were rescued during the last restoration of St. Brigid's Cathedral and are now preserved at the west end, alongside the Round Tower and high granite cross as the only pre-Norman remains.

    Read the passage

    Fragments of Celtic Slabs in St. Brigid’s Cathedral, Kildare.— Visitors to this ancient and historic Celtic ecclesiastical site must be struck with disappointment at the very few monuments belonging to that early period which are now visible ; the Round Tower and the high unsculptured granite cross being the only two pre-Norman remains now existing in the cathedral grounds. This may be accounted for by the erection of the Anglo- Norman cathedral in the thirteenth century, when the Celtic crosses, Irish inscribed slabs, and other remains, may have been injured, ignored, or even broken up and used for building material. Even at the present day there are no Anglo-Irish monuments of an earlier date than the seventeenth century, with the exception of the Bishop’s Effigy and the sixteeenth-century effigy of Sir Maurice FitzGerald, of Lackagli. That Celtic slabs were at one time in existence here is proved by the fact that three small fragments were rescued during the last restoration of the cathedral, and now are deposited in the west end of the cathedral, where they are carefully preserved by orders of the Dean of Kildare.

    Rubbings from these three small fragments (two of which belong to one another) are illustrated on the opposite page.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 217

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare town, you are near St. Brigid's Cathedral, where three small fragments of ancient Celtic inscribed slabs are kept at the west end. They were rescued during the last restoration of the cathedral and are now carefully preserved by order of the Dean of Kildare. Two of the fragments belong to each other. Visitors to this old ecclesiastical site may be struck by how few early monuments remain. The Round Tower and a high unsculptured granite cross are the only other pre-Norman survivals in the cathedral grounds. The Anglo-Norman cathedral went up in the 13th century, and the Celtic crosses, Irish inscribed slabs and other remains may have been injured, ignored, or even broken up and used for building material. There are no Anglo-Irish monuments here earlier than the 17th century, apart from the Bishop's Effigy and the 16th-century effigy of Sir Maurice FitzGerald of Lackagli.

47. Custody of Lea sold for 3500 marks, 1268

    Lea · townland · Laois · 1268

    While the young Maurice FitzGerald was still a minor, custody of Lea Castle was entrusted to Thomas de Clare, who later sold his right of custody to Sir William de Valence, Earl of Pembroke, for 3500 marks.

    Read the passage

    Maurice, the 2nd Baron, must have come of age about 1216, as in that year he obtained seisin of all the lands which Gerald, his father, held in fee on the day of his death.3 He was knighted in 1217 ; his death took place in the year 1257, when Lea, Rathangan, and Geashill (the latter a castle in the King’s County) appear to have descended to his grandson, Maurice, son of the Baron’s second son, Gerald, who had died in 1248. The “Annals of the Four Masters” state that this Maurice was drowned in the Irish Channel when returning from England in 1268. While he was still a minor, the custody of Lea was entrusted on the payment of a fine to Thomas de Clare, brother of Gilbert, 3rd Earl of Gloucester. In 1268 he sold his right of custody to Sir William de Valence, Earl of Pembroke, for the sum of 3500 marks.4 There appears to have been some

    1 Sweetman’s “ Calendar of Documents, Ire.,” vol. i., p. 16.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 188

48. Dispute over Coshegowley lands settled by Lord Deputy, 1614

    Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 1613–1614

    A controversy between Sir Terence O'Dempsey and Sir Adam Loftus of Monasterevin over lands in the territory of Coshegowley was decided in February 1614 by the Lord Deputy Sir Arthur Chichester, with Sir Terence conveying the lands to Sir Adam for £140.

    Read the passage

    Chichester, the Lord Deputy of Ireland, in the following manner : — Sir Terence was to perfect a Deed of Conveyance by which the lands were to be quietly and entirely handed over to Sir Adam ; and in return Sir Adam was to pay Sir Terence the sum of seven score pounds sterling. This was done, and on the 9th of March, 1614, Sir Terence gave a receipt for that amount. [Appendix, Ninth Report, Historical Manuscripts Commission.] The name is again mentioned in the following extract from a document penned by a Mr. Ley, who opposed a scheme of concentrating the scattered garrisons on the western borders of the County Kildare, in Naas, about the year 1599 : —

    “First. If the Garisone of Kyldare be taken awaye from there, the Connors being hard by of the north weste seid, within iii mylse to it, and lykeweise the Demsis of Coysogowly , and the Morse of Leyse, on the weste and southweste seyd, wyll have free lyberty to come along to the Liffy & one this seid of the seyd Liffy.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Monasterevin, you are in a town connected to an old land dispute. In 1614 the Lord Deputy of Ireland, Sir Arthur Chichester, settled a controversy between Sir Terence O'Dempsey and Sir Adam Loftus of Monasterevin over lands in the territory of Coshegowley. Sir Terence was to perfect a deed of conveyance handing the lands quietly and entirely over to Sir Adam, and in return Sir Adam was to pay him seven score pounds sterling. It was done, and on the 9th of March 1614 Sir Terence gave a receipt for that amount. The name Coshegowley turns up again in a document from about 1599, where a Mr. Ley warned against concentrating garrisons at Naas, saying the O'Dempseys of Coshegowley would have free liberty to come along to the Liffy if the garrison of Kildare were taken away.

49. Earl of Kildare's coat-of-arms stone at White Castle

    Athy · town · Kildare

    A fragmentary stone at the White Castle of Athy bears the Earl of Kildare's coat of arms surrounded by a garter with an obliterated inscription, a monkey supporter on a chain, and an I.H.S. monogram in Gothic lettering.

    Read the passage

    On one side of the garter is a monkey, the Earl’s supporter, secured by a chain fastened to a collar round the animal’s waist.

    On the opposite side is an i.li.c. (the old form of the I.H.S.), the letters being interwoven with an “ S ’’-like ribbon ; above it are portions of an inscription, also in the Gothic or “ black letter,” on a scroll. This inscription, too, has not been deciphered ; it appears to be in the contracted Latin of the end of the fifteenth or beginning of the sixteenth century.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Athy, at the White Castle, there's a fragment of a stone bearing the Earl of Kildare's coat of arms. A garter surrounds it with an inscription that's never been deciphered, likely contracted Latin from the late 1400s or early 1500s. On one side of the garter is a monkey on a chain, fastened to a collar round its waist. On the other side is an IHS monogram in Gothic black letter, the letters interwoven with an S-like ribbon, with portions of a scroll inscription above.

50. Forfeiture of Morett after the 1534 rebellion of Silken Thomas

    Morett · townland · Laois · 1534–1557

    Owing to the rebellion of the 10th Earl of Kildare, Morett and other family manors were forfeited to the Crown and not restored to his successor until 1557. The forfeited castle and manor of Morett was granted to James FitzGerald of Osberstown.

    Read the passage

    Among the forfeited estates of the 10th Earl, and the issues1 thereof, appear “ the Castles and Manors of Ley and Morette in the County of Kildare, no issues; granted to James FitzGerald,” then in possession of Osberstown, County Kildare.

    In 1540, Owen mac Murrough (or Maurice) O’Connor, Chief of Irry, made his submission to the Lord Deputy, Sir Anthony St. Leger, and the Council ; and, among other conditions, he agreed to restore to all the inhabitants of the king’s land of Morett (forfeited by the Silken Thomas, 10th Earl of Kildare) the rents and tributes he had been exacting from them.2 The Irry here mentioned was a sub-district in the western half of the Barony of Portnahinch.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 167

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Morett, you're passing through land that was forfeited to the Crown after Silken Thomas, the 10th Earl of Kildare, rebelled in 1534. The castle and manor were granted to James FitzGerald of Osberstown. In 1540, Owen mac Murrough O'Connor, Chief of Irry, submitted to the Lord Deputy Sir Anthony St. Leger and agreed to restore to the inhabitants of Morett the rents and tributes he had been exacting from them. The family's estates were not restored to the Earl's successor until 1557.

51. Knights Hospitallers' Commandery established at Tully

    Tully · parish · Kildare · 1298

    At Tully, a Commandery of the Knights Hospitallers (Knights of St. John of Jerusalem) was established at an early period, though the founder and foundation date are unrecorded. It may have owed its existence to the De Vesci family, Lords of Kildare before the grant to the 1st Earl of Kildare around 1298.

    Read the passage

    There is very little mention made of this place in bygone times ; but at a very early period a Commandery of the Knights Hospitallers (otherwise Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem) was established here ; but neither the date of the Foundation nor the name of the Founder have been recorded ; possibly it owed its existence to the De Yesci family, who were Lords of Kildare previous to the grant of the lordship to the 1st Earl of Kildare about the year 1298.

    In Archdall’s “ Monasticon Hibernicon,” and Dr. Comerford’s “ Dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin,” the names of some of the Priors and Preceptors, as well as the dates of convening of Chapters during the thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth centuries, are given. The last Preceptor was John Walyngton, who, on surrendering the Commandery to the Crown, in 1540, was granted a pension of £16 IBs. 4d.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 87

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming through the parish of Tully now. A Commandery of the Knights Hospitallers, the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, was established here at an early period, though neither the founder nor the date were recorded. It may have owed its existence to the De Vesci family, who were Lords of Kildare before the lordship was granted to the 1st Earl of Kildare around 1298. The last Preceptor was John Walyngton, who surrendered the Commandery to the Crown in 1540 and was granted a pension of £16.

52. Owny O'Dempsey's Will and Burial at Killeigh Abbey

    Killeigh · town · Offaly · 1637–1638

    Owny O'Dempsey of Cloniguaine, King's County, made his will in 1637, directing his body to be buried at the Franciscan Abbey of Killeigh, and settled his estate and family provisions there. The abbey, four miles south of Tullamore, served as the family burial place.

    Read the passage

    “ Imprimis. I doe committ my soule unto Almightie God my Maker and Redeemer, and my bodie to be buried in the Franciscan Abbey of Killihie.1

    “Item. I will and ordaine all my debts to be paid out of my goods and chattells and the Easter rents next ensuinge the date hereof without delay or contradiction.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 242

53. Rev. Christopher Hewetson buried in Swords chancel

    Swords · town · Dublin · 1638–1694

    The Rev. Christopher Hewetson the elder died in 1638 and was buried in the chancel of the Parish Church of Swords, where a gravestone with an inscription was later laid in 1694 by his grandson.

    Read the passage

    The Rev. Christopher Hewetson, the elder, died 5th April, 1638 (Funeral entry, Ulster’s Office), and was buried in the chancel of the Parish Church of Swords, where a gravestone with an inscription was laid in 1694 by his grandson, Michael Hewetson, Archdeacon of Armagh. The inscription (which will be found in the “ Journal of the Association for Preservation of Memorials of the Dead in Ireland,” vol. i, p. 349) erroneously states him to have been “ Chancellor” of Christ Church, and gives 1634 as the year of his death, instead of 1633..

    By his second marriage with Rebecca Okes, he was the father, with other issue, of Christopher Hewetson, of Thomastown, County Kilkenny, wTho was the grantee under the Acts of Settlement of extensive estates in the County Kilkenny, and was the ancestor of the Hewetsons of Thomastown, County Kilkenny, and Clonruske, County Carlow.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 216

54. St. Brigid's Well at Morett, the only blessed well in the barony

    Morett · townland · Laois

    So far as could be ascertained, the only blessed well in the whole Barony of Portnahinch is St. Brigid's Well at Morett, though other ancient ecclesiastical foundations likely once had their own dedicated wells now forgotten.

    Read the passage

    So far as could be ascertained there is only one blessed well in the barony, St. Brigid’s Well at Morett. Ancient ecclesiastical foundations, such as Coolbanagher, Kilmainham, Kilmongan (or Ivy Chapel), &c., must have each had a well dedicated to the patron saint ; but unfortunately they are not now remembered.

    The existing Castles in the Barony are those of Lea, Tinnakill, Morett, and Coolbanagher, each of which will be described under their respective headings. The Down Survey Maps of 1657 also show castles as then existing at Ballycullenbeg (now a part of Mountmellick on the Portnahinch side of the Owen ass river), Emo, Bally teigeduff, and Ballybrittas.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Morett is St. Brigid's Well, the only blessed well in the whole Barony of Portnahinch, so far as anyone could tell. Other old church foundations in the area, places like Coolbanagher, Kilmainham, and Kilmongan, must each have had a well dedicated to their own patron saint once, but those wells are not remembered now. This one survived where the others were lost.

55. The Naming of Aillinn from a Cast Stone

    Knockaulin · street · Kildare

    An ancient Dindsenchas manuscript explains that Buirech cast a stone from the ditch at Aillinn and declared it would give the place its name, hence 'Aillinn'.

    Read the passage

    “Art Mesdelmand, son of Setna, was the first who excavated the rampart of Aillinn. Fiach, then, and Buirech, and Ururus dug it finally. It was Buirech, too, that out of the ditch cast the stone that is still at Aillinn, and said : — “ Ailand (i.e., a rock there), and this is the name it shall have.” Hence the name Aillinn.

    An ancient vellum MS., of about a.d. 1500, in the Library of Trinity College (Class H. 8, 18, p. 567), also relates the incident described above, in these words (translated)3 : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 203

    As the companion tells it

    Along here at Knockaulin, an old Dindsenchas tale says Art Mesdelmand, son of Setna, was the first to excavate the rampart of Aillinn, and Fiach, Buirech, and Ururus finished digging it. Buirech cast a stone from the ditch, one still said to be at Aillinn, and declared it would give the place its name. He said "Ailand," meaning a rock there, and from that came the name Aillinn. A vellum manuscript from about 1500 in Trinity College Library tells the same story.

56. Alen family of Palmerstown and their memorial slab

    Palmerstown · townland · Dublin · 1558–1610

    The genealogy of the Alen family of Palmerstown is traced through Daniel Molyneux's 1607 Visitation manuscript, culminating in Matthew Alen, whose daughter Alice placed the memorial slab over her father's grave in the church at Palmerstown.

    Read the passage

    This Matthew Alen is the one named on the slab. By his wife Ellis .... he had an only child, Alice, who died unmarried, by whom the slab was placed over her father’s grave.

    The second tomb consists of a plain, mural, limestone slab set in a projecting frame, and built into the south wall of the chancel ; below it is a vault, probably the one mentioned in the following

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 181

57. Ardea church built by Lord Portarlington circa 1788

    Ardea · parish · Laois · 1788–1790

    The church in Ardea, a handsome edifice, was erected around 1788 at the expense of the late Lord Portarlington on the summit of an eminence near the southern extremity of the Union. The Glebe House in Ardea, a handsome residence, was built in 1790.

    Read the passage

    Lewis, in his “ Topographical Dictionary of the Parishes in Ireland” (1887), makes no mention of Ardea Parish; but under the heading of Coolbanagher, he states that “ the latter living is a Rectory in the Diocese of Kildare episcopallv united, in 1804, to the Rectory of Ardea, or Ardrea, together forming the Union of Coolbanagher. . . . The Glebe House in Ardea is a handsome residence, built in 1790. The church also in Ardea is a handsome edifice, erected at the expense of the late Lord Portarlington ( circa 1788) on the summit of an eminence not far from the southern extremity of the Union.” From this clue I have come to the conclusion that “Ardea” is the name of the hill on which the modern Protestant Church of Coolbanagher stands. It is situated three-quarters of a mile to the south-west of Emo village, and the public road, which crosses over it, forms the mearing between the townlands of Morett and Coolbanagher, the church standing in the former. In 1545 one Patrick O’Becan, chaplain, was presented by the Crown to “ the vicarage of Coolbanhir, otherwise Ardea, in the Diocese of Kildare.”1

    A Queen’s County Chancery Inquisition,2 held at Maryborough in September, 1617 (among the jurors on which the name of “ Thomas FitzGerald of Imoe, Gent.,” appears), ascertained that the late Queen Elizabeth, by Letters Patent, dated at Dublin the 18th December, 1570, granted the undermentioned manors, castles, towns, lands, rectories, &c., to Owen mac Hugh O’Dempsey, and his lawful male heirs, with remainder to his brothers Terence and Dermot and their heirs. The jurors found that the said Owen mac Hugh died without male issue about forty years previously (i.e., circa 1577); that his brother Terence was dead without male issue, and that, in consequence, the lands were now in the possession of Sir Terence O’Dempsey, Knight, of Ballybrittas, who was the son and heir of the above-mentioned Dermot, also deceased.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 118

58. Armorial carvings and tombs among the Lyons ruins

    Lyons · townland · Kildare · 1500–1599

    Amongst the ruins at Lyons could be seen sixteenth-century armorial carvings of the Aylmer family and their tombs, along with the burial-place of the Lawless family.

    Read the passage

    In the grounds amongst the ruins may be seen some sixteenth-century armorial carvings of the Aylmer family and their tombs, where also is the burial-place of the Lawless family. A delay, caused by a short shower, was utilized by some for a snatch luncheon, as on this occasion it had not been

    76

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 50

59. Belan House gate now at Carton Demesne

    Carton Demesne · townland · Kildare

    The grand entrance gate of the ruined Belan House is said to have been moved and now graces the entrance to Carton Demesne.

    Read the passage

    Mountneill House was destroyed by fire early in the last century ; Aldborough House is now a military Barracks ; and Belan House was allowed to go to ruin. Mason Gerrard, the second last Earl, contracted large liabilities. He was a great spendthrift, running through all his available property with lightning speed. He spent nearly all his time in London, having a short and merry life. Belan was stripped, firstly, of the horned stock, horses, and carriages ; the furniture was then disposed of ; finally, the dismantlement and ruin of the house culminated in having the valuable mantelpieces torn away and sold— the very doors, windows, floors, roof, cut-stone quoins, and window-sills sharing the same fate. The grand entrance gate, I am told, now graces the entrance to Carton Demesne. It is told of Mason Gerrard that when at his wits5 end for money his custom was to enter the Jews’ office and threaten to shoot himself then and there unless he received more money. As he had only a life-interest in the property, his demand was generally complied with. The last Earl resided at Stratford Lodge, near Baltinglass. He was a very eccentric man, but very clever, and a wonderful mechanic. The writer remembers the destruction of the mansion, which took place about forty-six years ago. It was a large, square house, devoid of architectural adornment, hut beautifully situated, overlooking the Valley of the Slaney, and commanding a charming view of the Wicklow Mountains and a large part of the County Carlow. On a Sunday morning, in the spring of 1856, the driver of the post-car from Athy to Baltinglass awoke the inhabitants with the cry: “The lord’s house is on fire.” He had already roused Lord Aldborough by throwing stones through his bedroom window. In a short time a huge crowd was on the scene. The lord was already dressed, and his cry was : “ Save the Balloon House.” His sole aim in life was to construct a balloon, for which purpose he had a large house erected in chiselled Ballyknockan granite at the western end of the Lodge, which had a huge door, 50 feet wide and 60 feet

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 159

60. Burial of Colonel Vigors in the Family Vault at Old Leighlin Cathedral

    Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow · 1903

    On 30 December 1903, Colonel Philip Doyne Vigors died at the age of seventy-eight and was laid to rest in the family vault at Old Leighlin Cathedral, long associated with his family name.

    Read the passage

    On the 30th of December, 1903, at the age of seventy-eight, Colonel Vigors passed away from the scene of the work he loved so well, and which, up to the very last, occupied his thoughts. His body was laid to rest in the family vault at Old Leighlin Cathedral, which for so long has been associated with those of his name, but with not one who took a deeper interest in its history and welfare than he did.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk04coun, Chapter 146