Name: Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (vol. 7)
Author: County Kildare :County Kildare Archaeological Society

1798 Massacre of United Irishmen at Dunlavin Fair Green

Dunlavin · town · Wicklow · 1798

During the 1798 Rebellion, some thirty-six United Irishmen belonging to the Yeomanry were shot down at the Fair Green in Dunlavin, intended as a deterrent to rebels. Tradition says Captain Morley Saunders had them paraded, charged as rebels, marched under escort to Dunlavin, lodged in the Market-house, and shot the next morning.

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At the left end of the horizontal stroke are situated the Roman Catholic Church and the Fair Green ; the latter in ’98 was the scene of the shooting down of some thirty-six United Irishmen, who belonged to the Yeomanry ; this was intended to have a deterrent effect on the rebels in the locality. The traditionary account of this slaughter is to the following effect —
Captain Morley Saunders, of Saunders’ Grove, having received private information that several men in his Yeomanry Corps were United Irishmen, had them all paraded at his house, and after reading out the names of twenty-eight men, charged them with being rebels, and had them made prisoners. They were marched under escort of two troops of Ancient Britons to Dunlavin, and lodged in the Market-house, where there were already eight other brother yeomen from Narraghmore. On the following morning they were all marched to the Fair Green, and there and then shot down by the Ancient Britons.1 This occurred

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 138

As the companion tells it

Dunlavin, in Wicklow, has a story from 1798. In that year the Fair Green was the scene of the shooting down of some 36 United Irishmen who belonged to the Yeomanry. It was meant to have a deterrent effect on rebels in the locality. The traditional account goes like this. Captain Morley Saunders of Saunders' Grove received private information that several men in his Yeomanry Corps were United Irishmen. He had them all paraded at his house, read out the names of 28 men, charged them with being rebels, and had them made prisoners. They were marched under escort of two troops of Ancient Britons to Dunlavin and lodged in the Market-house, where eight other brother yeomen from Narraghmore were already held. On the following morning they were all marched to the Fair Green and there shot down by the Ancient Britons.

Sir John Bowen's defiant stand at Ballyadams Castle, 1643

Ballyadams · townland · Laois · 1643

During the Confederate siege of nearby Ballylynan Castle in 1643, Lord Castlehaven visited Ballyadams Castle to demand Sir John Bowen surrender it. Bowen refused, threatening to hang his two daughters in chairs over any breach made by cannon fire, and the tactic saved the castle.

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“ While this place was putting in order, I went with a party of horse to Ballyadams, a castle about a mile distant, belonging to Sir John Bowen, Provost-Marshal, an old soldier, and my long acquaintance. I went to speak with him, and after some kind expressions, told him I must put a garrison into his castle. He flatly denied me, and calling for his wife and two very fair daughters he had, desired only one favour, that in case I was resolved to use violence, I would show him where I intended to plant my guns and make my breach. I satisfied his curiosity, and asked him what he meant by this question. ‘ Because,’ saith he, swearing with some warmth, ‘ I will cover that part, or any other your lordship shoots at, by hanging out both my daughters in chairs.’ ’Tis true the place was not of much importance ; however, this conceit saved it.”3
1 Page 73 of the edition of 1680.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 13

As the companion tells it

Somewhere near here is Ballyadams Castle, where in 1643 Lord Castlehaven came with a party of horse to demand its surrender. The castle belonged to Sir John Bowen, Provost-Marshal, an old soldier and Castlehaven's long acquaintance. Castlehaven told him he must put a garrison into his castle. Bowen flatly denied him. He called for his wife and his two daughters, and asked only one favour: that if Castlehaven was resolved to use violence, he would show him where he intended to plant his guns and make his breach. Castlehaven satisfied his curiosity and asked what he meant by the question. Bowen answered, swearing with some warmth, "I will cover that part, or any other your lordship shoots at, by hanging out both my daughters in chairs." The place was not of much importance, Castlehaven said, but this conceit saved it.

United Irishmen Held Prisoner in Dunlavin Market-house

Dunlavin · town · Wicklow · 1798

Twenty-eight men accused of being United Irishmen were marched under escort of two troops of Ancient Britons to Dunlavin and lodged in the Market-house, where eight other yeomen from Narraghmore were already held, before being marched to the Fair Green and shot.

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Captain Morley Saunders, of Saunders’ Grove, having received private information that several men in his Yeomanry Corps were United Irishmen, had them all paraded at his house, and after reading out the names of twenty-eight men, charged them with being rebels, and had them made prisoners. They were marched under escort of two troops of Ancient Britons to Dunlavin, and lodged in the Market-house, where there were already eight other brother yeomen from Narraghmore. On the following morning they were all marched to the Fair Green, and there and then shot down by the Ancient Britons.1 This occurred
1 From local tradition supplied by Mr. C. M. Drury ; and also from P. O’Kelly’s “ History of the Rebellion of 1798, ” p. 265.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 138

As the companion tells it

In 1798, Captain Morley Saunders of Saunders' Grove received private information that several men in his Yeomanry Corps were United Irishmen. He had them paraded at his house, read out the names of 28 men, charged them with being rebels, and made them prisoners. They were marched under escort of two troops of Ancient Britons to Dunlavin and lodged in the Market-house, where eight other yeomen from Narraghmore were already held. On the following morning they were all marched to the Fair Green and shot down by the Ancient Britons.

New Grange (Brugh-na-Boinne) described as palace and tomb

Newgrange · townland · Meath

New Grange, also called Brugh-na-Boinne, is described as the most remarkable earth-house in Ireland, probably both a palace and a tomb, consisting of an enormous cairn within a curb of great stones, covering nearly two acres with a diameter of 280 feet and a height of 44 feet.

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The most remarkable earth-house in Ireland, which was probably both a palace and a tomb, is New Grange, or Brugh-na- Boinne. It was not at all unusual for a departed chieftain to be buried in the house that he had lived in. This house is described by Mr. George Coffey in the monograph that he has written on the subject, which was published by the Royal Irish Academy. He tells us the mound or tumulus itself consists of an enormous cairn of loose stones heaped within a curb of great stones 8 to 10 feet long, laid on edge, and touching end to end, over which a thin covering of grass has grown. In plan, the tumulus is circular, and covers an area of about one acre, or, taking the circle of the standing stones, nearly two acres. The greatest diameter of the mound measures 280 feet. Its present height is 44 feet. The somewhat flattened top, also found at Knowth, is not an unusual feature in such structures. A retaining wall or revetment of dry rubble, some 5 or 6 feet high, is built immediately on the base stones and is deserving of notice. It is, again, “ hard to say whether this is an original feature. It is difficult to believe that anyone should have taken the trouble to build this wall at a later time. It is not necessary for stability, any more than at Dowth and Knowth, and must have involved considerable labour ; and, though an exceptional feature, it may be urged that the tumulus is exceptional in other respects. On the other hand, this wall partakes of the character of masonry ; it is microlithic as distinguished from the general megalithic or rude-stone construction of the tumulus, and presumably later. The absence of masonry in the construction of the interior of the monument also tells against the age of the wall ; but against this we have the fact that dry masonry is found at the back of the chambers of one of the cairns on the Loughcrew Hills, in other respects of rude-stone construction. Moreover, in estimating the period to which sepulchral monuments of this class are to be ascribed, we must not leave out of account the effect of tradition and conservative feeling. It is not improbable that rude-stone construction was felt to be appropriate to, and employed in the erection of, tumuli, even after dry masonry was understood. I find it hard to believe that the builders of New Grange, who, as we shall see, were not devoid of structural enterprise, and not without some skill in the working of stone, as shown in the carefully wrought stone basin in the centre of the chamber, were still wholly within the Stone

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 47

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Newgrange is the most remarkable earth-house in Ireland. It was called New Grange, or Brugh-na-Boinne, and it was probably both a palace and a tomb. It was not unusual for a departed chieftain to be buried in the house he had lived in. George Coffey wrote a monograph on the subject, published by the Royal Irish Academy. The mound consists of an enormous cairn of loose stones heaped within a curb of great stones, 8 to 10 feet long, laid on edge and touching end to end, over which a thin covering of grass has grown. In plan the tumulus is circular, covering about one acre, or nearly two acres if you take the circle of standing stones. The greatest diameter measures 280 feet, and its present height is 44 feet. The somewhat flattened top is also found at Knowth and is not unusual in such structures. A retaining wall of dry rubble, some 5 or 6 feet high, is built on the base stones. Coffey found it hard to say whether this wall is original. It is not necessary for stability, any more than at Dowth and Knowth, and must have involved considerable labour. The wall is microlithic, as distinguished from the general megalithic construction of the tumulus, and presumably later. But dry masonry is found at the back of the chambers of one of the cairns on the Loughcrew Hills, otherwise of rude-stone construction. Coffey thought rude-stone construction may have been felt appropriate for tumuli even after dry masonry was understood. He found it hard to believe that the builders of New Grange, who showed skill in the working of stone, as seen in the carefully wrought stone basin in the centre of the chamber, were wholly within the Stone Age.

The Bishop's visit to Father Moore over reports of scandal

Rathbride · townland · Kildare · 1826

Local gentry reported Father Moore to his bishop as a public scandal due to his fame for healing. The Bishop visited him accompanied by Father Brennan, P.P. of Kildare, and Father Moore defended his work, performing a demonstration with candles that convinced the Bishop his power was divinely given.

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should be brought into the room and placed on the table, and putting on his stole he commenced devoutly to read aloud from the Bible ; after a little he stopped, and going up to the candles he breathed on them, and immediately they became ignited. Father Moore then dared anyone present to extinguish them, but no one attempted to do so.1 2 The Bishop thereupon being convinced that Father Moore’s extraordinary power was given to him from Above, simply said, “Father Moore, continue your good work,” and departed.
This good man has been said by some people to have been a “silenced” priest; but such was not the case, as he is stated on the best authority to have refused a parish in order that, by prayer and fasting, he might devote himself solely to the relief of those who suffered from bodily ailments.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun

As the companion tells it

Somewhere near here in 1826, local gentry reported Father Moore to his bishop as a public scandal because of his fame for healing. The Bishop visited, accompanied by Father Brennan, parish priest of Kildare. Father Moore had candles brought in and placed on the table. Putting on his stole, he read aloud from the Bible. After a little he stopped, went to the candles, and breathed on them, and immediately they became ignited. He dared anyone present to extinguish them, but no one attempted it. The Bishop, convinced that Father Moore's extraordinary power was given to him from Above, simply said the words, 'Father Moore, continue your good work,' and departed. Some said he was a silenced priest, but the best authority states he refused a parish, devoting himself by prayer and fasting solely to the relief of those suffering from bodily ailments.

The cross that returned itself after failed removal to Kilcullen

Lipstown · townland · Kildare

Tradition holds that an attempt was made to remove the Lipstown cross to Kilcullen; it was dragged as far as the Cross-field's eastern ditch but could not be moved further, and by the next morning had mysteriously returned to its original position, ending further attempts to move it.

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stirred. Night coming on, operations were suspended till the following morning; and next morning it was discovered that the cross was back again in its former position, so no further attempt was again made to meddle with it.
A modern Protestant church stands in Narraghmore churchyard. The latter contains no tomb or slab belonging to the Wellesley family, nor is there any relic of the former church with the exception of an ancient granite font, large, plain, and bulb-shaped ; it rests on a circular granite base, the outlet for the water being in the centre of the bowl.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 155

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, there's a cross with a stubborn streak. People tried to drag it off to Kilcullen once, but they only got it as far as the eastern ditch of the Cross-field before they had to stop for the night. By morning, it was back in its former position, and nobody ever tried to meddle with it again.

Walter FitzGerald executed at Tyburn following Silken Thomas rebellion

Ticroghan · townland · Meath · 1534–1537

Walter FitzGerald of Ticroghan, though a loyal Crown officer who advised against the rebellion, was arrested along with his brothers and nephew Silken Thomas after the rebellion's suppression and sent to the Tower of London to be executed at Tyburn in 1537.

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Walter FitzGerald was of Ticroghan, in the County Meath. On the breaking out of his nephew, the Silken Thomas’s, rebellion in 1584, he strongly advised him against it ; and though he was actually a faithful officer in the service of the Crown, yet on the suppression of the rebellion he was arrested, sent to the Tower of London with his four brothers and his nephew, to be hanged, drawn, and quartered at Tyburn on the 3rd February, 1537. Walter FitzGerald had married Elizabeth, daughter of Robert Plunkett, fifth Baron Dunsany, by his wife, Elizabeth, daughter of Sir William Darcy, of Platin, in the County Meath ; the issue of this marriage was a son — Maurice — the first of his name in Glassealy. The proof of this descent is to be found in the Annals of Lough Key, where, under the year 1587, in dealing with Walter “ reagh ” (i.e. the swarthy), one of Maurice’s sons, he is described as “ Walter riabhach, the son of Maurice, son of Walter, son of the Earl (of Kildare).” 1
The FitzGeralds of Glassealy.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 61

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Ticroghan, Walter FitzGerald had his lands. When his nephew Silken Thomas broke into rebellion in 1534, Walter strongly advised him against it. He was himself a faithful officer in the service of the Crown. Yet when the rebellion was suppressed, he was arrested along with his four brothers and his nephew, sent to the Tower of London, and hanged, drawn, and quartered at Tyburn on the 3rd of February, 1537. He had married Elizabeth, daughter of Robert Plunkett, fifth Baron Dunsany, whose wife Elizabeth was daughter of Sir William Darcy of Platin in County Meath. Their son was Maurice, the first of that name in Glassealy. The Annals of Lough Key, under the year 1587, confirm this line, describing Walter reagh, one of Maurice's sons, as "Walter riabhach, the son of Maurice, son of Walter, son of the Earl of Kildare."

Battle of Glenn Mama fought beside Liamhain, AD 1000

Lyons · townland · Kildare · 1000

The Cogadh Gaedhel re Gallaibh records that the Leinstermen and Danes came to encounter Brian at Glenn Mama, near Liamhain (Lyons), after placing their cattle and families for safety in the Dublin territory.

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Now the cows and families of the Leinster men were placed in Ascail Gall, and in Ui Briuin Chualand, and in Ui Gabhra, and in Ui Donchadha, and the Leinster men and the foreigners came beyond the families to meet Brian and to encounter him — viz., to Glend Md,ma.
Dr. Todd in a note states that one MS. has the reading “ i n-Osgaill Gall i n-Uibh Briuin Cualann 7 i n-Ibh Gabhra,” which “ would seem to make it (Ascaill Gall), a place in the territory of Ui Briuin Cualann, a district embracing the greater part of the barony of Rathdown, and a portion of the north of the County Wicklow.” It is clear from both extracts that Ascail Gall {lit., the angle or district of the foreigners or Danes) was the Irish name for that portion of territory in the possession of the Danes of Dublin, i.e., the city and its immediate neighbourhood, which afterwards became “ The County of the City of Dublin” (Dublin with its franchises). The Danes themselves called it in their own language Dyflinnarskiri (= “Dublinshire ”). Ui Briuin Chualann bordered it on the south ; to the west of this was probably situate Ui Ghabhra (=the eastern portion of the

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 216

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in the year 1000, the Leinstermen and the Danes came to encounter Brian at Glenn Mama, near Liamhain, which is Lyons. Before the battle, they had placed their cattle and families in safety. The cows and families of the Leinstermen were placed in Ascail Gall, in Ui Briuin Chualann, in Ui Gabhra, and in Ui Donchadha. Then the Leinstermen and the foreigners came beyond the families to meet Brian and to encounter him, at Glenn Mama. Todd notes that one manuscript reads Ascail Gall as a place in the territory of Ui Briuin Cualann, a district embracing the greater part of the barony of Rathdown and a portion of the north of County Wicklow. Ascail Gall, meaning the angle or district of the foreigners or Danes, was the Irish name for that portion of territory in the possession of the Danes of Dublin, the city and its immediate neighbourhood. The Danes themselves called it Dyflinnarskiri, meaning Dublinshire. Ui Briuin Chualann bordered it on the south, and to the west was probably situated Ui Ghabhra.

Death of Art MacMurrough by poison at New Ross (1417)

New Ross · townland · Wexford · 1417

According to the Annals of the Four Masters, Art MacMurrough, Lord of Leinster, died a week after Christmas in his sixtieth year, reportedly poisoned by a woman along with O'Doran, Chief Brehon of Leinster, at Ros-mic-Triuin, now New Ross.

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“Art, the son of Art, son of Murtough, son of Maurice, Lord of Leinster,2 a man who had defended his own Province against the English and Irish from his sixteenth to his sixtieth year — a man full of hospitality, knowledge, and chivalry ; a man full of prosperity and royalty ; the enricher of churches and monasteries, by his alms and offerings. After having been forty-two years in the lordship of Leinster, died a week after Christmas. Some assert that it was of a poisonous drink which a woman gave to him and to O’Doran, Chief Brehon (judge) of Leinster, at Ros-mic Triuin (now New Ross), that both died. Donough his son assumed his place after him.
“ Dermot Lauvderg (of the red hand), the son of Art MacMurrough (Kavanagh), i.e., the son of the King of Leinster, died.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 151

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to New Ross, Art MacMurrough, Lord of Leinster, met his end in 1417. He was a man who had defended his province against the English and Irish from his 16th to his 60th year. The Annals of the Four Masters remember him as full of hospitality, knowledge, and chivalry, a man full of prosperity and royalty, the enricher of churches and monasteries by his alms and offerings. He had held the lordship of Leinster for 42 years. He died a week after Christmas. Some say it was a poisonous drink a woman gave to him and to O'Doran, Chief Brehon of Leinster, that killed them both. Donough, his son, took his place after him.

Father Moore's Well at Rathbride and its curative reputation

Rathbride · townland · Kildare · 1826

Father Moore's Blessed Well at Rathbride, situated by a boreen off the Kildare-Milltown road, is visited for cures at all seasons, especially Fridays. Father John Moore, who lived nearby and had a remarkable gift for healing, blessed the well before his death so people could still be cured after he passed away.

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This Blessed Well is situated by the side of a boreen, a few perches in from the public road, leading from Kildare to Milltown ; it is visited for cures at all seasons of the year, especially on Fridays.
Father John Moore lived with his mother in a thatched house a short distance beyond the Well, of which nothing but the walls is now standing. He had a remarkable gift in effecting cures of various ailments, and before his death, in 1826, he blessed this Well in order that those performing stations at it might still be cured after he had passed away, hence it became known as “ Father Moore’s Well ” ; and the sticks and crutches stuck in the soft ground on the Well’s margin, left behind by those who had no further need of them, fully attest its curative powers ; the wooden crosses placed at the Well, in like manner, were brought by those who, in gratitude for their cures, returned to the Well for that purpose.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 195

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Rathbride there is a blessed well, set by a boreen off the road from Kildare to Milltown. People come here for cures at all seasons of the year, especially on Fridays. Father John Moore lived with his mother in a thatched house a short distance beyond the well. By his time only the walls were standing. He had a remarkable gift for effecting cures of various ailments. Before his death in 1826, he blessed this well so that those performing stations at it might still be cured after he had passed away. That is why it became known as Father Moore's Well. Sticks and crutches were stuck in the soft ground at the well's margin, left behind by those who had no further need of them, and they fully attest its curative powers. Wooden crosses placed at the well were brought by those who returned in gratitude for their cures.

Folk belief linking the Bowen tomb effigies to the Mullaghmast massacre

Ballyadams · townland · Laois · 1577

Peasantry smashed the covering slab of the Bowen altar-tomb at Ballyadams under the mistaken belief that its effigies represented the notorious Shane-a-feeka Bowen, hated for cruelty to the native Irish and supposed complicity in the 1577 Mullaghmast massacre, though he was not then alive.

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The altar-tomb now consists of the three sides, of which only some eighteen inches appear above the present level of the ground. The covering slab during the last century, after the dismantling of the church, was wantonly smashed up by the peasantry, under the impression that the two effigies on it (a knight and his wife) represented the notorious Shane-a-feeka Bowen and his wife, the former of whom was bitterly hated for his cruelty to the native Irish, and for his supposed complicity in the massacre at Mullaghmast in 1577, though as a matter of fact he was not then alive. Fragments of the effigy-slab are to
Born February, 1759 ; died in Dublin, August, 1830.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 22

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in Ballyadams, there was an altar-tomb in the church. After the church was dismantled, the covering slab was smashed up by the peasantry. They believed the two effigies on it, a knight and his wife, represented the notorious Shane-a-feeka Bowen and his wife. He was bitterly hated for his cruelty to the native Irish, and for his supposed complicity in the massacre at Mullaghmast in 1577. As a matter of fact, he was not then alive. The tomb now consists of three sides, of which only some eighteen inches appear above the present level of the ground. Fragments of the effigy-slab are still to be seen.

Lord Leonard Grey created Viscount Graney, later executed

Graney · parish · Kildare · 1536–1541

In 1536, Lord Leonard Grey, Marshal of the Army in Ireland, was created Viscount Graney by Letters Patent, shortly before the Priory's suppression. He later obtained a grant of the Priory's possessions in 1539, but was recalled to England on treason charges and executed in 1541.

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the sixth son of Thomas, Marquis of Dorset. Just three years later, on the 7th February, 1539, Lord Leonard Grey obtained a grant of the possessions of the Priory1 ; these he did not long enjoy, as in 1540 he was re-called to England to answer charges of treason brought against him by his enemies, with the result that, in spite of his faithful services to the Crown, he was found guilty, attainted, and executed in 1541. As he was not married, the title expired with him.
The next possessor of the Priory and Manor of Graney was Sir Anthony St. Leger, Kt.,2 Lord Deputy of Ireland from 1540 to 1547, in 1550, and again from 1553 to 1556 ; his death took place three years later. Sir Anthony’s Grant was dated the 4th May, 1542 ; on the 23rd September, 1541, the King had written to him and the Council on State matters, one paragraph of the letter being thus worded : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 222

As the companion tells it

This is the parish of Graney. In 1536 Lord Leonard Grey, Marshal of the Army in Ireland and the sixth son of Thomas, Marquis of Dorset, was created Viscount Graney by Letters Patent. On the 7th of February 1539 he obtained a grant of the possessions of the Priory, but he did not enjoy them long. In 1540 he was recalled to England to answer charges of treason brought against him by his enemies. In spite of his faithful services to the Crown, he was found guilty, attainted, and executed in 1541. As he was not married, the title expired with him. The next possessor of the Priory and Manor of Graney was Sir Anthony St. Leger, Lord Deputy of Ireland, whose grant was dated the 4th of May 1542.

The Old Castle of Harristown and its Wonders

Harristown · townland · Kildare · 1748

A 1748 writer described the old castle at Harristown, seat of the Eustaces and Chetwoods, as a grand dwelling with a noble court, standing on a hill above the Liffey. He recounted an extraordinary artificial lake with a fully-rigged model ship, guns firing, and sailors at their duties, used to entertain visitors.

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1748, when it was in the possession of Mr. Chetwood’s eldest son, it was “ a large dwelling with a noble court before it, that bore the face of venerable antiquity (but yet no decay appeared in any part of its form).” “ The situation/’ he continues, “is on the summit of an hill, and the front looks down from an high eminence into the River Liffey ; but what charmed us beyond imagination was a vast body of water, in an artificial bed of a large extent, where we saw a ship completely furnished, as if ready to make a long voyage by sea ; her sails spread, her colours flying, anchors weighed, guns firing, and the sailors neatly dressed, everyone at their proper function, with their usual seaterms. In a neat pleasure-boat we were conveyed on board, where in a cabin finely adorned we were seated and served with an elegant entertainment by the worthy owner, and among the rest with sea-provisions, biscuit, etc., the guns echoing round the adjacent woods and mountains that seemed to us like a piece of enchantment ; all this in a basin upon a high hill, I believe, a hundred yards above the river, made by art, the bottom and sides paved.” This artificial lake contained innumerable carp and tench, “ whose taste equals those of Hampton Court.”
Mr. Chetwood, whose eldest brother was ancestor of the family still seated at Woodbrook, Queen’s County, married first, 25th November, 1694, Catherine, eldest daughter of Nicholas Jones, of Dublin, M.P. for Naas, 1692-98, and by her, who died in 1695, had an only child, Elizabeth, who married 22nd February, 1715, Christopher Ussher, of Mount Ussher, County Wicklow. He married secondly, in 1708, Anne, who died 1714, elder daughter and co-heiress of Sir Maurice Eustace, and died in 1728, having by her had issue

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Harristown stood the old castle, seat of the Eustaces and Chetwoods. In 1748, when it belonged to Mr. Chetwood's eldest son, a writer called it a large dwelling with a noble court before it, that bore the face of venerable antiquity, yet no decay appeared in any part of its form. The situation was on the summit of a hill, and the front looked down from a high eminence into the River Liffey. What charmed the writer beyond imagination was a vast body of water in an artificial bed of large extent, where sat a ship completely furnished, as if ready to make a long voyage by sea: her sails spread, her colours flying, anchors weighed, guns firing, and sailors neatly dressed, everyone at their proper function with their usual sea-terms. In a neat pleasure-boat the visitors were conveyed on board, where in a cabin finely adorned they were seated and served with an elegant entertainment by the worthy owner, among the rest with sea-provisions and biscuit, the guns echoing round the adjacent woods and mountains like a piece of enchantment. All this stood in a basin upon a high hill, believed a hundred yards above the river, made by art, the bottom and sides paved. The artificial lake contained innumerable carp and tench, whose taste, the writer said, equals those of Hampton Court. Mr. Chetwood, whose eldest brother was ancestor of the family still seated at Woodbrook, Queen's County, married first on the 25th of November 1694 Catherine, eldest daughter of Nicholas Jones of Dublin, member of Parliament for Naas from 1692 to 1698. She died in 1695, leaving an only child, Elizabeth, who married on the 22nd of February 1715 Christopher Ussher of Mount Ussher, County Wicklow. He married secondly in 1708 Anne, elder daughter and co-heiress of Sir Maurice Eustace. She died in 1714, and he died in 1728.

Wretched cave-dwellers of Omey Island, Connemara

near Omey Island · island or archipelago · Galway · 1853

On the Island of Omey off the Connemara coast, about two hundred people lived in extreme poverty, subsisting on shell-fish, sea-weed and potatoes, dwelling in mere excavations in the sand covered with sods and sea-weed, some huts only six feet in diameter.

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“ This island — the name of which in Irish signifies forlorn, or desolate— is situated off the Connemara coast, in the County of Galway, about seven miles from Clifden. It contains an area of three hundred acres, with a population of two hundred, whose sole subsistence consists in shell-fish, sea- weed, and potatoes. The waves of the broad Atlantic dash against its rocky shore, and the roar of the ocean billow reverberates along its beach, although, when the tide is out, it is easy of access, not being more than a hundred yards from the mainland. Nothing can be more wretched than the temporal condition of its inhabitants. Their huts are merely excavations in the sand, covered over with sods and seaweed ; and might, indeed, easily escape the notice of a casual observer. I went into one of them, which could not certainly have been more than six feet in diameter, and five or six feet in height. A small portion of dried grass for a bed, a pot for boiling sea-weed collected on the shore, and a few potatoes, was all that appeared in this miserable hovel, the entrance to which answered the purpose of a window, a chimney, and a door. A County Mayo Resident Magistrate recently told a relative of mine that cave-dwellers frequently came before his Court ; they seem to be a strange, wild people and do not speak one word of English, consequently they always bring an interpreter with them. The disputes they bring before him are nearly always about the ownership of cattle.”
History tells us that this country of ours received three successive great colonies, or was under the dominion of three successive tribes, who all seem to have spoken the same language, and were all probably Celts. These, each in their turn, ruled over the land. First came the Firbolgs, a small, swarthy, dark race, then the De Dannan, a large, fair, light-haired people, and lastly, the Milesians.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 48

As the companion tells it

Omey Island lies off the Connemara coast in County Galway, about seven miles from Clifden. The name in Irish means forlorn, or desolate. It contained 300 acres, and in 1853 about 200 people lived there. Their sole subsistence consisted in shell-fish, seaweed, and potatoes. The waves of the broad Atlantic dashed against its rocky shore, and the roar of the ocean billow reverberated along its beach. When the tide was out, it was easy of access, not being more than 100 yards from the mainland. Nothing could be more wretched than the condition of its inhabitants. Their huts were merely excavations in the sand, covered over with sods and seaweed, and might easily have escaped the notice of a casual observer. The writer went into one of them, which could not have been more than 6 feet in diameter, and 5 or 6 feet in height. A small portion of dried grass for a bed, a pot for boiling seaweed collected on the shore, and a few potatoes, was all that appeared in this miserable hovel. The entrance "answered the purpose of a window, a chimney, and a door." A County Mayo Resident Magistrate told a relative of the writer that cave-dwellers frequently came before his Court. They seemed to be a strange, wild people and did not speak one word of English, so they always brought an interpreter with them. The disputes they brought before him were nearly always about the ownership of cattle.

Capture of Walter Reagh, April 1595

Ballinacor · townland · Wicklow · 1595

Wounded in a castle attack, Walter Reagh was hidden in a subterranean cave in the mountains under care of a physician who betrayed him; his hiding-place was revealed to Sir Henry Harrington by the sons of Felim O'Toole.

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During the month of March “ Walter Reagh made an attack on a neighbouring castle belonging to a gentleman of his enemies. But the gentleman was wary and vigilant, and in readiness against any attack of his enemies. When Walter and his people attacked the castle, the gentleman came to a bold and fierce combat with Walter, and they struck at each other furiously and inimically, and Walter was wounded in the leg. His people carried him off to the nearest mountain, and they placed him under cure in a subterranean cave, with the situation of which no three persons were acquainted. They left with him only one young physician of his own faithful people, who was wont to go every second day to the nearest woods to gather herbs. A conversation privately occurred between this man and a party of Walter’s enemies, and he having leagued with them, betrayed Walter and led a party to where he was, who bound him.” 4
The capture mentioned above took place on the 7th of April ; Walter Reagh’s hiding-place was revealed to Sir Henry Harrington by the assistance of Dermott, Art, Roan, Tibbott, and Garrett, sons of Felim O’Toole, probably to save their own lives, as it was a common practice even in those days to offer a free pardon to an informer on condition of his betraying his comrades; but the sons of Felim O’Toole bought their freedom dearly, as in August the following year Sir Henry wrote to Sir

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 78

As the companion tells it

Close to Ballinacor, in 1595, Walter Reagh was captured through betrayal. In March, Walter made an attack on a neighbouring castle belonging to a gentleman of his enemies. The gentleman was wary and vigilant, and ready against any attack. When Walter and his people attacked the castle, the gentleman came to fierce combat with Walter, and they struck at each other furiously. Walter was wounded in the leg. His people carried him off to the nearest mountain and placed him under cure in a subterranean cave, which no three persons knew of. They left with him only one young physician of his own people, who went every second day to the nearest woods to gather herbs. A conversation privately occurred between this physician and a party of Walter's enemies. He leagued with them, betrayed Walter, and led a party to where he was, who bound him. The capture took place on the 7th of April. Walter Reagh's hiding-place was revealed to Sir Henry Harrington by the assistance of Dermott, Art, Roan, Tibbott, and Garrett, sons of Felim O'Toole. This was probably to save their own lives, as it was a common practice even in those days to offer a free pardon to an informer on condition of his betraying his comrades.

Destruction of the Bowen tomb effigies during a Whitefeet funeral, 1832

Ballyadams · townland · Laois · 1832

An old man named Dunne recalled witnessing as a boy a long funeral procession to Ballyadams churchyard for a member of the Anti-tithe Society known as the Whitefeet; mourners, many drunk, hurled stones at the tomb effigies, badly damaging them in 1832.

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be seen in sundry gaps round about. An old man of the name of Dunne, who lives in the locality, informed me a few years ago that he could remember when he was a gossoon seeing a long funeral wending its way to the churchyard, to bury the corpse of a man who had been a member of the Anti-tithe Society, known as “the Whitefeet ’V many of those who attended the funeral were the worse for liquor, and before they left the place they hurled large stones at the effigies, which were then placed upright against the wall, damaging them badly ; this occurred in 1882, and the work of destruction still continues to other portions of the monument.
Austin Cooper, who visited this church on the 10th of August, 1782, records in his Journal that near—

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 23

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here lies Ballyadams churchyard. An old man named Dunne, who lived in the locality, recalled that as a boy he watched a long funeral procession winding its way to the churchyard. They were burying a man who had been a member of the Anti-tithe Society, known as the Whitefeet. Many of those who attended were the worse for liquor. Before they left the place, they hurled large stones at the effigies, which were then standing upright against the wall, and damaged them badly. This was in 1832. The destruction has continued on other portions of the monument since then.

The Eccentric Collector Harrington of Timolin

Timolin · townland · Kildare

A singular old man named Harrington near Timolin was reputed to have untold wealth and spent it buying costly curiosities such as old china, pictures, shells, and enamel miniatures displayed haphazardly in his house. He overspent, his creditors seized his collections and sold them, and he reportedly died in prison.

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at home then, and farmed some land adjoining the Glebe. One of my favourite amusements was to visit a singular old man of the name of Harrington. He wore powder and knee-breeches, and was supposed to have untold wealth, and spent it all in buying up all sorts of the most costly curiosities — old china, pictures, shells, minerals, books of coloured engravings, and especially enamel miniatures. They were never arranged, but hung all over his house, I was allowed to do what I liked — roam about and handle everything. This singular old man had luncheon always ready for visitors. He spent beyond his means, and his creditors at last lost patience, seized his collections, and had them sold ; and I believe the poor man died in prison.
“ The neighbourhoood of Timolin is rich in ruins. The rudeness of the architecture seems to place their date before all existing orders. Such are the ruins of Killelan, once the church of one of the parishes which was included in the union which formed my ather’s parish.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 159

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Timolin, there lived a singular old man named Harrington. A young visitor whose family farmed land adjoining the Glebe would come to call as one of his favourite amusements. Harrington wore powder and knee-breeches, and was supposed to have untold wealth. He spent it all in buying up all sorts of costly curiosities — old china, pictures, shells, minerals, books of coloured engravings, and especially enamel miniatures. Nothing was ever arranged. They hung all over his house, and the young visitor was allowed to roam about and handle everything. Harrington kept luncheon always ready for visitors. But he spent beyond his means, and his creditors at last lost patience. They seized his collections and had them sold. The poor man, it is believed, died in prison.

Bishop Conlaed devoured by wolves near Liamhain

Skeagh · townland · Cavan

According to the Feilire Oengusa, Bishop Conlaed of Kildare, chief artificer of St. Brigid, was devoured by wolves at Sciaich Chondlaid beside Liamhain after violating Brigit's command by journeying to Rome. Brigit had prayed he would die a sudden death, which was fulfilled.

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The death of Conlsed, Ronchend was Conlsed’s name at first, and it is he who is called Mochonda (My Conda) of Daire. Conlsed, that is, Cunnail HEd, that is, HEd Cunnail (friendly HEd) was his name, and he was Bishop of Kildare, and wolves devoured him at Sciaich Chondlaid beside Liamhain in Mag Laigen, that is, Condlsed son of Cormac son of HEngus son of Eochaid Setna son of Fothad son of Eochaid Laimderg son of Mesincorb. Now Conlsed was Brigit’ s chief artificer, and this is why he died by the wolves, viz., a journey he made to Rome in violation of Brigit’s command, so that Brigit prayed that he should die a sudden death on the way, and it is that very thing that was fulfilled.
The Sciaich Chondlaid (Conlsed’s whitethorns) dat. Scechaib Condlaid, described above as being beside Liamain- is the present townland of Skeagh, beside Lyons, and bordering it on the north-east side.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 214

As the companion tells it

Close to Skeagh is a place the old record calls Sciaich Chondlaid, Conlaed's whitethorns. A man named Conlaed was devoured by wolves at this spot, beside Liamhain in Mag Laigen. Conlaed was Bishop of Kildare. His name at first was Ronchend, and he was also called Mochonda, meaning "my Conda," of Daire. Another of his names meant friendly. He was Brigit's chief artificer. He made a journey to Rome in violation of Brigit's command. Brigit prayed that he should die a sudden death on the way, and that is exactly what was fulfilled. His lineage was Conlaed son of Cormac son of Hengus son of Eochaid Setna son of Fothad son of Eochaid Laimderg son of Mesincorb. The old name for this place, Conlaed's whitethorns, is the name it still carries.

Capture and Death of 'Black Top' near Athy

Athy · town · Kildare · 1799

More than a year after 1798, Captain Rawson tracked the rebel leader 'Black Top' to a house in Athy; the man fled toward Monavullagh Bog but was overtaken and shot, later suffering death for his crimes.

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After the destruction of Glassealy House the Rawsons lived at Cardingtown House, near Athy. More than a year after '98 Captain Rawson was given “the hard word,” that the notorious “ Black Top ” and a confederate were hiding in a house in Athy. Bent on arresting them, he at once proceeded to the place indicated, and, stationing his son at the door, entered the house. The confederate in endeavouring to escape by the door was seized and bound by young Rawson ; “ Black Top ” leaped out of a window at the back of the house, and ran for Monavullagh Bog. Captain Rawson, seeing the line he took, rushed down, mounted his horse, and, galloping after him across country, overtook him before he could reach the bog. “ Black Top ” was brought to bay near a heap of stones, with which he defended himself, being unarmed ; and, as he refused to surrender, Captain Rawson drew a pistol from his holster and disabled him by a shot in the shoulder. “Black Top” and his confederate both suffered death for the murders they had committed during the rebellion.
After leading a life of great extravagance at Cardingtown, Captain Rawson died in 1814, aged sixty-six. His second son, Robert, succeeded him, and built the present house at Glassealy in 1818, the ruins of the old house being converted into farm stables and out-offices. Robert married Maria, daughter of George Mansergh, and, dying in 1854 in his eighty-second year, was succeeded by his eldest son, Lewis Rawson, at Glassealy. His second son was Dr. Thomas James Rawson, m.d., of Carlow. Lewis Rawson was married to Barbara, daughter of James Blacker, Esq., of Dublin, and sister of the Rev. George Blacker, Rector of Maynooth. As he died in debt in 1861, aged fiftyseven, Glassealy was sold in 1868, and purchased by Mr. Philip S. Barrington, whose son-in-law, Mr. Egerton Hammond, bought out under the Wyndham Act of 1908, at which time all the remainder of the Leinster estate also changed hands.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 71

As the companion tells it

Athy is a town the road passes through. In 1799, more than a year after the rebellion of 1798, the town became the ground where a rebel leader known as Black Top met his end. Captain Rawson, whose family had been living at Cardingtown House nearby since the destruction of their earlier home at Glassealy, received word that Black Top and a confederate were hiding in a house in the town. He set out to arrest them. Stationing his son at the door, he entered the house. The confederate tried to escape by the door, but young Rawson seized and bound him. Black Top leaped out of a back window and ran for Monavullagh Bog. Captain Rawson saw the line he took, rushed down, mounted his horse, and galloped across country in pursuit. He overtook Black Top before the man could reach the bog. Black Top was brought to bay near a heap of stones. Being unarmed, he defended himself with the stones, and as he refused to surrender, Captain Rawson drew a pistol from his holster and disabled him with a shot in the shoulder. Black Top and his confederate both suffered death for the murders they had committed during the rebellion. Captain Rawson went on to lead a life of great extravagance at Cardingtown. He died in 1814, aged 66. His second son Robert succeeded him and built the present house at Glassealy in 1818, the ruins of the old house being converted into farm stables and out-offices.

Demolition of Graney Priory ruins and destruction of the 'Greek stone', c.1830-1875

Graney · parish · Kildare · 1830–1875

The ruins of Graney Priory, still visible in Pococke's time, were finally demolished about 1830, leaving only fragments of walls and cut-stone mullions. Around 1875 an insane blacksmith named Byan smashed the inscribed 'Greek stone' covering Mary's Well with a sledge-hammer, destroying the relic.

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The ruins mentioned by Dr. Pococke are not now standing, with the exception of small portions of the walls, though the uneven surface of the ground shows traces of extensive foundations. According to Dr. Moran’s Edition of Archdall’s “ Monasticon Hibernicum ” (p. 258ofvol. ii), the ruins were finally demolished about the year 1830. Cut-stone mullions project from the ground in several places. A well, called “ Mary’s Well,” is situated, in a neglected condition, in the middle of a potato-plot at the back of the forge. Formerly it was partly covered by a large flag bearing sculpturing and inscriptions, said by those unable to decipher them to be in Hebrew or Greek letters ; but in all probability they were cut in the Gothic or “ black-letter ” type and in Latin. In or about the year 1875 a blacksmith in Graney named Byan became insane, and with a sledge-hammer battered the so-called “ Greek stone ” to fragments, thus destroying for ever an interesting relic of mediaeval times.
Graney Castle is said to have stood a short way down the river from the Nunnery ; a former tenant, named Owen McDonald, or

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 223

As the companion tells it

The road takes you through or near the parish of Graney, in Kildare. The ruins of a priory here were recorded by Doctor Pococke, but they are no longer standing. According to Doctor Moran's edition of Archdall's Monasticon Hibernicum, the ruins were finally demolished about the year 1830. Small portions of the walls remain, and the uneven ground still shows traces of extensive foundations. Cut-stone mullions project from the ground in several places. A well called Mary's Well sits in a neglected condition in the middle of a potato-plot at the back of the forge. It was formerly partly covered by a large flag bearing sculpturing and inscriptions. People who could not decipher them said the letters were Hebrew or Greek, though they were probably cut in Gothic black-letter type and in Latin. In or about the year 1875, a blacksmith in Graney named Byan became insane. He took a sledge-hammer and battered the so-called Greek stone to fragments, destroying for ever an interesting relic of mediaeval times. Graney Castle is said to have stood a short way down the river from the Nunnery, where a former tenant named Owen McDonald once lived.

Hell Fire Club Orgies at Grangemellon Mansion

Grangemellon · townland · Kildare · 1782

John St. Leger's mansion house at Grangemellon occasionally hosted the orgies of the notorious Hell Fire Club, of which he was a dissolute member. By Austin Cooper's time in 1782 the house, with its two octagon towers and heavy pediment, was described as a 'fine old but neglected improvement.'

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Mr. St. Leger, who served as High Sheriff in 1759, represented Athy for less than a year. In the previous Parliament (1761-68) he had sat for the family borough of Doneraile. He was a dissolute character, and a member of the notorious Hell Fire Club.1 Their orgies occasionally took place in his mansion house at Grangemellon, which, in Austin Cooper’s time (1782), consisted of two octagon towers, with a heavy pediment and cornice between, and is described by him as a “ fine old but neglected improvement.” The estate had belonged to John Lyons, a former Member for this Borough, from whom it was purchased by Sir John,2 on 29th March, 1716, for ^£1,000.
1 In the picture of the members in the National Gallery of Ireland he is represented wearing their uniform of a scarlet suit with white silk stockings.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 142

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stood a mansion house at Grangemellon that belonged to a dissolute man named St. Leger. He served as High Sheriff in 1759 and sat in Parliament for Doneraile, then for Athy for less than a year. He was a member of the notorious Hell Fire Club, and their orgies occasionally took place in his mansion house. By 1782, when Austin Cooper saw the place, it consisted of two octagon towers with a heavy pediment and cornice between them. Cooper described it as a "fine old but neglected improvement." The estate had belonged to John Lyons, a former Member for the Borough, and was purchased on 29 March 1716 for £1,000.

John Bowen 'Shane-a-feeka' and tales of horror at Ballyadams

Ballyadams · townland · Laois

John Thomas alias Bowen, called by the Irish 'Shane-a-feeka' or John of the Pike, was known as a cruel and brutal man. Tales of horror connected with him are still told around Ballyadams Castle.

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By the Irish, John Bowen (to give him his correct name) was called “ Shane-a-feeka ” or John of the Pike, in connexion with whom tales of horror are still told around Ballyadams Castle, which depict him as a cruel and brutal man. His descendants continued to reside at the Castle, till the end of the seventeenth century, about which period the line ended in heiresses, though Burke’s “ Landed Gentry ” states there is a family of Bowen of Hollymount in the County Mayo sprung from the Ballyadams family, without, however, giving the connexion.
As “ John Thomas of Ballyadams ” his name appears first in the list of jurors on the Inquisition held in Maryborough on the 17th June, 1566, to inquire into Rory “ caech ” O’More’s possessions (as mentioned above). And tradition couples his name with the massacre of the Irish at the Rath of Mullaghmast (County Kildare) on New Year’s Day, 1577 ; but in this case it errs, as his eldest son was granted livery of the family estates on the 24th of February, 1570, which proves that his father was then dead.4

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is Ballyadams Castle, and a name still attached to it in old stories: John Bowen, though his correct name was John Thomas. The Irish called him "Shane-a-feeka," John of the Pike, and the tales told of him around the castle depict a cruel and brutal man. His name first appears in the record on the 17th of June, 1566, among the jurors at an inquisition in Maryborough, inquiring into the possessions of Rory "caech" O'More. Tradition also links him to the massacre of the Irish at the Rath of Mullaghmast in County Kildare on New Year's Day, 1577. But tradition errs here. His eldest son was granted livery of the family estates on the 24th of February, 1570, which proves the father was already dead by then. His descendants stayed on at the Castle until the end of the 1600s, when the line ended in heiresses. Burke's "Landed Gentry" notes a Bowen family at Hollymount in County Mayo, said to spring from this family, though the connection is not given.

Last Eustace heir refuses pension from La Touche near Harristown

Harristown · townland · Kildare

The last male representative of the Eustaces, who had formerly owned Harristown, lived as a poor old man in a cottage close to his ancestral home and is said to have refused a pension offered him by Mr. La Touche, citing his family's former dignity.

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The last male representative of the Eustaces, who had formerly owned Harristown, a poor old man living in a cottage close to his ancestral home, is said to have refused a pension offered him by Mr. La Touche, remarking with dignity that his “ family were more accustomed to grant than to receive such favours.”
But with the La Touches benevolence was an instinct. In the last quarter, especially the last decade, of the eighteenth century their wealth, their social influence, their public spirit, their integrity in business, and their unbounded charity, gave them a position which can hardly be exaggerated ; and the family may boast— here we quote from Lecky — “ that during many successive Governments, and in a period of the most lavish corruption, it possessed great Parliamentary influence, and yet passed through political life untitled and unstained.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 30

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Harristown, the last male representative of the Eustaces once lived in a cottage near his ancestral home. The Eustaces had formerly owned Harristown itself. He was a poor old man, and Mr. La Touche, whose family now held the estate, is said to have offered him a pension. He refused it, remarking with dignity that his "family were more accustomed to grant than to receive such favours." The La Touches, for their part, were known for benevolence. In the last quarter of the eighteenth century their wealth, social influence, and unbounded charity gave them a position which can hardly be exaggerated. Lecky wrote of them that during many successive governments, and in a period of the most lavish corruption, the family possessed great parliamentary influence and yet passed through political life untitled and unstained.

Legend of St. Brigid's mantle covering the Curragh

near The Curragh · locality · Kildare

A folktale tells of a king with ass's ears who asked St. Brigid to remove them in exchange for whatever ground her mantle would cover; her mantle spread until it covered the entire Curragh, which the king was obliged to grant her.

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if he would give her whatever ground her mantle would cover, and, av course, he said he would. She made him kneel down forninst her, and she just tipped the ears with her hands and they fell off on the minute. Well, when she put her mantle on the ground it kep spreadin’ and spreadin’ till it covered the Curragh, so he had to give her the whole Curragh.
The Chair of Kildare.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun

As the companion tells it

As you pass through the Curragh near Kildare, you're crossing ground that legend says St. Brigid won from a king with ass's ears. She offered to remove the ears in exchange for whatever ground her mantle would cover, and he agreed. She tipped the ears with her hands and they fell off, then her mantle kept spreading until it covered the whole Curragh, so he had to give it to her.

Queen Victoria reviews troops at the Curragh Camp, 1861

near Curragh Camp · population centre · Kildare · 1861

The Prince of Wales was stationed at the Curragh during 1861, and on 24 August of that year Queen Victoria and the Prince Consort reviewed the troops there.

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William Gorry’s account of this visit is interesting. These are his own words : — “ The Prince of Wales ascended the tower on the 16th September, 1861. I was on the top. The Prince took out a black scut of a pipe with a shank half the length of his Anger and a pouch. Two officers were along with himself, and they smoked and sung. The Prince asked me who was getting it built, and I said Sir Jarald. One of the officers gave me a shilling. The Prince did not give anything. The Prince forgot his silver match-box on the stone table, and I kept it and had it for a long time, but someone took it off me.” The Prince was stationed at the Curragli during the year 1861, and on August 24th of that year Queen Victoria and the Prince Consort reviewed the troops at the Camp.
On the inside of the tower, round the edge of the coping at the top of the stairs, is the following inscription: — “ In thankful remembrance of God’s mercies, many and great Built by Sir Gerald George Aylmer, Baronet, a.d. 1860”; and on the top landing: — “Lawrence and William Gorry Bros. Masons,” from which is separated the inscription S. J. N., and on the top step are the words “ assisted by,” followed by the names of the tenants on the steps of the stairs. I have now no doubt since a recent visit that S. J. N. was added later, as the letters are quite different in size and form from the rest of the inscriptions, and were obviously cut by a very inferior workman. At first I thought they might stand for “ Senior Junior Nati,” referring to the elder and younger

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 242

As the companion tells it

As you come near the Curragh Camp, this is where Queen Victoria and the Prince Consort came on 24 August 1861 to review the troops. The Prince of Wales had been stationed here during that year, and his parents came to see the soldiers. There is a tower nearby with a story from the same time. William Gorry was a mason, and he and his brother Lawrence built it. The inscription inside credits Sir Gerald George Aylmer, Baronet, who had it built in 1860, and the Gorry brothers as masons. On 16 September 1861 the Prince of Wales climbed the tower. Gorry was on the top. The Prince took out a black pipe with a short shank and a pouch. Two officers were with him, and they smoked and sang. The Prince asked Gorry who was having it built, and Gorry said Sir Gerald. One of the officers gave Gorry a shilling. The Prince gave nothing. He forgot his silver match-box on the stone table. Gorry kept it and had it for a long time, but someone took it from him. The inscriptions on the tower were cut into the coping round the top of the stairs and on the steps themselves. On the top landing are the names of Lawrence and William Gorry, and on the top step the words assisted by, followed by the names of the tenants. The letters S. J. N. were added later, cut by an inferior workman, different in size and form from the rest.

Rebel attack repulsed at Riverstown House, 1798

Riverstown · townland · Kildare · 1798

In 1798, during the rebellion, Riverstown House was attacked by the rebels, and John Bagot, then twenty years old, with the help of one other man, repulsed the attack while the ladies of the family shared in the anxieties of the period.

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The Rev. Walter Bagot was the youngest son of John Bagot, and his father left him only five hundred pounds, but that was able to produce much more at that time than it would now, and his will shows that he had interests in the properties of Riverstown, Lughill, Mount Rice, Monasterevan, and other lands which he left to his wife Jane, and his son John, and his daughters. He was appointed to the living of Fontstown in 1780, and, on becoming Rector of Monasterevan in 1807, was succeeded by his son, the Rev. John Bagot. In 1798, Riverstown House was attacked by the rebels, and John Bagot, who was then twenty years old, with the help of one other man, repulsed the attack. The ladies of the family, who were at Riverstown, fully shared in the anxieties of the period.
A handsome cup in the possession of the grand-daughters of the Rev. John Bagot bears this inscription : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 190

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stands Riverstown House, and in 1798, during the rebellion, it came under attack. A young man named John Bagot, just twenty years old, held the house with the help of one other man and repulsed the rebels. The ladies of the family were at Riverstown at the time and fully shared in the anxieties of that period. John was the son of the Reverend Walter Bagot, who had been appointed to the living of Fontstown in 1780 and later became Rector of Monasterevan in 1807. The family had connections to lands across Riverstown, Lughill, Mount Rice, and Monasterevan. A handsome cup survived among the granddaughters of the Reverend John Bagot, bearing an inscription that marks this episode.

The blacksmith's house and Father Moore's healing hat

Rathbride · townland · Kildare

A relic of Father Moore, his silk chimney-pot hat, is kept by a blacksmith named Forde in a thatched house on the Milltown Road near the well. Sufferers from headaches visit the well then proceed to Forde's house, recite prayers, and place the hat on their head for relief.

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side of the Milltown Road, a short distance away. This hat is used as a cure for head- aches ; the sufferer after visiting the Well proceeds to Forde’s house, and, after reciting some prayers, places the hat on the head, and obtains relief. The hat is kept on a shelf of the dresser, as it is said that it would crumble away if shut up in a box.
Some writers have stated that Father Moore’s Well was originally the Blessed Well of St. Brigid of Rathbride ; but this is a mistake, as St. Brigid’s Well is still pointed out a considerable distance away in the fields to the east.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 197

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, on the Milltown Road, a blacksmith named Forde keeps a relic in his thatched house. It is Father Moore's silk chimney-pot hat. People who suffer from headaches come to the well first, then walk to Forde's house. They say some prayers and place the hat on their head, and obtain relief. The hat sits on a shelf of the dresser, because it is said it would crumble away if shut up in a box. Some writers have claimed that Father Moore's Well was originally the Blessed Well of St. Brigid of Rathbride, but that is a mistake. St. Brigid's Well is still pointed out a considerable distance away, in the fields to the east.

Walter Reagh Driven from Ballenehorne

Ballinacor · townland · Wicklow · 1595

Captains Streete and Wyllis, aided by Ormond's forces, drove Walter Reagh from his house at Ballenehorne, killing his brother Gerald and others, whose heads were cut off and sent to the camp at Ballinacor.

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On the 21st of February news reached the Lord Deputy that Captains Streete and Wyllis, with their companies, assisted by some of the Earl of Ormond’s forces, had driven Walter Reagh from his house at Ballenehorne (or Ballenchorne), and that his brother Gerald, Daniel Reerton, one of his chief shot (musketeers), and another had been slain. Their heads were cut off and forwarded to the camp at Ballinacor ; this was the usual fate of any rebel that was taken prisoner, and of daily occurrence. After this the Lord Deputy returned to Dublin.3
During the month of March “ Walter Reagh made an attack on a neighbouring castle belonging to a gentleman of his enemies. But the gentleman was wary and vigilant, and in readiness against any attack of his enemies. When Walter and his people attacked the castle, the gentleman came to a bold and fierce combat with Walter, and they struck at each other furiously and inimically, and Walter was wounded in the leg. His people carried him off to the nearest mountain, and they placed him under cure in a subterranean cave, with the situation of which no three persons were acquainted. They left with him only one young physician of his own faithful people, who was wont to go every second day to the nearest woods to gather herbs. A conversation privately occurred between this man and a party of Walter’s enemies, and he having leagued with them, betrayed Walter and led a party to where he was, who bound him.” 4

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 78

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in February 1595, Captains Streete and Wyllis, with their companies and some of the Earl of Ormond's forces, drove Walter Reagh from his house at Ballenehorne. His brother Gerald was killed, along with Daniel Reerton, one of his chief musketeers, and another man. Their heads were cut off and sent to the camp at Ballinacor. This was the usual fate of any rebel taken prisoner, and of daily occurrence. After this, the Lord Deputy returned to Dublin. The following month, Walter Reagh attacked a neighbouring castle belonging to a gentleman of his enemies. The gentleman was wary and vigilant, and came to a bold and fierce combat with Walter. They struck at each other furiously, and Walter was wounded in the leg. His people carried him to the nearest mountain and placed him under cure in a subterranean cave, the location of which no three persons knew. They left with him only one young physician of his own faithful people, who went every second day to the nearest woods to gather herbs. A conversation privately occurred between this man and a party of Walter's enemies. He leagued with them, betrayed Walter, and led a party to where he was, who bound him.

Battle of Kilrush near Narraghmore

Kilrush · townland · Kildare · 1642

Government forces under the Marquis of Ormonde, returning from relieving castles near Athy, fought the Confederate Catholics at the Battle of Kilrush near Narraghmore. The battle, fought on 15th April 1642, resulted disastrously for the Confederates.

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Borlase in his “ History of the Irish .Rebellion 5,1 of 1641 describes how the Government forces under the Marquis of Ormonde proceeded from Dublin to Athy in the month of April, 1642, for the relief of the castles of Clogrennan, Carlow, Ballylynan, and several others in the district. On achieving this they commenced the return march to Dublin, taking with them as prisoners Captain Sir John Crosby, Bart., of Ballyfin ; Richard Grace, of Maryborough ; Gerald “ oge ”1 2 FitzGerald, of Morett ; and Sir John Bowen, of Ballyadams. Then followed the Battle of Kilrush, near Narraghmore, fought on the 15th April, 1642, which resulted so disastrously for the Confederate Catholics. Sir John’s crime was either high-treason or lukewarmness to the Puritan cause. However, he was tried at the King’s Bench for the former on the 31st January, 1643, to which he pleaded “ not guilty, and put himself upon the country.” On the 7th of February the jury acquitted him of the crime, and he was discharged.2
In the Memoirs of, and written by, the Royalist James Touchet, 3rd Earl of Castlehaven, who had his residence at Maddenstown, three miles to the south of Kildare, there is an amusing anecdote related concerning Sir John and his castle at Ballyadams. In 1643 during the time the Confederates were attacking the Grimes, or Graham, Castle of Ballylynan, a short distance off, Lord Castlehaven relates that : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 13

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, on the 15th of April 1642, the Battle of Kilrush was fought, near Narraghmore. Borlase, in his History of the Irish Rebellion of 1641, describes how the Government forces under the Marquis of Ormonde proceeded from Dublin to Athy in April 1642, for the relief of the castles of Clogrennan, Carlow, Ballylynan, and several others in the district. Having achieved this, they commenced the return march to Dublin, taking with them as prisoners Captain Sir John Crosby, Bart., of Ballyfin; Richard Grace, of Maryborough; Gerald oge FitzGerald, of Morett; and Sir John Bowen, of Ballyadams. Then followed the Battle of Kilrush, near Narraghmore, which resulted disastrously for the Confederate Catholics. After the battle, Sir John Crosby was charged with either high treason or lukewarmness to the Puritan cause. He was tried at the King's Bench for high treason on the 31st of January 1643, to which he pleaded not guilty and put himself upon the country. On the 7th of February the jury acquitted him, and he was discharged.

Blackhall Castle and its Sheela-na-gig

Blackhall · townland · Kildare

The townland of Blackhall, north of Narraghmore, contains one of the few remaining castles in the county still in good preservation. Built into the wall near the doorway is a Sheela-na-gig, a carved figure associated with belief in the Evil Eye, though not in its original position.

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The Townland of Blackhall lies to the north of Narraghmore, and contains one of the few remaining castles in the county still in good preservation. Built into the wall near the doorway is inserted one of those grotesquely carved nude female figures, associated with the belief in “ the Evil Eye,” known as a “ Sheelah-na-gig,” but it is not in its original position.
In 1576 there was a Robert Wellesley of Blackhall, who was left a legacy of £40 in the Will of Edward Wellesley of Kildare, above mentioned.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 157

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Blackhall, there's a castle, one of the few in the county still in good preservation. Built into the wall near the doorway is a Sheela-na-gig, one of those grotesquely carved nude female figures associated with the belief in the Evil Eye. It's not in its original position, though. In 1576 a Robert Wellesley of Blackhall was left a legacy of £40 in the will of Edward Wellesley of Kildare.

Discovery of buried silver coin hoard at Castledermot in 1912

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1912

On 26 March 1912, William Kinsella found a small earthenware jar full of 226 thin silver coins, dating from Edward VI to Charles I, buried at a depth of two feet in a field near Castledermot.

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On the 26th of March, 1912, Mr. William Kinsella, a shop-owner and farmer in Castledermot, while digging a drain in a field of his on the Townland of Abbeyland, a short distance outside the town to the south, turned up from about a depth of two feet a small earthenware jar with a handle, which on examination was discovered to be full of thin silver coins— half-crowns, shillings, and sixpences — extending from the reign of Edward VI to that of Charles I, dating (roughly speaking) from 1547 to 1647. Among them were several pieces of French and Spanish money ; in all they numbered 226 pieces, mostly in a very worn condition. The following list gives the numbers belonging to each reign

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 87

As the companion tells it

The town of Castledermot holds a buried secret from 1912. On the 26th of March that year, William Kinsella, a shop-owner and farmer, was digging a drain in his field on the Townland of Abbeyland, just south of the town. About two feet down, he turned up a small earthenware jar with a handle. It was full of thin silver coins, half-crowns, shillings, and sixpences, ranging from the reign of Edward VI to that of Charles I, roughly 1547 to 1647. Among them were several pieces of French and Spanish money. They numbered 226 in all, mostly in a very worn condition. Someone had buried that jar and never come back for it, leaving the silver waiting in the ground for over 250 years until a drain brought it up.

La Touche founds bank in Castle Street, Dublin

Castle Street · street · Dublin · 1690–1745

After the Boyne, Captain La Touche settled in Dublin and introduced weaving and fine linen production previously only done in France and the Low Countries. Emigres left their money with him for safekeeping, founding the La Touche Bank on Castle Street, one of the first banks in Ireland.

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Peace restored, William disbanded his army ; and Captain La Touche found himself in Dublin, less badly off than some of his brothers in arms, but learning that the gratitude of kings is not to be counted on. No one following the fortunes of Dublin as a city can fail to realize how much these Huguenots did for its prosperity. At once weaving, such as hitherto had only been done in France and the Low Countries, was started, and it is to the energy of David La Touche that Ireland owes to-day its famed poplin. Fine linen, too, was woven in the Liberties of Dublin, such as Cambrai alone had produced ; and for the next 150 years no scheme for the well-being of the populace, or for extending the commerce of the country, seemed complete without the association and financial aid of the members of the La Touche family. Soon Dublin became too cramped for the energies of the emigres. Many wished to wander further-a-field, and, before doing so, left their money and valuables in Captain La Touche’s hands, thus founding the Bank in Castle Street. The La Touche Bank1 was the first, or at least one of the first, banks in Ireland, and one which remained “ stable amid all changes, and was honoured where it was known.”
David La Touche lived respected and beloved till 1745, when he died kneeling at prayer in the Chapel Royal, which was near his residence in Castle Street. It is to his grandson, John (second son of David La Touche the second), that the establishing of this family in Kildare is owing.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 26

As the companion tells it

Castle Street in Dublin is where Captain La Touche founded what became one of the first banks in Ireland. After the Boyne, peace was restored and William disbanded his army. La Touche found himself in Dublin, less badly off than some of his brothers in arms, but learning that the gratitude of kings is not to be counted on. The Huguenots did much for the prosperity of the city. Weaving, such as hitherto had only been done in France and the Low Countries, was started, and it is to the energy of David La Touche that Ireland owes its famed poplin. Fine linen, too, was woven in the Liberties of Dublin, such as Cambrai alone had produced. For the next 150 years no scheme for the well-being of the populace or for extending the commerce of the country seemed complete without the association and financial aid of the La Touche family. Many emigres wished to wander further afield, and before doing so left their money and valuables in Captain La Touche's hands, founding the bank on Castle Street. The La Touche Bank was, in the words of the source, "stable amid all changes, and was honoured where it was known." David La Touche lived respected and beloved till 1745, when he died kneeling at prayer in the Chapel Royal, near his residence in Castle Street.

Legend of Liamhain and the Origin of Dunlavin's Name

Dunlavin · town · Wicklow

According to Standish Hayes O'Grady, Dunlavin took its name from Liamhain of the Fair Robe, daughter of the King of the Decies, who eloped with a servant, was pursued and put to death at a dun or fort in Leinster, subsequently named after her. The earthwork near the town known as 'Tornant Moat' may have been the scene of her death.

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The ancient form of the name Dunlavin was, according to Dr. P. W. Joyce, “Liamhain” (pronouned Lavnan), or “ Dun- Liamhna” (Dun Lavna).1 And, according to Mr. Standish Hayes O’Grady, this place took its name from Liamhain of the Fair Robe, the daughter of Dubthach mac Fergna, King of the Decies in Meath, during whose absence she eloped with a servant of his, was pursued, captured, and put to death at a dun or fort in Leinster, which was, in consequence, named after her, Dunlavin.2 The earthwork near the town, known as “ Tornant Moat,” may have been the scene of her death. There was another “Liamhain,” in the neighbourhood of which a great battle was fought, known as the fight of G-lenmama, a.d. 998, which Mr. G. H. Orpen has recently proved to be the mediaeval “ Leuan,” and modern “Lyons” in the County Kildare,3 previous authorities having in error identified it with Dunlavin.
There is no mention of this place in the Irish Annals. After the arrival of the Anglo-Normans at the end of the twelfth century Dunlavin, Bally more-Eustace, &c., became manors in the possession of the Archbishops of Dublin ; and about the year 1192, John, Earl of Moreton and Lord of Ireland, afterwards King of England, confirmed to John Comyn, Archbishop of Dublin, in right of his See, the following lands : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 135

As the companion tells it

Dunlavin takes its name, according to Standish Hayes O'Grady, from Liamhain of the Fair Robe. She was the daughter of Dubthach mac Fergna, King of the Decies in Meath. During her father's absence, she eloped with one of his servants. She was pursued, captured, and put to death at a dun or fort in Leinster. That fort was named after her, and the old form of the place name was Liamhain, pronounced Lavnan, or Dun-Liamhna, Dun Lavna. The earthwork near the town known as Tornant Moat may have been the scene of her death. There was another Liamhain, near which a great battle was fought, the fight of Glenmama, in 998. G. H. Orpen proved that this other place was the medieval Leuan and modern Lyons in County Kildare. Previous authorities had wrongly identified it with Dunlavin. There is no mention of Dunlavin in the Irish Annals. After the arrival of the Anglo-Normans at the end of the twelfth century, Dunlavin and Ballymore Eustace became manors in the possession of the Archbishops of Dublin. About 1192, John, Earl of Moreton and Lord of Ireland, later King of England, confirmed to John Comyn, Archbishop of Dublin, lands in right of his See.

Night Raid and Burning of Crumlin, 1595

Crumlin · townland · Dublin · 1595

Walter Reagh, his brother Gerald, and eighty followers made a night attack on the town of Crumlin, burning and plundering it and stripping lead from the church roof, with the flames visible from Dublin.

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On the 30th January Walter Reagh, his brother Gerald, and eighty followers made a night attack on the town of Crumlin, which then lay only two miles from St. James’s Gate, the then outermost of the Dublin gates. “ They burned and totally plundered that town, and took away as much as they were able to carry of the leaden roof of the church of the town ; and though the blaze and flames of the burning town were plainly visible in
1 Pages 11, 126, and 195 of Calendar of State Papers, Ire. (1588-92).

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 77

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, on the 30th of January 1595, Walter Reagh, his brother Gerald, and eighty followers made a night attack on Crumlin. They burned and plundered the town and stripped the lead from the church roof. The blaze was plainly visible from Dublin itself, just two miles away at St. James's Gate.

Old Harristown House destroyed by fire in 1891

Harristown · townland · Kildare · 1891

The old Harristown House, home of the La Touche family for sixty-two years, was destroyed by fire in 1891, as noted in the caption to an illustration of the ruined building.

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Old Harristown House, destroyed by fire in 1891.
For sixty-two years Mr. and Mrs. John La Touche made their home at Harristown (having in the early years of their married life given up their Dublin house), living in Kildare the usual life of county people of their station. He inherited even more than one man’s share of the narrow evangelistic views held by his Trench relatives, and saw his way in later life to leave the Church of Ireland, but his interest in the antiquities of Kildare was not great, as the readers of this Journal are aware. Not so Mrs. La Touche, who combined a deep love for Ireland, its institutions and antiquities, with a keen interest in all that could promote culture and intelligent observation. She looked on the Archseological Society of Kildare as a means to make the country less “ Boeotian ” if possible. Mr. John La Touche died in 1904 at the age of ninety, all his life having been spent in Ireland. On his death Mrs. La Touche left Kildare and resided in the neighbourhood of Dublin, where she died in 1906. Of their two daughters, the elder, Emily, married in 1865 Colonel the Hon. B. M. Ward, and died in 1867, leaving two children, Rose and Ernest ; while the younger, Rose, died unmarried in 1875. The only surviving member of this family is Mr. Percy La Touche, now of Harristown.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 29

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Harristown, the old house that stood here was destroyed by fire in 1891. For sixty-two years Mr. and Mrs. John La Touche had made their home at Harristown, having given up their Dublin house in the early years of their married life and living in Kildare as county people of their station did. John La Touche inherited more than one man's share of the narrow evangelistic views held by his Trench relatives, and in later life he left the Church of Ireland. His interest in the antiquities of Kildare was not great. Mrs. La Touche was different. She combined a deep love for Ireland, its institutions and antiquities, with a keen interest in all that could promote culture and intelligent observation. She looked on the Archaeological Society of Kildare as a means to make the country less, in her word, Boeotian. John La Touche died in 1904 at the age of ninety, all his life having been spent in Ireland. On his death Mrs. La Touche left Kildare and lived near Dublin, where she died in 1906. Of their two daughters, the elder, Emily, married Colonel the Hon. B. M. Ward in 1865 and died in 1867, leaving two children, Rose and Ernest. The younger daughter, Rose, died unmarried in 1875. The only surviving member of the family was Mr. Percy La Touche, then of Harristown.

Rev. John Bagot saves burning boat on Grand Canal

near Grand Canal · canal · Dublin · 1802

A cup commemorates the Rev. John Bagot's humane, judicious and intrepid exertions in saving, at hazard of his life, a boat on the Grand Canal laden with a valuable cargo when on fire in every part, presented by the Company of Undertakers of the Grand Canal in 1802.

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As a memorial of their admiration of his Humane Judicious and intrepid Exertions In saving at the hazard of his Life from imminent destruction A Boat on the Grand Canal Laden with a Valuable Cargo when on Fire in every part By Order of the Court of Directors
Willm Greene Secy

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 190

As the companion tells it

Up ahead the road meets the Grand Canal. In 1802 the canal company presented a cup to the Reverend John Bagot for saving a boat laden with a valuable cargo when it was on fire in every part. They called his actions humane, judicious and intrepid, done at the hazard of his life.

St. Bridget's Day custom of 'Miss Biddy' churn-dash figure

near Millbrook · sub-townland · Kildare

On St. Bridget's Day local youths would dress a churn-dash like a lady called 'Miss Biddy' and creep up to houses to place her at the door; households were expected to welcome her though she never actually entered.

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On St. Bridget’s Day the chaps would always dress up a churndash like a lady, and she was called “ Miss Biddy,” and they would creep up quiet to the houses and stick her in at the door, I remember the first time I seen her the life was put across in me ; it was one night when I was a rale little chap, and I was sittin’ at the fire thrickin’ with the ashes, and me grandmother turned round to the door and said, “ Ye’re welcome, Miss Biddy, won’t you come and sit down at the fire?” and when I looked around, there I seen “ Miss Biddy.” I think if she had come in I’d have died entirely with the fright. You should always welcome her when she came, but she never came in.
St. Brigid’s Mantle.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 192

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Millbrook, there was a St. Bridget's Day custom the local youths kept up. They would dress a churn-dash like a lady and call her Miss Biddy. They would creep up quiet to the houses and stick her in at the door. One man remembered the first time he saw her as a small boy, sitting at the fire playing with the ashes. His grandmother turned round to the door and said, "Ye're welcome, Miss Biddy, won't you come and sit down at the fire?" When he looked around, there stood Miss Biddy. He said if she had come in he would have died entirely with the fright. You should always welcome her when she came, but she never came in.

Sticks, crutches and crosses left at Father Moore's Well

Rathbride · townland · Kildare

At Father Moore's Well the sticks and crutches left stuck in the soft ground by cured pilgrims, and wooden crosses brought back by grateful visitors, attest to the well's reputed curative powers.

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Father John Moore lived with his mother in a thatched house a short distance beyond the Well, of which nothing but the walls is now standing. He had a remarkable gift in effecting cures of various ailments, and before his death, in 1826, he blessed this Well in order that those performing stations at it might still be cured after he had passed away, hence it became known as “ Father Moore’s Well ” ; and the sticks and crutches stuck in the soft ground on the Well’s margin, left behind by those who had no further need of them, fully attest its curative powers ; the wooden crosses placed at the Well, in like manner, were brought by those who, in gratitude for their cures, returned to the Well for that purpose.
An old man of the name of Richard Ryan, who holds the farm on which the Well is situated, related to me in 1892 a very remarkable story in connexion with Father Moore, the pith of which was that so great had his fame in healing become that the local gentry reported him to his bishop as being a public scandal. The Bishop accordingly paid Father Moore a visit, accompanied by Father Brennan, P.P. of Kildare, and other clergy ; and on meeting him told him that he must cease living the life he did, as his work was being attributed to supernatural means. Father Moore respectfully, but firmly, replied that he would never, while life lasted, stop relieving to the best of his power those who suffered, and he appealed to the Bishop to know if he did not think that he was doing good. He then ordered that two candles

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 195

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is Father Moore's Well. Father John Moore lived with his mother in a thatched house a short distance beyond the well, of which nothing but the walls now stand. He had a remarkable gift in effecting cures of various ailments, and before his death in 1826 he blessed this well, so that those performing stations at it might still be cured after he had passed away. That is how it became known as Father Moore's Well. The sticks and crutches stuck in the soft ground on the well's margin, left behind by those who had no further need of them, fully attest its curative powers. The wooden crosses placed there were brought by those who, in gratitude for their cures, returned to the well for that purpose. An old man named Richard Ryan, who held the farm on which the well is situated, told a remarkable story in 1892. So great had Father Moore's fame in healing become that the local gentry reported him to his bishop as a public scandal. The bishop paid him a visit, accompanied by Father Brennan, parish priest of Kildare, and other clergy, and told him he must cease living the life he did, as his work was being attributed to supernatural means. Father Moore respectfully but firmly replied that he would never, while life lasted, stop relieving to the best of his power those who suffered, and asked the bishop if he did not think he was doing good. He then ordered that two candles

The Ancient Mace of Naas Corporation and civic ceremony

Naas · town · Kildare · 1730–1861

On State occasions the sovereign of Naas, wearing a scarlet cloak and three-cornered hat, was preceded by the sergeant-at-mace bearing the corporation mace and escorted by portreeves and masters of fraternities in ceremonial procession. The silver mace, lost for generations, was eventually identified in the National Museum, Dublin, having been purchased in 1861.

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On page 268 of the first volume of the Co. Kildare Archaeological Journal, under the heading “ Ancient Naas,” will be found some references to the ancient town mace. On State occasions the sovereign of Naas, in a scarlet cloak and three-cornered hat, was preceded by the sergeant-at-mace bearing the corporation mace. On “ Station ” days he was escorted by the portreeves, the common council in “ seemly gownes,” and the masters of fraternities, wearing “ cloakes and liatts,” and walking in procession.1 On Sunday the masters of fraternities, led by the master of guilds, followed by the master of the harnmer-men, and the other masters, and accompanied by six freemen and four halberts, escorted the sovereign to and from church, walking in procession. In 1731 the mace and regalia were in the charge of “ one Wall, an inn-keeper.” In 1829 sergeant James Stewart was sergeant-at-mace and billet-master.
I can find no other information concerning the mace in my ancestors’ notes and letters. For generations it had not been heard of, but now, thanks to Mr. E. C. R. Armstrong, of the National Museum, Dublin, it has been identified, and can be seen in the museum. This mace, which is entered as “unidentified” in the register of the Royal Irish Academy under the date November 27th, 1861, is of silver, late seventeenth century, of Irish make, and weighs 2^1b. avoirdupois. Its length is 19 inches, the diameter of the head being 4 inches, and of the stem 1 inch. It was purchased from John Turkington, of Mary Street, Dublin, for £8. For over fifty years it had lain unidentified, until Mr. Armstrong recognized the arms of Naas on the foot, and wrote to me on the subject, sending the appended photos.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 248

As the companion tells it

The town of Naas in Kildare once had a corporation whose ceremonies were full of colour and order. On State occasions the sovereign of Naas wore a scarlet cloak and a three-cornered hat, and was preceded by the sergeant-at-mace bearing the corporation mace. On Station days he was escorted by the portreeves, the common council in seemly gowns, and the masters of fraternities, wearing cloaks and hats, walking in procession. On Sundays the masters of fraternities, led by the master of guilds, followed by the master of the hammer-men and the other masters, accompanied by six freemen and four halberts, escorted the sovereign to and from church. In 1731 the mace and regalia were in the charge of one Wall, an inn-keeper. In 1829 sergeant James Stewart was sergeant-at-mace and billet-master. After that, for generations, the mace was not heard of. It was eventually identified in the National Museum in Dublin. It had been entered as unidentified in the register of the Royal Irish Academy under the date November 27, 1861. It is of silver, late seventeenth century, of Irish make, and weighs 2 pounds avoirdupois. Its length is 19 inches, the diameter of the head 4 inches, and of the stem 1 inch. It was purchased from John Turkington of Mary Street, Dublin, for 8 pounds. For over fifty years it had lain unidentified, until Mr. E. C. R. Armstrong of the National Museum recognised the arms of Naas on the foot.

Treasure Trove Dug from an Old Cross at Clonygowan

Clonygowan · townland · Offaly · 1665

In 1665 great sums of money and treasure were reportedly discovered and dug up from the ruins of an old cross near the town of Clonygowan by Donnagh O'Farrall, a smith, and other local men. William Jans petitioned the Lord Lieutenant as informer for his share, leading to an inquiry and accusations of collusion by local Justices of the Peace.

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“ That where your petitioner is credibly by divers persons informed that there hath been of late discovered and taken from the ruines of an old crosse in the King’s County, in one of the mannor towns of Lewis [O’Dempsey] Lord Viscount Clanmalira, great summes of money and treasure by one Donnagh O’Farrall, a smith, and divers other country swayne, in or about and neere the town of Clonygowan, which properly appertained to his Majestie, as your petitioner supposeth and hopeth to make good. And forasmuch as your petitioner expecteth the benefit and proportion of a discoverer (i.e. informer), and to the end that he may make a full and perfect discovery of the same, may it therefore please your Excellencie to arme him with a warrant or order delivered to his Majestie’s Justices of the Peace, High and Petty constables of the said county, to apprehend the said parties and every of them, and them securely to keep in safe custody until they doe bring in the treasure so by them found and digged up, that your petitioner may have his proportion of the same and the rest imployed to his Majestie’s use and revenue or treasury. And hee shall pray,” etc.
The result of this petition was that John Baldwyn and Charles Lyons, Justices of the Peace for the King’s County, were ordered on the 26th of June to hold a sworn inquiry into the truth of the report.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 116

As the companion tells it

Close to Clonygowan, in 1665, a great sum of money and treasure was dug from the ruins of an old cross. The land was one of the manor towns of Lord Viscount Clanmalira, Lewis O'Dempsey. The men who found it were Donnagh O'Farrall, a smith, and several other countrymen. A man named William Jans heard of the discovery and petitioned the Lord Lieutenant. He said the treasure properly belonged to His Majesty, and he hoped to make that good. He called himself a discoverer, an informer, and he wanted his proportion of what was found. He asked to be armed with a warrant directed to the Justices of the Peace, the High and Petty constables of the county, to apprehend the men who dug up the treasure and keep them in safe custody until they brought it all in. Then he might have his share, and the rest would go to the King's use and revenue. On the 26th of June, John Baldwyn and Charles Lyons, Justices of the Peace for the King's County, were ordered to hold a sworn inquiry into the truth of the report.

Art MacMurrough's attack and pillage of New Ross (1394)

New Ross · townland · Wexford · 1394

In 1394, incensed by the forfeiture of his wife Elizabeth Calfe's lands, Art MacMurrough led an army against the English and attacked Ros-mic-Triuin, now New Ross in County Wexford, pillaging the town and carrying away gold, silver, and hostages.

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The result of forfeiting his wife’s possessions was to further embitter Art MacMurrough against the English, whom he constantly harassed, and in 1394 he led an army against them, and attacked Ros-mic-Triuin, now New Ross, in the County Wexford, which he pillaged, “ and carried away from it gold, silver, and hostages.”
In the same year the Annalists add that “ at last he went to the King’s house (i.e. made his submission), at the solicitation of the English and Irish of Leinster ; but he was detained a prisoner, on account of the complaint of the Lord Justice, i.e. (James 3rd) Earl of Ormond, He was afterwards liberated, but O’Brien, O’More, and Shane O’Nolan,2 were kept in custody after him.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 150

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in 1394, Art MacMurrough led an army against the English and attacked Ros-mic-Triuin, now New Ross. He was embittered by the forfeiture of his wife Elizabeth Calfe's lands, and he pillaged the town, carrying away "gold, silver, and hostages." That same year he made his submission at the King's house, at the solicitation of the English and Irish of Leinster. But he was detained as a prisoner on account of the complaint of the Lord Justice, James, the 3rd Earl of Ormond. He was afterwards liberated, though O'Brien, O'More, and Shane O'Nolan were kept in custody after him.

Collapse of the Franciscan Abbey wall at Castledermot, 1912

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1912

On the morning of 10 January 1912, a large portion of the south-west wall of the Franciscan Abbey at Castledermot collapsed, causing a breach four perches long. A baker named Laurence Murphy and a bullock narrowly escaped death; the Board of Works had previously attempted repairs but could not secure the weakened section.

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Between nine and ten o’clock on the morning of the 10th January, 1912, a large portion of the south-west wall of the Franciscan Abbey collapsed, causing a great breach, from top to bottom, four perches (Irish) in length. For some months past the wall had shown signs of getting out of plumb, and cracks were beginning to appear in it. As the building is a National Monument,
the Board of Works carried out some repairs to it a couple of summers ago, but they were unable to secure the portion which has now fallen. What weakened the wall here was what is supposed to have been a passage in the thickness of it. The collapse fortunately did no damage, though a bullock, and a baker named Laurence Murphy, had very narrow escapes from losing their lives.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 33

As the companion tells it

Castledermot, in Kildare, is a town the road passes through or near. On the morning of 10 January 1912, a large portion of the south-west wall of the Franciscan Abbey collapsed, leaving a breach four perches long from top to bottom. For months the wall had shown signs of getting out of plumb, and cracks were beginning to appear. The building is a National Monument, and the Board of Works had carried out repairs a couple of summers before, but they could not secure the section that fell. What weakened the wall was thought to have been a passage within its thickness. The collapse did no damage, though a bullock and a baker named Laurence Murphy had very narrow escapes from losing their lives.

Widespread poverty observed on the road from Dublin to Kilcullen Bridge

Kilcullen Bridge · bridge · Kildare · 1732

John Loveday, touring in 1732, described great numbers of poor people along the road out of Dublin toward Kilcullen Bridge, noting that even boys in Dublin went barefoot and that the meaner sort of travellers often carried their shoes rather than wearing them.

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“ Friday , 2. — From Dublin to the Naas in ye County of Kildare, 12 miles ; to Kilcullen Bridge, at ye Crown, 5 miles. This was a very fine made way of considerable breadth, only one Turnpike,1 and that demanded but one half-penny a horse. But just out of Dublin — the metropolis (and ’tis so for a great way on) — are cottages ; they call them cabbins [French — Cabane, a cottage, a thatched house ; and ye word occurs in other languages, v. Junius ; nay, it occurs in Lhuyd’s Irish-English Dictionary thus — * Caban and cabain, a cottage, a cabbin ’]. Great numbers of poor along ye road. Even in Dublin ye poorer boys go without shoes and stockings, and as we came into ye countrey, men, women, all in general of the meaner sort, either had none, or carryed ’em on their shoulders if they were travelling ye road. Mr. Bourk’s Park2 3 on the right hand before
1 The turnpike lodges at Black Church and the Red Cow may still be

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun

As the companion tells it

A bridge at Kilcullen, in County Kildare. In 1732 John Loveday travelled the road from Dublin to this point, 12 miles to Naas and 5 more to the bridge, at the Crown. He found a fine, broad road with only 1 turnpike, and that demanded 1 half-penny a horse. But just out of Dublin he saw cottages the people called cabbins, a word found in Lhuyd's Irish-English dictionary as caban and cabain, meaning a cottage, a thatched house. There were great numbers of poor along the road. Even in Dublin, poorer boys went without shoes and stockings. As Loveday came into the country, men and women, all in general of the meaner sort, either had none, or, in his words, "carryed 'em on their shoulders" if they were travelling the road. Before reaching the bridge, he passed Mister Bourk's Park.

Agmondesham Vesey rebuilds Lucan House in Grecian style

near Lucan · town · Dublin · 1750–1776

Agmondesham Vesey enlarged Lucan House in 1750 but later demolished it in 1776 to build the present structure in a Grecian style, described by Mrs Carter as his 'correct Grecian state'. The traveller Arthur Young visited Lucan and praised the owner's taste in laying out the grounds.

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Mr. Vesey ’s return for this borough marked the beginning of a political career of over forty years ; his next seat was at Kinsale, for which he was elected in 1765, and which he represented continuously till 1783. He held the office of Accountant- General in Ireland, a sinecure of £800 per annum, which he was anxious to dispose of for a capital sum, doubtless to enable him to indulge his hobby of architecture — a taste which led him to enlarge Lucan House in 1750. This structure fell short of his ideals, so he demolished it in 1776 to make way for the present building, the style adopted being in what Mrs. Carter calls “Mr. Vesey’s correct Grecian state.” In the spring of 1776 he was appointed to the Privy Council— an honour which he had for some time solicited, and for which he is thus recommended by Earl Harcourt : — “ Mr. Vesey has been long in Parliament. He is a gentleman very much esteemed, very nearly related to the Speaker, and has given a support to my

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 236

As the companion tells it

Coming up near Lucan. Agmondesham Vesey enlarged Lucan House here in 1750, but that structure fell short of his ideals, so he demolished it in 1776 to build the present one in a Grecian style. The writer Mrs. Carter called it "Mr. Vesey's correct Grecian state." His taste for architecture was funded partly by his office as Accountant-General in Ireland, a sinecure worth £800 per annum, which he was anxious to dispose of for a capital sum. Vesey sat in Parliament for over forty years, first for this borough and then for Kinsale from 1765 to 1783. In the spring of 1776 he was appointed to the Privy Council, an honour he had long solicited. Earl Harcourt recommended him for it, noting he had been long in Parliament, was very much esteemed, very nearly related to the Speaker, and had given support to the administration.

Ancient granite cross and forgotten burial ground at Lipstown

Lipstown · townland · Kildare

In a field at Lipstown, three-quarters of a mile east of Narraghmore village, an ancient ringed granite cross stands atop high ground on an unenclosed plot that is never tilled, believed to be the site of a long-forgotten burial ground where skulls and bones have been found.

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Lipstown, mentioned above, is a townland lying to the northeast of Narraghmore. In one of the fields some way in from the public road, three-quarters of a mile to the east of Narraghmore village, an ancient granite cross stands on the summit of the high ground in a square unenclosed plot, measuring about 50 yards each way, which is never tilled like the rest of the field. This plot is probably the site of a long-forgotten burial-ground, as skulls and bones have been turned up close by.
1 County Kildare Chancery Inquisition, No. 50 of Charles I.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 155

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in Lipstown, an ancient granite cross stands on the summit of high ground in a field, three-quarters of a mile east of Narraghmore village. It sits in a square unenclosed plot about 50 yards each way that is never tilled like the rest of the field. Skulls and bones have been turned up close by, and the plot is probably the site of a long-forgotten burial ground.

Belief that women crossing horses brings bad luck

near Millbrook · sub-townland · Kildare

Tom Daly recalls a local belief that it was unlucky for a woman to cross in front of a pair of ploughing horses, illustrated by an incident where his mother crossing the headland caused the horses to go mad until she crossed back.

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I remember when it used to be thought onlucky for a woman to cross in front of a pair of horses. There was one day me uncle Jim was ploughing, and me mother came out with the dinner, and when she went along the headland the horses was cornin’ up the furrow ; well, they went mad, and me uncle Jim could get no good of them until he med her cross back again, and then they were all right. The women knew, and they would always stop themselves when they were going along the headland if the horses were cornin’ up the furrow.
“ Miss Biddy.”

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 192

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Millbrook, Tom Daly recalled a local belief that it was unlucky for a woman to cross in front of a pair of horses. One day his uncle Jim was ploughing and his mother came out with the dinner. When she went along the headland the horses were coming up the furrow, and they went mad. His uncle Jim could get no good of them until he made her cross back again, and then they were all right. The women knew, and they would always stop themselves when they were going along the headland if the horses were coming up the furrow.

Bullocks trapped in Ballyadams Castle's tower, 1910

Ballyadams · townland · Laois · 1910

In 1910 two bullocks belonging to the proprietor Dermot Hurley took possession of the old part of Ballyadams Castle, one climbing the narrow circular staircase to the very summit near the battlements, requiring ropes and a butcher on standby to bring it down safely.

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In 1910 the old portion of the castle was taken forcible possession of by a couple of Mr. Dermot Hurley, the present proprietor’s, bullocks. They mounted the narrow circular staircase, and while one of them entered the room on the first landing, the other climbed the stairs to the very summit, and got out beside the roof (a corrugated iron one) at the battlements, and it was with the greatest difficulty that, after being secured with ropes, it was safely got down the stairs again. As there was every likelihood of its leaping over the battlements, a butcher from Atliy was present, but fortunately his services were not required.
To the north of the castle, beyond the field in which an old cherry orchard stood, there is a well called Tober-na-Goppal, or “ the Well of the Horses.” Another old Irish place-name is Boolia-duck (“ the milking-place ”), which is the name of a field at the junction of the roads near the gateway leading into the castle field ; neither of these names is marked on the six-inch Ordnance Survey maps.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in Ballyadams, a strange thing happened in 1910. The old portion of the castle was taken, as the record says, by forcible possession of a couple of Mr. Dermot Hurley's bullocks. Hurley was the proprietor at the time. The two animals mounted the narrow circular staircase. One of them entered the room on the first landing. The other kept going, climbing the stairs to the very summit, and got out beside the roof at the battlements. The roof was corrugated iron. It was with the greatest difficulty that the animal was safely got down the stairs again, after being secured with ropes. There was every likelihood of its leaping over the battlements, so a butcher from Atliy was present. Fortunately his services were not required. To the north of the castle, beyond the field where an old cherry orchard stood, there is a well called Tober-na-Goppal, the Well of the Horses. Another old name is Boolia-duck, the milking-place, which is the name of a field at the junction of the roads near the gateway leading into the castle field. Neither of these names is marked on the six-inch Ordnance Survey maps.

Clonmore Castle rendered indefensible during 1641 rebellion

Clonmore · townland · Carlow · 1641–1650

During the rebellion of 1641 Clonmore Castle changed hands more than once, and was eventually rendered indefensible by the Cromwellian leaders Colonels Hewson and Reynolds in 1650.

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During the rebellion of 1641 Clonmore, like so many other castles in Leinster, changed hands more than once ; and was eventually, it is said, rendered indefensible by the Cromwellian leaders, Colonels Hewson and Reynolds, in 1650.
From the possession of the Ormonde family, the Manor and Castle of Clonmore passed to the Howard family, probably about 1697, when Ralph Howard, of Dublin, acquired from the Duke of Ormonde the estate of North Arklow, in which Shelton is situated. His descendant, the Right Hon. Ralph Howard, p.c., was in 1776 created Baron of Clonmore, of Clonmore Castle, in the County Carlow, and in 1785 Viscount Wicklow ; in 1798 his son Robert was created Earl of Wicklow.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 95

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Clonmore stands the castle that gave this place its name. During the rebellion of 1641, Clonmore Castle changed hands more than once, like many castles across Leinster. By 1650, the Cromwellian leaders Colonels Hewson and Reynolds rendered it indefensible. The manor and castle stayed with the Ormonde family until about 1697, when Ralph Howard of Dublin acquired them from the Duke of Ormonde as part of the North Arklow estate, in which Shelton is situated. His descendant, the Right Honourable Ralph Howard, was created Baron of Clonmore in 1776 and Viscount Wicklow in 1785. In 1798 his son Robert was created Earl of Wicklow.

Dr. Patrick Weston Joyce buried at Glasnevin

Glasnevin · townland · Dublin · 1914

Patrick Weston Joyce, historian and folklorist, died on 7th January 1914 aged 87 and was buried at Glasnevin. He had been a fluent Irish speaker, a Member of the Royal Irish Academy, and President of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland from 1906 to 1908.

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Dr. Joyce died on the 7th January, 1914, aged 87 years, and was laid to rest in Glasnevin. It is satisfactory to learn that he left no work unfinished, though the third volume of his valuable “Origin of Irish Names of Places” was published only a few weeks before his death, forty-four years having elapsed since the appearance of the first volume. “ The work of his life,” as he called it, was the production in two volumes of “A Social History of Ancient Ireland,” a work dealing minutely with the religion, mode of life, manners, and customs of the Milesian race ; this magnificent production will always remain a standard work.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 251

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Glasnevin, the historian and folklorist Patrick Weston Joyce was laid to rest in 1914. He died on the 7th of January that year, aged 87, and was buried here in Glasnevin. He left no work unfinished. The third volume of his "Origin of Irish Names of Places" came out only weeks before his death, 44 years after the first volume appeared. He called "A Social History of Ancient Ireland," his two-volume study of the religion, manners, and customs of the Milesian race, "the work of his life."

Earl of Kildare brings first cannon to Balrath in 1488

Balrath · townland · Westmeath · 1488

The Annals of the Four Masters record that in 1488 the Earl of Kildare led a plundering army into Kinel-Fiachach and demolished the Castle of Bile-ratha (Balrath) after bringing ordnance to it, marking the first mention of cannon used in Ireland.

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A plundering army was led by the Earl of Kildare [Gerald, the 8th Earl] into Kinel-Fiachach-mic-Neill (Kineleagh, now the Barony of Moycashel, Co. Westmeath), and he demolished the Castle of Bile-ratha (now Balrath) upon the sons of Murtough Mageoghegan, after having brought ordnance to it.
The next references to cannon are in 1498, 1514, 1516, 1524, after which mention of them occurs more frequently.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 33

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here once stood the Castle of Bile-ratha, now Balrath. In 1488 the Earl of Kildare, Gerald the 8th, led a plundering army into Kinel-Fiachach and brought ordnance against the castle. He demolished it upon the sons of Murtough Mageoghegan. This is the first mention of cannon in Ireland. The next references do not appear until 1498.

Lettice Digby's defence of Geashill Castle

Geashill · town · Offaly · 1642

Lettice Digby, Baroness Offaly, held out at her castle of Geashill against the O'Dempsies until relieved by Sir Richard Grenville in October 1642. She later retired to England and died in 1658.

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Sir Robert married in 1600 Lettice, daughter and heiress of G-erald FitzGerald (eldest son of Gerald, 11th Earl of Kildare), and in her right acquired an estate of some 30,000 acres, comprising the entire barony of Geashill, King’s County. A question being raised as to whether the ancient Barony of Offaly, enjoyed by her grandfather, descended to her, or passed with the Earldom of Kildare, King James I, by patent 29th July, 1620, created her Baroness Offaly for life, with remainder to the male heir of the FitzGeralds, and at the same time granted a peerage to her eldest son, under the title of Baron Digby, with remainder to his younger brothers. This gallant lady defended her castle of Geashill against the O’Dempsies, holding out with the greatest spirit until relieved by Sir Richard Grenville in October, 1642. She then retired to her husband’s estates in Warwickshire, and died 1 December, 1658, having survived him forty years.
Sir Robert Digby died 24 May, 1618, and was buried at Coleshill, Warwickshire. He had issue, seven sons and three daughters, viz. : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 80

As the companion tells it

The town of Geashill was once the seat of a woman who would not give it up. In 1600, Sir Robert Digby married Lettice, daughter and heiress of Gerald FitzGerald, eldest son of Gerald, 11th Earl of Kildare. Through her, he acquired an estate of some 30,000 acres, comprising the entire barony. A question arose whether the ancient Barony of Offaly descended to her or passed with the Earldom of Kildare. King James I settled it by patent on 29 July 1620, creating her Baroness Offaly for life, and granting a peerage to her eldest son as Baron Digby. This gallant lady defended her castle against the O'Dempsies, holding out with the greatest spirit until Sir Richard Grenville relieved her in October 1642. She then retired to her husband's estates in Warwickshire. Sir Robert had died on 24 May 1618 and was buried at Coleshill. Lettice survived him forty years, dying on 1 December 1658.

Ormonde's relief march to Athy and capture of prisoners

Athy · town · Kildare · 1642

In April 1642 government forces under Ormonde marched from Dublin to Athy to relieve the castles of Clogrennan, Carlow, Ballylynan and others, taking several Confederate gentlemen prisoner on the return march, including Sir John Bowen of Ballyadams.

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Borlase in his “ History of the Irish .Rebellion 5,1 of 1641 describes how the Government forces under the Marquis of Ormonde proceeded from Dublin to Athy in the month of April, 1642, for the relief of the castles of Clogrennan, Carlow, Ballylynan, and several others in the district. On achieving this they commenced the return march to Dublin, taking with them as prisoners Captain Sir John Crosby, Bart., of Ballyfin ; Richard Grace, of Maryborough ; Gerald “ oge ”1 2 FitzGerald, of Morett ; and Sir John Bowen, of Ballyadams. Then followed the Battle of Kilrush, near Narraghmore, fought on the 15th April, 1642, which resulted so disastrously for the Confederate Catholics. Sir John’s crime was either high-treason or lukewarmness to the Puritan cause. However, he was tried at the King’s Bench for the former on the 31st January, 1643, to which he pleaded “ not guilty, and put himself upon the country.” On the 7th of February the jury acquitted him of the crime, and he was discharged.2
In the Memoirs of, and written by, the Royalist James Touchet, 3rd Earl of Castlehaven, who had his residence at Maddenstown, three miles to the south of Kildare, there is an amusing anecdote related concerning Sir John and his castle at Ballyadams. In 1643 during the time the Confederates were attacking the Grimes, or Graham, Castle of Ballylynan, a short distance off, Lord Castlehaven relates that : —

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 13

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Athy now. In April 1642 this town stood at the centre of a relief march that Borlase recorded in his History of the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Government forces under the Marquis of Ormonde set out from Dublin to Athy to relieve the castles of Clogrennan, Carlow, Ballylynan, and several others in the district. Having achieved that, they began the return march to Dublin, carrying prisoners with them: Captain Sir John Crosby, Bart., of Ballyfin; Richard Grace, of Maryborough; Gerald "oge" FitzGerald, of Morett; and Sir John Bowen, of Ballyadams. Then came the Battle of Kilrush, near Narraghmore, fought on the 15th of April 1642, which proved disastrous for the Confederate Catholics. Sir John's alleged crime was either high treason or lukewarmness toward the Puritan cause. He was tried at the King's Bench for high treason on the 31st of January 1643, pleading "not guilty, and put himself upon the country." On the 7th of February the jury acquitted him, and he was discharged.

Robert Brooke's failed cotton manufacture at Prosperous

Prosperous · town · Kildare · 1780

The village of Prosperous, on the townland of Curryhills, owes its origin to Robert Brooke who started a cotton manufacture there in 1780. Despite large expenditure and a Parliamentary grant of £2,500, the industry failed a few years later and was never revived.

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The village of Prosperous is situated on the townland of Curryhills ; it owes its origin to a Mr. Robert Brooke, who started a cotton manufacture here in 1780, the success of which did not come up to the name he in anticipation chose for the place, as after spending large sums of money on it, in addition to a Parliamentary grant of £2,500, the industry failed a few years later, and the undertaking was never revived.1
W. FitzG.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 200

As the companion tells it

The town of Prosperous sits on the townland of Curryhills. It owes its origin to Robert Brooke, who started a cotton manufacture there in 1780. The name he chose for the place turned out to be wishful. After spending large sums of money, on top of a Parliamentary grant of 2,500 pounds, the industry failed a few years later. The undertaking was never revived.

Baltinglass named after Prince Cuglas who vanished into a cave

Baltinglass · town · Wicklow

According to old Irish manuscript tales, Cuglas, a Prince of Leinster in the first century, disappeared while hunting into a cave which was ever afterwards called Belach Conglais, now known as Baltinglass, and he was never heard of again.

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O’Curry tells us that in old Irish MSS. there are a whole class of tales devoted to recounting the adventures of those who lived in earth-houses or artificial caves. One of them is a story relating to Cuglas, a Prince of Leinster in the first century, who one day while hunting disappeared into a cave, called ever since after him Belach Conglais (now Baltinglass), and was never heard of afterwards. One of these earth-houses was explored during a visit of the Koyal Society of Antiquaries to Killala Cathedral, having been discovered when digging a grave. It so happened that the entrance was made into the circular chamber
1 Germania, chap. xvi.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 46

As the companion tells it

As you pass through the town of Baltinglass, the name goes back to an old Irish tale. Cuglas, a Prince of Leinster in the first century, vanished one day while hunting into a cave. It was called Belach Conglais after him ever since, and that name became Baltinglass. He was never heard of again. O'Curry tells us the old Irish manuscripts hold a whole class of such tales about those who lived in earth-houses or artificial caves.

Battle of Bealach Mughna at Ballaghmoon where the bishop-king of Cashel fell

Ballaghmoon · townland · Kildare · 903

Cearbhall mac Muireagain fought in the battle of Bealach Mughna (Ballaghmoon, Co. Kildare) in 903, in which Cormac mac Cuileannain, the bishop-king of Cashel, was killed.

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The “ Ri Laighean ” lived at Nas na Riogh (“ Naas of the Kings j| until the death of Cearbhall mac Muireagain, the 40th king, in a.d. 904.1 Cearbhall was one of the most famous of the north Leinster kings. He fought in the battle of Bealach Mughna, a.d. 903 (Ballaghmoon, Co. Kildare), in which fell Cormac mac Cuileannain, the bishop-king of Cashel. Cearbhall and eight other kings of Leinster were buried in Cill Chorbain.1 The ecclesiastical centre of the district was Kildare.
The following brief analysis of the list of the kings of Leinster “ after the Faith,” given in Mac Firbhisigh’s “ Leabhar Geinealach,” p. 426, in the R.I.A. copy, in the Leabhar Bhaile an Mhota, folio 54, a, 26, and in the Leabhar Laighean, folio 39, b, 1, forms a short survey of the history of the clans of north-east Leinster from about the year a.d. 450 until a.d. 1171. The three lists are in substantial agreement with each other ; that in the Leabhar Laighean, which is the oldest, is the scantiest in its details, and the most conservative in its method of spelling names. The list in the Leabhar Geinealach is the fullest, and gives the pedigree of each king for five or six generations. All three lists give the number of years which each king reigned, and those in the Leabhar Laighean and Leabhar Bhaile an Mhota usually agree with one another, but it is not always possible to reconcile them with the dates given by the Annalists.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 229

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in 903, the battle of Bealach Mughna was fought. Cearbhall mac Muireagain, one of the most famous of the north Leinster kings, fought in it. He was the 40th king of Leinster and lived at Nas na Riogh, Naas of the Kings. In this battle fell Cormac mac Cuileannain, the bishop-king of Cashel. A bishop who was also a king, killed in fighting in County Kildare. The lists of the kings of Leinster, kept in the Leabhar Geinealach, the Leabhar Bhaile an Mhota, and the Leabhar Laighean, record the reigns and pedigrees of these kings from about 450 until 1171. The Leabhar Laighean is the oldest of the three and the most conservative in its spelling of names. The Leabhar Geinealach is the fullest, giving the pedigree of each king for five or six generations. All three give the number of years each king reigned, though those years do not always match the dates given by the annalists. Cearbhall himself died in 904. He and eight other kings of Leinster were buried in Cill Chorbain. The ecclesiastical centre of this district was Kildare.

Capture of Ballinacor Castle, 1595

Ballinacor · townland · Wicklow · 1595

O'Byrne's Castle of Ballinacor was taken by surprise on 16 January 1595, though its owner and garrison escaped; the following day the Lord Deputy proclaimed Fiagh mac Hugh O'Byrne and Walter Reagh traitors.

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Two years later, in January, 1595, Walter Reagh’s father-inlaw, Fiagh mac Hugh O’Byrne, “the firebrand of the mountains,” and Donnell Spaniagh (i.e. of Spain) Kavanagh, of Clonmullen, were in open revolt against the English Government. Undeterred by his grandfather’s fate fifty-eight years before, Walter Reagh joined heart and soul in the rebellion. On the 16th of the month O’Byrne’s Castle of Ballinacor was taken by surprise, but its owner and garrison made their escape. On the following day the Lord Deputy, Sir Walter Russell, publicly proclaimed Fiagh mac Hugh O’Byrne, his wife, Risse O’Toole, Walter Reagh, and their adherents, traitors, after which he returned to Dublin.3
On the 30th January Walter Reagh, his brother Gerald, and eighty followers made a night attack on the town of Crumlin, which then lay only two miles from St. James’s Gate, the then outermost of the Dublin gates. “ They burned and totally plundered that town, and took away as much as they were able to carry of the leaden roof of the church of the town ; and though the blaze and flames of the burning town were plainly visible in

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 77

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stood O'Byrne's Castle of Ballinacor. In January 1595, Fiagh mac Hugh O'Byrne, called "the firebrand of the mountains," and Donnell Spaniagh Kavanagh of Clonmullen were in open revolt against the English government. Walter Reagh, O'Byrne's son-in-law, joined the rebellion, undeterred by his grandfather's fate 58 years before. On 16 January, Ballinacor Castle was taken by surprise, but its owner and garrison escaped. The following day, the Lord Deputy, Sir Walter Russell, publicly proclaimed Fiagh mac Hugh O'Byrne, his wife Risse O'Toole, Walter Reagh, and their adherents traitors, after which he returned to Dublin. On 30 January, Walter Reagh, his brother Gerald, and 80 followers made a night attack on the town of Crumlin, then only 2 miles from St. James's Gate, the outermost of the Dublin gates. They burned and totally plundered that town, and took away the leaden roof of the church.

Castletown House, Mrs Conolly's grand mansion at Celbridge

Castletown · street · Kildare · 1725–1732

Just outside Kildroghan (Celbridge) stood Castletown, Mrs Conolly's house built in 1725 of local marble, described as the grandest house seen in Ireland, with 18 windows, curving stone cloisters, kitchen offices and stables.

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“ Tuesday, 27. — From Brea to Kilcullen, 10 miles; to the Naas, 5 ; to Kildroghan4 at ye White Hart, 7 miles. Mr. Carter’s5 seat at Kilcullen is a large square house of stone, new and handsome ; ye Liffy runs by it ; ’tis admired for its situation, according to ye grand way in Ireland, they call it Castle Martin , ye general affectation to call their houses Castles6 ( v . Swift xvi., 408.) Two miles beyond ye Naas, we turned out of ye Dublin road, passing by Bishop’s Court, Lord Duncannon’s.7 Just out of Kildroghan is much ye grandest house we have seen in Ireland — Castletown, Mrs. Conolly’s,8 built in 1725, of a bastard marble dug up about 15 miles hence, but being unpolished it looks like a fair white stone ; this very lofty and deep house, taking up a great deal of ground, stands upon arches, has no less than 18 windows in front, too many either for beauty or strength ; on each side wind in a circular manner stone cloisters supported on columns of ye Ionic order ; butting ye extremities of ye cloisters are built of a darker stone, and something higher than ye cloisters, on one side ye kitchen and offices, on t’other ye stabling. The rooms are large and wellproportioned, and as well furnished, though ye inside be not
1 The Rev. William Nesbitt, Rector of Athy, died in 1740. He belonged to the family of Tubberdaly, in the King’s Co., now represented by Edward J. Beaumont Nesbitt, d.l.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 108

As the companion tells it

This is Castletown, Mrs. Conolly's house, standing just outside Kildroghan, or Celbridge as it is known. A traveller in 1725 called it much the grandest house he had seen in Ireland. It was built in that year of a bastard marble dug up about 15 miles hence, but being unpolished it looks like a fair white stone. It is a very lofty and deep house, taking up a great deal of ground, and stands upon arches. It has no less than 18 windows in front, which the traveller thought too many either for beauty or strength. On each side, stone cloisters wind in a circular manner, supported on columns of the Ionic order. Butting the extremities of the cloisters, and built of a darker stone and somewhat higher, are the kitchen and offices on one side and the stabling on the other. The rooms are large and well-proportioned, and as well furnished, though the inside be not finished.

Clonmore Castle held amid Carlow revolt, 1600

Clonmore · townland · Carlow · 1600

In January 1600, County Carlow was described as largely in revolt, with only a handful of castles held for the Crown, including Clonmore, kept by the Earl of Ormond at his own expense, while surrounding lands were laid waste.

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In January, 1600, the County Carlow is stated to be : — for the most part in revolt ; only the Castle of Carlow and Laughlin, being kept by wards for her Majesty, do stand ; and likewise the Castles of Arklow, Ravilly, Clonmore, Tully, Cloughgreny (Clogrenan), and Shroughe Boe (Straboe, Barony of Rathvilly), belonging to the Earl of Ormonde and kept at his lordship’s charge, are held still, but all the lands are laid waste about them.6
1 Rot. Cane. Hib. Cal., p. 223b. 2 In the County Wicklow.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 94

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Clonmore, a castle stood in January 1600, when most of County Carlow was in revolt. Only Carlow and Laughlin were held by wards for her Majesty. Clonmore belonged to the Earl of Ormond, kept at his lordship's own charge, along with Arklow, Ravilly, Tully, Cloughgreny, and Shroughe Boe. But all the lands about them were laid waste.

Father Moore's Well at Rathbride

Rathbride · townland · Kildare

The excursion party visited Father Moore's Well at Rathbride, a Blessed Well remarkable for the number of sticks and crutches left stuck in the soft ground around it as testimony to its curative powers.

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After spending a considerable time on the Hill, the party rejoined the cars and commenced the return journey, via Milltown, to Father Moore’s Well at Rathbride. A stop was made to visit this Blessed Well, which is remarkable for the number of sticks and crutches stuck in the soft ground around in testimony of its curative powers.
Continuing the homeward journey, a short drive brought the party again on to the Curragh, and “the Wart Stone” (a socketed cross-base) was passed on the left, and further on a boulder, known as “Finn mac Coole’s Stone,” on the right; and then Kildare was reached in time for the party to visit St. Brigid’s Cathedral, before the hour appointed for tea at Miss Talbot’s hotel had arrived.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 205

As the companion tells it

Close to Rathbride, there is a place called Father Moore's Well. An excursion party came here once, arriving by car from the Hill, travelling by way of Milltown. They stopped to visit this Blessed Well. What made it remarkable was the ground all around it, soft and stuck full of sticks and crutches. People who believed in the well's curative powers had left those things behind, each one a kind of testimony. The party spent their time looking at the well and all those abandoned sticks and crutches before they moved on, continuing their homeward journey across the Curragh.

John La Touche contests 1767 Dublin City election against Marquis of Kildare

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1767

In 1767 John La Touche of Harristown sought to enter the Irish Parliament as member for the City of Dublin, contesting against the Marquis of Kildare. Though he was defeated, Dublin merchants presented him with a gold snuff-box in recognition of his spirited contest.

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So disappointed were the merchants of Dublin that the best man in their opinion had failed to win, that a beautiful gold snuff-box was presented to the defeated candidate, inscribed : “ In honourable recognition of the spirited contest maintained by him as candidate at the last election, on the free and independent interest of the citizens of Dublin, this box is offered to John La Touche of Harristown.” It now remains a cherished heirloom in the family.
In the Irish Parliament this same John La Touche sat as a Knight of the Shire for his county. His popularity was as great as his influence, for he owned the Borough of Harristown,1 and his two sons were also members of the same Parliament, sitting successively for Harristown Borough, the elder son sitting later in 1790-1797 as member for Newtownards, County Down.

Internet Archive journalofcountyk07coun, Chapter 27

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dublin, the city was the stage for a notable contest in 1767. John La Touche of Harristown stood for election to the Irish Parliament as member for the City of Dublin, challenging the Marquis of Kildare. He was defeated, but the merchants of Dublin thought him the best man and presented him with a gold snuff-box, inscribed in honourable recognition of his spirited contest on the free and independent interest of the citizens of Dublin. That box remains a cherished heirloom in the family. La Touche did sit in the Irish Parliament as a Knight of the Shire for his county, and his popularity was as great as his influence. He owned the Borough of Harristown, and his two sons were also members of the same Parliament, sitting successively for Harristown Borough, the elder son later sitting from 1790 to 1797 as member for Newtownards, County Down.

Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (vol. 7)

The stories, best first

1798 Massacre of United Irishmen at Dunlavin Fair Green

Sir John Bowen's defiant stand at Ballyadams Castle, 1643

United Irishmen Held Prisoner in Dunlavin Market-house

New Grange (Brugh-na-Boinne) described as palace and tomb

The Bishop's visit to Father Moore over reports of scandal

The cross that returned itself after failed removal to Kilcullen

Walter FitzGerald executed at Tyburn following Silken Thomas rebellion

Battle of Glenn Mama fought beside Liamhain, AD 1000

Death of Art MacMurrough by poison at New Ross (1417)

Father Moore's Well at Rathbride and its curative reputation

Folk belief linking the Bowen tomb effigies to the Mullaghmast massacre

Lord Leonard Grey created Viscount Graney, later executed

The Old Castle of Harristown and its Wonders

Wretched cave-dwellers of Omey Island, Connemara

Capture of Walter Reagh, April 1595

Destruction of the Bowen tomb effigies during a Whitefeet funeral, 1832

The Eccentric Collector Harrington of Timolin

Bishop Conlaed devoured by wolves near Liamhain

Capture and Death of 'Black Top' near Athy

Demolition of Graney Priory ruins and destruction of the 'Greek stone', c.1830-1875

Hell Fire Club Orgies at Grangemellon Mansion

John Bowen 'Shane-a-feeka' and tales of horror at Ballyadams

Last Eustace heir refuses pension from La Touche near Harristown

Legend of St. Brigid's mantle covering the Curragh

Queen Victoria reviews troops at the Curragh Camp, 1861

Rebel attack repulsed at Riverstown House, 1798

The blacksmith's house and Father Moore's healing hat

Walter Reagh Driven from Ballenehorne

Battle of Kilrush near Narraghmore

Blackhall Castle and its Sheela-na-gig

Discovery of buried silver coin hoard at Castledermot in 1912

La Touche founds bank in Castle Street, Dublin

Legend of Liamhain and the Origin of Dunlavin's Name

Night Raid and Burning of Crumlin, 1595

Old Harristown House destroyed by fire in 1891

Rev. John Bagot saves burning boat on Grand Canal

St. Bridget's Day custom of 'Miss Biddy' churn-dash figure

Sticks, crutches and crosses left at Father Moore's Well

The Ancient Mace of Naas Corporation and civic ceremony

Treasure Trove Dug from an Old Cross at Clonygowan

Art MacMurrough's attack and pillage of New Ross (1394)

Collapse of the Franciscan Abbey wall at Castledermot, 1912

Widespread poverty observed on the road from Dublin to Kilcullen Bridge

Agmondesham Vesey rebuilds Lucan House in Grecian style

Ancient granite cross and forgotten burial ground at Lipstown

Belief that women crossing horses brings bad luck

Bullocks trapped in Ballyadams Castle's tower, 1910

Clonmore Castle rendered indefensible during 1641 rebellion

Dr. Patrick Weston Joyce buried at Glasnevin

Earl of Kildare brings first cannon to Balrath in 1488

Lettice Digby's defence of Geashill Castle

Ormonde's relief march to Athy and capture of prisoners

Robert Brooke's failed cotton manufacture at Prosperous

Baltinglass named after Prince Cuglas who vanished into a cave

Battle of Bealach Mughna at Ballaghmoon where the bishop-king of Cashel fell

Capture of Ballinacor Castle, 1595

Castletown House, Mrs Conolly's grand mansion at Celbridge

Clonmore Castle held amid Carlow revolt, 1600

Father Moore's Well at Rathbride

John La Touche contests 1767 Dublin City election against Marquis of Kildare