Name: Kerry
Author: Charles Paston Crane (1857–)

Fort del Ore: the 1580 Smerwick massacre

Dunanore · enclosure · Kerry · 1580

In the winter of 1580, 600–800 Spanish and Italian adventurers held the small fort of Dún an Óir at Smerwick against Lord Grey de Wilton. After a three days' fight and bombardment by English ships including the Revenge, the garrison capitulated and were put to the sword.

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(4) Any of the country folk will point out the place, and show the old earthworks, still visible, and the causeway connecting the miniature rock fortress with the mainland. An observer cannot fail to be struck with the smallness of the fort and its surroundings, and when he calls to mind the fact that from 600 to 800 Spanish and Italian adventurers held it against Lord Grey de Wilton in 1580, he cannot help wondering at the temerity of the strangers who thus ventured to defy disciplined and well-armed forces in such an untenable position. Every one knows the story, how in the winter weather of 1580 the English soldiers, with whom was Edmund Spenser the poet, and Walter Raleigh, then a young captain in the Queen's service, dreaming of glory to come, marched from Dingle to reduce this so-called fortress. How Admiral Winter, sailing round to co-operate, with the little Hevenge and other ships, assisted in the bombardment, and how, after a three days' fight, the garrison capitulated and were put to the sword and thrown into the sea.
It is a tale of rough and savage warfare, which sounds strange to us in modern days. Whether we accept the story that Lord Grey broke his faith with the enemy, or the version which makes the unconditional surrender of the invaders an excuse for the savage butchery, we must admit that the killing of the garrison has left

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 87

Pedlar's Lake and the murdered traveller near Annascaul

Anascaul · town · Kerry

A precipice near Connor Pass holds the Pedlar's Lake, named after a wanderer returning home to Annascaul disguised as a pedlar who was robbed and thrown into the lough by two brothers. His body was later found and buried at Killiney, and his sweetheart followed him to the grave a year later.

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ruins bring back the memory of the crime. One m. from the top of the pass a great precipice, a short way from the road on the R., marks the place where lies the " Pedlar's Lake," so called from the following story. A wanderer who had left his home and the girl he loved, in Auniscaul, returned one dark winter evening disguised as a pedlar. Endeavouring to make his way over the mountains from Mahanaboe to Auniscaul, he fell in with two brothers, who decoyed him to the vicinity of this dark place, and having robbed him they threw him into the lough. The robbers then went over the hills to Auniscaul and showed part of their spoil unwittingly to the girl to whom the poor ^' pedlar " was engaged. She recognised a broken sixpence as a love token, and inquiries being made the " pedlar's " body was found and buried at Killiney, and his poor sweetheart followed him to the grave a year later. The ruffians who murdered the "pedlar" escaped.
From the bend of the road at the '' Pedlar's Lake " a good view is obtained of the Cloghane Valley, which extends across from Connor Hill to Brandon, and through which flows the Owenmore or Cloghane River. At the head of the glen the following loughs can be seen : — The " Black Lake," Lough Gal or the White Lake, and Lough Clogharee, whilst far in the recess of Brandon Mountain can be seen Lough Cruttia. A few yards on the Dingle side of the " Pedlar's Lake " gorge a little trickling stream flows down the side b£ the rock. The water is said to be the best in Kerry. The road on to Kilmore (^2^ m.), at the foot of the Connor Hill, is a gradual descent, steeper in some places than others. A bit of plantation at

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 87

As the companion tells it

As you come through Anascaul, the road is not far from a precipice that holds a lake with a dark name. Pedlar's Lake. The story goes that a wanderer had left his home and the girl he loved in Annascaul. One dark winter evening he came back, disguised as a pedlar. He was trying to make his way over the mountains from Mahanaboe to Annascaul when he fell in with two brothers. They led him to the vicinity of this dark place, robbed him, and threw him into the lough. The robbers then went over the hills to Annascaul. There they showed part of their spoil to the girl the pedlar was engaged to, not knowing who she was. She recognised a broken sixpence as a love token. Inquiries were made. The pedlar's body was found and buried at Killiney. His sweetheart followed him to the grave a year later. The men who murdered him escaped. The ruins near the precipice bring back the memory of the crime. From the bend of the road at Pedlar's Lake you can see the Cloghane Valley, stretching from Connor Hill to Brandon, with the Owenmore or Cloghane River flowing through it. At the head of the glen are the Black Lake, Lough Gal or the White Lake, and Lough Clogharee. Far in the recess of Brandon Mountain is Lough Cruttia. A few yards on the Dingle side of the gorge, a trickling stream flows down the rock. The water is said to be the best in Kerry.

The Priest's Leap legend of penal-law escape

Priest's Leap · pass · Kerry

A mountain pass between Kenmare and Bantry takes its name from a legend in which a priest saying forbidden Mass during the penal-law era leapt on horseback in a single bound from the pass to Bantry to escape approaching English soldiers. Prints of the horse's hoofs and the mark of the priest's whip in rock near Bantry Town are still pointed out as proof.

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The " Priest's Leap '' takes its name from the legend which tells how in the days when the penal laws were in full swing a priest was saying the forbidden mass on the top of this pass. Suddenly the English soldiers appeared coming up the mountain road from Kenmare, and the priest seeing them, leapt into the saddle and with one bound landed in Bantry. The truth of the story can be proved by the prints of the horse's hoofs in a rock near Bantry Town, and even the mark of the priest's whip, which fell from his hand as he alighted, is still pointed out. After enjoying the view from this pass, it would be well to make for the highest point of the hills on the R., distant i m., from which a good view is obtained of Glengariffe Harbour, with its islands and old signal tower, and the woods clothing the shores of this inlet lying beneath.
These mountains form the boundary line between Cork and Kerry, and a delightful return journey might be made by keeping the ridge of the boundary line as far as the "Tunnel" and descending by the main road which leads from Glengariffe to Kenmare. But if the cycle has been left at the hospitable farmer's house at the foot of the " Priest's Leap " this will not be practicable. By whichever route the return is made there will be ample reward for the traveller in the exquisite scenes which meet him at every turn of the road. This expedition to the Priest's Leap may be counted as one of the most, among the many, attractive expeditions to be made from various centres in Kerry.

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 55

Ballyheige Castle and the Golden Lyon silver robbery

Ballyheige · townland · Kerry · 1730–1731

A Danish East Indiaman, the Golden Lyon, carrying silver bullion, was wrecked at Ballyheige Bay in October 1730. The treasure was stored in Ballyheige Castle under guard, but in June 1731 over two hundred armed men attacked the tower, killed Danish sailors, and stole the bullion.

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It would be too long a story to tell in the pages of this little Guide, and a bare outline of the occurrence is all that can be given. A Danish East Indiaman, called the Golden Lyotiy laden with twelve chests of silver bullion and coin, on a voyage from Copenhagen to Tranquebar, was driven out of her course by stress of weather, and on 28th October 1730 was run ashore by her captain on the N. side of Ballyheige Bay. John Heitman, her captain, communicated with his authorities in Copenhagen, and pending their instructions stored his chests of bullion, which had been saved through the exertions of Mr Thomas Crosbie and his dependants, in the cellar of a tower in Ballyheige Castle. A guard of Danish sailors watched over the treasure, and the officers and all the shipwrecked crew received every kindness and hospitality from Thomas Crosbie and Lady Margaret Crosbie, his wife. For eight months, apparently, viz., from October to June, the treasure was unmolested, and the captain and crew well treated. But apparently the temptation of the silver had led to a great conspiracy being formed amongst the people of the surrounding country, and on the night of 21st June 1731 a party of over two hundred men, with blackened faces and armed, attacked the tower. Two or three of the Danes were killed and the treasure was stolen. The puzzle as to where it was taken and who was to blame went on through many weary months. Some of the treasure was subsequently recovered, but there does not appear to have been any satisfactory punishment of the guilty parties of this raid.
(4) Ballyheige to Ballingarry and Kerry

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 85

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Ballyheige, a Danish East Indiaman called the Golden Lyon was wrecked on the north side of Ballyheige Bay on 28 October 1730. She was carrying twelve chests of silver bullion and coin on a voyage from Copenhagen to Tranquebar, driven off course by bad weather. Her captain, John Heitman, had the chests stored in the cellar of a tower in Ballyheige Castle, where a guard of Danish sailors watched over the treasure. Thomas Crosbie and his wife Lady Margaret Crosbie gave every kindness to the shipwrecked crew. For eight months the treasure sat unmolested. But on the night of 21 June 1731, a party of over two hundred armed men with blackened faces attacked the tower. Two or three of the Danes were killed and the treasure was stolen. Some of the silver was subsequently recovered, but there does not appear to have been any satisfactory punishment of the guilty parties.

Glenbeg cove as legendary landing place of Partholan

Glenbeg · townland · Cork

Legend identifies the little cove of Glenbeg, also called Rath Strand, as the place where Partholan, an early invader of Ireland, landed his warriors a thousand years before the Milesians. The cove is still called the 'inlet of the boat's crew.'

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Miskish (1272 ft.), the latter being just a little W. of a line drawn over Kilcatherine Point to the white houses which mark the neighbourhood of Eyries, on the S. side of Ken mare River. It was in the little cove of Glenbeg, or as it is called sometimes '* Rath Strand," that Partholan, one of the very early invaders of Ireland, landed when the world was young — the " Annals of the Four Masters" puts the age of the world at 2520 years — and that means that Partholan came with his warriors 1000 years before the Milesians. However true all this may be, legend points still to the spot where the first reconnoitring boat's crew put to shore ; and the cove goes by the name of the " inlet of the boat's crew " to this day.
Legend further states that a party of Partholan's men went along the shores to find a landing-place for the rest of the host, and from the next cove to Glenbeg they waved branches of trees to their comrades to signify that a suitable place had been found, and this cove is called in Celtic to the present time the *^cove of the branches." But each one must gather the legends of this interesting county for himself, and it will greatly add to the pleasure of a tour in Kerry. Continuing along the road for a mile, the rock and islet-studded inlet of '* West Cove " is seen, near which place it is said a fight occurred between Cromwell's soldiers and the Irish. A road turning to the L. leads by a gradual ascent to the Chapel of Coad, which can be seen on the hill slope to the L. This little ruin is dedicated to St Crohane, who is the patron saint of this particular locality. There is nothing very interesting about the ruin, which is on the same plan as most of the early

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 64

Legend of Curoi, Blanaid and Caherconree fortress

Caherconree · enclosure · Kerry

A heroic-age legend tells how Curoi of Daire built a great fortress atop Caherconree at Blanaid's urging. Blanaid betrayed Curoi by pouring milk into the Finglas to signal Cuchullin, who slew Curoi and carried her off; the river still runs white in flood to recall the tale.

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Then Blanaid persuaded Curoi of Daire to build a fortress on the summit of the mountain of Caherconree which should surpass all the kingly forts of Erin, and to send his men throughout the land to find the greatest stones wherewith to build it. The guard being dispersed abroad, and Curoi alone and defenceless, Blanaid obtained numerous pails of milk and poured them into the stream. Cuchullin, seeing the waters running white and remembering the signal agreed upon, rushed in and slew Curoi of Daire and carried off the faithless Blanaid to Ulster to the palace of Emania. But Curoi's bard pursued the pair and found them on the promontory of Ken Barra with Connor MacNessa and a great company of knights and warriors. The bard watched his opportunity, and seeing Blanaid approach to the edge of the cliffs he came behind her and caught her in his arms and sprang with her into the wild sea. Such is the story of Curoi of Daire and beautiful faithless Blanaid, and the Finglas River to this day flows white in flood to bring the legend to mind.
On the R. of the railway as it ascends the side of the mountain may be seen far away Brandon

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 86

Darrynane, home of O'Connell's grandson and smugglers' harbour

Darrynane · electoral division · Kerry

Darrynane is described as the home of Daniel O'Connell, Esq., the grandson of the Liberator. The gardens contain caves where smugglers hid treasure, and a nearby harbour was used to land cargoes of claret and silk from France.

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(i) Darrynane, The road from the summit of this pass opens out view upon view as the traveller descends the southern side, till about 2 m. from the highest point a branch road to the R. leads down a sharp incline, amidst a mass of hollies, birches, and oaks, to Darrynane, the home of Daniel O'Connell, Esq,, the grandson of the great Liberator. The house, sheltered by the wooded slopes on the N., stands on a slight rise overlooking the sandhills and the bay, a pleasant situation, which combines wood and mountain and sea with the ever-engrossing interest which pertains to a spot where most things will grow— bamboos. New Zealand flax. Arum lilies, and many varieties of shrubs, which less favoured places can only keep alive with difficulty, flourish here. In the gardens, which seem to mingle with the surrounding woods, is shown the caves where the smugglers in old days hid their treasure. A mile away to the W., along the road which leads past the entrance gates of Darrynane, is the sheltered little harbour where many a good cargo of claret and silk was landed from France, and where the smugglers' craft were able to play hide-and-seek with the revenue cutters.
" Abbey Island " — an island now no longer, being connected with the mainland by silted sand —

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 63

As the companion tells it

As you come down the southern side of this pass, the road opens out view upon view, and a branch road drops down through hollies, birches and oaks to Darrynane. This is the home of Daniel O'Connell, Esq., the grandson of the great Liberator. The house stands on a slight rise overlooking the sandhills and the bay, sheltered by wooded slopes. It is a place where most things will grow. Bamboos, New Zealand flax, arum lilies and many varieties of shrubs flourish here that less favoured places can only keep alive with difficulty. In the gardens, which seem to mingle with the surrounding woods, the caves are shown where the smugglers in old days hid their treasure. About a mile to the west, along the road that leads past the entrance gates, is a sheltered little harbour where many a good cargo of claret and silk was landed from France, and where the smugglers' craft were able to play hide-and-seek with the revenue cutters.

Colonel David Crosbie's siege at Ballingarry, 1641

Ballingarry · castle · Kerry · 1641–1644

Colonel David Crosbie fortified the promontory at Ballingarry and built houses for Protestant refugees during the 1641 rebellion. Despite a 1644 assurance from the Confederate Catholic army, his lands were plundered and Ballingarry was taken when one James Kelly treacherously lowered the drawbridge.

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Head. To the N. of Ballyheige Castle, and distant about 4 m., are the remains of Ballingarry, where Colonel David Crosbie made his brave stand in 1 64 1 . Driven out of Gortnaskehy, a house which stood somewhere near the present Ardfert Abbey, he retired to Ballingarry, being supplied with provisions by Lord Inchiquin from the opposite coast of Clare. He fortified the little promontory and built houses for the Protestant refugees, and made covered ways to the fortress from the drawbridge. In 1644 the confederate Catholic army for Kerry gave him an assurance that he should enjoy and possess all ** his lands, rents, and other possesssions '' which he held at the time of the cessation of arms, agreed on in 1643 between the Marquis of Ormonde and the confederates. But, alas ! for treachery. In a few months after the signing of this agreement Colonel Crosbie's lands were plundered, Gortnaskehy given to the flames and destroyed, and the siege of Ballingarry resumed with vigour. It was taken by the confederates only when one James Kelly treacherously let down the drawbridge and admitted the foe. Colonel Crosbie's life was spared through the devotion of his niece, Katharine Macgillycuddy of the Reeks. This young lady was a refugee in Ballingarry, but her brother. Colonel Macgillycuddy, and one of her cousins, were serving with the confederate army near Tralee. It was through the intervention of these gentlemen that Colonel Crosbie was spared. He lived for some years after his exciting adventures, and was made Governor of Kerry by Lord Inchiquin. Subsequently his estates were restored to him by Oliver Cromwell, and in 1658 he died full of years and honours, and was buried at Ardfert.
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 85

Siege of Tralee Castle by Confederate Irish forces

Tralee · townland · Kerry · 1641–1642

In 1641 the confederate Irish entered Tralee and hanged the gaol-keeper after making him drunk and dragging him to execution. Sir Thomas Harris held the castle for six months against siege, but the garrison, destitute of provisions, was obliged to capitulate; Harris died just before the surrender. The old castle was finally demolished in 1826 by Sir Edward Denny to make way for town improvements.

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going to visit his house at Loghercannon, thought it better to fly to Ardfert than run the risk of falling into the hands of the enemy. The MS. which relates all this says that the tenantry of Sir Edward Denny, to the number of 400, were plundered, and fled for safety to the castle, and the garrison " grumbled " greatly at the addition to their number. There was treachery to contend against, and hunger and thirst and disease, and yet all attempts to induce Sir Thomas Harris to surrender proved futile. He had been entrusted with the defence of the castle by Sir Edward Denny, and "he would not surrender it to any rebel." And so for six months the siege of Tralee was carried on with vigour, and the defence maintained with great determination. But at last the defenders, being destitute of provisions and ammunition, were obliged to give up their arms on being granted quarter and "a suit of clothes to each person." Sir Thomas Harris was spared the humiliation of a surrender. Worn out by sickness and hardship, and the cares of his command, he died just before the capitulation. During the siege this hero wrote several times to Lord Kerry, asking for aid, and offering to cut his way out to join forces at Ardfert to give battle to the confederates. But Lord Kerry apparently deemed discretion the better part of valour, and leaving Harris and the Tralee garrison to their fate, fled to England for safety. Such is the short record of the siege of the old castles of Tralee.
In 1826, the Sir Edward Denny of the day finally demolished the building to make way for the improvement of the town. Ballybeggan Castle held out till 1643, when it was relieved by

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 85

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Tralee, in 1641, the confederate Irish entered Tralee and hanged the gaol-keeper after making him drunk and dragging him to execution. Sir Thomas Harris held the castle for six months against siege. He had been entrusted with the defence of the castle by Sir Edward Denny, and he would not surrender it to any rebel. The tenantry of Sir Edward Denny, to the number of 400, were plundered, and fled for safety to the castle, and the garrison grumbled greatly at the addition to their number. There was treachery to contend against, and hunger and thirst and disease, and yet all attempts to induce Sir Thomas Harris to surrender proved futile. So for six months the siege of Tralee was carried on with vigour, and the defence maintained with great determination. But at last the defenders, being destitute of provisions and ammunition, were obliged to give up their arms on being granted quarter and a suit of clothes to each person. Sir Thomas Harris was spared the humiliation of a surrender. Worn out by sickness and hardship, and the cares of his command, he died just before the capitulation. During the siege he wrote several times to Lord Kerry, asking for aid, and offering to cut his way out to join forces at Ardfert to give battle to the confederates. But Lord Kerry apparently deemed discretion the better part of valour, and leaving Harris and the Tralee garrison to their fate, fled to England for safety. In 1826, the Sir Edward Denny of the day finally demolished the building to make way for the improvement of the town.

Sir Nicholas Browne of Molahiffe and the O'Sullivan property

Molahiffe · parish · Kerry

Queen Elizabeth wished Sir Nicholas Browne of Molahiffe to marry Eileen MacCarthy, but Florence MacCarthy eloped with her instead. Browne then married the jilted O'Sullivan lady and through her gained much of the O'Sullivan property.

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The MacCarthy Rieog, or Reagh, mentioned in this old worn inscription, had a son called Florence MacCarthy, who was engaged to the daughter of Sir Owen O' Sullivan More. Queen Elizabeth was anxious that Sir Nicholas Browne of Molahiffe should marry Eileen MacCarthy, the daughter and heiress of the MacCarthy More, Earl of Glencar. But Florence MacCarthy upset all her calculations by running away with this lady and breaking his troth with the fair O' Sullivan. They were married, so says an old writer, "in an old
los

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 53

Tempul na Cuillah prehistoric standing stones near Waterville

Waterville · townland · Kerry

Four huge upright stones or 'gallauns' stand on a slight rise near Waterville, said to belong to the age of the Druids or the mystic age of the heroes of Erin. In later days the site marked a place where Mass was said, and the stones are known as 'Tempul na Cuillah.'

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III. Water ville to Darrynane, Leaving Waterville by the road which runs due S. through the village, and crossing the bridge (| m.) over the Currane River, a cross-road is met on the L. hand side, a mile from the village. This road leads along by the shores of Lough Currane to end in the hills at the head of the lake, whence a footway leads over the heights to Staigue Fort. Continuing the journey along the main coast route for a distance of 300 yards, four huge stones are seen standing upright on a slight rise on the L. hand side. This group of prehistoric monuments, which are said to have belonged to the age of the Druids, or to the mystic age of the heroes of Erin, in later days marked the place where Mass was said. These four " gallauns " or upright stones go by the name of ** Tempul na Cuillah." Half-a-mile farther on, the road bends to the R. and crosses a bridge over a httle mountain streamlet, the Finglass, issuing from a dark " Coom," at the far end of which a waterfall is seen in rainy weather. The same or a similar legend appertaining to Curoi of Daire and Blanaid, which has been given in the chapter on Dingle, attaches to this river (see Chapter IX.).
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 62

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, close to Waterville, four huge stones stand upright on a slight rise. They are the gallauns, the name given to upright stones like these. People say they belonged to the age of the Druids, or to the mystic age of the heroes of Erin. In later days the site marked a place where Mass was said. The four stones go by the name Tempul na Cuillah. The road leaves Waterville heading south through the village and crosses a bridge over the Currane River. A cross-road leads along the shores of Lough Currane into the hills at the head of the lake, where a footway goes over the heights to Staigue Fort. Continuing along the main coast route, the four stones come into view. Beyond them, the road bends and crosses a bridge over a little mountain streamlet, the Finglass, issuing from a dark Coom, at the far end of which a waterfall is seen in rainy weather. A legend attaching to this river tells of Curoi of Daire and Blanaid, the same legend given in the chapter on Dingle.

Cove of the Branches and Partholan's signalling legend

Glenbeg · townland · Cork

Legend says Partholan's men searched the shore for a landing place and from the next cove to Glenbeg waved branches of trees to signal their comrades. The cove is still called in Celtic the 'cove of the branches.'

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Legend further states that a party of Partholan's men went along the shores to find a landing-place for the rest of the host, and from the next cove to Glenbeg they waved branches of trees to their comrades to signify that a suitable place had been found, and this cove is called in Celtic to the present time the *^cove of the branches." But each one must gather the legends of this interesting county for himself, and it will greatly add to the pleasure of a tour in Kerry. Continuing along the road for a mile, the rock and islet-studded inlet of '* West Cove " is seen, near which place it is said a fight occurred between Cromwell's soldiers and the Irish. A road turning to the L. leads by a gradual ascent to the Chapel of Coad, which can be seen on the hill slope to the L. This little ruin is dedicated to St Crohane, who is the patron saint of this particular locality. There is nothing very interesting about the ruin, which is on the same plan as most of the early
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 64

Dingle's historic Spanish trade and royal charters

Dingle · townland · Kerry · 1585

Dingle was once an important seaport town enjoying considerable trade with Spain. Queen Elizabeth granted a charter in 1585 with privileges equal to Drogheda and £300 for walling the town; James I later renewed its privileges and granted a charter to elect a 'Sovereign' on St James's Day.

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II. Dingle, surrounded almost by hills and on the shores of a shallow harbour, was once an important seaport town, enjoying a considerable trade with Spain. Queen Elizabeth, in 1585, granted a charter to the town, and gave it the same privileges enjoyed by the town of Drogheda. She also gave ^300 to defray the cost of walling the town. James I. renewed its privileges, and gave it a charter to elect a "Sovereign" on St James's Day. A sword and mace were carried before this important person, and he was empowered to act as Justice of the Peace and Coroner, and had a considerable share of authority. At the present day there is Httle to remind visitors of past greatness. The fishing trade still flourishes, and the fine fleet of trawlers is evidence of the enterprise of the hardy sailor fishermen of this ancient seaport. On the hill, facing the entrance to the town from the E., stands the Catholic church, built of warm red sandstone, and in very good taste. Attached to it is the Presentation Convent. On the opposite slope, and on the R. of the railway station, is the school and religious house belonging to the Christian Brothers.
The AngHcan Church, dedicated to St James, and alleged to have been built at the cost of the Spanish merchants and traders, though this seems unlikely, stands a little off the main street. It is a small unpretentious building, but contains an interesting tablet to a former Knight of Kerry, the inscription on which runs as follows : —

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 86

Legends of Skellig Michael: Ir, Daire, Eitgall, Olaf

near Skellig Rock Great · townland · Kerry · 823

Legend connects Skellig Michael with Ir son of Milesius, who was buried there, and the ships of Daire which harboured there before the Battle of Ventry. In 823 a monk named Eitgall perished on the island from hunger and thirst, and King Olaf Tryggoeson of Norway was said to have been baptised there.

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The Great Skellig—or " Skellig Michael "— has been called " the most western of Christ's fortresses in the ancient world,'' and it has the distinction of being the farthest W. of all the islands in the British group, except the Tearaght Rock. Like Mont St Michel in France and St Michael's Mount in Cornwall, the Great Skellig was formerly the site of a religious foundation dedicated to the archangel St Michael. The wellpreserved remains of the cells and chapel of this lonely monastery can be seen to this day, and it is their existence which makes the journey to the Skelligs so interesting. Compared with the splendid buildings on Mont St Michel, these plain, rough stone edifices look poor indeed. But they impress the beholder far more by their very simplicity. Legend has it that Ir, son of Milesius, was buried here ; that the ships of Daire harboured here on their way to the great Battle of Ventry ; that in 823 one of the monks named Eitgall perished here of hunger and thirst. It is also said that King Olaf Tryggoeson, of Norway, was here baptised. Giraldus Cambrensis mentions the Skellig Michael in the following passage : —
^' In the southern part of Munster, in the neigh-

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 77

Speaking seal legend at Kilshannig

Kilshannig · townland · Kerry

A fisherman at Kilshannig crept up on a mother seal with two young ones and was about to kill her when she spoke to him in Irish saying 'Don't strike me.' He dropped his club; immediately after he moved away, a large boulder fell on the exact spot where the seals had been.

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There is another seal story told about Kilshannig. One day a fisherman went off to kill a seal. After a time of waiting a large specimen was seen on the rocks with two young ones, " and no mother,'^ he said, " could be more careful about putting her babies to sleep." By and by, when the seal had settled her family and lulled them to rest, the fisherman crept up with a club and was about to kill the mother- seal when to his astonishment she said to him in Irish, ** Don't strike me." " No, nor never will," replied the man, and thereupon dropped his club, and the seal and her babies flopped into the sea. The would-be slayer moved from the place, and immediately a large boulder fell on the spot where the seals had been. Had the fisherman remained there he would have been killed.
Strange legends hang around this wild and primitive coast connected with unknown monsters of the deep. " It's my belief," said a man one day, " and the belief of many, that there is no animal on land but what has its like in the sea " ; and then he proceeded to tell of a strange creature which goes around the coast-Hne from the Magharees to Brandon Head, and is called by the people the " Currane Duv," or "Black Sow." It has been seen in the memory of man — a large animal, 15 ft. long, " with mane like a horse," a foot in length, which waves in the water as it swims. Sometimes it goes up the river for a short distance, but its chief habitat is the sea, where it is a terror to the fisher folk ! Like the sea-serpent stories, these local traditions grow when recounted on v/inter nights round the

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 88

Desmond castle in Tralee and the ape legend

Tralee · townland · Kerry · 1261

The old castle of Tralee stood near the site of the houses on the north side of Denny Street and was once the chief stronghold of the Geraldines. Legend holds that after the Battle of Callan in 1261, an ape seized the infant heir of the slain Maurice and conveyed him to safety, giving origin to the Desmond crest and motto 'Crom-a-boo.'

Read the passage

With regard to the secular history of Tralee it has been before said that the old castle, which stood near the site of the houses on the N. side of Denny Street, was once on a time the chief stronghold of the Geraldines. After the Battle of Callan in 1 26 1, the legends have it that the infant heir of Maurice slain in that battle was seized by an ape and poised over the battlements of the castle, and that the ape afterwards conveyed the child to a place of safety and spared its life, to become the founder of the Desmond line. From the incident, the crest, a monkey and motto, Crom-a-boo, is said to have had its origin. " Crom-a-boo " became the war-cry of the Desmonds.
" And foemen fled when Crom-a-boo Proclaimed their lance in rest."

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 85

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, the old castle of Tralee once stood, near where the houses on the north side of Denny Street are now. It was the chief stronghold of the Geraldines. After the Battle of Callan in 1261, the legend goes that the infant heir of Maurice, slain in that battle, was seized by an ape. The ape poised the child over the battlements of the castle, then carried him to a place of safety and spared his life. The child grew to become the founder of the Desmond line. From this, the Desmond crest, a monkey, and the motto "Crom-a-boo" are said to have had their origin. "Crom-a-boo" became the war-cry of the Desmonds. As the old words have it, "And foemen fled when Crom-a-boo proclaimed their lance in rest."

Florence MacCarthy's secret marriage in Killarney church

Killarney · townland · Kerry

Florence MacCarthy broke his engagement to the O'Sullivan More's daughter and ran away with Eileen MacCarthy, heiress of the MacCarthy More. They were married in an old broken church in the wilds of Killarney without bishop's licence, provoking Elizabeth's fury and Florence's banishment.

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The MacCarthy Rieog, or Reagh, mentioned in this old worn inscription, had a son called Florence MacCarthy, who was engaged to the daughter of Sir Owen O' Sullivan More. Queen Elizabeth was anxious that Sir Nicholas Browne of Molahiffe should marry Eileen MacCarthy, the daughter and heiress of the MacCarthy More, Earl of Glencar. But Florence MacCarthy upset all her calculations by running away with this lady and breaking his troth with the fair O' Sullivan. They were married, so says an old writer, "in an old
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 53

Glencar as MacCarthy More territory

near Glencar · population centre · Kerry

Glencar, the beautiful district of lake and river at the head of Caragh Lake, was the territory of the MacCarthy More in former times. Some say he took his title from this district when Queen Elizabeth raised him to the peerage as a rival to the great Geraldine chief.

Read the passage

Glencar is the name given to all the beautiful district of lake and river, of birch, Scots fir, and holly woods, which lies in the heart of the mountains at the head of Caragh Lake. It was all the territory of the MacCarthy More in the days of old, and from this district some say he took his title when Queen Elizabeth raised him to the peerage as a rival to the great Geraldine chief;
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 61

Lixnaw Castle besieged by Wilmot, 1602

Lixnaw · town · Kerry · 1602

In 1602 Sir Charles Wilmot, having swum his horses over the Cashen, laid siege to Lixnaw Castle and by cutting the garrison off from water forced a capitulation. Few vestiges remain of the castle, where culture and refinement once flourished and the Lady of Kerry declared there were only two places to live in—London and Lixnaw.

Read the passage

This home of the FitzMaurices, so graphically described by Dr Smith, went through the horrors of a siege in 1602. Sir Charles Wilmot, marching S., and finding his progress barred by the forces of FitzMaurice, swam his horses over the Cashen, which is the embouchure of the river Feale, and having secured his passage, laid siege to Lixnaw. By a clever device he cut the garrison off from the water and forced a capitulation. Few vestiges remain of this once goodly castle, where, according to the traditions, culture and refinement found a home, and where pleasant water parties on the river, and a variety of entertainments, prompted the Lady of Kerry to write that there were only two places in the world to live in — " London and Lixnaw.'^
In no part of Kerry is the tragedy of time so forcibly brought to mind as in viewing the remains of former days in Lixnaw. The grass-grown

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 85

Pirate ship York wrecked in Magharee Channel

Illauntannig · townland · Kerry

A vessel called the York, suspected of piracy, was piloted by Kerry fishermen through the channel separating Illauntannig from the mainland, where she struck a rock. Some crew landed at Kilshannig and offered treasure to locals, but two chests of gold capsized a canoe and sank to the bottom, later guarded by sea serpents according to divers.

Read the passage

Many years ago, when vessels went with grain from Tralee to Limerick up the Shannon, a strange vessel called the York hailed a grain ship off Kerry Head — " Ahoy there, can you guide us to Tralee \ " The Kerry men hove to and then bore off S. towards the Magharees with the strange ship following in their wake. Pirates were not uncommon in those days, and the Kerry men as they sailed came to the conclusion that the stranger was a pirate. So they piloted her through the channel which separates the large island of Illauntannig from the mainland. There the York struck on a rock. She had fifty men on board, and was laden with chests of gold and treasure. Immediately on striking the rock, the crew of the Torh trained their bow guns on the Kerry boat which had piloted them to their doom. But their shots fell wide of the mark, and the Kerry men arrived safely in Castlegregory, leaving the pirates to their fate. Some of the crew of the pirate craft landed at Kilshannig and asked the people how many harvests they had in the year, and on being told two, they answered, "Well, there's two more for you if you come out to the wreck." Some of the Kilshannig people went out and were presented with two chests of gold, which were so heavy that they capsized the canoe and went to the bottom of the sea. The rest of the cargo of gold was safely salved by the pirates, who disappeared mysteriously and were never heard of again. Many years after this event, divers came to try and recover the two lost chests ; but on descending they found them guarded by serpents " as big as horses," and were obliged to give up the work. So the chests of gold still remain beneath the green
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 88

Prophecy fulfilled: boats on Lough Leane break Ross Castle siege, 1652

Ross Castle · castle · Kerry · 1652

A tradition among the people of Kerry held that Ross Castle would never be taken until ships should swim on the lake. Ludlow devised a plan to send large boats from Kenmare round the coast to the mouth of the river Laune, drag them upstream, and launch one on the lake, fulfilling the prophecy and discouraging the garrison into surrender.

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Ludlow, however, was a General full of resource, and he devised the plan of sending large boats round the coast from Kenmare to the mouth of the river Laune. These boats were dragged up the river, and one, being quickly fitted out, proceeded to reconnoitre the castle from the waterside. This was enough to discourage the garrison. The prophecy was fulfilled — resistance would be vain ! Commissioners were appointed to treat, and, after a fortnight's parley, conditions were drawn up and agreed to by both sides, and the garrison surrendered.
Koss Island, From Ross Castle a beautiful walk or drive may be taken round Ross Island where the arbutus grows luxuriantly. The coppermines, the old workings of which are still to be seen on this island, were opened in 1804, and the work was continued for about four years, till the influx of water stopped all further operations. The drive or cycle ride round Ross Island shows view on view of Lough Leane, each one different from another. For the first part of the route Castle Lough Bay opens out, backed by the outline of hills, the Paps, Stoompa, Mangerton, and Tore, and the wooded shores of Muckross. Islands stud this bay. Elephant Rock, Cow Island, Friar's Islet, Holm Island, and the " Hen and Chickens " Rocks. On reaching the coppermines, a fine expanse of water lies in front of the

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 40

Spanish Armada wreck in Blasket Sound, 1588

Blasket Sound · minor feature · Kerry · 1588

The Nuestra Señora del Rosario, a 1000-ton Spanish Armada ship commanded by the Prince of Ascule, was wrecked in the Blasket Sound on 10 September 1588. Only one person survived out of approximately five hundred souls on board, John Antonio de Monona, the pilot's Genoese son.

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is apparent, the islands being "scaled" ofF the mainland. Formerly they were part of the possessions of the great Earls of Desmond. A family of the name of Ferriter obtained them as a gift, and afterwards forfeited them to the Crown when the Desmond wars were over. In 1586 they were granted by letters patent to George Stone, of Kingston, in Surrey, and Cornelius Champion, and eventually they were sold to Richard Boyle, first Earl of Cork, and have been in the family down to the present day. These islands were the centres of a large Spanish fishing industry in the days of Queen Elizabeth. It was in the " Sound," with its treacherous rocks and rushing tide, that Our Lady of the Rosary^ one of the Spanish Armada, was wrecked on Tuesday, loth September 1588. This badly battered ship, of 1000 tons burden, her tackle torn by shot, and a hole in her hull between wind and water, laboured on to try and reach a harbour. She was commanded by the Prince of Ascule, son of the King of Spain, and with him were Don Pedro, Don Diego, Don Francesco, and seventy other " gentlemen of account," and a ship's company numbering in all five hundred souls, and Michel Ocquendo was *' governor" of the ship. The pilot, " small blame to him," as they say, ran her on a rock by accident, and only one person out of the whole number on board was saved. This man, John Antonio de Monona, son of the pilot, and a Genoese by birth, was afterwards examined by Sir William Herbert, Lord President of Munster, and in his statement gave a minute description of the Prince of Ascule, telling how, when the ship went down, this gay Spaniard was
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 87

Caherdaniel's old caher compared to Staigue and Caher Gal

Caherdaniel · townland · Kerry

The old stone fort near Caherdaniel is said by some to be Danish, but it closely resembles the forts of Caher Gal and Staigue, now believed to belong to the period just prior to the Christian era.

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fort or " caher," situated about a mile W. of the village, on the R. hand side of the main road from Waterville. This old "caher" is said to be Danish by some people, but it presents an exactly similar appearance to the forts of " Caher Gal" and " Staigue," which are now believed to belong to the period of Irish history just prior to the Christian era.
IV. Caherdaniel to Sneem, Before leaving the neighbourhood of Caherdaniel it would be well to visit the peninsula which runs out to Lamb Head, and forms the southern boundary of the pretty secluded bay of Darrynane. A quarter of a mile S. of Caherdaniel village a road branches off from the main road and leads along the N. side of this promontory. For a mile and a half it is possible to bicycle, after which the journey must be made on foot. This road affords a particularly good view of Darrynane, sheltered by its wooded slopes, of Scarifl and Deenish islands, and the cliffs and sea. It is so short a way out of the main route, and is so pleasing a diversion, that it must be recommended to all visitors. Recently a good many specimens of copper ore have been found on this peninsula. Rejoining the main road once more, and leaving the Presbytery on the right, a slight descent leads to the bay of Glenbeg, with a sugar-loaf shaped mountain on its E. side (2 m.) called Peakeen.

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 64

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Caherdaniel there is an old stone fort, a caher. Some people say it is Danish. But it looks exactly like the forts of Caher Gal and Staigue, which are now believed to belong to the period just before the Christian era.

Gallerus Castle and the dying FitzGerald's last gaze

Gallarus Castle · castle · Kerry

Gallerus Castle, a medieval stronghold of the Knights of Kerry, was built as an outpost to keep the Smerwick and Ballyferriter district in order. A local tradition tells of a dying FitzGerald who asked to be carried to a window to gaze at the breakers on Smerwick Harbour before he died.

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Gallerus Castle. Gallerus Castle, which has been mentioned in this chapter, was one of the old castles of the Knights of Kerry, and is a mediaeval building of the usual type found throughout the county. It was probably built as an outpost to keep the district around Smerwick and Ballyferriter in order. But there is a story connected with it which cannot but appeal to all who feel the fascination of the wild scenery in this part of Kerry. One of the FitzGeralds, when he was dying, begged his attendants to carry him to a window of the castle where he might see the long line of breakers on the shores of Smerwick Harbour. Those who know the view will call to mind the background of the " Three Sisters," faint in colour, over a green and violet sea, and the white foam fringing the golden sands. The dying Geraldine gazed long at this beautiful scene, and when his attendants wished to bear him back to his couch he refused to leave the window and was supported by their arms. At last he lay quite still and silent, and his attendants then saw that he was dead. He had died with his last gaze on earth resting on this loved Kerry scene.
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 87

Giraldus Cambrensis on the miraculous wine stone of Skellig Michael

near Skellig Rock Great · townland · Kerry

Giraldus Cambrensis described a stone outside the porch of the church on Skellig Michael that miraculously filled each morning with enough wine for the celebration of Masses. This tradition underscored the island's reputation for orthodox sanctity from ancient times.

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bourhood of Cork, there is an island with a church dedicated to St Michael, famed for its orthodox sanctity from very ancient times. " There is a stone outside the porch of this church on the right hand, and partly fixed in the wall, with a hollow in its surface, which every morning, through the merits of the saint to whom the church is dedicated, is filled with as much wine as will conveniently sufiRce for the service of the Masses on the day ensuing, according to the number of priests there are who have to celebrate them."
Probably the ancient monastery continued to be inhabited long after the foundation of Ballinskelligs on the mainland, and was resorted to as a place of pilgrimage and penance for many a long year. The landing-place is at a comparatively sheltered spot on the E. side of the island, near the mouth of a great cave, and in rough weather the aid of a " derrick " is required. From the landing-place a good roadway leads up to the lighthouse, ^ m. (built about the year 1854). This lighthouse is 175 ft. over the sea, and has a light of 2500 candle-power. A more powerful modern light will soon replace this old one. Half-way along the roadway a flight of rude steps leads to a grassy miniature valley between two peaks, where seapinks and beautiful ''rose root" i^Sedum rhodiola) grow in profusion. This is called " Christ's Saddle," and is 422 ft. above the sea. More steps lead up towards the eastern peak, and then a little flagged pathway leads to the Beehive huts and oratories, which form the monastic buildings of Skellig Michael. It would be impossible to describe the impressions which will be made on all who stand within

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 77

O'Donoghue legend of Tir-nan-Oge beneath Killarney Lake

near Lough Leane · lake or lakes · Kerry

A legend tells how an O'Donoghue of old built a city called Tir-nan-Oge, the land of perpetual youth, beneath the waters of Killarney Lake. The fairies from this submerged land are said to visit the land above even to the present day.

Read the passage

But added to all these attractions there is the charm of Kerry, and it is difficult to say from what that comes. It is something indescribable, but felt none the less surely by all who come to the county. Perhaps it arises from the colour on the hills and on the sea, or from the combination of cloud and sunshine, which Hvres in people's memories, even when the grey days of mist and rain blot out the pictures, or perhaps it comes from the wealth of foliage and the warmth which the Old Red Sandstone rocks give to the landscape. But from whatever cause it springs, it is an enchantment, taking hold of most people as strongly now as it did in the days of old, when it turned the Norman and Saxon settlers '*more Irish than the Irish themselves." Kerry is always young ; and there may be a deeper meaning than appears at first sight in the legend which tells how an O'Donoghue of old built a city in the land of perpetual youth, called Tir-nan-Oge, beneath the waters of Killarney Lake, and how the fairies from that land of perpetual youth visit the land above, even to the present day.
But, as every one is not impressed by scenery alone, so Kerry offers a variety of interests for all comers. The flora and fauna afford a rich field for those who care to study the many species of birds and flowers and ferns to be found. The remains of the early Christian period of our history are to be found in beehive cells and stone-roofed oratories, pilgrims' roads, and legends

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 3

O'Donoghue legend: Tir-nan-Oge and the white horse over Lough Leane

near Lough Leane · lake or lakes · Kerry

Legends cling to O'Donoghue Ross, including the tale of a city beneath the waters of Lough Leane in the land called Tir-nan-Oge. O'Donoghue is said to revisit the upper world once every seven years on a May morning, mounting his white horse and riding over the waters of the lake, bringing luck to those who witness the apparition.

Read the passage

m. distant from the town. The background of mountains and the woods which come close up to its walls make it a conspicuous object from almost every point of view, and it is difficult to say from what point it presents its most attractive appearance. The building probably dates from the close of the 14th century, and it was originally the strong fortress of O'Donoghue Ross, who must not be confounded with O'Donoghue More, the great chief of the sept of O'Donoghue. Many legends cling to the name of this ancient possessor of Ross Castle, and amongst them is that which tells of the foundation of a city beneath the waters of the lake in the land which was called " Tirnan-Oge" or the <* Land of Perpetual Youth." From the Land of Perpetual Youth O'Donoghue is said to revisit the upper world once in seven years, on a morning in May, and mounting his white horse, which for seven years has remained a solitary and immovable rock, he rides over the waters of the great Lough Leane. Luck is believed to attend the person who sees the great chieftain on these rare occasions. Far up on the bare side of the Toomies Mountains lies a little patch of green amidst the brown heather. There the snow lingers longest in springtime, and legend says that <'Parkeen Na Coppal bawn," or the "Field of the White Horse" (as the green spot is called), is the grazing ground of O'Donoghue's steed. The lone rock standing out between the castle and Innisfallen Island is '* O'Donoghue's Prison," where captives were chained to iron weights. A splash of water from the crest of a broken wave is O'Donoghue's blessing. So legend on legend keeps green the memory of the founder of Ross Castle.
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 39

Siege of Tralee Castle under Sir Thomas Harris

Tralee · townland · Kerry · 1641–1642

Sir Thomas Harris defended the castle of Tralee, entrusted to him by Sir Edward Denny. One hundred and five persons took refuge within the walls; the garrison held out for six months despite shortage of ammunition and filthy water before surrendering.

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keeping of this castle by Sir Edward Denny, and all the attempts of the confederates to seduce him from his allegiance proved unavailing. This investment of Tralee Castle was a sad episode. One hundred and five persons sought refuge within the walls, and though the garrison was short of ammunition and had to drink filthy water, the brave defenders held out for six months, till they were absolutely destitute of ammunition and provisions — then they surrendered, but not Sir Thomas Harris, who, worn out by anxiety and hardship, died before the capitulation. Then King Charles, who had sacrificed Strafford, made peace with the confederate Catholics, and the rebels of yesterday became the Royalists of to-day and joined the king's forces against Cromwell and the Parliament.
In 1645 Joh° Baptiste Rinuncini, Archbishop of Fermo and legate of the Pope, arrived in Kenmare River. Admiral Blake was on his track and his frigate barely escaped capture, being chased by an English ship which failed to capture the foreigner owing, it is said, to the " cook room of the man-of-war taking fire." The Parliamentary General Ludlow marched to Kerry after the defeat of Lord Muskerry at Knocknichashky, in County Cork, and finding that the Irish General had established himself at Ross Castle near Killarney, one of the strongest fortresses in possession of the Irish, and was receiving food and supplies from the opposite force of Lough Leane, he made plans to dislodge him. He cut the garrison off from the mainland, and had boats sent round to Castlemaine and conveyed up the Laune River by hand.

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 27

Thomas, 8th Earl of Desmond, said to have been beheaded at Tralee

Tralee · townland · Kerry

According to legend, Tralee rather than Drogheda was the place where Thomas, 8th Earl of Desmond, was beheaded. His retainers, the De Veres, renounced their Norman name and adopted that of M'Swiney instead, through hatred and revenge.

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In deference to legend again it may be stated that Tralee and not Drogheda is said to have been the place where Thomas, 8th Earl of Desmond, was beheaded, and where his retainers the De Veres renounced their Norman name and adopted that of M'Swiney instead, " through hatred and revenge." It was to Tralee in 1579 that Sir William Drury came to make the writ of " good Queen Bess " run in the palatinate of the Earl of Desmond — that great but unfortunate Earl of Desmond whom Sir Henry Sidney described as " a man void of judgment to govern or will to be ruled.'' Sir William
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 85

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, according to legend, Thomas, the 8th Earl of Desmond, was beheaded. The story says it happened here at Tralee, not at Drogheda as others claim. After his death, his retainers, the De Veres, gave up their Norman name and took the name M'Swiney instead, what the old book calls doing so "through hatred and revenge." It was to Tralee in 1579 that Sir William Drury came, to make the writ of Queen Elizabeth run in the palatinate of the Earl of Desmond. Sir Henry Sidney described that great but unfortunate earl as "a man void of judgment to govern or will to be ruled."

Castle Cove village and its unfinished tower legend

Castle Cove · street · Dublin · 1500–1700

Castle Cove village takes its name from an ancient unfinished tower by the sea. A local legend tells of an ambitious woman who built the castle while her husband was away on a foray some 300 years ago; he returned in a rage and forbade another stone being laid.

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Castle Cove. The village of Castle Cove takes its name from an ancient tower which stands unfinished by the edge of the sea. The story goes that long ages ago a man and his wife lived in the glen leading to Staigue Fort. The lady, being ambitious, wished to have a " castle " to live in, such as others greater than she possessed in the old Kingdom of Kerry. Her husband resisted all her entreaties, deeming the more humble dwelling adequate for their wants. On one occasion, however, he went off on a foray or an excursion of some kind, and his wife
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 65

Ardea Castle ruin and the Killarney prophecy

Ardea · townland · Kerry

Ardea Castle, on a promontory overlooking the sea about two miles beyond Cloonee Loughs, is now a ruin but was once the stronghold of the O'Sullivan More. The shale and sand cliffs beneath it are gradually being washed away, and local tradition holds that when the castle disappears the lakes of Killarney will be no more.

Read the passage

turning to the R., through the woods, which extend for half-a-mile along the shores of the estuary to the open country, which gives views of wonderful beauty, the island of Dinish, on which Mr Herbert has a house, is passed. This is some 3 J m. from Kenmare. Three m. further on a cross-road branches off to the L., leading, as it seems, to a glen. Leaving this road and continuing a mile further on the main road, the Cloonee loughs appear in view on the left, and 2 m. beyond this, on a promontory overlooking the sea on the R., is Ardea Castle — now a ruin, but once the strong fortress of the O'Sulhvan More. The cliffs of shale and sand on which this ruin stands are gradually being washed away, and tradition has it that when this old castle disappears the lakes of Killarney will be no more. Beyond Ardea the road leads to Kilmacilloge Harbour and the long valley of Glenmore. All this is classic ground and connected with the name of Froude and the charming book written by him in this locality, called the " Two Chiefs of Dunboy." People visiting this romantic region should not fail to read this book, which gives so truly the atmosphere of Kerry, even if the accuracy of its details is not all that might be desired. Derreen is the home of the Marquis of Lansdowne, who has succeeded in creating here a place as near an earthly paradise as is possible. A visitor to Kerry permitted to see the grounds of Derreen will be astonished at the number and variety of the sub-tropical plants which grow and flourish in this favoured spot. As all this is private ground, and not available for everyone, it seems unnecessary to give any lengthened description of it in this *^ Little Guide.''
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 55

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stands Ardea Castle, a ruin on a promontory overlooking the sea. It was once the strong fortress of the O'Sullivan More. The cliffs of shale and sand beneath it are gradually being washed away, and tradition has it that when this old castle disappears, the lakes of Killarney will be no more. The castle sits about two miles beyond the Cloonee loughs, which appear on the left as you come along the main road. The ruin looks out over the sea to the right. Beyond Ardea, the road leads on to Kilmacilloge Harbour and the long valley of Glenmore. All this is classic ground, connected with the name of Froude and the book he wrote in this locality, called the "Two Chiefs of Dunboy." People visiting this romantic region should not fail to read it, which gives so truly the atmosphere of Kerry, even if the accuracy of its details is not all that might be desired. Near here also is Derreen, the home of the Marquis of Lansdowne, who has succeeded in creating a place as near an earthly paradise as is possible. A visitor permitted to see the grounds of Derreen will be astonished at the number and variety of the sub-tropical plants which grow and flourish in this favoured spot. As it is private ground, and not available for everyone, it seems unnecessary to give any lengthened description of it.

Burning of Tralee in the Williamite War

Tralee · townland · Kerry · 1691

In 1691, during the Revolution, Irish adherents of James II burnt Tralee. Captains Navarre and O'Loughnane, who had ordered the burning, narrowly escaped hanging after Colonel Denny interceded for their lives.

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Captain Bridges, who was sent by Lord Inchiquin to Tralee. By this time most of the Irish confederates had joined Lord Muskerry, and the way was being prepared for the peace which Lord Ormonde eventually made with the confederate Catholics, and which turned them from enemies of the king into devoted Royalists and enemies of Cromwell and the Parliament, In the Revolution of 1688 Kerry sided with the unfortunate James II. But it was not till 1691 that Levison, with his dragoons, entered the northern part of the county, and the Irish adherents of the king de jure burnt Tralee. Then Ginkel, the famous general of WiUiam of Orange, sent a detachment of the Prince of Denmark's regiment in support of Levison, and Captains Navarre and O'Loughnane, who had ordered the burning of Tralee, went very near being hanged. Colonel Denny, however, interceded for them, and their lives were saved.
Tralee owes its present importance as a commercial town partly to its position as the centre of a large agricultural district, and partly to the vigour and enterprise of its people. Every day is a sort of market-day, and the merchants and shopkeepers of Tralee are amongst the most energetic in the S. of Ireland. As a centre for tourist traffic it has not the advantages of Killarney, but there are many things in and around it to interest the passing traveller on his way to the wild district of Dingle. The fine modern Parish Church, with a graceful spire, stands almost in the centre of the town, and the Dominican Church, in Day Place, built of warm red sandstone, are well worth a visit. The school of the Christian Brothers, the con-

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 85

Butler salmon weir granted by charter of King John

Waterville · townland · Kerry · 1199–1216

The weir on the river connecting Lough Currane to the sea at Waterville supplies the Butlers of Waterville House with salmon. The weir was granted by charter in the days of King John.

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lies within a stone's-throw of the waters of Ballinskelligs Bay, and the murmur of the sea is ever present in and around the place. Situated on the shore, commanding a fine view of Bolus Head to the W. and Hog's Head to the S., and with a background of mountains beyond the lake, which lies i m. from the town, Waterville may be said to be one of the most healthful places in Kerry; and it possesses a strong attraction, although the country around is, for the most part, a treeless waste. There is a peculiar charm in the quiet colouring and the combination of sea and mountain which occurs about here. The Httle river which leads the waters of the Lake Currane to the sea is the property of the Butlers of Waterville House, and the weir which supplies them with salmon for sale and for use was granted by charter in the days of King John.
I. Lough Ciirrane, The big lake to which the eager fisherman resorts as soon as the season opens is about a mile to the S.E. of the village. Following the long street southwards a bridge is crossed close to Waterville House, and about 200 yards beyond this a road branches off to the L. by a small plantation. This road, passing the " Southern Hotel" on the L., leads by the S. shore of the lake to the heart of the mountains, where the traveller may make his way by rough mountain tracks over the hills to Staigue Fort or Sneem — the track to Staigue Fort being fairly easy ; that to Sneem being barely traceable, and very difficult. (See further on in this Guide.) For the present, however. Lough Currane must claim attention. This lake, so unlike all the other lakes in the colouring of its attendant hills and in the bare,

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 59

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, close to Waterville, there is a salmon weir on the little river that carries the waters of Lough Currane down to the sea. That river and that weir belong to the Butlers of Waterville House. The weir supplies them with salmon, for sale and for their own use, and it was granted by charter in the days of King John, between 1199 and 1216. Waterville itself sits on the shore, within a stone's throw of the waters of Ballinskelligs Bay, and the murmur of the sea is always present. From here there is a view of Bolus Head to the west and Hog's Head to the south, with mountains rising beyond the lake, which lies a mile from the town. The country around is for the most part a treeless waste, but there is a quiet charm in the colouring, the way the sea and the mountain meet about here. Waterville is said to be one of the most healthful places in Kerry. Lough Currane lies about a mile to the southeast of the village. Following the long street southward, a bridge is crossed close to Waterville House, and about 200 yards beyond that a road branches off to the left by a small plantation. That road, passing the Southern Hotel on the left, leads by the south shore of the lake into the heart of the mountains. From there, rough tracks run over the hills to Staigue Fort or Sneem. The track to Staigue Fort is fairly easy. The track to Sneem is barely traceable and very difficult. But the lake itself, so unlike the other lakes in the colouring of its hills and in the bare character of its shores, is where the eager fisherman resorts as soon as the season opens.

Clough-na-Cuddy: Father Cuddy's praying stone with medicinal waters

Killarney · townland · Kerry

In the grounds of Killarney House stood the stone of 'Cuddy,' associated with a legend that Father Cuddy, a monk of Innisfallen, prayed so long he fell asleep for 200 years. His knees wore two round holes in the rock containing water with supposed medicinal properties, marked by a 'rag tree' with visitors' tokens tied to it.

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Clough-na-Cuddy . Not far from the "Dairy," which is the western object of interest and beauty in the grounds of Killarney House, is the stone of "Cuddy." The legend has it that one Father Cuddy, a monk of Innisfallen, went once upon a time to pray in the woods. He prayed so long and so earnestly that presently he fell asleep, and remained in a state of forgetfulness for full 200 years. His knees wore the two round holes in the rock which now contain water with medicinal properties, to judge from the number of people who tie their small memory tokens to the " rag tree " overhanging the stone. The story of F ather Cuddy is rather similar to that of Rip Van Winkle. Coming back to the world after 200 years of sleep, he found all changed in the monastery of Innisfallen, and also heard the story of one of the monks who 200 years before had gone one fine morning to pray in the woods and had never returned.
Ross Castle, One of the most celebrated places to be seen in the neighbourhood of Killarney is the grey old tower standing on the edge of the lake, i^

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 38

Desmond's raid on the Lord of Lixnaw, 1576

Lixnaw · town · Kerry · 1575–1576

In 1575 the Earl of Desmond escaped captivity and wreaked vengeance on the Lord of Lixnaw, who had declared independence during Desmond's imprisonment. Desmond's men invaded the country, killed tenants, and carried off 600 cattle and 800 sheep and hogs, to the utter undoing of the baron and his tenants.

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After charging the Earl's Constable of Carrickfoyle with complicity, he adds a postscript as follows : — " My good Lord, after sending off this letter, the Earl of Desmond did send such force as he brought with him over the mountains this morning into my country, and invaded all the W. part of the same, and carried with him 600 kine, 800 sheep and hogs, to the utter undoing of myself and all my poor tenants."
This seems to have been a regular Border raid, differing but Httle from those which took place in Scotland and North England at the time. As a centre for touring, Listowel does not pre-

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 89

Dominican prior of Tralee executed in Killarney, 1653

Killarney · townland · Kerry · 1653

The prior of the Tralee Dominican monastery refused to leave Ireland in 1653 and was condemned to the scaffold. He met his death in Killarney, saying with his last breath, 'Into Thy hands, Lord, I commit my spirit.'

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In 1296, Thomas FitzGerald, the ancestor of a long line of Desmond chiefs, was buried in this abbey. The present " Square '' is supposed to be the site of the cloisters of the ancient monastic building which seems with fluctuating fortune to have existed down to the reign of James II. It gave its martyrs to the Church, and amongst the number was the prior, who in 1653 refused to leave Ireland, and was condemned to the scaffold. He met his death "right manfully" in Killarney, saying with his last breath, "Into Thy hands. Lord, I commit my spirit."
Another worthy brother of the Order of St Dominic in Tralee was Dominick O'Daly, who in 1655, under the name of Dominic a' Rosario, was rector of Campo Santo College in Portugal, and established " Le Convent de Bon Succes " for Irish

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 85

Finglas River and the milk-flood signal

near Finglas River · river · Kerry

The Finglas ('white brook') River features in the legend of Curoi and Blanaid as the signal stream: Blanaid poured milk into it so Cuchullin, seeing its waters run white, would attack. The river flows white in flood to this day, commemorating the tale.

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Then Blanaid persuaded Curoi of Daire to build a fortress on the summit of the mountain of Caherconree which should surpass all the kingly forts of Erin, and to send his men throughout the land to find the greatest stones wherewith to build it. The guard being dispersed abroad, and Curoi alone and defenceless, Blanaid obtained numerous pails of milk and poured them into the stream. Cuchullin, seeing the waters running white and remembering the signal agreed upon, rushed in and slew Curoi of Daire and carried off the faithless Blanaid to Ulster to the palace of Emania. But Curoi's bard pursued the pair and found them on the promontory of Ken Barra with Connor MacNessa and a great company of knights and warriors. The bard watched his opportunity, and seeing Blanaid approach to the edge of the cliffs he came behind her and caught her in his arms and sprang with her into the wild sea. Such is the story of Curoi of Daire and beautiful faithless Blanaid, and the Finglas River to this day flows white in flood to bring the legend to mind.
On the R. of the railway as it ascends the side of the mountain may be seen far away Brandon

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 86

As the companion tells it

You are coming through the country of the Finglas River, the white brook, whose floods still run milk-white and carry an old story with them. Blanaid persuaded Curoi of Daire to build a fortress on the summit of Caherconree that would surpass all the kingly forts of Erin. She had him send his men throughout the land to find the greatest stones for the building. With the guard dispersed and Curoi alone and defenceless, Blanaid took numerous pails of milk and poured them into the stream. Cuchullin saw the waters running white, remembered the signal they had agreed upon, rushed in and slew Curoi of Daire, and carried off the faithless Blanaid to Ulster, to the palace of Emania. But Curoi's bard pursued the pair and found them on the promontory of Ken Barra with Connor MacNessa and a great company of knights and warriors. The bard watched his opportunity. Seeing Blanaid approach the edge of the cliffs, he came behind her, caught her in his arms, and sprang with her into the wild sea. The Finglas River flows white in flood to this day to bring the legend to mind.

Golden eagles nested at Eagle's Nest near Killarney, 1887

Eagle's Nest · island or archipelago · Donegal · 1887

In 1887 a pair of golden eagles built their nest in the crags of the mountain called Eagle's Nest near Killarney. The nest was harried by an unknown egg-collector and the eagles never returned.

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Birds, — Chief amongst the birds of Kerry is the golden eagle. He is given the place of honour because, though nowadays hardly ever seen or heard of, on more than one occasion in comparatively recent years the bird and the nest have been met with in Kerry. In 1887 a pair of golden eagles built their nest in the crags of the mountain called " Eagle's Nest," near Killarney. The egg-collecting propensity, which has done such damage to our wild birds, caused the nest to be harried by some unknown person, and the eagles have never returned. About the same time a party when woodcock
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 12

Kerry 'Skelligs List' marriage custom

near Skellig Rock Great · townland · Kerry · 600

A custom prevailed in Kerry of issuing a 'Skelligs List' naming young men and maidens not married by Shrove Tuesday. The tradition arose because Skellig Michael adhered to the old Celtic Easter computation, making Lent begin later there than on the mainland.

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A strange story is sometimes to be heard in the neighbouring mainland of music which is said to issue from the monastery at night time. Many years ago a custom prevailed in Kerry of issuing what was called a " Skelligs List," containing the names of the young men and maidens who had not married at " Shrove Tide." Should a young person not be married by Shrove Tuesday, he or she was said to " go to the Skelligs." The origin of this saying was probably due to the following fact. When the Roman computation of Easter, introduced to the Western Church by St Hilary, found its way to Ireland in the yth century, Munster at once accepted it. More of the out-of-the-way places, however, adhered for a long time to the old Celtic method of computing the time of the Paschal Feast, and amongst these places the Skellig Michael.
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 78

Kilmalkedar Cathedral and its ancient monuments

Kilmalkedar · townland · Kerry

The Cathedral of Kilmalchedor (Kilmalkedar) features Romanesque architecture dating to about the 9th century. A pillar stone at the western end bears a 6th-century alphabet in Roman characters with the word 'Domine' inscribed above, and the eastern window is still crawled through by people seeking cures for ailments.

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the chancel are worth observing. The E. window, round topped also, bears evidence of the friction of human bodies, for people still crawl through it to cure them of their ailments. Rude stone crosses stand in the graveyard, marking long-forgotten graves. The foundation of this church is later than the oratory at Gallerus, though, in all probability, the latter was used at the same time as the cathedral. — "
Leaving Kilmalchedor and all its interesting relics of bye-gone days, the road leads E. and then N. and E. again, past another stone oratory (i m.) similar to that at Gallerus, but in a less perfect state of preservation. At the E. side of the harbour of Smerwick is seen the white coastguard station, and a good view is obtained up Ballydavid Head, crowned by a crumbling tower, one of the many built to watch for the foe in the days of the French wars. About 4 m. from Kilmalchedor this road meets the road leading direct from Dingle to Brandon Creek, or, as it is sometimes called, Cloosawithic. It would be well to turn to the L. at this point, and following the road at the base of Mount Brandon, pay a visit to this creek. A group of fishermen's cottages and a store, where a variety of useful articles can be bought, marks the end of this road. Crossing the sward a few yards brings the visitor to the creek, a deep cleft eaten into the land by the sea. A good pier has been built by the " Congested Districts Board" here, and 70 or 80 "canoes" can be seen turned bottom upwards looking like great black beetles. These canoes are formed of a frail framework of laths covered with tarred canvas, and are most seaworthy craft. On an evening when the herring fishing is in full swing

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 87

Maurice Stack treacherously murdered at Beale Castle

Beal · electoral division · Kerry · 1600

Maurice Stack, who had helped defend Liscahane, was invited to dine at Beale Castle by the wife of Lord Kerry and was treacherously murdered by officers with skeins. His body was thrown from a high window into the courtyard.

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We read that the fortifications of Beale, then called Beaulieu, were destroyed by Patrick, Lord Kerry, who shortly afterwards died of grief at seeing Lixnaw in the possession of the English. Then we read that the Knight of Kerry was granted protection by Sir Charles Wilmot for his loyalty in refusing to allow the Sugane Earl into his castle at Dingle, and that his loyalty cost him dear and exposed him to annoyance from the followers of the Sugane Earl of Desmond. About the end of August 1600 Maurice Stack, a brave man who had assisted in the defence of Lischane, was invited to dine at the Castle of Beale or Beaulieu by the wife of the Lord Kerry, and was treacherously murdered by some officers with " skeins," and his body thrown from a high window into the courtyard. The brother of the Lady Kerry — the' Earl of Thomond — was so disgusted by this treacherous deed that he refused to see his sister again, and she shortly afterwards died.
Soon after this a French ship, laden with wine, provisions, and ammunition, came to Dingle, and

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 25

Mermaid wife legend at Kilshannig

Kilshannig · townland · Kerry

A fisherman at Kilshannig found a mermaid on a rock combing her hair, took her home as his wife, and had three children with webbed feet. When he accidentally dislodged her hidden white wand years later, she seized it and vanished into the sea forever.

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Another legend is here given as it was taken down a short while ago from the lips of an inhabitant. It is the legend of a mermaid. Many years since- — not in the days of the oldest man now living in Kilshannig, but in the days of the father of the oldest living inhabitant, it happened that a fisherman was going along the kelp covered rocks to his usual fishing ground where he stood the day long waiting for a nibble from a wrass. As he walked along he saw a mermaid seated on a rock combing her hair, and having a white wand by her side. Going up to her, he put his hand on her shoulder, and she rose up and went with him to his house and remained with him as his wife. She was a beautiful woman, and stayed quite contentedly in his cottage by the sea. But at times she was restless for the loss of her white wand, which had been taken away and hidden. Three children were born, and all had webbed feet. As time went on the mermaid wife seemed to forget her former sea life. A big seal, it is true, came daily to the rocks to bask in the sun at low tide, but she did not seem to notice him, and apparently had no thought of changing her life for his sake. But one day, however, when her husband was going out fishing, and was searching for his lines amongst the rubbish in the recess over the fireplace in the cottage, he dislodged the white wand which had been hidden and forgotten many years before. In a moment his wife snapped it up and ran from the house and was never seen or heard of again.
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 88

Muckross Abbey founded 1440 by Donal MacCarthy More

Muckross · townland · Kerry · 1440

Muckross Abbey was founded in 1440 by Donal MacCarthy More for Franciscan monks. A legend tells how the chieftain was exhorted in a vision to build an abbey at 'Carraig Na Ceol' or the 'Rock of Song', and after a fruitless search a singing maiden led his followers to the spot. Some annals, however, record an abbey standing at this place before 1440.

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Muckross Abbey, This abbey was founded in 1440 by Donal MacCarthy More for Franciscan monks. The old legend connected with the founding tells how the chieftain was exhorted in a vision to build an abbey at " Carraig Na Ceol,'' or the " Rock of Song," and how, sending his followers for many a day in fruitless search for this rock of song, they had well-nigh abandoned the hope of finding the spot, when a little maiden bearing a pitcher and singing an old Irish lament met the searchers at the place where Muckross now stands, and how they went with great rejoicing to tell the chieftain they had found the " Rock of Song." The legend is a pretty one but possibly void of foundation, for some annals tell of an abbey standing at this place prior to 1440, and an inspection of the existing buildings will probably bear out the theory that part at any rate of the abbey shows traces of having been built at different periods. The church itself is of the Late Decorated period of architecture, for though exceedingly plain and simple in detail, the doorways and windows show traces of the influence of later Gothic. The cuttings are deep, and the heads of some of the windows show the ogee arch with rectangular overhanging ledge. The piscina
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 42

Rahinane Castle, burnt by Sir Charles Wilmot, 1601

Rahinane · townland · Tipperary · 1601

Rahinane Castle, the old country house of the Knights of Kerry near Ventry, was burnt and destroyed by Sir Charles Wilmot in 1601 during the suppression of Kerry after the failed O'Neill and O'Donnell rising. The Knight of Kerry had taken the field against English forces and met defeat at Ballinahow near Dingle.

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(2) Rahinane, standing ruined and forsaken on the slope of the hill, was formerly the old country house of the Knights of Kerry, whose town house was " The Grove '' in Dingle. The remains of this once strong castle afford a fair example of the ancient " keeps," which were formerly held in the stormy days of old. The castle was burnt and destroyed by Sir Charles Wilmot in 1601, when he was sent to reduce Kerry to submission after the abortive rising under O'Neill and O'Donnell. The Knight of Kerry at that period was daring enough to take the field in opposition to the English forces, and having met with defeat at Ballinahow, near Dingle, he paid the penalty in the loss of his castle of Rahinane.
Leaving Rahinane behind, and returning to the cross-road near Ventry village, the traveller continues on past the lonely little chapel on the L., and having Marhin and Mount Eagle on his R. for some 3 m., always keeping the L. hand road, to Fahan, where the old watch-tower stands on the

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 87

Ruined abbey of St Finan on Abbey Island

Abbey Island · townland · Kerry

The ruined abbey of St Finan on Abbey Island (now connected to the mainland by silted sand) is a good example of early Christian architecture in Ireland, though the church and monastic buildings were built at different periods. It was once occupied by the Austin Canons Regular.

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lies close to the harbour, and a visit from this point ! should be made to the ruined abbey of St Finan. On this island, as well as on the neighbouring hills ■ near Darrynane, the rare plant *^ Simethis bicolor " ■ 18 to be found. The abbey presents a good example of the early Christian architecture of Ireland. But there are evidences that the church and the monastic buildings were built at different periods. Darrynane, in Irish " Doire Fhionain," means *' St Finan's Oak Wood," and the proper spelling of the present name is Darrynane, St Finan, the patron saint of this part of the country, has been described as "the Sun of Virtue and Sound Doctrine, sending his rays far and near over this island of Saints," and his memory is perpetuated in this lone ruin as well as in the ruined church on the island in Lough Currane, near Waterville, and in " St Finan's Bay " and " St Finan's Glen," all within the area of Ballinskelligs and Darrynane. This abbey was at one time in the occupation of the Austin Canons Regular, and possibly the present pile of buildings was of this later period, occupying the same site as an earlier foundation bearing the name of the saint. Returning past the entrance gates of Darrynane, the road to Caherdaniel may be followed direct along the foot of the hills [2^ m.), or, by ascending the steep incline, by the main road. The latter is rather a roundabout way, but presents the attraction of somewhat more extended views.
Caherdaniel, Caherdaniel consists of a small cluster of houses with a church on a rise over a river, and surrounded by beautiful fuchsia hedges. The village stands at the entrance of a semicircle of hills facing the S., and takes its name from an old

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 63

Castle Gregory and Captain Walter Hussey, 1641

Castlegregory · town · Kerry · 1641

Castle Gregory was the property of Captain Walter Hussey in 1641. He defended the castle against the soldiers of Cromwell but eventually forfeited his possessions, which were granted to one Thomas Welstead.

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Castle Gregory was in 1641 the property of Captain Walter Hussey. He defended the castle against the soldiers of Cromwell, but eventually forfeited his possessions, which were granted to one Thomas Welstead.
Dingle to the Coumanare Lakes, The prospect of an adventure is always attractive and lends additional zest to a mountain climb ; and should the mists come down there is no more likely place to be lost for a time than the tract of mountains which lie between Dingle and the Coumanare Lakes. A walk to these lakes, however, is such a pleasant addition to a visit to Dingle that no apology need be made for recommending it. The old grassy road which starts near the grove in Dingle crosses the main Connor Hill Road i^ m. from the town, and thence going down to the Garfinny River straight from the Connor Hill Pass. A pile of stones near the head of the road marks the place where some hero of old was slain, and near this spot the Garfinny River is reduced to little more than a rivulet trickling down the mountain slope on the R. Turning to the R. along the bank (R.) of this stream a stiff pull up hill leads to a plateau of mossy peat " hags " and slushy valleys, with patches of stones where the rain of centuries has worn away the peat covering. All around is a wild stretch of this rough ground, extending to the top of the cHffs overlooking the <* Pedlar's Lake " and Lough Coumclahane on the N., and to the point of Listorgan Hill (2001 ft.) to the S.E. This plateau is some 2000 ft. over the sea, and here may be found embedded in the

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 88

Currane Duv sea monster from Magharees to Brandon Head

Brandon Head · promontory · Kerry

Local tradition describes a creature called the 'Currane Duv' or 'Black Sow,' fifteen feet long with a mane like a horse, which swims along the coastline from the Magharees to Brandon Head and is a terror to the fishing folk of the district.

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Strange legends hang around this wild and primitive coast connected with unknown monsters of the deep. " It's my belief," said a man one day, " and the belief of many, that there is no animal on land but what has its like in the sea " ; and then he proceeded to tell of a strange creature which goes around the coast-Hne from the Magharees to Brandon Head, and is called by the people the " Currane Duv," or "Black Sow." It has been seen in the memory of man — a large animal, 15 ft. long, " with mane like a horse," a foot in length, which waves in the water as it swims. Sometimes it goes up the river for a short distance, but its chief habitat is the sea, where it is a terror to the fisher folk ! Like the sea-serpent stories, these local traditions grow when recounted on v/inter nights round the
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 88

French privateers and smugglers at Valencia Harbour

near Valencia Island · island or archipelago · Kerry · 1702–1714

During the reign of Queen Anne, Valencia Harbour was much frequented by French privateers who used it as a safe refuge, escaping at one end of the island if English cruisers appeared at the other. The same strategy was later adopted by smugglers on the Kerry coast, and Paul Jones was said to have often put into the harbour.

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The " Protector " built his forts at both ends of Valencia Island to guard the harbour, and the outlines of the earthworks at " Fort Point " may be seen to this day. In the reign of Queen Anne the place was much frequented by French privateers, as it afforded a very safe refuge. By keeping a good lookout the privateer could escape at one end of the island if the English cruiser appeared at the other — a little plan adopted in later days successfully by the daring smugglers who frequented the coast of Kerry. The celebrated Paul Jones is said to have often put into Valencia Harbour. From the Fogher Cliffs it is a stiff climb to reach the summit of Feaghmaan (880 ft.), whence on a clear day the view is unsurpassed. Away to the N. and N.N.W. lie the " Foze Rocks " and the Blasket Islands, outposts of the Empire. That group of irregular-shaped islands, seeming from this point of view huddled together, consists of Innishvickillane and Innishnabro, with
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 75

Ross Castle surrender tradition: ships on the lake

Ross Castle · castle · Kerry

An old tradition held that Ross Castle could never be taken until ships appeared on the lake. When the first boat was seen, the garrison offered to surrender on terms that took a fortnight to draw up.

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An old tradition said that Ross Castle would never be taken till ships s'lould " swim upon the lake." So when the first boat was seen the garrison offered to surrender on terms which took a fortnight to draw up.
In the days of William III. and King James, the forces of the latter held Kerry till August 1 69 1 , and Tralee was again burnt on the approach of General Ginkel. Ginkel ordered Captains Navarre and O'Loughnane, who had ordered the burning, to be hanged. But their lives were saved by the intercession of Colonel Denny. An action near Lixnaw seems to have been the only fighting which took place in Kerry during the Revolution of 1688. After it was all over, there was the attainder of the adherents of King James, and amongst others the Lord Kenmare of the day lost his estates. They were, however, eventually restored, and Kerry settled down to the humdrum life of the 1 8th century. Its chivalrous and romantic history ended with the Stuarts. But somehow when travelling through the county it seems as if the life and spirit of the i6th century were nearer the heart of Kerry than any intervening period.

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 28

Seal-hunting caves on Kenmare River near Derreen

near Kenmare River · bay · Kerry

Trench in his 'Realities of Irish Life' described the exciting and dangerous occupation of seal hunting in caves on the south shore of Kenmare river, not far from Derreen. This limited industry has now ceased.

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observed fishing in lonely lake or stream, but the sight is of rare occurrence. The squirrel and the mole are unknown in Kerry. The common seal is found all round the coast, and a walk along the cliffs by Smerwick or Valencia, or an evening in a boat under the cliffs of Eske, near Dingle, is sure to be rewarded by the sight of a seal. Many years ago, when seals were protected at Derreen, it was a common enough sight to see three or four of these animals lying on the kelpcovered rocks at low tide. But the injury done to the salmon fishing has necessitated interference with this sanctuary. In former days the peasant fisher folk around the coast made money by the capture of young seals in the caves. The flesh boiled down produced a valuable oil, which was much in request. This limited industry has now ceased, and seals have increased in numbers of late years. Mr Trench, in his " Realities of Irish Life," describes this exciting and rather dangerous occupation, and the caves where he lays the scene of his and others exploits are on the S. shore of Kenmare river, not far from Derreen.
Birds, — Chief amongst the birds of Kerry is the golden eagle. He is given the place of honour because, though nowadays hardly ever seen or heard of, on more than one occasion in comparatively recent years the bird and the nest have been met with in Kerry. In 1887 a pair of golden eagles built their nest in the crags of the mountain called " Eagle's Nest," near Killarney. The egg-collecting propensity, which has done such damage to our wild birds, caused the nest to be harried by some unknown person, and the eagles have never returned. About the same time a party when woodcock

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 12

Sir William Drury comes to Tralee in 1579

Tralee · townland · Kerry · 1579

In 1579, Sir William Drury came to Tralee to enforce the writ of Queen Elizabeth in the palatinate of the Earl of Desmond. Eleanor of Desmond besought pardon for the mistake her husband had made in assembling his followers and gave her son as a hostage.

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In deference to legend again it may be stated that Tralee and not Drogheda is said to have been the place where Thomas, 8th Earl of Desmond, was beheaded, and where his retainers the De Veres renounced their Norman name and adopted that of M'Swiney instead, " through hatred and revenge." It was to Tralee in 1579 that Sir William Drury came to make the writ of " good Queen Bess " run in the palatinate of the Earl of Desmond — that great but unfortunate Earl of Desmond whom Sir Henry Sidney described as " a man void of judgment to govern or will to be ruled.'' Sir William
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 85

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Tralee, in 1579, Sir William Drury came to make the writ of Queen Elizabeth run in the palatinate of the Earl of Desmond. Sir Henry Sidney had described that Earl as "a man void of judgment to govern or will to be ruled." There is also a legend that Tralee, not Drogheda, was where Thomas, the 8th Earl of Desmond, was beheaded, and where his retainers the De Veres renounced their Norman name and took the name M'Swiney instead, "through hatred and revenge."

St. Brandon legends and rock imprints near Dingle

Dingle · townland · Kerry

Local country people near Dingle recount legends of St. Brandon, including a tale of his stolen cow. The hand and knee prints of the alleged thief are said to remain visible in roadside rocks, and the saint is credited by some as the first discoverer of America.

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"pilgrim's way/' and the book handed up from hand to hand. Strange as this legend may seem, the learned Society of Antiquarians has asserted that it loses its improbability when the multitude of evidence of a vast community of holy men is found on every side in this district. Other legends of the saint are still to be heard from the country people — legends of St Brandon's cow and the thief who stole it— the prints of whose hand and knee may still be seen in the rocks by the roadside. St Brandon has been named the "Navigator," and it is said that he, and not 4 Columbus, was the first discoverer of America, Sailing away to the N.W. he landed on the shores of the New World, and there met an angel who told him that the time for the conversion of the North American tribes had not yet arrived. So the saint returned. All these legends, and many more besides, which there is no space to recount, can be heard in this district to the present day. ^/ (6) The Cathedral of Kilmalchedor, The "^Z church of St Malchedor, who was a contemporary of St Brandon, is said by some to have been built by the Spaniards ; but this is doubtful. The Romanesque architecture points to the date as being about the 9th century of the Christian era, but probably there was an ecclesiastical structure even before that time. The pillar stone at the W. end of the church is said to be one of the most ancient of monuments, and bears the whole alphabet of the 6th century ini Roman characters, above which is inscribed the? word " Domine." The round-arched, "dogtoothed," western doorway and the Wind arcade with round pillars in the interior of
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 87

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Dingle, the country people still tell legends of St. Brandon. This is what the book calls the pilgrim's way, and the book handed up from hand to hand. Strange as this legend may seem, the learned Society of Antiquarians has asserted that it loses its improbability when the multitude of evidence of a vast community of holy men is found on every side in this district. Other legends of the saint are still to be heard from the country people, legends of St. Brandon's cow and the thief who stole it. The prints of whose hand and knee may still be seen in the rocks by the roadside. St. Brandon has been named the Navigator, and it is said that he, and not Columbus, was the first discoverer of America. Sailing away to the northwest, he landed on the shores of the New World, and there met an angel who told him that the time for the conversion of the North American tribes had not yet arrived. So the saint returned. All these legends, and many more besides, which there is no space to recount, can be heard in this district to the present day. St. Malchedor was a contemporary of St. Brandon, and the Cathedral of Kilmalchedor, the church of St. Malchedor, is said by some to have been built by the Spaniards, but this is doubtful. The Romanesque architecture points to the date as being about the 9th century, but probably there was an ecclesiastical structure even before that time. The pillar stone at the west end of the church is said to be one of the most ancient of monuments, and bears the whole alphabet of the 6th century in Roman characters, above which is inscribed the word Domine. The round-arched, dogtoothed western doorway and the window arcade with round pillars in the interior of the church remain.

Brandon Creek fishing community and Congested Districts Board pier

Brandon Creek · creek · Kerry

Brandon Creek (also called Cloosawithic), at the base of Mount Brandon, is a small fishing settlement of cottages and a store where the Congested Districts Board built a pier. Seventy or eighty canvas-covered canoes used for herring fishing line the creek.

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Leaving Kilmalchedor and all its interesting relics of bye-gone days, the road leads E. and then N. and E. again, past another stone oratory (i m.) similar to that at Gallerus, but in a less perfect state of preservation. At the E. side of the harbour of Smerwick is seen the white coastguard station, and a good view is obtained up Ballydavid Head, crowned by a crumbling tower, one of the many built to watch for the foe in the days of the French wars. About 4 m. from Kilmalchedor this road meets the road leading direct from Dingle to Brandon Creek, or, as it is sometimes called, Cloosawithic. It would be well to turn to the L. at this point, and following the road at the base of Mount Brandon, pay a visit to this creek. A group of fishermen's cottages and a store, where a variety of useful articles can be bought, marks the end of this road. Crossing the sward a few yards brings the visitor to the creek, a deep cleft eaten into the land by the sea. A good pier has been built by the " Congested Districts Board" here, and 70 or 80 "canoes" can be seen turned bottom upwards looking like great black beetles. These canoes are formed of a frail framework of laths covered with tarred canvas, and are most seaworthy craft. On an evening when the herring fishing is in full swing
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Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 87

Dominican abbey of Tralee founded by John of Callan in the 13th century

Tralee · townland · Kerry · 1200–1261

In the 13th century, John of Callan, the Geraldine chief, founded a Dominican monastery in Tralee. After the fatal Battle of Callan in 1261, the Geraldines bore the body of their chief and buried him in the consecrated ground of this church.

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town was one of the chief strongholds of the great Earl of Desmond, and near those narrow streets where children wrangle once stood a fair abbey ^ of White Friars, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin. But though to the outward eye there is little or nothing to bring back the past, there is a gallant history attached to the town of Tralee. It was near this town that St Brandon was born in 484, of the race of Ciar ; here, in the 1 3th century, John of Callan, the Geraldine chief, founded the Dominican monastery. To this church, in 1 26 1 , after the fatal Battle of Callan, the Geraldines bore the body of their chief and buried him in the consecrated ground. Maurice FitzGerald, the eldest son of "John of Callan," who had married a daughter of Geoffrey de Marisco, at one time Lord Deputy, was also slain in the same battle and buried with his father in the Abbey Church of Tralee.
In 1296, Thomas FitzGerald, the ancestor of a long line of Desmond chiefs, was buried in this abbey. The present " Square '' is supposed to be the site of the cloisters of the ancient monastic building which seems with fluctuating fortune to have existed down to the reign of James II. It gave its martyrs to the Church, and amongst the number was the prior, who in 1653 refused to leave Ireland, and was condemned to the scaffold. He met his death "right manfully" in Killarney, saying with his last breath, "Into Thy hands. Lord, I commit my spirit."

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 85

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, near Tralee, stood a fair abbey of White Friars, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin. The streets have changed, and there is little or nothing left to bring back the past. But this place has a gallant history. St Brandon was born near this town in 484, of the race of Ciar. Here in the 13th century, John of Callan, the Geraldine chief, founded a Dominican monastery. In 1261, after the fatal Battle of Callan, the Geraldines bore the body of their chief and buried him in the consecrated ground of this church. His eldest son, Maurice FitzGerald, who had married a daughter of Geoffrey de Marisco, at one time Lord Deputy, was also slain in the same battle and buried with his father in the abbey church. In 1296, Thomas FitzGerald, the ancestor of a long line of Desmond chiefs, was buried in this abbey too. The present square is supposed to stand on the site of the cloisters of the ancient monastic building, which seems with fluctuating fortune to have existed down to the reign of James II. The abbey gave its martyrs to the Church. Among them was the prior, who in 1653 refused to leave Ireland and was condemned to the scaffold. He met his death right manfully in Killarney, saying with his last breath, "Into Thy hands, Lord, I commit my spirit."

Frontier castles from Killorglin to Killaha

Killaha · townland · Kerry

A line of castles from Killorglin to Killaha guarded the frontier formed by the Flesk, Killarney Lake, and the Laune River between the lowlands and the highlands of Desmond. Dunloe guarded the Gap pass, Killaha guarded the entrance to Robbers' Glen and Glen Flesk, and most were probably held by those owing allegiance to MacCarthy More.

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Killorglin and Ballymalis guarded the shallows over the river Laune by which a foe could cross from Iveragh to Castlemaine. Dunloe guarded the pass through the Gap of Dunloe, whilst Killaha, once in the possession of the " O'Donoghues of the Glen," guarded the entrance to the " Robbers' Glen " and the wild Glen Flesk, and held one of the main approaches to the Kenmare district where O'Sullivan More held sway. Most of these castles, if not all of them, were probably held by those who owed allegiance to the powerful chief Mac- Carthy More.
Killarney to Loo Bridge by the Pass of Crohane. The expedition from Killarney to the glen of Keppoch has been mentioned already in this Guide. But there is another journey in the same district which possesses many attractions. Lough Guitane lies S.E. of Killarney 4 m., and a row of i|^ m. across the lake brings the traveller to the mouth of the Cappagh River, which flows from the glen of Keppoch (or Cappagh). The graceful pointed mountain on the S.E. side of the lake is Crohane (2102 ft.). Between this

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 48

Ruined church of St Finan on Church Island, Lough Currane

Church Island · island or archipelago · Kerry

Church Island in Lough Currane holds the ruined church and cell of St Finan, a Romanesque church with a round arched doorway and well-preserved mouldings. Inside is a rude carved figure of a man playing an instrument, and old crosses with Celtic inscriptions serve as tombstones to the present day.

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which means the " Oak Grove of St Finan." The church is Romanesque, with a round, arched doorway and mouldings in a good state of preservation. This style of architecture is not necessarily Norman. It was introduced into Ireland before the Norman conquest, and is probably, as to date, coeval with the round, arched Saxon architecture found in England. In many cases these Romanesque churches replaced, almost on the same spot, churches of a ruder style of architecture, thus carrying on the continuity of tradition connected with a particular locality. The old crosses graven on great slabs of stone, and used as tombstones to the present day, should be specially noticed. The Celtic inscriptions are clearly cut, and can possibly be read and interpreted by students of that language. Inside the little, ruined church is preserved the rude carved figure of a man playing some instrument of music. It seems as if there had been a large number of buildings at one time on this island for foundations, and here and there a defined enclosure appears everywhere amidst the rank grass which clothes the ground.
Lough Currane stretches far into the deep Glenmore, and a stream joins it at the head coming from the smaller Lough Isknagaheny or Coppul Lake. The main feeder of the lake, however, is the Cummeragh River, which, rising in the Derryana and Cloonaghlin lakes, flows S.W. to join Lough Currane at its northern end.

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 60

Seal sanctuary at Derreen and peasant seal-hunting

Derreen · townland · Kerry

Seals were formerly protected at Derreen, where they could be seen lying on kelp-covered rocks at low tide. The sanctuary was interfered with due to injury to salmon fishing. Peasant fisher folk around the coast once made money capturing young seals in caves, boiling the flesh down for valuable oil.

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observed fishing in lonely lake or stream, but the sight is of rare occurrence. The squirrel and the mole are unknown in Kerry. The common seal is found all round the coast, and a walk along the cliffs by Smerwick or Valencia, or an evening in a boat under the cliffs of Eske, near Dingle, is sure to be rewarded by the sight of a seal. Many years ago, when seals were protected at Derreen, it was a common enough sight to see three or four of these animals lying on the kelpcovered rocks at low tide. But the injury done to the salmon fishing has necessitated interference with this sanctuary. In former days the peasant fisher folk around the coast made money by the capture of young seals in the caves. The flesh boiled down produced a valuable oil, which was much in request. This limited industry has now ceased, and seals have increased in numbers of late years. Mr Trench, in his " Realities of Irish Life," describes this exciting and rather dangerous occupation, and the caves where he lays the scene of his and others exploits are on the S. shore of Kenmare river, not far from Derreen.
Birds, — Chief amongst the birds of Kerry is the golden eagle. He is given the place of honour because, though nowadays hardly ever seen or heard of, on more than one occasion in comparatively recent years the bird and the nest have been met with in Kerry. In 1887 a pair of golden eagles built their nest in the crags of the mountain called " Eagle's Nest," near Killarney. The egg-collecting propensity, which has done such damage to our wild birds, caused the nest to be harried by some unknown person, and the eagles have never returned. About the same time a party when woodcock

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 12

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Derreen, there used to be a sanctuary for seals. The common seal is found all round the coast of Kerry. A walk along the cliffs by Smerwick or Valencia, or an evening in a boat under the cliffs of Eske near Dingle, is sure to be rewarded by the sight of one. Many years ago, when seals were protected here at Derreen, it was a common enough sight to see three or four of these animals lying on the kelp-covered rocks at low tide. But the injury done to the salmon fishing has necessitated interference with this sanctuary. In former days the peasant fisher folk around the coast made money by the capture of young seals in the caves. The flesh boiled down produced a valuable oil, which was much in request. This limited industry has now ceased, and seals have increased in numbers of late years. Mr Trench, in his "Realities of Irish Life," describes this exciting and rather dangerous occupation, and the caves where he lays the scene of his and others' exploits are on the south shore of Kenmare river, not far from Derreen. So what you are passing through was once a place where seals were left alone, watched lying out on the rocks, until the salmon fishermen could no longer tolerate what the seals were costing them.

Black Earl of Ormond devastates Corkaguiny, 1580

Corkaguiny · barony · Kerry · 1580

Early in 1580 the 'Black' Earl of Ormond sent columns through Iveragh and the Slieve Mish Mountains into the fertile barony of Corkaguiny, burning crops and driving cattle to Ventry. The country was left desolate with ruined houses, homeless people, and corpses marking his track.

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One column swept down the Iveragh side of Dingle Bay as far as Valencia, whilst two columns, one to the N. and the other to the S. of the Slieve Mish Mountains, operated in the fertile barony of Corkaguiny, burning and destroying the crops, and driving all the cattle to Ventry. The country was left desolate. Ruined houses, homeless people, and stark corpses of defeated kernes marked the track of the " Black Earl." This was early in the year 1580; and as if this raid of the " Thierna Duhh " was not enough trouble, eight hundred Spaniards and Italians must needs land at Smerwick with Dr Saunders and a consecrated banner. Having established themselves at Fort Del Ore on the shores of Smerwick Harbour, they raised the hopes of the Geraldine clan, and soon the war cry, " Papa aboo," announced them in rebellion once more.
Lord Grey de Wilton, the new Viceroy, fresh from his defeat in Glenmalure, County Wicklow, came swiftly to Kerry, and with him came Walter Raleigh, then a captain in the queen's service, and Edmund Spenser, who afterwards wrote the Faery Queen, and Edward Denny — ^' Ned Denny," of

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 23

Way of the Cross on Skellig Michael

near Skellig Rock Great · townland · Kerry

The pathway and rude stone stairs leading to the summit of Skellig Michael are believed to have formed a 'Way of the Cross' for pilgrims in old days, with weather-beaten upright stones resembling crosses visible against the sky.

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In spring and summer the whole place is alive with birds, which are tame through the protection of years. The pathway and rude stone stairs, which lead to the summit of the Skellig Michael, seem to have formed the " Way of the Cross " for pilgrims in old days, and weather-beaten, worn, upright stones appear to this day to represent the form of crosses standing out against sky and sea, keeping still the memories connected with this once holy isle.
A strange story is sometimes to be heard in the neighbouring mainland of music which is said to issue from the monastery at night time. Many years ago a custom prevailed in Kerry of issuing what was called a " Skelligs List," containing the names of the young men and maidens who had not married at " Shrove Tide." Should a young person not be married by Shrove Tuesday, he or she was said to " go to the Skelligs." The origin of this saying was probably due to the following fact. When the Roman computation of Easter, introduced to the Western Church by St Hilary, found its way to Ireland in the yth century, Munster at once accepted it. More of the out-of-the-way places, however, adhered for a long time to the old Celtic method of computing the time of the Paschal Feast, and amongst these places the Skellig Michael.

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 78

Dunmore Head and Gaelic-speaking Dunquin

near Dunquin · parish · Kerry

Dunmore Head is described as the extreme western point of the mainland of Ireland. The nearby village of Dunquin, where people speak Gaelic in the cottages, is called 'the next parish to America' in the language of the district.

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At Dunmore Head the traveller stands on the extreme western point of the mainland of Ireland. Dunquin, the little village where the people speak Gaelic in the cottages, is the "next parish to America," in the language of the district. Onwards the road winds, crossing here and there a mountain streamlet, or dipping down some steep " coum," till Clogher Head is reached, and a good view is obtained of Innistooskert, lying out on the sea, and the Tearaght, almost on the horizon. The road trends E. from Clogher Head, and gives good views of Sybil Head and the *« Three Sisters," and in the far distance Smerwick Harbour, beyond which rises Ballydavid Head and the imposing height of Brandon.
Ballyferriter village, sheltering under Marhin Mountain, is the place from which to make an expedition to Fort del Ore, situated on the W. shore of Smerwick Harbour, and distant about 2 m. from Ballyferriter village. A fair road leads towards the sands of Smerwick, and bicycles can be left in a neighbouring cottage as the road ends in the sands. A flat bit of bog land, rich in summer time with a wealth of wild flowers, lies between Ballyferriter

Internet Archive kerry00cran, Chapter 87

Kerry

The stories, best first

Fort del Ore: the 1580 Smerwick massacre

Pedlar's Lake and the murdered traveller near Annascaul

The Priest's Leap legend of penal-law escape

Ballyheige Castle and the Golden Lyon silver robbery

Glenbeg cove as legendary landing place of Partholan

Legend of Curoi, Blanaid and Caherconree fortress

Darrynane, home of O'Connell's grandson and smugglers' harbour

Colonel David Crosbie's siege at Ballingarry, 1641

Siege of Tralee Castle by Confederate Irish forces

Sir Nicholas Browne of Molahiffe and the O'Sullivan property

Tempul na Cuillah prehistoric standing stones near Waterville

Cove of the Branches and Partholan's signalling legend

Dingle's historic Spanish trade and royal charters

Legends of Skellig Michael: Ir, Daire, Eitgall, Olaf

Speaking seal legend at Kilshannig

Desmond castle in Tralee and the ape legend

Florence MacCarthy's secret marriage in Killarney church

Glencar as MacCarthy More territory

Lixnaw Castle besieged by Wilmot, 1602

Pirate ship York wrecked in Magharee Channel

Prophecy fulfilled: boats on Lough Leane break Ross Castle siege, 1652

Spanish Armada wreck in Blasket Sound, 1588

Caherdaniel's old caher compared to Staigue and Caher Gal

Gallerus Castle and the dying FitzGerald's last gaze

Giraldus Cambrensis on the miraculous wine stone of Skellig Michael

O'Donoghue legend of Tir-nan-Oge beneath Killarney Lake

O'Donoghue legend: Tir-nan-Oge and the white horse over Lough Leane

Siege of Tralee Castle under Sir Thomas Harris

Thomas, 8th Earl of Desmond, said to have been beheaded at Tralee

Castle Cove village and its unfinished tower legend

Ardea Castle ruin and the Killarney prophecy

Burning of Tralee in the Williamite War

Butler salmon weir granted by charter of King John

Clough-na-Cuddy: Father Cuddy's praying stone with medicinal waters

Desmond's raid on the Lord of Lixnaw, 1576

Dominican prior of Tralee executed in Killarney, 1653

Finglas River and the milk-flood signal

Golden eagles nested at Eagle's Nest near Killarney, 1887

Kerry 'Skelligs List' marriage custom

Kilmalkedar Cathedral and its ancient monuments

Maurice Stack treacherously murdered at Beale Castle

Mermaid wife legend at Kilshannig

Muckross Abbey founded 1440 by Donal MacCarthy More

Rahinane Castle, burnt by Sir Charles Wilmot, 1601

Ruined abbey of St Finan on Abbey Island

Castle Gregory and Captain Walter Hussey, 1641

Currane Duv sea monster from Magharees to Brandon Head

French privateers and smugglers at Valencia Harbour

Ross Castle surrender tradition: ships on the lake

Seal-hunting caves on Kenmare River near Derreen

Sir William Drury comes to Tralee in 1579

St. Brandon legends and rock imprints near Dingle

Brandon Creek fishing community and Congested Districts Board pier

Dominican abbey of Tralee founded by John of Callan in the 13th century

Frontier castles from Killorglin to Killaha

Ruined church of St Finan on Church Island, Lough Currane

Seal sanctuary at Derreen and peasant seal-hunting

Black Earl of Ormond devastates Corkaguiny, 1580

Way of the Cross on Skellig Michael

Dunmore Head and Gaelic-speaking Dunquin