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. Dominican convent at Six Mile Bridge demolished in 1641 wars

   Six-mile-bridge · town · Clare · 1641–1754

   A Dominican house subject to the Limerick convent existed at Six Mile Bridge, County Clare, named in Irish from the river O'Gearna flowing into the Shannon. De Burgo visited the site in 1754 and found no vestige of the convent remaining.

   Read the passage

   There was another house of the order at Six Mile Bridge, in the County of Clare, subject to the Limerick convent, of which de Burgo (Hih. Dom., p. 213) states, he can add nothing to the fact that it existed, except that it is asserted on the authority of O'Heyne, that it was called in Irish ^bbhuin CgeA^nA,' from the name of the river (O'goA'pnA) which flows into the Shannon, and that it was demolished in the wars of 1G41. De Burgo further states that he visited the site in the year 1754, on the 5th of May, and that he could find no vestige whatever of the convent of Six Mile Bridge.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 373

2. Donnell O'Brien's galley on the Shannon

   Shannon · town · Clare

   Donnell O'Brien operated a galley on the River Shannon that caused significant harm to the King's subjects. The commander captured this vessel, removing the threat it posed to shipping and trade.

   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

3. Edward Flinn, Catholic printer of the Limerick Journal

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1787

   Edward Flinn, a Catholic, was proprietor of the Limerick Journal from about 1787 and resided in Mary Street opposite Quay Lane. He enjoyed the patronage of Lord Clare and reaped a harvest publishing Castle Proclamations.

   Read the passage

   3 Sir Henry Hartstonge's candidature for the county was postponed to 177G, when he and the Kight. Hon. Silver Oliver were returned. Among the supporters of INIr. Smyth in 17GS, was Edward Lloyd, Esq. of Eyon, who writing to offer him his vote and interest says, he saw an account of the passing of the Octennial Bill in the Mvnster Journal, a venerable broad sheet, with which, and its immediate successors, several curious associations are connected, that throw light on the journalistic and dramatic history of the day. The Munster Journal was said to be the oldest Journal in the province of Munster. The proprietor was Mr. Andrew Welsh, ancestor of the respectable family of Welsh of Newtown House, county Clare, and a gentleman of enterprise and ability. INIr. Welsh also published the Magazine of Magazine?, which appears to have been a reprint of ExshaAv's London and DidiUn Magazine, with a Limerick title-page. The Minister Journal was succeeded, about 1787, by the Limerick Journal, of which IMr. Edward Flinn was the proprietor ; this Journal enjoj^ed the patronage of Lord Clare, to whom the owner of it was agent, and reaped a harvest by the publication of the Castle Proclamations. Mr. Flinn who was a Catholic, resided in Mary-street, opposite Quay-lane ; Athlunkard-street not having been made for many years afterwards. His fellow-citizens and neighbours in ISIary-street were Mr. AV illiam Goggin," the great Chap Book and Ballad Printer, whose shop at the corner of Quay-lane, was known by the sign of Shakespear. Alderman Andrew Watson, the successor of l\Ir. Joha Ferrar, in the proprictorsliip of tl\e Limerick Chronicle, had his office and residence near the office of the Z-imencit yourea?, whilst " Charley Keating," as he was familiarly called, who rejoiced

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 202

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, you're in a city with a long printing history. The Munster Journal was said to be the oldest journal in the province of Munster. Its proprietor was Mr. Andrew Welsh, ancestor of the respectable family of Welsh of Newtown House in county Clare, and a gentleman of enterprise and ability. Welsh also published the Magazine of Magazines, which appears to have been a reprint of Exshaw's London and Dublin Magazine with a Limerick title-page. The Munster Journal was succeeded about 1787 by the Limerick Journal, of which Mr. Edward Flinn was the proprietor. Flinn was a Catholic. His journal enjoyed the patronage of Lord Clare, to whom Flinn was agent, and it reaped a harvest by the publication of the Castle Proclamations. Flinn resided in Mary Street, opposite Quay Lane. Athlunkard Street had not been made for many years afterwards. His fellow citizens and neighbours in Mary Street included Mr. William Goggin, the great Chap Book and Ballad Printer, whose shop at the corner of Quay Lane was known by the sign of Shakespeare. Alderman Andrew Watson, the successor of Mr. John Ferrar in the proprietorship of the Limerick Chronicle, had his office and residence near the office of the Limerick Journal.

4. Elizabeth's 1582 charter grants sword and cap to Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1582

   Queen Elizabeth granted a charter to Limerick in 1582, bestowing both the sword of state and the 'hatte of mayntenance,' which had been refused in the reign of Henry VIII. Ferrar erroneously dated this event to 1575.

   Read the passage

   We will not follow the Deputy to Gal way, which he describes not flatteringly, neither shall we go through those still continued and apparently endless wars of the Desmonds and O'Briens, which fill so vast a space in the annals of these eventful times. During the Mayoralty of Roger Everard the Deputy arrived, as we have seen, in Limerick, and Ferrar, who is followed by Fitzgerald, erroneously states, on the authority of the Davis MSS. that it was in this year that the sword of state was carried before the Mayor, and that the Cap of maintenance was for the first time worn. The sword had been sought for in the reign of Henry VIII. but refused ; Elizabeth, however, in her charter, which she granted to Limerick in 1582, and not in 1575, not only bestowed the sword, but gave the "hatte of mayntenance" also. For this most important charter see Appendix.

   During Sir Henry Sidney's visit to Limerick he addressed a letter to the Lords of the Council in England, which supplies some interesting details, illustrating the state of the south of Ireland at this period. The letter is dated Limerick 27th of February, 1575-6, and after giving an account of his arrival in Waterford, after his tour in Ulster and Leinster in all which places he met with a very favourable reception, proceeds to describe his visit to Lord Power at Curraghmore, where he was entertained " with plenty and good order," and where he found the tenants in a condition which would be considered enviable at the present day, for though the soil is stated to be much worse than in the county Kilkenny, " yet his tenants made more of one acre of land than there was made of three acres in that country or was made in the Decies, the lordship near adjoining him on the other side ; and the reason was that he suffered no idlers in his county, nor the better sort to oppress each other."

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 59

   As the companion tells it

   As the road brings you through Limerick, there is a charter story from 1582. Queen Elizabeth granted the city a charter that year, bestowing both the sword of state and what the document calls the 'hatte of mayntenance.' The sword had been sought during the reign of Henry VIII, but it was refused then. Elizabeth went further than granting the sword alone. She gave the cap of maintenance as well. Ferrar, followed by Fitzgerald, got the date wrong. Relying on the Davis MSS, they placed it in 1575, during the mayoralty of Roger Everard, when the Deputy arrived in the city. But the charter came in 1582, not 1575. The Deputy's arrival and the granting of the charter were not the same event. During Sir Henry Sidney's visit, he wrote to the Lords of the Council in England. His letter was dated the 27th of February, 1575-6. He described his arrival in Waterford after touring Ulster and Leinster, where he had been well received. He wrote of visiting Lord Power at Curraghmore, where he was entertained, in his words, 'with plenty and good order.' He found the tenants there in an enviable condition. The soil, he said, was much worse than in county Kilkenny, 'yet his tenants made more of one acre of land than there was made of three acres in that country or was made in the Decies.' The reason, Sidney wrote, was that Lord Power suffered no idlers in his county, nor allowed the better sort to oppress each other.

5. Execution of Fr. Woulfe in Limerick, 1651

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1651

   In the same year (1651) and in the same city of Limerick, Fr. Woulfe, a Dominican Preacher General described as a venerable old man, suffered death for the faith during the Cromwellian occupation.

   Read the passage

   ' In the same year (1651) and in the same city, the R. A. P. Fr. Woulfe, Preacher General, a venerable oM man, suffered desth for our Saviour Christ — he had with great sanctity performed the duties of Prior in several priorates. Being long since become a confessor of Christ, during

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 100

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, the city holds a memory from 1651. In that year, under the Cromwellian occupation, Fr. Woulfe, a Dominican Preacher General and a venerable old man, suffered death for the faith. He had served as Prior in several priorates with great sanctity, and was long since a confessor of Christ.

6. Famine of 1744 and Lenten fast relaxation

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1744

   Owing to a terrible famine which prevailed in 1744, Dr. O'Keeffe and the other bishops of Ireland granted a relaxation to the people of the Lenten fast. This was a notable event in the diocese of Limerick during Bishop Lacy's episcopacy.

   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

   As you pass through Limerick, this city's church history in the 1740s turns on Bishop Lacy. He held the bishopric of Limerick and was also appointed administrator of the diocese of Kilfenora by Dr. Daly, bishop of that see, who remained at Tournay in France. Lacy conferred holy orders, and on the 23rd December 1738, priesthood, on the Reverend James White, compiler of White's manuscripts. He supplied his diocese with clergy by sending young students to foreign countries to study, where they received sacred orders and came home to the mission, which they generally discharged with distinguished fidelity. During his episcopacy the gentry ruled with an iron rod, irrespective of law or order. Thomas O'Dell, the principal man in the parish of Ballingarry, caused the Reverend Christopher Bermingham to flee to France, for no other reason than that O'Dell preferred the parish be given to another clergyman. In 1744 a terrible famine prevailed, and Dr. O'Keeffe and the other bishops of Ireland granted a relaxation to the people of the Lenten fast. Lacy saw religion revive in some respects. He surrendered the old parish chapel outside Thomond Gate, which was tumbling to decay. When a little more freedom was granted, the clergy took a small waste malt house in the Little Island and made it a parish chapel, until they were tolerated to build a better one, which came in 1749.

7. First fire engine made in Limerick for St. Mary's parish

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1814

   In August a new fire engine for St. Mary's parish was purchased by the inhabitants. It was made by Charles and Thomas Lee, smiths, and was the first ever made in Limerick, costing £40.

   Read the passage

   In this month a new fire engine for St. Mary's parish, was purchased by the inhabitants ; it was made by Charles and Thomas Lee, smiths, and was the first ever made in Limerick ; it coat £40, and the materials of the old engine, which was purchased in London, in 1768.

   The malt liquor so bad and debased, that what has been long sold as beer, scarcely possessed any of tlie qualities of that article, except those produced by chemical compounds. -

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 247

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, there is a small piece of its history worth knowing. In August 1814, the inhabitants of St. Mary's parish purchased a new fire engine. It was made by Charles and Thomas Lee, smiths, and was the first fire engine ever made in Limerick. It cost £40. The old engine it replaced had been bought in London in 1768.

8. First square-rigged vessel built in Limerick launched at Newtown

   Newtown · townland · Limerick · 1815

   On July 10th, 1815, the first square-rigged vessel ever built in Limerick was launched from the Dry Dock at Newtown, with a tonnage of 156 tons. The owners were Messrs. Mullock and Graham.

   Read the passage

   1815, July 10th. — The first square-rigged vessel ever built in Limerick, was launched from the Dry Dock, at Newtown, this day — tonnage 156 tons — Messrs. Mullock and Graham, owners.

   July 13th The City of Limerick Militia re-embodied — the same day the County Limerick

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 249

9. First street lamps erected in Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1696

   In 1696 street lamps were erected in Limerick for the first time, at the sole expense of Alderman Thomas Rose, who served as mayor in 1695. The Englishtown was said to be so well lit that one could pick a pin off the streets at night.

   Read the passage

   In 1694 there was a most severe frost, the ice was nine feet thick on the river Shannon, and the people walked over it with pleasure. In 1696 street lamps were, for tbe first time erected, at the sole expense of Alderman Thomas Eose. Rose was mayor in 1695— Eichard Sexton and George Eoche were sheriffs.^ " On the 7th of September, 1695,'^ says White,^ "there feU a shower which most people took to be bntter, and on the 20th of October there fell at Newcastle, about Limerick, and in many parts of the country, a shower of perfect butter, so that none could doubt of it, and the like was not heard of before in this country.''

   White makes this statement also :-—'' Thomas Smyth, Protestant bishop of Limerick signed the Protest in the House of Lords on the 31st of Sep^- tember, 1697, against an act passing to confirm the articles of Limerick." What a mockery—" confirm'' articles which had been shamefully broken.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 165

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, you are in a city that saw its first street lamps in 1696. Alderman Thomas Rose paid for them himself, every penny. He had been mayor the year before, in 1695, with Richard Sexton and George Roche as his sheriffs. The Englishtown was said to be so well lit that you could pick a pin off the streets at night. Two years before the lamps, in 1694, a severe frost had frozen the river Shannon with ice nine feet thick, and people walked across it for pleasure. Then on the 7th of September 1695, White records a shower that most people took to be butter, and on the 20th of October a shower of perfect butter fell at Newcastle, near Limerick, and across many parts of the country. The like had not been heard of before in this country.

10. Foundation of Franciscan convent, Henry Street, 1824

    Henry Street · street · Limerick · 1824–1825

    In September 1824 the foundation of the new Franciscan convent in Henry Street was laid with great ceremony and rejoicing. The church, a favourite with citizens, was the first object after St. Mary's Cathedral to meet the eye of a mariner approaching from the river.

    Read the passage

    The Franciscans continued in Newgate Lane until the year 182i\ early in which year they had to surrender the chapel and convent to Major Geo. P. Drew, the landlord, who " permitted' them to remove the fittings, etc., the lease having expired. The roof was soon removed, and the walls were speedily levelled with the ground. The convent in which the Franciscans had dwelt was not taken down. The Franciscans had a temporary chapel in Bank Place until 1825. In the commencement of September in the year 1824, the foundation of their new convent in Henry Street was laid with much ceremony and amid great rejoicing. By earnest and indefatigable labour it Avas brought to a speedy and most admirable completion in a comparatively short time. The church since it was opened has been a favourite one with the citizens, and over it are large apartments and halls for the Fathers, who reside there, but who have been making efforts to provide a more suitable residence, in which they are likely to succeed. Its situation is picturesque, and it is the first object after St. Mary's Cathedral that meets the eye of the mariner as he approaches the city from the river. The Prior in 1865 is the Very Rev. Father Hanrahan, O.S.F.

    The Conventual Franciscans had convents also at Askeaton, Ballinabraher (Friarstown) fr. plan-Gibbons, Alem. Cent. 13, granted to Robert Browne of Baltinglass. — Ware, vol. ii. p. 276. Ballinwillin, fr. granted to Robert Browne of Baltinglass. — Ibid. Island near Limerick, founded by Bourke, Baron of Castle Connell (Alem.) — Ibid. Franciscans of third order, Kilshane, fr. (quere if not mistaken for a Cistertian Convent at

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 377

    As the companion tells it

    Along this street, the Franciscans laid the foundation of their new convent at the beginning of September 1824, with much ceremony and great rejoicing. They had come from Newgate Lane, where they had to surrender their chapel and convent to Major George P. Drew, the landlord, the lease having expired. He permitted them to remove the fittings. The roof was soon taken off and the walls levelled with the ground, though the convent where the Franciscans had dwelt was not taken down. They had a temporary chapel in Bank Place until 1825. By earnest and indefatigable labour the new convent here on Henry Street was brought to a speedy and most admirable completion in a comparatively short time. Since it was opened, the church has been a favourite one with the citizens. Over it are large apartments and halls for the Fathers, who reside there but have been making efforts to provide a more suitable residence. Its situation is picturesque. It is the first object after St. Mary's Cathedral that meets the eye of the mariner as he approaches the city from the river. In 1865 the Prior is the Very Reverend Father Hanrahan, O.S.F. The Conventual Franciscans also had convents at Askeaton, Ballinabraher, Ballinwillin, and an island near Limerick.

11. Irish merchants return from Bristol after fall of Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1691

    After the reduction of Limerick in 1691, several Irish merchants who had fled to Bristol wrote to Sir Robert Southwell expressing fear of returning without the protection of Williamite forces, revealing the political tensions of the post-war period.

    Read the passage

    noisome dungeon j' while protection was given to the Newports, the Vanhomrighs, the Pelhams, the Trevors, the Guys of the day, the unfortunate natives as well as the descendants of the Auglo-Norman invaders, because they were Catholics, were hunted like wild beasts, or given a permissive existence — like that granted on the humble petition " of Lord George Howard, of Norfolk, then at Cloumel, to live in Dublin, he having oftered security for his peaceable demeanour ihere."'^ During the heat and terror of the war several distinguished natives of Ireland, as well of the Royalist as of the Williamite party, proceeded to England, where they remained until '^peace^' was proclaimed. A long and rather interesting letter was written to Sir Eobert Southwell, and signed by several of those who had gone to reside in Bristol — ^it is dated December 26, 1691, after the reduction of Limerick, when the writers were about to return to Ireland, " but were prevented by the news that the army of Ireland was about to be withdrawn for England, and the quiet of the country effected by native force ^^^ the impracticability of which, in their estimation, the letter enters into at much length. The writers state that they are Irish merchants; but they afford an extraordinary idea of their feelings and prejudices, by the fact that they feared to return to their country unless they came under " the protection^' of Orange bayonets ; and that they speedily succeeded to the fullest extent of their desires there can be no question. It was necessary not only to get up but to keep up alarms at all hazards, and in the teeth of the greatest improbabilities. While the House of Commons was granting enormous sums of money to greedy jobbers " to discharge debts and arrears on the civil list, confirming outlawries and attainders, recommending persons to offices in Ireland," " who merited the notice of the King for their zeal and service in the Protestant cause^"* — throwing sops to noisy placemen — and keeping up, for a purpose, the fear of a French invasion, rumours of conspiracies against William's hfe were quite general. In a letter of September 9th, 1697, Narcissus Marsh, the Anglican Bishop of DubUn, one of the Lords Justices of Ireland, writes :— that one Madden, an ex-officer in Jameses army, had discovered a plot of Toole and Bromfield — and Toole's purpose, he says, was to buy horses and shoot the King in his coach !* This was a mere delusion.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 163

    As the companion tells it

    Limerick, the city you are passing through. After the reduction of Limerick in 1691, several distinguished natives of Ireland, from both the Royalist and the Williamite parties, had gone to England and remained there until peace was proclaimed. On December 26, 1691, a long letter was written to Sir Robert Southwell and signed by several of those who had gone to reside in Bristol. They were Irish merchants, about to return to Ireland, but they were prevented by the news that the army of Ireland was about to be withdrawn for England. They feared the quiet of the country could not be maintained by native force alone, and the letter enters into the impracticability of that idea at much length. The writers revealed their feelings plainly: they feared to return to their country unless they came under, as the source says, the protection of Orange bayonets. Their desires were soon fulfilled. It was necessary not only to get up but to keep up alarms at all hazards, and in the teeth of the greatest improbabilities. The House of Commons was granting enormous sums of money to greedy jobbers to discharge debts and arrears on the civil list, confirming outlawries and attainders, and recommending persons to offices in Ireland who merited the notice of the King for their zeal and service in the Protestant cause. They kept up the fear of a French invasion, and rumours of conspiracies against William's life were general. In a letter of September 9, 1697, Narcissus Marsh, the Anglican Bishop of Dublin and one of the Lords Justices of Ireland, wrote that one Madden, an ex-officer in James's army, had discovered a plot of Toole and Bromfield, and that Toole's purpose was to buy horses and shoot the King in his coach. This was a mere delusion.

12. John Maunsell granted lands in Barony of Clanwilliam

    Clanwilliam · barony · Limerick · 1671–1685

    John Maunsell, who served as Captain Lieutenant of the Guard under Cromwell and was wounded at Naseby, obtained a large grant of lands in the Barony of Clanwilliam, County Limerick. He served as High Sheriff of Limerick in 1671 and died in 1685.

    Read the passage

    Thomas Maunsell, Captain, RN., served against the Armada, settled in Ireland, 1609, married Aphra, daughter of Sir William Crafford, of Mungium, Kent. He resided at Derryvillane till 1641, and fled thence to Gloucester, where he died. His son, John, was in 1641 a student of the Middle Temple ; he entered Cromwell's service as Captain Lieutenant of the Guard, was severely wounded at Nasehy, came to Ireland, where he obtained a large grant of lands in the Barony of Clanwilliam, County of Limerick. He was Higli Sheriff of Limerick, 1671, he died 1685 ; he married Mary, daughter of George Booth, of Cheshire, and left issue — Thomas Maunsell, of Cloverville : succeeded to the English estates of Thorpe Hall, High Sheriff, 1715, married Thomasine, daughter and coheir of Richard Stephens, LL.D., and had issue Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Maunsell, married Anne, daughter and co-heir with her sister Jane, Mrs. Pery, of William Twigge, Archdeacon of Limerick, and Diana, daughter and heir of Sir Drury Wray, and had issue. Colonel Thomas Maunsell, of Thorpe, died , and William

    Maunsell, Archdeacon of Kildare, who married Lucy, daughter and co-heir with her sister, Elizabeth, Mrs. Coote, of Philip Oliver, M.P., and had issue Colonel Thomas Maunsell, of Thorpe Malor, M.P., married Caroline, daughter of the Hon. W. Cockayne, and co-heir of Viscount Cullen, and had issue George, now of Thorpe Malor, married Theodosia, daughter of Sir John Palmer, Baronet, of Carlton, and had issue Cecil ; second, Maude, daughter of Honorable H. Tollemache.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 461

13. Killaloe town and church destroyed by Hugh O'Connor

    Killaloe · town · Clare

    Hugh O'Connor destroyed the town and church of Killaloe along with Kincora during the wars that ended Donogh's reign.

    Read the passage

    Donogh's deposition was now a proximate event. — Diarmid invaded Munster, once more burned Limerick and Emly, and defeated Donogh in a severe battle in the glen of Aherlow. Hugh O'Connor destroyed Kiucora, with the town and Church of KiUaloe ; and Turlogh and the Lagenians once more burned Limerick in the year 1063, and exacted hostages throughout Munster. At last being utterly defeated by Turlogh and the King of Leinster, at the foot of the Ardagh mountains, he abdicated the crown of Munster, thus transferring his royal honors to his nephew. In the hope of atoning for his sins he afterwards set out on a pilgrimage to Eome, where he died with every appearance of sincere penitence, in the Monastery of St. Stephen, in the year 1064. Some writers assert that Donogh not only left the croAvn and regaha of Ireland with the Pope but made him over his kingdom, an empty compliment, if it took place at aU, which is not probable, as it is not mentioned by any of the old annahsts. It is added by those who tell this story, that the crown was afterwards given to Henry the II. by Pope Adiian the Fourth after the Norman conquest.'^

    ' Annals of Four Masters.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 18

14. Killalough castle ruins defending Knockadoon

    Killalough · townland · Cork

    Killalough, which defended Knockadoon at the south, is now in a very ruinous state. A causeway fifteen feet broad led to a tower made of immense blocks of stone, the largest in any building of this kind in the country.

    Read the passage

    Killalough, which defended Knockadoon at the south, is now in a very ruinous state; the hill here joins the mainland by a narrow neck, on which a causeway fifteen feet broad had been raised, defended at the hill side by a fortified gate westward along the shore, and joins the tower." This Fitzgerald describes as fifteen feet high and eight thick, made up of immense blocks of stone. These stones are the largest that can be seen in any building of this kind in the country ; and within the ruins of the castle the walls are blackened with smoke, a? if it had been the dwelling of some persons within more recent years.

    Knocknafrion, or Mass Hill, is near Killalough.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 426

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Killalough are the ruins of a castle that once defended Knockadoon at the south. It is in a very ruinous state now. The hill here joins the mainland by a narrow neck, and on it a causeway fifteen feet broad was raised, defended at the hill side by a fortified gate. Fitzgerald describes a tower fifteen feet high and eight thick, built of immense blocks of stone. These stones, he says, are the largest you can see in any building of this kind in the country. Within the ruins the walls are blackened with smoke, as if the castle had been the dwelling of some persons in more recent years.

15. Kilmallock Dominican convent history written by O'Heyne

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick

    Father John O'Heyne, said to have been a native of Kilmallock, wrote a history of the Dominican convent at Kilmallock in a rare Latin work called the Chronological Epilogue.

    Read the passage

    Father John O'Heyne, who is frequently quoted by de Burgo, gives the history of the celebrated Convent of the Dominicans of Limerick, and de Burgo supplements, up to his own time, the annals which O'Heyne began, but died before he could have finished. O'Heyne also wrote the history of the convent of the same illustrious order at Kilmallock. The work is written in Latin, and is called " O'Heyne's Chronological Epilogue"; it is of extreme rarity, and for the extracts from it, in reference to the Dominican Convents of Limerick and Kilmallock, we are indebted to the Very Rev. Dr. Carbery, Prior of St. Saviour's, Limerick, who obtained them from the only copy of the book known to be in Ireland, namely, that in the convent at Esker, County Galway. O'Heyne is said to have been a native of Kilmallock. Having given a succinct account of the foundation of the convent, O'Heyne proceeds to enumerate and give a short history of the many distinguished men who belonged to it from time to time, and among whom, in the first and most distinguished place, stands the Martyr-Bishop of Emly, the great Terence Albert O'Brien of Arragh. Father James Wolfe, the resolute and determined opponent of Cromwell, who was taken while he was celebrating mass, and who was executed in the same year, viz., 1651, in which the sainted Bishop of Emly met his death, was also a member of the same convent. He then tells us of Father Cornelius O'Heyne, who studied in the College of Minerva at Rome, and taught theology for several years in the College of the Dominicans at Lisbon, and was rector of this convent, came to Ireland for subjects for the convent in Lisbon and died there ; of another O'Heyne; of Father John de Burgo, or Burke, who was prior in 1667 ; of

    ' De Burgo, Eih. Dom., p. 221. ^ Ware, vol. ii. p. 727. ^ River O'Gearna.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 373

16. Kincora and Killaloe destroyed by Hugh O'Connor

    near Kincora · monument · Clare

    Hugh O'Connor destroyed Kincora along with the town and church of Killaloe during the conflicts leading to Donogh's abdication.

    Read the passage

    Donogh's deposition was now a proximate event. — Diarmid invaded Munster, once more burned Limerick and Emly, and defeated Donogh in a severe battle in the glen of Aherlow. Hugh O'Connor destroyed Kiucora, with the town and Church of KiUaloe ; and Turlogh and the Lagenians once more burned Limerick in the year 1063, and exacted hostages throughout Munster. At last being utterly defeated by Turlogh and the King of Leinster, at the foot of the Ardagh mountains, he abdicated the crown of Munster, thus transferring his royal honors to his nephew. In the hope of atoning for his sins he afterwards set out on a pilgrimage to Eome, where he died with every appearance of sincere penitence, in the Monastery of St. Stephen, in the year 1064. Some writers assert that Donogh not only left the croAvn and regaha of Ireland with the Pope but made him over his kingdom, an empty compliment, if it took place at aU, which is not probable, as it is not mentioned by any of the old annahsts. It is added by those who tell this story, that the crown was afterwards given to Henry the II. by Pope Adiian the Fourth after the Norman conquest.'^

    ' Annals of Four Masters.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 18

17. King James II grants charter constituting new Corporation

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1687–1689

    King James II granted a charter to Limerick which recited a judgment against the Corporation in the Exchequer and constituted a new self-elected corporate body removable by the Lord Lieutenant and Privy Council. Its operation was limited to his comparatively short reign.

    Read the passage

    King James also manifested his attention to Limerick by the grant of a charter, which is on record (Eot. Pat. 4 Jac. II. p .2, m. 1.) This charter recites a judgment against the Corporation in the Exchequer, and professes to constitute a new Corporate body. Its provisions are very extensive ; but may be briefly described as creating a self-elected municipality, removable by the Lord Lieutenant and Privy Council. Its operation was limited to the comparatively short reign of the unfortunate Kiug.^

    In King Jameses ParHament sixty-eight of the gentry of the county and city of Limerick were attainted of high treason ; and it may be added that

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 149

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Limerick now. In 1687, King James the Second granted the city a charter, recorded in the Patent Rolls of his fourth year. The charter recited a judgment against the Corporation in the Exchequer and constituted a new corporate body. Its provisions were extensive. They created a self-elected municipality, removable by the Lord Lieutenant and Privy Council. Its operation was limited to the comparatively short reign of the unfortunate king. In King James's Parliament, 68 of the gentry of the county and city of Limerick were attainted of high treason.

18. King's Island rights claim and public promenade

    King's Island · townland · Limerick · 1843

    In June 1843, the Corporation's law agent reported on his interview with the Earl of Lincoln regarding the King's Island and the citizens' claims under Queen Elizabeth's charter. The Commissioners declined to restore legal rights but agreed to fund an embankment and allow public recreation, resulting in a noble public promenade.

    Read the passage

    ranted in assenting to a restoration of tlie claim. Lord Lincoln at the same time stated that the Commissioners were willing to afford the citizens an opportunity of recreation in a small portion of the island, and tliat they were prepared to apply to the Treasury for a certain sum of money for an embankment, provided the Corporation would make a suitable passage or road thereto. This was ultimately agreed to, and a noble public promenade was made.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to King's Island, in June 1843, the Corporation's law agent reported on his interview with the Earl of Lincoln. The Commissioners would not restore the citizens' legal rights under Queen Elizabeth's charter. But Lord Lincoln said they were willing to give the citizens recreation in a small portion of the island, and would apply to the Treasury for money for an embankment, provided the Corporation made a suitable road to it. This was agreed, and a noble public promenade was made.

19. Letter from O'Molony to the Bishop of Clogher

    near Clogher · town · Tyrone · 1689

    An important letter from Dr. O'Molony to Bishop Tyrrell of Clogher, dated 6th March 1689, is noted in King's State of the Protestants of Ireland as bearing no subscription.

    Read the passage

    Pages 612, 617 — A question having arisen, we may state that the Stuart Papers, in the Bodleian Library, Oxford, which make mention of Dr. O'Molony, were written by the Nairnes, secretaries to King James II., and his son the Chevalier. The original letter book is now in Oxford. At one time it was in the Scots College, Paris, and was thought to have perished with other valuable papers at the time of the Revolution, whereas Carte and Mackintosh (the translator of Ossian) and compiler of some papers on the reign of Charles II., James IL, and William III., had previously got tliem by some stratagem. Unquestionably Dr. O'Molony was appointed Bishop of Limerick and administrator of Killaloe. his old see, at the instance of James II. ; and by referring to O'lienehun's Collections, pp. 296-7, we see him paid very bad compliments in a statement of tlie king's on the authority of one of tUp Stuart Papers. There is some mistake in tlie list given in (J'Reiichan, p. 295, as to the bishops stopping at St. Germains, 31st December, 1691 (on the authority of the Theineir M SS.), 'ior our bishop is called James instead of John. Unfortunately, the important letter of Dr.* O'Molony to Bishop Tyrrell of Clogher, dated 6th March, 1689, in King's State of the Protestants of Ireland, bears no subscription.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 456

20. Limerick Corporation awards freedom at Adare Manor

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1830

    In October 1830, the Corporation of Limerick proceeded to Adare Manor, headed by the Mayor, to address the Duke of Northumberland during his visit to Lord Dunraven. The freedom of the city was unanimously awarded to his Excellency and to Sir Edward Blakeney and General Sir Charles Doyle.

    Read the passage

    At Adare, in October, 1830/ the Duke of Northumberland, then on a visit to Lord Dunraven, was addressed by the Corporation, who proceeded to Adare Manor, headed by the Mayor, when the freedom of the city was] unanimously awarded to his Excellency, as also to Sir Edward BlakeneyJ General Sir Charles Doyle, &c. Early in 1831, the Corporation addressed! the Marquis of Anglesea on his accession to the Viceroyalty.

    In the latter part of the year 1833, an interesting event occurred which ought not to be omitted : an address, numerously and respectably signed, was at this time forwarded to Thomas Moore, Esq., the National Bard,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 276

21. Limerick Custom House burned, 1741

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1741

    In 1741 the Custom House of Limerick was burned, compounding the city's difficulties. The Corporation's exactions and tolls caused great indignation among all classes while the city remained in a fearfully neglected condition.

    Read the passage

    In this year Mr. Whitefield arrived in Limerick from America, where he first preached the new doctrines of Methodism.' He reached Limerick from Fort Fergus, at two o'clock, p. m., and describes the city in his Journal as a large garrison town, with a Cathedral in it — the roads better than he had seen them on his journey, " but the people much more subtle and designing."* He saw many beggars, which he imputes to the want of Parish Provision. (!) He waited on Dr. Buscough, the Protestant Bishop, " preached in the Cathedral to a very numerous audience, who seemed universally affected," refused an invitation from the Mayor, having been preengaged by the Bishop, and left Limerick next day rather satisfied with his visit.^ Whitefield, of course, saw but the outside of things, for a epedemic sickness prevailed in the city, and continued to strike down its victims during 1740 and 1741, when the Mayor, Joseph Ptoche, Esq., and several influential citizens, were attacked by the disease, and lost their lives. In this year, too, (1741) the Custom House of Limerick was burned ; and as if to destroy whatever trafiic remained in the city, and to injure the comitry as much as possible, the harpies of the Corporation again commenced operations, and caused greater indignation among the highest as well as among the poorest classes, than had been at any previous period experienced or expressed. While they plundered, the city was in a fearfully neglected condition, and the outcry against them was limited to no party or persuasion.^

    1 The General Evening Post (London), from Tuesday, June 18th, to Thursday, June 20th, 1740. Page 1, col. 2.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 189

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries a story from 1741, a year when its troubles compounded one upon another. In that year the Custom House of Limerick was burned, destroying whatever traffic remained in the city. An epidemic sickness had been striking down its victims through 1740 and 1741. The Mayor, Joseph Ptoche, and several influential citizens were among those who lost their lives to the disease. That same year, Mr. Whitefield arrived in Limerick from America, where he had first preached the new doctrines of Methodism. He reached the city from Fort Fergus at two in the afternoon, and described it in his Journal as a large garrison town with a Cathedral in it. He found the roads better than he had seen them on his journey, but the people, he said, were "much more subtle and designing." He saw many beggars, which he put down to the want of Parish Provision. He waited on Dr. Buscough, the Protestant Bishop, preached in the Cathedral to a very numerous audience who seemed universally affected, refused an invitation from the Mayor because he had been pre-engaged by the Bishop, and left the next day rather satisfied with his visit. Whitefield saw only the outside of things. While the Corporation's harpies plundered, the outcry against them came from no single party. It crossed every class, and the city remained in a fearfully neglected condition.

22. Limerick garrison weakened by removal of 71st Regiment

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1814

    On January 25th, the garrison was so weak after the removal of the 71st Regiment that dragoons were mounted with infantry at several guards; the 13th dragoons did dismounted duty and drummers and filers of the 84th Regiment were put on guard duty.

    Read the passage

    Jan. 25th. — The garrison so weak by the removal of the 71st Regiment, that dragoons were mounted with the infantry in the several guards — the 13th dragoons doing duty dismounted, and the succeeding day the drummers and filers of the 84th Regiment, able to bear arms, put n guard duty.

    Jan. 29th. — The mail coach from Dublin arrived in Limerick for the first time since llth inst. being impeded by the snow, and severity of the weather.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 246

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, in January 1814 the garrison here was so weak after the 71st Regiment was removed that dragoons had to be mounted with infantry at several guards. The 13th dragoons did dismounted duty, and the drummers and filers of the 84th Regiment were put on guard duty. Four days later, on January 29th, the mail coach from Dublin arrived for the first time since the 11th, held up by snow and the severity of the weather.

23. Limerick Steam Ship Company established 1850

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1850–1858

    In 1850, when steam vessels became necessary to supersede sailing packets, the Russells took a leading part in establishing the Steam Ship Company at Limerick. In 1858, during railway competition and depression, they bought up shaken shareholders' shares to restore the line.

    Read the passage

    Abbey River ; the large mills at Corbally, just above the last regulating weir on the Shannon Plassy Mills, farther up the river ; Garryowen Mills, a large steam concern ; and extensive mills at Askeaton, situate several miles below the city, one of which is also driven by steam. These concerns ^ive large employment to the people, and largely contribute to tlie commerce of the port, both by imports of grain, coals, etc., and by exports of flour and other commodities. A great portion of this is done by the sailing vessels of the firm, and by the line of steamers which they have largely contributed to maintain. The public benefits at all times resulting from these enterprises, need not be enlarged upon ; but the advantage to the community was especially found, during the disastrous years of the famine, when the Messrs. Russell were enabled to provide breadstufFs to an enormous and unprecedented extent for the consumption of the neiglibouring unions, then dependent on almost instant supplies to prevent famine taking possession inside the workhouses. At one period, in 18.58, it was in contemplation by the guardians to apply for advances from the imjjerial treasury, in anticipation of the poor rates, for payment of the supplies provided, which their funds were unable to meet. Before the era of steam navigation the English-and Scotch trade with the port was carried on by a line of sailing packets, of which Messrs. Russell werelirge proprietors ; but in 1850, when steam vessels became necessary to supersede the liners, they did not hesitate to take a very leading part in cstal)lishing the Steam Ship Company.* In 1858, when the Company Avas suffering from the opposition of railway competition, and the general depression of Irish public enterprise, Messrs. Russell took the shares of those whose confidence was shaken, and devoted themselves largely to restore the line. The success of these efforts is seen in the prosperity of the undertaking now, and the river vessels of larger size and power added to the fleet, which now can bnast of having as fine vessels of their class as any port of Great Britain or Ireland. In addition to ample accommodation for the general import and export trade of the city, this line is now enaijled to provide large supplies of coals, and thus keep a wholesome clieck on the enormous prices and extreme fluctuations which always existed when the supply of coals was entirely dependent on sailing vessels. In 1851, Messrs. Russell commenced the erection of Lansdowne flax spinning and weaving factories at North Strand, and such was the energy devoted to this entirely new branch of manufacture here by them, that the buildings and machinery of the spinning factory were erected and started in October, 1853, and shortly afterwards the power loom factory was erected, giving further large employment in the manufacture of the yarns into lines. These fine, well proportio:!ed buildings, all built of dressed limestone, are, in a mere architectural sense, an ornament to the city, and the advantages of the steady employment both factories have since given to large numbers, chiefly of the younger portion of the population, otherwise utterly unprovided with well-paid work, are not easily over-estimated. The firm has regularly engaged, in all their various enterprises, about 2,000 people. The founder of the firm, the late JNIr. John Norris Russell, died at a ripe old age in 1859, having lived to see his sons successfully carry into operation all the enterprises, which he with them had originated. His eldest son, Mr. Francis William Russell, was returned one of the members for the city in 1 852, and has since worthily represented it in the House of Commons. The contributions of the firm to the local charities, without distiuctioa of creed or party, have always been in liberal keeping with their other acts.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 265

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are moving through a port city whose commercial life was shaped by one family above all. Before the era of steam navigation, the English and Scotch trade with the port was carried on by a line of sailing packets, of which Messrs. Russell were large proprietors. But in 1850, when steam vessels became necessary to supersede the liners, they did not hesitate to take a very leading part in establishing the Steam Ship Company. In 1858, when the company was suffering from the opposition of railway competition and the general depression of Irish public enterprise, Messrs. Russell took the shares of those whose confidence was shaken, and devoted themselves largely to restore the line. The success of those efforts could be seen in the prosperity of the undertaking, with river vessels of larger size and power added to the fleet, boasting as fine vessels of their class as any port in Great Britain or Ireland. The line also provided large supplies of coals, keeping a wholesome check on the enormous prices and extreme fluctuations that always existed when the supply of coals was entirely dependent on sailing vessels. The Russells' contributions to Limerick went further. During the disastrous years of the famine, they were enabled to provide breadstuffs to an enormous and unprecedented extent for the neighbouring unions, then dependent on almost instant supplies to prevent famine taking possession inside the workhouses. At one period, in 1858, it was in contemplation by the guardians to apply for advances from the imperial treasury, in anticipation of the poor rates, for payment of the supplies their funds were unable to meet. The founder of the firm, the late Mr. John Norris Russell, died at a ripe old age in 1859, having lived to see his sons successfully carry into operation all the enterprises he had originated with them. The firm regularly engaged about 2,000 people across their various enterprises.

24. Lios Cnoc Luinga — moat of Knocklong

    Knocklong · town · Limerick

    A moat or ring-fort on the plain near Knocklong, called Lios Cnoc Luinga. It has no rampart but is surrounded by a deep fosse, with an area of about fifty-six feet diameter and the mound about twenty feet high from bottom to fosse. The entrance gap is at the south-east.

    Read the passage

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

    Passing on to the north, we saw on the same townland the remains of a square fort : about two-thirds of it was ruined Adjoining the square fort is a round moat, to the west. The mound is thirteen feet high, its sides were luxuriant with numerous hawthorns. The area twenty paces diameter, or fifty-six feet. It has a deep fosse ; a dog was swallowed up in the middle area, and never came back (a cave?). Beyond these, we were shown another, the moat or lios of Ballycahill, which is planted. The area measures thirty-three paces, or ninety feet.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 433

25. Lord Comhermere inspects troops at New Barracks, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1821

    Lord Comhermere, Commander-in-Chief of the Forces in Ireland, arrived in Limerick on 9 September and inspected the troops in garrison on the parade of the New Barracks. He then left for Rockbarton, the residence of Chief Baron O'Grady.

    Read the passage

    Lord Comhermere, Commander-in-Chief of the Forces in Ireland, arrived in Limerick on the 9th of September, and inspected the troops in garrison on the parade of the New Barracks.^ Immediately after, his Lordship left Limerick for Rockbarton, the residence of the Chief Baron O'Grady.

    1 These Barracks were built in 1798, and occupy about a square mile. They are capable of containing about 1000 men, including officers' quarters. They are on an elevation to the south-west of the city. In 1843 a district Military Prison was added, which in 1865 coutams 87 prisoners, and a staff consisting of chief warder and seven warders and servants. The prison consists of three corridors and fifty-nine cells.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 263

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, in 1821 on the 9th of September Lord Comhermere, Commander-in-Chief of the Forces in Ireland, arrived here and inspected the troops in garrison on the parade of the New Barracks. Immediately after, his Lordship left Limerick for Rockbarton, the residence of the Chief Baron O'Grady.

26. Major Stoddart killed on Castle Connell road

    Castle Connell · castle · Limerick · 1814

    On June 12th, Major Stoddart of the 10th Enniskillen Dragoons was killed by a fall over his horse's head on the Castle Connell road. He was interred at St. Munchin's church with great honour, having come to Limerick for a general court martial.

    Read the passage

    June 12th Major Stoddart, of the 10th Enniskillen Dragoons, killed by a fall over his horse s

    head on the Castle Connell road—was interred at St. Munchin's church with great honor. He had come to Limerick to assist at a general Court Martial, of which he was judge.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 246

    As the companion tells it

    On the road here at Castle Connell, on the 12th of June, 1814, Major Stoddart of the 10th Enniskillen Dragoons was killed by a fall over his horse's head. He had come to Limerick to assist at a general court martial, of which he was judge. He was interred at St. Munchin's church with great honour.

27. Market moved from outside John's Gate into city, 1673

    Mungret Street · street · Limerick · 1673–1801

    The market, which had been held outside John's Gate since the surrender of the city to Ireton, was removed into the city in 1673. It was located at the eastern extremity of Mungret Street and was taken down in October 1801.

    Read the passage

    The Market, which ever since the surrender of the city to Ireton had been held outside John's Gate, was this year removed into the city. This market was at the Eastern extremity of Mungret-street, and was taken down in October, ISOl.^

    So many proclamations were issued out in 1678 against the Catholics, and so many priests and friars were transported to France and Spain, that any thing hke it was never known before. It was this year that the Eev. Jaspar White, Parish Priest of St. John's, was taken at the altar by a lieutenant of foot, in his vestments, whilst saying mass, and was in that posture brought through the streets to the guard-house, where he was kept two hours, until he was released by the Governor, Sir WiUiam^ King. To increase the feehng against the Cathohcs, they reported that King Charles was '' poisoned by the papists." The continued persecutions of the Catholics in England and Ireland made many of them fly the kingdom, and seek shelter in France and Spain, and many fled to Maryland.*

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 117

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on Mungret Street, at its eastern end, a market stood for over a century. It had been held outside John's Gate ever since the surrender of the city to Ireton, and in 1673 it was removed into the city and placed here. It stayed until October 1801, when it was taken down. A few years after the market moved, in 1678, proclamations were issued against the Catholics, and priests and friars were transported to France and Spain in numbers not seen before. The Reverend Jaspar White, parish priest of St. John's, was taken at the altar by a lieutenant of foot, in his vestments, while saying mass. He was brought through the streets in that posture to the guard-house, where he was kept for two hours until the Governor, Sir William King, released him. To increase the feeling against the Catholics, it was reported that King Charles was "poisoned by the papists." Many Catholics fled the kingdom for France and Spain, and many fled to Maryland.

28. Martin Arthur's marble peristyle at St Saviour's Dominican church

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Martin Arthur, described as wealthy and powerful, built a magnificent marble peristyle for the Church of St. Saviour, the Dominican church in Limerick. He died around 1362 at approximately 66 years of age.

    Read the passage

    1326 — of John, who distinguished himself highly as mayor, in A.D. 1340, and who died about A.D. 1352, aged about 64 — of Martin, who was wealthy and powerful, and who built a magnificent peristyle of marble to the Church of St. Saviour (the Dominican), and who died about the year A.D. 1362, aged QG years — of Thomas, who was raised to the Episcopacy, by Bull of Pope Boniface, dated at Rome, 2nd of April, A.D. 1400— of William and Richard, the former of whom died 4th of March, A.D. 1483, and the latter in A.D. 1484. The Latin metre proceeds at further length in reference to this family, and as a specimen of the matter and manner of this curious family idyll, we subjoin the following which we have translated : —

    Thomas, whom the Mayor's retinue distinguish, had raised the pinnacles of your ancient house. As Mayor, he fortified Limerick where it extends to the south, with lofty tower walls ; at his expense, was built to the Blessed Virgin, the elaborate fa9ade of the choir, of lofty marble. Hence, it bears the escutcheon of the family of Arthur, on the outward door, and near it a work is distinguished, with the pedigree of his wife: — she was Johanna Muryagh, ancestrally descended from Cork, the noble heiress of her sires. To her, being his kinswoman, Thomas, surnamed Kildare, gave at Rebog, meadows, lands, tillage fields and houses. These lands acquired by the valor and might of ancestors, you presently get O'Nicholas,* and many

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 206

    As the companion tells it

    As the road carries you through Limerick, you are passing near the Church of St Saviour, the Dominican church. Martin Arthur, a wealthy and powerful man, built a magnificent peristyle of marble for this church. He died about the year 1362, aged about 66 years. The Arthur family shaped the city across generations. John Arthur distinguished himself as mayor in 1340 and died about 1352, aged about 64. Thomas was raised to the episcopacy by a bull of Pope Boniface, dated at Rome, the 2nd of April 1400. A Latin family metre says of Thomas that as mayor he fortified Limerick where it extends to the south, with lofty tower walls. At his expense was built to the Blessed Virgin the elaborate facade of the choir, of lofty marble. The choir bears the escutcheon of the Arthur family on the outward door, and near it a work is distinguished with the pedigree of his wife. She was Johanna Muryagh, ancestrally descended from Cork, the noble heiress of her sires. The metre says he "had raised the pinnacles of your ancient house." Thomas, surnamed Kildare, gave at Rebog meadows, lands, tillage fields and houses to Johanna, being his kinswoman. William died the 4th of March 1483, and Richard died in 1484.

29. Mayor Gribble reduces herring tax at Scattery Island

    Scattery Island · townland · Clare · 1684

    In 1684, Mayor William Gribble went to Scattery Island to exercise the city's jurisdiction over herring boats, which were taxed at 1000 herrings and 1000 oysters per boat. He reduced this exorbitant tax to 500 of each.

    Read the passage

    On the 3rd of November, 1683, the greatest frost that had ever been previously known in Ireland began, and it continued until the 9th of February ; the frost was seven or eight feet thick on the river Shannon ; all the lakes and rivers of Ireland were in like manner frozen ; men, women, cattle and carriages went over the rivers on the ice; people frequently walked on it from the King's Island to Parteen. In the following year William Gribble being mayor, he went to Scattery Island, to exercise his jurisdiction among the herring boats for the city duties, which were 1000 herrings and 1000 oysters out of each boat (a most exorbitant tax). This he reduced to 500 a piece.®

    The death of King Charles II. occurred in London on the 6th of February, 1684; he was a prince who in his exile acknowledged great obligations to the Irish ; on his accession to the throne the Irish reasonably expected to be restored to their estates, which they forfeited for fighting for him and his father, but he followed the pernicious advices of Clarendon, viz. to make friends of his enemies by gratifying them, and that he could always make sure of his old friends. Adopting this advice he left the Cromwellians in

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 118

30. Meyler FitzHenry's inquisition lists churches in Limerick city

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1201

    An inquisition by Meyler FitzHenry in 1201 recorded the churches existing in the city of Limerick at that time: St. Munchin's, St. Bridget's, St. John's, St. Peter's, St. Martin's, St. Michael's, St. Mary Rotundus, and St. Nicholas's. The inquisition also investigated the property of the Church of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    The deed by wliicli lie constituted tlie dignitaries and canons was witnessed by the Lord Archbishop of" Cashel, by the Lord Bishops of Cork, Cloyne, Ross, Ardfert, Emly, Kilfenora, and Waterford, and three abbots, viz., tlie Abbot of Maggio, the Abbot of Suirey, the Abbot of Furness, the Archdeacons of Waterford, Killaloe, and Magfenin ; the Priors of the Monasteries of St. Catherine and St. Edmond, and the Dean of CasheL' In page 114 of the Black Book is the confirmation of the act of Bishop Donat, made by a successor, Edmund, Bishop of Limerick, but it bears no date. In the time of Donat, who died a.d. 1207, the ancient see of Inniscathay was united to Limerick. King John showed the greatest anxiety to conciHate the bishop and clergy of Limerick, not only by making restitution, but by conceding and confirming by royal charter further grants to the Church. The king employed Bishop Donat much in his affairs in Ireland, and he became very dear to him. On the 13th July, in the eighteenth year of his reign, John granted ten plough lauds in ierris de Omayle, or, as it is in another place stated, de terris de Omatjle, and in both places styled ^^prope Mungarett".^ King John continued to interfere with the appointment of the bishops. We find that in 1207, GeofFry, rector of Dungarvan, was strongly recommended by him to the dean and chapter of Limerick. The king wrote to Meyler Fitzhenry, Lord Justice of Ireland, who made an inquisition respecting the property of the church of Limerick,^ with instructions to procure GeofFry to be elected bishop. There is little doubt that the royal missive was complied with.'' By a MS. in the margin of Sir James Ware's original Latin manuscript, mention is made that Geoffry was Bishop of Limerick in 1217. (White's J\ISS.) By Alyler FitzHenry's inquisition (1201) it appears that the churches in the city of Limerick at the time were St. Munchin's, St. Bridget's, St. John's, St. Peter's, St. Martin's, St. Michael's, St. Mary Rotundus (supposed to be St. Mary Maijdalen's), and St. Nicholas's. Edmund, the successor of GeofFry, sat but a short time, having died in 1222. Hubert de Burgo, who had been Prior of the Monastery of St. Edmund king and martyr, at Athassell, county Tippcrary, which was founded by his relative William de Burgh, about a.d. 1200, was the nex bishop in succession to Edmund. He was consecrated in 1222. He had been deprived of the temporalities of his see, but the king restored them to him on the lltli March, 1222. (English style.) Hubert was a great benefactor to the cathedral, and its canons and vicars-choral. He built the College of the Minor Canons, north of the cathedral. He augmented the number of prebends. He granted the church of St. Mary of Iniskesty to the Abbey of the Blessed Virgin at Keynsham, in Somersetshire, in England; and dying on the 4th of September, 1250, he was buried in the Monastery of the Dominican Fathers at Limerick. A little before his death, according to Sir James Ware, the bishops of Ireland had formed

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 320

31. Monabraher lands leased to John Wight at nominal rent

    Monabraher · townland · Limerick · 1747–1748

    The lands of Monabraher near Limerick, containing 87 acres plus the Spur of about three acres, were leased to John Wight at £5 15s. per annum. Sixteen acres alone later produced £100 per annum, showing the nominal character of the original rent.

    Read the passage

    • The lands of IMonabraher near Limeriok, and which were le.Tscd at £5 15s. a year, contain 87 acres, besides what is called Spur, about three acres. Sixteen acres alone were set for a short period bv tlie representatives of i^Ir. Wight at iilUO jjer annum ; seven acres more produced £100. In 182U Jlr. Wight Seymour, Solicitor, offered the property to Daniel Gabbett, Esq. for £7000.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 192

32. Murtagh O'Brien buried in Killaloe Cathedral

    Killaloe · town · Clare · 1119

    Murtagh O'Brien died in 1119 and was buried in the cathedral of Killaloe, which became the residence of the descendants of Brian Boru from the donation of Cashel to the Anglo-Norman invasion.

    Read the passage

    tlic plains of CoBha iu Tyrone,' on wliicli occasion the royal tent and marly Valuable jewels were captured.''^ The following years are chiefly occupied with resultless campaigns between Murtagh and Macloughlin, and the interposition of the clergy in bringing about temporary pacifications. In 1114, say the amials/ " a great fit of sickness attacked Murtagh O'Brien, so that he became a living skeleton, and resigned his kingdom; and Diarmuid (his brother) assumed the kingdom of Munster after him without pennission/^ During Murtagh^s absence in Leinster, Thomond was invaded by Torlogh O'Connor, king of Connaught, who plundered the country as far as Limerick, and carried off spoil and prisoners. On this occasion Donald O'Brien, son of Teige, was slain while defending his country against the invaders. In the second year after also, 1116, Torlogh O'Connor again invaded Thomond, and advancing Avithout resistance, demolished Kincora as well as the fort of Boromha, which had been erected by Brian Boru — an insult which the Dalcassians vainly attempted to avenge under Dermod, brother of Murtagh O'Brien, who led an army into Connaught, but was repulsed and obliged to make a precipitate retreat. In 1117, Thomond was again invaded by the forces of Connaught, commanded by Brian, son of Morrogh O'Elaherty, and the son of Cathal O'Connor, who defeated the Munster troops first at Leacan in West Thomond, and afterwards at Latteragh in Ormond, with still greater loss. The death of Dermod O'Brien was followed in a year by that of his brother Murtagh. Tliis event took place in 1119, and this eminent prince, whose character ranked so high in his lifetime that he was often consulted by the king of England, Henry I., was buried in the cathedral of Killaloe, which, from the time of the donation of Cashel to the Church, to the period of the Anglo-Norman invasion, became the residence of the descendants of the illustrious Brian Boru.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 21

33. New Castle House as King William's quarters

    Newcastle · town · Limerick · 1690

    New Castle House, situated about a thousand yards north of the Standard Pillar, is asserted to be where King William spent some of his time during the siege of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    In this parish of Singland, or St. Patrick's, there are some remarkable relics of the siege ; one is "this Standard Pillar" of King William (so called), and is pointed out by the inhabitants as the pillar on which the Royal Ensign of William was raised during the siege of 1600. It is on the high road which leads to Singland House, and is sometimes called " the Pillar " simph- by the people ; but every one in the parish, or at least in that portion of it, in which the pillar may be seen, tells it was there the King had his standard, as it was in the same spot, most likely, be had liis tent, and was encompassed by his staff. It is built of "ashlar" masonry, thirteen feet high and about three feet in diameter; the stones are rather large, and in most instances they are roughly chissled ; it is situated on a rise in tlie road, about 100 yards from Singland House. A short wall or butress is built up against it to the N.W,, and appears to be contemporaneous ia structure with the pillar itself ;a few cabins to the S.E. are just close up by the pillar on that side, and even the children there say that the pillar had something to do with " the war." About a thousand yards distance to the N., in a direct line, is New Castle House, in which it is asserted King William spent some of his time during the siege. The other object here of interest connected with the siege is " King William's Well,'* which is about 100 yards from the pillar, and in a Held about 50 yards from the high road, and nearly opposite Singland House, on the other side of the road. A stream of pure water runs to the road from tlie well, and joins another stream from the well of Shesharee, which is some distance off, on another road. King William's ■well is deep, but covered with a thick coating of leaves and greenish, weedy, deposit, which conceal its waters from the view — at least so it was on the beautiful evening I visited the locality. Tradition says that a large flag or standard lies buried in a field near the well. There are other evidences hereabouts, that it was the site of a camp ; and the well is said to have supplied

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 129

34. New Church chapel of ease and castle attributed to Bouchier

    near Lough Gur · lake or lakes · Limerick

    Fitzgerald stated the castle and the chapel of ease called New Church on the side of the lake were built during Elizabeth's reign by Sir George Bouchier. The style of the chapel refutes the idea, as it was built by Catholic founders.

    Read the passage

    Fitzgerald' says, with some ignorance of the obvious evidence to the contrary afforded by the style of the castle, that it is supposed to have been built during the reign of Elizabeth by Sir George Bouchier, son to the second Earl of Bath, who, he states, built the chapel of ease called New Church on the side of this lake. The style of this chapel refutes the idea, and it was also built by Catholic founders. Carrigcolour, or Pigeon Rock, is the topmost eminence of Knockadoon. Eagles had nests here formerly, but none are now to be seen.

    Killalough, which defended Knockadoon at the south, is now in a very ruinous state; the hill here joins the mainland by a narrow neck, on which a causeway fifteen feet broad had been raised, defended at the hill side by a fortified gate westward along the shore, and joins the tower." This Fitzgerald describes as fifteen feet high and eight thick, made up of immense blocks of stone. These stones are the largest that can be seen in any building of this kind in the country ; and within the ruins of the castle the walls are blackened with smoke, a? if it had been the dwelling of some persons within more recent years.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 426

35. New Rules imposed on Limerick Corporation, 1671

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1671

    A proclamation of New Rules for the government of the Corporation of Limerick was issued in February 1671, requiring approval of the Lord Lieutenant for corporate appointments, the oath of supremacy from all officers, vesting elections in the common council, and providing for admission of Protestant settlers to the freedom of the Corporation.

    Read the passage

    The proceedings of the Corporation at this period (1670), show how ill at ease that body was. An apphcation was made to King Charles II. for a renewal of the Charter of James, and for a further extension of the privileges which were thereby conferred on the citizens. A reference was made to the Irish Master of the Eolls to report to the king on the matter; the report was made to the Lord Lieutenant; and in it the contents of the Charter of James were set forth, and the attention of the Viceroy was directed to the " New Eules and Orders for the Eegulation of Corporations in Ireland,^^ then recently introduced. The report further prayed the Lord Lieutenanf's directions as to which of said " New Eules and Directions," were to be inserted in the proposed new Charter to Limerick — " such as might best consist with His Majesty's service and the good of the said Corporation.'" This report, which is dated the 13th February, 1671, was immediately followed by a proclamation of the New Eules for the government of the Corporation. By the first of these rules, the approbation of the Lord Lieutenant and Council was made necessary to the appointment of the corporate officers of Mayor, Sheriffs, Eecorder and Town Clerk, within ten days after their election. By the second, the oath of supremacy was required from all such corporate officers. By the third, the election of all corporate officers was taken away from the body of freemen and vested in the common council, and nothing was permitted to be discussed in the general assembly of freemen, or court of D^Oyer Hundred, which had not previously passed the common council; and this under pain of disfranchisement. By the fourth, the admission of Protestant settlers in the city of Limerick to the freedom of the Corporation was provided for, as in the other corporate towns in Ireland.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 116

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries the mark of a decision made in 1671. The Corporation at that time was ill at ease. It applied to King Charles the Second for a renewal of the Charter of James and for further extension of the privileges conferred on the citizens. The matter was referred to the Irish Master of the Rolls, who reported to the Lord Lieutenant. His report, dated the 13th of February, 1671, set forth the contents of the Charter of James and drew the Viceroy's attention to what were called the New Rules and Orders for the Regulation of Corporations in Ireland, then recently introduced. He asked the Lord Lieutenant which of these New Rules should be inserted in the proposed new Charter to Limerick, such as might best consist with His Majesty's service and the good of the Corporation. The report was immediately followed by a proclamation. The first rule made the approbation of the Lord Lieutenant and Council necessary to the appointment of the corporate officers of Mayor, Sheriffs, Recorder and Town Clerk, within ten days after their election. The second required the oath of supremacy from all such corporate officers. The third took the election of all corporate officers away from the body of freemen and vested it in the common council. Nothing was permitted to be discussed in the general assembly of freemen, or court of Doyer Hundred, that had not previously passed the common council, and this under pain of disfranchisement. The fourth provided for the admission of Protestant settlers in the city to the freedom of the Corporation, as in the other corporate towns in Ireland.

36. O'Brien coffin lid with lion figures in cathedral transept

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    An elaborate cut stone with floriated ornamentation, divided into four compartments by a cross, each bearing a lion passant (the arms of the O'Briens), is said to have formed the lid of a stone coffin. It was moved from the western entrance to the north transept during 1861 alterations.

    Read the passage

    Lyinor -^vith the head from the western wall of the north transept, is a highly elaborate cut stone, with floriated ornamentation in high relief, divided into four compartments by a cross embraced in the middle by a oircle. In each of the compartments is the figure of a lion passant, the arms of the O'Briens. This ancient relic is said to have formed the lid of a stone coffin, and until the alterations in 1861, it lay near the western entrance, from which it was removed to its present place.

    The monument of Dean Creagh, above referred to, is placed next to the above tombstone.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 334

37. O'Cuin family seat at Corofin

    Corrofin · town · Clare · 1525

    Bishop John Quin (O'Cuin) belonged to the old family of O'Cuin, of the tribe of Muinter Ifernain, located at Corofin in County Clare. His brother James Quin of Kilmallock was the direct ancestor of the Earl of Dunraven.

    Read the passage

    James Harold was mayor, "for the first time", in 1525.' _ The bishop was a member of the old family of O'Cuin, of the tribe of jMuinter lifernan, located at Corofin, in the county of Clare, his brother James Quin, of Kilmallock, being the direct ancestor of the Right Hon. the Earl of Dunraven. It appears by Dr. INIoran's introduction to the Lives of the ArcliUsliops of Dublin^ that John Coyn, or Quin, for some time had a coadjutor named Cornelius O'Neil, of the Tyrone family. Writing on the authority of Father Domingo Lopes, the annalist of the Trinitarian Order,_ whose rare •work was published at Madrid in 1714, he says this coadjutor was a member of that order, and had acted in preceding years as provincial ; that the convent contained forty-five rehgious, and that in 1539, when acting as suffragan, he preached in the cathedral, denouncing the threatened innovations in rehgion, the destruction of the religious houses, and anathematizing any of his flock who should renounce the saving doctrines of the Catholic Faith for that which had then begun to be preached to them. On the same evening, 24th June, 1539, in his own residence, according to the same authority, his head was struck off by a blow of a sword by one of the emissaries of the crown. On the 16th January, 1540-41, we find Bishop Quin at Cahir, where, with the Lord Deputy Sentleger, the Archbishop of Cashel, and the Bishop of Emly, he certified the submission of James FitzJohn, Earl of Desmond. The Bishop of Limerick is mentioned in some state papers printed in Lynch's Feudal Dignities of Ireland (p. 341), and in the State Papers of Henry VIII. (vol.iii. part iii. p. 307), as having been present at the parhainent of 1541, which enacted that Henry should

    > Arthur MSS.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 333

38. O'Kennedys and O'Cleary bound in bond at Limerick, 1636

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1636

    To warrant the lands sold to Dr. Arthur, Moriartagh O'Bryen procured John O'Kennedy of Douneally, William O'Kennedy of Lissenaragid, and Conor O'Cleary of Bruodyr to become bound in a thousand pounds bond acknowledged at Limerick. These Ormond gentlemen later appeared as forfeiters in the Book of Distributions.

    Read the passage

    Land changed hands to a great extent in these troubled and disastrous years ; and bargains were struck, which are hardly paralleled in the cheap dealings of the more modern Incumbered Estates^ Coui't. Dr. Thomas Arthur states,, that Daniel FitzTerlagh O^Brien of Aunagh, in Ormond, Esq., on the 1st of September, 1631, sold him the absolute fee simple of two plow-lands and a quarter, less one-eight and fortieth part of a plow-land, in the Barony or Cantred of Arra, Co. Tipperary, in the Parish of Templean-Calha, near BalKna, with the fishing wehs thereunto belongmg, in the river Shannon, for £200 ! He states moreover, that Daniel's foster brother, Kennedy M^Donough O^'Bryen, sold him on the same day, the half quarter of a plow-land, called Mehannach, and the half quarter of a plowland, called Droumnakearten, for £31 ! ! In order to warrant and defend aU these lands against all persons unto him (Dr. Arthur), his heirs and assigns, Moriartagh O'Bryen, son and heir of Daniel Kennedy M'Donough, procured John O'Kennedy of Douneally, William O'Kennedy of Lissenaragid, and Conor O'Cleary of Bruodyr, " all gentlemen of Ormond," to become bound with them in one thousand pounds bond of the statute staple, acknowledge to him at Limerick, 6th January, 1636. It is a startling fact that in a few years afterAvards, these gentlemen of Ormond, the O^Kennedys of Lissenaragid, and of Dounally, figure in the Book of Distributions as forfeiters.

    WentwortVs progress in Connaught was made in 1635, to try by inquisition the King's title to the counties of Roscommon, Shgo, Mayo, and Galway, and the county of the town of Galway ; in tliis he was successful. Galway alone opposing — but the sheriff and jurors, composed of the principal inhabitants of the county, confessed the King^s right, after they had been sent to the Star Chamber, and gave in their oaths to that effect in the Court of Exchequer.^ The case of tenures upon the Defective Titles was decided in a solemn judgment by all the Irish judges. Five of the judges concurred in the opmion that the holders of the Letters Patent from the King or any of

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 80

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is where a bond was acknowledged on the 6th of January, 1636, that tied together several Ormond families in a land deal gone wrong. It began in 1631, when Dr. Thomas Arthur bought land from Daniel FitzTerlagh O'Brien of Aunagh, in Ormond. On the 1st of September that year, Daniel sold him the absolute fee simple of two plow-lands and a quarter, less one-eight and fortieth part of a plow-land, in the Barony of Arra, County Tipperary, in the Parish of Temple-an-Calha, near Ballina, with the fishing weirs belonging to it in the river Shannon, for 200 pounds. On the same day, Daniel's foster brother, Kennedy M'Donough O'Bryen, sold him the half quarter of a plow-land called Mehannach and the half quarter called Droumnakearten, for 31 pounds. To warrant and defend all these lands against all persons, Moriartagh O'Bryen, son and heir of Daniel Kennedy M'Donough, procured John O'Kennedy of Douneally, William O'Kennedy of Lissenaragid, and Conor O'Cleary of Bruodyr, described as all gentlemen of Ormond, to become bound with them in one thousand pounds bond of the statute staple, acknowledged here at Limerick on that January day in 1636. What is startling is that within a few years, these same gentlemen of Ormond, the O'Kennedys of Lissenaragid and of Dounally, appear in the Book of Distributions as forfeiters. Their lands were lost.

39. Parliamentarians attack castles and kill country people near Bunratty

    Cappagh · townland · Clare

    During the Bunratty siege, Parliamentarian forces attacked the castles of Rossmanaher, Cappagh, Kenane, and Captain Hunt's castle, killing many inoffensive country people described in the diary of operations as 'Bogues.'

    Read the passage

    besieged, and to lodge a number of bis soldiers in a place by wbich a part of the array miglit be enabled to invest the castle ; this was successfully executed, but the soldiers, hearing a noise which they imagined was the approach of cavalry, fled in consternation, the sergeant appointed to command the part}' being the first to take to his heels, relying on too great indulgence hitherto observed in such cases. Lord Muskerry, however, made a stern example — the sergeant and ten soldiers were executed on the spot. To make up for the partial reverse, Lieut. -Colonel MacAdam, who is admitted by Billing to have been a most skilful and couragious officer, whose loss to the Parliamentarians was irreperable, was killed bj' an accidental shot from a field piece that was planted among gabions.* His loss was the main cause of the capture of Bunratty by the Confederate army. Several pages of that very interesting work, " The Memorials of Sir William Penn," (2 vols., Duncan, London, 1833) are occupied with a diary of this seige, and with the proceedings of the Parliamentarians before Bunratty. During the time they attacked the castles of Eossmanaher, Cappagh, Kenane, Captain Hunt's castle, &c., and killed many inoffensive country people, who, in the diary of the operations, are called " IJogues," &c. &c. The progress of the seige was satisfactorily hastened by the presence of Rinunccini, the Papal Nuncio, who remained at Bunratty twelve days, forwarding the batteries, completing the undertaking, and ultimately, when victory crowned the effort with success, causing the English standards to be carried through the streets of Limerick as trophies of the Catholic religion. (^Nunziatura).

    • From the Nunziatura in Irlanda : Florence, 1844.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 89

40. Patrick Fennell, schoolmaster at Ballingarry

    Ballingarry · town · Limerick · 1771

    Patrick Fennell was a schoolmaster at Ballingarry in 1771 and one of the native Irish bards of County Limerick.

    Read the passage

    Of Bards who wrote in Irish, natives of the county of Limerick, there have been several, viz., David O'Bruadair (Broderick), who was living in 1692 ; Patrick Kelly, who died in 1741 . John Roberts lived in 1778; Patrick Fennell, a schoolmaster at Ballingarry in 1771; John Lloyd, •whose contributions in Irish fill some pages of the collection of the Poets oj Munstbr, and who wrote a short history of the county of Clare, was a native of the county of Limerick. He resided principally in the west of Clare, and taught in private families there. His death was attended by melancholy circumstances at Moyarta, about the year 1790. John Tuomy, some of whose poems also appear among the collections above referred to, died in 177i5, in Limerick; Maurio* Griffin, who lived at Slevereigh, near Ballingarry, in 1778; James Daly, of Loughmora, who was living in 1770, and who composed several exquisite elegies; Thomas Gleeson, of Adare, an expert Latin and Irish scholar; David O'Clery, of Newcastle; James Kennedy, of Kilmallock ; Andrew M'Mahon, who kept a tanyard at Limerick, and who wrote several satires; Nicholas O'Donnell, a native also, who was "high sheriff of the Appolonian court, Cork". These are among the Irish writing bards. In the present century Patrick O'Kelly, author of Killarney, and other English poems, and mentioned in Lockhart's life of Scott, resided here for many years. He was, we believe, a Roscommon man by birth, Edward Moran, in 1823, wrote and published several meritorious verses which he dedicated to Thomas Moore; Mr. Moran afterwards became attached to the Globe and Traveller newspaper in London, of which he was sub-editor for some years. J. Walsh also wrote some good verses, as has the latest of our local bards Michael Hogan, the " Bard of Thomond", who has published several pleasing ballads, and whose poems have appeared in a collected form.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 455

41. Presbyterian Meeting House, Glentworth Street

    Glentworth Street · street · Limerick · 1775

    The Presbyterian Meeting House on Glentworth Street near the Dominican church was a commodious cut-stone edifice. The Presbyterians' former place of worship was on Peter Street, built in 1775 at a cost of £500.

    Read the passage

    The Presbyterian Meeting House, a commodious edifice of cut stone, is situated in Glentworth Street, near the Dominican church. Their former place of worship was in Peter Street, having been built in 1775, with a house for the minister, at an expense of £500. They had previously, tiiat is, soon after the Revolution, rented the chapel of the old Augustine Nunnery in Peter's Cell. The Presbyterians in Limerick have been largely increased by an accession of several Scotch families, whose representatives are now merchants, and otherwise respectably employed in the city.

    The Quakers' IMeeting House is at present in Cecil Street. It had been first in Creagh Lane, and was afterwards in Peter Street, where tlaey bad a cemetery, now disused for the more modern one at Eallinacuvra Pike. The Quakers settled in Limerick in 1655.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 395

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on Glentworth Street, near the Dominican church, stands the Presbyterian Meeting House, a commodious edifice of cut stone. The Presbyterians had an earlier place of worship on Peter Street, built in 1775, with a house for the minister, at a cost of £500. Before that, soon after the Revolution, they rented the chapel of the old Augustine Nunnery in Peter's Cell. The Presbyterian community in Limerick grew over the years, increased by an accession of several Scotch families, whose representatives are now merchants and otherwise respectably employed in the city.

42. Redemptorist church built on South Circular Road, Limerick

    South Circular Road · street · Limerick · 1854–1857

    In May 1854 the Redemptorist Fathers built a comparatively small church on the South Circular Road adjoining the site of the present larger church. During 1856 and 1857 they also built a conventual establishment at a cost of £6,000, described as an architectural ornament of the city.

    Read the passage

    Meantime the progress of Catholic institutions, schools, and churches in Limerick, had become one of the most remarkable phases of the year at which we have arrived. An event of great interest, and one that attracted an immense concourse, was the laying of the foundation stone, on the 30th of May, of the new and beautiful church of St. Alphonsus by the Right Rev. Dr. Ryan, who was surrounded by the clergy of the city, secular and regular. The Redemptorist Fathers, who follow the rule of their founder, St. Alphonsus de Liguori, had their first residence in Limerick at Bank Place, where they opened a small oratory on the Feast of Saint Andrew (November 28), 1853. In the May following they had built on the South Circular Road a comparatively small church, which adjoined the site of the present one; and during the years 1856 and 1857, at a cost of £6,000, a conventual establishment, which is one of the architectural ornaments of the city. The walls of the church had been already raised some feet above the surface, and these having been flagged, boarded over, and carpeted, formed a suitable course for this grand rehgious procession. The transept of the church is 73 feet — the nave and side aisles 70 feet wide — the length 176 feet — the height 76 feet from the nave floor to the apex of the ceiling. All the religious orders of the city, and the representatives of every public body, were present. The arrangements were admirable, and the day was brilliant. Two episcopal thrones were placed in suitable positions, one for the bishop of Limerick and the other for the Bishop of Kerry, who, however, was unavoidably absent; these thrones were canopied over with crimson velvet, and were gilded and festooned. The procession left the sanctuary of the small temporary chmrch of the fathers at half-past two o'clock, preceded by cross-bearer, acolytes, standard-bearers, boys in surplices and soutanes, boys bearing the rule and square, the trowel and hod ; lay brothers bearing the banner of

    520

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 298

43. Redemptorists establish permanent mission in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1851–1853

    The Redemptorist Fathers gave their first Limerick mission in the old chapel of St. John's in October 1851 and a second in St. Michael's parish church in May 1852. They established themselves permanently in Limerick on 30 November 1853.

    Read the passage

    The Redemptorist Fathers, who have obtained so many splendid triumphs for religion, established themselves permanently in Limerick, November 30th, 1853, after having given two missions in the city — the first in the old chapel of St. John's, October, 1851, the second in the parish church of St. Michael's, May, 1852. At first they occupied a temporary residence in Bank Place, where they opened a small oratory, which considerable numbers were in the habit of attending. In May, 1854, they removed to Upper Jdenry Street, near South Circular Road, where they had built a temporary chapel, close by the site of their present magnificent church and convent. In August, 1856, the first stone of the

    • Dr. Lynch's Lije of Dr. Kirwan.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 385

    As the companion tells it

    You are passing through Limerick, where the Redemptorist Fathers established themselves permanently on November 30th, 1853. Before settling, they had given two missions in the city. The first was in October 1851, in the old chapel of St. John's. The second was in May 1852, in the parish church of St. Michael's. At first they occupied a temporary residence in Bank Place, where they opened a small oratory, which considerable numbers were in the habit of attending. In May 1854, they removed to Upper Henry Street, near South Circular Road, where they had built a temporary chapel, close by the site of their present church and convent. In August 1856, the first stone of that church was laid.

44. Refuge for Servants housing forty unemployed women

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1848–1865

    A Refuge for Servants was established at the Limerick convent to shelter women out of place. By 1865, no fewer than forty servants were housed in the Refuge, reflecting widespread destitution among working women.

    Read the passage

    The progress which religion and religious institutions were making throughout the city was really marvellous. On the 24th of September, 1848, the convent of the Sisters of Mercy on the site of a convent of the Order of Poor Clares, who had been there some years previously, and in a locality famed in ancient days for the great convent of the Friars preachers or Dominicans. Mrs. Macauley, from the Parent House, Baggot-street, Dublin, was the foundress of the new convent ; and was accompanied by Mrs. Moore, a native of Dublin, who became superioress, and who for several years has presided over the laborious duties of her office, with incalculable benefit to the interests of rehgion and of the poor. In the old convent of the Poor Clares were two lay sisters when Mrs. Macauley arrived in Limerick ; and these, with pious solicitude, she admitted into her establishment. The house which was prepared for the accommodation of the Sisters of Mercy was smaU ; four or five ladies joined during the first year. The growth of the establishment became vigorous, fostered as it was by the constant vigilance and munificence of the Eight Eev. Dr. Eyan, who encouraged the pious sisterhood in their unwearied labours, and who gave them the most substantial proofs of the deep interest which he took in their successful progress. The grounds occupied an acre, with room sufficient for building purposes and extended accommodation. School-houses, a Eefuge for Servants, an Orphanage, &c., were soon erected, and brought within the reach of the destitute and the forlorn. Thousands of pounds were expended by the community in increasing the accommodation for these merciful objects ; the Eefuge of Servants was at once prepared and occupied, and in 1865, there are no less than forty servants out of place in the Eefuge.

    In 1844 the Orphanage was founded, within the Convent grounds ; but not having been spacious enough for the accumulating numbers who were

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 281

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city holds a story of women who took in women who had nowhere else to go. On the 24th of September, 1848, the Sisters of Mercy established a convent here, on a site that had already held a convent of the Poor Clares, in a locality once known for the great convent of the Dominican friars. Mrs. Macauley, from the parent house in Baggot Street, Dublin, was the foundress, and she was accompanied by Mrs. Moore, also from Dublin, who became superioress and for years presided over the duties of the office. When Mrs. Macauley arrived, two lay sisters remained from the old Poor Clares convent, and she admitted them into the new establishment. The house prepared for the Sisters of Mercy was small, and four or five ladies joined during the first year. The growth became vigorous, fostered by the vigilance and munificence of Dr. Ryan, who encouraged the sisterhood and gave substantial proof of his interest in their progress. The grounds occupied an acre, with room for building. School-houses, a Refuge for Servants, and an Orphanage were erected and brought within reach of the destitute. Thousands of pounds were spent increasing accommodation for these purposes. The Refuge for Servants was at once prepared and occupied, and in 1865 there were no less than forty servants out of place housed there. The Orphanage had been founded earlier, in 1844, within the convent grounds, though it was not spacious enough for the accumulating numbers who came.

45. See of Killaloe united to Roscrea and Inniscattery

    Killaloe · town · Clare · 1188–1216

    Around the late twelfth century, the see of Killaloe was united to Roscrea (Eile) and to the see of Inniscattery (Scattery Island). Hugh O'Beaghan, last bishop of Inniscattery, died in 1188, and Isaac O'Cuainan, last bishop of Eile and Roscrea, died in 1161.

    Read the passage

    At this period, no doubt by Enghsh influence, the see of Killaloe was united to Eoscrea, or Eile, and to the celebrated see of Inniscattery, or Scattery Island.^ The death of Aedh or Hugh O'Beaghan, last bishop of Inniscattery, is set down in the annals of the Four Masters at 1188, and that of the last bishop of Eile and Eoscrea, namely, of Isaac O'Cuainan, at 1161. The see of Inniscattery extended to both sides of the estuary.'*

    * A memorial of these defeats of the English still remains in " The Graves of the Leinster Men," which are situated in the barony of Owney and Arra, not far distant from the Corbally Slate Quarries, about two miles N.E. of Derry Castle House, and in the valley that lies between Thoum-Thinna (the Wave of Fire) mountain and the high lands behind Derry, Ryninch, Castletown, &c., &c. These graves are marked on the Ordnance Survey Map of L-eland, so remarkable and historic are they. The view from the graves is grand and beautiful, embracing the Shannon for several miles, the Holy Islands (Inniscailthra), Scariff Bay, and a great part of Tipperary and Connaught. The people look upon these ancient depositaries of the remains of the invaders with unaccountable veneration or rather superstition. It is only lately that the bones of the occupant of one of the graves were disturbed during some drainage operations, when the peasantry declared they discovered a number of supernatural footprints near the resting places of these venerable warriors, and on the margin of a certain reservoir which was formed on the side of the mountain to drive a wheel. The wanton destruction of one of the graves, some time before, had occasioned great indignation among the people. In the j'ear 1194, the annals record the death of the illustrious Donaldmore, king of Thomond, in the following language : — " Donnell, son of Turlough O'Brien, king of Munster, a beaming lamp in peace and war, and the brilliant star of the hospitality and valour of the Momonians and of all Leth-Mogha, died, and Murtagh, his son, assumed his place.'' — Annals of the Four Masters.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 31

46. Singland: tradition of St Patrick's visit

    Singland · townland · Limerick

    Tradition held that St Patrick dwelt with a chieftain named Cunneen when he visited Singland, which formed part of the parish of St Patrick in which Park is situated. The Cunneen name was described as one of the most ancient in the south of Ireland.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 269

47. Sixteen executed at Ennis session, February 1601

    Ennis · town · Clare · 1601

    During a session held at Ennis on the feast of St. Bridget, February 20th, 1601, sixteen persons suffered the penalty of death. Afterwards the Earl of Thomond departed for England, taking his younger brother Donald to present to the Queen.

    Read the passage

    During a session held at Ennis on the feast of St. Bridget in this year, Eeb. 20th, 1601, sixteen persons suffered the penalty of death, after which the Earl of Thomond departed for England, taking with him his younger brother Donald, whom he presented to the Queen. They returned, however, to Ireland shortly after, having been dispatched by the Queen and Council with reinforcements to Mountjoy, who was at that time engaged in the siege of Kinsale. In the meantime the Spaniards had sent dispatches to the north to O'Neill and DonneU, intreating them to march to their assistance, the number of Spanish troops who had landed at Castlehaven not exceeding 700.

    O'Donnell soon made his appearance in Ormond with an army chiefly collected in Connaught and Leinster. A reinforcement of two thousand Spanish troops with cannon and supplies afterwards arrived, and O'NeiU occupied a position which enabled him to cut off all supphes from Cork,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 70

48. Subscription meeting for Crimean war widows and orphans at Town Hall

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1854

    On October 26th, 1854, a meeting was held at the Town Hall in Limerick, the Mayor presiding, to open a subscription for widows and orphans of soldiers fallen in action in the Crimea. The Earl of Clare and Dr. Ryan, the Catholic Bishop, attended.

    Read the passage

    October '26th. — A meeting was held at the Town Hall, the Mayor presiding, for the purpose of opening a subscription for the widows and orplians of soldiers, lately fallen in action in the Crimea. The Earl of Clave and the Right Rev. Dr. Ry.in, the Catholic Bisliop, attended.

    October 28th. — Sergeant O'Brien was returned without opposition M.P. for the city.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 292

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the Town Hall stands in this city. On October 26th, 1854, a meeting was held there, the Mayor presiding, to open a subscription for the widows and orphans of soldiers lately fallen in action in the Crimea. The Earl of Clare and Dr. Ryan, the Catholic Bishop, attended.

49. Subscriptions raised for the poor instead of illuminations

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    On December 1st, the Mayor and Alderman Watson solicited subscriptions from citizens for the poor and indigent in place of illuminations celebrating recent victories over the French by the Allies, raising £80.

    Read the passage

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

    In this month the new Gothic gateway in Bow Lane was finished ; it opens a communication for carriages to the great western door of the cathedral, which had been long since disused as a passage. Opened December 2oth (Christmas day).

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 246

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, there is a moment from December 1st worth knowing. The Mayor, with Alderman Watson and some other gentlemen, went through the town and solicited subscriptions from the citizens for the poor and indigent, in place of illuminations for recent victories over the French by the Allies. £80 was raised.

50. Suppression of St. Mary's monastery and grant to Edmond Sexton

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1528–1538

    An inquisition into the possessions of St. Mary's monastery was held in the 19th year of Henry VIII, and the grant of the monastery to Edmond Sexton was made in the 29th year of that reign. The last prior before the suppression was Patrick Harrold.

    Read the passage

    3 A grant to Edmond Sexten by Privy Seal, to the King's well beloved servant Edmond Sextan Sewer of his Chamber of tlie Monastery, Priory or Cell of St. Mary-house, the cite ambit or ground thereof, and all Lordships, Manors, Lands, Advowsons of Churches, Tytlies, Chapels, Chantries, etc., spiritual and temporal thereto belonging, within the precinct of the city or in the county of Limerick, in as large and ample manner as Sir Patrick Harrold late Prior had the same together with the goods and utensils thereof, To hold to the heirs male of his body by the service of one Knight's fee, with directions for a Commission to issue for dissolution of said Monastery.— /nro//erf, EoUs Office, Dublin, 2dtk year of Henry VIII,

    644 HISTORY OF LIMERICK.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 370

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city holds the story of St. Mary's monastery. By grant of the Privy Seal, in the 26th year of Henry VIII, the King's "well beloved servant" Edmond Sexton, Sewer of his Chamber, received the Monastery of St. Mary-house, with its site and ground, and all lordships, manors, lands, tithes, chapels, chantries, spiritual and temporal, within the city or county of Limerick. He was to hold it in as large a manner as Sir Patrick Harrold, the late Prior, had held it, together with the goods and utensils. It was to pass to the heirs male of his body by the service of one Knight's fee. A commission was directed to issue for the dissolution of the monastery.

51. Theobald de Burgh of Castleconnell shares spoils of Franciscan Abbey

    Castleconnell · town · Limerick · 1543–1617

    Theobald de Burgh, Baron of Castleconnell, obtained a patent touching tithes and spiritual duties of St. Francis Abbey, sharing the spoils of the monastery with Edmond Sexten. The abbey's possessions were extensive, and its gardens and orchards within the precincts covered some acres of ground.

    Read the passage

    tliough its attractions had been lost, and its sacred places polluted by being converted into tan pits, yet its site was such as to command the admiration of every beholder. Another Theobold de Burgh, Baron of Castleconnell, however, " obtained a patent touching tithes and spirituall dutycs of St. Francis Abbey", and with Edmond Sexten he shared the spoils of this noble monastery, whose possessions were extensive, and whose gardens and orchards within the precincts covered some acres of ground.' The inquisition, already referred to, touching the crown's properties in Limerick (33rd Henry VIII.), showed the riches of the abbey's possessions in its silver and gold vessels, its reliquaries, its chalices, etc., which went into the desecrated hands of the spoiler, at a period when nothing that was good and useful was spared, and when the rapacity of the government was not satiated without the blood of clergy and people, or with the wealth and stability of their institutions. Even the Corporation of Limerick complained to the crown that Edmond Sexten had obtained the grant of St. Mary's House', or the Monastery of the Canons Regular, by false pretences, and petitioned that the grant should be annulled.' The Corporation obtained no redress by their motion; on the contrary, we are assured that Sexten exercised the power of imprisoning the Mayor and members of the Corporation on a certain occasion in the castle of Limerick ;* and we find the grandson of this same Edmond Sexten, some few years afterwards, presenting a petition to the government which to the last degree was insolent and audacious :

    " TO THE LO. LIEUT. GENERALL OF IRELAND.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 376

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Castleconnell, a town in Limerick with a history bound to the de Burgh family. In the 33rd year of Henry the 8th, Theobald de Burgh, Baron of Castleconnell, obtained a patent touching tithes and spiritual duties of St. Francis Abbey. With Edmond Sexten, he shared the spoils of that noble monastery. The abbey's possessions were extensive, and its gardens and orchards within the precincts covered some acres of ground. An inquisition touching the crown's properties in Limerick showed the riches of the abbey in its silver and gold vessels, its reliquaries, its chalices, all of which went into the desecrated hands of the spoiler. The sacred places had been polluted, converted into tan pits, though the site still commanded the admiration of every beholder. This was a period when nothing good and useful was spared, and the rapacity of the government was not satiated without the blood of clergy and people, or the wealth and stability of their institutions. The Corporation of Limerick complained to the crown that Edmond Sexten had obtained the grant of St. Mary's House, the Monastery of the Canons Regular, by false pretences, and petitioned that the grant should be annulled. They obtained no redress. Sexten exercised the power of imprisoning the Mayor and members of the Corporation in the castle of Limerick. His grandson later presented a petition to the government that was, to the last degree, insolent and audacious.

52. Threatening letter over seat in St. Mary's Church, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1710

    Bishop Thomas Smyth received a threatening letter demanding that a seat in St. Mary's Church, Limerick, enjoyed by Alderman Colpoys, be given to Mr. Bindon. The letter was delivered by a messenger and dated June 1, 1710.

    Read the passage

    The Bishop, however, was destined for further troubles. He received a threatening letter " in an unknown hand," (a very good hand too) " if the siat 171 St. Mary's Clmrch, Limerick, tohich Alderman Coljpoys enjoys, he not given to Mr. Bindon.'^ The letter was sent by a messenger, and was wrapped up in an envelope, inside which was the following note : —

    " Sir, — The Bearer being not well acquainted with yr. towne, I presume to desire the favour, that you will send one of your servants with this Letter to my Lord Bishop's, that when he returns tomorrow he may have an answer thereto, for Sii',

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 176

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Limerick, there's a story from St. Mary's Church, from June 1, 1710. Bishop Thomas Smyth received a threatening letter in an unknown hand, though a good hand. It demanded that a seat in St. Mary's Church, which Alderman Colpoys enjoyed, be given to Mr. Bindon. The letter was sent by a messenger and wrapped in an envelope. Inside was a note: "The Bearer being not well acquainted with yr. towne, I presume to desire the favour, that you will send one of your servants with this Letter to my Lord Bishop's, that when he returns tomorrow he may have an answer thereto."

53. Turlogh O'Brien burns county of Limerick along the Maigue

    Coshma · barony · Limerick · 1503

    In the winter of 1503, Turlogh O'Brien, Lord of Thomond, burned the county of Limerick and the area along the river Maigue in the Barony of Coshma, extending to Limerick.

    Read the passage

    1503. In the winter of this year Turlogh O'Brien, Lord of Thomond, bm-ned the county of Limerick and Cord-Maighe [i.e. along the river Maigue in the Barony of Coshma, to Limerick] "*

    The death of Donough O'Brien, the descendant of Donough Carbraigh, Lord of the district from Adare to Limerick, and from Baile-nua (NcAvtown in the parish of Kilkeedy) to Monasteraneuagh, Lord of Aherlagh and Coill-Beithne (Kilbeheny) " the fountain of the prosperity and afiluence of Munster,'' occurred in 1502. In this year, according to the Annals of Ulster, there was such inclement weather that it killed most of the cattle of Ireland, and prevented the husbandmen from tilling the earth. In the next year (1503) the Earl of Kildare went to England, and returned home with success, bringing with him his son, who had been in the custody of the King of England. Edmond Knight of Glynn died ; and Teige Boirneach of Burren, county Clare, and Murtogh O'Brien, who went with Owen OTlaherty into West Connaught against his kmsmen, Eory Oge and Donnell an baid or of the Boat, two sons of O'Elaherty, attacked the camp and carried away prizes and spoils. The sons of Mahon O'Brien and Owen

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 43

54. Two men brought from Rathkeale charged as United Irishmen

    Rathkeale · town · Limerick · 1798

    Joseph O'Loughlin and John Fitzgerald were escorted from Rathkeale by George Leake and a party of the Lower Connelloe cavalry, charged with using traitorous language and being sworn United Irishmen.

    Read the passage

    Messrs. Joseph O'Loughlin and John Fitzgerald were brought in from Eathkeale, escorted by George Leake, Esq., and a party of the Lower Connelloe cavalry, charged with using traitorous language, and being sworn United Irishmen.

    June 4. £200 was subscribed by the citizens, for the wives and children of the soldiers who went in pursuit of the United Irishmen at Kildare.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 235

55. Wine and coffee merchants in Limerick, c. 1723

    Mary Street · street · Limerick · 1723

    Around 1723, Mr. Stritch imported claret sold at £55 a tun, and Mr. Pierce Moroney was a wine merchant in Limerick. Good coffee was sold in Mary Street by Mr. Holland Goddison at 4s. per lb., while white wine fetched ten pounds a hogshead.

    Read the passage

    . ' Claret and wbite wine were in general use. Mr. Stritch imported claret, which he sold at £55 a tun. Mr. Pierce Moroney was also a wine merchant. " A hogshead of white wine" sold for ten pounds. Imperial tea 4s. per lb. green tea Gs. per lb. in 1723 j good coffea was sold in Mary-street by Mr. Holland Goddison, at 4s. per lb.

    332 UISTORY OF LIMERICK.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 187

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on Mary Street in 1723, Mr. Holland Goddison sold good coffee at 4 shillings a pound. Claret and white wine were in general use. Mr. Stritch imported claret, which he sold at £55 a tun. Mr. Pierce Moroney was also a wine merchant. A hogshead of white wine sold for ten pounds. Imperial tea was 4 shillings a pound, green tea 6 shillings.

56. George's Quay parapet wall and water slips in dangerous state

    George's Quay · street · Limerick · 1823

    The Mayor publicly advertised for estimates to repair the parapet wall on George's Quay and three water slips, two of which (near the new bridge and Ball's bridge) were in a deplorable and dangerous state, likely neglected since their erection in 1763. The slip at Creagh-lane had been repaired in 1812.

    Read the passage

    It is deemed worthy of observation, and a proof of the change in the time, that the Mayor, on the 10th of May, actuaU.T/ and publicly advertised for estimates for the repair of the parapet wall on George's quay, and the three water slips on the same— two of them—the one near the new (now Mathew) bridge— and the other near Ball's bridge, were in a most deplorable and truly dangerous state, having probably, no attention paid them, since their erection m 1763 ; the slip at the end of Creagh-lane was well repaired in the Mayoralty of Andrew Watson, Esq. in 1812.

    June Gth.— In the King's Bench, William Taylor, one of the City Sheriffs, sentenced to one month's imprisonment, in Kilmainham Gaol, from the first day of term, for using and writing provoking expressions to John Norris Russell— inducing hun to break the peace ; this matter arose out of the disputes between the Corporation and the Independents, of whom Mr. J. N. Russell was an efiicient member.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 250

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on George's Quay in Limerick, the parapet wall and the water slips were once in a sorry state. On the 10th of May 1823, the Mayor publicly advertised for estimates to repair the parapet wall and three water slips on this quay. Two of those slips were in a most deplorable and truly dangerous state. One was near the new bridge, now called Mathew bridge, and the other near Ball's bridge. They had probably had no attention paid to them since their erection in 1763. The third slip, at the end of Creagh-lane, had been well repaired back in 1812, during the mayoralty of Andrew Watson. So by 1823, two of the three had gone untouched for some sixty years.

57. Marsh between Newcastle and Singland

    Newcastle · town · Limerick · 1690

    A marsh lay between Newcastle and Singland during the siege of Limerick, contributing to the swampy terrain that made approaches to the city difficult for William's forces.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 136

58. Opening of street from Park Bridge to Quay-lane

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1824

    On 26 April 1824, labourers were employed opening a street from the end of Park Bridge crossing Mary-street to Quay-lane in Limerick. Work could proceed only in the Abbey area until presentments were made for the houses in Mary-street to be taken down.

    Read the passage

    On the 26th of April, 1824, labourers were employed in opening the street from the end of Park Bridge, to communicate in a line from thence, and cross Mary-street to Quay-lane. The labourers could work only in the Abbey, (then part of the county of Limerick by charter) as the houses in Mary-streetwhich wereto betaken dovn had not been at the time presented for by the City Grand Jury. Ultimately the presentments were made, and Athlunkard-street was formed. James Kennedy, Esq., a banker, about twelve years before, projected a bridge from Corbally across the Shannon to Allan Court, cleared a passage through a pit at great expense, and laid a solid abutment. The project, however, was not carried through, though it had obtained general concurrence. It was at the conclusion of the session of Parliament this year that St. Francis's Abbey, theretofore in the county, by charter of James I., March 3rd, 1609, was attached to the city, and placed under the control of the city magistrates. Mr. Nimmo, the engineer, gave his opinion that a chain bridge could be thrown across the river at Allan Court for a sum not exceeding £2.000, but the idea of a chain bridge was abandoned.

    The Bill lor the erection of a bridge across the Shannon at Athlunkard to make a direct com.muuication or passage from the northern parts of the counties of Clare and Gal way, into Limerick, thus became law in 1825. Be-

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 268

59. 115-foot distillery chimney erected by Stein and Browne

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1822

    On August 22nd, a chimney 115 feet high was erected in the distillery concerns of Messrs. Stein and Browne in Limerick — the first of its kind ever seen there.

    Read the passage

    August 22 — A chimney erected in the distillery concerns of Messrs. Stein and Browne, 115 feet high — the first of its kind ever seen here.

    The improvement in Thomond Bridge finished ; it consists in the opening the E. end of the Bridge at the bottom of Castle-street, by enlarging three of the arche; on the N. side, and by throwing down an old house that projected into the street ; this passage had been long only eight feet ten inches width ; it is now increased nearly sixteen feet — it is much to be wished that the improvement be continued to the centre of the bridge. The road to the North Strand, at the S. end of the bridge, mdened and much improved.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 260

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, there is a chimney here that dates to 1822. On August 22nd, a chimney 115 feet high was erected in the distillery concerns of Messrs. Stein and Browne. It was the first of its kind ever seen in Limerick. Around the same time, improvements were finished at Thomond Bridge. They opened the east end of the bridge at the bottom of Castle Street by enlarging three of the arches on the north side and throwing down an old house that projected into the street. That passage had been only eight feet ten inches wide. It was now increased to nearly sixteen feet. The road to the North Strand at the south end of the bridge was also widened and much improved.

60. 1615 Inquisition into Limerick revenues and wears

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1615

    On 18 March 1615, an important inquisition was taken before Sir Francis Aungier and Sir John Davys, the king's Attorney General, by 'good and lawful men of the said county of Limerick.' The inquisition concerned the revenues of the wears of the city of Limerick, including the Fisher's tent, and was part of a broader series of grants and appointments during a period of corporate spoliation.

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    Whilst the wars of the Mayors were raging within the walls of the city, several grants were made, viz.^ of the cocquet of Limerick, &c. to WUham Bruncor.2 An appointment of officer of Customs, and a grant of the king's mills ^ were made; a view of the revenues of the '^ wears,^^ &c. was also taken,^ and on the 18th of March, 1615, a most important inquisition was taken before Sir Francis Aungier, Knight, and the celebrated Sir John Davys, the kiug^s Attorney General, with the following " good and lawful men of the said comity of Limerick,^-" viz, Henry Barkley of Ballycahan, gentleman ; James Rawley of Balhngowley, gentleman ; Connor O'Heyne of Caherelly, gentleman ; Donell M'Mahawne of Cragan, gentleman ; John Oge Gerrald of Ballinard, gentleman; Richard Wall of Cloughtreade, gentleman; Richard Purcell of Ballincarrigy, gentleman ; John FitzEdmonde of GiUeterstown, gentleman; Dermode M'Tighe of Twogh, gentleman; Walter Brown of Camus, gentleman; Thomas FitzJohn of Ballynemoug, gentleman ; Teigh O'Brien of Gortboy, gentleman.^

    ' Kepertory of Patent and Close Rolls of Chancery.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, there is a record from 1615. While the wars of the Mayors were raging within the walls of the city, several grants were made: the cocquet of Limerick to William Bruncor, an appointment of an officer of Customs, and a grant of the king's mills. A view of the revenues of the wears was also taken. On the 18th of March, 1615, a most important inquisition was taken before Sir Francis Aungier, Knight, and the celebrated Sir John Davys, the king's Attorney General, with good and lawful men of the said county of Limerick. They were Henry Barkley of Ballycahan, James Rawley of Ballingowley, Connor O'Heyne of Caherelly, Donell M'Mahawne of Cragan, John Oge Gerrald of Ballinard, Richard Wall of Cloughtreade, Richard Purcell of Ballincarrigy, John FitzEdmonde of Gilletterstown, Dermode M'Tighe of Twogh, Walter Brown of Camus, Thomas FitzJohn of Ballynemoug, and Teigh O'Brien of Gortboy. All of them gentlemen.