Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (vol. 6)

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

1. Essex's army camps at Ballyknockan near Maryborough

   Ballyknockan · townland · Laois · 1599

   On the 16th of May the Lord Lieutenant directed the army to Ballyknockan, two miles from the Fort of Maryborough, towards the mountains of Sleaghnegree, while he brought a convoy of victuals to reinforce the Fort.

   Read the passage

   “ The 16th, the Lord Lieutenant, after a short march (from Stradbally) directed the army to Ballyknockan, two miles wide of the Fort of Maryborough, towards the mountains of Sleaghnegree, going himself with the convoy of victuals, attended on with 2U0 horse and 500 foot, which he carried to place in the Fort. By the way he sent 50 of those horse and 300 foot to a castle of Terence O’Dempsey (of Ballybrittas), Chief of that Name, where remained two or three prisoners, taken by the said Terence, who was commanded to go along with those troops and to bring the

   1 “ Cal. of State Papers,” 1598-9, p. 461. 2 lb., 1599-1600, pp. 37-40.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 51

2. Founding of Franciscan Monastery of Leix (Stradbally)

   Stradbally · town · Laois · 1447

   In 1447 the Monastery of Leix in the diocese of Leighlin was founded in honour of St Francis by O'More, who chose it as a burial place for himself and his descendants; Father Carrigan identifies this with the monastery at Stradbally.

   Read the passage

   1447. The Monastery of Leix in Leinster, in the diocese of Leighlin, was founded, in honour of St. Francis, by O’More, who selected a burial-place for himself and his descendants in it.

   [Father Carrigan identifies this monastery with the one at Stradbally ; and states that O’More, Chief of his Name, was probably Kedagh O’More.]

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 25

3. Glen between Clonbur and Maum reputed for lawlessness

   near Clonbur · population centre · Galway

   While driving on a car between Clonbur and Maum in County Galway, the author passed a glen with a bad reputation for lawlessness, and the driver described its inhabitants as 'cannibals,' apparently meaning savages.

   Read the passage

   Though the Connaught man does not mix up the two languages, yet he sometimes uses English words in a peculiar way. For instance, one man told me he was very fearful when passing a place supposed to be haunted. Again, when at Dun Angus, on Inislimore, one of the Isles of Aran, seated on the cliffs by the side of a pampootied islander, who was fishing, I was looking through my field-glasses at a “ pookawn ” sailing in the distance ; presently he asked me for the loan of my looking-glass . On another occasion I was being driven on a car between Clonbur and Maum in the county Galway, and when passing a glen, which had got a bad name for lawlessness, the driver informed me that the inhabitants of it were cannibals (savages, I suppose, he meant). Misnomers of this sort are of course due to a limited acquaintance with the English language.

   It is more or less the general opinion that the peasantry pronounce all e sounds as ay ; and so one frequently sees in “ Punch ” and some Irish novels such words as indeed written indade , and praste for priest ; in the ~me way, Oi for I, and toime for time, are

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 327

4. Hollywood associated with St. Kevin's church, bed, chair, cave and holy well

   Hollywood · parish · Wicklow

   At Hollywood, County Wicklow, Lord Walter FitzGerald read a paper on 'de Sancto Bosco' pointing out spots associated with St. Kevin, patron saint of the place, including his bed, chair, cave, and blessed well, with the original church site now occupied by the Protestant church.

   Read the passage

   On reaching Hollywood the party dismounted and entered a small field, at the entrance to a little rocky glen, Here a Paper on “ de Sancto Bosco,” alias Hollywood, was read, by Lord Walter FitzGerald, who pointed out spots associated with St. Kevin, the patron saint of the place and of Glendalough, whose original church stood where the Protestant church now is, and whose bed, chair, cave, and blessed Well are well known in the locality. r

   Fr )m Hollywood the drive to Poulaphooka led past Hollywood Demesne, formerly called Tyrone Lodge, belonging to the Marquis of Waterford; the mansion was burned down in 1798, and never rebuilt.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 175

5. Judges Fear to Travel to Law Courts at Carlow

   Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1375–1377

   The country around Carlow was so disturbed that Judges and Crown officials dared not venture towards the Law Courts there, though the Chief Baron Sir Robert Holywode attempted to defend portions of the district with soldiery.

   Read the passage

   At this time the country was so disturbed that the Judges and officials of the Crown dared not venture towards the Law Courts at Carlow, though the Chief Baron, Sir Robert Holywode, with a body of soldiery, essayed to defend portions of this district.6

   In 1377 it was found expedient by the Crown, who had failed to subdue the native septs along the marches of the Pale, to pay “black-rent” to some of the Chiefs, as a bribe to keep quiet. Art mac Art MacMurrough, now Chief of the Kavanaghs, enforced a fee of eighty marks a year to be paid to him, and Geoffrey de Valle (above-mentioned), Sheriff of Carlow, was allowed twenty pounds to enable him to pay MacMurrough twice that sum demanded by the latter as an eric or compensation for the death of his brother Donough Kavanagh.7

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 220

6. Kildare town's ancient status and Geraldine seat

   Kildare · town · Kildare · 1682

   Kildare is described as one of the most ancient bishops' seats in the Kingdom, giving title to the Earls of Kildare of the Geraldine family, whose ruined ancestral house at Maynooth bore an undefaced inscription and had been repaired in the time of the fifteenth Earl.

   Read the passage

   Townes Corporate are : — (1) Kildare one of the most ancient Bishopps Seas in the Kingdom, and furnishing Tytle to the eldest house of the Geraldines or ffitzGeralds, for a numerous decent the Right Honorable John Earle of Kildare at present beinge primeir Earle of Ireland, and the seventeenth of the male line, which appeares by an inscription remaininge undefaced over the Doare of his antient though ruin’d house of Maynooth, repair'd in the time of George the fifteenth Earle ; grand father of the present Earle ; A family that hath flourished for some hundreds of yeares in this country, whoe as early as the Conquest planted themselves in this soyle and soe prospered under the sunshine of Royall favour the ordinary effects of approved Loyalty, that they did not only possess the greatest part of this tract conteyned with in the Counties of Meath, Kildare and Catherloe, but a great part of Munster, particularly Lymrick and the countries adjoyneinge, in the centre whereof there is an aintient pile of the Earles called Crom whence the Earles motto, Crom a boe, of which there are various interpritations, but the most probable is, that it was taken up as a watch word by some

   342

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 233

   As the companion tells it

   Kildare town carries one of the most ancient bishops' seats in the kingdom, and it gives title to the Earls of Kildare, the eldest house of the Geraldines. In 1682 the Earl was John, seventeenth of the male line and premier Earl of Ireland. His family had flourished for hundreds of years in this country, planting themselves here as early as the Conquest and prospering under royal favour for their loyalty. They came to hold the greatest part of this tract across the counties of Meath, Kildare and Catherloe, and a great part of Munster, particularly Limerick and the countries adjoining. Their ancient though ruined house at Maynooth bore an inscription remaining undefaced over the door, repaired in the time of George the fifteenth Earl, grandfather of the present Earl. In the centre of their Munster lands stood an ancient pile called Crom, from which the Earls' motto comes: "Crom a boe," likely taken up as a watchword by some ancestor long ago.

7. Kilmainham as principal seat of the Hospitallers in Ireland

   Kilmainham · townland · Dublin

   Kilmainham served as the principal seat of the Knights Hospitallers in Ireland, acting as the central house through which preceptories elsewhere in the country were organized and to which revenues flowed.

   Read the passage

   The principal seat of the Hospitallers in Ireland was at Kilmainham. But there were preceptories or commanderies in different parts of the country where resided Knights or Preceptors, as they were called, in direct connexion with the organization elsewhere through that centre. These preceptories had estates and revenue of considerable extent. I11 the County Limerick one commandery had something like thirteen estates, and income drawn from twenty-five rectories. In Kildare the priory owned the churches of Kathmore, Slierlockstown, Killibegs, Bally Derrnot or Castle Dermot, Calvestown, Davystown, Rathsilly, Fontstown, Laystown, with their chapels, tithes, and obventions for the sustenance of pilgrims and the necessities of the poor. In return they paid 10 lb. of wax yearly to Christ Church, Dublin.

   There were preceptories in Dublin, Carlow, Cork, Down, Galway, Kildare, Limerick, Louth, Meath, Roscommon, Sligo, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford — fourteen counties. Many of these had extensive estates granted by the king or by private benefactors. This number was increased after the Order was enriched by the estates of the Templars.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 79

8. Maryborough and Dangan (Philipstown) forts built

   Maryborough · townland · Laois · 1548

   In 1548, after O'Conor and O'More went to England at the King's mercy, their patrimonial inheritances of Offaly and Leix were given to the Lieutenant and his kinsmen, who built two large forts, the Campa (now Maryborough) in Leix and Dangan (now Philipstown) in Offaly.

   Read the passage

   the revolt continued, and “an irruption was made by O’ More (Gillapatrick) and the sons of Cahir O’Conor into the County of Kildare, and they burned and plundered the greater part of the territory of the Eustaces (comprising most of the Baronies of North and South Naas). They remained in that country until the Lord Justice overtook them. These Irish were defeated on this occasion, with the loss of two hundred foot soldiers. . . . O’More and O’Conor went over to the English to make submission to them upon their own terms, under the protection of an English gentleman (Lieutenant Francis Bryan). This, however, was a bad protection.” . . . “1548. O’Conor and O’More went to England with the Lieutenant, at the King’s mercy. The King, however, gave their patrimonial inheritances, namely, Offaly and Leix, to the Lieutenant and his kinsmen, who built two large courts (or forts) in these territories, namely, the Campa (now Maryborough) in Leix, and Dangan (now Philipstown) in Offaly ; and they proceeded to let these at rents to the English and Irish, as if they were their own lawful patrimonial inheritances, after having banished and expelled their own rightful, original inheritors. O’Conor and O’More, from thence, with all their adherents and descendants.” . . . “ O’More (Gillapatrick) died suddenly in England, and he would have been a lamentable loss, were it not for the power of the English.”

   Gillapatrick O’More was succeeded in the chieftainship of the clan by his brother Connell “ oge.’’

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 31

9. Monasterevin's mansion, park and eleven-county prospect

   Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 1682

   Monasterevin is described as a well-frequented road town on the river Barrow, seat of Viscount Loftus of Ely who kept a large mansion house and park there, from a nearby hill of which eleven counties could be viewed.

   Read the passage

   The chiefe markett Townes are (1) Kilcock standinge on the great road to Conaught. (2) Maynooth where is to be seen the remaines of an antient pile venerable in its ruins, and which did partake of the hottest and fearcest of a revengfull Enemie in the last Rebellion. (8) MonasterEven a noted and well frequented Road into Munster and into Conaght by Bannagher and Portomney Bridges, pleasantly scituated upon the river Barrow over which there is a bridge, it belongetli to the Right Honorable Arthur Lord Viscount Loftus of Ely wlioe hath here a large mancionhouse and Park adjoyning seated on the river bank amongst meades and groves ; by an easie assent you mount an hill from whence you have at one view the prospect of eleven Counties. (4) Castle Dermot, or Tristledermot, now a small markett Towne formerly capable to receive Parliaments hither summonzd in. (5) Rathangan. (6) Clane giveing Tytle and being the inherrittance of the Right Honorable John Lord Viscount Dungan of Clane. There are noe new buildings or improvements to be found in this and the other adjacent counties to Dublin proporconable in any respect to the rest of the Kingdome for that these Counties when the rest of Ireland were distributed and apporcond out to Adventurers and Soldiers were kept in the Usurpers and State hands as beinge next under their Eye, and out of which contributions were easilier rais’d, and for the same reason the Inhabbitants are thiner and especially of English whoe repair’d, satt downe, and planted where their lotts fell, wherefore to say somewhat superficially of the people of this Trackt.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 235

   As the companion tells it

   You are coming through Monasterevin, a town on the river Barrow. In 1682 it was described as a noted and well-frequented road into Munster and Connaught, with a bridge over the river. It belonged to Arthur, Lord Viscount Loftus of Ely, who kept a large mansion house and park here, seated on the river bank among meadows and groves. By an easy ascent you could mount a hill from which eleven counties could be seen at one view. The description notes that no new buildings or improvements were to be found in this and the adjacent counties to Dublin, proportionate to the rest of the kingdom, because when the rest of Ireland was distributed to adventurers and soldiers, these counties were kept in the hands of the state, being nearest under their eye and from which contributions were more easily raised. For the same reason, the inhabitants were thinner, especially of English, who settled where their lots fell.

10. Mortimer rebuilds Dunamase and builds satellite castles

    Park or Dunamase · townland · Laois · 1344

    After defeating the O'Mores, Lord Roger de Mortimer resumed possession of Dunamase, strengthened it, and built the castles of Shaen, Morett, Ballymanus, and five others garrisoned to repel insurrection.

    Read the passage

    Two years after the death of Lysagh the O’Mores were defeated and dispossessed by Lord Roger de Mortimer, who resumed possession of Dunamase. He then added greatly to its strength, and established a tenantry of soldiers around him for protection. He built the castles of Shaen, Morett, Bally - manus, and five others, and kept them always garrisoned to repel insurrection, as they were adjacent to and subject to Dunamase. He made it his chief residence, and, administering

    Remains oe the Gateway into the outer Bawn.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 126

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Park or Dunamase stand the remains of Dunamase, which Lord Roger de Mortimer took back in 1344 after defeating the O'Mores. He strengthened the castle, built the castles of Shaen, Morett, and Ballymanus along with five others, and kept them always garrisoned to repel insurrection. He settled soldiers around him for protection and made Dunamase his chief residence.

11. O'Mores descend from Conall Cearnach, ruled from Dunamase

    Park or Dunamase · townland · Laois

    The Red Branch Knights under Conall Cearnach conquered Leinster forces and settled in Leix, dividing it into seven tribe-lands under an arch-king called the Righ. The O'Mores of Leix descended from this line, with one ruling as high-king from Dunamase.

    Read the passage

    About the time of the Christian era there flourished in Ulster a renowned hero of the Bed Branch Knights, called Conall Cearnach. He was leader of Conor Mac Nessa’s army, and he conducted the war against King Oilioll and Queen Meave of Connaught. The Red Branch Knights waged war against the men of Leinster to enforce the payment of the Burumean tribute, and defeated them at the battle of Ros-na-Righ (Rossnaree), and in several other battles, with the result that they finally settled down in the territory of Leix, which they divided into seven tribe-lands, under the government of seven subordinate and petty chiefs. This Celtic heptarchy was subject in turn to the jurisdiction of an arch-king, called the Righ, who claimed descent from the renowned Conall Cearnach abovementioned. His descendants were the O’Mores of Leix, and one of this sept ruled as high-king, or ard-righ, over Leix, having his chief residence at Dunamase.

    There is a legend that St. Patrick passed by or near Dunamase, on his way from Tara to Munster ; and it is related that he found the king and his people engaged erecting a fort, called the fort of Rath Bacain, and that they had its foundations

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here at Dunamase, the O'Mores of Leix had their chief residence, and one of their sept ruled as high king over Leix. The story begins about the time of the Christian era, when a hero of the Red Branch Knights called Conall Cearnach led Conor Mac Nessa's army in war against King Oilioll and Queen Meave of Connaught. The Red Branch Knights waged war against the men of Leinster to enforce payment of the Burumean tribute, and defeated them at the battle of Ros-na-Righ and in several other battles. They settled in Leix and divided it into seven tribe-lands under seven subordinate chiefs. This Celtic heptarchy was subject to an arch-king called the Righ, who claimed descent from Conall Cearnach. His descendants were the O'Mores of Leix. There is a legend that Saint Patrick passed by or near Dunamase on his way from Tara to Munster, and found the king and his people erecting a fort called the fort of Rath Bacain, with its foundations being laid.

12. Owen Roe O'Neill outmanoeuvres Jones and Monk near Clonmel

    Clonmel · town · Tipperary · 1647

    After Dungan Hill, O'Neill marched to relieve the Siege of Clonmel, causing Inchiquin to withdraw. O'Neill later outmanoeuvred combined forces of Jones and Monk, remaining undisputed master of Leinster.

    Read the passage

    The victory seemed certainly to promise far-reaching results. The line of Preston’s garrisons from Maynooth to Carlow was abandoned, and the country from Dublin to the seat of the Confederate Government at Kilkenny, and from Kilkenny to Clonmel, was open to the advance of the victorious army of the Parliament. Lord Inchiquin at once pushed forward to beleaguer Clonmel, confident that he would there be joined by Jones, and carry all Munster before him. But it was impossible to follow up the victory on the spot. The English and Scotch troops from Ulster had bargained for only ten days’ service, and as Jones had no money to pay for more at the time, they marched off to their quarters in the North. In the meanwhile the Council of Kilkenny sent urgent messages to Boyle, informing O’Neill of their desperate condition, and commanding him to move to their relief. Sensible though he was of their sinister attitude towards him, he considered that as a soldier he was bound to obey, and he was soon on his way southward to relieve Clonmel. No attempt was made to intercept him. On his approach Jones kept close within the walls of Dublin, and Inchiquin immediately raised the Siege of Clonmel. “ O’Neill,” says Carte, “ laughed at Preston for being drawn into an engagement, and resolved not to be drawn into the same error himself, declaring that if all the forces of England were there they should not make him fight but when

    1 Aph. Disc., i, 156.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 301

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming to Clonmel, a town in Tipperary. In 1647, Lord Inchiquin pushed forward to besiege Clonmel, confident he would be joined there by Jones and carry all Munster before him. But Inchiquin could not follow up his advantage. The English and Scotch troops from Ulster had bargained for only 10 days' service, and Jones had no money to pay for more, so those troops marched off to their quarters in the North. The Council of Kilkenny then sent urgent messages to O'Neill, informing him of their desperate condition and commanding him to move to their relief. O'Neill was sensible of their sinister attitude towards him, but he considered that as a soldier he was bound to obey, and he was soon on his way southward. No attempt was made to intercept him. On his approach, Jones kept close within the walls of Dublin, and Inchiquin immediately raised the siege of Clonmel. Carte records O'Neill's words: he laughed at Preston for being drawn into an engagement, and resolved not to be drawn into the same error himself, declaring that if all the forces of England were there they should not make him fight but when he pleased.

13. Rebels encamp at Farranaprior (Timahoe) before spoiling the country

    Timahoe · townland · Laois · 1597

    Tyrrell and Owny mac Rory, with at least 400 fighting men, encamped first in Slyemarge, then near Fearne Priory (Farranaprior, alias Timahoe), taking the whole spoil of the country wherever they lay.

    Read the passage

    instant. Tirrell and Ownie mac Rory, accompanied by at least 400 fighting men, came into Leix, and encamped first in Slyemarge, then near Fearne Priory (i.e. Farranaprior, alias Timahoe), and so the third day, taking the whole spoil of the country in every place where they lay. Hearing this, and that their determination was to pass through with the like spoil of the country, he (Sir Warham) sent a despatch to the soldiers of Athy, and himself assembled the force of this side of the country, but was answered only by Terence O’Dempsey (of Ballybrittas, afterwards created Viscount Clanmaliere). Meantime his Lieutenant drew out of the Fort (of Maryborough) with the two companies, near to the Sheriffs town, where Captain Hovenden lay sick. Finally divers messages passing betwixt them, a matter purposed by Tirrell, and not well considered by our leaders, they fell together by the ears and both our companies are utterly defeated. My Lieutenant is only escaped, with I think some 20 ; others of no mark. My self was come within a mile of the place before this happened, and had sent to them a man or two of mine, to hold a speech till I had come ; one of which they slew, the other they took prisoner, after which they went and burned the town of Maryborough, and lay about the Fort with many menaces to force it, in which was a most slender ward ; so removing a little further the next day they put ladders a making, which I understanding, with those few I had, for your Lordship must understand that not a man of the country nor borders came to me but Terence O’Dempsey and Robert Whitney (of Shaen), I went to the Fort, and put in my Lieutenant with as many as I had left. They returned me my man that they took, and told me that my soldiers had broken the peace, and yet if I would grant them protection for twelve days, they would be sworn to do no further hurt, till they should hear from the North. I answered that I would not grant any protection to them, but 'was contented to promise them to seek no revenge till your Lordships return, or till your pleasure were signified.”1

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 47

14. Robert Rochford's forfeiture after 1641 Rebellion

    Castledillon · parish · Kildare · 1641

    Robert Rochford, heir to Castledillon after his elder brother Christopher's death, was implicated in the Rebellion of 1641 and forfeited his estate as a result.

    Read the passage

    John Rochford’s eldest son, Christopher, died during his father’s lifetime, on March 4th, 1630, so that his second son, Robert Rochford, became his heir ;4 the latter was implicated in the Rebellion of 1641, and forfeited his estate.

    Of the Rochford Castle, at Castledillon, one small fragment alone remains ; it consists of one ivy-clad angle of the building, with a projecting external chimney running up the wall from a fireplace on the first floor ; it stands near the boreen, two fields to the south-west of the churchyard about to be described.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 143

15. Round Tower notice for Timahoe

    Timahoe · townland · Laois

    An editorial note explains Timahoe was founded by St Mochua, venerated on 24 December, and that the only Round Tower now existing in the Queen's County stands there.

    Read the passage

    [Timahoe is situated in the Barony of Cullenagh. It was founded by St. Mochua, who was venerated on the 24th of December ; the only Bound Tower now existing in the Queen’s County stands here. The O’Dowlings were one of the seven septs of Leix.]

    1041. Gleann Uisean (now Killeshin, Barony of Slieve Margy) was plundered by the son of Mael-na-mbo (i.e., by Dermot mac Donough), lord of Hy Kinsellagh (a district which comprised the County Wexford, part of County Wicklow, and the northern portion of the

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 20

16. Shanid Castle and the War-Cry Shanet-a-boo

    Shanid · electoral division · Limerick

    The Munster FitzGeralds took their war-cry Shanet-a-boo from their lordship of Shanid in County Limerick. Some remains of their castle still stand there, built upon an artificial moat or mound.

    Read the passage

    The Munster FitzGeralds had “ Shanet-a-boo ” for their war-cry. This originated in their lordship of Shanid, also in the County Limerick. There are still some remains of their castle there, which stands on an artificial moat or mound.

    At the present time the motto of the Knight of Kerry (Sir Maurice FitzGerald) is “ Mullachar-a-boo.”1 2

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 322

17. Sir Henry Coote Parnell cuts down trees at Dunamase

    Park or Dunamase · townland · Laois · 1812

    Sir John Parnell had received the Dublin Society's premium for planting trees at Dunamase, but these were later cut down by his son Sir Henry Coote Parnell, who succeeded his father in 1812, disfiguring the picturesque appearance of the ruin.

    Read the passage

    Sir John received the Dublin Society’s premium for planting the trees ; but these were afterwards cut down by his son, Sir Henry Coote Parnell, who succeeded his father in 1812. Sir Henry wrote a History of the Penal Laws, &c. ; was M.P. for the Queen’s County in the Imperial Parliament, and was a member of the Government in both Lord Grey’s and the Melbourne administrations. His cutting down the trees was a great disfigurement to the picturesque appearance of the ancient fortress.

    In conclusion, I beg to express my acknowledgments and thanks for the kind help received from Lord Walter FitzGerald in preparing this Paper.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Park or Dunamase, there's a story about trees that once stood at Dunamase. Sir John Parnell received the Dublin Society's premium for planting them. But his son, Sir Henry Coote Parnell, who succeeded his father in 1812, cut them down. Sir Henry was Member of Parliament for the Queen's County in the Imperial Parliament, and served in the governments of both Lord Grey and Lord Melbourne. He also wrote a History of the Penal Laws. His cutting down the trees was a great disfigurement to the picturesque appearance of the ancient fortress.

18. Site and history of Stagonnel church, alias Tempul-Becan

    Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow · 1181–1212

    The parish now called Powerscourt was formerly named Stagonnel (Tigh Chonaill), one of thirteen prebendal churches appropriated to St. Patrick's Cathedral by Archbishop John Comyn; its church, also called Tempul-Becan, stood by the approach to Powerscourt House and was used as a Protestant church until a new one was built nearer Enniskerry.

    Read the passage

    The site of the Church of Stagonnel, alias Tempul-Becan, is by the side of the approach to Powerscourt House from the Enniskerry direction, between the Gate-lodge and the House ; a Protestant Church stood in it, in which service was held till the erection of the new church nearer to Enniskerry, when the old one was dismantled.

    Tempul-Becan was founded by a St. Becan, who, according to the “ Martyrology of Donegal/’ was venerated on the 26th of May ; he is therein styled “ Becan of Tigh Chonaill, in Ui Briuin-Cualann” ; he was also the Patron Saint of Kilpeacon, in the County Limerick, and of Temple-Peacaun, in the Parish of Killardry, County Tipperary.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 110

19. Slaying near Ballymore Eustace by James FitzGerald

    Ballymore Eustace · town · Kildare · 1523

    A Talbot ancestor was slain on 20 November 1523 near Ballymore Eustace by James FitzGerald, described as 'Chief of the Earl of Kildare's followers'.

    Read the passage

    Slain, 20 November, 1523, near Ballymore Eustace, by James FitzGerald, “ Chief of the Earl of Kildare's followers.”

    [Co. Dublin Exchequer Inquisition, No. 16 of Mary, and Ware's Annals of Ireland, p. 114 (Edition of 1664).]

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 104

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up near Ballymore Eustace now. On the 20th of November 1523, a Talbot ancestor was slain near this town by James FitzGerald, described as "Chief of the Earl of Kildare's followers."

20. Smith Hired to Make Arms for Defence of Carlow Walls

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1392

    In 1392, to aid the settlers within the walls of Carlow, the Dublin Council engaged smith Richard Sonner of Dublin to dwell in Carlow for three months making guns, arms, harness, and other articles for defence against the Irish.

    Read the passage

    In 1392, to aid the settlers within the walls of Carlow, the Dublin Council engaged Master Richard Sonner, of Dublin, smith, who, with his attendant, agreed, for the payment of one shilling per day, to dwell there, in the King’s service, for three months, for the purpose of making guns, arms, harness, and other articles for defence of the place against the Irish.3

    In this year (1392) the Rector of Carlow Church, Richard Wals (? Walsh), Chaplain, an aged man, petitioned the Lord Justice for assistance, as the enemy had destroyed his house, goods, and grain ; he was granted £10.4

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 220

21. St. Comgall receives Catharlagh from Prince Cormac

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 550–567

    Prince Cormac, ruler of South Leinster, relinquished his throne and presented himself along with three forts and lands—Catharlagh, Foibren, and Ardcrena—to St. Comgall. Cormac died at the Monastery of Bangor around 567.

    Read the passage

    Cormac received his blessing, and afterwards ruled over the principality of South Leinster. It seems probable that he and St. Comgall were fellowstudents and intimate friends, while both studied together at Clonenagh. This Prince relinquished the sceptre in his more advanced years, in order to lead a religious life, and thus it came about that he, as an offering to God and to St. Comgall, presented himself and three forts with their adjacent lands in his territory ; these were Catharlagh, Foibren, and Ardcrena (of which the latter two places have not been identified). Cormac’s death, after the victory of penance, is said to have occurred in the Monastery of Bangor, about the year 567.”

    There is no mention of Carlow in the Irish Annals previous to the arrival of the Anglo-Normans in this country; this tends to prove that it was a place of no historical importance until after the erection of the castle, which was built to guard the ford in the Barrow, and to protect the tenants of the Lord of the Manor from their hostile and troublesome Irish neighbours.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 214

22. The Bottomless Lough-na-roon Near the Moat of Ardscull

    Ardscull · townland · Kildare

    Lough-na-roon, located above the big lough at Moatfield, was said to have no bottom, and tradition recounted that a yoke of bullocks and two ploughmen drowned there after the bullocks bolted into the lake.

    Read the passage

    Lough-na-roon, near the Moat of Ard sc all.— Lough-na-roon, up over the big lough at Moatfield in another field, has no bottom ; and I heard that a yoke of bullocks and two men were drowned in it one day; they were ploughing, and the bullocks used to be gadding, and they ran into the lough.

    The Banshee. — I often heard the banshee; the first time ever I heard her I was out with my uncle John one evening and I heard her ; and the minute he heard her he whipped me up under his arm and ran away with me.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 132

23. The lit ford of Casam Soilze at Castlesize

    Castlesize · townland · Kildare

    The old ford near Castlesize, below Millicent, was one of those ancient Irish law fords at which a light had to be shown when belated travellers shouted on dark and stormy nights in time of flood, as its old name Casam Soilze indicates.

    Read the passage

    in front of where the house now stands. The ford itself was one of those at which by the old Irish law a light had to be shown when belated travellers shouted on dark and stormy nights in the time of flood, as its old name, Casam Soilze, indicates.

    At Clane we come to another ancient ford, one of the most important on the Liffey, because the road to or from Meath crossed the river here. Its proper name is Clane, or Cluain Ath — the ford of the meadow — from the flat pasture all around. There is another derivation given — “ The ford of the Sanctuary,” as if from the Church and ancient Celtic Abbey, founded by St. Ailbe— -but this is incorrect. The importance of this ford arose from its leading direct from Meath into the fertile heart of Kildare. The old ford probably crossed the river a little above the present weir, where a narrow laneway still comes down. So important a passage had to be guarded, and a castle was built at the head of the ford. Some of the remains of this are to be seen in the stable-yard of Blackhall. At this ford a battle was

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 206

24. Wentworth Dillon, Earl of Roscommon, Occupies Lynche's Knock

    Summerhill · street · Meath · 1665

    Bishop Jones did not long hold Lynche's Knock; by the 1665 Hearth Money Rolls it was occupied by Wentworth Dillon, Earl of Roscommon, a poet at the Court of Charles II, who paid for eight hearths there.

    Read the passage

    But no influence succeeded in loosening the unrelenting grasp of Jones. The King, bored by the pressure of conflicting interests, finally confided to Ormonde the drafting of the new Bill. It became law on 25th December, 1665, as the Act of Explanation, and, with the exception of twenty persons to he nominated by the King, excluded all claimants from hope of reinstatement. The selection of these nominees His Majesty left to his Irish Lord Lieutenant, who omitted the name of the petitioner from the list presented. Thus ended the last struggle of Gerald Lynch to recover the old castle on the border of the Pale where his forefathers had for centuries kept watch and ward for the English colony and the English interest. He seems to have lived on in some poor cottage not far from his old home. His name is returned in the Hearth Money Bolls of 1665-6, for the townland of Bahinstown, as paying two shillings for one hearth. Bishop Jones did not long continue to hold Lynche’s Knock. By the same rolls we find that in 1665 it was occupied by Wentworth Dillon, Earl of Boscommon, who acquired considerable repute as a poet at the Court of Charles II. He is returned as paying for “ eight hearths ” in the Knock. Though nowadays considered but a minor poet, he was, perhaps too partially, lauded by Dryden in the wellknown lines : —

    “ The Muse’s Empire is restored again In Charles’s reign, and by Roscommon’s pen.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 200

25. Best family tomb-slab at Bestfield near the Athy road

    Bestfield or Dunganstown · townland · Carlow · 1739–1890

    Close to the Athy road at Bestfield is a ruinous enclosure containing a large tomb-slab, partly hidden under the bark of an old ash tree until it was cut away by order of Mr. Bruen in 1890. The slab bears inscriptions to Sarah Best, George Best, Arundel Best and Caulfield Best.

    Read the passage

    From a family named Best, who settled here in the eighteenth century, the townland became known as Bestfield. Close to the Athy road is a ruinous enclosure containing a large tomb-slab on which, until cut away by orders of Mr. Bruen in 1890, an old ash had so grown that a portion of the inscription was hid under its encroaching bark; the slab, which was originally probably a table-tomb, bears the following inscription

    Here Lyeth the Body of Mrs Sarah Best, the wife of Arundel Best,

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 256

26. Castle Kevin granted to Art Og O'Toole

    Castlekevin · townland · Wicklow · 1541

    As part of the negotiated settlement, Castle Kevin and the surrounding lands called the Fertur were proposed to be granted to Art Og O'Toole, brother of Tirlagh, described as a sober fellow and good captain.

    Read the passage

    And if it may please Your Hieghnes to graunte unto the saide Thirrologh the castell of Powrescourte (whiche of late Your Hieghnes gave to one of your subjects1 here, which is parsell of the lande that they clayme, called Fercullen, apon recompense by your saide subjecte to be made), and the landes in the saide Fercullen ; and to the brother of the saide Thirrologh, called Art Og Othole (whiche is a sobre fellowe, and a good capteyne), the foresaide Castell Keven, with the landes thereunto belonging called the Fertur, to be holden by Your Hieghnes by suche service as shall stande with your pleasure. Which graunte yt may pleace Your Majestie to referre to certeyne Commissioners for that purpose to be assigned, for the dividing of the giftes of the saide landes betwixt theym and their famylie ; lest that the hoole being graunted to the brothers, if they shuld make division of the same, thothers, having nothing, shuld be dreven to be as thoes men have ben ; every of theym to hold of Your Majestie by like service, whiche landes they mooste chefely desier, and they be no we all waste, the parcelles wherof may appeare unto Your Majestie in a boke2 herein enclosed. And obteyning the same of Your Majestie, the said Thirrologh, and Arte his brother, have promised not onlie to put in pledges of the best they have, for their good behavior to Your Hieghnes and subjects, but also to cause all the same landes to be manured and pepled by suche as shall in all poynctes obey Your Hieghnes lawes and preceptes, and preserve the countrey, that your people shall and may passe the same without daunger of lif or goodes, and to paye yerelie to Your Majestie, after 2 yeres, fyve markes by the yere for Powrescourte with Fercullen, and other 5 markes by the yere to the saide Archebisshop for his interesse in the saide Castell Keven and Fertur aforsaide. And we thinke that thoes countreys being ones peopled and having goodes to loose, shall always be under the scourge of Your Deputie, in caas they wold at any tyme do otherwise than becommeth theym.

    1 Pierce Talbot, before mentioned under the year 1537.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 106

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Castlekevin, a castle once stood that was at the centre of a bargain struck in 1541. In a petition to the crown, Tirlagh O'Toole sought grants of land for himself and his family. Castle Kevin and its surrounding lands, called the Fertur, were proposed for his brother, Art Og O'Toole, whom the petition describes as a sober fellow and a good captain. The brothers promised to put up pledges for their good behaviour, to settle and cultivate the lands with people who would obey the law, and to ensure that travellers could pass through the country without danger to life or goods. They also offered to pay yearly rents, including 5 marks a year to the Archbishop for his interest in Castle Kevin and the Fertur. The petitioners argued that once the country was peopled and had goods to lose, it would always remain under control. The castle itself does not survive above ground today.

27. Cormac's Chapel described on the Rock of Cashel

    near Rock of Cashel · rock or rocks · Tipperary · 1910

    At the celebrated Chapel of the Bishop-King, Cormac MacCarthy, the Archdeacon of Kildare read Lord Dunraven's description of the building and pointed out its features, before the party viewed the Cathedral crofts and chancel.

    Read the passage

    Arrived at the celebrated Chapel of the Bishop-King, Cormac MacCarthy, the Archdeacon of Kildare read the description of the building given by Lord Dunraven in his “ Notes on Irish Architecture,” and pointed out its various features of interest. The two crofts above the Chapel and its chancel were then visited, and the visitors proceeded to inspect the remains of the Cathedral, which Archbishop Price, to his eternal disgrace, unroofed in the year 17 49. The Dominican Priory was viewed on the route from the Cathedral to the town, and some of the members afterwards visited the ruins of Hore Abbey, in the low ground near the railway station.

    Thus ended one of the most interesting and instructive Excursions made by the Society ; the only thing to be regretted being that so few of the members were able to take part in it, owing to the impossibility of completing this Excursion in the one day, by those on the Tullow and Kilkenny branch lines.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 282

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Rock of Cashel stands Cormac's Chapel, the celebrated chapel of the Bishop-King, Cormac MacCarthy. In 1910 the Archdeacon of Kildare read aloud Lord Dunraven's description of the building from his Notes on Irish Architecture, and pointed out its various features of interest to the party. They then visited the two crofts above the chapel and its chancel.

28. Drimnagh Castle uniquely retains a water-filled moat

    Drimnagh Castle · castle · Dublin

    Sir Arthur Vicars notes that Drimnagh Castle, County Dublin, is, as far as he knows, the only residence in Ireland still surrounded by a moat filled with water.

    Read the passage

    Sir Arthur Vicars, in his Paper on “ Drimnagh Castle, County Dublin,” says that, as far as he knows, it is the only residence now in Ireland surrounded by a moat still filled with water.

    It may interest our readers to know that Frankfort Castle, near Roscrea, the residence of Mr. Charles Rolleston, lateR.M., has a very perfect moat round it full of water.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 171

    As the companion tells it

    Right beside the road here is Drimnagh Castle in County Dublin. Sir Arthur Vicars noted that, as far as he knew, it was the only residence in Ireland still surrounded by a moat filled with water. Frankfort Castle near Roscrea, the home of Charles Rolleston, also has a very perfect moat full of water.

29. Eleventh-Century Battle Between Irish and Danes near Kilcullen

    Kilcullen · town · Kildare · 1000–1099

    Two hundred years before the 1647 burning, there had been a bloody battle in the neighbourhood of Kilcullen between the Irish of Leinster and the Danes.

    Read the passage

    Earlier than this, in the eleventh century, there was a bloody battle in the neighbourhood between the Irish and the Danes. Its last experience of war was in 1798, when the rebels holding Old Kilcullen on the hill beat back the royal troops who attacked them, but were afterwards disastrously defeated. Between Kilcullen and Newbridge are two fords — those of Athgarvan and of Connellmore. The name Athgarvan is compounded of three Irish words — Atli, a ford, garv or garran , rough, and an or anna, a water or stream. Thus it is equivalent to “the ford of the rough water/' and indicates a ford at times dangerous. It is exactly equivalent to Owen-garve in the south, only the syllables are reversed. Mr. Reeves informed me that the bridge here is only about seventy years old. Before that, if the river were in flood, travellers to Naas had to go round either by Newbridge or Kilcullen. The old ford was lower down than the bridge, and Bose- town Rath, on the Naas side, commanded it against any force coming from the south. The first pier of the bridge when building was swept away by a high flood.

    In March, 1646, Ormonde, in command of the Parliamentary army, crossed the Liffey by Athgarvan ford, and attacked the rebels in Castlemartin.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 205

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kilcullen, this town carries an older echo of war. In the eleventh century, a bloody battle was fought in this neighbourhood between the Irish and the Danes. Kilcullen saw its last experience of war in 1798, when rebels holding Old Kilcullen on the hill beat back the royal troops who attacked them, but were afterwards disastrously defeated. Between Kilcullen and Newbridge are two fords, Athgarvan and Connellmore. Athgarvan means "the ford of the rough water," marking a crossing at times dangerous. The bridge here is only about seventy years old. Before that, if the river were in flood, travellers to Naas had to go round by Newbridge or Kilcullen. The old ford was lower down than the bridge, and Bose-town Rath on the Naas side commanded it against any force coming from the south. The first pier of the bridge was swept away by a high flood while it was being built. In March 1646, Ormonde, in command of the Parliamentary army, crossed the Liffey by Athgarvan ford and attacked the rebels in Castlemartin.

30. Feudal customs and services of Carlow Manor tenants

    Carlow · townland · Carlow

    Tenants and cottagers of the Manor of Carlow owed numerous customary services and dues to the Lord of the Manor, including sheep, butter, ale, hides from slaughtered cows, labour on the castle, weeding and reaping demesne corn, cutting wood, and a death-duty called a 'herriot'. These obligations governed daily economic life in the town and manor lands.

    Read the passage

    (i l ) In addition to the tolls of the Fair, and the profits of the Mill of the Manor, there was a tax called “a herriot ” due to the Lord of the Manor. The herriot consisted of the second best beast, of whatever kind it be, which on the death of the tenant or cottager was given to the Lord of the Manor ; if he had but one animal, it was to be auctioned among the neighbours and one third of the price given to him ; and if the deceased possessed no animal, his goods were auctioned and if they came to the value of 20s and over, 6s & 8d of that sum in the name of a herriot was handed to the Lord of the Manor. (Morrin’s “ Cal. of Close Rolls,” vol. ii, p. 515)].

    Land of Mortelliston, parcel of the said Manor.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 228

31. Haunted place and fishing anecdote at Dun Aengus, Inishmore

    Inishmore · electoral division · Galway

    At Dun Angus on Inishmore, one of the Isles of Aran, the author sat with a pampootied islander fishing while watching a 'pookawn' sailing in the distance, illustrating local dialect and customs of the Aran islanders.

    Read the passage

    Though the Connaught man does not mix up the two languages, yet he sometimes uses English words in a peculiar way. For instance, one man told me he was very fearful when passing a place supposed to be haunted. Again, when at Dun Angus, on Inislimore, one of the Isles of Aran, seated on the cliffs by the side of a pampootied islander, who was fishing, I was looking through my field-glasses at a “ pookawn ” sailing in the distance ; presently he asked me for the loan of my looking-glass . On another occasion I was being driven on a car between Clonbur and Maum in the county Galway, and when passing a glen, which had got a bad name for lawlessness, the driver informed me that the inhabitants of it were cannibals (savages, I suppose, he meant). Misnomers of this sort are of course due to a limited acquaintance with the English language.

    It is more or less the general opinion that the peasantry pronounce all e sounds as ay ; and so one frequently sees in “ Punch ” and some Irish novels such words as indeed written indade , and praste for priest ; in the ~me way, Oi for I, and toime for time, are

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 327

32. Manor and Castle of Powerscourt formally granted to O'Toole brothers

    Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow · 1541

    After Pierce Talbot's surrender was arranged, the Manor and Castle of Powerscourt was granted to Tirlagh O'Toole, and the Castle of Castlekevin and lands of Fertur to his brother Art Oge, on conditions including maintaining the castles, using English dress and language, and tilling the land.

    Read the passage

    Having thus satisfied Pierce Talbot, a grant of the Manor and Castle of Powerscourt was made to Tirlagh O’Toole, and to his brother Art Oge the Castle of Castlekevin and lands of Fertur, on the conditions that the castles were kept in good repair, that the tenants and inhabitants should use the English dress and language, that the land should be tilled and houses built for the farmers ; that no taxes should be imposed, and no

    1 Imaile, a former territory of the O’Tooles in the County Wicklow Barony of Talbotstown.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 107

33. O'More and O'Conor burn the territory of the Eustaces near Naas

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1547

    In 1547, an irruption was made by O'More (Gillapatrick) and the sons of Cahir O'Conor into County Kildare, where they burned and plundered the greater part of the territory of the Eustaces, comprising most of the Baronies of North and South Naas.

    Read the passage

    the revolt continued, and “an irruption was made by O’ More (Gillapatrick) and the sons of Cahir O’Conor into the County of Kildare, and they burned and plundered the greater part of the territory of the Eustaces (comprising most of the Baronies of North and South Naas). They remained in that country until the Lord Justice overtook them. These Irish were defeated on this occasion, with the loss of two hundred foot soldiers. . . . O’More and O’Conor went over to the English to make submission to them upon their own terms, under the protection of an English gentleman (Lieutenant Francis Bryan). This, however, was a bad protection.” . . . “1548. O’Conor and O’More went to England with the Lieutenant, at the King’s mercy. The King, however, gave their patrimonial inheritances, namely, Offaly and Leix, to the Lieutenant and his kinsmen, who built two large courts (or forts) in these territories, namely, the Campa (now Maryborough) in Leix, and Dangan (now Philipstown) in Offaly ; and they proceeded to let these at rents to the English and Irish, as if they were their own lawful patrimonial inheritances, after having banished and expelled their own rightful, original inheritors. O’Conor and O’More, from thence, with all their adherents and descendants.” . . . “ O’More (Gillapatrick) died suddenly in England, and he would have been a lamentable loss, were it not for the power of the English.”

    Gillapatrick O’More was succeeded in the chieftainship of the clan by his brother Connell “ oge.’’

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Naas, you are in territory that burned in 1547. O'More, called Gillapatrick, and the sons of Cahir O'Conor broke into County Kildare that year and burned and plundered the greater part of the territory of the Eustaces, covering most of the Baronies of North and South Naas. They remained in the country until the Lord Justice overtook them and defeated them, with the loss of 200 foot soldiers. O'More and O'Conor then went to the English to make submission, under the protection of Lieutenant Francis Bryan. The record calls this "a bad protection." In 1548 they went to England with the Lieutenant, at the King's mercy. The King gave their patrimonial inheritances, Offaly and Leix, to the Lieutenant and his kinsmen, who built two forts: the Campa, now Maryborough, in Leix, and Dangan, now Philipstown, in Offaly. They let these lands at rents to the English and Irish as if they were their own, after banishing the rightful inheritors. Gillapatrick O'More died suddenly in England. His brother Connell Oge succeeded him as chieftain of the clan.

34. Patthern at Croagh Patrick on Garland Sunday

    near Croagh Patrick · mountain or mountain range · Mayo

    A Patthern, or gathering at a blessed well or holy site, was held on Croagh Patrick on the last Sunday in July, known as Garland Sunday. This was one of the fixed annual patron-day gatherings described in the glossary.

    Read the passage

    A Patthern is a gathering at a Blessed Well (which see), generally" on the patron saint’s day, or on some fixed days during the year. For instance, the Patthern on Croagh Patrick, Co. Mayo, has always been on Garland Suqday, i.e., the last Sunday in July. At St. Brendan’s Well, at Tubbrid, parish of Ardfert, county Kerry, Pattherns take place on the last Saturday in April and on the Saturdays before the 24th of June (St. John the Baptist’s Festival), and Michaelmas Day (29th September).

    A Paudeen ; a square-bladed shovel.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 334

35. Preceptory of Knights Hospitallers near Killerrig

    Killerrig · townland · Carlow · 1290–1541

    A Preceptory of the Knights Hospitallers of St. John of Jerusalem stood about three-quarters of a mile from the old church of Killerrig, and the church was included in their possessions. Debate exists over whether the site originally belonged to the Templars before passing to the Hospitallers.

    Read the passage

    “ Killerrig, in the County Carlow, is another place which has been associated with the Templars. Ware, in his ‘Antiquities/ and the Abbe MacGeoghegan in his ‘ Histoire de 1’Irlande/ both state that it belonged to the Templars and passed to the Hospitallers. That both these authors are wrong we have a proof in an entry on the Plea Roll, 82 Ed. I, 1803, where in an account for the County Kildare we find that Friar Bernard, Brother of the Hospital of Kylergi, and Friar Robert, Master of the Hospital at Toly, were fined. A few years before this, in 1290, in the confirmation of a charter from the Prior of the Hospitallers to Henry Marshal, a citizen of Dublin, we find the Master of Killerrig as a witness. It is extremely unlikely that this Preceptory should have belonged once to the Templars, and been by them afterwards transferred to the Hospitallers, as the friction between the two orders was so great as to render such a transaction almost an impossibility.” So great was the friction that in the year 1259 there was a pitched battle between the two orders, in which the Hospitallers won.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 111

36. Prisoners Tried in the Jail of Carlow Castle

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1408

    In 1408 Thomas Taillour of Carlow and Simon de Vale, sheriff of the county, were appointed to try prisoners confined in the jail of Carlow Castle.

    Read the passage

    In 1408, Thomas Taillour, of Carlow, cleric, and Simon de Vale, sheriff of the county, were appointed to try the prisoners confined in the jail of Carlow Castle.3 The surname “ de Vale” has undergone several changes : different branches of the same family would also call themselves “ le Veel,” “ Calfe,” and Wall. In the following year Thomas Taillour was granted a custodiam of the estate of Thomas de Vale, deceased, and was made guardian of his daughter, Joan, by his wife Margaret Traharne.

    In 1405 Sir Edmund Perers, Knight, was appointed

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

37. St. Comgan, patron saint of Killeshin

    Killeshin · townland · Laois · 800–900

    St. Comhdan (or Comgan) is venerated as the patron saint of Killeshin, succeeding St. Dermot as Abbot. His festival falls on 27th February, and he is mentioned in the Martyrology of Donegal.

    Read the passage

    “ Comdhan, of Glenn Uissen, son of Diarmaid, son of Deghadh, of the race of Cormac Cas, son of Oilill Oluim ; and Ethne, daughter of Feidhlimidh, son of Tighernach, was his mother.”

    St. Comgan, who was termed “ C endindis ,” i.e. “ without reproach,” is supposed to have died about the end of the ninth century. He succeeded a St. Dermot as Abbot of Killeshin, who, according to the “Annals of the Four Masters,” died on the 8tli July, 874. As this St. Dermot is thought to have been the original founder of the church in Glen Ushin, it is strange that he should not be regarded as the patron saint. He, on the 8th July, is thus alluded to in the Martyrology : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 136

38. Stradbally house 'raized' by the enemy

    Stradbally · town · Laois · 1598

    Captain Thomas Reade reported that Stradbally, described as a principal place in Leix and a house of Captain Cosby's, was possessed by the enemy and razed in December 1598.

    Read the passage

    It may not be out of place to mention here that in November, 1598, the Castle of Stradbally was surprised by the O’Mores and captured. “ It belonged to the widow Cosby, whose husband and her eldest son were slain there last year, but on this occasion the poor widow by good hap was come into this town (Dublin) a little before, whereby she avoided that calamity ” (which befell Sir Thomas More and his wife in their “ house called Croghan,” in the King’s County, shortly before).1 In the following December, a Captain Thomas Reade reports that : — “ Stradbally, a principal place in Leix, and a house of Captain Cosby's, in the Queen's County, is possessed by the enemy and raized.”2 Stradbally first came into the possession of the Cosby family in February, 1568. 3 When in after years the country had quieted down, the mansion shown in the quaint, large oil painting,4 now at Stradbally Hall, was built, though the present mansion does not occupy its site. There is a house in the town of Stradbally at the present time called “ The Abbey,” which probably marks the site of the Franciscan Monastery, founded in 1447, though no portion of the ancient walls now exists.

    In the month of August, 1596, Captain Warham Sentleger

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 43

39. Unhospitable reception of a friar at Cnoc-Samhruidh castle, Summerhill

    Summerhill · street · Meath · 1626

    A 1626 Franciscan manuscript poem describes an anonymous friar journeying from London to Cnoc-Samhruidh (identified with Summerhill) who was inhospitably received by the Lord of the Castle, styled loosely as an Earl. The friar was cast out beyond the walls and told never to return, having spent his scanty resources on the fruitless journey.

    Read the passage

    “ On my being recognized by the people of the fortress, out beyond the walls I am cast, and told never again to return to that castle which hath beggared me.

    IV.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

40. Wayside cross to Peter Lynch found near Rathmoylan

    Rathmoylan · townland · Waterford · 1554

    Dean Cogan's History of the Meath Diocese records a broken shaft of a richly ornamented cross near the village of Rathmoylan, inscribed with a prayer for the soul of Peter Lynch dated 1554.

    Read the passage

    shaft of a richly ornamented cross, with the following inscription : — * Orate pro anima Petri Lince. a.d. 1554.’ ” Lord Langford has discovered on his grounds, and carefully preserves, portion of a shaft similarly ornamented and inscribed, with a memorial shield bearing the arms of Peter Lynch and those of his wife, Elizabeth Thunder (three trumpets between a chevron).

    The latter cross, I believe, originally stood by the ancient highway that passed close to Lynch’s castle, traversing the present enclosed demesne. Petty’s parish map (1656-7) indicates a large cross by that roadside, at a point that I should locate within the demesne, and a few perches south-east of the main (north) entrance gate.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 190

41. 1536 forfeiture of absentee estates including Ballysax to the Crown

    Ballysax · parish · Kildare · 1536

    An Act of Parliament passed 1 May 1536 forfeited to the Crown properties of absentee English noblemen whose Irish estates had become impoverished and ruinous. The County Carlow lands and manor of Ballysax reverted to the Crown as a result.

    Read the passage

    In the sixteenth century Irish estates belonging to absentee English noblemen had become so impoverished for want of proper supervision, the lands becoming waste and the castles ruinous, that at last to put a stop to the abuse an Act 'was passed by Parliament on the 1st May, 1536, forfeiting such properties to the Crown, and as Thomas Howard, Duke of Norfolk, and the Lord Berkeley, are especially named as absentees, the County Carlow and the manor of Ballysax reverted to the Crown.

    In December, 1542, an Inquisition was held in Naas to ascertain what land in the County Kildare had thus been forfeited to the Crown ; and the jurors found that a castle, four messuages, twelve cottages, and 292 acres in Ballysax, with free grazing on the Curragh, were come into the King’s hands, and that the patronage of the rectory of Ballysax belonged to the Prior of Kartmell in England.1

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 85

42. Battle of Dundalk 1316: Edward Bruce defeated and slain

    Dundalk · town · Louth · 1316

    Sir John Cusack and his brothers Simon and Walter took part in the Battle of Dundalk in 1316, where Edward Bruce was defeated and slain, and the three brothers were knighted on the field for their valour.

    Read the passage

    Sir John Cusack, second Lord of Gerrardstown. He and his two brothers took part in the Battle of Dundalk, 1316, where Edward Bruce was defeated and slain, and where Sir John and his brothers, Simon and Walter, were made Knights on the field

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 303

43. Clonreher Castle Ruins Inspected Near Maryborough

    Clonreher · townland · Laois · 1550–1908

    The Society visited Clonreher Castle, a high oblong roofless building with projecting square towers at alternate corners, accessible by a narrow staircase to the top of the walls. Its ownership history traces to the lordship of Feran-odoulin, possibly the O'Dowlings, before being granted to John Dunkirley in 1550 and later held by the Hartpole family of Shrule.

    Read the passage

    building, now roofless, to the alternate corners of which are attached projecting square towers of the same height as the main portion ; a narrow staircase enables one to reach the top of the walls, which are of their original height, except that the battlements are gone. It is doubtful who the proprietor of this Castle was before the confiscations of Edward YI’s reign ; but as it stood in the lordship of “ Feran-odoulin,” it may have belonged to the O’Dowlings, one of the seven septs of Leix ; in 1550 it was granted by the Crown to one John Dunkirley, “ soldier/’ and a few years later it is found in the possession of the family of Hartpole of Shrule, in the southern end of the Queen’s County.

    From Clonreher the party drove through the town of Maryborough (which is uninteresting from an antiquarian point of view), and taking the Stradbally road, crossed the Monavaw Bog, and, after leaving the Dysart-Enos Hills on the right, arrived at the foot of the Bock of Dunamase, which lies four miles due east of Maryborough. After partaking of luncheon, the ascent of the Bock was made, and on reaching the summit a magnificent view was obtained over the plains of Kildare and the Wicklow Mountains on one side, and the Slieve Bloom Mountains, and the Devil’s Bit range in the opposite direction. Having examined the ruins of this, what must have been an almost impregnable Anglo-Norman fortification, the party assembled in the keep to hear a very interesting Paper on Dunamase, read by the Bev. Edward O’Leary, p.p., after which Mr. Ambrose More-O’Ferrall, the representative in the female line of the chiefs of Leix, read out the following names for membership, which were duly elected: —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

44. Curious 'Bull' Inscription on a Kilkea Headstone

    Kilkea · parish · Kildare

    A headstone in Kilkea churchyard bears an inscription erected by John O'Toole 'in memory of his Posterity,' cited as a classic example of an Irish 'bull' or absurd figure of speech. Though logically impossible, the intended meaning—commemoration of the man and his descendants—is clear.

    Read the passage

    A Bull is a blundering figure of speech, which though clearly conveying the intended meaning, yet, on examination, proves to be an absurdity. As an instance the following will suffice ; it is taken from an inscription on a headstone in Kilkea churchyard : — “ This stone is erected by John [0] Toole in memory of his Posterity.” Though the actual fact as stated is impossible, yet it is as clear as daylight that he intended to convey the idea that the erection of the stone was to commemorate him and his descendants.

    A Camaun ; a hurley stick.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 331

45. Delegates meet at Athy to address Lord Lieutenant, 1781

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1781

    On 11 September 1781 a meeting of delegates from the various Volunteer Corps of County Kildare was held in Athy, chaired by the Duke of Leinster, resolving to offer the Volunteers' assistance to the Lord Lieutenant for the safety of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    Nearly all the Kildare Corps were raised in 1779 ; where the uniform is described it is always given as red, faced with white. On the 11th of September, 1781, a meeting of the delegates from the various Corps in the County Kildare was held in Athy, with the (second) Duke of Leinster in the chair. At this meeting it was unanimously resolved that an Address should be presented to the Lord Lieutenant offering the assistance of the County Volunteers to act in such manner as should be thought necessary for the safety and protection of the Kingdom of Ireland. The Address was signed by the chairman, and by the following delegates : 4 —

    Infantry.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 239

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Athy, in County Kildare. On the 11th of September 1781, delegates from the various Volunteer Corps of the county met here, with the Duke of Leinster in the chair. They resolved unanimously to present an address to the Lord Lieutenant, offering the assistance of the County Volunteers to act as thought necessary for the safety and protection of the Kingdom of Ireland. Most of these Kildare Corps had been raised in 1779, and their uniforms were red, faced with white.

46. Description of Kilteel Castle's fortified structure

    Kilteel · parish · Kildare

    The castle of Kilteel, as described by Lord Mayo, consisted of a fortified gate-house with rooms above leading to a courtyard, and a main building with four large vaulted and floored apartments lit by narrow slit windows.

    Read the passage

    As to the Kildare preceptories, that of Killibegs, out near the Bog of Allen, would not be likely to be overburdened with guests; but it was different with Kilteel and Tully, which lay right in the road to the south, along which there was incessant coming and going — messengers of the Lord Deputy, officials of Government, officers and soldiers, clergy of various ranks, and private persons travelling on business. When we consider that these were practically the only places where such travellers could put up, it is evident that they must have had extensive accommodation. There was, as I mentioned in a previous paper, a hospice founded in Kill, endowed by Thomas of Hereford, with twelve acres of land; it is very likely that this was under the management of the Hospitallers for ordinary travellers, but they would receive more distinguished guests in the preceptory buildings. The castle of Kilteel, as described by Lord Mayo, consisted of a fortified gate-house, with two rooms above it, Avhicli led into a courtyard surrounded no doubt by expensive domestic offices and dormitories. In the main building there were four large apartments, 26*8 feet by 20‘6 feet, the lowest and the top room vaulted, and the two intermediate rooms floored; possibly some of these may have been partitioned into two or more smaller rooms; a winding stone stair led to them, all lighted by narrow slits. There were fire-places on the first three stories; and windows on north, south, and east sides,

    94

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 81

47. Effigy of Sir Maurice Fitz Gerald at St. Brigid's Cathedral

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1575–1891

    Sir Maurice Fitz Gerald, Kt., of Lackagh, died in 1575 and was buried in St. Brigid's Cathedral, Kildare. His effigy, erected by his widow Margaret Butler, still exists there.

    Read the passage

    Thomas fitz Maurice Fitz Gerald, of Lackagh, was the eldest son of Sir Maurice Fitz Gerald, Kt., of Lackagh, who died on the 26th December, 1575, and was buried in St. Brigid’s Cathedral, Kildare, where his effigy, erected by his widow, Margaret Butler (daughter of Edmond Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, illegitimate son of Peirce, 8th Earl of Ormond, and widow of Rory “ caech ” O’More, Chief of Leix), still exists.

    Thomas Fitz Gerald was twice married : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 266

48. Faelan O'More blinded, dies at Aghaboe

    Aghaboe · townland · Laois · 1041–1069

    In 1041 Faelan O'More, lord of Leix, was blinded by Murrough mac Dowling after being delivered to him; he later died at Aghaboe in Ossory in 1069.

    Read the passage

    1041. Faelan O’More, lord of Leix, was blinded by Murrough mac Dowling (King of Leinster), after having been delivered to him by Donough mac Hugh (? MacGorman), lord of Ui Bairrche, for it was he that took him first.

    [Faelan O’More, son of Aimergin, died at Aghaboe, in Ossory, in 1069. Donough mac Hugh was slain in 1042.]

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Aghaboe, Faelan O'More, lord of Leix, died in 1069. He had been blinded years earlier, in 1041, by Murrough mac Dowling, King of Leinster, after Donough mac Hugh, lord of Ui Bairrche, delivered him up. Donough mac Hugh was himself slain the very next year, 1042.

49. First fight of 1798 rebellion at Clane

    Clane · town · Kildare · 1798

    The first fight of the 1798 rebellion took place at Clane, at the site of the ancient ford and abbey remains.

    Read the passage

    fought in the year 82 a.d. between the men of Leinster and the Ulstermen, and Mesgegra, King of Leinster, was defeated. A cup-stone of great antiquity just opposite Mr. Penrhyn’s gate, is pointed out as the spot on which his head was cut off, to be borne in triumph to the North. Here was an ancient Irish Abbey founded by St. Ailbe, and some centuries later on the near side of the river, the Anglo-Normans built another abbey, the remains of which may still be seen. The first fight of 1798 took place at Clane.

    The old bridge of Clane was of great antiquity, with six arches, but the roadway being narrow, the present Alexandra Bridge was built in its stead. It is said that the old masonry was so solid that the bridge had to be blown up ; there is no fear of that being necessary for the present one ! Until lately a woollen mill was in operation here.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 207

50. Hollywood Demesne mansion burned down in 1798

    Hollywood · parish · Wicklow · 1798

    Hollywood Demesne, formerly called Tyrone Lodge and belonging to the Marquis of Waterford, had its mansion burned down in 1798 and it was never rebuilt.

    Read the passage

    Fr )m Hollywood the drive to Poulaphooka led past Hollywood Demesne, formerly called Tyrone Lodge, belonging to the Marquis of Waterford; the mansion was burned down in 1798, and never rebuilt.

    During luncheon at the Poulaphooka Hotel the following names for Membership were read out by the Archdeacon of Kildare, and duly elected Mr. and Hrs. Humphrey L. Bland, Mrs. B. J. Ker St. George, the Bev. William Carrigan, p.p. ; the Rev. H. A. D. Barbor, Rector of Castledermot ; and Mr. W. X. White of Maryborough.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 175

51. Human bones found during railing works at Ardrass chapel

    Ardrass · townland · Mayo

    Although no traces of graves remained visible at St. Patrick's Chapel in Ardrass, human bones were turned up when holes were being sunk for the uprights of the iron railing erected by Major Barton.

    Read the passage

    This little church was very judiciously restored, even to the re-opening of two windows which had been built up, viz., the one in the east gable and the one in the west wall. The credit is all the greater to the late Major Barton, as the work was carried out three years before our Society came into existence. By him, too, was erected the iron railing which surrounds the building, thus preventing cattle from taking shelter inside and from using the corners as scratching-posts. Though there are now no traces of any graves, yet human bones were turned up when sinking holes for the uprights of the railing.

    The only tradition in connexion with St. Patrick’s Chapel, which I heard on the spot, was that it was built in a single night by our national saint, and that next morning an evil-disposed pagan attempted to demolish it. He commenced by making a hole in the middle of the roof, through which he fell and broke his neck ; thus the remainder of the building escaped. The damage referred to was made good at the restoration.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 271

52. Invasion of O'More territory after burning Lea and Ballyadams castles

    Ballyadams · townland · Laois · 1346

    In 1346 Sir Roger Darcy and the Earl of Kildare invaded O'More's territory after he had burned the Castles of Lea and Kilmekedy (Ballyadams), compelling him to submit despite obstinate resistance.

    Read the passage

    1346. Sir Roger Darcy, the Justiciary, and the Earl of Kildare, invaded the territory of O’More, who had burned the Castles of Lea and of Kilmekedy (now Ballyadams) : they compelled him to submit, although he resisted obstinately. [Grace’s “Annals of Ireland.”]

    1348. Likewise, on Tuesday, the morrow of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary (2nd Feb.), Connell O’More, prince and lord of his country, was slain by his brothers in whom he trusted, together with whom he banqueted in confidence that very day, and whose sons he then held as hostages for their remaining faithful and subject to him. They did not dread the slaying of their sons, and did not fear to fall into the crime of perjury : ambition to rule disjointed and broke up the fraternal tie ; and having broken the bond of brotherhood, spurned love and the tie of blood, they slew him treacherously. All that land and country could not receive those whom the womb of one mother bore. Nor was punishment taken away or deferred even, for on the 8th day the English of Ossory who cherished the side of Connell, having entered the country, his first begotten son, Rory, was elected and accepted as prince by the common consent of the people ; and David O’More, full brother of the deceased, with certain English of the County Kildare and Carlow, withstood the English of Ossory when returning home in a narrow pass, and captured some horses which Carried the baggage and arms of the men of Ossory. And David himself was slain there, a man powerful, rich, and discreet, having no kinsmen his equal after Connell ; and so he lost life, sway, and brother. The other brothers who had all conspired were forced to leave the district as exiles. [Clynn’s “Annals of Ireland.”]1

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 24

53. Kavanagh forces burn the town of Carlow

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1652

    On the 28th of April, 1652, Cahir and Art Kavanagh with their forces burned the town of Carlow and slew three troops of horsemen and other armed men.

    Read the passage

    On the 28th of April, 1652, Cahir and Art Kavanagh with their forces burned the town of Carlow, and slew three troops of horsemen, and other armed men.2

    In 1680 Carlow was visited by a Worcestershire antiquary, Thomas Dineley, who during the years 1679, 1680, and 1681,

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 245

54. Killerrig Preceptory now a mound of stones

    Killerrig · townland · Carlow

    The Preceptory of Killerrig, founded by Gilbert de Borard in the reign of King John for the Knights Hospitallers, is now represented only by a mound of stones, while the old Celtic church nearby still stands.

    Read the passage

    I may say, in conclusion, that although Mr. Herbert Wood, m.r.i.a., has made it abundantly clear that the castle at Killerrig Tvas a house of the Hospitallers, and not of the Templars, the late Mr. C. L. Falkiner, m.r.i.a., tells us that the assertion that it was a house of the Templars may have had its origin in a grant by Nicholas Taaffe to the Master of the Templars in 1284, of his lands near Killergy. This grant is not included in the Templars’ possessions in 1807- The Preceptory of Killerrig, founded by Gilbert de Borard, in the reign of King John, for Knights Hospitallers, is now represented by a mound of stones. The once powerful order of Knights is now represented in the British Isles by a mere shadow in London ; but the old Celtic church still holds up its head, and tells of a faith that may be cast down, but can never be destroyed.

    Of the old military orders, the only one that seems to preserve a shadow of existence in the British Isles is the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, known also as the Knights of Rhodes, and Knights of Malta. A branch of this order was established in England at the Priory of St. John, Clerkenwell, about the year 1160, and there its present habitation is still to be found. It virtually ceased to exist in 1805. It was revived in 1879, and the parent stem now flourishes at Malta. In 1830 its statutes were revised, and it became an organization for the purpose of performing charitable and ambulance work. In 1888 a Royal Charter was granted ; and it is now a properly constituted order, with a Maltese red cross as its badge. The Sovereign Patron of the Order is the King. The present Grand Prior is the Prince of Wales. The Bailiff of Egle is the Duke of Connaught. It has executive officers, Knights of Justice, and Honorary Ladies of Justice, an Honorary Chaplain, Knights of Grace, and Esquires, and for badges a Medal and the Maltese Cross, coloured red.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 113

55. Legendary Castle Site on Garrison Hill at Ballymore-Eustace

    Ballymore Eustace · town · Kildare · 1440

    Tradition holds that the castle protecting the ford or bridge at Ballymore-Eustace stood on what is known as Garrison Hill; it may have been built on both sides of the river with the bridge connecting the two parts. In 1440 the Eustace in command was accused of keeping his sheep in the castle, and recent building operations uncovered vaults thought to be connected with it.

    Read the passage

    We come now to a much more important place, Ballymore- Eustace, the “great town of the Eustaces.” The Archbishops of Dublin had large properties in this neighbourhood, so that Eustaces were for a long time Wardens of the Marches, and the town became practically theirs. It was their duty to keep a strong garrison to repel attacks from the mountain Irish. Tradition says that the castle protecting the ford or bridge stood on what is known as Garrison Hill, and it is possible that a castle did at a later period stand there ; but Mr. Boulter tells me that he thinks the old castle was built on both sides of the river, and that the bridge connected the two parts. All remains of the castle were, however, long since completely removed, but I am told that recently in the course of building operations a set of vaults were discovered, which seem to have been connected with the castle ; and in 1440 the Eustace in command was accused of keeping his sheep there.

    The O’Tooles and O’Byrnes in the mountains near were

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 204

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Ballymore Eustace now, the great town of the Eustaces. The Archbishops of Dublin held large properties here, and the Eustaces served as Wardens of the Marches, keeping a strong garrison to repel attacks from the mountain Irish. Tradition says the castle protecting the ford or bridge stood on what is known as Garrison Hill, and it may have been built on both sides of the river with the bridge connecting the two parts. All remains of the castle were long since completely removed, but a set of vaults were discovered during recent building operations, seeming to connect with it. In 1440 the Eustace in command was accused of keeping his sheep there. The O'Tooles and O'Byrnes in the mountains nearby were the threat the garrison was meant to hold off.

56. Lord Deputy views the Fort of Leix at Maryborough

    Maryborough · townland · Laois · 1600

    After the fighting at the Pass of the Plumes, the Lord Deputy marched the army to Stradbally and rode with twenty horse to view the Fort of Leix at Maryborough, returning that night to camp at Stradbally.

    Read the passage

    called them (his men) off, gave order to the army to march to Stradbally, and with some twenty horse went to see the Fort of Leix (Maryborough), and returned that night to the Camp (at Stradbally).” On the 25th the army was divided up among the different garrisons, and the Lord Deputy went to Naas, and the next day to Dublin.

    Thus ended an expedition which resulted in such irreparable loss to the Irish cause.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 65

57. Lord Leonard Grey Well Entertained at Carlow by Lord James Butler

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1538

    In 1538 the Justiciary Lord Leonard Grey and the Council, proceeding through Leinster to proclaim the Reformation, reported being very well entertained at Carlow by Lord James Butler over Christmas, before going on to Kilkenny.

    Read the passage

    In 1588 the Justiciary, Lord Leonard Grey, and the Council proceeded through Leinster for the purpose of proclaiming the King’s injunctions for establishing the Reformation. They report that on reaching Carlow “ where Lord James Butler kepte his Cristmas we ther were veray well interteyned, and from thens we went to Kylkenny, where we were no les interteyned by therle of Ormonde.”1

    In the previous month of August, Lord Leonard Grey was present in Carlow, on which occasion the Chief of Leix, Pierce O’More, made his submission and went bail for his nephews, Kedagh and Rory, sons of Congal (Connell) O’More, deceased.2

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 226

58. O'Connor of Offaly Coat-of-Arms Slab at Ballylehane Castle

    Ballylehane · electoral division · Laois · 1600–1699

    A limestone mural slab bearing the O'Connor of Offaly coat-of-arms and the war-cry 'Falyagh-abo' was formerly in Ballylehane Castle in the Parish of Killabban, Queen's County, and is now built into a gate-pier near the castle ruin.

    Read the passage

    a fragment of the castle ruin now stands. On the slab the crest is shown as a dove-like bird ; there are two lion or leopard-like supporters (which are unusual, except in a peer’s coat- of -arms) ; and below the shield, on a scroll, is the warcry of the Leinster O’Connors — Falyagh-abo (i.e., Offaly to victory). This slab belongs to the early seventeenth century. As Ballyl ehane Castle was granted to the ancestor of the Hovenden family in 1570, it is difficult to explain the presence of the O’Connor arms there, unless there was an intermarriage between them.

    Secondly. These arms are shown at the head of a Funeral Entry, dated 1622, at p. 9, in vol. v of the Funeral Entries in Ulster’s Office. The shield is lozenge-shaped, and impales the three bars of the O'Connors with the Haughton coat, viz., “ Sable, three bars argent.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 167

59. Old Kilcock–Summerhill road marks 1515 Pale border

    Kilcock · town · Kildare · 1515–1657

    The road from Kilcock to Summerhill is traced on the Down Survey Map of 1657 and marks the border of the English Pale as it stood in 1515, running from Kells to Dangan to Kilcock to Clane.

    Read the passage

    The road in its course from Kilcock to Summerhill is not a modern highway. It is traced on the Down Survey Map of 1657, and it marks at this section the border of the English Pale as it stood in 1515. In a State Paper of that year the Pale is described as running from the town of Kells to the town of Dangan, from Dangan to Kilcock, and from Kilcock to Clane.1

    At that time the principal guardian of the English frontier between Kilcock and Trim was Wellesley, the Lord of Dangan, who was from time immemorial hereditary standard-bearer of the King of England in his wars in Ireland, and held his Lordship by that service.2

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 145

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kilcock, the old road heading toward Summerhill is no modern highway. It appears on the Down Survey Map of 1657, and by this section it marked the border of the English Pale as that border stood in 1515. A State Paper of that year describes the Pale running from the town of Kells to the town of Dangan, from Dangan to Kilcock, and from Kilcock to Clane. The principal guardian of the English frontier between Kilcock and Trim at that time was Wellesley, the Lord of Dangan. He was from time immemorial hereditary standard-bearer of the King of England in his wars in Ireland, and held his lordship by that service.

60. O'More slain at Castle of Baile-na-mBachlach, Kilberry

    Kilberry · town · Kildare · 1493

    In 1493, Connell O'More, lord of Leix, was slain at the Castle of Baile-na-mBachlach ('the town of the shepherds') in the Bulby's country, situated in the Parish of Kilberry on the east bank of the Barrow, by men of the Earl of Kildare.

    Read the passage

    1493. O’More, i.e., Connell, the son of David, lord of Leix, was slain at the Castle of Baile-na-mBachlach in Crioch Bnlbach (that is at “the town of the shepherds” in the Bulby’s country, which was situated in the Parish of Kilberry, County Kildare, on the east bank of the river Barrow), by a party of the people of the Earl of Kildare.

    1493. Neill, son of Donnell O’More, was made O’More.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 26