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

Discovery of Cinerary Urn at Gurteen near Castledermot

Gurteen · street · Galway · 1891–1893

A sepulchral urn was discovered about twelve to fourteen years before 1905 on a farm at Gurteen near Castledermot, when a farmer named Nolan broke open a large flat stone covering a burial chamber, finding one urn destroyed by a neighbour searching for gold and another preserved containing burned bones and ashes.

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Mr. Nolan described the finding as follows : — One day when ploughing he struck a large flat stone, and determined that he would have the stone broken up. At a later date, with the assistance of a neighbour, wedges were inserted, and, when the first portion of the stone was taken away, a cavity or stone chamber was found underneath. In this portion or end of the cavity an urn was discovered. The neighbour at once drove his spade into the urn, asserting they had found the gold at last. This urn was completely destroyed. I was unable to obtain even a fragment. The urn whose picture I send herewith was at the other end of the cavity, and was preserved. For some time after being found it remained perfect, but later got
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Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 77

As the companion tells it

Gurteen is where a burial urn came to light on a farm, twelve to fourteen years before 1905. A farmer named Nolan was ploughing one day when he struck a large flat stone and decided he would have it broken up. Later, with a neighbour, wedges were inserted. When the first portion of the stone was taken away, a cavity or stone chamber was found underneath. An urn was discovered in one end of the cavity. The neighbour drove his spade into the urn at once, asserting they had found the gold at last. This urn was completely destroyed. Not even a fragment survived. A second urn lay at the other end of the cavity and was preserved. It contained burned bones and ashes. For some time it remained perfect.

D'Israell's Charitable Bequest for Bough School near Rathvilly

Bough · townland · Carlow · 1814

Ben D'Israell of Beechy Park, near Rathvilly, left £1,000 in his 1814 will to build a free school near Rathvilly along with funds for its upkeep; the school was eventually built at Bough and became known as D'Israeli's School or Bough School.

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Near to Rathvilly lies Beechy Park, formerly the property of Mr. Ben. D’Israell. His signature occurs once in the book which records the vestry meetings in Kiltegan. The minutes of the meetings appear to have been signed by all present, even by one illiterate, who used to make his mark. Miy D’Israell wrote his name with a long letter s, and with two l’s at the end, though now it is spelt as Lord Beaconsfield spelt it. By his will, dated and proved in 1814, Mr. D’lsraell left 501,000 to build a house, as near as might be to Rathvilly, to be used for the purpose of a free school, and for the accommodation of the schoolmaster, and a further sum of £2,000 to be invested in the public funds, and the interest devoted to paying the rent of the lands on which the schools should be built, the salary of the master, and other necessary expenses. This school was to be under the control of the Bishop of Leighlin and Ferns, and the minister and churchwardens of the parish of Rathvilly. After a few years land was bought at Bough, adjoining Rathvilly, and the schoolhouse and residence built ; and the school, which has been maintained ever since, was established. The fund which represents the money left by the testator, with accumulations, now amounts to the sum of £3,872 12s. 6d., and is invested in Government Stocks, the interest being devoted to the carrying on of the school. The school is known as “ DTsraeli’s School,” but it is often called “ Bough School.” Other money was bequeathed to allow small sums to be given annually to the poor of Rathvilly. The Rev. J. O’Callaghan, the Rector of Rathvilly, told me he thought Mr. D’lsraell was uncle to Lord Beaconsfield ; and I looked up the will at the Record Office in Dublin, but could find no one mentioned of his own name, and there seemed no reason to think that any of those who benefited by his will were in any way related. He left : —
To Wm. Hoare Hume, of Humewood To Mrs. Charlotte Hume, wife of above To Isabella Hume, daughter ,,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 213

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Bough, a school once stood that owed its existence to a man named Ben D'Israell. He lived at Beechy Park, near Rathvilly, and his will, dated and proved in 1814, laid out careful plans for a free school. He left 1,000 pounds to build a house as near as might be to Rathvilly, to be used for the purpose of a free school, and for the accommodation of the schoolmaster. He left a further 2,000 pounds to be invested in the public funds, the interest to pay the rent of the lands on which the school should be built, the salary of the master, and other necessary expenses. The school was to be under the control of the Bishop of Leighlin and Ferns, and the minister and churchwardens of the parish of Rathvilly. After a few years land was bought at Bough, adjoining Rathvilly, and the schoolhouse and residence built. The school was established and maintained ever since. The fund, with accumulations, later amounted to 3,872 pounds, 12 shillings and 6 pence, invested in Government Stocks. The school is known as D'Israeli's School, but it is often called Bough School. Other money was bequeathed to allow small sums to be given annually to the poor of Rathvilly. The Reverend J. O'Callaghan, the Rector of Rathvilly, thought Mr. D'Israell was uncle to Lord Beaconsfield. But the will at the Record Office in Dublin named no one of his own name, and there seemed no reason to think any of those who benefited were related. He left bequests to William Hoare Hume of Humewood, to Mrs. Charlotte Hume his wife, and to Isabella Hume their daughter.

Earl of Aldborough's Visit to Cavalry Officer at Belan

Belan · townland · Kildare · 1797

In 1797 the Earl of Aldborough visited a cavalry commanding officer, claiming to come from his castle at Belan, one of the finest residences in the country, only to be rebuffed by the Scottish major.

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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

Somewhere close to Belan, the Earl of Aldborough had a castle he called one of the finest residences in the country. In 1797, a regiment of cavalry arrived in the area, and the earl went in great state to visit its commanding officer. He told the officer he had come from his castle to offer him his countenance and protection. The major, a rough diamond of a Scot, repeated the words several times: "Your countenance and protection." Then he answered. "As for your 'protection,' mister, my lord, Major M'Pherson is always able to protect himself; and as for your 'countenance,'" — and there the record leaves off, but the dismissal was clear. The earl was a man who had already lost ground. The borough of Baltinglass had returned two members to the Irish Parliament, and it lay in the patronage of the Stratford family. The earl, Robert, and his brothers Benjamin and John were ever at variance. His lordship determined to make a new returning officer he could depend on, and brought his sister, Lady Hannah Stratford, down to the Corporation, recommending her as a fit and proper returning officer for the borough. 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 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 kept the borough, and the earl never afterwards could retrieve his loss. The earl who offered protection to a major was the same man who had just lost his own borough to his brothers.

Henry VIII grants Stradbally and Abbeyleix abbeys to Rory caech

Abbeyleix · town · Laois · 1183–1547

After the Reformation, Rory 'caech' (the one-eyed), son of Connell O'More, chief of his name, was granted by Henry VIII the sites and precincts of the abbeys of Stradbally and Abbeyleix. Abbeyleix had been founded for the Cistercian Order by Cucogry O'More in 1183.

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After the Reformation Rory “ caech ” (the one-eyed), son of Connell, son of Melaghlin O’More, chief of his name, was granted by Henry VIII the sites and precincts of the Abbeys or Monasteries of Stradbally and Abbeyleix (founded for the Cistercian Order by Cucogry O’More in 1183).
Rory “ caech ” was slain by his brother, GillaPatrick, at “ Killnesperokye,” in Leix, about 1545, and the latter assumed the chieftainship of the clan. About 1549 GillaPatrick O’More was outlawed for rebellion, and his estates became forfeited to the Crown.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 199

As the companion tells it

The town of Abbeyleix grew around a Cistercian abbey founded by Cucogry O'More in 1183. After the Reformation, Henry VIII granted the sites and precincts of the abbeys of Stradbally and Abbeyleix to Rory caech, the one-eyed, son of Connell, son of Melaghlin O'More, chief of his name. Rory was slain by his brother GillaPatrick at Killnesperokye in Leix about 1545. GillaPatrick took the chieftainship, but around 1549 he was outlawed for rebellion, and his estates were forfeited to the Crown.

Irish inhabitants of Clondalkin and English law privilege

near Clondalkin · town · Dublin

In a lawsuit, an Irish inhabitant of Clondalkin pleaded he belonged to one of the five privileged Irish families entitled to English law and to be accounted freemen, reflecting the precarious legal status of Irish residents in the town.

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The position of the Irish inhabitants of such a town seems to have been not very enviable. They are always distinguished from the English, and I think must often have been suspected of taking part with the hostile Irish. At one time there is mention of a lawsuit in which an Irish inhabitant of Clondalkin pleaded in his defence that he belonged to one of the five Irish families which were privileged and entitled to English law, and to be accounted freemen. (These were — the O’Neils of Ulster, the O’Melaghlins of Meath, the O’Connors of Connaught, the O’Briens of Thomond, and the MacMurroughs of Leinster.)
Ancient Granite Cross in Clondalkin Churchyard. [From a Photograph by Mason, Dublin.]

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 7

As the companion tells it

Coming up near Clondalkin, a town in Dublin with a precarious history for its Irish inhabitants. They were always distinguished from the English and often suspected of siding with the hostile Irish. In one lawsuit, an Irish inhabitant of Clondalkin defended himself by pleading he belonged to one of five privileged Irish families entitled to English law and to be accounted freemen — the O'Neils of Ulster, the O'Melaghlins of Meath, the O'Connors of Connaught, the O'Briens of Thomond, and the MacMurroughs of Leinster.

Landscape improvements at Stradbally demesne

Stradbally · town · Laois · 1724–1729

Pole Cosby describes planting evergreens, making walls, canals, and the Island of the Hermitage at Stradbally beginning in 1724, a novel style of improvement that attracted many visitors. He details work continuing through 1729 including groves, firs, elms and a bowling alley.

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vast deal of evergreens and over trees & made it very pretty and tho but a trivial sort of improvement there came vast numbers of People a great way to see it, it being a kind of improvement that was entirely new in this Country, it was in 1725 y* I made ye wall on ye S.E. side of the river and the canal facing diagonally ye Vault down to the Avenue Bridge, & made and planted the Island of the Hermitage, it was in 1728 y* I planted the Grove behind the Hermitage that is north W & in 1729 I planted the firs and elms from Mt Pleasant to that Grove & it was in 1784 y4 1 planted the Yew Circular seat at the end of the firs next to said Grove, When my father gave me y* spot to improve in Jan. 1724 the first thing I did was to turn ye road into ye land (which was on ye top of ye bank on the S.E. side of the Great hedge) to the N.W. side of the said hedge (that is ye paved road on the back of Mt. Pleasant) and then I made the Crab Quick hedge and the ditch, the first that I ever made In 1785 I made the Bowlin Alley & planted the yews there. King George the 1st dyed the 11th of June 1727 by which the Parliment was dissolved, my Father & I went soon after we heard it to Maryborough to the Proclaiming King George ye Second our present King. My father was Knight of the Shire for the Queens County long before he went to Spain and while he was abroad though he was not here to make interest still he was chose again and was chose allways after. When Queen Anne dyed the county agreed that my F : & Pilchard Warburton of Garryhinch Esq. son of my Great Uncle Warburton sho’d stand for the County, but one day a great many of the gentlemen of the County beeing met to talk of y* affair, Dick Warbn not careing for expense or trouble (& Ephraim Dawson being ambitious) told Ephraim that he sho’d stand for ye county if he might come in for Portarlington & so it was agreed, but it is affirmed y* Dawson firmly promised y* for ever a Warburton & a Sands sho’d for ever represent ye Burrough of Portarlington, thus it was Dawson got to be IG : of the Shire and by his cunning management having it allways in vew, he had by making freeholders & other ways & his Scotch insinuating way got a very great interest in this County though he was quite a new comer into this County and a mean very mean Upstart, for his father kept an ale house ye sign of the Cock in Belfast. But when the King died he wrote to my Father seeking him to joyn him in setting up for the Knights of the Shire. My father gave him no answer for some time though he himself was most Violently bent to join him yes ! often in a few days resolved on it, but my uncle Pole, Col. Robt. Pigot and others & Dick Warburton himself all set on my Father to quit Dawson & join Dick

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 120

As the companion tells it

Stradbally in Laois is a town the road passes through, and between 1724 and 1729 a man named Pole Cosby changed the land here in ways people had not seen before. When his father gave him the spot to improve in January 1724, the first thing he did was turn the road from the top of the bank on the south-east side of the Great hedge to the north-west side of that hedge, the paved road on the back of Mount Pleasant. He made the Crab Quick hedge and the ditch, the first he had ever made. He planted a vast deal of evergreens and other trees and made it very pretty. Though he called it a trivial sort of improvement, vast numbers of people came a great way to see it, because it was entirely new in this country. In 1725 he made the wall on the south-east side of the river and the canal facing diagonally the Vault down to the Avenue Bridge, and he made and planted the Island of the Hermitage. In 1728 he planted the Grove behind the Hermitage, to the north-west. In 1729 he planted the firs and elms from Mount Pleasant to that Grove. He also planted a Yew Circular seat at the end of the firs next to the Grove, and he made the Bowling Alley and planted the yews there. King George the First died on the 11th of June 1727, by which the Parliament was dissolved. His father and he went soon after to Maryborough for the proclaiming of King George the Second. His father was Knight of the Shire for the Queen's County, and was chosen again and always after.

O'Byrnes and O'Tooles invade Rathcoole and Tassagard

Rathcoole · town · Dublin · 1311

In 1311 the septs of the O'Birnes and O'Tooles invaded Tassagard and Rathcoole, striking terror into Dublin's citizens and laying ambushes in the woods of Glenmalure.

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“ a.d. 1311, the septs of the O’Birnes and O’Tooles invaded Tassagard and Rathcoole on the day next after the nativity of St. John (Pembridge), and were, we are told, powerful enough to strike terror into the citizens of Dublin by their numbers as well as their policies, in laying ambushes up and down the woods of Glendalory (Glenmalure), on the south side of the city.” During the next decade the district was devastated by the native tribes, who were roused to action by the Bruce invasion, and, emboldened by the success of its leader, rose against the English, and penetrated to the very gates of the metropolis. At this time it is probable that the Manor of Rathcoole was nearly entirely under grass, as it was impossible to farm it owing to the proximity of the Irish and the defenceless state of the town ; but, as the fourteenth century advanced, it became a place of considerable strength, and contained many fortified houses owing to its importance as a defence of the city, situated as it was on the frontier of the Pale.
In 1326 the Seneschal’s Court, markets, and water-mill are returned as sources of profit.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 43

As the companion tells it

Rathcoole, a town the road passes through, was the site of an invasion in 1311. On the day after the feast of the nativity of St. John, the septs of the O'Byrnes and the O'Tooles swept into Tassagard and Rathcoole. They were powerful enough, the record says, to strike terror into the citizens of Dublin, both by their numbers and by their policy of laying ambushes up and down the woods of Glenmalure, on the south side of the city. Over the next decade the district was devastated by the native tribes, roused to action by the Bruce invasion and emboldened by the success of its leader. They rose against the English and penetrated to the very gates of the metropolis. At that time the manor of Rathcoole was likely nearly all under grass, for it was impossible to farm owing to the proximity of the Irish and the defenceless state of the town. As the fourteenth century advanced, Rathcoole became a place of considerable strength, with many fortified houses, because of its importance as a defence of the city, standing on the frontier of the Pale. In 1326 the Seneschal's Court, markets, and water-mill are returned as sources of profit.

O'Ronan expelled from Clondalkin Abbey by armed clergy

near Clondalkin · town · Dublin · 1076

In 1076 an army was led by the clergy who forcibly expelled O'Ronan, who had usurped the abbey at Clondalkin. From that point there is no further record of the abbey, which was likely decayed by the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion.

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In 1076 an army was led by the clergy, and forcibly expelled O’Ronan, who had usurped the abbey. From that time on, I believe, there is no record of the abbey ; and it was probably quite decayed at the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion. The Danes had certainly taken possession of it, for in 1179 Pope Alexander confirmed Clondalkin to the See of Dublin ; and the old Dane and his wife, who then occupied land in the place, surrendered all their inheritance to the Church of St. Machotus.
When Archbishop Henry, of London, founded and endowed the Deanery of St. Patrick’s, he assigned the Church of Clondalkin for its support, and also a portion of bog called the Dean’s Rath (corrupted into Dane’s Rath).

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 5

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Clondalkin, a town with an old ecclesiastical story. In 1076 the clergy themselves led an army here to expel O'Ronan, who had usurped the abbey. After that, no further record of the abbey survives. The Danes had taken possession of it, and in 1179 Pope Alexander confirmed Clondalkin to the See of Dublin, when an old Dane and his wife surrendered all their inheritance to the Church of St. Machotus. Later, Archbishop Henry of London founded and endowed the Deanery of St. Patrick's and assigned the Church of Clondalkin for its support, along with a portion of bog called the Dean's Rath, later corrupted into Dane's Rath.

Patrick Hewetson, M.D. of Betaghstown, physician and College President

Betaghstown · townland · Kildare · 1699–1783

Patrick Hewetson of Betaghstown, born 1699, studied medicine at Leyden and Trinity College Dublin, became President of the King and Queen's College of Physicians in Ireland in 1745 and again in 1761, and died at Betaghstown in 1783.

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of Betaghstown, Clane, in the County of Kildare, Doctor in Physic, the eldest son of Moses Hewetson and his wife, Margery, was born in 1699. He entered Trinity College, Dublin, on the 6th April, 1716 (the same day as his brother William), at the age of seventeen years, having also been educated by Mr. Jackson, of Kildare ; took his B.A. in 1721, and on 16th August, 1726, was entered as a medical student in the famous University of Leyden, as “ Patricius Hewetson, Hibernus," where he pursued his studies till the year 1730 ; he proceeded M.B. at Trinity College, Dublin, in the summer of 1731, and M.D. summer of 1734. On the 21st March, 1736 (being already a Doctor in Physic in the “ Old College of Physicians, Ireland ”), he was elected a Fellow of the “ King and Queen's College of Physicians, Ireland." The Fellows alone constituted the corporation, and governed the College without the intervention of a board, council, committee, or senate. In 1745 he was elected President of the College. In the year 1750 he was appointed one of the four Fellows annually chosen to inspect the shops, warerooms, store-houses, and laboratories of apothecaries, chemists, and druggists in Dublin, and within ten miles thereof. He was again, in 1761, elected President of the “King and Queen’s College of Physicians,” and on the 18th October, 1770, was made an Honorary Fellow. He died at Betaghstown in 1783, unmarried, having made his will on the 23rd July, 1770, and appointed Dr. Bichard Kobinson, then Primate of All Ireland and Archbishop
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Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 30

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Betaghstown, a physician named Patrick Hewetson lived and died. He was born in 1699, the eldest son of Moses Hewetson and his wife Margery. He was educated by a Mr. Jackson of Kildare, and entered Trinity College Dublin on the 6th of April 1716, the same day as his brother William, at the age of seventeen. He took his B.A. in 1721. On the 16th of August 1726, he was entered as a medical student at the University of Leyden, listed as "Patricius Hewetson, Hibernus," and pursued his studies there until 1730. He proceeded M.B. at Trinity College Dublin in the summer of 1731 and M.D. in the summer of 1734. By the 21st of March 1736, already a Doctor in Physic in the Old College of Physicians, Ireland, he was elected a Fellow of the King and Queen's College of Physicians. The Fellows alone constituted the corporation and governed the College without a board, council, committee, or senate. In 1745 he was elected President of the College. In 1750 he was appointed one of the four Fellows annually chosen to inspect the shops, warerooms, store-houses, and laboratories of apothecaries, chemists, and druggists in Dublin and within ten miles thereof. He was again elected President in 1761. On the 18th of October 1770 he was made an Honorary Fellow. He died at Betaghstown in 1783, unmarried, having made his will on the 23rd of July 1770.

Quaker settlers transform Ballitore into a garden village

Ballitore · town · Kildare · 1680–1726

In the late seventeenth century two Quakers, Barcroft and Strettel, purchased the marshy land at Ballitore and transformed it with plantations of forest trees, orchards and quickset hedges. Abraham Shackleton, a Yorkshire Quaker, was drawn to settle there in 1726 because of this Quaker colony.

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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

Ballitore was marshy land until the end of the seventeenth century, when two Quakers named Barcroft and Strettel purchased it. They planted forest trees and orchards, and put quickset hedges round the fields. Their taste and industry turned the neighbourhood into a scene of rural beauty. It was this Quaker colony that drew Abraham Shackleton, a Yorkshire Quaker, to settle there in 1726. That same year he opened a boarding school where the classics were taught with great success. The school was not only for Quakers; only 10 out of 60 boarders were of the sect. For nearly a hundred years Ballitore was like an oasis in a wilderness, a centre of educational and philanthropic light. In 1741, Garrett, Edmund, and Richard Burke became pupils. Three years later, Edmund Burke entered Trinity College Dublin from this school. He 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. The school founded by the first Shackleton was carried on by his son and grandson for 73 years. It closed in 1803 because the grandson had scruples about reading and teaching classical authors. It re-opened in 1807 and was maintained for many years.

Rathangan burned by Irish forces in 1300

Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1300

In 1300, while John fitz Thomas FitzGerald, Baron of Offaly, was serving the King in Flanders, his town of Rathangan was burned by Irish malefactors who also committed homicides and depredations in the neighbourhood. He petitioned the Crown for help rebuilding his castle there.

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In 1300 John fitz Thomas, Baron of Offaly, when in the service of the King in Flanders, had his town of Rathymegan burned by Irish malefactors, who also committed homicides and depredations in the neighbourhood. He therefore petitioned the Crown for assistance in rebuilding his castle there. The King referred the matter to the Justiciar and Council, ordering that if it would be for the better preservation of the peace of the country in those parts, the castle should be re-erected at the charge of the Crown.2
In 1801 a grant in fee was sanctioned to John fitz Thomas FitzGerald of free warren in his “ demesne lands of Maynoth, Rathynnegan, Leye (Lea), Gesliill, Moyrayghhyd (Morett), Corbaly ( ), Coiltagh ( ), and Rathmor,” which are

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 89

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in 1300, John fitz Thomas, Baron of Offaly, was away serving the King in Flanders. While he was gone, Irish malefactors burned his town of Rathangan. They also committed homicides and depredations in the neighbourhood. He petitioned the Crown for assistance in rebuilding his castle there. The King referred the matter to the Justiciar and Council, ordering that if it would be for the better preservation of the peace of the country in those parts, the castle should be re-erected at the charge of the Crown.

Rathangan Castle accused as resort of rebels in 1575 treason case

Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1575

The Earl of Kildare was charged with treason in 1575, one allegation being that he allowed Rathangan Castle to be the resort of rebels such as Kedagh mac Cormack O'Connor and Sir Nicholas Eustace, and that he permitted pillaging of Pale residents.

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The allegations were numerous. Among others, that the Earl allowed the Castle of Rathangan to be the resort of such well-known rebels as Kedagh mac Cormack O’Connor ; Sir Nicholas Eustace, Priest ; and “ one Compton, a learned man, who taught his son.” Also that the Earl was in league with the O’Connors, O’Mores, and Keatings, then in revolt, and allowed them to pillage the residents of the Pale — such as Aylmer, of Cloncurry ; Gerald Sutton, of Richardstown, near Rathcoffey ; Daniell, of Castledermot ; John Wesley (or Wellesley), of Bishop’s Court ; Nicholas Harbert, of Monasteroris ; William FitzGerald, of Ardree, near Athy ; Bartholomew Long, of Daars; Walter Stanihurst, whose elder brother Richard was tutor to the Earl’s sons ; and others.
Redmond Oge FitzGerald’s Tomb- Slab at Kildare Cathedral. [From a Rubbing by W. FitzG-., 1905.]

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 102

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stands what was once Rathangan Castle. In 1575, the Earl of Kildare faced treason charges, and among the allegations was that he allowed this castle to become a resort for rebels. The Crown named Kedagh mac Cormack O'Connor, Sir Nicholas Eustace, a priest, and what the record calls "one Compton, a learned man, who taught his son." The Earl was further accused of being in league with the O'Connors, the O'Mores, and the Keatings, all then in revolt, and of letting them pillage the residents of the Pale. The listed victims read like a roll call of the settled gentry: Aylmer of Cloncurry, Gerald Sutton of Richardstown, Daniell of Castledermot, John Wesley of Bishop's Court, Nicholas Harbert of Monasteroris, William FitzGerald of Ardree, Bartholomew Long of Daars, and Walter Stanihurst, whose elder brother Richard had been tutor to the Earl's own sons.

Rebellion of 1641 Devastates Old Bawn and Dunlavin

near Old Bawn · minor feature · Wexford · 1641

Old Bawn House, newly built when the rebellion of 1641 broke out, was completely ravaged along with its offices, garden and orchard. At Dunlavin, County Wicklow, another Bulkeley property, a newly completed house and garden were similarly destroyed, and cattle, carts and building materials for the church were stolen.

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“ Old Bawn House was not long built when the rebellion of 1641 broke out, and Archdeacon Bulkeley’s improvements, not only there, but also at Dunlavin, in County Wicklow, where his father had bought another site for him, were laid waste. The depositions of the Bulkeleys’ servants and tenants, in most cases, like themselves, of Welsh birth, give a deplorable picture of the damage. Old Bawn House, with its offices, garden, and orchard, were stated to have been completely ravaged, and at Dunlavin, we are told, the destruction of a house, only just completed, and of a garden and orchard, newly surrounded with quick-set hedges, was lamentable to behold.
“ At Tallaght, cows and horses belonging to the orphan children of a brother of Archdeacon Bulkeley, and cattle and sheep belonging to the Archdeacon himself, were either stolen or sold at a sacrifice ; and at Dunlavin, great iron-bound carts, building materials, and a bell intended for the church were carried off. It is rather startling [Mr. Ball goes on to remark] to find in these Depositions a claim put forward for the entire cost of Old Bawn, although the damage does not appear to have been irreparable. A still more remarkable claim for compensation was suggested by the Archdeacon, who stated that his mother-in-law, having continued a widow for many years, had been forced to marry again, against her will, during the rebellion, and that ‘ he firmly believed in his conscience ’ that his wife had lost thereby a legacy which her mother had intended to leave her,”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 155

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Old Bawn, a house stood that had not long been built when the rebellion of 1641 broke out. It belonged to Archdeacon Bulkeley, and his improvements here and at Dunlavin in County Wicklow, where his father had bought another site for him, were laid waste. The depositions of the Bulkeleys' servants and tenants, most of them like the family of Welsh birth, give a deplorable picture of the damage. Old Bawn House, with its offices, garden, and orchard, were stated to have been completely ravaged. At Dunlavin, the destruction of a house only just completed, and of a garden and orchard newly surrounded with quick-set hedges, was lamentable to behold. At Tallaght, cows and horses belonging to the orphan children of a brother of Archdeacon Bulkeley, and cattle and sheep belonging to the Archdeacon himself, were either stolen or sold at a sacrifice. At Dunlavin, great iron-bound carts, building materials, and a bell intended for the church were carried off. It is rather startling, Mr. Ball remarks, to find in these Depositions a claim put forward for the entire cost of Old Bawn, although the damage does not appear to have been irreparable. A still more remarkable claim for compensation was suggested by the Archdeacon himself. He stated that his mother-in-law, having continued a widow for many years, had been forced to marry again against her will during the rebellion, and that, in his words, he firmly believed in his conscience that his wife had lost thereby a legacy which her mother had intended to leave her.

Saggart pillaged and burned in 1641 rebellion

Saggart · town · Dublin · 1641

At the time of the rebellion of 1641 Saggart was pillaged and burned by Sir Thomas Armstrong, who had with him a party of 200 horse.

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Other owners of property here were the Hancocks, Sir Andrew Savage, and Sir Henry ffolliott, and at a later period Sir William Parsons, while the town contained two castles. At the time of the rebellion of 1641 Saggart was pillaged and burned by Sir Thomas Armstrong, who had with him a party of 200 horse. In the succeeding centuries there is little to record save that in 1682 Thomas Hen was given the right to hold three fairs yearly and a weekly market — a privilege retained in 1705 by John Hen, and in 1741 by Philip Hen. About this time the greater portion of the lands of Saggart passed into the possession of Hean Swift, and were bequeathed by him at his death in 1745 for the purpose of endowing St. Patrick’s Hospital for lunatics. The patent of incorporation of this institution bears date 8th August, 1746. The remains of his Castle are still to he seen in the village at a short distance to the south of the Swiftbrook Paper Mills. In the hills near Saggart are abundant traces of pre-historic days ; and if one makes the ascent of Slievethoul, a large moat may be seen, 76 feet in circumference and 10 feet high. To the west lies Lynch Park, where there are stone circles. Near the village are two pillar-stones, and at Baheen another, and at Crooksling, near Brittas, a rath. A very old saying in this locality is “ To go to Saggart to stack blackberries.” This arose from the fact that the plant which bears this fruit is found in large quantities near the neighbouring hills.
About a mile to the south-west of Saggart, high up on the

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 49

As the companion tells it

As you come through Saggart, you are passing through a town with a violent chapter in its past. At the time of the rebellion of 1641 Saggart was pillaged and burned by Sir Thomas Armstrong, who had with him a party of 200 horse. The town then contained two castles, and among the owners of property here were the Hancocks, Sir Andrew Savage, Sir Henry ffolliott, and at a later period Sir William Parsons. In the succeeding centuries there is little to record, save that in 1682 Thomas Hen was given the right to hold three fairs yearly and a weekly market. That privilege was retained in 1705 by John Hen, and in 1741 by Philip Hen. About this time the greater portion of the lands of Saggart passed into the possession of Hean Swift, and were bequeathed by him at his death in 1745 for the purpose of endowing St. Patrick's Hospital for lunatics. The patent of incorporation of this institution bears date 8th August, 1746. The remains of his castle are still to be seen in the village, a short distance to the south of the Swiftbrook Paper Mills. The hills near Saggart hold traces of older days. On the ascent of Slievethoul a large moat may be seen, 76 feet in circumference and 10 feet high. To the west lies Lynch Park, where there are stone circles. Near the village are two pillar-stones, and at Baheen another, and at Crooksling, near Brittas, a rath. A very old saying in this locality is "to go to Saggart to stack blackberries." This arose from the fact that the plant which bears this fruit is found in large quantities near the neighbouring hills.

Thomas FitzGerald of Belan implicated in 1641 Rebellion, lands forfeited

Belan · townland · Kildare · 1641

At the outbreak of the 1641 Rebellion, Thomas FitzGerald was seised of 738 acres in Bealan Great and Little; he was implicated in the Rebellion and forfeited his possessions.

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before 1641, as at the breaking out of the Rebellion in October of that year a Thomas FitzGerald was seised of 738 acres in Bealan Great and Little: he was implicated in the Rebellion and forfeited his possessions ; he was probably a son of James’s.1 On the 14th June, 1647, an order was made by the Leinster Committee of the Confederates for Thomas FitzGerald of “Bellan ” to hand in certain sums for the support of the forces, and if he fails to do so, Captain Oliver Dongan’s company will be ceased on him.2 Besides Thomas, a Gerald fitz James Fitz- Gerald, of Bealan, was amongst those who were outlawed at this period.3
The origin of this branch of the FitzGeralds is not very clear. O’Clery in his “ Book of Pedigrees,” a manuscript of the seventeenth century in the Library of the Royal Irish Academy, states that the FitzGeralds of Donore and of Belan had a common ancestor in William FitzGerald, son of Thomas the Lame, who was the son of Thomas, son of Maurice, 4th Earl of Kildare, who died 1390. The annexed pedigree illustrates his descent from this family.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 159

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Thomas FitzGerald held land before the 1641 Rebellion broke out in October of that year. He was seised of 738 acres in Bealan Great and Little. When the Rebellion came, he was implicated in it and forfeited his possessions. He was probably a son of James FitzGerald. On the 14th of June 1647, the Leinster Committee of the Confederates ordered Thomas FitzGerald of Bellan to hand in certain sums for the support of the forces. If he failed to do so, Captain Oliver Dongan's company would be ceased on him. Besides Thomas, a Gerald fitz James FitzGerald of Bealan was among those outlawed at this period. The origin of this branch of the FitzGeralds is not very clear. O'Clery, in his Book of Pedigrees, a seventeenth-century manuscript in the Library of the Royal Irish Academy, states that the FitzGeralds of Donore and of Belan had a common ancestor in William FitzGerald, son of Thomas the Lame, who was the son of Thomas, son of Maurice, 4th Earl of Kildare, who died in 1390.

Whiteboys drilling at night near Belan

Belan · townland · Kildare · 1830–1845

At Belan House the narrator recalls being awakened at night by the steady tramp of the Whiteboys drilling in the fields nearby, an event treated with no alarm by the household despite awareness of their political nature.

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But to return to our arrival. At the door stood our dear hosts. Warm was our welcome. We were at once ushered into the dining-room, where a blazing turf fire was alight, with its delicious smell and white ashes. On the chimney-piece stood two jardinieres, all green, landscapes, figures, and flowers, in different shades, and two shepherdesses, sitting smiling under impossible flowering trees. Then came the tea, hot potatocakes, eggs, with milk in them, the cream, the honey, and the jam. Oh ! wt^ don’t we burn turf, and feast on potatocakes now? Off the dining-room came the drawing-room, in which I remember a very handsome mirror, with an eagle on top, a painting of the Virgin, and the window-seats — and what is so pleasant as sitting in a window on a low seat ? Next was our bed-room, with the same sort of windows, all of them looking on the quiet road. Once or twice we were awakened, in the dead of night, by a steady tramp as of soldiers marching past, and so, I suppose, in a sense, they were. On asking in the morning about it, we were answered: “Oh! it was only the Whiteboys out drilling these fine nights.” No one seemed to feel the least alarm; neither did we, though, young as we were (being Irish), we were politicians enough to know who the Whiteboys were. No doubt these were the very same men who were about at work all day, and were so courteous and well-mannered.
Awaking very early next morning, the low barking of the dogs, the singing of the birds, the quacking of the ducks, the many sounds and scents of the country were delightful ; and no

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Belan, a house once stood where a visitor recalled being awakened at night by the sound of the Whiteboys drilling in the fields. The narrator arrived at Belan House and was met at the door by their hosts. They were brought straight into the dining-room, where a turf fire burned with its smell of white ashes. On the chimney-piece stood two jardinières, all green, with landscapes, figures, and flowers, and two shepherdesses sitting smiling under impossible flowering trees. Then came tea, hot potato cakes, eggs with milk in them, cream, honey, and jam. Off the dining-room was the drawing-room, with a handsome mirror topped by an eagle, a painting of the Virgin, and window-seats. Next was the bedroom, with windows looking out on the quiet road. Once or twice, in the dead of night, the narrator was awakened by a steady tramp, as of soldiers marching past. And so, in a sense, they were. On asking about it in the morning, the answer came: "Oh! it was only the Whiteboys out drilling these fine nights." No one seemed to feel the least alarm. The narrator did not either, though young as they were, being Irish, they were politicians enough to know who the Whiteboys were. No doubt these were the same men who were about at work all day, courteous and well-mannered.

William Lewis marries into the Keatinge family of Narraghmore

Narraghmore · townland · Kildare · 1718–1719

William Lewis, agent to the Cosby family, married Judith Keatinge, third daughter of Col. Maurice Keatinge of Narraghmore, in 1718 against her father's consent, eloping with her by night; he died of a decline about a year later.

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£350. per annum to live on, and bis debts were £5,500. in 1700 be sold woods which were on tbe lands of Vicarstown for wh be got £1,000. by which then he had £450. to live on and his debts were but £4,500, and in the time he was in Spain and England there was paid off by Mr. William Lewis bis agent, out of tbe annual income of tbe Estate £1050. and Mr. Lewis also in that time paid some other debts which was contracted after my Father marryed my mother, I don’t know them all, but I know ye £300. which was borrowed for to buy my father’s Capts Commission, and £100. y* my father was obliged to pay for my uncle Sandy for not serving his apprentiship out, and £300. which he gave to my uncle Sandy in 1710 and £300. wh he gave to my uncle Billy 1710. There were some other small debts which I have heard of but do not remember. Mr. William Lewis was a most extraordinary agent, for he had my Fathers well fare at heart as if he had been his son and did manage for him most wonderfully well and with the greatest honesty, my F: allowed him £80 per annum but he never paid himself but let it go to pay debts, it, after his death, amounted to above £300 and my father paid it to his son Frank, he was father to Mr. Michel Lewis now of Tullygory, he had an elder son than Mick named William who was Agent to my Father after his Fathers death while he lived, he also was a very faithful honest man. He marryed 1718 Miss Judith Keatinge third daughter to Col. Maurice Keatinge of Narraghmore agst the CoPs consent, he ran away with her by night, he dyed of a decay in about a year after his marriage and then my Father recd his own rents.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 62

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in 1718, a younger William Lewis ran away by night with Miss Judith Keatinge, third daughter of Colonel Maurice Keatinge of Narraghmore. He married her against her father's consent, and died of a decay about a year after. The Lewis family had served the Cosby family as agents. The estate carried debts of £5,500 in 1700. Woods on the lands of Vicarstown were sold for £1,000, reducing the debts to £4,500. While the father was in Spain and England, William Lewis the elder, as agent, paid off £1,050 from the annual income of the estate. He also paid other debts contracted after the father married: £300 borrowed to buy the father's captain's commission, £100 the father was obliged to pay for his uncle Sandy for not serving out his apprenticeship, and £300 given to uncle Sandy in 1710 and £300 given to uncle Billy in 1710. William Lewis the elder was called "a most extraordinary agent" who had the father's welfare at heart "as if he had been his son" and managed for him "most wonderfully well and with the greatest honesty." He was allowed £80 per annum but never paid himself, letting it go toward debts. After his death, the unpaid salary amounted to above £300, paid to his son Frank. Frank was father to Michael Lewis, later of Tullygory. The elder Lewis had another son, William, elder than Frank, who became agent after his father died. He too was called a faithful, honest man. It was this William who eloped with Judith Keatinge against Colonel Keatinge's wishes. After he died about a year after the marriage, the father received his own rents.

Overnight stay at Quaker Cooper's house at Sragh

Sragh · townland · Carlow · 1729

On the journey towards county Wexford in April 1729, Pole Cosby's father accompanied them as far as Mr Cooper's, a Quaker, at Sragh, where they lodged the first night - this being the last time Pole Cosby ever saw his father.

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On the 20th day of April 1729 we went to Newfort and did stay there a fortnight, my Father did accompany us in our journey to the county Waxford as far as Mr. Coopers the Quakers at Sragh in this County, where we lay the first night and this was the last, time I ever saw him, he told us while we were abroad he would go and pay a visit to his Kings County
i;8

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 123

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, April 20, 1729, Pole Cosby's party left Newfort after a fortnight and headed toward County Wexford. His father accompanied them as far as Mr Cooper's, a Quaker at Sragh, where they lay the first night. It was the last time Cosby ever saw his father, who said that while they were abroad he would go pay a visit to his Kings County.

Rebellion Losses at Dunlavin, 1641

Dunlavin · town · Wicklow · 1641

At Dunlavin, County Wicklow, during the 1641 rebellion, a house only just completed, along with a garden and orchard newly surrounded with quick-set hedges, was destroyed. Great iron-bound carts, building materials, and a bell intended for the church were also carried off.

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“ Old Bawn House was not long built when the rebellion of 1641 broke out, and Archdeacon Bulkeley’s improvements, not only there, but also at Dunlavin, in County Wicklow, where his father had bought another site for him, were laid waste. The depositions of the Bulkeleys’ servants and tenants, in most cases, like themselves, of Welsh birth, give a deplorable picture of the damage. Old Bawn House, with its offices, garden, and orchard, were stated to have been completely ravaged, and at Dunlavin, we are told, the destruction of a house, only just completed, and of a garden and orchard, newly surrounded with quick-set hedges, was lamentable to behold.
“ At Tallaght, cows and horses belonging to the orphan children of a brother of Archdeacon Bulkeley, and cattle and sheep belonging to the Archdeacon himself, were either stolen or sold at a sacrifice ; and at Dunlavin, great iron-bound carts, building materials, and a bell intended for the church were carried off. It is rather startling [Mr. Ball goes on to remark] to find in these Depositions a claim put forward for the entire cost of Old Bawn, although the damage does not appear to have been irreparable. A still more remarkable claim for compensation was suggested by the Archdeacon, who stated that his mother-in-law, having continued a widow for many years, had been forced to marry again, against her will, during the rebellion, and that ‘ he firmly believed in his conscience ’ that his wife had lost thereby a legacy which her mother had intended to leave her,”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 155

As the companion tells it

Dunlavin in County Wicklow had a part in the troubles of 1641. Archdeacon Bulkeley's father had bought a site here for him, and the Archdeacon had been improving it. A house, only just completed, stood here, along with a garden and an orchard, newly surrounded with quick-set hedges. When the rebellion broke out, all of it was laid waste. The destruction, we are told, was lamentable to behold. The depositions of the Bulkeleys' servants and tenants give the picture. Most of these people, like the Bulkeleys themselves, were of Welsh birth. They described what was lost. Great iron-bound carts were carried off. Building materials were taken. A bell, intended for the church, was carried off too. The rebellion touched other places belonging to the same family. At Tallaght, cows and horses belonging to the orphan children of the Archdeacon's brother were stolen or sold at a sacrifice, and cattle and sheep belonging to the Archdeacon himself met the same fate. The Archdeacon put forward claims for compensation. One claim covered the entire cost of Old Bawn, though the damage there does not appear to have been irreparable. He suggested another claim as well. He stated that his mother-in-law, having continued a widow for many years, had been forced to marry again, against her will, during the rebellion. He said that he firmly believed in his conscience that his wife had thereby lost a legacy which her mother had intended to leave her.

Archbishop Bicknor builds Tallaght Castle

near Tallaght · town · Dublin · 1324

In 1324, Alexander de Bicknor, Archbishop of Dublin, received a remission of money in consideration of his building Tallaght Castle, needed due to proximity to the hostile O'Byrnes and O'Tooles of the Wicklow Mountains.

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In 1810 the bailiffs of “Tamelag” had a royal grant for three years, in aid of enclosing their town with walls ; and in 1824, Alexander de Bicknor, Archbishop of Dublin, had a remission of money, due by him in consideration of his building Tallaght Castle.1
The castle may have been rebuilt or strengthened at this date by Archbishop Bicknor, as the proximity of the hostile septs of the O’Byrnes and O’Tooles in the neighbouring Wicklow Mountains would cause a castle or fortified residence here to be absolutely necessary. Later on the castle is described as the Manor-house of the Archbishops, and, when they did not reside in it themselves, was left in charge of a garrison, under a Constable appointed by them.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

As the road passes through Tallaght, you move through a place once guarded by stone. In 1324, Alexander de Bicknor, Archbishop of Dublin, received a remission of money he owed, in return for building Tallaght Castle. The castle may have been a rebuild or a strengthening of an earlier building. It was needed because the hostile septs of the O'Byrnes and the O'Tooles, in the neighbouring Wicklow Mountains, made a fortified residence here absolutely necessary. Later, the castle was described as the Manor-house of the Archbishops. When they did not live in it themselves, they left it in the charge of a garrison, under a Constable they appointed.

Archbishop Bulkeley builds Old Bawn House in 1635

near Old Bawn · minor feature · Wexford · 1635–1650

Archbishop Lancelot Bulkeley, who died at the Tallaght Manor-house in 1650, built the Old Bawn House in 1635, a date that appears on one of the chimney-pieces along with his coat-of-arms impaling the See of Dublin.

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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.
During the rebellion of 1641 this neighbourhood suffered severely ; and in the summer of 1642 the Council directed that twelve musketeers should be sent to Tallaght to protect the Archbishop’s house. In the following year the Irish forces seized and drove off the cattle belonging to the inhabitants ; and during a sally from the castle, a Captain Bret and some of the garrison fell into an ambuscade, in which he and nine men were slain.4

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 18

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Old Bawn, a house was built in 1635 by Archbishop Lancelot Bulkeley. The date is cut into one of the chimney-pieces, and his coat-of-arms, impaling the See of Dublin, is carved on another. Bulkeley died at the Tallaght Manor-house on the 8th of September, 1650, in his eighty-second year. The rebellion of 1641 brought severe suffering to this neighbourhood. In the summer of 1642 the Council directed that twelve musketeers be sent to Tallaght to protect the Archbishop's house. The following year, Irish forces seized and drove off the cattle belonging to the inhabitants. During a sally from the castle, a Captain Bret and some of the garrison fell into an ambuscade, in which he and nine men were slain.

Archbishop's 1289 campaign against rebels via Baltinglass

Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1289

John de Saundford, Archbishop of Dublin and Keeper of Ireland, marched with an armed force in autumn 1289 from Ballymore Eustace to Baltinglass, summoning English and Irish to attack rebels, before proceeding to Carlow.

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“The Irish of Offaly and Leix, rebels and enemies of the King, remained so hostile that no peace could be established in the marches of Leinster, but the King’s lieges were daily killed, their houses burned, and intolerable depredations were made. The Keeper consequently devoted himself throughout the whole autumn of 1289 to restore the King’s peace, parleying with the Irish at le Ryban (Rheban), Moyraet (Morett), and Rosglas (Monasterevin), but he could not draw them to the King’s peace. At length, in compliance with the King’s Council, he made provision to invade them with an army. So that on Saturday next after the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (8th September) in the same autumn (i.e., on the 10th of September) he prepared himself and went from Balymor (Eustace) to Balkinglas, and there caused to be summoned before him as well the English as the Irish of the mountains of Dublin and adjacent parts, who all promised at his request to be ready to attack the rebels. This done on the Sunday following he went to Carlow, and afterwards to le Lough, near Kilkenny, where he ordered and commanded all men of good will to the King throughout Leinster to come with their forces to Butavaunt in Leix.” Etc.4
The following references to Baltinglass Abbey are taken from the Calendar of Justiciary Rolls of the end of the thirteenth century.5 Though of little historical importance, yet these

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 248

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Baltinglass here in County Wicklow. In the autumn of 1289, John de Saundford, Archbishop of Dublin and Keeper of Ireland, marched an armed force through this town. The Irish of Offaly and Leix had risen as rebels and enemies of the King, killing the King's lieges, burning houses, and making intolerable depredations along the marches of Leinster. Saundford spent the whole autumn trying to restore the King's peace, parleying with the Irish at Rheban, Morett, and Monasterevin, but could not draw them to submission. On the 10th of September, a Saturday after the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, he came from Ballymore Eustace to Baltinglass, and here summoned both the English and the Irish of the mountains of Dublin and adjacent parts. They all promised to be ready to attack the rebels. The next day, Sunday, he marched on to Carlow, and afterwards to Lough near Kilkenny, where he commanded all men of good will to the King throughout Leinster to bring their forces to Butavaunt in Leix.

Baltinglass Abbey and Town Burnt During Rebellion

Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1580–1604

The jurors of the 1604 Inquisition affirmed that Viscount Baltinglass broke down the Abbey and House and burnt the whole town, which along with its lands lay utterly waste during and long after the rebellion.

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“ They further saie that the said Yicount in his lifetyme brake downe the Abbey and Howse, and burnt the whole towne, which together with the lands aforesaid continued utterlie wast during the said rebellion and long after.
‘ 4 And they alsoe finde that the said Abbie, with the lands thereof aforesaid, were committed to Sr Franncis Stafford, then Capn Stafford,3 at the yearlie rent of fortie nine pounds nineteen shillings pennie halfepennie.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 260

As the companion tells it

Baltinglass, in Wicklow, was left in ruin. Jurors at the 1604 inquisition found that Viscount Baltinglass broke down the abbey and house and burnt the whole town. The town and its lands lay utterly waste during the rebellion and long after. The abbey and its lands were then committed to Sir Francis Stafford at a yearly rent of 49 pounds, 19 shillings, and a halfpenny.

Ceremonial homecoming at Blackford on the bounds of Queen's County

Blackford · townland · Laois · 1724

On returning from abroad in 1724, Pole Cosby was met at Blackford, the bounds of the county, by gentlemen, tenants, garlands and long dancers, with his father giving drink and money to the common people.

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My Father came up to Dublin on ye 8th to meet me, he had ye gout on him when he left Stradbally & traveling though in a Chair made him much worse so y* ye day after he got to Dublin he was very ill & obliged to keep his bed & continued very ill for a few days, all friend & acquientances that heard of my being come flocked in to see me, we left Dublin the 13th & the 14th we got to Stradbally to my great joy, for it was very great to meet with my Good Mother, tears of joy were Mutual, at Blackford the bounds of the County we were met by several gentlemen, friends and tenants and Garlands and long dancers and my Father invited them all home to dine with him, and gave drink and money to the common people and dancers. The next day the 15th of April 1724 was my Birthday and the day of my being 21 years old, and so there was danceing and long danceing and great joy amongst all the tenants and a great deal of company dined with us, and every day after for a long time there was company dined with us who came to see me on my Returning from abroad. Most of our time this summer was taken up in returning and receiveing visits and in this years Trinity term my Father and I went up to Dublin and levied fines and suffered recoverys and he was so uneasy at being in Dublin and so hasty to get home that he woTl not stay for the drawing a deed declaring the uses of the fine and recovery, and happy it was that it did happen so, for ye deed that he wo’d have had wo’d have been my ruin as hereafter shall be told. This summer the Fort came into great vogue. When my father set William Dod Yiccarstown he reserved ye fort and seven acres out of his lease, and there he fixed one Radley, whose father had lived there under my Grandfather and Great grandfather, sence before 1641, by way of a fouler, and my father reserved it & fixed Thomas

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 114

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in 1724, a young man coming home from abroad was met with garlands and dancing. His name was Pole Cosby. His father had gone up to Dublin on the 8th to meet him, though he had the gout on him, and travelling in a chair made him much worse. The day after he got to Dublin he was very ill and kept his bed for a few days. Friends and acquaintances who heard Pole had come flocked in to see him. They left Dublin on the 13th, and on the 14th they reached Stradbally. He wrote that it was very great to meet his good mother, and that tears of joy were mutual. But it was at Blackford, the bounds of the county, that the welcome happened. Several gentlemen, friends and tenants met them there, with garlands and long dancers. His father invited them all home to dine with him, and gave drink and money to the common people and the dancers. The next day, the 15th of April 1724, was Pole's birthday, the day of his being 21 years old. There was dancing and long dancing and great joy amongst all the tenants, and a great deal of company dined with them. Every day after, for a long time, company came to dine, to see him on his returning from abroad. Most of that summer was taken up returning and receiving visits. His father was so uneasy at being in Dublin later that year, so hasty to get home, that he would not stay for the drawing of a deed. Pole wrote that happy it was that it did happen so, for the deed his father would have had would have been his ruin. He said that story would be told later.

Clondalkin founded as Dun-Auley, fortress of Aulaff the Dane

near Clondalkin · town · Dublin · 600–700

Clondalkin is identified with Dun-Auley, the fortress of Aulaff the Dane, with various etymologies discussed including derivation from St. Olave or from 'cluain' meaning meadow. St. Mochua founded an abbey here as early as the seventh century.

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CLONDALKIN is otherwise known as Dun-Auley, the fortress of Aulatf the Dane. Of the name Clondalkin, various explanations have been given. Dr. Ledwich derived it from St. Olave, corrupted, as he says, into Auly, and then Dunauley, and finally Clondalkin — an explanation which has justly been termed “ sufficiently far-fetched.” In Yol. II, No. 5, of our Journal Lord Walter FitzGerald, following Dr. Joyce, translates it ‘Dolcan’s meadow,’ ‘cion’ being identical with ‘clane,’ ‘ cluain,’ or ‘ cloon,’ a very common prefix to Irish names of places, as in ‘ Clontarf,’ ‘ Clonfert,’ and ‘ Clonmacnoise.’ Of course I bow to this authority, otherwise I should have been inclined to conjecture that possibly ‘ Dalkin ’ may be identical with the Danish ‘ Dalk ’ in ‘ Dalkey,’ the Irish equivalent to which is ‘ delginis,’ both words meaning ‘ a thorn ’ — -Dalkey thus meaning the ‘ Thorn Island.’ Clondalkin, according to this derivation, would mean ‘ the meadow of the thorn-tree.5
As early as the seventh century St. Mochua or Machotus, whose festival was held on August 6th, founded an abbey here, which, like many other Irish abbeys, was repeatedly plundered and burnt, notably in 832, 1071, and 1076. Of course the abbey was not a stone building, but, as was common in those days,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Clondalkin, you are moving through a place once known as Dun-Auley, the fortress of Aulaff the Dane. The name Clondalkin has been much argued over. Dr. Ledwich traced it to St. Olave, an explanation called "sufficiently far-fetched." Lord Walter FitzGerald, following Dr. Joyce, translated it as Dolcan's meadow, taking the first part from the Irish word found in names like Clontarf and Clonmacnoise. Another guess links the second half to the Danish word in Dalkey, meaning thorn, which would make it the meadow of the thorn-tree. As early as the seventh century, St. Mochua, whose festival fell on August 6th, founded an abbey here. It was not a stone building but, as was common in those days, built of lighter materials. Like many Irish abbeys, it was repeatedly plundered and burnt, notably in 832, 1071, and 1076.

Confederate order against Thomas FitzGerald of Belan for war funds

Belan · townland · Kildare · 1647

On 14th June 1647 the Leinster Committee of the Confederates ordered Thomas FitzGerald of Belan to hand in sums to support the forces, threatening seizure by Captain Oliver Dongan's company if he failed.

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before 1641, as at the breaking out of the Rebellion in October of that year a Thomas FitzGerald was seised of 738 acres in Bealan Great and Little: he was implicated in the Rebellion and forfeited his possessions ; he was probably a son of James’s.1 On the 14th June, 1647, an order was made by the Leinster Committee of the Confederates for Thomas FitzGerald of “Bellan ” to hand in certain sums for the support of the forces, and if he fails to do so, Captain Oliver Dongan’s company will be ceased on him.2 Besides Thomas, a Gerald fitz James Fitz- Gerald, of Bealan, was amongst those who were outlawed at this period.3
The origin of this branch of the FitzGeralds is not very clear. O’Clery in his “ Book of Pedigrees,” a manuscript of the seventeenth century in the Library of the Royal Irish Academy, states that the FitzGeralds of Donore and of Belan had a common ancestor in William FitzGerald, son of Thomas the Lame, who was the son of Thomas, son of Maurice, 4th Earl of Kildare, who died 1390. The annexed pedigree illustrates his descent from this family.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 159

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in Belan, a man named Thomas FitzGerald held land before the trouble came. He was seized of 738 acres in Great and Little Bealan before the Rebellion broke out in October 1641. He was implicated in that Rebellion and forfeited his possessions for it. He was probably a son of James's. On the 14th of June 1647, the Leinster Committee of the Confederates made an order for Thomas FitzGerald of Bellan to hand in certain sums for the support of the forces. If he failed to do so, Captain Oliver Dongan's company would be ceased on him. Besides Thomas, a Gerald fitz James FitzGerald of Bealan was among those outlawed at this period. The origin of this branch of the FitzGeralds is not very clear. O'Clery, in his Book of Pedigrees, a 17th-century manuscript held in the Library of the Royal Irish Academy, states that the FitzGeralds of Donore and of Belan had a common ancestor in William FitzGerald, son of Thomas the Lame, who was the son of Thomas, son of Maurice, 4th Earl of Kildare, who died in 1390.

Daniel Byrne the Tailor Purchases the Lordships of Timoge and Tully

Timogue · townland · Laois

Daniel Byrne, a Dublin tailor who made clothes for both of the author's grandfathers, purchased the Lordship of Timoge and the Lordship of Tully for £1000 from Captain Fitzgerald, father of the Earl of Kildare, when Fitzgerald could not pay his tailoring debt in cash and instead gave land.

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Sir Daniel Byrne Baronet Father to the present Sir John Byrne dyed Michaelmas 1715, he was a Papist, his Father was Sir Gregory who was son to Daniel Byrne a great taylor in Dublin, he was taylor to both my Grandfathers and made cloaths for Both them and their servants, he was ye founder of ye Familly, and he was a Protestant, he purchased ye Lordship of Timoge and ye Lordship of Tully for ,£1000— from one Capt. Fitzgerald father of Robert present Earl of Killdare, and the £1000 was for cloaths, when Daniel asked him for money he told him he had none hut he would give him y* spot of ground he had in the Queens County for it, and so Daniel got proper deeds drawn and he perfected them to him. The Lordship of Shane and the Lordship of Kilmurray Daniel purchased from Colonel Whitney for £1500, some was for cloaths and ye rest was money lent, these four Lordships he gave to his eldest son Gregory and gave him a Hawking Patent of King Charles the 2nd for to make him a barronet. Sir Gregory was born a Protestant, turned Papist, and when he married his first wife Coppley a Presbeteryan, he turned Protestant and when he marryed his second wife Lord Slanes daughter he turned Papist and dyed a Papist, by his first wife he got very considerable relations, and had by her Sir Daniel Byrne, Thomas Fitzgerald of Moret Esquire’s wife, and Martin Scorloge’s wife, and Lady O’Neal and one Mrs. Megragh ; by his second wife he had seven sons ye eldest lives on a handsome estate he did purchase for him in the county of Killkenny, Sir Daniel marryed Anna Dorothea Warren eldest daughter of Mr. Warren of Poynton in Cheshire in England a most antient family ever since William the Conquerors reign, Sir Daniel had by her several children those that were alive at his death were Sir Jn., Margot, Anne, Frances, Katherine, and Daniel, Margot Marryed the 6th of Feb. : 1727 Jonah Barringhton Esq. (my second cusin) and the 27th of November 1728 John their son was Born, Sir John marryed about March 1728 the widdow Leigh of Lime in Cheshire Daughter to Sir Francis Lester Baronet, she was sd to be a great fortune to him, they had a son (Peter) Born in ye year 1734 and have more children now (1737) Sir John was Born anno. 1705, yt I know by his being of age in October 1726. My Lady his mother educated him from ye year after Sir Daniel died in England and 1725 she sent over her younger son Daniel to school in England for 3 or 4 years, and then Bound him to a Woollen drapier in London, he is now 1737 above these two

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 163

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around Timogue, a tailor from Dublin bought land that changed his family's standing. Daniel Byrne was a great tailor in Dublin. He made clothes for both of the author's grandfathers and their servants. He was the founder of the family, and he was a Protestant. He purchased the Lordship of Timoge and the Lordship of Tully for £1000 from Captain Fitzgerald, father of Robert, the present Earl of Kildare. The £1000 was for clothes. When Daniel asked Fitzgerald for money, Fitzgerald told him he had none, but he would give him the spot of ground he had in the Queen's County. So Daniel got proper deeds drawn, and Fitzgerald perfected them to him. Daniel did not stop there. He purchased the Lordship of Shane and the Lordship of Kilmurray from Colonel Whitney for £1500, some for clothes and the rest money lent. He gave all four lordships to his eldest son Gregory, and obtained a Hawking Patent from King Charles the 2nd to make Gregory a baronet. Gregory was born a Protestant, turned Papist, and when he married his first wife Coppley, a Presbyterian, he turned Protestant again. When he married his second wife, Lord Slane's daughter, he turned Papist and died a Papist. By his first wife he gained considerable relations and had several children, among them Sir Daniel Byrne, and daughters who married into the Fitzgerald, Scorloge, and O'Neal families.

Demolition of Tallaght Palace and Hoadly's chimney-piece moved to Tubbrid

near Tallaght · town · Dublin · 1821–1822

In 1822 Archbishop Magee sold the Tallaght demesne to Major Palmer on condition the palace be demolished; only a vault survived, now a tree-covered mound. The Hoadly chimney-piece was saved and shipped to Tubbrid Church in County Tipperary, where it remains.

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In the following year (1822) Archbishop Magee sold the demesne to a Major Palmer, then Inspector-General of Prisons, on the condition that the palace should be demolished. He accordingly pulled it down, and built a mansion-house with the materials. Nothing remained but a great vault, formerly part
'The only stones now visible on the “Friar’s Walk” are a red “ pudding-stone ” boulder about half-way down this green walk, which has a bullaun, or hollow, in it ; and a small, round granite boulder, which lies at one end of the walk, with a peculiar “rifled” perforation through it.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 21

As the companion tells it

Tallaght was once the site of an archbishop's palace. In 1822 Archbishop Magee sold the demesne to Major Palmer, then Inspector-General of Prisons, on the condition that the palace should be demolished. Palmer accordingly pulled it down and built a mansion-house with the materials. Nothing remained but a great vault, formerly part of the palace. The only stones now visible on the Friar's Walk are a red pudding-stone boulder about half-way down this green walk, which has a bullaun, or hollow, in it, and a small round granite boulder at one end with a peculiar rifled perforation through it.

Dr. Owen O'Shiell Residing at Woodstock Castle During Civil War

Woodstock Castle · castle · Kildare · 1648–1650

In 1648, during the Confederate occupation of the area, Dr. Owen O'Shiell, a physician, and his wife Catherine, daughter of Captain Richard Tyrrell, resided at Woodstock Castle. He was later slain in the battle of Letterkenny in July 1650.

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In 1648, when the Confederates were in possession, Owen O’Shiell, “ a doctor of phisicks,” and his wife Catherine, a daughter of Captain Bicliard Tyrrell, were residing in Woodstock Castle. Dr. Owen was a son of James O’Shiell, a native of Moycashell, in the County Westmeath ; the former was slain in the battle of Letterkenny, County Donegal, in July 1650.2
In 1649 the Confederates were still in possession of Athy, and just before their march on Dublin a Council of War was held in Woodstock Castle, then the residence of Colonel Pierce FitzGerald, of Ballysliannon, County Kildare, who was otherwise known as “ MacThomas.” Those that were then present were Captain Maurice FitzGerald, of Allen ; Sir John Dongan, of Castletown, Co. Kildare ; Sir Robert Talbot, of Carton, Co. Kildare ; Dr. Terence MacCoghlan, M.D., of Kilkenny ; Father William Garan, Vicar of Ballysliannon, Co. Kildare ; and Friar Paul MacGeoghegan, of the Franciscan Order.3

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 184

As the companion tells it

A castle at Woodstock in Kildare. In 1648, when the Confederates held the country, Owen O'Shiell, "a doctor of phisicks," and his wife Catherine, daughter of Captain Richard Tyrrell, were residing in Woodstock Castle. Owen was a son of James O'Shiell, a native of Moycashell in County Westmeath. He was slain at the battle of Letterkenny, County Donegal, in July 1650. In 1649 the Confederates still held Athy, and just before their march on Dublin a Council of War was held in Woodstock Castle, then the residence of Colonel Pierce FitzGerald of Ballysliannon, County Kildare, otherwise known as "MacThomas." Those present were Captain Maurice FitzGerald of Allen; Sir John Dongan of Castletown; Sir Robert Talbot of Carton; Dr. Terence MacCoghlan of Kilkenny; Father William Garan, Vicar of Ballysliannon; and Friar Paul MacGeoghegan of the Franciscan Order.

Duke of Tyrconnell Dies in Limerick Without Male Issue

Limerick · city · Limerick · 1691

Colonel Richard Talbot of Carton, who revived the title Viscount Baltinglass in 1685 and became Duke of Tyrconnell, died in Limerick in 1691 without male issue, ending the title.

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In 1685 the title of Viscount Baltinglass was revived in the person of Colonel Richard Talbot of Carton, who was advanced to the dignity of Duke of Tyrconnell four years later. The career of this great Jacobite leader is sketched in the fourth volume of the Journal. On his death in Limerick in 1691, without male issue, this title became extinct.
In the following century the Stratfords of Belan, County Kildare, were closely connected with Baltinglass ; their family burial-place being in the Abbey graveyard. In 1768 John Stratford, who was M.P. for Baltinglass in the reigns of the first two Georges, was created Baron of Baltinglass, and in 1776 Viscount Aldborough. In 1777 he was advanced to the dignities

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 264

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Limerick, this is where Colonel Richard Talbot of Carton died in 1691. He was a Jacobite leader whose title of Viscount Baltinglass was revived in his person in 1685, and four years later he was advanced to Duke of Tyrconnell. He died without male issue, and the title became extinct.

Earl of Ossory Captures Carlow, Athy, and Woodstock

Woodstock Castle · castle · Kildare · 1534

In August 1534 Pierce Butler, Earl of Ossory, captured the castles of Carlow, Athy, and Woodstock during the Silken Thomas rebellion, though they were soon retaken by the rebel's allies.

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In the month of August, 1534, Pierce Butler, Earl of Ossory, captured the castles of Carlow, Athy, and Woodstock, but they were, not long after, again retaken by the Silken Thomas’s allies.
After the fall of Maynooth Castle, through treachery, in March, 1535, O’More, who held Athy and Woodstock, appears to have found it expedient to evacuate and dismantle these two castles, with the idea of preventing them from being occupied by the forces of the Crown; but, owing to their important positions, the latter caused them to be repaired, as is proved by the following extracts from the State Papers. The first extract is from a letter written by Lord Leonard Grey, the Lord Deputy, to Thomas Cromwell, the

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 182

As the companion tells it

In August 1534, Pierce Butler, Earl of Ossory, captured the castles of Carlow, Athy, and Woodstock, but they were not long after retaken by the Silken Thomas's allies. After the fall of Maynooth Castle through treachery in March 1535, O'More, who held Athy and Woodstock, appears to have found it expedient to evacuate and dismantle these two castles, to prevent them from being occupied by the forces of the Crown. Owing to their important positions, the Crown caused them to be repaired, as is proved by extracts from the State Papers, including a letter from Lord Leonard Grey, the Lord Deputy, to Thomas Cromwell.

Edward Bruce's march through Rathangan, 1315

Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1315

During his invasion of Ireland, Edward Bruce, crowned King of Ireland in 1315, marched through Totmoy, Rathangan, Kildare, Castledermot, Athy and Rheban, suffering losses, before gaining a battle near Skerries by Arscoll.

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James Grace, of Kilkenny, in his “ Ann ales Hibernise,” states that Edward Bruce (who in May, 1315, had been crowned King of Ireland), brother of Robert, King of Scotland, during his invasion of Ireland spent the Christmas of 1315 at Loughseudy, in the County Westmeath. “ Then he went to Totmoy and Rathymegan, and Kildare, and the neighbourhood of Tristill Dermot (Castledermot) and Athy, and Rheban, though not without loss ; afterwards he came to Skethir (Skerries), near Arscoll,” where he gained a battle over the Lord Deputy’s army.
According to “ The Earl of Kildare’s Red Book,” Richard, 3rd Earl of Kildare, died young on the 7th July, 1331. His death is said to have taken place at Rathangan, and he was buried near his father in the Grey Abbey at Kildare.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 90

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Edward Bruce marched through Rathangan in 1315. He was the brother of Robert, King of Scotland, and had been crowned King of Ireland that May. James Grace of Kilkenny records that Bruce spent Christmas of 1315 at Loughseudy in Westmeath. Then he went to Totmoy and Kildare, and the neighbourhood of Castledermot and Athy and Rheban, "though not without loss." Afterwards he came to Skerries near Arscoll, where he gained a battle over the Lord Deputy's army. Richard, 3rd Earl of Kildare, also died here on the 7th of July 1331, young, and was buried near his father in the Grey Abbey at Kildare.

Fatal Jaunting Car Accident Commemorated at Rathcoole

Rathcoole · town · Dublin · 1827

A table-tomb at the east end of Rathcoole churchyard commemorates Richard Adkins of Athy, who was killed near that spot by a blow from a jaunting car in 1827.

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To the Memory of Richard Adkins, Esq1’- of Athy who was Killed near this spot by a blow from a Jaunting Car on the 11th of Feb, 1827, Aged 56 years.
At the south side of the church is a flat slab, on which is inscribed : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 76

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Rathcoole, there is a table-tomb at the east end of the churchyard here. It remembers Richard Adkins of Athy, who was killed near that spot by a blow from a jaunting car on the 11th of February 1827, aged 56 years.

Foundation of monastery at Saggart by St. Mosacra

Saggart · town · Dublin · 675–700

Saggart, meaning St. Sacra's House or Church, was the site of a monastery founded by St. Mosacra or Sacra during the last quarter of the seventh century.

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Saggart (i.e., Teach Sacra, St. Sacra’s House or Church) was the site of a monastery founded by St. Mosacra1 or Sacra, during the last quarter of the seventh century. The name is generally found written in ancient documents as “ Tassagart.” Shortly after the occupation of Dublin by Anglo-Normans, Saggart was retained as Crown property, and created a Royal Manor, and the rental is returned in 1235 as £75 2s. 4d. — no inconsiderable amount in those days. The chief sources of revenue at this time were the mill, and pleas and perquisites of the manor court, as well as the rents from middlemen. Towards the end of the thirteenth century, we find John and Richard of Tassagart mentioned as vendors of wine, sent to Wales for the King’s use. In 1272, Robert Owen, King’s Sergeant, recommends that the Manor of Saggart, “ near the land of war,” should be exchanged for lands at Newcastle Lyons, “near the land of peace.” This quaintly-worded suggestion throws a vivid light on the condition of the district which, notwithstanding the efforts made by the Crown to protect their property, was repeatedly devastated by the Irish tribes ; and in Ball’s “History of the County Dublin ” we read that payments for protection were paid in 1276 to “ Geoffrey le Bret of Rathfarnham,” in 1277 to “ Hugh de Cruise,” and in 1282 and 1294 to “ John Riryth.” The mountain lands south and west of Saggart were at this time covered with forests, and were granted to the Archbishop of Dublin at the beginning of this century ; the portion of his property joining Saggart being known as the Manor of Brittas, from which, besides the usual profits, he also received “ tribute beer and meat ” ; but here again proximity to the Irish lessened the value of land ; and we may take it for granted that if His Grace was depending on the Brittas for the supply of his table, it would often be spread with very scanty fare.
a.d. 1311, Saggart was attacked and destroyed by the O’Tooles and O’Byrnes.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 48

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Saggart now. The name comes from Teach Sacra, meaning St. Sacra's House or Church, and it was here that St. Mosacra, also called Sacra, founded a monastery in the last quarter of the seventh century. After the Anglo-Normans took Dublin, Saggart became Crown property and was made a Royal Manor, returning a rental of 75 pounds, 2 shillings and 4 pence in 1235, a substantial sum in those days. The mill and the manor court were the chief sources of revenue. Towards the end of the thirteenth century, John and Richard of Tassagart, as the name was then written, sold wine sent to Wales for the King's use. In 1272, Robert Owen, the King's Sergeant, recommended exchanging the Manor of Saggart, described as "near the land of war," for lands at Newcastle Lyons, "near the land of peace." The district was repeatedly devastated by Irish tribes despite Crown efforts to protect it, and payments for protection were made to various men in 1276, 1277, 1282, and 1294. The mountain lands south and west of Saggart were forested and granted to the Archbishop of Dublin, who received "tribute beer and meat" from the Manor of Brittas, though proximity to the Irish lessened the land's value. In 1311, Saggart was attacked and destroyed by the O'Tooles and O'Byrnes.

Lullymore and Lullybeg conjectured as ancient Erie and Alba

Lullymore · parish · Kildare

The author conjectures that the islands of Lullymore and Lullybeg in the Bog of Allen were anciently named Erie and Alba by inhabitants of Allen, resembling the shapes of Ireland and England when viewed from the hill of Allen.

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There are two islands in the bog called respectively Lullymore and Lullybeg, and I would direct our readers’ attention to their position on the map. The surface of the larger is about two and a half square miles English, that of the smaller about one-fourth that size, and both consist of excellent upland rising well above the surface of the bog. They shine an emerald green in the brown, heather-covered peat; and they are prominent objects in the landscape, as seen from an eminence like the hill of Allen, which is four or five miles away. An observer standing at Allen and looking across at these two islands in the bog— the larger to the right, the smaller to the left — would not require much imagination to discover a resemblance between them and the British Isles — Ireland and England. We may suppose Allen to have been the centre of light and learning in those days, as it was certainly the centre of power ; and I think we may conclude that the high and mighty Allenites had a good deal to do in conferring placenames on the localities of their neighbourhood. My conjecture, therefore, is that the present Lullymore and Lullybeg were called Erie and Alba by the Allenites of that period; and that a few centuries afterwards, when Allen lost its prestige and power, these fanciful names disappeared.
I think, then, that the present Cushaling, and the Cashalin of Noble and Keenan, is the Cais of the “ Four Masters” and other authorities; that the Gralloch is the junction of the Crabtree and the other stream at Shanavoola ; and that Erie and Alba are Lullymore and Lullybeg. Lully means * a cow with a calf ’ ; and we know that it was to make a raid for cows that Laoghaire came to Carbury. These two green islands were the

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 137

As the companion tells it

The parish of Lullymore holds two islands in the Bog of Allen, called Lullymore and Lullybeg. The larger is about two and a half square miles, the smaller about a quarter of that, and both are excellent upland rising above the bog. They shine emerald green in the brown heather-covered peat, and they stand out in the landscape from the hill of Allen, which is four or five miles away. An observer standing at Allen and looking across at these two islands would not require much imagination to see a resemblance between them and the British Isles, Ireland and England, with the larger to the right and the smaller to the left. The author supposes Allen to have been the centre of light and learning in those days, as it was certainly the centre of power, and suggests that the high and mighty Allenites had a good deal to do in conferring place-names on the localities of their neighbourhood. His conjecture is that Lullymore and Lullybeg were called Erie and Alba by the Allenites of that period, and that a few centuries afterwards, when Allen lost its prestige and power, these fanciful names disappeared. He adds that Lully means a cow with a calf, and notes that it was to make a raid for cows that Laoghaire came to Carbury. These two green islands were the

Monastic Valuables Thrown Down a Well at Tullow

Tullow · town · Carlow

Tradition holds that when the monasteries were suppressed, valuables were thrown down a well at Tullow; a later lease of the land reserved to the landlord anything of that sort which might ever be found.

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When the monasteries were suppressed, it is said a quantity of valuables were thrown down a well at Tullow ; and in a lease of land where this is supposed to have taken place, a clause was inserted reserving to the landlord anything of that sort which might ever be found on the property.
The church at Tullow is the third that has been built there ; and Ryan’s History of Carlow, printed in 1838, says it had been put up about three years. There is a stone font lying in the churchyard, and under it is the arm of a man named M‘Nab, who, when a boy, was one of the drummers who whipped Father Murphy before he was shot. Tullow Castle is supposed to have stood close by where the church is.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 211

As the companion tells it

When the monasteries were suppressed, it is said a quantity of valuables were thrown down a well in the town of Tullow. In a lease of the land where this is supposed to have taken place, a clause was inserted reserving to the landlord anything of that sort which might ever be found on the property. The church there is the third that has been built. Ryan's History of Carlow, printed in 1838, says it had been put up about three years. There is a stone font lying in the churchyard, and under it is the arm of a man named McNab, who, when a boy, was one of the drummers who whipped Father Murphy before he was shot. The castle is supposed to have stood close by where the church is.

Mr. Douglas the seneschal of Stradbally, a 103-year-old Scotsman

Stradbally · town · Laois · 1683–1734

Thomas Douglas came to live at Stradbally in 1683 as tutor and later became seneschal, remaining in the family for over 51 years until his death in 1734 aged 103. He had lost a leg as a child and was noted for his piety, learning, and good character.

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He came to live with my Gr F: Cosby ye 2lth of June 1683 and he died ye 6th of October 1784 so y* he lived in this family 51 years and a quarter ; he was 52 years old the 15th of March before he came to live with my Grandfather so then he was Born the 15th of March 1630 so yl he was 103 years 6 months and 21 days old when he died. He had been a dissenter of ye Presbeterian Communion, the reason he did not continue of y* religion was only because there was no meeting house within his reach, he was a constant Churchman and Communicant. He had a pleasing handsome grave reverend countenance.
There was one John Kotheram son of Sir Thomas Rotheram who was one of the Lord Justices in 1641, he left his son, his only son a very Great fortune, but he was a very great spendthrift and spent every groat. He was a cousin germain of my Grand Mother Cosbys and a merry sort of man and hit my Gr: Father’s Houmour, so for many years he lived with My Gr: Father and was a great help to my G: F’s extravagances he

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun

As the companion tells it

Stradbally was home to a Scotsman named Thomas Douglas, who arrived on the 12th of June 1683 to live with the Cosby family as a tutor, and later became their seneschal. He was born the 15th of March 1630, 52 years old when he came. He stayed with the family for 51 years and a quarter, until his death on the 6th of October 1734. He was then 103 years, 6 months, and 21 days old. He had lost a leg as a child, but he was known for his piety, learning, and good character. He had been a dissenter of the Presbyterian communion, but became a constant churchman and communicant, because there was no meeting house within his reach. He had, as the record says, "a pleasing handsome grave reverend countenance." The Cosby household drew others too. John Rotheram, son of Sir Thomas Rotheram, one of the Lord Justices in 1641, inherited a great fortune and spent every groat. A cousin of the grandmother Cosby, he was a merry man who suited the grandfather's humour, and lived there for years, helping the grandfather in his extravagances.

Original Cosby mansion at Stradbally destroyed by fire, said by the O'Mores

Stradbally · town · Laois · 1772–1866

The original house built by the Cosby family at Stradbally was destroyed by fire, reportedly by the O'Mores. A new mansion was built on a different site in 1772 by Dudley Alexander Cosby, Lord Sydney of Leix and Baron of Stradbally, and was greatly enlarged in 1866 by Colonel Robert G. Cosby.

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The illustration on the opposite page shows the original house built by the family, which was destroyed by fire (it is said by the O’Mores) ; the present mansion was built on a different site in 1772 by Dudley Alexander Cosby, Lord Sydney of Leix and Baron of Stradbally, and in 1866 it was greatly enlarged and added to by the present owner, Colonel Robert G. Cosby, d.l.
Sir Arthur Vicars is of the opinion that a portion of the mansion shown in the illustration dates from the early eighteenth century.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 199

As the companion tells it

Stradbally in County Laois had an earlier Cosby house, destroyed by fire. It is said the O'Mores were responsible. The present mansion went up on a different site in 1772, built by Dudley Alexander Cosby, Lord Sydney of Leix and Baron of Stradbally. In 1866 it was greatly enlarged and added to by the owner, Colonel Robert G. Cosby. Sir Arthur Vicars held the opinion that a portion of the mansion shown in the illustration dates from the early eighteenth century.

Penal-times Mass-house at Rathangan built around 1700

Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1700–1731

The chapel of the Penal Times stood within what is now Lord Harberton's demesne wall, near the fifth canal bridge, with two venerable trees nearby studded with nails for posting notices; it was built about 1700 and recorded as standing for over thirty years by 1731.

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‘ ‘ The chapel of the Penal Times stood immediately within the wall that now encloses Lord Harberton’s demesne, at the part where the hffih canal bridge now stands. Two venerable trees, still there, stood in front of the chapel, and are studded with nails employed in posting notices upon them. This chapel was built about the year 1700, as we learn from the return made in November, 1731, in which it is stated that ‘the Masshouse of Rathangan, wherein the priest of Kildare officiates, has been built above thirty years.’ It is found marked on a map of the County Kildare published in 1752.
“The next chapel was on the site occupied by the present one. It appears to have been a very humble structure, and was replaced about the year 1826 by the existing church.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 108

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stood a chapel of the Penal Times. It was built about 1700, inside what is now Lord Harberton's demesne wall, near where the fifth canal bridge stands. Two old trees stood in front of it, studded with nails used for posting notices. A return made in November 1731 recorded that "the Masshouse of Rathangan, wherein the priest of Kildare officiates, has been built above thirty years." The chapel is marked on a map of the County Kildare published in 1752. The next chapel stood on the site of the present one. It was a humble structure, replaced about 1826 by the existing church.

Pole Cosby Pays Father's Debts and Reunites Household at Stradbally

Stradbally · town · Laois · 1729

After his father's death, Pole Cosby resolved to pay all his father's debts despite receiving no inheritance directly, settling £898 from his own pocket. In July 1729 he brought his mother and the furniture from Esker to live with him at Stradbally, which became overcrowded as a result.

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w* pleased her I consented to, and so a deed was got drawn by Mr. James Wills in Dublin & executed I think in July 1729. Long before this I had resolved that 'tho I did not get one doit by my F: I would pay every indevidual debt he owed, and before this I had paid a Good deal and gave out everywhere y* to whomsoever he owed anything they might come to me and I wo’d pay them, and so I did as fast as I co’d get money. His own debts altogether were, exclusive of the Bonds I joined him in, £898. 1. 8. his effects £928. 3. 6. which I apply to discharge so much of the Bond debts of £1180. and the remainder which is £554. 16. 6d. took on myself to pay without thinking it any Merit because I was bound as well as he for it, but his own Personal proper debt of £898. 1. 8. I paid wholely out of my own pocket, and had no reason but affection to his memory for paying nor coM not (any more than the Pope) be obliged to pay it, but so Good a Father as he was who left me a large and Plentifull estate wh he brought to be that, for if he had been as other men, I might not have been this day worth £500. per ann; wh* co’d I do less in Gratitude to him only 1 will suppose as a benefactor than give him some (By paying his debts) of what he had made himself, but my duty and affection to him as my Father if there had been no other consideration wo’d have obliged me to pay his debts y* he might not be reflected on by any souls being a sufferer by him. My Mother I knew (on his death) had rather live with me than keep house, and so I did persuade her to come and live with me in July 1729 and all the furniture of Esker was brought here so y* Stradbally was over furnish, for we had a good deal of our own before, my Mother kept her own Black coach and six, and Coachman, and Postilion and footman, and one maide but in 1732 she laid down her Coach, discharged Coachman and Postilion and took another maide my sister kept a man and a maid, and I slioed all the horses, and my mother gave me £150 per an. for all. We wanted roome much having so large a familly especially an appartment for my sister, so I this summer built her Bedchamber dressing roome and closet at ye back of my Mothers room. [I pulled this appartment down Jan. 1767.] I also Built this summer a Scullery and store roome, and over them, rooms for the maidservants and I made 6 rooms below in ye shed behind the big house for menservants, and I did floor them with boards, plaster and glaze them and they are mighty tite rooms. I also this year built ye Wash house and a new Dary and over them a long landry room. This summer my Mother in law Mrs. Bridges, Bro. and sisr Kenny, Bro. and sisr Browne came from Dublin and stay with us some time 3 weeks.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 130

As the companion tells it

Stradbally is a town the road passes through, and in 1729 it became a crowded household under one Pole Cosby. After his father's death, Cosby resolved to pay every debt his father owed, though he had inherited nothing directly. He had already been paying what he could, and he let it be known everywhere that anyone his father owed could come to him. His father's own personal debts came to 898 pounds, 1 shilling, and 8 pence, which he paid wholly out of his own pocket. He said he had no reason but affection for his father's memory, and called him so good a father who had left him a large and plentiful estate, worth about 500 pounds a year. He felt bound by duty and gratitude, so that no soul might say they suffered by him. In July 1729 he persuaded his mother to leave Esker and come live with him. All the furniture from Esker was brought to Stradbally, which became over-furnished, as they had a good deal of their own already. His mother kept her own black coach and six horses, a coachman, a postilion, a footman, and one maid. His sister kept a man and a maid. His mother gave him 150 pounds a year for all of it. They wanted room badly, so that summer he built his sister a bedchamber, dressing room, and closet behind his mother's room. He built a scullery and store room, with rooms above for the maidservants, and six rooms in the shed behind the big house for menservants, floored with boards, plastered and glazed. He also built a wash house, a new dairy, and a long laundry room above them. That same summer his mother-in-law Mrs. Bridges, Brother and Sister Kenny, and Brother and Sister Browne came from Dublin and stayed about three weeks.

Rathcoole named for Finn MacCumhall's father

Rathcoole · town · Dublin

Rathcoole, meaning Cumhall's Rath, is said to derive its name from the tradition that Finn MacCumhall's father once resided there; part of the original rath was said to survive on Mr. Love's farm at Airfield close to the village.

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Rathcoole (i.e., CumhalFs Rath) is said to derive its name from the fact that Finn MacCumhaH’s father once resided here ; and I am informed that portion of the identical rath may still be seen on Mr. Love’s farm at Airfield, close to the village,
Rathcoole is situated about eight miles south-west of the City of Dublin, in the Barony of Newcastle, and the ancient territory of “ Ui Dunchada.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 41

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Rathcoole, the name comes down from the tradition that Finn MacCumhall's father once lived here. The old rath that gave the place its name was said to survive in part on Mr. Love's farm at Airfield, close to the village.

Rebel Camp Pitched Near Blessington and Glenmalure

Blessington · town · Wicklow · 1580

The plunderers who joined James Eustace's rebellion pitched a camp on the confines of Slieveroe, near Blessington, and Glenmalure, from which they contested the entire region between the Slaney and Shannon.

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“ James Eustace, the son of Roland, son of Thomas (son of Richard), broke down his castles, after having embraced the Catholic faith, and renounced his Sovereign ; so that war and disturbance arose on the arrival of Arthur Lord Grey in Ireland as Lord Justice. The Kavanaghs, Kinsellaghs, O’Byrnes, O’Tooles, Gaval-Rannall (i.e. the O’Byrnes of Ranelagh), and the surviving part of the inhabitants of Offaly and Leix, flocked to the assistance of James Eustace ; so that the entire extent of country from the Slaney to the Shannon, and from the Boyne to the meeting of the Three Waters, became one scene of strife and dissension. These plunderers pitched a camp on the confines of Slieveroe (near Blessington) and Glenmalure.
“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.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 258

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Blessington, you are near the ground where rebel forces gathered in 1580. James Eustace, son of Roland, had broken down his own castles after renouncing his sovereign and embracing the Catholic faith. War and disturbance followed the arrival of Arthur Lord Grey as Lord Justice in Ireland. The Kavanaghs, the Kinsellaghs, the O'Byrnes, the O'Tooles, the O'Byrnes of Ranelagh, and survivors from Offaly and Leix all flocked to his assistance, so that the entire country from the Slaney to the Shannon, and from the Boyne to the meeting of the Three Waters, became one scene of strife. These plunderers pitched a camp on the confines of Slieveroe, near Blessington and Glenmalure. The Lord Justice and Captain Nicholas Malby assembled a force to scatter them. The insurgents, hearing of its approach, retreated into the rough and rugged recesses of Glenmalure. Grey sent his most trusted captains with eight or nine companies to search the valley, but the men guarding it cut them to pieces. Sir Peter Carew, Colonel John More, and Francis Cosby of Stradbally were slain, with many other gentlemen from England. When word reached him, the Lord Justice left his camp.

Rebellion Defence at Hacketstown

Hacketstown · parish · Wicklow · 1798

Hacketstown was the scene of heavy fighting during the 1798 rebellion. Protestants from the Glen of Imaal took refuge there and helped defend the house of the parish clergyman, Rev. Mr M'Ghee.

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Hacketstown was the scene of heavy fighting in the rebellion. The Protestants from the Glen of Imaal took refuge there, and helped to defend the house of the clergyman of the parish, the Rev. Mr M‘Ghee. I have been told that his house stood where the present Parish Priest’s house now stands, but that the house has been rebuilt since that time.
At the time of the tithe troubles a Mr. Philip Germaine, a Roman Catholic, held Lisnevagh. To avoid having cattle seized by the sheriff for tithe, he allowed his stock to be driven away by friends, so that nothing might be found on which to levy. It was said, however, that he was never able to get back all his herd, and that he would have been much less out of pocket if he had paid what was demanded in the first instance.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 210

As the companion tells it

Hacketstown parish saw heavy fighting in the rebellion of 1798. Protestants from the Glen of Imaal came here for refuge and helped defend the house of the parish clergyman, the Reverend Mr M'Ghee. His house stood where the present parish priest's house stands, though it has been rebuilt since that time. In later years, during the tithe troubles, a Mr Philip Germaine, a Roman Catholic, held Lisnevagh. To avoid having cattle seized by the sheriff for tithe, he let his stock be driven away by friends so nothing could be found to levy on. It was said he never got all his herd back, and would have been less out of pocket if he had paid what was demanded in the first place.

Rebellion of 1641 and loss of Punchestown by the Delahydes

Punchestown · townland · Kildare · 1628–1641

John Delahyde of Punchestown, a minor in 1628, is believed to have been implicated in the Rebellion of 1641, after which the Punchestown property passed out of his family's hands to Thomas Pigott and later to Sir Joshua Allen.

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The third son, Peter,1 died without issue on the 20th of November, 1625, leaving his sister-in-law, Margery Walsh, his executrix2 ; and Punchestown passed to his nephew and heir, Michael, eldest son of his brother, John Delahyde. Michael Delahyde, of Punchestown, married Ellinor, daughter of William Sutton, of Tipper, and dying on the 31st October, 1628, left a son and heir, John Delahyde, aged eight years, who, I believe, was implicated in the Rebellion of 1641, as from him the property changed hands, and passed to one Thomas Pigott ( vide “ The Book of Survey and Distribution”), who later on sold it to a Sir Joshua Allen, son of a famous architect of the city of Dublin, and the designer of Jigginstown House (often miscalled “ castle ”) near Naas, which was built by Sir Thomas Wentworth, Earl of Strafford, when Lord Lieutenant of Ireland in the reign of Charles I.
Sir Joshua, who was Sheriff of Dublin city in 1664, and its Mayor in 1673, was knighted in 1679 ; his death took place in

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 24

As the companion tells it

Close to Punchestown, the Delahyde family held land that slipped from their grasp within a generation. Peter Delahyde died on the 20th of November, 1625, without children, and the property passed to his nephew Michael, eldest son of John Delahyde. Michael married Ellinor, daughter of William Sutton of Tipper, and died on the 31st of October, 1628, leaving a son and heir, John Delahyde, just eight years old. That boy, John, is believed to have been implicated in the Rebellion of 1641. After that, the property changed hands. It passed to Thomas Pigott, recorded in the Book of Survey and Distribution. Pigott later sold it to Sir Joshua Allen, son of a famous Dublin architect who designed Jigginstown House near Naas. That house was built by Sir Thomas Wentworth, Earl of Strafford, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland in the reign of Charles I. Sir Joshua served as Sheriff of Dublin city in 1664 and as its Mayor in 1673, and was knighted in 1679.

St. Maelruain's Griddle and Loaf cross remnant

near Tallaght · town · Dublin

A small, rude granite cross with base and fractured shaft-stump at Tallaght is known locally as 'St. Maelruain's Griddle and Loaf'. His name has since been corrupted by locals to 'Moll Rooney', mistaking him for a female saint.

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small, rude, granite cross. The base and fractured shaft-stump are known as “ St. Maelruain’s Griddle and Loaf.”1
The Irish language has, unfortunately, been extinct for generations in the County Dublin and the rest of the Pale ; the consequence is that this Celtic saint’s name has been corrupted to “Moll Ptooney”; and one can imagine what would he the disgust of his mother, the Lady Brocseach, if she knew that her illustrious son is now regarded as a female saint by the natives of the locality.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 14

As the companion tells it

Tallaght has a small, rude granite cross whose base and fractured shaft-stump are known as "St. Maelruain's Griddle and Loaf." The Irish language has been extinct for generations in County Dublin and the rest of the Pale. The saint's name has been corrupted to "Moll Ptooney." His mother was the Lady Brocseach, and the record notes the disgust she would feel at knowing her illustrious son is now regarded as a female saint by the natives of the locality.

The Aldborough Mausoleum at Baltinglass Abbey

Baltinglass · town · Wicklow

The Mausoleum to the south of the Abbey at Baltinglass contains the remains of many of the Aldborough family, with the last interred there being Lady Elizabeth Stratford, while the late Earl was buried in Alicante, Spain.

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The Mausoleum to the south of the Abbey contains the remains of many of the Aldboroughs. The last interred there was Lady Elizabeth Stratford. The late Earl was interred in Aliconti, in Spain, where his ancestor, Robert, and his four brothers are buried. His father, Mason Gerrard, who demolished Belan, is buried in Italy, where he spent his declining years in Villa Messina, a residence provided for him by Professor Holloway, of Ointment and Pills fame, in return for a flattering testimonial his lordship gave to his medicines.
After this long digression, I return to Baltinglass.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 219

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Baltinglass in Wicklow, the Aldborough Mausoleum stands south of the Abbey here in the town. It holds the remains of many of the Aldborough family, the last being Lady Elizabeth Stratford. The late Earl, though, was buried in Alicante, Spain, where his ancestor Robert and his four brothers also lie. His father, Mason Gerrard, who demolished Belan, is buried in Italy, where he spent his later years at Villa Messina, a residence provided by Professor Holloway of ointment and pills fame, in return for a flattering testimonial.

The Thirty-Person Household of Old Bawn under the Commonwealth

near Old Bawn · minor feature · Wexford

A Commonwealth-era Survey of the Parish records the extensive household at Old Bawn, numbering thirty persons including the aged widow of Archbishop Bulkeley, the Archdeacon and his family, and numerous servants. The house was the only one of consequence in the parish, and the surrounding village of over 100 inhabitants included a smith, tailor, brogue-maker, carpenter, miller, carman and fowler.

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The household numbered no less than thirty persons : one wonders how they were all put up. It included the widow of Archbishop Bulkeley (then aged 83), the Archdeacon, who, we are told, was 53 years old, and a man of middle height and slender build, with brown hair and a grey beard ; his wife, who was tall and slender, with a long visage and brown hair ; her sister, Miss Mainwaring ; the Archdeacon’s son, then a youth of 17, attending Trinity College ; his daughters, his cousin-germain, Kowland Bulkeley, who was actively engaged in agriculture ; a cookmaid, a dairymaid, a porter, a brewer, an under-brewer, a cook-boy, a scullion-boy, two plough-drivers, a stable- or garrenkeeper, a horse-boy, a footman, and boys to tend the cows, swine, sheep, and lambs.
Besides this retinue, the family had in the village of Old Bawn (which contained over 100 inhabitants) many other retainers, including a steward, a gardener, and a sentry, or foreman.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 156

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Old Bawn, a Commonwealth survey recorded a household of no less than thirty persons. It was the only house of consequence in the parish. The widow of Archbishop Bulkeley lived there, aged 83. The Archdeacon was 53, a man of middle height and slender build, with brown hair and a grey beard. His wife was tall and slender, with a long visage and brown hair. Her sister, Miss Mainwaring, was there too. The Archdeacon's son, a youth of 17, was attending Trinity College. There were daughters, and his cousin-germain Kowland Bulkeley, who was actively engaged in agriculture. The servants included a cookmaid, a dairymaid, a porter, a brewer, an under-brewer, a cook-boy, a scullion-boy, two plough-drivers, a stable-keeper, a horse-boy, a footman, and boys to tend the cows, swine, sheep, and lambs. The village contained over 100 inhabitants, with more retainers: a steward, a gardener, and a sentry, or foreman.

The Wart-stone of Saggart Churchyard

Saggart · town · Dublin

At the east end of Saggart churchyard a stone holding water, known as the Wart-stone, was believed to cure warts. The caretaker described a ritual of dropping nine pins into the water and throwing a tenth over the left shoulder before applying the water to the wart.

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On the same occasion I examined the churchyard of Saggart, but found little of interest in it. The foundations alone of the old church are visible. At the east end of the churchyard, deep sunk in the ground, is a stone with a hollow in it, containing water ; this, from cures attributed to it, is known as “ the Wart-stone.” According to the caretaker of the churchyard, then a Mrs. O’Toole, the procedure necessary for effecting a cure is to bring ten pins, nine of which should be dropped into the water, and the tenth thrown over the left shoulder, after which the water should be applied to the wart.
NOTES.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 76

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Saggart, the churchyard holds little beyond the foundations of the old church. At its east end, deep sunk in the ground, is a stone with a hollow containing water, known as the Wart-stone for the cures attributed to it. Mrs. O'Toole, the caretaker, explained the procedure: bring ten pins, drop nine into the water, throw the tenth over the left shoulder, then apply the water to the wart.

Bringing home the bride to Stradbally with bonfires and dancers

Stradbally · town · Laois · 1728

On 1 May 1728 Pole Cosby brought his new wife home to Stradbally, where they were met at the bounds of the county by many gentlemen and Longdancers, with great joy and bonfires celebrating the occasion.

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Towards the latter end of March 1728 I did accompany my sister home & returned to Dublin in a few days, and now I began to buy chairs, tables, beds and all sorts of household stuff for Stradbally & by the 30th of April we had bought a good deal & so my wife & I left Dublin for Stradbally, we lay the first night Kilcullenbridge, and ye 1st of May 1728 I brought her to Stradbally, we were met at the Bounds of ye County by a great many gentlemen and others and Longdancers. And great joy there was, bonfires &c. my bringing home my wife, we lived this

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 122

As the companion tells it

The town of Stradbally saw a celebration on the first of May 1728. Pole Cosby brought his new wife home that day. He had spent the weeks before buying chairs, tables, beds, and all sorts of household stuff. They left Dublin and stayed the first night at Kilcullenbridge. The next day he brought her on. At the bounds of the county, a great many gentlemen and others met them, and Longdancers too. There was great joy and bonfires, all for his bringing home his wife.

Ballyfin passes to Wellesley-Pole and finally to the Coote family

Ballyfin · townland · Laois · 1781–1842

William Pole died without issue in 1781 and left Ballyfin to his cousin the Hon. William Wellesley, who took the name Pole and later became Earl of Mornington. The estate was eventually purchased by Sir Charles Henry Coote, ninth baronet.

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This last William Pole died without issue in 1781; and by his Will left Ballyfin to his third cousin, on his mother’s side (she was Anne, daughter of Henry Colley, of Castle Carbury, County Kildare), the Hon. William (Colley-) Wellesley, who thereupon assumed the name and arms of Pole. William Wellesley was the second son of Garrett, first Earl of Mornington ; in 1821 he was created Baron Maryborough, and on succeeding his elder brother, Bichard, in 1842, he became third Earl of Mornington (a place in Meath originally called Marinerstown).
From the Wellesley-Pole family Ballyfin was purchased by Sir Charles Henry Coote, ninth baronet, in whose family it still remains.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 112

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here at Ballyfin, an estate changed hands more than once. William Pole died without issue in 1781 and by his will left Ballyfin to his third cousin on his mother's side, the Hon. William Wellesley, who thereupon assumed the name and arms of Pole. William Wellesley was the second son of Garrett, first Earl of Mornington. In 1821 he was created Baron Maryborough, and on succeeding his elder brother in 1842, he became third Earl of Mornington. From the Wellesley-Pole family, Ballyfin was purchased by Sir Charles Henry Coote, ninth baronet, in whose family it still remains.

Belan House built by Edward Stratford, materials from Belan Castle

Belan · townland · Kildare · 1690–1700

Edward Stratford built Belan House towards the end of the 17th century, probably mainly out of materials of Belan Castle, which had become uninhabitable after the Rebellion of 1641 and the Jacobite Rising.

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was built Belan House towards the end of the seventeenth century, probably mainly out of the materials of Belan Castle, which evidently became uninhabitable after the Rebellion of 1641 and the subsequent Jacobite Rising ; this house in after years was added to, as an examination of the existing ruins plainly shows.
Edward Stratford was involved, as was his father, in the troubles of King James’s reign, but was very instrumental in establishing the House of Orange and the succession of the House of Hanover. He furnished William Ill’s army with 2,000 sheep and 200 oxen, entertained His Majesty at Belan, and maintained such of that King’s forces as were quartered near him with bread and beer, for which King James’s adherents threatened reprisals, plundered his Munster estates of their stock, and did other considerable damages. The then Commissioners, by order of King William, sent letters of acknowledgment for these aids, and a peerage is said to have been offered to Mr. Stratford, which, however, he declined.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 160

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stands what was once Belan House. Edward Stratford built it towards the end of the 1600s, probably mainly out of the materials of Belan Castle, which had become uninhabitable after the Rebellion of 1641 and the Jacobite Rising. The house was added to in later years, as the existing ruins plainly show. Edward Stratford and his father were both caught up in the troubles of King James's reign, but Edward worked to establish the House of Orange and the succession of the House of Hanover. He furnished William III's army with 2,000 sheep and 200 oxen, entertained His Majesty at his house, and maintained soldiers quartered near him with bread and beer. King James's adherents threatened reprisals, plundered his Munster estates of their stock, and did other considerable damage. The Commissioners, by order of King William, sent letters of acknowledgment for these aids. A peerage is said to have been offered to Mr. Stratford, which he declined.

Building of the Big House at Stradbally

Stradbally · town · Laois · 1699–1700

In 1699 Pole Cosby's father set up housekeeping at Stradbally and built the Big House, including the Hall, Big Staircase, and Big Parlour, with timber given by Grandfather Pole. He also planted hedges, enclosed the kitchen garden and orchard, and kept race horses despite his father-in-law's disapproval.

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1699. My father when he maryed my mother set up housekeeping at Stradbally and the year after he marryed he built the Big house that is the Hall, Big Staircase, and Big Parlour. My G-Fr. Pole gave him all the timber and 500 deal Boards to build it. He then planted a good many ditches and trees made the South hedge of ye avenue, enclosed ye kitchen garden and new orchard and set the hedges round ’em. He kept race horses which my G-Fr. Pole did not like and he gave him £100 on condition he wo’d never keep any more which he never strictly observed.
My eldest sister was born at Ballyfin, my sister Betty and I at Stradbally.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 54

As the companion tells it

Stradbally in Laois. In 1699, Pole Cosby's father married and set up housekeeping here. The year after his marriage he built the Big House: the Hall, the Big Staircase, and the Big Parlour. His wife's father, Grandfather Pole, gave him all the timber and 500 deal boards to build it. He planted ditches and trees, made the south hedge of the avenue, enclosed the kitchen garden and the new orchard, and set the hedges round them. He kept race horses. Grandfather Pole did not like that and gave him £100 on condition he would never keep any more, which he never strictly observed. His eldest sister was born at Ballyfin. His sister Betty and he himself were born at Stradbally.

Burial of Dominick Hewetson in Kildare Cathedral nave

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1640

Dominick Hewetson of Kildare died in 1640 and was buried in the nave of Kildare Cathedral, his body later dug up during the 1641 rebellion as recorded in his brother's affidavit.

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( c ) Dominick , of Kildare, Esq., who died in 1640, and was buried in Kildare Cathedral ; and whose body was dug up from the nave, as above mentioned.
(d) George Hewetson , or Here son, Esq., captain in the army of Charles I, and one of the 1649 officers ; he married Mary ,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 27

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare town, the cathedral here holds a grim story. Dominick Hewetson of Kildare died in 1640 and was buried in the nave of Kildare Cathedral. His body was later dug up during the 1641 rebellion, as recorded in his brother George's affidavit. George himself was a captain in the army of Charles I.

Cattle raid and assault at Rosnalvan Grange near Kilkea, 1299

Kilkea · parish · Kildare · 1299

In 1299 William Rys and Robert the chaplain of Dunmanoge, with Richard Drynan, took 29 oxen from the Grange of Rosnalvan (near Kilkea) belonging to Baltinglass Abbey, driving them to Dunmanoge and assaulting the monk who tried to rescue the cattle.

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1299. Brother Thomas Aspelon, monk of the Monastery of Balkinglas, and custos of the Grange of Rosnalvan (near Kilkea, County Kildare), which is of that Abbey, complains that William Rys and Robert the chaplain of Monnemehennok (now Dunmanoge, County Kildare), with Richard Drynan, on Thursday in Easter week, took from that Grange 29 oxen and drove them to Monnemehennok, and kept them there for five days until they were delivered to the Monk by the King’s marshal, by precept of the Justice : and that William caused some of the oxen to be yoked to his plough, and William and others assaulted with a hatchet and beat brother Thomas trying to rescue the cattle. William and Robert defend. They say that they took the cattle in name of distraint for suits of the Court of Adam de Staunton, whose provost William is ; and that they did no trespass they put themselves on the country. Brother Thomas likewise. Gilbert de Sutton, Sheriff of Kildare.
1302. Assize of Novel disseisin. If Robert Breynok and Richard Breynok disseised Simon, Abbot of Balkinglas, of his freehold (half an acre of turbary) in Inchebrisselan (now Gilltown, near Kilcullen Bridge), Robert as tenant answers that he holds certain tenements in Breynokeston (now Brannoxtown) to which common in said turbary belongs, and that all who held those tenements before were accustomed to have common in said turbary. The Abbot says that neither Robert nor any of his predecessors ever were accustomed to have common in the said turbary. The Jurors say that common of turbary never used to belong to the said tenement. Therefore let the said Abbot recover seisin and his damages.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 249

As the companion tells it

In 1299, the parish of Kilkea was the setting for a violent dispute over cattle belonging to Baltinglass Abbey. Brother Thomas Aspelon, a monk and the custos of the Grange of Rosnalvan, which belonged to that abbey, brought a complaint. He said that William Rys and Robert the chaplain of Dunmanoge, together with Richard Drynan, came on a Thursday in Easter week and took 29 oxen from the grange. They drove the animals to Dunmanoge and held them there for five days, until the King's marshal handed them back to the monk by order of the Justice. William had some of the oxen yoked to his own plough while they were in his keeping. When Brother Thomas went to rescue the cattle, William and others set on him with a hatchet and beat him. William and Robert defended themselves in court. They said they had taken the cattle in the name of distraint for suits in the court of Adam de Staunton, and that William was that court's provost. They said they committed no trespass, and put themselves on the country for judgment. Brother Thomas did the same. Gilbert de Sutton was the Sheriff of Kildare.

Centenarian Paupers at the Workhouse

Baltinglass · town · Wicklow

The workhouse recorded at least two centenarian inmates: a man named Death who died shortly after admission, and a woman named Mary Lodge who had reached the age of 112 at the time of writing.

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Among the paupers in the workhouse there have been at least two centenarians. One was a man of the name of Death, who went into the Union and died there after being an inmate for a short time only. There is at the present time an old woman there named Mary Lodge who has reached the age of 112.
A. soldier in Oliver Cromwell’s army was given a grant of land which reached from near Kiltegan to across the Slaney. Wishing to return to England, this soldier sold his grant to a blacksmith named Pendred, who used to work at his trade along the roadside. The Pendreds held some of this property until about fifty years ago, when the Pendred of that day sold the last of his property to the late Colonel Dennis, whose family had already, about the year 1817, acquired the part known as Fort Granite. Such is the tradition as given to me by John Magrath, an old man of ninety-five, living in Barraderry. An old edition of Burke’s “Landed Gentry” says the Pendreds were a family that went back to the time of William the Conqueror; that after losing their estates in

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 209

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Baltinglass in Wicklow, the old workhouse here had at least two centenarian inmates. One was a man named Death, who entered the Union and died there after only a short stay. At the time of writing, an old woman named Mary Lodge was still there, having reached 112 years of age. The land around these parts has its own story. A soldier in Oliver Cromwell's army was given a grant reaching from near Kiltegan across the Slaney. Wanting to go back to England, he sold the grant to a blacksmith named Pendred, who worked his trade along the roadside. The Pendreds held the property until about fifty years before the account, when the last of it was sold to Colonel Dennis. His family had already acquired the part known as Fort Granite around 1817. This tradition came from John Magrath, an old man of ninety-five living in Barraderry. Burke's Landed Gentry says the Pendreds went back to the time of William the Conqueror.

Constable Walter Russell organizes watch against O'Byrnes

near Tallaght · town · Dublin · 1356

In 1356 Walter Russell, Constable of Tallaght Castle, was instructed with Nicholas Beg to levy a rate on inhabitants between Newcastle-Lyons and Donnybrook to maintain a force watching passes into the Wicklow Mountains against O'Byrne incursions.

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In 1356 one Walter Russell was Constable of Tallaght Castle ; he, together with Nicholas Beg, a custodian of the Peace for the County Dublin, were instructed to levy a rate on the inhabitants dwelling between Novum Castrum de Lyons (i.e., Newcastle-Lyons) and Donabrock (now Donnybrook) for maintaining a force to watch the passes into the Wicklow Mountains, so as to give timely warning of an incursion by the O’Byrnes.2 By paying a black-rent to Hugh O’Toole, Thomas de Rokeby, Justiciary of Ireland, secured his services, and those of his brother, Shaun, with twenty horsemen and forty footmen, to protect the English marches, from Tallaght to Windgates, against invasion from the O’Byrnes.3
At the commencement of the fifteenth century the possessions of the Archbishops of Dublin consisted of the Manors of Swerdes (Swords), Lusk, Grlematlian (Clonmethan), Fynglass (Finglas), St. Sepulcre (near St. Patrick’s), Dorsenkiil, Senkyll (Sliankill), Dalkey, Clondolcan, Tavelagh (Tallaght), Rathcoule, Donnlovan (Dunlavin), and Castlekevin in the County Wicklow; and Ballymore-Eustace in the County Kildare.4

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

Tallaght was a border town in 1356. Walter Russell was Constable of Tallaght Castle that year, and together with Nicholas Beg, a custodian of the Peace for County Dublin, he was instructed to levy a rate on the inhabitants dwelling between Newcastle-Lyons and Donnybrook. The money was for maintaining a force to watch the passes into the Wicklow Mountains, so as to give timely warning of an incursion by the O'Byrnes. Thomas de Rokeby, Justiciary of Ireland, secured the services of Hugh O'Toole and his brother Shaun by paying a black-rent. Hugh brought twenty horsemen and forty footmen to protect the English marches from Tallaght to Windgates against invasion from the O'Byrnes. By the start of the fifteenth century the Archbishops of Dublin held manors across the region, including Swords, Lusk, Finglas, Dalkey, Tallaght, Rathcoule, Dunlavin, and Castlekevin in Wicklow, and Ballymore-Eustace in Kildare.

Danes surrender Clondalkin lands to Church of St. Machotus

near Clondalkin · town · Dublin · 1179

By 1179 the Danes had taken possession of Clondalkin abbey, and Pope Alexander confirmed Clondalkin to the See of Dublin; the old Dane and his wife who occupied the land surrendered their inheritance to the Church.

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In 1076 an army was led by the clergy, and forcibly expelled O’Ronan, who had usurped the abbey. From that time on, I believe, there is no record of the abbey ; and it was probably quite decayed at the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion. The Danes had certainly taken possession of it, for in 1179 Pope Alexander confirmed Clondalkin to the See of Dublin ; and the old Dane and his wife, who then occupied land in the place, surrendered all their inheritance to the Church of St. Machotus.
When Archbishop Henry, of London, founded and endowed the Deanery of St. Patrick’s, he assigned the Church of Clondalkin for its support, and also a portion of bog called the Dean’s Rath (corrupted into Dane’s Rath).

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 5

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Clondalkin, you are near a place with an old church story. By 1179 the Danes had taken possession of the abbey here, and Pope Alexander confirmed Clondalkin to the See of Dublin. The old Dane and his wife, who then occupied land in the place, surrendered all their inheritance to the Church of St. Machotus. Earlier, in 1076, an army led by the clergy had forcibly expelled O'Ronan, who had usurped the abbey, and it was probably quite decayed by the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion. Later, Archbishop Henry of London assigned the Church of Clondalkin to support the Deanery of St. Patrick's, along with a portion of bog called the Dean's Rath, which became corrupted into Dane's Rath.

Disfranchisement of Baltinglass Borough at the Union

Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1800

The borough of Baltinglass returned two members to the Irish Parliament until the Union, when it was disfranchised and £15,000 was awarded as compensation to the trustees of the Earl of Aldborough.

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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 you pass through Baltinglass in Wicklow, you are travelling through a town that once sent two members to the Irish Parliament. That ended with the Union in 1800, when the borough was disfranchised and £15,000 went as compensation to the trustees of the Earl of Aldborough. Before that, the Stratford family held the borough's patronage, and the feuding among the brothers Robert, Benjamin, and John Stratford was something to behold. Robert, the Earl of Aldborough, wanted a returning officer he could depend on, so he brought his sister, Lady Hannah Stratford, to the Corporation and proposed her for the role. A double return followed — a man acting for the brothers, a lady for the lord. It turned into a great battle. The honourable ladies got into the thick of it; some were well trounced, others gave as good as they received. The affair made a great uproar in Dublin, and informations were obtained against some of the ladies. The brothers kept the borough, and the earl never afterwards retrieved his loss. In 1797 he visited the commanding officer of a cavalry regiment arrived in that part of the country, announcing he came from his castle at Belan to offer his countenance and protection. The major, a rough Scot, replied that Major McPherson was always able to protect himself, and as for his countenance — well, the story cuts off there.

Family Plate Buried in the Cellar at Stradbally House

Stradbally · town · Laois · 1733

Before departing for England, the author and his house steward Will Holdbrooke buried about £160 worth of family plate in a large deal box in the cellar under the Big Stairs next to the Big Parlour at Stradbally. This was done for safekeeping rather than trusting it to a banker or neighbour.

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Samuel Burton of Burton Hall the Banker in Castle street Dublin broake the 23rd of June 1733. On my arrival at home I immediately set about settling my affairs. My good friend Lewis Moore of Cremorgan Esq. took on him to receive all my rents except a few and to pay interest and manage my whole affairs, and y* without fee or reward, and faithfully kindly and friendly he did it, I did after I came home make him some presents. W* rents (the rents of the poorer sort) y* he did not receive, I put into Will Holdbrooks hands my House Stuard, and I left him in my house to take care of it and to manage my demesne of Stradbally and Knocknecarroll. The Plate which I did not carry with me, about £160 worth I put into a large deal Box and Will Holdbrooke and I that night before we went of buryed it in the Sellar under the Big Stairs next to the Big Parlour, my reasons for hideing it in this manner was that perhaps had I intrusted it with anyone in ye country some accident might have happened to it, nor did I think it much securer had I left it with a banker in Dublin, and by hideing it under ground I was sure to find it as I left it save and unabated. On Monday ye 30th of July we set out for England from Stradbally and got to Dublin the 31st and stayd a few days to take leave of friends, and on Saturday the 4th of August 1733 we went abord, we had a good passage (thank God) we had the great cabbin to ourselves for ten guineas and late a Monday night ye 6th of August we landed at Parkgate and Tuesday we sent to Chester for a coach which came and did carry us to Chester y1 night, we stayd at Chester Wednseday and Thursday ye 8tli and 9th & Friday the 10th we went in a coach we hired for £3. 10. to Shrewesbury and that night hired a Wherry for £3. 10. to carry whom I pleased to Gloster and to bait when and where I pleased

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 174

As the companion tells it

In 1733, the town of Stradbally saw a man preparing to leave for England, and before he went, he took an unusual precaution with his family silver. Samuel Burton of Burton Hall, a banker in Castle Street Dublin, had broken on the 23rd of June 1733. On arriving home, the author set about settling his affairs. His good friend Lewis Moore of Cremorgan took on the receiving of all his rents and the management of his whole affairs, without fee or reward, and did it faithfully and kindly. The rents of the poorer sort that Moore did not receive, the author put into the hands of Will Holdbrooke, his house steward. He left Holdbrooke in the house to take care of it and to manage the demesne of Stradbally and Knocknecarroll. The plate he did not carry with him, about £160 worth, he put into a large deal box. The night before they left, he and Will Holdbrooke buried it in the cellar under the Big Stairs next to the Big Parlour. His reasons for hiding it in this manner were that perhaps had he entrusted it with anyone in the country, some accident might have happened to it, nor did he think it much securer had he left it with a banker in Dublin. By hiding it underground he was sure to find it as he left it, safe and unabated. On Monday the 30th of July they set out for England and got to Dublin the 31st, staying a few days to take leave of friends. On Saturday the 4th of August 1733 they went aboard, had a good passage, and the great cabin to themselves for ten guineas. Late on Monday night the 6th of August they landed at Parkgate.

GillaPatrick O'More outlawed for rebellion

Stradbally · town · Laois · 1549

About 1549 GillaPatrick O'More was outlawed for rebellion, and his estates, including at Stradbally, became forfeited to the Crown.

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Rory “ caech ” was slain by his brother, GillaPatrick, at “ Killnesperokye,” in Leix, about 1545, and the latter assumed the chieftainship of the clan. About 1549 GillaPatrick O’More was outlawed for rebellion, and his estates became forfeited to the Crown.
In 1550 a Fiant of Edward VI (No. 699) records a lease for twenty-one years to a faithful servant of the Crown, Thomas Jacob, of “the Manor of Stradbally, the lands of Nowaghwale (Oughaval), Stradbally, on the other side of the bridge of Stradbally ; a ruined house, part of the church, with certain thatched houses therein, called the late Friary of Stradbally, the lands and other appurtenances belonging to the said house,” &c., parcels of the possessions of (Gilla) Patrick O’More attainted.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk05coun, Chapter 199

As the companion tells it

The road passes near Stradbally, a town in Laois. About 1545, Rory, called caech, was slain by his brother GillaPatrick at Killnesperokye in Leix, and GillaPatrick took the chieftainship of the clan. About 1549, GillaPatrick O'More was outlawed for rebellion, and his estates became forfeited to the Crown. In 1550, a lease under Edward VI granted the Manor of Stradbally to Thomas Jacob, a faithful servant of the Crown, for 21 years. The lease covered the lands of Nowaghwale, Stradbally on the other side of the bridge, a ruined house, part of the church, and thatched houses called the late Friary of Stradbally. All were parcels of the possessions of GillaPatrick O'More, attainted.

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

The stories, best first

Discovery of Cinerary Urn at Gurteen near Castledermot

D'Israell's Charitable Bequest for Bough School near Rathvilly

Earl of Aldborough's Visit to Cavalry Officer at Belan

Henry VIII grants Stradbally and Abbeyleix abbeys to Rory caech

Irish inhabitants of Clondalkin and English law privilege

Landscape improvements at Stradbally demesne

O'Byrnes and O'Tooles invade Rathcoole and Tassagard

O'Ronan expelled from Clondalkin Abbey by armed clergy

Patrick Hewetson, M.D. of Betaghstown, physician and College President

Quaker settlers transform Ballitore into a garden village

Rathangan burned by Irish forces in 1300

Rathangan Castle accused as resort of rebels in 1575 treason case

Rebellion of 1641 Devastates Old Bawn and Dunlavin

Saggart pillaged and burned in 1641 rebellion

Thomas FitzGerald of Belan implicated in 1641 Rebellion, lands forfeited

Whiteboys drilling at night near Belan

William Lewis marries into the Keatinge family of Narraghmore

Overnight stay at Quaker Cooper's house at Sragh

Rebellion Losses at Dunlavin, 1641

Archbishop Bicknor builds Tallaght Castle

Archbishop Bulkeley builds Old Bawn House in 1635

Archbishop's 1289 campaign against rebels via Baltinglass

Baltinglass Abbey and Town Burnt During Rebellion

Ceremonial homecoming at Blackford on the bounds of Queen's County

Clondalkin founded as Dun-Auley, fortress of Aulaff the Dane

Confederate order against Thomas FitzGerald of Belan for war funds

Daniel Byrne the Tailor Purchases the Lordships of Timoge and Tully

Demolition of Tallaght Palace and Hoadly's chimney-piece moved to Tubbrid

Dr. Owen O'Shiell Residing at Woodstock Castle During Civil War

Duke of Tyrconnell Dies in Limerick Without Male Issue

Earl of Ossory Captures Carlow, Athy, and Woodstock

Edward Bruce's march through Rathangan, 1315

Fatal Jaunting Car Accident Commemorated at Rathcoole

Foundation of monastery at Saggart by St. Mosacra

Lullymore and Lullybeg conjectured as ancient Erie and Alba

Monastic Valuables Thrown Down a Well at Tullow

Mr. Douglas the seneschal of Stradbally, a 103-year-old Scotsman

Original Cosby mansion at Stradbally destroyed by fire, said by the O'Mores

Penal-times Mass-house at Rathangan built around 1700

Pole Cosby Pays Father's Debts and Reunites Household at Stradbally

Rathcoole named for Finn MacCumhall's father

Rebel Camp Pitched Near Blessington and Glenmalure

Rebellion Defence at Hacketstown

Rebellion of 1641 and loss of Punchestown by the Delahydes

St. Maelruain's Griddle and Loaf cross remnant

The Aldborough Mausoleum at Baltinglass Abbey

The Thirty-Person Household of Old Bawn under the Commonwealth

The Wart-stone of Saggart Churchyard

Bringing home the bride to Stradbally with bonfires and dancers

Ballyfin passes to Wellesley-Pole and finally to the Coote family

Belan House built by Edward Stratford, materials from Belan Castle

Building of the Big House at Stradbally

Burial of Dominick Hewetson in Kildare Cathedral nave

Cattle raid and assault at Rosnalvan Grange near Kilkea, 1299

Centenarian Paupers at the Workhouse

Constable Walter Russell organizes watch against O'Byrnes

Danes surrender Clondalkin lands to Church of St. Machotus

Disfranchisement of Baltinglass Borough at the Union

Family Plate Buried in the Cellar at Stradbally House

GillaPatrick O'More outlawed for rebellion