Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (vol. 5)

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. Betrayal and Siege of Maynooth Castle, 1535

   Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1535

   The Silken Thomas, 10th Earl of Kildare, raised rebellion in 1535 and left Maynooth Castle in the custody of his foster-brother Christopher Parez, who betrayed it to Sir William Skeffington's besieging forces. The official state paper describes the assault, breach of the bawn, and capture of the garrison.

   Read the passage

   “ May it please Your moost Excellent Highnes to be advertised, that I, your Deputie, with your armye in thes parties, the 14th day of Marche last past beseaged the castell of Maynuth, which by your traitor and rebell, Thomas Fiz-Gerolde, was so stronglie fortified, booth with men and ordenaunce, as the liek hath not been seen in Irlonde, synes anny your moost nobell progenitors had furst domynion in the lande. Ther was within the same above 100 habell men, wherof wer above 60 gonners. The 16th day of the said monith your ordenaunce was bent to the north west of the dungen1 of the same castell, which ded baitter the tope therof on that wise, as ther ordenaunce within that parte was dampned ; which doone, your ordenaunce was bent upon the northeside of the base corte2 of the said castell, at the northeast ende wherof ther was new made a very stronge and fast bulwark, well garnisshed with men and ordenaunce, which the 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, and 22nd dayes of the said monithe, ded beat the same, by night and daye, on that wise, that a great batery and a large entrie was made ther; wherupon the 23rd day, beinge Tewsdaye next before Eister Day, ther was a galiarde3 assaulte gyven betwixt fower and fyve of the clocke in the mornynge, and the base corte entered. At whiche entery ther was slayne of the warde of the castell aboute 60, and of your Graces armye no more but John Griffen, yerman of your moost honorable Guarde, and sex other, which wer killed with ordenaunce of the castell at the entree. Howbeit, if it had not pleased God to preserve us, it wer to be marveled that we had no more slayne. After the base corte was thus wonne, we assaulted the great castell, which within awhile yelded ; wherin was the Dean of Kildare,4 Cristofer Parys capitayne of the garysone, Donough O’Dogan maister of thordenaunce, Sir Symon Walshe priste, and Nicholas Wafer which tooke thArchbussop of Dublin,5 with dyvers other gunners and archers to the nomber of 37 ; which wer all taken prysoners, and ther lifes preserved by appoyntment, untill they shuld be presented to me, your Deputie, and then to be orderid, as I and your Counsaill thought good. And considering the high enterprise and presumption attempted by them ayenst Your Graces Crowne and Magistie, and also that if, by anny meane, they shuld escape, the moost of theym beyng gunners, at some other tyme wold semblablie elliswhear aide your traitors, and be example and

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 34

   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is Maynooth, a town in Kildare with a castle at the heart of a siege in 1535. Thomas FitzGerald, called Silken Thomas, had raised rebellion against the Crown and left Maynooth Castle in the hands of his foster-brother Christopher Parez, who betrayed it to the King's forces. The Deputy, Sir William Skeffington, brought the royal army and on the 14th of March laid siege to a castle he called the strongest fortified in Ireland, with above 100 able men inside and above 60 gunners. On the 16th the royal artillery battered the northwest of the dungeon until the guns there were put out of use. Then for five days, the 18th through the 22nd, by night and day, the ordnance beat against the north side of the base court until a great breach and a wide entry were made. On the 23rd, Tuesday before Easter, between four and five in the morning, the assault went in. About 60 of the castle's ward were slain. The King's losses were John Griffen, yeoman of the Guard, and six others killed by the castle's guns at the entry. The base court was taken. The great castle yielded soon after. Inside were the Dean of Kildare, Christopher Parez, captain of the garrison, Donough O'Dogan, master of the ordnance, Sir Simon Walsh, a priest, and Nicholas Wafer, who had captured the Archbishop of Dublin, with divers other gunners and archers to the number of 37. All were taken prisoner, their lives preserved by agreement until the Deputy and Council should decide their order.

2. Felix Rourke hanged on rafters of burned priest's house

   Rathcoole · town · Dublin · 1803

   Felix Rourke was tried in Dublin in September 1803 on the evidence of the informer Mahaffy, sentenced to be executed outside his father's door, but instead hanged on 10th September from a rafter of the recently burned house of the parish priest of Rathcoole, Father James Harold.

   Read the passage

   broke out Lord Edward made him a present of his favourite mare, and he was a great favourite with his lordship.” At the outbreak of hostilities, he was made a Colonel of the Kildare insurgents, and fought at Clonard, Johnstown, and Hacketstown, but availed of Lord Cornwallis’s amnesty, and surrendered to Colonel Hunter, when he was lodged in Naas Jail, where he remained a prisoner until 1800. In 1803 he took part in Emmet’s abortive rising, and was arrested by Alderman Blonham in the Liberty. He was tried in Dublin on the 6tli September, 1803, the chief witness against him being one Mahaffy, a pedlar, then in the Kildare Militia, who swore he saw Rourke in Dirty Lane the night of the insurrection, armed with a blunderbuss, commanding as a Colonel of rebels. He was sentenced to be executed outside his father’s door ; hut this order was varied somewhat, as he was hanged on the 10th September from one of the rafters of the recently burned house of the parish priest of Rathcoole, Father James Harold, who shortly before this was arrested, tried by court-martial, and, on the evidence of the aforementioned informer Walsh, transported to Botany Bay.

   Rathcoole had a patent to hold fairs on April 23rd, June 18th, and October 9th; but Lewis, in “ Topographical Diet.,” 1837, states : — “ These fairs have not been held for some years.” A great tract of common, which extended chiefly to the south of the town, and comprised about 600 acres, was enclosed in 1818. A school was endowed here in the middle of the eighteenth century by Mrs. Mary Mercer for fifty poor girls. It stood where the rectory now stands. It was closed about the year 1800. “ Austin Cooper,” who, as already mentioned, visited the

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 47

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Rathcoole, a hanging in 1803 left its mark on the town. Felix Rourke had been a great favourite of Lord Edward, who made him a present of his favourite mare. At the outbreak of hostilities he was made a Colonel of the Kildare insurgents and fought at Clonard, Johnstown, and Hacketstown. He availed of Lord Cornwallis's amnesty and surrendered to Colonel Hunter, and was lodged in Naas Jail, where he remained a prisoner until 1800. In 1803 he took part in Emmet's abortive rising and was arrested by Alderman Blonham in the Liberty. He was tried in Dublin on 6 September 1803. The chief witness against him was Mahaffy, a pedlar then in the Kildare Militia, who swore he saw Rourke in Dirty Lane the night of the insurrection, armed with a blunderbuss, commanding as a Colonel of rebels. Rourke was sentenced to be executed outside his father's door, but that order was varied somewhat. He was hanged on 10 September 1803 from one of the rafters of the recently burned house of the parish priest of Rathcoole, Father James Harold. Father Harold himself had been arrested shortly before this, tried by court-martial on the evidence of the informer Walsh, and was transported to Botany Bay.

3. Assassination and death of Lord Edward FitzGerald at Murphy's house, Thomas Street

   Thomas Street · street · Dublin · 1798

   Fleeing government forces, Lord Edward FitzGerald was tracked to Murphy's house in Thomas Street, Dublin, where a violent struggle broke out with Major Swan, Ryan, and Major Sirr, resulting in Lord Edward being wounded and captured; he later died in Newgate prison on 4 June after seventeen days.

   Read the passage

   But to Murphy’s house in Thomas Street the blood-hounds found their way ;

   He heard their steps approaching from the bed on which be lay.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 296

   As the companion tells it

   Along here on Thomas Street in 1798, Lord Edward FitzGerald was tracked to Murphy's house. The blood-hounds found their way, and he heard their steps approaching from the bed on which he lay. After a violent struggle with Major Swan, Ryan, and Major Sirr, he was wounded and captured. He died in Newgate prison on 4 June, seventeen days later.

4. John Clinch's last letter before execution

   Rathcoole · town · Dublin · 1798

   On the morning of his execution in June 1798, John Clinch wrote a letter to his father from the Provost Prison expressing his innocence of the charges laid against him by his persecutor Walsh and asking for a priest.

   Read the passage

   “ I expected to have seen or heard from you ere this. I fear my fate is determined. I am told I am to suffer death this day. It would be a great satisfaction to see you before I die, and if you could bring or send a priest to me, I think I could then die happy. At all events I will meet my fate with fortitude. I would not for worlds exchange situations with Walsh, my persecutor, who has behaved in the most base and treacherous manner, and swore to several falsehoods. His charges were as follows : — That I swore him to be true to the French, and that I was a sergeant in the rebels, and that I attended a meeting of sergeants to elect a captain. Dear Father, I assure you the foregoing charges are false, and as I hope for salvation, I declared the truth at the court-martial. I hope, dear father, you will bear this with fortitude, and comfort my dear mother on this trying occasion. I feel more for my friends than myself. My love to my dear sister Swords, Ann, Kitty, Fanny, Alicia, Michael, andLarrey, and my brother-in-law, Swords. As I am preparing for that awful moment, I beg you excuse any omission on my side.

   “ I am, honoured father,

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 46

   As the companion tells it

   You are passing through Rathcoole, a town touched by the reckoning of 1798. On a June morning that year, a man named John Clinch sat in the Provost Prison awaiting execution and wrote a last letter to his father. He had been condemned on the word of a man he called Walsh, his persecutor, who he said had sworn to several falsehoods. The charges against him were that he swore Walsh to be true to the French, that he was a sergeant in the rebels, and that he attended a meeting of sergeants to elect a captain. Clinch declared all of it false. He told his father he had spoken the truth at his court-martial and would meet his fate with fortitude. He asked that a priest be brought or sent, saying he could then die happy. He begged his father to comfort his dear mother on the trying occasion, and sent his love to his sister Swords, Ann, Kitty, Fanny, Alicia, Michael, and Larrey, and to his brother-in-law Swords. He closed asking forgiveness for any omission, as he was preparing for what he called that awful moment.

5. Mass execution after fall of Maynooth Castle

   Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1535

   After the castle fell, the garrison including Christopher Parys were examined and condemned; twenty-five were beheaded before the gate and one hanged, with heads set upon the castle turrets as a warning to others.

   Read the passage

   meane to others to doo lykewise, we all thought expedient and requisite, that they shuld be put to execution, for the dread and example of others. According wherunto, the Thursday following, in the mornyng, they wer examynid, and ther depositions written ; and after none the samedaye arrayned before the propheest marshall and capitannes, and ther, upon ther awne confessions, adjudged to die, and ymmediatly 25 of them before the gate of the castell heeded, and oon hanged. Dyverse of the heedes of the principalles, ineontynentlie, wer put upon the turrettes of the castell

   From your Maner of Maynuth, the 26th day of this said monith of Marche (1535). Your Highnes moost humble Subjectes.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 35

   As the companion tells it

   As the road takes you through Maynooth, you are passing the ground where Maynooth Castle once stood. In March 1535, after the castle fell, the garrison including Christopher Parys were examined and their depositions written down. They were arraigned before the provost marshal and captains, and on their own confessions adjudged to die. Twenty-five were beheaded before the castle gate, and one was hanged. Several of the heads of the principals were placed on the castle turrets, meant, as the record puts it, for "the dread and example of others."

6. Rebel Forces Slaughter Government Captains at Glenmalure

   near Glenmalur · valley · Wicklow · 1580

   James Eustace, Viscount Baltinglass, joined by the Kavanaghs, Kinsellaghs, O'Byrnes and O'Tooles, retreated to Glenmalure where they ambushed and slaughtered government soldiers sent by the Lord Justice. Sir Peter Carew, Colonel John More and Francis Cosby of Stradbally were among those slain.

   Read the passage

   “A hosting was made by the Lord Justice and Captain (Sir Nicholas) Malby, to scatter and disperse these war-like plunderers. When the insurgents had heard of the approach of such an overwhelming force, they retreated into their fastnesses in the rough and rugged recesses of Glenmalure. The Lord Justice then selected the most trustworthy and best captains of his army, and despatched them, at the head of eight or nine companies of soldiers, to search and explore Glenmalure ; but they were responded to without delay by the parties that guarded the valley, so that very few of these returned without being cut off and dreadfully slaughtered by the Irish party. On this occasion were slain (Sir) Peter Carew, Master Moor (Colonel John More) and Master Frans (i.e., Francis Cosby of Stradbally), with many other gentlemen who had come from England in the retinue of the Lord Justice. When this news reached the Lord Justice, he left his camp.

   “John, the son of James, son of the Earl of Desmond,1 proceeded from one territory to another, until he reached Glenmalure, where James Eustace, and the sons of Hugh, son of Shaun O’Byrne, were stationed, where he was welcomed by these men ; and here the Kavanaghs, Kinsellaghs, O’Byrnes, and O’Tooles, and the plunderers of the country in general, came to join him. It would be tedious to mention all the property they destroyed and injured upon the English of Leinster and Meath. John, son of the Earl of Desmond, and James Eustace, set out about Michaelmas in the expectation of meeting the Italians (at Dun-anoir) who had arrived in his (John’s) country, for he expected to obtain relief and assistance from them. But it did not so happen to them, for they had all been cut off and destroyed by the Lord Justice upon the one spot before he could reach them.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 258

7. Ghostly Vindication of Strahan in the Priest's Death

   Knockatomcoyle · townland · Wicklow

   A priest died mysteriously after leaving Knockatomcoyle with a Protestant named Strahan following a heated religious argument; Strahan was arrested for murder, but the priest's ghost appeared to his brother and revealed he had actually fallen from his horse and died unaided, leading to Strahan's acquittal.

   Read the passage

   In the churchyard there is a tombstone to the memory of a priest who died under peculiar circumstances. He left Knockatomcoyle one evening in company with a Protestant named Strahan, with whom he was engaged in heated controversy on some question of religious belief. Next morning the priest wras found lying dead by the roadside, and, as Strahan was the last man known to have been with him, he was arrested and committed for trial at Wicklow. Before the trial took place, however, the spirit of the priest appeared to his brother and told him that Strahan had no hand, act, or part in his death. He said he had been thrown by his horse, his hat struck down over his face, and that he lay conscious, but unable to move. While in this precarious position, a passer-by looked at him, and then went on, saying, “ A live man never found a dead man.” If this man had helped him, “ he had been all right,” as my informant told me ; but getting no assistance, he died. This story being told by the poor priest’s own brother, Strahan was acquitted.

   High Park has been the seat of the Westbys now for seven generations. It came into their family through a marriage with

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 211

8. Mock execution of a Ballitore doctor and fear of tainted bacon

   Ballitore · town · Kildare · 1798

   Troops carried out a mock trial and execution of a medical man at Ballitore who had ministered to the wounded of both sides without taking part in the rebellion. Terror was such that neighbours were afraid to shelter his body, left by the roadside, from swine, and for months afterward there was no sale for Irish-cured bacon for fear hogs had fed on human flesh.

   Read the passage

   with artillery and infantry. The trumpet was sounded, and the peaceable inhabitants were delivered up for two hours to a furious soldiery. Every house in the Burrow was in flames ; a row of houses opposite the school was set on fire ; the soldiers were seen bending under loads of plunder. When they were given milk, they insisted that it had been poisoned, and made the givers drink some to assure them. Although a protection had been forced upon Mary Leadbeater by a friendly officer, her house was entered, and one soldier presented his musket at her breast, cursing her with great bitterness. “ I desired him,’5 she says, “ not to shoot me. It seemed as if he had the will, but not the power to do so. He turned from me, dashed pans and jugs off the kitchen table with his musket, and shattered the kitchen window.” It is a curiously feminine trait that she seems to have been horrified by this more than by the threat to shoot her. She ran out of the house, and thought of throwing herself into the river at the foot of the garden. Fortunately two officers, to whom she was known, responded to the cry for help, and turned the ruffian out of the house. That danger over, she watched from the window the red flames rising from houses that the soldiery had fired. “At the same time,” she says, “ a fat tobacconist from Carlow lolled in one of our chairs, and talked boastingly of the exploits of the military whom he had accompanied ; how they had shot several, adding, ‘ We burned one fellow in a barrel.’” I pass over the other outrages committed by the troops — the murders of innocent and loyal people — the mock trial and execution of the medical man who had taken no part in the rebellion, but had spent days and nights in ministering to the wounded of both parties. Such was the terror inspired by the soldiery, who behaved as if they were in an enemy’s country, that his neighbours and friends were afraid to give his dead body, which had been left by the roadside, shelter in their houses. They dared only watch to protect it from the swine, which, sniffing blood, were waiting to make a horrid repast. It adds to the horror of the time, that it is recorded that for several months there w7as no sale for bacon cured in Ireland, from the well-founded dread of the hogs having fed upon the flesh of men.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 269

   As the companion tells it

   You are coming into Ballitore. In 1798, troops with artillery and infantry sounded the trumpet and gave the peaceable inhabitants over to a furious soldiery for two hours. Every house in the Burrow was burned, and soldiers were seen bending under loads of plunder. When people gave them milk, the soldiers insisted it was poisoned and made them drink it to prove it safe. A soldier pressed his musket to Mary Leadbeater's breast, cursing her. "I desired him not to shoot me," she wrote. "It seemed as if he had the will, but not the power to do so." He smashed pans and jugs off her kitchen table and shattered the window, and she ran out thinking of throwing herself into the river, but two officers she knew drove the man out. From her window she watched red flames rise while a fat tobacconist from Carlow lolled in one of her chairs, boasting how they had shot several and adding, "We burned one fellow in a barrel." The troops also held a mock trial and execution of a medical man who had taken no part in the rebellion but had spent days and nights tending the wounded of both sides. The terror was such that his neighbours and friends dared not take his body, left by the roadside, into their houses. They could only watch to keep it from swine that had caught the scent of blood. For months afterward there was no sale for bacon cured in Ireland, from the well-founded fear that hogs had fed on human flesh.

9. Battle of Almanza and the omen of blood

   Stradbally · town · Laois · 1707

   Pole Cosby's father fought at the Battle of Almanza where only 11 men of his regiment survived, including himself and his uncle Loftus Cosby. His wife, fasting at home, saw three drops of blood fall from her nose onto her book at the exact hour of the battle, which she took as an omen.

   Read the passage

   happened to be at the height of the Battle as she was reading, three drops of blood fell from her nose on the Book. She imagined it ominous and so set down ye hour and day, and by a letter soon after from my Father she found at that time he was in the greatest danger. My Father was then taken prisoner and was carryed to Dijon ye capital of Burgundy where he was for three years (note he was in Spain 2 years) and from there he got leave from ye Magistrates on his parole to make little tours to Switzerland Germany Paris and all over France. When my F. went to Spain in 1704 my mother went to live with my G-F. Pole who died as before mentioned July 1704 soon after she went to him. He left her £400 which she by Richd Segar of Red Castle Esq, her trustee, gave to William Hartpole of Shrule Esq in Queens County for ever, to lye dead for two years and then to receive £60 per annum during her life, but if she died within the first two years then the £400 was to be repaid. My mother was to have lived with her Fa1’ whilst my F. was abroad, but he dyed in a short time after my mother went to him, but my Uncle Pole who loved my mother dearly made her Wellcome to him during my F’s absence and she lived with him most all ye summers at Ballyfin, and all ye winters at his house in Queen Street Dublin, and he was very kind and affectionate during the whole five years that she lived with him. When my F? went to Spain my sister Sarah lived with Cos. Towers who kept her intirely, my sister Betty lived with her nurse, and I was kept with my nurse Eliz: Holdbrook at Ire near Ballyfin till I was six years old and then my father at Dijon wrote to my mother to have my two sisters and me put to Portarlington to School to learn french and accordingly we were lodged at one Capt Frankforts a frenchman’s whose whole family talked french and some of them co’d not speak any English so we three learned french naturally and when we left Portarlington we spoak it as well as English. My dear mother frequently and often came to see us every Summer yt is when she was in the country, Coz. Sulley Segar (after Coz. French) used to come and see us and sent for us to Red Castle where we went for a fortnight, it was after my mother went to England.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun

10. Burning of the Burrow and troops rampage through Ballitore

    Ballitore · town · Kildare · 1798

    When Colonel Campbell's troops arrived at Ballitore with artillery and infantry, every house in the Burrow was set on fire and a row of houses opposite the school was burned, with soldiers seen plundering. Mary Leadbeater's own house was invaded by a soldier who threatened to shoot her before smashing her kitchen furnishings.

    Read the passage

    with artillery and infantry. The trumpet was sounded, and the peaceable inhabitants were delivered up for two hours to a furious soldiery. Every house in the Burrow was in flames ; a row of houses opposite the school was set on fire ; the soldiers were seen bending under loads of plunder. When they were given milk, they insisted that it had been poisoned, and made the givers drink some to assure them. Although a protection had been forced upon Mary Leadbeater by a friendly officer, her house was entered, and one soldier presented his musket at her breast, cursing her with great bitterness. “ I desired him,’5 she says, “ not to shoot me. It seemed as if he had the will, but not the power to do so. He turned from me, dashed pans and jugs off the kitchen table with his musket, and shattered the kitchen window.” It is a curiously feminine trait that she seems to have been horrified by this more than by the threat to shoot her. She ran out of the house, and thought of throwing herself into the river at the foot of the garden. Fortunately two officers, to whom she was known, responded to the cry for help, and turned the ruffian out of the house. That danger over, she watched from the window the red flames rising from houses that the soldiery had fired. “At the same time,” she says, “ a fat tobacconist from Carlow lolled in one of our chairs, and talked boastingly of the exploits of the military whom he had accompanied ; how they had shot several, adding, ‘ We burned one fellow in a barrel.’” I pass over the other outrages committed by the troops — the murders of innocent and loyal people — the mock trial and execution of the medical man who had taken no part in the rebellion, but had spent days and nights in ministering to the wounded of both parties. Such was the terror inspired by the soldiery, who behaved as if they were in an enemy’s country, that his neighbours and friends were afraid to give his dead body, which had been left by the roadside, shelter in their houses. They dared only watch to protect it from the swine, which, sniffing blood, were waiting to make a horrid repast. It adds to the horror of the time, that it is recorded that for several months there w7as no sale for bacon cured in Ireland, from the well-founded dread of the hogs having fed upon the flesh of men.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 269

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ballitore in Kildare, you are passing through a town that saw terrible violence in 1798. Colonel Campbell's troops arrived with artillery and infantry, and the trumpet sounded, delivering the peaceable inhabitants to a furious soldiery for two hours. Every house in the Burrow was set on fire, and a row of houses opposite the school was burned, with soldiers seen bending under loads of plunder. When given milk, the soldiers insisted it had been poisoned and made the givers drink some to prove it was safe. Mary Leadbeater had been given a protection by a friendly officer, but a soldier still entered her house, pressed his musket to her breast, and cursed her. She asked him not to shoot her. He turned, smashed her pans and jugs off the kitchen table with his musket, and shattered the kitchen window. Two officers who knew her heard the cry for help and threw the man out. She watched from her window as red flames rose from the fired houses. A tobacconist from Carlow sat in one of her chairs, boasting of how the military had shot several people, adding, "We burned one fellow in a barrel." The troops also killed innocent and loyal people, and held a mock trial and execution of a medical man who had spent days and nights tending the wounded of both sides. His body was left by the roadside, and his neighbours were too afraid to shelter it in their houses. They could only watch to protect it from swine waiting to feed on it. It was recorded that for months after, there was no sale for bacon cured in Ireland, from the dread that the hogs had fed on human flesh.

11. Death of Dermot MacMurrough at Ferns, 1171

    Ferns · townland · Wexford · 1171

    Dermot MacMurrough died a fearful death at Ferns in 1171, described in the Annals of the Four Masters as dying of an unknown and insufferable disease, becoming putrid while still living, seen as divine punishment for burning churches.

    Read the passage

    4 ‘ Diarmaid MacMurchada, King of Leinster, by whom a trembling sod was made of all Ireland, — after having brought over the Saxons, after having done extensive injuries to the Irish, after plundering and burning many churches, — died before the end of a year after this plundering, of an insufferable and unknown disease ; for he became putrid while living, through the miracle of God, Colum-Cille, and Finnen, and the other saints of Ireland, whose churches he had profaned and burned some time before; and he died at Fearna mor (i.e. at Ferns, Co. Wexford) without making a will, without penance, without the body of Christ, without unction, as his evil deeds deserved.”

    Somewhere about the year 1185 Prince John, second son of Henry II, and who was styled “ Lord of Ireland,” confirmed to the Abbot of Baltinglass the lands and possessions which had been granted to the Abbey at the time of its foundation by King

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 245

12. The haunted house of Duke Street, Athy, and its walled-up corpse

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1810

    An old two-storey inn on Duke Street, Athy, bore an evil reputation for murders committed there; around 1810, a crippled old woman who sat by the wall was revealed when a crack opened to disclose the standing, preserved body of a man in a red coat, hidden behind a wall for years. The old woman was found dead shortly after and the man's body vanished.

    Read the passage

    Among the inmates at that time was a crippled old woman who for years had been in the habit of sitting propped up against the wall beside the kitchen fire. One day the wall showed a wide crack, revealing a hollow behind. Eager hands, in search of hidden treasure, soon made wide the breach, when standing bolt upright, and having a horrible countenance, was discovered the body of a man in excellent preservation, dressed in a red coat faced with gold lace.

    All rushed wildly into the street shouting “ murder ! ” a statement undoubtedly true, but too late to be of any service.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 37

    As the companion tells it

    Athy was the site of an old two-storey inn on Duke Street with an evil reputation for murders committed there. Around 1810, a crippled old woman who sat propped against the kitchen wall for years caused no alarm until the wall cracked open one day. Hands eager for hidden treasure widened the breach, and there stood the body of a man, perfectly preserved, dressed in a red coat faced with gold lace, with a horrible countenance. People rushed into the street shouting, 'Murder!' The old woman was found dead shortly after, and the man's body vanished.

13. Dwyer's Betrayal at St. Kevin's Bed, Glendalough

    Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

    While hiding in St. Kevin's Bed at Glendalough, Michael Dwyer was betrayed by a cripple called 'Billy in the Bowl,' who pointed out his location to the military; Dwyer shot the informer and later escaped by scaling the rocks above the Bed under cover of darkness.

    Read the passage

    Captain Saunders had a large corps of yeomanry, which was mainly composed of his own tenants. An informer, named Joe Hawkins, gave information, and on a certain day the commanding officer, who had information from Joe Hawkins of the names of the United Irishmen in the corps, went to Captain Saunders, and told him of the fact. Captain Saunders would not believe this. The yeomanry were paraded before the mansion in Saunders’ Grove. They were called upon to stand forward, any who were United Irishmen, and nineteen came forward. Captain Saunders was amazed. He waited on the prisoners, and told them to be of good heart, as no overt act was attributed to any of them. Next morning they were asked to give information of the rebellion, but they one and all declined. There were thirty-four shot on Dunlavin Green next morning, including Joe Hawkins, the informer. One of them — a man named Prendergast — was shot in the bowels. His body was given to his friends. On the way home it was noticed that he breathed. His friends looked after his wounds, and he completely recovered and entered Captain Morley Saunders’ employment, and lived many years. There was one escape that took place in Baltinglass worth recording. One Shawn Reilly was closely pursued by the military. He was seen to enter a gateway that leads to several houses. Reilly made for one, in which churning was going on, and was clapped into the churn. The soldiers, having searched the other houses, entered this, but the churning proceeded. A servant, named Maggie Doyle, who had been jilted by Reilly, got a kettle of boiling water and commenced to scald the churn. Poor Reilly couldn’t cry out, but as soon as the soldiers disappeared he was speedily released. Once, when hiding in St. Kevin’s Bed at Glendalough, Michael Dwyer was betrayed by a cripple called “ Billy in the Bowl.’* He hobbled along, sitting in a wooden bowl, on hand-stools. He watched Dwyer, and saw him enter the Bed, and gave information to the military. Dwyer saw him point to his retreat, and while pointing out its location he was shot by Dwyer. The commander ordered the soldiers to enter, but several were hurled back dead into the lake. An order was given to procure timber for rafts and scaling ladders ; but when it arrived, it was found that the bird had flown, having, under cover of darkness, scaled the rocks above the Bed.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 220

14. Burning of High Park House in 1798

    High Park · street · Dublin · 1798

    During the 1798 rebellion, young Mr Westby of High Park was warned to flee before rebels burned the mansion; he escaped to Dublin but the butler, left to hide the plate, was murdered and the house burnt, with the plate never found.

    Read the passage

    a Miss Stepney, an heiress, who was the owner of the property. At the time of the rebellion in ’98 the Mr. Westby of that day was staying in Dublin, and a younger brother was living at High Park. This young Mr. Westby was well known and much liked in the neighbourhood, where he used to be seen frequently hunting and shooting. One day a man came to Mr. Westby and advised him to leave High Park without delay, as it had been determined by the rebels to burn the mansion that coming night. Profiting by the friendly intimation, Mr. Westby took horse and started for Dublin, first telling the butler what he had heard, and asking him to hide the plate. That night the house was burnt down, the butler was murdered, and, it is supposed, he hid the plate very safely, for it has never since been seen. The rebels broke into the wine-cellar, and, becoming intoxicated, marched in that state to Hacketstown, where they were nearly all arrested, no silver being found on any of them. The old cellar can still be seen. The present house was built at a short distance from the place where the old one stood.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun

15. Cattle ruse recaptures Rathangan Castle

    Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1535

    Silken Thomas caused a drove of cattle to appear near the town of Rathangan, luring the castle's defenders out on suspicion of booty. They were ambushed and the greater number slain, allowing the castle to be recaptured through this wile.

    Read the passage

    is as follows : — “ Thomas caused a drove of Cattell to appeare timelie in the morning hard by the town of Rathimgan. Such as kept the Castele, suspecting it to be a bootie, were trained (drawn) for the more part out of it, who were surprised by Thomas that laie hard by in ambush, and the greater number of them slaine.”1

    By the month of July the Castle appears to have been re-taken by the Government forces ; as in that month Gerald Aylmer, the Chief Baron, wrote to Cromwell that Sir William Brabazon, the Treasurer, “sent owte of the Nas certen cartes of vittels to the Castell of Rathangan ; Thomas FitzGerald having knowledge thereof, furnished with the strength of Ochonor and other fals traitors, purposed to intercept the same, but Mr. Thesaurer with such company as was with him, which as we hear saie was Musgrave, Dacres, and Thomas Eustace,2 hearing of their intent, foiled and mett with him, and notwithstanding the doble number of them, as it is said, to him and his company, he sett upon them, and so not onlie, in conclusion, discomfite them, but killed 16 of ther horsemen, and the capitaine of ther galloglas.”3

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun

16. Dermot MacMurrough's oppressive reign and elopement of Dervorgilla

    Ferns · townland · Wexford · 1137–1171

    Dermot MacMurrough, King of Leinster from 1137, ruled with continuous warfare and cruelty, blinding or slaying chiefs in 1141. In 1152 he persuaded Dervorgilla, wife of Tiernan O'Rourke of Breifny, to elope with him, an event later blamed for provoking the Anglo-Norman invasion.

    Read the passage

    About the year 1148 Baltinglass Abbey, styled “ De Valle Salutis,” or the Valley of Salvation, came into existence. Its founder, Dermot MacMurrough, is first mentioned in “ The Annals of the Four Masters ” as King of Leinster in the year 1137, when he was thirty-four years of age. His reign was one of continuous warfare, cruelty, and oppression. In 1141 he is stated in the “Annals ” to have blinded or slain a score of the chiefs and principal men of Leinster. In 1152 he assisted Turlough O’Connor, Monarch of Ireland, in subduing Tiernan O’Rourke, Chief of Breifny (a district situated partly in Cavan and partly in Leitrim) ; and on this occasion he persuaded the wife of the latter to elope with him : this she voluntarily did, with her dowry — furniture and cattle. In the following year King Turlough O’Connor forced him to deliver up Dervorgilla (who was a daughter of Murrough O’Melaghlin, Chief of Meath), and she was restored to her rightful husband. At the time of the abduction, Dervorgilla was forty-four years of age, and King

    1 Father Carrigan’s “ History of the Diocese of Ossory.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 244

17. Dwyer's Surrender and Betrayal at Baltinglass

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1803

    In 1803, Dwyer and two companions surrendered to Mr. Hume on a promise of pardon and payment, but the Government withdrew the offer once they reached Dublin Castle, and the men were transported from Kilmainham Gaol; Hume then challenged the Lord Lieutenant to a duel.

    Read the passage

    There were two gentlemen who commanded the yeomanry in these times who acted with great humanity and consideration : they were Mr. William Hoare Hume, of Humewood, and Captain Morley Saunders, of Saunders’ Grove. Mr. Hume, although his father was shot by a man named Moore, who was subsequently hanged and quartered, and placed on a gibbet on the bounds of Garrick and Muckduff, where a mound of stones still marks the site, and is named Moore’s Gibbet, showed great concern for the rebels, and tried to induce them to cease the conflict. In 1803 Dwyer, with two companions, surrendered to Mr. Hume, and the Government of the day promised Mr. Hume free pardon for them, Dwyer to receive ^8500, the others ^8200 each, and all to be allowed to emigrate. When Mr. Hume brought them to Dublin Castle, this offer was traitorously withdrawn. The three men were lodged in Kilmainham Gaol, whence they were transported. Mr. Hume was so incensed at this betrayal that he challenged the Lord Lieutenant to a duel, but he

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 219

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Baltinglass in Wicklow. This town sits in the story of a surrender and a broken promise. Two local yeomanry officers stood out for their humanity in those years: William Hoare Hume of Humewood, and Captain Morley Saunders of Saunders' Grove. Hume's own father had been shot by a man named Moore, who was hanged and quartered and set on a gibbet at the bounds of Garrick and Muckduff, where a mound of stones still marks the spot, called Moore's Gibbet. Yet Hume showed concern for the rebels and urged them to lay down their arms. In 1803 Dwyer and two companions surrendered to him. The Government promised free pardon: Dwyer to receive 8500, the others 8200 each, and all to be allowed to emigrate. When Hume brought them to Dublin Castle, the offer was withdrawn. The three were lodged in Kilmainham Gaol and transported. Hume was so incensed he challenged the Lord Lieutenant to a duel.

18. Execution of Moore at Tubberowen, Rathdangan

    Rathdangan · townland · Wicklow

    Moore, who shot Mr Hume, was hung from an ash-tree over the well called Tubberowen at Rathdangan; his body was then gibbeted on Carrig Mountain and finally buried at Kilranelagh.

    Read the passage

    At Coolkenno I saw in the parish register the leaflet which was printed after the murder of Mr. Hume, of Humewood, in “ ’98.” It announced that it had been determined to offer a reward for the conviction of the murderer, and the names of the Wicklow gentry were appended, and the amount which each promised to subscribe. The list commenced with several sums of £50, then smaller amounts, and concluded with three contributions of £100 each. Moore, who shot Mr. Hume, was hung from an ash-tree, now dead, over the well called Tubberowen at Rathdangan. His body was then gibbeted on Carrig

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 214

19. King Laoghaire Defeated and Captured Near Athy

    Athy · town · Kildare

    King Laoghaire advanced through Leinster as far as Athy while attempting to exact cattle tribute, where he was defeated and taken prisoner by the men of Leinster. He was released only after swearing a sacred oath by the elements never again to raid their cattle.

    Read the passage

    He made war on the men of Leinster, chiefly to exact the cattle tribute, and advanced through their country as far as Athy. There he was defeated and made a prisoner, and now we come to an interesting episode. They held, no doubt, what would now he called a peace conference, and it is interesting to note what were the terms of peace which were exacted by the victors. There was no indemnity claimed, nor strip of territory, nor hostage from King Laoghaire for his future good conduct. No ; they were satisfied with his oath. So solemn, so sacred, so binding, was an oath considered by our pagan ancestors that the men of Leinster gave King Laoghaire his liberty, and set him free when he gave them his oath, and swore by the elements that never again would he make a cattle-raid upon them.

    I find it hard to believe that the old king was guilty of wilful perjury there and then. I am inclined to the more charitable view that he intended to keep his oath, but that afterwards he was overwhelmed by some dire necessity which forced him to break his oath. There is some corroboration of this view in the account of his death given by “ The Book of Leinster ” : “ He took cows at Sid Nectain, wherefore the elements gave the fate of death beside Cass, green its land.” Here cows are specified, and I think for a reason. Suppose his flocks and herds to have perished by a cattle plague or some other epidemic ; suppose his people to be perishing in the throes of famine, what was the old pagan moralist to do? Even if we do not suppose a very extreme case, it is reasonable to conceive the old king concluding that his oath was not binding under the circumstances, and so resolving, in his dire necessity, to help himself and his people to some of his neighbours’ cows, At all events he met his death in

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 135

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Athy, the town in Kildare where King Laoghaire met his defeat. He had made war on the men of Leinster, chiefly to exact the cattle tribute, and advanced through their country as far as this place. There he was defeated and made a prisoner. What followed was what we might call a peace conference. The terms the victors exacted are interesting. There was no indemnity claimed, nor strip of territory, nor hostage from King Laoghaire for his future good conduct. They were satisfied with his oath. So solemn, so sacred, so binding was an oath considered by our pagan ancestors that the men of Leinster gave King Laoghaire his liberty when he swore by the elements that never again would he make a cattle-raid upon them. It is hard to believe the old king was guilty of wilful perjury there and then. The more charitable view is that he intended to keep his oath, but that afterwards he was overwhelmed by some dire necessity which forced him to break it. There is corroboration in the account of his death given by The Book of Leinster: "He took cows at Sid Nectain, wherefore the elements gave the fate of death beside Cass, green its land." Here cows are specified. Suppose his flocks and herds had perished by a cattle plague or some other epidemic, and his people were perishing in famine. It is reasonable to conceive the old king concluding that his oath was not binding under the circumstances, and so resolving, in his dire necessity, to help himself and his people to some of his neighbours' cows. At all events he met his death in breaking that oath.

20. Robbers raid the Shackleton household and fatal accident to Jane

    Ballitore · town · Kildare · 1798

    After the rebellion, outlawed insurgents hiding in the mountains made nightly raids for food and money; one group entered the Shackletons' house at Ballitore, threatened the children, and fired a pistol accidentally through a bed. Little Jane Shackleton survived unhurt from that incident but died the next day after her clothes caught fire from a candle.

    Read the passage

    The crushing of the rebellion did not restore peace and safety, and the country long continued far from settled. On the window-sills of the upper story of many gentlemen’s houses large stones were collected, placed there to assist in repelling the attacks of robbers. Travelling coaches were escorted by military guards, and the mail-coach was guarded by two or more powerfully armed men. The outlawed insurgents, who had taken refuge in the mountains, were driven by starvation to make nightly excursions for food, money, and clothes, levying “blackmail ” on the peaceful and timid — nor did they always refrain from violence and even murder. On one occasion the marauders entered the Shackletons’ house, and visited the room where the children lay in their beds. They asked the little Elizabeth where her father kept his money. She cried and said she did not know. “I know,” cried out little Jane, “where father keeps his money.” “Where, honey?” said the robbers. “In his breeches pockets,” she answered. They took clothes and broke the furniture. In bursting open a wardrobe with the handle of a pistol the charge exploded, and the ball passed through little Jane’s bedstead. The room filled with smoke, the children screamed, the frightened servants rushed in, and the robbers, also alarmed, hastened to see if the child was killed. She smiled in their faces and told them not to be so frightened, for she was not hurt. Poor little lass, a few hours later that small, brave heart ceased to beat. She had been trusted to go upstairs with a wax taper alone ; her clothes took fire and she was burned. The shock to her constitution was too severe. She suffered but little pain ; and the next morning she got her book and her work into her bed, repeated her little verses, but closed her eyes in death just twenty-four hours after the accident happened.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 270

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballitore, this is where the Shackleton household was raided in the troubled months after the rebellion of 1798. Outlawed insurgents hiding in the mountains, driven by starvation, made nightly raids for food, money and clothes, and one group entered the Shackletons' house and went to the room where the children lay in their beds. They asked little Elizabeth where her father kept his money; she cried and said she did not know. Little Jane spoke up: "I know where father keeps his money." "Where, honey?" said the robbers. "In his breeches pockets," she answered. The raiders took clothes and broke the furniture, and in bursting open a wardrobe with the handle of a pistol the charge exploded, the ball passing through Jane's bedstead. The room filled with smoke and the children screamed. Jane smiled at the frightened robbers and told them not to be so frightened, for she was not hurt. That brave child died the next day from a different accident: she had been trusted to go upstairs alone with a wax taper, her clothes caught fire, and the shock to her constitution was too severe. She suffered little pain, and the next morning she got her book and her work into her bed, repeated her little verses, and closed her eyes in death just 24 hours after the accident.

21. Shackleton's boarding school at Ballitore educates Edmund Burke

    Ballitore · town · Kildare · 1726–1803

    Abraham Shackleton opened a boarding school at Ballitore in 1726 where classics were taught with great success, and pupils were not necessarily Quakers. Edmund Burke and his brothers became pupils in 1741, and Burke remained a lifelong friend of the Shackleton family.

    Read the passage

    About the end of the seventeenth century, two of the Society of Friends — Barcroft and Strettel by name — purchased the land, and transformed its appearance by plantations of forest trees and orchards, with quickset hedges round the fields. The taste and industry of its new owners quickly made the neighbourhood a scene of rural beauty. It was, no doubt, the fact of its being a Quaker colony that induced Abraham Shackleton, a Yorkshire Quaker, to settle there in 1726. From that date till a hundred years later Ballitore was like an oasis in a wilderness — a centre of educational and philanthropic influence and light. Abraham Shackleton opened a boardingschool there in 1726, in which the classics were taught with great success. The pupils were not necessarily of the Quaker sect — in fact, only ten out of sixty boarders were Quakers. In 1741, Garrett, Edmund, and Richard Burke became his pupils ; and from this school, three years later, that splendid genius, Edmund Burke, entered T.GD. It speaks volumes for the intelligence and culture of the Shackleton family that Edmund Burke continued their firm friend to his death, kept up a constant correspondence with the son and successor of his old master, and often revisited the little village to see his old friends. The school founded by the first Shackleton was carried on under his son and grandson for seventy-three years, and was only closed in 1803 because of scruples felt by the grandson about reading and teaching classical authors. It was, however, re-opened in 1807, and maintained for many years.

    4 j6 ballitore and its associations.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 267

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is the town of Ballitore in Kildare. Around the end of the seventeenth century, two members of the Society of Friends, Barcroft and Strettel, bought the land here and planted forest trees and orchards, with quickset hedges round the fields, turning the neighbourhood into a scene of rural beauty. That Quaker colony drew Abraham Shackleton, a Yorkshire Quaker, to settle here in 1726, and he opened a boarding school the same year, teaching the classics with great success. The pupils were not necessarily Quakers. Only 10 out of 60 boarders were of the sect. In 1741, Garrett, Edmund, and Richard Burke became his pupils, and three years later Edmund Burke entered Trinity College Dublin from this school. Burke remained a firm friend of the Shackleton family to his death, kept up a constant correspondence with the son and successor of his old master, and often revisited the little village to see his old friends. The school was carried on under Shackleton's son and grandson for 73 years, and was closed in 1803 because the grandson had scruples about reading and teaching classical authors. It was re-opened in 1807 and maintained for many years after.

22. The Great Kernanstown (Browne's Hill) Cromlech

    Kernanstown · townland · Carlow

    The covering stone of the Kernanstown cromlech is claimed to be the largest in Ireland and Europe, weighing about 100 tons, measuring 28.5 feet long, 22 feet broad, 65 feet in girth, and 4 to 6 feet thick.

    Read the passage

    According to William C. Borlase,1 the greatest living authority on the cromlechs of Ireland, the covering stone of the Kernanstown cromlech is not only the largest in Ireland, but the largest in Europe. It has been calculated to weigh 100 tons. The length of this huge granite boulder is 28| feet, in breadth 22 feet, in girth 65 feet, and in thickness from 4 to 6 feet.

    How in those primitive times such an enormous mass of stone was raised still remains a mystery. There are three theories brought forward, not one of which is really satisfactory, which endeavour to explain how the work may have been done.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 223

23. The Legend of the Ape of Woodstock Castle

    Woodstock Castle · castle · Kildare

    According to tradition, an infant son of a chieftain at Woodstock Castle near Athy was left behind when the castle caught fire, but was rescued by a tame ape who carried him to safety in a tower. In commemoration, the Earl of Kildare and his descendants adopted a monkey as their crest.

    Read the passage

    The monkey had rescued their fancied prey, And placed him in yonder tower.

    * * * * * * For centuries now hath the monkey been In his dark unconscious rest ;

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 181

    As the companion tells it

    Right beside the road here is Woodstock Castle. Tradition says when the castle caught fire, a chieftain's infant son was left behind, but a tame ape carried the child to safety in a tower. The Earl of Kildare and his descendants took a monkey as their crest to mark the rescue.

24. Shawn Reilly's Escape in a Churn at Baltinglass

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1798

    Pursued by soldiers in Baltinglass, Shawn Reilly hid inside a churn in a house where churning was underway; a jilted servant named Maggie Doyle poured boiling water into the churn to scald him but he was released once the soldiers left.

    Read the passage

    Captain Saunders had a large corps of yeomanry, which was mainly composed of his own tenants. An informer, named Joe Hawkins, gave information, and on a certain day the commanding officer, who had information from Joe Hawkins of the names of the United Irishmen in the corps, went to Captain Saunders, and told him of the fact. Captain Saunders would not believe this. The yeomanry were paraded before the mansion in Saunders’ Grove. They were called upon to stand forward, any who were United Irishmen, and nineteen came forward. Captain Saunders was amazed. He waited on the prisoners, and told them to be of good heart, as no overt act was attributed to any of them. Next morning they were asked to give information of the rebellion, but they one and all declined. There were thirty-four shot on Dunlavin Green next morning, including Joe Hawkins, the informer. One of them — a man named Prendergast — was shot in the bowels. His body was given to his friends. On the way home it was noticed that he breathed. His friends looked after his wounds, and he completely recovered and entered Captain Morley Saunders’ employment, and lived many years. There was one escape that took place in Baltinglass worth recording. One Shawn Reilly was closely pursued by the military. He was seen to enter a gateway that leads to several houses. Reilly made for one, in which churning was going on, and was clapped into the churn. The soldiers, having searched the other houses, entered this, but the churning proceeded. A servant, named Maggie Doyle, who had been jilted by Reilly, got a kettle of boiling water and commenced to scald the churn. Poor Reilly couldn’t cry out, but as soon as the soldiers disappeared he was speedily released. Once, when hiding in St. Kevin’s Bed at Glendalough, Michael Dwyer was betrayed by a cripple called “ Billy in the Bowl.’* He hobbled along, sitting in a wooden bowl, on hand-stools. He watched Dwyer, and saw him enter the Bed, and gave information to the military. Dwyer saw him point to his retreat, and while pointing out its location he was shot by Dwyer. The commander ordered the soldiers to enter, but several were hurled back dead into the lake. An order was given to procure timber for rafts and scaling ladders ; but when it arrived, it was found that the bird had flown, having, under cover of darkness, scaled the rocks above the Bed.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 220

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now, you are near Baltinglass in Wicklow. In 1798, this town saw a remarkable escape. Before that, though, there was the business at Saunders Grove. Captain Saunders kept a large corps of yeomanry, mostly his own tenants. An informer named Joe Hawkins gave the commanding officer the names of the United Irishmen in the corps. The officer told Captain Saunders, who would not believe it. The yeomanry were paraded before the mansion at Saunders Grove. Any who were United Irishmen were called on to stand forward, and nineteen came forward. Captain Saunders was amazed. He waited on the prisoners and told them to be of good heart, as no overt act was attributed to any of them. Next morning they were asked to give information about the rebellion, but they all declined. Thirty-four were shot on Dunlavin Green the next morning, including Joe Hawkins the informer. One of them, a man named Prendergast, was shot in the bowels. His body was given to his friends. On the way home they noticed he was breathing. They looked after his wounds and he completely recovered, entered Captain Morley Saunders' employment, and lived many years. Then there was the escape in Baltinglass itself. Shawn Reilly was closely pursued by the military. He was seen to enter a gateway that leads to several houses. He made for one where churning was going on, and was clapped into the churn. The soldiers searched the other houses, then entered this one, but the churning proceeded. A servant named Maggie Doyle, who had been jilted by Reilly, got a kettle of boiling water and commenced to scald the churn. Poor Reilly could not cry out, but as soon as the soldiers disappeared he was speedily released.

25. The Headstone and Votive Rags near Ony's Bush

    Kilranelagh · townland · Wicklow

    A large upright stone called 'the headstone' near Ony's Bush has a round hole thought variously to be a pagan beheading site or connected to the nuns' massacre; until recently it was venerated with votive rags tied to a nearby bush.

    Read the passage

    Everyone says that the name of the townland “ Spinans ” is a form of the words “ Spy Nuns.” It is said in the neighbourhood that in Oliver Cromwell’s time some nuns took flight from Baltinglass for Kilranelagh, but were seen by soldiers from Kadeen Mountain ; and according to the story these men came down and massacred the nuns. A thorn-bush is pointed out as the spot where the Mother Superior was killed, with one of the Sisters, and is known as “Ony’s Bush,” “ Ony ” being thought to be an abbreviated form of “ Honoria.” A large stone which stands upright at a distance of a few hundred yards from Ony’s Bush is called “ the headstone.” There is a round hole in it three or four feet above the ground. Some think that in pagan times men were put with their heads in this hole while being beheaded ; some think that some more recent tragedy was enacted there ; perhaps some of the nuns may have met their death there. Until comparatively lately it was a venerated spot, and votive rags were tied on a bush beside the headstone ; and a few years ago I was able to see a few threads round a twig : and by this time probably all trace of these votive rags is gone. St. Bridget is supposed to have left the impression of her hand on a stone when stooping to drink from a well.

    Beyond Kilranelagh there is a circle of druidical stones standing upright almost like tombstones. Near these there used^to be an underground passage ; the mouth of it was filled up, as it was dangerous for cattle. “ Byrne of the Grove” told me that his father went to his farm there when he was ten years old : that might have been eighty years ago ; and at that time a party went down this passage until they were afraid to go any further.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 215

26. Murder of Mr Hume of Humewood in 1798

    Coolkenna · townland · Wicklow · 1798

    Mr Hume of Humewood was murdered in 1798; a leaflet recorded in the Coolkenno parish register announced a reward for the murderer's conviction, listing Wicklow gentry subscriptions including three of £100 each.

    Read the passage

    At Coolkenno I saw in the parish register the leaflet which was printed after the murder of Mr. Hume, of Humewood, in “ ’98.” It announced that it had been determined to offer a reward for the conviction of the murderer, and the names of the Wicklow gentry were appended, and the amount which each promised to subscribe. The list commenced with several sums of £50, then smaller amounts, and concluded with three contributions of £100 each. Moore, who shot Mr. Hume, was hung from an ash-tree, now dead, over the well called Tubberowen at Rathdangan. His body was then gibbeted on Carrig

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 214

27. The Round Tower of Clondalkin, an early perfect specimen

    near Clondalkin · town · Dublin

    The Round Tower of Clondalkin is described as a very perfect and beautiful specimen, likely of early date due to its lintel construction. It stands 84 feet high with a base circumference of 45 feet, and was built as a refuge from pagan Danish raiders to protect priests, sacred books, and vessels.

    Read the passage

    No doubt it owes its origin to the imperious necessity of erecting some refuge from the pagan Danes — a shelter where the priests and sacred books, vestments, and vessels might be preserved. In after ages, as we have seen, Clondalkin was occupied by Danish families then become Christians, and zealous to devote their property to the cause of the Church.

    The height of the tower is 84 feet ; circumference at base, 45 feet. The wall is 3 feet thick at the doorway, which is 15 feet from the ground-level; of these 15 feet, 12 feet are solid masonry. The lower part of the tower was cased in masonry about the year 1780. The steps are quite modern. The cap was repaired and cemented by the Board of Works about twelve years ago. The upper windows were evidently enlarged when the apartment which they light was fitted up in modern times.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 8

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Clondalkin, you are near one of the finest round towers still standing in Ireland, a very perfect and beautiful specimen likely of early date. It was built as a refuge from the pagan Danes, a shelter where priests and sacred books, vestments, and vessels might be preserved. In later ages, Danish families who had become Christians occupied Clondalkin and devoted their property to the Church. The tower stands 84 feet high, with a circumference of 45 feet at the base. The wall is 3 feet thick at the doorway, which sits 15 feet above ground level, 12 of those feet being solid masonry. The lower part was cased in masonry around 1780, and the steps are modern. The Board of Works repaired and cemented the cap about twelve years before the record was written, and the upper windows were enlarged when the apartment they light was fitted up in modern times.

28. Castle and bawn of Rathangan lost through treachery

    Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1535

    Four or five days before August 1st, Thomas FitzGerald with O'Connor's aid assaulted the Court and Castle of Rathangan again; the garrison first lost the bawn and then yielded the castle through the treachery of Felim Boy O'Connor, who had been entrusted with victualling the garrison.

    Read the passage

    ‘‘Four or five daies befor our arryvall (i.e., in Dublin, on the 1st August), the tray tor (Thomas FitzGerald), with the aide of Ochonor, assaulted agayne the Court (i.e., the bawn) and Castele of Rathangan, wherein was certen of the retynew of Sir William Breretons, who firste loste the base curte, and after yielded the Castell, which was brought to passe by the tradyment (treachery) of Felom Boy Ochonor, whom, after he was indighted and arrayned of diverse treasons, murdurs and felonies before us, at Kildare, befor our last comeing into Inglande, my Lord Deputie, withought proces or order of law, constrayned the Shirif to delyver him at large, and after put him in trust for the vitteleng and over sight of the said garrison. Mr. Thesaurer, the next daie after, not having perfete knowledge thereof, but thinking with his cumpany to make a jornaie into Allon, where the said tray tour was socored, which is not past four miles from the Naas, yet to be suer, whether it were true or not, resorted thiderwarde ; and if knowledge had not been sent befor, by some of thois which were in his awne cumpany, as al be fals traitours of theis Geraldines, he had founde Thomas, with many of his cumpany, within the Castell and Curte ; but, ere he came, they fledd, and so he entered the Castell and Court agayne ; albeit, no Inglishman would tary in it to kepe it, neither good wisdom wold, that any of them shuld be left

    1 f‘ Holinshed’s Chronicles of Ireland.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun

29. Fenian gathering and dispersal near Tallaght, 1867

    near Tallaght · town · Dublin · 1867

    Hundreds of largely unarmed peasantry gathered near Tallaght on 4th March for a planned Fenian march on Dublin, but their leaders never appeared. Local constabulary dispersed the crowds with a few shots fired, several arrests made, and weapons abandoned in fields as snow fell that night.

    Read the passage

    4th of March, from whence the march on Dublin was to take place ; and though many hundreds of practically unarmed peasantry gathered from the surrounding district, their leaders did not put in an appearance. The local constabulary were able to disperse the large, unorganized contingents as they approached ; and though both sides fired a few shots, no one was killed. Several arrests were made, and a cart or two of ammunition captured. A heavy fall of snow that night helped to dishearten the Fenian army, which melted away ; and when the snow did the same, many pistols, muskets, bayonets, daggers, and pike-heads were discovered in the fields and hedges, which had been thrown to one side when the misguided peasants found that discretion was the better part of valour.

    The name “ Fenian ” (or Fin-yeen, as the country people pronounce it) was selected by the leaders of the movement for their title, from the name of an ancient militia under the leadership of the celebrated Finn Mac Coole, called “ The Feena Erin,” which existed in Ireland in the second century.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 22

30. Harper Owen Keenan of Cappanargid pardoned

    Cappanargid · townland · Kildare · 1540

    In 1540 a pardon was granted to Owen Keenan, harper to the late Earl of Kildare, known as Owen the Rhymer or the blind bard, of Cappanargid near Rathangan, along with his son Cornelius Keenan, also a harper.

    Read the passage

    In 1540 occurs the pardon (probably for participation in the recent rebellion) of the late Earl of Kildare’s harper — Owen Keenan of “ Cappervarget ” (Cappanargid) near Rathangan. The pardon describes him as “ Owen Keynan harper, servant to Gerald late Earl of Kildare, otherwise Owen the Rhymer, otherwise Owen Keynan the Poet, otherwise Owen Keyeghe (i.e., caecli = blind) Keynan, the blind bard; and Cornelius (or Con) Keynan harper, son of Owen Keyeghe Keynan, of Cappervarget.” 3

    In 1546 the descendants of the uncles of the Silken Thomas, especially the sons of Sir James FitzGerald, of Leixlip, who had been outlawed for rebellion, and who had been either in

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun

31. Haunting of Duffy's House at Rathvilly

    Rathvilly · town · Carlow

    After a dying man named Duffy died without receiving last rites due to a negligent messenger, his house at Rathvilly became haunted with nightly disturbances that sounded destructive but left no damage; Father Gahan of Shillelagh eventually laid the spirit at Rathvilly bridge.

    Read the passage

    Some eighty years or more ago, a man named Duffy was dying in Rathvilly. A priest was sent for, but the messenger neglecting his duty, the poor man died without seeing the priest. After this the house was said to be haunted, and night after night people assembled to hear the disturbances which took place. It sounded as if everything in the house was being broken to pieces ; but it was always found in the morning that no damage whatever had been done. The disturbance, however, was so great that Father Gahan, of Shillelagh, was sent for to “ lay the spirit.” This he did in the first instance for seven years ; but as at the end of that term the disturbances were renewed, he laid the spirit again, this time for ever —

    “ In the eye of the bridge,

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 214

32. Margaret O'Carroll's great hospitality feast at Rathangan, 1483

    Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1483

    In 1483, Margaret, daughter of Teige O'Carroll and wife of Calvagh O'Connor Faly, hosted a renowned banquet at Rathangan for the Brehons, Poets, Bards, Harpers and Musicians of Ireland on the feast of the Assumption, 15th August, one of two famous 'general invitations of hospitality' recorded by the Four Masters.

    Read the passage

    The year 1483 was an eventful one in the history of Leinster, owing to — as “ The Annals of the Four Masters ” put it — “ two general invitations of hospitality which were given to the colleges and professional men by Margaret, the daughter of O’Carroll (Teige), and wife of O’Conor Ealy (Calvagh).” As will be shown further on, these entertainments to the Brehons, Poets, Bards, Harpers, and Musicians of Ireland, took place on the Patron Saints’ Days at Killeigli, in the King’s County, and at Rathangan, viz., on the 26th of March, the festival of St. Senchall the Elder, at the former ; and on the 15th of August, the feast-day of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, at the latter. Those literati who were unable to be present on the first occasion received invitations to the banquet at Rathangan. Their renowned hostess was Margaret, daughter of Teige O’Carroll, Chief of Ely-O’Carroll, a district in the King’s County now comprised in the Baronies of Clonlisk and Ballybritt, whose chief castle was at Lemyvannan (O’Bannan’s leap), now known as Leap Castle. Teige O’Carroll, styled “ the general patron of the literati of Ireland,” was slain in battle, at Callan in Kilkenny, in the year 1407. Margaret’s husband was Calvagh “more” (the Great), son of Murrough “11a Madhmann,” or “ of the defeats ” (inflicted on his enemies), O’Connor, Chief of Offaly, who died in 1458. In the accompanying chart their children are shown (as far as can be ascertained) : three of them — Felim, Teige, and Finola — are expressly mentioned by the “ Four Masters ” as being the issue of Margaret; and the remainder would also be her children unless Calvagh O’Connor was previously married, which event, however, is not recorded.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 91

33. Mesgedra's Death and Burial at the Fords of Clane

    Clane · town · Kildare · 33

    According to legend, the fleeing King Mesgedra of Leinster took refuge under the Sacred Oak on the Liffey bank above the fords of Clane, where he was later slain by Conall Carnach. His wife Buana died of grief upon seeing his severed head, and Conall ordered a mound and standing stone raised for her near the Liffey at Clane.

    Read the passage

    So chanced it, as the doleful daylight broke,

    That wandering devious with disordered rein His steeds had reached beside the Sacred Oak On Liffey’s bank, above the fords of Clane.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 228

34. Michael Dwyer Shoots the McGuinness Brothers Near Baltinglass

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow

    Near Baltinglass, rebel chief Michael Dwyer shot the McGuinness brothers when they refused to guarantee they would not reveal his whereabouts to Mr. Hume's Yeomanry stationed in the area.

    Read the passage

    street, and their heads left to bleach on the gaol. (These disused premises were sold, in 1898, to a company, comprising the gentry, clergy, shopkeepers, and farmers of the neighbourhood. They spent ^B600 on the purchase of the premises and reconstruction of them. They contain a spacious and handsome racket-court and concert-hall, also reading and billiard-rooms.) It was near Baltinglass that the rebel chief, Michael Dwyer, shot the brothers M‘Guinness, when they declined to give him a guarantee that they would not make his whereabouts known to Mr. Hume’s Yeomanry, who were in the neighbourhood. It was in Baltinglass that Paul Brophy, of Bathmoon, was hung from a beam between the houses of Mr. John Hourihan and Mr. Bailey. To the west of the Slaney six young men were executed, at a place called Hallows Hill. And how true tradition is ! I saw their skeletons exhumed, when the railway cutting was being made, some twenty-three years ago. Michael Dwyer and his faithful friend, Sam McAlister, also known as “ Antrim Jack,” frequently hid in caves on these mountains, whose chain commences from the one above the town. The death scene of McAlister is deserving of mention. Michael Dwyer, McAlister, and John Savage were in a house at Barnamuck when the place was surrounded by the soldiers. The military fired on the place, and broke McAlister’s arm. It was a matter of all being shot. McAlister said to Dwyer: “I am no use now, and you can’t be spared. Savage and I will go to the door as if to escape. We shall be shot. Let you then escape in the smoke.” The plan succeeded. They gave their lives for their friend, who regained his freedom.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 219

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Baltinglass, you are near the spot where the rebel chief Michael Dwyer shot the McGuinness brothers. They had declined to give him a guarantee that they would not reveal his whereabouts to Mr. Hume's Yeomanry, who were stationed in the neighbourhood. Dwyer was a wanted man hiding in these mountains, and he could not risk being given up. The same town saw Paul Brophy of Bathmoon hanged from a beam between the houses of Mr. John Hourihan and Mr. Bailey. To the west of the Slaney, six young men were executed at a place called Hallows Hill. Their skeletons were found years later when the railway cutting was being made, about 23 years before this account was written. Dwyer and his faithful friend Sam McAlister, also known as Antrim Jack, frequently hid in caves on these mountains, whose chain begins from the one above the town. McAlister later gave his life for Dwyer at Barnamuck. When soldiers surrounded the house and broke McAlister's arm, he told Dwyer he was no use now and could not be spared. McAlister and John Savage went to the door as if to escape, were shot, and Dwyer escaped in the smoke.

35. Panic-stricken defeat of English forces at Geashill, 1406

    Geashill · town · Offaly · 1406

    In an ambush at the townland of Clonummeras near Geashill, Calvagh O'Conor struck a stolen cauldron with a thrown stone, and the loud noise caused sudden panic among the plundering English and Irish troops, who fled and were slaughtered with losses of over three hundred men.

    Read the passage

    “ A great defeat was given by Murrough (mac Murtough) O’Conor, Lord of Offaly, with his son Calvagh, and the sons of O’Conor Roe (of Connaught), namely, Cathal Duv and Teige, who had come to Offaly with a troop of cavalry for his assistance, to the English of Meath, and to Owen ‘mac an-Abbaidh ’ (son of the Abbot) O’Conor, who had the retained kerns of Connaught with him. Both these armies repaired to the upper part of Geashill (in the King’s County). And Owen, the son of the Abbot, with his own band of kerns, went to Clonummeras, and to the town (homestead) of Gillaboy mac Maelcorra, where Calvagh and Cathal, attended by six horsemen, came up with Owen and his people as they were collecting the spoils of the town. The proprietor, Gillaboy mac Maelcorra, of this town had a cauldron, which he had borrowed from Calvagh, for brewing beer. And on seeing Calvagh coming towards him, he said : — ‘There is thy cauldron with the kerns, 0 Calvagh ! and I ordered it to be given to thee.’ ‘I accept of it where it is,’ said Calvagh. The cauldron was at this time on the back of a young man, one of the plunderers of the town. And Calvagh O’ Conor flung a stone, which he happened to have in his hand, successfully at him, and which, striking against the cauldron, produced such a noise and sound as struck a sudden terror and panic in the hearts of all the plunderers, so that they instantly took to flight. They were swiftly pursued, slaughtered, and vanquished. The son of the Abbot O’Conor was slain on the bog, north of the town. And their loss was not less than three hundred persons, both English and Irish, in the route from thence to Clonainy in Crinagedach (in the Parish of Castlejordan, King’s County). It was on this expedition that the chief relic of Connaught, namely ‘ the Buacach-Patraig ’ (? St. Patrick’s mitre), which had been preserved at Elphin, was taken from the English.”

    W. FitzG.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 140

36. Roderic O'Connor marches on Clondalkin in 1171

    near Clondalkin · town · Dublin · 1171

    In 1171 Roderic O'Connor marched to Clondalkin to give battle to the English forces from Dublin. Milo de Cogan, Raymond le Gros and Strongbow led large forces against him, but no decisive battle took place and Roderic retired.

    Read the passage

    In 1171 Roderic O’Connor marched to Clondalkin to give battle to the English in Dublin. Milo de Cogan led 700 troops against him, while Raymond le Gros commanded the main body of 800, and Strongbow led 800 English with 1,000 Irish. No decisive battle took place, and Roderic retired having effected nothing.

    Notwithstanding its close proximity to Dublin, Clondalkin long continued exposed to the depredations of the Irish, who descended from the Dublin mountains to ravage and plunder. It gives us a strange picture of the state of Ireland when we read that in 1826 part of the manor of Clondalkin was returned as “ waste, being among the Irishry.” Two hundred years later, Archbishop Brown, writing from his country house at Tallaght, close by, complained of the Tooles as his mortal enemies, daily oppressing his “ poor tenants.” And in 1578 they made an incursion into Tallaght, and slew a nephew and

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 6

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Clondalkin, you are near where Roderic O'Connor marched in 1171 to give battle to the English in Dublin. Milo de Cogan led 700 troops against him, Raymond le Gros commanded 800, and Strongbow led 800 English with 1,000 Irish. No decisive battle took place, and Roderic retired having effected nothing. Despite its closeness to Dublin, Clondalkin long stayed exposed to raids from the Irish descending from the Dublin mountains. As late as 1826 part of the manor was returned as "waste, being among the Irishry." Two hundred years earlier, Archbishop Brown, writing from Tallaght nearby, complained of the Tooles as his mortal enemies, daily oppressing his poor tenants. In 1578 they made an incursion into Tallaght and slew a nephew.

37. Saggart burned by Baltinglass and Feagh mac Hugh O'Byrne, 1580

    Saggart · town · Dublin · 1580

    In 1580 the town of Saggart was burned by Viscount Baltinglass and Feagh mac Hugh O'Byrne, who was described by Sir G. Carew as ruling his own country with a den of thieves.

    Read the passage

    In 1580, the town was burned by Viscount Baltinglass and Feagh mac Hugh O’Byrne, the latter of whom was a considerable source of annoyance to the English. Sir G. Carew (1590) thus alludes to him : —

    “ Those that dwell even within the sight of the smoke of Dublin are not subject to the laws. The very gall of Ireland, and the flame from which all others take their lights, is our next neighbour Pheaghe McHugh, who, like one absolute within himself, with his den of thieves, ruleth all things in his own country at his own will, refusing in person to come to the Governor, and spoiling his neighbours, who for fear dare not complain. His force does not exceed one hundred persons. His neighbours would help to cut him off. The Cavanaghs, who rely upon him, are entered into the like kind of life.” In the “Description of Ireland, 1598,” we find Den of Tassagard and Fount of Tassagard mentioned as “men of name in this Countie.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 49

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Saggart, this was a town that saw fire in 1580. Viscount Baltinglass and Feagh mac Hugh O'Byrne burned it that year. O'Byrne was a considerable source of annoyance to the English, and Sir G. Carew, writing around 1590, called him "the very gall of Ireland, and the flame from which all others take their lights." Carew wrote that even those who dwelt within sight of the smoke of Dublin were not subject to the laws, and that O'Byrne, "like one absolute within himself, with his den of thieves, ruleth all things in his own country at his own will." His force did not exceed 100 persons, though neighbours who feared him dared not complain. By 1598, the Description of Ireland mentions the Den of Tassagard and the Fount of Tassagard as men of name in this county.

38. Silken Thomas's Banquet Exchange with Sir John Alen

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1534

    At a banquet in Dublin shortly before Lord Thomas FitzGerald (Silken Thomas) rebelled in 1534, Sir John Alen of St. Wolstan's mocked the Geraldine crest of the marmoset, and Thomas retorted with a sharp reply about eating one's own tail, as recorded in Holinshed's Chronicles.

    Read the passage

    “The Lord Thomas being Justice or Vice-deputie in his father’s absence, fetched both the Alens. (i.e., Sir John Alen, Kt., and his first cousin & namesake John Alen, Arehhishop of Dublin) so roundlie over the hips, as well by secret drifts as open taunts, as they were the more eagerlie spurd to compasse his confusion. For the Lord Justice and the Councell, with diverse of the nobilitie, at a solemne banket discoursing of the anciencie of houses and their armes, Sir John Alen spake to the Lord Justice these words ‘ My lord, your house giveth the Marmoset whose property is to eat his owne taile.’ Meaning thereby, as the Lord Thomas supposed, that Kildare did use to pill and poll his freends tenants and retainers. These words were no sooner spoken, than the Lord Thomas striking the ball to Alen againe, answered, as one that was somewhat slipper-toongued, in this wise : ‘ You saie truth, Sir, indeed. I heard some saie that the Marmoset eateth his owne taile; but although you have beene fed by your taile, yet would I advise you to beware that your taile eat not you.’”

    Prior to the outbreak of the Silken Thomas’s Rebellion, neither the Irish Annals nor the Calendars of State Papers have any reference to Woodstock Castle.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 182

    As the companion tells it

    Dublin, 1534. Lord Thomas FitzGerald, called Silken Thomas, was serving as Justice in his father's absence, and already there was bad blood between him and the two Alens, Sir John Alen and his cousin John Alen, Archbishop of Dublin. The chronicler Holinshed says Thomas had baited them so sharply, by secret drifts and open taunts, that they were spurred to compass his confusion. At a solemn banquet, with the Lord Justice, the Council, and diverse nobility present, talk turned to the antiquity of houses and their arms. Sir John Alen spoke to Lord Thomas and said, "My lord, your house giveth the Marmoset whose property is to eat his owne taile." He meant, as Thomas supposed, that Kildare pillaged and polled his own friends, tenants, and retainers. Thomas struck the ball straight back. Holinshed calls him somewhat slipper-tongued. He answered, "You saie truth, Sir, indeed. I heard some saie that the Marmoset eateth his owne taile; but although you have beene fed by your taile, yet would I advise you to beware that your taile eat not you."

39. Tallaght named for a 'Plague Grave' of ancient colonists

    near Tallaght · town · Dublin

    The name Tallaght derives from Irish words meaning 'Plague Grave', tied by the Annals of the Four Masters to the annihilation of Ireland's first colonists under Parthalon by plague around 2,380 BC. Their burial site became known as Taimh-leacht-Mhuintire-Parthaloin, later shortened to Tallaght.

    Read the passage

    These early colonists, according to the tradition of the country, had landed in Ireland from Greece, under a leader named Parthalon, about 300 years previously, and had settled in the east of Ireland, in a district which was known as Shan-vaalta-Edar (Seanmhagh-ealta-Edair), i.e., “ The Plain of the Flocks of Edar,” from whom the Hill of Howth, in ancient times, was named Ben-Edar, or the Peak of Edar.1 That portion of this plain, where the interments of the Parthalonian colony principally took place, was thenceforward known as “ Taimh-leacht-Mhuintire-Parthaloin,” a name in after ages shortened to Tallaght. In other parts of the country this name appears as Tawlaght, Towlaght, and Toulett ; and when in combination with other words, the first T is often aspirated, as, for instance, in Derryhowlaght, a townland in the County Fermanagh, which, according to Dr. Joyce, means “ The Oakwood of the Plague Grave.”

    As if in corroboration of the legend connecting Tallaght with the destruction of the Parthalonian colony, this locality has been particularly rich in finds of pagan sepulchres, more especially at a place close by called “ Green Hills,” where, in 1898, Colonel G. T. Plunkett, the Director of the Science and Art Museum in Dublin, caused a pagan interment (consisting of a small “ cist,” or slab-lined grave, containing burial-urns) to be bodily raised from the ground, and in this condition it is to be seen, with the surrounding clay undisturbed on three sides, in a glass-case in the room containing the Royal Irish Academy’s Collection of Irish Antiquities.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 13

40. The pillar-stone of Rathcoole and Simon Magus's Rowing Wheel legend

    Rathcoole · town · Dublin

    According to O'Curry's account of the Prophecies of Saint Colum Cille, the druid Mogh Ruith's daughter Tlachtga set up a pillar-stone at Forchairthinn near Rathcoole using remains of Simon Magus's magical Rowing Wheel; the stone was said to strike anyone who looked at it blind, and anyone who touched it dead.

    Read the passage

    “ As to the first prediction, that is, the coming of what is called the Brat Baghach or Flag of Battles, it is evident enough that this was to be a fleet of the Danes or Northmen, who were to be broken against the pillar- stone of Cnamhchoill. Now Cnamhchoill was an ancient wood, situated near the present town of Tipperary ; and the history of the pillar-stone which stood in it, as it is handed down to us, is shortly this : — Mogh Ruith, the Archdruid of Erinn, having, as we have seen in a former lecture, exhausted the druidic knowledge of the best masters in Erinn and Scotland, travelled with his daughter into Italy, where they put themselves under the tuition of Simon Magus, and assisted him in his contention with the Apostles. And it was with their assistance that Simon was said to have built the Roth Ramhach, or ‘Rowing Wheel,’ by means of which he sailed in the air, to show that his miraculous powers were greater than those of the Apostles. The Druid and his daughter (whose name was Tlachtga) returned home afterwards, the daughter carrying with her what remained of the materials of the Rowing Wheel, which appears to have consisted of two pieces of rock, one of which she set up in Forchairthinn, somewhere in the neighbourhood of Raith Chumhaill (Rathcoole, I think, in the present County of Dublin), and the other at Cnamhchoill (in Tipperary). These rocks, or pillars, it was said, retained their share of the destructive influence of the £ Rowing Wheel,’ as everyone who looked at them was struck with blindness, and everyone who touched them, with death.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 42

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Rathcoole, in County Dublin. Near here, at a place called Forchairthinn, a pillar-stone once stood with a strange and dark history. The story comes from O'Curry's account of the Prophecies of Saint Colum Cille. Mogh Ruith was the Archdruid of Erinn. He had exhausted the druidic knowledge of the best masters in Erinn and Scotland, and so he travelled with his daughter Tlachtga into Italy, where they put themselves under the tuition of Simon Magus. They assisted Simon in his contention with the Apostles. With their help, Simon was said to have built the Roth Ramhach, the Rowing Wheel, by means of which he sailed in the air, to show that his miraculous powers were greater than those of the Apostles. The druid and his daughter returned home afterwards. Tlachtga carried with her what remained of the materials of the Rowing Wheel, which appears to have consisted of two pieces of rock. She set one up in Forchairthinn, somewhere in the neighbourhood of Rathcoole in the present County of Dublin, and the other at Cnamhchoill in Tipperary. These rocks, or pillars, were said to have retained their share of the destructive influence of the Rowing Wheel. Everyone who looked at them was struck with blindness, and everyone who touched them was struck with death.

41. Archbishop Loftus's nephew slain at gates of Tallaght

    near Tallaght · town · Dublin · 1578

    In May 1578, Archbishop Adam Loftus wrote to Sir Henry Sydney that his nephew and some of his men had been slain at his very gates in Tallaght by the Irishry, described as never more insolent.

    Read the passage

    Four years later (i.e., May of 1578) the same Archbishop wrote to Sir Henry Sydney that his nephew and some of his men had been slain at his very gates in Tallaght, by “ the Irishry, who were never more insolent than now.3 The nephew here mentioned was a member of the Archbishop’s wife’s family — the Purdons of the County Louth.

    From this period to the middle of the seventeenth century the Archbishops of Dublin continued to occupy the Manorhouse, and in it died Archbishop Lancelot Bulkeley, on the 8th September, 1650, in his eighty-second year ; he was the builder of the Old Bawn House in 1635, as that date appears on one of the chimney-pieces in the house, and his coat-of-arms, impaling the See of Dublin, is carved on another.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 18

42. Baltinglass named for hunting disaster of Cu-glas

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow

    The name Baltinglass derives from 'Bealach Chonghlais', Cuglas's Road, after Cuglas, Master of the Hounds to Monarch Conary More, pursued a boar into a cave near the site and never emerged. A natural cave on Carr's Rock, part of Baltinglass Hill, is said to be linked to this legend and remains unexplored.

    Read the passage

    THE original name of Baltinglass was “ Bealach-Dubhthaire,” meaning Dubhthaire’s Road or Pass.1 Its present name is a corrupted form of “ Bealacb Chonghlais,” or Cuglas’s Road, a name it obtained from a bunting disaster which, according to an ancient manuscript called the Dinn-seanchus, included in the Book of Lecain, occurred during the reign of Conary “ More,” Monarch of Ireland from b.c. 109 till his death in b.c. 40. Cu-glas, who was the son of Donn Desa, King of Leinster, held the position of Master of the Hounds to the Monarch Conary “ More.” On one occasion he proceeded from Tara with the hounds, and having started a wild boar he set off in pursuit of it; the boar, taking a southerly course, was hunted to Bealacb Dubhthaire, where, being hard pressed, it sought refuge in a cave. With the intention of driving it out, Cuglas and the hounds followed it in, but not one of them ever issued forth again. From this adventure the place received its present name.2 On the Carr’s Rock portion of Baltinglass Hill there is a natural cave into which boys have entered for a considerable distance, but it has never been properly explored.

    Until the year 1148, when the Abbey of Baltinglass (or “ Balkynglass,” as old documents more correctly write it) was founded,3 there is nothing recorded about the place; and, what is very strange, “ The Annals of the Four Masters ” make no mention whatever of Baltinglass at any period, though the Abbey was founded by a King of Leinster.4

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 244

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming through Baltinglass now, a town in Wicklow whose name hides an old hunting tale. The original name was Bealach-Dubhthaire, Dubhthaire's Pass, but it became Bealach Chonghlais, Cuglas's Road, after a disaster recorded in the Dinn-seanchus, an ancient manuscript in the Book of Lecain. Cuglas was son of Donn Desa, King of Leinster, and served as Master of the Hounds to the Monarch Conary More, who ruled Ireland from about 109 to about 40 BC. Cuglas set out from Tara with the hounds and started a wild boar. The boar ran south, hard pressed, and took refuge in a cave at this place. Cuglas and the hounds followed it in, meaning to drive it out, but not one of them ever emerged again. The place took its name from that. There is a natural cave on Carr's Rock, part of Baltinglass Hill, that boys have entered for some distance, but it has never been properly explored. Nothing else is recorded about the place until 1148, when the Abbey of Baltinglass was founded by a King of Leinster. Oddly, the Annals of the Four Masters never mention the place at any period, not even the Abbey.

43. Father Germaine's Well and St. Booden's Well at Lackan

    Lackan · townland · Wicklow

    The Blessed Well at Lackan, near a churchyard called Temple Booden with St. Booden's grave, was renamed Father Germaine's Well after a local legend that the priest's hat was mysteriously carried off by an unseen force to the well, where he was later found praying and blessed it. The well is famed for its cures and much resorted to by pilgrims.

    Read the passage

    The six-inch Ordnance Survey Map (No. 10) has marked on it, in the Townland of Lackan, a churchyard called “ Temple Booden,” and near it “ St. Booden’s Well.” The saint’s grave in the churchyard is also pointed out. This place lies three miles to the south-east of Blessington. The Blessed Well is half a mile away to the north-east of the churchyard. St. Booden’s Well is famed far and wide for its cures, and is much resorted to. It is now more popularly known as “ Father Germaine’s Well.” The cause of the change in the name, and the following particulars about the well, were told to me on one occasion by an old soldier, who tramps the roads, of the name of Pat Carr : — Some years ago as Father Germaine, the Parish Priest of Blackditch.es, was driving in the locality on a perfectly calm day, his hat was suddenly lifted off his head, as if by a gust of wind, and was carried away, leaping the hedges and ditches as it went. Father Germaine, dismounting from his car, went off in pursuit, leaving instructions with his man to bring the car round by the bog road in the direction the hat had taken. It appears the priest’s hat never stopped its steeplechasing until it reached St. Booden’s Well ; and when the car eventually came up, Father Germaine was discovered kneeling at the well, reading his breviary. Before driving off again he blessed the well, and hence it now goes by his name.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 140

44. Illicit Still and the Turf-Crossing Bogman at Woodstock Castle

    Woodstock Castle · castle · Kildare · 1800–1850

    Early in the century, part of Woodstock Castle was used for an illicit still, and when the distillers ran short of fuel during a severe frost they offered a reward for the first load of turf. An adventurous bogman won by carrying his creel of turf across the frozen river near Rathstewart.

    Read the passage

    Early last century a portion of the Castle was used for an illicit still ; and a story is told that, having run short of fuel during a very severe frost, the distillers offered a substantial reward to the first man arriving with a load. Brisk competition was the result, and as the many competitors came hurrying along by Bathstewart, an adventurous bogman took his creel of turf across the frozen river, and won the prize.

    In my remembrance a boy who lived in the Shruleen fell from the top of the south-west angle of the keep (B) to the soft turf below. He was an active, nimble lad, and, like the famous monkey, took no harm.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at Woodstock Castle in Kildare, part of the castle was used for an illicit still early in the 1800s. During a very severe frost the distillers ran short of fuel and offered a substantial reward to the first man arriving with a load. Brisk competition followed, and as many competitors came hurrying along by Rathstewart, an adventurous bogman carried his creel of turf across the frozen river and won the prize. The keep still stands, and a boy who once lived in the Shruleen fell from the top of the south-west angle of it down to the soft turf below. He was an active, nimble lad and, like the famous monkey, took no harm.

45. Lord Baltinglass Escapes to Spain via Wexford

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1581

    After hiding in Munster, Lord Baltinglass escaped Ireland in October 1581 aboard a Scottish ship, arranged with the help of Philip Wekens of Wexford, seeking Spanish military aid to renew rebellion.

    Read the passage

    After remaining in Munster for some months, in spite of the vigilance of the Government agents, Lord Baltinglass managed to leave the country in October, 1581, and in a “ Scottish ship ” made his escape to Spain, where he hoped to enlist the sympathies of Philip II, and return to Ireland with a strong force to renew the struggle. The King received him with marked favour, and promised him every assistance. A force of 5,000 men, experienced soldiers, fully equipped and provisioned for two years, were got ready to embark with Lord Baltinglass, when some other Irish leaders, then in Spain, informed the King that it would take another 10,000 men to successfully tackle the English army in Ireland. At this the King became annoyed, and, saying that they did not know their own minds, refused to take any further action for the present. The Lord Deputy was informed of the resolution taken by Philip II through “one Philip Wekens, of Wexford, which did convey the Viscount Baltinglas away.”1

    Through the agency of merchants, trading between Ireland and Spain and Portugal, the Government was kept informed of what was going on in the latter countries. On the 7th of February, 1586, the Lord Deputy wrote to Sir Francis Walsingham, Secretary of State, that he had received the news from one Kiste, or Kyst, a merchant of Dublin, “ that the traitor Baltinglas died five weeks before this last Christmas.”2

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 259

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Wexford now. This town connects to Lord Baltinglass, who fled Ireland in October 1581 after hiding for months in Munster. He escaped aboard a Scottish ship, seeking Spanish military aid to renew the rebellion against the English. The escape was arranged with help from Philip Wekens of Wexford, who the Lord Deputy later identified as the man who conveyed the Viscount Baltinglass away. In Spain, Philip the Second received Baltinglass with favour and promised every assistance. A force of 5,000 experienced soldiers was prepared, fully equipped and provisioned for two years, ready to embark with him. But other Irish leaders then in Spain told the King it would take another 10,000 men to tackle the English army successfully. Philip became annoyed, accused them of not knowing their own minds, and refused to take further action. Baltinglass never returned to Ireland. The Lord Deputy learned of his death in a letter to Sir Francis Walsingham on the 7th of February 1586, reporting that the traitor Baltinglass had died five weeks before Christmas.

46. Orange militia and Ancient Britons billeted on Ballitore during 1798

    Ballitore · town · Kildare · 1798

    The Cork and King's County Militia at Ballitore were replaced by sworn Orangemen from Tyrone and the Ancient Britons, who took free quarters and plundered shops and houses. Colonel Colin Campbell eventually had to issue protections, though robbery of provisions continued at a time of scarcity.

    Read the passage

    The Cork and King’s County Militia first quartered there were, to the sorrow of the inhabitants, replaced by men from Tyrone, all sworn Orangemen, and by the Ancient Britons. These were given free quarters, and foraging parties searched shops and private houses. The outrages on loyal and patriotic people by the Government forces became so exasperating that at last Colonel Colin Campbell, afterwards Lord Clyde, was obliged to issue protections. But this did not check the incredible waste and robbery of provisions that went on, and that at a time of scarcity.

    When the actual rebellion broke out, the militia were withdrawn and concentrated with the troops at Athy and Naas ; and thus the peaceful inhabitants were for a time left to the mercy of the insurgents. These did not confine themselves to plunder, but murdered those who were obnoxious, besides pillaging and burning their houses. In spite of disorder and threats, the Quakers seem to have come off better than most. Mary Leadbeater’s brother’s house sheltered over a hundred persons who had taken refuge there ; and his daughter, Betsy Shackleton, still a child, exerted all her powers in attending to them. A soldier lay ill of a fever in a house in the garden. It would have been death to him if his asylum were known, so the child herself attended to all his wants secretly. To Shackleton’s house the insurgents brought their prisoners, as well as their own wounded and suffering comrades. “ It was/’ we are told, “ an awful sight to behold in that large parlour such a mingled assembly of anxious, throbbing hearts — the Shackletons themselves, the wives of the loyal officers, the wives of the soldiers, the wives and daughters of the insurgents, the numerous guests, the prisoners — all dreading to see the door open, lest some new distress, some fresh announcement of horrors, should enter. But every scene was now fearful, and they knew not what a day might bring forth.” All these houses were thronged with people seeking refreshment and repose, and threatening to take possession for the purpose of firing upon the soldiery when they should come.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 268

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming up on Ballitore in Kildare. In 1798 this Quaker village suffered under its own side's soldiers. The Cork and King's County Militia first stationed here were replaced by men from Tyrone, all sworn Orangemen, and by the Ancient Britons, who were given free quarters and sent foraging parties through shops and private houses. The outrages against loyal and patriotic people became so exasperating that Colonel Colin Campbell was obliged to issue protections. Even so, incredible waste and robbery of provisions went on, at a time of scarcity. When the actual rebellion broke out the militia were withdrawn and concentrated with the troops at Athy and Naas, leaving the peaceful inhabitants to the mercy of the insurgents. These did not confine themselves to plunder but murdered those who were obnoxious, and pillaged and burned their houses. The Quakers seem to have come off better than most. Mary Leadbeater's brother's house sheltered over 100 people who had taken refuge there, and his daughter Betsy Shackleton, still a child, looked after their needs. She secretly tended a soldier lying ill with fever in a house in the garden, for it would have been death to him if his asylum were known. The insurgents brought their prisoners and their own wounded to Shackleton's house, and it was, in the words of the source, an awful sight to behold in that large parlour such a mingled assembly of anxious, throbbing hearts.

47. O'Tooles slay nephew and servants of Archbishop at Tallaght gates

    near Tallaght · town · Dublin · 1578

    In 1578 the O'Tooles made an incursion into Tallaght and slew a nephew and some servants of Archbishop Loftus at the gates of the palace there, part of ongoing conflict between the Archbishop and the O'Tooles who oppressed his tenants.

    Read the passage

    Notwithstanding its close proximity to Dublin, Clondalkin long continued exposed to the depredations of the Irish, who descended from the Dublin mountains to ravage and plunder. It gives us a strange picture of the state of Ireland when we read that in 1826 part of the manor of Clondalkin was returned as “ waste, being among the Irishry.” Two hundred years later, Archbishop Brown, writing from his country house at Tallaght, close by, complained of the Tooles as his mortal enemies, daily oppressing his “ poor tenants.” And in 1578 they made an incursion into Tallaght, and slew a nephew and

    ClT.nNmAT ¥TO P,T=TTTT?r'l

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 6

48. The Double Return Battle at Baltinglass Corporation

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow

    The Earl of Aldborough brought his sister, Lady Hannah Stratford, to the Corporation of Baltinglass as returning officer, leading to a double return contested by the brothers, resulting in a physical brawl among the ladies present that caused a great uproar in Dublin.

    Read the passage

    The borough of Baltinglass returned two members to the Irish Parliament till the Union, when it was disfranchised, and a sum of £15,000 awarded as compensation to the trustees of the Earl of Aldborough. The sovereign was the returning officer. An amusing incident is quoted in Barrington’s “Personal Sketches of his Own Times,” which I shall summarize. Robert, Earl of Aldborough, and his brothers, Benjamin and John, were ever at variance. The borough was in the patronage of the Stratford family. His lordship determined to make a new burgomaster or returning officer that he could depend upon, and brought his sister, Lady Hannah Stratford, down to the Corporation, and recommended her as a fit and proper returning officer for the borough of Baltinglass. Many approved of her ladyship for a change ; a double return ensued — a man acting for the brothers, and a lady for the lord. This created a great battle. The honourable ladies all got into the thick of it. Some of them were well trounced ; others gave as good as they received. The affair made a great uproar in Dublin, and informations were moved for and obtained against some of the ladies. The brothers, however, kept the borough, and his lordship never afterwards could retrieve his loss. In 1797 he once went in great state to visit the commanding officer of a regiment of cavalry that arrived in that part of the country. He told the officer that he came from his castle at Belan, which was one of the finest residences in the country, to offer him his countenance and protection. The major, who was a rough diamond of a Scot, repeated several times, “Your countenance and protection!” “ As for your ‘protection,’ mister, my lord, Major M‘Pherson is always able to protect himself ; and as for your ‘ countenance,’

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 218

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Baltinglass, this was a borough that returned two members to the Irish Parliament until the Union, when it was disfranchised and £15,000 in compensation went to the trustees of the Earl of Aldborough. The sovereign served as returning officer, and the borough stood in the patronage of the Stratford family. Robert, Earl of Aldborough, and his brothers Benjamin and John were always at odds. His lordship wanted a returning officer he could depend on, so he brought his sister, Lady Hannah Stratford, down to the Corporation and put her forward as a fit and proper person for the role. Many approved of her for a change, and a double return followed: a man acting for the brothers, a lady for the lord. That touched off a great battle. The honourable ladies all got into the thick of it. Some were well trounced; others gave as good as they received. The affair caused a great uproar in Dublin, and informations were moved for and obtained against some of the ladies. The brothers kept the borough, and the Earl never afterwards could retrieve his loss. In 1797 he went in great state to visit the commanding officer of a cavalry regiment that had arrived in the area. He said he had come from his castle at Belan, one of the finest residences in the country, to offer his countenance and protection. The major, a rough Scot, kept repeating, "Your countenance and protection!" He said that as for protection, Major McPherson was always able to protect himself, and as for the Earl's countenance, the words trail off there.

49. Athlone Castle Blown Up, Henry Dodwell Survives, Wife Killed

    Athlone · town · Westmeath

    Henry Dodwell, the author's father-in-law, was Governor of Athlone during 'the late troubles' and was residing in the castle when it was blown up. He survived by lying for hours in a hollow space made by a fallen beam, but his first wife Lettice was killed in the explosion, as was his eldest son Henry.

    Read the passage

    3 daughters and his granddaughter Mary Digby each had very near £450 p. an. that was near £1800 p. an. besides an estate of £700. p. an — which he left to a relatin of his one Dodwell in ye county of Sligoe where the £700 per an. lyes. He had a vast number of lawsuits in his time and was deffendant in every one but one, and never lost but two suits in his life, he was Governor of Athlone in the time of ye late troubles, and resided in ye casble when it was Blown up and he lay by Gods provedence in a hollow place wh was made so by a beam which chanced to Fall over it, he lay there for some hours till he was dug out, his first wife Lettice was killed in it, as was his eldest son Henery . . .

    He was of a very good familly but his three uncles and his Father having but two sons, that is ye learned Doctor Dodwell and himself, made his relations not Numerous, his Nearest relations was St. George Ash Bishop of Derry, he was his cousin germain by his Mothers side, and the St. Georges of Athlone that is Col. Bichard St. George, Arthur St. George D.D., and Capt. George St. George of the County Killkenny who were second cusins to my Wife. Judge Coot was a relation of his but how near I dont know, he had one sister whom I forgot before to mention, she was marryed to one Capt. Wentworth and had by him 3 daughters whom I dont know. Katherine his wife as before sd was youngest daughter of Arthur Ormsby of Bally van oge in ye County of Limerick who was uncle to Gilbert Ormsby of Tubervaddy in the County of Gallway Esq. for he was a younger son of Tubervaddy House, and he had a very great estate now 1737 said to be £200. p. an. he had 4 sons and

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 169

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Athlone, this is the town where Henry Dodwell was governor during the late troubles. He was residing in the castle when it was blown up. By God's providence he lay in a hollow place made by a beam which chanced to fall over it, and he lay there for some hours until he was dug out. His first wife Lettice was killed in it, and so was his eldest son Henry. Henry Dodwell was of a very good family, though his relations were not numerous. His nearest relation was St. George Ash, Bishop of Derry, his cousin german by his mother's side. Then there were the St. Georges of Athlone: Colonel Richard St. George, Arthur St. George, Doctor of Divinity, and Captain George St. George of County Kilkenny, who were second cousins to the author's wife. Judge Coot was a relation, though how near is not known. He had one sister, married to a Captain Wentworth, by whom she had three daughters. He had a vast number of lawsuits in his time. He was defendant in every one but one, and never lost but two suits in his life. He left an estate of 700 pounds per annum to a relation, one Dodwell, in County Sligo. Three daughters and his granddaughter Mary Digby each had very near 450 pounds per annum. His wife Katherine was the youngest daughter of Arthur Ormsby of Ballyvanoge in County Limerick, who was uncle to Gilbert Ormsby of Tubervaddy in County Galway.

50. Cahir roe O'Connor submits at Rathangan Castle

    Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1539

    After being besieged in his moated stronghold and fleeing in his shirt by boat, Cahir roe O'Connor came under safe conduct to the King's Castle of Rathangan and from there was taken to Dublin to make his humble submission.

    Read the passage

    Elv, the O’Carroll district. The Lord Deputy then gave up the pursuit and returned to Offaly, where at Killeigh and Geashill he destroyed a vast amount of gathered-in corn. It was on this occasion that he looted Killeigh Abbey, out of which he “ broght a payer of orgons, and other necessarie thinges for the Kynges College of Maynotli, and as muche glas as glasid a part of the windous of the chyrche of the seid collage, and much dell of the windous of His Graces Castell of Maynoth.”1 In spite of this “ hosting,” Brian O’Connor remained unrepentant, and not only that, but his brother Cahir “ roe,” formerly hostile to him, now joined him, and deserted his patron the Lord Deputy. Eventually, some months later, Brian O’Connor submitted and received a pardon on condition that he should assist in bringing his rebellious brother Cahir to submission. On St. Patrick’s Day, 1539, Lord Leonard Grey wrote from Dublin that “ Brian and my servant Stephen Apparye (Ap Parry) hunted the sayd Kayr, and had suche esspyall upon hym, where he was yn a strong house, envyroned abowte with water, maryses, and gret depe dyclies, with strong hedges upon the topp of theim, and theyr had hagbushes (arquebusses) and handgonnes. Howbeit he was soo harde beset abowte, that he was dryven to rune away in liys shert, and toke a boote (boat) and fledd into Odempsyes countre ; yn soo muche that he scapyd narrowlye with lyeff. And after they spoyled the sayd house, and toke such horsy s and catell as they founde, and brake doune his dvches, and made smotlr worke. And upon the morowe he cam, apon savecouducte, unto my sayd servant into the Kynges Castell of Rathangan, and with hym from thens to the citie of Dublyn, where he made liys humble submission.”2

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun

51. Danish fort at Clondalkin destroyed with slaughter

    near Clondalkin · town · Dublin

    The Danish fort at Clondalkin was attacked and destroyed by the Irish, who reportedly strewed the plain with the heads of 100 Danish warriors. Aulaff avenged this with a terrible slaughter of the Irish.

    Read the passage

    remains of a castle may possibly occupy the site of the olcl Danish fort. This fort was attacked and destroyed by the Irish, who are said to have strewn the plain with the heads of 100 Danish warriors. Aulaff avenged this by a terrible slaughter of the Irish.

    Ancient Geanite Ceoss in Clondalkin Chuechyaed. [From a Photograph by Mason, Dublin.]

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 6

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Clondalkin, you are near the site of an old Danish fort. The Irish attacked and destroyed it, and are said to have strewn the plain with the heads of 100 Danish warriors. Aulaff later avenged that with a terrible slaughter of the Irish.

52. Dervorgilla's death as a nun at Mellifont, 1193

    near Mellifont Abbey · monument · Louth · 1193

    The 'guilty' Dervorgilla eventually became a nun at Mellifont Abbey, County Louth, and died there in 1193 aged eighty-five; her husband Tiernan O'Rourke had earlier been treacherously slain by Hugh de Lacy.

    Read the passage

    The guilty Dervorgilla eventually became a nun in Mellifont Abbey, County Louth, and died there in the year 1193, in the eighty-fifth year of her age; her husband, Tiernan O’Kourke, had been treacherously slain by Hugh de Lacy, twenty-one years previously.

    The end of Dermot MacMurrough, at the age of eighty-one, was a fearful one; it is thus described in “The Annals of the Four Masters ” under the year 1171 : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 245

53. Elaborate funeral procession and burial at Stradbally's St Patrick's church

    Stradbally · town · Laois · 1729

    Pole Cosby's father was buried with great pomp at St Patrick's church in Stradbally, with the house hung in black, scutcheons displayed, a hearse with six horses, and 100 poor people served bread and ale at the door.

    Read the passage

    He dyed a Saturday night, and early a Whitsunday morning ye sad News was brought to me, ye first thing I did was to send off a letter to Hawkins King of Arms in Dublin to provide Escutchons and Hangings and all things necessary for ye funerall for he was to be buryed a Wedensday, and I got Capt. Mitchel to go with me in my Berlin to Busliertown where I arrived a Monday morning by 6 of the clock, agreed there with one Evans of Bossgray to get coffin, lierse & other things and have the corpe at Stradbally a Tuesday night & after giveing Coz. Minchin and his lady many thanks for their most exceedinggreat love and kindness and great love and vast tenderness of my father in his sickness and my Mother and sister all the while, my Mother, sister and I set out in ye Berlin, Capt. Mitchel in the chair that my Father and Mother went in, and we got that night to Esker, a malancholy journey it was between us three as ever was, a Wedensday my Father was buryed with very great pomp (as any y* ever was in ye Queens County) in

    . N 2

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 127

54. Fenian Rising Casualty at Tallaght, 1867

    near Tallaght · town · Dublin · 1867

    During the Fenian rising of 4th March 1867, a man named Stephen O'Donoghue from Dublin was mortally wounded outside the police barracks at Tallaght and attended on the spot by a Dominican priest, Father Scanlan. His grave in Glasnevin is annually decorated by Dublin Nationalists.

    Read the passage

    3. Page 35. — It is there stated that no one was killed during the Fenian rising on the 4th March, 1867. As a matter of fact, a poor fellow named Stephen O’Donogliue, from Dublin, was mortally wounded outside the police barracks. He was attended on the spot by one of our priests, Father Scanlan, since dead. O’Donoghue’s grave in Glasnevin is one of those annually decorated by Dublin Nationalists.

    NOTES.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 77

55. Feudal service obligations of Rathangan tenants for defending the castle

    Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1540

    Tenants of Rathangan village held land free in return for supplying victuals to horsemen, galloglass and kerns quartered on them for defence, and owed labour services including ploughing, weeding, reaping and drawing turf to the Castle.

    Read the passage

    260 acres of pasture, three acres of underwood and a certain common of pasture and turbary, which they hold free on account of supplying victuals, etc., to certain horsemen and footmen, known in the English tongue as Horsemen, Galloglass, and Kerns, which at times are quartered on them for the defence of the country, by orders of the Deputy of the land of Ireland. These tenants are also bound to give their services free yearly, viz. : — two days for ploughing the land at wheat-sowing time, and at oat-sowing time, one day for weeding the crops, two days for reaping the same, two days for drawing the same to the haggard, and two days for drawing turf to the Castle.

    “There are also 10 Cottages, at 2s. per annum, whose occupiers, as well as those of the messuages, each pay the customary Christmas hen, called in English ‘a watch-henne,’ valued at lid. apiece.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 111

56. John Clinch arrested at Rathcoole House, 1798

    Rathcoole · town · Dublin · 1798

    In 1798 John Clinch, a young man about twenty, was arrested as a rebel in a back room of Rathcoole House, taken to Dublin, tried, and executed outside Newgate.

    Read the passage

    living with his father, was arrested as a rebel in a hack room of Rathcoole House, taken to Dublin, tried, and executed outside Newgate.

    Madden, in his “ Lives of the United Irishmen,” in a list of Major Sirr’s informers, mentions : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Rathcoole, in 1798 a young man about twenty named John Clinch was arrested as a rebel in a back room of Rathcoole House. He was taken to Dublin, tried, and executed outside Newgate.

57. Legend of the Bed of Dermot and Grania at Cromlechs

    Kernanstown · townland · Carlow

    The peasantry in Irish-speaking parts call cromlechs 'Labba Diarmaid agus Grainne', the bed of Dermot and Grania, from the legend that the fleeing Dermot O'Dyna erected a cromlech each night for shelter while eluding the pursuing Finn mac Coole.

    Read the passage

    call them Druids’ Altars, and in the Irish- speaking parts Labba, or in full, Labba Diarmaid agus Grainne, i.e., “ the bed of Dermot and Grania,” from the well-known legend of the elopement of Dermot O’Dyna with Grania, the espoused wife of Finn mac Coole, the famous leader of the Feena Erin, or Fenians, in the second century of the Christian Era. When fleeing from the vengeance of the pursuing Finn mac Coole, Dermot O’Dyna is said to have erected a cromlech to afford themselves shelter at the place they stopped at each night to rest.

    According to William C. Borlase,1 the greatest living authority on the cromlechs of Ireland, the covering stone of the Kernanstown cromlech is not only the largest in Ireland, but the largest in Europe. It has been calculated to weigh 100 tons. The length of this huge granite boulder is 28| feet, in breadth 22 feet, in girth 65 feet, and in thickness from 4 to 6 feet.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 223

58. Lord Edward FitzGerald elected MP for Athy borough

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1788–1790

    Lord Edward FitzGerald returned home from military service in 1788 and was made Member of Parliament for the Borough of Athy, before being elected MP for County Kildare in 1790.

    Read the passage

    Lord Edward, who was the fifth son of the 1st Duke of Leinster, was born in London on the 15th of October, 1768. When seventeen years of age, he was gazetted to a Lieutenancy in the 26tli Regiment of Foot, from which he exchanged to the 19th Regiment in 1781. During his military career he saw active service in America. In 1788 he returned home, and was made M.P. for the Borough of Athy ; and in 1790 he was elected M.P. for the County Kildare. In 1791 Lord Edward was cashiered from the army on account of his outspoken revolutionary opinions ; and on the 27th of December in the following year he married the beautiful Pamela, who is supposed to have been an illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Orleans.

    In 1796 Lord Edward became a United Irishman, and joined heart and soul in the movement for the relief of his cruelly oppressed Catholic fellow-countrymen ; and if his life had been spared, he would have been, owing to his military knowledge, the chief leader of the rebellion of 1798, which had been fixed to break out on the 23rd of May. However, on the 19th of May the Government reward of £1,000 for Lord Edward’s betrayal was earned by two informers, Francis Higgins, alias “the Sham Squire,” and a barrister named Francis Magan. The wounds received by Lord Edward at the time of his capture proved fatal ; and after lingering for seventeen days he died in jail on the 4th of June. The coffin containing his body was placed in a vault under the east

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 296

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Athy, this is the borough that sent Lord Edward FitzGerald to Parliament in 1788. He was the fifth son of the first Duke of Leinster, born in London on the 15th of October, 1768. At seventeen he was gazetted a lieutenant in the 26th Regiment of Foot, then exchanged to the 19th Regiment in 1781. He saw active service in America during his military career. When he returned home in 1788, he was made Member of Parliament for the Borough of Athy. Two years later, in 1790, he was elected MP for County Kildare. In 1791 he was cashiered from the army for his outspoken revolutionary opinions. On the 27th of December the following year he married Pamela, said to be an illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Orleans. By 1796 he had become a United Irishman, joining the movement for the relief of his cruelly oppressed Catholic fellow-countrymen. Had his life been spared, his military knowledge would have made him chief leader of the rebellion of 1798, fixed to break out on the 23rd of May. But on the 19th of May, two informers earned the government reward of 1,000 pounds for his betrayal: Francis Higgins, called the Sham Squire, and a barrister named Francis Magan. The wounds he received at the time of his capture proved fatal. After lingering seventeen days he died in jail on the 4th of June.

59. Monks of Tallaght prevent the Fair of Tailtin in 811

    near Tallaght · town · Dublin · 811

    In 811, the monks of Tallaght prevented the great annual Fair of Tailtin from being held after their sanctuary was violated, halting the assembly presided over by the Monarch of Ireland himself; the king later compensated them with gifts.

    Read the passage

    “ The age of Christ 806 [recte 811]. The prevention of the celebration of the Fair of Tailtin, so that neither horse nor chariot was run by Aedh Oirdnidhe, son of Niall2 ; i.e., the family of Tamhlacht prevented it in consequence of the violation of the Termon (or church lands) of Tamhlacht-Maelruain. Aedh Oirdnidhe afterwards gave their full demand to the family of Tamhlacht, together with many gifts.”

    From this period to the coming of the Anglo-Normans at the end of the twelfth century, nothing remarkable in the history of Tallaght is recorded.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 14

60. O'Tooles raid Tallaght and kill Richard White in 1331

    near Tallaght · town · Dublin · 1331

    On 21 April 1331 the O'Tooles attacked Tallaght, drove off the Archbishop's sheep, and killed Richard White and other men; a pursuing force under Lord William Bermingham later retaliated against the Irish raiders.

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    “On St. Mark Evangelist’s Even, the O’Toles came to Talogh, and preyed Alexander (de Bicknor) Archbishop of Dublinge of three hundred sheep, and killed Richard Whit and other honest men of that County, whereof came news to Dublinge ; and Sir William Bert (or Bryt), knight, and Sir Morich FitzGerald, knight of the order of St. John’s,4 Hamond

    ^’Alton’s “History of the County Dublin, p. 763.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 15