Limerick, its history and antiquities; ecclesiastical, civil, and military,from the earliest ages, with copious historical, archaeological, topographical, and genealogical notes

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. Croom castle built by Dermot O'Donovan

   Croom · town · Limerick

   Croom castle was built by Dermot O'Donovan in the reign of King John to protect the ford and property wrested from the M'Eneirys. The O'Donovans were later driven out and fled to Cork, and the Earl of Kildare rebuilt the castle and made it his principal seat.

   Read the passage

   Croom, a market and post-town, distant from Limerick nine miles, S.W. on tlie Cork and Limerick direct railway, beautifully situated on the eastern bank of tlie Maigue, over which is a handsome bridge of six arches. A place of importance and high antiquity. The castle was built by Dermot O'Donovan in the reign of King John, to protect the ford and the

   Eroperty newly wrested by O'Donovan from the M'Eneirys, and said to ave been secured to him by King John, when Earl of Moreton. The O'Donovans having been driven out, and having fled to Cork, the castle

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 428

2. Curraheen well — druid's javelin spring

   Curraheen · townland · Limerick

   A spring at the north-east foot of Knocklong hill, said to have been created when a druid shot a javelin into the air during a drought afflicting a king's troops. The well still flows in the author's time.

   Read the passage

   On the summit of the hill, in a field to the south west, there is a lime stone dallan about four feet thirteen inches thick. It stands now on the edge of a lime-stone precipice, and is in peril. Nothing is known of its history. A countryman who accosted me with a " God save you, Sir", pointed out on a plain to the north-west where the king, he said, had encamped. He did not know who the king was, but he believed he was king of the " Dandonians". He said the troops were terribly distressed for water in consequence of a great drought, but that a druid relieved them by shooting up a sleagh or javelin into the air, and where it fell there flowed out a beautifiil spring of water, which still flows. This is the well of Curraheen, at the north-east foot of the hill. From the foot of the hill also, on to Emly, in the east, whose spire was plainly visible to me from where I stood, had been, for a long time, one broad lake. Another person told me that where the druid stood was on Sliabh Riach, at the south, the dark heathy ridge which bounded my view in that direction. Between me and the Galtees he pointed out the hill of Dun Tri Liag, as also Clareen, two miles to the west.

   On the plain at some short distance from the foot of the hill, we visited a moat, a structure to be scarcely met with in Cork or Kerry. It is a variety of the lios, which it nearly altogether supersedes in the midland counties. This moat is called Lios Cnoc Luinga, or the Lios of Knocklong. Jt has no rampart, but is surrounded with a deep fosse. The area is about fifty-six feet diameter, and the mound itself about twenty feet in height, from bottom to fosse. The gap is at the south-east.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 433

3. Death of King Criomthan near Limerick, 334

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 334

   The Great Crunthaun (Criomthan), a renowned ancient King of Ireland of the line of Heber, died near Limerick in A.D. 334. His death was caused by his sister Mung Fionn, who poisoned him to secure the crown for her son Brian, and who herself perished from the same dose at Innis Dongulas.

   Read the passage

   An early record of the name of Limerick is contained in the Annals of the Four Masters,^ where in the 15th year of King Cormac (A.D. 221) a battle, we are told, was fought here. A battle, at the same time was fought at a place which is supposed to be the HiU of Grian, over PaUasgrene, m the barony of Coonagh, Co. Limerick.^ In a century afterwards, viz. in the year 334, the Great Crunthaun, one of the most remarkable of the ancient Kings of Ireland, a descendant from Oliall OUum of the line of Heber, died in Limerick. This king succeeded Eochaidh Moighmeodhin upon the throne, reigned seventeen years, carried his name into Britain in the reign of Valentinian, where he was aided by the Picts, who were then his tributaries, — thence sailing to Armorica, now Bretagne, in France, he plundered that country, and returned with great booty and hostages to Ireland."* He is also mentioned by others of our early annalists and historians, and the occasion of his death is related as having been caused by the wickedness of his sister, who administered to him a dose of poison.*

   Lovely and attractive for the charms with which even in far distant times it was surrounded. Limerick, soon after the arrival in Ireland of the Apostle St. Patrick, received the inestimable blessing of Christianity. We are told that in the year 434, the first district which St. Patrick visited, after his departure from Cashel, was the extensive flat portion of country between Cashel and Limerick called Muscrighe Breogain. The apostle founded several

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 9

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up through Limerick now. In the year 334, one of the most remarkable of the ancient kings of Ireland died here. They called him the Great Crunthaun, or Criomthan. He was a descendant of Olloll Olum, of the line of Heber, and he succeeded Eochaidh Moighmeodhin upon the throne. He reigned seventeen years. He carried his name into Britain in the reign of Valentinian, aided by the Picts, who were then his tributaries. From there he sailed to Armorica, now Bretagne in France, plundered that country, and returned to Ireland with great booty and hostages. Early annalists and historians mention him. The occasion of his death was caused by the wickedness of his sister, Mung Fionn, who administered to him a dose of poison. She did it to secure the crown for her son Brian. She herself perished from the same dose at Innis Dongulas. The Annals of the Four Masters also record that in the 15th year of King Cormac, in the year 221, a battle was fought here, and another at the same time at the Hill of Grian, over Pallasgrene, in the barony of Coonagh.

4. Dispute between Augustinians, Dominicans, and Franciscans in Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1736–1755

   In 1736 the Dominicans and Franciscans of Limerick complained to Bishop O'Keeffe that the Augustinian Hermits had settled in the city without title. After appeals to Cashel, the Primate of Armagh, and Propaganda, the Augustinians retained their chapel and continued to officiate.

   Read the passage

   In 1736 the Dominicans and Franciscans of Limerick applied to Dr. O'Keeffe, the bishop, for redress against the Hermits of St. Augustine, who, as they alleged, had settled themselves in the city without having any title for so doing, asserting they never had a convent of their order in the city. The bishop, attended by his secular clergy, often examined both parties on the merits of this affair, and ultimately passed sentence against the Augustinians. The Augustinians appealed to Cashel, and from thence to the Primate of Armagh. The Dominicans and Franciscans would not acknowledge the Primate's jurisdiction in Limerick, and therefore they appealed to the Sacred Congregation de Propaganda; but notwithstanding their appeal, the Primate's commissary in absence of the contending parties, pronounced a sentence of absolution in favour of the Augustinians, who, by virtue thereof, opened their chapel, and ever since continued to officiate in the city. In some time after, the Augustinians produced a decree of the Holy Congregation, declaring their censures suspended usque ad exitum causae; they required this decree in their favour to be published in all the chapels, which Dr. John Lehy, the Vicar- General, refused doing, as the Congregation did not send the decree to him. However, the Augustinians still continued to have their chapel open and ofiiciated in town equally with the rest of the friars in 1755.'

   In 1778 the Hermits of St. Augustine erected a neat chapel and chapelhouse in Creagh Lane, which they occupied until 1823. Their community were never less than three, and were sometimes four. Their chapel was the first in the city in which an organ was erected.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 370

   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead, the road takes you through Limerick, where in 1736 a bitter church dispute played out among the religious orders. The Dominicans and Franciscans went to Dr. O'Keeffe, the bishop, complaining that the Hermits of St. Augustine had settled in the city without any title, insisting the Augustinians had never had a convent of their order there. The bishop, with his secular clergy, examined both parties repeatedly and ultimately ruled against the Augustinians. They would not accept it. The Augustinians appealed to Cashel, then to the Primate of Armagh. The Dominicans and Franciscans refused to acknowledge the Primate's jurisdiction in Limerick, so they appealed to the Sacred Congregation de Propaganda in Rome. Despite that, the Primate's commissary, in the absence of the contending parties, pronounced absolution in favour of the Augustinians. By virtue of that sentence they opened their chapel and continued to officiate in the city. The Augustinians later produced a decree from the Holy Congregation declaring their censures suspended, and they demanded it be read in all the chapels. Dr. John Lehy, the Vicar-General, refused, because the Congregation had not sent the decree to him. Still, the Augustinians kept their chapel open, officiating in 1755 alongside the other friars. In 1778 they built a chapel in Creagh Lane and stayed there until 1823. Their community was never fewer than three, and they were the first in the city to put an organ in a chapel.

5. Donough O'Brien buried in Dominican Convent, Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1241

   Donough Carbraigh O'Brien, founder of the Dominican monastery in Limerick and Prince of Thomond, died on 8 March 1241. While Ware states he was interred in Killaloe, O'Heyne and others assert he was buried in the Dominican Convent he founded in Limerick.

   Read the passage

   It was he who also built the noble Cistertian Monastery of Holy Cross in the County of Tipperary. Ware states that he was interred in Killaloe ; but it is positively asserted by O'Heyne and others that he was buried in the Dominican Convent which he founded in Limerick. In the church of the same monastery was buried Hubert de Burgo, Bishop of Limerick, who died on the 15th of September, 1250. Hubert's ancestor was called pugnator, the " expugnator", because after his arrival in Ireland with Henry II., he subjected Connaught to the power of its new masters. He married, in the first instance, a daughter of the King of England, and afterwards a daughter of the great Donald O'Brien, who was the last king of Cashel.^ There were, besides, three bishops of Killaloe buried in this monastery, namely, Donald O'Kennedy, in the year 1252, Mathew O'Hoghain in the month of August, 1281, and Mathew MacCrath on the 1st of September, 1391. There were also interred in the same monastery the following bishops of Kilfenora: Christianus, in the year 1254, Simon O'Curriu in the year 1303, and Maurice O'Brien, in the year 1321. The fact of Hubert's burial in the Dominican Friary is stated in the ancient calendar of the order, and in the Black Book, v/hilst in confirmation of the fact as to the interment of the six bishops, we have it on the authority of an ancient sepulchral inscription which existed formerly in the archives of the monastery, and which was preserved in Latin, and which is in the Book of the Friars Preachers above quoted, the translation of which is thus given in Ware's Bishops :

   Six prelates here do lie, and in their favour

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 372

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, this is the city where Donough Carbraigh O'Brien, Prince of Thomond, founded a Dominican convent. He died on 8 March 1241. Where he was buried became a matter of dispute. Ware states he was interred in Killaloe, but O'Heyne and others positively assert he was buried in the Dominican Convent he founded here in Limerick. Donough also built the Cistercian Monastery of Holy Cross in County Tipperary. The same Dominican monastery held other notable burials. Hubert de Burgo, Bishop of Limerick, who died on 15 September 1250, was buried in its church. Hubert's ancestor was called expugnator, because after his arrival in Ireland with Henry II, he subjected Connaught to the power of its new masters. He married first a daughter of the King of England, and afterwards a daughter of the great Donald O'Brien, the last king of Cashel. Three bishops of Killaloe were buried in this monastery: Donald O'Kennedy in 1252, Mathew O'Hoghain in August 1281, and Mathew MacCrath on 1 September 1391. Three bishops of Kilfenora were also interred there: Christianus in 1254, Simon O'Curriu in 1303, and Maurice O'Brien in 1321. An ancient sepulchral inscription, preserved in Latin in the archives of the monastery, confirmed the burial of the six bishops. Ware's Bishops gave the translation, beginning: "Six prelates here do lie, and in their favour."

6. Elizabeth grants Iniscattery and Salmon Weir to Limerick

   Scattery Island · townland · Clare · 1583

   In 1583, Queen Elizabeth granted the Salmon Weir, the Island of Iniscattery in the Shannon with twenty-four acres, a house and castle, plus customs of oyster and herring boats, to the Mayor and citizens of Limerick in perpetuity at an annual rent of £3 12s. 8d.

   Read the passage

   1583 Queen Elizabeth granted the Salmon Weir, the Island of Iniscattery, in the Shannon, with twenty-four acres of land, a house and castle in the island, to the Mayor and citizens of Limerick for ever, and their successors, at the annual rent of £3 12s. 8d.; also ten cottages, one church in ruins, twenty acres of wood and stony ground in said island, called beechwood, with all the tithes, and the several customs following:— From every boat of oysters coming itno the city of Liiuerick, once a year 1,000 oysters; and from every herring boat, once a year 600 herrings (Archdall, etc.). The Queen also granted the customs of the several gates of

   1594 A hundred talemen were sent to ye north of Trland, under the leadinge of David Woulf capte. in somer tyme. My father dyed this year. Sexteri's Annals.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 405

7. Famine-era shipping surge at Limerick port

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1847

   In 1847, the peak year of the potato failure, 1,013 vessels arrived at Limerick port registering 149,867 tons. This surge necessitated repeal of the Navigation Laws and massive importation of foreign grain.

   Read the passage

   The largest amount of shipping that ever entered the port was in the year 1847, when 1013 vessels arrived, registering 149,867 tons — a striking evidence of the effect of the potato failure, which necessitated the repeal of the Navigation Laws, and an immense importation of foreign grain. As we have already observed, the coasting trade was some years ago carried on by a large fleet of fine clipper schooners, which in latter years have been superseded by first-class steamers ; and large ships, by which the emigration and timber trades had been formerly carried on, have been considerably reduced in latter years, as well on account of the great stringency of the emigration laws, as of the extraordinary facilities which have been provided by the transatlantic steamers from Queenstown, Liverpool, etc.

   There is every reason, notwithstanding a partial decline in trade, and commerce and manufactures, to hope that Limerick, situated in the midst of the most fertile and beautiful part of Ireland, at the head of the tidal Shannon, " the queen of Irish rivers"', with railway communication to every part of the country — with a population only anxious for work, and with men of enterprise and ability giving an impetus to manufactures, will soon witness a revival, such as must realise the fondest anticipations of all who wish well to her historic fame and proud and invincible reputation.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 308

   As the companion tells it

   As the road passes through Limerick, the city at the head of the tidal Shannon, its port saw its greatest year of shipping in 1847. That was the peak of the potato failure. 1,013 vessels arrived, registering 149,867 tons, the largest amount of shipping that ever entered the port. It was striking evidence of the effect of the potato failure, which necessitated the repeal of the Navigation Laws and an immense importation of foreign grain. The coasting trade had been carried on by a large fleet of fine clipper schooners, but in latter years those were superseded by first-class steamers. The large ships that had carried the emigration and timber trades were considerably reduced, on account of the great stringency of the emigration laws and the extraordinary facilities provided by transatlantic steamers from Queenstown and Liverpool. Limerick sits in the midst of the most fertile and beautiful part of Ireland, on what the source calls, in words from the time, "the queen of Irish rivers." Despite a partial decline in trade, commerce and manufactures, there was hope for revival, with railway communication to every part of the country, a population anxious for work, and men of enterprise giving impetus to manufactures.

8. Fierce county Limerick election contest of 1830

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1830

   One of the fiercest post-Clare election contests occurred in County Limerick in 1830 between Colonel O'Grady and Mr. Massy Dawson. The contest lasted several days, with Colonel O'Grady winning by a majority of 215 votes on the gross poll.

   Read the passage

   One of the fiercest contests that had taken place after the Clare election, was that which occurred in the county of Limerick in 1830, when the candidates were Colonel O'Grady and Mr. Massy Dawson. The contest, as usual, lasted several days ; and at the conclusion Colonel O'Grady had a majority of 215 votes on the gross poll.' In two years afterwards — viz. in December, 1832, a contested election took place in the county of Limerick, when there voted for Colonel Eitzgibbon, 1056 ; Colonel O'Grady, 1040 ; Godfrey Massy, 760 ; Alexander McCarthy, 751.

   ' The particulars of this extraordinary election, the names, &c., of the parties who -were mixed np with it, together with a number of songs and ballads, which were sung in the interest of Colonel O'Grady, appeared in a brochure printed in Limerick in this year, and being dedicated to Daniel O'Connell, it is called Quinbus Flestrum — the Man-Mountain.* Some of the ballads were piquant. The following stanza of a jeu d'esprit is a fair specimen of the entire.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 275

   As the companion tells it

   As you travel through Limerick, you are passing through the site of one of the fiercest election contests that followed the famous Clare election. This was the county of Limerick in 1830, when the candidates were Colonel O'Grady and Mr. Massy Dawson. The contest lasted several days, and at the close Colonel O'Grady won by a majority of 215 votes on the gross poll. The contest was extraordinary enough that a brochure was printed in Limerick that same year, dedicated to Daniel O'Connell and called Quinbus Flestrum, the Man-Mountain. It held the names of the parties mixed up in the election, along with songs and ballads sung in the interest of Colonel O'Grady. Some of the ballads were piquant. Two years later, in December 1832, another contested election came to the county. The votes that time were Colonel Fitzgibbon, 1056; Colonel O'Grady, 1040; Godfrey Massy, 760; and Alexander McCarthy, 751.

9. Flight of the Earls from Rathmullen on Lough Swilly

   Rathmullen · population centre · Sligo · 1607

   In 1607, O'Neill and O'Donnell with their families sailed from Rathmullen on Lough Swilly for Normandy, then proceeded to Rome. Their flight effectively terminated the independence of Ireland and led to confiscation of their vast Ulster possessions.

   Read the passage

   witli the king on whatever terms he could^ and to get a new grant of his estate. Hence the enquiries into defective titles, which took place in the early part of the reign of King James.' These inquisitions were first proposed in the causes of MacBrian Gonagh, O^Mulryan and other septs in Limerick and Tipperary, who had expelled the old English colonies planted there, whose heirs not being known, the lands had escheated to the crown ; most counties in Ireland afforded abundance of similar cases. Even of those who had imagined they had settled their possessions by composition, having covenanted to take out letters patent, the greater number had neglected to do so, and holding their lands only by the indenture of the composition made with Sir Jolm Perrott, and not having performed the stipulations they stood in need of new grants to give them a lawful title to their estates. There was also a failure or alleged failure in an infinite number of other cases. This was an age of adventurers and projectors.^ Every body was at work in trying to find out flaws in people's estates ; the Pi])e rolls and the Patent rolls were searched for reserved rents and ancient grants, and no means left untried to force gentlemen to a new composition, or to the accepting of new grants at higher rents than before. It was not to be expected that the fair domains of O'Neill and O'Donnell, would escape the greed of these covetous projectors. The claims of O^Neill to the princely possessions of his ancestors were disputed under Enghsh laws, he was harassed by legal enquiries into title, until at last he was compelled to leave the country, partly by means of law fictions, and processes calling on him to appear and answer in the cause of the Protestant Bishop of Derry, against Hugh Earl of Tpone, partly by a conspiracy, supposed to have been concerted against him by Cecil, but which was put into execution by Christopher St. Laurence, Baron of Howth, who entrapped the Earls of Tyrone and Tyrconnell, the Baron of Delvin and O'Cahane into a plot into which they may readily be beheved to have fallen by the representations made by Howth, of the probability of new penal enactments against CathoHcs. This is the opinion of Mr. Moore' and others, but it is extremely probable that the plot was contrived by Cecil, the artful author of the Gunpowder plot, and that the flight of the Earls was exactly what the government wanted, who immediately declared them rebels, and proceeded to confiscate their vast possessions in six counties of Ulster.'' O^Neill and O^Donnel with their families, sailed from Rathmullen on Lough Swdly, for Normandy, from which they proceeded to Eome, enjoying a pension from the Pope and the King. O^Donnell died the following year, O'Neill in 1608 ; Maguu'e at Geneva in 1608. The flight of the Earls, which may be said to have terminated the independence of Ireland, took place in 1607.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 72

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up along Rathmullen now, on Lough Swilly. This is where, in 1607, one of the most consequential departures in Irish history took place. O'Neill and O'Donnell, with their families, sailed from here for Normandy, and from there proceeded to Rome. What drove them out was years of legal harassment. Under English law, O'Neill's claims to the princely possessions of his ancestors were disputed. He was pursued through the courts, called to appear and answer in the cause of the Protestant Bishop of Derry against Hugh, Earl of Tyrone. This was an age of projectors searching the Pipe rolls and Patent rolls for flaws in people's estates, forcing gentlemen to accept new grants at higher rents. The fair domains of O'Neill and O'Donnell were not going to escape that greed. Then came a conspiracy. Christopher St. Laurence, Baron of Howth, entrapped the Earls of Tyrone and Tyrconnell, the Baron of Delvin, and O'Cahane into a plot, by representing to them the probability of new penal enactments against Catholics. Mr. Moore and others held this view. But it is extremely probable, the book says, that the plot was contrived by Cecil, described as the artful author of the Gunpowder plot. The flight of the Earls was exactly what the government wanted. They immediately declared them rebels and proceeded to confiscate their vast possessions in six counties of Ulster. After reaching Rome, O'Neill and O'Donnell enjoyed a pension from the Pope and the King. O'Donnell died the following year. O'Neill died in 1608. Maguire died at Geneva in 1608. The flight of the Earls, which may be said to have terminated the independence of Ireland, took place in 1607.

10. Franciscan chapel opened in Newgate Lane, 1782

    near Newgate Lane · street · Limerick · 1782–1802

    On Christmas Day 1782 the Franciscans opened their chapel in Newgate Lane for celebration of the sacred mysteries. The spacious chapel was built with munificent aid from Catholics, Protestants, Dissenters, Quakers, and Methodists alike. The date 1802 appeared over the principal entrance, though it was built many years before.

    Read the passage

    On Christmas Day, 1782, they opened for the celebration of the sacred mysteries their chapel in Newgate Lane. The chapel in question was spacious, and it had a piece of ground attached to it, on which a house for the Franciscan Fathers was soon afterwards built. The liberal spirit of the times gave an impetus to the erection of the chapel, to which not only devoted and pious Catholics gave munificent aid, but to which Protestants, Dissenters, Quakers, Methodists, etc., largely contributed. That Limerick was alwaj'S attached to the Franciscan Order may be proved, not only by the facts we have advanced, but by the additional one, that Father Harold, a native of the city, and a learned member of the order, wrote the life of the illustrious Luke Wadding, and gave an epitome of the voluminous and laborious works of that statesman, patriot, and historiographer. The date over the principal entrance to this chapel was 1802, though it was built many years before. The Franciscans dlscontmued their school, which was succeeded by Mr. M'Eligott's, Mr. Nolan's, etc., and about the year 1815, they established the nunnery for Poor Clares on the site of the present Convent of Mercy, and erected a school for female children, which cost £1,000, and where they had 1,000 children in daily attendance. They

    _ ' W.arc mentions tlio foundation by Bourkc, B.aron of Castle Conncll, of a Conventual Franciscan Abbey in the island near Limerick, a.d, 1291.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 376

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Newgate Lane, the Franciscans opened their chapel on Christmas Day 1782, for the celebration of the sacred mysteries. The chapel was spacious, with a piece of ground attached, and a house for the Franciscan Fathers was built on that ground soon after. The liberal spirit of the times drove its erection. Not only devoted and pious Catholics gave munificent aid, but Protestants, Dissenters, Quakers, and Methodists largely contributed as well. Limerick was always attached to the Franciscan Order. Father Harold, a native of the city and a learned member of the order, wrote the life of the illustrious Luke Wadding, and gave an epitome of the voluminous and laborious works of that statesman, patriot, and historiographer. The date over the principal entrance to this chapel was 1802, though it was built many years before. The Franciscans discontinued their school, which was succeeded by Mr. M'Eligott's, then Mr. Nolan's. About the year 1815, they established the nunnery for Poor Clares on the site of the present Convent of Mercy, and erected a school for female children that cost £1,000, where they had 1,000 children in daily attendance.

11. Galloping Hogan murdered near Roscrea

    Roscrea · town · Tipperary

    Following the Williamite campaigns, Galloping Hogan took advantage of a proclaimed amnesty. He was subsequently murdered near Roscrea by rapparees who had not submitted to the authorities.

    Read the passage

    An amnesty was proclaimed in a short time,, of wliicli Galloping Hogan is stated by Storey/ to have taken advantage, adding, that he was murdered near Eoscrea soon afterwards by certain rapparees who had not submitted.

    JSTever in the chequered pages of our eventful history did the Irish prove truer or more powerful than in the sieges, and never did they merit more the praises that have been heaped upon them by all impartial witnesses of their valour, heroism, perseverance, and devotion to the cause they espoused with so much disinterested self-abnegation. Not only did they not obtain the advantages which heroism, constancy and valor, such as theirs should have commanded, but they were betrayed and sold, and treated with a treachery unparalleled in the annals of history.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 160

12. George Osborne, cathedral organist's son

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1844–1848

    George Osborne, son of the organist of the Protestant Cathedral in Limerick of the same name, went to Paris early in life, studied under the first masters, and distinguished himself as a performer and composer. He helped forward Catherine Hayes as an artist when she first visited Paris in 1844.

    Read the passage

    The pages of this work teem with proofs of the existence in every age of eminent natives of Limerick, which has given prelates to the Church, statesmen to the cabinet, warriors to the field, writers in several branches of literature, including philosophy, divinity, history, romance, etc., etc. ; chemists, naturalists, poets, and painters. The index shows where their names appear throughout the preceding pages, and it is not necessary that they should be recapitulated here. Suffice it to say, that in arts and arms, in literature and science, in music and in song, Limerick has had no superior amongst the provincial cities of Ireland; and that it continues to uphold the well won fame for which it has been through so many generations preeminently distinguished. As to Gerald Griffin, we have already referred with honour to his splendid fame. Amongst the most eminent of Limerick men, mention should be made of the late Major General Sir Richard Bourke, K.C.B., of Thornfields, whose administration as governor of New South Wales, to which he was appointed in 1831, forms, according to the work of K. Terry, Esq., late one of the judges of the Supreme Court of New South Wales, " the brightest page in the annals" of that colony, and whose name has been held in merited honour there. In his early military career, he was severely wounded in action in Spain and Flanders. The late Sir Aubrey de Vere, Bart., of Curraghchase, was an exquisite poet, the author of Mary Tudor, a Lamentation of Ireland, Julian the Apostate, and other poems and dramas. His son Aubrey De Vere, Esq., is also an elegant poet, whose applications abound in the most patriotic and truly Catholic sentiments. In song, and as an actress, the late Madame Catherine Hayes, who was born in the house. No. 4 Patrick Street, Limerick, was one of the most eminent of her time, her fame having extended all over the world. She was Prima Donna at the Royal Opera House of San Carlo, Milan. She sang and acted not only in the principal capitals of Europe, but in those of America, California, Australia, etc. In London and Dublin she was a deserved favourite, whilst in the city of her birth her popularity was unbounded. She was called " the Swan of Erin " ; and having realised a large fortune by her wonderful voice, she lived respected and esteemed, and died in London* on the 11th of August, 1861, having bequeathed her riches to George John Power, Esq , of the county of Waterford. George Osborne, son of an organist of the Protestant Cathedral, of same name, went early in life to Paris and studied under the first masters, and distinguished himself as a public performer and composer. He had to leave with all the English residents in Paris after the Revolution of 1848. Mr. Osborne materially assisted in forwarding Catherine Hayes as an artist when she first visited Paris in 1844. Of remarkable persons to whom no reference has been already made the following namea occur; —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 453

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are in a city that has given prelates to the Church, statesmen to the cabinet, warriors to the field, and men of letters, science, music, and song. Among its eminent sons was George Osborne, son of the organist of the Protestant Cathedral here in Limerick, who bore the same name. George Osborne went early in life to Paris and studied under the first masters. He distinguished himself there as a public performer and composer. In 1844, when Catherine Hayes first visited Paris, Osborne materially assisted in forwarding her as an artist. Catherine Hayes herself was born in this city, in the house at number 4 Patrick Street. She became one of the most eminent singers and actresses of her time, her fame extending all over the world. She was Prima Donna at the Royal Opera House of San Carlo in Milan. She sang and acted not only in the principal capitals of Europe but in those of America, California, and Australia. In London and Dublin she was a deserved favourite, and in the city of her birth her popularity was unbounded. She was called the Swan of Erin. She realised a large fortune by her wonderful voice, lived respected and esteemed, and died in London on the 11th of August 1861, having bequeathed her riches to George John Power of the county of Waterford. As for Osborne, he had to leave Paris with all the English residents there after the Revolution of 1848.

13. Ginkle's second crossing of the Shannon into Clare

    near Clare · population centre · Clare · 1691

    Ginkle led a second major passage of the River Shannon with horse, dragoons, ten regiments of foot and fourteen guns over a bridge of boats into County Clare, despite great difficulty and fire from forts and batteries. The troops completed the crossing by 23 September.

    Read the passage

    A second great passage of the river by Ginkle himself, the Duke of Wurtemburg, Scravemore, " with aU our horse and dragoons, commanded by Major-General Euvigny, (except Colonel Coy^s horse, and fifty out of each regiment of dragoons), with ten regiments of foot and fourteen guns, viz., ten three-pounders and four twelve-pounders, taking also seven days^ provision along, was made over our bridge of boats into the county of Clare, leaving Major-General Mackay and Major-General Talmash to command on this side.'"' Great difficulty was experienced in this movement ; the forts and batteries played upon the movuig colunms with tremendous precision. At twelve o'clock, however, on the 23nd of September, they all passed the river,^ and they must have been compelled to retreat, had it not been that they were so weU sustained. Some small firings continued about four o'clock,

    > Smith's MSS. in K.I. A. contains " some account of the O'Dells of Ballingarry, a family of which this Officer was the ancestor. They were related by intermarriage to the Knights of Kerry, the Hunts of Glangoole, Co. Tipperary, &c. &c.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 143

14. Henry VIII's letter confirming Limerick's charter

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Henry VIII wrote to the Council and Corporation of Limerick confirming their charter and liberties, and ordered his deputy to leave a great piece of ordnance with shot and powder in the city for defence. Edmond Sexton, then Mayor, had been sent to the King to request the charter confirmation.

    Read the passage

    Trustie and right well beloved, we grete you well, and perceyving by your letters and credence sent unto us in the person of our trustie and well beloved servant, Eamond Sexten, Mayor of that our cittie, your desire concerning the confirmation of your charter and libertyes, with certain additions in the specialities whereof, ye further instructed the same our servant concerning your faithfull loyal herts towards us, with your dilligent service to our good contentation and pleasure, like as for the same we give unto you our right harty and condign thankes. We be right favorable willing and inclyneable not only to yor said pursuits, but also shall be the semblable in all other your reasonable petitions. And for this tyme, in token of our favor towards you, we have written unto our deputie there that at his next repayre unto our prce, he shall leave one of our great pieces of ordinaunces, with shott and pouder necessary, in your custodye within that our cyttie, there to remayne, and be alwayes in a readj'ness for the adv-ancement of all enterprosses in those ptes, to be attempted and sett forwardes by your said servant and his coadjutor, our trustie and well beloved John Arthur FitzNicholas, one of your brethern of that your cittye. Byde unto them at all seasons, consellying, favouring, aveding and assisting to the best of yeur power, as our speciall trust in you. Given under our signet at our Manor of Westmr, the last day of May.

    To the Counsell and Corporation of our cittie of Lymericke.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 53

15. Ireton's and Cromwell's Forts renamed by Ginkle

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1691

    Two forts built by Ireton during the earlier siege of Limerick were renamed by Ginkle to Mackey's and Nassau's Forts, but the old Cromwell-era names persisted locally. The forts were notable antiquities from the Cromwellian wars.

    Read the passage

    ' Oliver Cromwell, in the former wars of Ireland, never went farther than Clonmel ; for there receiving orders from the Parliament to proceed to England, he entrusted the management of the army to Ireton ; who, at the besieging of Limerick, built several forts ; two of the most remarkable, bearing the names of Ireton's and Cromwell's, were by Ginkle ordered to be called Mackey's and Nassau's Forts, because gained under these commanders ; and by these names we shall call them for the future, when there is occasion to mention them. It is true that they have long since ceased to be called by the names of William's generals ; and that to this day they are known by the names given to them in Cromwell's time.

    2 Storey.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 142

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are near ground where two old forts still carry the names of Cromwell's time. Oliver Cromwell himself never came farther than Clonmel. The Parliament called him back to England, and he left the army with Ireton. Ireton besieged Limerick and built several forts here. The two most remarkable bore the names Ireton's Fort and Cromwell's Fort. Later, in 1691, Ginkle ordered them renamed Mackey's and Nassau's Forts, because they were gained under those commanders. But the old names would not die. The forts have long since ceased to be called by the names of William's generals. To this day they are known by the names given them in Cromwell's time.

16. James Desmond proclaimed Earl across Munster towns

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1600

    After the defeat of the Sugan Earl, James, son of the Earl of Desmond, was released from captivity in London and proclaimed Earl throughout Munster. He arrived in Ireland with a great force and appeared in Mallow, Cork, and Limerick.

    Read the passage

    It was after the defeat of the Sugane Earl, that James, the young son of the Earl of Desmond, after being detained in captivity by Elizabeth for twenty-one years in London, as a hostage, in revenge of his father and father's brothers having rebelled against her, was released from bondage, after he had thrown himseK on her mercy ; and the English ministers and the Lord President concurred in the expediency of setting him up as a rival to the power and popularity of the former in Munster. An order was given to proclaim him as " an honorable Earl," by the authority of his sovereign (to whose presence he was admitted, and by whom he was saluted Earl of Desmond), throughout the assembhes and great towns of Munster. He arrived in Ireland, accompanied by a great force, in the month of October following, was welcomed at Cork by the President and the Earl of Thomond. They afterwards appeared in MaUow, Cork, and Limerick. ^ On his arrival in

    ' It would not have been easy to take the castle were it not that the Earl of Desmond's people had grievously dispersed from him. — Annals of the Four Masters.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 69

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is one of the Munster towns where James, the young son of the Earl of Desmond, was proclaimed Earl. He had been held captive by Elizabeth in London for twenty-one years, as a hostage, in revenge for his father and his father's brothers having rebelled against her. After he threw himself on her mercy, the English ministers and the Lord President agreed it was expedient to set him up as a rival to the power and popularity of the Sugan Earl in Munster. An order was given to proclaim him, in the words of the source, as an honorable Earl, by the authority of his sovereign, whose presence he was admitted to, and by whom he was saluted Earl of Desmond. This proclamation ran through the assemblies and great towns of Munster. He arrived in Ireland accompanied by a great force in the month of October following. He was welcomed at Cork by the President and the Earl of Thomond. They afterwards appeared in Mallow, Cork, and Limerick.

17. James fired upon at Derry

    Derry · townland · Limerick · 1689

    King James had gone to Derry to protect his Protestant subjects from the vengeance of northern Catholics, but was fired at from the walls of Derry for his pains.

    Read the passage

    houses made of wood^ so convenient that they could be set up in an hour's time, and he never while in Ireland lay out in camp.' The battle of the Boyne, in which King Jameses army was defeated,, and the Duke of Schonberg, WiUiam's general was killed, was fought on the 1st of July. James had prenously gone to Derry, in order to protect his Protestant subjects from the vengeance of the Catholics of the North ; but he was fired at for his pains from the walls of Derry — in fact the conduct of King James was already arraigned as that of a Catholic in rehgion, and a Protestant in pohtics.' There was no blame that did not abeady attach to James ; among others he was accused of having spent the campaign of 1689 without advantage — he was aspersed because energetic measures were not taken by the Duke of Tyrconnell and his other ministers to prevent the Castle of Charlemont, the only fortress in Ulster, falling into the hands of Schonberg.^ James, however, has been vindicated by Mac Phersou and other writers, fi-om the serious charges which have been preferred against him on these heads ; but nevertheless, his proceedings throughout manifested a desire to conciliate a foe which had thoroughly contemned his advances.

    On his arrival in Dubhn, after the defeat of the Boyne, he made a speech which speaks badly for his sentiments towards his Irish subjects;* and had he reserved what he had to say tiU after he had witnessed all that Irish chivalry and honour had done for him in Limerick and elsewhere, it is certain he would have done more justice to those who poured out their blood Hke water for him on many an eventful field : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 121

18. John Lacie of Bruff denounced as Munster rebel, 1641

    Bruff · town · Limerick · 1641

    At the siege of Askeaton in 1641, 'John Lacie of the Brouff' was denounced by St. Ledger, Lord President of Munster, along with M'William Bourke and others, as among 'the Mounster Rebelles.'

    Read the passage

    turies ; the •wars against Turkey, in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, those of the f amou» Irish Brigade, the wars by the French against Marlborough, with Catholic Germany against Sweden and Prussia, and the Russians against Turkey — in short, in every leading European event to the Treaty of Adrianople, in 1829, the family of De Lacy of Limerick has supplied a member, and achieved undying renown. From Walter De Lacy, whose daughters were married into the noble house of Fitzgerald, Earls of Desmond and Kildare, descended Hugh Lacy, Bishop of Limerick, in Queen Mary's time ; the family rose and fell with the Fitzgeralds' intestine wars, in the fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth centuries. In the seventeenth century there were three brothers of the family settled in the County Limerick —one in Ballingarry, one in Bruree, and one in Bruff ; and from those descended the famous " Pierce Lacy" who was executed by the Justices in 1617; being one of the five exempted from the pardon of 1601. His descendant, Colonel Lacy, continued the wars in Munster in 1641, and treated with Ireton at the siege of Limerick in 1651, but was excluded from the amnesty. John Bourke, Lord of Brittas, half-brother of Pierce Lacy, was executed in 1607; and in 1618, his relative married to the daughter of the Earl of Inchiquin, was created Baron Brittas; in 16il attainted, restored, 1688 attainted and lost their properties. Cromwell expelled the Lacys root and branch, and only one of the Bruff branch escaped the slaughter by dismounting a horseman. Pierce Lacy was conspicuously engaged in the siege of Limerick, 1691. From these branches sprung the Irish Brigaders, and the French, Spanish, Austrian, Polish and Russian warriors. Marshals and Generals De Lacy and Brown, whose exploits for a century, up to the close of the last century, filled Europe with their fame. In the list of English by descent at the end of the sixteenth century, in the county of Limerick, the Lacys of Ballingarry, of the Brouve (Bruff) and of Bruree, are ranked with "the gentlemen and freeholders" of the county, as contradistinguished from the " meere Irishe," and the factions in Munster, viz. the " McSwines and M'Shees, then in faction" — the latter gallowglasses,* though at the siege at Askeaton in 1641 — "JohnLacie of the Brouff" is denounced, with M'William Bourke, second son of Lord Brittas, and others, by St. Ledger, Lord President of Munster, as among " the Mounster Rebelles."t History teems with the achievements of the De Lacys in Russia and Austria. It was for his remarkable successes in the Council not less than in the Field, that the " famous Marshal De Lascy, the son of an Irish Exile from the county of Limerick, was loaded with so much honor by the rulers of Austria, and received from the Emperor Joseph a letter (written the day before the Emperor's death)" which is translated in his kinsman's "Cornet Pierse's Historical Researches," as follows: — "Vienna, 19th February, 1790. My dear marshal Lacy, I behold the moment which is to separate us approaching with hasty strides ! 1 should be very ungrateful indeed if I left this world without assuring you, my dear friend, of that lively gratitude on which you have so many claims, and which I have had the pleasure of acknowledging in the face of the whole world ! Yes ! you created my army : to you it is indebted for its credit and its consideration. If I be any thing 1 owe it to you. The trust I could repose in your advice under every circumstance, your unbroken attachment to my person, which never varied, your success in the Field as well as in the Council, are so many grounds, my dear marshal, which render it impossible for me sufficiently to express my thanks. I have seen your tears flow for me ! The tears of a great man and a sage are a high panegyric. Receive my adieus ! I tenderly embrace you. I regret nothing in this world but the small number of mv/'-iencis, among whom you certamly are the first! Remember me! remember your sincere and affectionate friend, JOSEPH." A magnificent monument, with his efiigy in bronze, is raised to him in Vienna.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 189

19. Limerick Corporation leases estates to its own members

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1747–1748

    In 1747 and 1748, more than two-thirds of the Corporation estates near and adjoining Limerick fell out of lease, and the Corporators demised the entire of these lands among themselves for 999 years at a total annual rent of £36 2s. 9d., provoking vigorous remonstrance from the Protestant party.

    Read the passage

    But that the Corporators of Limerick took alarm there can be no doubt ; and that they were making preparations for a wholesale onslaught on the property of the people, is mdisputable. In the years 1747 and 1748, more than two-thirds of the estates of the Corporation, consisting of town-parks and premises, near and adjoining to the city, together with several plots of building ground and houses within the city, fell out of lease, and the Corporators demised amongst themselves the entire of these lands for nine hundred and

    ' White's MSS.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni

    As the companion tells it

    Passing through Limerick, you're in a city where in 1747 and 1748, more than two-thirds of the Corporation's estates fell out of lease. These were town-parks and premises near and adjoining the city, with building plots and houses within it. The Corporators demised all these lands among themselves for 999 years at a total annual rent of 36 pounds, 2 shillings and 9 pence. The Protestant party protested vigorously. The Corporators were making preparations for a "wholesale onslaught on the property of the people," as the source puts it.

20. Lord Power's son raised Protestant for Curraghmore estate claim

    Curraghmore · townland · Waterford · 1706–1717

    By the Queen's direction in 1706, the son of Colonel Power (commonly called Lord Power) was delivered to the Duke of Ormonde to be bred up a Protestant, with £100 per year proposed for his support. Henry Power later petitioned for the Curraghmore estates, which could not be inherited by a Papist.

    Read the passage

    1706. " By the Queen's direction, the son of Col. Power, commonly called Lord Power, was delivered into his care to be bred up a Protestant. This was being carry out, and his Grace has now proposed ,£100 a year for his support, on the establishment of Ireland, the same as the Lord Roche had."

    London^ Ajp. 9, 1706. "My Lords — My Lord Power has made frequent application for Payment of the money taken up for bringing over his son from Holland, and for keeping him here at school this year past, which amounts to £200. It was with her Majesty's approbation this was done, and he should have been placed upon the Establishment, but till that can be effected, I should think it proper it were paid out of the concordatum, and do therefore desire your Lordship to move the Council therein as soon as you find a convenient opportunity.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 475

21. Lucius O'Brien denounces tithe neglect across County Clare parishes

    near Clare · population centre · Clare · 1763

    Speaking in Parliament, Lucius O'Brien, member for Clare, described the deplorable condition of Clare's inhabitants caused by Protestant clergy neglecting their duties while collecting tithes. He noted there were seventy-six parishes but only fourteen churches, leaving sixty-two as sinecures.

    Read the passage

    It was proved on the trials for these offences that in almost every instance the promoters and instigators of them were Protestants — Protestant tenants who had resolved to wring justice from the lords of the soil. At a Special Commission held in June of this year, 1763, two men named Banyart and Carthy, were tried, found guilty, and executed at Gallows Green on the 19th of that month. In reference to some of the causes of these disturbances, Mr. Lucius O'Brien, member for Clare, made a remarkably bold and telling speech, in his place in Parliament, in which he lamented the deplorable condition of the inhabitants of the county in which he lived (Clare.) " arising from the total neglect of those who had nominally the cai'e of their souls, and the tythe of their property (the Protestant clergy) in Clare, he continued to say, there were seventy-six parishes and no more than fourteen churches, so that sixty-two parishes were sinecures. . . "Who can suppose that men will patiently suffer the extortion of a tythe monger, where no duty for which the tythe is paid has been performed in the memory of man. . . . It has been said that to prevent opposition to such demands we should put in force our penal laws against those that have opposed them already, but give me leave. Sir, to say that no penal law, however sanguinary in itself, and however rigorously executed, will subdue the natives of a free country into a tame and patient acquiescence in what must appear to be the

    ' In this j-ear, 1762, Cornelius Magrath, an Irish giant, who was born in the Silver Mines, Co. Tipperary, in 173C, died in College Green, Dublin, He was sein in Cork by Dr. Smith. — iimith's MSiH. in Royal Irish Academt/. * White's MSS.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 198

22. Ludlow's Clare campaign: Inchecroghnan and Carrigaholt

    near Carrigaholt · townland · Clare · 1651

    General Ludlow crossed the river at Inchecroghnan to oppose David Roche's forces in Clare. After difficulty holding the pass, he relieved the garrison of Carrigaholt before returning to Limerick.

    Read the passage

    walls idle ; they were aware of the vast advantage of retaining Limerick iu their possession, and to achieve that object they spared no exertion. Lord Muskerry had brought together about 5000 horse and foot in the counties of (Jork and Kerry, and David Eoche between two and three thousand men in Clare. Lord Broghill and Major Wallis were despatched to oppose Lord Muskerry, whilst General Ludlow, with a detachment, was sent to look after the other. Broghill encountered Muskerry, and defeated him. Ludlow crossed the river at Inchecroghnan, and had some difficulty in preventing the pass of that place falling into the hands of Roche's soldiery, who, however, retreated, and enabled Ludlow to return to Limerick, after having encountered and overcome some severe obstructions before he relieved the garrison of Carrigaholt. He at length arrived at Limerick, where considerable progress had been made in the works, and where a reinforcement from England had landed nearly four thousand foot, to recruit an army which had been thinned by the climate, the change in food, the diseases to which they were subject, and the casualties of war.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 98

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Carrigaholt, where General Ludlow came in 1651. At the time, David Roche had between two and three thousand men in Clare, while Lord Muskerry had gathered about 5000 horse and foot in Cork and Kerry. Lord Broghill and Major Wallis were sent to oppose Muskerry, and Ludlow with a detachment was sent after Roche. Broghill defeated Muskerry. Ludlow crossed the river at Inchecroghnan and had some difficulty preventing the pass there from falling into the hands of Roche's soldiery. They retreated, but not before Ludlow encountered and overcame some severe obstructions on his way to relieve the garrison of Carrigaholt. He at length arrived back at Limerick, where considerable progress had been made on the works. A reinforcement from England had landed nearly four thousand foot, to recruit an army that had been thinned by the climate, the change in food, the diseases they were subject to, and the casualties of war.

23. Mayor deposed by clergy for proclaiming Ormonde's peace

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1645

    In 1645 the mayor of Limerick, John Fitz-Thomas Bourk, was deposed by the clergy and populace for endeavouring to proclaim Ormonde's peace, and the rod was given to Dominick Fanning.

    Read the passage

    1645 John Fitz-Thomas Bourk, Thomas Fitz-Patrick Stretch, Edmund Fitz-Stephen Roch. This Mayor was deposed hy the clergy and populace for endearouring to proclaim Ormonde's peace, and the

    rod was given to Dominick Fanning (second time).

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 407

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, in 1645 this city's mayor, John Fitz-Thomas Bourk, was deposed by the clergy and populace for endeavouring to proclaim Ormonde's peace. The rod was given to Dominick Fanning, for the second time.

24. Mrs. Russell presents laurel at Glentworth Street

    Glentworth Street · street · Limerick

    During Tuthill's chairing procession in Limerick, Mrs. Russell of Glentworth-street presented him with a laurel branch edged with gold, amidst loud huzzas and waving of handkerchiefs and hats.

    Read the passage

    On the chair were four labels in letters of gold ; the first was, God save the King ; the second, the Man of the People ; the third, the Champion of our Rights ; and the fourth, Tuthill and Independence. He was presented with favours from the several trades : with a beautiful sash from the clothiers. What heightened the scene, and excited the greatest enthusiasm, was the presenting him with a branch of laurel, the leaves of which were edged with gold, by Mrs. Russell, of Glentworth- street. This was done amidst loud huzzas, waving of handkerchiefs and hats. The procession, in the following order, then moved on : first, the different tradesmen with cockades and favours, amounting to some thousands, their respective banners in front, and walking arm in arm, indiscriminately united. Next came a square car, with high railing, interwoven with shrubs and flowers ; in the middle was planted the tree of knowledge, representing the garden of Eden ; two children were standing at the step of the garden, dressed in buff to represent Adam and Eve in their innocent state ; a large eel was twined round the tree, in imitation of the serpent who alights on it, and was anxiously expecting Adam would take the apple from Eve that she was presenting him with. Then came the chair, preceded by gentlemen bearing banners, on which were inscribed, ' Our Music is the Voice of the People -! and now our longing eyes beheld Mr. Tuthill surrounded with nearly all the wealth, talent, and respectability of Limerick. On the platform were Mr. William Roche, the banker, Mr. Mathew Barrington, and other respectable gentlemen ; and the chair was followed by about 800 respectable citizens with wands, to which branches of laurel were bound. The procession was closed by an innumerable concourse of people, and proceeded through every quarter of the city, even to the liberties ; but in going through George's-street, Major Yereker stepped out on the balcony at the Club-house, respectfully bowed

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 254

25. Mungret monastery burned by Danes and later by Cromwell's forces

    Mungret · town · Limerick

    Local traditions state the monastery and college of Mungret were burned by the Danes, and afterwards by Cromwell's forces, or probably by General Scravenmore, who blew up Carrigogunnell in the Williamite wars and is said to have shelled Mungret from the Shannon, setting fire to the thatched roof.

    Read the passage

    The traditions about the abbey itself are not numerous. That Mungret was a famous religious house, formed by St. Patrick, that its students and monks were most numerous after it became a great college as well as a monastery, that there were of one name alone, one hundred and forty of the inmates called " John Loftus",^ and that the monastery and college were burned by the Danes, and afterwards by Cromwell's forces, or probably by General Scravenmore, who blew up Carrig-o-gunnell in the Williamite wars, who are stated in the local traditions to have shelled it from the Shannon, on which occasion, whenever it happened, they are said to have set fire to tl^e then thatchedroof of the monastery ; these are about the whole of the existing local traditions that refer to the history of this celebrated establishment. The great eastern window was some time ago quite covered with ivy externally, but some treasure-seekers removed it without doing any further mischief. Internally on the right side of the same window, which is broken into two lights by a mullion, there stood, until within the last few years, a fine specimen of a piscina, the bottom resembling the impress of a human face, which some Vandal, or dishonest antiquarian visitor, has lately destroyed if not removed. The people for miles around, were, in our memory, in the habit of applying their faces to this stone as a supposed remedy for headache. The venerable ash trees which occupied the northern side have also disappeared. And indeed even the very walls of this truly venerable house would have long ago been destroyed, had the builder of the new church been permitted to construct the new edifice on the site of the old. But the people of the neighbourhood firmly opposed it, and fortunately carried their point.

    The Psalter of Cashel states that the Monastery of Mungret had within its walls six churches, and, exclusively of nmnerous scholars, 1,500 monks,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 310

26. Norris marches to Kilmallock against O'Moore

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1598

    Sir Thomas Norris marched to Kilmallock to oppose O'Moore's advance but was obliged to retire to Cork, leaving a garrison behind. His rear guard was roughly handled by O'Moore's forces during the retreat.

    Read the passage

    As it does not enter into our plan to give the details of the war of O'Neill and O'Donnell, we must pass over some of the most interesting portions of the history of Ireland to the events in the local history. The brilliant campaigns of O^Neill and the other chiefs of Confederate Ulster^ especially crowned by the victory of the Yellow Pord^ in which Marshal Bagnall_, with twenty-three officers and seventeen hundred men were left dead on the field, leaving their artillery^ arms, colors and baggage in the hands of the Irish, produced a pow^erful effect on the Catholics of Munster ; Sir Peter de Lacy of BruflF, invited the celebrated Eory O^Moore, who had recovered his chieftainry of Leix, to Munster, and O'Moore having consulted O^NeiU, accepted the invitation, and despite of a show of opposition for Ormond, arrived without interruption in the county of Limerick ; Sir Thomas Norris marched to KilmaUock to oppose him, but he was obliged to retire to Cork, leaving a garrison behind him, and in his retreat, his rere guard was roughly handled by the forces of O'Moore. The success of O'Moore, produced an almost universal rising of the noblemen of Munster against the queen, but the Earls of Thomond and Ormond, and the Baron of Inchiquin did not join in the league, and their extensive influence prevented the MacMahons, the MacNamaras, the O'Connors, the O^Loughhns of Thomond, the O'Dwyers, the O'Eogarties, the O'Meaghers, the O'Moel Ryans, the O'Kennedies, and other chiefs of Tipperary from uniting against the queen. ^ The chief persons that joined the confederacy, were the Lords Lixnaw (Fitzmaurice), Fermoy, (Eoche), Mountgarret (Butler), Cahir (Butler), the Knight of Kerry, the Knight of Glyn, the White Knight, the three last bemg Geraldines, at the head of which sept O^Neill placed James, sou of Thomas Fitzgerald, surnamed the Red, and nephew of the last Earl of Desmond, being known in history as the sugan or straw rope Earl. This was the leader of the confederates, who in Cork and Kerry were supported by most of the MacCarthies, O^SuUivans, O^Driscolls, O^Donoghues, O^Donevans and O^Mahons, and some months after the expedition of Norris, Thomas Burke, brother of the Baron of Castleconnell, left the queen^s party and went over to the confederates, but went back again, and was subsequently killed with his brother. Lord Castleconnell, by one Dermod O^Connor, to whom they had refused

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 68

27. O'Brien of Thomond besieges Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1175

    Around 1175, O'Brien of Thomond surrounded Limerick with a large force. The troops refused to march under anyone but Raymond, forcing Strongbow to restore Raymond to command to relieve the city.

    Read the passage

    In the year 1175, according to Ware, who follows the account given by English authors, Henry 11. sent Nicholas Prior of Willingford, and William Eitz-Aldehn, ancestor of the De Burgos, to Ireland, with the bull of Pope Alexander III., which confirmed that of Adrian, and was read and approved of in an assembly of bishops at Waterford, conferring on this Prince the title of Lord of Ireland and other privileges. But there is no mention of this in the Irish Annals. — After discharging this commission, Fitz-Aldelm and Nicholas, it is stated, repaired to the King in Normandy, when they succeeded so far in prejudicing Henry against Eaymond, that he ordered his recall. — Just, however, as he was on the point of departing, O^'Brien of Thomond surrounded Limerick with a large force, and the troops refusing to march under any but Eaymond, Strongbow was obhged to restore him to

    " Le reis O'Brien vet conseiller At gentil cuntguerrer Qu'il feit prendre li trecheur Si li feit livrer a deshonur." — V. 2094.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 28

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries a story from 1175. That year, Henry II sent Nicholas Prior of Willingford and William Fitz-Aldelm, ancestor of the De Burgos, to Ireland with a bull from Pope Alexander III, confirming the earlier bull of Adrian. It was read and approved at an assembly of bishops at Waterford, conferring on Henry the title of Lord of Ireland. The Irish Annals make no mention of this. After that commission, Fitz-Aldelm and Nicholas went to the King in Normandy. There they succeeded in prejudicing Henry against Raymond, and Henry ordered his recall. But just as Raymond was on the point of departing, O'Brien of Thomond surrounded Limerick with a large force. The troops refused to march under anyone but Raymond, and Strongbow was obliged to restore him to command to relieve the city.

28. O'Brien's Bridge destroyed during Sexten's mayoralty

    O'Briensbridge · townland · Clare · 1535–1537

    During the mayoralty of Edmond Sexten (1535–1537), O'Brien's Bridge was destroyed. This allowed raiders from Thomond to rush into the rest of Munster and return safely with their plunder, highlighting the bridge's strategic importance.

    Read the passage

    In the 27th and 28th Henry 8th : Edmond Sexten beuig Mayor, O'Brien's ' Bridge was destroyed, by which the robbers of Thomoud rushed into the rest of the Province of Munster and safely returned Anth their preys. This Edmond Sexten was born in Limerick, but descended from the family of the Sesnans in Thomond. He passed over into England where he became sewer of the king's chamber from whom he obtained in the late catastrophes of rehgion two monasteries in Limerick, one of the Holy Cross, and the other of St. Prancis with all its funds and profits. At length the citizens being offended, having obtained the royal letters, he was admitted into the Mayoralty

    ' O'Donoughue's Historj' of the O'Briens. ' State Papers.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 49

29. Raising of the Siege of Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1690

    On 31 August 1690, William's army raised the siege of Limerick and withdrew. Many local Protestants seized the opportunity to leave the area and retreat with the withdrawing Williamite forces.

    Read the passage

    The soldiers were in hopes that William woidd give orders^ for a second attack, and seemed resolved to have the city, or lose all their lives ; but tliis was too great a risk to run at one place ; and they did not know how his ammunition was gone, especially by the former day's work. They continued however their batteries ; and then a storm of rain and other bad weather began to threaten, which fell on Friday the 29th in good earnest ; upon which Wniiam calhng another Council of War, concluded the safest way was to quit the siege, without which they could not have secui-ed their heavy cannon, which they drew off from the batteries by degrees, and found much difficulty in marching them five miles next day. Sunday the last of August, all the army drew off; most of the Protestants that lived in that part of the country taking the opportunity of removing further from Limerick with the army ; and " would rather leave theii- estates and aU their substance in the enemies' hands, than trust their persons any more in theh power."" Harris, too, speaks of the wet season and a scarcity of ammunition, as the occasion of the raising of the siege. The heavy baggage and cannon were sent off, and the next day the army decamped, and marched towards Clonmel._ The apologists of WiUiam have endeavoui-ed to throw the cause of the failure on the weather, not on the bravery of the soldiers, citizens and women of Limerick.

    The Duke of Berwick m his memoirs states that the enemy lost_ two thousand men in the assault. There were ten thousand of William's picked soldiers, includmg the Brandenburghers, the Danes, &c. engaged in it ; because

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 138

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is the city where William's siege was raised on the 31st of August 1690. William's soldiers had been in hopes he would give orders for a second attack, and seemed resolved to have the city or lose all their lives. But his ammunition was gone, especially from the former day's work. They continued their batteries, and then a storm of rain and bad weather began to threaten, which fell on Friday the 29th in good earnest. William called another Council of War and concluded the safest way was to quit the siege. They drew off their heavy cannon from the batteries by degrees, and found much difficulty marching them five miles the next day. On Sunday the 31st of August, all the army drew off. Most of the Protestants that lived in that part of the country took the opportunity of removing further from Limerick with the army, and, in the words of the source, "would rather leave their estates and all their substance in the enemies' hands, than trust their persons any more in their power." Harris speaks of the wet season and a scarcity of ammunition as the occasion of the raising of the siege. The heavy baggage and cannon were sent off, and the next day the army decamped and marched towards Clonmel. William's apologists have endeavoured to throw the cause of the failure on the weather, not on the bravery of the soldiers, citizens and women of Limerick. The Duke of Berwick states that the enemy lost two thousand men in the assault. There were ten thousand of William's picked soldiers, including the Brandenburghers, the Danes, and others engaged in it.

30. Richard II lands at Waterford, 1394

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1394

    King Richard II landed in Waterford with a formidable army of 4,000 men-at-arms and 30,000 archers. He remained a week, received homage of Anglo-Irish lords, and confirmed the charter to the Abbey of Holy Cross.

    Read the passage

    In the year 1394, Richard the Second, king of England, landed in Waterford. He is said to have been stimulated to undertake his new enterprise by a taunt uttered by the German Electors, from Avhom his ambassadors had in vain solicited the Imperial Crown of Germany ; the Electors pronouncing him unworthy of that high dignity, as neither being able to keep the conquests

    ' In 1367 the statutes of Kilkennj' were passed prohibiting the use of the Irish language, costume and customs, the presentation of Irishmen to ecclesiastical benefices as well as their admission into religious houses. The practice of the Brehon Laws and the entertaining of bards and minstrels were b}' it declared penal. We have great pleasure in stating the curious fact, that by the returns of the late census, it appears that we have in this year, 1864, more people speaking Irish than existed at the passing of this atrocious measure. We notice, too, with very great satisfaction, that the study of the Irish language is increasing rapidly every year, even among the better informed classes of Irishmen.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 39

31. Sacristy of St. Mary's destroyed in first siege, rebuilt, destroyed again

    King's Island · townland · Limerick

    The sacristy of St. Mary's Cathedral, which opened on the transept and chancel, was demolished by the battery in the King's Island during the first siege. It was rebuilt, as shown by the spear-headed doorway, but after the second siege it was not rebuilt and the present Blue School was partly erected on its site.

    Read the passage

    This is the first instance of a tower placed in the facade in Ireland, or perhaps in England, and is supposed by Wilkinson to be a portion of the original palace of Donald O'Brien.^ The grand church at Manister, built by an O'Brien, twenty-four years before, also had a tower, now no more, on the south side of the western front, and was larger than St. Mary's cathedral, far more ornate, and altogether more carefully got up. We take it, then, that this unsightliness was permitted because the architect, the first of his day, knew no better. The sacristy of St. Mary's opened on the transept and chancel. The battery in the King's Island demolished it at the first siege. It Avas rebuilt, as the spear-headed doorway, an laidying monument of perverted taste, shows. After the second siege, which was as fatal to it as was the first, it was not rebuilt. Then it was that the eastern wall of the cathedral, probably, Avas moved back, and the sacristy too Avas sacrificed to public convenience. On its site the present Blue School Avas partly erected.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 318

    As the companion tells it

    Close to King's Island, you're near the site of the sacristy of St. Mary's Cathedral. The sacristy opened on the transept and chancel. The battery in the King's Island demolished it during the first siege. It was rebuilt afterwards, as the spear-headed doorway shows, described in the record as a lying monument of perverted taste. Then came the second siege, which was as fatal to it as the first, and this time it was not rebuilt. The eastern wall of the cathedral was probably moved back, and the sacristy too was sacrificed to public convenience. On its site the present Blue School was partly erected. The cathedral tower itself is thought to be a portion of the original palace of Donald O'Brien, and is the first instance of a tower placed in the facade in Ireland, or perhaps in England. The grand church at Manister, built by an O'Brien twenty-four years before, also had a tower on the south side of the western front, now no more, and was larger than St. Mary's, far more ornate, and altogether more carefully got up.

32. Sailor's Home foundation stone laid in Frederick Street

    Frederick Street · street · Meath · 1856

    In July 1856 the Mayor laid the foundation stone of a building intended for a Sailor's Home in Frederick Street, Limerick. The building was never actually used for that purpose.

    Read the passage

    The day was brought to a close by an entertainment wliicli was given by the Rev. William Bourke to the Bishop, Mayor, Corporation, etc. The collection for this church began in 1840, when Mr. S. Hastings was secretary. The Mayor, in July, laid the foundation stone of a building intended for a Sailor's Home, in Frederick Street, but never used for that purpose; and presided at a grand banquet which was given to the Viceroy, the Earl of Carlisle, in the theatre, on the same night.

    For the year after (1857) Dr. Thomas Kane was elected, a second time, to the Mayoralty; and on this occasion a proceeding was taken by the Corporation, which deserves notice, from the fact that it was found inoperative almost immediately after its adoption. To insure the return of Dr. Kane, a majority of the Corporation, consisting of twenty -seven members, carried a resolution by which what is termed " the rotatory system" was adopted. By this resolution it was decided that a Catholic and Protestant should fill the office of Mayor each alternate year; a stretch of liberality on the part of the Catholic majority of the Council which has been rarely paralleled in other places, and of which there is no record, or anything approaching to it, where the Protestant party are numerically the stronger. But though the resolution was rescinded the following year, on the ground that it produced anything but harmony in the council, it was not until the year 1864 that it was practically abolished.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 296

33. Schomberg's army lands near Carrickfergus

    near Carrickfergus · town · Antrim · 1689

    The Duke of Schomberg's forces, comprising ten thousand foot and horse raised in England for William of Orange, landed on Tuesday 13 August 1689 within a mile and a half of Carrickfergus, after sailing from Chester and encamping at Neston.

    Read the passage

    I HAVE briefly sketched in tlie foregoing chapter the rapid progress of events which preceded the grand crisis at which we have arrived, and which was to decide for ages the fate of a country that had trembled so long in the balance. Prom whatever cause arising. King James did not afford to his supporters that confidence which he might have inspired among men who had bled for their principles, and who had hoped, when he came to the throne, that their rights and liberties would receive a becoming recognition. On the other hand, the Protestant party, which for so long a period had enjoyed immunity and protection for their most revolting excesses, which had obtained the possessions of the Irish proprietors, who had been driven forth with unheard-of cruelty, from their lauds, were now resolved to hold what they had obtained, and to resist opposition from whatever quarter it might arrive. William had already an immense following in England; and strengthened by a powerful party, he resolved to measure weapons with his father-in-law, King James, and to make Ireland the battle-ground on which the mighty issue was to be decided. On the 12th of March, 1689, James landed at Kinsale from Prance, having about 1800 men with him. He proceeded immediately from Cork to DubHn, where Lord Tyrconnell, whom he had constituted Lord Lieutenant, and the entire Cathohc people, received him with open arms as the friend and dehverer, in whom they hoped to find a king equal to the tremendous emergency that had arisen.^ He entered Dublin on Palm Sunday the 24th, amid the most extraordinary display of joy — the streets were lined with soldiers, and the windows were hung with tapestry — the King on horseback. Whilst active, energetic, and powerful preparations were making on this side of the Channel, to sustain the legitimate king, and vindicate the rights of a nation which had so long and so grievously suffered, eighteen regiments of foot and four or five of horse were raised in England for the service of the Prince of Oran_ge in Ireland. The levies were made with very great speed ; for in five or six vveeks the regiments were completed. In the Tower of London, however, theie were not sufficient arms, which had to be sent for to Holland to supply the soldiery that were destined for this country. ^ The army thus raised, after marching to Chester, and encamping at Neston, embarked on the 8th of August, under the command of the Duke Schonberg, General of all the forces of WHliara and Mary ; Count Solmes, General of the Eoot, and several great oificers more, with ten thousand foot and horse : they set sail at High Lake, and landed on Tuesday, the 13th, in the afternoon about three o'clock, within a mile and a-haK of Carrickfergus. It is a strange circumstance that

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 120

34. Shallee ceded as ransom for Brien

    Shallee · townland · Clare · 1564–1566

    After Teige O'Brien escaped captivity and united with Donald O'Brien against the Earl of Thomond, the Earl's forces were defeated. Brien was captured and not released until Shallee, in the barony of Lichiquin, was given to Teige by way of ransom.

    Read the passage

    By the dissensions between the Earls of Ormond and Desmond, Munster was almost ruined, especially Tipperary and Kerry. The barony of Ormond was overrun by Pierce Grace ; and Thomond was as bad as the rest by the wars between Sir Daniel O'Brien and the Earl of Thomond.^ Hooker states that there was now no religion ; he means of course amongst those who, in the name of religion, perpetrated unheard-of iniquities. A great battle was to be fought between the Earls of Desmond and Ormond, concerning certain lands in dispute about the Suir and Cashel. The place selected was Bohermore, near Tipperary town ; immense numbers of their respective English and Irish neighbours crowded together from Cork to the Barrow, and from Logh Garman,^ "to the wide, foamy harbour" of Limerick.'* But "When the hosts came front to front and face to face, the Great God sent the angel of peace to them, so that concord was estabhshed between the hosts ; for, having reflected on the dreadful consequences of the battle, they parted without commg to any engagement on that occasion.''® Soon after this event, Teige, the son of Murrough O'Brien, was taken prisoner at Limerick, by order of the Lord Justice, and sent to Dublin to be imprisoned, and it was universally said at the time that the Earl of Thomond had a hand in his capture.^ Teige escaped from his bondage two years afterwards, when meeting Donald O'Brien, who had exerted himself to set aside the Earldom of Thomond before Connor's accession, united in opposition to the Earl, who raised many encampments against them; but the result of the fighting was that the Earl's people were defeated, many of them slain, and Brien, who was taken, was not given up until Shallee, in the barony of Lichiquin, was given to Teige by way of ransom. Ballycarr, the residence of the sons of Murrough, was afterwards taken and demolished by the Earl, who had brought ordnance and forces from Limerick for that purpose.^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 58

35. Terraced gardens on Henry Street overlooking the Shannon

    Henry Street · street · Limerick

    Extensive terraced gardens on Henry Street occupy about an acre, formed on arches 25 to 40 feet high, with flights of steps and terraces commanding views of the Shannon, the Clare Hills, Tervoe, Farranshone and other landmarks. The crown rents the stores beneath as bonding stores for the Customs.

    Read the passage

    Henry-street, and occupy about an acre of ground ; they are formed on arches varying in height from 25 to 40 feet. Flights of steps lead from one elevation to another — the side terraces are 150 feet long, by 30 wide — the central one 180 feet long, by 40 wide, and the lower 200 feet long, and 100 feet wide, exclusive of what had been the melon and cucumber ground, which is 80 feet square. The top of the highest terrace wall is 70 feet above the street, and commands an extensive view of tlie Shannon, the Clare Hills, Tervoe, the residence of the Right Hon. William Monsell, M.P., Farranshone, the estate of the Marquis of Lansdowne, &c., &c. The redundant moisture is conveyed away through tubes concealed in the hutments of the arches to the main sewer. The tubes are stopped in summer to retain the moisture. The damp is prevented from penetrating to the extensive stores under the gardens by flags cemented together. Those stores are rented by the crown on a very long lease, at a large sum per annum, and have been used as bonding stores for many years by the Customs. The House which had been the Banking House, and residence of Mr. Roche, has been rented since 1858 to the Limerick Institution, which removed from the house No. 49, on the south side of the street. The Institution was established in 1809, with reading and news rooms, aoid library. The admission is by ballot, and payment of an annual subscription, or the purchase of a life membership.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 205

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on Henry Street sit terraced gardens covering about an acre, built on arches that rise from 25 to 40 feet. Flights of steps lead from one level to another. The side terraces run 150 feet long and 30 wide. The central one is 180 feet long and 40 wide. The lowest is 200 feet long and 100 wide, besides what had been the melon and cucumber ground, which measures 80 feet square. The top of the highest terrace wall stands 70 feet above the street and looks out over the Shannon, the Clare Hills, Tervoe, the residence of the Right Hon. William Monsell, M.P., Farranshone, the estate of the Marquis of Lansdowne, and more. Redundant moisture drains away through tubes hidden in the arches to the main sewer. In summer those tubes are stopped to hold the moisture. Flags cemented together keep the damp from reaching the stores beneath the gardens. The crown rents those stores on a long lease, at a large yearly sum, and the Customs have used them as bonding stores for years. The house that had been the banking house and residence of Mr. Roche has been rented since 1858 to the Limerick Institution, which moved from number 49 on the south side of the street. The Institution was established in 1809, with reading and news rooms and a library. Admission is by ballot, and payment of an annual subscription, or the purchase of a life membership.

36. Thomas Grady's poetic retreat at Belmont

    Belmont · street · Galway

    Thomas Grady wrote political poetry from his retreat at Belmont, where it was said that when a happy thought struck him he would ring his bell at dead of night, have a light struck, and sit in his library until morning composing verse.

    Read the passage

    Andrew Fletcher, of Saltouns, says he knew a wise man who beheved it mattered not who made the laws if he had the making of the ballads. — These times were rife in ballads and poetical pamphlets. Mr. Thomas Grady, as we have seen, wrote from his retreat at Belmont, where it is said, when a happy thought struck him, it was his custom, at dead of night, to ring the bell, to ask the servant to strike a light, proceed to the library, and there sit up, perhaps, till morning, throwing off in verse the sentiments by which he was actuated, lest by postponement he should forget them.^ There were other and not bad poets too, and ballad rhymers, at the time^ .

    Just about the very time when the courtiers and flatterers of George the Fourth, and some sanguine Irish patriots, who believed in the reaUty of his favorable intentions towards Ireland, were calculating upon the happy results of the Royal visit, in August, 1821, disturbances of a very serious character again broke out in the County Limerick, and parts of Cork and Tipperary, as if in mockery of the predictions of the tranquilising effects of that visit which were made by Mr. W. Conyngham Plunket, and other admirers and beneficiaries of that deceitful and profligate Sovereign. Mr. Plunket, indeed, who had always acted with the small, but noble and energetic party who represented Irish national interests in the English House of Commons, the friends and followers of Grattan, Ponsonby Shaw, and Sir John Newport, had been appointed his Majesty's Attorney-General, at the King's particular

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 255

    As the companion tells it

    Along this street at Belmont, Thomas Grady had his retreat, where he wrote political poetry and ballads in a time rife with poetical pamphlets. Andrew Fletcher of Saltoun once said he knew a wise man who believed it mattered not who made the laws if he had the making of the ballads. That was the spirit of the age Grady belonged to. When a happy thought struck him, it was his custom, at dead of night, to ring the bell, ask the servant to strike a light, and proceed to his library. There he would sit up, perhaps till morning, throwing off in verse the sentiments by which he was actuated, lest by postponement he should forget them. He was not alone. There were other, and not bad, poets too, and ballad rhymers at the time. The contrast was sharp. In August 1821, just as courtiers and flatterers of George the Fourth, and some sanguine Irish patriots who believed in the reality of his favourable intentions towards Ireland, were calculating upon the happy results of the Royal visit, disturbances of a very serious character broke out in County Limerick, and parts of Cork and Tipperary. It was as if in mockery of the predictions of tranquilising effects made by Mr. W. Conyngham Plunket and other admirers of that sovereign.

37. Twenty-six arrested at Killaloe including Colonel M'Cormick

    Killaloe · town · Clare · 1798

    Major Purdon's corps brought in 26 men from Killaloe, one of whom was a Colonel M'Cormick, along with a quantity of captured pike-heads.

    Read the passage

    Persons are hourly brought iu from the country, charged with aiding and abetting rebellion. The Doonas Cavalry brought in Francis Macnamara, Esq., of Ardcloone}', near O'Brien's Bridge, charged with holding a captain's commission in tlie ranks of the disaffected. Major Purdon's corps brought in 2() from Killaloe, one of whom was a Colonel M'Cormick — also a quantity of captured pike-heads. Captain Studdert's corp.s from Kilkiaheu escorted three defenders, with their pikes hung round their bodies.

    June 13. Andrew Pvyan, Patrick Carroll, Michael Callinan, and — Sheehy, charged with having pikes in their possession, were vrhipped by the drummers of the Garrison.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 235

38. Verdict for Independents at Clare assizes

    Ennis · town · Clare · 1814

    In March 1814, a jury at Clare assizes before Baron Smith found in favour of the Independents, asserting their chartered rights to the franchise and freedom of Limerick city by birth, servitude, and marriage, breaking the Smyth and Vereker monopoly.

    Read the passage

    The fight between the Independents and the Corporation was brought to an issue at Clare assizes before Baron Smith iu 1814, when on the 11th of March, a verdict was given m favour of the Independents, by which they asserted their chartered rights to the franchise and freedom of the city, by birth, by servitude, and by marriage. Before this, no person whatever had been admitted to freedom, no matter their rights, who were not of the Smyth and

    December 1st — The Mayor, with Aldermaa Watson, and some other gentlemen, went through the town, and solicited the subscriptions of the citizens for the poor and indigent, in place of illuminations for recent victories over the French by the Allies. £80 was raised.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 246

39. Violent Whig-Tory disputes split Limerick Corporation

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1715

    The year 1715 was marked by violent disputes between Whig and Tory — or Orange and old Loyalist — parties within the Limerick Corporation. Though united in hostility to Catholic fellow citizens, the factions engaged in mutual recriminations and underhand representations to government.

    Read the passage

    The year 1715, was rendered famous in Limerick by violent disputes between the Whig and Tory — ratber between tbe Orange and the old Loyalists parties, into wbicb tbe Corporation was already split. As yet, tbe notion of tbe success of tbe Prince of Wales, King James's son, bad not ceased to be entertained by a considerable number, even of Protestants in Ireland; and wlulst tbeir " bonours''' were dividing tbe loaves and fisbes among themselves, and leaving a legacy of debt and poverty to their successors to the seventh generation, jealousies arose among them, which developed tbeir ugly features in the shape of mutual recriminations on many occasions. Though they joined ui hate against their CathoHc fellow citizens — if indeed CathoHcs could now be designated by tbe name of citizens at aU, they did not join m love among themselves. This state of things was exemplified in a remarkable manner early in this year, when " underhand'-' representations were made to the government, reflecting on the loyalty to tbe Hanoverian rule, which bad just commenced on tbe death of Queen Anne, of certain corporators, mcluding Mr. WiUiam Pranklin, the Mayor, and involving in the charge, tbe Protestant Bishop, Dr. Smyth, who, it was alleged by bis enemies " disturbed the government," and " was present at a meetmg of the Corporate Body, when a sum of £150 was improperly voted to His Worship the Mayor.-" So gross and injurious a charge was promptly met and refuted, for on the lltb of October, a meeting of the Corporation was held, at which it was resolved, " that it does not appear to us, that the Eight Eev. Pather in God, Thomas Lord Bishop of Limerick, has busied himself in our corporate affairs, and to obstruct the service of the government. In testimony whereof, we have put our bands, this lltb of October, 1715."

    This document, or resolution, wbicb is rather obscure in its phraseology, bears tbe subjoined signatures : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 177

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead, the road takes you through Limerick. In 1715, this city was marked by violent disputes that split the Limerick Corporation in two. The factions were the Whig and Tory parties, or more precisely the Orange and the old Loyalists. Though they were united in hostility toward their Catholic fellow citizens, they could not join in love among themselves. At this time, a considerable number of Protestants in Ireland still entertained the notion that the Prince of Wales, King James's son, might succeed. Meanwhile, the city's honours were dividing the loaves and fishes among themselves and leaving what the source calls a legacy of debt and poverty to their successors to the seventh generation. Jealousies arose among them and showed their ugly features in mutual recriminations on many occasions. Early in the year, underhand representations were made to the government, reflecting on the loyalty of certain corporators to the Hanoverian rule that had just commenced on the death of Queen Anne. The charges involved Mr. William Pranklin, the Mayor, and the Protestant Bishop, Dr. Smyth. His enemies alleged that he disturbed the government and was present at a meeting of the Corporate Body when a sum of £150 was improperly voted to the Mayor. The charge was promptly met and refuted. On the 11th of October, a meeting of the Corporation resolved that it did not appear to them that the Right Reverend Father in God, Thomas Lord Bishop of Limerick, had busied himself in their corporate affairs or obstructed the service of the government. The resolution was signed that same day, the 11th of October, 1715.

40. Abandoned dam project for Limerick river

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1834

    In 1834, £45,000 was raised by government loan and spent on an engineering project to construct a dam across the river at Limerick, converting the stream into a floating dock. Engineers reported it would flood parts of the city, and the project was abandoned.

    Read the passage

    In the year 1834' a new act was procured, under which a sum of £45,000 was raised by loan from government, and was expended uppn an engineering project, which was subsequently abandoned as impracticable. This project had for its end the construction of a dam across the river, and the conversion of the stream into a large floating dock. _ Engineers, however, of eminence reported that such a dock would occasionally lay a great part of the city under water. The advantage derived by the city from the £45,000 thus expended was the construction of a noble line of quays. In 1847, a third act was procured ; and an additional sum of £o4,000 was advanced, which was expended in the construction of the existing dock, which was opened, as we have stated in the first chapter of this work, m 1853. The dock covers a space of eight acres, and was constructed by John Long, Esq., C.E. The dock is capable of accommodating eighty seagoing vessels, large and small, and is entered by dock gates seventy feet wide. The depth is from twenty to twenty-five feet. The total cost was £54,000, a moderate expenditure on a work of such extent and depth.

    When the original act of 1824 was procured, the estimate was that the income of the port would be £1,025, and of the bridge about £6,000 a year. The income from the bridge is almost nothing, but that from the port has risen from £1100 in 1825 to over £9,900 in 1856.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 267

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Limerick, you pass along a river where, in 1834, a new act was procured and £45,000 was raised by loan from government. That money was spent on an engineering project to build a dam across the river and convert the stream into a large floating dock. Engineers of eminence were consulted, and they reported that such a dock would occasionally lay a great part of the city under water. The project was abandoned as impracticable. The one advantage the city drew from the £45,000 spent was the construction of a noble line of quays. Later, in 1847, a third act was procured and an additional £54,000 was advanced, spent on the existing dock, which opened in 1853. That dock covers eight acres, was built by John Long, and can accommodate eighty seagoing vessels, large and small. It is entered by dock gates seventy feet wide, with a depth of twenty to twenty-five feet. When the original act of 1824 was procured, the estimate was that the income of the port would be £1,025, and of the bridge about £6,000 a year. The income from the bridge is almost nothing, but that from the port rose from £1,100 in 1825 to over £9,900 in 1856.

41. Mist on Keeper Hill and Cratloe Woods

    near Slievekimalta or Keeper Hill · mountain or mountain range · Tipperary · 1690

    On the morning of 27 August 1690, the day of the great assault, a dense mist lay on Keeper Hill and Cratloe Woods after heavy overnight rain, leaving the ground near the Williamite camp almost untenable.

    Read the passage

    Like tlie matrons of Sparta, they infused life into the drooping spirits of those ■who fought for their country — and in tones not to be misunderstood, conjured them to make ramparts of their bodies rather than return from the walls, except amid shouts of victory ! The morning of the 27th of August dawned cloudily ; a mist was dense on Keeper Hill and on Cratloe Woods ; ram had fallen in abundance during the previous night — the ground near the camp was almost untenable from the water. i Lord Macaulay^ admits that all about the city at this period was a swamp — the view from the towers of St. Mary's, he says, did not stretch over smiling meadows and waving fields of corn — all was bog and water. Between Newcastle and Smgland there was a marsh, whilst between Groody and the river, it was impossible to make an approach by infantry or cavalry, owing to the swampy nature of the ground. Monabraher, or the Friar's Bog, was "beyond the water, and it was well nigh impassable. Within the walls all night, there was deep silence alhed to the most resolute and sleepless determination and activity on the part of soldiers and citizens. And now came the eventful moment of the attack, as day broke through the thick rain which continued to fall. The attack was commenced, according to Storey^ by a detachment of nme companies of Grenadiers, supported by a hundred French (Huguenot) officers and volunteers. The Grenadiers were armed with hand-grenades, which they cast away from them mth tremendous velocity, hideously shouting m the jargon of their country. The bells with which their waist belts were furnished made a tmkhng, clanking noise, such as may be imagined from the jarring and jingling of so many of them together as the men leaped and ran in hot haste to the covered way and the two forts near John's Gate, which they were ordered to occupy. A hand to hand, desperate encounter now took j)lace between the assailants and defenders at this point; but such were the numbers, the violence, the strength, and impetuosity of the Grenadiers and theii- supporters that the soldiers of the Irish army gave way ! Here too, the tact and foresight of Sarsfield were manifest. Had not the Irish given way and retreated when they found it unpossible wholly to repel the assault, they would have permitted the Williamites to make a lodgement at this important pomt— and nothing coidd have prevented its permanent occupation by the enemy in that event, and most likely the reduction of the city within a much shorter time than even William anticipated, flushed as he already was with the assured hope of complete success. Such at least was the thought that possessed the souls of the grim Grenadiers, and the fierce Huguenots at tliis moment. "The Grenadiers," says Dr. Molleneux,* " were seconded by other detachments, who went on with that heat and courage, that having gained the coimterscarp, and a fort which the Irish had under the walls, they, instead of lodgmg themselves there, as they were ordered to do, and not to advance any further, mounted the counterscarp, following the Irish that fled that way, but these being entrenched behind the breach and having planted cannon against it," (this was the masked battery at Curry's Lane) " they were cut off" ! It must be added, that the moment the retreat of the Irish soldiery was discerned by their comrades in the streets, and above all by the women, it is impossible to describe the sudden, overwhelming reaction which at once took place. Every feeling that could arm citizens and soldiers, with vengeance,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 136

42. Park townland: industrious inhabitants and emigration

    Park · townland · Limerick

    Park, a townland within the municipal boundary of Limerick, was noted for its thrifty and industrious inhabitants who cultivated vegetables, reared cattle and pigs, and supplied citizens. Much emigration of young men and women occurred from Park in recent years, and families paid high rents of £8–£10 per acre for small holdings.

    Read the passage

    • Park is a townland within the municipal boundary of Limerick. Park House is the residence of the Catholic Bishop of Limericlf. The inhabitants of Park are among the most thrifty and industrious in any part of Ireland. They pay from ^£8 to wf 10 an acre tor their patches of land, the largest holders not renting more than from three to four acres. They cultivate vegetables, witli which they supply the citizens ; they rear cattle and pigs, and grow potatoes and turnips to feed their cattle and pigs, and for their own use also. They manure the land very highly, and being within the Borough they are subject to high rates and taxes. There has been nmch emigration from Park in recent years, of youngmen andyoung women especially. 'J'he names generally of the residents are Cunneen, or O'Ounneen, one of the most ancient names in the South of Ireland, tradition having it that it was with a chieftain of that name Saint Patrick dwelt when he visited Singland, which forms part of the parish of St. Patrick in which Park is situated ; Hannan, or Haimeen, Quilligan, Clancy, and MacNamara, or by abbreviation Mac, of which there are a great number in Park. The AlacNamaras are said to have settled in Park since they were driven from Clare in the wars of the seventeenth century. It was through the old road of Park that King William is said to have passed to the Shannon in 1690, when he made his inspection of the river, in order to obtain a knowledge of the passage of it, which was effected so successfully the year afterwards by Ginkle. The site of the ^^C AU ^ee, or the King's gate, which divided Park from Corbally, and from which William passed, is yet pointed out, within a short distance of the river. There are several very handsome residences at Corbally, including the beautiful one of Pierce Shannon, Esq., grandson of Alderman Pierce Shannon. The ancient cemetery of Killeen is situated in the " Killeen field," at Corballj'. It has ceased for many years to be a burying place. Recently fragments of cannon balls and human bones have been found in this field.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 269

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Park, within the municipal boundary of Limerick. Park House is the residence of the Catholic Bishop of Limerick. The inhabitants of Park are described as among the most thrifty and industrious in any part of Ireland. They pay from £8 to £10 an acre for their patches of land, the largest holders not renting more than three to four acres. They cultivate vegetables, with which they supply the citizens. They rear cattle and pigs, and grow potatoes and turnips to feed their cattle and pigs, and for their own use also. They manure the land very highly, and being within the Borough they are subject to high rates and taxes. There has been much emigration from Park in recent years, of young men and young women especially. The names generally of the residents are Cunneen, or O'Cunneen, one of the most ancient names in the South of Ireland. Tradition has it that it was with a chieftain of that name that Saint Patrick dwelt when he visited Singland, which forms part of the parish of St. Patrick in which Park is situated. Other names include Hannan, or Hanneen, Quilligan, Clancy, and MacNamara, or Mac, of which there are a great number in Park. The MacNamaras are said to have settled in Park since they were driven from Clare in the wars of the seventeenth century. It was through the old road of Park that King William is said to have passed to the Shannon in 1690, when he made his inspection of the river, in order to obtain a knowledge of the passage of it, which was effected so successfully the year afterwards by Ginkle. The site of the Callee, or the King's gate, which divided Park from Corbally, and from which William passed, is yet pointed out, within a short distance of the river.

43. Abbey River frozen over in Limerick

    Abbey River · river · Donegal · 1814

    On January 23rd, the Abbey River froze over for the first time in thirty years. Great numbers of people gathered on the ice, and the Mayor actively urged them to walk on land lest the ice break.

    Read the passage

    Jan. 23rd The Abbey River frozen over, a circumstance that had not happened for thirty

    years before. Great numbers of people on the ice ; the Mayor active in inducing them to walk on the land, lest the ice should break under their weight.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 246

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up along the Abbey River now. On January 23rd, 1814, this river froze over, something that had not happened for thirty years before. Great numbers of people went out on the ice. The Mayor was active in urging them to walk on the land, lest the ice should break under their weight.

44. Battle of Bunratty, 1311

    near Bunratty · parish · Clare · 1311

    In 1311, the battle of Bunratty was fought in which 630 gallowglasses of Donogh's army were killed and De Burgho taken prisoner. The besiegers were commanded by the Red Earl of Ulster.

    Read the passage

    The first entry in the Annals of the Four Masters for 1310, states that " Conor O^Brien the best roydamna (heir presumptive, literally, ' makings of a king,^) was treacherously slain by the black Enghsh."^ In the year 1311, was fought the battle of Bunratty, in which 630 gallowglasses of Donogh^'s army were killed, and De Burgho taken prisoner. The besiegers were commanded by the Red Earl of Ulster, Clonroad Castle was burned to the ground ; Donogh himseK was treacherously slain by a relative, and his successor Dermod died m the same year in which he was chosen.'' These events are somewhat differently recorded by the Annalists of Clomnacnoise, who state that he was deposed and succeeded by IMurtagh son of Turlogh. On the death of Dermod, his kinsmen Donogh and Brian Bane, grandsons of Brian Roe, once more took the field with the families of the Hy-Mbloyd. They were defeated at the battle of Tully O'Dea, and obhged to fly to Bunratty to seek the assistance of De Clare, which was granted. In the year 1313 Donough, supported by the English, vanquished his enemies, drove Murtagh O^Brien and his brother into Connaught, and was himself formally inaugurated King of Thomond.^ The next year, however, a new di\dsion of territory took place by a decision of the States of Thomond, who awarded the eastern portion to Murtagh with the addition of Clonroad and Hy Cormac, the present barony of Islands. Muitagh O^Brien, encouraged by the in-

    remaiuing within.'' And as the sows also turned out useless to the besiegers, being taken in a successful sally on the 27th of Feburary, they raised the siege.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 38

45. Benburb standards deposited in Church of St. Francis, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1646

    On 13 July, official news of the Benburb victory and thirty-three captured standards were brought to the Nuncio in Limerick by Father O'Hartegan, chaplain to the army. After a great procession of soldiers and civilians, the standards were deposited in the Church of St. Francis.

    Read the passage

    On the 13th of July official news of the victory of Benburb and thirtythree captured standards were brought to the Nuncio in Limerick by Father O'Hartegan, S.J., chaplain to the army, and after a great procession of the soldiers and civilians, were deposited in the Church of St. Francis. This Father O'Hartegan had been for some years the agent of the Confederation at the French Court, and his letters show him to have been a perfect man of business and a true Irishman. His confrere, Father Plunket, was sent to look after Irish interests in Belgium.

    In 1649, Rinuccini wrote to the Father General praising Father O'Hurley, S. J., rector of the Limerick Colleije, and Father Virdier, sent as visitor to Ireland, gives the following account of Limerick: —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 380

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is where thirty-three captured standards from the Benburb victory were brought in 1646. On the 13th of July, Father O'Hartegan, a Jesuit and chaplain to the army, carried the official news to the Nuncio. O'Hartegan had served for some years as the agent of the Confederation at the French Court, and his letters, in the words of the source, show him to have been "a perfect man of business and a true Irishman." After a great procession of soldiers and civilians, the standards were deposited in the Church of St. Francis. His confrere, Father Plunket, was sent to look after Irish interests in Belgium.

46. Benefactress's bequests to Limerick charitable institutions

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    An unnamed Catholic benefactress left £1000 to build a Magdalen asylum in Limerick city, along with annual endowments for the Fever Hospital, House of Industry, Roman Catholic Schools, Lying-in Hospital, St. Michael's Chapel, the Dispensary, and the poor of four city parishes. She is described as the greatest benefactress to the poor since Dr. Jeremiah Hall.

    Read the passage

    £1000 for building a Magdalen asylum, in this city, and after the death of an old lady, £100 a year for its support for 20 years ; £50 per year for 50 years to the Fever Hospital ; .£40 per year for 21 years to the House of Industry; £80 per year to the Roman Catholic Schools; £30 each per year for 20 years, to the poor of the Parishes of St. Mary's, St. Munchin's, St. John's and St. Michael's ; £10 per year for 50 years to the Lying-in Hospital; £50 per year for 35 years to St. Michael's Chapel ; £5 a year for 20 years to the Dispensary ; £50 for the purchase of books for the poor, She has been the greatest benefactress to the poor since the time of Dr. Jeremiah Hall, — she was a Catholic — most pious — most devoted.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 247

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, there is the story of an unnamed Catholic woman, called most pious and most devoted, reckoned the greatest benefactress to the poor since Doctor Jeremiah Hall. She left £1000 to build a Magdalen asylum in the city, with £100 a year for 20 years to support it. She gave £50 a year for 50 years to the Fever Hospital, £40 a year for 21 years to the House of Industry, £80 a year to the Roman Catholic Schools, and £10 a year for 50 years to the Lying-in Hospital. Saint Michael's Chapel received £50 a year for 35 years, the Dispensary £5 a year for 20 years. The poor of Saint Mary's, Saint Munchin's, Saint John's, and Saint Michael's parishes each got £30 a year for 20 years. She left £50 for books for the poor.

47. Birth of Richard Creagh in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1585

    Richard Creagh, the future Primate of Armagh, was born in the city of Limerick around 1585 to Nicholas Creagh, a merchant, and Joan White. He was apprenticed to a grocer but soon left that trade to pursue studies, eventually going to Louvain to study philosophy and divinity before returning to his native city to teach and preach.

    Read the passage

    1585. This great and illustrious Prelate and Primate of Ireland, was born in the City of Limerick, of honest and industrious parents. His father was Nicholas Creagh, a merchant, and his mother's name was Joan White ; in his youth he was bound apprentice to a grocer, which calling, as he did not like, it being exposed to commit frauds, he soon obtained his indentures, and applied himself closely to his studies, in which he made a great proficiency. He then went to Louvain, where he studied philosophy and divinity, and argued being made a Bachelor. Being promoted, he returned to his native country and city, where he laboured indefatigably by his private teachings, his public sermons, and by his instructing the children and the ignorant in the rudiments of the faith. After thus exerting himself for some time in the mission, he again went abroad, as well to perfect himself more in his learning, as to embrace a more austere and religious life, for which purpose he went to Rome, but was forbid by Pope Pius V. to become a Regular until His Holiness's will was further signified to him, for the Pope designed him for filling the see of Armagh, then vacant by the death of George Dowdall, Archbishop, which he accordingly did ; and as soon as Richard was consecrated he repaired to Ireland [Dowdall died in June, 1558 — Ware], where in a short time after his landing, he was taken and confined in Dublin. After being some time in fetters, he, together with his keeper, made their escape, and he again retired to foreign countries, where, after breathing a little liberty, and understanding that it was the will of his Holiness that he should again return to the mission of Ireland, he according!}' did so, and there, for a while, he most strenuously laboured for the edification of his flock, until he was again taken and brought to Dublin, where he was arraigned for being a transgressor of the law and a breaker of the jail. He justified himself with great presence of mind, acknowledged himself to be a Catholic Prelate, but denied his breaking the jail, whereas his keeper made off along with him. The judge made a malevolent charge to the jury against him — the jury, according to custom, were locked up, but disagreeing to their verdict, they continued some days shut up, living on bread and water, and at length brought him not guilty ; the jury thereupon were imprisoned and fined. The Prelate was transmitted to England, and fettered in a nauseous dark dungeon of the Tower of London ; he was allowed no more light than what served him to eat his victuals by, but which he served to say his oifice with, and he likewise contrived to save the fat of his victuals, and with a rag to make a kind of a candle whereby to have light to say his office. He was at length brought out of this dark dungeon, and lodged in a more lightsome apartment of the Tower. It was during his abode here that the new Bishops appointed by Queen Elizabeth to fill the sees of England, not being able to find any Catholic Bishop to give them consecration, had resource to Archbishop Creagh in the Tower ; for that purpose they therefore invited him to a neighbouring tavern ; they flattered and caressed him ; they offered him his liberty, the choicest church livings, the Queen's favor, and the highest bribes, if he would but consent to consecrate them ; but all their offers were in vain ; he would not betray the

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 68

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is the city where Richard Creagh was born around 1585. His father was Nicholas Creagh, a merchant, and his mother was Joan White. In his youth he was bound apprentice to a grocer, but he did not like that calling, as it was exposed to commit frauds. He soon obtained his indentures and applied himself closely to his studies, in which he made great proficiency. He then went to Louvain, where he studied philosophy and divinity, and was made a Bachelor. Being promoted, he returned to his native country and city, where he laboured indefatigably by his private teachings, his public sermons, and by instructing the children and the ignorant in the rudiments of the faith. After exerting himself for some time in the mission, he went abroad again, both to perfect his learning and to embrace a more austere religious life. For that purpose he went to Rome, but Pope Pius V forbade him to become a Regular, for the Pope designed him to fill the see of Armagh, then vacant by the death of Archbishop George Dowdall. Richard was consecrated and repaired to Ireland, where soon after landing he was taken and confined in Dublin. After some time in fetters, he and his keeper made their escape, and he retired again to foreign countries. Understanding it was the will of his Holiness that he return to the mission of Ireland, he did so, and laboured strenuously for his flock until he was taken again and brought to Dublin, arraigned as a transgressor of the law and a breaker of the jail. He acknowledged himself a Catholic Prelate but denied breaking the jail, saying his keeper made off along with him. The judge made a malevolent charge to the jury. The jury were locked up, disagreed for some days on bread and water, and at length brought him not guilty. The jury were then imprisoned and fined.

48. Bishop Averill dies at Ennismore on visitation

    Ennismore · townland · Kerry · 1771

    Bishop John Averill, consecrated in Christ Church Dublin, died on 14 September 1771 while engaged on his diocesan visitation at Ennismore, County of Kerry. He was interred in the Cathedral of Limerick, where a Latin inscription and English verse record his piety, charity, and benevolence.

    Read the passage

    1770 John Averill,! D.D., Dean of Limerick, was promoted to the bishopric by patent dated December 31st, and was consecrated in Christ Church, Dublin, on 6th of January following, by the Archbishop of Dublin, assisted by the Bishops of Ossory and Clonfert. He was a man eminent and justly beloved for his piety and charity :^but his career of usefulness was soon interrupted, for he was cut off by death on September 14th of that same year, while engaged on his diocesan visitation at Ennismore, in the County of Kerry. He was interred in the Cathedral of Limerick, where the following inscription records his name and virtues :=—

    Hie jacet Recte Johannes Averill, D.D.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 351

49. Bishop Young subscribes to Limerick defence fund, 1790

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1790

    Dr. John Young, Catholic Bishop of Limerick, was one of the first in Limerick to join and subscribe to a fund raised in 1790 for defence of the country against French invasion.

    Read the passage

    But space will not permit us to review minutely the conduct of the Govemmentj principally acting on the advice of Lord Clare^ which preceded the rebellion of 1798. In the glorious days of the volunteers^ pohtical and religious animosities were unknoAvn in Ireland, and therefore the country was great and powerful. There were but two parties — those in favor of, and those opposed to Irish liberty. But from the dissolution of the volunteers, the Government (and in this sketch we have always referred to the Enghsh Government as opposed to the Irish patriots), left no means untried to divide and to sow suspicion between different classes of Irishmen. In this work none was equal to Lord Clare, and when at length the disturbances of 1798 broke out, the Protestants were first made to believe that it was an effort of the Eoman Catholic party against them (though in fact it originated with Protestant republicans) and then, once this feeling got root, and once the Roman Catholics became the leaders of the rebelhon, instead of its tide being stayed with a strong hand. Lord Clare iniquitously allowed it to gain gigantic proportions, in order that the Protestant party might ily from Popish enemies to English traitors for safety. Indeed one of the very first in Limerick to join and subscribe to a fund raised in 1790 for the defence of the country from the French invasion, was the Right Rev. Dr. John Young, Catholic Bishop of Limerick. Had the disturbances of 1798 been put down, as they might have been in"a few days, the Act of union could never have been carried, and no one knew this better than Lord Clare.

    A memorable achievement in '98 was the battle of Colloon)^, which is referred to fuUy in the note, and for which the city of Limerick Regiment of Militia, and its gallant commandant. Colonel Yereker, obtained the highest applause.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 226

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are travelling through a city with a troubled political history around the close of the 18th century. In the days of the volunteers, political and religious animosities were unknown in Ireland, and the country was great and powerful for it. There were but two parties: those in favour of Irish liberty, and those opposed to it. But after the dissolution of the volunteers, the English Government left no means untried to divide and sow suspicion between different classes of Irishmen. Lord Clare was unequalled in this work. When the disturbances of 1798 broke out, the Protestants were first made to believe it was an effort of the Roman Catholic party against them, though in fact it originated with Protestant republicans. Once that feeling took root, and the Roman Catholics became the leaders of the rebellion, Lord Clare iniquitously allowed it to gain gigantic proportions, so that the Protestant party might fly from Popish enemies to English traitors for safety. Against this backdrop of division, one detail stands out. In 1790, a fund was raised for the defence of the country from French invasion. One of the very first in Limerick to join and subscribe to it was the Right Reverend Doctor John Young, the Catholic Bishop of Limerick. No one knew better than Lord Clare that had the disturbances of 1798 been put down, as they might have been in a few days, the Act of Union could never have been carried.

50. Black Castle at Lough Gur

    near Lough Gur · lake or lakes · Limerick

    The Black Castle stands on the isthmus connecting Knockadoon with the surrounding country at Lough Gur. It is a square tower built about the period of the Roses, with its upper story, roof and parapets now gone.

    Read the passage

    The lake, or Lough Gur, lies embedded between high green hills, rendered in several places precipitous by gray limestone rocks, which stand thick and frequent upon their surface. It is almost of a circular, perhaps, more properly, an oval form, being from west to east. In the centre stands a steep hill, called Knockadoon — the hill of the castles or fortresses ; it being defended at the east and south by two (of which hereafter), around whose base the waters spread like a river, varying throughout but little in their breadth. The whole extent seems to have been about two English miles.^ The view of Garrode's Island from Knockadoon is beautiful. At the north side stands the hill of Knocknasilla. The house of a Mr. Harte, sub-agent of Count de Salis, owner of the property, is passed at the west side, and farther on is a fort or lioss, standing above the water's edge on the hill slope, of about seventy-five feet in diameter, and ten feet above the surrounding level. Ascending this hill still higher, are two natural caves in the rock, about which there are some notices of no interest; thence there is a view of the Black Castle at the opposite side, standing at the northeast base of Knockadoon. A quick descent down the hill, and a walk of about a quarter of a mile, brought me sufficiently near it. It is a square, thick tower, evidently built about the period of the Roses ; its upper story, the bower, as well as the roof and parapets, are gone, so also are the outworks, whose site is occupied by a farmhouse and offices, and near it the handsome residence of Mrs. Cleary, sister of E. J. Synan^ Esq., M.P. Crofton Croker was much mistaken in saying that it stood on an island out of the reach of musketry. It stands on the isthmus which connects Knockadoon with the surrounding country, and was placed there, as well as the castle of Killalough — a little further on — for the defence of that almost isolated spot ; but neither castle could be deemed out of the reach of musketry; neither at the Brufi' side is the country in the least rugged, so as to render the approach of cannon a matter of difficulty. In 1600, Sir George Carew, President of Munster to Queen Elizabeth, reconnoitred the place, then held by 200 men for the Earl of Desmond. He found it

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 425

51. Brian Boru forced to retreat at Ballysadare

    Ballysadare · townland · Sligo

    During his expedition to enforce the submission of the Northern Princes, Brian Boru's progress was unopposed until he reached Ballysadare, where the determined attitude of the enemy compelled him to retreat.

    Read the passage

    Brian's progress to enforce the submission of the Northern Princes appears to have been unopposed until he reached the locahty known as Ballysadare, when the determined attitude of the enemy compelled him to retreat. But in his next expedition he was more successful. Accompanied on this occasion, as before, by the dynasts of Leath Mogah, he traversed Meath, and was honorably received at Armagh by Maelmurry, the Archbishop, and left a gold coUar weigliing twenty ounces, as an ofl'ering on the high altar of the Cathedral. Alter this munificent oblation, the value of which may be estimated as about £800, he proceeded to the royal seat of the Dalriadans in Antrim, called Rathmore-Muige-Line, where he received hostages from the Princes of that territory as well as from the other chiefs of Leth-Cuinn.

    Brian made various expeditions of this character, and frequently brought away such chieftains as resisted him to his fortress at Kincora — amongst others, the Lord of Kinel Connel upon his refusing to give hun hostages, which Brian at last extorted by force from the Kinel Eoghaia, thus completing the subjugation of the illustrious house of the northern Hy-NiaUs. This event took place about six years after Brian's offering at Armagh which, occurred in 1004, on which occasion he signed a confirmation of the usual grant to the Clergy of Armagh, under the style of " Imperator Scotormn," an entry which is still extant in the Book of Armagh.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 15

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Brian Boru met the first real resistance on his march to enforce the submission of the Northern Princes. His progress had been unopposed until he reached Ballysadare. Here the determined attitude of the enemy compelled him to retreat. But his next expedition was more successful. Accompanied by the dynasts of Leath Mogah, he traversed Meath and was honorably received at Armagh by Maelmurry, the Archbishop. He left a gold collar weighing twenty ounces as an offering on the high altar of the Cathedral, a gift valued at about £800. After this, he proceeded to the royal seat of the Dalriadans in Antrim, called Rathmore-Muige-Line, where he received hostages from the Princes of that territory and from the other chiefs of Leth-Cuinn. Brian made various expeditions of this character, frequently bringing away chieftains who resisted him to his fortress at Kincora. Among them was the Lord of Kinel Connel, who had refused to give hostages. Brian at last extorted hostages by force from the Kinel Eoghaia, completing the subjugation of the illustrious house of the northern Hy-Niall. This happened about six years after his offering at Armagh, which occurred in 1004, when he signed a confirmation of the usual grant to the Clergy of Armagh under the style of "Imperator Scotorum," an entry still extant in the Book of Armagh.

52. Bunratty Castle built and fortified by Norman leaders

    near Bunratty · parish · Clare · 1276–1277

    After Brian Ruadh O'Brien sought de Clare's assistance to regain his chieftainship, both parties met in Limerick and marched into Clare, where the Castle of Bunratty was built and fortified by the Norman leaders before any successful opposition could be offered.

    Read the passage

    Clare, son of the Earl of Gloucester, then at the head of all the Anglo- Norman forces of Munster, and sought his assistance, oifering him an ample remuneration for his services. They offered him all the land lying betAveen the city of Limerick and the town of Ardsallas, in Clare. De Clare gladly accepted these tenns, and both parties met by agreement in Limerick, from which they marched into Clare ; where, before any successful opposition could be offered them, the Castle of Bunratty was built and fortified by the Norman leaders.

    " A short time afterwards, however, in the year 1277, de Clare put the unfortunate Brian Muadh to death, having had him drawn with horses and torn, not"WT.thstanding that the fidehty of the matrimonial alliance had been ratified by the most solemn oaths on all the ancient relics of Munster ; and it was then indeed that the great wars of Thomond commenced in earnest ; for, notwithstanding the treacherous death of their father, the infatuated soul of Brian Ruadh still adhered to de Clare, and the warfare was kept up with varying success till the year 1318, when Robert de Clare and his son were at last killed, in the battle of Disert O^Dea. After this the party of Brian Ruadh were compelled to fly once more over the Shannon into Ara, in Tipperary, where their descendants have ever since remained under the clann designation of the O^Briens of Ara.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 37

53. Bunratty Castle built by De Clare and attacked in 1638

    near Bunratty · parish · Clare · 1638–1643

    Bunratty Castle was built by De Clare and was subject to an attack in 1638. It was given up in 1643 and subsequently taken and retaken during the confederate wars.

    Read the passage

    Bunratty castle, by De Clare, 57 ; mentioned, 59 ; attack on, 1638, 78; given up in 1643, 155; taken and retaken, 157 ; account of, 157.

    Buonaparte, remark on, 423 ; banished in 1814, 432 ; notice of, 4S3.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

54. Callachan chooses Limerick as battlefield against Danes

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 943

    In 943, Callachan, King of Cashel, rallied his chiefs against the Danes. Since no part of Ireland suffered more from Danish raids than Limerick and the Shannon borders, he selected the city of Limerick as his field of battle.

    Read the passage

    Through these times the page of history is red with details of these atrocities. Victories followed each other on the part of the invaders, until they had the surrounding country under a terrorism and subjection, which the natives could not remove. It was not, however, without earnest and constant efforts and exertions on the part of the Irish princes, to suppress their atrocities, that they were able to persevere. At length in 943, Callachan, King of Cashel, taking a lesson out of the book of his illustrious predecessor, Cormac, called his chiefs together, exhorted them against the Danes, and as no part of Ireland suffered more from their plunders, murders, &c. than Limerick, and the borders of the Shannon, Callachan selected the city of. Limerick as the field of battle.^ In the second page of the Wars of Calla-

    ' Lough Corrib, county Galway, is now the name of the place thus indicated. It appears from O'Flaherty's Ogygia (pp. 178-9) that A.M. 2834, this Lake was called after Orbserius, the son of Allodius, who had transacted great commercial affairs between Ireland and Britain. These are the words of the Ogj'gia : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are moving through ground chosen for a reckoning. The page of history through these times is red with details of atrocities. Victories followed each other on the part of the invaders, until they had the surrounding country under a terrorism and subjection which the natives could not remove. It was not without earnest and constant efforts on the part of the Irish princes to suppress their atrocities that the Danes were able to persevere. At length, in 943, Callachan, King of Cashel, taking a lesson from the book of his illustrious predecessor, Cormac, called his chiefs together and exhorted them against the Danes. No part of Ireland suffered more from their plunders and murders than Limerick and the borders of the Shannon. For that reason, Callachan selected the city of Limerick as his field of battle.

55. Cathedral bell purchased from Dublin bell founders

    Thomas Street · street · Dublin · 1883

    A bell weighing 27 cwt. 3 qrs. 14 lbs., D natural in tone, was purchased by the Lord Bishop from Messrs. Murphy of Thomas Street, Dublin, bell founders. It was exhibited at the Cork Exhibition of 1883, received the highest award of merit, and its first notes were heard at midnight Christmas 1883.

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    A splendid bell, weighing 27 cwt. 3qrs. 1-1 lbs., D natural in tone, was purchased by the Lord Bishop from the eminent firm of Irish bell founders, Messrs. Murphy, of Thomas Street, Dublin. This bell was on view at the Cork Exhibition of 1883, where it received the highest award of merit. It is beautiful in tone, soft, clear and sonorous. Its first notes were heard at midnight, Christmas 1883. May it long continue to " call men to prayer."

    We cannot close this notice without testifying to the zeal of the present courteous administrator, the Rev. James M-'Coy. The advanced state of the decorations and other important works in connection with the Cathedral are mainly due to his zeal and devotion towards the noble work in hand.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 466

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on Thomas Street, the firm of Murphy were bell founders. In 1883 the Lord Bishop bought a splendid bell from them, weighing 27 cwt. 3 qrs. 14 lbs., D natural in tone. The bell went on view at the Cork Exhibition that year and received the highest award of merit. The book calls it "beautiful in tone, soft, clear and sonorous." Its first notes were heard at midnight, Christmas 1883. The writer hopes it may long continue to "call men to prayer." He also credits the courteous administrator, the Reverend James McCoy, whose zeal drove the decorations and other works at the Cathedral.

56. Catholic monuments in Limerick cathedral destroyed after siege

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1651–1655

    Following Ireton's siege, the monuments in the cathedral of Limerick were nearly all shattered, defaced, or utterly destroyed. By order of 15 June 1655, all Irish papists and traders were ordered to remove from the city, and no Catholic monuments were subsequently erected.

    Read the passage

    These events were followed by the almost total prostration of the Catholics of Limerick. The monuments in the cathedral were nearly all shattered, defaced, or utterly destroyed. By order of the commissioners for the affairs of Ireland, dated 15th June, 1655, all Irish papists and traders, servants, shopkeepers, artificers, etc., were ordered to remove forthwith out of the city,' against which order they presented a petition, as we have seen, through the'hands of Dr. Thomas Arthur, whose estate was saved to him and his son. From this period, there were no Catholic monuments erected in the cathedral, and ibr a short time only, during the reign of James II., was it in possession of the Catholics. In order, therefore, that we may bring to a conclusion our history of the cathedral, _ we will here give an account of the principal monuments which remain in it, and subjoin a hst of the Protestant bishops in succession. The altar on which for ages the unspotted Sacrifice had been offered, had now given way to the communion table.

    AVe proceed with the monuments: —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 341

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are passing through a city whose cathedral monuments were nearly all shattered, defaced, or utterly destroyed in the years after Ireton's siege. By an order of the commissioners for the affairs of Ireland, dated 15 June 1655, all Irish papists and traders, servants, shopkeepers, artificers, and others were ordered to remove forthwith out of the city. They presented a petition against that order through the hands of Dr. Thomas Arthur, whose estate was saved to him and his son. From that period on, no Catholic monuments were erected in the cathedral. For a short time only, during the reign of James II, was it back in the possession of the Catholics. The altar on which for ages the unspotted Sacrifice had been offered had now given way to the communion table.

57. Catholic resurgence in Limerick after penal laws

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1778–1782

    The opening of multiple Catholic chapels in Limerick between 1778 and 1782 showed that Catholics were finally assuming their place after unheard-of sufferings and cruelties following the violation of the Treaty of 1691, and that toleration had begun to prevail.

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    lent chapel in Creagh-lane — two years before — which they opened on the 6th of December, 1778. St. MichaePs Parochial Chapel was opened in Denmarkstreet, on the 29th of September, 1781; and the Franciscans opened their new chapel in Newgate-lane, on Christmas day, 1782. These events show that the Catholics were at length assuming their place after nnheard-of sufferings, cruelties, and horrors, which came in rapid succession after the violation of the Treaty of 1691, and that a spirit of toleration had begun to prevail very generally.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 209

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, consider what changed in just a few years. Catholics opened a chapel in Creagh-lane on the 6th of December, 1778. St. Michael's Parochial Chapel opened in Denmark-street on the 29th of September, 1781. The Franciscans opened their new chapel in Newgate-lane on Christmas day, 1782. These events show that Catholics were at length assuming their place after unheard-of sufferings, cruelties, and horrors following the violation of the Treaty of 1691, and that a spirit of toleration had begun to prevail.

58. Church of SS. Peter and Paul at Kilmallock

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick

    The older of two ecclesiastical ruins within the town walls, consisting of a choir, nave, south transept, and a circular belfry or round tower. The nave is subdivided by pointed arches, and the transept and nave contain sculptured monuments to the Fitzgerald, Verdon, Blakeney, and Haly families.

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    The church of SS. Peter and Paul, which is within the town walls, is the older of the two ecclesiastical ruins. It consists of a choir, nave, south transept, and circular belfry, or rather a round tower. The choir is used as the parish church. The nave is subdivided by a range of four pointed arches, which spring from square columns of plain mason work. The transept and tlie nave contain several sculptured monuments to members of the Fitzgerald, Verdon, Blakeney, and Haly families. The circular belfry, or round tower, has been perforated by several pointed windows.

    The Dominican Abbey, situated on the Commogue outside the town, is said to have been founded in 1291 by Gilbert, second son of John of Callan, Lord Oifaly. The architecture of the Avhole structure is described by the late Sir Richard Hoare, " as surpassing in decoration and good sculpture any he had seen in Ireland". The form of the pile is cruciform, with a tall steeple rising from the intersection of nave and transept. The east window is very elegant. In the centre of the choir is a fragment of the tomb of the White Knight, which was broken by some treasure seekers from Limerick, soldiers we have heard, then stationed in that garrison. We have already referred to the ecclesiastical antiquities of this ancient manor of the Bishops of Limerick.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 432

59. Congregated Trades address the Mayor at Cruise's Hotel

    near George's Street · street · Waterford · 1837

    On 26 June 1837, the Masters and Wardens of the Congregated Trades of Limerick, in full dress with standards and insignia, waited on the Mayor at Cruise's Hotel, George's Street, with a complimentary address seeking his re-election.

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    June 2Gth The Masters and Wardens, and the great body of the Congregated Trades of

    Limerick, in full dress, bearing the standards and insignia of each craft, waited upon the Mayor, at Cruise's Hotel, George's-street, with a complimentary address, in which they manifested the most anxious desire for his re-election to office.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 278

60. Connaught forces destroy wooden bridge at Killaloe

    Killaloe · town · Clare · 1170

    Towards the close of 1170, a Connaught fleet and army descended the Shannon, invading Thomond and plundering Ormond, and destroying the wooden bridge at Killaloe.

    Read the passage

    It is mortifying to have to record of a scion of the illustrious house ot Brian —whose descendants, as we have stated in an earher chapter, still occupy territories which have been m the possession of this ancient race tor full 1600 years— that Donald O^Brien of Thomond, and his vahant Dalcassians iomed the enemies of theh comitry agahistthe Irish monarch, Eoderick O^Comior— though we shall find the O'Briens and Dalcassians fightuig against and defeating the Enghsh shortly after. Towards the close of the Year 1170, a Connaught fleet, foUowed by a Connaught army, descended the Shannon, invaded Thomond, plundered Ormond, and destroyed the wooden bridge at KiUaloe. The next year was rendered remarkable tor the deatH ot Dermod Macmorrogh.i

    On the death of MacMorrogh, "Diarmaid na Gall," "Dermot of the Forein-ners " as the Irish historians caU him. Earl Strongbow got hmiselt proclcSmed King of Leinster, to which he had no right whatever according to the Iri^h laws In the meantime, while the northern dynasts were employed in quarrelling amongst themselves, the territories of the degenerate king ot Thomond were harassed by continual expeditions from Connaught. int^e meantime, Henry had determined upon papng a visit to Ireland, and in the month of October, 1172, he landed safely at Waterford, where he estabhshed

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 26