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. Act of Union disfranchises Askeaton and Kilmallock

   Askeaton · townland · Limerick · 1800–1801

   Following the 1798 horrors, Lord Castlereagh and the Earl of Clare pushed through the Act of Union, by which Limerick lost one parliamentary representative and the boroughs of Askeaton and Kilmallock were disfranchised entirely.

   Read the passage

   Old men remember with horror, and shudder when they speak of the terrible events of '98 in Limerick. Full swing was given to the Sheriffs Lloyd and Webb, who made themselves acceptable to their patrons by the worst possible excesses. To be accused was in most instances to be condemned, and the details which will be found below, tell in simple but steady language, for how little justice and mercy these awful times were remarkable. Trade and agriculture were now neglected; famine and famine prices prevailed. At Kilrush in the County of Clare, oats rose to 2s. per stone. The Government had everything its ovru way ; each succeeding day gave strength and power to its minions, whilst the lash and the gibbet were in constant requisition, the shrieks of the victims heard in every quarter ; and the roof-tree of many a dwelling was fired by the hands, not only of an infmiated yeomanry, but in many instances of men of rank and station who thus manifested the black feelings with which their hearts were filled. It was after these horrors that Lord Castlereagh and the Earl of Clare, were able to carry the Act of Union, to destroy by that nefarious measure, the independence of a country which had given birth to both of these unmitigated enemies to its prosperity ; thus inflicting serious misery on the trade and commerce of Limerick, as well as of all L-eland. By the Act of Union Limerick lost one representative, and the boroughs of Askeaton and Kilmallock were disfranchised.

   or in Dublin I know not. The only charge we have yet against you, comes from a man, who has never seen you and does not know you. If you are tried here you may depend on the honour of the present Court Martial." These were ominous words and merit the most marked attention, Mr. Patrick Arthur asked would the assistance of council be allowed if his son were tried in Limerick. " No," answered Colonel Cockell, " that is not customary." That it is and has been customary, however, is notorious.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 230

2. Adare Manor house ruined by Pierce Lacy

   Adare · townland · Limerick · 1600

   The army marched twelve miles to Adare, a Manor house belonging to the Earls of Kildare, wholly ruined by Pierce Lacy. From there the President sent 700 foot and 75 horse to Askeaton for garrison duty.

   Read the passage

   2 A.D. 1600 " The Victuals by reason of contrary winds, not being as yet come into the River of Shenan, the thirteenthe of this moneth he (Sir John Carew) was constrained for want thereof, to return to Limericlc again by which returne, we having marched though exceeding strong fastnesse, incamped the first night before the Castle of Corgroge, seated upon the Shenan belonging to Master Treiichard the Vndertaker, and of strength sufficient to hold out against any force except the cannon. But the example of the Glynne was so fearful to the Rebels, that upon the first summons they yeilded the same, with safetie of their lives, and the President gave the custody of it to Oliver Stevenson. The next day, the armie marched twelve miles unto Adare, a Manor house, belonging to the Earles of KUdare, wholy ruined by Pierce Lacy, from thence the President sent seven hundred foot, and seventie five horse to Askeiton, there to remain in garrison : and in the same year we find the following letter from James FitzThomas. Ibid, page 191.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 68

3. Andrew M'Mahon's tanyard in Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick

   Andrew M'Mahon kept a tanyard at Limerick and wrote several satires, making him one of the notable native Irish bards of the county.

   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

4. Archbishop of Tuam killed at Sligo en route from Kilkenny

   Sligo · town · Sligo · 1649

   The Archbishop of Tuam, escaping from Kilkenny on his way to Tuam, was killed by the Scotch at Sligo. He carried a document detailing monies brought to Ireland by the Nuncio and how they were expended.

   Read the passage

   * The Archbishop of Tuam in his escape from Kilkenny, on his way to Tnam, was killed by the Scotch at Sligo. He had a document on his person which gave an account of the monies brought to Ireland by the Nuncio, and how they were expended. He received from Cardinal Barberini 10,000 scudi, from Cardinal Mazzarini 25,000 lire, Tornese ; he also received arms and ammunition. The Nuncio also had 15,800 scudi of his own, which he gave in sustainment of the cause. — Nunziatura.

   3 Nunziatura.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 92

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up now is Sligo. In 1649 the Archbishop of Tuam was fleeing from Kilkenny, making for Tuam, when the Scotch killed him here. He was carrying a document on him that accounted for the monies brought to Ireland by the Nuncio and how they were spent. He had received from Cardinal Barberini 10,000 scudi, from Cardinal Mazzarini 25,000 lire Tornese, and also arms and ammunition. The Nuncio himself gave 15,800 scudi of his own to sustain the cause.

5. Arthur family civic and episcopal honors in Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick

   Nicholas Arthur's six sons attained prominent positions in Limerick: one became bishop of the city, four served as mayor, and one was elected bailiff by popular voice. The family's civic standing in Limerick spanned multiple generations.

   Read the passage

   For he (Nicholas) begot six sons, of whom the third was deemed worthy of the Episcopal honor of the city of Limerick, four obtained the rank of city procession (Mayor), and the sixth was bailiff by the voice of the people. One of these brothers shall be celebrated with a dirge of curs — Peter, 0 ! my great, great grandfather, my muse shall sing thee for ever — that John Budstone, whose bells resound in the shrine of the Virgin, had chosen thee for a son-in-law. Alas ! thou wert presently torn from the chaste arms of Margaret, leaving thee two sons as pledges, whom to be brought up for nine lustres (45 years) their careful mother attended to, loving them like a widowed turtle ; and Catherine, the Countess of Kildare, who was given in marriage to Purdon, withdrew them from their mother. And the patrimony which your father Budstone left to his widow, these, your gentle parent, made over to thee, O William,* some houses at Kilmallock, before the doors of the church, situated at the right, as j'ou go to the sacred shrines, and had given thee two monuments of her ancestors, both bearing the name of Budstone, and presenting, added, a fair [just] part of the Chapel which represents the name and aid of Magdalen. In truth, she wisely loved genius and the arts, and the splendid tokens of intelligence which you manifested. Though knewest right skilfully to touch lyre and harp ; thou didst open thy hospitable house to princely men. Hence the mightiest of Earls, the renowned hero of Desmond, bound thee to himself by the tie of friendship. Anon civic honors rejoiced to repose upon thy shoulders— thou wast bailiff bj' the voice of the people. Nor did the Nymph, whom Galway first gave to light, blush at soliciting thy nuptual torch. Ellen Dathy, born of the great John, whom your love drove far from your country.

   Thomas died on the 15th December, 1581 ; he had been married to Johanna Creagh.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 206

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, this is a city where the Arthur family left a deep mark across generations. Nicholas Arthur had six sons, and between them they held nearly every civic honor the place could offer. His third son became bishop of Limerick. Four of the brothers served as mayor. And the sixth was chosen as bailiff by the voice of the people. One of those brothers was Peter. He married Margaret, the daughter of John Budstone, whose bells rang out from the shrine of the Virgin. But Peter was torn from Margaret's arms not long after, leaving two sons as pledges of the marriage. His widow raised them for nine lustres, forty-five years, loving them, as the record says, like a widowed turtle. Then Catherine, the Countess of Kildare, who had been given in marriage to Purdon, took the boys from their mother. One of those sons was William. Margaret made over to him the patrimony his father Budstone had left, houses at Kilmallock, before the doors of the church. She gave him two monuments of her ancestors, both bearing the name Budstone, and a fair part of a chapel dedicated to Magdalen. William loved genius and the arts. He could touch the lyre and harp skillfully. He opened his hospitable house to princely men, and the renowned Earl of Desmond bound him in friendship. He too became bailiff by the voice of the people. He married Ellen Dathy, born of the great John, whom Galway first gave to light. Thomas, another of the family, died on the 15th of December, 1581. He had been married to Johanna Creagh.

6. Augustine Nunnery chapel, Peter's Cell

   Peter's Cell · street · Limerick · 1689–1775

   Soon after the Revolution, Presbyterians in Limerick rented the chapel of the old Augustine Nunnery in Peter's Cell as their place of worship, before building their own premises in Peter Street in 1775.

   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 Peter's Cell, the Presbyterians of Limerick rented the chapel of the old Augustine Nunnery soon after the Revolution. That served as their place of worship before they built their own premises in Peter Street in 1775, with a house for the minister, at a cost of 500 pounds. Their later meeting house stood in Glentworth Street, near the Dominican church. The Presbyterian community in Limerick had grown with the arrival of several Scotch families, whose descendants became merchants and were respectably employed in the city.

7. Augustinian Hermits convent founded in Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1200–1299

   A convent of the Order of the Hermits of St. Augustine was founded at Limerick in the thirteenth century by O'Brien of the royal race of Limerick and Thomond. Its site is said to have been where the city court-house once stood in Quay Lane.

   Read the passage

   First then in order of time, as in extent of their privileges, come the regular canons of St. Augustine,' a distinct order from that of his hermits, and originated in the regular community founded by St. Augustine in his own house. The order of the Hermits of St. Augustine, according to the learned Alban Butler and the ancient writers, dates its foundation from so early an epoch as a.d. .S88, when it was established by the great saint himself. The convent of the order of the Hermits of St. Augustine was founded at Limerick in the tliirteenth century by O'Brien of the royal race of Limerick and Thomond.- Its site is said to have been where the city court-house once stood in Quay Lane. Both Canons and Hermits were branches of the same illustrious order, with which, in Ireland at least, no other could stand in competition, being as great in this country as the Benedictines were in England. There were also ancient foundations of Augustinian nuns in Ireland, and all these foundations for men and women were represented in the city of Limerick, where the Augustinian nuns were called the Canonesses of St. Augustine.

   According to Sir James Ware, a priory for regular Canons of St. Augus-

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 369

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, you are near the site of an old convent of the Order of the Hermits of St. Augustine, founded here in the thirteenth century. O'Brien, of the royal race of Limerick and Thomond, was its founder. The site is said to have been where the city court-house once stood in Quay Lane. The order of the Hermits of St. Augustine dates its foundation from as early as 388, established by the great saint himself, according to the learned Alban Butler and ancient writers. The regular canons of St. Augustine were a distinct order from the hermits, originating in the regular community founded by St. Augustine in his own house. Both canons and hermits were branches of the same illustrious order, which in Ireland no other could stand in competition with, being as great in this country as the Benedictines were in England. There were also ancient foundations of Augustinian nuns in Ireland, and all these foundations for men and women were represented in Limerick, where the Augustinian nuns were called the Canonesses of St. Augustine.

8. Baggotstown castle — Tudor remains

   Baggotstown · townland · Limerick

   Baggotstown castle, nearly two miles south of Knockany, is a double structure with arched naval stairs and an attached Tudor remain. One surviving wall has large cross-barred mullioned windows and a bartizan at the angle. The handsome chimney shafts with open ribbed crowns are of a later period than the original castle, placed on its gables.

   Read the passage

   Kilballyowen (O'Grady) is about a mile to the west. Turned aside to Baggotstown castle, a double structure, one of the roses, arched naval stairs; and attached to it a Tudor remain. One wall only, with large cross-barred muUioned windows, a bartizan at angle. The chimney shafts handsome, with open ribbed crown. They are, doubtless, of a far later period than the original castle, on whose gables they have been placed. Baggotstown is nearly two miles south of Knockany. Bulgaden, a stump of a square castle, also a handsome moat of larger extent than those seen earlier in the day. It is called Rathbawn, and its height above the level of the sea is three hundred and seventy -four feet, on the ordnance sheet.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 433

9. Bishop Creagh recovers Donoughmore lands for the church

   Donaghmore · townland · Cork · 1459–1472

   William Creagh, a native of Limerick consecrated bishop in 1459, recovered the lands of Donoughmore for the church, which had been usurped by others. During his time the organist's salary was 6s. 8d. per annum.

   Read the passage

   William Creagli, a native of Limerick, succeeded John Mothel by Papal provision, on the resignation of the latter, and was consecrated in 1459. He occupied the see about thirteen years. He recovered for the church the lands of Donoughmore, according to the Black Book, which were usurped by others." The salary of the organist in his time was 6s. 8^d. per annum.' He was a distinguished member of a highly distinguished family, which gave archbishops and bishops to the Church, commanders to the army, chief magistrates to the city, and which traces its pedigree to Eugenius, son of ISial of the Nine Hostages, son of Eochaymoyvegau, several nionarchs of Ireland having been of the family.^

   ]\Iost pi'obably it was during the reign of this prelate that the Galway monument, or, at all events, the principal portion of that very remarkable monument, was erected in the cathedral, the inscription on which has been much defaced, no doubt purposely, and most probably by the soldiers

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 331

10. Bishop of Limerick's mansion house under Act of Settlement

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    A house in the City of Limerick was set out to the Lord Bishop of Limerick for seven years under the Act of Settlement, together with a waste plot of ground and four ruinous tenements rented at £20 per annum. It was enacted to be annexed to the See of Limerick forever as the bishop's mansion-house.

    Read the passage

    > The house chosen by " John Lord Bishop of Limerick," in the City of Limerick, and set out to him for seven years, according to the Act of Settlement, together with that small waste plott of ground, and 4 ruinous tenements therein, which he rents at £20 per annum, lying on the back side of the said dwelling-house, equal with the part thereof, &c. &c. &c. — enacted to be annexed unto the See of Limerick for ever, and to be the mansion-house of the Bishop and hi» successors — Meriion's Abridgment of the Act 0/ Settlement, c. xH.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 108

11. Bishop Peter Curragh persecutes Franciscan Friars of Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1376

    In 1376, Bishop Peter Curragh alias Creagh of Limerick excommunicated anyone who attended the Franciscan church for divine service or sought burial in their abbey. He allegedly laid violent hands on Philip Torrington, Archbishop of Cashel, who came to Limerick to redress the friars' grievances, tearing a citation from the archbishop with such force that he drew blood.

    Read the passage

    As we have already seen, Peter Curragh alias Creagh, Bishop of Limerick, in the year 1376, treated the Franciscan Friars with much

    654 HISTORY OF LIMERICK.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 376

    As the companion tells it

    Limerick. In 1376, Peter Curragh, also called Creagh, Bishop of Limerick, treated the Franciscan Friars with much severity. He excommunicated anyone who attended their church for divine service or sought burial in their abbey, and laid violent hands on Philip Torrington, Archbishop of Cashel, tearing a citation from him with such force that he drew blood.

12. Burial of Nicholas and Catherine Arthur at St. Mary's

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1465–1475

    Catherine Arthur, who died in 1475, was buried alongside her husband Nicholas in the ancestral monument at the left wing of the altar of St. Catherine in the Church of St. Mary's, Limerick.

    Read the passage

    At length yielding to fatal necessity, having made his will on the vigil of the nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, A.D. 1465, and having received the holy viaticum of our Lord's body, and being fortified by the Sacrament of Extreme Unction, he fell asleep in the Lord. Catherino survived him full ten years and seven days, devoted to works of piety and mercy, and at length departed this life for a better on the feast of the exaltation of the holy cross, on the 13th calends of October (14th September), in the year of our Lord's incarnation 1475 ; and her body was laid with that of her husband in the ancestral monument at the left wing of the altar of St. Catherine, " Virgin and Martyr," (in the Church of St. Mary's Limerick.")

    We fear that not a few of our readers may be of opinion that in giving some of the above details, which we have translated word for word from the original, we have laid as great a stress on trifles as Dr. Burnet in Pope's impersonations of that historian, in the celebrated memoirs of " P. P. Clerk of the Parish." But such miimtioe give us a better insight into the character of our ancestors than much more imposing generalities.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 207

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Limerick, you pass near the Church of St. Mary's, where Nicholas and Catherine Arthur lie in an ancestral monument at the left wing of the altar of St. Catherine, Virgin and Martyr. Nicholas made his will on the vigil of the nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1465. He received the holy viaticum of our Lord's body and was fortified by the Sacrament of Extreme Unction, and then he fell asleep in the Lord. Catherine survived him ten years and seven days, devoted to works of piety and mercy. She departed this life on the feast of the exaltation of the holy cross, the 14th of September, 1475, and her body was laid with that of her husband in that monument in St. Mary's. The author who recorded these details translated them word for word from the original, and defended giving such small particulars, saying they give a better insight into the character of our ancestors than much more imposing generalities.

13. Callachan selects Limerick for first attack on Danes

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 920

    Callachan, King of South Munster, assembled his chiefs and exhorted them to arm against the Danes, selecting Limerick as their first target. A thousand chosen followers marched under his command, joined by chiefs including O'Donovan, O'Sullivan, O'Keeffe, and O'Reardan.

    Read the passage

    * " Callachan, King of Soutli Mnnster. as.xembling his chiefs, exhorted them to arm everj'- where against the Danep, Mhereupon Limerick was selected for their first attack. A thousand of

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Limerick. In 920, Callachan, King of South Munster, gathered his chiefs and called on them to arm against the Danes. Limerick was chosen for the first attack. A thousand chosen followers marched under him, joined by chiefs O'Donovan, O'Sullivan, O'Keeffe, and O'Reardan.

14. Carrigaholt Castle taken by Ludlow

    near Carrigaholt · townland · Clare

    Carrigaholt Castle is noticed and was taken by Ludlow during the Cromwellian campaign.

    Read the passage

    Cartigaholt castle, 303.

    Carrigogunnel castle, account of, 76 ; in 1535, 77.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Carrigaholt Castle. It is noted in the records, listed simply alongside other strongholds of the region.

15. Castleconnell village and the falls of Doonas

    Castleconnell · town · Limerick

    Castleconnell, six miles from Limerick on the Shannon, is described as a neat village backed by noble demesnes and woods. The rapids of the Shannon begin just below the village at the falls of Doonas, where the river pours through large rocks for nearly half a mile.

    Read the passage

    Castleconnell (anc. Carrig-Conuil), a post-town, six miles n. k. by N. of Limerick, happily described by Inglis as "a little village of neat, clean country houses, situated close to the Shannon, and backed and flanked by noble demesnes and fine spreading woods". Just below the village commence the rapids of the Shannon, which is 40 feet deep, and 300 yards wide above them, pouring an immense volume of water through and above a congregation of liuge rocks, which extend nearly half a mile. These are the falls of Doonas. N. P. Willis says the Shannon here, for a considerable distance, resembles the rapids of the St. Lawrence. Castleconnell is " surrounded by every kind of beauty, fine mansions, green lawns, and lofty towers", and Inglis truly says that none of the Welsh waterfalls, nor the Griesbach in Switzerland, can compare with these famous falls.

    The castle stands on the summit of an isolated rock close by the town, and within a short distance of the river Shannon, and was built by Conal, a native chieftain; afterwards a seat of the O'Briens, Kings of Thomond, and in which a grandson of Brien Boru is said to have been treacherously murdered by the reigning prince.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 428

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming up to Castleconnell, a post-town six miles north by northeast of Limerick, sitting close to the Shannon. Inglis called it a little village of neat, clean country houses, backed and flanked by noble demesnes and fine spreading woods. Just below the village the rapids of the Shannon begin. Above them the river is 40 feet deep and 300 yards wide, pouring an immense volume of water through a congregation of huge rocks that extend nearly half a mile. These are the falls of Doonas. N. P. Willis said the Shannon here resembles the rapids of the St. Lawrence for a considerable distance. Castleconnell is surrounded by every kind of beauty, fine mansions, green lawns, and lofty towers, and Inglis said that none of the Welsh waterfalls, nor the Griesbach in Switzerland, can compare with these famous falls. The castle stands on the summit of an isolated rock close by the town and within a short distance of the river Shannon. It was built by Conal, a native chieftain, and afterwards became a seat of the O'Briens, Kings of Thomond. A grandson of Brien Boru is said to have been treacherously murdered there by the reigning prince.

16. Castlehaven overruns Munster strongplaces

    Cappoquin · town · Waterford · 1645

    Confederate General Castlehaven took to the field with 6,000 men in the spring of 1645, overrunning the country and taking possession of Cappoquin, Mitchelstown, Mallow, Doneraile, the Castle of Liscarroll, and other strong places.

    Read the passage

    On the 21st of July, 1644, Ormonde was duly sworn in Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. About this time Edmond O'Dwyer, afterwaids Bishop of Limerick, where he distinguished himself when Ireton beseiged the city, was sent to Rome by the Confederation, with a memorial to Pope Urban, praying his Holiness to promote Father Luke Wadding to the College of Cardinals. On 17th of July, Lord Inchiquin had addressed a memorial to the Parliament in England, which was signed also by Lord Broghill, Sir Percy Smith, and other distinguished officers, against the cessation of hostilities for a year, which had been signed by Ormond on the part of the King, with Lord Muskerry on the part of the Irish Confederation. Inchiquin was in consequence appomted President of Munster, which had been refused him by the King, and which was the cause of his changing to the side of the Irish Parliament. He was, however, reduced to inactivity at present by the winter and the want of supplies, and in the spring of the next year the Confederate General, Castlehaven was in the field at the head of 6000 men, with whom he overran the country, taking possession of Cappoquin, Mitchelstown, Mallow, Doneraile, the Castle of Liscarrol, and other strong places.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 88

17. Castle on the Salmon Weir captured

    near Salmon Weir · street · Cork · 1691

    An ensign and twenty men posted at the Castle on the Salmon Weir near Limerick were made prisoners during the Williamite advance. A small garrison on St. Thomas's Island also submitted, and two brass field pieces were taken.

    Read the passage

    Clifford, it is certain, was aided by Henry Lutterel in the work of treachery, both having agreed as to what was to be done. It is impossible to depict the dismay and consternation into which these successful movements of the enemy threw the Irish army and the citizens. Sarsfield could have easily prevented the passage of the river; but he had heard nothing until all was over. He had been at the horse camp, and it was too late, when he became acquainted with the disastrous result. The Irish now broke down the bridge, which had been erected by PitzAndrew Creagh some forty or fifty years before ; this movement however was not attended with any advantage. An attempt was made to seize the records, the chief personages of the Irish government, the treasure, and the ladies who occupied a house about a mile from Thomond bridge ; but this did not succeed. ^ At the Castle on the Salmon Weir, au ensign and twenty men were posted ; these were made prisoners. A small garrison on St. Thomases Island submitted, and two brass field pieces were taken. It had been made a matter of boast that the English lost but one sergeant, and that there were but twenty of theirs men wounded throughout the day. Captain Taaff, another deserter, reported to Ginkle that the city was almost without bread, and that the shell and shot had done mischief to an extraordinary extent. Ginkle at this juncture issued a proclamation in the names of WiUiam and Mary, offering ''Pardon of then* offences, Kestitution of their Estates, Reward of their Services, and all the Benefits promised by the Lords Justices in their Proclamation of the 7th of July,^^ if they submitted within eight days, " from which they are not debarred by any Act of Parhament, as they are falsely made to believe by some persons who live by sacrificing their country to the Tyranny and Ambition of Prance, and ought for that reason be excluded from Mercy by both sides.'^ The Irish leaders spurned the proposal.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 142

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Salmon Weir, in 1691, a castle stood that held an ensign and twenty men. They were posted there, and they were made prisoners when the Williamite advance came through. Clifford was aided by Henry Lutterel in the work of treachery, both having agreed as to what was to be done. These successful movements of the enemy threw the Irish army and the citizens into dismay and consternation. Sarsfield could have easily prevented the passage of the river, but he had heard nothing until all was over. He had been at the horse camp, and it was too late when he became acquainted with the disastrous result. The Irish broke down the bridge, which had been erected by PitzAndrew Creagh some forty or fifty years before, but this was not attended with any advantage. An attempt was made to seize the records, the chief personages of the Irish government, the treasure, and the ladies who occupied a house about a mile from Thomond bridge, but this did not succeed. A small garrison on St. Thomas's Island submitted, and two brass field pieces were taken. It was made a matter of boast that the English lost but one sergeant, and that there were but twenty of their men wounded throughout the day. Captain Taaff, another deserter, reported to Ginkle that the city was almost without bread, and that the shell and shot had done mischief to an extraordinary extent. Ginkle at this juncture issued a proclamation in the names of William and Mary, offering pardon of their offences, restitution of their estates, reward of their services, and all the benefits promised by the Lords Justices in their proclamation of the 7th of July, if they submitted within eight days. The Irish leaders spurned the proposal.

18. Cathedral improvements by Mayor James Harold commemorated on tablet

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1521–1551

    During Bishop John Quin's episcopacy, improvements were made to the cathedral by Mayor James Harold. A rudely cut tablet with relieved Roman letters, now inserted in the wall of the north transept, was brought from near the O'Dea monument during alterations in 1861.

    Read the passage

    ford and Lismore, andJames O'Conin, Bishop of Killaloe, also assisted. At this synod power Avas given to the mayor of Limerick to imprison ecclesiastical debtors, until they made satisfaction to their creditors, without incurring danger of excommunication. The privilege was sought for by Nicholas' Stritch, mayor, for himself and his successors, but a doubt is expressed that the concession was vahd.^ The clergy arraigned the decree as a violation of their canonical privilege ; and judging from the brief record of the event in the Arthur MSS., it would seem that the laity were not in favour of it, whatever cause may have impelled the mayor to demand a power hitherto unknown in the municipal annals. Whilst John Quin was bishop, there were improvements made in the cathedral by James Harold, mayor, which we find by a rudely cut tablet, inserted in recent years, in the wall of the north transept of the cathedral. The letters are relieved Roman, and the tablet was brought from another part of the cathedral, near the O'Dea monument, during the alterations in 1861 :

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 332

19. Catholic Bishops summoned to conference at Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1649

    Ormond summoned twenty-four Catholic Bishops to attend him at Limerick to confer with them and the nobility on measures for the King's service. The Bishops agreed to propositions requiring accounting for levied monies and a privy council of native nobility.

    Read the passage

    CromwelLj having taken the field in 1649;, perpetrated the most revolting excesses. The Province of Connaught, however, continued in the hands of the Cathohcs, whilst Waterford, Limerick, and Galway, were so strong as to be capable of resisting the advances of Ireton, the son-in-law and Heutenantgeneral of Cromwell. These cities, too, hoped for succours from sea, and feared no force that could be brought against them. The forts of Duncaunon and Sligo, the castles of Athlone, Charlemont, Carlow, and Nenagh, were in the hands of the Catholics also. Strength and numbers were of no avail, however, without union, and we have seen already how deficient in that essential element were the councils of the Cathohc party — parties, we should say — for the CathoHcs were split up into contending factions. Ormond allowed the Catholics to select a leader in place of CNeil ; the choice fell upon M'Mahon, the Catholic Bishop of Clogher, who not only stood high in the estimation of Ormond, but possessed great favour with the Ulster Irish. ^ M^Mahon saw the necessity of the whole nation uniting together as one man for their defence j he laboured so hard with the clergy that he got them to enter into a superficial union at least, to bury in forgetfulness all that had passed ; to enter into solemn resolutions that for life, fortune, religion, they could expect no security from Cromwell ; to express their detestation of all animosity between the old Irish and the English and the Scotch Eoyalists, and their resolution to punish all the clergy who should encourage them. Brave and courageous in his new capacity, but deficient in experience and generalship, M'^Mahon was defeated with great loss in a battle at Letterkenny, by Sir Charles Coote. Ormond at once cast his eyes on Limerick, " a place of the utmost consequence, and which soon would be attempted by the Parliament forces.''^ Having come to Limerick, he endeavoured to persuade the citizens to receive fifteen hundred infantry soldiers and three hundred cavalry, as the only means of saving the kingdom ; this proposal Avas rejected ; and Ormond attributed its rejection to the influence of the clergy. He summoned twenty-four of the CathoHc Bishops to attend him at Limerick, that he might confer with them and some of the nobility, and resolve, on their advice and assistance, on effectual measures for the advancement of the King^s service and that of the people. A conference was held, in which the Bishops agreed to certain propositions which they presented to Ormond for the removal of the discontents ; they required that the Receiver General should account for the monies levied since the peace, and that a privy council should be composed of the native nobility, spiritual and temporal, to assist the Government. Ormond consented. The Bishops then published a declaration that they would root out of menu's hearts all jealousies and sinister opinions of Ormond and the Government, desiring his further directions, and promising, on their part, the utmost care and industry. These proceedings partially changed the determination of the citizens of Limerick — but events proved that the change

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 93

20. Citizens sought possession of King's Island

    King's Island · townland · Limerick · 1842–1843

    An object of great importance for Limerick citizens was to obtain possession of the King's Island. City and county representatives enlisted influence in the cause, but obstacles were thrown in the way and a treaty with the Commissioners of Woods and Forests ended without result.

    Read the passage

    An object of very great importance for the citizens was to obtain possession of the King's Island. The influence of the city and county representatives was enlisted in the cause ; but there were serious obstacles thrown in the way, and a treaty with the Commissioners of Woods and Forests for the sale ended without auy result.^

    As a mark of appreciation of the services of brave Limerick men abroad, a vote of thanks was passed by the Council, on the 2nd of January, 1843, to Sir Hugh Gough, his aide-de-camp. Captain Gabbett,* Major John Sargent,^ and his son, Ensign Sargent,* of the Royal Irish Regiment, and Captain Thomas Bourchier, R.N., five Limerick heroes, for their distinguished and noble conduct in China, but without expressing any opinion on the character of the war in China.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 285

21. Coach service from Limerick to Tralee via Adare and Glin

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1821

    A coach between Limerick and Tralee commenced running on 29 September, leaving Limerick at 11.5 a.m. and arriving at Tralee at 11 p.m. The route passed through Patrick's Well, Adare, Crough, Rathkeale, New Bridge, Foynes, Loughill, Glin, Tarbert, Listowel, and O'Dorney.

    Read the passage

    September 29th.— The coach between Limerick and Tralee commenced running this day Leaves Limerick at 1 1| a.m., and arrives at Tralee at 1 1 p.m. : returns rom Tralee at 3 a.m.

    31

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 263

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is where a coach to Tralee began running on 29 September 1821. It left Limerick at 11 in the morning and reached Tralee at 11 at night, travelling through Patrick's Well, Adare, Rathkeale, Foynes, Glin, Tarbert, and Listowel on the way. It returned from Tralee at 3 in the morning.

22. Cogan Tower account rendered in Irish Town suburbs

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1430

    In 1430, Mayor Richard Troy and bailiffs Patrick Cogan and Phillip Russell rendered an account of expenses for building Cogan Tower in the eastern wall of the southern suburbs, also called the Irish Town.

    Read the passage

    side of the suburbs is fortified by a wall and tower. The tower was caUed Cogan Tower, and it did not occupy a long time in building, because, in 1430, Richard Troy, mayor, Patrick Coo-an and Phillip Russell, baiUifs, rendered an account of the expenses of building Cogan Tower in the eastern wall of the southern suburbs, Hen. VL (Arthur AISS.). This tower lay on the east walls of the suburbs of the Irish town " Richard Troy being mayor" ( White's MSS.) In 1434, Gerald Earl of Kildare being Lord Depirty, a parliament was held here (22nd

    Ewd. IV.). , . . , . .

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 401

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick, you are passing near the southern suburbs once called the Irish Town. That side of the suburbs was fortified by a wall and tower. The tower was called Cogan Tower, and it did not take long to build. In 1430, Richard Troy, the mayor, with bailiffs Patrick Cogan and Phillip Russell, rendered an account of the expenses of building Cogan Tower in the eastern wall of the southern suburbs, in the time of Henry the Sixth. The tower lay on the east walls of the suburbs of the Irish Town. In 1434, Gerald, Earl of Kildare, being Lord Deputy, a parliament was held here.

23. Commission of Inquiry held in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1833

    A Commission of Inquiry into corporate corruption was held in Limerick from 30th September to 11th October 1833. It laid bare the works of corporate corruption in the city.

    Read the passage

    Nothing continued to prosper under the corrupt corporation system of the day. The city revenues became worthless for the public good. The great Lax weir had fallen away. Mr. Poole Gabbett having been declared the highest bidder for it, at a meeting of the Corporation on the 6th of January, 1834, it was resolved that his proposal of £300 a-year be accepted, and a lease granted to him for 99 years, on the same terms as heretofore held by Mr. Little. The works of Corporate corruption, however, had become fully laid bare, in consequence of the Commission of Inquiry which was held in Limerick from the 36th of September to the 11th of October, 1833.

    O'Connell was now stirring the popular mind to its very depths, and no where was he more ardently responded to than in Limerick. Early in the year 1834, he published a manifesto to the people of Ireland in favor of a Eepeal of the Union — and thus "nailed his colours to the mast''; the anti-tithe movement, which embraced the greater portion of the country in its immense proportions, went hand in hand with a demand for a Parliament in College Green ; the minister trembled, and Irishmen showed that they were in earnest by a quick response to the caU of the great Leader. Mr. William Roche and Mr. David Eoche, members for the city, declared in favor of the great national question. The popularity of Mr. Spring Rice, to whom a colossal pillar and life-like statue had been a few years previously erected in Pery Square by his appreciative fellow -citizens, had been for some time on the wane, and was now completely forfeited by the decided opposition which he offered to the cause of Repeal, and he fell rapidly in the esteem of even those ardent admirers of his who for several years had followed his chariot wheels as they rolled in triumph over the prostrate faction of the corruptionists in Limerick. The debate on O'Connell's motion in the House of Commons in AprU this year (1834) for a Committee of Enquiry on the

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 277

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Limerick, you are in a city where a Commission of Inquiry sat from the 30th of September to the 11th of October 1833, and laid bare the works of corporate corruption. The city revenues had become worthless for the public good. The great Lax weir had fallen away. At a meeting of the Corporation on the 6th of January 1834, Mr. Poole Gabbett was declared the highest bidder for it, and his proposal of £300 a year was accepted. A lease was granted to him for 99 years, on the same terms as heretofore held by Mr. Little. Nothing had prospered under the corrupt corporation system of the day, and now the Commission had exposed it fully. O'Connell was stirring the popular mind to its depths, and nowhere was he more ardently responded to than in Limerick. Early in 1834 he published a manifesto to the people of Ireland in favour of a Repeal of the Union, and thus, as the book says, he nailed his colours to the mast. The anti-tithe movement went hand in hand with a demand for a Parliament in College Green. The minister trembled. Irishmen showed they were in earnest by a quick response to the call of the great leader. Mr. William Roche and Mr. David Roche, members for the city, declared in favour of the great national question. Mr. Spring Rice, to whom a colossal pillar and life-like statue had been erected a few years previously in Pery Square by his fellow citizens, had been on the wane, and now completely forfeited popularity by his decided opposition to the cause of Repeal. He fell rapidly in the esteem of even those who had followed him as he rolled in triumph over the prostrate faction of the corruptionists in Limerick.

24. Consecration of Bishop John Young at St. Mary's Chapel

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1793

    Dr. John Young was consecrated Coadjutor-Bishop of Limerick on Whit-Monday, 20 May 1793, at St. Mary's Chapel in Limerick. The ceremony was performed by Archbishop Bray of Cashel, assisted by bishops of Limerick, Killaloe, Waterford, Cork, Kerry, and Cloyne.

    Read the passage

    Previously to tlie death of Dr. Conway, and owing to his increasing infirmities, the Holy See appointed the Right Rev. John Young, bishop of Maxula, in pariibus infidelium, and Coadjutor-Bishop of Limerick, and he was consecrated on Whit-Monday, the 20th of May, 1793, at St. Mary's chapel, Limerick, by the Most Rev. Dr. Bray, Archbishop of Cashel, assisted by the Right Rev. Dr. Conway, Bishop of Limerick, Right Rev. Dr. MacMahon, the venerable Bishop of Killaloe, the Right Rev. Dr. Egan, Bishop of Waterford, the Right Rev. Dr. Moylan, Bishop of Cork, the Right Rev. Dr. Teahan, Bishop of Kerry, and the Right Rev. Dr. Coppinger, Bishop of Cloyne. Dr. Young was a native of the city of Limerick, and one of its most distinguished and illustrious citizens, whether we regard his great learning, his extraordinary zeal and piety, or the deep interest he took in every measure calculated to advance the best interests of religion and of his country. He was one of the sons of William Young and of Mary Cahill, respectable citizens of Limerick ; he was born in St. John's parish on the 9th of April, 1746 ; was baptized on the 10th of that month; was sent, after his preparatory studies, to Louvain, where he matriculated in 1765 ; he defended his thesis, and took the degree of A.M. in that university on the 11th October in 1770; was ordained subdeacon in December, 1768; on the 23rd of September, 1769, deacon; September 23rd, 1770, priest; deputed missionary to Ireland, 1771; was curate of St. John's, and Dean and Parish Priest of St. Mary's. His first appointment as parish priest was to that of Bruff, and he was consecrated bishop, as we have just noticed, on the 20th of May, 1793.' Called to the active and onerous duties of the episcopacy in troubled and anxious times — in times of great peril hkewise. Dr. Young at all times acted with prudence, firmness, and independence, which formed the most prominent ieatures of his exalted character. He showed a bold front to the oppressors of his country on the one hand, whilst on the other he resolutely set his face against the wild and delusive schemes which just at this critical juncture were set afloat by the unhappy policy which resulted a few years afterwards in the horrors and atrocities of '98. He subscribed to the defence fund which was raised in Limerick when the French again menaced an invasion of Ireland. He became an active member of the defence committee which was formed for that purpose ; and he thus showed that true and ardent patriotism, the deepest attachment to his religion, the purest piety, and the widest charity, were not inconsistent with loyalty to the throne and a deference to laws which, even yet, scarcely recognized the legal existence of Catholics, and which then proscribed and outraged the Catholic priesthood and hierarchy.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 363

25. Consecration of Bishop Ryan at St. John's Chapel

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1825

    In December 1825, Dr. John Ryan was consecrated Catholic Bishop of Limerick in St. John's old Chapel, Limerick. The ceremony was performed by Archbishop Dr. Lanigan of Cashel and Emly.

    Read the passage

    The Kmits to which we are necessarily confined will not permit us to do more than take a rapid glance over a wide field of events, commencing with 1825, in the last month of which year the Right Rev. Dr. John Ryan was consecrated Catholic Bishop of Limerick in St. John's old Chapel, by the Most Rev, Dr. Lafian, Archbishop of Cashel and Emly ; and passing on through the struggle for Cathohc Emancipation — the glorious victory in Clare in 1828 — the remarkable contemporaneous events, and those which followed — the agitation for a repeal of the denationalising act of Union, for Parliamentary and for Corporate reform — the triumph of the popular cause, the temperance movement, the growth of manufactures, &c,, until we arrive at the last portion of our work, intended to illustrate the civil and military history of Limerick. In a subsequent part of the History, devoted to the Bishops, the Churches, the Religious Houses, the list of Mayors, and the enumeration of the charters, &c., granted to the Corporation, we shall supply what may possibly be omitted in these chapters. It is true that the history of the three great movements for Emancipation, Reform, and Eree Trade, is still to be written in formal book shape, but the leading circumstances connected with these movements are so much identified with the general history of Ireland, that a mere passing reference to them is all that will be expected in this History.

    There was no city in Ireland for which O'Connell had entertained more affection than for Limerick : it was in Limerick, in 1821, that he issued two of his most remarkable letters in reference to the controversy which he then had with Mr. Shell on the subject of Mr. Plunket's Bill in reference to the Catholic Clergy. These letters appeared in a local journal, which has long since ceased to exist. ^ It was in Limerick that he ordered the waiter of the bar mess to take the shoes of Mr. M'^Mahon (afterwards Sir WiUiam M'Mahon, Master of the Rolls,) from the fire-place, where they had been put inside the fender to air by an obsequious barrister, O'Connell stating, in the presence

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 274

26. Consecration of Dr. Ryan at St. John's Church, Limerick

    Saint John's Church · ecclesiastical site · Cork · 1825

    The Right Rev. Dr. Ryan was consecrated as coadjutor bishop to Dr. Tuohy in the old parish Church of St. John's on the 11th of December, 1825. Ryan, a native of Thurles, had been parish priest of Doon before his elevation to the episcopacy.

    Read the passage

    A few years previous to the death of Dr. Tuohy, his lordship had called on the Court of Rome to issue a mandate for the election of a coadjutor to assist him in the weighty cares which had pressed so severely and anxiously on him. Dr. Tuohy desired that the Very Rev. W. A. O'Meara, Provincial of the Franciscan order, a native of Limerick, but then resident in Cork, should be his coadjutor, and forwarded his name to Rome. Finally, however, after some demurring on the part of a portion of the secular clergy, the Holy See thought fit, after due deliberation, to refer the question to the Most Rev. Dr. Laffan, Archbishop of Cashcl, who selected for the high dignity the Rev. John Ryan, a priest of the archdiocese of Cashel, and a native of the parish of Thurles, county of Tipperary, and who had been parish priest of Doon. Dr. Ryan received the rudiments of his education in Thurles, and at an early age Avas sent by the Most Rev. Doctor Bray, Archbishop of Cashel, to ]\Iaynooth College, where he became a distinguished contemporary of many of those admirable ecclesiastics who were destined in after years to fill exalted places in the church. Called to the episcopacy as coadjutor bishop to the Right Rev. Dr. Tuohy, the consecration of the Right Rev. Dr. Ryan took place in the old parish Church of St. John's on the 11th of December, 1825.^ Tliough his predecessors had done much for the advancement of religion, it remained for Dr. Ryan not only to perfect the glorious work in which

    ' In 1821, Bishop Jebb, who might often he seen arm-in-arm with some Catholic priest or other, addressed the people after Mass from the altar of the Roman Catholic church of Murroe, with a view to dissuade them from secret societies. The congregation were affected to tears.— Forster's Life of Jebb.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 366

27. County Limerick Court-house foundation and opening

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1807–1809

    The foundation of the County of Limerick Court-house was laid on 1 September 1807 on land purchased from Colonel Prendergast Smyth for £500. The building, designed by brothers Nicholas and William Ramion, was opened for business at summer assizes on 17 July 1809.

    Read the passage

    It was on the 1st of September in the same year that the foundation was laid of the County of Limerick Court-house. Colonel Prendergast Smyth got £500 for the ground up to low water mark. The building, at the time was deemed very handsome; its greatest length externally, 121 feet; its greatest breadth ditto, 94 feet ; Crown Court and Eecord Court, 50 feet by 30 feet each; a magnificent Grand Jury Eoom unrivalled in prospect, 41 feet by 25, and 15 feet high ; a very ample hall, 34 feet by 26, and ^0 feet high; and every useful and convenient offices, &c. ; the architects, Messrs. Nicholas and William liamion, brothers, were natives of the County of Limerick — the cost of the entire, without the portico, was £13,000. In the north front are 18 wmdows, and a brake with six Doric pilasters which support an entablature surmounted by an Ionic balustrade of limestone — the first of the kmd erected in the city. It was opened for business at summer assizes, July 17th, 1809. ^

    ' The following inscription was written by a gentleman, and intended to be put up in some place most approved of; —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 239

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Limerick, you pass the County Limerick Court-house, a building whose foundation was laid on 1 September 1807. Colonel Prendergast Smyth received £500 for the ground, down to low water mark. The architects were Nicholas and William Ramion, brothers and natives of the county. At the time it was thought very handsome. Its greatest external length was 121 feet and its greatest breadth 94 feet. The Crown Court and Record Court each measured 50 feet by 30 feet. The Grand Jury Room, described as unrivalled in its prospect, was 41 feet by 25 feet and 15 feet high. The entire cost, without the portico, was £13,000. The north front had 18 windows and six Doric pilasters supporting an entablature, surmounted by an Ionic balustrade of limestone, the first of its kind erected in the city. The court-house opened for business at the summer assizes on 17 July 1809.

28. Courtbrack (Bealus) forfeited by Desmond, granted to Annislie

    Courtbrack · townland · Limerick

    The inquisition of 1615 found that Bealus, alias Courtbrack, was one of the forty ploughlands originally granted to the Leper House. The Earl of Desmond held it in fee; on his attainder Queen Elizabeth granted it to Robert Annislie at three pounds per annum, and by 1615 it was in the possession of the Earl of Thomond.

    Read the passage

    s This inquisition shows the grants of King John to the bishops of Limerick ; the grants of Queen Elizabeth of St. Mary's Priory and its lands at 4d. per acre, to Edmond Sexten, and also the lands of Monksland, Clasknagilly, Branlouge and Inshymore, to the said Edward Sexten ; the grants by letters patent of King Henry III. to the Leper House, near the city of Limerick, of forty ploughlands, one ploughland of which the said master of the said Leper Hospital* held when the inquisition was taken — that Gerald, Earl of Desmond held one ploughland in fee of the land called Corbally, parcel of the said forty ploughlands, that he was attainted of high treason, whereby the ploughland became seized by the Queen Elizabeth who granted the same by letters patent to Robert Annislie, one of the undertakers in the Co. of Limerick, for the yearly rent of forty shillings — that Corbally now (1615) is in the possession of Thomas Gould by conveyance and assignment of Annislie, and that no rent is paid out of it to the Ma3-or and commonality of Limerick. The inquisition found that Bealus, alias Courtbrack, was another of the fortj' ploughlands — that the Earl of Desmond held it in fee, that on his attainder it ivas granted by Queen Elizabeth to Robert Annislie at a rent of three pounds per annum ; and that it is now (1615) in possession of the Earl of Thomond, and paid no rent to the mayor &c. The inquisition further found that half a ploughland called Farranygallogh, parcel of the said forty ploughlands, was in the tenure and occupation of the nunnery of Killone, in the County of Clare, which together with the nunnery and its possessions came unto the cro^^Ti, and was by letters patent granted to the said Baron of Insequine, and is now (1615) in the possession of the Earl of Thomond for which no rent is paid to the mayor &c. The inquisition also found that two parts of two ploughlands in three parts divided in Ratwyrd, being parcel of the said forty ploughlands, came into Queen Elizabeth's hands by the attainder of John Browne, and were by the Queen granted to the said Robert Annislie, out of which £G rent is paid to the King, and that three other parcela of land — viz. Gorteardboher, containing ten acres, Gortrebowley, live acres, Rathgreylan, lifteea acres, with three parcels of land, are accounted for one ploughland, parcel of the said forty ploughlands, and are now in tenure and possession of Phillis White, Simon ffanning, and Edmond Burke of Ballasimon, for which they pay no rent to the mayor &c. The inquisition further finds that certain other such parcels of Gowens lying south near St. John's Gate, and the land of Martui Croft, and Clownegonderiske, containing a ploughland, being part of the forty ploughlands, are now in the tenure of the mayor and commonality of the city, and that the mayor and commonality are seized of the following parcels of land being part of the said forty ploughlands : viz. Park, containing ^ths of a ploughland in possession of Thomas Comyn, held by him from the

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Bealus, also called Courtbrack. An inquisition held in 1615 traced it back to a grant by King Henry the Third to the Leper House near the city of Limerick, of forty ploughlands. Courtbrack was one of those forty. The Earl of Desmond held it in fee. He was attainted of high treason, and on that attainder Queen Elizabeth seized the land and granted it by letters patent to Robert Annislie, one of the undertakers in the County of Limerick, at a yearly rent of three pounds. By 1615, the inquisition found, Courtbrack was no longer in Annislie's hands. It had come into the possession of the Earl of Thomond, and no rent was paid out of it to the mayor and commonality of Limerick. The same inquisition found that another of the forty ploughlands, called Corbally, had followed a similar path. Gerald, Earl of Desmond, held it in fee. On his attainder, Queen Elizabeth granted it to Robert Annislie for a yearly rent of forty shillings. By 1615, Corbally was in the possession of Thomas Gould, by conveyance and assignment from Annislie, and again no rent was paid to the mayor and commonality. The forty ploughlands of the Leper House had thus scattered among various hands. Some, like Courtbrack and Corbally, passed through the Earl of Desmond's attainder and the Queen's grants to undertakers. Others, the inquisition found, were held by the nunnery of Killone in County Clare before coming to the crown and then to the Baron of Insequine, and by 1615 also to the Earl of Thomond.

29. Curious burial customs of the Limerick Palatines

    Rathkeale · town · Limerick

    The Palatine settlers near Rathkeale retained curious customs traceable to Germany, including sleeping between two beds and being buried with a copy of the Bible. They formerly spoke German but had lost their language by the time of writing.

    Read the passage

    Arthur Young, Ferrar, and Mrs. Hall, have given detailed descriptions of these German settlers, whom they describe as an industrious, independent sort of people. They had many curious customs ; such as sleeping between two beds, getting a copy of the Bible to be buried with them, etc. ; besides certain superstitions which are directly traceable to Germany. They used to speak German, but, like the Barony Forth people in Wexford, they have now lost their language.

    Connected with the establishment of the Palatines in the countv ol'

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 415

30. Daniel O'Bryan offers to suppress Irish rising in Clare

    near Clare · population centre · Clare · 1666

    Colonel Daniel O'Bryan of Clare assured Orrery he was ready to suppress any rising of the Irish in that county, where he informed him there were many ill-inclined Irish.

    Read the passage

    At this time OiTery received a seasonable and welcome assurance from Colonel Daniel O^Bryan of Clare, that he was ready to suppress any rising of the Irish that might take place in that County, m which the Colonel informed him there were many HI inchncd Irish. ^ It was in the same year, 1666, that a plot was disclosed to the Duke of Ormonde by Captain Oliver, a gentleman of the County Limerick, the alleged object of which was the removal of the King and Lords, the restoration of the Long Parliament, several of whose members were said to be imphcated, and the substitution of a ^^ sober ministry for bishops.""' The conspirators, it was added, expected assistance.^ They were of course Cromweliians.

    I have already referred to Ormondes exertions to introduce the woollen manufacture into Ireland, in which he was successful, as also the manufacture of hnen :^ this was in 1667, a year rendered stiU further remarkable by the occurrence of a most \dolent storm and a spring tide, which did not ebb for fourteen hours, and which, according to AVhite's MSS. rose to the Courthouse in Quay Lane, forced up one of the arches of BalFs Bridge, overflowing the shops and houses thereon, carrying away entire houses and quantities of com, levelling the banks of the river and wrecking several vessels.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 116

31. Dedication of Redemptorist high altar in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1865

    An elaborate Gothic high altar and reredos of Irish and French marble was erected in the Redemptorist Church, described as the most important work of religious art in Great Britain. The altar was dedicated on 15 October 1865 by Bishop Butler of Limerick, with the sermon preached by Dr. Carbery, prior of St. Saviour's.

    Read the passage

    The altar was unveiled and solemnly dedicated to public worship on Sunday, the 15th of October, 18t)5, by the Right Rev. Dr. Butler, Lord Bishop of Limerick, assisted by a large number of the clergy. Tlie Very Rev. Dr. Carbery, O.P., prior of St. Saviour's, Limerick, preached on the occasion.

    The whole building is not unworthy of a community who, from the sanctity of their lives, the apostolic simplicity of their manners, and the extensive utility of their pious labours, have gained for themselves the love and respect of all men, and their significant and well merited appellation of the Holy Fathers.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 386

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, there is a Redemptorist church that in 1865 saw the dedication of an elaborate Gothic high altar, made of Irish and French marble. The altar was unveiled and solemnly dedicated to public worship on Sunday, the 15th of October, 1865, by the Right Reverend Dr. Butler, Lord Bishop of Limerick, assisted by a large number of the clergy. The Very Reverend Dr. Carbery, prior of St. Saviour's, Limerick, preached on the occasion. The whole building was said to be worthy of a community who had gained the love and respect of all men, and their name of the Holy Fathers.

32. Defeat at the moat of Grange and scarcity in Limerick

    Grange · townland · Limerick · 1690

    A defeat at the moat of Grange, combined with a growing scarcity of provisions in Limerick, caused dismay among the people. Succours were hourly expected from France but days and weeks passed with hope deferred.

    Read the passage

    December ; new Commissions were given out to the judges, who did not spare the mere Irish. Nefarious laws were enacted. On the 16th of December_, Brigadier Dorrington of the Irish army issued a proclamation from Limerick, in which he stated that all needful accommodation was in readiness for those who chose to transport themselves to Prance.^ In this proclamation, the Brigadier inveighed vehemently against Wilham and his government, and the conduct altogether of WiUiam^s partizans everjnvhere during this crisis. One of William^s very first acts on his arrival in London was to open the Session of Parliament with a speech from the throne, in which he not only spoke of the successes (?) which his arms had in Ireland, notwithstanding the want of pay which his soldiers had endured, but of his relations towards France, the raising of a million of money on the credits of the forfeited estates in Ireland, the maintenance of a force of 67,636 men, a strong navy, new ships, &c. It was also suggested that a return should be given of the names of all those who had been in " rebellion^' in England and in Ireland, in order to the confiscation of their estates, and the applying the proceeds to bear the charges of the war ! Here we have a key to the purpose and the policy of William. He proceeded against his father-in-law, James II. in open " rebellion" — and declared those to be rebels who drew the sword against his usurpation. The question of the forfeited estates was not so easily adjusted, though ultimately it prevailed. The matter was held over for another session, on the recommendation of the House of Lords. Wilham did not feel at ease with his friends ; they were exacting, and he was wilHng, but he could not do all with the desired haste. In disgust he went to Holland, where he arrived after an unpropitious voyage. New " Popish plots" were discovered. Catholics of high position and influence were assassinated under the cover of law. Lord Preston and Mr. Ashton were tried and condemned in England, because they were favorable to James. Never was hatred more insatiate in the darkest days that had gone by. In Limerick, Waterford, Cork, and Tipperary, several brisk actions took place between the Williamite troops and the rapparees. Towards Nenagh a sharp fight occurred between the rapparees and Lieutenant-Colonel Lillington, who first secured a bridge about haK a mile from the town, sent a detachment to occupy a pass towards Limerick, while the rest of his freebooters entering Nenagh — the Irish flying to the Castle for securit}^ — he set fire to the houses, together with stores of malt, and meal, and plundered 300 head of black cattle. Forty or fifty Irish fell in this foray of Lilhngton. Hacking, hunting, and butchering was the course of the WiUiamites.^ People began to tire and sicken of this wearisome warfare. A defeat at the moat of Grange, and a scarcity of provisions which now began to be sensibly felt in Limerick, contributed in no small degree to unnerve and cause dismay to the people. Succours were hourly looked for from Prance ; but days and weeks were passing amid hope deferred, and the good time after aU did not come. However, Tyrconnell, in January, 1691, returned from France to Limerick with three frigates laden with provisions, clothing, arms, and ammunition, and about £8000 in money. Tyrconnell was accompanied by Sir Eichard Nagle and Sir Stephen Eice, in whose hands James had lodged the administration of civil affairs up to the present.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 140

33. Dermot O'Brien buried at Ennis monastery

    Ennis · town · Clare · 1552–1553

    Dermot O'Brien died on the eve of St. Bridget and was buried in the monastery of Ennis, according to the annalists.

    Read the passage

    who was styled Earl, — " a man valiant in making and puissant in sustaining an attack, influential, rich and wealthy/-*' Donough O'Brien succeeded him ; he had a contest with his uncle Daniel, who claimed the Estate by Tanistry ; by the mediation of the Lord Deputy they came to an agreement, when an Indenture Tripartite was made between the Deputy, the Earl, and Daniel O'Brien : the Indenture bears date. May 7th, 1552^. It had but a temporary effect ; the Earl of Thomond and his uncles Donald and Turlogh were again in arms ; they took Clonroad ; the earl defended the castle for a time ; but not long after he was murdered by Donald, his uncle, and the annalists add, that Dermot O'Brien died on the eve of St. Bridget and was buried in the monastery of Ennis.

    If Edward VI. did no good to Limerick, he endeavoured to show his partiaUty for it by granting a charter to the city.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 55

34. Dominick Oge Roche created Baron Tarbert and Viscount Cahirivhalla

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1639

    Dominick Oge Roche, Mayor of Limerick, was created Baron Tarbert and Viscount Cahirivhalla in 1639 by King James II. These titles were never acknowledged by the House of Hanover. He was grandfather of the celebrated Sir Boyle Roche, who died without issue in 1801.

    Read the passage

    Dominick Oge Eoche Mayor of Limerick, in 1639 was created Baron Tarbert and Viscount Cahirivhalla by King James II. titles which were never acknowledged by the House of Hanover. He was grandfather of the celebrated Sir Boyle Roche who died M'ithout issue in 1801.

    The same troubled state of men's minds, the same apprehensions, imaginations, &c,, which occupied the attention of the people in earlier times, continued to disturb them now in 1640. We have a singular evidence of this in a letter preserved in the R. I. A., among the Smith MSS., which relates a curious story of the " enchanted" Earl of Desmond, and his appearance under the form of a Black Horse in the Castle of Castle Connel.^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city gave titles to one of its own mayors. Dominick Oge Roche, Mayor of Limerick, was created Baron Tarbert and Viscount Cahirivhalla in 1639 by King James II. Those titles were never acknowledged by the House of Hanover. He was grandfather of the celebrated Sir Boyle Roche, who died without issue in 1801.

35. Donald O'Brien grants Mungret lands to St. Mary's clergy

    Mungret · town · Limerick

    Donald O'Brien, king of Limerick, granted the lands of Imungran (now Mungret) and the lands of Ivamnach to Brictius and his successors, and to the clergy of St. Mary's of Limerick. The O'Briens were noted as the most generous friends of the Church in Thomond.

    Read the passage

    Harold, an Ostman (by the Irish called Erolb), succeeded, and died in 1151. Turgesius, a Dane also, followed. He assisted at the synod of Kells, which was convened by Cardinal Paparo. Brictius, an Ostman, wag next in succession. He was one of the Irish bishops who assisted at the Council of Lateran, in the years 1179 and 1180. His companions to Eome were Laurence, Archbishop of Cashel ; Constantino, bishop of Killaloe; FeHx, Bishop of Lismore; and Augustine, Bishop of Waterford; who first Avent over to England, took an oath not in any way to act prejudicially to the king's interest while in Rome, and were then permitted to proceed on their journey. Donald O'Brien, king of Limerick, as we have already seen, granted the lands of Imungran, (now Mungret) and the lands of Ivamnach to Brictius and his successors, and to the clergy of St. Mary's of Limerick.

    Indeed the royal O'Briens were the most generous and munificent friends of the Church in these early times. They founded monasteries and churches all over Thomond, and in Limerick their donations and grants partook of the most princely proportions.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 316

36. Douglas encamps at Rathnavaigue hill near Dunkerrin

    Dunkerrin · parish · Offaly · 1690

    Douglas encamped on the north side of the hill of Rathnavaigue near Dunkerrin, where the army rested for a few days. At the Devil's Bit mountain he received a message from William to hasten his march, as rapparees harassed him everywhere.

    Read the passage

    a pistol at the drummer who was sent to him to surrender the fortress^ *' These are m?/ terms/^ exclaimed Grace ; " these only will I give or receive ; and when my provisions are consumed I will defend it till I eat my boots/' hoisting a bloody flag at the moment, and beating back a detachment of 3,000 horse and foot that attempted to cross the Shannon, killing Douglas's best gunner, and compelling the enemy to retreat more rapidly than they had advanced. After this defeat before Athlone, Douglas, with the remnant of his forces made an effort to join King William at Limerick. In doing so he was hourly afraid of falling into the hands of Sarsfield, who, he was aware would make short work of his troops if but the opportunity was thrown in his way. Instead, therefore, of taking the direct route to Limerick, he pursued the road by Ballymore and Ballyboy, avoiding Banagher, where he had heard that Sarsfield awaited him; and, passing through Roscrea, he proceeded by Thurles which he sacked and burned, and Holycross, till he reached the camp at CuUen, where he did not arrive before the 8th of August. When he passed Eoscrea, he encamped on the north side of the hiU of Ptathnavaigue, near Dunkerrin, where the army spent a few days at rest. At the De\'il's Bit mountain a message was received by Douglas from William, to hasten his march, the rapparees every where giving him more than enough to think of. The countrypeople brought quantities of poultry and other provisions to the camp,aU of which were paid for; and here an incident occurred which I have heard from the great grandson of the individual who then hved at Kyleanna, near Clonakenny, in the neighbourhood. This gentleman rode to the camp with several others, having been attracted thither by curiosity. He saw that the grenadiers wore four bells on their waist belts for the purpose of frightening away cavaby ; and it was here the following melancholy occurrence took place : — A soldier who had strayed across the hill to look at the country, sat down to rest, and soon afterwards fell asleep, probably from fatigue; some labourers were working near the spot digging a ditch, and their children who were with them, gathered around the sleejiing soldier, and commenced playing with the bells ; the noise awoke him suddenly, when he ran ofi^ to where his firelock lay, a short distance ; the labourers thinking that he took the musket to fire at the children, one of them (the workmen) threw a stone at the soldier, which hit him on the head and knocked him senseless — the others dispatched him with their spades, and buried him on the spot where the occurrence took place. This was not known to the army, which passed on "ndthout making inquiries after the missing man. A foraging party of the same army was sent down from the camp towards Emmil, where they fell in Avith a large body of the followers of O'CarroU — long Anthony O'Carroll Avho had held the Castle of Nenagh — a conflict ensued — not one of the foraging party, about twelve in number escaped — and to this day the place where this occurred is called the " Bloody Togher" — it lies between Moneygall and Emmil — aU in the King's County.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 122

37. Dr. Arthur receives £10 from Ormond at Loughrea

    Loughrea · town · Galway · 1651

    Dr. Thomas Arthur met Lord Ormond at Loughrea on 21 May 1651 and informed him he had received no recompense for his services. Ormond immediately ordered £10 sterling to be paid from the public treasury, which was paid the next day.

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    That Dr. Arthur was well disposed towards Lord Ormond is evident from many proofs which have been given from time to time of his sentiments, from his practice, as a physician, among those who belonged to the government, &c. I find the following memorandum which I translate in evidence of the fact, in his MSS. *^ On account of the service rendered to him about the 4th of the November, of last year, (1650), when at length on the 21st day of May, of this year. His Excellency Lord James Marquis of Ormond, Viceroy of king Charles the second in Ireland, was at Loughrea, and I made him aware that I received no recompence for my exertions, he decided that I should immediately be paid £10 sterling out of the public treasury, which the treasurer paid me on the next day.''''

    Well indeed may Dr. Prench designate Ormond, " an unkinde deserter of loyal friends.'" Even the king from his retreat in Scotland, sent him a letter in which he expressed regret that a better understanding did not prevail between him and the Nuncio ; but this letter, which had been brought to Waterford by Captain Eoche, Avas not delivered until it was too late, as Colonel Eoche alleged, o"wing to the state of the country between Limerick and that city. The Bishops and Clergy were not supported by the forces they expected from a distance, which Carte attributes to the refractoriness of the Prelates, rather than to the successes of the Cromwellians. A second letter to the same end and purpose was sent by John King, the Dean of Tuam, who arrived from Scotland on the 13th of August, 1650; it conveyed to Ormond irresistible confirmation of the truth, but the fact is, notwithstand-

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 95

38. Dr. Conway visits Father Butler at Cahir Castle

    Caher · town · Tipperary · 1778–1779

    Dr. Conway visited Father Butler at Cahir Castle when Butler was virtually the Bishop of Limerick. Conway met Lord Cahir, described as 'a fine, sober, good man also, who lives like a prince,' and also met the Archbishop of Cashel there, achieving a reconciliation with the Limerick chapter.

    Read the passage

    Whether there were other reasons than those advanced by Father Butler in his letter to the archbishop, which actuated him in his determination not to accept the mitre of Limerick, we are not aware. It is true, indeed, that the majority of the chapter of the diocese of Limerick, including twenty-two beneficed clergymen, had forwarded to the Holy See a protest,^ and that there was much inconvenience felt during the time that had intervened between the death of Dr. O'Kearney and the ultimate settlement of the grave question as to who was to succeed him and govern the diocese, the administration of the affairs of which continued in the hands of Dr. Conway, Vicar Capitular, who resided in Rathkeale, and who often consulted his intimate friend, the Rev. John Young, then curate of St. John's parish, who was destined to succeed to the see of Limerick, and whose learning and piety pointed him out as an able and a safe counsellor in difficulties. Dr. Conway was a learned, ready, gifted, and pious man. He visited Father Butler at Cahir Castle, when that excellent priest was regarded, what he had been for some months, virtually the Bishop of Limerick, but does not appear ever to have visited the diocese. He speaks of Lord Cahir, whom he met during one of these visits, as " a fine, sober, good man also, who lives hke a prince" ; he states that he met the Archbishop of Cashel at Cahir Castle, who received him with cordiality and affability, and that there was a perfect reconciliation in reference to any misunderstanding that might have arisen between his Grace and the chapter of Limerick.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 362

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is the town of Caher in Tipperary. Back in 1778 and 1779, this was where Dr. Conway came to Cahir Castle. Conway was a learned and pious man, serving as Vicar Capitular, running the affairs of the diocese of Limerick after the death of Dr. O'Kearney, while a dispute dragged on about who would succeed him and govern the diocese. He lived in Rathkeale and often turned for advice to his close friend the Reverend John Young, then curate of St. John's parish, a man whose learning and piety marked him as a safe counsellor in hard times. Young was destined to succeed to the see of Limerick himself. Conway came here to Cahir Castle to visit Father Butler, who for several months had been regarded as virtually the Bishop of Limerick, though he never appears to have visited the diocese. Twenty-two beneficed clergymen of the Limerick chapter had sent a protest to the Holy See, and there was much inconvenience in the time between Dr. O'Kearney's death and the final settlement of who would govern. During one of these visits Conway met Lord Cahir, and described him as "a fine, sober, good man also, who lives like a prince." He also met the Archbishop of Cashel at Cahir Castle, who received him with cordiality and affability. By that meeting there was a perfect reconciliation regarding any misunderstanding that had arisen between the Archbishop and the chapter of Limerick.

39. Drowning at the Leap, Doonass

    Doonass · townland · Clare · 1837

    In April 1837, Mr. Craipen, son of Fuller Craven of Gloucester, was drowned in a cot at the fall of the Leap, Doonass, while fishing. Near the same place, six years before, another similar accident had occurred.

    Read the passage

    April 4th Mr. Craipen, son of Puller Craven, Esq., of Gloucester, drowned in a cot at the

    fall of the Leap, Doonass, while fishing. Near the same place, six years before, the Honorable

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 278

40. Earl of Desmond waits on Sidney at Dungarvan Castle

    Dungarvan · town · Waterford · 1575–1576

    From Curraghmore the Lord Deputy proceeded to Dungarvan Castle, where the Earl of Desmond waited on him, humbly offering any service he was able to do the queen. Sidney then passed into Sir John of Desmond's country in the county of Cork.

    Read the passage

    From Curraghmore the Lord Deputy proceeded to Dungarvan Castle, where the Earl of Desmond waited on him, humbly offering him any service that he was able to do the queen.

    From Dungarvan the Deputy passed into Sir John of Desmond's country, in the county of Cork, from which he proceeded to Lord Barry's, and on the 28th of December, arrived at Cork, where he was received " with aU the joyfulness, tokens and shews they could express, and diet and lodge six weeks for half their pay." Here he was waited on by the chief men of the province, all of whom, the letter states, offered all fealty, homage and service to her Majesty, and to hold their lands of her and yield her both rent and service.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 59

41. Early Synod held at Cashel by Irish saints

    Cashel · town · Tipperary

    Cashel was the chief seat of the Kings of Munster, and one of the first Synods of Ireland was held there by St. Patrick, St. Albeus, and St. Declan during the reign of King Engusa.

    Read the passage

    2 Carodacus Shancarvensis (who is quoted by Ware) also says that Cormac was at this time killed by the Danes. Ware adds that he remembers having read in an ancient MS. in the Cottonian Library, that Cormac was killed by a herdsman at Beanree, near Leighlin, while on his knees at prayer, returning thanks to God for the success of his army, which had then been engaged. His body was conveyed to Cashel, and there buried. He was learned particularly in the antiquities of his country. He wrote, in the Irish language, the Psalter of Cashel, which is yet extant, and held in the highest estimation. Ware states that he had some collections from it in an ancient parchment book, called "Psalter Namaan," written 300 years at the time he mentions the fact ; and that, in the same book, there were many miscellanies, partly Irish and partly Latin, collected by ^Engus Celede (Aengus the Culdee), among which there was a bare Catalogue, viz. the names only, of the Kings of Ireland, from Heremon to Brian Boroihme. Our author remarks that Cashel was heretofore the chief seat of the Kings of Munster, and one ©f the first Synods of Ireland was held there by St. Patrick, St. Albeus, and St. Declau, iu the time of King Engusa. — Ware, Keating, Annals of Four Masters, O'Flahertf/. (^x.

    •■' Annals of the Four Masters, Vol. II., p. fiOl).

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Cashel, this was the chief seat of the Kings of Munster. One of the first Synods of Ireland was held here by St. Patrick, St. Albeus, and St. Declan, in the time of King Engusa. The town also holds the burial of Cormac. Carodacus Shancarvensis, quoted by Ware, says Cormac was killed by the Danes. But Ware himself recalls reading in an ancient manuscript in the Cottonian Library that Cormac was killed by a herdsman at Beanree, near Leighlin, while on his knees at prayer, returning thanks to God for the success of his army. His body was conveyed to Cashel and there buried. Cormac was learned in the antiquities of his country. He wrote, in the Irish language, the Psalter of Cashel, which is yet extant and held in the highest estimation. Ware states that he had some collections from it in an ancient parchment book called Psalter Namaan, written 300 years before the time he mentions the fact. In the same book there were many miscellanies, partly Irish and partly Latin, collected by Engus Celede, Aengus the Culdee. Among these was a bare catalogue, the names only, of the Kings of Ireland, from Heremon to Brian Boroihme.

42. Edmond Sexton appointed to collect Limerick fee farm arrears

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Henry VIII authorised Edmond Sexton, sewer of the Chamber, to receive unpaid fee farm arrears from the city of Limerick, dating back to when Richard Fox was first mayor. The annual fee farm was ten pounds, and Sexton's receipt was to be sufficient discharge year by year.

    Read the passage

    inhabitants thereaboutts to our obeysance and due reformation or as the state shall require in prosecuting of the same, the obeyance and indurate mynde so requiring, ye doo tali unto you our said Sexton, and but begin consult whereby the said inhabitants may perceyve our estimaycion and favour born unto hym, by whych means he shall now the better allure them to our obeysance, and consequently by his experience and polyte the rather obtain the desired purposes in our affairs in those quarters." We have also the letters of Henry to Sexton, and of Sexton to Henry. Henry writes a special and lengthy letter commencing " Henry by the Kinge — Trustie and well beloved we grete you well" — returning thanks for the series of services performed, adding " taking you to noit (note) that being advertised how like goode, true, and faithful subjects ye have resisted the malicious enterprises of Thomas Fitzgerald that faulse Traj'tor and Eebell and other his accomplices there, we have thought goode not onle}'e to give unto you our hearty thanks for the same, but also to signifye tmto you that we shall not faile for to remember your integritie declared therein, as shall be to your benefits, wealthe and commoditie hereafter. Ye shall also understande that whereas the fee farm of that our cittie remaineth for sundrie yeares behind and unpaid, sythens (since) our subject Richard Ffox was first maier thereof, we have authorised and appointed our trustie and well beloved servant Edmond Sexton, sewer of our Chamber, to receyve of you to our use the said arrearages soe behind, so unpayed, whose acquitance in that behalf shal be your sufficient discharge as from yere to yere from henceforth to tak and receyeve into his hands our said fee farm being ten pundes bj' the yere till ye shall further know of our pleasure." The letter goes on at further length, as " given under our signet, at our Manor of Langley, the 21st day of September, the * * * yeare of our reigne" — and is addressed " to the Eighte Trustie and well beloved, the Maier, Baylilffes, Aldermenne and Cittizzens of the Citie of Lymerick." Not content with these expressions of favor to the Mayor, Corporation and citizens, Henry wrote to the Council and Corporation of the city as follows : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city carries a story from the reign of Henry the Eighth. Henry wrote a letter to Edmond Sexton, beginning with the words, "Trustie and well beloved, we grete you well." He thanked Sexton for a series of services performed, and noted that Sexton had resisted what he called the malicious enterprises of Thomas Fitzgerald, that false traitor and rebel, and his accomplices. Henry promised he would not fail to remember Sexton's integrity, and that it would be to his benefit, wealth and commodity thereafter. Henry then turned to a money matter. The fee farm of the city of Limerick had gone unpaid for several years, going back to the time when Richard Fox was first mayor. Henry said he had authorised and appointed Edmond Sexton, sewer of his Chamber, to receive those arrears on the king's behalf. Sexton's receipt would be sufficient discharge, year by year. The fee farm was ten pounds by the year, and Sexton was to take and receive it into his hands until further word came from the king. The letter was given under Henry's signet at his Manor of Langley, the 21st day of September, and addressed to the Mayor, Bailiffs, Aldermen and Citizens of the City of Limerick. Henry was not content with that alone. He also wrote separately to the Council and Corporation of the city.

43. English standards paraded through Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    After the Confederate capture of Bunratty, Papal Nuncio Rinuccini caused English standards taken as trophies to be carried through the streets of Limerick, celebrating the victory as a triumph of the Catholic religion.

    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

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city holds a story from the Confederate wars. After the Confederate capture of Bunratty, Papal Nuncio Rinuccini had English standards carried through these streets as trophies of the Catholic religion. The siege of Bunratty had its reversals. Confederate soldiers were posted to invest the castle, but fled in consternation when they heard a noise they took for approaching cavalry. The sergeant commanding them was the first to run. Lord Muskerry made a stern example: the sergeant and ten soldiers were executed on the spot. Lieutenant-Colonel MacAdam, who is admitted by Billing to have been a most skilful and courageous officer, whose loss to the Parliamentarians was irreparable, was killed by an accidental shot from a field piece planted among gabions. His loss was the main cause of Bunratty's capture by the Confederate army. The Parliamentarians had attacked the castles of Rossmanaher, Cappagh, Kenane, and Captain Hunt's castle, and killed many inoffensive country people, who in the diary of operations are called Bogues. Rinuccini remained at Bunratty twelve days, forwarding the batteries and completing the undertaking. When victory crowned the effort with success, he caused the English standards to be carried through the streets of Limerick as trophies of the Catholic religion.

44. Epidemic sickness strikes Limerick, 1740-1741

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1740–1741

    An epidemic sickness prevailed in Limerick city and continued to strike down victims during 1740 and 1741. The Mayor, Joseph Roche, Esq., and several influential citizens were attacked by the disease and lost their lives.

    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 come through Limerick, you're passing through a city that in 1740 and 1741 was struck by an epidemic sickness. The disease spread through the city and continued to claim victims over those two years. The Mayor, Joseph Roche, Esq., and several influential citizens were attacked by the disease and lost their lives. Just before the sickness took hold, a preacher named Whitefield arrived in Limerick from America, preaching the new doctrines of Methodism. He reached the city from Fort Fergus at two o'clock in the afternoon and described Limerick as a large garrison town with a Cathedral in it. He thought the roads were better than any he had seen on his journey, but found the people, in his words, "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, and preached in the Cathedral to a very numerous audience who, he said, "seemed universally affected." He refused an invitation from the Mayor, having been pre-engaged by the Bishop, and left Limerick the next day rather satisfied with his visit. Whitefield saw only the outside of things. While he visited, the epidemic was already prevailing in the city. In 1741, the Custom House of Limerick was burned. The Corporation resumed its operations, causing greater indignation among the highest and the poorest classes than had been felt at any previous period. While they plundered, the city was in a fearfully neglected condition, and the outcry against them was limited to no party or persuasion.

45. Famine and distress across war-torn Ireland

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1599–1601

    Leland recorded horrid accounts of famine and distress in parts of Ireland most exposed to the calamities of war, with prices in Dublin soaring dramatically — wheat rising from thirty shillings to nine pounds per quarter, beef from twenty-six shillings to eight pounds per carcass.

    Read the passage

    * Ibid, p. 410. Leland goes on to say that the horrid accounts of famine and distress in these parts of Ireland most exposed to the calamities of war, can scarcely be suspected to contain falsehood or exaggeration when the effects are considered of those civil commotions in the city of Dublin, which are authenticated by the signature of John Tierch, maj-or, by which it appears that

    Wheat had risen from thirty shillings to nine pounds per quarter ;

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 69

    As the companion tells it

    Passing through Dublin, where between 1599 and 1601 Leland recorded horrid accounts of famine and distress across parts of Ireland most exposed to the calamities of war. Prices in the city soared. Wheat rose from thirty shillings to nine pounds per quarter. Beef went from twenty-six shillings to eight pounds per carcass.

46. Father George Dillon's death in Waterford

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1650

    Father George Dillon, a distinguished theologian and writer of the Society of Jesus, died a martyr of charity in Waterford in 1650, invoking the name of Jesus. He was a cousin of Primates Plunket and Talbot and a son of Robert, the second Earl of Roscommon.

    Read the passage

    Father Christopher Holy wood, S.J., of Ashwood, near Dublin, who was imprisoned in the tower of London for five years, was a near relative of the zealous Protestant Lord Dunsany; and Father Fitzsimon, S.J., of Dublin, tells a damaging story of •' Adam Loftus, an apostate priest, and Lord Primate, who exalted his plentiful brood to knighthood, noble alliance, and lofty estates", and ends by saying: " Let me be believed on the word of a religious man, that not private hate nor any desire to gravel Adam's issue, part whereof is linked to me in kindred, but truth and the glory of God, have occasioned me to narrate the fact, of which I was a witness". Primate Usher's uncle and first cousin, were Jesuits. Father George Dillon, a distinguished theologian and writer, of the Society of Jesus, died a martyr of charity in Waterford in 1650, invoking the sweet name of Jesus; he was a holy, hard-working man, a cousin of Primates Plunket and Talbot, and a son of Robert, the second Earl of Roscommon. The same year, according to our Arthur MSS., J. Dillon, Earl of Roscommon, his brother, fell down twelve steps of stairs in Limerick, and died four days afterwards. In presence of death, he renounced Protestantism, and received the last sacraments, and most probably he owed this grace to the prayers of his brother.

    To return to Father Creagh : he was afterwards professor and superior of Poictiers Irish College, which was founded by the exertions of Father Ignatius Browne, a Waterford Jesuit. This Father Browne, and Father Meade and Father Maurice O'Connell, a man of noble family, and probably of the same stock as the Liberator, formed, as Dr. Oliver says, a glorious triumvirate of the word in those days, and gave missions with wonderful success in the south of Ireland. Another Father Creagh, aged 87, a very holy man, made his simple vows on the 26th February, 1()70, and entered heaven the day after he entered the Society.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 381

47. Four men whipped by garrison drummers in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1798

    Andrew Ryan, Patrick Carroll, Michael Callinan, and Sheehy, charged with having pikes in their possession, were whipped by the drummers of the Garrison in Limerick.

    Read the passage

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

    Letter from Lieut.-Colonel Gough, of the City Militia, dated Edenderry, June 7th :

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 235

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Limerick, this city holds a story from 1798. On June 13, Andrew Ryan, Patrick Carroll, Michael Callinan, and Sheehy were charged with having pikes in their possession. They were whipped by the drummers of the Garrison.

48. Franciscan abbey cloisters and yew tree at Adare

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1464

    The Franciscan abbey within the Adare demesne is well preserved, with a handsome steeple, transept, and three attached chantries. Its cloister square has twelve pointed arches on one side and five-light windows on the others, with an old yew tree in the centre.

    Read the passage

    A Visit to Adare. — On our arrival we entered on the grounds, crossed a double bridge towards the Franciscan abbey, the only one in the demesne, loiind it remarkably well preserved ; a church, handsome steeple in the centre, a transept, and to this last three chantries attached. In the church are several canopied niches. The plan of all appears much the same as that of Askeaton. The convent lies at the north side of the church surrounding a small cloister. One side of the square contains twelve small pointed arches, the other three sides consist of a series of windows each of five lights, the mullions of stone, and perfect. In the centre of the cloister is an old yew tree, but not so broad in the boughs as that of Mucross. This place is kept in admirable repair, all the breaches in walls, windows, in chimneys, etc., have been carefully filled up and renewed, and inter-

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 417

49. Franciscan Abbey founded at Adare

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1464

    The Franciscan Abbey within the Adare demesne was founded in 1464 by Thomas, Earl of Kildare, and his Countess Joan, who was buried in it. It is described as a very fine ruin with cloisters nearly entire and Gothic windows bearing escutcheons of the English and Saltire crosses.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 417

50. Garrison of 1000 soldiers recommended for Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1540

    The Lord Deputy and Council wrote to Henry VIII recommending garrisons be formed in several Irish cities, including a force of 1000 soldiers for Limerick, comprising horsemen, gunners, archers, and billmen. The letter also discussed the difficulty of totally extirpating the Irish given their endurance of hunger, cold, and thirst.

    Read the passage

    " But to enterprise the hole extirpation and totall destruction of all the Irishmen of the lande, it wold be a marvailous sumptions charge, and great difficultie ; considering both the lacke of inhabitors, and the great hardness and mysery these Irishmen can endure, both of hongre, colde, thurst, and evill lodging, more then thinhabitantes of any other lande. And by president of the conquest of this lande, we have not hard or redde in any cronycle, that at such conquests the hole inhabitantes of the lande have bene utterly extirped and bannisshed. Wherefore we think the easiest Avay and least charge were, to take such as have not heynously offended to a reasonable submission, and to prosecute the principalles with all rygor and extremytie." It is recommended in another of these state papers that garrisons should be formed in several cities. That at Limerick 1000 soldiers whereof horseman 300, gunners 200, archers 400, andbdlmen 100, should be raised. This letter is dated from Dublin, 18th January, 31st year of the king's " most victorious reigne."

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 52

51. Garryowen brewery of Johnny O'Connell

    near Garryowen · population centre · Limerick

    One of three breweries remaining in Limerick by 1865 was the old established one at Garryowen, owned by John O'Connell, celebrated in song, and by then belonging to a lady of his family.

    Read the passage

    The principal deficiency arises from tobacco and sugar, owing, in some respects, to non-consumption, in other respects, to the introduction by railway of some of those articles duty paid. There are symptoms, indeed, of a revival. F'actories are s})ringing up in the city, in addition to those of which the Messrs. J. M. liussell and Sons are proprietors, and to which we have referred in a previous chapter. Alderman Peter Tait, of Limerick, an energetic and enterprising citizen, has given an impetus to the industrial movement, not only by his indefatigable exertions in reference to flax manufacture, but by his employment of some hundreds of persons at his great army clothing establishment — the first and most important of the kind in these kingdoms — and one in which Limerick has reason to experience the utmost pride. Milling is largely carried on, manufacturing all the homegrown and large quantities of foreign wheat. Wool-combing and papermaking, have well nigh altogether disappeared In 1800 there were twenty tanneries, and but one pawnbroker's office in Limerick. In 1865, there are at least twenty pawnbroker's offices, and only two tanneries. In 1841, the number of breweries w^as four. In 1865, there are three — one, the old established one at Garryowen, of which "Johnny Conuell",' celebrated in song, was the owner, and which now belongs to a lady of his family; the second, that of Messrs. Fitts, at the Newgate Lane;^ the third, that of Messrs. Stein, in Clare Street. In brogue-making, which had been an important branch of trade, there has been a great decline. Other branches of trade have died out altogether, such as cloth-finishers, wool-staplers, woollen- weavers, etc. The manufacture of gloves, for which Limerick was famous a century ago, and which owed its superiority to a secret which was said to be in the exclusive possession of a glover named Lyons and his family, has declined also. Lyons frequent iv got orders for his gloves from the Court of Russia and other European courts. Mr. Tait endeavoured to revive the manufacture, but was not successful. The proverbial celebrity which the fishing hooks of Limerick have won, is nearly gone' — every fishing hook was said to be worth a salmon ; their form, lightness, and temper covild not be imitated. Limerick lace, which has Avon a world-wide reputation, does not quite retain its old place : yet Spanish donnas have had their mantillas made in Limerick, while magnificent robes fashioned of it, have won the patronage of royalty.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 305

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up near Garryowen, in Limerick. By 1865, only three breweries were left in the city, down from four in 1841. One of the three was the old established brewery here at Garryowen. Its owner was Johnny O'Connell, a man celebrated in song. By 1865 the brewery belonged to a lady of his family. The other two breweries still operating were that of Messrs Fitts at Newgate Lane, and that of Messrs Stein in Clare Street. The passage that records this gives a wider picture of trade in Limerick at the time. Factories were springing up in the city. Alderman Peter Tait, described as an energetic and enterprising citizen, had given impetus to industry through flax manufacture and through his army clothing establishment, where he employed some hundreds of persons. It was called the first and most important of its kind in these kingdoms. Milling was largely carried on, working all the home grown and large quantities of foreign wheat. Wool-combing and papermaking had well nigh altogether disappeared. In 1800 there had been twenty tanneries and but one pawnbroker's office. By 1865 there were at least twenty pawnbroker's offices and only two tanneries. Brogue-making had seen great decline. Other branches had died out altogether, such as cloth-finishers, wool-staplers, and woollen weavers. The glove manufacture, for which Limerick was famous a century ago and which owed its superiority to a secret in the exclusive possession of a glover named Lyons and his family, had declined also. Lyons had frequently got orders for his gloves from the Court of Russia and other European courts. Mr Tait had endeavoured to revive the manufacture, but was not successful. The fishing hooks of Limerick, proverbial for their celebrity, were nearly gone. Every fishing hook was said to be worth a salmon. Limerick lace, with a worldwide reputation, did not quite retain its old place. Spanish donnas had their mantillas made in Limerick, and magnificent robes fashioned of it won the patronage of royalty.

52. General Duff departs Limerick, Morrison assumes command

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    On Sunday, the 27th of May, Major-General Duff marched out of Limerick, leaving Major-General Edward Morrison in command of the city. This shift in military leadership preceded the arrest of Mr. Arthur two days later.

    Read the passage

    On Saturday the 2Cth of May, Captain Lidwell, who was superintending the flogging of some wretched being at the Market-house in Limerick, turned to the crowd that was collected on the occasion, and proclaimed a reward from one hundred to two hundred guineas, for any person who could inform against the late artillery corps. He then desired a Mr. John Connell to search for arms, adding that some of that (the artillery) corps had advised the inhabitants to secrete them. So direct an imputation on the artillery corps must have expounded Lieutenant-Colonel Cockell'a meaning, and have operated as a decisive hint for Mr. Arthur to flee the country had he been conscious of guilt ; as it was he regarded it as a shallow artifice to induce him to quit the city and avoid the disgrace of being arrested, when his retreat would have been called an attempt to abscond, and furnished a pretext for the plunder of his property. He treated the matter with contempt, little dreaming that his life would be imperilled. On the follomng Sunday, the 27th of May, Major-General Duff marched out of Limerick, and Major-General Edward Morrisson remained in command. On Tuesday, the 29th of May, while Mr. Arthur was at breakfast with his famil}', the Recorder, Mr. George Smyth, entered his house, and expressed a desire to speak to him in another room. No sooner had they withdrawn than the Recorder informed Mr. Arthur that he was arrested then and there, by order of Major-General Morrison. The Recorder produced no warrant; nor could Morrison issue any such order, Martial Law not ha^^ng been proclaimed at the time, nor had any information been laid or examination taken. The Kecorder demanded Mr. Arthur's keys which were delivered up. The Recorder called Jlrs. Arthur into the room and compelled her also to deliver up her keys to him. The Recorder immediately told Mrs. Arthur to quit her town house, for it would be forthwith occupied by soldiers. She remonstrated— but in vain — she and her children rotrented to the house of her father. The Secorder then scut lor Mr. Francis Lloyd, one of the slieiiifa of the city, into whose custody he

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 229

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick now. On Saturday the 26th of May, Captain Lidwell was at the Market-house here, superintending the flogging of some wretched being. He turned to the crowd and proclaimed a reward, from one hundred to two hundred guineas, for any person who could inform against the late artillery corps. He told a Mr. John Connell to search for arms, adding that some of that corps had advised the inhabitants to secrete them. Mr. Arthur regarded this as a shallow artifice to induce him to quit the city and avoid the disgrace of being arrested, when his retreat would be called an attempt to abscond and furnish a pretext for the plunder of his property. He treated the matter with contempt, little dreaming that his life would be imperilled. On Sunday the 27th of May, Major-General Duff marched out of Limerick, and Major-General Edward Morrison remained in command. On Tuesday the 29th of May, while Mr. Arthur was at breakfast with his family, the Recorder, Mr. George Smyth, entered his house and asked to speak to him in another room. No sooner had they withdrawn than the Recorder informed Mr. Arthur he was arrested, by order of Major-General Morrison. The Recorder produced no warrant. Morrison could not issue any such order. Martial Law had not been proclaimed, and no information had been laid or examination taken. The Recorder demanded Mr. Arthur's keys, which were delivered up. He called Mrs. Arthur into the room and compelled her also to hand over her keys. He told her to quit her town house, for it would be forthwith occupied by soldiers. She remonstrated, but in vain. She and her children retreated to the house of her father. The Recorder then sent for Mr. Francis Lloyd, one of the sheriffs of the city, into whose custody he gave Mr. Arthur.

53. Grant of Mungaret town and burgage to St. Mary's Church, Limerick

    Mungret · town · Limerick

    A deed recorded in the Black Book shows that Robert, Bishop of Limerick, granted the town and burgage of Mungaret to the Church of St. Mary's, Limerick, by advice and consent of the chapter, under a yearly rent of twelve marks of silver and five pounds of wax. The grant bears no date and the copy is hardly legible from age.

    Read the passage

    We find, in page 1 and 2 of the Black Book, the copy of a deed, by which Robert, Bishop of Limerick, granted, by the advice and consent of the chapter, the town and burgage of Mungaret, under a yearly rent of twelve marks of silver and five pounds of wax, to the Church of St. Mary's, Limerick.

    The grant bears no date, and the copy is hardly legible from age, and follows the memorandum of William Creagh, Bishop of Limerick, by which he notices that he received the lands of Donoughmore, which were not in the possession of his predecessor. I do not find this Robert's name among the Bishops of Limerick (for I hardly believe him to be Robert of Emly), if he be not Robert of Dondonill. [_Not<i by Dr. Young, in White's MSS-}

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 320

54. Great fire at St. Francis's Abbey on St. John's night 1636

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1636

    On 23 June 1636, St. John the Baptist's day, all of Sexten's tenements in St. Francis's Abbey were wholly burned between two p.m. and daylight, except for the house wherein Robert Coyne lived. The annalist noted he had never heard of any part of Limerick being burned on St. John's night before.

    Read the passage

    On the 3rd of March, 1636, Edmond Sexten, son of the celebrated Edmond Sexten, died ; his funeral was solemnized for two days and two nights, and he was buried in the ancestral tomb in St. Mary's church, on Sunday the 5th, with " all the solemnitie the cittie and the countie made and could afforde".^ On the 23rd of June in the same year, being midsummer, St. John the Baptists', and all Sexten's tenements in St. Francis's Abbey, were wholly burned between the hours of two p.m., and day light, with the exception of " the house wherein Robert Coyne lyved".* The annalist adds that he " never heard before that any pt. of Limik. was ever burnt (to man's memorie) on the lyke night of St. John's". At the time of the confederation the Abbey church was in the possesion of the Franciscan Fathers, and again in the reign of James II. On the 3rd of October, 1687, the Franciscan Fathers once more took possession of their old church, which was consecrated by the Right Rev. Dr. Maloney, and which they rented on this occasion from Lieutenant Pery.

    ' These documents are extracted from Sexten's book in tlie British Museum.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 376

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are moving through the ground of an old Franciscan abbey where a great fire once raged. In March 1636, Edmond Sexten, son of the celebrated Edmond Sexten, died. His funeral lasted two days and two nights, and he was buried in the ancestral tomb in St. Mary's church on Sunday the 5th, with, as the record says, all the solemnitie the cittie and the countie made and could afforde. Then on the 23rd of June that same year, midsummer, St. John the Baptist's day, all Sexten's tenements in St. Francis's Abbey were wholly burned between two p.m. and daylight. One house survived, the house wherein Robert Coyne lyved. The annalist wrote that he never heard before that any part of Limerick was ever burnt, to man's memory, on the like night of St. John. The abbey church later returned to the Franciscan Fathers during the confederation, and again under James the Second. On the 3rd of October 1687 they took possession once more, consecrated by the Right Reverend Doctor Maloney, renting it from Lieutenant Pery.

55. Grey Friars' sacred vessels dispersed to Limerick merchants

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Following the dissolution, silver chalices, brass candlesticks, books, and vestments from the Grey Friars (Franciscan friary) of Limerick were distributed among local merchants and householders including David Michell, John Skeolan, Humphrey Sexten, and George Sexten, some held in pledge.

    Read the passage

    Item, wee finde that John Comyns house in the Key lane, do beare yearly to the house of Keilmanani, twoe shillings of yeaily rent and noe most. Item, wee finde that Patrick Fanning's house lynge in Creagh lane, doe bearre to the house of Keilmanam twelf pence of yearly rent. And of Patrick Lange's house, next unto the same of yearly rent twelf pence, and a gardine lyeing by the spitle twelf pence of yearly rent. Item, wee doe find that in the 30th yeare of King Henry the Eighth, Edmond, Archbishop of Cassell, and Walter Cowley, the king's solicitor taking uppon them to be the king's commissioners, did take of the image of the holly roods, shoes of silver, wheing twentie seaven unces troy weight wherein weare divers stones the value whereof wee cannot tell. And alsoe did take the image of our Ladj-e of the said church showes of silver weighing six unces with divers stones, and lifteene buthons of silver, valued at three shilling, 9d. str. And neyne crosses of silver, valued at neyne shillings. And a peare of beades of silver, weighing six unces. Item, the said commissioners did take of the black fryers of Lymerick the day and yeare above said Sanict Sunday, his showes of silver weighing tenn unces, with divers stones, the value whereof wee cannot tell. And 4 stones of cristall bound with silver to our estimation weighing 2 unces. And foure score pound of wax as wee doe think rather more than less, being in the said chappele then. And iron being in the said chappell to the sum of twentie stones, And above. Item, the 22nd day of Januarii, in the 32 yeare of our sovereigns Lord King Henry the Eighth, Mr. Eobert Saintlager did take both the greate bell and the small bell out of the same place. Item, we find that David Michell of Lymerick, marchant, have a challice of silver, of the grey fryars in his keeping, delivered unto him, by one John O'Linge, at that tyme fryer of the said house, which challice was delivered to Humphrey Sexten. Item, wee find that John Skeolan of Lymerick, merchant, have two candlesticks of brass, of the said abbey in gage they doe say. Item, wee find that John M'Skyddiy of Lymerick, taylor, have a booke of the said fryars in gage for eight pence. Item, wee find that Stephen Crevagh, hath certain glasses of the said fryars which he hath delivered to Humphray Sexten. Item, George Sexten hath a vestment of chamlet red with a cross of velvet thereon. Item, John P.j'ce hath a vestment of Ameistock of the said fryers. Item, Humphrey Sexten have received of Leonard Crevagh, one challice of silver of the grey fryers. Item, wee finde that Stephen Harrold have a gardine of the said fryers by lease for years, paying therefor yearly sixteene pounds which is within the churchyard of the said fryers. Item, Steephen Crevagh hath a particle of the same churchyard, and in lease for yeares paying therefor, yearlj', sixpence. And Christopher Crevagh hath the rest of the said churchyard by lease for years, paying yearly therefor, 2s. 8d. Item, Steephen Crevagh hath a garden of the said fryers, within the moore of the said fryers by lease, paying yearly therefor, 2s. Item, James Harrold hath a garden of the said fryers, by lease, paying therefor, yearly, 3s. 4d. Item, John Nagle hath a gardine within the precincts of the said freeres, by lease paying therefor, yearly, 3s. 4d. Item, John Nagle hath a little medowe of the said freeres, paying therefor, yearly, 3s. Item, more wee find that John Skoylane hath another gardine in the said moore, by lease, paying therefor, yearly, 23. Item, Nicholas Stretch hath a gardine by the little Hand by lease, paying yearly therefor, 8s. sterling. Item, Andrew Harrold hath a gardine in the said moore by lease, paying yearly therefor, 2. 4d. James Fox hath a garden hy lease and within the precincts of the freeres church, paying yearly therefor 8s. Item, Leonard Creagh hath another gardine payeing yearly therefor Is. Item, Dominick Comyn hath one stone house of the said freeres, named the fish house, by lease, paying therefor yearly sixteen pence. Item, John Nagle hath one other gardine within the said precinct by lease, payeing therefor j'earlie IGd. Item, John Stretch Fitzgeorge hath one other gardine by lease without the moore, paying yearly therefor 2s, More, the said John hath one house which did appertayne to the said freeres, by lease, payinge therefor 2s. Item, Christopher Crevagh hath one tenement or voj-de place by lease, payeing therefor yearley 4s. and another voyde place, payeing therefore yearly 8s. 4d. Item, wee fjTid that there are tenn acres of land in Luithagh, more the two parts of the teythe of the same in Theobot Boorke's country, and three acres in Brarnblock and twoe parts of the teythe of the same, and twoe acres in the great croft and the twoe parts of the teythe of the same, and tenn acres in Claishcuigilly with the 2 partes of the same, whych lands and teythes appertayne to the same freeres. Item, wee fynd that the church of ScaintePeter and the churchyarde of the same is a chappell in Keilrone,inO'Bryens countrye,and all lands and tenements within the cittie of Lymerick, appertayning to the saide Sainct Peters hereafter followe. Item, wee find that Christopher Harrold hath one gardine and orchard by lease for certaine yeares paying therefor yearly 2s. And one house by lease which lease doth mansion that all rent thereof is payed before hand. Item, Elian Whyte widdowe hath one orcharde by lease payeing therefor yearly, 2s. And Elinor Arthur widdowe hath one gardine and one house

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 55

56. Henry V charter to citizens of Limerick, 1414

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1414

    Henry V granted a charter to the citizens of Limerick confirming liberties extended by King John, including that no citizen should be impleaded outside the city walls and that they should be quit of murder within the city's metes.

    Read the passage

    In this prmce's reign the Franciscan Abbey of Quin, m the county Clare, was completed by SiodaCam Maccomnara, prince of Glancnilen. June 11th, 1400, Gerald, the fifth Earl of Kildare, Patrick Fox and Walter Fitzgerald, were appointed Ciistodes Pads et Supervisor es Custodium pacts in comitatu Limericensi.'^ Thomas Fitzgerald, son of the Earl of Kildare, was High Sheriff of Lunerick county. 3 On the 20th of January, 1414, Henry V. granted a charter to the citizens of Limerick, m which he coniu-med the liberties already extended by his grandfather, Kmg John, and granted " that no citizen of Lmierick shall be impleaded outside the walls of the same city of any plea, except of pleas of outer tenements, which do not pertain to the Hundred of the aforesaid city. And that they may be quit of mm-der withm the metes of the city, and that no citizen shall make duel in the same city of any appeal, which any one against him can make, but he shall purge liimseK by the oath of forty men of the same city, who shall be lawful. And that

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 39

57. House of Commons committee on Limerick Corporation taxation

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    On 23 May, the House of Commons appointed a 28-member committee to consider petitions from Limerick citizens complaining of Corporation taxation and misapplication of funds. This continued an ongoing conflict between the citizens and the corporation, following an earlier committee that had tried Mr. Rice's petition.

    Read the passage

    The war between the citizens and the corporation continued. On the 23rd of May, the House of Commons appointed the following 28 members to form a committee to take into consideration the petitions of the citizens of Limerick, complaining of the Corporation taxation, and the misapphcation thereof : Mr. T. llice, Mr. Goulburne, Sir John Newport, Mr. Dawson, Mr. Abercrombie, Mr. Edward Wodehouse, Mr.Beecher,Mr. ButlerClarke, Mr. Buxton, Sir Nicholas Colthurst, Mr. Evans, Mr. Eitzgibbon, Mr. O'Grady, Mr. Grattan, Mr. John Smyth, Mr. Wellesley, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Eorde, Dr. Philimore, Mr. Geo. Lamb, Sir Lowry Cole, Mr. Paris, Mr. Eumbold, Mr. White, Mr. Thomas Ellis, SirEobert Shaw, Mr. Leonard, and Sir Arthur Chichester. Five of these gentlemen, viz. Mr. Wodehouse, Sir Lowry Cole, Mr. Paris, Mr. Dawson, and Mr. Buxton, were members of the first committee who tried Mr. Rice's petition, when the opinions of the entire, except Mr. Daly,

    ' This excellent lady would not allow her name to be made known.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 259

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city was the setting for a long conflict between its citizens and the corporation. The war between them had continued. On 23 May, the House of Commons appointed 28 members to form a committee to take into consideration the petitions of the citizens, who complained of Corporation taxation and the misapplication thereof. Among the members were Rice, Goulburne, Sir John Newport, Dawson, Abercrombie, Wodehouse, Beecher, Butler Clarke, Buxton, Sir Nicholas Colthurst, Evans, Fitzgibbon, O'Grady, Grattan, Wellesley, Kennedy, Ford, Lamb, White, and Sir Arthur Chichester. Five of these gentlemen had served on the first committee that tried Rice's petition. They were Wodehouse, Sir Lowry Cole, Paris, Dawson, and Buxton.

58. Insurrection Act sessions at Limerick and Rathkeale

    Rathkeale · town · Limerick · 1823

    In April and early May 1823, special sessions under the Insurrection Act were held at the County Court House of Limerick and at Rathkeale. One man was sentenced to seven years transportation at the former, and two men received the same punishment at the latter.

    Read the passage

    In April and early in May, special sessions under the insurrection Act were held at the County Court House of Limerick, and at Eathkeale, when one man was sentenced to seven years transportation at the former, and two men to the same measure of pimishment at the latter place. The Palatines had been about this time subjected to nightly attacks, their cattle slam or houghed, and their houses burned. The result was that many of them

    460 HISTORY OF LIMERICK.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 262

59. Joseph Anderson pilloried opposite the Exchange, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1798

    Joseph Anderson was pilloried opposite the Exchange in Limerick for prevarication in his evidence during the trial of Francis Arthur, who had been sentenced to transportation for life to Botany Bay and fined £5,000.

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    Mr. Joseph Anderson, prevarication in his evidence on Mr. Arthur's trial, pilloried opposite the Exchange.

    June 27th. — Thomas Kennedy (brother of Patrick Kennedy hanged on the 4th instant) convicted of taking arms, was removed to Down, under escort of the Koyal Limerick Cavalry, and hanged in pursuance of a sentence of a Court-martial.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 236

    As the companion tells it

    In 1798, in Limerick, Joseph Anderson was pilloried opposite the Exchange for prevarication in his evidence during the trial of Francis Arthur. Arthur had been sentenced to transportation for life to Botany Bay and fined five thousand pounds.

60. Killone nunnery's lands at Farranygallogh dissolved to Crown

    Killone · parish · Clare

    Half a ploughland called Farranygallogh, part of the Leper House's forty ploughlands, was held by the nunnery of Killone in County Clare. After the nunnery and its possessions came to the Crown, the land was granted by letters patent to the Baron of Insequine and by 1615 was held by the Earl of Thomond.

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    s This inquisition shows the grants of King John to the bishops of Limerick ; the grants of Queen Elizabeth of St. Mary's Priory and its lands at 4d. per acre, to Edmond Sexten, and also the lands of Monksland, Clasknagilly, Branlouge and Inshymore, to the said Edward Sexten ; the grants by letters patent of King Henry III. to the Leper House, near the city of Limerick, of forty ploughlands, one ploughland of which the said master of the said Leper Hospital* held when the inquisition was taken — that Gerald, Earl of Desmond held one ploughland in fee of the land called Corbally, parcel of the said forty ploughlands, that he was attainted of high treason, whereby the ploughland became seized by the Queen Elizabeth who granted the same by letters patent to Robert Annislie, one of the undertakers in the Co. of Limerick, for the yearly rent of forty shillings — that Corbally now (1615) is in the possession of Thomas Gould by conveyance and assignment of Annislie, and that no rent is paid out of it to the Ma3-or and commonality of Limerick. The inquisition found that Bealus, alias Courtbrack, was another of the fortj' ploughlands — that the Earl of Desmond held it in fee, that on his attainder it ivas granted by Queen Elizabeth to Robert Annislie at a rent of three pounds per annum ; and that it is now (1615) in possession of the Earl of Thomond, and paid no rent to the mayor &c. The inquisition further found that half a ploughland called Farranygallogh, parcel of the said forty ploughlands, was in the tenure and occupation of the nunnery of Killone, in the County of Clare, which together with the nunnery and its possessions came unto the cro^^Ti, and was by letters patent granted to the said Baron of Insequine, and is now (1615) in the possession of the Earl of Thomond for which no rent is paid to the mayor &c. The inquisition also found that two parts of two ploughlands in three parts divided in Ratwyrd, being parcel of the said forty ploughlands, came into Queen Elizabeth's hands by the attainder of John Browne, and were by the Queen granted to the said Robert Annislie, out of which £G rent is paid to the King, and that three other parcela of land — viz. Gorteardboher, containing ten acres, Gortrebowley, live acres, Rathgreylan, lifteea acres, with three parcels of land, are accounted for one ploughland, parcel of the said forty ploughlands, and are now in tenure and possession of Phillis White, Simon ffanning, and Edmond Burke of Ballasimon, for which they pay no rent to the mayor &c. The inquisition further finds that certain other such parcels of Gowens lying south near St. John's Gate, and the land of Martui Croft, and Clownegonderiske, containing a ploughland, being part of the forty ploughlands, are now in the tenure of the mayor and commonality of the city, and that the mayor and commonality are seized of the following parcels of land being part of the said forty ploughlands : viz. Park, containing ^ths of a ploughland in possession of Thomas Comyn, held by him from the

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni