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. St. Mary's Chapel built on Little Island

   near Little Island · townland · Cork · 1748–1749

   Citizens liberally subscribed for a parish chapel on a plot of ground in the Little Island, taken from Alderman Ingram on 20 March 1748 at £10 yearly rent. The shell was finished in early December 1749, and first Masses were said on 10 December by Dean Creagh, Rev. M. M'Mahon, and Rev. James White.

   Read the passage

   Dr. Lacy, while enjoying the bishopric of Limerick, was appointed administrator of the diocese of Plilfenora, by Dr. Daly, bishop of that see, who remained at Tournay in France. He conferred holy orders, and subsequently, on the 23rd December, 1738, priesthood, on the Rev. James White, compiler of White's MSS. He supplied his diocese with clergy by sending young students to foreign countries to study, where they received sacred orders, and then came home to the mission, which they generally discharged with distinguished fidelity. During his episcopacy the gentry of the country ruled with an iron rod, irrespective of law or order. On one occasion, Thomas O'Dell, Esq., the principal man in the parish of Ballingarry, caused the Rev. Christopher Bermingham to fly to France because he was obnoxious to him, for no other reason than that he, O'Dell, preferred the parish should be given to another clergyman.^ Owing to the terrible famine which prevailed in 1744, Dr. O'Keelfe, and the other bishops of L'eland, granted a relaxation to the people of the Lenten fast. He saw religion, however, revive in some respects. He made a surrender of the old parish chapel outside Thomond Gate, which was tumbling to decay, and when a little more freedom was granted, the clergy were enabled to take a small waste malt house in the Little Island, of which they made a parish chapel, rmtil they were tolerated to build a better, which was the case in 1749, when the

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 357

   As the companion tells it

   Close to Little Island, St Mary's Chapel was built as a parish chapel for which citizens liberally subscribed. A plot was taken from Alderman Ingram on 20 March 1748 at ten pounds yearly rent. The shell was finished in early December 1749, and first Masses were said on 10 December by Dean Creagh, Rev. M. M'Mahon, and Rev. James White. Before this, the clergy used a small waste malt house in the Little Island as a parish chapel, until they were tolerated to build a better one. During Dr. Lacy's episcopacy, the gentry ruled with an iron rod irrespective of law or order, and on one occasion Thomas O'Dell caused the Rev. Christopher Bermingham to flee to France because O'Dell preferred another clergyman for the parish of Ballingarry. A terrible famine in 1744 led Dr. O'Keefe and the other bishops of Ireland to grant a relaxation of the Lenten fast, though religion revived in some respects. Dr. Lacy surrendered the old parish chapel outside Thomond Gate, which was tumbling to decay, and when more freedom was granted, the clergy took the small waste malt house until the 1749 chapel could be built.

2. St. Munchin's Church, first post-Revolution Catholic church in Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1744

   St. Munchin's was an old plain cruciform structure originally built in 1744, subsequently rebuilt and repaired with a sanctuary and altar to the Blessed Virgin. It was remarkable as the first Catholic church publicly erected in Limerick after the Revolution.

   Read the passage

   Curragowcr.* It is an old plain cruciform structure, originally built in 1744, afterwards rebuilt, and lately repaired, and supplied with a small sanctuary and altar to tlie Blessed Virgin. The seats in the gallery have also been renovated. St. Munchin's is remarkable as being the first Cathoho Church publicly erected in Limerick after the Revolution.

   St. Mary's CathoHc Church, a large plain cruciform edifice, was built, in 1749, on the Little Island. The altar exhibits three styles of architecture, finely combined, and has a fine copy of Michael Angelo's picture of the Crucifixion, presented by John Kelly, Esq., merchant, at whose expense was also built the altar, which was composed of several different kinds of architectine, and erected m 1760. The church has lately undergone various improvements, with a new tabernacle, and grounds enclosed by a fine iron balustrade.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 388

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, St. Munchin's Church stands in the city. It is an old plain cruciform structure, originally built in 1744. It was afterwards rebuilt and lately repaired, and supplied with a small sanctuary and altar to the Blessed Virgin. The seats in the gallery have also been renovated. St. Munchin's is remarkable as being the first Catholic church publicly erected in Limerick after the Revolution.

3. St Patrick converts dynast Oldid in Coonagh

   Coonagh · barony · Limerick · 434

   St Patrick travelled to Arva-cliach in the adjacent counties of Tipperary and Limerick, where in Hy-Cuanach (now the Barony of Coonagh) he was initially opposed by the local dynast Oldid. After a miracle, Oldid and his family were converted and baptised.

   Read the passage

   churches in the district, and left some of his teachers at one of them, viz. Kilfeacte. Thence he went to the territory called Arva-cliach, in the adjacent counties of IMpperary and Limerick, in part of which, Hy-Cuanach (now the Barony of Coonagh) he was at first instantly opposed by the dynast Oldid. But a miracle having been performed by the Saint, Oldid and his family were converted and baptised ; while at Ara-chihach, Colgan states that Patrick foretold many occurrences, among others the foundation of a monastery at Kill-ratha, and of a chui'ch at Kill-teidhill, in the county of Limerick. We find the Saint next in the tract of country east of Limerick, w^here he was hospitably entertained by a chieftain named Locan, and met with young N essan, whom at the same time he placed over the monastery of Mungret, which he had founded. The inhabitants of Thomond, hearing of the advent of St. Patrick, crossed the Shannon, for the purpose of seeing him, and when they were instructed, were baptised by him in the field of Tir Glas (Terry Glass, in Ormond) . He was waited on by prince Carthen, son of Blod, who is said to have been converted and baptised at Sanigeal, now Singland, near Limerick. Colgan remarks that this family was the same as that of the O'Briens of Thomond, and that Carthen was the chieftain of North Munster.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 9

4. St. Vincent de Paul seeks to curb public houses in Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1865

   A deputation from all the conferences of St. Vincent de Paul waited upon the chairman of the county and city to secure his assistance in checking the multiplication of public houses throughout Limerick city.

   Read the passage

   October 23.— A deputation from all the conferences of St. Vincent de Paul waited upon the Right Worshipful Robert Tighe, Esq., chairman of the county and city, to secure his assistance in checking the multiplication of public houses throughout the city.

   October 31st.— Smith O'Brien addressed a letter to the Rev. Dr. O'Connor on the grievances of the Limerick fishermen.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 294

   As the companion tells it

   Coming through Limerick. In October 1865, a deputation from all the conferences of St. Vincent de Paul waited upon Robert Tighe, chairman of the county and city, to secure his assistance in checking the multiplication of public houses throughout the city. Later that month, on the 31st, Smith O'Brien wrote to the Reverend Dr. O'Connor about the grievances of the Limerick fishermen.

5. Subterranean streams at Mungret Church and Castle

   Mungret · town · Limerick

   When the Loughmore flat ground is extensively flooded, water breaks up through subterranean passages near Mungret Church and two other places. These three streams unite in one small river near the Castle of Mungret, within one mile of the Shannon.

   Read the passage

   * At Loughmore, where these reviews took place, and which is situated in the South liberties, and Parish of Mungret, is a natural curiosity, not noticed, or even mentioned, by any historian or tourist as far as I can learn : — It is situated within three miles of Limerick, and not far from the once famous Abbey of Mungret. It is a lake for several months in each year — in frosty •weather a favorite resort for skating — covering about 50 acres of atiat piece of ground adjoining the Church lands of the see of Limerick, and forms a commonage for the tenantry, for in summer it throws up a great quantity of grass The water usually begins to rise about the 1st of October, but earlier in a wet season ; in a dry season it begins to decrease about the 25th of March, but in a wet season not till the 1st of May; it is not supplied by any river, but by the rains, and the overflowings of the red bog of Anaherrosta, distant about two miles and brought by subterranean passages. When the flat ground is extensively flooded, the water begins to break up through subterranean passages near Mungret Church, and in two other places. These three streams unite in one small river near the Castle of Mungret within one mile of the river Shannon. As soon as the lough becomes dry, these rivers and passages become dry also. It is usually without water between four and five months each j-ear, but much depends on the season. The general depth of the water is from four to five feet. There are no fish of any kind found in it, except in very wet seasons a few eels. A Mr. Launcelot Hill, about fifty years ago. expended large sums of money in endeavouring to make a course for the waters, but failed. This lake much resemblas in quality that of Lindnig in Germany.

   > Maxwell'* Irit^h Rebellioiu

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 222

6. Theatre Royal built in Henry Street by Joseph Fogerty

   Henry Street · street · Limerick · 1841

   In June 1841, Joseph Fogerty built the Theatre Royal on Henry Street on ground leased from the Earl of Limerick, after dismantling a circus he had built in Queen Street. The theatre measured 110 by 66 feet, seated 1,300, and cost £1,300.

   Read the passage

   In June, 1841, Mr. Joseph Fogerty, an enterprising citizen, after having taken down a circus which he had built in Queen Street, built a theatre — the present Theatre Royal — in Henry Street, on a plot of ground which he took from the Earl of Limerick. The theatre is 110 feet long. 66 feet wide, and 80 feet high, and has sitting accommodation for 1,300 persons. With the exception of the Theatre Royal, Dublin, it is considered the best building of the kiod b Ireland, and cost J61300.

   ... £212 10

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 284

   As the companion tells it

   Along here on Henry Street, the Theatre Royal was built by Joseph Fogerty in June 1841. He was described as an enterprising citizen. He had first built a circus in Queen Street, then took it down and built this theatre on a plot of ground taken from the Earl of Limerick. The theatre measured 110 feet long, 66 feet wide, and 80 feet high, with seating for 1,300. It cost £1,300. Apart from the Theatre Royal in Dublin, it was considered the best building of its kind in Ireland.

7. Tholsel of Limerick built, later converted to gaol

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1449

   In 1449, the Tholsel of Limerick was being built; it was afterwards converted into a gaol. The fact is recorded in rhyme in the Davis MSS.

   Read the passage

   1449 This year the Tholsel (which afterwards was converted into a gaol) was building. The fact is told in rhyme in the Davis MSS.

   1450 This year they began to build John's Gate of Limerick, near Tower-ne-Clouny, Thomas Arthur being Mayor.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 401

   As the companion tells it

   Coming through Limerick now. In 1449, the Tholsel of Limerick was being built here. Afterwards it was converted into a gaol. The fact is recorded in rhyme in the Davis MSS.

8. Thomond Bridge — King John's fourteen-arch crossing

   Thomond Bridge · street · Limerick · 1200–1840

   King John's bridge at Limerick was perfectly level, crossing the main arm of the Shannon from the north-east extremity of the English town close by the Castle, built on fourteen arches. Marks of the hurdles on which it was erected were visible until the bridge was taken down in 1838 and replaced by the present structure in 1840.

   Read the passage

   Captivated, as we have seen, with the beauty of Limerick, the King caused a singularly choice castle, " egregium castellum,^'' and bridge to be built. 1 In that age the Annals refer to the erection of two bridges over the Shannon, and one over the Suck, by the monarch Turlough O'Connor. There is no doubt those bridges were not of stone, but of wood, and that the first structures of the kind of stone were erected by, or after the arrival of the Anglo-Normans. 2 King John's bridge was perfectly level, crossing 4he main arm of the Shannon, from the N.E. extremity of the English town, close by the Castle ; it was built on fourteen arches, under each of which some marks of the hurdles, on which it was erected, were visible until the bridge was taken down in the year 1838, and the present structure was built. According to tradition the cost of the building of Thomond bridge was but £30.^ Immediately above the bridge a ledge of rocks crosses the river, over which one can walk with perfect safety at low water.

   The " Egregium CasteUum" continues to our own time to be one of the finest specimens of fortified Norman architecture in Ireland. The north-west tower is said to have been the first portion of the work that was erected. Nenagh Castle is said to have been built at the same time ; it too, is a noble military building in the Norman style. A Constable was immediately appointed to it by the King. The Castle is now used as an Ordnance store,

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 34

9. Thousands of troops billeted on Limerick citizens

   Limerick · city · Limerick

   From the 17th to the 27th of March, large numbers of troops were billeted on the citizens of Limerick: 157 officers, 258 non-commissioned officers, and 3,996 privates.

   Read the passage

   From 17th to 27th of March in this year, the number of troops billeted on the citizens was 157 officers, 258 non-commissioned officers, and 3,996 privates.

   1842 Alderman John Cripps was elected Mayor by the old Corporation on the 29th of June ; James Sexton and Amos Vereker were elected Sherifi-s, but were never sworn into office Th^ MunTc pal Reform Act having at length come into operation in Limerick, the functions of the c5d Corporation ceased, and the New and Reformed Corporation began. T^ie Mayors and Sheriffs under the Old System were elected on the 29th of June, sworn into office on the first Monday after Michaelmas day, and continued in office until that day twelve months.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 413

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, the city carries a memory from March of a year the book does not name. From the 17th to the 27th of that month, troops were billeted on the citizens of the city. The numbers were large: 157 officers, 258 non-commissioned officers, and 3,996 privates. That meant over 4,000 soldiers housed among the people of Limerick for ten days. The citizens had no choice in the matter. The same source records that in 1842, Alderman John Cripps was elected Mayor by the old Corporation on the 29th of June. James Sexton and Amos Vereker were elected Sheriffs but were never sworn into office. The Municipal Reform Act came into operation in Limerick, the old Corporation ceased, and the new reformed Corporation began.

10. Troops desert while marching through Irishtown

    Irishtown · townland · Limerick · 1691

    As the combined forces of Eustace, Talbot, Bedloe, the Prince of Wales, Clanricarde and Colonel Birmingham marched through the Irishtown of Limerick, officers could not prevent some soldiers from running away.

    Read the passage

    Eustace, Talbot, Bedloe, tlie Prince of Wales, Clanricarde and Colonel Birmingham, no"W joined, and made m aU 618 men. It is said by Storey that as they marched through the Irish-town, all their officers could do could not prevent some of them running away. On the 17th, 18th, and 19th, the InniskiUing regiment which had been in Clare, and other regiments mustered beyond the city and prepared to move for Cork, where the shipping lay to receive them. Sarsfield had vigorously and successfully done his part in reference to the preparations for the embarkation. The "wild geese^^ at length made their flight from old Ireland ; and the songs of their country were sung, as they caught the last glimpse of Erin, the land they loved so well, and on whose green fields the bones of so many thousands of then* brothers in arms and companions in sympathy, were now bleaching ! From Limerick a division of 4736 men, under the command of Generals d^Usson and Tesse, sailed in French ships. Wauchop followed in eight ships from Limerick, with 3000 men. Sarsfield, who had previously gone to Cork, remauied there one month, and reached Brest on the 3rd of December. 1691. A dream occupied the minds of these noble men that they would again see the homes of their deepest afl'ections, and rejoice in the restored liberties of their country. Alas ! it was but a dream. Gloomier days were in store for Ireland, and the waU of grief, which was heard from mountain and valley when they went, was expressed by bard and poet in heart-touching verses, some of which have come down to us from those distant days fresh with unfadingbeauty, and warm with the life of genius. Farewell to Patrick Sarsfield was one of them.i

    " This Peter married Elinor, daughter to Terlogh O'Dempsey, Lord Viscount Glanmalier, and had by her Patrick ; he married Anne daughter to Roger Moor, and by her had Patrick, created Lord Lucan by King James II. anno 1688. This Patrick was General to King James's Army, and married Honora daughter to the Earl of Claorickard, who bore him one son named Jacobvs, Franciscus, Edvardus.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 155

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in 1691, a combined force marched through Irishtown in Limerick and began to fall apart. Eustace, Talbot, Bedloe, the Prince of Wales, Clanricarde and Colonel Birmingham had joined together, making in all 618 men. As they marched through here, their officers could not prevent some of the soldiers from running away. After that, the story moves on. On the 17th, 18th, and 19th, the Inniskilling regiment, which had been in Clare, and other regiments mustered beyond the city and prepared to move for Cork, where the shipping lay to receive them. Sarsfield had done his part in preparing for the embarkation. The wild geese at length made their flight from old Ireland. The songs of their country were sung as they caught their last glimpse of Erin, the land they loved so well, and on whose green fields the bones of so many thousands of their brothers in arms and companions in sympathy were now bleaching. From Limerick, a division of 4736 men, under the command of Generals d'Usson and Tesse, sailed in French ships. Wauchop followed in eight ships from Limerick with 3000 men. Sarsfield, who had previously gone to Cork, remained there one month, and reached Brest on the 3rd of December 1691. A dream occupied the minds of these men that they would again see the homes of their deepest affections, and rejoice in the restored liberties of their country. It was but a dream.

11. Twelve English aldermen elected after military governorship

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1651–1660

    After Ireton's siege the mayoralty of Limerick remained vacant for four years under military governance until June 1660, when twelve English aldermen were elected and chose Colonel Henry Ingoldsby as mayor.

    Read the passage

    This was the year of Ireton's siege, leferred to in detail in this work. The mayoralty was racant for four years after that most lamentable event, and governed by the military governor until June, 166C, whtn twelve Englisli aldermen were electfd, who chose, for the remainder of the year, until Monday after Michaelmas, Colonel Henry Ingolsby as Mayor.

    1656 Colonel Henry Ingolshy, John Comyn, Peter Ash.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 407

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick. After Ireton's siege, the mayoralty here stayed vacant for four years, governed by the military governor. In June 1660, twelve English aldermen were elected. They chose Colonel Henry Ingoldsby as mayor, to serve until Monday after Michaelmas.

12. Two St. Mary's churches in medieval Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1201–1207

    Inquisitions from 1201 and earlier confirm that Singland was granted to the church of the Blessed Mary of Lymerick. Dr. Reeves of Armagh identified St. Mary Rotunda as St. Mary Magdalene, indicating two distinct St. Mary's churches existed in Limerick at that early period. Kellmurille, near Limerick, is dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene.

    Read the passage

    St. Mary's Cathedral and St. Mary's Church. — In reference to p. 552, and to Myler Fitz- Henry's Inquisition, we see it is in the inquisition of 1201, in the B copy of the Black Book, taken by Dr. Todd St. Jlar. Rotunda. Cum. per.; and the same in a copy from the original, in the possession of the Hon. Robert O'Brien, that is in the inquisition taken before Myler FitzHeury. In Dr. Todd's copy of the second inquisition, before William de Burgo, it is " Eccliam Sci. Marie Eotunda", in the charter of Lord John FitzJohn King of England, and, thei'efoi-e, antecedent to 1201, Singland is granted to the church of the Blessed Mary of Lymerick, and the canons there serving God. These matters have been pointed out to the very eminent antiquarian and writer, Dr. Reeves, of Armagh, and he considers St. Mary Rotimd«, (not Kotundws as printed at p. 552), to be St. Mary Magdalene, which we find assigned in the Black Book by Bishop Donough O'Brien, ante, 1207, for the sustentation of the canons of the church of St. Mary the Virgin, of Lymeric, thus showing there were two St. Mary's churches at that early period, in the city. Kellmurille, near Limerick, is dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene ; but we have no reason to state that it is not the same church. In the heading of chapter liv. the word "taxation" should be "inquisition".

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes through Limerick, you are in a city that had two churches of St. Mary in the early 1200s. The evidence comes from inquisitions and charters recorded in the Black Book. In the inquisition of 1201, taken before Myler FitzHenry, there is reference to St. Mary Rotunda. A copy of this inquisition was in the possession of the Hon. Robert O'Brien. In Dr. Todd's copy of a second inquisition, taken before William de Burgo, the entry reads Ecclesiam Sancte Marie Rotunda, in the charter of Lord John FitzJohn, King of England, and therefore antecedent to 1201. In that charter, Singland is granted to the church of the Blessed Mary of Lymerick, and the canons there serving God. The matter was put to Dr. Reeves of Armagh, an eminent antiquarian, and he considered St. Mary Rotunda to be St. Mary Magdalene, not Rotundus as printed elsewhere. In the Black Book, Bishop Donough O'Brien, before 1207, assigned it for the sustentation of the canons of the church of St. Mary the Virgin of Lymeric. This shows there were two St. Mary's churches at that early period in the city. Kellmurille, near Limerick, is dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene, but there is no reason to state that it is not the same church.

13. Vereker salutes procession from Club-house balcony

    near George's Street · street · Waterford

    As Tuthill's procession passed through George's-street in Limerick, Major Vereker, the defeated candidate, stepped out on the balcony at the Club-house and respectfully bowed to the crowd.

    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

14. Volunteer corps reviewed at Limerick by Lord Kingsborough

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1780

    On 10 October 1780, surrounded by thousands of admiring countrymen, multiple volunteer corps including the Royal Glin Artillery, County Limerick Horse, and others were reviewed by Lord Kingsborough as Reviewing General. The meeting at the Tholsel was chaired by John Thomas Waller, Esq.

    Read the passage

    1 Previously to 1782, (namely, in 1779), therewere two grand reviews at Lough Gur, when most of the regular army had been withdrawn from the kingdom, and though the Govrnment had hitherto looked with a jealous eye on the Irish Volunteers, their worth and strength were now sent down for the city and the county regiments — viz., five hundred for each. It was on the 17 of August, in 1780, that the first meeting was held at the Tholsel, in reference to a contemplated review of the different corps which had been already formed. On the 17th of the previous December the greatest rejoicings that had been known for many years before took place in the city in consequence of the intimation given in Parliament by Lord North, of offering certain propositions to the House for granting free trade to Ireland. At the meeting, which was held at the Tholsel, the chair was taken by John Thomas Waller, Esq., an unparalleled amount of enthusiasm prevailed. Surrounded by thousands of their admiring countrymen, the following corps were reviewed by Lord Kingsborough, Reviewing General, on the 10th of October following : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 220

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick now. In 1779, with most of the regular army withdrawn from the kingdom, two grand reviews were held at Lough Gur. The government had looked with a jealous eye on the Irish Volunteers, but their worth and strength were now clear. Arms were sent down for the city and county regiments, five hundred for each. On the 17th of August 1780, a meeting was held at the Tholsel in reference to a contemplated review of the different corps already formed. The previous December had seen the greatest rejoicings known in the city for many years, after Lord North gave notice in Parliament of propositions to grant free trade to Ireland. At the Tholsel meeting the chair was taken by John Thomas Waller, Esquire, and an unparalleled enthusiasm prevailed. Then on the 10th of October 1780, surrounded by thousands of their admiring countrymen, the corps were reviewed by Lord Kingsborough, Reviewing General.

15. Waterford deprived of its charter for refusing oath of supremacy

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1617

    Waterford's corporation, like that of Limerick, had resolutely refused to take the oath of supremacy. As a consequence, around 1617, the city was deprived of its charter under the proclamation for the expulsion of Catholic clergy.

    Read the passage

    Jameses reign as we have seen, was rendered remarkable in Ireland, not only by the wholesale plunder of Cathohcs, but by their savage persecution. The question of the kiug^s supremacy created great disturbances among the corporators, and it was not until the accession of Charles the 1st in 1635, that the execution of these unjust and cruel laws were so far relaxed, that the mayor and sheriffs, viz. James Bourke, James Stackpole, and George Burke of Limerick, went publicly to mass : so far back as 1605, Fox the mayor was deposed for refusing to take the oath, and Andrew Creagh was appointed the first Protestant mayor. In 1617, a proclamation was issued for the expulsion of the Catholic clergy, and the city of Waterford, whose corporation had, like that of Limerick, resolutely refused to take the oath of supremacy, was in consi^quence deprived of its charter.

    In the year 1616, the mayor ordered the gate call Mongret, which had been long closed, to be reopened, i Hitherto the Cathohcs "had strenuously resisted the appointment of any but Cathohcs to the magistracy, but at last the Viceroy and council promulgated a decree prohibiting any one from discharging any pubhc office, unless he had first taken the oath of supremacy, and solemnly attended the Anghcan service, and this under the penalty called pnemimire. Hence it happened that they elected those whom they expected to be obedient to the king's wishes, whom they now call " conformists,''-' as they call the Catholics "recusants.-" In 1616, Dominick Roche, mayor, John Stritch and Richard Lawless, sheriffs, both conformists. 1617. John Stritch mayor, George James Creagh and Pierce or Peter Harold,^ sheriffs. The two later had conformed.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 78

16. William arrives at Carrickfergus

    near Carrickfergus · town · Antrim · 1690

    William arrived at Carrickfergus on 14 June 1690 with an enormous additional force, and was congratulated by the Protestant clergy then in Ulster.

    Read the passage

    WiUiam's army now amounted to thirty thousand men ; and iu addition to these, early in March, 1690, four hundred Danes arrived at Belfast, anxious to take part in any warfare agamst those to "nhoui they had ever shown themselves rapacious enemies — the Irish. On the fourteenth of that month, five thousand French Infantry landed at Kinsale, with General Count Lauzun and the Marquis de Lery ; King James having sent back Major- General Macarthy and as many Irish. Indeed it was observed with pain that James was hastening his own ruin, and disgusting his Irish officers by an unjust preference of Frenchmen in the promotions he daily made. On the 4th of June a French Eegiment marched into Limerick to garrison it for King James, against the forces of "William, which at this juncture were hourly expecting the arrival from England of their darling, an event which took place at Carrickfergus on the 14th of the same mouth, when he came with an enormous force, in addition to that which had been previously at his service in Ireland. "William was congratulated by the Protestant clergy of the country, who were then in Ulster. At Belfast he stated that he had come to Ireland not to let the grass grow under his feet, and he made good his words, for the whole army got immediate orders to march into the field. He and Prince George, the Duke of Ormonde, and all the principal officers, went to the camp at Loughbrickland, and instead of allowing the soldiers to pass him in review, he at once went amongst them, examined each regiment critically, and gave such directions as he thought needful under the circumstances— he at once, by this means, won the confidence of the men.

    He carried with him for his own use and the use of Prince George, moving

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 121

17. William reaches Sallywood

    Sallywood · townland · Donegal · 1690

    On the 6th of August, William reached Sallywood, having sent a party of horse towards Limerick the day before.

    Read the passage

    On the 6th he reached Sallywood, having sent a party of horse the day before towards Limerick. In the army of William were several refugee Protestant clergymen, who accompanied him on his march, and among them was Ulysses Burgh, Dean of Emly. On the 8th of August William entered the county of Limerick, marching to Caherconlish, within a short distance of Dromkeen, the ancient patrimony and residence of the Burghs of Dromkeen.3 Burgh visited his house, which he found standing,

    • The epitaph on Strafford's tomb shows what was thought of him : — " Here his wise and valiant dust

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 125

18. Woodsdown, birthplace of Field Marshal Lord Gough

    Woodstown · townland · Limerick

    Woodsdown, near Mount Shannon and divided from Annacotty Mills by the river Mulcair, was the birthplace of Field Marshal Lord Gough. At the time of writing it was occupied by W. G. Gubbins, J.P.

    Read the passage

    mile farther on, and in nearly the same direction, but nearer the Shannon, are situated the picturesque rvxins of Castle Troy, once the seat of the K'Eogh family, of whom Mahony K'Eogh forfeited in the time of Cromwell, for his loyalty to the Stuarts. Dr. John K'Eogh, D.D., author of several learned works, and father of the author of the Botanologia Universalis Hibernica, the Zoonomia Uibernica, etc., was a member of this family. Further on in the same direction, is Moimt Shannon, the beautiful demesne and residence of the late Earl of Clare, remarkable for its fine classical library, on which John, second Earl of Clare, expended a large sum of money. Near Mount Shannon are Rich Hill, the handsome residence of William Howley, Esq., D.L., Woodsdown, where Field Marshal Lord Gough was born, which is now in the occupation of W. G. Gubbins, Esq., J. P., and which is divided from Annacotty Mills, etc., by the river Mulcair. A few miles east of Mount Shannon is Glaenstal Castle, the magnificent residence of Sir William Hartigan Barrington, Bart., and Clonshavoy, the'tasteful residence of Caleb Powell, Esq., ex-M.P. for the county Limerick. In the vicinity of Limerick there are several attractive localities which merit attention, and to which excursions can be made by rail or boat, or by road, at a comparatively small cost, some of which may be noticed in a subsequent portion of this work.

    The picturesque village of Kilkee, romantically situated upon the Clare coast, is the favourite bathing-place of the citizens of Limerick, who generally repair thither in considerable numbers when the season arrives. There are many other places within a few miles distance, which will well repay a visit, from the beauty of their scenery and their antiquarian and historical interest. Such are Carrig-o'-Gunnell, Adare, Castleconnell, Bunratty, Killaloe, Lough Gur, etc. For those, indeed, who are fond of exploring Druidic, military, and ecclesiastical antiquities, tlTfere is no county in Ireland wdiich supplies more ample materials than Limerick, which possesses likewise numerous attractions for the lovers of sporting.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 309

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Woodstown, you are near a place the book calls Woodsdown, where Field Marshal Lord Gough was born. At the time of writing, it was in the occupation of W. G. Gubbins, Esq., J.P., and it is divided from Annacotty Mills by the river Mulcair. The book places Woodsdown near Mount Shannon, the demesne and residence of the late Earl of Clare. Mount Shannon was remarkable for its fine classical library, on which John, second Earl of Clare, expended a large sum of money. Also near Mount Shannon is Rich Hill, the residence of William Howley, Esq., D.L. Before reaching Mount Shannon, the book directs attention to Castle Troy, described as picturesque ruins. It was once the seat of the K'Eogh family, of whom Mahony K'Eogh forfeited in the time of Cromwell for his loyalty to the Stuarts. Dr. John K'Eogh, D.D., author of several learned works, and father of the author of the Botanologia Universalis Hibernica and the Zoonomia Hibernica, was a member of this family. A few miles east of Mount Shannon, the book notes Glaenstal Castle, the residence of Sir William Hartigan Barrington, Bart., and Clonshavoy, the residence of Caleb Powell, Esq., ex-M.P. for the county of Limerick. The passage goes on to say that in the vicinity of Limerick there are several attractive localities which merit attention, and to which excursions can be made by rail or boat or by road at a comparatively small cost. It names Kilkee on the Clare coast as the favourite bathing-place of the citizens of Limerick, and lists Carrig-o'-Gunnell, Adare, Castleconnell, Bunratty, Killaloe, and Lough Gur among places that will repay a visit for the beauty of their scenery and their antiquarian and historical interest. For those fond of exploring Druidic, military, and ecclesiastical antiquities, the book says no county in Ireland supplies more ample materials than Limerick, which possesses likewise numerous attractions for the lovers of sporting.

19. Beacon tower begun on Beeves Rocks near Askeaton

    Askeaton · townland · Limerick · 1816

    In 1816, a tower serving as a beacon began to be erected on the Beeves Rocks near Askeaton to guide vessels at night.

    Read the passage

    In this year, the fire arms of all the Regiments of Infantry were coloured brown. In this year a tower, a beacon, began to be erected on the Beeves Rocks, near Askeaton, to guide vessels at night.

    1810, January. — Early in this month, a very fine organ, built by Evans of London, erected in the Parish Chapel of St. Michael, it cost J^IOOO, and is certainly the finest ever seen in this city ; the Chapel lias been recently very much ornamented, enlarged and beautified by the Rev. Patrick Hogan, P.P.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 249

20. Cave on north side of Knockadoon

    Knockadoon · sub-townland · Limerick

    On the north side of Knockadoon is a cave twenty-two feet deep and about twelve feet broad, hidden by an alder tree, with irregular layers of large protecting limestone rocks rising about twenty feet above it.

    Read the passage

    On the north side of Knockadoon is a cave, twenty-two feet deep, and about twelve feet broad, the mouth hidden by an alder tree, and over the cave are irregular layers of large protecting limestone rocks rising about twenty feet above it. There is a fine echo here, and the view of the lake is really beautiful.

    Garret Fitzgerald, the rebel Earl of Desmond to Queen Elizabeth, is the guardian spirit of this lake. He is held there by enchantment, which will cease when the silver shoes of his horse, whom he is seen riding over the surface of the lake once every seven years, are worn out, and he will thence once more return to life.^ This legend strongly resembles that of I 'on Sebastian, King of Portugal. There are no trout in the lake; it contains pike and roach in abundance.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 426

21. Charles Smyth admitted to Limerick trade guilds for electioneering

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1731

    Parliamentary candidate Charles Smyth was enrolled in the Society of Victuallers and the Cordwayner's Society in Limerick as part of his election campaign. The guilds were described as politically partisan and exerted powerful influence over electoral outcomes.

    Read the passage

    It was a specific duty on the part of the candidate that he should enrol himself in the guilds of trade ; and accordingly we find Mr. Charles Smyth admitted by " the Master, Wardens, and Elders of the Society of Victuallers of Limerick, to all the privileges, franchises, &c. of the Society."^ He was also admitted a member of the Cordwayner's Society, of which Robert Wilson was the Master. It is scarcely necessary to add that these guilds were true blue, real Orange, and that they exercised powerful influence on the fate of

    1 Arthur Roche's Poll Book. « Ibid.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 184

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you're in the city where Charles Smyth sought a parliamentary seat in 1731. A candidate's duty was to enrol himself in the trade guilds. Smyth was admitted by the Master, Wardens, and Elders of the Society of Victuallers of Limerick, to all the privileges and franchises of the Society. He was also admitted a member of the Cordwayner's Society, of which Robert Wilson was the Master. These guilds were true blue and real Orange, and they exercised powerful influence on the fate of elections.

22. Collopy's Ascension painting for Augustinian chapel

    Creagh Lane · street · Limerick · 1782

    Timothy Collopy painted the Ascension for the Augustinian Priory Chapel in Creagh Lane in 1782. The painting later moved to the Augustinian Church in George's Street and was considered worthy of the Italian masters.

    Read the passage

    was that in wliicli the Cathohc bishops of the diocese, chiefly ministered, was cruciform, and was taken down early in ISQ'-Z, some montlis after the new cathedral of St. John had been opened in the same locality. The old chapel had an excellent painting of the Crucifixion, by Mr. Timothy Collopy, a native artist of distinguished merit, who also painted the Ascension for the Augustinian Priary Chapel, in Creagh-lane.*

    In 1755, on the 5th of June, the Marquis of Harrington, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, arrived in Limerick, where he was received by the authorities with the accustomed pomp and ceremony, and where he reviewed the troops on the King's Island on the 6th, and on the 8th attended Church service at St. Mary's Qathedral, where Dr. Arthur Smyth, Protestant Primate of Ireland, preached. He was the guest of the Protestant Bishop during his visit.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 194

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on Creagh Lane, the Augustinian Priory Chapel once held a painting of the Ascension by Timothy Collopy. He was a native artist of distinguished merit, and he painted the work in 1782. Collopy also painted a Crucifixion for the old chapel nearby. The Ascension later moved to the Augustinian Church on George's Street, and was said to be worthy of the Italian masters.

23. Commercial Buildings erected as Town Hall, Rutland Street

    Rutland Street · street · Limerick · 1805–1843

    The Commercial Buildings in Rutland Street were erected in 1805 by the Mercantile Body and contained one of the most spacious coffee rooms in Ireland. After declining and reverting to the landlord, the Reformed Corporation in 1843 determined to occupy it as a Town Hall, saving it from abandonment.

    Read the passage

    The Commercial Buildings, now the Town Hall, Rutland-street, was thus erected at the expense of the Mercantile Body, in 1805. It contained one of the most spacious and elegant coffee rooms in Ireland, and a number of fine apartments appropriated to the business of the Chamber of Commerce. On the 1st of October, 1805, articles of agreement were entered into between the members of the Commercial Buildings Company ; and on the 2nd of June, 1815, they were incorporated by Royal Charter, under the name of " The Chamber of Commerce of Limerick;" at which time they also agreed to be governed by bye laws ; John M'Namara was the first President; Thomas Westropp, Vice-President; Martin Creagh, Joseph Fisher, William Hill, William White, Alan Francis O'Neill, and Thomas Kelly, Esqrs., Directors.

    * The Chamber of Commerce continued to be located for many years in the Commercial Buildings, until in 1833, the mansion house of the late M. Gavin, Esq., in George-street, was purchased for a considerable sum bj' that body, and the Commercial Buildings declined so much in subsequent years that it was alternately rented into subdivisions. The Limerick Evening Post and Clare Sentinel and afterwards the Star were published in a portion of it ; the great room which had been a coffee room was used as a sugar store ; the ofiices in the rere and beneath were neglected ; the shares became valueless. The noble edifice went back to the landlord, Thomas Kelly, Esq., Shannon View ; and it was not till the Reformed Corporation in 1843, determined to occupy it as a Town Hall that it was saved from abandonment. It is now an excellent Town Hall, with Council Chamber, Mayor's, Town Clerk's Treasurer's, &c., offices ; apartments for the serjeants-at-mace in charge ; a watch house and lock-up underneath. A news room, which for size is one of the best adapted for the purpose in Ireland, occupies a large portion of the ground floor.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 237

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on Rutland Street in Limerick stand the Commercial Buildings, erected in 1805 at the expense of the Mercantile Body. It contained one of the most spacious and elegant coffee rooms in Ireland, and a number of fine apartments devoted to the business of the Chamber of Commerce. On the 1st of October, 1805, articles of agreement were entered into between the members of the Commercial Buildings Company. On the 2nd of June, 1815, they were incorporated by Royal Charter, under the name of the Chamber of Commerce of Limerick. John M'Namara was the first President. Thomas Westropp was Vice-President. Martin Creagh, Joseph Fisher, William Hill, William White, Alan Francis O'Neill, and Thomas Kelly were Directors. The Chamber of Commerce continued to be located there for many years, until in 1833 the mansion house of the late M. Gavin in George Street was purchased for a considerable sum by that body. The Commercial Buildings then declined so much that it was alternately rented into subdivisions. The Limerick Evening Post and Clare Sentinel, and afterwards the Star, were published in a portion of it. The great room which had been a coffee room was used as a sugar store. The offices in the rear and beneath were neglected. The shares became valueless. The noble edifice went back to the landlord, Thomas Kelly of Shannon View. It was not until the Reformed Corporation in 1843 determined to occupy it as a Town Hall that it was saved from abandonment. It became an excellent Town Hall, with a Council Chamber, the Mayor's, Town Clerk's, and Treasurer's offices, apartments for the serjeants-at-mace in charge, and a watch house and lock-up underneath. A news room occupies a large portion of the ground floor.

24. Earl of Fingall places commemorative phial in St. Alphonsus foundation stone

    South Circular Road · street · Limerick · 1858

    At the conclusion of the foundation stone ceremony for St. Alphonsus Church, the Earl of Fingall placed a phial in the stone containing a medal commemorating the National Synod of Thurles and coins of England, France, and Rome. The phial was sealed with the episcopal seal of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    St. Alplionsus ; bands of music ; Christian Brothers, two and two ; boys in the picturesque habits of the Dominican order; the Dominican Fathers in their white habits; the Redemptorist Fathers; the Franciscan and Augustinian Fathers ; the secular clergy. The venerable Bishop followed in magnificent cloth-of-gold pontifical robes, with mitre and crozier, accompanied by the Very Rev. Dean Butler and the General of the Redemptorist Order for the provinces of Holland and England. The Earl and Countess of Fingall, father and mother of the Hon. and Rev. William Matthew Plunkett, one of the Redemptorist Fathers of Mount St. Alphonsus ; Lord Killeen, Lady Killeen, Hon. Lady H. Ridell, Mr. Ridell, the Ladies Plunkett, Mr. Corbally, M.P., Major Cruise, etc., were among the distinguished laity present. The ceremonial having been gone through, the Earl of Fingall placed a phial in the stone, containing a medal commemorative of the National Synod of Thurles, and pieces of the current English, French, and Roman coins. The phial was sealed with the episcopal seal of Limerick, and the following inscription on vellum was placed in it also : —

    Pio IX. Pontifice Maximo

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 299

25. Limerick officials publicly attend mass after relaxation of penal laws

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1635

    In 1635, under Charles I, the penal laws were relaxed enough that Mayor James Bourke and Sheriffs James Stackpole and George Burke of Limerick went publicly to mass, marking a brief respite from religious persecution.

    Read the passage

    Jameses reign as we have seen, was rendered remarkable in Ireland, not only by the wholesale plunder of Cathohcs, but by their savage persecution. The question of the kiug^s supremacy created great disturbances among the corporators, and it was not until the accession of Charles the 1st in 1635, that the execution of these unjust and cruel laws were so far relaxed, that the mayor and sheriffs, viz. James Bourke, James Stackpole, and George Burke of Limerick, went publicly to mass : so far back as 1605, Fox the mayor was deposed for refusing to take the oath, and Andrew Creagh was appointed the first Protestant mayor. In 1617, a proclamation was issued for the expulsion of the Catholic clergy, and the city of Waterford, whose corporation had, like that of Limerick, resolutely refused to take the oath of supremacy, was in consi^quence deprived of its charter.

    In the year 1616, the mayor ordered the gate call Mongret, which had been long closed, to be reopened, i Hitherto the Cathohcs "had strenuously resisted the appointment of any but Cathohcs to the magistracy, but at last the Viceroy and council promulgated a decree prohibiting any one from discharging any pubhc office, unless he had first taken the oath of supremacy, and solemnly attended the Anghcan service, and this under the penalty called pnemimire. Hence it happened that they elected those whom they expected to be obedient to the king's wishes, whom they now call " conformists,''-' as they call the Catholics "recusants.-" In 1616, Dominick Roche, mayor, John Stritch and Richard Lawless, sheriffs, both conformists. 1617. John Stritch mayor, George James Creagh and Pierce or Peter Harold,^ sheriffs. The two later had conformed.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries a story from 1635. Under James, Ireland saw the wholesale plunder of Catholics and their savage persecution. The king's supremacy created great disturbances among the corporators. It was not until the accession of Charles the First in 1635 that the execution of these unjust and cruel laws was so far relaxed that the mayor and sheriffs went publicly to mass. The mayor was James Bourke, and the sheriffs were James Stackpole and George Burke, all of Limerick. Their open attendance at mass marked a brief respite from years of religious oppression. The struggle had been long. As far back as 1605, Fox the mayor was deposed for refusing to take the oath, and Andrew Creagh was appointed the first Protestant mayor. In 1617, a proclamation was issued for the expulsion of the Catholic clergy. Waterford, whose corporation had resolutely refused to take the oath of supremacy, was deprived of its charter. The Catholics had strenuously resisted the appointment of any but Catholics to the magistracy, but the Viceroy and council promulgated a decree prohibiting anyone from discharging any public office unless he had first taken the oath of supremacy and solemnly attended the Anglican service, under the penalty called praemunire. They elected those they expected to be obedient to the king's wishes, whom they called conformists, as they called the Catholics recusants.

26. Lord Lieutenant visits Russell's factory and opens Floating Docks

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1853

    On September 25th, 1853, the Lord Lieutenant and Countess of St. Germans visited Messrs. Russell's factory on the North Strand in Limerick. The Floating Docks, described as the finest work of the kind in Ireland, were opened by the Earl of St. Germans at a great banquet in the theatre.

    Read the passage

    September 2dth. — The Lord Lieutenant and the Countess of St. Germans visited Messrs. Russels's factory on the North Strand. The great Munster fair was estabUshed, to which an extra fair was added in 18G5. The Floating Docks, the finest work of the kind in Ireland, were opened by the Earl of St. Germans, who was entertained on this occasion at a great banquet in the theatre. On the previous day his Excellency turned the first sod of the Foynes Railway, on the estate of Lord JMonteagle, at Foynes.

    War proclaimed against Russia. The Irish Militia embodied.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 292

    As the companion tells it

    The road passes through Limerick, where in September 1853 the Lord Lieutenant and the Countess of St. Germans visited Messrs. Russell's factory on the North Strand. The Floating Docks, the finest work of the kind in Ireland, were opened by the Earl of St. Germans, who was entertained at a great banquet in the theatre. The day before, his Excellency had turned the first sod of the Foynes Railway, on the estate of Lord Monteagle at Foynes. War was proclaimed against Russia, and the Irish Militia was embodied.

27. Lying-in Hospital opened in Nelson Street

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1812

    Through the liberality of Miss White and Mrs. Banks, each contributing £1000, a Lying-in Hospital was opened for patients in Nelson Street, Limerick, in 1812. It was later removed to Henry Street where it continued to serve the city.

    Read the passage

    In this year, through the liberality of Miss White a Catholic lady, who gave largely for the endowment of many charitable institutions in her native city, and of Mrs. Banks a Protestant lady, each having contributed £1000, a Lying-in Hospital was opened for the reception of patients in Nelson-street. In some years afterwards this Hospital was removed to Henry-street, where it has continued to be of great advantage to all who stand in need of its services.

    The efforts of the citizens at this period to free themselves from the incubus of the Corporation were extraordinary. A contested election took place this year ; the election lasted five days, and ended on the 21st of August. The independent interest was supported by young Lord Glentworth, whilst Charles Vereker, Esq. championed the cause of the Corporation. The Sheriffs declared Mr. Vereker elected; but one of the most magnificent ovations ever remembered was given to Lord Glentworth by the citizens — he was chaired through the city with a magnificence hitherto unknown. At least fifty thousand persons preceded and followed the chair in which the young

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 246

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city held a hospital born from two women's generosity. In 1812, a Lying-in Hospital opened in Nelson Street for the reception of patients. Miss White, a Catholic lady, gave largely for the endowment of many charitable institutions in her native city. Mrs. Banks, a Protestant lady, matched her. Each contributed 1000 pounds. In some years afterwards the hospital was removed to Henry Street, where it continued to be of great advantage to all who stood in need of its services. That same year, the citizens made extraordinary efforts to free themselves from the Corporation. A contested election lasted five days and ended on the 21st of August. Young Lord Glentworth supported the independent interest. Charles Vereker championed the cause of the Corporation. The Sheriffs declared Vereker elected. But one of the most magnificent ovations ever remembered was given to Lord Glentworth. He was chaired through the city with a magnificence hitherto unknown. At least 50,000 persons preceded and followed the chair.

28. O'Connor Sligo slain after threatening Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    A rebel known as Slico (O'Connor Sligo) greatly offended the citizens of Limerick and threatened to burn the city. The commander's men were sent and slew him, removing the threat to the city.

    Read the passage

    He served at his own cost at the taking of Knockgraffon, Dungarvan, Carrigogunnel, the first and second time ; Ballinconnell Castle in Thomond and Clare, and Clononkenie, in the countic of Lymrick. He toke Donnell O'Bryen's galley, which did much prejudice the King's subjects in the river of Shenan. He sent his men, who slew the rebell called Slico (O'Connor Sligo), which did offend the cittizens much, and threatened to burn Lymerick. He caused Edmond Bourke and his sonne to pay £16 to such of the cittizens as they have robbed thereof. He caused William Fitzjames Geraldine to bestow the prey which he toke from some of the cittizens. His men brought home the cattle which were taken away the night before by some of the rebells. He apprehended one Macloghlen Baukaks sonn, and another rebell, whome he caused to pay £24 for their ransome, which he gave to such of the cittizens as the said Macloghlen's sonn formerly caused to pay him ransome of £10. He with a small companie burned the toune and castle in the Island called Ellanrogane, and faught with many of the rebells there, of whom they killed many, and burnt others, and brought his men with their goods home salfe. He toke a galley and a half galley from Mourough O'Bryan, which he carried by land a myle and a half, and then lanced them to the water, and brought them to Lymricke. He issued at midnight out of Lj'mricke towards the Bishop of Killalowe and his two sonnes, but they narrowly escaped him, quitting their horses and baggage, whereon thej' seized. He burned Kilcordane and Clonemoniayne, in O'Bryen's countric. lie allured James of Desmond to come into the Lord Deputie's camp and laye in his tent and wayte on him to Limerick, and in his progress through Thomond within two miles of Galway, where they tooke leave and came to Lyrarick, and the Lord Deputie .went to Galway. He payed £40 in part payment of 1000 Duckatts, which he proipised to Donough O'Bryan for betraying and delivering up into his hands the rebell Thomas Fitzgerald, leing tlicn with O'Brien in Thomond, as he undertook to doe, but fayled in performancethert'of."

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 52

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Limerick, there is a story from the city's old record. A commander served at his own cost at the taking of Knockgraffon, Dungarvan, Carrigogunnel, Ballinconnell Castle in Thomond and Clare, and Clononkenie in County Limerick. He took Donnell O'Bryen's galley, which did much prejudice to the King's subjects in the river of Shenan. He sent his men, and they slew the rebel called Slico, O'Connor Sligo, who had greatly offended the citizens of Limerick and threatened to burn the city. He caused Edmond Bourke and his son to pay sixteen pounds to such citizens as they had robbed. He caused William Fitzjames Geraldine to restore prey he had taken from some of the citizens. His men brought home cattle taken the night before by rebels. He apprehended one Macloghlen's son and another rebel, who paid twenty-four pounds ransom, which he gave to citizens that same son had previously forced to pay him ten pounds. With a small company he burned the town and castle on the island called Ellanrogane, fought many rebels there, killed and burned others, and brought his men home safe with their goods. He took a galley and a half galley from Mourough O'Bryan, carried them by land a mile and a half, launched them back to water, and brought them to Limerick. He issued at midnight from Limerick against the Bishop of Killaloe and his two sons, who narrowly escaped, quitting their horses and baggage. He burned Kilcordane and Clonemoniayne in O'Bryen's country. He drew James of Desmond into the Lord Deputy's camp, who waited on him to Limerick, and in his progress through Thomond within two miles of Galway, where they took leave. He paid forty pounds in part payment of a thousand ducats he had promised Donough O'Bryan for betraying and delivering up the rebel Thomas Fitzgerald, then lying with O'Brien in Thomond, but O'Brien failed to perform it.

29. Piscina at Mungret used as folk remedy for headache

    Mungret · town · Limerick

    Inside the great eastern window of Mungret stood a fine specimen of a piscina, the bottom resembling the impress of a human face, which was lately destroyed or removed by a visitor. People for miles around were in the habit of applying their faces to this stone as a supposed remedy for headache.

    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

30. Play house design scheme for Cork

    Cork · city · Cork · 1732

    Sir Edward Lovet Pearce wrote from Dublin on February 2nd, 1732, to Charles Smyth, Esq., M.P., then in Cork, offering to furnish a plan for a play house if Smyth would send ground details and budget. Pearce was engaged in a Dublin theatre project with gentlemen of fortune.

    Read the passage

    I hear from others, and from your Brother, Sr. Thos., that you are at Cork, on a design of building a play house. As our schemes of that sort^ for this citty are just ripe, and many gentlemen of fortune are concerned with me in a project, which will in all probality take effect, I have been at a good deal of paines to enform rayself of the necessary conveniencys, and to make such a designe as may best answer our intentions. At least we are a great number who are satisfied with it, or I would not venture to recommend it to you, who probably (as we do) propose some advantage to yr. self. The meaning of all this is to tell you, that if you realy are upon such a design, and send me a plan of ye ground, with the streets that lead to it, and mention the money you expect to lay out, I will as soon possible return you a' plan fitted for yr. purpose, with our scheme at large by which we raise the money and secure ourselves. I am not a judge whether ye affairs will permitt you to stay so long from yr. town of Limerick, but / hope they will, because I think it would be for yr. advantage. I know Lt.-Genel. Pearce has writt to you lately, concerning the affair of the Gates and Walls, presented by yr. Grand Jury of the Citty, but that is a business will be more adviseable in you to post pone till the time of the assizes, because the Judges may probably have some directions there in, and you may like best to hear what they will say before you send yr. answer, which I know is not expected before the assizes. I hope you will believe I offer this in friendship to you, and with reguard to Sr. Thos., yr. Brother, and that I am,

    Yr. most humble To Charles Smyth, Esq., and obedient servant,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 187

    As the companion tells it

    Cork, in 1732. Charles Smyth, member of Parliament for Limerick, was in the city on a design of building a play house. Sir Edward Lovet Pearce wrote to him from Dublin on February 2nd of that year, offering to help. Pearce had been working on a theatre project for Dublin. He said many gentlemen of fortune were concerned with him in it, and that it would in all probability take effect. He had taken a good deal of pains to inform himself of the necessary conveniences, and to make a design that might best answer their intentions. A great number were satisfied with it, he wrote, or he would not venture to recommend it to Smyth, who probably proposed some advantage to himself as they did. Pearce told Smyth that if he really was upon such a design, and would send a plan of the ground with the streets that led to it, and mention the money he expected to lay out, Pearce would return him a plan fitted for his purpose. He would send the scheme at large by which they raised the money and secured themselves. Pearce was not a judge, he said, whether Smyth's affairs would permit him to stay so long from his town of Limerick, but he hoped they would, because he thought it would be for Smyth's advantage. He also knew that Lieutenant-General Pearce had written to Smyth lately concerning the affair of the gates and walls presented by the Grand Jury of the city. That business, he said, would be more advisable in Smyth to postpone till the time of the assizes, because the judges may probably have some directions therein, and Smyth might like best to hear what they would say before sending his answer. Pearce offered all this, he wrote, in friendship to Smyth and with regard to Sir Thomas, his brother.

31. William beaten from walls of Limerick in 1690

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1690

    In 1690, King William in person was beaten back from the walls of Limerick and forced to flee, despite the city's wretched condition, demonstrating it could withstand his picked guards and legions.

    Read the passage

    With fraudj corruption^ and overpowering numbers, with Henry Lutterel and Chffbrd, who had bid for their reward, and who awaited the moment to obtain it ; with infamous traitors of this stamp in his own camp, Lutterel and Chiford, who were now in prison, awaiting a Court-Martial for their treachery and abandonment of every sacred duty which they owed their country in this tremendous crisis of its fortune, Sarsfield and those true men, who had thought and acted with him, came to the conclusion that they were fighting against odds j and though the cannon yet poured its raking fire from the King's Castle and the batteries about the bridge on the Wilhamite soldiery, and though many more of them, than has been admitted, feR beneath the shot and shell of the Irish, yet the position of afi'airs was sufiiciently discouraging in the estimation of the Irish commanders. Other deserters went over to Ginkle, among whom was Colonel Corbet, who promised that Tyrconnell's and Gabnoy's regiments were prepared to join him. This must have been a calumny on the brave soldiers of these distinguished regiments, which as active contingents of the celebrated Irish Brigade abroad afterwards, made the name of Ireland respected on foreign fields, and won for themselves enduring fame and glory. Por six long weeks, the siege had been now proceeding, but without the most distant chance of success to Ginkle and his myrmidons, had treason, on the one side and want of confidence and union on the other, done the work of Ireland's enemies. Eain had been falling in torrents for some time; a high wind had accompanied it. However, on the night of the 23rd of September, two nights after the fatal event at Thomond Bridge, a parley was beaten by the Irish drummers as well in the English-town as in the Irishtown. The rain and wind now ceased, — and as if the lull of the elements was the forerunner of a truce, at least in the strife which had raged so furiously for so long a time, Wauchop and Sarsfield, who were beyond the river at this time, proceeded to Ginkle, who was at the same place also ; Colonel Ruth had previously gone towards Mackey's fort, where Lord Drogheda's horse were posted ; but Talmash referred him to Scravemore and the Marquis De Euvigny. A cessation was that night concluded ; but though it was, the WiUiamites entertained no idea that they could possess themselves of the city ; but divided councils, treason, English gold and all artful contrivances, which have left Ireland a prey to disastrous fate at aU times, had now nearly done their work; and it only remained for Sarsfield and his adherents to make the best terms they could with a faithless foe which had never yet observed honor in its dealings with the Irish. If in 1C90, William in person had been beaten back from the waUs of Limerick, and had been forced to fly from a city which in its then wretched phght was able to withstand his picked guards and legions, surely Ginkle should have had the same tale to tell, if not a worse one, had not Lutterel and Clifford, and the French Major, and all the other traitors perjured themselves in the face of every high principle.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 145

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you move through a city that once turned a king away. In 1690, William came in person to these walls and was beaten back from them. He was forced to flee from a city in a wretched plight, yet able to withstand his picked guards and his legions. The strength of these walls was tested again the following year. Ginkle brought his forces, and for six long weeks the siege proceeded. The cannon poured raking fire from the King's Castle and the batteries about the bridge onto the Williamite soldiery. Many more of them fell beneath the shot and shell of the Irish than has been admitted. But Sarsfield and those true men who had acted with him concluded they were fighting against odds. There were traitors in the camp. Henry Lutterel and Clifford had bid for their reward and awaited the moment to obtain it. They were in prison, awaiting a court-martial for their treachery and abandonment of every duty they owed their country. Other deserters went over to Ginkle, among them Colonel Corbet, who promised that Tyrconnell's and Gabnoy's regiments were prepared to join him. Rain had been falling in torrents. On the night of the 23rd of September, two nights after the fatal event at Thomond Bridge, a parley was beaten by the Irish drummers in the English-town and the Irish-town. The rain and wind ceased. Wauchop and Sarsfield proceeded to Ginkle. Colonel Ruth had gone towards Mackey's fort, where Lord Drogheda's horse were posted, but Talmash referred him to Scravemore and the Marquis De Ruvigny. A cessation was concluded that night. The Williamites entertained no idea they could possess the city. But divided councils, treason, and English gold had nearly done their work.

32. Ban on swine within Limerick walls, 1673

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1673

    In 1673 a corporation order prohibited keeping swine within the walls of Limerick and forbade dogs from being loosed after ten at night.

    Read the passage

    1673 No swyne to be kept within the walls, nor dogs loosed after ten at night. Coruoration Book, ibid. '^

    1674 Charter granted to plasterers and slaters,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 408

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, in 1673 the corporation ordered that no swine were to be kept within the city walls, and no dogs were to be loosed after ten at night. Two simple rules for keeping the streets in order, set down in the corporation book that year.

33. 990 Irish monks martyred by Danes at Benchear

    near Bangor · town · Down

    Nine hundred and ninety Irish monks were martyred by the Danes in the monastery of Benchear. This was one of the great atrocities of the Danish incursions into Ireland.

    Read the passage

    We know of 2229 Insli Saints, even not counting their companions, of wliom 300 preached the gospel in foreign countries, not counting their companions. Of these 529 were holy abbots ; 330 were bishops and martyrs, and numberless holy bishops ; 31 archbishops of Armagh were saints ; 21 of whom immechately succeeded each other; 990 Irish monks were martyred by the Danes in the monastery of Benchear; 1200 Irish monks were martyred by the Danes together with then* abbot Abel; 777 Irislunen martyrs in England ; and only one, St. Odronus, Proto mart3rr, was martyred in Ireland by the Irish. 23 Enghsh saints received their studies and education in Ireland ; 3000 others have studied in Ireland; 100 Cambri or from Brittany have studied in Ireland. Innumerable were the ItaHaus, French, in short from aU nations who had recourse to Ireland in order to perfect themselves in their studies, and the knowledge of the scriptures ; so that it may weU be doubted whether Ireland acquired more glory from the great number of saints whom it sent abroad in order to teach and preach the gospel to foreign nations, or from the great number of foreigners who resorted to Ireland in order to be perfected in aU manner of hterature and knowledge.'

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 25

34. Abbey of Holy Trinity used as Catholic church

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1279

    The remains of the Abbey of Holy Trinity at Adare—consisting of tower, nave, and part of the choir—were used as a Catholic church. It was founded in 1279 by John, Earl of Kildare, for the redemption of Christian captives.

    Read the passage

    The Abbey of the Holy Trinity, the remains of which consist of the tower, nave, and part of the choir, is used for a Catholic church. The Franciscan Abbey, within the demesne, is a very fine ruin; the choir is lar£re, and fitted with stalls and niches, and has a beautiful four-light window; the steeple is supported on an arch; there is an aisle on the south side of the nave, which contains three crooked niches, and a threelight window. The cloisters are nearly entire, and have Gothic windows, on most of which were escutcheons, with the English and Saltire crosses, generally ranged alternately. The remains, including refectory and offices, are roofless, but in good preservation.

    History The early history of Adare is involved in great obscurity.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 417

35. Abington bridge inscription linked to Walsh family

    Abington · townland · Limerick

    An inscription on the bridge of Abington, now almost totally defaced, was believed to refer to its building or repair by the Walsh family. Dineley recorded that Alice Walsh erected the bridge after her husband's death for devotion and charity.

    Read the passage

    There was an inscription which is now almost totally defaced, on the bridge of Abington ; it is supposed to have referred to the building or repairs of it by the Walsh family.'

    At the dissolution of the monasteries in the reign of Henrjr VIII., the lands belonging to the abbey were held by the crown, and in 1545 were granted by Edward VI. to Walter Powell for a number of years, and

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 421

36. Adare Castle seized by insurgents in 1641

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1641–1657

    In 1641 Adare Castle was seized by insurgents, who were soon driven out by the Earl of Castlehaven. The castle was later dismantled by Cromwell's orders in 1657.

    Read the passage

    1641. Castle seized by the insurgents, who however were driven out by the Earl of Castlehaven.

    1657. Castle dismantled by Cromwell's orders.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 417

37. Athlone Bridge built by Sir Henry Sidney, 1568

    Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1568

    The annals record that the Bridge of Athlone was built in 1568 by Sir Henry Sidney, then Lord Justice of Ireland. The text speculates that the engineer William Englebert may have designed or built the Shannon bridges at both Limerick and Athlone.

    Read the passage

    * The old bridge, which was surmounted by the ancient " Queen's Arms," had a compartmented stone facade, containing, amongst other inscriptions, one coramemmorating the building of this bridge by Sidney, and the beheading of the " arch tray tor Shane O'Neill," as the sculptor designated the haughty and unbending Shane na Dinis. This stone is now in the R.I. A., to which it was presented by Mr. John Long, C.E., when building the new bridge at Athlone. William Englebert, a famous Engineer, v/ho was born at Sherborne, got from Queen Elizabeth for his services, 1588, a pension of 100 marks per annum. King James would not permit him to serve any foreign prince. He died in 1G34 at Westminster.* It is not improbable that this engineer built, or gave the designs for the bridges on the Shannon at Limerick and Athlone, for Sir Henry Sydney, then Lord Justice of Ireland. The annals give the building of Athlone Bridge under date 1568, as follows: — " The Bridge of Athlone was built by the Lord Justice of Ireland, i.e.. Sir Henry Sydney." Bridges over so large a river were at that time regarded as works of great magnitude, and doubtless the best engineering skill then available was secured to advise on the erection of these bridges across the Shannon.

    * Fuller s Wurtliies, Vol. 2, p. 3GG.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 58

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Athlone, the bridge here has a story going back to 1568. The annals record that the Bridge of Athlone was built by the Lord Justice of Ireland, Sir Henry Sidney. The old bridge carried a stone facade with inscriptions. One of them commemorated the building of the bridge by Sidney and the beheading of Shane O'Neill, described by the sculptor as the "arch traitor." That stone is now in the Royal Irish Academy, presented by John Long when he built the new bridge at Athlone. Bridges over so large a river as the Shannon were regarded at the time as works of great magnitude, and the best engineering skill available was doubtless secured for their erection. It is not improbable that the engineer William Englebert, born at Sherborne, built or gave the designs for the Shannon bridges at both Limerick and Athlone. Queen Elizabeth granted him a pension of 100 marks per annum for his services in 1588. King James would not permit him to serve any foreign prince.

38. Attack on Ireton's fort and the old Church fort

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1691

    A detached body of foot under Lieut.-General Mackey was ordered to attack Ireton's fort and the old Church fort near Limerick. The Church fort was deserted and Ireton's fort was evacuated, its occupants retiring to a small stone fort near the city's outworks.

    Read the passage

    supplies for a marching army, which was compelled to carry everything on the axle-tree.^ On the 8th an expedition of horse and dragoons with pioneers, were despatched towards the Silver Mines to mend the roads for Ginkle's heavy carriages ; and a second party went on to the pass at Killaloe to keep a close watch in that quarter. On this occasion seven or eight prisoners were taken ; and Ginkle was informed by deserters, consisting of a brigadier of guards and two horsemen, that the Irish army were encamped at or near Caherconlish ; that the Irish foot regiments were armed anew out of the stores of Limerick, and that they spoke of giving the Williamite army battle before they should approach the city. On the same day a Mr. Eichards appeared in the generaVs camp where he remained a few days j he was the bearer of a message from Baldearg O'Donnell, whose conduct as represented by Storey and the Williamite writers was of the most treacherous nature, and whom Richards, according to these authorities, represented as anxious to sell his country for a mess of pottage to its enemies.^ Eichards proceeded immediately after this interview with Ginkle, to Flanders, where William was at this time, in order to inform him of the progress of events. While at Nenagh Ginkle issued a proclamation offering pardon and employment to such of the people as would come in, and surrender themselves to him ; he gave the most hberal promises to such Irish officers and soldiers as would desert their colours, and give him leave to enrol them under the banner of Orange. The entire army then contimied their march towards Limerick, meeting with no great opposition, with the exception of some shght skirmishing between the advance guards and the Irish, who were posted outside the walls. The approaches were made in the same manner as they had been by WHKam, only, says Storey, " we drew more to the left, and nearer the Shannon, but fixed our camp further from the town.-'-' Two regiments of foot and one of horse had been left until the arrival of the cannon on the next day. When the larger part of Ginkle's men had got up, a detached body of foot, commanded by Lieut.-General Mackey, was ordered to attack Ireton's fort, and the old Church fort, where it was thought by Ginkle that the Irish had lodged a party — a line was made by Giukle's men across the fields, and these were sustained by several full regiments of foot, and a body of horse. An immediate advance was made towards both forts at the same moment — the Church fort had been deserted, and Ireton's fort was now evacunted, and its occupants retired to a small stone fort near the outworks of the city, when the attacking party came within gun-shot. In the afternoon Count Nassau with a party attacked CromwelPs fort, in which there were of the Irish 600 soldiers, from which they were dislodged, and in a

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 141

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Limerick, you are passing ground where Ginkle's Williamite army closed in on the city in 1691. The army had marched from Nenagh, meeting little opposition apart from some skirmishing between the advance guards and the Irish posted outside the walls. Ginkle drew his men more to the left, nearer the Shannon, and fixed his camp further from the town. He had been told by deserters, a brigadier of guards and two horsemen, that the Irish army was encamped at or near Caherconlish, that the Irish foot regiments had been armed anew out of the stores of Limerick, and that they spoke of giving the Williamite army battle before it should approach the city. When the larger part of Ginkle's men had come up, a detached body of foot under Lieut.-General Mackey was ordered to attack Ireton's fort and the old Church fort. Ginkle thought the Irish had lodged a party there. A line was made by his men across the fields, and they were sustained by several full regiments of foot and a body of horse. An immediate advance was made towards both forts at the same moment. The Church fort had been deserted. Ireton's fort was evacuated, and its occupants retired to a small stone fort near the outworks of the city, when the attacking party came within gun-shot. In the afternoon, Count Nassau with a party attacked Cromwell's fort, in which there were 600 Irish soldiers, from which they were dislodged.

39. Battle at Limerick between Domhnall and Brian's sons

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 970–980

    An army led by Domhnall, son of Dubhdabhoireann, marched to Limerick where the two sons of Brian, Donchda and Fadgli, met them in battle. The people of the south of Ireland were defeated, Domhnall fell, and many were killed along with him.

    Read the passage

    In A.D. 969, says the Annahst, "The Foreigners of Limerick were driven from Inis-Sibtond,*5 (now the King^s Island), by the son of Ceinneidigh /^* he adds in a separate paragraph that in this year " two suns of equal size were seen at high noon.''' Undoubtedly this was one of those optical illusions or mirages, which science now clearly explains. Some years subsequently, according to the Four Masters, (Keating makes the event ten years earher), O'Brien, the son of Kennedy, King of Munster, besieged Limerick, which continued to be inhabited by the Danes ; his troops were victorious ; he set fire to the city. He also engaged the Danes of Inis-Cailthe, whom he defeated with the loss of eight hundred killed, and Imohair (Humpiry), and Dubhgeann, their principal commanders, were taken prisoners. 3 In this latter year " an army, which was led by DomnhaU, son of Dubhdabhoireann, to Lunerick, the two sons of Brian, namely, Donchda and Fadgli, met them, and a battle was fought, wherein the people of the south of Ireland were defeated, and Domhnall fell and numbers along with him.''* The Danes, during a portion of this time, were reduced to the greatest extremities ; but at intervals they recruited their strength and retaliated severely on the Irish. There was no Prince in the Island who opposed their insults more than Brian Boroimhe.

    "The Glories of Brian the Brave," must be ever heard throughout the island ^vith thrilling sensations of delight and satisfaction. This glorious monarch, whose wisdom and energy are famed in history, and whose career

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 13

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick, you pass a city where a battle was fought between Domhnall, son of Dubhdabhoireann, and the two sons of Brian. In 969, the Annals say the Foreigners of Limerick were driven from Inis-Sibtond, now King's Island, by the son of Ceinneidigh. That same year, the annalist notes that two suns of equal size were seen at high noon, an optical illusion or mirage. Some years after, according to the Four Masters, though Keating makes the event ten years earlier, O'Brien, son of Kennedy, King of Munster, besieged Limerick, which the Danes still inhabited. His troops were victorious and he set fire to the city. He also fought the Danes of Inis-Cailthe and defeated them with the loss of 800 killed. Their principal commanders, Imohair, called Humpiry, and Dubhgeann, were taken prisoners. In that same year, an army led by Domhnall, son of Dubhdabhoireann, marched to Limerick. The two sons of Brian, Donchda and Fadgli, met them, and a battle was fought. The people of the south of Ireland were defeated, and Domhnall fell, with numbers killed along with him. The Danes were reduced to the greatest extremities during this time, but at intervals they recruited their strength and retaliated severely on the Irish. No prince in the island opposed their insults more than Brian Boroimhe.

40. Battle of Dysert O'Dea: Robert de Clare and son killed (1318)

    Dysert · townland · Clare · 1318

    In 1318 Robert de Clare and his son were killed at the battle of Dysert O'Dea. After this the party of Brian Ruadh was compelled to flee over the Shannon into Ara in Tipperary, where their descendants remained as the O'Briens of Ara.

    Read the passage

    " 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.

    " The brave Dalcassians having thus rid themselves both of domestic and foreign usurpation, preserved their country, their independence, and their native laws and insitutions, down to the year 1542, when Murroch, the son of Tmioch, made submission to Henry the Eighth, abandoned the ancient and glorious title of the O^Brien, and disgraced his hneage by accepting a patent of his territory from an English king, with the title of the Earl of Thomond.''^ This however is anticipating. We now follow the order of events.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 37

41. Bishop Lynch declines the mitre of Cork

    Cork · city · Cork · 1671

    Dr. Andrew Lynch, then Bishop of Kilfenora, declined the mitre of Cork when the Propaganda proposed transferring him there as part of a plan to unite Kilfenora with a neighbouring see. He preferred to remain as suffragan to the Archbishop of Rouen, and the proposed union was postponed.

    Read the passage

    of his namesake, John O'Moloney. I\i October, 1671, the Congregation do Propaganda Fide entertained the project of uniting the small diocese of Kili'cnora to either of the adjoining sees of Killaloe or Kilmacduagh, and transferring the then Bishop of Kilfenora, Dr. Andrew Lynch, to Cork. It appears by a letter of the intiirnnncio at Brussels, that this project was approved of by Dr. O'Moloney; but Dr. Lynch declined the mitre of Cork, preferring to remain as suffragan to the Archbishop of Kouen; the proposed union, therefore, was for the present postponed. Dr. O'Moloney remained in Paris for some time, afraid of the Duke of Ormonde and his satellites ;^ but the matter having been brought by Dr. Plunkett under the attention of the viceroy, in January, 1672, his excellency replied that as he had no royal order against Dr. O'Moloney, he would not, on account of the enmity of an individual, exclude the subjects of his majesty from the kingdom. During his stay in Paris he made energetic and successful exertions to establish in that city a college specially destined for the education of Irish ecclesiastical students. Owing, however, to the earnest entreaties of the Propaganda to hasten to his diocese, and ultimately to the positive orders to that etiect, which were issued on the 2nd of August, 1672, he at length left Paris, and arrived in Dublin early in November of that year; Dr. Plunkett and Dr. Brennan, Bishop of Waterford, requesting him not to return so soon. He remained in Dublin for some time, where he effected a reconciliation between Colonel Patrick Talbot and Colonel Richard Talbot, Duke of Tyrconnell, who were, at the time, two of the most influential Catholics in Ireland ; as also between the Primate, Oliver Plunkett, and Dr. Talbot, Archbishop of Dublin, between whom, for some time previously, a serious misunderstanding had ex:stcd respecting the primacy, its precedence, right of appeal, and other privileges. He communicated the result to Rome, in a letter dated from Dublin, 17th November, 1672. In the year after, he returned to Paris, resolved to forward his favourite pro ject of the Irish college, and supported on this occasion by the entire hierarchy of Ireland.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 353

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, the city carries a story from 1671. In October of that year, the Congregation of Propaganda Fide in Rome entertained a project of uniting the small diocese of Kilfenora to either of the adjoining sees of Killaloe or Kilmacduagh, and transferring the then Bishop of Kilfenora, Dr. Andrew Lynch, to Cork. The internuncio at Brussels wrote that the project was approved of by Dr. O'Moloney, a namesake of John O'Moloney. But Dr. Lynch declined the mitre of Cork. He preferred to remain as suffragan to the Archbishop of Rouen. The proposed union was therefore postponed. The backdrop was unsettled. Dr. O'Moloney remained in Paris for some time, afraid of the Duke of Ormonde and his satellites. But Dr. Plunkett brought the matter before the viceroy, and in January 1672 his excellency replied that as he had no royal order against Dr. O'Moloney, he would not, on account of the enmity of an individual, exclude the subjects of his majesty from the kingdom. During his stay in Paris, O'Moloney made energetic and successful exertions to establish a college for Irish ecclesiastical students. The Propaganda urged him to hasten to his diocese, and on the 2nd of August 1672 issued positive orders to that effect. He left Paris and arrived in Dublin early in November. Dr. Plunkett and Dr. Brennan, Bishop of Waterford, had requested him not to return so soon. In Dublin he effected a reconciliation between Colonel Patrick Talbot and Colonel Richard Talbot, Duke of Tyrconnell, two of the most influential Catholics in Ireland, and also between the Primate Oliver Plunkett and Dr. Talbot, Archbishop of Dublin, between whom a serious misunderstanding had existed respecting the primacy, its precedence, right of appeal, and other privileges.

42. Bishop O'Dea enlarges and beautifies St. Mary's Cathedral

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1405

    Bishop Cornelius O'Dea, who succeeded as Bishop in 1405, was a liberal benefactor to St. Mary's Cathedral in Limerick and enlarged and beautified it. His surviving mitre and crozier testify to his patronage of fine craftsmanship.

    Read the passage

    The illustrious Cornelius O'Dea, Archdeacon of Killaloe, succeeded Curragh or Creagh, a.d. 1405. He was a liberal benefactor to the cathedral, as we have already seen, and he also enlarged and beautified it. His mitre

    Viz.:— in 1204:, p. 1212, T. ibid. W. Reymundus, tempore Henrici de Walyn, Dec. Lim.; 121 to 1278, Thomas of Woodford ; 1295-8, John de Cotes ; 1302, Luke ; 1311, Eustace de I'Eau or Waters, who was raised to the bishopric this year; 1366, Adam Owen; 1398 to 1409,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 328

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, St. Mary's Cathedral stands in this city, and its story runs back to Bishop Cornelius O'Dea. He was Archdeacon of Killaloe before he succeeded as bishop in 1405. He was a liberal benefactor to the cathedral. He enlarged and beautified it. His mitre and crozier still survive, and they show the fine craftsmanship his patronage supported.

43. Canal navigation and flour mills halted by water scarcity

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    In summer, a scarcity of water caused canal navigation near Limerick to be suspended. All flour mills near the city were forced to cease working, making bread very scarce and dear.

    Read the passage

    n the summer of this year, in consequence of the scarcity of water, the c^nal navigation was suspended All the flour mills near the city were obliged by the same cause to cease workino', which rendered bread stuS"s very scarce and dear.

    Th^Sew theatre, George Street (now the church of St. Augustme), opened on the 29th July.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 413

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, there is a story from one summer. A scarcity of water caused the canal navigation to be suspended. All the flour mills near the city were obliged by the same cause to cease work, which rendered bread stuffs very scarce and dear.

44. Capuchin church built in Irish-town, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1688

    In 1688 a Capuchin-built church was completed in the Irish-town area of Limerick, later called the Infirmary in Palmerstown. Father Maurice White, a Capuchin from Clonmel, said the first Mass there; the church was taken down in March 1707 and its site forgotten.

    Read the passage

    In the next year was finished the Church which the Capuchins built in the Irish-town, afterwards called the Infirmary inPalmerstown. The fu'st who said Mass therein was one Father Maurice White, a Capuchin friar from Clonmel. It is said that Father Jasper White was security for the money, which he was afterwards obliged to pay."*

    On 10th of June the same year, Charles Ignatius James, Prince of Wales, was born ; his godfathers were the Pope's Nuncio and the Queen's brother ; the godmothers were the Queen-Dowager of King Charles II. and the Duchess of Pembroke. He was the first Prince in England who had been baptized by a priest for two hundred years. Upon this account Robert Hannon, Mayor of Limerick, made great rejoicings, and " let three hogsheads of wine run" among the populace.^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 119

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Limerick. In 1688 the Capuchins finished a church they had built in the Irish-town, afterwards called the Infirmary in Palmerstown. The first who said Mass there was Father Maurice White, a Capuchin friar from Clonmel. Father Jasper White stood security for the money, and was afterwards obliged to pay it himself. The church was taken down in March 1707, and its site was forgotten.

45. Cathedral roof renewed from west tower to east gable

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1815

    At the end of August 1815, the roofing of the Cathedral from the western tower to the eastern gable was finished. The old rafters were of oak, ten inches square, much decayed, and the roof was supposed to be coeval with the Cathedral itself.

    Read the passage

    At the conclusion of the month of August, the roofing of the Cathedral, from the western tower or steeple to the eastern gable was finished. It was begun in the month of April, the roof at the time, being in a very tottering state, was partially stript. The rafters were all of oak, ten inches square, and much decayed and rotted, for about two feet from the bottom — by lowering the pitch of the roof, most of them were of great utility. The roof supposed to be coeval with the Cathedral.

    November 24th. — Peter Hehir, died in the Poor House, aged 102 years — he had the full exercise of his mental faculties to the last moment. — Limerick Chronicle.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 249

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the Cathedral had its roof renewed in 1815. The work began in April and was finished at the end of August. The roof had been in a very tottering state and was partially stripped. The old rafters were all of oak, ten inches square, much decayed and rotted for about two feet from the bottom. By lowering the pitch of the roof, most of them were still of great utility. The old roof was supposed to be coeval with the Cathedral itself.

46. Cathedral tower as first facade-placed tower in Ireland

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The tower of St. Mary's Cathedral, placed on a pillared archway over the entrance in the middle of the facade, is described as the first instance of a tower placed in the facade in Ireland, attributed to an O'Brien architect and possibly part of the original palace of Donald O'Brien.

    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

    As you pass through Limerick, St. Mary's Cathedral holds a tower that is the first instance of a tower placed in the facade in Ireland, and perhaps in England. Wilkinson supposed it 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 gone, on the south side of the western front. That church was larger than St. Mary's, far more ornate, and altogether more carefully got up. The author takes it that the unsightliness of St. Mary's 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 was rebuilt, as the spear-headed doorway, a lying monument of perverted taste, shows. After the second siege, as fatal to it as the first, 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.

47. Catholic Bishops' tombs at St. John's churchyard

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Several Catholic Bishops—O'Kearney, Conway, and M'Mahon—are buried in St. John's churchyard. An older tomb bears curious sculptures depicting the betrayal of Christ, including a cock and thirty pieces of silver.

    Read the passage

    erected, and praying the Lord to have mercy on his soul. The slipper probably refers to the fatal dancing which led to the beheading of John the Baptist, to whom this church is dedicated. Several respectable citizens of modern times, including the Gavin family, are buried in this churchyard. Among the other tombs are those of the Catholic Bishops O'Kearney, Conway, M'Mahon, and one of older date bearing a variety of most ciirious sculptures, representing that part of the Gospel history which describes the betrayal of the Saviour. The cock, thirty pieces of silver, etc., etc., are quite visible. Before 1763, when £500 were expended on the repairs of this church, it contained a fine monument of the Power family, surrounded by figures of the twelve apostles, sculptured in stone, with armorial bearings, and having the following inscription underneath : —

    THOMAS POWER, quondam civis Limericensis, et ejus uxor JOANNA EICE, hoc monumentum hseredibus suis construxerunt, in quo ambo sepeliuntur. Ora pro eis plus lector. Qulsquis eris qui transis,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 395

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick, there's a churchyard at St. John's worth noting. The church is dedicated to John the Baptist. One old tomb there carries curious sculptures showing the betrayal of Christ, a cock and thirty pieces of silver, all quite visible. Several Catholic Bishops are buried in this ground: O'Kearney, Conway, and M'Mahon. The Gavin family and other respectable citizens lie here too. A slipper carved somewhere probably refers to the fatal dancing that led to the beheading of John the Baptist. Before 1763, when 500 pounds were spent on repairs, the church held a fine monument of the Power family, with the twelve apostles sculptured in stone around it, armorial bearings, and an inscription for Thomas Power and his wife Joanna Rice, who built the monument for their heirs, in which both are buried.

48. Churches and towers of Inniscalthra founded by Comin

    near Inishcaltra or Holy Island · townland · Clare · 549

    About the year 549, the holy Comin founded the churches and towers of Inniscalthra on the Shannon. This is presented as one of the early Christian foundations connected to the Limerick region.

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    About the year 549, the holy Comin founded the churches and towers of Inniscalthra, on the Shannon. After the bloody battle of Cuildrheinne, which was fought between Dermod and Cuorrane Mac Aodla, in which the latter was aided by St. Columba, whose asylum he sought, which was invaded by Diurmuid — the victory being attributed more to the prayers of the saint than to the valour of tlie soldiery — Dermod had scarcely recruited the loss of the battle, when he commenced a war against the gallant Guare, King of Connaught. It is believed that he refused to pay the provincial tax, crowning Dermod as a monarch, who marched his army along the Shannon, probably to a little above Killaloe. The mediation of the holy Comin proved fruitless, as all remonstrances were rejected by Guare, who was foretold by the saint that his troops would be routed. The monarch's horse and foot plunged into the Shannon, forcibly gained the opposite bank, routed the enemy, who fled precipitately, yet rallied the following day. Guare, dreading to make his coimtry a scene of war, surrendered himself to the monarch.

    Before St. Columba established his celebrated monastic institution in the Scotch Island of lona, an institution which remained undisturbed for two hvmdred years, an abbey had been founded at Mungret, the ancient Mongairit, about two miles south-west of Limerick, by St. Nessan^ surnamed the Leper, who was confirmed by St. Patrick himself in the abbacy, and who died in 551, according to the Annals of the Four Masters, but according to the Annals of Clonmacnoise, in 561.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 310

49. Citizens' fines applied to cathedral repairs

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1500–1505

    During the mayoralty of William Stackpoll in 1500, fines imposed on citizens Anthony Galway and Philip England were commanded to be spent on repairs to the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In 1505, Mayor William Harrold likewise expended citizens' fines on building the church.

    Read the passage

    was not at tliis periocl, to apply tlie fines that were levied by the mayor on the citizens, towards the restoration and improvement of the cathedral. For instance, during the mayoralty of" William Stackpoll, John Everard and Richard FitzNicholas Creagh, bailiffs, a.d. 1500, the Mayor commanded that the fines which had been imposed on Anthony Galway and Philip England should be expended on the repairs of the Church of the Blessed Virgin; and in 1505, William Harrold for the second time mayor, Nicholas Creagh and John Rochfort, bailiffs, the Mayor expended the fines imposed on the citizens in the building the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary.*

    In 1519, Geoffrey Arthur, the ninth treasurer of the cathedral, according to Dr. Cotton, died, and his monument, which has been a serious puzzle to antiquaries and historians, and which Ferrar and Fitzgerald made ridiculous, deserves particular notice. The following is an exact engraving of a tracing of this monument, made by the author of this work, and which is followed by the contracted Latin of the original, expanded, with a translation : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 332

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city holds a piece of its cathedral history from the early 1500s. It was the practice then to take fines levied by the mayor on the citizens and put them toward the restoration and improvement of the cathedral. In the year 1500, during the mayoralty of William Stackpoll, when John Everard and Richard FitzNicholas Creagh served as bailiffs, the mayor commanded that the fines imposed on two citizens, Anthony Galway and Philip England, should be spent on the repairs of the Church of the Blessed Virgin. Then in 1505, William Harrold, serving for the second time as mayor, with Nicholas Creagh and John Rochfort as bailiffs, again expended fines imposed on the citizens toward building the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. So the money citizens paid in penalties went directly into the fabric of the cathedral, under two different mayors, five years apart.

50. Confederate Council envoys sent to Limerick, 1643

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1643

    The Confederate Council, then in Clonmel, dispatched Sir Daniel O'Brien of Dough and George Comyn of Limerick to shore up support among loyal citizens and prepare for the Council's possible arrival in Limerick. The Mayor and his allies resisted, claiming corn scarcity and the risk of disruptive crowds.

    Read the passage

    The conduct of the Mayor and Corporation, and of certain prominent citizens of Limerick in this crisis, was selfish and timid in the extreme ; they desired, as it were, to remain, quiescent spectators of what was passing, rather than take an active part in events of the deepest national interest. The truth is that many of them were secret sympathisers with Lord Inchiquin, and the Earl of Thomond with whom they carried on a constant correspondence. To counteract the mischief which was growing out of this state of things, the Council of the confederation, which was now in Clonmel, despatched Sir Daniel 0''Brien of Dough, and Mr. George Comyn of Limerick, with directions to confirm the party faithful to the confederates in their resolutions, to sift to the bottom of what was agitated, and to prepare the way, if possible, for the coming of the confederate Council to Limerick. But the Major, and those who acted with him, notwdthstanding the opinions to the contrary of the Eight Eev. Dr. Arthur, who was Cathohc Bishop, the Clergy, and the citizens generally, were violently opposed to the introduction of the Council and Envoy, and represented the country to be scarce of corn between Clonmel and Limerick ; that great inconvenience would arise from the crowds which would be certain to arrive if the Council repaired to the city.^ Dr. Thomas Arthur conducted the correspondence on the part of the Mayor, &c. and his letters, two of which from his MSS. I give in a note, testify to the extreme sensitiveness which was felt lest the Papal Envoy and Council should arrive in Limerick. ^

    ' Billing's Fragmentum Historicum in Desiderata Curiosa Hibernica.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 87

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are moving through a city that in 1643 stood at the centre of a tense political struggle. The Mayor and Corporation wanted no part in the national crisis. They preferred to watch from the sidelines. Many of them were secret sympathisers with Lord Inchiquin and the Earl of Thomond, carrying on a steady correspondence with both. The Confederate Council, then sitting in Clonmel, saw the danger in this. They dispatched two men to Limerick: Sir Daniel O'Brien of Dough and Mr. George Comyn of Limerick. Their orders were to confirm those citizens still faithful to the confederate cause in their resolve, to find out exactly what was being stirred up, and to prepare the ground for the Council itself to come to the city if possible. The Mayor and those acting with him fought the move. They went against the opinion of the Right Reverend Dr. Arthur, the Catholic Bishop, the clergy, and the citizens generally. Their excuse was practical: the country between Clonmel and Limerick was scarce of corn, they said, and great inconvenience would arise from the crowds certain to follow if the Council repaired to the city. Dr. Thomas Arthur handled the correspondence for the Mayor. His letters testify to the extreme sensitiveness felt lest the Papal Envoy and Council should arrive in Limerick.

51. Coote besieges Portumna House

    Portumna · town · Galway · 1651

    Sir Charles Coote was engaged in bloody deeds in Connaught, besieging Portumna House, the residence of the Earl of Clanrickarde, who had been constituted deputy of the province by the Earl of Ormond.

    Read the passage

    Sir Charles Coote, during these proceedings, was engaged in bloody deeds in Connaught, where he besieged Portumna house, the residence of the Earl of Clanrickarde, and whom as we have seen, the Earl of Ormond had constituted his deputy in that province. Ludlow, from whose memoirs we have drawn some of these details, in his progress from Connaught to Limerick, where his presence in aid of Ireton was essentially demanded, summoned Gurtenshegore, a castle near Gort, belonging to Sir Dermot O^Shaughnessy, who being at the time in Galway, had left his tenants, some soldiers, and Polliot, an Enghshman, to command them, in the castle. Here Ludlow was treated, for a time, with utter contempt, the occupants of the castle soundiug their bag-pipes in derision, although fire and faggot, iron bars, pickaxes and sledges threatened them. The defenders resisted bravely. A desperate engagement ensued, FolUot acting with determined pertinacity — and it was not until after severe fighting, the castle was surrendered. Ireton^s army marched immediately to Limerick. Pive hundred head of cattle that had been taken in Burren, Co. Clare, were driven on, and killed to refresh the army, to which Ludlow and his friends now returned, and which had already possessed themselves of a fort that stood in the middle of the river Shannon, on the great Lax weir, where the ruins of the castle are yet to be seen. A small battery of two guns had been erected against the castle ; one of them was fii'ed into a room, and breaking the leg of a soldier, so terrified the others that betaking themselves to their boats, they abandoned the place — which the Parliamentarians perceiving, fired so furiously on them, that aU in the boats surrendered, notwithstanding which, some of them were put to the sword, by the merciless soldiery, whose hearts were steeled against humanity. They perpetrated a cold-blooded slaughter, which Ireton condemned, and

    174 HISTORY OF LIMERICK.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 97

52. Cork Catholics sign loyal address

    Cork · city · Cork · 1759–1760

    In response to the viceroy's proclamation regarding a threatened French invasion, one hundred and thirty Catholics in Cork signed a loyal address to the throne.

    Read the passage

    a proper person to fill the vacant bisliopric, when they unanimoiisly chose the Very Rev. John Creagh, Dean of the diocese, above mentioned, to be eligible primo loco ; the Rev. David Bourkc in sccundo loco, and the Rev. Rowland Kirby in tertio loco, when an act to that effect was solemnly drawn up and duly signed by the canons and parish priests, and countersigned by the Rev. John De Lacy, Prothonotary Apostolic, and the Rev. James White, Notary Apostolic. Though, as we have stated, the postulation was unanimous, the court of Rome, nevertheless, in consequence of an attestation signed by four bishops in favour of Dr. Daniel O'Kearney, a native of the city of Limerick, a Doctor of the Scibonne, and parisli priest of St. Patrick's, chose Dr. O'Kearney, on the 21st of November, for the mitre of Limerick. At this period there were great troubles and apprehensions entertained by the government respecting a threatened French invasion of England and Ireland. The Duke of Bedford, lord lieutenant, signified, in consequence, to the Irish Catholics, the king's wish that they should manifest a perfect zeal and loyalty ; and in obedience to the proclamation of the viceroy, ninety of the principal Catholics of Limerick signed a most loyal and dutiful address to the tlirone, but many others refused signing it.' In Cork, one hundred and thirty Catholics signed the address, and in Waterford a very large number did the same. It may be observed as a strange fact, that the entire trade and commerce of the city of Limerick were at this time in the hands of Cathohc merchants and traders. By sea and by land the Catholics held uncontrolled the mercantile affairs of the city and port in their exclusive possession.^ But apprehensions were indulged in, which were soon afterwards realized, that through the imprudence and avarice of some of the Catholic merchants, who, for the sake of getting large apprentice fees, took Protestant and Presbyterian apprentices, who began to settle in trade and business in the city, the Catholics would lose their preeminence.^ This, however, is a digression.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 358

    As the companion tells it

    The road is bringing you through Cork, and in 1759 this city played its part in a story that reached across Ireland. There were great troubles and apprehensions entertained by the government respecting a threatened French invasion of England and Ireland. The Duke of Bedford, lord lieutenant, signified to the Irish Catholics the king's wish that they should manifest a perfect zeal and loyalty. In obedience to the proclamation of the viceroy, Catholics across Ireland were asked to sign a loyal and dutiful address to the throne. In Limerick, ninety of the principal Catholics signed it, but many others refused. Here in Cork, one hundred and thirty Catholics signed the address. In Waterford, a very large number did the same. The material notes that the entire trade and commerce of the city of Limerick were at this time in the hands of Catholic merchants and traders. By sea and by land the Catholics held uncontrolled the mercantile affairs of the city and port in their exclusive possession. But there were apprehensions, soon afterwards realized, that through the imprudence and avarice of some Catholic merchants who took Protestant and Presbyterian apprentices for the sake of large apprentice fees, the Catholics would lose their preeminence. That, though, the author calls a digression from the matter at hand.

53. Corporation loses toll rights to Great Southern and Western Railway

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1850

    A more concentrated attack on the Corporation's tolls and customs eventuated in 1850 with a verdict in favour of the Great Southern and Western Railway, which disputed the Corporation's legal right to levy tolls, resulting in the loss of that principal revenue.

    Read the passage

    This, however, was but the commencement of a more concentrated and powerful attack on the tolls and customs of the Corporation, in a word, on the principal revenue of that body, which eventuated, in 1850, in the loss of the tolls and a verdict in favour of the Great Southern and Western Railway, which disputed the legal right of the Corporation to levy them.

    Michael Quin, Esq., was swoin jNIayor of Limerick on the 1st of January, 1848. On the 4th of May railway communication was opened up for the first time between Limerick and Dublin ; and possession Avas obtained of the Island Bank, or road-way around the King's Island, for the recreation of the citizens.' The Corporation agreed with the eminent artist, the late

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 290

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries a story from 1850. The Corporation of Limerick held tolls and customs as its principal revenue. That year brought a concentrated and powerful attack on those tolls. The Great Southern and Western Railway disputed the legal right of the Corporation to levy them. The case ended in a verdict in favour of the railway, and the Corporation lost the tolls. The loss struck at what the record calls the principal revenue of that body. The years around it were busy ones. Michael Quin was sworn Mayor of Limerick on the 1st of January, 1848. On the 4th of May, railway communication was opened for the first time between Limerick and Dublin.

54. Creagh obtains Dangan castle and lands in Clare

    Dangan · townland · Clare

    After the restoration, Pierce Creagh returned from France and obtained by patent the castle, town, and lands of Dangan in County Clare. The Creaghs of Dangan are represented as descended from this Pierce Creagh, who had been Mayor of Limerick in 1601.

    Read the passage

    In Sir Bernard Burke's Landed Gentry of Ireland, the Creaghs of Dangan, County Clare, are represented as descended from Pierce Creagh, Esq. of Adare, Mayor of Limerick in IGol, son and heir of Pierce Creagh, Esq. of Adare, M.P. for the city of Limerick in 1G39, and deprived of his estate of Adare for having corresponded with the Duke of Ormond. On the restoration, he returned from France, and obtained by patent, the castle, town, and lands of Dangan, County Clare.

    Helenas White, Esq. J. P. of Limerick, possesses a pedigree on illuminated vellum, which shows that Richard White, the first of his family, came from England to Limerick, in A D. 1418, and acquired great honor and reputation. He settled at Ballyneety, so called from his name (Whitestown) in the County of Limerick, says the pedigree, and afterwards acquired the estate of BaUynanty in said count}'. From this Richard White of Ballyneaty descended several families of the name. Richard built the Castle and Church of Ballyneaty, and began the building of the Church of BaUynanty, which after his death was finished by his son and heir, who acquired the estate of Tullybrackey, where he also built a Church. The descendants of Eichard erected stately burying places in the said Churches of Ballyneety or Whitestown, BaUynanty, and Tullybrackey, and in the Cathedral Church of Limerick. Ulster King at Arms, A.D. 171G,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 77

55. Curse upon Londonderry

    Derry · townland · Derry · 1689

    The poem curses Londonderry, blaming it for the deaths of many gallant Irish youths who lie coffinless, referring to the Siege of Derry during the Williamite War.

    Read the passage

    But, . for you, Londonderry, ma}' Plague smite and slay

    Your people ! — May Ruin desolate you, stone by stone ! Through you a many a gallant youth lies coffinless to-day, With the winds for mourners alone ! Och ! ochone !

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 156

56. Daniel Arthur of Limerick patronizes Jesuit Scottish mission

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Daniel Arthur, a merchant of Limerick, patronized the Jesuit mission to Scotland, helping it with his purse as well as his prayers. The mission was cultivated by Irish Jesuit Fathers for a hundred years afterwards, including Father Kaly and Father O'Meara of Drogheda.

    Read the passage

    This mission was patronized by Daniel Arthur, a merchant of Limerick, who helped it with his purse as well as with his praj'crs, and it was cultivated by the Irish Jesuit Fathers for a hundred years afterwards : a Father Kaly was there some years after Father Galwey's death ; and Father O'Meara, a Drogheda Jesuit, reconciled two hundred Scots to the Church in the year 1712.

    The Irish fathers suffered as much in their own isle as in the Caribbee or Scotch islands. Before the Puritan conquest they numbered eighty, had six colleges, eight residences, besides many oratories and schools ; but in the universal desolation there were but seventeen fathers, and they were stripped of everything, even of their breviaries. They ofi'ered up Mass in a cave or granary, or corner before day. Some found a refuge in the towns and m the huts of the poor, others dragged out a miserable existence in the woods and mountains, consoling and conl'essing the Catholics ; some as rustics or mendicants, or seanachies, went from town to town and from house to house, dwelt in ruined buildings, and slept in the porticoes of churches, lest they should compromise the Catholics. They often had to live in bogs and mountains to escape the heretic horsemen. One father was hunted to death, another had to lie hid in his father's sepulchre, one lived in a deep pit, from which at intervals he went forth on some mission of charity. The enemy having ascertained his whereabouts, threw big blocks of stone into the pit, but fortunately the good father Avas out.^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 382

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Limerick, there is a link here to the old Jesuit mission to Scotland. Daniel Arthur, a merchant of this city, patronized that mission, helping it with his purse as well as his prayers. The mission was cultivated by Irish Jesuit Fathers for a hundred years afterwards. Father Kaly was there some years after Father Galwey's death. Father O'Meara, a Drogheda Jesuit, reconciled 200 Scots to the Church in 1712. The Irish fathers suffered as much in their own isle as in the Caribbean or Scottish islands. Before the Puritan conquest they numbered 80, had 6 colleges, 8 residences, besides many oratories and schools. But in the universal desolation there were but 17 fathers, stripped of everything, even of their breviaries. They offered Mass in a cave or granary, or a corner before day. Some found refuge in the towns and the huts of the poor. Others dragged out a miserable existence in the woods and mountains, consoling and confessing the Catholics. Some, as rustics or mendicants or seanachies, went from town to town and house to house, dwelt in ruined buildings, slept in the porticoes of churches, lest they should compromise the Catholics. They often had to live in bogs and mountains to escape the heretic horsemen. One father was hunted to death. Another had to lie hid in his father's sepulchre. One lived in a deep pit, from which at intervals he went forth on some mission of charity. The enemy, having ascertained his whereabouts, threw big blocks of stone into the pit, but the good father was out.

57. David Wolfe of Limerick named as Pope's nuncio

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1565

    In his March 1565 examination, Richard Creagh identified David Wolfe as a fellow citizen of Limerick and the Pope's nuncio, a professed Jesuit who had lived in Rome about eight years and was sent to Ireland to inspect bishoprics.

    Read the passage

    While our illustrious Archbishop lay a prisoner in the Tower of London, he underwent a series of interrogations at the hands of Sir William Cecil, as to his going to Rome, and as to the English and Irish subjects who were acquainted with his movements. In Shirley's Original Letters there is a copy of the examination taken from the holograph of Sir William Cecil. The Archbishop gave an account of those with whom he was acquainted, and whom he met in Rome, including Murtough and Donough O'Brien, scholars, Dermod O'Thady, Conor og, Owen Myers, &c. Whilst he was in Korae he was succored by the Pope, both in meat, drink, and house rent, because he was sent thither by the Pope's command, which he was bound to obey by an oath taken when a student in Louvain. On being questioned as to how many English, Irish, and others, he made privy to the cause of his return into Ireland, he replied, that with the exception of an English Jesuit, who was at Dellingen, near Augsburgh, and two friars of St. Francis, an English and an Irishman, whom he met at Antwerp, and one Doctor Clement, who lived in that city, no one knew of the circumstance. Some j'oung Irish scholars had heard in Louvain, perhaps from persons who had come from Rome, of his appointment to the Archbishopric of Armagh. He said that he had spent a portion of his time in merchandise, which was true, — that he carried a letter from the Pope to Shane O'Neil, — that he did not endeavour to procure the Bishopric of Down and Connor for Shane's brother, a young man of twenty-three years of age, and unlearned, — that he was aware the Queen only could found a university, — that he was anxious to convert those who were given to all kinds of iniquities, to murders, &c. He stated that he lost part of a ship, esteemed to be worth nine thousand ducats, by the French gallies in the war in King Henry's time, and that a sum of £32 was taken from his brother by the searcher of Dover -when he was going with the monej' to Louvain, to pay for his (the Archbishop's) school expenses, &c. &c. This examination was taken on the 22nd of February, 1564-'5, and on the 17th of March in the same year, another examination was taken by Richard Ousley, Recorder of London, and Thomas Wilson, Master of St. Katharine's Hospital, which is also given in Shirley's Original Letters. In this examination he stated that David Wolfe, a fellow citizen of Limerick, was the Pope's nuncio — that Wolfe was a professed Jesuit — that he had lived in Rome about eight years — that he was sent from Rome, by obedience, to Ireland, to see what Bishops did duties in this country, what sees were void, and that he himself had been most commonly in the Bishopric of Limerick, and had taught children there. His introduction to the nuncio arose from the fact that the nuncio had heard he was learned — that he so required him to go to Rome, and take upon him the Archbishopric of Cashel, and afterwards the Archbishopric of Armagh being void before his departure, the nuncio charged him to go to Rome for the Archbishopric of Cashel or Armagh, which he could not refuse, because when a bachelor of divinity in Louvain he swore obedience to the Pope, and therefore durst not disobey the nuncio. He stated that the nuncio gave him a letter to Cardinal Morone — that on his coming to Korae he delivered his letters to the superior of the Jesuits, he desiring to enter religion, but he was commanded shortly after by Cardinal Gonzage, who was acting in the place of Cardinal Morone, then at the Council of Trent, that he should not enter into religion till he had known the Pope's pleasure. In answer to further questions, he stated that when he was leaving Ireland the nuncio gave him forty crowns — that the Bishop of Limerick (Hugh Lacy) gave him twelve marks, " the which 12 markes he had as an exibion for his fyndy'g there," and twenty crowns he had of his own, and more he had not by credit or otherwise. On being questioned where the nuncio most commonly kept in Ireland, he stated that he had secretly come to Limerick, and had been the last summer with Shane O'Ncil in TjTone, as he heard, and that the letters he received were delivered to him in Limerick, in the presence of a Priest called Sir Thomas Molam. He stated further that he went out of Ireland two years before — that he came to Rome in January — that in February he was commanded not to enter into religion, and that afterwards be was charged upon the Pope's curse, not to refuse the Archbishopric of Armagh, and about Easter, twelve months after, he was consecrated by Lomelinus (Beneditto Lomellino of Genoa, born 1517, Clerk of the Apostolic Chamber, Bishop successivel}- of Anagui, Vintimiglia, Luni, and Sarzana, and afterwards Cardinal, died in 1579), and another Bishop, in the I'ope's chapel, and so came from Rome in July last past. He repeated that while in Rome the Pope bore all his expenses after he had warning not to enter religion, and had daily meat, drink, and wine, for himself and his servant at the Pope's cost — paying for his house room six crowns by the month, having had at various times from the Pope 700 crowns, of which he had 300 crowns from the Pope when leaving Rome, and 100 crowns from the nuncio — he had apparel of three

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 68

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Limerick city. In March 1565, an examination was taken by Richard Ousley, Recorder of London, and Thomas Wilson, Master of St. Katharine's Hospital, from a man called Richard Creagh. He had been a prisoner in the Tower of London, and had already undergone one examination in February by Sir William Cecil. In this second examination, Creagh stated that David Wolfe, a fellow citizen of Limerick, was the Pope's nuncio. He said Wolfe was a professed Jesuit, that he had lived in Rome about eight years, and that he was sent from Rome by obedience to Ireland, to see what bishops did duties in the country and what sees were void. Creagh himself had been most commonly in the Bishopric of Limerick, where he had taught children. He said his introduction to the nuncio arose because the nuncio had heard he was learned. The nuncio required him to go to Rome and take upon him the Archbishopric of Cashel, and afterwards, the Archbishopric of Armagh being void before his departure, the nuncio charged him to go to Rome for Cashel or Armagh. Creagh said he could not refuse, because when a bachelor of divinity in Louvain he swore obedience to the Pope, and therefore durst not disobey the nuncio. The nuncio gave him a letter to Cardinal Morone. When leaving Ireland, the nuncio gave him forty crowns, and the Bishop of Limerick, Hugh Lacy, gave him twelve marks. Creagh stated that the nuncio had secretly come to Limerick, and had been the last summer with Shane O'Neil in Tyrone, as he heard. The letters the nuncio received were delivered to him in Limerick, in the presence of a priest called Sir Thomas Molam.

58. Death of Earl of Tyrone and Curraghmore inheritance, 1704

    Curraghmore · townland · Waterford · 1704

    In 1704, James, eighth Lord Power and Curraghmore, third and last Earl of Tyrone, died leaving an only daughter, Lady Catherine Power. She married Sir Marcus Beresford in 1717, from which marriage descends the Marquis of Waterford. Colonel John Power became nearest heir male but was barred by his attainder.

    Read the passage

    1704. Died James, eighth Lord Power and Curraghmore, third and last Earl of Tyrone, leaving an only daughter, lady Catherine Power (subsequently married in 1717, to Sir Marcus Beresford, Bart., from this marriage descends the Marquis of Waterford). Colonel John Power then became the nearest heir male of the body of Pdchard, first Lord Power and Curraghmore, and as such would have been ninth Lord, had it not been for his attainder and outlmvnj.

    Luttrell, in his diary (Sept., 1704), says, referring to news from Ireland, " that the Earl of Tyrone is dead, and succeeded by Colonel Poore, a Roman Catholic, in the service of the Duke of Savoy, in honour, and in estate by his only daughter, an heiress."

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 474

59. De Lacy defeated at Bruff by Captain Slingsby

    Bruff · town · Limerick · 1600

    In 1600 Pierce De Lacy, the governor of Bruff, was defeated by Captain Slingsby from Kilmallock with the loss of 300 men. The castle was then garrisoned by the Lord President.

    Read the passage

    1600. Pierce De Lacy, the governor, defeated by Captain Slingsby, from Kilmallock, with the loss of 300 men. The castle was garrisoned by the Lord President.

    1641. The insurgents defeated by the English here, after a bloody engagement.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 424

60. Depression, dearth and famine in Limerick, mid-1730s

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1735–1739

    Throughout the city and country around Limerick in the mid-1730s, much misery prevailed, with bigotry and fanaticism having full fling. Depression, dearth, and famine were generally felt to act with galling severity on the masses.

    Read the passage

    The city was confined at the time principally to the English town and Irish town ; the size and population of the parish of St. Michael may be judged of from a very simple fact. The parish had been joined to that of St. John in 1709 ; but in 1735, the Eev. Dr. Pierce Creagh, who had officiated as Catholic pastor of St. Mary^s, afterwards for many years, arrived from Eome, where he had completed his studies, bringing with him a papal bull for the Catholic archdeaconship of the city, and the parish of St. Michael belonging to it.^ On the 21st of February in that year, he took possession of the archdeaconship, but the parish of St. Michael being so extremely poor at the time, it was not able to support a clergyman, and Dr. Creagh heeded it not.^ Not only was the parish poor, but throughout the city and country much misery prevailed, and bigotry and fanaticism had fuU fling. Depression, dearth, and famine were generally felt to act with galling severity on the masses ; whilst a few years later, a dreadful frost — the great frost of 1739, which continued for forty days, and from which many memorable incidents have* been dated, was accompanied and followed by unparalleled

    ' White's MSS. « Ibid. a Ibid.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 188

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is a city that in the mid-1730s held misery in its streets and the country around it. The city was confined principally to the English town and the Irish town. The parish of St. Michael had been joined to that of St. John in 1709. In 1735 the Reverend Dr. Pierce Creagh, who had officiated as Catholic pastor of St. Mary's, arrived from Rome, where he had completed his studies, bringing with him a papal bull for the Catholic archdeaconship of the city, and the parish of St. Michael belonging to it. On the 21st of February that year he took possession of the archdeaconship, but the parish of St. Michael was so extremely poor at the time it was not able to support a clergyman, and Dr. Creagh heeded it not. Not only was the parish poor, but throughout the city and country much misery prevailed, and bigotry and fanaticism had full fling. Depression, dearth, and famine were generally felt to act with galling severity on the masses. A few years later came the great frost of 1739, which continued for forty days, and from which many memorable incidents have been dated.