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. No Trace or Tradition Remains of Carlow's Town Walls

   Carlow · townland · Carlow

   The author notes it is strange that no trace or even tradition now exists of Carlow having once been a walled town, unlike Athy and Castledermot which retain such traces.

   Read the passage

   In 1537 a Report1 was drawn up for presentation to the King, recommending certain plans for the pacification of Leinster. One suggestion was that farming men of substance should be induced to leave England and “ sent hither to inhabite the countrie,” for instance, “ att the bridge of Leghlen which is a good place to buylde a towne, there is a bowse of Friars there which will helpe well to the purpose. Lett another party of them be assigned to Carlaugh being walled alredy, another company to Castledermot which is alsoe walled alredy.” This reference to Carlow being a walled town appears to be the first on record, unless the expenditure of £500 in 1361 by the Duke of Clarence, Justiciary of Ireland, as stated in Dowling’s “ Annals of Ireland,” refers to the work. It is strange that no trace, or even tradition,

   1 “State Papers of Henry VIII,” vol. ii, p. 413.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 225

2. Origin of the name Dunamase

   Park or Dunamase · townland · Laois

   Dunamase is named after Masg, son of Augen Urgnuidh, meaning Masg's dun or fortress. The site was a lofty isolated rock that formerly held an earthen fort or stone cashel, later the ruins of a strong castle, situated in the Barony of East Maryborough.

   Read the passage

   DUNAMASE is so called from Masg, son of Augen Urgnuidh, the fourth son of Sedna Sithbhaic, King of Leinster; hence the name means Masg’s dun or fortress. O’Donovan tells us that Dunamase, or Dun Masg, is the name of a lofty, isolated rock, on which formerly stood an earthen fort, or stone cashel, but which now contains the ruins of a strong castle, situated in the territory of Ui-Crimlithannain, in the Barony of East Mary-, borough. Dunamase is marked on the map of Ptolemy, and is called the Dunum. This map is a work of the second century, and is reproduced by Ware. Dr. Joyce tells us that Ptolemy’s work is only a corrected copy of another map by Marinus of Tyre, who lived a short time before him ; and the latter is believed to have drawn his materials from an ancient Tyrian atlas.

   Dunamase from pre-historic times was the stronghold and chief residence of the kings and rulers of Leix. Before the Christian era the territory had no separate existence, but formed a part of the Kingdom of Leinster, and was inhabited by people under the jurisdiction of its rulers.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 123

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here is Dunamase, a name that comes from Masg, son of Augen Urgnuidh, who was the fourth son of Sedna Sithbhaic, King of Leinster. The name means Masg's dun, his fortress. O'Donovan describes it as a lofty isolated rock that once held an earthen fort or stone cashel, and now contains the ruins of a strong castle, in the Barony of East Maryborough. Ptolemy marked it on his second-century map, calling it Dunum, but his work was a corrected copy of an earlier map by Marinus of Tyre, who is believed to have drawn from an ancient Tyrian atlas. From prehistoric times Dunamase was the stronghold and chief residence of the kings and rulers of Leix. Before the Christian era the territory had no separate existence but formed part of the Kingdom of Leinster, inhabited by people under the jurisdiction of its rulers.

3. Petrie on the Wattle-Impressed Arches of Celbridge Abbey Bridge

   Celbridge · town · Kildare

   The early stone bridges over the Liffey had their arches turned on wooden frameworks covered with wattles, leaving impressions in the mortar; this can still be seen in the old foot-bridge in the grounds of Celbridge Abbey, and reportedly in the old bridge of Clane.

   Read the passage

   But fords, though useful, are not very comfortable ; and men would before long contrive a way to get over a river dryfoot. I suppose they very soon built stone piers, more or less substantial, and connected them with timber roadways. Petrie, indeed, said that no bridge of any importance was erected in Ireland before the twelfth century ; but that could only be true of stone-arched bridges. The Anglo-Normans introduced these, if they had not been built already. In the middle of the eighth century the Abbot of Iona was called “ the Bridge-Maker ” (. Droiched ) ; and a son of the King of Ulidia was named from the bridges he constructed ; but, doubtless, these were of wood. The early stone bridges over the Liffey had their arches turned on a framework of wood covered with wattles which left their impression on the mortar-work. This may still be seen in the old foot-bridge in the grounds of Celbridge Abbey ; and I am told that it was so in the old bridge of Clane. These bridges were just such as one would delight to sketch. The old builders were not particular as to the uniformity of the arches, either in height or form ; and they built with good strong projecting buttresses to resist the stream ; and with recesses in the parapets to shelter foot-passengers. People often wonder at the superiority of the masonry in ancient buildings. The secret of it was that the mortar, besides being composed of good lime and sharp sand, was used in a very liquid state and poured into the stone work where it filled every interstice, excluding air and wet.

   The bridges over the Liffey are numerous. There are or were bridges at Blessington (to go no higher), Burgage, Baltiboys, Busselstown, Horse-pass (now in ruins), Poulaphouca, Bally more, Harristown (old and new), Kilcullen, Athgarvan, Newbridge, Victoria Bridge, Caragh, Millicent, Clane, Irishtown, Straffan, Celbridge (two), Newbridge or St. Wolstan’s, and Leixlip. None are very picturesque. We have no covered bridges like those in Switzerland.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 203

4. Place of inauguration of the O'Mores at Croshyduff hill

   Kilcolmanbane · townland · Laois

   The place of inauguration of the O'More chiefs was possibly the Hill of Croshyduff in the parish of Kilcolmanbane, described in the Irish State Papers as the principal rath-hill of Leinster.

   Read the passage

   Possibly the Hill of Croshyduff in the Parish of Kilcolmanbane, described in the Irish State Papers as “ the principal rate-hill of Leinster.”

   Chief of Leix, 1538-42.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 73

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here is Croshyduff hill, the place where the O'More chiefs were inaugurated. The Irish State Papers described it as "the principal rate-hill of Leinster."

5. Silver sixpence of James I found at Walshestown

   Walshestown · townland · Kildare · 1622–1910

   Mr. O'Grady exhibited a thin silver coin, a sixpenny-piece of James I dated 1622, discovered by workmen demolishing the ruins of an old house at Walshestown, near Newbridge.

   Read the passage

   Mr. O’Grady exhibited a silver coin, which had been discovered some time ago by workmen employed in demolishing the ruins of an old house at Walshestown, near Newbridge. This coin, which was very thin, and about the size of a shilling, was a sixpenny-piece (English) of James I, and dated 1622.

   Archdeacon Sherlock exhibited a pair of American-Indian bead-worked moccasins, and a stone adze-liead, fixed by cord to a wooden handle, from New Zealand, illustrating how the Irish stone celt may have been secured to its handle.

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 279

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, workmen demolishing the ruins of an old house found a thin silver coin about the size of a shilling. It was a sixpenny-piece of James I, dated 1622. Mr. O'Grady exhibited the coin after its discovery.

6. Sir Nicholas Whyte knighted at Loughrea and buried at Leixlip

   Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1609–1654

   Sir Nicholas Whyte of Leixlip was knighted at Loughrea by the Lord Deputy in 1609. He died in 1654 and was buried in Leixlip Church, where a monument to his memory still exists.

   Read the passage

   Sir Nicholas Whyte, of Leixlip, was the eldest son of Andrew Whyte, who died 31st July, 1599, by Margaret, daughter of Patrick Finglas, and grandson of the Rt. Hon. Sir Nicholas Whyte, Master of the Rolls (M.P. Kilkenny County, 1559). His father died while he was under age, as appears from a Fiant of 17th August, 1599, when Sir George Carey, Knt., Treasurer-at- Wars, got a grant of wardship and marriage of the minor, with the custody of his lands during minority, his education to be at Trinity College, and £15 per annum being allowed for maintenance. Being a man of large property, he held a prominent position in the county, and on 30tli September, 1609, the honour of knighthood was conferred upon him “at Loghroer,” by Sir Arthur Chichester, the Lord Deputy. He married Hon. Ursula Moore, eldest daughter of Garret, 1st Viscount Drogheda. Sir Nicholas died 24th February, 1654, and was buried in Leixlip Churchy where a monument to his memory still exists. He left issue two sons and four daughters, viz., (1) Nicholas, of Leixlip (M.P. Kildare Borough), of whom hereafter; (2) Arthur, M.P. Swords, 1642, but unseated 1644 ; he d. s. p. 1658. (1) Frances, married, 1635, Thomas, 4th Viscount Dillon ; (2) Mary, married Theobald Taafe, 1st Earl of Carlingford; (3) Eleanor, married 1st Sir Arthur Aston, Governor of Drogheda (who was killed at the siege in 1649) ; and 2nd Edward Butler, 2nd Viscount

   Kildare members of parliament, 1559-1800. 405

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 268

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Leixlip, you are in the town where Sir Nicholas Whyte lived and is buried. He was the eldest son of Andrew Whyte, who died in 1599, and Margaret, daughter of Patrick Finglas. His grandfather was Sir Nicholas Whyte, Master of the Rolls. After his father died while he was under age, Sir George Carey got wardship of the boy, with his education at Trinity College and 15 pounds a year for maintenance. He grew into a man of large property, and on 30 September 1609 the honour of knighthood was conferred on him, as the record says, "at Loghroer," by Sir Arthur Chichester, the Lord Deputy. He married Hon. Ursula Moore, eldest daughter of Garret, 1st Viscount Drogheda. Sir Nicholas died on 24 February 1654 and was buried in Leixlip Church, where a monument to his memory still exists. He left two sons and four daughters. One son, Nicholas, represented Kildare Borough in Parliament. His daughter Eleanor married Sir Arthur Aston, Governor of Drogheda, who was killed at the siege in 1649.

7. Slaughter of O'Mores near Ballylehane

   Ballylehane · electoral division · Laois · 1315

   In 1315 a great slaughter of the Irish, namely the O'Mores, occurred with about 300 slain near Ballylehane at the Feast of the Epiphany.

   Read the passage

   1315. A great slaughter of the Irish, viz., the O’Mores ; and about 300 of them were slain near “ Ralilathan ” (Ballylehane) at the Feast of the Epithany. (Clyn’s “ Annals.”)

   1319. Shane, the son of Donough O’More, and his brothers, were slain (?by the English). (Friar Clyn’s “ Annals of Ireland.”;

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 23

8. St. Mary's churchyard shrunk by town expansion

   Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1707–1709

   The oldest burial-ground in Carlow, surrounding St. Mary's Church, was much reduced in the eighteenth century as parts were cut away for house-building as the town expanded. The oldest surviving tomb dates to 1707, commemorating Benjamin Bunbury of Killerrig.

   Read the passage

   The oldest burial-ground in Carlow is that surrounding St. Mary’s Church. It is now very much smaller than formerly, as, in the eighteenth century, much of it was cut away for the

   THE CASTLE AND MANOR OF CARLOW. 39 1

   Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

9. The Abbey house and site of the Franciscan Monastery at Stradbally

   Stradbally · town · Laois · 1447

   A house in the town of Stradbally still bore the name 'The Abbey', probably marking the site of the Franciscan Monastery founded in 1447, although no portion of the ancient walls survived by the time of writing.

   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

10. The 'Fire Castle' ruin in Kildare town

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1822

    A ruined castle in Kildare town, known as 'The Fire Castle,' gave its name to a lane, formerly 'Fire Castle Lane,' now known as Church Lane, east of St. Brigid's Cathedral; the origin of its name is queried and compared to St. Brigid's 'Fire House.'

    Read the passage

    Also all that parcel of land lying and being in the town and fields of Kildare, containing 8 acres plantation measure, whereon several houses, cabins, and gardens were made and built, formerly in the occupation of several persons as undertenants to the said Edward Money, and whereon the old Castle in the said town of Kildare , commonly called the Fire Castle, formerly stood.

    On a Manor Map of 1822 “The Fire Castle” is described as

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 326

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Kildare town, you are near the site of the old Fire Castle, a ruin that gave its name to what is now Church Lane, east of St. Brigid's Cathedral. In 1822 a manor map described it, and records speak of 8 acres where houses, cabins, and gardens stood, with the old castle formerly there. People have long wondered whether its name links to St. Brigid's famous Fire House.

11. The Gubbawn Seer's Sawpit at Moatfield

    Moatfield · townland · Longford

    Tradition held that the legendary carpenter the Gubbawn Seer had his sawpit at the site of the big lough at Moatfield, known locally as 'the Black lough' or 'the lough of water'.

    Read the passage

    “ The Gubbawn Seer.” — The Gubbawn Seer was a carpenter at buildings. He was a first-rate tradesman at all things. He had his sawpit where the big lough is at Moatfield : they call it “ the Black lough,” and “ the lough of water.” He gave his son a sheepskin one day, and told him he wouldn’t let him get married till he brought him back the skin and the price of it. So the son couldn’t think how he was to do that ; and he

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 130

12. The terraced sepulchral moat at Hortland

    Hortland · townland · Kildare

    Beside the old burial-ground of Scullogestown, alias Hortland, stands a sepulchral moat or tumulus notable for its unusual terraced construction, with one terrace encircling the base and another halfway up, a feature the author had not seen elsewhere.

    Read the passage

    Close beside the churchyard, and on the opposite side of the approach to the house, is a sepulchral moat, or tumulus, not as large as most, but with a peculiar feature in being terraced. One terrace encircles the base, and another narrow terrace is about halfway up. I do not recollect seeing a similar moat anywhere else.

    W. FitzG.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 241

13. Tober churchyard and spring source of the river Creese

    Tober · parish · Wicklow

    The old churchyard of Tober and the ruined Tynte family residence were visited; below the burial ground a strong spring, which formerly filled a fish-pond, gives Tober its name and is the source of the river Creese.

    Read the passage

    The road to Hollywood was then taken, and a mile and a half from Dunlavin the old churchyard of Tober, and near by the ruined residence of the Tynte family, were reached. Just below the burial-ground there is a strong spring, which formerly filled a “fish-pond”; this spring gives the name of Tober, i.e. a well, to the place ; it is the source of the river Creese, which, after a course of some twenty miles, enters the Barrow a short distance below Maganey station.

    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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 175

14. Trial at Athy Assizes over Assault on James Annesley

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1744

    Francis Annesley of Ballysax, Richard Earl of Anglesea, and John Jans were tried for assaulting Hon. James Annesley at the Summer Assizes held at Athy in 1744. The case is referenced in Howell's State Trials in connexion with Sir Kildare Borrowes.

    Read the passage

    1 An interesting reference to Sir Kildare Borrowes appears in Howell’s “ State Trials,” in connexion with the trial of Francis Annesley, of Ballysax, Richard, Earl of Anglesea, and John Jans, for assaulting Ron, James Annesley, at the Summer Assizes, at Athy, in 1744,

    48 6 KILDARE MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT, 1559-1800.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 315

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Athy, this is where the Summer Assizes sat in 1744. Francis Annesley of Ballysax, Richard Earl of Anglesea, and John Jans were tried here for assaulting the Honourable James Annesley. The case turns up in Howell's State Trials, linked to Sir Kildare Borrowes.

15. Vanished castle and church remains at Agher

    Agher · townland · Meath · 1808

    No antiquarian remains survive at Agher: the old parish church, marked as a ruin on Petty's map, has been completely uprooted and replaced by a Protestant church built about 1808, while the castle of Parys and the Gernons has been cleared away, its site marked only by an artificial mound.

    Read the passage

    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

16. Wale family burial place at Killerrig Church

    Killerrig · townland · Carlow · 1641

    The burial-place of the Wale family was Killerrig Church, though no monument to any of the family survives there; the once-powerful Anglo-Norman family lost their possessions after the 1641 rebellion and has no representative near Carlow today.

    Read the passage

    The burial-place of the Wale family was Killerrig Church, but no monument to any of the family is now in existence. Owing to their complicity in the rebellion of 1641, most of their possessions became forfeited to the Crown, and were granted to strangers. At the present time there is no representative of this ancient family existing in the neighbourhood of Carlow. Their lands in the old days were held by knight’s service from the Crown as of the sovereign’s Castle of Carlow.

    One memorial of this extinct family exists at Pollacton, the residence of the late Sir Charles William Cuffe Burton, the last of a line of baronets created in 1758. This consists of a sculptured mural slab, now built over the wicket leading into the garden from the hall-door side of the house, on which appear the Wale crest : — “ An arm embowed in armour, wielding a sword”; their Coat-of-arms impaling that of Walsh:— “ Argent, on a cross azure, voided of the field, five lions rampant,” for Wale ; and, “ Azure, a lion rampant argent, over all a fesse, per pale argent and gules, charged with an annulet sable,” for Walsh. On either side of the shield are the figures 16 and 30, with the inscription below

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 255

17. 1307 Inquisition finds Carlow Castle in ruinous state

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1307

    An Inquisition held in Carlow in 1307 into the possessions of Roger Bigod described the Castle as badly roofed, with the hall opposite having many defects in roof and walls so extensive that no one would rent them.

    Read the passage

    On the 8th April, 1307, an Inquisition was held in Carlow to inquire into the Irish possessions of Roger Bigod, 5th Earl of Norfolk, and Marshal of England, who died on the 11th December, 1306. His Castle of Catherlagh is thus described in their report : — “ The Castle is badly roofed ; opposite the Castle is a hall in which pleas of the county and of assize are held ; in the Castle and hall there are many defects, as well in the roof as in the walls, so that they can be extended at no price ; no one would rent them ; they greatly want roofing and good keeping/*1

    During the fourteenth century the following names appear as holding the office of Constable of Carlow Castle:— In 1310, William Bayllyf; 1346, Walter Lenfant ; 1360, Adam de Grantham ; 1371, Sir John de Cornwall, Knight ; 1375, Robert Brown; 1384, Walter Eure or Evre ; 1399, Thomas Harbrek or Herbrigge ; 1400, William Houton.2

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 219

18. Athy poor for want of manufacture despite Barrow-side trade advantage

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1682

    Athy is noted as a corporate town situated on the river Barrow, commodious for trade, but poor because no manufacture was carried on there.

    Read the passage

    (3) Athy is also another Corporate Towne scituate on the river Barrow every way commodious for Trade, but noe manifacture being driven, poore.

    These Townes are governd by a Soveraigne and two Portrives annually chosen ; and four and twenty Burgesses, whoe for the most part are composd of the neighboureing Gentlemen of the Country, who execute the office of Soveraine by a Deputy, a Towne Dweller, they onely appeareinge some sett clays in the yeare, to receive what their collectors have exacted by the tolls and Customs of the faires and marketts, soe that these townes seem to be totally neglected, the Revenew beinge never applied to any publique use or generall good of the Corporacon or improvem1 of the towne noe buildges are here to be found, onely at the Naas there is a comodious sessions house built at the charge of the county most of it pew and advanc’t upon pillars which yet are soe disproporcond

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Athy, a town on the river Barrow in Kildare. In 1682 it was described as a corporate town, every way commodious for trade, yet poor, because no manufacture was driven there. The town was governed by a sovereign and two portreeves chosen each year, along with 24 burgesses, mostly neighbouring gentlemen who carried out the office through a deputy living in the town. Those gentlemen appeared only at set times to collect what their exactors had gathered from the tolls and customs of fairs and markets. The revenue was never applied to any public use or the improvement of the town, and no buildings of note were to be found. The source puts it plainly: the town seemed to be totally neglected.

19. Battle of Ceannfuait at Confey

    Confey · townland · Kildare · 915

    In 915 AD Aughran, son of Kennedy, lord of Leix, was slain at the Battle of Ceannfuait, now identified as Confey in County Kildare.

    Read the passage

    915. Aughran, son of Kennedy, lord of Leix, was slain at the Battle of Ceannfuait (now Confey, Co. Kildare).

    919. The plundering of Clonenagli, and the burning of the Oratory of St. Mochua (i.e., Timahoe).

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 19

20. Blessington's Church Bells and Legend of Naming

    Blessington · town · Wicklow · 1661–1682

    Blessington is described as the only place on the Liffey where church bells' music floats over the river; its name's origin is uncertain, possibly given by Puritans during the Commonwealth, as the town was incorporated in 1661. A comparison is drawn to a legend about the river Banew, named for the blessings exchanged between monks meeting there, though this derivation is deemed impossible for Blessington.

    Read the passage

    If we follow the Liffey in its downward course after it leaves the mountains, the first town we come to is Blessington with its bridge of eight arches. This is, I think, the only place where the music of church bells1 floats over the river. I suppose the

    Blessington Bridge.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 204

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Blessington, you cross a bridge of eight arches over the Liffey. This is said to be the only place where the music of church bells floats over the river.

21. Castlemartin seized by Colonel Hewson during Commonwealth

    Castlemartin · townland · Kildare · 1649

    Castlemartin was the seat of the earliest stock of the Eustace family. The castle was taken and garrisoned by Colonel Hewson for the Commonwealth in 1649, though no trace of it now remains.

    Read the passage

    Not far from Kilcullen was Castlemartin, the seat of the earliest stock of the Eustace family. The castle was taken and garrisoned by Colonel Hewson for the Commonwealth in 1649. No trace of it now remains.

    From the ruins of the Great Abbey of Connell a narrow lane still leads to the ford, which crosses the river near at hand.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 206

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Castlemartin was the seat of the earliest Eustace family. In 1649 Colonel Hewson took the castle and garrisoned it for the Commonwealth. Nothing of it remains today.

22. Colonel John Hewetson buried in Kildare Cathedral, owner of 'both the Abbeys'

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1618–1658

    Colonel John Hewetson of Kildare, an officer of King Charles I's army and High Sheriff for County Kildare in 1656, owned 'both the Abbeys' in Kildare, died in 1658, and was interred in Kildare Cathedral.

    Read the passage

    John Peeke, of Kildare, elected on the 22nd of April, 1661, to serve that Borough , was the second husband of Christian Hewetson (daughter of . . . Deey, sister of Abraham Deey, and niece of Walter Springham, of Glencree), whose first husband was John Hewetson, of Kildare, Colonel of the Army of King Charles I, one of the ’49 Officers and owner of “both the Abbeys” in Kildare. He was born in 1618 ; High Sheriff for the County of Kildare, 1656 ; died 1658, and was interred in Kildare Cathedral.

    Mrs. Peeke had, jointly with her second husband (subject to the conditions of her first husband’s will of 1656), a Grant under Act of Settlement by patent, dated 9 February, 19 Charles II, as widow of Colonel John Hewetson, of lands in the baronies of Knocktopher, Ida, and Iverk, in the County of Kilkenny, in all 8,286 acres 2r. and 16p.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 326

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, you're travelling the town where Colonel John Hewetson lived and is buried. He was an officer of King Charles the First's army, one of the '49 Officers, and owned what the records call "both the Abbeys" in Kildare. Born in 1618, he served as High Sheriff for County Kildare in 1656 and died in 1658, with his burial in Kildare Cathedral. His widow Christian, daughter of Deey and niece of Walter Springham of Glencree, went on to marry John Peeke, who was elected to serve the borough in 1661. Under the Act of Settlement, she received a grant of over 8,286 acres across the baronies of Knocktopher, Ida, and Iverk in County Kilkenny, held jointly with her second husband and subject to the conditions of her first husband's will of 1656.

23. Corracle Boats Used by Fishermen on the Boyne

    near River Boyne · river · Kildare

    The text describes corracles, squarish wicker-framed boats covered in horse-skin, used by fishermen on the River Boyne. They were propelled with a single cross-handled bat-like paddle.

    Read the passage

    Corracle ; the squarish wicker-framed horse- skin-covered boats in use by fishermen on the Boyne ; they are propelled by a single cross-handled batlike paddle.

    Corrachaun ; tussocks of grass or heather on a bog.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 332

24. Dunlavin's Doric Market House built by James Worth-Tynte

    Dunlavin · town · Wicklow · 1700–1750

    The Society's 1909 excursion visited Dunlavin, County Wicklow, noting its Market House built in the Doric style during the first half of the eighteenth century by James Worth-Tynte of Dunlavin and Old Bawn.

    Read the passage

    About 11.20 a.m. a special train from Sallins brought a large contingent of Members and their friends to Dunlavin station. On a start being made the little town of Dunlavin was entered; though it contains no object of antiquarian interest, its Market House, erected in the Doric style of architecture, during the first half of the eighteenth century, by James Worth-Tynte of Dunlavin and of Old Bawn (the latter in the County Dublin), was worth seeing, so the party were driven round it.

    The road to Hollywood was then taken, and a mile and a half from Dunlavin the old churchyard of Tober, and near by the ruined residence of the Tynte family, were reached. Just below the burial-ground there is a strong spring, which formerly filled a “fish-pond”; this spring gives the name of Tober, i.e. a well, to the place ; it is the source of the river Creese, which, after a course of some twenty miles, enters the Barrow a short distance below Maganey station.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 175

25. Grant of Carlow lands to Bangor Monastery in the sixth century

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 570–599

    Canon O'Hanlon relates that Diarmaid, King of Leinster, had a son named Cormac of the territory of Hy Kinsellagh, who was kept prisoner by Colman, King of North Leinster, until released at the intercession of St. Fintan, leading to a grant of Carlow land to the Monastery of Bangor in the late sixth century.

    Read the passage

    “Diarmaid, King of Leinster, had a son named Cormac, who was a native of the territory of Hy Kinsellagh. He was kept a prisoner for some time by Colman, King of North Leinster, until released, at the intercession of St. Fintan, Patron Saint and Abbot of Clonenagh, in the Queen’s County.

    1 For the ancient territories in the present County of Carlow, see

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 213

26. Old house at Bessborough (Kildalton) demolished and rebuilt

    Bessborough · townland · Tipperary · 1744

    The old house at Bessborough, known as Kildalton, was pulled down by the 2nd Earl of Bessborough in 1744, and in its place he erected the present mansion, designed by David Bindon.

    Read the passage

    II. William, M.P. County Kilkenny, 1727-58 ; Newtown, 1725-7; Derby, 1742-54; Saltash, 1754-6; Harwich, 1756-8. He s. father as 2nd Earl, and was a prominent figure in English political life, being appointed a Lord of the Admiralty, 1746, and of the Treasury, 1756. He was a member of the Privy Council, and was Joint Postmaster-General, 1759-62 and 1765-6. Kildalton, the old house at Bessborough, was pulled down by him in 1744, and in its place he erected the present mansion, from designs by David Bindon. According to “Irish Political Characters,” he was possessed of £30,000 per annum, “ which has ever been applied to the best of purposes.” The 2nd Earl m., 5th July, 1739, Lady Catherine Cavendish, 1st dau. of William, 3rd Duke of Devonshire, and d. 11th March, 1793, leaving issue.

    III. Right Hon. John, b. 29fch March, 1713. Speaker of the Irish House of Commons, M.P. Newtown 1739-60, Co. Kilkenny 1761-88, Newtown 1783-7, and six times a Lord Justice ; m., 22nd September, 1743, Lady Elizabeth Cavendish, d. of William, 3rd Duke of Devonshire, and d. 16th August, 1787, leaving issue,

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 312

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Bessborough, the old house known as Kildalton once stood here. The 2nd Earl of Bessborough, William, pulled it down in 1744 and put up the present mansion in its place, from designs by a man named David Bindon. William was a prominent figure in English political life. He sat as an MP for County Kilkenny and several other seats, served as a Lord of the Admiralty in 1746 and of the Treasury in 1756, sat on the Privy Council, and held the post of Joint Postmaster-General. According to a work called Irish Political Characters, he possessed 30,000 pounds per annum, which has ever been applied to the best of purposes. He married Lady Catherine Cavendish, daughter of the 3rd Duke of Devonshire, on the 5th of July 1739, and he died on the 11th of March 1793, leaving issue.

27. Pratt and Bulkeley families' estates around Dunlavin

    Dunlavin · town · Wicklow

    Colonel Mervyn Tynte, whose death the Society records, was the representative of the Pratt and Bulkeley families, who in past centuries owned much property in the district around Dunlavin, including Old Bawn in County Dublin.

    Read the passage

    In Colonel Mervyn Tynte we lose the representative of the Pratt and Bulkeley families, who in past centuries owned so much property in the district around Dunlavin. Only a few years back we visited Old Bawn, in the County Dublin, of which he was head landlord.

    Father Conmee was an erudite scholar, and at one time Bector of Clongowes Wood College. Many of us will remember that he was one of those who gave us a kindly welcome on the occasion of the Excursion Meeting to Clongowes in 1899.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 280

28. Repair of the Fort of Maryborough and its iron grate

    Maryborough · townland · Laois · 1599

    In September 1599 the Lords Justices reported that the Fort of Maryborough was in such a ruined state that an attack was likely to succeed, and ordered its repair including the making of an iron grate for its entrance.

    Read the passage

    In September, 1599, the Lords Justices wrote to the Lord Lieutenant (who had just crossed over to England), among other matters, that the Fort of Maryborough was in such a state of ruin that an attack on it would be likely to succeed, so that they had issued orders for its repair and also for the making of an iron grate for its entrance.3 The “ grate ” was the outer iron-

    1 The Publication of the Irish Archaeological Society for 1843, p. 32.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 53

29. Robert Lawe Buried at Leixlip Churchyard with Family Monument

    Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1785–1786

    Robert Lawe, Barrack-Master-General of Ireland and owner of Robertsville near Leixlip, was buried in Leixlip Churchyard along with his wife Martha and son Alexander, where a monument to their memory stands.

    Read the passage

    Robert Lawe, younger son, of Dublin and Cork, appears to have acquired the property known as Robertsville, Leixlip, was Barrack-Master-General of Ireland (of which office he was in possession in 1747 and in 1758). Married in St. Michan’s, Dublin, Feb. 5th, 1733, to Martha Wrightson, who was buried in Leixlip Churchyard, aged 79 ; his will dated 15 June, 1785, pr. 21 Sept., 1786. He was buried in Leixlip Churchyard, where there is a monument to his memory, as to that of his wife and their son Alexander. He had issue (besides Willcokes Lawe, bapt. St. Michan’s, Oct. 16, 1742, William Lawe, bapt. St. Michan’s, Sept. 8, 1748, Purasie Lawe, bapt. St. Michan’s, Dec. 26, 1738, bur. there, Nov. 10, 1740, Dorothy Lawe, bapt. St. Michan’s, June 15, 1744, Frances Lawe, bapt. St. Michan’s, June 6, 1751 ; bur. there, June 7, 1752) five sons and three daughters.

    I. John Lawe, Barrack-Master of Cork (in which he was succeeded by his brother Alexander), bapt. at St. Michan’s, Feb. 27, 1734.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 158

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Leixlip, there's a churchyard where Robert Lawe is buried along with his wife Martha and their son Alexander, all marked by a family monument. Lawe owned the property called Robertsville here and served as Barrack-Master-General of Ireland, holding that office by 1747 and still in 1758. He married Martha Wrightson at St. Michan's in Dublin on the 5th of February 1733. Martha lived to 79 and was buried in this same churchyard. Robert's will was dated the 15th of June 1785 and proved on the 21st of September 1786. They had a large family, baptised mostly at St. Michan's, including another son John who became Barrack-Master of Cork before being succeeded in that post by his brother Alexander.

30. The Hartpole effigy tomb fragment at Oak Park

    Oak Park · street · Dublin · 1594

    An altar-tomb effigy of Robert Hartpole (1594) formerly stood at Oak Park; a fragment of the sides still exists on a heap of debris against the garden wall, showing panels separated by fluted pillars each containing one of Hartpole's children.

    Read the passage

    The Hartpole Tomb. — On p. 885 reference was made to the Hartpole Effigy (1594) formerly at Oak Park. It was an altartomb, and a fragment of the sides still exists on a heap of debris against the garden wall at Oak Park ; this fragment shows that the sides were divided into panels, separated by fluted pillars, each of which contained one of Robert Hartpole’s children (see the “ Journal of the Association for the Preservation of the Memorials of the Dead in Ireland,” vol. vii, p. 521, where Canon J. F. M. ffrench describes this fragment).

    The Celtic Patron Saint of Carlow. — In Gilbert’s “ Crede Mihi,” p. 52, there is given a Deed which appears to corroborate the statement on pages 311, 312 of the Journal, that St. Comgall was the Saint to whom St. Mary’s Church in Carlow was originally dedicated. It appears by that work that John Comyn, Archbishop of Dublin from 1181 to 1212, during a vacancy in the See of Leighlin, installed one Turstin de Hamton in the undermentioned churches in that Diocese : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 251

    As the companion tells it

    Along here at Oak Park, there's a fragment of an altar-tomb that once held the effigy of Robert Hartpole, dated 1594. The tomb itself is gone, but a piece of the sides survives on a heap of debris against the garden wall. The fragment shows the sides were divided into panels separated by fluted pillars, and each panel held the figure of one of Hartpole's children. Canon J. F. M. ffrench described this fragment in print.

31. 1542 Inquisition at Naas records Ballysax castle and lands forfeited

    Ballysax · parish · Kildare · 1542

    An Inquisition held in Naas in December 1542 found that a castle, four messuages, twelve cottages, and 292 acres in Ballysax, with grazing rights on the Curragh, had come into the King's hands.

    Read the passage

    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

    From this period the Crown granted leases, generally for twenty-one years, of the castle and lands of Ballysax, to various individuals, and among others to : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 85

32. 1654 Civil Survey records mill, chapel ruins and castle at Drimnagh

    Drimnagh · townland · Dublin · 1654

    The Civil Survey of 1654 records that at Drimnagh there stood a mill, the ruins of an old chapel, and an old castle that had been made habitable.

    Read the passage

    1654. The “ Civil Survey ” of this year states — There stands at Drimnagh a mill, the ruins of an old chapel, and an old castle made habitable.

    1662. Philip Fernely, Esq., paid subsidy for Drimnagh.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 118

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, the Civil Survey of 1654 recorded a mill, the ruins of an old chapel, and an old castle that had been made habitable. A few years later, in 1662, Philip Fernely paid a subsidy for Drimnagh.

33. Arthur Pomeroy's Country House at Newberry, Carbury

    Newberry · street · Kildare · 1758–1791

    Arthur Pomeroy, later Baron Harberton of Carbury, kept his country house at Newberry, County Kildare, while maintaining a Dublin residence on Kildare Street where his arms could still be seen on a leaden cistern dated 1758.

    Read the passage

    20th September, 178J, taking his seat 011 the 14th October following. On 5th July, 1791, he was advanced to the Viscounty of Harberton. His country house was at Newberry, County Kildare ; while in Dublin he lived at 48 (now 5) Kildare Street, where his arms may still be seen on a leaden cistern, dated 1758. He was a Trustee of the Linen Manufacture for the Province of Leinster ; a Director of the Grand Canal Company, and a Member of the Royal Dublin Society. On 20th October, 1747, he married Mary,1 * * younger dau. and co-heiress of Henry Colley, of Castle Carbury, County Kildare, M.P. for Strabane (brother of Richard, 1st Baron Mornington) ; by her, who died 7th April, 1794, he left issue at his decease, 9th April, 1798 : —

    I. Henry, s. as 2nd Viscount Harberton, b. 8th December, 1749. Called to the Irish Bar, 1775 ; a Commissioner of Barracks ; M.P. for Strabane, 1776-97 ; married 20th January, 1788, Mary, who died 22nd January, 1822, dau. of Nicholas Grady, of Grange, County Limerick, and d.s.p., 30th November, 1829.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 316

    As the companion tells it

    Along here stood the country house of Arthur Pomeroy at Newberry. He was advanced to the Viscounty of Harberton on 5th July 1791, but before that he kept this as his country seat while living in Dublin at 48 Kildare Street, where his arms could still be seen on a leaden cistern dated 1758. He was a Trustee of the Linen Manufacture for the Province of Leinster, a Director of the Grand Canal Company, and a Member of the Royal Dublin Society. He married Mary Colley on 20th October 1747. She was the younger daughter and co-heiress of Henry Colley of Castle Carbury. He left issue at his decease on 9th April 1798.

34. Ballymore Woollen Factory Survives Amid Decayed Mills

    Ballymore Eustace · town · Kildare

    At many river crossings, weirs, mills and factories were built when towns grew up, but few of these remain in operation, an exception being the woollen factory at Ballymore, while the ruined and disused mills elsewhere in Kildare testify to the decay of once-flourishing trade.

    Read the passage

    At most of these places, when towns and villages grew up, weirs were constructed, and mills and factories built. Few of these remain at work like the woollen factory at Ballymore, and one of the most depressing sights in Kildare is that of the ruined and disused mills, testifying to the decay of once flourishing trade which used to bring employment and prosperity to the inhabitants.

    At nearly all the important passes over the river, castles were

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 203

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballymore Eustace, the woollen factory here is a rare survivor. Towns and villages across Kildare grew up at river crossings, where weirs and mills were built, but few of these remain at work. The ruined and disused mills elsewhere in the county testify to the decay of a trade that once brought employment and prosperity to the inhabitants.

35. Battle of Aughrim claims Lewis O'More

    Aughrim · parish · Galway · 1691

    Col. Lewis (or Lisagh) O'More of the Confederate Catholic Army was killed at the Battle of Aughrim. He belonged to the O'More family seated at Ballina, Co. Kildare.

    Read the passage

    Killed at the Battle . f Aughrim, Co. Galway, 12th

    Connell O’lVore

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through the parish of Aughrim, you are travelling ground where the Battle of Aughrim was fought in 1691. Colonel Lewis O'More of the Confederate Catholic Army, whose family was seated at Ballina in County Kildare, was killed here in that battle.

36. Burning of Gailine and O'Kelly's territory by Earl of Ormond

    Cullenagh · townland · Laois · 1394

    In 1394 the Earl of Ormond marched into Leix, burning and spoiling Gailine (now the Barony of Cullenagh) and the territory of O'Kelly of Magh Druchtain (now the Barony of Stradbally).

    Read the passage

    1394. The Earl of Ormond mustered a force and marched into Leinster (? Leix) to spoil it ; and he burned and spoiled Gailine (now the Barony of Cullenagh) and the territory of O’Kelly of Magh Druchtain (now the Barony of Stradbally), and then returned home.

    1394. On the 16th of February, Thomas, Earl of Nottingham, Marshal of England, accompanied by his retinue, proceeded to a place called Ballygory (? Kilgorey) near Carlow, on the side of the mountain of Slieve Margy, and caused Edmund Wall (or de Valle)1 to translate into the Irish tongue certain Letters Patent of King Richard II, to an assemblage of the native chiefs, empowering the said Earl to receive the Irish chiefs to the king’s fealty and obedience ; then Art Mac- Murrough, Garrett O’Byrne, Donnell O’Nolan, Murrough O’Connor Faly, Teige O’More, Rory oge and Shane, sons of Maurice Boy O’More of Slieve Margy, chiefs of their septs, removing their girdles, swords, and caps, on bended knees, with uplifted hands, took an oath, in their native tongue, of allegiance to the king, or in default to pay 20,000 marks to the Papal chamber. The submission of Gillapatrick “ reogh ” O’More is also recorded in this year. [Brewer’s “ Cal. of Miscellaneous Carew MSS.,” pp. 378-381.]

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 24

37. Burning of Gleann Uisean with its yews

    Killeshin · townland · Laois · 1077

    In 1077, Gleann Uisean, along with its notable yew trees, was burned, marking one of the last recorded events concerning the church in the Irish Annals.

    Read the passage

    1077. Gleann Uisean, with its yews, was burned.

    1082. Concliobhar Ua Uathghaile, lector of Gleann Uisean, a learned senior of the west of Leinster, died.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 136

38. Earl of Kildare's Arms at Johnstown Bridge Gate

    Johnstown · townland · Kildare · 1578–1586

    A stone bearing the Earl of Kildare's coat-of-arms, belonging to Gerald, eleventh Earl of Kildare who died in 1586, is now built into the piers of a gate in the village of Johnstown Bridge, said to have been removed from John Lye's Castle of Clonaugh, now demolished.

    Read the passage

    The Earl’s Arms shown below are from a rubbing of a stone now built into the piers of a gate in the village of Johnstown Bridge, barony of Carbury (see vol. ii, p. 139, of the Journal). They belong to Gerald, eleventh Earl of Kildare, who died in 1586 ; the slab is said to have been removed from John Lye’s Castle of Clonaugh, now demolished.

    514 BALLADS AND POEMS OF THE COUNTY KILDARE.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, a stone bearing the Earl of Kildare's arms is built into the piers of a gate at Johnstown Bridge. The arms belong to Gerald, eleventh Earl of Kildare, who died in 1586. The slab is said to have been taken from John Lye's Castle of Clonaugh, now demolished.

39. Gouleen-a-Wautha Cataract Above Ballymore

    Ballymore Eustace · town · Kildare

    A quarter of a mile above Ballymore is a picturesque cataract formed by the river rushing over a ridge of rocks, called 'Gouleen-a-Wautha,' meaning the little river of the flooding.

    Read the passage

    A quarter of a mile higher up is a picturesque cataract, formed by the rush of the river over a ridge of rocks, called “ G-ouleen-a-Wautha ” (the little river of the flooding).

    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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 205

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballymore Eustace, about a quarter of a mile upriver from the town, the river rushes over a ridge of rocks and forms a picturesque cataract. It is called Gouleen-a-Wautha, meaning the little river of the flooding. The old road south used to pass through Ballymore itself, before the building of Kilcullen Bridge drew the traffic away along a different route.

40. Grant of £500 to strengthen Carlow's fortifications in 1361

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1361

    There is a record of a grant of £500, allowed by the Justiciary of Ireland in 1361, for strengthening the fortifications of Carlow, possibly spent on the outworks of the castle, of which no traces now remain.

    Read the passage

    These two extracts show that a castle was then in existence. There is some doubt whether Carlow was ever a walled town like Castledermot, Old Boss, Athy, Kildare, etc. ; possibly it was, as there is a record of a grant of d£500 allowed by the Justiciary of Ireland in 1361, for strengthening the fortifications of the place ; but this, which was then a very great sum, may have been expended on the outworks of the castle, of which there are now no traces.

    In April, 1231, a mandate was issued by the King to the Constables of Castles belonging to the late William Marshal (junior), Earl of Pembroke, who died in that year, to hand them over to Walerand Teutonicus, and to then proceed to England to confer with the King. The knights free and other tenants on the Earl’s lands in Leinster were warned to obey the King’s custodian during the time of his being in authority.1

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 218

41. Great Plague Decimates Carlow and Other Towns

    Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1375

    In 1375 a great plague raged in the country, decimating populations in the towns of Wexford, Dublin, Naas, Athy, Carlow, and Leighlinbridge.

    Read the passage

    In 1375 a great plague raged in the country; it decimated the populations in the towns of Wexford, Dublin, Naas, Athie, Carlough, and Leighlin-bridge.4

    In the same year, on the Feast of St. Ann, mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary (26th July), Donough Kavanagh MacMurrough, King of Leinster, w7as slain by Geoffrey de Valle near Catherlaugh 5 ; the “Annals of the Four Masters” state that he was killed treacherously.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 220

42. Inquisition of 1541 lists Killerrig Preceptory lands

    Killerrig · townland · Carlow · 1541

    An Inquisition taken in 1541 found Nicholas Plunket to be the last Commendator, seized of a castle and messuages in Frereton and Underwood, plus various rectories appropriated to the Preceptory, all situated in County Carlow.

    Read the passage

    Bishop Comerford in his book on “ The Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin,” page 382, quoting from the “ Chief Remembrancer,” gives an Inquisition taken next after the feast of St. Brandon, 33 King Henry VIII (1541), which finds that Nicholas Plunket was the last Commendator, and was seized of a castle and three messuages in Frereton (Friarstown), and Underwood in Courton, annual value, besides reprises, £5 ; 160 acres in the said town and in Russelstown, and 16 acres in Tullowphelin, annual value, besides reprises, 4s. ; also the following rectories appropriated to the said Preceptor, Killarge, which extendeth into Killarge, Russelstown, Bestherstown (Busherstown), Ardinheth, and Ballymahen, annual value, besides reprises, U3 ; Kylmakill, (Kilmacahill), which extended into Kylmakill, Carydogli, Castlecoyle, Grangewelt, Poleston, Ballyshordan, and Ballinwally, annual value, besides reprises, £7 ; also Powerston in O’Ryan’s country, annual value, besides reprises, 20s. And another Inquisition, taken in March the same year, finds that the same Commendator was seised of 14 acres of land in Miganne ; all the said lands and rectories lie and are situated in the County Carlow.

    In Grace’s “Annals,” in the year 1331, a savage incident in the wild warfare of these times is recorded : — “ The Leinster Irish rise against the English ; they set fire to everything, even the churches, and burn the Church of Freynstown with eighty persons in it ; and when the priest in his sacred vestments and carrying the Host in his hands, tried to get out, they drove him back with their spears and burned him, and for This cause they

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 111

43. James I orders regrant of Ballysax castle to Nangle with repair covenant

    Ballysax · parish · Kildare · 1609

    On 13 June 1609 James I directed Sir Arthur Chichester to accept surrender of the castle and lands of Ballysax from Robert Nangle and regrant them, with a covenant that he repair the ruinous castle of Ballysax.

    Read the passage

    In reply to the petition, James I, on the 13th June, 1609, wrote to Sir Arthur Chichester, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, directing him to accept the surrender from Robert Nangle of the castle and lands of Ballysax, the abbey called Hore Abbey in the County Tipperary, and the poor friary of Kilmacahill in the County Westmeath, which he held from the Crown for terms under sixty years or thereabouts, and to regrant them for so many years yet unexpired of the said terms, and for sixty years further in reversion, reserving the former rents, with a covenant that he shall repair the ruinous castle of Ballysax.2

    Robert Nangle made his Will3 on the 15th January, 1608; in it he styles himself “ of Ballesaxe in the Countie of Kyldar Esquier,” and desires to be buried where his friends shall think proper.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 85

44. Kildare priory churches under the Hospitallers

    Castledermot · town · Kildare

    The Hospitaller priory in Kildare owned numerous churches including Rathmore, Sherlockstown, Killibegs, Castledermot, Calverstown, Davidstown, Rathsillagh, Fontstown, and Ladytown, with tithes supporting pilgrims and the poor, in exchange for an annual payment of wax to Christ Church, Dublin.

    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

45. Lynches of Knock recorded as officials in 15th-16th centuries

    Knock · townland · Meath · 1421–1511

    Records show members of the Lynch family resident at Knock serving as collectors and officials for the Barony of Moyfenragh from 1421 through the early 1500s. Christopher Leynce of Knock is named in a 1485 Memorandum Roll electing coroners for County Meath.

    Read the passage

    Bacon, Walter Leyns, and Philip Bede.1 They were certainly at Knock in 1485, a Memorandum Boll of which year records that “ Christopher Leynce, of the Knock ; Walter Cusack, of Gerardstown ; William Wesley, of Dengyn,” and others, elected “ Matthew Bath, of Bathfeigh, and Edmund Goldying as Coroners for the County of Meath.”2

    In 1488, and again in 1499, “ David Leynce, of Knoke, and Gerald Wesley, of Dengyn,” are appointed collectors in the County Meath for the Barony of Moyfenragh.3 In 1508 “ Walter Leynce ” was collector in the same barony.4 There is in the Library of Trinity College a manuscript collection of Christopher Cusack, chiefly concerning the state of the County of Meath, of which he was Sheriff in 1511 ; and among the gentlemen of the County he mentions “Lenx of the Knock.”

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 187

46. Manor of Woodstock and Bridge of Athy re-edified

    Athy · town · Kildare · 1536

    In July 1536, terms were reached allowing the re-edifying and fortifying of the Manor of Woodstock and the Bridge of Athy, with O'More's claims to these, derived from Matthew St. Michael Baron of Reban and the attainted Earl of Kildare, to be settled by arbitration.

    Read the passage

    In July, 1536, Thomas Alen, of Kilteel (County Kildare), wrote to Thomas Cromwell, the Secretary of State, that the Irish Privy Council had come to terms with O’More, who had consented to allow the re-edifying and fortifying of the Manor

    1 See the Journal, vol. i, p. 250.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 28

    As the companion tells it

    Passing through Athy, in July 1536 Thomas Alen of Kilteel wrote to Cromwell that the Irish Privy Council had come to terms with O'More, who consented to allow re-edifying and fortifying the Manor of Woodstock and Bridge of Athy. O'More's claims, from Matthew St Michael Baron of Reban and the attainted Earl of Kildare, were to be settled by arbitration.

47. Old burial ground of Scullogestown at Hortland

    Hortland · townland · Kildare · 1745

    Inside the Hortland demesne lies the old unenclosed burial-ground of Scullogestown, marked only by an octagonal limestone font head, with the earliest legible tombstone dating to 1745.

    Read the passage

    Inside the demesne (the house of which is now ruinous) is the old burial-ground of Scullogestown, alias Hortland. It is unenclosed, except for a light iron paling, and the only trace of the old church is the octagonal head of a limestone font perforated in the centre. There are no tombstones of any interest ; the earliest I could discover belonged to one Bryan M‘Donal, who died in 1745.

    Close beside the churchyard, and on the opposite side of the approach to the house, is a sepulchral moat, or tumulus, not as large as most, but with a peculiar feature in being terraced. One terrace encircles the base, and another narrow terrace is about halfway up. I do not recollect seeing a similar moat anywhere else.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 241

48. Oldest tombstone in Killeshin churchyard dated 1688

    Killeshin · townland · Laois · 1688

    The oldest tombstone in the burial-ground at Killeshin appears to be dated 1688, a flat slab on the south side erected to the memory of members of John Dodd's and Bryan Hogan's families.

    Read the passage

    So far as the sepulchral monuments go, there is nothing in the burial-ground of any considerable age. The oldest tombstone appears to be dated 1688 ; it is a flat slab on the south side of the churchyard, and was erected to the memory of members of John Dodd’s and Bryan Hogan’s families.

    On a tablet built into the churchyard wall on the roadside is inscribed

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 140

49. Origin of the name Summerhill

    Summerhill · street · Meath · 1667

    The name Summerhill dates from about 1667 when Sir Hercules Langford of Summerhill, Co. Meath, was created a Baronet. Its Irish form Drumsawry (hill of summer) is attached to two other localities in the county, but is especially apt here given the bright, warm aspect of the hill.

    Read the passage

    The name Summerhill seems to date from about the year 1667, when “ Sir Hercules Langford, of Summerhill, Co. Meath,” was created a Baronet. In its Irish form, Drumsawry [Drum,

    1 “ State Papers of Henry VIII,” vol. ii, p. 22.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 145

50. Patron saint festival traditions at Stradbally and other Leix churches

    Stradbally · town · Laois

    A compiled list gives the principal patron saints and festival days of churches throughout Leix, noting that in some cases identification relies on the 'pattern-day' at the Blessed Well still being observed or recollected by the peasantry.

    Read the passage

    The following list of the more important of the Patron Saints in Leix has been compiled mainly from two works — “The Martyrology of Donegal,” and Bishop Comerford’s “History of the Diocese of Leighlin,” and also from the Fiants of Queen Elizabeth. In some cases, owing to the number of Irish saints bearing the same name, the Patron Saint of a church can only be identified by being mentioned in the Martyrology in conjunction with the church founded by him; or else by “ the pattern-day ” at the Blessed Well being still observed, or, at any rate, recollected by the peasantry : —

    CHURCH NAME.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

51. Plunder of Abbey Leix by John FitzGerald

    Abbeyleix · town · Laois · 1580

    Under the year 1580 the Annals of the Four Masters record that John FitzGerald, son of the Earl of Desmond, went into Leix and burned and plundered Abbey Leix, which belonged to Pierce Butler, son of the Earl of Ormond.

    Read the passage

    “ Went into Leix, and burned and plundered Abbey Leix upon (i.e., belonging to) the son of the Earl of Ormond, namely upon Pierce, the

    1 “Cal. of Carew MSS.,” 1575-88, p. 144.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 40

52. Restoration of Donnamase and Tymooge to the Crown

    Park or Dunamase · townland · Laois · 1542

    As part of Rory O'More's submission, Donnamase with its demesne lands, Tymooge, and other lands of the late Earl of Kildare in Leix were to be restored to the King, with the demesnes surveyed and their extent declared by jurors.

    Read the passage

    (6.) Donnamase with the demesne lands, Tymooge and other lands of the late Earl of Kildare2 in Lex, shall be restored to the King. The demesnes of Donnamase shall be surveyed and their extent declared by indifferent men (as jurors on the Inquisition), and the lands and rents of the said Earl of Kildare by Thomas Wolf senior ; and both those lands, and the possessions of (the Nunnery of) Grayne (Graney, Co. Kildare), of the Monasteries of Saint Mary of Dublin, of Connall (Co. Kildare), and of other religious Houses, with the lands of Kyllberry (Co. Kildare), are at the disposition of the tenants and farmers of the King.

    (7.) When the Lord Deputy requires any Scots (Galloglasses), to be imposed upon the Counties of Kildare, Kilkenny, or Tipperary, then Lex shall support 60 Scots, and shall be exempt from all subsidies for that year.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Park or Dunamase, in 1542, Donnamase with its demesne lands, Tymooge, and other lands of the late Earl of Kildare in Leix were to be restored to the King. This was part of Rory O'More's submission. The demesnes of Donnamase were to be surveyed and their extent declared by indifferent men serving as jurors on the Inquisition, while the lands and rents of the Earl of Kildare were to be handled by Thomas Wolf senior. Those lands, along with the possessions of the Nunnery of Graney, the Monastery of Saint Mary of Dublin, the monastery at Connall, and other religious houses, as well as the lands of Kyllberry, were placed at the disposition of the King's tenants and farmers. When the Lord Deputy required Galloglasses imposed upon Kildare, Kilkenny, or Tipperary, Leix was to support 60 Scots and be exempt from all subsidies for that year.

53. Ruined Church of Bodenstown

    Bodenstown · townland · Kildare · 1612–1791

    The little church of Bodenstown, against whose southern wall Wolfe Tone's grave lies, has been in ruins for about 180 years. The last record of the church being in good order was around 1612 when it was held with the Vicarage of Clane by the Bishop of Kildare.

    Read the passage

    The little church of Bodenstown, against the southern wall of which the grave lies, has been in ruins for the last 180 years. The last record of church, chancel, and books being in good order was about the year 1612 when Bodenstown was held along with the Vicarage of Clane by John (rolborne, Bishop and Archdeacon of Kildare.

    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

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 155

54. Ruined church of Kilteel at Johnstown

    Johnstown · townland · Kildare

    The church specially attached to the Kilteel preceptory, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, is now a ruin and appears to have been situated at Johnstown.

    Read the passage

    The churches specially attached to the Kildare Preceptories were dedicated to St. John the Baptist. That for Kilteel (now a ruin) appears to have been situated at Johnstown. Two others were at Killibegs and Tully.

    I do not know whether there is any complete list of the other churches which belonged to the Hospitallers in the County Kildare; but they were not few in number, and the income derived from them must have been considerable. And though the discharge of their ecclesiastical duties to these parishes may not have been very diligent, it was at least better than the utter neglect which followed, and which the State did little to remedy. The original mistake lay in giving what was essentially a military Order — the cure of souls, and thus endowing it at the expense of the church.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 83

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Johnstown, somewhere around here, stands the ruined church that belonged to the Kilteel preceptory of the Hospitallers. It was dedicated to St. John the Baptist, one of three such churches in Kildare, the others at Killibegs and Tully. The Hospitallers were a military order, and giving them the cure of souls was, in the words of one writer, the original mistake. The income from these churches must have been considerable, and the discharge of their duties to the parishes may not have been very diligent, though it was at least better than the utter neglect that followed.

55. Shaen Castle, seat of the Whitney family

    Shaen · townland · Laois · 1569–1792

    Shaen Castle, granted to the Whitney family in 1569, stood three miles to the north-east of Maryborough; no portion of the castle now stands, though views of it survive from 1778 and 1792.

    Read the passage

    No portion of this castle now stands : it was situated three miles to the north-east of Maryborough.

    HISTORICAL NOTES ON THE O’MORES.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here was Shaen Castle, granted to the Whitney family in 1569. It stood three miles to the north-east of Maryborough, but no portion of it now stands. Views of the castle survive from 1778 and 1792.

56. Sir Geoffrey de Vale's castle defence at Johnstown, 1399

    Johnstown · townland · Carlow · 1399–1406

    An Exchequer Roll records Sir Geoffrey de Vale maintaining a force of horsemen and footmen in 1399 for defence of the marches of Johnstown and elsewhere; he died in 1406 seised of the lands of Johnstown and other Carlow townlands.

    Read the passage

    An Exchequer Roll mentions a Sir Geoffrey de Yale, Kt., who, in 1399, maintained a force of horsemen and footmen for the defence “ of the marches of Johnston and elsewhere.” He, in 1380, was appointed custodian of the estate of Baldongan (Hunganstown, near Carlow), the possession of Edmund de Mortimer, Earl of March. Sir Geoffrey died in 1406, at which time he was seised of the lands of Johnstown, “ Inchecleghan,” Castletown in “ fford ” (? Forth-O’Nolan), Ballykernan Kernanstown, near Browne's Hill), and “ Horzeleyne.”2

    Thomas de Yalle was Sheriff of Carlow in 1416, and a Richard fitz Thomas de Wale held the same office in 1495.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 254

57. Sir Gerald Aylmer's tomb and church at Donadea

    Donadea · townland · Kildare · 1626–1634

    Sir Gerald Aylmer, created a Baronet in 1621, died on 19th August 1634 and was buried at Donadea in a tomb he had erected himself, along with the old church he built in 1626.

    Read the passage

    Baronet. He was the ancestor of the Aylmers of Donadea. His death took place on the 19th August, 1634, and he was buried at Donadea, in a tomb erected by him, as well as the (old) church, in 1626, for a description of which seepages 301, 305-7 of the first volume of the Journal.

    Sir Gerald was twice married : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 241

58. Sir Lional Guest knighted at Leixlip in 1604

    Leixlip · town · Kildare · 1604

    Ellenor Lynch's second husband, Sir Lional Guest, was knighted at Leixlip by the Lord Deputy, Sir George Cary, on the 5th May 1604, as part of a corrected account of her five marriages supplied by Mr. G. D. Burtchaell.

    Read the passage

    II. Sir Lional Guest (or Ghest), Kt., who was knighted at Leixlip by the Lord Deputy, Sir George Cary, Kt., on the 5th May, 1604. She was his second wife.

    III. Captain William May, of Castle Connor, aforesaid.

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 276

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Leixlip. On the 5th of May 1604, Sir Lional Guest was knighted here by the Lord Deputy, Sir George Cary. He was the second husband of Ellenor Lynch, whose five marriages were later set down in a corrected account by Mr. G. D. Burtchaell.

59. Sir William Talbot buried at Maynooth church

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1683

    Sir William Talbot of Carton died in 1683 and was buried in the Church of Maynooth, in the parish of Laraghbrian, according to the Funeral Certificate.

    Read the passage

    William Talbot, of Cartowne (Carton), was son of Patrick Talbot, by Genet, daughter of Thomas fitz Bartholomew Fitz Gerald (which Patrick was third son of William Talbot, of Robertstown, County Meath, who was younger son of Thomas Talbot, of Malahide, County Dublin). In 1602 he was appointed Recorder of Dublin, being also admitted a Freeman of the city, by special grace ; but three years later he was removed from the Recordership for refusing to take the oath of Supremacy. Subsequently, having refused to deliver an opinion on the doctrine of Suarez, touching the deposing of kings, he was committed to the Tower. Later on he appears to have regained the confidence of the Government, for he was created a baronet, 4th February, 1622, probably for services while in Parliament. Sir William married Alison, daughter of John Netterville, of Castletown, County Meath, and died 16tli March, 1683, being buried 1st April, i63f, “ in the Church of Maynooth, in the parish of Laraghbrian ” (Fun. Cert.). He had issue eight sons and eight daughters.

    I. Sir Robert Talbot, 2nd Bart., m.p., County Wicklow, June to October, 1634 ; married the Honble. Grace Calvert, daughter of George, 1st Lord Baltimore, and died 21st Octr., 1670, leaving a son and two daughters, viz. : —

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 267

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Maynooth, this is where Sir William Talbot of Carton was laid to rest in 1683. He was the son of Patrick Talbot and Genet, daughter of Thomas FitzBartholomew FitzGerald. In 1602 he was appointed Recorder of Dublin and admitted a Freeman of the city by special grace, but three years later he was removed from the Recordership for refusing to take the oath of Supremacy. He then refused to deliver an opinion on the doctrine of Suarez, touching the deposing of kings, and was committed to the Tower. He later regained the confidence of the Government and was created a baronet on 4 February 1622, probably for services while in Parliament. He married Alison, daughter of John Netterville of Castletown, County Meath. The Funeral Certificate records that he died 16 March 1683 and was buried 1 April 1683, "in the Church of Maynooth, in the parish of Laraghbrian." He left eight sons and eight daughters.

60. Slaughter of Munstermen at Killeshin (Gleann Uisean)

    Killeshin · townland · Laois · 1024

    In 1024 AD a slaughter of the men of Munster was made at Gleann Uisean, now Killeshin, attributed to the miracles of God and St Comhdhan, the patron saint of Killeshin venerated 27 February.

    Read the passage

    1024. A slaughter was made of the men of Munster by Donough, son of Hugh (? MacGorman), lord of Ui Bairrche in Gleann Uisean (now Killeshin), through the miracles of God and St. Comhdhan.

    [Ui Bairrche was a district corresponding with the present Barony of Slieve Margy ; it belonged to the Clan MacGorman. St. Comhdhan, or Comgan, the Patron-Saint of Killeshin, was venerated on the 27th of February.]

    Internet Archive journalofcountyk06coun, Chapter 20