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

Owny mac Rory's fight at Stradbally

Stradbally · town · Laois · 1596

Among the stirring incidents in Owny mac Rory O'More's career was the fight at Stradbally in May 1596, part of his ongoing armed resistance as chief of the O'Mores.

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Among the most stirring incidents in Owny mac Rory’s career were the fight at Stradbally in May, 1596 ; the defeat of a strong English force at “ Ferny Priory ” (Ferraneprior), alias Timalioe, in December, 1597 ; the battle at “ the Pass of the Plumes ” in May, 1599 ; the capture of the Earl of Ormond in April, 1600 ; and, finally, Owny’s death in a skirmish near “ Farranabee,” in the Barony of Slieve Margy, in August, 1600.
The fight at Stradbally took place about the 17th or 18th of

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 41

Peter Lynch buried at Laracor parish church

Laracor · townland · Meath · 1554

Peter Lynch's will directed that his body be buried before the Image of the Blessed Virgin Mary in his parish church of Lethercor (Laracor), and that a priest be maintained to pray for his soul and his family's.

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“ I bequeath my soule to the glorious Trinite, the Father and the Son and the Holy Gost, three persons and one God — My body to be buryed before the Image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in my parish Churche of Lethercor (Laracor) — I wyll my wyff shall fynd a preyst upon my goods and leads, during hyr lyff to pray for hir and me and our posterite and all Crist[ian] soules.”
Two wayside crosses seem to have been erected to Peter’s memory. Dean Cogan writes, in his History of the Meath Diocese : — “Near the village of Rathmolyon there is a broken

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 190

Pierce O'More's submission and renunciation of Dunamase in 1538

Park or Dunamase · townland · Laois · 1538

On 24 August 1538, Pierce mac Melaghlin O'More, Chief of Leix, submitted to Lord Leonard Grey, renouncing all claims to the castle and lordship of Dunamase and other lands formerly held by the Earl of Kildare.

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“ Et ulterius idem Petrus O’More, pro se et successoribus suis Capitaneis de Lexia, renunciat omni juri, proprietati, et titule, in castro et dominio Domini Regis de Donamase in Lexia predicta ; ac in omnibus aliis dominiis, castris, terris, et possessionibus in Lexia predicta, que Geraldus nuper Comes Kildarie,2 vel pater ejus, habuit et possidebat in Lexia predicta. Et quod promittit, quod non solum permittet Domino Regi, officiariis, fermariis, et servientibus suis, eadem Castrum et dominium de Donamase, et cetera premissa que fuerunt dicti Geraldi Comitis, vel patris ejus, pacifice possidere et occupare, ac de sis disponsere ad voluntatem suam, sub pena predicta ; sed etiam idem Petrus O’More dictos firmarios et servientes Domini Regis in possessione et occupatione premissorum manutenebit et auxiliabitur pro posse suo.”3
A similar agreement was made in 1542 by Pierce’s successor but one in the Chieftainship — Rory caech O’More.4

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 127

As the companion tells it

Close to Park or Dunamase, on 24 August 1538, Pierce mac Melaghlin O'More, Chief of Leix, submitted to Lord Leonard Grey and renounced all claim to the castle and lordship of Dunamase, along with every other castle, land and possession in Leix that the late Earl of Kildare or his father had held. He promised, for himself and his successors as chiefs of Leix, to let the King's officers and farmers peacefully possess and dispose of those lands, and even to aid them in holding that possession. A similar agreement was made in 1542 by Rory caech O'More, Pierce's successor but one in the chieftainship.

Pierce Talbot surrenders Powerscourt, granted Dublin lands in exchange

Tibradden · townland · Dublin · 1541

Following the King's instructions, Pierce Talbot surrendered his interest in the Manor of Powerscourt while retaining Fassaroe and Rathdown, and in April 1541 was granted lands including Bullock, Balmachorus, Glanmunder and Tibradden in County Dublin as compensation.

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Teghbrodan, alias Kilmaynanbege, now Tibradden, all in the County Dublin.2
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

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 107

Plunder and demolition of oratory at Killeshin, 700 captives taken

Killeshin · townland · Laois · 1041

In 1041 Gleann Uisean (Killeshin) was plundered by the son of Mael-na-mbo, the oratory was demolished, and seven hundred persons were carried off as prisoners from there.

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County Carlow) ; and the oratory was demolished, and seven hundred persons were carried off as prisoners from thence.
1042. Cucogry O’More, lord of Leix, and others, defeated and slew Murrough mac Dowling, King of Leinster, and Donough mac Hugh, lord of Ui Bairrche, at the battle of Magh Muilceth (unidentified) in Leix.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

Rector of Carlow Church Petitions After Enemy Destroys His House

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1392

In 1392 Richard Wals, aged Rector of Carlow Church, petitioned the Lord Justice for assistance after the enemy had destroyed his house, goods, and grain; he was granted £10.

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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
In this year, too, Thomas Wavertoun was Vicar of the Church of Carlow.6

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 220

Rory O'More's inheritance lands and abbeys at Stradbally and Leix

Stradbally · town · Laois · 1566

The inquisition records that Rory O'More held the town of Stradbally with its appurtenances in right of his captainship, worth ten pounds yearly, and had use and profits of the Abbey of Stradbally and the Abbey of Leyse by sufferance from the Pope.

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To the second, that the said Borye was Capten of Leyse aforesaid at the tyme of his death, and that he had no more lands in possession in Bight of his Captenshipe as O More but only the towne of Stradballye with thappurtenances,|eing unto hym yerly worth ten pounds lawfull monye of Ireland. And further that the customes duties perquisites & profits that the said Bprye had in Bight & belonging to his Captenshipe of Leise aforesaid was to hym every yeare worth one hundrith pounds currant and lawfull nttnye of Ireland.
To the third, that the said Borye had at the tyme of his death in his owne seisen of his owne proper inheritance, & not as Capten these townes folowing, that is to saye Dyrrbroke and the Great Wood with their appurtenances, Uwyloghcomer, both the Collennaghes, viz. Collennaghe & Collenaghemore, Dysarte Eneys, Carrickeneparkye. Ballyknockane, Graignehoyn, and the hole parishe of Tullorye, which lands were unto hym yerly worthe threscore & ten marks lawfull monye of Ireland.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 72

Ruins of Killerrig Church on Carlow-Kildare border

Killerrig · townland · Carlow

The ancient church of Killerrig stands beside the public road, with much of the visible ruin comparatively modern but the chancel end showing venerable antiquity. Bishop Comerford recorded detailed measurements of the surviving gable and window taken from Ordnance Survey Letters.

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rpHE rains of the ancient church of Killerrig, in the County J- Carlow and on the borders of the County Kildare, must have been an object of great interest from an antiquarian point of view when the Normans invaded Ireland, and now, after centuries of wind and rain and sunshine have passed over it, it still holds up its head to remind us of the history of a past that was not without its glories. It stands by the side of the public road. The greater part of the ruins is of comparatively modern date, and may have been used for Divine Service at no distant period ; but the chancel end bears every appearance of the most venerable antiquity. According to the measurements given by the Most Rev. Bishop Comerford, and taken by him from the Ordnance Survey Letters, “ This gable is now reduced to the height of 11 feet in breadth, 16 feet at ground. There is a window in it which is on the inside 2 feet B inches wide, 5 feet high, and of a quadrangular form, the centre at top being inclined to an arched shape, the window being 2 feet 11 inches high to its spring.” The recess in the thickness of the wall in which the window is situated may be said to be covered by a “ flat arch,” so slight is the inclination to an arch at the entrance, which arch seems to have been partly supported by an oak beam. The place where the oak beam rested under the arch can be seen in the illustration.
This ancient church lies as the crow flies about three-quarters of an English mile from tbe site of the Preceptory of the Knights Hospitallers of St. John of Jerusalem, and was included in their possessions.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 111

Ruins of Maynooth Castle scarred by rebellion

Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1682

Maynooth is noted as a market town containing the remains of an ancient pile, venerable in its ruins, which suffered severely from enemy assault during the last Rebellion.

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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

As you pass through Maynooth, you are in one of the chief market towns of Kildare. Here you can see the remains of an ancient pile, venerable in its ruins, which did, in the words of the source,

Second Lynch memorial cross preserved at Summerhill demesne

Summerhill · street · Meath · 1554–1657

Lord Langford preserved on his grounds a portion of a similarly inscribed cross shaft bearing the arms of Peter Lynch and his wife Elizabeth Thunder. The author believes this cross originally stood by the ancient highway passing close to Lynch's castle, within what is now the enclosed Summerhill demesne.

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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

Sherlockstown family arms and notable descendants

Sherlockstown · townland · Kildare · 1748

The Sherlock family of Sherlockstown produced notable churchmen including William Sherlock, Dean of St. Paul's, and his son Dr. Thomas Sherlock, Bishop of London, both believed to be of Irish descent from this family based on identical heraldic arms.

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of Winwick. He was one of those who never shaved his beard after the execution of Charles the First. His portrait is still preserved in the Rectory at Winwick. He was the author of a well-known book on the religious life, and is said to have been uncle of the celebrated Bishop Wilson of the Isle of Man. Among the notables who were also members of this family we reckon William Sherlock, Dean of St. Paul’s, and his betterknown son, Dr. Thomas Sherlock, Bishop successively of Bangor, Salisbury, and London (1748), who were of Irish descent, and probably both of these distinguished theological writers were of the Sherlockstown family, as they bore identically the same arms, viz., “ Argent and azure per pale, three fleurs-de-lis countercharged.” A member of the County Wexford Scurlocks (or Sherlocks) settled in Cardigan about 1598. His grandson, John, settled in Carmarthen, and had a daughter, Mary, who married Sir Richard Steele. On returning to Wales this branch of the family re-adopted the original coat-of-arms of the Grower Scurlags, viz., “Argent, three bars gules.” This family is now extinct. The Grower Scurlags intermarried with the families of Pennard, Stackpole, and Maunsel. Nor must we leave the men of Grower without mentioning one leading characteristic of the inhabitants of that peninsula. As became borderers, dwelling very much in an enemy’s country, they were sturdy fighting men. Of the two thousand men of Glamorganshire who fought at the Battle of Falkirk, no less than three hundred went from the little district of Gower.
M

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 122

The pass of Agher and Agherpallis as an entrenched camp

Agher · townland · Meath · 1647

A marsh valley near Agher was traversed by two passes, 'the pass of Agher' and 'the pass of Ardrums'; Agherpallis was practically an island surrounded by bog and was considered by military observers in 1647 an almost impregnable position for an entrenched camp.

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He was particularly fond of horses, and was a remarkably successful breeder ; and it is interesting to note that his direct descendant, the present respected proprietor of Agher, still breeds with success from mares of the same stock, and has in his possession the ring worn by his ancestor, which is also represented in his portrait still hanging in Trinity College. There are no antiquarian remains at Agher. The old parish church, marked as a ruin on Petty’s map, has been completely uprooted, and a very neat Protestant church, erected about 180B, stands close to its site. The ruins of the castle of Parys and the Gernons have been also cleared away ; but its site is marked by an artificial mound placed about 120 perches east of the modern mansion, and overlooks a valley separating this portion of Agher from Coole. This valley, now well drained by a stream that forms one of the headwaters of the Bye Water river, wras formerly a marsh traversed by two passes, one of which was called “ the pass of Agher,” and was commanded by the castle. The other lay away to the south, probably on the present road from Agher to Ardrums, and was called “ the pass of Ardrums.” In those days Agherpallis was practically an island surrounded by bog, and was considered by military observers in 1647 as an almost impregnable position for an entrenched camp. To this feature I shall refer later on when dealing with the history of Summerhill.
{To be continued.)

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 150

Tully preceptory, important and wealthy, host to chapters

Tully · parish · Kildare · 1300–1399

The Hospitaller preceptory of Tully, near Kildare, was important and wealthy, intended for the protection of the town, and numerous chapters of the Order were held there during the fourteenth century.

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The preceptory of Tully was important and wealthy, and was no doubt intended for the protection of Kildare; and numerous chapters of the Order were held there in the fourteenth century.
When we ask what sort of life was led in these semi-military, semi- ecclesiastical establishments, we are told that in a complete establishment there would be a Receiver or Preceptor, either a Knight or Esquire or Chaplain of the Order, with one or two Brothers. These had, besides their military duty, the management of the estates, services of the chapels and chantries, the administration of justice, and maintenance of hospitality. Beneath these were a steward, porter, chaplains, chamberlains, squires, foresters, cooks, bakers, stablemen, a brewer, and various herds, pages, and a washerwoman. In a large establishment there seem to have been three tables — one for the Preceptor and brothers, and some of the chaplains, and the higher class of guests ; a second for the chamberlain and free servants ; and a third for the ordinary servants. Besides their board, they had yearly wages, and some of them an allowance for the dress of the Order.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 80

As the companion tells it

As you pass through the parish of Tully, near Kildare, you are travelling by the site of a Hospitaller preceptory that was both important and wealthy. It was intended for the protection of Kildare, and numerous chapters of the Order were held there during the fourteenth century. Life in such an establishment was semi-military and semi-ecclesiastical. A preceptor, either a knight, esquire, or chaplain of the Order, governed with one or two brothers, and together they managed the estates, served the chapels and chantries, administered justice, and maintained hospitality. Beneath them worked a steward, porter, chaplains, chamberlains, squires, foresters, cooks, bakers, stablemen, a brewer, and various herds, pages, and a washerwoman. A large establishment had three tables, one for the preceptor and brothers and higher guests, a second for the chamberlain and free servants, and a third for the ordinary servants. They received board and yearly wages, and some had an allowance for the dress of the Order.

Twelfth-Century Knight's Effigy Rescued at Timolin Churchyard

Timolin · townland · Kildare · 1898–1908

A grant was made to move the twelfth-century knight's effigy in Timolin Churchyard to a raised base in the church porch for security. The effigy had previously been described as lying in melancholy surroundings, and an antiquarian had urged its rescue and removal to a place of greater protection from the weather.

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At the January Meeting last year a grant not exceeding £8 was made to enable the twelfth-century knight’s effigy in Timolin Churchyard to be moved and placed in security on a raised base in the church porch. A full illustrated account of this unique monument appeared in The Journal in 1898 (vol. i, p. 131), w7hen Mr. A. Hartshorne, f.s.a., one of the greatest authorities on early monumental effigies, wrote: “It is surely a matter of good omen that, in consequence of the formation of the County Kildare Archaeological Society, attention has been so soon called to a military figure in the County of so remarkable a character. Finally a stranger may venture to express a hope that, as in the case of the Northamptonshire Forester, the effigy of the Kildare Knight may be rescued from its melancholy surroundings and removed to a place of greater security, where its valuable details will be alike protected from the weather and available for study.” A suggestion to have this work carried out was brought before the Society shortly afterwards by Sir Arthur Vicars, who had had the monument cleared and rendered visible for the first time ; but it was not then agreed to. We are glad now to report that this excellent work has at last been done under the supervision of Lord Mayo, Lord Walter FitzGerald, and the Rev. J. S. Long, thus adding another to the praiseworthy works of salvage of antiquities carried out by the Society.
The Council wish to express their thanks to the Duke of Leinster for his generosity in defraying the cost of illustrating

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 94

Victory of Ath-dubh (Blackford) over the English

Blackford · townland · Laois · 1404

In 1404 Gillapatrick O'More, lord of Leix, gained a victory at Ath-dubh, now Blackford between Athy and Stradbally, over the English, killing many and taking great spoil in horses, arms and armour.

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1404. The victory of Ath-dubh (now Blackford, between Athy
and Stradbally) was gained by GKllapatrick O’More, lord of Leix, over the English, where many persons were slain, and great spoil was taken in horses, arms, and armour.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 25

Jones musters forces at the Hill of Skreen, 1647

Skreen · townland · Meath · 1647

On 4th August 1647, Colonel Jones, having marched from Dublin via Swords and Garristown, reached the Hill of Skreen in Meath where he was joined by Northern forces from Drogheda and Dundalk garrisons before advancing on Preston.

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(3 Jib.) . Taking the Northern road by Swords and Garristown, he reached the Hill of Skreen in Meath on 4th August. There he was met by the Northern forces, amounting to 700 horse and 1,200 foot, and two guns, all furnished by the garrison of Drogheda, under Sir Henry Tichbourne, and by that of Dundalk under Colonel Moor, while Colonel Conway brought a mixed contingent of English and Scots. The combined battalions mustered on the plain between Macetown and Tara, and were found to number in all 1,500 horse and 5,000 foot. A detailed account of Jones’s movements from 1st to 10th August is given in the official despatches of Matthew Rowe, Secretary to the Parliamentary Commissioners in Ireland, which was subsequently sent to the Derby House Committee, with a covering letter from Jones.1

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 293

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Skreen, Colonel Jones reached the Hill of Skreen on 4 August 1647, having taken the northern road by Swords and Garristown. There he was met by Northern forces amounting to 700 horse and 1,200 foot, and two guns, furnished by the garrison of Drogheda under Sir Henry Tichbourne and by that of Dundalk under Colonel Moor, while Colonel Conway brought a mixed contingent of English and Scots. The combined battalions mustered on the plain between Macetown and Tara, and were found to number in all 1,500 horse and 5,000 foot. A detailed account of Jones's movements from 1 to 10 August was given in the official despatches of Matthew Rowe, Secretary to the Parliamentary Commissioners in Ireland, later sent to the Derby House Committee with a covering letter from Jones.

Ormonde Crosses at Athgarvan Ford to Attack Castlemartin, 1646

near Athgarvan · townland · Kildare · 1646

In March 1646, Ormonde, commanding the Parliamentary army, crossed the Liffey at the Athgarvan ford and attacked the rebels holding Castlemartin.

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In March, 1646, Ormonde, in command of the Parliamentary army, crossed the Liffey by Athgarvan ford, and attacked the rebels in Castlemartin.
The present bridge at Kilcullen is not the one that “ the worthy prelate ” built in 1818. That, like many another, was destroyed by the ravages of war, and when in 1644 Ormonde quartered his troops at Ballymore, and Sir Fred. Willoughby’s detachment crossed the river, they had to go by the ford. It gives us a vivid idea of the horrible state to which the country was reduced at that time, when we read that only two thatched houses stood in Kilcullen, and the troops could find no quarters there.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 205

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Athgarvan, in March 1646, Ormonde led the Parliamentary army across the Liffey by the ford here and attacked the rebels holding Castlemartin. The land around here gives a sense of how broken the country was by then. A couple of years earlier, in 1644, when Ormonde quartered his troops at Ballymore and Sir Frederick Willoughby's detachment crossed the river, they too had to use the ford. At that time only two thatched houses stood in Kilcullen, and the troops could find no quarters there.

Maynooth yields to Confederate garrison, 1647

Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1647

Maynooth surrendered to Preston's advancing Confederate army and was occupied by an Irish garrison before he moved to besiege Trim before the end of July 1647.

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advance should be made without delay towards the Parliamentary quarters in Kildare and Meath, to prevent the inhabitants making terms with the enemy, and to secure the markets and supplies.1 On 25th June the army had moved to Monasterevan, and remained in camp until the second week in July. Preston then advanced over the Curragh of Kildare 2 in the direction of Naas, and on 11th July crossed the Liffey and encamped about a mile west of Jigginstown, having sent out parties to occupy Harristown and Coghlanstown, which were immediately abandoned by the enemy.3 The camping ground was well chosen, and inaccessible from the front except through a bog traversed by a narrow togher, which was easily commanded from the higher position of the camp. In the early morning of 12tli July Preston awoke to find Jones with about 500 horse and 2,000 foot4 drawn up beyond the bog. This intrepid commander had marched out from Dublin to reconnoitre his enemy, and, if possible, by feigning a retreat, to lure some detached pursuers into a trap.5 He was beaten off with some loss, and the pursuit was not pressed beyond Johnstown Inn. Naas immediately surrendered, and was garrisoned by Preston, who now marched towards Meath, sweeping all before him. In Dublin there were grave apprehensions after Jones’s defeat. Sir Patrick Wemys wrote on 17th July to Sir Philip Perceval : — “ We are in no condition to meddle with our powerful enemy, who carry all before them. They have taken all our garrisons towards the Naas, have put men into your house (Castlewarden), are now before Maynooth, and will undoubtedly this week spoil all our quarters and coop us up in this city, where there is nothing but jealousies and fears.”6 Maynooth in its turn yielded, and was occupied by an Irish garrison, and before the end of July Preston had laid siege to Trim. The importance of this position— the only inland town in Leinster that was now held for the Parliament — made an attempt to relieve it imperative ; and, notwithstanding the misgivings of his friends, Jones was equal to the occasion. He lost no time in arranging a junction with his Ulster allies, and on Sunday, 1st August, marched out from Dublin with two regiments of horse, 8,800 foot, two culverins (161b. -201b.), two demi-culverins (91b. -121b.), one saker (51b.), and four sakerets

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 292

As the companion tells it

You're passing through Maynooth now, a town in Kildare. In the summer of 1647, the Confederate general Preston led his army across the Curragh toward Naas, brushing aside Parliamentary resistance. After taking Naas and garrisoning it, he swept on through Kildare and Meath, and by mid-July his forces were before Maynooth. Sir Patrick Wemys, writing from Dublin on the 17th of July, reported that the garrisons towards Naas had all fallen and that the enemy were now before Maynooth, fearing the whole countryside would be overrun. Maynooth yielded in its turn and was occupied by an Irish garrison. Before the end of July, Preston had pushed on to lay siege to Trim, the only inland town in Leinster still held for Parliament. Trim's relief became imperative, and Jones marched out from Dublin on the 1st of August to meet the threat.

Ruins of Hore Abbey visited near Cashel railway station

Hore Abbey · ecclesiastical site · Tipperary · 1910

Some members of the Society, after touring the Cathedral and Dominican Priory at Cashel, afterwards visited the ruins of Hore Abbey, situated in the low ground near the railway station.

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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

171 free burgesses recorded in Carlow

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1279–1294

At this period the town of Carlow must have been of considerable extent, as there were no fewer than 171 free burgesses in it, with receipts from ferries over the Barrow indicating many traders.

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“At this time the town must have been of considerable extent, as there were no fewer than 171 free burgesses in it. The receipts from ferries over the Barrow indicate the existence of many traders. The need, too, of bridges at Carlow, over the Barrow and Burren, was much felt, and pressure was put upon the townsmen to build or perhaps rebuild them ; for their neglect fines were imposed on the community of the burgh of Carlow.
“The income of the lordship averaged £750 a year, and the cost of management of the estate averaged about £250 a year, including the Seneschal’s salary of £100 ; the bulk of the remainder was transferred to the Earl in England.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 219

Act of Absentees forfeits Carlow signories to the Crown

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1537

At a Parliament assembled on 1 May 1537, the Act of Absentees forfeited to the Crown properties of absentee owners, including the ancient inheritance of the signories and lordships of Catherlagh held by the Duke of Norfolk and Lord Berkeley.

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In time the great English families who inherited Irish estates so neglected their properties, that their castles became ruinous, and their tenants impoverished ; the Irish, too, entered unchecked into the Pale, and committed such robberies and burnings that the lands became waste ; at last, to such an extent had the abuse become, that, at a Parliament assembled on the 1st May, 1537, an Act was passed, known as the Act of Absentees, which forfeited to the Crown the properties whose owners were absentees ; among the names of other defaulters appear those of “ the noble prince Thomas Howard, Duke of Norfolk, and the lord Berkeley, his coparcioner in their ancient inheritance of the signories and lordships of Catherlagh.” Hence from this period the County Carlow became Crown property and was divided among different families, though those sub-tenants and knights who formerly paid rent and rendered service to the lord of the manor, now did so to the Crown instead.
We will now deal with the historical events which occurred in or near the Castle of Carlow.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 217

Bodkin Coat-of-Arms Slab at Lynch's Castle, Galway

Lynch's Castle · castle · Galway

The Bodkin coat-of-arms slab is inserted in an exterior wall of the building locally misnamed 'Lynch's Castle', standing at the corner of Abbey-gate Street, described as the last inhabited survival of the grand mansions that formerly existed in the 'Citie of ye Tribes'.

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The Bodkin coat-of-arms slab is inserted in an exterior wall of the building locally misnamed “Lynch’s Castle,” which still stands at the corner of Abbey-gate Street, and which is the last inhabited survival of the grand mansions which formerly existed in the “ Citie of ye Tribes.”
The Earl of Kildare’s Tomb, now at St. Werburgh’s Church, Dublin.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 323

As the companion tells it

Right here is the Bodkin coat-of-arms slab, set into the wall of the building people call Lynch's Castle, at the corner of Abbeygate Street. It's the last lived-in survivor of the grand mansions that once stood in the 'Citie of ye Tribes.' The name Lynch's Castle is a local misnomer — the arms belong to Bodkin, not Lynch.

Castledermot's former role as a parliament town

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1682

Castledermot, or Tristledermot, is described in 1682 as a small market town that had formerly been capable of receiving Parliaments summoned there.

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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

Castlewarden occupied by Confederate forces, 1647

Castlewarden · townland · Dublin · 1647

Sir Patrick Wemys wrote from Dublin on 17th July 1647 in alarm that Confederate forces had taken garrisons towards Naas and put men into Castlewarden (Sir Philip Perceval's house), and were then before Maynooth.

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advance should be made without delay towards the Parliamentary quarters in Kildare and Meath, to prevent the inhabitants making terms with the enemy, and to secure the markets and supplies.1 On 25th June the army had moved to Monasterevan, and remained in camp until the second week in July. Preston then advanced over the Curragh of Kildare 2 in the direction of Naas, and on 11th July crossed the Liffey and encamped about a mile west of Jigginstown, having sent out parties to occupy Harristown and Coghlanstown, which were immediately abandoned by the enemy.3 The camping ground was well chosen, and inaccessible from the front except through a bog traversed by a narrow togher, which was easily commanded from the higher position of the camp. In the early morning of 12tli July Preston awoke to find Jones with about 500 horse and 2,000 foot4 drawn up beyond the bog. This intrepid commander had marched out from Dublin to reconnoitre his enemy, and, if possible, by feigning a retreat, to lure some detached pursuers into a trap.5 He was beaten off with some loss, and the pursuit was not pressed beyond Johnstown Inn. Naas immediately surrendered, and was garrisoned by Preston, who now marched towards Meath, sweeping all before him. In Dublin there were grave apprehensions after Jones’s defeat. Sir Patrick Wemys wrote on 17th July to Sir Philip Perceval : — “ We are in no condition to meddle with our powerful enemy, who carry all before them. They have taken all our garrisons towards the Naas, have put men into your house (Castlewarden), are now before Maynooth, and will undoubtedly this week spoil all our quarters and coop us up in this city, where there is nothing but jealousies and fears.”6 Maynooth in its turn yielded, and was occupied by an Irish garrison, and before the end of July Preston had laid siege to Trim. The importance of this position— the only inland town in Leinster that was now held for the Parliament — made an attempt to relieve it imperative ; and, notwithstanding the misgivings of his friends, Jones was equal to the occasion. He lost no time in arranging a junction with his Ulster allies, and on Sunday, 1st August, marched out from Dublin with two regiments of horse, 8,800 foot, two culverins (161b. -201b.), two demi-culverins (91b. -121b.), one saker (51b.), and four sakerets

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 292

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Confederate forces moved through in the summer of 1647. Preston's army crossed the Curragh of Kildare toward Naas in early July, and by the 11th they had crossed the Liffey and encamped about a mile west of Jigginstown. Naas surrendered and was garrisoned. In Dublin there were grave fears after Jones was beaten off with some loss. On 17th July 1647 Sir Patrick Wemys wrote to Sir Philip Perceval with alarm: "They have taken all our garrisons towards the Naas, have put men into your house"—this house being Castlewarden—"are now before Maynooth, and will undoubtedly this week spoil all our quarters and coop us up in this city." Maynooth yielded next, and before the end of July Preston had laid siege to Trim, the only inland town in Leinster still held for Parliament.

Clane ford and castle remains at Blackhall

Clane · town · Kildare

Clane was one of the most important fords on the Liffey, deriving its name from Cluain Ath, the ford of the meadow. A castle was built at the head of the ford to guard the passage, some remains of which survive in the stable-yard of Blackhall.

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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

Excursion to the Rock of Cashel, 1910

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

The Society's Annual Excursion in 1910 visited the Rock of Cashel with its ancient ecclesiastical buildings, then in charge of the Board of Works, marking the first time the excursion was held outside Kildare's district.

Read the passage

The Annual Excursion of the above Society took place on Wednesday, August 17th, on one of the few fine days with which we have this summer been favoured. The object was the famous “Rock of Cashel,” with its unique group of ancient ecclesiastical buildings, now in charge of the Board of Works
Among the members present were

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 281

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Rock of Cashel, you are near the famous rock with its unique group of ancient ecclesiastical buildings, in charge of the Board of Works. In 1910, on Wednesday, August 17th, the County Kildare Archaeological Society held its annual excursion here, on one of the few fine days that summer. It was the first time the excursion was held outside Kildare's district.

Grant of Powerscourt manors to Pierce Talbot in 1587

Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow · 1587

On 23 September 1587 the Crown granted the Manors of Powerscourt, Fassaghroe, and Rathdown to Pierce (or Peter) Talbot, second son of Robert Talbot of Belgard.

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On the 23rd September, 1587, a grant of the Manors of Powerscourt, Fassaghroe, and Bathdown was made by the Crown to Pierce (or Peter) Talbot, of “ Kilmahioke,” near Dublin,2 who was the second son of Robert Talbot, of Belgard, by his wife, Margaret, daughter of (?) Sir Robert Eustace, Kt., of Ballvcutland, now Coglanstown, in the County Kildare.3 An Edward VI Fiant (No. 268) records the pardon in 1549 of the same individual, wherein he is described as “ Peter Talbot, of Sliankill or Fassaugheroo, Gent., son of Robert Talbot, late of Belgarde.”
In the meanwhile the O'Tooles appear to have been pardoned for the part they took in the Silken Thomas’s rebellion, as in 1540 the head of the clan reappears as petitioning the King for a regrant of a portion of the clan’s territory in Fercullen. The chief of the sept at this period was Tirlagh mac Art mac Edmond O’Toole, who, in addition to Fercullen, formerly held

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 105

Narraghmore Mansion Described in 1748 Tour

Narraghmore · townland · Kildare · 1748

A writer touring Ireland in 1748 described the mansion of Narraghmore, seat of Maurice Keating, as a spacious, lofty building seated on an eminence with gardens to match. The owner was praised for his generous and open hospitality.

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Maurice Keating, of Narraghmore, County Kildare, was second but eldest surviving son of Maurice Keating, of Narraghmore (M.P. Athy, 1695-9; 1703-18; 1713-14; 1715-27), by Anne, dau. of Dr. Thomas Margetson. He was born February, 1690, and succeeded his father in 1727. He was a Commissioner of the Tillage Act for Leinster ; was returned as M.P. for Kildare Borough in 1715, but was unseated ; represented Kildare Borough, 1725-27 ; Naas, 1761 to 1768; and was returned for the Borough of Kildare in 1769. A writer in 1748 describes the mansion of Narraghmore as “ a spacious, lofty building, seated on an eminence,” with gardens “ answerable to the rest.” Of the owner he says, “ His entertainment is generous, open and free, with such an amiable familiarity as renders a new pleasure to the whole.” In 1766 Mr. Keating sold to the Duke of Leinster for £10,887 St. John’s Priory, Athy, and the lands adjoining, which his father had purchased in 1715 for £6,147.
He married Elizabeth, eldest dau. of James Waller, of Castletown, County Limerick, and died 17th November, 1769, leaving issue : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 314

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Narraghmore, a traveller in 1748 wrote of the mansion here as "a spacious, lofty building, seated on an eminence," with gardens "answerable to the rest." The owner was Maurice Keating, born in February 1690, who had succeeded his father in 1727. He served as a Commissioner of the Tillage Act for Leinster and sat as an MP for Kildare Borough and Naas at various points across his career. The 1748 writer praised his hospitality, saying, "His entertainment is generous, open and free, with such an amiable familiarity as renders a new pleasure to the whole." In 1766 Keating sold St. John's Priory in Athy and its adjoining lands to the Duke of Leinster for £10,887, lands his father had bought in 1715 for £6,147. He married Elizabeth, eldest daughter of James Waller of Castletown, County Limerick, and died on the 17th of November 1769.

Rebel plan to muster at Knockardagur and attack Kilkenny

Knockardagur · townland · Laois · 1599

It was reported that the rebels intended to assemble at 'Knocke Arde O'Gurry' (Knockardagur) in Gallin to attack the town of Kilkenny following the relief of Maryborough Fort.

Read the passage

In the following month (January, 1599) the Fort was relieved by the Earl of Ormond ; on this occasion during the fighting which took place on the 11th, 12th, and 13th of January, 254 of the Irish are reported as being slain, executed, or wounded. On the 15th January, William Hartpole, Constable of Carlow Castle, wrote from that place to the Earl that the day he marched away from Maryborough (12th January) “that most dangerous traitor Lysagh oge O’More was buried ” ; and that it was the intention of the rebels to assemble at “ Knocke Arde O’Gurry” (Knockardagur) in Gallin and attack his town of Kilkenny.1
Lysagh oge, here mentioned, was slain “ at the Rede Moor,” probably while opposing Ormond’s march to Maryborough ; he was one of the chief leaders under Owny mac Rory.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 51

St. Brendan's Well Patterns at Tubbrid, Ardfert

Tubbrid · townland · Kerry

At St. Brendan's Well in Tubbrid, parish of Ardfert, Pattherns (patron day gatherings) were held on the last Saturday in April and on the Saturdays before St. John the Baptist's Festival and Michaelmas Day.

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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

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Tubbrid is St. Brendan's Well, where people gathered for what were called Pattherns. These were patron day gatherings at a blessed well, held on fixed days through the year. Here at Tubbrid in the parish of Ardfert, county Kerry, the Pattherns took place on the last Saturday in April, and on the Saturdays before St. John the Baptist's Festival on the 24th of June and Michaelmas Day on the 29th of September.

Ancient Liffey Fords Marking the English Pale Boundary

Bodenstown · townland · Kildare · 1509–1547

The River Liffey formed the western boundary of Bodenstown parish and, in the reign of Henry VIII, marked the boundary of the English Pale beyond which English law did not run. Ancient fords at each extremity of the parish are now marked by handsome bridges.

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The district round, though with little of the picturesque, has some points of interest; and the valley of the Liffey, which forms the western boundary of the parish, has a good deal of gentle beauty. The Liffey here was, in the reign of Henry VIII, the boundary of the English Pale : that is to say, the English law did not run beyond it. Towards each extremity of the parish there was an ancient ford over the Liffey. These are now marked by handsome bridges. The ford lower down the stream
1 This was written some years ago. Since then a new headstone has been erected ; the railing has been repaired and painted ; and the grave is now well cared for by the County Kildare Gaelic Association,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 155

Ballysax manor and ruinous tower recorded in 1307 inquisition

Ballysax · parish · Kildare · 1307

An inquisition taken at Carlow in 1307 found that the manor of Ballysax included a tower in bad and ruinous condition, a small wooden grange covered with straw, arable land, meadow, pasture, a garden with a cottage, and a mill site, with total profits valued at £22.6.6.

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At Ballysax, a tower in bad condition and ruinous, and a small, wooden grange, covered with straw : also sixteen acres of arable land in demesne under the plough of the lord ; fourteen acres of land, Balysothenan ; 15 Ij acres of land at Radley; and 52 acres of land at Mothyl, which Hugh the chaplain formerly held. There is there a garden with a cottage containing 3 acres, whereof the pasture and fruit are worth 2s a year, also 9 acres of meadow, and 12 acres of pasture called Oxlese. The total profits of which come to £18. .2. .4.
Free tenants by rent. Thomas Brun holds there 1 carucate of land. There are in the vill of Balysax certain tenants who hold 4 carucates of land of the feoffment of Roger Bygod ; also the site of a mill which cannot be valued. Total, £22. .6. .6.1

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 84

Brian Boru encamps at Slieve Margy

Slievemargy · barony · Laois · 1012

In 1012 AD, amid war between the Leinstermen, Danes and Brian Boru, Brian encamped at Slieve Margy to defend Munster before plundering Leinster as far as Dublin.

Read the passage

1012. The Leinstermen and foreigners (i.e., Danes) were at war with Brian (Boru), Monarch of Ireland ; and Brian encamped at Slieve Margy to defend Munster ; and Leinster was plundered by him as far as Ath-Cliath (Dublin).
1014. Kennedy, son of Farrell, lord of Leix, died.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 19

Brian reagh O'More slain at the Battle of the Camagh near Ballyfin

Ballyfin · townland · Laois · 1598

Brian reagh mac Rory oge O'More was slain at the Battle of the Camagh, near Ballyfin, Queen's County, on the 10th July 1598.

Read the passage

Slain at the Battle of the Camagh, near Ballyfin, Queen’s CO., on the 10th July, 1598.
[Cal. of State Papers, Ire., 1598-9, p. 213.]

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 74

Burgage churchyard and ruined church tower mistaken for a castle

Burgage · parish · Wicklow

The excursion party reached the churchyard now called Burgage, anciently known as Donaghemlagh. Its only surviving remains, an ivy-clad church tower, is erroneously marked as a castle on Ordnance Survey Maps, though the party noted a wide fireplace showing it had once housed clergy or officials.

Read the passage

The only existing remains of Burgage Church is a dilapidated ivy-clad church tower, erroneously called <£ a castle,” and as such marked down on the Ordnance Survey Maps (a castle never yet was built in a burial-ground). The party closely examined the church tower, and it was noticed that it contained a wide fire-place on the second story, showing that it was inhabited in former times by the clergy or their officials. The only other object of interest in the place was a high, plain, granite cross, with a ringed though unperforated head, possibly dating three or four hundred years back.
The return journey was made to Poulaphooka by a different road, passing a blessed well on the right-hand side, shortly after restarting, which is known as “ St. Mathus’s Well.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 176

As the companion tells it

Up here in the parish of Burgage in Wicklow, there is a churchyard anciently known as Donaghemlagh. All that survives of the church is a dilapidated, ivy-clad tower, wrongly marked as a castle on the Ordnance Survey Maps, though a castle was never built in a burial-ground. A wide fireplace on the second story shows it was once lived in by clergy or their officials. The only other object of interest noted here was a high, plain granite cross with a ringed but unperforated head, possibly dating back 3 or 400 years.

Carlow Castle's roof and hall in constant disrepair

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1279–1294

The Castle of Carlow was the centre of government for the Bigod estates, but its great hall roof, made of wooden shingles fastened by nails and sourced from the wood of Dunleckny, was a constant source of trouble needing repair, with timber brought from Dunleckny, Tullow, and Athy.

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“ The centre of government was the Castle of Carlow. The repairs to it form frequent items of expenditure. The roof of the great hall adjoining the castle in which the courts were held was a source of frequent trouble, needing constant repair. It was roofed with wooden shingles. The shingles were bored and fastened by nails to the roof ; they were made in the wood of Dunleckny.
“ Timber, boards, and laths were, from time to time, brought from Dunleckny, Tullow, and Athy, for the repair of the hall and other portions ot the castle, the kitchen and prison .

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 219

Carlow described as the 'Irish Montpelier'

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1680

Dineley describes Carlow town as situated between the rivers Barrow and Burren, with two fair bridges, on rising ground, so healthful that it was called the Irish Montpelier by several people.

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“The Town isscituate upon and hath the benefit of two rivers, viz. — the Barrow and the Burren, between which it is. It hath two fair bridges, is upon a riseing ground, so healthfull that by severall I have heard it called ye Irish Montpelier.
“The Church is fair also in its kind. It is served by a Reverend Worthy Gentleman, Mr Thomas Weston, heretofore a student of the Middle Temple, London.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 247

Castle of Timahoe built for Meyler FitzHenry

Timahoe · townland · Laois · 1200

Around 1200 Hugh de Lacy, Governor of Ireland, built a castle at Timahoe in Leix for Meyler FitzHenry, grandson of Henry I.

Read the passage

About this time Hugh de Lacy, Governor of Ireland, built a Castle at Timahoe in Leix for Meyler FitzHenry.
1227. Gilla-colum O’Molloy, lord of Fircall (a district in the King’s County), was slain by O’More.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 22

Croboy castle and lands inherited by Christopher Lynch

Croboy · townland · Meath · 1554–1558

Peter Lynch's will (he died c.1554-8) provided that his second son Christopher should have Croboy to dwell upon during his life, once a lease held by Walter Nugent ended. The Croboy property comprised a castle, three messuages, and eighty acres held from the Crown as part of the Royal Manor of Trim.

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The second son, Christopher, he thus provides for : — “I will he (Christopher) shall have as principalis the best dozen of sylvyr sponys that I have, the Salt which I have, which is of sylvyr gilt, a garnish of the best pewter veshels I have, and also to have the best chief and principale thing of all Manner of goods (jewels, plate, chattels things and things whatsoever they bee that I shall have at the tyme of my death — Also I wyll that Christophr JLynce, my second son, shall have Croboy to dwell upon during his life, as soon as Walter Nugents lease is ended, he paieing such rent as Walter Nugent paieth tlieyrout.”
In Croboy the property consisted of a castle, three messuages, and eighty acres of meadow and pasture land, held in fee from the Crown as part of the Royal Manor of Trim, by fealty and military service, or the rent of 6s. 8d. as scutage ran.4 This holding of Croboy is found under a later Chancery Inquisition5 to contain 200 acres of arable land, and as a forfeited estate is returned as comprising 691 Irish acres,6 the previous surveys

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 189

Danes plunder Clonenagh monastery

Clonenagh · townland · Laois · 840

In 840 AD, the Danes (foreigners) plundered Cluain-Eidhneach, the early monastic site of Clonenagh, as recorded in the Annals of the Four Masters.

Read the passage

840. The plundering of Cluain-Eidhneach (i.e., Clonenagh) by the foreigners (i.e., Danes).
848. Dun-Masg (i.e., the Bock of Dunamase) was plundered by the foreigners.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 18

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Vikings plundered the monastery of Clonenagh in 840. The Annals of the Four Masters record it as the plundering of Cluain-Eidhneach by the foreigners, the Danes. Nothing more of the event survives.

Discipline denied at Fort of Maryborough garrison

Maryborough · townland · Laois · 1549

Captains Henry Wise and John Moorton denied charges of lax discipline at the Fort, stating no women had entered since the Constable's departure, no debauchery had occurred at Christmas, no mutiny from food scarcity, and only three pairs of bolts were kept in the fort for prisoners.

Read the passage

As mentioned above, the present Queen’s County, with the exception of the Upper Ossory Baronies, was formed in the year 1556, during the reign of Queen Mary, in whose honour it received its name. In a similar manner the principal fort, or castle of the new settlement, hitherto known as “ the Protector of Leix,” was re-named “ Maryborough ” ; by the Irish this fort was called “ Campa.” It is first mentioned in 1548, at which time the building of it appears to have been completed, as it is reported to have been victualled, and the musters of the country were assembled at it.1 Discipline was reported in the following year by Captain William Sentloo (or St. Loe), the Constable of the Fort, as being very lax, but two captains in the Fort — Henry Wise and John Moorton — denied the charge, and stated that no women of the country had entered the fort since the Constable’s departure ; that no debauchery had taken place at Christmas ; that no mutiny owing to scarcity of food had taken place among the garrison ; and that no favour had been shown to two soldiers who had been placed in irons on a charge of Shane O’Lalor’s, but they had been properly bailed upon sufficient surety in order that their hand-locks might be available for the safe keeping of Irish outlaws, there being but three pairs of bolts within the fort.2 In 1558 the Earl of Sussex, the Lord Deputy, reported that on the 18th of May the O’Mores and O’Connors came in great strength to the Fort of Leix, with the intention of driving off the cattle belonging to the fort; however, the Constable, Sir Henry Radcliff, issued out with sixty soldiers and thirty kerns and rescued the prey; Francis Cosby, following up the rebels, came across a party of them where they were making merry ; among them were Donough O’Connor, the son of Cormack O’Connor, that was in Scotland, and Richard oge FitzGerald. After a long fight Cormack’s son and Richard oge were slain along with thirty or forty of their followers ; “ Cosby hymself kylled Ry chard oge with his owne hands, whych wold not have been done by no man els.”3

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 33

Effigied tomb of Melaghlin O'More at Abbeyleix

Abbeyleix · town · Laois · 1502

The appendix discusses the ancestors of Melaghlin O'More, whose effigied tomb is located at Abbeyleix, dating to 1502. Three surviving medieval pedigrees were compared to trace his lineage.

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The Ancestors of Melaghlin O’More whose Effigied Tomb is at Abbeyleix.
1502.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

Felling of timber surrounding Drimnagh Castle disputed in 1618

Drimnagh · townland · Dublin · 1613–1618

After Sir Adam Loftus leased the Drimnagh property in 1613, proceedings were taken in 1618 to prevent him from felling the timber surrounding the castle, amid allegations that he sought to deprive the rightful heir of the estate.

Read the passage

It was alleged that he endeavoured to deprive the rightful owner of his estates ; hence the proceedings that were taken in 1618 to prevent, inter alia , his felling the timber surrounding the castle.
After the Battle of Rathmines (1649), the Duke of Ormonde,

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 119

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Drimnagh, Sir Adam Loftus leased the property in 1613. Five years later, proceedings were brought to stop him felling the timber surrounding the castle. It was alleged that he endeavoured to deprive the rightful owner of his estates.

FitzGerald Slab at Dingle Churchyard, 1504

Dingle · townland · Kerry · 1504

A slab bearing the arms of the Munster FitzGeralds, with a boar and griffin as supporters, lies broken in the south-eastern portion of Dingle Churchyard, dated 1504 and considered the earliest known representation of the Munster FitzGerald arms.

Read the passage

This slab lies in the south-eastern portion of the Dingle (Dangin O’ Cush) Churchyard. It measures in length 73 inches ; in breadth, at the top, 33 inches, and at the foot 20 inches ; its thickness is 4 inches. About half-way down it is broken in two.
The inscriptions do not appear to be sepulchral, but to consist of prayers or petitions in Latin ; as the greater portion of them only contain the initial letters of wrords, no satisfactory reading of them has been discovered. That portion running round the edge of the slab is very legible, but the remainder is barely discernible.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 323

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Dingle, in the churchyard, there's a slab from 1504 bearing the arms of the Munster FitzGeralds, with a boar and griffin as supporters. It's the earliest known representation of those arms. The slab measures 73 inches long, 33 inches wide at the top and 20 at the foot, 4 inches thick, and it's broken in two about halfway down. The inscriptions aren't sepulchral but seem to be prayers or petitions in Latin. Most only contain initial letters, so no satisfactory reading has been found. The lettering round the edge is legible, but the rest is barely discernible.

Forfeiture and restoration of Kildare manors after Silken Thomas rebellion

Timogue · townland · Laois · 1534–1551

These manors were forfeited to the Crown in 1534 due to the rebellion of the Silken Thomas, 10th Earl of Kildare, but were restored to Gerald, 11th Earl of Kildare, by Queen Mary in 1551.

Read the passage

These Manors were forfeited to the Crown in 1534, owing to the rebellion of the Silken Thomas, 10th Earl of Kildare, but were restored to Gerald, 11th Earl of Kildare, by Queen Mary in 1551.
Two Chancery Inquisitions of the Queen’s County, No. 10 of Elizabeth and No. 2 of James I, give a list of the townlands contained in these Manors ; the Manor of Timogue in the lordship of Farran- O’Kelly and territory of Leix comprised the following townlands : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

Grant and forfeiture of Dooary and Monaduff, Ballyroan parish

Ballyroan · town · Laois · 1563–1598

Kedagh mac Pierce O'More was granted the lands of Dooary and Monaduff in the Parish of Ballyroan in 1563, which were forfeited in 1598 due to the rebellion of his son and heir Shane.

Read the passage

In other cases members of the Sept obtained grants of land from the Crown, only to be again forfeited a few years later. This occurred in the case of Kedagli mac Pierce O’More, who was granted Dooary and Monaduff, in the Parish of Ballyroan, in 1563, which were forfeited in 1598 by the rebellion of his son and heir Shane.3 Murtagh oge O’More is another example. He received a grant of the lands of Raheenduff in 1563, and of those of Cremorgan in 1570 ; they, too, became forfeited to the Crown by the rebellion of his grandson, Patrick mac Lisagh O’More, in 1598. 4
On the 1 1 th January, 1597, Captain Warham Sentleger, writing from Monasterevin to the Lord Deputy, reported that Faghtna O’More, “ the best gentleman of them all but Onie (mac Rory), is hurt and not like to live. And another of Onie’s best men, called Donnell O’Doran, is also hurt. One of the Connors has been once or twice taken up from his grave near the place of skirmish, and a great moan (? keen) made for him.”5. This latter piece of news is peculiar, but the explanation may be that the corpse was exhumed for interment elsewhere.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 45

Grant and forfeiture of Raheenduff and Cremorgan

Raheenduff · townland · Laois · 1563–1598

Murtagh oge O'More received grants of the lands of Raheenduff in 1563 and Cremorgan in 1570, both later forfeited to the Crown due to the rebellion of his grandson Patrick mac Lisagh O'More in 1598.

Read the passage

In other cases members of the Sept obtained grants of land from the Crown, only to be again forfeited a few years later. This occurred in the case of Kedagli mac Pierce O’More, who was granted Dooary and Monaduff, in the Parish of Ballyroan, in 1563, which were forfeited in 1598 by the rebellion of his son and heir Shane.3 Murtagh oge O’More is another example. He received a grant of the lands of Raheenduff in 1563, and of those of Cremorgan in 1570 ; they, too, became forfeited to the Crown by the rebellion of his grandson, Patrick mac Lisagh O’More, in 1598. 4
On the 1 1 th January, 1597, Captain Warham Sentleger, writing from Monasterevin to the Lord Deputy, reported that Faghtna O’More, “ the best gentleman of them all but Onie (mac Rory), is hurt and not like to live. And another of Onie’s best men, called Donnell O’Doran, is also hurt. One of the Connors has been once or twice taken up from his grave near the place of skirmish, and a great moan (? keen) made for him.”5. This latter piece of news is peculiar, but the explanation may be that the corpse was exhumed for interment elsewhere.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 45

Harristown Castle Demolished by a La Touche

Harristown · townland · Kildare

A considerable castle of the Eustaces once stood near Harristown Station, but its remains were ruthlessly demolished by a member of the La Touche family.

Read the passage

Between Ballymore and Kilcullen are several fords. That at Ardenode is, I believe, sometimes a difficult crossing. There are two bridges at Harristown — an old one, and another between that and Sallymount. A considerable castle of the Eustaces once stood near Harristown Station, but its remains were ruthlessly demolished by a La Touche. The old road south passed through Ballymore before the building of Kilcullen Bridge took the traffic by that route. The building of the bridge had also a serious effect upon Old Kilcullen. The old town with walls and gates and church and round tower stood on a hill about a mile and a half distant, but a new town gathered round the bridge, and the old one was deserted. Hollingshead tells us that in 1318 “ a worthy prelate, Canon in the Cathedral Church of Kildare, builded the bridge to the great and daily commodities of all such as are occasioned to travel in those parts.” Kilcullen was always exposed to the chances of war, from its position on the borders of the Pale and the road between Dublin and the
Y

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 205

Henry Jones Granted Forfeited Lands Including Lynch's Knock

Bestfield or Dunganstown · townland · Carlow · 1652–1658

The Commissioners of the Commonwealth surveyed and granted to Dr. Henry Jones the townlands of Dunganstown (Dungan Hill), Knock (Lynch's Knock), and other lands, all forfeited from Irish rebels, totaling nearly 4,862 acres by English measure, dated 6th July 1658.

Read the passage

Professor Firth cites an Exchequer Warrant, dated November, 1650, authorizing “ to pay Dr. Henry Jones, late Bishop of Clogher, as Scoutmaster-General, £454 8s. for self, two agents, and twenty men for 142 days, 24 June to 12 November.*’ The receipt is signed “ Hen. Clogher.”1 His zeal and activity in his new sphere were soon apparent. He was an advocate of dealing mercilessly with the Irish enemy, and was favourably reported to Parliament for urging vindictive measures from which professional soldiers like Ludlow shrunk.2 Cromwell seems to have recognized his ability as well as his zeal, and deemed him worthy of special favour. As early as 5th December, 1650, two years before the Act of Settlement, an order issued from the Parliament of England, authorizing the Commissioners of the Commonwealth in Ireland to grant to Dr. Henry Jones and to his heirs out of the forfeited lands of the Irish rebels an estate worth £200 per annum, according to the valuation of 1641.3 “ In pursuance whereof the Commissioners of the Commonwealth of England gave their orders and instructions in writing under their hands, bearing date the 12th day of January, 1652, unto Robert Francis and Nicholas Holland, or either of them, to survey and measure the Towne and lands of Dunganstown, commonly called Dongan Hill, situated in the County of Meath, lately belonging to Hugh Hussey a Rebel outlawed and attainted of Treason ; the Towne and lands of Knock and its parcels, lately belonging to Gerald Lynds [s/c], a Rebel outlawed and attainted of Treason ; the Towne and lands of Aghir Pallis and Ballintogher, lately belonging to George Gernon, a Rebel, &c., &c. ; the Towne and lands of Clonlyon, in the parish of Kilmore, Co. of Meath, lately belonging to Christopher Fleming, a Rebel, &c. &c.; the Towns and lands of Baconstowne and Jordanstowne, in the parish of Rathcor, lately belonging to Lord Viscount Netterville,
1 Firth, “ Cromwell’s Army,” p. 65, note.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 195

Hewetson's Charity School founded at Betaghstown, moved to Millicent 1882

Betaghstown · townland · Kildare · 1770–1882

Dr. Patrick Hewetson devised his town and lands of Betaghstown, Kildare, for building and maintaining a Charity School for poor boys and girls to be instructed in the Protestant religion and bound out as apprentices. The school was transferred to a new schoolhouse at Millicent in 1882 and became known as Hewetson's School, Clane.

Read the passage

By the will of 23rd July, 1770, besides bequeathing eleven to twelve hundred pounds to twenty-four legatees, he devised to trustees, the Primate of all Ireland being one, his town and lands of Betaghstown, Kildare, together with his dwellinghouse thereon, and his town and lands ofDromcora, County Cavan, his stock of cattle, furniture, and household goods in city and county, library of books, silver-plate, rings, watches, guns, pistols, and swords, for building and maintaining a Charity School at Betaghstown for the support and yearly maintenance of poor boys and girls, who were to be lawfully instructed in the principles of the Protestant religion, in reading, writing, and arithmetic, and, when properly qualified, bound out as apprentices, with proper fees.
This school was transferred to a new schoolhouse and buildings at Millicent in 1882, and is known as “ Hewetson’s School, Clane.” The corporate body of Governors is styled the “ Governors of Hewetson’s School, Clane.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 212

Hospice at Kill founded by Thomas of Hereford

Kill · town · Kildare

A hospice was founded in Kill, endowed by Thomas of Hereford with twelve acres of land, likely managed by the Hospitallers to accommodate ordinary travellers passing through the area.

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

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is the town of Kill, in Kildare. A hospice once stood here, founded and endowed with twelve acres of land by Thomas of Hereford. It was very likely managed by the Hospitallers, set up to take in ordinary travellers passing through the area. The more distinguished guests would have been received in the preceptory buildings instead of the hospice. Kill lay near Kilteel and Tully, which sat right on the road to the south, along which there was incessant coming and going — messengers of the Lord Deputy, government officials, officers and soldiers, clergy of various ranks, and private persons travelling on business. These were practically the only places where such travellers could put up, so the accommodation must have been extensive. The castle of Kilteel itself consisted of a fortified gatehouse with two rooms above it, leading into a courtyard surrounded by domestic offices and dormitories. In the main building there were four large apartments, 26.8 feet by 20.6 feet, the lowest and top rooms vaulted and the two intermediate rooms floored, with a winding stone stair leading to them, all lighted by narrow slits.

Identification of Corraneduffe as Corrandhu hill on Toormore townland

Toormore · townland · Clare

The place-name Corraneduffe, site of the Earl of Ormond's capture, is identified as Corrandhu (the black cairn), a hill on the townland of Toormore rising east of Ballyragget in County Kilkenny.

Read the passage

1 In his “History of the Diocese of Ossory,” vol. ii, p. 103, the Rev. William Carrigan, c.c., states that “Corraneduffe” is now Corrandhu (i.e. the black cairn), the name of a hill on the townland of Toormore, which rises to the east of Ballyragget, in the Co. Kilkenny.
2 Now the County Kilkenny Barony of Fassaghdinin.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 57

Jigginstown, the 'ill-fated mansion' near Naas

Jigginstown · townland · Kildare

The Allen family descended from John Allen, described as the builder of the ill-fated mansion of Jigginstown, near Naas, County Kildare.

Read the passage

of Stillorgan, by Mary, eldest dau. of the Right Hon. Robert Fitz Gerald (and sister of Robert, 19th Earl of Kildare). According to the Stearne MSS. in Trinity College, he was born in Dublin in September, 1685. He entered the University, 1st July, 1701, and received the degree of LL.D. Aest., 1718. Probably, like the fashionables of his day, he made a grand tour of the Continent, for we find he visited the Hague in 1708. On his father’s death, 8th November, 1726, he succeeded as 2nd Viscount, taking his seat on the 25th of the same month. The family descended from John Allen, the builder of the ill-fated mansion of Jigginstown, near Naas ; but its fortunes were founded by Sir Joshua Allen, a prosperous Dublin merchant (Lord Mayor, 1678-4), who obtained grants of land in the Counties of Cork and Tipperary, under the Act of Settlement. His son John, 1st Viscount Allen, was a man of great wealth and importance, possessing extensive estates in the Counties of Wicklow, Carlow, Kildare, and Dublin. In 1703 Lord Allen added to his landed property by purchasing from the Trustees of Forfeited Estates nineteen acres in Dalkey, with four castles thereon, estate of the late King James, for £151 ; also the lands of Bullock, in the Barony of Rathdowne, County Dublin, 209 acres, estate of Richard Fagan, attainted, for £1,750. At Stillorgan he erected a mansion house, which, from pictures in the possession of the Countess of Carysfort, appears to have been of red brick, and singularly stately in appearance. The demesne, diversified with gardens, laid out in the Dutch style, and artificial water, is stated to have been of great beauty, having uninterrupted views of the bay of Dublin.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 311

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stood the ill-fated mansion of Jigginstown, near Naas. It was built by John Allen, from whom the Allen family descended. The family's fortunes were founded by Sir Joshua Allen, a prosperous Dublin merchant who obtained grants of land in Cork and Tipperary under the Act of Settlement. His son John became the 1st Viscount Allen, a man of great wealth with extensive estates across Wicklow, Carlow, Kildare, and Dublin. The Allen family married into the FitzGeralds as well. John Allen, the first Viscount, was born in Dublin in September 1685, entered Trinity College in 1701, and received his LL.D. degree in 1718. He visited the Hague in 1708, likely as part of a grand tour fashionable in his day. On his father's death in November 1726, he succeeded as 2nd Viscount and took his seat that same month. In 1703 he bought nineteen acres in Dalkey with four castles for £151, and the lands of Bullock in County Dublin, 209 acres, for £1,750, both from the Trustees of Forfeited Estates. At Stillorgan he erected a red brick mansion, described as singularly stately, with gardens laid out in the Dutch style and views of Dublin Bay.

Lisagh O'Connor's Will Requests Burial at Killeigh Abbey

Killeigh · town · Offaly · 1626

In his 1626 will, Lisagh O'Connor of Leixlip requested to be buried in the Abbey of St Francis at Killeigh, King's County, with minimal ceremony and no vain trappings such as escutcheons.

Read the passage

First. I bequeath my Soul to God my maker and Redeemer, and my body to be buried in the Abby of S4 Francis at Killihi,1 and my will is that I be decentlie buried with smale cost, and doe expresslie declare that there shalbe noe blackes isquitchions or such vaine sheowes, onlie that my soule be remembered.
Killeigh Abbey, near Tullamore, King’s County.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 167

Lynches of Galway claim descent from Hugh de Lacy via Knock

Knock · townland · Meath · 1280–1674

A seventeenth-century pedigree document proved for the University of Seville traces the Galway Lynches back to a younger son of 'Mr. Lynch of Knock, near Dublin' who migrated to Connaught around 1280. The author argues this Knock is Knock in County Meath, not Castleknock in Dublin.

Read the passage

was built by Sir William Burke the Convent of the Franciscans, at which time the youngest son of Mr. Lynch of Knock, near Dublin, came to Connaught and took to wife the only daughter and heiress of the Lord Marshal, whence all the Lynches of Galway are come and lineally descended.”2
This seems to leave no doubt as to the migration of the

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 186

Manor of Powerscourt inherited and enjoyed by successive O'Tooles

Powerscourt · parish · Wicklow · 1546–1603

The 1603 inquisition traced the descent of the Manor of Powerscourt through Brian O'Toole (d.1549), Phelim O'Toole, and Tirlogh (Terence) O'Toole, each successively entering and enjoying the profits of the manor up to the time of the inquisition.

Read the passage

And that Tirlogh, alias Terence O’Toole, now also of Powerscourt, is son and heir of the said Garrett, and immediately after the death of the above-named Phelim O’Toole, he entered into possession of the said Manor of Powerscourt, and from time to time received to his own use the profits of the said manor, and enjoys the same up to the very day of the taking of this Inquisition.2
1 Henry VIII Fiant No. 548.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 109

Medieval Barnewall family tenure of Drimnagh from 1216

Drimnagh · townland · Dublin · 1216–1558

The earliest mention of Drimnagh dates to 1216 when protection was sought for the lands of Hugh de Barnewall, and a succession of Barnewall family members held the castle and lands through the following centuries, including John Barnewall who served as Sheriff of County Dublin in 1460.

Read the passage

1216. The earliest mention of Drimnagh is from the “ Calendar of Documents ” relating to Ireland in 1216, when protection was sought for the lands of Hugh de Barnewall in Drimnagh and Terenure.
1221. Grant to John de St. John of the same.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 116

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, the Barnewall family held lands from 1216, when protection was sought for the lands of Hugh de Barnewall in Drimnagh and Terenure. A grant to John de St. John followed in 1221, and the family remained here for centuries, with John Barnewall serving as Sheriff of County Dublin in 1460.

Naas surrenders to Preston, 1647

Naas · town · Kildare · 1647

Following the skirmish near Jigginstown, Naas immediately surrendered to Preston's Confederate forces, who garrisoned the town before marching on toward Meath.

Read the passage

advance should be made without delay towards the Parliamentary quarters in Kildare and Meath, to prevent the inhabitants making terms with the enemy, and to secure the markets and supplies.1 On 25th June the army had moved to Monasterevan, and remained in camp until the second week in July. Preston then advanced over the Curragh of Kildare 2 in the direction of Naas, and on 11th July crossed the Liffey and encamped about a mile west of Jigginstown, having sent out parties to occupy Harristown and Coghlanstown, which were immediately abandoned by the enemy.3 The camping ground was well chosen, and inaccessible from the front except through a bog traversed by a narrow togher, which was easily commanded from the higher position of the camp. In the early morning of 12tli July Preston awoke to find Jones with about 500 horse and 2,000 foot4 drawn up beyond the bog. This intrepid commander had marched out from Dublin to reconnoitre his enemy, and, if possible, by feigning a retreat, to lure some detached pursuers into a trap.5 He was beaten off with some loss, and the pursuit was not pressed beyond Johnstown Inn. Naas immediately surrendered, and was garrisoned by Preston, who now marched towards Meath, sweeping all before him. In Dublin there were grave apprehensions after Jones’s defeat. Sir Patrick Wemys wrote on 17th July to Sir Philip Perceval : — “ We are in no condition to meddle with our powerful enemy, who carry all before them. They have taken all our garrisons towards the Naas, have put men into your house (Castlewarden), are now before Maynooth, and will undoubtedly this week spoil all our quarters and coop us up in this city, where there is nothing but jealousies and fears.”6 Maynooth in its turn yielded, and was occupied by an Irish garrison, and before the end of July Preston had laid siege to Trim. The importance of this position— the only inland town in Leinster that was now held for the Parliament — made an attempt to relieve it imperative ; and, notwithstanding the misgivings of his friends, Jones was equal to the occasion. He lost no time in arranging a junction with his Ulster allies, and on Sunday, 1st August, marched out from Dublin with two regiments of horse, 8,800 foot, two culverins (161b. -201b.), two demi-culverins (91b. -121b.), one saker (51b.), and four sakerets

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 292

As the companion tells it

As you come through Naas, you're passing through a town that surrendered to Confederate forces in the summer of 1647. On 11th July, Preston's army crossed the Liffey and camped about a mile west of Jigginstown, having sent parties to occupy Harristown and Coghlanstown, which the enemy abandoned. The next morning, Jones marched out from Dublin with about 500 horse and 2,000 foot, drawn up beyond a bog, hoping to lure detached pursuers into a trap. He was beaten off with some loss, and the pursuit went no further than Johnstown Inn. Naas immediately surrendered and was garrisoned by Preston, who then marched towards Meath. Within days the alarm spread to Dublin, where Sir Patrick Wemys wrote on 17th July that they were in no condition to face their powerful enemy, who had taken all their garrisons towards Naas, put men into Castlewarden, and were now before Maynooth. Maynooth yielded in its turn, and before the end of July Preston had laid siege to Trim.

Nangle family restored to Ballysax lands in 1660 after Commonwealth dispossession

Ballysax · parish · Kildare · 1660

A Sign Manual Warrant of 14 December 1660 restored to Robert Nangle of Ballysax the lands of Ballysax, County Kildare, of which he had been dispossessed by the Commonwealth government.

Read the passage

For restoring to Robert Nangle of Ballysax, the lands, etc., of Ballysax, County Kildare, of which he was dispossessed by the late usurped power (the Commonwealth).
Signed by Secretary Nicholas at Whitehall, 14th Dec., 1660.1

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 87

Neill mac Lisagh O'More hanged at Maryborough

Maryborough · townland · Laois · 1584

Neill mac Lisagh O'More was hanged at Maryborough in April 1584, according to the Calendar of State Papers.

Read the passage

Neill macLfsagh O’lVIore Hanged at Maryborough in April, 1584. [Cal. of State Papers, 1574-86, p. 505.]
T

Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 73

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

The stories, best first

Owny mac Rory's fight at Stradbally

Peter Lynch buried at Laracor parish church

Pierce O'More's submission and renunciation of Dunamase in 1538

Pierce Talbot surrenders Powerscourt, granted Dublin lands in exchange

Plunder and demolition of oratory at Killeshin, 700 captives taken

Rector of Carlow Church Petitions After Enemy Destroys His House

Rory O'More's inheritance lands and abbeys at Stradbally and Leix

Ruins of Killerrig Church on Carlow-Kildare border

Ruins of Maynooth Castle scarred by rebellion

Second Lynch memorial cross preserved at Summerhill demesne

Sherlockstown family arms and notable descendants

The pass of Agher and Agherpallis as an entrenched camp

Tully preceptory, important and wealthy, host to chapters

Twelfth-Century Knight's Effigy Rescued at Timolin Churchyard

Victory of Ath-dubh (Blackford) over the English

Jones musters forces at the Hill of Skreen, 1647

Ormonde Crosses at Athgarvan Ford to Attack Castlemartin, 1646

Maynooth yields to Confederate garrison, 1647

Ruins of Hore Abbey visited near Cashel railway station

171 free burgesses recorded in Carlow

Act of Absentees forfeits Carlow signories to the Crown

Bodkin Coat-of-Arms Slab at Lynch's Castle, Galway

Castledermot's former role as a parliament town

Castlewarden occupied by Confederate forces, 1647

Clane ford and castle remains at Blackhall

Excursion to the Rock of Cashel, 1910

Grant of Powerscourt manors to Pierce Talbot in 1587

Narraghmore Mansion Described in 1748 Tour

Rebel plan to muster at Knockardagur and attack Kilkenny

St. Brendan's Well Patterns at Tubbrid, Ardfert

Ancient Liffey Fords Marking the English Pale Boundary

Ballysax manor and ruinous tower recorded in 1307 inquisition

Brian Boru encamps at Slieve Margy

Brian reagh O'More slain at the Battle of the Camagh near Ballyfin

Burgage churchyard and ruined church tower mistaken for a castle

Carlow Castle's roof and hall in constant disrepair

Carlow described as the 'Irish Montpelier'

Castle of Timahoe built for Meyler FitzHenry

Croboy castle and lands inherited by Christopher Lynch

Danes plunder Clonenagh monastery

Discipline denied at Fort of Maryborough garrison

Effigied tomb of Melaghlin O'More at Abbeyleix

Felling of timber surrounding Drimnagh Castle disputed in 1618

FitzGerald Slab at Dingle Churchyard, 1504

Forfeiture and restoration of Kildare manors after Silken Thomas rebellion

Grant and forfeiture of Dooary and Monaduff, Ballyroan parish

Grant and forfeiture of Raheenduff and Cremorgan

Harristown Castle Demolished by a La Touche

Henry Jones Granted Forfeited Lands Including Lynch's Knock

Hewetson's Charity School founded at Betaghstown, moved to Millicent 1882

Hospice at Kill founded by Thomas of Hereford

Identification of Corraneduffe as Corrandhu hill on Toormore townland

Jigginstown, the 'ill-fated mansion' near Naas

Lisagh O'Connor's Will Requests Burial at Killeigh Abbey

Lynches of Galway claim descent from Hugh de Lacy via Knock

Manor of Powerscourt inherited and enjoyed by successive O'Tooles

Medieval Barnewall family tenure of Drimnagh from 1216

Naas surrenders to Preston, 1647

Nangle family restored to Ballysax lands in 1660 after Commonwealth dispossession

Neill mac Lisagh O'More hanged at Maryborough