Kerry Archaeological Magazine (Volume I)

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

1. The Massacre of Smerwick

   Smerwick · townland · Kerry

   De Grey and Ormond laid siege to the camp at Smerwick, which was yielded up after three days. The Spanish garrison was disarmed and then brutally massacred, with around six hundred Spaniards killed.

   Read the passage

   taking his stand at the head of the cavalry on the hill, ordered the footmen to enter and cut up Baltinglass and his followers to a man. The glen was thickly wooded and winding irregularly between steep hills, the ground rocky and uneven, and in places swampy. Everything was still as death when the soldiers entered. They marched gallantly through every obstacle until they reached the middle of the Glen. Suddenly from all sides the Irish, in ambush, delivered a charge into the struggling body, and then another, and another. Con¬ fusion and disorder followed; not an effort at resistance; and two-thirds of De Grey's entire force lay corpses in the Glen. “The rebels/' says Richard Cox, “being well acquainted with these woods, laid their ambushes so cunningly, that the English could neither fight in that divelish place, nor retire out of it.” “ De Grey, who had waited the event upon a neighbouring eminence,” says Leland, “returned, with the remains of his forces, to the seat of government, covered with confusion and dis¬ honour.” Stung by this disaster, De Grey determined by deeds of daring to overshadow, if not efface, the memory of Glenmalure. Proceeding by Limerick, he appeared before the camp at Smerwick on the 7th November. Admiral Winter had come from Kinsale and was in the Harbour; De Grey and Ormond were in joint command by land. Elaborate preparations were made by De Grey, as a vigorous defence was expected. But the commander, Sebastian San Joseph, was a traitor and a coward. He delivered up the place on the third day after scarcely the appearance of a struggle. All the Irish annalists of that time declare the fort was yielded up “on conditions.” Whether so or not, there followed the butchery known in history as “ the massacre of Smerwick.” The Spaniards were disarmed, and then an armed band was led into the camp, and the place was made a shambles with the mangled corpses of six hundred Spaniards,

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2. Pelham's march through Castleisland and capture of Desmond's cattle

   Castleisland · town · Kerry · 1580

   On 17 July 1580 Pelham marched through McAuley's country in Duhallow, destroying everything with fire, reaching Kilcusnan two miles east of Castleisland. The next day he took 1500 head of Desmond's cattle being driven towards the hills and nearly captured the Earl, the Countess, and Dr. Saunders.

   Read the passage

   the Countess, and Dr. Saunders. “On the 18th thence to Castle Magne, where we camped that night tp the great comfort of the Ward, who was kept in close by the traytors and a certain sept of the Erie’s followers dwelling on the river Mange called the O’Moriarties.” On the 19th they encamped at Inch, “ where my Lord Justice and I did practice our best skill to gather cockles for our supper.” On the 20th reached Dingle. 21st they visited Fort del Ore. “ James of Desmond did cut a neck of the rock from the mainland, to make it the stronger, it lieth equal with the mainland having a hole, with grete labour, digged into it.” They went on board the fleet, where they “ had grete entertainment,” and sent a pinnace from the fleet to Castle Magne with supplies. The 23rd they returned to Castle Magne, where they “found the pynace of the victuals at the Castle syde, and the master, which guided her thither, told my Lord Justice that he had sounded the channel, and durst undertake to bring a ship of 100 tons within a stone’s cast of the Castel; and, truly, it is built on a notable place to rule both the counties of Kerry and Desmond, on both sides of the river of Mange.” They stay two days at the Castle. On the 26th, “ after storing Castle-Magne with victuals, we marched thence towards Cork—and camped that night by the fair river of Laune, between ‘ the Palace/ one of Clancartie’s chief houses, and Dunlogh, a house of O’Sullivan More’s razed by the Erie of Ormond.” Pelham was evidently anxious to make amends for his past neglect of the Ward at the Castle, for on his return from Dingle to Castle Magne on the 24th July, he writes to Sir Henry Wallop: “Send to Castle Magne 25 tuns of Gascon wine and sack and biscuit. The soldiers have no bread, drink, hose or shoes, or money to buy them.” On the same day, and from the Castle, he wrote to the Mayor of Galway, about whom he has clearly heard some unpleasant tales. He had already ordered this same Mayor to send a supply of provisions to the Castle. Wine and beer went

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3. Penal-era Mass at Tobar na Molt and miraculous wethers

   Tobernamult · well · Kerry

   A local legend tells of priests saying Mass at the old altar by Tobar na Molt during penal times, when soldiers and bloodhounds attacked. Three wethers leapt from the well to lure the dogs away, and a chase ran five Irish miles to Ath Caoraig, where the wethers vanished into the ground at the moment of blessing.

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   ‘ the bloodhounds , 9 and sure enough, in another minute they came leaping down the slope towards the altar, with their red tongues hanging out between their teeth; and there were the soldiers rising over the ridge behind them. Not one of the priests so much as cast a glance their way, or had any appearance of hearing anything, but all went on with the Mass as quietly as if they were in St. Peter’s itself; and of all the people on their knees, every one was afraid to let the first stir out of him; only you could hear the women sobbing. But now when the dogs were drawing close, up out of the well, just under their ugly noses, there leapt three wethers and set scampering off towards the north, like a lunatic making for Gleann-na-nGealt. But if it was for pleasure they began the running, it was for need they continued; for the dogs were soon making grabs at their woolly sterns; and behind the dogs galloped the soldiers, and the justices of the peace—queer justices, and the sheriffs with them : and the wethers kept screeching and the dogs yelling and the soldiers shouting themselves crazy, and such a hunt Finn Mac Cumhall himself never made; over dykes and ditches, over hard and soft, over high and low, five Irish miles to Ath Caoraig; where on a sudden, and just as the priest at the well was giving the people the blessing, the wethers disappeared into the ground; like

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4. Young Earl's tumultuous reception at Kilmallock

   Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1600

   The young Earl of Desmond visited Kilmallock, the great stronghold of his family, where huge crowds filled the streets to welcome him with wheat and salt. By the next day, after he attended church against the people's wishes, he was spat upon and ridiculed, and the crowd deserted him.

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   The young Earl soon went to Kilmallock, the great stronghold of his family, the President being anxious to test the feelings of his followers and kindred regarding him. He was accompanied by Meyler McGrath and Master Boyle, Clerk of the Council; and the latter was ordered by Carew to observe and note how the people acted towards him. They arrived there on a Saturday, in the evening. “There was a mighty concourse of people in so much as all the streets, doores, and windows, yea, the very gutters and tops of the houses were so filled with them as if they came to see him, whom God had sent to be that Comfort and Delight their souls and hearts most desired, and they welcomed him with all the expressions and signs of joy, everyone throwing upon him wheat and salt (as a prediction of future peace and plenty). . . The confluence of people that

   flocked thither was so great, as in half an hour he could not make his passage through the crowd. . . . The

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5. Naval battle at Dundalk rescues Callaghan from Danes

   Dundalk · town · Louth

   Donogh Mac Keeffe led a Munster army to Dundalk where the captives were found confined aboard a Danish vessel. The Munster fleet under Admiral Failbhe Fionn arrived and engaged the Danes in a fierce naval battle, rescuing Callaghan, though the admiral lost his life.

   Read the passage

   the command of Sitric, the son of Turgesius. This General, by advice of his Council, sent a messenger to Callaghan to notify his strong desire for peace and a good understanding between their respective nation¬ alities. He offered to enter into an offensive and defensive alliance with Callaghan; and, as an earnest of his good intentions, undertook to send suitable hostages. He also offered to let Callaghan have his sister Bevionn in marriage. But his real intention was, by treachery, to get Callaghan into his hands, and murder him and his retinue. Sitric communicated this plot to Donogh, son of Flann Siona, who commanded, and encouraged it. Callaghan fell into the trap laid for him, all the more easily as he was transported with joy at the idea of a marriage with Bevionn, the fame of whose beauty had reached his ears. He therefore accepted Sitric’s invita¬ tion, and set out for Dublin with a large retinue. But on arriving near the city he was surrounded by an armed force of Danes; and, in spite of a gallant resistance on the part of his retinue, he and Dunchaun, the son of Kennedy, who accompanied him, were seized and carried off as captives to Armagh. Kennedy, on hearing of the capture of Callaghan, and of his own son, was furious. He forthwith set to work to assemble a large force for the rescue of the captives. The command of the army was entrusted to the brave General, Donogh Mac Keeffe, Prince of Fearmuighe. (*) Murtagh, son of Glanduff, Callaghan’s old adversary, sent secret intelligence to Armagh of the approach of the Momonian army. Consequently, when the latter reached Armagh they found that Callaghan and Dunchuan had been removed from the castle where they had been in confine¬ ment, and conveyed back to Sitric, who sent them on ship board. Donogh Mac Keeffe and his army marched into Dundalk, and, on reaching that place, discovered that the captives were confined on board one of the vessels of the Danish Fleet, then near Dundalk, and that

   (6) The modern Fermoy in Co. Cork.

   Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 67

6. Baptism of Aongus at the Royal Palace of Cashel

   Cashel · town · Tipperary · 448

   In 448 Aongus, son of Nadfraoch and first Christian King of Munster, was instructed in the Christian faith and baptised by St. Patrick at the Royal Palace of Cashel. The event created such an impression that many of the Munster nobility were led to embrace the faith.

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   Aongus (or Aeneas), son of Nadfraoch, son of Core, was the first Christian King of Munster. About the year 432 St. Patrick began to propagate the Christian faith in Ireland. Aongus, hearing of the Apostle’s success, arranged a meeting with him at Magh Feimhin. He invited the Saint to take up his residence in the Royal Palace at Cashel. This was in A.D. 448. It was in this palace that Aongus was instructed by St. Patrick in the Christian faith, and ultimately baptised by him. This created such an impression that many of the nobility were led to embrace the faith. A curious incident is related in connection with the baptism of Aongus. Ip

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   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Cashel, this town holds the site of the Royal Palace where, in 448, Aongus, son of Nadfraoch, was baptised by St. Patrick. Aongus was the first Christian King of Munster. Around 432, Patrick had begun to spread the Christian faith in Ireland. Aongus, hearing of the Apostle's success, arranged a meeting with him at Magh Feimhin. He invited the Saint to take up residence in the Royal Palace at Cashel. It was there that Aongus was instructed by Patrick in the Christian faith and ultimately baptised by him. The event created such an impression that many of the Munster nobility were led to embrace the faith.

7. Battle of Callan near Kilgarvan, 1261

   Kilgarvan · townland · Kerry · 1261

   In 1261, the MacCarthys under Finghin Ragh-na-Roin inflicted a major defeat on the Geraldines and their allies at Callan in the barony of Glenarough, near Kilgarvan. Eight barons and fifteen knights fell, including John FitzThomas and Barrymore.

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   so that, in time, the whole of Munster became dotted with these fortresses. The Fitzgeralds, in this way, acquired a very strong position. This position, at the period with which we are now dealing, was further reinforced by the accession of the King’s Deputy, Lord Justice Sir William Denn. In addition to this they secured the alliance of Donal Roe MacCarthy, who, as already stated, had married a Fitzmaurice. This power¬ ful force was opposed by the main body of the Mac- Carthys, headed by three sons of Donall Gott, namely Finghin of Ragh-na-Roin, Cormac of Mangerton, and Donal Maol. They came into conflict at a place called Callan, in the barony of Glenarough, and within a short distance of Kilgarvan, where the MacCarthys inflicted a signal defeat on the Geraldines and their allies. The Four Masters recount that in this battle fell “8 barons and 15 knights besides others of the English nobles, as also John Fitzthomas and Barrymore. ,,1 They add that Finghin was afterwards killed by the English. According to the Annals of Innisfallen, he was killed by Miles Cogan and the De Courceys, at the castle of Rinn Roin, near Kinsale, from which place he derived his historical agnomen. From all accounts he seems to have been the greatest hero of the Eugenian line that appeared since the Norman invasion.

   The battle of Mangerton took place a year after thai of Callan. This is what the Four Masters say about it: “An Army was led by Mac William Burke, and the English of Ireland, into Desmond against Mac¬ Carthy, and arrived at Mangartach of Loch Lein. There Gerald Roche, who was said to have been the third best knight of his time in Ireland, was slain by MacCarthy. This was a triumph without joy to Desmond, for Cormac, son of Donall Gott MacCarthy, was slain. In¬ deed both the English and the Irish suffered great loss about the Mangartach Mountains on that day.” It

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8. Callaghan captured by Danes near Dublin

   Dublin · city · Dublin

   Callaghan accepted Sitric's invitation to travel to Dublin for a proposed marriage with Bevionn, but on arriving near the city he was surrounded by an armed force of Danes. He and Dunchaun, son of Kennedy, were seized and carried off as captives.

   Read the passage

   the command of Sitric, the son of Turgesius. This General, by advice of his Council, sent a messenger to Callaghan to notify his strong desire for peace and a good understanding between their respective nation¬ alities. He offered to enter into an offensive and defensive alliance with Callaghan; and, as an earnest of his good intentions, undertook to send suitable hostages. He also offered to let Callaghan have his sister Bevionn in marriage. But his real intention was, by treachery, to get Callaghan into his hands, and murder him and his retinue. Sitric communicated this plot to Donogh, son of Flann Siona, who commanded, and encouraged it. Callaghan fell into the trap laid for him, all the more easily as he was transported with joy at the idea of a marriage with Bevionn, the fame of whose beauty had reached his ears. He therefore accepted Sitric’s invita¬ tion, and set out for Dublin with a large retinue. But on arriving near the city he was surrounded by an armed force of Danes; and, in spite of a gallant resistance on the part of his retinue, he and Dunchaun, the son of Kennedy, who accompanied him, were seized and carried off as captives to Armagh. Kennedy, on hearing of the capture of Callaghan, and of his own son, was furious. He forthwith set to work to assemble a large force for the rescue of the captives. The command of the army was entrusted to the brave General, Donogh Mac Keeffe, Prince of Fearmuighe. (*) Murtagh, son of Glanduff, Callaghan’s old adversary, sent secret intelligence to Armagh of the approach of the Momonian army. Consequently, when the latter reached Armagh they found that Callaghan and Dunchuan had been removed from the castle where they had been in confine¬ ment, and conveyed back to Sitric, who sent them on ship board. Donogh Mac Keeffe and his army marched into Dundalk, and, on reaching that place, discovered that the captives were confined on board one of the vessels of the Danish Fleet, then near Dundalk, and that

   (6) The modern Fermoy in Co. Cork.

   Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 67

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Dublin, you are near the place where Callaghan was captured by Danes in the time of Sitric, son of Turgesius. Sitric sent a messenger to Callaghan offering peace, an alliance, suitable hostages, and his sister Bevionn in marriage. But his real intention was treachery. He meant to get Callaghan into his hands and murder him and his retinue. Sitric communicated this plot to Donogh, son of Flann Siona, who encouraged it. Callaghan fell into the trap. He was, as the record says, transported with joy at the idea of a marriage with Bevionn, the fame of whose beauty had reached his ears. He accepted Sitric's invitation and set out for Dublin with a large retinue. On arriving near the city he was surrounded by an armed force of Danes. In spite of gallant resistance by his retinue, he and Dunchaun, the son of Kennedy, who accompanied him, were seized and carried off as captives to Armagh. Kennedy, on hearing of the capture of Callaghan and of his own son, was furious. He assembled a large force and entrusted command to Donogh Mac Keeffe, Prince of Fearmuighe. But Murtagh, son of Glanduff, Callaghan's old adversary, sent secret intelligence to Armagh about the approaching army. When the army reached Armagh they found Callaghan and Dunchuan had been removed and conveyed back to Sitric, who sent them on shipboard. Donogh Mac Keeffe and his army marched into Dundalk and discovered the captives were confined on board one of the vessels of the Danish fleet near Dundalk.

9. Carew's murder charge in Dublin streets

   Dublin · city · Dublin · 1599–1600

   Sir George Carew, later appointed President of Munster, was charged with stabbing a man named Owen O'Nassie in cold blood at a public meeting in the streets of Dublin. A jury of the Pale declared him guilty of wilful murder, but he escaped to England and was never brought to justice.

   Read the passage

   It is difficult to understand how such a man could hold a Commission under Her Majesty. He had come prominently before the Irish public at least once already —when he was charged with stabbing a man in cold blood at a public meeting in the streets of Dublin. He made his escape with his fellow-assassins to England; but at the inquest a jury of the Pale declared him guilty of the wilful murder of Owen O’Nassie, and characterized the crime as peculiarly savage and daring. Still he was never brought to justice, and after seven years the announcement was made that Her Majesty, by Letters Patent, had appointed Sir George Carew President of Munster, with the commission to suppress the rebellion in that province. He entered on his charge on 24th April, 1600. A difficult task lay before him, but what a capable, unscrupulous commander could do, he might be relied on to achieve. He has given an account of his doings in Ireland in “ Pacata Hibernia,” and to this day the work is accepted as a truthful record. Alas! it is mostly from unfriendly pens like this the world knows our history.

   After some months in Cork, Carew made a tour through Munster, retaking Glin, Carrigafoyle, Listowel and other castles, but turned aside from Castle Magne, about which, however, he was not indifferent. He saw from the start that James FitzThomas was his great difficulty; and one of two things must be done, either to remove him or set up a rival. The rival was ready to hand in James, the son of Gerald, of Glounaneenta, now in the Tower; and Carew entreated the Privy Council to get Elizabeth to send James over to Ireland restored in blood and title. The idea was hateful to Elizabeth; it conjured up visions of a new Desmond Rebellion to her mind. The costly and protracted struggle with Desmond, his father, and the loss of so many lives, was still fresh in her remembrance. Still, yielding to the importunities of Cecil and Carew, she

   Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 51

   As the companion tells it

   Dublin ahead, a city whose streets once saw a killing that went unpunished. In 1599 or thereabouts, Sir George Carew stabbed a man in cold blood at a public meeting in the streets of this city. The man was Owen O'Nassie. Carew fled to England with his fellow-assassins. An inquest was held, and a jury of the Pale declared him guilty of wilful murder. They called the crime peculiarly savage and daring. But he was never brought to justice. Seven years later, Her Majesty appointed him President of Munster by Letters Patent, with a commission to suppress the rebellion in that province. He took up the charge on the 24th of April, 1600. The writer of this account wonders how such a man could hold a Commission under Her Majesty at all. He notes that Carew gave his own account of his doings in Ireland in a book called Pacata Hibernia, and that to this day the work is accepted as a truthful record. The writer calls it mostly from unfriendly pens like this that the world knows our history. Carew, he says, was a capable, unscrupulous commander, and what such a man could do, he might be relied on to achieve.

10. Desmond comes from Castleisland to take possession

    Castleisland · town · Kerry

    After the surprise of Castle Magne, the Earl of Desmond, who had been in Castleisland, arrived quickly and took formal possession of the castle, appointing his own Constable and Ward.

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    On the night of the 24th December, the Ward have retired to rest, and the careful Vice-Constable has seen to the gates. After midnight thirty men march quietly up to the gate of the castle. Instantly a figure appears within and cautiously unlocks the inner gate, and next un¬ locks the outer gate. The thirty men enter quickly and take possession of every passage and room in the castle. The guard are overpowered and secured. Dominic Miagh is dragged from his bed, and his hands and feet are bound in heavy chains, and next morning Desmond’s flag floats proudly from the battlements. Word is sent to the prior of Ifrllagha close by, and he and his brethren come and offer a Mass of Thanksgiving on that Christmas morning, that its rightful Catholic owner is once more master of Castle Magne. Desmond, who had been in Castleisland, comes quickly on the scene. He takes formal possession of the place, and appoints his Constable and Ward. Andrew Herbert and his men are kept prisoners in the castle for some days, and finally discharged. Dominic Miagh is sent to c Ballingown Castle, and after a fortnight is tried by the Earl of Desmond and condemned to be hanged. The Countess Clancarthy, Desmond’s sister, happens to be at the castle on a visit to her brother when Miagh is brought out for execution. The Countess comes forward and pleads for his pardon. Pardon is granted, and Dominic Miagh goes forth from the castle free once more.

    The surprise or betrayal of Castle Magne caused much irritation in England, and a Government Inquiry into the case was held the following year. The principal testimony seems to be that of Dominic Miagh, which I here give, as copied from a document in the State Paper Office. The

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11. Tadg's Punch Bowl at Togher castle

    Togher · townland · Cork · 1618–1641

    A local tradition recounts that Tadg-an-Duna, seeing his thirsty men drinking from the river near Togher castle, ordered his steward to empty casks of wine into a still pool between two rocks. The spot became known as Tadg's 'Punch Bowl,' and the fish and water rats reportedly became blind drunk.

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    It is recounted that one day some of his people arrived at Togher with a large booty of beeves and sheep, seized during a predatory excursion into O’Sullivan Beare’s country, and having safely housed them were on their way home. Just a little way off they stretched themselves on the river bank and began to drink of the running stream. Tadg, just returned from hunting, saw them from an upper window of the castle, and called out to them to desist. He ordered his steward to bring out some casks of his best wine and empty them into the still water of a portion of the river lying between the ledges of two projecting rocks—since known as Tadg’s “Punch Bowl.” Here the thirsty kerne drank themselves into a helpless state of inebriety; even the fishes, including the eels and the 'water rats, became blind drunk!

    Tadg’s extravagance was unbounded. Anything he

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12. Ogham stones removed from burial ground near Cahirciveen

    Cahersiveen · town · Kerry

    A burial ground near Cahirciveen contained two pillar stones with Ogham inscriptions, which were removed and sent to Dublin by the principal of the Christian Brothers' establishment in Cahirciveen. The day after their removal, several cattle on the lands died mysteriously, prompting such an outcry from neighbouring farmers that one stone was brought back and restored upside down.

    Read the passage

    Note—Since the above was written the tenant of the lands has informed me that in his predecessor’s time, “over forty years ago,” there were two pillar stones standing close together in the graveyards, both with Ogham inscriptions; that they were both removed and sent to Dublin by the then principal of the Christian Brothers’ establishment in Cahirciveen. The day after their removal several cattle on the lands died mysteriously, and so great an outcry was raised by the neighbouring farmers, that one of the stones was brought back and restored to its original site, but upside down, which accounts for the cross being half buried in the ground. My informant could give no information about the building marked as “Old Mill” on ordnance sheet.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 71

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Cahirciveen in Kerry, there is a burial ground nearby that once held two pillar stones standing close together, both bearing Ogham inscriptions. Over forty years ago, they were both removed and sent to Dublin by the then principal of the Christian Brothers' establishment. The day after their removal, several cattle on the lands died mysteriously. The outcry from neighbouring farmers was so great that one of the stones was brought back and restored to its original site, but upside down. That accounts for the cross being half buried in the ground.

13. Miraculous return of Tobar na Molt slab from Cromwellian colonist

    Tobernamult · well · Kerry

    A Cromwellian colonist named Hiram Sankey, residing at Killeen (now Oak Park) near Tralee, attempted to remove the sculptured slab from Tobar na Molt to his home. The ox-cart carrying the stone stuck at Bullock Hill on the Dun road and could not be budged; overnight the stone miraculously returned to its former position, and Sankey's sacrilege reportedly met with obscure punishment.

    Read the passage

    Cromwellian colonist, who, whether an iconoclast or merely an archaeologist, intended transferring it to his residence at Killeen (now Oak Park) near Tralee. But the ox-cart carrying the stone got no further than the place on the Dun road since known as Bullock Hill, for here it (miraculously) stuck, and not an inch further could be budged. There was nothing for it but to abandon cart and stone for the night, and on the following morning, behold, the stone was (miraculously) restored to its former position by Tobar na Molt. Nor did this act of sacrilige escape condign, if obscure, punishment. The story is circumstantial and seems authentic: Killeen was occupied by a Cromwellian colonist, who owned the limelight-illustrated name of Sankey, Hiram Sankey; it would be extremely interesting to know his end. When were bullocks last used for traction in Co. Kerry? It is worth mentioning, as illustration how tradition concedes to the age, that the tenant of Tobai na Molt from whom I heard this story, said that the spoilers tried horses first, and 4 they weren’t strong enough, so they put in oxen instead.’

    Towards the further end of the enclosure is the 4 grave,’ which, measuring some 18ft. in length and lying roughly north and south, consists of the broken turfy frame of what seems to have been a large burialmound constructed of stones and earth; the roof having fallen in, perhaps as the supporting substances decayed. Earth-work looks old in one year and not much older in a thousand: the date of this would be hard to conjecture. Outside the 4 grave,’ at the northern end, are three small circular holes, made about a foot from each other, in the thickness of the sod; each with a smooth stone as bottom. The stones are of slightly diverse tints and have been polished by the fingers of suffering pilgrims - who hope a benefit by rubbing these dies of stone, as well as by leaving pins upon them as 4 pishogues ’: the rings of sod are stiff with rusted pins. Pilgrims are wont to kneel in the southern end of the bath-shaped interior, and here the bank has been scooped out, several

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 168

14. Surrender of Castlemaine Castle, November 1599

    Castlemaine · town · Kerry · 1599

    After thirteen months of close blockade with almost no food or ammunition, the garrison of Castlemaine surrendered on 4 November 1599. The Commandant bluffed that they had six months' provisions, and FitzThomas granted the soldiers their lives and liberty.

    Read the passage

    smuggled in with difficulty and risk. “ Castlemaine, ,, says the Manuscript History before referred to, “ was long defended by the Ward without any means but their own shifts, which cost John Middleton, a fine Clerk, his life, not having his natural diet.” All hopes of relief had gone; not a word of encouragement reached the Ward, and there remained absolutely not a day’s rations. On the 4th November the Commandant called a parley, and FitzThomas came forward. The Commandant, assuming a bold air, hazarded the statement that they had still in the Castle provisions for six months, to which FitzThomas attached little credence; still he was ready to give up the place if he and his men were allowed their liberty and their lives. FitzThomas granted them both. The soldiers got safe conduct to Cork, while FitzThomas took possession of the castle and put in his Ward. He elected for Constable, Thomas Oge Fitzgerald, of Ardnagragh, and charged him with the safe keeping of the fortress; and Thomas Oge made declaration he would be true to his charge.

    The loss of Castle Magne caused much vexation at the English Court, and St. Leger was charged with this crowning misfortune. A letter from Justice Carey to Cecil, November, 1599, says: “ Castlemaine, being Her Majesty’s is lost,” and in the margin a note appears: “Sir Warham Sent Leger had the keeping of Castle¬ maine.” St. Leger, writing to the Privy Council, urged that he did what was possible to relieve th3 place; that lie was bound by his Commission to remain in Cork, and winds up a most apologetic epistle: “For the loss of the house I humly confess that it is somewhat dishonourable, but whensoever it pleaseth Her Majesty to recover Kerry and these countries that house will soon be had.” Brave language truly; but in the present aspect of things something other than tall talk was needed if Elizabeth were to retain hold of this realm. Never since the coming of Strongbow had the English interest stood in direr peril than at this hour; and now

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 50

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Castlemaine, in Kerry. In November 1599, this was the site of a stubborn siege that finally ended in surrender. The garrison had held out for thirteen months under close blockade, with almost no food and no ammunition. The manuscript history says the Ward survived on their own shifts, and that cost John Middleton, a fine clerk, his life, for want of his natural diet. Every hope of relief was gone. Not a word of encouragement reached the defenders. There remained absolutely not a day's rations. On the 4th of November the Commandant called a parley, and FitzThomas came forward. The Commandant put on a bold air and hazarded the claim that they still had provisions for six months. FitzThomas attached little credence to that, but he was ready to take the place if he and his men were allowed their liberty and their lives. He granted them both. The soldiers got safe conduct to Cork. FitzThomas took possession of the castle and installed his own Ward. He elected Thomas Oge Fitzgerald of Ardnagragh as Constable, and charged him with the safe keeping of the fortress. Thomas Oge made declaration he would be true to his charge. The loss of Castlemaine caused vexation at the English Court, and Sir Warham St. Leger was charged with this misfortune. A letter from Justice Carey to Cecil in November 1599 says, "Castlemaine, being Her Majesty's is lost," with a marginal note that St. Leger had the keeping of it. St. Leger wrote to the Privy Council that he did what was possible to relieve the place, that he was bound by his Commission to remain in Cork, and concluded, "For the loss of the house I humly confess that it is somewhat dishonourable, but whensoever it pleaseth Her Majesty to recover Kerry and these countries that house will soon be had." Never since the coming of Strongbow had the English interest stood in direr peril than at that hour.

15. Cormac Mac Cullinan killed at Battle of Moy-Ailbe

    Leighlinbridge · town · Carlow · 908

    In August 908, Cormac Mac Cullinan led his Munster army to the plains of Moy-Ailbe after concentrating forces near the Bridge of Leighlin. The Lagenian army, five times larger, routed the Munster forces; Cormac was thrown from his horse and killed, his head taken to Flann Siona.

    Read the passage

    supported by the leading nobles of the State. He therefore made all necessary preparations, and raised a considerable army. Having a presentiment that he would not return alive from the expedition, he sent for Congol, his confessor, and made his peace with God. He also made his will, in which he bequeathed rich donations to the religious establishments. In the beginning of August, 908, he marched to the frontier of Leinster. Before crossing it he sent a herald to Carrol, son of Muiregan, King of the country, formulating his demands. The herald returned with ambassadors, who were commissioned by Carrol to propose a treaty and cessation of arms till it took effect. It was also proposed to send hostages, and Carrol further sought to pave the way with a large sum of money and costly presents, which were brought and laid before the King of Munster. Whether Carrol was sincere in his proposals, or treacherously wished to gain time, it is certain that the implacable Flahertach would not hear of any cessation of hostilities, and insisted on Cormac’s leading on his army to the conflict. Cormac concentrated all his forces near the Bridge of Leighlin, and marched to the plains of Moy-Ailbe. Flahertach and the King of Ossory commanded the right wing, and Cormac MacMothlaigh, King of Desies, the left, whilst the King of Munster himself led the centre. The Lagenian army being five times as large as that of Munster, and therefore confident of success, fell on the Momonians with such irresistible fury that they caused a general rout of the latter. This was partly due to the treacherous conduct of Ceilliochair, the brother of Cingegan (Cormac’s immediate predecessor on the throne of Munster), who rode through the ranks and urged the Momonians to seek safety in flight, and also to the cowardice of Ceallacli Mac Carrol, one of the principal commanders of the Munster army, who rode out of the field at full speed, telling his men to look out for themselves. It was in vain that Cormac tried to rally his forces. He was thrown from his horse into a ravine, from which being extricated, and provided with

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 67

16. Dermod MacCarthy slain at Tralee Assizes

    Tralee · townland · Kerry · 1325

    In 1325, Dermod MacCarthy, ancestor of the Mac Finghin MacCarthys of Ceitheme and Glanerough, was killed while sitting on the bench at the Assizes in Tralee, in the presence of the Judge, by his first cousin Maurice Fitzmaurice, fourth Lord of Kerry. He was thereafter called Dermod 'of Tralee' from the place of his killing.

    Read the passage

    Donal Roe was succeeded by his elder son, Donal Oge MacCarthy Mor. In consequence of some dispute with his father’s first cousin, Donal Maol MacCarthy, Lord of Carbery, he entered the dominion of the latter in 1306, and took him prisoner. He released him soon afterwards, however, and at the close of the same year both princes led their united forces against the Anglo- Normans in Desmond. Donal Oge died in 1307, leaving, besides a son Cormac, of whom presently, a daughter named Orflaith, who married Turlogh Mor O’Brien of Thomond. Donal had a younger brother named Dermod, who was the ancestor of the Mac Finghin Mac- Carthys of Ceitheme and Glanerough. He was slain in 1325, at Tralee, whilst sitting on the bench at the Assizes, and in the presence of the Judge, by his own first cousin, Maurice Fitzmaurice, fourth Lord of Kerry, with whom he had a dispute. He was called Dermod “ of Tralee,” a loco occisionis, according to the then prevalent custom.

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 91

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Tralee, in 1325, a killing gave a man his lasting name. The man was Dermod, younger brother of Donal Oge MacCarthy Mor, who had succeeded their father Donal Roe. In 1306, Donal Oge entered the dominion of his father's first cousin, Donal Maol MacCarthy, Lord of Carbery, and took him prisoner over some dispute. He released him soon afterwards, and before the year was out both princes led their united forces against the Anglo-Normans in Desmond. Donal Oge died in 1307, leaving a son Cormac and a daughter Orflaith, who married Turlogh Mor O'Brien of Thomond. Dermod was the ancestor of the Mac Finghin MacCarthys of Ceitheme and Glanerough. In 1325, Dermod was slain here, whilst sitting on the bench at the Assizes, in the presence of the Judge. His killer was his own first cousin, Maurice Fitzmaurice, fourth Lord of Kerry, with whom he had a dispute. He was called Dermod "of Tralee," from the place of his killing, as the custom then went.

17. Execution of the Burrowes family at Killavarrig Hill

    Kilmore · townland · Roscommon

    Mac-ni-Crimen took the Burrowes family—John, his wife and two sons—to the Irish encampment at Killavarrig Hill, where they were hanged. The Commissioners later found Mac-ni-Crimen responsible and hanged him for the deed.

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    John Burrowes, an extensive sheep farmer, who held lands under Dermot McDaniel Carthy, alias Mac-ni-Crimen, of Ballinarohur Castle, on some of his cattle being seized during the rebellion, resolved to put himself under the pro¬ tection of his landlord. Mac-ni-Crimen consented, and gave him shelter for a time; but at length, probably growing tired of his charge, took them to the Irish encampment at Killavarrig Hill, where they (i.e., Burrowes, his wife and two sons) were hanged, by order, as w’as alleged, of their protector.

    Mac-ni-Crimen, when examined by the Commissioners who enquired into this and other cases, declared that it was not he but some soldiers of his son’s company who took the Burrowes to Killavarrig Hill, and he intimated that they deserved their fate, as they had treacherously sent some communications to the Bandonians about the weakness of the castle.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 181

18. Legend of Sybil Head

    Sybil Head · promontory · Kerry

    A legend tells of Sybil Lynch, a beautiful Galway woman who eloped with young Pierce Ferriter of West Kerry rather than marry the Ulster chieftain who won her at a tournament. Hidden in a cliff-side cave during the siege of Castle Sybil, she was swept away by a rising tide, and the headland above bears her name to this day.

    Read the passage

    despite all promptings of prudence, the gallant knight rode off with the beautiful lady to Kerry, and married her at the castle, beneath the shadow of the cliff which to this day bears her name.

    There was mounting in hot haste in Galway town, and the Prince of Ulster assembled his followers to go in pursuit of the runaway lovers. The chieftain Lynch, the lady's father, also rode with the host, who followed as fast as the bog and the mountain would permit. One can imagine the hurry and scurry of the chase over the wild uplands of Clare, across the flats of Limerick, and thence over the low boundary hills of Kerry. Brandon, lying there on the horizon, was the objective, and beyond Brandon was the castle where the chief of the Ferriter Clan lived. On they pushed with horse and foot to wreak vengeance on the gallant knight who had carried off the prize in face of all the strength of Ulster.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 58

19. Secret marriage of Lady Helen at Killalee church

    Killalee · townland · Kerry · 1588

    In April 1588, Lady Helen McCarthy secretly married her cousin Florence McCarthy in the old family church, defying Queen Elizabeth's wish that she wed an Englishman. The Countess and O'Sullivan Mor were the sole witnesses to the marriage.

    Read the passage

    coming to Ireland, and by him McCarthy Mor sent letters to the Countess. The heiress at this time was living with her mother at Pallis. She could be seen in the morning tripping across the fields to Mass at the family church of Killalee, but otherwise did not often appear abroad. Things seemed quietly running their course in Munster, when one day, in April, 1588, that Province was startled by a most sensational report —that Lady Helen, despite and in defiance of the Queen’s declared wishes, had “married privately in an old broken church and with the Mass,” Florence McCarthy, her cousin, and prospective owner of immense estates in Carbery. Had a Spanish fleet landed oh the coast, and a Spanish army penetrated to the heart of Desmond, the news would not have caused more sensa¬ tion. It was soon found that the report was true; it was even hinted that the letters brought by Florence even hinted that the letters brought by Florence McCarthy to the Countess conveyed the Earl’s sanction to the marriage: nor did the story seem improbable. Some days after the return of her cousin, Lady Helen and the Countess walked over to Mass to Killaloe; they there met Florence and O’Sullivan Mor, the young parties were married, the Countess and O’Sullivan being the sole witnesses to the fateful alliance.

    There was chagrin and anger on all sides. The well-arranged plan for the planting of Desmond had been defeated at one stroke. The Queen, in particular, whose authority had been set at nought, was wrought up to one of her constitutional fits of fury. She sent letters to her Ministers in Ireland to know “ the means and manner by which the said Florence had compassed the marriage with the Erie of Clancartie's daughter.” Every available item of information on the subject was set forth by Norreys in ample detail. When shall the thunderbolt burst? April is over, May, June has come. Perhaps Elizabeth, contrary to her usual manner, will let pass over this now irreparable misfortune. Far from it. The affairs of Ireland, we are told by Cecil, were

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 48

20. Spanish landing and entrenchment at Fort del Ore, Smerwick

    Smerwick · townland · Kerry · 1580

    About 600 Spaniards landed at Smerwick and entrenched themselves at Fort del Ore, an old fortress James Fitzmaurice had previously prepared. The Earl of Ormonde reconnoitred with about 80 soldiers but was repulsed when over a hundred Italians issued from the fort and fired muskets, killing Andrew Martyn.

    Read the passage

    men: but they could reconnoitre, even though they might not attack. They found the Spaniards,—about 600 men, strongly entrenched at Fort del Ore. Ormond took 80 soldiers with him towards the Camp, Martyn being apparently associated with him in command.

    As they approached there issued quickly from the fort a body of more than a hundred men, who discharged their muskets on Ormond’s party. The luckless Andrew Martyn was shot dead, and others no doubt of whom there is no mention.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 25

21. Surrender of Castle Magne After Twelve-Week Siege

    Castleisland · town · Kerry · 1572

    After twelve weeks of siege, the starving garrison at Castle Magne hoisted a white flag. Perrott offered them their liberty if they surrendered the fortress within an hour. The garrison marched out, and John Herbert was installed as constable with a garrison of ten men.

    Read the passage

    Is there none to render aid to that heroic Ward, none to create a diversion in Perrott’s forces, that a little pro¬ visions may be smuggled into the castle? With Desmond and his brother in prison, there appears no hope of relief. James Fitzmaurice hovers round Slieve Loughra, but the bulk of his followers have fallen off, and with his diminished forces he dare not challenge Perrott. Help nowhere. Nine weeks pass, and still the defenders show no signs of yielding. But the end must soon come. The luxury of half-rations is long past. Still ten weeks go by and every man is at his post. Eleven weeks, and the operations of the besiegers are now confined to guarding every avenue to the castle. The twelfth week comes to an end, and a white flag is hoisted from the parapet. Perrott sends an officer to know what the Constable has to say. The latter asks, what are the conditions of surrender? Perrott answers, if they deliver up the fortress within an hour they may leave free men. Terms accepted. In less than an hour the Ward march forth from the castle, and Perrott takes over his coveted prize. And now is ended that “long, charge¬ able, and troublesome siege.” Now may Perrott be called Lord President of Munster. The castle will serve as a rallying point for Her Majesty’s forces in Munster. It will control the territories of Desmond and McCarthy Mor. John Herbert, a trusted officer, is made Constable, with a garrison of ten men, and Perrot proceeds to Cork.

    With this last and greatest of Desmond’s strongholds taken, and its owner in chains, Her Majesty may feel

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 12

22. Treachery at Tara: Luigh's revenge on Cormac

    Tara · parish · Meath

    Cormac brought the wounded Teige and Luigh to Tara, placing them in a house outside the walls. A physician was ordered to poison their wounds, but Luigh discovered a hidden sword, attacked Cormac, and forced him and his attendants to flee to the gates of Tara for protection.

    Read the passage

    Cormac returned to Olliol and to Sabi*, and Sabia requested Teige, son of Cian, to go with Cormac against the Ultonians. Teige promised to do so provided he got as much of the plain of Meath as his chariot could go round after he had won the battle. Cormac gave his word that he would grant this request- Teige arose early the next morning and sent for Luigh Lagha, and they both marched at the head of a great army against the Ferguses and the Ultonians. A battle was fought between them, and Luigh killed Fergus-dubh-dheadhach and came with his head to Cormac. The Ultonians proclaimed the other two Ferguses, one after the other, and Luigh killed them and brought their heads to Cormac as an atonement for the slaying of Art-Mac-Conn. Teige, the son of Cian, forced his way through the enemies ranks, and after he had made great slaughter among them, they fled before him, but he with the Mononians pursued them; which, when Cormac perceived, he promised Teige’s charioteer whatever he liked to ask if he would drive towards the field of battle as soon as Teige became weak- The servant promised to do so, which he did, for he drove the chariot three times to the battle-field after Teige had surrounded a part of Meath every time, so that it was on the very spot whereon the battle was fought when night overtook them. When Teige found out the treachery, he slew the charioteer. Cormac took Teige and Luigh with him to Tara to have their wounds healed, and put them into a house outside the w’alls of Tara on the green, had their arms taken from them, except Luigh’s sword, which was hidden under his bed, and ordered the physician to put leeches, beards of barley and bristles into their wounds to cause their death. Then, when Cormac thought that Luigh was near his end, he came to him and said,

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 163

23. Seven boats lying in wait at Dingle for Herbert

    Dingle · town · Kerry · 1573

    As John Herbert attempted to travel by water to Castlemaine, McCarthy Mor assured him that seven boats were stationed at Dingle watching for him, illustrating the danger surrounding government supporters during the Desmond rebellion.

    Read the passage

    messengers, one after another, to Castle Magne, for his horses, and with letters to the ward to stand firm, whilst he makes ready to send round provisions by sea to the Castle. McCarthy Mor, with a show of loyalty, writes to the Constable that they had provisions at the castle, and that things there were all right. Still no letter from the Ward, no horses, no messengers. At last, after a fort¬ night’s agonizing suspense, he sends his servant, Dominic Miagh, to Castle Magne, disguised in Kerne’s apparel, and he himself proceeds by water, not, however, without being assured for his comfort by McCarthy Mor, that seven boats were on the look-out for him at Dingle. Miagh arrives safely at Castle Magne, and no doubt gives proper directions to the Ward to guard against surprise. The Ward cannot see any grounds for this anxiety. Nay, to vary the monotony of life within the castle, they spend the evenings among friendly neighbours. This “ going in and out” vexes the soul of Dominic Miagh. But worse still, there is what he calls “ a churl or drudge, ” who is Irish, employed at the castle to bring water and firewood, and do sundry jobs. He is permitted to remain at night within the castle, and having frequently to pass in and out the gates, has the free use of the keys. This ‘ ‘ churl ’ ’ Miagh neither loves nor likes, and plucking up courage one night, he thrusts him out of the castle until morning. He becomes bolder after this, and goes straight to the Vice-Constable, and charges him to his face with the lax discipline he has been keeping among the Ward. Herbert snatches up a fire¬ brand and belabours Miagh on the head and shoulders until his honour and dignity are vindicated. Did he not each night lock the castle gates with his own hand, and were not the keys each night under his pillow while he slept? What more could a faithful Vice-Constable do?

    Meanwhile there is enthusiasm around at the return of Desmond, and much rejoicing, and “ usquebagh ” flows

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 14

24. Desmond's Escape from Dublin and Return to Kerry

    Castleisland · town · Kerry · 1573

    After being held in Dublin by Lord Mayor Christopher Fagan as a guest, the Earl of Desmond escaped while attending a hunt. He fled south through Kildare and returned to his cherished abode, the 'Sweetest Island of Kerry' (Castleisland), causing panic among government supporters.

    Read the passage

    In the spring of 1573 James Fitzmaurice made his submission to Perrott in Kilmallock, and the latter makes application to Elizabeth for his recall to England after his three weary years in Munster. Perrott is recalled, and sets sail from Toughal in September. When Desmond had been three years in the Tower, it was deemed advisable, for reasons of State, to send him on to Dublin. He is accordingly transferred there in 1570, and placed in charge of the Mayor of that city. In 1573 Christopher Fagan, a new Lord Mayor, took up the chains of office. He absolutely refused, however, to be the Earl’s jailor, but offered to keep him as a guest in his house. This is agreed to, and Desmond is allowed to move abroad, with the obligation of reporting himself regularly at midday and at night. (“) He is treated with more con¬ sideration than heretofore, and allowed the use of a horse. On a certain day he requests the privilege of attending a hunt, which is granted. He goes, accompanied by a few friends. As night approaches, he turns his face towards the south, puts spurs to his horse, and makes a dash for freedom. He succeeds that night in reaching Kildare, and in a few days makes good his way to his cherished abode, the “ Sweetest Island of Kerry.” b In every cabin and castle in Munster where a Milesian or English rebel dwells, there is unmeasured delight and rejoicing that this traditional enemy of hated Saxon rule is once more in their midst. There is a flutter, even a panic, among the supporters of the Government. All courage and judgment seem to have left them, and most of Desmond’s castles are yielded ur> with¬ out a struggle. Letters of alarm are sent to Dublin and

    (13.) Old Kerry Records. 1st aeries, p. 306, (b) Castleisland.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 12

25. Kieran of Cluain heals false-oath taker Abacuc

    Cloon Glebe · townland · Kerry · 483

    At the Fair of Tailte, a man named Abacuc took a false oath on Kieran of Cluain's hand, causing his head to fall off in the presence of the men of Ireland. Kieran brought him to Cluain to be healed, and Abacuc lived six years afterwards.

    Read the passage

    The Fair of Tailte was held this year by Diarmaid, and Eieran of Cluain was at that Fair. There came to him a man who took a false oath on his hand, for doing which the head fell off him in presence of the men of Ireland. Kieran brought him with him to Cluain to be healed, and he lived for six years afterwards. Abacuc was his name.

    During the time of this Diarmaid, son of Ceirbheol, died Kieran-mac-an-tSaoir , 14 Finnen of Cluain-Iorard , 15 Columcille, Baoithin, Colum, son of Criomthann, Molaise, Caimin of Innis Cealtra , 16 and Tal of Killcullen . 17

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 199

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Cloon Glebe, a story is told from the year 483. At the Fair of Tailte, held by Diarmaid, Kieran of Cluain was present. A man came to him and took a false oath on Kieran's hand. For that, his head fell off him in the presence of the men of Ireland. Kieran brought him to Cluain to be healed, and he lived for six years afterwards. Abacuc was his name.

26. Battle of Mangerton at Loch Lein, 1262

    Mangerton · townland · Kerry · 1262

    In 1262, Mac William Burke and the English of Ireland led an army into Desmond against MacCarthy, arriving at Mangartach of Loch Lein. Gerald Roche, reckoned the third best knight of his time, was slain by MacCarthy, and Cormac son of Donall Gott was also killed.

    Read the passage

    The battle of Mangerton took place a year after thai of Callan. This is what the Four Masters say about it: “An Army was led by Mac William Burke, and the English of Ireland, into Desmond against Mac¬ Carthy, and arrived at Mangartach of Loch Lein. There Gerald Roche, who was said to have been the third best knight of his time in Ireland, was slain by MacCarthy. This was a triumph without joy to Desmond, for Cormac, son of Donall Gott MacCarthy, was slain. In¬ deed both the English and the Irish suffered great loss about the Mangartach Mountains on that day.” It

    fl) John FitzThomas FitzGerald, afterwards known as John of Callan. He was the founder of the Dominican Monastery at Tralee. Hanmer states that his Ron Maurice also fell. The latter’s son Thomas was an infant nine months old at the time, of whom the legond goes that be was carried by an ape to the top of the Dominican bell tower and brought back safely to his nurse.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 90

27. Death of Brian Boru at Clontarf

    Clontarf · parish · Dublin · 1014

    Brian Boru was killed on the field of Clontarf in 1014. His death led to immediate dissensions among the leaders of his army and an era of war throughout Munster.

    Read the passage

    T has been stated that the death of Maolmuadh, at the battle of Bealaeh Leachta, in 978, brought to an end the long succession of Eugenian Kings of Munster, which had con¬ tinued without a break for 700 years. After that battle, the Eugenians, for a time, ceased from rivalry and were glad to make peace with Brian Boru on his own terms. The power of the O’Briens, which had been growing for some generations, was at its highest. A number of able princes had sprung up amofigst them, above whom of course towered the celebrated Brian, whose ambition soared far beyond the recovery of the throne of Munster. There was consequently a period of peace, which lasted until Brian’s death on the field of Clontarf in 1014. Immedi¬ ately after that, dissensions arose amongst the remaining leaders of his army. The Chieftains of Desmond, who had never really recognised even Brian’s right to transmit the Kingdom of Leath Moglia to his posterity, put forward their claims to the Sovereignty’, on the old ground of “Alternate Right.” Their attempts were not successful; and, for some 180 years, the Dalcassians, though losing the Sovereignty of Ireland, which had been won by Brian Boru, retained that of

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 74

28. Donal MacCarthy's assault on Molahiffe Castle

    Molahiffe · parish · Kerry · 1597–1599

    Donal MacCarthy, the illegitimate son of the Earl of Clancar, took part in the assault and capture of Browne's Castle of Molahiffe during the open rebellion in Munster. Sir Valentine Browne was seated at Molahiffe, in the centre of the Earl's country.

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    In the early part of 1597, soon after the Earl’s death, Donal seemed to be turning over a new leaf. He proceeded to England to urge his claims to certain lands which his fatheT had left him. An order was passed in his favour in the course of the following year, 1598. After that came another order providing a sufficient dower for the Earl of Clancar’s widow. How¬ ever, on his return to Ireland, Donal, emboldened by O’Neill (who was then looked upon as little less than a King), and flinging his recent inheritance to the winds, proclaimed himself “ MacCarthy Mor.” He took pos¬ session of the late Earl’s estates. The country was in a state of open rebellion, into which Donal plunged with ardour, taking part, amongst other things, in the assault and capture of Browne’s Castle of Molahiffe. He was then called away to fight the Earl of Essex, whom he chased out of Munster, inflicting on him a severe defeat at a place since known as the “Passage of Plumes.” 1 It was shortly after this, in April, 1599, that Florence MacCarthy was sent over to Ireland on his mission for the pacification of Munster. Soon after his arrival O’Neill acknowledged him as “MacCarthy Mor,” thereby deposing Donal, on whom he had con¬ ferred the honour a year previously. The next thing we hear of Donal is his submission to Carew, whom he besought to obtain for him the Queen’s pardon, he offering his services in the prosecution of Florence. Carew, in his letter of the 30th August, 1600, backed up this request, and recommended the grant of some land to Donal, “ according to the quality of his service.”*

    (1) This was a certain narrow pass about a mile long, hemmed in by a thick wood, where Essex and his soldiers were drawn into an ambuscade. It derives its name from the magnificently plumed hats worn by the English soldiers. Essex reached Dublin, says Camden, with his companies "incredibly wasted.”

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 126

29. Fitzmaurice lands with Spanish vessels at Dingle Harbour

    Dingle Harbour · harbour · Kerry · 1579

    On 17th July 1579, James Fitzmaurice arrived with six Spanish vessels and entered Dingle Harbour. The next day he left, sailed around by Slea Head, and entered Smerwick Harbour where he disembarked and took possession of a narrow headland known as Fort del Ore.

    Read the passage

    on the coast, and this time indeed rumour spoke the truth. It was ascertained that on the I7th July, 1579, James Fitzmaurice, with six Spanish vessels, entered Dingle Harbour: next day he left, went around by Slea Head, and entered Smerwick Harbour, which lies on the northern shore of Dingle promontory, where he disembarked, and took possession of a narrow headland, known as Fort del Ore. Andrew Martyn had early intelligence of this, but was utterly helpless: he was short of provisions; he expected his castle to be attacked at any moment, and was in no condition to repel attack. He sent earnest entreaty to the Mayors of Cork and Waterford to come quickly to his relief with men and provisions, and writes in conclusion: “I stande to the courtesie of the Erie of Desmond and my Lord of Glanker, to send me some fleshe.” There was evidently a great want of foresight somewhere. This landing was expected, and some pro¬ vision might have been made to guard the coast. Castle Magne, a probable objective for attack, might have been put in a fit condition to resist, but it could not hold out a week. Such was the serious situation; but alarm gave way to intense satisfaction when it was discovered that Fitzmaurice’s force was so insignificant. He had only 80 Spaniards on board. A sigh of relief went up from one and all Her Majesty’s Ministers in Ireland. The Spaniards marched inland and dispersed themselves through the country; Fitzmaurice went to rally the dis¬ affected in Connaught and the North, but on the way had an encounter with the Burkes of Castleconnel, in which he was mortally wounded. One formidable enemy of Elizabeth was thus removed, though this did not allay anxiety. Desmond’s brothers were in revolt in Munster, and hundreds joined their standard. The Earl took no part in his brothers’ rebellion; he gave the Government early information of the landing of James Fitzmaurice; he gave up his only son to Sir William Drury as a hostage for his

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 23

30. Hanafin's fairy-protected cows near Dingle

    Dingle · town · Kerry

    A farmer named Hanafin living near Dingle discovers fairies in a local fort are spilling his cows' milk. He bargains with them by offering the milk of a calving cow, and the fairies subsequently defend his cattle from bailiffs and police.

    Read the passage

    Hanifin, it appears, was a farmer living near Dingle, owning a large herd of cows which were driven up every morning to be milked in front of the house. It hap¬ pened however that for several days the tub into which the milk was poured by the girls was mysteriously over¬ turned and the milk spilled. Hanifin’s wife was natu¬ rally excessively indignant, but in spite of every pre¬ caution the milk continued to be upset. One morning however, as Hanifin was walking along the road past a fairy fort, he heard a child crying inside it and a woman’s voice saying “Be quiet a while. Hanafin’s cows are going home; we’ll soon have milk in plenty.” Now Hanafin being a wise man, said nothing, but went home and personally supervised the milking, with the result that on the usual overturning of the tub he stopped his wife in the middle of her scolding by telling her it was no fault of the girl, who on this occasion had been pushed by one of the cows against the tub. “ Leave it to me,” he said. “I’ll try and manage this business.”

    The following morning, on hearing the child crying again in the fort, he “like the brave man that he was” went inside. He saw no one, but he said “ A child is crying for milk. A cow of mine will calve to-morrow. I’ll let no one milk that cow; you can do what you like with her milk.” The tub was never turned over again, and for two years Hanafin prospered in every way, tak¬ ing good care of the cow, and never letting a girl or a woman milk her. Unfortunately however, Hanafin being a Kerryman, was also soft-hearted, and some of his neighbours getting into trouble, he went security

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 135

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Dingle, in Kerry. A farmer named Hanafin lived near here, and he had a large herd of cows brought up every morning to be milked in front of his house. The milk tub kept getting overturned, and no precaution stopped it. One morning walking past a fairy fort, he heard a child crying inside and a woman's voice saying, 'Be quiet a while. Hanafin's cows are going home; we'll soon have milk in plenty.' He said nothing, went home, and took charge of the milking himself. The next morning, hearing the child cry again, he went into the fort and offered the fairies the milk of a cow about to calve, telling them no one would milk that cow but they could have her milk. The tub was never turned over again. For two years Hanafin prospered, taking care of the cow and never letting anyone milk her. Then he went security for neighbours who had got into trouble, and when bailiffs and police came for his cattle, the fairies defended them.

31. Herbert campaigns to have Castle Magne razed

    Castlemaine · town · Kerry · 1587–1588

    Sir William Herbert wrote elaborate letters arguing Castle Magne should be levelled to save the Queen money, citing its perilous garrison situation and the Constable Spring's questionable loyalty. He declared the castle chargeable, unprofitable, perilous, and odious, and urged its demolition.

    Read the passage

    without scaleable, nor from below mineable by any possible means, nor as it is built batterable without excessive and infinite charge.’’ He spoke of the easy surprise of the place on Desmond’s escape from Dublin, “and may not the same thing occur again,” he asks, “ if Desmond’s son should escape from the Tower?” Next comes the direct attack. “The Constable now of that castle (Spring) who hath it for term of his life, is married to the Earl of Desmond’s foster-sister, his Vice-Constable an Irishman married to another foster-sister of the Earl’s, divers of the Ward Irishmen.” And so why think it would not be given to the Earl’s son were he to escape? “It may be said,” he remarks, “that Springe is an Englishman.” He answers, was not his brother, who was • convicted by the Earl of Ormond of giving food and powder to Desmond, an Englishman, and did he not prove treacherous; and why suppose the present Constable, who is in many ways unfit for his charge, would not similarly prove a traitor, “ and the castle become at the end a nest and receptacle for rebels ” P The remedy is to level it to the ground. “ It is chargeable, it is unprofitable, it is perilous, it is odious; therefore it is to be razed, so shall great charges be saved, great peril prevented, and the people generally wonderfully gratified, and God no doubt (pious good man !) be greatly pleased, Whose justice reacheth not only to persons but also to”—bridges.

    A year previous to the time these letters were written, viz., in 1587, Elizabeth in her plans for retrenchment had actually sent an order to the Privy Council in Dublin to disband the Ward at Castle Magne and give over the castle to Sir Valentine Browne “ and his heirs for ever,” for the maintenace of which a perpetuity be granted “of £40 by the year.” This order was never executed, nor is it difficult to divine the reason. Sir John Perrott

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 27

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Castlemaine, this is where Castle Magne stood, the fortress Sir William Herbert wanted levelled in 1587 and 1588. Herbert argued the castle could not be scaled or mined from below, and could only be battered at excessive and infinite cost. He warned of how easily the place had been surprised when Desmond escaped from Dublin, and asked whether the same could happen again if Desmond's son escaped from the Tower. His deepest concern was the garrison. The Constable, a man called Spring, held the castle for life and was married to the Earl of Desmond's foster-sister. The Vice-Constable was an Irishman married to another of the Earl's foster-sisters, and many of the ward were Irishmen. Herbert asked why anyone would think the castle would not be handed to the Earl's son if he escaped. It might be said that Spring was an Englishman, but Herbert answered that Spring's brother, also an Englishman, had been convicted by the Earl of Ormond of giving food and powder to Desmond, and had proved treacherous. Herbert declared the castle chargeable, unprofitable, perilous, and odious, and called for it to be razed. Great charges would be saved, great peril prevented, the people gratified, and God pleased. A year before these letters, in 1587, Elizabeth had already sent an order to the Privy Council in Dublin to disband the ward at Castle Magne and give the castle to Sir Valentine Browne and his heirs for ever, with a perpetuity of £40 by the year. That order was never executed.

32. MacCarthy Reagh's deception at Bandon

    Bandon · town · Cork · 1642

    In 1642, Cormac MacCarthy Reagh came to Bandon and falsely declared he would fight for the English to obtain arms from the garrison. He distributed the arms to his men and marched to attack the town the next day.

    Read the passage

    By his wife, Ellen Roche, he left a son, Cormac, who succeeded him, and who became Commander of the Munster clans in the Rebellion of 1641 4 (his lieutenant being Tadgan-Dunaidh MacCarthy of Dunmanway). Most of his estates were confiscated by Cromwell in 1652, but he got back a portion of them at the Restoration. The rebellion, so far as MacCarthy Reagh’s territory was concerned, was put down without much difficulty, and all resistance seems to have collapsed at an early stage of the war. Bennett, in his “History of Bandon,” states that, in the beginning of 1642, Cormac MacCarthy Reagh came to Bandon, and declared that he would fight for the English. In this way he induced Lord Kinalmeky, who commanded the garrison, to give him a supply of arms. We are unable to say whether his profession of loyalty was merely a pretence, in order to obtain arms, or was sincere, and he was induced on his return home to change his plans. Be that as it may, the fact remains that he distributed them amongst his men, and next day marched to attack the town of Bandon. He came within a mile of it, and then, facing to the north-west, advanced as far as a place called Knockagarane, about half a mile south of the Bandon river, expecting to be there joined by the Hurleys from Ballinacarriga, and by Teigean-Duna from Dunmanway. There he threw up a strong earthwork, where he remained some days, as if undecided what to do. In the meantime, the Bandon Militia 5 marched

    * In this capacity he acted under Donagh .Lord Muskerry, the Con¬ federate Chieftain, who was, by Charles I., appointed Lord President of Munster.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 177

33. Perrott's Second Siege of Castle Magne (Caislen-na-Maigne)

    Castleisland · town · Kerry · 1572

    In June 1572, Lord President Perrott launched a second siege of Castle Magne with artillery and men. Neighbouring chieftains, including Lord Roche and Donal, Earl of Clancarthy, joined Perrott. Despite weeks of bombardment, the small garrison held out far longer than other strongholds.

    Read the passage

    The Ward at the castle prepare to make good the injury done by the siege, and soon the place looks trim once more. Perrott is chafing in Cork at his discomfiture at Caislen-na-Maigne and is impatient for the time to renew the attack. In the first days of June, 1572, he is again before its walls, and this time with the most elaborate preparations of artillery, ammunition, and men. Delenda est Carthago . Again the neighbouring chieftains and their clans appear. Lord Roche from Fermoy, and Donal, Earl of Clancarthy. Shifty Donal! He had been arrested by Sydney in 1565 on some pretended charge, and sent to England. The Queen treated him with the utmost kindness, created him Earl of Clancarthy, for which Donal, no doubt, dutifully gave thanks. Her Majesty gave him money for his journey and sent him back to Ireland, “to be a thorn in the side of Desmond.*’ 11

    His followers do not take kindly to the dignity, and soon he allows his hair grow long, dons his saffron shirt, rides his charger saddleless, and proclaims himself once again McCarthy Mor, all of which were penal in a Queen’s Earl. Soon Perrott appears in Munster, and Donal scents danger, slips on his Earl’s coronet, and at the Lord Pre¬ sident’s summons, on saddled war-horse, with hair closely cropped, and smart dress, he appears one of the foremost at the castle. Loyalty is not the motive with Donal, as one may guess, though in after years he makes his presence at the siege his plea for favour at Her Majesty’s hands “. And now Perrott sets down in earnest to his work. Mindful of Sir Owen O’Sullivan, he places trusty guards around the castle at all points. The garrison at the castle generally was a dozen men. At present they

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 11

34. Dominic Miagh's disguised mission to Castlemaine and lax ward discipline

    Castlemaine · town · Kerry · 1573

    After a fortnight without news, John Herbert sent his servant Dominic Miagh disguised as a kerne to Castlemaine castle. Miagh found the ward laxly disciplined, socialising with neighbours and allowing an Irish servant free use of the castle keys at night.

    Read the passage

    messengers, one after another, to Castle Magne, for his horses, and with letters to the ward to stand firm, whilst he makes ready to send round provisions by sea to the Castle. McCarthy Mor, with a show of loyalty, writes to the Constable that they had provisions at the castle, and that things there were all right. Still no letter from the Ward, no horses, no messengers. At last, after a fort¬ night’s agonizing suspense, he sends his servant, Dominic Miagh, to Castle Magne, disguised in Kerne’s apparel, and he himself proceeds by water, not, however, without being assured for his comfort by McCarthy Mor, that seven boats were on the look-out for him at Dingle. Miagh arrives safely at Castle Magne, and no doubt gives proper directions to the Ward to guard against surprise. The Ward cannot see any grounds for this anxiety. Nay, to vary the monotony of life within the castle, they spend the evenings among friendly neighbours. This “ going in and out” vexes the soul of Dominic Miagh. But worse still, there is what he calls “ a churl or drudge, ” who is Irish, employed at the castle to bring water and firewood, and do sundry jobs. He is permitted to remain at night within the castle, and having frequently to pass in and out the gates, has the free use of the keys. This ‘ ‘ churl ’ ’ Miagh neither loves nor likes, and plucking up courage one night, he thrusts him out of the castle until morning. He becomes bolder after this, and goes straight to the Vice-Constable, and charges him to his face with the lax discipline he has been keeping among the Ward. Herbert snatches up a fire¬ brand and belabours Miagh on the head and shoulders until his honour and dignity are vindicated. Did he not each night lock the castle gates with his own hand, and were not the keys each night under his pillow while he slept? What more could a faithful Vice-Constable do?

    Meanwhile there is enthusiasm around at the return of Desmond, and much rejoicing, and “ usquebagh ” flows

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 14

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming up to the town of Castlemaine. In 1573 this was Castle Magne, and John Herbert was waiting for word from the ward inside it. Messengers went out one after another, with letters telling the ward to stand firm, and asking for his horses. McCarthy Mor wrote back that provisions were at the castle and all was well. But no letter came from the ward, no horses, no messengers. After a fortnight, Herbert sent his servant Dominic Miagh, dressed in a kerne's clothes, to the castle. Herbert himself went by water, though McCarthy Mor warned him that seven boats were watching for him at Dingle. Miagh arrived safely and told the ward to guard against surprise. The ward saw no reason for worry. To pass the time, they spent their evenings among friendly neighbours, going in and out of the castle. This vexed Miagh. Worse, there was an Irish man employed at the castle, what Miagh called a churl or drudge, who brought water and firewood and did odd jobs. He was allowed to stay inside at night, and because he passed in and out of the gates, he had the free use of the keys. Miagh neither loved nor liked him, and one night he thrust him out of the castle until morning. Then Miagh grew bolder. He went to the Vice-Constable and charged him to his face with keeping lax discipline among the ward. Herbert snatched up a firebrand and beat Miagh on the head and shoulders until his honour was vindicated. He asked what more a faithful Vice-Constable could do, when each night he locked the gates with his own hand and kept the keys under his pillow. Meanwhile, around them, Desmond had returned, and there was rejoicing, and usquebagh flowed.

35. Castlemaine fortress starved during Munster rebellion

    Castlemaine · town · Kerry · 1580

    Castle Magne (Castlemaine), the great centre to which the Queen's forces could turn for assistance, was itself in sad plight for food during the spring of 1580. The fleet at Dingle was requisitioned to send supplies but was suddenly ordered off, and no food arrived for the beleaguered Ward.

    Read the passage

    But the last had not been heard of a Spanish invasion; and in the spring of 1580 rumours of it were again rife. Andrew Mar.tyn kept clamouring for supplies and for men, but got neither. Castle Magne, the great centre in these parts to which the Queen’s forces in time of stress might turn for assistance, was itself in sad plight for food. The fleet, anchored at Dingle in early spring, was requisitioned to send supplies to the castle; the fleet, however, was suddenly ordered off, and no food arrived. Pelham wrote on the 21st March to Andrew Martyn: “We are disappointed of our victuals by the sudden going “ of the ships from Dingle, but the Earl of Ormond will “visit you this day to take order for your victualling.” On the 3rd April Pelham wrote a letter—and an offensive one—to the Baron of Lixnaw: “I require you not only to convey with all speed and safety this enclosed letter to Andrew Martyn to Castle Magne, but also that you do send unto him such relief of victuals as he shall require.” In like tone, no doubt, were his letters to McCarthy Mor; but Donal, to his credit, took little notice of the man. Martyn could not get on without food, however, and getting none, he made his complaint to the Council in London; they ordered Pelham to see to the fortress at .once. Pelham assured them he had given directions to McCarthy Mor and to Fitzmaurice to victual the place, and that Ormond was coming from Cork with stores.

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 23

36. Lord Lieutenant's surprise arrival at Kilmallock

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1598

    On 11 October 1598, the Lord Lieutenant arrived unexpectedly at Kilmallock. The rebels had planned to storm the town, and the townsfolk were on the verge of surrendering, but when the Lord Lieutenant's trump sounded they opened their gates and threw up their caps.

    Read the passage

    town being Sir Thomas Norreys, and he President of the Province, ran away first, together with his lady, into Cork. On the 11th October the Lord Lieutenant came to Kilmallock unlooked-for. The rebels had determined to storm the place. The town-folk had warning thereof, and finding themselves weak (faint hearts and white livers had they, yea, and a number of false hearts) determined to give up the town to safeguard their own lives, but when the Lord Lieutenant’s trump sounded they opened their gates to him and threw up their caps.

    . Tullow, a great town, all English man, woman and child, with thirty good shot, ran away, every one.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 49

37. Castle Magne attacked and taken by Daniel McCarthy

    Castlemaine · town · Kerry · 1641–1647

    During the Confederate wars, Daniel McCarthy of Carrigapreghane attacked Castle Magne, held by the Parliamentary Party under Sir Edward Denny, and took it after a few days' siege along with stores and two old cannon. The castle remained in McCarthy's hands through the entire war.

    Read the passage

    In 1641 Charles I. had troubles with the Parliament in England, which were soon followed by civil war. The Irish Catholics availed themselves of the occasion to secure free exercise of their religion. After some time the whole people of Ireland were divided into two hostile camps, viz—those who supported the King and those who supported the Parliament. Tralee, Ballingarry, Ballybeggan and Castle Magne were held for the Parliamentary Party. Florence McFineen McCarthy, of Castle Lough, styled by the English the “Sougan Captain,” had command of the Confederate Catholics who declared for Charles. Sir Edward Denny held Castle Magne, perhaps as Deputy. Inchiquin was commander of the Parliamentary forces in Munster. Lord Kerry was appointed Governor of Kerry, and he was directed to give charge of Castle Magne to Captain Thomas Spring, second son of the first Patent Constable of the name. It was attacked by Daniel McCarthy, of Carrigapreghane, elder brother of the Sougan Captain, and was taken after a few days’ siege, together with some stores, and two old cannon, which were accounted a prize of great value. The castle remained in the hands of McCarthy through the entire war. At first success seemed to attend the Confederate cause in Kerry, but towards 1647 the Parliamentary Party were in the ascendant, and Daniel McCarthy appeared willing to come to terms with Inchiquin. Lord Kerry, finding

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 55

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Castlemaine. Back in the 1640s, this was Castle Magne country. Charles the First had his troubles with Parliament in England, and by 1641 those troubles turned to civil war. In Ireland the whole people split into two hostile camps, those for the King and those for Parliament. Castle Magne was held for the Parliamentary Party under Sir Edward Denny, perhaps as Deputy. Inchiquin commanded the Parliamentary forces in Munster, and Lord Kerry was appointed Governor of Kerry. He was directed to give charge of Castle Magne to Captain Thomas Spring, second son of the first Patent Constable of that name. But Daniel McCarthy of Carrigapreghane, elder brother of Florence McFineen McCarthy, the man the English called the Sougan Captain, attacked the castle. It fell after a few days' siege. McCarthy took it along with some stores and two old cannon, which were accounted a prize of great value. The castle stayed in McCarthy's hands through the entire war. At first the Confederate cause seemed to succeed in Kerry, but towards 1647 the Parliamentary Party were in the ascendant, and Daniel McCarthy appeared willing to come to terms with Inchiquin.

38. Castle Magne on the bridge and the Murdering Hole

    Castlemaine · town · Kerry

    An ancient castle known as Castle Magne stood on a four-arched bridge before any village existed. The bridge was once narrow enough for only a single car but was enlarged about forty years before 1908. A square masonry aperture opening into the water, known as the 'Murdering Hole,' was popularly believed to be the spot above which stood the gallows of the mighty Desmond.

    Read the passage

    westward to the river, which is here spanned by a bridge of four arches. On this bridge there stood an ancient castle, known as Castle Magne, before yet a village existed. In past times it was so narrow as to afford space barely sufficient for a single car to pass, but some forty years ago it was enlarged to its present dimensions, thus giving it a somewhat modern appearance. To-day there is little to arrest attention in that old structure, but two generations back it still bore traces of the pur¬ pose for which it once served. There extended eastward along the bed of the river, from the two central arches, three massive buttresses. The castle stood on these arches and projected on the buttresses. Beyond the eastern parapet was a square aperture of masonry opening into the water, which was associated in the minds of a past age with mysterious and fearful significance. It was known as the “Murdering Hole,” and was religiously believed to be the spot above which stood the gallows of the mighty Desmond. If the truth were known, it probably served a much more innocent purpose. There was here another relic of antiquity, which was the source of much heated discussion in times past. In the roadway, on the bridge, near the western parapet, was placed a stone scored with what seemed a cup-marking within a half-circle. The popular belief held its ground for years that this was nothing else than the imprint of his Satanic Majesty’s iron-shod foot, as he was about to soar aloft at early morning, after one of his periodic visits to the scene of his former revels; but a ruthless iconoclast comes along and casts discredit on the venerable tradition, maintaining as he did, that this was the stone, with its socket, on which one of the gates of the castle revolved. We leave the decision of this weighty question to the learned, while we proceed with our narrative.

    There is a drawing of the castle in “ Pacata Hibernia 99 as it appeared in 1600. The sketch shows two central

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 5

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Castlemaine, the river is crossed by a bridge of four arches, and on this bridge once stood an ancient castle known as Castle Magne, before any village existed here at all. The bridge was once so narrow that barely a single car could pass, but it was enlarged about forty years before 1908, giving it a more modern appearance. By then there was little left of the old structure to arrest attention, but two generations back it still bore traces of the purpose for which it once served. Three massive buttresses extended eastward along the river bed from the two central arches, and the castle stood on these arches and projected onto the buttresses. Beyond the eastern parapet was a square aperture of masonry opening into the water, associated in the minds of a past age with mysterious and fearful significance. It was known as the “Murdering Hole,” and was religiously believed to be the spot above which stood the gallows of the mighty Desmond. If the truth were known, it probably served a much more innocent purpose. There was another relic of antiquity here that was the source of much heated discussion. In the roadway on the bridge, near the western parapet, a stone was placed, scored with what seemed a cup-marking within a half-circle. The popular belief held its ground for years that this was the imprint of Satan's iron-shod foot, as he was about to soar aloft at early morning, after one of his periodic visits to the scene of his former revels. But a ruthless iconoclast came along and cast discredit on the venerable tradition, maintaining that this was the stone with its socket on which one of the gates of the castle revolved. There is a drawing of the castle in “Pacata Hibernia” as it appeared in 1600.

39. Catherine MacCarthy's last days on Loch Lein and burial at Muckross

    Muckross · townland · Kerry · 1582

    In 1582, Catherine, niece of the Earl of Clancar, spent her final days moving between islands on Loch Lein in fear of plunderers during the Desmond rebellion. She was interred in the Monastery of Oirbhealach (Muckross Abbey).

    Read the passage

    “Catherine, daughter of Teige, son of Donal, son of Cormac Ladbrach, the wife of MacMaurice of Kerry, died. She passed her last days upon the Lake of Lein Linfhiaclaigh moving from one island to another, in fear of the plunderers. She was interred in the Monastery of Oirbhealach.” 7

    In his private character the Earl of Clancar does not show to advantage. He was by nature froward and reckless; and was a man of profligate and dissipated habits. It is needless to say that he was also a spend¬ thrift, and his recklessness in this respect paved the way

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 96

40. Collas burn and destroy Eamhain (Emania), royal seat of Ulster

    near Navan · monument · Armagh · 347

    The three Collas, aided by the Fir Domnon, defeated the Ultonians at the battle of Leath Dearg in Fearmaighe, then marched to Eamhain (Emania) and burned and destroyed the city, the royal seat of the kings of Ulster. The Ultonians never inhabited it again, and the Collas seized all land west of Lough Neagh and Oriel in Ulster.

    Read the passage

    327.—Colla-Hais was four years King of Leath Chuin, when Muireadhach Tire banished him and his two brothers into Scotland (A.D- 331). Three hundred brave soldiers accompanied them into Scotland, which were reduced in the course of a year to ten. They returned to Ireland A.D. 332, and submitted themselves to the King’s mercy, to punish them at his own discretion for the death of his father. Muireadhach received them kindly, and gave them lands and other marks of the highest respect. Soon after the three Collas, assisted by seven battallions of the Fir Domnon, or Domnonians, otherwise called Oilneagnacht, fought the battle of Leath Dearg in Fearmaighe against the UHonians, A.D. 347, wherein on the side of the latter fell Feargus Fogha, King of Ulster, and of the former fell Colla Meann. Upon gaining the victory, the Collas, with their helpers, the Oilneagmacht, marched to Eamhain (Emania), burnt and destroyed that beautiful city, the royal seat of the kings of Ulster—so that the Ultonians did never inhabit it from that time—and possessed themselves of all the land west of Lough Neacheach and Orgialla in Ulster,

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 163

41. Dermod of Tralee holds MacCarthy kinsmen captive

    Tralee · townland · Kerry

    After capturing and burning a castle, two MacCarthy brothers were seized by their first cousin Dermod of Tralee and kept in captivity until they were liberated in 1310. One brother, Donall, later joined Edward Bruce's invasion of Ireland and became an ancestor of the Macartneys.

    Read the passage

    (13) They, having captured and burnt the above mentioned Castle, were seized bv Dermod of Tralee, who was their first cousin, and by him kept in capti¬ vity until liberated, as above mentioned, in 1310. Donall, the younger brother, afterwards joined Edward Bruc« in his invasion of Ireland, and subsequently served, under his brother Robert King of Scotland, who gave him a grant of land. He was the ancestors of the Macartneys.

    Digitized by Google

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 159

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Dermod of Tralee seized his own first cousins, two MacCarthy brothers, after they had captured and burnt a castle. He kept them in captivity until they were liberated in 1310. Donall, the younger brother, afterwards joined Edward Bruce in his invasion of Ireland, and served under his brother Robert, King of Scotland, who gave him a grant of land. He was the ancestor of the Macartneys.

42. Donal Mor drives the English from Limerick, 1196

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1196

    In 1196, Donal Mor-na-Curra MacCarthy led his forces against the English garrison at Limerick, defeated them in the field, and drove them out of the city. He then twice repelled their attempts to retake the place that same year.

    Read the passage

    Donal Mor-na-Curra (so called a loco occuionds) the elder son of King Dermod, succeeded without opposition on the death of the latter in 1185. He is said to have been the first of his name who was styled “ MacCarthy Mor.” This title was afterwards used to distinguish the head of the main line from^the Mac- Carthy Reagh, or Carbery branch, though the great disruption of the sept, which led to the formation of the latter branch, did not take place until after Donal Mor’s death, when it was brought about by his third son, Donal Gott, as will be described later on. During Donal Mor’s reign the rivalry of the princes of North and South Munster still continued, notwithstanding the many predatory excursions of the Kings of Connaught (which were aimed at its suppression, but in‘ reality enhanced the desolation and misery already prevailing throughout the country). The first mention made of Donal exhibits him in amity with and under the protection of O’Connor, the titular sovereign of Ireland. We see that MacCarthy of Desmond was “ in his house/’ i.e., acknowledged subjection to him, (») and that O’Connor gave him a great stipend, namely five horses out of every cantred in Connaught. Donal had many conflicts with the English, and in thesq was generally victorious. We see that, in 1196, he led his forces against the English of Limerick. He defeated them in the field, and pursued his advantage till he had driven them out of Limerick. Moreover, he amply confirmed his superiority, by twice defeating, during the same year, their attempts to recover that important place. The Annals of Innisfallen record that, in 1196, Donal Mor-na-Curra destroyed the Castle of Kilfaacle.

    (10) Annals of |bs Four Matters; age of Christ 1189,

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 77

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is the city Donal Mor-na-Curra MacCarthy drove the English from in 1196. He was the elder son of King Dermod, and he succeeded without opposition when his father died in 1185. He was said to be the first of his name styled MacCarthy Mor, a title that later distinguished the head of the main line from the MacCarthy Reagh, or Carbery branch. That great split of the sept came about only after Donal Mor's death, brought on by his third son, Donal Gott. During Donal Mor's reign the rivalry between the princes of North and South Munster went on. The Kings of Connaught made predatory excursions aimed at suppressing it, but in reality they only heightened the desolation and misery across the country. The first mention of Donal shows him in amity with and under the protection of O'Connor, the titular sovereign of Ireland. MacCarthy of Desmond was, as the record puts it, "in his house," meaning he acknowledged subjection. O'Connor gave him a great stipend: five horses out of every cantred in Connaught. Donal had many conflicts with the English and was generally victorious. In 1196 he led his forces against the English of Limerick. He defeated them in the field and pursued his advantage until he had driven them out of the city. He amply confirmed his superiority by twice defeating, during the same year, their attempts to recover that important place. The Annals of Innisfallen also record that in 1196 Donal Mor destroyed the Castle of Kilfaacle.

43. Lady Helen's escape from Cork

    Cork · city · Cork · 1589

    In February 1589, Lady Helen escaped from her custodian in Cork. She and her maid were seen disguised leaving the city at dusk, and were never found despite the Crown's efforts.

    Read the passage

    But then came a sensation scarcely less startling than the marriage. One evening in February, 1589, Lady Helen failed to turn up to her custodian. Active inquiries were instantly made, search parties organised, but the utmost efforts proved unavailing to obtain the slightest hint or suggestion of where the young lady had fled. The only tidings forthcoming were, that two female figures, partly disguised, were seen to pass out of the city at dusk, just before the closing of the gates; they were met by a man who appeared to be loitering in the vicinity; all three passed hastily on, and were soon lost in the darkness; and no more was seen or heard of them. The female figures were believed to have been Lady Helen and her maid, and all the resources of the Crown were fruitless to discover the least clue to their whereabouts afterwards.

    But how had it fared with the Countess in Castle Magne? It is revolting to think of the indignity offered to the wife, the sister, and the daughter of an Earl; and the outrage becomes still more reprehensible when we remember that the author of it was a woman and a Queen. This high-born lady was dragged from her home, and immured in this close prison, surrounded

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 49

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, this is the city Lady Helen slipped out of one February evening in 1589. She had been held here by a custodian, and that evening she failed to appear. Active inquiries were made at once. Search parties were organised. Every effort proved unavailing. The only tidings forthcoming were that two female figures, partly disguised, were seen passing out of the city at dusk, just before the closing of the gates. They were met by a man who appeared to be loitering in the vicinity. All three passed hastily on and were soon lost in the darkness. No more was seen or heard of them. The two figures were believed to have been Lady Helen and her maid, and all the resources of the Crown were fruitless to discover the least clue to their whereabouts afterwards. The material then turns to the Countess in Castle Magne. She was the wife, the sister, and the daughter of an Earl. It is revolting to think of the indignity offered her. She was dragged from her home and immured in a close prison. The outrage becomes more reprehensible when we remember that the author of it was a woman and a Queen.

44. Macroom castle burned and leveled by Irish chieftains

    Macroom · town · Cork · 1261–1273

    Following the MacCarthy victory at the Battle of Callan, Irish chieftains of South Munster burned and leveled the castle at Macroom, along with numerous other castles in the region, and killed their English warders.

    Read the passage

    The Fitzgeralds were so crushed by their defeat at Callan that the MacCarthys had it all their own way for many years afterwards. To quote from the graphic account given by Dr. Hanmer, “The Carties played the Divells in Desmond, where they burned, spoiled, preyed, and slew many an innocent; they became so strong and prevailed so mightily, that for the space (so it is reported) of twelve years the Desmond durst not put plow in ground in his owne country.’* The Irish Chieftains of South Munster burned and levelled the castles of Dun-Mac-Toman, Duninsi, Dunnagall, Cuandore, Dundeady, Dunnalong, Macroom, Muirgioll, Dunnamark, Dunloe, Killorglin, and the greater part of the castles of Hy Conaill Gabhra, and killed their English warders.

    There is no doubt that, for a time, the Fitzgeralds were utterly disabled, and the power of the Mac¬ Carthys was in the ascendant. So it was continued for many years, and doubtless would have continued longer, were it not that, to quote again from Hanmer, “At length, through the operation of Satan, a bane of discord was thrown between the Carties and the Odriscoles, O’Donovans, MacDonagh, MacMahonna, MacSwines, and the inhabitants of Muscrie, in so much that by their cruell dissension they weakened themselves of all sides, so that the Desmond, in the end, overcame and over-topped them all. ,>

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 91

45. Malby dishonours Desmond ancestors' graves at Askeaton

    Askeaton · townland · Limerick · 1579

    After Drury's death, Sir Nicholas Malby entered Desmond's territory, murdered his retainers, and dishonoured the graves of Desmond's ancestors at Askeaton Abbey. This provoked Desmond's protest to the Queen, which was answered by his proclamation as traitor in November 1579.

    Read the passage

    loyalty; still lie was treated as if lie were an avowed enemy. After Drury’s death, Sir Nicholas Malby entered his territory, murdered his retainers, and dishonoured the graves of his ancestors at Askeaton Abbey. Desmond forwarded a memorial to the Queen protesting against this treatment. The reply was that he was proclaimed traitor on the 2nd November, 1579. He now wandered abroad with a price upon his head, and Munster again, for the next four years, was to be the theatre of internecine and inhuman strife.

    But the last had not been heard of a Spanish invasion; and in the spring of 1580 rumours of it were again rife. Andrew Mar.tyn kept clamouring for supplies and for men, but got neither. Castle Magne, the great centre in these parts to which the Queen’s forces in time of stress might turn for assistance, was itself in sad plight for food. The fleet, anchored at Dingle in early spring, was requisitioned to send supplies to the castle; the fleet, however, was suddenly ordered off, and no food arrived. Pelham wrote on the 21st March to Andrew Martyn: “We are disappointed of our victuals by the sudden going “ of the ships from Dingle, but the Earl of Ormond will “visit you this day to take order for your victualling.” On the 3rd April Pelham wrote a letter—and an offensive one—to the Baron of Lixnaw: “I require you not only to convey with all speed and safety this enclosed letter to Andrew Martyn to Castle Magne, but also that you do send unto him such relief of victuals as he shall require.” In like tone, no doubt, were his letters to McCarthy Mor; but Donal, to his credit, took little notice of the man. Martyn could not get on without food, however, and getting none, he made his complaint to the Council in London; they ordered Pelham to see to the fortress at .once. Pelham assured them he had given directions to McCarthy Mor and to Fitzmaurice to victual the place, and that Ormond was coming from Cork with stores.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 23

46. Ormond's reconnaissance and Andrew Martyn's death near Fort del Ore

    Smerwick · townland · Kerry · 1580

    The Earl of Ormonde led a small reconnaissance party toward the Spanish fort at Smerwick, but was met by over a hundred Italians who fired muskets. Andrew Martyn, Constable of Castle Magne, was shot dead, and Ormond was forced to retreat for want of victuals and munitions, leaving six captured Spanish stragglers at Castle Magne.

    Read the passage

    Ormond beat a hasty retreat. He writes: “I tooke a few of my company with me to take a view of the forte, and drawing near them, there issued from the forte one hundred and twelve Italians and bestowed musket shot on me, at which time Andrew Martyn, Constable of Castle- Magne, being with me was slain. . . . Want of

    victual, great ordnance, and munitions forced me to leave the place. . . I left six Spaniards at Castel Magne to

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 25

47. St. Brendan's Landing and the Cursed Creek

    near Valencia Island · island or archipelago · Kerry

    St. Brendan landed at a creek near Colloo Head on Valentia Island, blessing the waters so they abounded with fish. The creek later became barren after locals succumbed to the temptation of Sabbath-breaking and neglected Mass.

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    The little creek, near the present Colloo Head, by which St. Brendan landed on the Island, received from him a special blessing on the occasion, as the tradition tells, so that ever after it abounded in shoals of excellent fish, and became the favourite fishing ground of the islanders, until, within the memory of some now living in the neighbourhood, the great supply of fish there proved for many too strong a temptation to profane the Lord’s day, and led to Sabbath-breaking and neglect of Mass by the fishermen, which brought on the waters of the creek the curse of barrenness, which clings to them at the present day.” The miraculous steps at Coosheenadogallaun are still to be seen (see figure 6), and are used

    Figure 6 From photo by E. T. B.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 161

48. Treacherous siege of Carriganass castle

    Carriganass · townland · Cork · 1642

    The fortress of Carriganass on the Bandon river was defended by Dermod MacCarthy in 1642. He feigned surrender, fired on a boat crossing the river, and was subsequently overpowered by the Bandonians with great loss of life.

    Read the passage

    After this reverse at Knockagarane, the MacCarthys did not offer much determined resistance. With the excep¬ tion of the fortress of Carriganass (held by Dermod Mac- Carthy, and a considerable garrison for the Irish, and his Chieftain, MacCarthy Reagh), which was stubbornly de¬ fended, but ultimately overpowered with great loss of life, all the others fell into the hands of the Bandonians. Re¬ garding this castle of Carriganass, which stood on the Bandon river, Bennett states that Dermod MacCarthy, on being called on to surrender it, at first stoutly refused. When, however, the enemy proceeded to cannonade it, he hung out a white flag, as if intimating his desire to surrender. The Bandon men put off a boat with a party to arrange the terms; but, when it was half wav across the river, the be¬ sieged suddenly opened fire, killing two of the passengers, sinking the boat, and even firing at the crew struggling in the water, some of whom they wounded. Infuriated by their act of treachery, the Bandonians lost no time in bringing their big gun to bear, with destructive effect, on the towers and battlements of the castle, and poured forth a murderous discharge of musketry. The retributive vengeance of the besiegers was, as Bennett states, 4 ‘terrible, and extended itself even to those who had any signs of life remaining.”

    There is a contemporary account of this siege given in a letter from a certain Tristram Whetcombe, a merchant of Kinsale and Mayor of that town in 1642, to his brother Benjamin, a London merchant. This letter is inserted in a paper by J. F. Fuller, Esq., entitled “Kinsale in 1641

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 178

49. Young Desmond heir arrives in Youghal

    Youghal · town · Cork · 1600

    James, son of Gerald of Glounaneenta, arrived in Youghal on 14th October 1600 after sixteen years imprisoned in the Tower of London. As he passed through Youghal, Cork, and Mallow, the people greeted him with delight and hope, though he was heavily guarded.

    Read the passage

    This is not without its pathos, with which we could sympathise if it had not been for its chilling reference to a “faulty father.” “He took his way to Bristol, whence when tide and wind served, with his horses and armour, his nurse (!) and sister, he took ship for Cork. He arrived in Youghal 14th October, 1600. As he passed through Youghal, and Cork, and Mallow, the people were in a perfect frenzy of delight. He must possess the noble spirit of that princely house, they thought, and all were filled with pity and hope which as yet they dared not breathe. He is now in England hands; but when he is free he will defy Saxon power, and say, as did his great father, “ No Cessor, nor Constable, nor Sheriff shall ever exercise theire office in my contreye.” He was guarded with as much care as a caged lion, and supplied with a host of keepers. Is he destined to escape from their hands, and raise aloft the dread Geraldine standard once more in Munster? Such were the thoughts in many minds. Negotiations were immedi¬ ately set on foot for the recovery of Castle Magne. We

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 52

50. Abbot O'Torna killed at Lixnaw Castle door

    Lixnaw · town · Kerry · 1577

    During the 1577 conflict, the young abbot O'Torna, having joined the Earl of Desmond, was killed by a ball shot at the castle door of Lixnaw. He has been identified by the parish priest of Ardfert as the Abbot of O'Dorney, a Cistercian Abbey.

    Read the passage

    “ A contention arose between the Earl of Desmond, i.e. Gerald the son of James, son of John, and Fitzmaurice of Kerry, namely Thomas, son of Edmond, son of Thomas, and the Earl took Bally-ilic-an-Chaim (in Kerry) from Fitzmaurice. The young abbot O’Torna having joined the Earl, was killed in the castle door of Lixnaw, by a ball shot after the earl had entered the castle, and had there been no other evil done between them than the death of that abbot, the loss would have been great enough. A great number of Fitzmaurice’s people were killed and drowned the same day; they carried on this conflict for a considerable time, until at length they made peace, and Bally-Mac-an-Chaim, to-

    Digitized by

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 101

51. Ceallachan captures Clonmacnoise and other monastic sites

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 936–941

    In 936 Ceallachan ('Callaghan Cashel') took possession of Clon-Mac-Nois in Meath, and in 939 seized Cluain-Irard, Cluain Aineach, and Cill-aice, carrying off rich spoils. He later turned against the Danes who had invaded Decies and Ossory.

    Read the passage

    him his “tanist,” and had given him the command of the provincial troops. In this capacity Ceallachan rendered important services. In 936 he took possession of Clon-Mac-Nois, in Meath, and in 939 of Cluain-Irard, Cluain Aineach, aid Cill-aice, from which he carried off a rich spoil. In the last expedition he was aided by a body of Danes; but from 941 he turned his arms against those foreigners, who had invaded the province of Decies and Derkaferna, in Ossory. He slew some 2,000 of them. These successes were, however, followed by heavy reverses. Murtagh, son of Niall Glanduff, a former Monarch of Ireland, in order to avenge the depredations committed by Callaghan in Meath some years previously, made a sudden descent on Cashel, took Callaghan prisoner, and delivered him over to Donogh, son of Elann Siona, then Monarch of Ireland. The illustrious captive w'as, however, soon released.

    On Callaghan’s accession to the throne of Munster, and to that of “ Leath Mogha,” there appeared on the scene a formidable competitor, in the person of Kennedy, King of Thomond, father of the celebrated Brian Boru. Kennedy, on hearing of Flahertach’s death, convoked all the States of the Kingdom at Gleannamhain, and put forward his claims. But the mother of Callaghan, appearing at the assembly, advocated the rights of her son so clearly and fearlessly, and at the same time so pathetically, that the Prince of Thomond was quite won over, and generously admitted the justice of her argu¬ ments. According to some annalists, it would appear that the contest between the rival claimants was not decided on bloodlessly, and that it was only after a hardfought battle and victory at Magh Duine that Callaghan secured his seat on the throne. But whether this was so or not, it is certain that he and Kennedy were ever after steadfast friends and allies.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 67

52. Comparison of Castle Magne's Fortitude with Other Castles

    Carrigafoyle · townland · Kerry · 1572

    The text contrasts the resilience of Castle Magne with other major fortresses. Carrigafoyle, with its deep moat and double wall, fell in two days, while Castle Magne, lacking outposts, held for over five weeks against Perrott's forces.

    Read the passage

    number perhaps thirty. Sir William Herbert, of whom we shall hear again, and who knew the place well, remarks of it, “ The number it could contain was so small as to be insufficient to resist an attacking force of any consequence.” Now, however, a brave general, with a considerable force, prepares to take it, and hang its thirty men. Every breach has been carefully repaired. Somewhat better weapons are provided, though probably not more than ten of the Ward have muskets; the remainder are archers. There is no mention of cannon. One sad want remains, however. It was still early for the harvest, and provisions are scarce, perhaps the appearance of Perrott was unexpected. From what¬ ever cause, their store of supplies is not as ample as would be desired. Still the Ward’s secret to themselves, and they make welcome, we may be satisfied, with cheers, each contingent as it arrives. Perrott thinks, can no way be discovered for its reduction besides direct and tedious blockade ? He brings his cannon on the river bank above the bridge, and pounds at the walls over the buttresses. One stone dislodged here would be sure beginning of the end, but one stone he cannot dislodge. Weeks pass, and with all his resources Perrott is making no headway. The strong castle of Glen was taken by Carew in a few days. Carrigafoyle, surrounded by a deep moat and double wall, and defended by more than sixty men, is carried in two days. Castle Magne, without outposts or walls of defence of any sort, is perfectly secure after five weeks. Six weeks pass, and Perrott redoubles his energy. His thoughts can take no other course than think, and plan, and act for the reduction of the castle. Everybody is anxious to know the fate of Castle Magne, but no word of news from Perrott. Lord Burleigh writes in August, “ Perrott is besieging Castle Magne since the beginning of June, and I have not since got any word from him.” Seven weeks are over, and the Ward set the besiegers at

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Carrigafoyle, a castle with a deep moat and double wall fell in two days in 1572, while a castle with no walls at all held for over five weeks against the same commander. Perrott besieged Castle Magne from the beginning of June. Sir William Herbert, who knew the place well, said of it, "The number it could contain was so small as to be insufficient to resist an attacking force of any consequence." The garrison numbered perhaps thirty men. Every breach had been repaired. About ten had muskets, the rest were archers, and there is no mention of cannon. Provisions were scarce, the harvest still early, and Perrott's appearance may have been unexpected. The ward kept their shortage secret and cheered each contingent as it arrived. Perrott brought his cannon to the river bank above the bridge and pounded at the walls over the buttresses. One stone dislodged there would be the beginning of the end, but one stone he could not dislodge. Weeks passed, and with all his resources Perrott made no headway. The strong castle of Glen was taken by Carew in a few days. Carrigafoyle, surrounded by a deep moat and double wall, defended by more than sixty men, was carried in two days. Castle Magne, without outposts or walls of defence of any sort, was perfectly secure after five weeks. Six weeks passed and Perrott redoubled his energy. Lord Burleigh wrote in August, "Perrott is besieging Castle Magne since the beginning of June, and I have not since got any word from him." Seven weeks were over, and the ward had set the besiegers at — but the record breaks off there.

53. Cormac MacCarthy's pilgrimage to Lismore

    Lismore · town · Waterford · 1123–1127

    After being dethroned by Turlogh O'Connor and Donogh MacCarthy around 1123-1127, Cormac MacCarthy was obliged to go on a pilgrimage to Lismore and take a staff there, while Donogh was inaugurated as King in his place. Conor O'Brien later led a force to Lismore to restore Cormac to his throne.

    Read the passage

    commenced by him, some iime in or after 1127, and completed in 1134. Cormac was most munificent in bis donations to that and other cburcbes. None tbe less was be a stern and stubborn assertor of his rights; and most of his life was spent in sanguinary struggles to uphold them. In 1124, the year of his accession, we learn, from the Annals of Innisfalien, that a plundering army was led into Munster by Turlogh O’Connor, King of Connaught, who slew the hostages of Desmind, amongst whom was Maelseaghlin, the son of Cormac MacCarthy, King of Cashel. He defeated Cormac and burned his camp at Sliabh-Caitligh. Further, Turlogh, in conjunction with Donogh Mac¬ Carthy (Cormac’s brother), dethroned the latter, so that he was obliged to go on a pilgrimage to Lismore, and take a staff there; Donogh being inaugurated as King in his place. < 6 ) Those operations against Cormac seem to have extended from 1123 to 1127. Donogh’s treason¬ able conduct towards his brother was generally con¬ demned, even by the O’Briens. Their Chief, Conor O’Brien, led a force to Lismore, and bringing back the deposed prince, restored him to his throne. An account of this transaction is given by St. Bernard in his Life of St. Malachy, in the following terms:

    “ Conchobarus O’Brien, videns quse facta sunt, et hinc quidem indignans pnedonuin libertati et insolentise superborum; inde miseratus Regni desolationem et Regis dejectionem, descendit ad cellulam pauperis cui Cormachus, accedente mandato Episcopi et Malacliiae consilio vix tandeon acquievit pulsis prsedonibus, reducitur in sua cum exsultatione suorum Regnogue restuitur suo.”

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 74

54. Danes land on west coast of Munster and plunder monasteries in 815

    Durnish · townland · Limerick · 815

    In 815, the Danes landed at Caomh-Inis-Obhrathach on the west coast of Munster with sixty ships and a large army. They plundered the coast, pillaged Inis Labhraine and Dair Inis, and burned towns and monasteries before being routed by King Airtre, who killed 416 of their men.

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    Airtre, son of Cathal Gionach, succeeded Tuathal as twenty-fourth Christian King of Munster. His reign was memorable for the hostile appearance during it of the Danes in Ireland. In 815 they landed at a place called Caomh-Inis-Obhrathach, on the west coast of Munster, with sixty sail and a large army. They plundered the coast and pillaged Inis Labhraine and Dair Inis, reducing to ashes all towns and monasteries which fell in their way. Airtre, on reading of these atrocities, hastened to raise an army for the defence of the country. He gave battle to the barbarous invaders, whom he completely routed, after killing 416 of their men. The Danes took to flight, and under cover of the darkness of the night managed to escape. They then precipitately re-embarked for their own country.

    Feidlim, the son of Criomthan, succeeded to the throne of the two Munsters in 807. The Danes W'ho had fled back to their own country on their defeat by Airtre, after a time returned with another powerful fleet, which landed on the coast of Munster with a pitiless horde of barbarians, who forthwith proceeded to commit wholesale devastation. Feidlim marched against them with a large army, and inflicted on them a crushing defeat, with great loss of life, and forced the survivors to fly the country. Having thus disposed of the foreigners, Feidlim turned his attention to his Irish enemies. He waged war on Cathal, the son of Olioll, King of Hy Maine, and ultimately defeated the Connacians in 832 at the battle of Easroid. He also reduced to subjection the people of Hy Nial and Brefney, and was victorious over Nial Caille, the Monarch of Ireland. It is said that Feidlim, at the end of his life, being remorseful for the ravages committed

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 66

55. Desmond petitions for restoration of Castle Magne

    Castlemaine · town · Kerry · 1578

    On 15th February 1578, Desmond petitioned to be restored to possession of Castle Magne and for certain abbey lands in Kerry to be granted to him. The petition was refused by the Council of England, with Burleigh noting it was not convenient for the castle to be restored to the Earl or any subject.

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    Earl was naturally anxious to recover his former power and influence, and as not a single fort of importance remained with him, he longed to recover Castle Magne. Accordingly, on the 15th February, 1578, he “petitioned to be restored to the possession of Castle Magne, and that certayn abbey lands belonging to Her Majesty in Kerry be granted to him and his heirs for ever in fee-farm.” Desmond was evidently not aware of the importance the Government had learned to attach to this stronghold. After Sir John Perrott had returned to England in 1573 he was ordered by the Queen to make a report of the state of this Province. This he did, and among the “ necessarie considerations for the quiette mayntayning of the State of Munster” is the following—“That the Castle of the Magne may be re-edified, which will be done with one 200 markes ( u i charge, and that the Priory of Kylla ( lfl ) be annexed to it, whereby it will mayntayn the Captain and twelve men, defraying her Majestie’s charge for the keeping thereof, which should not be suffered to pass from the crowne, because it will always master Kerrie and the Earl of Clancartie’s country.” “This advice seems to have been duly attended to,” says a writer in the “ Kerry Magazine,” “ and so the petition of Desmond lies in the State Paper Office with a note on it in Burleigh’s own hand:—

    * The Council of Englonde doth not think it convenient, for sondrie good consideracions that the said Castel be restored to the possession of the Erie, or of anie subject.’ ”

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 23

56. Fitzmaurice garrisons Castle Magne, besieged by Lord President

    Castlemaine · town · Kerry

    James Fitzmaurice planted soldiers in Castle Magne, which produced a long and costly siege by the Lord President (Perrott) to retake it. The castle was described as nearly impregnable—unscaleable from without, unmineable from below, and only batterable at excessive cost.

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    Herbert next tackled Spring. He wrote three elaborate letters to show that the cost of keeping Castle Magne was money lost, and that the castle should be levelled to the ground. The pay of the Constable was 3s. a day, of four horsemen 9d. each, and of 13 foot soldiers 8d. each. If the castle was razed it would mean a considerable saving to the Queen, but would also mean that Spring’s occupation and 3s. a day were gone. Herbert gave solid reasons to show it ought to be razed. He went back to the siege of the castle by Perrott. “The soldiers planted in that castle by that Arch Traitor James •Fitzmaurice did produce the long, chargeable, and troublesome siege the then Lord President did win it by, it not being from

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    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 27

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up is Castlemaine in Kerry. Castle Magne once stood here. James Fitzmaurice, called an Arch Traitor in the record, planted soldiers in it, provoking "the long, chargeable, and troublesome siege" the Lord President Perrott fought to win it back. The castle was nearly impregnable — unscaleable from without, unmineable from below, and batterable only at excessive cost. After it was recovered, Herbert wrote three elaborate letters arguing it should be levelled to the ground, since keeping it was money lost. The constable's pay was 3 shillings a day, four horsemen got 9 pence each, and 13 foot soldiers got 8 pence each. Razing it would save the Queen money, but would also end Spring's occupation and his 3 shillings a day.

57. FitzThomas ambushed near Aherlow in Tipperary

    near Aherlow · population centre · Tipperary · 1600

    James FitzThomas, proceeding with weakened forces from Gouncloe to the fastnesses of Aherlow in Tipperary, was set upon by Captain Graeme's cavalry. His son and sixty men were slain, and baggage and cattle were lost, ending his ability to meet the Queen's forces in open battle.

    Read the passage

    may well believe Carew had already made overtures to Thomas Oge for the surrender of the castle. In a letter to Cecil he declared his hopes that the Queen’s Earl will prevail with the Constable to yield up the place, and added, “but yf it fayle I doubt not by another stratagemine to regaine the same.” This man of wiles did not explain the nature of “another stratagemine.’’ Would Thomas Oge be true to his charge? Fitz- Thomas’s fortunes were declining. O’Neill, in the North, pressed by Ormond, withdrew some of his men from FitzThomas, and as the latter was proceeding with attenuated forces from Gouncloe to the fastnesses of Aherloe, in Tipperary, he was set upon by Captain Graeme and a company of cavalry, when his son, with some officers and sixty men, were slain, besides the loss of baggage and cattle. After this FitzThomas was unable to meet the Queen’s forces in the open field. The Constable at Castle Maine apparently remained true to FitzThomas; he was well supplied with provisions, having laid tribute on the country round in the name of his master. However, he received friendly messages from the Queen’s Earl—son of his former friend and leader—the great Gerald, for whom he had so often risked life and fortune, and perhaps on whose honoured grave he laid the last sod of earth at Kilananamagh. Thomas Oge had many sins to be forgiven by Her Majesty, and he was assured, though not officially, that all his transgressions would be condoned if he gave up Castle Magne to his friend’s son.

    There were at the castle, for protection, two sons of Pierce Lacy, the daring rebel who many a time and oft worked havoc among the Queen’s forces. They were now orphans, their father having been hanged at Limerick by orders of Ormond. It was ascertained also that all FitzThomas’s private correspondence was stored away in Castle Magne These and other things enhanced the value of the prize, if Thomas Oge could be got to prove false to the Sougan Earl. Thomas Oge was again approached on behalf of Gerald’s son ? and a private and

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 53

58. Founding of Muckross Abbey by Cormac MacCarthy Mor

    Muckross · townland · Kerry · 1340

    Cormac MacCarthy Mor (b. 1271, d. 1359) is believed to have been the original founder of the Franciscan Abbey of Irrelagh, now called Muckross Abbey, erected in 1340 according to the Annals of the Four Masters. The Annals attribute the founding to Donal son of Teige MacCarthy, but this is likely an error due to later rebuilding by a descendant of the same name.

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    Donal Oge’s successor was his son Cormac Mac- Carthy Mor (b. 1271, d. 1359). He seems to have been the original founder of the Franciscan Abbey of Irrelagh 2 , now called Muckross Abbey. According to the Annals of the Four Masters it was erected in 1340. If this date be correct—and there seems no reason to doubt it—it iflust have been built in Cormac’s reign, and founded by him. The Four Masters, however, say that the Abbey was founded by “Donal son of Teige MacCarthy.” This seems to be an error, which is probably due to the fact that the Abbey, erected in 1340, was, more than a century afterwards, rebuilt or altered or repaired by Cormac’s great-grandson, Donalan-Daim son of Teige-na-Mainistreach. Such errors in the Christian names of persons occur here and there in these Annals, which, however, are mainly correct on the point of dates. Cormac MacCartliy Mor died in 1359. He had married Honoria the daughter of Maurice Fitzmaurice, the sixth Lord of Kerry, by whom he had several sons, many of whom, like the sons of his great-grandfather, Cormac Fioun, became founders of important branches of the family. Their names are as follows—(1) Teige, Prince of Desmond, who left only a daughter named Catherine; (2) Finghin, or Florence, Prince of Desmond, who was defeated in 1350 at Rinna Roin by Miles de Courcey, Baron of Kinsale, and, with a party of his followers, drowned himself in the river Bandon. This prince had erected, in the cemetery of Clonmacnoise, a tower and a chapel both called after the MacCarthys; (3) Donal, of whom we treat pre¬ sently; (4) Dermod Mor, created Lord of Muskerry in 1353, and ancestor of the Lords of Muskerry and Earls of Clancarthy; (5) Eoghan, ancestor of the Lords of Cosli-Maing; (6) Donogh a quo the MacCarthys of Ardcanaghty; (7) Donal Buidhe.

    (2) Oir Bhealach (i e the Eastern Road or Pass). Tbe tradition goes that tho McCarthy Mor of the time, being desirous to found an Abbey, was warned in a vision not to erect it anywhere but at Carrig an-cheoill (i e the Rock of Music) Not knowing the locality he sent persons to find out where it was. The messengers searched for some timo in vain, and were returning in despair, when, passing by Oir Bhealach they heard most enchanting mu?ic issuing from a rock which they concluded was the locality sought for. MacCartby being satisfied that it was forthwith commenced the erection ef the Abbey on that site.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 92

59. Statute of Kilkenny bans Irish pipers and bards

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1367

    The Statute of Kilkenny in 1367 made it a penal offence to entertain Irish bards, pipers, or harpers, reflecting the colonial administration's attempt to suppress Irish cultural practices.

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    by the Statute of Kilkenny, in 1367 it was made a penal offence to entertain Irish bards, pipers, or harpers.

    The “Piob Mor” was known on the Continent also, as it is on record that they led the charge of the Irish troops at Calais 1346, Harfleur 1415, Boulogne 1540, and Rouen 1618; and there is to be seen in Vienna a painting by Dtirer, dated 1514, of an Irish piper.

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 205

60. Battle of Bealach Leachta near Macroom ends Eugenian rule

    Macroom · town · Cork · 978

    The battle of Bealach Leachta, near Macroom, was fought between Brian Boru and Maolmuadh, who fell there along with 1,200 men of both Gaels and Galls. With Maolmuadh's death ended the long succession of Eugenian monarchs who had occupied the throne of Munster for centuries.

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    Maolmuadh was head of the clan called “ Eoghanact Ui Eachach, who in after times assumed the name O'Mahony, and was descended from Cas, younger brother of Nadfraoch, son of Core. Mahon, the son of Kennedy, King of Thomond, and brother of Brian Boru, was, at the time of Maolmuadh’s accession, occupied in fighting the Danes. When he had succeeded in freeing his country from their thraldom, he turned his attention to the Irish tribes. He made an expedition against Maolmuadh, carried away his hostages, and ultimately, in 970, succeeded in ousting him from the sovereignty of Munster. Mahon held it for six years. At the end of that time a confederacy was formed against him by Maolmuadh, Donovan son of Cahall, and the Danish chiefs Imar of Limerick and his son Dubhgen. Mahon, being treacherously seized by Donovan in the latter's house, into which he had been inveigled, was delivered up to Maolmuadh, and by him slain. Maolmuadh now resumed the sovereignty, and held it for two years. Then came retribution and the battle of Bealach Leachta, near Macroom, where Maolmuadh fell fighting against Brian, and with him 1,200 men, composed of both “ Gaels " and “Galls," whom he had enlisted on his side. With him ended the long succession of Eugenian monarchs who had exclusively occupied the throne of Munster for so many centuries.

    It will be observed that the arrangement, said to have been made by Olioll Olum, whereby the sovereignty of Munster should be held alternately by the Eugenians and Dalcassians, was not carried into effect, but from the death of Mogh Corb, the son of Cormac Cas, down to the accession of Mahon, son of Kennedy, the throne was occupied exclusively by the Eugenians, the progeny of Cormac Cas during all that time trusting to the sovereignty of Thomond. Now, some doubt whether euch an arrangement or will was ever made. On the whole, it is not improbable that Olioll Olum did make some such disposition, but he must have been of a sanguine temperament if he expected that it would be

    Internet Archive kerryarchaeologicalmagazine, Chapter 67